Boston University announced it will eliminate about 120 occupied staff positions and close around 120 vacant listings, in a letter to faculty and staff on July 7. This coincides with a budget reduction of an average of 5% across all University units for the 2026 fiscal year. Both measures are set to take effect within the next several days.

The decision was a reaction to BU’s “challenging financial reality.” This includes federal funding cuts, rising inflation and changing demographics, according to a University statement. 

“Every effort has been made to limit the number of layoffs, and these actions will apply to approximately 1% of our employees,” BU President Melissa Gilliam and other University leaders wrote in the July 7 letter. “Still, we know that any reduction in staffing is painful.”

Recent federal policy changes have prompted efforts to cut costs at higher education institutions across the country including Harvard University, Northwestern University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. 

BU stated it will communicate personally with each affected employee, providing information about support and available transitional services.

Some faculty do not agree with how BU executed the layoffs.

Mary Battenfeld, co-president of the BU chapter of the American Association of University Professors, wrote in an email to The Daily Free Press that she believes the University appeared to take action without “faculty consultation and in violation of principles of shared governance.” 

The University also faced backlash from United Auto Workers Local 2324, the union representing more than 400 higher education staff at BU. Fifteen of its represented workers were laid off, and seven had their hours reduced, according to the union’s records.

Zachary Bos, president of the union, said BU did not notify the union in advance that it would be laying off employees. 

“Our first communication, much to our shock, was the same information all the other members of the campus community got, which is to say the president’s email from [July 7],” he said. “Prior to that, our efforts to learn whether BU was contemplating layoffs were only met with denials or stonewalls.”

Bos said an advance notification would have prepared the union to support the affected staff. He added the union would have been able to address potential noncompliance with the workers’ contracts, such as if they were laid off based on retaliation or discrimination.

The union intends to demand a town hall meeting with all involved personnel, he said. It has also filed a formal request for information regarding the financial rationale behind the layoffs.

“BU thinks that it can get away with it because it uses workers as disposable and replaceable,” Bos said. “Disrespect is not what I thought our institutional values were all about.”

BU expressed in the July 7 letter that its decision was necessary. The University plans to transform it into its “most efficient and vital form” over the next few months.

“This is a day of loss for all of us. There is no way around this,” Gilliam wrote. “We know our community may need time to adjust to these difficult changes. Yet, it is also a necessary step in ensuring our future.”

Planning a memorable college event doesn’t have to break the bank. We all know that budgets can be tight, but with a little creativity and smart strategies, we can throw parties that are both fun and affordable. From themed gatherings to casual hangouts, the key is to maximize our resources while keeping the spirit high.

One great way to create a wow-factor on a budget is by purchasing wholesale fireworks online. Buying in bulk can significantly cut costs while adding a spectacular visual element to outdoor events like graduation celebrations, welcome parties, or end-of-semester blowouts.

Don’t forget the tech side of party planning, either. Whether you’re using your phone to manage playlists, take photos, or coordinate with friends, it’s smart to protect your device without sacrificing style. A magsafe case for iphone 16 plus is a sleek and practical accessory that keeps your phone safe while staying compatible with all your MagSafe gear for added convenience during the festivities.

In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and tricks for budget-friendly party planning. Whether it’s finding the best deals on decorations or choosing cost-effective venues, we’ll cover everything we need to know to make our next event a success. Let’s dive in and discover how to celebrate without stressing over finances.

Understanding Budget-Friendly Party Planning

Budget-friendly party planning maximizes our resources while ensuring memorable experiences. Focusing on effective strategies allows us to celebrate without overspending.

Importance of Budgeting

Budgeting plays a crucial role in successful party planning. It helps us set realistic expectations, manage costs, and allocate funds appropriately for various aspects like food, decorations, and entertainment. Tracking expenses limits overspending and reduces financial stress. For example, we can use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor our spending effectively. Establishing a budget also encourages creativity, prompting us to find innovative solutions that meet our needs without compromising on fun. By prioritizing essential elements, we can create enjoyable environments that foster good times for all attendees.

Setting Financial Limits

Setting financial limits clarifies spending boundaries and promotes responsible planning. We should determine total funds available for the event, then break down that amount into categories like venue, refreshments, and activities. For instance, allocating 40% for food, 30% for decorations, and 30% for entertainment drives effective decision-making. Knowing these limits enables us to explore options within each category and prioritize high-impact areas. Creating a contingency fund of at least 10% for unexpected expenses ensures we remain on track financially. By establishing these financial parameters, we can enjoy our college events without worrying about exceeding our budgets.

