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Some dividends are more durable than others. That's due to a combination of the underlying company's financial strength and the resiliency of its business model. Companies with those characteristics make excellent ones to buy and hold for a lifetime of stable and growing dividend income. Many real estate investment trusts ( REITs ) have those durable traits, including Agree Realty ( ADC -0.51% ) , Stag Industrial ( STAG -0.39% ) , and Sun Communities ( SUI -1.32% ) . That makes them ideal for those seeking enduring income that should stand the test of time. A strong foundation Agree Realty has been the model of consistency over the years. The retail REIT has grown its dividend at a solid 5.7% annual rate during the past 10 years. Its dividend currently yields over 4%, putting it several times higher than the S&P 500 's ( ^GSPC 0.25% ) 1.2% yield. The company has built a very strong foundation. It focuses on owning freestanding properties leased to high-quality retailers (67.5% have investment-grade credit) in resilient sectors (e.g., grocery, home improvement, tire and auto service, and convenience stores). It utilizes long-term net leases or ground leases that provide predictable rental income because tenants cover all operating costs (including routine maintenance, building insurance, and real estate taxes). Agree Realty also has a very strong financial foundation. It has an excellent investment-grade credit rating backed by a low leverage ratio . That gives it the financial flexibility to continue acquiring income-generating retail properties. It also has a very conservative dividend payout ratio for a REIT, at 73% of its adjusted funds from operations ( FFO ). The company has a long growth runway ahead. It works directly with many high-quality retailers that still own over 168,000 locations. That should provide the REIT with a steady stream of sale-leaseback transactions in the coming years. Robust demand for this real estate Stag Industrial has also been very consistent over the years. The industrial REIT has increased its dividend every year since it came public in 2011. It also offers a dividend yield above 4%. The company owns a diversified portfolio of industrial real estate , like warehouses and light manufacturing facilities. It leases these properties to high-quality tenants under long-term agreements that escalate rents each year (2.8% on average in 2024). Demand for industrial properties is robust due to the growing adoption of e-commerce and onshoring of manufacturing. Because of that, it's capturing much higher rental rates once legacy leases expire (30% rental increases on new and renewal leases for the same space in 2024). Stag Industrial also has a low-leverage balance sheet and a conservative dividend payout ratio (73%). It's on track to generate about $100 million in post-dividend free cash flow this year, giving it additional cash to invest in acquiring more income-producing industrial properties. The company expects to acquire $500 million to $700 million of properties this year and has $4.2 billion of potential investments in its deal pipeline. Durable demand Sun Communities has never cut or suspended its dividend in its three decades as a public company. Meanwhile, the REIT has routinely increased its payments over the years, including the last eight in a row. The unique residential REIT currently yields 3%. The REIT focuses on properties off the beaten path from other real estate investors, like manufactured home communities, RV resorts, marinas, and holiday parks in the U.K. These properties benefit from very durable demand. For example, it's very expensive to relocate a manufactured home, which keeps residents in place. Meanwhile, demand for outside experiences is growing, which is driving demand for space at its RV parks and marinas. As a result of these factors, Sun Communities has delivered 20 straight years of rising same-store net operating income ( NOI ). Overall, NOI has increased at a 5.2% compound annual rate since 2000, faster than the REIT sector average (3.2%). Sun Communities complements its solid rental growth rate by making acquisitions and investing in expanding existing locations. For example, it has added marinas and U.K. holiday parks to its portfolio over the past several years. Meanwhile, when opportunities arise, it will acquire additional manufactured home communities and RV parks. The REIT has ample financial flexibility to continue expanding its portfolio thanks to its solid investment-grade balance sheet. Three rock-solid dividend stocks Agree Realty, Stag Industrial, and Sun Communities have long records of paying durable and growing dividends. The REITs back their payouts with resilient real estate portfolios and strong balance sheets. Because of that, they should be able to continue providing their investors with steadily rising income in the decades ahead.

