BLOUNTVILLE – The Wynn blew at just the right time for David Crockett. Autumn Wynn connected on six points to open the fourth quarter to help the Pioneers pull away in a 51-41 non-conference win over West Ridge on Tuesday night at the Evelyn Rafalowski Athletic Complex. "We had a sluggish first half. I think for the game we missed 12 or 13 layups, which is uncharacteristic for us at the moment," David Crockett head coach Thomas Gouge said. "The girls responded. We talked about defense and they came out and responded in the second half. We held a very good offensive team to 12 points in the second half." Brylee Tullock led unbeaten David Crockett (8-0) with 21 points, including seven in the final period, as the Pioneers outscored the Wolves 16-6 in the final period. "Autumn had a great game," Gouge said. "Brylee was penetrating and she dumped it off to Autumn and Autumn made three big baskets that really sparked us." West Ridge (4-6) led 35-33 late in the third quarter before Aaliyah Story tied the score at 35-all going into the final period. Allie Reilly tied the score at 37-37 early in the fourth before Wynn connected on two more buckets, as the Pioneers pulled away from the cold-shooting Wolves. "I thought we did a very good job in the first half. The third quarter we had a chance to go up by even more and just missed opportunities and kept turning the ball over and gave them opportunities to get back in the ball game," West Ridge head coach Kristi Walling said. "We let them get back in it and in the fourth quarter we let it get away." Story had eight points for David Crockett, while Kayleigh Doner and Wynn had seven apiece. West Ridge was led by Millie Shelton, who went to the basket to finish with 12 points. "That is something that she can do, but she is one we have to tell to score," Walling said. "They weren't really guarding her so we told her she had to be more aggressive and she did a good job of getting to the basket." Carter Jones added 11 points and Reilly had eight for the Wolves. "I feel good about where we are at. I feel like we are getting there," Walling said. "There are still little mistakes that have got to fix. Our schedule has been tough, that was by design so we hope these games get you better and see what you need to improve on to get you ready for conference play." Stay Informed: Subscribe to Our Newsletter TodayKing and PM honour former US president Jimmy Carter after his death aged 100Linq Blue Automates and Personalizes iMessage Outreach to Boost Engagement and Efficiency BIRMINGHAM, Ala. , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Linq, the world's leading mobile CRM and lead capture platform, announces Linq Blue — an iMessage automation tool designed to revolutionize sales communication. This breakthrough feature empowers businesses to automate and personalize customer outreach via iMessage—without requiring an iPhone. Launching January 2025 , Linq Blue offers seamless messaging capabilities that drive higher response rates and unlock new levels of sales efficiency. Why Linq Blue is a Game-Changer Enhanced Engagement : iMessage campaigns have been shown to increase response rates by 29% over traditional SMS outreach. Seamless CRM Integration : Linq Blue integrates with popular CRM platforms such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Microsoft Dynamics, allowing users to manage iMessage communications directly from their existing workflows. Device-Agnostic iMessage Campaigns : Users can send blue text campaigns from any device, including Android, by utilizing a dedicated phone number provided by Linq. Advanced Automation : Users can schedule messages, create sequences and campaigns, and automate confirmation messages to streamline customer interactions. Unlimited Messaging : Linq Blue offers unlimited messaging capabilities, enhancing communication. Reserve Your Spot Today Linq Blue is now open for early access reservations to a closed beta. Learn more and reserve your spot at https://linqapp.com/s/imessage-automation/ About Linq: Founded in Birmingham, AL , Linq is a rapidly growing tech company that transforms the way businesses manage contacts, relationships, and workflows. With a focus on mobile-first solutions, Linq integrates seamlessly with existing CRM platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot, offering an easy-to-use interface that enables teams to work effectively, no matter where they are. For more information, visit www.linqapp.com . SOURCE Linq