Creative Theme Ideas

Incorporating creative themes can elevate our college events while staying within budget. Let’s explore popular themes and DIY decoration tips that make our parties memorable without overspending.

Popular Themes for College Events

1. Retro Night: Encourage guests to wear outfits from their favorite decades. Use thrift store finds for an authentic atmosphere.
2. Movies Under the Stars: Set up a projector for outdoor film screenings. Create a cozy space with blankets and cheap snacks.
3. Masquerade Ball: Supply masks or encourage attendees to craft their own. Keep the decor elegant yet simple with string lights and candles.
4. Tropical Luau: Use palm leaves and bright colors in decorations. Have guests bring their own leis, reducing rental costs.
5. Around the World: Each table can represent a different country. Simple cuisine can reflect diverse cultures through potlucks.

DIY Decoration Tips

1. Repurpose Materials: Use old furniture and fabrics to create unique decor pieces. Invest time instead of money to transform items.
2. Nature-Inspired Decor: Collect leaves, flowers, or branches for centerpieces. Seasonal items are often free and add natural beauty.
3. DIY Banners and Signage: Craft personalized banners using paper and string. This adds a welcoming touch at minimal cost.
4. Upcycled Jars: Turn empty jars into candle holders or vases. Decorating with paint or twine provides a rustic feel.
5. Light It Up: String lights or fairy lights can transform any room. Purchase them in bulk for a cost-effective option.

These ideas help us engage creatively while keeping our party planning budget-friendly.

Affordable Venue Options

Finding the right venue significantly affects our party’s budget. We can explore various options that cater to our needs without overspending.

On-Campus vs. Off-Campus

On-campus venues often offer lower rental fees, especially when utilized for college events. Students may access common areas, auditoriums, or outdoor spaces for little to no cost. We can check with student affairs or event planning offices for available options. Off-campus venues can provide more atmosphere or amenities but often come with higher costs. We can search for local community centers, parks, or less popular restaurants that may offer good deals. Comparing these options allows us to make informed decisions that suit our budget and preferences.

Outdoor Spaces for Celebrations

Outdoor spaces can be ideal for budget-friendly events. Parks, gardens, or university lawns often provide vast areas for gatherings. Many parks allow reservations at a minimal fee or even for free, requiring only a permit. We can enhance these spaces with simple decorations using items such as picnic tables and string lights to create an inviting environment. Additionally, outdoor venues often allow for easy potlucks, reducing catering costs. Check local regulations to ensure compliance with any food or noise restrictions, ensuring a smooth celebration.

Cost-Effective Catering Solutions

Budget-friendly catering plays a crucial role in planning college events. We can explore various options, from snacks and drinks to potluck gatherings.

Easy Snack and Drink Ideas

We can keep snack options simple yet delicious. Choose finger foods like popcorn, chips, and veggie trays to minimize preparation time. Serve refreshing beverages, such as infused water or homemade lemonade, as cost-effective alternatives to sugary sodas. Purchase snacks in bulk to benefit from lower prices, and consider themed snack stations to enhance the event’s atmosphere without overspending. By being creative, we can satisfy cravings and keep our guests happy.

Potluck Party Suggestions

Potluck parties offer a perfect way to share food and expenses. We can invite guests to bring their favorite dish, creating a diverse menu that caters to different tastes. To ensure variety, we can suggest categories for contributions, such as appetizers, mains, and desserts. Encourage participants to label dishes and ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences. This approach fosters a sense of community while significantly reducing catering costs, making it an ideal solution for our college events.

Entertainment Without the Expense

We can create engaging entertainment options without overspending. Consider a mix of activities that keep participants entertained and involved, all while staying within our budget.

Budget-Friendly Activities

Utilizing common resources fosters creativity. Game nights featuring board games or trivia can engage participants with minimal cost. Organizing a DIY karaoke contest encourages fun and interaction. Hosting outdoor games, such as frisbee or capture the flag, brings energy to the event and requires little financial investment. Additionally, movie nights with attendees voting on films bring an enjoyable atmosphere to gatherings. Our creative activities can boost attendance and ensure memorable experiences without breaking the bank.

