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City pushes ahead with spring paving without Community Crossing grant
MUNCIE, Ind. – A year ago the City of Muncie celebrated with Gov. Eric Holcomb, who came to town to announce a $1 million Community Crossings grant from the state to pave streets in the city.
This spring, due to an incomplete project from a previous Community Crossing grant, City Engineer Adam Leach says Muncie did not receive any Community Crossing funding.
More:Riverside Avenue Trail on track to finish in summer of '23, paving to start this week
Work at Riverside Avenue and Jackson Street by DC Paving of Indianapolis is funded through a past Community Crossing grant and has not been completed due to ongoing utility work along Riverside Avenue, Leach said.
Riverside has been undergoing extensive work that include installation of a walking trail, resurfacing and drainage work between Tillotson Avenue and Jackson.
Mayor Dan Ridenour said the contractor expects the utility work that delayed them to be finished soon.
What caused the delay?
The Indiana Department of Transportation confirmed the delay could have disqualified Muncie from receiving any money in the most recent round of matching grants. INDOT spokesman Kyleigh Cramer said that under grant rules, new money cannot be awarded until money awarded from past years has been spent.
But the city is forging ahead with paving plans, Leach said, with money the city has available to do the work in spring and summer.
Ridenour said the city is not billed for road work until it's completed and the city plans to apply for the July round of Community Crossing grants and be qualified to receive the money. Leach said the Muncie will ask for the top limit of $1 million in July.
"If the roadwork gets billed before we get the round two of money," Ridenour said, We will use EDIT (Economic Development Income Tax) cash and ARP (American Rescue Plan) cash or from street funds we put back to pay for 2024 McGalliard Road paving (grant) match."
Paving work planned in Muncie
The city's capital plans calls for paving work on various roads this year, including: Robinwood Drive; Pettigrew Drive; Meadowlark Lane; Cole Street; South Sycamore Street; 10th Street; Jersey Avenue; Ball Avenue; Glenwood Avenue; 14th Street; Shady Lane; Woodway Drive; Russey Street; and Linden Street.
More:Muncie gets $1 million match from state to pave streets this year
Meanwhile, Delaware County received $640,090 in the spring 2023 Community Crossing awards to complete bridge work.
Angie Moyer, project director and administrator for Delaware County, said the county plans to use the money to replace a bridge on Delaware County Road 650-E, between county roads 350-N and 400-N.
Delaware County Highway Superintendent Tommie Humbert said he plans to present his paving details to the Delaware County Council.
He said that in the fall the state awarded a Community Crossing grant of $730,863 that he plans to use for paving this summer.
Pending county council approval, Humbert said he hopes to pave Walnut Street between Delaware County Road 900-N and Eaton-Wheeling Pike; Black Cemetery Road between Ind. 67 and Gregory Road; County Road 550-E between Gregory Road and Eaton-Wheeling Pike; County Road 800-W between Ind. 67 and County Road 700-S and Proctor Road between 360-S and 400-S.
All together, the paving plan involves about six miles of county roads, Humbert said. | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/city-pushes-ahead-with-spring-paving-without-community-crossing-grant/70135292007/ | 2023-05-03T18:33:29 | 1 | https://www.thestarpress.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/city-pushes-ahead-with-spring-paving-without-community-crossing-grant/70135292007/ |
GLASSBORO — State officials and industry representatives emphasized the potential of a new offshore wind industry to bring thousands of jobs to the state and the need for new energy sources in the face of a changing climate in close to equal measure at an offshore wind technology conference Wednesday at Rowan University.
“It depends on who you’re speaking with. Sometimes you lead with the climate, sometimes you lead with jobs,” said Doug Copeland, development manager with Atlantic Shores, while participating in a panel discussion at the morning conference.
The Steve Sweeney Center for Public Policy at the school sponsored the event. In his remarks at the start of the event, Sweeney, the former state Senate president, called out several Republican politicians, including U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-2nd, a former wind power supporter and former Democrat who has become a vocal critic of offshore wind plans.
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Many shore town representatives, including some Democrats and more Republicans, have called for a moratorium on offshore wind work after multiple dead whales washed ashore over the winter.
Federal officials have said there is no evidence connecting the marine mammal deaths and survey work for offshore wind, but many in the beach communities remain skeptical.
Speakers said the opposition is about politics, not about protecting marine life. Sweeney said politics impacts public policy. He and other speakers said warming oceans and a changing climate are the biggest threat to life in the oceans.
ATLANTIC CITY — The application period is open for 21 slots in a Wind Power Ready training p…
“Global warming is real,” he said. “We all care about whales and dolphins. But there’s a reason, and it’s not offshore wind, that’s changing what’s happening here.”
While the Rowan event was happening, state legislative Republicans held a public hearing detailing their opposition to offshore wind energy.
“We held a very informative hearing this morning on whales and wind farms,” said State Senator Anthony Bucco, R- Morris, after the Republican lead hearing. “It’s clear from the testimony we received that the wind farm projects were rushed, there’s data demonstrating real harm to marine life, and shore towns and fisheries will face serious economic impacts that have been completely ignored. We believe it makes a lot of sense to put a pause on these projects to investigate the legitimate concerns that were raised today in greater depth.”
Gov. Phil Murphy has put offshore wind power at the forefront of his energy policy, moving toward getting a significant portion of the state’s electricity from offshore turbines.
At the Wednesday conference, speakers argued warming ocean water and other climate change impacts were leading to the behavioral changes that put more whales and marine mammals in shipping lanes, leading to the high-profile whale deaths.
“I don’t think there is a debate. I think there is a swirl of misinformation,” said Shawn LaTourette, commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. He said there is a responsibility to combat misinformation.
LaTourette said New Jersey already experiences climate change impacts, with hotter summers, stronger storms, more coastal flooding and other problems.
A panel of Democratic elected officials and environmental groups says climate change, spurred by the burning of fossil fuels, is the greatest danger to the world's oceans and marine life. Speaking in Long Branch, New Jersey as a half-dozen dolphins frolicked in the ocean behind them, U.S. Senator Cory Booker, Congressman Frank Pallone and others rejected claims from some that site preparation work for offshore wind power projects is killing whales. Numerous federal and state agencies say there is no link between the two. They criticized an energy bill being pushed by House Republicans to incentivize oil and gas production. Two New Jersey Republicans advocating a pause in wind farm preparation did not respond to requests for comment Monday.
Sweeney and other speakers said New Jersey was also in position to uniquely benefit from offshore wind.
A local industry supplying materials to offshore wind projects in the state, and in Delaware, New York and beyond, could mean thousands of good jobs, Sweeney said.
Citing his background as an iron worker, Sweeney said the monopods and turbine blades are enormous, and it will make sense for industry to produce them close to where they will be installed rather than shipping from Europe or other overseas sources.
Speakers cited a wind port in Salem County, a massive project dedicated to offshore wind projects.
Rowan President Ali Houshmand said the school and others would train a new workforce for a new industry, with speakers touting a transformational economic potential from offshore wind, even as shore community officials publicly worry about the potential harm to a multibillion-dollar beach tourism industry.
At the conference, the picture painted was not entirely rosy.
The state Department of Environmental Protection and Board of Public Utilities on Wednesday …
Guiseppe Palmese, dean of the College of Engineering at Rowan, said the industry has to think ahead and prepare for multiple issues, including long-term planning to make turbine materials that make structural and economic sense.
“Larger turbines are on their way,” Palmese said. The end of the useful life of the offshore wind structures must be part of the consideration from the start of the projects, he said. Blades could be 100 meters long and weigh 50 tons.
The amount of wind power under consideration would require about 140 miles of turbine blade material.
“So I could take one lane of the New Jersey Turnpike, and run all the way to the top, north to south, and fill it all up with windmill blades, and have enough left over to go to the Atlantic City Expressway all the way to the shore, Palmese said. That would represent 250 million pounds of material.
He said innovation is needed to make the materials recyclable.
The industry, and the university, will need to study the environmental impact of offshore wind, and its economic impact, he said, and how a new energy source can enter the power grid in a sustainable manner. There may also be national security concerns that must be considered.
ATLANTIC CITY — The truck traffic to the site of Ørsted’s operations and maintenance hub, go…
Palmese said the university will be part of preparing a workforce for the new industry, from technical credentials to master’s degrees.
Representatives of Ocean Wind and Atlantic Shores, the two projects furthest along in the regulatory process, participated in the conference. Madeline Urbish, the head of government affairs for Ørsted, the energy company that owns Ocean Wind, said work on shore on that project could begin by the end of the year.
The need for the projects grows out of climate change, LaTourette said, adding the projects will help the environment, public health and the economy.
“We have such a dire climate experience here,” LaTourette said. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/jobs-climate-the-focus-of-offshore-wind-conference/article_8524c6d8-e9c9-11ed-8eb8-e704f458282d.html | 2023-05-03T18:36:26 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/jobs-climate-the-focus-of-offshore-wind-conference/article_8524c6d8-e9c9-11ed-8eb8-e704f458282d.html |
LEESBURG, Fla. – Zachery Waldo, the man who left his DUI manslaughter trial for lunch and didn’t return, was captured on Wednesday by a U.S. Marshal’s task force, according to the Leesburg Police Department.
Police said Waldo was taken into custody in Mount Dora, but no other details of the arrest have been released yet.
In March, Waldo was on trial accused of DUI manslaughter in a 2019 fatal crash in Leesburg that killed three people, including a teen. The Christmas Eve crash killed Christopher Smith, Jessica Smith and their 13-year-old daughter, Hailey.
Great job by LCSO Deputy Burns and the US Marshal's Task Force in the capture of Zachery Waldo this morning. We can only hope this provides some level of closure and justice for the family and friends of the Smith family. pic.twitter.com/dzS8yuuG6X
— Leesburg Police (@LeesburgPolice1) May 3, 2023
Police said he went to lunch during the trial and never returned.
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According to police, Waldo, who was out on bond at the time, has fled from law enforcement in the past and has a history of committing battery against law enforcement.
A U.S. Marshal’s task force joined Lake County Sheriff’s Office in the search for Waldo.
Despite being on the run at the time, officials announced last week that Waldo received a life term in the DUI manslaughter case. He was sentenced to 35 years, 10 months and 15 days in prison for the crash
This is a developing story. Check back with News 6 for the latest updates.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/florida-man-who-ran-away-during-dui-manslaughter-trial-captured/ | 2023-05-03T18:37:44 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/florida-man-who-ran-away-during-dui-manslaughter-trial-captured/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – The Florida House unanimously passed a bill Wednesday named after the teen who fell to his death from the Orlando FreeFall attraction over a year ago.
Tyre Sampson, 14, was riding the thrill ride, known as the world’s tallest free-standing drop tower, on March 24, 2022, when he slipped from his seat as the ride was plummeting down. The ride, which took guests up into the air before dropping over 400 feet at 70 mph, has since been dismantled.
The Tyre Sampson Act, which was introduced in February 2023 by State Sen. Geraldine Thompson, calls for changes to amusement rides across the state in an effort to promote safety and prevent a tragedy like this from happening again.
The legislation includes requirements for a seat belt and harness for any ride that goes over 100 feet and for all rides to be regularly commissioned, certified and tested by a separate regulatory agency.
[RELATED: Tyre Sampson Act: Fla. lawmakers to discuss bill named for teen who fatally fell from Orlando FreeFall | Evidence hearing set in lawsuit filed after teen fatally fell from Orlando FreeFall]
In addition, amusement ride operators would have a certain timeframe to report if there was an accident and the state could reserve the right to impound it if necessary.
This comes nearly two months after a Florida Senate committee approved the attractions safety bill.
Sampson’s mom released a statement Wednesday thanking lawmakers for passing the bill.
“My number one goal as Tyre’s mother is to make sure this horrific tragedy never repeats itself. I do not want any mother to go through what I have endured over the past year. I want to thank the Florida legislature, Senator Thompson and Representative Bracy for passing the Tyre Sampson Bill. I urge Florida’s Governor to sign this bill which will make all amusement rides safer for children.”
Nekia Dodd, Tyre Sampson's mother
This also comes as an evidence hearing Wednesday was canceled for lawyers of Sampson’s family in the lawsuit against the Orlando FreeFall operators.
The family previously reached a settlement in March with both ICON Park and the company that operates the ride, however, there are nearly another dozen defendants in the lawsuit, including the manufacturer and installers.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/house-passes-tyre-sampson-act-named-for-teen-who-fatally-fell-from-orlando-freefall/ | 2023-05-03T18:37:50 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/house-passes-tyre-sampson-act-named-for-teen-who-fatally-fell-from-orlando-freefall/ |
BRISTOL, Tenn./Va. (WJHL) – Music writers with Southern Living magazine ranked the South’s top music festivals last month, naming Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion among national names like Austin City Limits and Bonnaroo.
The April 22 article titled “The South’s Best Music Festivals You Should Attend” named 20 top festivals that span a wide variety of genres. Coming in at 14th, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion was described as a celebration of the city’s musical heritage and modern impact.
“On State Street in Bristol’s historic downtown, you’ll find 20 indoor venues and outdoor stages hosting over 100 artists that showcase the best of Appalachian music and beyond,” the article said.
Austin City Limits took the list’s top spot for its wide offerings and two-weekend structure, and Bonnaroo was awarded second place for its sprawling musical coverage.
This year’s BR&R Reunion lineup featured headliners like Nickel Creek, 49 Winchester, Amythyst Kiah and Sierra Hull among dozens of other acts. You can find the full slate of performances online. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/bristol-rhythm-roots-reunion-named-among-best-music-festivals-in-the-south/ | 2023-05-03T18:37:53 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/bristol-rhythm-roots-reunion-named-among-best-music-festivals-in-the-south/ |
OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – A parent is accused of punching an umpire in the head during a high school baseball game near Kissimmee, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office said the parent, whose name has not been released, attacked the umpire at Liberty High School on April 18.
The parent is facing charges of battery on a sports official and disruption of a school function.
No other information has been released.
Sheriff Marcos Lopez will be providing an update at 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday. News 6 will be streaming his remarks live at the top of this story.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/parent-punches-umpire-in-head-during-high-school-baseball-game-near-kissimmee-deputies-say/ | 2023-05-03T18:37:57 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/parent-punches-umpire-in-head-during-high-school-baseball-game-near-kissimmee-deputies-say/ |
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday announced its search for a 17-year-old girl missing out of Deltona.
McKynzie Jo Kelley left her Deltona home after an argument and may be in danger, the sheriff’s office said in a Facebook post.
Kelley is 5 feet, 4 inches tall with hazel eyes and hair that’s currently blonde. She has two nose piercings, as well as a neck tattoo superimposed on the photo at the top of this story.
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Kelley may be in the Jacksonville area, which could include Fleming Island, Orange Park, Middleburg and Green Cove Springs — all located in Clay County — or southern Jacksonville in Duval County, according to the post.
Anyone who sees Kelley or knows of her whereabouts is urged to call 911.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/volusia-deputies-search-for-17-year-old-girl-missing-out-of-deltona/ | 2023-05-03T18:38:03 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/volusia-deputies-search-for-17-year-old-girl-missing-out-of-deltona/ |
The 2023 construction season on the Metra commuter railroad began a month ago and includes a variety of projects on its Electric Line serving the south suburbs and shared with the South Shore Line into the city.
Projects undertaken by Metra and its railroad and municipal partners are focused on its stations and will continue through the fall, the railroad said this week.
Metra said $119.5 million — nearly a quarter of its annual capital spending — will go toward rebuilding and renewing station facilities as part of a five-year plan that includes improvement projects for about 20% of Metra’s stations, now numbering 242 but growing to 244 soon.
“Clean, modern, and accessible passenger facilities are an integral part of a good customer experience and create a welcoming gateway to a community,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski in the railroad's announcement of the construction program. “For that reason, our capital plans over the next several years are focused on investments in stations across the Metra system.”
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Projects on the Electric Line are part of the Metra Electric Community Initiative, a multiyear plan to improve 13 stations, the railroad said. Work is continuing this year at the 147th Street Station and scheduled to start at the Homewood, 95th, 79th, 87th, 103rd and Millennium (South Water entrance) stations. Plans are to renew station facilities and focus on accessibility features, such as elevators, Metra said.
Metra is also planning to replace the existing wooden platforms at the 83rd Street and 67th Street stations and the stairs and retaining walls at 27th Street. Major station projects are also being planned in 2024 for the Van Buren, 59th-60th St./University of Chicago, 111th Street/Pullman and Harvey stations.
Work will also be done on track and signal systems, with replacement of nearly 210,000 ties, at least 7,500 feet of rail, and 24 crossings in 2023, according to Metra.
"We also plan two separate projects to test new technologies that monitor the performance of safety equipment at rail crossings, with the goal of using that data to proactively identify maintenance needs," Metra said in the program announcement.
