jb casino

There are two ways you can look at my relationship with Christmas. You could say that it brings out the giddy child within, reconnecting me to a simpler time, one before mortgage and relationship stress, and the stress of stressing about being too stressed. Or, you could say a rigid attachment to childish ideals of Christmas magic brings out the unlovable, uncompromising psychotic in me, putting a backlight to the faults and fissures of my adult personality. My family would probably choose the latter. I still have plans to inflict a fair amount of festive cheer on my family this year. Credit: iStock I love Christmas, even the parts that drive other people nuts: the panicked frenzy that descends as December 25 approaches, the endless rotation of jingle-bell jingles in shops, the corny movies, the total inescapability of the season. Even the sprawling shopping malls – anathema to my sensibilities 10 months of the year – transform into wonderlands of festive magic and possibility. My 11-year-old has the good sense to complain when the decorations appear in early October while I rejoice at the opportunity to stretch the season to its tautest limits of plausibility. I love Christmas so much, in fact, that I find it very difficult to enjoy. A family should be functional, if not thriving, for the festivity to register below surface level. Despite being too old to blame my mum, I blame my mum. Having endured a spartan, lonely upbringing herself, she went all out at Christmas for my brother and me. Every December, our lounge room was given over to a towering pine tree covered in delicate Polish glass baubles and fine German tinsel. She baked mince pies, strung the halls with garlands of cards, took us to view the Myer Christmas windows and for Santa photos at David Jones – going to great efforts to maintain the beautiful Santa lie (I was menstruating before I finally stopped believing). Every Christmas morning, I’d wake to an abundance of presents under the tree, wrapped with the care and expertise of a workshop elf. All this is to say, the bar was set high for me when I had my own children. When my daughters were little, I would borrow bags full of Christmas books from the library in late October, displaying them on every available surface, and inviting, or perhaps goading, my girls to acquaint themselves with the festive fantasies that I would never be able to fully realise for them. Because in trying to recreate the memories of my childhood, I often overlooked a few important facts. And to really enjoy Christmas as an adult, a few ducks need to be in a row. A family should be functional, if not thriving, for the festivity to register below surface-level. Bank accounts need to be robust, to prevent an eruption of irritable bowel syndrome every time your children mention their wish lists. And intimate relationships must be harmonious – nothing wilts the spirit more than a late-December frost in relations. These threads have rarely all come together at the same time for me. Life is a tightrope walk of expectation management, and it’s not a skill I would put on my CV. Every year, the same self-mandated Christmas rituals play out, and every year, they fall flat on their arse. Of course they do; I expect too much of them, and of the people participating. Visits to Christmas-light displays are punctuated by my yelps of “HOW MAGICAL IS THIS, GIRLS? CAN YOU FEEL THE MAGIC? ARE YOU ENJOYING THE MAGIC?” Any reaction less than extravagant wonder sends my spirits crashing. My insistence on a non-stop TV diet of Christmas movies is met with resistance, if not outright opprobrium. My youngest daughter is unable to brook any suggestion of onscreen sadness or tension. This rules out most Christmas films, in which there’s always an issue threatening to derail the festive joy. She is also allergic to pine needles. “Just keep your distance,” I advise, when the tree enters the house (during the second week of November), adopting the casual disregard for kids’ safety that characterised my 1980s childhood. But after the desultory experience of Christmas 2021, during which one relative doubled down on extreme right-wing conspiracies, political arguments dominated the lunchtime discourse (and not in the fun, lively way of my fantasy Bohemian family), and my youngest child finished the day with a 38.8-degree fever, I decided, while forking a midnight slice of fruit cake into my downturned mouth, that maybe this would be a good time to start adjusting my expectations. It’s a work in progress. I still have plans to inflict a fair amount of festive cheer on my family this year. But small gains have been made. I have accepted that a life lived messily 10 months of the year can’t suddenly be magicked into perfection come November 1. My 16-year-old will visit Melbourne’s iconic Ivanhoe Christmas lights display, but only if I buy her a case of Pepsi Max; she won’t enjoy the experience, but maybe she’ll look back on it fondly as an adult. Family members will very likely enter into a conversation over lunch about the “woke left” that will have me contemplating a return to immoderate drinking – but isn’t that actually the most authentic and universally understood experience of Christmas Day one can have? And there will be no backyard cricket after lunch, the kind that I have always observed in other