Finding Local Talent

We can tap into our campus community to find talented individuals eager to showcase their skills. Reaching out to student musicians or performers decreases entertainment costs significantly. Organizing open mic nights provides aspiring talent with a platform while offering us live entertainment. Collaboration with local performance groups may also yield budget-friendly options. Connecting with student organizations can uncover performers willing to participate for little or no cost, enhancing our event experience and supporting our peers. For more insights on cost-effective event planning, check out resources from Eventbrite.

The post Master Budget-Friendly Party Planning for Memorable College Events: Smart Tips & Ideas appeared first on Daily Emerald.

Just weeks before Colorado State football is set to play its season opener Aug. 30 against Washington, defensive line coach Chuka Ndulue is set to return and coach for the Los Angeles Chargers — according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel — after playing with the team from 2015-16. 

The news comes just one day after the Chargers — the first NFL team to begin training camp this year — opened camp.

Despite being with the Rams for just one season, Ndulue has had a decorated coaching career after spending three years playing in the NFL with the Denver Broncos and the Chargers.

He began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant for his alma mater, Oklahoma, and most notably coached at Southern Illinois and then New Mexico State. In his final year with the Aggies, they achieved a program record of 10 wins in a season; NMSU dropped to just three wins the following year. 

Then, in his most recent season with CSU, the Rams went on a five-game win streak during the conference portion of the season, ending 8-5.

But with CSU’s season opening soon, the timing of Ndulue’s shake-up puts added strain on a program already working to rebuild its defensive identity, especially as the Rams are going into their final year with the Mountain West, looking to prove themselves before transitioning to the Pac-12. 

With just a little over a month until kickoff, head coach Jay Norvell has the clock ticking to find a replacement for Ndulue. 

Reach Sophie Webb at sports@collegian.com or on Twitter @sophgwebb.

The post Breaking: CSU football defensive line coach set to join Los Angeles Chargers appeared first on The Rocky Mountain Collegian.

Jenna Kerkman joins Florida’s AC Fitzpatrick, Auburn’s Mary Katherine Malone and Duke’s Moorea Mitchell to perform the national anthem at the Final Four on April 5 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. | Courtesy of NCAA Athletics

Senior Jenna Kerkman gave up singing to focus on swimming in high school, never expecting that her life as a student-athlete would bring her music career back to the surface.

The peak of that unexpected revival came at the 2025 Men’s Final Four, when Kerkman joined three other student-athletes, each with their own unique sports journey and shared passion for music, to perform together.

Every year, the NCAA invites one representative from each of the four participating schools to come together to sing the national anthem as a group before the semifinal games. This performance celebrates not only athletic excellence but also the diverse talents of student-athletes beyond their sport.

As Kerkman stepped up to the microphone in front of nearly 70,000 fans at the Alamodome, she wasn’t just a swimmer in competition; she was an artist with a gift to share.

“I strive to be a multifaceted person,” Kerkman said. “I try not to be too much of one thing and develop myself outside of athletics. So I was just happy to have such an opportunity. It shows that, at least in some respects, the NCAA does care about you being more than an athlete.”

This past season, Kerkman helped the 200-meter relay team place fourth at the Big 12 Championships, but the Prosper, Texas, native continues to prioritize being more than just a swimmer.

Despite spending countless hours between practice and meets, the English major with a concentration in creative writing earned a spot on the Academic All-Big 12 Team, which recognizes athletes who maintain at least a 3.20 GPA either cumulatively or over the previous two semesters.

She was also honored with the 2025 Spirit Award at the Cougar Choice Awards for her support of other teams and her passion for the school and program.

Even with a demanding schedule, Kerkman continues to find time to prioritize an old passion.

During her junior year of high school, she taught herself guitar and rediscovered her love for music, which she hadn’t pursued since her middle school choir. By the time she arrived at college, she had learned several pieces. Her roommates became her first audience, encouraging her to share her talent with the wider campus community, a challenge she eagerly accepted.

Kerkman began sharing original songs on social media and performing at open mic events, gradually building confidence in her musical abilities.

Her anthem journey started on the pool deck, where she sang before swim meets, before expanding to larger stages, including a Houston Dash match and regular performances at men’s basketball games.

In 2024, she had extra motivation to root for a deep tournament run from the men’s team. She was set to sing the national anthem if the Cougars reached the Final Four, but the team fell in the Sweet 16, delaying her shot at the spotlight.

Still, the hope lingered. And in 2025, she finally got her moment on the biggest stage.