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday named Andrew Ferguson as the next chair of the Federal Trade Commission. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday named Andrew Ferguson as the next chair of the Federal Trade Commission. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday named Andrew Ferguson as the next chair of the Federal Trade Commission. He will replace Lina Khan, who became a lightning rod for Wall Street and Silicon Valley by blocking billions of dollars’ worth of corporate acquisitions and suing Amazon and Meta while alleging anticompetitive behavior. It was one of several evening announcements Trump made via his social media platform, including that he was naming Kimberly Guilfoyle as Ambassador to Greece, a longtime supporter who was engaged to his son Don Jr., and ally and former inaugural chairman Tom Barrack as Ambassador to Turkey. Ferguson is already one of the FTC’s five commissioners, which is currently made up of three Democrats and two Republicans. “Andrew has a proven record of standing up to Big Tech censorship, and protecting Freedom of Speech in our Great Country,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding, “Andrew will be the most America First, and pro-innovation FTC Chair in our Country’s History.” The replacement of Khan likely means that the FTC will operate with a lighter touch when it comes to antitrust enforcement. The new chair is expected to appoint new directors of the FTC’s antitrust and consumer protection divisions. “These changes likely will make the FTC more favorable to business than it has been in recent years, though the extent to which is to be determined,” wrote Anthony DiResta, a consumer protection attorney at Holland & Knight, in a recent analysis. Deals that were blocked by the Biden administration could find new life with Trump in command. For example, the new leadership could be more open to a proposed merger between the country’s two biggest supermarket chains, Kroger and Albertsons, which forged a $24.6 billion deal to combine in 2022. Two judges halted the merger Tuesday night. The FTC had filed a lawsuit in federal court earlier this year to block the merger, claiming the deal would eliminate competition, leading to higher prices and lower wages for workers. The two companies say a merger would help them lower prices and compete against bigger rivals like Walmart. One of the judges said the FTC had shown it was likely to prevail in the administrative hearing. Yet given the widespread public concern over high grocery prices, the Trump administration may not fully abandon the FTC’s efforts to block the deal, some experts have said. And the FTC may continue to scrutinize Big Tech firms for any anticompetitive behavior. Many Republican politicians have accused firms such as Meta of censoring conservative views, and some officials in Trump’s orbit, most notably Vice President-elect JD Vance, have previously expressed support for Khan’s scrutiny of Big Tech firms. Barrack, a wealthy financier, met Trump in the 1980s while helping negotiate Trump’s purchase of the renowned Plaza Hotel. He was charged with using his personal access to the former president to secretly promote the interests of the United Arab Emirates, but was acquitted of all counts at a federal trial in 2022. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Trump called him a “well-respected and experienced voice of reason.” Guilfoyle is a former California prosecutor and television news personality who led the fundraising for Trump’s 2020 campaign. Trump called her “a close friend and ally,” and praised her “sharp intellect make her supremely qualified.” She had been engaged to Don Jr. since 2020, they arrived together at the convention center on election night and she was on stage with the family. “I am so proud of Kimberly. She loves America and she always has wanted to serve the country as an Ambassador. She will be an amazing leader for America First,” Don Jr. posted. Trump also announced Tuesday that he had selected Jacob Helberg as the next undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, and Dan Bishop as deputy director for budget at the Office of Budget and Management. ___ Advertisement AdvertisementNEW YORK , Dec. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of Dentsply Sirona Inc. (NASDAQ: XRAY) between December 1, 2022 and November 6, 2024 , both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important January 27, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
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DJ Alfredo dies as heartbroken fans pay tribute to Ibiza legend who 'changed world of music'Canada introduced seven major changes to its international student route in 2024 which aligns with the government’s aim of scaling back the number of temporary residents. The major changes include updates, closures, caps and new rules. For example, there were updates on the eligibility criteria for post-graduation work permits (PGWPs), cost of living requirement, and regulations for open work permits for spouses of students. In addition, there were caps on study permit applications, as well as stricter rules for study permits and off-campus work hours for international students. Additionally, the student direct stream and the Nigeria student express route were closed in 2024. Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration Minister had this to say about the adjustments to its temporary resident pathway: “To be clear, all newcomers are valued in Canada. They contribute to Canada’s economic, social and cultural fabric. Our economic future depends on those we bring to Canada”. “But we also need to recognize that this can impact communities, such as the increases in unemployment amongst youth and newcomers... for the first time in Canadian history, we will include targets for temporary residents in addition to permanent residents in our annual immigration levels planning”. “First, we will reduce the target on study permits issued by 10 percent in 2025 and 2026 compared to 2024. This means we aim to issue up to 437,000 study permits in both 2025 and 2026, which would represent about a 36 percent decrease from 2023”. Here are some of these changes in detail: Curriculum licensing agreements: Starting in September, international students in programs under a curriculum licensing agreement were no longer eligible for PGWPs. The deadline for this change was later moved up to May 15. Three-year PGWPs for master’s degree students: Graduates of Master’s degree programs became eligible for three-year work permits from February 15. This benefits students with shorter programs, giving them more time for work experience and potential permanent residency. Language requirements for PGWP applicants: From November 1, PGWP applicants had to meet specific Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scores—7 for university graduates and 5 for college graduates. Field of study requirements for PGWP eligibility: From September 18, only students graduating from fields linked to long-term occupational shortages were eligible for PGWPs. This does not apply to Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral graduates from universities. The fields of study linked to fields with long-term shortages are Agriculture and Agri-food, Healthcare, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Trade and Transport. International students who applied for study permits before November 1, 2024, are exempt from the field of study requirements for PGWP eligibility. However, if they apply for a new study permit after this date, such as when changing schools or programs, the field of study requirement will then apply. Updated cost of living requirement As of January 1, 2024, IRCC increased the cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants. The new requirement for a single applicant doubled from $10,000 to $20,635. Applicants must have these funds in addition to covering their first-year tuition and travel costs. This new requirement applies to all study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024. Closure of the Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express On November 8, IRCC announced the immediate closure of the Student Direct Stream (SDS). Launched in 2018, SDS aimed to expedite study permit applications for students from 14 countries, including India, China, Pakistan, and the Philippines, with a standard processing time of 20 calendar days. However, typical processing times vary by country, often taking much longer. For example, the current processing time for a study permit from Pakistan is 10 weeks. Simultaneously, IRCC also terminated the Nigeria Student Express (NSE) program, which provided a similar expedited service for Nigerian applicants. Cap on study permit applications On January 22, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new intake cap for international student study permit applications. This cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved new study permits for 2024, representing a 35 per cent decrease from the previous year. In April, Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration Minister, clarified that the target for approved study permits in 2024 is 485,000. The figure of 360,000 accounts for the anticipated 97,000 extension applications and includes a buffer for other variations. On September 18, IRCC announced a further reduction in the number of study permits for 2025, based on a 10 per cent decrease from the 2024 target of 485,000. Therefore, 437,000 study permits will be issued in 2025. The Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-27, released in October, outlined targets for temporary residents, including international students, arriving in 2025, 2026, and 2027. The target for new international student arrivals in 2025 is set at 305,900. This applies only to new arrivals and does not include study permit renewals or extensions for students already in Canada. Stricter rules for study permits To manage the new intake cap for international student study permits, IRCC introduced Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) on January 22, 2024. These letters, issued by provinces and territories, verify that an international student has a credible admission and falls within the new cap limits. As of January 22, 2024, all study permit applications require an attestation letter. However, in March, IRCC announced exemptions for specific student categories. PALs are necessary for most post-secondary applicants, non-degree granting graduate programs, and any international student not on the exemption list. Exemptions include primary and secondary school students, Master’s or doctoral students, in-Canada visiting or exchange students at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), existing study and work permit holders, and family members of permit holders. Additionally, students already approved for a study permit or whose applications were received before January 22, 2024, at 8:30 am EST are exempt. On September 18, IRCC also mandated that Master’s and PhD students must obtain PALs. New requirements for international students changing schools On April 29, the temporary pandemic measures allowing international students to work over 20 hours per week ended. The pre-pandemic limit of 20 hours per week off-campus during academic terms was reinstated but increased to 24 hours per week from November 15. As of November 15, international students wishing to change schools needed to apply for a new study permit. Previously, students could change schools on the same permit by updating their status online. As of December 13, international students transferring schools for winter or spring 2025 could start studying before receiving a new study permit, provided they applied for it. It was re-iterated that college and university vocational students change programs and apply for a new study permit after November 1 must meet field of study requirements. Updated regulations for open work permits for spouses On January 22, IRCC introduced new restrictions on spousal open work permits for international students. These permits are now limited to spouses of students enrolled in Master’s and Doctoral programs. Previously, spouses of students in college and undergraduate programs were eligible. As of March 19, a new policy was implemented, with IRCC also announcing exceptions for specific undergraduate programs. Spouses or partners of students in professional degree programs in the medical, and engineering fields and education degrees at a university remain eligible for spousal open work permits. These fields and programs are: – Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD) – Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL) – Doctor of Medicine (MD) – Doctor of Optometry (OD) – Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm) – Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc) – Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.) – Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng., BE, BASc) In September, Further restrictions were announced, limiting open work permit eligibility to spouses of Master’s degree students enrolled in programs lasting at least 16 months. This policy has not yet come into effect.Key Indicator Flips to Bullish for DOGE, SOL, and DOGEN—Will Their Prices Ignite a Fresh Parabolic Surge Toward the All-Time High?Biden says he was ‘stupid’ not to put his name on pandemic relief checks like Trump did
(The Center Square) – State and national officials lauded former President Jimmy Carter for his public service after learning of his death Sunday afternoon at the age of 100. President Joe Biden said an official state funeral would be held for Carter in Washington. "He was a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism," Biden said. "We will always cherish seeing him and Rosalynn together. The love shared between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter is the definition of partnership and their humble leadership is the definition of patriotism." President-elect Donald Trump urged everyone to keep the Carter family in their thoughts and prayers. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans," Trump said in a statement released from his campaign. "For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude." Former president Bill Clinton gave Carter and his wife Rosalynn the Medal of Freedom in 1999. "From his commitment to civil rights as a state senator and governor of Georgia; to his efforts as President to protect our natural resources in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, make energy conservation a national priority, return the Panama Canal to Panama, and secure peace between Egypt and Israel at Camp David; to his post-presidential efforts at the Carter Center supporting honest elections, advancing peace combating disease, and promoting democracy; to his and Rosalynn's devotion and hard work at Habitat for Humanity--he worked tirelessly for a fairer, better world," Clinton and his wife Hillary said in a statement. Former president George W. Bush hailed Carter as a man of deeply held convictions. "President Carter dignified the office," Bush said on social media. "And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn't end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations." Carter served as Georgia's governor from 1971-1975 before becoming president. Under his leadership, the European and Japanese state trade offices were launched, as well as the Georgia Film Commission," Gov. Brian Kemp said. "He and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter's support of the civil rights movement in the place of its birth is also remembered with deep appreciation." Lt. Gov. Burt Jones said Carter exemplified what it meant to be a public servant. "I had the honor of meeting him and his wife, and I will never forget that day," Jones said. "They were kind, wonderful, accepting and exactly what they portrayed every day, two people devoted to lifting up those in their community who needed help the most. President Carter's legacy will live on in the numerous nonprofits, charities and organizations Rosalynn, his family and him started."Retail Market in Indonesia to Expand by USD 49.56 Billion (2024-2028), Driven by Retail Growth and AI-Redefined Market Landscape - Technavio