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Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI: Gran Tierra Energy Announces Final Voting Results of its Annual Meeting of Stockholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta , May 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (“Gran Tierra” or the “Company”) (NYSE American:GTE) (TSX:GTE) (LSE:GTE) today announced the voting results from the Company’s annual meeting of stockholders held on May 2, 2025.

    Final Voting Results of Gran Tierra’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders: Stockholders elected all nine individuals nominated by Gran Tierra. In addition, stockholders voted “FOR” the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as Gran Tierra’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, and “FOR” the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of Gran Tierra’s named executive officers. The detailed results of the vote are as follows:

    Proposal 1            
    Election of Directors For % Against % Abstain %
                 
    Peter J. Dey 14,663,804 93.40 963,211 6.14 72,717 0.46
    Gary S. Guidry 15,247,118 97.12 405,814 2.58 46,800 0.30
    Evan Hazell 15,122,962 96.33 526,804 3.36 49,966 0.32
    Robert B. Hodgins 14,865,010 94.68 773,101 4.92 61,621 0.39
    Alison Redford 14,853,478 94.61 783,977 4.99 62,277 0.40
    Ronald W. Royal 15,162,337 96.58 476,247 3.03 61,147 0.39
    Sondra Scott 14,708,680 93.69 925,095 5.89 65,957 0.42
    David P. Smith 15,203,723 96.84 431,152 2.75 64,856 0.41
    Brooke Wade 14,915,227 95.00 721,575 4.60 62,930 0.40
                 
    Proposal 2 For % Against % Abstain %
    Ratification of Appointment of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for 2025 20,896,939 94.22 895,614 4.04 386,053 1.74
                 
    Proposal 3 For % Against % Abstain %
    Approval of Named Executive
    Officer Compensation    		 14,320,480 91.21 1,014,963 6.46 364,288 2.32
                 

    2024 Sustainability Report: Gran Tierra is also pleased to announce today that it issued the Company’s “2024 Sustainability Report: Building Long-Term Value and Delivering on Our Commitments”. The report can be found on the Company’s website at www.grantierra.com/esg.

    About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

    Gran Tierra Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, is an independent international energy company currently focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador. The Company is currently developing its existing portfolio of assets in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and will continue to pursue additional new growth opportunities that would further strengthen the Company’s portfolio. The Company’s common stock trades on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GTE. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra is available at www.grantierra.com. Except to the extent expressly stated otherwise, information on the Company’s website or accessible from our website or any other website is not incorporated by reference into and should not be considered part of this press release. Investor inquiries may be directed to info@grantierra.com or (403) 265-3221.

    Gran Tierra’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company’s Canadian securities regulatory filings are available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

    Contact Information

    For investor and media inquiries please contact:

    Gary Guidry
    President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ryan Ellson
    Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    +1-403-265-3221

    info@grantierra.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The 50th Anniversary of the Willowbrook Consent Decree

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Willowbrook Consent Decree. Hosted by Governor Hochul’s Chief Disability Officer, the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, the College of Staten Island and the Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council, today’s event consisted of a conversation on promising goals for a future of full community inclusion and acceptance. The event, dubbed “The Evolution of Inclusion 1975 – 2025,” celebrated New York’s rich history as the birthplace of deinstitutionalization and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities.

    “We will never forget the mistakes of the past when children with developmental disabilities were shuttered away from their loved ones because society was unaccepting and uninformed,” Governor Hochul said. “Today, we celebrate the results of positive change, and the proposal included in my Executive Budget is just one example of our commitment to expanding opportunity and support to all New Yorkers.”

    A 1972 class action lawsuit brought by parent activists alleging that their children’s constitutional rights were being violated at the Willowbrook State School was the catalyst for the trailblazing Willowbrook Consent Judgment in 1975. The Willowbrook Consent Decree, one of the first official actions taken by Governor Hugh Carey, committed New York to providing opportunities for community living for people with developmental disabilities and eventually led to the shuttering of the Willowbrook State School in 1987 and 19 additional institutions across New York State in favor of community residences.

    In the 1970s, Jane Kurtin of the Staten Island Advance wrote groundbreaking stories about the deplorable conditions, administrative failures, and horrendous treatment of the people living at Willowbrook in her years long series of reporting. In 1972, Kurtin’s coverage garnered the interest of Geraldo Rivera who was an investigative reporter for WABC-TV at the time. Rivera’s television reporting of the story led to a national outcry over the quality of care and lack of rights for people with developmental disabilities.

    The televised Willowbrook exposé shifted the way American society viewed and interacted with people with developmental disabilities, which brought changes to New York’s system to become more focused on person-centered services and community residential opportunities.

    Before the story became widely known through the press, the parents of the children of Willowbrook took up the long and unwavering fight of demanding more for their loved ones and advocating on their behalf to be included in society. One of those parents was Mrs. Willie Mae Goodman, whose daughter Margaret lived at Willowbrook. Mrs. Goodman was honored at today’s event with the first annual Willie Mae Goodman Award for Family Advocacy, which will annually be awarded to a family advocate every year in honor of Mrs. Goodman’s fierce advocacy for her daughter and all children with a developmental disability.

    An award was also presented today to Bernard Carabello, who famously and courageously let Geraldo Rivera and his news camera into the Willowbrook State School to expose the atrocities taking place. The Bernard Carabello Self-Advocacy Award will annually be awarded henceforth in honor of Bernard’s incredible advocacy and selflessness.

    New York State Chief Disability Officer Kim Hill Ridley said, “When the world’s eyes were opened to the horrifying accounts of abuse and neglect, the residents of Willowbrook and their families used their voices to demand change. That demand 50 years ago made Willowbrook become the birthplace of deinstitutionalization, and the signing of the Willowbrook Consent Decree sparked the national Disability Rights Movement, which forever changed the way that people see and treat people with disabilities. In the 50 years since, we have transformed from a system of institutionalization to a state where people with disabilities live, work, and thrive in their communities.”

    New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Acting Commissioner Willow Baer said, “The brave advocacy of people with developmental disabilities and their families, people like Bernard Carabello, Mrs. Willie Mae Goodman, Jose Rivera, and countless others, brought about the change that led to the formation of the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, tasked with ensuring that people get the supports and services they need to live a rich and fulfilling life. Their legacy continues in today’s self-advocates who hold us accountable to always do better, and to recognize and support the contributions that people with developmental disabilities bring to our communities. I am incredibly honored and humbled to be celebrating this historic milestone today with the people who made it possible.”

    State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton said, “Today, we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Willowbrook Consent Decree with Governor Hochul and OPWDD. This milestone reminds us of the progress we’ve made since the closure of Willowbrook. As a member of the NYS Senate Disabilities Committee, I am committed to carrying this legacy forward by continuing to fight for people with developmental disabilities.”

    Assemblymember Charles Fall said, “We mark 50 years since the Willowbrook decree not just with remembrance—but with purpose. There’s still more to do to uphold the rights and dignity of every person with a developmental disability. I’m proud to honor the resilience of those who transformed tragedy into lasting change.”

    Assemblymember Sam Pirozzolo said, “The legacy of Willowbrook is a solemn reminder of the importance of vigilance, compassion, and justice for our most vulnerable citizens. We must never forget the painful past, but we must also honor the courage of the families, advocates, and survivors who stood up and demanded change. As we commemorate this landmark in disability rights, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, dignity, and the full participation of every New Yorker in community life.”

    New York City Councilmember David Carr said, “The 50th Anniversary of the Willowbrook Consent Degree is both a joyous celebration and solemn reminder of our history. This decree was a massive step in the right direction. We have made leaps and bounds since the time of the Consent Decree and the closure of Willowbrook that followed from it, but we still have more work to do. Protecting the rights of those with disabilities and adhering to our duty in caring for our fellow citizens is something that will always be relevant. I hope this anniversary will serve to remind people of this fact and be a catalyst for public awareness of the needs, rights, and humanity of people with disabilities.”

    Richmond County District Attorney Michael E. McMahon said, “Our children are our most precious resource, the heartbeat of our future. It is our duty, whenever and wherever, to safeguard their well-being. The landmark consent decree that we celebrate on this 50th anniversary stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to justice and protection, ensuring that every child is given the safety and security that they deserve. We thank Governor Hochul for acknowledging this meaningful commemoration and for her extraordinary investment in the Institute for Basic Research Campus which will make certain that the history of Willowbrook, its class members, and the parents and activists who successfully advocated for deinstitutionalization and the rights of people with developmental disabilities are never forgotten.”

    Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella said, “While the Willowbrook State School was a tragic and dark chapter in Staten Island history, it is important to recognize the tireless work of the many regular folks, advocates and elected officials who closed it. And, while there is still work to be done, we have come a long way in our treatment and acceptance of people with disabilities. We join Governor Hochul in commemorating the closure of the Willowbrook State School, because it reminds us of the chief responsibility of government; to protect all good people.”

    Staten Island Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Mike Cusick said, “The Willowbrook Consent Decree was a defining moment in Staten Island and New York’s history, driven by the courage of individuals, families, and advocates who demanded justice for people with developmental disabilities. 50 years later, we’re grateful to Governor Hochul for continuing to honor that legacy with meaningful investment in inclusive communities, ensuring every New Yorker has the opportunity to live with dignity and respect. Here on Staten Island, we will always remember Willowbrook not only for its past, but for the progress it sparked across our state.”

    Governor Hochul’s 2025-2026 Executive Budget Proposal included the creation of the Willowbrook Center for Learning, which would be built as part of a $75 million investment in the Institute for Basic Research Campus so that the history of Willowbrook and deinstitutionalization will be forever shared and acknowledged. The historic investment includes the renovation of “Building 29,” an abandoned building on the former Willowbrook State School grounds, into a Center for Learning to honor the rich history and significance of the closure of Willowbrook.

    In 1950, even prior to the opening of the Willowbrook State School, parents of children with developmental disabilities who wanted more for their children came together and formed The Arc New York, now the largest nonprofit in New York State providing support, services, and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities. The Arc New York, which recently celebrated its 75th Anniversary, today announced the gift of their Willowbrook archives to the College of Staten Island. Built on the location of the former Willowbrook State School, the College of Staten Island has remained a steward of its artifacts dating back to the opening that are part of the college’s Willowbrook Documentation Project.

    The City University of New York Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said, “CUNY is proud to mark the 50th anniversary of a pivotal moment in the history of disability rights and an occasion to celebrate how far we have come as a society in recognizing the dignity and advancing the rights of all people with disabilities, but also to take stock of how much more we still must do. This is a fight for equity and inclusivity that goes to the core of our mission and which our students, faculty and staff – at the College of Staten Island and across our University – champion every day.”

    The Arc New York CEO Erik Geizer said, “The Arc New York Historic Archives collection contains 75 years of original materials documenting the history of the disability rights movement, the power of advocacy, and the transformation from institutionalization to integrated community support. Giving them a permanent home at the College of Staten Island will expand public access to this important history and inform future progress for people with disabilities.”

    The College of Staten Island President Timothy G. Lynch said, “The Willowbrook Consent Decree marked a turning point in the history of disability rights, not just in New York but across the country. As we commemorate its 50th anniversary, we honor the courage of self-advocates, families, and journalists who exposed injustice and demanded better. Their actions reshaped our understanding of inclusion, dignity, and community. At the College of Staten Island, we are proud to stand on the very ground where this history unfolded, and we are deeply honored to preserve it. We are excited to accept and expand our campus archives with new materials related to the Willowbrook State School, ensuring that this vital history continues to be studied, remembered, and appreciated by future generations.”

    College of Staten Island President Tim Lynch said, “The Willowbrook Consent Decree marked a turning point in the history of disability rights, not just in New York but across the country. As we commemorate its 50th anniversary, we honor the courage of self-advocates, families, and journalists who exposed injustice and demanded better. Their actions reshaped our understanding of inclusion, dignity, and community. At the College of Staten Island, we are proud to stand on the very ground where this history unfolded, and we are deeply honored to preserve it. We are excited to accept and expand our campus archives with new materials related to the Willowbrook State School, ensuring that this vital history continues to be studied, remembered, and appreciated by future generations.”

    About Willowbrook
    Willowbrook State School was the largest of its kind in the nation for people with developmental disabilities. During the 1950s through the 1970s, Willowbrook became synonymous with scandal and controversy for deplorable conditions and a now infamous 20-year medical study wherein children were intentionally infected with hepatitis in order to identify possible cures. Willowbrook’s overcrowding, medical trials, and increasingly questionable practices led to Senator Robert F. Kennedy referring to the school as “a snake pit.” In 1975, a settlement, which became known as the Willowbrook injunction, was reached mandating reform. In 1993, the state signed a permanent injunction solidifying services, rights and protections for former Willowbrook class members. This led to a national movement to end the institutionalization of people with developmental disabilities. Today, the permanent injunction is overseen by the Willowbrook Consumer Advisory Board, a seven-member board that provides necessary and appropriate representation and advocacy services on an individual basis for all Willowbrook class members as long as any class member lives.

    Over the years, Willowbrook has been remembered and memorialized through the Willowbrook Mile, a path of historical markers located on the College of Staten Island campus. The documentary “Willowbrook: The Path Forward” is a New York Emmy-winning look at the importance of lessons learned, positive change that resulted, and the legacy of Willowbrook.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on Executive Order Ending Federal Funding for NPR and PBS

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s executive order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to end federal funding for America’s two biggest public broadcasters, NPR and PBS:

    “In the dark of night, President Trump issued an unlawful executive order that will strip New Mexicans of vital access to public programming that educates, entertains, and keeps us safe. For decades, NPR and PBS have delivered news, entertainment, and much more to New Mexicans, especially in rural and Tribal communities. Public media, like NPR, PBS, and their local affiliates, provide critical information to New Mexicans in all corners of the state — including during disasters and emergencies when our rural communities rely on public media the most.

    “This illegal executive order is an attempt by President Trump to strip New Mexicans of vital public services that thousands rely on day-to-day. The President is disregarding CPB’s authority and working to prevent New Mexicans from accessing free news, educational programming, and emergency alerts. Defunding NPR and PBS will leave New Mexicans in the dark when they need information the most.”

    Senator Luján has long supported strengthening public media. In February, Senator Luján wrote to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr and Commissioner Nathan Simington condemning actions taken by the FCC under the Trump administration demonstrating that the FCC is weaponizing its authority over broadcasters and public media for political purposes. In March, Senator Luján introduced the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act, legislation that would prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from revoking broadcast licenses or taking action against broadcasters based on the viewpoints they broadcast.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Fire In The Hole 💥

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    —————
    @marineswith the @MarineForcesReservefire a FGM-148 Javelin at @fortmccoy. #DYK The blast radius for the Javelin is 2,500 meters, but it can be tested at up to 4,750 meters. #military #marines #usa

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Total Wireless levels up prepaid market with limited-time switch offer for two lines and kicks off its new “Save 50% Guaranteed” campaign

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Total Wireless levels up prepaid market with limited-time switch offer for two lines and kicks off its new “Save 50% Guaranteed” campaign

    NEW YORK – Total Wireless, a leading provider of affordable and flexible wireless plans covered by the Verizon 5G network, today announced a major new limited-time offer: customers who switch from Metro or Cricket can get two Total 5G Unlimited lines with access to 5G Ultra Wideband, Verizon’s fastest network, for just $65 per month – a savings of $20 per month! – two free 5G phones, and a 5-year price guarantee.

