#Fresh Global Top 20

[itsvivace]

— VIVACE . . THE DISCOGRAPHY . . !

VIVACE is a fictional thirteen-member girl group formed by the survival show I-Doll, where seventy contestants competed for a chance to debut in a group under the company I-Teen Media. VIVACE is split into three active sub-units, but today, we’ll be talking about the main group’s music, which has captured the hearts of fans worldwide and solidified them as one of the best Kpop acts of the current generation. VIVACE has stated that they want their music to be reminiscent of the older generations in Kpop and music for girls all around the world to feel empowered by.

— 2019 - 2020 . . ORIGINS OF A SUPERSTAR . .

After the finale of I-Doll, I-Teen Media announced that VIVACE would debut in mid-September, leaving fans in anticipation of their upcoming debut. VIVACE officially debuted on September 17, 2019, with the self-titled mini album “VIVACE” consisting of five tracks, including the title track “Gee!”. VIVACE debuted with 63K album sales and Gee! charted #22 on the global charts within the first 24 hours. Gee!’s cute sound and second-gen influence attracted even more attention to the group, and by the end of the first week, both the title track and album topped the charts at #1.

With their debut a huge success, many waited for VIVACE’s first comeback, announced to be released in December of the same year. On December 12, 2019, their first single album, “QUEENDOM,” was released consisting of three tracks, including the title track, “Royalty.” Royalty captivated fans for its themes of self-love and upbeat lyrics but wasn’t enough to get it to more success than “Gee!” with Royalty charting #48 on global charts and QUEENDOM earning 15K album sales, a lot of netizens were saying VIVACE was one-hit wonders and would end up flopping after this comeback.

VIVACE would take a small break and focus on their sub-unit releases until they came back on July 5, 2020, with their second mini album, “SUMMER VACAY,” which consists of five tracks, counting the title track “Drunk In You”. Despite the low reception of “QUEENDOM”, SUMMER VACAY instantly trended for its catchy songs and fresh sound, which earned the album 98K album sales, and the entire album charted in the top ten on the global charts. SUMMER VACAY was known as the uprising of VIVACE and the start of their international stardom.

By their next comeback, VIVACE had become one of the biggest Kpop acts of 4th Gen, especially with all of the popularity their sub-units were getting. Their third mini album, “PAPARAZZI”, was released on October 24, 2020, with the album consisting of six tracks, including their breakout title track, “RUN”. RUN was a darker, more mature sound than what VIVACE usually did, but it ended up going viral just from the teasers alone, earning the album 283K sales and 8 million views in just the first 24 hours. Fresh off RUN's success, VIVACE released their first digital single, “Ladies Night”, on December 25, 2020, as a Christmas gift to fans. The song charted #2 on Melon and went #1 on global charts.

— 2021 - 2023 . . LIVIN’ IT LIKE A STAR . .

VIVACE took an almost year long hiatus as a group to further focus on sub-unit releases until they finally made a comeback with their first full album, “CELESTE”, on September 17, 2021. CELESTE is a two year anniversary album with thirteen tracks, including the title track, “YES, YOU”. CELESTE introduces a retro theme, which, despite not having done so before, fans say sounds authentically VIVACE. CELESTE sold 1.4 million copies, a huge jump from PAPARAZZI, after gaining an insane number of fans during the group’s hiatus. The entire album charted within the top 20, and the top 5 spots on the charts were all VIVACE. Fans refer to this era as the start of VIVACE’s prime.

With VIVACE releasing only CELESTE in 2021, fans went into 2022 hoping for a release sometime soon; they got their wish when VIVACE released their second full album, “MY IMPACT”, on April 19, 2022. MY IMPACT is an album consisting of 11 tracks along with the title track, “The Boys”, where VIVACE talks about their impact on the kpop industry and also empowers women not to let gender discrimination hold them back from their dreams. MY IMPACT sold almost 9 million copies, the most copies VIVACE has sold to this day, and most of the songs off the album charted within the top 10. MY IMPACT ended up being the most successful era they had so far with them winning Song Of The Year, Artist Of The Year, and almost winning Album Of The Year for 2022.

On November 13, 2022, VIVACE released their fourth mini album, “ALL I ASK”, consisting of six tracks, including the title track, “SAVE ME”. The album has a slower, elegant sound than some of their previous releases, earning the album 7 million album sales and the title track charting #3 in Korea and #9 internationally. ALL I ASK is known as one of VIVACE’s forgotten eras, a lot of fans even think VIVACE themselves don’t remember the album.

As a collaboration project with the Barbie Movie, VIVACE released “Barbie Girl”, their fifth mini album, on June 10, 2023. The album consists of five tracks, including their first English title track, “VALENTINE”. VIVACE promoted the album completely in the United States, and the album sold 7.8 million copies and charted #1 on iTunes. VALENTINE ended up being the end credits song, which attracted even more international fans to the group.

VIVACE’s most recent release, “1-800-LOVERGIRL”, is their second single album, released on December 29, 2023. It consists of three tracks, including the lead title track, “YOUNG LOVE.” 1-800-LOVERGIRL sold 6 million copies, and the title charted #2 on Korean charts and #5 on global charts. As of July 2024, VIVACE has not made any news on a comeback, including with any of their sub-units, leaving fans wondering when VIVACE will make a comeback.

[kverything-official]

20 Most Anticipated K dramas to watch in 2024

Without a single doubt 2023 has been a prosperous year for us Kdrama fans. Starting from Crash Course in Romance in January 2023 to Gyeongseong Creature in December, the entire year of 2023 has brought us several unique stories, fantastic plots, sometimes sad endings and sometimes fairly-tale like “happily ever after”. 

Even though there were a fair amount of Korean Dramas that were disappointing in 2023, but trust me when I say it, 2024 is certainly not going to disappoint you at all. Even when 2023 has delivered back to back hits like The Glory 2, Good Bad Mother, Moving and many more, 2024 stores sequels to hit kdramas along with some fresh new stories ready to blow us kdrama fans out of our minds.  

So, without wasting any more time, let’s get into the list.

20 K dramas to watch in 2024

1. Squid Game 2

Episodes: 6 (Not confirmed yet)

Expected release date: Around October 2024

Genre: Thriller, action, mystery

Squid Game redefined the place of Korean Dramas in the global entertainment industry. This drama became the first non-English act to win six Emmy awards as well as gained the title of the most watched Netflix series ever. And to level up the death game even more, Squid Game season 2 is all set to be released in October 2024. 

This season promises Eight additional cast members, making the anticipation even more exciting. So, are you ready to witness this intense gory thriller in 2024 or not?   

2. Marry My Husband

Episodes: 16

Release date: 1st January 

Genre: Drama, Romance, Fantasy  

This fantasy romance then takes us 10 years back before Kang Ji Won was even married. While she gets to choose a new life for herself, we get to enjoy this star studded drama full of angst and romance.  

3. Aema

Episodes: 6

Expected release date: Yet to be confirmed 

Genre: Comedy, drama

Next in the list is the comedy drama Aema, which is all set to feature Lee Ha-Nee, Bang Hyo-Rin, Jin Sun-Kyu, and Cho Hyun-Chul as the main cast. The backdrop of the drama is set in the 1980 as it tells the story of Jung Hee Ran a top actress, who is casted as the protagonist of a movie titled “Madame Aema”. 

This drama will certainly be a fun watch with an intriguing plot. Thus, don’t forget to add it to your list of K dramas to watch. 

4. Everything will Come true

Episodes: 12

Expected release date: Not confirmed yet

Genre: Fantasy, romance, drama 

Who didn’t like Uncontrollably Fond aka one of the saddest k dramas to watch? Only recalling the amazing chemistry between Shin Joon Young (Kim Woo Bin) and No Eul (Bae Suzy), makes us want to scream and cry for the couple. But don’t worry, Woo Bin and Suzy’s upcoming Korean drama Everything will come true will have a much lighter tone with a sprinkle of fantasy to it. 