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Jaylon Johnson isn't interested in bright spots with the Bears' skid at 5 gamesPreview: Huddersfield Town vs. Stockport County - prediction, team news, lineups

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Basketball season is here. Subscribe to the DRC for $1 a month over the next six months to follow all that transpires with North Texas and area high schools. North Texas saw its losing streak hit five last week, when the Mean Green fell to East Carolina. UNT got off to a great start before collapsing in the second half of a 40-28 loss. The Mean Green gave up 31 straight points after taking a 21-0 lead. The loss dropped UNT to 5-6 on the season heading into a game at Temple on Saturday. It shapes up to be one of the more consequential games in recent program history. The Mean Green are 5-6 and have fallen toward the bottom of the American Athletic Conference standings at 2-5. A win over the Owls would make UNT bowl eligible for the first time in two seasons under Eric Morris. A loss would send the Mean Green into the offseason on their longest slide since losing six straight in 2021. Before we turn our attention to UNT’s showdown with Temple, it’s time for What We Learned, our weekly look back at the Mean Green’s last game and where the team stands. No quit in this team! 🏴‍☠️ pic.twitter.com/5DldLdl0ig The Mean Green were hoping a switch at defensive coordinator would spark a turnaround in the final two weeks of the regular season. UNT coach Eric Morris fired Matt Caponi and elevated linebackers coach Brian Odom to replace him on an interim basis following a loss to UTSA on Nov. 15. The Mean Green had allowed at least 45 points three times in what was a four-game losing streak at that point. UNT showed some signs of improvement under Odom. “Our guys had a spark, were energized and inspired,” Morris said. That energy didn’t make a big enough difference when it came to the bottom line. UNT played well early and allowed just seven points in the first half. ECU broke free with 33 points after the break. UNT has struggled to stop the run all year, an issue Morris has pointed to repeatedly. The Mean Green were allowing 201.4 yards per game heading into the day. UNT didn’t fare any better against ECU and allowed 255 yards and three touchdowns. The Pirates scored the second touchdown during their 31-0 run when UNT seemingly had Rahjai Harris stopped near the line of scrimmage. He wiggled free from a scrum with the help of offensive lineman Jimarion McCrimon and raced 39 yards to the end zone. “We were amped up early,” defensive lineman Terrell Dawkins said. “We couldn’t finish it out.” If there is anything Chandler Morris has shown during his winding college career, it’s that he’s tough both physically and mentally. Those traits helped him during his journey from Oklahoma to TCU and finally UNT. He’s dealt with a series of injuries while adjusting to new teams and coaches along the way. The former Highland Park standout displayed those abilities again after a tough couple of weeks. Morris threw four interceptions and just one touchdown over the course of two games heading into UNT’s game at ECU. He bounced back in a big way while throwing for 266 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions against the Pirates. Morris also rushed for 39 yards. Morris’ stat line would have been even better had it not been for a few drops by UNT’s receivers. “Chandler played well enough and made some nice throws,” Eric Morris said. “We had some drive-killers where we didn’t catch the football.” No team in the country has attempted to convert on fourth down more than UNT, which has gone for it 41 times. The Mean Green have benefited plenty of times from the approach. UNT converted all four of its attempts in a win over Wyoming early in the season. Those conversions helped extend three scoring drives that helped the Mean Green roll to a 44-17 win. UNT has converted just one of its last nine attempts over the course of its last two games and didn’t cash in on any of its four tries against ECU. The Mean Green went for it on fourth-and-1 from their own 46 in the third quarter. Makenzie McGill II was stuffed for a 1-yard loss. ECU cashed in with a field goal. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

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This image provided by FinaMill shows the FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder Set. The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. (FinaMill via AP) This image provided by QelviQ shows a wine bottle chiller. For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses “smart” technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. (QelviQ via AP) This image provided by FUJIFILM North America Corporation and FUJIFILM Corporation Tokyo shows a smartphone printer. Fujifilm Instax’s Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the printer with film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. (FUJIFILM North America Corporation and FUJIFILM Corporation Tokyo via AP) This image provided by FeatherSnap shows a female cardinal bird perched on a FeatherSnap Wi-Fi Solar Powered Camera Smart Bird Feeder. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. (FeatherSnap via AP) This image provided by Nama shows the M1 plant-based milk maker. If you’ve got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid unnecessary ingredients like sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. (Nama via AP) This image provided by Pull Start Fire shows the matchless fire igniter in use. Made of 89% recycled materials, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling.(Pull Start Fire via AP) This image provided by Uncommon Goods shows a 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set. Uncommon Good’s 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. (Uncommon Goods via AP) This image provided by easyplant shows a Marxii Calathea plant in a small, beige, self-watering pot. The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. (easyplant via AP) This image provided by Souper Cubes shows No Mess Utensils held upright on pot edges. The No Mess Utensil lives up to its name. The utensils, a serving spoon and a ladle, have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot. (Ashley Cuoco via AP) This image provided by FinaMill shows the FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder Set. The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. (FinaMill via AP) By JESSICA DAMIANO Finding the perfect gift can be daunting. The only way to truly ensure you get it right would be to ask the recipient what they want, but that wouldn’t be much fun for either of you. Luckily, there’s another tactic to help you earn a “gift whisperer” reputation: seeking out unique, practical, game-changing gifts that will truly surprise and delight. But that’s about as easy as it sounds, which is to say it’s not easy at all. So, we’ve done the legwork for you. Start making your list with this compilation of some of the most innovative, functional and fun gifts of 2024. There’s something for every budget. Bear with me: The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. Available in three colors (Sangria Red, Midnight Black and Soft Cream), the rechargeable-battery unit grinds with a light touch rather than hand-tiring twists. That’s easier for everyone and especially helpful for those experiencing hand or wrist issues such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. And it’s fun to use. The set includes a stackable storage tray and four pods that can be easily swapped as needed: The GT microplane grater for hard spices, nuts and chocolate; the MAX for large spices and dried herbs; the ProPlus for smaller and oily spices; and the Pepper Pod for, well, pepper. $110. Campers and backyard firepit lovers who have experienced the heartbreak of wet wood will appreciate having a three-pack of Pull Start Fire on hand. Made of 89% recycled materials, including sanding dust, wax and flint, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling. Just loop the attached green string around a log, incorporate it into a wood stack, and pull the attached red string to ignite. Each windproof, rainproof block burns for 30 minutes. $29.99. The No Mess Utensil Set from Souper Cubes , a company known for its portioned, silicone freezer trays, lives up to its name. The utensils — a serving spoon and a ladle — have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot, keeping them upright so they won’t slip in. The design also eliminates the need for a spoon rest or, worse, placing dirty utensils on the kitchen counter or stovetop between stirs. A silicone coating in a choice of Aqua, Charcoal, Cranberry or Blueberry keeps handles cool to the touch. $24.99. The FeatherSnap Wi-Fi smart bird feeder could turn anyone into an avid birdwatcher. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. An optional premium subscription ($59.99 annually or $6.99 monthly) includes unlimited photo and video storage, AI identification with species-specific details, and the opportunity to earn badges for logging new visitors. Turn on notifications to get alerts sent to your phone whenever there’s activity at the feeder. $179.99. Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the 4.9-by-3.5-by-1.3-inch printer with Instax Mini instant film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. If you want to get fancy, you can adjust brightness, contrast and saturation, or apply filters, including 3D augmented-reality effects, via the free Instax Mini Link app. It can also make collages of up to six images, or animate photos to share on social media. Available in Rose Pink, Clay White and Sage Green. $99.95. The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. Select a pot color, size and plant (or get recommendations based on sunlight requirements, pet friendliness and other attributes) and fill the self-watering container’s built-in reservoir roughly once a month. Moisture will permeate the soil from the bottom as needed, eliminating the often-fatal consequences of over- or under-watering. It’s also a literal lifesaver come vacation time. $49-$259. Related Articles Things To Do | US airports with worst weather delays during holiday season Things To Do | The right book can inspire the young readers in your life, from picture books to YA novels Things To Do | Holiday gift ideas for the movie lover, from bios and books to a status tote Things To Do | ‘Gladiator II’ review: Are you not moderately entertained? Things To Do | Beer pairings for your holiday feasts If you’ve got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. The Nama M1 appliance both blends and strains ingredients, converting nuts, seeds, grains or oats into velvety-smooth milk in just one minute, with zero grit. And for zero waste, the pasty leftover pulp can be used in other recipes for added nutrients. The device also makes infused oils, flavored waters and soups. And, importantly, cleanup is easy. Available in white and black. $400. For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses “smart” technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. Unlike traditional wine refrigerators, this device doesn’t take up any floor space. It also doesn’t chill wine to just one or two temperatures based on its color. Instead — paired with the free QelviQ app — the tabletop chiller relies on a database of more than 350,000 wines to bring a bottle to its specific recommended serving temperature in as little as 20 minutes. It also suggests food-wine and wine-food pairings. Plus, the appliance serves as a great icebreaker to inspire dinnertime conversation. Available in Exciting Red, Dashing Black and Dreamy White. $495. Grilling food after dark — and ascertaining its doneness — can prove challenging without outdoor lighting, and it’s nearly impossible to cook while holding a flashlight. But as is often the case, the simplest of solutions can make the biggest of impacts: Uncommon Good’s 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. After use, the lights can be removed and the utensils run through the dishwasher. $40.

Police probe launched after tractor driver sent waves of Storm Bert floodwaters smashing through shop windows while speeding through Worcestershire town By OLIVIA ALLHUSEN Published: 21:00, 25 November 2024 | Updated: 21:30, 25 November 2024 e-mail 37 View comments A police probe has been launched after a tractor triggered waves of Storm Bert floodwaters to hit local businesses, smash windows and knock doors open. The large green vehicle can be seen speeding down a flooded street in Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire, on Sunday as onlookers gasp in shock. West Mercia Police are now investigating after they were made aware that videos of the incident was circulating on social media. The footage shows the tractor ploughing down the flooded road with the water nearly covering its wheels. Behind the camera alarmed bystanders can be heard saying: 'Oh my good God,' and: 'That's caused so much damage, all the shops up the high street'. The vehicle caused the water on the already-flooded properties to go into shops and homes on either side of the street. Many business owners said waves caused by the tractor smashed windows of premises which were already impacted by flooding and worsened flooding in some areas protected by sandbags. A police probe has been launched after a tractor triggered waves of Storm Bert floodwaters to hit local businesses, smash windows and knock doors open The green vehicle can be seen speeding down the flooded street in Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire on Sunday as onlookers gasp in shock The footage shows the vehicle ploughing down the flooded road with the water nearly covering its wheels In a statement West Mercia Police said: 'We're actively investigating the incident and officers are in Tenbury Wells this morning speaking to people whose businesses and properties may have been affected, as well as reviewing additional video footage. 'No arrests have been made at this time. We will provide further updates when we are able to.' Paul Birkin, the owner of the Crow pub, told The Guardian : 'It was bad, the water had come up, but nothing would have happened to the pub if it wasn't for the tractor. 'There wasn't a drop of water in here until he drove through. 'This business would have probably got away with it but he came down, for whatever reason, at that speed.' The locked front doors of the pub were pushed open and damaged, along with the windows next to it, with the wave of water moving sandbags across the room. The main street through Tenbury Wells was submerged under several feet of water after the Kyre Brook burst its banks. The co-owners of the beauty business Eternally Ageless Aesthetics, Stephanie Hopkins and Nick Harrold, had to come to terms with the damage caused by the wave. The tractor caused the water on the already-flooded properties to go into shops and homes on either side of the street West Mercia Police are now investigating after they were made aware that videos of the incident was circulating on social media Harrold said the tractor was to blame for the 'total devastation' saying: 'That's certainly not flood damage is it, that's the impact of the tidal wave.' The pair had pumped £15,000 of their own money into the business to get it set up 18 months ago but now they say this could be the end of the road. Harrold explained how they couldn't afford to pay for insurance and Hopkins added that they don't have the funds to spend on repairs. It comes as major clean up operations are underway across the UK after Storm Bert wreaked havoc across the nation at the weekend. Hundreds of flood warnings remained in place this morning after the killer storm brought 82mph winds, snow and a month's worth of rain, leaving at least five people dead in its wake. More than 400 flood alerts or warnings were issued across Britain today - including 206 alerts and 157 warnings in England; and 29 alerts and ten warnings in Wales. There were three severe flood warnings, while Scotland had four warnings in place. Strong winds, waves and rain brought by Storm Bert at Newhaven in West Sussex yesterday Landslides in Cwmtillery, south Wales, have left roads blocked with mud and debris A swollen river in Pontypridd rushes through the town amid heavy rain caused by Storm Bert on Sunday The storm initially brought blizzards when it barrelled in over the weekend - but flurries were quickly swept away as up to three quarters of a month's rain turned rivers into torrents, flooding homes, causing transport disruption and power cuts. On Monday severe travel disruption and high risk flooding remain, with Northamptonshire Police warning against 'all unnecessary travel'. Bert has claimed five lives - the latest being a man in his 80s who died after his car entered water at a ford on Cockhill Lane in Foulridge, Lancashire, on Saturday. And rescuers yesterday found the body of a pensioner reported missing after going to walk his dog near the swollen River Conwy in North Wales, 24 hours earlier. Police divers and mountain rescue volunteers had scoured the banks of the river near Trefriw to search for Brian Perry, 75, before making the tragic discovery. He was visiting the area and his wife raised the alarm after he failed to return from the walk. There were three deaths on the roads on Saturday - including Mohammed Wahid, 34, whose car hit a wall in the heavy snow in Shipley, West Yorkshire, just before 1pm. A man in his 60s died when his Mercedes was hit by a tree on the A34 at Winnall, Hampshire. And a man in his 40s died on the A45 near Flore, Northamptonshire. Share or comment on this article: Police probe launched after tractor driver sent waves of Storm Bert floodwaters smashing through shop windows while speeding through Worcestershire town e-mail Add commentWhich board games are best? Even with technology taking over much of our day-to-day lives, board games still offer quality entertainment that can’t be beaten. Of course, the popular board games of today are a far cry from the games your parents grew up playing. Board games are perfect for encouraging your family to work together or for bringing your group of friends around the table for an evening. If you’d like to start up a weekly game night, let this helpful list of the most popular board games be your guide. Utter Nonsense Ages 8+ This game will have every player rolling in stitches with each ridiculous phrase that’s uttered. Combine crazy accents and hilarious phrases to impress the Nonsense Judge and win the round. The player with the highest number of wins ultimately wins the game, but the true fun of this card game is listening to your fellow players trying to say some of the most entertaining phrases of all time. This game is perfect for game nights or parties. Speak Out Ages 8+ This hilarious game is perfect if you have teenagers or are hosting a party with all adults. To play, you insert a mouthpiece that alters the sound of your speech, making every word sound silly. Set the timer and read one of the phrases on the cards and try to help your teammate guess what you’re saying. Speak Out easily provides hours of fun that even grandparents will love. Escape Room in a Box Ages 13+ What’s the next best thing to trying to break out of a room? Escape Room in a Box, of course. This thrilling, immersive game involves solving 2D and 3D puzzles in order to prevent a mad scientist from turning you and your friends or family into werewolves. Work together to escape your fate and use Amazon Alexa to enhance the experience. Codenames Ages 14+ This fun strategy game is perfect for anyone with teenagers. Form two teams and select a spymaster on each team. Using clues, spymasters try to help their teammates find all 25 of the agents they’re in contact with, hopefully without selecting the other team’s agents or running into the deadly assassin. This innovative game offers a challenging and rewarding time working together. ​​​​​​​Harry Potter Clue Ages 9+ Excite your kids on game night with this modern twist on a classic. Play as six recognizable Hogwarts characters — Harry, Hermione, Ron, Luna, Ginny or Neville — to solve the mystery behind a fellow student’s disappearance. It’s up to you to figure out who attacked the student, what bewitching spell they used and where it occurred. Watch out for the Dark Mark, moving staircases and secret passages as you travel along in this magical family game. ​​​​​​​Pandemic Ages 8+ If you’ve ever wanted to save humanity from a deadly outbreak, you’ll love spending an hour playing Pandemic. You and your teammates must fight to contain four deadly diseases threatening the human race. Players must learn to work with their teammates to control outbreak hotspots and treat diseases. Win the game by curing all diseases without wiping out humanity first. ​​​​​​​ Catan Ages 10+ This tactical 60-minute game will push your imagination to its limits as you embark on a journey across Catan. Acquire crucial resources as you travel, build roads, buildings, and cities, and be wary of the ruthless robber and other players halting you on your own road. Through careful trading and clever decisions, you can lead your travelers to victory in this role-playing game of limitless possibilities. Play again and again. Every game is different. Ticket to Ride Ages 8+ Train lovers will enjoy this innovative board game which has won numerous awards. This cross-country train adventure game mimics the concept of traveling around the world in 80 days. Collect train cars and claim railways across the country. Players earn the most points by establishing long train routes and connecting distant cities. Each game takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes to complete, and every adventure is different. ​​​​​​​5 Second Rule Ages 10+ This quick-paced game gives each player five seconds to name items on a certain topic. Although the topics are objectively easy —“Name 3 Mountains,” “Name 3 Types of Hats” or “Name 3 Super Heroes,” the pressure of the time crunch is likely to put you on edge. Race the clock and remain composed to win this game. You can even make up your own topics if you prefer. Half the fun is just hearing what other people blurt out, whether it’s relevant to the topic or not. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

WE all want to try the viral drinks we see on social media, but it can be a bit of an effort to go to the shops and pick up all the ingredients. Luckily, Scots can get the best viral drinks dropped off right at their door thanks to a new delivery service. 10 Zoom Drinks Delivery brings all the viral drinks we see on TikTok straight to you Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 I tried four of the viral drink boxes - including the Tequila Spritz cocktail Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 The boxes were brilliant and I felt like a top-class bartender Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD Zoom Drinks Delivery is now bringing all the weird and wonderful viral concoctions we see on TikTok straight to you so that you don't have the hassle of having to locate it all yourself. It is the first company in the UK to open a trending drinks aisle that lets customers purchase everything they need to make this month’s hottest drink at the click of a button. And I was lucky enough to have been offered the chance to try out the new service in the run-up to the festive period. Zoom has now set up shop in Glasgow and Paisley and users can choose from a range of 800 alcoholic and non-alcoholic products to have delivered. READ MORE FABULOUS PRIMANIA Shoppers go wild for Primark's brand new stocking fillers at as little as £1 TRI THIS? I’ve lived in a tricycle for two years after giving up my apartment But I tried four drinks that are dominating TikTok just now - the Tequila Spritz, Blueberry Matcha, Jalapeño Rosé and Fluffy Coke. The service is perfect for Christmas parties and nights in the house , and for that reason, I invited my family over to try all the drinks with me. All of the drinks came beautifully wrapped in large white boxes with the firm's branding on the front, and as soon as I saw them I couldn't wait to dive in. The first one I had a go at making was the Tequila Spritz, and the box had all the ingredients I needed to make it, including tequila, lemon juice, sugar syrup and sparkling rose wine . Most read in Fabulous FOOD FOR THOUGHT People are only just realising they’ve been making beans on toast wrong MYSTIC MEG Single? You can make not just the first move, but all of them – and feel great BOY BYE My date's secret came out after I shunned his cash-for-sex offer, now I'm boysober SPARKLE SEASON Fashion fans are gushing over the new Primark partywear range I felt like a professional cocktail maker - it came with fool-proof instructions that made the whole process super easy and all the drinks were of the highest quality. By the time I had finished, the cocktail looked as though it was made in a professional bar and tasted just as good. I tried Ryanair's new £8 cocktails It was a huge hit with the family, with my dad and cousin Sarahjane also becoming a huge fan of the drink. Next on the agenda was the Fluffy Coke - this involves coating the inside of a glass with marshmallow fluff before pouring a can of Coke into it. The drink has racked up over 4.1 million views on TikTok, with thousands of people looking to replicate the delicious sweet treat. 10 I also tried making the viral Blueberry Matcha Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 The Fluffy Coke was a huge hit with my brother-in-law Darrel Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 All the ingredients were beautifully packaged in the boxes Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 The drinks looked incredible after following the instructions Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD This was actually great fun to put together - and would be great for families with kids looking for an entertaining activity to do together. It was a huge hit with those of us who have a sweet tooth and my brother-in-law Darrel definitely enjoyed it. In the third box was everything we needed to make a Blueberry Matcha, which is arguably one of the most viral drinks on social media at the moment. It has soared in popularity this year and is well-loved because it combines the sweet flavours of blueberries with the health benefits and the energy boost of matcha. Inside the box were all the ingredients I needed to make it - matcha powder and blueberry syrup, and then all we had to add was some milk and boiling water . This one was a little bit fidgety to pull together but the results were well worth the effort. And my gran, aunt and Sarahjane loved the finished product, which looked as though it was professionally made. The final box had rose wine and jalapenos to create the viral Jalapeño Rosé drink. 'WE'RE HUGELY EXCITIED' ZOOM Drinks Delivery currently offers over 800 different drinks products to Glasgow and Paisley postcodes. The trending aisle features a host of viral recipes that have blown up on social media in recent months. Every ingredient will be available as part of a bundle on the app or website, and hand-delivered by Zoom’s fleet of vans. As well as a huge selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, the delivery service is also one of the first places in Scotland to serve up the in-demand Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s cans of Gin and Juice. Lee Grant, managing director at Zoom Drinks Delivery said: “We’re hugely excited to be back in Scotland and what better way to launch than offering easy to make bundles of some of the most popular drinks in the world. “From fusion cocktails, unusual combinations or wacky recipes, drinks go viral on social media every week as people share their latest concoctions which everyone is curious to try. "Staying on trend is hard, particularly when the ingredients are hard to find, so we've put together these helpful packs to make it even easier. “Sitting alongside a huge choice of wine, beer, soft drinks and spirits, Zoom has one of the biggest selections of drinks in Scotland and we’re continually looking for the next hottest trend.” The delivery service, which recently moved to Scotland after growing a huge customer base in Cyprus, where it regularly sells IRN-BRU to residents of the island, doesn’t add a service fee or delivery charge to orders and uses its own fleet of distinctive orange vans to cover Glasgow and Paisley. The company is also throwing in a few surprises for drinkers, adding a mixologist to a select few orders, who can help anyone master the art of creating TikTok cocktails from the comfort of their home. For more information visit www.zoomdrinksdelivery.com or download the app from the Apple store or Google Play. Not everyone was keen on the spicy rose wine, but the wine itself was lovely without the chilli pepper added. All of the drinks were incredible and I was surprised at how high a quality all of the ingredients were. The service was super quick and all of the drinks were beautifully presented - and the fact that it was delivered to the door makes it perfect for gatherings, parties, or celebrations in the house. Read more on the Scottish Sun THE FAB THREE I'm A Celeb's finalists REVEALED as last star evicted ahead of closing show AISLE BE THERE Lidl's cheeky Coca-Cola Christmas truck tour adds two more Scots spots Whether it's a party in the house, a home hen night or you just want to show off your incredible cocktail-making skills, Zoom has everything you need to create a fun night. And with Christmas fast approaching, this service could have you sorted for any night leading up to the big day - or even the big day itself. 10 The Fluffy Coke was a huge hit Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 My cousin Sarahjane and my gran loved the Blueberry Matcha Credit: PAIGE BERESFORD 10 My aunt also loved the healthy drink Credit: PAIGE BERESFORDNoneNone

SCBA reposes trust in constitutional bench Rauf Atta says they will not allow anyone to undermine integrity and disturb working of constitutional bench ISLAMABAD: President Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta on Monday expressed full confidence in the formation of the constitutional bench and will not allow anyone to undermine the integrity and disturb the working of the constitutional bench for petty political whims. Rebutting Senator Hamid Khan press conference, Atta said that being the apex representative body of the entire legal fraternity, the SCBA had already approved the amendment passed by Parliament. He said that the recommendations of the legal fraternity have been fully enforced in the amendments and reiterated their full confidence in the constitution of a (the bench) and shall not allow anyone to undermine the integrity and disturb the working of the constitutional bench for petty political whims. He said that Senator Hamid Khan has held the press conference that aligned with a specific political stance, adding that his averments do not reflect the legal fraternity position. “He went on to unduly criticize the legitimacy of the constitutionally passed 26th constitutional amendment (the amendment) by the democratically elected parliament and the formulation of the constitutional bench (the bench) and has further announced the 30th of November 2024 as a date to start so-called lawyers agitation against the amendment”, Rauf Atta said. The SCBA president further said that authority to make a call for any lawyers strike/protest, or movement solely rests with the elected representatives of the legal fraternity, not with any unelected person, let alone any politically aligned personality such as Senator Hamid Khan, ASC. “Such calls are only meant to create division with the legal fraternity, which is highly disgraceful and I want to assert that this Association cannot allow anyone to promote political agendas using the shoulders of legal fraternity”, he added. He further said that the bench is working promptly, and hoped that it will contribute to reducing the substantial backlog of constitutional cases and will increase the efficiency of the Supreme Court. He said that aggrieved from the formation of the bench are those who do not want to see the efficient Supreme Court contributing speedy and expeditious dispensation of justice.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indianapolis Colts defense started this season struggling. It couldn't stop the run, couldn't keep teams out of the end zone, couldn't get off the field. Now the script has flipped. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley's group is playing stouter, holding teams — even the high-scoring Detroit Lions — largely in check long enough to give Indy a chance to win, and it's the Colts offense that has struggled. “They are playing their tails off. You don’t want them on the field a bunch and as an offense you want to be able to play complementary football,” running back Jonathan Taylor said after Sunday's 24-6 loss. “I would say specifically on offense, it sucks when you can’t help your defense out when they are fighting their tails off all game.” Indy's defense held up its end of the bargain by limiting the Lions (10-1) to 14 first-half points and allowing just 24, matching Detroit's lowest output since Week 3. The problem: Even when the Colts (5-7) did get Detroit off the field, they couldn't sustain drives or score touchdowns. Again. Anthony Richardson provided the bulk of the ground game by rushing 10 times for 61 yards, mostly early. Taylor managed just 35 yards on 11 carries and a season-high 10 penalties constantly forced the Colts to dig out from deep deficits. Part of that was by design. “We knew Jonathan Taylor was going to be the guy we needed to shut down,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said. “We did that. The quarterback runs. It got us on a couple but overall, we did what we needed to do, and we kept them out of that game." Part of it could be because of an injury-battered offensive line that has started three rookies each of the past two weeks and finished the previous game with the same three rookies. Whatever the fix, Indy needs a good solution. There is good news for Indy is that its schedule now gets substantially more manageable. After losing four of five, all to teams in playoff position and three to division leaders, Indy faces only one team with a winning record in its final five games. The most recent time the Colts played a team with a losing mark, Richardson rallied them past the New York Jets 28-27. But Colts coach Shane Steichen knows that's not the answer. The Colts must get this offense righted now. “We’ve got to get that figured out. We’ve got to get him going on the ground,” Steichen said when asked about Taylor, who has 92 yards on his past 35 carries. “We’ll look at the offensive line. We’ll look at everything." Pass rush. Pro Bowl DT DeForest Buckner's presence certainly has been felt since he returned from a sprained ankle Oct. 27. In those past five games, the Colts have had 14 sacks, including three of Jared Goff on Sunday. Penalties. The Colts have had one of the cleanest operations in the league most of this season. Sunday was an anomaly, but one that can't merely be written off. WR Michael Pittman Jr. The five-year veteran is one of the league's toughest guys, but playing through a back injury appeared to take its toll on Pittman's productivity. Since sitting out in Week 10, Pittman has 11 receptions for 142 yards including six for 96 yards, his second-highest total of the season, Sunday. Tight ends. Each week the Colts want their tight ends to make an impact. And each week, they seem to fail. It happened again Sunday when Drew Ogletree dropped a TD pass that would have given Indy a 10-7 lead. Instead, Indy settled for a field goal and a 7-6 deficit. Through 12 games, Indy's tight ends have a total of 26 catches, 299 yards and two TDs. That's just not good enough in a league where versatile, productive tight ends increasingly signal success. Pittman and WR Josh Downs both returned to the game after leaving briefly with shoulder injuries. WR Ashton Dulin did not return after hurting his foot in the second half. But the bigger questions come on the offensive line. LT Bernhard Raimann (knee) was inactive Sunday, and rookie center Tanor Bortolini entered the concussion protocol Monday. Bortolini was one of three rookie starters the past two weeks, replacing Pro Bowler Ryan Kelly who is on injured reserve. 55.88 — Indy has scored touchdowns on 55.88% of its red zone trips this season. While it puts it near the middle of the NFL, it's cost the Colts multiple wins. Richardson needs to rebound from this latest 11 of 28 performance and show he can lead the Colts to victories week after week. He'll get plenty of chances over the season's final month, starting with next week's game at the New England Patriots. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl