bet tagalog

Amol Palekar dedicates his memoir to ‘those who believe in the power of resistance’. Looking at the man through the viewfinder that this book provides, one sees a quiet, determined fighter who will not let the system, injustice, or conventional practices deter him. The book brings to life a different person from the screen image he had mostly adopted in films like and . In real life, as he shows us through the memoir, he believes in ignoring whatever tries to pull him down or fit him into a straitjacket. Yet, in his own way, despite being the stormy petrel who never gave much thought before staging a political satire in open spaces or filing a suit against a formidable producer like B.R. Chopra, or yet again, filing PILs against censorship, Palekar dons the man next door image in real life, shying away from publicity and all the trappings that go with stardom. Among the many aspects of his career, the book is an acknowledgement of the many people who have influenced Palekar’s life. He paints a strong word picture of his first mentor, Satyadev Dubey, the enfant terrible of Marathi and Hindi theatre. Palekar’s narration of his last meeting with Dubey is poignant in its understated depth of feeling. It was Dubey who pulled Palekar onto the acting stage, telling him in his typical manner that he was recruiting him, not because he saw any great talent in Palekar but because he seemed to have plenty of time on his hands. Despite Dubey’s words, Palekar went on to not just act in many noteworthy plays but direct a few path-breaking ones of his own. Perhaps it was Dubey’s penchant for improvising on the playwright’s original that inspired Palekar to edit almost every play he directed in marked ways. Badal Sircar, Mohan Rakesh, and poet and playwright Sadanand Rege are others whom Palekar acknowledges to be shapers of his journey as an actor and director. The remarkable thing about this book is that at every point, in every chapter, Palekar talks about a learning that he shares with the reader. On his own admission, it is a conscious inclusion, and it takes the book to a level above being a narrative about his life and work. The book includes chapters on his foray into Hindi cinema and the subsequent stardom it brought to him. It also mentions the cameos of co-actors, plus the endearing ones on Basu Chatterjee and Hrishikesh Mukherjee, with whom Palekar scored his biggest hits. Stories from the making of , , , and will quench the thirst of his filmgoer fans. So will the detailing of why he chose anti-roles like that of Keshav Dalvi in Shyam Benegal’s . But as significant is the story of Palekar’s own foray into the direction of Hindi films. Movies like , , and are among the path-breaking successes of parellel cinema, with strong, offbeat themes and great music supporting the actors. A piquant story on why he cast the thunderous Nana Patekar in , despite the actor having brought the house down with his violent role in , is worth reading as a mirror to what dedicated actors and directors can do. Equally engaging is a confession of the embarrassment Palekar suffered when he had to dance in a film with Shabana as his co-star and Waheeda Rehman looking on. Approaching acting as someone who must sacrifice himself to look the part, Palekar sported short hair, a thick moustache, and glasses for and played a murderer in , based on the gruesome Manvat child sacrifice case. Palekar does not shy away from talking about his personal life. The mention of first wife, Chitra, is tinged with pathos, and there is enough and more evidence of his admiration for and dependence on his lawyer and writer-director wife, Sandhya. The book offers QR codes that open up into films, scenes, and songs from some of his work, and is punctuated by evocative watercolours of the author. It is definitely a book for your book shelf and worthy of being in every library.No. 5 Alabama has a reputation as 3-point gunners, but it's defense and rebounding that have become a focus as the Tide welcome South Dakota State to Tuscaloosa, Ala., to end the 2024 calendar year. Alabama (10-2) is frequently thought of as an offensive 3-point shooting free-for-all program, but Nate Oats' 2024-25 squad has thrived largely on the basis of inside play. The Tide are shooting 62.2 percent on their two-point attempts and grab 45 rebounds per game, each figure placing the team among the national leaders in those categories. Alabama does still shoot an average of 31 3-point shots per game, again one of the nation's highest totals. But so far, Alabama's 31.2 percent connection rate is very ordinary. But connecting inside and owning the glass has held benefits for Alabama. Meanwhile, defense has concerned Oats, particularly coming off a 97-90 win over North Dakota on Dec. 18. Oats issued warnings about players losing spots in the rotation if defensive execution didn't improve. Alabama passed the first post-North Dakota test in an 81-54 win over Kent State on Sunday. "We did make a big point of emphasis on defense, especially after that debacle up in North Dakota," said Oats after the Kent State victory. "It was a much better defensive effort, so it will be a lot better Christmas break for us." Alabama won the rebounding battle over Kent State 60-40, although Oats contended that the Tide "gave up too many second-chance points." Alabama made 72 percent of its two-point attempts even as just 9 of 35 3-point attempts connected. Alabama has battled personnel uncertainty early in the season. An Achilles injury ended the season of guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. just as transfer Chris Youngblood was preparing to return from an ankle injury. The Tide have 11 players averaging double-digit minutes and eight averaging 7.4 points per game or better, led by super senior guard Mark Sears with 17.8 ppg. Super senior forward Grant Nelson remains a key player, leading the Tide with 8.7 rebounds per game while adding 12.8 ppg. Meanwhile, South Dakota State (9-5) will pin its upset hopes largely on Aussie transfer Oscar Cluff. A 6-foot-11 senior who transferred in from Washington State, Cluff has averaged 16.6 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. Cluff is connecting on 71.4 percent of his shot attempts. He's also shooting 79.2 percent at the foul line and has stabilized a young Jackrabbits team with four freshmen among the top seven scorers. "Oscar's just built the right way," said coach Eric Henderson. "We have probably played through the post more than any other team in the country the last five years and we just felt like we needed a big man that had some experience and boy does he ever." Cluff had a streak of five straight double-doubles, but that ended in recent losses to Nevada and Colorado. The Jackrabbits won 87-72 over Chadron State in their last game on Dec. 19. --Field Level Media

