“Hey, wanna go out to eat somewhere?” is perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to dining out. Going to a restaurant – fancy or casual – is a fun and delicious activity. From business lunch to romantic dinner dates, going out to eat is a great way to catch up while enjoying yummy foods. While you can go out to dine with anyone – friends, family, colleagues – you can also simply ask for a table for one. Ever done that? If the answer is yes, you know where this article is headed. If not, you are missing out on an incredible experience. Eating alone does not mean shutting yourself. It is definitely not boring. Rather, the experience will help you feel closer to yourselves as well as the world you live in.
Here’s Why You Should Try Asking “Table For One, Please”:
1. A Sense Of Independence
If you are eating out alone, it does not mean that you are lonely. Instead, it is being independent enough to go out wherever you want, whenever you want, eat whatever you like and pay the bill by yourself. Since you could not go out alone for dining as a child, the ability to do so now will make you feel empowered and all grown-up in a good way. Give it a try!
When eating with company, you will have to or want to make conversation. Eating with someone can be a great bonding activity, however, chatting distracts us from our food to some level. If you eat a tempting dish at a restaurant all by yourselves, you are more likely to focus on your food and relish every bite to the fullest.
3. Eat Whatever You Want
Whether you are eating with just a person or a big group of 12, it is not considered polite to force your choice and taste on everyone in the group. People first discuss and place their order, and you might miss out on that dish you really wanted to try. Well, if you are eating alone, you can order and eat whatever you like without worrying about anyone else.
Also Read:Having Cooking Anxiety? 7 Ways To Grow Confidence In The Kitchen
4. Eat However You Like
Photo: iStock
Even if you are dining with your partner or closest friend, eating with company pushes us to adhere to dining etiquette. However, when there is no one watching, you are likely to feel more comfortable and not care for how you look while you eat a huge bite or drop the sushi from your chopsticks by mistake.
5. Talk To New People Outside Your Circle
Making dining plans with someone means you are not just going out to eat, but also spending time with that person. Being focused on the conversation and your company in general leaves little room to interact with new people. However, if you are by yourselves, you might be more likely to interact with the staff or anyone else in your surroundings, giving rise to new experiences.
If you have never eaten by yourselves, start with a more casual place like a sandwich shop or a burger joint. Once you feel more comfortable, you can even go to a fancy restaurant, all dressed up and full of confidence.
So, when are taking yourselves out for a yummy meal?
Dining out at a fancy restaurant is surely a pleasant experience for many. While some go for the delicious food, others enjoy the service, presentation and overall vibe. However, there is always a section of people who cannot help but discuss the inflated prices of basic dishes at upscale restaurants. Recently, a woman visited one of the restaurants by Virat Kohli and shared her experience on X (formerly Twitter). She posted a picture of bhutta (corn on the cob). The snap featured a few slices of corn plated with a dollop of dipping sauce and garnished with scallions.
In her caption, she highlighted the dish’s staggering price. She said, “Paid ₹525 for this today at One8 Commune,” accompanied by a crying emoji.
Also Read: “Mumbaikers Are Angry”: Internet Fumes Over ‘Reverse’ Vada Pav
Well, the post didn’t sit well with the people online. Several X users reacted to the woman’s post. Check out some of the reactions below:
A person wrote, “You didn’t pay for this. You paid for the vibes.”
You didn’t pay for this. You paid for the vibes ????— Wojak (@wojakcodes) January 11, 2025
Another said, “Money is ambience, service & cleanliness. That comfy chair, good-looking rich people around, nice crockeries. Get the same thing in thela for 30Rs. The choice is yours.”
Money is Ambience, Service & Cleanliness . That comfy chair, good looking rich ppl around, nice crockeries. Isn’t it ?
Get the same thing in Thela for 30Rs.
Choice is Urs.— Samiran Ghosh (@samiranghosh87) January 12, 2025
Echoing a similar sentiment, a user said, “Well, usually, they charge for the ambience. Food is anyway basic. But the ambience makes it better.”
