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Category: Transport

  • MIL-Evening Report: Making it easier to build a granny flat makes sense – but it’s no solution to a housing crisis

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Welch, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    RyanJLane/Getty Images

    As part of its resource management reforms, the government will soon allow “super-sized granny flats” to be built without consent – potentially adding 13,000 dwellings over the next decade to provide “families with more housing options”.

    This represents genuine progress in reducing regulatory barriers. But the scale of the housing crisis means we have to ask whether incremental reforms can deliver meaningful change.

    The numbers provide important context. Against current consenting rates of 40,000 to 50,000 new dwellings per year, those projected 70-square-metre granny flats represent a 2.6% increase in housing supply.

    In Auckland, where housing pressure is most acute, 300 additional units might be built annually. For some, that’s likely to be useful. But for a country already facing a housing crunch, it’s insignificant.

    The costs of a granny flat

    The numbers also reveal who can participate in this proposed solution. Building a basic 70-square-metre granny flat will cost between NZ$200,000 and $300,000. Add site works, utility connections and mandatory licensed building practitioner supervision, and total project costs will be closer to the upper end of that range.

    At current interest rates, financing $250,000 requires approximately $480 weekly in loan payments. While rents of $500-$600 per week are achievable in urban markets, these thin margins assume optimal conditions.

    For property owners with existing equity, this presents a viable investment. For those seeking affordable housing – young families, essential workers, recent immigrants – the benefits remain largely theoretical.

    This dynamic illustrates a persistent challenge in market-based housing solutions: policies intended to improve affordability often primarily benefit those with capital to deploy.

    Pressure on the pipes

    Each granny flat requires full residential infrastructure – water, wastewater and stormwater connections. The development contributions – fees councils charge on new builds to fund infrastructure – will help fund network upgrades. But New Zealand already faces a $120-185 billion water infrastructure deficit over the next 30 years, just to fix existing systems.

    The challenge is particularly acute in established suburbs where these units are most likely to appear. Parts of Christchurch serviced by vacuum sewers already operate at capacity. Auckland’s combined sewer areas face overflow risks during heavy rainfall. Wellington’s ageing pipes struggle with current demand.

    Adding thousands of dispersed infill units to stressed networks poses genuine engineering challenges that funding alone cannot solve.

    Transport infrastructure faces similar pressures. With minimum parking requirements axed across the nation, these new granny flats will likely increase on-street parking demand and local traffic.

    While some granny flat residents may rely on public transport or active modes, New Zealand’s car ownership rates – 837 vehicles per 1,000 people – suggest most will own vehicles.

    Auckland’s sewer systems are already under pressure. New granny flats will add strain on the infrastructure.
    Janice Chen/Getty Images

    Approved but not always built

    International experience offers instructive parallels. California’s 2017 Accessory Dwelling Unit legislation provides the closest comparison. After removing similar regulatory barriers, California saw permits increase from 1,000 in 2016 to 13,000 in 2019.

    However, construction costs and infrastructure constraints limited actual completions to roughly 60% of approved units.

    Australian cities report similar patterns. Despite permissive regulations in many areas, only 13-23% of suitable properties actually added secondary dwellings. High construction costs and infrastructure limitations proved more binding than regulatory constraints.

    Closer to home, Auckland’s experience with minor dwellings under the Unitary Plan suggests cautious optimism. Since 2016, the city has averaged 300-400 secondary dwelling consents annually where permitted. The number of units actually constructed is unknown.

    Allowing one-storey detached 70-square-metre units without building consent may increase this modestly. But they are unlikely to dramatically accelerate production given persistent cost and capacity constraints.

    Another form of wealth transfer

    The policy’s benefits flow primarily to existing property owners. They will gain new development rights without competitive tender or public process. While perhaps justified by broader housing benefits, it’s worth acknowledging this is a form of wealth transfer.

    Granny flats typically add roughly their construction cost to property values, providing capital gains alongside rental income potential.

    For renters, benefits depend on how many units actually materialise and at what price point. Secondary units often rent at 20-30% below comparable standalone houses due to their size and backyard location.

    This could meaningfully expand options for singles and couples. But families requiring larger accommodation will see limited benefits.

    The policy’s design constraints also tell us what kind of urban density is acceptable. Single-storey height limits, two-metre boundary setbacks and standalone requirements essentially mandate the least efficient form of intensification.

    Units could share walls and services, and two-storey designs that use less land could be permitted. Instead, the granny flat exemption favours the one configuration that maintains suburban aesthetics while delivering minimal extra housing.

    A modest response to the housing crisis

    The granny flat exemption exemplifies New Zealand’s approach to housing challenges: acknowledging a crisis while implementing modest responses.

    Despite severe shortfalls in housing supply, the medium-density development common in comparable countries remains largely unrealised. An estimated 180,000 households could be accommodated through comprehensive densification.

    There are genuine benefits worth acknowledging, of course. The exemption reduces bureaucratic barriers, enables some additional housing and gives property owners new options.

    The question isn’t so much whether the new policy should be embraced. But rather whether the government is willing to complement it with larger changes the housing crisis demands.

    Timothy Welch 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. Making it easier to build a granny flat makes sense – but it’s no solution to a housing crisis – https://theconversation.com/making-it-easier-to-build-a-granny-flat-makes-sense-but-its-no-solution-to-a-housing-crisis-258185

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Deadly’ sports diplomacy: why Australia’s Indigenous people must be a part of our sports strategy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stuart Murray, Associate Professor, International Relations and Diplomacy, Bond University

    Sean Garnsworthy/ALLSPORT

    Since coming to power in 2022, the Albanese government has focused strongly on the Indo-Pacific.

    The prime minister’s recent trip to Indonesia was the latest high-level bilateral summit as Australia seeks to recalibrate relationships, enhance security and, where possible, win the battle for hearts and minds in the region.



    Read more:
    There’s no country more important to Australia than Indonesia. Trouble is, the feeling isn’t mutual

    In a world slipping further into “strategic atrophy,” art, music, food, culture, sport and other forms of soft power are no longer peripheral.

    In the foreword to the recently launched Australian Sports Diplomacy 2032+ strategy, for example, Labor MP Tim Watts stated:

    Sport is an important tool for Australia’s diplomatic engagement at a time when Australia needs to use every dimension of our national power to advance our interests.

    The First Nations of Australia are mentioned in this strategy but it fails to reflect the depth, power and influence Indigenous sports diplomats could bring.

    Arguably, our sports diplomacy would be more authentic, unique and effective (especially in the Pacific) if First Nations people, perspectives and programs were genuinely integrated from the outset – baked in, not bolted on.

    The epic history of First Nations sport

    Indigenous Australians were the first people to play sport on this land.

    Before colonisation, Australia’s population was around 750,000, divided into about 500 nations.

    Though sometimes hostile, these communities shared a common language: sport.

    Physical pursuits served, and still serve, many purposes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: fostering communication, preserving lore, teaching youth to be effective providers and most importantly, practising survival skills.

    Sport was also a civilising force used for social, cultural and diplomatic ends. Games and carnivals increased contact between clans, easing tension, division, xenophobia and misunderstandings that could spark violence.

    Battendi (spear-throwing), Marngrook (football), Koolchee (ball games), and Prun (mock war) are examples of diplomatic games that predate the ancient Greek Olympics by tens of thousands of years.

    Sport became central to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, identity and diplomacy.

    “Deadly” – a term meaning excellent – sports diplomacy is a more fitting way to describe this unique form of diplomacy. Done well, it offers a more accurate, authentic brand of Australia to the region and beyond.

    The battle for the Blue Pacific

    The “Blue Pacific” – a term describing a shared Pacific culture, identity and collective diplomatic strategy – offers an opportunity to harness the power of deadly sports diplomacy.

    If Australia hopes to win Pacific hearts and minds, it should send more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sports diplomats and teams to countries such as Fiji, Papua New Guinea (PNG) and New Zealand, because the nations of the Blue Pacific deeply respect the old, wise First Peoples of Australia.

    These relationships are built on shared values: culture, family, spirituality and sport.

    The Black Swans – Australia’s First Nations netball team, which debuted at the PacificAus Sports netball series in 2024 – are included as a case study in Sports Diplomacy 2032+. However, it’s the government’s A$600 million NRL project in PNG that has dominated headlines.



    Read more:
    Sports diplomacy: why the Australian government is spending $600 million on a new NRL team in PNG

    The Albanese government’s backing of this initiative has sparked criticism among supporters of other codes in Australia with strong ties to Pacific nations – especially rugby union, which until recently was the code of choice in Fiji and throughout Polynesia.

    A rise in Pacific Island interest in rugby league may impact rugby union, some argue.

    However, rugby league may be a more effective sports diplomacy tool. It enjoys growing popularity in those locations and has undisputed national sport status in PNG, the most populous Pacific nation by far.

    It’s also arguably more “deadly,” with its Indigenous All Stars team and an Indigenous Round.

    In the NRL, 48% of players have Pasifika heritage, and 12% identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, compared to 3% across the Australian population.

    Should rugby union receive similar support? Perhaps, but first, it must address the absence of Indigenous players.

    Since Rugby Australia’s founding in 1949, only 15 Aboriginal men have played Test rugby for Australia.

    What about similar funding for soccer, the national obsession of strategically important near neighbours Solomon Islands and Vanuatu?

    It too has had a relative absence of Indigenous players at Australia’s highest levels, notwithstanding the pioneering careers of Charlie Perkins, John Moriarty, Archie Thompson and recent Matildas Lydia Williams and Mackenzie Arnold.

    Extra time

    Integrating the world’s oldest living culture in Australia’s sports diplomacy program can only enhance our relationships, diplomacy and national brand.

    The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS)’s Share a Yarn initiative is helping lead the way.

    Established in 2020, it connects elite First Nations athletes with respected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentors.

    Throughout the year, athletes and mentors meet online, attend monthly storytelling sessions and attend an annual cultural connection camp at the AIS campus.

    As Marissa Williamson Pohlman, the first Aboriginal woman to compete in boxing at the Olympics in 2024, noted:

    Mainstream sport can be challenging but having the unwavering support of mob keeps me grounded and focused on my goals.

    The fact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have practised sports diplomacy for more than 60,000 years is a powerful story. It is one that should be celebrated at every international sporting event we attend, bid for, or host.

    Including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, programs and perspectives would strengthen and innovate our strategies, add vital cultural iconography, inspire like-minded nations and help win hearts and minds from Honiara to Hawaii.

    The authors would like to thank Kombumerri woman Emily Pugin (DFAT) and Butchulla/Goreng Goreng Paul Martin for their contribution, teaching and help in commissioning and drafting the report that informs this article.

    Stuart Murray receives funding from The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

    Narelle Bedford 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. ‘Deadly’ sports diplomacy: why Australia’s Indigenous people must be a part of our sports strategy – https://theconversation.com/deadly-sports-diplomacy-why-australias-indigenous-people-must-be-a-part-of-our-sports-strategy-257542

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Hageman Insists BLM Listen to Cooperators as They Consider Amendments to the Rock Springs Resource Managment Plan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Hageman welcomed a Wednesday announcement confirming that cooperating agencies will have an opportunity to once again meet with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to discuss amendments to the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan (RMP).

    “The long-term economic harm of this RMP cannot be overstated.  The current Biden plan fundamentally conflicts with the decades-long work undertaken by the stakeholders as they developed a reasonable RMP that complies with FLPMA.  The previous administration, in its effort to elevate “conservation” over the statutory required multiple use policies, violated long-standing land use law.”  Hageman stated, “As BLMreturns to the drawing board, it is important that they protect our legacy industries and access for recreation.  FLPMA is clear in its mandate regarding what types of uses are allowed on these federal lands, and BLM need look no further than the law itself to carry out congressional intent.  I have every expectation that the current administration will fully engage with the local community and the cooperators and we will end up with a more robust RMP as a result.” 

    Congresswoman Hageman has engaged with the BLM since being elected and has urged them to select the alternative that protected our long history of multiple-use management, including energy production, mining, grazing and recreation.  Upon the BLM’s publication of the revised RMP in the fall of 2023, through which it chose the most restrictive alternative possible, Congresswoman Hageman has worked to block its implementation, including introducing a bill to do just that.  

    Background:  

    The Rock Springs RMP covers 3.6 million acres of BLM-administered surface estate and 3.7 million acres of mineral estate in portions of southwest Wyoming.  

    Of the four alternatives analyzed during the planning process, the BLM selected the most restrictive and least studied of them all.    

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Hickenlooper Slams Trump Administration Policies Threatening Colorado Small Businesses, Public Lands, Rural Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper made stops in Denver, Estes Park, and Evans last week to call out Trump administration attacks on Colorado’s public lands, small businesses, and rural health care. 

    On Tuesday, Hickenlooper held a press conference with Colorado business owners at Four Noses Brewing Company to highlight how the Trump administration’s erratic tariff policies are harming local businesses. 

    “Tariffs cramp businesses and provide a level of uncertainty that is almost untenable and ends up meaning that people can’t make the investments in their business to grow,” said Hickenlooper. “…I think we are perilously close to sliding into a recession or maybe even worse, stagflation.” 

    Then on Wednesday, Hickenlooper joined Congressman Joe Neguse, public lands advocates, and local elected officials to call out the Trump administration’s threats to Colorado’s national parks and public lands – including Rocky Mountain National Park. 

    Watch the recap HickTok HERE

    “Our lands are under siege… But we fight, we’re beaten, we rise and fight again,” Hickenlooper said at the press conference. 

    He highlighted the damage caused by the DOGE layoffs at the Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service, and warned that proposed budget cuts could hamstring wildland firefighting efforts. He also criticized the Trump administration proposals to sell our public lands and emphasized the importance of continued collective action to fight back. 

    Afterwards, Hickenlooper visited Sunrise Community Health at the Monfort Family Clinic in Evans to highlight the dangerous cuts to Medicaid proposed in the House-passed Republican budget. Cuts of more than $700 billion from Medicaid and Affordable Care Act coverage would strip health care from 16 million Americans.

    Check out the event coverage below. 

    WATCH: CBS Denver: Hickenlooper Tours 4 Noses Brewing Company to Highlight Tariffs

    WATCH: ABC Denver 7: Senator Hickenlooper Highlights Tariffs at 4 Noses Brewery 

    WATCH: Fox 31 Denver: Hickenlooper Talks About Tariffs with Area Business Owners

    Colorado Public Radio: Hickenlooper Highlights Trump’s Erratic Trade War

    Colorado Newsline: Colorado businesses struggle amid uncertainty of fluctuating Trump tariffs (Company leaders tell Sen. Hickenlooper they seek stability)

    Colorado small businesses from various sectors have made changes to their operations and even lost customers as a result of uncertainty around Trump administration tariffs. 

    …Hickenlooper said people well versed in economics tell him that “tariffs have never worked” except in specific situations. He said all tariffs do is create “a level of uncertainty that is almost untenable” and prevents businesses from growing and maintaining supply chain relationships. 

    “All these tariffs, in one way or another, they’re not bringing manufacturing back to this country,” Hickenlooper said. “What they’re doing is putting an unbearable burden on small businesses like we see here.”

    Colorado Times Recorder: Hickenlooper Meets With Small Business Owners Who Face Tariff Uncertainty

    Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO) met with small business owners from across Colorado today, all of whom emphasized that the uncertainty of federal tariff policy has caused market chaos.

    …“The fact that we have tariffs at a time when most of the people I know who really understand economics believe that tariffs have never worked except in very surgical situations in the past,” Hickenlooper said. “Tariffs [as they are being implemented] provide a level of uncertainty that is almost untenable and ends up with people being unable to make the investments they need to make for their business to grow. We’ve seen that over the past couple of months. We are perilously close to sliding into a recession or… even stagflation.” 

    Colorado Public Radio: Hickenlooper highlights the tariff pain inflicted on Colorado companies

    President Donald Trump’s erratic tariff policy is whipsawing Colorado’s entrepreneurs.

    “Predictability matters,” Sen. John Hickenlooper said Tuesday during a press conference with business owners at 4 Noses Brewing Company in Denver. “Being able to count on your relationships with your supply chain, your wholesalers, your retailers, to build a business. Those are the essential characteristics and we’re losing that literally in the blink of an eye.”

    No corner of the state’s business ecosystem is untouched by President Trump’s on-again-off-again approach to levying tariffs. Hickenlooper was joined by representatives from a diverse set of Colorado companies, including a pet food manufacturer, a craft brewery, an environmental equipment manufacturer and a machine part manufacturer.

    Axios Denver: Colorado breweries fret about tariffs amid trade war

    …Driving the news: U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper, a former Wynkoop Brewing owner, is raising awareness about the tariffs’ potential to hike the price of ingredients, equipment and packaging.

    “Tariffs cramp businesses and provide a level of uncertainty that is almost untenable,” Hickenlooper said during a visit earlier this week to Denver’s 4 Noses Brewing, where he sipped a beer fresh from the canning line and listened to local business owners talk about how the tariffs are hurting their businesses.

    WATCH: MSNBC: Long lines, dirty bathrooms, overflowing trash – Trump cuts leave national parks in crisis

    WATCH: Denver 7: Hickenlooper hosts press conference in Estes Park

    Estes Park Trail Gazette: Sen. John Hickenlooper from Lake Estes: ‘Our lands are under siege’

    …With the Rocky Mountains serving as his backdrop, Hickenlooper encouraged backers to take to social media and create a groundswell of support for his bill aimed at establishing a deficit-neutral reserve fund relating to preventing the use of proceeds from public land sales, and to reduce the federal deficit, according to the bill. 

    “What we need to do is use social media like we’ve never used it before. We need to make sure our networks of people, tell their networks of people, what this really means, what this could do when you cripple an outdoor recreation economy that is actually paying for the maintenance, the preservation, and the access to these incredible public lands,” Hickenlooper said. 

    “Our lands are under siege, between what DOGE has done, the firings, if you add the people at the Forest Service, the National Parks, basically the Department of the Interior, all the different components that it takes to run our parks. That’s 6,000 people that have either been fired or pushed out of their jobs,” Hickenlooper said. 

    “We’re being attacked in every direction, especially in climate change. But we fight, we’re beaten, we rise and fight again.” 

    Colorado Newsline: Public lands advocates fear for Colorado’s national parks under Trump budget proposals

    After the 2013 Colorado floods devastated communities surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park, locals worked tirelessly to get their businesses back up and running in time for the peak fall season. 

    The federal government shut down for about two weeks shortly after the flood, but U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat who was governor at the time, said Colorado agreed to pay the salaries for every employee in Rocky Mountain National Park so the park could still be open to visitors.

    “That’s the way the state government, the federal government used to work together around public lands, and I think it’s worth revisiting that it was a team effort, that everyone was on the same page,” Hickenlooper said. “The businesses desperately needed that retail period to be open to maximize the largest influx of visitors’ to Estes Park, and we got it.”

    That spirit of cooperation is a far cry from the threatened cuts to National Park Service staff and funding under President Donald Trump’s administration, Hickenlooper and other public lands advocates said in Estes Park Wednesday. Hickenlooper and U.S. House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse, a Lafayette Democrat, called on Congress and Trump to reverse the cuts and maintain protections for the country’s public lands.

    …Hickenlooper said over 6,000 people who work to take care of national parks and national forests across different agencies have either been fired or left their jobs. 

    “We’re going to see more risk this summer and this spring from wildfires, from extreme weather,” Hickenlooper said. “We’re going to see more risks than we’ve seen before in all … aspects of the droughts we’ve had and the water we have to use, at a time when we’re dramatically diminishing the number of firefighters we’re going to have available to fight fires in the West.”

    Outside Magazine: John Hickenlooper: The Fight Over America’s Public Lands Has Become “All Out War”

    On Wednesday, May 28, Colorado Senator John Hickenlooper stood alongside state congressman John Neguse near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The two lawmakers spoke about the ongoing fight to protect public lands and the federal agencies that oversee them.

    Greeley Tribune: Sen. Hickenlooper visits Sunrise Community Health to discuss Medicaid cuts 

    If lawmakers in the U.S. Senate vote to pass new Medicaid requirements recently approved by the House, Sunrise Community Health CEO Mitzi Moran estimates about a quarter of patients in the nonprofit health care system could lose coverage.

    “Seven thousand to 14,000 of our patients could fall off Medicaid as a result of these changes,” Moran told U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper on Wednesday. “That’s disastrous for them. While they could still come to us because we offer a sliding fee scale, what happens if they have a hospital visit or if they need to see a specialist?”

    Hickenlooper visited the Monfort Family Clinic in Evans on Wednesday to discuss the potential cuts with staff and local members of the health care community.

    …Though patients would still be able to utilize that sliding pay scale even without Medicaid, Hickenlooper and Moran expressed concerns about how these cuts would still jeopardize the clinic. If Sunrise receives less pay for the care it provides, Moran said it would need to become a very different organization to remain operational.

    …Current estimates from the Congressional Budget Office indicate the changes to Medicaid would result in 8.6 million Americans losing coverage, including more than 1 million in Colorado.

    “I can’t believe our House members pushed this budget,” Hickenlooper said.“There are four Republican House members from Colorado, and I know they’ve received calls about Medicaid. If all four of our guys voted together, they could’ve stopped it.”

    Hickenlooper believes his tour of the Monfort clinic and discussions about the bill’s impacts will help in his fight to stop the bill from being passed in the Senate. However, he is unsure whether it will be sufficient to convince enough senators to push back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Bill to Repeal the Gun Industry’s Legal Liability

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) were joined today, during the first week of Gun Violence Awareness Month, by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and U.S. Representatives Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), and Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) in leading a group of 81 members of Congress in introducing the bicameral Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act, legislation to ensure that victims of gun violence have their day in court and that negligent gun companies and gun sellers are not shielded from liability when they disregard public safety. The bill would repeal the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), passed by Congress in 2005, which gives the gun industry a unique and unjustifiable legal liability shield that protects gun manufacturers from lawsuits.

    Murphy, Blumenthal, Swalwell, Schiff, Evans, and Thompson announced the legislation today during a virtual press conference joined by leading gun violence prevention advocates: Kris Brown, president of Brady; Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action; and Adam Skaggs, chief counsel and vice president of GIFFORDS Law Center. Video of the press conference is available here.

    “There’s absolutely no reason why the gun industry should get special treatment when it comes to negligence. Their immunity from lawsuits effectively gives them a license to kill. It’s past time for Congress to repeal PLCAA and allow gun violence victims their day in court,” said Murphy.

    “PLCAA is the ultimate sweetheart deal – legal immunity afforded to basically no other industry for a product that kills tens of thousands of Americans every year,” said Blumenthal. “Despite the strength and perseverance of the Sandy Hook, Uvalde, and Highland Park families – and the tenacity of their legal teams – this is a problem that cannot be solved only through the courts. PLCAA must be repealed by Congress.”

    “No industry in American has a liability shield like gun manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and importers,” said Swalwell. “The NRA and their GOP stooges made sure that the gun industry has a unique immunity from accountability. This bill ends that ridiculous carve out. The Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act will finally repeal the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) once and for all, allowing victims of gun violence to bring civil suits against gun producers and sellers. The time has long since come for Congress to be clear – if you put the most dangerous weapons in the hands of the most dangerous people, you will be held accountable.”

    “More than a 100 Americans are killed by a gun every single day in America. And yet, Congress does nothing to hold the gun industry accountable when the negligence of gun makers and dealers is responsible for the tragic consequences their products have on our kids, our families, and our communities. As long as gun violence continues to take the lives of so many in California and across the nation, I will fight to repeal the liability shield that wrongly protects negligent gun industry actors from liability,” said Schiff.

    “Victims and survivors should be able to hold the gun industry accountable in court for negligent behavior. But right now, the gun industry is shielded from any liability when they disregard public safety. That’s wrong,” said Crow. “I’m introducing this bill so we can finally hold the gun industry responsible.”

    “As someone who’s advocated for this concept in Pennsylvania’s legislature and now in Congress, I’m proud to be a co-lead on this bill to restore this basic right of victims and survivors – a right that a heavy-handed federal government took away 20 years ago. So many American gun deaths could be avoided if we held companies accountable for things like illegal sales, defective guns and irresponsible marketing. State attorneys general were able to hold Big Tobacco accountable in the 1990s, and they should be able to hold gun manufacturing companies accountable in the 21st century since thousands of lives depend on it. This legislation would be an important tool in the toolbox to protect our citizens from gun violence,” said Evans.

    “In the 20 years since PLCAA was passed, it’s become clear that negligent gun manufacturers and dealers have taken advantage of the law. Responsible manufacturers and dealers don’t need this legal protection – and irresponsible ones are hiding behind it. As a hunter, combat veteran and responsible gun owner, I’m proud to work with Senator Blumenthal and Representative Swalwell to introduce this sensible legislation,” said Thompson, Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.

    When Congress passed PLCAA, its supporters argued that it was necessary to protect the gun industry from frivolous lawsuits, and that victims of gun violence would not be shut out of the courts. In reality, numerous cases around the nation have been dismissed on the basis of PLCAA, even when the gun dealers and manufacturers acted in a fashion that would qualify as negligent if it involved any other product. Victims in these cases were denied the right to even discover or introduce evidence. This legislation allows civil cases to go forward against irresponsible bad actors.

    In 2005, the National Rifle Association (NRA) identified PLCAA as their “number one” legislative priority, and the NRA celebrated the passage calling it the “most significant piece of pro-gun legislation in twenty years.” Letting courts hear these cases would provide justice to victims and their families, while creating incentives for responsible business practices that would reduce injuries and deaths. Effectively, the gun industry would once again be subject to the same laws as every other industry, just as it was prior to 2005.

    The legislation is endorsed by Brady, GIFFORDS Law Center, Everytown for Gun Safety, March for Our Lives, Guns Down America, Newtown Action Alliance, and Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund.

    U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also cosponsored the bill.

    U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03), Gabe Amo (D-R.I.-01), Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.-04), Wesley Bell (D-Mo.-01), Don Beyer (D-Va.-08), Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.-01), Shontel Brown (D-Ohio-11), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), Sean Casten (D-Ill.-06), Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28), Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.-05), Danny Davis (D-Ill.-07), Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.-04), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.-01), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.-17), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Maxine Dexter (D-Ore.-03), Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas-07), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.-10), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Daniel Goldman (D-N.Y.-10), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.-34), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.-07), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.-04), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.-02), Timothy Kennedy (D-N.Y.-26), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.-08), Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.-08), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.-02), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.-04), LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.-10), Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.-25), Kelly Morrison (D-Minn.-03), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.-06), Joe Neguse (D-Colo.-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-AL), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.-05), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine-01), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.-05), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.-08), Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.-05), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.-09), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.-10), David Scott (D-Ga.-13), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.-12) and Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii-02) also cosponsored the bill in the House of Representatives.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Allen Announces 2025 Fall Internship Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA-12)

    Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) announced his office is seeking applicants for the 2025 Fall Internship Program, to be offered in his Washington, D.C. office.

    This program is open to college students and young professionals interested in learning about the legislative process and assisting with the responsibilities of a congressional office. Interns will perform a range of tasks including constituent outreach, legislative writing, and more, with the possibility of earning school credit. Fall internships will be offered from August to December 2025, with specific dates to be discussed during the interview process. All applications must be submitted via Congressman Allen’s website by Monday, July 7th, 2025. 

    Upon the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

    “Working in a congressional office provides a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience into how our government operates and network with individuals from all walks of life. In our office, we employ a bottom-up approach to empower others to be the best they can be. Many of our past interns have used the skills gained during their internships to transition into a variety of successful career paths. My staff and I look forward to welcoming these talented young professionals in the coming months.”

    Those interested in a fall internship can apply on Congressman Allen’s website. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Bringing ENT care closer to home in Northland

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A new mobile ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist clinic has been launched in Northland, bringing high-quality specialist care directly to local communities, Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey say.“This is a significant step toward improving access to care for people in rural and remote parts of Northland,” Health Minister Simeon Brown says.The initiative began in May with the first of several rural outreach clinics held in Kawakawa. Additional clinics are planned for Kaikohe and Rawene this month.“In just two days, the mobile clinic saw 53 patients – more than half of whom had been waiting over 10 months for an appointment, mostly for a first specialist assessment. Others were seen after spotting the clinic parked in their community.“These patients would otherwise have had to travel to Whangārei Hospital. That’s why initiatives like this make a real difference in improving timely access to care and delivering services closer to home.“They also support our focus on reducing wait times for first specialist assessments and elective surgeries by easing pressure on hospital waitlists.”Patients were assessed for a range of conditions, including hearing loss, grommet and tonsil concerns, chronic ear disease, nasal and sinus obstruction, and head and neck lumps.Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says the mobile clinic is a welcome development for the region.“Access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people living in rural and remote communities.“This mobile clinic is fully equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technology, providing a standard of care on par with what patients receive at Whangārei or Kaitaia hospitals – exactly what rural communities deserve.”The service supports procedures such as endoscopy, vertigo manoeuvres, treatment for otitis media, adult grommet insertions, and removal of foreign bodies from the ear, nose, or throat. It also enables outpatient bookings for ENT surgeries including adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, and mastoidectomy.“This initiative is a practical example of how we’re working to bring services closer to home and reduce long waits for specialist care.“Our focus is on ensuring all New Zealanders, regardless of where they live, can get the care they need without having to travel long distances or face lengthy delays,” Mr Doocey says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Southern Police warn motorists to take care on roads

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Southern Police are asking motorists to drive to the conditions and take extreme care today with black ice forming on Southland roads and snow incoming later throughout Otago.

    Police have already attended one black-ice related crash this morning and are aware of another.

    Thankfully no one has been injured but we want to ensure everyone gets to their destination safely.

    Drivers need to be aware of the potential for slippery road surfaces and to drive the conditions.

    ENDS
    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Talks Recruiting, AI, and Quantum Computing with Top Army Officials at SASC Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with the Honorable Daniel Driscoll, Secretary of the Army, and General Randy George, Chief of Staff of the Army, during a Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing. Sen. Tuberville spoke with the top Army officials about the quality of recruits in the Army, ways to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Quantum Computing in the military.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or on YouTube or Rumble.
    ON RECRUITING REQUIREMENTS IN THE ARMY:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Good morning, gentlemen. Congratulations on your recruiting.
    I know how hard that is in my former profession, getting the right people. General, are we keeping our qualifications, discipline, values, and physical requirements when we recruit these people?”
    GEORGE: “I think we definitely are, Senator, and one of the things that we have been having discussions [on] is how we’re raising our standards because of what, you know, what we’re having [come] in and doing that. So, we’ve had fewer at the Future Soldier Prep Course. We’re gonna keep that as an option. We do have times where we have some really brilliant soldiers out there that maybe need to spend a couple of weeks getting in a little bit better shape to join our formation. And that’s what that’s for, but [we are] really pleased with the path that we’re on.”
    TUBERVILLE: “As long as we’re putting them through that, and they can handle it—”
    GEORGE: “Yep.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Again, I’ve been through that before. A lot of people need to get in better shape.”
    ON AI IN THE ARMY:
    TUBERVILLE: “In Secretary Hegseth’s memo directing the Army Transformation Initiative, it states that the Army will begin enabling AI driven Command and Control by 2027. Secretary Driscoll, how will the Army be using Artificial Intelligence to help decision making?”
    DRISCOLL: “Senator, we think of the Army as kind of two discrete functions when General George and I talk about it. One is like a large enterprise business that moves people and things across the country and the world. The other is hopefully an incredibly lethal killing machine and war fighting machine. And so, I think AI and Generative AI will meaningfully impact both spaces. The first thing we’re working on is creating a data layer that basically allows for our people and our things and our sensors to all communicate in near real time. On the war fighting function, once you can have that occur, you can layer-in Generative AI for things like fires targeting, or air and missile defense—it’s incredibly valuable. I would estimate that we’ll start to see that at scale in kind of 12-18 months. On the Army and enterprise business side, we’re incredibly optimistic. We have 200 plus enterprise systems right now that are oftentimes siloed. Oftentimes we’ve had software created just for us that we have to maintain that is decades out of date, and we think Generative AI will be able to help us with all sorts of tasks in the coming months. I’m excited to announce, or just give credit to the recruiting team, [that] they’ve onboarded a very common CRM—customer relationship management—tool called Salesforce. Generative AI can be applied to a lot of the things that we do as we recruit soldiers and bring them into the Army.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. You know, right outside the gate at Redstone Arsenal—Secretary, have you been there yet?”
    DRISCOLL: “Would you mind repeating that?”
    TUBERVILLE: “Have you been to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville yet?”
    WICKER: “What state is that in?” 
    TUBERVILLE: “That’s in Alabama.”
    DRISCOLL: “I have.”
    ON QUANTUM COMPUTING: 
    TUBERVILLE: “Okay. If you haven’t, we need to get in there. And by the way, you’re making decisions and transforming our military. I’m good with that. You’re actually cutting some contracts and things in my state. If it helps [save taxpayer dollars], I’m all for it. And so, we’ll work with you as much as we can. 
    But right outside the gate at Redstone, a partnership between Davidson Technologies and D-Wave have completed the assembly of a quantum computer system that should be soon complete [with] its calibrations and readiness tests. Secretary, how can the Army leverage these new systems in successfully implementing its transformation and optimize the future the right way?”
    DRISCOLL: “Senator Slotkin and I were at a dinner a couple nights ago talking about quantum computing. And what quantum computing is going to be able to do to help our ability to process information as human beings is otherworldly. It [can be used for] something as simple as convoy routes for transportation all the way up to—you could probably start to plan out where should you put air and missile defense systems and how would they react in near real time to threats. And so, any sort of innovation like that we are completely supportive of.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. A lot of good things going on, especially with AI. I hope we all understand too that for AI and all the future big tech stuff, we’re gonna need energy, big time. China doubles our energy every three years that we have in this country. We’re way behind, and we can talk about all these technologies that we want. Unless we have energy, which is gonna be, should be, a national security threat, then we’re gonna have huge problems. If you agree with that, Secretary.”
    DRISCOLL: “Yes.”
    TUBERVILLE: “General?”
    GEORGE: “Yes, Senator. I do.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. I would hope we start talking about it a lot more. Make sure that, you know, with all these things we got coming down the pipe that we have the availability to number one, be able to build them and number two, have the energy to run all of our data centers and mega data centers in the future. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Condemns Republicans’ Egregious Attack on Clean Air and Public Health

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (June 5, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and co-chair of the Senate Climate Change Task Force, today released the following statement after Senate Republicans released the Environment and Public Works portion of their reconciliation bill text.
    “Time is revealing Senate Republicans’ willingness to abandon communities nationwide and put Oil Above All —above the law, above the economy, and above the health and wallets of working families. Their proposed cuts would eliminate the safeguards and funding needed to reduce harmful air pollution and environmental health risks. Their cuts would also destroy the $20 billion climate bank I secured in the Inflation Reduction Act, which was already at work creating jobs, lowering Americans’ energy costs, strengthening our energy independence, and combating the climate crisis. 
    “Republicans have no interest in bringing down costs or helping everyday Americans. Instead, they are picking winners and losers to deliver a big bonus to Big Oil and Gas. Republicans want to cut funding for clean energy, community resilience, and pollution reduction, all while giving polluters a golden ticket to skirt any meaningful reviews to get their projects permitted – rubberstamping dangerous polluting infrastructure.
    “These Republican cuts will ensure frontline and fenceline communities continue to bear the burden of disproportionate levels of pollution. Ripping away the tools needed to curb methane and reduce carbon and hazardous pollutants will only make Americans sicker while the rich get richer. We must say no to these dangerous cuts and stop this big billionaire sell-out once and for all.”
    Senator Markey secured numerous provisions in the historic Inflation Reduction Act, including the creation of a $27 billion national climate financing network based on his National Climate Bank Act with Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06). He also secured historic environmental justice funding for air quality monitoring, environmental inequity mapping, and addressing extreme heat.
    Senator Markey has been a champion of vehicle emission standards that would be rolled back by the Senate reconciliation text, which would increase pollution and force drivers to pay more at the pump. He has also long championed a robust National Environmental Policy Act, which the Senate Republican bill undermines with an opt-in fee for project sponsors to pay to expedite their project’s environmental review and avoid judicial review – rubberstamping potentially harmful infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey Hosts Listening Session on the Impacts of Republican Attacks on Digital Equity

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Senate Republicans recently voted to repeal an FCC rule increasing access to Wi-Fi hotspots for students and educators at home
    Washington (June 5, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, hosted a virtual listening session Wednesday to hear from digital equity advocates about the impacts of the Trump administration’s efforts to cut funding for digital equity programs in Massachusetts and across the country. From the administration’s termination of Digital Equity Act funding, to Republican efforts to block E-Rate funding for Wi-Fi hotspots for students and educators at home, these actions have had dire consequences for efforts to close the digital divide. More than 200 digital equity champions from across Massachusetts joined the Senator’s listening session to share their stories.
    “Trump’s decision to cancel funding for Digital Equity Act grants is reckless, short-sighted, and illegal,” said Senator Markey. “These grants were promises — real, actionable investments in real communities to bridge the very real gaps in internet access, digital skills, and opportunity. I appreciated listening to and learning from the many digital equity advocates in Massachusetts about the impact these cuts will have on their organizations and the populations they serve. I will carry their stories with me in our fight for a just digital future.”
    “Everyone deserves access to the internet. It’s essential for being able to participate in our economy and utilize the resources and services that so many of us rely on,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. “It’s terrible that the Trump Administration is blocking our efforts to bring internet access to veterans, rural communities and individuals with disabilities across the state. They need to restore this funding.”
    “Massachusetts is committed to empowering our most vulnerable citizens with digital skills training, devices and other resources to thrive in our digital society,” said Michael Baldino, Director of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute. “As we work to achieving universal access to reliable broadband service, we are disappointed that the federal government has stripped critical funds that are necessary for us to implement our statewide digital equity plan.”
    “Through Ameelio’s work, correctional staff see how connection to the outside world betters everyone behind bars – the incarcerated people and their fellow officers alike,” said April Feng, CEO of Ameelio. “When people are connected to those who they love and those who love them, to the best parts of their lives, they have hope. And that hope will sustain them to serve their time meaningfully, go to school, find a job, build a home, and enable a future. Investing in digital equity behind the walls is not just a matter of improving conditions for incarcerated individuals — it is a public safety and economic imperative.”
    Senator Markey is the House author of the E-Rate program, which has invested nearly $62 billion to connect schools and libraries to the internet across the country. Massachusetts schools and libraries have received more than $895 million from the E-Rate program and another $97 million from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a $7 billion program that Senator Markey created within the American Rescue Plan to provide devices and connectivity for students and educators at home.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Hosts Virtual Town Hall with AJC Leaders to Discuss Rise of Antisemitism and Collaborative Solutions to Address Disturbing National Trend

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    NEWARK, N.J. – This afternoon, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) hosted a virtual discussion with American Jewish Committee (AJC) New Jersey board members to discuss the rise of antisemitism nationwide. Following the event, Senator Booker said:
    “We’re seeing a disturbing rise of antisemitism across our country. In less than a month, we’ve witnessed two horrifying violent antisemitic attacks, one that claimed the lives of two young staffers working at the Israeli embassy, including one American, as they were walking out of an event in Washington, D.C., and another that injured a dozen peaceful Jewish marchers in Boulder, Colorado. It’s moments like these when we must come together and reaffirm our commitment to eradicate hate and bigotry in all its forms. I’m humbled to have been joined by leaders of AJC New Jersey this afternoon to hear about their concerns, their vital work, and how we can continue to bolster our partnership to safeguard the wellbeing of Jewish people across New Jersey and our nation,” said Booker.
    Convening the meeting on the heels of the murder of two young staffers working at the Israeli embassy, including one American, as they were walking out of a Jewish event, the horrifying attack against peaceful Jewish marchers in Boulder, Colorado, and against the backdrop of an increasing trend of antisemitism nationwide, Senator Booker and AJC New Jersey leadership members spoke candidly about the challenges facing the Jewish community. AJC board members asked the Senator about federal initiatives and legislation to support state and local efforts to curb antisemitism and outlined the issues specifically affecting Jewish New Jerseyans.
    “We deeply appreciated Senator Booker once again spending time in dialogue with our American Jewish Committee’s New Jersey leadership. After recent days that saw the shocking murders of two young Jewish leaders at an AJC event in Washington, D.C., and the horrifying attack on peaceful Jewish marchers in Boulder, CO, Sen. Booker’s profound expressions of care, concern, and resolve were deeply appreciated,” said Rabbi David Levy, Regional Director AJC New Jersey.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Lendmark Financial Services Unveils its Strategic Growth Plan for Florida

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark), a leading provider of personalized loan solutions, today announced plans to expand its retail branch footprint across North and Central Florida. Beginning with the debut of its Ocala branch last week, the company plans to add more than 10 branch locations in or around Gainesville, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tallahassee, and Tampa. In tandem, the lender will also expand its other financing solutions, providing loans for customers of small, independent automobile dealerships and retail businesses.

    Celebrating 29 years in business this August, Lendmark has opened more than 200 branches in the past five years alone, resulting from strategically intentional growth coast-to-coast. The company continues to expand into new regions, most recently Wisconsin, with a branch portfolio of more than 520 locations across 22 states.

    Lendmark plans to add approximately 25 more branches to its overall portfolio in 2025. Though data-driven site selection, disciplined execution and planful acquisitions are contributing factors, the company’s growth strategy truly begins with putting people first.

    “We’re ready to rise and shine – like only Lendmark can – as we bring our first-rate service excellence to communities across the Sunshine State to meet the financial needs of more Floridians,” said Bret Hyler, President and Chief Operating Officer of Lendmark. “We believe the Lendmark experience is underpinned by the level of empathy and trust our loan consultants build with customers in each branch, growing into genuine relationships that, in many cases, last beyond the life of the loan.”

    With two existing branches in the Brandon and Orlando markets, Lendmark is primed to welcome thousands of Florida customers to its planned branch openings over the next three-to-five years, starting with Ocala and then its St. Augustine location later this summer.

    Better Together: Florida Growth Driven by Relationship-based Approach

    Lendmark’s approach to lending begins with the fundamental premise that lending solutions should be in the best interest of the customer and the lender. This helps drive a satisfactory loan experience and positive customer outcome. The company remains laser-focused on creating a differentiated customer experience that fosters deep relationships with individual customers, business partners, and the local community at large.

    “What sets Lendmark apart is the way that we connect with and care for each customer who walks through our doors. This is a business where our local branch, retail and auto sales teams know you by name and greet you with a warm ‘hello’ at every interaction,” continued Hyler. “We take time to meet the communities we’ll be serving before we move in, and we’re excited to support new customers across Florida, including small businesses and individuals.”

    Lendmark loans are used to purchase local goods and services, such as car and home repairs, personal care, debt consolidation, household goods, and more. With every loan solution offered, the company ensures that its customers have simple and affordable fixed terms, and a payment that works within their household budget.

    As part of the loan experience, the company also offers a curated selection of credit and insurance ancillary products to customers. These optional products, such as Involuntary Unemployment Insurance (IUI), are intended to help cover unplanned life events, like the unexpected loss of a job, that could occur during the life of the loan. These consumer-driven choices help protect the borrower’s credit profile so that the loan associated with their unplanned life event does not negatively impact their credit history.

    Lendmark Serves: Doing Good by Giving Back

    Giving back to the people and places Lendmark serves is at its core. Each year, employees around the country support dozens of causes in the communities where they live and work, participating in local volunteer activities and championing Lendmark’s signature philanthropic initiative,‘Climb to Cure,’ which kicked off in 2015.

    The company will raise over $10 million by August 31, 2025 to mark its 10-year anniversary partnering with CURE Childhood Cancer, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to funding lifesaving pediatric cancer research that is utilized nationwide.

    So far, Lendmark’s employees, partners and customers have rallied together to raise $8.83 million, all of which directly supports CURE in its fight to conquer childhood cancer while caring for recently diagnosed patients and their families.

    About Lendmark Financial Services

    Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark) provides personal and household credit and loan solutions for consumers. Founded in 1996, Lendmark strives to be the lender, employer, and partner of choice by helping consumers meet both planned and unplanned life events through affordable loan offerings.

    Lendmark currently operates more than 520 branches in 22 states across the country, providing personalized services to customers and retail business partners with every transaction. Lendmark is headquartered in Lawrenceville, Ga.

    For more information, visit www.lendmarkfinancial.com.

    Media Contacts  
    Lisa Burby
    Vice President, Corporate Communications
    lburby@lendmarkfinancial.com
    678-913-1720    		 Jeff Hamilton
    Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
    jhamilton@lendmarkfinancial.com
    678-625-3128

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Concrete Pumping Holdings Reports Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: BBCP) (the “Company” or “CPH”), a leading provider of concrete pumping and waste management services in the U.S. and U.K., reported financial results for the second quarter ended April 30, 2025.

    Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Summary vs. Second Quarter of Fiscal Year 2024 (where applicable)

    • Revenue of $94.0 million compared to $107.1 million.
    • Gross profit of $36.2 million compared to $41.8 million.
    • Income from operations of $8.3 million compared to $12.1 million.
    • Net loss of $0.0 million compared to net income of $3.0 million.
    • Net loss attributable to common shareholders was $0.4 million, or $(0.01) per diluted share, compared to net income of $2.6 million, or $0.05 per diluted share.
    • Adjusted EBITDA1 of $22.5 million compared to $27.5 million, with Adjusted EBITDA margin1 of 23.9% compared to 25.7%
    • Amounts outstanding under debt agreements were $425.0 million with net debt1 of $387.2 million. Total available liquidity at quarter end was $352.5 million compared to $216.9 million one year ago.
    • Leverage ratio1 at quarter end of 3.7x.

    Management Commentary

    “In the second quarter, we continued to navigate a challenging construction environment, marked by persistent macroeconomic headwinds and regional weather disruptions,” said CPH CEO Bruce Young. “Despite these pressures, we delivered solid results by remaining focused on cost discipline, fleet optimization, and strategic pricing across our businesses.”

    “Our U.S. Concrete Waste Management segment once again delivered strong growth, highlighting both the appeal of our unique offering and the rising demand for sustainable jobsite solutions. Although our U.S. Concrete Pumping segment remains affected by weakness in commercial construction and, more recently, by emerging challenges in residential construction, the infrastructure market has remained resilient, helping to partially offset broader market pressures and support the segment’s performance.”

    “We remain committed to generating strong free cash flow, deleveraging the balance sheet, and pursuing disciplined, strategic M&A that complements our core capabilities and geographic footprint. These priorities position us well for long-term value creation. While the near-term demand backdrop remains challenged, we are confident that our leadership position, operational discipline, and breadth of service offerings will allow us to capitalize on the eventual recovery in commercial construction activities.”

    ______________
    1 Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, net debt and leverage ratio are financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a discussion of the non-GAAP financial measures used in this release and a reconciliation to their most comparable GAAP measures.

    Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Results

    Revenue in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $94.0 million compared to $107.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to a continued slowdown from deferrals in commercial construction work and emerging challenges in residential work, mostly due to high interest rates, uncertainty around extensions of U.S. tax policy and adverse weather events in the months of February and April. Further, while the Company has not been directly impacted by tariffs, the added uncertainty surrounding tariffs has contributed to the deferral of certain commercial construction projects.

    Gross profit in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $36.2 million compared to $41.8 million in the prior year quarter. Gross margin declined 50 basis points to 38.5% compared to 39.0% in the prior year quarter.

    General and administrative expenses (“G&A”) in the second quarter declined 6% to $27.9 million compared to $29.7 million in the prior year quarter primarily due to lower labor costs of approximately $1.3 million and non-cash decreases in amortization expense of $0.8 million. As a percentage of revenue, G&A costs were 29.7% in the second quarter compared to 27.7% in the prior year quarter.

    Net loss in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $0.0 million compared to net income of $3.0 million in the prior year quarter. Net loss attributable to common shareholders in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $0.4 million, or $(0.01) per diluted share, compared to net income of $2.6 million, or $0.05 per diluted share, in the prior year quarter.

    Adjusted EBITDA in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $22.5 million compared to $27.5 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 23.9% compared to 25.7% in the prior year quarter.

    Liquidity

    On April 30, 2025, the Company had debt outstanding of $425.0 million, net debt of $387.2 million and total available liquidity of $352.5 million.

    Segment Results

    U.S. Concrete Pumping. Revenue in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $62.1 million compared to $74.6 million in the prior year quarter. The decline was driven by a continued slowdown from deferrals in commercial construction work and emerging challenges in residential work, mostly due to high interest rates, uncertainty around extensions of U.S. tax policy and adverse weather events in the months of February and April. Further, while the Company has not been directly impacted by tariffs, the added uncertainty surrounding tariffs has contributed to the deferral of certain commercial construction projects. Net loss in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $1.6 million compared to net income of $0.9 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA was $12.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 compared to $17.5 million in the prior year quarter. These decreases were largely driven by the decrease in revenue, as discussed above.

    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services. Revenue in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 increased 7% to $18.1 million compared to $16.9 million in the prior year quarter. The increase was driven by organic growth and pricing improvements. Net income in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $1.2 million compared to net income of $1.1 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 increased 12% to $6.7 million compared to $5.9 million in the prior year quarter. Increases in both net income and adjusted EBITDA are mostly due to higher revenue and disciplined cost control.

