No Rain Expected on Christmas Day

Dec 23 2023

According to the Meteorological Office, the weather Santa has to work in is a mix of clouds and dry spells.

It could be clustered as a Christmas miracle for last-minute shoppers hoping to dodge the dreaded raindrops. But hold onto your Santa hats because the wind plans to crash the party with a slightly strong to strong entrance, stealing the show from Saturday right through Christmas Day.

Now, let’s talk temperatures – forget about a white Christmas; we’re looking at a warm and toasty affair. The highest temperature is set at a maximum of 17°C, making our chilly counterparts elsewhere green with envy. But before you start dreaming of a tropical Christmas, beware of those Northwestern winds adding a nip to the air, especially when the sun bids adieu. Lows are expected to dance around 12°C to 13°C, so keep those cozy sweaters handy for the evening festivities.

History buffs might recall the legendary Christmas of 2009 when temperatures soared to a scorching 23.6°C – talk about breaking a sweat in your Christmas sweater! This year’s temperatures may be above the norm, but we’re not breaking any records just yet. Back in ’86, we had a cold Christmas, and temperatures dropped to a shivering 3.7°C. Count your blessings, this year’s forecast promises a warmer embrace.

If you’re planning some post-Christmas outdoor adventures, fear not! Boxing Day brings moderate winds and partly cloudy skies, ensuring a delightful extension of the holiday cheer. Daytime temperatures will still hover around a balmy 17°C, so you can rock that festive attire without freezing your tinsel off.

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Manchester City Crowned Champions of the World

Dec 23 2023

In a commanding display of prowess, Manchester City claimed the FIFA Club World Cup title with a resounding 4-0 victory over Brazilian opponents Fluminense in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The triumph solidifies City’s place as the fourth English team to clinch the prestigious title, following in the footsteps of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool.

The Sky Blues asserted their dominance early in the match, with Julian Alvarez finding the net in the second minute. An own goal, a precise strike from Phil Foden, and a late second goal from Alvarez sealed a comprehensive win, adding another trophy to City’s remarkable season.

Under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola, Manchester City secured the Club World Cup by virtue of their success in the Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and now the FIFA Club World Cup in 2023. Guardiola, achieving his fourth Club World Cup triumph, led his team to the final with a convincing 4-2 victory over Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds in the semifinals.

Notably, Fluminense earned their place in the competition by triumphing in South America’s Copa Libertadores. However, they faced a formidable City side without injured striker Erling Haaland.

Meanwhile, the third-place match concluded with African champions Al Ahly from Egypt defeating Japan’s Urawa 4-2.

European dominance in the FIFA Club World Cup continued, with European teams winning the competition 16 out of 17 times, further highlighting the continent’s football supremacy on the global stage.

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Shelter Dogs Also Getting In The Christmas Spirit

Dec 22 2023

Even the dogs at the Association for Abandoned Animals shelter are getting into the Christmas spirit!

Their loving carers are making sure that these pawed friends can enjoy the festive season together as they await the potential of a loving family taking them home to celebrate it there!

Come on! Look at those adorable eyes in those Santa and Christmas themed outfits!

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10 Key Pledges For Malta’s Film Crews & Workers

Dec 22 2023

In a mail shot sent to crew members listed in Malta’s Film Directory, Malta Film Commissioner Johann Grech stated, “We are constantly listening and learning from the experience of local crews, at all levels.”

Furthermore, he added that, “from those conversations it is has become clear that now is the time for a set of clear, enforceable crew guidelines. In a series of listening sessions we wanted to find out what the biggest concerns local crew have about fair treatment. Based directly on what you told us we are now finalising the first-ever crew guidelines.”

The guidelines are driven by a clear set of objectives:

1.⁠ ⁠Ensure equal treatment between local and international crew on inbound screen productions.
2.⁠ ⁠Educate crew about what they should be entitled to when working on screen productions in Malta.
3.⁠ ⁠Promote equal treatment of crew across all productions shooting on our islands.

The guidelines are as follows:

“To make those goals a reality, I am delighted to present to you the 10 key pledges that will become the backbone of the first crew guidelines”, concluded Grech.

#MaltaDaily