Well, usually, they charge for the ambience. Food is anyway basic. But the ambience makes it better.— Vivek Naskar (@vivek_naskar) January 12, 2025
A few pointed out “You knew this before ordering, so stop crying.”
You knew this before ordering, so stop crying— Veena Jain (@DrJain21) January 12, 2025
“Behen, bahar se butta kha leti 20 ka ataa. [Sister, you could’ve just eaten corn from outside for 20 bucks.],” said another.
Behen bahar se butta kha leti 20 ka ataa— Isha Goyal (@ishaaagoyal) January 13, 2025
Meanwhile, a section on social media backed the woman and called the dish “expensive.”
Also Read: 1-Year-Old Girl In Gujarat Gets Diarrhoea After Eating Popular Snack Containing Dead Rat
Itnaaa mehngaaaa baapreeee— Matilda (@mansebanjaran) January 13, 2025
A user wrote, “Itnaaa mehngaaaa baapreeee. [So expensive, oh my God!]”
Itnaaa mehngaaaa baapreeee— Matilda (@mansebanjaran) January 13, 2025
“Isse acha chole bhature kha lete [You should have eaten chole bhature instead],” wrote a user.
Isse acha chole bhature kha lete ????— Ankit (@terakyalenadena) January 12, 2025
What do you think about this post? Tell us your opinion in the comments section below.
Looking for a restaurant that has great food and even a better bar? Try the newly-opened CAYA. Since its launch in November 2023, CAYA has swiftly positioned itself as one of South Delhi’s premier hotspots for both great dining and lively entertainment. Situated in the bustling lanes of South Extension 2, this unique venue offers much more than just a meal – it is a full-sensory experience that effortlessly blends global cuisine with an exciting array of events.
Upon entering CAYA, I was immediately struck by the spacious, thoughtfully designed interiors. The venue spans two levels: the upper level features a sleek bar area for those seeking a more relaxed vibe, while the lower level is closer to the stage and offers a front-row view for performances, The seating options are varied, from conventional table and chair setups to intimate lounge areas, ensuring there is something for everyone. The decor is a tasteful fusion of contemporary and traditional elements, creating a stylish and welcoming atmosphere.
Coming to the food, their menu is a mix of Continental, European, Asian, Modern Indian, and Mediterranean flavours. I loved almost everything on the menu. My favourite was Red Rooster – peri peri chicken pizza – and it was perfect. I am done with almost the same pizzas everywhere – this was something unique, with a soft base and full of flavourful toppings and lots of cherry tomatoes. Both Tangra Chilli Chicken and Amritsari Paneer Tikka whet the tikka craving of vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The tikkas were succulent, smoky and oh-so tasty.
No dining experience at CAYA would be complete without exploring their cocktail menu. They have a large bar with a variety of spirits and some really tempting cocktails. If you like gin, don’t miss their ‘Kaya Hill’ cocktail concocted with Bombay Sapphire. And if you are a vodka person, my recommendation is ‘Coco Berry’ – a delightful drink flavoured with passion fruit, vanilla and fresh berries.
What truly sets CAYA apart is its seamless integration of food and entertainment. The venue regularly hosts stand-up comedy nights, soothing Sufi performances, and high-energy DJ sessions, ensuring there is never a dull moment.
You can safely call CAYA a cultural hub that has redefined the modern dining and entertainment scene in Delhi. With its diverse menu, impeccable service, and dynamic events, it’s the perfect place to indulge in a gourmet meal, unwind with friends, or revel in the city’s electrifying nightlife.
What: CAYA Where: South Extension 2, New Delhi Cost: INR 2,500 for two people (approx.)
(Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
Step into this meticulously maintained waterfront home at 941 Don Juan Court, Punta Gorda (33950), to experience living the Florida lifestyle. A spacious open floor plan is suitable for an array of furnishing and décor options that meet your needs.