    U.K. Operations. Revenue in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $13.8 million compared to $15.5 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the impact from foreign currency translation, revenue was down 13% year-over-year, due to lower volumes caused by a general slowdown in commercial construction work. Net income in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 was $0.4 million compared to $1.0 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA was $3.2 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 compared to $4.1 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the impact from foreign currency translation, net income and adjusted EBITDA changes were primarily related to the decrease in revenue.

    Fiscal Year 2025 Outlook

    The Company now expects fiscal year 2025 revenue to range between $380.0 million to $390.0 million, Adjusted EBITDA to range between $95.0 million to $100.0 million, and free cash flow2 to be approximately $45.0 million. These expectations assume the construction market will not start to meaningfully recover until fiscal year 2026 and that the Company continues to strengthen its organizational infrastructure and invest in its fleet to position the business for growth in fiscal 2026.

    ________________
    2 Free cash flow is defined as Adjusted EBITDA less net maintenance capital expenditures and cash paid for interest.

    Share Repurchase Program

    In June 2025, the board of directors of the Company approved a $15.0 million increase to the Company’s share repurchase program. Including this increase, there have been a total of $50.0 million in authorizations since the inception of the share repurchase program in June 2022. All authorizations are set to expire on December 31, 2026.

    During the six months ended April 30, 2025, the Company repurchased 1,311,386 shares for a total of $7.8 million at an average share price of $5.97 per share. Including the new $15.0 million share repurchase authorization approved in June 2025, a total of $24.2 million would have been available for purchase under the Company’s repurchase program as of April 30, 2025.

    “Today’s additional $15.0 million share repurchase authorization reflects our commitment to driving shareholder value,” said Bruce Young. “Our disciplined approach to capital allocation, strong free cash flow and consistent operational execution have allowed us to support the growth of our businesses while delivering expected shareholder returns and creating long-term value.”

    Conference Call

    The Company will hold a conference call on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its second quarter 2025 results.

    Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
    Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (3:00 p.m. Mountain Time)
    Toll-free dial-in number: 1-877-407-9039
    International dial-in number: 1-201-689-8470
    Conference ID: 13752905

    Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group, Inc. at 1-949-574-3860.

    The conference call will be broadcast live and is available for replay here (https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1714111&tp_key=af0b6ebb93) as well as the investor relations section of the Company’s website at www.concretepumpingholdings.com.

    A replay of the conference call will be available after 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the same day through June 12, 2025.

    Toll-free replay number: 1-844-512-2921
    International replay number: 1-412-317-6671
    Replay ID: 13752905

    About Concrete Pumping Holdings

    Concrete Pumping Holdings is the leading provider of concrete pumping services and concrete waste management services in the fragmented U.S. and U.K. markets, primarily operating under what we believe are the only established, national brands in both geographies – Brundage-Bone for concrete pumping in the U.S., Camfaud in the U.K., and Eco-Pan for waste management services in both the U.S. and U.K. The Company’s large fleet of specialized pumping equipment and trained operators position it to deliver concrete placement solutions that facilitate labor cost savings to customers, shorten concrete placement times, enhance worksite safety and improve construction quality. Highly complementary to its core concrete pumping service, Eco-Pan seeks to provide a full-service, cost-effective, regulatory-compliant solution to manage environmental issues caused by concrete washout. As of April 30, 2025, the Company provided concrete pumping services in the U.S. from a footprint of approximately 90 branch locations across 22 states, concrete pumping services in the U.K. from approximately 35 branch locations, and route-based concrete waste management services from 21 operating locations in the U.S. and one shared location in the U.K. For more information, please visit www.concretepumpingholdings.com or the Company’s brand websites at www.brundagebone.com, www.camfaud.co.uk, or www.eco-pan.com.

    Forward‐Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company’s actual results may differ from expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “believes,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “outlook” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the Company’s expectations with respect to future performance, including the Company’s fiscal year 2025 outlook. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results. Most of these factors are outside the Company’s control and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: the adverse impact of recent inflationary pressures, changes in foreign trade policies, restrictive monetary policies, global economic conditions and developments related to these conditions, such as fluctuations in fuel costs on our business; adverse and severe weather conditions; the outcome of any legal proceedings, rulings or demand letters that may be instituted against or sent to the Company or its subsidiaries; the ability of the Company to grow and manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; the ability to identify and complete targeted acquisitions and to realize the expected benefits from completed acquisitions; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the possibility that the Company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This press release presents Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, net debt, free cash flow and leverage ratio, all of which are important financial measures for the Company but are not financial measures defined by GAAP.

    EBITDA is calculated by taking GAAP net income and adding back interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs net of interest income, income tax expense, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated by taking EBITDA and adding back loss on debt extinguishment, stock-based compensation, changes in the fair value of warrant liabilities, other expense (income), net, goodwill and intangibles impairment and other adjustments. Other adjustments include non-recurring expenses, non-cash currency gains/losses and transaction expenses. Transaction expenses represent expenses for legal, accounting, and other professionals that were engaged in the completion of various acquisitions. Transaction expenses can be volatile as they are primarily driven by the size of a specific acquisition. As such, the Company excludes these amounts from Adjusted EBITDA for comparability across periods.

    The Company believes these non-GAAP measures of financial results provide useful supplemental information to management and investors regarding certain financial and business trends related to our financial condition and results of operations, and as a supplemental tool for investors to use in evaluating our ongoing operating results and trends and in comparing our financial measures with competitors who also present similar non-GAAP financial measures. In addition, these measures (1) are used in quarterly and annual financial reports and presentations prepared for management, our board of directors and investors, and (2) help management to determine incentive compensation. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have limitations and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for performance measures calculated under GAAP. These non-GAAP measures exclude certain cash expenses that the Company is obligated to make. In addition, other companies in our industry may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently or may not calculate it at all, which limits the usefulness of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as comparative measures. Adjusted EBITDA margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by total revenue for the period presented. See below for a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income (loss) calculated in accordance with GAAP.

    Net debt as a specified date is calculated as all amounts outstanding under debt agreements (currently this includes the Company’s term loan and revolving line of credit balances, excluding any offsets for capitalized deferred financing costs) measured in accordance with GAAP less cash. Cash is subtracted from the GAAP measure because it could be used to reduce the Company’s debt obligations. A limitation associated with using net debt is that it subtracts cash and therefore may imply that there is less Company debt than the most comparable GAAP measure indicates. CPH believes this non-GAAP measure provides useful information to management and investors in order to monitor the Company’s leverage and evaluate the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. See “Reconciliation of Net Debt” below for a reconciliation of Net Debt to amounts outstanding under debt agreements calculated in accordance with GAAP.

    The leverage ratio is defined as the ratio of net debt to Adjusted EBITDA for the trailing four quarters. The Company believes its leverage ratio measures its ability to service its debt and its ability to make capital expenditures. Additionally, the leverage ratio is a standard measurement used by investors to gauge the creditworthiness of an institution.

    Free cash flow is defined as Adjusted EBITDA less net maintenance capital expenditures and cash paid for interest. This measure is not a substitute for cash flow from operations and does not represent the residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures, since certain non-discretionary expenditures, such as debt servicing payments, are not deducted from the measure. CPH believes this non-GAAP measure provides useful information to management and investors in order to monitor and evaluate the cash flow yield of the business.

    The financial statement tables that accompany this press release include a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA and net debt to the applicable most comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure. However, the Company has not reconciled the forward-looking Adjusted EBITDA guidance range and free cash flow range included in this press release to the most directly comparable forward-looking GAAP measures because this cannot be done without unreasonable effort due to the lack of predictability regarding the various reconciling items such as provision for income tax expense and depreciation and amortization.

    Current and prospective investors should review the Company’s audited annual and unaudited interim financial statements, which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate the Company’s business. Other companies may calculate Adjusted EBITDA, net debt and free cash flow differently and therefore these measures may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

    Contact:

    Company:
    Iain Humphries
    Chief Financial Officer
    1-303-289-7497    		 Investor Relations:
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    Cody Slach
    1-949-574-3860
    BBCP@gateway-grp.com  
       
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
                 
        As of April 30,     As of October 31,  
    (in thousands, except per share amounts)   2025     2024  
    Current assets:                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 37,788     $ 43,041  
    Receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $881 and $916, respectively     48,378       56,441  
    Inventory     6,157       5,922  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     11,231       6,956  
    Total current assets     103,554       112,360  
                     
    Property, plant and equipment, net     412,967       415,726  
    Intangible assets, net     99,793       105,612  
    Goodwill     223,998       222,996  
    Right-of-use operating lease assets     24,757       26,179  
    Other non-current assets     11,437       12,578  
    Deferred financing costs     2,284       2,539  
    Total assets   $ 878,790     $ 897,990  
                     
    Current liabilities:                
    Revolving loan   $ –     $ 20  
    Operating lease obligations, current portion     4,860       4,817  
    Accounts payable     12,341       7,668  
    Accrued payroll and payroll expenses     11,757       14,303  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities     27,069       28,673  
    Income taxes payable     1,861       850  
    Total current liabilities     57,888       56,331  
                     
    Long term debt, net of discount for deferred financing costs     417,346       373,260  
    Operating lease obligations, non-current     20,418       21,716  
    Deferred income taxes     84,402       86,647  
    Other liabilities, non-current     11,891       13,321  
    Total liabilities     591,945       551,275  
                     
                     
    Zero-dividend convertible perpetual preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 2,450,980 shares issued and outstanding as of April 30, 2025 and October 31, 2024     25,000       25,000  
                     
    Stockholders’ equity                
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 52,132,683 and 53,273,644 issued and outstanding as of April 30, 2025 and October 31, 2024, respectively     6       6  
    Additional paid-in capital     388,737       386,313  
    Treasury stock     (35,972 )     (25,881 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)     3,089       (483 )
    Accumulated deficit     (94,015 )     (38,240 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     261,845       321,715  
                     
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 878,790     $ 897,990  
                     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
                 
        Three Months Ended April 30,     Six Months Ended April 30,  
    (in thousands, except per share amounts)   2025     2024     2025     2024  
                                     
    Revenue   $ 93,958     $ 107,062     $ 180,404     $ 204,773  
    Cost of operations     57,776       65,295       112,987       129,692  
    Gross profit     36,182       41,767       67,417       75,081  
    Gross margin     38.5 %     39.0 %     37.4 %     36.7 %
                                     
    General and administrative expenses     27,922       29,712       55,672       61,570  
    Income from operations     8,260       12,055       11,745       13,511  
                                     
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs     (8,554 )     (6,903 )     (14,769 )     (13,426 )
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     –       –       (1,392 )     –  
    Interest income     260       30       673       90  
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     –       –       –       130  
    Other income (expense), net     28       44       62       84  
    Income (loss) before income taxes     (6 )     5,226       (3,681 )     389  
                                     
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (2 )     2,180       (1,038 )     1,169  
                                     
    Net income (loss)     (4 )     3,046       (2,643 )     (780 )
                                     
    Less preferred shares dividends     (426 )     (430 )     (865 )     (870 )
                                     
    Loss available to common shareholders   $ (430 )   $ 2,616     $ (3,508 )   $ (1,650 )
                                     
    Weighted average common shares outstanding                                
    Basic     52,699       53,430       52,875       53,501  
    Diluted     52,699       54,380       52,875       53,501  
                                     
    Net income per common share                                
    Basic   $ (0.01 )   $ 0.05     $ (0.07 )   $ (0.03 )
    Diluted   $ (0.01 )   $ 0.05     $ (0.07 )   $ (0.03 )
                                     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
           
        For the Six Months Ended April 30,  
    (in thousands, except per share amounts)   2025     2024  
                     
    Net loss   $ (2,643 )   $ (780 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:                
    Non-cash operating lease expense     2,575       2,567  
    Foreign currency adjustments     (54 )     (451 )
    Depreciation     20,726       20,565  
    Deferred income taxes     (2,706 )     (590 )
    Amortization of deferred financing costs     896       890  
    Amortization of intangible assets     6,058       7,771  
    Stock-based compensation expense     905       1,273  
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     –       (130 )
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     1,392       –  
    Net gain on the sale of property, plant and equipment     (188 )     (1,147 )
    Other operating activities     (46 )     65  
    Net changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
    Receivables     8,407       6,279  
    Inventory     (130 )     612  
    Other operating assets     (6,297 )     (2,420 )
    Accounts payable     4,296       (1,218 )
    Other operating liabilities     (2,424 )     (3,841 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities     30,767       29,445  
                     
    Cash flows from investing activities:                
    Purchases of property, plant and equipment     (19,491 )     (28,817 )
    Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment     3,232       5,236  
    Net cash used in investing activities     (16,259 )     (23,581 )
                     
    Cash flows from financing activities:                
    Proceeds on long term debt     425,000       –  
    Payments on long term debt     (375,000 )     –  
    Proceeds on revolving loan     124,474       167,611  
    Payments on revolving loan     (124,494 )     (170,138 )
    Dividends paid     (53,132 )        
    Payment of debt issuance costs     (8,153 )     –  
    Purchase of treasury stock     (8,508 )     (3,017 )
    Other financing activities     (136 )     1,409  
    Net cash used in financing activities     (19,949 )     (4,135 )
    Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash     188       366  
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     (5,253 )     2,095  
    Cash and cash equivalents:                
    Beginning of period     43,041       15,861  
    End of period   $ 37,788     $ 17,956  
                     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Segment Revenue
                 
        Three Months Ended April 30,     Change  
    (in thousands, unless otherwise stated)   2025     2024     $     %  
    U.S. Concrete Pumping     62,109     $ 74,617     $ (12,508 )     (16.8 )%
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services(1)     18,057       16,898       1,159       6.9 %
    U.K. Operations     13,792       15,547       (1,755 )     (11.3 )%
    Total revenue   $ 93,958     $ 107,062     $ (13,104 )     (12.2 )%
    (1) For the three months ended April 30, 2025 and 2024, intersegment revenue of $0.1 million is excluded.
        Six Months Ended April 30,     Change  
    (in thousands, unless otherwise stated)   2025     2024     $     %  
    U.S. Concrete Pumping   $ 119,022     $ 141,300     $ (22,278 )     (15.8 )%
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services(1)     34,750       32,518       2,232       6.9 %
    U.K. Operations     26,632       30,955       (4,323 )     (14.0 )%
    Total revenue   $ 180,404     $ 204,773     $ (24,369 )     (11.9 )%
    (1) For the six months ended April 30, 2025 and 2024, intersegment revenue of $0.2 million isexcluded.
     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Segment Adjusted EBITDA and Net Income (Loss)

    During the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, the Company updated its methodology in which the Company allocates its corporate costs to better align with the manner in which the Company now allocates resources and measures performance. As a result, segment results for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

        Three Months Ended April 30, 2024     Six Months Ended April 30, 2024  
    (in thousands)   U.S. Concrete Pumping     U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services     U.S. Concrete Pumping     U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services  
    As Previously Reported                                
    Net income (loss)   $ (999 )   $ 3,001     $ (7,843 )   $ 5,406  
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, net of interest income     6,193       –       11,947       –  
    EBITDA     15,979       6,188       23,016       11,568  
    Stock-based compensation     737       –       1,273       –  
    Other expense (income), net     (7 )     –       (27 )     (7 )
    Other Adjustments     514       –       3,668       –  
    Adjusted EBITDA     17,223       6,188       27,930       11,561  
                                     
    Recast Adjustment                                
    Net income (loss)   $ 1,936     $ (1,936 )   $ 5,578     $ (5,578 )
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, net of interest income     (1,566 )     1,566       (3,323 )     3,323  
    EBITDA     370       (370 )     2,255       (2,255 )
    Stock-based compensation     (189 )     189       (350 )     350  
    Other expense (income), net     –       –       3       (3 )
    Other Adjustments     67       (67 )     (774 )     774  
    Adjusted EBITDA     248       (248 )     1,134       (1,134 )
                                     
    Current Report As Recast                                
    Net income (loss)   $ 937     $ 1,065     $ (2,265 )   $ (172 )
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, net of interest income     4,627       1,566       8,624       3,323  
    EBITDA     16,349       5,818       25,271       9,313  
    Stock-based compensation     548       189       923       350  
    Other expense (income), net     (7 )     –       (24 )     (10 )
    Other Adjustments     581       (67 )     2,894       774  
    Adjusted EBITDA     17,471       5,940       29,064       10,427  
                                     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Segment Adjusted EBITDA and Net Income (Loss) Continued
           
        Net Income (Loss)  
        Three Months Ended April 30     Change  
    (in thousands, unless otherwise stated)   2025     2024     $     %  
    U.S. Concrete Pumping   $ (1,601 )   $ 937     $ (2,538 )     *  
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services     1,202       1,065       137       (12.9 )%
    U.K. Operations     395       1,044       (649 )     (62.2 )%
    Total   $ (4 )   $ 3,046     $ (3,050 )     (100.1 )%
    *Change is not meaningful                                
                                     
        Adjusted EBITDA  
        Three Months Ended April 30     Change  
    (in thousands, unless otherwise stated)   2025     2024     $     %  
    U.S. Concrete Pumping   $ 12,663     $ 17,471     $ (4,808 )     (27.5 )%
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services     6,655       5,940       715       12.0 %
    U.K. Operations     3,179       4,137       (958 )     (23.2 )%
    Total   $ 22,497     $ 27,548     $ (5,051 )     (18.3 )%
        Net Income (Loss)  
        Six Months Ended April 30     Change  
    (in thousands, unless otherwise stated)   2025     2024     $     %  
    U.S. Concrete Pumping   $ (4,681 )   $ (2,265 )   $ (2,416 )     (106.7 )%
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services     1,426       (172 )     1,598       *  
    U.K. Operations     612       1,527       (915 )     (59.9 )%
    Other     –       130       (130 )     *  
    Total   $ (2,643 )   $ (780 )   $ (1,863 )     (238.8 )%
    *Change is not meaningful                                
                                     
        Adjusted EBITDA  
        Six Months Ended April 30     Change  
    (in thousands, unless otherwise stated)   2025     2024     $     %  
    U.S. Concrete Pumping   $ 21,800     $ 29,064     $ (7,264 )     (25.0 )%
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services     11,701       10,427       1,274       12.2 %
    U.K. Operations     6,007       7,339       (1,332 )     (18.1 )%
    Total   $ 39,508     $ 46,830     $ (7,322 )     (15.6 )%
                                     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Quarterly Financial Performance
                                         
    (dollars in millions)   Revenue     Net Income     Adjusted EBITDA1     Capital Expenditures2     Adjusted EBITDA less Capital Expenditures     Earnings (Loss) Per Diluted Share  
                                                     
    Q1 2024   $ 98     $ (4 )   $ 19     $ 17     $ 3     $ (0.08 )
    Q2 2024   $ 107     $ 3     $ 28     $ 7     $ 21     $ 0.05  
    Q3 2024   $ 110     $ 8     $ 32     $ 6     $ 26     $ 0.13  
    Q4 2024   $ 111     $ 9     $ 34     $ 2     $ 32     $ 0.16  
    Q1 2025   $ 86     $ (3 )   $ 17     $ 4     $ 13     $ (0.06 )
    Q2 2025   $ 94     $ –     $ 22     $ 12     $ 10     $ (0.01 )
                                                     
    1Adjusted EBITDA is a financial measure that is not calculated in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States (“GAAP”). See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a discussion of the definition of this measure and reconciliation of such measure to its most comparable GAAP measure.
    2Information on M&A or growth investments included in net capital expenditures have been included for relevant quarters below:
    *Q1 2024 capex includes approximately $5 million growth investment.
    *Q2 2024 capex includes approximately $1 million M&A and $3 million growth investment.
    *Q3 2024 capex includes approximately $4 million growth investment.
    *Q4 2024 capex includes approximately $3 million growth investment.
    *Q1 2025 capex includes approximately $2 million growth investment.
    *Q2 2025 capex includes approximately $2 million growth investment.
     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Net Income to Reported EBITDA to Adjusted EBITDA
                 
        Three Months Ended April 30,     Six Months Ended April 30,  
    (dollars in thousands)   2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Consolidated                                
    Net income (loss)   $ (4 )   $ 3,046     $ (2,643 )   $ (780 )
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, net of interest income     8,294       6,873       14,096       13,336  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (2 )     2,180       (1,038 )     1,169  
    Depreciation and amortization     13,584       14,239       26,784       28,337  
    EBITDA     21,872       26,338       37,199       42,062  
    Loss on debt extinguishment     –       –       1,392       –  
    Stock based compensation     538       737       905       1,273  
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     –       –       –       (130 )
    Other expense (income), net     (28 )     (44 )     (62 )     (84 )
    Other adjustments(1)     115       517       74       3,709  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 22,497     $ 27,548     $ 39,508     $ 46,830  
                                     
    U.S. Concrete Pumping                                
    Net income (loss)   $ (1,601 )   $ 937     $ (4,681 )   $ (2,265 )
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, net of interest income     5,211       4,627       8,522       8,624  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (482 )     515       (1,662 )     (1,588 )
    Depreciation and amortization     9,006       10,270       18,081       20,500  
    EBITDA     12,134       16,349       20,260       25,271  
    Loss on debt extinguishment     –       –       862       –  
    Stock based compensation     371       548       609       923  
    Other expense (income), net     (4 )     (7 )     (18 )     (24 )
    Other adjustments(1)     162       581       87       2,894  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 12,663     $ 17,471     $ 21,800     $ 29,064  
                                     
    U.S. Concrete Waste Management Services                                
    Net income (loss)   $ 1,202     $ 1,065     $ 1,426     $ (172 )
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, net of interest income     2,369       1,566       4,141       3,323  
    Income tax expense     332       1,067       415       1,982  
    Depreciation and amortization     2,651       2,120       4,927       4,180  
    EBITDA     6,554       5,818       10,909       9,313  
    Loss on debt extinguishment     –       –       530       –  
    Stock based compensation     167       189       296       350  
    Other expense (income), net     (12 )     –       (14 )     (10 )
    Other adjustments     (54 )     (67 )     (20 )     774  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 6,655     $ 5,940     $ 11,701     $ 10,427  
                                     
    (1) Other adjustments include the adjustment for non-recurring expenses and non-cash currency gains/losses. For the six months ended April 30, 2024, other adjustments includes a $3.5 million non-recurring charge related to sales tax litigation.
     
        Three Months Ended April 30,     Six Months Ended April 30,  
    (dollars in thousands)   2025     2024     2025     2024  
    U.K. Operations                                
    Net income   $ 395     $ 1,044     $ 612     $ 1,527  
    Interest expense, net     714       680       1,433       1,389  
    Income tax expense     148       598       209       775  
    Depreciation and amortization     1,927       1,849       3,776       3,657  
    EBITDA     3,184       4,171       6,030       7,348  
    Other expense (income), net     (12 )     (37 )     (30 )     (50 )
    Other adjustments     7       3       7       41  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 3,179     $ 4,137     $ 6,007     $ 7,339  
                                     
    Other                                
    Net income   $ –     $ –     $ –     $ 130  
    EBITDA     –       –       –       130  
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     –       –       –       (130 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ –     $ –     $ –     $ –  
                                     
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Net Debt
                                   
        April 30,     July 31,     October 31,     January 31,     April 30,  
    (in thousands)   2024     2024     2024     2025     2025  
    Senior Notes     375,000       375,000       375,000       425,000       425,000  
    Revolving loan draws outstanding     16,428       –       20       –       –  
    Less: Cash     (17,956 )     (26,333 )     (43,041 )     (85,132 )     (37,788 )
    Net debt   $ 373,472     $ 348,667     $ 331,979     $ 339,868     $ 387,212  
                                             
     
    Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Historical Adjusted EBITDA
                                           
    (dollars in thousands)   Q1 2024     Q2 2024     Q3 2024     Q4 2024     Q1 2025       Q2 2025  
    Consolidated                                                
    Net income (loss)   $ (3,826 )   $ 3,046     $ 7,560     $ 9,427     $ (2,639 )   $ (4 )
    Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs     6,463       6,873       6,261       5,976       5,802       8,294  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (1,011 )     2,180       3,081       3,854       (1,036 )     (2 )
    Depreciation and amortization     14,097       14,239       14,491       14,283       13,200       13,584  
    EBITDA     15,723       26,338       31,393       33,540       15,327       21,872  
    Transaction expenses     –       –       –       –       –       –  
    Loss on debt extinguishment     –       –       –       –       1,392       –  
    Stock based compensation     536       737       644       477       367       538  
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     (130 )     –       –       –       –       –  
    Other expense (income), net     (39 )     (44 )     (276 )     (47 )     (34 )     (28 )
    Other adjustments(1)     3,191       517       (123 )     (290 )     (41 )     115  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 19,281     $ 27,548     $ 31,638     $ 33,680     $ 17,011     $ 22,497  
                                                     
    (1) Other adjustments include the adjustment for non-recurring expenses and non-cash currency gains/losses. For the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, other adjustments includes a $3.5 million non-recurring charge related to sales tax litigation.
     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Byrna Technologies Announces Preliminary Fiscal Second Quarter Record Revenues of $28.5 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANDOVER, Mass., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byrna Technologies Inc. (“Byrna” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BYRN), a technology company, specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of innovative less-lethal personal security solutions, today announced select preliminary financial results for the fiscal second quarter ended May 31, 2025.

    Preliminary Second Quarter Results
    Based on preliminary unaudited results, Byrna expects total revenue for the fiscal second quarter of 2025 to be $28.5 million, representing a 41% increase from $20.3 million in the fiscal second quarter of 2024. The record Q2 performance was driven by strong early demand for the new Byrna Compact Launcher (CL), which launched on May 1, along with meaningful channel expansion.

    E-commerce sales grew 15% year-over-year, supported by growing brand recognition and an increasingly balanced channel mix.

    Dealer sales rose 106% year-over-year to $7.5 million, driven by early success in the Company’s partnership with Sportsman’s Warehouse, which soft-launched Byrna products in select stores during the second quarter. As of quarter-end, the program had rolled out an initial group of stores featuring shop-in-shop formats, with in-store ‘Byrna Genius’ installations expected to begin in July to support continued growth and deepen in-store engagement. Growth in the dealer channel also reflected continued momentum from Byrna’s traditional distributor network.

    International sales rose 86%, including approximately $800,000 in royalty revenue from Byrna LATAM, which is up from a negligible base in the prior year period.

    To ensure sufficient supply for the CL launch and build inventory across product lines, Byrna produced 38,237 Compact Launchers in the quarter, contributing to a total of 63,835 launchers manufactured.

    Management Commentary
    “We are continuing to raise the bar at Byrna and are encouraged with our ability to generate a record $28.5 million in revenue for the second quarter,” said Byrna CEO Bryan Ganz. “While we saw softness in overall consumer spending throughout the quarter, the launch of the CL and sustained expansion of our total addressable market helped drive a 41% year-over-year increase in revenue. This success is a testament to the growing strength of our brand and the innovation behind the CL.

    “Over the past six months, we’ve steadily ramped production to support a successful launch of the CL. With the rollout now underway and a healthy inventory of SD and LE launchers in place, we are transitioning to a steady-state production cadence of 15,000 launchers per month. Combined with the ramping Sportsman’s Warehouse partnership and an expanded influencer roster—including the recent addition of Tucker Carlson—we’re well positioned to maintain momentum through the second half of 2025 and beyond.”

    Preliminary Fiscal Second Quarter 2025 Sales Breakdown:

    Sales Channel ($ in millions) Q2 2025
    		 Q2 2024
    		 % Change
    Web 16.6   14.4   15%
    Byrna Dedicated Dealers 7.5   3.6   106%
    Law Enforcement / Schools / Pvt Security 0.1   0.0   120%
    Retail Stores 0.8   0.2   223%
    International 3.6   1.9   86%
    Total Sales 28.5   20.3   41%


    Conference Call
    Byrna plans to report its full financial results for the fiscal second quarter in July, which will be accompanied by a conference call to discuss the results and address questions from investors and analysts. The conference call details will be announced prior to the event.

    About Byrna Technologies Inc.
    Byrna is a technology company specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of innovative non-lethal personal security solutions. For more information on the Company, please visit the corporate website here or the Company’s investor relations site here. The Company is the manufacturer of the Byrna® SD personal security device, a state-of-the-art handheld CO2 powered launcher designed to provide a non-lethal alternative to a firearm for the consumer, private security, and law enforcement markets. To purchase Byrna products, visit the Company’s e-commerce store.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the securities laws. All statements contained in this news release, other than statements of current and historical fact, are forward-looking. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans,” “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” and “believes” and statements that certain actions, events or results “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “might,” “occur,” “be achieved,” or “will be taken.” Forward-looking statements include descriptions of currently occurring matters which may continue in the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, our statements related to preliminary revenue results for the second fiscal quarter 2025, the timing of the release of full financial results for the quarter, expectations for future sales growth and demand trends, the impact of marketing strategies, the anticipated performance of new products and retail store expansion, and the Company’s ability to sustain momentum throughout 2025. Forward-looking statements are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are based on, among other things, opinions, assumptions, estimates, and analyses that, while considered reasonable by the Company at the date the forward-looking information is provided, inherently are subject to significant risks, uncertainties, contingencies, and other factors that may cause actual results and events to be materially different from those expressed or implied.

    Any number of risk factors could affect our actual results and cause them to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this news release, including, but not limited to, disappointing market responses to current or future products or services; prolonged, new, or exacerbated disruption of the Company’s supply chain; the further or prolonged disruption of new product development; production or distribution or delays in entry or penetration of sales channels due to inventory constraints, competitive factors, increased shipping costs or freight interruptions; prototype, parts and material shortages, particularly of parts sourced from limited or sole source providers; determinations by third party controlled distribution channels not to carry or reduce inventory of the Company’s products; determinations by advertisers to prohibit marketing of some or all Byrna products; the loss of marketing partners or endorsers; potential cancellations of existing or future orders including as a result of any fulfillment delays, introduction of competing products, negative publicity, or other factors; product design defects or recalls; litigation, enforcement proceedings or other regulatory or legal developments; changes in consumer or political sentiment affecting product demand; regulatory factors including the impact of commerce and trade laws and regulations; import-export related matters or tariffs, sanctions or embargos that could affect the Company’s supply chain or markets; delays in planned operations related to licensing, registration or permit requirements; and future restrictions on the Company’s cash resources, increased costs and other events that could potentially reduce demand for the Company’s products or result in order cancellations. The order in which these factors appear should not be construed to indicate their relative importance or priority. We caution that these factors may not be exhaustive; accordingly, any forward-looking statements contained herein should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. Investors should carefully consider these and other relevant factors, including those risk factors in Part I, Item 1A, (“Risk Factors”) in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K, should understand it is impossible to predict or identify all such factors or risks, should not consider the foregoing list, or the risks identified in the Company’s SEC filings, to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties, and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

    Investor Contact:
    Tom Colton and Alec Wilson
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    949-574-3860
    BYRN@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Average price of MTPL policy in Q1 was 6.9 thousand rubles

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    In January-March 2025, the cost of a classic MTPL policy for ordinary motorists was on average 5.1% lower than a year earlier (7.3 thousand rubles). They issued almost 8.3 million such compulsory motor insurance contracts.

    Another 1.5 million classic MTPL policies were issued to other categories of policyholders (public transport, business representatives, etc.). In the first quarter, about 0.9 million were concluded.short-term OSAGO contractsThese policies are in demand mainly among taxi drivers, who took them out for an average of two days for 272 rubles.

    The total amount of premiums under compulsory motor third party liability insurance amounted to 73.9 billion rubles, and payments amounted to 51.7 billion rubles.

    Overall, the insurance market in Q1 increased almost 1.5 times, to 845.4 billion rubles. As in the previous year, almost all of the growth was provided by the segment of accumulative and investment life insurance. The volume of payments for this period increased more than twofold, to 602.5 billion rubles. Read more about the situation on the market in“Review of key performance indicators of insurers”.

    Preview photo: LeManna / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 24681

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev: Rosprirodnadzor’s systematic work allows us to identify and fairly stop environmental violations

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On Ecologist Day, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev spoke at a meeting of the board of Rosprirodnadzor. He spoke about the department’s successes last year and outlined the tasks for the current year.

    “Our country is consistently moving towards achieving environmental well-being. It is Rosprirodnadzor that the state has entrusted with the responsible role of verifying the quality of measures implemented within the framework of the national project of the same name in this large-scale process. This concerns control over wastewater treatment, elimination of accumulated damage, as well as the level of air pollution and other areas of work. In all these areas, a rational supervision system has been built, which, in general, allows us to identify and fairly suppress environmental violations,” Dmitry Patrushev emphasized.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that in 2024, the service’s activities provided almost 32.5 billion rubles in revenues to the consolidated budget, which is 30% more than the forecast expectations. The bulk of these funds are directed to environmental programs in regional budgets.

    The department’s activities actively include electronic services, including for collecting reports and budget administration. From 2020 to 2025, the number of services provided digitally increased 16 times and now covers their entire range. Dmitry Patrushev added that digitalization will help expand the remote control system, which in turn will increase the mobility of Rosprirodnadzor and the number of events carried out.