Gaya metro rail project: Two corridors to link pilgrim sites

Pat Cummins Attempts to Use DRS on Third Umpire's Decision After He Adjudges Mohammed Siraj Not Out During IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test 2024 (Watch Video)

Upcoming IPO: BR Goyal Infrastructure Gets BSE Aprroval For SME Public Issue; Check Key Details Here

If you’ve never heard of Final Audio, well, they have been around for 50-years and make some excellent Hi-Fi gear. The company has just announced the new Final Audio D8000 DC and DC Pro flagship headphones. The D8000 planar-magnetic headphones were first launched seven years ago, and brought with them an entirely unique driver technology which revolutionized the capabilities of planar. Estimated reading time: 5 minutes Since then, Final Audio has further developed these techniques, inventing new technology and improving their early designs, paving the way for the D8000 DC and DC Pro. Here’s what the rest of the press release had to say about these new devices. The Final D8000 DC and DC Pro will be available to purchase from selected retailers in the UK now and available to pre-order in the US (Shipping mid-December) – D8000 DC Pro $4,799/€4,799/£4,499 – D8000 DC $4,299/€4,299/£3,999. Final Audio D8000 DC and DC Pro Headphones The new Final Audio D8000 DC and DC Pro headphones bring new possibilities to planar magnetic audio with an advanced iteration of its proprietary Air Film Damping System (AFDS) technology. The “DC” in D8000 DC stands for “Da Capo”, symbolizing a return to the beginning – a complete reconstruction of Final’s flagship headphones with a fresh, innovative approach. Initially developed seven years ago to address limitations in low-frequency response, Final’s AFDS uses air’s natural characteristics to regulate diaphragm movement, providing richer, distortion-free bass reproduction. By overcoming typical planar magnetic constraints, AFDS allows for a deep, balanced soundstage that captures audio with remarkable accuracy across the spectrum. For the latest D8000 DC and DC Pro models, Final Audio has taken AFDS one step further. Every element of the metal mesh structure surrounding the diaphragm, including its hole diameters, pitches, and patterns, has been thoroughly redesigned. Distinctive mesh patterns placed in front of and behind the diaphragm create an organic, open bass response, while Final’s breathable ‘washi paper’ ear pads add to the sense of depth and spatial clarity. Years of advanced research and engineering has enhanced the D8000 DC and DC Pro’s capacity to deliver a listening experience like no other. At the heart of the D8000 DC’s sound signature is an ultra-lightweight diaphragm, crafted from etched aluminum foil. This design reduces the weight of the vibration system by about one-third, ensuring fast responsiveness to audio signals. The result is a sound profile that captures delicate high-frequency details with superior precision, bringing an airy, refined quality to the headphones. With these enhancements, the Final D8000 DC and DC Pro stand as a breakthrough in high-end planar magnetic technology, offering a dynamic, authentic listening experience for audiophiles. Final takes pride in its Japanese heritage, which shows in how the D8000 DC has been produced. Manufactured at Final’s headquarters in Kawasaki, the precision of the product assembly relies on the quality of the machinery involved in production. This is why Final Audio develops its own equipment, such as production jigs, diaphragm molding machines, and many of the measuring instruments used to create a consistently precise and scientifically controlled manufacturing environment. With the launch of the D8000 DC and D8000 DC Pro, Final Audio has made sure to consider the use cases of this headphone. The D8000 DC has tuning that is intended to be enjoyed, and while the standard DC model will suit the tastes of many pro users, it is the music listening experience where these have been designed to shine. The D8000 DC Pro Edition retains the delicate sound quality of the D8000 DC, while being adjusted to suit human hearing characteristics, where bass becomes more prominent as the listening volume increases. Please choose the model that best matches your preferred listening volume and sound quality. Both models come supplied with two cables – 1 x 4.4mm and 1 x 4-pin XLR. The D8000 DC Pro has the added benefit of utilizing Final’s silver braided cable for increased performance and added value. Key Features Air Film Damping System (AFDS): Redesigned planar magnetic driver for improved transient response and reduced distortion. Re-engineered Acoustic Chamber: Unique chamber design and reshaped ear pads for optimal sound performance. High-Quality Washi Paper Ear Pads and Headband: Lightweight and durable material for enhanced comfort. Weight Reduction: 120 grams lighter than the original D8000 model. Distinctive Finishes: Available in refined matte-silver or matte-black. Premium Silver-Coated Cable (D8000 DC Pro only): Includes a balanced 4.4mm TRRRS terminal and a 4-pin XLR connector for high-purity signal transmission. Enhanced Playback Performance: Designed to handle higher volumes with minimized rattling and sound degradation. Comfort Optimized Clamping Force: Fine-tuned headband clamping for long-lasting, stress-free listening. “Da Capo” Redesign: Complete reconstruction of the D8000 series from the ground up for enhanced performance. Made in Final’s Workshops: Meticulously crafted with innovative technology and premium materials in Japan. Tech Specs Chassis: Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Driver: AFDS Planar Magnetic Type Sensitivity: 90dB/mW Impedance: 50 ohms Weight: 431g D8000 DC Cable: OFC Cable (4.4mm/1.5m, XLR/3m) D8000 DC Pro Cable: Silver-Coated Cable (4.4mm/1.5m, XLR/3m) In some of our articles and especially in our reviews, you will find Amazon or other affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. Any other purchases you make through these links often result in a small amount being earned for the site and/or our writers. Techaeris often covers brand press releases. Doing this does not constitute an endorsement of any product or service by Techaeris. We provide the press release information for our audience to be informed and make their own decision on a purchase or not. Only our reviews are an endorsement or lack thereof. For more information, you can read our full disclaimer .VCA Animal Hospitals and Antech Advocate for More Comprehensive Pet Data in Public Health Reporting, Recommend Six-Step Framework for One Health Collaboration

Holding fort in the happiest country