The bright and welcoming main living area is a huge canvas waiting for your creative design. The recently updated kitchen features new stainless-steel appliances, gorgeous quartz countertops, touchless faucet, soft-close cabinets, and a double-door pantry with ample storage for food, beverages and small appliances. Plus, enjoy convenient access to the garage via the fire-retardant safety door.
Your spacious primary suite is complete with a walk-in closet and updated en suite bathroom with double shower. The updated guest bathroom features a new tile shower, sink and backsplash, and adjoins the second generously sized guest suite with a walk-in closet.
The expansive, all-seasons Florida room adds an additional 250 square feet of under-air living and entertaining space, and boasts impact windows, electric shades and a convenient passthrough counter bar, all overlooking your resurfaced saltwater pool, new waterfall fountain feature and expanded paved pool deck. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the new 10,000-pound boatlift and 40-foot concrete dock (with electric and water) situated along the city-maintained concrete sea wall. Enjoy Florida’s sunny days and balmy evenings from your screened lanai.
Many additional updates include a newer A/C system, updated impact windows, new washer and dryer, updated remote operational irrigation system, new patio and deck pavers, and new screened pool cage. This home is equipped with hurricane shutters and — best of all — there are no HOA fees.
Listed at $619,900, this home is in a convenient location — just a short distance to Ponce De Leon Park, Fishermen’s Village and the Harborwalk, and is close to downtown shops, restaurants and galleries. It’s just five minutes from I-75 and 10 minutes from Punta Gorda Airport where Allegiant Airlines offers nonstop flights to over 60 destinations.
For more information, contact Crystal Coovert, Premier Properties by Walker Realty Group Florida, at 813-299-2417. ¦
— Although the information about the homes featured here is as current as possible, a property might be off the market by press time.
Step into this meticulously maintained waterfront home at 941 Don Juan Court, Punta Gorda (33950), to experience living the Florida lifestyle. A spacious open floor plan is suitable for an array of furnishing and décor options that meet your needs.
The bright and welcoming main living area is a huge canvas waiting for your creative design. The recently updated kitchen features new stainless-steel appliances, gorgeous quartz countertops, touchless faucet, soft-close cabinets, and a double-door pantry with ample storage for food, beverages and small appliances. Plus, enjoy convenient access to the garage via the fire-retardant safety door.
Your spacious primary suite is complete with a walk-in closet and updated en suite bathroom with double shower. The updated guest bathroom features a new tile shower, sink and backsplash, and adjoins the second generously sized guest suite with a walk-in closet.
The expansive, all-seasons Florida room adds an additional 250 square feet of under-air living and entertaining space, and boasts impact windows, electric shades and a convenient passthrough counter bar, all overlooking your resurfaced saltwater pool, new waterfall fountain feature and expanded paved pool deck. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the new 10,000-pound boatlift and 40-foot concrete dock (with electric and water) situated along the city-maintained concrete sea wall. Enjoy Florida’s sunny days and balmy evenings from your screened lanai.
Many additional updates include a newer A/C system, updated impact windows, new washer and dryer, updated remote operational irrigation system, new patio and deck pavers, and new screened pool cage. This home is equipped with hurricane shutters and — best of all — there are no HOA fees.
Listed at $619,900, this home is in a convenient location — just a short distance to Ponce De Leon Park, Fishermen’s Village and the Harborwalk, and is close to downtown shops, restaurants and galleries. It’s just five minutes from I-75 and 10 minutes from Punta Gorda Airport where Allegiant Airlines offers nonstop flights to over 60 destinations.
For more information, contact Crystal Coovert, Premier Properties by Walker Realty Group Florida, at 813-299-2417. ¦
— Although the information about the homes featured here is as current as possible, a property might be off the market by press time.
Maseru – Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB) is preparing for a momentous occasion as it celebrates the 20th edition of the Letofe Lifestyle Experience. This iconic event, set to be held in 21 December, promises an unforgettable fusion of music, fashion, food, and family-friendly activities.
