"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" To keep reading, please log in to your account, create a free account, or simply fill out the form below.Enzo Maresca has lifted the lid on Leicester’s promotion celebrations and revealed Jamie Vardy and co still know how to party. Maresca led the Foxes to the Sky Bet Championship title last season before joining Chelsea over the summer. Leicester famously toasted their improbable Premier League success in 2016 with an impromptu bash at Vardy’s house. But the venue for last April’s party was not at the striker’s abode, but at Maresca’s house when the players turned up unannounced at 2am. Maresca recalled: “The best present I had from last season was when we got promoted and they arrived at my home. All the team. “This showed the connection between the players; they could go for a party at a different place but they all arrived at my home. It was a fantastic connection and I will always be thankful for them. “I was at home celebrating with my staff and my family and about two o’clock in the morning all the squad was there. We celebrated all together. Last night at Enzo’s 🏡 💙 pic.twitter.com/dqP8BFsDn3 — Leicester City (@LCFC) April 27, 2024 “When I was a player and I won things I never thought to go to the manager’s home. That shows the connection.” Similarly to when they clinched the Premier League crown, Leicester were not actually playing when they found out they were promoted after Leeds lost at QPR. “To be honest I was at home watching the game and when it finished all the staff came over – and later the players,” added the Italian. “They didn’t knock on the door, they were in the garden and knocked on the window. What time did they leave? I don’t remember.” Vardy might not be having a party at the end of this season but he is still banging in the goals at 37 and Maresca rates the striker even more highly than England’s two top goalscorers – Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney. “People don’t realise how good he is,” added Maresca. “I know England have been quite lucky because of Kane and Rooney, this type of striker, they are fantastic. “But Jamie is, if you ask me, the best one.” Maresca returns to the King Power Stadium for the first time with Chelsea on Saturday, but he will be without captain Reece James due to a hamstring problem.
T oday is the last Monday of this year. Next Monday will be January 6th in 2025, a brand new year. The 76 year curse ended on September 21st and November 14th. Blessing for the people is already out there even before the arrival of 2025. Maybe people have already made their New Year resolutions by now and maybe they are still thinking about it. It is good if they can connect all their New Year resolutions with the current situation of the country and make some new and different New Year resolutions which they never made before. The best thing Sri Lankan people can do as individuals is connecting their personal New Year Resolutions with the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ Programme as much as possible. Being more law abiding person is another New Year resolution that can be made. All Sri Lankan people can make a common New Year Resolution and refrain from making all public places dirty in 2025. One of the aims of ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ project is maintaining cleanliness in the country where steps will be taken to ensure clean bus stands, railway stations, buses, trains, lavatories, rivers, beaches etc. If people do not make those places dirty, there will be no need to clean them again and again spending public funds. When considering the current situation of our country, we can point out certain very important New Year resolutions for the people. But the people of this country should be a little bit selfless in order to adopt them without being extremely selfish as they did during the past 76 years. On the other hand, adopting those definitely changes their private lives as well. Therefore no one can say the following New Year resolutions are not suitable or useless for people or the country. We, Sri Lankans can adopt a New Year resolution which will change the future of our country as a whole. It is ‘I am working hard and honestly’. This New Year resolution especially matches the public servants who did not work hard and honestly during the past 76 years. For a change, they can focus on completing their work load on time and properly without shortcomings without focusing on spending eight hours in five days and putting their signature in the finger print machines or in the attendance registry. They can also avoid taking unnecessary leave and refrain from stealing public properties as they did before. Another New Year resolution can be not bribing anyone for anything. It should be ordinary people of this country who should get rid of bribery and corruption. The people should not expect the President and the Government to do it without their contribution because it is the ordinary people who bribe anyone possible in order to get things done and in order to avoid formal procedures such as waiting in queues and lists. As long as the ordinary people offer bribes, bribery and corruption will exist here in Sri Lanka. You can stop certain individuals such as individuals who sell religions, who sell