Colby Rogers made 6 of 9 3-pointers and scored 28 points as host Memphis defeated No. 16 Ole Miss 87-70 on Saturday afternoon. Rogers fouled out and finished one 3-pointer and one point short of his career-highs in both categories and Memphis never trailed. PJ Haggerty added 17 points, Dain Dainja had 16 and Moussa Cisse, an Ole Miss transfer who's in his second stint with the Tigers (10-3), had 13 points and 11 rebounds. Sean Pedulla scored 13, Jaylen Murray had 12 and Malik Dia added 11 to lead the Rebels (11-2), who had won their last five games. Memphis scored the first five points of the second half to increase its lead to 43-36. Pedulla made a layup for Ole Miss' first points, but Nicholas Jourdain made consecutive field goals to push the lead to nine. Mikeal Brown-Jones made two free throws for the Rebels before Haggerty made a 3-pointer and Cisse added a tip-in for a 52-40 lead. Pedulla made a jumper before Brown-Jones was ejected for committing a Flagrant 2 foul. Haggerty made both of the technical free throws and Rogers added two 3-pointers to push the lead to 16. Ole Miss got within 11 points four times, but couldn't get any closer until Matthew Murrell's dunk trimmed the lead to 76-67 with five minutes remaining. Rogers answered with a 3-pointer and Dainja added two field goals to increase the lead to 16. Murray made a free throw, but the Rebels didn't make a field goal during the final 5:32. The Tigers scored the first four points of the game and Haggerty had four as they opened a 9-2 lead. The Rebels made consecutive field goals before Memphis scored eight straight points for a 17-6 lead. Eduardo Klafke made a 3-pointer to end the run, but Rogers' 3-pointer helped the Tigers increase the lead to 27-14. Ole Miss scored the next seven points before Cisse's basket ended the run. The Rebels closed within four points four times Brown-Jones made two free throws to trim the lead to 38-36 at halftime. --Field Level Media

Data from the ongoing Phase 1/2 ATALANTA-1 study in a heavily pretreated R/R NHL patient population demonstrate high antitumor activity and an encouraging safety profile in all NHL subtypes studied. 96% of patients received an infusion of fresh, fit, stem-like, early memory CD19 CAR T-cell therapy with a median vein-to-vein time of seven days, avoiding the need for cryopreservation and bridging therapy. These data reinforce the potential of Galapagos' decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform to deliver fresh, fit cells, fast, driving positive patient outcomes. Mechelen, Belgium; December 7, 2024, 18:30 CET; Galapagos NV ((Euronext &, NASDAQ: GLPG ) today announced additional data from the ongoing Phase 1/2 ATALANTA-1 study of its CD19 CAR T-cell therapy, GLPG5101. The results, featured in an oral presentation at the 66 th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition, demonstrate an encouraging efficacy and safety profile in patients with relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R NHL). Most patients in the study received GLPG5101 as a fresh, fit, stem-like, early memory CD19 CAR T-cell therapy, with a median vein-to-vein time of seven days. "Shorter vein-to-vein time can lead to improved patient outcomes and remains an important unmet need in CAR-T therapy," said Marie José Kersten, MD, ATALANTA-1 Principal Investigator and Professor of Hematology at the Department of Hematology at Amsterdam University Medical Center. "I am impressed by the latest data on GLPG5101, which demonstrate a promising efficacy and safety profile. With a median vein-to-vein time of just seven days, GLPG5101 has the potential to offer speed and scheduling flexibility, comparable to off-the-shelf therapies." "CAR-T therapies are highly personalized treatments that currently undergo a time-intensive manufacturing process taking multiple weeks to months. For many patients with rapidly progressing cancers, every day counts, and treatment delays can be detrimental," said Jeevan Shetty, MD, Head of Clinical Development Oncology at Galapagos. "We are steadfast in our commitment to bring innovation to cell therapies to address the most significant medical challenges. Our latest data at ASH strongly support the feasibility of our innovative decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform in delivering fresh, fit cells with a median vein-to-vein time of just seven days, driving positive patient outcomes." The new ATALANTA-1 data are summarized below: The ongoing ATALANTA-1 study included updated data on patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), follicular lymphoma (FL), and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). As of the April 25, 2024, data cut-off, 49 patients received CD19 CAR T-cell therapy infusion, and safety and efficacy results were available for 45 patients and 42 patients, respectively. High objective response rates (ORR) and complete response rates (CRR) were observed in the pooled Phase 1 and Phase 2 efficacy analysis set, split by indication: In patients with MCL, all 8 of 8 efficacy-evaluable patients responded to treatment (ORR and CRR 100%). In patients with MZL, FL, objective and complete responses were observed in 20 of 21 efficacy-evaluable patients (ORR and CRR 95%). In patients with DLBCL, 9 of 13 efficacy-evaluable patients responded to treatment (ORR 69%), with 7 patients achieving a complete response (CRR 54%). Of the 7 patients with DLBCL who received the higher dose, 6 responded to treatment (ORR 86%) with 5 achieving a complete response (CRR 71%). Of the 15 minimal residual disease (MRD)-evaluable patients with a complete response, 12 patients (80%) achieved MRD negativity and remained in complete response at data cut-off. The median study follow-up was 3.3 months for FL and DLBCL with a range of 0.9-21.2 months, and 4.4 months for MCL with a range of 1-24.4 months. GLPG5101 showed an encouraging safety profile, with the majority of Grade ≥ 3 treatment emergent adverse events being hematological. One case of CRS Grade 3 was observed in Phase 1 and one case of ICANS Grade 3 was observed in Phase 2. 