LINCOLN — There’s a cost to Nebraska football embracing its 34-year tradition of Black Friday games. A chance to reflect much, for one thing. Or celebrate, for another. NU on Saturday ended a 10-game losing streak to Wisconsin and a seven-season bowl drought in one fell swoop, but when the Huskers reconvened Monday, a short week of preparation for a nasty rival stared them right in the face. “We haven’t even had a team meeting since the game,” Nebraska coach Matt Rhule said at his weekly press conference. “We walked in today, 8 o’clock, and it’s Iowa special teams (prep). No time for ‘hey, great job.’ There’s no time for it.” Bad memories still linger in the Huskers’ minds, though. The Hawkeyes have won eight of the last nine in this series — six of those by one score, including last year, a 13-10 gut punch that kept Nebraska from making a bowl. If Iowa blew kisses at NU in 2019 on a game-winning field goal, they did something else in 2023. “Their players are waving at our guys — ‘hey, have a good Christmas!’ — that was painful,” Rhule said. “That was really painful. So I don’t doubt that our guys will be ready. But their guys will be ready. It really just comes down to football.” Win the turnover battle. Block and tackle well. Make plays when they’re available. Execute the way offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen wants. To focus on those things — without the psychological pressure of a long December hanging over the program’s head — is a nice bonus to clinching the bowl before heading to Kinnick Stadium for a 6:30 p.m. game on NBC. The temps will be in the 20s; Nebraska, practicing outside most of the year, is prepared for that. Iowa’s offense, though fitted with a new coordinator, resembles a more effective version of the Hawkeyes’ recent attacks, with a blend of power and zone runs executed by running back Kaleb Johnson, second nationally in rush yards. Iowa ranks first in the Big Ten — and 13 th nationally — in rushing yards per game. “They’ve run some people off the field just by running the football down their throat,” Rhule said. So, Iowa is Iowa is Iowa. It was Iowa 10 years ago, when it lost 37-34 to Nebraska two days before the firing of Bo Pelini. It was Iowa two years ago on the day it lost to NU just as the school was finalizing a deal for Rhule. And at 7-4 overall — 5-3 in the Big Ten — this season, it is Iowa now. Nebraska, on the other hand, moved from a program with no bowl berths this decade to at least one this winter. It saw, in its win over Wisconsin, a work ethic rewarded, a process confirmed and a rare midseason offensive coordinator hire vindicated. “They know that they can do it, they know they’re capable of it,” Rhule said. “So let’s continue to do it. That’s the expectation now. What was once possible, now we know we can do it, so let’s do it.” Rhule anticipates Nebraska’s roster will be healthier after the flu ran through the team last week, and NU’s offense now manages playing time the way the Husker defensive coaches have — by who practices well during the week. That translated into backups who got more snaps against Wisconsin than other games this season — Emmett Johnson, Luke Lindenmeyer and Nate Boerkircher — and who stood more often on the sideline. That’s Holgorsen’s effect, to some degree, and it’s the new price of success. "Dana's brought a standard, offensively, that, I'm not going to say we didn't have before,” Rhule said, “but he has the experience to kind of follow through on it that will be good for us all to learn from.” The lessons learned in a game are the lessons learned in a season, Rhule said. The week is short, the prep is detailed and Iowa is Iowa. Who might Nebraska be? “We have to make sure the football’s right,” Rhule said. Get local news delivered to your inbox!BRUSSELS , Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In an upcoming EU Reporter interview , M. Shigeo Katsu , Founding President of Nazarbayev University (NU) and a key architect of Kazakhstan's education reforms, will address the escalating scandal surrounding financial mismanagement at the country's flagship higher education institution. The crisis gained public attention following the announcement of the state audit results of Nazarbayev University. The revelations have sparked widespread concerns about transparency and oversight at one of Central Asia's most prestigious universities. Adding to the controversy are allegations of financial mismanagement involving the New Generation Foundation, the Jusan Group — entities originally established to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of NU and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS). Questions have also been raised about the state of affairs at NU's Social Development Fund. Reports suggest that funds may have been misappropriated, triggering outrage from students, educators, and civil society. In response, a student initiative group from Nazarbayev University issued an open letter demanding the release of both the state audit and NU's internal audit of the Social Development Fund. The letter also calls for greater accountability, enhanced transparency, and the protection of students' rights. This appeal reflects mounting frustration with the university's leadership and a growing demand for immediate corrective action. Shigeo Katsu's interview will shed light on these unfolding developments. As a former leader of NU, Katsu is uniquely positioned to analyze the root causes of the crisis, critique the university's response, and discuss the broader implications for Kazakhstan's education sector. The full interview can be found here: https://www.eureporter.co/kazakhstan-2/2024/12/23/the-battle-for-nazarbayev-universitys-future-shigeo-katsu-on-financial-mismanagement-and-accountability/ The Battle for Nazarbayev University's Future: Shigeo Katsu on Financial Mismanagement and Accountability In light of recent controversies surrounding the financial governance of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS), an open letter from concerned students has surfaced, addressing the troubling mismanagement of funds and alleged conflicts of interest. The letter highlights a series of financial decisions that led to the unraveling of key institutions meant to ensure the long-term stability of NU and NIS. The students are particularly concerned about the fate of the Jusan Group and the Nazarbayev Fund (NGF), which were once positioned to secure the financial future of these two leading educational institutions. Instead, they allege that significant funds were misappropriated and whole organizations lost, leading to the collapse of what was once a promising financial structure. In response, Shigeo Katsu , the Founding President of Nazarbayev University, has also written an open letter , received by EU Reporter, addressing the ongoing crisis and providing his perspective on the unfolding situation. In his letter, Katsu outlines the rationale of engagement in the financial sector and the erosion of the initial vision for NU, highlighting the role of key financial institutions like Jusan Bank and the NGF in securing a stable future for the university and NIS. He draws attention to the series of decisions that led to the loss of the former and calls for urgent remedial actions to prevent further damage to the institutions' credibility and financial stability . In this exclusive interview with EU Reporter , Shigeo Katsu , the Founding President of Nazarbayev University, sheds light on these pressing issues. He discusses the audit findings, the role of Jusan Bank , and what must be done to restore trust and secure the future of NU and NIS. Bio: Mr. Shigeo Katsu is the Founding President of Nazarbayev University. He held the position of President from December 2010 until June 2023 . He was Chair of the Board of Trustees of an