The day before the game, Kerkman joined Duke hammer thrower Moorea Mitchell, Florida volleyball player AC Fitzpatrick and Auburn distance runner Mary Katherine Malone for production rehearsals. Though all four athletes were familiar with the music, the collaborative element pushed Kerkman out of her comfort zone.

“I felt more nervous when we were learning it because I just wanted to make sure that I was getting it right,” Kerkman said. “I was on the harmony part, so it was a little different than what I would normally sing.”

Despite her nerves, Kerkman, who had sung the anthem solo many times before, found comfort in sharing the Alamodome court. 

“It was so surreal,” she said. “But I had three other girls with me, so it didn’t feel like the same amount of pressure as singing by myself.”

For Kerkman, who is still exploring career options after graduation, the experience showed her that there is space for creativity in athletics.

“It definitely opened my eyes to how much goes into it,” Kerkman said. “It’s not just an athletic performance. It’s a show for everyone. Being able to work with people behind the scenes and see what goes on in these big sporting events is awesome. I love to see it.”

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston swimmer Jenna Kerkman’s anthem proves she’s more than an athlete” was originally posted on The Cougar

MEGAN DAVIS:  Hello, Gopher fans. It’s Megan Davis with the Minnesota Daily, and you’re listening to the Gold Standard, a podcast dedicated to the University of Minnesota sports. 

So today’s going to be a pretty chill day just because it’s the middle of July. There’s not a whole lot to talk about, especially in the world of the Gophers. So let’s just get right into it. The first thing I wanted to talk about is going to be an upcoming story for me is that the U.S. girls under-19 volleyball team just won silver after losing to Bulgaria in the World Championships. 

And though, you know, it’s sad to lose to Bulgaria and the championships, it’s good for them that they placed silver. This is the fifth consecutive world championships that the under-19 girls have won a medal. And it’s huge news for the Gophers because two Gopher freshmen made huge contributions to the team, that being Jordan Taylor and Kelly Kinney. 

And they are both going to be incoming freshmen, so they haven’t even had the opportunity to, you know, make an impact on the Gopher team yet. So they’ll be super exciting to see their freshman season. Kelly Kinney did an interview a little while ago, and she said that she really wanted to win a national championship.

I mean, I feel like that’s the goal for most Gophers who compete for the University of Minnesota, but it’s good that it’s already out there. I mean, obviously, with her great performance at World Championships, I think that the Gophers women’s volleyball team is just one step closer to being able to achieve that goal. And so definitely some people to keep a lookout for in the upcoming season. 

My other upcoming story is going to be on the Bershers sisters, Tracey and her sister Zoey, just because it’s not very often that you get two women’s basketball players who are sisters and get to play on the same team. Especially because this will be Tracey’s last year of eligibility and she’s a transfer student. And then this will be Zoey’s first year. So, two completely different paths in their collegiate career right now. But I’m happy that they’re both coming to the U and I’m excited to see them play. 

And then I wanted to talk a little bit about my story last week, which was on the women’s rugby championship in 1988. It was so much fun to do that story. I had such a good time scouring through the Minnesota Daily archives and looking at what other sports reporters wrote in the past. And so I suggest you all read that story because it was super fun, and I think a lot of people don’t know about the history of women’s rugby on campus. 

And you know, we still have rugby team to this day and they don’t really get covered just because we have so many sports and there’s only so many sports reporters. But, it’s not like they’re not a part of the campus and I think that they deserve to be recognized for their achievements, you know, past and present. 

And also, Minnesota has apparently, you know, after doing some research, has quite a history in women’s rugby. And that’s why we have the new team, the Twin Cities Gemini, because of just kind of the history that Minnesota has with rugby. We’ve had a lot of different teams just because of the instability of the sport. But you know, there’s a huge community of women’s rugby players and I just had a fun time seeing all the different perspectives of that story.

Not a lot of huge news just because we have a lot of teams preparing for their upcoming seasons. You have football, preparing for the upcoming season, basketball. I don’t know if we ever talked about it, but Dawson Garcia was in training camp for the Pistons, I believe. So I don’t know where that will go or what will happen, but nice to see that he had a, you know, has a shot to make it onto a team, especially because he ran outta eligibility in college.

Other stories on the Daily, P.J. Fleck gets an extension, not a huge one, not really groundbreaking. I believe it is just a one year extension for his exact same salary to extend him to 2030. So not much there. He’s making the exact same amount of money. 