96% of patients (47 of 49) received an infusion with fresh, fit, stem-like early memory CD19 CAR T-cell therapy, with 91.5% (43 of 47) achieving a vein-to-vein time of seven days, thereby avoiding cryopreservation, and eliminating the need for bridging therapy. Strong and consistent in vivo CAR-T expansion levels and products consisting of stem-like, early memory phenotype T cells were observed in all doses tested. About the ATALANTA-1 study (EudraCT 2021-003272-13) ATALANTA-1 is an ongoing Phase 1/2, open-label, multicenter study to evaluate the safety, efficacy and feasibility of decentralized manufactured GLPG5101, a CD19 CAR-T product candidate, in patients with relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R NHL). GLPG5101 is a second generation anti-CD19/4-1BB CAR-T product candidate, administered as a single fixed intravenous dose. The primary objective of the Phase 1 part of the study is to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy to determine the recommended dose for the Phase 2 part of the study. Secondary objectives include assessment of efficacy and feasibility of decentralized manufacturing of GLPG5101. The dose levels that were evaluated in Phase 1 are 50×10 6 (DL1), 110×10 6 (DL2) and 250×10 6 (DL3) CAR+ viable T cells. The primary objective of the Phase 2 part of the study is to evaluate the objective response rate (ORR), while the secondary objectives include complete response rate (CRR), duration of response, progression free survival, overall survival, safety, pharmacokinetic profile, and the feasibility of decentralized manufacturing. Each enrolled patient will be followed for 24 months. About Galapagos' cell therapy manufacturing platform Galapagos' innovative decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform has the potential for the administration of fresh, fit, stem-like, early memory T-cells within a median vein-to-vein time of seven days, greater physician visibility, and improved patient experience. The platform consists of an end-to-end xCellit® workflow management and monitoring software system, a decentralized, functionally closed, automated manufacturing platform for cell therapies (using Lonza's Cocoon®) and a proprietary quality control testing and release strategy. About Galapagos We are a biotechnology company with operations in Europe and the U.S. dedicated to transforming patient outcomes through life-changing science and innovation for more years of life and quality of life. Focusing on high unmet medical needs, we synergize compelling science, technology, and collaborative approaches to create a deep pipeline of best-in-class small molecules and cell therapies in oncology and immunology. With capabilities from lab to patient, including a decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform, and the financial strength to invest strategically for the near- and long-term, we are committed to challenging the status quo and delivering results for our patients, employees, and shareholders. Our goal is not just to meet current medical needs but to anticipate and shape the future of healthcare, ensuring that our innovations reach those who need them most. For additional information, please visit www.glpg.com or follow us on LinkedIn or X . For further information, please contact: Media inquiries: Marieke Vermeersch +32 479 490 603 Jennifer Wilson + 44 7539 359 676 media@glpg.com Investor inquiries: Srikant Ramaswami +1 412 699 0359 Sandra Cauwenberghs +32 495 58 46 63 ir@glpg.com Forward-looking statements This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements are often, but are not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as "anticipate," "expect," "plan," "estimate," "will," "continue," "aim," "intend," "future," "potential," "could," "indicate," "forward," "may," as well as similar expressions. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding preliminary, interim and topline data from the ATALANTA-1 study and other analyses related to Galapagos' CD19 CAR-T programs, statements related to Galapagos' plans, expectations and strategy with respect to the ATALANTA-1 study, and statements regarding the expected timing, design and readouts of the ATALANTA-1 study, including the expected recruitment for such studies, and the potential benefits of Galapagos' product candidates, including GLPG5101, and partnered programs, including uza-cel. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which might cause Galapagos' actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, without limitation, the risk that preliminary or interim clinical results may not be replicated in ongoing or subsequent clinical studies, the risk that ongoing and future clinical studies with Galapagos' product candidates, including GLPG5101, may not be completed in the currently envisaged timelines or at all, the inherent uncertainties associated with competitive developments, clinical study and product development activities and regulatory approval requirements (including that data from the ongoing and planned clinical research programs may not support registration or further development of GLPG5101 due to safety, efficacy or other reasons), Galapagos' reliance on collaborations with third parties (including its collaboration partners Lonza and Adaptimmune), and that Galapagos' estimations regarding its GLPG5101 development programs and regarding the commercial potential of GLPG5101 may be incorrect, as well as those risks and uncertainties identified in Galapagos' Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its subsequent filings with the SEC. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained herein are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and speak only as of the date hereof, and Galapagos makes no commitment to update or publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements in order to reflect new information or subsequent events, circumstances or changes in expectations. Attachment Galapagos Press Release_ASH ATALANTA-1_ENG_Final © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Players Era Festival organizers betting big NIL is future of college tourneys

Press Release: The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) inform the public that a suspected case of New World Screwworm (NWS) is being investigated in the southwestern Toledo District. BAHA has dispatched technical teams to conduct the investigation, and the public will be advised of the progress. Producers, transporters, and the public are reminded that preventative measures include regular inspection of animals, early notification, wound curing, and controlled animal movement. Key points to remember include: • Immediately report all cases of myiasis (infestation of wounds by larvae) to the nearest BAHA or MAFSE office or healthcare provider. • Ensure small stock and livestock are physically inspected and have an NWS Health Inspection Certificate and Movement Permit before any movement occurs. • Ensure movement of all small stock and livestock occurs during daylight hours. • Declare all animals (including pets) upon arrival at an Animal Movement Control Point. • Import animals only with the approval and authorization of BAHA. • DO NOT import animals through a non-established point of entry and border crossings. Any person who contravenes the Belize Agricultural Health Authority Statutory Instrument 143 of 2024: New World Screwworm Prevention, Control, and Eradication Regulations commits an offense and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding five thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or to both such fine and terms of imprisonment. BAHA and MAFSE remind its