    At a time when businesses are raising prices and financial uncertainty is growing, with nearly 65% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck, Total Wireless is stepping up to provide real savings when customers need it most. Powered by Verizon’s award-winning network, Total Wireless helps customers stay connected without the high price tag.

    Limited-Time Switch Offer Details:

    • New customers switching from Metro or Cricket can get two lines on the Total 5G Unlimited plan for just $65/month.
    • Includes two free 5G phones.
    • Backed by a 5-year price guarantee.
    • Offer available exclusively in Total Wireless stores.

    In addition to this new limited-time offer, Total Wireless launched a new campaign that highlights our 50% savings for Metro and Cricket switchers: new customers on a single line who bring their own unlocked device and switch from a comparable Metro or Cricket unlimited plan will save 50% off.

    Save 50% vs. Metro and Cricket. Guaranteed Details:

    • The Total 5G Unlimited plan is discounted 50% to $25 per month for a single line with Auto Pay (Auto Pay discount applies in the 2nd month with the first month priced at $30) when you bring the phone and number you love. Taxes and fees included.
    • The plan includes unlimited talk, text, and data, access to Verizon’s 4G LTE and 5G networks, and mobile hotspot.
    • Customers can enjoy international calling and texting, and after 12 monthly payments, they receive $200 towards their next 5G phone. This offer is guaranteed for 5 years and available to new customers who activate a compatible, unlocked device.

    “There’s a lot of noise from some other wireless brands, but when you look at the facts, Total Wireless outshines the competition at every turn – with great service, great savings, and a great experience,” said David Kim, Chief Revenue Officer at Verizon Value. “With our awesome new limited-time offer and guaranteed 50% savings for single line switchers who bring their own device, we’re proving that customers don’t have to sacrifice quality to get unbeatable value. In today’s economy, that’s more important than ever.”

    Total Wireless stands out in the crowded wireless market by offering unparalleled savings and flexibility. Unlike Metro and Cricket, Total Wireless leverages the power of the Verizon 5G network to ensure top-tier coverage and reliability at an unbeatable price. This means customers can enjoy high speeds and reliable connectivity without the premium price tag of other providers.

     For more information go to www.totalwireless.com or stop by a Total Wireless store near you.

    About Total Wireless

    Total Wireless is a fast-growing, no-contract wireless provider covered by the Verizon 5G network, with over 1,000 exclusive stores across the country, and counting. On a mission to raise the bar in prepaid wireless, Total Wireless disrupts the status quo by offering more value than any other no-contract provider. Total Wireless offers plans with unlimited data and access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra-Wideband network, prices guaranteed for five years (taxes and fees included), select free 5G phones with qualifying purchase plans, and more.

    Total Wireless is part of the Verizon Value portfolio of prepaid brands, which includes Straight Talk, Visible, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, SafeLink, Walmart Family Mobile, and Verizon Prepaid. Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) is one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products and services.

    For more information on Total Wireless, visit one of its exclusive storefronts across the country, or check out Totalwireless.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Benin: Wave of attacks on press freedom highlights urgent need to reform Digital Code

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Benin authorities’ recent wave of sanctions against independent media outlets highlights the urgent need to protect press freedom in the country, said Amnesty International, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Internet Without Borders. The call comes as Benin’s parliament debates revisions to the Digital Code – legislation critical to the protection of a free press and freedom of expression.

    Since the beginning of the year, the High Authority for Audiovisual and Communications (Haute Autorité de l’Audiovisuel et de la Communication – HAAC) has suspended two newspapers, three news websites and a TikTok news account “until further notice.” These suspensions are still in force.

    The Digital Code contains provisions that allow attacks on freedom of expression. 

    Dieudonné Dagbéto, Executive Director of Amnesty International Benin

    “In recent months, Benin’s authorities have been silencing media outlets, often after they carried coverage critical of the government or the HAAC. The Digital Code contains provisions that allow the attacks on freedom of expression seen in recent months. Its revision is an opportunity to reverse this worrying trend and further protect press freedom,” said Dieudonné Dagbéto, Executive Director of Amnesty International Benin.

    On 12 March, the news website Bénin Web TV was suspended and the press card of its managing director withdrawn. The HAAC accused the media outlet of publishing two articles containing inaccurate information, one concerning alleged errors in the budget request submitted by the HAAC to Parliament, the other concerning the request for a company car by the institution’s president.

    On 21 January, the newspaper Le Patriote and its website were similarly sanctioned after the publication of an editorial pointing out ‘the government’s ineffective strategy’ during an attack on a military position in the border zone between Burkina Faso and Niger.

    Le Patriote’s editor told Amnesty International: “My newspaper was one of the few that gave a voice to all sides. I’m sure that, given the current context, the media will no longer take the risk of dealing with information on the security situation other than that which comes from the government or the authorities in charge of security.”

    HAAC’s sanctions threaten the economic survival of the media and their employees.

    Sadibou Marong, Director of Reporters Without Borders’ Sub Saharan Africa bureau

    “None of the legitimate grounds for restriction of the freedom of expression set out in international law are invoked in these cases of censorship. HAAC’s sanctions also threaten the economic survival of the media and their employees. This is an intolerable interference with press freedom,” said Sadibou Marong, Director of Reporters Without Borders’ Sub Saharan Africa bureau.

    A dozen journalists who have worked for Le Patriote are now unemployed, according to its managing editor. Bénin Web TV is already suffering a loss of income following the withdrawal of certain advertisers, according to a letter seen by Amnesty International.

    The recent wave of sanctions follows a series of similar curbs in 2023 and 2024.

    In February 2024, the press group La Gazette du Golfe laid off all its employees following the HAAC’s suspension of the group’s activities in 2023.

    In January 2024, news websites Crystal News, Reporter Médias Monde, Les Pharaons and the TikTok news account Madame Actu were also suspended. The HAAC justified the decision by saying that these were “unauthorized websites” that had been “the subject of numerous complaints” and were responsible for making “unfounded allegations” and disseminating “media content without prior HAAC authorization”. The communique did not specify which content was problematic.

    These suspensions contravene the standards established by the UN Human Rights Committee, which clearly state that blanket bans on the operation of certain sites and systems are not compatible with the right to freedom of expression, nor is the granting of licences by the state to authorize the work of journalists as provided by Beninese law.

    Qemal Affagnon, Regional Coordinator for West Africa at Internet Without Borders, said: “The HAAC relies on the current Digital Code to punish all those who commit ‘criminal acts’. The examination of a bill amending this Code is an opportunity to implement the recommendations accepted by the government in 2023 during the 4th cycle of the Universal Periodic Review in line with the consultative modification work carried out with Beninese MPs by Internet Sans Frontières. It is essential to guaranteeing freedom of expression and HAAC’s independence.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What is the stupidest thing a recent president has said? It may depend on what your definition of ‘is’ is

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chris Lamb, Professor of Journalism, Indiana University

    Lots of presidents have said things they regret. Or most of them have. Carol Yepes/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump was asked during a press conference on April 30, 2025, about the possible impact of his tariff policies and trade war with China.

    Trump answered that American children should prepare to make sacrifices at Christmas.

    “Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls, you know,” he said, “and maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more than they would normally.”

    The New York Times reported that Trump appeared to be telling kids they would have to manage with fewer toys this year for the sake of his economic agenda.

    Jane Mayer, a reporter with The New Yorker, called it “Trump’s Marie Antoinette moment.”

    This was not the first − or last − time Trump said something that left many Americans with mouths open and heads shaking.

    Hours after his Marie Antoinette moment, Trump, whose first 100 days back in office have been characterized as chaotic and damaging to democracy, was asked during a phone interview at a town-hall broadcast on NewsNation what the biggest mistake he’d made thus far in his second presidency.

    “I don’t really believe I’ve made any mistakes,” Trump replied.

    The audience, representing a cross section of Americans, burst out laughing.

    Trump’s gaffes aren’t just part of his presidency; gaffes are part of the storied tradition of the American presidency. Some of those comments have clung to presidents and even affected history.

    Here are examples from each president over the past 50 years or so of statements that at least some of them were embarrassed by or came to regret. Each was made when the president was serving in the White House. The quotes are organized chronologically.

    Donald Trump auditions for Grinch-who-stole-Christmas role.

    Richard Nixon is a law-abiding guy

    On Nov. 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, in the midst of the Watergate scandal that would end his presidency, defended himself against charges of corruption.

    “People have got to know whether or not their president is a crook,” Nixon said. “Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.”

    Instead of quelling the scandal, as Nixon hoped, his words produced the opposite reaction. He resigned from the presidency nine months later in August 1974.

    Gerald Ford forgets the Cold War

    Gerald Ford, Nixon’s vice president who became president after Nixon’s resignation, subsequently ran for election in 1976.

    During one of his televised debates against Democratic nominee Jimmy Carter, Ford inexplicably claimed the Soviet Union did not control Eastern Europe.

    “There is no Soviet domination of Eastern Europe,” Ford said, “and there never will be under a Ford administration.”

    To which the moderator, New York Times editor May Frankel, said, “I’m sorry, what?”

    Ford’s remark was so outrageously incorrect that it may have contributed to his defeat in the tight presidential election.

    Gerald Ford says it’s really a Warm, not Cold, War.

    Jimmy Carter gets advice from his teen

    Carter defeated Ford and was elected in 1976. He ran for reelection against Republican nominee Ronald Reagan in 1980. During one of their debates, Carter said he sought the advice of his 13-year-old daughter, Amy, on what was the most important issue facing America.

    “She said she thought it was nuclear weaponry,” Carter said, “and the control of nuclear arms.”

    Carter tried to show that arms control was a subject that had great resonance to even 13-year-olds. Instead, it left viewers puzzled why he had inserted his daughter into the debate. A wire service story at the time summarized the response by saying that reporters covering the debate winced and others groaned.

    Jimmy Carter has a smart 13-year-old daughter.

    Ronald Reagan attacks Russia

    Reagan, a former television and movie actor who defeated Carter in the 1980 presidential election, was known as “the Great Communicator” for his eloquence.

    A well-known anti-Communist, Reagan was not always careful about what he said.

    Before a speech on Aug. 11, 1984, Reagan joked during a sound check, “I’ve signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We begin bombing in five minutes.”

    The joke on the open mic, which was not broadcast live but leaked later, resulted in a Soviet red alert − and temporarily moved the U.S. and Soviet Union toward war.

    George H.W. Bush eats word salad

    Reagan’s successor, his vice president, George H.W. Bush, by comparison was no great communicator. His words came out of his mouth and appeared to go in separate ways.

    “I have opinions of my own, strong opinions,” Bush said, “but I don’t always agree with them.”

    Bill Clinton is or isn’t, maybe

    Democrat Bill Clinton defeated George H.W. Bush in the 1992 presidential election.

    Clinton’s presidency was dogged with accusations of unethical behavior and extramarital affairs. Clinton, in testimony before a grand jury investigating his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky, was asked whether he was lying when he told aides that “there’s nothing going on” between him and Lewinsky.

    “It depends on what the meaning of the word ‘is’ is,” Clinton responded. “If the − if he − if ‘is’ means is and never has been, that is not − that is one thing.”

    Slate magazine said that this response may have been the “defining moment” of his presidency and, in doing so, captured his contribution to semantics. As Time magazine pointed out,
    “Until then, America hadn’t been sure there was more than one definition of ‘is.’”

    George W. Bush’s shame

    George W. Bush, the son of George H.W. Bush, succeeded Clinton in the White House. Americans learned that Bush had more in common with his father than just the same last name.

    “There’s an old saying in Tennessee − I know it’s in Texas,” Bush said, “probably in Tennessee, that says, fool me once, shame on − shame on you. Fool me − you can’t get fooled again.”

    Barack Obama strikes out

    Barack Obama, like Reagan, was known for his sense of humor. And like Reagan, Obama learned that not everything was a joking matter.

    While appearing on “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno in 2009, Obama said he had improved his bowling by practicing at the White House bowling alley. He told Leno he had bowled a pedestrian score of 129, provoking a sarcastic response from Leno.

    Obama then made the following joke: “It’s like the Special Olympics or something.”

    Obama quickly apologized to the Special Olympics, the athletic competition for people with intellectual disabilities.

    Obama made a bad joke about the Special Olympics during an interview with Jay Leno; he quickly apologized for it.
    Mandel Ngan / AFP/Getty Images

    Joe Biden’s bad day

    Trump was first elected president in 2016 but was defeated by Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Trump and Biden faced each other again in 2024.

    During a television debate on June 27, 2024, CNN anchor Jake Tapper asked Biden why voters should trust him to solve the immigration crisis. Biden said he changed a law that allowed Trump and his administration to separate immigrant families and put children in cages.

    Biden’s train of thought then jumped the tracks.

    “And I’m going to continue to move until we get the total ban on the − the total initiative relative to what we’re going to do with more Border Patrol and more asylum officers,” Biden said.

    “I really don’t know what he said at the end of that sentence,” Trump said, “and I don’t think he did, either.”

    The same could be said for much of what Biden said during the debate.

    Biden withdrew from the presidential race three weeks after his poor debate performance.

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

    – ref. What is the stupidest thing a recent president has said? It may depend on what your definition of ‘is’ is – https://theconversation.com/what-is-the-stupidest-thing-a-recent-president-has-said-it-may-depend-on-what-your-definition-of-is-is-255755

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pan-Indian Cinema is Not a Myth; Film Industry Veterans Emphasize Unity in Indian Cinema

    Source: Government of India

    Pan-Indian Cinema is Not a Myth; Film Industry Veterans Emphasize Unity in Indian Cinema

    Anupam Kher Highlights Shifting Cinema Consumption Trends Post-COVID

    When you honour our shared heritage, our songs, our stories, our soil, your film becomes Indian cinema: Khushboo Sundar

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:57PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    The World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit, WAVES 2025, being held at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, hosted an inspiring panel discussion titled “Pan-Indian Cinema: Myth or Momentum.” Moderated by Sh. Naman Ramachandran, the session brought together four distinguished personalities from the Indian film industry, Sh. Nagarjuna, Sh. Anupam Kher, Sh. Karthi, and Ms. Khushboo Sundar, for an engaging conversation.

    Ms. Khushboo Sundar reminded the audience that cinema’s power lies in its emotional resonance. She emphasized that there should be no perceived divide between Bollywood and regional film industries, as Indian films are created with the intent of resonating with all Indians. “When you honour our shared heritage, our songs, our stories, our soil, your film stops being regional or national, it becomes Indian cinema and that is what makes everything fall into place,” she observed.

    Sh. Nagarjuna echoed this sentiment by celebrating the rich cultural tapestry that weaves together India’s filmmaking traditions. He spoke of the myriad languages, customs and landscapes that inspire storytellers, and he reminded attendees that pride in one’s roots does not constrain creativity, it liberates it and that is the true essence of Indian cinema.

    Sh. Anupam Kher spoke about how COVID-19 pandemic changed the behavior of cinema consumption. He recounted how audiences started consuming films from different sources and it is not about cinema from different regions, but cinema from India alone. He also stressed about one must be true and honest in their craftsmanship, “Whether you are broadcasting a mythic saga on the big screen or streaming a slice-of-life drama, honesty in storytelling is your greatest ally. Audiences may crave spectacle, but they will always applaud sincerity and that is what works in films.”