affiliated secondary school system, the Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools, and of the University's hospital system. Prior to the assignments in Kazakhstan , over the course of a 30-year career at the World Bank, Mr. Shigeo Katsu held various positions including leading financial sector reform support for China , Director for Cote d'Ivoire , and Vice President for Europe and Central Asia . After his retirement from the World Bank, he served for a few years on the US board of a youth-oriented international development NGO. Between 2011 and 2015 he was an Advisory Panel member of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO). Questions: - We have exclusively published your open letter and anticipate that it will generate a significant response. What drove you to write it, particularly in light of the misuse of funds intended to ensure the long-term financial stability of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS)? The decision to write the open letter was not made lightly. It was driven by a profound sense of responsibility to the students, faculty, and broader community of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS). These institutions were established with a vision to create world-class educational hubs in Kazakhstan and establish a center of excellence for academic research. Ensuring their financial independence and long-term stability is a core requirement to achieve the two institutions' mission. However, recent developments revealed through state and internal audits have exposed serious breaches of trust. The misuse of funds from entities like the University's Social Development Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group directly threatens the sustainability of NU and NIS. These funds were meant to build up and guarantee the financial security of the institutions. Instead, we now see signs of embezzlement, mismanagement, and a concerning lack of accountability. The role played by key figures like the directors and executives of NGF, of Aslan Sarinzhipov (Executive Vice President of NU, a former Minister of Education) and Kadisha Dairova (Vice President for Student Affairs and International Cooperation, Nazarbayev University) only adds to the gravity of the situation. By writing the letter, my goal was to bring transparency to the issue and to mobilize public attention and international scrutiny. NU and NIS were founded on principles of meritocracy, transparency, and academic freedom. If we allow these values to be compromised, we risk undoing more than a decade of progress. The letter serves as a call for accountability, reform, and most importantly, protection of the future of Kazakhstan's youth. - Many students and alumni of NU have expressed their concern over the lowering of admission standards and the shift away from international standards. How do you assess these changes, and do you see them as diverging from the original vision for NU? NU was conceived as a model of excellence , designed to meet international standards in research, teaching, and governance. One of its founding principles was merit-based admission , which ensured that students were selected solely based on their ability and potential. This meritocratic foundation was not only an academic principle but a reflection of NU's mission to transform Kazakhstan's education system. Students, alumni, faculty and staff have worked hard to build NU's name. Now students, alumni and parents are rightly concerned that the lowering of admission standards undermines this mission and risks eroding the university's reputation both domestically and internationally. Such changes create the perception that NU is moving away from its original vision of being a world-class institution. To restore confidence, NU must reaffirm its commitment to international standards, transparency, and academic rigor. Reverting to merit-based admissions and prioritizing excellence will send a clear message that the institution remains steadfast in its mission. In the Open Letter, I stated that in theory, a policy of opening the entry door wider, but then be resolutely strict in terms of progression and graduation based on academic integrity and merit could work. There are some cases globally. However, it can only work if there is a full commitment to integrity and merit, openness and transparency, and NU's original values are upheld. But unfortunately, what I have observed and heard about recent developments at NU does not make me optimistic. While administration is supposedly in a belt-tightening mode, new senior positions were created and filled with scant regard for a proper hiring process and qualification. Conflict of interest and restrictions on hiring family members have been discarded. These are just a few of the institutional changes that will inevitably bleed over into the academic fabric as well. Is this the example that senior management wants to present to our students? - Do you believe the current situation, where the financial foundations like the Social Development Fund and New Generation Foundation were mismanaged, reflects a broader crisis within Kazakhstan's governance and democracy? Absolutely, but to be fair, this corporate governance crisis is not just limited to Kazakhstan . The findings of the internal audit conducted by NU on the Social Development Fund (SDF) reveal a systemic absence of check and balances and accountability that extends beyond these institutions. Mismanagement and theft, such as those involving Aslan Sarinzhipov , have not only undermined NU and NIS but also shaken public trust in Kazakhstan's leadership. The financial institutions linked to NU and NIS—Nazarbayev Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group — were designed to guarantee long-term financial stability for education in Kazakhstan , securing the futures of NU and NIS for decades. However, NGF and Jusan Group's systematic depletion and dismantling highlight the country's struggle with accountability and the need for deep structural reform. This mismanagement reflects broader governance failings—particularly a lack of oversight, transparency, and mechanisms to prevent conflicts of interest. I cannot pronounce myself on the current status of the NF, but I would not be surprised if one discovers similar shortcomings there as well. I had called for an audit for some time until my departure but was not successful. The impact extends beyond education, affecting the economic and social fabric of Kazakhstan . Addressing these issues requires not just reforms within these organizations but also a renewed commitment to governance, accountability, and emphasis on establishing the rule of law. - With the financial stability once promised by entities like the NGF now in jeopardy, how do you envision NU's future without those foundational guarantees? The original intent of the Nazarbayev Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group was to provide NU and NIS with long-term financial stability. These entities were carefully designed to ensure that Kazakhstan's leading educational institutions could eventually operate in a manner less affected by state budget fluctuations. However, as the audits reveal, these institutions have been systematically mismanaged and looted, jeopardizing the financial future of NU and NIS. NU's survival and success now depend on a bold and transparent strategy. The first step is to rebuild trust with the public, students, and alumni by publishing the findings of both the state audit of NU and the internal audit of SDF. Then, those responsible are held accountable. Financially, NU must re-establish a diversified funding model. This includes rebuilding its endowments and enhancing additional revenue streams, such as a logical and sound tuition policy, executive education and collaboration