winph 777 Putin apologizes for crash but stops short of saying Azerbaijani plane was shot downEven in this banner season for military academy football — complete with winning streaks, national rankings and a conference championship — the biggest goal remains the same. For Army: Beat Navy. For Navy: Beat Army. With the college football landscape changing at a furious rate, the significance of this matchup adds a dose of tradition to mid-December, amid all that talk about the transfer portal and the new expanded playoff. "We've had a good year. You make it a great year by winning this game coming up on Saturday. Frankly, that's just the way it goes around here," Army coach Jeff Monken said. "It's a game and a season really all of its own. We don't apologize for talking about it all the time. We talk about it all the time, and it's 365 days a year." Saturday in Landover, Maryland, is the 125th matchup between Army and Navy, and although these two programs are long removed from their days winning national titles and Heisman Trophies, this is a historic moment in the rivalry. The Black Knights and Midshipmen have combined for 19 wins this season, their highest total ever entering this game. Army (11-1) is ranked 19th in the AP poll after beating Tulane last week to win the American Athletic Conference — the first league title of any kind in the team's 134-year history. Navy (8-3) was ranked as well earlier this season after starting with six straight victories. "I knew we were going to be an improved football team," Navy coach Brian Newberry said. "Didn't know exactly what that was going to look like. I think certainly we've improved in a lot of different areas. I'm excited about the season we've had." This was Army's first season in the AAC, putting the Black Knights and Midshipmen in the same league, although their annual matchup is considered a nonconference game. For a while, there was a chance the teams could meet twice, with a conference championship clash coming before the regularly scheduled Army-Navy game, but that didn't happen. Their most prominent common opponent came from outside the league. Notre Dame handed both Navy and Army its first loss, beating the Midshipmen 51-14 and the Black Knights 49-14. Within the AAC, both teams beat Temple, UAB and East Carolina. Army beat Tulane and Rice and Navy lost to those two teams. Army and Navy also each won its nonconference game against Air Force. Those victories over Air Force mean this season's Commander-In-Chief's Trophy comes down to the Army-Navy game. It's the first time since 2017 that both teams enter this game with a shot at the trophy. It's also the first time since 2017 that both teams enter the game with bowl bids secured. Navy faces Oklahoma in the Armed Forces Bowl and Army takes on Marshall in the Independence Bowl. This year's Army-Navy game is at the Washington Commanders' home stadium in Landover. It was also held there in 2011. This is the first time the game has been in Maryland since Baltimore hosted it in 2016. Baltimore is also up next in 2025. Army quarterback Bryson Daily has 29 rushing touchdowns this season, which is tied for the FBS lead with running back Ashton Jeanty, Boise State's Heisman finalist. Only one QB in FBS history has run for more TDs in a season than Daily. That was Navy's Keenan Reynolds, with 31 in 2013. "You come here to play in this game. The biggest stage possible, millions of people watching and a sold-out NFL stadium. It's awesome," Daily said. "None of the games that happened before this matter. We're going into this game like we're 0-0, they're 0-0 because that's just how you have to come into this game." Navy's closest game this season — win or lose — was a 56-44 win over Memphis. The Midshipmen are the only FBS team that hasn't had a game this season decided by eight points or fewer. AP Sports Writer Stephen Whyno contributed to this report.

Excitement reverberated throughout School District 25 as K-5 learners participated in the global Hour of Code initiative during the week of Dec. 9-13. This event not only extends learning opportunities for K-5 learners in classrooms around the district’s 13 elementary schools but also emphasizes the district’s commitment to professional development for educators. The weeklong initiative underscores the importance of introducing young learners to the world of coding and programming, laying the foundation for 21st-century skills. At the same time, it provides a valuable opportunity for teachers to deepen their understanding of coding and its applications, ensuring they are equipped to integrate these skills effectively into their classrooms. A.J. Watson, director of elementary education, highlighted the dual benefits of the initiative, saying: “Professional development is essential for equipping teachers with the tools and confidence to integrate coding into their classrooms. Engaging learners through activities like the Hour of Code fosters critical skills that will be invaluable for their future success.” Extending these opportunities even further, the district partnered with the Idaho STEM Action Center to connect classrooms with industry experts. Through this collaboration, 59 teachers across the district worked alongside volunteers from leading organizations such as LA Semiconductor, Idaho Power, Idaho National Laboratory and Idaho State University. These partnerships enriched classroom activities, providing real-world context for learners while equipping educators with deeper insights into the practical applications of coding and programming. Empowering educators with coding professional development To ensure the success of this districtwide initiative, teachers participated in comprehensive training sessions that emphasized the importance of coding in today’s world while equipping them with practical tools to bring programming into their classrooms. This professional development was about more than just learning new technology — it was about empowering educators to confidently integrate coding and programming into lessons that inspire creativity and critical thinking in learners. Teachers explored code.org , a platform designed to align with technology standards and enhance student learning. They gained insight into why coding matters, discovering how it fosters problem-solving, logical thinking and a sense of accomplishment in young learners. With hands-on guidance, educators created lessons tailored to their learners’ grade levels, preparing them to introduce coding in an engaging, age-appropriate way. For those already familiar with coding basics, trainings scheduled in January 2025 will take things a step further by introducing robotics. Teachers will learn how to transfer programming knowledge into hands-on activities using age-appropriate robots for younger learners and more advanced challenges for upper-grade learners. These robotics lessons will help bridge the gap between theoretical skills and practical applications, making coding a tangible, exciting experience for learners. The focus of the professional development is not just about improving technical skills; it centers on giving educators the confidence to lead their learners into the future. By investing in our teachers, we’re ensuring they have the tools to inspire young minds and prepare them for a world where technology and innovation are key. For families and community members, this means your children are gaining skills that will serve them for a lifetime — critical thinking, creativity and the ability to adapt in a fast-changing world. Recognizing that every educator brings unique strengths and needs to the classroom, the district designs its professional development approach to be flexible and personalized. Teachers receive one-on-one training, ensuring they have a clear understanding of how to use coding technology and apply it effectively with their learners. This individualized support allows educators to ask questions, practice new skills and build confidence in a setting tailored to their learning style. To further enhance the experience, Janelle Arvas, who is on the leading edge of coding in her role as one of the district’s two technology training specialists, worked alongside teachers in the classroom. By leading the initial coding lessons with teacher participation, she created a collaborative and supportive environment where educators could observe, learn, and actively engage with learners in real-time. Arvas emphasized the importance of integrating computer science and programming into elementary education to develop well-rounded students. “These initiatives empower teachers with the knowledge and confidence to teach essential skills while inspiring young learners through programs like the Hour of Code. The focus of this initiative is to provide professional development to help teachers effectively nurture future innovators while positioning the district as a leader in coding and computer science Idaho education.” A statewide emphasis on computer science Idaho Gov. Brad Little emphasized the importance of initiatives like these by proclaiming