    Further adding to this, Sh. Karthi reflected on the enduring appetite for larger-than-life experiences. He expressed that while audiences today have access to diverse content, they still flock to theatres for the magic of song-and-dance extravaganzas and heroic epics.

    Throughout the discussion, the panelists spoke about the importance of evolving beyond the notion of “regional” films and embracing the idea of Indian films. They emphasized on the importance of emotions, sincerity and that Indian cinema’s true strength lies not in divisions, but in unity, rooted in our soil, and it is that momentum that will carry Indian cinema forward.

     

    For official updates on realtime, please follow us: 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kiran Mazumdar Shaw charts India’s creative future at WAVES, says startups should think beyond films and build brands that create global waves

    Source: Government of India

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw charts India’s creative future at WAVES, says startups should think beyond films and build brands that create global waves

    It’s time for India to create new stories that blend tradition and technology: Shaw

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 8:17PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    Global business leader and Biocon Founder Kiran Mazumdar Shaw on Friday said that the Indian Startups involved in creative content sector should think beyond films and build brands, ecosystems, and intellectual property that create global waves. She was talking at an In Conversation session on the second day of the inaugural edition of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai.

    Kicking off the discussion with Maneet Ahuja, Editor-at-Large at Forbes, on the theme “India’s Innovation Renaissance: The Next Decade of Global-First Startups,” Mazumdar Shaw spoke about the global potential of Indian narratives. Referring to the Ramayana, she said, “It’s time for India to create new stories that blend tradition and technology. Just as George Lucas drew inspiration from Indian epics for Star Wars, we can use technology to transform our cultural heritage into global franchises.”

    Touching on India’s demographic and digital strengths, she said, “With over a billion smartphones and a tech-savvy Gen Z, India is poised for global innovation. But like any blockbuster, success starts small — with an idea, strategy, and relentless focus.” She drew parallels with her own journey of starting Biocon in a garage and building it into a global biotech force.

    Talking about the India’s creative economy, she said that those in the filed should focus on the growth of the so-called Orange Economy which has immense potential. “The media and entertainment sector contributes 20 billion dollar to the GDP today. We must aim for a 100 billion dollar, and eventually, for a 1 Trillion dollar Orange Economy by 2047, which will resonate with the dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Shaw said.

    Empowering Creators and Startups

    Responding to questions on India’s creative edge, Shaw highlighted the convergence of AR, VR, and immersive experiences as key frontiers. “The next unicorns won’t just be apps — they’ll be creators who understand IP, tech, and immersive storytelling,” she noted. Citing examples like Naatu Naatu song in the movie RRR, she said that Indian creativity must go beyond diaspora appeal. “It must become globally relevant,” she added.

    She urged startups to embrace originality and persistence: “Every great idea starts small. What matters is how far you take it. Failure is part of the journey.”

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Create in India Challenge Season 1: Shaping India’s Creative Future

    Source: Government of India

    Create in India Challenge Season 1: Shaping India’s Creative Future

    WAVES 2025 honours winners of 32 creative challenges under Create in India Challenge; over 750 finalists from 60+ countries converge to celebrate innovation and talent

    “The journey has just begun, and we are committed to empowering India’s creative minds with initiatives like the Indian Institute of Creative Technology:” Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

    “This platform is a beautiful example of how young minds are fusing creativity with technology:” MoS Dr. L. Murugan

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 8:08PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    The much-anticipated Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season 1, an initiative that has captured the imagination of creators across the globe, culminated in a spectacular ceremony at WAVES 2025, marking a significant milestone for India’s creative landscape. This monumental event honoured the winners of 32 distinct challenges, spanning every domain of the media and entertainment industry, from animation, gaming, and filmmaking to AI, music, and digital art.

    Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the young creators and visionaries, calling this a historic moment. “For the first time, an award is being given purely for creativity. This journey has only just begun. With this initiative, you are stepping into a world of new opportunities. We are also launching the Indian Institute of Creative Technology like an IIT, but for training in creativity, to build a strong foundation for innovation and expression.”

    Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, congratulated the participants, highlighting the dynamic energy and technological prowess of the youth. “Best wishes to all of you. This platform is a beautiful example of how young minds are fusing creativity with technology. It also reflects the strength of Nari Shakti and the future of Indian content creation,” he remarked.

    Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, reflected on CIC’s evolution. “When we began in August, there were 25 challenges across the M&E spectrum.  After Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke about CIC in Mann Ki Baat in September, the participation surged. The number of challenges grew to 32. We received nearly one lakh registration. Today, 750 finalists are here and each of them is a winner,” said Shri Jaju.

    The Create in India Challenge (CIC) was launched to provide a global platform for emerging talent and to showcase the vibrant creativity of young minds. The challenges spanned a wide range of categories, giving creators the opportunity to explore and push boundaries across various forms of media. From the Anime Challenge to the AI Film Making Competition, XR Creator Hackathon, each category encouraged innovative expression, bringing together creators, technologists, and storytellers from around the world.

    CIC has garnered significant attention, both domestically and internationally. With entries pouring in from over 60 countries, including more than 1,100 international participants, CIC has proven to be a global success. The response underlined the ever-growing demand for opportunities to engage with creative technologies and develop new forms of media that are both innovative and influential.

    The prestigious awards were presented by a stellar lineup of industry legends, including Aamir Khan, Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Akkineni Nagarjuna, Vikrant Massey, Prasoon Joshi, and Aroon Purie, alongside other dignitaries and officials.

    The 32 challenges were conducted in collaboration with leading industry bodies, allowing the CIC to reach its full potential by bringing together a wide array of creative disciplines, technology-driven projects, and future-ready content.

    This initiative served as a launchpad for the next generation of creators who are redefining India’s position in the global entertainment and technology ecosystem. It stands as a testament to the importance of fostering homegrown talent and celebrating innovative content creation across various media formats.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 brings together industry stalwarts to discuss Indian cinema’s international expansion

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025 brings together industry stalwarts to discuss Indian cinema’s international expansion

    This is the first time I’ve seen a government taking such interest in our industry: Aamir Khan

    WAVES is not just a dialogue—it’s a bridge to policy. It’s a promising start: Aamir Khan

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 8:42PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    Indian movie-makers and producers need to focus on creating distribution channels in different countries to facilitate expansion of Indian film viewership, said renowned Actor Aamir Khan at a panel discussion titled ‘Studios of the Future: Putting India on World Studio Map’. The discussion was held at Jio World centre on Friday, on the second day of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025.

    The session, moderated by film critic Mayank Shekhar brought together a stellar lineup of film industry stalwarts, including producer Ritesh Sidhwani, Namit Malhotra of Prime Focus Limited, Film Producer Dinesh Vijan, PVR Cinemas’ Ajay Bijli, and renowned American producer Charles Roven.

    Talking about the rich potential of Indian films, Aamir Khan emphasised on the crucial need to think global from the beginning.

    On the OTT debate, Aamir pointed how the narrow window between theatrical and OTT releases discourages theatre viewership.

    Charles Roven, the producer of global blockbuster, Oppenheimer, emphasized on the enduring strength of theatrical cinema. He stated, “Despite the rise of TV and OTT platforms, the theatrical experience remains irreplaceable.”

    Charles Roven advised Indian studios to shift from a domestic-only focus and to approach projects with international reach in mind.

    Dinesh Vijan talked about the importance of authentic storytelling and collaborations with international studios. “It’s not just about budgets,” he said. “Smaller cities are more cinema-friendly. But to go global, we must focus on quality content and cross-border partnerships.”

    Namit Malhotra spoke about the pivotal role of technology, particularly the use of AI, in enhancing storytelling and helping Indian talent reach global audiences.

    Ritesh Sidhwani pointed out the expanding opportunities through OTT platforms. “OTT has given Indian content global visibility,” he noted. “It allows us to experiment with format and narrative.”

    Ajay Bijli raised concerns about declining theatre footfalls post-COVID. He stressed the importance of managing release windows wisely to ensure monetization through both theatrical and digital platforms.

    Dinesh Vijan also emphasized that technology could help overcome language barriers through authentic lip-sync translations, enabling cultural specificity while reaching wider audiences.

    The panel concluded with a discussion on how the government can support this transition. On WAVE summit, Aamir Khan said: “This is the first time I’ve seen a government taking such interest in our industry. WAVES is not just a dialogue—it’s a bridge to policy. It’s a promising start. I am sure our discussions will transform into policies,” the actor said.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Stories that touch hearts Around the World” – WAVES 2025 propels a global Dialogue on the Future of Storytelling

    Source: Government of India

    “Stories that touch hearts Around the World” – WAVES 2025 propels a global Dialogue on the Future of Storytelling

    Streaming, Cinema and Literature intersect at WAVES 2025

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 7:40PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    The second day of the maiden WAVES 2025 Summit featured an exceptional lineup of speakers in the Panel discussion on “Stories that touch hearts around the World”: Kaitlin Yarnall, Chief Storytelling Officer at National Geographic Society; Justin Warbrooke, EVP and Head of Corporate Development at The Walt Disney Company; Kelly Day, Vice President of International at Amazon Prime Video; Phil Hardman, Executive Vice President & General Manager of BBC Studios Asia; Rajkumar Hirani, one of India’s most celebrated film directors; and Amish Tripathi, bestselling author and diplomat, serving as the moderator.

    This session brought together visionary leaders and master storytellers from across the global media, entertainment, and literary landscapes to explore the transformative power of storytelling. From streaming platforms and broadcasting giants to cinema and literature, the panelists shared insights into how compelling narratives can transcend borders, shape cultures, and connect people worldwide. The discussion highlighted the strategic, creative, and emotional forces that drive global storytelling and its profound impact on perceptions, cultures, and social change.

    Kaitlin Yarnall (National Geographic) leads the strategic vision for creating powerful narratives that intertwine science, exploration, and visual storytelling to engage audiences worldwide. In the discussion, she emphasized the importance of authenticity and excellence in storytelling, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities involved in crafting content that truly resonates.

    Justin Warbrooke (Walt Disney) highlighted the Indian market as a top priority describing it as the world’s most populous and one of the fastest-growing media and entertainment markets. He also spoke about Disney’s collaborations with Indian companies, emphasizing how such partnerships are helping to bridge cultures and bring global audiences closer together through storytelling.

    Kelly Day (Amazon Prime Video) oversees global expansion and content strategy, working to bring diverse and locally resonant stories to audiences across continents. When asked how the platform determines which stories succeed financially in domestic and international markets, she clarified that there’s no set algorithm—success is rooted in strong storytelling, understanding local audiences, and choosing the right formats and genres.

    Phil Hardman (BBC Studio, Asia) leads the delivery of premium British content tailored for Asian audiences. He spoke about the enduring power of quality content, emphasizing the BBC’s core mission to educate and inform. He noted that their focus remains firmly on finding and sharing meaningful stories that align with that mission.

    Rajkumar Hirani, one of India’s most acclaimed film directors, Rajkumar Hirani is known for creating emotionally powerful and socially impactful films that resonate with audiences both in India and around the world. In the discussion, he highlighted that storytelling is inherently subjective—what resonates varies from person to person. He also shared his optimism about the potential of AI, calling it a valuable tool for filmmakers to enhance creativity and storytelling.

    Amish Tripathi, bestselling author and diplomat brings a unique fusion of mythological narrative and cultural depth to his storytelling. As moderator, he expertly guided the panel discussion, bridging diverse perspectives and emphasizing the universal power of stories to connect people across borders.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 discusses Accessibility in Media and Entertainment Sector: Experts Call for Inclusive Innovation and Policy Reform

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025 discusses Accessibility in Media and Entertainment Sector: Experts Call for Inclusive Innovation and Policy Reform

    Accessibility must be viewed not as a compliance checkbox but as a creative, ethical, and strategic imperative

    India is not just catching up; in many ways, we are leading the conversation on inclusive design: Brij Kothari

    We’re laying the groundwork for systemic change in how accessibility is implemented”: Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion, Google

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:20PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

    A thought-provoking panel discussion on “Accessibility Standards in the Media & Entertainment Sector” took center stage at WAVES 2025 today. The session brought together leading voices from academia, technology, policy, law, and journalism to explore how accessibility in content creation and distribution is evolving—and why it must be prioritized in India’s digital transformation journey.

    Opening the session, Prof. Brij Kothari of IIT Delhi emphasized India’s leadership in redefining accessibility. “India is not just catching up; in many ways, we are leading the conversation on inclusive design,” he stated. He said that the scale, diversity and accessibility are no longer just a solution for the visually or hearing impaired—it’s a universal design philosophy that benefits over 1.4 billion citizens.

    Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion for EMEA at Google, offered a global perspective, noting that while few countries like the U.S. have strong legislation, enforcement often falls short. He said that the European Accessibility Act is showing promise, and the next decade will be transformative. “We’re laying the groundwork now for systemic change in how accessibility is implemented”, he stated.

    Ashay Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, CEO of Kintel, highlighted the creative dimensions of accessibility in media. “Content is shaped through the unique lens of its creator, especially in film. To make content truly accessible, we must preserve that creative perspective—not dilute it with generic, automated solutions,” he explained. He emphasized on translating the director’s vision meaningfully for all audiences, including those with disabilities.

    Journalist Priti Salian spotlighted how technology and AI are accelerating accessibility efforts. “We’ve launched an AI-based channel featuring sign language interpreter avatars, and with advancements in audio description, what once took weeks now takes just 30 hours,” she said. She further stressed that technology alone isn’t enough as greater governmental support, public-private partnerships, and tendering mechanisms to scale accessible entertainment in India is required.

    Rahul Bajaj, lawyer and advocate for inclusive content across platforms such as theatre, OTT, and television emphasized the need for stronger legal frameworks and industry collaboration.

    Danish Mahajan, Founder of Radio Udaan called for stricter implementation of existing policies and increased representation of persons with disabilities in policymaking and regulatory bodies. “Representation ensures that accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s embedded in the system,” he noted.

    Together, the panel underscored a collective call to action: accessibility must be viewed not as a compliance checkbox but as a creative, ethical, and strategic imperative. As India stands at the crossroads of a content revolution, accessibility will be key to unlocking its full potential for every citizen.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Explores India’s Evolving Role in the Global Streaming and Film Economy

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES Explores India’s Evolving Role in the Global Streaming and Film Economy

    “For content to truly travel across borders, India must invest in studio infrastructure, production hubs, and technology-driven ecosystems”, says Shibasish Sarkar

    While taking creative risks is essential, content portfolios must be balanced and structured: Ektaa Kapoor

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:29PM by PIB Mumbai

     

    Mumbai | May 2, 2025

    The breakout session on “India’s Evolving Role in the Global Film and Streaming Economy” held at Mumbai today brought together key voices shaping the future of media and content, including Shri Vikram Tanna, CEO, Eros Now and Mzaalo (Xfinite Global); Shri Shibasish Sarkar, President, Producers Guild of India; Smt. Ektaa R. Kapoor, Joint Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms; and Ms. Shalini Govil Pai, Vice President & General Manager, Android TV, Google.

    Highlighting India’s deep-rooted tradition of storytelling, Shri Shibasish Sarkar spoke about the evolution of Indian cinema from a century ago to today’s dynamic streaming platforms. He stated that streaming has enabled Indian stories to find global audiences. However, for content to truly travel across borders, India must invest in infrastructure studios, production hubs, and technology-driven ecosystems. He also called for a focused, pan-India approach to institutional capital support.

    Underlining that compelling storytelling lies at the heart of global success, Ms. Ektaa R. Kapoor emphasised that the more relatable and emotionally resonant a story is, the more likely it is to connect with international audiences. She said that emotions such as pain, passion, and hope are universal. She noted that while taking creative risks is essential, content portfolios must be balanced and structured to de-risk investments and ensure long-term viability in a competitive ecosystem.

    Ms. Shalini Govil Pai stated that globalization is the most transformative trend in content today. She pointed out that technology has broken distribution barriers and made it easier to scale stories globally. Artificial Intelligence (AI), she added, is reshaping content creation by making production faster, more efficient, and data-driven. She urged Indian creators to leapfrog traditional methods and lead in the use of AI and technology to deliver stories that resonate across geographies. She noted that content discovery is becoming crucial, and the next wave of success will hinge on smart navigation, discoverability, and tech-led storytelling.

    Observing that India’s digital-first audience behaviour requires a shift in storytelling formats, Shri Vikram Tanna said that with shorter attention spans and increased mobile consumption, content must evolve to be voice-driven, opinion-led, and immersive. He outlined three key drivers for success: redefining technology, crafting experience-led narratives, and building IPs that command loyal fandom. He identified Generative AI as a game-changing opportunity for creators and platforms alike, offering new ways to engage, monetise, and personalise storytelling.

    The session concluded with a vision that India is well-positioned to become a global content powerhouse. With strategic investment in infrastructure, bold use of technology, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, India can lead the next phase of global media innovation.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India all set to emerge as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) capital of the world- Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

    Source: Government of India

    India all set to emerge as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) capital of the world- Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

    About 700 leading industry players and decision maker from the exhibition sector attend

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    With the construction of the state-of-the art exhibition and conference complexes in the country, India is all set to become MICE ((Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) capital of the world.

    “The new segments of tourism are getting developed, in which MICE tourism is the most important and is the fastest growing segment in the country. The exhibition and conference infrastructure we see across the nation including Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Jaipur and even small cities post G20 meet indicates that India is standing at the threshold of strong possibilities for this sector,” said Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union minister of Culture and Tourism, while inaugurating a Two-day Seminar on India: The land of Exponential Growth organised by the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) , the apex national body of exhibition industry in the country.

    “The government and the private exhibition industry has to work together to make India a centre of MICE tourism. Several events which are happening globally can be calendarized and brought here in India. Besides being a destination India, the country is also becoming a big Exhibition and conference hub with planned expansion in road, aviation and railway sectors along with expansion of the conference and exhibition sector, the country has a great future for economic growth,” Shekhawat said.

    “After 2014, India has shown a tremendous growth curve in infrastructure given the boom in infrastructure, be it the construction of roads over 1,50,000 km, new railway stations, semi high-speed trains, inland waterways and more than 150 operational airports. All of these have contributed to India’s prowess with regards to the MICE events (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). The confidence also built following India’s hosting of G20 nations, the entire world is looking at India in awe and curiosity. In times to come, India will emerge as the MICE capital of the world.” Said Mr Shekhawat.

    “The IEIA Open Seminar and Exhibition Services Expo is the annual international conclave of the Indian Exhibition Industry attended by the captains of the industry from all regions of the country and overseas. The event acts as one of its kind meaningful platforms for business networking, knowledge exchange, and discussions on the emerging trends shaping our industry’s future.” Said Mr Sooraj Dhawan, President. Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA).

    “The 14th edition, the IEIA Open Seminar is expected to attract over 700 leading industry players at decision maker levels including leading Exhibition/ Event Organisers, heads of various trade bodies, sectoral associations and key govt. bodies. India is the fastest growing exhibition market in the world and has grown at 40% post Covid. The Exhibition Industry’s contribution to the Indian economy is Rs. 50,000 crores. Business generated through exhibitions is Rs. 300,000 crores.” Said Mr Dhawan.

    “The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).  refers to a specialized segment of the tourism and hospitality industry focused on organizing and hosting business events. We urge the govt to announce October 1 as the National MICE Day as further boosting the morale of the industry.” Said Mr Dhawan.

    MICE is also known as the event industry. Over the past decades, the MICE industry has been recognized as a significant market segment and an important contributor to national economies. It not only gives a boost to the economy in the form of income generation, but creates huge employment opportunities in related hospitality services providing sectors like accommodation, food and beverage, convention services, transportation, tourism and entertainment.

    Those present on the occasion included Mr Premjeet Lal ED, ITPO, Mr Rakesh Kumar, MD, India Expo mart, Mr Jagdish Patanakar Hon Secretary IEIA, and Mr Ravinder Sethi, vice president, IEIA 

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    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Global Media Dialogue 2025: Member Nations adopt WAVES Declaration and agree to collaborate on giving Voice to Traditions and Heritage, while promoting Creativity in era of AI

    Source: Government of India

    Global Media Dialogue 2025: Member Nations adopt WAVES Declaration and agree to collaborate on giving Voice to Traditions and Heritage, while promoting Creativity in era of AI

    WAVES Declaration seeks to Bridge the Digital Divide by promoting Responsible Use of Emerging Technologies, while Reducing Bias, Democratizing Content and Prioritizing Ethics

    WAVES Declaration affirms the power of media & entertainment to unite the people, promote shared cultural practices, deepen innovation and resilience in globally interconnected markets

    Crucial that Young Talent is made ready for an Age of Creative Collaborations through relevant Skill Development: EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar

    Focus on Co-production Treaties, Joint Funds and a Declaration to widen the Global Bridge of Creativity to an Expressway of Ideas: MIB Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 3:20PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    “Global Collaborations on promoting creativity is the way ahead, while understanding the cross-cultural sensitivities of each other.” This was one among the many outcomes of the Global Media Dialogue held in Mumbai during the ongoing World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025). Widening creative spaces in the countries therefore holds the key to our collective progress as we all tread the path to bridge the digital divide, felt the nations that took part in the dialogue. The dialogue focused on the role of governments in fostering global peace and harmony amid an increasingly globalized media environment, culminating in the adoption of the WAVES Declaration by the member nations.

    The Global Media Dialogue echoed the sentiment that films, depicting cultures across the world, hold an immense potential in bringing people closer, and participating nations appreciated the role of Indian films in this regard. As an entertaining format of storytelling, the films act as a strong force to collaborate with each other. Individual stories are also emerging fast as a strong force in the creator’s economy with the confluence of technology in the art of storytelling redefining the entertainment world. Some member nations shared the concerns on the need to enhance “responsible journalism”, which they felt can thus be addressed by mutual collaborations on the forum of WAVES.

    Calling the WAVES 2025 as a microcosm of the global community, Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, Government of India said that the Summit brings together content creators, policy makers, actors, writers, producers and visual artists on a common platform for discussing a future roadmap for the Media and Entertainment sector.

    During his address, Dr. Jaishankar touched upon the broad contours under consideration at the Global Media Dialogue 2025. He noted that the World order, which has a strong cultural dimension, is under transformation today. “It is essential that we give voice to our traditions, heritage, ideas, practices and creativity”, he said.

    EAM stated that technology and tradition must go hand in hand, as technology can strengthen awareness of our vast heritage and deepen consciousness about it, especially for the younger generations. “It is crucial that young talent is made ready for an age of creative collaborations through relevant skill development. Innovation is key to the leapfrogging that will build Viksit Bharat”, he highlighted.

    In the emerging era of AI, Dr. Jaishankar stated, the possibilities are beyond imagination, yet there is a need for a responsible use of emerging technologies, while reducing bias, democratizing content and prioritizing its ethics. “For a global workplace and global workforce, there is need for shifts in mindsets, frameworks, policies and practices”, he concluded while reposting confidence in WAVES as a platform to deliberate on the key issues before the global media and entertainment sector.

    Setting the tone for the dialogue in his welcome address, Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Government of India in his opening remarks said that culture inspires creativity which connects people across borders. He added that content creation and consumption is changing fast as technology is reshaping the way we tell our stories. We are at an inflection point where we need to incentivize local content creation.

    Welcoming the delegates from 77 countries to the city of dreams, Mumbai, the Shri Vaishnaw stressed on the crucial role of collaborations and asserted that for common success, we need to focus on co-production treaties, joint funds and a declaration which helps us bridge the digital divide, foster brotherhood, global peace and harmony. We need to thus widen the global bridge of creativity to an expressway of ideas, he said.

    During the deliberations, where senior-most Ministerial-level delegations expressed their views, India informed participating nations about the 32 Create in India challenges, which resulted in identification of over 700 top creators from across the globe in the first season of WAVES. India informed the members that from the next edition, these challenges will be conducted in 25 global languages so that creative talent can be identified from across the globe in different languages. This will help them showcase their creative content at WAVES forum.

    Other dignitaries gracing the occasion included Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, along with Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary (I&B), besides other senior officers of the Government of India.

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Digital Radio is the medium of the future; analog medium should also co-exist” – From the Discussion at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    “Digital Radio is the medium of the future; analog medium should also co-exist” – From the Discussion at WAVES 2025

    “Good content, collaborations, cross platform promotions augur well for Radio”

    ‘Radio Reimagined: Thriving in the Digital Age’ – Enriching panel discussion at WAVES 2025

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 3:09PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    A panel discussion on the subject ‘Radio Reimagined: Thriving in the Digital Age’ brought together global experts to engage in an insightful discourse at WAVES 2025 today.

    The esteemed panellists included the pioneer of commercial radio Jacqueline Bierhorst, Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) Chairman Ruxandra Obreja, Vice Group Leader of DRM Alexander Zink, ex-CEO of Prasar Bharati and Co-Founder of Deep Tech for Bharat Shashi Shekhar Vempati and noted broadcast technology expert Ted Laverty. Nisha Narayanan, Director & COO of Red FM moderated the conversations with expertise and led to throwing lights on the factors influencing the radio broadcasting industry. 

    ‘Digital Radio is the medium of the future, but analog should also co-exist’

    Jacqueline Bierhorst feels that digital radio is likely to be the primary format in the future, as it offers advantages like better sound quality, more reliable transmission, and the ability to integrate multimedia elements. “While analog radio remains relevant in some contexts, particularly for simpler communication and in areas with limited digital infrastructure, the shift to digital broadcasting is ongoing and expected to continue”, she opined. Cost saving happens by switching from analog to digital, they informed.

    However, Jacqueline Bierhorst  and Alexander Zink noted that broadcast is an important backing point needed during exigencies like terrorist attacks, floods etc., when digital networks may not always work. DRM Chairman Ruxandra Obreja noted on this point that it is important to preserve analog radio in India which reaches out to 600,000 villages. In case of exigencies, undoubtedly broadcast radios are more likely to reach out to a larger population, remarked the experts. “The challenge is to introduce new technologies, without disrupting the old ones”, noted Ruxandra Obreja.

    The new 5Cs of radio communication

    Jacqueline Bierhorst mentioned the classical 5Cs namely, Conciseness, Clarity, Confidence, Control and Capability, and juxtaposed them with the new 5 Cs essential in the era of a thriving digital radio infrastructure. These are: Coverage, Content, Consumer Devices, Car, Communication. She advised to make sure that the radio network is covering the right areas where listeners are based.

    Measurement of listenership is an important step to take concerted efforts for enabling the sector to prosper. Ted Lavety spoke about radio playing Apps in Europe, like Radioplayer and Radio FM, that offer features that can be used to measure listenership, without infringement of privacy. Such programmes and apps, sample surveys and listening diaries can be used to analyse hotspots of radio listenerships in India as well, he advised.

    Good content, collaborations, cross platform promotions work well

    ‘Content is King’ – the experts agreed on this success mantra for the sector. Nisha Narayanan flagged the issue faced by private FMs of high license fee for varied contents. As as a result, they end up mostly catering popular music which has a lower licence fee than other categories of content. The Red FM COO agreed on the need for bringing variety in content for private FMs.

    Speaking about the value of good, useful content, Jacqueline Bierhorst highlighted the success story of British digital radio station Absolute Radio which grew and earned revenue throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s while engaging in various educational and promotional activities that benefit their audience.

    Digital radio has to offer more than the audio content – it has visuals and text applications that is advantageous for growing audience base, Alexander Zing reminded of this yet another aspect of Digital Radio.

    Ted Laverty urged that an ecosystem needed to support the spread of radio listenership. Making low-cost devices, having favourable platforms like android are some of the measures he stated. In addition to existence of external hardware components, diversity of content is also important as it helps to address different sub-groups of listeners.

    Climate Change and Digital Radio

    Digital radio can achieve significant energy savings by using more efficient modulation techniques and enabling single-frequency networks. However, switching off FM stations is not possible. Though some European countries have tried complete switch off of FM stations and complete digitization, it is not the holy grail, said Ruxandra Obreja. She suggested that it is important to inventorize the needs of commercial radio stations while speaking with the Government for policy interventions.

    Radio Industry in India – scope for strengthening the ecosystem

    Ruxandra Obreja mentioned that public policies in Europe have leveraged the reach of digital radio. Having radio in cars, mobile phones, easy availability of radio sets in the market are important steps in that direction. A digital radio consortium should be built up in India, opined the experts.

    Ruxandra Obreja stated that India is a driving force in digital radio. Digital to Terrestrial Radio is important and so is digital to mobile. “Prasar Bharti has a reach to nearly 90 crore population. India is a golden goose in this field, plus points being billions of mobile phone users in India. Important to build on these plus points”, she added.

    Shashi Shekhar Vempatti stated that India is the biggest market for radio, and referred to the medium as the original public good. He highlighted the need for coordinated public action for the sector. “Radio is not going anywhere. Radio consumers in India come from a broad cross section of society”, he stated while charting out the advantages of the sector in the country. Policy interventions may include sequence of stipulations like certain categories of devices must have radio. AI powered devices as well as passive devices like traditional radio should exist side by side.

    With climate change being an important determinant of public policies, it is important to preserve traditional devices. Ted Laverty urged for scaling up of the ecosystem for radio in India, using schemes like ‘Make in India’ for incentivizing radio device manufacturers.

    The experts agreed that digital radio is the way forward in India and elsewhere and urged that commercial stations with Common Transmission Infrastructure ion big cities to form a platform for collaboration.

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seventh Peabody for NFB, second Peabody for Banger Films. Banger Films/National Film Board of Canada feature doc Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story wins Peabody Award for Documentary.

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 1, 2025 – Toronto – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    The Banger Films/National Film Board of Canada (NFB) feature-length documentary Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story, directed by Toronto filmmakers Michael Mabbott and Lucah Rosenberg-Lee, has won the prestigious Peabody Award in the Documentary category.

    Winners will be celebrated at a ceremony in Los Angeles on June 1.

    Any Other Way has now received 22 awards and honours, with 47 festival selections as it continues its international festival run. The NFB is distributor and sales agent for Any Other Way, which is currently streaming on Crave in Canada.

    About the film

    • Produced by Amanda Burt, Sam Dunn, Scot McFadyen (Banger Films), Michael Mabbott and Justine Pimlott (NFB)
    • Executive produced by Scot McFadyen, Sam Dunn, Chanda Chevannes (NFB), Anita Lee (NFB), Elliot Page and Matt Jordan Smith (PAGEBOY Productions), Martin Katz, Nia Long and CJ Mac

    A star is reborn.

