NewzIntel.com

Category: Sport

  • MIL-OSI China: China, S. Korea to vie for women’s recurve team gold at archery World Cup

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Top two seeds South Korea and China have booked their places in the women’s recurve team gold medal match at the 2025 Archery World Cup after a commanding day in Thursday’s elimination rounds.

    South Korea, who skipped the season-opening World Cup in Florida to prioritize their national trials, made a strong return to international competition. Olympic champion Lim Si-hyeon marked her comeback in style, topping the individual qualification round on Wednesday. On Thursday, she teamed up with An San and Kang Chae-young to edge out a resilient Turkey side 5-4 in a tense quarterfinal match affected by sporadic winds. The trio then eased past Chinese Taipei 5-1 to secure their place in the final. Chinese Taipei went on to claim bronze.

    China’s lineup – Li Jiaman, Zhu Jingyi and Huang Yuwei – entered the event fresh from their triumph in Florida. Competing on home soil at the Yuanshen Sports Center, they rallied to defeat Italy 5-4 in the quarterfinals, before dominating Mexico 6-0 to reach the title match.

    “The result was satisfying overall,” said 20-year-old Huang, who made her team debut last month. “We faced some challenges and made mistakes, but the key was that we adjusted quickly. That’s something we’ll need to keep doing in future matches.”

    Looking ahead to the final, 18-year-old Zhu remained composed yet confident. “South Korea is a strong team, but they’re not unbeatable. We’re not afraid – we have what it takes to beat them,” she said.

    Li, a member of the Chinese squad that lost to South Korea in the team final at the Paris Olympics, anticipated a high-caliber showdown while hoping for a different outcome this time.

    “We’ll treat them like any other opponent. If we keep shooting 10s, the pressure will be on them,” she said. “I hope they shoot well, because we want to win through our own strength.”

    In the men’s recurve team event, China exited in the quarterfinals with a 6-2 loss to South Korea, though not without putting up a fight. Wang Yan, Li Zhongyuan and Kao Wenchao took the opening set 57-55 against Olympic gold medalists Kim Woo-jin, Lee Woo-seok and Kim Je-deok. But despite loud support from the home crowd, the Chinese trio couldn’t sustain their momentum, as the South Koreans responded with scores of 58, 60 and 59 in the following sets.

    “I think we brought out the best in ourselves,” said Wang. “There’s a lot we can learn from South Korea – especially their ability to stay composed and consistent under pressure. We took two points off them this time; next time, it might be more. One day, we’ll beat them.”

    South Korea went on to defeat the United States 5-3 in the semifinals and will meet France in the gold medal match. The Americans bounced back to claim bronze with a 5-3 victory over India.

    The Shanghai World Cup continues Friday with the recurve individual and mixed team elimination rounds.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wirtz era looms as Bayern prepares to bid farewell to Muller

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A change of superstars appears to be on the horizon in Munich.

    As 2025 Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich prepare for Thomas Muller’s final home appearance against Borussia Monchengladbach, his record-setting 750th match, fans are not only anticipating an emotional send-off, but also the presentation of the league trophy.

    Hovering over the celebrations is the growing buzz around Florian Wirtz, the most sought-after player in German football. The Bayer Leverkusen star is reportedly poised to usher in a new era at Bayern, with the club prepared to invest up to 150 million euros to secure his services.

    Florian Wirtz (L) of Bayer 04 Leverkusen vies with Ozan Kabak of TSG Hoffenheim during the first division of Bundesliga match in Leverkusen, Germany, March 30, 2024. (Photo by Joachim Bywaletz/Xinhua)

    According to reports, Wirtz has informed Leverkusen and head coach Xabi Alonso of his intention to only leave for Bayern. Supervisory board member Uli Hoeneb has reportedly been involved in behind-the-scene negotiations for months, meeting several times with Wirtz’s father and agent, Hans-Joachim Wirtz.

    The tabloid Bild reported that the 22-year-old forward has made his decision. His recent comments only add fuel to the speculation.

    “It motivates me to leave my comfort zone,” Wirtz said. “I know locker rooms well enough to adapt anywhere.” The German international added that money has never been a motivating factor for him-only sporting ambitions. “When I was 16 and joined Leverkusen, my parents gave me just €150 per month from my salary because they didn’t want me spending too much.”

    He also praised his teammates from South America and Africa, noting their courage in leaving home to pursue their careers. “So far, I’ve always had everything and everyone close by,” he said.

    As Wirtz’s name dominates headlines, Bayern leadership is reportedly planning major staff changes and a tactical overhaul. A dual playmaker system featuring Wirtz and Jamal Musiala is said to be under consideration. To finance the transfer, Bayern could sell key players including Leroy Sane, Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, and Leon Goretzka.

    With two games left, Bayern has already scored 93 goals-putting the single-season record of 101 goals, set in 1971-72, within reach.

    Still, Muller’s farewell after 25 years at the club is expected to take center stage at Saturday’s match. The 131-cap German international could be the one to lift the trophy-normally the captain’s role-as goalkeeper Manuel Neuer remains sidelined and Joshua Kimmich would otherwise step in.

    Former coaches including Julian Nagelsmann, Jupp Heynckes, and Hansi Flick have all praised Muller as a club legend.

    “I’m not too emotional right now, but it’s getting closer,” said the 2014 World Cup champion and two-time UEFA Champions League winner with a wink.

    Even so, Muller seems to know the tears will come

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Climate – Students representing New Zealand at the ‘Olympics of science fairs’ forging pathway for international recognition – NIWA

    Source: NIWA

    Two students are on their way to the United States to represent New Zealand at the ‘Olympics’ of science fairs, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Columbus, Ohio, which starts this weekend. The two New Zealand students are hoping to stand out among the nearly 2,000 young scientists from 70 other countries to win a share of the US $9 million (NZ$15 million) in awards and scholarships.
    The last time a New Zealand student attended this event was in 2013 and it is only the second time that more than one student from New Zealand has taken part in the international event showcasing scientific inquiry, innovation and creativity.
    Wellington College Year 13 student Jesse Rumball-Smith and Wellington Girls’ College Year 11 student Isabelle Aduna were selected following success in last year’s Australian Science and Engineering Fair (AUSSEF), and are joining nine Australian students chosen from the 105 top science and engineering projects at last year’s event. As well as the opportunity to showcase school science projects on a global stage, the event is regarded as a platform for future leaders in innovation and real-world problem-solving.
    While NIWA promotes science careers through its sponsorship of regional science fairs throughout New Zealand, because there is currently no national event the top students from regional fairs had to take part in the Australian event to qualify for selection to the international science and engineering fair.
    Wellington College Year 13 student Jesse Rumball-Smith has developed a smartphone app to detect road risks and promote safer driving, reducing risky behaviour by 30 percent. The app incorporates state-of-the-art safety features, including recognising when the driver is fatigued.
    Jesse has been taking part in science fairs since Year 7, and in 2023 won the NIWA Wellington Regional Science Fair. After a lot of ‘searching, struggling and (persistently) emailing’, he represented New Zealand at the Taiwan International Science Fair. Last year he also presented his project at an international conference in Germany, and at AUSSEF he came third.
    He is hoping that his participation in the US will be inspiring for other students, and also that it will create an easier pathway for future students through a recognised National Science Fair in New Zealand. “This will be the second time in history that New Zealand has competed at the oldest, largest, and most prestigious international science fair – the first one-off event was more than a decade ago. For a country that wants to be a science-driven nation, we’re a bit late to the party! Hopefully Isabelle and I going will set the stage for this to change.”
    Wellington Girls’ College Year 11 student Isabelle Aduna also developed her Power-Up with Produce project from a real-world problem, exploring the use of fruit and vegetable waste as natural dyes for sustainable solar cells. The organic food waste is made into eco-friendly dye-sensitized solar cells. Last year Isabelle won the NIWA Wellington Regional Science Fair.
    Isabelle says going to ISEF will be a unique opportunity. “It is truly an honour and I feel proud and humbled at the same time to be representing New Zealand at ISEF. It will be a journey of many ‘firsts’ that I am looking forward to experiencing. I am most looking forward to being surrounded by diverse cultures. I can’t wait to participate and meet bright young people from across the world. This experience will allow me to connect with diverse perspectives, discuss groundbreaking research, and challenge my thinking. Ultimately, I hope to come away from ISEF inspired, not only with new ambitions for my own research, but with a developed appreciation for science’s role in our environment and society’s development. I hope that my participation inspires other young people to think beyond limitations and pursue a career in science and innovation.”
    She’s also hopeful that plans for New Zealand to have its own national science and engineering fair come to fruition, so top qualifiers from the NIWA regional science fairs can have the direct opportunity to be selected for the ISEF instead of having to go through the Australian event. “I hope that my participation inspires other young people to think beyond limitations and pursue a career in science and innovation.”
    The students are travelling with Amanda Hood, a science educator and NIWA Wellington Regional Science and Technology Fair Organising committee member, and are supported by Royal Society Te Apārangi and their communities. She says the funding will also assist the development of a National Science and Engineering Fair for New Zealand. “Currently we don’t have a national STEM fair in New Zealand, and there has been little opportunity for talented students to compete internationally. The participation of Isabelle and Jesse as New Zealand’s first team at the world’s most prestigious science fair could be a landmark event in showcasing our best and brightest on the global stage, following the footsteps of world-leading achievements of pioneers Ernest Rutherford, William Pickering, Maurice Wilkinson, Alan MacDiarmid, and Beatrice Tinsley.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Twenty episodes and counting: lava fountains continue in Halemaʻumaʻu

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch — Twenty episodes and counting: lava fountains continue in Halemaʻumaʻu

    On December 23, 2024, eruptive activity at Kīlauea’s summit began again with the first in what has become 20 discrete lava fountaining episodes. Many episodes have had dual fountains—two erupting at the same time—a rare occurrence at Kīlauea and worldwide. The most recent episode 20 concluded at 9:28 p.m. H.S.T. on May 6, 2025.

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. Today’s article is by HVO geologists Drew Downs and Natalia Deligne.

    Photo compilation of episodes 1–20 of the ongoing eruption at the summit of Kīlauea, including webcam imagery and photos taken by USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists on the ground and during helicopter overflights. In all photos except for episode 7, the south vent is on the left and the north vent is on the right. For the episode 7 photo, the north vent is in the center and the south vent is below it to the right.

    Sustained lava fountaining, sometimes to impressive heights, have awed the crowds that have flocked to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to view the episodes—along with those watching from home on two USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory livestreams (V1cam and V2cam). The duration of semi-regular lava fountaining has ranged from around 4.5 hours (episode 20) to as long as 8.5 days (episode 3). However, many (11 of the 20) of the fountaining periods have lasted less than 24 hours. Once sustained lava fountains begin, they usually reach heights of 100–350 ft (30–100 m) above the vents. The highest fountains yet measured during these episodes reached over 1,000 ft (300 m) during episodes 15 and 16 in March and April 2025.

    These lava fountains have fed lava flows, some more extensive than others, that have collectively continued to fill the crater formed during the 2018 summit collapse. In some places near the vents, the lava flows are nearly 200 ft (60 m) thick, and they have covered 816 acres (330 hectares).

    Repose intervals—or the pause times between episodes—have ranged from 16 hours to 12 days. Intermittent spattering and occasional lava flows have occurred between episodes, as happened twice during episode 18 when lava flows issued from the vents for a few hours, a few days prior to lava fountains commencing.

    These impressively high lava fountains have produced tephra (fragments of lava) and Pele’s hair (fibers of volcanic glass). The distribution of tephra is controlled by prevailing wind patterns, with fallout zones downwind of the vents. Trade winds blowing to the southwest are most common, and this has resulted in tephra accumulating in the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to thicknesses that can reach greater than 6.5 ft (2 m). During slack and Kona winds, tephra and Pele’s hair have fallen on the summit region around Volcano village, the Volcano Golf Course, and along Highway 11 near Nāmakanipaio campground.

    Almost all eruptive activity has been sourced from two vents at the base of the western wall of Halemaʻumaʻu crater within Kaluapele (the summit caldera). These are referred to as the north and south vents, and they have alternated in dominance during episodes. At times the south vent has generated spectacular lava fountains that have reached over 1,000 ft (300 m) tall, whereas the north vent has primarily exhibited low‑level spattering or lava ponding, but there have been reversals of this pattern. Since episode 14, gas pistoning—the rhythmic rise and fall of the lava column—has been observed within both vents prior to fountaining by hours to a full day, and it is usually visible in the V1cam livestream.

    Each episode of high lava fountaining coincides with the onset of sharp deflation at the summit. Pre-fountaining inflation at UWD and SDH tiltmeters, used to measure inflationary and deflationary signals near Uēkahuna and to the south of Kaluapele, gives way to rapid deflation. At the same time, seismic tremor increases rapidly as more fluid moves through the conduits to erupt from the vents. A rapid turnaround from deflation to inflation and drop in seismic tremor marks the end of an episode.

    These spectacular lava fountains have been easily visible from many of the publicly accessible overlooks within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Even so, hazards persist during volcanic activity for those visiting to enjoy the sights. Shifting winds blow around elevated concentrations of volcanic gases, particularly strong-smelling sulfur dioxide (SO2), and tephra and Pele’s hair that are mostly comprised of volcanic glass. The gases and small glassy particles can irritate respiratory systems, and Pele’s hair can form splinters under the skin.

    As the summit of Kīlauea continues its lava fountaining episodes, HVO will maintain its continuous monitoring and livestreaming to document the eruption’s evolution, inform hazard assessments, and apprise the public of ongoing volcanic activity.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.

    Episode 20 of the Kīlauea summit eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu crater ended on May 6 after 4.5 hours of fountaining reaching maximum heights of about 500 feet (150 meters) at the north vent. Strong glow has been visible in both the north and south vents and summit region inflation since the end of episode 20 suggests that another episode is possible. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. 

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    One earthquake was reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M3.6 earthquake 6 km (3 mi) WSW of Laupāhoehoe at 31 km (19 mi) depth on May 2 at 12:59 p.m. HST.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to India New Zealand Business Council

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Kia ora and good morning, everyone.

    This is a great time to hold a Summit focused on the India-New Zealand relationship. It comes seven weeks after I returned from India following one of New Zealand’s largest ever Prime Ministerial missions.

    I was joined by 40 business representatives, 15 community leaders, three Cabinet Ministers, four MPs, a Kapa Haka group, and a range of senior government officials all laser-focused on our relationship with India. 

    We visited New Delhi and Mumbai for a packed programme that covered every facet of our broad-based relationship with India – political connections, trade and economics, defence and security, people, culture and, of course, cricket. 

    As was the case on my previous visits to India when I was in the private sector with Unilever, I was struck by the remarkable energy, dynamism, and innovation that I encountered. 

    I concluded the mission more convinced than ever that India is a country of enormous consequence for New Zealand and for the world.

    So, I want to spend some time reflecting on the mission and talking about some of the outcomes in three key areas. First, economic opportunities; second, defence and security; and third, in terms of people and culture. 

    I then want to set out what I see as the next steps in the relationship.

    Economic opportunities

    First, I want to talk about the economic opportunities we saw in India, and what we are doing to capitalise on them. 

    I’m sure everyone here is familiar with India’s amazing growth story. The fastest GDP growth rate in the G20, with India on track to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next few years, and the Indian middle class now numbers 445 million. 

    When I met with Prime Minister Modi, I had a chance to discuss with him India’s extraordinary transformation. Over the past decade, 250 million Indians have been lifted out of poverty; the number of airports in India has more than doubled to 157, with many more planned in the coming years; and India’s government estimates that it has built 95,000 kilometres of highway. To put this last one in perspective, that would be enough highway to drive between New Zealand and India eight times.  

    Globally, India is a consequential and influential voice, successfully hosting the G20 in 2023, and a space power, becoming the first country to land a spacecraft on the moon’s South Pole two years ago.

    While in India, I had discussions with business leaders who are running companies doing incredible things. Innovators like Nadir Godrej, responsible for one of India’s biggest, oldest and best-known industrial groups, and Natarajan Chandrasekaran who chairs Tata, a conglomerate with a presence in dozens of countries around the world. It was inspiring to hear of their plans and, importantly, to pitch to them on the value of closer connections with New Zealand.

    For New Zealand, the economic opportunities in India are immense. Despite India’s growth and scale, it still only accounts for 1.5 per cent of our exports. We are working hard to change that. That was why I took so many business leaders with me to India. That’s why we worked so hard while in New Delhi and Mumbai to ensure New Zealand’s primary products, our technology, our education exports and our tourism offering were front and centre.  

    It is Kiwi and Indian businesses, including all of those in this room today, that are the engines of growth, creating new opportunities, lifting trade, and helping transform the relationship between our countries. And for all your ongoing effort and leadership in this regard, I thank you. 

    Part of my Government’s job is to improve the environment in which our great Kiwi businesses operate in their dealings with India. On that front, I am pleased to report that, during the mission to India, the Government made real progress. 

    First and foremost, I was delighted that Todd McClay and his Indian counterpart, Piyush Goyal, announced the launch of negotiations towards a Free Trade Agreement. The launch of negotiations is a breakthrough in the economic relationship between India and New Zealand. 

    Prime Minister Modi and I have instructed our negotiators to work quickly to reach a comprehensive and mutually beneficial agreement, one that promises to play a major role in doubling New Zealand’s exports by value over the next ten years.

    My Government is focused on growing our economy and lifting incomes, and the launch of negotiations presents an opportunity to do exactly that.

    On top of that, 33 MoUs and other commercial outcomes were progressed on the mission, reflecting the growing partnerships between New Zealand and Indian businesses. 

    Among those was an MoU between Air New Zealand and Air India to establish a new codeshare partnership on 16 routes between India, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. The MoU will also see these two great airlines explore the introduction of a direct service between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028. 

    This is a fantastic opportunity that promises to make it easier to fly between our countries and further boost our tourism and education sectors.

    Defence and security

    But there is so much more to our relationship with India than our economic ties. Which brings me to the second major theme of my visit, defence and security. 

    New Zealand is invested in supporting stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. 

    In an increasingly multipolar world, India is a major geopolitical power and a significant global and regional security actor.

    Prime Minister Modi and I agreed that our defence forces should build greater strategic trust with one another, including undertaking more exchanges and training together. 

    I was pleased to witness the signing of a new Defence Cooperation Arrangement with India. This arrangement enhances defence dialogue and connections and adds an important new dimension to our strategic engagement.

    One of the reasons why we want to build greater trust is so that we can have candid conversations at challenging times. On 22 April, India suffered a devastating terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. New Zealand condemns terrorism, and we sent our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of the attack.

    Since then, we have seen an escalation in tension and military activity. We encourage both India and Pakistan to show restraint at this difficult moment and try to de-escalate the situation.

