#Secretary Tourism

[theleadersglobe]

Strong Rebound for International Tourism in 2024

According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, global tourism continued its post-pandemic recovery in 2024, with 790 million international tourists travelling in the first seven months, marking an 11% increase compared to 2023 and just 4% shy of 2019 levels. Although the first half of 2024 showed a strong recovery, the second quarter displayed more modest growth, aligning with UN Tourism’s projections of a full recovery by the end of the year despite lingering economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili indicated that the recovery trajectory has been robust, driven by increasing demand for international travel. He highlighted the effectiveness of initiatives such as boosting air connectivity and easing visa restrictions, which have significantly contributed to this rebound. Pololikashvili also emphasised the need for thoughtful tourism planning to ensure that growth benefits local communities and aligns with long-term sustainable development goals.

Read More: https://theleadersglobe.com/life-interest/travel/strong-rebound-for-international-tourism-in-2024/

[townpostin]

Handball Tournament Crowns Jamshedpur St. Mary's Hindi Champions

Boys and girls teams from St. Mary’s Hindi triumph over Day Boarding in finals Jharkhand’s Tourism, Art Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Department hosted a successful handball competition, showcasing young athletic talent. JAMSHEDPUR – A handball tournament at RD Bhatta Center in Bistupur saw St. Mary’s Hindi teams clinch victories in both boys’ and girls’ categories. The event featured…

[markhorday]

Resolution adopted by the General Assembly on 2 May 2024.

The General Assembly, Reaffirming its resolution 70/1 of 25 September 2015, entitled “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, by which it adopted a comprehensive, far-reaching and people-centred set of universal and transformative Sustainable Development Goals and targets, Reaffirming also its resolutions 53/199 of 15 December 1998 and 61/185 of 20 December 2006 on the proclamation of international years, and Economic and Social Council resolution 1980/67 of 25 July 1980 on international years and anniversaries, in particular paragraphs 1 to 10 of the annex thereto on the agreed criteria for the proclamation of international years, as well as paragraphs 13 and 14, in which it is stated that an international day or year should not be proclaimed before the basic arrangements for its organization and financing have been made, Reaffirming further the intrinsic value of wildlife and its various contributions, including its ecological, genetic, social, economic, scientific, educational, cultural, recreational and aesthetic contributions to sustainable development and human wellbeing, and recognizing that wild fauna in their many beautiful and varied forms are an irreplaceable part of the natural systems of the Earth which must be protected for this generation and the generations to come, Stressing the urgent need to address the unprecedented global decline in biodiversity, including by preventing the extinction of threatened species, improving and sustaining their conservation status and restoring and safeguarding ecosystems that provide essential functions and services, including services related to water, health, livelihoods and well-being,

Underlining that the markhor (Capra falconeri) is an iconic and ecologically significant species found across the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, including Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, and recognizing that the markhor was categorized as “near threatened” in 2014 and is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species, and has been included in appendix I to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora since 1992, Recognizing that preserving the markhor and its natural habitat is an ecological imperative and a significant opportunity to bolster the regional economy, foster conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism and economic growth and that conservation efforts will benefit the ecosystem, Stressing that, besides its ecological value, the markhor is a valuable species that contributes to the local economy and conservation initiatives, Recognizing national and regional initiatives for range State cooperation, transboundary approaches and mechanisms at the regional level to foster conservation of the markhor,

Noting the upcoming Ninth World Conference on Mountain Ungulates, to be held in Dushanbe from 12 to 15 October 2024, Recognizing that the greatest threats to the survival of the markhor are habitat loss, illegal hunting, including poaching, and climate change, Recalling its resolution 78/155 of 19 December 2023, entitled “Implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its contribution to sustainable development”, in which it called upon parties to the Convention and stakeholders to strengthen international cooperation measures for the fulfillment of obligations contained in the Convention, Recognizing efforts for the conservation of the markhor, including the establishment of breeding programmes and the development of a regional strategy and national action plans for the conservation of the markhor in some range States that aim to protect the species throughout its range,

Decides to proclaim 24 May the International Day of the Markhor;

Invites all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, other international and regional organizations, civil society, non-governmental organizations, individuals and other relevant stakeholders to observe the International Day of the Markhor, as appropriate;

Invites all relevant stakeholders to give due consideration to enhancing international and regional cooperation in support of efforts to conserve the markhor, given its role in the overall ecosystem;

Invites the United Nations Environment Programme to facilitate the observance of the International Day of the Markhor, mindful of the provisions contained in the annex to Economic and Social Council resolution 1980/67;

Stresses that the cost of all activities that may arise from the implementation of the present resolution should be met from voluntary contributions and that such activities would be subject to the availability and provision of voluntary contributions;

Requests the Secretary-General to bring the present resolution to the attention of all Member States, the organizations of the United Nations system and civil society organizations for appropriate observance.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 78/278 - International Day of the Markhor.

Seventy-eighth session Agenda item 13: Integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic, social and related fields.

77th plenary meeting - 2 May 2024.

[xtruss]

Archaeologists Excavating the Tomb of Egypt’s First Female Pharaoh Found Hundreds of Jars Still Holding Remnants of Wine

The dig has also shed new light on the reign of the ancient queen.

— Adam Schrader | October 18, 2023

An archaeology team has discovered evidence that the Ancient Egyptian Queen Merneith “had a great position” and was responsible for the central government offices. Photo courtesy of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Archaeology

Archaeologists digging in one of the oldest cities in Egypt have discovered evidence that sheds new light on the life of the ancient Egyptian queen Merneith, who ruled during the 1st Dynasty.

The excavation of a tomb in the Umm al-Qaab area in Abydos found an inscription on a “Stone Vessel” that provides new historical information about Merneith’s reign, during which she held “A Great Position” and was responsible for the central government offices, said Christiana Köhler, who led the dig.

“It has been speculated that Merneith may have been the first female Pharaoh in Ancient Egypt,” Köhler said in a news release, “but her true identity remains a mystery,”

A fragment of a stone vessel recently found in the tomb of Queen Merneith. It has an incised inscription with her name on the right and the mention of the royal treasury on the left. Photo courtesy of EC Köhler, M Minotti.

Köhler specified that Merneith, also known as Meret-Neith, may have been in charge of the treasury among other government offices, supporting the idea of her historical significance. She is the only 1st-Dynasty woman whose tomb has been uncovered in Abydos so far.

“Considering that these are the remains of people’s lives and actions from 5,000 years ago, we are stunned every day at the amazing detail we encounter during our investigations, including the perfectly preserved grape seeds, craftwork and even footprints in the mud,” Köhler said over email.

The Wine Jars are seen during the excavation of Merneith’s Tomb. Photo courtesy of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Archaeology

Perfectly Preserved Grape 🍇 Seeds: Egypt’s Tourism Ministry highlighted hundreds of 5,000-year-old wine jars found in the tomb in the Umm al-Qaab area in Abydos, one of the oldest cities in Egypt located about 354 miles south of Cairo. Photo courtesy of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Archaeology

Discoveries made in the dig also “challenge the long-held belief in human sacrifice,” Köhler added in the news release.

Next to Merneith’s burial site, archaeologists found a group of 41 tombs for her courtiers and servants, indicating these chambers were built during different periods of time.

“This observation, together with other evidence, radically challenges the oft-proposed, but unproven idea of ritual human sacrifice in the 1st Dynasty,” Köhler said.

The news release highlighted the discovery of hundreds of 5,000-year-old wine jars that had never been opened. The archaeological team—hailing from Egypt, Germany and Austria—found the remains of wine inside.

Mustafa Waziri, Secretary General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in a statement that the discovered jars are large in size and “in a good condition of preservation.”

“Some of them are very well preserved with their jar stoppers still intact,” Köhler said.

[liberatingjepoy]

"24/7 Tourist Call Center: Your Gateway to Hassle-Free Travel!"

Exciting news for travelers across the nation! The Department of Tourism (DOT) has just unveiled its brand-new 24/7 Tourist Assistance Call Center, headquartered in the picturesque Angeles, Pampanga. This cutting-edge initiative aims to make your travel experience smoother by addressing all your queries and concerns round the clock. At present, the call center boasts a dedicated team of eight…

[tourismday]

Investing in sustainable tourism is investing in a better future for all.

Tourism is a powerful force for progress and mutual understanding. But in order to deliver its full benefits, this force must be protected and nurtured.  

Today, the climate emergency is threatening many travel destinations and the very survival of communities and economies that depend on tourism. And many developing countries that are severely affected by a changing climate are also facing a growing investment deficit and a cost-of-living crisis.

On this World Tourism Day, we recognize the vital need for green investments to build a tourism sector that delivers for people and planet.

Governments and businesses must invest in sustainable and resilient tourism practices. Private actors must adopt zero-emission pathways, lower their energy consumption and leverage renewable forms of energy. And everyone must protect the biodiversity and ecological balance of all destinations.

Targeted investments can deliver jobs and support local businesses and industries while mitigating the environmental impacts of tourism, empowering communities, promoting their cultures, and contributing to essential social protection systems.   

So let us all do more to harness the full potential of sustainable tourism. Because investing in sustainable tourism is investing in a better future for all.  

United Nations Secretary-General Mr. Antonio Guterres on World Tourism Day 2023.

[marwahstudios]

Sandeep Marwah Honored with Iconic Award at Tourism Summit

New Delhi: Thirty-two years back I gave one word to English dictionary that is Film and Cultural Tourism, nobody could understand it. Today every country is talking about Film and Cultural Tourism and to honor my own term we have been able to attract approximately three million people to Noida Film City. We are also associated with seven thousand five hundred cultural events at Marwah Studios,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah President of Marwah Studios and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts while talking to the press at ITC Maurya during Iconic Awards 2023 designed by Jyoti Mayal of Redhat Communications.