myths, who sell all types of fake stuff etc, faith, confidence, assurance etc. snatching your hard earned money. According to this New Year resolution, you need a very simple thing to do. That is completely stopping believing crooks everywhere no matter what they are connected to. It can be religions, supernatural things, fake financial institutions, fake businesses, etc. No need to believe anyone or anything other than state institutions, state officials, reputed private institutions with over five decades of history, etc. If you do this you will not need to spend your valuable time and money on streets taking part in various protests etc and demanding the Government to solve your problems. The other thing is it is your own power which will make you strong. People just get ‘mental strength’ by hanging onto someone or something in hard times to gain (their own) mental strength. There is another New Year resolution which is connected to the above one. That is ‘Protecting yourself from mass media and social media. First of all this will save all your hard earned money. It will save your health because the less you use those will have a lesser negative mental impact. you will buy less unnecessary stuff. You will make more and more accurate decisions because what you will consider when making decisions is what you experienced and not what told to you by the main media and social media. You can spend a part of your valuable time double checking certain information relevant to you before believing. Your mind and brain can have more space to process what is essential because the dirt filled into your mind and brain through main media and social media will not fill up inside your head and heart. Rupees from your bank account will stop flowing into the accounts of youtubers who fill your mind with rubbish. In another way you can get rid of watching YouTube programmes which offer nothing but dirt and gossip about others. Generally almost all Youtubers are mud slingers and they earn dollars by selling mud and gossip. Only qualified MBBS doctors, other healthcare professionals such as physiotherapists, engineers, other qualified and recognised professionals have something valuable to offer. For youngsters, a New Year’s resolution can be made to protect themselves from all types of crooks. They can make a New Year resolution, I will not take any nude pictures of myself. This will save the lives and heartache of the majority of youngsters and maybe adults. Why should we take our nude photos? We are NOT lunatics to take our own nude photos. Why should we send them to someone else to prove our true love or whatever? This year parents, guardians and teachers should tell children that no nude photos should be taken and they need to prove themselves only to their parents and no one else on this earth. They should tell them that if anyone genuinely loves them, they will prove their love and NOT ask for your son’s or daughter’s nude photo. It is as simple as that. The police will have less work ! There is another New Year resolution which can be attractive for many. It is changing the system of yourself and your home. For example, you can give something to eat for your kids during the school interval and order them not to eat anything at all from outside or from outsiders. But you need to wake up a little bit earlier than before to make some food. This will protect your kids from all types of diseases and also from the illicit drug ‘Ice’ and save money. Unfortunately present day kids listen to all except their beloved parents. First of all the parents should change this ill system and make their children listen to them only. If an outsider can win the heart of your child, it is your problem and not the problem of your child or that outsider. Nowadays rarely housewives cook meals for their children and husbands who leave home early in the morning. This habit of sleeping late and getting up late have created many problems in the present day society and made the entire society unhealthy. Maybe housewives can make a New Year’s resolution and wake up a little bit early from 2025. This year we can stop buying non essential food and other items advertised over the television. The parents can train their kids to eat beans without adding artificial cancerous substances. You can realise yourself that no actress, cricketer, his wife or any other public figure uses what they advertise and they use things that are never revealed to people by the media. Powdered milk can be totally stopped. All these need courage and talent to find healthy substitutes but nothing else. The other most important New Year resolution can be focusing on what you should do and what you should not do while totally ignoring what others should do and what others should not do. This is because you cannot control others but you can control yourself. In addition, you can connect this with the present situation of the country. You can clean up your anti-social behaviours, you can get rid of secret toxic habits, you can get rid of your jealousy towards others, you can stop finding faults of others and start finding your own faults etc. You can take care of your parents. You work, you earn and you eat. Only the blessings or curses come free of charge. The best New Year Resolution is making a promise to look after yourself !
