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Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI: Helium Evolution Announces Expansion of ENEOS Xplora Financing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES

    CALGARY, Alberta, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helium Evolution Incorporated (TSXV:HEVI) (“HEVI” or the “Company”), a Canadian-based helium exploration company focused on developing assets in southern Saskatchewan, is pleased to announce a $1.8 million expansion of the initial financing of $2.7 million with ENEOS Xplora Inc. (“ENEOS Xplora”) through its affiliated company, ENEOS Xplora USA Limited (“ENEOS USA”), as first announced on March 10, 2025. This expanded investment will bring ENEOS Xplora’s total investment in the Company to $4.5 million. ENEOS Xplora and ENEOS USA are both wholly owned subsidiaries of ENEOS Group, Japan’s largest energy, resources and materials conglomerate with current revenue of $91 billion USD.

    This expanded financing continues to mark a significant milestone in HEVI’s strategic growth trajectory within the helium sector, further strengthening the Company’s financial foundation and unlocking new opportunities for both companies. The deal underscores the Company’s increasing momentum and its position as a leader in the Canadian helium exploration market.

    Private Placement

    HEVI and ENEOS USA have signed an investment agreement (the “Investment Agreement”) that includes a private placement of 9,422,000 units (“Units”) at a price of $0.19 per Unit (the “Offering Price”), for total gross proceeds of $1.8 million (the “Strategic Investor Private Placement”). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share of the Company (each, a “Unit Share”) and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company (each, a “Warrant Share”) at a price of $0.305 for a period of one year from the Closing Date, as defined herein, with an acceleration feature if the closing price over a 30-day period remains at or above $0.57 per common share at any time following the six-month anniversary of the Closing Date.

    Additionally, HEVI plans to conduct a concurrent private placement of 1,000,000 Units at the Offering Price raising approximately $0.2 million (the “Concurrent Private Placement” and together with the Strategic Investor Private Placement, the “Offering”), involving Units sold to insiders of HEVI. Together, these transactions represent a robust investment in the Company’s future growth.

    Following the closing of the Offering, ENEOS USA will own approximately 28% of HEVI’s issued and outstanding shares on a diluted basis as a result of which ENEOS USA will become a Control Person of the Company (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”)). As required by the policies of the TSXV, HEVI intends to seek approval for ENEOS USA to become a Control Person at the Company’s upcoming annual general meeting scheduled for May 21, 2025 (the “Control Person Resolution”).

    The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to fund HEVI’s 2025 exploration and development program and for general corporate purposes. If shareholders approve the Control Person Resolution, the Offering is expected to close on or about May 31, 2025 (the “Closing Date”), subject to requisite approvals by the TSXV. The Unit Shares, Warrants and Warrant Shares issued pursuant to the Strategic Investor Private Placement will be subject to a six month hold period from the Closing Date, in accordance with the terms of the Investment Agreement. Unit Shares, Warrants and Warrant Shares issued pursuant to the Concurrent Private Placement will be subject to a statutory holder period of four months plus one day.

    HEVI’s Remarks

    “We are thrilled to expand our strategic partnership with ENEOS Xplora, a globally recognized leader in energy resources,” said Greg Robb, CEO of HEVI. “This expanded investment further strengthens our position in the helium market, enabling us to accelerate our exploration and development initiatives. With the support of ENEOS, we are poised for significant growth as we work toward becoming a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium to meet the rising global demand.”

    About ENEOS Xplora

    ENEOS Xplora is engaged in the development and production of oil and natural gas in Japan and around the world as one of the principal operating companies of the ENEOS Group, Japan’s largest energy, resources and materials conglomerate.

    In response to the global movement towards carbon neutrality, ENEOS Xplora is promoting a “Two Pronged” approach, through which ENEOS Xplora aims to cultivate and enhance environment-friendly business as well as focus on their conventional oil and natural gas development and production.

    While the safe and stable supply of energy has always been and will continue to be ENEOS Xplora’s mission, in order to create greater social value within the carbon neutral trend, guided by its corporate philosophy, “Explore the EARTH and Create Value” ENEOS Xplora will leverage its subsurface technology and innovative creativity to be a key player working towards a sustainable society.

    1. Company name ENEOS Xplora Inc.
    2. Address ENEOS Building, 1-1-2 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
    3. President Toshiya Nakahara
    4. Capital JPY 37.6 billion
    5. Description of business Exploration for and development of oil, natural gas, and other mineral resources; extraction, processing, storage, sale, and shipment of petroleum, natural gas, and other mineral resources and their secondary products; carbon dioxide capture, transport, storage, and utilization


    About Helium Evolution Incorporated

    Helium Evolution is a Canadian-based helium exploration company holding the largest helium land rights position in North America among publicly-traded companies, focused on developing assets in southern Saskatchewan. The Company has over five million acres of land under permit near proven discoveries of economic helium concentrations which will support scaling the exploration and development efforts across its land base. HEVI’s management and board are executing a differentiated strategy to become a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium for the growing global helium market.

    Stay Connected to Helium Evolution

    Shareholders and other parties interested in learning more about the Helium Evolution opportunity are encouraged to visit the Company’s website, which includes an updated corporate presentation, and are invited to follow the Company on LinkedIn and X for ongoing corporate updates and helium industry information. Helium Evolution also provides an extensive, commissioned ‘deep-dive’ research report prepared by a third party whose background includes serving as a research analyst for several bank-owned and independent investment dealers.

    For further information, please contact:


    Statement     Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

    Forward-looking statements in this document include statements regarding the Company’s expectations regarding the closing of the transactions disclosed in the news release including the completion of the Offering (including the approval of the TSXV and the Control Person Resolution with respect thereto), the use of proceeds from the Offering, the benefits of the strategic partnership to the Company, the Company becoming a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium, ENEOS USA’s ownership of the Company following the Closing Date, the Company’s beliefs regarding growth of the global helium market and other statements that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others: the TSXV may refuse to grant approval of the Offering; the shareholders may not approve the Control Person Resolution; the transactions described in this news release may not close; the Company may reallocate the proceeds of the Offering for reasons that management believes are in the Company’s best interests; the Company may not realize the benefits of the strategic partnership described in this news release; the Company may choose to defer, accelerate or abandon its exploration and development plans; new laws or regulations and/or unforeseen events could adversely affect the Company’s business and results of operations; stock markets have experienced volatility that often has been unrelated to the performance of companies and such volatility may adversely affect the price of the Company’s securities regardless of its operating performance; risks generally associated with the exploration for and production of resources; constraint in the availability of services; commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations; adverse weather or break-up conditions; and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures.

    When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and risks other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    This news release is not for distribution to U.S. news services or for dissemination in the United States. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. 

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cost-of-living relief for Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    There is a comprehensive cost-of-living package included in this year’s Budget.

    The ACT Government is offering continued support to Canberrans most impacted by cost of living pressures.

    Cost of living pressures are being felt across the country and this year’s ACT Budget does more for low-income households.

    Supporting apprentices and trainees

    One initiative is a new, one-off $250 payment to support local apprentices and trainees.

    Apprentices and trainees have a restricted earning capacity while they are obtaining their qualification.

    This payment recognises the financial pressures these Canberrans are facing.

    The ACT Government will contact eligible apprentices and trainees by the end of September. It is not necessary to apply for the payment.

    Assisting families with schooling costs

    The ACT Government is also expanding the Future of Education Equity Fund.

    The Fund has been hugely successful in supporting students and families in need, helping them with the costs of their education.

    Already in 2024, the Future of Education Equity Fund has supported more than 5000 students in Canberra.

    More families will be able to get financial assistance with things like textbooks, music lessons and sporting equipment.

    Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate

    Over 40,000 low-income households in Canberra will also benefit from an increase to the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate.

    The payment will be increased to $800 per year, helping these households with their home energy costs.

    When combined with the $300 Federal Government energy payment, one in five Canberra households will receive $1,100 in assistance towards their energy bills.

    Targeted cost of living support

    These initiatives are part of a comprehensive cost of living package included in this year’s Budget. The package also includes:

    • expanding the Utilities Hardship Fund, including increasing vouchers from $100 to $300, to support more households to change their energy use
    • extending the Rent Relief Fund to support more Canberrans on low incomes who are experiencing rental stress or severe financial hardship
    • expanding public transport concession fares to include Canberrans with a Commonwealth Low-Income Health Care Card, to support more people accessing buses and light rail
    • additional funding to Roundabout Canberra, Scouts ACT, Fearless Women and Women’s Health Matters to support these community organisations to continue delivering essential services to vulnerable Canberrans
    • additional funding for emergency material and financial aid programs and food relief services, to support vulnerable Canberrans in need of food and other necessities
    • increasing assistance through the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, including increasing the subsidy for ride users, further reducing out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable Canberrans
    • increasing the Life Support Rebate to $150 a year, to support more Canberrans using electric life support equipment to treat a life-threatening condition.

    Find more on cost-of-living support at act.gov.au/money-and-tax/cost-of-living-support

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What do medieval puzzles and the New York Times Connections have in common?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Knowles, Lecturer, Western Civilisation Program, Australian Catholic University

    Getty

    The New York Times Connections game asks players to categorise 16 words into four groups of four. For example, in one collection of 16, a category included “blow”, “cat”, “gold” and “sword”: these are all words that might come before “fish”.

    As described by puzzle editor Wyna Liu, completing the puzzle should feel “challenging and satisfying”. Players are encouraged to “think flexibly”. Liu says her job as puzzle designer is “to trick you”.

    Challenging word-based games are not a modern invention.

    In fact, in early medieval England, around the year 1000, there was also a strong appetite for word puzzles designed to entertain (and trick) avid players.

    Gaming in the Middle Ages

    Riddles were very popular in early medieval England.

    Many examples of riddles from this period are in Latin, but a collection of approximately 95 poems, written in Old English and found in a manuscript known as the Exeter Book are the earliest surviving vernacular collection of riddles in Western Europe.

    Compiled around the year 1000, The Exeter Book also includes a variety of poetic works with both religious and secular themes. This, and its location since 1072 in Exeter Cathedral Library, suggests it had a religious audience of monks.

    Take the shortest riddle in the Exeter collection, Riddle 69, included here in both its original Old English form and in translation, thanks to riddles scholar Megan Cavell, one of the creators of the website The Riddle Ages:

    Wundor wearð on wege; wæter wearð to bane.

    There was a wonder on the wave; water turned to bone.

    Early English riddles ask their audience to guess what the different clues point to, usually an object or animal. In Riddle 69, the audience is asked to identify what might be referred to through the metaphor of water turning to bone.

    The solution to this riddle is debated, but most suggestions have to do with ice: ice, icicle, iceberg and frozen pond.

    The Exeter Book is a 10th Century poetry anthology written in Old English.
    Per Se/Flickr, CC BY-SA

    The answer hangs on the various qualities that attach to the word bone: it is hard, difficult to break and can also be long, like an icicle.

    It’s possible to imagine bone and ice linked in a Connections category “things that are tough”.

    Most Old English riddles are a little more complex but still rely on the trickery that comes from word play, metaphor and ambiguity.

    One of the more surprising riddles in the Exeter collection (particularly when we consider the likely monastic audience) is Riddle 45:

    I heard that something was growing in the corner,
    swelling and sticking up, raising its roof.
    A proud bride grasped that boneless thing,
    with her hands. A lord’s daughter
    covered with a garment that bulging thing.

    A series of clues point to possible solutions. The answer will be something that rises, that needs physical touch to grow, and which is covered by cloth.

    The innocently playful solution to this riddle is dough – though it certainly puts another, more vulgar, solution in mind. This innuendo likely added to the entertainment and challenge of the original riddle, teasing its audience with a taboo answer.

    The Exeter Book Riddles does not come with answers. This is both a frustration and a reason for their longevity: modern audiences continue to grapple with possible solutions 1,000 years later.

    It is also possible that part of the entertainment for both medieval and modern audiences is their ambiguity. There are multiple plausible solutions.

    Culture is a game changer

    Part of what makes interpreting the Old English riddles so difficult for modern players is that word puzzles are shaped by the culture in which they were created.

    This cultural coding is obvious in Connections puzzles too. For example on January 3 2025 a category linked American slang words for a dollar, less familiar in other countries: buck, clam, single and smacker.

    Similarly, Old English riddles assume knowledge of aspects of life in early medieval England. For example, Riddle 26 requires an understanding of the processes by which an animal hide became a book.

    Some even rely on knowledge of runic characters to understand their solution; this was an alphabet that was used in England prior to the adoption of the Latin alphabet from the 7th century.

    To truly understand many riddles, you need to know the context in which they were written.
    Getty

    Old English riddles offer an excellent insight into not just the sorts of games and puzzles that entertained early medieval audiences, and continue to entertain us today, but also into domestic life in the period.

    In 1,000 years, Connections puzzles will be harder to guess because players will be unfamiliar with our current way of life. They will also be a type of relic into how minds and culture operated in the early 21st century.

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

    – ref. What do medieval puzzles and the New York Times Connections have in common? – https://theconversation.com/what-do-medieval-puzzles-and-the-new-york-times-connections-have-in-common-250155

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New research shows digital technology is linked to reduced wellbeing in young kids. So what can parents do?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacquelyn Harverson, PhD Candidate, School of Psychology, Deakin University

    Alex Segre/ Shutterstock

    Once upon a time, children fought for control of the remote to the sole family television. Now the choice of screen-based content available to kids seems endless. There are computers, tablets, phones and gaming consoles offering streaming services, online content and apps.

    Children also use devices at school, with digital literacy part of the Australian curriculum from the start of school.

    The speed and scale of this change has left parents, researchers and policymakers scrambling to catch up. And it has inevitably led to concerns about screen use, as well as guidelines about limiting their use.

    Our new study looks at the links between digital technology use and young children’s wellbeing, specifically for those aged four to six.

    Our comprehensive analysis shows children who spend longer periods using digital technologies are more likely to have social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. However, we can’t say at what age or level of screen use these negative effects are likely to become evident.

    But for parents trying to navigate a world where technology is all around us, our study also shows there are things they can do to help their kids use screens in healthier ways.



    Read more:
    Why parents need to be like Big Ted and ‘talk aloud’ while they use screens with their kids

    Our study

    We carried out a systematic review of the research literature on children’s use of digital devices since 2011 (after the Apple iPad was launched). This means we examined all the available peer-reviewed research on digital devices and their impact on wellbeing for children.

    We also focused on ages four to six age as it is a time when children are developing rapidly and beginning school. Other studies have focused on particular types of device. But we included all kinds of digital devices in our search – from televisions to phones, tablets and gaming consoles – to make sure we could provide comprehensive analysis of what kids are using.

    The studies came from 20 countries, including Australia, China, the United States, Turkey, Germany and Canada. They were almost exclusively based on parents’ reports of their children and include more than 83,000 parents.

    Our research also showed the the type of content children consume is important – not just the time it takes.
    Morrowind/Shutterstock

    4 areas of child wellbeing

    From this, we analysed the relationship between children’s technology use and the following four areas:

    1. psychosocial wellbeing: an overall measure that captures children’s happiness, as well as social and emotional adjustment.

    2. social functioning: children’s social skills, including how well they get along with their peers.

    3. the parent-child relationship: the level of closeness or conflict between parents and their children.

    4. behavioural functioning: the absence of behavioural difficulties such as tech-related tantrums, hyperactivity, depression or anxiety.

    We did this with a meta-analysis – a statistical method that uses data from multiple studies to draw conclusions.



    Read more:
    3 ways to help your child transition off screens and avoid the dreaded ‘tech tantrums’

    What we found

    Our analysis found more digital technology use in young children was associated with poorer wellbeing outcomes across the four areas.

    It is important to note correlation doesn’t equal causation. The scope of the research means at this point, it is not possible to identify the exact reasons behind the negative relationships.

    But we do know the more time children spent watching TV, playing on iPads or apps, the more likely they were to have problems with behaviour, social skills, their relationship with their parents, and their emotional wellbeing.

    But tech use is more than just time

    Our research also brought together emerging evidence which shows the relationship between digital tech use and child wellbeing is complex.

    This means the type of content children consume, and the context in which they consume it, can also have a bearing on their wellbeing. The research shows there are several ways parents can guide their children to potentially mitigate the negative links with social, emotional and behavioural wellbeing.

    With this in mind, how can you encourage healthier screen use?

    Our research showed if parents watch with their kids, it can open up opportunities for conversation and interaction.
    Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels, CC BY

    3 tips for kids and screens

    1. Keep an eye on the clock

    The research cannot provide a specific “time limit” for screen use. But you can still be mindful of how much time your child spends on devices both at home and at school – moderation is key.

    Try and mix screen time with other activities, such as time outside or time with friends and family, books or imaginary play.

    2. Seek out quality

    Research shows encouraging high-quality educational content during screen use may curb negative links between tech use and wellbeing.

    Consider swapping fast-paced cartoons and time spent on lots of short clips with educational viewing, for example ABC kids programs that promote learning.

    Introduce your child to age-appropriate educational and interactive games that challenge them and encourage them to be creative.

    3. Use tech together

    Tech time isn’t just for kids – parents can also join in.

    Solo tech use may reduce opportunities for positive social interactions. But watching or playing with friends or family opens up opportunities for conversation, working together and learning.

    This could include watching a movie together and talking about the characters, working on an online puzzle together or learning new coding skills together.

    Jacquelyn Harverson is affiliated with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    Louise Paatsch receives funding from Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child

    Sharon Horwood is affiliated with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    – ref. New research shows digital technology is linked to reduced wellbeing in young kids. So what can parents do? – https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-digital-technology-is-linked-to-reduced-wellbeing-in-young-kids-so-what-can-parents-do-253637

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Catskill Region Airport Upgrade Nearly Complete

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the project to transform the Sullivan County International Airport into a modern, state-of-the-art gateway that will fuel economic growth and tourism in the Catskill Region is in its final stages and on track for completion this spring. The project, which started in March 2023, was awarded $18.5 million from the Governor’s $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, with the funding administered by the New York State Department of Transportation. Under construction is a modern, 15,000-square-foot, energy-efficient terminal facility that will replace an outdated, mid-20th-century building and provide an inviting space for visitors, local businesses and community members alike.

    “Our airports serve as vital gateways to our communities that invite visitors and drive local economies by facilitating tourism and generating opportunities for business development,” Governor Hochul said. “The ongoing transformation happening at Sullivan County International Airport and the eight other airports that received funding from our revitalization initiative sends a signal that our upstate cities and towns are open for business and available for community members and visitors to explore, enjoy and return to again and again.”

    Sullivan County International Airport is among nine Upstate airports receiving a share of $230 million in Governor Hochul’s latest round of Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition funding announced in September 2022. This funding is not only upgrading New York’s Upstate airports, but it is also enhancing their ability to compete on the national and global aviation stage.

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “With the final touches currently underway, the brand-new Sullivan County International Airport stands as a remarkable testament to Governor Hochul’s vision to elevate our Upstate airports to meet the expectations of 21st century travel. This stunning facility, complete with modern amenities including sustainable and cost-effective building features, is poised to emerge as a vibrant new gateway to the Catskill Region, broadening tourism and business opportunities in this historic and breathtaking region of New York State.”

    Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay said, “The upgrades at the Sullivan County International Airport due to the Governor’s Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition Funding have been greatly needed and greatly anticipated. This project provides 260 new jobs for the hardworking people of Sullivan County, at a time when we are still reeling over the loss of 300 jobs at the PepsiCo plant in Liberty. These improvements, with its proximity to the Bethel Woods Center for the Performing Arts, the Monticello Motor Club, and Resorts World Catskills, will lead to increased tourism. I look forward to this new and revitalized airport and the positive impact it will have on Sullivan County and our region.”

    Opened in 1969, the terminal at Sullivan County International Airport, situated in White Lake near the village of Monticello and 90 miles from New York City, has long been a vital connector to the Catskill Mountains Region. Located near the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival — now home to the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts — the airport links artists, entertainers and visitors to various cultural events and shows at the Center and other popular attractions in the area, including the popular Bagel Festival, numerous classic car shows and the breathtaking natural landscape of the area.

    The new spacious interior of the new structure will feature cost-effective laminated timber beams, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that create a wide-open, sunlit interior, affording visitors with panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and airport runway. The outdated, inefficient furnace has been replaced by an all-electric HVAC system utilizing high-efficiency heat pumps integrated with geothermal wells. A new restaurant and bar area, and an adjoining deck that overlooks the runway, lobby and outdoor patio will enhance the experience for today’s modern travelers and members of the public. A pilot’s lounge will cater to passengers and private aircraft users. Office spaces will also be available for aviation-related businesses, such as car rentals, and a new conference room will be accessible for various businesses, organizations and public use.

    The project is creating about 260 jobs. Work on the airport is on track for completion this Spring with improvements that include:

    • New and improved restrooms
    • Upgraded heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
    • Geothermal wells to provide heating/cooling systems for terminal building
    • Upgraded terminal insulation, including windows and doors, to improve energy efficiency
    • Solar panels installation
    • Creation of pilot lounge, conference office areas and pilot planning areas
    • New furniture, fixtures and equipment
    • Replacement/upsizing of the existing septic system
    • Upgraded fire suppression water tank and pump distribution system
    • New electrical vehicle charging stations
    • Repaved and striped main parking lot

    In September 2022, Governor Hochul announced $230 million in awards to nine Upstate airports for revitalization projects that reimagine and further modernize airports across Upstate New York. The Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition is administered by the New York State Department of Transportation and was open to Upstate commercial passenger service airports and airports providing specialized service for commercial aircraft and/or corporate jets. Applicants were encouraged to apply for funding for a single project or a program of projects to help meet the demands of the 21st century. Projects submitted for review by eligible airports were evaluated based on established criteria, including but not limited to innovation in design, passenger amenities and experience, operational efficiencies and economic effectiveness for the airport’s region. In addition to Sullivan County International Airport, other awardees include: Albany International Airport, Watertown International Airport, Saratoga County Airport, Syracuse Hancock International Airport, Ogdensburg International Airport, Greater Binghamton Airport, Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport and the Adirondack Regional Airport.

    About the Department of Transportation
    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment and supports the economic well-being of New York State.
    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Innventure, Inc. to Announce Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results on April 11

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ORLANDO, Fla., April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innventure, Inc. (NASDAQ: INV) (“Innventure”), a differentiated technology commercialization platform, today announced it will release its fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results before market open on Friday, April 11, 2025. Management will host a conference call on the day of the release (April 11, 2025) at 11:00 am ET to discuss the results.

    The event will be webcasted live via our investor relations website https://ir.innventure.com/ or via this link.

    Parties interested in joining via teleconference can register using this link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIf41bc3411b8f4b8c935d6895015728c1     

    After registering, you will be provided dial in details and a unique dial-in PIN. Registration is open through the live call, but to ensure you are connected for the full call, we suggest registering in advance.

    About Innventure
    Innventure founds, funds, and operates companies with a focus on transformative, sustainable technology solutions acquired or licensed from multinational corporations. Innventure takes what it believes to be breakthrough technologies from early evaluation to scaled commercialization utilizing an approach designed to help mitigate risk as it builds disruptive companies it believes have the potential to achieve a target enterprise value of at least $1 billion. Innventure defines ‘‘disruptive’’ as innovations that have the ability to significantly change the way businesses, industries, markets and/or consumers operate.

    Media Contact: Laurie Steinberg, Solebury Strategic Communications
    press@innventure.com

    Investor Relations Contact: Sloan Bohlen, Solebury Strategic Communications
    investorrelations@innventure.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sprout Social to Announce First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on May 8, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sprout Social, Inc. (“Sprout Social”, the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SPT), an industry-leading provider of cloud-based social media management software, today announced that it will report its financial results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2025 after market close on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

    The financial results and business highlights will be discussed on a conference call and webcast scheduled at 4:00 p.m. Central Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Online registration for this event conference call can be found at https://registrations.events/direct/Q4I191310. The live webcast of the conference call can be accessed from Sprout Social’s investor relations website at http://investors.sproutsocial.com.

    Following completion of the events, a webcast replay will also be available at http://investors.sproutsocial.com for 12 months.

    About Sprout Social

    Sprout Social is a global leader in social media management and analytics software. Sprout’s intuitive platform puts powerful social data into the hands of approximately 30,000 brands so they can deliver smarter, faster business impact. Named the #1 Best Software Product by G2’s 2024 Best Software Award, Sprout offers comprehensive publishing and engagement functionality, customer care, influencer marketing, advocacy, and AI-powered business intelligence. Sprout’s software operates across all major social media networks and digital platforms. For more information about Sprout Social (NASDAQ: SPT), visit sproutsocial.com.

    Availability of Information on Sprout Social’s Website and Social Media Profiles

    Investors and others should note that Sprout Social routinely announces material information to investors and the marketplace using SEC filings, press releases, public conference calls, webcasts and the Sprout Social Investors website. We also intend to use the social media profiles listed below as a means of disclosing information about us to our customers, investors and the public. While not all of the information that the Company posts to the Sprout Social Investors website or to social media profiles is of a material nature, some information could be deemed to be material. Accordingly, the Company encourages investors, the media, and others interested in Sprout Social to review the information that it shares at the Investors link located at the bottom of the page on www.sproutsocial.com and to regularly follow our social media profiles. Users may automatically receive email alerts and other information about Sprout Social when enrolling an email address by visiting “Email Alerts” in the “Shareholder Services” section of Sprout Social’s Investor website at https://investors.sproutsocial.com/.

    Social Media Profiles:
    www.twitter.com/SproutSocial
    www.twitter.com/SproutSocialIR
    www.facebook.com/SproutSocialInc
    www.linkedin.com/company/sprout-social-inc-/
    www.instagram.com/sproutsocial

    Contact

    Media:
    Kaitlyn Gronek
    Email: pr@sproutsocial.com
    Phone: (866) 878-3231

    Investors:
    Alex Kurtz
    Twitter: @SproutSocialIR
    Email: investors@sproutsocial.com
    Phone: (312) 528-9166

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: It’s not just about hearing: Why getting help for hearing loss is also a psychological journey

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Bill Hodgetts, Audiology Professor, Dept of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine., University of Alberta

    What most people don’t realize is that hearing loss taxes your brain. (Shutterstock)

    When people think about hearing loss, they picture someone turning up the TV too loud or saying “what?” a lot. But what I’ve learned in more than 20 years as an audiologist is that hearing loss is rarely just about the ears.

    It’s also about identity, emotion and effort. And for many people, that’s the harder part.

    As a clinician and university professor, I’ve worked with hundreds of people who hesitated to seek help — not because they couldn’t afford it, or didn’t have access to care, but because doing so meant admitting something they weren’t ready to accept: that something fundamental had changed.

    They were afraid of what that change said about them. About aging. About control. About being “that person” with hearing aids.

    I’ve come to believe that hearing loss is as much a psychological journey as a medical one. And maybe if more people understood that, they’d feel less alone and more willing to take the first step.