    The situation in Jammu and Kashmir reminds us that we face an increasingly difficult and uncertain strategic outlook, including in the Indo‑Pacific region that India and New Zealand share.

    While I was in India, I had the great opportunity to share New Zealand’s perspective on the region as the Chief Guest at the Raisina Dialogue, which, as this audience will know, is India’s – and one of the world’s – premier defence and security events. 

    My message at Raisina was simple: There can be no prosperity without security.

    That is why it’s vitally important that New Zealand works closely with India and other partners in support of a region where countries are free to choose their own path free from interference, and where all countries respect foundational rules.  

    People-to-people links

    The third major theme of my mission centred on the links between our people. 

    New Zealand’s Indian community was a key feature of many of my discussions in India, including with Prime Minister Modi. 

    Prime Minister Modi praised New Zealand’s Indian diaspora, referring to it as a “living bridge” between our countries. Prime Minister Modi and I formally recognised the contribution of the diaspora in the joint statement released during my visit. 

    As this audience will be well aware, the 300,000-strong Indian community is the third largest ethnic group in New Zealand. India is our largest source of skilled migrants and our second-largest source of international students. 

    A point I made to Prime Minister Modi was that Kiwi-Indians are on average younger, better educated, and have greater earnings than the general New Zealand population. 

    In short, Indian-Kiwis are making a massive contribution to New Zealand. This is why I chose to take with me to India a senior delegation of community leaders.

    I made sure that my programme in India reflected and respected the deep cultural links between our countries. I paid my respects at a place sacred to many Kiwi-Hindus – the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. And I visited Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, a place of profound faith and history to Kiwi-Sikhs. 

    Of course, another indispensable element of our partnership with India is cricket. It was very special to visit Wankhede Stadium with Mumbai-born Ajaz Patel, who took the third-best bowling figures in Test history on that ground. 

    But our sporting links go beyond cricket. Prime Minister Modi and I also discussed his plans to diversify and enhance India’s prowess across multiple sports. India is particularly interested in Olympic sports as it looks to bolster Ahmedabad’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. Given our high-performance sports ecosystem and our outstanding record at the Olympics, this is an area where New Zealand is well positioned to work with India.

    I was particularly pleased to witness the signing of a Sports Memorandum of Cooperation between New Zealand and India. This arrangement allows us to develop new ways to collaborate across high-performance sports, and exchange programmes, skills, technology and innovation, research, and people.

    It should boost sports performance in each country and facilitate exchanges in areas such as community sports and health. 

    Cooperation in sports is particularly significant at a time when, next year, New Zealand and India will celebrate 100 years of sporting ties. We look forward to celebrating this milestone, including with a visit by the Indian men’s cricket team in late 2026.

    Next steps for government, business and community

    So, across people, culture, sport, defence and security, trade and economics – my mission to India left the relationship in a stronger position. But there is still a lot of work to do.

    I now want to take a few minutes to reflect on the next steps for this important relationship, and the respective roles of government, business and community. 

    I want to be clear that the mission to India was not the end goal. Rather, it was a springboard to help take our relationship to new heights. We now have an extensive work programme across every facet of the relationship. I will touch on just a couple of examples. 

    First, we have moved quickly to begin negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement, with the first round of talks already having taken place. 

    Second, our Government will be continuing a steady tempo of political-level engagements with our Indian counterparts. There is no substitute for face-to-face relationships with the key decision-makers, which is why I’m so pleased Minister Margherita has joined us today. During my meeting with Prime Minister Modi, I offered to reciprocate his warm and generous hospitality by inviting him to visit New Zealand when his schedule allows.

    Third, to give effect to the various areas of new co-operation, our Government has confirmed that we will need more people on the ground in India. New Zealand will increase our diplomatic footprint in India by more than 60 per cent, underscoring our commitment to the relationship and our ambition to see it grow further.

    The Government will be working hard to maintain the momentum, and continue building a broad, deep, and enduring strategic relationship with India. 

    But our relationship with India is far too important to be left to Government alone. There is a crucial role for two other actors in our society, business and community. 

    Our relationship with India is so significant that I want to see an ‘all of New Zealand’ effort with government, business and community all moving in the same direction. 

    The opportunities presented by India are immense. Many of you are already active in the market and have been for some years. But I want to see more New Zealand exporters building relationships in the market and putting together your own strategies for tapping into India’s enormous potential. 

    The wider Kiwi-Indian community also has a very important role as – in Prime Minister Modi’s words – the “living bridge” between New Zealand and India. 

    We will stay in touch with the senior delegation of community leaders that accompanied me to India. I encourage the Indian community in New Zealand to continue to share with the Government your insights into our relationship with India and ideas for how we can continue moving forward.

    Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you about the vital partnership between New Zealand and India.

    The INZBC have put together an excellent programme for today, featuring a range of speakers who are all committed to bringing New Zealand and India much closer together.

    The bottom line is we are two countries that can and should be doing much more together, and we will.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Twenty episodes and counting: lava fountains continue in Kaluapele

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch — Twenty episodes and counting: lava fountains continue in Kaluapele

    On December 23, 2024, eruptive activity at Kīlauea’s summit began again with the first in what has become 20 discrete lava fountaining episodes. Many episodes have had dual fountains—two erupting at the same time—a rare occurrence at Kīlauea and worldwide. The most recent episode 20 concluded at 9:28 p.m. H.S.T. on May 6, 2025.

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. Today’s article is by HVO geologists Drew Downs and Natalia Deligne.

    Photo compilation of episodes 1–20 of the ongoing eruption at the summit of Kīlauea, including webcam imagery and photos taken by USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists on the ground and during helicopter overflights. In all photos except for episode 7, the south vent is on the left and the north vent is on the right. For the episode 7 photo, the north vent is in the center and the south vent is below it to the right.

    Sustained lava fountaining, sometimes to impressive heights, have awed the crowds that have flocked to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to view the eruptions—along with those watching from home on two USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory livestreams (V1cam and V2cam). The duration of semi-regular lava fountaining has ranged from around 4.5 hours (episode 20) to as long as 8.5 days (episode 3). However, many (11 of the 20) of the fountaining periods have lasted less than 24 hours. Once sustained lava fountains begin, they usually reach heights of 100–350 ft (30–100 m) above the vents. The highest fountains yet measured during these episodes reached over 1,000 ft (300 m) during episodes 15 and 16 in March and April 2025.

    These lava fountains have fed lava flows, some more extensive than others, that have collectively continued to fill the crater formed during the 2018 summit collapse. In some places near the vents, the lava flows are nearly 200 ft (60 m) thick, and they have covered 816 acres (330 hectares).

    Repose intervals—or the pause times between episodes—have ranged from 16 hours to 12 days. Intermittent spattering and occasional lava flows have occurred between episodes, as happened twice during episode 18 when lava flows issued from the vents for a few hours, a few days prior to lava fountains commencing.

    These impressively high lava fountains have produced tephra (fragments of lava) and Pele’s hair (fibers of volcanic glass). The distribution of tephra is controlled by prevailing wind patterns, with fallout zones downwind of the vents. Trade winds blowing to the southwest are most common, and this has resulted in tephra accumulating in the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to thicknesses that can reach greater than 6.5 ft (2 m). During slack and Kona winds, tephra and Pele’s hair have fallen on the summit region around Volcano village, the Volcano Golf Course, and along Highway 11 near Nāmakanipaio campground.

    Almost all eruptive activity has been sourced from two vents at the base of the western wall of Halemaʻumaʻu crater within Kaluapele (the summit caldera). These are referred to as the north and south vents, and they have alternated in dominance during episodes. At times the south vent has generated spectacular lava fountains that have reached over 1,000 ft (300 m) tall, whereas the north vent has primarily exhibited low‑level spattering or lava ponding, but there have been reversals of this pattern. Since episode 14, gas pistoning—the rhythmic rise and fall of the lava column—has been observed within both vents prior to fountaining by hours to a full day, and it is usually visible in the V1cam livestream.

    Each episode of high lava fountaining coincides with the onset of sharp deflation at the summit. Pre-fountaining inflation at UWD and SDH tiltmeters, used to measure inflationary and deflationary signals near Uēkahuna and to the south of Kaluapele, gives way to rapid deflation. At the same time, seismic tremor increases rapidly as more fluid moves through the conduits to erupt from the vents. A rapid turnaround from deflation to inflation and drop in seismic tremor marks the end of an episode.

    These spectacular lava fountains have been easily visible from many of the publicly accessible overlooks within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Even so, hazards persist during volcanic activity for those visiting to enjoy the sights. Shifting winds blow around elevated concentrations of volcanic gases, particularly strong-smelling sulfur dioxide (SO2), and tephra and Pele’s hair that are mostly comprised of volcanic glass. The gases and small glassy particles can irritate respiratory systems, and Pele’s hair can form splinters under the skin.

    As the summit of Kīlauea continues its lava fountaining episodes, HVO will maintain its continuous monitoring and livestreaming to document the eruption’s evolution, inform hazard assessments, and apprise the public of ongoing volcanic activity.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.

    Episode 20 of the Kīlauea summit eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu crater ended on May 6 after 4.5 hours of fountaining reaching maximum heights of about 500 feet (150 meters) at the north vent. Strong glow has been visible in both the north and south vents and summit region inflation since the end of episode 20 suggests that another episode is possible. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. 

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    One earthquake was reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M3.6 earthquake 6 km (3 mi) WSW of Laupāhoehoe at 31 km (19 mi) depth on May 2 at 12:59 p.m. HST.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks with Trump Defense Nominees on Supporting Small Businesses and Service Academy Oversight

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Sean O’Keefe, President Trump’s nominee to be Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, and Michael Obadal, President Trump’s nominee to be Under Secretary of the Army during their Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) nomination hearing. During the hearing, they spoke about how the Army can integrate and support small defense businesses and different ways to improve the United States’ military service academies.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON RCCTO AT REDSTONE ARSENAL:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you for your service, first of all. […] One of our new defense contractors, obviously, has taken a novel approach to supporting the warfighter. You know, newer companies like this have become successful, partly because newer defense contract and authorities and organizations such as the RCCTO, which is headquartered in Redstone Arsenal in my state of Alabama, you know, we’re making progress. 
    So, how can the Army continue to improve our acquisition systems based on the lessons learned from the RCCTO?”
    OBADAL: “Senator, thank you for the question as this is a critical part of Army transformation. And I believe that the RCCTO really showed us that we can rapidly understand the problem, innovate solutions with industry, and then field them rapidly in a number of different ways. My experience in commercial industry, and specifically in the defense technology industry, gave me a wide exposure to a number of different companies dealing with the acquisition corps. And having been on both sides of the table and having overseen acquisitions in my government service, I came to the conclusion that the Army needs to be a better customer. And we need to do that through streamlining our requirements through predictability of requirements and not changing them and moving the goalpost on the defense industry. 
    With that said, we always have to have agile requirements, which requires modularity, both software and hardware. So, if confirmed, when I look at the entire acquisition corps, I believe the people—we have fantastic people—in our acquisition corps who have given us the world’s strongest Army. It is our processes that we have to fix. So, if confirmed Senator, I would work diligently on that.”
    ON SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES IN DEFENSE:
    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Thank you. As Senator Ernst said earlier, last week, the Army announced the ATI initiative [is] headed in a different direction in some areas. I understand that being an old football coach—you can’t keep doing the same thing over and over, you gotta change along with your adversary, and obviously we need to do that. You know, part of this change last week, canceling multiple programs, you know, one of these contracts, the Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System, was won by a small family business in Alabama, my home state, named Griffin Aerospace. On Friday, they were notified that the thousands of man hours and millions of dollars that they had spent and invested in good faith were basically wasted. It’s hard to understand that from their perspective. I’d like to suggest to you that the Army restore faith with this type of businesses because we need these smaller businesses. That is not Lockheed [Martin], this is not Boeing—who could really absorb this. This is gonna devastate this country. And at the end of the day, they need more than an, ‘oops.’ You know, we wanna change here. Do you agree with that?”
    OBADAL: “Senator, I wholeheartedly agree that the Army needs to take care of small business[es] as best it can. And I believe there are a number of different ways that we can do that because small business[es], in my experience, is where most of the innovation comes from. And obviously large companies, like you mentioned, build us exquisite weapon systems and we need them, but we have to make sure that we’re cultivating a robust small and medium sized business ecosystem.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Thank you. And, you know, in my state, in Huntsville, we have probably 600-800 small defense contractors. We can’t lose them. You know, they get bought out obviously regularly, but we need to make sure that, you know, for future innovation, they’re as important as anybody. So, thank you for that.
    ON MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMY OVERSIGHT:
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. O’Keefe, in my role as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Personnel, we held our first hearing, as you well know, with our [superintendents] of our [service] academies in 30 years. [The] first one in 30 years. […] One of the things we illuminated during that hearing is that permanent military professors at the academies require Senate confirmation—which is very understandable—while civilian-tenured faculty are not [Senate confirmed], making them as far as I can tell, the only lifetime government employee [that] is not subject to advice and consent. How do you feel about that?”
    O’KEEFE: “Senator, it’s an interesting dynamic when the permanent professors were set up decades ago, the majority of the faculty was all military at the service academies. I suppose the concern anytime you’re discussing whether to make more civilian positions Senate confirmed is perhaps extended vacancies. I do think that there’s some room to evaluate the administrative faculty authority. You know, they have a slightly nuanced statutory scheme that applies to civilian faculty. They didn’t always have tenure for instance. So, I think that is something that should be evaluated, which I think could improve the […] effectiveness of the workforce, of the faculty mix there. Without perhaps causing some of the vacancies that I think might result with Senate confirmation. But I do think that’s an area to take a look at. I know the Secretary has mentioned that that’s something he wants to take a look at as well.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, and when confirmed, I have some suggestions [for what superintendents can] do about transforming, you know, our military academies to make them better. We don’t wanna do something just to do it, but we need to make them better and grow with the times. And so, [I] look forward to visiting with you on that and working with you.”
    O’KEEFE: “Absolutely, Senator.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Denounces Trump’s Meme Coin Corruption Scheme & Backs Ban on Presidents, Lawmakers, and Their Families from Issuing Digital Assets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to crack down on corruption and prevent the swindling of unsuspecting crypto users, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is sounding the alarm about corruption surrounding the Trump family’s cryptocurrency “meme coins” and stablecoins that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump launched in conjunction with taking office.  This week, Senator Reed helped introduce new legislation to prevent cryptocurrency-related corruption by elected officials at the highest levels of the federal government.

    Reed is teaming up with Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and several colleagues in introducing the End Crypto Corruption Act.  This legislation would ban the President, Vice President, Senior Executive Branch Officials, Members of Congress, and their immediate families from financially benefiting from issuing, endorsing, or sponsoring crypto assets, such as meme coins and stablecoins.

    Just days before his second-term inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump launched the $TRUMP meme coin, which surged over 300 percent within hours of its release, reaching an alleged value of nearly $6 billion.  Two days later, first-lady-in-waiting Melania Trump launched her own coin: $MELANIA.  At least one large U.S. trading venue then began offering $TRUMP for sale to retail investors, when it was trading at $74.  This allowed insiders and early investors to cash out, dump their tokens on the unsuspecting public, cause the price to collapse, and leave retail investors holding the bag.  As a result, the Trump family and their cronies received millions of real dollars, while investors received a crypto coin in free fall.

    Since the $TRUMP coin was launched earlier this year, it has generated more than $320 million in fees for its creators, according to the blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis.  And just moments before Melania Trump publicly announced her cryptocurrency, two dozen digital wallets rapidly purchased large quantities of the token, netting a collective $99.6 million windfall, an investigation by the Financial Times revealed.

    So-called meme coins are a form of digital currency that tend to catch on thanks to viral trends, jokes, or celebrity endorsements. They are usually created to engage a community.  While most meme coins never take off, some do, and the most known, such as Dogecoin, which was started as a parody and touted by Elon Musk, has a supposed value of more than $25 billion.

    When President Trump’s meme coin lost 88 percent of its value earlier this year, the Trump family promoted a private meeting with President Trump for some of the meme coin’s top investors at a VIP dinner on May 22 at Trump National Golf Club followed by a special White House tour. 

    Chainalysis reports that 58 wallets have made over $10 million each from President Donald Trump’s meme coin, totaling $1.1 billion in profits.  Meanwhile, 764,000 wallets of mostly small holders have lost money on $TRUMP, according to the firm.

    Another example of the Trump family’s crypto entanglements is the Emirati venture firm MGX announcing it will use stablecoins issued by World Liberty Financial—the Trump family’s blockchain company—to pay for its recent $2 billion investment into the crypto exchange Binance.  MGX could have made their investments with real U.S. dollars, but instead chose to do so using Trump’s crypto dollar alternative.  According to experts, this deal could net the Trump family $80 million over a year.

    A stablecoin is any cryptocurrency designed to have a relatively stable price, typically through being pegged to a commodity or currency or having its supply regulated by an algorithm.

    The End Crypto Corruption Act directly addresses and curbs the Trump Administration’s ethically dubious actions regarding both meme coins and stablecoins.

    “Currently, people who wish to cultivate influence with the president can enrich him personally by buying cryptocurrency he owns or controls,” said Senator Merkley. “This is a profoundly corrupt scheme. It endangers our national security and erodes public trust in government. Let’s end this corruption immediately.”

    “If Donald Trump wants to become a crypto trader, he can resign and go do it on his own dime.  But the president and members of Congress should not be able to misuse their position of public trust to cash in on brazen pay-to-play money grabs that smack of corruption and should be widely condemned.  Presidents should not have a giant crypto-bribery funnel just sitting out there for foreign entities and favor seekers to transfer them money and get special access or favors in return.  Americans should not grow numb to such corrosive misconduct or tolerate a Grifter-in-Chief,” said Senator Reed.  “This is not a partisan issue, it’s an anti-corruption imperative: Those who wield political power to enrich themselves must be held accountable, whether they are taking a sack full of cash or millions in crypto currency.” 

    Reed has also noted that in order for cryptocurrency to be sustainable, digital asset market participants need investor protections to ensure the marketplace is not rigged and plagued with corruption.  A balanced regulatory framework for digital assets coupled with strong oversight is also essential to ensure investors and capital markets are protected.

    In addition to Merkley and Reed, the End Crypto Corruption Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

    Non-profits such as Democracy Defenders Action and Public Citizen have endorsed the End Crypto Corruption Act.