The award was presented to Sandeep Marwah by Vinod Kumar Duggal former Governor of Manipur & Mizoram and Arvind Singh Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in the presence of large audience representing Tourism, Travel & Hospitality Industry and people from different strata of life.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Adventures are the best way to learn. The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page,” expressed Jyoti Mayal while introducing the awards. “This is an annual feature of Redhat Communications, and we select people from travel, tourism, and Hospitality Industry for this prestigious Iconic Awards for their extra ordinary contribution to nation building,”. She added.

Earlier a panel discussion on tourism took place and some prominent people like Deepa Gopalan Wadhwa former Indian Ambassador to Japan, Nakul Anand Executive Director ITC Limited, Rupinder Brar Principal Commissioner of Income Tax Mumbai, Mohammad Sarhan Vice President Emirates, H.E. Nguyen Thanh Hai Ambassador of Vietnam to India, Vir Sanghvi Author and Journalist were the panelists.

Harin Fernando Minister of Tourism & Lands Government of Sri Lanka, H.E. Firat Sunel Ambassador of Turkey to India, H.E. Agis Loizou Ambassador of Cyprus, H.E. Dr. Ashraf Shikhaliyev Ambassador of Azerbaijan, H.E. Wael Mohamed Awad Hamed Ambassador of Egypt, H.E. Sinisa Pavic Ambassador of Serbia, H.E. Akhatov Dilshod Khamidovich Ambassador of Uzbekistan, H.E. G.M. Chipare Ambassador of Zimbabwe, K.L. Ganju Consular General of Comoros, and Ambassador Anil Wadhwa were also present there.

Rajeev Talwar CEO & Director DLF Developers Ltd, Madhu Jain Fashion Designer, Shazia IIlmi Politician & Journalist, Parineeta Sethi Chief Editor Global Spa India & Middle East & Peaklife, Ashwani Lohani former Chairman Railway Board & CMD Air India, Kapil Kaul CEO & Director CAPA India, Balbir Mayal Principal Advisor Redhat Communications, Naveen Jafa Historian & Dancer, Rituraj Khanna CEO Q Events, and Vishnu Shankar Chef Editor Global Spa & Middle East & Peaklife were the members of jury.

[uttarakhand-jagran]

मुख्यमंत्री की उपस्थिति में पर्यटन विभाग ने किया यमुनोत्री रोपवे प्रोजेक्ट का अनुबंध

देहरादून:  मुख्यमंत्री पुष्कर सिंह धामी एवं पर्यटन मंत्री सतपाल महाराज की उपस्थिति में गुरूवार को मुख्यमंत्री आवास में यमुनोत्री रोपवे प्रोजेक्ट के लिए पर्यटन विभाग, निजी निर्माण कंपनी एस.आर.एम. इंजीनियरिंग एवं एफआईएल इंडस्ट्री प्रा. लि. के बीच अनुबंध किया गया। ले. कमान्डर दीपक खण्डूरी (से.नि.) निदेशक अवस्थापना एवं श्री अविरल जैन ने एमओयू हस्ताक्षरित किया। मुख्यमंत्री पुष्कर सिंह धामी ने कहा कि…

[blueiscoool]

4,000-Year-Old Tomb of Egyptian Royal Physician Found in Saqqara

Teti Neb Fu, a high-ranking physician during Pharaoh Pepi II's reign, held titles like Chief Dentist, Priest of Serket, and Director of Medicinal Plants.

In the southern region of the Saqqara archaeological site, a joint French-Swiss archaeological team made an important discovery uncovering the mastaba tomb of the royal physician Teti Neb Fu from the Old Kingdom, according to a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

This tomb, unearthed in the southern region of the archaeological site of Saqqara, known to contain the tombs of high-ranking officials from the Egyptian Old Kingdom, shows that medicine and magic were once equally revered, and expertise in both earned a long-dead physician to the pharaohs a place of honor among the ancient world’s most esteemed.

Dating back over 4,000 years to the reign of King Pepi II, this important find features exquisite carvings and vibrant artwork, including a painted false door and elaborate scenes depicting funeral offerings.

The sarcophagus found inside the tomb was also inscribed with the name of its occupant and his titles, according to the post. Because of the burial location in Saqqara, researchers knew he was important, but Teti Neb Fu’s official titles named him as the chief palace physician.

Teti Neb Fu, who held prestigious titles such as Chief Palace Physician, Chief Dentist, and Director of Medicinal Plants, also had a unique role as a “Magician” of the Goddess Serket, specializing in the treatment of venomous bites.

Additionally, he was known as the “Great Physician of Teeth” and “Director of Medicinal Plants”, suggesting that he led research and practical applications in the fields of dentistry and the use of therapeutic herbs.

Even though it had been looted in the past, the mastaba still has many of its ornamental features. The director of the archaeological mission, Dr. Philippe Collombert, said the walls are decorated with remarkable reliefs and inscriptions, including a complex frieze that displays the owner’s name and titles.

