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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dog-days-of-summer-cedric-and-hank/2991373/ | 2022-06-13T22:51:08 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dog-days-of-summer-cedric-and-hank/2991373/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/duncanville-assitant-chief-of-police-provides-update-on-shooting-at-fieldhouse/2991391/ | 2022-06-13T22:51:14 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/duncanville-assitant-chief-of-police-provides-update-on-shooting-at-fieldhouse/2991391/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/new-movie-highlights-texas-wildlife-and-conservation/2991400/ | 2022-06-13T22:51:21 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/new-movie-highlights-texas-wildlife-and-conservation/2991400/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/raw-video-fire-crews-respond-to-grass-fire-monday-in-seagoville/2991362/ | 2022-06-13T22:51:27 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/raw-video-fire-crews-respond-to-grass-fire-monday-in-seagoville/2991362/ |
Buc-ee's founder and Texas A&M graduate Arch "Beaver" Aplin III is contributing $50 million to the university's Hospitality Entrepreneurship Program, one of the largest gifts the university has received from a single donor.
The donation will go toward establishing an academic center that will serve as an immersive learning laboratory for students, TAMU said.
According to the university, The Aplin Center will offer unique student experiences in programs such as hospitality, retail studies, food product development, food science and more.
The center will feature indoor and outdoor recreational spaces as well as retail and food services. The Aplin Center will host corporate training and recruiting programs and will allow students to take advantage of professional development opportunities, the university explains.
Texas A&M President Dr. M. Katherine Banks said the Aplin Center will allow for more entrepreneurial activities across several disciplines.
Primary partners with the center will include Texas A&M's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences as well as the Mays Business School.
Banks feels that through Aplin's gift, "he is creating a living, learning laboratory that will provide transformational opportunities for students."
Local
The latest news from around North Texas.
The center will be built at the intersection of Wellborn Road and the primary pedestrian tunnel on Texas A&M's campus near Kyle Field. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/buc-ees-founder-donates-50-million-to-texas-am-for-hospitality-program/2991288/ | 2022-06-13T22:51:33 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/buc-ees-founder-donates-50-million-to-texas-am-for-hospitality-program/2991288/ |
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio school districts could begin arming employees as soon as this fall under a bill signed into law Monday by GOP Gov. Mike DeWine.
The law, as enacted, requires up to 24 hours of training before an employee can go armed, and up to eight hours of annual training. The training programs must be approved by the Ohio School Safety Center, and DeWine announced he's ordering the center to require the maximum 24 hours and the maximum eight hours.
Schools can provide additional training if they wish, DeWine said.
Before announcing the bill signing, the governor outlined several other school safety measures he and lawmakers have promoted, including $100 million for school security upgrades in schools and $5 million for upgrades at colleges.
The state is also adding 28 employees to the school safety center to work with districts on safety issues and to provide training under the new law. Ohio has also provided $1.2 billion in wellness funding for schools to address mental health and other issues, the governor said.
The new law “is giving schools an option, based on their particular circumstances, to make the best decision they can make with the best information they have,” DeWine said.
The governor said his preference remains that school districts hire armed school resource officers, but said the law is another tool for districts that want to protect children. He emphasized that it's optional, not a requirement.
Mayors of Ohio's biggest cities, including Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland, planned an afternoon news conference to highlight gun violence in their communities and outline their differences with the governor over gun issues. Nan Whaley, DeWine's Democratic opponent for governor, also planned a news conference, after denouncing his decision to sign the bill.
The signing came the same day a new law went into effect making a concealed weapons permit optional for those legally allowed to carry a weapon.
Democrats have said the law sends the wrong message coming so soon after the massacre of 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. Republicans say the measure could prevent such shootings. Lawmakers fast-tracked the legislation to counter the impact of a court ruling that said, under current law, armed school workers would need hundreds of hours of training.
The measure is opposed by major law enforcement groups, gun control advocates, and the state's teachers unions. It's supported by a handful of police departments and school districts. | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/dewine-signs-bill-allowing-school-employees-armed/530-2b95f4a8-1edc-4070-aae3-8e83ef770370 | 2022-06-13T22:51:51 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/dewine-signs-bill-allowing-school-employees-armed/530-2b95f4a8-1edc-4070-aae3-8e83ef770370 |
CAMERON COUNTY, Texas — Elon Musk's SpaceX must work to lessen the environmental impact of a planned launch for its Starship/Super Heavy vehicle in Boca Chica by following more than 75 actions from the Federal Aviation Administration.
The FAA's environmental review determined the actions, which help decide if a launch license can be granted. Additionally, SpaceX's launch plans must undergo public safety and national security analyses to receive a license, which is currently pending.
Launches will also have more advanced notice to prevent long closures of State Highway 4, which crosses Boca Chica Beach and the Lower Rio Grande National Wildlife Refuge. Conversations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined that closures cannot take place on 18 select holidays and restrictions will not be allowed for more than five weekends a year.
With SpaceX's launch plans in mind, a biologist will monitor vegetation and wildlife, state or federal agencies will help rid habitats of launch debris and surrounding communities will receive notification of any engine noise or sonic booms launches may cause.
PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/spacex-faa-actions-environmental-impact-launches/269-b4a736b2-ce79-44c4-beff-36edc343b698 | 2022-06-13T22:51:57 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/spacex-faa-actions-environmental-impact-launches/269-b4a736b2-ce79-44c4-beff-36edc343b698 |
KILLEEN, Texas — A male is in custody following a five-hour standoff with Killeen police officers on Sunday, according to the Killeen Police Department.
Officers were called out to an apartment in the 4400 block of Alan Kent Drive around 9:45 p.m. because of gunshots in the area, police said.
When they arrived, officers were told the victim and the shooting suspect were involved in an argument, which resulted in the suspect shooting his weapon, police said.
Police also learned the the male suspect refused to surrender to officers, causing KPD to bring in its Tactical Response Unit, police added.
About five hours later, around 4:12 a.m., the alleged shooter surrendered to police and was taken into custody, police said.
There was a female in the apartment, but she didn't have any injuries, police added.
No other information was released at this time.
Other crime stories on KCENTV.com: | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/killeen-pd-shooting-suspect-custody-after-5-hour-standoff/500-2c110e01-bbd5-4fd8-b9a6-dfe448e59385 | 2022-06-13T22:54:40 | 0 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/killeen-pd-shooting-suspect-custody-after-5-hour-standoff/500-2c110e01-bbd5-4fd8-b9a6-dfe448e59385 |
BOISE, Idaho — A man who police say killed two people and injured three others during a shooting in October 2021 died by a gunshot wound to the head, according to the Ada County Coroner's office in records obtained in a public records request by KTVB.
Jacob Bergquist, 27, died after he began shooting his weapon throughout the Boise Towne Square Mall, police said in October.
The manner of death listed on the report is suicide.
According to a release by Boise Police Department on Oct. 8, an officer that fired back at Bergquist watched him hide behind a dumpster, where he heard a shot fired.
Bergquist was pronounced dead on Oct. 26, 2021 after being transported to the hospital.
The two victims of the shooting were identified as 26-year-old Jo Acker and 49-year-old Roberto Padilla Arguelles.
Background
Boise Police, Boise Towne Square Mall security, and Idaho State Police were all familiar with the gunman before the deadly rampage, according to law enforcement records.
Bergquist was convicted of felony retail theft in Chicago, Illinois and had a misdemeanor drug possession charge in Wisconsin. On his now-deleted YouTube channel, Bergquist posted videos about how he was a felon who owned guns and strongly advocated for the restoration of felons' firearms rights. He also described himself as disliking Hispanics.
On March 7, police received a call for service from Walmart in Meridian about Bergquist carrying a firearm in the store.
Bergquist, an employee at the Walmart, was openly carrying a gun while shopping at the Fairview Avenue store, Meridian Police spokeswoman Kelsey Johnston said.
"A manager at Walmart requested that Bergquist remove his firearm per store policy and Jacob became verbally abusive to the manager and then left the store," Johnston said in a statement.
Staff at the Walmart called Meridian Police to report the incident, and an responding officer found Bergquist in a nearby parking lot. Bergquist was not arrested or charged, but was given a warning and told not to return to the Walmart, police said.
Boise Police also recorded multiple interactions between law enforcement and Bergquist while he was openly carrying a gun in Boise this spring.
At least two officers referred police reports to the Ada County Prosecutor's office to determine whether Bergquist, a felon, was allowed to possess a firearm. ISP also asked the prosecutor's office to look into Bergquist after a trooper came into contact with him at the Statehouse in April.
According to a police report, Bergquist walked into the Capitol with a gun, and told people he was a convicted felon but was allowed to own guns in Idaho. He requested to interview Idaho Gov. Brad Little to get his thoughts on felons owning guns.
The Ada County Prosecutor's Office said the office could not take any action against Bergquist for carrying a firearm because the Illinois theft was not on the list of felony convictions that prohibit firearm possession under Idaho law, as outlined in Idaho Code Section 18-310.
Watch more crime news:
See the latest Treasure Valley crime news in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/boise-mall-shooter-died-by-suicide-coroner/277-1e76e130-ad4b-4149-953e-20d4b1728068 | 2022-06-13T23:02:31 | 1 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/boise-mall-shooter-died-by-suicide-coroner/277-1e76e130-ad4b-4149-953e-20d4b1728068 |
MOUNTAINBURG, Ark — The Arkansas State Police is asking for the public's help in finding 73-year-old James Scribner of Mountainburg, Arkansas.
He was last seen on Sunday, June 12 near highway 282 wearing a long-sleeve shirt, pants and lace up boots. Mr. Scribner also typically uses a cane.
If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, please contact the Crawford County Sheriff's Department at (479) 474- 8000 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/missing-persons-reports/silver-alert-for-crawford-county-man/91-561ae095-3c27-4279-884f-e8f3d0ca25ab | 2022-06-13T23:10:57 | 1 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/missing-persons-reports/silver-alert-for-crawford-county-man/91-561ae095-3c27-4279-884f-e8f3d0ca25ab |
A Bismarck man who pleaded guilty to eluding police and attempting to take an officer’s gun has been sentenced to three years on probation.
Matthew Peltier, 29, was charged in November after Bismarck police responded to a call of an assault at the Main Bar. They found Peltier several blocks away, and he fled when officers tried to handcuff him. He fought with them and attempted to disarm one of them, authorities said. One officer suffered a bloody nose and bruising when he was kneed in the face during the altercation.
Peltier pleaded guilty Monday to felony charges of disarming or attempting to disarm an officer, two counts of simple assault on an officer, and preventing arrest. He also pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of false information to law enforcement, simple assault and refusal to halt, according to court records.
South Central District Judge Pamela Nesvig suspended all but 152 days of a five-year prison sentence, and allowed Peltier credit for 152 days served. That equates to about five months.
Reach Travis Svihovec at 701-250-8260 or Travis.Svihovec@bismarcktribune.com | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/bismarck/peltier-sentenced-for-november-scuffle-with-bismarck-police/article_8db9abe4-eb58-11ec-b31f-9b358977d060.html | 2022-06-13T23:13:13 | 0 | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/bismarck/peltier-sentenced-for-november-scuffle-with-bismarck-police/article_8db9abe4-eb58-11ec-b31f-9b358977d060.html |
Bismarck's Broadway Avenue from Ninth Street through 12th Street will be closed to traffic beginning at 7 a.m. Wednesday for water main work.
The closure will be in place until late Friday, according to the city. No parking will be allowed on Broadway during that time. Access to adjacent properties and CHI St. Alexius Health will be maintained.
No detour will be in place. During peak traffic hours, motorists can expect congestion and are advised to seek alternate routes. | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/portion-of-broadway-to-close-for-3-days/article_443b1a9a-eb65-11ec-af69-7bd3bf5b5dc9.html | 2022-06-13T23:13:19 | 1 | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/portion-of-broadway-to-close-for-3-days/article_443b1a9a-eb65-11ec-af69-7bd3bf5b5dc9.html |
Overworked California firefighters struggle with PTSD, suicide, fatigue, intensifying wildfires
The morning sun warms California’s high desert, launching a clear spring day. Behind high walls at The Nurturing Nest, across from a burbling mineral pool, a small group of men and women roll up yoga mats and arrange themselves in a semi-circle. Their week at this tranquil retreat is ending and a counselor seeks final thoughts from each of them.
“Why are you here?” the counselor asks a young woman sitting alone on a small sofa, hugging a pillow to her chest. She stares into the middle distance and lets out a deep breath.
“Death. So many deaths,” she said.
The men and women at the retreat are steeped in death: All but one work for Cal Fire, dispatched to the desert as a last resort, seeking release from the neverending pain and fatigue brought on by their jobs.
Defensive and defiant at the beginning of the week, the California firefighters and a dispatcher break down their emotional walls by the end of it, laughing, weeping and recounting once-secret stories about death, terror and fire. They recall horrific sights of friends trapped by flames and reveal their urges to take their own lives.
For firefighters battling California wildfires, these emotional injuries are a workplace hazard. Longer and more intense fire seasons have taken a visible toll on the state, leaving a tableau of charred forests and flattened towns. But they’ve also fueled a silent mental health crisis, including an alarming rise in post-traumatic stress disorder among the ranks of Cal Fire, the state’s firefighting service.
Gold Rush town flattened:A fire nearly wiped one small California town off the map. Now it’s fighting to rebuild.
Fifty-four California firefighters have died in the line of duty since 2006, according to the Cal Fire Benevolent Foundation, and nationally, more than 3,000 firefighters have died from job-related injuries and illnesses since 1990.
But when they race into wildfires, it’s not just their bodies that are at risk, but their psyches, too. Wildland firefighters arguably face more psychological stress than most, since their battles are prolonged and their personal risks are high.
“I would be willing to bet that there’s suicidal ideation in half of our employees right now, and half of them have a plan to do it,” said Cal Fire Captain Mike Orton, a former Marine who recently transferred to a Los Angeles County inmate fire camp.
'A scarcity of resources':Wildland firefighters struggle to stay ahead of dozens of fires
CalMatters interviewed several dozen California firefighters — including many high-ranking battalion chiefs and captains — as well as mental health experts and family members, revealing an expansive and unaddressed problem that suggests a broken and depleted fire service is operating in a state that seems in perpetual combustion.
CalMatters found an expansive, unaddressed problem that suggests a broken, depleted fire service. Long hours and stress may endanger the public, too.
Firefighters, who in the past were stoic and suffered in silence, told CalMatters their emotional and personal stories, revealing their fears that their lack of sleep, long hours and stress could lead to poor decisions on the fire lines — which would endanger not just their crews, but the public, too, as California’s wildfires intensify.
California’s wildfire statistics read like the losing side of an arms race: 2020 was the state’s worst fire season on record, with more than 8,600 blazes taking 33 lives and burning 4% of the state. Once-feared megafires are now dwarfed by the state’s million-acre “gigafires.” Climate change has forced wildland firefighters, trained to be nimble problem-solvers, to do a hard pivot. With too few firefighters to cover all the fires, they are on the front lines longer, with shorter respites at home. Some battle fires for months at a time.
Diving into the data:How much is California spending to put out large wildfires? It's rising every year
The state’s much-admired fire service has only recently tried to come to grips with the scope of the mental health problems among its 6,500 firefighters and support personnel. Cal Fire’s behavioral health program began in 1999 but four years ago had only eight employees, reaching 27 now. Their work is mostly reactive — sending those who actively seek help for their pain, trauma and suicidal thoughts to retreats or therapists under contract with the state.
Fatigued, traumatized and frustrated, some California firefighters, including captains and battalion chiefs, say Cal Fire must do more: Staffing shortages create punishing shifts, forced overtime and long deployments. Cal Fire keeps crews on fires for 21 days without respite, while their counterparts with the federal government work 14-day shifts. Those deployments frequently go much longer.
Many suffering from PTSD recount troubles receiving benefits and health care coverage under the state’s workers’ comp system. And some say family members cannot collect survivors’ benefits for a firefighter’s suicide because it’s not classified as a line-of-duty death.
The job strains their marriages and families. One Cal Fire battalion chief in Riverside County, Jeff Burrow, said 80% of his station house crew got divorced in a single year. Sleep deprivation, alcohol and drug abuse are on the rise, firefighters and therapists said.
Many fire station leaders around the state told CalMatters they see an unaddressed epidemic of PTSD and suicidal thoughts among their crews. Yet CalFire does not collect any data on suicide or PTSD within its ranks.
“There’s a lot of people here hurting,” said Tony Martinez, a 29-year veteran Cal Fire captain in Napa County. “It’s an absolute epidemic, it’s not a cliché…The last several years, I’ve had so many coworkers either kill themselves or attempt to kill themselves — in some cases, multiple times.”
Martinez said he “didn’t know it was possible to have PTSD in the fire service. It wasn’t a word that we knew of.” He said he “never saw” PTSD among his colleagues in his first 20 years as a firefighter but he now realizes many of the older veterans’ erratic behavior was the result of years of trauma. “When I reflect back, I think they had PTSD. I think people forever have been suffering in silence.”
Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, whose agency oversees Cal Fire, called the mental health of California’s firefighters “a growing challenge. At times it feels like a crisis.”
“We are asking firefighters to fight what are truly catastrophic wildfires,” Crowfoot said. “Every year we are sending thousands of firefighters into intensifying conditions, and more and more dangerous seasons.”
But who will want to battle these fires if these conditions continue?
Several firefighters described high turnover at their stations. And Cal Fire’s statistics suggest that attrition has suddenly worsened: Last year, the number of firefighters and other full-time personnel voluntarily leaving was nearly twice the four-year average, reaching 691 — more than 10% of the agency’s workforce, according to data provided by Cal Fire spokesperson Chris Amestoy.
Martinez said he “bleeds Cal Fire,” but neither of his young adult sons want to follow him into the fire service, and he understands. “I tell my young firefighters: ‘Don’t work here,’” he said.
Statistics gauging the extent of the department’s mental health problem are scant: Cal Fire collects no information on PTSD or suicide among its staff so the agency cannot say whether it’s as rampant as firefighters say.
Cal Fire does track the number of times its employees and family members contact a peer-support team for help with an array of issues, primarily physical and mental health. And those numbers have been climbing: from 1,362 contacts in 2011, the first year Cal Fire began compiling the data, to 17,310 last year.
Counselors say a majority of the requests for help are related to stress. So far this year, 24% sought referrals for medical and psychological issues, 12% for grief and loss and about 9% for addiction or substance abuse.
A 2016 report found that nationwide, firefighters are 40% more likely to take their own lives than the general population. In addition, in a 2019 online survey of more than 2,600 wildland firefighters, about a third reported experiencing suicidal thoughts and nearly 40% said they had colleagues who had committed suicide. Many also reported persistent depression and anxiety.
The survey is believed to be the most extensive research into the mental health of wildland firefighters.
Patricia O’Brien, a former federal firefighter who co-authored the study, said the increasing frequency and intensity of California wildfires, coupled with the fire-service ethos of stoicism, is a formula for severe and unresolved trauma.
“This is humans battling a force of nature. We don’t get to conquer nature,” she said. “And if we try to do that, there will likely be negative outcomes in the form of trauma exposure, tragedy and loss. There are human burdens that firefighters carry.”
California’s firefighters carry a heavier burden than most. Unlike the majority of the nation’s wildland firefighters, Cal Fire crews are required to be ambidextrous: They staff local fire agencies in 36 of California’s 58 counties, meaning they toggle from responding to wildfires to hazardous material spills, swiftwater rescues, train crashes and medical emergencies.
“We are humans first, not firefighters or dispatchers,” said Ali Wiseman, a Cal Fire dispatcher who reeled off a cascade of colleagues’ deaths while attending the recent trauma camp in the desert. “Even though it’s hard or painful and embarrassing, I have to trust the world and tell my story.”
Now a year-round, neverending battle
All that the fire service once understood about fire size, behavior and severity is no longer valid. “Once-in-a-career” fires now come every year. What used to be called a fire season is now a year-round battle in California, with about 8,800 wildfires last year alone. Firefighters are staying on the fires lines much longer as they battle larger, more intense and more persistent fires.
In recent years, fire scientists watched as back-to-back fires did the unthinkable, burning across the Sierra Nevada’s granite wall. Lightning sieges sparked fires where flames had seldom been seen, in the North Coast’s “asbestos forests,” dubbed that because they used to be virtually fireproof.
Three major wildfires illustrate the challenges that California's wildland firefighters face as the climate heats up and the drought drags on.
Two were caused by PG&E equipment, the third by lightning. Together, they damaged or destroyed more than 20,000 buildings. Eighty-five people were killed.
Last July, the Dixie Fire ballooned into the second-largest fire in recent history. It burned about 960,000 acres, which is more than three times the size of San Francisco.
It was literally visible from space. This photograph was taken by an astronaut aboard the International Space Station.
The fire destroyed more than 1,300 buildings, including nearly the entire town of Greenville, California.
Late fall isn’t generally considered part of California’s fire season. Since records started, only 4% or so of fires have started in November or December.
But in November 2018 the Camp Fire, the second fire we are examining, ignited because of equipment owned by PG&E.
The Camp Fire wasn't the biggest fire by acres. It was not even the biggest that year.
But it remains the deadliest in the state’s history, killing 85 people.
It also burned a third of all the structures damaged or destroyed by California wildfires since 2008 — more than 18,000 buildings.
In August 2020, lightning struck California more than 12,000 times during a tropical storm, which created more than 500 fires; 37 of those combined to become the August Complex, and the third fire we are examining.
The complex, which is a collection of fires that have merged, burned more than 1 million acres, making it the largest in recent history. Put another way, 1% of the entire landmass of California burned in the August Complex.
By October, nearly the entire state was living beneath a smoky sky.
And it's only getting worse.
California’s wildland firefighters are now in a defensive crouch, facing an amped-up enemy fueled by climate change’s most destructive weapons: the worst drought to grip the Southwest in 1,200 years, loss of 130 million parched trees from disease and pests, and extreme weather conditions that defy predictability and precedent.
And there is little indication that things will get better as California cycles into an era of what fire crews call drought fires — massive, stubborn and dangerous. Wildland fire commanders caution their charges to “keep their heads on a swivel” — always alert to danger. Mental health experts now add another layer to that vigil: Firefighters must also be on the lookout for stress, fatigue and trauma in themselves and their colleagues. It’s tricky, however, to spot.
For some, PTSD can be caused by a single horrific event. For others, it’s a career’s-worth of awfulness that finally becomes too much.
“It’s all cumulative,” said Jeff Griffith, a Cal Fire captain who retired in December after 30 years on the job. “It’s a bucket, and there’s a drop, drop, drop. Eventually your bucket is going to overflow.”
Griffith said the personality type of firefighters is to “walk it off then get back to work. The sense is that you can’t go to your crew and confess a weakness because you are the officer. We’ve got hotlines where people are talking about substance abuse and marital abuse. People are overdosing on their day off.”
One reason that mental health data is hard to come by for California’s wildland firefighters is they have “a work culture in which people are being paid to be tough and show no weakness,” said Sidra Goldman-Mellor, an associate professor of public health at University of California, Merced, whose work as a psychiatric epidemiologist focuses on tracking depression and suicide.
“People are much less likely to volunteer information about their mental health problems,” she said. “It’s very different to how we talk about physical health problems. In large part, it’s the stigma. In many cases, though, people don’t recognize their depression and PTSD as a psychiatric problem.”
Cal Fire’s mental health program, Employee Support Services, functions as triage, working with those who want help, then directing them to therapists or doctors. Mike Ming, a 30-year Cal Fire veteran in charge of behavioral health and wellness, said much of the work is done by peers who are “active listeners.” The counseling and other services are voluntary and confidential.
“We ask the question, ‘Are you going to kill yourself?’,” Ming said, adding that if a firefighter says he or she is considering suicide, the peer counselor immediately contacts authorities. “We are never going to leave them alone in that case. We stay with them.”
Ming said firefighter suicides are a “trend that we’re hearing about more. We’ve had six deaths over the last couple of weeks. There have been overdoses. There’s no getting around that in the first-responder world, there is a problem with suicide. Cal Fire is no different.”
While peer programs can be useful in reaching those reluctant to talk about private matters with strangers, Goldman-Mellor said it’s difficult to measure their effectiveness if the fire service doesn’t collect data on suicides and PTSD.
“In general there are very few programs out there that have empirically been shown to reduce suicide rates,” she said. “Even if a program does work, you may not have the numbers. You can’t claim that it’s effective to reduce suicide if you are not tracking that outcome.”
Another problem is lack of expertise in diagnosing unseen wounds — not broken bones but broken minds. “It’s very, very, very difficult to diagnose PTSD,” Goldman-Mellor said. “Many physicians are not trained in evaluating mental health problems.”
Mynda Ohs is a trauma counselor based in San Bernardino who specializes in treating first responders — both her husband and son are wildland firefighters. She said it’s common for firefighters to mask their stress or trauma by binge drinking or taking illegal drugs.
“The most prominent thing I see is anxiety,” she said. “First responders can become accidental alcoholics, looking to take that edge off quickly. They are looking for calm. I see a lot of porn addiction — it’s legal and it does serve as an outlet or release. I have five right now that I am trying to help.”
Feeling better, feeling lighter
Back at Nurturing Nest — the rambling spa-retreat in Desert Hot Springs that usually caters to a self-help, spiritually inquisitive crowd, mats are rolled out, and firefighters gingerly work through yoga positions in a sunny room.
On weeks when the facility is given over to firefighters, its name is toughened up to Freedom Ranch. Some firefighters, dubious about the need for therapy, call the trauma retreats “Camp Snoopy.”
Cal Fire sends more than a dozen firefighters each month for intensive treatment at these workshops, with sessions involving vision boards, yoga and mindful breathing lessons.
Those who come to the retreat do so of their own volition. No one is ordered to attend. For some it took years to gather the courage to face their demons.
Steve Diaz is quietly observing from a corner. He retired as a battalion chief after 34 years with Cal Fire, the last few years as part of the peer-support program. He knows six colleagues who killed themselves. “I believe it is a crisis,” he said. “One is too many.”
Ramesh Gune runs the facility and is a therapist trained to work with first responders. He’s drained at the end of a week of concentrated counseling, as if he’s taken on the trauma of his charges as they slough off their emotional injuries. He speaks softly, gesticulating with his slender hands.
“Mostly anger, that is what I see a lot,” he said. “ ‘I am not what I pretend to be,’ that’s the conflict. ‘I feel helpless.’ That sense of helplessness drives them crazy. They cannot save people. ‘I am not enough.’ They harbor that negative feeling constantly. They become paralyzed.”
His work, he said, begins with reminding California’s firefighters that there is a path to feeling better, feeling lighter.
Hiram Vazquez, 38, carries a body full of tattoos as visual prompts lest he forget what’s important to him — portraits of his family on one muscular arm and a pirate theme on the other to remind him of the storms he’s weathered. The Cal Fire captain based in Riverside is trying to focus on the good things, incorporating coping tools he learned at the retreat.