with industry and business in the form of contract research. Transparency and governance reform will be key to attract donors and investors who believe in NU's mission and potential. - The Supreme Audit Chamber of Kazakhstan , in its state audit, reported the mismanagement of 73.5 billion tenge at Nazarbayev University , as well as allegations of half a billion tenge being used illegally. What is your opinion on this, and how should the university address governance and corruption issues? I have not had the opportunity to access the state audit report, thus it is difficult to comment. If the cited amount in mismanagement of 73.5 billion tenge over six years is true, it is scandalous. However, we do not know what the auditors' definition and criteria of mismanagement is. So, let's first find out what the report actually says. What is clear, however, is the outcome of a 2023 internal audit of NU's Social Development Fund (SDF) , and it is sobering. This SDF audit reveals a blatant disregard of corporate governance principles, where individuals entrusted with university resources prioritized personal gain over the mission of NU. The audit revealed that SDF management led by current NU Executive Vice President Aslan Sarinzhipov constructed an intricate web of subsidiary entities, including abroad, to systematically evade the oversight and control of the University. Funds ( over 14 billion tenge ) meant to assist students and faculty were used for personal gains of Aslan Sarinzhipov and questionable deals. Unfortunately, NU senior officials such as Vice President Kadisha Dairova participated in such schemes. When I voiced my concern earlier over the developments at NU, it is largely because of the track record of senior officials there. For NU to move forward, it must adopt zero-tolerance policies for corruption, demand accountability from those responsible, and reform its governance structures to ensure transparency. - Why do some claim there is a lack of funds for NU and NIS, despite the promises of financial stability from their endowment funds? The claim of a lack of funds is a direct consequence of the systematic looting of resources from the New Generation Foundation and Jusan Group. These entities were explicitly designed to contribute to NU and NIS' long-term financial sustainability against the backdrop of reduced state funding. However, as I described in my Open Letter, these innovative financial structures have been undermined by mismanagement, and outright theft. For instance: Rebuilding financial stability will require recovering stolen assets, reforming governance structures, and restoring public trust through full transparency and accountability. - Given the scale of financial mismanagement, what steps are necessary to ensure accountability for those involved, including senior officials? Accountability must begin with transparency. First, all findings from the audits should be made public, and independent investigations should be conducted to identify those responsible. No individual, regardless of rank or influence, should be above scrutiny. Second, legal consequences must follow where wrongdoing is found. Kazakhstan's legal system must demonstrate its independence and commitment to justice by prosecuting those who exploited these funds. Finally, governance reforms are essential. NU and its associated entities must implement stricter checks and balances, including external audits, whistleblower protections, and oversight committees with independent members. These steps are not just about rectifying past mistakes—they're about ensuring a future where such mismanagement cannot happen again. - The audit findings were just the beginning of uncovering deeper issues. Is there more information you can share about how these financial foundations were exploited and what this means for the future of NU and NIS? The patterns that have emerged—opaque transactions, conflicts of interest, and questionable settlements—are deeply troubling. For instance, the transfer of assets to private hands under unclear terms raises red flags about the intentions behind such decisions. This exploitation puts the futures of NU and NIS at risk. These institutions were designed to be financially independent, insulated from political and economic volatility. The weakening of their financial foundations erodes their ability to deliver on their missions and betrays the trust of the Kazakhstani people, who have invested in these institutions through their taxes. The way forward requires not just recovering lost assets but rebuilding the governance systems that allowed this exploitation to occur. - Nazarbayev University was founded with a mission to serve as a model for higher education in Kazakhstan , supported by funds like those from the Nazarbayev Fund and New Generation Foundation. What was your original vision for the university, and how did these funds play a critical role in realizing that vision? The vision for NU was bold: to create an institution that could compete with the best universities in the world while serving as a model for higher education reform in Kazakhstan . From day one, we envisioned NU as a hub for innovation, research, and leadership development—a place where the brightest minds could come together to solve the challenges of tomorrow. However, one should not forget that universities, in particular research universities, are a long-term endeavor. They are meant to educate and develop generations upon generations of leaders and professionals in a broad range of sectors, and thus contribute to the scientific, economic, and societal wealth of countries. Building a strong institution that can meet the test of time requires long-term and unwavering commitments to foundational values such as integrity, meritocracy, excellence, openness and transparency. But of course, strong financial support from government and other stakeholders is needed, especially in the first decades. Thus, it was understood that NU would be dependent on state funding (through education grants and capital investments) for the initial decades of its existence, while in the meantime it would develop other sources of financing such as through endowment funds, tuition, and contract research. The Nazarbayev Fund, NGF and the Jusan Group were integral parts of this vision. This overall construct allowed us to recruit world-class faculty, develop state-of-the-art facilities, and provide scholarships to talented students, many from underprivileged backgrounds. These resources weren't just financial—they were a vote of confidence in NU's mission and a recognition of the transformative power of education. The loss of these resources is a significant setback, but I do hope that NU can recover. The university must focus on rebuilding trust with its stakeholders—students, faculty, alumni, and the public. This starts with transparency in financial management and governance. Diversifying funding sources will be crucial. This includes rebuilding its endowments, engaging with the philanthropic community, and developing innovative revenue streams. But most importantly, NU must stay true to its mission and values. Financial stability is important, but it must never come at the cost of compromising the university's integrity or academic excellence. Restoring NU's credibility begins with transparency. For instance, the university must share the audit report with stakeholders, and openly address any major shortcomings highlighted in the audit, including financial mismanagement and governance failures. An independent investigation, followed by public disclosure of findings, will demonstrate a commitment to accountability. Next, an affirmation of NU's commitment to its foundational values and principles is needed. Next, institutional reforms are essential. This includes introducing stronger oversight mechanisms for financial and administrative processes, ensuring that governance boards are staffed with individuals of the highest integrity and independence, and that management, faculty and staff are recruited on the basis of transparency and merit. Fourth, NU must recommit itself to its founding mission of academic excellence. This means maintaining rigorous admission standards, prioritizing high-quality faculty recruitment, and fostering research that addresses national and global challenges. And finally, engaging the NU community—students, faculty, alumni, and parents—in shaping the university's path forward is critical. A transparent, inclusive process will rebuild trust and reaffirm NU's position as a leader in higher education. Educational reform is not just critical—it is foundational to Kazakhstan's economic recovery and long-term stability. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in education systems worldwide, but it also underscored the importance of adaptability, innovation, and resilience. For Kazakhstan , investing in education means investing in the future. A well-educated population is essential for diversifying the economy, attracting foreign investment, and fostering innovation. Institutions like NU and NIS must lead the way by setting benchmarks for quality and demonstrating the value of education in driving economic progress. Moreover, reform must focus on equity. Expanding access to high-quality education for students from socially vulnerable backgrounds will ensure that economic recovery benefits all segments of society, not just the privileged few. - How do you see the role of institutions like NU and NIS in not only providing quality education but also contributing to economic growth in Kazakhstan , especially when financial stability is threatened? NU and NIS are more than educational institutions—they are catalysts for economic growth and social development. By equipping students with critical thinking skills, technical expertise, and a global perspective, they prepare the workforce needed to diversify Kazakhstan's economy. Their impact extends beyond classrooms. NU's research contributes to solving national challenges in areas like energy, healthcare, and technology. Meanwhile, NIS fosters innovation and leadership at the secondary education level, creating a pipeline of talent that benefits universities and industries alike. To sustain this role, NU and NIS must secure their financial stability. This includes strengthening governance, diversifying funding sources, and forging partnerships with the private sector and international organizations. These institutions are vital to Kazakhstan's future, and their success is intertwined with the country's broader economic ambitions. - Could the model used by NU and supported by the Nazarbayev Fund be applied in other countries, or does it require a uniquely Kazakh approach to work effectively? The NU model is innovative, but its core principles—integrity, meritocracy, autonomy, and a focus on global best practices—are universally applicable. Many countries could benefit from establishing institutions that prioritize excellence and align with international standards. That said, successful implementation depends on adapting the model to local contexts. Kazakhstan's approach benefited from strong initial financial and political backing, and a vision that emphasized independence from political and state bureaucratic interference. Replicating this requires careful consideration of governance structures, funding mechanisms, autonomy and other values, and cultural factors. In countries where philanthropic traditions or financial resources are limited, the model may need to rely more on public-private partnerships or international collaborations. Ultimately, the NU experience demonstrates that ambitious goals in education are achievable with the right vision, leadership, and long-term commitment support. - What lessons do you hope others will learn from the experience of the NGF, Jusan Bank , and the financial turmoil at NU? The story of NU and its financial affiliates offers a critical lesson: no institution, no matter how noble its mission, is immune to mismanagement and corruption without strong governance. NU and NIS' financial pillars, namely the Nazarbayev Fund, NGF, Jusan Group, but also the SDF and NIS' Corporate Development Fund were designed to guarantee long-term financial sustainability, yet their exploitation demonstrates how quickly trust can be eroded when transparency and accountability are neglected. For any endowment fund or financial institution, the following lessons are clear: NU's experience is a cautionary tale but also an opportunity. By addressing these failures head-on, NU can emerge as a model for how institutions can learn from adversity and rebuild stronger than before. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nazarbayev-university-crisis-shigeo-katsu-demands-audit-transparency-302338886.html SOURCE EU Reporter48 jili 。

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info MasterChef's Gregg Wallace has been making headlines not just for his culinary critiques but also for his personal life. The 60-year-old TV personality recently stepped back from the show amid ongoing investigations into misconduct allegations . Despite the turmoil, his wife Anna was seen proudly sporting her wedding band, signalling a united front. The couple, who share a son named Sid and have been an item for over a decade, tied the knot in 2016. In a candid chat on Loose Women after the birth of their child in May 2019, Gregg made light of their 22-year age gap with a quip that had everyone talking. He joked to panellist Judi Love, "Baby Sid. You haven't met Mrs Wallace, but I was really pleased she had a baby because it's someone at home who is more her own age to talk to." Before finding love with Anna, Gregg's romantic history included three previous marriages, one of which ended after just six weeks. His third marriage to Heidi Brown, a biology teacher he met on Twitter, lasted only 14 months following their grand nuptials, reports Birmingham Live . Reflecting on this chapter, Gregg didn't mince words, calling it a "huge mistake" and sharing that it was a low point in his life despite Heidi's rapport with his children from his second marriage to Denise Lovall. After splitting from Heidi, Gregg had a string of romances with stunning women, which prompted a stern warning from his therapist. In an interview with the Daily Mail , Gregg confessed that following another failed marriage, he sought out partners who made him feel like a million bucks - like cruising in his Jaguar with the roof down. However, his therapist cautioned him against treating partners like cars. In 2021, Gregg revealed: "The reason I had so many girlfriends was that I was always looking for somebody. I think it's an absolute game of chance. What are the chances of finding somebody who you're not only attracted to and makes you feel comfortable and happy, but is actually looking for what you have to offer?" Luckily, fate intervened when he met his now-wife Anna on Twitter in 2013, bonding over a conversation about rhubarb. During a January appearance on Good Morning Britain , Wallace gushed about Anna's life-changing impact, saying: "That young woman has revolutionised my life, there's a 22-year age gap, we have been together 10 years and have a son, Sid, and I want to be there for them." The family, including Anna's parents, Rina and Massimo, live together in his £1million Kent mansion, where they all pitch in with household chores, often have tea together, and even help care for Sid, giving Gregg and Anna a much-needed break. Gregg got real about family life in a heartfelt chat with The Telegraph, saying: "I'm a much better father now I'm older, although