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Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than a quarter of a million local businesses benefit from Mayor of London’s new support service

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Grow London Local is a one-stop-shop to support small businesses across the capital, launched with £8.7m of Mayoral funding and delivered by London & Partners
    • The programme has surpassed targets in its first year, reaching 250,000 entrepreneurs and supporting 16,000 businesses – with 88% of those helped coming from communities that face additional barriers
    • Friday 7 February will see special events for London’s small businesses to help them thrive

    More than 250,000 of the capital’s entrepreneurs and small businesses have accessed a dedicated support service set up by the Mayor Sadiq Khan to help them grow and thrive.

    Grow London Local provides in-person and online support for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) through the capital’s business growth agency London & Partners. Business Support Managers work in communities to help entrepreneurs overcome barriers through skills training, expert guidance, and connecting with other business leaders to foster peer learning.

    There are estimated to be more than a million SMEs in London (defined as employing up to 249 people), with one in four currently facing financial vulnerability  [1]. Grow London Local helps firms to access the right support at the right time, so that entrepreneurs can become financially resilient and their businesses can thrive.

    Since the Mayor invested £8.7m to launch the service in January 2024, Grow London Local has reached more than a quarter of a million entrepreneurs and helped more than 16,000 – almost double the initial targets of 132,580 and 12,484 respectively. While beneficiaries span every London borough, 88 per cent of entrepreneurs supported come from communities who face additional barriers to finding help.

    Grow London Local delivers on the Mayor’s 2021 manifesto pledge to create a ‘single front door’ for small businesses, uniting various schemes and resources under one banner, enhanced by the expertise of London & Partners. 

    The Mayor has been clear that SMEs have a vital part to play in London’s economy, and in how it can help national growth. Ensuring people and businesses across the capital have the skills they need will be a focus of his new London Growth Plan, which he will soon publish alongside London Councils and London & Partners. The Plan will outline measures to improve the lives of all Londoners, drive the capital’s green transition, boost the economy and support prosperity in London and beyond.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The capital’s one million small businesses are the backbone of our economy, delivering services and products we take for granted in our daily lives – but all too often they don’t get the help they need or are entitled to. I’m proud to see Grow London Local helping the capital’s entrepreneurs to not just survive but really thrive. As London’s most pro-business mayor, supporting our fantastic small businesses is a key component of my work to build a better and more prosperous London for everyone.”    

    Grow London Local’s Managing Director, Michelle Cuomo-Boorer, commented: “Reaching 250,000 entrepreneurs in our first year is a remarkable milestone – and it’s just the beginning. We’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made in supporting London’s dynamic and diverse small business community, and excited to build on this success by empowering more businesses to help them thrive.” 

    Andrea Pickard, a London-based career coach who supports people with dyslexia, said: “Grow London Local has been a game-changer, boosting my confidence and supporting my growth as a new business owner. Their coffee mornings connected me to other entrepreneurs, providing invaluable advice, and a NatWest Bank dinner was an incredible opportunity. As someone with dyslexia, it’s empowering to feel recognised and supported. Their impact has been transformative for both me and my business.” 

    Mrinal Madin, whose Kingston-based business The Entertainment Sports Agency has also benefited from Grow London Local services, added: “Learning about the digital skills needed and what to focus on was useful. There is still a long way to go to implement all the actions, but having systems and processes is going to be key to our growth.” 

    Paul Wight, Programme Manager for Allia’s Hackney Impact project – one of 374 providers who have partnered with Grow London Local to deliver support – noted: “Our partnership with Grow London Local has been pivotal in connecting us to nearly 400 Hackney businesses. As an active partner in the SME and social enterprise ecosystem, Grow London Local helps ensure we remain integrated in a broader network of support, which empowers businesses to thrive and contributes to sustainable economic growth across Hackney.” 

    To celebrate its first birthday, Grow London Local will host four free coffee mornings across the capital on Friday 7 February, where small business leaders can make connections and access support. Events will take place from 10am at Bobo Social in Ealing, Blooming Scent Café in Tottenham, SoLo Craft Fair in Southwark and Unit Six Café in Newham.

    Find out more and get involved at  www.growlondonlocal.london.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Fuels DeFi Innovation and Liquidity Security with the Berachain (BERA) Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, the world’s leading cryptocurrency trading platform, announced the listing of the Berachain (BERA), scheduled for February 6, 2025, at 13:00 (UTC). The launch on MEXC will be accompanied by Airdrop+ rewards of 19,100 BERA and 50,000 USDT.

    Berachain: From Meme to EVM-Identical Layer 1
    Berachain began as a meme, inspired by bear-themed JPEGs, and has since evolved into the creation of an innovative blockchain. It is a Layer 1 network that is both EVM-compatible and powered by a unique Proof of Liquidity (PoL) consensus mechanism. With this mechanism, validators not only stake tokens but also provide liquidity. Through its Proof of Liquidity (PoL) model, Berachain leverages active liquidity providers to secure the network, effectively turning capital into a core security resource.

    This groundbreaking approach has attracted significant financial backing, with the project raising $142 million in its latest funding round. As of January 2, the Berachain official website reports that 234 protocols are actively participating in its bArtio Testnet. BERA is a gas token, used for transactions and staking within its ecosystem.

    Berachain, powered by the BeaconKit modular consensus layer and built on the Cosmos SDK, offers flexibility for Ethereum-based blockchains. It enables developers to create both Layer-1 and Layer-2 solutions without needing to rewrite programming languages. Recently, Berachain launched Boyco, a pre-launch liquidity platform in collaboration with Enso and LayerZero, designed to address the cold start issue for new decentralized applications. Boyco’s pre-deposit vaults have already reached $2.2 billion.

    Celebrate the BERA Launch with a prize pool of 19,100 BERA & 50,000 USDT
    In a significant show of support for Berachain and its expansive ecosystem, MEXC is set to list the new BERA token. This move not only underscores MEXC’s commitment to pioneering blockchain projects but also connects users with a dynamic network that fuels cutting-edge initiatives.

    MEXC, known for quickly listing trending tokens, expands its offerings with Berachain (BERA). The BERA/USDT trading market officially launched in the Innovation Zone on February 6, 2025, at 13:00 (UTC), followed by the introduction of the BERA USDT perpetual futures at 13:10 (UTC), offering adjustable leverage from 1x to 50x with both cross and isolated margin modes.

    To celebrate the listing of Berachain (BERA) on MEXC Spot and Futures on February 6, MEXC is launching a series of exclusive activities starting on February 5, 2025, at 05:00 (UTC). Participants will have the chance to win BERA tokens, USDT bonuses, and other exciting rewards, with opportunities available for both new and experienced users.

    These activities include:

    • Event 1: Deposit and Share 14,000 BERA (New User Exclusive)

    Deposit at least 15 BERA or 100 USDT to qualify.
    Trade BERA Spot ($100) or trade BERA Perpetual Futures ($500) to earn 2 BERA each, limited to 3,500 users per activity, on a first-come, first-served basis.

    • Event 2: Spot Challenge — Trade to Share 1,000 BERA (Open to All Users).
    • Event 3: Futures Challenge — Trade to Share 50,000 USDT in Futures Bonuses (Open to All Users).

    The top 2,000 users with trading volumes over 20,000 USDT will share the reward pool, with individual rewards of up to 5,000 USDT.

    • Event 4: Invite New Users and Share 4,000 BERA.
    • Event 5: Spread the Word and Win 1,00 BERA Rewards

    Your Easiest Way to Trending Tokens
    MEXC aims to become the go-to platform offering the widest range of valuable crypto assets. The platform has grown its user base to 30 million by providing a diverse selection of tokens, high-frequency airdrops, and simple participation processes. In 2024, MEXC launched a total of 2,376 new tokens, including 1,716 initial listings and 605 memecoins, with total airdrop rewards exceeding $136 million.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 30 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.

    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    PR Manager
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by MEXC. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7423d696-0d03-4630-a1e9-69d0a78c2b2d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Bring Home the Sonic Soundscape, Experience Exceptional Audio on Samsung TVs & Soundbars with Dolby Atmos

    Source: Samsung

     
    GURUGRAM, India – 05, February 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today unveiled an innovative, original series titled ‘Foley – Sound Meets Story’ taking audiences to a cinematic journey through the art and science of immersive audio. This video series has been produced in collaboration with Dolby, and marks a significant step for Samsung in redefining its presence in the premium audio hardware segment. The collaboration combines the rich auditory expertise of Dolby with Samsung’s cutting-edge technology in TVs & Soundbars.
     
    ‘Foley – Sound Meets Story’ is a series with five episodes, and each episode is inspired by one of the five elements – fire, water, wind, jungle, and food. With insights from professional Foley artists, each episode showcases the artistry behind crafting soundscapes that embody the essence of these elements in Dolby Atmos®. The series delves into the role of Dolby Atmos in delivering an audio experience with sounds that can be heard and felt all around, before finally highlighting the Samsung hardware that brings these sounds to life with exceptional clarity and depth for consumers. Consumers will experience these immersive Dolby Atmos soundscapes firsthand at over 5,000 Samsung stores across India, supported by well-trained Samsung retail staff.  This multi-faceted approach brings the series to life both on and offline, emphasizing Dolby and Samsung’s commitment to providing a truly elevated audio experience.
     
    “At Samsung, innovation lies at the heart of everything we do. Our collaboration with Dolby on this exclusive series reflects our commitment to deliver immersive and professional-grade audio experiences to our consumers. By blending Dolby’s expertise in sound with Samsung TVs & Soundbars, we aim to redefine how Indian audiences perceive and interact with sound technology, creating unforgettable sensory experiences in their homes.”  said Viplesh Dang, Senior Director, Visual Display Business, Samsung India.
     
    Sameer Seth, Director Marketing – India, Dolby Laboratories said, “Dolby Atmos is at the forefront of transforming entertainment with its immersive, theatre-quality sound. ‘Foley – Sound Meets Story’ shot at Annapurna Studios, is a sincere effort that brings out the story of the Foley artist on what goes in creating these sound effects brought to life in Dolby Atmos. We are excited to work with Samsung to deliver several lifelike soundscapes for consumers to experience through their Dolby Atmos enabled Samsung TV and soundbar.
     
    Each episode of ‘Foley – Sound Meets Story’ highlights the crucial role of Dolby Atmos in designing an immersive soundscape, ultimately showcasing the hardware that brings these audio experiences to life for consumers.‘Foley – Sound Meets Story’ series is designed to leave a lasting impression on consumers and enhancing Samsung brand in the competitive audio market.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vladimir Spivakov held an open rehearsal as part of the project “Lesson with a Star”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The second season of the Lesson with a Star project has begun, in which outstanding artists conduct master classes, sharing their experience with students of Moscow art schools and students of creative colleges. The famous violinist and conductor, People’s Artist of the USSR, full Cavalier of the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland”, President of the Moscow International House of Music (MIHM) Vladimir Spivakov held an open rehearsal together with the State Chamber Orchestra “Moscow Virtuosi” that he heads. The lesson was held in the chamber hall of the MIHM.

    “The project, which began in 2024, has received a lively response from both students and teachers of children’s art schools and students of creative colleges, as well as representatives of culture and art – famous and experienced artists, artists, musicians. Thanks to “Lesson with a Star”, students of children’s art schools and students of specialized colleges last season were able to learn first-hand about all the intricacies of the profession. This year, we plan to develop new formats, including off-site classes for children in workshops, concert halls, theaters and studios where our mentors work,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Culture

    Alexey Fursin.

    More than 150 people attended the master class — talented children, teachers and parents. They were able to see the entire process of preparation for the upcoming concert. The young listeners were keenly interested in the fact that the soloist who participated in the rehearsal, 13-year-old pianist from Switzerland Lukas Schiesch, was their peer. The maestro’s comments on the intricacies of performing Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12, addressed to the soloist, were understandable to the young participants of the master class and were perceived as useful advice from the legendary musician, which can help in the daily learning process.

    “I am glad that such a meeting took place. In order for a person to become an individual in any field, and especially in music and art, great examples are needed. And such examples are received by the children with whom we work. I think that today’s meeting, which was so warm, will be remembered by them for a long time,” Vladimir Spivakov admitted after the rehearsal.

    In the second season of the project, famous musicians, artists, and sculptors prepared open lessons for students of Moscow art schools. Meetings with artists Konstantin Petrov and Nikas Safronov will take place in February.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is account to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect the Position of Mil-Sosi or Its Clients.

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149701073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: City fountains have begun to prepare for the new season

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Specialists from the city’s municipal services complex have begun preparing the capital’s fountains for the new season. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “Fountains are rightfully considered the calling card and decoration of the capital, there are both traditional structures, and dry, floating, musical and light-dynamic. We usually launch fountains at the end of April, so we have already begun to carry out preparatory activities in full,” noted Petr Biryukov.

    The specialists checked the structures that are underground and in the collectors of the structures. Now the experts are carrying out scheduled repairs of electromechanical equipment and underwater lighting, control systems and automation of all communications. Attention is also paid to hydraulic diagnostics. Pumping equipment, filters and jet-forming elements are put in order, ventilation and heating systems of the premises of pumping stations are checked.

    When the weather in the capital is stable above zero, the fountains will be unpreserved, washed with a special shampoo, the nozzles will be adjusted and the external lighting lamps will be checked. If necessary, the facing of the bowls and parapets will be put in order.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149725073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Spring Festival holiday box office hits record high of 9.51 billion yuan

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    People walk past a movie poster at a cinema in Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning Province, Feb. 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

    China’s film industry set a new record during the 2025 Spring Festival holiday, as the box office for the period from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4 reached a staggering 9.51 billion yuan (1.33 billion U.S. dollars), the China Film Administration announced Wednesday.