Among the most remarkable elements is the red-painted ceiling, which is intended to resemble granite blocks, a material commonly found in imposing buildings. The titles and name of the doctor are also written in the middle of the ceiling. An additional noteworthy discovery within the mastaba is a stone sarcophagus, which has hieroglyphic decorations inside that offer more information about Teti Neb Fu and his accomplishments.

Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, emphasized the importance of this discovery, stating that the texts and drawings on the tomb’s walls unveil new insights into the daily life of the Old Kingdom.

This discovery strengthens Saqqara’s position as one of Egypt’s most important historical sites and contributes to its rich archaeological legacy.

Excavations in this area of Saqarra began in 2022, to unearth the graves of state employees for King Pepi who are buried near him and his wives, officials said.

By Oguz Buyukyildirim.

[specialmouse]

WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING:

Last night, over 100 Palestinians were killed in Gaza and the West Bank after intensified bombing campaigns and an illegal invasion. Since dawn in Palestine today, Israel has killed 15 people, and in the past three days, has bombed Gaza over 100 times.

This is all while Israel and Hamas talk hostage and ceasefire negotiations in Doha, Qatar. Hamas has created a list of hostages that will be released as the first stage of a truce. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, has publicly stated that he believes a ceasefire will come in the following weeks.

(Headline from Reuters, excerpt from The New Arab)

Attacks are steadily intensifying in Gaza as Netanyahu faces domestic and international pressure. IOF soldiers that have left Israel are forced to return, as warrants are out for their arrests for crimes against humanity. The Israeli state is crumbling; tourism is down 70% and the economy is massively suffering as people are fleeing the country and the military expenditure eats at their national budget.

All of this is to say: IT’S COMING. But it can’t come fast enough. We cannot just wait idly by for a ceasefire—we still have to support the Palestinian families on the ground, especially as the IOF intensifies attacks.

The Al-Anqar family, a family of 14 spanning 3 generations, are among those taking refuge in a school near Nuseirat refugee camp, where 40 people were killed overnight. Thankfully, the Al-Anqars are all right, but they are still in need of donations for food and supplies, and to save for leaving the country and starting a new life when the ceasefire goes into effect.

(Excerpt from Democracy Now, from this morning 01/06/2025)

Their campaign is currently at €8,735/€20,000. We have two weeks until Trump is president, who has publicly stated that if the hostages are not released by the time he takes office, there will be “hell to pay.” There is a clear deadline here; the money needs to be raised as soon as possible, period. Donating any amount, even just €5, will help immensely. Sharing is the next best thing.

€9,375/€20,000 - THE TIME IS NOW

The Al-Anqars are verified at #6 on GazaVetters’ spreadsheet.

Tagging for reach:

@rickybabyboy @sayruq @officialspec2 @nabulsi @valtsvolts @komsomolka-blog @r0zeclawz @teaboot @boobieteriat @chokulit @3000s @ot3 @90-ghost @apas-95 @punkitt-is-here @i-am-a-fish @b0tster @vampiricvenus @turtletoria @tamamita @omegaversereloaded @catsgifsarefun @sawasawako @feluka @spongebobssquarepants @skipppppy @paper-mario-wiki @xgoldenlatiasx @postanagramgenerator @memingursa @certifiedsexed @afro-elf @11thsense @spacebeyonce @fools-and-perverts @dailyquests @neechees @evillesbianvillainarchive @taffybuns @nyancrimew @thatdiabolicalfeminist @beserkerjewel @tpwrtrmnky @beetledrink @spaghettioverdose @grox @minmos @paparoach @jackalopescruff @slimetony

[margaretthatchersdead]

Reasons to end the monarchy: Charles Edition

Well it's the coronation so you know what it's time for.

The entire concept of a monarchy is actively undemocratic. The head of state should not be someone who is only in that position because they were born into a certain family.

Having a monarchy upholds classism as a specific family of great wealth and power are viewed as superior to others.

They stand for a history of racism and imperialism. This country has done some truly terrible things in its history and the monarchy are a symbol of that. In order to attempt to begin to undo the harm that we have done, we need to remove this symbol of oppression.

The royal family have previously lobbied the government to hide their own personal wealth. Despite this, we are obviously aware that they have a large amount of wealth.

Prince Charles has himself lobbied the government on a number of occasions. His 'black spider memos' show that he has repeatedly pressured ministers on a wide range of topics from the Iraq war to badger culling to alternative therapies. He has used his power to lobby the government on subjects that would affect him.

The monarch does not occupy a ceremonial role as is frequently claimed. Ministers and civil servants have to consult the monarch. Civil servants have to get the consent of the royals on pieces of legislation, which can cause delays on implementation.

Even if the monarch did occupy a purely ceremonial role, as a literal billionaire he wields a ridiculously high amount of power over people.

Windsor Castle brings in less money than Windsor Legoland does. The many castles that are owned by the royal family could be used to create spaces for the public to enjoy or to be used as a shelter for the homeless. The Louvre in Paris used to be house of the French monarchy and gets over twenty times the tourists. Edinburgh castle hasn't had the monarchy live in it for centuries and yet still brings in tourism.

