
Allar puts critics on mute, keeps winning for Penn StateDULUTH — The boys hockey team from Mankato West High School arrived at the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center early Saturday morning, but they were missing something important for hockey teams — their stick bag. Coach Nate Olsen thought something strange must have happened. Maybe they never made it on the bus or somehow ended up on another team’s bus. ADVERTISEMENT The Scarlets had already lost two one-goal games, and they arrived at the Heritage Center for an 8 a.m. game against Anoka to conclude their participation at the annual Holiday Classic tournament. “It’s 7 in the morning, you’re getting the bus unloaded, you have everything there and all of a sudden, when you go to look for the stick bag — there’s no sticks,” Olsen said. The team did their “due diligence,” according to Olsen, but the equipment manager was “adamant” he put the bag on the bus the night before. Officials at the Heritage Center were able to pull up security camera footage to confirm he was correct. “We could see him taking the bag from the locker room and out the door and into the bus,” Olsen said. “Unfortunately, sometime from late yesterday afternoon to early this morning, our stick bag disappeared.” Staying at the downtown Holiday Inn, the Scarlets’ coach bus was parked overnight on West First Street. As they began to suspect theft, they reported the incident to the Duluth Police Department and gave an inventory of what was missing. Duluth police public information officer Mattie Hjelseth confirmed the report and said the investigation remains active. Officers were working to follow any leads, and no further information would be released on Saturday, she said. ADVERTISEMENT Officers saw a man walking in the 100 block of East Third Street with a few of the items just before 11 p.m., Hjelseth said in a statement early Sunday morning. The man told officers he found the items behind Chum. He didn’t match the suspect's description but was arrested on an unrelated warrant, Hjelseth said. Police are making arrangements to return the items. Heritage Center Director Jeff Stark put out a call for local help to find the sticks on social media. “We are aware of this theft of property and are assisting the team and law enforcement with trying to locate and recover their stolen sticks,” Stark wrote. “This incident happened while the team bus was parked overnight at their hotel. If you have any information, please contact the Duluth Police Department so we can try and obtain a positive outcome for the Mankato West players and families.” Olsen said he estimated there were 30 to 40 sticks in the bag worth a “rough estimate” of $10,000-$12,000. He said parents are also working with the list to cross-reference what was lost with what is missing, but either way it’s a “big deal,” particularly on the heels of the holiday season. “That’s usually a more expensive month for most families,” Olsen said. “Now try to come up with $6-800 to be ready to practice and play — even if there is a resolution on the back end, that resolution is not going to have cash in people’s pockets by Monday.” The referee scheduled to work the early game Saturday told Olsen he’s been officiating hockey for 37 years and had never seen anything like this, but the veteran coach said they were trying to stay positive. “The dust will settle and we’ll be OK long term,” Olsen said. “It’s just a unique circumstance we’re going to have to fight through and we’ll be better for it, but it’s quite a story — there’s no doubt about it.” ADVERTISEMENT This story was updated at 9:44 a.m. Dec. 19, with information about some of the items being recovered. It was originally posted at 8:23 p.m. Dec. 28.
Apple is poised to shake up the smartphone world once again with the rumored iPhone 17 Air, a device that pushes the boundaries of thinness. But this pursuit of sleek aesthetics seems to come at a significant cost, with reports suggesting compromises on core features like speakers, 5G capabilities, and potentially even the camera system. While the final design isn’t confirmed, the leaks paint a picture of Apple prioritizing form over function in a way that could alienate some consumers. Will this gamble pay off, or will the iPhone 17 Air be a case of style over substance? For years, Apple has steadily increased the thickness and weight of iPhones to accommodate larger batteries, more advanced camera systems, and improved durability. This trend, however, appears to be reversing with the iPhone 17 Air. Leaked reports suggest a device as thin as 6mm, significantly slimmer than even the iPhone 6 , which measured 6.9mm. This radical redesign aims to capture the attention of consumers seeking a lightweight and pocketable device, but the engineering challenges involved necessitate some controversial trade-offs. The Price of Slimness: Sacrifices and Compromises To achieve this ultra-thin profile, Apple is reportedly making some significant compromises: A Controversial Design Choice: The Return of the Physical SIM Tray Interestingly, while ditching features like mmWave 5G, Apple is reportedly bringing back the physical SIM card tray in the iPhone 17 Air. This is a curious move, considering the company’s push towards eSIM technology in recent models. It’s possible that this decision is driven by market demand, particularly in regions where eSIM adoption is still low. However, it also seems to contradict Apple’s usual trend of embracing new technologies and streamlining its designs. The Potential Benefits: A Lightweight and Elegant Device Despite these compromises, the iPhone 17 Air offers some compelling advantages: The Big Question: Is it Worth the Trade-offs? Ultimately, the success of the iPhone 17 Air will depend on whether consumers are willing to accept the compromises for the sake of a thinner and lighter device. For some, the lack of features