    The Deputy Prime Minister reported that in 2024, the number of preventive visits and warnings from the department exceeded 80 thousand, which is almost twice as much as the year before. At the same time, the number of scheduled inspections is decreasing. Last year, 30% fewer of them were carried out than in 2023.

    Rosprirodnadzor also continues to assess the impact of accumulated harm on the environment for inclusion in the relevant register. Last year, more than 230 accumulated harm objects were surveyed and assessed in 49 regions.

    Dmitry Patrushev outlined the department’s tasks for the current year, including within the framework of work to complete the construction of treatment facilities on the Volga and Baikal, issuing comprehensive environmental permits, and administering the extended producer responsibility reform.

    Rosprirodnadzor is also assigned a key role in the experiment on quotas for pollutant emissions in cities participating in the federal project “Clean Air”. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the list of such objects and the quota sizes should be established this year.

    In conclusion, Dmitry Patrushev noted that over the past six years, funding for Rosprirodnadzor and its subordinate institutions has increased by 3.5 times. In addition, in 2025, the Government has additionally allocated 6 billion rubles to increase salaries for employees of the agency over the coming years, which will also help attract young, motivated specialists to the industry.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tatyana Golikova visited the Noginsky boarding house in the Moscow region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On the eve of Social Worker Day, Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova visited the gerontology department of the Noginsky boarding house in Chernogolovka, Moscow Region.

    “Today’s visit is connected with the fact that our colleagues, workers of the social service system, have a professional holiday. These are incredible people who give themselves to those who come to them with their difficult life situations. I sincerely want to thank all social workers of the country for this work, for the love for those people to whom they give themselves,” Tatyana Golikova congratulated the workers.

    During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister inspected the boarding house and talked to residents and staff. The institution has double occupancy, an assembly hall, a tea room, a library, and a physical therapy room.

    “Today in the Moscow Region we are also getting acquainted with active longevity technologies, which, on the instructions of the head of state, we will implement from January 1, 2025, as part of the national project “Family”. I am sure that thanks to such technologies, the number of senior citizens will grow. We see that technologies allow us to nurse even the most seriously ill patients so that they return to life, to society and become active. Now we are working in two areas: to support the older generation and those people who need help, people with disabilities, people who suffered during a special military operation, and their families. We are actively developing a long-term care system. By 2030, on the instructions of the head of state, 500 thousand of our citizens should be covered by long-term care, now it is 174 thousand. Such social homes are also one of the areas. As part of our project, together with the regions, we will carry out major repairs of 43 such houses and build 55. The most important thing is that these are not the same nursing homes that were before. This is a completely new look for social homes, where people who come here find their family, and sometimes even get married,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    The department employs 35 people, and is home to 45 elderly and disabled people. They have daily classes – Nordic walking, fitness, drawing, beading, string art, decoupage, dancing, cooking, and also have their own choir. All residents undergo annual medical examinations.

    In 2025, the boarding house took first place in the country as the best organization with the safest and most harmless working conditions.

    In total, there are 36 state-run boarding houses in the Moscow region, where 7 thousand elderly citizens and disabled people live.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Seven winners of the third wave of selection of research centers in the field of artificial intelligence will receive 4.7 billion rubles

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    At the Government Coordination Centre, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko presented the results of the selection of the third wave of research centres in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). The winning universities and research organisations will receive grants to conduct research and create breakthrough world-class industry solutions.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko reported that the winners were HSE University, Innopolis, ISP RAS, ITMO University, MIPT, Skoltech, and for the first time, Lomonosov Moscow State University will be involved in the research.

    “Each of the seven selected third wave centers will receive 676 million rubles for two years – until 2026 – to conduct fundamental research in the field of strong, trusted, multi-agent AI. The total amount of budget funding will be 4.7 billion rubles for all centers,” he added.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin set the task of focusing on fundamental areas in the field of AI and conducting research in other areas, but with the mandatory use of AI technologies. Within the framework of the federal project “Artificial Intelligence”, the operator of which is the Ministry of Economic Development, a grant competition is being held for research centers.

    “Investments in AI research centers have already proven their effectiveness. The first wave of centers dealt with issues of strong, trusted, ethical artificial intelligence. The second wave is dedicated to industry research for medicine, transport, industry and smart cities. These centers create almost half of all Russian scientific groundwork in AI. President Vladimir Putin set the task of publishing at least 450 papers at top-level conferences in the field of AI in the world by 2030 – A*. We see that investments are achieving results, so the Government continues to develop such support programs,” Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized.

    He added that an important foresight session on fundamental and exploratory research in the field of AI was held in 2024. At it, leading Russian scientists with a global reputation identified 10 priority areas for the development of science in the field of artificial intelligence in the coming years.

    “These areas are a strategic benchmark for public investment, which, as a rule, also attracts off-budget investment. The selection of the third wave was carried out taking into account these priorities, and we plan to conduct further research in Russia in relation to them. The Ministry of Economic Development and the Ministry of Education and Science are also preparing a unified research program in the field of AI, which will consolidate this logic,” concluded Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    He asked the selected centers to support the winners and prize winners of the AI Olympiads, who also took part in the event.

    A total of 19 applications from centers from 10 regions of Russia were submitted for selection. The centers’ programs state the key areas of foresight in fundamental and exploratory research in the field of AI, conducted in 2024: agent/multi-agent systems, elements of strong AI, fundamental and generative AI models.

    “Artificial intelligence today has a significant impact on the development of many sectors of the economy. On the instructions of the President, the national strategy for the development of AI until 2030 is being implemented. Support for the activities of research centers in this area is a critically important tool that allows us to create a research base for the comprehensive development of sovereign AI in the country,” said First Deputy Minister of Economic Development Maxim Kolesnikov.

    Grigory Bokov, Director of the Research Center for Artificial Intelligence at Lomonosov Moscow State University, said that the goal of their center is to develop modern artificial intelligence technologies, including in the direction of so-called general artificial intelligence, capable of solving a wide range of problems, just as humans do.

    “We combine deep scientific research with applied developments that can already be in demand in the economy, industry, medicine and education. The project involves specialists from seven departments of Moscow State University, including leading Russian and foreign scientists,” he said.

    Expert support for the competitive selection and subsequent support for the implementation of research center activity programs is provided by the Strategic Agency for Support and Formation of AI Developments (SAPFIR), a project office created on the basis of the Skolkovo Foundation.

    “In the next two years, SAPFIR will focus on supporting research centers to achieve all their goals in both the scientific and commercial parts. Their activities will contribute to the creation of a technological reserve for Russia in the field of artificial intelligence, as well as attracting and developing the best personnel in the country,” said SAPFIR Director Tatyana Soyuznova.

    Let us recall that in 2021, the first wave of research centers in the field of AI was selected as part of the federal project “Artificial Intelligence” (national program “Digital Economy”). Six scientific and educational organizations received state support totaling more than 8 billion rubles. Their work resulted in 165 articles in leading scientific journals, 206 publications at top-level conferences, as well as the creation and support of 15 frameworks. Together with 36 industrial partners, including Sber, Yandex, MTS and other large companies, the centers have already implemented about 50 applied solutions.

    As part of the second selection wave, support was received by industry AI centers based at leading universities and research centers, such as the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, S.P. Korolev Samara University, and others. These centers focus on training industry specialists, creating databases, and supporting specialized frameworks. RUB 3.8 billion from the federal budget has been allocated to finance their activities in 2023–2026.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev and Kirov Region Governor Alexander Sokolov discussed agricultural development and regional environmental issues

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with Kirov Region Governor Alexander Sokolov. They discussed the development of the region’s agro-industrial complex, as well as the environmental agenda.

    The Kirov Region maintains its position in the ranking of regions – leaders in milk production volume, according to this indicator it is among the five largest in the Russian Federation. It constantly demonstrates growth. Last year, Kirov livestock breeders received almost 860 thousand tons of milk.

    The sowing campaign is coming to an end in the region. Spring crops have been sown on about 300 thousand hectares (more than 84% of the area). Dmitry Patrushev drew attention to the fact that farmers must be provided with all the necessary resources to carry out field work.

    The meeting also discussed issues of ecology and nature conservation. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the Kirov Region is rich in forest resources and issues related to forest management are strategic for the socio-economic development of the region.

    Alexander Sokolov spoke about the development of the waste management system in the Kirov Region. By 2030, the region plans to create 10 solid municipal waste management infrastructure facilities. The most significant project for the region is the construction of the Central waste processing complex in the Slobodskoy District. The enterprise will become one of the elements of the smart waste collection system, its sorting and processing into raw materials for further production.

    The meeting summed up the results of the implementation of the national project “Ecology” in the region. In the Kirov region, six unauthorized dumps were eliminated, measures were taken to preserve forests and improve the system of handling solid municipal waste. Almost 3 billion rubles were allocated from the federal budget for these purposes.

    Within the framework of the new national project “Environmental Well-being”, which was launched this year, work in these areas will continue.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 700 thousand meters of barrier fences will be installed on roads this year under the national project “Infrastructure for Life”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Thanks to the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, large-scale work is being carried out in the regions of the country not only to update the road network, but also to equip facilities with safety elements.

    “Improving the safety of all road users is one of the key objectives of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, especially with the growing level of motorization, traffic intensity and population mobility. To implement it, large-scale work is being carried out in the regions participating in the national project not only to update the road network, but also to equip facilities with safety elements. Every repaired kilometer of road, traffic light and illuminated section is a contribution to preventing accidents and protecting Russians. In 2025, more than 700 traffic lights, almost 219 thousand meters of street lighting lines, over 700 thousand meters of barriers and 123 thousand meters of pedestrian fences will be installed in the participating regions. Specialists will equip more than 485 thousand meters of sidewalks and 14.5 thousand meters of pedestrian paths, 4.4 thousand meters of rumble strips, and install almost 96.1 thousand road signs,” he said. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    On the instructions of the President of Russia, the mortality rate from road accidents must be reduced by 1.5 times by 2030 and by 2 times by 2036 compared to the 2023 figure.

    “The solution to these problems will require the expansion of interdepartmental cooperation in all key positions in the field of road safety. We have positive experience in implementing the previous national project. Its distinctive feature was that road works were carried out in a comprehensive manner. The current pace must be maintained in the new national project “Infrastructure for Life”. This year, to achieve its indicators, road works will be carried out on almost 26 thousand km of the federal, regional and local road network. Accordingly, measures will be taken to ensure road safety at the sites,” said Transport Minister Roman Starovoit.

    Particular attention is paid to routes to socially significant facilities, where infrastructure elements are designed taking into account increased pedestrian traffic.

    “This year, we plan to bring almost 3,000 km of regional and local roads leading to educational institutions, more than 2,000 km of roads to tourist attractions, and the same number to medical institutions into compliance with the regulations. Each facility must be served by a high-quality road with the necessary elements to ensure the safety of road users,” emphasized Igor Kostyuchenko, Deputy Head of the Federal Road Agency.

    Such work is actively carried out in the Republic of Ingushetia. Particular attention is paid to those routes that are most in demand by children during the summer holidays: these are approaches to summer and health camps, sports facilities, and playgrounds. This year, the republic plans to install almost 380 road signs, 33 pedestrian crossings, 8 speed bumps, 18,000 linear meters of sidewalks, and 196 linear meters of pedestrian fencing.

    In Krasnoyarsk Krai, about 20 km of sidewalks will be installed under the national project. In addition, new lighting lines with a length of almost 30 km will be installed within the boundaries of populated areas. It will become lighter this year in the village of Sizaya in Shushensky District, the city of Lesosibirsk in Yenisei District, the settlement of Novoangarsk in Motyginsky District, and the village of Bol’shiye Knyshi in Idrinsky District. About 64.5 km of metal barrier fencing will also be installed.

    Sidewalk construction is actively underway in the Moscow Region. In total, it is planned to build more than 60 km of sidewalks on 70 sites. In particular, in Serpukhov, work is being carried out on several sections of the Serpukhov-Glazovo-Kuzmenki highway at once: from the Sudimlya stop to the intersection with the A-108 highway and further to the Ryblovo stop, on the approach to the stops in the village of Novaya. In the Odintsovo District, a sidewalk is being built along the Zvenigorodskoye Highway in Golitsyno – it will provide residents with convenient access to the railway station and nearby infrastructure. In the Ramensky District, work is being carried out in the village of Ryleevo near the Ganusovskaya School, this will allow students to safely get to the educational institution. The new sidewalk will also make the path to the kindergarten, sports ground and Memory Alley comfortable.

    The installation of cable barriers is another effective measure to reduce accidents: by separating traffic flows, the probability of driving into the oncoming lane is reduced and head-on collisions are prevented. Road workers have already completed more than half of the planned volume of work on installing such barriers – about 15 km out of the planned 30 km. In eight municipal and urban districts, the installation of cables has been fully completed: in Istra, Kashira, Kolomna, Krasnogorsk, Solnechnogorsk, Shchyolkovo, Sergiev Posad and Leninsky districts.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov took part in the meeting of the Advisory Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov took part in the annual meeting of the Advisory Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia chaired by Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov.

    At the meeting, the heads of the working groups of the Advisory Council summed up the results of the previous year’s activities and voiced proposals for the development of the radio-electronic industry, agricultural and transport engineering, as well as international cooperation. In addition, it was proposed to create additional working groups – on metallurgy and heavy engineering.

    The Advisory Council was formed on April 10, 2014 (Order of the Ministry of Industry and Trade No. 673). The Advisory Council includes 11 ministers of the USSR, RSFSR and the Russian Federation in the main industries: chemical, construction, electrical engineering, machine tool building, transport, defense, trade and heavy engineering. Meetings of the Advisory Council are held annually.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – June 5, 2025

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

    Department Press Briefing with Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott at the Department of State, on June 5, 2025.

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

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

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
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    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX6VgPLuWOU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seventeen New Addictions Spaces Open at Province’s Largest Family Treatment Centre

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 5, 2025

    Today, Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr announced $7.3 million in annual funding for 17 new adult addictions treatment spaces at The Carter House.

    The Carter House is a family treatment centre in Saskatoon where parents and children participate in treatment activities together to address substance use and family stability together.

    “I am pleased to announce new addictions treatment spaces that will provide those experiencing addictions with the right care at the right time, without separating them from their support system,” Carr said. “By enabling families to work together toward a healthier, safer life in recovery, we can ensure better outcomes for those experiencing addictions.”

    The Carter House provides inpatient addictions treatment for parents who are struggling with substance use disorder. Parents also take part in recreation therapy with their children to help develop parenting skills and family bonds. Children may also receive individual counselling, where needed.

    “The Carter House offers a transformative, family-centred approach to addictions treatment in our province by providing evidence-based care that supports the entire family,” Carter House CEO Dave Broda said. “The Carter House serves primarily those at risk of family separation due to substance use disorder, as well as parents working toward reunification with their children. We are deeply grateful to the Government of Saskatchewan for investing in families impacted by substance use disorder. This support will change lives and strengthen communities across our province.”

    Located at 601 Taylor Street West, The Carter House is operated by Kamor Integrated Health Services through the publicly funded health care system. Services are available to all Saskatchewan residents.

    Kamor was one of the successful proponents chosen through a competitive Request for Supplier Qualifications (RFSQ) initiated by the Ministry of Health, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and SaskBuilds and Procurement seeking addictions treatment services. The agreement to provide the service is between the SHA and Kamor.

    “Families form the fabric of our communities and are the heart of our province,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Chief Operating Officer Derek Miller said. “That’s why ensuring individuals and their families can access support for addictions treatment together is important to the patient-centred care approach the SHA prioritizes. By building an environment nurturing mutual healing and support, the treatment delivered in partnership through The Carter House will establish a resilient foundation to support families on their path to healing and recovery.”

    Under Saskatchewan’s Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions, 281 of the 500 addictions treatment spaces are operational, including the 17 spaces at The Carter House in Saskatoon.

    The 281 spaces also include:

    • 40 withdrawal management spaces at Medavie-MD Ambulance in Saskatoon;
    • 60 inpatient spaces at Willowview Recovery Centre in Lumsden;
    • 15 inpatient treatment spaces at Muskwa Lake Wellness Camp;
    • 15 withdrawal management spaces at Onion Lake Cree Nation;
    • 15 inpatient and five withdrawal management spaces at Thorpe Recovery Centre near Lloydminster;
    • 26 post-treatment spaces at St. Joseph’s Addiction Recovery Centre in Estevan;
    • 32 intensive outpatient treatment spaces through Possibilities Recovery Center in Saskatoon;
    • 14 inpatient addictions treatment spaces with Poundmaker’s Lodge in North Battleford; and
    • 42 virtual spaces through EHN Canada.