Prince Andrew is widely known to be connected to Jeffrey Epstein; yet he has not had to face any repercussions for his actions despite blatantly lying when being asked about his actions. The royal family have defended him and prevented him from facing the consequences of his actions.

They cost around £334 million per year. This money could be used to help the poor, given to the NHS, to repair and build infrastructure, to support small businesses that are struggling, pretty much anything.

The royal household publishes a much lower figure about the cost of the royal family, so they are actively trying to cover up their cost.

Charles has had access to confidential Cabinet papers, undermining our democracy.

He has publicly championed alternative medicine and has repeatedly promoted it. He sent at least seven letters to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, that then shortly relaxed the rules governing the labeling of herbal products, ones he as part of Charles's Duchy Originals produces.

He lobbied the health secretary regarding greater provision of alternative treatments on the NHS.

In 2018, 46% of Britons wanted him to abdicate immediately after Elizabeth died. He’s barely wanted by the country even with the sheer amount of pro-monarchy propaganda going around. Charles specifically is very unpopular.

In order to speak to him, broadcasters had to sign a 15-page contract, which includes Clarence house attending the rough and fine cut edits of films and if unhappy can remove that contribution, as well as stipulating that all questions directed at him must be pre-approved and vetted by his representative.

His personal wealth is £1.8 billion. He inherited a large amount of this from Elizabeth, with it being exempt from inheritance tax. Having an immunity from this tax when others don’t is ridiculous.

The Duchy of Cornwall was named in the Paradise papers.

The coronation is going to cost £100 million during a cost of living crisis.

People have been banned from protesting Charles with official warning letters were sent to anti-monarchists.

Protestors who block roads, airports and railways could face an entire year behind bars. Locking yourself to others, objects or buildings could go to prison for six months and face an unlimited fine. Police are allowed to head off disruption by stopping and searching protestors that they suspect.

The public were encouraged to swear allegiance to the new King when he gets sworn in, this is a deeply disturbing suggestion.

He's a billionaire who's going to use the public's money to celebrate himself.

The monarch has sweeping immunity from many laws

He owns business parks and small rented cottages, six of the ten top residential homes, 285,000 acres of mineral rich land. He’s ridiculously rich in a country where so many people are facing extreme poverty.

[jmdbjk]

The year that was 2024:

But first...

Standing at the threshold of 2025 I look back far past 2024 to that day in June 2022 and the grief, disbelief... the shock and trauma those of us experienced while watching the Festa Dinner video. That dinner had been pre-recorded a few weeks prior and they released it on June 14. The members had to be scared of what our reactions would be when we watched it. 

At that time we still had no idea how military enlistment would unfold, that news was still months away for us after the October concert in Busan. All we knew was BTS was going to pause but we did not really know what that meant. And it wasn't just the fans who went into a tailspin, Hybe stock took a dip, the secretary of Ministry of Culture Sports and Tourism begged BTS to come back. The news of a BTS hiatus began to hit international news media across the globe. The emotional devastation was real.

That day and following days, it seemed like 2025 was forever in the future. What would we be like in 2025? What would the members of BTS be like? What would the music industry landscape be like? What would the world be like? It was two and a half years away from that day. Back in June 2022, 2025 seemed like a lifetime away in the future, a bleak, dark unknown.

We attempted to pull ourselves together and look for the positives... "we'll save so much money!” and "we'll have time to learn Korean!" HAH! The real winner: “I can catch up on content!” LMAO!

Here we are now, two and a half years later. My god the shit that's transpired since. A lot of it was not on anyone's radar.

2024, the year of fighting...

Throughout the year and as the year wore on, we fought boycotters, haters, mantis and solos. We fought the media, each other, other fandoms... it was a constant battle to clear the mess. Our main weapon? Our love for BTS and the members and our commitment and determination.

We should be better at recognizing bad actors, at recognizing organized hate. I hope you all are blocking it, muting it because it is an energy drain to dwell on it and it exists. Some people are compelled to lash back at it. I'm not one of those. I prefer blocking/muting. Do what is right for you.

So here's a recap of 2024...the first quarter of the year started out calmly.

January: We were basking in the BTS documentary series Beyond the Star and waiting for a sign of our men completing their basic training. We were hoping to find out where they would be stationed for the rest of their military service.

February was relatively quiet. Except for this.

Tae's song "Fri(end)s", released mid-March.

Hope on the Street Vol. 1 released end of March with the six episode docu-series running through April.

We were hitting our stride, understanding that they'd prepared so much for us while they were away. Even k-media reported on the unusual amount of content produced by BTS to span their enlistment time. It was reassuring and we were spoiled. Looking back, it was the quiet before the storm...

This "quiet before the storm" has never quieted before the storm like this quiet before the storm quieted the first quarter of 2024.