    With an outsize stage presence that eclipsed R&B greats like Etta James and Little Richard, soul singer Jackie Shane shattered barriers with raw talent, courage and an unbreakable commitment to truth. Jackie boldly carved a new path as one of music’s trailblazing Black trans performers—but on the edge of stardom, why did she suddenly leave the spotlight?

    After mysteriously vanishing from public view for almost 40 years, this little-known icon finally gets her second act. Through never-before-heard phone conversations, dazzling animation and an incredible soundtrack, the full scope of her extraordinary life and career is revealed in this remarkable portrait.

    NFB and Banger Films at the Peabodys

    This is the seventh Peabody Award for the NFB, which previously won in 2016 for Brett Gaylor’s Do Not Track (NFB/Upian/Arte/Bayerischer Rundfunk); in 2014 for Katerina Cizek’s A Short History of the Highrise (NFB/The New York Times); in 2011 for Neil Diamond, Catherine Bainbridge and Jeremiah Hayes’s Reel Injun (Rezolution Pictures/NFB); in 2002 for Karen Shopsowitz’s My Father’s Camera; in 1996 for John N. Smith’s The Boys of St. Vincent (NFB/Télé-Action); and in 1995 for Jeff McKay’s documentary Fat Chance.

    It’s also the second Peabody for Banger Films, which won in 2017 for their multi-season docuseries Hip-Hop Evolution.

    About the awards

    Respected for their integrity and revered for their standards of excellence, the Peabody Awards honour excellence in media narratives that reflect the social issues and emerging voices of our day. From major productions to local journalism, the Peabody Awards shine a light on the stories that matter and are a testament to the power of art and reportage in the push for truth, social justice and equity.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: nfb.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB Twitter | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Historical films and TV shows are embracing diversity – but real historical voices are still overlooked

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Éadaoin Agnew, Senior lecturer in English literature, Kingston University

    In the Disney+ television series, A Thousand Blows, Malachi Kirby plays Hezekiah Moscow, a Jamaican immigrant in London who is part of an underground boxing ring in the 1880s.

    The character, like many in the show, is based on a real-life figure. However, as historian David Olusoga recently explained in a comment to the Radio Times, Moscow is typical of many people who have come from the Caribbean or Africa in that we only have a fractured biography in the British historical records. We get flashes of information before he disappears.

    In recent years, there have been increasing creative efforts to fill these historical gaps. This suggests there is a willingness, at least in some spheres, to acknowledge the long history of multiculturalism in Britain and to see people of colour in 19th-century histories (see also 2019’s David Copperfield starring Dev Patel and the multicultural cast of Bridgerton).

    These costume dramas build on decades of scholarly work. There are now many excellent historical studies that document the various ways in which the Atlantic slave trade and imperialism produced routes and reasons for travel to Britain.

    Most people who arrived here from the colonies in the 18th and 19th centuries did not have the means to write their own stories, so we glance their lives through incomplete historical records. But, there were also British subjects of colour who were educated in English with a degree of relative privilege and who produced compelling and popular accounts of their experiences in Britain or life in the colonies. They also wrote fascinating fiction and beautiful poetry.

    These narratives directly challenge the general perception that multiculturalism emerged in Britain after the Windrush (Caribbean immigrants who arrived in Britain after the second world war to rebuild the nation) and that 19th-century English literature emerged only from Britain. Yet, there remains an unwillingness to centre these stories and to allow diverse voices to speak for themselves.

    My own work on the AHRC-funded Victorian Diversities Research Network seeks to recuperate and promote these stories.

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

    Historical writers of colour and writers from other marginalised communities are continually excluded from school curricula, literary anthologies and TV adaptations. This is a kind of cultural gate-keeping that reinforces imperialist ideas about literary value.

    One example of this literary exclusion is Mary Seacole (1805-1881). Born in Jamaica to a Creole mother and Scottish father, she is now remembered in Britain for her contributions to nursing during the Crimean War. She is commemorated for her work by a statue at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London and by John Aagard’s wonderful poem Checking Out Me History (2019).

    Even so, there is a notable neglect of her fantastic memoir. Published in 1857, Wonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands is a funny, insightful and interesting account of her fulsome life. It clearly shows an affinity for Britain, while also acknowledging the difficulties she experienced there.

    One of two known photographs of Mary Seacole, taken circa 1873.
    Wiki Commons

    Another example is Ham Mukasa (1870-1956), who penned an account of his travels to England as part of an official African delegation in 1902 titled Uganda’s Katikiro in England. Written in a light and lively manner, his travelogue offers a fascinating picture of London at the turn of the century, as seen from a unique perspective.

    When Mukasa visited the British Museum not long after arriving in the metropolis, he admired the displays of “wonderful things of long ago”. He explains to his readers that these items are stored behind glass so visitors cannot touch them. It’s a fact that becomes particularly pertinent when he comes across several Ugandan artefacts donated to the museum by British travellers:

    We saw different articles from our country; some had been brought by Sir H. H. Johnston, who had given a great many things, and others by other Englishmen … the Rev. R. P. Ashe had given a great many, and others too had given things from our country of Uganda.

    It is a powerful image: the Ugandan men standing in a British institution looking at their own indigenous culture through a glass. The encounter speaks directly to contemporary debates about museum collections and the need for inclusive cultural spaces.

    Both Mukasa and Seacole, as people of colour and colonial subjects, articulate feelings of belonging and unbelonging in the metropolitan centre. They find much to admire in British culture and society while also acknowledging the fact of racial marginalisation.

    As such, they give historical and literary expression to the affects of mobility, migration and multiculturalism. As professor of global literatures Ruvani Ranasinha argues, current debates on citizenship rights, migration policy, what constitutes “Englishness” and multiculturalism were prompted and anticipated by the presence of colonial subjects within Britain over a century ago.

    Ignatius Sancho by Thomas Gainsborough (1768).
    National Gallery of Canada

    In a 2019 paper, he explains that “Britain was always ‘multicultural’ even before multiculturalism was theorised: multicultural in terms of a sense of (un)belonging, a redrawing of culturally and racially defined borders and remapping of British identities”. And so, Ranashina notes, we must do more than simply acknowledge the historical presence of marginalised people and start engaging with diverse cultural contributions.

    This is vital because an inclusive canon more accurately represents the multiple stories that make up English literary history.

    It also makes important critical and cultural contributions to the creation of an inclusive society today. This is acknowledged by actor and writer Paterson Joseph who recently fictionalised the letters of Ignatius Sancho, a writer and composer, who was born on a slave ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean:

    “I was once timid about my place here in the UK, but researching Sancho’s story … has given me a deep sense of belonging, of a shared history with a nation that sometimes ignores, sometimes rejects, my people’s right to an equal role in its storytelling.”

    Éadaoin Agnew receives funding from AHRC for the Victorian Diversities Research Network https://victoriandiversities.co.uk

    – ref. Historical films and TV shows are embracing diversity – but real historical voices are still overlooked – https://theconversation.com/historical-films-and-tv-shows-are-embracing-diversity-but-real-historical-voices-are-still-overlooked-253191

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met releases CCTV of missing 17-year-old in urgent witness appeal

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met is releasing CCTV of a 17-year-old boy who’s been missing for more than a month as his family appeal for information about his whereabouts.

    Deante James left his home in Enfield at around 23:00hrs on Monday, 31 March and was reported missing to the Met the following morning.

    Officers began an investigation and recovered CCTV which identified a sighting in The Courtfield Pub in Earl’s Court Road in Earl’s Court at around 20:00hrs on Thursday, 3 April. Further footage showed he had also visited a nearby McDonald’s.

    In the footage, Deante is seen wearing a black ‘Trapstar’ cap, a blue jacket, black tracksuit and black trainers. He was carrying a Nike backpack and Nike cross body bag.

    As part of our investigation, officers have already viewed over 18 hours of CCTV footage, including multiple cameras across the public transport network. Officers are still awaiting further CCTV which officers will review once it becomes available.

    While officers believe that Deante is not carrying a mobile phone, enquiries have been carried out to obtain historic mobile phone date, in order to identify and associates that could know about Deante’s whereabouts.

    As well as Enfield, Deante has links to Romford, Dagenham, Hackney, Ilford and Earl’s Court. He may have also travelled to Brighton.

    Deante’s mum, Vandana Bhogowoth, said:

    “To Boo (Darell Deante, sun son) wherever you are please know that we love you unconditionally and just want you home safe. You are not in any trouble, you are missed beyond words! We are desperate to know you are okay, and all your family are waiting with wide open arms and heart!

    “If anyone has seen my son or has any information please contact the police or us immediately. We are desperate for your help. Every piece of information matters. He is very vulnerable as of recent and just want him home so he can get the love, help and support he desperately needs. All our lives are on standstill until he is home safe.”

    Detective Chief Inspector Elsa Mak, from the missing person’s team in north London, said:

    “Deante has been missing for more than a month as we are increasingly concerned for his welfare. He has not been in contact with any of his family or friends and left without any traceable items which means we have limited opportunity to identify his movements.

    Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting the reference 01/7330181/25. Report immediate sightings by calling 999.

    You can also contact the Missing People charity online or by calling 116 000.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Bingeable comedy, a Jim Crow-era vampire thriller and William Morris mania – what to watch, read and do this week

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Naomi Joseph, Arts + Culture Editor

    I recently bought a Now TV subscription because we are in prime prestige TV season and I needed it to watch The White Lotus and The Last of Us. Deep into those big, confronting shows (which are brilliant but, let’s be honest, a lot), I was looking for something that was comforting and easy. If this is what you are also craving right now, I could not recommend Hacks more.

    Hacks is a whip-smart and hilarious show with 30-minute episodes. It follows Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), an edgy comedy writer who isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and spiky Las Vegas comedy veteran Deborah Vance (Jean Smart). This pair are shoved together by their shared manager when Ava is fired from a writing gig for making an off-colour joke on social media, and Deborah loses her headline slot on the Vegas strip as the city moves on without her.

    The trailer for season four of Hacks.

    Since its first season, Hacks has provided insightful commentary on the male-dominated world of comedy. The push and pull relationship between Ava and Deborah is hilarious as they clash over generational differences on everything from comedy to sexuality. The show has been rightly lauded for its brilliant writing, which manages to go all the way up to the line without being hateful – a skill many comedians who argue that it’s hard to make comedy in our politically correct age could learn from.

    Now in its fourth season, our reviewer, Jacqueline Ristola, an expert in the media industry and comedy, says Hacks has managed to maintain the quality (and hilarity) while finding new ground to explore women’s precarious place in the entertainment industry.



    Read more:
    Hacks season four tackles late-night TV – and is as funny and perceptive as ever

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

    If you are in the mood for something a bit moodier and serious, then Sinners might be for you. The film follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack (both played by Michael B. Jordan) who have returned home to Mississippi in an attempt to leave their troubles behind. What they find waiting for them, however, is much worse.

    Sinners is set in Jim Crow-era Mississippi, a time of harsh segregation and racial injustice. While the horrors of this period are certainly enough to scare anyone, director Ryan Coogler has decided to tell a story grounded in supernatural evil. Vampires aside, there is a lot of history in Sinners too. Criminology expert Rachel Stuart found it interesting how the real stories of Irish and Choctaw oppression informed the film.



    Read more:
    Sinners: how real stories of Irish and Choctaw oppression inform the film

    The trailer for Sinners.

    If you’re looking for something to read, we recommend the memoir Red Pockets. In this piece, Alice Mah, a professor in urban and environmental studies, writes about why she was inspired to create this book after a personal detour to her ancestral village she took while on a research trip.

    In Red Pockets, Mah chronicles her journey from the rice villages of south China back to postindustrial England. Her research on pollution leads to growing eco-anxiety, and paired with this trip leaves her in spiritual crisis. Part memoir, part cultural history and environmental exploration, this book explores what we owe our ancestors and also future generations.



    Read more:
    Travelling to my ancestral home in China unearthed tragedy tinged by the climate crisis – it inspired me to write Red Pockets

    Inky worlds and popular patterns

    Also moody and brilliant is the Victor Hugo exhibition at the Royal Academy in London. I did not know that the French writer was an avid artist, and this exhibition is a wonderful and rare opportunity to gaze into the dark and surreal world of the mind behind Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

    Hugo’s inky paintings and drawings of townscapes and watery underworlds invoke a sort of nightmarish and apocalyptic reality. The low lighting in which these extremely fragile works must be kept adds to the whole foreboding atmosphere. The exhibition’s title comes from Van Gogh’s opinion of Hugo’s work as “astonishing things”, and they really are. Our review, expert in fine art Martin Lang, found “the sense of uncertainty to feel oddly relevant to today”.



    Read more:
    Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo at the Royal Academy is dark and brilliant

    Another man whose art has had enduring appeal is designer William Morris. Most people probably have or know of someone who owns something adorned with one of his hypnotising patterns. His work has remained incredibly popular since he first started producing it in the 1860s. A new exhibition at the William Morris exhibition, Morris Mania: How Britain’s Greatest Designer Went Viral, explores how his work proliferated to such a degree.

    While you may be able to spot a Morris, you might not know much about the man. He was a fervent socialist who championed a principle of handmade production that didn’t chime with the Victorian era’s focus on industrial “progress”. These ideals sit in opposition to how his work has come to be used today.

    Our reviewer, an expert in applied art, found that the exhibition was sensitive to this, championing “ethical and bespoke production, while confronting the darker currents that move objects around our world”.



    Read more:
    William Morris: new exhibition reveals how Britain’s greatest designer went viral

    – ref. Bingeable comedy, a Jim Crow-era vampire thriller and William Morris mania – what to watch, read and do this week – https://theconversation.com/bingeable-comedy-a-jim-crow-era-vampire-thriller-and-william-morris-mania-what-to-watch-read-and-do-this-week-255742

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: ESET Wins 2025 SC Award for Ransomware Remediation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, May 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity, is proud to announce that ESET Ransomware Remediation has won a 2025 SC Award for Best Business Continuity, Disaster, Ransomware Recovery Solution. Presented on April 29 during the SC Awards Reception at RSAC™ 2025, this award recognizes ESET’s advanced Ransomware Remediation technology and its pivotal role in helping organizations mitigate ransomware threats and recover swiftly from attacks. The SC Awards program, now in its 28th year, recognizes the solutions, organizations, and individuals that have demonstrated outstanding achievement in advancing the security of information systems.

    “We are truly honored by this recognition, which affirms our belief that ransomware defense must go beyond prevention and empower speedy, seamless recovery,” said Ryan Grant, VP of Marketing and Sales at ESET North America. “With ESET Ransomware Remediation, we’ve built a solution that not only stops attacks in their tracks but also gives businesses the ability to bounce back quickly and confidently. It’s a critical step toward a future where organizations aren’t just reacting to threats, but are truly resilient in the face of them.”

    ESET Ransomware Remediation, part of the ESET PROTECT platform, distinguishes itself by creating temporary encrypted backups in a sequestered environment, enabling rapid data recovery even in the event of encryption by ransomware. Unlike solutions reliant on the Windows Volume Shadow Copy service, ESET’s proprietary approach works post-execution, in concert with ESET Ransomware Shield, to detect, block, and recover from ransomware attacks with minimal disruption.