And he already had a seven-year extension that he signed in 2022. He’s the 11th highest paid coach in the Big Ten, which, in comparison to our record, I feel like is fair. That is all I have for Gopher sports. 

But for sports in general, Wimbledon just finished and Sinner won the Wimbledon beating out Alcaraz. The most intriguing thing about this to me was the fact that he had just had a doping scandal about less than 12 months ago, I believe. And so I’ve seen a lot of things be like “Maybe he shouldn’t have even been able to compete.”

You know, what does this mean about doping in the whole league in general? Because I think both the men’s and the women’s winners did just overcome doping cases and that is, you know, it’s causing some controversy. 

We also have more news from the kind of NIL story that I did a while ago. A lot of different teams are kind of what, where do we go from here? What should we do? How do we enforce it? You know, that’s kind of a big thing, like, how are they going to enforce it? 

That was a huge criticism I saw from a lot of people being like, yes, you established this new committee to say you’re gonna enforce it, but, what are you gonna do? Like just slap them on the wrist and tell them, no, you can’t do that? How are you supposed to go about punishment for this kind of stuff? 

Especially if you’re punishing them, usually, you know, you’re hurting the players ’cause you’re taking away the money that they earned. So that’s super interesting. And there’s also another fun article on the Athletic called “What happens when college football enters its own Moneyball era?” I think that’s fascinating just because it will be the new Moneyball era for college football because they’re gonna have to work around this salary cap.

If they actually enforce it, if they’re actually truly able to enforce punishments, then teams will have to work a lot harder and be a lot smarter about where their money’s going. But of course, people like Deion Sanders, who has to coach the University of Colorado Boulder, says that he likes the salary cap for college football.

And I think that’s the one benefit, is that supposedly what’s this is supposed to do is, you know, kind of limit that. But also like, for these teams who don’t have the big donors, don’t have millionaires sending money to these football programs, to actually compete on a large scale.

So who knows if that will actually happen, but it’s a nice thing to think about, that you know, maybe college football won’t be exclusively run by schools with large bank accounts behind their football team. 

And that’s all I have for today. This episode was written by Megan Davis and produced by Ceci Heinen. As always, we appreciate you listening in and feel free to send a message to our email inbox podcasting@mndaily.com with any questions, comments, or concerns. 

I’m Megan Davis and this has been The Gold Standard.

According to the most recent data from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS), over 369,000 children are currently living within the U.S. child welfare system. These numbers highlight the importance of foster parents and guardians who can respond confidently in times of crisis. They require both emotional endurance and the readiness to act in emergencies.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is one of the most important skills foster parents need to learn. CPR training helps you act fast and save a child’s life in an emergency, particularly for vulnerable children in their care. It’s now easier than ever for foster families to become CPR certified online and build lifesaving skills quickly and conveniently.

Continue reading to learn why CPR online training is required for guardians and foster parents, and what to look for when selecting a quality course.

Why CPR Certification Is Required for Foster Families

Caring for a foster child means being ready for anything. Foster children often need extra support, and CPR training helps caregivers be prepared to protect their health and safety. According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, foster parents caring for medically fragile children who completed Basic Life Support (BLS) training, including CPR, achieved a 71% success rate in rescue breathing for children after focused practice.

The following are some of the key reasons why CPR online training is so valuable for foster parents:

1. Being Ready to Act Quickly

Children are full of energy and curiosity, which sometimes leads to unexpected situations. Whether it’s a breathing issue or a sudden need for help, knowing CPR means you’re prepared to respond right away. CPR training gives you clear steps to follow, helping you stay calm and take action with confidence when it matters most.

2. Making Your Home Safer

Kids are naturally curious, and sometimes that curiosity leads to accidents, whether it’s a fall on the playground or something more serious.

First aid and CPR training give you the confidence to handle everything from minor injuries to real emergencies. Having that knowledge can make your home a safer and more comforting place for a child who has already experienced significant upheaval.

3. Building Confidence You Can Count On

In an emergency, staying calm can make all the difference. CPR training doesn’t just teach methods; it builds confidence. It helps you remain steady and ready to act when it matters most. That calm leadership not only saves lives but also helps children in your care feel safer and more secure.

4. Staying Certified to Keep Your License

In most states, foster parents are required to maintain current CPR certification to keep their license. For example, in some US states, foster parents must complete a 30-hour pre-service training program before they become licensed, which includes training in CPR and first aid.