For two decades, SLB has made the Letofe Lifestyle event a cornerstone of Lesotho’s entertainment calendar. What began as a small initiative has grown into a significant celebration that supports and promotes local artistry, cultural pride, and economic growth. This year’s milestone edition underscores SLB’s continued commitment to fostering community spirit and supporting Lesotho’s socio-economic development.
This 20th anniversary of the Letofe Lifestyle event will be an even grander celebration, featuring an exciting line-up of activities for attendees of all ages. It will include electrifying musical performances, fashion, culinary delights, all offering a true reflection of Basotho culture and what putting Lesotho on the map.
The festival’s music lineup will span multiple genres, featuring both well-established artists and emerging talents from Lesotho. From the soulful sounds of local jazz musicians to the vibrant rhythms of contemporary and traditional music, the performances will celebrate Lesotho’s diverse musical landscape. Notable headliners such as Zonke, Lira, and Morena Leraba, an internationally acclaimed artist who has made a name for himself across Europe, will headline the event, ensuring an unforgettable musical experience for all attendees.
The food experience at Letofe Lifestyle promises to be another highlight. The event will feature a wide variety of food stalls, offering everything from beloved local dishes to international flavors, giving visitors the chance to experience Lesotho’s culinary diversity. Food lovers will be able to sample some of the best traditional favorites while enjoying a variety of international and fusion options, creating a feast for the senses.
SLB’s Letofe Lifestyle Experience is not only a celebration of culture but also a powerful platform for economic development. Over the years, SLB has been a staunch advocate for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local businesses. This year’s event will once again provide an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products and services, promoting entrepreneurship and job creation in Lesotho. The festival’s broad exposure will provide SMEs with an invaluable marketing platform, helping them connect with new customers and grow their businesses.
Mr. Manyathela Kheleli, SLB’s Marketing Manager for Communications and Sponsorship, emphasized the significance of the event as an economic driver. “Letofe Lifestyle has grown into a cultural staple for Lesotho, and this year, we are excited to elevate it even further. It’s not just about the entertainment, it’s about fostering local businesses, empowering communities, and building a brighter future for the people of Lesotho,” Kheleli said.
In his remarks, event organizer Mr. Montoeli shared the inspiring history of Letofe, tracing its roots back to 2005. Originally launched as a jazz festival, the event has evolved to encompass a variety of music genres, expanding its reach and appeal. Mr. Montoeli explained that Letofe began as the Lesotho Tourism Jazz Festival, but in order to sustain its growth and embrace a broader audience, the event was renamed SLB Letofe Lifestyle. This name symbolizes a blend of music, fashion, and culture, reflecting the event’s transformation from a single-genre celebration to a comprehensive cultural experience.
Mr. Montoeli further acknowledged that the success of the event over the years is largely due to the support from key sponsors. “We wouldn’t be here today without the generous backing of sponsors who have been with us every step of the way,” he said, thanking SLB, Alliance Insurance, the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC), and others for their continued support.
SLB’s involvement in the Letofe Lifestyle event is also a reflection of the bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Over the years, SLB has consistently invested in initiatives that foster community development, promote education, and enhance the quality of life for Basotho citizens.
“Standard Lesotho Bank recognizes the importance of arts and culture in driving national development,” said Mr. Manyathela Kheleli. “This is why we are committed to the Letofe Lifestyle Experience, which serves not only as a celebration of Lesotho’s rich cultural heritage but also as an important avenue for promoting the arts and nurturing creative industries. SLB’s support for Letofe is an investment in the economic and artistic future of Lesotho.”
Letofe Lifestyle has been instrumental in providing exposure for both emerging and established artists. Renowned local artist, Adv. Mookho Moqhali, who has performed at the event for several years, praised the festival for its role in promoting regional and international recognition for local artists. “Letofe has been an incredible platform for my career,” she said. “Thanks to the exposure I’ve gained here, I’ve been able to grow my brand and connect with international audiences. It’s also a powerful platform for empowering women in the arts. If it weren’t for the overwhelming support from the Basotho people, I wouldn’t have achieved the success I have today.”