like stereo speakers and mmWave 5G will be a dealbreaker. Others, however, may be willing to prioritize portability and aesthetics over these functionalities. My Take: As a tech enthusiast, I’m intrigued by the iPhone 17 Air’s bold design. However, I’m also concerned about the potential compromises. Personally, I value a good audio experience and fast 5G connectivity, so the removal of these features would be a significant drawback. I also rely heavily on my phone’s camera, so I’d be hesitant to sacrifice image quality for a thinner profile. I think Apple is taking a risk with the iPhone 17 Air. While there’s certainly a market for ultra-thin and stylish phones, it remains to be seen whether consumers will embrace a device that sacrifices key features in the pursuit of aesthetics. It will be interesting to see how this gamble plays out and whether it influences future iPhone designs.Los Angeles Chargers rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey, listed as questionable due to a shoulder issue, is expected to play Monday night against the visiting Baltimore Ravens, NFL Network reported. McConkey missed practice on Thursday and was limited on Friday and Saturday. Star linebacker Khalil Mack, who was questionable because of a groin injury and was a limited participant, also is expected to play, according to the report. The Chargers (7-3) made several moves Monday ahead of the game against the Ravens (7-4), placing tight end Hayden Hurst (hip) on injured reserve, activating cornerback Deane Leonard (hamstring) off IR, signing cornerback Eli Apple from the practice to the active squad, and elevating linebacker Caleb Murphy and safety Tony Jefferson for game day. McConkey, 23, has started nine of 10 games and has 43 receptions on 63 targets for 615 yards and four touchdowns. The Chargers drafted the 6-foot, 185-pound McConkey in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Georgia. Mack, 33, is a three-time first-team All-Pro, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection and the 2016 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He has started the nine games he has played and has 26 tackles and 4.5 sacks this season. For his career, Mack has 617 tackles, 106 sacks, 141 tackles for loss, 178 quarterback hits, three interceptions -- two returned for touchdowns -- 32 forced fumbles and 13 fumble recoveries in 160 games (159 starts). He has played for the Raiders (2014-17), Chicago Bears (2018-21) and Chargers. Hurst, 31, has started two of seven games in his first season with the Chargers. He has seven receptions on 12 targets for 65 yards. A first-round pick (25th overall) by Baltimore in the 2018 NFL Draft out of South Carolina, Hurst has 202 receptions for 1,967 yards and 15 TDs in 86 games (41 starts) for the Ravens (2018-19), Atlanta Falcons (2020-21), Cincinnati Bengals (2022), Carolina Panthers (2023) and Chargers. Apple, 29, has two tackles in three games this season, his first with the Chargers. The 10th overall selection in the 2016 draft, Apple has 383 career tackles and six interceptions in 101 games (82 starts) for the New York Giants (2016-18), New Orleans Saints (2018-19), Panthers (2020), Bengals (2021-22), Miami Dolphins (2023) and Chargers. Leonard, who turned 25 last Tuesday, has four tackles in four games this season. His 21-day practice window on IR opened Wednesday. --Field Level Media
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MCALLEN, Texas (AP) — Rio Grande Valley groups are suing the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, accusing the agency of bypassing state regulations by allowing SpaceX to temporarily discharge industrial water at its South Texas launch site without a proper permit. The groups — the South Texas Environmental Justice Network, along with the Carrizo/Comecrudo Nation of Texas, and Save RGV — filed the lawsuit Monday after the agency decided last month to allow SpaceX to continue its operations for 300 days or until the company obtained the appropriate permit. It is the latest in a string of lawsuits filed by environmental groups aimed at curbing the possible environmental impacts of SpaceX’s operations at Boca Chica on the southern tip of Texas. Earlier this year, TCEQ cited SpaceX for discharging water into nearby waterways after it was used to protect the launchpad from heat damage during Starship launches four times this year. SpaceX did not admit to any violation but agreed to pay a $3,750 penalty. Part of the penalty was deferred until SpaceX obtains the proper permit and on the condition that future water discharges meet pollution restrictions. RELATED COVERAGE Cuomo moves to sue a former aide who accused him of sexual harassment American Airlines settles lawsuit filed by 3 Black men who were ordered off a flight Jay-Z’s lawyers challenge rapper’s inclusion in rape lawsuit after accuser’s TV interview The environmental groups say that allowing SpaceX to continue is a violation of permitting requirements and that TCEQ is acting outside of its authority. “The Clean Water Act requires the TCEQ to follow certain procedural and technical requirements when issuing discharge permits meant to protect public participation and ensure compliance with Texas surface water quality standards,” Lauren Ice, the attorney for the three Rio Grande Valley organizations, said in a statement. “By bypassing these requirements, the Commission has put the Boca Chica environment at risk of degradation,” Ice said. A TCEQ spokesperson said the agency cannot comment on pending litigation. Some of the Rio Grande Valley groups are also involved in a lawsuit against the Federal Aviation Administration for allegedly failing to conduct an environmental review of SpaceX’s rocket test launch in April. The case remains pending in federal court. They also sued the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for agreeing to a land exchange that would