    “The cryptocurrency industry is desperately in need of regulation—but not at the expense of allowing it to become an effective tool for corruption,” said Virginia Canter, Anticorruption and Ethics Chief Counsel and Director at Democracy Defenders Action. “It’s critical that we prevent public officials like the President and members of Congress from offering volatile and novel assets that create an unacceptable conflict of interest risk. By prohibiting these officials from issuing digital assets —and including similar language in all cryptocurrency legislation—Congress will demonstrate that their focus, and the focus of all public servants, remains squarely on the needs and interests of the nation, not on the profits they can make from encouraging others to speculate in the highly volatile digital marketplace.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Stepmums, alien mums, robot mums, vengeful mums: 7 films to watch this Mother’s Day

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Gildersleeve, Professor of English Literature, University of Southern Queensland

    With Mother’s Day around the corner, you may be wondering what gift you’ll give mum – or any of the mums in your life. This year, why not skip the fancy dinner and offer one of the most precious gifts there is: quality time, in front of the TV.

    When I asked seven experts what movies they’d recommend for Mother’s Day, I wasn’t expecting I, Tonya or Alien: Romulus – but their responses have made me realise just how multifaceted the experience of motherhood is, and how weirdly and wonderfully it can be reflected onscreen.

    So here’s what to watch if you want to laugh, cry, or scream, in an ode to mothers everywhere.

    I, Tonya (2017)

    The first film from Margot Robbie’s production company LuckyChap Entertainment – which earned Robbie an Oscar nomination for best actress – is an ideal viewing choice for anyone wanting to support Aussie female talent.

    Former American figure skater Tonya Harding became a household name in 1994, after her then-husband Jeff Gillooly orchestrated an assault on her primary rival, Nancy Kerrigan, in a bid to block Kerrigan from representing the United States at that year’s Winter Olympics.

    I, Tonya presents the event, and those of Harding’s career leading up to it, from a more sympathetic perspective than usual. Although it is careful to open with the caveat that the story is derived from “irony-free, wildly contradictory, totally true interviews with Tonya Harding and Jeff Gillooly”, the film presents Harding’s life as one of abuse and cruelty at every turn.

    The judges can’t stand her “unfeminine” power. Her husband only shows love through violence. And her heartless mother, LaVona (Alison Janney) is desperate to cash-in on the financial gains from her career success, while simultaneously resenting it.

    Janney’s performance as LaVona won her the Academy Award for best supporting actress, a title thoroughly deserved as an ice-cold LaVona chainsmokes through barbed criticisms and physical threats. While I, Tonya may not be the most obvious choice for a film to watch on Mother’s Day, it certainly will make you appreciate yours.

    – Jessica Gildersleeve

    Stepmom (1998)

    Stepmom, starring Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon, is a family weepy for anyone who needs a cathartic cry. Directed by Chris Columbus, the comedy–drama follows the story of terminally ill woman Jackie Harrison (Sarandon) as she comes to grips with the fact her ex-husband’s new girlfriend Isabel (Roberts) will soon be her children’s stepmother.

    The film, like others under Columbus’ direction, is a critique of domestic dysfunction (think Home Alone, Mrs Doubtfire, or Nine Months), and an exploration of the lengths characters will go in order to restore the ruptured (nuclear) family, whether literally or symbolically.

    Despite its melodramatic machinery and predictable ending, Stepmom offers a nuanced portrayal of the struggles of children during separation or divorce. We see 12-year-old Anna and her little brother, Ben, an aspiring magician, caught in an emotional tug-of-war between their loyalty to their dying mother and their natural affection for their new stepmum.

    In an honest moment, an anxious Ben asks his dad, “can you ever fall out of love with your kids?”

    “No, that’s impossible,” Dad responds.

    In an equally realistic thread, the sullen Anna begrudgingly turns to Isabel for advice on boys, clothes and makeup – their relationship soon resembling one of sisters rather than adversaries (controversially, Roberts’ character even takes it upon herself to explain the concept of “snowblowing” to the tween).

    In 1998, Stepmom was ahead of its time – not in its representation of motherhood, but in its acknowledgement the nuclear family was, even back then, a thing of the past.

    – Kate Cantrell

    Double Jeopardy (1999)

    Like most thrillers made in the 1990s, Double Jeopardy begins in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States: the epicentre for murder and mist.

    Libby Parsons (Ashley Judd) is living the idyllic waterfront life with her husband Nick (Bruce Greenwood) and son Matty. After being convinced by Nick to go yachting, Libby wakes up on the boat (during what could best be described as a mist storm) to discover Nick is missing, and there is an endless path of blood from her hands to the yacht’s edge.

    Libby is tried and convicted for Nick’s murder. While grieving her son in jail, she finds out her husband is actually alive and has framed her. Libby’s cellmate tells her about the “double jeopardy” rule: you can’t be tried for the same crime twice.

    The montage of Libby preparing for revenge in jail signals an uptick in campy action. Upon her release, we’re introduced to parole officer Travis (Tommy Lee Jones). A game of cat and mouse ensues that is equal parts thrilling and ridiculous.

    Ultimately, Libby must choose between vengeance and getting her son back. Will she follow the rules and wait, or will she put her relentless jail workouts to good use? Double Jeopardy is profoundly stupid and fun, with all the unexpected charm of a midday movie that pulls you in, despite not making much sense.

    It’s just the kind of movie my mum and I have found ourselves glued to on a Saturday afternoon – cheerleaders for revenge.

    – Kathleen Williams

    Monster-in-Law (2005)

    What lengths would you go to protect your son from marrying someone unsuitable? One of the first references to the roles of the mother-in-law can be traced back to Latin literature, and the comedic play Hecyra, by Roman playwright Terence, which was first successfully performed in 160 BC. The play’s comedic twist is that the mother-in-law is accused of hating her son’s wife.

    The 2005 box office hit Monster-in-Law (2005) follows this trajectory and takes it to the extreme. Viola Fields (Jane Fonda) becomes manipulative and acts downright dirty to prevent her son, Kevin (Michael Vartan), from getting married to his fiancée Charlie (Jennifer Lopez) – who she thinks is not good enough for him.

    This romantic comedy has the conventions of love, romance, a wedding, and overall impending chaos. It is about a mother trying to do what she thinks is best for her son, as well as the fragile links between romantic love, familial love and matriarchy.

    In parts, the film transgresses into slapstick territory, as Kevin remains oblivious of Viola’s volatile antics towards Charlie. The tension between the two strong female leads hilariously spirals out of control in the lead-up to the wedding.

    Monster-in-Law is a feel-good film that draws on the close bond between mother and child, making it good viewing for Mother’s Day.

    – Panizza Allmark

    The Wild Robot (2024)

    There’s a cultural belief that once your baby is in your arms, you’ll immediately know how to look after them, or that you can draw on your own experience of being mothered, or find the right path in one of eleventy billion parenting books.

    But even if you did have a good experience of being mothered (and many don’t), or you find some great books, parenthood remains a journey of uncertainty and trial and error.

    When I took my young children to see The Wild Robot, I laughed and cried way more than them. Not just because the animation was so beautiful, or because the story was so moving, but because of the non-didactic moments that resonated so strongly with how we parents feel.

    We often don’t know what we’re doing; we’re trying our best, and wishing it will be the right thing – playing out an internal war between wanting to protect our children and wanting them to forge their own path.

    In The Wild Robot, Roz the robot (voiced by Lupita Nyong’o) is focused on helping her adopted gosling Brightbill (Kit Connor) learn how to fly – something she has no experience of. More importantly, Brightbill must fly on a migration flight with other birds, where she can’t join him.

    The film mirrors the beautiful and horrifying knowledge parents carry: if we do our job, our children will become their own individuals who are able and willing to leave us. All we can hope is we’ve formed a bond that will make them want to return.

    – Rebecca Beirne

    My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

    Was your mother born overseas? It’s likely. Nearly half of all Australians have a parent born overseas. Or perhaps you married into a family where your “new mum” was born overseas?

    Your mother-in-law counts on Mother’s Day. Don’t forget it. And if you married into a wonderfully loud Greek/Italian family as I did, then your mother-in-law is likely a hard worker who deserves to be entertained. So why not offer her, and all the mums in your life, a sweet, disarming rom-com about a clash of cultures and a life milestone all mums can get behind: a wedding. A Big Fat Greek Wedding, to be precise.

    Written by and starring Nia Vardalos, this film tells the tale of Toula Portokalos, who, at the “advanced” age of 30, remains persistently unmarried in the early aughts Chicago. In Greek terms, this is already a tragedy. The title does a lot of heavy lifting in terms of what comes next.

    The real charm of the film is the clash of cultures that anyone with any ethnic background will recognise.

    My Big Fat Greek Wedding was a small film with huge global success. Will your mum care it was made with a budget of just US$5 million but grossed more than US$360 million worldwide, making it one of the most profitable films of all time, with a more than 6,150% return? Probably not.

    But she’ll love John Corbett, that tall guy who was also in Sex in City (and he’s really good in this one). Just make sure you skip the sequels.

    – Ruari Elkington

    Alien: Romulus (2024)

    Not everyone wants to watch saccharine romantic comedies on Mothers’ Day. If you can relate, dystopian horror film Alien: Romulus (2024) offers much darker pleasures.

    Feminist scholars have long found the Alien franchise to be rife with symbolism and repressed fears about motherhood, birth and reproductive organs. Alien: Romulus goes further than the original 1979 film in making the theme of sexual violation explicit. As you might expect from Fede Álvarez, the director of Evil Dead (2013), there is plenty of body horror as human characters are assaulted and orally impregnated by Alien species.

    The film also includes neo-Marxist messages about “the company” and its violation of workers’ bodies. Working mums may enjoy the dark humour of a futuristic corporation that literally sucks the life out of workers before politely thanking them for their service.

    Leading action woman Rain Carradine (Cailee Spaeny) is more vulnerable and relatable than the iconic character Ripley of previous films. When Rain discovers her work contract has tipped over into slavery, she joins up with her ex-boyfriend Tyler (Archie Renaux) and his pregnant sister Kay (Isabela Merced) to hijack a space station.

    They must then manage a coolly indifferent IT operating system called “MU/TH/UR” to control the ship. The fact Kay is pregnant does not bode well; her baby eventually bursts out as a hideous alien-human mutant which tries to eat her.

    Alien Romulus is basically every unspeakable anxiety about pregnancy and motherhood realised through spectacular special effects. It’s also the franchise’s best film since the original.

    – Susan Hopkins

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Stepmums, alien mums, robot mums, vengeful mums: 7 films to watch this Mother’s Day – https://theconversation.com/stepmums-alien-mums-robot-mums-vengeful-mums-7-films-to-watch-this-mothers-day-255004

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why it’s important to read aloud to your kids – even after they can read themselves

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robyn Cox, Professor of Literacy Education, University of Tasmania

    Mart Production/Pexels , CC BY

    Is reading to your kids a bedtime ritual in your home? For many of us, it will be a visceral memory of our own childhoods. Or of the time raising now grown-up children.

    Perhaps it involves a nightly progression through the Percy Jackson series or the next Captain Underpants book. Or maybe there’s a request to have Room on the Broom again (and again).

    But for some households, reading aloud is not a regular activity. A recent UK report by publisher Harper Collins found many parents are not reading to their kids. Fewer than half (41%) of 0–4-year-olds are read to frequently. More than 20% of parents surveyed agreed reading is “more a subject to learn than a fun thing to do”.

    The report also found some parents stop reading to their children once they can read by themselves. As the Guardian reported, some parents assume “it will make [their child] lazy and less likely to read independently”.

    Here’s why it’s important to read to your children – even after they have learned to read.

    What’s involved in reading skills?

    Research on reading skills suggests there are two main types of skills involved in learning to read.

    1. Constrained skills are skills that once we learn, we keep. For example, once we learn the alphabet we don’t have to keep learning it. It’s like riding a bike.

    2. Unconstrained skills are skills we continue to learn throughout life. For example, vocabulary, reading fluency (how quickly and smoothly you read) and reading comprehension. Even as adults we continue to learn new word and language forms.

    We know reading to infants and younger children can build early language skills, such as the sounds of words and the alphabet. Reading to older children is a simple way to build unconstrained skills.

    Reading aloud builds vocabulary skills, which we continue to build all our lives.
    RDNE Stock Project/ Pexels, CC BY

    How reading aloud helps

    The books we read aloud at bedtime to young readers tend to be those they can’t read themselves.

    So it introduces more complex ideas, words and sentence patterns. This is why reading aloud to your children is a parental superpower – you can continue to build where the school learning stops.

    Reading together can also encourage closeness between children and parents, as well as shared knowledge and laughs.

    When you are reading to your child, they have your full attention, which also makes the time special.

    What should you be reading?

    Reading aloud doesn’t necessarily have to involve multiple chapters of a book. Research suggests what matters is that it’s something you are both interested in and enjoying.

    You could read to your child on a device, or you could even tell a traditional tale without a book.

    You could read poetry, news articles or magazine articles about a favourite football team or player – these can all build unconstrained literacy skills.

    Even re-reading a beloved picture book from younger years can build fluency and focus on direct speech in text (especially when the reader does “funny” voices).

    You can read non-fiction as well as fiction books, magazines and news articles.
    Kindel Media/Pexels, CC BY

    How often should you read to your child?

    Family life is busy and parents often have many commitments. So there are no rules, other than to make it fun. Don’t be put off by “how much you have to do” – a few minutes of engaged reading time together is better than none at all.

    You could read to your child when you yourself are reading something and want to share it. If it’s too hard to read to your child every night, do it every weekend night or make another time during the week. Or ask a grandparent or older sibling to help.

    And there is no set age to stop – if you like, keep reading to your kids until they leave home!

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

    – ref. Why it’s important to read aloud to your kids – even after they can read themselves – https://theconversation.com/why-its-important-to-read-aloud-to-your-kids-even-after-they-can-read-themselves-256089

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos: JACKBIT Ranked As Top Online Casino Of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    Frequently Asked Questions

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    Legal Disclaimer

    This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or gambling advice. Information is presented “as is,” without warranties. Readers must verify compliance with local gambling laws. The publisher is not liable for losses or consequences.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    Some links may be affiliate links, earning a commission at no cost to you. Recommendations are objective, and partnerships do not influence content.

    Email: support@JACKBIT.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7307b375-0e00-45a3-aafd-693b0e28892e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Police find human remains suspected to be of missing journalist and partner

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, May 8, 2025

    The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has confirmed that the police have found human remains in an open veld in the KwaMhlanga area in Mpumalanga. 

    Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said DNA testing will be conducted to ascertain if they belong to missing Pretoria-based journalist and his partner. 

    “The area where the remains were found was pointed out by suspects as an area where they left the pair,” said Mathe on Thursday.

    The couple had been missing since 18 February 2025.

    On Sunday, a cross-province operation involving Gauteng and Mpumalanga police — led by the Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya and the Acting Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph MKhwanazi — led to the questioning and subsequent arrests of four suspects.

    The first suspect, according to investigations, is said to have been the last in the company of the missing couple.

    The second, third and fourth suspects were found with different vehicle parts believed to be that of Ndlovu. 

    One of those arrested is said to be a mechanic who builds and fixes cars in KwaMhlanga.

    Two of the Volkswagen Citi Golfs that were found in the possession of the suspects have been seized. – SAnews.govza 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at Parkinson’s Disease risk and proximity to golf courses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at proximity to Golf Courses and the risk of Parkinson’s Disease.

    Prof David Dexter, Director of Research, Parkinson’s UK, said: 

    “This study suggests an association between pesticides and Parkinson’s, however there are some important limitations in the methodology to be aware of. Firstly, Parkinson’s starts in the brain 10-15 years before diagnosis and the study didn’t only use subjects who permanently lived in the area. This would not only affect participants’ exposure, but also suggests their Parkinson’s could have started before they moved around a golf course. The population was also not matched for location with 80% of the Parkinson’s subjects living in urban areas, compared to only 30% of controls, hence other factors like air pollution from motor vehicles etc could also account for some of the increases in Parkinson’s incidence. Additionally, no analysis was made of the drinking water for pesticide levels. Once again, this lessens the validity of the claim of pesticide exposure because the studies have not been carefully controlled.”

     

    Dr Katherine Fletcher, Research Lead at Parkinson’s UK, said:

    “Parkinson’s is complex. The causes of the condition are unclear and are likely to involve both genetic and environmental factors. Many studies have investigated whether pesticides increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s in different populations around the world. The results have been varied, but overall suggest that exposure to pesticides may increase the risk of the condition. However, the evidence is not strong enough to show that pesticide exposure directly causes Parkinson’s. This study supports the association between pesticides and Parkinson’s. However, it’s quite reductive and doesn’t take into account how someone might have been exposed to pesticides at their workplace or whether they have a genetic link to the condition.

    “In Europe and the UK, the use of pesticides are strictly controlled, and some – like paraquat – are banned, due to concerns about their wider health and environmental impacts. So, the risk of exposure to these for most people is extremely low.”

     

    ‘Proximity to Golf Courses and Risk of Parkinson Disease’ by Krzyzanowski et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time on Thursday 08th May 2025.

     

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.9198

     

    Declared interests

    Prof David Dexter: “The author declares that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence their comment reported in this article.”

    Dr Katherine Fletcher: “The author declares that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence their comment reported in this article.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Carolina’s Top Paramedic Team for 2025 is Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: North Carolina’s Top Paramedic Team for 2025 is Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS

    North Carolina’s Top Paramedic Team for 2025 is Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS
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    GREENSBORO

    The Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS team of Jessica Haines and Hannah Thompson claimed the top honors at the 33rd annual North Carolina Paramedic Competition held on Sunday, May 4, in Greensboro, earning the state title for the first time.

    Jessica Haines (left) and Hannah Thompson (right) of Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS receive the plaque from Tom Mitchell, Chief of the NC Office of Emergency Medical Services, commemorating their victory in the North Carolina Paramedic Competition State Championships held in Greensboro on May 4.

    Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS were among the top six teams from across the state in this year’s competition at the annual NC Emergency Medical Services Expo — an educational conference for paramedics, EMTs and county emergency services directors to sharpen their skills with presentations from faculty from across the state and the U.S.

    The Cumberland EMS team outperformed the 2024 returning champions, Harnett County EMS, as well as four other regional champion duos who earned their respective spots following competitions in March in Brunswick, Catawba, Cumberland, Johnston and Surry counties. Those teams included Mecklenburg EMS and Whiteville Rescue as well as two Surry County EMS crews.

    All six teams were held in sequestration before emerging to respond to the same, true-to-life mock emergency. This year’s scenario involved managing three critical patients at the scene of a high school football game. They initially had to manage a seriously injured player with a collapsed lung on the field. Soon after the coach became ill, after having taken too much of his blood pressure medication. Finally, an argument broke out between the inebriated father and mother of the injured player, resulting in the mother being stabbed. Competing teams were challenged to respond to all of these individual crises as part of the mock emergency.

    Tom Mitchell, chief of the N.C. Office of Emergency Medical Services, announced the winning team to much applause and congratulations from the winners’ peers during the Expo’s closing banquet held Tuesday evening.

    “These incredible EMS teams work hard all year to prepare for this event and for their day-to-day duties,” Mitchell said. “Just like in this competition, these paramedics never know what they may face when responding to the needs of North Carolinians. Their extensive training results in improved quality of care for all residents and visitors who may experience illness or injury in an emergency situation.”

    During the competition, each team has just 12 minutes to assess, treat and stabilize the mock scenario’s victims. They must respond quickly while using their training, education and expertise to provide appropriate care to the victims. All teams are judged on the professionalism of their response and ranked on the categories of communications, patient rapport, attitude, organization and conduct.

    The competition is viewed by hundreds of their peers gathered in the Joseph S. Koury Convention Center’s Guilford Ballroom, which had been transformed into a high school football field.

    The annual competition serves as a training opportunity for the participating EMS teams as well as the paramedics and emergency medical technicians who closely observe each group’s analysis and response to the scenario.

    Through the Office of Emergency Medical Services, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services works to foster emergency medical systems, trauma systems and credentialed EMS personnel to improve in providing responses to emergencies and disasters. For more information, visit ncems.org.

     

    El equipo de EMS de Cape Fear Valley Cumberland de Jessica Haines y Hannah Thompson reclamó los máximos honores en la 33ª Competencia Anual de Paramédicos de Carolina del Norte celebrada el domingo 4 de mayo en Greensboro, ganando el título estatal por primera vez.

    Cape Fear Valley Cumberland EMS estuvo entre los seis mejores equipos de todo el estado en la competencia de este año en la Exposición anual de Servicios Médicos de Emergencia de Carolina del Norte, una conferencia educativa para paramédicos, EMT y directores de servicios de emergencia del condado para mejorar sus habilidades con presentaciones de profesores de todo el estado y los EE. UU.

    El equipo de Cumberland EMS  superó a los campeones de 2024 que regresaron de Harnett County EMS, así como a otros cuatro dúos de campeones regionales que ganaron sus respectivos puestos después de las competiciones en marzo en los condados de Brunswick, Catawba, Cumberland, Johnston y Surry. Esos equipos incluían Mecklenburg EMS y Whiteville Rescue, así como dos equipos de EMS del condado de Surry.

    Los seis equipos fueron aislados antes de emerger para responder a la misma emergencia simulada real. El escenario de este año implicó el manejo de tres pacientes críticos en la escena de un partido de fútbol de la escuela secundaria. Inicialmente tuvieron que gestionar una situación de un jugador gravemente herido con un pulmón colapsado en el campo, poco después de que el entrenador se enfermara, después de haber tomado demasiada medicación para la presión arterial. Finalmente, estalló una discusión entre el padre y la madre ebrios del jugador lesionado, lo que provocó que la madre fuera apuñalada. Los equipos competidores tuvieron el desafío de responder a todas estas crisis individuales como parte del simulacro de emergencia.

    Tom Mitchell, jefe de la Oficina de Servicios Médicos de Emergencia de Carolina del Norte, anunció el equipo ganador con muchos aplausos y felicitaciones de los compañeros de los ganadores durante el banquete de clausura de la Expo celebrado el martes por la noche.

    “Estos increíbles equipos de EMS trabajan duro todo el año para prepararse para este evento y para sus tareas diarias”, dijo Mitchell. “Al igual que en esta competencia, estos paramédicos nunca saben lo que pueden enfrentar al responder a las necesidades de los habitantes de Carolina del Norte. Su amplia capacitación da como resultado una mejor calidad de atención para todos los residentes y visitantes que pueden experimentar enfermedades o lesiones en una situación de emergencia”.

    Durante la competencia, cada equipo tiene solo 12 minutos para evaluar, tratar y estabilizar a las víctimas del escenario simulado. Deben responder rápidamente mientras utilizan su capacitación, educación y experiencia para brindar la atención adecuada a las víctimas. Todos los equipos son juzgados por la profesionalidad de su respuesta y clasificados en las categorías de comunicación, relación con el paciente, actitud, organización y conducta.

    La competencia es presenciada por cientos de sus compañeros reunidos en el salón de baile Guilford del Joseph S. Koury Centro de Convenciones, que se había transformado en un campo de fútbol de la escuela secundaria.

    La competencia anual sirve como una oportunidad de capacitación para los equipos participantes de EMS, así como para los paramédicos y técnicos médicos de emergencia que observan de cerca el análisis y la respuesta de cada grupo al escenario.

    A través de la Oficina de Servicios Médicos de Emergencia, el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte trabaja para fomentar los sistemas médicos de emergencia, los sistemas de trauma y el personal acreditado de EMS para mejorar la prestación de respuestas a emergencias y desastres. Para obtener más información, visite ncems.org.

    May 8, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: TAB Bank Named ‘Best Community Bank’ in the Utah Best of State Awards for the Third Consecutive Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OGDEN, Utah, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For the third consecutive year, TAB Bank has been named ‘Best Community Bank’ in the 2025 Utah Best of State Awards. TAB will be honored at the Best of State Gala on Tuesday, June 10, at the Salt Palace Grand Ballroom in Salt Lake City.

    Best of State celebrates Utah’s most outstanding individuals, businesses and organizations that demonstrate excellence in their fields, embrace innovation and contribute to the state’s quality of life. TAB Bank was recognized by Best of State judges for its commitment to community and social responsibility and for delivering exceptional financial products and solutions to businesses, families and individuals nationwide.

    TAB Bank recently unveiled a refreshed vision: “Building value in all we do.” With this renewed focus, the bank aims to advance its mission of “Unlocking dreams with bold financial solutions that lift and empower.” In alignment with this vision, the bank achieved several milestones in the past year:

    • Launched TAB Spend, a checking account offering high-yield interest and cash back rewards on everyday purchases, resulting in a 37% increase in Total Consumer Deposits from 2023.
    • Offered TAB Save, one of the most competitive high-yield savings accounts available, peaking at 5.27% APY (Annual Percentage Yield) and currently offering 4.26% APY, 10x the national average.
    • More than doubled the Small Business Lending Portfolio over the past two years.
    • Surpassed 2023’s revenue by 11%.
    • Recognized as a Top 10 Best Online Bank for 2025 by GOBankingRates.
    • Produced a Super Bowl LIX ad for TAB Spend, reaching 1.2 million viewers, driving a 103% surge in Google searches and a 343% spike in website traffic.
    • Provided $65 million in community development loans, investments and grants.
    • Donated over $80,000 to community organizations.
    • Supported more than 30 local foundations/non-profit organizations.
    • Host and Title Sponsor of the Ogden Rescue Mission Charity Golf Tournament which has raised $540,000 since its inception in 2001 to provide 185,000 meals and other critical services for individuals in need across Northern Utah.
    • Contributed nearly 2,000 hours of community service.

    “We’re incredibly excited about our third win as Utah’s Best Community Bank,” said Austin Strong, CEO of TAB Bank. “This recognition results from TAB’s extraordinary people, excellent operations and exceptional customer experience. We remain dedicated to building the best financial products and services and are deeply grateful to the individuals, families and businesses across Utah who trust TAB Bank every day.”

    About TAB Bank
    At TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to making financial success accessible to everyone through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 25 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience. 

    For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.

    Contact Information:
    Trevor Morris
    Director of Marketing
    801-710-6318
    trevor.morris@tabbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Catch the High-Speed Action Again! American Rebel Light Beer NHRA 4-Wide Nationals Replay on FS1 – May 8, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Buckle up, crack open a cold American Rebel Light Beer, and get ready for pure NHRA excitement on the FS1 telecast!

    Nashville, TN, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is excited to announce that racing fans get another chance to witness the adrenaline-pumping excitement of NHRA’s 4-Wide Nationals, presented by American Rebel Light Beer, airing Thursday, May 8, 2025, on FS1’s NHRA Sportsman Series (check your local listings). Total combined television audience viewership was over 700,000 on the original broadcasts and is expected to exceed 900,000 viewers once the audience totals are finalized.

    Following a record-breaking weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s zMAX Dragway (April 25–27, 2025), viewers can relive the historic 1,000th Top Fuel race, featuring four-wide drag racing at speeds over 300 mph – the fastest accelerating machines on the planet! American Rebel Light Beer, America’s fastest growing beer was featured prominently as the title sponsor and is a perfect match with the NHRA and our sponsorship with TSR Nitro Racing (tsrnitro.com).

    What to Expect on FS1 NHRA Sportsman Series Replay:

    • Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
    • Network: FS1
    • Featured Racing: Super Stock, Stock Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, and Top Sportsman

    American Rebel Light Beer: A Bold and Growing Presence in Motorsports

    The official title sponsorship of the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals marked a major milestone for American Rebel Light Beer, reinforcing its event-driven, patriotic brand identity. The beer’s trackside activations, promotional tents, and sampling stations helped expand its presence in North Carolina, fueling racing fans with America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    Marketing Highlights:

    • Original Broadcast Audience: Nearly 700,000 viewers
    • Expected Final Viewership: Up to 1 million, including FS1 Sportsman Series replays
    • NHRA Social Media Reach: Over 9.2 million impressions
    • Live Concert Experience: American Rebel CEO Andy Ross performed a patriotic rock ‘n’ roll show between Nitro Qualifying Sessions

    Don’t Miss the Replay and look for the American Rebel Light Funny Car driven by Matt Hagan and the American Rebel Light Pro Stock Motorcycle driven by John Hall. Tune in Thursday, May 8, 2025, on FS1, and experience the raw horsepower, side-by-side battles, and all-American racing energy of NHRA’s Sportsman Series, powered by American Rebel Light Beer.

    American Rebel Light Funny Car

    The American Rebel Light Funny Car, driven by four-time NHRA Funny Car champion Matt Hagan, is a high-horsepower, American-made beast that embodies the bold, patriotic spirit of American Rebel Light Beer.

    Car Specs & Performance:

    • Supercharged Hemi engine, pushing over 11,000 horsepower
    • Capable of 330+ MPH in under 4 seconds
    • Patriotic design wrap, featuring American Rebel Light Beer’s bold branding
    • Drew massive fan engagement with trackside meet & greets, beer promotions, and live music from American Rebel CEO Andy Ross

    With Matt Hagan behind the wheel, the American Rebel Light Funny Car isn’t just a race car—it’s a high-speed symbol of freedom, power, and unapologetic American pride just like American Rebel Light Beer.

    Fast, fearless, and fueled by the spirit of American Rebel Light Beer—this Funny Car is built to win!

    American Rebel Light Pro Stock Motorcycle

    The American Rebel Pro Stock Motorcycle, piloted by John Hall, is a high-performance, all-American machine built for speed, power, and precision on the NHRA drag racing circuit.

    Bike Specs & Performance:

    • V-Twin engine, delivering high-horsepower acceleration
    • Capable of 6-second quarter-mile runs at speeds exceeding 200 mph
    • Wrapped in the American Rebel Light Beer brand symbolizing bold, stand-your-ground energy

    NHRA Sportsman Series

    • The NHRA Sportsman Series on FS1 features Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series events, showcasing amateur and semi-professional racers competing in various sportsman-level categories. These races include Super Stock, Stock Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, and Top Sportsman, among others.
    • FS1 and FS2 air NHRA Sportsman Series events throughout the season, often as part of NHRA national event weekends. The broadcasts highlight grassroots drag racing, giving fans a look at up-and-coming drivers and regional competitors.
    • For the 2025 season, FS1 is scheduled to air multiple NHRA Sportsman Series events.

    About American Rebel Light:

    American Rebel Light is more than just a beer—it’s a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for every occasion.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its sponsorship of the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals, visit American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals | Events | Charlotte Motor Speedway or follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer

    Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida and Indiana and is adding new distributors and territories regularly. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit americanrebelbeer.com or follow us on our social media platforms.

    Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a domestic premium light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com

    American Rebel Beverages, LLC
    Todd Porter, President
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of a launch party, actual launch timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contact:
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com
    info@americanrebel.com

    For more details on American Rebel Light Beer and upcoming events, visit www.AmericanRebelBeer.com or follow @AmericanRebelBeer on social media.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Brag House Holdings, Inc. Files Form 10-K and Reaffirms Strategic Vision for Gen Z Engagement Through Gaming

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brag House Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TBH) (“Brag House” or the “Company”), a media-tech company at the intersection of gaming, college sports, and digital brand engagement, today announced the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

    The Company reaffirmed its confidence in the execution of its strategic plan to redefine digital engagement for casual college gamers and brands seeking to connect with the Gen Z demographic. As outlined in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Brag House continues to develop a first-of-its-kind digital platform where casual college gamers can compete, support their schools, engage in spirited banter, and win prizes in a safe, inclusive environment.

    “We are creating more than a platform—we are building a new sports medium,” said Lavell Juan Malloy II, CEO and Co-Founder of Brag House. “By merging gameplay with school spirit, our student-led tournaments, proprietary Bragging Functionality, and interactive experiences offer Gen Z an entirely new way to engage with college rivalries.”

    The Company highlighted its landmark strategic partnership with Learfield, which launched in April 2025 in collaboration with Florida Gators Athletics. The partnership represents a significant revenue-generating opportunity and marks the first step in a nationwide rollout designed to scale across Learfield’s network of over 200 collegiate institutions.

    The Company reaffirmed its strategic focus by highlighting the launch of a landmark initiative with Florida Gators Athletics and Learfield’s Florida Gators Sports Properties, as announced in its April 28, 2025 press release titled “Brag House, Florida Gators Athletics, and Learfield Announce Strategic Partnership to Create New Digital Sports Medium for Gen Z.” This innovative collaboration introduces a new digital sports medium for Gen Z—merging school spirit, gaming, and live sports into immersive experiences, as detailed below.

    The debut activation, known as the Brag Gator Gauntlet, kicks off in May 2025 at the University of Florida. This flagship series introduces:

    • Live and digital gaming activations aligned with real-world sporting events;
    • NIL-integrated content featuring student-athletes to amplify authenticity and school pride;
    • Branded loyalty tokens and cross-channel sponsorship opportunities across digital and on-campus platforms.

    By uniting Brag House’s gamified platform with Learfield’s nationwide network of collegiate institutions, this initiative redefines how fans and students engage with college sports. It also opens up high-impact, measurable opportunities for brands to reach Gen Z through student-led tournaments, influencer-driven campaigns, and serialized content. The Company believes this model will generate high-ROI advertising opportunities and serve as a foundation for future data-driven insights, enabling brands to engage Gen Z with greater precision, authenticity, and scale.

    “Our development and marketing strategy is laser-focused on high-impact, revenue-producing milestones,” added Malloy. “We are investing strategically in infrastructure while maintaining disciplined cost controls expected of a public company.”

    The Company’s near-term strategic goals include:

    • Scaling Learfield-based activations across multiple universities;
    • Deploying digital rewards through Loyalty Tokens and Bragging Functionality;
    • Advancing key platform technology modules to operational beta;
    • Leveraging proprietary data for brand-focused SaaS revenue generation.

    Brag House remains confident in its long-term growth trajectory and will continue providing shareholders with updates as key milestones are reached.

    About Brag House
    Brag House is a leading media technology gaming platform dedicated to transforming casual college gaming into a vibrant, community-driven experience. By seamlessly merging gaming, social interaction, and cutting-edge technology, the Company provides an inclusive and engaging environment for casual gamers while enabling brands to authentically connect with the influential Gen Z demographic. The platform offers live-streaming capabilities, gamification features, and custom tournament services, fostering meaningful engagement between users and brands. For more information, please visit www.braghouse.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements in this press release, include, but are not limited to statements relating to the ability to generate revenue from strategic partnership with Learfield; the ability to generate any revenue, return on investment, or any specific outcomes related to scheduled or unscheduled activations or immersive experiences; the ability to deliver anticipated platform growth, including through anticipated development roadmap or scalable model; the timeliness of any anticipated beta versions; the ability to generate revenue from anonymized behavioral insights or other proprietary data; the effectiveness of marketing strategies and strategic investments on revenue; the availability or value of any digital rewards and functionality; the feasibility of near-term strategic goals; or the impact on growth of near or long-term trajectories. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “potential,” “continue,” “assumption” or “judgment” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

    Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable when made, the Company cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. There are a number of important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated by the Company’s forward-looking statements, which include, but are not limited to: the Company’s history of recurring losses and anticipated expenditures raises substantial doubts about its ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s loss of or a substantial reduction in activity by one or more of its largest clients, vendors and/or sponsors could materially and adversely affect its business, financial condition and results of operations; the Company’s revenue model may not remain effective, and the Company cannot guarantee that its future monetization strategies will be successfully implemented or generate sustainable revenues and profit; technology changes rapidly in the Company’s business and if it fails to anticipate or successfully implement new technologies or adopt new business strategies, technologies or methods, the quality, timeliness and competitiveness of the Company’s amateur tournaments or competitions may suffer; the Company relies on information technology and other systems and platforms, and any failures, errors, defects or disruptions in the Company’s systems or platforms could diminish its brand and reputation, subject it to liability, disrupt its business, affect its ability to scale its technical infrastructure and adversely affect its operating results and growth prospects..

    Additional factors include those described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, including under the captions “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and “Business,” in the Company’s subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, including under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and in our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    A forward-looking statement is neither a prediction nor a guarantee of future events or circumstances. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Unless required by federal securities laws, the Company assumes no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated, to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the statements are made.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Adele Carey
    VP, Investor Relations
    ir@thebraghouse.com

    Media Contact:
    Fatema Bhabrawala
    Director of Media Relations
    fbhabrawala@allianceadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Caliber Receives Design Review Approval for PURE Pickleball & Padel Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caliber (NASDAQ: CWD), a real estate investor, developer, and manager, today announced that its joint venture development, PURE Pickleball & Padel™ has gained Design Review approval from the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) Planning Department. This approval positions the project to seek a building permit once final construction documents are complete, with a planned ground-breaking shortly after receiving the permit.

    PURE Pickleball & Padel™ is developing an 11+ acre site in the Riverwalk Development Project located in the Talking Stick Entertainment District, a 100-acre site in the SRPMIC adjacent to Scottsdale. PURE will be a world-class pickleball and padel facility and seeks to claim the title of the largest indoor pickleball and padel facility in the world. The 196,726 square feet state-of-the-art facility will boast a 1,200-seat pro arena, 48 indoor courts (40 pickleball, 8 padel), sports performance and recovery fitness center by HonorHealth, restaurant and rooftop bar, pro shop, locker rooms and spa, special event spaces, childcare and other amenities.

    Chris Loeffler, CEO of Caliber, said, “We are grateful to the SRPMIC team for their thoughtful review and approval of this project. Collaboration with the SRPMIC has been instrumental throughout the design review process which has brought an elevated design and uniqueness to the project.”

    Kevin J. Berk, Co-Founder & CEO of PURE, said, “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the SRPMIC for believing in and supporting our vision. I’m deeply grateful to all the incredible teams contributing to this project—your passion, dedication, and commitment to bringing our first facility to life inspires me every day.”

    With the approval of the use and design, the PURE project will now focus on the next phase of development, the completion of construction documents and the approval of a final building permit. This approval also positions Caliber to formally enter the debt markets to finalize its sourcing of construction financing and puts a clear timeline in place for investors funding the equity into the project’s private offering.

    Unique to this project, Caliber created the [insert official fundco offering name here], a single asset offering designed to invest in the real estate, land sublease, and business operations of PURE. The offering allows for direct investment from accredited investors as well as qualified opportunity zone funds (QOFs) seeking to allocate capital to a potentially attractive qualified opportunity zone business (QOZB). Caliber has designed the offering for broad participation, seeking Pickleball & Padel enthusiasts who are looking for exposure to the two fastest growing sports in the United States and the World.

    For more information on the project, visit Caliber’s website.

    About Caliber (CaliberCos Inc.)

    With over $2.9 billion in Managed Assets, Caliber’s 16-year track record of managing and developing real estate is built on a singular goal: to make money in all market conditions, specializing in hospitality, multi-family residential, and multi-tenant industrial. Our growth is fueled by performance and a key competitive advantage: we invest in projects, strategies, and geographies that global real estate institutions often overlook. Integral to this advantage is our in-house shared services group, which gives Caliber greater control over our real estate and enhanced visibility into future investment opportunities. There are multiple ways to participate in Caliber’s success: invest in Nasdaq-listed CaliberCos Inc. and/or invest directly in our Private Funds.

    About PURE Pickleball & Padel
    PURE Pickleball & Padel has partnered with Caliber to build the world’s largest indoor pickleball & Padel facility and pro arena in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a target opening date of late 2026. The 196,726 square feet state-of-the-art facility will boast 48 indoor courts (40 Pickleball and 8 Padel), a 1,200-seat pro arena, along with country club level amenities that include a restaurant and bar, retail pro shop, gym, recovery spaces, VIP lounge, office space, childcare and teen room. PURE is a member-focused, program-driven concept that will connect the two fastest growing sports in the world with the Scottsdale community across all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. With an estimated 800,000 visits annually, the facility plans to host the largest pickleball/padel tournaments in the world.

    About the Talking Stick Entertainment District
    The Talking Stick Entertainment District is a dynamic area for culture, shopping, dining and entertainment, conveniently located within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Located at the Pima-101 Freeway and Talking Stick Way, just 20 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport, Talking Stick is home to Talking Stick Resort, Talking Stick Golf Club, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, The Pavilions at Talking Stick, Arizona Boardwalk at Talking Stick and many more entertainment and hospitality options.

    About the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
    The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) is represented by two distinct Native American tribes; the Akimel O’odham (River People), more commonly known as the Pima and the Xalychidom Piipaash (People Who Live Toward the Water) commonly known as the Maricopa; both share the same cultural values but maintain their unique traditions. Today, more than 11,000 individuals are enrolled Salt River tribal members. The SRPMIC is bordered by Tempe, Fountain Hills and Mesa and shares a Scottsdale address. The Community owns and operates several successful enterprises including Salt River Materials Group and Saddleback Communication and hospitality enterprises: Talking Stick Resort, Talking Stick Golf Club and Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, all within the Talking Stick Entertainment District, on the northern part of the Community. The culture and the history of the people is an important story to tell and have been interwoven at many of the destination amenities through interior art, building design and landscape.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the final prospectus related to the Company’s public offering filed with the SEC and other reports filed with the SEC thereafter. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    CONTACTS:
    Caliber Investor Relations:
    Ilya Grozovsky
    +1 480-214-1915
    Ilya@CaliberCo.com

    PURE Pickleball & Padel
    Kevin J. Berk – Co-Founder & CEO
    +1 480-861-7474
    Kevin@purepickleball.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: StepStone Group to Announce Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2025 Results on May 22, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — StepStone Group Inc. (Nasdaq: STEP) today announced that the Company will release its results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, after the market closes on Thursday, May 22, 2025.

    Webcast and Earnings Conference Call

    Management will host a webcast and conference call on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 5:00 pm ET to discuss the Company’s results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. The webcast will be made available on the Shareholders section of the Company’s website at https://shareholders.stepstonegroup.com. To listen to a live broadcast, go to the site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to register. A replay will also be available on the shareholders website approximately two hours after the conclusion of the event.

    To join as a live participant in the question and answer portion of the call, participants must register at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI83b497f55a944def8cfadab7f935822b.

    Upon registering you will receive the dial-in number and a PIN to join the call as well as an email confirmation with the details.

    About StepStone

    StepStone Group Inc. (Nasdaq: STEP) is a global private markets investment firm focused on providing customized investment solutions and advisory and data services to its clients. As of December 31, 2024, StepStone was responsible for approximately $698 billion of total capital, including $179 billion of assets under management. StepStone’s clients include some of the world’s largest public and private defined benefit and defined contribution pension funds, sovereign wealth funds and insurance companies, as well as prominent endowments, foundations, family offices and private wealth clients, which include high-net-worth and mass affluent individuals. StepStone partners with its clients to develop and build private markets portfolios designed to meet their specific objectives across the private equity, infrastructure, private debt and real estate asset classes.

    Contacts

    Shareholder Relations:
    Seth Weiss
    shareholders@stepstonegroup.com
    1-212-351-6106

    Media:
    Brian Ruby / Chris Gillick / Matt Lettiero, ICR
    StepStonePR@icrinc.com
    1-203-682-8268

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: /Economic Review/ New Professions Fuel China’s Booming Cultural and Tourism Sector

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    CHANGCHUN, May 8 (Xinhua) — As dawn broke over Mount Taishan in east China’s Shandong Province, 26-year-old Wang Yang packed his backpack with essentials such as a first aid kit, trekking poles and sugar candies to replenish his energy.

    He is preparing to lead a family of five on a six-hour climb to the summit, his seventh tour group over the five-day May Day weekend that ended Monday.

    Wang Yang is part of a growing trend of “climbing guides” – people who keep company as they explore China’s scenic beauty spots. The new profession, which attracts students, mountaineering enthusiasts and guesthouse owners, offers personalized services such as route planning, photography and even “encouraging verbal therapy” to hikers along the way.

    Charging service fees ranging from 400 to 1,500 yuan (US$55 to US$208) depending on the difficulty of the route, some such guides manage to earn up to 30,000 yuan a month.

    The emergence of the new profession reflects a broader boom in tourism. For example, in the first quarter of 2025, Taishan was visited 1.27 million times, up 12.6 percent year-on-year. In 2023 and 2024, the mountain was visited more than 8 million times annually.

    “The move towards personalized and specialized services also reflects a significant increase in consumer demand,” said Wang Yang, who, thanks to his newfound knowledge of emergency medical care, was able to help revive a tourist suffering from hypoglycemia.

    About 1,000 kilometers away in northeast China’s Jilin Province, 50-year-old Yu Wei sat in a ski resort cabin, studying a thick stack of work notes. A technician by training, he played a key role in developing China’s first national standards for “ski patrol rescuers,” a newly recognized national profession.

    When Yu Wei entered the industry in 1995, China’s ski resorts relied on equipment donated by foreign countries and had few active holidaymakers. But that all changed after Beijing won the 2022 Winter Olympics in 2015, and ski visits to the country’s ski slopes increased to 234 million in 2024-25.

    “Now that 70 percent of skiers are snowboarding and trying difficult tricks, rescue work requires new skills,” said Yu Wei, whose team has developed protocols such as the “18-minute golden patrol cycle” to meet the changing demands of the sport.

    The emergence of new roles in the tourism industry, from food reviewers to sports technicians, reflects broader changes in society. Song Zhiqiang, a popular content creator from Yanbian Korean Autonomous Region (Jilin Province, northeast China), has turned food vlogging into a powerful marketing tool, increasing local sales and consumption by more than 10 million yuan. Industry data shows that social media influencers like Song Zhiqiang will help the country’s entrepreneurs earn 133.3 billion yuan in 2024.

    Since 2019, China has officially recognized 93 new occupations, with the total number of “new economy” workers reaching 84 million people, accounting for 21 percent of the country’s total workforce.

    “These occupations are not just jobs; they are indicators of rising consumption levels,” said Zhou Guangxu, an associate professor at the Institute of Labor Affairs at Renmin University of China. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neag School Class of 2025 Student Profile: Nathan Kim

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.


    Major:     BS, Sport Management
    Hometown: North Wales, Pennsylvania

    Q: Why did you choose UConn?

    A: Even though UConn is out-of-state for me, I felt drawn to it because of the strength of the program and the unique opportunities it offered. After touring the campus, I just couldn’t say no. It had that true college-town feel, which was exactly what I wanted. Unlike city schools, where you’re walking alongside people from all walks of life, UConn felt like a tight-knit community. Everywhere I went, I’d run into students just like me, and that sense of connection was enough for me.

    Q: What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

    A: I’m a sport management major, and I’ve known I have wanted to be in this field since high school. UConn, having one of the top programs in the country, made the decision easy. To me, sports are more than just games; they’re a powerful, universal language. They give people a way to express themselves without saying a word. My goal has always been to help others and combining that with my love and passion for sports gave me the perfect path forward: using sports as a tool to make a positive impact in the world.

    Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

    A: Man… choosing just one professor feels impossible. I’ve been lucky to have some amazing mentors. But if I had to shout someone out, it’s Dr. Chen. He is my professor and my advisor, and he went above and beyond by agreeing to supervise a club I started at UConn. He’s been consistently supportive, both academically and personally. We’ve had countless run-ins on campus, whether it’s at the gym or just walking around, and every time, it led to a funny or motivational chat I’ll always remember.

    Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

    A: I was the president of KSA (Korean Student Association) and founded and served as president of GIFT (Guys in Fitness Training). On the job side, I worked briefly as a tour guide and was also part of the athletic operations team for UConn’s sports programs. Getting involved in all these different spaces gave me the chance to meet incredible people and build lasting relationships. Get involved everywhere as much as you can.

    Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

    A: I was never bored. Not once. People love to say college towns don’t have much going on, but UConn proved them all wrong. If anything, there was too much to do. Even after four years, I feel like I barely scratched the surface of everything this place has to offer.

    Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

    A: I plan to continue working in the sports industry. I’ve been fortunate enough to intern with a few teams, and I’m excited to explore roles in sponsorships and partnerships. Long-term, I want to build something of my own. Something rooted in sports and driven by a bigger purpose. My dream is to make a difference while doing what I love.

    Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

    A: UConn taught me how to be independent and thrive on my own. Sure, it’s fun to be surrounded by friends, go to games together, and eat at the dining halls. But there were also those moments when I had to stand on my own. Those moments helped me figure out who I am, what I value, and the kind of people I want around me. Thanks to the support of my professors, advisors, and friends, I’ve learned a lot about life and about myself.

    UConn taught me how to be independent and thrive on my own. &#8212 Nathan Kim

    Q: Any advice for incoming students?

    A: Come in knowing your “why” and be proud of it. Don’t feel like you need to fit into a mold. UConn has so many clubs, organizations, and communities that you will find your people. Your journey is your own, and that’s what makes it special. Be confident in your path, even if it looks different from everyone else’s.

    Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

    A: Okay, I know the default answer is “go to a sporting game,” yes, you should definitely do that, but I want to give you a different take: use the Rec Center. Whether it’s group fitness classes, pickup sports, or just hanging out, the Rec Center is a hub of energy and good vibes. Even if you’re not super into fitness, it’s a great way to meet people and stay active. Honestly, it’s one of the gems of campus life, and I definitely took this for granted. It’s honestly one of the things I will miss the most.

    Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

    A: A husky. No doubt. Every time I see one, I instantly think of UConn. It’s more than just a mascot here. It’s part of who we are. Honestly, I might even get a husky one day.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neag School Class of 2025 Student Profile: Alexis Hastings

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.


    Major:     BS, Sport Management
    Hometown: Holly Springs, North Carolina

    Q: Why did you choose UConn?

    A: I committed to come to UConn without ever stepping foot on campus. I had a virtual visit, and although the campus is beautiful with state-of-the-art athletic facilities, the culture was most captivating. UConn had exactly what I was looking for and more. From an academic standpoint, it had the major that I was looking for. From an athletics standpoint, I valued the desire to bring a softball championship back to Storrs and honor its great history. In my first conversation with the head coach, I knew immediately that she cared about recruiting great people as we talked about everything other than softball. Not only did I want to play at a high level while earning a degree, but I wanted to be a coach in becoming the best player and person I could be.

    Q: What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

    A: Sport Management. What drew me to the program was their mission statement. “Our mission is to graduate scholar-practitioners and researchers who have the knowledge, skills, and values to lead the sports industry in the 21st century and who envision sport as a vehicle for positive social outcomes.” Sport was a big part of my development, and I wanted to be a part of and learn from the best of the best, as UConn Athletics has a rich history of competitive excellence.

    Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

    A: My favorite class was Sport-Based Youth Development, taught by Justin Evanovich. Part of this course is partnered with UConn Husky Nutrition and Sport, which is a unified approach to addressing state-level SNAP-Ed goals and objectives while leveraging the strengths and expertise of each agency and honoring Husky Nutrition and Sport’s core values: Relevancy, Relationships, and Representation.

    Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

    A: Captain of the UConn softball team; Athletes in Action, a Christian ministry on campus that serves athletes in their walk with Christ; Goal line project, supports the academic and personal development of elementary and middle school students in the surrounding communities; Team IMPACT matches children facing serious illness and disability with college sports teams, creating a long-term, life-changing experience for everyone involved; alumni committee for the UConn softball team – building a bridge between all those who came before us and laying the foundation of the program; and UConn game day operations – student assistant for game day operations and faculty management.

    Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

    A: How pretty the campus was! Again, I never came on a visit, so when I arrived for the first time, I came through the main entrance by Horsebarn Hill and thought, “What are those cows?!!”

    Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

    A: I will be pursuing a master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs at UConn and working as a graduate assistant for the Office of Institutional Equity/Title IX.

    Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

    A: Professionally, I have had many opportunities to network and grow my skills, as well as attend conferences and forums.

    Professionally, I have had many opportunities to network and grow my skills, as well as attend conferences and forums. &#8212 Alexis Hastings

    Q: Any advice for incoming students?

    A: The time you put into your classes and studies will prepare you for the future. After all, you are spending money on being here. Make the most of it. Get involved, meet so many people, journal your journey, and enjoy every moment because it goes by fast.

    Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

    A: Yoga on Horsebarn Hill, go to the Dairy Bar, watch a UConn softball game, rent a paddleboard from the UConn Rec Center, and go to Mansfield Hollow State Park.

    Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

    A: March Madness and navy blue.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BigCommerce Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BigCommerce Holdings, Inc. (“BigCommerce” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BIGC), an open SaaS, composable ecommerce platform for fast-growing and established B2C and B2B brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors, today announced financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    “Our transformation efforts are leading to encouraging signs of progress, including positive increases in pipeline and leads in the three months ended March 31, 2025,” said Travis Hess, CEO of BigCommerce. “We have acted decisively to transform the Company, brought in top leaders with SaaS and commerce expertise, and invested strategically to strengthen our core offerings for B2B and B2C businesses across all three of our products, BigCommerce, Feedonomics and Makeswift. Reaccelerating growth remains our top priority for the remainder of this year.”

    First Quarter Financial Highlights:

    • Total revenue was $82.4 million, up 3% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • Total annual revenue run-rate (“ARR”) as of March 31, 2025 was $350.8 million, up 3% compared to March 31, 2024.
    • Subscription solutions revenue was $62.1 million, up 2% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • ARR from accounts with at least one enterprise plan (“Enterprise Accounts”) was $263.8 million as of March 31, 2025, up 6% from March 31, 2024.
    • ARR from Enterprise Accounts as a percent of total ARR was 75% as of March 31, 2025, compared to 73% as of March 31, 2024.
    • GAAP gross margin was 79%, compared to 77% in the first quarter of 2024. Non-GAAP gross margin was 80%, compared to 78% in the first quarter of 2024.

    Other Key Business Metrics

    • Number of enterprise accounts was 5,825, down 2% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • Average revenue per account (“ARPA”) of enterprise accounts was $45,290, up 9% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • Revenue in the United States grew by 2% compared to the first quarter of 2024.
    • Revenue in EMEA grew by 8% and revenue in APAC declined by 5% compared to the first quarter of 2024.

    Loss from Operations and Non-GAAP Operating Income (Loss)

    • GAAP loss from operations was ($2.4) million, compared to ($8.2) million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Included in GAAP loss from operations was a restructuring charge of $1.9 million.
    • Non-GAAP operating income was $7.6 million, compared to $3.2 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    Net Income (Loss) and Earnings Per Share

    • GAAP net loss was ($0.4) million, compared to ($6.4) million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Non-GAAP net income was $5.7 million or 7% of revenue, compared to $5.0 million or 6% of revenue in the first quarter of 2024.
    • GAAP basic net loss per share was ($0.00) based on 78.8 million shares of common stock, compared to ($0.08) based on 76.6 million shares of common stock in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Non-GAAP basic net income per share was $0.07 based on 78.8 million shares of common stock, compared to $0.07 based on 76.6 million shares of common stock in the first quarter of 2024.

    Adjusted EBITDA

    • Adjusted EBITDA was $8.8 million, compared to $4.2 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    Cash

    • Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities totaled $121.9 million as of March 31, 2025.
    • For the three months ended March 31, 2025, net cash provided by operating activities was $401 thousand, compared to ($3.4) million used in operating activities for the same period in 2024. We reported free cash flow of ($2.9) million in the three months ended March 31, 2025, which included a one-time charge related to the cash paid for the website domain name.

    Business Highlights:

    Corporate Highlights

    • In February, the Company announced the addition of Rob Walter as its Chief Revenue Officer. Walter is a seasoned revenue leader with 20 years of ecommerce experience leading sales and go-to-market teams at successful companies including Salesforce, Ebay, ChannelAdviser and Amplience.
    • Michelle Suzuki also joined BigCommerce as the Company’s Chief Marketing Officer. Suzuki brings more than 25 years of experience scaling and transforming high-growth companies, including renowned technology companies such as EMC, Ancestry and Ivanti.
    • In April, Vipul Shah joined the Company as its new Chief Product Officer, bringing over two decades of experience building innovative products and business models at PayPal, Google, J.P. Morgan and Wells Fargo. Shah leads product management, product design and product strategy groups across all three of the Company’s products – BigCommerce, Feedonomics and Makeswift.
    • BigCommerce also added SaaS and ecommerce veteran Andrew Norman as senior vice president and general manager for EMEA to lead BigCommerce’s go-to-market strategy in EMEA. He has 25 years’ experience executing international expansion plans for SaaS technology companies, including 15 years’ experience in the ecommerce market.
    • In March, BigCommerce hosted its 2025 Investor Day, where members of the Company’s leadership team discussed the Company’s strategic vision, product offerings, financial performance and long-term growth opportunities, followed by a live Q&A session.