Woo Bin here plays the role of an emotional genie who meets Ga Young (Bae Suzy) and promises to grant her three wishes. But everything that’s free often comes at a price. However, we hope it’s not a broken relationship this time.   

5. The Trunk

Episodes: 8

Expected release date: Yet to be confirmed 

Genre: Romance, melodrama, mystery 

Gong Yoo is returning with romance and melodrama and it won’t be in your watchlist? How is that even possible! The Trunk is certainly one of the most anticipated k dramas to watch in 2024, not only because it’s Gong Yoo and Son Ye Jin casted as the main lead, but also because this drama is an adaptation of 2022 novel The Trunk by C.M. Castillo. 

The intriguing plot of this drama takes us inside the life of No In Ji, the head of a fixed-term marriage agency and Han Jung Won, a music producer. Both of them despise the idea of getting married but eventually fall in love as the drama progresses. Interesting.. Isn’t it? 

Read more

[scotianostra]

Scottish musician Jimmy McCulloch guitarist was born on June 4th 1953 in Dumbarton.

Jimmy knew he wanted to be a musician from a young age and was in his first band by the time he was 11 in group called the Jaygars, with his older brother Jack. The brothers progressed together to the group later One In A Million, who released two singles, supported The Who and played at the famous 14-Hour Technicolour Dream event at Alexandra Palace in London — still two months before Jim’s 14th birthday.

In 1969, McCulloch joined Thunderclap Newman, whose Andy Newman was friends with the guys out of the Who, Pete Townshend produced and played guitar bass guitar on their only hit, the one hit wonder Something in the Air.

The group didn’t last long but the song remains one that is often heard on the golden oldies shows nowadays, it gave McCulloch a valuable springboard as a guitarist and writer, and in the early 1970s he was an in-demand session player, he later joined the cult Scottish group Stone the Crows

But it was Jimmy’s time in Wings that gave him the biggest global recognition. Recruited by McCartney to play on the Susie and the Red Stripes project for his wife Linda (which produced the single ‘Seaside Woman’), he became an official member of Wings in 1974. He appeared on the ‘Junior’s Farm’ single, a top three hit in the US that made the UK top 20. He stayed with them for around three years, but always a man with itchy feet he jumped ship when the chance to play with the reformed Small Faces came about.

Jimmy died of a drug-related heart attack in north London in September 1979, and we can only wonder about what else he would have gone on to achieve.

“He was always a little dangerous,” Paul McCartney said of the fresh-faced, hard-living guitarist. “In the end, he was just too dangerous for his own good.”

[apureniallsource]

Ahead of new album, The Show, Niall Horan on how he 'lives' for touring, his desire to connect with fans through his songs, and the challenge of going out for chips in his Irish hometown

It’s almost a cliché to call Niall Horan a “super-nice guy”, but really, there’s no getting away from it. He may have named his new album The Show, but Horan feels no need to put one on for a journalist. In fact, the Irish singer-songwriter is so laid-back and likeable when we meet at a smart London hotel – fresh flowers everywhere, bottled water waiting on the table – that I ask how he’s stayed so well-adjusted. “It’s probably a combination of the upbringing I had and the fact I already had enough character at 16 [to deal with it],” he says. “It might have been a different story if I’d started doing this when I was 10.”

Now 29, he has been scarily famous for almost half his life. After auditioning for The X Factor in 2010 as a solo artist, 16-year-old Horan was eliminated at the boot camp stage, then given a spectacular second chance as one fifth of a hastily assembled group called One Direction. He and his new bandmates – Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson – didn’t win that year’s show, but still used it as a springboard to become a chart-topping global phenomenon. By the time One Direction announced an indefinite hiatus in January 2016, they had sold 70 million records and debuted at number one in the US with their first four albums – something not even The Beatles achieved. When asked what he would say to his pre-1D, 16-year-old self, Horan replies: “Get ready. Your life’s about to change on a level that most of the world can’t even quantify.”

Horan says he still speaks to “the lads” on a regular basis, but like all of them, he has worked hard to carve out an identity as a solo artist. If Horan’s individual achievements still feel slightly underrated, that’s probably only because his flashier bandmate Styles is now a stadium-filling superstar. Released in 2017, Horan’s debut album Flicker was a deft blend of soft rock, folk and country that debuted at number one in the US and Ireland. His 2020 follow-up Heartbreak Weather added a dash of swagger to the mix – particularly on the Brit-poppy single ‘Nice to Meet Ya’ – and became his first UK chart-topper. Because it dropped in March 2020, just as Covid-19 was taking hold, Horan never got to take the album on the road. “I haven’t toured since 2018 – that’s wild,” he says. “I love live music and I love touring – I live for it. So, it’s sad that I haven’t done that.”

Happily, a few weeks after this interview, Horan announced The Show: Live on Tour, a 50-date trek across Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand that will keep him busy from February to July of next year. When Horan last toured five years ago, he mainly played large theatres, but now he is aiming to pack out arenas from Birmingham to Brisbane. During our conversation, he hinted that he was ready for the step up. “In my eyes, the bigger the venue, the better, because I fucking love looking out at an ocean of people,” he says. “For me, it feels like the bigger the venue, the better the show is gonna be.”

Horan also makes no bones about wanting The Show to become another UK number one after it drops on 9 June. “There’s nothing better than getting that little statue sent to your house,” he says with an impish grin. At the time of writing, he seems well on course for another express delivery from the Official Charts Company. The album’s breezy lead single ‘Heaven’ cracked the UK Top 20 in February, and its sprightly follow-up ‘Meltdown’ is now climbing the charts. A few hours before this interview, I watch him perform both songs in the Radio 1 Live Lounge. Horan is just as relaxed with his band during rehearsals, but when he spots that his vocals are getting buried in the mix, he quickly and calmly gets it corrected.

Horan began working on ‘The Show’ while holed up at home during the summer of 2020. The album title had come to him earlier in the year, but he “didn’t really know what it meant until the pandemic”. When he sat down at the piano that August, the lyrics that came out seemed to capture the confusion of the Covid era: “If everything was easy, nothing ever broke / If everything was simple, how would we know? / How to fix your tears? How to fake a show?” At this point, Horan says he realised ‘The Show’ was both “a metaphor for life” and an overarching concept he could run with. “When there’s no heartbreak [to write about], you have to come up with a different concept,” he says. “I realised quite quickly that what I wanted to talk about was the ups and downs and good and bad of life. That’s ‘The Show’.”

Having “no heartbreak” is about as much as Horan will say about his personal life. “Keeping that stuff quiet”, he believes, is one reason he remains so grounded. Since 2020, he has been dating Amelia Woolley, a designer shoe buyer who never appears on his work-focused Instagram. But when we discuss ‘You Could Start a Cult’, an idiosyncratic folk ballad from the album, Horan does offer a teasing glimpse into their home life. He says the song’s eye-catching title was inspired by the true-crime series they like watching. “I always try and write weird stuff like that, then see if I can flip it on its head and make the song [itself] not as dark as the title,” he says. In this case, Horan flipped it into a “love song, effectively”, albeit an intense one. “It’s about… not the desperation feeling, but the ‘I think you’re the best fucking thing in the world’ feeling,” he explains. “And if you started a cult, I’d follow you into the fire. You know, that kind of angst, though I don’t know if ‘angst’ is the word I’m looking for!”

Horan spends a lot of time in LA because his record label and producers are based there. His main collaborators on The Show were Joel Little, who he brought in because he liked his work with Taylor Swift, indie artist Noah Kahan, and long-time co-writer John Ryan, a veteran of four One Direction albums. “I think it’s really important first of all to be loyal,” he says of his enduring partnership with Ryan. “And you know, if it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Still, working with Little felt just as comfortable, partly because they could pick things up at a moment’s notice. “If I get the green light at the top of my street [in LA], I can be at Joel’s house in less than a minute,” Horan says. “It’s a fucking dream!”