partners, stakeholders, and the public that this highly prolific and devastating parasite has continuously spread through Central America primarily due to the illegal movement of animals. Cases of suspect larval infestations in animals can be reported to the BAHA Animal Health Department offices at 824-4872 in Central Farm, 302-1388 in Orange Walk, or via WhatsApp at 670-7003. For further information, email the Animal Health Department at [email protected] or call 824-4872.The internet has extended our writing rather than killing it off, a linguist has said. Gretchen McCulloch, a Canadian academic, said that before social media, texting and emails many people finished school and never picked up a pen or wrote on a keyboard again. Now, though, thanks to the internet, it was rare to go a day without writing, she said. McCulloch, author of Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language , told the Instant Genius podcast: “It used to be much more possible to go through your life after you finish school without really writing at all — unless your job involved writing, you could just sort of not write after that. “Now it’s so hard to go through even a day without sending people a text, maybe posting some things publicly — but even if you’re not publicly on social media, you’re still co-ordinating things via text, making these sort of short texts to people.

by Sunil G Wijesinha Consultant on Productivity and Japanese Style Management Recipient of the “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” from the Government of Japan Director, BizEx Consulting (Pvt) Ltd Email: bizex.seminarsandconsulting@gmail.com This is the season of Santa Clauses, Reindeer, Xmas cards and Gifts. This triggered my memory of a Christmas card I received long ago. I was fortunate to be selected to follow an ILO /MATCOM programme at the Vienna International Centre, Austria. The programme focused on training methodology and developing training material for managerial-level persons in Co-operative Societies through a more andragogy based methodology. It was an exhilarating experience for me, and at the end of two weeks, I had re-oriented my perceptions and attitudes on training methodology and developing training material, and acquired a vast knowledge in the area of andragogy training.. I received an interesting Xmas card from the MATCOM project at Christmas that year. It showed two Santa Clauses in conversation. The dialogue was something like this: First Santa “I taught my reindeer to sing” Second Santa : “But I have never heard your reindeer singing.” First Santa again : “I did not say he learnt to sing; I said I taught him to sing.” This hilarious exchange highlights a critical truth: teaching and learning are not synonymous. While teaching imparts knowledge and skills, learning involves internalizing, understanding, and applying what is taught. Simply put, teaching may occur without learning, and learning may happen without formal teaching. Rote Learning vs. Meaningful Learning The distinction between teaching and learning becomes even more apparent when we examine two approaches: rote learning and meaningful or active learning . Both have their place but differ significantly in their outcomes and effectiveness. Rote Learning: The Path of Memorisation Rote learning involves memorising information without necessarily understanding its meaning or context. This method emphasizes repetition, often at the expense of comprehension. While it can help recall facts, definitions, or sequences (e.g., multiplication tables or historical dates), its limitations become evident when critical thinking is required. A real-life example of Rote Learning Several years ago, we were recruiting at the executive entry level. All candidates were newly passed out university graduates of business or commerce degrees. In the written examination, one question was, “Peter Drucker states that the responsibility of communicating rests with the communicator, not with the recipient. – Discuss”. Not a single candidate discussed the quote. Still, they all reproduced the traditional communication diagram learnt in the university, showing the sender, the receiver, the message, the medium, interference, etc in a nice diagram. It was a shocking revelation. Last month, I interviewed two candidates who had received their degrees in financial engineering. Both failed to explain what the degree is all about and how a Financial Engineer could add value to our organization. Meaningful or Active Learning: The Path of Understanding Meaningful learning, in contrast, emphasizes understanding and connecting new information to prior knowledge. Active participation, critical thinking, and real-world application characterize this approach. It helps retain information longer and fosters the ability to analyse, evaluate, and create. Example of Meaningful Learning Following a course in Industrial and Systems Engineering in Japan, I was impressed with the approach used to make us understand the “time value of money”. I had completed my CIMA accountancy exams too by that time and could compare the two approaches to teaching this concept. In Sri Lanka, the lecturer came to class and wrote “Time Value of Money” on the board and explained the idea. Quite in contrast, in Japan the lecturer gave us a series of quizes, starting with a simple example where any layman could make an investment decision. We had to decide which alternative investment was more beneficial for each scenario. One by one, the examples were rolled out and became trickier. Finally, we discovered the “aha” moment when we started thinking that an amount realized now is better than the same amount a year later. We learned by experiencing different situations. We discovered the concept through guidance rather than being taught the concept. Professor Carson from Canada was one of our MBA course lecturers. He also lectured undergraduates and often said undergraduate students in Sri Lanka want to take notes rather than discuss a topic. He would joke that when he arrived at the lecture room and said, “Good Morning, Class,” most students would even write that down in their notebooks. Bridging the Gap: From Teaching to Learning The X-mas card’s humorous depiction of Santa highlights a common educational challenge: ensuring that teaching translates into learning. Effective teaching involves more than just delivering information; it requires creating an environment where students are motivated, engaged, and supported in their learning journey. Strategies to Promote Learning 1. Create a Supportive Learning Environment: Teachers can actively engage students with discussions, group activities, and problem-solving exercises. They can also use technology to enhance the learning experience, such as interactive whiteboards or educational apps. However, creating a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes is not just a strategy; it’s a crucial responsibility for promoting learning. It’s about fostering a culture of learning and growth. 2. Encourage Critical Thinking Asking open-ended questions and encouraging debates can help students move beyond surface-level understanding. For example, analysing characters’ motivations and societal implications in literature classes fosters deeper engagement with the text. 3. Connect to Real-Life Contexts Relating lessons to students’ experiences or current events can make learning more meaningful. I still remember our school geography teacher teaching us about monsoon. I still remember his teaching that the rains during the big match in March were inter-monsoon rains. In training Co-operative Society managers, I realized that although they understood concepts such as Break-Even Analysis and Stock turnover ratios, they could not apply them to their organisation. We changed the method, so they brought their own data and practised using their own figures. This was a huge success. 4. Provide Feedback and Reflection Opportunities Feedback helps students understand what they’ve grasped and where they need improvement. Reflective practices, like journaling or group discussions, enable them to process and what they’ve learned. Conclusion: The Synergy of Teaching and Learning Teaching and learning are interconnected yet distinct. While teaching imparts knowledge, learning is acquiring and applying it. Rote learning has its place in specific contexts, but meaningful learning creates lasting understanding and fosters critical thinking. Educators must strive to bridge the gap between teaching and learning, ensuring that their efforts lead to genuine comprehension and application. As the Santa story humorously reminds us, teaching does not automatically lead to learning. Learning only occurs when we align teaching methods with learners’ needs and actively engage them. Therefore, let’s strive to make Sri Lanka a country of learners rather than of teachers. In this shift, educators have the most significant responsibility and the highest opportunity to make this difference.

PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron expressed “gratitude” Saturday to those who saved, helped and rebuilt Notre Dame Cathedral. “I stand before you ... to express the gratitude of the French nation,” Macron said at the reopening ceremony. “Tonight, the bells of Notre Dame are ringing again. And in a moment, the organ will awaken,” sending the “music of hope” to Parisians, France and the world. Macron spoke in front of 1,500 guests invited to celebrate the restoration of Paris’ 12th-century cathedral which was nearly destroyed by a fire in 2019. They included world leaders like President-elect Donald Trump , U.S. first lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Prince William and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. PARIS (AP) — Howling winds couldn’t stop Notre Dame Cathedral ’s heart from beating again. With three resounding knocks on its doors by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, wielding a specially designed crosier carved from fire-scorched beams, the monument roared back to life Saturday evening. For the first time since a devastating blaze nearly destroyed it in 2019, the towering Gothic masterpiece reopened for worship, its rebirth marked by song, prayer, and awe beneath its soaring arches. The ceremony, initially planned to begin on the forecourt, was moved entirely inside due to unusually fierce December winds sweeping across the Île de la Cité, flanked by the River Seine. Yet the occasion lost none of its splendor. Inside the luminous nave, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s mighty organ, silent for nearly five years, thundered to life in a triumphant interplay of melodies. The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a structure that took nearly two centuries to build, is seen as a moment of triumph for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline — and a welcome respite from his domestic political woes . The evening’s celebration, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored Notre Dame’s enduring role as both a spiritual and cultural beacon. Observers see the event as Macron's, and his intention to pivot it into a fully fledged diplomatic gathering, while highlighting France’s ability to unite on the global stage despite internal political crises. Inside, 42,000 square meters of stonework — an area equal to six soccer pitches — were meticulously cleaned, revealing luminous limestone and intricate carvings. Overhead, 2,000 oak beams, nicknamed “the forest,” were used to rebuild the spire and roof, restoring the cathedral’s iconic silhouette. The thunderous great organ, with 7,952 pipes ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide, resounded for the first time since the fire. Its newly renovated console, boasting five keyboards, 115 stops, and 30 foot pedals, was a marvel of restoration, reawakening a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s identity. Guests gradually filing into the cathedral for the evening reopening ceremonies were awestruck by the renovated interiors, many whipping out cellphones to capture the moment. “It’s a sense of perfection,” said François Le Page of the Notre Dame Foundation, which raised nearly half of the €900 million ($950 million) in donations for the restoration. He last visited in 2021, when the cathedral was cloaked in scaffolding. “It was somber,” he said. “It’s night and day.” The Rev. Andriy Morkvas, a Ukrainian pastor who leads the Volodymyr Le Grand church in Paris, reflected on his first visit to Notre Dame in over a decade. “I didn’t recognize it,” he said. “God is very powerful; He can change things.” He expressed hope that the cathedral’s revival could inspire peace in his homeland, drawing strength from the presence of Ukraine’s president. “I think that will have a big impact,” he said. “I hope Notre Dame and Mary will help us resolve this conflict.” The reopening of Notre Dame comes at a time of profound global unrest, with wars raging in Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ “It is a magnificent symbol of unity,” Dumas said. “Notre Dame is not just a French monument—it is a magnificent sign of hope.” The international range of dignitaries coming to Paris underline the cathedral’s significance as a symbol of shared heritage and peace. Canadian visitor Noelle Alexandria, who had traveled to Paris for the reopening, was struck by the cathedral’s ability to inspire. “She’s been nearly ruined before, but she always comes back,” Alexandria said. “Not many of us could say the same after such tragedy, but Notre Dame can.” Guests entered through Notre Dame’s iconic western façade, whose arched portals adorned with biblical carvings were once a visual guide for medieval believers. Above the central Portal of the Last Judgment, the Archangel Michael is depicted weighing souls, as demons attempt to tip the scales. These stone figures, designed to inspire both awe and fear, set the stage for a ceremony steeped in history. Inside, the hum of hundreds of guests awaiting the service filled the cathedral with human sounds once more — a stark contrast to the construction din that echoed there for years. Tuners restoring the great organ often worked through the night to find the silence needed to perfect its 7,952 pipes, ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide. Notre Dame echoed to the sound of a sustained standing ovation after the showing of a short movie that documented the gargantuan rebuilding effort. Outside, the word “MERCI” — thank you — was projected against the cathedral’s iconic western facade. The movie showed the terrible wounds left by the inferno — the gaping holes torn into its vaulted ceilings and the burned roof. But that was followed by images of all types of artisans, many using traditional handicraft techniques, who collectively restored Notre Dame to look better now than ever. "We went from night to light," said one of the workers in the movie. The celebration is expected to give a much-needed boost to embattled Macron, whose prime minister was ousted this week , plunging the nation’s politics into more turmoil. The French president, who has called Notre Dame's reopening “a jolt of hope,” will address the gathering. He had hoped the occasion would briefly silence his critics and showcase France’s unity and resilience under his leadership. Macron's presidency now faces its gravest crisis after the government's collapse this week in a historic no-confidence vote that toppled Prime Minister Michel Barnier. The vote followed months of political gridlock after snap elections in June. Calls are now growing louder from opposition forces for Macron to resign. But he vowed Thursday to remain in office until the end of his term in 2027, and said he'll name a new prime minister within days. As France struggles with economic woes and social unrest, Notre Dame's rebirth celebrations form a stark contrast. Security will be high through the weekend, echoing measures taken during the Paris Olympics earlier this year. The Île de la Cité — the small island in the River Seine that is home to Notre Dame and the historic heart of Paris— is closed to tourists and non-residents. Police vans and barriers blocked cobblestoned streets in a large perimeter around the island, while soldiers in thick body armor and sniffer dogs patrolled embankments. A special security detail is following Trump. Public viewing areas along the Seine’s southern bank will accommodate 40,000 spectators, who can follow the celebrations on large screens. For many, Notre Dame’s rebirth is not just a French achievement but a global one — after the reopening, the cathedral is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, up from 12 million before the fire. Sylvie Corbet, Yesica Brumec, Marine Lesprit and Mark Carlson in Paris contributed. Associated Press religion coverage receives support through The AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) SimpSide, a pioneering force that launched a revolutionary all-in-one trading platform, addresses the pressing challenges in the world of financial trading DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To address the latest approach, SimpSide introduces an all-in-one trading platform that delivers an entirely new and efficient user experience. The platform is poised to redefine the users' experience in the trading universe. The platform's exceptional features and its functionalities, provide traders with a comprehensive toolkit to navigate the dynamic world of trading. By fostering transparency and security, SimpSide is committed to user security and privacy. The platform never stored users' information or shared it with third parties, except in extreme cases such as combating money laundering or terrorism. SimpSide's feature ensures that users retain complete control over their data and can trade with absolute peace of mind. In addition, the platform prioritizes speed and work efficiency. SimpSide eliminates the challenges with its state-of-the-art trading engine, which executes trades up to 12 times faster than traditional platforms. Even during times of extreme market volatility, SimpSide maintains a stable and fast performance. The platform's this initiative allows users to act on investment opportunities in real-time, without worrying about delays or missed chances. By leveraging innovative features, the unified platform provides simultaneous access to stocks, cryptocurrencies, and forex markets. The platform brings everything together in one seamless, user-friendly interface, enabling users to manage their entire portfolio from a single location. SimpSide's approach saves time and reduces costs but also significantly enhances the user experience. Furthermore, SimpSide's efficient commitment does not help in solving existing problems in financial markets; it's about setting new standards in the industry. By combining robust security measures, lightning-fast speed, and market integration, the trading platform empowers users to trade with confidence and convenience. SimpSide has emerged as a step toward a better future in financial trading. About SimpSide: SimpSide, a leading platform, concerns about data security, trade delays, or limited market access become a thing of the past. The platform has been designed to meet all the needs of modern traders and provide a seamless, worry-free investment experience. SimpSide is the answer to the challenges of today's financial markets and the bridge to a simpler, faster, and safer tomorrow. CONTACT: Official Website: Simpside.com X: SimpSide CEO: Pharxam Shahmirzadi Email: ... Ad d ress: Al Maktoum Street, Port Saeed, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Disclaimer: This content is provided by SimpSide. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: MENAFN28122024004107003653ID1109038231 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Jennifer Love Hewitt slams ageism

West Ham show support for hospitalized Antonio before Premier League matchNEW YORK (AP) — More shoppers than ever are on track to use ‘buy now, pay later’ plans this holiday season, as the ability to spread out payments looks attractive at a time when Americans still feel the lingering effect of inflation and already have record-high credit card debt. The data firm Adobe Analytics predicts shoppers will spend 11.4% more this holiday season using buy now, pay later than they did a year ago. The company forecasts shoppers will purchase $18.5 billion worth of goods using the third-party services for the period Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, with $993 million worth of purchases on Cyber Monday alone. Buy now, pay later can be particularly appealing to consumers who have low credit scores or no credit history, such as younger shoppers, because most of the companies providing the service run only soft credit checks and don’t report the loans and payment histories to the credit bureaus, unlike credit card companies. This holiday season, buy now, pay later users can also feel more confident if a transaction goes awry. In May, the CFPB said buy now, pay later company must adhere to other regulations that govern traditional credit, such as providing ways to demand refunds and dispute transactions. To use a buy now, pay later plan, consumers typically sign up with bank account information or a debit or credit card, and agree to pay for purchases in monthly installments, typically over eight weeks or more. The loans are marketed as requiring no or low interest, or only conditional fees, such as for late payment. Klarna, Afterpay and Affirm are three of the biggest buy now, pay later companies. But consumer advocates warn that shoppers who sign up for the payment plans using a credit card can be hit with more interest and fees. That's because individuals open themselves up to interest on the credit card payment, if it's carried month to month, on top of any late fees, interest, or penalties from the buy now, pay later loan itself. Experts advise against using a credit card to pay for these plans for this reason. Consumer watchdogs also say the plans lead consumers to overextend themselves because, for example, not paying full price up front leaves, in the shopper’s mind at least, more money for smaller purchases . They also caution consumers to keep careful track of using multiple buy now, pay later services, as the automatic payments can add up, and there is no central reporting, such as with a credit card statement. “Buy now, pay later can be an innovative tool for purchases you’re going to make anyway,” said Mark Elliott, chief customer officer at financial services company LendingClub. “The challenge is that it does fuel overspending.” For merchants, that’s part of the appeal. Retailers have found that customers are more likely to have bigger cart sizes or to convert from browsing to checking out when buy now, pay later is offered. One report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York cited research that found customers spend 20% more when buy now, pay later is available. “The reality is that the increased cost-of-living and inflation have put more people in a situation where they’re already relying on revolving credit,” Elliott said. “The psychographics of ‘buy now, pay later’ may be different — people don’t think of it as debt — but it is.” If a consumer misses a payment, they can face fees, interest, or the possibility of being locked out of using the services in the future. Emily Childers, consumer financial expert for personal-finance technology company Credit Karma, said that internal data shows member credit card balances are up more than 50% for Gen Z and millennial members since March 2022, when the Fed started raising interest rates. “Young people are entering this holiday season already in the red,” she said. “And, based on what we’re seeing in the data, they’re continuing to bury their heads in the sand and spend.” The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.US stocks fall but Alphabet jumps on Google discovery

NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Justin Thomas was long off the tee and made a few long putts on the back nine to overtake Scottie Scheffler with a 6-under 66 and build a one-shot lead Saturday over golf's best player going into the final round of the Hero World Challenge. Thomas is trying out a 46-inch driver — a little more than an inch longer than normal — that he previously used for practice at home to gain speed and length. He blasted a 361-yard drive to 8 feet on the par-4 seventh hole and led the field in driving distance. But it was a few long putts that put him ahead of Scheffler, who had a 69. Thomas was on the verge of falling two shots behind when he made an 18-foot par putt on the par-3 12th hole. On the reachable par-4 14th, he was in a nasty spot in a sandy area and could only splash it out to nearly 50 feet. He made that one for a most unlikely birdie, while behind him Scheffler muffed a chip on the 13th hole and made his lone bogey of a windy day. Scheffler never caught up to him, missing birdie chances on the reachable 14th and the par-5 15th. Thomas hit his approach to 3 feet for birdie on the 16th after a 343-yard drive. Scheffler made an 18-foot birdie putt on the 16th to close within one. Scheffler missed birdie chances on the last two holes from the 10-foot and 15-foot range, while Thomas missed an 8-foot birdie attempt at the last. “I had a stretch at 13, 14, 15 where I felt like I lost a shot or two there, but outside of that I did a lot of really good things today,” Scheffler said. Thomas hasn't won since the 2022 PGA Championship at Southern Hills, and a victory at Albany Golf Club wouldn't count as an official win. But the two-time major champion has made steady progress toward getting his game back in order. “I'm driving it great. I've had a lot of confidence with it,” Thomas said of his longer driver. “I feel like I've been able to put myself in some pretty good spots going into the green. I’m still not taking advantage of some of them as much as I would like, but that’s golf and we're always going to say that.” Thomas was at 17-under 199 and will be in the final group Sunday with Scheffler, who is trying to end his spectacular season with a ninth title. Tom Kim put himself in the mix, which he might not have imagined Thursday when he was 3 over through six holes of the holiday tournament. Kim got back in the game with a 65 on Friday, and then followed with 12 birdies for a 62. He had a shot at the course record — Rickie Fowler shot 61 in the final round when he won at Albany in 2017 — until Kim found a bunker and took two shots to reach the green in making a double bogey on the par-3 17th. Even so, he was only two shots behind. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley (68) was four back. “Feel like I’ve been seeing signs of improvement, which is what you want and that’s all I can do,” Thomas said. “I can’t control everybody else or what’s going on, I’ve just got to keep playing as good as I possibly can and hope that it’s enough come Sunday.” AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golfM-tron Industries Q3: Great Performance, But Next Year Comes With Uncertainties