    Product Highlights

    • BigCommerce announced updates to Catalyst, its next generation storefront technology. With one click from the Control Panel, marketers can now launch and design a new store that comes optimized for high performance out of the box, making it so that they no longer have to sacrifice marketing usability for modern technology. Catalyst’s differentiator is its fully integrated marketing-friendly visual editor, Makeswift, which sets a new standard for creating fast, modern ecommerce storefronts without the limits of rigid templates or heavy development costs.
    • The Company unveiled innovative enhancements to its B2B products designed to help sales teams operate more efficiently and streamline processes so they can respond quickly to market demands and focus on growth. These updates, Configure-Price-Quote (CPQ) and Multi-Company Account Hierarchy and Advanced Permissioning, enable faster quote conversion and minimize redundant account management processes so that merchants can respond dynamically to market demands and scale without being bogged down by manual tasks.
    • BigCommerce also announced a three-pronged product launch that strengthens the app-building experience for developers, extending the BigCommerce platform’s overall functionality.

    Customer Highlights

    • Kittery Trading Post, whose Maine brick-and-mortar location has been an outdoor sporting goods destination for over 80 years, migrated from Salesforce Commerce Cloud to BigCommerce with an implementation led by BigCommerce partner Mira Commerce that took them live in three months.
    • Champion Sports, a 60-year-old manufacturer of high-quality sports, fitness and physical education equipment, launched a new B2B store with BigCommerce agency partner MoJo Active and an integration with Sage 100.
    • Crew Clothing, the iconic 30-year-old British casual clothing brand, launched a new B2C storefront for its Ben Sherman brand in the US, featuring integrations with Retail247 and Global-e. The company plans to roll out four more new websites for additional brands throughout the year.
    • EuroOptic, an online retailer specializing in high-quality sporting optics and performance gear, launched a new headless store using Vercel and Makeswift and integrated with Feedonomics, Netsuite and Payment Putty. BigCommerce partner MoJo Active led the implementation, which also uses BigCommerce’s Multi-Storefront functionality.
    • EGO, a UK-based fashion brand specializing in trendy women’s footwear, clothing, and accessories, migrated from Magento to BigCommerce with international stores in Europe, North America and Australia and an additional UK storefront in progress. BigCommerce agency partner TakeFortyTwo assisted Ego’s in-house team with the Multi-Storefront headless implementation hosted by Alokai.

    Partner Highlights

    • In May, BigCommerce announced that Klarna, the AI-powered payments and commerce network, has become a global preferred payments partner. As a global preferred partner, Klarna brings its flexible, interest-free payment options to merchants worldwide, enhancing the shopping experience and driving growth with one single integration.
    • In April, the Company announced the launch of Distributed Ecommerce Hub, a new joint solution with systems integrator and digital commerce agency Silk Commerce. Distributed Ecommerce Hub empowers manufacturers, brands and franchisors to rapidly create and centrally manage branded ecommerce storefronts for their dealer, distributor or franchise networks.
    • In April, Feedonomics announced its new integration with Amazon Vendor Central, expanding its comprehensive solutions for B2B clients and enterprise brands. Feedonomics customers can now tap into Amazon’s powerful fulfillment network, offering shoppers fast and reliable delivery through Prime eligibility.
    • In April, BigCommerce announced discussions regarding a potential expansion of its commercial partnership with Noibu, a leading ecommerce intelligence platform that helps brands detect, prioritize, and resolve revenue-impacting issues while delivering seamless customer experiences. The partnership, if finalized, would reflect the joint value of “curated composability,” enabling brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors of all sizes to leverage best-in-class solutions without the procurement delays or complex integrations.
    • BigCommerce also announced its corporate partnership with the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED), reinforcing BigCommerce’s commitment to driving digital transformation and growth in the electrical distribution industry.
    • The Company also announced a transformational partnership with Pipe17, a leading provider of AI-powered composable order operations. This partnership reimagines how modern merchants manage orders in an increasingly complex digital commerce ecosystem.

    Q2 and 2025 Financial Outlook:

    For the second quarter of 2025, we currently expect:

    • Total revenue between $82.5 million to $83.5 million.
    • Non-GAAP operating income is expected to be between $2.7 million to $3.7 million.

    For the full year 2025, we currently expect:

    • Total revenue between $335.1 million and $351.1 million.
    • Non-GAAP operating income between $16 million and $28 million.

    Our second quarter and 2025 financial outlook is based on a number of assumptions that are subject to change and many of which are outside our control. If actual results vary from these assumptions, our expectations may change. There can be no assurance that we will achieve these results.

    We do not provide guidance for loss from operations , the most directly comparable GAAP measure to Non-GAAP operating income, and similarly cannot provide a reconciliation between its forecasted Non-GAAP operating income and Non-GAAP income per share and these comparable GAAP measures without unreasonable effort due to the unavailability of reliable estimates for certain items. These items are not within our control and may vary greatly between periods and could significantly impact future financial results.

    Conference Call Information

    The financial results and business highlights will be discussed on a conference call and webcast scheduled at 7:00 a.m. CT (8:00 a.m. ET) on Thursday, May 8, 2025. The conference call can be accessed by dialing (833) 634-1254 from the United States and Canada or (412) 317-6012 internationally and requesting to join the “BigCommerce conference call.” The live webcast of the conference call can be accessed from BigCommerce’s investor relations website at http://investors.bigcommerce.com.

    Following the completion of the call through 11:59 p.m. ET on Thursday, May 15, 2025, a telephone replay will be available by dialing (877) 344-7529 from the United States, (855) 669-9658 from Canada or (412) 317-0088 internationally with conference ID 2980116. A webcast replay will also be available at http://investors.bigcommerce.com for 12 months.

    About BigCommerce
    BigCommerce (Nasdaq: BIGC) is a leading open SaaS and composable ecommerce platform that empowers brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors of all sizes to build, innovate and grow their businesses online. BigCommerce provides its customers sophisticated professional-grade functionality, customization and performance with simplicity and ease-of-use. Tens of thousands of B2C and B2B companies across 150 countries and numerous industries rely on BigCommerce, including Coldwater Creek, Harvey Nichols, King Arthur Baking Co., MKM Building Supplies, United Aqua Group and Uplift Desk. For more information, please visit www.bigcommerce.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “outlook,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “can,” “predict,” “potential,” “strategy,” “target,” “explore,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. However, not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements may relate to our market size and growth strategy, our estimated and projected costs, margins, revenue, expenditures and customer and financial growth rates, our Q2 and fiscal 2025 financial outlook, our plans and objectives for future operations, growth, initiatives or strategies. By their nature, these statements are subject to numerous uncertainties and risks, including factors beyond our control, that could cause actual results, performance or achievement to differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. These assumptions, uncertainties and risks include that, among others, our business would be harmed by any decline in new customers, renewals or upgrades, our limited operating history makes it difficult to evaluate our prospects and future results of operations, we operate in competitive markets, we may not be able to sustain our revenue growth rate in the future, our business would be harmed by any significant interruptions, delays or outages in services from our platform or certain social media platforms, and a cybersecurity-related attack, significant data breach or disruption of the information technology systems or networks could negatively affect our business. Additional risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements are included under the caption “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the future quarterly and current reports that we file with the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statements are made and are based on information available to BigCommerce at the time those statements are made and/or management’s good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events. BigCommerce assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, except as required by law.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We have provided in this press release certain financial information that has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). Our management uses these Non-GAAP financial measures internally in analyzing our financial results and believes that use of these Non-GAAP financial measures is useful to investors as an additional tool to evaluate ongoing operating results and trends and in comparing our financial results with other companies in our industry, many of which present similar Non-GAAP financial measures. Non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for comparable financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP and should be read only in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of our historical Non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures has been provided in the financial statement tables included in this press release, and investors are encouraged to review these reconciliations.

    Annual Revenue Run-Rate

    We calculate annual revenue run-rate at the end of each month as the sum of: (1) contractual monthly recurring revenue at the end of the period, which includes platform subscription fees, invoiced growth adjustments, feed management subscription fees, recurring professional services revenue, and other recurring revenue, multiplied by twelve to prospectively annualize recurring revenue, and (2) the sum of the trailing twelve-month non-recurring and variable revenue, which includes one-time partner integrations, one-time fees, payments revenue share, and any other revenue that is non-recurring and variable.

    Enterprise Account Metrics

    To measure the effectiveness of our ability to execute against our growth strategy, we calculate ARR attributable to Enterprise Accounts. We define Enterprise Accounts as accounts with at least one unique Enterprise plan subscription or an enterprise level feed management subscription (collectively “Enterprise Accounts”). These accounts may have more than one Enterprise plan or a combination of Enterprise plans and non-enterprise plans.

    Average Revenue Per Account

    We calculate average revenue per account for accounts in the Enterprise cohort at the end of a period by including customer-billed revenue and an allocation of partner and services revenue, where applicable. We allocate partner revenue, where applicable, primarily based on each customer’s share of GMV processed through that partner’s solution. For partner revenue that is not directly linked to customer usage of a partner’s solution, we allocate such revenue based on each customer’s share of total platform GMV. Each account’s partner revenue allocation is calculated by taking the account’s trailing twelve-month partner revenue, then dividing by twelve to create a monthly average to apply to the applicable period in order to normalize ARPA for seasonality.

    Adjusted EBITDA

    We define Adjusted EBITDA as our net loss, excluding the impact of stock-based compensation expense and related payroll tax costs, amortization of intangible assets, acquisition related costs, restructuring charges, depreciation, gain on convertible notes extinguishment, interest income, interest expense, other expense, and our provision or benefit for income taxes.

    Acquisition related costs include contingent compensation arrangements entered into in connection with acquisitions and achieved earnout related to an acquisition.

    Restructuring charges include severance benefits, right-of-use asset impairments, lease termination gain, software impairments, accelerated depreciation and amortization, and professional services costs.

    Depreciation includes depreciation expenses related to the Company’s fixed assets.

    The most directly comparable GAAP measure is net loss.

    Non-GAAP Operating Income (Loss)

    We define Non-GAAP Operating Income (Loss) as our GAAP Loss from operations, excluding the impact of stock-based compensation expense and related payroll tax costs, amortization of intangible assets, acquisition related costs, and restructuring charges. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is our loss from operations.

    Non-GAAP Net Income (Loss)

    We define Non-GAAP Net Income (Loss) as our GAAP net loss, excluding the impact of stock-based compensation expense and related payroll tax costs, amortization of intangible assets, acquisition related costs, restructuring charges, and gain on convertible notes extinguishment. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is our net loss.

    Non-GAAP Basic and Dilutive Net Income (Loss) per Share

    We define Non-GAAP Basic and Dilutive Net Income (Loss) per Share as our Non-GAAP net income (loss), defined above, divided by our basic and diluted GAAP weighted average shares outstanding. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is our basic net loss per share.

    Free Cash Flow

    We define Free Cash flow as our GAAP cash flow provided by (used in) operating activities less our cash paid for website domain name and GAAP purchases of property, equipment, leasehold improvements and capitalized internal-use software (Capital Expenditures). The most directly comparable GAAP measure is our cash flow provided by (used in) operating activities.

     
    BigCommerce Holdings, Inc.

    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in thousands)
     
        March 31,     December 31,  
        2025     2024  
        (unaudited)        
    Assets            
    Current assets            
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 52,084     $ 88,877  
    Restricted cash     1,164       1,479  
    Marketable securities     68,628       89,283  
    Accounts receivable, net     44,164       48,117  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets, net     18,575       14,641  
    Deferred commissions     8,065       8,822  
    Total current assets     192,680       251,219  
    Property and equipment, net     8,128       9,128  
    Operating lease, right-of-use-assets     7,447       1,993  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets, net of current portion     4,299       3,146  
    Deferred commissions, net of current portion     4,381       5,559  
    Intangible assets, net     17,426       17,317  
    Goodwill     51,927       51,927  
    Total assets   $ 286,288     $ 340,289  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity            
    Current liabilities            
    Accounts payable   $ 7,822     $ 7,018  
    Accrued liabilities     2,760       3,194  
    Deferred revenue     48,658       46,590  
    Operating lease liabilities     2,006       2,438  
    Other liabilities     21,006       28,766  
    Total current liabilities     82,252       88,006  
    Convertible notes     157,788       216,466  
    Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion     6,994       1,680  
    Other liabilities, net of current portion     1,179       768  
    Total liabilities     248,213       306,920  
    Stockholders’ equity            
    Common stock     7       7  
    Additional paid-in capital     659,985       654,905  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income     124       145  
    Accumulated deficit     (622,041 )     (621,688 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     38,075       33,369  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 286,288     $ 340,289  
     
    BigCommerce Holdings, Inc.

    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (in thousands, except per share amounts)
    (unaudited)
     
        For the three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
    Cost of revenue (1)     16,984       18,439  
    Gross profit     65,386       61,921  
    Operating expenses:            
    Sales and marketing(1)     30,366       32,432  
    Research and development(1)     19,206       19,988  
    General and administrative(1)     13,644       14,929  
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,335       2,467  
    Acquisition related costs     333       333  
    Restructuring charges     1,912       0  
    Total operating expenses     67,796       70,149  
    Loss from operations     (2,410 )     (8,228 )
    Gain on convertible note extinguishment     3,931       0  
    Interest income     1,300       3,178  
    Interest expense     (2,543 )     (720 )
    Other expense     (107 )     (332 )
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes     171       (6,102 )
    Provision for income taxes     (524 )     (290 )
    Net loss   $ (353 )   $ (6,392 )
    Basic net loss per share   $ (0.00 )   $ (0.08 )
    Shares used to compute basic net loss per share     78,835       76,626  
     
    (1) Amounts include stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs, as follows:
        For the three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Cost of revenue   $ 746     $ 656  
    Sales and marketing     1,775       1,867  
    Research and development     3,042       3,476  
    General and administrative     (144 )     2,592  
     
    BigCommerce Holdings, Inc.

    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (in thousands)
    (unaudited)
     
      Three months ended March 31,  
      2025     2024  
               
    Cash flows from operating activities          
    Net loss $ (353 )   $ (6,392 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:          
    Depreciation and amortization expense   4,281       3,486  
    Amortization of discount on convertible notes   187       497  
    Amortization of premium on convertible notes   (402 )     0  
    Stock-based compensation expense   5,209       8,388  
    Provision for expected credit losses   930       863  
    Gain on convertible notes extinguishment   (3,931 )     0  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
    Accounts receivable   3,020       (2,588 )
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   (5,084 )     (4,960 )
    Deferred commissions   1,935       211  
    Accounts payable   678       (889 )
    Accrued and other liabilities   (8,137 )     (4,601 )
    Deferred revenue   2,068       2,568  
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   401       (3,417 )
    Cash flows from investing activities:          
    Cash paid for website domain name   (2,444 )     0  
    Purchase of property, equipment, leasehold improvements and capitalized internal-use software   (825 )     (806 )
    Maturity of marketable securities   28,579       29,440  
    Purchase of marketable securities   (7,945 )     (35,565 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   17,365       (6,931 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:          
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options   1,096       974  
    Taxes paid related to net share settlement of stock options   (1,225 )     (1,325 )
    Payment of convertible note issuance costs   (217 )   0  
    Repayment of convertible notes and financing obligation   (54,528 )     (134 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (54,874 )     (485 )
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash   (37,108 )     (10,833 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period   90,356       72,845  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 53,248     $ 62,012  
    Supplemental cash flow information:          
    Cash paid for interest $ 5,685     $ 439  
    Cash paid for taxes $ 220     $ 140  
    Right-of-use asset obtained in exchange for new operating lease liability $ 5,516     $ 0  
    Noncash investing and financing activities:          
    Capital additions, accrued but not paid $ 205     $ 0  
               
     
    BigCommerce Holdings, Inc.

    Disaggregation of Revenue
     
    Disaggregated Revenue:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
    (in thousands)   2025     2024  
    Subscription solutions   $ 62,114     $ 60,959  
    Partner and services     20,256       19,401  
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
     
    Revenue by Geography:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
    (in thousands)   2025     2024  
    Revenue:            
    United States   $ 62,621     $ 61,138  
    EMEA     9,965       9,192  
    APAC     5,925       6,254  
    Rest of World     3,859       3,776  
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
     
    BigCommerce Holdings, Inc

    Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results
    (in thousands, except per share amounts)
    (unaudited)
     
    Reconciliation of loss from operations to Non-GAAP operating income:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    Loss from operations   $ (2,410 )   $ (8,228 )
    Plus:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     5,419       8,591  
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,335       2,467  
    Acquisition related costs     333       333  
    Restructuring charges     1,912       0  
    Non-GAAP operating income   $ 7,589     $ 3,163  
    Non-GAAP operating income as a percentage of revenue     9.2 %     3.9 %
     
    Reconciliation of net loss & basic net loss per share to Non-GAAP net income & Non-GAAP basic and diluted net income per share:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    Net loss   $ (353 )   $ (6,392 )
    Plus:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     5,419       8,591  
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,335       2,467  
    Acquisition related costs     333       333  
    Restructuring charges     1,912       0  
    Gain on convertible notes extinguishment     (3,931 )     0  
    Non-GAAP net income   $ 5,715     $ 4,999  
    Basic net loss per share   $ (0.00 )   $ (0.08 )
    Non-GAAP basic net income per share   $ 0.07     $ 0.07  
    Non-GAAP diluted net income per share   $ 0.07     $ 0.06  
    Shares used to compute basic net loss per share and basic Non-GAAP net income per share     78,835       76,626  
    Shares used to compute diluted Non-GAAP net income per share     80,464       78,521  
    Non-GAAP net income as a percentage of revenue     6.9 %     6.2 %
     
    Reconciliation of net loss to adjusted EBITDA:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    Net loss   $ (353 )   $ (6,392 )
    Plus:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     5,419       8,591  
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,335       2,467  
    Acquisition related costs     333       333  
    Restructuring charges     1,912       0  
    Depreciation     1,244       1,019  
    Gain on convertible notes extinguishment     (3,931 )     0  
    Interest income     (1,300 )     (3,178 )
    Interest expense     2,543       720  
    Other expenses     107       332  
    Provision for income taxes     524       290  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 8,833     $ 4,182  
    Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue     10.7 %     5.2 %
     
     Reconciliation of Cost of revenue to Non-GAAP cost of revenue:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    Cost of revenue   $ 16,984     $ 18,439  
    Less:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     746       656  
    Non-GAAP cost of revenue   $ 16,238     $ 17,783  
    As a percentage of revenue     19.7 %     22.1 %
     
    Reconciliation of Sales and marketing expense to Non-GAAP sales and marketing expense:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    Sales and marketing   $ 30,366     $ 32,432  
    Less:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     1,775       1,867  
    Non-GAAP sales and marketing   $ 28,591     $ 30,565  
    As a percentage of revenue     34.7 %     38.0 %
     
    Reconciliation of Research and development expense to Non-GAAP research and development expense:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    Research and development   $ 19,206     $ 19,988  
    Less:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     3,042       3,476  
    Non-GAAP research and development   $ 16,164     $ 16,512  
    As a percentage of revenue     19.6 %     20.5 %
     
    Reconciliation of General and administrative expense to Non-GAAP general and administrative expense:
     
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Revenue   $ 82,370     $ 80,360  
                 
    General & administrative   $ 13,644     $ 14,929  
    Less:            
    Stock-based compensation expense and associated payroll tax costs     (144 )     2,592  
    Non-GAAP general & administrative   $ 13,788     $ 12,337  
    As a percentage of revenue     16.7 %     15.4 %
     
    Reconciliation of net cash provided by (used in) operating activities to free cash flow:
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    (in thousands)            
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   $ 401     $ (3,417 )
    Cash paid for website domain name     (2,444 )     0  
    Purchase of property, equipment, leasehold improvements and capitalized internal-use software     (825 )     (806 )
    Free cash flow   $ (2,868 )   $ (4,223 )

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga hefur ákveðið að efna til útboðs á skuldabréfaflokkunum LSS 39 0303 og LSS151155 mánudaginn 12. maí 2025. Lánasjóðurinn stefnir að því að taka tilboðum að fjárhæð 500 til 1.500 milljónir króna að nafnvirði í skuldabréfaflokknum LSS151155 og að fjárhæð 500 til 1.500 milljónir króna að nafnvirði í skuldabréfaflokknum LSS 39 0303. Lánasjóðurinn áskilur sér rétt til að hækka og lækka útboðsfjárhæð útboðsins, taka hvaða tilboði sem er eða hafna þeim öllum. Lánasjóðurinn hefur boðið aðalmiðlurum sjóðsins Arion banka, Íslandsbanka, Kviku banka, Landsbankanum og Fossum fjárfestingabanka að taka þátt í útboðinu. 