another child isn't something that I would have chosen at my age. I have always been very honest with Anna, but it's what she wants and I love her. I just requested two things – that we had help in the house (so her mum moved in), and secondly, that we had at least one week a year when we holidayed just the two of us."Like many embarking on the journey of mastering a new language, Megan Bednarczyk understands the challenges that come with it. The senior design manager at language-learning app Duolingo has been studying French using the popular platform for the last two years. The 30-year-old recalled how she was in Paris a year ago, determined to put what she learnt to use. “I was at a restaurant and I knew the vocabulary to use, but the second someone spoke to me in French, I froze. I had no confidence to speak the language and it was so frustrating,” she said. She fared better while on a recent trip to Paris. “This time, I had more confidence to speak French. I was given the French menu, and I ordered my meal in French,” said Bednarczyk with a hint of pride. Bednarczyk credits her confidence to daily practice. And yes, Duo, the beloved green owl mascot of Duolingo that constantly reminds her (and other users) to keep up with her lessons. She also has Lily to thank. Duolingo users would be familiar with Lily, the purple-haired, emo teenage character known for her sarcasm and moody demeanour. Lily is also the face of Duolingo Max, the platform’s newest AI-powered subscription tier which offers two exclusive features: Explain My Answer and Roleplay. It was launched in March. The two features came about after Bednarczyk and her team, which includes designers, illustrators, engineers, linguists and education experts, researched the pain points learners were facing: To understand their mistakes better and to have more opportunities for conversational practice. The New York-based designer and avid marathon runner led the design of Duolingo Max from concept to launch. She was in Singapore to speak at the Design Future Forum 2024 in October during Singapore Design Week. Explain My Answer helps users learn more about their response in a lesson, regardless of whether the answer was correct or incorrect. “Sometimes, you make a mistake but you don’t know why. Using AI, we explain the associated grammar rule with that mistake, so that you don’t make the same mistake again,” Bednarczyk said. Roleplay allows learners to practise real-world conversation skills with the characters in the app. For example, they might discuss future vacation plans with Oscar, go furniture shopping with Eddy, ask Bea to go for a hike , or ask Lin to help with dog-walking. “We wanted to make people speak with the characters more, rather than type out their replies. Speaking helps build up confidence more, especially in real world scenarios,” said Bednarczyk, who can attest to this. Although users aren’t talking to a live human, the AI behind this feature is responsive and interactive, meaning no two conversations will be exactly alike. After the interaction, learners get AI-powered feedback from Duo on the accuracy and complexity of their responses, as well as tips for future conversations. There is also the Video Call feature, where learners can video call Lily and have a conversation. Even though Lily isn’t real, she can remember little details about the learner and will use them in future conversations. The more proficient the learner is, the more nuanced the conversation. Bednarczyk told CNA Women that Lily is the face of Duolingo Max as she represents introverted learners and is popular for her relatable personality. “She is not easily excitable, so you really have to work hard to impress her. We picked her as she gave a more realistic experience to language learning.” Launched in 2011, Duolingo was created by Luis von Ahn and Severin Hacker with the aim of making education accessible to everyone. Number of users: Over 500 million learners worldwide to date, of which 74 million are active users. Languages offered: Over 100, from the world’s top five most spoken languages, namely English, Spanish, French, Japanese and German, to less commonly taught languages such as Hawaiian, Navajo and Scottish Gaelic. You can also learn High Valyrian from Game Of Thrones, and Klingon from the Star Trek series, as well as math and music. Most popular languages in Singapore: Japanese, Chinese and Spanish. How to learn: Membership levels start with the free Duolingo tier, where users go from the start to end of a course without paying a cent. It also offers two paid subscription tiers. Super Duolingo, at S$13.98 (US$10.40) per month, that allows users to fast track their learning. Bednarczyk said the majority of learners are on the Super Duolingo tier. Duolingo Max costs S$27.98 per month, which includes all the benefits of Super Duolingo and the new AI-powered features. It is currently available only for the Chinese, French for English Speakers and Spanish for English Speakers courses. Bednarczyk fully embraces AI and sees it as a partner. “AI helps take away the mundane tasks,” she said, citing an example of using AI to help her draw grids for brainstorming sessions. “I still do the strategic thinking,” she said. “I use AI as a sparring partner, to help me write the copy. It never gives me the perfect copy, but I use what it gives to shape my own thinking. I see it like a partner that enhances the work we do.” “Humans are still the final decision maker, and we are the ones asking and framing the questions to get the solutions that we need,” Bednarczyk added. Humans write the scenarios that learners see in Roleplay, making sure the initial prompt is aligned with where they are in their course. Humans also review the AI-generated explanations to ensure that answers are factually correct and have the right tone. Bednarczyk said that if not for AI, specifically GPT-4, Duolingo Max might have taken longer to create. “We knew that Duolingo had gaps and pain points, which we wanted to solve for years, but it was either too hard or took too much effort.” GPT-4 allowed the team to fill those gaps. Bednarczyk said Duolingo is not competing with other language learning apps, but rather with other social media apps. “We need to make learning engaging to keep learners coming back,” she said. This is where her design expertise comes in. Although trained in product design, designing in the digital world follows the same principles – solving a problem through design that is simple and beautiful. Duolingo’s aim is to make learning a language enjoyable and accessible, and this is done through thoughtful, innovative design. Lessons are bite-sized to fit busy learners’ schedules and take a game-like approach to foster a sense of accomplishment. The interface is intuitive, allowing users to navigate effortlessly through lessons and exercises. “We want learners to open the app, and know what to do next – creating something so simple can be hard,” said Bednarczyk. “Some of the best experiences with an app could be unmemorable, because you don’t have problems with it.” Working on a digital platform means things are constantly changing. To stay on top of the game, the team keeps up to date with the latest AI news, stays abreast of what other tech companies are doing, listens to users on their wants, and is always thinking about how others can disrupt them. Bednarczyk is constantly reminding herself and her team that “the things that you are building today will hopefully not be in the app in two years – that is how fast we innovate. If the feature is still there, it means the product is stale”. CNA Women is a section on CNA Lifestyle that seeks to inform, empower and inspire the modern woman. If you have women-related news, issues and ideas to share with us, email CNAWomen [at] mediacorp.com.sg .

Lebanon is closing all its land border crossings with Syria except for a main one that links Beirut with the Syrian capital Damascus, the General Security Directorate said Friday. The decision came hours after an Israeli airstrike damaged a border crossing in northern Lebanon just days after it was reopened. Separately, Jordan’s interior minister said the Naseeb border crossing with Syria had been closed because of the security situation on the Syrian side. He spoke after Syrian opposition activists said insurgents had captured the main border crossing with Jordan, forcing the Syrian authorities to leave. Israel’s military said it planned to reinforce its positions in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights and near the border with Syria. Israel said it was “monitoring developments and is prepared for all scenarios, offensive and defensive alike.” Meanwhile, Syrian insurgents entered the central towns of Rastan and Talbiseh early Friday just north of the central city of Homs, bringing them closer Syria’s third largest city, an opposition war monitor and pro-government media both reported. The breakthrough came a day after jihiadi-led opposition fighters captured the central city of Hama , Syria’s fourth largest. In other developments, a Hamas official said international mediators have resumed negotiations with the Palestinian militant group and Israel over a ceasefire in Gaza, and he was hopeful a deal to end the 14-month war is within reach. Israel's war against Hamas has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced 90% of the population of 2.3 million, often multiple times. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel in October 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 people hostage . Israel’s blistering retaliatory offensive has killed at least 44,600 Palestinians , more than half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were combatants. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Here's the Latest: Israeli strike kills at least 12 people and wounds 46 more in central Gaza DEIR AL-Balah, Gaza Strip — An Israeli strike hit a residential building in central Gaza's Nuseirat refugee camp on Friday evening, killing at least 12 people, including six children and four women, according to officials at Awda Hospital. The strike wounded at least 46 others, including 13 children and 12 women, and damaged several neighboring houses, the hospital said. Israel’s offensive has killed over 44,600 Palestinians in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were combatants. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Israel says ‘thousands’ of food packs were delivered to besieged northern Gaza CAIRO — Israel said Friday that “thousands of food packages and sacks of flour” were delivered to the isolated northernmost reaches of Gaza, where hunger experts warn famine could be underway. The delivery would mark one of the first successful convoys to the area, which is besieged by Israeli troops that have mounted a fierce offensive in Gaza’s north since early October. COGAT, the Israeli military agency that controls the border crossings into Gaza, said the aid was delivered to the town of Beit Hanoun. Israeli authorities did not publicly say who delivered the aid, and did not provide details on the exact amount of aid involved. COGAT released photos of flatbed trucks driving past rubble, some carrying what appeared to be 25-kilogram (55 pound) sacks of aid and others with cargo covered under tarps. The U.N. has struggled to deliver aid to the area in recent weeks. Alia Zaki, a spokesperson for the World Food Program, told The Associated Press that nearly no food has entered the area for two months, and that the agency’s daily requests to enter the area have been denied by Israel. Of two missions that have been approved since Oct. 6, Zaki said, only two trucks of aid were delivered to a shelter that Israeli soldiers ordered to evacuate soon after and then burned. The situation in northern Gaza has prompted hunger experts to warn that famine is either near or may already be underway. Kurdish-led force in Syria says it has taken positions along Iraq border BEIRUT — A Kurdish-led force in Syria that's backed by the United States says it has taken positions along the border with Iraq, replacing Syrian government forces. The move by the Syrian Democratic Forces to capture areas on the west bank of the Euphrates River is likely to cut the land line that links Iran with the Mediterranean coast. The SDF said in a statement that its fighters were deployed in the eastern city of Deir el-Zour and west of the Euphrates for the safety of civilians. “Our primary objective is to protect our security and the security of our people,” it said about the deployment. SDF spokesman Farhad Shami told The Associated Press that their fighters are not in control of the Boukamal border crossing with Iraq. Rami Abdurrahman of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said Iran-backed fighters have evacuated the border crossing point of Boukamal and the SDF is expected to control it later. The Boukamal border crossing has been a main supply line for Iran-backed fighters, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah, who had opened the corridor that links Iran with the Mediterranean in 2017. The developments come as jihadi-led insurgents in northwestern Syria have made stunning advances over the past week that have so far met little resistance from government troops. Many displaced Palestinians at an aid kitchen in southern Gaza leave empty-handed KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip — Crowds of displaced Palestinians, some carrying cooking pots and crying children, gathered at an aid kitchen in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis on Friday, but many left with nothing. “The food ran out,” said Adel Mohammad, who was hoping to get a meal of rice – the only food being served — for his children. “At night they wake up hungry.” After the kitchen shut down, children used their hands to scoop bits of rice left in large empty cooking pots. The World Food Program has warned that the humanitarian response in Gaza is “nearing collapse as famine looms.” The U.N. agency says Israeli restrictions on aid deliveries, along with the breakdown of law and order in Gaza, has made it difficult for aid convoys to reach displaced Palestinians. Concerns are growing with the onset of another winter of war. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, many displaced repeatedly by Israeli attacks, are living in tent camps, reliant on international aid. Experts have already warned of famine in northern Gaza, which Israeli forces have almost completely isolated since early October. Lebanon closes all its land border crossings with Syria except one BEIRUT -- Lebanon’s General Security Directorate said Friday the country is closing all land border crossing with Syria except for a main one that links Beirut with the Syrian capital Damascus. The decision by the security agency in charge of border crossings came hours after an Israeli airstrike damaged the Arida border crossing with Syria in north Lebanon, days after it was reopened. “Border crossings will be closed until further notice for the safety of travelers,” the agency said in a statement posted on X. It said that the only border crossing that will be kept open is Masnaa in Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley. Lebanon’s state news agency said Friday the airstrike on the Arida crossing caused heavy material damage and cut the road. The Israeli military said fighter jets attacked the border crossing between Lebanon and Syria, adding that they were used to transfer munitions for Lebanon’s Hezbollah group. Syrian insurgents capture key crossing point on border with Jordan BEIRUT - Syrian opposition activists say insurgents have captured a main border crossing with Jordan forcing Syrian authorities to leave it. Shortly afterward, Jordan’s Interior Minister al-Frayeh said the Naseeb border crossing with Syria had been closed because of the security situation on the Syrian side. Opposition activists posted videos online showing people storming the border crossing with Jordan, which was in rebel hands until government forces regained control of it in 2018. Ahmad al-Masalmeh, an opposition activist based in France who covers events in southern Syria, told The Associated Press that local gunmen have captured the Naseeb crossing as well as several other areas in the southern province of Daraa where the uprising against President Bashar Assad began in March 2011. Syrian troops have evacuated checkpoints in several areas including the villages of Inkhil, Nawa and Jassem, he added. Israel reinforces troops in Golan Heights amid Syria tensions JERUSALEM — Israel’s military said on Friday that it planned to reinforce its forces stationed in the Golan Heights and near the border with Syria, where civil war has reignited between the government and rebel groups. The Israeli military said in a statement that it was “monitoring developments and is prepared for all scenarios, offensive and defensive alike.” After 13 years of civil war, Syrian insurgents are gaining ground, first taking cities in the country’s north and on Friday entering cities in central Syria. It comes as rebel groups mount new challenges to Russia- and Iran-backed Syrian forces, including in Aleppo, the country’s largest city. Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has intermittently struck areas in Syria seen as strongholds of Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group it is at war with in Lebanon. The advances of the Syrian insurgents adds new instability on Israel’s northern border, two months after it invaded neighboring Lebanon. Israel’s defense minister and military chief of staff met to discuss the situation Thursday. Israeli media reported there is concern in the country’s security establishment that the rebels would advance until they reached the Golan Heights, territory occupied by Israel, gaining control of Syrian weapons stockpiles along the way. Writing in the Israeli daily Yedioth Ahoronoth Friday, veteran military correspondent Ron Ben-Yishai wrote that Israel may “prefer” to destroy the weapons storehouses so they won’t fall into the hands of the rebels. Israel seized control of the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Mideast war. Syria has constantly accused Israel of launching attacks against it from territory it occupies in the Golan Heights. Israel has frequently struck Syria over the years. Syrian insurgents enter 2 central towns, bringing them close to the city of Homs BEIRUT — Syrian insurgents entered two central towns early Friday just north of the central city of Homs, bringing them closer Syria’s third largest city, an opposition war monitor and pro-government media both reported. The break into Rastan and Talbiseh came a day after opposition gunmen captured the central city of Hama , Syria’s fourth largest, after the Syrian army said it withdrew to avoid fighting inside the city and spare the lives of civilians. The insurgents, led by the jihadi Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have said that they will march to Homs and Damascus, President Bashar Assad’s seat of power. The city of Homs, parts of which were controlled by insurgents until 2014, is a major intersection point between the capital, Damascus, and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus where Assad enjoys wide support. Homs province is Syria’s largest in size and borders Lebanon, Iraq and Jordan. Insurgents are now 5 kilometers (3 miles) away from Homs, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor. “The battle of Homs is the mother of all battles and will decide who will rule Syria,” said Rami Abdurrahman, the Observatory’s chief. Iran says it conducted a successful space launch in a program long criticized by the West MANAMA, Bahrain — Iran said Friday it conducted a successful space launch, the latest for its program the West alleges improves Tehran’s ballistic missile technology. Iran conducted the launch using its Simorgh program , a satellite-carrying rocket that had had a series of failed launches, at Iran’s Imam Khomeini Spaceport in rural Semnan province. That’s the site of Iran’s civilian space program. The Simorgh carried what Iran described as an “orbital propulsion system,” as well as two research systems to a 400-kilometer (250-mile) orbit above the Earth. A system that could change the orbit of a spacecraft would allow Iran to geo-synchronize the orbits of its satellites. Tehran has long sought that ability. Iran also put the payload of the Simorgh at 300 kilograms (660 pounds), heavier than its previous successful launches. There was no immediate independent confirmation the launch was successful. The U.S. military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The announcement comes as heightened tensions grip the wider Middle East over Israel’s continued war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip and as an uneasy ceasefire holds in Lebanon. Australian leader blames antisemitism for arson that extensively damaged a Melbourne synagogue MELBOURNE, Australia — Arsonists extensively damaged a Melbourne synagogue on Friday in what Australia’s prime minister condemned as an antisemitic attack on Australian values. The blaze in the Adass Israel Synagogue is an escalation in targeted attacks in Australia since the war began between Israel and Hamas last year. Cars and buildings have been vandalized and torched around Australia in protests inspired by the war. A witness who had come to the synagogue to pray saw two masked men spreading a liquid accelerant with brooms inside the building at 4:10 a.m., officials said. About 60 firefighters with 17 fire trucks responded to the blaze, which police said caused extensive damage. Investigators have yet to identify a motive, but Prime Minister Anthony Albanese blamed antisemitism. “This was a shocking incident to be unequivocally condemned. There is no place in Australia for an outrage such as this,” Albanese told reporters. “To attack a place of worship is an attack on Australian values. To attack a synagogue is an act of antisemitism, is attacking the right that all Australians should have to practice their faith in peace and security,” he added. Hamas official says Gaza ceasefire talks have resumed after weekslong hiatus ISTANBUL — A Hamas official says international mediators have resumed negotiating with the militant group and Israel over a ceasefire in Gaza, and that he was hopeful a deal to end the 14-month war was within reach. Ceasefire negotiations were halted last month when Qatar suspended talks with mediators from Egypt and the United States because of frustration over a lack of progress between Israel and Hamas. But there has been a “reactivation” of efforts in recent days to end the fighting, release hostages from Gaza and free Palestinian prisoners in Israel, according to Bassem Naim, an official in Hamas’ political bureau who spoke with The Associated Press in Turkey on Thursday. Another official familiar with the talks confirmed the return of Qatari mediators. The official spoke Thursday on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the negotiations with the media. Since the talks broke down, there have been significant shifts in the global and regional landscape. Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, and a ceasefire was declared last week between Israel and Hamas ally Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump is a staunch supporter of Israel, but Naim said he believes the incoming administration could “affect the situation positively” given that Trump had made halting wars in the region part of his campaign platform. Trump this week called for the release of all hostages held in Gaza by the time he takes office on Jan. 20, saying there would be “hell to pay” if that doesn’t happen. Attack near US base in eastern Syria may have wounded 3 service members, Pentagon says WASHINGTON -- Three U.S. service members were being evaluated for potential traumatic brain injuries following an attack near a base in eastern Syria this week, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said Thursday. Ryder said U.S. Central Command is still evaluating who was behind the attack near Mission Support Site Euphrates, which prompted the U.S. to conduct counter strikes on Tuesday. At the time, the Pentagon said rockets and mortars had landed in the vicinity of the base. The U.S. has about 900 troops in Syria to conduct missions to counter the Islamic Stage group. By Lolita Baldor

Baylor staying committed to each other ahead of Texas BowlEVANSVILLE 66, CAMPBELL 53

England's Test Coup Crumbles: Cox Out with InjuryPreview: Shrewsbury Town vs. Lincoln City - prediction, team news, lineups