    The number of moviegoers also soared, with 187 million people attending theaters during the holiday, marking both a box office and attendance milestone.

    Leading the charge was the animated feature “Ne Zha 2,” which grossed around 4.84 billion yuan.

    Other top performers included “Detective Chinatown 1900,” “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force,” “Legends of the Condor Heroes: The Gallants,” “Boonie Bears: Future Reborn,” and “Operation Hadal,” which claimed the second to sixth spots, respectively, according to film data platform Maoyan.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: AppSecure Security Partners with Jazzee AI to Bolster US Market Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the US market, AppSecure Security, a global offensive Pentest and Red teaming company, has announced a partnership with Jazzee AI, an innovative SaaS and Cloud app marketplace. This collaboration aims to boost AppSecure’s customer acquisition in the United States while complementing Jazzee’s security offerings.

    Securing the Future of SaaS with Offensive Security Expertise

    AppSecure Security, renowned for its hacker-focused Pentesting and Red Teaming services, has earned a reputation for identifying and mitigating critical vulnerabilities in APIs and applications. With a clientele of over 300 global enterprises and startups, AppSecure, is a trusted partner in safeguarding digital ecosystems.

    Sandeep Hodkasia, Founder of AppSecure Security, shared his enthusiasm: “Partnering with Jazzee AI allows us to combine our offensive security expertise with Jazzee’s AI-driven innovation. Together, we’re not just enhancing cybersecurity; we’re enabling businesses to securely harness the power of the best SaaS tools available.”

    Agentic AI: Revolutionizing the Buying Experience

    At the heart of this partnership is Jazzee AI’s extensive use of Agentic AI. Jazzee’s revolutionary AI capabilities are encapsulated in its “mother agent,” a sophisticated chatbot that consolidates powerful tools such as the Buyer Assist Agent, Price Discovery Agent and Contract Analyzer Agent. This AI powerhouse empowers consumers to:

    • Identify the best product fit tailored to their needs.
    • Optimize budgets with intelligent negotiation guidance.
    • Access genuine, crowd-sourced reviews from real users across the internet.

    Rajat Dhariwal, Chief AI Officer and Co-founder of Jazzee, explained the vision: “Jazzee AI is redefining how businesses and consumers navigate the SaaS and Cloud app landscape. Our mother agent doesn’t just assist—it transforms decision-making, ensuring enterprise customers find the right tools, negotiate the best deals, and make informed, confident choices.”

    Driving Growth in a Booming Market

    The global application security market is expected to grow from USD 9.95 billion in 2023 to USD 25.30 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 14.3%. This partnership positions both companies to capitalize on this surge, addressing the growing sophistication of cyber threats and the increasing demand for AI-driven solutions. Jazzee’s platform, powered by Agentic AI, ensures clients can trust the SaaS solutions they choose while benefiting from robust cybersecurity measures provided by AppSecure.

    Transformative Synergy for US Enterprises

    AppSecure’s approach to security, which involves simulating real-world attack scenarios on APIs and applications, complements Jazzee’s AI-powered SaaS curation and optimization services. This synergy is expected to provide US enterprises with a comprehensive solution that not only secures their digital assets but also ensures they are utilizing the promising and trusted SaaS tools available.

    As both companies look to expand their footprint in the US market, this partnership represents a significant step towards creating a more secure and efficient digital ecosystem for businesses. With the combined strengths of AppSecure’s offensive security expertise and Jazzee’s AI-driven marketplace, US enterprises can look forward to a new era of cybersecurity and SaaS optimization.

    About Appsecure.security

    AppSecure Security is a CREST-accredited offensive cybersecurity company that provides comprehensive security solutions to protect businesses worldwide. With a team of skilled white hat hackers, including top bug bounty hunters from Fortune 500 companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, and Reddit, AppSecure offers a unique and robust approach to identifying and addressing critical security vulnerabilities.
    The company’s core philosophy revolves around an offensive security stance, which involves simulating real-world attacks to uncover concealed vulnerabilities from a hacker’s perspective. This proactive approach allows organizations to anticipate and prevent sophisticated system attacks before they occur.
    AppSecure’s services encompass a wide range of security solutions, including:

    1. Web Application Penetration Testing: Utilizing advanced red teaming techniques to identify and address potential weaknesses within web applications.
    2. API Security: Offering comprehensive testing of API endpoints to ensure airtight data flow and protection against common vulnerabilities.
    3. Network Penetration Testing: Conducting thorough assessments to uncover exposed internal pathways and blind spots in network security.
    4. Red Teaming Exercises: Simulating real-world attack scenarios to evaluate an organization’s security posture and response capabilities.

    The company’s methodology aligns with industry standards such as the OWASP Top 10 and the Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES). This ensures that their assessments are thorough, accurate, and up-to-date with the latest security threats and best practices.

    Media Contact:
    Name: Vrinda
    Website: https://appsecure.security
    Email: marketing@appsecure.security
    Ph.no.: +917018971376

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by the AppSecure Security. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9b52f376-8ce2-4634-922e-9b96072f9030

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sports park stress test smooth

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Police have reported that another large-scale stress test, held tonight with 50,000 spectators attending the Hong Kong Premier League U22 football match, ran smoothly at Kai Tak Sports Park’s Main Stadium.

    The exercise was conducted to assess the operational readiness of the Main Stadium and its surrounding facilities for sports events with maximum attendance.

    Similar to the previous large-scale stress tests, the drill was co-ordinated by the force’s Exercise Team, covering five major testing and evaluation areas: security screening and ticket checks; venue signage and designated seating arrangements; inter-agency co-ordination in response to emergencies; various crowd management measures; and passenger flow management by public transport operators.

    During the exercise, the Fire Services Department simulated two fire incidents of varying scales, aiming to test the communication and response capabilities of Fire Services personnel in co-ordination with Police, venue security and other emergency response teams. Police also simulated an emergency incident involving public safety and security to test the response of all stakeholders.

    The stress test was scheduled for a weekday evening, with a slight overlap between the entry time and rush hour after work. Meanwhile, the exercise concluded at a later time, with most participants choosing to leave the park immediately afterwards, thereby increasing the pressure on the transport system.

    Police implemented new crowd management measures, such as using large display panels along the exit routes to MTR stations to convey crowd management information, playing music and deploying police officers to provide real-time information on the spot to help participants leave safely.

    In the exercise, the public transport system and surrounding facilities were able to divert the large passenger flows within a short period of time, allowing participants to enter and leave the venue in an orderly manner.

    The Main Stadium’s retractable roof was opened for the first time during the stress test, aligning the testing time and mode more closely to the actual conditions of sports events, and the volume of noise during the test was found to be within the acceptable sound level.

    A total of 50,000 civil servants, government employees and members of community groups simulated crowd flows during the test.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Chinese New Year”: How the capital was transformed for the “Winters in Moscow” festival

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The festival “Chinese New Year in Moscow” invites city residents and tourists to stroll around the center of the capital, admire the bright and unusual decor and take spectacular photos. The main Chinese holiday is held as part of the project “Winter in Moscow”.

    The streets and alleys of the city were brightly decorated for this event. For example, strollers can see red lanterns, coins with holes, golden carps, butterflies, knots knitted from threads, which in Chinese culture represent happiness, luck, prosperity and joy. Beautiful traditional decor will allow all visitors to feel the atmosphere of an oriental fairy tale and get charged with a great mood.

    Triumphal Arch and a snake on a Christmas tree

    The journey through the decorated sites of the Chinese New Year in Moscow festival should start with Manezhnaya Square. Here you will be greeted by pailou — an ornamented triumphal gate. This is a traditional Chinese structure that used to be erected in honor of rulers, heroes or important events. Next to the pailou, light arches decorated with red and gold Chinese lanterns and inscriptions with New Year greetings sparkle. In the center of the square is a giant inflatable dragon. Since ancient times, this mythical animal has personified strength, wisdom and luck. On the New Year tree under the light tent, you can see the symbol of the year — a huge snake. It wraps around a fluffy beauty. And the top of another tree, slightly smaller, is conquered by a funny inflatable panda. Also nearby is a multi-colored big cat, which has become a favorite of children and adults.

    The entire Manezhnaya Square is framed by Chinese lanterns, creating a sense of a fairy tale. The shopping chalets are also beautifully decorated. They depict traditional Chinese hieroglyphs, which contain wishes of prosperity, happiness and well-being for each guest.

    From Manezhnaya Square, go to Revolution Square. Visitors will definitely notice the lushly decorated Christmas trees of different sizes. Plastic toys stand out on the branches of the New Year’s beauties, which reflect a combination of Chinese symbols and festive glitter. These are traditional Chinese coins with holes, tambourines, golden carp, and butterflies, which symbolize joy in China. In addition, the square is decorated with red lanterns, golden knots, diamond-shaped pictures with Chinese wishes for family happiness. And beautiful Chinese music sounds for guests here.

    Terracotta warriors of antiquity and golden carps

    In the passage between Manezhnaya Square and Revolution Square, a unique exhibition awaits guests. It is dedicated to the majestic terracotta army of Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi (3rd century BC). Visitors are presented with copies of clay figures of Chinese infantrymen, archers, and crossbowmen. Among the exhibits, you can also see the emperor himself surrounded by his entourage. Each statue is made with special attention to detail. This allows you to learn what the military uniform of both ordinary soldiers and military leaders looked like. At the exhibition, you can get acquainted with museum exhibits of different types of traditional Chinese weapons: swords, pikes, crossbows. A fragment of a historical Chinese street complements the exhibition. Here, guests are invited to stop and take beautiful and atmospheric photos as a keepsake.

    Afterwards, you can look at Nikolskaya Street and admire the Christmas trees with Chinese lanterns. Then it is worth going to Kamergersky Lane to see a large inflatable dragon. It is located next to the openwork light arch. The dragon’s head also decorates the main Christmas tree in Kamergersky Lane. And on the green beauty there are also decorations in the form of red berries, chests, and golden carp. Visitors can also see decorative Chinese abacuses, elegant hieroglyphs, and knots knitted from threads, symbolizing happiness, on the tree.

    Plush Pandas and Lucky Coins

    The next stop for strollers is Tverskaya Square. Everyone who gets here will be greeted by a large, friendly snake that smiles at visitors. This sculpture is impressive in size: seven meters high and four meters wide. It was created by Moscow craftsmen, hand-painted with fabulous patterns. In addition, Tverskaya Square is decorated with hundreds of Chinese coins of different sizes. They are a symbol of wealth and luck, and are also considered a talisman that brings harmony.

    You can finish your walk around the venues of the Chinese New Year in Moscow festival on Tverskoy Boulevard. There is an unusual exhibition called “From the Life of a Panda”. In glass pavilions there are huge plush pandas two meters tall. The toys hold tea ceremonies, pose among the blossoming sakura and launch a dragon. They also play the balalaika together with the Russian bear and are sent into space.

    Moscow is holding a large-scale celebration of the Lunar New Year until February 9. This is a continuation of the events held as part of the cross-cultural Years of Russia and China. Russian and Chinese artists perform at the festival venues, thematic quizzes and prize draws are held, master classes and lectures are organized, and guests can also try exquisite dishes of Chinese cuisine. The central streets of the city are decorated in traditional oriental style.

    The festival is organized by the Government of Moscow with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Russia.

    The Winter in Moscow project is the main event of the season, which brings together all the entertainment of the winter capital from December 1 to February 28. Guests of the capital are offered a huge selection of events in the open air and in the city’s cultural and sports institutions. They can skate, watch ice shows, drink aromatic tea with hot buns and get acquainted with traditions. Visitors also have the opportunity to give gifts to people who find themselves in a difficult life situation, and do much more. The atmosphere of winter traditions has embraced the entire city – more than 1.9 thousand sites are open. The project organically intertwined with the largest festivals of the capital “Moscow Estates”, “Moscow Tea Party”, “City of Light” and many others. All information about the project and the events of the winter season can be found in a special mos.ru section.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is account to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect the Position of Mil-Sosi or Its Clients.

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149722073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Beyoncé is right – music genres can force artists into conformity. But ditching them isn’t an option

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy McKenry, Professor of Music, Australian Catholic University

    Beyoncé appeared visibly astonished to hear her album Cowboy Carter had won best country album at this year’s Grammy Awards. Onstage, the singer offered a heartfelt reflection on musical genre:

    I think sometimes genre is a code word to keep us in our place as artists and I just want to encourage people to do what they’re passionate about and stay persistent.

    Beyoncé’s speech built on a more pointed critique of genre found in one of the tracks from her album, SPAGHETTII.

    The track opens with a soundbite from Linda Martell, a pioneering Black country music singer who enjoyed commercial success in the 1960s, but whose career was marred by both overt racial abuse and accusations she didn’t “sound black”. In the soundbite, Martell says:

    Genres are a funny little concept, aren’t they? […] In theory, they have a simple definition that’s easy to understand, but in practice, well, some may feel confined.

    This description of confinement was echoed in 2024, when the Country Music Association Awards controversially excluded Cowboy Carter from the nomination process due to insufficient radio airplay, as per the award rules.

    Media reports claimed some country radio stations refused to play, or were slow to play, Beyoncé’s new album because they didn’t recognise her as a country artist.

    Debates about the usefulness of genre have been around for a while, and won’t disappear anytime soon. Beyoncé’s Grammy win presses us to consider the relevance of genre in the modern music world – and the extent to which these rigid definitions can be justified.

    Is ‘genre’ useful in music?