Audio series platform Pocket FM achieves over 500% revenue surge globally 11-27-2024 10:30 PM CET | Leisure, Entertainment, Miscellaneous Press release from: ABNewswire Clocked $127.05 million in revenue, losses down 21%; Inches Closer to Profitability Los Angeles - November 27, 2024 - Audio series platform Pocket FM has reported a strong financial performance for FY 2024, achieving a global revenue of $127.05 million, a remarkable 496% increase from $21.3 in FY 2023. With a strong focus on operational efficiency and profitability, the company reduced its global losses by 21%, from $25.19 million in FY 2023 to $19.95 million in FY 2024, while making significant progress toward profitability. Key Highlights of FY 2024 Financial Performance: * Subscription Revenue: Witnessed an exponential increase in its microtransaction-led subscription revenue from $19.33 million in FY 2023 to $112.89 million in FY 2024, emphasizing Pocket FM's success towards building a strong community of paid users. * Advertising Revenue: Grew over 7X, from $1.51 million to $10.79 million. * Expenses-to-Earnings Ratio: Improved from 2.18 in FY 2023 to 1.16 in FY 2024, showcasing the company's strong focus on operational efficiency. * Profitability Trend: Losses narrowed by 21%, from $25.19 million in FY 2023 to $19.95 million in FY 2024, demonstrating disciplined growth and strategic investments. Audio Series - the Next Big Entertainment Innovation Pocket FM's global success is built on its innovative approach to audio storytelling, redefining the entertainment experience through serialized audio series. With a commitment to discovering and bringing unique, unheard stories to life, Pocket FM has created a library of blockbuster content. Over 30 audio series have achieved revenue milestones of million-dollar each, including seven that have crossed $10 million. Key Operational Highlights - for 2024: * Over 100 billion minutes of streaming, powered by its 200-million listener community. * Driven by its microtransactions approach, the platform has registered over 45 million transactions * Over 40,000 AI audio series have contributed to over $3 million in revenue. Global Expansion and Leadership Pocket FM's global footprint continues to expand, with strongholds in markets like the US and India and recent forays into Europe and Latin America. Strategic investments in content, technology, and user acquisition are fueling exponential growth, positioning the company as a global entertainment leader. Shaping the Future of Entertainment As Pocket FM inches closer to profitability and strengthens its global presence, its unwavering focus on innovation, disciplined growth, and operational efficiency continues to set new benchmarks in the entertainment industry. The company's vision of creating immersive, scalable, and profitable entertainment experiences remains on a clear upward trajectory. "This growth reflects our relentless efforts to redefine the entertainment landscape," said Anurag Sharma, CFO, Pocket FM. "With a sharp focus on leveraging AI, we are not only enhancing operational efficiency but also creating smarter processes that optimize content delivery and monetization. Our vision remains clear: to establish Pocket FM as a global entertainment platform that consistently pushes the boundaries of content experiences." About Pocket FM: Pocket FM is the world's largest audio series platform, with a global community of over 200 million listeners. The company has redefined audio storytelling by pioneering the audio series category and bringing it into mainstream entertainment with its episodic storytelling format. This innovative approach has fostered binge-listening behavior, with the platform seeing an average of over 115 minutes of daily listener time. Pocket FM offers more than 35,000 audio series, powered by a community of 250,000+ writers worldwide. Available on iOS and Android, click here [ https://click.pocketfm.in/whkH/ihnemvj0 ] to download Pocket FM. For more information, please get in touch with communications@pocketfm.com [mailto:communications@pocketfm.com] Media Contact Company Name: Pocket FM Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=audio-series-platform-pocket-fm-achieves-over-500-revenue-surge-globally ] Country: United States Website: https://pocketfm.com/us This release was published on openPR.Kansas State, Rutgers balance bowl prep with December distractions
One of my fondest childhood memories was taking family roadtrips to cities. Where we lived in rural South Central Pennsylvania was simple and quiet, so getting up close to famous landmarks like Washington, D.C.’s Lincoln Memorial and seeing so much diversity and energy in one place was a welcome change of scenery. I still get a thrill out of visiting urban American destinations. In contrast to the jaunts of my youth, though, I prefer doing these trips solo now. While having a companion has its time and place—typically for longer overeas vacations that require more detailed planning—I love exploring American cities indendently at my own pace. And though choosing a solid hotel proved challenging in the past, this year I’ve become loyal to a brand that may surprise you: Canopy by Hilton . Unveiled in 2014, Canopy by Hilton is the global hospitality brand ’s first lifestyle brand combining the best qualities of boutique hotels (modern design, locally-curated food and drink) and dependable hotel chains (safety, amenities like gyms) with addresses in the world’s most desirable destinations. Hilton Honors members and jetsetters alike responded favorably to the launch; currently, there are are 45 Canopy locations worldwide, with 29 in the pipeline. And compared to other higher-end properties, Canopy’s nightly rates are very competitively priced under $300. To experience the brand’s ever-growing appeal—and learn why it’s such a smart choice for solo female travelers—I visited two Canopy properties on opposite sides of the country, Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District and Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront , a couple months ago. Here’s what you can enjoy across all Canopy by Hilton hotels: a warm staff that’s eager to help with no air of stuffiness. You’ll also be welcomed with a modern and residental-feeling design; common spaces are kitted out with ample seating and tables for working, socializing, and everything in between. The signature Just-Right accommodations are true to their name: entry-level rooms are space-saving yet savvy with their open configurations, oversized windows for maximum light, and low-slung Canopy Serta beds, while suites merge the comforts of home with the convenience of a full-service hotel. Other standard perks include water stations and glass bottles—sustainability is one of the Canopy’s key pillars—Nespresso machines in every room, and a fitness enter. What makes every Canopy by Hilton hotel special, however, is the locally-curated food and beverage. It would have been easy for the brand to roll out the same culinary offerings across its portfolio; instead, each property gets to showcase what makes their hometowns unique and different. At Vaux , Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District’s all-day restaurant and bar, the menu reflects Portland touches and global influences (think: warm pretzel with Tillamook beer cheese, sausage-topped Oregon corn polenta, pastrami sandwich with local pale ale-infused sauerkraut). The beverages, too, pay homage to the region with a strong showing from area breweries (Occidental Kolsch, Migration Straight Outta Portland) and wineries (A to Z, Lange). Meanwhile, Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront’s two dining concepts, Salt Yard and Luna Rooftop Bar , turn out the iconic foods Maine’s biggest city is famous for—and much more. An open, industrial-feeling space that transforms from daytime cafe to evening lounge, Salt Yard serves up a tender lobster roll brightened by citrus aioli alongside lesser-known Portland sips and bites like Rwanda Bean coffee and Orchard Ridge Farm bagels. But it’s tough to top the appeal of Luna Rooftop Bar, where you’ll see locals and hotel guests savoring icy local oysters and Maine crab bruschetta with the tranquil waterfront as the backdrop. It’s a lovely place to enjoy everything that makes Portland such a beloved destination.
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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector underwent a major transformation in 2024, driven by the goals of Vision 2030. The market saw significant changes, fueled by unprecedented investments and key policy reforms. As a result, the Kingdom has positioned itself as a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification within the real estate industry. Since its launch in 2016, Vision 2030 has served as Saudi Arabia’s roadmap for economic diversification, with real estate playing a central role. By 2024, the Kingdom had invested SR4.9 trillion ($1.3 trillion) in infrastructure, significantly boosting residential, commercial, and hospitality capacities. Notable projects aim to introduce over a million residential units, as well as expand retail and office spaces by 7 million sq. meters each. “Saudi Arabia’s policy reforms and investment under Vision 2030 have transformed the Kingdom’s real estate landscape, making it one of the most dynamic markets in the region,” said Tarek Lotfy, president of Mercer in India, Middle East, and Africa, in an interview with Arab News. He emphasized that these reforms have accelerated the sector by aligning with broader initiatives to increase homeownership, improve livability, and attract foreign investments. This has been achieved through eased ownership regulations and the creation of Special Economic Zones. According to Sally Menassa, partner at Arthur D. Little Middle East, these reforms have included “easing foreign ownership restrictions, enhancing transparency in real estate transactions, introducing incentives for green building practices, and establishing a national framework for smart city development.” The establishment of a real estate transaction registry has been a particularly significant step in boosting market confidence, as it reduces the risks of fraud and increases investor trust. Menassa further highlighted the role of mega-projects in fostering investor confidence: “The involvement of the PIF in major development projects such as the Diriyah Gate Development reassures investors of the Kingdom’s commitment to high-quality, sustainable development and the stability of such developments.” Lotfy added that alongside these advancements, the rapid pace of development has also created challenges, including increasing competition for skilled labor in construction and smart city infrastructure. Recruitment and retention will be key themes in 2025, as companies will need to focus on developing long-term talent strategies, investing in training, and fostering a culture that attracts and retains top-tier talent, according to Lotfy. Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects, led by the Public Investment Fund, underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to large-scale innovation and ambitious transformation. High-profile projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Global are set to redefine urban living, culture, and tourism. NEOM alone spans 28,000 sq. km and is envisioned as a smart city powered by renewable energy and cutting-edge technology. Menassa emphasized the uniqueness of NEOM, pointing to initiatives like Oxagon, a floating industrial complex designed for sustainability and advanced technologies. “This is expected to attract high-tech industries and global talent, driving demand for residential and commercial properties,” she said. Meanwhile, Qiddiya is being developed as a world-class entertainment hub, featuring theme parks, cultural centers, and sports complexes. Menassa added that Qiddiya’s growth as a major cultural and entertainment destination would further boost tourism and the hospitality sector, creating demand for mixed-use assets that combine retail, leisure, and residential components. The Red Sea Project is another transformative initiative focused on sustainable tourism. According to Menassa: “Focusing on eco-friendly concepts and incorporating sustainable practices in its development, starting from construction, it (The Red Sea Project) will set new standards for regenerative and sustainable tourism and real estate development.” Saudi Arabia’s residential sector saw substantial growth in 2024, driven by government-backed initiatives and strong demand. Programs like Sakani and the National Housing Program have been essential in advancing the Vision 2030 goal of achieving 70 percent homeownership. Menassa underscored the significance of these efforts: “The addition of over a million homes as part of Saudi Arabia’s residential expansion efforts, aligning with the goal of achieving a 70 percent homeownership rate under Vision 2030, is expected to significantly impact homeownership rates and affordability, creating a big socio-economic shift in the nation.” A 38 percent increase in real estate transactions during the first half of 2024, valued at SR127.3 billion, highlights the sector’s dynamic growth. Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah have seen rising property prices, with Riyadh expected to reach a population of 10 million by 2030. Tourism, a cornerstone of Vision 2030, has already surpassed expectations. The Kingdom achieved its target of 100 million visitors in 2023 and now aims to attract 150 million tourists annually by 2030. “The 2034 FIFA World Cup will play an instrumental role in shaping the future of the short-term rental market in Saudi Arabia over the next 10 years,” said Anna Skigin, CEO of Frank Porter, in an interview with Arab News. “We will see a significant increase in the number of properties being developed as savvy investors look to capitalize on the announcement. We will also see more people buying properties and converting these into short-term rentals,” she added. Short-term rentals are reshaping the tourism landscape, creating new opportunities for various types of travelers. Skigin noted: “There is the opportunity for larger groups to travel — potentially multi-generational family travel and other large groups of family and friends.” She further explained, “Short-term rentals can cater to a variety of different budgets while offering more space than hotel rooms. These rentals also provide more privacy for travelers.” Menassa also highlighted the Kingdom’s focus on luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and eco-friendly accommodations as part of its broader tourism strategy. Developments like Jeddah Al-Balad, Diriyah, and Qiddiya are generating demand for integrated, mixed-use assets, boosting both tourism infrastructure and the overall quality of life, she explained. Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation has positioned proptech as a key component in the evolution of its real estate sector. Innovations such as digital mortgages, AI-driven property recommendations, and virtual tours are revolutionizing the home-buying experience. “Digital mortgages will allow streamlined processes, expediting the buying process by automating many of the steps involved, enhancing accessibility, and increasing transparency. Buyers can now compare rates, get pre-approved for loans from their homes, and explore homeownership opportunities with greater ease,” said Menassa. She also highlighted the integration of smart city infrastructure like NEOM’s, which incorporates advanced technologies to enhance urban living. “This also extends to urban planning and management, including advanced surveillance systems, smart street lighting, emergency response, traffic forecasting, and energy consumption management,” Menassa added. Despite its rapid growth, the Saudi real estate sector faces challenges such as economic volatility and rising project costs. Lotfy warned that as the Kingdom moves towards smart cities and sustainable development, the demand for advanced technical skills will increase. However, the opportunities outweigh these challenges. Skigin concluded: “The Kingdom has been significantly pushing tourism for both international and domestic tourists,” and these efforts will continue to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector in the coming years.The Swans stunned Pride Park into silence with less than two minutes on the clock when Zan Vipotnik sent a bullet past Jacob Widell Zetterstrom before Ronald slotted home his first of the season in the 14th minute. Cyrus Christie brought Tom Barkhuizen down inside the box and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing dispatched the resulting penalty to cut the deficit in half and, despite piling on the pressure, Derby succumbed to a second home defeat of the season. Williams told a press conference: “We started the game very well, we were good up until we scored the second goal then we lost the grip on the game and I thought Derby were the better team. “The next thing for us we have to be able to maintain that level throughout the game and we weren’t able to do that to be quite honest today. “They made it difficult, reacted very well after the second goal and didn’t go under, far from it.” Swansea leapfrogged their opponents into the top half of the table with their sixth win of the season and took three points back to south Wales following two last-minute defeats by Burnley and Leeds heading into the match. Williams added: “We’ve recently conceded late goals but they’re a very resilient group and we saw it out in the end. “We’ve dominated games a lot but probably failed to score when we’ve been that dominant and tonight we managed to score the goals when we were dominant. “We scored the goals at the right time today.” Derby had been unbeaten in their last three matches coming into this one but Paul Warne put defeat down to a poor start. He said: “We conceded two and didn’t get close enough, weren’t aggressive enough, not enough body contact and looked soft, that’s my fault. “Maybe I didn’t message it properly. Sometimes it doesn’t come down to shape and tactics but I thought that was what the difference was. “Credit Swansea for the win but after the 25 mins it looked like we would score. I really enjoyed it, that’s the truth. I had 70 minutes of a team giving everything, I don’t think we’ve had that many attempts in the Championship this season. “It’s a rude awakening, last year we would’ve won that 4-2.”Liverpool: Arne Slot provides injury update on Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konate ahead of Man City showdown