“I came here pretty broken. A broken family, broken life. A lot of grief,” he said. He twice planned his suicide. He bought life insurance and planned to shoot himself, but rethought that when he realized his family wouldn’t be able to collect on the policy until it had been in place for two years. “And I didn’t want my kids to clean up after me,” Vazquez said.
Plan B was to speed along Highway 74, running through a guardrail and staging the scene to make it look like a car accident.
“I had hit rock bottom,” Vazquez said. He finally asked for help, and came to the desert.
“Stuff I didn’t realize I was carrying came up,” he said. “I’ve been on incidents where my friends have got burned over. I’ve been on incidents where people I was working close to have died. I’ve lost good friends. I’ve seen a lot of deaths. I’ve seen a lot of suicide with my peers or people that I know.”
Some of the trauma came from witnessing the trauma of others. Vazquez was in charge of an engine on the 2007 Harris Fire, which killed eight people in San Diego County. Another engine was caught in the fire, trapping firefighters.
“I was listening to the radio traffic, and one firefighter was screaming for help,” he said. “I was listening to air attack talking to the battalion chief who’s trying to find those guys, and he’s guiding them into this site, then telling them to back out because it’s about to get burned as well.”
As he recounts the story in a group session, other firefighters nod in recognition and understanding. No judgment.
“I feel free,” Vazquez said. “I feel like I don’t have to carry that burden anymore. Now I find I can live free.”
The responsibility of leading crews, and keeping them safe, weighs heavily. It’s one of the burdens that brought Orton, 47, the former Marine now stationed at a Los Angeles County inmate fire camp, to a trauma retreat.
“Every action I take (as) captain, every day of my career, I always think, ‘How am I not going to die? How am I not going to kill somebody today?’ You are constantly thinking about that on the job. I compartmentalize things so that I am able to take the stress.”
Compartmentalizing — putting negative thoughts and upsetting experiences in a mental lockbox — is an expedient way of stowing trauma, getting it out of the way so that memories don’t become incapacitating.
But even well-secured boxes can spring open.
That’s what happened to Orton on the last day of a retreat. He abruptly shared a long-buried personal trauma — the emergency stillbirth of his son 18 years earlier. Gune gently guided Orton through an exercise in which Orton could cast away his pain by visualizing the event and speaking to his lost son, saying the goodbye he was unable to express at the time.
Gune asked Orton to see in his mind’s eye his baby with angels on his shoulders. Then, as a group, the other firefighters joined Orton as they escorted the baby boy — borne aloft by angels’ wings — out of the room and away up into the bright blue sky.
The men stood in the doorway with arms slung around each other’s shoulders, looking up and feeling the weight slip away.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, you can get help from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Data analysis and visualizations by Jeremia Kimelman, Erica Yee and John D’Agostino. | https://www.redding.com/story/news/local/california/2022/06/13/california-wildfires-trauma-cal-fire-overworked-firefighters-struggle-with-ptsd-suicide-fatigue/7614024001/ | 2022-06-13T23:15:51 | 1 | https://www.redding.com/story/news/local/california/2022/06/13/california-wildfires-trauma-cal-fire-overworked-firefighters-struggle-with-ptsd-suicide-fatigue/7614024001/ |
Red-tailed hawk saved by family in Dog Canyon released after rehabilitation in Carlsbad
Master Sgt. Jason Schuler was hiking with his wife Sheryl and children in Dog Canyon on April 3, 2022 when something unusual happened.
Schuler said it was the first time the family had ventured along the trail in Olive Lee Memorial State Park as part of their exploration of Otero County following his transfer to Holloman Air Force Base in Alamogordo.
"We came to part of the trail and some people coming down said there's an injured bird ahead and we just said 'oh, okay' and continued on," Schuler said.
Schuler said when his family came upon the bird on the trail they were unsure of exactly what species they were looking at and what its injuries might be.
"We didn't know what was going on with it," he said. "I could see there was dried blood, so I could tell it was injured."
Sheryl Schuler called the local zoo to see if they could help as her husband attempted to wrap the bird in an extra jacket the family had brought along and pack it into a backpack.
"I've always loved the big birds, seeing them soaring in the sky. So seeing it hurt there, we just new we wanted to do something," he said.
"It's a huge bird. I saw the huge claws and huge beak and thought 'O, man.' I was a bit nervous when I was putting the extra jacket I had over it because I saw those."
Schuler said the family hiked the bird back down the trail and transported it to the zoo — the family even escaped with a warning after being stopped by police on the way as they raced to make it to the zoo ahead of its closing.
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Zoo officials thanked the family for its aide, identified the bird as Red-tailed hawk, and promised updates on its condition.
Red-tailed hawks are common in the U.S. recognizable by the "by the trademark reddish-brown tail," according to the Audubon Society. It preys on small mammals, birds and reptiles, though its diet varies by season and location. Adults can weigh up to 4 pounds with wingspans between 3 and 4 feet.
The hawk, after being seen by an Alamogordo vet, was transferred to Desert Willow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Carlsbad in hopes it could be rehabilitated.
Robert Kasuboski, outreach coordinator for the Center, said the bird of prey had suffered from electrocution, an injury he said is not uncommon to wildlife in southern New Mexico.
"Desert Willow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, we take in sick and injured animals from around southeast New Mexico. We try to fix them up and send them back into the wild," Kasuboski said.
The Center sees between 600 and 700 animals a year, Kasuboski said.
"It's important to rehabilitate the animals and rerelease them," he said. "It keeps the animals from suffering when they do get injured and helps sustain the natural populations as well."
Schuler said his family gladly received updates on the bird's rehabilitation from Desert Willow Rehabilitation Center.
They learned the hawk had regained weight and was possibly a female. And the family rejoiced when they learned it was strong enough to released back into its habitat.
On June 11, the hawk was set free at Oliver Lee State Park near the location where it was rescued. Schuler did the honors, opening the box and watching along with a dozen others as the hawk rejoined its natural habitat.
"It was pretty special," he said.
Jessica Onsurez can be reached at jonsurez@gannett.com, @JussGREAT on Twitter at by phone at 575-628-5531. | https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/red-tailed-hawk-rehabilitated-released-oliver-lee-memorial-state-park/7583565001/ | 2022-06-13T23:19:22 | 0 | https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/red-tailed-hawk-rehabilitated-released-oliver-lee-memorial-state-park/7583565001/ |
Roundabout planned at scene of eastside Muncie crash
MUNCIE, Ind. — State officials plan to install a "miniature roundabout" at an eastside intersection.
For decades there was a traffic light at Jackson Street and Ohio Avenue.
More recently, traffic only stops on Ohio. Because Jackson Street carries eastbound traffic on Ind. 32, state officials, rather than their city counterparts, are responsible for traffic control devices — or a lack of them — at the intersection.
At a Muncie City Council meeting on June 6, local resident Mary Stilts suggested the traffic light be returned.
"People are running that stop sign and slamming on their brakes to keep from wrecking," Stilts told council members.
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A serious traffic accident was reported at the intersection on the afternoon of June 4.
According to a Muncie Police Department report, about 4:30 p.m. that day, a northbound Ford van driven by Bernard Joseph Kappe, 64, of Mooreland, ran a red light, leading to a collision with an eastbound Chevrolet Malibu driven by Taylor Routh, 28, of Muncie.
Routh reportedly suffered a broken neck and was taken to a hospital in Indianapolis.
Kappe — who suffered a head cut — and a passenger in his van were treated at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.
At Monday's council meeting, Adam Leach, city engineer and street superintendent, said state officials were "looking at doing a miniature roundabout at that location in lieu of a stop light."
The roundabout would be at least the eighth in the Muncie area. Construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Nebo and River roads in Yorktown began May 31.
Construction is expected to begin in the summer of 2023.
The traffic light at the intersection was removed because the amount of traffic at the intersection no longer justified it, officials said.
Reporter David Penticuff contributed to this article.
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Douglas Walker is a news reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at 765-213-5851 or at dwalker@muncie.gannett.com. | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/miniature-roundabout-planned-eastside-intersection-muncie-indiana/7580616001/ | 2022-06-13T23:25:41 | 0 | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/miniature-roundabout-planned-eastside-intersection-muncie-indiana/7580616001/ |
Raising Cane's restaurant on McGalliard gets zoning change OK from Muncie City Council
MUNCIE, Ind. — Zoning has been approved by Muncie City Council to allow a Raising Cane's chicken restaurant to be built at and behind the site of the Northside Assembly of God Church in the 700 block of West McGalliard Road.
The zoning for the property moved from R-4 residential to variety business.
David Carnes, attorney for the fast food chain, on June 6 told the council that efforts to open one of the chain's restaurants in Muncie were revived after a home located behind the church was available to be purchased for the project along with the church.
Carlton Bowden, pastor at the church, told the council that the church had been looking for more room to expand its ministry, and being able to complete the sale for the Raising Cane's development would allow church officials to buy another property outside the city in Delaware County to meet their needs.
Raising Cane's:Muncie restaurant planned, raising concerns about McGalliard traffic congestion
"This would be a real blessing to us to be able to do something in a larger building, offer a better focus of ministry than we can right now," Bowden told the council.
The church has been at its location on McGalliard for 60 years.
When the proposed change was introduced at council in May, some council members were concerned that the new eatery would add to traffic problems along the commercial thoroughfare and its side streets. The site is next to a Starbucks coffeehouse that has been know to see traffic for its drive-through lane extend onto McGalliard.
Council member Jerry Dishman also noted problems with traffic flow on side roads in the area.
Muncie:Iconic Burkie’s restaurant site has sold. Here's what's planned for it
Engineer Brad Yoder said he completed a traffic study of the area that determined Raising Cane's would not significantly alter the traffic pattern and the streets could handle the additional traffic.
"It will be right in and right out only," Yoder said. "That's different than next door."
Council approved the change 6-3 to make way for the new eatery.
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David Penticuff is the local government reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at dpenticuff@gannett.com. | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/muncie-restaurants-indiana-food-raising-canes-zoning-change-northside-assembly-god-church/7586780001/ | 2022-06-13T23:25:47 | 0 | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/muncie-restaurants-indiana-food-raising-canes-zoning-change-northside-assembly-god-church/7586780001/ |
It's about to get hot - really, really hot in East Central Indiana. What you need to know
MUNCIE, Ind. — It's not officially summer until June 21, but it's about to feel like summer — oppressively so — for the next few days.
Monday will be warm enough, up to 89 degrees with a chance of thunderstorms, but the National Weather Service in Indianapolis has issued a heat advisory from 11 a.m. Tuesday until 9 p.m. Wednesday for an area including Delaware, Henry, Randolph and Madison counties. The combination of high temperatures in the upper 90s and humidity could make it feel as hot as 107 degrees, according to the NWS website.
Cool at the pool:Here's when public pools and splash pads are open this summer
Jay and Blackford counties, meanwhile, are under a heat advisory from noon Monday until noon Tuesday, when it could feel as hot as 104 degrees, and then an excessive heat watch — likely to be upgraded to a warning — from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday evening, when heat index values up to 112 degrees are possible, according to the National Weather Service of Northern Indiana.
During these times, people should take precautions including:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Stay in air-conditioned spaces and out of the sun.
- Don't leave young children or pets unattended in vehicles.
- Check up on relatives and neighbors.
- When possible, reschedule strenuous activities, especially outdoors, to early morning or evening. When working outdoors, take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas.—
- Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing.
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Contact content coach Robin Gibson at ragibson@gannett.com or 765-213-5855. Follow her on Twitter @RobinGibsonTSP. | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/weather-muncie-indiana-national-weather-service-forecast-today-tomorrow-near-me-nws/7608177001/ | 2022-06-13T23:25:53 | 0 | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/weather-muncie-indiana-national-weather-service-forecast-today-tomorrow-near-me-nws/7608177001/ |
ARCADIA, Fla. — An adored youth soccer coach in Arcadia is dead following an awful accident Saturday night. Troopers report the 17-year-old, Bryan Sanchez, hit a power pole and then died from electrocution.
People have been stopping at a memorial at the crash site all day long, coming to say their goodbyes, praying, and holding onto one another with tears in their eyes.
RELATED STORY: Arcadia teen dies in crash after touching power lines
“He was literally an angel to all of us,” Keila Trujillo said, Bryan’s sister.
“He made a difference, he really made a difference in a lot of people’s lives,” Amber Vilsaint added, a board member of the soccer federation where Sanchez coached.
Both Trujillo and Vilsaint agreed Sanchez leaves behind a lasting legacy.
“He was just one awesome kid,” Vilsaint said.
“Very fun, funny, loving,” Trujillo added.
There aren’t enough words to describe the teenager, according to those who loved him. Right now, they’re in the middle of a nightmare.
“Every morning we wake up and we wish it was just a dream, and it’s not,” Trujillo said.
That nightmare starts with 911 audio that is difficult for anyone to listen to.
You can hear a girl calling in to report an accident. The next thing you hear is her horrifically screaming.
“I just saw him in front of me get electrocuted,” the girl said.
On scene at SW Robin Road, you can see the broken wood where the power pole snapped. Troopers report Bryan hit the pole, survived, and then somehow touched live wires.
In the 911 audio, you hear the dispatcher ask how she knows Bryan.
“He was my boyfriend,” the girl said.
“It’s your boyfriend?” the dispatcher replied.
“Yes,” the girl responded
As grief sets in, small-town Arcadia is doing what it does best: supporting its own in times of tragedy.
“Everybody knew him and who he was. I mean, and that is why I believe that our community will come together,” Vilsaint said.
She works with the Desoto County Youth Soccer Federation where Bryan coached for three years. In 2022, he brought his team almost to the finals. They finished second in the league.
“His kids loved him. They just always, when he was here, I don’t think any of his kids missed practice,” Vilsaint said.
“It hurts to see [the players] cause they’ve asked what are we going to do for soccer next year? Who’s going to be our coach? It’s hard,” Bryan’s sister said.
Trujillo said so many players were lifted up by her brother, who always knew how to praise his players. One was so touched by the teen’s influence, he left his trophy at the growing memorial.
“t’s so unbelievable that he was here, and now he’s not,” Trujillo said.
If you’d like to help the Sanchez family during this time, you can donate through the Desoto County Youth Soccer Federation or visit a BBQ happening this Saturday,
Count on NBC2 to share the details of that event when they are finalized.
The soccer organization is also renaming its summer cup in honor of the young coach who lost his life too soon. | https://nbc-2.com/news/local/2022/06/13/community-remembers-arcadia-youth-soccer-coach-killed-in-crash/ | 2022-06-13T23:32:30 | 1 | https://nbc-2.com/news/local/2022/06/13/community-remembers-arcadia-youth-soccer-coach-killed-in-crash/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/court-hears-testimony-in-day-4-of-the-trial-of-man-accused-in-officers-killing/2991420/ | 2022-06-13T23:34:45 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/court-hears-testimony-in-day-4-of-the-trial-of-man-accused-in-officers-killing/2991420/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/family-of-transgender-woman-who-died-while-in-custody-is-speaking-out/2991419/ | 2022-06-13T23:34:52 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/family-of-transgender-woman-who-died-while-in-custody-is-speaking-out/2991419/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – Pick up your putters and get ready to putt your way through downtown Charleston.
Partnering with FestivALL and the City of Charleston, Charleston Area Alliance is offering a free pop-up putt-putt golf course throughout June.
The course includes 26 holes, all of which were built by Ben Franklin Career Center students and decorated by local businesses.
Susie Salisbury, vice president of community development for Charleston Area Alliance, said their partnership with Ben Franklin Career Center is a “win-win.”
“We’re thrilled to be able to incorporate the education system into a real-life project,” Salisbury said.
The students are able to learn new skills, such as communicating with clients, setting deadlines and budgeting, all the while assisting with the creation of the putt putt course.
In addition to providing students a valuable educational opportunity, Salisbury said it’s something the whole family can enjoy.
“We just want people to come out and really enjoy downtown Charleston,” Salisbury said. “And you can do it morning, afternoon or evening. You can always get access to the putters and balls.”
You can pick up your putters at several locations around downtown including Taylor Books, Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille, Art Emporium and Tony The Tailor.
The event will run until June 27. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/charleston-area-alliance-offers-free-putt-putt-golf-for-festivall/ | 2022-06-13T23:38:23 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/charleston-area-alliance-offers-free-putt-putt-golf-for-festivall/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – A former Kanawha County elementary school counselor has pleaded guilty in a child pornography case.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, court documents show Todd Christopher Roatsey, 43, of Elkview pleaded guilty to charges of attempted production of child pornography and attempted enticement of a minor. At the time of the allegations, Roatsey was working as a school counselor at Pinch Elementary School in Kanawha County.
Court documents say Roatsey admitted to posing as an 18-year-old on Snapchat, and, in January 2020, began communicating with a girl he believed to be 16 years old and a second girl he also believed was a minor. According to court records, Roatsey persuaded the girls to record and send “numerous sexually explicit videos” and also sent them explicit videos of himself.
According to documents presented in court, Roatsey allegedly used the Snapchat account to communicate with “several minor females he knew through his position as a Pinch Elementary School counselor.” Those communications included more than 100 Snapchat conversations that he recorded with two girls who were both approximately 12 years old.
Court records say one of those girls was a Pinch Elementary Student at the time.
The DOJ also says Roatsey admitted to “distributing, receiving, possessing, and accessing child pornography” from October 9, 2019 through July 16, 2021. Court documents say this includes images and videos depicting infants and toddlers. Those images were found on devices seized from Roatsey’s home including his cell phone, an encrypted cloud-based file storage service, and the Kik app.
According to court records, Roatsey also distributed various images and videos of “prepubescent minors” engaged in sexually explicit conduct to other people.
“The crimes to which the defendant pleaded guilty today are truly horrific,” said United States Attorney Will Thompson. “They are made even worse because the defendant was a school counselor at a grade school. Schools are often the only constant for so many of our children, and are often seen for some children as their only safe place. Due to the challenges our children face today, it has never been more important for our children to have grown-ups at school they can turn to and trust. Our children need to feel safe in our schools.”
Court documents say Roatsey deleted the Snapchat account just hours before Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant at his home and seized numerous electronic devices on Oct. 28, 2021. The DOJ says that by deleting the account, Roatsey obstructed justice because the action made various Snapchat records inaccessible to law enforcement and, therefore, unavailable for any subsequent federal prosecution.
Roatsey faces between 25 and 35 years in prison, followed by federal supervised released for the rest of his life, when he is sentenced on Sept. 14, 2022. He is also required to register as a sex offender. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/former-elementary-school-counselor-pleads-guilty-in-child-pornography-case/ | 2022-06-13T23:38:29 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/former-elementary-school-counselor-pleads-guilty-in-child-pornography-case/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — An upcoming heat wave will leave many Charleston residents working up a thirst, and one local organization will provide cold water to help people cool down.
Step by Step, an organization dedicated to helping Southern West Virginia communities, will operate a cooling station at Kanawha Dreamers Family Resource Center, 1401 4th Ave. on Charleston’s West Side. The station will be open from Tuesday, June 14, to Friday, June 17, between 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Water and ice will be available. Hours may be extended based on need. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/local-organization-to-host-cooling-station-on-charlestons-west-side-during-heat-wave/ | 2022-06-13T23:38:35 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/local-organization-to-host-cooling-station-on-charlestons-west-side-during-heat-wave/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — The U.S. Senate has reached a tentative deal on certain gun restrictions, in an effort to curb mass shootings.
West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin is among those at the center of it. If this ultimately passes, it would mark the first time in 30 years any significant gun-related legislation came out of Congress.
The legislation comes in the wake of a Texas school shooting two weeks ago which left 21 dead.
This bill would not ban assault weapons, nor raise the age to buy them to 21. But it would provide millions of dollars to enhance school security.
It would allow deeper background checks on gun buyers between the ages of 18 and 21. And it would allow state “red flag” laws with court orders to take guns from people identified with mental illness and likely to harm someone. Two West Virginia leaders are sharply divided on red flag laws.
“When they see all the investments we are making into mental illness and trying to prevent and help young people who are very disturbed and having a hard time identifying, I think they’ll be seeing the value in what we are doing,” said Sen. Joe Manchin, (D) West Virginia, who is supportive of red flag laws.
“You know Red Flag laws within West Virginia, I think the key to the whole thing is with West Virginians, is one thing and that is proper due process,” Gov. Jim Justice, (R) West Virginia, who is concerned red flag laws might be abused.
Ten Senate Republicans have said they will support the bill, meaning it will pass if all Democrats vote yes.
Senator Shelly Moore Capito praised the bipartisan effort but says she must wade through the details before deciding how she will vote.
Sen. Rob Portman (R) Ohio, is one of the 10 GOP lawmakers to commit to passing the bill. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/wv-politicians-react-to-possible-gun-and-anti-crime-measures-from-dc/ | 2022-06-13T23:38:41 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/wv-politicians-react-to-possible-gun-and-anti-crime-measures-from-dc/ |
DES MOINES, Iowa — Money's tight for a lot of families right now; there's no way around that.
Inflation and rising fuel costs are just a few reasons families might be struggling to put food on the table, and there's more people dealing with that reality than you might expect.
According to the Des Moines Area Religious Council, visits to their pantries in April were up 40% from last year's numbers. In May, visits increased 60% compared to May 2021. DMARC employees said there's no sign of these trends slowing down any time soon.
"With children being out of school as well, we always see kind of a bump in use in the summer. I think we're going to continue to see higher numbers throughout the summer and into the fall," said Luke Elzinga, Communications & Advocacy Manager for DMARC.
In April and May, more than 1,000 people made their first-ever visit to one of DMARC's pantries, another sign of the increasing need for food assistance.
But what's driving that? One possible factor is the additional SNAP benefits distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic which recently expired.
Over two months after losing her SNAP benefits, she said it's been an difficult change to deal with.
"I was able to stockpile some canned foods. So lots of soup and lots of tuna fish. And that's what I've been living off of the past two months for the majority," Kramer said.
Kramer isn't alone in that struggle. More than 15,000 people received food assistance from DMARC in May alone.
While pantries work to keep their shelves stocked, Kramer said she's worried about the situation improving in the long term. She's traded meals with neighbors and received food from a local church. But without a major change on the horizon, she just feels stuck.
"It's not sustainable. Someone can get me a meal for supper to get me going for the day, but then the next day, I feel like I'm back to square one again," Kramer said.
If you'd like to organize a donation to one of DMARC's pantries, you can find information about how to do that here. | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/dmarc-seeing-rising-demand-at-metro-food-pantries-hunger-food-iowa-metro-snap-benefit-reduction/524-4908bbd5-9d50-403b-a16d-86ebd4ca0e65 | 2022-06-13T23:40:33 | 0 | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/dmarc-seeing-rising-demand-at-metro-food-pantries-hunger-food-iowa-metro-snap-benefit-reduction/524-4908bbd5-9d50-403b-a16d-86ebd4ca0e65 |
DES MOINES, Iowa — As temperatures continue to rise, Iowans are worried about staying cool. According to MidAmerican Energy, that should be no sweat.
MidAmerican Energy spokesperson Geoff Greenwood said this is something they deal with every summer. He expects the power grid to easily handle customers' demand, as long as renewables can hold up their end of the deal.
"For many years now, we've been adding to our wind fleet," Greenwood said. "And so wind is a significant part of our energy portfolio."
Wind energy isn't the only form of renewable energy MidAmerican has up its sleeve.
"We've added solar in this last year, and of course, we have our traditional thermal resources as well," Greenwood said. "And when you combine all of those, we're in a pretty good spot here in Iowa."
In mid-June, breezes will help keep people cool, while also keeping the air conditioning cranking inside.
Contingency plans are in place for when the wind calms down and heat continues to blaze on, Greenwood said.
"We've got backup generation that we can use. Additionally, we can ask some commercial and industrial customers who have signed up for a better rate to start reducing their demand, which is a significant amount of energy," Greenwood said.
One way households can help save energy is by joining MidAmerican's SummerSaver program. The program entails allowing MidAmerican to control your air conditioning unit on the hottest weekdays between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Not only will participants help save energy, they can also earn up to $30 annually. To sign up for the program, visit the 'My Account' page on the MidAmerican website.
Only once all of these options had been exhausted would MidAmerican ask the public to reduce energy usage. A rolling blackout would be the last resort, Greenwood said.
"It hasn't happened here," Greenwood said. "And we're not seeing that in the cards."
For more information on staying cool, check out these tips from Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating and Cooling:
- Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature. Programmed temperature changes will force your system to work harder to keep up with demand.
- Replace your air filter and set your fan to ON instead of AUTO. This will ensure maximum airflow to all parts of your home.
- Make sure your outdoor air conditioning unit is free from any debris and the coil is clean.
- Keep windows & blinds closed. Limit opening your doors.
- Limit the use of heat generating appliances like your oven, dryer and dishwasher. Keep use of these to the cooler evening hours.
- Make sure all vents are open and free from any obstruction.
- Finally, if you see ice forming on any part of your air conditioner – turn off the system so it can thaw and call for service. | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/midamerican-energy-heat-wave-increased-demand/524-80e132b2-3926-4d75-877c-6325128eb846 | 2022-06-13T23:40:39 | 0 | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/midamerican-energy-heat-wave-increased-demand/524-80e132b2-3926-4d75-877c-6325128eb846 |
MILTON, Pa. — A juvenile now faces arson charges after a fire in Northumberland County.
The home on Myrtle Street in Milton burned earlier this month.
Three people were inside at the time of the fire but made it out okay.
In addition to arson, that juvenile faces charges of assault and reckless endangerment.
See news happening? Text our Newstip Hotline. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/northumberland-county/juvenile-charged-with-arson-in-milton-fire-northumberland-county-myrtle-street-assault-reckless-endangerment/523-e896d370-60d1-4fbf-a3df-e2ce0bbd733b | 2022-06-13T23:42:46 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/northumberland-county/juvenile-charged-with-arson-in-milton-fire-northumberland-county-myrtle-street-assault-reckless-endangerment/523-e896d370-60d1-4fbf-a3df-e2ce0bbd733b |
January 8, 1932 – June 9, 2022
Ed Pride passed away on June 9, 2022 at the age of 90. He was born January 8, 1932 in a little coal mining community on Windrock Mountain in east Tennessee. He was the youngest son of Charlie Greer Pride and Viola Melton.
Ed joined the United States Air Force in 1950 and began a life of adventure, moving about 20 times over the next 21 years! On February 3, 1954, while stationed in San Rafael, California, Ed married Ellen Strode (daughter of Elmer and Alice). Ed retired, a Tech Sergeant, from the Air Force in 1971 and moved his family to Myrtle Point, Oregon (near where Ellen grew up). Ed and Ellen both attended Southwestern Oregon Community College in Coos Bay and graduated with Associate degrees in 1981. Ed supplemented his military retirement working at various jobs through the years: School District Maintenance, Meat Cutter for McKay’s, Salesman at Brewer’s Shoes & Clothing, and Coast to Coast. Ed and Ellen worked at Crater Lake for several years as dorm parents and maintenance in the original lodge. They also were very active as volunteers in the AARP Tax-Aide program throughout western Oregon. Ed and Ellen have been an active part of Arago Community Church throughout the years, supporting Happy Wanderers, AWANA and Camp Fircroft in various ways.
Ed is survived by his wife and their four children, Ed & Raye Pride of Everett, WA, Tom & Jackie Pride of Thompson Falls, MT, Debbie & Jeff Williams of Sitkum, OR, and Greg & Angie Pride of Myrtle Point, OR. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 18, 2022 at the Dora Cemetery.
Online remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.westrumfuneralservice.com | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/obituaries/edward-eugene-pride/article_c0764e5e-eb60-11ec-9c90-ef9aeaf96e7c.html | 2022-06-13T23:44:48 | 0 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/obituaries/edward-eugene-pride/article_c0764e5e-eb60-11ec-9c90-ef9aeaf96e7c.html |
DALLAS — Some residents in the City of Dallas are waiting and watching to see what the future may hold for the city manager, T.C. Broadnax.
City council members have requested a special meeting on Wednesday, June 15. The council is expected to discuss Broadnax’s job performance and future as a city leader.
“If a third or more of my Council comes to me and says they want to have a discussion about something, I don’t stymie the discussion,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said as he addressed questions about the looming meeting.
Johnson said the closed-door meeting could also include discussions about performance recommendations, contract termination or the possibility of Broadnax’s resignation.
In a tweet published on Sunday, council member Cara Mendelsohn mentioned many council members are citing the permitting process as a main reason to fire the city manager.
Mendelsohn wrote, “That is a big one, but my top concern is tech. How IT data loss was handled & resulting awareness of problems is shocking.”
The Dallas Fire Fighters Association is also chiming in with criticism. In a letter, the organization’s leaders are blasting Broadnax.
“His tenure has been pockmarked by missteps and failures that have put a strain on all firefighters,” wrote Jim McDade, president of Dallas Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 58.
The letter goes on to call out the alleged deplorable conditions at several fire stations and faulty equipment.
“Years of red tape, permitting issues, and delays from every city department who is involved in the process have caused areas of the City of Dallas to lack Fire and EMS coverage endangering citizens and visitors,” McDade explained.
Some other council members have pointed out concerns about the city manager’s response to 911 calls, homelessness, public safety and other areas they allege have not shown improvement.
Broadnax did not respond to requests for comment on Monday.
In a statement last week, Broadnax said, “I am proud of the hard work which has lead to accomplishments of many goals related to the City Council’s eight strategic priorities.”
Mayor Johnson said he wouldn’t go into detail about specific concerns, citing personnel matters. He said the meeting would be conducted professionally.
“We are all going to get in a room and we’re going to have a discussion about the actual progress that’s been made or not been made on the issues that have been expressed by that board to that executive…and we’ll see what happens,” Johnson explained.
Dallas city council’s special meeting about Broadnax’s job performance is scheduled for Wednesday, June 15, at 12 p.m. in the council briefing room of Dallas City Hall. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/critics-blast-dallas-city-manager-performance-special-council-meeting/287-2a92b2f8-150b-435e-b766-6d8f8f2416ff | 2022-06-13T23:46:59 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/critics-blast-dallas-city-manager-performance-special-council-meeting/287-2a92b2f8-150b-435e-b766-6d8f8f2416ff |
DALLAS — A woman died en route to a Dallas hospital after police restrained her during an incident outside of a business last month, police announced Wednesday, releasing information and body camera footage of what happened.
Dee Dee Hall, 47, died May 26. Her cause of death has not been determined.
Police had responded to a disturbance near a car lot along the 12000 block of Garland Road, in northeast Dallas.
A 911 caller had reported that a woman, identified by police as Hall, was causing a disturbance inside the business. The caller reported that the woman appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Two officers responded and found Hall outside of the business in an apparent "altered mental state," police said. She was initially not responding to officers when they asked her questions, the video showed. She then collapsed while talking with Dallas Fire-Rescue paramedics.
Hall then stood up, yelled at police and paramedics and began taking her clothes off, police said. At that point, police tried to restrain her and took her to the ground, where she continued to "thrash about and scream," Deputy Chief Terrence Rhodes said.
Crews then put her on a stretcher and into an ambulance. On the way to Baylor hospital, Hall "became quiet and started to lose vital signs," Rhodes said.
Crews performed CPR, but Hall died shortly after the ambulance arrived at Baylor.
The police department's Special Investigations Unit is investigating Hall's death. Detectives have met with her family to review the body camera footage.
Rhodes said the medical examiner's office is awaiting toxicology reports before determining Hall's cause of death.
Editor's note: An earlier version of this article referred to Hall by a name other than the one she went by at the time of her death. This story has been updated to more accurately and appropriately identify her.
More Dallas news: | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dee-dee-hall-woman-dies-on-way-to-hospital-after-being-restrained-by-dallas-police-officials-say/287-6797378b-1503-4ae8-ab1f-814e820800ac | 2022-06-13T23:47:05 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dee-dee-hall-woman-dies-on-way-to-hospital-after-being-restrained-by-dallas-police-officials-say/287-6797378b-1503-4ae8-ab1f-814e820800ac |
DALLAS — Professors like SMU's Michael Davis liken being an economist right now to being a TV weatherman in the middle of a hurricane. And, much like a meteorologist who is warning people about the misery yet to come, the audience might not like much of what he has to say either right now.
"We're seeing these massive dark clouds on the horizon," Michael Davis, PhD. said of the current economic climate in the United States. "And we're seeing the barometric pressure drop by a lot. So, it sure looks like there's a hurricane coming."
On Monday the Dow Jones Industrials dropped more than 874 points or 2.79%. According to AAA, gasoline is averaging $4.66 for a gallon of regular in Texas, $5.01 nationwide and $6.43 in California. Inflation, as measured by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reached a 40-year high of 8.6% in May.
"I think you've got to be very modest about what we know about this inflation process," said Mohamed El -Erian, chief economic advisor at Allianz. "And I fear that it's still going to get worse. We may well get to 9% at this rate."
Amid this financial hurricane the Fed meets this Wednesday, deciding whether to raise a key interest rate a half percent or a more urgent three-quarter percent and flirt with fueling a full blown recession.
"We're kind of in uncertain territory," said SMU's Mike Davis. "But historically, when the economy gets to a point like where it is now, recessions follow."
As for looking for any silver linings in this financial storm, economists point to the unemployment rate: according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics extremely low at 3.6%, not what Davis says you would normally see in a recession.
"We have to be very clear here. This inflation is having a huge impact on a number of households, sadly mostly lower income households, but at least they're mostly keeping their jobs," added Davis. "If the lower income households were experiencing inflation, and all of a sudden a bunch of people start losing their jobs, that's when it becomes a real crisis."
A crisis and a hurricane not yet showing signs of fading away. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/economist-likens-current-inflation-crisis-looming-hurricane/287-2580798a-165d-4b47-b76f-c2288729ccd5 | 2022-06-13T23:47:11 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/economist-likens-current-inflation-crisis-looming-hurricane/287-2580798a-165d-4b47-b76f-c2288729ccd5 |
DALLAS — Last week, Dallas police released details about a woman who died on the way to a hospital while in custody.
While the investigation continues, the family of 47-year-old DeeDee Hall says her death could’ve been preventable and that they want a fair investigation.
“Always helping people. Giving, and just loving,” said Robbi Reed, the victim’s cousin.
Heartbroken and overwhelmed, Reed shared memories of her cousin.
“DeeDee was full of life,” said Reed.
Hall died while being taken to Baylor Hospital at the end of May.
“The mistreatment that I witnessed was hard to watch. It dehumanized DeeDee,” said Reed.
Dallas police released body-cam footage of their encounters with DeeDee right before her death.
“What’s going on? The people at the cars were worried about you,” was heard in the body-cam footage.
Police responded to a 911 call on Garland Road, south of Interstate 635.
“The caller said he believes the subject was under the influence of some sort of drugs or alcohol due the suspect yelling and falling down,” said Terrence Rhodes, deputy chief at the Dallas Police Department.
Body-cam: “What’s your name? Ladamonyon Hall.”
A few minutes later, footage shows DeeDee taking off her clothes..
Body-cam: “They all left me.”
The video shows rescue crews restrain her, take her into the ambulance and place a spit hood over her head.
Body-cam: “Yelling in ambulance.”
During the ride in the ambulance, crews can be heard laughing.
Body-cam: "Hell of a day so far man."
All while DeeDee is struggling to breathe.
Body-cam: "It’s hot dude… mama.."
“You basically see DeeDee telling those folks in the back of the ambulance that she’s dying,” said Justin Moore, a civil rights attorney.
DeeDee’s family says the crew wasn’t giving her the proper attention she needed.
“It showed the actions were inhumane. It almost treated DeeDee like a thing, instead of a person,” said Reed.
Body-cam: “She pulled the dress off, we’re like wow wow.”
Moore is advising the family and wants a fair investigation.
“We want the office of police community of oversight to look into the use of spit hoods,” said Moore.
The family wants someone to be held accountable for their loved one's death.
“The light of all of our lives. Kept us all laughing,” said Reed. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/family-asking-fair-investigation-woman-died-dallas-police-custody/287-ccdf1dad-9a99-423f-84d2-72593b1049c4 | 2022-06-13T23:47:17 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/family-asking-fair-investigation-woman-died-dallas-police-custody/287-ccdf1dad-9a99-423f-84d2-72593b1049c4 |
FORT WORTH, Texas — As the temperatures heat up across Texas, so does the demand for power and people looking for ways to keep cool. MedStar's heat-related emergency runs are through the roof, officials say.
Matt Zavadsky serves as the spokesperson for MedStar and keeps track of the numbers. He recently compared emergency heat runs to last year's calls.
"Probably again, because of the early high temperatures and more people being out and about," said Zavadsky, of the rising heat-related calls.
MedStar crews can respond quickly thanks to their ongoing standby practices. Ambulance drivers stay parked in areas with high call volumes. In some cases when an ambulance crew is dispatched and leaves a staging location, another crew awaiting calls will take the same spot knowing they too may be needed at any time.
"Right now, we're at the QuikTrip at Las Vegas and 30," Zavadsky said. "We know that there's going to be a call here sometime in the next hour."
People, like power crews who work outside, are at higher risk of the hotter temperatures. MedStar urges work crews, and people in general, to take precautions.
"There are 16 bottles of water in this ambulance for every crew that's going to be in the truck for 12 hours," said Zavadsky, on the preparations paramedics and EMTs take while awaiting calls in the heat.
According to Medstar, the most common symptom of heat exhaustion, which is the first phase of a heat-related illness, is profuse sweating, muscle cramps, and some nausea with potentially vomiting.
"Someone that has those symptoms, it is time to get out of the heat, move into a cooler environment and start drinking water like crazy right now," said Zavadsky.
The City of Fort Worth has not announced any locations identified as cooling stations. For people without access to air conditioning, city leaders urge them to get out of the heat and take advantage of cool places, like community centers and libraries. There's one at 3628 Bernie Anderson Avenue, which is open to the public until 8 p.m.
The same demand to keep cool is impacting the power grids across Texas.
Doug Lewin is a power use and energy expert. He's also the president of Stoic Energy Consulting. Lewin has even evaluated how his own family uses energy at home.
"We don't want to spend most of our money on utility costs either." Lewin said. "We're only in June."
Lewin warns, brace yourself, as hot temperatures challenge the power grid, especially since it has gotten hotter sooner in the Lone Star State. Lewin believes in conservation, still, he wants Texas to help more homeowners conserve by making their houses and residents more energy efficient.
Other states have had success in doing so, but Texas's population is growing -- resulting in more energy and usage.
"Texas is one of them of course, spends about $50 million a year on energy efficiency programs. But per capita, that's about a third what even Arkansas, Oklahoma spent on their energy efficiency program," said Lewin.
Lewin also expressed concerns about the future for Texans demanding electricity as technology advances. More electric items at home will increase the demand.
"And this is going to become even bigger with electric vehicles as you think of all of them, what about 125,000 electric vehicles? We're only a few years away, probably to where we're a million, certainly half a million within a couple of years. Maybe as many as a million," Lewin said. "We live in an age now where so many devices are connected, right? They're connected to Wi-Fi. Everything from... if you bought a dishwasher, a washing machine in the last couple of years, it's connected. A lot of people have smart thermostats that are up over a million. There's basically everything can be connected, either already is connected or can be connected very cheaply. We should be using advances in A.I. and artificial intelligence and machines learning to move devices and appliances in homes up and down."
Lewin's concerns are timely, especially after what happened on the weekend of June 10 across Texas. Sunday, ERCOT saw its highest demand ever on the Texas girds. Fortunately, there was enough supply to meet the record demand. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/medstar-heat-related-calls-as-temperatures-hit-above-100-degree-north-texas/287-33db78a3-364b-4af2-b98f-ad0ec11fd7f6 | 2022-06-13T23:47:23 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/medstar-heat-related-calls-as-temperatures-hit-above-100-degree-north-texas/287-33db78a3-364b-4af2-b98f-ad0ec11fd7f6 |
DALLAS — Police in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho said Monday there was “no doubt” members of a North-Texas based hate group planned to riot during the city’s Pride event.
Saturday afternoon, police arrested 31 men connected to Patriot Front, a white supremacist, neo-Nazi group. Seven of the men arrested are from Texas and six are from the metroplex, including the group’s founder, 23-year-old Thomas Rousseau of Grapevine.
Police say a concerned citizen called 911 when they saw the group wearing body armor and loading into a U-Haul truck. They were stopped and arrested and face misdemeanor charges for conspiracy to riot. In a press conference Monday, the city’s police chief said the group had shields, shin guards and a smoke grenade.
“I have no doubt in my mind that if that van had stopped at the park or near the park there would have been a riot,” Chief Lee White said. “That level of preparation is not something that you see every day. It was very clear to us immediately that this was a riotous group that had prepared in advance to come downtown and disrupt either the Pride event or the Prayer in the Park event.”
Patriot Front is a hate group formed after the deadly Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, VA in 2017.
“They’re essentially promoting the same kind of old-fashioned white supremacy that we’ve seen for a long, long time by groups like the Ku Klux Klan and various Nazi type groups,” Pete Simi, PhD, an extremism researcher and professor at Chapman University said. “When you peel back the layers, they are talking about violence, they are promoting violence so they are very consistent with what you see in that respect with the Proud Boys and some of the other groups that are more commonly seen carrying weapons.”
“What you see with Patriot Front is this group that really attempts to try and wrap itself in this bastardized version of American patriotism,” Jon Lewis, a research fellow at George Washington University’s Program on Extremism said. “You see that in the iconography, you see that with their outfits, carrying American flags, dressed in patriotic colors but when you really look at the public and private messages that have been leaked by the group it’s white supremacy, it’s neo-Nazism, it’s anti-Semitism.”
Simi and Lewis said the group focuses its efforts on university campuses and trying to recruit using flyers that hide their violent rhetoric.
“They’ll present themselves in different kinds of ways using more subtle or coded messages in hopes that they’ll be more effective in terms of marketing themselves, basically, and recruiting,” Simi said.
“It’s this kind of intentional softening of the message, this kind of wink and nod, coded language to 'in-groups' that know what they’re talking about,” Lewis said.
White supremacy and hate groups are growing nationwide and both researchers say the increasingly aggressive political culture across the country and in Texas is fueling recruiting and normalizing rhetoric once considered fringe.
“In areas like Florida, like Texas, you see a very close, interconnected, almost symbiotic relationship where, again, you see that call and response, that parroting, the integration of, again, of extremist groups, domestic violence extremist groups,” Lewis said. “This kind of bourgeoning mainstreaming of this idea on the right that political violence against the enemy, against whoever is that 'out-group' isn’t just permissive, it’s acceptable. It’s needed.”
“We see congressional officials that are expressing the same ideas, basically, so that’s a huge win for groups like Patriot Front, the Proud Boys and others,” Simi said. “You have a large culture that has been able to persist over the years and is now growing because of certain kinds of political opportunities that have been made available including the Trump presidency and the potential 2024 run.”
Those arrested from Texas at the event in Idaho are:
Connor Patrick Moran - 23 from Watauga, TX
Graham Jones Whitsom - 31 from Haslet, TX
Thomas Ryan Rousseau - 23 from Grapevine, TX
Kieran Padraig Morris - 27 from Haslet, TX
Steven Derrick Tucker - 30 from Haslet, TX
Josiah Daniel Buster - 24 from Watauga, TX
Robert Benjamin Whitted - 22 from Conroe, TX | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/north-texas-based-hate-groups-arrests-idaho-show-wide-reach-white-supremacy-researchers/287-079c22e7-1d56-45f9-b0e7-2f9520cc3422 | 2022-06-13T23:47:29 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/north-texas-based-hate-groups-arrests-idaho-show-wide-reach-white-supremacy-researchers/287-079c22e7-1d56-45f9-b0e7-2f9520cc3422 |
JOHNSON CITY, (Tenn.) — According to Ballad Health leaders, the heart of a community can be measured by how it treats its children.
Our region’s only children’s hospital is taking a major step forward when it comes to access to care for sick and injured kids by expanding – adding three total floors to the Niswonger Children’s Hospital in Johnson City.
With $21 million raised to date, hospital system leaders and donors gathered Monday at the site of new construction to announce that phase one of construction is now underway.
“This is something that is truly regional in nature and it is truly going to be transformational,” said Ballad President and CEO Alan Levine.
Ballad leaders say they are quite literally raising the standard of healthcare for children from every corner of our region as they build two brand new floors on top of the existing hospital.
“The services that will be available to the children of this region, it will be something like we have never had before,” said Scott Niswonger, founding donor of the Niswonger Children’s Hospital and member of Ballad’s board of directors.
Niswonger’s financial contributions lead to the opening of his namesake hospital in 2009. This past year alone, the hospital treated 18,000 children from the region and now houses 20 different pediatric specialties.
It is a donation from another Tri-Cities family that helped launch the hospital’s current expansion: the Nicewonders, not to be confused with the Niswongers.
“To the J.D. Nicewonder family, thank you very much for this contribution in expanding the services that will be available to the children of this region,” said Niswonger.
Levine says it was over a Chic-fil-A lunch that the expansion’s initial $7 million in funding was secured.
“We didn’t even finish the first 20 minutes of our presentation and he said, ‘We are in. We believe in this vision,'” Levine said. “This wouldn’t have gotten started without the J.D. Nicewonder family saying, ‘We see your vision, we believe in it, and we want to see it happen.'”
Another $484,000 was brought in by the Niswonger Children’s Hospital Radiothon this year, where members of the community made their contributions to the expansion.
Nick Robinette, corporate director of construction and project management for Ballad Health, says the logistics behind a veritcal expansion are tricky, but possible.
“The roof membrane will come off and we will start the construction up,” Robinette explained.
“Cranes will be swinging, and we can’t shut down the hospital. We’re gonna have to work closely with the clinical team and leadership team to make sure they are very aware of where we are working and what we are doing to make sure patient safety always comes first.”
The construction will bring new spaces for specialty care throughout pregnancy, childbirth and into childhood, all consolidated to one place. A concept that has been a longtime goal of Niswonger Children’s Hospital CEO and former NICU nurse Lisa Carter.
“We want to get all of those clinics here so families can come to one location and not have to travel back and forth on this campus, across the street, and other areas,” said Carter.
Carter added NICU nurses and physicians have played a close role in the design of the new neonatal units, helping design every aspect from where the clock hangs on the wall to where the ventilator is placed.
The construction project boasts neonatal care for the smallest of patients like never before seen in the Tri-Cities region.
“This will turn the NICU into more of a patient room environment, they will have private rooms, they will be able to spend time with their families,” said Robinette.
The target finish date for construction is set for the fall of 2024.
Ballad Health is still looking to raise $9 million to reach its fundraising goal of $30 million.
Contributions can be made online for those who wish to donate. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/construction-begins-at-niswonger-childrens-hospital-expanding-3-floors/ | 2022-06-13T23:52:26 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/construction-begins-at-niswonger-childrens-hospital-expanding-3-floors/ |
BRISTOL, Tenn. (WJHL) — The fate of a Bristol Tennessee-area utility facing allegations of potential financial mismanagement won’t be decided next month.
Meanwhile, a second member of the South Fork Utility District (SFUD) board of directors has resigned.
The Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has continued a hearing on the SFUD that was scheduled for July 14.
A comptroller’s investigation into South Fork found evidence of more than one point five million dollars in what it called questionable payments to companies owned by the utility’s manager, Garry Smith.
The state has recommended South Fork merge with another utility — which could prevent the need for a hearing. A new hearing date has not been set.
The board is now down to just three members after Joe Warren submitted his written resignation late last month.
The board’s status was discussed at a late April meeting of the state’s Utility Management Review Board (UMRB).
“Did you all see any measure of control whatsoever that this board had over what was going on?” UMRB member Bruce Giles asked UMRB staff during that meeting.
“I think the word ‘questionable’ was used multiple times, but when I read through pages and pages of this stuff, in my nine years on this board, this is what appears to be the worst case of abuse or whatever word, adjective I want to use. It appears there was almost no oversight with this board whatsoever into what was going on.”
UMRB staff members said board members did not appear to have utilized appropriate internal controls. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/hearing-on-embattled-utilitys-future-postponed/ | 2022-06-13T23:52:32 | 1 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/hearing-on-embattled-utilitys-future-postponed/ |
COVINGTON, Ga. — A grandmother is fighting for her life, after a gunman shot her and killed her daughter, then killed her one-year-old granddaughter over 40 miles away.
Newton County officials called it a case of domestic violence that escalated. Frederick McClurkin lives next door to the neighbors he considers family.
"The mother would take them every day and pick them up from school," McClurkin said. "That’s how defensive and protective she is. She protected her kids, but the end result is she couldn’t protect herself.”
Newton County deputies said Darian Bennett went over to the Covington home, shot both Keshawn Washington and her mother, Peggy Burns, then abducted his baby daughter Jaquari.
Washington was killed, while Burns went to the hospital. Deputies said Washington's two other kids were inside the home but were able to hide and were not hurt.
"They may be ruined for life if you understand what I’m saying, this traumatic thing that happened," McClurkin said. "Their mom is dead, grandma is in the hospital.”
Bennett then allegedly drove 40 miles to Riverdale with Jaquari, where he called police before killing the little girl and himself. Newton County deputies said Bennett was previously jailed in April on charges of harassment and making terroristic threats and actions.
As a bond condition, deputies said, Bennett was not to have contact with Washington. The two had been in several fights over the years. Family said at one point, Washington planned to get a temporary protective order.
"He was very good at talking to people," McClurkin said. "That’s what’s so crazy about it because there was a dark side.”
McClurkin said Burns is facing surgery later this week, as she fights for her life. Deputies said she was stable. McClurkin said Burns had just gotten off chemo treatment earlier this week and has been battling cancer for three years.
As part of the investigation, Newton County deputies said a ballistics report showed Bennett had two weapons on him. It's still unclear why Bennett reportedly drove to Riverdale before killing his baby and himself. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/deadly-amber-alert-father-kills-baby-grandmother-hospitalized/85-4abc695f-2493-4889-abba-a9ae639433fd | 2022-06-13T23:53:30 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/deadly-amber-alert-father-kills-baby-grandmother-hospitalized/85-4abc695f-2493-4889-abba-a9ae639433fd |
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — A Court Watch program is kicking off again in Fulton County, recruiting hundreds of citizens from across Fulton County to follow cases as they move through the system. The program aims to cut down on repeat offenders as it holds the court system accountable.
At a press conference Monday, District Attorney Fani Willis along with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Interim Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, Fulton County Chief Deputy Antonio Johnson, and Atlanta Police Foundation President Dave Wilkinson, explained the program and recruited applicants to sign up.
"When you see it over and over again, our officers get frustrated, community members are frustrated and there's victims on the other sides of these crimes," said Mayor Dickens.
The program was initially in place a few years ago, but then COVID hit and the pandemic shut it down. It will track the cases of more than 1,400 repeat offenders who have been arrested and convicted of three felonies already and this is their fourth arrest.
The volunteers will be trained and assigned a case to follow all the way through the system, gathering data on things like when bond is granted and for how much, and the sentences handed down.
"They're also going to send anecdotal advice on what happened in the courtroom what could've been done better and what their thoughts were," said Dickens.
It's a way to watch the court and hold the system accountable.
Willis said they're looking for 250 people to apply right now. To qualify, you must be at least 18 and live in Fulton County. She expects many seniors will apply and hopes the applicants will come from beyond Atlanta and all across the county.
"African American, Caucasian, Asian, Hispanic -- all the greatness and diversity that represents Fulton County is important because crime impacts all of us," said Willis.
The first training class will take place in August. Those interest can apply on the county's website. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/fulton-county-court-watch-program-atlanta/85-5b77da93-17c9-42ff-9108-a70225eea558 | 2022-06-13T23:53:36 | 0 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/fulton-county-court-watch-program-atlanta/85-5b77da93-17c9-42ff-9108-a70225eea558 |
PUTNAM COUNTY, Ga. — The jury in the Ricky Dubose trial reached a unanimous verdict on Monday on the 5th anniversary of Dubose initial crime spree. Dubose was found guilty of felony and malice murder in the killing of two corrections officers in 2017.
He’s one of two prison inmates who killed corrections officers Curtis Billue and Christopher Monica aboard a transport bus in Putnam County five years ago.
The killings set off a manhunt across several states. Dubose and fellow inmate Donnie Rowe were later caught in Tennessee.
During the opening arguments, District Attorney T. Wright Barksdale says Dubose went on a crime spree in 2017 with his "partner in crime" Donnie Rowe.
During closing arguments, Dubose's attorneys stated this case is a terrible crime committed by a man who is intellectually disabled and mentally ill.
The defense presented records showing Dubose was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck and did not have proper prenatal care.
They explained his mother smoked during the pregnancy, causing problems even before he was born and he struggled to walk, speak and go to school.
Before the bus attack, Dubose was referred to the Baldwin State prison doctor for medication. He never received the medication before the shooting.
Barksdale and his team said it was up to the defense to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Dubose was mentally ill at the time of act which impairs judgment and behavior and recognizes reality.
The jury sided with the prosecution and convicted Dubose on all counts.
Next up in the case is sentencing. Dubose will either be sentenced to death or life without the possibility of parole.
In Sept. 2021, a jury convicted Donnie Rowe of charges in connection with the case, including felony and malice murder. Rowe is now serving life without the possibility of parole.
Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills says both he and the officers' families were disappointed that the jury didn't vote for the death penalty in Rowe's case.
CASE TIMELINE
June 13, 2017: Investigators say Ricky Dubose and Donnie Rowe were being transported on a bus when they overpowered the two guards, killed them, and escaped. It happened on Highway 16 W of Sparta near Eatonton around 6:45 a.m. There were 33 prisoners and two guards on the bus.
A man was driving on the highway when he saw the stopped bus and thought it was part of a work detail. When he stopped his car, he was robbed at gunpoint. The driver was unharmed and flagged down the next car for help.
During a media briefing that night, Sheriff Howard Sills said the two inmates broke into a home in Morgan County earlier that day. The home was ransacked and Dubose and Rowe stole some food and clothes, according to Sills.
June 14, 2017: The search for the two inmates expanded around the Southeast. Authorities said they recovered the vehicle taken by the two escaped inmates near the scene of the house burglary.
That night, a white Ford F-250 was stolen from the Seven Islands Road area of Morgan County.
June 15, 2017: Police in Shelbyville, Tennessee, told the GBI they responded to a home invasion where the two inmates tied two people up and left the scene.
According to Bedford County Sheriff Austin Swing, Dubose and Rowe ditched a vehicle at the base of a hill in Shelbyville, covering the car with grass and branches.
Swing said they forced their way into a home at gunpoint and the couple who lived there spent the next three hours tied up while the fugitives ate their beef stew and pilfered their valuables.
He said the two stole the couple's Jeep Cherokee and led deputies on a high-speed chase followed by a foot chase down I-24 just south of Murfreesboro.
A nearby homeowner heard the men outside and held them at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived.
TIMELINE IN COURT
June 20, 2017: Dubose and Rowe make their first appearance in court. District Attorney Stephen Bradley requests the death penalty.
Nov 29, 2018: A trial date for Ricky Dubose is set for Sept. 2019.
Jan - March 2019: Hearings move jury selection for the trial to Grady County in southwest Georgia. The jury will then be transported to Putnam County.
Aug 2019: Dubose's trial is delayed to allow time for mental status testing.
Dec 2019: Dubose's trial is set for July 2020.
Feb. 16, 2022: During a pretrial hearing, Dubose's legal team argued he has an intellectual disability that should take the death penalty off the table.
May 2022: Jury selection for Dubose trial begins.
June 1, 2022: Dubose's trial begins | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/ricky-dubose-found-guilty-killing-of-two-georgia-corrections-officers/93-16a782b3-fe74-4b4c-bd99-eca4181d80bb | 2022-06-13T23:53:42 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/ricky-dubose-found-guilty-killing-of-two-georgia-corrections-officers/93-16a782b3-fe74-4b4c-bd99-eca4181d80bb |
Former Macomb County priest convicted of criminal sexual conduct
A former Macomb County priest has been convicted of sex abuse and faces prison, the Michigan Attorney General's Office announced Monday.
A jury in Macomb County Circuit Court on Friday convicted Neil Kalina of two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, records show.
The charges are 15-year felonies, investigators said in a statement.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 26 before Judge Diane Druzinski.
Kalina's lawyer, David Heyboer, declined to comment.
Kalina, who is now in his 60s, was first charged in May 2019 and arrested in Littlerock, California.
He served as a priest at St. Kiernan Catholic Church in Shelby Township from 1982-85.
The charges stem from contact in 1984, court records show.
He was accused of fondling a youth at St. Kieran after providing him alcohol and drugs, the Attorney General's office has reported.
Kalina was part of a religious order separate from the Archdiocese of Detroit, called the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Mission, and left the public ministry in 1993. An allegation against him was brought to the archdiocese in 2017 and forwarded to his order as well as the Shelby Township Police Department.
He was initially set to face trial last fall.
Kalina also faced a first-degree CSC charge, a felony punishable by up to life in prison, but the jury last week found him not guilty, records show.
“This conviction marks the sixth one secured by my clergy abuse team,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said Monday. “It’s also a reminder of our ongoing commitment to this investigation and the survivors in these cases. We will continue to fight for justice.”
In all, 11 people have been charged since the start of her office's clergy abuse investigation, officials said Monday. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2022/06/13/neil-kalina-former-macomb-county-priest-convicted-sex-abuse/7617343001/ | 2022-06-13T23:56:01 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2022/06/13/neil-kalina-former-macomb-county-priest-convicted-sex-abuse/7617343001/ |
Deputies recover small alligator after high-speed car chase in NW Michigan
Associated Press
Webber Township – Authorities have recovered a small alligator following a high-speed car chase in northwestern Michigan.
The vehicle’s driver refused to stop when a sergeant attempted to pull him over about 11 p.m. Saturday for speeding along U.S. 10, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said.
Other sheriff’s deputies and officers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources joined the pursuit which ended when the vehicle they were chasing got stuck between two trees in Webber Township, south of Traverse City.
Deputies caught the alligator outside the vehicle.
A 40-year-old man from suburban Detroit was arrested and faces charges related to the chase. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/06/13/alligator-michigan-high-speed-chase/50367503/ | 2022-06-13T23:56:07 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/06/13/alligator-michigan-high-speed-chase/50367503/ |
Blaze reported at Somerset Collection in Troy
Crews were responding to a fire Monday on the north side of the Somerset Collection in Troy.
Representatives for the mall said the fire started at the Capital Grille, which is located on the ground floor near Zara and Macy's on the north side of Big Beaver. Another set of upscale stories are located on the south side of the road.
"Somerset security and the fire department responded very quickly and are mitigating the fire and smoke," mall representatives said in a statement to The Detroit News. "They’re still investigating the cause of the fire."
No injuries were reported, the representatives said.
"Somerset Collection remains open although some areas are temporarily closed," their statement.
Somerset is sprawling collection of more than 140 shops and restaurants located in two large mall building that are connected by an elevated enclosed bridge above Big Beaver.
Troy fire officials confirmed they were on the scene after 5:30 p.m. but said no one was available to provide additional details.
The response appeared to have been focused on the roof of the north side mall.
"If you are near Somerset Mall, please be safe and keep the area clear for emergency services!" State Rep. Padma Kuppa, D-Troy, said on Twitter.
Come back to detroitnews.com for updates. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/oakland-county/2022/06/13/fire-reported-somerset-collection-troy/7616820001/ | 2022-06-13T23:56:13 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/oakland-county/2022/06/13/fire-reported-somerset-collection-troy/7616820001/ |
SAN ANTONIO — A series of bipartisan legislation could pave the way toward creating a safer society by restricting domestic violence offenders from purchasing firearms.
“We are not after the Second Amendment. We are for the removal of guns from the hands of perpetrators and abusers,” said Marta Pelaez, president and CEO of Family Violence Prevention Services.
Family Violence Prevention Services has advocated and cared for domestic violence survivors over the last 45 years, providing free legal assistance, 24-hour emergency shelter and violence intervention programs.
Pelaez knows how dangerous life is for those feeling like there’s no way out of a toxic home environment.
“Guns play a major role in domestic violence. The accessibility, the way they are used, sometimes just facetiously placed for the victim to see it as a reminder to maintain the threat constant and alive,” Pelaez said.
Senate Democrats and Republicans have agreed on a package deal of legislation addressing safety and gun control.
One of the proposed provisions would make it harder for convicted domestic abusers from buying a gun, and in turn, addressing the so-called “boyfriend-loophole.”
“This should be the law of the land. It’s not supposed to be a party issue. This is about the safety of people in our country,” said Patricia Castillo, executive director of the P.E.A.C.E Initiative (Putting an End to Abuse through Community Efforts).
The P.E.A.C.E Initiative provides an array of training, education and variety of services for those impacted by domestic violence.
The non-profit conducts the domestic violence survivor program, which gives low-income men and women who need a lawyer to help remedy their situations.
The Texas Council on Family Violence reported the greatest number of domestic violence-related homicides in 2020 compared to any other year in the past decade.
The report revealed 228 people were killed in 68 Texas counties.
Harris County recorded the largest number of deaths at 37 while 17 people in Bexar County were killed.
The majority of the victims were killed by a perpetrator with a gun, according to the Texas Council on Family Violence.
Castillo noted most mass shooters have their roots and upbringing in domestic violence episodes.
“This is why the connection for us is so imperative because we work on domestic violence, and we know what it can help to create and nurture in terms of people who do these kinds of mass shootings,” Castillo said.
While Castillo and Pelaez welcome the upcoming legislation as a small step toward saving lives, they emphasized there’s still much more that can and should be done. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/domestic-violence-advocates-remain-hopeful-that-bipartisan-legislation-will-help-keeps-guns-out-of-abusers-hands/273-efa3d83c-b150-453e-b436-3b847239a1b2 | 2022-06-13T23:58:34 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/domestic-violence-advocates-remain-hopeful-that-bipartisan-legislation-will-help-keeps-guns-out-of-abusers-hands/273-efa3d83c-b150-453e-b436-3b847239a1b2 |
FLORESVILLE, Texas — Grass fires have moved through north and northwest of Floresville.
Firefighters with several departments have been battling the fires spreading on FM 2579 and FM 1303.
Approximately more than 80 acres have reportedly burned in the brush fire.
The FM 1303 blaze is near the Wilson and Bexar County line. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/grass-fires-rapidly-spread-north-northwest-of-floresville/273-613f4574-c42b-4657-b1e0-52ef7d1a46db | 2022-06-13T23:58:40 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/grass-fires-rapidly-spread-north-northwest-of-floresville/273-613f4574-c42b-4657-b1e0-52ef7d1a46db |
SAN ANTONIO — Rising prices at the pump are leading some drivers to park the car and ride the city bus.
On Monday, Triple A reported the average cost of gasoline is $4.66 in Texas. That price is down 35 cents from the national average of fuel at $5.01.
The online report shows the average price of regular fuel in San Antonio is $4.69. It's a price tag Kyle Green said is causing him to temporarily trade in his car keys for a bus pass.
"It's a little bit easier and a little bit cheaper for us to get around on the VIA," said Green.
He and his family aren't the only one taking the bus these days. Other riders said more seats are taken by passengers, especially on the early morning and evening routes. Daniel Barea said he's counted up to 20 more passengers on his trips.
"I'm seeing more [riders] than like I have seen in the last few months," said Barea.
VIA riders pay just $1.30 for single fares, which is about a fourth of the price of premium gasoline locally. According to Triple A, plus fuel will cost drivers about a quarter and some change less at $4.97.
Online, VIA says "their fares are the best deal in town." CEO Jeff Arndt said they are some of the lowest in the country. San Antonio is ranked #20 in this 2021 article.
While speaking on rising gasoline prices, Arndt said ridership historically goes up when fuel increases above $3 a gallon.
"I think we are now seeing that kind of pattern with the current fuel pricing going up as much as it is," said Arndt.
In 2017, VIA switched from diesel to compressed natural gas to fuel their busses. While the change is saving VIA more money, Arndt said natural gas prices are still going up. However, he doesn't expect that to impact the price of what riders pay for now.
Right now, VIA is focused on hiring more bus operators to increase schedule frequency to attract more riders. Currently, the transit has about 820 operators.
"We are trying to build back to the frequencies we had before pre-COVID," he said.
Bus and VIAtrans Paratransit Van Operators can receive up to $4,000. Mechanics and CDL Shop Attendants can receive up to $6,000. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/more-people-take-via-bus-fuel-prices-trend-higher-san-antonio-texas/273-04c0d23e-901b-43d1-b4d0-9865ac8c52de | 2022-06-13T23:58:46 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/more-people-take-via-bus-fuel-prices-trend-higher-san-antonio-texas/273-04c0d23e-901b-43d1-b4d0-9865ac8c52de |
SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio’s city council districts are redrawn to account for the latest U.S. Census numbers.
Due to unprecedented growth, the council’s redistricting committee is making some changes for who represents different neighborhoods around the city.
Some proposed changes met opposition from residents and one of San Antonio’s business leaders.
The San Antonio River, for example, could have been a dividing line.
Richard Perez, CEO of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, was against a proposal to move parts of downtown, including Mi Tierra and part of H-E-B’s headquarters, from District 1 to District 5.
“It didn’t seem to make a lot of sense because the historic downtown has always been one entity, at least since the 1970s,” Perez told KENS 5.
Last week, Perez asked the city’s redistricting advisory committee to keep the pieces of this district intact.
“The downtown is often referred to as the heart of San Antonio, and when you start cutting the heart up, that makes the heart may not be as powerful as it can be,” Perez said.
Although district one’s boundaries grew north, the committee accommodated Perez’s request.
Since October, assistant city attorney Iliana Castillo Daily worked alongside the 23-person committee to redraw the districts.
The biggest shift included many parts of District 8 on the northwest side being moved into District 7.
“District 1 and District 5 had to grow a lot; they had the least under the ideal population size given the 2020 census data,” Castillo Daily said.
According to city council documents, the ideal population is 143,494 people in each of the 10 council districts.
When cities redraw maps, Castillo Daily says they must be within 10 percent deviation between the biggest and smallest district. The latest map has 8.84 percent deviation.
“They have done excellent work and have come to a compromise that I believe is in the best interest of not just downtown San Antonio, but the entire city,” Perez said about the committee.
For many citizens, Castillo Daily says it won’t impact things such as police response times or school zones, among the most frequently asked questions during this process.
“What it does impact is who represents us at City Hall and how I get in contact with them, and who I get to vote for to represent me,” Castillo Daily added.
Castillo Daily is “cautiously optimistic” the city council will approve the new map in its meeting on Thursday. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/san-antonio-city-council-redistricting-committee-final-maps/273-a80501c4-53bc-4249-a636-1464507554bc | 2022-06-13T23:58:47 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/san-antonio-city-council-redistricting-committee-final-maps/273-a80501c4-53bc-4249-a636-1464507554bc |
SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio Water System said Monday it will keep Stage 2 watering conditions in place despite the Edwards Aquifer Authority declaring Stage 3 for pumping.
The Edwards Aquifer is steadily dropping as drought conditions persist in South Texas and the San Antonio area.
The EAA pumping cutbacks were triggered when the 10-day average of the J-17 well reached 640 feet. That would also trigger Stage 3 for SAWS customers, but the organization along with the San Antonio City Manager is not recommending Stage 3 watering rules.
SAWS says it can meet cutbacks without stricter watering rules.
“SAWS has worked for 30 years to prepare for these kinds of Edwards cutbacks,” said Robert R. Puente, SAWS President and CEO. “We are well prepared with diversified water resources and reasonable watering rules in place.
“We have been through this before and have not needed to go into Stage 3,” he continued. “We can manage this again together.”
SAWS said some of its other water sources will help with the cutbacks. There are nine total sources of drinking water and the Edwards Aquifer only makes up about half, according to the organization.
Watering days stay the same in Stage 2 as in Stage 1 – however, the hours during which watering is allowed are shortened. Watering with a sprinkler, irrigation system or soaker hose is allowed only between 7-11 a.m. and 7-11 p.m. on your designated day. Watering with a hand-held hose is still allowed any time on any day.
0 or 1 – Monday
2 or 3 – Tuesday
4 or 5 – Wednesday
6 or 7 – Thursday
8 or 9 – Friday
Click here for more information about Stage 2 restrictions. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/saws-to-keep-stage-2-water-restrictions-in-place-despite-severe-drought-lack-of-rain/273-806bbf39-74d9-498c-aed0-31d2b820b119 | 2022-06-13T23:58:47 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/saws-to-keep-stage-2-water-restrictions-in-place-despite-severe-drought-lack-of-rain/273-806bbf39-74d9-498c-aed0-31d2b820b119 |
CASTLE HILLS, Texas — Castle Hills police are scouring surveillance video, hoping to catch some killers.
Investigators say they recovered almost 50 spent shelling casings in the street at the crime scene Sunday morning, on the eastbound access road of Loop 410 just west of Blanco Road.
Police say 19-year-old D'yani Thomas died on the way to the hospital.
Thomas' mother said her daughter was the mother of two small children, and that she graduated from high school last week. She was out late celebrating her milestone. Her mother said her dream was to enlist in the Air Force after earning her diploma.
Kennedi Braziel, 18, made it to the hospital, but was pronounced dead just over an hour later.
A third woman in the car is said to be in critical condition.
The call for shots fired came in around 5:20 a.m. on Sunday. An officer said someone at a nearby convenience store flagged him down and told him there was a shooting in front of the Truist Bank branch on the access road.
Police who found the white Chevy Malibu at the intersection discovered a tragic scene. One of the woman was found on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head. Authorities said two others were inside the car, gravely wounded as well.
Castle Hills Police Captain Wayne Waggoner said initially, they had no leads and no motive for the attack.
Waggoner said, "We don't know if the victims and the suspects knew each other," but he said they are aggressively trying to learn more.
Because they found two different kinds of shell casings, Waggoner said he believes there were at least two assailants.
"There were a 9 mm caliber and a 7.62 caliber, which is consistent with an AK-47," Waggoner said.
Because the area is full of businesses that may have surveillance systems, Waggoner said detectives spent the day trying to find video evidence related to the attack.
"We have not identified suspects or a motive due to lack of witnesses, but we are gathering surveillance video from the area," Waggoner said. "This did not need to happen for any reason at all, and we want to solve this crime. We want to advocate for the victims and bring some people to justice."
He urged anyone with information to call the Castle Hills Police Department directly at (210) 342-2341 or reach out on their website. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/surveillance-video-suspects-killed-two-women-injured-one-north-star-mall/273-2cecc7a5-afd2-45b2-a18c-a1529723b4b7 | 2022-06-13T23:58:54 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/surveillance-video-suspects-killed-two-women-injured-one-north-star-mall/273-2cecc7a5-afd2-45b2-a18c-a1529723b4b7 |
CAMERON COUNTY, Texas — Elon Musk's SpaceX must work to lessen the environmental impact of a planned launch for its Starship/Super Heavy vehicle in Boca Chica by following more than 75 actions from the Federal Aviation Administration.
The FAA's environmental review determined the actions, which help decide if a launch license can be granted. Additionally, SpaceX's launch plans must undergo public safety and national security analyses to receive a license, which is currently pending.
Launches will also have more advanced notice to prevent long closures of State Highway 4, which crosses Boca Chica Beach and the Lower Rio Grande National Wildlife Refuge. Conversations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined that closures cannot take place on 18 select holidays and restrictions will not be allowed for more than five weekends a year.
With SpaceX's launch plans in mind, a biologist will monitor vegetation and wildlife, state or federal agencies will help rid habitats of launch debris and surrounding communities will receive notification of any engine noise or sonic booms launches may cause.
PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/spacex-faa-actions-environmental-impact-launches/269-b4a736b2-ce79-44c4-beff-36edc343b698 | 2022-06-13T23:59:00 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/spacex-faa-actions-environmental-impact-launches/269-b4a736b2-ce79-44c4-beff-36edc343b698 |
Tennessee woman dies after fall into river at Grand Canyon
A 47-year-old woman from Tennessee is dead after she was cooling off along Pipe Creek Beach and was caught by a current in the Colorado River on Saturday, officials with Grand Canyon National Park said.
The Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of a passenger on a commercial river trip who had fallen into the Colorado River at about 2 p.m.
Commercial guides were able to reach the woman by boat and pull her from the river to begin CPR.
Resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful and the woman was pronounced dead by Park Rangers.
The woman was identified as 47-year-old Sheetal Patel, who had hiked into the canyon to begin a multi-day boating trip from Phantom Ranch, according to officials at Grand Canyon National Park.
In coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner, the National Park Service is investigating the incident.
"All visitors to Grand Canyon should ensure they are drinking plenty of fluids, resting in shade during the heat of the day, watching for signs of distress in travelling companions, and dressing appropriately for the weather, which includes light-colored and loose-fitting clothing," said Grand Canyon National Park in a statement.
Here are the National Park Service's 10 Summer hiking essentials:
- Water - plain and some with electrolyte replacement
- Food - especially salty foods. Eat twice as much as normal.
- First Aid Kit - bandaids, ace wrap, antiseptic, moleskin, etc.
- Map - while many trails are well-marked, maps are helpful tools.
- Pack - to carry the essentials.
- Flashlight/Spare Batteries - allows you to hike out during the cool of the evening.
- Spray Bottle - fill the water for your own personal air conditioning system.
- Hat/Sunscreen - to keep the sun off you and protect your skin.
- Whistle and/or Signal Mirror - for emergency use.
- Waterproof Clothing - poncho or jacket; especially useful during monsoon season (mid-July to early September).
Reach breaking news reporter Haleigh Kochanski at hkochanski@arizonarepublic.com or on Twitter @HaleighKochans.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-breaking/2022/06/13/sheetal-patel-dies-grand-canyon-national-park/7616000001/ | 2022-06-14T00:02:18 | 0 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-breaking/2022/06/13/sheetal-patel-dies-grand-canyon-national-park/7616000001/ |
Man arrested in Pipeline Fire said he was burning toilet paper, court documents say
A 57-year-old man arrested Sunday in connection to the Pipeline Fire allegedly admitted he burned toilet paper and put it under a rock in the area the wildfire was reported burning at the Coconino National Forest, according to court documents.
The Pipeline Fire burning six miles north of Flagstaff was reported Sunday morning and was about 5,000 acres as of noon on Monday. It was described burning brush and trees in the area of NFSR 9002 and NFS trail 433.
Court documents state a deputy from the Coconino County Sheriff's Office stopped Matthew Riser who was seen driving "rapidly" away from the wildfire in a white pickup truck. Riser told the deputy he was camping in the area and saw the fire.
He said he burned the toilet paper he had used at noon Saturday— the day before the wildfire was reported— but didn't think it would "smolder all night," according to court documents. He also said he hadn't seen the "no campfires" signs.
"Riser said he saw a '200 ft. by 200 ft. fire, everything was on fire including pine trees,'" court documents state.
'Ready, Set, Go': Here's what to know when natural disasters loom in Arizona
When officials from the U.S. Forest Service spoke with Riser, he admitted he had ignited the toilet paper and placed it under a rock Saturday, and that he tried to put out the fire with his sleeping bag. His camp was 80 yards from where the fire started, according to court documents.
Officials searched the pickup truck with Riser's consent and found a white lighter similar the one he described using to burn his toilet paper. Court documents state he also showed them where he had burned his toilet paper near his camp.
Riser said he had been camping there for two days on NFSR 9002 and saw the "no campfire" sign when he drove out, according to court documents. Officials said information on fire restrictions can be found on roads, ranger stations, local news media and the U.S. Forest Service website.
Rise was booked into the Coconino County Sheriff’s Detention Facility for suspicion of violating the U.S. Forest Service order of stage 2 fire restrictions at the Coconino National Forest, documents show.
Wildfire map: Track where fires are burning in Arizona in 2022
Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal and briquettes is prohibited in the forest per the order. Smoking isn't allowed except in a vehicle, inside a building or within a developed recreation site. Operating any torch with an open flame is also prohibited.
The order was issued on May 26th and will be in effect until August 31 or until it is rescinded.
A violation of it is punishable as a class B misdemeanor by a fine of $5,000 or less for a person or $10,000 for an organization, or with not more than six months of prison time. According to the order it could also be punishable with both the imprisonment and the fine.
Court documents show Riser was arrested in suspicion of building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal and briquettes; occupying or using a residence on forest service lands and possessing a controlled substance.
His initial appearance at a Flagstaff Courthouse was scheduled for Monday at 10 a.m. The Arizona Daily Sun reported his defense attorney said there was "zero evidence" Riser was living in the forest or that he responsible for the fire as it is a heavily trafficked area.
The attorney said Riser was traveling in a camper after staying with a friend in Benson, the Arizona Daily Sun wrote. He also said Riser is a retired welder and was honorably discharged from the military.
Reach breaking news reporter Angela Cordoba Perez at Angela.CordobaPerez@Gannett.com or on Twitter @AngelaCordobaP.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-wildfires/2022/06/13/court-documents-man-arrested-connection-pipeline-fire-suspected-burning-toilet-paper/7614656001/ | 2022-06-14T00:02:24 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-wildfires/2022/06/13/court-documents-man-arrested-connection-pipeline-fire-suspected-burning-toilet-paper/7614656001/ |
Police say a Red Robin employee was found dead inside the restaurant near Talking Stick Resort
Police said the person who was found dead Sunday inside a Red Robin at Talking Stick Resort near Scottsdale was a restaurant employee who was killed during what police believe was a robbery.
Salt River police officers responded to the location at Talking Stick Way and Pima Road after another employee reported a broken door, according to a press release from police.
Officers said they called out to see if there was anyone inside the restaurant and decided to go in when no one responded. According to police, they found a dead person inside.
Salt River detectives are asking anyone with information and people who were in the area of the Scottsdale Pavilions on Sunday between 6 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. to please call the department at 480-850-9230.
Police offered no additional details.
Reporter Angela Cordoba Perez contributed to this article.
Reach breaking news reporter Laura Daniella Sepulveda at lsepulveda@lavozarizona.com or on Twitter @lauradNews.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/scottsdale-breaking/2022/06/13/red-robin-employee-found-dead-talking-stick-scottsdale-police-say/7617308001/ | 2022-06-14T00:02:30 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/scottsdale-breaking/2022/06/13/red-robin-employee-found-dead-talking-stick-scottsdale-police-say/7617308001/ |
Housing and anti-poverty advocates urged an Assembly committee Monday to work to close the $300,000 racial wealth gap between New Jersey's white and Black families.
That includes passing a bill to study possible reparations, said one of the authors of "Making the Two New Jerseys One: Closing the $300,000 Racial Wealth Gap in the Garden State," released by The New Jersey Institute for Social Justice in March.
"Reparations must be part of any conversation of closing the racial wealth gap," said the institute's Law and Public Policy Director Andrea McChristian at a special meeting of the Assembly Community Development and Affairs committee.
"It wasn't created overnight. It stems from the founding of the colony when English settlers were given 150 acres plus 150 acres for every slave they brought," McChristian said.
And it's been compounded by restrictive covenants, redlining and predatory lending that kept Blacks in less desirable neighborhoods and often manipulated Black families into financial disaster, she said.
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Nationally the family wealth gap between white and Black families is $160,000, McChristian said.
"New Jersey is one of the most prosperous states yet racial and ethnic inequities still are very much prevalent," said committee Chair Shavonda Sumter.
"The pandemic made clear ... when America catches a cold, minority communities get pneumonia," Sumter said.
"Three hundred thousand dollars. I'll say it again — $300,000 — imagine what we could all do with that. Buy a new home, send our kids to college debt free, pay off student loans," McChristian said. "That's out of reach of the state's Black communities."
In New Jersey, the median white family net worth is $322,500, she said, compared to just $17,500 for Black family net worth.
About one-third of Black families have no wealth or more debt than assets, McChristian said, compared to one-ninth of white families.
"The gap in homeownership is a large driver (of the wealth gap) since home ownership is the primary way most families build wealth," McChristian said.
While 76% of white families own their own homes, just 38% of Black families do, she said. And white families have far more equity in those homes meaning much more ability to extract wealth from them.
Blacks and Latinos are also much less likely to have retirement accounts and stocks, McChristian said.
Only about 10% of Blacks inherit from their parents, compared to 25% of whites.
She urged lawmakers to pass three bills now in the Legislature:
• A1579, which would appropriate $70 million to create a baby bond program giving babies born to low-income families in the state $2,000 in an account only to be used for education, down payment on a home, or other specific approved uses
• A1519, which would revoke or suspend licenses and/or fine anyone found to have engaged in a discriminatory appraisal of a residential property on the basis of the property buyer or property seller’s race, creed, color, or national origin.
• A938, which would set up the “New Jersey Reparations Task Force” to study and develop reparations proposals for African-Americans in the state.
The California Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans was created by Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2020, and recently released its report on actions the state can take to make amends for a long history of racial abuses.
The New Jersey Institute for Social Justice report found that, while 17% of Black New Jerseyans have household incomes under the official poverty threshold (about $22,000 for a family of three), only 6% of white New Jerseyans do.
The median income of white households in the state is $91,764, which is more than 60% higher than the median income of Black households at $56,301.
"We call on the state to make Black lives matter in New Jersey," McChristian said, with these and other investments. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/reparations-baby-bonds-called-for-to-close-black-wealth-gap-in-nj/article_282727ce-eb4f-11ec-9e3a-538b1b843215.html | 2022-06-14T00:03:39 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/reparations-baby-bonds-called-for-to-close-black-wealth-gap-in-nj/article_282727ce-eb4f-11ec-9e3a-538b1b843215.html |
MSU Texas graduate student receives prestigious internship
Leslie Cooke, an MSU Texas graduate student, was chosen for a prized internship with the NIH in biomedical research.
Summer internships at the National Institutes of Health, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, provide an opportunity for students to spend a summer working side-by-side with some of the leading scientists in the world in an environment devoted exclusively to biomedical research.
The internships attract applicants from universities across the country.
Cook, a Midwestern State University computer science graduate student, was chosen for one of those internships with the NIH in biomedical research.
She will intern with the Biomedical Informatics section of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, to help analyze over 20 years of patient medical data.
As a nontraditional student who returned to college 12 years after graduating from high school and a single mother, Cook hopes her accomplishments will inspire other women, mothers, and young people to never stop learning, growing and pursuing their goals.
Cook said Assistant Professor of Physics Preet Sharma played an integral role in her academic progress and achievements.
"His mentorship has opened the door to so many opportunities that I know increased my chances of attaining this internship,” Cook said.
She is in the Non-Linear Science Research Group, which focuses on theoretical and computational biophysical phenomenon.
Sharma said hundreds of students apply for the internships.
“These programs are highly competitive. Leslie is talented and has worked hard for this opportunity,” he said.
Individual scientists select their own summer interns and provide their funding. Internships generally cover a minimum of eight weeks.
Cook’s internship will be virtual rather than in-person. But it will still be a full-time, eight-week intensive research experience with opportunities for scholarly and professional development.
Biomedical informatics is the science of information technology in the realm of health care and medicine.
A biomedical data scientist evaluates complex data in order to develop solutions to real-world health care problems, achieve better health outcomes, and overall smarter health care.
As a researcher for the NIH-BIS, Cook will be studying new methods for processing, managing, and visualizing biomedical data and the development of an intelligent clinical support system within the Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Drug Abuse clinical and research programs.
Biomedical research includes everything from behavioral and social sciences, through biology and chemistry, to physics, mathematical modeling, computational biology and biostatistics.
Earlier this year, Cook presented at the third annual Biophysics and Quantitative Biology Conference and Workshop at MSU Texas.
That presentation was published in Reports and Advances of Physical Sciences.
In San Francisco, she presented a poster at the 66th Biophysical Society Annual Meeting that was published in Biophysical Journal.
She also has a paper in the final stages of the reviewing process submitted to Heliyon, part of the Cell Press journals.
In June, Cook will travel to Tahoe, California, to present a poster at the Molecular Biophysics of Membranes conference that will be published in the Biophysical Journal.
“We are already starting another research paper that will expand on our previous one to incorporate more complexity and finite detail to our biophysical model,” Cook said.
She is also a student researcher with Assistant Professor of Biochemistry Fu-Cheng Liang, studying the protein alpha-synuclein. It causes neurodegenerative symptoms in Parkinson’s disease patients.
She is a member of the MSU Texas programming club and involved in research with the Computer Science Department.
“It truly means the world to me that my passion for research and academia with the support of my research adviser is being recognized,” Cook said.
Sharma’s influence has given her so much confidence to further herself in academia.
"I do not believe I would be where I am right now without him. Who knows, maybe I’ll even go for a Ph.D. to be a professor at MSU Texas one day too," Cook said. | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/msu-graduate-student-leslie-cook-receives-prestigious-internship/7569268001/ | 2022-06-14T00:11:12 | 0 | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/msu-graduate-student-leslie-cook-receives-prestigious-internship/7569268001/ |
One injured, another jailed in Sunday morning wreck
An early Sunday morning pin-in accident sent one to the hospital and another to jail on a DWI charge.
According to police, round 2:30 a.m., emergency responders and police were sent to the 2500 block of Kemp Boulevard for a single-vehicle pin-in accident.
They found a Dodge Challenger that had struck a tree head-on.
Witnesses said they saw the vehicle hit the tree and a woman emerge from the driver’s seat.
The passenger was transported by AMR ambulance to the hospital with unknown and non-life-threatening injuries.
When police asked the driver for her license, she handed them a $10 bill. When asked again for her driver’s license, she gave them her friend’s license and was adamant it was hers.
While talking to the police, they noticed the driver’s balance was extremely unsteady, her speech was slurred, and the odor of alcohol was emitting from her breath.
When asked where she was coming from, she said West End — a bar that serves alcohol.
She told the officers she had “two shots of Patron" — a brand of Tequila. She was given a Field Sobriety Test and failed.
She was transported to the hospital for a blood draw and medical clearance. She is charged with DWI.
More:Motorcyclist killed in Saturday crash
According to a previous Times Record News report, on June 4, emergency medics and police responded to the same area of Kemp for a deadly motorcycle accident. | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/one-injured-another-jailed-sunday-morning-wreck/7603645001/ | 2022-06-14T00:11:18 | 1 | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/one-injured-another-jailed-sunday-morning-wreck/7603645001/ |
Cat sculpture by MSU professor featured in art project
A playful metal sculpture of a cat by Professor Suguru Hiraide of MSU Texas was chosen with seven other artists to be featured in True North, a sculpture project in Houston’s Heights neighborhood.
Hiraide’s “Maneki Cat Altar” is a towering aluminum sculpture that turns with the wind while the cat’s solar-powered paw beckons visitors for a closer look.
His inspiration was the “maneki neko” — the beckoning cat of Japanese folklore — as well as a cat which frequently visits his house.
More:MSU Texas names Redwine Scholarship recipients
The maneki cat holds currency in its other paw, symbolizing good fortune and life successes.
Hiraide combined the East and West in his title, using the Japanese word for ‘beckoning’ with the English word for ‘cat.’
Most maneki cats wave with palms facing forward.
Hiraide westernized his piece by turning the palm inwards the way Americans wave their hands to beckon — another blending of the East and West.
Since 2014, True North has selected eight outdoor sculptures and exhibited them alongside the trails of Heights Boulevard in Houston.
“It’s a great honor and opportunity to show my work at the beautiful historic esplanade,” Hiraide said.
True North’s mission is to advance the accessibility, understanding, and enjoyment of contemporary art for the community and public featuring works by prominent and emerging Texas artists.
Named for the compass bearing of Heights Boulevard in Houston, True North’s chosen pieces are installed on designated sites along the winding trails of the boulevard’s forested esplanade and remain in place from March to December.
True North sculptures are seen by hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors to the Houston Heights.
The sculpture project is popular on social media, with its own website and Facebook and Instagram pages.
The project is also conducted in partnership with the city of Houston Parks and Recreation and Public Works Departments, the Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and the Houston Arts Alliance.
Hiraide teaches sculpture and metals at MSU Texas.
More:MSU student says university was springboard toward to med school
In 2018, he was the first recipient of the Jane Spears Carnes Faculty Fellowship in Creative Endeavors which gave him a semester off to concentrate on research and artistic projects.
His work has been displayed nationally and internationally.
That includes solo exhibitions in Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles and Tokyo and international group shows in Japan at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Fukuoka Asian Museum in Fukuoka and Kanagawa Prefectural Gallery in Yokohama. | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/sculpture-hiraide-chosen-houston-art-project/7569845001/ | 2022-06-14T00:11:24 | 0 | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/sculpture-hiraide-chosen-houston-art-project/7569845001/ |
WALDOBORO, Maine — When Chloe Maxmin was running for the Maine House of Representatives in 2018, she would come home after a long day of campaigning (she knocked on the doors of about 7,000 constituents that year) and write, with a pen and paper, thank you notes to the people in her district she’d talked with that day.
She called them “clincher cards,” and by the date of the primary, she’d written so many postcards—fifty or more a day—that her right hand had blisters.
The clincher cards sure didn’t hurt. Maxmin, a Democrat from Nobleboro, won a seat in the Maine House in 2018 and the Maine Senate in 2020, when she upset the top-ranking Republican in that chamber and became the youngest female state senator in Maine history.
She tells the story of her political rise in her new book, “Dirt Road Revival: How to Rebuild Rural Politics and Why Our Future Depends On It,” co-written with Canyon Woodward, her campaign manager.
The book, its authors write, is “a tough-love letter to the Democratic Party,” a work “rooted in our firsthand experiences campaigning in rural red America, the same districts that Democrats have abandoned and that contributed to Donald Trump’s victory.”
Maxmin says one of the keys to her success was to find common ground with people who might not agree with her on issues. Her hope is that Democrats in other rural districts across the country will learn from her experience and connect with voters in a way they’ve failed to do in recent decades.
“To focus on party at this moment in history is to zero in on what divides us,” she and Woodward write. “When we focus on values, we open up space to connect over what we have in common.”
Many people, of course, will disagree with Maxmin on all kinds of issues. But here’s something those same critics might find refreshing: In both of her campaigns, Maxmin refused to engage in negative campaigning.
“[People] associate politics with something that’s negative and divisive, and that turns people away,” she told me. “I don’t want that in my life. I don’t want to have a conversation like that. So why would I inflict that on other people?” | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/chloe-maxmin-isnt-your-typical-politician-she-thinks-other-democrats-could-learn-from-her-campaign-book-community-building/97-3fa14348-020e-453b-973d-95b1e170debc | 2022-06-14T00:12:54 | 1 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/chloe-maxmin-isnt-your-typical-politician-she-thinks-other-democrats-could-learn-from-her-campaign-book-community-building/97-3fa14348-020e-453b-973d-95b1e170debc |
PORTLAND, Maine — It is a busy time of year, and when that’s the case, dinner can easily become an exercise in finding something quick and easy. That’s not always the healthiest option, but it doesn’t need to be an unhealthy meal.
Kerry Altiero from Café Miranda in Rockland joins us to show us to make a whole new meal out of the leftovers in your fridge.
For this meal, Kerry uses leftover chicken, pasta, and tomato, and adds in some onion, greens, garlic, and other spices you may have at home.
Follow his recipe or use what leftovers you have to make your own dish. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/recipe-chicken-pasta-leftovers-dinner/97-2057a536-e8f4-4816-86a3-3d4d22fae30f | 2022-06-14T00:12:55 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/recipe-chicken-pasta-leftovers-dinner/97-2057a536-e8f4-4816-86a3-3d4d22fae30f |
PORTLAND, Maine — A new event happening in Portland to help fight childhood cancer is just one week away.
On Monday, June 20, the Live + Work in Maine Open is kicking off its golf tournament with the "Anthem Swing into Summer 5K Run/Walk" made possible by founding partner Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.
The event will start at 7 p.m. at Fort Allen Park and will circle the Eastern Promenade to end at Ocean Gateway. Anyone is welcome to participate — and all funds raised will go to the Maine Children's Cancer Program.
"We’re expecting upwards of 500 runners/walkers next Monday," Brian Corcoran, CEO of Shamrock Sports & Entertainment and executive director of the Live + Work in Maine Open, said.
That number is welcomed news to Aaron Weiss D.O., the medical director of the MCCP. He said a lot of the MCCP's programs are funded by philanthropy. It means without the community's support, the resources that MCCP provides children and teenagers in Maine — like nurses and physicians, research staff, and social workers for emotional support — wouldn't be possible.
"Without this, we would really struggle — especially in this climate — to be able to do what we need to do for the children we take care of," Weiss said.
Weiss said the MCCP sees about 40 to 50 new patients every year who have oncology diagnoses. The program also provides treatments for youth with blood disorders. One of the main goals of the MCCP is to help young people stay in place during medical treatments, so they can try to live life as regularly as possible.
"We want the children who are going through their treatment to be able to feel like children," Weiss said. "We want them to feel like everyone else, so for them to be able to attend school is critically important. Mentally, it helps them to get through what they need to get through."
The Cochrane family in Kennebunk can attest to that message. Bobby and Danielle Cochrane's eldest son, Griffin, is now eight years old. Five years ago on June 25, 2017, he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
"It was devastating," Danielle Cochrane said. "You go from being day-to-day routine and thinking about what’s for dinner and kind of managing the house — and then having the world kind of flipped upside down and crushed."
Now, Bobby Cochrane says Griffin is "healthy and happy" and will enter third grade in the fall. He plays hockey, lacrosse, and soccer — something the Cochrane's weren't sure they would ever see.
"Every accomplishment he has — we just never knew that it would happen," Danielle Cochrane said.
The Cochrane's said the MCCP's support was invaluable since it allowed them to stay put in Maine, instead of having to move elsewhere to get Griffin treatment. He has been treatment-free since October of 2020 — but their gratitude is still strong.
"They really treat the whole family — from emotional support and outreach to connecting parents with other parents who’ve gone through the same thing," Bobby Cochrane said.
"They’re like family to us and have really been a shoulder to cry on," Danielle Cochrane said.
For those involved with the Live + Work in Maine Open, the new 5K is an exciting prospect. America's senior vice president and general manager of Fleet, Brian Fournier, said WEX has a long history of working with the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital. He said the company has almost 50 people either affiliated with or volunteering for the event next week.
"It has been a fantastic experience for a great benefit," Fournier said about the open as a whole.
Katie Shorey is the director of engagement for Live + Work in Maine, the open's naming partner. Her team's mission is to encourage more young people to move to Maine — whether they're returning to the state or are brand-new.
Shorey said the 5K will present an opportunity for people to take a look at Portland and learn about great resources in our state, like quality pediatric cancer care.
"If people are moving here, it’s just really important for them to know that this kind of resource exists for families that might need it, so anything that we can do to bring awareness to it [is] important."
You can register for the 5K here. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/as-seen-on-tv/live-and-work-in-maine-open-anthem-swing-into-summer-5k-run-walk-portland-to-benefit-maine-childrens-cancer-program-health-community/97-dcccc27b-fee1-45b5-b955-d6623dc42618 | 2022-06-14T00:12:55 | 1 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/as-seen-on-tv/live-and-work-in-maine-open-anthem-swing-into-summer-5k-run-walk-portland-to-benefit-maine-childrens-cancer-program-health-community/97-dcccc27b-fee1-45b5-b955-d6623dc42618 |
MAINE, USA — There were so many questions.
Why don’t I feel comfortable in my body?
Why do I feel so alone?
And perhaps the most heartbreaking: Will I ever be loved?
As a child growing up in Maine, Aiden Campbell knew something wasn’t right.
Everything about his body felt mismatched and uncomfortable. Assigned female at birth, he gravitated toward boys’ clothing and male role models. At age 5, he didn’t understand why he was placed with girls when his school separated the class by gender.
In central Maine, where Aiden lived, there weren’t many openly gay students in Augusta or the surrounding rural towns.
“I was a freshman in high school before I even met anyone who identified as a lesbian,” Aiden recalled recently. “So that was like a whole new world for me; that kind of felt more right than just being like a straight cisgender woman.”
When he came out as a lesbian in 2010 at Cony High in Augusta, he found little acceptance. Aiden got pushed into lockers. Students called him names. During practice for field hockey or lacrosse, his backpack would sometimes disappear and get tossed in trash cans around campus.
At lunch he ate with a guidance counselor or teacher in their office or classroom to separate himself from other students. He seldom talked about his feelings or the harassment.
“I was embarrassed by it and didn’t really know how to talk about it,” Aiden said. “I think I was afraid for a long time that if I said too much, it would get worse.”
His mother worked with the school to get Aiden counseling, but by his junior year, Aiden had become deeply depressed and isolated. He felt betrayed and distraught over his maturing female body.
“I didn’t fit in,” he said, “and there was nobody like me at school.”
On a February afternoon, he walked to a dam near his home. He thought about the hate he felt from other students. Believing he would never be loved or accepted, he jumped off the ledge into the icy waters.
“But as soon as I jumped,” Aiden said, “it was just a bad feeling of instant regret.”
Unhurt in shallow waters, Aiden made his way to shore. A few days passed before he told the school’s career counselor about his suicide attempt.
“I was really afraid to tell her because I wasn’t sure what would happen … I was just trying to find help and I didn’t know how to ask for it.”
Aiden’s mother, longtime school board member Sue Campbell, received a phone call from the assistant principal on that winter day. She told Campbell that Mary, as Aiden was called at the time, had tried to kill herself.
“At that moment,” Campbell remembered, “my life stopped.”
Campbell had two children, her daughter and an older son. She knew Mary was taking medication to ease her depression, but Campbell was stunned that she hadn’t realized the depth of the suffering.
“Why didn’t you come to me?” Campbell asked.
“I was afraid I’d disappoint you,” her daughter explained.
Mary also had other feelings to share.
“I don’t even know if I want to tell you,” she said. “I think I should have always been a boy.”
At the time, Mary had never heard the word transgender or knew that she could receive treatment. Campbell reassured her daughter that she would support her transition, and began searching for resources and medical professionals. Like most Maine schools in 2012, Cony High had little to offer transgender students.
“I spent that whole summer reading every book I could possibly get my hands on,” Campbell recalled. “And then I shared everything with the school social worker, who was reading the books as fast as I was.”
Unable to find a Maine doctor who specialized in gender-affirming treatment, Campbell called medical providers in Boston and Providence, R.I., the closest places that offered care for transgender youth.
“When I started taking hormones, we had to go all the way to Rhode Island because (it had) the only doctor that would provide them for me,” Aiden said.
While Aiden wanted to “go a million miles an hour” to affirm his gender, his mother tried to process the transition.
“Oh my god,” she thought. “What does this mean?”
The daughter who loved to play the guitar, draw and write in her journal, the child Campbell thought would one day birth her own babies, would soon be a son.
“You have hopes and dreams of what your child will be like, and when that gets tossed on its head it can cause all kinds of emotions,” Campbell said.
But the moments of uncertainty dissipated when Campbell saw the changes. The day Mary had her first testosterone shot, Campbell and her daughter stopped for lunch in Rhode Island. Campbell watched as Mary got up to go to the restroom.
“She walked differently across that restaurant,” Campbell said. “She was more sure of herself.”
As Mary’s physical appearance changed with the testosterone doses, her self-esteem blossomed.
“I began to see that yes, this thing is right for us to be doing,” Campbell said. “I had a child who was depressed and suicidal change into a child who was confident, happy and able to thrive.”
The summer before her senior year, Mary chose to be called Aiden, a name he later learned meant “little fire,” which suited his personality. Though Aiden was quiet and reserved, when he was passionate about something, his mother explained, there was no holding him back.
While her daughter transitioned and went through male puberty, Campbell agonized about her child’s future. If students bullied Aiden as a lesbian, how would they treat him when he was the only transgender student in the school? How would Aiden handle the harassment and discrimination that many trans people faced?
And most of all, Campbell worried, “Is anybody going to love my kid?”
Aiden also feared his classmates’ reaction. He returned to school with short hair, a deeper voice and a more muscular body. To his surprise, no one taunted him, and some of the kids who had bullied him apologized.
“I don’t know if it was like a really intense thing, and they just really had no idea of what I was going through and felt bad, but it was completely different than what I was expecting.”
After graduating in 2014, Aiden attended the University of Southern Maine to pursue a degree in social work, so he could help other young people who struggled with adversity. While at college, he would continue administering his own weekly testosterone shots that induced his masculine traits and suppressed his feminine ones.
Though he had a fresh start, Aiden worried about roommates and future girlfriends. How and when would he share his story?
Rather than room with a stranger who may be uncomfortable with a trans roommate, Aiden opted for a single residence. A couple weeks into his freshman year, his parents visited to celebrate his birthday. After they left, he brought his leftover cake to the lobby to share.
One of the students who accepted the cake was a blonde-haired girl from California named Casey Ross. Aiden liked her adventurous spirit and the way she made everyone around her feel comfortable. Unsure of how to tell her he was trans, Aiden called his mom.
“I met this girl and I really like her,” Aiden explained. “What do I do?”
“You need to talk to her,” his mother said. “You can’t start going out with her without being honest.”
Aiden worked up the courage to tell Casey he was transgender.
“I know, dummy,” Casey said and kissed him. She had learned about Aiden’s identity on Facebook and Instagram accounts where he was open about his gender.
By their sophomore year, Aiden knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with the girl who made him happier than he had ever dreamed possible. Casey loved the young man who was kind and shared her passion for nature and outdoor adventures.
But she wasn’t ready to get married.
“Let’s just wait until I’m 24 and then we’ll see where we’re at,” Casey told him.
Years later, after he got his undergraduate degree, master’s in social work and served as a fraternity president — a first for a transgender male in Maine and the second to do so in the nation — Aiden and Casey are still together.
They bought a small gambrel in southern Maine in 2019, and adopted two dogs and a cat. The couple both found jobs where they could bolster the lives of young people. Aiden began working for OUT Maine, helping schools get resources and training for LBGTQ students. Because of his struggle to find help in high school, Aiden’s mother also started working at the Rockland-based organization, overseeing OUT Maine’s programs and educational outreach.
Casey, who earned a degree in recreation and leisure studies, landed a job with the Portland-based nonprofit Rippleffect, where she manages outdoor educational adventures for summer camps and after-school programs.
On a warm July afternoon in 2020 — Casey’s 24th birthday — she returned home to a note on the door that instructed her: “Come to the backyard.”
Casey opened the gate to find tiny lights with pink flowers strung along the wooden fence. A couple dozen photos hung from the light string showing Aiden and Casey smiling on mountain summits, kayaking in Maine lakes and posing in front of lighthouses. A bucket of champagne and a vase filled with flowers rested on a blanket. Aiden stood waiting with a grin and a small green box.
He got down on one knee and asked the words he had waited six years to say: “Will you marry me?”
Casey nodded as tears rolled down her cheeks. “Yes,” she told him.
This fall, the couple will marry on a Portland rooftop bar and celebrate with guests in the establishment’s lower-level bowling alley.
“Aiden’s not the biggest dancer,” Casey said. “So along with a band and dancing, we’re gonna have 12 lanes of bowling at our reception.”
Jordan Carpenter, one of the couple’s close friends, will serve as the maid of honor. Aiden and Casey’s relationship, she said, is inspiring.
“They are so incredibly perfect for each other and so in love,” said Carpenter.
Their wedding, she added, will be a “magical, beautiful celebration, and I cannot wait to be a part of it.”
Casey is counting the days until she can wear her champagne and ivory-colored wedding dress, and marry the man who makes her laugh and brings her joy each day.
After spending eight years together, Casey cannot imagine a future without Aiden. Her voice cracked and she wiped away tears as she talked about Aiden’s suicide attempt.
“I am so thankful that his mom was willing to save her child with whatever means it took,” she said. “And that Aiden was given the help he needed to grow into the person that he was supposed to be.”
The memories of that frigid February day are still vivid in Aiden’s mind. He knows how hopeless a young person can feel when believing they will never be loved or given the chance to transform into their true self.
It is for those kids that Aiden tells his story; it is why he works at OUT Maine as a mental health coordinator, helping schools set up Gay Straight Alliances and curriculum materials that are inclusive.
“When I transitioned, there were no role models, no resources and no one talked about being transgender,” he said. “I want people to know there is support out there for them.”
On an April morning, sunlight streamed into the sunporch of Casey and Aiden’s home. The couple sat on a futon with their dogs Winne and Olive snuggled next to them. They sipped coffee and talked about buying a bigger home when they start a family.
Though Aiden will continue his testosterone treatment for the rest of his life, he decided against the expensive and invasive gender-affirming or sex-reassignment surgery. To conceive children, the couple said they will either use a sperm donor or in-vitro fertilization. Adoption is also a possibility.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted, a family and children of my own,” Aiden said. “I want to be a good dad and role model for my kids.”
It is this scene, an ordinary Saturday morning talking about his future family, that Aiden wants younger trans people to see. It is a vision that he wishes his younger self could have imagined when he stood on a dam ledge desperate and out of hope.
“For a long time, I didn’t know if anyone would really love me the way that Casey does,” he said. “But she proved me wrong. She showed me that there are people out there who really want you to be a part of their family and their life.”
This story was originally published by The Maine Monitor. The Maine Monitor is a local journalism product published by The Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, a nonpartisan and nonprofit civic news organization. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/one-transgender-mans-journey-to-find-hope-and-happiness-maine/97-247b80cc-0f03-4297-bb66-0e47b9dd8357 | 2022-06-14T00:12:56 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/one-transgender-mans-journey-to-find-hope-and-happiness-maine/97-247b80cc-0f03-4297-bb66-0e47b9dd8357 |
LINCOLN, Maine — State Rep. Jeffery A. Gifford, a retired paper mill worker who served five terms in the Maine Legislature, has died at age 75.
Gifford, R-Lincoln, served four terms from 2006 to 2014 and was elected to another term in 2020. He was unopposed on the Republican ballot for the primary election on Tuesday.
He died Sunday evening after a bout with cancer, a party spokesperson said.
House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, D-Biddeford, said Gifford was dedicated to his family and community, and will be missed.
“Jeff Gifford was the very definition of a devoted public servant. Loving, committed, faithful, humble, and gentle in his approach. His presence was a gift that lifted the spirits of those around him," added House Minority Leader Kathleen Dillingham, R-Oxford.
Gifford's was the fourth death of a state lawmaker this calendar year.
Reps. Donna Doore, D-Augusta, and John Tuttle Jr., D-Sanford, died four days apart in late January, and Rep. Theodore “Ted” Kryzak Jr., R-Acton, died in March. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/rep-gifford-becomes-4th-sitting-legislator-to-die-in-2022-maine-politics-obituary/97-ca3e5098-cce4-4b24-8b53-a1a717b451db | 2022-06-14T00:13:13 | 1 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/rep-gifford-becomes-4th-sitting-legislator-to-die-in-2022-maine-politics-obituary/97-ca3e5098-cce4-4b24-8b53-a1a717b451db |
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — South Portland Schools were recognized as the state's "Outstanding Music Program" by the Dale F. Huff Foundation.
The award honors a "thriving K-12 music and performing arts program in the state of Maine." Huff was a professional trumpet player from Guilford, Maine, who later earned his bachelor's degree from the New England Conservatory in Bangor. He later taught music in Fort Fairfield, and Millinocket.
"His system-wide, K-12 approach to music and performance education was the foundation of what became one of the strongest and most envied school music programs in the State of Maine. In the last decade of his work in Millinocket, he convinced the administration that the music department deserved to be valued at the same level as the other academic departments in the system (English, Math, Athletics, etc.)," wrote Scotty Huff, Dale's son.
South Portland received the award for 2022.
"The results are apparent. South Portland is a shining example of what dad believed in," Scotty wrote to district staff in a congratulatory e-mail.
"Teaching is the longest deferred investment you're ever going to make," said Mahoney Middle School music teacher Sandra Barry. "We lay the groundwork here, but the thing is music can be entered at any point, and it should be."
Under Barry, students in each grade have picked up new instruments this school year; for some, they are learning their second instrument.
"When I go to band, it's a time when I can relax and really focus on something that I love. I love school, but band is one of the more exciting parts of my day," said Julia Tompkins, a Mahoney eighth grader who plays clarinet and tenor saxophone.
Tompkins, and classmate Audrey LeBleu, said music class requires them to work cooperatively with others, both verbally and non-verbally. It also teaches mental toughness and perseverance.
"You practice for a long time with a bunch of people and you all have to perform well for it to sound really good, and when you have a really good performance it feels like you're proud of everybody and yourself," LeBleu said. "It feels like all the times you messed up don't really exist."
Barry said those different skills are why music is a critical part of a child's education, echoing Huff's beliefs.
"We're not asking for music to be 'more than,' but 'as,' and that takes people some time to be okay with," Barry said.
Barry has been working in music education for 35 years: 10 at Brunswick Junior High and 25 in South Portland. She, and her fellow music teachers, have noticed music no longer being a staple of Maine school educations.
"We're humans. We create. We need to communicate with each other, and that's the arts right there: communicating and creating together," Barry said. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/south-portland-school-district-wins-outstanding-music-program-award-from-maine-musician-dale-huff-trumpet/97-404affe2-5e59-4ef3-a66d-d7e587b84e74 | 2022-06-14T00:13:20 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/south-portland-school-district-wins-outstanding-music-program-award-from-maine-musician-dale-huff-trumpet/97-404affe2-5e59-4ef3-a66d-d7e587b84e74 |
TUPELO • It took just five short years for Katina Davis Holland to turn a vision and faint semblance of a mission into a full-fledged nonprofit.
On Monday, Tupelo-based nonprofit Wear It Well hosted its five-year celebration block party at its Tupelo location at The Charles & Ruth Morris Home for Wear It Well, followed by a fundraiser at D’Cracked Egg in Tupelo.
Holland, the organization’s founder and director, launched Wear It Well in 2017 because she felt God charged her to serve the people. She started with the Extreme Makeover Program, which provides makeovers for people with cancer or a life-altering event or illness.
“I just thought it was going to be something simple, maybe once a month,” Holland said. “I never would have imagined in five years that it would have grown to this magnitude.”
Since its creation, Holland’s organization has grown to include programs focused on anti-bullying, health, education, empowerment and workplace readiness. The organization also provides people with basic needs like clothing and toiletries.
Partnerships have been part of Wear It Well’s success. The makeovers required a team of skilled individuals. Over the years, the nonprofit has built a steady rotation of 50 volunteers.
Leslie Freeman of Tupelo has volunteered with Wear It Well since the beginning. Before then, Freeman made breast cancer care packages on her own. When she saw Holland was hosting a breast cancer event, she reached out; from there, one year has become five.
Now a board member, Freeman remains with the organization because she loves its focus on diverse groups.
“A lot of people, they may come to Wear It Well feeling one type of way, but when they leave, their whole perspective is totally different,” Freeman said.
She called Holland a “selfless person.”
In 2019, Wear It Well’s efforts were bolstered by the donation of the Morris Home, giving what was a mobile operation a permanent home. Its 2020 opening allowed for the addition of its after school and summer tutoring programs, along with Repeat Boutique, its clothing closet. Even as the pandemic hit and fundraising lulled, Holland innovated, keeping the organization open for people who needed access to technology.
“We are here to stay,” Holland said. “We’re not going anywhere. We are preparing for bigger and better things.”
Just five years after creating Wear It Well, Holland’s work is inspiring others.
Itawamba County native Dominique Clemons became interested in volunteering with the organization just two weeks ago. Clemons moved back to Northeast Mississippi from Chicago, partially to help her community. She joined Wear It Well because she thought they were doing good work.
“Anyone that grows up in Small Town, Mississippi, how can you not take great pleasure in giving back to your community,” Clemons said. “Wear It Well, Inc. is the perfect opportunity to broadcast and show those acts.
Holland is excited for Wear It Well’s next five years. Her goal is to cultivate the group’s current programs to serve more. There is a constant need for funding to move from being completely volunteer run to having a fully staffed program, owning its space by purchasing it, and renovating more.
“(God) basically said to serve the people,” she said. “That’s who we are and what we do.”
Wear It Well awards two with memorial scholarships
As part of its five-year celebration, Wear It Well recognized the current and upcoming generation of Northeast Mississippi leaders.
The agency on Monday named the recipients of its annual Leona Givhan Davis Memorial Scholarship. Named for Holland’s late grandmother, whose legacy inspired Wear It Well’s creation, the scholarship is presented to high school seniors or non-traditional students in select counties who represent the spirit of Davis’ generosity.
This year’s four recipients, selected from an applicant pool of over 50, included Bryson Bowdrey of Tupelo High School, Karon Bradley, Jr. of Pontotoc High School, Madison Shells of Shannon High School and Melesia Lindsey, a fifth year student at Life Christain University studying theology. Each recipient wrote an essay on serving like Davis.
Lindsey is the organization’s first non-traditional student to receive the scholarship. A mother of three with four step-children from a previous marriage, Lindsey has spent years traveling abroad as a missionary. When she returned stateside, she decided it was important to study God’s word in more depth.
She hopes to leave a legacy of always serving like Jesus.
Bowdrey will attend the University of Mississippi to study biology/pre-med. His goal is to be an emergency medicine doctor. Shells plans to attend East Mississippi Community College to major in nursing, with the goal of becoming a licensed practical nurse.
Bradley was the first recipient from the Davis lineage. For him, Davis is Old Mama, his grandmother’s mother, who together taught him love and lending a helping hand. He plans to continue serving by studying applied behavior analysis.
“Leona’s legacy will prevail through me,” Bradley wrote in his essay. “I am an offspring of her five generations who she taught to love, laugh, learn and live. I will continue to carry the torch.” | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/i-never-would-have-imagined-tupelo-based-nonprofit-wear-it-well-celebrates-five-years/article_51d1e935-0d3c-5ea4-84e8-b766d6a1899d.html | 2022-06-14T00:15:57 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/i-never-would-have-imagined-tupelo-based-nonprofit-wear-it-well-celebrates-five-years/article_51d1e935-0d3c-5ea4-84e8-b766d6a1899d.html |
The Arizona Department of Public Safety has identified a 48-year-old man who died in a two-vehicle crash on eastbound Interstate 10 near South Kino Parkway.
Brian Bausch was driving a 2009 Dodge pickup that was carrying a horse trailer when a Suzuki sideswiped his truck, causing Bausch to lose control, the Arizona Department of Public Safety said.
Bausch's pickup slammed into a cement pillar.
Bausch was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said there is no evidence of impairment.
The investigation is ongoing. | https://tucson.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/man-dies-following-saturday-crash-on-i-10-in-tucson/article_973f681a-eb5e-11ec-a993-473bb96921b3.html | 2022-06-14T00:16:25 | 1 | https://tucson.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/man-dies-following-saturday-crash-on-i-10-in-tucson/article_973f681a-eb5e-11ec-a993-473bb96921b3.html |
A 51-year-old pedestrian was fatally struck by a car while she was pushing a shopping cart in the roadway late Saturday, Tucson police said.
The woman, Michelle Armenta, was in the westbound, right-hand turn late of Wetmore Road, near Oracle Road, just before 11 p.m. when she was hit by a westbound Mitsubishi.
The driver stopped after the crash and cooperated with the investigation. It was determined the driver was not impaired, police said.
Armenta was taken to Banner-University Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. On Sunday, she died from injuries sustained in the crash, police said.
The investigation is ongoing. | https://tucson.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/woman-pushing-shopping-cart-in-tucson-roadway-killed/article_527a2764-eb50-11ec-9c0d-a3c8be307e7f.html | 2022-06-14T00:16:31 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/woman-pushing-shopping-cart-in-tucson-roadway-killed/article_527a2764-eb50-11ec-9c0d-a3c8be307e7f.html |
You may have noticed the new blue coat of paint going up on the long-vacant storefront.
The revived Lynn’s Furniture & Mattress plans to open a big-box store in the Highland Grove Shopping Center about a mile north of where it used to have a store in Schererville.
The furniture and mattress retailer is taking over the space at 10251 Indianapolis Boulevard formerly occupied by Dick’s Sporting Goods. It’s been vacant since 2018 when Dick’s Sporting Goods moved across the street to the newer Shops on Main development.
“Lynn’s Furniture & Mattress will be moving into this space,” Highland Building Commissioner Ken Mika said. “At this time they were just sprucing up the interior, changing the exterior paint color, and will be placing their brand name sign on the front of the space.”
The locally owned furniture chain, which also has a store in Portage, is investing $313,563 to renovate the space in Highland Grove, one of Northwest Indiana’s largest outdoor shopping malls.
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The Lynn family has been in the furniture and mattress business in Northwest Indiana since 1981, operating Lynn’s Bedroom City, Lynn’s Furniture and Carolina House Furniture. It had stores in Merrillville, Schererville, Valparaiso, Portage and DeMotte with the slogan “Shop smart. Buy local” that were voted Best of the Region by Times of Northwest Indiana readers several times.
They closed the last of those stores in 2015 when the family decided to pursue other opportunities.
But the mattress and furniture industries have seen many changes since then, such as the consolidation of many national brands that had experienced breakneck growth across the country and the closure of many Mattress Firm locations, including in Schererville, Michigan City and elsewhere in Northwest Indiana.
The Lynn family has since opened a new store under the Lynn’s Furniture & Mattress brand at 6245 U.S. 6 in Portage. The local family-run retailer offers a variety of hand-picked pieces of furniture “to provide current styles and the best value.”
It stocks sofas, beds, mattresses, dressers, recliners, chairs, sectionals, nightstands, office furniture, leather furniture and dining sets.
Lynn’s Furniture & Mattress will occupy 36,592 square feet in the 540,000 square foot outdoor shopping mall at Indianapolis Boulevard and Main Street in Highland, just north of the Schererville border and a few blocks from Munster to the west.
For more information, visit www.lynnsfm.com .
NWI Business Ins and Outs: Nothing Bundt Cakes, Basecamp Fitness, Northwest Health doctor's office opening; Fresh to Order closed
Coming soon
Nothing Bundt Cake will soon open its second Northwest Indiana location on U.S. 30 by the Southlake Mall in Hobart.
The bakery focusing on bundt cakes opened its location in Shops on Main in Schererville a few years ago. Now it's looking to bring something sweet to the former Helzberg Diamonds at 2871 E. 81st Ave., in a strip mall next to Hassleless Mattress.
"Right now we're looking to open in the first week of July," said Tammy Oliver, who owns the local franchise along with Valerie Warnell.
The building required extensive renovation to turn it from a jewelry store into a bakery. While most of the interior construction is complete, not all of the equipment has arrived because of shipping delays.
The new bakery will be about 2,500 square feet or about 1,000 square feet bigger than the current Schererville location. It will employ about 25 to 30 people.
"There will be more room for baking and frosting," Oliver said. "We'll be able to have more staff. Our location here is so tiny in the back. We'll be able to work there with a larger staff."
Joseph S. Pete
Closer to customers
Nothing Bundt Cake specializes in cakes ranging from bite-sized to tiered.
"We sell bundt cakes in four different sizes," she said. "We have a different seasonal flavor each month. This month is blueberry. Next month it will be completely new and you'll just have to wait and see. Most of the seasonal flavors are regular like pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint chocolate around Christmas. We just had strawberry, which was huge."
The Las Vegas-based chain was started in 1997 and has grown to 400 locations worldwide.
"I would attribute our success to the product," Oliver said. "It's moist, flavorful and high-quality. Anyone who tastes our cake knows."
The Nothing Bundt Cake in Schererville draws customers from as far away as Valparaiso and Michigan City. The franchisees decided to put a second location closer to some of their more far-flung customers.
"We've had so many requests for another location," she said. "Customers coming in from further, from Valparaiso and Hobart, have had so many requests. It's finally time to open in that area, so customers don't have to travel 30 or 40 minutes."
Joseph S. Pete
'A lot of visibility'
Nothing Bundt Cake searched for some time for a new location in Hobart or Merrillville and finally found one along a highly trafficked stretch of U.S. 30.
"It has a lot of visibility off U.S. 30," Oliver said. "Not everyone has tried our cakes so that visibility helps. It's a busy route."
Nothing Bundt Cakes makes cakes for birthdays, weddings, graduations, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and other holidays. It's especially popular around Thanksgiving and Christmas both as gifts and for people cooking at home who want one less thing to worry about, Oliver said.
All of the cakes are baked fresh on-site daily.
"We make homemade cakes. People like the quality of the cake and the taste of the cake," she said. "People who sample our cake are never disappointed. It's the richness, the moisture and the flavor. It's all handmade in our bakery."
For more information, visit nothingbundtcakes.com , call (219) 300-8570 or follow the business on Facebook.
Joseph S. Pete
Closed
Fresh to Order recently closed after a run of a few years on U.S. 30 near Broadway in Merrillville.
The "fine-fast" restaurant merged the convenience of a fast-casual restaurant like Panera Bread or Chipotle with the chef-driven culinary experience normally offered at a white tablecloth restaurant.
The menu featured prime steak medallions, flame-grilled shrimp, salmon, ahi tuna, crispy calamari, salads and paninis. It dramatically showcased open flames in its open kitchen to emphasize its food was flame-grilled.
A South African native of Greek descent started the small chain in Johannesburg. It now mostly has locations in the Atlanta metro, including at the CNN Center, the Cumberland Mall and the Atlanta Airport, which is the busiest in the United States.
Fresh to Order opened in 2018 at 540 81st Ave. in Merrillville, in a strip mall shared with Planet Fitness and Catch Table and Tap.
Joseph S. Pete
Coming soon
Northwest Health broke ground on the construction of a new Northwest Medical Group office in Valparaiso.
The health care provider is investing $8.3 million in the new medical facility by the intersection of Calumet Avenue and Vale Park Road in Valparaiso. It will house primary care physicians with the Northwest Medical Group.
"Northwest Health is implementing a multi-phase strategic investment to enhance patient care and address the need for access to health services throughout the Region," the health care system said in a news release. "The strategy will result in integrated electronic medical records, convenient locations, the addition of more physicians and other caregivers, and easier access to providers."
The new medical office should open in Valparaiso early next year.
"The new location in Valparaiso marks the culmination of the first phase of the investment," Northwest Health said in a press release. "Other projects in phase one, totaling more than $38 million, are new patient access points in LaPorte, Michigan City and Portage."
Joseph S. Pete
Now open
Basecamp Fitness recently opened its new Schererville studio near the IHOP at the Crossroads of America intersection.
The gym at 1906 U.S. 41 offers High-intensity Interval Training that mixes core, cardio and strength training. Coaches lead group classes that "push you from start to finish, helping you reach your personal best through a 35-minute hyper-efficient program."
The workouts are frequently switched up to ensure they remain challenging so people don't get stuck in the rut of a fitness plateau.
Joseph S. Pete
First Indiana location
The Schererville location is Basecamp's first in Indiana. It also has gyms in Illinois, Minnesota, Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, and Wisconsin.
For more information, call 219-301-2111, email schererville_IN@basecampfitness.com or visit basecampfitness.com .
Joseph S. Pete
Under renovation
The White Castle at 800 W. Lincoln Highway at the Crossroads of America intersection in Schererville has been undergoing interior renovations.
The dining room has been temporarily closed during the construction but the drive-thru has remained open for anyone craving a sack full of sliders.
Joseph S. Pete
Closed
Nicky's Gyros permanently closed at 5455 US-6 in Portage earlier this year after the property was sold.
The long-running fast-food restaurant sold gyros, hot dogs, rib tops, tacos, tortas, burritos and dinner plates.
The owners sold the building, which is now Deep Blue Seafood and Chicken. The new restaurant offers seafood boils, fish, lobster tails, sandwiches, tacos and southern sides.
Joseph S. Pete
Closed
Bibi's Bites Wood Fired Pizza closed late last year at 302 Melton Road in Burns Harbor after the owners opted to pursue another opportunity that came along.
Joseph S. Pete
Available for rent
The restaurant opened shortly before the coronavirus pandemic hit in 2020 and specialized in gourmet pizza baked in a wood-fired oven. It also had smash burgers, Philly steaks, Italian beef and other sandwiches.
If you would like your business to be included in a future column, email joseph.pete@nwi.com .
Joseph S. Pete
WATCH NOW: Riding Shotgun with NWI Cops — Patrolling Lowell with Cpl. Aaron Crawford
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NWI Business Ins and Outs: Crown Point Burger King reopens this month; Buffalo Wild Wings closes, SerenDIPity Ice Cream Parlor; Lucky Hatchet …
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Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. | https://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/lynn-s-furniture-mattress-taking-over-dicks-sporting-goods-big-box-space-in-highland-grove/article_d157bf05-dccc-596a-bff1-5bb5f71efc88.html | 2022-06-14T00:17:15 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/lynn-s-furniture-mattress-taking-over-dicks-sporting-goods-big-box-space-in-highland-grove/article_d157bf05-dccc-596a-bff1-5bb5f71efc88.html |
Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr., Indiana's Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate, soon will have three additional statewide candidates working alongside him trying to elect Democrats to top offices at the Nov. 8 general election.
The Indiana Democratic Party on Monday unveiled the individuals running unopposed at Saturday's state convention for the party's nomination for secretary of state, state auditor and state treasurer.
Destiny Wells of Indianapolis has been on the trail the longest running for Indiana secretary of state. She's an attorney, business owner and a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Wells said that if elected, her goals include ensuring free and fair elections for all Hoosiers and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs through the secretary of state's business services division.
"The secretary of state's race has never been more important. Democracy is on the ballot this year, and I am thrilled to be the standard-bearer for the pro-democracy party," Wells said.
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ZeNai Brooks of Indianapolis is a certified public accountant with experience working at some of the state's biggest businesses. She believes that's prepared her to keep Indiana's financial books in order as state auditor.
Brooks said electing her also will bring needed diversity to the Statehouse, help restore trust in state government and ensure historically underserved and underrepresented groups across the state are considered when funding decisions are made.
"I look forward to creating more exposure for the state auditor and building a bridge between policy and what the residents of Indiana care about," Brooks said. "It's an honor to be running as the Democratic nominee for state auditor as an extension of my career and dedication to the accounting profession for almost 15 years."
Finally, the Democratic candidate for state treasurer, Jessica McClellan of Bloomington, already is managing the finances of Indiana's 12th largest county after being elected Monroe County treasurer in 2017.
At the state level, she hopes to increase participation in Indiana's CollegeChoice 529 education savings program, improve financial stability for Hoosiers lacking bank accounts, encourage more local governments to participate in pooled investment and financing and create a retirement investment program for Indiana workers with no retirement savings options at their jobs.
"I'm excited to be on this ticket because we represent a generation of tough, hardworking women who have real life experiences that can change the tone in our state government," McClellan said. "I have the experience to bring a balance of power to the oversight of our public funds and stretch the value of our healthy cash reserves to aid the needs of urban and rural communities."
The Indiana Republican Party also is holding its state party convention Saturday to nominate candidates for these three offices.
State Auditor Tera Klutz is unopposed for renomination to a second term, while GOP convention delegates must choose between four candidates, including incumbent Holli Sullivan, seeking the secretary of state nomination, and the four Republicans vying for the party's state treasurer nod. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/elections/3-women-set-to-lead-democratic-ticket-for-state-offices/article_2ba733b8-52d7-54bb-adb4-991da670ad31.html | 2022-06-14T00:17:27 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/elections/3-women-set-to-lead-democratic-ticket-for-state-offices/article_2ba733b8-52d7-54bb-adb4-991da670ad31.html |
PORTAGE — The Portage Parks Department hosts Market on the Square on Fridays through Aug. 19.
The fair runs from 3 to 9 p.m. at Founders Square and features vendors with unique crafts, fresh produce, fresh meats and other items along with food trucks/tents and live music.
There is live music from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and showcases John "DonDo" this Friday; In Frequency on June 24; Chicken Dolphin Band on July 1; Kris and DJ from Stop.Drop.Rewind on July 8; Ally Christian on July 15; For Pete's Sake on July 22; Amy McCormick and Aaron Harris on July 29; Chris and Lou on Aug. 5; to be determined on Aug. 12; and Dan Reisen on Aug. 19.
There will also be Summer Disney Movies at Founders Square each Friday in June and July following Market on the Square.
Each family-friendly movie will begin at dusk. Families should bring chairs or blankets. Admission is free.
The movie lineup includes "Frozen 2" this Friday; "Coco" on June 24; "Finding Nemo" on July 1; "Luca" on July 8; "Moana" on July 15; "Lion King" (animated) on July 22; and "Beauty and the Beast" (animated) on July 29.
Illiana Christian baseball senior Ian Van Beek takes a swing in his team’s 6-0 semistate championship win over Wapahani at Kokomo Municipal Stadium on Saturday.
South Central players watch from the dugout in the seventh inning with bases loaded and two out against Lafayette Central Catholic during the 1A Semistate game at LaPorte High School Saturday.
David A. Roberts, far right, accepts his induction into the Purdue University Northwest Alumni Hall of Fame on Friday. Making the presentation, from left, are Niaz Latif, dean of the PNW College of Technology, and PNW Chancellor Thomas L. Keon.
Purdue University Chancellor Thomas L. Keon, right, displays his Sagamore of the Wabash award with Chris White, publisher of The Times of Northwest Indiana.
Cedar Lake groundbreaking for the town's new dewatering facility
Members of the Lakeside Artists Guild and Academy Andy Anderson and his sons James, left, and Eli perform ahead of a groundbreaking ceremony for Cedar Lake's new dewatering facility.
Several furry friends were also in attendance at Hammond's Wolf Lake Park on Sunday. Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries took part in Leon's Triathlon festivities, offering support and affection to all.
Semi-pro sand sculptor Marcie Cowles, of Louisville, Ohio, works on a second giraffe for her Noah's Ark sculpture. Cowles credited fellow sculptor Laurie Tournoux for being a mentor.
Check out the Times' picks for the best images from the past week.
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Illiana Christian, semistate
Illiana Christian celebrates its 6-0 semistate championship win over Wapahani at Kokomo Municipal Stadium on Saturday.
Provided by Gus Martin, The Star Press
Illiana Christian, semistate
Illiana Christian baseball senior Ian Van Beek takes a swing in his team’s 6-0 semistate championship win over Wapahani at Kokomo Municipal Stadium on Saturday.
Provided by Gus Martin, The Star Press.
061222-spt-bbh-sc_7
South Central players watch from the dugout in the seventh inning with bases loaded and two out against Lafayette Central Catholic during the 1A Semistate game at LaPorte High School Saturday.
Jeffrey D. Nicholls, The Times
061222-spt-bbh-sc_8
South Central’s Bradley Ferrell give the ball to Brayden Grass in the eighth inning during the 1A Semistate game at LaPorte High School Saturday.
Jeffrey D. Nicholls, The Times
Alum, chancellor honored at PNW Gala
David A. Roberts, far right, accepts his induction into the Purdue University Northwest Alumni Hall of Fame on Friday. Making the presentation, from left, are Niaz Latif, dean of the PNW College of Technology, and PNW Chancellor Thomas L. Keon.
Steve Euvino
Alum, chancellor honored at PNW Gala
Purdue University Chancellor Thomas L. Keon, right, displays his Sagamore of the Wabash award with Chris White, publisher of The Times of Northwest Indiana.
Steve Euvino
South Central vs. Tecumseh in Class 1A softball state championship game
South Central's Olivia Marks and Tennley Werner receive their runner-up medals after the Class A state final on Friday.
John J. Watkins, The Times
South Central vs. Tecumseh in Class 1A softball state championship game
South Central's Lexi Johnson and Delanie Gale embrace following their state softball loss to Tecumseh.
John J. Watkins, The Times
South Central vs. Tecumseh in Class 1A softball state championship game
South Central's Lauren Bowmar and Olivia Marks console each other following their loss to Tecumsehin the Class A state final on Friday.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Lake Central Regional boys golf
Lake Central's Tyler Morton ponders his putt on the first hole.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Hammond Central Graduation
Patricia Cisneros hugs her daughter Leticia Haro following the Hammond Central graduation ceremony.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Hammond Central Graduation
Julio Agosto proudly displays his Mexican flag as he prepares to receive his diploma at the Hammond Central commencement.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Hammond Central Graduation
Mireyna Baez cheers for her fellow classmates at the Hammond Central High School commencement.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Hammond Central Graduation
Devon Rodriguez is elated after receiving his diploma at the Hammond Central graduation ceremony.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Crown Point High School graduation
Cristian Espinoza congratulates his fellow graduates at Crown Point High School's graduation.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Crown Point High School graduation
Hats fly at the conclusion of Crown Point High School's graduation.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Crown Point High School graduation
David Ramos gives a big hug to his son Elijah following the Crown Point High School graduation.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Crown Point High School graduation
Nikola Paic celebrates after receiving his diploma at the Crown Point High School graduation.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Cedar Lake groundbreaking for the town's new de-watering facility
A groundbreaking for Cedar Lake's new dewatering facility was held behind the Town Hall. The actual facility will be built at a different location.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Cedar Lake groundbreaking for the town's new dewatering facility
Members of the Lakeside Artists Guild and Academy Andy Anderson and his sons James, left, and Eli perform ahead of a groundbreaking ceremony for Cedar Lake's new dewatering facility.
John J. Watkins, The Times
060622-spt-triathlon_02
Leon's Triathlon participants make their last push towards the finish line during the event's third and final segment in Hammond on Sunday.
Joe Ruffalo, The Times
060622-spt-triathlon_10
A cyclist participating in Leon's Triathlon speeds down Calumet Avenue during the cycling portion of the event on Sunday morning.
Joe Ruffalo, The Times
060622-spt-triathlon_09
Several furry friends were also in attendance at Hammond's Wolf Lake Park on Sunday. Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries took part in Leon's Triathlon festivities, offering support and affection to all.
Joe Ruffalo, The Times
Portage High School graduation
Comfort dog "Isaiah" relaxes after leading the students onto the field at the Portage High School commencement.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Portage High School graduation
Matthew Vandiver looks over a program as he holds flowers for his daughter Cidney Vandiver at the Portage High School commencement.
John J. Watkins, The Times
Sculptors bring sand art to life
Sand sculptor Bruce Peck, of Sarasota, Florida, works on his elephant sculpture.
Doug Ross, The Times
Sculptors bring sand art to life
Semi-pro sand sculptor Marcie Cowles, of Louisville, Ohio, works on a second giraffe for her Noah's Ark sculpture. Cowles credited fellow sculptor Laurie Tournoux for being a mentor.
Doug Ross, The Times
Sculptors bring sand art to life
Lisa Feuless, of Ovid, Michigan, works on her "Gnome Home" sculpture.
The Times Media Company is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Northwest Indiana, through local news, information, service initiatives and community partnerships.
Seven or eight years ago, the council chamber on the second floor of City Hall was converted into an office for the building and planning department. Public meetings were moved to Woodland Park.
The master plan for the site includes two baseball field, along with a 65,000-square-foot indoor training facility. A quarter-mile walking track would surround the site. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/portage/portage-parks-department-hosts-market-on-the-square/article_97752755-ea52-5ef6-aab2-4cc8aa10aedc.html | 2022-06-14T00:17:33 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/portage/portage-parks-department-hosts-market-on-the-square/article_97752755-ea52-5ef6-aab2-4cc8aa10aedc.html |
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Carter In The ClassroomFocusing on unique things school districts are doing to help children succeed. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/carter-in-the-classroom/dallas-isd-working-with-districts-around-the-country-for-safety/2991486/ | 2022-06-14T00:39:55 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/carter-in-the-classroom/dallas-isd-working-with-districts-around-the-country-for-safety/2991486/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/community-say-they-are-pleased-with-police-response-after-duncanville-shooting/2991461/ | 2022-06-14T00:40:01 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/community-say-they-are-pleased-with-police-response-after-duncanville-shooting/2991461/ |
ELK GROVE, Calif — Orsula Hanna, from Elk Grove, is turning 105-years-old on June 14.
Orsula was born in Pennsylvania on June 14, 1917. She is the oldest, and only one remaining, of her six siblings.
At 27-years-old, Orsula began working at Westinghouse Electric where she wired motors that were used during World War II in 1945. Orsula says in her 105-years of life, this is still one of her proudest accomplishments.
While in Pennsylvania, she also met her husband Michael, who passed away in 1983. The two moved to California where they got married in San Bernardino in 1945 and had a daughter, Nadine, who they raised in Upland, Calif.
In 1983, Orsula moved to Sacramento to be closer to her daughter and family.
Three years after moving to Sacramento, Orsula began volunteering at Kaiser Permanente in South Sacramento where she volunteered until she was 100-years-old.
At 105-years-old, Orsula says she "feels no different" than when she turned 100. Orsula says she has continued to stay in good health by exercising daily and eating healthy.
"Orsula read online that blueberries were good for her, so she has been eating them almost every morning since," an Elk Grove Park Assisted Living and Memory Care staff member said. "She also makes her own bed everyday and does her own fitness routine in her room every morning."
Orsula's advice to others would be "to live day by day, be friends with others, and be helpful when you can."
The staff members at Elk Grove Park Assisted Living and Memory Care all said Orsula is a sweet, kind and patient woman.
"We love having conversations with Orsula because she is always pleasant to talk to and full of laughter," one staff member shared. "It blows my mind that she is 105 as she has an incredible memory of her past."
Those at Elk Grove Park Assisted Living and Memory Care are encouraging community members to send Orsula birthday cards.
Birthday cards can be sent to Life Enrichment Director, Stephanie Philp’s, attention at 6727 Laguna Park Drive, Elk Grove, CA 95758.
ABC10: Watch, Download, Read
Watch more from ABC10: 'She's a true trail-blazer' | Stockton’s first Black teacher turns 102-years-old | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/elk-grove/elk-grove-woman-turns-105-years-old/103-0483a3d5-ac61-493f-9fb7-53b6d465c343 | 2022-06-14T00:40:05 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/elk-grove/elk-grove-woman-turns-105-years-old/103-0483a3d5-ac61-493f-9fb7-53b6d465c343 |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/former-fort-worth-officer-charged-with-atatiana-jefferson-murder-has-trial-delayed/2991454/ | 2022-06-14T00:40:08 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/former-fort-worth-officer-charged-with-atatiana-jefferson-murder-has-trial-delayed/2991454/ |
ELK GROVE, Calif. — A motorcyclist was killed in a crash along Hood Franklin Road near Elk Grove on Sunday.
According to California Highway Patrol, they received a call regarding a crash on Hood Franklin Road, just west of I-5 on June 12 around 12:48 p.m.
CHP says the driver of a Kia Sorento was traveling westbound on Hood Franklin Road and began making a U-turn in hopes of entering southbound I-5.
A motorcyclist on a Harley Davidson was traveling westbound behind the Kia on Hood Franklin Road. The motorcyclist crossed into the eastbound lanes to pass the Kia, but crashed into the vehicle's left side.
On June 13, investigators were notified that the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at Kaiser South Hospital. CHP says the driver of the Kia did not suffer any injuries as a result of the crash.
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Watch more from ABC10: A Sacramento County woman in limbo waiting years for her home to be built | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/motorcyclist-dead-crash-hood-franklin-road/103-3fb6824c-0279-478a-a2fb-55930fa0d075 | 2022-06-14T00:40:11 | 0 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/motorcyclist-dead-crash-hood-franklin-road/103-3fb6824c-0279-478a-a2fb-55930fa0d075 |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/is-the-great-resignation-slowing-and-what-does-it-mean-for-workers/2991460/ | 2022-06-14T00:40:15 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/is-the-great-resignation-slowing-and-what-does-it-mean-for-workers/2991460/ |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Police are investigating a hit-and-run that left a man dead early Monday morning in South Sacramento.
The man was found dead after being hit by a vehicle along Florin Road.
The California Highway Patrol received a call just after midnight from a passerby who noticed what looked like a body in the middle of the road as they were heading westbound, east of Bowling Drive.
Police arrived and found a man who was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to CHP, the victims personal belongings were no where to be found, making his identity unknown at this time.
This is an ongoing investigation. CHP currently have no information on the suspect who fled the scene following the collision.
Watch more from ABC10: Gang allegedly involved in K Street shootout tied to 2020 deadly shootings of teen, child | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/south-sacramento/fatal-hit-and-run-south-sacramento/103-d2ef6ff6-eb5c-4509-add0-d5adfd1e3a75 | 2022-06-14T00:40:17 | 0 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/south-sacramento/fatal-hit-and-run-south-sacramento/103-d2ef6ff6-eb5c-4509-add0-d5adfd1e3a75 |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — The cost of food is rising and so is the demand to feed families in Pennsylvania.
"People who perhaps were getting by just fine maybe a year ago are finding a real squeeze in trying to pay their bills and buy groceries," said Amy Hill with the Central Pa. Food Bank.
The Central Pa. Food Bank serves about 200,000 Pennsylvanians every month.
Hill says they're seeing a 10 percent increase in demand compared to this time last year.
"So far, we've been able to meet this increased demand, but it certainly put a stretch on our own budgets," Hill explained.
Inflation is also playing a huge role on the state's charitable food network, Hunger-Free Pennsylvania.
"It's like one punch after the other. It's not just the cost of the food, it's the availability of food," said Sheila Christopher, Executive Director for Hunger-Free Pennsylvania.
To combat this, Christopher is asking for a $3 million state funding increase to the State Food Purchase Program. This program provides cash grants to counties to provide food for low-income families.
Currently, Gov. Tom Wolf has $20.1 million allocated for this program in the proposed 2022-23 general fund budget.
"We're not asking for more money to buy more food to serve more people," Christopher said. "We're just trying to maintain the service that we're currently doing."
The Central Pa. Food Bank is supporting Hunger-Free Pennsylvania in this call to the state legislature.
"We are able to use the State Food Purchase Program to help fill in the gaps where maybe we don't get donations or we can augment something that's coming from another government program," Hill explained. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/inflation-central-pennsylvania-food-banks-costs/521-a1f02cc9-cace-4348-b99f-08e548cdb2f0 | 2022-06-14T00:41:42 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/inflation-central-pennsylvania-food-banks-costs/521-a1f02cc9-cace-4348-b99f-08e548cdb2f0 |
Dozens of community organizations will receive $425,000 in grants for summer camps and events targeting youth in Richmond neighborhoods that see high rates of violence, the city and NextUp RVA, a non-profit organization dolling out the federal funds from the American Recovery Plan Act, announced Monday.
The grant program, named the Positive Youth Development Fund, is part of the city's gun violence prevention initiative. Another round of grants totaling $475,000 will be awarded later this year for programming during the 2022-23 school year. The remainder, about 10% of the $1 million total, will stay with NextUp RVA for its administrative and oversight costs.
NextUp already oversees about 60 organizations that provide after-school programming for Richmond Public Schools students, according to executive director Barbara Couto Sipe. She said the grant program was a "natural fit" for their non-profit to see that children have engagement and enrichment over the summer as well.
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"The more that the kids do, the better," said Barbara Couto Sipe, executive director of NextUp, which already oversees about 60 organizations that provide after-school programming for Richmond Public Schools students. "I'd love it if every teenager was busy from sun up to sun down doing some great programs from June until September."
This first round of recipients include 37 organizations are offering summer camps or events for teens ages 12-19 or their families. Sipe said that age group was where "the biggest gap" exists in terms of programming. She estimates that only about five of the 37 organizations overlap with NextUp's current after-school network.
Sandra Sykes, who leads the New Life Community Center at New Life Deliverance Tabernacle on Decatur Street, said the grant money they received — $18,000 — will help double the number of the kids they have in the church's basketball camp this summer, which runs for four days a week for three weeks. Typically, they have about 25 kids enrolled, but Sykes expects about 50 this year.
"For those three weeks, we know that those kids are going to be safe," Sykes said.
The city of Richmond will partner with a California-based nonprofit group to launch a gun buyback program later this year.
That's the goal, Sipe said.
“We have to do everything possible to prevent violence in our community and to protect our children and their families,” Mayor Levar Stoney said in a press release announcing the organizations. “Making grants accessible to grassroots organizations that know and work in the community will help ensure those closest to impacted communities have the resources to disrupt the cycle of violence, and encourage positive development for our youngest residents.”
Sipe said the non-profit will also be checking in with the organizations to measure how many kids participate and how often, and follow up with those students to see if they've seen any improvements in their schooling or self-worth.
For a complete list of the programs, click here.
The grants are just one component of the city’s gun violence reduction strategy, which also includes a gun buy-back program, and the hiring of a Community Safety Coordinator and civilian “Violence Interrupters” to deescalate conflict. | https://richmond.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/these-37-organizations-are-getting-money-for-positive-youth-development-violence-prevention/article_5e3165fd-6575-59ee-b7aa-32601c0e94f2.html | 2022-06-14T00:41:48 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/these-37-organizations-are-getting-money-for-positive-youth-development-violence-prevention/article_5e3165fd-6575-59ee-b7aa-32601c0e94f2.html |
The city of Richmond will partner with a California-based nonprofit group to launch a gun buyback program later this year.
As the city continues to grapple with shootings and a rise in homicides, Mayor Levar Stoney and other city officials are hoping that the program will reduce the number of firearms on the street by allowing gun owners to surrender weapons they own in exchange for gift cards.
The council voted unanimously Monday night to adopt the grant contract with The Robby Poblete Foundation.
Under the terms of the grant agreement, the city will allocate $83,050 to the Foundation to administer the program. While the Richmond Police Department will be responsible for taking the firearms, the Foundation will use $67,500 to buy the gift cards. The agreement does not say how much will be paid for each firearm. A spokeswoman for the city administration said the amount will depend on the type of firearm, but did not specify a range.
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While the council approved the grant contract along with other ostensibly non-controversial items in a single bloc vote, a few council members said they were still unsure of how it would work and whether it can efficiently reduce violent crime.
Ninth District Councilman Michael Jones said he fears that they could "be on the hook" if it does not, and that it would open them to public accusations of inaction. Reva Trammell, who represents the city's 8th district, questioned whether the gift cards could be used to buy new guns. Chief Administrative Officer Lincoln Saunders said participants will not be able to do so with the cards that are purchased.
A few officials spoke in favor of the ordinance, which was expected to pass as five of the nine council members had already signed on as co-patrons ahead of Monday's meeting.
"We know that there is no silver bullet solution to the gun violence epidemic ... including this gun buy back program," said Councilwoman Ann-Frances Lambert. "But if executed properly, we can save lives."
A man has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in a May 6 crash near the National Theater downtown that fatally injured a pedestrian.
The Robby Poblete Foundation, founded by the mother of a man slain in Vallejo, California, in 2014, has worked with a handful of communities on gun buyback programs. The organization's websites says it has collected nearly 1,400 guns at buyback events in Augusta, Georgia; San Francisco; and other California localities.
Stoney and other officials have said gun violence prevention is a top priority for the city.
The funding for the grant contract will be drawn from $500,000 the city has allocated from its federal American Rescue Plan Act allotment for "gun buy back events and responsible gun ownership education," according to a memo from the mayor's office. The city has also allocated $1 million from the COVID-19 pandemic aid package to the nonprofit NextUp to support after school programs.
Though politicians nationwide have been discussing new violence prevention efforts and gun control measures following the school shooting massacre in Ulvalde, Texas, Stoney first announced the city's plans for the gun buyback program in his State of the City address in February.
In addition to Richmond, the city of Portsmouth is planning to hold its own gun buyback event on June 25.
(804) 649-6178 | https://richmond.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/richmond-council-oks-83-000-for-gun-buyback/article_0a88df4f-6619-5cd6-a3e1-babb38c57199.html | 2022-06-14T00:41:54 | 1 | https://richmond.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/richmond-council-oks-83-000-for-gun-buyback/article_0a88df4f-6619-5cd6-a3e1-babb38c57199.html |
A Virginia man who was arrested in Philadelphia in 2020 while presidential election ballots were being counted was a "central" conspirator of the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, Philadelphia's District Attorney's Office alleged Monday.
Joshua Macias, who was charged with carrying an illegal firearm and interfering with an election, has been out on bail since late 2020. Days after his release, on the evening of Jan. 5, 2021, he met with insurrection planners in an underground parking garage, prosecutors said. A documentary video purports to show Macias speaking with leaders of the right-wing organizations Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.
The district attorney's office has filed a motion to have Macias found in contempt of court for violating his bail.
"We thought they were medium-sized fish," Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said of Macias and the man arrested alongside him, Virginia resident Antonio LaMotta. "We thought they weren't sharks," Krasner said during a news conference shown on Facebook.\
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"I say he is a shark," Krasner said, referring to Macias. "He has proven how dangerous he can be."
Macias, 43, and LaMotta, 63, were arrested in November 2020 outside the Pennsylvania Convention Center, where officials were counting mail-in ballots for the presidential election between Democrat Joe Biden and President Donald Trump, the GOP nominee. Macias and LaMotta carried handguns on their bodies, and police said they found an assault-style rifle and 160 rounds of ammunition in their Hummer. Their weapons weren't registered in Pennsylvania.
Prosecutors say they were there to disrupt the counting of the election. Lisa Deely, chair of the Philadelphia City Commissioners, said Monday she believed a mass shooting was avoided when the pair were arrested.
Macias and LaMotta were known to attend right-wing rallies, including events in Richmond. Macias co-founded an organization called Vets for Trump.
The two men were charged with illegal possession of firearms, interfering with an election and hindering performance of duty and conspiracy. A trial is scheduled for October.
Macias was released on $850,000 bail. The day before the insurrection, he met in an underground parking garage with Enrique Tarrio, head of the Proud Boys, and Stewart Rhodes, organizer for the Oath Keepers.
Tarrio and Stewart have been charged with seditious conspiracy. The Proud Boys, Tarrio's organization, were the "tip of the spear," leading marchers inside and smashing a window to enter the Capitol, Krasner said.
During the meeting, they planned the events of Jan. 6, said Brian Collins, an assistant district attorney. It's unclear when and why the video of the conversation was released. The speakers signaled to the camera operator to step away so their conversation couldn't be heard, Krasner said.
The next day, Macias stayed outside the Capitol, and on video he called then-Vice President Mike Pence "Benedict Arnold," Krasner said. LaMotta entered the Capitol.
A lawyer for Macias did not respond to a request for comment. | https://richmond.com/news/local/virginia-man-helped-plan-jan-6-insurrection-philadelphia-da-says/article_63a25725-35c1-5825-a4c5-69191daa6cfd.html | 2022-06-14T00:42:00 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/virginia-man-helped-plan-jan-6-insurrection-philadelphia-da-says/article_63a25725-35c1-5825-a4c5-69191daa6cfd.html |
Cecelia Soukup, 19, has been a lifeguard since she was 15, but this summer she will not return to the stand because she feels like it’s no longer “worth it” because of the low pay and long days.
“You’re definitely overworked and underpaid for all the work you are doing,” Soukup said.
Soukup began lifeguarding at her North Chesterfield County neighborhood pool, which she said she enjoyed because of the community. Later, she lifeguarded at another small community pool and at Swim RVA, an Olympic-style swimming pool, where swim teams practice and meets are held year-round.
“You are getting paid minimum wage to not only be on stand for a long time and getting exhausted in the heat ... sitting there is not your only job,” Soukup said.
When Soukup started lifeguarding, the minimum hourly wage was $7.25. Since then, it has risen to $11. At her previous pools, on top of guarding she was in charge of cleaning the bathrooms without any extra compensation.
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Soukup is not the only lifeguard who is finding employment elsewhere.
Lifeguards are in high demand across the country.
In Chicago, 686 people had applied to become lifeguards and none had been hired — the candidates needed their certification from the American Red Cross, which had only recently resumed training following the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Lewes, Del., “Swim at your own risk” signs were placed on the beaches as a result of staffing shortages.
In Philadelphia, the city had only enough lifeguards to open 18 of its 65 public outdoor pools.
The lifeguard shortage hit greater Richmond last year as well. Colliding with COVID restrictions, pools had to adjust operations to ensure a proper level of safety.
Tamara Jenkins, a spokesperson for Richmond Parks & Recreation, says the department had to limit the capacity of its nine public swimming pools.
Chrissy Fandel, the association aquatics director at YMCA of Greater Richmond, said, “We’ve been doing our very best to try and keep our pool locations open for our members to use. But that may change based on the ability to keep the pool safe. If we don’t have enough lifeguards, then hours do have to be modified.”
Raising wages to combat shortage
As COVID restrictions continue to lift, the demand for workers continues to grow. One trend is rising wages.
This summer, Soukup is opting to be a nanny. According to Indeed.com, the average hourly wage for a nanny or babysitter in the Richmond area is $19 an hour.
Despite Virginia’s minimum wage raising to $11 per hour in January, many employers are offering more. Employees at Starbucks make at least $15 per hour and $17 per hour during the summer. Chipotle raised its wages to an average of $15 for its employees.
The Center for Labor Markets and Policy at Drexel University predicts the employment rate for 16- to 19-year-olds this summer is 32.8%. In 2021, Virginia had an employment rate of 45.9%, which was ranked 19th out of all 50 states and Washington.
Aquatic centers are also raising their wages significantly to compete with the growing demand for workers.
Jenkins reported that the lifeguard pay starts at $17 an hour for Richmond’s public pools. This is a change from the $15 lifeguards previously made due to the city of Richmond’s requirements that all positions start at $17.
Richmond public pools are in full operation capacity this year. Over Memorial Day weekend, they welcomed nearly 3,000 people, Jenkins said. While Richmond still has some lifeguard positions open, Jenkins said they are in a good position to operate for the summer.
Some venues, like the aquatic center at Pocahontas State Park, partner with companies like Swim Club Management Group of Virginia, a private contractor that provides lifeguard services. The public-private partnership allowed the park to “borrow” lifeguards from other areas as needed.
Lifeguards directly hired by Pocahontas were generally high school and college students, said park manager Nate Clark.
The park aimed to hire 30 lifeguards for the summer at $15 an hour.
“We [Virginia State Parks] rely really, really heavily on our seasonal summer staff, but it seems like the last couple of years, it’s been a little more difficult to get people on enough applications and get positions filled,” Clark said.
Over the past two years, Swim Club Management Group had struggled to hire lifeguards, said regional director Tanner Kelson. This year, knowing that many of its branches were facing similar issues, it made sure to take proactive steps to curb the shortage.
“We’re not being faced with the implications of a lifeguard shortage, but we knew that there were certain things we’d need to do within our company to ensure we would have the lifeguards to staff our facilities,” Kelson said.
By raising the starting pay to $15 an hour and creating a welcoming work environment, the group was able to hire 585 of their recommended 600 lifeguards for the summer season — the majority of them being high schoolers.
For some establishments, like Westview on the James, raising wages was not an option. Westview is a sleepaway camp in Goochland County that is still looking to hire waterfront specialists who lifeguard and lead campers in activities on water trampolines, boats and a slide. Counselors at the camp do not make an hourly wage, but are paid weekly.
Sydney Barefoot, Westview’s aquatic director, says applicants are losing interest in having a “fun” job in favor of higher-paying ones.
“My biggest issue is keeping people interested in the position after they apply,” Barefoot said. “I’ll get a number of applications in, but after the interviewing and hiring process is over, I’ll get a call or an email that says a higher-paying job position or internship has kind of come around, and it just sways people away from wanting to be a lifeguard.”
As of now, Westview has only two of the desired four waterfront staff positions filled, and Barefoot says this is affecting the camp’s operations.
“We do have to modify some activities and even cancel activities to make sure that everyone in the water is being watched,” Barefoot said.
Finding the right candidates
Even with paying competitive wages, not every individual is qualified to be a lifeguard.
All potential lifeguards have to be certified through a class that tests their knowledge and swimming skills. The certification can cost anywhere from $275 to $385 depending on the service. Many employers, including the YMCAs of Greater Richmond, pay for the cost of the training to lower the barrier for potential employees.
Fandel says the YMCA pays for lifeguard training and gives bonuses to employees who refer others that are lifeguard-certified.
In addition, there will also be the opportunity to attend a lifeguard preparatory program through the Goochland Family YMCA. The program is geared toward those who want to become lifeguards but need more training
Swim Club Management and Westview on the James pay for their employees’ certifications as well.
However, many lifeguards with experience will have moved on by now, Clark said. Former lifeguards at Pocahontas who may have been working for multiple summers in a row have most likely moved on to other positions after graduating from high school or college during the two-year COVID hiatus.
Without lifeguards who know the park and the rules and regulations — and returners who would need to get recertified — they’re starting from scratch.
“That could be a contributing factor,” he said. “There’s a whole training and certification schedule.”
Fandel concurred, relating that the YMCA often struggles to find candidates who are able to handle the physical and mental strain.
“It’s a lot of physical fitness requirements, and then on top of that, just the mental ability to be able to make quick decisions you know, split-second decisions that could be the difference between whether someone survives or not,” Fandel said.
“Finding candidates with both the mental and the physical requirements has been really challenging, because you might find someone who’s got the physical fitness components, but maybe not the best decision-making skills and then you might have somebody who is really, really smart, but maybe not there with the physical requirements,” she added. “So that’s a big part of the challenge that I have seen.”
Importance of pools
For organizations like Westview on the James, ensuring water safety is a top priority.
Westview has eight weeklong sessions for children ages 7 to 14 and half-week sessions for children ages 5 to 9. For a few weeks, Westview has a Care and Connect program that hosts children who have never had the opportunity to attend camp before. In addition, Westview offers a discounted rate for lower-income families, and many churches sponsor campers’ tuition.
“There are a lot of kids who haven’t had swimming experience or been camping for a week before, so there are all sorts of challenges,” Barefoot said. “And then with the water activities, the kids typically need a lot more attention, guidance and help in the water to be comfortable and to be able to participate.”
In 2020, drowning was the second-leading cause of accidental deaths among children under age 17, just behind motor accidents, according to Virginia’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s annual report. Providing free pool access is shown to reduce inequality in physical activity and increase swimming participation, according to a 2019 study in the Journal of Public Health.
“Public pools help level out the playing field and assist in introducing non-traditional groups to aquatics opportunities such as swim teams, diving, swim lessons and other aquatics-based programs,” Jenkins said. “Public pools are important because without them, thousands of people would miss out on life-changing, lifesaving skills that last a lifetime.”
In addition to income-based swimming gaps, there are racial swimming gaps. According to USA Swimming, 70% of African Americans don’t know how to swim. Black people make up 40% of Richmond’s population.
“Our aquatics facilities have a very assorted range of economic demographics that use the pools,” Jenkins said. “Although we do not track income, our pools paint a clear image of an increasingly diverse city of Richmond.”
Clark said Pocahontas isn’t fully sure what to expect this summer. Many people are excited to get back into summer activities, but some are still concerned about COVID. But given the attendance during Memorial Day weekend, he said he thinks it’s going to be a good one.
“We may not have quite the same numbers we’ve had in the past,” he said, “but I think it’s still going to be a great season.” | https://richmond.com/news/local/why-lifeguards-are-in-demand-this-summer-in-richmond-elsewhere/article_aef6d39b-2305-5153-bce1-652bb1c89c15.html | 2022-06-14T00:42:06 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/why-lifeguards-are-in-demand-this-summer-in-richmond-elsewhere/article_aef6d39b-2305-5153-bce1-652bb1c89c15.html |
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) found Samsung was at fault after a spill at the company’s Austin semiconductor facility poured hundreds of thousands of gallons of acidic waste into a tributary of Harris Branch Creek in January.
The initial spill was reported on Jan. 14 and later outlined in a memo to the Austin City Council that said up to 763,000 gallons of acidic waste reached the storm water pond on the Samsung property and impacted the nearby tributary. The memo, sent by the Watershed Protection Department (WPD), said the spill happened over a period as long as 106 days.
In February, additional spills of more than 8 million gallons of partially treated wastewater were reported from the facility following recent rainfall. The discharges happened on two separate occasions days apart and flowed into an unnamed tributary of the Harris Branch Creek, different from the tributary that first received a moderate amount from the release of the acidic waste.
Following an investigation, TCEQ found Samsung failed to prevent an unauthorized discharge into or adjacent to waters. That discharge had “a direct, documented impact on the habitat of the tributary and confluence of Harris Branch by the removal and killing of an aquatic species,” the report said.
“The discharge also stained the underwater surface of the creek bed and the vegetation along the creek channel,” TCEQ found.
TQEC said pH levels between 6.0 and 4.0 will have a detrimental impact on a range of aquatic organisms such as snails, clams, various fish and frogs. A pH of 7 is considered neutral. The sample collected on Jan. 17 at the pond’s outfall, after the spill, had a pH reading of 2.0. A sample collected on Jan. 21 at the same location showed a pH of 1.91.
“Both readings were well below the range where impacts would be expected,” TCEQ said.
A Notice of Enforcement letter was sent to Samsung on June 10, TCEQ said. It asks the company to provide compliance documentation that includes measures taken to correct the discharge and what cleanup efforts were used at the detention pond and the tributary of Harris Creek.
Spill investigators with the WPD met with Samsung staff on Jan. 18 and Jan. 19 and were told that the discharge had stopped, the initial memo said.
According to TCEQ, Samsung had addressed the issue by putting sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) into the tributary to counteract the acidity. The tech company also used lime treatment to neutralize the acidity in the stormwater pond.
When the release was discovered on Jan. 14, Samsung said it took immediate action to stop it and remediate impacted areas. The cause was said to be an undetected equipment failure inside one of its buildings that allowed the wastewater to flow into the site's stormwater system. The company has since reportedly improved monitoring systems and is implementing "strong countermeasures to ensure this does not happen again."
PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/samsung-waste-tceq-report/269-cde9355d-9b7a-4753-82c1-1182b6cb99e5 | 2022-06-14T00:45:05 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/samsung-waste-tceq-report/269-cde9355d-9b7a-4753-82c1-1182b6cb99e5 |
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – Professional wrestler Jeff Hardy faces a DUI charge after being arrested in Volusia County Monday morning, according to jail records.
Hardy, 44, was booked into the Volusia County lock-up at 12:45 p.m. Monday, jail records show.
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Investigators said they received reports of a white Dodge Charger swerving across several lanes of Interstate 4 Monday morning. Troopers caught up with the vehicle as it merged from I-4 onto Interstate 95, records show.
Troopers conducted a traffic stop and said Hardy stopped but struggled to put his car in park and seemed confused during their interaction.
Hardy was put through field sobriety exercises which showed he was unsteady on his feet, records show. Troopers said Hardy submitted to a breathalyzer which showed an alcohol content of higher than .29, more than four times the legal limit.
He faces charges of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (third offense within 10 years), driving on a canceled or suspended license and violating restrictions placed on a driver’s license.
As of this report, Hardy remains locked up in Volusia County.
Hardy rose to fame in the WWE in a tag team with his brother, Matt Hardy, but has since gone on to a successful solo career.
Hardy has had several documented issues with substance abuse throughout his career. Troopers noted in their arrest report that Hardy had been charged with DUI in 2018 and 2019.
He currently wrestles in All Elite Wrestling, AEW, which is based in Jacksonville and owned by Shahid and Tony Khan — the same family that owns the Jacksonville Jaguars football team. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/aew-star-former-wwe-wrestler-jeff-hardy-arrested-on-dui-charge-in-volusia-county-records-show/ | 2022-06-14T00:50:53 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/aew-star-former-wwe-wrestler-jeff-hardy-arrested-on-dui-charge-in-volusia-county-records-show/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – It’s been just over two weeks since the governor signed an insurance bill into law, but consumers tell News 6 that not every insurance agent is up to speed on what the law contains.
Sheila Guzman said every year her anxiety starts when it’s time for her property insurance to renew, and this year is no different.
“Because I don’t know what to expect,” Guzman said.
According to her statements, in 2020 her premium was $815. In 2021, it jumped to $1500, and if she chooses to renew this year, it will be nearly $4,000.
“I couldn’t believe it,” Guzman said. “I mean, I had to re-read the letter. I thought they had made a mistake.”
[Click here to find all of News 6′s coverage of Florida’s property insurance crisis]
It was no mistake and the letter that came along with the statement confirmed it.
“Many of our customers have received or will receive substantial premium increases with their latest renewal offer,” according to the letter.
“We’ve seen increases throughout the years, but never this much,” Guzman said.
Guzman is like so many Floridians, faced with rising property insurance rates and looking for relief after lawmakers passed a new law to address the problem during a special legislative session.
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When she started looking for alternative insurance, she said she didn’t believe insurance agents were up to speed on the legislation that was passed.
“Because I’ve heard them say, ‘We have no word yet and this is what we have’ and what they have is not what was discussed in the session,” Guzman said.
Her roof was replaced in April of 2009, according to a roof replacement contract, which makes it 13 years old.
Agents have told Guzman that insurers won’t write her a policy because of the age of her roof, according to Guzman.
But Senate Bill 2-D, which took effect two weeks ago, prohibits insurers from not writing policies for homeowners with roofs “less than 15 years old solely because of the age of the roof,” according to the law.
Paul Handerhan is the president of the Federal Association for Insurance Reform, FAIR.
There typically is some time of confusion where people have to figure out what the law says when new legislation is passed, according to Haderhan.
“These people are busy running their businesses every single day, they probably haven’t read the bills,” Handerhan said.
While the Florida Association of Insurance Agents tracks legislation, there are over 100,000 insurance agents across the state, and all of the information may not have trickled down to each agent, according to Handerhan.
“It’s very common that once legislation is passed, most people who don’t follow that legislation really don’t know what’s passed,” Handerhan said. “They don’t know how it impacts their local businesses, and I’m sympathetic to that, but when the law becomes the law you have to follow the law.”
If you’re looking for insurance right now, make sure you are familiar with the law. If you believe the agent is not familiar with the new law, have them double-check.
Long term, if an agent gives you bad information, and it impacts you adversely, you could file an errors and omissions claim.
Read the full text of SB 2-D below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/agents-may-not-know-all-aspects-of-floridas-news-property-insurance-law-consumers-say/ | 2022-06-14T00:50:59 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/agents-may-not-know-all-aspects-of-floridas-news-property-insurance-law-consumers-say/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – Two-day or not two-day? That is the question as Orlando creative minds wonder whether to gear up for a race against time.
Starting in August, Central Florida-based digital media school F.I.R.S.T. Institute is challenging local filmmakers to the 48 Hour Film Project Orlando.
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That’s right. Aspiring and established moviemakers will only have from Aug. 26-28 to write, shoot and edit their short films for a chance to compete against others in Los Angeles’ Filmapalooza 2023 and even Cannes Film Festival’s 2023 Short Film Corner.
“This partnership for us aligns perfectly,” F.I.R.S.T. Institute Managing Partner Alan Forbes said in a news release. “The two producers of the event, Christina and Nando are F.I.R.S.T. Institute graduates, making this a full-circle moment for us!”
Registration for the competition opens June 21 and the cost per team to enter varies, starting at $148 for early bird entries through Aug. 1, $168 for regular entries through Aug. 16, and $188 for late entries through Aug. 26, the day the contest begins.
“Here at F.I.R.S.T., we are always looking for partnerships that make sense for us. This was one of those partnerships. We are proud to be partnering with an event that highlights some of Orlando’s top talent when it comes to film,” Donney Smith, managing partner of F.I.R.S.T. Institute, said in a news release.
For more information, visit their website and check for updates on their Facebook page. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/calling-all-creatives-orlando-school-invites-moviemakers-to-compete-in-48-hour-film-project/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:06 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/calling-all-creatives-orlando-school-invites-moviemakers-to-compete-in-48-hour-film-project/ |
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – Officials with the City of Casselberry broke ground Monday on the site of a new police headquarters.
The 26,000 square-foot facility is being built across from the Seminole County Tax Collector’s Office on Wilshire Boulevard.
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“It’s a leap forward for our city,” City Manager Randy Newlon said. “We’ll be moving somewhere that’s bigger (and) state of the art. Capacity for expansion still.”
At a cost of around $12 million, the facility will bring upgrades in technology and space for evidence over the existing police headquarters, which was built in 1996.
“One of the biggest highlights is our enhanced crime scene processing capabilities that our current facility lacks” Police Chief Larry Krantz said.
The new headquarters will also be the first phase in creating a new public safety complex, which will include a Seminole County fire station.
“That will be coming probably in the next year,” Newlon said. “It will be a replacement for fire station 25. The old one that’s on Red Bug (Lake) Road.”
City leaders said the complex is being built in a more central location to better serve a community that’s seen a population boom over the last couple decades.
“If you ‘ve been around Central Florida for any length of time, you can see what the difference is in the growth in the potential that Casselberry has,” Krantz said.
Construction on the new police headquarters is expected to take about 12 months and the facility is expected to open in summer 2023. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/casselberry-breaks-ground-on-new-police-headquarters/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:12 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/casselberry-breaks-ground-on-new-police-headquarters/ |
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – A Flagler County school bus driver accused of driving drunk with 40 middle school students admitted he arrived at his court hearing impaired Monday upon being questioned by the judge.
The judge said 60-year-old Mark Michael McNeil’s case was “in danger of moving forward” as McNeil appeared to be impaired in court.
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“You know what? I am impaired,” McNeil told the judge after being asked to get tested.
Mark McNeil, the former Flagler County school bus driver who was arrested for driving 40+ students drunk, was in court for a plea hearing today but was taken into custody instead for testing - the judge believes he was impaired in court & he admitted he was. @news6wkmg pic.twitter.com/kNZtgXC4rC
— Molly Reed (@Mollyreednews) June 13, 2022
He was initially arrested on Feb. 10 after a Flagler County school district employee chased him down his route and stopped him before alerting the sheriff’s office.
Deputies said the Ormond Beach driver had picked up approximately 40 students from the middle school and proceeded with his afternoon route in a bus not assigned to him.
According to a probable cause affidavit, McNeil was observed smelling like alcohol by a Buddy Taylor Middle School employee around 1 p.m. The employee then reported it about an hour later to the director of transportation in the Flagler school district, Dontarrious Rowns.
McNeil ignored multiple attempts by the school transportation’s to contact him via radio as he dropped off students at their stops, the affidavit shows. According to investigators, McNeil’s boss eventually found him along his route near the intersection of Karas Trail and Karat Path when he “exited the bus and fell to the ground complaining he couldn’t breathe.” Flagler County firefighters responded and took McNeil to a local hospital, where he was met with and arrested by deputies, who detected a strong odor of alcohol on his breath.
During his arrest, McNeil can be heard on a deputy’s body camera yelling at deputies.
Upon conducting a breath sample test at the Flagler County jail, investigators determined McNeil had a blood alcohol level of .32 and .31, which is four times the legal limit in Florida.
The court hearing took place at 1:30 p.m.
McNeil is being held on no bond at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Jail. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/flagler-county-school-bus-driver-accused-of-driving-drunk-with-students-on-board-to-appear-in-court/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:19 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/flagler-county-school-bus-driver-accused-of-driving-drunk-with-students-on-board-to-appear-in-court/ |
MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – Friday’s lightning bolt on Via Salerno Court in Merritt Island set a palm tree on fire, knocked out A/C and three televisions at one house and sent three girls to the hospital.
Three days later, one girl is still fighting for her life, still unresponsive, according to close friends.
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Neighbor Jemali Bryan ran outside in horror after he heard the deafening crack of thunder and discovered his neighbor and her friends on the ground.
“Her skin color was turning purple, her mouth was burned,” Bryan said.
Bryan called 911 and said he stayed on the phone with the dispatcher, relaying instructions to the girls on how to do CPR on their friend.
Friends of the girl who was injured the worst, identified as Lori, created a Gofundme page that has already brought in more than $6,000 in donations from more than 100 people.
The other two girls with Lori were up and walking after the lightning strike that seemed to come out of nowhere.
Bryan said the girls had been outside in the cul-de-sac for most of the day and were walking to the pond in the backyard when the bolt struck.
“It was just really dark — really, really dark,” Bryan said. “It was rumbling a little bit, but then it stopped.”
News 6 Chief Meteorologist Tom Sorrells said most deadly lightning strikes in Florida happen before or after the storm.
“The problem with lightning is more people are killed by the approaching storm and the storm that is leaving than at the height of the storm,” Sorrells said. “Because during the height of the storm people go to take cover. When the storm is approaching, they don’t usually take cover for the first flash, they think that they have time, and they wait a while. But if you’re hearing rumblings of thunder, the truth is you have to take cover for at least half an hour.”
Sorrells said Florida leads the nation in deaths from lightning, averaging about 10 per year.
“I think a lot of trouble is they don’t hear the rumble for four-to-five minutes. They think it’s over. They go out,” Sorrells said. “You have to give it 30 minutes after the last time you heard the thunder before you’re safe to go outside.” | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/girl-struck-by-lightning-fights-for-her-life/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:25 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/girl-struck-by-lightning-fights-for-her-life/ |
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A woman from Lake County claimed a $1 million prize from a scratch-off ticket at the Florida Lottery headquarters on Monday, according to a news release.
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Kimberly Elbers, 58, chose to receive her winnings as a one-time payment of $820,000. Elbers bought her 500X THE CASH scratch-off game at Publix, which will receive $2,000 for selling the winning ticket, according to the Florida Lottery.
The $50 game features a top prize of $25 million, the largest ever offered on a Florida scratch-off game, according to a press release. The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 4.5 with the best odds to become an instant millionaire, the Florida Lottery said.
The Florida Lottery games have paid more than $80.5 billion in prizes and made more than 3,500 people millionaires since 1988, according to the press release. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/lake-county-woman-claims-1m-from-scratch-off-game/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:31 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/lake-county-woman-claims-1m-from-scratch-off-game/ |
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – A man was arrested, accused of a violent burglary at a Merritt Island home that killed a 64-year-old last week, according to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office said on Saturday that deputies arrested Cory Lyle, 49, who is accused of shooting Joseph Hall during a burglary Thursday night.
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The sheriff’s office said deputies responded to the residence on Hunt Drive at approximately 9 p.m., after the man’s roommate returned home, found him and called law enforcement.
Spokesperson Tod Goodyear said Hall and Lyle knew each other.
“It’s believed that the victim had either loaned or let him use some property,” Goodyear said Monday.
Hall was pronounced dead shortly after deputies arrived, the sheriff’s office said.
Investigators said Lyle shot Hall during the burglary.
‘’We heard what sounded like a gunshot,” neighbor Kim Jones recalled.
Jones said Hall was often seen hanging out in the garage of the house where his body was found.
A handyman at the house Monday used a hose to clean the garage.
“Anybody that came by to see him usually hung there too, as well,” Jones said. “It’s pretty sad.”
Lyle faces charges of first-degree felony murder, armed occupied burglary and grand theft of a firearm. He is being held on no bond at the Brevard County jail.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit at 321-633-8413 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-8477 to remain anonymous. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/man-arrested-in-deadly-merritt-island-burglary-deputies-say/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:37 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/man-arrested-in-deadly-merritt-island-burglary-deputies-say/ |
LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – One of six men charged with raping a 14-year-old girl in Lake County in 2018 was found guilty by a jury on Thursday.
Woodrow M. Butler, 63, was found guilty of lewd and lascivious battery in a home in Eustis.
The then-14-year-old ran away from a children’s shelter in Ocala and made her way to Eustis on or about Feb. 14, according to an affidavit.
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“I was a child,” the victim told Butler in an impact statement after the jury found him guilty, according to the Daily Commercial. “I was vulnerable, and you took advantage of me.”
After arriving in Eustis, the girl met a trio outside of a Family Dollar store, whom she “became comfortable with” and walked with them to the house of a man named “Poppie,” according to the affidavit. “Poppie” was identified as John Pedro Quashie in 2018, according to investigators.
The victim was taken to a shed behind Quashie’s home — where he lived with his girlfriend and two children — and she was given MDMA, or “Molly,” records show. After taking the drugs, the girl was first raped by Quashie, investigators said, and then by “Red,” who is Butler. She was passed around from one man to another, according to the affidavit.
According to the affidavit, the victim said that she took more drugs the next day and was taken to the house of a man named “Jermmaine,” whom she said raped her and gave her a drug known as “concrete,” which is heroin cut with fentanyl. The girl said she was then taken back to the shed and raped again, records show.
Between the two days, there was at least one exchange of money, according to the affidavit.
Later, the 14-year-old was taken back to the Family Dollar store, where the manager arranged a ride for her to meet with her ex-boyfriend in Ocoee, investigators said. The ex-boyfriend took her to a hospital in Ocoee, where she was provided a rape kit on Feb. 15, records show.
The DNA in the rape kit. collected on scene by the Ocoee Police Department, matched Quashie’s DNA in May 2018, officers said.
Sentencing was set for June 22 by Circuit Judge Larry Metz. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/man-found-guilty-of-raping-14-year-old-in-lake-county-in-2018/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:44 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/man-found-guilty-of-raping-14-year-old-in-lake-county-in-2018/ |
OCALA, Fla. – Harmful blue-green algal toxins were found in Lake Weir in Ocklawaha, according to a health alert issued by the Florida Department of Health in Marion County.
The health alert was issued on Monday after a water sample was taken June 7 from the center of the lake by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The sample indicated toxins were present.
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Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria common in the state’s freshwater environments, according to a DOH news release. Blue-green algae blooms can impact human health and ecosystems.
The department advised that the public should exercise caution in and around Lake Weir:
- Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible algae bloom. Do not get water in your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or with discolored or smelly water.
- Keep pets away from the area. Waters where there are algae blooms are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present.
- Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins.
- Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish well.
- Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.
A health alert will be lifted when negative toxin analyses are obtained after resampling the bloom or when 30 days have elapsed since the last sampling date.
Symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin should be reported to the Florida Poison Information Center. Call 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist immediately. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/marion-county-health-alert-blue-green-algal-toxins-found-in-lake-weir/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:50 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/marion-county-health-alert-blue-green-algal-toxins-found-in-lake-weir/ |
MARION COUNTY, Fla. – Marion County’s Department of Health is hosting a free drive-thru event Friday evening to provide vaccinations required for students to gain entry to school.
Health officials said the event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on June 17 at Marion County Department of Health’s main office—1801 SE 32nd Ave. in Ocala.
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The Department of Health said they will be providing the Tdap vaccine, which is required for entrance into seventh grade in public or private schools, in addition to booster shots for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, also known as whooping cough.
COVID-19 vaccines will not be provided at this event, according to health officials.
No appointment is necessary, and parents or guardians with questions about what vaccines their children have received may contact the county health department’s immunizations staff or obtain a copy of their shot records by visiting their main office.
For more information about the event or vaccination records, you can contact the Marion County Department of Health by calling 352-629-0137 or emailing Info.Marion@FLHealth.gov. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/marion-county-health-department-to-provide-non-covid-vaccines-for-students-at-free-event/ | 2022-06-14T00:51:56 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/marion-county-health-department-to-provide-non-covid-vaccines-for-students-at-free-event/ |
CRAWFORD, Texas — Crawford ISD announced that it will be putting a Guardian team in place this upcoming school year following the deadly Uvalde school shooting in May.
Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Hall made the announcement in a long letter, where he expressed the Guardian team is in response to the shooting where two teachers and 19 students died at Robb Elementary on May 24.
Hall explained that the Guardian team will consist of members in the district who are trained in active shooter situations. He added that some of them will also be authorized to carry concealed weapons on campus during the day. Their names will remain confidential, he said.
"The unfortunate position that we find ourselves facing in public education is that we have to confront needs other than those of traditional subject areas," Hall wrote. "The fact is, we cannot effectively teach core areas and grade levels without doing everything possible to also try to ensure the safety of our staff and students. Trying to find a response to evil actions is going to be an ongoing task."
The Guardian team will train this summer with local and county law enforcement and undergo response training to emergency or crisis situations or drills.
"As we move forward, our community is going to have to work together to try to stay in front of that next senseless criminal act aimed at our children," he said. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/crawford-isd-implement-guardian-team-some-carry-concealed-weapons-at-schools/500-78774e48-f9ab-4c95-953e-a61440cd601e | 2022-06-14T00:52:00 | 0 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/crawford-isd-implement-guardian-team-some-carry-concealed-weapons-at-schools/500-78774e48-f9ab-4c95-953e-a61440cd601e |
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Palm Beach Circuit Judge Renatha Francis is on the certified list of nominees to fill in a Florida Supreme Court vacancy.
Francis was a justice designate in 2020, but her appointment was nullified in September 2020 on the grounds that she was not a member of the Florida Bar for at least 10 years. This is one of the minimum requirements set by the state constitution.
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Gov. Ron DeSantis received the list of six nominees by the Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission to replace retiring Justice Alan Lawson on Monday.
Lawson, 61, announced in April that he will retire on Aug. 31, more than 10 years before justices’ retirement age of 75.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to the members of the Judicial Nominating Commission for recommending such an exemplary list of strong constitutionalist jurists and practitioners,” DeSantis said in a press release. “I would like to thank the commissioners for their hard work and diligence. They have left me with a difficult choice, but I look forward to appointing our next Supreme Court justice in the coming weeks.”
The list also includes Robert Long and Adam Tanenbaum, judges on the 1st District Court of Appeal; Anne-Leigh Gaylord More, Hillsborough County circuit judge; Meredith Sasso, judge on the 5th District Court of Appeal; and Denise Harle, senior counsel with Alliance Defending Freedom.
If appointed, Francis would be the only Black justice on the Florida Supreme Court. The last Black justice was Peggy A. Quince, who retired in 2019 and was the court’s first Black female chief justice.
Francis would also be the second woman on the state’s high court. Justice Jamie R. Grosshans is currently the only woman.
DeSantis has 60 days to appoint a justice from among the nominees. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/renatha-francis-makes-final-list-for-florida-supreme-court-nominees/ | 2022-06-14T00:52:02 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/renatha-francis-makes-final-list-for-florida-supreme-court-nominees/ |
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – A man believed to be involved in an armed carjacking in Daytona Beach was arrested after an hourslong search in Palm Coast, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office said deputies were in the area of Point Pleasant and Point of Woods drives Monday morning looking for Sterling Orlando Davis-Jones, 18, after being notified by Daytona Beach police to be on the lookout for a stolen pickup truck.
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Deputies found the pickup around 4:15 a.m., but they lost sight of Davis-Jones when he left the vehicle and ran away. Several hours later, a resident called authorities regarding a man walking into his backyard that fit the description of who deputies were looking for.
Davis-Jones ran until he was tackled in a mud-filled ditch by a deputy, the sheriff’s office said. The sheriff’s office said Davis-Jones initially gave a fake name before he was identified.
He faces charges in Flagler County of resisting an officer without violence, providing a false name to law enforcement, violation of probation and felony trespass on a construction site.
The investigation is being turned over to the Daytona Beach Police Department. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/search-for-man-possibly-with-weapon-prompts-law-enforcement-presence-in-palm-coast-deputies-say/ | 2022-06-14T00:52:09 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/search-for-man-possibly-with-weapon-prompts-law-enforcement-presence-in-palm-coast-deputies-say/ |
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – A 14-year-old boy who fell to his death from an Orlando thrill ride in March was nearly 100 pounds over the weight limit of the attraction, according to an autopsy report released by the Orlando medical examiner’s office Monday.
Tyre Sampson died on March 24 when he fell from the drop tower attraction at ICON Park in Orlando while visiting from Missouri on spring break.
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The autopsy report revealed the teen weighed 383 pounds and was just over 6 feet tall. According to a manual produced by the manufacturer of the ride, Funtime Thrill Rides, the maximum weight allowance for Orlando FreeFall is listed as 130 kilograms, or 286 pounds.
The medical examiner found the 14-year-old had numerous fractures, including to the face, skull, ribs and legs. He also had lacerations to his face, stomach, arms and feet. The autopsy report shows the boy’s death was ruled an accident and his cause of death was blunt force trauma.
A lawsuit filed by the attorneys for Sampson’s family is suing Funtime Thrill Rides, the manufacturer; Slingshot Group, the owner-operator in Florida; and ICON Park, which leased the space.
The lawsuit alleges the ride’s operators should have known that riders could be “subject to unreasonably dangerous and foreseeable risks, and that serious injury and death of the occupants in the ride could result.”
[RELATED COVERAGE: New records show Orlando FreeFall has weight limit as state continues to investigate teen’s death | Lawyer for family of teen killed in Orlando drop tower fall reacts to state investigation]
Regardless, the lawsuit points out that the ride did not have seatbelts, which would have cost operators of Orlando FreeFall $22 per seat for a combined $660 for all seats. It also claims the manufacturer and operator of the ride should have made sure:
- There were visible warnings for riders about height and weight restrictions
- The ride should not have been able to function if all riders were not properly secured
- No one should have been able to manipulate or adjust proximity sensors
- A monitoring system should have been installed to make sure all rider restraints were properly secured
- A mechanism should have been installed to stop the ride if a restraint was not properly secured
The lawsuit also points out there were safer alternative designs other than the designs used in Orlando FreeFall that would have reduced the risk of the rider coming out of the seat.
The attorneys for Sampson’s family said legal action was likely after an independent forensic engineering firm hired in the investigation into Sampson’s death found the operator of the thrill ride manually adjusted the sensors in the seat he was in, which made the ride unsafe.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Nikki Fried announced Quest Engineering & Failure Analysis’ findings nearly one month after the boy’s death. The firm’s 14-page report determined the ride itself did not have an electrical or mechanical failure but a manual adjustment in the seat he was in allowed the ride to operate even when it was unsafe.
Fried said the operator of the Orlando FreeFall made “manual adjustments to the ride resulting in it being unsafe” and allowed the harness’ restraint opening to be “almost double” of the normal opening range. The report shows the harness sensor of the seat Sampson was in was “manually loosened, adjusted, and tightened to allow a restraint opening of near 7 inches.”
“As the FDACS investigation remains ongoing, the Department will not be commenting further at this time beyond what has been previously released,” FDACS said in a statement to News 6 on Monday. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/teen-who-fatally-fell-from-orlando-drop-tower-nearly-100-pounds-over-limit-autopsy-report-shows/ | 2022-06-14T00:52:16 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/teen-who-fatally-fell-from-orlando-drop-tower-nearly-100-pounds-over-limit-autopsy-report-shows/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – A University of Central Florida nonprofit, clinical research center and trauma treatment clinic received $1.4 million to expand its peer support and suicide prevention training for first responders.
UCF RESTORES is one of only six regional support centers in Florida offering free resources to first responders in need, according to a news release. The support center was granted the First Responder Regional Support Center Grant by the Florida Department of Children and Families.
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At the support center, 66% of participants with combat-related PTSD and 76% of first responders no longer meet the diagnostic criteria for PTSD following treatment, according to the center’s website. UCF RESTORES was established to change the way post-traumatic stress disorder and other trauma-related concerns are understood, diagnosed and treated.
UCF RESTORES was also awarded an additional $270,000 to work with the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and build a statewide mental health wellness toolkit for first responders.
Three resources will be provided by the support center to enhance the behavioral health of first responders and their families:
- Peer support training focused on mental health and suicide prevention
- A large network of clinicians providing free training on first responder culture and treatments that work for PTSD
- Three strategic summits hosted to assist in the development of comprehensive and local behavioral health services for first responders and their families
Florida lost 3,427 lives to suicide in 2019, and research indicates that suicide-related thoughts and behaviors are high among first responders, according to the FDCF’s First Responder Suicide Deterrence Task Force 2021 Annual Report.
According to Chief Doug Riley of the Lakeland Fire Department, UCF RESTORES has been an incredible resource to help firefighters with education about trauma treatment options and peer support training.
“Firefighters protect themselves with the necessary gear and equipment,” Riley said in a news release. “They train to be able to handle the physical requirements of the job, but they don’t have enough training and education for their mental health.” | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/ucf-nonprofit-receives-14m-to-expand-services-for-first-responders/ | 2022-06-14T00:52:22 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/ucf-nonprofit-receives-14m-to-expand-services-for-first-responders/ |
Volusia County, Fla. – The Volusia County school district will increase its wages for school employees for the 2022-23 school year, according to a press release.
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The school district will start giving its employees $15 an hour starting July 1, three months earlier than required by law, according to the district.
This comes after the school district signed memorandums of understanding with two unions, the Volusia United Educators and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/volusia-county-school-district-to-increase-its-school-employees-wages/ | 2022-06-14T00:52:28 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/06/13/volusia-county-school-district-to-increase-its-school-employees-wages/ |
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