    The 2025-26 Provincial Budget invests a record $623 million in mental health and addiction supports and services. This is the largest investment in the province’s history for mental health and addictions supports.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Securing a Healthier Future for SUNY Downstate

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today received the Downstate Community Advisory Board proposal for the more than $1 billion State reinvestment in SUNY Downstate’s hospital. Following months of community input and engagement, the advisory board advanced a proposal that aims to stabilize and renovate the facility and deliver a modern hospital to Central Brooklyn.

    “Central Brooklyn deserves world-class health care, and with this historic $1 billion investment, we’re securing a brighter, healthier future for SUNY Downstate and the communities it serves,” Governor Hochul said. “This plan was shaped by the voices of those who know and rely on Downstate — community members, faculty and staff — and their input was critical to getting this right. I’m grateful to SUNY and the advisory board for their commitment to building a strong, sustainable future SUNY Downstate, and I look forward to thoroughly reviewing the proposed plan.”

    The proposal from the advisory board will:

    • Retain all current inpatient and outpatient services, including maternity and kidney transplant services
    • Convert all double occupancy rooms to private rooms with showers and add additional rooms, resulting in 225 operational beds (with the goal of increasing the current 165 average daily census)
    • Modernize and expand the emergency department to 45 stations
    • Establish/renovate dedicated inpatient specialty units for cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics
    • Build a new hospital annex, including a state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center that expands services in oncology and cardiology
    • Address the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure issues that have resulted in repeated system failures
    • Improve leadership and operations to achieve greater operational sustainability

    SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “SUNY Downstate has long served as a cornerstone of care for Brooklynites – and as a result of Governor Hochul’s leadership and investment, it will continue to do so long into the future. Thank you to Governor Hochul, to the advisory board, and to every community member who contributed to this proposal that will ensure a strong and sustainable SUNY Downstate hospital for the communities we are proud to serve.”

    The advisory board’s task was to consider recommendations to establish a reasonable, scalable and fiscally responsible plan for the financial health, viability, and sustainability of SUNY Downstate within a range of available funds.

    The advisory board – consisting of healthcare and community leaders – worked throughout the past nearly six months to gather input and ideas directly from the community to inform the proposal. Over the course of their deliberations, the advisory board:

    • Held four public hearings (one more than statutorily required) on January 22, February 27, March 13, and April 28, with two in Community Board #9 and two in Community Board #17
    • Met with numerous community stakeholders including the SUNY Downstate Medical School Department Chairs, the Brooklyn for Downstate advocacy group (twice), the leadership at SUNY Downstate, and other regional healthcare providers
    • Carefully reviewed analysis of the community health needs (including the Brooklyn for Downstate data needs analysis and recommendations for the future of SUNY Downstate, the Community Health Needs Assessment 2022 prepared by the NYC Health & Hospitals, and the New York State Department of Health’s Study of Healthcare System Inequities and Perinatal Access in Brooklyn report), Downstate Hospital’s financials, and the condition of Downstate Hospital’s physical plant
    • Engaged a team of consultants to provide expert analysis, infrastructure assessment, financial modeling, architectural and engineering scenarios, and coordination, including ADENA Consulting Group, LLC, QPK Design, Ramboll, Ewing Cole, and Kaufman Hall. In addition, at stakeholders’ request, the advisory board engaged Deloitte to independently assess the reasonableness of the financial modeling and identify options to reduce the ongoing operating deficit.

    After gathering public and stakeholder input over many months, the approach now recommended by the advisory board was presented to the public as an option under consideration at the fourth public hearing on April 28. View materials from the public hearings here.

    Downstate’s hospital provides inpatient and outpatient health care services in Central Brooklyn and leads in research and scholarship to address health disparities in New York City and across the state.

    Last year, SUNY Downstate’s hospital faced a $100 million annual deficit and was at risk of being unable to operate without additional funding, while contending with a hospital facility in disrepair and vulnerable to major crises, including recent major infrastructure incidents.

    In response, Governor Hochul worked with the Legislature and SUNY to develop a plan to engage community leaders in developing a sustainable future for Downstate and provided a historic capital investment. The Governor championed $750 million in capital funding for SUNY Downstate’s hospital in the 2024-25 and 2025-26 Enacted State Budgets, and directed SUNY to dedicate its anticipated $50 million annual capital allocations in each of the next seven years to bring the total investment to more than $1 billion.

    SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University President Dr. Wayne J. Riley said, “This plan represents an extraordinary investment in SUNY Downstate’s hospital and a bright future for our patients, our students, and our faculty and staff. I want to thank Governor Hochul, the Brooklyn legislative delegation, the SUNY Board of Trustees and Chancellor King, the faculty and staff of SUNY Downstate, and the faith leaders, labor organizations, and other community stakeholders who have worked together to envision a strong and achievable future for SUNY Downstate.”

    SUNY Trustee and Chair of the Academic Medical Centers and Hospitals Committee Eric Corngold said, “SUNY is proud of the unique and important role SUNY Downstate plays in Central Brooklyn and New York State. We are committed to a strong and sustainable future for SUNY Downstate and grateful to Governor Hochul for a historic investment in SUNY Downstate’s hospital.”

    New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James V. McDonald said, “Governor Hochul has shown a strong commitment to strengthening health care across New York—from expanding mental health services to supporting the nursing workforce and modernizing medical facilities. Investing in SUNY Downstate’s hospital is a critical step that will improve health outcomes and better serve the residents of Central Brooklyn.”

    SUNY Downstate Chair of the Department of Community and Family Health Dr. Enitza George, M.D., MBA, MSAI. said, “After six months of working with the DCAB members, I believe these recommendations truly reflect our commitment to listening to the community. We carefully considered what’s needed and balanced it with what’s possible given the current funding. I’m genuinely excited about what’s next—for Brooklyn as a whole and for Downstate in particular.”

    SUNY Downstate Community Advisory Board Member Pastor Louis Hilton Straker Jr. said, “Reinvesting in Downstate will not only mean improved care, it will also mean a sense of safety and dignity for Central Brooklynites. Over the last year, we’ve seen how different voices and perspectives can enter a room and come together to deliver for our communities. Let Downstate serve as a sign of hope on what we can do when New Yorkers stand by each other and insist on solutions.”

    SUNY Downstate Community Advisory Board Member Dr. Lesly Kernisant said, “In my decades of caring for Brooklyn patients, a simple fact is clear: modern facilities and comprehensive services lead to improved care. This investment in SUNY Downstate’s future–which includes vital support for maternal health care–marks an important moment in the collective effort to reduce health disparities and secure a better future for our community.”

    Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “Securing this historic investment in SUNY Downstate is a major victory for Brooklyn—preserving critical services, modernizing the hospital, and reaffirming our commitment to equitable, high-quality care. By establishing the Community Advisory Board, we ensured that the voices of patients, workers, and the community were central to every discussion about Downstate’s future. I applaud Senator Myrie and all my Brooklyn colleagues whose tireless advocacy made this moment possible and who continue to lead the charge toward the full revitalization of SUNY Downstate Medical Center.”

    Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “Securing $1 billion for Downstate is historic – I applaud Governor Hochul and the community leaders who helped shape this proposal. This is an important moment to be investing in our healthcare ecosystem, and Downstate’s modernization can serve as a model for vulnerable facilities across the state.”

    Assemblymember Brian Cunningham said, “As the representative for Central Brooklyn and SUNY Downstate, I have made it a priority to advocate to Governor Hochul and legislative leaders for the investments this hospital needs to serve our community and the city. Through this year’s budget process, we fought to secure critical funding for Downstate and for the healthcare infrastructure that so many New Yorkers rely on. With federal threats to Medicaid mounting, this new commitment from the state could not be more important. I commend the Governor for her leadership in protecting access to care and driving equity across the healthcare system.

    Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said, “SUNY Downstate was founded 165 years ago, and served as a vital healthcare institution and safety-net hospital, helping over 300,000 Brooklynites annually, regardless of their ability to pay. In recent years, our borough’s only academic medical center kept trying to provide innovative, high-quality-care for all, while its 19th century infrastructure crumbled; putting the Downstate Hospital in serious peril; while leaving our most vulnerable constituents with next-to-nothing for healthcare. Gov. Hochul took decisive action, when other leaders swept this problem under the rug, and worked with the Brooklyn Delegation and our communities to deliver a one billion-dollar solution ensuring a bright future for SUNY Downstate and the Brooklynites who depend on it. Thank you to the Advisory Board for providing a blueprint to revitalize SUNY Downstate into a world-class, state-of-the-art health center that will truly save the lives of Brooklynites today and for decades to come.”

    New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis said, “I wholeheartedly applaud Governor Hochul for this historic and transformative $1 billion investment in SUNY Downstate Medical Center—a bold commitment that demonstrates extraordinary leadership and responsiveness to the urgent needs of Central Brooklyn residents. Knowing that this funding will restore full inpatient and outpatient care over 200 beds is a massive achievement in our fight to save this institution. As our community continues to advocate for a transformative and responsive investment, I am proud that our concerns were heard to bring modernized facilities and high-quality services to the working-class families of Central Brooklyn. Governor Hochul listened to the needs of our neighborhoods and I look forward to the strengthening of this essential institution.”

    New York City Council Member Mercedes Narcisse said, “This $1 billion investment and the restoration of 225 beds are crucial steps in ensuring Downstate stays open and continues to serve our community. I am deeply grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and unwavering commitment to preserving this essential healthcare institution in Central Brooklyn. By implementing the majority of the Downstate Community Advisory Board’s recommendations, we are listening to those who know best and ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all who rely on Downstate.”

    Bishop Orlando Findlayter said, “We’ve seen private hospitals across the city close or limit services in recent years, which has been a rising threat to the healthcare of New Yorkers in underserved communities. But thanks to leadership from the Governor and our local community, Downstate will ensure the long-term commitment of all existing inpatient and outpatient services, and will serve as a beacon of care and community.”

    Assemblymember Latrice Walker said, “The release of the Downstate Community Advisory proposal for the reinvestment of more than $1 billion is a victory for the entire Central Brooklyn community, including the constituents of my district who rely on SUNY Downstate Hospital. I’d like to thank all the people who have fought so hard to get us to this point. That includes advocates, SUNY leadership, lawmakers, union leaders, and members of the faith and medical communities. And, of course, we would not be at this critical juncture without the leadership of Gov. Kathy Hochul. The proposal, which follows months of community input, retains kidney transplant and maternity services – which are priorities for my community, as we battle high rates of diabetes and fight for better Black maternal health outcomes. I look forward to the modernization of the emergency department, infrastructure upgrades and many other improvements stemming from the proposal. We have collectively struck a decisive blow in the ongoing effort to combat health disparities in Brooklyn communities of color. The quality of one’s care should not be determined by zip code.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Final of 14 Individuals Sentenced for Dog Fighting

    Source: US State of California

    Following a final sentencing hearing today, all 14 defendants convicted in a large-scale federal dog fighting case in Albany, Georgia, have been sentenced to a total of 343 months in prison for dog fighting and other charges.

    “Dog fighting is an odious form of organized crime, and it’s a magnet for other criminal activity,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The Justice Department and its local partners, such as the Seminole County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office, will not tolerate this callous criminal activity.”

    “The brutality of dog fighting, combined with armed drug distribution, negatively affects our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker for the Middle District of Georgia. “The collaboration among law enforcement agencies at every level during this investigation and prosecution was essential in bringing these defendants to justice and rescuing abused animals.”

    “The Office of Inspector General is committed to working with all of our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners in pursuing individuals who choose to participate in animal fighting activities and engage in violations involving animal welfare,” said Special Agent in Charge Miles Davis of the Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG).

    Details of the total sentencings is below:

    • Donnametric Miller, of Donalsonville, Georgia – 100 months in prison;
    • Fredricus White, of Panama City, Florida – 35 months in prison
    • Christopher Travis Beaumont, of Panama City, Florida – 30 months in prison;
    • Marvin Pulley, of Donalsonville, Georgia – 30 months in prison;
    • Cornelious Johnson, of Panama City, Florida – 27 months in prison;
    • Terelle Ganzy, of Panama City, Florida – 24 months in prison;
    • Willie Russell, of Blakely, Georgia – 24 months in prison;
    • Brandon Baker, of Panama City, Florida – 20 months in prison;
    • Terrance Davis, of Pansey, Alabama – 20 months in prison;
    • Tamichael Elijah, of Donalsonville, Georgia – 18 months in prison;
    • Timothy Freeman, of Bainbridge, Georgia – time served (15 months in prison);
    • Herman Buggs Jr., of Donalsonville, Georgia – time served (two weeks in prison);
    • Rodrecus Kimble, of Donalsonville, Georgia – one year home confinement; and
    • Gary Hopkins, of Donalsonville, Georgia – six months home confinement.

    In addition to prison sentences, the court also imposed restitution for the costs of care of dogs rescued in this investigation. Under federal law, it is illegal to fight dogs in a venture that affects interstate commerce and to possess, train, transport, deliver, sell, purchase or receive dogs for fighting purposes.

    According to court documents filed in this case, defendants from three states all converged on a property in Donalsonville, Georgia, on April 24, 2022, where they held a large-scale dog fighting event. Law enforcement disrupted the event after a 911 call and rescued 27 dogs that night, including one found in the blood-soaked fighting pit with severe injuries who soon died. The participants used their cars to store injured dogs who had already been fought, as well as those whose handlers were awaiting their turn in the fighting pit. Law enforcement personnel also seized a distribution quantity of methamphetamine.

    Seized cell phones in this case contained evidence of some of the participants’ extensive participation in the dog fighting “industry,” including large group dog fighting text message chains, fight reports, and dog fighting videos and photos, including one of a dog who had been hung to death in a garage. Authorities seized and rescued 78 pit bull-type dogs altogether in this investigation, including 51 recovered during search warrants executed with arrest warrants this spring, sparing them from similar fates.

    The USDA-OIG and detectives with the Seminole County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Detectives with the Bay County, Florda, Sheriff’s Office also provided assistance.

    Senior Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy and Trial Attorney Leigh Rendé of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case with assistance from Criminal Chief Leah McEwen of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Morrill and Paralegal Kristi Cote for the Middle District of Georgia handled a parallel civil forfeiture proceeding to ensure that the dogs did not have to be returned to the defendants. The Seized Canine Program of the U.S. Marshals Service cared for the rescued dogs pending legal process.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final of 14 Individuals Sentenced for Dog Fighting

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Following a final sentencing hearing today, all 14 defendants convicted in a large-scale federal dog fighting case in Albany, Georgia, have been sentenced to a total of 343 months in prison for dog fighting and other charges.

    “Dog fighting is an odious form of organized crime, and it’s a magnet for other criminal activity,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The Justice Department and its local partners, such as the Seminole County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office, will not tolerate this callous criminal activity.”

    “The brutality of dog fighting, combined with armed drug distribution, negatively affects our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker for the Middle District of Georgia. “The collaboration among law enforcement agencies at every level during this investigation and prosecution was essential in bringing these defendants to justice and rescuing abused animals.”

    “The Office of Inspector General is committed to working with all of our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners in pursuing individuals who choose to participate in animal fighting activities and engage in violations involving animal welfare,” said Special Agent in Charge Miles Davis of the Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG).

    Details of the total sentencings is below:

    • Donnametric Miller, of Donalsonville, Georgia – 100 months in prison;
    • Fredricus White, of Panama City, Florida – 35 months in prison
    • Christopher Travis Beaumont, of Panama City, Florida – 30 months in prison;
    • Marvin Pulley, of Donalsonville, Georgia – 30 months in prison;
    • Cornelious Johnson, of Panama City, Florida – 27 months in prison;
    • Terelle Ganzy, of Panama City, Florida – 24 months in prison;
    • Willie Russell, of Blakely, Georgia – 24 months in prison;
    • Brandon Baker, of Panama City, Florida – 20 months in prison;
    • Terrance Davis, of Pansey, Alabama – 20 months in prison;
    • Tamichael Elijah, of Donalsonville, Georgia – 18 months in prison;
    • Timothy Freeman, of Bainbridge, Georgia – time served (15 months in prison);
    • Herman Buggs Jr., of Donalsonville, Georgia – time served (two weeks in prison);
    • Rodrecus Kimble, of Donalsonville, Georgia – one year home confinement; and
    • Gary Hopkins, of Donalsonville, Georgia – six months home confinement.

    In addition to prison sentences, the court also imposed restitution for the costs of care of dogs rescued in this investigation. Under federal law, it is illegal to fight dogs in a venture that affects interstate commerce and to possess, train, transport, deliver, sell, purchase or receive dogs for fighting purposes.

    According to court documents filed in this case, defendants from three states all converged on a property in Donalsonville, Georgia, on April 24, 2022, where they held a large-scale dog fighting event. Law enforcement disrupted the event after a 911 call and rescued 27 dogs that night, including one found in the blood-soaked fighting pit with severe injuries who soon died. The participants used their cars to store injured dogs who had already been fought, as well as those whose handlers were awaiting their turn in the fighting pit. Law enforcement personnel also seized a distribution quantity of methamphetamine.

    Seized cell phones in this case contained evidence of some of the participants’ extensive participation in the dog fighting “industry,” including large group dog fighting text message chains, fight reports, and dog fighting videos and photos, including one of a dog who had been hung to death in a garage. Authorities seized and rescued 78 pit bull-type dogs altogether in this investigation, including 51 recovered during search warrants executed with arrest warrants this spring, sparing them from similar fates.

    The USDA-OIG and detectives with the Seminole County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Detectives with the Bay County, Florda, Sheriff’s Office also provided assistance.

    Senior Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy and Trial Attorney Leigh Rendé of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case with assistance from Criminal Chief Leah McEwen of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Morrill and Paralegal Kristi Cote for the Middle District of Georgia handled a parallel civil forfeiture proceeding to ensure that the dogs did not have to be returned to the defendants. The Seized Canine Program of the U.S. Marshals Service cared for the rescued dogs pending legal process.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The proposed Strong Borders Act gives police new invasive search powers that may breach Charter rights

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Robert Diab, Professor, Faculty of Law, Thompson Rivers University

    The new Liberal government has tabled its first bill in Parliament, the Strong Borders Act, or Bill C-2. Buried within it are several new powers that give police easier access to our private information.

    The bill responds to recent calls to beef up the enforcement of our border with the United States. It gives customs and immigration officials new powers: to search items being exported, like potentially stolen vehicles, and to deport migrants believed to be abusing Canada’s refugee protections.

    New police powers

    But while facing pressure from the U.S. to act, the Canadian government is using the apparent urgency of the moment to give police and intelligence agents a host of new powers to search our private data — powers that have nothing to do with the border.

    Some of them are already controversial and will no doubt be tested in the Supreme Court of Canada, if and when they’re passed. But many have also been on the wish list of previous governments, as part of “lawful access” bills that would make it easier for police to obtain details about a person’s online activity in cases involving child pornography, financial or gang-related crime.

    Why now? Why make another attempt to lower the barriers to police access to private data? And what is the controversy over these new powers?

    Gaps in the law

    The Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects the right to privacy of anyone in Canada. Police need authority — explicit permission set out somewhere in the law — to carry out a search or seizure of our private data for an investigative purpose.

    A law that allows police to do this must itself be reasonable, in the sense of striking the right balance between law enforcement and individual privacy.

    For the first 20 years of the web, it wasn’t clear what the police could or couldn’t do to gather information about us online.

    The Supreme Court held in 2014 that when police ask Shaw or Telus to give them a name attaching to an online account, this amounts to a search. While a person’s name and address may not reveal much on its own, the court held, it opens a door to something very private: a person’s entire search history.

    But the court in that case did not decide what kind of power police needed to make this demand, only that police need permission in law to make it.

    In Canadian law, requesting a name and address attached to an online account amounts to a search.
    (Shutterstock)

    In 2024, the Supreme Court held that when police ask for an internet protocol (IP) address linked to a person’s online activity, even that is private because it can open a window onto a lot more personal information.

    Police have been using warrant provisions in the Criminal Code to make a demand for an IP address, or the name and address linked to an online account. To get a warrant, in most cases, they need to show a judge they have reason to believe a crime has been committed that is linked to the account — in other words, they must show probable cause.

    Police have complained about how difficult this can be in some cases. They’ve long been calling for more tools.

    Expansive new powers

    The Strong Borders Act makes it easier for police and other state agents in a few ways.

    It will be easier to get a warrant because the new bill allows police to ask service providers like Shaw or Telus — without a warrant — whether they have information about an IP address or a person’s account.

    To then obtain that information, police need a warrant — but on the lower standard of reasonable suspicion of a crime, instead of probable cause. This can also apply to foreign entities like Google or Meta.

    Canadian Security Intelligence Service agents can ask a provider like Shaw or Google whether they have information about an account holder on no grounds at all. But in this case, the person of interest can’t be a citizen or a permanent resident.

    Compelling providers

    More concerning are powers in the bill compelling companies like Google or Apple, along with Shaw and Telus, to assist police in obtaining access to private data.

    Any company that provides Canadians with a service that stores or transmits information in digital form — pretty much anything we do on a phone or computer — can be ordered to help police gain immediate access to our data.

    The bill does this by stipulating that a company can be told to install “any device, equipment or other thing that may enable an authorized person to access information.”

    There are important limits on this. Police can only gain access if they have a warrant or other lawful permission. And a service provider need not comply with any order that would “introduce a systemic vulnerability,” like compelling them to install a backdoor to encryption.

    But the point is that these new powers compel companies to implement “capabilities” for “extracting… information that is authorized to be accessed.” They turn the brands we have an intimate relationship with — gmail, iCloud, Instagram and many others — into tools of the state.

    Future challenges

    For some of us, the thought that Apple or Google can now be conscripted to serve as a state agent to facilitate ready access to private data is unsettling. Even if there are safeguards.

    Courts will have to decide at some point whether searches conducted under these new powers strike a reasonable balance between law enforcement and personal privacy. Courts have held that our privacy interest in personal data is high.

    Whether police interest in quicker and easier access to that data in certain cases is equally high is an open question. But one thing is clear: it doesn’t seem to have much to do with the border.

    Robert Diab 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. The proposed Strong Borders Act gives police new invasive search powers that may breach Charter rights – https://theconversation.com/the-proposed-strong-borders-act-gives-police-new-invasive-search-powers-that-may-breach-charter-rights-258257

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) Opens its Doors to the Public as it Seeks to Transform Healthcare in Africa

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

    ABUJA, Nigeria, June 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) officially opened today, marking a historic milestone in Africa’s journey towards healthcare sovereignty. The US$300 million tertiary medical facility, developed by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) in partnership with King’s College Hospital London, welcomed His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as guest of honour, represented by His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, alongside high-ranking Government and private sector officials, including the Minsters of Health, Finance, and Foreign Affairs, Nigeria Customs Services, Nigeria Immigration Services, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and Bank of Industry (BOI), among others.

    Located in Abuja and designed to meet the highest global standards, AMCE Abuja offers world-class services across oncology, haematology, cardiology, and general medical services. More than a hospital, the facility represents a bold statement of Africa’s determination to reduce dependence on foreign health systems and reverse the estimated US$6-10 billion Africans spend annually seeking treatment abroad.

    The opening of AMCE Abuja comes at a critical time, as Africa seeks to strengthen its healthcare systems and reduce reliance on external providers. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of this reliance, with global supply shortages putting immense pressure on African nations. Similarly, past responses to health crises like Ebola have reinforced the urgent need for resilient, homegrown solutions. Decades after independence, millions of Africans continue to suffer from diseases like sickle cell and malaria, conditions that could be better managed with targeted local research and investment. Yet these illnesses often receive limited global attention or funding, leaving critical treatment gaps. AMCE Abuja represents a bold step forward, bringing world-class care to the continent, centering African health priorities, and laying the groundwork for a healthier, more self-reliant future. In strategic partnership with Bank of Industry (BOI), and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), AMCE reflects what’s possible when African institutions unite with shared purpose.

     “Today, we are not merely unveiling a building, we are making a bold, collective statement: we will no longer accept medical vulnerability as destiny. The African Medical Centre of Excellence stands as proof that Africa is ready to compete with the best in global healthcare. I commend Afreximbank and its visionary President, Professor Benedict Oramah, and salute the partnership with King’s College Hospital for turning this audacious dream into reality. This is what happens when African institutions confront African challenges with African solutions.

    “Over the past two years, we have taken deliberate steps to transform Nigeria’s health sector—from unlocking the healthcare value chain through the Presidential Initiative (PVAC), to expanding pharmaceutical production, regulatory systems, and diagnostic access, and securing over $2.2 billion in new investments through the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Initiative. But excellence must be sustained. That’s why we’re investing in the roads, power, and connectivity that enable great institutions to thrive. With the largest stem cell lab in West Africa and plans for a medical school, this Centre is more than a hospital, it is a place to heal the sick, and to train the future.” — H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, represented by H.E. Senator Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

    Commenting on the momentous achievement, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of both Afreximbank and AMCE, thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria for providing the land on which the AMCE stands, adding: ” In 2013, I had my own close call when I became seriously ill and was evacuated to King’s College Hospital in London, where a frantic battle to save my life ensued. Being here today is a testament to the power of cutting-edge medical research, clinical knowledge, and a solid healthcare ecosystem. The event we mark today is proof that society is better off saving lives than burying its dead, and that it is a living person who can contribute to development and social transformation. This experience led me to conclude that one of the major contributions I could make to Africa was to help Afreximbank deliver on its health and medical strategy in every way possible. Our vision for the African Medical Centre of Excellence is not just to provide top-notch healthcare but to serve as a catalyst for the transformation of the African health sector, making a bold statement to the world that Africa is finally taking its destiny into its own hands in healthcare sovereignty and global standards.”

    President Oramah also announced the launch of the Africa Life Sciences Foundation to act as the vehicle for mobilising appropriate risk capital to drive research efforts and called on African and non-African governments, banks, high net worth individuals and corporate organisations to join the Bank in investing in the hospital, through this platform.

    Brian Deaver, Chief Executive Officer of AMCE, highlighted the facility’s comprehensive approach: “Today, we don’t just open a hospital—we launch a healthcare revolution for Africa. AMCE represents a paradigm shift in how specialised medical care is delivered on the continent. Our integrated model encompasses early diagnosis, advanced treatment, and long-term disease management, creating a seamless continuum of care that improves patient outcomes and health experiences.”

    He added: “Our mission extends beyond treatment to include world-class medical education, groundbreaking research, and continuous innovation. By combining international expertise with local talent development, AMCE will build sustainable healthcare capacity that serves generations to come.  

    AMCE’s opening signals a new era for Africa — one in which self-reliance replaces dependency, and world-class care is no longer the privilege of a few but the standard for many. By anchoring healthcare delivery, talent development, and innovation on the continent, AMCE is not just stemming the outflow of medical dollars, but redefining Africa’s place in the global health ecosystem.

    Through its clinical partnerships with King’s College Hospital, London and The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, AMCE will be home to advance research, education, and medical excellence by fostering continuous knowledge exchange. In its next phase, AMCE will expand to include a second 350-bed hospital, medical and nursing schools, a medical sciences foundation, research centres, and residential facilities. Together, this integrated ecosystem will position Nigeria as a leading hub for specialist healthcare, medical training, and clinical research on the continent.

    Professor Clive Kay, Chief Executive Officer of King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said, “We are proud to partner with Afreximbank on this important initiative. The African Medical Centre of Excellence represents a positive step forward, and by bringing together world-class clinical standards, training, and research, we aim to share our expertise and support the development of a sustainable model of care that responds directly to the needs of African patients”.

    Now open, AMCE welcomes patients, healthcare professionals, researchers, and partners to join its mission of delivering world-class healthcare, fostering innovation, and building a healthier, more self-reliant Africa. AMCE is the largest specialised private hospital in Nigeria and West Africa focusing on cardiovascular services, haematology, comprehensive oncology, and general medical services. It currently boasts of 170 beds with a plan to expand this to 500 beds upon completion. It features the largest stem cell laboratory in the region, fifteen post stem cell isolation rooms in West Africa alongside five theatres and three catheterisation laboratories. It also features a 20 bed intensive care unit, six critical care unit beds and 20 chemotherapy chairs with compounding pharmacy among others. Some of the specialised equipment in Nigeria and the region are exclusively hosted by AMCE Abuja. They include the 18 Mev cyclotron, 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging, 256 slices computed tomography, brachytherapy machine with iridium source, 4 biosafety cabinets and 128 slices computed tomography machines, among others. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Pushes for Strategic Grazing to Reduce Wildfire Risk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced the Strategic Grazing to Reduce the Risk of Wildfire Act, which would direct the Department of the Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to collaborate with grazing allotment holders, States, Tribes, and local fire departments to create a strategy to use targeted grazing to manage hazardous fuels and reduce risks from wildfires.

    “As the West continues to face the threat of wildfires, it’s essential that we look for ways to protect our communities from devastation,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This bill takes a wildfire prevention and mitigation strategy that’s been proven to work and puts it in place at the federal level. We must make sure there’s an overarching plan to combat these fires that have become all too frequent.”

    Lisa Levine, Director of the Nevada Rural Electric Association said, “We applaud Senator Cortez Masto for bringing forward this common-sense approach to reducing and mitigating wildfires. Nevada has a rich history of cattle grazing that this legislation utilizes for vegetation management. Delivering affordable electricity that is reliable and resilient is the mission of NREA members. Wildfires pose significant risks to communities and the power grid, preventative tools such as this are key to combatting them. That is why we strongly support this bill.” 

    David Cochran, Reno Fire Department Chief said, “Managing risk associated with wildfire is a collaborative effort that requires state, local, and federal agencies to work together to ensure the safety of communities in high-risk areas and protect the livelihoods of people who depend on public lands. Senator Cortez Masto’s Strategic Grazing to Reduce Risk of Wildfire Act would create a framework through which local fire departments, like the Reno Fire Department, can work with grazing allotment holders and federal land management agencies to strategically reduce hazardous fuels in areas likely to be affected by wildfire. Strategic grazing is a proven tool in the fight against wildfire and this legislation would help to promote its use.”

    Vinson Guthreau, Executive Director of the Nevada Association of Counties said, “The threat of wildfire in Nevada is ever present, and our Counties are on the front lines of responding to those disasters.  NACO’s statewide, 17 county membership appreciates this innovative wildfire mitigation approach to prevent fires before they start while also providing grazing opportunities to the agriculture industry which plays a significant role in our state’s economy.  We commend Senator Cortez Masto for bringing this beneficial and important legislation forward.”

    Martin Paris, Executive Director of the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association said, “Livestock grazing is a proven and cost-effective tool to reduce both the occurrence and severity of wildfires. It helps decrease hazardous fuel loads and prevent the spread of invasive annual grasses. The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association greatly appreciates Senator Cortez Masto for addressing the needs of livestock producers while helping to prevent the devastating impacts of wildfire on rangelands, wildlife, and urban areas alike.”

    Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director of the Public Lands Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Natural Resources said, “Ranchers and researchers alike know that grazing prevents wildfires. Not only is livestock grazing proven to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire, but grazing also reduces the intensity and speed of fire if one breaks out. Western ranchers stand ready to be partners with the federal government in reducing catastrophic wildfire, and Senator Cortez Masto’s strategic grazing legislation is welcomed by rural communities across the West that know all too well the threat that wildfire poses.”

    Historic drought conditions across the West have led to devastating fires that grow in scale and intensity every year. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, since 2015, wildfires have burned over 75 million acres across the West. In Nevada specifically, 8.8 million acres have burned in the past two decades, threatening people’s safety, homes, and livelihoods. They also pose tremendous risk to wildlife and the landscapes that serve as their habitats.

    Pilot programs across the United States, including some in Nevada, have shown that the use of strategic grazing can reduce hazardous fuels and slow the spread of a wildfire. The Strategic Grazing to Reduce the Risk of Wildfire Act directs federal agencies to consider the following in the development of the strategic grazing framework: 

    • Targeting specific high-risk areas for grazing – especially those near populated areas.
    • Using temporary grazing permits to reduce risks caused by annual grasses or invasive grasses like cheatgrass that burn easily and help fires spread more quickly.
    • Recommending the use of strategic grazing when providing technical assistance to communities and Tribes undertaking their own wildfire risk management projects.
    • Reimbursing States, local governments, Tribes, and local firefighting agencies who use strategic grazing on federal lands in coordination with federal land management agencies.

    Read the full bill here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts to support Nevada firefighters and combat the wildfire crisis in the West, securing billions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to support wildfire risk reduction and new firefighting equipment. In November, she visited the burn scar of the Davis Fire and discussed key resources she’s delivered for wildfires fuels reduction in Northern Nevada. She also ensured all federal wildland firefighters – including many working in Nevada – got a significant pay raise in 2023 and helped designate the Sierra and Elko Fronts as Wildfire Crisis Strategy Landscapes for wildfire prevention efforts.

    MIL OSI USA News –