The 20th edition of Letofe Lifestyle also marks an important milestone for the nation as a whole. The event’s 20-year anniversary coincides with the 200th anniversary of the Basotho Nation, making this year’s festival even more significant. As part of the celebrations, SLB has curated a fantastic lineup of performers, including headliners Zonke, Lira, and Morena Leraba, who will represent Lesotho with pride on the global stage.
To show appreciation to its loyal customers, SLB is offering a 6% discount on tickets for those purchasing with their Blue Cards. This gesture is a way of thanking the community for their unwavering support over the years.
The 20th SLB Letofe Lifestyle Experience promises to be a truly monumental event. It will celebrate the incredible talent, creativity, and unity of the Basotho people, while also providing a significant platform for local businesses and artists. For the people of Lesotho and visitors alike, this is an event not to be missed, a chance to immerse yourself in the culture, creativity, and community spirit that make Lesotho unique.
Join Standard Lesotho Bank in celebrating 20 years of Letofe Lifestyle, and be part of a spectacular celebration of Lesotho’s arts, culture, and community. Experience the magic of Lesotho and witness first-hand the power of creativity and collaboration as the nation comes together for this historic event.
Searing Lifestyle Event in Town? ARY Gold Street Experience Exhibition Pops Up in Mind!
This fantastic event is the center of discussion in every segment of society nowadays, and rightly so because it offers something significant to the masses. It lets them jump out of a hectic routine and take time for themselves for personal grooming. This is all they get at this great event organized by ARY Bee Global at PC Hotel Karachi on December 5, 2024, 10 AM-10 PM.
Remember that every aspect of a lifestyle will be catered to, such as the manifestation of stylish clothes, jewelry, beauty essentials & sessions, furniture, appliances, and different travel packages, so pondering to visit it is a must for you. Furthermore, the distinctive element that has caught the attention of the masses on a larger scale is the opportunity to save up to 80% of gold against purchases at the ARY Sahulat Bazar. Moreover, it is a free-entry event, so mark your calendar for 5th December 2024 to attend this incredible event full of fun, shopping, and celebrity meetups.
ARY Bee Global Takes a Driving Seat for Entrepreneurial Acceleration in Pakistan!
Without a doubt, ARY Bee Global has cut a broad swathe through Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape, encouraging businesses to digitize and acquire global expansion, rewarding them with more profit and reputable popularity worldwide. Furthermore, this fabulous event organized by ARY Bee Global is one of the accurate depictions of creating a ground for different renowned brands to showcase their products and capitalize on this lifestyle gala. Moreover, many more similar events have been lined up by ARY Bee Global; thus, the entrepreneurial landscape of Pakistan will soon be lining up among the world’s top entrepreneurial spheres.
What’s 80% Gold-Saving & How It Benefits You?
It is a saving scheme you never find on any other e-commerce platform except ARY Sahulat Bazar in Pakistan, enabling you to hoard gold with each purchase on ARY Sahulat Bazar. It lays a foundation for gold acquisition in installments with routine shopping online at ARY Sahulat Bazar rather than rushing to spend your large proportion of savings to clutch a massive worth of gold. Furthermore, there are different gold-saving plans for customers’ convenience, so go according to your needs and turn online shopping into a profitable online purchasing experience. Below are the gold-saving plans, so opt for the one that suits your requirements precisely:
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Important Note: “Your gold saving journey starts after completing 25000 worth of shopping at ARY Sahulat Bazar”.
Make the Most Out of Sahulat Wallet Card
It’s an ARY Sahulat wallet card full of gold-saving benefits on ARY Sahulat Bazar, and it begins generating your ARY Coins after completing your preferred gold-saving plan. Hence, stop lingering over this fantastic opportunity and sign up for this card to explore perfect gold-saving wonders at ARY Sahulat Bazar.