But during the pandemic, Horan was grounded at his main base in southwest London. “I’ve never been fitter in my life because I was cycling 80 or 90 miles around Richmond Park every week – it’s gorgeous out there,” he recalls. Like many of us, Horan has conflicting feelings about the way Covid placed our lives on hold. “I don’t want to say I enjoyed it because I didn’t – it was such a horrible time,” he says. “But I got to a point about two or three months in, where I was like: ‘This is the longest I’ve ever had off.’ He particularly appreciated having to stay in one place for a sustained period of time. “Normally, I’m packing a suitcase every three or four days,” he says. “At Heathrow Airport, the guards at the [security] desk just laugh when they see me coming. They’re like, ‘How do you do this?’”

Having lived in London since he was 16, Horan says “it’s definitely the best city on the planet”. But at the same time, he still regards Mullingar, the Irish market town where he was born and raised, as home. His debut solo single ‘This Town’, a UK top 10 hit in 2016, was incredibly charming because it harnessed his ineffable longing for the place. Horan reckons he returns to Mullingar “seven or eight times a year”, although walking down the high street is pretty tricky. “I can’t just pull up outside the chip shop, run in and get the chips, then run back to the car,” he says. “Everything has to be thought through. Like, where am I going to park? How many streets am I going to have to cross? What am I going to wear?” Horan says all this with no hint of frustration: by now, he knows what is expected of a homecoming hero.

Horan knew he wanted to be a musician from a young age and says he “tried to make this as clear as possible” to his parents. They were “supportive up to a point”, but because the family didn’t have much money and Mullingar wasn’t a creative hub like Dublin, his mother urged him to “get some sort of qualification”. “I still don’t have any,” Horan says with a laugh, “I didn’t do GCSEs or anything like that because I didn’t finish school.” At 16, Horan made the 50-mile journey to Dublin to audition for The X Factor and grabbed hold of the One Direction rocket with both hands.

Did his parents come up with any ideas for a Plan B? “We didn’t get that far. Honestly, I just packed my bag and never came back – that’s the way they look at it,” says Horan. “My father worked in Tesco for 35 years and my mother worked at a pewter genesis company making little bits and pieces – clocks and things like that. They both had very regular jobs.” Horan notes astutely that some kids from a working-class background “like to spread their wings and leave the nest” – as he did, quite spectacularly – whereas others “like to stay in their hometown, or maybe can’t get out”. Horan pauses for a second, perhaps to ponder what might have been. “I don’t know what they would have wanted me to do, but I’m sure it would have been a good life,” he continues. “Like, my parents are having a good time.”

Thirteen years after he left to become a pop star, Horan’s own ambition remains undimmed. “I’ve achieved a lot in my young life, but I’m still fired up to do as much as I can,” he says. “My career has felt so good because it reminds me of everything I thought the music industry would be when I was a kid. I got the good end of the stick [in terms of] travelling the world and playing to millions. And I still want more of that.”

For this reason, the audience is always at the forefront of his mind. “When I’m writing, I ask myself, ‘Have I gone too specific to the point where it only makes sense to me?’” he says. “And then I try and broaden the thought to make it as relatable as possible.” ‘Never Grow Up’ from Horan’s new album was partly inspired by his girlfriend’s parents, who are “still madly in love”, but its lyrics will chime with One Direction fans who, like him, are close to turning 30. “Hope we still drink like we’re back in the pub,” Horan sings. “Hope we grow old, but we never grow up.”

In Horan’s eyes, the songs that fully stand the test of time – from Simon and Garfunkel to Whitney Houston and Adele – are “the ones that really mean a lot to the people”. It’s this kind of universal connection that he is always striving for. “These are the things that go on in my head when I’m writing,” he says. “I don’t want to alienate anyone, and I don’t want to be introspective to the point where I ruin it for everyone. So, if they can connect to it too, then we all get what we want out of this.”

[aussie-wbb]

This is the extended Opals squad, it'll be reduced to 12 players before the Olympic Qualifiers in February.

Looks like LJ only *said* she was retiring after the World Cup, and hopefully we bring some PGs to test out before the Olympics.

Full article below the cut:

Basketball Australia has announced a 20-player squad ahead of February’s FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament where the Seven Consulting Opals will look to punch their ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

A 12-player team will be picked from the extended quad for the Group A tournament in Belem, Brazil where Australia will play the host nation, Germany and Serbia from February 8 to 11.

The Opals must finish top three in their group to qualify for next year’s Olympics.

The squad features all 12 players from the 2022 bronze-medal winning World Cup team including 2023 WNBA champion Cayla George.

Young gun Jade Melbourne, fresh from her rookie WNBA campaign, has been included as well as 19-year-old rising star Isobel Borlase who has earned selection in her first senior national squad.

Opals Head Coach Sandy Brondello said the squad featured plenty of international experience as well as Australia’s stars of the future.

“The qualifiers in Brazil are definitely a challenge, the standard of women’s basketball globally has lifted considerably since the last Olympics as the game continues to gain momentum,” she said.

“Our squad is a great mix of experience and exciting emerging talent, so we approach the qualifiers with confidence but great respect for our opposition. We will have limited preparation for these qualifiers, but we know with the Opals, we lift for the big occasion and with an Olympics spot on the line we can expect each player to bring it.”

Borlase, who co-captained the Gems at this year’s FIBA Under-19 World Cup, expressed her excited of making her first Opals squad.

“To be recognised amongst all these phenomenal players is pretty special and I’m going to do everything I can to try and put my best foot forward.”

Marianna Tolo, one of six squad members playing in Europe this season, says the Opals are up for the challenge.

“Olympic Qualifying Tournaments are always nerve wracking because of what’s on the line. It helps that we have a lot of players who have been together before and then there’s a sprinkling of new faces, we’ve got a good squad which I think is ready for the challenge.

“We’re in a really tough group. Brazil as the home team have a huge advantage. Serbia have always been good and we’ve lost some big games against them, their team is probably not as strong as it has been but they’re always really smart. Germany are an upcomer with a new coach and the Sabally sisters (Satou and Nyara) always bring x-factor."

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Yuka: Morning, Lady Chef

Designer's Reflection: Morning, Lady Chef

Obtained: originally the top-up suit for Neon Genesis Evangelion collab, but for global it's just a general top-up suit

Rarity: SR

Attribute: Green/Fresh

Awakened Suit: Evening, Lady Chef

Story - transcripts from Designer's Reflection

Chapter 1 - Breakfast Battle

Chapter 2 - Punk's Persistence

Chapter 3 - Aroma of Sunshine

Story - summarized

No matter how many times Yuka tries to get Jax to have breakfast, nothing works. Jax will stay up almost all night partying and drinking, and when she gets home she just stays shut up in her room until she does it all again.

But Yuka knows that if she doesn't eat something soon, she could get badly hurt.

One night, Jax returns late. Yuka takes care of her and gets her to bed. She tries one more time to get Jax to join her for breakfast... finally, she threatens to take Jax to the hospital if she refuses to eat.

That convinces her, and the next day, the two of them enjoy fried eggs and sausage. Yuka is cheerful and caring, but Jax is confused. In this system, Jax is supposed to be the protector. Why is Yuka taking that role now?

Connections

-Yuka and Jax are part of a DID/OSDD system. Jax is "born" in Punk Night, and she reveals the truth about her connection to Yuka in "Fairytale Aroma."

-It's unclear if Jax (and by extension, Yuka) has an eating disorder, or really does forget to eat. This is not the first time we've seen an eating disorder: Helz's friend Serena passed out from one in Morning Breeze.

Fun Facts

-As of right now, there are no plans for the global server to get the Evangelion collab.

-If anyone goes out partying, they should eat food while drinking alcohol. This helps you negate some of the drunkenness effects, as well as prevent any severe stomach aches.

-The runny eggs that Yuka made are most likely cooked over-easy. Jax prefers them over-hard.

-March 20 is the 83rd day of Yuka trying to get Jax to eat something. That makes the 1st day of trying December 30 in a regular year, December 31 in a leap year.

[thepastisalreadywritten]

Research has revealed the most hated Christmas traditions as adults slam Elf on The Shelf and fresh sets of pyjamas.

The study of 2,000 Christmas fans, commissioned by bakery brand St Pierre, also listed the festive traditions from around the world many would like to adopt.

The poll found 27 per cent loathe Santa’s mischievous little helper, while a fifth turn their nose up at getting new pyjamas for the whole family to wear.

Emailing the big man a wish list, receiving a Christmas Eve box, and keeping tabs on Santa’s sleigh via an online tracker also made the list of most disliked modern rituals.

However, receiving a stocking, pantomimes, and eating turkey on Christmas day were among the most loved British festive traditions.

Visiting a Christmas market, carol singing, and leaving milk and cookies out for Santa also made the ‘nice’ list of Christmas activities.

Some also revealed the worldwide traditions they would like to adopt — including tucking into Japan’s fried chicken dinner and marking ‘little Christmas’ on December 23rd like they do in Norway.

Iceland’s tradition of giving a book on Christmas, having a barbecue instead of a turkey dinner with all the trimmings as they do in New Zealand, and enjoying a Christmas Eve sauna in the style of Finland also made the list.

A spokesperson for St Pierre said:

“For a lot of families, keeping up with Christmas traditions is an important part of the season and it is what makes this time of year so special.

However, there are some modern customs, which have made their way into people’s homes over recent years.

It’s been interesting to see the nation’s take on these and even more interesting to hear, which global dining traditions Brits would most like to adopt.”

When comparing countries, 32 per cent think our festive customs are mostly inspired by other cultures, rather than being original.

And 20 per cent even believe certain places are better at celebrating Christmas than we are, with the US, Germany and Norway taking the top spots for this.

As a result, 30 per cent are keen to spend this magical time of year in another country, with 22 per cent already having done so.

The study, carried out via OnePoll, found a third enjoy any rituals that involves food or family recipes and 36 per cent claim most of what they do at home revolves around it.

But 21 per cent have their own rituals outside of what is considered ‘typical,’ with 16 per cent seeing Christmas as the perfect time to start a new tradition.

Although 24 per cent claim they take part in certain things each year because they feel like they have to.

Nearly half (48 per cent) also admitted they still carry out some of their family heritages they experienced as a child.

A spokesperson for St Pierre added:

“It’s great to see food coming in as the number one thing people most enjoy about Christmas – and it’s no wonder as not only is it the perfect time to indulge but it’s also a special time for making memories.

Food is more than a meal on your plate; it’s the nostalgia of growing up, the family recipes that come out once a year, and a wonderful way to bring people together – no matter where we are in the world.”

[las-cinqo-muertas-resort]

Excerpt from Jurassic World Travel Brochure, dated 2015

MASRANI GLOBAL WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME YOU TO JURASSIC WORLD!

You have made an excellent choice in selecting one of our premium resort packages for the Isla Nublar resort. This welcome package contains the following items:

- Your flight tickets on our unique Jurassic World Airbus A380 flight to Costa Rica.

- Your boarding pass for the S.S Wavecrest; transport boat to Isla Nublar.

- Lanyard and Premium Guest pass for VIP access to all island Attractions and 20% off at all shops.

- Your hotel reservation, and all details about staying at our Isla Nublar hotel.

- Commemorative embossed Silver Coin featuring John Hammond.

*Please keep all reservations and tickets safe. You will be unable to access the resort if you loose these.

**Masrani Global is not responsible for any unforeseen consequences regarding your flights including but not limited to; bad weather, pilot strikes, mechanical failure or serious incident

***Commemorative coin contains at-least 40% Silver.

Isla Nublar features the most extraordinary and amazing creatures you will ever see. From our Tyrannosaurus Rex to the majestic Brachiosaurus, our dinosaurs will provide you an experience that you will never have had anywhere else, and never will again. While on our island you will see the whole process, from genetic manufacturing to egg to a full grown animal.

But our animals are just the start of your 65 million year long adventure. Our island resort features some of the best guest facilities available anywhere in the world. Experience 5 star dining in one of our numerous restaurants, offering everything from perfectly cooked steaks to fresh fish caught just out to sea around our island. Wanting something with more atmosphere? Try our bars and clubs to experience the Nublar night life. Need a sit down? Take in a film in our 4-D Cinema. Get up close with our animals in the comfort of the Theatre.

And if our facilities don’t amaze you, then Isla Nublars natural beauty will. Experience miles of perfect beaches, unkept forest and hiking paths around our island. And you never know what you might discover!

And if you think our dinosaurs are incredible, then look forward to our Mosasaur feeding show, every hour in the Marina. Watch from the hotel swimming pools, or take your chances in the splash zone in our unique multi-level viewing galleries. And our mosasaur is not alone. Take to the skies with our Aviary Dome, a huge structure containing the flying reptiles that soared above the ferocious dinosaurs.

NEW FOR THIS YEAR! THE INDOMINUS REX!

As part of our premium package, you will get VIP access to our newest attraction. Our first hybrid dinosaur. Combining the size and ferocity of the T-rex, and the intelligence of a Raptor, the Indominus Rex is set to make its mark as the most awe inspiring creature that the resort has ever played host to.

*Please note: we advise that those guests with weak hearts avoid our large carnivore pens.

YOUR SAFETY

In recent years, a number of commentators have accused Jurassic World of focusing too much on profit, and not giving visitor safety enough of a focus. We at Jurassic World would like to categorically deny these accusations.

Visitor safety is our top priority. We have never under-estimated the risks of the animals that we home on the island.

We have a substantial security division, incorporating our Asset Containment Units. These highly trained and professional individuals under go extensive training programs for all manner of emergencies, from animal escapes to terror attacks. Our teams are supplied with an extensive arsenal of technology developed in-house, perfectly suited for asset containment.

Security Posts are located around the island in easy to find locations should you need to report any concerns. We take any information and reports seriously.

In the unlikely event of a serious incident, our professionally trained staff with guide you to safe zones and guest bunkers, specifically built to withstand a range of incidents including Hurricanes and fires.

And in the even more unlikely event of personal injury, you will be well looked after in our island surgery, where medically trained experts wait on hand to handle any possible injury you may suffer while on our Island.

SAFETY DISCLAIMER

While every effort has been made to ensure your safety, Masrani Global accepts that there are things outside of their control that can not be predicted.

By travelling to the Island you accept the risks of travelling to an Island Resort containing dangerous animals.

Masrani Global will not be held liable for any injuries that result from personal negligence including but not limited to; electric shocks, laceration, loss of limb, drowning, crushed limbs and death through personal negligence.

[elegantlaundry]

The Best Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services Near in Dubai

Elegant laundry and dry-cleaning services are an upcoming laundry chain with a strong legacy, based in Dubai. For over 20 years, we've been providing top-notch service to customers in the United Kingdom. Our company is run by a dedicated proprietor with more than 15 years of experience, steering clear of global corporations. We're all about delivering the finest laundry and dry-cleaning service, Steam Ironing, Carpet Cleaning, staying updated on the latest technology and cleaning methods.

We use the latest tech and follow industry standards to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. We've got the latest equipment and tech, and our team is trained to give you top-notch laundry service any time in Dubai. Plus, we can Pick up and Delivery anywhere in Dubai, and our packages are tailored to fit your budget.

We've got your laundry needs covered, whether it's for individuals and homes or large commercial establishments in the Dubai. For individuals, we offer a variety of laundry packages tailored to your specific needs, whether it's your kids' school uniforms, daily and office wear, or even curtains and carpets.

In addition, we provide top-notch commercial laundry services in Dubai that cater to a wide range of businesses, including large corporations, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, schools, hostels, malls. We're your one-stop solution for all your laundry needs delivering quality and convenience across anywhere in Dubai.

Why Choose Laundry Services in Dubai?

EXPERT CLEANER

We are experts in professional laundry services. We ensure that your fabric is taken care of in the best possible fashion.  We have the latest laundry and dry clean equipment and we follow industry best practices.

AFFORDABLE PRICE

We offer customers the best services. At the same time, our pricing is highly affordable. We offer a range of laundry services that fit your diverse requirements.

EXPRESS DELIVERY

We are committed to delivering your fresh clothes faster. Our express delivery services guarantee you the shortest turnaround time. You need it very urgently? We can consider it under our express delivery service.

Next Gen. Payment

We ensure that you need not worry about payments. You can pay online or you can pay via cash or card on delivery.

[newstfionline]

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

What to Expect When You’re Expecting the U.N. General Assembly (Foreign Policy) As world leaders descend on the United Nations headquarters in New York City, the international body is fighting to maintain its relevance in a world it wasn’t built for when it was established nearly 80 years ago. Global powers are increasingly circumventing the unwieldy U.N. system to conduct multilateral diplomacy, such as through the G-7, G-20, and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) blocs. Eight years ago, the U.N. outlined an ambitious batch of goals to tackle global poverty, gender equality, climate change, and other pressing global issues by 2030. But so far, the world is way off target in meeting those goals. The war in Ukraine has frontally challenged one of the U.N.’s most fundamental purposes, enshrined in its foundational charter, of averting major wars. The Western world’s laser focus on the conflict in Ukraine, meanwhile, has frustrated other countries in the global south as other dire humanitarian catastrophes—conflict in Sudan, coups across Africa, the migration crisis in Central America, and a lot of climate-related disasters—struggle for resources and high-level attention.

Canada’s surging food prices (Reuters) Canada’s plan to bring down food prices by tightening regulation could backfire and fail, raising the cost of doing business in the country without providing relief to consumers, lawyers and economists said. Canada’s weak competition law has been long blamed for allowing a few players to dominate industries ranging from banks to telecoms and groceries. Last week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to amend the Competition Act to help bring down prices. Trudeau’s move comes as many Canadians reel under an affordability crisis with food prices jumping 25% since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. At the same time, the central bank’s efforts to bring down inflation by raising interest rates to a 22-year-high have pushed up mortgage costs for homeowners and made buying a home unaffordable for others.

U.S. National Debt Tops $33 Trillion for First Time (NYT) America’s gross national debt exceeded $33 trillion for the first time on Monday, providing a stark reminder of the country’s shaky fiscal trajectory at a moment when Washington faces the prospect of a government shutdown this month amid another fight over federal spending. It came as Congress appeared to be faltering in its efforts to fund the government ahead of a Sept. 30 deadline. Unless Congress can pass a dozen appropriations bills or agree to a short-term extension of federal funding at existing levels, the United States will face its first government shutdown since 2019. The debt is on track to top $50 trillion by the end of the decade, as interest on the debt mounts and the cost of the nation’s social safety net programs keeps growing.

Brazil’s Lula pitches his nation—and himself—as fresh leader for Global South (AP) “Brazil is back.” That has been Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s refrain for the better part of the last year, with the president deploying the snappy slogan to cast Brazil—and himself—as a leader of the Global South no longer content to abide the world’s outdated workings. During Lula’s travels, he has pushed for global governance that gives greater heft to the Global South and advocating diminishing the dollar’s dominance in trade. He has made clear that Brazil has no intention of siding with the United States or China, the world’s two largest economies and Brazil’s two biggest trading partners. And he has refused to join Washington and Western Europe in backing Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion, instead calling for a club of nations to mediate peace talks. After the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s arrest, Lula said he would review Brazil’s membership in the court.

Germany’s economy struggles (AP) For most of this century, Germany racked up one economic success after another, dominating global markets for high-end products like luxury cars and industrial machinery, selling so much to the rest of the world that half the economy ran on exports. Jobs were plentiful, the government’s financial coffers grew as other European countries drowned in debt, and books were written about what other countries could learn from Germany. No longer. Now, Germany is the world’s worst-performing major developed economy, with both the International Monetary Fund and European Union expecting it to shrink this year. It follows Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the loss of Moscow’s cheap natural gas—an unprecedented shock to Germany’s energy-intensive industries, long the manufacturing powerhouse of Europe. Germany risks “deindustrialization” as high energy costs and government inaction on other chronic problems threaten to send new factories and high-paying jobs elsewhere, said Christian Kullmann, CEO of major German chemical company Evonik Industries AG.

Evidence Suggests Ukrainian Missile Caused Market Tragedy (NYT) The Sept. 6 missile strike on Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine was one of the deadliest in the country in months, killing at least 15 civilians and injuring more than 30 others. The weapon’s payload of metal fragments struck a market, piercing windows and walls and wounding some victims beyond recognition. Less than two hours later, President Volodymyr Zelensky blamed Russian “terrorists” for the attack, and many media outlets followed suit. Throughout its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has repeatedly and systematically attacked civilians and struck schools, markets and residences as a deliberate tactic to instill fear in the populace. But evidence collected and analyzed by The New York Times, including missile fragments, satellite imagery, witness accounts and social media posts, strongly suggests the catastrophic strike was the result of an errant Ukrainian air defense missile fired by a Buk launch system. Air defense experts say missiles like the one that hit the market can go off course for a variety of reasons.

In Moscow, the War Is Background Noise, but Ever-Present (NYT) Metro trains are running smoothly in Moscow, as usual, but getting around the city center by car has become more complicated, and annoying, because anti-drone radar interferes with navigation apps. Almost 19 months after Russia invaded Ukraine, Muscovites are experiencing dual realities: The war has faded into background noise, causing few major disruptions, and yet it remains ever-present in their daily lives. There is little anxiety among residents over the drone strikes that have hit Moscow this summer. No alarm sirens to warn of a possible attack. The city continues to grow. Cranes dot the skyline, and there are high-rise buildings going up all over town. But for some, the effects of war are landing harder. Nina, 79, a pensioner who was shopping at an Auchan supermarket in northwestern Moscow, said that she had stopped buying red meat entirely, and that she could almost never afford to buy a whole fish. Nina said that sanctions and ubiquitous construction projects were some reasons for higher prices, but the main reason, she said, was “because a lot is spent on war.”

India, Canada expel diplomats over accusations Delhi killed Sikh separatist (Washington Post) India expelled a Canadian diplomat on Tuesday in a tit-for-tat move after Canadian officials accused Indian government operatives of gunning down a Sikh separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in British Columbia and threw out an Indian diplomat they identified as an intelligence officer. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegation of assassination, made during an explosive speech before Parliament on Monday, sent relations between the two nations tumbling toward their lowest point but also held broader ramifications for ties between the U.S.-led alliance and India, which the Biden administration has assiduously courted as a strategic counterweight to China. The Indian government issued a statement Tuesday rejecting Trudeau’s accusation as “absurd and motivated.” India’s Foreign Ministry went on to say that the allegations “seek to shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The inaction of the Canadian Government on this matter has been a long-standing and continuing concern.” (BBC) India has been increasing the pressure on countries with significant Sikh communities, like Canada, Australia and the UK, saying they are failing to tackle what it calls "Sikh extremism." Mr. Nijjar is the third prominent Sikh figure to have died unexpectedly in recent months.

Libya’s flood turmoil (Worldcrunch) Hundreds of protesters rallied in Libya’s Derna on Monday, setting fire to the house of the man who was the city’s mayor at the time of the flood, to demand accountability one week after a flood that killed thousands of residents. Meanwhile, the UN has warned that a disease outbreak could create “a second devastating crisis” as people are falling ill from contaminated water.

Crisis and Bailout: The Tortuous Cycle Stalking Nations in Debt (NYT) Emmanuel Cherry, the chief executive of an association of Ghanaian construction companies, sat in a cafe at the edge of Accra Children’s Park, near the derelict Ferris wheel and kiddie train, as he tallied up how much money government entities owe thousands of contractors. Before interest, he said, the back payments add up to 15 billion cedis, roughly $1.3 billion. “Most of the contractors are home,” Mr. Cherry said. Their workers have been laid off. Like many others in this West African country, the contractors have to wait in line for their money. Teacher trainees complain they are owed two months of back pay. Independent power producers that have warned of major blackouts are owed $1.58 billion. The government is essentially bankrupt. After defaulting on billions of dollars owed to foreign lenders in December, the administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo had no choice but to agree to a $3 billion loan from the lender of last resort, the International Monetary Fund. It was the 17th time Ghana has been compelled to turn to the fund since it gained independence in 1957. The tortuous cycle of crisis and bailout has plagued dozens of poor and middle-income countries throughout Africa, Latin America and Asia for decades.

Many of today’s unhealthy foods were brought to you by Big Tobacco (Washington Post) For decades, tobacco companies hooked people on cigarettes by making their products more addictive. Now, a new study suggests that tobacco companies may have used a similar strategy to hook people on processed foods. In the 1980s, tobacco giants Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds acquired the major food companies Kraft, General Foods and Nabisco, allowing tobacco firms to dominate America’s food supply and reap billions in sales from popular brands such as Oreo cookies, Kraft Macaroni & Cheese and Lunchables. By the 2000s, the tobacco giants spun off their food companies and largely exited the food industry—but not before leaving a lasting legacy on the foods that we eat. The new research, published in the journal Addiction, focuses on the rise of “hyper-palatable” foods, which contain potent combinations of fat, sodium, sugar and other additives that can drive people to crave and overeat them. The Addiction study found that in the decades when the tobacco giants owned the world’s leading food companies, the foods that they sold were far more likely to be hyper-palatable than similar foods not owned by tobacco companies. In the past 30 years, hyper-palatable foods have spread rapidly into the food supply, coinciding with a surge in obesity and diet-related diseases. In America, the steepest increase in the prevalence of hyper-palatable foods occurred between 1988 and 2001—the era when Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds owned the world’s leading food companies.

Danish artist told to repay museum €67,000 after turning in blank canvasses (BBC) A Danish artist has been ordered to return nearly 500,000 kroner ($72,000; £58,000) to a museum after giving it two blank canvasses for a project he named Take the Money and Run. The Kunsten Museum in Aalborg had intended for Jens Haaning to embed the banknotes in two pieces of art in 2021. Instead, he gave it blank canvasses and then told Danish media: "The work is that I have taken their money." A court has now ordered him to return the cash, minus 8% for expenses.

[sataniccapitalist]

[scotianostra]

Scottish musician Jimmy McCulloch guitarist was born on June 4th 1953 in Dumbarton.

Jimmy knew he wanted to be a musician from a young age and was in his first band by the time he was 11 in group called the Jaygars, with his older brother Jack. The brothers progressed together to the group later One In A Million, who released two singles, supported The Who and played at the famous 14-Hour Technicolour Dream event at Alexandra Palace in London — still two months before Jim’s 14th birthday.

In 1969, McCulloch joined Thunderclap Newman, whose Andy Newman was friends with the guys out of the Who, Pete Townshend produced and played guitar bass guitar on their only hit, the one hit wonder Something in the Air. The group didn’t last long but the song remains one that is often heard on the golden oldies shows nowadays, it gave McCulloch a valuable springboard as a guitarist and writer, and in the early 1970s he was an in-demand session player, he later joined the cult Scottish group Stone the Crows

But it was Jimmy’s time in Wings that gave him the biggest global recognition. Recruited by McCartney to play on the Susie and the Red Stripes project for his wife Linda (which produced the single ‘Seaside Woman’), he became an official member of Wings in 1974. He appeared on the ‘Junior’s Farm’ single, a top three hit in the US that made the UK top 20. He stayed with them for around three years, but always a man with itchy feet he jumped ship when the chance to play with the reformed Small Faces came about.

Jimmy died of a drug-related heart attack in north London in September 1979, and we can only wonder about what else he would have gone on to achieve. “He was always a little dangerous,” Paul McCartney said of the fresh-faced, hard-living guitarist. “In the end, he was just too dangerous for his own good.”

I posted Something in the Air last year, so here’s Wino Junko a track he wrote and sung lead vocals for Wings. It has been described and it’s said to having a hint of autobiography to it….it’s a very good song. It’s about the dangers of drugs, unfortunately for McCulloch, he would die from a drug overdose on 27th September 1979.

[ncisfranchise-source]

TORONTO, August 26, 2024 – Today, Global announced premiere dates for its fall 2024 schedule chock full of star-studded new series alongside 12 of spring’s Top 20 programs* and more. The season kicks off on Global with Canada’s #1 program Survivor back for Season 47 starting Wednesday, September 18 at 8 p.m. ET/PT with a special two-hour premiere (followed by weekly 90-minute episodes). Then, Canada’s #1 drama 9-1-1 returns for an eighth season on Thursday, September 26 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Celebrating its iconic 50th season, Canada’s #1 show in late night, Saturday Night Live, also premieres on Global this fall. Global’s brand-new slate of scripted programming launches with a special sneak preview of Matlock starring Oscar® winner Kathy Bates on Sunday, September 22 at 8 p.m. ET/PT before settling into its regular day and time on Thursday, October 17 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Canadian-produced mystery, Murder in a Small Town, starring Rossif Sutherland and Kristin Kreuk debuts Tuesday, September 24 at 8 p.m. ET/PT with a one-time 90-minute episode then moves to 9 p.m. ET/PT on Tuesday, October 8 before landing in its regular day and time on Wednesday, October 16 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The latest addition to the NCIS franchise starring Austin Stowell as a young Agent Gibbs, NCIS: Origins, premieres Monday, October 14 at 9 p.m. ET/PT with a one-time two-hour episode before moving to its regular time slot at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Monday, October 21. Lastly, big laughs from Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. come to Global with Poppa’s House Monday, October 21 at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT.

“Whether it’s Kathy Bates stealing scenes in the reimagined Matlock, a nostalgic look back at iconic TV character Leroy Jethro Gibbs in NCIS: Origins, the laughs that only the Wayans can deliver in Poppa’s House, or the idyllic British Columbia setting of Murder in a Small Town, Global’s schedule offers a fresh lineup of standout content this fall,” said Jennifer Abrams, Senior Vice President Programming & Multiplatform, Corus Entertainment. “After a successful spring, this fall’s lineup promises another exceptional season, filled with the best new shows, beloved returning favorites, exclusive specials, and thrilling reality competitions.”

Global’s returning hits kick into high gear when the worldwide phenomenon NCIS premieres on Monday, October 14 at 8 p.m. ET/PT (regular timeslot 9 p.m. ET/PT begins Monday, October 21). Action-packed FBI night is back starting Tuesday, October 15 at 8 p.m. ET/PT with FBI, followed by FBI: International at 9 p.m. ET/PT and FBI: Most Wanted at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Back for sophomore seasons, the star-studded anthology series Accused returns Tuesday, October 8 at 8 p.m. ET/PT and delightfully quirky procedural Elsbeth premieres Thursday, October 17 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Explosive Friday nights return starting with S.W.A.T. on Friday, October 18 at 8 p.m. ET/PT then Fire Country at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Lastly, The Equalizer is back starting Sunday, October 20 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Next, the laughs return to Global this fall with award-winning comedy Abbott Elementary (Wednesday, October 9 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT), plus crowd-pleasers Ghosts (Thursday, October 17 at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT) and The Neighborhood (Monday, October 21 at 8 p.m. ET/PT).

Other perennial hits returning this fall on Global include 48 Hours (Saturday, September 21 at 9 p.m. ET/PT with a two-hour premiere), 60 Minutes (Sunday, September 15 at 7:30pm ET/7pm PT), The Floor (Sunday, September 29 at 9:30 p.m. ET / 9 p.m. PT), Crime Beat (Friday, October 18 at 10 p.m. ET/PT), plus much more including exclusive specials Secret Celebrity Renovation (Friday, September 20 at 8 p.m. ET/PT) and The Greatest @Home Videos (Friday, September 27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT). For series descriptions of Global’s new series and a full list of Global’s premiere dates click here.

Global’s lineup of hit series are available to stream anytime on STACKTV, the Global TV App and GlobalTV.com.

Global is a Corus Entertainment Network and is available through all major TV distributors, including: Bell, Cogeco, Eastlink, Rogers, SaskTel, Shaw, Shaw Direct, Telus, Videotron and STACKTV, streaming available on Amazon Prime Video Channels, Bell Fibe TV app, FuboTV, Rogers Ignite TV and Ignite SmartStream. The Global TV App is available on iOS, Android, Chromecast, Android TV, Apple TV, LG Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TVs, Roku streaming players, Roku TV™ models, and at watch.globaltv.com.

[mbabtechadmissionexpert]

Comprehensive Guide to SIBM Bengaluru: Fees, Admission Process, and Course Duration

Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM) Bengaluru stands out as one of the premier business schools in India, offering a world-class MBA program that combines academic rigor with industry relevance. Situated in the thriving tech city of Bengaluru, SIBM has built a strong reputation for producing business leaders who excel in various sectors.

Fees:

The total fee for the MBA program at SIBM Bengaluru is approximately INR 20-22 lakhs for the two-year course. This includes tuition fees, hostel fees, and other academic expenses. The fee structure is competitive, considering the high quality of education, infrastructure, and opportunities for placements.

Admission Process:

Eligibility:

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST candidates).

Final-year students can also apply, provided they complete their degree with the required aggregate before the program begins.

Entrance Exam:

Admission to SIBM Bengaluru is primarily based on the SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test) score. SNAP is a national-level management entrance exam conducted by Symbiosis International University.

Shortlisting:

Based on SNAP scores, candidates are shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process, which includes Group Exercise (GE), Written Ability Test (WAT), and Personal Interview (PI).

Final Selection:

The final selection is based on the cumulative performance in SNAP, GE, WAT, and PI, along with academic background, work experience (if any), and extracurricular achievements.

Application Process:

Candidates must first register for the SNAP test and then apply separately to SIBM Bengaluru. The application form is available online, and applicants need to fill in their academic and personal details, upload necessary documents, and pay the application fee.

Duration:

The MBA program at SIBM Bengaluru spans over two years, divided into four semesters. The curriculum is designed to offer a balance between core management subjects and elective specializations, enabling students to tailor their education to their career goals. The first year focuses on foundational courses, while the second year allows students to specialize in areas such as Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, and Operations.

Why Choose SIBM Bengaluru?

Strong Industry Connect:

Located in the Silicon Valley of India, SIBM Bengaluru leverages its proximity to leading multinational corporations and startups, providing students with unparalleled industry exposure.

Experienced Faculty:

The faculty at SIBM Bengaluru consists of experienced academicians and industry professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom.

Diverse Peer Group:

With students from diverse academic backgrounds and professional experiences, the peer learning environment at SIBM Bengaluru is dynamic and enriching.

Global Exposure:

SIBM Bengaluru offers various international collaborations and exchange programs, allowing students to gain global perspectives in management.

Robust Placement Support:

The institute has a dedicated placement cell that works tirelessly to ensure that students secure internships and final placements with top companies. SIBM Bengaluru has an impressive placement record, with students being recruited by leading firms across industries.

Conclusion:

SIBM Bengaluru is not just a place to earn an MBA degree; it’s an institution that shapes future business leaders with a global mindset. With a comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and strong industry connections, SIBM Bengaluru is the ideal choice for aspiring managers who wish to make a mark in the corporate world. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a working professional looking to advance your career, SIBM Bengaluru offers the right blend of academic excellence and practical experience to help you achieve your goals.

[callofdutygame24]

Vanguard: The Perfect Blend of CoD Experiences

Yo, Vanguard’s killstreaks got a sick WWII glow-up, with dope additions like a flamethrower Juggernaut and attack and guard dogs. If you’re looking to buy Xbox games that offer this kind of intense and exciting gameplay, Vanguard is definitely worth checking out! The guard dogs are a major W—they run around on their own and only go after the enemy, which is super clutch in hardcore mode. Unlike other killstreaks that might accidentally mess up your team, the attack dogs are straight-up focused on wrecking the enemy and keeping your squad safe. Honestly, Vanguard might be the GOAT of CoD games I’ve played. After grinding out hundreds of hours in Modern Warfare and Black Ops Cold War, Vanguard is probably my top pick. It takes all the best parts from the past games and nails the balance. I had a few lag issues, but I’m pretty sure that was my bad, not the servers. If you were vibing with Modern Warfare but not feeling Cold War, or if you were into Cold War but not so much Modern Warfare, Vanguard’s got you covered. It’s looking fire, sounds dope, and feels amazing. Vanguard might just be the best CoD ever, with its jaw-dropping graphics on the new consoles and perfectly balanced gunplay. It’s got a fresh spin on the WWII and D-Day vibes, making both the solo campaign and multiplayer straight-up lit.

Diverse Heroes: Arthur Kingsley and Lucas Riggs Break New Ground in Vanguard

As you dive into the Special Forces soldiers' stories, you get to step into their shoes and play through the epic moments that shaped them into elite warriors. If you’re looking to buy PS5 games, Vanguard offers an immersive experience that lets you fully engage with these characters' transformative journeys. You’re not just battling through key WWII turning points; you’re experiencing it all through the eyes of a global squad—Task Force One. You’ll switch between characters and then head to the final showdown in Berlin, where you and your squad have to band together and face off against the Nazis in their last stand. The story’s so gripping it’ll make you wanna dive into multiplayer, which is exactly what a killer single-player campaign should do. The campaign spans four major battle zones: the Middle East, the Pacific, Berlin, Stalingrad, and Normandy. You’ll rock the role of four key characters from the Special Forces. It kicks off with Arthur Kingsley, a Black British Airborne soldier who parachutes into France. I’m here for the fact that Kingsley, who faces Nazi racism, is the squad leader—totally triggering the racist villains. This character is based on a real-life hero. Then there’s Lucas Riggs, an Aussie soldier in the Middle East taking on Rommel’s forces. He and his squad are rebels who don’t exactly follow orders but bring serious heat when they go off-script and get results.

Dynamic Battle Modes and Tactical Destruction: Vanguard's New Multiplayer Experience

The Sledgehammer crew dug deep into stories and characters, and a bunch of them make their way into multiplayer—where Call of Duty really flexes. That’s part of why the game has sold over 400 million copies total and continues to rack up 25 to 35 million copies a year. Even though Battlefield 2042 is dropping on November 19 and is all about that futuristic modern warfare vibe, Vanguard holds its own. Sure, some players might think it’s less lit to go in with WWII gear compared to modern weaponry, especially if they’re all about Warzone. But Vanguard’s multiplayer game is putting in work. It’s got different battle modes like tactical 6v6, assault with 20 to 48 players, and Blitz for massive chaos with a ton of players. Plus, there’s “tactical destruction” where you can blast through or demolish wooden barriers, kinda like what you’ve seen in Battlefield. Vanguard also rolls out 20 multiplayer maps and new modes like Champion Hill, which throws you into a small map with a Gulag-style fight and a limited number of players.

Vanguard’s Solid Gameplay Meets Some Technical Hiccups: A Balanced Review

The details are straight-up mind-blowing. At one point, you’re sprinting through a Berlin building under siege, and an explosion rattles the place, making a massive metal Nazi cross (not a swastika) drop with a loud clunk. The environments are next-level too, with little touches like flocks of birds adding to the realism. It almost feels like a cinematographer directed the game, and that’s kinda true. The gunplay is solid, and I definitely noticed the differences when using the Gunsmith in multiplayer to tweak my weapon with new attachments. That’s clutch for multiplayer, where it can feel like a grind to get your gear just right. The maps make sense, and the connections with Warzone and Zombies fit well too. It’s like the Call of Duty universe has an architect, and everything’s falling into place. Now, we just need a Call of Duty metaverse. Call of Duty: Vanguard hits the sweet spot with its historical vibes, solid gameplay, variety, and engaging story. It pulls everything together in a way that makes sense. It’s not quite as groundbreaking as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, which was a game-changer for the franchise with its depth and intense themes. Vanguard’s a solid entry, but the combat stutters make me wonder if it’s as polished as it could be. The game’s crashed a few times, especially in Blitz modes with lots of players. Still, it’s held up really well in multiplayer, and I enjoyed grinding through to the first Prestige level with a 0.84 kill/death ratio. The more I played, the more I got into it.

[eximpedia1]

Mango Export from India: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

India, renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, is the world's largest producer of mangoes, contributing over 40% of the global supply. This tropical fruit, cherished for its sweet and tangy flavor, is in high demand internationally, making mango export from India a thriving business. In this article, we will delve into the growing mango export market, explore the most popular mango varieties, review recent export data, and identify the top countries importing mangoes from India. Additionally, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to successfully export mangoes and connect with global buyers.

The Growing Market for Mango Export from India

India’s mango export market has witnessed remarkable growth over the years. The country’s vast production, coupled with its ability to cater to both fresh and processed mango products, has positioned India as a leading exporter. The primary mango-producing states include Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, and Gujarat, each contributing to the country's substantial mango output.

The harvest season, spanning from March to July, is a crucial period for mango exports. Mangoes are exported in various forms, such as fresh mangoes, mango pulp, juice, and canned mango products. According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), mango export from India were valued at USD 130.87 million in 2019-20, a significant 25% increase from the previous year. This upward trend underscores the growing global appetite for Indian mangoes.

Mango Export Data: 2023-2024 Overview

In the fiscal year 2023-2024, India exported 32,104.09 metric tons (MT) of fresh mangoes, generating revenue of Rs. 495.46 crores, or approximately USD 60.14 million. Based on mango export data a substantial increase from the previous fiscal year, 22,963.78 MT of mangoes were exported, valued at USD 48.53 million. Notably, in just the first five months of 2023-24, India shipped 27,330.02 MT of mangoes, valued at USD 47.98 million, indicating a robust start to the year.

One of the most impressive success stories is India's mango export to the United States, which saw a 19% increase over the previous year. In the first five months alone, India exported 2,043.60 MT of mangoes to the U.S., highlighting the country's strong demand for this fruit.

Top Mango Varieties Exported from India

India is home to a diverse range of mango varieties, each offering a unique

flavor profile that appeals to different markets across the globe. The most popular varieties exported from India include:

Alphonso Mango (Hapus): Often referred to as the "King of Mangoes," Alphonso mangoes are prized for their rich, creamy texture and sweet, aromatic flavor. These mangoes are particularly popular in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Kesar Mango: Known for its vibrant orange flesh and sweet taste, Kesar mangoes are slightly smaller than Alphonso but are equally cherished. They are primarily exported to Middle Eastern countries.

Totapuri Mango: Recognizable by its oblong shape and tangy, slightly sour taste, Totapuri mangoes are widely used in the production of mango pulp, making them a staple in processed mango exports.

Badami Mango: Often compared to Alphonso for its similar flavor, Badami mangoes are popular in the domestic market and are gradually gaining traction in the export market.

Banganapalli Mango (Safeda): This large, oval-shaped mango variety is known for its sweet taste and firm texture, making it ideal for both fresh consumption and processing.

These varieties, along with others like Rajapuri and Green Mango, contribute significantly to India's mango export volume. Exporters seeking to enter the market should be well-versed in these varieties to cater to specific international tastes and preferences.

Top Countries Importing Mangoes from India

India’s mango exports reach various parts of the world, with a few countries standing out as the largest importers:

United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE is the largest importer of Indian mangoes, accounting for around 23% of India's total mango exports. The country’s large expatriate population, particularly from South Asia, drives this demand.

United States of America (USA): The USA is the second-largest importer, receiving about 16% of India’s mango exports. The increasing popularity of Indian mangoes in the U.S. is a testament to their superior quality and taste.

Saudi Arabia: With 9% of total mango exports from India, Saudi Arabia is another significant market, where Indian mangoes are a staple in both fresh and processed forms.

United Kingdom (UK): The UK accounts for 8% of India’s mango exports, with Alphonso mangoes being particularly popular among the Indian diaspora.

Nepal: Sharing a close geographical and cultural connection with India, Nepal imports about 7% of India’s mango exports, mainly for domestic consumption.

Other notable importers include Bangladesh, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain. Exporters should target these markets by understanding their specific requirements and preferences.

List of mango exporters in India

Here is a list of some of the leading mango exporters in India:

Reliance Industries Limited

All Season Exports

Rainbow International

Organic India Private Limited

Kay Bee Exports

Asian Fresh

ABNN Fresh Expo LLP

M.K. Exports

Usha Edibles Private Limited

Rushika Food Products Private Limited

Indian mangoes are highly sought after in the international market, and these exporters are key players in meeting that global demand. For a more comprehensive list of mango exporters in India, including detailed export data, you can visit Exportimportdata.in. This platform provides extensive information on all major mango exporters from India.

Steps to Export Mangoes from India

Exporting mangoes from India can be a lucrative venture if approached methodically. Here are the essential steps:

Register with APEDA: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is the nodal agency for promoting agricultural exports. Exporters must register with APEDA to obtain an exporter's code and access various export incentives.

Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Exporters need to secure several documents, including a phytosanitary certificate, certificate of origin, and certificate of analysis, to ensure compliance with the importing country's regulations.

Find Buyers: Networking through trade fairs, online marketplaces like EximPedia.app, and direct contact with importers are effective ways to find buyers for your mangoes. Platforms like EximPedia also offer updated insights on market trends and buyer lists.

Arrange Transportation and Packaging: Mangoes are perishable and require proper packaging and transportation, usually in refrigerated containers, to maintain their freshness during transit.

Adhere to Quality Standards: Ensuring that mangoes meet the quality standards set by the importing country is crucial. This includes being free from pests and diseases and maintaining the required sweetness and texture.

Connecting with Global Mango Importers

Finding reliable importers is key to successful mango export. EximPedia.app is a leading global trade platform where exporters can analyze updated statistics on mango exports, connect with buyers, and access detailed databases for over 130 countries, including major importers like Vietnam, Turkey, Belgium, and Norway.

Conclusion

Mango export from India presents a vast opportunity for businesses looking to tap into the global market. By following the necessary steps, such as registering with APEDA, securing the right permits, and adhering to quality standards, exporters can capitalize on the growing demand for Indian mangoes. Understanding the preferences of different markets and choosing the right mango varieties can further enhance the success of your export venture.

India’s dominance in mango production, combined with strategic export practices, ensures that Indian mangoes continue to delight consumers worldwide. For detailed export data and more insights on how to succeed in this industry, platforms like EximPedia.app offer invaluable resources to guide your business to new heights.