Staying certified isn’t just about compliance; it shows a commitment to providing the highest level of care to children who depend on you.

5. Skills That Stick with You for Life

The skills learned through CPR training aren’t limited to foster care; they stay with you for life. Whether helping a family member, a neighbor, or a stranger in a public place, knowing how to respond in an emergency is something you’ll always carry with you.

How CPR Online Certification Works

According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, only 32% of individuals considered the performance of CPR by a layperson to be beneficial. This highlights the importance of proper training, especially for foster parents. Foster parents must demonstrate full CPR training before a child is placed in their care. Becoming certified online is relatively simple, but it’s essential to choose a reputable program to ensure your training meets all requirements.

Here are the key steps in completing a CPR online course:

Enroll in a Reputable Program

Choose an accredited and certified course. This ensures that your training meets quality standards and is recognized as legally compliant for foster care certification.

Complete the Online Lessons

Interactive lessons guide you through performing CPR on adults, children, and infants. You’ll also learn to operate an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and manage choking or cardiac emergencies. The self-paced format allows you to complete the course at your own pace.

Take the Final Test

Most programs conclude with a final exam or competency assessment to ensure you understand the procedures and can apply them in real-life situations. Practicing these skills builds confidence and readiness.

Get Your Certification

Once you pass the test, you’ll receive a digital certificate immediately. You may also request a printed card if needed. This certificate serves as official proof of your training for licensing or personal records.

What to Look for in an Online CPR Course for Foster Parents

When choosing an online CPR course for foster care, ensure it meets the required standards. Not all courses are suitable. Here’s what to consider when choosing the right one:

Accreditation and Acceptance

Ensure the course is approved by your state’s licensing agency or foster care board. This confirms that your certification meets legal standards and will not be rejected during the licensing process.

Child and Infant CPR Included

Since foster families care for children of all ages, the course must include CPR for infants and children in addition to adults. Techniques vary significantly by age group.

Hands-On Skills Check (If Necessary)

Some states or agencies may require an in-person skills assessment. Many reputable programs offer a blended option, combining online coursework with an optional in-person skills check to fulfill this requirement.

Instant Certification

Choose a course that delivers your certificate immediately after completion so you’re compliant without delay and ready to respond to emergencies.

Easy Renewal

CPR certification typically expires after two years. Select a provider that offers straightforward renewal options so that you can stay current without a complicated process.

Investing in Child Safety Through Online CPR Certification

Foster parenting is one of the most compassionate roles a person can take on. Part of that commitment includes being prepared to protect the life and health of every child who enters your care. CPR online certification offers foster parents a practical way to gain lifesaving skills without disrupting their busy schedules. Invest in CPR certification not just because it’s required, but because every child deserves a caregiver who’s ready to act when it matters most.

The post CPR Online for Foster Parents and Guardians appeared first on The Rocky Mountain Collegian.

Houston’s junior infielder Connor McGinnis (17) strikes out swinging in an NCAA baseball game on Saturday, May 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Ashton Grissom/The Cougar

Houston baseball junior infielder Connor McGinnis was selected 314th overall by the New York Yankees in the 10th round of the 2025 MLB Draft on Monday.

The 2024 JuCo national champion with Blinn College batted .343 and posted a 1.060 OPS with 19 extra-base hits, 18 walks drawn and 25 runs batted in across 31 games for Houston in 2025, helping the Cougars improve their Big 12 conference win total by five games and leading them to their first Big 12 tournament appearance two seasons into its conference tenure.

Despite a four-week absence due to injury, McGinnis arrived back in time to help clinch Houston’s spot in the conference tournament as the No. 11 seed and led it to a 9-2 opening round upset win over No. 6 seed Kansas State, as he went 3-for-5 with two doubles.

The MLB draft pick signing deadline is on Monday, July 28 at 4 p.m. CST.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Yankees select Connor McGinnis in 10th round of 2025 MLB Draft” was originally posted on The Cougar

Some living in the University of Minnesota area still feel crime is high, despite crime levels declining. 

Crime during the coronavirus pandemic reached an all-time high in the Dinkytown and Marcy-Holmes area. Since then, crime has consistently decreased with all forms of crime down from 2024-25, according to the crime dashboard.

The University took the initiative with this increase, adding more cameras in the area, more blue light kiosks and more street lighting to help prevent violent crimes. 