Bowling Green coach Scot Loeffler is happy for the seniors on his roster who persevered through what he called the program's "dark era." The Falcons' senior class would love nothing more than to go out with a win in the 68 Ventures Bowl against Arkansas State on Thursday in Mobile, Ala. Bowling Green (7-5) last won a bowl game in 2014. The program suffered seven straight losing seasons from 2016-22, exceeding four wins just once before its recent turnaround. "I'm super proud of the guys that have been part of this program for four, five and six years," Loeffler said, per the Toledo Blade. "They were part of the dark era, as I would say, and they really have made this place a competitive, hard-working, do-right program." One subplot is star tight end Harold Fannin Jr.'s pursuit of multiple FBS records. Fannin enters the bowl game with 100 receptions for 1,342 yards and nine touchdowns. If he gains just 11 yards against Arkansas State, Fannin will break Jace Amaro's single-season record for tight ends set in 2013. Fannin is also 12 catches away from setting the single-season receptions record at the position (James Casey, 111, 2008). Fannin was the first tight end in FBS history to be named a conference's player of the year when the Mid-American Conference gave him the honor. "He's phenomenal. Phenomenal athlete, really good guy, too," Falcons linebacker Brock Horne said. "... Obviously, he helped out the team a ton, and just looking forward to him putting the orange and brown on one more time and having a good bowl game." "He needs to go to the National Football League as fast as he can," Loeffler added. Arkansas State (7-5) won four of its final six games in the regular season to join the ranks of the bowl-eligible. The Red Wolves' last winning season was 2019, which was capped off by their most recent bowl win. It's been their best showing under coaching veteran Butch Jones, who's led Cincinnati and Tennessee to bowl victories before. "We have to be better than we were (at Monday's practice) from a fundamental execution standpoint, from a habit standpoint," Jones said. "All that goes into playing winning football. But I like our mindset so far." Arkansas State's Jaylen Raynor threw for 2,562 yards with 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Zak Wallace led a multipronged rushing attack with 622 yards and 10 touchdowns. The greater concern is the Red Wolves' defense, which allowed 32.3 points per game and 460.7 yards per game, the latter ranking sixth-to-worst in FBS. "Obviously we've been decimated up front in the defensive line with some season-ending injuries," Jones said. "But right now, we're as healthy as we can possibly be since going through a long season." Bowling Green, conversely, allowed just 20.3 points per game. Falcons quarterback Connor Bazelak passed for 2,654 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. Terion Stewart led the ground game with 890 yards and six scores. --Field Level Media
NoneLuke Williams feels Swansea ‘lost grip’ on game despite sealing victory at Derby
The Swans stunned Pride Park into silence with less than two minutes on the clock when Zan Vipotnik sent a bullet past Jacob Widell Zetterstrom before Ronald slotted home his first of the season in the 14th minute. Cyrus Christie brought Tom Barkhuizen down inside the box and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing dispatched the resulting penalty to cut the deficit in half and, despite piling on the pressure, Derby succumbed to a second home defeat of the season. Williams told a press conference: “We started the game very well, we were good up until we scored the second goal then we lost the grip on the game and I thought Derby were the better team. “The next thing for us we have to be able to maintain that level throughout the game and we weren’t able to do that to be quite honest today. “They made it difficult, reacted very well after the second goal and didn’t go under, far from it.” Swansea leapfrogged their opponents into the top half of the table with their sixth win of the season and took three points back to south Wales following two last-minute defeats by Burnley and Leeds heading into the match. Williams added: “We’ve recently conceded late goals but they’re a very resilient group and we saw it out in the end. “We’ve dominated games a lot but probably failed to score when we’ve been that dominant and tonight we managed to score the goals when we were dominant. “We scored the goals at the right time today.” Derby had been unbeaten in their last three matches coming into this one but Paul Warne put defeat down to a poor start. He said: “We conceded two and didn’t get close enough, weren’t aggressive enough, not enough body contact and looked soft, that’s my fault. “Maybe I didn’t message it properly. Sometimes it doesn’t come down to shape and tactics but I thought that was what the difference was. “Credit Swansea for the win but after the 25 mins it looked like we would score. I really enjoyed it, that’s the truth. I had 70 minutes of a team giving everything, I don’t think we’ve had that many attempts in the Championship this season. “It’s a rude awakening, last year we would’ve won that 4-2.”