    On one level, genre is a simple and necessary mechanism for categorising different types of music. Genre encodes various aspects of music, including instrumentation, the time period it originates from, its emotional character, and the melodic, rhythmic and harmonic conventions it employs.

    Terms such as jazz, rock, country, R&B, metal, hip-hop, folk and EDM are rich in meaning, and are routinely used as identity markers for performers – and for award categories at events like the Grammys. They also help us discuss our musical preferences, and teach and learn about music in educational settings.

    At the same time, these terms remain fluid and contested. Research tracking the rise and fall of musical genres highlights the power genres have in shaping our understanding and experience of music.

    Consider rock as an example. In the early 1950s, radio disc jockeys popularised the term rock’n’roll to describe a distinct style that drew from genres including rhythm and blues, gospel and country music, but which differed from each of these in character and function.

    The societal adoption of rock’n’roll as a “new” genre wasn’t just driven by the features present in the music, but by its resonance with a teenage audience for whom it signalled rebellion, associations with sexuality and a merging of different American music cultures.

    Just as Elvis Presley came to embody the genre, divergent practices gave rise to new and adapted terminology. “Rockabilly” (a style that combines elements of country and rock’n’roll) entered the lexicon. Rock’n’roll simply became “rock” and numerous adjectives such as “folk”, “psychedelic”, “progressive”, “punk”, “classic” and “hard” were attached to make sense of the continually evolving style.

    I’d argue the music of Elvis Presley has little in common with the stoner rock band Kyuss, yet we group them in the same broad musical taxonomy.

    Research has revealed significant inconsistencies in how people use and understand music genre terminology. Nonetheless, genre labels have historically been considered useful tools to communicate meaningful information about musical experiences.

    So, what’s Beyoncé’s problem with genre?

    Problems can arise for musicians when genres don’t simply describe musical practices, but work to control or distort them. Record labels have a profit imperative that incentivises artists to create music that’s easily categorised into well-established genres.

    The risk this incentive poses to creativity has traditionally been offset by audiences demanding new and diverse music – alongside a flourishing independent musical culture that either ignores or is overtly antagonistic towards the generic preferences of large record labels.

    That said, musicians are also pushed to adhere to narrow definitions of genre due to search functions in streaming services and methodologies used by music charts.

    For example, the ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) charts’ code of practice lists six genre charts: core classical, country, crossover/classical, dance, hip hop/R&B, and jazz and blues. And while the ARIAs have a range of mechanisms to track record sales, the codification of these genres inevitably influences Australian musicians who wish to make a living from their music.

    Beyond this, powerful cultural associations with certain genres can make their boundaries difficult to cross. Sometimes genre boundaries are rightly inflexible – particularly those associated with regional music-making or First Peoples’ cultures.

    Cowboy Carter however, represents a rediscovery and celebration of Black country musicians. It draws attention to how these musicians were neglected because they didn’t align with prevailing assumptions about the genre.

    The fact that Beyoncé’s choice to explore country music was in any way contentious emphasises this point. The foray by The Beatles’ drummer Ringo Starr into country music was, by contrast, uncontroversial.

    Genre as a framework is, ultimately, necessary. It’s impossible to discuss music without some way of making sense of it all. Listeners, however, should recognise that rigid genre definition can distort creativity. They should also reflect on whether it may be distorting their listening habits, too.

    Timothy McKenry 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. Beyoncé is right – music genres can force artists into conformity. But ditching them isn’t an option – https://theconversation.com/beyonce-is-right-music-genres-can-force-artists-into-conformity-but-ditching-them-isnt-an-option-249016

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Bold statement, or a product of misogyny? What Bianca Censori’s ‘naked dress’ says about fashion on the red carpet

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harriette Richards, Senior Lecturer, School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University

    Despite the many musical achievements celebrated at this year’s Grammy Awards, it was Bianca Censori’s red carpet appearance that won the award for most headlines.

    Walking the red carpet with her husband Ye (Kanye West), nominated for best rap song, Censori first appeared wrapped in an oversized black fur coat. As the couple stood to be photographed, she dropped the coat to reveal her outfit: a transparent mini dress with no underwear.

    In contrast to Ye, dressed head to toe in black, Censori’s nudity was shocking – yet somewhat unsurprising. Censori has become well known for her revealing outfits.

    In September 2023, Censori was photographed in Florence wearing sheer stockings and clutching a purple throw pillow to her chest in lieu of a top. Later that year, she was spotted in Miami wearing a skimpy metal mesh bikini and hugging onto a large fluffy cat soft toy. In 2024 she was seen in Los Angeles in a clear raincoat with nothing underneath and at a dinner in Italy wearing a sheer poncho, again with nothing underneath.

    And so-called “naked dresses”, like the one Censori wore to the Grammys, have pushed the boundaries of red carpet attire since 1974, when Cher famously wore a barely-there Bob Mackie gown to the Met Gala.

    Changing winds of fashion

    Since then, many models and actresses have embraced revealing clothing choices. Rose McGowan famously attended the MTV Video Music Awards with Marilyn Manson in 1998 wearing a chain mail dress by designer Maja Hanson that bared all.

    In 2014, Rihanna wore a daring sparkling gown at the CFDA Awards encrusted with 230,000 Swarovski crystals.

    At the 2017 Met Gala, both Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid wore transparent garments, Jenner in a La Perla slip and Hadid in a glittering Alexander Wang catsuit.

    In 2022, when Florence Pugh wore a magnificent pink dress at a Valentino couture show in Rome, she garnered international attention for the way the outfit revealed her nipples.

    For many commentators, these sheer, transparent or minimal garments have been bold fashion statements. They have also prompted conversations about misogyny and the policing of women’s bodies.

    Some previous instances of naked dressing have been cause for celebration. They seem to have symbolised a feminist victory, indicating the power of women to take control of their appearance and their bodies. This has perhaps been why they have remained so popular.

    However, as Donald Trump begins his second term as president with a new agenda for discriminatory gender politics, the trend now seems to be falling out of favour. Indeed, directly contrasting Censori’s look, the big names at Sunday’s event were wearing gowns that were all about design – not exposure.

    Charli XCX wore a voluminous grey corseted dress straight from the Jean Paul Gaultier Spring/Summer 2025 couture show by Ludovic de Saint Sernin. Sabrina Carpenter lent into old Hollywood glamour in a custom baby blue, low backed gown by JW Anderson. And Beyoncé wore a custom glittering gold Schiaparelli gown and opera gloves designed by Daniel Roseberry.

    Far from the positive responses some recent examples of naked dressing have garnered, commentary about Ye and Censori’s stunt – apparently an attempt to replicate Ye’s Vultures I album cover – bristled with concern, pity and accusations of abuse.

    But is it art?

    In large part, this response is because Censori has no voice. She does not give interviews or speak to the media. Her only form of communication is her body. That she frequently appears like a deer in headlights, her eyes wide and empty, provokes assumptions about her lack of autonomy in the choice to wear such daring outfits.

    Ye’s reputation for controlling behaviour merely exacerbates these assumptions.

    Some have argued the outfits Censori wears are a form of “performance art”. Whether or not she is complicit in their choreographed production is a source of much speculation.

    Regardless of who orchestrates these stunts or what their purpose is (beyond mere attention seeking), they are undoubtedly gendered. It is Censori’s body on display; Ye’s body remains concealed beneath layers of oversized black garments.

    They also call into question the very purpose of clothes as a practical protective layer between a vulnerable body and the world.

    It must be remembered that Censori was not wearing nothing. She was wearing a dress that exposed everything. But protective layer it was not. She eschewed protection – from the elements and the gaze of the world – in favour of risk, revelation and shock.

    For a pair who have capitalised on the attention received by wearing outlandishly revealing outfits, this new iteration seems to be a logical conclusion. But where does Censori go from here? There is nothing more to reveal.

    Harriette Richards 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. Bold statement, or a product of misogyny? What Bianca Censori’s ‘naked dress’ says about fashion on the red carpet – https://theconversation.com/bold-statement-or-a-product-of-misogyny-what-bianca-censoris-naked-dress-says-about-fashion-on-the-red-carpet-249001

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Anime meets tradition

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Adorned with long white hair and a vibrant cosplay skirt, Miya (pseudonym), a 24-year-old from the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, joined thousands of anime fans and cosplayers at the first Beijing Animation Comic Carnival.

    The carnival, held from Jan 31 to Feb 2 at the Capital International Exhibition Center of China in Beijing, brought together cosplayers and anime enthusiasts to celebrate the Chinese New Year, blending traditional customs with a modern twist.

    Miya attended the event dressed as her favorite character, Firefly, from the strategic space adventure game Honkai: Star Rail, developed by Chinese game company miHoYo. Firefly is a warrior tasked with protecting her queen from a devastating insectoid threat.

    “Firefly’s dedication to safeguarding others really resonates with me,” Miya said. “She embodies courage and a love for life — qualities I want to hold in my own life.”

    Unlike other anime expos Miya had attended, which primarily showcased merchandise, the carnival featured snack stalls and interactive games inspired by Chinese New Year traditions, such as riddles and stamp-collecting challenges.

    “The carnival created such a strong sense of community,” Miya said. “When I danced with fellow fans, it felt like stepping into the anime world, surrounded by an exciting atmosphere. Sharing those moments with them made the New Year holiday feel even more special.”

    Some cosplayers chose to incorporate auspicious elements into their costumes to express good wishes for the New Year. One of them is Wyatt (pseudonym), a 24-year-old from Jiangxi province.

    For Wyatt, attending the carnival enriched his New Year celebrations by combining the charm of anime culture with traditional festivities.

    He cosplayed as Aventurine, also a character from Honkai: Star Rail, known for his wealth and good fortune. His costume featured motifs such as golden ingots, jade pendants, and auspicious cloud patterns — symbols of prosperity and good luck in Chinese culture.

    “Cosplaying as Aventurine isn’t just about paying homage to the character; it also represents my hopes for a blessed New Year,” Wyatt explained. “This fusion allows me to express my passion for anime culture in a meaningful way while fully immersing myself in the joyous, vibrant spirit of the Spring Festival.”

    Zhen Taiyue, 24, has been an anime fan since primary school. He noted that, beyond offline events like the carnival, anime enthusiasts have also brought the New Year celebrations online through various videos and music projects.

    One of them is the annual online event Bainianji (meaning “celebration of the Chinese New Year”), produced by the video-sharing platform Bilibili.

    The event showcases popular anime intellectual properties through videos, creating an online community where fans exchange New Year greetings via bullet comments.

    According to Zhen, these activities offer young audiences an innovative way to celebrate — not just with family, but through shared passions.

    “It’s a different kind of ‘family reunion’ — one that’s unique to young people, fostering a special sense of belonging,” he said.

    Beyond the festivities

    Liang Yuexi (pseudonym), born under the Chinese zodiac sign of the Snake, was a special guest at the carnival. She chose to spend her New Year holiday with her fans, dressed as Feng Baobao, a character from The Outcast, a Chinese metaphysical comic series first published in 2015.

    For Liang, cosplay is a path to freedom and authenticity. “In daily life, we often play roles out of obligation. Cosplay lets me temporarily escape and embrace a persona I truly admire,” she said.

    She explained that Feng Baobao’s simple, direct, and pure qualities resonate with her, making the portrayal feel natural.

    “True cosplay is about embodying a character’s spirit, not just copying their appearance. It’s a form of deep empathy and liberation,” she said.

    Liang took her love for cosplay a step further, turning it into a career. As an animation lecturer and cosplay-focused blogger, she believes comics have the power to ignite passion in young people.

    “By faithfully recreating beloved characters, cosplay can inspire those who feel lost to rediscover their courage,” Liang said. “As a performer, I find great satisfaction in seeing how my hobby can empower others.”

    Sa Laoshi (pseudonym) is also a special guest at the carnival. As a video blogger, he is dedicated to revitalizing the culture of Sanxingdui, an ancient archaeological site in Sichuan province, through cosplay.

    To date, Sa has handcrafted six costumes, each with a unique meaning and name, reimagining the divine essence of the ancient Shu civilization, which thrived more than 3,000 years ago.

    His creative work has earned him over 375,000 followers on Bilibili.

    For Sa, cosplay is a way to promote cultural exchange. One of his most memorable experiences was attending a comic exhibition for the first time two years ago, where he encountered a foreign photographer eager to take photos of his costume.

    “I noticed the photographer had been following me for a while, but I couldn’t speak English. He pointed at his camera, signaling that he wanted to take photos of me,” Sa recalled. “We hardly spoke, but I was thrilled that cosplay gave me the opportunity to introduce the beauty of Sanxingdui to friends around the world.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police appealing for information on stolen service medals, Waihi

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are appealing for information to reunite a number of service medals with their rightful owners after being stolen during a burglary in Waihi.

    The selection of medals were among a range of property taken from an address on Trig Road North between 6pm on Sunday 1 February and 2pm on Monday 3 February.

    The seven service medals are of extreme sentimental and historical value, and are of great importance to the victims and their family.

    Other items stolen during the burglary include two Stihl chainsaws, a hedge cutter, a cordless drill, an angle grinder and battery, wedding rings, and other personal jewellery.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the Trig Road North area between Saturday evening and Monday afternoon.

    Police are also appealing for any CCTV or dashcam footage in the area that may assist in our investigation locating the service medals and holding the alleged offenders to account.

    If you have any information that may assist Police in our investigation, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    You can also provide information in person at the Waihi Police Station or anonymously through Crime Stoppers via 0800 555 111.

    Please use the reference number 250203/0911.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s box office refreshes Spring Festival holiday record

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    People walk into a cinema in Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s box office revenue for the 2025 Spring Festival holiday has reached 8.02 billion yuan (about 112 million U.S. dollars) as of Monday, setting a new record for the same period in the country’s film industry history, according to data from the China Film Administration.

    Meanwhile, China’s 2025 total box office, including real-time presales, has surpassed 10 billion yuan, ranking first globally.

    The daily box office has exceeded 1 billion yuan for six consecutive days since Jan. 29, when six films targeting the holiday season were released.

    “The films span various genres, including martial arts, mythology, comedy, and action, catering to the preferences of audiences across different age groups,” said Huangfu Yichuan, a research fellow at the China Film Art Research Center.

    The number of moviegoers also hit a new record, laying a stronger foundation for both the audience base and market growth of China’s film industry, said Rao Shuguang, president of the China Film Critics Association.

    The films on the top of the box office chart were all domestic productions. Leading the pack was the animated fantasy “Ne Zha 2,” the sequel to the 2019 hit “Ne Zha.” “Ne Zha 2” has earned over 3.8 billion yuan since its screening.

    Trailing behind was “Detective Chinatown 1900,” a thriller comedy and part of the successful Detective Chinatown franchise, which has raked in nearly 2 billion yuan.

    “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force” came in third and has grossed over 900 million yuan.

    “The historic high box office of the Spring Festival holiday reflects the high-quality development in domestic films and highlights the strong recognition of Chinese traditional culture among audiences,” said Rao.

    “It also indicates vibrant consumption during the holiday as well as the consumers’ confidence in domestic productions,” he added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Guizhou eyes outsourcing sector role

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A scene in The War of the Rohirrim. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

    As Warner Bros’ animated film The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim debuts globally, a company from Guizhou province has left its mark, having contributed keyframe animation, coloring and cinematography to the movie.

    At the helm is Xu Chenyin, manager of Junzi Qianxing Technology Media. Xu, who was a former animation professional in Japan, runs the company in Guiyang, the provincial capital. He also serves as a member of the Guizhou Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

    During the provincial legislative session in January, Xu submitted a proposal on promoting the development of Guizhou’s service outsourcing industry.

    “Guizhou has the potential to attract high-value outsourcing projects such as digital services and creative design,” he said. “With the increasing specialization of international labor, developed countries are outsourcing non-core services to regions with lower costs and higher efficiency.”

    Guiyang has already seen growth in the industry. According to local authorities, service outsourcing execution in the city grew 16.58 percent year-on-year in 2024, with offshore outsourcing surging 59.18 percent and domestic outsourcing increasing 12.67 percent.

    Beyond direct benefits, Xu said he believes that service outsourcing can accelerate industrial upgrades.

    However, he also pointed out a major challenge: a shortage of skilled talent.

    “In today’s decentralized production landscape, geographical barriers are no longer an issue in joining the global industry. The real challenge lies in addressing the talent gap.”

    This year, Xu recommended “partnering with universities, research institutes and enterprises to optimize academic programs based on market demands, introduce globally recognized certification courses and strengthen practical training”.

    He also suggested launching targeted recruitment initiatives in fields such as big data, artificial intelligence and business negotiations while offering competitive incentives.

    Xu highlighted the collaboration between Guizhou’s big data and service outsourcing sectors.

    “In animation, for example, big data offers a wealth of image, audio and video resources that serve as valuable references for production,” Xu said.

    One key example is rendering – the process of converting 3D scenes into 2D images. This resource-intensive animation step often demands costly hardware.

    “Cloud computing resources, developed through its data industry, offer a cost-effective solution. Cloud rendering platforms reduce production cycles and costs,” Xu explained.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: S. Korea’s court holds 5th hearing of Yoon’s impeachment trial

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    South Korea’s constitutional court on Tuesday held the fifth hearing of impeachment trial on President Yoon Suk-yeol, with the arrested president being present for the third time.

    Yoon presented himself at the courtroom in central Seoul at about 2:00 p.m. local time (0500 GMT) after attending the third and fourth hearings last month.

    During the fifth hearing, Yoon said that “nothing really happened” on the night of Dec. 3 last year when he declared an emergency martial law, denying allegations that he ordered martial law troops to drag lawmakers out of the hall of the National Assembly that revoked the martial law hours later.

    Throughout the midnight hours, military helicopters landed at the National Assembly and hundreds of armed special forces troops broke into the parliamentary building, TV footage showed.

    Under the constitution, a president is required to report the martial law imposition to the National Assembly, the sole body with the right to repeal martial law.

    Yoon claimed that he intended to appeal to people in the form of martial law and lift it when the parliament voted against it, but he noted that such intention was shared only with former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, not with other cabinet members.

    According to the prosecution’s indictment, Yoon urged military commanders over phone to push martial law troops into the parliamentary chamber, where the lawmakers gathered to lift the martial law, by “firing guns” and “using axes” to break the door open.

    Lee Jin-woo, former chief of the Capital Defense Command accused of his involvement in the martial law imposition, refused to testify during the hearing, saying he was restricted in testimony as his own criminal case was underway.

    Lee only admitted that he talked with Yoon on the phone on the night of the martial law declaration.

    Yeo In-hyung, former head of the Defense Counterintelligence Command, also refused to testify that he had received orders from the former defense minister to arrest and detain politicians, including chiefs of the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party.

    Officially confirming Yoon’s direct order to arrest the politicians, Hong Jang-won, former first deputy director of the National Intelligence Service, said in the hearing that Yoon gave him orders to help the defense counterintelligence command “round up all” of the politicians.

    Hong told lawmakers last month that he was given the orders over phone around 20 minutes after the martial law declaration.

    Yoon testified that his instructions to assist the defense counterintelligence command had nothing to do with the martial law imposition.

    Next hearings were scheduled to be held on Feb. 6, 11 and 13.

    The motion to impeach Yoon was passed through the National Assembly on Dec. 14 last year and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon’s presidential power is suspended.

    Yoon was apprehended in the presidential office on Jan. 15, becoming the country’s first sitting president to be arrested.

    Yoon, who was named as a suspected ringleader of insurrection, was indicted under detention on Jan. 26, becoming the country’s first incumbent president to be put on trial in custody.

    The South Korean president was accused of conspiring with the former defense minister, who had already been indicted under detention, to declare unconstitutional, illegal martial law and dispatch armed forces into the National Assembly.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Milo Hartill’s Black, Fat and F**gy is rough around the edges – and all the more beautiful for it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jonathan Graffam-O’Meara, PhD Candidate in Theatre, Monash University

    Matto Lucas/UMAC/Midsumma

    Milo Hartill is “Black, fat and f**gy”, according to the title of her new cabaret work.

    Actor, model, influencer and one helluva singer, 24-year-old Hartill shines. Black, Fat and F**gy is an autobiographical show, tracing defining moments of Hartill’s life as a Black, fat and queer person who grew up in Western Australia and now works in show biz.

    Centred in its name, the performance wades through aspects of her intersectional identity. This itself serves as a loose structure for the production: Blackness to fatness to queerness, with clear overlaps.

    The unapologetic self

    Hartill leans into stereotypes and tropes so hard she ultimately upends them.

    An early moment has her teasing an audience member – importantly, a white audience member – with an invitation to touch her hair. It’s a stunning moment within the work as it plays out, an image potentially loaded with racism interjected into performance with subversive, tongue-in-cheek humour and support for the chosen audience member.

    It leads immediately into a rendition of Solange’s Don’t Touch My Hair. Other featured songs include Chaka Khan’s I’m Every Woman, Frank Sinatra’s Something Stupid (performed with puppetry) and Whitney Houston’s I Have Nothing, with notable changes to the lyrics to fit the themes and tone of the show.

    Hartill is supported onstage by Lucy O’Brien on piano, who regularly chimes in with commentary and humour. The duo share a strong bond, their rapport is apparent and endearing. Within the first minute of the show we are eating from the palm of their hands.

    The duo read out examples of real, fat-phobic hate mail sent to Hartill’s social media inboxes.

    As an artist and researcher in fat-centred performance, for me, this is one of the more interesting moments in the show. It unapologetically adopts a didactic mode of delivery, revealing to audiences the kinds of despicable, violent language directed at fat people.

    Black, Fat and F**gy is an entirely unique, memorable and vital performance work.
    Matto Lucas/UMAC/Midsumma

    Theatre audiences (and makers, especially) tend to despise these kinds of didactic moments, especially pertaining to identity politics, as it marks a shift from “showing” (with metaphor) to “telling” in its messaging.

    But how else can performance give contextual significance to something without this kind of direct telling, especially when most audiences will not have an embodied experience of fatness to draw on and make inferences?

    Unless you have directly seen or heard the unrelenting, unmitigated hate speech directed at fat bodies, it is difficult to capture or convey. The “unique” aspect of this language, laid bare by Hartill in performance, is that it is delivered with a sense of righteousness: that this person is in a way helping the fat person by shaming them.

    Moments like this serve a vital function in how performance can, broadly, capture both actual experiences and associated feelings related to a topic, while aiming to impart some new knowledge or finding for its audience to take away, to sit with, to talk about and maybe go on to learn more on.

    A beautiful mixed bag

    This didactic mode of delivery is only fleeting within the show. Adopting a cabaret-style delivery (but with standard theatre seated rows), Black, Fat and F**gy weaves together aspects of musical theatre (songs), stand-up (humour) and drag performance (aesthetic): it is a queerly hybrid form.

    The show is rough around the edges. The performance allows for a high level of improvisation and audience engagement, which can lead to stalled moments and interruptions of laughter. Performance scholar T.L. Cowan writes the improvisatory nature of cabaret informs a “cabaret consciousness” that “allows an audience to enjoy a show not in spite of the mixed-bag-ness of cabaret, but because of it”.

    The mixed-bag-ness of Black, Fat and F**gy is its charm, and Hartill complements this style with a mixed-bag delivery of tricks from her deep repertoire of skills.

    The show weaves together songs, stand-up and drag: it is a queerly hybrid form.
    Matto Lucas/UMAC/Midsumma

    Black, Fat and F**gy is an entirely unique, memorable and vital performance work you should move to the top of your list of must-see Midsumma events. The production is a 70-minute-plus romp which will leave you crying, both from laughter and by acknowledging the current climate against Black, fat f*gs everywhere.

    Black Fat and F**gy is at the Guild Theatre, University of Melbourne, for Midsumma Festival until February 6.

    Jonathan Graffam-O’Meara 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. Milo Hartill’s Black, Fat and F**gy is rough around the edges – and all the more beautiful for it – https://theconversation.com/milo-hartills-black-fat-and-f-gy-is-rough-around-the-edges-and-all-the-more-beautiful-for-it-248998

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Spring Festival boosts travel, consumption

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    People walk past a movie poster at a cinema in Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning Province, Feb. 4, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    As China wraps up its 8-day Spring Festival holiday celebrating the start of the Year of the Snake, the world’s second-largest economy has witnessed shopping and travel booms ignited by hundreds of millions of Chinese people’s family reunions.
    This year’s holiday, from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4, marks the second consecutive year that people in China have experienced an extended public holiday. People flocked to tourist destinations, enjoyed cultural experiences and indulged in holiday shopping.
    With a string of holiday-targeted domestic blockbusters bringing numerous moviegoers to cinemas across China, the country’s film industry proved to be one of the biggest winners during this Spring Festival consumption spree.
    From Jan. 29 to Feb. 3, the daily box office exceeded 1 billion yuan (nearly 140 million U.S. dollars) for six consecutive days, bringing China’s box office revenue for the 2025 Spring Festival holiday to 8.02 billion yuan, a new record for the same period in the country’s film industry history.
    Meanwhile, according to data from the China Film Administration, China’s total box office in 2025, including real-time presales, has surpassed 10 billion yuan, ranking it first globally.
    Notably, the films on the top of the box office chart were all domestic productions, with “Ne Zha 2,” the animated sequel to the 2019 hit, earning over 3.8 billion yuan.
    While cinema boomed during the holiday, so did travel and leisure activities across China. Many chose to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in person.
    In China’s top ski destination, Altay Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the period from Jan. 28 to 31 saw 191,900 visitors, generating 225 million yuan in tourism revenue.
    Skiing has definitely become the most popular activity in Altay during the holiday, with a record number of skiers — over 10,000 — visiting the Jiangjunshan ski resort on Feb. 2, marking a 23 percent increase from the previous year.
    Situated at 45 to 47 degrees north latitude, Altay enjoys 170 to 180 days of snowfall annually. In mountainous areas, snow depths average 1 to 2 meters. The terrain is ideal for skiing due to vertical drops of over 1,000 meters.
    “The resort offers many terrain parks and creative features suitable for all levels, making it a great place for everyone to enjoy and challenge themselves,” said Zhang Zhujun, a snowboarding enthusiast at the resort.
    Far to the south, the picturesque Yangshuo County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, draws large numbers of domestic and international visitors with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural activities. From Jan. 28 to 30, the county welcomed an estimated 410,600 tourists, generating tourism revenue of 589 million yuan.
    Lhasa, the capital city of southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, has also seen a surge in visitors. From Jan. 28 to Feb. 3, the city received 1.95 million tourists, up by 20.6 percent year on year, grossing a total tourism revenue of nearly 1.76 billion yuan, a 14.75 percent year-on-year rise, according to Lhasa’s municipal bureau of culture and tourism.
    Travel booking platforms echoed the overall trend, with data from Fliggy, a leading online travel agency, showing a surge in bookings, especially from cities like Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. International travel orders increased significantly, with international cruise bookings up more than sixfold compared to the previous year.
    Shanghai Airport Group reported that passenger traffic on Sunday hit a new all-time high of 404,000 people, with Pudong airport seeing 259,000 passengers and Hongqiao airport 145,000.
    As the holiday drew to a close, airports and transportation hubs in Shanghai braced for the return of travelers, with heightened coordination of metro, bus and taxi services to ensure smooth transportation, said the group.
    On Monday, the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. reported a historic milestone as the country’s railways transported 16.45 million passengers, marking the highest single-day passenger traffic in the history of the Spring Festival travel rush.
    On Tuesday, the last day of the holiday, the national railway system is expected to carry 16.9 million passengers, further highlighting the peak in travel activity as hundreds of millions of people return to their destinations after family reunions.
    Consumption was another standout trend, with an increasing number of people seeking to experience China’s rich heritage, motivated by the inscription of the Spring Festival on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2024.
    According to data from the Ministry of Commerce, sales at major retail and catering enterprises across China during the first four days of the holiday increased by 5.4 percent compared to the same period last year.
    Spring Festival has boosted Chinese consumers’ appetite for imported food and drinks, such as lobsters, cherries and wines. “Due to rising demand in the Spring Festival, our company’s import has increased by nearly 50 percent in the past month,” said Yang Xinyu from a Guangzhou-based international supply chain company.
    Since January, the customs authority of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has handled imported aquatic animals, such as lobsters and mud crabs, with a total value of over 14.3 million yuan, a year-on-year surge of 31.8 percent.
    Meituan, one of China’s leading e-commerce platforms for services, reported a staggering 300 percent year-on-year increase in online reservations for Chinese Lunar New Year’s Eve dinners. Additionally, group-buying orders for “intangible cultural heritage”-themed packages have surged by over 12 times since January year on year, reflecting growing consumer interest in cultural experiences.
    Experts noted that this holiday season saw a shift in consumer behavior, particularly among younger generations and families. “Young families are increasingly becoming the driving force of consumption, with a trend toward diversified, high-quality and culturally rich experiences,” said Sun Jiashan, an associate researcher from the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration.
    Data from Meituan Travel echoed Sun’s observation that young people increasingly chose to celebrate the Spring Festival in smaller cities, immersing themselves in intangible cultural heritage and historical landmarks.
    The increase in cultural tourism and consumption, from heritage experiences to blockbuster films, indicates a growing demand for traditional and contemporary cultural activities.
    “This trend has also raised higher demands for the supply of cultural and tourism products and services, prompting the introduction of new business models and formats that better align with contemporary cultural consumption patterns,” said Sun, highlighting the potential of China’s consumer market and the economy’s internal driving forces.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Matildas mural officially unveiled at Accor Stadium

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 5 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Sport, Minister for Women

    The Minns Labor Government has today unveiled the artist and artwork that will be projected onto Accor Stadium to celebrate the Matildas’ history-making campaign at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

    This is the first mural in a new series that will commemorate the greatest moments in sport and entertainment at Australia’s home of major events at Accor Stadium, which is celebrating 25 years since the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games.

    In their first World Cup on home soil, the Matildas progressed through to the semi-final smashing all records in the process across crowds, TV viewership and inspiring a new generation with rapidly increasing participation rates.

    Artist Kirthana Selvaraj has painted a striking artwork that captures the key players who inspired a nation. The artwork will be transformed into a 57-metre-long immersive mural that extends across the exterior of Accor Stadium’s Cathy Freeman Stand.

    Matildas captain Sam Kerr’s wonder strike and celebration against England has been illustrated in the mural, as has Mackenzie Arnold’s brilliance in goals and young star Courtney Vine’s composure to kick the winning penalty goal against France in the quarter-final, among other key moments.

    The public will have an opportunity to view the mural for the first time in April to celebrate the team’s two upcoming Sydney and Newcastle games which have been announced for April 4 (Allianz Stadium) and April 7 (McDonald Jones Stadium).

    Sydney was the main host city of the tournament, with 11 games and more than 600,000 fans hosted across Accor and Allianz stadiums.

    This mural further builds on the Minns Labor Government’s acknowledgement of great female athletes in our sporting venues including through the renaming of Accor Stadium’s eastern grandstand in honour of sporting legend Cathy Freeman OAM.

    Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

    “It’s long overdue that our nation’s inspirational female athletes are provided with recognition of some of the greatest sporting achievements in our nation’s history.

    “The Matildas captivated the nation like never before smashing all kinds of records and inspiring a new generation of sports stars, participants and fans.

    “Their game-changing tournament will be perfectly honoured with this mural which will be fittingly projected onto the exterior of the Cathy Freeman Stand – the first grandstand in a major Australian stadium to be named after a female athlete.”

    Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

    “The saying goes, you can’t be what you can’t see. It’s fair to say the Matildas World Cup campaign opened the eyes of a generation.

    “The Matildas effect is still being felt today with more girls and women playing the game thanks to the team’s achievement at the Women’s World Cup.

    “This mural will forever celebrate the success of the Matildas who inspired us all.”

    Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

    “The Matildas are one of our most admired national sporting teams and have inspired a whole generation of women and girls to participate in sports and dream big.

    “This mural is a great way to immortalise an incredible sporting moment, as well as public recognition of women’s sporting achievements.

    “It also symbolises the NSW government’s ongoing commitment to recognising and empowering women and girls to have full access to opportunity and choice, and excel in the world of sport.”

    Artist Kirthana Selvaraj said:

    “It has been an honour to create this painting commemorating the Matildas during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

    “Women in sport have always been a vital part of the game’s history, and this work is a celebration of their enduring legacy.

    “Through this piece, I hoped to capture not only the strength and grace of the Matildas but also the unyielding spirit and unity they inspire in all of us.

    “I hope this artwork stands as a permanent reminder of the impact women have made – and continue to make – not just on the field but in shaping the broader public’s connection to sport. It’s a tribute to the trailblazers who came before, the athletes who shine today, and the young people who will carry their legacy forward.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Landmark Bancorp, Inc. Announces 6.3% Increase in Net Earnings for the Year Ended December 31, 2024, and Fourth Quarter Earnings Per Share of $0.57. Declares Cash Dividend of $0.21 per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Manhattan, KS, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Landmark Bancorp, Inc. (“Landmark”; Nasdaq: LARK) reported diluted earnings per share of $0.57 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $0.68 per share in the third quarter of 2024 and $0.46 per share in the same quarter last year. Net income for the fourth quarter totaled $3.3 million, compared to $2.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 and $3.9 million in the prior quarter. For the three months ended December 31, 2024, the return on average assets was 0.83%, the return on average equity was 9.54% and the efficiency ratio was 70.0%.

    For the year ended December 31, 2024, diluted earnings per share totaled $2.26 compared to $2.13 during 2023. Net earnings for 2024 totaled $13.0 million, compared to $12.2 million in 2023, or an increase of 6.3%. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the return on average assets was 0.83%, the return on average equity was 10.01% and the efficiency ratio was 69.1%.

    2024 Performance Highlights

      ● Fourth quarter loan growth totaled $50.5 million or an annualized increase of 20.1% over the prior quarter.
      ● For the year, gross loans grew $103.7 million or 10.9%.
      ● Net interest margin improved 21 basis points to 3.51% compared to 3.30% in prior quarter.
      ● Deposits increased $53.3 million, or 16.6% annualized, from the prior quarter.
      ● Total borrowings decreased $34.7 million in the fourth quarter.
      ● A pre-tax loss of $1.0 million was realized in the fourth quarter to reposition a portion of the investment portfolio.
      ● Credit quality remained good with net charge-offs totaling $219,000 in the fourth quarter.
         

    In making this announcement, Abby Wendel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Landmark, commented, “During 2024, we experienced strong loan demand, especially for residential mortgages and commercial real estate loans. In the fourth quarter 2024, we saw strong growth in virtually all loan categories, with total gross loans increasing by $51 million or 20% (annualized). Total deposits also increased in the fourth quarter by more than $53 million, mostly due to seasonal growth in money market and interest checking accounts. The increase in deposits coupled with investment securities sales and maturities this quarter helped fund loan growth and reduce expensive short-term borrowings. For the year, net interest income grew 5.6% over the previous year while in the fourth quarter 2024 our net interest margin improved to 3.51%. Strategic investments in our people and product offerings resulted in higher non-interest expenses, particularly in the fourth quarter. Credit quality remained solid overall.”

    Landmark’s Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.21 per share, to be paid March 5, 2025, to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 19, 2025. On December 16, 2024, the Company issued a 5% stock dividend to common stockholders, representing the 24th consecutive year that a stock dividend has been paid.

    Management will host a conference call to discuss the Company’s financial results at 10:00 a.m. (Central time) on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Investors may participate via telephone by dialing (833) 470-1428 and using access code 296482. A replay of the call will be available through February 12, 2025, by dialing (866) 813-9403 and using access code 817329.

    Net Interest Income

    Net interest income in the fourth quarter of 2024 amounted to $12.4 million representing an increase of $795,000, or 6.9%, compared to the previous quarter. The increase in net interest income was due mainly to lower interest expense on deposits and other borrowed funds. The net interest margin increased to 3.51% during the fourth quarter from 3.30% during the prior quarter. Compared to the previous quarter, interest income on loans increased $22,000 to $16.0 million due to higher average balances but partially offset by lower yields on loans. Average loan balances increased $24.5 million while the average tax-equivalent yield on the loan portfolio decreased 15 basis points to 6.28%. Interest on investment securities declined slightly due to lower balances while partially offset by higher earning rates. Compared to the third quarter 2024, interest on deposits decreased $480,000, or 8.2% mainly due to lower rates, while interest on other borrowed funds declined by $363,000, due to lower rates and balances. The average rate on interest-bearing deposits decreased 23 basis points to 2.25% while the average rate on other borrowed funds decreased 51 basis points to 5.10% in the fourth quarter.

    Non-Interest Income

    Non-interest income totaled $3.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, a decrease of $882,000 from the previous quarter. The decrease in non-interest income during the fourth quarter of 2024 was primarily due to a $1.0 million loss on the sales of lower yielding investment securities mentioned above, while the third quarter of 2024 did not include any sales of investment securities. Additionally, lower sales of residential mortgages this quarter resulted in a decline of $182,000 in gains on sales of these mortgages. The decline in other non-interest income of $221,000 this quarter compared to the prior quarter resulted from sales of premises, equipment and foreclosed assets that did not re-occur in the current quarter. Partially offsetting those declines was an increase of $722,000 in bank owned life insurance income.

    Non-Interest Expense

    During the fourth quarter of 2024, non-interest expense totaled $11.9 million, an increase of $1.3 million compared to the prior quarter. The increase in non-interest expense was primarily due to increases of $470,000 in professional fees and $461,000 in compensation and benefits. The increase in professional fees this quarter was primarily due to higher consulting costs on several initiatives. The increase in compensation and benefits was attributable to an increase in employees and higher incentive compensation costs.

    Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

    Landmark recorded an income tax benefit of $886,000 in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to income tax expense of $867,000 in the prior quarter. The effective tax rate was (37.0%) in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to 18.1% in the third quarter of 2024. The fourth quarter of 2024 included the recognition of $1.0 million of previously unrecognized tax benefits, which reduced the effective tax rate.

    Balance Sheet Highlights

    As of December 31, 2024, gross loans totaled $1.1 billion, an increase of $50.5 million, or 20.1% annualized since September 30, 2024. During the quarter, loan growth was primarily comprised of commercial real estate (growth of $21.1 million), commercial (growth of $10.7 million), agriculture (growth of $8.6 million) and one-to-four family residential real estate (growth of $7.8 million) loans. Investment securities decreased $38.5 million during the fourth quarter of 2024 and included sales of $36.0 million in low-rate U.S. treasury securities offset by purchases of $18.0 million in market rate U.S. treasury securities. Pre-tax unrealized net losses on the investment securities portfolio increased from $13.3 million at September 30, 2024 to $20.9 million at December 31, 2024 mainly due to higher market rates for these securities at year end.

    Period end deposit balances increased $53.3 million to $1.3 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase in deposits was mainly driven by an increase in money market and checking (increase of $71.3 million) but partially offset by declines in certificates of deposit (decrease of $9.2 million) and non-interest-bearing demand deposits (decrease of $8.6 million). The increase in money market and checking accounts was mainly driven by seasonal growth in public fund deposit account balances. Total borrowings decreased $34.7 million during the fourth quarter 2024. At December 31, 2024, the loan to deposits ratio was 78.2% compared to 77.6% in the prior quarter.

    Stockholders’ equity decreased to $136.2 million (book value of $23.59 per share) as of December 31, 2024, from $139.7 million (book value of $24.18 per share) as of September 30, 2024. The decrease in stockholders’ equity was due to an increase in accumulated other comprehensive losses as the unrealized net losses on investments securities increased during the fourth quarter. The ratio of equity to total assets decreased to 8.65% on December 31, 2024, from 8.93% on September 30, 2024.

    The allowance for credit losses totaled $12.8 million, or 1.22% of total gross loans on December 31, 2024, compared to $11.5 million, or 1.15% of total gross loans on September 30, 2024. Net loan charge-offs totaled $219,000 in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $9,000 during the third quarter of 2024. A provision for credit losses for loans of $1.5 million was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $650,000 in the third quarter of 2024.

    Non-performing loans totaled $13.1 million, or 1.25% of gross loans at December 31, 2024 compared to $13.4 million, or 1.34% of gross loans at September 30, 2024. Loans 30-89 days delinquent declined to $6.2 million, or 0.59% of gross loans, as of December 31, 2024, compared to $7.3 million, or 0.73% of gross loans, as of September 30, 2024.