    Óskað er eftir tilboðum í samræmi við eftirfarandi lýsingu:

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

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

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

    Tilboð skulu berast fyrir kl. 16:00, mánudaginn 12. maí 2025 til Lánasjóðs sveitarfélaga á netfangið utbod@lanasjodur.is

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Ontario: 7Bit Casino Voted no 1 for Its Extensive Crypto Game Selection and Generous Bonuses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 7Bit Casino is quickly becoming a go-to pick for Ontario players in 2025, especially those who love using crypto. With thousands of games, smooth and flexible payment options, and a user-friendly design, it’s built for a fun, stress-free experience. Whether you’re spinning the latest slots, hitting the live dealer tables, or chasing big jackpots, 7Bit Casino has you covered. Plus, new players get a head start with an exclusive welcome bonus to kick things off right.

    ✅PLAY AT 7BIT CASINO – CLAIM EXCLUSIVE CRYPTO BONUSES AND START WINNING!

    This offer provides up to a 325% bonus up to CAD 10,800 plus 250 Free Spins across your first four deposits, giving you a significant boost to explore the platform. As a leading anonymous online casino, 7Bit Casino boasts over 7,000 real money games, lightning-fast payouts, and a no-KYC policy that prioritizes player privacy. From the best online pokies to immersive live dealer games and comprehensive sports betting options, 7Bit Casino is the ultimate destination among the best online casinos in Ontario.

    A Comprehensive Review of the Best Online Casinos in Ontario

    The online gambling landscape in Ontario is thriving, with new online casinos launching regularly to compete with industry stalwarts. However, not all platforms deliver the quality, security, and excitement players expect. To identify the best online casinos Ontario has to offer, a team of iGaming specialists conducted an exhaustive review, focusing on key criteria that matter most to players. These include:

    Criteria Description
    License Verifies operation under a reputable regulatory authority.
    Fairness Ensures games are audited for randomness and fairness by independent firms.
    Quality of Games Evaluates the variety, quality, and reputation of game providers.
    Bonuses and Promotions Assesses the generosity, fairness, and transparency of bonus terms.
    Payment Methods Checks speed, variety, and efficiency of deposit and withdrawal options.
    Online Security Confirms robust measures to protect player data and transactions.
    Mobile Experience Reviews usability, performance, and accessibility on mobile devices.
    Sportsbook Quality Evaluate the range, odds, and features of sports betting options.
    KYC Examines the ease and necessity of verification processes.
    Deposit/Withdrawal Limits Assess the flexibility and suitability of financial limits for all players.
    Customer Support Gauge responsiveness, professionalism, and availability of support channels.

    After analyzing dozens of platforms, 7Bit Casino emerged as the clear winner, securing its title as the best online casino in Ontario 2025. Its innovative approach, combining cryptocurrency support, a vast game library, and player-friendly policies, sets it apart from the competition.

    Why 7Bit Casino is the #1 Choice Among the Best Online Casinos in Ontario

    Operated by Dama N.V., a well-respected name in the iGaming industry, 7Bit Casino excels across all evaluation criteria, offering a seamless and rewarding experience that surpasses competitors. Its focus on cryptocurrency, privacy, and entertainment makes it a standout among new online casinos.

    Here’s a detailed breakdown of its strengths:

    1. License

    7Bit Casino operates under a Curacao iGaming License (Curacao eGaming), a globally recognized authority that enforces strict standards for fairness, security, and responsible gaming. Unlike some competitors with less reputable licenses, such as those from lesser-known jurisdictions, 7Bit’s Curacao certification provides players with confidence in its legitimacy and operational integrity. This regulatory oversight ensures that the casino adheres to industry best practices, making it a trusted choice among the best online casinos in Ontario.

    2. Fairness

    All games at 7Bit Casino are rigorously audited by independent third-party firms like eCOGRA and iTech Labs, ensuring randomness and fairness. This commitment to transparency surpasses competitors like Spin Casino, which has faced occasional scrutiny over game fairness.

    The use of provably fair mechanisms for certain games allows players to verify outcomes independently, a feature not widely offered by platforms like Betway. For players seeking the best online casinos in Ontario, 7Bit’s dedication to fair play is a significant advantage.

    3. Games Offered in 7Bit Casino

    Boasting over 7,000 real money games from nearly 100 top-tier providers, including NetEnt, Evolution, Microgaming, Habanero, BGaming, and Play’n GO, 7Bit Casino offers Ontario’s most diverse and high-quality game library. Competitors like Jackpot City (approximately 500 games) and LeoVegas (2,000+ games) fall short in both variety and volume. The selection includes:

    • Slots: Classics like Starburst, progressive jackpots like Mega Moolah, and themed titles like Book of Dead and Gonzo’s Quest. With thousands of slots, players seeking the best online pokies are spoiled for choice.
    • Table Games: Multiple variants of Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, and Baccarat, including European and American Roulette, and unique options like Multi-Hand Blackjack.
    • Live Dealer Games: High-definition streams of Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, and game shows like Crazy Time, powered by Evolution Gaming.
    • Jackpot Games: Opportunities for life-changing wins with titles like Hall of Gods and Divine Fortune.
    • Video Poker: Strategic games like Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Aces & Faces.
    • Instant Wins: Quick-play options like scratch cards and keno for fast-paced fun.

    This extensive variety ensures that players, from casual gamers to high rollers, find entertainment tailored to their preferences, making 7Bit a leader among brand-new online casinos.

    4. Bonuses and Promotions

    7Bit Casino is celebrated for its generous and player-friendly bonuses, outpacing competitors like Betway, which offers a smaller welcome package with higher wagering requirements. Its promotions are designed to maximize value and enhance the gaming experience:

    • Welcome Bonus: New players can claim up to a 325% bonus up to CAD 10,800 plus 250 Free Spins across four deposits:
      • 1st Deposit: 100% bonus + 100 Free Spins
      • 2nd Deposit: 75% bonus + 100 Free Spins
      • 3rd Deposit: 50% bonus
      • 4th Deposit: 100% bonus + 50 Free Spins
      • New Game Offer: 45 FS
      • Telegram Offer: 50 FS
      • Monday Offer: 25% + 50 FS
      • Wednesday Offer: Up to 100 Free Spins
      • Weekly Cashback: Up to 20%
      • Telegram Friday Offer: 111 Free Spins
      • Telegram Sunday Offer: 66 Free Spins
    • Tournaments: Regular events with prize pools up to $50,000, offering cash prizes and free spins.
      • Titans` Arena: $8000
      • Platipus Rush: €2000
      • 10 Years of Platipus: € 100,000
      • Lucky Spin: $1500 + 1500 Free Spins

    Unlike competitors with restrictive terms, 7Bit’s bonuses come with low wagering requirements, making it easier to convert bonuses into real winnings. This generosity cements its position among the best online casinos Ontario.

    ✅ENJOY THE WELCOME BONUS OFFER OF 325% UP TO 10800 CAD AND 250 FREE SPINS

    5. Payment Methods and Banking Experience
    7Bit Casino supports a wide array of payment methods, offering flexibility and speed that surpass competitors like Spin Casino, which lacks cryptocurrency options:

    • Fiat Options: VISA, MasterCard, Neosurf, eZeeWallet, AstroPay, Online Banking.
    • Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Tether USDT, Bitcoin Cash, and more.

    Deposits are instant across all methods, while withdrawals are processed swiftly, often within 24 hours for cryptocurrencies and 1-3 days for fiat options. This is significantly faster than LeoVegas’s 1-5 day withdrawal times. The absence of fees on crypto transactions enhances cost-effectiveness, making 7Bit a top Pay ID casino and a leader among the best online casinos in Ontario. Players can also benefit from low minimum deposit thresholds, starting at $10 for most methods, ensuring accessibility for all budgets.

    6. Online Security

    Security is a cornerstone of 7Bit Casino’s operations. The platform employs military-grade SSL encryption to protect player data and financial transactions, complemented by secure servers and a clean record of no data breaches.

    Compared to competitors like Betway, which faced minor security concerns in 2023, 7Bit’s robust framework ensures a safe gaming environment. Regular security audits and compliance with Curacao regulations further enhance trust, making it a reliable choice among the best online casinos Ontario.

    7. Mobile Experience

    In today’s fast-paced world, mobile compatibility is essential for any online casino Ontario player. 7Bit Casino excels with a fully optimized mobile website that performs seamlessly on all browsers and devices, including Android and iOS.

    Unlike Jackpot City, which relies on a downloadable app, 7Bit requires no downloads, offering instant access to its full game library, account management, and bonus claims. The mobile platform maintains high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and intuitive navigation, ensuring a consistent experience across devices.

    8. Quality of Sportsbook

    While competitors like LeoVegas emphasize sports betting, 7Bit Casino offers a competitive sportsbook covering over 35 sports and esports, including football, basketball, tennis, hockey, and emerging markets like eSports (e.g., Dota 2, CS: GO). Features include live betting, competitive odds, and exclusive bonuses like free bets and cashback. This versatility makes 7Bit a well-rounded option among new online casinos, catering to players who enjoy both casino games and sports wagering.

    9. KYC (Know Your Customer)

    As an anonymous online casino, 7Bit Casino eliminates KYC requirements, unlike Jackpot City and Betway, which mandate extensive verification processes. This privacy-focused approach allows players to sign up and play without submitting personal documents, appealing to those who value discretion. The no-KYC policy is a significant differentiator, setting 7Bit apart among the best online casinos in Ontario.

    10. Customer Support Service

    7Bit Casino provides 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, outshining competitors like Betway, which lacks phone support:

    • Live Chat: Instant assistance directly on the website.
    • Email: support@7bit.com for detailed inquiries.

    The professional support team resolves issues quickly, from account setup to payment queries, enhancing the player experience and reinforcing 7Bit’s status as a top online casino in Ontario.

    How to Get Started at 7Bit Casino

    Joining 7Bit Casino is quick and straightforward, even for newcomers to online casinos Ontario:

    1. Visit the Website: Go to 7Bit Casino on your desktop or mobile device.
    2. Sign Up: Enter your email, choose a password, and select your preferred currency. No KYC verification is required, ensuring a hassle-free start.
    3. Make a Deposit: Choose from fiat or crypto options to fund your account instantly. Minimum deposits start at $10.
    4. Claim Your Welcome Bonus: Activate the 325% bonus plus 250 Free Spins across your first four deposits.
    5. Start Playing: Explore the 7,000+ game library, from pokies to live dealer games, and enjoy your gaming journey.

    The intuitive interface and mobile compatibility make it easy to navigate and enjoy, whether you’re at home or on the go.

    ✅REGISTER AT 7BIT – DIVE INTO A WORLD OF CRYPTO FUN AND WINNING!

    VIP Programs and Rewards: Loyalty Pays Off

    7Bit Casino rewards loyalty through a tiered VIP program, offering escalating benefits as players climb levels:

    • Higher cashback percentages (up to 20%).
    • Dedicated account managers for personalized support.
    • Exclusive tournaments and quests with rare rewards.
    • Personalized bonuses tailored to player preferences.

    Compared to LeoVegas’s less structured loyalty program, 7Bit’s system provides tangible incentives, enhancing its appeal among new online casinos. Regular players also gain access to special events and limited-time offers, ensuring long-term engagement.

    Security and Trust: A Safe Gaming Environment

    Security is paramount at 7Bit Casino, which uses military-grade SSL encryption, secure servers, and has no history of data breaches. Its Curacao license ensures compliance with strict regulatory standards, surpassing competitors like Betway, which faced minor security issues in 2023. Regular audits and transparent policies further enhance trust, making 7Bit a reliable choice among the best online casinos Ontario.

    Responsible Gambling: Prioritizing Player Well-Being

    7Bit Casino is committed to promoting responsible gambling, offering a suite of tools to help players manage their gaming habits:

    • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps to control spending.
    • Loss Limits: Prevent excessive losses by capping spending over a set period.
    • Cool-off Periods: Temporarily suspend accounts for short breaks.
    • Self-Exclusion: Opt out for extended periods, with reactivation requiring direct contact.
    • Account Closure: Permanently close accounts for those needing a complete break.

    Additionally, 7Bit provides resources and links to organizations like Gamblers Anonymous and Gambling Therapy, ensuring players have access to professional support. This commitment surpasses competitors with less robust measures, solidifying 7Bit’s status among the best online casinos in Ontario.

    The Rise of 7Bit Casino: A Global Leader

    Since its launch in 2014, 7Bit Casino, operated by Dama N.V., has grown into a global powerhouse in the iGaming industry. Its early adoption of cryptocurrency, focus on anonymous gaming, and expansive game library have earned it a stellar reputation. Positive reviews on platforms like AskGamblers and CasinoGuru praise its reliability, fast payouts, and player-friendly policies. This global success translates to Ontario, where 7Bit has become a top pick among new online casinos.

    Player Testimonials: Real Experiences

    Players consistently praise 7Bit Casino for its exceptional features:

    • “The no-KYC policy and instant crypto payouts make 7Bit my go-to casino.” – Alex M., Toronto
    • “The welcome bonus was a game-changer, and the variety of pokies is unreal.” – Emma L., Ottawa
    • “Customer support is quick and professional, unlike other casinos I’ve tried.” – Ryan T., London

    These testimonials highlight why 7Bit is a favorite among online casinos Ontario, reflecting its ability to deliver a superior player experience.

    Game Provider Partnerships: Powering a World-Class Gaming Experience

    The quality and diversity of game provider partnerships are pivotal in distinguishing the best online casinos in Ontario from their peers, as they directly influence the gaming experience. 7Bit Casino excels in this area by collaborating with nearly 100 top-tier software providers, including industry giants like NetEnt, Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, Play’n GO, BGaming, and Habanero, as well as innovative studios like Yggdrasil, Pragmatic Play, and Red Tiger.

    This extensive network enables 7Bit to offer over 7,000 high-quality games, far surpassing competitors like Jackpot City, which partners with fewer providers (primarily Microgaming) and offers a limited 500-game catalog.

    These partnerships also guarantee technical excellence, with games optimized for fast loading, high-definition graphics, and seamless performance across devices. 7Bit Casino further benefits from providers’ commitment to fairness, as many integrate provably fair technology and undergo regular audits by firms like eCOGRA.

    By fostering robust and diverse game provider partnerships, 7Bit ensures a dynamic, engaging, and reliable gaming experience, solidifying its position as a leader among brand new online casinos in Ontario.

    The Future of Online Gambling in Ontario

    Ontario’s online gambling market is poised for significant growth, driven by trends like cryptocurrency adoption, virtual reality (VR) gaming, and privacy-focused platforms. 7Bit Casino is well-positioned to lead this evolution, with its crypto support, no-KYC policy, and forward-thinking approach.

    Emerging technologies like VR and augmented reality (AR) may soon enhance gaming experiences, but for now, 7Bit remains the gold standard among brand-new online casinos. Its ability to adapt to market trends ensures it will remain a top contender in 2026 and beyond.

    Community Engagement and Social Presence

    7Bit Casino actively engages its community through social media platforms like Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram, where it shares updates on bonuses, tournaments, and new game releases. Regular giveaways and interactive campaigns foster a sense of community, unlike competitors with limited online presence. This transparency and engagement build trust, further cementing 7Bit’s status among new online casinos.

    Industry Recognition and Awards

    7Bit Casino has received many awards from reputable platforms like AskGamblers, CasinoGuru, and iGaming Business, recognizing its excellence in game variety, bonuses, and player satisfaction. These achievements underscore its position as the best online casino in Ontario, setting a benchmark for competitors to follow.

    Strategies for Winning at 7Bit Casino

    To maximize your experience at 7Bit Casino, consider these tips:

    • Leverage Bonuses: Use the welcome bonus and daily offers to extend your playtime, but always read the terms to understand wagering requirements.
    • Choose High-RTP Games: Opt for slots like Mega Joker (99% RTP) or video poker for better long-term returns.
    • Participate in Tournaments: Compete in regular tournaments for a chance at cash prizes and free spins.
    • Set a Budget: Use responsible gambling tools to manage spending and avoid chasing losses.
    • Explore Crypto Payments: Crypto withdrawals are faster and fee-free, ideal for quick access to winnings.

    These strategies, combined with 7Bit’s player-friendly features, enhance your chances of success at one of the best online casinos Ontario.

    Customer Support: Reliable Assistance

    7Bit Casino offers 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, ensuring players receive prompt assistance:

    • Live Chat: Instant help directly on the website, with response times under a minute.
    • Email: Contact support@7bit.com for detailed inquiries, with replies typically within a few hours.

    The professional and multilingual support team handles everything from account setup to payment disputes, enhancing the player experience and reinforcing 7Bit’s status as a top online casino in Ontario.