Final Words
Having gained this valuable insight into the most-awaited ARY Gold Street Experience Exhibition, it is clear that in the upcoming years, ARY Bee Global will transform Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape completely, with massive foreign investment driving into it, which will work as pillars for a thriving Pakistani economy.
WORTHINGTON — The Worthington High School girls hockey team was young last year and it is more of the same this season.
This year’s Trojans squad may be even younger than last year with only two seniors on the roster. But head coach Chad Nickel’s team is not one completely lacking in varsity experience, as many of the younger girls got plenty of playing time as eighth graders last year.
“So far, we’re picking up on our speed,” said the coach. “A little more communication on the ice between the girls has been a lot better this year already. But we’re still yet a young team, but you can see the progression even from the eighth graders to ninth grade this year already.”
WHS is four games into the season and still in search of its first win.
The season opened Nov. 12 with a 10-0 loss to Mankato West and then a narrow 1-0 loss to Austin followed two days later. After that came a 7-0 shutout defeat to Marshall Nov. 21 and the latest loss came 3-1 to South Central Nov. 23.
Continued growth and development is key if the Trojans want to be a competitive team this year and Nickel has already seen that, especially from his younger players.
The standout youngsters include a nice group of freshmen with that varsity experience as eighth graders. Forwards Breeta Johnson, Sydnie Van Briesen and Maddie Cummings, along with defenders Tayler Nickel and Leah Nelson all saw playing time last year.
There’s also fellow freshman Macie Mahlberg at the goalie position, with playing time there last year and is improving with every match.
A Worthington Trojans assistant hockey coach fires pucks at goalie Macie Mahlberg (1) during a recent afternoon practice at the Worthington Ice Arena.
Tim Middagh / The Globe
The group is all back with all of them gaining valuable experience in their first varsity seasons a year ago.
“Oh, that’s huge as far as the maturity level, and, like said, more ice time and the play going from a youth to a varsity level, the speed is a lot faster,” Nickel said.
Leading the way on the ice are the lone two seniors Sadie and Peyton Nickel. Sadie is back at her primary position on defense and Peyton, herself normally a defender, has moved up to forward this year.
The position change has been a big adjustment for Peyton, but she’s already getting used to playing at the forward spot.
“Forward is definitely a lot more work, a lot more skating,” she said. “So it’s taking a lot more, having to put in a lot more work and get more in shape. But I like forward more than defense. I feel like I’ve improved a lot over just the past couple games as a forward.”
Being one of only two seniors on the roster, Peyton is also stepping up into a bigger leadership role along with Sadie. She said the time on varsity last year from the freshmen has paid off in terms of team chemistry and that the team is connecting well with each other.
The lone two seniors on the Worthington High School girls hockey team are Sadie Nickel (left) and Peyton Nickel.
Tim Middagh / The Globe
On the ice, the Trojans still have a lot to learn, but the head coach is seeing his team working together well and getting better defensively at cutting down opposing shots on goal. He still wants to see improvement on offense.
“We’re going to continue to try to work on gaining their speed with some stick handling and being able to forecheck a little bit more in the offensive zone to try to create more pressure down there in the offensive zone,” said Chad.
WHS still has plenty of its schedule left to go in the regular season and up next is a game Dec. 6 at Prairie Centre. Two more road games are after that, including one at a Luverne team that went to state last year, before returning to the Worthington Ice Arena Dec. 12 against Windom Area.
The Worthington High School girls hockey team warms up with high speed lap during a recent afternoon practice at the Worthington Ice Arena.
Tim Middagh / The Globe
As the season progresses, the Trojans will look to keep their early momentum going in terms of having solid chemistry and being competitive.
“For myself, I want to see a lot of improvement,” said Peyton. “As a team I think that we need to work together better and I think after a while, after a couple more games, we’re going to get that connection. We’re finally going to get it and get it going.”