    The SC Awards celebrate the most outstanding achievements in cybersecurity, from innovative technologies to forward-thinking organizations and individuals. The 2025 entries were evaluated across 33 specialty categories by a distinguished panel of judges, comprised of cybersecurity professionals, industry leaders, and members of the CyberRisk Alliance CISO community, representing sectors such as healthcare, financial services, education, and technology. The judging process emphasized technical merit, market impact, and the ability to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges. View the full list of 2025 SC Awards winners here: www.scworld.com/sc-awards.

    “This year’s winners rose to the top, but they did so in a field crowded with standout talent, bold ideas, and hard-earned innovation,” said Tom Spring, Senior Editorial Director, SC Media. “With more than 160 finalists and hundreds of submissions, the 2025 SC Awards reflect the depth, diversity, and dynamism of the cybersecurity community.”

    “SC Awards are recognized worldwide by the cybersecurity community, and we are honored to take home the Best Business Continuity, Disaster, Ransomware Recovery Solution award this year,” said Tony Anscombe, Chief Security Evangelist for ESET. “Cybersecurity solutions are evolving at breakneck speed, and these innovations are on full display this week at RSAC 2025. It was a pleasure to be recognized alongside some of the most innovative cybersecurity vendors in the industry at the SC Media Awards Ceremony.”

    For more information on ESET’s award-winning Ransomware Remediation solution, visit www.eset.com.

    About ESET

    ESET® provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of emerging global cyberthreats, both known and unknown— securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, our AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. The ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow our social media, podcasts and blogs.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Decision on The Blue Note Jazz Club | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    The new premises licence application for The Blue Note Jazz Club was approved by the Licensing Sub-Committee yesterday (1st May).

    A Westminster City Council spokesperson said:

    Westminster is home to some of the capital’s most loved music venues and we want to ensure late night entertainment can continue to thrive.

    “Every licensing decision is carefully considered, based on the evidence presented to committee and keeping in mind the needs of residents.”

    “In this case it was clear that venue management have engaged extensively with local people to improve their application and address the concerns that were raised by the police.

    We’re pleased that, following the approval of this application, jazz lovers will soon be able to enjoy the Blue Note Jazz Club.”

    The council has launched its first ever Westminster After Dark Strategy to improve the city’s evening and night-time environment. The draft strategy, sets out a roadmap to ensure Westminster remains a world-class destination between 6pm and 6am, balancing a thriving economy with the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.

    Speaking as Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, Cllr Geoff Barraclough said: 

    This is exactly the kind of venue we want to see more of in Westminster and which is encouraged in our After Dark strategy as part of a more varied evening and night time offer across the city. As a jazz lover I can’t wait to visit.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Opposes Trump’s Plan to Defund NPR & PBS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump tried and failed in his first term to kill federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CBP) but is now taking another shot at undercutting NPR and PBS stations across the country.  Yesterday evening, President Trump signed an executive order seeking to prohibit federal funding for National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). 
    Last month, the Trump White House issued a statement accusing NPR and PBS of allegedly promoting “radical, woke propaganda.”
    U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) strongly opposes the move to eliminate public broadcasting and silence unbiased, fact-based reporting and educational programming.
    “Public broadcasting is for the public benefit in every single state across this great country.  It provides trusted local and national news, culture, lifesaving emergency alerts, and public safety information.  NPR and PBS stations play an important role in the media landscape.  They are not ratings driven or just trying to reach one target demographic.  Whether you’re listening in Idaho, Alabama or Rhode Island, NPR and PBS are fact-based and their goal is to inform and ensure all voices can be part of the national discussion.  It’s not sensationalized or slanted: It is civic-minded.  At a time when newsrooms are shrinking, and when billionaires are buying up and controlling the editorial content of big papers, TV, and the internet, public broadcasting is the opposite: It’s for everyone and not beholden to any individual or ideology,” said Senator Reed.
    CPB is a private, nonprofit corporation authorized by Congress in the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967 under the leadership of former U.S. Senator John O. Pastore (D-RI).  CPB is the steward of the federal government’s investment in public broadcasting and the largest single source of funding for public radio, television, and related online and mobile services.  However, both NPR and PBS are only partly funded by federal funds and rely heavily on private donations.
    According to America’s Public Television Stations, there are over 160 locally-operated, locally-controlled, locally-focused public television stations that serve communities small and large across the country.  In Rhode Island, the state’s public television and radio stations have partnered to offer local original news and programming, as well as national broadcasts ranging from “All Things Considered” to “Sesame Street.”
    Reed noted that Trump is working to end federal support for NPR and PBS at the same time he is trying to curtail the free press and limit unbiased news in favor of his preferred right-wing media outlets. 
    “President Trump seems to want all news to be about how great he thinks he is.  He routinely attacks the media and doesn’t want people to have facts – he wants right-wing stenographers parroting his version of the facts.  His FCC Chair has threatened news outlets and suggested their “licensed operations” could be in jeopardy because of immigration coverage that ran afoul of the President’s preferred spin and narrative.  I hope Americans will contact their representatives in Congress and urge them to support public broadcasting.  It is valuable to have unbiased news to keep the administration’s deeds in the limelight and keep people well informed,” said Reed.
    CBP receives about $535 million annually in federal funds which it uses to provide grants to hundreds of local stations nationwide. The stations use the federal funds to produce their own programming or to purchase programming from services such as NPR and PBS that is then broadcast to local audiences.
    While Trump can ask Congress to defund CBP, he cannot force NPR and PBS off the air entirely.  Both networks have revenue that comes from non-profit grants, advertising, and voluntary viewer and listener donations.  However, if Trump claws back the federal funding it would likely force small, local stations to cease operations, likely in rural and less populated regions that President Trump claims don’t get enough from the government.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Human rights group calls for probe into attack on Freedom Flotilla ship

    Asia Pacific Report

    A human rights agency has called for an investigation into the drone attacks on the Gaza Freedom Flotilla aid ship Conscience with Israel suspected of being responsible.

    The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor said in a statement that the deliberate targeting of a civilian aid ship in international waters was a “flagrant violation” of the United Nations Charter, the Law of the Sea, and the Rome Statute, which prohibits the targeting of humanitarian objects.

    It added: “This attack falls within a recurring and documented pattern of force being used to prevent ships from reaching the Gaza Strip, even before they approach its shores.”

    The monitor is calling for an “independent and transparent investigation under Maltese jurisdiction, with the participation of the United Nations”.

    It is also demanding “guarantees for safe sea passage for humanitarian aid bound for Gaza”.

    “Any failure to act today will only encourage further attacks on humanitarian missions and deepen the catastrophe unfolding in Gaza,” said the monitor.

    A spokesperson for the Gaza Freedom Flotilla said the group blamed Israel or one of its allies for the attack, adding it currently did not have proof of this claim.

    Israeli TV confirms attack
    However, Israel’s channel 12 television reported that Israeli forces were responsible for the attack.

    The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) is a grassroots people-to-people solidarity movement composed of campaigns and initiatives from different parts of the world, working together to end the illegal Israeli blockade of Gaza.

    The organisation said its goals included:

    • breaking Israel’s more than 17-year illegal and inhumane blockade of the Gaza Strip;
    • educating people around the world about the blockade of Gaza;
    • condemning and publicising the complicity of other governments and global actors in enabling the blockade; and
    • responding to the cry from Palestinians and Palestinian organisations in Gaza for solidarity to break the blockade.

    The MV Conscience — with about 30 human rights and aid activists on board — came under direct attack in international waters off the coast of Malta at 00:23 local time.

    The Maltese government said everyone on the ship was safe following the attack. Although several New Zealanders have been on board past flotilla ships, none were on board this time.

    In May 2010, Israeli security forces attacked six vessels in a Freedom Flotilla mission carrying aid aid bound for Gaza.

    Nine of the flotilla passengers were killed during the raid, with 30 wounded — one of whom later died of his wounds.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Kevin Vilkin Joins Milken Young Leaders Circle

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, May 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kevin Vilkin, co-founder of Emergent Strategic Partners, has joined the Milken Young Leaders Circle (YLC), an honor awarded to outstanding executives, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and philanthropy. As a member of YLC, Vilkin will join a network of high-impact individuals working across industries to drive innovation, economic growth, and social progress.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Kevin to the YLC community,” said Jenny Sorin, Associate Director, Business and Program at the Milken Institute. “His dedication to advancing renewable energy and leveraging technology for global impact aligns with the Milken Institute’s mission to drive meaningful change. Through his leadership at Emergent, Kevin is helping leading brands accelerate clean energy adoption and reduce carbon emissions. We look forward to the insights and impact he will bring to our network.”

    “I am honored to be recognized by and join the Milken Young Leaders Circle,” said Vilkin. “At Emergent, we believe in the power of transformative partnerships, and I look forward to collaborating with this extraordinary group of leaders to create meaningful change at scale.”

    About Kevin Vilkin

    Before launching Emergent, Vilkin founded and successfully exited his first business—a music events company—at the age of 21, helping shape the careers of global artists such as Mumford & Sons and the Zac Brown Band. He founded the Vanguard Program for Summit Series, connecting the world’s most influential leaders, including Richard Branson, Ray Dalio, and Jeff Bezos.

    Vilkin currently serves as a Senior Advisor to Redaptive, ID.me, and GoodLeap. He sits on the Board of Directors at Conservation International, is a member of Business Executives for National Security (BENS), and has been recognized as a Milken Young Leaders Circle and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Additionally, he previously served as a Senior Advisor to TPG Growth.

    About Emergent Strategic Partners

    Emergent develops strategic partnerships that scale sustainable innovations for large enterprises. By connecting leading companies with emerging businesses, Emergent drives cost efficiencies and revenue growth while providing family offices with access to high-potential investment opportunities. Emergent partners’ impact includes $2.2B in revenue generated, $2.8B in enterprise value created, and $1.3B in capital raised.

    Media Contact:
    Paul Orszag
    Emergent Strategic Partners
    porszag@esp.co
    (661) 803-6617

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Crypto Casinos: JACKBIT Rated Top Bitcoin Casino With Instant Withdrawal

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BINGHAMTON, N.Y., May 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The surge in popularity of crypto gambling sites has transformed online gaming, offering players unparalleled privacy, lightning-fast transactions, and thrilling crypto opportunities. With countless online crypto casinos competing for attention, finding the best crypto casino can be daunting.

    Launched in 2022, this new crypto casino excels with its no KYC policy, instant withdrawals, high-payout games, and a vast library of over 6,600 titles, positioning it as the best bitcoin casino for players seeking a secure and rewarding experience.

    Whether you’re spinning slots like Gates of Olympus or betting on global sports events, JACKBIT likely delivers a seamless and engaging experience that sets it apart among the best crypto casinos. This comprehensive review explores why JACKBIT is our top pick, detailing its bonuses, game variety, payment options, security, and more. Ready to dive into the future of gaming? Join JACKBIT Casino to claim your welcome bonus and start playing!

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    A Closer Look at the Best Crypto Casino: JACKBIT

    JACKBIT has likely solidified its position as the premier crypto gambling site through a combination of innovative features and a player-centric approach. Established in 2022, it operates under a Curacao eGaming license, ensuring compliance with international standards for fair play and security. The casino’s no KYC policy is a standout, allowing players to register and play anonymously without submitting personal identification, a significant advantage for privacy-conscious users seeking a no KYC crypto casino.

    The platform’s instant withdrawal capability is another key feature, enabling players to access winnings in minutes, particularly with cryptocurrencies. This speed aligns with the expectations of a high-payout online crypto casino, providing unmatched convenience.

    JACKBIT’s game library, boasting over 6,600 titles from 91 leading providers like Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and Play’n GO, caters to diverse preferences, from slots to live dealer games and sports betting. Its sportsbook covers 140+ sports, including major leagues and esports, with thousands of live and pre-match events monthly.

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    Security is paramount, with JACKBIT employing advanced SSL encryption to protect player data and transactions, comparable to banking-grade standards. The user-friendly interface, available in 10 languages, ensures accessibility, while mobile optimization allows seamless gaming on smartphones and tablets. With 24/7 multilingual support, JACKBIT addresses player queries promptly, reinforcing its status as the best online crypto casino for 2025.

    JACKBIT – Our Favorite Best Crypto Casino

    JACKBIT’s appeal as the best crypto casino lies in its ability to combine privacy, speed, and variety into a cohesive gaming experience. New players are likely greeted with a welcome bonus of 100 free spins + 30% Rakeback + No KYC, with no wagering requirements on select promotions, allowing immediate withdrawal of winnings.

    Beyond the welcome offer, JACKBIT provides ongoing promotions to keep the excitement alive. The VIP Rakeback Club offers up to 30% rakeback based on player activity, rewarding loyalty with tangible benefits. Weekly giveaways feature prize pools of $10,000 and 10,000 free spins, while social media bonuses and Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins tournaments with a €2,000,000 prize pool add further value. These promotions make JACKBIT a top best bitcoin casino for maximizing online crypto casino returns.

    The game selection is powered by industry giants, ensuring high-quality graphics and fair outcomes. Popular slots like Book of Dead and Mega Moolah offer high RTPs and jackpot potential, while live dealer games and a comprehensive sportsbook cater to diverse interests. The platform’s modern design, intuitive navigation, and multilingual support enhance accessibility, making JACKBIT a standout new crypto casino.

    Pros and Cons of JACKBIT – The Best Crypto Casino

    Pros:

    • Operates as a no-KYC crypto casino, ensuring maximum privacy and quick registration
    • Offers instant crypto deposits and withdrawals, ideal for online crypto casino players
    • Features over 6,600 games, including slots, live dealers, and sports betting
    • Supports 16+ cryptocurrencies for seamless, secure transactions
    • Delivers 24/7 multilingual customer support via live chat and email
    • Mobile-optimized platform for the best online crypto casino gaming on the go
    • Includes high-payout games with competitive RTPs for online crypto casino play

    Cons:

    • Relatively new platform (launched in 2022), less established than older competitors
    • Some bonuses may have specific terms or wagering requirements
    • Traditional payment withdrawals (1-3 days) are slower than crypto
    • Availability may be restricted in certain regions due to licensing

    How to Join JACKBIT – The Best Crypto Casino

    Joining JACKBIT, likely the best crypto casino, appears to be a streamlined process designed for speed and convenience, ensuring players can start gaming quickly:

    1. Visit JACKBIT Casino: Click here to navigate to the sign-up page.
    2. Create Your Account: Click “Sign Up” and enter an email address and password. The no KYC crypto casino policy eliminates the need for personal details, ensuring swift registration.
    3. Make Your First Deposit: Go to the cashier, select a payment method (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Visa, or PayID), and deposit at least $10 or equivalent to qualify for the welcome bonus. For crypto, scan the QR code or copy the wallet address to send funds.
    4. Enter the Welcome Bonus Promo Code: Input the promo code (e.g., “WELCOME”—verify on the promotions page) during the deposit process to activate the 30% Rakeback + No KYC + 100 free spins no wagering.
    5. Claim Your Bonus: The bonus and free spins are credited instantly, ready for use on best online casino slots like Gates of Olympus.
    6. Start Playing for Crypto: Explore 6,600+ games or bet on sports events, leveraging your bonus for online gambling for crypto.