    Final Words About 7Bit: The Best Online Casino in Ontario

    In a competitive landscape filled with brand-new online casinos, 7Bit Casino shines as the best online casino in Ontario 2025. Its vast game library of over 7,000 titles, generous bonuses, rapid payouts, privacy-focused no-KYC policy, and robust security measures make it the ideal choice for all players.

    Whether you’re chasing the best online pokies, immersive live dealer experiences, or competitive sports betting, 7Bit Casino delivers on every front. Its commitment to responsible gambling, community engagement, and industry innovation further solidifies its leadership.

    Don’t miss the opportunity to join Ontario’s premier online casino. Sign up today and claim your welcome bonus to experience why 7Bit Casino is the top choice among the best online casinos in Ontario!

    ✅Unlock Your 325% Bonus – Up to $10,800 CAD + 250 Free Spins!

    Email: Support@7bitCasino.com

    Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for informational and promotional purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should verify information independently before acting on it. Affiliate links may generate commissions at no additional cost to users. Gambling is intended for individuals of legal age (19 in Ontario) and should be conducted responsibly. Seek help from certified organizations like Gamblers Anonymous for gambling addiction. All trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners. By reading this article, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and agree to hold the publisher, affiliates, and contributors harmless from any liability arising from its use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3a46ab4c-dc1e-452b-b7c9-48abff55ce3b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung TV Plus To Exclusively Live Stream SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A. Globally on New SMTOWN Channel

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced that Samsung TV Plus, its free ad-supported streaming (FAST) service, will serve as the exclusive global livestream platform for SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A., the landmark K-pop concert commemorating the 30th anniversary of SM Entertainment. The live broadcast will air on May 11, from Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles, to audiences across 18 countries via Samsung TV Plus.
     
    This milestone collaboration with SM Entertainment — the powerhouse behind K-pop’s global rise — marks a significant moment for Samsung TV Plus as it continues to redefine how fans worldwide experience Korean content.
     
    “Through our partnership with SM Entertainment, we’re leveraging Samsung TV Plus’s technology to bring the richness of K-Content to more viewers than ever before,” said Yong Su Kim, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “This global event marks a significant moment for K-Pop fans everywhere and we’re proud to broaden access to premium Korean content for audiences around the world.”
     
     
    Unprecedented Global Access to K-pop’s Biggest Stage
    SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A. will feature a star-studded lineup of SM Entertainment’s leading artists, including TVXQ!, SUPER JUNIOR, SHINee (KEY, MINHO), EXO (SUHO, CHANYEOL, KAI), Red Velvet (IRENE, SEULGI, JOY), NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, RIIZE, NCT WISH, Hearts2Hearts, SMTR25, and much more.
     
    In addition to beloved fan-favorite tracks, Samsung TV Plus will exclusively showcase live performances, including:
     
    The first US stage of “poppop” by NCT WISH, following their recent music show win
    The live performance of “Wait On Me” by EXO’s KAI, a chart-topping track that reached No.1 on iTunes in 30 regions and topped China’s QQ Music digital album chart
     
    These moments will be available only on Samsung TV Plus, providing fans in select countries with exclusive front-row access.
     
     
    Dedicated SMTOWN Channel Enhances the K-pop Viewing Experience
    To further elevate fan engagement, Samsung TV Plus has launched a dedicated SMTOWN Channel that offers:
     
    Full concert replays of SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A.
    Music videos and curated content highlighting SM artists and the legacy of SM Entertainment
     
    The SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A. replay will be available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus in select countries for a six-month period, further reinforcing the platform’s role as a premier global destination for K-pop content.
     
     
    A Growing Hub for Global K-Content
    Samsung TV Plus continues to grow as a global destination for Korean entertainment, offering over 4,000 hours of free-to-stream dramas, thrillers, romance, crime series, and music programming. Available on more than 630 million Samsung devices across 30 countries, the platform provides a seamless, ad-supported viewing experience to millions of users — no subscriptions or logins required.
     
    With the SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A. partnership, Samsung TV Plus solidifies its leadership in global K-content distribution — expanding access, deepening fan connections, and bringing iconic Korean entertainment into more homes around the world.
     
    For more information on how to watch SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A. and explore the full Samsung TV Plus offering, visit www.samsung.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Generations of football fandom given a new voice in library exhibition

    Source: City of Leeds

    Some of the world’s oldest football fanzines, which kicked off a wave of people-powered publications on terraces across the globe, are going on display in a new exhibition in Leeds.

    A copy of Foul, widely regarded as the original magazine created by football supporters, is among the scores of titles which feature in Voice of the Fans, which opens at Leeds Central Library on Friday (May 9) in partnership the British Library.

    On loan from the British Library’s collection, Foul was originally produced by students at Cambridge University in October, 1972, with 34 issues subsequently published between 1972 and 1976.

    Researchers scouring through archives, libraries and loans from members of the public have also discovered a copy of The Shamrock, made by fans of Celtic in Scotland, which researchers believe is the oldest fanzine they have traced.

    On loan from the National Library of Scotland, it was produced by the Edinburgh-based Shamrock Supporters Club in the early 1960s, and was sold on match days by volunteers along the approaches to Celtic Park.

    These early examples are among a huge range of grassroots, self-published zines on display tracing the evolution of fan-led media right through to modern, multimedia content.

    Other aspects of fan culture including badges, banners, scarfs and even recordings of terrace chants from the British Library Sound Archive also form part of the exhibition.

    And fresh off a parade earlier this week, which saw thousands of Leeds United fans gather to celebrate the club’s triumphant return to the Premier League, the exhibition also features some of their most important and enduring zines.

    Editions of The Square Ball, featuring Elland Road idols including Gordon Strachan and Lucas Radebe, and Marching Altogether, founded by Leeds United fans to campaign against racism in football, are among the exhibits on display.

    And with Bradford City also securing promotion to League One last weekend fans will be able to see copies of The City Gent– the longest running print football zine in the country.

    Antony Ramm, librarian at Leeds Central Library, said: “The longevity and sheer variety of some of these remarkable publications really demonstrates how much fan culture has been at the heart and soul of football, playing such a huge role in making the game so beloved the world over.

    “The ways fans express themselves may have changed through the years, but what’s remained the same is that passion and desire which has driven supporters to find a way to make their voices heard.

    “As well as being a fun way of fans communicating, self-published zines have also played an important role in holding clubs to account and driving change in the game too.

    “We saw this week just how much football means to the fans, and we’re excited to be celebrating their creations and working with the British Library to bring so many different examples of supporters’ voices together.”

    The exhibition will also feature more influential publications from the British Library’s collection including The End and other Yorkshire zines such as Y-Front, Just Another Wednesday and Smile Awhile.

    Laurence Byrne, lead curator, Latin American and Caribbean collections at the British Library, said: “It’s been a pleasure to be involved with Voice of the Fans, an exhibition the British Library has co-produced with Leeds Libraries. This special exhibition features a number of loans from the Library’s collection of zines, created by football fans from the 1970s onwards, including Foul, widely regarded as the first football fanzine.

    “As historical documents fanzines are invaluable, reflecting contemporary politics and changing social values while representing the incredible creativity and ingenuity of fans. I hope that researchers and the public will continue to be inspired by them.”

    Kenn Taylor, lead culture producer north at the British Library, said: “We are thrilled to be co-producing Voice of the Fans with Leeds Libraries. We’ve long had a presence in Leeds through working with local partners to deliver inspiring exhibitions and also more widely in West Yorkshire, with over 70 per cent of our collection being cared for in Boston Spa, near Wetherby.

    “This collaboration with Leeds Libraries is part of the British Library’s wider commitment to the region, working closely with the local community in Leeds and opening up our collection for everyone.”

    Voice of the Fans is open from May 9 until August 10 at Leeds Central Library and is free to visit.

    Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: “This week has been a huge moment for football in Leeds and a time when we’ve seen in spectacular style just how much love for the game there is in the city.

    “We’re thrilled to be showcasing how much football has meant to fans through the years and to be celebrating the unique place the beautiful game has in the hearts of supporters.”

    More information about Voice of the Fans can be found at: Voice of the Fans exhibition | Leeds Library

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN road safety exhibition at the Palais des Nations to raise awareness about risk factors on the road and existing solutions

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    On the eve of the 8th UN Road safety Week, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, with support of the Permanent Representation of Malaysia to the UN and International Organizations in Geneva, will launch the UN road safety exhibition. Taking place at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, on Friday, 9 May, the exhibition aims to raise awareness about the risk factors on the road and existing solutions that can improve road safety and save millions of lives worldwide.

    In line with the main theme of the 8th UN Road Safety Week – making cycling and walking safe – the exhibition will feature the “Helmets for Hope” project, which consists of 17 helmets compliant with UN safety standards, and painted by refugees and artists from all over the world. This project is an initiative of the Secretariat of the Special Envoy, in collaboration with Artolution and with the support of Keep Fighting Foundation.

    Motorcycle users are particularly vulnerable on the road. Wearing a helmet that complies with UN safety standards is a game changer. It can reduce the risk of death by over 6 times and reduce the risk of brain injury by up to 74% (WHO 2021). It is therefore urgent to promote the widespread use of UN certified helmets.

    The exhibition will also feature 17 visuals of the UN-JCDecaux campaign #MakeASafety Statement, with the support of the International Olympic Committee.  In addition, there will be vehicle safety demonstrations on the prevention and management of car crashes, including extinguishing battery fire, and a simulation test of driving tired and under influence.

    The exhibition will be followed by a conversation on safe and sustainable mobility in the city, hosted by the Permanent Representation of Belgium to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva.

    The silent pandemic on the road

    The Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, qualified road crashes as “The Silent Pandemic on the Road”. Every year, the staggering toll of road-related fatalities globally claims the lives of 1.19 million people, leaving 50 million others with severe injuries. Furthermore, road crashes are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years (WHO 2021). Two months after the Declaration of Marrakesh where Member States further engaged to accelerate the efforts to achieve the new Decade of Action for Road Safety, it is urgent to act together to achieve the goal of halving the number of the victims on the road by 2030.

    “Road crashes are not a fatality. This is why this exhibition on road safety at the Palais des Nations is important for raising awareness about the risk factors on the road. It also demonstrates the importance of building a global partnership for achieving road safety SDG targets,” the Special Envoy noted.

     

    Make a Safety Statement

    The UN Global Campaign for Road Safety – #MakeASafetyStatement, in partnership with JCDecaux, is part of UN efforts to raise public awareness of life-saving initiatives on the road. By the end of 2025, the campaign will appear on billboards and in public places in 80 countries, thanks to a global partnership with JCDecaux. It will be broadcast in about 1,000 towns and cities in 30 languages.

    Under the slogan #MakeASafetyStatement, the campaign brings together celebrities worldwide, such as Patrick Dempsey, Michelle Yeoh, Charles Leclerc, Didier Drogba, Teddy Riner, Kylie Minogue, Mick Schumacher or Naomi Campbell, to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe. Olympic athletes also joined the campaign, thanks to the support of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

    With making walking and cycling safe in the focus of the 8th UN road safety week, the Office of the Special Envoy has strengthened its collaboration with the International Union of Cyclists (UCI), thanks to the participation of Tadej Pogačar who is one of the champions of the MakeASafetyStatement campaign.

    Towards zero victims on the road in Switzerland

    According to the Swiss Federal Roads Office, road crashes caused 250 deaths in Switzerland in 2024, the highest figure since 2015. There were 47 deaths among motorcyclists with an increase among young people, 25 on electric bicycles, 20 among “conventional” cyclists, and 48 among pedestrians, the majority of whom were outside of pedestrian crossings.

    Of the total, alcohol was the suspected primary cause in 34 cases (+31% year-on-year), ahead of speeding, with 33 cases, and then inattention or distraction.  Among deaths in passenger car accidents, the sharpest increase was observed among those aged 25 to 34 and those aged 75 and over.

    However, the number of people seriously injured decreased. Switzerland is one of the countries that has invested in road safety with zero tolerance, and has achieved a road fatality rate of 2 per 100,000 inhabitants (compared to 6.5/100,000 in Europe and 19.5/100,00 in Africa (WHO 2021). The country can therefore show good practices that could be implemented in other countries.

    Risk factors that are often neglected                                                                           

    Only 7 countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors (France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Sweden) on speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints as regulated by UNECE.

    For example, safety-belts remain the best vehicle safety device to protect passengers from being severely injured in a crash or being ejected from the vehicle.  Over the past several decades regulation and consumer demand have led to increasingly safe cars in higher income countries, in turn leading to fewer road fatalities. For example, in the UNECE region, total road fatalities decreased by 25% in between 2000 and 2010, and by 15% in the period 2010-2019. In particular, this drop was more significant among car occupants (UNECE 2024).

    Malaysia supports the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety

    One study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) revealed that many young riders in Malaysia begin as early as the age of 12, often without licenses or proper training. These insights have helped Malaysia shape more targeted interventions, because when we understand the behaviour, we are better positioned to implement solutions that are both smart and achievable.

    In support of this, Malaysia continues to prioritise helmet use among young motorcyclists. In addition to education and awareness campaigns in schools and rural areas, Malaysia introduced a Helmet Exchange Programme that allows riders to swap old or non-compliant helmets for new, safety-certified ones. This effort is vital as motorcyclists account for over 60% of road traffic fatalities in Malaysia, with the highest risk group being those aged 16 to 20. By improving access, building awareness, and fostering behavioural change, we aim to instill a culture of safety from early age.

    Malaysia firmly embraces the vision of the UN Decade of Action, to reduce road traffic fatalities by 50% by 2030. To this end, Malaysia continues to work closely with key road safety stakeholders, including the WHO.

     

    Learn more about the programme of the exhibition here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Families enjoy Go Walks launch

    Source: City of Coventry

    The city’s new Go Walks scheme has been launched, giving families the chance to explore their local area, improve their health and build stronger communities.

    The series of walks is based around the City’s Family Hubs that provide welcoming, safe spaces where children, young people and families can access services and help, while enjoying fun activities and building friendships.

    The launch which took place on the 25 April saw families set out on one of the walks at the Moat Family Hub, hosted by guest of honour, and much-loved children’s TV presenter, Gemma Hunt, an Ambassador for The Outdoor Guide Foundation.

    Gemma said: “Go Walks is brilliant for these wonderful Family Hubs in Coventry.

    “There are different walks you can go on with your families and they’re all really easily accessible for all ages, so breathe in the fresh air and get outdoors.”

    After enjoying the walk, local families gave the scheme the thumbs-up, with comments including:

    • “The walk was amazing and I enjoyed it. It helped with my mental health and wellbeing. I’ll do more walks. It was good to meet new people.”
    • “The walk was beautiful. I saw places I never knew were there and enjoyed ice cream and seeing Gemma Hunt.”
    • “The walk was very exciting and the trail map is good. It’s a healthy way of engaging the kids.”

    See photos from the day – Family Hubs launch Go Walks | Flickr.

    Go Walks is the result of a new partnership between the City Council and The Outdoor Guide – an organisation that strongly believes in the value of enjoying a healthy life outdoors – which has built a national network of walks throughout the UK in both cities and the countryside.

    The aim of the walks is to link residents with green spaces in their areas. Showing local families the amazing facilities right on their doorstep – from parks and woodland to social supermarkets, food banks, drop-in centres, places of worship, medical centres and primary schools.  This initiative delivers on our pledge to children and young people to help them be and feel healthy as part of Child Friendly Cov.

    As well as enabling residents to get to know their area better and see the numerous facilities and support on offer, the walks will also introduce new arrivals to the City to their neighbourhood and bring people together. Families will be able to connect with their local Family Hub and discover all the free activities and resources available for them.

    Cllr Patricia Seaman, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “The Go Walks scheme is a wonderful idea and you could see how valued they will be by the reaction of people at the launch.

    “They will bring people together, get people talking and build communities, and they will help many to enjoy more of our great city while getting a little healthier.”

    Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “We all know how important exercise is for our mental and physical wellbeing, and the Go Walks are a great way to enjoy some gentle activity in the fresh air.

    “They are ideal for families to spend some time together and to take a few minutes to relax away from the everyday pressures. I am sure they will be a popular addition to our city.”

    To learn more about Go Walks, visit The Outdoor Guide’s website. To find out more about your local Family Hub offer please visit www.coventryfamilies.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Ireland – JACKBIT Ranked #1 Irish Casino Site of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    1. Claim the Welcome Bonus: Start with the 30% Rakeback + 100 Free Spins to boost your bankroll.
    2. Join the VIP Club: Increase your activity to unlock higher Rakeback percentages.
    3. Bet on Irish Sports: Wager on GAA, hurling, and horse racing for a local experience.
    4. Use Cryptocurrencies: Enjoy instant, fee-free transactions with BTC, ETH, or USDT.
    5. Participate in Tournaments: Compete in leaderboards for cash and spins.
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    These strategies will enhance your experience, ensuring you make the most of JACKBIT’s offerings in the best online casinos Ireland.

    JACKBIT’s Future in Ireland

    As Ireland’s online gambling market continues to evolve, JACKBIT is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the best online casinos in Ireland. Its commitment to innovation, from crypto-based mini-games to a no-KYC model, ensures it remains ahead of the curve. The platform’s focus on Irish sports and cultural themes further strengthens its appeal, making it a beloved choice for players across the country.

    JACKBIT’s ongoing investment in technology, such as enhanced mobile features and AI-driven responsible gambling tools, signals its dedication to improving the player experience. By continuing to offer competitive bonuses and a diverse game library, JACKBIT is poised to remain a top pay ID casino in the best online casinos Ireland.

    To celebrate its 2025 ranking, JACKBIT is offering new players an exclusive welcome bonus:

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    Final Words About The Best Online Casinos Ireland

    JACKBIT Casino is the definitive choice for Irish players seeking the best online casinos Ireland in 2025. With its expansive game library, generous bonuses, secure payment options, and unwavering commitment to responsible gambling, JACKBIT delivers a gaming experience that is both thrilling and trustworthy. As a new online casino and anonymous online casino, it blends innovation with player-focused features, making it the premier pay ID casino for Irish players.

    Whether you’re spinning the best online pokies, betting on your favorite sports, or enjoying live dealer games, JACKBIT offers endless entertainment. Sign up today to claim your welcome bonus and discover why JACKBIT is the #1 choice in online casinos in Ireland.

    Email: support@jackbit.com

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for general information and promotional purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we aim for accuracy, we can’t guarantee everything is up-to-date or complete. Please double-check details before acting. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission at no extra cost to you, but this doesn’t affect our content or opinions. Online gambling is for adults of legal age (typically 19+ in Ireland) and carries financial risk. Play responsibly and seek help if needed. Brand names mentioned belong to their respective owners. By reading this, you accept full responsibility for how you use the information.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9a494bed-945b-4b42-8b9d-25f7f239b9f2

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