give 43 acres of Boca Chica State Park to SpaceX in exchange for 477 acres adjacent to Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. SpaceX canceled the deal in November. ___ This story was originally published by The Texas Tribune and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Creighton point guard Steven Ashworth likely won't play Tuesday in the No. 21 Bluejays' game against San Diego State in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Creighton point guard Steven Ashworth likely won't play Tuesday in the No. 21 Bluejays' game against San Diego State in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Creighton point guard Steven Ashworth likely won’t play Tuesday in the No. 21 Bluejays’ game against San Diego State in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. Ashworth sprained his right ankle late in a loss to Nebraska on Friday, and coach Greg McDermott said he didn’t know how long he would be out. “He stepped on a guy’s foot on a 3-point shot and you’re defenseless in that situation,” McDermott said after the game. “He torqued it pretty good.” An athletic department spokesman said Monday that Ashworth’s status was doubtful for the game against the Aztecs. Ashworth is Creighton’s second-leading scorer with 16 points per game and leads the team with 6.4 assists per game. He also is 23 of 23 on free throws. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP collegebasketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball Advertisement
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — The New York Giants organization got exactly what it deserved in getting blown out by Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Giants were embarrassed in Sunday's 30-7 loss , taunted by Mayfield after a touchdown run just before halftime. And then they saw their fans walk out on them again when the Bucs extended their lead to 30-0 and sent New York (2-9) to its sixth straight loss. The losing streak is the longest for the Giants since 2019, when they dropped a franchise-record nine straight games to finish 4-12. That led to the firing of coach Pat Shurmur after two seasons. Third-year coach Brian Daboll is clearly in trouble, with the Giants guaranteed a second straight losing season. They were 6-11 in a 2023 season that featured a lot of injuries. Daboll, who denies he has lost the team, isn't the only one whose job is in jeopardy. General manager Joe Schoen is on the hot seat and so is this entire franchise, which is celebrating its 100th year. It's one thing to lose. It's quite another to give up, and that's what the organization did when it decided to bench Daniel Jones a week ago and then release him on Friday after the 27-year-old asked co-owner John Mara to let him walk away. While he wasn't playing well, Jones was the Giants' best quarterback. He gave them more a of chance to win than either Tommy DeVito or Drew Lock. Removing him from the picture was all but certain to make the Giants worse, even if it was a good business decision. If Jones was hurt and unable the pass his physical before the 2025 season, the team would have been on the hook for a $23 million cap hit. The problem is the players care about now. By getting rid of Jones and elevating DeVito to the starting role, the front office was telling the team it didn't care about winning with seven games left in the season. So the players gave a lackluster effort. Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence called the team soft. Rookie receiver Malik Nabers said he was sick of losing. Left tackle Jermaine Eluemunor said he saw a lack of effort by some players. What they all were saying was they were angry at being betrayed. Money is never more important than winning, and the Giants made that mistake. At this point in the season? Nothing. The offense once again. The Giants have scored a league-low 163 points, including only 60 in six games at MetLife Stadium, where they are winless this season. They have scored in double figures at home twice. Daboll's team has been held scoreless in the first half in three of 11 games and it has been held without a first-half touchdown seven times. Daboll said he will continue to call the offensive plays. S Tyler Nubin. The rookie has had a team-high 12 tackles in each of the last two games. His 81 tackles for the season are just two behind team leader Bobby Okereke. RB Tyrone Tracy. The rookie leads Giants running backs with 587 yards on 116 carries — a 5.1-yard average for the fifth-round pick. But holding onto the ball has been a big issue. Tracy's fumble in overtime cost New York a chance to win in Germany against Carolina. He also lost the ball in the third quarter at the Bucs 5-yard line with New York down 23-0. It earned him a seat on the bench. LT Jermaine Eluemunor (quad) and OLB Azeez Ojulari (toe) left Sunday's game in the first quarter. Chris Hubbard filled in at tackle and the Giants luckily got back DL Kayvon Thibodeaux this past week after he missed five games with a broken wrist. DeVito was banged up but Daboll expects him to start against the Cowboys. 10 — The Giants have gone 10 consecutive games without an interception, tying the NFL record held by the 1976-77 San Francisco 49ers and the 2017 Oakland — now Las Vegas — Raiders. The Giants and Raiders now share the single-season mark. A national showcase on Thanksgiving Day for the NFC-worst Giants at Dallas. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
NoneThe UN nuclear watchdog's board of governors passed a resolution chiding Iran's poor cooperation with the agency after hours of heated exchanges, diplomats told AFP late on Thursday, a move Tehran called "politically motivated". The censure motion brought by Britain, France, Germany and the United States at the International Atomic Energy Agency's 35-nation board follows a similar one in June. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.