LA Galaxy win record 6th MLS Cup
The foreign ministers demanded that 'fundamental rights, including freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, must be upheld and protected as per Georgia's constitution'. The foreign ministers of Germany, France and Poland have condemned "the disproportionate use of force" against pro-EU protesters in Georgia as the wave of unrest continues for a tenth night. In their joint statement, the three foreign ministers – Annalena Baerbock, Jean-Noël Barrot and Radosław Sikorski - called for the immediate release of opposition members. More than 400 protesters, including opposition leaders and at least 50 journalists, have been detained, while over 100 people have been treated for injuries. The ministers demanded that "fundamental rights, including freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, must be upheld and protected as per Georgia’s constitution and international commitments." Germany, France and Poland also called on the ruling Georgian Dream party to deescalate tensions and open an inclusive dialogue with all political forces and representatives of civil society. "We underscore our determination to support the democratic and European aspirations of the Georgian people," the statement said. The security crackdown has also drawn condemnation from the United States. Speaking at a ministerial conference of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Secretary of State Antony Blinken denounced what he described as a brutal "repression of those calling for their country to stay on the path to closer ties with Europe." The ruling Georgian Dream retained control of parliament in a disputed parliamentary election on 26 October, a vote that was widely seen as a referendum on Georgia's EU aspirations. The opposition accused the governing party of rigging the vote with the help neighbouring Russia to keep what they call the 'Moscow-friendly' Georgian Dream party in power. But the initial protests against the election took on a new dimension and spread beyond the capital Tbilisi after the Georgian Dream’s decision last Thursday to put EU accession talks on hold until at least 2028. "There is just no way that they are going to get their ends with violence because more people are going to come out, more people are going to be on our side because of it. I don't know what their plan is, to be honest, I have no idea. They are doing the opposite of what they are supposed to do," said protester, Elene Chikovani. The decision to suspend accession talks was in response to a European Parliament resolution that criticised the elections as neither free nor fair. It said the election represented another manifestation of Georgia’s continued democratic backsliding "for which the ruling Georgian Dream party is fully responsible." International observers say they saw instances of violence, bribery and double voting at the polls, prompting some EU lawmakers to demand a re-run. The EU granted Georgia candidate status in December 2023 on condition that it meet the bloc's recommendations, but Brussels put that process on hold earlier this year after the passage of a controversial 'foreign influence' law, which was widely seen as a blow to democratic freedoms. Critics have also accused Georgian Dream of becoming increasingly authoritarian and tilted toward Moscow. The party recently pushed through laws similar to those used by the Kremlin to crack down on freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights. Georgia's pro-EU president, Salome Zourabichvili, has long been at odds with the Georgian Dream and has refused to sign what she sees as some of their more contentious pieces of legislation into law. On Saturday, she met Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the ceremony to mark the reopening of the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. In a post on X after that meeting, she thanked Zelenskyy for Ukraine's "steadfast and unwavering support for the Georgian people", adding there is "no alternative" to her country's future within the EU. Also on X, Zelenskyy said he supported Georgia's fight for a "dignified future" and said he would coordinate with global partners to deliver a response to support the Georgian people in their fight to "live freely and independently".President-elect Donald Trump has once again suggested he wants to revert the name of North America’s tallest mountain — Alaska’s Denali — to Mount McKinley, wading into a sensitive and about what the peak should be called. Related Articles Former President Barack Obama changed the official name to Denali in 2015 to reflect the as well as the preference of many Alaska residents. The federal government in recent years has endeavored considered disrespectful to Native people. “Denali” is an Athabascan word meaning “the high one” or “the great one.” A prospector in 1896 dubbed the peak “Mount McKinley” after President William McKinley, who had never been to Alaska. That name was formally recognized by the U.S. government until Obama changed it over opposition from lawmakers in McKinley’s home state of Ohio. Trump suggested in 2016 that he might undo Obama’s action, but he dropped that notion after Alaska’s senators objected. He raised it again during a rally in Phoenix on Sunday. “McKinley was a very good, maybe a great president,” Trump said Sunday. “They took his name off Mount McKinley, right? That’s what they do to people.” Once again, Trump’s suggestion drew quick opposition within Alaska. “Uh. Nope. It’s Denali,” Democratic state Sen. Scott Kawasaki posted on the social platform X Sunday night. , who for years pushed for legislation to change the name to Denali, conveyed a similar sentiment in a post of her own. “There is only one name worthy of North America’s tallest mountain: Denali — the Great One,” Murkowski wrote on X. Various tribes of Athabascan people have lived in the shadow of the 20,310-foot (6,190-meter) mountain for thousands of years. McKinley, a Republican native of Ohio who served as the 25th president, was assassinated early in his second term in 1901 in Buffalo, New York. Alaska and Ohio have been at odds over the name since at least the 1970s. Alaska had a standing request to change the name since 1975, when the legislature passed a resolution and then-Gov. Jay Hammond appealed to the federal government. Known for its majestic views, the mountain is dotted with glaciers and covered at the top with snow year-round, with powerful winds that make it difficult for the adventurous few who seek to climb it.Ardent Health to Participate in the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference
ADVENT 2024: We have a lot to learn about hope from Chimney Rock, NC this ChristmasFor anyone thinking of investing in individual stocks, outperforming the is what it’s all about. Otherwise, investors might as well just buy a fund that tracks the index. It’s not easy to do, but the four largest investments in my Stocks and Shares ISA are all ahead of the average as 2024 draws to a close. And that gives me plenty to think about. Shares I own The largest stock in my portfolio is ( ). The share price has been climbing as investors anticipate lighter banking regulations as a result of the US election outcome. ‘s my largest UK stock. Despite making a discretionary product in a difficult environment, sales have been growing strongly and the shares have responded accordingly. Third is , which has also been on the move since the start of November. Growth in its cloud computing and online advertising divisions is also helping to push the share price higher. Finally, there’s . might not think the stock’s undervalued right now, but that hasn’t stopped investors buying into his investment vehicle for their own portfolios. The S&P 500’s up 28% since the start of the year. But so far, Citigroup (34%), Games Workshop (+45%), Amazon (+46%) and Berkshire Hathaway (29%) have done better. That puts me in a position where I have to consider a difficult question. Should I stick with them while they’re doing well, or look to redeploy cash into other opportunities? Citigroup The most interesting example is Citigroup. I bought the stock when Jane Fraser took over as CEO with a view there was clear scope for improvement that the share price wasn’t reflecting. I think the turnaround plan is progressing reasonably well. Its plan is to sell off some of its international retail operations to focus on its core areas of competence. My view on the company hasn’t changed. But the stock’s now 40% more expensive than it was when I bought it, so it’s worth considering whether the future growth’s now priced in. I wasn’t expecting the stock to do well this year – my view was a long-term one based on the outcome of Citigroup restructuring its business over a few years. So this has been a surprise. At a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 0.7, Citigroup shares trade at a discount to the other major US banks. But they are roughly level with their average multiple over the last 10 years. I’m reasonably sure I wouldn’t buy at today’s prices and with the investment equation looking less attractive, I’m thinking about selling. The issue though, is finding something else to buy instead. Outperforming Outperforming the S&P 500 isn’t easy. And I’m not sure whether or not my overall portfolio is ahead this year. Strong gains in some stocks have been offset to some degree by others – being one example. That stock’s down 17% since January, which is a significant drag on overall returns. Ultimately, performance in one year doesn’t really matter – it’s the long-term result that counts. And this is what I’m considering when working out what to do with my investments.