When life gets tough, many of us find it hard to lift our voices in praise. Honestly, during challenging and painful times, praise often feels like the last thing we want to do. It’s easy to let our emotions dictate our response, but as believers, we are called to live differently. We are meant to praise God not only when things are going well, but especially in our most difficult moments. It's during these struggles that our praise can have the greatest impact. The story of Paul and Silas in Acts 16 serves as a powerful testament to this truth. In Acts 16, we see Paul and Silas facing severe consequences after freeing a slave girl from a spirit of divination. If you’ve never read the story, I encourage you to check it out; it’s pretty cool. Instead of receiving gratitude, they were beaten and thrown into the innermost prison, their feet locked in stocks. In that dark place, they had every reason to complain or fall into despair. I’m sure you’ve been there before, in a dark season where you feel stuck and see no way out. Yet, at midnight, they made a bold choice: they began to pray and sing hymns to God. Their decision to worship — a deliberate act of faith — stands in stark contrast to the natural inclination to grumble when faced with hardship. As Christians, we must recognize two essential truths when navigating trials. First, spiritual opposition is a part of our journey. The Christian life isn’t a cruise ship; it’s more like a battleship. Facing challenges comes with the territory, and understanding that we’re in a spiritual battle equips us to withstand those difficulties. Second, trials are not random; they are part of God’s divine plan. Like Paul and Silas, we will encounter obstacles, but these experiences are tailored for our growth and provide an opportunity to glorify God. Through these trials, God teaches us resilience and deepens our faith. When we choose to praise in the midst of adversity, we activate a powerful force. The praise of Paul and Silas was the sound of hope in the den of despair, leading to an incredible miracle—an earthquake that opened doors and unfastened their chains. Their worship wasn’t just a way to cope; it became a catalyst for God’s power to break through. This profound act of faith not only liberated them but also captivated the attention of the jailer, who soon sought salvation, bringing his entire household to faith. I imagine that God and the angels of heaven looked upon these men, amazed that they approached their situation as Job did. Do you remember Job’s words? He said, “Though He slay me, I will hope in Him.” Throughout the Scriptures, we find many instances where people could have easily given up, blamed God for their situation, and abandoned their walk with Jesus. But not Paul and Silas. They followed in the same steps of faith and praised God in the middle of their suffering. How about you? How do you handle the pain of life? How do you deal with unexpected changes in your plans? How do you behave when things go in a completely opposite direction from what you expected? I wish I could say I’ve never grumbled or complained or had a lousy attitude when I was in a bad place, but I’d be lying. Over and over again, I’ve failed the test and had to repent for my perspective. My feelings are real. Your feelings are real. Life hurts—I get it. But here’s the thing: we haven’t been called to live by our feelings; we’ve been called to live by faith and to learn to praise in the middle of our prison seasons. By God’s grace, we learn to adopt a new perspective—one that humbly admits that we don’t have the right to get sour when God has been so good to us. Let me ask you: has God been good to you? I wonder what would happen if you chose to thank Him and praise Him when it’s the last thing you felt like doing. I’m willing to bet you would find the foundation of your situation changing, just as Paul and Silas experienced their prison walls shaking and soon discovered the freedom that comes from breaking the shackles of negativity. As we reflect on our lives, let’s consider the “prisons” we may be facing. What burdens can we break free from through praise? How can we intentionally offer thanks even when it's challenging? The discipline of praise is not just about enduring tough times; it’s about actively choosing gratitude in the face of adversity. By lifting our voices in worship, we honor God, demonstrate our faith, and hopefully inspire those around us to do the same. In every season, let us remember the power of praise—it can transform our struggles into stepping stones toward deeper faith and new opportunities for witnessing God’s goodness.

Gilbert and Jones help No. 5 Iowa State outlast Dayton 89-84 in Maui

Nazarbayev University Crisis: Shigeo Katsu Demands Audit TransparencyATHENS Romanian Premier Marcel Ciolacu led the first round of Sunday's presidential election with 25% votes, exit polls showed, and a run-off seemed likely after two weeks. Ciolacu, candidate of the Social Democratic Party, was followed by Elena Lasconi of the Save Romania Union party with 18%, the Antena3 broadcaster reported. Some 9.4 million people cast vote in the polls that closed at 1900 GMT, indicating an over 50% voter turnout. Voters were choosing between 13 candidates to replace outgoing President Klaus Iohannis.​​​​​​​ The top two move on to a run-off on Dec. 8 if no single candidate gets more than 50% of the vote in the first round.

A snowball fight at Kidd Brewer Stadium ? There were elements of that Saturday in Boone, North Carolina, when JMU football stood in the tunnel waiting to enter the field in its game against Appalachian State . In a snowy stadium, fans standing by the visitors tunnel hurled snowballs and other objects at the Dukes while they stood in the tunnel. The players had pads and helmets on, but not everyone in the tunnel did. JMU football coach Bob Chesney said even after coming out of the tunnel before the game, snowballs kept falling. He thought there were a few instances during the game. @SunBelt when do your officials plan on stopping the snowballs being thrown on the field at JMU players lined up for the snap? The warning should have been made at the beginning of the game with a penalty for this. pic.twitter.com/4vPADFgAf9 "I thought at one point on the PAT, a snowball hit our long snapper," Chesney said. "It's just what they're doing and who they are and it's exciting." JMU and Appalachian State have developed a rivalry since the Dukes moved to the Sun Belt. In 2022 — during the Dukes' transition year before they were officially part of FBS — JMU came back to win after being down 28-3. In 2023, the Mountaineers beat the Dukes at home in overtime with College GameDay in town. It was JMU's first game at Kidd Brewer Stadium since that comeback win two years ago. The Dukes were greeted with snowballs, among other projectiles. Chesney said he appreciated the fanfare, but was concerned for his staff members who had to go back and forth through the tunnel without protection. "You didn't love going up and down the ramp with ice (thrown) at you," Chesney said. "Especially with coaches and everybody else in there without helmets on. "I think they need to do a little bit of a better job of making sure they protected those people." Those staff members included JMU coaches, support staff and athletic trainers among others. At one point, Chesney's son was out there as well. I mean ... is this not a penalty? Kind of insane the Sun Belt threatened JMU fans for throwing streamers with penalties yet this goes unnoticed https://t.co/w3A1D744Uq As of Monday, Chesney hadn't received official word from the Sun Belt about what happened. He has not heard anything from JMU athletic director Mark Roan, either. "It was interesting coming up through that tunnel," Chesney said, "the unprotected areas with the ice being thrown over, that was an interesting moment, especially with the coaches and our trainers and everybody else. "It was not the greatest situation, but I think we all survived. I thought they could have done a better job, especially with the security people watching them. I think there could have been a little more done to protect those people, especially without the helmets on." Savannah Reger (804) 649-6772 sreger@timesdispatch.com @SavannahReger17 on X Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Charlotte Crosby trebles security measures to ‘feel safe’ amid attempted robbery