    About Landmark

    Landmark Bancorp, Inc., the holding company for Landmark National Bank, is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “LARK.” Headquartered in Manhattan, Kansas, Landmark National Bank is a community banking organization dedicated to providing quality financial and banking services. Landmark National Bank has 29 locations in 23 communities across Kansas: Manhattan (2), Auburn, Dodge City (2), Fort Scott (2), Garden City, Great Bend (2), Hoisington, Iola, Junction City, La Crosse, Lawrence (2), Lenexa, Louisburg, Mound City, Osage City, Osawatomie, Overland Park, Paola, Pittsburg, Prairie Village, Topeka (2), Wamego and Wellsville, Kansas. Visit www.banklandmark.com for more information.

    Contact:
    Mark A. Herpich
    Chief Financial Officer
    (785) 565-2000

    Special Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of Landmark. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of our management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should” or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this press release, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and Landmark undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events. A number of factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the following: (i) the strength of the local, national and international economies, including the effects of changing inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints on such economies; (ii) changes in state and federal laws, regulations and governmental policies concerning banking, securities, consumer protection, insurance, monetary, trade and tax matters, including changes in interpretation or prioritization; (iii) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of our assets; (iv) increased competition in the financial services sector and the inability to attract new customers, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and “fintech” companies; (v) timely development and acceptance of new products and services; (vi) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (vii) our risk management framework; (viii) interruptions in information technology and telecommunications systems and third-party services; (ix) changes and uncertainty in benchmark interest rates, including the timing of additional rate changes, if any, by the Federal Reserve; (x) the economic effects of severe weather, natural disasters, widespread disease or pandemics, or other external events; (xi) the loss of key executives or employees; (xii) changes in consumer spending; (xiii) integration of acquired businesses; (xiv) unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation; (xv) changes in accounting policies and practices, such as the implementation of the current expected credit losses accounting standard; (xvi) the economic impact of past and any future terrorist attacks, acts of war, including the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the conflict in Ukraine, or threats thereof, and the response of the United States to any such threats and attacks; (xvii) the ability to manage credit risk, forecast loan losses and maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses; (xviii) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio; (xix) concentrations within our loan portfolio, large loans to certain borrowers, and large deposits from certain clients; (xx) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xxi) the level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets; (xxii) the ability to raise additional capital; (xxiii) cyber-attacks; (xxiv) declines in real estate values; (xxv) the effects of fraud on the part of our employees, customers, vendors or counterparties; and (xxvi) any other risks described in the “Risk Factors” sections of reports filed by Landmark with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Additional information concerning Landmark and its business, including additional risk factors that could materially affect Landmark’s financial results, is included in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)

        December 31,     September 30,     June 30,     March 31,     December 31,  
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024     2024     2024     2024     2023  
    Assets                                        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 20,275     $ 21,211     $ 23,889     $ 16,468     $ 27,101  
    Interest-bearing deposits at other banks     4,110       4,363       4,881       4,920       4,918  
    Investment securities available-for-sale, at fair value:                                        
    U.S. treasury securities     64,458       83,753       89,325       93,683       95,667  
    Municipal obligations, tax exempt     107,128       112,126       114,047       118,445       120,623  
    Municipal obligations, taxable     71,715       75,129       74,588       75,371       79,083  
    Agency mortgage-backed securities     129,211       140,004       142,499       149,777       157,396  
    Total investment securities available-for-sale     372,512       411,012       420,459       437,276       452,769  
    Investment securities held-to-maturity     3,672       3,643       3,613       3,584       3,555  
    Bank stocks, at cost     6,618       7,894       9,647       7,850       8,123  
    Loans:                                        
    One-to-four family residential real estate     352,209       344,380       332,090       312,833       302,544  
    Construction and land     25,328       23,454       30,480       24,823       21,090  
    Commercial real estate     345,159       324,016       318,850       323,397       320,962  
    Commercial     192,325       181,652       178,876       181,945       180,942  
    Agriculture     100,562       91,986       84,523       86,808       89,680  
    Municipal     7,091       7,098       6,556       5,690       4,507  
    Consumer     29,679       29,263       29,200       28,544       28,931  
    Total gross loans     1,052,353       1,001,849       980,575       964,040       948,656  
    Net deferred loan (fees) costs and loans in process     (307 )     (63 )     (583 )     (578 )     (429 )
    Allowance for credit losses     (12,825 )     (11,544 )     (10,903 )     (10,851 )     (10,608 )
    Loans, net     1,039,221       990,242       969,089       952,611       937,619  
    Loans held for sale, at fair value     3,420       3,250       2,513       2,697       853  
    Bank owned life insurance     39,056       39,176       38,826       38,578       38,333  
    Premises and equipment, net     20,220       20,976       20,986       20,696       19,709  
    Goodwill     32,377       32,377       32,377       32,377       32,377  
    Other intangible assets, net     2,578       2,729       2,900       3,071       3,241  
    Mortgage servicing rights     3,061       3,041       2,997       2,977       3,158  
    Real estate owned, net     167       428       428       428       928  
    Other assets     26,855       23,309       28,149       29,684       28,988  
    Total assets   $ 1,574,142     $ 1,563,651     $ 1,560,754     $ 1,553,217     $ 1,561,672  
                                             
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                                        
    Liabilities:                                        
    Deposits:                                        
    Non-interest-bearing demand     351,595       360,188       360,631       364,386       367,103  
    Money market and checking     636,963       565,629       546,385       583,315       613,613  
    Savings     145,514       145,825       150,996       154,000       152,381  
    Certificates of deposit     194,694       203,860       192,470       191,823       183,154  
    Total deposits     1,328,766       1,275,502       1,250,482       1,293,524       1,316,251  
    FHLB and other borrowings     53,046       92,050       131,330       74,716       64,662  
    Subordinated debentures     21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651  
    Repurchase agreements     13,808       9,528       8,745       15,895       12,714  
    Accrued interest and other liabilities     20,656       25,229       20,292       20,760       19,480  
    Total liabilities     1,437,927       1,423,960       1,432,500       1,426,546       1,434,758  
    Stockholders’ equity:                                        
    Common stock     58       55       55       55       55  
    Additional paid-in capital     95,051       89,532       89,469       89,364       89,208  
    Retained earnings     56,934       60,549       57,774       55,912       54,282  
    Treasury stock, at cost     –       (396 )     (330 )     (249 )     (75 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (15,828 )     (10,049 )     (18,714 )     (18,411 )     (16,556 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     136,215       139,691       128,254       126,671       126,914  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 1,574,142     $ 1,563,651     $ 1,560,754     $ 1,553,217     $ 1,561,672  


    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited)

        Three months ended,     Year ended,  
        December 31,     September 30,     December 31,     December 31,     December 31,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Interest income:                                        
    Loans   $ 15,955     $ 15,933     $ 14,223     $ 61,400     $ 51,753  
    Investment securities:                                        
    Taxable     2,210       2,301       2,453       9,298       9,594  
    Tax-exempt     738       747       761       3,008       3,094  
    Interest-bearing deposits at banks     49       41       49       193       242  
    Total interest income     18,952       19,022       17,486       73,899       64,683  
    Interest expense:                                        
    Deposits     5,350       5,830       4,879       22,310       15,254  
    FHLB and other borrowings     737       1,100       1,203       3,886       4,048  
    Subordinated debentures     389       416       422       1,635       1,590  
    Repurchase agreements     77       72       96       344       499  
    Total interest expense     6,553       7,418       6,600       28,175       21,391  
    Net interest income     12,399       11,604       10,886       45,724       43,292  
    Provision for credit losses     1,500       500       50       2,300       349  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     10,899       11,104       10,836       43,424       42,943  
    Non-interest income:                                        
    Fees and service charges     2,710       2,880       2,763       10,742       10,220  
    Gains on sales of loans, net     522       704       255       2,386       2,269  
    Bank owned life insurance     976       254       242       1,723       913  
    Losses on sales of investment securities, net     (1,031 )     –       (1,246 )     (1,031 )     (1,246 )
    Other     194       415       240       924       1,074  
    Total non-interest income     3,371       4,253       2,254       14,744       13,230  
    Non-interest expense:                                        
    Compensation and benefits     6,264       5,803       5,756       23,103       22,681  
    Occupancy and equipment     1,550       1,429       1,429       5,663       5,565  
    Data processing     452       464       462       1,889       1,940  
    Amortization of mortgage servicing rights and other intangibles     240       256       437       1,164       1,844  
    Professional fees     1,043       573       730       2,912       2,452  
    Valuation allowance on real estate held for sale     –       –       –       1,108       –  
    Other     2,325       2,034       1,748       8,240       7,501  
    Total non-interest expense     11,874       10,559       10,562       44,079       41,983  
    Earnings before income taxes     2,396       4,798       2,528       14,089       14,190  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (886 )     867       (111 )     1,086       1,954  
    Net earnings   $ 3,282     $ 3,931     $ 2,639     $ 13,003     $ 12,236  
                                             
    Net earnings per share (1)                                        
    Basic   $ 0.57     $ 0.68     $ 0.46     $ 2.26     $ 2.13  
    Diluted     0.57       0.68       0.46       2.26       2.13  
    Dividends per share (1)     0.20       0.20       0.19       0.80       0.76  
    Shares outstanding at end of period (1)     5,775,198       5,776,282       5,751,475       5,775,198       5,751,475  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic (1)     5,775,227       5,765,348       5,755,175       5,758,056       5,751,585  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted (1)     5,789,764       5,770,514       5,755,175       5,764,282       5,754,840  
                                             
    Tax equivalent net interest income   $ 12,574     $ 11,777     $ 11,017     $ 46,428     $ 44,040  
    (1 ) Share and per share values at or for the periods ended September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2024 have been adjusted to give effect to the 5% stock dividend paid during December 2024.
         

    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Select Ratios and Other Data (unaudited)

        As of or for the three months ended,     As of or for the year ended,  
        December 31,     September 30,     December 31,     December 31,     December 31,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Performance ratios:                                        
    Return on average assets (1)     0.83 %     1.01 %     0.67 %     0.83 %     0.80 %
    Return on average equity (1)     9.54 %     11.95 %     9.39 %     10.01 %     10.70 %
    Net interest margin (1)(2)     3.51 %     3.30 %     3.11 %     3.28 %     3.17 %
    Effective tax rate     -37.0 %     18.1 %     -4.4 %     7.7 %     13.8 %
    Efficiency ratio (3)     70.0 %     66.5 %     71.9 %     69.1 %     71.2 %
    Non-interest income to total income (3)     25.9 %     25.5 %     24.3 %     25.3 %     25.1 %
                                             
    Average balances:                                        
    Investment securities   $ 409,648     $ 428,301     $ 463,763     $ 432,928     $ 486,268  
    Loans     1,010,153       985,659       934,333       974,293       891,487  
    Assets     1,568,821       1,562,482       1,555,742       1,558,236       1,535,694  
    Interest-bearing deposits     944,969       936,218       910,610       938,223       892,373  
    FHLB and other borrowings     57,507       77,958       84,408       70,226       74,210  
    Subordinated debentures     21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651  
    Repurchase agreements     12,212       10,774       13,785       12,216       18,361  
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 136,933     $ 132,271     $ 111,560     $ 129,944     $ 114,339  
                                             
    Average tax equivalent yield/cost (1):                                        
    Investment securities     3.03 %     2.99 %     2.86 %     3.00 %     2.76 %
    Loans     6.28 %     6.43 %     6.04 %     6.30 %     5.81 %
    Total interest-bearing assets     5.34 %     5.38 %     4.97 %     5.28 %     4.71 %
    Interest-bearing deposits     2.25 %     2.48 %     2.13 %     2.38 %     1.71 %
    FHLB and other borrowings     5.10 %     5.61 %     5.65 %     5.53 %     5.45 %
    Subordinated debentures     7.15 %     7.64 %     7.73 %     7.55 %     7.34 %
    Repurchase agreements     2.51 %     2.66 %     2.79 %     2.82 %     2.72 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     2.52 %     2.82 %     2.54 %     2.70 %     2.13 %
                                             
    Capital ratios:                                        
    Equity to total assets     8.65 %     8.93 %     8.13 %                
    Tangible equity to tangible assets (3)     6.58 %     6.84 %     5.98 %                
    Book value per share   $ 23.59     $ 24.18     $ 22.07                  
    Tangible book value per share (3)   $ 17.53     $ 18.11     $ 15.87                  
                                             
    Rollforward of allowance for credit losses (loans):                                        
    Beginning balance   $ 11,544     $ 10,903     $ 10,970     $ 10,608     $ 8,791  
    Adoption of CECL     –       –       –       –       1,523  
    Charge-offs     (246 )     (153 )     (442 )     (659 )     (850 )
    Recoveries     27       144       80       476       894  
    Provision for credit losses for loans     1,500       650       –       2,400       250  
    Ending balance   $ 12,825     $ 11,544     $ 10,608     $ 12,825     $ 10,608  
                                             
    Allowance for unfunded loan commitments   $ 150     $ 300     $ 200                  
                                             
    Non-performing assets:                                        
    Non-accrual loans   $ 13,115     $ 13,415     $ 2,391                  
    Accruing loans over 90 days past due     –       –       –                  
    Real estate owned     167       428       928                  
    Total non-performing assets   $ 13,282     $ 13,843     $ 3,319                  
                                             
    Loans 30-89 days delinquent   $ 6,201     $ 7,301     $ 1,582                  
                                             
    Other ratios:                                        
    Loans to deposits     78.21 %     77.64 %     71.23 %                
    Loans 30-89 days delinquent and still accruing to gross loans outstanding     0.59 %     0.73 %     0.17 %                
    Total non-performing loans to gross loans outstanding     1.25 %     1.34 %     0.25 %                
    Total non-performing assets to total assets     0.84 %     0.89 %     0.21 %                
    Allowance for credit losses to gross loans outstanding     1.22 %     1.15 %     1.12 %                
    Allowance for credit losses to total non-performing loans     97.79 %     86.05 %     443.66 %                
    Net loan charge-offs to average loans (1)     0.09 %     0.00 %     0.15 %     0.03 %     -0.01 %
    (1 ) Information is annualized.
    (2 ) Net interest margin is presented on a fully tax equivalent basis, using a 21% federal tax rate.
    (3 ) Non-GAAP financial measures. See the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this press release for a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP equivalent.
         

