
JPMorgan Sustainable Municipal Income ETF (NYSEARCA:JMSI) Shares Sold by PNC Financial Services Group Inc.
Stock futures are little changed as Wall Street gears up for potential Fed rate cut this week: Live updatesTransforming Learning for Pakistani Youth In our rapidly changing world, technology plays a crucial role in transforming education. It is altering not only the methods teachers employ but also the ways in which students absorb information. Furthermore, technology is creating new opportunities while tackling persistent issues within the educational landscape. In Pakistan, the integration of digital learning tools, online classes, and educational applications has led to notable improvements, enhancing the learning experience for young students by making it more engaging, adaptable and accessible. Visualize a classroom where interactive whiteboards take the place of traditional blackboards, and students utilize educational software and e-books instead of cumbersome printed materials. This trend is increasing gradually in many Pakistani institutions. Digital learning resources have revolutionized conventional teaching approaches, allowing educators to design more captivating and participatory lessons. The number of online learning platforms has surged, offering a vast array of resources that support in-person teaching. These platforms enable learners to progress at their own pace and revisit challenging topics whenever necessary. The engaging and visual characteristics of these tools not only capture students’ interest but also enhance their comprehension of the subject matter. In remote or marginalized areas, where access to quality education has historically been limited, digital solutions are making a significant impact. Initiatives like ‘Digital Pakistan’ strive to close the education gap by providing internet connectivity and digital devices to students, fostering a more inclusive and fair learning environment. The covid-19 pandemic marked a pivotal moment for education globally and specifically in Pakistan. As schools and universities temporarily closed, online classes became the standard, allowing students to continue their education without disruption. Platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Classroom emerged as vital resources for both educators and learners. Online education offers a degree of flexibility that traditional classrooms cannot provide. Students can attend lectures from their homes, access recorded classes whenever they wish, and engage in discussions through virtual platforms. This flexibility is especially advantageous for learners with additional commitments, such as part-time employment or family responsibilities. The transition to online learning has also encouraged innovative teaching strategies. Flipped classrooms, where students watch lecture videos at home and participate in interactive sessions during class, have become increasingly popular. This method promotes active learning and critical analysis, motivating students to take ownership of their educational journey. In addition, online education has granted Pakistani students the opportunity to enroll in courses and connect with instructors from prestigious universities worldwide, broadening their horizons and exposing them to high-quality materials. With the expanding use of smartphones and mobile internet, educational applications have gained traction as valuable learning tools. These applications cater to various educational needs and personalize the learning experience. In Pakistan, apps like Sabaq, Edkasa, and Noon Academy have become widely adopted. These applications provide interactive lessons, practice quizzes, and instant feedback, making the learning process enjoyable and efficient. Elements of gamification, such as rewards and leaderboards, encourage students to remain involved and accomplish their learning objectives. Educational applications also serve as useful resources for parents and teachers. Parents can track their children’s progress and offer additional support when required, while educators can utilize these apps to assign homework, conduct assessments, and customize their teaching based on individual student requirements. While technology offers many advantages in education, there are challenges that must be tackled to ensure its effective and widespread implementation. A significant issue is the digital divide, which denotes the disparity between individuals who have access to technology and those who lack it. In Pakistan, this disparity is especially evident in rural and underprivileged regions, where internet connectivity and access to digital devices are scarce. To close this divide, collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential to improve infrastructure, enhance internet connectivity, and make digital devices affordable for students. One of the urgent challenges in Pakistan is to guide the youth towards the positive and educational uses of the internet. The digital era presents vast opportunities for learning and skill acquisition, yet many young individuals are unaware of how to tap into this potential effectively. Distractions from social media, misinformation, and unproductive usage often overshadow the educational advantages of the internet. To counter this, digital literacy programs are needed to instruct students on how to access reliable resources, utilize online learning platforms, and develop marketable skills. Schools, parents, and policymakers must work together to offer training sessions, promote awareness initiatives, and establish secure online environments, ensuring that the internet serves as a tool for empowerment and advancement rather than as a distraction. Another significant challenge is the training of teachers. Although digital tools can enhance teaching, their success depends on how well educators can incorporate these tools into their teaching strategies. Professional development initiatives that focus on digital pedagogy and the use of technology in the classroom are vital for empowering teachers and optimizing the benefits of digital learning. The incorporation of technology in education has undeniably changed the learning experience for Pakistani youth. Digital learning resources, online classes, and educational applications have rendered education more accessible, engaging, and tailored to individual needs. As Pakistan continues to adopt technological advancements, addressing challenges such as digital literacy, infrastructure, and teacher training is fundamental to ensure that every student can reap the benefits of these innovations. By leveraging technology, Pakistan can realize the full potential of its youth, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The prospects for education in Pakistan are promising, and technology will be crucial in shaping its future. With ongoing investment and innovation, the country can establish an inclusive and vibrant educational environment that enables every student to thrive. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );Maresca led the Foxes to the Sky Bet Championship title last season before joining Chelsea over the summer. Leicester famously toasted their improbable Premier League success in 2016 with an impromptu bash at Vardy’s house. But the venue for last April’s party was not at the striker’s abode, but at Maresca’s house when the players turned up unannounced at 2am. Maresca recalled: “The best present I had from last season was when we got promoted and they arrived at my home. All the team. “This showed the connection between the players; they could go for a party at a different place but they all arrived at my home. It was a fantastic connection and I will always be thankful for them. “I was at home celebrating with my staff and my family and about two o’clock in the morning all the squad was there. We celebrated all together. Last night at Enzo’s 🏡 💙 — Leicester City (@LCFC) “When I was a player and I won things I never thought to go to the manager’s home. That shows the connection.” Similarly to when they clinched the Premier League crown, Leicester were not actually playing when they found out they were promoted after Leeds lost at QPR. “To be honest I was at home watching the game and when it finished all the staff came over – and later the players,” added the Italian. “They didn’t knock on the door, they were in the garden and knocked on the window. What time did they leave? I don’t remember.” Vardy might not be having a party at the end of this season but he is still banging in the goals at 37 and Maresca rates the striker even more highly than England’s two top goalscorers – Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney. “People don’t realise how good he is,” added Maresca. “I know England have been quite lucky because of Kane and Rooney, this type of striker, they are fantastic. “But Jamie is, if you ask me, the best one.” Maresca returns to the King Power Stadium for the first time with Chelsea on Saturday, but he will be without captain Reece James due to a hamstring problem.
TEHRAN- The Bahar Gallery of the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) is currently hosting a visual art exhibition titled “Art Is Fun.” Curated by art critic Soumaya Saikali, the exhibition features compelling works from some of the leading contemporary Iranian artists including Mohammad Mansour Falamaki, Abbas Mashhadizad, Akram Shandiz, Sepideh Sahar, Bahman Nikou, Mehdi Sodeyfi, Farzaneh Golchin and several others. In an interview with the Tehran Times, Saikali reflected on the remarkable progress witnessed in Iranian contemporary visual art over the past fifty years. "It’s truly commendable to see how creativity has evolved, as advanced technology and diverse mediums have merged with individual tastes and styles, allowing for broader manifestations and greater freedom of expression among artists throughout Iran." However, Saikali expressed concern about a noticeable disconnect in recent years between artists and their cultural roots, which she believes starts with family influences and early upbringing. "Many artists seem to overlook that the nurturing environment provided by their loving parents and educational institutions played a crucial role in shaping them into the outstanding professionals they are today." This exhibition offers a unique perspective by portraying artists through a series of playful photographs taken by Saikali herself. In addition, a more serious segment features portraits of the artists alongside their parents, serving as a tribute to the previous generations who helped bring these creative talents into existence. Through this combination of joyful and heartfelt imagery, the exhibition invites viewers to appreciate the rich lineage that contributes to the remarkable artistic achievements we enjoy today, Saikali concluded. “Art Is Fun” group exhibition will be running until December 23. SAB/The chaos of airport travel during the holidays is unmatched. The TSA is reporting that between Dec. 19 and Jan. 2 and auto club says roughly 119 million people will travel 50 or more miles from home during about the same period. The sheer volume of people, cars and more is just one of many reasons why there are people who, no matter how many gifts someone's bringing or how much a visiting nephew is adored, they’d prefer to avoid the pickup lot — or, let’s be real, the grab-and-dash-while-illegally-idling move — at any cost. Others, however, couldn’t fathom not grabbing someone they cared about at arrivals, nor would they want to call a cab to take them to their destination postflight. For every airport-phobic individual, there’s another who relishes in the romanticism of an airport pickup. There are two sides to this debate — and honestly, it won’t be settled any time soon. Weighing whether to brave the airport traffic or leave your loved one standing out in the cold for a taxi? We looked at both sides to help you make up your mind. As an Angeleno, I try to avoid heading to Los Angeles International Airport as much as possible — which means, yes, I loathe airport pickups. Between the hour-plus drive from my house (which doesn’t even factor in ) to the stress of meeting in the correct pickup zone, fetching someone at the airport is a slog. People on TikTok, who capture and mock these too-familiar scenes, are well aware that picking up people at the airport can be hell, too, no matter where your guest is flying into. There’s the The friend who . The agonizing as you wait for your just-arrived guest to get off the plane. (Because, again, that traffic guard will NOT let you idle.) Don’t get me wrong here: I know it’s occasionally necessary — like, say, for guests who are new to their visiting city, need help with luggage/pets/babies/etc. or are heading to a place inconvenient or impossible for a taxi or an Uber to take them to. But if someone can easily call an Uber, I’d much rather cover the cost than get behind the wheel. I’m not alone in how I feel. Redditor posted their in the subreddit UnpopularOpinions, writing that people who expect to be picked up from the airport have an “insane” sense of entitlement. “Most airports are at LEAST 30-45 min (many 60 min) each way without traffic or weather delays,” they wrote. “Expecting someone you love to waste potentially 2 hours round trip (maybe more with traffic) shows you don’t value their time.” Plus, as they put it, there are various options for people of all budgets, including bus, train, airport shuttle, taxi, ride-share apps and more. “And even if you think you’re exempt because you politely ask, you’re putting that person in an awkward position and they’ll probably reluctantly say yes,” they wrote. “Just don’t ask.” Redditor , on the same thread, which has more than 1,000 comments, agreed. “I feel like it shows a lack of personable responsibility,” they said. “If you live in a metropolitan area there is little reason someone needs to be your transport to/from the airport.” And Nikki Waller at the boldly declared in 2023 that “no one should pick you up from the airport.” She pointed to many of the same reasons I do, from problematically congested airport traffic (a huge issue in American cities, especially around the holidays!) to never-quite-accurate airplane arrival times, which can leave you doing the “purgatorial wait” in the cellphone lot for far too long. “Yes, you deserve someone , as United Airlines posted online recently. But your someones deserve even more,” Waller wrote. “Seize your power and let them off the hook, this year and every year. Set a new expectation: a cold drink waiting for you when the cab drops you at home.” For everyone who complains about the airport trek, there’s another person swooning over how getting picked up at the airport is . There are dozens of videos on TikTok filed under “I will always pick the people I love up from the airport no matter how far away it is or how late they land and that pretty much sums me up as a person,” wrote TikToker , alongside footage of them doing exactly that. “Airport pickups are such a show of love,” wrote on X. “Doesn’t matter if it is romantic or platonic. Anyone who picks you up from the airport that you aren’t paying to do so, actually loves you.” Dawn Gilbertson declared in to her anti-airport co-worker Waller that if she’s free, she will “bring anyone to the airport” — including her former husband. “It saves us all money, too,” she added. “Hitching a ride with family or friends adds a personal touch the most charming Uber Black driver can’t replicate.” Washington Post advice columnist Amy Dickinson agreed with the sentiment, writing in a January 2023 piece, “After an arduous journey, seeing a familiar, loving face and then getting a big hug means your journey is over. Whew! Climbing into even the nicest hired car means you’re still traveling — sitting in the back of a car, alone, on one more leg of your journey.” “Nowadays it’s common to outsource everything,” Dickinson wrote. “Let’s not outsource love and compassion.” For others, the airport pickup can actually be a source of joy — not just for the person getting the free ride, but for the person doing the scooping. Musician Marti Purull wrote that “there is something special about taking the trouble to pick someone up.” “As a child, whenever my mum would drive to the airport to give a lift to a returning friend, I would love to join her,” he shared. “Back then, airports were palaces of possibility that I knew I would want to explore someday. However, there was something else: it felt incredible to be there for someone, to watch someone arrive and welcome them, listen to their fresh stories from whatever foreign lands they had visited.” Plus, as Kaitlyn Yarborough , it’s also polite to at least offer to grab your guest from the airport. You may be inconvenienced, but if someone is traveling to visit you, it’s also costing them “time and money,” she wrote. For that reason, “it’s disheartening not to receive an offer to be picked up from or dropped off at the airport.” I’ll be honest: It’s hard not to feel a little bit like a monster for dreading a drive all the way to the airport, and back. But if guests are already staying in your home, or you’re planning other activities with them while they are in your area, etiquette experts say it’s not to want to skip the airport trek. Instead, it’s all about the sentiment behind it. “No one talks about picking up someone at the airport with joy or anticipation,” , an etiquette expert, author and host of , tells Yahoo Life. “You think your loved one is the greatest person alive, but that admiration won't trick your brain into believing air travel pains do not exist.” Frieman says that if you’re asked by a guest to grab them at the airport (ideally, well in advance, so you can properly plan), it’s important to be transparent about the pain points. “Neither side wants to make it more annoying for the other person, on purpose, so lay out all the realistic expectations so both are on the same page,” he says. Making sure your guest knows where you’ll be located at the airport and when can help avoid at least some of the chaos. And there are alternatives, even if they do come with a heftier price tag. You don’t have to leave your guests standing on the curb in the cold, searching for their own taxi, for example: Author and etiquette coach tells Yahoo Life that one way to assist guests with their airport experience is to prearrange a private car, taxi or other service that will take them safely to their destination. While it will certainly cost more money than using your own car to grab your guest, it will save you gas — and potential peace of mind. In doing so, she says, “it is good to let the person know as to why you cannot make it yourself but would love to still care for them and arrange their smooth arrival.” If you want to go the extra mile (just not the ones to the airport) “sending a small gesture — a card or a warm welcome note with a ride — can make their arrival feel special even if you’re not present,” Musayeva explains. While the impetus is often put on the person hosting to decide whether or not they wish to pick the person up at the airport (or drop them off after their visit), , etiquette expert, lifestyle consultant and founder of EtiquetteExpert.Org, says that the guest should also practice good manners, and respect that the person hosting them for the holidays may have their own responsibilities to attend to. “If your host offers to pick you up, one can graciously accept,” she says. “But be quick to offer them an out, such as, ‘Are you sure? I’m more than happy to get an Uber.’” No matter where you stand on this airport issue, it’s not about whether or not you pick someone up, Musayeva says. Instead, it’s about the “symbolism of the act” — especially around the holidays, when “feelings of togetherness are heightened.” However, for others, “the practicality of avoiding the stress and hassle outweighs the gesture” — which is where I, personally, stand. “The tension often comes from mismatched expectations — one person sees it as a sign of closeness, while the other sees it as an unnecessary burden,” Musayeva says. At its core, the debate is less about the act itself and more about what it represents, she explains, which is “love, attention and effort balanced against practicality and personal limits.” The best way to manage all of this? Having an open, honest conversation with your loved ones about their expectations, your limits and concerns. That will make the holidays happier for everyone, whether you’re Ubering home or calling your cousin to chauffeur.
Doncic scores 27 points in return from two-game absence as Mavericks beat Trail Blazers 132-108
Trent Williams did well to secure strong terms via a reworking completed just days before the season. The perennial All-Pro tackle will not be back to close out Year 1 of this revised agreement. Kyle Shanahan announced Monday ( via ESPN.com’s Nick Wagoner ) that his future Hall of Fame blindside blocker will not return from injury this season. Considering the 49ers have been eliminated, this is not especially surprising. Williams, who has been rehabbing an ankle injury, has not played since Week 11. Shanahan had said last week ( via NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport ) Williams would need to be close to healthy to come back this year, and he is not yet at that point. Two years remain on Williams’ contract. This marks the second straight year in which Williams has missed multiple games due to injury. The 49ers went 0-2 in those contests last season; they are 1-4 without Williams this year. Though, San Francisco has seen other valuable cogs miss time during this disastrous stretch as well. The team sits 6-9 as another woeful NFC title defense winds down. Williams, 36, has not made reference to a 2025 retirement yet. After securing a wave of guarantees midway through his six-year contract, it would represent a modest surprise if the former top-five pick walked away after this season. Ending a lengthy holdout via the summer adjustment, the 49ers have moved all but $1.26M of Williams’ 2025 base salary into void years and option bonuses. He received a $25.69M signing bonus upon inking his updated deal in September and will not be moved in 2025, as such a move would be punitive for the 49ers, who would take on $55M-plus in dead money by doing so. Although Williams is wrapping his age-36 season, he has remained one of the best linemen in football. San Francisco would benefit by having him back for what would be a 16th NFL season come 2025. Williams came back this season in a partial effort to set the tackle record for Pro Bowl nods. He is sitting on 11 going into this year’s unveiling; Hall of Famers Anthony Munoz, Jonathan Ogden and Willie Roaf join him at that number. Pro Football Focus slotted Williams seventh overall among tackles this season, a slight drop-off from his usual place, but ESPN’s pass block win rate metric ranks him first. It would not surprise to see Williams, despite missing five games, to be selected to his 12th Pro Bowl soon. The lucrative contract the 49ers gave to Williams has influenced their decision-making up front. The team has a midlevel deal at center ( Jake Brendel ) and a lower-end contract at right tackle ( Colton McKivitz ) and rookie pacts at guard ( Aaron Banks , Dominick Puni ). San Francisco is unlikely to re-sign Banks , and Williams’ contract should be expected to shape the team’s contractual blueprint — especially with Brock Purdy still on track to be paid in 2025 — with regards to its O-line. Williams announcing he is coming back would all but confirm this approach. This article first appeared on Pro Football Rumors and was syndicated with permission.DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic is returning to the Dallas lineup Monday night against the Portland Trail Blazers after missing the Mavericks’ two previous games with a left heel contusion. Doncic won last season’s scoring title with a career-best 33.9 points per game and is fifth in the NBA this season averaging 28.9, and seventh in assists, averaging 8.2. He had triple-doubles in three of his last four games, including his most recent appearance last Sunday with 45 points, 13 assists and 11 rebounds in a 143-133 win at Golden State. The defending Western Conference champions are 18-10, fourth in the West, and have won 13 of their last 16 games following their only losing streak of the season, a four-game skid from Nov. 8-14. ___ AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba The Associated Press
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