people’s families with deep envy. But that’s OK. I’ve never really liked cricket, anyway. Get the best of Sunday Life magazine delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning. Sign up here for our free newsletter .However, some state workers failed to return to their jobs and a United Nations official said the country’s public sector had come “to a complete and abrupt halt”. Meanwhile, streams of refugees crossed back into Syria from neighbouring countries, hoping for a more peaceful future and looking for relatives who disappeared during Mr Assad’s brutal rule. There were already signs of the difficulties ahead for the rebel alliance now in control of much of the country. The alliance is led by a former senior al-Qaida militant, who severed ties with the extremist group years ago and has promised representative government and religious tolerance. The rebel command said they would not tell women how to dress. “It is strictly forbidden to interfere with women’s dress or impose any request related to their clothing or appearance, including requests for modesty,” the command said in a statement on social media. Nearly two days after rebels entered the capital, some key government services had shut down after state workers ignored calls to go back to their jobs, the UN official said, causing issues at airports and borders and slowing the flow of humanitarian aid. Rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, also met with Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Jalali for the first time. Mr Jalali stayed in Syria when Mr Assad fled and has sought to project normalcy since. “We are working so that the transitional period is quick and smooth,” he told Sky News Arabia TV on Monday, saying the security situation had already improved from the day before. At the court of Justice in Damascus, which was stormed by the rebels to free detainees, Judge Khitam Haddad, an aide to the justice minister in the outgoing government, said that judges were ready to resume work quickly. “We want to give everyone their rights,” Mr Haddad said outside the courthouse. “We want to build a new Syria and to keep the work, but with new methods.” But a UN official said some government services had been paralysed as worried state employees stayed at home. The public sector “has just come to a complete and abrupt halt,” said Adam Abdelmoula, UN resident and humanitarian co-ordinator for Syria, noting, for example, that an aid flight carrying urgently needed medical supplies had been put on hold after aviation employees abandoned their jobs. “This is a country that has had one government for 53 years and then suddenly all of those who have been demonised by the public media are now in charge in the nation’s capital,” Mr Abdelmoula told The Associated Press. “I think it will take a couple of days and a lot of assurance on the part of the armed groups for these people to return to work again.” In a video shared on a rebel messaging channel, Mr al-Sharaa said: “You will see there are skills” among the rebels. The Kremlin said Russia has granted political asylum to Mr Assad, a decision made by President Vladimir Putin. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on Mr Assad’s specific whereabouts and said Mr Putin did not plan to meet with him. Damascus was quiet Monday, with life slowly returning to normal, though most shops and public institutions were closed. In public squares, some people were still celebrating. Civilian traffic resumed, but there was no public transport. Long lines formed in front of bakeries and other food stores. There was little sign of any security presence though in some areas, small groups of armed men were stationed in the streets.jb casino 。

It’s that time of year when proposed budget numbers get floated for towns and school boards to consider, with details now being presented in workshops for the weeks ahead. That includes Londonderry, where the budget work is underway to study all things in the school district and where money can be best spent while striving to keep taxpayers and their wallets happy. Superintendent Dan Black presented his hundreds of pages outlining his fiscal 2026 budget proposal before the school board at a meeting on Nov. 26, an early look at some numbers and how money might be spent in the most fiscally responsible way possible. Black’s proposed $89,116,875 number is a responsible one, he said at the meeting. That number does not include any warrant articles that may appear on the ballot next March. How to bring full-day kindergarten to town remains a priority, officials said. In addition to kindergarten, it’s also a hope to convince voters to approve a plan that includes bringing the district’s school administrative offices to a new location so as not to have to continue to pay to lease space on Kitty Hawk Landing. Last year, a warrant article had asked voters to approve a $34.2 million project to expand Moose Hill, but failed to pass at the polls. Now updated plans for how to move forward will be proposed to voters at the polls next March, a more pared down project that could cost less. Black said the proposed numbers are less than last year, but still maintain the quality of education in Londonderry for its students. “It’s a very solid plan,” Black said at the meeting. The superintendent said he is optimistic about how voters will receive the updated Moose Hill full-day kindergarten and SAU office plan. Black said the budget numbers he put forward showed ways to find efficiency with personnel, shifting programs and staff and making sure all district goals remain intact. There have been “tough” decisions made, the superintendent added. In addition to the proposed operating budget, warrant articles could include several requests that appear every year including money to support buildings and grounds, technology, equipment, and money for vehicles/machinery. Black said he remained very hopeful voters will support the budget and the Moose Hill, full-day kindergarten plan along with a new SAU location project. “I’m planning for a positive vote,” Black said at a recent meeting. And if it didn’t pass, Black said that would be a conversation for next year’s budget process. School board officials along with administration and budget committee members will continue workshops in the weeks ahead prior to finalizing numbers by Jan. 7. Meetings to follow include a public hearing on the budget on Jan. 14; Feb. 7 is the annual Deliberative Session at Londonderry High School and voters head to the polls on March 11. ldnews@unionleader.comPHILADELPHIA , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of FS Credit Opportunities Corp. (the Fund) (NYSE: FSCO) announced the monthly distribution for December 2024 . The distribution of $0.06 per share will be paid on December 31, 2024 . Further information on the distribution is summarized in the charts below. The current annualized distribution rate equates to an annualized distribution yield 1 of 10.1% and 10.6%, respectively, based on the Fund's net asset value (NAV) and market price as of November 30, 2024 . The monthly distribution has been fully covered by the Fund's net investment income throughout 2024, and the Fund has generated an estimated total return on NAV of 12.75% and 33.1% on market price year-to-date through November 30, 2024 . The Fund has approximately $2.2 billion in assets under management and invests in event-driven credit, special situations, private capital solutions and other non-traditional credit opportunities. Month Ticker Fund Name Monthly Dividend December FSCO FS Credit Opportunities Corp. $0.06 The distribution will be made on the following schedule: Month Ex-Date Record Date Payable Date December December 23, 2024 December 23, 2024 December 31, 2024 The Fund pays regular monthly cash distributions to common shareholders at a level rate that may be adjusted from time to time. The amount of monthly distributions may be affected by numerous factors, including changes in portfolio and market conditions. Shareholders should not use the information provided here in preparing their tax returns. The Fund will send a Form 1099-DIV to shareholders for the calendar year that will tell them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Investors should consider, among other things, the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. Investors can find the Fund's most recent reports and other filings on the Securities and Exchange Commission's EDGAR Database or on the Fund's website ( https://fsinvestments.com/fs-credit-opportunities-corp/ ). About FS Investments FS Investments is a global alternative asset manager dedicated to delivering superior performance and innovative investment and capital solutions. The firm manages over $82 billion in assets for a wide range of clients, including institutional investors, financial professionals and individual investors. FS Investments provides access to a broad suite of alternative asset classes and strategies through its best-in-class investment teams and partners. With its diversified platform and flexible capital solutions, the firm is a valued partner to general partners, asset owners and portfolio companies. FS Investments is grounded in its high-performance culture and guided by its commitment to building value for its clients, investing in its colleagues and giving back to its communities. The firm has more than 500 employees across offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia and is headquartered in Philadelphia. Contact Information: Investor Relations Joe Montelione joseph.montelione@fsinvestments.com Media Sarah Hilferty media@fsinvestments.com Forward Looking Statements Statements included herein may constitute "forward-looking" statements as that term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements with regard to future events or the future performance or operations of the Fund. Words such as "intends," "will," "expects," and "may" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Certain factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the economy, geopolitical risks, risks associated with possible disruption to the Fund's operations or the economy generally due to hostilities, terrorism, natural disasters or pandemics such as COVID-19, future changes in laws or regulations and conditions in the Fund's operating area, unexpected costs, the price at which the Fund's shares of common stock may trade on the New York Stock Exchange and such other factors that are disclosed in the Fund's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation that any plans, estimates or expectations will be achieved. Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this communication. Except as required by federal securities laws, the Fund undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. 1 Annualized distribution yield reflects the current month's distribution per share annualized and divided by the estimated current month end net asset value (NAV) per share or market price per share; because annualized distribution yield is based on estimated current month end NAV, it is an estimate that is subject to change. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fs-credit-opportunities-corp-fsco-declares-distribution-for-december-2024-302324322.html SOURCE FS Investments

LONDON (AP) — West Ham forward Michail Antonio was taken to hospital after being involved in a road traffic incident on Saturday. West Ham added the 34-year-old player was in a stable condition. “Michail is conscious and communicating and is currently under close supervision at a central London hospital," the Premier League club said in a statement. “At this difficult time, we kindly ask everyone to respect the privacy of Michail and his family. “The club will make no further comment this evening, but will issue a further update in due course.” Unverified images of a heavily damaged Ferrari in the Essex area were shared on social media on Saturday. It was not known if it was the car involved in the accident. Antonio signed for West Ham in 2015 and has made more than 300 appearances. West Ham doesn't have a league game until Monday. ___ James Robson is at https://twitter.com/jamesalanrobson ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer The Associated Press

NoneZelenskyy warns Nigeria, other African countries against missiles from Russia

Reports: Bill Belichick interviews for North Carolina jobBSD Builders, Inc. Advanced Microgrid Solutions Receives California Seismic Certification for Uninterruptible Power Supply

Dubai has become a global hub for innovative fitness experiences, attracting individuals looking to improve their health and well-being. The city offers diverse options, but one trend continues to stand out— fitness boot camps. These programs have gained significant popularity due to their ability to combine intense training sessions with a supportive group environment. Participants often choose these camps to achieve better health, build teamwork skills, and stay motivated through challenging workouts. Whether you aim to lose weight, increase endurance, or feel stronger, boot camps provide a structured approach to fitness. They focus on delivering results through expert coaching, diverse exercise routines, and a strong sense of community. Fitness boot camps in Dubai cater to beginners and seasoned athletes, ensuring inclusivity for everyone seeking an active lifestyle. Dubai’s fitness boot camps in 2025 combine various workout styles with cutting-edge techniques. Participants can expect diverse sessions, including cardio drills, strength training, yoga practices, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These camps challenge individuals at every fitness level, whether they are just starting or looking to push their limits further. Innovation plays a significant role in the structure of these programs. Many camps incorporate technology-driven features, like real-time performance tracking and virtual coaching tools, to enhance training effectiveness. This approach helps participants stay engaged and measure progress consistently. Another noticeable trend is the integration of mindfulness into physical routines. Many programs now include elements like guided stretching, breathing exercises, and mental focus techniques to promote overall well-being alongside physical fitness. Group training at fitness boot camps in Dubai has gained popularity among those looking for fulfilling and effective fitness experiences. These programs foster motivation and teamwork among participants. A study published by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) reveals that boot camp workouts are one of the most powerful group exercise options, inspiring individuals to push their limits and achieve their fitness goals. Here’s how group training stands out: Group training in Dubai combines physical and emotional benefits, making it an excellent choice for those looking to stay motivated and achieve their goals effectively. The Circuit Factory is a standout choice for fitness enthusiasts looking to achieve results through dynamic, high-energy workouts. With its innovative approach, the boot camp offers high-intensity sessions, ensuring inclusivity and progress for everyone. Group sessions are a cornerstone of the program, fostering motivation and camaraderie among participants. The facility is equipped with modern training tools and staffed by expert trainers who provide guidance and support to help participants reach their goals effectively. Flexible membership plans make it accessible for Dubai residents and travelers, providing options that fit various schedules and commitments. The supportive community atmosphere sets The Circuit Factory apart, creating an environment where participants feel encouraged to challenge themselves. ReiseAthleten offers premium fitness boot camps in Dubai that combine high-quality training with a luxurious lifestyle. These programs provide personalized coaching and opportunities for relaxation. Participants can enjoy group activities focusing on wellness and building connections while staying on track with their fitness goals. The facilities are a standout feature, including state-of-the-art gyms, indulgent spa treatments, and gourmet meals to support health and recovery. This thoughtful combination ensures that participants achieve measurable results without compromising on comfort. ReiseAthleten offers a fitness experience that emphasizes physical growth and mental refreshment. This luxury boot camp delivers a unique way to make fitness both rewarding and enjoyable in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. Barry’s Bootcamp is recognized globally for its high-intensity workouts that combine cardio and strength training in a unique format. Each session takes place in the state-of-the-art Red Room, a high-energy environment designed to keep participants motivated and engaged. The workouts are structured to maximize calorie burn while building muscle tone, offering a balanced approach to fitness. The inclusive setup ensures everyone feels supported, whether you are a beginner or experienced. Barry’s Bootcamp also emphasizes post-workout recovery with its in-house nutrition bar, offering a selection of protein shakes and healthy snacks to replenish energy. This combination of expert programming, community-driven workouts, and recovery support makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to improve their fitness levels efficiently. F45 Training is a standout option for those seeking effective, functional workouts that deliver results in just 45 minutes. Known for its structured approach, F45 combines cardio, resistance, and hybrid sessions to keep participants engaged and challenged. One of the unique features of F45 is its team-based exercises, which foster a strong sense of accountability and motivation among participants. Advanced technology enhances the experience by tracking real-time performance during workouts. Participants can monitor their progress and adjust their efforts for optimal results. With multiple locations across Dubai, F45 makes it convenient for residents and visitors to stay committed to their fitness goals. As part of the growing trend of fitness boot camps in Dubai, F45 offers a dynamic, inclusive, and accessible way to achieve better health and long-term fitness success. Ignite Fitness & Wellness offers outdoor boot camps in some of Dubai’s most picturesque locations, combining exercise with a refreshing change of scenery. These camps meet various fitness goals, including weight loss, building endurance, or improving overall strength. With customized programs that cater to different levels, Ignite ensures inclusivity for all participants. Sessions include engaging activities like yoga, circuit training, and team challenges, keeping workouts exciting. The flexible schedule accommodates beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts, making it easy for anyone to join. Choosing the right boot camp in Dubai requires careful consideration of your fitness goals and personal preferences. Whether you aim to improve strength, build endurance, or join a structured weight loss program , begin by identifying what you want to achieve. Besides helping with shedding extra pounds, programs like these focus on long-term health improvements through balanced exercise routines and nutritional guidance. Location and budget should align with your lifestyle, as convenience and affordability will help you stay consistent. Also, flexible schedules are another factor you should keep in mind, especially if you have a busy routine. Reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the quality of a boot camp. Look for feedback on certified trainers and the overall supportiveness of the environment. Trial classes are a practical way to assess if a program meets your expectations. Technology has significantly enhanced the effectiveness of fitness boot camps, offering custom solutions for participants with different goals. Tools like fitness trackers and apps have become common, providing real-time performance tracking that helps users stay on target and measure progress. Virtual coaching platforms have also made it easier to maintain consistency, even outside scheduled sessions. AI-driven personalization is another innovation that transforms these programs. By analyzing individual performance data, these tools create customized workout and recovery plans to maximize results. This personalized approach ensures participants achieve their goals while reducing the risk of injury or burnout. Fitness Boot Camps in Dubai cater to diverse needs, preferences, and fitness levels. Whether you’re seeking high-intensity training, functional fitness, outdoor adventures, or a luxury experience, there’s no shortage of options to help you achieve your fitness goals. With the added benefits of group training, cutting-edge technology, and personalized attention, Dubai’s boot camps provide an excellent environment for those looking to push their limits while having fun. Whether your goal is to lose weight, improve endurance, or get in the best shape of your life, these boot camps offer everything you need to succeed. Start your fitness journey today and choose the boot camp that aligns with your goals. Also published on Medium .