Chapter 279: New Year Plans

**January 1st**

Hardy Mining allocated $5 million for the development of gold mines. Partnering with the Kaiser Group of the California Consortium, which not only operates a mining company but also sells mining equipment, Hardy Mining secured both the necessary equipment and assistance for mining operations.

For the remaining land, Hardy enlisted Columbus to recruit additional prospectors. With confidence in finding more mineral deposits, Hardy anticipated that new discoveries would naturally drive up Hardy Mining's stock value.

Columbus and his team recently uncovered a gold mine, resulting in substantial bonuses for everyone involved. Columbus received over $40,000, supervisors earned tens of thousands, and ordinary prospecting team members received $4,000 to $5,000 each—equivalent to two years' salary for many. The prospecting team, now expanded to 300 people, was equipped with more tools and divided into six groups to explore the vast terrain.

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**The Annual Work Meeting**

In Hardy Group's expansive conference room, the annual work meeting was underway. The presidents of major companies gathered to review the previous year's performance and set plans for the new year. While a three-year plan guided overall direction, each year's plan was refined based on current circumstances.

Hardy surveyed the more than twenty company presidents, noting the growth of his team. One by one, the presidents delivered their reports.

Lanster from the security company spoke first. Despite the company's future industries, Hardy prioritized the security division.

"HD Security developed steadily last year," Lanster reported. "We established branches in six cities and formed two subsidiaries: an information consulting firm and a security and defense company. Our focus this year includes expanding our branch network, partnering with major banks and enterprises, and enhancing our overseas presence with shipping escorts and military training."

Some details were intentionally vague due to confidentiality.

Next, Wells Fargo's vice president, currently in Finland, reported on the bank's progress. 

"Wells Fargo's focus will be on expanding our branch network across the U.S. and into Europe and Asia. We will also increase our investment activities, having already purchased shares in several promising companies, including IBM, Motorola, Colgate, Mobil Oil, General Motors, and others. Additionally, we will develop our angel investment business and establish a professional investment consulting company, bringing in the McKinsey team for senior consulting."

Edward from HD Pictures took his turn. 

"Due to the 'Paramount Act,' many film companies have reduced their production. HD Pictures will also scale back but continue focusing on high-quality projects. We plan to increase TV series production and continue our partnership with ABC TV. The first season of 'Captain America' has been filmed, and 'Super Idol' will fill prime-time slots."

Edward mentioned that the agency had signed hundreds of new talents who would be trained and then launched into the market with new songs, albums, and performances.

Hardy had a couple of additional requests. 

"Edward, write down two things," Hardy said. "First, we need to establish a TV drama award. Movies have the Golden Globes and Oscars; TV dramas need their own recognition. We'll call it the Emmy Award."

"Second, we need a music award. Let ABC TV handle this one, and name it the Grammy Award."

William Fox, ABC Television's president, noted Hardy's instructions to create the Grammy Award.

With the ABC TV's plan to continue "Super Idol" and other projects, Hardy was satisfied with the progress. He then reviewed reports from other divisions: Global Times, Hardy Casino, Airlines, Barbie, Playboy, Marvel, Art Auction Company, Occidental Petroleum, Hardy Mining, logistics companies, supermarket chains, Caesars Palace Hotel, Venetian Hotel, and more.

Hardy's six pillar industries—security, media, banking, gambling, retail logistics, and luxury goods—were all progressing well. 

After the meeting, Hardy called Edward aside. 

"I've drafted three screenplay outlines," Hardy said, presenting the documents. "Have the best screenwriters turn them into scripts."

Edward took the outlines, aware of the success of Hardy's previous scripts. Hardy's films, including "Across the World" and "Song in the Rain," had been box office hits and critical successes.

Edward asked, "Are you planning to film these this year? Any suitable candidates?"

"'The Seven-Year Itch' and 'Enthusiasm Is Like a Fire' are specifically for Monroe," Hardy replied. 

Edward noted that Hardy seemed to be quite invested in Monroe. 

"And 'Roman Holiday' is for Audrey Hepburn," Hardy added.

Edward pondered Hardy's interest in Hepburn, suspecting she might be his next target.

"By the way, how is Hepburn doing lately?" Hardy inquired casually.

"She's still training. We've arranged a small role for her next month—a show reflecting British aristocracy," Edward responded.

"Have some makeup photos taken of her and show me the results," Hardy instructed.

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**Post-New Year**

Taylor departed for France to film "Beauty and the Beast," and Ava went to Africa with the crew for "Kilimanjaro's Snow," as American interest in Africa grew. Han Yizhen continued working on a museum in Hong Kong.

With Elaine, a French girl, currently the only real woman around, Hardy felt content. 

As "Captain America" premiered, depicting American soldiers gaining extraordinary combat abilities through gene fluid, it garnered over 80% ratings, surpassing other major TV stations. 

Isha enjoyed the show, lying on the bed while Hardy reviewed documents. 

A telegram from Wells Fargo reported that a company called Nile Shipping, based in the Netherlands, sought cooperation with Hardy Group. With a strategic location in Europe and Hardy's extensive fleet, Hardy decided to invest in Nile Shipping.

As Hardy reviewed the information, Elaine shifted under the quilt, catching Hardy's attention. He set aside the documents and joined her, enjoying a moment of relaxation.

Hardy stroked Elaine's hair, reflecting on the successful start to the new year and the exciting prospects ahead.