“I’d like to see them continue to grow and be a more competitive team,” said Chad. “And that’s always been my goal is to create a competitive team.”
Skyler Jackson joined the Globe in July 2023 as a reporter covering both news and sports. Born and raised in Sioux City, Iowa, Skyler attended South Dakota State University and graduated in 2023 with a degree in journalism. After graduating college, he decided on settling in Worthington for his current job at the Globe.
Last season’s nail-biting escape from relegation feels like a distant ghost as the Suns prepare to rise again, fuelled with the fire of promise, as another Victorian Premier League Two campaign waits in the wings.
And with new challenges comes new blood.
The Orangemen have gone down the English route again with their recruiting blitz, bringing in two bright-eyed youngsters to help bolster the Suns’ stocks for 2025.
Having announced Christos Papakonstantinou earlier in the month, the Suns have enlisted the services of Tommy Blennerhassett and Danny Edwards, two UK imports hailing from professional academy backgrounds.
Blennerhassett, a nimble forward with a nose for goal, is one that coach Craig Carley is hoping can live up to his reputation as a bagsman.
“Tommy has been a goal scorer everywhere he’s gone,” Carley said.
“He came with a huge reputation as a youngster for scoring a lot of goals — I think he scored the two winning goals in the FA Youth Cup final back in the UK for MK Dons.
“He got loaned out to a couple of teams whilst he was on the books of MK Dons too.
“He’s young, he’s quick, he works hard and I really do think he’ll suit our style of play.”
While Blennerhassett will cause havoc in the forward line, compatriot Edwards will seek to conduct the midfield as a versatile ball-player.
The technician has professional first team experience at Fleetwood Town, featuring in the Football League and the FA Cup.
It’s that kind of class that Carley wants to harness in his system next season as the Suns seek to improve on their 10th placing in the 2024 VPL2 campaign.
“He certainly comes with high-level pedigree and he’s playing now at a high-level standard back in the UK,” Carley said.
“We’re really excited to have him; he’s a versatile player who can play anywhere in midfield and he’ll add a bit of quality to our side as well.
“I’m really looking forward to welcoming him to the squad.”
Edwards and Blennerhassett are expected to bring a hunger sharpened by the crucible of English non-league and professional football and are expected to arrive in Shepparton in early January.
Carley also indicated the club was currently finalising its OFC/Asian import slot, which will be announced in the next fortnight.
But what about the locals?
The Goulburn Valley base is well into pre-season with Carley believing his charges are “ahead of where we should be in terms of fitness”, and after a competitive hit-out against PlaySport Agency at the weekend, all signs are pointing north for the Suns.
“Saturday’s game was really good against a quality side,” he said.
“I thought we performed really well with a youngish squad against a touring team from the UK of players who are all looking to secure Visa spots over in Australia.
“Boys certainly didn’t look out of place and there were plenty that impressed, (so) hopefully we can kick on this year.
“It’s a bit of a rebuild for the club, but it seems to be the story just with the logistics of where we are in terms of players coming and going.
“It’s an exciting project; we want to be a club that develops as many junior local players as we possibly can and blood them in a senior environment and we’ll continue to do that.”
A MINI is a unique vehicle for a unique customer. No matter if owners are rolling behind the wheel of a MINI Countryman or a MINI Cooper S, they will be appeased and enthused by the classic design themes, sporty proportions, and exhilarating go-kart performance of these lifestyle cars and crossovers. Now, electrification is part of the portfolio, highlighted by the all-electric 2025 MINI Countryman SE ALL4.
For the current lifecycle, the MINI brand is infusing its portfolio with 11 new models to change the outlook of consumer perception and to stay on top of the small car segment. By the end of 2025 the reinvention strategy will represent the most progressive changes since the company’s inception in 1959. A key focus will be on MINI’s largest models – (Countryman S and Countryman SE) which are longer, taller, and rebuilt from the ground up for traveling and active families. The compact SUV will help engaged owners thrive in both the city and the countryside, especially with increased interior room for gear and equipment and ALL4 all-wheel drive to take on any terrain type and adverse weather. It also represents the first MINI with Level 2 assistance systems for semi-automated driving, if that’s your thing. It’s definitely not mine because I want to control my ride at all times.