Dec. 9-13 as Computer Science Education Week in Idaho. At a recent school event in Boise, the governor urged citizens to participate in the Hour of Code, noting that introducing students to computer science early fosters critical thinking skills and real-world experiences that will serve them throughout their lives. The Hour of Code, founded in 2013, is a global movement that has reached tens of millions of students in more than 180 countries. Events during Computer Science Education Week provide a one-hour introduction to coding through engaging tutorials. This year’s celebration hosted nearly 120,000 events worldwide, including about 38,000 in the U.S., with Idaho alone hosting over 300 events. Angela Hemingway, executive director of the Idaho STEM Action Center, highlighted the significance of coding as "the fourth R — reading, writing, arithmetic and algorithms." She noted that computer science is integral to modern life and is one of the most in-demand college degrees. Furthermore, STEM careers, particularly those in computing, represent the fastest-growing segment of job opportunities in Idaho. Impact beyond the week Participation in the Hour of Code not only introduces coding concepts to learners; it is a strategic effort to advance professional growth and classroom innovation. Teachers developed new skills that extended beyond the event, enabling them to integrate coding and robotics into their lessons throughout the school year. This combination of hands-on student engagement and robust teacher training underscores the district’s commitment to preparing young learners for a technology-driven future. As learners tackled coding challenges and explored robotics, they weren’t just learning — they were dreaming, creating and imagining new possibilities. Meanwhile, their teachers were gaining the tools and confidence to lead the way. Together, this initiative is setting the stage for a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.Army-Navy game has added buzz

Should AI be used to resurrect extinct species like the Neanderthal? | Mohammad HosseiniConnor Cruise shared some rare glimpses of his personal personal life on social media. The 29-year-old, who is the son of Tom Cruise and his ex-wife Nicole Kidman, usually stays away from spotlights and does not show his personal life on his social media accounts. Connor shared a selfie of himself while playing golf with friends at the Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, on his Instagram account on Sunday In the photo, Connor and his pals can be seen beaming smiles and giving a thumbs up on camera. The 29-year-old rocked a sporty wear, donning a blue striped polo, a golf cap, a pair of sneakers, one glove, blue-mirrored sunglasses and blue hoodie. It is pertinent to mention that Tom and Nicole adopted Connor in 1995. they also share 31-year-old Becca. Although Connor lives a private life now, he has acted in various films, including Seven Pounds (2007) and Red Down (2012). For those unversed, Tom and Nicole divorced in 2001.

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquil Barrett is rejoining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquil Barrett is rejoining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquil Barrett is rejoining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs signed the two-time Super Bowl champion on Saturday, while also announcing safety Jordan Whitehead was activated from injured reserve ahead of Sunday’s home game against the Carolina Panthers. Barrett spent five seasons with Tampa Bay from 2019 to 2023. He led the NFL with a franchise-record 19 1-2 sacks in his first year with the Bucs, then helped the team win its second Super Bowl title the following season. In all, Barrett started 70 games with Tampa Bay, amassing 45 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and three interceptions. He was released last winter in a salary cap move, signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins in free agency, then abruptly announced his retirement on social media before the start of training camp in July. Barrett, who also won a Super Bowl during a four-season stint with the Denver Broncos, decided to unretire last month. He signed with the Bucs after clearing waivers earlier in the week. Whitehead has missed the past four games with a pectoral injury. His return comes of the heels of the Bucs placing safety Christian Izien on IR with a pectoral injury. On Saturday, the Bucs also activated rookie wide receiver Kameron Johnson from IR and elevated punter Jack Browning to the active roster from the practice squad. ___ NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl AdvertisementNone

Las Vegas (3-12) at New Orleans (5-10) Sunday, 1 p.m. EST, Fox BetMGM NFL odds: Raiders by 1 Against the spread: Raiders 6-9; Saints 6-9 Series record: Tied 7-7-1 Last meeting: Saints beat Raiders 24-0 on Oct. 30, 2023, at New Orleans. Last week: Raiders beat Jaguars 19-14 ; Saints lost to Packers 34-0 . Raiders offense: overall (28), rush (32), pass (14), scoring (29) Raiders defense: overall (12), rush (13), pass (9), scoring (27) Saints offense: overall (19), rush (13), pass (23), scoring (22) Saints defense: overall (30), rush (30), pass (28), scoring (T17) Turnover differential: Raiders minus-17; Saints minus-1 After his 11 catches for 99 yards last week, rookie tight end Brock Bowers has a team-leading 101 catches for a team-high 1,067 yards and four TDs. As one of few healthy skill players left on New Orleans' offense, tight end Juwan Johnson has become more prominent in the game plan. The former Penn State and Oregon receiver, who was converted to a tight end during his third NFL season (2022), now ranks second on the club in catches this season with 38 and yards receiving with 402, while his three TD catches are tied for third on the team. Bowers will test New Orleans' coverage scheme. Those Saints responsible for containing Bowers could include linebackers Demario Davis and Peter Werner, as well as safeties Will Harris and Tyrann Mathieu. Raiders guard Jordan Meredith (ankle), linebacker Kana'I Mauga (calf) and guard Jackson Powers-Jordan (quadriceps/ankle) were all listed on Las Vegas' injury report this week. The Saints listed nine players on their injury report this week, including QB Derek Carr (left hand), running back Alvin Kamara (groin), center Erik McCoy (elbow) and guard Lucas Patrick (knee), who all missed practice time. Those limited at practice this week included defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd (eye), defensive end Payton Turner (ankle), receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (chest) and Johnson ( foot). The Raiders have won two of the past three, while the Saints have won four of the past six. The teams have met eight times previously in New Orleans, with the Saints winning four and the Raiders winning three. The clubs' first ever meeting was a 21-all tie in New Orleans in 1971 at the old Tulane Stadium. Raiders QB Aidan O'Connell completed 24 of 38 passes (63.2 percent) for 257 yards without an interception last week. He has not thrown an interception in three of his past four games. ... Bowers last week became the second rookie in NFL history (joining Odell Beckham Jr.) and the third TE ever (joining Zach Ertz and Evan Engram) with 10 or more catches in four games in a season. Bowers’ 1,067 yards receiving leads all NFL tight ends this season and he needs just 10 more yards to surpass Hall of Famer Mike Ditka (1,076 in 1961) for the most by rookie TE. ... Veteran RB Ameer Abdullah had season-high 85 scrimmage yards (47 receiving, 38 rushing) and a TD rushing last week, giving him a TD in two straight games. He needs 75 scrimmage yards for his third season with 500 (along with 2015 and 2017). ... RB Alexander Mattison had 56 scrimmage yards and a TD rushing in Week 16. He caught a TD pass in his only career game in New Orleans, when he was with Minnesota in 2022. ... DT Adam Butler has a tackle for loss in five of his past six games and at least half a sack in three of his past four. ... DE K’lavon Chaisson had a sack last week, giving him a tackle for loss in four straight games. ... S Isaiah Pola-Mao had nine tackles and the first two forced fumbles of his career last week. ... Saints rookie QB Spencer Rattler passed for 153 yards and rushed for 28 yards in Week 16, but also was intercepted and lost a fumble. He is 0-4 as an NFL starter. ... Versatile veteran RB Alvin Kamara, who hopes to return from a groin injury before this season ends, needs 7 scrimmage yards for his fourth 1,500-yard season and needs 50 yards rushing for his first 1,000-yard rushing season. ... WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling has a TD catch in three of his past four home games. TE Foster Moreau had 91 catches, 1,107 yards receiving and 12 TD catches in 61 games with the Raiders from 2019 to 2022. Moreau has 25 catches for 335 yards and four TDs this season. ... DE Cameron Jordan has a tackle for loss in each of his past two games. ... DE Carl Granderson has sack in two of his past three home games. ... DT Khalen Saunders had career-high two passes defensed and a tackle for loss last week. ... DT Bryan Bresee, a 2023 first-round draft choice out of Clemson, has a career-best 7 1/2 sacks in 2024. ... DE Chase Young has at least half a sack and a tackle for loss in three of his past four home games. ... LB Demario Davis has 114 tackles in 2024 and is one of three players (along with Eric Kendricks and Bobby Wagner) with 100 or more tackles in each of the past eight seasons. ... S Tyrann Mathieu has 99 passes defensed. He's intercepted a pass in each of his past two games against the Raiders. Bowers is a good bet to have another big game against a defense that ranks 28th in the NFL against the pass. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Unretired two-time Pro Bowl LB Shaquil Barrett signs to resume career with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

I visited UK’s strictest pub... there’s a no phone policy & coats go on a hook – but one rule went too far

As science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. Mohammad Hosseini But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA and genome editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Hosseini is an assistant professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He wrote this for The Chicago Tribune . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!Raiders and Saints meet with prominent players nearing statistical milestones