    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Non-GAAP Finacials Measures (unaudited)

        As of or for the three months ended,     As of or for the year ended,  
        December 31,     September 30,     December 31,     December 31,     December 31,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
                                   
    Non-GAAP financial ratio reconciliation:                                        
    Total non-interest expense   $ 11,874     $ 10,559     $ 10,562     $ 44,079     $ 41,983  
    Less: foreclosure and real estate owned expense     (13 )     (23 )     (40 )     (47 )     (61 )
    Less: amortization of other intangibles     (151 )     (171 )     (174 )     (663 )     (765 )
    Less: valuation allowance on real estate held for sale     –       –       –       (1,108 )     –  
    Adjusted non-interest expense (A)     11,710       10,365       10,348       42,261       41,157  
                                             
    Net interest income (B)     12,399       11,604       10,886       45,724       43,292  
                                             
    Non-interest income     3,371       4,253       2,254       14,744       13,230  
    Less: losses on sales of investment securities, net     1,031       –       1,246       1,031       1,246  
    Less: gains on sales of premises and equipment and foreclosed assets     (62 )     (273 )     –       (326 )     (1 )
    Adjusted non-interest income (C)   $ 4,340     $ 3,980     $ 3,500     $ 15,449     $ 14,475  
                                             
    Efficiency ratio (A/(B+C))     70.0 %     66.5 %     71.9 %     69.1 %     71.2 %
    Non-interest income to total income (C/(B+C))     25.9 %     25.5 %     24.3 %     25.3 %     25.1 %
                                             
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 136,215     $ 139,691     $ 126,914                  
    Less: goodwill and other intangible assets     (34,955 )     (35,106 )     (35,618 )                
    Tangible equity (D)   $ 101,260     $ 104,585     $ 91,296                  
                                             
    Total assets   $ 1,574,142     $ 1,563,651     $ 1,561,672                  
    Less: goodwill and other intangible assets     (34,955 )     (35,106 )     (35,618 )                
    Tangible assets (E)   $ 1,539,187     $ 1,528,545     $ 1,526,054                  
                                             
    Tangible equity to tangible assets (D/E)     6.58 %     6.84 %     5.98 %                
                                             
    Shares outstanding at end of period (F)     5,775,198       5,776,282       5,751,475                  
                                             
    Tangible book value per share (D/F)   $ 17.53     $ 18.11     $ 15.87                  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: K&F Growth Acquisition Corp. II Announces the Pricing of $250,000,000 Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Each Unit Includes One Class A Ordinary Share and
    One Share Right to Receive 1/15th of a Class A Ordinary Share

    New York, NY, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — K&F Growth Acquisition Corp. II (the “Company”) announced today the pricing of its initial public offering of 25,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) and begin trading tomorrow, February 5, 2025, under the ticker symbol “KFIIU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one right (the “Share Right”) to receive one fifteenth (1/15) of one Class A ordinary share upon the consummation of an initial business combination.  There are no warrants issued publicly or privately in connection with this offering. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and Share Rights are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “KFII” and “KFIIR,” respectively. The offering is expected to close on February 6, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,750,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

    The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution but is focused on acquiring a compelling business in the experiential entertainment industry underpinned by strong secular growth, a skilled management team, and that is competitively positioned and capitalized to grow through organic and M&A-driven opportunities.

    The Company’s management team is led by Edward King, its Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chairman, and Daniel Fetters, its Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Co-Chairman. In addition, the Board includes James J. Murren, Joyce Arpin and Geoff Freeman.

    BTIG, LLC is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

    The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from BTIG, LLC, Attention: 65 East 55th Street, New York, New York 10022, or by email at ProspectusDelivery@btig.com.

    A registration statement relating to the securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and became effective on February 4, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the proposed initial public offering and search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all, or that the net proceeds will be used as indicated.

    Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Company Contact:

    K&F Growth Acquisition Corp. II
    1219 Morningside Drive, Suite 110
    Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
    www.kfgrowthcapital.com
    email: contact@kfgrowth.com
    Attention: Daniel Fetters, Co-CEO
    (310) 545-9265

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: It’s the most American of sports, so why is the NFL looking to Melbourne for international games?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Harcourt, Industry Professor and Chief Economist, University of Technology Sydney

    Melbourne’s status as the sporting capital of Australia is well-established: the Victorian city hosts annual events such as the Australian Open tennis tournament, the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup horseracing carnival, Boxing Day cricket Test and more.

    Now the United States’ National Football League (NFL) is set to join the party.

    In May last year, the NFL earmarked Australia as a future host for an international game.

    Now it has been reported the NFL is set to lock-in three regular season games in Melbourne at the MCG, starting in October 2026, just after the Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final.

    The teams set to feature in the first game are 2022 Super Bowl winners the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles will play in next week’s Super Bowl and feature an Australian, Jordan Mailata, on their team.

    The Rams and the Eagles both have international marketing rights to Australia – giving the clubs an opportunity to build brand awareness and fandom beyond the US through fan engagement, events and commercial opportunities.

    What’s in it for Victoria?

    The NFL contests would pour millions of dollars into the Victorian economy; each team would travel with hundreds of staff, while thousands of fans would likely travel from interstate and overseas.

    The Victorian government has not revealed any revenue estimates but last year’s Super Bowl week in Las Vegas generated more than $US1 billion ($A1.61 billion) in economic impact.

    Given the NFL’s love of razzmatazz, it would likely host a week-long procession of activities and fan zones across the city before almost certainly filling the MCG with 100,000 spectators.

    However, the choice of the MCG as a venue was not without controversy.

    The MCG boasts the biggest capacity of any stadium in Australia, but it is an oval shape, not rectangular, which makes the viewing experience more difficult when it hosts sports such as soccer, rugby – or NFL.

    Critics have suggested Accor Stadium in Sydney’s west or Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane (both rectangular venues) would be better for these games.

    What’s in it for the NFL?

    The NFL has broadened its international presence during the past decade or so, and now hosts eight games internationally each season.

    But why did NFL decide on Australia to join the likes of England, Germany, Spain, Brazil and Mexico?

    It chose places with strong sports consumer marketplaces, where streaming is popular and destinations where US fans are likely to travel to.

    Australia, while not as popular as in the days of Paul Hogan, is still a popular destination for many Americans, especially those who like sports.

    American football is far from a dominant sports code in Australia but is still a significant global market for the NFL, with an estimated fan base of more than six million supporters across the country.

    But principally, it’s about the money.

    The NFL’s media broadcast deal is one of, if not the, most lucrative in world sports: the TV and streaming media rights are said to be worth more than $US100 billion ($A161 billion).

    Analysts estimate the NFL’s international games will collectively add $US1 billion ($A1.61 billion) to the league’s TV rights.

    This has helped the NFL build a huge global audience, which Commissioner Roger Goodell has said is a key strategy:

    The media platforms are essential – we want to reach the most people we can through our media partners, because that’s how most people experience football. But when we bring games (to international markets), it is […] the spark that lights the flame. Playing the games is a big part of making our game global.

    The NFL is also looking to Australia for future athletic talent.

    In recent years, NFL and college football teams have regularly recruited Australian athletes as punters (specialist kickers), who grew up kicking balls and can transfer their skills to the American game.

    The NFL also recently set up a talent academy on the Gold Coast to encourage talented youngsters from Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific to pursue their NFL dream.

    What fans can expect

    Melbourne is not Las Vegas, but even so, if confirmed, the games will deliver some old-fashioned American showbiz to the state.

    The MCG will likely be packed with fans (both hardcore and casual) for the contest, and of course the sport’s famous half-time shows.

    And then there’s the athletic brilliance of the players: the game is considered by some to be as intellectual as chess but with enormous physical prowess required. The chance to see these massive athletes up close will no doubt be a huge drawcard.

    NFL fans in Australia – and very likely New Zealand, the Pacific and even further abroad – will no doubt be waiting with bated breath for the league to confirm the games, and then try to find a way to secure sought-after tickets.

    Tim Harcourt supports both the Green Bay Packers to keep his Wisconsin in laws happy and the Minnesota Vikings as he once lived in Minneapolis.

    – ref. It’s the most American of sports, so why is the NFL looking to Melbourne for international games? – https://theconversation.com/its-the-most-american-of-sports-so-why-is-the-nfl-looking-to-melbourne-for-international-games-248870

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast Exposes Outrageous USAID and State Department Grants

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast released the following video exposing radical, far-left grants issued by the State Department and United States Agency for International Development under the Biden administration.

    WATCH HERE

    Democrats and unaccountable bureaucrats don’t want Americans to know how their hard-earned tax dollars are being wasted abroad. Chairman Mast is here to set the record straight.

    Several egregious examples include:

    $15 million for condoms to the Taliban through USAID.

    $446,700 to promote the expansion of atheism in Nepal through the State Department.

    $1 million to boost French-speaking LGBTQ groups in West and Central Africa through the State Department.

    $14 million in cash vouchers for migrants at the southern border through the State Department.

    $20,600 for a drag show in Ecuador through the State Department.

    $47,020 for a transgender opera in Colombia through the State Department.

    $32,000 for an LGBTQ-centered comic book in Peru through the State Department.

    $55,750 for a climate change presentation warning about the impact of climate change in Argentina to be led by female and LGBT journalists through the StateDepartment.

    $3,315,446 for “being LGBTQ in the Caribbean” through USAID.

    $7,071.58 for a BIPOC speaker series in Canada through the State Department.

    $80,000 for an LGBTQ community center in Bratislava, Slovakia through the State Department.

    $3.2 million to help Tunisian migrants readjust to life in Tunisia after deportation through the State Department.

    $16,500 to foster a “united and equal queer-feminist discourse in Albanian society” through the State Department.

    $10,000 to pressure Lithuanian corporations to promote “DEI values” through the State Department.

    $8,000 to promote DEI among LGBTQ groups in Cyprus through the State Department.

    $1.5 million to promote job opportunities for LGBTQ individuals in Serbia through USAID.

    $70,884 to create a U.S.-Irish musical to promote DEI in Ireland through the State Department.

    $39,652 to host seminars at the Edinburgh International Book Festival on gender identity and racial equality through the State Department.

    $2.5 million to build electric vehicle charging stations in Vietnam’s largest cities through USAID.

    $425,622 to help Indonesian coffee companies become more climate and gender friendly through USAID.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Avoiding Burnout in Legal Practice: How Practice AI Lightens the Load for Attorneys

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Burnout has become a significant challenge in the legal industry, particularly for personal injury attorneys managing demanding caseloads. Practice AI is tackling this issue head-on with its cutting-edge solutions, AI Demands and AI Doc Reader, designed to streamline workflows, reduce repetitive tasks, and help attorneys focus on higher-value legal work.

    The Growing Challenge of Burnout in Law

    The legal profession is known for its high-stress levels, long hours, and intense pressure to deliver results. Attorneys often find themselves buried in paperwork, from drafting demand letters to reviewing complex legal and medical documents. This burden can lead to fatigue, decreased efficiency, and ultimately burnout.

    “With the increasing complexity of legal work, it’s critical to equip attorneys with tools that reduce stress and improve efficiency,” said Hamid Kohan, CEO of Practice AI. “Our goal is to empower lawyers with AI-driven solutions that handle the heavy lifting, allowing them to focus on what they do best: Advocating for their clients.”

    How Practice AI Reduces Workload and Enhances Productivity

    Practice AI provides two essential tools that transform the way attorneys handle their most time-consuming tasks:

    • AI Demands : Automates the drafting of personal injury demand letters, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and customization in a fraction of the time.
    • AI Doc Reader : Extracts critical information from legal and medical records, summarizing key details for faster case analysis and decision-making.

    The Impact of AI on Legal Workflows

    Legal professionals can now generate demand letters in minutes instead of hours, significantly cutting down on administrative work and freeing up time for strategic case management. Document review, which traditionally consumes valuable hours, is streamlined through AI Doc Reader, allowing attorneys to access relevant information quickly and efficiently.

    A Smarter Approach to Legal Work

    Rather than replacing attorneys, Practice AI ensures that technology enhances their capabilities. “AI should be seen as an assistant, not a replacement,” Kohan emphasized. “By integrating AI, we’re reducing the mental load of repetitive tasks, enabling attorneys to maintain quality work while improving their overall well-being.”

    Key Benefits for Attorneys

    • Time-Saving Automation: Attorneys can focus on case strategy and client relationships instead of routine paperwork.
    • Enhanced Accuracy and Compliance: AI ensures that legal and medical details are correctly incorporated into demand letters and case summaries.
    • Reduced Workload, Reduced Burnout: With less administrative burden, attorneys experience lower stress and improved work-life balance.

    Experience Demands AI Today

    Practice AI invites legal professionals to experience the efficiency and relief our AI solutions bring to daily practice.

    How to Get Started

    1. Visit the Platform: Head to mylawfirm.ai to sign up—NO CREDIT CARD REQUIRED.
    2. Create Your Account: Create a user and your organization by following the steps.
    3. Access the Trial: Enjoy the benefits of the trial mode by generating your first demand at no extra fees.
    4. Subscribe: By adding your credit card, you can subscribe to Demands and generate your demand letters. We offer a transparent pricing structure.

    This simple process ensures that attorneys can quickly integrate Demands into their practices.

    About Law Practice AI

    Practice AI leads the way in developing AI-powered solutions tailored for legal and medical professionals. With products like AI Demands and AI Doc Reader, the company focuses on streamlining workflows, enhancing accuracy, and delivering secure, compliant tools that improve outcomes for professionals and their clients.

    For more information about Practice AI’s tools, visit Practice AI or contact us below.

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    Practice AI
    Address: 21731 Ventura Blvd. #175, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
    Phone: (424) 476-5858
    Email: sales@mylawfirm.ai

    Visit us on social media:
    Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | X.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Keep AM Radio in New Vehicles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) to reintroduce the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. The legislation would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to require automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their new vehicles at no additional charge.

    “AM radio is the backbone of our emergency alert system, especially for tens of millions of Americans in rural areas. It’s been a part of our daily commutes and road trips for decades. Iowans rely on AM radio to catch up on local news, weather and commodity and livestock markets, as well as to hear competing viewpoints about the important issues of the day. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act will protect this critical resource, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation,” Grassley said.

    “During weather disasters or power outages, AM radio is consistently the most reliable form of communication and is critical to keep millions of Texans safe. AM radio has long been a haven for people to express differing viewpoints, allowing free speech and our robust democratic process to flourish for decades. I am honored to once again partner with Sen. Markey on this bipartisan legislation on behalf of our constituents who depend on AM radio and public airwaves for access to news, music, talk, and emergency alerts,” Cruz said.

    “As we witness more tragic climate change-induced disasters like the wildfires in Los Angeles, broadcast AM radio continues to be a critical tool for communication. AM radio is a lifeline for people across the country for news, sports, and especially emergency information,” Markey said. “Tens of millions of listeners across the country have made clear that they want AM radio to remain in their vehicles. Our AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act heeds their words and ensures that this essential tool doesn’t get lost on the dial.”

    Additional cosponsors are Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.),    Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jim Justice (R-W.V.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), John Barrasso (R-Wy.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and John Hoeven (R-N.D.).

    Read the bill text HERE.

    Background:

    Grassley and his colleagues previously introduced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act during the 118th Congress. The legislation passed the Senate Commerce Committee in July 2023 and the House Energy and Commerce Committee in September 2024.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sanctuary Pictures Unveils Punk-Horror Feature Penny Lane Is Dead

    Source: Australia Government Statements 4

    04 02 2025 – Media release

    Writer/Director of Penny Lane Is Dead, Mia’Kate Russell
    Sanctuary Pictures and Screen Australia are thrilled to announce Penny Lane Is Dead, an electrifying Australian punk-horror written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Mia’Kate Russell (Maggie May, Liz Drives).
    Set to launch at the European Film Market (EFM) in two weeks, the film is a high-energy blend of horror, action, and suspense, infused with the rebellious spirit of the 1980s.
    Supported by Screen Australia, VicScreen, and ANZ distributor Umbrella Entertainment, Penny Lane Is Dead is produced by Julie Ryan (Late Night with the Devil), Ari Harrison (Talk to Me), and Andre Lima. Set during a scorching Australian summer in 1986, the film follows three teenage best friends whose celebratory night at a beach house spirals into a blood-soaked battle for survival after a prank takes a deadly turn.
    “This film is a rollercoaster ride of love and chaos set against the rebellious spirit of the 1980s,” said writer-director Mia’Kate Russell. “I’m excited to take audiences on this wild, unexpected journey with these girls and their crazy night at the beach.”
    Ari Harrison, Director and Owner of Sanctuary Pictures, said “Mia’Kate infuses Penny Lane Is Dead with her unmistakable storytelling style, crafting a film that crackles with razor-sharp tension, raw emotion, and unflinching violence. This is a bold, relentless ride that will leave audiences breathless.”
    Screen Australia’s Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough said, “Penny Lane Is Dead is a gripping feature debut from Sanctuary Pictures, poised to launch Mia’Kate onto the global stage. With an exceptional creative team and riveting storytelling, this film has the potential to engage audiences both locally and internationally. Prepare to be taken on a high-octane ride of feminist-lensed terror.”
    Currently in casting, Penny Lane Is Dead is set to begin production in Q2 2025.
    Production credit: A Sanctuary Pictures and Buffalo Media production, Penny Lane Is Dead is financed with major production investment from Screen Australia in association with VicScreen. Local distribution by Umbrella Entertainment, with international sales handled by Upgrade. The film was developed with the assistance of the South Australian Film Corporation and Umbrella Entertainment.
    Media Contact:
    Jasmin McSweeney | Head of Sales & Acquisitions (NZ), Umbrella Entertainment
    [email protected]
    Media enquiries
    Maddie Walsh | Publicist
    + 61 2 8113 5915  | [email protected]
    Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu)
    + 61 428 767 836  | [email protected]
    All other general/non-media enquiries
    Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800  |  Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Veea to Ring the Nasdaq Opening Bell on February 5, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Veea, Inc. (NASDAQ: VEEA), a pioneering technology company specializing in edge computing and AI with smart connectivity solutions, today announced that it will ring the Opening Bell at the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square, New York City on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

    Allen Salmasi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, will be joined by members of Veea’s board of directors, management team, SPAC sponsor Plum Acquisition Corp. I, and advisors.

    “We are honored to commemorate Veea’s public listing on Nasdaq’s global stage,” said Mr. Salmasi. “This event is a testament to the dedication of our team in developing and delivering innovative solutions that reshape how data is processed, secured, and leveraged for a smarter, more connected future.”

    Founded in 2014, Veea develops fully integrated, scalable, and turnkey wireless communication solutions that make living and working at edge – where people, places, and things connect to the network – simpler and more secure.

    The live broadcast of the Nasdaq Opening Bell ceremony will begin at 9:15 a.m. Eastern Time and will available at: https://www.nasdaq.com/marketsite/bell-ringing-ceremony

    About Veea
    Veea Inc. (NASDAQ: VEEA) was formed in 2014 and is headquartered in New York City with a rich history of major innovations in the development of advanced networking, wireless and computing technologies. Veea makes living and working at the edge simpler and more secure. Veea has unified multi-tenant computing, multiaccess multiprotocol communications, edge storage and cybersecurity solutions through fully integrated cloud- and edge-managed products. Veea’s fully integrated turnkey solution offers end-to-end cloud management of devices, applications and services with Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), optionally with a highly simplified plug and play 5G-based Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) offering. Veea Edge Platform™ enables direct connections from the wide area optical fiber, cellular and satellite networks to devices on the local area networks created by a VeeaHub® mesh cluster over network-managed Wi-Fi and IoT devices – a unique patented capability called Multiprotocol Private Network Slicing (MPNS) for ISPs to offer subscription-based services for one or a group of endpoints. Veea Developer Portal and development tools provide for rapid development of edge applications including federated learning with pre-trained models for inferencing to cost-effectively enable Edge AI for most enterprise use cases.

    Veea was recognized in 2023 by Gartner as a Leading Smart Edge Platform for the innovativeness and capabilities of our Veea Edge Platform™ and a Cool Vendor in Edge Computing in 2021. Veea was named in Market Reports World’s research report published in October 2023 as one of the top 10 Edge AI solution providers alongside IBM, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services among others. For more information about Veea and its product offerings, visit veea.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions.

    Examples of forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s upcoming technology deployments, partnerships, and anticipated commencement dates. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of Veea’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied upon by any investors as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. If any of these risks materialize or the parties’ assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release. There may be additional risks that Veea presently knows or currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Veea assumes no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The Equity Group

    Devin Sullivan
    Managing Director
    dsullivan@equityny.com

    Conor Rodriguez
    Associate
    crodriguez@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crescent Capital BDC, Inc. Schedules Earnings Release and Conference Call to Discuss its Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Crescent Capital BDC, Inc. (“Crescent BDC”) (NASDAQ: CCAP) today announced it will release its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 after market close. Crescent BDC invites all interested persons to attend its webcast/conference call on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024 financial results.

    Conference Call Information:

    The conference call will be broadcast live at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the Investor Relations section of Crescent BDC’s website at www.crescentbdc.com. Please visit the website to test your connection before the webcast.

    Participants are also invited to access the conference call by dialing the following number:

    Toll Free: (800) 715-9871
    Conference ID: 1217499

    All callers will need to reference the Conference ID once connected with the operator.

    Replay Information:

    A replay of the earnings call will be available via a webcast link located on the Investor Relations section of Crescent BDC’s website.

    About Crescent BDC

    Crescent BDC is a business development company that seeks to maximize the total return of its stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation by providing capital solutions to middle market companies with sound business fundamentals and strong growth prospects. Crescent BDC utilizes the extensive experience, origination capabilities and disciplined investment process of Crescent Capital Group LP (“Crescent”). Crescent BDC is externally managed by Crescent Cap Advisors, LLC, a subsidiary of Crescent. Crescent BDC has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. For more information about Crescent BDC, visit www.crescentbdc.com. However, the contents of such website are not and should not be deemed to be incorporated by reference herein.

    About Crescent Capital Group LP

    Crescent is a global credit investment manager with $43 billion of assets under management. For over 30 years, the firm has focused on below investment grade credit through strategies that invest in marketable and privately originated debt securities including senior bank loans, high yield bonds, as well as private senior, unitranche and junior debt securities. Crescent is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in New York, Boston, Chicago and London with more than 225 employees globally. Crescent is a part of SLC Management, the institutional alternatives and traditional asset management business of Sun Life. For more information about Crescent, visit www.crescentcap.com. However, the contents of such website are not and should not be deemed to be incorporated by reference herein.

    Contact:

    Dan McMahon
    daniel.mcmahon@crescentcap.com
    212-364-0149

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements included herein may constitute “forward-looking statements,” which relate to future events or our future performance or financial condition. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, condition or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results and conditions may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Crescent BDC undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements made herein.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Updated Time: HP Inc. to Announce First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Earnings on Feb 27, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) will present a live audio webcast of a conference call to review financial results for the first fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2025 on Thursday, Feb 27, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. ET / 2:30 p.m. PT.

    The webcast will be available at www.hp.com/investor/2025Q1Webcast.

    A replay of the audio webcast will be available at the same website shortly after the call and will remain available for approximately one year.

    About HP Inc.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Caithness Area Place Planning community event

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Several public drop-in sessions are being held across Caithness during February with displays of options for the future masterplanning for the area.  Council officers will be on hand to explain the proposals and answer any questions.  

    The content of each session will vary slightly, with a mix of displays focussing on the draft Caithness Area Place Plan, the Highland Investment Plan, the Highland Local Development Plan and the Visitor Levy consultation.

    Communities and Place Committee Chair, Cllr Graham MacKenzie said: “These collaborative community events are an excellent opportunity for the public to come along and find out more about the future masterplanning for the area and ask questions and suggest ideas. It also opens the opportunity to connect and discuss further partnership working within our communities.”

    Plans on display and for discussion are:

    Highland Investment Plan – In May 2024 Highland Council approved the £2.1 billion twenty-year Highland Investment Plan.  This is a highly significant, long term infrastructure investment programme for the Highland area and is a radical solution to the significant challenges the Council faces in reducing, maintaining, and renewing our asset base, and is closely linked to plans to modernise Council service delivery. 

    A key element of this approach will be to establish Community Points of Delivery which will be places where a wide range of Council services, including education, can be delivered alongside other partner and community services as part of a future integrated operating model for partnership working.

    Thurso has been selected as one of the priority locations to develop a local place-based masterplan and this event will provide an opportunity to view the work that has been carried out to date and to gather feedback from members of the community. Further engagement with stakeholders will take place thereafter, and prior to reporting on the outcomes at a Council meeting in June.

    Highland Local Development Plan (HLDP) – The Highland Council is gathering evidence including the views of the public and local organisations to help formulate a new, statutory land use plan for Highland. This Plan will shape future planning application and other building investment decisions. The events will display and present the information we think is relevant to the future planning of Thurso, Wick, nearby large villages and the wider Caithness area but we want your views on what else we should consider. Planning staff will be available in Wick and Thurso to discuss the Plan and explain how to find out more and make comment. A consultation launched on 31 January on evidence, runs to 12 noon on 31 March 2025; a call for development sites launched the same day runs until 12 noon on 02 May 2025. For those that can’t make the events then more details of the Plan and access to the current consultation are available here 

    Caithness Area Place Plan (APP) – drafts of the Caithness Area Place Plan will be available.  This plan will capture the priorities for the area set out in other plans and those identified through previous community engagement sessions.  The APP provides the basis for place-centred service delivery and will act as a tool for funders, guiding investment into the area. 

    Visitor Levy – a public consultation is currently underway on the proposal to implement a Visitor Levy in Highland Visitor Levy Consultation | Visitor Levy | The Highland Council and officers will be present at the sessions in Wick and Thurso to informally answer any questions about the proposals and the consultation process.

    The drop-in sessions are as follows:

    Wednesday 12 Feb 2025 – Public Engagement Drop In – Pulteney Centre, Wick -1000-1530

    Tues 18 February 2025 – Public Engagement Drop In – Thurso Library – 1500-1930

    Weds 26 February 2025 – Public Engagement Workshop – Lybster Community Hall – 1400-1700

    For those who can’t attend any of the sessions, there will also be an on-line evening event on Wednesday 19 February 2025 –  to book a place please click here

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –