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WASHINGTON — As first reported by the AP, every day over the past few weeks, the Pentagon has faced questions from angry lawmakers, local leaders and citizens over the removal of military heroes and historic mentions from Defense Department websites and social media pages after it purged online content that promoted women or minorities . In response, the department has scrambled to restore a handful of those posts as their removals have come to light. While the pages of some well-known veterans, including baseball and civil rights icon Jackie Robinson , are now back up on Pentagon websites, officials warn that many posts tagged for removal in error may be gone forever. The restoration process has been so hit or miss that even groups that the administration has said are protected, like the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military pilots who served in a segregated World War II unit, still have deleted pages that as of Saturday had not been restored . This past week chief, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a video that mistaken removals will be quickly rectified. “History is not DEI,” he said, referring to diversity, equity and inclusion. Pentagon restores histories of Navajo Code Talkers, other Native veterans after public outcry Defense Department webpage on Jackie Robinson goes down, then returns amid DEI purge War heroes and military firsts are among 26,000 images flagged for removal in Pentagon's DEI purge But due to the enormous size of the military and the wide range of commands, units and bases, there has been an array of interpretations of what to remove and how as part of the Pentagon directive to delete online content that promotes DEI. Officials from across the military services said they have asked for additional guidance from the Pentagon on what should be restored, but have yet to receive any. The officials, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to describe internal deliberations, said, for example, they were waiting for guidance on whether military “firsts” count as history that can be restored. The first female Army Reserve graduate of Ranger School, Maj. Lisa Jaster, or the first female fighter pilot, Air Force Maj. Gen. Jeannie Leavitt, both had their stories deleted. Some officials said their understanding was it did not matter whether it was a historic first. If the first was based on what Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth found to be a disqualifying characteristic, such as gender or race, it had to go, they said. One Army team has taken a very deliberate approach. According to the officials, the team took down several major historical heritage sites that had many postings about women and various ethnic or racial groups. They are now going through them all and plan to rework and repost as much as possible on a new website focused on Army heroes. The process, the officials said, could take months. Overall, tens of thousands of online posts that randomly mention dozens of key words, including “gay,” “bias” and “female” — have been deleted. Officials warn that the bulk of those images are gone for good. Even as complaints roll in, officials will be careful about restoring things unless senior leaders approve. The officials described the behind-the-scenes process as challenging, frustrating and emotionally draining. Workers going through years of posts to take down mentions of historic accomplishments by women or minorities were at times reduced to tears or lashed out in anger at commanders directing the duty, the officials said. Others were forced to pull down stories they were proud of and had worked on themselves. They were often confused about the parameters for removal once a key word was found, and they erred on the side of removal, according to the officials. Not complying fully with the order was seen as dangerous because it could put senior military service leaders at risk of being fired or disciplined if an errant post celebrating diversity was left up and found. Officials said the department relied in large part on a blind approach — using artificial intelligence computer commands to search for dozens of those key words in online department, military and command websites. If a story or photo depicted or included one of the terms, the computer program then added “DEI” into the web address of the content, which flagged it and led to its removal. Purging posts from X, Facebook and other social media sites is more complicated and time intensive. An AI command would not work as well on those sites. So military service members and civilians have evaluated social media posts by hand, working late into the night and on weekends to pore over their unit’s social media pages, cataloging and deleting references going back years. Because some civilians were not allowed to work on weekends, military troops had to be called in to replace them, as the officials described it. The Defense Department is publicly insisting that mistakes will be corrected. As an example, the Pentagon on Wednesday restored some pages highlighting the crucial wartime contributions of Navajo Code Talkers and other Native American veterans. That step came days after tribes condemned the removal. Department officials said the Navajo Code Talker material was erroneously erased. The previous week, pages honoring a Black Medal of Honor winner and Japanese American service members were also restored. The restorations represent a shift from early, adamant denials that any deletion of things such as the Enola Gay or prominent service members was happening at all. At least two images of the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, during World War II, are still missing. “This is fake news and anyone with a pulse knows it!” the Defense Department’s new “Rapid Response” social media account asserted March 7. “We are NOT removing images of the Enola Gay or any other pictures that honor the legacy of our warfighters.” Over time, the Pentagon has shifted its public response as more examples of deleted pages came to light. On Thursday, Parnell acknowledged in a video posted online that: “Because of the realities of AI tools and other software, some important content was incorrectly pulled off line to be reviewed. We want to be very, very clear: History is not DEI. When content is either mistakenly removed, or if it’s maliciously removed, we continue to work quickly to restore it.” But others have seen the widespread erasure of history. “Most female aviator stories and photographs are disappearing—including from the archives. From the WASPs to fighter pilots, @AFThunderbirds to @BlueAngels —they’ve erased us,” Carey Lohrenz , one of the Navy’s first female F-14 Tomcat pilots, posted to X. “It’s an across the board devastating loss of history and information.” Among the webpages removed include one about the Women Air Service Pilots, or WASPs, the female World War II pilots who were vital in ferrying warplanes for the military, and the Air Force Thunderbirds. Parnell, Hegseth and others have vigorously defended the sweeping purge despite the flaws. “I think the president and the secretary have been very clear on this — that anybody that says in the Department of Defense that diversity is our strength is, is frankly, incorrect,” Parnell said during a Pentagon media briefing. “Our shared purpose and unity are our strength.”

SBA will restructure to eliminate wasteful spending, restore mission of empowering small businesses WASHINGTON, - Today, pursuant to EO 14210 , the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its plans for an agency-wide reorganization. To return to its founding mission of empowering small businesses, and to restore accountability to taxpayers, the agency will reduce its workforce by 43% – ending the expansive social policy agenda of the prior Administration, eliminating non-essential roles, and returning to pre-pandemic staffing levels. The strategic reorganization will begin a turnaround for the agency by restoring the efficiency of the first Trump Administration, as well as its focus on promoting small businesses. Core services to the public, including the agency’s loan guarantee and disaster assistance programs, as well as its field and veteran operations, will not be impacted. The SBA’s reorganization will enable the agency to become a dynamic and efficient force for small businesses, manufacturing, and job creation in support of President Trump’s economic agenda. SBA will refocus its resources on the core missions of supplying capital, fostering innovation, supporting veteran small business owners, providing field support, and delivering timely disaster relief. Key features of SBA’s reorganization include: Promoting business formation and growth by shifting resources to expand capital formation functions and personnel, removing the emphasis from partisan programs of the past. Prioritizing risk management and fraud prevention by centralizing these functions within the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, in the effort to restore integrity to agency programs, audits, and financial statements. Expanding disaster response support by transferring disaster loan servicing functions and additional personnel into the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. Additionally, the agency will cross-train field office personnel to support disaster recovery efforts. Eliminating redundant pandemic-era positions associated exclusively with processing pandemic-era loans within the Office of Capital Access. Ensuring that 30% of the agency is located in the field , by decentralizing services and working to better serve Main Streets across America. Promoting veteran businesses and American manufacturing by preserving existing staffing levels within the Office of Veterans Business Development and the Office of Manufacturing and Trade. Exempting key accountability offices from reductions at this time including the Office of Advocacy and the Office of the Inspector General. Much of the reorganization is targeted to reverse the broad and costly expansion of the SBA under the Biden Administration. Since the pandemic, the agency has nearly doubled in size, in part to support a suite of new progressive programs like the Green Lender Initiative, the Community Navigator Pilot Program, and DEI activities. This partisan agenda, promoted at the expense of America’s small businesses, predictably led to the deterioration of SBA’s services and financial performance. An estimated $200 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Covid Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) fraud was ignored for four years. Meanwhile, irresponsible Biden-era changes to the 7(a) loan program generated rising defaults and delinquencies, as well as negative cash flow for the first time in over a decade – which will have future, multi-year consequences for the program. “The SBA was created to be a launchpad for America’s small businesses by offering access to capital, which in turn drives job creation, innovation, and a thriving Main Street. But in the last four years, the agency has veered off track – doubling in size and turning into a sprawling leviathan plagued by mission creep, financial mismanagement, and waste. Instead of serving small businesses, the SBA served a partisan political agenda – expanding in size, scope, and spending,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “Just like the small business owners we support, we must do more with less. We have therefore submitted plans to pursue a strategic restructuring that will realign the agency and its resources with our founding mission. By eliminating non-mission-critical positions and consolidating functions, we will revert to the staffing levels of the last Trump Administration, which supported a historic economic boom. We will return our focus to driving private sector growth and delivering disaster relief with accountability, efficiency, and results.” Under the reorganization plan, the agency will eliminate approximately 2,700 active positions out of a total active workforce of nearly 6,500 through voluntary resignations, the expiration of COVID-era and other term appointments, and a limited number of reductions in force (RIFs). The average salary of an SBA employee is over $132,000 – more than double the national average wage. The reduction in workforce will save taxpayers more than $435 million annually by FY26. SBA’s reorganization plan will provide for the preservation of public services through a strategic transfer of duties. It will be actioned in the coming weeks.

The Free Concert, Held at the University of Miami on April 8, 2025, Will be Emceed by University of Miami Alumnus and TV Host and Producer Jason Kennedy CORAL GABLES, FL,- Today, the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami announced the first lineup of distinguished alumni set to perform legendary hits spanning the decades at the Centennial Celebration Concert on Tuesday, April 8: Bruce Hornsby performing “The Way it Is;” Jon Secada performing “Just Another Day;” Ben Folds performing “Theme from ‘Dr. Pyser;’” Metheny Medley performing “Have You Heard” and “Are You Going With Me;" Joshua Henry performing “The Room Where it Happens” from “Hamilton;” and Idarose performing “Glimpse of Us.” The multigenerational, award-winning artists will be welcomed to the stage by fellow University of Miami alumnus and renowned TV host and producer, Jason Kennedy . Free and open to the public, the Centennial Celebration Concert will take place at 7 p.m. on the Lakeside Patio at the University of Miami’s Coral Gables Campus. The Centennial Celebration Concert will occur exactly 100 years from the day the University of Miami signed its charter in 1925 and prepared to later welcome its first class of students in the fall of 1926. At the time of its founding, the University of Miami comprised just two schools, including the Conservatory of Music, which was later renamed the Frost School of Music, and the evening division. Now, 100 years later, the University of Miami includes 12 schools and colleges, serving more than 19,000 undergraduate and graduate students in more than 180 majors and programs, and has more than 200,000 alumni with degrees from the highly acclaimed institution. Dean Shelton G. “Shelly” Berg of the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami said, “From the beginning, music has been integral to the University of Miami’s identity. We were there when the University was establishing its reputation, and today, the Frost School of Music continues to exemplify the promise and prestige of a University of Miami education.” Added Dean Berg, “The Frost School of Music and University of Miami boast a powerful, invaluable alumni network. That’s part of the promise and immeasurable benefit of attending school here, and it’s why so many of these incredible alumni, from across multiple generations, will be with us to commemorate the centennial milestone on April 8 and help us celebrate the bright and bold future we’re forging together.” On Tuesday, April 8, the Centennial Celebration festivities kick off with a Canes Carnival, featuring rides, games, and music on the Foote Green starting at 5 p.m. Festival attendees can also enjoy the Centennial Block Party from 5 to 9 p.m., with complimentary food stations along Miller Circle from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Like the Centennial Celebration Concert, the Canes Carnival and Centennial Block Party are free and open to the public. The entire celebration is organized by the University’s Centennial Working Group and Honorary Committee, composed of alumni, students, faculty and staff members, and trustees, with the Centennial Celebration Concert organized by Frost School of Music Dean Shelly Berg. More information on the events can be found on the University’s centennial website at 100.miami.edu . The theme for the University of Miami’s centennial year is “The Future is U,” an homage to the institution’s upward trajectory, its network of more than 200,000 alumni, and the forward-thinking vision that has positioned the University among the top research institutions in the country. University of Miami Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Alumni Engagement and Chair of the Centennial Working Committee Patricia A. Whitely said, “The University of Miami’s 100-year legacy as a leading institution is extraordinary. Our community is eager to celebrate a century of achievement while looking ahead to the future we will shape together. The start of our centennial celebration heralds even greater successes, innovations, and milestones for the University. That’s why it’s only fitting that we come together en masse here in Coral Gables, with University of Miami students and alumni also set to join us remotely from across the globe for this truly historic landmark moment.” Throughout 2025, the University of Miami and its schools, including the Frost School of Music, will continue to celebrate historic achievements from the past 100 years as they look ahead to the next century, with many of the festivities featuring students, alumni, faculty and staff members, donors, and other esteemed community members. On April 8, the Frost School of Music will honor 144 alumni artists, leaders, and visionaries with Frost School Centennial Medals. The first Centennial Medals were presented to more than 21 Frost School alumni at the opening of the state-of-the-art Knight Center for Music Innovation. Previous honorees include Emilio Estefan, Gloria Estefan, Lee Levin, Dawnn Lewis, Carmen Lundy, and Jon Secada, among others. Added Dean Berg, “Setting a new standard for what makes a great music school has long been a hallmark of the Frost School of Music. Our legacy is shaped by those who have made outstanding contributions to the school and the music world and whose messages have resonated at critical and emotional times. As we prepare to embark on our next century, it’s our pleasure to be able to bestow Frost School Centennial Medals on so many of our alumni and other esteemed supporters who’ve amplified the Frost School’s efforts to create, cultivate, and enhance the future of music to benefit musicians today and into the future.”

KENOSHA, Wis- CHERRY, a leading manufacturer of high-quality computer peripherals, is expanding its portfolio with a major innovation in gaming audio: the CHERRY XTRFY H3 Wireless . This all-purpose wireless gaming headset combines pro-level sound, multiple EQ modes for everyday use, and versatile wireless connectivity, making it an ideal choice for both professional gamers and casual users. The H3 Wireless Headset marks CHERRY XTRFY's entry into the wireless headset market. Built for gaming, it immerses players in the action with esports-tuned sound. The headset builds on the audio precision of the H1 and H2 models, developed in collaboration with professional players. Its 53mm drivers amplify key in-game sounds, keeping players one step ahead of the competition. "This headset is perfect for FPS games. I’ve been using it with CS2, and its directional audio really stands out, making it easier to pinpoint enemies and read the game. The fit is excellent, and it’s incredibly comfortable for long sessions," says Emil "HeatoN" Christensen, eight-time Counter-Strike world champion and the first inductee into the Esports Hall of Fame. Joakim Jansson, Head of Product Management at CHERRY, adds: "We're excited to finally launch the H3 Wireless, a headset that truly has it all. It delivers the performance and precision serious players need, while offering both a low-latency wireless dongle for gaming and Bluetooth connectivity for everyday use. Whether you're gaming, watching movies, or listening to music, the H3 Wireless adapts to any situation." Featuring ultra-low latency wireless, precision-tuned 53mm drivers, and memory foam ear cushions for all-day comfort.CHERRY XTRFY H3 Wireless Headset | Picture: CHERRY XTRFY With dual wireless connectivity, the H3 Wireless is perfect for any setup, whether at a gaming desk, connected to a console by the TV, or used on the go. Gamers can enjoy lag-free, ultra-responsive audio with the included low-latency USB dongle, while Bluetooth mode allows for effortless pairing with mobile devices. Customizable EQ modes let users fine-tune their experience, switching between gaming, movie, or music settings with ease. Designed for long sessions, the lightweight aluminum construction of the H3 Wireless features large over-ear cups with soft memory foam padding that conforms to any head shape for maximum comfort. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 100 hours and supports pass-through charging via USB-C, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay. The CHERRY XTRFY H3 Wireless is available now for a suggested retail price of $99.99 on Amazon .

ST. MICHAEL, Barbados,- Blue Diamond Resorts is set to turn heads and set pulses racing as it redefines all-inclusive hospitality in Barbados. As of today, Royalton CHIC Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only , is officially open for bookings, gearing up for a spectacular debut in Spring 2026. Nestled along Barbados' glamorous Gold Coast, this stylish lifestyle resort is designed for trendsetters who crave excitement and sophistication in equal measure. Guests will indulge in electrifying experiences and effortless luxury, where every moment is unforgettable, vibrant, and unapologetically posh. “The demand for adults-only, all-inclusive modern luxury has never been stronger, with travelers seeking more than just relaxation—they want engaging social experiences. With both Jamaica and Barbados joining our collection, we are introducing a bold new era of upscale travel, tailored for those who crave indulgence and energy in equal measure,” said Jordi Pelfort, President of Blue Diamond Resorts. “Barbados has long been a destination of distinction, making it the perfect setting for the Royalton CHIC Resorts experience.” As Blue Diamond Resorts’ first property in Barbados, this addition reinforces the brand’s expansion into the Caribbean’s most vibrant and sought-after destinations. Coinciding with the company's 15th anniversary of innovation in all-inclusive hospitality, Royalton CHIC Barbados marks another bold milestone in the company’s continued growth, delivering high-end indulgence infused with an undeniably social spirit. Much like Barbados itself, an island celebrated for its effortless elegance, lively culture, and jet set appeal, the resort is designed as the ultimate adults only escape, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, all under the signature “Party Your Way” concept. Designed for spirited, contemporary comfort, Royalton CHIC Barbados will feature 220 stylish suites, offering options such as oceanfront views, swim-out access, and private terraces. Guests seeking an enhanced stay can opt for the Diamond Club™ suite category, unlocking personalized butler service, exclusive amenities, and exclusive Diamond Club™ beach and pool areas. The resort’s culinary scene will be just as fabulous, with nine restaurants and three bars blending local flavors with global influences, including a vibrant steakhouse, the dazzling Level 18 Rooftop Cabana Lounge, and an enticing new French-Island-Fusion restaurant that will elevate classic flavors with a Caribbean twist. Embodying the Royalton CHIC Resorts spirit, the resort will curate a dynamic mix of entertainment, wellness, and social experiences. Guests can unwind at The Royal Spa, join high-energy Royalton FIT classes, or revel in non-stop entertainment curated by the CHIC Angels. Whether basking in poolside luxury, enjoying the island’s most vibrant nightlife, or indulging in exclusive experiences, every stay will be designed for unapologetic indulgence and unexpected moments. Following the buzz of last year’s launch of Royalton CHIC Antigua and the recent announcement of Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove, this latest addition strengthens Blue Diamond Resorts’ vision of reimagining the adults-only all-inclusive experience. The arrival of Royalton CHIC Barbados marks yet another bold step in its expansion—proving that adults-only luxury has never been more enticing. Bookings are now open for Spring 2026 stays. For more information or to book your next vacation, visit royaltonchicresorts.com .

HATTIESBURG, Miss. – No. 8 William Carey completed the sweep over Mobile, taking both games of the Saturday doubleheader at Milton Wheeler Field.  "We kind of followed the same script in the first game where we spotted Mobile four in the first and  Rigoberto Hernandez  got us back in it with a three-run triple," said Head Coach  Bobby Halford . "After that we went ahead and let them get back in it, but  Luke Lycette  came on and throttled them pitching out of a bases loaded jam with our offense kicking into gear." In similar fashion to the start of the Friday night game, UM took the early lead with a run in the first inning and three runs in the second inning. After two quick outs to start the bottom of the second,  Jayden Mark  and  Cam Trosclair  kept the inning alive with back-to-back singles with a walk loading the bases.   Rigoberto Hernandez  then stepped to the plate and delivered a bases clearing triple to left center to put WCU within one run and would come in to score on a  DeeJay Booth  single up the middle to tie the game.  The Rams retook the lead with a run in the fourth, but in the bottom half of the inning, an RBI groundout by Hernandez and a wild pitch put the Crusaders in front 6-5. Mobile got one run back in the fifth but again Carey answered with eight runs on four hits in the bottom of the inning.  Mark started the scoring in the inning, driving in  Preston Ratliff  and  Josh Alexander  on a single to left center. Trosclair followed with an RBI single to left to make it 9-6 and later in the inning a bases-loaded walk made it a five-run advantage.  Josh Alexander  capped the scoring with a grand slam to left. The Crusaders put the game away in the sixth, again scoring eight runs on four hits. After loading the bases, a hit by pitch and a walk pushed the first two runs across with Hernandez adding two more RBI to his total with a single to right center.  Another bases loaded walk made it 19-6 with  Braydon Coffey  driving in a run on a single to left. The final runs of the game came off the bat of  Eli Collins , as he drove in Coffey and Alexander with a single to center.   Luke Lycette  earned the win in relief going 2.1 innings, allowing one run on two hits. "Second game we jumped out early and continued the offensive assault," said Halford.  Preston Ratliff  did an outstanding job on the mound throwing a complete game one hitter for his second impressive start."  The final game of the series saw the Crusaders jump out to the early lead this time with back-to-back six run innings.  Ratliff started the scoring in the first inning with a bang, launching a three-run homer to left center. A Defensive miscue led to the fourth run of the inning with Coffey and  Ty Little  driving in the other two. After a walk and stolen base to the start the second inning, Alexander got things going with an RBI double and would later score on a  Tyler Ducksworth  single to center. Coffey picked up two more RBI on a single to make it 10-0 WCU with a sac fly by Little and double by Hernandez making it a 12-run advantage.  WCU added a run in the third on an RBI groundout by Ducksworth and two more in the fourth on a defensive miscue and a Little single to left. The Crusaders finished things with off in the sixth with two runs for the final margin. Ratliff picked up the win on the mound, going the distance, allowing only one hit with four strikeouts.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. – No. 17 Lady Crusaders give up one hit in double header sweep over Point University Friday afternoon at Joseph & Nancy Fail Field. WCU jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning on doubles by  Lilli Robertson  and  Albanie Fussell  and in the second inning, extended their lead to six. Robertson picked up her second RBI of the game, scoring  Reanna Nieman  on a single to left with  Julia Shaw  launching a three-run shot to left to cap the scoring in the inning. Carey kept the offense going and in the third inning, finished things off with six runs on six hits. Robertson continued her strong day at the plate, driving in  Magen Caro  with  Madison Prejean  making it 9-0 WCU with a two RBI single to right center.  Laila Clark  drove in the final three runs of the frame on a double to left center. The duo of Nieman and  Kate Schroeder  were brilliant in the circle, as they combined for a perfect game.  Game two saw the Lady Crusaders once again take an early lead with runs over the first three innings. Shaw started Carey off with an RBI double in the first with Caro making it 3-0 on a single down the right field line in the second and an infield single in the third.   After being held scoreless in the fourth, the Lady Crusaders started the fifth inning off with a double by Fussell and back-to-back to triples by Clark and Caro to make it 5-0 with a defensive miscue allowing another run to cross the plate. Later in the inning, Robertson scored  Liz Cross  with the third triple of the inning with Shaw completing the run rule victory with a single to right. Ryanne Hornsby  went the distance in the circle, allowing one hit over five innings to pick up the win. Carey is back in action tomorrow, as they continue conference play with a double header against Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. Play is set to begin at 12:00 pm at Joseph & Nancy Field.

BOX SCORE   HATTIESBURG, Miss. – No. 8 William Carey overcame a six-run deficit to run rule Mobile 18-6 Friday night at Milton Wheeler Field. "It was really the tale of two games after spotting Mobile a 6 spot in the first inning," said Head Coach  Bobby Halford . "I felt that we would get back in the game, but you never expect to put up 15 runs. We were getting ourselves out early and finally became more patient to get their guys pitch count up." "Big at bats by Rigoberto who continues with his hot streak along with  Josh Alexander  knocking in 5 runs and Trosclair scoring 6 in that pivotal inning that blew open the game. Bobby McGee was outstanding, shutting them down the rest of the game giving up 2 hits. Things did not go well for Carey to start the game, as the Rams scored six runs on six hits in the first inning. After being held to just two hits over the first three innings, WCU slowly got going offensively in the fourth with two runs on a  Jayden Mark  bases loaded single to center and an RBI groundout by  Cam Trosclair . The Crusaders really got going in the fifth, as the offense exploded for 15 runs on seven hits to seize control of the game. Carey started the inning with a walk followed by back-to-back doubles from  DeeJay Booth  and  Josh Alexander  to make it a two-run game.  After four straight walks tied the game, Trosclair put WCU ahead for good with a two RBI single to center. Two batters later,  Rigoberto Hernandez  extended the Crusader lead to five with a three-run homer to right. WCU continued the attack on a two-run home run by Alexander with Trosclair making it seven RBI for the night with a grand slam to center to make it 17-6 Carey. The final run of the game came in the sixth inning on an RBI single by Alexander.  Bobby Magee  was stellar on the mound after coming on in relief in the first inning, allowing only two hits with five strikeouts in 6.2 innings pitched to earn the win. Carey is back in action tomorrow, as they wrap up the series with a double header beginning at 1:00 pm at Milton Wheeler Field.

The momentum continues at Iona! From innovative academic programs to impressive internships, Iona is rapidly becoming a top choice for students nationwide. New Rochelle, N.Y- At Iona University, students not only gain the skills they need to succeed, but the real-world experiences that set them apart. From top-tier internships and distinguished faculty to a vibrant campus life and close-knit community, Iona paves the way for Gaels to make their mark in the world.  Iona’s prime location with campuses in New Rochelle and Bronxville, N.Y., located just 20 miles from the heart of New York City in Westchester County, also opens a world of opportunity.  For 2025, Iona has been named one of the nation’s best colleges by The Princeton Review, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and others. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report recognized Iona as one of top for social mobility in the country, while Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW) ranks an Iona degree in the top 5 percent nationally for long-term return on investment.  To learn more about Iona University, explore  Freshman Admissions online, email  admissions@iona.edu or call (800) 231-IONA.  Here are the Top 5 reasons Iona students are getting ahead both on campus and beyond! #1: TOP-TIER INTERNSHIPS At Iona, students obtain a robust liberal arts education and unparalleled access to top-tier internships. Iona students have recently enjoyed internships at leading companies such as Google, IBM, Major League Baseball, NBC Universal, HEINEKEN® USA, PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, Merrill Lynch, Ernst & Young (EY), Alvarez & Marsal, Associated Capital Group and others. These internships are a great way for students to build confidence, explore their career interests and gain an inside look into their chosen industries. These experiences can also lead to full-time positions, giving Iona graduates a significant edge up in the job market.  Following a successful summer internship at Procter & Gamble, Silas Gates ’24 was offered a full-time position – which he said was “an ode to Iona.”  “There [were] many networking opportunities, internship openings and jobs available to me without having to be too far away from school,” he said. “I wanted to build my professional experience while achieving a degree. Iona gave me the best opportunity to do both.” #2: AI-DRIVEN, CUTTING-EDGE CURRICULUM In a rapidly changing world, Iona is focused on innovating and expanding its programs to prepare students for the future – especially given the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI). Taking an AI-driven approach across all disciplines, Iona has launched the AI@Iona initiative to ensure students and faculty stay ahead of the curve in a tech-driven world.  Through the Gabelli Center for Teaching & Learning, all students and faculty are actively encouraged to leverage AI tools, infusing the power of this transformative technology into the practice of teaching and learning.  “Students need to be equipped with the ability to use the current tools and the mindset to continue to experiment with new AI tools as they emerge,” said Rob Kissner, clinical lecturer in Iona’s Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. “Those who do not possess these skills and mindset will lose out on opportunities to those who do.” #3: VIBRANT, SPIRITED CAMPUS LIFE With newly renovated residence halls and a new dining hall and student union coming soon, students are even more excited to become Gaels – and enrollment has surged. In fact, The Wall Street Journal ranked Iona among the best in New York and in the Top 25 nationwide for student experience, according to its 2025 list of “Best Colleges in the U.S.” Also, there are over 80 clubs and leadership organizations at Iona, as well as many opportunities in the performing arts, 16 club sports and 24 NCAA Division I Athletics programs. Whether it be through service-learning opportunities around the world or hands-on research experience alongside distinguished faculty members, Iona students are encouraged to learn outside the lines of the classroom as they develop their leadership skills. “Everyone wants to see each other succeed, from professors to classmates. It's more than just a school – it's a family,” said Iona marketing major Grace Mutze ’25. #4: ACCELERATED, DUAL-DEGREE PROGRAMS When it comes to academics, Iona students enjoy small class sizes, engaged professors and a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across three schools. Iona’s dual-degree programs empower students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in just five years, reducing time and tuition costs. At this accelerated pace, students can begin a promising career sooner. Enrollees in the 4+1 programs are also eligible for a variety of scholarships and/or merit awards. “I wanted to attend a university that was going to set me up for success post-graduation,” said Debora Diaz ’25, ’26MST, enrolled in the 4+1 math and adolescent education program. “With such an outstanding dual-degree program, I am going to start my dream career as soon as I graduate.”  #5: GAELS TAKE CARE OF GAELS Iona boasts an engaged and active alumni network of over 50,000 members who provide invaluable mentorship, career guidance and job placement support through initiatives like the Gaels Go Further Mentoring Program. “The most distinctive advantage I have gained from my experience at Iona is having personal connections with my professors who want to see me become successful,” said Michael Faughnan ’24, ’25MBA, a finance and accounting double major now earning his MBA. “Through these connections, I was introduced to the Gaels Go Further Program, where I have an alumni mentor who guides me through difficult career decisions.” To learn more about Iona University, explore  Freshman Admissions online, email  admissions@iona.edu or call (800) 231-IONA.

PASCAGOULA, Miss.,- HII’s (NYSE: HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division celebrated its newest class of apprentice graduates during a ceremony at the shipyard today. The event recognized the hard work and dedication of the graduates who have completed the three-to four-year program combining classroom instruction with hands-on shipbuilding experience. Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette provided remarks at the ceremony and praised the graduates for their commitment and contribution to the company’s shipbuilding legacy. “Completing the Ingalls apprentice program is no small feat and it reflects years of dedication, hard work and persistence,” Blanchette said. “The training our apprentices received wasn’t just about mastering skills like welding and fitting — it was about building the foundation for a career that will shape the future of this country and carry forward the legacy of excellence at Ingalls. Congratulations to this year’s apprentice graduates. Your work is strengthening national security, protecting lives and making history.” The Ingalls Shipbuilding apprentice program is a competitive workforce development initiative designed to prepare future shipbuilders through specialized training in one of 15 registered Department of Labor apprentice programs. Since its inception in 1952, the program has produced more than 4,000 graduates who have gone on to support operations at Ingalls Shipbuilding and currently has over 600 students enrolled in the program. Among this year’s graduates was Overall Apprentice of the Year Cody Gildea, who has been training as an outside machinist. Reflecting on his experience in the program, Gildea shared, “I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and building things, and so having the opportunity to train as an outside machinist in the main engine area of the ship has been a great fit for me. The apprentice program has allowed me to experience different departments, develop my skills, and take pride in knowing that the work I do will help build the ships that will one day protect our country.” Upon entering the program, apprentices earn competitive wages and receive a comprehensive benefits package. This allows them to receive an education, build work ethic, gain experiences, and develop into world-class journeymen of their crafts. As the largest manufacturing employer in Mississippi, Ingalls Shipbuilding has designed, built and maintained amphibious ships, destroyers and cutters for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard for over 85 years. The Ingalls Apprentice School programs are recognized as the backbone of Ingalls’ well-trained workforce and many graduates have gone on to hold positions from pipe welders to senior executives. For more information about Ingalls Shipbuilding’s apprentice school visit hii.com/careers/ingalls-apprentice-school/ .

If you don't know Trevon McGill, sit down and take a seat ! Meet 18 year old Trevon, the #7 Ranked Track Star in Mississippi from Oak Grove High School that is taking the Track and Field World by storm. We sat down yesterday for an exclusive interview with Trevon who goes by the nickname "Tre." Yes, this senior could easily be voted in by fans to be a Mississippi Track & Field All-Star. To vote for Tre to be a state all-star, www.PlayersMS.com . Any student athlete grades 9-12th that goes to any school in Mississippi public and private can sign up as a member of The Mississippi Association of Athletes. Here is Tre story. Tre describes himself as a genuine person. Track is his life. He also think track is a part of what makes him who his is. Track runs in his blood. Track is in Tre's DNA. "Track and me being a genuine person makes me who I am," Tre told THN. His favorite social media app is TikTok. His favorite song is "Solid by Lil Baby." His favorite music artist? Yes, it's also Lil Baby. Any song by Lil Baby. Every song by Lil Baby. This is info about the Basketball All-Star Vote. Track and Field All-Star Vote is coming soon! So you can image why Tre said 'Running This Sh*t' by Lil Baby puts him in his locked in zone. "He get me locked in even when ion feel like working out!" Tre said. Tre's celebrity crush is Superstar Shacarri Richardson. No wonder Tre loves track and field so much! It all make sense now! Great choice. His favorite color is lime green. His favorite food is "rotel." For the record, that's not what we expected but it is a food. Moving right along. His favorite restaurant is CiCi's Pizza. No, there isn't one in Hattiesburg anymore. Before we get more into this interview, let's do a quick drip check. We asked Tre to step onto the red carpet with his favorite fit and rate it 1-10. He didn't rate his fit but here it is: The Road to the All-Stars Series highlight players across the state leading up to the All-Stars. The Mississippi All-Stars is the only all-star game sanctioned by the NCAA. Any 9-12th grade student athlete that goes to any public or private school in Mississippi can be a state all-star. All-Stars are selected by the fans. The top athletes with the most votes will be recommended to the Mississippi Association of Players also known as MAP. MAP will review the recommendation from the fans and invite the top track and field athletes in Mississippi to the Mississippi Track and Field All-Stars Draft. At the draft, the 2025 Mississippi Basketball All-Stars will be selected live. The Track & Field All-Star Draft has not been announced yet. Now, let's hop back into our exclusive interview with Tre McGill. Road to the All-Stars highlight 2 profiles for each player that we think are very important. We highlight their social media profile and we highlight their player profile. Let's start with Tre's social media profile. Don't forget to follow his social and check out his content. Let's Go! Social Media @ Followers Instagram tooshorttre 2.6 TikTok getrichhtre 500 X (Twitter) n/a n/a Snapchat n/a n/a Facebook n/a n/a We asked Tre how would he rank himself in the top 100 players in the state? Tre says he's at least in the top 10. Actually, he's currently ranked at #7 so technically, that answer is correct! So, let's look at his player's profile. Players Profile Position:   Runner and Long Jumper Stats:   100m: 11.2, 200m: 22.44, LJ: 20Ft School:  Oak Grove High School Classification:   Senior Height:  5'6 Weight:  113lbs Rankings :  #7 Source:  NPX247 Awards & Honors:   n/a Greatest Talent/Advantage : Speed Reflecting on this year's season, Tre said his best meet this season was at the William Carey Meet. "I ran the 100, 200 and long jump. I ran a 22.44 in the 200 11.2 in the 100 and 19"9 in the long jump" he said. Flip that to his worst moment this season, during his first track meet, he felt he just didn't do his best. "It was cold and I ran a 12 in the 100," he said. He thinks he's his only competition. He's a real athlete that sees nobody stopping him but him. He also think he's the best runner in the entire state. Reflecting on him as an athlete, if he could improve on anything, it would be his speed and stamina. Tre admits, "My weakness is my top speed ," Tre said humbly. Finally, let's wrap this interview up with a few serious questions about Tre's future. Here's some questions and answers that we think you'll find very interesting. If you think you know Tre, you really don't have a clue until you read the last part of our interview below. Let's go! How important is it to you to sign a NIL Deal & why?  7 It's important because you worked for it but also its not because personally that would not be my focus. If you could tell anything to a college coach or recruiter what would it be?  What's your story on how you became a coach. List the colleges you ever visited or been to in your life? What is your #1 dream school?  Haven't been to none but Texas is my dream school. List your top 10 schools you would like to play at?  LSU, Auburn, Texas Long Horns, William Carey, Ole Miss, Texas Tech, Baylor Where do you see yourself next year?  Wherever God puts me. Who or what motivates or inspires you to play the game?  Olympic Runners. What do you wish to achieve by playing this sport?  All my goals. Being a Mississippi All-Star is the highest honor and award you can receive as a student athlete. Why do you deserve to be a state All-Star? Me personally I put my all into this sport, blood, sweat, and tears. Without a doubt I wouldn't let up for anything. I push myself 100% everyday even when I don't feel like it because I know there's someone out there working just as hard as me. That's a wrap. Hope you enjoyed our Road to the All-Stars with Tre McGill from Pearl High School. Overall, Tre is one of the most talented track and field athletes period. He's dedicated to being on great teammate and an excellent addition to any collegiate team. If you would like to support Tre or any other Track & Field Athlete to be in the Track & Field All-Stars in Mississippi, just got the website and vote. Don't forget, you can also vote for your favorite basketball players in Mississippi to be a Mississippi All-Star on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 by going to www.playersms.com .

Box Score HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The William Carey baseball team overcame a slow start, to defeat Point University 7-2 Saturday afternoon at Milton Wheeler Field. "Proud of our guys for not panicking when we had two hits through five innings," said Head Coach  Bobby Halford . "Their guy was tough, but we were finally able to get his pitch count up. It was a very emotional and draining day yesterday with Bridley and Eli sustaining serious injuries and we were a little sluggish coming out of the gate." Pitching was the highlight of the final game of the series, as there were a combined nine hits given up over the first six innings with the Skyhawks having six of those hits. Point picked up three of their hits in the third leading to one run with a wild pitch allowing another run to cross the plate to give Point the early lead. The Crusaders remained steadfast and in the sixth finally broke through the armor of the Skyhawk starting pitcher. After back-to-back walks and wild pitch put runners on second and third,  Josh Alexander  picked up the third hit for Carey with a single to right, to tie the game.  WCU carried the momentum into the seventh. With the bases loaded and one out  Preston Ratliff  delivered the big hit, driving in two runs on a single to center field with an error on the same play making it 5-2 Carey. The Crusaders were not done, as  Tyler Ducksworth  and Alexander went back-to-back with doubles to right center to score the final runs of the game. Relief pitcher  Bobby Magee  did the rest, allowing only two hits over the final two innings to seal the victory. Starting pitcher  Conner Wilson  earned the win on the mound going seven innings allowing two runs on six hits. "I thought we did a good job of battling when we had too with the big hits by Josh and Preston to get us going," said Halford. "Rigoberto continues to step up in the leadoff spot and another great effort by Conner today." Carey is back in action Tuesday, March 11, as they head to Livingston, Ala. to take on West Alabama. Play is set to begin at 4:00 pm.