This past year, the University added a safety center in Dinkytown. The Off-Campus Safety Center features resources for students and acts as a general hub for safety in an area that has struggled in the past. 

Burglary, theft, motor theft and vandalism are the most common crimes around campus. All four of the most common crimes are down from last year, with the exception of burglary, which has decreased in the last three years but had a slight increase of about 14% in 2025.

Theft has decreased by about 17%, motor theft has decreased by about 35% and vandalism/property damage by about 18% over the past year, according to the crime dashboard for Ward 2. 

There was a 60% drop in violent crime from 2021 to 2023 in Dinkytown, according to the crime dashboard for Ward 2. 

University of Minnesota Police Department and the Minneapolis Police Department have also been working closely together, with UMPD offering officers and camera surveillance to the MPD for use. 

Ward 2, encompassing the Dinkytown, Marcy Holmes, Como and Prospect Park areas, has seen a decrease in crime across the board, according to MPD spokesperson Sergeant Garrett Parten.

“Overall, crime is down, with the exception of two more assaults and four more burglaries reported in the Como neighborhood,” Parten said. 

The Off-Campus Safety Center is open to students during the day and is accessible with a U card. This building is not accessible to those who are not students and faculty at the University. 

East Bank neighborhood Chris Lautenschlager said it is not a bad mark on Dinkytown to have a safety center in the area. 

“I wish they could have expanded the hours and services to other people besides university students,”  Lautenschlager said.

Those who are not students and live in Dinkytown, Marcy-Holmes and Como are unable to access or report crimes at the safety center, limiting resources to only students living in the area, Lautenschlager added. 

Although crime is down in the University area, the way crime is discussed is at a high, according to Launtenschlager.

“People still feel like crime is running rampant throughout the streets of Minneapolis,” Launtenschlager said. “People point out specific crimes and amplify it via their Twitter feeds or blue sky or Facebook accounts.” 

With social media usage at an all-time high, the impression of Minneapolis crime can come from media and not actual crime statistics, added Lautenschlager. This trend can misconstrue the image of Minneapolis crime,  Lautenschlager said.

“There will be some people online who just want to amplify it and say the Dinkytown area and Minneapolis have gone to hell,”  Lautenschlager said.

“MPD consistently evaluates and discusses crime data and individual cases to identify areas where crime is concentrated. Based on this analysis, decisions are made regarding the deployment of resources to address emerging trends,”  Parten said.

Chelsea lifted the trophy, but it’s the questions off the pitch that may have the greatest long-term significance.

With Sunday’s resounding victory over Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in Rutherford, New Jersey, Chelsea became the first European champion of FIFA’s expanded 32-team Club World Cup. However, despite the glitz of the tournament, which spanned over four weeks and multiple U.S. cities, the concerns that emerged off the field may prove to be its most lasting legacy as North America prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

From oppressive heat to travel nightmares and questionable playing surfaces, the 2025 Club World Cup offered FIFA an unfiltered look at the potential pitfalls of hosting the world’s biggest sporting event across three vast countries — the United States, Mexico and Canada — next summer.

Weather takes center stage

More than any tactical storyline or individual performance, the weather was the defining issue of the tournament. Early afternoon matches in cities like Philadelphia and Miami subjected players to dangerous heat and humidity.

FIFA faces a tough scheduling dilemma ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With four games per day early in the tournament and up to six during the group stage’s final rounds, late kickoffs in climate-controlled stadiums won’t be feasible for every match. Fairness will be in question if some nations play in ideal conditions while others wilt in the sun.

Travel and infrastructure under strain

The Club World Cup also revealed the logistical challenges of hosting games across the continental U.S. Teams and media battled delayed flights, congested highways and public transportation gaps — issues that could worsen next year with 48 national teams and hundreds of thousands of traveling fans.

Weather-related flight delays disrupted Real Madrid’s semifinal preparations. Fans and journalists often arrived late to matches, including a widely reported fiasco at the Rose Bowl where several reporters missed the first half of PSG vs. Atlético Madrid due to gridlocked traffic.

Even with official transport options, including shuttle buses and special trains, getting in and out of venues like MetLife, Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium and AT&T Stadium in Dallas proved unpredictable and, at times, chaotic.

Surface tension: the turf war continues

Player complaints about pitch quality were widespread. Five of the venues — including Seattle’s Lumen Field and Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium — typically feature artificial turf and require last-minute natural grass installations. FIFA insists all 2026 matches will be played on natural grass and so experimented with transporting refrigerated Bermuda grass to upgrade the fields in the U.S. But with several stadiums featuring fixed roofs or poor sunlight access, sustaining high-quality surfaces for a month-long tournament remains a major concern.

A physically and mentally draining toll

The tournament schedule raised additional alarms. With many clubs arriving just weeks after grueling seasons, signs of fatigue were everywhere. All of the four Brazilian teams (Flamengo, Palmeiras, Fluminense, Botafogo) came in off 70-match campaigns, while Chelsea and Manchester City logged 57 each. The quick turnaround left players vulnerable to injury, and many stars now head into the 2025-26 season in August without the usual summer recovery period.

MLS players, midseason and relatively fresh, had a physical advantage, but for Europe’s elite — and national teams eyeing the 2026 World Cup — the toll of the Club World Cup may be felt in the months ahead.

Lessons for the future

For FIFA, the expanded Club World Cup served as a dry run. But the experiment exposed systemic cracks that must be addressed before next summer’s 48-team World Cup that kicks off on June 11, 2026.

To make the tournament a success, organizers will need to prioritize player welfare, optimize travel logistics, improve pitch conditions and, most crucially, adapt schedules that prioritize fairness over television ratings.

The Club World Cup may be over, but the real work has only just begun.

c.cowles@dailyutahchronicle.com

@ccowleschrony.bsky.social

The post Chelsea Wins Club World Cup, Problems Still Loom Large first appeared on The Daily Utah Chronicle.

Eugene sits on the ancestral homeland of the Kalapuya people. I know that because I’ve heard the land acknowledgment dozens of times: before lectures, in campus emails and at university events. But I still find myself asking: Do we truly understand what these statements mean?

Land acknowledgments are meant to recognize Indigenous people and the history of the land now occupied by government institutions, such as the university. But when they’re read out of obligation before an event or tucked in the bottom of an administrator’s email, they start to feel more like a requirement than a sign of respect. If no one really hears them or even reads them, how meaningful can they be?

On the OregonNews website, The University of Oregon lists different programs meant to support Indigenous students and build relationships with Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes (Burns Paiute, Coquille, Cow Creek Band of Umpqua, the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw, Grand Ronde, Siletz, Umatilla, Warm Spring and the Klamath). From building the Many Nations Longhouse on campus to signing a memorandum of understanding, the university counts these achievements as proof that it’s supporting Indigenous communities and honoring its commitments.

While these partnerships do point towards a deeper engagement and acknowledgment of Indigenous land, the recognition is louder than the tangible support that is given. 

This isn’t just a problem with UO; Sophia Takahashi-Rosales, a student attending Oregon State University, shared similar concerns — that land acknowledgments often feel performative and tend to lack context or follow-through.

“I feel neutral toward land acknowledgments. I think they can bring awareness, but the execution is often half-baked and feels performative. It’s great that the past is acknowledged, but at the same time, nothing is being done to counteract it,” Takahashi said.

So what could tangible support look like? It might be redirecting a portion of university endowments or grants to Indigenous student programs and tribal organizations. It could mean hiring more Indigenous faculty or consulting tribal leaders when shaping university land-use policies; there are lots of things the university could do. 

While the University of Oregon does showcase the Many Nations Longhouse building as a symbol of commitment and support to Indigenous communities, progress requires more than symbolic gestures. Although the Many Nations Longhouse building was constructed in 2004 with state funds, university donations and private donations, today the Longhouse building relies on fundraising, such as the Native Duck Fund’s $10,000 goal, to provide essential support for Indigenous students.

The Many Nations Longhouse Building holds cultural importance; it’s a place for students to find community and support. But when a university’s most visible investment in Indigenous students depends on outside donors instead of getting more funding, I find myself asking: Are we really honoring Indigenous communities or just appearing to?

 These productive actions to acknowledge Indigenous communities don’t erase history, but they do show an effort to build equitable futures for Indigenous students, shifting from performative gestures to more tangible change. 

Land acknowledgments aren’t at their core empty, but when they’re used as the only gesture of support for Indigenous communities, they tend to reduce the deep history into a half-baked mandated speech. If we’re going to do land acknowledgments, we should also be asking: What else can we do?

Because for an acknowledgment to matter, it shouldn’t be the last thing copied and pasted in an email.

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