    The brain has to work harder when hearing declines

    Hearing loss doesn’t flip a switch from “normal” to “not hearing.” It’s slow, creeping. You start asking people to repeat themselves. You feel exhausted after social events. You laugh along with jokes you didn’t quite catch. You start withdrawing from the edges of conversations, and eventually from the conversations themselves.

    What most people don’t realize is that hearing loss taxes your brain. Imagine trying to read a book in a dim room. You can do it, but it takes more concentration. That’s what listening is like for people with hearing loss, especially in noisy environments. The brain works overtime to fill in the blanks.

    People with hearing loss start withdrawing from the edges of conversations, and eventually from the conversations themselves.
    (Shutterstock)

    Over time, this constant strain leads to mental fatigue and reduced cognitive capacity for other things, like memory and decision-making.

    It’s not just a guess — neuroimaging and longitudinal studies show it. In fact, large-scale research like the ACHIEVE study, a randomized controlled trial led by Johns Hopkins researchers, found that treating hearing loss in older adults at risk for cognitive decline reduced global cognitive deterioration by nearly 50 per cent over three years.

    The effect was strongest among participants with increased risk due to lower cognitive reserve and higher social vulnerability.

    This isn’t because hearing loss causes dementia directly. Rather, the constant cognitive strain, combined with the social withdrawal that often accompanies hearing loss, creates conditions where the brain is less stimulated, less resilient and more vulnerable over time.

    Psychology plays a bigger role than most people realize

    So if hearing loss affects the brain and well-being, why don’t more people get help? This is where psychology enters the room.

    Humans are emotional decision-makers. We think we’re rational, but in reality, we rely heavily on feelings, assumptions and mental short-cuts. In fact, behavioural research has shown that even trained clinicians can make inconsistent choices when emotions or personal beliefs come into play.

    One of the strongest forces I see in clinic is cognitive dissonance. That’s the uncomfortable feeling when our beliefs don’t match our actions. For example, someone might believe they’re independent and capable, but needing hearing aids makes them feel dependent or “old.” That internal conflict can lead to denial, resistance and even anger.

    Another common obstacle is self-efficacy — our belief in our ability to do something. I’ve met people who are successful in business or leadership but feel completely overwhelmed by the idea of managing hearing technology. Their fear isn’t the device — it’s failing at something unfamiliar.

    Even the way people think about memory and aging can be distorted. If you forget a word in your 40s, you joke about being busy. If it happens in your 60s or 70s, you fear it’s a sign of decline. Add hearing loss to the mix, and that fear amplifies.

    That’s why the stories we tell ourselves — and the ones society tells us — matter.

    Being truly heard

    The first audiology appointment isn’t just about a hearing test. It’s a conversation. We talk about how hearing loss is affecting your life: your relationships, your work, your confidence. We explore goals, concerns and what matters most to you.

    If you’re struggling to hear, get your hearing checked — even if it’s just to get a baseline.
    (Shutterstock)

    Sometimes, people expect to leave with a hearing aid and a fix. But managing hearing loss is a process, not a transaction. It takes time to adjust. Your brain has to relearn sounds it hasn’t heard clearly in a long time. That can be jarring, but also profoundly empowering.

    This is why the relationship between clinician and client matters so much. Research consistently shows the most important factor in successful counselling — whether it’s for hearing or anything else — is trust. When people feel safe, valued and understood, they’re more open to trying, adapting and growing.

    Not weakness, but wisdom.

    I often say that hearing aids are like umbrellas. They don’t stop the rain, but they help you stay dry. Similarly, hearing aids won’t reverse hearing loss or prevent aging. But they can reduce the strain of listening. They can help you stay socially connected. They can improve quality of life.

    And as the ACHIEVE study reinforces, the cognitive benefits of intervention, especially those that are at a greater risk for cognitive decline, are not hypothetical — they’re real. When we help people hear better, we’re not just improving their social lives. We’re reducing their risk of accelerated brain decline.

    Even if hearing aids didn’t offer cognitive protection, they’d still be worth it: for the joy of conversation, the ability to be present and the chance to fully participate in life.

    I know it can be hard to ask for help. But getting help doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you value connection. It means you want to stay involved. It means you’re taking control.

    So here’s what I hope people take away: if you’re struggling to hear, get your hearing checked — even if it’s just to get a baseline.

    If you’re offered treatment, give yourself time to adjust. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress.

    If you know someone who’s pulling away socially, talk to them. Hearing loss is invisible, but its effects are not.

    And if you’re wearing hearing aids already, congratulations — you’re doing something incredibly proactive for your brain, your relationships and your future.

    As audiologists, we don’t just fix ears — we help people reconnect with their world. And that’s something worth hearing.

    Bill Hodgetts has received funding from various government agencies and foundations for his work including Mitacs, Western Economic Partnership Agreement, Oticon Foundation and others.

    – ref. It’s not just about hearing: Why getting help for hearing loss is also a psychological journey – https://theconversation.com/its-not-just-about-hearing-why-getting-help-for-hearing-loss-is-also-a-psychological-journey-253730

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIA AND UZBEKISTAN SHARE TIMELESS TIES OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Source: Government of India

    INDIA AND UZBEKISTAN SHARE TIMELESS TIES OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    INDIA AND UZBEKISTAN NEED TO DEEPEN COLLABORATION IN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, RENEWABLE ENERGY, AND PEACEFUL NUCLEAR ENERGY: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    INDIA UPHOLDS UNIVERSAL ETHOS OF ‘VASUDHAIVA KUTUMBAKAM’ AND ‘SARVJAN HITAY’: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT OF UZBEKISTAN

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER MEETS PRESIDING OFFICERS OF PARTICIPATING PARLIAMENTS IN TASHKENT ON THE SIDELINES OF THE 150TH ASSEMBLY OF IPU

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER AND MEMBERS OF INDIAN DELEGATION PAY FLORAL TRIBUTES AT THE BUST OF FORMER PRIME MINISTER SHRI LAL BAHADUR SHASTRI IN TASHKENT

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 11:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today said that India and Uzbekistan share timeless ties of history and heritage.  He emphasized that this age-old cooperation between the two countries need to be expanded in emerging fields like digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and nuclear energy, alongside traditional sectors. Shri Birla made these remarks during his meeting with the President of Uzbekistan, H.E. Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in Tashkent on the sidelines of the 150th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union, today.

    Underlining India’s ancient democratic traditions, Shri Birla mentioned that guided by the Constitution, India has continually expanded its democratic values and prioritized social inclusion. He added that India has strengthened democracy at the grassroots level by ensuring 33 percent reservation for women in its local level governance. Shri Birla informed that by introducing the “Nari Shakti Vandan Act” as the first law in the new Parliament building, India not only reiterated its commitment to its democratic ethos but also ensured greater representation of women in state and central legislatures. 

    Shri Birla observed that India the values of “VasudhaivaKutumbakam” (The World is One Family) and “SarvajanHitaya” (For the Welfare of All) are inseparable part of Indian tradition and the Constitution of India is also inspired by these values. Mentioning that last year, India marked the completion of 75 of Constitution, Shri Birla noted that the numerous enabling laws passed by the Indian Parliament have been pivotal in realizing wide ranging socio-economic changes in India.

    Stressing on the elevation of Indo-Uzbek relationship to a Strategic Partnership and the addition of new dimensions in recent years, Shri Birla underlined that both nations have strengthened cooperation in various areas like, economy, defense, education, and trade. He noted India is now one of Uzbekistan’s 10 largest trade partners. Shri Birla also highlighted the importance of increasing Parliamentary cooperation between the two Parliaments to exchange ideas on mutual interests and strengthen people-to-people contacts. He proposed promoting parliamentary exchanges in order to help both countries’ officials better understand each other’s systems and best practices.

    In addition, Shri Birla appreciated the growing interest in Indian culture in Uzbekistan, particularly in music, dance, and yoga, as well as the increasing number of Indian students in Uzbek educational institutions. He expressed confidence that this meeting would enhance the diplomatic and parliamentary relations between India and Uzbekistan, marking a new chapter in their collaborative efforts.

    Shri Birla and members of Indian delegation also paid floral tributes at the bust of the former Prime Minister of India Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri in Tashkent. 

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CONGRATULATES UZBEKISTAN FOR SUCCESSFULLY HOSTING 150TH IPU ASSEMBLY

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla also met Chairperson of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan, H.E. Ms. Tanzila Norbaeva in Tashkent on Sunday on the sidelines of the 150th IPU. He congratulated the Chairperson for successfully hosting the Assembly and for the warm welcome accorded to the Indian Parliamentary Delegation. Mentioning Uzbekistan’s progress in various sectors, Shri Birla highlighted the growing and strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Uzbekistan.

    Shri Birla noted that both countries share deep historical connections and have fostered collaboration in various multilateral forums such as the SCO, the UN, and BRICS. Shri Birla also emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in emerging fields like digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and nuclear energy, alongside traditional sectors.

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS FOR EXPANDING COOPERATION BETWEEN THE PARLIAMENTS OF INDIA AND ISRAEL

    A day before at Tashkent, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla held a bilateral meeting with Speaker of the Israeli Knesset (Parliament) H.E. Mr. Amir Ohana. On this occasion, Shri Birla fondly recalled the pleasant memories of their previous meeting in New Delhi in April 2023 and acknowledged Mr. Ohana’s extraordinary contributions to Israel’s development.

    He highlighted the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Israel, based on shared democratic values and mutual aspirations. He added that both countries have strengthened their ties through high level leadership meetings and collaborative efforts in various sectors, such as technology, agriculture, and defense. He commended the establishment of a parliamentary friendship group between India and Israel, recognizing it as a significant step toward enhancing parliamentary cooperation.

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS FOR REGULAR DIALOGUES AND SHARING BEST PRACTICES BETWEEN PARLIAMENTS OF INDIA AND KAZAKHSTAN

    On Sunday, on the sidelines of the 150th IPU Assembly, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla held a bilateral meeting with the Chairperson of the Mazhilis of Kazakhstan H.E. Mr. YerlanKoshanov. Shri Birla at the congratulated Kazakhstan on the 30th anniversary of its Constitution and highlighted that India also celebrated 75 years of the adoption of its Constitution the previous year, marking a significant milestone in both countries’ democratic journeys.

    He also emphasized that India’s progress in the past 75 years has been guided by constitutional values aimed at building a welfare state. Shri Birla proposed that the parliaments of India and Kazakhstan establish regular dialogues to exchange best practices and enhance cooperation. He acknowledged the growing political and economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in defense, security, digital technology, energy, and space.

    ***

    AM

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Waves Beneath, Trains Above: The New Pamban Bridge

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 6:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Imagine sitting in the all-new Rameswaram-Tambaram train service by the window. The salty breeze brushes your face, and all you see is the endless stretch of the sea. Just as the waves begin to lull you into a trance, a stunning steel structure appears, the kind one watches in the movies. It’s the new Pamban Bridge, and it is unlike anything India has ever built before.

    The Pamban Strait, which separates the Indian mainland from Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu, is now home to an impressive engineering marvel, as India’s first vertical-lift railway sea bridge. Replacing the iconic but aging 110-year-old Pamban bridge, this new structure is more than just metal and bolts, but a symbol of how history and progress can flow together.

    What is a Vertical-Lift Railway Sea Bridge?

    Imagine a bridge that trains use to go across the sea. Sometimes, big boats need to pass through the same area where the bridge is. A vertical-lift railway sea bridge is a special kind of bridge that can lift up in the middle, just like an elevator going up, so the boats can safely go underneath it.

    Once the boat passes, the bridge comes back down so the train can continue its journey. It’s a moving bridge that helps both trains and boats go their way without getting in each other’s path.

     

    From Legacy to Modernity

    The original Pamban Bridge was a feat of its time. Inaugurated in 1914, it stood as a proud lifeline connecting pilgrims and traders to the sacred island of Rameswaram. But over the years, time and tides wore it down. Harsh marine conditions, heavy winds, and salt-laden air pushed it to its limits.

    That’s when the idea of a new, stronger, and smarter bridge took root.

    About 27 meters north of the old bridge now stands its younger, mightier counterpart, stretching 2.07 kilometers across the sea. What makes this bridge truly special is its 72.5-meter-long vertical lift span, a first for Indian Railways. This means when a ship wants to pass, the central section of the bridge can rise up by 17 meters, letting vessels glide through with ease. It’s like watching a piece of the bridge float into the sky.

    However, building it wasn’t easy.

    Engineers had to deal with choppy waters, tricky winds, and a seabed that tested every calculation. Materials were shipped, welded, and lifted with extreme care.

    The new bridge isn’t just smart, but is also built to last. Its foundation is laid deep with over 330 massive piles, frame made with stainless steel reinforcements, and it’s painted with special marine-resistant coatings to survive the salty air. The bridge is also built with the future in mind. While it currently supports one railway track, the foundation is strong enough for two, ready for whatever tomorrow brings.

    More Than Metal

    But this bridge isn’t just about engineering. The bridge carries a deep cultural significance. According to the Ramayana, the construction of Ram Setu was initiated from Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram. For pilgrims, it offers faster and safer travel to Rameswaram. For locals, it promises better connectivity and economic opportunity. And for the rest of India, it’s a proud reminder of what we can achieve.

    Behind the grandeur of the new Pamban Bridge, lies smart technology working silently. A three-cup anemometer constantly monitors wind speed. If it crosses 58 kmph, it triggers an automatic red signal, halting trains to ensure safety. Meanwhile, in the control room at sea, an Atmospheric Water Generator converts air humidity into clean drinking water for on-site staff. Together, these innovations quietly safeguard lives and support the people who keep the bridge running.

    So the next time you take that train, let the sea breeze carry you into a moment of reflection. As you cross the new Pamban Bridge, you’re not just moving over water, you’re passing through time, legacy, and innovation. Beneath the waves lies a century of stories, and above them, a promise of India’s future. This bridge is more than an engineering marvel- it connects people, culture and dreams. In its silent strength and graceful rise, it reminds us that progress isn’t just about building new, but also about honoring the old and carrying it forward with pride.

    References:

    Click here to see in PDF

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kritika Rane

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Top 5 Winners of TruthTell Hackathon Announced Ahead of Upcoming WAVES Summit 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Top 5 Winners of TruthTell Hackathon Announced Ahead of Upcoming WAVES Summit 2025

    Teams Unicron, Alchemist, Whooshing Liars, Bug Smashers and Vortex Squad Win Rs.10 lakh for pioneering AI solutions to combat misinformation

    From AI verification tools to detection systems for manipulated media, these innovations will be showcased at the WAVES Summit 2025 in Mumbai, scheduled for 01May to 04 May

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 7:19PM by PIB Delhi

    India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), today announced the top five winners of the TruthTell Hackathon — a global challenge to combat misinformation and manipulated media through technology. This Hackathon is part of the ‘Create in India Challenge’ for the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025. The winners were felicitated at a showcase event held at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, where the top 25 shortlisted innovators demonstrated their working prototypes to a panel of industry experts.

    Selected from over 5,600 registrations from across the globe, the following five winning innovators won a cumulative cash prize of INR 10 lakhs:

    • Team Unicron from Delhi won for their innovative work – Anvesha, in detecting misinformation across text, images, and videos.
    • Team Alchemist from Dehradun was recognized for VeriStream: Fact-First in Every Frame, a holistic solution that uses LangChain-powered NLP, dynamic knowledge graphs, GIS insights, and Explainable AI to detect and correct misinformation in live broadcasts.
    • Team Whooshing Liars from Bengaluru received the award for Nexus of Truth, an AI-powered tool designed to detect deepfakes, fact-check news articles, and flag false content in real time, with multilingual support and live-streaming alerts.
    • Team Bug Smashers from Delhi was awarded for Live Truth: AI Powered Misinformation Detector, a solution that combines local Large Language Models (LLM) and fact-checking APIs to provide real-time credibility scores, along with community-driven validation through GPS-based SMS verification during live broadcasts.
    • Team Vortex Squad from Bengaluru won for Real-Time Misinformation Detection and Fact-Checking System, an AI-driven tool that addresses the challenge of detecting and flagging misinformation during live events, ensuring accuracy and transparency in real time.

    Each of these teams demonstrated innovative approaches aimed at improving media integrity and combating misinformation during live broadcasts. Their solutions, ranging from AI verification tools to manipulated media detection systems, will now be showcased at the upcoming WAVES Summit in Mumbai from 1–4 May 2025. The hackathon forms part of the WAVES 2025 to promote responsible innovation in the media and technology landscape.

    The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & IT and CEO, IndiaAI Mission, and Shri Sanjiv Shankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. The distinguished jury for the TruthTell Hackathon Grand Finale included Shri. Jeet Vijayvargiya, Former CEO, MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), Shri. Vikram Malhotra, Director – AI Tech Strategist at Microsoft India, Shri. Alok Gurtu, Managing Partner at ABG Venture Partners, Dr. Avik Sarkar, Senior Researcher & Visiting Faculty at the Indian School of Business (ISB), and Shri Shashank Vaishnav, Co-Founder & CTO, STAGE.

    Speaking at the event, Mr. Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA, said, ‘India has long witnessed the power of rumour – from village folklore to misguided beliefs and in today’s digital age, misinformation doesn’t walk – it flies. Therefore, stepping into the digital realm to tackle the issue of misinformation is now more crucial than ever. The rapid spread of falsehoods, especially in this digital age, presents a serious challenge. However, with the bright and innovative minds we have here today — including a remarkable 36% female participation — I am confident we will create robust, future-ready solutions. These aren’t just prize-winning ideas; they are blueprints for how India can lead the world in building ethical, AI-driven solutions for complex digital threats.”

    Further congratulating the winners, Mr. Mohindroo said that the journey of the winners is just beginning and he looks forward to seeing their solutions make a real-world impact. He also stated that the ideas presented during the TruthTell Hackathon will continue to push boundaries and lead AI innovation on the global stage.

    Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & IT, GoI, stated, “In an era where AI can convincingly mimic voices, images, and even entire identities, distinguishing fact from fiction has become a pressing challenge. The TruthTell Hackathon is a significant step in addressing this issue, and I commend all the participants for their efforts in developing innovative solutions. The work being done here will contribute immensely to combating the spread of misinformation and protecting society from its harmful consequences. We are committed to supporting initiatives like this, which empower the nation to leverage AI for responsible innovation. I believe these solutions will not only be valuable to India but will also play an essential role in the global fight against misinformation.”

    Congratulating ICEA for organising this hackathon, Shri Singh said that through this hackathon we are investing in preserving trust – currency of our digital future and expressed hope that the top 5 winners will further develop the best solutions to combat misinformation.

    Shri Sanjiv Shankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, GoI, said, “The TruthTell Hackathon is a vital step towards addressing the challenges posed by misinformation in today’s digital age. As one of 32 challenges under ‘Create in India Challenge,’ this initiative brings together young innovators from across the globe to solve one of the most significant issues affecting the media and entertainment industry. Misinformation can derail societal harmony and disrupt lives, which is why it’s crucial for us to find technological solutions that can flag false content in real-time. I congratulate all the participants for their impressive ideas and encourage them to keep innovating. We look forward to seeing these solutions presented at WAVES 2025, where they will be showcased to an international audience, potentially influencing the future of responsible media. Together, we can shape a more informed, secure digital ecosystem for the future.”

    Launched in October 2024, the TruthTell Hackathon received over 450 unique idea submissions from students and professionals across 300+ cities, with 36% of participants being women. After multiple rounds of screening and mentorship, 25 finalists were selected to participate in the on-ground finale in Delhi. They represent the incredible energy of India’s youth – from Coimbatore to Chandigarh, and from Bangalore to Bhopal.

    Supported by the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY), and the IndiaAI Mission, the TruthTell Hackathon aligns with the Government of India’s broader vision to promote ethical AI and strengthen trust in digital ecosystems through innovation-led problem solving by done India’s young population.

    For more information, visit https://icea.org.in/truthtell

    About ICEA

    ICEA is the premier industry association that works with electronics and technology companies in India. Our vision is to transform India into a global technology powerhouse by fostering seamless integration between hardware and software capabilities. Through our leadership, we are building a dynamic ecosystem that champions innovation and drives excellence.

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Dharmendra Tewari / Navin Sreejith | 87

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ninja Theory celebrates 11BAFTA Games Awards nominations for Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Ninja Theory celebrates 11BAFTA Games Awards nominations for Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

    But today, we wanted to shine a light on Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, which picked up a staggering 11 nominations across a wide variety of categories, covering practically every element of the art of making games, and beyond. It’s a major moment for developer Ninja Theory (which previously picked up 9 nominations, winning in 5 categories, for Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice), a testament to the hard work and care that went into creating this singular experience.

    To celebrate this moment, we spoke to developers across the studio about the work that went into their nominated category, and what it means to see this recognition.

    [embedded content]

    Animation

    “The whole animation team was thrilled to be specifically recognised in the Animation category. We’re glad that all the hard work, love and specific vision for Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II has been received so well.

    “Our aim was to bring Senua, her cohort and adversaries to life as vividly as possible , whether it was the up-close nuance of an intimate moment between friends or life and death struggle against her deepest fears.”

    Guy Midgley, Ninja Animation Director

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    Artistic Achievement

    “The team at Ninja Theory has always had such a passion for taking the art to new places in our games, but to have the recognition from BAFTA is incredible and means so much to everyone here.

    “For Senua’s Saga we learnt so much on the journey, whether it was getting to grips with new features of UE5 and understanding how they could allow us to present our vision like never before, working with costume designers to build the real-life outfits for us to scan and understand their movements, or training how to fly professional drones so that we could capture meaningful data from the beauty of the Iceland landscape.”

    Mark Slater-Tunstill, Ninja VFX Director

    Audio Achievement

    “To bring to life the world, the reality of Senua through sound is a privilege, a journey that requires a strong vision and a certain bravery that leads to finding a unique voice.

    “Receiving this nomination brings a lot of joy to the whole Ninja audio team, who have worked tirelessly and with such craftsmanship to deliver an experience like no other.”

    David García Díaz, Ninja Audio Director

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    British Game

    “We’re very proud to receive a nomination for Best British Game and have Hellblade II sit alongside such a diverse and creative group of nominees in the category. Best British Game is a particularly special category for me, as I see it as a vehicle for inspiring the next generation of developers in my home country.

    “I like to think that there will be a kid out there somewhere that will see the wonderful games being created in the UK and it will spark in them a dream to one day feel the same pride that I do in receiving a BAFTA nomination of their own.”

    Dom Matthews, Ninja Studio Head

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    [embedded content]

    Game Beyond Entertainment

    “In Senua’s Saga, Ninja Theory have represented one of the most misunderstood of conditions with incredible skill, respect and sensitivity. Their depiction of psychosis was crafted with unerring attention to the underlying clinical neuroscience and, more importantly, to the personal experiences of those who have themselves carried the burden of psychosis.

    “Ninja Theory have told the story, and amplified the voice, of people who are frequently unheard or dismissed. It has been an enormous privilege to play a small part in their work and to observe the depth and range of its impact in challenging stigma.”

    Paul Fletcher, Bernard Wolfe Professor of Health Neuroscience, University of Cambridge

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    Music

    “To tell a story without words that connects the emotions with the listener, that is the quest of all the musicians involved in the creation of the soundtrack for the game.

    “At the core of it is the word ‘collaboration’: From Heilung, Ren and Arunka, the fantastic voices and talent of Helen and Abbi, plus our own composers here at Ninja. It’s an honour for us to receive this nomination for a work that is done with great passion and care.”

    David García Díaz, Ninja Audio Director

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    Narrative

    “Our heroine Senua faces down both inner and outer conflicts with persistence and strength of heart, and I feel fortunate to be part of the team sharing her unique perspective with the world.

    “Storytelling is always foremost in our minds with all of Ninja Theory’s games, and I’m deeply honoured and grateful that the team’s work in this area has been recognised by BAFTA with a nomination in the Narrative category.”

    Lara Derham, Writer and Stage Director

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    Performer in a Leading Role – Melina Juergens as Senua

    “I am deeply honored to be nominated at this year’s BAFTA Games Awards as ‘Performer in a Leading Role’ for my portrayal of Senua for the second time. It means the world to have my work as a performer recognized in such a meaningful way.

    “BAFTA Games Awards play a vital role in elevating gaming as an art form, putting it on the same cultural stage as film and television. Their commitment to celebrating creativity, storytelling, and innovation in games is incredible, and their charity work, supporting new talent and making the industry more accessible is truly inspiring.

    “In Senua’s Saga, we managed to push the performance tech further than ever before, which gave me the freedom to pour everything into my performance, knowing that every emotion and every little nuance would come through on screen. It was an incredible and rewarding experience.”

    Melina Juergens

    Photo Credit: Gareth Dutton

    [embedded content]

    Performer in a Supporting Role – Aldís Amah Hamilton as Ástríðr

    “It’s hard to put into words how much this nomination means to me and how grateful I am to everyone involved in creating this beautiful game, and for allowing me to be a part of that creation. Every step of the process has been an unforgettable experience. I’ve made dear friends, learned new skills, worked abroad for the first time, and taken part in making something meaningful. As a gamer from the age of 5, I couldn’t have imagined what my future would hold. And to receive this recognition for our work goes beyond what I could ever have dreamed of. Thank you dearly dear Ninjas and Xbox for giving me the honor of working with you.”

    Aldís Amah Hamilton

    Photo Credit: Thelma Arngrims

    Performer in a Supporting Role – Abbi Greenland and Helen Goalen as The Furies

    “We are delighted to be jointly nominated for our role as the Furies. Working on Senua’s Saga was a joy thanks to the brilliance of David García Díaz and his dream team.

    “We are a theatre company who work a lot with vocal improvisation and it was really exciting to collaborate with David in this way. It was fascinating for us to get an insight into how games are made. Everyone works so incredibly hard and it’s wonderful to see the team receiving such recognition for this.”

    Helen Goalen and Abbi Greenland

    Technical Achievement

    “It’s a great honour to receive a Technical Achievement BAFTA nomination for Hellblade II, alongside a shortlist of excellent and varied nominees. This nomination celebrates not just the technology itself, but the vision and perseverance of the entire team; it’s a testament to the detail, artistry and technical effort we poured into crafting Senua’s world and its inhabitants, as part of our dedication to pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling. We’re immensely grateful to BAFTA for this acknowledgement, and it fuels our passion to continue creating experiences that aim to resonate on a profound level. Thank you.”

    Gavin Costello, Ninja Technical Director

    Congratulations to everyone at Ninja Theory for their work on Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, and to all the recipients of BAFTA nominations this year.

    You can watch the BAFTA Games Awards live on Tuesday, April 8 at 11am Pacific / 2pm Eastern / 7pm UK via YouTube and Twitch.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding boost for new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The 2024-25 ACT Budget includes funding for the planning and development of a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre.

    The ACT Government will provide funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget to continue the planning and development of a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre.

    The centre will form part of an events and entertainment precinct proposed for the south-east section of the CBD that includes the current convention centre site and the Canberra Olympic Pool site.

    Master-planning for the new precinct will see concept designs developed for an integrated convention and entertainment centre for live music, events and performances.

    The ACT Government will invest in site investigations and concept design options for the replacement of the ageing Canberra Olympic Pool to provide aquatic facilities for the city’s growing population in Commonwealth Park.

    The ACT Government will continue to work with the Australian Government under the National Capital Investment Framework and through the Urban Precincts and Partnerships Program to progress infrastructure projects such as the Convention and Entertainment Centre.

    As Canberra’s population nears half a million people, this project is important for the local tourism and business sector, ensuring Canberra is a more attractive tour option for live music and entertainment.

    Bruce Sports, Health, and Education Precinct update

    Further funding will be provided in the 2024-25 ACT Budget to progress development of the Bruce Sports, Health, and Education Precinct.

    The ACT Government intends to partner with the Commonwealth Government to develop a mixed-use urban renewal precinct, which will include housing, commercial, hospitality and retail opportunities to support sport, health and education infrastructure projects.

    Through the 2024-25 Budget, the Government will also progress planning for the new Northside Hospital, a renewed CIT campus and a new stadium.

    This work will complement the Commonwealth Government’s AIS precinct renewal announced in the recent Federal Budget.

    The Government will consider options for the development, including the optimal delivery model and the declaration of an urban renewal site.

    This declaration will help coordinate ACT Government Directorates and agencies to work together on the precinct planning.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Next steps for Canberra Theatre Centre project

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Lyric Theatre concept design – Vernon Circle

    The ACT Government is funding the next stage of the Canberra Theatre Centre revitalisation in the 2024–25 Budget.

    Major Projects Canberra will collaborate an industry partner which will be engaged through an early contractor involvement (ECI) delivery model.

    They will work in partnership to complete the project.

    A two-stage process will begin in July to confirm the industry partner.

    Construction approvals for the redevelopment will be sought in 2025.

    The expanded Canberra Theatre Centre will enhance Civic as a live entertainment and hospitality destination.

    This will provide opportunities for Canberrans to come together and connect, and will lead to more jobs.

    A transformed Canberra Theatre Centre

    The Canberra Theatre Centre revitalisation will create a performing arts centre of national and international significance. It will include:

    • a new 2,000-seat lyric theatre (suitable for musicals, opera and ballet)
    • a refurbishment of The Playhouse and Canberra Theatre
    • expanding the studio theatre for flexible use by local artists for intimate shows
    • improved accessibility and connections to the precinct
    • hospitality offerings, including bars.

    Project benefits

    This project offers benefits for the whole community.

    • First Nations Connection to Country are celebrated and acknowledged through design.
    • Canberra will be able to attract and enjoy world-renowned musicals, circus shows, ballet and opera without the need for expensive interstate travel.
    • Canberra will have a world-class theatre and cultural precinct.
    • More visitors to the ACT will grow the local economy.
    • The city centre will be enhanced as a lively destination for dining and entertainment – day and night.
    • The project will create more jobs in the arts, hospitality and construction. With more career pathways for emerging creatives and technicians, more arts workers will remain in Canberra.
    • The Centre will be a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
    • The revitalised Canberra Theatre Centre will feature sustainable, green-star all-electric design.
    • The project will generate more opportunities, networks and audiences for Canberra’s performing arts sector.

    Share your thoughts on the centre’s design

    Previous community consultation responses highlighted that the centre’s design should prioritise:

    • First Nations Connection to Country
    • Accessibility requirements for people with disability, mental health conditions and neurodiversity
    • High-quality audience experience and usability
    • Connection to the wider entertainment precinct.

    The ACT Government wants to explore these ideas further with specific stakeholder communities.

    Dedicated engagement sessions are planned, both in person and online.

    Personal experiences and insights shared in these sessions will help ensure better access, inclusion and diversity in the design.

    Register your interest and the team will be in touch to understand your requirements to enable your attendance.

    Find out more on the Built for CBR website.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Drinking pee to improve health is an ancient practice – but the risks outweigh the evidence

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    KK_face/Shutterstock

    TV star Ben Grylls says he does it for survival – and teaches his reality show contestants to do the same. Mexican boxer Juan Manuel Márquez practised this therapy to train for his 2009 fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr (he lost). Former Indian prime minister Morarji Desai claimed a daily glass of the stuff was a remedy for many diseases and contributed to his longevity.

    What is the therapy these celebrities practice? Urophagia, also known as urine therapy, is the practice of drinking urine.

    Whether the urine is your own, someone else’s or even obtained from an animal, people have been drinking pee as medicine for thousands of years. Most claims about urine therapy are based on anecdotes or ancient texts with no robust scientific evidence to support the benefits of urine therapy. There is evidence to show that drinking urine has a number of health risks, however,

    In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, urine was used to treat asthma, allergies, indigestion, wrinkles and even cancer. The Roman poet Catullus believed urine helped to whiten teeth – possibly due to its ammonia content.

    As a rudimentary test for diabetes, doctors used to taste urine to check how sweet it was. Now, of course, we have urine test strips to check for glucose in the urine.

    In 1945, British naturopath John W. Armstrong published a book called “The Water of Life: A Treatise on Urine Therapy.” He claimed that drinking one’s own urine and massaging it into the skin could cure major illnesses.

    Historically, drinking pee to treat illnesses may have made sense because of a lack of medical alternatives. But, as the urine-sipping celebrities above show, the practice is still followed today.

    There are reported cases of using urine for home remedies to treat seizures in children in Nigeria. The China Urine Therapy Association claims that drinking and washing with urine can cure constipation and skin sores.

    Waste not, want not?

    Urine is made by the body to get rid of waste. It is mostly made up of water (about 95%) and several waste products, including urea (2%), which is made by the liver after breaking down proteins in the body, creatinine, which is left over from energy-releasing processes in the muscles, and salts. If urine is just waste, how could drinking it be beneficial?

    The kidneys act as regulators – not just to get rid of any toxins but to remove anything that it doesn’t need. For example, excess vitamins that aren’t needed by the body are found in urine.

    Drinking urine means these vitamins and minerals are getting recycled instead of being wasted – this also goes for other hormones, proteins and antibodies that can be found in urine. However, the amounts of these substances in a glass of urine are unlikely to be enough to be beneficial and a vitamin supplement may be more effective.

    Some advocates of urine therapy believe it can help prevent allergic reactions and control autoimmune conditions. The antibodies in the urine are supposed to make the immune system stronger.

    Other modern uses also include cleansing and detoxification – some people have claimed that continually drinking recycled urine leads to cleaner urine and blood by removing toxins and leading to better overall health.

    However, there’s no scientific evidence to support any of these claims.

    Some social media influencers claim that urine has healing properties and drinking or applying it to the skin can help skin conditions such as acne and infections. As mentioned, urine does contain urea, which is often added to skin care products as a moisturiser. But the concentration of urea in urine is unlikely to be high enough to have this effect.

    Urine also contains dehydroepiandrosterone, a steroid hormone produced by the body that declines with age, which has been marketed as an anti-ageing ingredient – but there isn’t enough data to demonstrate its efficacy.

    Risky business

    Some advocates of urine therapy believe that urine is sterile. However, research has found that urine naturally contains low levels of bacteria and research shows that bacteria can further contaminate the urine when it leaves the body. Drinking urine, then, can introduce bacteria and toxins into the gut and potentially cause further illness like stomach infections.

    Urine becomes more concentrated when it comes out again – the kidneys may have to work harder to filter out the excess, putting extra strain on them. The kidneys need water to process these salts.

    Drinking urine means you have to pee out more water than you get from it, which speeds up dehydration – it’s similar to drinking seawater. Some drugs, such as penicillin antibiotics or heart medicines, are also excreted in the urine – by drinking urine, it can cause toxic levels of these drugs to build up in the body.

    Mainstream medical communities do not endorse urine therapy as it lacks scientific evidence. Small amounts of urine drinking are unlikely to be harmful. But for tangible health benefits, other therapies with scientific evidence may be the way to go.

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

    – ref. Drinking pee to improve health is an ancient practice – but the risks outweigh the evidence – https://theconversation.com/drinking-pee-to-improve-health-is-an-ancient-practice-but-the-risks-outweigh-the-evidence-253353

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rod Serling documentary enters the Rhode Island Zone

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Leonardo DiCaprio’s production company, Appian Way, has partnered with Rhode Island-based production company, Verdi Productions, for the authorized documentary on the life of Rod Serling, most known as the creator, host, narrator and primary writer of The Twilight Zone.

    DiCaprio and Chad A. Verdi are producing, along with Jennifer Davisson, Phillip Watson, Michelle Verdi, Chad Verdi Jr., Paul Luba and Blake J. Harris. The documentary is authorized by Serling’s two daughters, Jodi Serling and Anne Serling, who are serving as Executive Producers along with Sera Verdi and Anthony Gudas. Jonah Tulis is directing and penned the screenplay. Tom DeNucci is portraying Rod Serling for the reenactments of the documentary. Principal photography wrapped in Rhode Island, taking place in East Greenwich, Providence and Wakefield.

    In the 1950s, the first episode of The Twilight Zone aired � it was a show that would later be heralded as one of the greatest television programs of all time. It was a genre-bending show unlike anything television had ever seen. Through the lens of these fantastical stories, the show tackled the social and political issues of the times like war, racism and the dangers of technology. The show was not simply great primetime entertainment, but rather, a cultural phenomenon of tales of morality with thought-provoking social commentary. And behind it all was one man, the creator and iconic host, Rod Serling. This documentary is an intimate portrait of Serling that explores the life and work of this visionary writer as he made his iconic television programs and how he helped change the face of television forever. While filming in Rhode Island, magnificent recreations of Serling’s life were shot, mirroring the same cinematic black and white style of The Twilight Zone.

    Verdi Productions President, Chad A. Verdi, stated “We are enthusiastic to finish another successful shoot with Appian Way in Rhode Island – our second co-production with them in the span of three months. Our company’s goal is to keep creating jobs in Rhode Island with high profile and meaningful projects that our small state can be proud of.” Verdi added, “We expect to announce our third collaboration with Leo and the Appian Way team very soon.”

    Steven Feinberg, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Film & Television Office, stated, “Prolific, creative and insightful, Rod Serling was a provocative storyteller whose narratives such as “The Twilight Zone” series and the original “Planet of the Apes” feature film impacted my life along with millions of others. Rod Serling has and always will be an inspiration. The Rhode Island film and t.v. community is honored to host our friends, Chad Verdi and Verdi Productions, along with Leonardo DiCaprio, Appian Way, and the Serling Family, as they create a much-needed documentary about the life and unique talents of the master storyteller Rod Serling. We know it will be a special event and we could not be prouder to be part of it!”

    This documentary marks the second Rhode Island production that Chad A. Verdi & Verdi Productions have co-produced with Leonardo DiCaprio & Appian Way in 2025. The first was Sleepwalker, a narrative psychological thriller which starred Hayden Panettiere, Beverly D’Angelo, Justin Chatwin, Mischa Barton and Lori Tan Chinn. Outside of their work with Appian Way, Verdi Productions recently produced The Roaring Game in Rhode Island, a sports comedy which starred Mickey Rourke, Darin Brooks, Fivel Stewart, Justin Chatwin, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Rob Gronkowski and William Forsythe ### The Rhode Island Film & TV Office is a government agency under the umbrella of the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Money laundering gang who exploited Russia-Ukraine war jailed

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two people have been jailed for a combined 13 years for laundering more than £6 million, after an investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s economic crime team.

    The group used criminal money to purchase vans and lorries in the UK and sold them to Ukraine. The earnings were then converted into cryptocurrency. They exploited the legitimate demand in Ukraine for vehicles as part of their war effort, and the lack of cryptocurrency regulation, to maximise their profit and made millions in just over a year.

    Valeriy Popovych, 52, (08.09.1972) of The Avenue, Sudbury‐on‐Thames, and Vitaliy Lutsak, 43, (07.08.1981) of Shortmead Drive, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, were sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court on Monday, 7 April, following a five-week trial.

    Oksana Popovych, 42, (19.03.1983) of The Avenue, Sudbury‐on‐Thames is due to be sentenced on Friday, 30 May at Wood Green Crown Court.

    They were all found guilty of transferring criminal property and running an unregistered money service business, following an investigation by the Met.

    The criminal enterprise enabled Valeriy and Oksana Popovych and to purchase a second house in South West London for just under £1 million.

    Detective Constable Harry Davies, from the Metropolitan Police, who led the investigation, said:

    “This was a thorough and complex investigation into an organised crime gang operating internationally, I’d like to thank the dedicated officers and our partners for their work in bringing this group to justice.

    “Mr Popovych presented himself as a hardworking, legitimate tradesman and used his reputation within the second-hand lorry market to clean criminal cash. He also callously saw the conflict in Ukraine as a lucrative business opportunity.

    “The sentences given to the group today show how committed we are in tackling organised crime groups and the serious risk they pose to our communities.”

    The investigation

    Valeriy Popovych ran an export business, Sprint Commercial Ltd, purchasing vehicles in the UK from legitimate traders and selling them in Ukraine. His wife, Valeriy Popovych, was also employed by the business.

    He would purchase the goods with criminal cash, the money was deposited in Ukraine and converted to cryptocurrency.

    Lutsak acted as the money co-ordinator and would send the Popovychs to collect criminal cash from ‘customers’ in the UK. During the investigation officers found more than $14million in cryptocurrency had passed through his “cyrptowallets” stored on his computer.

    A part of the laundered cash was controlled by a Russian National called Semen Kuksov, who was convicted on Friday, 27 October 2023 at Southwark Crown Court, under the National Crime Agency’s (NCA) Operation Destabilise.

    Kuksov was sentenced to five years and seven months’ imprisonment at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 1 February 2024.

    The arrests

    Acting on intelligence, on Wednesday, 28 June 2023, police stopped a vehicle in Twickenham in which Valeiry Popovych was the passenger. Following a search of the vehicle Met officers found more than £60,000 in cash and arrested him at the scene.

    During a further search at his address on Gloucester Road, Feltham, officers recovered £130,000 in cash. This was seized, alongside a laptop and mobile devices.

    Following Popovych’s arrest, extensive investigations by the Economic Crime Unit discovered the link with Oksana and Lutsak, who were arrested at their homes on Wednesday, 15 May 2024. Lutsak was charged on the same day.

    Valeriy and Oksana Popvych were charged on Tuesday, 14 June 2024.

    They were all found guilty by the jury on Wednesday, 5 March 2025 at Wood Green Crown Court.

    A variety of complex evidence was obtained by officers, including chats, money transactions, CCTV, cryptocurrency wallets and call logs.

    The Met’s economic crime unit worked with partner agencies including the NCA, HM Revenue and Customs and the Financial Conduct Authority to conduct a robust investigation.

    Messages outlined key times in which Valeriy and Popovych visited addresses to collect cash.

    The most crucial element was an Excel spreadsheet, named ‘V Enf Acc’. This document proved the group laundered over £6 million between August 2022 and June 2023.

    Valeriy Popovych and Vitaliy Lutsak were were both sentenced to six years and six months’ imprisonment.

    They were all found guilty of transferring criminal property over the value of £6 million under Section 327 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and running an unregistered money service business under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017.

    Negeen Momtahen, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

    “Together, these defendants used an export business as a front to launder millions of pounds of criminal cash across borders. They attempted to conceal the source of this illicit money by using secret token exchanges and cryptocurrency.

    “Money laundering is not a victimless crime – it is the financial lifeline which enables criminals to profit from their illegal activities.

    “Last year we convicted other key members of this same money laundering network. I hope this latest prosecution demonstrates our ongoing determination to dismantling these criminal operations and bringing all involved to justice.

    “We will be pursuing confiscation proceedings against the defendants to remove any available criminal benefits gained from this enterprise.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Euronext announces volumes for March 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Euronext announces volumes for March 2025

    Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris – 7 April 2025 – Euronext, the leading European capital market infrastructure, today announced trading volumes for March 2025.

    Monthly and historical volume tables are available at this address:

    euronext.com/investor-relations#monthly-volumes

    CONTACTS  

    ANALYSTS & INVESTORS – ir@euronext.com

    Investor Relations        Aurélie Cohen                 

            Judith Stein        +33 6 15 23 91 97          

    MEDIA – mediateam@euronext.com 

    Europe        Aurélie Cohen         +33 1 70 48 24 45   

            Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13 

    Belgium        Marianne Aalders         +32 26 20 15 01                 

    France, Corporate        Flavio Bornancin-Tomasella        +33 1 70 48 24 45                 

    Ireland        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                 

    Italy         Ester Russom         +39 02 72 42 67 56                 

    The Netherlands        Marianne Aalders         +31 20 721 41 33                 

    Norway         Cathrine Lorvik Segerlund        +47 41 69 59 10                 

    Portugal         Sandra Machado        +351 91 777 68 97                

    Corporate Solutions        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                  

    About Euronext  

    Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway and Portugal.

    As of March 2025, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal host nearly 1,800 listed issuers with €6.3 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.

    For the latest news, go to euronext.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only: it is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and is provided “as is”, without representation or warranty of any kind. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext. This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is available at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

    © 2025, Euronext N.V. – All rights reserved. 

    The Euronext Group processes your personal data in order to provide you with information about Euronext (the “Purpose”). With regard to the processing of this personal data, Euronext will comply with its obligations under Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and Council of 27 April 2016 (General Data Protection Regulation, “GDPR”), and any applicable national laws, rules and regulations implementing the GDPR, as provided in its privacy statement available at: www.euronext.com/privacy-policy. In accordance with the applicable legislation you have rights with regard to the processing of your personal data: for more information on your rights, please refer to: www.euronext.com/data_subjects_rights_request_information. To make a request regarding the processing of your data or to unsubscribe from this press release service, please use our data subject request form at connect2.euronext.com/form/data-subjects-rights-request or email our Data Protection Officer at dpo@euronext.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: A Colombian judge leads judicial transformation with Copilot 

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: A Colombian judge leads judicial transformation with Copilot 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Announces Support for HDR10+ Netflix Shows and Movies on Smart TVs & Monitors

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung support for Netflix shows and movies in HDR10+1 across its smart TVs and monitors. With HDR10+, viewers can enjoy richer contrast, deeper colors and stunning visual depth, making their favorite Netflix titles more immersive than ever.
    “HDR10+ enhances the way we watch content, delivering deeper contrast and more vibrant colors for a truly cinematic experience,” said Taeyong Son, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are excited to bring this technology to Netflix’s 300 million plus members and will continue collaborating with various partners to expand HDR10+ support across our product lineup and the broader streaming ecosystem.”

    HDR10+ is a next-generation high dynamic range (HDR) technology pioneered by Samsung, designed to optimize picture quality scene by scene. By dynamically adjusting brightness and contrast levels, HDR10+ ensures that each frame is displayed with exceptional clarity and detail, staying true to the creator’s intent.
    With this integration, viewers can experience enhanced realism and depth across a growing library of HDR10+ content, making every scene feel more lifelike. HDR10+ content on Netflix will be accessible on 2025 Samsung Neo QLED, OLED and Lifestyle TVs — as well as 2025 and 2024 monitor models — with support for additional models in the future.
    This launch marks a significant step in expanding HDR10+ content, bringing enhanced picture quality to more viewers. In addition to Netflix, Samsung is actively working with a growing network of industry partners to further extend HDR10+ support. For more information on Samsung TVs, please visit www.samsung.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund – notice of termination of the SDR program and delisting from Nasdaq Stockholm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On 13 February 2025, Baltic Horizon Fund (the “Fund”) disclosed the plan to terminate the Fund’s Swedish Depositary Receipts („SDR“) program and delist the SDR from Nasdaq Stockholm: https://view.news.eu.nasdaq.com/view?id=1342914&lang=en.

    Today, the issuer of SDRs, Nordic Issuing AB, has sent a notice of termination to the SDR holders under section 17.1 of the terms and conditions of the SDR-s (Nordic Issuing AB’s General Terms and Conditions for Swedish Depository Receipts regarding fund units in Baltic Horizon Fund, the „Terms“, available on https://www.baltichorizon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Terms-and-conditions-for-SDR.pdf). Investors are hereby notified that the SDRs will be terminated on 14 October 2025, which is the record date (the “Record Date”) for de-registration of the SDRs from the Euroclear Sweden register.

    As a result of the termination, every holder of the SDR must decide before the Record Date if they will sell their SDRs or convert them into the fund units held in Nasdaq CSD by giving respective notice to Nordic Issuing AB. Where no decision has been made by the holder before the Record Date, mandatory conversion will take place, provided that the respective investor has the ability to hold fund units. If the mandatory conversion is technically impossible, the underlying fund units of the remaining SDRs will be sold by Nordic Issuing AB according to section 17.2 of the Terms. Such SDR holder shall be entitled to the sale proceeds following deduction for reasonable costs, fees and taxes.

    The timeline for the termination of the SDRs is set out below:

    • 8 October 2025 – Last day of trading in the SDR on Nasdaq Stockholm
    • 14 October 2025 – Record Date in Euroclear Sweden for the de-registration of the SDRs
    • Following the Record Date, any remaining SDRs will be mandatorily converted into fund units, or, if the conversion is not possible, the underlying fund units represented by SDRs on the Record Date will be sold by Nordic Issuing AB.

    In order to convert the SDRs into fund units, an investor holding the SDRs through a nominee account (the nominee-registered holder) should contact their bank, and an investor holding the SDRs directly (the direct-registered holder) should contact Nordic Issuing at info@nordic-issuing.se.

    The Fund invites holders of the SDRs to join its investor conference webinar on the delisting, where more information will be provided on the termination and de-listing, scheduled at 14:00 (local Estonian time) on 14 April 2025.

    To join the webinar, please register via the following link: https://nasdaq.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WA1udEFxSBO0QkxvXmz-ig

    You will be provided with the webinar link and instructions how to join successfully. The webinar will be recorded and available online for everyone at the company’s website on www.baltichorizon.com.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 7.4.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WithSecure Corporation, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 7 April 2025 at 6.30 PM (EET)
           
           
    WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 7.4.2025  
           
    In the Helsinki Stock Exchange      
           
    Trade date           7.4.2025    
    Bourse trade         Buy    
    Share                  WITH    
    Amount             13 332 Shares  
    Average price/ share    0,8334 EUR  
    Total cost            11 110,89 EUR  
           
           
    WithSecure Corporation now holds a total of 374 041 shares  
    including the shares repurchased on 7.4.2025    
           
    The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation   
    No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
    and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.  
           
           
    On behalf of Withsecure Corporation    
           
    Nordea Bank Oyj      
           
    Janne Sarvikivi           Sami Huttunen    
           
           
    Contact information:      
    Laura Viita      
    Vice President Controlling, Investor relations and Sustainability
    WithSecure Corporation      
    Tel. +358 50 4871044      
    Investor-relations@withsecure.com      

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Access Canberra supports people with hidden disabilities

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    All Access Canberra Service Centre staff have received Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training.

    Staff at Access Canberra Service Centres strive to help customers feel seen, supported and understood.

    To help ensure this, Access Canberra is now a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative.

    This aims to ensure Canberrans living with non-visible disabilities are better supported when visiting service centres.

    Not all disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses can be seen. The Hidden Disability Sunflower initiative encourages inclusivity, acceptance and understanding.

    Hidden disabilities may be:

    • neurological
    • cognitive and neurodevelopmental
    • physical
    • visual
    • auditory.

    This also includes respiratory conditions, rare diseases and chronic conditions like diabetes or chronic pain.

    The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative

    The global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative gives people a tool to share that they have a hidden disability – if they wish to do so.

    They can opt to wear a sunflower lanyard or pin. This visual cue shows they might need extra help, understanding or time, without them having to ask.

    All Access Canberra Service Centre staff have received Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training.

    They also have their own sunflower supporter pins.

    This shows customers with hidden disabilities that they have the awareness and training to support them when carrying out government transactions.

    “By joining the Sunflower Initiative it’s another way for Access Canberra to show that ‘we see you, we value you and we want to service you in way that best works for you,’” Service Centre Operations Manager Paige Ryan said.

    Staff now have a greater understanding of the types of disabilities and/or conditions people experience and how common these are in our community.

    “This training also helps encourage our staff to continue to challenge our way of thinking when it comes to how we offer our help, support and guidance to those we service,” Paige said.

    More support for Canberrans with neurodiversity

    There will be a quiet hour each Wednesday at Access Canberra Service Centres.*

    From 10am to 11am, service centre staff will help to facilitate a calmer, less stimulating space for customers to complete their transactions.

    Where possible, service centres will have music turned down and mobile phones on silent.

    “The aim is to create a less stimulating environment for one hour each week, which will help provide a more inclusive offering to our community,” Paige said.

    The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that 30-40 per cent of the Australian population is neurodiverse.

    *The Dickson service centre, which is appointment-only, will not offer the weekly quiet hour.

    Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards and pins are available on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.

    Find Access Canberra Service Centre locations.

    From 10am to 11am on Wednesday, service centre staff will help to facilitate a Quiet Hour at most service centres.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chinese Culture Festival announced

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The second edition of the Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) will be held from June to September, with various performances and activities being presented for the public to experience traditional Chinese fine culture.

     

    The festival’s opening show is a dance production. “Dongpo: Life in Poems” is directed by the internationally acclaimed choreographer and visual artist Shen Wei, and blends modern dance with poetry, traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, seal engraving and guqin music to delicately deconstruct the poetic works of Su Dongpo, a literary master during the Song dynasty.

     

    A core part of the CCF, this year’s Chinese Opera Festival (COF) features six quality productions covering Peking opera, Yuediao opera, Qinqiang opera, Yue opera, Cantonese opera and Kunqu opera.

     

    The COF this year features classic plays inspired by the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms”, one of the four great classic novels of Chinese literature. There will also be a dance drama highlighting the resilient spirit and sentiments of the famous Song dynasty poetess, Li Qingzhao, and her contributions to China’s literary inheritance from a contemporary perspective.

     

    In another production, the Jiangsu Centre for the Performing Arts will present the original Chinese dance drama “A Dream of Red Mansions”, the plot of which concerns a love triangle between Jia Baoyu, Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai. The production restructures the traditional storylines from the perspective of the 12 Beauties of Jinling.

     

    This year’s CCF also features a “Tea Culture” series curated by Hong Kong’s Ambassador for Cultural Promotion, the internationally renowned composer and conductor Tan Dun.

     

    The City in Focus of this year’s CCF is Xi’an. Relevant shows include the classic opera “Zhou Ren on the Way Home”, a exhibition showcasing Xi’an’s invaluable archaeological relics, and a production of the ballet “Swan Lake” by the Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe.

     

    Call 2268 7321, 2268 7323 or 2268 7325 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX $XPL Presale Selling Fast as XRP’s First AI-Powered DEX Fuels Investor Interest – Join $XPL Presale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XRP Ledger, A seismic shift is underway on the XRP Ledger as XploraDEX, the first AI-powered decentralized exchange (DEX) built natively on XRPL, ignites a wave of investor enthusiasm. In what’s being described as one of the most anticipated presales of 2025, the platform’s native token $XPL Presale is selling out rapidly, capturing the attention of retail investors and whales alike.

    XploraDEX is not just another decentralized exchange, it represents a complete evolution in how trading can function on-chain. By merging advanced artificial intelligence with XRPL’s lightning-fast and cost-effective infrastructure, XploraDEXolatform is introducing a smarter, more predictive trading experience to the DeFi space. And now, with the $XPL token presale in full swing, early backers are racing to claim their allocation before the next price tier is activated.

    PARTICIPATE IN $XPL PRESALE

    The appeal of XploraDEX lies in its cutting-edge AI engine that allows users to automate trading strategies, receive real-time market predictions, and manage risk dynamically based on live market conditions. From intelligent portfolio rebalancing to smart liquidity routing, XploraDEX gives users the ability to operate with a level of precision previously only accessible to hedge funds.

    As the XRP ecosystem evolves, it has long needed a DEX that delivers more than just basic token swaps. XploraDEX answers that call with AI-native features and a roadmap that includes auto-trade execution, sentiment-based signal alerts, and personalized strategy modeling—all powered by $XPL.

    The utility of $XPL goes far beyond standard DeFi tokens. It provides access to AI trading tools, unlocks staking and yield farming modules, grants platform-wide fee discounts, and confers voting rights within the platform’s decentralized governance model. This positions $XPL not just as a transactional token, but as the lifeblood of an intelligent financial ecosystem.

    JOIN $XPL PRESALE

    The $XPL Presale has already crossed major allocation milestones, with over half of the soft cap sold in record time. The XploraDEX community is growing rapidly, with Telegram and Twitter buzzing with activity. Whale wallets are also joining in, with several high-value purchases confirming that sophisticated investors are backing the platform early.

    $XPL PreSale Information

    Token Name: XploraDEX

    Total Supply: 500,000,000

    Presale Allocation: First Come, First Serve!

    DEX Listing: 25% Higher

    Liquidity Pools: Launching immediately after TGE!

    The XPL Token Presale is already attracting major interest, early investors will gain first-mover advantages!

    Buy $XPL Tokens Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

    The $XPL presale is more than a presale—it’s the beginning of a smarter trading era on XRPL. With institutional-level technology now available to individual traders, XploraDEX is poised to become one of the most important DeFi pillars in the XRP ecosystem.

    Investors looking to front-run the future of AI-integrated DeFi on XRPL should act now. The $XPL presale is open—but not for long.

    Join the $XPL Presale Today: https://xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

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

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d5ad8c5-dd3b-47ff-a87e-bb5feb5a95a0

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Amadou Bagayoko: the blind Malian musician whose joyful songs changed west African music

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Lucy Durán, Professor of music, SOAS, University of London

    Amadou Bagayoko (1954-2025), Malian guitarist, singer and composer of the famed duo Amadou & Mariam – known as “the blind couple of Mali” – passed away on 4 April in Bamako. He was 70.

    The married singers, who met when she was 18 and he 21, took traditional Mali music and blended it with western rock and many other influences to shape a whole new sound that was both rich and playful. They would sell millions of albums for hits like Sunday in Bamako and Sabali.

    They would tour the world, opening the 2006 men’s football World Cup, closing the 2024 Paralympics, singing at former US president Barack Obama’s Nobel Prize concert, winning awards along the way.

    Despite this fame, they remained tireless activists for Africans with disabilities. They were known and admired at home for their integrity, where Amadou’s passing is much lamented.

    As a musician and professor of music with a research focus on Mali’s music, I met and interviewed Amadou several times. His passing heralds the end of an era for Mali’s long-held musical dominance in the international market.

    Who are Amadou & Mariam?

    Amadou Bagayoko and Mariam Doumbia were both dedicated promoters of the work of the Institute for the Blind in Bamako, where they had first met in the 1970s as students and went on to be music teachers. They married in 1980 and remained inseparable, forming Amadou & Mariam.

    Their hit songs combined the musical traditions of the southern part of Mali, where they both came from (Bougouni, Sikasso) with elements from rock, reggae, Cuban rhythms, and more – all transformed through their own ingenuity, but also, later on, by the ideas of influential producers.



    Read more:
    Mali’s kora star Toumani Diabaté – a personal reflection by his music producer

    In fact, the surnames Bagayoko and Doumbia are both from the ancient lineage (called Boula) of blacksmiths that date back to the time of the emperor Sunjata Keita, who founded the Mali empire in 1235. The blacksmiths (numu) were often powerful kings. This shared heritage in the noble past of the blacksmiths is significant in their musical synergy.

    Amadou Bagayoko

    Amadou’s career spanned more than five decades, beginning in the early 1970s when he played electric guitar in several influential Malian dance bands of the time, including Les Ambassadeurs, fronted by the legendary singer Salif Keita.

    President Moussa Traoré’s 23-year military regime from 1968 to 1991 favoured the voices of the griots. These hereditary musicians sang the praises of the people in power in a flowery, strident style.

    The life of these dance bands was on the wane by the late 1980s, which is when “la grand couple aveugle du Mali” (the blind couple of Mali) were launched – at first, two simple voices accompanied by Amadou’s guitar, recorded on cassette.

    At the end of Traore’s rule, Amadou & Mariam’s music responded to the new spirit of democracy that the country was hungry for.

    There were many things that set this duo apart from other musicians of the region. They were not griots. Their lyrics are often about the power of love – not a straightforward topic in a country where polygyny (up to four wives, as permitted by Islam) is the norm.

    Their presence on stage as a blind couple, looking affectionate and mutually supportive, in their chic, coordinated attire, also raised the profile of people with disabilities. Their melodies were catchy and upbeat.

    Meeting Amadou and Mariam

    Sorting through my research recently I came across a photo I’d taken of them on my old slides, buried in my archives. It was a revelation to see it again.

    I took the photo, with their permission, when I first met Amadou and Mariam in 1992 in Bamako. It was at the recording studio that is now known as Bogolan, where they were hoping, at the time, to make some recordings.

    It shows Amadou and Mariam in their youth with pride and dignity, values that remained constant for them in later years. On that first encounter, I was struck by their graciousness, their belief in their musical project, and their determination to bring it to a wider public.

    I wished at the time that I had the contacts in the record industry to help them. But they did not give up and they slowly built up their career, building on their sound and image, which was and remains unique within the variety of Malian music.

    World fame

    Against all the odds, with their conviction, talent, strong melodies and good production, Amadou & Mariam became hugely successful in the early 2000s. The album that really launched their international career was Dimanches à Bamako (Sundays in Bamako), brilliantly produced by French-Spanish singer-songwriter Manu Chao, who had had a big international hit with his creative and catchy album Clandestino in 1998.

    He brought some of those production values into Amadou & Mariam’s songs. Dimanches à Bamako celebrates the vibrant culture of wedding parties held in the streets of Bamako on Sundays, a day when civil marriage ceremonies are free.

    Dimanches à Bamako was the first of several successful albums by Amadou & Mariam that were produced by European producers such as Damon Albarn, with songs like Tie ni Mousso (Husband and Wife) that played on the charming stage presence of Amadou & Mariam as a devoted husband and wife. The songs were accessible and appealing but still delivered punch.

    After that first meeting in 1992, we met up again many times, frequently for radio.

    Amadou was a much respected and admired musician whose music reached out to audiences around the world. He was hugely loved and appreciated both at home and abroad, not just for his talent and musical creativity as an excellent guitarist and song writer, but also for the image that he and Mariam created on stage.

    Together they will be remembered and respected for the values they represent in their music: equality, love, perseverance against disability, and truth. My condolences to Mariam.

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

    – ref. Amadou Bagayoko: the blind Malian musician whose joyful songs changed west African music – https://theconversation.com/amadou-bagayoko-the-blind-malian-musician-whose-joyful-songs-changed-west-african-music-253954

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Are Scottish accents really more aggressive? A linguist explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amanda Cole, Lecturer in Department of Language and Linguistics, University of Essex

    Jdrw25/Shutterstock

    Can your accent make you sound aggressive? Exeter City football manager Gary Caldwell thinks so – he blamed his Scottish accent for his being sent off the pitch for the second time this season.

    After receiving a red card for his reaction after a late goal was disallowed for handball, Caldwell said: “I didn’t swear, I didn’t run, in my opinion I wasn’t aggressive. My accent and my Scottishness is aggressive, but yeah, I got sent off for that.”

    Caldwell is not the first to feel his Scottish accent has led to him being treated unfairly. Scottish comedian Fern Brady described herself as “an intelligent woman trapped in a Scottish accent”. She says she became most aware of her accent when she moved to southern England and she felt people looked at her as if “a dog was barking at them”.

    There are, of course, many different Scottish accents, even if previous research has found that English people tend to be very bad at identifying them as anything more precise than “Scottish”. But there is a stereotype that Scottish accents sound aggressive or at least tough.

    It is no coincidence that swamp-dwelling Shrek has a Scottish accent. Producers can use an accent as shorthand to tell us the sort of person (or ogre) that a character is, in this case that Shrek is hardy and grouchy, but also warm and salt of the earth.

    Many presume that Scottish accents sound harsh or, as they are often unfortunately characterised, gruff because of some inherent property: the throaty, fricative sound in loch, the striking glottal stop for “t” as in Fern Brady’s pronunciation of Scottish and the audible r’s in words like car.

    None of these pronunciations are unique to Scottish accents. But you would certainly not hear them in standard southern British English, an accent rooted in south-east England which many perceive as prestigious or neutral.

    In reality, the way we feel about an accent tells us less about its integral properties and much more about the stereotypes of the people who speak it.

    In my research I have found that in south-east England, when reading aloud the same sentence, lower-working-class people were judged to be on average 14% less intelligent, 4% less friendly and 5% less trustworthy than upper-middle-class people.

    People from ethnic minority backgrounds were evaluated as 5% less intelligent than white people, regardless of class. Accent prejudice is actually a smokescreen for other forms of prejudice.

    The consequences of accent prejudice

    We have no way of knowing, but perhaps if Caldwell spoke standard southern British English, he could have protested the disallowed goal without being sent off.

    But – sorry, football fans – the decisions made based on a person’s accent can have much graver consequences than what team wins a match. A person’s accent can advantage or disadvantage them in several ways, including in job recruitment and the criminal justice system.

    Research has found that speakers of standard southern British English are seen as more suitable candidates in mock job interviews to be a trainee solicitor than those who speak either multicultural London English or estuary English (both working-class southern accents).

    They are also seen as less likely to commit various crimes, particularly compared to people from Liverpool or Bradford.

    It is no coincidence that speakers of standard southern British English tend to be unscathed by accent bias. Research spanning 50 years has found that it is the British accent judged most favourably, especially as being prestigious. In contrast, the accents of urban industrialised areas in Britain tend to receive the harshest evaluations.

    It is true that regional accents are sometimes (though not always) seen as chummy. But regional accents generally do not lead to a person being seen as competent, astute or like the people who you would want to run your business or your country – even if they would be a right laugh at the Christmas party.

    Gender can also play a role in accent perception. If a female football manager – though there are currently none in English men’s professional football – with a Scottish accent had protested a referee’s decision, she would likely fare even worse than Caldwell. Women who speak with regional accents tend to be judged more harshly and labelled with more negative character traits than men.

    For example, a 2020 study by linguist Roy Alderton found gender differences in how teenagers in southern England were judged based on their accent.

    Regardless of gender, the teenagers with high rates of glottal stops in place of “t” were judged as sounding chavvy – a pejorative used to label someone thought to have low education and social class. The girl with high rates of glottal stops was additionally judged as annoying and uneducated, while the boy was thought to sound like a lad – not the most crushing insult for a teenage boy.



    Read more:
    The Traitors: how trustworthy is a Welsh accent? A sociolinguist explains

    When a person is treated a certain way because of their accent, they are actually being treated this way because of their race, class, gender, where they are from or something else fundamental to who they are.

    Caldwell suggested he needs to become more “Englified” because of the way he is judged based on his Scottish accent. Of course, that is not something he should have to do. No-one should have to change their accent and forsake who they are.

    Instead, we should challenge in ourselves and others the judgements and decisions we make based on a person’s accent – what linguists call accentism. Acknowledging and tackling accentism is one part of creating a level playing field in football and all other walks of life.

    Amanda Cole is affiliated with The Accentism Project which she runs along with Dr Rob Drummond to raise awareness and challenge accentism.

    – ref. Are Scottish accents really more aggressive? A linguist explains – https://theconversation.com/are-scottish-accents-really-more-aggressive-a-linguist-explains-253375

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five children’s books that feature positive male role models – from toddlers to teens

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Vincent Straub, PhD Candidate, Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, University of Oxford

    Shutterstock

    We are facing an apparent crisis of masculinity among young boys. As the success of the Netflix show Adolescence has highlighted, young men are lacking positive role models – and increasingly looking to misogynistic online influencers to fill the void.

    In response, we’ve asked five academic experts to recommend a book they’d read with a boy or young man that features a positive male role model. The stories they’ve selected celebrate kindness, integrity and vulnerability. Suitable for readers from infancy to late adolescence, these picks aim to teach boys what it means to be responsible, compassionate and confident men.

    1. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy (2019)

    Suitable for all ages

    As a researcher inspired by bell hooks’ adult non-fiction work, The Will to Change (2004), I’m drawn to children’s books that nurture the emotional lives of boys and challenge traditional ideas of masculinity.

    One such book is The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse. Its quiet, reflective narrative centres on emotional openness, friendship and the strength found in vulnerability. These are also core themes in hooks’ call to liberate men and boys from the emotional constraints of patriarchal masculinity.

    The characters gently model care, empathy and the courage to ask for help, offering children and their parents a vision of masculinity grounded in love and connection, rather than fear or dominance. In a culture that often discourages boys and the men they become from expressing tenderness, this book provides a vital counterbalance. It invites young readers to see emotional depth as a strength – planting early seeds for a more compassionate and expansive way of being.

    Recommended by Vincent Straub, PhD Candidate at the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science

    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.

    2. Tough Guys (Have Feelings Too), by Keith Negley (2015)

    Most suitable for ages three-five

    As a response to the pervasive damage caused by gendered play and storytelling, there is much excellent work which focuses on the empowerment of young women and girls. Yet, the promotion of emotional intelligence among young men and boys is still lagging.

    Tough Guys (Have Feelings Too) is a great example of a story which promotes respect, care and empathy while making space for the hyper-masculine. The book documents archetypal “strong men” – superheroes, wrestlers, astronauts and cowboys – struggling, and often failing.

    Negley reframes these archetypes by pairing a young boy’s combative imagination with the care and compassion of his father. If I return to my childhood, I think of the impact of Sheriff Woody and Intergalactic Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear in the Toy Story franchise. I watched as the characters competed for alpha status, and saw them ultimately work together through recognising their own limitations and faults. What I take from their story, and Negley’s, is that we need to be teaching our children not just to fly but to fail – with style.

    Recommended by Michael Richardson, Senior Lecturer in Human Geography

    3. The Final Year by Matt Goodfellow, illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton (2023)

    Most suitable for ages ten-11

    Nate, the ten-year-old protagonist of Matt Goodfellow’s The Final Year must square up to year six without either his ex-best-mate Parker Smith, or a dad. Both his father and the fathers of his two siblings are, variously, missing, in prison or unknown.

    It’s in Nate’s new teacher Mr Joshua that we find our role model. He handles Nate with patience and empathy, and hands out wisdom gleaned from singer Bob Marley and children’s author David Almond alike.

    The book is a punchy, easy read, written in vernacular and narrative verse, with an obvious appeal to boys and otherwise reluctant readers. Pleasingly, Mr Joshua’s talisman is the tender book Skellig by David Almond (1998). Almond is a former primary school teacher and a worthy role model himself. He once declared all writers for children “hope hunters”. It’s a mantle admirably upheld by Goodfellow.

    Recommended by Jo Nadin, Associate Professor of Creative Writing

    4. The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness (2008)

    Suitable for ages 14+

    For teenagers, I recommended The Knife of Letting Go by Patrick Ness, because of its promotion of emotional literacy and appreciation of difference. Through the unique metaphor of audible thoughts (known as “noise”), readers are shown that courage can be evoked through the acknowledgement of feelings, as opposed to their suppression.

    From its outset, the story confronts and challenges aggressive stereotypes and toxic masculinity, affirming more positive forms through healthier role models, who personify strength through empathy and kindness. As the protagonist, Todd journeys with Viola, the story’s underlying beliefs of gender equality and respectful interaction are promoted. During their experiences, tough choices shape character through ethical decision-making, while the story provides alternative solutions to violence and aggression.

    Ultimately, Ness’ novel guides boys in trials of adversity, offering understanding in lieu of bitterness, and endorsing empathy and resilience. It’s an invaluable aid in the fostering of emotional masculine maturity.

    Recommended by Rob Walker, PhD Candidate in Education

    5. This Boy’s Life by Tobias Wolff (1989)

    Suitable for ages 16+

    This memoir is a beautifully written, perceptive account of boyhood. The story does not shy away from troublesome tropes including adolescent alienation, a brutish father figure, the temptations of gun culture and more.

    At the centre of This Boy’s Life is a clever but vulnerable boy trying to navigate his way through the minefields and mixed messages of masculinity. A wonderful, quirky mother is a feature of the story, but so are good male friendships and mentors.

    There’s no sugar coating here. The story is formed and written with a kind of unsentimental tenderness. The result is an insightful and ultimately hopeful account of a complicated life, showing how boys – even those who are angry and confused – can grow into decent, generous, gentle men.

    Recommended by Sarah Moore Fitzgerald, Professor of Teaching, Learning and Creative Practice

    Vincent Straub is supported by UKRI (HORIZON-MSCA-DN-2021 101073237) and the Leverhulme Trust (RC-2018-003).

    Joanna Nadin, Michael Joseph Richardson, Robert Walker, and Sarah Moore Fitzgerald do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Five children’s books that feature positive male role models – from toddlers to teens – https://theconversation.com/five-childrens-books-that-feature-positive-male-role-models-from-toddlers-to-teens-253082

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hip-hop can document life in America more reliably than history books

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By A.D. Carson, Associate Professor of Hip-Hop, University of Virginia

    Faculty, staff and students, including then-Ph.D. student A.D. Carson, protest at Clemson University in 2016. AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins

    Describing my 2017 appointment as a faculty member, the University of Virginia dubbed me the school’s “first” hip-hop professor. Even if the job title and the historic nature of the appointment might have merited it, the word was misleading.

    Kyra Gaunt, a Black woman who is a foundational figure in the study of hip-hop, worked as a professor of ethnomusicology at the University of Virginia from 1996 to 2002. Her book “The Games Black Girls Play,” which focuses on Black music practices, was published in 2006. I cited her in my work and in the interview I gave before accepting the job.

    Also cited in my doctoral work, presented in my interview with the University of Virginia, was scholar Joe Schloss, who worked at the school from 2000-2001. In 2009, he wrote “Foundation: B-boys, B-girls, and Hip-Hop Culture in New York.” And in 2014 he wrote “Making Beats: The Art of Sample-Based Hip-Hop.”

    After pushback from readers online, UVA Today amended its original headline documenting my appointment and added Gaunt’s contributions to the article.

    As a rapper and scholar, I have experienced and seen misleading hip-hop stories that highlight an impulse to inaccurately document the genre’s history and present. I raised this issue recently in a TikTok “office hours” video – part of a series in which I respond to audience questions from the vantage of hip-hop art and research.

    Misleading hip-hop stories

    After Johns Hopkins University announced that Lupe Fiasco had been hired to teach rap there in fall 2025, some online platforms, including The Root, incorrectly reported on his assignment.

    They described his upcoming job as the first instance of a rapper ever hired as a professor at a university.

    This is obviously incorrect. I’m a rapper who since 2017 has worked as a professor of hip-hop while releasing music, which was part of the basis for my earning tenure in 2023. Besides this, I’m certain there were rappers with university teaching jobs before me.

    The trend of misrepresenting hip-hop history isn’t unique to communications from places such as Johns Hopkins University or the University of Virginia.

    In 2024, the publisher of musician Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s “Hip-Hop is History” described it as “the book only Questlove could write: a singular, definitive history” of hip-hop.

    Questlove’s book is not, as the publisher claims, a definitive history. It might more accurately be described as Questlove’s take on hip-hop history, or a memoir. Without this necessary distinction, unknowing readers might misinterpret the publisher’s claims.

    Questlove writes about finally coming to appreciate Southern rap in the 2000s. But Southern rap history predates Questlove’s appreciation by decades. It doesn’t begin when someone like him finally recognizes its importance.

    Similarly, hip-hop doesn’t begin when it’s finally recognized by an exclusive institution or when someone gets a degree for it.

    Lupe Fiasco will teach rap at Johns Hopkins University starting in fall 2025.
    Steve Jennings/WireImage

    Making hip-hop history

    I published these concerns as academic questions in 2017 in an album called “Owning My Masters: The Rhetorics of Rhymes & Revolutions.” The project served as my doctoral dissertation.

    “Owning My Masters (Mastered)” is the next phase of the dissertation album project. Published in 2024, it contains new audio, video, images and historical context. It’s published with University of Michigan Press through the same process of an academic book.

    ‘Owning My Masters (Mastered): The Rhetorics of Rhymes & Revolutions’ album cover.
    University of Michigan Press

    “Owning My Masters (Mastered)” demonstrates how hip-hop resists the ways American history often excludes Black resistance, Black achievement, Black storytelling and, ultimately, Black people.

    But the exclusion that my work highlights is muted when the seeming novelty of my job appointment or my dissertation album are the focus. When I’m asked if I’m the first person to earn a Ph.D. for making a rap album, I try to answer more expansively to avoid misleading anyone, or ignoring what might be more informative.

    It’s also important to understand the barriers that might have made a project like mine impossible before 2017. These include technological barriers that made recording and releasing music prohibitively expensive. And, more specific to hip-hop, it involves a mistrust based on racist history that prevented students from even proposing such a project.

    No such “first” happens without the unsung work of others creating the conditions to make it possible.

    Learning from hip-hop

    Hip-hop’s documentation should not repeat the same flaws of the recording of American history, which can omit important people and events, and which can misrepresent the legacies of racism and systemic violence.

    Undeniably, I believe important hip-hop texts, albums and moments should be studied and documented with academic rigor. But this should not solely focus on “firsts,” record sales or prestigious awards.

    Such stories fail to accurately illustrate that hip-hop is as much about how people live day to day as it is about how institutions use it to bolster credibility or how companies make money off it.

    Important aspects of hip-hop’s diverse culture are excluded when the ordinary is overlooked.

    Creating hip-hop is one among the many ways Black people have persevered in the U.S.

    Universities and other exclusionary institutions helped sustain – and, in certain ways, continue to benefit from – hellish conditions like those created by slavery.

    Hip-hop is, in part, a response to this history.

    At its best, hip-hop documents American life more reliably than American history.

    Some academic publishers have started to embrace this reality.

    My 2020 album “i used to love to dream” may be noteworthy as the first rap album to be peer-reviewed and published with an academic press. More importantly, its contents are about historic erasure of Black people and Black history in my hometown, Decatur, Illinois.

    Hip-hop’s popularity, its constant revision and its accessibility make it a powerful vehicle for disrupting inaccurate, exclusionary and fabricated tales passed off as objective facts.

    The genre has documented events such as the Tuskegee syphilis study – the 40-year experiment, conducted without informed consent, on Black men by the U.S. Public Health Service to study the effects of the disease when left untreated.

    Hip-hop has also cataloged tragedies such as the 1921 Tulsa race massacre – a two-day assault by white mobs on their Black neighbors – and the 1995 Million Man March, a large gathering of Black men in Washington, D.C.

    The media ecosystem in which hip-hop has thrived is also steeped with the scapegoating of its art and artists. This scapegoating is weaponized by critics to devalue the culture.

    It seems unwise to me to trust institutions such as universities and the media to determine what’s deemed culturally significant. Along with influencers and podcasters who benefit from hip-hop, they can learn valuable lessons from it.

    Their ability to determine what’s deemed culturally significant is especially problematic if their choices are primarily in exchange for revenue or credibility. If hip-hop is viewed as a cultural inheritance, then its value – and what’s considered historically important – may be better arbitrated by people in the culture, not outside forces.

    A.D. Carson 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. Hip-hop can document life in America more reliably than history books – https://theconversation.com/hip-hop-can-document-life-in-america-more-reliably-than-history-books-249532

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga – Útboð LSS 39 0303 og LSS151155

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga hefur ákveðið að efna til útboðs á skuldabréfaflokkunum LSS 39 0303 og LSS151155 fimmtudaginn 10. apríl 2025. Lánasjóðurinn stefnir að því að taka tilboðum að fjárhæð 500 til 1.500 milljónir króna að nafnvirði í skuldabréfaflokknum LSS151155 og að fjárhæð 500 til 1.500 milljónir króna að nafnvirði í skuldabréfaflokknum LSS 39 0303. Lánasjóðurinn áskilur sér rétt til að hækka og lækka útboðsfjárhæð útboðsins, taka hvaða tilboði sem er eða hafna þeim öllum. Lánasjóðurinn hefur boðið aðalmiðlurum sjóðsins Arion banka, Íslandsbanka, Kviku banka, Landsbankanum og Fossum fjárfestingabanka að taka þátt í útboðinu.

    Óskað er eftir tilboðum í samræmi við eftirfarandi lýsingu:

    Fyrirkomulag: “Hollensk” uppboðsaðferð þar sem allir tilboðsgjafar fá sömu ávöxtunarkröfu og hæst er tekið. Heimilt er að afturkalla eða breyta tilboði með sama hætti og tilboðum er skilað inn, sé það gert fyrir lok útboðsfrests.

    Tilboð: Í tilboði skal taka fram ávöxtunarkröfu án þóknunar og tilboðsfjárhæð.  

    Að öðru leyti er vísað til skilmála skuldabréfanna á heimasíðu Lánasjóðs sveitarfélaga

    Tilboð skulu berast fyrir kl. 16:00, fimmtudaginn 10. apríl 2025 til Lánasjóðs sveitarfélaga á netfangið utbod@lanasjodur.is

    Öllum tilboðum verður svarað fyrir kl. 17:00 á útboðsdegi. Uppgjör sölu fer fram þriðjudaginn 15. apríl 2025.

    Nánari upplýsingar veitir Óttar Guðjónsson, framkvæmdastjóri, ottar@lanasjodur.is / s. 515 4949

    The MIL Network –