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — A man recently arrested by the Scottsdale Police Department is facing sex trafficking charges after he was allegedly found with a juvenile girl at a local hotel. Police began investigating George K. Mosley, 31, back in July for allegations of fraud when officers observed Mosley with a teenage girl. Police said officers learned the girl was a missing juvenile from out of state. VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: La policía de Scottsdale arresta a un hombre que acompañaba a una joven desaparecida The girl was reunited with her family and police continued investigating the suspect. Investigators believe Mosley had been engaged in sex trafficking the girl in multiple states. Once enough evidence was established, Mosley was arrested on Dec. 10. Police said the suspect is facing 20 felony counts of child sex trafficking, sexual conduct with a minor, and money laundering. RELATED: Records: Victim shot to death in Avondale after taking kids to see Santa RELATED: Massage therapist sentenced to prison for abusing clients in East Valley Watch 12News for free You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12+ app! The free 12+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV . 12+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona. Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives. Roku : Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX." Amazon Fire TV : Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12+ app to add to your account , or have the 12+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.Army-Navy game has added buzzKansas City Chiefs fears Patrick Mahomes star teammate suffered injury in Steelers win in major Super Bowl blow

Should AI be used to resurrect extinct species like the Neanderthal? | Mohammad HosseiniTo lure Juan Soto, Mets created a video of his statue outside Citi Field next to Tom Seaver's NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Mets wanted Juan Soto to know his future with them could be set in stone. When the free agent outfielder traveled to owner Steve Cohen’s house in Beverly Hills, California, for a presentation last month, the team unveiled a video that included an image of a future Soto statue outside Citi Field, next to the one erected of franchise great Tom Seaver. Soto put on a New York Mets jersey and cap for the first time Thursday after his record $765 million, 15-year contract was finalized and talked about what made the difference in his decision. Bill Belichick 'always wanted' to give college coaching a try. Now he will at North Carolina New North Carolina football coach Bill Belichick said he had long been interested in coaching in the college ranks. But it had never worked out until now, as he takes over the Tar Heels program. Belichick led the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl titles during a 24-year run there that ended last year. Belichick's five-year deal pays him $10 million in base and supplemental salary per year. It is guaranteed only for the first three years, including for buyout purposes. There is also up to $3.5 million in annual bonuses. NFL world reacts with excitement, surprise, questions after Bill Belichick is hired to coach UNC Bill Belichick is already the most decorated coach in NFL history. His next challenge is college football after he agreed to a five-year deal to coach at North Carolina. The reaction around the NFL ranged from excitement at seeing him back on the sideline to disbelief. Some of his former players believe his skill set will work at any level. Others caution that the players he brings into UNC should prepare to have their limits tested. Travis Hunter, the 2-way standout for Colorado, is the AP college football player of the year BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Colorado two-way standout Travis Hunter is The Associated Press college football player of the year. Hunter received 26 of the 43 votes from a panel of AP Top 25 voters. Boise State tailback Ashton Jeanty finished second with 16 votes, and Arizona State running back Cameron Skattebo received one vote. A throwback player who rarely left the field, Hunter had 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns as a receiver. He had four interceptions and 11 passes defensed as a shutdown corner. Hunter helped the the 20th-ranked Buffaloes to a 9-3 record and an appearance in the Alamo Bowl against BYU. Wander Franco's sex abuse trial has been postponed 5 months PUERTO PLATA, Dominican Republic (AP) — The trial against Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, who has been charged with sexually abusing a minor, sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor, and human trafficking, has been postponed until June 2, 2025. Dominican judge Yacaira Veras postponed the hearing Thursday at the request of prosecutors because of the absence of several key witnesses in the case. Franco’s lawyers asked the court to reconsider the postponement, arguing