Bernhard Filser
“The new all-electric, all-wheel-drive MINI Countryman is the epitome of versatility and driving pleasure. It is the first MINI “Made in Germany” and makes a statement for environmentally friendly mobility. Thanks to its increased dimensions, it is a vehicle for the entire family,” says Stefanie Wurst, head of MINI.
I had a chance to drive and evaluate the all-electric MINI Countryman SE in South Carolina at the BMW Performance Driving Center during the BMW Group’s annual media event featuring most of its roster. The Countryman SE exudes a sense of adventure and versatility, encapsulated in a bold design and cutting-edge technologies. With expectations of the MINI brand going all-electric by 2030, product planners laid the foundation for a mobility shift that will see a vastly reduced carbon footprint from MINI’s squad of legendary automobiles. Combining instantaneous electric torque, regenerative braking, and stellar cornering with dynamic driving, every road trip will be a joy.
The MINI SUV is ignited by two electric motors with a total output of 308-horsepower and 364 lb.-ft. of torque for a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.4 seconds. Combined with the 66.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Countryman SE can achieve an EPA electric range of up to 212 miles. However, that needs to increase dramatically to appease today’s drivers who are taking more long-distance journeys in their new rides. This vehicle should at least be able to hit 300 electric miles. As part of the EV ownership experience, plan to install a Level 2 charger (240-volt) at your home. This will alleviate the need to find public charging on busy days. Yet, expect to pay $1,000 or more for the unit and installation. However, you should be able to find local deductions from the state or your utility company.
Bernhard Filser
The MINI Countryman SE embraces a minimalist silhouette, reflecting adventure and versatility. Overall, styling is more robust but streamlined with a surfboard-designed roof that cuts through the elements, a simplified power-dome hood, a new octagonal-shaped grille, new signature lights, 18” or 20” light alloy rims, a flush rear bumper, and vertical LED taillamps. A panoramic glass roof brings energetic light into the sustainable cabin.
The vertical theme follows the interior including the vents and door handles. A plant-based cockpit from leather-free upholstery, fewer parts for construction, and human-centric amenities are additionally implemented. The 9.4” OLED circular center display and MINI Operating System 9 provide all the necessary information for an intuitive drive. From here, you control the infotainment features, MINI Navigation, assistance systems, MINI Driving Sounds, and MINI Experience Modes, whether Core, Green, Personal, Timeless, Balance, Vivid, or Trail. The digital tunes from the MINI Driving Sounds coincide with the theme chosen for an immersive driving experience.
The enthusiastic MINI brand will continue to digitize its community while leaving a smaller carbon footprint behind. Its reduced economic dependence stems from 90% recycled materials, secondary aluminum, and increased sensors in place of heavier parts. Moreover, MINI’s philosophy of Charismatic Simplicity will dictate the design direction, focusing on three key elements: a sporty and thick multifunction steering wheel, intelligent command center, and toggle switches. I’m also a fan of the two-tone textiles lining the dash and doors. Everything about the car is simplistic and integrates sound, projection, and light for one curated driving encounter.
Bernhard Filser
With an MSRP of $45,200, there are two MINI Countryman style packages to choose from: Classic and Favoured. An 8-year / 100,000-mile battery warranty adds to the 4-year / 50,000-mile limited warranty and 3-year complimentary maintenance program. Upgrade to the $3,200 Iconic Trim package to receive privacy glass, power front seats, interior cameras, and the must-have Harmon Kardon audio system.
The fun, entertaining, and youthful 2025 Countryman SE ALL4 captures the essence and mindset of the MINI community, but now with an electrified attitude. Are you ready to ride the all-electric MINI wave?