    Pro Tip: Verify your email and check the promotions page for the latest bonus codes to ensure seamless activation. Save your wallet address for quick future deposits, enhancing your online crypto casino experience.

    How We Selected JACKBIT as the Best Crypto Casino

    Our selection of JACKBIT as the best crypto casino involved a meticulous evaluation process to ensure it meets the needs of players seeking best crypto casinos. Below are the key criteria we considered, each thoroughly assessed to confirm JACKBIT’s superiority:

    • Licensing and Regulation: JACKBIT likely holds a Curacao eGaming license, a respected authority ensuring compliance with fair play and security standards. We verified licensing details to confirm its legitimacy as a legit online casino.
    • Security Measures: Advanced SSL encryption and provably fair games protect player data and ensure transparent outcomes, critical for a crypto gambling site.
    • Game Variety and Quality: A diverse, high-quality game library is essential. JACKBIT’s 6,600+ games from 91 providers, including slots, table games, and sports betting, cater to all preferences.
    • Bonuses and Promotions: Generous, fair bonuses enhance value. JACKBIT’s 100% welcome bonus and no-wager free spins, plus ongoing promotions, outshine competitors.
    • Payment Methods: Support for multiple cryptocurrencies and traditional options ensures flexibility. JACKBIT’s 16+ cryptos and instant transactions excel.
    • Customer Support: 24/7 live chat and email support are vital. JACKBIT’s responsive team ensures prompt assistance.
    • User Experience: A mobile-optimized, intuitive interface is key. JACKBIT’s design and accessibility enhance the best online crypto casino experience.
    • Player Feedback: High ratings on Trustpilot (4.4/5) confirm player satisfaction, despite minor withdrawal concerns.
    • Responsible Gambling: Tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion ensure a safe environment, aligning with the legit online casino’s standards.

    JACKBIT’s exceptional performance across these criteria, particularly its no KYC crypto casino policy and instant withdrawals, makes it the best crypto casino for 2025.

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    Best Crypto Casino Games at JACKBIT

    JACKBIT’s game library is a cornerstone of its best crypto casino status, offering over 6,600 titles from 91 providers, catering to every gaming preference. Below is a detailed overview of its offerings, optimized for online crypto casino play:

    • Online Slots:
      • Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play, 96.50% RTP): A 6×5 mythological slot with tumbling reels, multipliers up to 500x, and a 5,000x max win. Its pay-anywhere mechanic and Free Spins round make it a top choice for best bitcoin casino players seeking high payouts .
      • Sweet Bonanza (Pragmatic Play, 96.49% RTP): A candy-themed 6×5 slot with a pay-anywhere system, tumble feature, and 21,175x max win. Free Spins with multiplier bombs up to 100x enhance the online crypto casino potential.
      • Book of Dead (Play’n GO, 96.21% RTP): A 5-reel, 10-payline adventure slot with expanding symbols in Free Spins, offering a 5,000x max win. Its high volatility appeals to online gambling for crypto enthusiasts.
      • Mega Moolah (Microgaming, 88.12% RTP): A progressive jackpot slot with multi-million-dollar payouts, ideal for online crypto casino players chasing life-changing wins.
      • Wolf Gold (Pragmatic Play, 96.01% RTP): A 5-reel, 25-payline slot with stacked wilds, Money Respin feature, and a 5,000x max win, popular for online crypto casino play.
      • Starburst (NetEnt, 96.09% RTP): A 5-reel, 10-payline slot with expanding wilds and a 500x max win, known for its vibrant visuals and frequent payouts.
    • Table Games:
      • Blackjack: Variants like Classic Blackjack, Multi-Hand, and European Blackjack offer low house edges (0.5% with optimal strategy), ideal for strategic online crypto casino play. Players aim to beat the dealer with a hand close to 21 without busting.
      • Roulette: European (2.7% house edge), American, and French Roulette provide diverse betting options, from red/black to specific numbers, appealing to crypto gambling site players seeking classic thrills.
      • Poker: Caribbean Stud, Three Card Poker, and Texas Hold’em offer skill-based gameplay with high payout potential, enhancing the best online crypto casino experience.
      • Baccarat: Classic and Punto Banco variants feature simple rules and competitive payouts, popular among high rollers.
    • Live Dealer Games: Over 250 live tables from Evolution Gaming, including:
      • Lightning Roulette: Multipliers up to 500x add excitement, with instant payouts via crypto, ideal for online crypto casino players.
      • Infinite Blackjack: Unlimited players with side bets for enhanced win potential, offering an immersive best bitcoin casino experience.
      • Crazy Time: A vibrant game show with interactive bonus rounds, perfect for online gambling for crypto entertainment.
      • Baccarat Squeeze: Real-time dealer interaction with suspenseful card reveals, catering to online crypto casino enthusiasts.
    • Sportsbook: Covers 140+ sports, with 82,000+ monthly live events and 75,000+ pre-match events, including major leagues (NFL, NBA, Premier League), niche sports (table tennis, darts), and esports (CS:GO, Dota 2). Features like live betting, cash-out options, and 4,500+ betting types (e.g., over/under, parlays, player props) offer diverse online gambling for crypto opportunities.
    • Specialty Games:
      • Scratch Cards: Quick-win games like Scratch Dice with instant payouts, ideal for casual online casino real money play.
      • Keno: Lottery-style games with customizable bets, offering simple online crypto casino fun.
      • Virtual Sports: Simulated events like virtual football or horse racing, providing fast-paced betting options for crypto gambling site users.

    This extensive, high-quality selection, regularly updated with new releases, likely positions JACKBIT as a leading best online crypto casino, offering endless entertainment and winning opportunities for crypto casino players.

    Best Crypto Casino Payment Methods at JACKBIT

    JACKBIT’s payment system is designed for speed, security, and flexibility, making it a top no KYC crypto casino for crypto casino play. Below is a detailed overview of its payment options, emphasizing their benefits for crypto gambling site users:

    Bitcoin (BTC)

    • Type: Cryptocurrency
    • Processing Time: Instant
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: Fee-free, anonymous

    Ethereum (ETH)

    • Type: Cryptocurrency
    • Processing Time: Instant
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: High security, smart contracts

    Tether (USDT)

    • Type: Cryptocurrency
    • Processing Time: Instant
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: Stablecoin, low volatility

    Solana (SOL)

    • Type: Cryptocurrency
    • Processing Time: Instant
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: Low fees, fast transactions

    Binance Coin (BNB)

    • Type: Cryptocurrency
    • Processing Time: Instant
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: Versatile, ecosystem support

    Visa/MasterCard

    • Type: Traditional
    • Processing Time: Instant (deposits), 1–3 days (withdrawals)
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: Familiar, widely accepted

    PayID

    • Type: Traditional
    • Processing Time: Instant (deposits), 1–3 days (withdrawals)
    • Minimum Deposit: $10
    • Notes: Fast, linked to bank accounts

    Bank Transfer

    • Type: Traditional
    • Processing Time: 1–5 days
    • Minimum Deposit: $50
    • Notes: Suitable for high rollers
    • Cryptocurrencies

    JACKBIT supports 16+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, Binance Coin, and more. These offer:

    • Instant Transactions: Deposits and withdrawals are processed in seconds, aligning with instant withdrawal casino standards.
    • Privacy: No KYC for crypto users ensures anonymity, a key feature of no KYC crypto casinos.
    • Security: Blockchain technology provides transparent, tamper-proof transactions.
    • Low Fees: Minimal or no transaction fees compared to traditional methods, ideal for best bitcoin casino players.
      For example, depositing Bitcoin involves selecting BTC in the cashier, scanning a QR code, and confirming the transaction, with funds appearing instantly.
    • Traditional Methods:
      • Visa/MasterCard: Instant deposits with a $10 minimum, widely accepted for online casino players. Withdrawals take 1-3 days.
      • PayID: A fast, secure method linked to bank accounts, offering instant deposits and withdrawals within 1-3 days.
      • Bank Transfers: Suitable for larger transactions, with withdrawals taking 1-5 days and higher fees, less ideal for instant withdrawal casino needs but reliable for high rollers.
    • E-Wallets: While not explicitly listed, alternatives like Skrill or Neteller may be available, providing secure, private transactions without sharing bank details, enhancing the online gambling for crypto experience.

    JACKBIT’s crypto-centric approach, combined with traditional options, ensures flexibility and speed, making it a top online crypto casino for seamless crypto casino transactions.

    Why Choose Crypto Casinos?

    Crypto casinos offer distinct advantages over traditional online casinos, making them a preferred choice for online gambling for crypto:

    • Privacy and Anonymity: No KYC crypto casinos like JACKBIT allow anonymous play, protecting player identities and bypassing intrusive verification processes, a major draw for crypto gambling site users.
    • Speed and Efficiency: Cryptocurrency transactions are near-instant, with deposits and withdrawals processed in seconds, compared to days for traditional methods, aligning with instant withdrawal casino expectations.
    • Enhanced Security: Blockchain technology ensures secure, transparent transactions, reducing fraud risks and enhancing trust in the best bitcoin casino platforms.
    • Lower Transaction Costs: Crypto transactions typically have minimal or no fees, maximizing player returns compared to credit card or bank transfer fees.
    • Global Accessibility: Cryptocurrencies bypass regional banking restrictions, making online crypto casinos accessible to players worldwide, regardless of local regulations.
    • Innovative Features: Crypto casinos often integrate provably fair games, allowing players to verify outcomes, a feature that enhances trust in the best online crypto casino platforms.

    These advantages, coupled with JACKBIT’s robust offerings, position it as the leading new crypto casino for 2025, catering to the evolving needs of modern gamblers.

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    The Rise of Crypto Gambling: Why JACKBIT Leads

    The crypto gambling market is experiencing exponential growth, driven by increasing cryptocurrency adoption and demand for privacy-focused gaming. A 2024 report suggests the global crypto gambling market could reach $65 billion by 2027, fueled by the appeal of instant transactions and anonymity. Players are drawn to crypto gambling sites for their ability to bypass traditional banking restrictions, offering flexibility in regions with stringent regulations.

    JACKBIT leads this trend by combining cutting-edge technology with player-centric features. Its no KYC policy addresses privacy concerns, while support for emerging cryptocurrencies like Solana positions it as a forward-thinking best bitcoin casino. The 100% welcome bonus and extensive game library surpass industry standards, providing unmatched value. As crypto adoption continues to rise, JACKBIT’s innovative approach makes it the go-to online crypto casino for players seeking a secure, rewarding experience.

    Tips for Winning Big at JACKBIT

    Maximize your crypto casino experience at JACKBIT with these expert tips:

    • Target High-RTP Games: Play slots like Gates of Olympus (96.50% RTP) or Book of Dead (96.21% RTP) for better long-term returns, boosting your crypto wins.
    • Leverage Bonuses: Use the 100% welcome bonus and free spins to extend playtime—just check the terms to avoid wagering pitfalls and get the most PayID value.
    • Use Crypto for Speed: Deposit and withdraw with Bitcoin or Solana for instant, fee-free transactions, meeting top instant-withdrawal standards.
    • Join Tournaments: Enter the Drops & Wins series for a share of €2,000,000, adding extra excitement to your sessions.
    • Bet Smart on Sports: Research teams and try live betting on NFL or esports, taking advantage of JACKBIT’s 4,500+ betting markets for potentially higher payouts.
    • Set Limits: Enable deposit and loss caps to play responsibly and maintain a sustainable real-money gambling experience.

    JACKBIT Conclusion: The Best Crypto Casino for 2025

    After an exhaustive review of best crypto casinos, JACKBIT stands out as the premier choice for 2025. Its no KYC crypto casino policy, instant crypto withdrawals, and 6,600+ games from top providers create an unmatched gaming experience. The welcome bonus up to 30% Rakeback + No KYC + 100 free spins(No wagering), coupled with ongoing promotions like VIP rakeback and tournaments, delivers exceptional value.

    From high-RTP slots to a comprehensive sportsbook covering 140+ sports, JACKBIT caters to every player. Robust security, 24/7 support, and a mobile-optimized platform ensure reliability and accessibility. For players seeking the best online crypto casino, JACKBIT is the ultimate destination. Join JACKBIT Casino to start your crypto casino journey today!

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    FAQ: Best Crypto Casinos – JACKBIT

    • What makes JACKBIT the best crypto casino?

    JACKBIT offers no KYC, instant withdrawals, 6,600+ games, and a 100% welcome bonus, ideal for privacy and speed.

    • Is JACKBIT safe for players?

    Licensed by Curacao eGaming with SSL encryption, JACKBIT ensures secure transactions and fair play.

    • What cryptocurrencies does JACKBIT support?

    Supports 16+ cryptos, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, and Solana, for fast transactions.

    • How fast are withdrawals at JACKBIT?

    Crypto withdrawals are instant; traditional methods take 1-3 days, aligning with instant withdrawal standards.

    • What games can I play at JACKBIT?

    Enjoy slots, table games, live dealers, and a sportsbook with 140+ sports options.

    • Is there customer support at JACKBIT?

    24/7 live chat and email support ensure prompt assistance for all players.

    • Can I play without KYC at JACKBIT?

    Yes, no KYC is required for crypto users, enhancing privacy.

    • What is the minimum deposit at JACKBIT?

    Typically $10 or equivalent in cryptocurrency for bonus eligibility.

    • Does JACKBIT have a mobile app?

    No app needed; the site is fully mobile-optimized for seamless gaming.

    Email: support@JACKBIT.com

    Disclaimer
    This information is for general and entertainment purposes only—not legal, financial, or gambling advice. Always verify details and follow your local laws. Gambling carries risks; wager responsibly and only what you can afford to lose, and seek help if you feel out of control. Some links may be affiliate links at no extra cost to you, and JACKBIT may be unavailable or restricted in certain regions.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/68009d26-3b0f-4ff8-9835-909a5792746b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump and many GOP lawmakers want to end all funding for NPR and PBS − unraveling a US public media system that took a century to build

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Josh Shepperd, Associate Professor of Media Studies, University of Colorado Boulder

    Cast members of the children’s television show ‘Sesame Street’ pose with Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Grover, Ernie, Bert and Oscar the Grouch in 1969. Hulton Archive/Getty Images

    The Trump administration’s drive to slash government spending on everything from the arts to cancer research also includes efforts to carry through on the Republican Party’s long-standing goal of ending federal funding for NPR, the nation’s public radio network, and PBS, its television counterpart.

    Across the country, 1,500 independent stations affiliated with NPR and PBS air shows such as “Morning Edition,” “Marketplace,” “PBS NewsHour,” “Frontline” and “Nova.” Some 43 million people tune into public radio every week, and over 130 million watch PBS every year, according to the networks.

    Public media stations air local news and, when necessary, emergency information. Most also feature regional, national and global coverage of arts and culture. With commercial media divesting from local news reporting, audiences that have long relied on public media to inform their communities are even more dependent now on that service, as are audiences that got their local news from commercial sources.

    Investigating public media

    Public media is also under attack from the Republican majority in Congress and facing scrutiny from the Federal Communications Commission, the government agency that regulates media.

    Brendan Carr, whom President Donald Trump appointed to lead the FCC, helped draft Project 2025. That’s the conservative blueprint that Trump distanced himself from during the 2024 campaign but has since embraced.

    As proposed in Project 2025, the FCC is examining NPR’s approach to underwriting. Through underwriting, financial support from sponsors is acknowledged on air without asking audiences to form an opinion about a product or make a specific purchase.

    The FCC is investigating whether those messages on NPR and PBS “cross the line into prohibited commercial advertisements.”

    The top executives of NPR and PBS have denied that their underwriting practices violate any regulations or laws.

    At the same time, House Republicans are holding hearings regarding what they say is public media’s “liberal bias.” Their attention is primarily directed at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the nonprofit corporation that stewards federal money that Congress appropriates for NPR and PBS.

    And in a separate move, Trump demanded that CPB “cancel existing direct funding to the maximum extent allowed by law” and “decline to provide future funding” in an executive order issued on May 1, 2025. Trump’s order accused NPR and PBS of bias in its “portrayal of current events to taxpaying citizens.”

    I’m a media historian who wrote a book about the origins of public media in the U.S. and how NPR and PBS contribute to democratic participation. Both networks are designed to provide equal access to information for every listener and viewer.

    In my view, as these efforts to investigate and end the funding of public media proceed, it’s worth revisiting why the Corporation for Public Broadcasting was founded in the first place and to understand how it contributes to equal access to information today.

    Beginning with education

    U.S. public media took root in the 1920s, when public universities built radio stations so that rural communities could receive better access to the kind of education available in cities.

    The first programs consisted of professors and radio hosts giving lectures about history, finance and other subjects such as cooking, quilting and music appreciation.

    Some of those professors believed so strongly in democratic access to media that they built radio stations with their own hands, including one at the University of Wisconsin. In other cases, professors experimented with performing live drama. Ohio State University broadcast the first educational radio Shakespeare performances in the late 1920s.

    Many people liked the programming enough to tune in, but the quality of early educational broadcast experiments was inconsistent. Some professors didn’t understand how to talk with audiences and were criticized for their monotone deliveries.

    Amid threats to its federal funding, PBS reports on the history of U.S. public media.

    Running the ‘bicycle network’

    Interest in improving the quality of educational radio grew once radio ownership became more widespread. Over 500 U.S. stations were on the air in 1940. By 1945, when World War II ended, over 95% of families owned radio receivers.

    Every listener could take correspondence classes. And educators started to research how to make learning through the radio more compelling and fun.

    By the late 1940s, colleges and universities started to pay better attention to making education on the radio both entertaining and informative. They traded their best programs all around the country, through a system they called the “bicycle network.”

    Once national distribution was in place, producers of educational radio and TV shows came to an agreement about their best programs through a group called the National Association of Educational Broadcasters. They landed on formulas now associated with NPR and PBS. Home economics instruction evolved into cooking shows. Interviews with professors became public affairs programs.

    Radio stations started to combine different kinds of programs that spanned an entire school day. A half-hour children’s comedy show now weaved math, storytelling, music and civics. This format laid some of the groundwork for “Sesame Street.”

    In the 1950s a philosophy of public media emerged.

    The National Association of Educational Broadcasters’ members believed that everyone should have equal access to education no matter where they lived. They argued that information they presented should be held to rigorous standards, such as fact-checking and even peer review, the academic practice of verifying research validity.

    Educational broadcasters aired programs for all kinds of audiences, including in communities not served by commercial media.

    To stay focused on their mission, educational broadcasters decided to bar taking money from corporate advertisers. This meant that most money came from state and local governments instead of businesses.

    State authorities were able to make public announcements, quickly report emergencies and provide free airtime for political candidates. State lawmakers also thought that these media outlets could help their constituents learn trades at their own pace.

    Phasing in government funding

    Using broadcasting to provide equal access to education required a lot of new infrastructure.

    By the late 1950s the federal government started to fund the construction of radio towers, transmitters and buildings so that every person could access educational programs via broadcasts. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a law in 1958 that funded educational access because it could contribute to national defense.

    Nearly a decade later, in 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Public Broadcasting Act. That law guaranteed a permanent stream of government funding for educational radio and television. Congress had pivoted from “education” to “public” broadcasting as the medium incorporated a wider array of programs, including BBC shows from the U.K.

    PBS first went live in 1970, and NPR’s first broadcast aired in 1971.

    To buffer NPR and PBS from the influence of political parties and commercial sponsors, the law called for the creation of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

    In addition to receiving and then disbursing to NPR and PBS the federal funds that Congress appropriates for public media, the CPB provides additional grants to stations across the country. Notably, federal funds help to pay for maintaining equipment and studios where public media programs are taped. That is, most government funding for public media is dedicated to maintaining the technology necessary to continue with its mission to provide equal access.

    The rest of the federal money supports the same program development and audience engagement research that started with the National Association of Educational Broadcasters’ “bicycle network.”

    NPR has gotten more sophisticated since it first went on the air in 1971, as CBS News reports.

    Establishing a strong track record

    The CPB model has succeeded by many measures. About 99% of Americans have access to public media through their television sets, car radios, computers and other devices.

    The CPB received $535 million in government funding in the 2025 fiscal year, equal to roughly $1.60 per American. About 70% of that money supports local radio and television stations. Public media costs taxpayers far more elsewhere. A 2022 study found that Germany spends around $142 per person, the U.K. spends $81, and Canada spends over $26 per year.

    The U.S. system is also unusual in that the local affiliates are nonprofits that have to pay for the NPR and PBS programs they run. Like the CPB, NPR and PBS are independent nonprofits, not government agencies.

    Rather than having the federal government foot the whole bill, in the U.S. public media also relies on $1.3 billion in annual charitable donations from viewers, listeners, corporations and foundations. Of that, public media receives $170 million in underwriting, according to a 2023 report.

    But should the federal government end all federal funding for the CPB, their NPR- and PBS-affiliated stations would have more trouble buying, repairing and replacing the transmitters, antennas and websites required to broadcast their programs.

    Losing access to local news

    The CPB has already sued the Trump administration over its attempt to oust three of its board members. The CPB asserts that because it is an independent organization and not a federal agency, the federal government can’t dictate who serves on its board. Trump’s executive order could also be challenged in court. And, as is the case with all executive orders, any future administration could rescind it.

    Most likely, the original target audience of educational radio − rural communities − would feel the biggest impact if the Trump administration does end federal funding of NPR and PBS. That’s because rural areas have few alternatives now that local journalism has been hit hard by corporate cuts to newsrooms.

    Public media’s first century inspired an alternative approach to media other than producing programs that tobacco companies, automakers and other businesses would want to sponsor. How Congress, the FCC and the courts proceed today will influence public media’s reach and practices for the next century.

    Josh Shepperd is under contract to co-author an update of the history of public broadcasting for Current, public media’s trade journal, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Josh is not a paid employee or vendor of either institution.

    – ref. Trump and many GOP lawmakers want to end all funding for NPR and PBS − unraveling a US public media system that took a century to build – https://theconversation.com/trump-and-many-gop-lawmakers-want-to-end-all-funding-for-npr-and-pbs-unraveling-a-us-public-media-system-that-took-a-century-to-build-253206

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A law seeks to protect children from sex offenders − 20 years later, the jury is still out

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Boaz Dvir, Associate Professor of Journalism, Penn State

    Mark Lunsford appears at a July 2005 rally in support of the Children’s Safety Act on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Before his sentencing in March 2025, a convicted child rapist asked for a judgment that would have set him free in 2027. The Kansas resident received 25 years with no chance of parole.

    The reason? Jessica’s Law, which Kansas lawmakers passed in 2006.

    Kansas was one of the first states to follow Florida’s initial enactment of Jessica’s Law 20 years ago in response to the rape and murder of 9-year-old Jessica “Jessie” Lunsford in Homosassa, Florida. Forty-four other states have followed, altering how America polices, punishes and paroles pedophiles.

    Although the law differs in some details from state to state, it generally directs judges to sentence people convicted of sex crimes involving children to a minimum of 25 years. Jessica’s Law also monitors offenders’ movements after prison and strives to keep them away from places where children congregate, such as schools and parks.

    Many policymakers, prosecutors, defense attorneys and judges have protested key aspects of the law. They are particularly opposed to its strict minimum sentencing guidelines, which they’ve described as oversimplified and counterproductive.

    Proponents, however, point to the law’s origins: Jessica’s February 2005 abduction, rape and murder by a repeat, convicted sex offender. They maintain the crime, which riveted the country for months and sent the third grader’s father, Mark, on a national child protection crusade, exposed deep-seated flaws in law enforcement and the legal system that made children around the country vulnerable to sexual assault.

    Jessica’s Law remains mostly intact throughout the country. But it has come under scrutiny and has undergone changes. As a journalism professor who directed a documentary about Lunsford’s efforts to convince politicians to pass the law that bears his daughter’s name, I’ve kept up with its trials and tribulations.

    Twenty years after Florida introduced the law, the jury is still out on whether America’s children are safer as a result.

    ‘Jessie’s Dad’

    In making “Jessie’s Dad,” I filmed Lunsford visiting state capitals and Capitol Hill and interviewed many of his allies and detractors. I also reviewed interrogation footage and newsreels, attended the trial of John Couey – Jessica’s killer – and pored over proposed and passed bills, court transcripts and police records.

    The resulting 2011 documentary highlights the law’s major perceived pros and cons.

    The most glaring of the legal system’s shortcomings before Jessica’s Law, according to Lunsford and other activist groups, was lax treatment by the police and courts. That, they said, allowed many sex offenders who target children to roam free.

    As Lunsford hopscotched from state to state to push for the law’s passage, he often noted that prior to raping and killing Jessie, Couey was convicted twice of molesting children but served only fractions of his sentences.

    “One time they gave him (Couey) a 10-year sentence; he did two years,” Lunsford told me. “One time, he (Couey) broke into a house and assaulted a child, and he would’ve gotten more time had he stolen their silverware.”

    Most of the states that have enacted Jessica’s Law direct judges to sentence child rapists to a minimum of 25 years in prison.

    Besides mandatory minimum sentencing, most states that have passed Jessica’s Law require sex-offender parolees to wear a GPS monitor − something Couey never did.

    Lunsford repeatedly pointed out that an electronic ankle bracelet, which tells the police the location of the person wearing it, could have led the police to Couey’s room in his sister’s trailer across the street from the Lunsford’s mobile home. That’s where Couey kept Jessie for three days before burying her alive in a backyard grave.

    Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appears at an October 2006 news conference urging Californians to support Proposition 83, also known as ‘Jessica’s Law.’ The governor was joined by Mark Lunsford, left, father of Jessica Lunsford.
    Al Seib/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

    ‘Romeo and Juliet’ provisions

    In 2007, soon after Ohio passed its version of the law, Lunsford’s son Josh faced felony charges for fondling his 14-year-old girlfriend. The girl’s mother, who disapproved of their relationship, turned him in as soon as he turned 18 and became an adult in the eyes of the legal system. Josh ended up being charged with a misdemeanor, to which he pleaded guilty. He served 10 days in jail and 12 months under supervised release.

    Reeling from this incident, the elder Lunsford advocated amending Jessica’s Law with so-called Romeo and Juliet provisions. These stipulations typically exempt most young adults from harsh sentencing when the age difference between them and their romantic teen partners adds up to fewer than four or five years.

    Pennsylvania, the second state after Florida to pass Jessica’s Law in 2006, became the first to add a Romeo and Juliet provision in 2011.

    Today, 44 states have likewise adopted similar provisions.

    Legal challenges, too, have revamped parts of Jessica’s Law in some states. In 2015, for instance, California’s Supreme Court ruled the law violated the U.S. Constitution by infringing offenders’ liberty and privacy.

    The law did so, the court determined, by universally ordering registered sex offenders to stay at least 2,000 feet away from schools and other places where children congregate. That meant they could not live within 2,000 feet of a school or places where children gathered.

    Prior to the ruling, the Jessica’s Law residency restriction left many of California’s registered sex offenders with few viable housing options. It thus forced scores of them onto the streets and contributed to the Golden State’s homelessness crisis.

    Critics have also noted it is difficult to monitor homeless pedophiles.

    Although the California Supreme Court ruling technically applied only to San Diego County, it has spurred other parts of the state to restrict residency on a case-by-case basis.

    Electronic tracking

    Another divisive Jessica’s Law stipulation, however, may be too complex to simply modify.

    When included in the original Florida law, electronic tracking appeared to hold great promise.

    Today, 38 additional states electronically monitor sex offenders. Yet many accused and paroled sex offenders wearing ankle bracelets have nonetheless harmed children.

    For instance, David Renz broke free of his GPS monitor in 2013 while awaiting a child pornography trial in New York and raped a fourth grader. He also killed the 10-year-old girl’s protector and school librarian, Lori Bresnahan.

    While others harmed children after cutting off their ankle bracelets, some, like Arkansas resident Leontarius Reed, committed sex crimes while wearing GPS devices. Reed was wearing the device after a previous nonsexual offense.

    Critics claim electronic monitoring numbs society into a misleading state of comfort. Others argue it’s better than losing track of sex offenders. They also say it deters crime and has saved countless lives.

    Despite the widespread adoption of Jessica’s Law, comprehensive research is still needed to measure its impact. Such a project would examine whether America’s children are truly safer now than they were on May 1, 2005.

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

    – ref. A law seeks to protect children from sex offenders − 20 years later, the jury is still out – https://theconversation.com/a-law-seeks-to-protect-children-from-sex-offenders-20-years-later-the-jury-is-still-out-251762

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: From electronic bugs to real ones, methods for listening provide insights into communication and hearing

    Source: US Government research organizations

    A new study by U.S. National Science Foundation-funded researchers on how members of the animal world sense and react to sounds provides insight into adaptations in communication that could be used in the development of adaptable hearing aids or limiting the impact of agricultural pests.

    “By increasing our understanding of how animals perceive and respond to sounds — especially when those sounds are changing — this research could aid in developing hearing aids that automatically tune as a person walks from a movie theater to a crowded restaurant or other adaptive hearing and acoustics devices,” said Jodie Jawor, a program director in the NSF Directorate for Biological Sciences. “It also highlights how agricultural pests can move into an area and capitalize on a new host, harming society in the process — think about a parasite of honeybees that hurts their populations and our food supply.”

    The study focused on the interactions between a species of fly (Ormia ochracea) and Pacific crickets, which are engaged in a sort of sound arms race. The fly can hear the mating chirps of the male cricket and uses the sounds to locate the male, in which the fly lays its eggs. The fly larvae feed on and develop inside of their cricket hosts, eventually killing them when they emerge. Some crickets in Hawaii have responded to this threat by changing the sounds they use to find mates — purring or rattling rather than chirping — but the flies still find them, and the researchers sought to understand how.

    The research team, led by Norman Lee, an associate professor of biology at St. Olaf College, and Robin Tinghitella, an associate professor of biology at the University of Denver, used a series of lab experiments to test if this was a unique counteradaptation by flies in areas where both they and crickets have been introduced or if the flies had always been able to hear the alternative noises but not focused on them, as in their natural habitats such sounds would not have signaled a cricket.  The researchers found  that populations of flies from natural and non-natural habitats could hear the purrs, but the flies from areas where they have been introduced were more active in their response to the sounds. This represents a novel change caused by adaptation to a new environment, knowledge that could support advances in assistive hearing devices for humans and shows the growing number of interactions that drive how species communicate.

    MIL OSI USA News –