Franco must report to spring training in mid-February. The judge replied that Franco is obligated to continue with the trial schedule and his conditional release from detainment. LeBron James ruled out of Lakers' game at Minnesota on Friday with foot soreness LOS ANGELES (AP) — LeBron James has been ruled out of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game at Minnesota on Friday night due to soreness in his left foot. James will miss his second straight game when the Lakers return from a four-day break to face the Timberwolves. The top scorer in NBA history was away from the team this week with an excused absence attributed to “personal reasons,” coach JJ Redick said Wednesday. It’s unclear whether James will even make the quick round trip to Minnesota before the Lakers’ next game at home against Memphis on Sunday. Team claims NASCAR rescinded approval to buy new charter unless federal antitrust suit is dropped CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A new court filing says NASCAR rejected Front Row Motorsports’ agreement to purchase a charter from Stewart-Haas Racing unless the team and 23XI Racing dropped their federal antitrust lawsuit against the stock car series. Front Row and 23XI rejected NASCAR's new revenue sharing agreement and have gone to court. NASCAR now says it will move forward in 2025 with 32 chartered teams and eight open spots, with offers on charters for Front Row and 23XI rescinded and the SHR charters in limbo. Texas Rangers and RHP Nathan Eovaldi finalize $75 million, 3-year contract DALLAS (AP) — Nathan Eovaldi and the Texas Rangers have finalized a $75 million, three-year contract that keeps him in their starting rotation. The right-hander was the winning pitcher for Texas in its 2023 World Series clincher, and the Rangers said one of their primary goals this offseason was to re-sign Eovaldi. The sides agreed to financial terms earlier this week, pending a successful physical. To open a roster spot for Eovaldi, right-hander Roansy Contreras was designated for assignment. Eovaldi became a free agent Nov. 4 after declining a vested $20 million player option for the 2025 season. Rape investigation that Swedish media say focused on Kylian Mbappé has been closed STOCKHOLM (AP) — Swedish prosecutors say they have dropped a rape investigation that was launched in connection with soccer star Kylian Mbappé’s visit to Stockholm in October. In a statement, lead investigator Marina Chirakova says there is not enough evidence to continue the investigation into the allegation at a hotel. Prosecutors never publicly named the suspect in the investigation but some Swedish media reported it was Mbappé. The Real Madrid striker visited Stockholm in October during a break in the Spanish league. At the time, Mbappé’s legal team dismissed those reports as false. 2034 World Cup visitors will live in 'a bubble' and not see real life, Saudi rights activist says LONDON (AP) — A Saudi human rights activist says soccer fans visiting Saudi Arabia for the 2034 World Cup will live in a “bubble” that doesn't reflect real life there. Lina al-Hathloul is a London-based activist whose sister was jailed in Saudi Arabia then banned from travel after campaigning to end a ban on women driving. When FIFA confirmed the kingdom as the 2034 tournament host on Wednesday its president Gianni Infantino acknowledged “the world will be watching” for positive social change. Al-Hathloul says western people “will be very safe” at the World Cup but "will see a bubble of what Saudi Arabia is.”ehind the scenes of 's creative process, a recently surfaced video has sparked lively discussions among fans and critics alike. The clip, on December 13, shows the 14-time Grammy winner practicing sultry dance moves with burlesque icon for the music video, a track from her 2022 double-platinum album . While the collaboration seemed promising, the behind-the-scenes footage revealed a efforts to master Von Teese's signature moves. In the video, Von Teese coaches Swift on how to perform her iconic "Martini Glass" dance, including a moment where she . However, things take a comical turn when the stocking gets caught on Swift's foot, resulting in an audible tear. Looking visibly flustered, Swift exclaimed, " ," before clutching her chest and apologizing with, " ." The candid moment, while endearing to some fans, caught others off guard Fans divided over her candid moment The resurfaced clip, shared by an account named glamilyofficial on December 18, has since . Some commenters expressed , questioning her role as a role model for younger audiences. " " one person asked, while another commented, " " Others criticized Swift's demeanor during the practice session, despite her years of experience in the entertainment industry. One commenter remarked, " ." Another chimed in with, " " However, , celebrating her authenticity and humor in the face of an unfamiliar challenge. One Instagram user observed, " " Others appreciated the glimpse into the dynamic between Swift and Von Teese, noting how it showcased a more relatable side of the pop icon. The video has ultimately become a talking point about Swift's charm and relatability, even in less polished moments.