In April we witnessed a real eclipse in the sky and then while we were having the best time unraveling the mystery of the Monochrome merch popups, the shit hit the fan with the Min Hee Jin revelations. And that circus was just beginning. Maybe I'm just naive or too much of a positive person but I never fathomed that there were people out there this demented, this twisted, this delusional, controlling and narcissistic that they thought they could single-handedly bring down a huge company like Hybe via public opinion. And as time went on and continues to go on we learned she was not alone. That woman is sick and evil.

I recalled back in 2021 seeing people be paranoid about the young company, Hybe, hiring ex-SM employees. I wanted to believe these former SM employees they hired saw the opportunity to escape a toxic workplace and therefore defected to Hybe. Now we know the paranoia was justified.

The end of April and into May I watched Begins ≠ Youth, the drama series based on the BTS Universe. It took years for that series to finally see the light of day. It was very intriguing. There was a lot of controversy about Xclusive, the platform it was delivered on. My theory is it was an experiment to see how fans would react to a blockchain/NFT product. I have a huge post in my drafts about it but we moved on from it quickly, so I did too. The series was great though.

The rest of May was a month where we were trying to remain calm, trying to remain positive. We as a fandom felt very beat up. Anticipation was through the roof for Jin's military discharge and Festa.

But first, Namjoon released Right Place, Wrong Person, the studio album and subsequently, the accompanying documentary, Right People, Wrong Place. Both the album and documentary are critically acclaimed, winning awards and landing on "best of" lists across the globe.

Finally, it's June. Jin's discharge was so emotional for everyone. We were able to see everyone except Yoongi greet him outside the gates. But it was amazing seeing all 7 together in still photos afterward. It was a collective sigh of relief that we truly are beginning the downhill side of their military enlistment. Jin has been working his ass off since that day, his album Happy and its title song Running Wild doing well.

I know we've got our opinions about the South Korean government but that day, for me, seeing Jimin and Jungkook in their uniforms, as soldiers, just hit a spot in me that I can't describe. I felt proud of them. And I hope after their discharge they can tuck away that sense of accomplishment in a safe space and flip the bird at the bureaucrats running their country.

Jimin dropped his second album, Muse, in July, the mystery solved of what all those other producers were doing with Jimin the second half of 2022. The title song Who continues to chart. His songs are wonderful. I'm so proud of how far he's come during this solo era. I miss him.

And then Are You Sure?! happened. Even though we KNEW it was coming, I can't believe we got that show. I can't believe they did all of that. Naked Jimin except for a small pair of black shorts... naked Jungkook. Just so much naked after years of Victorian era artist protection CG over every square inch of bare skin. Watching that show, so much of what I knew in my mind of how they are together was mostly confirmed.

I said this months ago: After Jungkook’s 2023 Weverse lives, the Are You Sure?! series, their companion military enlistment and his documentary I Am Still the theatrical release and the Disney+ docu-series, it is clear that Jimin is Jungkook’s touchstone, a significant presence through at least this part of his life. We can’t know what the future holds, I would never dare to assume what their own personal desires or goals are for themselves, but I do know that Jimin will play a big part in it and I hope we still get to see some of that play out when it happens.

I'm still processing. I digressed. It happens when it comes to me, Jimin and Jungkook. Moving on.

August... my god. My dear Yoongi. We are still waiting to see him again, to see with our own eyes that he is actually ok and to figuratively take his hand in ours, to reassure each other and keep moving forward to leave this year far behind. I know he knows we are here. I can't stand the wall though, of not being able to see him. Does that make sense? I mostly keep my thoughts to myself about him because it really hurts my heart to think about him having to suffer through all that. August and into September were hard, hard… so hard.

Fast forward to October when Hobi stepped out of those doors on the day of his discharge, it seemed like time had flown by as if we just watched him leaving for training camp, even though it was sooooooo long ago.

And now he's lived in LA for almost a month, been in Japan and seen with more people... A possible fashion collab? Songs/album in February? We don't know anything for sure yet but info has leaked. A tour in spring? I'll be there if I can snag tickets.

We've seen glimpses of Tae and his buff self. His collab with Bing Crosby was ground breaking and hopefully will become a holiday classic just like the original. Also, happy birthday, Tae!

[Photo shared by Taehyung on his Instagram stories.]

December began shockingly with South Korea's President Yoon attempting to impose martial law. My heart dropped. Our guys were on red alert, scrambling. It lasted a few hours before being overturned by their national assembly.

Mid-December, while on a vacation leave, Jungkook surprised us with a 2 and a half hour live just like he used to do. He looked so good. He sounded good. From what I saw, he's still the same Jungkook.

Do you realize, if martial law had remained in effect, we would not have seen Jungkook? There would be no celebrating. We would all be in limbo. Who knows what that crazy shithead (now impeached-president Yoon) would have done if martial law was still in place. The slow reveal of information about the planning of it is chilling and should be a reminder to us all to not take things for granted. Their National Assembly are still trying to get everything under control, the turmoil is not over yet.

Somehow, the Universe is working overtime to get BTS through their service and I hope it continues to do so because we still have just under six months left. At this point, I believe anything could happen.

Counting down the hours to 2025

We are about to enter the holy Borayear of our Lord Min Yoongi 2025. Bestie and I talked a lot about what the possibilities might be for 2025.

Of course, like everyone else, we know nothing for sure, only what we've gleaned from the member's themselves, official announcements, news releases and hints here and there. What we DO know for sure is there will not be a void. We have two Tannies back with us. Music will be released, content produced:

January 4 is Jin's OST.

Not directly BTS related but we as a fandom would like some closure and satisfaction surrounding the MHJ drama because trials will begin in January.

Hobi has something coming. Certainly Hobi will have another EP, perhaps HOTS Vol. 2? which would be supported with a tour. There's been a leak of info. We are on high alert.

For the others, perhaps a few one-off singles before June. Between us, we don't think Tae has another album's worth of music. Jungkook either.

A Yoongi collab perhaps?

Namjoon, probably nothing. Poor baby is so ready to be discharged.

The Jimin x Benny Blanco music, whatever that may be.

Maybe that rumored JK x Tae subunit song. Or maybe it's not a song?

Jin mentioned another album but the timing is tight to squeeze it in before June.

Then the HYYH 10th Anniversary in April, whatever that may entail. A retrospective perhaps?

Attempting to predict how their discharge days will play out is difficult. Jin and Hobi splitting up to meet Namjoon and Tae at their respective bases? And then all four of them head to Jimin and Jungkook the next day to greet them as they exit their base? We wait with anticipation.

After the Boraholy month of June 2025, we expect group activities to ramp up. What those will be is anyone's guess. Weverse lives for sure. Also, dance practice videos. We expect new music. We also expect performances. Perhaps a one-off "we're baaAAAaack!" type concert? Or not. But performances of some sort. They've been looking forward so much to performing I can't see them waiting any longer than they have to for at least one performance somewhere, somehow.

And toward the end of 2025, a comeback album and the world tour announcement. May the odds be ever in your favor. Just kidding. I'm getting those tickets.

Our speculation continues... could new music consist of more subunits?

I could be wrong but I do not think they will revisit a Bon Voyage or In The Soop format. They might pick up Run BTS but it won’t be like it was before. I can’t even see them doing what Jin’s doing in many Run Jin episodes. Not as a group.

I think (I hope) that Yoongi picks up Suchwita again. I hope he does not change one iota of the format. He can address his incident again if he chooses, reiterate he apologized, paid his fine and now we’re moving on to live our big life. That’s it. I hope if this happens his first guest is BTS as a group. 

Maybe that last thing is really wishful thinking on my part but even considering Yoongi might ditch Suchwita or change it just doesn’t align with who he is. He is a “fuck you” type of guy. 

Anyway. 2025 has a promise of hope and happiness and relief and closure. But now, I think we all know to be wary, that anything can happen. 

Bottomline to all of this, to wrap up the year and look forward to the new year is that BTS is COMING BACK. SEVEN MEMBERS STRONG.

The reality is, it will be three years from that day back in 2022, when we finally see them as a group again. The members are slowly becoming more active. We have less than six months to wait and we know how fast that can go. 163 days left for Jimin and Jungkook, 162 for Namjoon and Tae, 173 left for Yoongi.

We must enjoy every moment we can until June 2025 and hope for the best! FIGHTING.

[townpostin]

Kolhan's Tourism Potential Highlighted by SCCI to State Officials

Chamber meets with Tourism Dept., presents proposals for regional development The Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) delegation discussed Kolhan’s tourism potential with state officials. JAMSHEDPUR – SCCI representatives met with Tourism Department officials to propose enhancements for Kolhan’s tourism sector. During the meeting in Ranchi, the SCCI delegation, spearheaded by…

[kropotkindersurprise]

PFLP poster commemorating the assassination of Rehavam Ze'evi on October 17, 2001. Ze'evi was an IDF general and far-right politician, and was minister of tourism in the Israeli government when he was killed by a four-man PFLP squad.

The operation was in retaliation for the murder of PFLP secretary-general Abu Ali Mustafah by Israel in august of that year. [link]

[coochiequeens]

Archeaology gives us the name of another woman in History

Archaeologists digging in one of the oldest cities in Egypt have discovered evidence that sheds new light on the life of the ancient Egyptian queen Merneith, who ruled during the 1st Dynasty.

The excavation of a tomb in the Umm al-Qaab area in Abydos found an inscription on a “stone vessel” that provides new historical information about Merneith’s reign, during which she held “a great position” and was responsible for the central government offices, said Christiana Köhler, who led the dig.

“It has been speculated that Merneith may have been the first female Pharaoh in Ancient Egypt,” Köhler said in a news release, “but her true identity remains a mystery,”

A fragment of a stone vessel recently found in the tomb of Queen Merneith. It has an incised inscription with her name on the right and the mention of the royal treasury on the left. Photo courtesy of EC Köhler, M Minotti.

Köhler specified that Merneith, also known as Meret-Neith, may have been in charge of the treasury among other government offices, supporting the idea of her historical significance. She is the only 1st-Dynasty woman whose tomb has been uncovered in Abydos so far.

“Considering that these are the remains of people’s lives and actions from 5,000 years ago, we are stunned every day at the amazing detail we encounter during our investigations, including the perfectly preserved grape seeds, craftwork and even footprints in the mud,” Köhler said over email.

The wine jars are seen during the excavation of Merneith’s tomb. Photo courtesy of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Archaeology

Egypt’s Tourism Ministry highlighted hundreds of 5,000-year-old wine jars found in the tomb in the Umm al-Qaab area in Abydos, one of the oldest cities in Egypt located about 354 miles south of Cairo. Photo courtesy of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Archaeology

Discoveries made in the dig also “challenge the long-held belief in human sacrifice,” Köhler added in the news release.

Next to Merneith’s burial site, archaeologists found a group of 41 tombs for her courtiers and servants, indicating these chambers were built during different periods of time.

“This observation, together with other evidence, radically challenges the oft-proposed, but unproven idea of ritual human sacrifice in the 1st Dynasty,” Köhler said.

The news release highlighted the discovery of hundreds of 5,000-year-old wine jars that had never been opened. The archaeological team—hailing from Egypt, Germany and Austria—found the remains of wine inside.

Mustafa Waziri, Secretary General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, said in a statement that the discovered jars are large in size and “in a good condition of preservation.”

“Some of them are very well preserved with their jar stoppers still intact,” Köhler said.

[wdwdiotr]

Epilogue Sara, she becomes a flight attendant instead! Muther says shes too reckless to become a pilot.

Moreeee info beloooooowww. Kinda! I suck at writing so I'll draw these random blurts someday instead (Someday). Beware, it's super long, and super ramble-y

Oh Sara, how did she become a FLIGHT ATTENDANT of all things?

WELL! She was asked by Pete if she could drive them to this convention for nerds cuz he knew she had a driver's license, she was fine with it as long as she could drive on her scooter

But the scooter couldn't handle all their weight combined. So she had to instead borrow her mom mum's car

When she drove the boys to the comic convention, she didn't. She instead drove into a random tree. (Almost! It's not her fault she's a left hand side driver, it comes with being british!) She was able to hit the brakes fast enough before they could all die, but of course the boys were angry (Jerry less so becuz he's the word simp personified)

Bill went on a rampant about it to her, and told her basically that she was stupid enough to nearly crash a car, how was she going to drive a whole plane?! And that set something off in her, so after the drive back home (And getting in trouble) she asked her mum if she could drive her to her office on the weekends, her mum was hesitant so she resorted to begging. It worked.

Sara is basically trained once more how to drive by american standards by her mum, so she eventually got better! She asked Pete a second time if she could drive them, Bill cuts him off by telling her to fuck off. A week of begging ensued before Jerry caved and asked if she could drive him to magiccon at _____, Sara beamed with delight.

This caused a slight commotion in the club, cause on one hand, they could die, though on the other hand.. their gross minds wandered, what if Jerry is left alone with a female, in a CAR. What would've happened?? What if he gets some action before they do?! I mean they might as well die when that happens. This was one of the only times Jerry was stubborn enough to do what he actually wanted, so they couldn't convince him to just not go. (Damn.)

Jerry is sad because he genuinely did expect to get some action and some time alone with a girl. But instead he's in the backseat again with his good ol' pals. (Nothing would've happened whether they were alone together or not, Sara is as sex repulsed as a 7 year old boy who thinks cooties are real.)

OKAY ANYWAYS, after a finally peaceful and slow drive and day to magiccon, Sara huffs with pride as they got back home without crashing into any trees.

Without her notice, she got into the club! The title, Secretary of having a driver's license Aircraft was bestowed upon her. She actually did get giddy over it though.

They become friends, sort of. They're still degenerates at the end of the day. (THEY CAN'T HELP IT OKAY?!? (They can)) They treat her better after This fan, This monster.

Speaking of that! After news got out that one of her 'friends', Bill, arson-ed the only comic book shop around, her mum became stricter on her and threw out most of her stuff that sorta related to being in that club, including her scooter, helmet, and goggles!

Muther: I'm taking all these and throwing them out! I knew those boys were up to no good, they never are! (Hoo boy, projection much? But she was right, you know)

OH THE HORROR

She did feel bad for Bill, sort of.

They moved to NYC after a while so she wouldn't have a 'relapse moment and try to go back to her degenerate friends.' -Muther's words. The only way she stayed in contact with the other three were by phone booths and a dream. After turning into an adult she was able to independently get a phone of her own without her mum blasting her.

(Jerry attempts to pursue a long distance relationship with her, she ghosts him for a while because divorced child ptsd. But now they're friendly again, she's very fond of Mandi! Red haired girls!)

When college came by, she got forced to take a tourism course and become a flight attendant as her mummy thought it'd keep her on her toes. The End.

'I should've went with dad instead..' - Famous last words of Sara Calloway.