Specific projects on the Metra Electric Line, all in Chicago unless otherwise noted, are:
Station improvements
• 147th Street/Sibley in Harvey, ongoing work to rehabilitate station
• Homewood station, rehabilitation of facilities and access tunnel
• Millennium Station South Water Street, rehabilitation of the station facilities and access points
• 79th Street, Chatham, rehabilitation of station and platforms
• 87th Street, Woodruff, rehabilitation of station and platforms
• 95th Street, Chicago State University, rehabilitation of station and platforms
• 103rd Street, Rosemoor Station, rehabilitation of station and platforms
• 83rd Street, platform replacement
• 67th Street, platform replacement
• 27th Street, stair and retaining wall repairs
Crossing replacements
• 78th Street (South Chicago Branch)
• Jeffrey Boulevard (South Chicago Branch)
• Stewart Avenue (Blue Island Branch)
• Wallace Avenue (Blue Island Branch)
Track projects
• Replacement of 38,000 ties between Adams Street and 111th Street
• Replacement of 900 ties between Randolph Street and 11th Place in Chicago
• Replacement of 2,000 feet of rail to fix worn curves at the north end of McCormick Place
Bridges
• Ongoing project to repair bridge columns
Signal/communications
• Install remote monitoring system at 14 grade crossings along the South Chicago Branch to detect anomalies and repair critical safety devices
Metra said that most work will be performed during off-peak hours and on weekends, and that it will make schedule adjustments to accommodate construction as needed. The construction schedules will be posted on its website, metra.com. | https://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/metra-details-2023-construction-program/article_3c243744-e9be-11ed-8d6c-6b44c693fbf3.html | 2023-05-03T18:40:55 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/metra-details-2023-construction-program/article_3c243744-e9be-11ed-8d6c-6b44c693fbf3.html |
A plan to reduce bullying in Indiana schools, championed by state Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, is set to take effect before classes resume following summer break.
The Indiana General Assembly last month gave final approval to House Enrolled Act 1483 , sending it with near-unanimous support to Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb to be signed into law.
The legislation requires all Indiana school corporations to update their discipline rules after July 1 to include provisions prioritizing the safety of bullying victims, as well as to ensure bullying incidents are reported to the parents of the victim and the alleged perpetrator no more than five business days following the incident, instead of in merely an "expedited" manner.
Here's how you can tell if your child is being bullied — or if they're the ones doing the bullying. The following are potential indicators from stopbullying.gov . Not all children being bullied show warning signs, and they can also point to other issues, like depression or substance abuse. Many of these indicators are for school-aged children, but bullying can happen to anyone of any age.
It also permits school corporations to include in their discipline rules specific guidelines for determining whether a bullying incident warrants the forced transfer of the victim or the alleged perpetrator to a different school in the district.
"As an educator and a mentor to young people in my district, it's heartbreaking to hear about the things children go through in school. Oftentimes, parents don't know their child is being bullied, or that their child is a bully. This legislation will change that by requiring schools to contact both sets of parents, and will hopefully lead to conversations within families that will stop the bullying," Smith said.
"In the event bullying continues, this bill also provides avenues for victims or perpetrators to be separated. This bill is the culmination of five years of work on my part, and I'm glad to see that it's finally come to fruition," he added.
Riding Shotgun with the Gary Fire Department
Smith said he was inspired to push for anti-bullying legislation this year following the March 6 death by suicide of Terry Badger III, a 13-year-old seventh grader in Covington, Indiana, who said bullying at his middle school led him to end his life.
"Too often, young people take their own lives because they're being bullied. They feel like there's no escape," Smith said. "There is nothing we can do bring this young man back or ease the pain his family feels in his absence, but my hope is that this legislation will prevent more children from feeling suicide is their only way out."
Records show every lawmaker of both political parties in the House and the Senate supported the legislation, except Republican state Sens. Gary Byrne of Byrneville, Chip Perfect of Lawrenceburg, and Jim Tomes of Wadesville.
Gallery: Take a virtual tour of Indiana's state parks
Brown County State Park
Location: Nashville
Size: 15,776 acres (largest state park)
Opened: 1929
Activities: 12 hiking trails spanning 18 miles; 25 mi. of mountain biking trails; 20 horseback riding trails; hiking; birdwatching; fishing; leafing; cross-county skiing; sledding; ice fishing
Amenities: Abe Martin Lodge and annex, 84 rooms with water park; 86 cabins; modern and primitive campgrounds
DNR description: Nicknamed the "Little Smokies" because of the area's resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains, Brown County encompasses nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges and fog-shrouded ravines. Glaciers from the most recent ice ages stopped short of the "hills o' Brown," but their meltwaters helped create the narrow ridges, steep slopes and deep gullies of Brown County State Park. Indiana's largest park is a traditional fall color hot spot, with nearly 20 miles of tree-lined roads and many scenic vistas overlooking miles of uninterrupted forestland.
Dan Carden
Chain O' Lakes State Park
Location: Albion
Size: 2,718 acres
Opened: 1960
Activities: 13 lakes for boating, canoeing, fishing, swimming; hiking
Amenities: Stanley Schoolhouse Nature Center; boat rental; furnished cabins; primitive campsites
DNR description: This is lake country and a small boater's paradise. Nine connecting lakes will be the center of your adventures at Chain O'Lakes. Paddle through the chain of serene kettle lakes, hike the 10 miles of forested trails, fish the electric-motors-only lakes, stay overnight in a forested hillside family cabin, or visit the park's old one-room schoolhouse nature center. Other facilities available for visitors to enjoy include a campground, beach and picnic shelters.
Dan Carden
Charlestown State Park
Location: Charlestown
Size: 5,100 acres
Opened: 1996
Activities: Hiking; Fishing; Picnicking; Camping; Birdwatching
Amenities: 182 modern and primitive campsites
DNR description: Once a largely undeveloped portion of the Indiana Army Ammunition plant, Charlestown State Park is located in southern Indiana. With scenic vistas of the Fourteenmile Creek valley and the Ohio River and elevation changes of over 200 feet, Charlestown has much to offer the visitor with its rugged hills and deep ravines. While hiking the rugged terrain you will see Devonian fossil outcrops and areas of karst sinkhole topography. Bird watchers will enjoy the 72 species of birds, including bluebirds, black vultures and an occasional bald eagle.
Dan Carden
Clifty Falls State Park
Location: Madison
Size: 1,416 acres
Opened: 1920
Activities: Four waterfalls; hiking; swimming; picnicking; tennis
Amenities: Clifty Inn and Restaurant; nature center
DNR description: The park's waterfalls change moods with the weather and the seasons and can range from roaring plunges to delicate bridal-veil mists to gleaming frozen titans. Winter and spring visits reveal them at their best. The rugged splendor of Clifty Canyon offers exciting year-round hiking and scenery.
Dan Carden
Falls of the Ohio State Park
Location: Clarksville
Size: 165 acres
Opened: 1990
Activities: Hiking; fishing; picnicking; boat launch
Amenities: Interpretative Center
DNR description: Meriwether Lewis and William Clark met at the Falls prior to launching the 1804 Lewis and Clark Expedition to the Pacific Ocean. The park's 386-million-year-old fossil beds are among the largest exposed Devonian fossil beds in the world. The park features a spectacular interpretive center overlooking the fossil beds that reopened in 2016 with completely new exhibits.
Dan Carden
Fort Harrison State Park
Location: Indianapolis
Size: 1,700 acres
Opened: 1996
Activities: Hiking; bicycle trails; golf; fishing; canoeing; dog park; sledding; ice fishing; cross country skiing; recreation buildings; horseback riding
Amenities: 18-hole golf course; inn; restaurant; saddle barn; nature shop; Museum of 20th Century Warfare
DNR description: Landscape and history blend together at this unique setting on the northeast side of Indianapolis. The 1,700-acre park — comprising a portion of the former Fort Benjamin Harrison military base — features walking and jogging trails, picnic sites, fishing access to Fall Creek and two national historic districts. An oasis of green in an urban landscape, Fort Harrison is one of the hidden gems to be found in the state, just minutes from home for many visitors needing contact with nature.
Dan Carden
Harmonie State Park
Location: New Harmony
Size: 3,465 acres
Opened: 1996
Activities: Hiking; bicycle trails; horseback riding; boat launch; fishing; picnicking; swimming
Amenities: 200 modern campsites; youth tent campsites
DNR description: Harmonie State Park is located "on the banks of the Wabash" and a beautiful swimming pool, shady picnic areas, ravines and pristine landscape await you here. Trails for walking, biking and nature hikes will lure you for a visit. Nearby Historic New Harmony honors two unique communities from the early 1800s. The Rappites located here in 1814. They were fleeing from religious persecution and awaiting the impending millennium. In 1824, the Owenites brought many great scientists and philosophers into the area when they purchased the Rappites' holdings.
Dan Carden
Lincoln State Park
Location: Lincoln City
Size: 1,747 acres
Opened: 1932
Activities: Historic sites; hiking; boat launch; picnicking; swimming; fishing
Amenities: Nature center; general store; boat rental; cabins; campsites
DNR description: Discover the boyhood home of the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Among the rolling hills and thick forest, young Lincoln learned many life lessons. Lincoln State Park offers 10 miles of hiking trails, two scenic lakes, and an interpretive center to help you experience early life of settlers in southern Indiana. Tour the Colonel Jones Home, the historic home of the merchant and Civil War officer who employed young Lincoln. The Little Pigeon Creek Baptist Church and Cemetery, located on the property, is where Lincoln’s sister Sarah is buried. Sarah Lincoln Woods Nature Preserve is located in the southernmost portion of the park. A visit to Lincoln State Park is like taking a step back in time to when the land was wild and Lincoln was a boy.
Dan Carden
McCormick's Creek State Park
Location: Spencer
Size: 1,924 acres
Opened: 1916 (oldest state park)
Activities: Hiking; horseback riding; swimming; recreation center; tennis; picnicking; caving
Amenities: Canyon Inn; nature center; saddle barn; cabins; 221 modern and primitive campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Explore the spectacular limestone canyon, flowing creek, and scenic waterfalls that highlight Indiana’s first state park. Hike trails featuring diverse forest trees, spicebush, and native wildflowers, including a trail through Wolf Cave Nature Preserve and an accessible trail at the recently renovated nature center. Experience history as you climb the fire tower, use shelter houses or cross the stone arch bridge created by the Civilian Conservation Corps, or examine the historic Statehouse Quarry near White River, which furnished limestone used for the Indianapolis Statehouse. Relax in the lobby of Canyon Inn, open to all park visitors, or watch birds from the dining room porch. Catch cultural events such as concerts in the park amphitheater or attend the several special events hosted annually at the park. McCormick’s Creek State Park offers active enjoyment through all seasons of the year.
Dan Carden
Mounds State Park
Location: Anderson
Size: 252 acres
Opened: 1930
Activities: Historic sites; hiking; fishing; swimming; picnicking
Amenities: Nature center; gift shop; 75 modern campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Mounds State Park features 10 unique earthworks built by prehistoric Indians known as the Adena-Hopewell people. The largest earthwork, the Great Mound, is believed to have been constructed around 160 B.C. Archaeological surveys indicate the mounds were used as gathering places for religious ceremonies, from where astronomical alignments could be viewed. Naturalist-led hikes and interpretive programs are offered every weekend throughout the year.
Dan Carden
O'Bannon Woods State Park
Location: Corydon
Size: 2,000 acres
Opened: 2004
Activities: Swimming; water slides; hiking; horseback riding; picnicking; fishing; boating;
Amenities: Aquatic center; nature center; cabins; 353 modern and primitive campsites
DNR description: O'Bannon Woods State Park (formerly Wyandotte Woods State Recreation Area) lies in the central and extreme southern part of the state, bordering the Ohio River. It was the location of one of the few African-American Civilian Conservation Corps units. The property also has a uniquely restored, working haypress barn, complete with oxen for power and a pioneer farmstead. Indiana’s first natural and scenic river, Blue River, flows through the state park and forest. The Corydon Capitol State Historic Site is located near the park. Visitors can learn about early Indiana history as they tour the beautiful first state capitol building, built entirely of limestone, and old town square.
Dan Carden
Ouabache State Park
Location: Bluffton
Size: 1,104 acres
Opened: 1962
Activities: Hiking; swimming; fishing; boating; volleyball; paved bicycle trail; tennis; basketball courts; picnicking
Amenities: Nature center; recreation center; campsites
DNR description: Ouabache is difficult to spell, but easy to pronounce. Simply say "Wabash"...just like the river that forms the southwest boundary for the park. This is the French spelling of an Indian word, so don't be surprised to hear some folks call it o-ba-chee. Kunkel Lake offers excellent fishing. During the summer months, a naturalist provides information about the natural wonders of the park. A lodge recreation building is available all year.
Dan Carden
Pokagon State Park
Location: Angola
Size: 1,260 acres
Opened: 1925
Activities: Hiking; swimming; cross country skiing; tobogganing; horseback riding; picnicking; playground; sand volleyball
Amenities: Potawatomi Inn; nature center; toboggan run; boat rental; saddle barn; 273 modern and primitive campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Being one of the state’s original parks, Pokagon features the unique work of the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose members lived and worked at Pokagon from 1934 to 1942. The “boys of the CCC” built the beautiful stone and log structures that dot the park landscape and provide accent to the rolling wooded hills, wetlands and open meadows. Natural lakes created by glaciers that melted 10,000 to 15,000 years ago, highlight Steuben County, which has more lakes than any other Indiana county. The park is framed by Lake James and Snow Lake, which offer abundant opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing and scenic sunsets. Pokagon is also Indiana State Parks’ winter wonderland, with cross-country ski rental, sledding, ice fishing and a twin-track toboggan run.
Dan Carden
Potato Creek State Park
Location: North Liberty
Size: 3,840 acres
Opened: 1977
Activities: Biking; hiking; swimming; boating; fishing; ice fishing; cross-country skiing; wildlife observation; horseback riding; snow tubing
Amenities: Nature center; 3.2 mile paved bike trail; 6.6 mi. mountain bike trail; recreation building; boat/bike rental; 17 cabins; 347 campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Potato Creek is in north-central Indiana about 12 miles southwest of South Bend. The park features a wide array of activities and facilities for year-round enjoyment. A variety of natural habitats await, including the 327-acre Worster Lake, old fields, mature woodlands, restored prairies and diverse wetlands. Each offers unique opportunities for plant and wildlife observation. Native peoples used the area for hunting and fishing. The area’s first people of European descent settled here in the 1830s.
Dan Carden
Prophetstown State Park
Location: Battle Ground
Size: 2,000 acres
Opened: 2004 (newest state park)
Activities: Hiking; bicycling; camping; swimming
Amenities: 2.75 mile hiking trail; 2.4 mile bike trail; aquatic center; 110 campsites
DNR description : Indiana’s newest state park, Prophetstown is located where the Tippecanoe River meets the Wabash near the town of Battle Ground northeast of Lafayette. The park's landscape has been shaped by ice from glaciers, moving water, fire and human hands that helped maintain the vast tall prairie grass. Native American people hunted and lived along the two rivers for thousands of years. The Aquatic Center features a 30-foot tube slide, body flume, lazy river float area, adventure channel, zero-entry pool with play features, and an aquatic activity area with basketball.
Dan Carden
Shades State Park
Location: Waveland
Size: 3,082 acres
Opened: 1947
Activities: Hiking; fishing; picnicking; canoeing
Amenities: Nature preserve; 123 campsites (Apr.-Oct.); youth tent camping
DNR description: Shades State Park is that peaceful place you've sought; a favorite for hikers and canoeists. The beautiful sandstone cliffs overlooking Sugar Creek and numerous shady ravines provide the backdrop for your journey through this nature lover's paradise. Also on the property is Pine Hills Nature Preserve, which affords spectacular topography for those willing to take a fairly long hike.
Dan Carden
Shakamak State Park
Location: Jasonville
Size: 1,766 acres
Opened: 1929
Activities: Swimming; water sliding; boating; fishing; ice fishing; hiking; picnicking; basketball; tennis
Amenities: Nature center; aquatic center; boat launch; cabins; recreation building; boat rental; 174 campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Ready to relax? Head for Shakamak. Three man-made lakes offer 400 acres of water for fishing and boating while a family aquatic center provides swimming fun. About two-thirds of the campsites are in a wooded area, offering cool shade in the summer and beautiful fall colors in autumn. Nearby is a play field area for family fun. A popular feature of the park is the group camp.
Dan Carden
Spring Mill State Park
Location: Mitchell
Size: 1,358 acres
Opened: 1927
Activities: Historic sites; cave tours; hiking; biking; picnicking; swimming; hayrides
Amenities: Spring Mill Inn; pioneer village; Gus Grissom memorial; boat tour; bike rental; 221 modern and primitive campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Spring Mill State Park offers a powerful illustration of the link between the natural and cultural worlds. The water flowing from several cave springs led to the founding of an industrial village in the early 1800s. Pioneer entrepreneurs took advantage of a constant water source that never froze, using it to power several gristmills, a wool mill, a saw mill and a distillery. In turn, pioneer settlers shaped the landscape around the village, clearing land for agriculture and timber.
The park today continues to illustrate how nature shapes us and how we shape our environment. A parcel of virgin timber sits in contrast to regenerated forest, a man-made lake struggles to survive against the in-flow of silt from cave-fed systems and the native flora and fauna face challenges from man’s introduction of new species.
Visitors can explore this story in the park’s four interpretive facilities—the Pioneer Village, Nature Center, Grissom Memorial and Twin Caves Boat Tour—and see it reflected on the landscape as they hike the trails.
Dan Carden
Summit Lake State Park
Location: New Castle
Size: 2,680 acres
Opened: 1988
Activities: Fishing; birdwatching; swimming; ice fishing; boating; hiking; cross-country skiing; picnicking
Amenities: Boat launch; picnic shelters; boat rental; 73 campsites; youth tent camping
DNR description: An expansive view and good fishing beckon you to Summit Lake State Park, near New Castle. Summit Lake has an excellent bird watching and wildlife observation area. The property has always been an important area for waterfowl because of the many low-lying wet meadows and prairies. Migratory species have included rare species like the black tern, bald eagle, sandhill crane, American bittern, least bittern, king rail and osprey. Zeigler Woods, in the southwest corner of the park, is Henry County’s first nature preserve. Zeigler Woods has rich flora and fauna with little evidence of human disturbance.
Dan Carden
Tippecanoe River State Park
Location: Winamac
Size: 2,761 acres
Opened: 1943
Activities: Canoeing; horseback riding; hiking; boating; fishing; picnicking; cross-country skiing
Amenities: Recreation building; cabins; 178 modern and primitive campsites; youth tent camping
DNR description: Attention canoers! Get ready for a relaxing journey as you float down the beautiful Tippecanoe River. You must bring your own canoe or make arrangements with the local canoe livery. When you return, you can enjoy the beautiful campground facilities with your group, family or friends.
Dan Carden
Turkey Run State Park
Location:
Marshall
Size:
2,382 acres
Opened:
1916
Activities:
Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, playgrounds, cultural programs
Amenities:
Turkey Run Inn, nature center, planetarium, saddle barn, cabins, 213 campsites, youth tent camping, camp store
DNR description:
You’ll marvel at the natural geologic wonders of this beautiful park as you hike along its famous trails. Nestled along State Road 47 southwest of Crawfordsville, the park offers the chance to explore deep, sandstone ravines, walk along stands of aged forests and enjoy the scenic views along Sugar Creek. Make sure to visit the Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin, which commemorates the contributions of the father of Indiana’s state park system.
Dan Carden
Versailles State Park
Location: Versailles
Size: 5,988 acres
Opened: 1943
Activities: Hiking; fishing; horseback riding; mountain biking; boating; swimming; picnicking; kayaking
Amenities: Covered bridge; boat launch; boat rental; 226 modern campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Take a drive through the beautiful rolling hills of southeastern Indiana with Versailles State Park, Indiana’s second-largest state park, as your destination. Numerous fossils tell the story of an ancient sea that covered the region. During the Civil War, Morgan’s Raiders made their way through the area that is now the park. The town of Versailles was briefly under Confederate control. Relax while fishing on the 230-acre lake where you can rent a rowboat, kayak or canoe. Get a workout and see the beauty of the park by taking a walk on the hiking trails or a ride on the mountain bike trails. Bring your horses for the day to enjoy the more than 20 miles of horse trails. Steps to a scenic overlook at the dam are a prime spot to see herons and other aquatic wildlife.
Dan Carden
White River State Park
Location: Indianapolis
Size: 250 acres
Opened: 1979
Activities: Museums; sports; concerts; theaters; zoo; hiking; Segway rides; historic canal; gardening; maze; picnicking; art
Amenities: Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art; IMAX Theater; Indiana State Museum; Indianapolis Indians baseball at Victory Field; Indianapolis Zoo; White River Gardens; NCAA Hall of Champions; Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial; Indiana History Center; Central Canal; Military Park
Description: White River State Park boasts world-class attractions and destinations that offer distinctive experiences for every interest and visitor! Yes, you will find green spaces, trails, trees and waterways that you expect at any state park. In addition to nature’s wonderland, you will find cultural, educational, and recreational attractions and events in our urban getaway’s 250-acres. Located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, White River State Park is the place you can enjoy the outdoors without ever leaving the city.
Dan Carden
Whitewater Memorial State Park
Location: Liberty
Size: 1,710 acres
Opened: 1949
Activities: Hiking; fishing; horseback riding; boating; swimming; canoeing; picnicking; ice fishing; archery; hayrides; birdwatching
Amenities: Marina; saddle barn; boat launches; boat rental; cabins; 318 modern and primitive campsites; youth tent camping; camp store
DNR description: Whitewater Memorial State Park is a great family getaway because of its 200-acre Whitewater Lake, access to Brookville Reservoir and other recreational facilities. Shoreline hiking, flat-water boating, swimming, fishing and camping opportunities are abundant around the man-made lake. The access to Brookville Reservoir provides many opportunities for seeing migrating flocks of birds. Whitewater Memorial State Park boasts 9 miles of horseback riding trails with access both for day users and from the horsemen’s campground. The land for the park was originally purchased by the surrounding counties of Union, Fayette, Franklin and Wayne as a memorial to the men and women who served in World War II.
Dan Carden
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Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/education/indiana-school-bullying-prevention-plan-wins-house-and-senate-approval/article_465c8b24-e9cf-11ed-8a00-4f0449dd2185.html | 2023-05-03T18:41:01 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/education/indiana-school-bullying-prevention-plan-wins-house-and-senate-approval/article_465c8b24-e9cf-11ed-8a00-4f0449dd2185.html |
VALPARAISO — The Honor Flight of Greater Lafayette will celebrate its 25th flight honoring Hoosier veterans on Wednesday.
Donald Lipke, 91, and William Parker, 94, will be among 85 veterans to participate in the flight. Both served in the U.S. military before and during the Korean War.
"I'm looking forward to the flight because I have put it off in the past," Parker said. "I kept telling telling the organization to take other veterans first."
The Honor Flight celebrates America’s veterans by inviting them to share a day of honor at the nation’s memorials in Washington. More than 250,000 veterans have completed this journey since the organization was founded in 2005.
“It’s a pretty special day,” said Kevin Bol, a board member of Honor Flight of Greater Lafayette. “The veterans will remember this for a long time.”
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Four of the 134 Honor Flight hubs across the nation are in Indiana: Lafayette, Fort Wayne, Evansville and Indianapolis.
The Lafayette hub was established in 2012 by several local Gold Star Families. Gold Star Families can display a Gold Star Service Flag for service members who were killed or died while serving in the armed forces, according to Hope for the Warriors.
Hoosier heroes will gather at 5 a.m. Wednesday at Purdue University Airport to take photos and enjoy breakfast. Veterans will the begin boarding the aircraft with a guardian — family members, friends or acquaintances — to look over them for the day.
Around 8 a.m., the plane will take off for Washington. Upon arrival, veterans will tour the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Iwo Jima Memorial and finally Arlington National Cemetery.
After touring the memorials, veterans, guardians and Honor Flight staff will take a flight back to West Lafayette. Upon arrival, people will gather to celebrate the veterans' homecoming. More than 400 supporters have gathered in the past, Bol said.
People are encouraged to bring U.S. flags, signs and banners to the Purdue Airport, 1501 Aviation Drive in West Lafayette, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.
For more information visit honorflightlafayette.com.
"This will be special because my son is my guardian for the flight," Parker said. "He's involved with the organization and has been after me to go since the trip started. I think I should get it done."
Parker served in the U.S. Army beginning Nov. 1, 1947. He originally enlisted for four years, but his contract was extended by a year once the Korean War began.
Although he was born in Pennsylvania, Parker moved to Valparaiso with his family after his contract was up. He and Lipke live at Avalon Springs Health Campus in Valparaiso.
Avalon Springs provides assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. This is the first time Avalon Springs and Honor Flight of Greater Lafayette are collaborating to send a handful of veteran residents on the flight, Bol said.
"I've had friends who've participated in the flight and begged me to go on it," said Lipke, formerly from Hammond. "I've heard it's one of the best things that's ever happened to a military man."
Lipke served in the military from 1953 to 1954, referring to Korea as the hot iron during this time. He enlisted because he had grown up on a farm and wanted to experience more. On the flight, Lipke will be escorted by an employee from Avalon Springs.
"I don't know how all of this happened, but it's a beautiful thing," he said. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/valparaiso/valparaiso-veterans-finally-taking-honor-flight-to-dc/article_b3c29a12-e382-11ed-8af0-57f6e0354c5f.html | 2023-05-03T18:41:08 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/valparaiso/valparaiso-veterans-finally-taking-honor-flight-to-dc/article_b3c29a12-e382-11ed-8af0-57f6e0354c5f.html |
State lawmakers in the final week of the 2023 legislative session approved an attorney general budget some $11 million lower than originally requested, but it’s one Drew Wrigley says represents cooperation between his office and the Legislature.
“We didn’t ask for five of anything we needed three of,” the attorney general said. “I’m very pleased with how the Legislature responded to our requests.”
Wrigley at the start of the session put forth a budget request of $110 million, about 29% or $24.6 million higher than the previous biennium. That request included 26 additional full-time employees and additional space and equipment at the State Crime Lab. The approved 2023-25 budget total is just short of $99 million.
It provides for a $5 million litigation fund to pay attorneys hired on a per-case basis to represent state agencies. About $3.2 million of the pool will come from the gambling and excise tax allocation fund and be transferred by the Attorney General’s Office to state agencies.
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The new budget includes 13 additional full-time employees. It provides for two firearms testers, two latent fingerprint scientists, and one scientist in each area of DNA, blood and drug testing at the State Crime Lab. Three BCI agents will assist other law enforcement in understaffed areas near American Indian reservations.
The budget also provides for two additional IT employees, four BCI cybercrimes investigators, additional attorneys in the Medicare Fraud Unit, and a number of support staff. The State Fire Marshal Division and its eight employees -- now under the AG's office -- will move to the Insurance Department.
The budget also includes a proposed interim study to examine whether the State Crime Lab should be kept administratively separate from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, a division of Wrigley's office.
Wrigley at the start of the session asked legislators to change a state law that states the lab must be administratively separated from BCI. He said the move would streamline both organizations and reduce testing backlogs at the lab. Opponents said BCI oversight could call the lab's credibility into question. The Senate killed an amended version of the bill -- which would have added a managerial position separate from the lab director -- in a 2-44 vote.
Also included in the budget:
- $1.1 million for grants to organizations that provide prevention and treatment services related to human trafficking.
- $400,000 in resiliency funding for mental health and wellness support for current and retired correctional and law enforcement personnel.
- An attorney general salary of $179,300 through June 2024 and $186,400 after that. Wrigley's current salary is $165,800.
- $2 million in justice assistance grants from federal COVID-19 funds. | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/bismarck/north-dakota-legislature-oks-99m-attorney-general-budget-13-new-full-time-workers-included/article_8afb108a-e9bf-11ed-8480-d777348651e2.html | 2023-05-03T18:41:49 | 1 | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/bismarck/north-dakota-legislature-oks-99m-attorney-general-budget-13-new-full-time-workers-included/article_8afb108a-e9bf-11ed-8480-d777348651e2.html |
A 52-year-old Lincoln man has been sentenced to 17½ years in federal prison for dealing methamphetamine in the area, including to someone working with police, according to federal prosecutors.
Senior United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Brian Norman on Friday to the prison time, plus seven years of supervised release.
There is no parole in federal prison.
On Jan. 4, 2022, Norman sold cocaine to someone working with law enforcement, United States Attorney Steven Russell said in a press release.
After the deal, investigators contacted Norman in a car parked outside a Lincoln business. In a search, investigators found cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA tablets, hydrocodone pills and suspected LSD in a bag at Norman’s feet, and baggies, a digital scale and other drug paraphernalia.
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Russell said they also found about 1.5 pounds of meth in Norman’s coat pockets, along with $816 cash.
The case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force, Nebraska State Patrol and Omaha Police Department.
Lancaster County's biggest drug seizures
I-80 bust turned up $100K, led to 1,830 pounds of drugs, sheriff’s captain says
The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office says it found $103,194 in suspected drug money and arrested a 25-year-old North Carolina man in a traffic stop on Interstate 80 west of Lincoln shortly before 10 a.m. Friday.
Capt. Ben Houchin said Brandon Montoya, of Charlotte, was stopped in a westbound Toyota Tundra for following too closely and driving on the shoulder. During the stop, Houchin said, the deputy developed suspicions Montoya was involved in illegal activity. A search turned up the money, which was sealed and in a suitcase, and a ledger.
Houchin said deputies reached out to law enforcement in Charlotte, where Montoya lives and rents a storage unit, believing that there was a strong possibility they would find a large amount of narcotics there.
He said the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department took the information, got search warrants and found 1,290 pounds of marijuana and THC edibles in Montoya's storage unit and at his home, tens of thousands of empty and loaded bottles of THC oil, marijuana cigar tubes and THC vape cartridges, 10 pounds of THC wax, 40 pounds of marijuana, packing materials, a 9mm Glock handgun and $90,000 in cash.
Houchin said the drugs added up to 1,831 pounds.
Pair accused of hauling 645 pounds of pot on I-80 through Lincoln area
Two men remained at the Lancaster County jail Thursday, a day after prosecutors charged them in connection with 645 pounds of marijuana found in their rental truck.
Brandon Arrington, 30, of McDonough, Georgia, and Edward Babb of Houston both are facing four felonies: two counts of possession with intent to deliver and two counts of no drug tax stamp.
In an affidavit for their arrests, a Lancaster County Sheriff's deputy said he stopped a GMC Penske rental truck with Virginia plates Tuesday after seeing its passenger side tires cross onto the shoulder of Interstate 80 near the Lincoln Airport exit.
During the traffic stop, the deputy became suspicious the men were involved in criminal activity.
They both denied a request to search the truck, but the deputy deployed his police dog around it after seeing what he believed to be marijuana residue on the floorboard.
The search turned up 645 pounds of marijuana and 4.74 pounds of THC vapor pens in the truck's cargo area inside cardboard boxes wrapped in plastic wrap, according to court records.
On Wednesday, at their first court appearances on the charges, Lancaster County Judge Matt Acton set their bonds at $250,000.
515 pounds of marijuana
$1 million in vacuum-sealed bags
$500K of meth
300 pounds of marijuana
55 pounds of cocaine
$235K in cake mix cans
250 pounds of marijuana in fake compartment
218 pounds of marijuana
214 pounds of marijuana
145 pounds of marijuana
116 pounds of marijuana
110 pounds of marijuana, shatter
Lancaster County deputies find 109 lbs of pot in I-80 traffic stop
A California woman was arrested Friday morning after Lancaster County sheriff's deputies found more 100 pounds of marijuana in her vehicle during a traffic stop.
At about 9:30 a.m., Pakou J. Yang, 37, of Oroville, was pulled over on Interstate 80 about three miles east of the Pleasant Dale interchange for following another vehicle too closely.
During the stop, a deputy determined the 2018 Nissan that Yang was driving was a one-way rental, which the deputy described in court records as a common sign of drug trafficking. She also became "extremely nervous" while being questioned by the deputy.
Deputies searched the vehicle after a drug-sniffing dog indicated the presence of drugs. They found 109.5 pounds of vacuum-sealed marijuana in the trunk, according to court records.
Yang was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana with intent to deliver and no drug tax stamp. She remained in jail Friday on $50,000 bail.
Lincoln drug bust nets an estimated $125K in pills, pot, LSD and mushrooms
Investigators with the Lincoln/Lancaster Narcotics Task Force carried a search warrant into a home on the 2800 block of North Third Street on Friday, and they carried out a lot more.
They found more than 4 pounds of marijuana, nearly 3 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, 3,604 oxycodone pills, 1,281 Alprazolam pills, 855 hits of LSD, 209 THC syringes, nearly $2,300 in cash and four firearms.
The drugs had an estimated street value of about $125,000, Lincoln Police Officer Erin Spilker said Tuesday.
The seizure started just before 9 a.m., when investigators visited the home on a tip that someone was selling drugs out of it, she said.
They contacted three men: 22-year-old Gustav Rockey, his roommate and a 20-year-old visitor.
The visitor had an outstanding warrant — and THC wax in his wallet — and was arrested. Rockey and his roommate each turned over a glass pipe and bags of marijuana and were allowed to leave.
Investigators then applied for the search warrant and found the drugs, guns and cash in the home.
They found Rockey three days later near First Street and Cornhusker Highway and arrested him on three counts of suspicion of possession of drugs with intent to deliver, possession of money while violating a drug law and possession of a firearm with a drug law violation.
They’re still searching for others who live in the house, Spilker said.
$118,000 in suspected drug money
100 pounds of marijuana
100 pounds of marijuana
Father and son arrested in cocaine bust, Lincoln police say
A father and son were arrested Thursday by the Lancaster County Narcotics Unit after investigators found 6.8 pounds of cocaine, a pound of marijuana and almost $4,000 in cash at an apartment complex near Capitol Beach.
Police arrested Russell Rucks Sr., 50, and Russell Rucks Jr., 28, on suspicion of possession of cocaine with intent to deliver and money during a drug violation.
Officer Erin Spilker said the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force served a search warrant at the apartment where both live at 500 Surfside Drive as part of an ongoing drug investigation.
Investigators had been looking for the elder Rucks and ended up arresting both men prior to the warrant being served. Spilker said Rucks Sr. had 8.9 grams of cocaine and over $1,600 cash in his pocket.
She said the search at the apartment turned up drugs throughout the apartment they shared. | https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/judge-sentences-lincoln-drug-dealer-caught-with-1-5-pounds-of-meth-last-year/article_393e9e1c-e9cc-11ed-b830-a7bd7d8c1b12.html | 2023-05-03T18:43:48 | 0 | https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/judge-sentences-lincoln-drug-dealer-caught-with-1-5-pounds-of-meth-last-year/article_393e9e1c-e9cc-11ed-b830-a7bd7d8c1b12.html |
HAZLETON – The Buchanan County Conservation Board will host four "Building Better Birders" workshops from 6 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 6.
Birders of all skill levels are encouraged to attend the workshop that will focus on song birds.
Guest speaker Kelly McKay will hold multiple guided birding opportunities.
The following workshops are:
- 6 to 8 a.m.: A bird hike around the Fontana Park woodland to hear and view songbirds
- 8:15 to 10:15 a.m.: A bird hike around Otter Creek and Fontana Reservoir
- 10:30 a.m. to noon: A PowerPoint presentation about songbirds
- 1 to 3:30 p.m.: A bird hike at Ham Marsh
Preregistration is recommended by going to buchanancountyparks.com and clicking on 'Public Events.'
Food prices fall on world markets but not on kitchen tables
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Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/buchanan-county-conservation-holding-birding-workshops/article_cf1be877-6471-5479-b066-8f003d38eb3a.html | 2023-05-03T18:43:54 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/buchanan-county-conservation-holding-birding-workshops/article_cf1be877-6471-5479-b066-8f003d38eb3a.html |
BANGOR-A traffic stop for an expired registration in Bangor led to three people being arrested.
About 4pm on May 2 an officer stopped a car on Union Street and walked his K9 partner around the car.
The dog indicated the presence of drugs.
A Bangor Police Department spokesperson says they located a substantial amount of illegal drugs and cash.
Quintin Porter, 33, of Connecticut was arrested and charged with aggravated drug trafficking.
Two passengers in the car are also facing charges.
Jennifer Saltzman,37, of Bangor was arrested on outstanding warrants for failure to appear on drug trafficking charges.
Joseph Landry-Nelson,29, of Kenduskeag was charged with unlawful possession of drugs. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/traffic-stop-for-expired-registration-leads-to-three-arrests/article_49a574f8-e9d9-11ed-a2bd-076d760b02c4.html | 2023-05-03T18:44:00 | 1 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/traffic-stop-for-expired-registration-leads-to-three-arrests/article_49a574f8-e9d9-11ed-a2bd-076d760b02c4.html |
WATERLOO — A Waterloo man accused of stealing medication from a Cedar Falls veterinarian’s office has been sentenced to probation.
Jordon Robert Tait, 31, pleaded to two counts of third-degree burglary and one count of possession of alprazolam.
He waived in-count appearance and was sentenced to up to five years in prison suspended to two to five years of probation with one year in the residential correctional facility in an order filed April 12.
Authorities allege he removed alprazolam pills – used to calm cats and dogs – from the Cedar Valley Veterinary Center on State Street while his girlfriend was cleaning the office after hours in May and June 2022. He also went to the clinic after hours on his own.
The business alerted police in June when workers discovered a shortage during an audit.
The top 10 most popular dog breeds in America
1. French bulldogs
FILE - Lola, a French bulldog, lies on the floor prior to the start of a St. Francis Day service at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, Oct. 7, 2007, in New York. The American Kennel Club announced Wednesday, March 15, 2023 that French bulldogs have become the United States' most prevalent dog breed, ending Labrador retrievers' record-breaking 31 years at the top.
AP Photo/Tina Fineberg, File
2. Labrador retrievers
Labrador retrievers Soave, 2, left, and Hola, 10-months, pose for photographs as Harbor, right, 8-weeks, takes a nap during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarters in New York, March 28, 2018.
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File
3. Golden retrievers
Daniel, a golden retriever, wins the sporting group during 144th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Feb. 11, 2020, in New York.
AP Photo/John Minchillo, File
4. Golden shepherds
FILE — President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden's dog Commander, a purebred German shepherd, is walked before the president and first lady arrive on Marine One at the White House in Washington, March 13, 2022.
AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File
5. Poodles
A poodle competes during the Annual Kennel Club of Beverly Hills Dog Show at Pomona Fairplex in Pomona, Calif, March 4, 2017.
AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File
6. Bulldogs
An English bulldog gets a kiss from its owner, in Bucharest, Romania, March 12, 2017.
AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, File
7. Rottweilers
Talos, a Rottweiler, poses for photos as the American Kennel Club's breed rankings are announced, in New York, March 21, 2017.
AP Photo/Richard Drew, File
8. Beagles
Miss P, a 15-inch beagle, is presented during the best in show competition at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, at Madison Square Garden, in New York, Feb. 17, 2015.
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File
9. Dachshunds
A long-haired dachshund is shown in the Hound group competition, during the 140th Westminster Kennel Club dog show, Feb. 15, 2016, at Madison Square Garden in New York.
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File
10. German shorthaired pointers
CJ, a German shorthaired pointer, is shown in the ring by his handler during the Best in Show competition, at the 140th Westminster Kennel Club dog show, Feb. 16, 2016, at Madison Square Garden, in New York.
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File
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BELTON, Texas — The Interstate 14 and US Highway 190 West exit in Belton has been changed to Fort Cavazos prior to the Army Post's official renaming on Tuesday, May 9.
Texas Today Anchor Jasmin Caldwell captured a photo on her commute, showing how the adaptations have already begun around the area.
Last week, the Fort Hood Clear Creek sign was changed to Fort Cavazos as well, which sparked conversation among community members.
This new name honors Texas-born, Korean and Vietnam War veteran General Richard Edward Cavazos.
Born in Kingsville on Jan. 31, 1929, Cavazos was raised by Mexican American parents.
In 1951, Cavazos completed his basic officer training at Fort Benning, Georgia. After being deployed to Korea, he was awarded a Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star for his service.
Cavazos returned to the U.S. in 1953 where he was assigned to Fort Hood. He was then deployed to Vietnam in 1967 as a lieutenant colonel. Officials awarded Cavazos a second Distinguished Service Cross for his service there.
Cavazos became the first Hispanic to reach the rank of brigadier general in 1976. Just four years later in 1980, Cavazos took over as the III Corps Commanding General.
Cavazos succeeded General Robert Shoemaker as commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command in 1982 and retired from the Army in 1984.
For more information, visit here.
Also on KCENTV.com: | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/highway-signs-in-killeen-change-fort-hood-to-fort-cavazos/500-0cdf78aa-961e-42a7-be70-f6254db00893 | 2023-05-03T18:44:03 | 1 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/highway-signs-in-killeen-change-fort-hood-to-fort-cavazos/500-0cdf78aa-961e-42a7-be70-f6254db00893 |
The service features quite a few pieces of sacred coronation regalia, but let's talk crowns. We've already mentioned St. Edward's Crown. It's considered the centerpiece because it's used at the exact moment of crowning. It was made for Charles II in 1661 following the restoration of the monarchy the year before. Its medieval predecessor — which was melted down in 1649 — was believed to date back to the 11th-century English king, Edward the Confessor.
It is not an exact replica of the earlier design but follows the original in featuring four crosses pattée, four fleurs-de-lis and two arches. Made of solid gold, it's adorned with 444 precious stones — including rubies, amethysts, sapphires and other gems — and is fitted with a purple velvet cap and ermine band. Historically, it was supposed to remain at Westminster Abbey, so a second crown was created for the sovereign to wear out of the abbey.
That second crown is the Imperial State Crown, which many will be more familiar with as it's often used for ceremonial occasions like the State Opening of Parliament. It features a dazzling 2,868 diamonds, including the massive Cullinan II. It was made in 1937 and is a near-replica of Queen Victoria's earlier Imperial State Crown. The arches in its design were meant to demonstrate that England was not subject to any other earthly power.
Once the spiritual elements of the service are over, King Charles and Camilla will head to St. Edward's Chapel, a stone shrine at the heart of the abbey, where the King will put on the Imperial State Crown in preparation for the return to Buckingham Palace.
About the photo: The Royal State Hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II with the Imperial State Crown resting on top proceeds towards St. George's Chapel, Windsor, Monday Sept. 19, 2022. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/severed-feet-at-cedar-falls-intersection-turned-out-to-be-rubber/article_df501efa-eda0-5d37-8754-a0e3cdd4c6f5.html | 2023-05-03T18:44:06 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/severed-feet-at-cedar-falls-intersection-turned-out-to-be-rubber/article_df501efa-eda0-5d37-8754-a0e3cdd4c6f5.html |
WATERLOO — On Thursday, water mains will be flushed in the area from Independence Avenue to Newell Street between East Fourth and Iowa streets, including the City View neighborhood.
Water may be a brownish color during and after the flushing but the water is bacterially safe. Waterloo Water Works urges customers within the area and several blocks of it to not plan clothes washing on Thursday. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/hydrant-flushing-set-for-thursday/article_6028f511-92e8-5935-b26c-3c9003c0cf54.html | 2023-05-03T18:44:12 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/hydrant-flushing-set-for-thursday/article_6028f511-92e8-5935-b26c-3c9003c0cf54.html |
WATERLOO –The Waterloo Bucks announced they will be holding job fairs for summer game-day positions. They will take place 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 13 at the Riverfront Stadium.
The Bucks are looking to fill positions such as a box office manager, camera operators, concessions, groundskeepers, mascot performer, music coordinator, stadium cleaning crew and ushers.
All prospective employees must be at least 16 years old.
If unable to attend the job fairs, an application can be filled out at the Bucks' office during normal business hours, or downloaded from waterloobucks.com and mailed in.
Photos: Waterloo vs. Lincoln, USHL Playoffs
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 1
Waterloo's Gavin O'Connell enters the Lincoln zone during first period action Sunday in a United States Hockey League Clark Cup hockey game at Young Arena.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 2
Waterloo forward Miko Matikka lets loose a shot during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 3
Waterloo defenseman Sam Rinzel moves the puck up ice as Lincoln's Jimmy Jurcev defends during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 4
Waterloo forwards Gavin O'Connell and Miko Matikka crash the Lincoln Stars' net during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 5
Waterloo defenseman Patrick Geary lays a hit on Lincoln forward Daniel Sambuco during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 6
Lincoln forward Klavs Veinbergs protects the puck from Waterloo defenseman Ben Robertson during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 7
Waterloo forward Owen Baker looks for position along the boards as Lincoln defenseman Cole Crusberg-Roseen gains possession of the puck during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 8
Lincoln defensman Jimmy Jurcev delivers a bit to Waterloo defenseman Sam Rinzel as Griffin Erdman looks on during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 9
Waterloo forward Gavyn Thoreson carries the puck as two Lincoln Stars give chase during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 10
Waterloo goaltender Emmett Croteau and defenseman Patrick Geary look on as a Lincoln Stars players goes down in the crease during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 11
Waterloo Black Hawk defenseman Aaron Pionk dumps a puck to behind the Lincoln net Sunday during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 12
Waterloo's Ben Robertson maneuvers inside the Lincoln zone Sunday during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
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Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/waterloo-bucks-to-host-job-fair/article_2e7e54d7-3f91-5f4a-8fbd-1f84e9d339db.html | 2023-05-03T18:44:19 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/waterloo-bucks-to-host-job-fair/article_2e7e54d7-3f91-5f4a-8fbd-1f84e9d339db.html |
LOCAL
Texas DPS IDs teen killed in Hockley County rollover crash
Mateo Rosiles
Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
An 18-year-old woman died in a rollover crash Tuesday evening outside of Littlefield on Tuesday evening, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Investigators believe Aunika Maes of Spring, Texas was driving a 2010 Volkswagen Jetta east on State Highway 114 when her vehicle drifted into a ditch and began to roll.
According to DPS, Maes was taken to Covenant Hospital in Levelland where she later died.
Other factors contributing to the crash were not immediately clear as the investigation is ongoing. | https://www.lubbockonline.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/texas-dps-ids-teen-killed-in-hockley-county-rollover-crash/70179141007/ | 2023-05-03T18:49:09 | 1 | https://www.lubbockonline.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/texas-dps-ids-teen-killed-in-hockley-county-rollover-crash/70179141007/ |
TWO HARBORS — Split Rock Lighthouse will shine its beacon Wednesday night in honor of the late Gordon Lightfoot.
It's a rare honor: The beacon is seldom lit, with an annual exception being Nov. 10 to mark the anniversary of the 1975 sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. A 1976 song by Lightfoot, "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald," has moved millions of listeners with the true story of the Lake Superior catastrophe.
"He was an amazing storyteller," Split Rock site manager Hayes Scriven told the News Tribune when reached by phone Tuesday. "When you listen to that song, you feel like you're there. You can see what he's talking about, very vivid."
In fact, said Scriven, it was Lightfoot's song that inspired former lighthouse manager Lee Radzak to initiate the tradition of lighting the beacon for the Edmund Fitzgerald in 1985, the 10th anniversary of the shipwreck.
"He was coming home one day," said Scriven, "and the song 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald' came on the radio, and he decided that night, because it was Nov. 10, that he was going to go and light the beacon for the Fitzgerald ... every year, it grew from that."
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In a statement Wednesday, Scriven added that "we felt compelled to honor (Lightfoot's) legacy with tonight’s lighting."
The beacon will be lit from 9-11 p.m. Wednesday. While the historic site and visitor center will be closed at that time, visitors with Minnesota State Park stickers can park at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park for a view. For more information, see mnhs.org. | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/split-rock-lighthouse-to-shine-beacon-in-honor-of-gordon-lightfoot | 2023-05-03T18:49:39 | 0 | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/split-rock-lighthouse-to-shine-beacon-in-honor-of-gordon-lightfoot |
SAN ANGELO, Texas — Looking to relax with some free mimosas, wine, cotton candy and more?
Downtown San Angelo will be hosting a "Mother's Day Mosey" event May 11 along with participating restaurants and businesses for just that.
From 5-8 p.m., 12 downtown businesses will offer discounts for mothers to honor their dedication ahead of the Mother's Day holiday.
Some of the deals include free samples at Cowboy-Up Chocolates, beer at Wandering Mind Brewery and free wine and a raffle at Texas Angels Boutique.
Mothers will also be able to collect stickers throughout the night to add to their bingo cards, where they will then have the chance to be entered in a raffle for a free t-shirt while supplies last.
Go to downtownsanangelo.com/events to learn more. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/downtown-san-angelo-to-host-mothers-day-mosey-may-11/504-23082071-014b-45a4-9122-dd19d586c2cd | 2023-05-03T18:52:48 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/downtown-san-angelo-to-host-mothers-day-mosey-may-11/504-23082071-014b-45a4-9122-dd19d586c2cd |
The Coconino National Forest will begin selling 2023 season firewood permits this week, Forest officials announced.
Permits can first be purchased on Friday, May 5 while collection may begin the following day.
Purchases can be made over the phone or in-person using check or credit card at any of the below Coconino NF offices:
- Forest Supervisor’s Office: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday (928-527-3600, 1824 S. Thompson St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001)
- Flagstaff Ranger Station: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday (928-526-0866, 5075 N. Hwy 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004)
- Red Rock Ranger Station: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Noon to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday (928-203-2900, 8375 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86351)
- Mogollon Rim Ranger Station: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday (928-477-2255, 8738 Ranger Road, Happy Jack, AZ, 86024)
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In addition to a method of payment, purchasers should be prepared to provide their name, address, phone number, type of identification and identification number, the names of any additional cutters, credit card information, the type of wood and number of cords desired.
The minimum cost for a permit is $20, with a maximum purchase of 12 cords per household. Permits allow for the cutting of down and dead wood or standing wood that meets certain criteria in specified areas. The cost for oak, aspen, juniper and maple will be $5 per cord, and the cost for pine and mixed conifer will be $2.50 per cord.
Forest officials predict that there will be many visitors and phone calls during the first few weeks of permit sales. They ask members of the public to be patient and realize there is limited staffing fielding a large volume of requests. In-person purchases will be prioritized over phone calls.
For those ordering over the phone, permits and associated load tags will be mailed to purchasers, along with a receipt and a firewood guide that includes cutting instructions and a map. Purchasers are required to sign and date the permit in the permittee line as soon as it is received.
More information regarding firewood permits and processes is available online at coconinonationalforest.us.
Purchasing by mailed check:
If purchasing by check, send a written request by mail to any of the offices previously mentioned, to the attention of “Timber Permits.” The written request should include your name, address, phone number, type of identification and identification number, the names of any additional cutters, the type of wood and number of cords desired. Your written request must be signed and dated, as well as include your check payment for the exact amount of cords being purchased — as long as the minimum of $20 is met.
Forest roads and other precautions
Unless specified elsewhere in the permit or on its accompanying map, or identified as prohibited, motorized off-road travel is authorized to access and load firewood. The permit does not authorize motorized cross-country travel to scout for firewood, but it does authorize off-road vehicle use by the most direct route in and out of the area to accomplish firewood retrieval. Please exercise caution when driving off-road and avoid resource damage.
The Coconino NF now has GPS-enabled firewood maps for smartphones, tablets and Garmin GPS devices, which may be used as a supplement to the firewood guide issued with each permit.
Firewood cutters should be aware chainsaws can throw sparks and ignite grasses and brush, so please take care when cutting firewood. Always carry a shovel and a fire extinguisher or water in case of a fire start. Additionally, all chainsaws must be equipped with a stainless-steel spark arrestor screen. As the season continues, cutters need to ensure they are aware of any fire restrictions by checking local Forest Service information.
Free use firewood areas
There are currently no free-use firewood areas designated for the 2023 season, but areas may be designated at a later point. Please visit coconinonationalforest.us throughout the season for updated information.
Other permit info
Additional forest and district permit programs such as Wildings, Post, Poles or House logs and Post and Stays will also be open for sale. | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/coconino-nf-begins-selling-firewood-cutting-permits-this-week/article_7fc78ec6-e9d0-11ed-8ba0-7bbd6c72456d.html | 2023-05-03T18:55:04 | 0 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/coconino-nf-begins-selling-firewood-cutting-permits-this-week/article_7fc78ec6-e9d0-11ed-8ba0-7bbd6c72456d.html |
Through the first 3 2/3 innings Tuesday night, the No. 7 Coconino Panthers softball team was in control of their state tournament matchup against the No. 2 Greenway Demons in Phoenix.
Coconino sophomore pitcher Kaitlyn Tso had been able to cruise through the Demon lineup to that point behind timely strikeouts and stellar defensive play that kept any threat by the Greenway bats at bay.
However, the Demons started to hit better later in the game, while Coconino struggled to hit against Demons senior Kaitlyn Terry in the circle. Greenway topped the Panthers 6-2.
Needing just one out to get out of a jam in the fourth inning, the Panthers made several mistakes, including two errors, and Terry hit a two-run home run to take a 4-0 lead the Demons woud never lose.
Terry dominated for most of the game, going six innings before giving up a run.
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In the bottom half of the sixth inning, the Demons scored two more runs to lead 6-0.
With two outs in the top of the seventh inning, Coconino junior Alyssa Fockler reached second base on a double. Fockler was the Panthers' most efficient hitter, going 2 for 3 with a pair of doubles.
Then sophomore Destiny Villas hit a single to drive Fockler home. Tso continued the two-out rally, as she also hit a double that scored Villas. However, that was all the Panthers could muster, as the comeback fell short.
“Offensively we have some things to clean up and we have to fix some of our defensive mistakes but we fought in that seventh inning," Panthers manager Kimberly Dennis said.
After two hard-fought games to start the postseason, Dennis talked about what the Panthers can take with them the rest of the postseason.
“Every game is going to be a battle on both sides in all aspects and we need to take advantage of all the opportunities we have,” she said.
With Tuesday's loss, the Panthers (17-2, 11-1 Grand Canyon) fell into the elimination bracket of the 4A Conference tournament, setting up a home rematch against crosstown rival No. 14 Flagstaff (16-5, 9-3 Grand Canyon). The winner will advance to the quarterfinal round, while the loser's season is done.
Heading into their third matchup against the Eagles in just two weeks, Dennis was adamant on the Panthers not overlooking their opponent.
“It is a rivalry game but we’re approaching it as a state game, this is a state game and we’re going to prepare our girls for that.” Dennis said.
First pitch between the Panthers and Eagles is set for Thursday at 4 p.m. at Coconino High School. | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/coconino-bats-fall-flat-in-state-game-at-greenway/article_d617b842-e9cf-11ed-9399-6fa8224cd2d2.html | 2023-05-03T18:55:10 | 1 | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/coconino-bats-fall-flat-in-state-game-at-greenway/article_d617b842-e9cf-11ed-9399-6fa8224cd2d2.html |
CARLISLE, Pa. — A Central Pennsylvania police detective was instrumental in the federal prosecution of a suspect for the sexual exploitation of a minor, the Cumberland County District Attorney's Office announced Wednesday.
Det. Trent Mellott of the Upper Allen Township Police Department used administrative subpoenas and facial recognition to help identify multiple victims in several U.S. states and Canada, the DA's Office said.
After the victims were identified, the case was referred to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, according to the DA.
Investigators eventually charged Jordan Valle, 26, of Schenectady, New York with the sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography.
Valle pled guilty to one felony count of each offense in U.S. Court for the Northern District of New York.
As part of his plea, Valle admitted that he posed as a computer hacker online and threatened to delete or take over social media accounts belonging to several victims between the ages of 10 and 15 years old if they did not send him sexually explicit photos and videos, prosecutors said.
Several children complied with his demands and sent him sexually explicit videos, according to prosecutors.
Valle was also found to be in possession of child pornography obtained from the internet saved onto a file in his home computer, prosecutors said.
Valle will be sentenced in August. He faces a minimum prison term of 15 to 30 years for the count of sexual exploitation of children and up to 20 years in prison for the possession of child pornography count. He also will also be required to serve at least 5 years and up to a life term on supervised release after his imprisonment term ends, at which time he will be required to register as a sex offender, according to prosecutors.
Valle also will be required to forfeit the devices he used to commit the offenses to the United States and must pay restitution to his victims.
"We'd like to congratulate Detective Mellott and the Upper Allen Township Police Department for their excellent work on this case," Cumberland County District Attorney Sean McCormack said. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/cumberland-county/det-trent-mellott-praised-child-exploitation-case-cumberland-county/521-3e21a7b8-652b-4aea-97a4-5a7d69ac5bd5 | 2023-05-03T18:55:49 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/cumberland-county/det-trent-mellott-praised-child-exploitation-case-cumberland-county/521-3e21a7b8-652b-4aea-97a4-5a7d69ac5bd5 |
MERIDIAN, Idaho — The Meridian Police Department issued an advisory on Wednesday urging residents to lock their vehicles amid dozens of reported thefts.
Since the beginning of this year, Jan. 1, 2023, there have been 44 reports of vehicle burglaries in Meridian. Common items stolen include wallets, purses, jewelry and even firearms - of which there have 12 firearms reported as stolen from parked vehicles.
According to the Meridian Police Department (MPD), the data reflects a 41.9 percent increase from 2022. Of the 12 guns stolen from vehicles, 10 were accessible because the vehicles were unlocked.
Property Crimes Sergeant Matt Parsons said, "the easiest and most effective way residents can protect themselves and their property is by removing their belongings and locking their vehicles when not in use."
"Idaho is not like it was thirty years ago where it was considered to be relatively safe to leave your vehicles unlocked. Most of our reported vehicle thefts could have been prevented by individuals simply locking their vehicle," said Parsons.
MPD insists that locking the vehicle is the best way to protect personal property and avoid becoming a victim of a theft crime.
Additional preventative measures to protect personal property in vehicle:
- Park in well-lit areas: Thieves are less likely to target a car parked in a well-lit area where they can be more easily seen.
- Install an alarm system: An alarm system can deter thieves and alert you and others nearby if someone tries to break into your car.
- Don't leave valuables in plain sight: Always remember to remove items such as firearms from the vehicle when parking; especially in publicly accessible areas, such as parking lots and driveways.
The Meridian Police Department added that it offers free gun locks, available for pickup Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
TEXT-A-TIP
If you witness suspicious or criminal activity, MPD offers a tip line. Just text 'TIP MERIDIAN' followed by your message to 888777 or submit an anonymous tip on the MPD website.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/lock-doors-meridian-police-vehicle-break/277-ec3b809d-2c49-4748-87ac-927664fc5fdd | 2023-05-03T18:58:50 | 1 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/lock-doors-meridian-police-vehicle-break/277-ec3b809d-2c49-4748-87ac-927664fc5fdd |
BOISE, Idaho — Winter is winding down and the warmer temperatures are enticing motorcyclists to saddle up for sightseeing rides on Idaho's scenic byways.
Although weather conditions may be optimal for a cruise across the Gem State, the curvy country roads and shifty switchbacks can pose significant risks to motorists.
The month of May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. So, in an effort to raise said awareness, Idaho transportation departments are alerting drivers to the alarming statistics that annually accompany the increased motorcycle activity on the road.
"Idahoans look out for each other. It's who we are. So, let's do our part as drivers to check and double-check our blind spots and mirrors for motorcycles and to use our turn signals so motorcyclists can anticipate how they need to react to stay safe," said Idaho Office of Highway Safety Program Manager Josephine Middleton.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are roughly 28 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash.
"Idaho's spring and summer months are absolutely beautiful, and motorcycle enthusiasts are naturally eager to take full advantage and hit the open road," said AAA Idaho spokesman Matthew Conde.
According to the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), there were 554 motorcycle crashes in the Gem State and 32 fatalities in 2021, which is an 18 percent increase from the year prior. There were also 200 serious injuries – a nearly 30% increase from 2020.
ITD reports that the number of registered motorcycles in Idaho was more than 56,000 prior to 2020. That number then dropped to less than 49,000 in 2020. But that number is recovering, with more than 51,000 registered motorcycles in 2021.
"All road users need to become aware of the consequences of their bad habits and make positive personal changes," said Idaho Coalition for Motorcycle Safety Government Affairs Director Lane Triplett.
AAA Idaho, the Idaho Transportation Department, the Idaho Coalition for Motorcycle Safety, the Boise Police Department, and High Desert Harley-Davidson provide the top tips for Idaho explorers in attempt to better protect motorcyclists.
Motorist Safety Tips:
- Yield to motorcyclists, especially when turning at intersections.
- Remember that a motorcycle's size could cause you to misjudge speed and distance.
- Check all mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Check all mirrors and blind spots again.
- Increase your following distance to give motorcycles more time to stop or maneuver in an emergency.
- Obey the speed limit and follow suggested speeds for curves and low-visibility areas.
"Distraction continues to be a factor in many crashes. While most riders take steps to ride safely and protect themselves, cell phone use and other forms of distraction along with red light runners are causing far too many crashes involving motorcycles," said Triplett.
Cpl. Kyle Wills of the Boise Police Department added, "Whether we are on two wheels or four, whether it's our daily commute or a road trip, we all need to look out for each other every time we use the road."
"More riders should not inevitably result in more crashes and if we all look out for one another and be patient, we'll go a long way toward reducing crashes on our roadways," said Wills.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/motorcycle-safety-awareness-month-idaho/277-30f30a77-906a-4b45-87aa-71c87b4ebd94 | 2023-05-03T18:58:56 | 0 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/motorcycle-safety-awareness-month-idaho/277-30f30a77-906a-4b45-87aa-71c87b4ebd94 |
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — There are new updates as suspended Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren fights to get his job back.
Tuesday afternoon, federal judges in Alabama heard from Warren's attorney as well as Gov. Ron DeSantis's legal team during oral arguments.
Warren was removed from office by DeSantis last summer for "neglect of duty."
The District Court heard the case and came to the conclusion DeSantis violated Warren's first amendment rights, however, the judge ruled he lacked the authority to reverse the governor's suspension.
Now, Warren's defense team is going through the federal appeals court in Alabama.
Federal judges questioned Warren's defense team on how the District Court seems to have ruled this was based on conduct and how Warren did his job, rather than viewpoints.
Judges also talked about factors including how Warren signed pledges promising not to prosecute abortion cases.
DeSantis' defense was questioned about evidence they had to prove Warren neglected his duty.
Warren’s team said federal judges will issue a written ruling in the future. A retired Hillsborough County judge said that will happen within a year. He explained there's no timeline on how short or long it could take.
Warren's legal team said he filed a separate petition in the Florida Supreme Court.
"I believe with every fiber in my being in fighting for my freedoms, our democracy, and rule of law, and that’s what this fight is about," Warren said in a statement. "From the beginning we believe that the law is on our side and we hope that the court sees it this way."
DeSantis’ team said any comments will be filed in the courts. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/federal-judges-alabama-hear-warren-v-desantis-case/67-d5a26677-069b-4989-9270-3c228465c911 | 2023-05-03T18:59:13 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/federal-judges-alabama-hear-warren-v-desantis-case/67-d5a26677-069b-4989-9270-3c228465c911 |
LITHIA, Fla. — If you hear a siren Wednesday morning in Hillsborough County, don't panic.
At 9 a.m., Tampa Bay Water is testing its emergency siren system at the C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir.
People in the surrounding area can expect to hear three to five short siren blasts lasting 10-20 seconds each.
According to Tampa Bay Water, the point of the test is to make sure the sirens work in the event of an emergency situation at the regional reservoir that requires immediate evacuation.
"This is only a test," the public utilities company wrote in a news release. "Tampa Bay Water has notified Hillsborough County Emergency Management, the Sheriff's Office, Fire Rescue staff and residents surrounding the reservoir."
Anyone with questions about the sirens or the regularly scheduled testing can call 1-866-INFO-H20 or email reservoir@tampabaywater.org.
How can you tell if it's a test or an actual emergency? In the event of an actual emergency, the sirens will sound in a continuous blast.
Plus, Hillsborough County Emergency Management will immediately contact residents using text messages, emails and phone calls, and emergency responders will be dispatched to the area to direct residents.
You can sign up to receive these emergency notifications at HCFLGov.net/HCFLAlert.
This test is just one of several planned for the coming year. The sirens will also be tested once a month at 9 a.m. on the following dates:
- June 7
- July 5
- Aug. 2
- Sept. 6
- Oct. 4
- Nov. 1
- Dec. 6
If you want to make sure the next test doesn't catch you off-guard, you can sign up for email reminders of when the sirens will be tested at tampabaywater.org/sirentest. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/lithia-siren-tampa-bay-water-reservoir/67-82ebcdeb-def6-44d4-b9eb-88e5ab10533b | 2023-05-03T18:59:19 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/lithia-siren-tampa-bay-water-reservoir/67-82ebcdeb-def6-44d4-b9eb-88e5ab10533b |
RIVERVIEW, Fla. — A family's dream to bring their business to the Tampa Bay area and serve the community turned tragic after it burst into flames.
El Guavate de Oto is a Puerto Rican staple in Riverview. It caught on fire Monday night after Hillsborough County fire crews say a short circuit started the fire in the refrigerator area.
"I was at home and my kid called me saying, 'Hey dad I see a little smoke on the truck!' I say, 'What?' I rushed over here because we only live six minutes away. I couldn't wait. Yo solamente miraba y lloraba," Oto Velez said.
He says all he could do is watch firefighters and cry. The truck they built their life around was destroyed.
"It's my dream you know," Velez said. "Its two years and four months here now, but in 15 minutes its just destroyed from the fire. That's just sad."
He and his family brought the business here five years ago from Aguada, Puerto Rico.
"After Maria. We had to move after Hurricane Maria destroyed my business," Velez said. "Destruyo todo, el huracan se llevo todo."
Velez, his wife and three boys came here after losing it all. It wasn't easy, but the truck was everything.
"It's my baby," Velez said. "This food truck, my kitchen, my everything."
The front area of the food truck is where the fire started. Firefighters told Elvin that a short circuit in the refrigerators is what started it. Everything inside was fuel for the fire to keep spreading.
There's no replacement for the truck that gave them everything, so despite his insurance not covering fire damage and it costing over $25,000 to fix, they'll rebuild and can't wait for the day it reopens.
"The people, la gente, el respaldo. Se siente bien. Es un orgullo servir al cliente. We're going to push forward. We'll be back," Velez said.
Velez says he's still trying to pay his employees who can't work while the food truck is being fixed. The goal is reopen again in two weeks. The community is already stepping up to help to this family. If you'd like to, you can here. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/puerto-rican-family-loses-food-truck-fire/67-2d45c5f5-1940-496c-8306-a5c97b68c5b9 | 2023-05-03T18:59:22 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/puerto-rican-family-loses-food-truck-fire/67-2d45c5f5-1940-496c-8306-a5c97b68c5b9 |
KDAF (DALLAS) — An ever-changing economy, the effects of the pandemic, and changes within an industry have caused many businesses to close their doors in 2023.
Investing.com has released a list of stores that are closing locations around the nation. Is your favorite store next?
CVS
Established in 1963 the CVS Pharmacy brand has over 10,000 stores nationwide. In a move that will cost them $130 million, it has planned to shut down more than 200 of its branches.
Foot Locker
Due to a new CEO, the company is having to lay off a lot of employees and cut jobs to regroup the company’s strategy and brand. The athletic footwear brand is closing 117 of its branches in 2023.
Target
Don’t worry! Target is here to stay however the popular grocery store chain is slowly focusing on internet consumerism and plans to close about 13 locations.
Walgreens
The pharmacy/store is looking to turn a smaller amount of stores into bigger profit. As a result they have decided to shut down 200 stores.
The Gap
The popular clothing brand has had 350 of its stores to close worldwide. Due to rebranding and leaning away from traditional consumerism, they have decided to close 136 of its branches.
Urban Outfitters
This alternative ‘rich-kid’ hipster brand has found its home online. And it will be no surprise if more of its stores shut down, especially with stock dropping at an alarming 32%.
The Children’s Place
Kid-friendly brand Children’s Place is finding itself having to adjust, the brand has shut down more than 122 of its branches.
DSW
The brand has reported a 36% drop in sales due to temporary closures. And over the next four years, we will be seeing more as it plans to shut 65 different locations.
Neiman Marcus
The American luxury retailer is facing better times. Recently purchased by several investment firms, the company is working its way back to a rebirth. With talks of strengthening their online presence, it remains in the air if we will see more closures.
Macy’s
The American retailer established in 1858, is an American staple in households across the nation. The department store plans to close an estimated 135 store in the next three years. | https://cw33.com/news/local/end-of-an-era-popular-chains-closing-doors-in-2023/ | 2023-05-03T19:06:30 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/end-of-an-era-popular-chains-closing-doors-in-2023/ |
DALLAS(KDAF)-As we move through North Texas this morning, the weather was cooler, but it will warm up in the afternoon to the mid-80s. Thursday will have severe weather that will bring large hail and strong winds.
NWS Fort Worth said “A dryline will invade western portions of North Texas Thursday afternoon. Thunderstorms may develop ahead of the boundary, some of which could become severe. The storms will head toward the I-35 corridor and into East Texas during the evening hours, but the activity should steadily weaken with the loss of daytime heating. The main concerns are large hail and damaging winds, though there is a low, non-zero tornado threat. Check back for new updates as they become available.”
We are expecting severe weather today. The weather should be in the mid-70s in the afternoon but drop down to the 50s at night.
NWS Fort Worth said, “A few morning and late afternoon showers and storms will be possible mainly across northwestern portions of North Texas. No severe weather is expected. Highs will be in the mid-70s to lower 80s. Tonight, calm conditions will continue with lows in the 50s to lower 60s”.
Friday will have a small chance of rain and a few thunderstorms in the afternoon, but nothing severe.
NWS Fort Worth said, “Friday will be hot for early May with highs mainly in the lower and middle 90s under a mostly sunny sky. There is a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon, generally across Central Texas. Severe storms are not expected”. | https://cw33.com/news/local/severe-weather-coming-thursday-in-north-texas-bringing-large-hail-and-strong-winds-here-is-what-you-need-to-know/ | 2023-05-03T19:06:36 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/severe-weather-coming-thursday-in-north-texas-bringing-large-hail-and-strong-winds-here-is-what-you-need-to-know/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Tuesday Mornings will never feel the same.
The popular Dallas based retailer , Tuesday Morning has announced the closing of the remaining 487 of its stores.
After nearly 50 years in business, the retailer made its announcement via Facebook :
Tuesday Morning has been shutting down a lot of its stores since the beginning of the year. Retail Dive said, “in its more recent securities filling, the company said it had 487 stores. Shrinking its store footprint to focus on core markets is part of Tuesday Morning’s reorganization strategy for its ongoing Chapter 11.”
Best known for selling name-brand upscale items as well as discounted home goods and essentials, there are 200 remaining now in the nation.
It will be interesting to see if this brand decides to follow the move of many retailers of fully moving their stores online. Only time will tell.
For now, find your closest location to partake in those last minute sales. | https://cw33.com/news/local/tuesday-morning-going-out-of-business-closes-dallas-area-stores/ | 2023-05-03T19:06:42 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/tuesday-morning-going-out-of-business-closes-dallas-area-stores/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Texas is no stranger to good food. So it makes sense that we were featured on a list of the best Delis.
Eat This, Not That! has named Grapevine’s Weinberger’s Deli as the best in Texas. From Joe King’s Pastrami Sandwich to their California Club Sandwich, you can find quality in every bite.
Voted the Best Chicago Deli in the World, as mentioned on their website, the chicago-style deli is also known for its hospitality. ” We offer a pretty large menu so there should be something that will catch your eye, if not ask for something special. You will love it!”
With over 120 sandwich options on their menu, the passion for the culinary experience shows through owner Dan Weinberger.
“It’s not enough to just make a sandwich. It’s the why you make the sandwich, where that sandwich came, who created that sandwich, and what is it composed of. All of that makes the sandwich a critical part of the culinary experience. That is why I do what I do. All Chefs have passion for some part of the Culinary experience. Mine just happens to be the sandwich,” he mentions on his website.
So whenever you are in Grapevine and in the mood for a good sandwich, don’t forget Weinbergers! | https://cw33.com/news/local/yummy-dallas-sandwich-shop-named-best-deli-in-texas/ | 2023-05-03T19:06:48 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/yummy-dallas-sandwich-shop-named-best-deli-in-texas/ |
A new poll finds that sizable majorities of Texas voters — including Republicans — support raising the minimum age to buy all guns from 18 to 21 as a state House committee faces pressure to advance a similar proposal.
Released Wednesday, the survey from the University of Texas at Austin found 76% of voters support “raising the legal age to purchase any firearm from 18 years of age to 21 years of age.” Twenty percent of voters oppose the idea. Republicans back the proposal 64% to 31%.
The finding comes as families of victims of the Uvalde school shooting press the House Select Committee on Community Safety to approve a bill that would increase the age to purchase a semi-automatic rifle from 18 to 21. The committee held a hearing on the legislation about two weeks ago but has not taken a vote to send it to the full House yet. The deadline to do so is Monday.
The proposal has always faced long odds, as Gov. Greg Abbott and other Texas GOP leaders have opposed it, calling it unconstitutional. But the survey underscores how popular it is as voters look to the Legislature to address gun violence in its biennial regular session, which ends May 29.
Asked what they think should be lawmakers’ top priority, voters gave double-digit support to only two issues out of 278 surveyed: “immigration/border security” at 22% and “gun control/gun safety” at 11%.
The idea to increase the minimum age to buy all firearms ranked third in popularity out of 16 legislative proposals included in the survey.
The Uvalde families returned to the Capitol on Tuesday to hold a news conference urging the chair of the House committee, Rep. Ryan Guillen, R-Rio Grande City, to allow a vote on the raise-the-age bill.
“We, the families of murdered children, are asking for a vote regardless of the outcome,” said Kimberly Rubio, who lost her 10-year-old daughter, Lexi, in the shooting. “I want each committee member to go on record so the mothers in their district know where they stand.”
Looking toward the 2024 election
The survey, which was conducted by the Texas Politics Project at UT-Austin, also gauged the latest opinions on state leaders and the 2024 Republican presidential primary.
As he begins his reelection campaign, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz garnered a positive net approval rating, with 45% of voters approving of his performance and 41% disapproving. That was a sizable improvement over the UT poll in February, when the split was 40% to 46%.
Abbott, who is not up for reelection this cycle, saw his approval rating remain fairly steady. Forty-six percent of voters approved of his job performance and 41% disapproved, compared with 46% and 43%, respectively, in February.
As for the 2024 primary, the survey found former President Donald Trump remains overwhelmingly popular with Republican voters, with 78% rating him favorably and 16% unfavorably. His closest competition — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis — proved similarly popular, with 73% of GOP respondents saying they have a favorable opinion of DeSantis and 10% saying they have an unfavorable opinion.
None of the other declared or potential 2024 candidates was as well liked — or as well known — in the poll as Trump or DeSantis. For example, 46% of Republican voters registered a favorable view of Nikki Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, while 17% registered an unfavorable view.
Looking toward the general election, DeSantis is more popular than Trump when it comes to all Texas voters. Trump’s favorability rating with them was 6 percentage points underwater, while DeSantis’ was a net positive of 5 points.
Energy grid, other legislative priorities
When it comes to the legislative agenda, the poll asked voters how important it was for lawmakers to address 15 different issues this session.
At the top of the list was improving the “reliability of the state’s energy grid,” which 94% of voters said was important to some degree, including 48% who called it “extremely important.” That has been a top priority for Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is pushing legislation to incentivize more natural gas power in Texas — and who has threatened to try to force a special session if lawmakers cannot find common ground on it.
The runners-up among the 15 issues included reducing property taxes, increasing funding for school safety and making the state’s water supply more reliable.
Another issue that is bound to shape the end of session is school choice, or giving parents more options for where to educate their children and how to spend state education money on their school of choice. The poll found 60% of voters support “establishing a voucher, educational savings account (ESA), or other ‘school choice’ program.” Twenty-six percent of voters oppose the concept.
Critics of such programs have argued they hurt public schools, but the poll shows a plurality of voters believe the opposite. Forty-seven percent of voters surveyed said “school choice” initiatives will improve public education, while 26% said they will hurt public education.
Voters were more sour on the impact of another issue that GOP leaders have been championing: removing books from public school libraries that have been deemed inappropriate. Forty percent of voters said that will harm public education, compared with 36% who said it will improve public education.
When it comes to higher education, the Texas Senate has courted controversy by passing legislation that would require universities to shutter their diversity, equity and inclusion offices, part of a broader crusade against so-called DEI policies this session. The poll asked voters how they feel about such policies, and they were divided: 35% had a positive view, 32% had a negative view and 33% said they did not know or had no opinion.
The poll was conducted from April 14-23 and included 1,200 registered voters who were interviewed via online panel. The margin of error was plus or minus 2.83 percentage points.
Disclosure: The University of Texas at Austin has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.
The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans — and engages with them — about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
Also on KCENTV.com: | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/poll-finds-majority-of-texans-even-republicans-favor-raising-age-for-gun-purchases/500-14e5d35f-4deb-4a72-b6a6-ad3a0e7f4a42 | 2023-05-03T19:06:54 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/poll-finds-majority-of-texans-even-republicans-favor-raising-age-for-gun-purchases/500-14e5d35f-4deb-4a72-b6a6-ad3a0e7f4a42 |
Border protection officers in Detroit seize 3,175 lbs. of weed in truckload of tires
Customs and Border Protection officers in Detroit last month seized more than a ton of marijuana hidden in a shipment of tires, they said.
Officers at the agency's Fort Street Cargo Facility found 3,175 pounds of marijuana on April 20 after an inbound tractor-trailer carrying a shipment of tires was selected for additional screening, according to authorities.
They conducted a physical inspection and recovered multiple packages of marijuana hidden inside the tires among brown packing paper and garbage bags.
Officers also seized the cargo and tractor and trailer.
Despite being legal for recreational use in Michigan, the federal government considers marijuana a Schedule I controlled substance and its importation is illegal.
cramirez@detroitnews.com
Twitter: @CharlesERamirez | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2023/05/03/weed-seized-customs-tires-fort-street-cargo/70178179007/ | 2023-05-03T19:10:43 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2023/05/03/weed-seized-customs-tires-fort-street-cargo/70178179007/ |
Suspect arrested in 'suspicious' death of Canton man, 70
Charles E. Ramirez
The Detroit News
Police have arrested a man in connection with the death of a 70-year-old in Canton, officials said.
Canton police officers were called to the victim's home Tuesday for a report of a missing man.
Authorities said they began an investigation, which later led to the discovery of the man's body in Dearborn.
Police are calling the man's death suspicious and the investigation is ongoing, officials said. No other information is being released at this time.
cramirez@detroitnews.com
Twitter: @CharlesERamirez | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/wayne-county/2023/05/03/suspect-arrested-in-suspicious-death-of-canton-man-70/70178549007/ | 2023-05-03T19:10:49 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/wayne-county/2023/05/03/suspect-arrested-in-suspicious-death-of-canton-man-70/70178549007/ |
What we know about Hannah Serfass and the horse accident that killed the junior equestrian
Junior rider Hannah Serfass, 15, died suddenly on Sunday while competing in an event at Fox Lea Farm in Venice when her horse tripped and fell.
Serfass was riding her 12-year-old horse Quaxx in a hunter/jumper competition when the horse tripped and fell on jump No. 5.
More on the accident:15-year-old equestrian dies in accident at Fox Lea Farm near Venice
In case you missed it:Fox Lea Farm to host its first Show Jumping Under the Stars Charity Challenge Ride
How did the accident happen?
The horse had just landed successfully and took a few steps to the next hurdle when it planted its left front hoof, according to a report from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. This caused the horse to lean down significantly toward its left front hoof.
“This action caused the rider to then topple forward and off the horse in the same direction and onto the ground,” the report said. “The horse then continued to fall in the same direction falling over and onto the rider’s head on the ground.”
First aid was rendered by Fox Lea Farm personnel and others until the Sarasota County Fire Rescue responded. Serfass was taken to the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Venice campus, where she was later pronounced dead.
How often do horse accidents happen?
A 2021 study from Ohio State University did a survey of several states and found that 81% of horse riders had an injury during some point of their riding career and that 21% experienced a serious injury.
The study found that 10% to 30% of all horse-related injuries are head injuries with 60% to 70% of horse-related fatalities caused by head injuries. Of all the sports in the U.S., equestrian sports are the most common cause of sports-related traumatic brain injury in adults.
Who was the rider?
Serfass always had a passion for horses and has been around them her entire life with her older sister riding recreationally, she said in a March 2023 profile by Ben Baugh in the World Equestrian Center Magazine. She competed in gymnastics until the fourth grade when her mother switched her to riding and showing horses.
The disciplined rider would wake up on her own every day at 6:30 a.m. to take care of animals on her family farm in Webster and practice riding before starting her homeschooling work. She participated in extracurriculars in the Sumter County School District and was a member of the Wildwood Middle High School Track Team.
She rode the entire winter 2022 circuit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala. Her passion and coachability set her apart from other riders, and she wanted to go far with riding.
“I just got into it and never wanted to stop,” Serfass said in the profile. “And now, I just want to learn everything I can about it. I want to keep going with it.” | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/venice/2023/05/03/hannah-serfass-horse-accident-what-we-know-about-junior-equestrian-death-during-competition/70179100007/ | 2023-05-03T19:12:09 | 1 | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/venice/2023/05/03/hannah-serfass-horse-accident-what-we-know-about-junior-equestrian-death-during-competition/70179100007/ |
ATLANTA — Atlanta Police responded Wednesday to an active shooter situation in Midtown and report four injured and one dead.
The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Deion Patterson, is currently at large, and people are advised to avoid Midtown in the area of West Peachtree Street between 12th Street and 13th Street.
11Alive's Cody Alcorn reports the suspect originally arrived at the Northside Hospital medical facility - an urgent care and family medicine facility - with his mother. It's not yet clear why he might have arrived with his mother.
Photos, which you can see below in this story, have been released of Patterson.
Police said no additional shots have been fired since the first reports shortly before 1 p.m. In an update at 2:30 p.m., Grady Hospital officials said three of the victims are in critical condition and another was still in the emergency department.
Atlanta Police said at 2:52 p.m. they were lifting the shelter in place in Midtown and "have no information the suspect is still in the area of the shooting."
"We continue asking everyone to remain out of the area of this active investigation. Everyone is asked to remain aware of the suspect's photos and information and to call 911 if they have any information regarding his whereabouts. If anyone sees the suspect, they are advised to call 911 and not approach him," a police statement said.
A $10,000 reward is available through CrimeStoppers at at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.StopCrimeAtl.org.
APD added they were also aware of a carjacking shortly after the shooting that happened near 14th Street and Williams Street.
Police initially said that vehicle was recovered in Cobb County and that they're working to determine if it was in fact connected to the shooting, then later clarified that it has not been recovered.
"We are working to locate the carjacked vehicle and to determine whether it is connected to the shooting in any way," APD said.
APD said on Twitter that as of 12:42 p.m. they were "working an active shooter situation inside abuilding on West. Peachtree St, between 12th St and 13th St. We are aware of multiple people injured. No suspect is in custody."
Shortly after 1 p.m. APD put out a "be on the lookout" bulletin for a suspect. They say the suspect is still at large.
In one of the photos released by police, the suspect appears to be inside an office entryway pointing something.
BOLO for suspect
11Alive's Cody Alcorn is on scene in Midtown. From 15th Street he reports multiple nearby schools are on lockdown.
An earlier APD tweet stated: "Please shelter in place, or stay out of the area."
The address given in that tweet was 1110 W. Peachtree St. NW, which is a Northside Hospital urgent care and family medicine facility. It was not clear if the shooting happened in that building or outside, around that address.
Northside said in a statement: "Northside Hospital is cooperating with law enforcement following the shooting at our midtown #Atlanta location earlier this afternoon. We urge people in the area to shelter in place and follow instructions from law enforcement on the scene."
Mayor Andre Dickens tweeted: "I am in close contact with the Atlanta Police Department as they are responding to the active shooting situation in Midtown near 1100 W Peachtree. Those in the area should shelter in place. Follow @Atlanta_Police for updates. Stay tuned."
Atlanta Public Schools issued a public safety alert saying several schools "will operate on exterior lockdown for the remainder of the day, out of an abundance of caution, until we receive further information from authorities."
APS said schools in the Midtown and Washington clusters as well as Stanton Elemetary, King Middle, Wesley International Charter and Dunbar Elementary are all on hold for dismissal.
Parents, please stay home. At this time, schools on HOLD will not release students to leave until the lockdowns are lifted. Our buildings are secure and as long as students are inside, they are safe.
All other clusters will have normal dismissal. PLEASE NOTE: We will update social media @APSupdate every 30 minutes on the hour, and send additional robo-messages as needed.
The Woodruff Arts Center is among the area buildings on lockdown.
The Fulton County Sheriff's Office tweeted that they were assisting APD.
11Alive Photojournalist Tyson Paul took video of the law enforcement response, which included SWAT units on scene.
A state senator, Sen. Josh McLaurin, reported he was locked down in a restaurant in the area.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/atlanta-active-shooter-investigation-west-peachtree-street/85-5c178154-418a-49f9-9f65-2d0eaba53062 | 2023-05-03T19:16:33 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/atlanta-active-shooter-investigation-west-peachtree-street/85-5c178154-418a-49f9-9f65-2d0eaba53062 |
Catherine "Cathie" L. Culley, 79, of North Bend, passed away on May 2, 2023 in Coos Bay. Arrangements are under the care of North Bend Chapel, www.coosbayareafunerals.com
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- S.C.I.N.T. conducts narcotics operations in Coos County, resulting in drug seizures
- NB boys, Coquille girls win county titles
- Zonta Club announces 2023 scholarship winners
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- Fatal Crash on Highway 101 in Coos County
- Coos Bay District sells 8 million board feet of timber
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- Secretary of State Shemia Fagan announces resignation, effective Monday May 9
- The Coos County Sheriff’s Office asks for assistance identifying a fraud suspect
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ATLANTA — Officials with Atlanta Public Schools have announced that they will hold students at schools near the Midtown shooting Wednesday afternoon.
One person was killed and four others were hurt in the shooting, so far. Police are currently looking for Deion Patterson, who is believed to be the suspect.
APS officials said that schools in the Midtown and Washington clusters will currently hold on dismissal as the manhunt for Patterson persists.
Authorities said this includes Stanton Elementary, King Middle, Wesley International Charter and Dunbar Elementary.
District officials are advising parents to stay home at this time. Officials said schools will not release students until lockdowns are lifted.
Watch live updates below.
A spokesperson for the district just issued the following statement:
APS Community, until we receive confirmation that the suspect in the Midtown shooting is contained, Midtown and Washington Clusters (along with Stanton Elementary, King Middle, Wesley International Charter, and Dunbar Elementary) will HOLD on dismissal.
Parents, please stay home. At this time, schools on HOLD will not release students to leave until the lockdowns are lifted. Our buildings are secure and as long as students are inside, they are safe.
All other clusters will have normal dismissal. PLEASE NOTE: We will update social media @APSupdate every 30 minutes on the hour, and send additional robo-messages as needed.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/atlanta-shooting-midtown-west-peachtree-street/85-bdca7b3f-975a-41b6-bc21-3f1d5e0e9bf8 | 2023-05-03T19:16:34 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/atlanta-shooting-midtown-west-peachtree-street/85-bdca7b3f-975a-41b6-bc21-3f1d5e0e9bf8 |
The police blotter is a public record of incidents as reported by law-enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty. The information printed is preliminary and subject to change.
Monday, 04/17:
North Bend
• 11:10 am, unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 1500 block of Maple Street.
• 11:44 am, disorderly conduct, Sherman Avenue and World Pawn.
• 12:11 pm, civil problem, 1600 block of Monroe Avenue.
• 12:33 dispute, 1700 block of Virginia Avenue.
• 2:26 pm, criminal mischief, 1200 block of Virginia Avenue.
• 2:48 pm, dispute, 1900 block of Garfield Street.
• 4:06 pm, 31 year old male lodged at Reedsport jail for parole violation, 2100 block of McPherson Avenue.
• 4:24 pm, burglary, 2100 block of Hamilton Drive.
Coos Bay
• 4:12 am, 44 year old male cited on warrant, 1000 block of Newmark Avenue.
• 9:14 am, theft from vehicle/criminal mischief, 3100 block of Ocean Boulevard.
• 10:32 am, 19 year old female transported to Coos County jail for theft III, 2000 block of Newmark Avenue.
• 10:43 am, criminal mischief, S Empire and Michigan.
• 12:19 pm, missing person, 700 block of Anderson Avenue.
• 2:21 pm, dispute, 600 block of S Marple.
• 2:30 pm, fraud, 600 block of Shorepines Avenue.
• 2:36 pm, civil problem, 2000 block of Newmark Avenue.
• 3:19 pm, 47 year old male transported to Coos County jail on warrant, 200 block of Holland Street.
• 5:29 pm, 22 year old male lodged at Coos County jail on unauthorized use of motor vehicle, 3200 block of Tremont Avenue.
• 6:00 pm, criminal mischief, 300 block of S Marple Street.
• 10:27 pm, 41 year old male cited on warrant, 1300 block of Oregon Avenue.
• 10:35 pm, tires slashed on vehicle, 1200 block of Ocean Boulevard.
• 11:21 pm, disorderly conduct, 1800 block of Ocean Boulevard.
Coquille
• 6:55 am, criminal mischief, 1200 block of N Collier Street.
• 9:05 am, counterfeit money, 200 block of N Adams Street.
• 12:03 pm, threats, 800 block of N Folsom Street.
Reedsport
• 5:31 pm, domestic disturbance, 2400 block of Gardens Avenue.
• 6:01 pm, fraud, 2100 block of Fir Avenue.
Tuesday, 04/18:
North Bend
• 12:13 am, 38 year old male transported to Coos County jail on two counts theft III, three counts of criminal trespass II, 3400 block of Broadway Avenue.
• 7:42 am, disorderly conduct, 1600 block of Monroe Street.
• 8:04 am, civil problem, 2000 block of Lincoln Street.
• 9:39 am, hit and run accident, 1200 block of Virginia Avenue.
• 10:52 am, civil problem, 3900 block of Sheridan Avenue.
• 12:54 pm, neighbor dispute, 1800 block of Garfield Street.
• 4:43 pm, dispute, 1500 block of Sheridan Avenue.
• 5:29 pm, unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 2100 block of Lewis Street.
• 8:13 pm, theft of wallet, 1900 block of Virginia Avenue.
Coquille
• 1:45 am, civil problem, 1200 block of N Elliott Street.
• 2:35 pm, theft, 400 block of W Central Boulevard.
• 7:59 pm, theft, 96900 block of Highway 42S.
Reedsport
• 7:33 am, disturbance, Safeway.
• 8:33 am, trespassing, McKay’s.
• 8:49 am, animal problem, 2500 block of Ridgeway Court.
Wednesday, 04/19:
North Bend
• 9:11 am, unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 1900 block of Maple Street.
• 12:06 pm, theft, 1500 block of Sherman Avenue.
• 12:45 pm, 37 year old male cited for driving while suspended, 1600 block of Virginia Avenue.
• 3:46 pm, civil problem, 1900 block of Garfield Street.
• 4:12 pm, theft of meds, 1700 block of Hayes Street.
• 7:19 pm, prowler, 3800 block of Union Avenue.
• 8:47 pm, missing person, 1600 block of Virginia Avenue.
Coos Bay
• 8:15 am, graffiti calls, 1100 block of Newmark Avenue.
• 9:44 am, 53 year old male served on warrant, 1300 block of Airport Lane.
• 10:34 am, dispute, 900 block of N 9th Street.
• 11:42 am, 39 year old male arrested, 200 block of N Baxter Street.
• 11:40 am, subjects with five shopping carts loitering next door, 100 block of Central Avenue.
• 12:30 pm, fraud, 400 block of Hall Avenue.
• 1:32 pm, theft, 600 block of Pacific Avenue.
• 4:01 pm, hit and run accident, 2000 block of Newmark Avenue.
• 4:11 pm, family dispute, 900 block of N 9th Street.
• 4:24 pm, fraud, 500 block of S Wasson Street.
• 6:06 pm, threats, 100 block of S Wasson Street.
• 6:34 pm, 41 year old male transported to Coos County jail for interfering with making report, disorderly conduct II, escape III, resisting arrest and harassment, 1300 block of Oregon Avenue.
• 7:56 pm, disorderly conduct, 800 block of 6th Avenue.
• 8:27 pm, dispute, 700 block of Madison Street.
• 8:36 pm, burglary, 500 block of N Main Street.
• 8:57 pm, 25 year old male transported to Coos County jail on warrant, 1100 block of Newmark Avenue.
• 11:20 pm, 35 year old male transported to Coos County jail on two warrants.
• 11:37 pm, fight, 1000 block of Newmark Avenue.
Coquille
• 1:04 pm, theft, 96900 block of Highway 42S.
Reedsport
• 12:02 pm, theft, 100 block of Swain Court. | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/police-blotter/article_25c4554c-e9c3-11ed-a905-3b48ccb82b1b.html | 2023-05-03T19:16:34 | 0 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/police-blotter/article_25c4554c-e9c3-11ed-a905-3b48ccb82b1b.html |
MACON, Ga. — A Fort Valley man pleaded guilty to his involvement in a dog fighting and drug distribution scheme that spanned several states.
A man known as “Black Jack” pleaded guilty after Georgia agents investigated a criminal organization involved in both crimes.
From May 2019 to February 2020, investigators found that the 43-year-old was involved in “planning, scheduling and attending dog fights,” according to a release from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Not only was the man involved in setting up the fights, but the GBI also said he was heavily involved in the process of dog fighting.
For almost a year, "Black Jack" devoted his time to selling, breeding and sponsoring dogs used in fighting. In addition to taking them to the fights, he would weigh them and determine the amount of money betted on dog fights, the release said.
In February 2020, the man's home was searched as part of a massive raid conducted by several local and state agencies. Authorities said 168 dogs were found abused, injured and neglected.
Photos: 168 dogs rescued, search warrants executed in multiple Georgia counties
A search of his home revealed the suspect had nine Pitbull-type dogs who were scarred, had openly bleeding wounds and broken legs. Items used in dog fighting were also found at the home, the release said.
Prior to the search of his home, the man was arrested after agents watched him sell methamphetamine. Following the drug deal, he was pulled over in Peach County and found with 468 grams of suspected meth and $3,890 in cash.
Although "Black Jack" was found selling meth, investigators believe the group associated with the dog fighting scheme was focused on distributing cocaine.
Investigators believe their operations were based out of Roberta, extending into North Georgia, Florida and Alabama.
The man pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to participate in an animal fighting venture.
He faces a mandatory minimum of five years to a maximum sentence of 40 years for the drug charge and a minimum of five years for the animal fighting charge, the release said.
In addition to prison time, the release said "Black Jack" was fined $5 million for the drug charge and $250,000 for the animal fighting charge.
He is expected to be sentenced on July 10. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/georgia-man-sentenced-2020-dog-fighting-drug-scheme-involving-168-dogs/85-735112af-4840-4b98-b73e-eeaa86d95d2f | 2023-05-03T19:16:37 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/georgia-man-sentenced-2020-dog-fighting-drug-scheme-involving-168-dogs/85-735112af-4840-4b98-b73e-eeaa86d95d2f |
ATLANTA — A person is dead and four others are hurt Wednesday after a shooting in Atlanta's Midtown.
11Alive crews are on scene capturing the overwhelming presence of law enforcement working the tense scene. The shooting happened at 1110 West Peachtree Street, which appears to be the Northside Medical Midtown building, according to Google Maps.
Police first tweeted about the incident at 12:37 p.m. A few hours later they released photos of the suspect, asking people to be on the lookout for this person.
BOLO for suspect
Police said the photos are believed to be of the shooter. After a 2:30 p.m. news conference, authorities identified the suspect as Deion Patterson. Authorities are encouraging anyone who has seen Patterson to contact 911. Officials said the suspect is believed to be armed and dangerous.
11Alive's Cody Alcorn is watching the search for the suspect unfold in Midtown. He is seeing multiple SWAT vehicles in the area.
A witness said he was meeting a friend for lunch when he saw Atlanta Police rush into the building.
The witness also felt that the police did a great job of making him feel safe.
"It was a very heavy and quick response. They asked us to stay put in the restaurant until the situation was under control and everything," the witness said. "I feel I never felt like I was personally in any danger. They did a great job."
When the 11Alive SkyTracker flew over the scene, a heavy police presence could be seen covering the whole street.
WATCH BELOW | Aerial footage of Midtown scene
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also tweeted that he and his administration are monitoring the incident at this time. In his tweet, Dickens said he is in close contact with Atlanta Police.
He also encouraged those in the area to shelter in place.
Police are still looking for the suspect at this time. They are asking people to shelter in place or stay out of the area. The photos below also show the mass response in Midtown Atlanta.
1 dead, 4 injured in Midtown shooting on West Peachtree Street
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/midtown/midtown-atlanta-shooting-active-shooter-situation/85-e3d9af96-b4ec-4f23-8039-04f1ce91a679 | 2023-05-03T19:16:37 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/midtown/midtown-atlanta-shooting-active-shooter-situation/85-e3d9af96-b4ec-4f23-8039-04f1ce91a679 |
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Ballad Health is praising the end of a federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate that it opposed and that cost some workers their jobs. The hospital system is ending its federally required vaccine requirement for employees immediately, and CEO Alan Levine said workers who left or were fired over the mandate are eligible for rehire.
“Ballad Health forcefully opposed the COVID-19 vaccine mandate at the time it was imposed, and I testified before Congress in opposition to the mandate,” Levine wrote in a Wednesday email to Ballad staff members.
A total of 63 out of Ballad’s 13,000-odd employees ended up unable to work when they refused to get fully vaccinated by a February 2022 deadline.
The Biden administration announced Tuesday it would end the mandate for health care and federal workers on May 11 and that it’s also officially ending the COVID-19 public health emergency that same day.
Levine said during the controversy over the health care worker mandate that Ballad essentially had to comply or risk losing its federal Medicare and Medicaid/TennCare reimbursements.
Levine also wrote that “given the low volumes of COVID-19 we are seeing in the hospitals currently, I have stood down the Corporate Emergency Command Center (CEOC).”
Levine thanked Ballad employees for their work during the pandemic and singled out Chief Operating Officer Eric Deaton, who led the CEOC team. He acknowledged the tremendous impact it had on workers’ personal and professional lives and referenced its impact on staffing, which has led to very high labor costs for contract (travel) staff,
“(G)iven the labor shortages we now face, we know we have work to do in order to dig our way out of the lasting impact of COVID on our health system,” Levine added.
He wrote that Ballad “has stood out nationally as a health system that has delivered for its region…” during COVID-19 and is “being held up as an example of a health system that did it right.”
New hires at Ballad will not be required to be vaccinated due to the policy change. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/ballad-praises-end-of-vax-mandate-drops-requirement/ | 2023-05-03T19:20:57 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/ballad-praises-end-of-vax-mandate-drops-requirement/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – The Lewis and Clark Bridge that connects Rainier, Oregon to Longview, Washington will shut down for up to eight days for scheduled deck repairs beginning July 16, the Oregon Department of Transportation said.
During the closure, crews will replace two bridge expansion joints and a fracture floor beam. These joints allow the bridge to expand and contract without resistance.
Within the past few years, the Washington Department of Transportation said inspectors determined the finger joints were failing, causing the beams on the bridge to warp.
WSDOT also believes the failing finger joints were what caused the fractured floor beam that will be fixed. In April, an emergency bridge closure happened after the fractured floor beam was discovered. WSDOT said they applied a “temporary fix.”
The Lewis and Clark Bridge is the only bridge that connects Rainier directly to Longview. During the closure, drivers will need to detour to either the Highway 1010 Astoria-Megler Bridge or the Interstate Bridge between Portland and Vancouver.
Depending on people’s starting point and destination, using the detour routes can add upwards of two and a half hours of travel time.
The Wahkiakum County Ferry between Cathlamet, Washington and Westport, Oregon will run twice an hour 24 hours a day while the bridge is closed, ODOT said. However, the ferry has extremely limited capacity and should only be used for urgent matters that do not require an ambulance, ODOT said.
“There is no good time to close a bridge, and the vital importance of the Lewis and Clark Bridge to Washington and Oregon communities cannot be overstated,” said WSDOT Southwest Region Administrator Carley Francis. “Our goal is to do this repair work right and re-open the bridge to travelers as soon as safely possible.”
ODOT said it knows the bridge closure may create hardships for people who live along the Columbia River and may require residents to reschedule medical and other important appointments.
During the bridge closure, pedestrians, bicyclists and emergency responders will be able to cross. The only time emergency vehicles will not be able to cross is when crews are installing the new floor beam.
To set the new expansion joints in place, crews will pour concrete which needs four days to cure and strengthen without cars moving and disturbing it. The replacement of the floor beam also requires no traffic on the bridge, ODOT said.
All construction work on the bridge that occurs before and after the closure will be done at night using single-lane closures. This overnight construction will last five weeks and will begin June 12, before the eight-day bridge closure begins at 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 16.
The single-lane closures will not occur during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. | https://www.koin.com/local/lewis-and-clark-bridge-over-columbia-river-to-temporarily-close-for-repairs-this-july/ | 2023-05-03T19:30:21 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/lewis-and-clark-bridge-over-columbia-river-to-temporarily-close-for-repairs-this-july/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – The Attar family has a passion for the food they supply to customers in the Portland area from their international food and wine selection at World Foods to the Lebanese cuisine they serve at Ya Hala Restaurant.
The Southeast Stark Street restaurant, which has been open for 24 years, features a fast, casual space to order food at the counter along with the newly opened Fairuz Room — a 32-seat space for family-style dining. The room is now available for reservations through Resy.
“We wanted to create an environment where our mom can really express herself in food in a different way and introduce people to food that isn’t just hummus and baba ghanoush, some more unique and traditional dishes,” said Co-Owner Joyce Attar.
Co-owners Joyce and Pascal Attar’s parents moved to the Portland area from Lebanon in the late 80s, opening Ya Hala before Barbur World Foods and World Foods at Everett – grocery stores with imported food from around the world from Spanish olive oil to French charcuterie, Pascal Attar explained.
World Foods also features a chef-run deli, offering unique food to help them stand out from other stores in Portland.
“Our mom is the executive chef, all of the recipes are hers and everything just kind of comes back to our culture in Lebanon,” Joyce Attar said. “We really take a lot of passion in creating products that have ingredients that you can pronounce, that don’t have a lot of unnecessary products added to them, highly seasonal when possible and really differentiates us in Portland in the grocery space.”
Watch the video above to learn more. | https://www.koin.com/local/portlands-ya-hala-launches-fairuz-room-for-family-style-lebanese-dining/ | 2023-05-03T19:30:27 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/portlands-ya-hala-launches-fairuz-room-for-family-style-lebanese-dining/ |
In the early 2000s, a wide-eyed high school junior entered the Loews Miami Beach hotel with her twin sister, eager to start an internship in the hospitality and tourism industry as a pool attendant.
Twenty-two years later, that same young woman leads the hotel’s sales department as its senior sales manager.
“There’s a misconception that the hospitality industry is just housekeepers or owning your own restaurant, but there’s much more to it,” said Roseline Bien-Aime. “I really wanted to be a doctor growing up, but ever since I joined the Academy of Travel and Tourism my sophomore year in high school, I fell in love with the industry and the traveling, sales and marketing side of it.”
The Academy of Travel and Tourism is an educational program that launched in 1987 allowing high school students to gain invaluable knowledge and skills in the tourism industry. It also paved the way for Crystal Harvey to start her own food service consulting and catering business – Your Savory Fare, serving local, national and celebrity customers.
“I went through the academy for one year and told my dad that I wanted to get out and do something else,” explained Harvey, who was urged to join the program by Ms. Fyler, a teacher at Miami Norland Senior High School at the time.
“He said ‘You can get out if you want to, but if you stay in the hospitality industry you will be successful,” said Harvey, who worked at Carnival Cruise Line for nearly a decade before starting the family-owned food company. “I always go back to that word he spoke to me. It is the very core of why I do what I do.”
While the program sparked Harvey and Bien-Aime’s interest in the industry and gave them a foot in the door, it was an initiative supported by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) that turned a high school dream into a lifelong career.
Since 1990, GMCVB’s Black Hospitality Initiative (BHI) has removed barriers and created educational and economic opportunities to increase the number of Black professionals in the hospitality and tourism industry.
The success stories of BHI recipients like Bien-Aime, Harvey and Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” 2020 winner Jouvens Jean are why dozens of people gathered in Miami Beach over the weekend to play golf and raise $200,000 to sustain BHI and help fund the Minority Scholarship Endowment at Florida International University.
For three decades, GMCVB has organized an annual Hospitality Open Tournament (H.O.T.) to support BHI, which provides scholarships, mentorship and internship opportunities for Black students studying hospitality at local universities. More than $3 million has been raised to support nearly 400 students over the years.
“The whole objective of this golf tournament that we do is to build sustainability for the scholarships that we give out,” said Graylyn Swilley-Woods, director of BHI. “It’s a major fundraiser for us, not only is it a fundraiser but it gives us an opportunity to help bring the industry partners together and support our work in a different kind of way.”
The tournament and fundraiser brunch, hosted at the Miami Beach Golf Club, featured various auction items including a signed photo of retired NBA star Udonis Haslem, and game scoreboards signed by Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan.
In attendance were BHI students and alumni, GMCVB partners, donors and community leaders.
“A lot of times when people think about hospitality, they don’t think about or imagine minorities being in those higher positions,” said Alem Richardson, a hospitality and travel administration student at Miami Dade College who attended the event. “Even sometimes that person’s own family may not see them in such a position and tell them to go for engineering or something in the medical field.”
Richardson, a beneficiary of BHI and prospective FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management student, hopes to one day manage a hotel or own a spa. For now, she works as a line cook at a restaurant in the Design District while earning her degree.
“We just did a study to observe leadership at the general manager level and found that there were few, very minimum number of Blacks in this industry at the executive level,” revealed Swilley-Woods. “So, part of what we do is attempt to not only give degrees but to mentor. We will launch our apprenticeship program with the hotel and entertainment sectors in the fall so when students are about to graduate, they have a mentor and are guaranteed a workforce and career opportunity.”
“It’s important to showcase minorities who are leaders, owners of establishments and managers, because it inspires people like me to know that we can be spa owners or be the heads of programs,” said Richardson.
The Castell Project, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to seeing more women in high positions within the hospitality industry, released a report last year on where Black hospitality workers fall in leadership positions within the industry.
According to the report, the number of Black directors in the hospitality industry fell from 2.7% to 2.0% in 2021 and from 1.6% to 0.7% for leadership at the chief level.
Closing the gap
“Our scholarships are for two to four years for books, and in some cases, uniform,” said Swilley-Woods. “Whether you’re a chef and may need knives or may need to go to a conference, our scholarship pays for that. So I would think the economic impact on the students and on their families is tremendous. It’s an $18,000 bill that someone is paying for.”
Bien-Aime, whose family emigrated from Haiti, says the scholarship played an instrumental role in allowing her to attend Miami Dade College and then transfer to FIU to pursue her career.
“I was blessed, and also my twin sister, because she was awarded the scholarship as well,” she said. “The financial burden was really taken off our family with my parents having 11 kids. It allowed us to just focus on school. My parents sacrificed a lot. The first time they tried to restart their life here, it was rocky for them, so they ended up going back to Haiti before trying to come back here again because they knew that the life in Haiti was not something they wanted for their kids.”
“Not only did Ms. Fyler see something in me, but my father also saw something in me,” said Harvey. “He worked at FIU as the director of multicultural programs and services at the time and told me about the scholarship. I was awarded a full-tuition scholarship in my junior and senior year, which covered books, uniforms and knives. I came out of school not having to pay anything.”
BHI not only removes financial barriers that would have otherwise made the industry inaccessible to students from low-income backgrounds, but also has a built-in mentorship program and teaches recipients to dress, look and speak the part.
Harvey and Bien-Aime, credit mentors such as Alicia Ritchey, Elizabeth Williams and Debbie Castillo, respectively, for their success in the field. Both expressed how mentorship plays a crucial role in unlocking one's potential.
“Mentorship is built into the scholarship program,” explained Swilley-Woods. “We try to pair [students] through profile assessment in terms of what they want to do, and pair them with other professionals in our database who align with their career.
“The opportunity to work from front to upper management to work at the port, the airlines, all of those, in logistics and management, are areas that are budding here in Miami. We think that when students are given experience and mentorship, it affords them an opportunity to have greater access to the market.” | https://www.miamitimesonline.com/news/local/black-hospitality-initiative-paving-the-way-for-a-more-inclusive-tourism-industry/article_39218fee-e95d-11ed-9832-a359a35a6817.html | 2023-05-03T19:33:50 | 1 | https://www.miamitimesonline.com/news/local/black-hospitality-initiative-paving-the-way-for-a-more-inclusive-tourism-industry/article_39218fee-e95d-11ed-9832-a359a35a6817.html |
Miami-Dade Police director Alfredo “Freddy” Ramirez announced this week his candidacy for the 2024 sheriff’s election.
Ramirez began training as a police officer in 1995, worked his way up through narcotics and homicide bureaus, handled criminal investigations and was finally appointed director by former Mayor Carlos Giménez in 2020. In 2022, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava gave him yet another title, that of interim chief of public safety, allowing him to also oversee the fire rescue department and the medical examiner’s office.
“This community and this police department is my life,” Ramirez told The Miami Times. “It’s my family.”
Rickey Mitchell, an attorney and funeral home owner, and Ruamen de la Rua, a city of Miami police officer, are so far the only other two people who have filed paperwork to run for sheriff. Ramirez and Mitchell, both Democrats, and de la Rua, a Republican, plus any future candidates, will face off in an August 2024 primary before the general election in November 2024.
Managing the fear of change
Ramirez’s announcement comes at a time when questions are being continually raised about how the sheriff will possibly alter the fabric of public safety in Miami-Dade County. The independent position will be reinstated for the first time since the 1960s after Florida voters approved a 2018 constitutional amendment that mandates the elections of a sheriff, elections supervisor and tax collector in each county. As of right now, Miami-Dade is the only county in the state where the mayor holds those powers.
The Board of County Commissioners has discussed and taken steps to combat the possibility of a new sheriff, demanding its own police force for countywide jurisdiction. If Ramirez wins, that worry could be put to rest.
“As we approach this transition to a constitutional office, it has to be led by people who have been in this department, that have been in this community, and ensure that during this transition there’s no change in service, there’s no loss of trust, that this community still knows that it’s the Miami-Dade Police Department that’s showing up to their house providing them service,” said Ramirez. “You can’t just come in here and flip the switch and change everything.”
Prior to Ramirez’s candidacy in June 2022, commissioners cautiously voted to retain the county police department as its own municipal force. HB 1595, however, a bill that passed in both the Senate and the House of Representatives in the past week, would prohibit that exact move, granting each sheriff exclusive jurisdiction in unincorporated county areas. The bill is now on its way to Gov. Ron DeSantis for final approval.
Of particular interest is how the new legislation would affect the existence of the Independent Civilian Panel (ICP), which has just recently gotten off its feet since being reinstated in 2020. Many have noted that it could be up to the sheriff’s discretion to retain the ICP as a form of oversight, or else the panel’s work becomes void.
When asked whether he’d voluntarily work with the ICP, though, Ramirez’s response was a simple, “Why not?”
“I believe in transparency and trust in the community,” he said, “and that’s part of it.”
His only requirement is that the ICP’s processes are conducted in good faith and fairness, and Ramirez says he surely believes they will be.
Permitless carry
Although Ramirez’s candidacy represents an effort to keep services on their current trajectory, the police department will inevitably be forced to adapt to new challenges moving forward. The police director will have to balance his campaign with his everyday responsibilities, including how to function with DeSantis’ new permitless carry law.
At an NAACP town hall event April 28, Ramirez, a panel member, addressed his concerns about citizens being able to carry a gun without any permit or training.
“The law is the law right now,” Ramirez said. “Our hands are tied, but where there’s opportunity, we have to educate the community, we have to educate our officers, and that’s what we’re doing right now.”
He says the police department is already working on a video to release on its social media pages that will inform the public on how to stay safe amid the new law’s passage.
At the same time, he sent a message to the public that accountability is present in Miami-Dade County. The homicide department and the State Attorney’s Office will hold people responsible for their crimes, he says, including police officers themselves and community members acting recklessly or discriminatorily.
“Now, we don’t know who’s the good guy or the bad guy, but last time I checked, being a person of color is not a reason to be shot,” Ramirez said to the audience at Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church in south Miami-Dade.
A record of public safety
Also present at the town hall last week was Levine Cava, a close associate of Ramirez’s from whom he says he draws inspiration.
Ramirez was a former Republican turned independent when he first became police director. He says he made the change to remind his community that policing is “apolitical” and that he serves everyone equally.
In January, however, he switched his affiliation again, this time to Democrat, in preparation for his run for sheriff. He attributes that decision to the three years through which he’s seen and helped Levine Cava’s administration invest in public safety, including through the Peace & Prosperity plan.
Christian Ulvert, president of Edge Communications, is running both Ramirez’s campaign and Levine Cava’s 2024 reelection bid.
“At the end of the day, despite political affiliation, it’s Freddy who’s going to be here, the same Freddy that’s been here for almost 30 years and the same Freddy that you all know very well,” Ramirez assured as he spoke of himself in the third person. “I won’t leave anyone behind and I won’t let anyone down, and I’ll make sure that we keep setting the tone and moving forward and being the beacon of what trust and public safety should be in this country.”
That the county is set apart from other communities across the country is a sentiment frequently expressed by the police director. He describes Miami-Dade as “progressive” and “forward-moving,” always learning from its past mistakes.
Ramirez created the Homicide Street Violence Task Force while holding the rank of major between 2012-2013 in response to violent crimes in the northern end of the county, which was later extended to the south following the program’s success.
“I’m there in the good, the bad and the ugly,” Ramirez said. “My men and women are out there each and every day. You see us on TV. When people call the police and they call the fire department, they’re trusted, and that to me is priceless.” | https://www.miamitimesonline.com/news/local/miami-dade-police-director-throws-hat-into-ring-for-sheriff-in-2024-election/article_515290d8-e965-11ed-b2a9-1716f2085507.html | 2023-05-03T19:33:56 | 0 | https://www.miamitimesonline.com/news/local/miami-dade-police-director-throws-hat-into-ring-for-sheriff-in-2024-election/article_515290d8-e965-11ed-b2a9-1716f2085507.html |
Arizona ranked 37th in U.S. News & World Report's best states report
Arizona ranked 37th out of 50 states in U.S. News & World Report's annual Best State's Ranking, released early Tuesday.
The report used survey data to measure how each state ranked in 71 metrics across eight overall categories, including education, healthcare and economy.
The Grand Canyon State was out-ranked by two of its neighbors at the Four Corners in the overall score category, with Utah boasting its place as Best State title nationally. Colorado was ranked 15th, while New Mexico was toward the bottom at 47th place.
The rankings aimed to demonstrate how well each state served its population in a variety of ways, with overall opportunity and fiscal stability making up two of the categories, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Each of the eight categories was assigned a different weight in the overall score based on data averages from national surveys that asked nearly 70,000 people total to prioritize each subject category in their state.
"Three yearly surveys asked Americans how satisfied they were with various state government services and where they thought their state governments should focus resources," the U.S. News survey report said.
The surveys were administered over the course of three years, with the most recent data reflecting 2020-2021, the news outlet said. The results were weighted to represent the country's population across all ages, genders, ethnicities and household incomes.
Health care and education were weighted the most heavily, followed by state economies, infrastructure and the opportunities afforded to citizens. Each category had individual sub-categories to help determine its rank.
See how Arizona ranks in all eight categories, from most to least importance in the overall ranking:
Arizona is 45th in education
Arizona was ranked No. 45 out of 50 states in overall education. The report looked at higher education and Pre-K-12 as sub-categories.
The state fared slightly better in higher education taking 33rd place, but worse in Pre-K-12 at 48.
Arizona had a 77.3% graduation rate, compared to a national average of 86.5%, according to U.S. News. The average graduation debt for higher education was slightly below the U.S. average, at $24,298, while NAEP math scores in the state were 271, according to the report.
Florida was first in overall education. New Jersey was No. 1 in Pre-K-12 education.
Health care: Arizona ranks 24th
Arizona was ranked No. 24 in overall health care. The report based the score on the average of three sub-categories, which included health care access, health care quality and public health.
Though 46th in health care access, the state made up for it in health care quality at ranked fifth. Arizona was 27th in the public health sub-category.
There is 14.7% of Arizona's population without health insurance, compared to a national average of 12.2%. Arizona had 1,954 preventable hospital admissions, below the U.S. average of 2,781. The state's obesity rate was 31.4%, according to the report.
Hawaii was first in the overall healthcare category and in the public health sub-category. Rhode Island took the second spot in healthcare nationally.
Arizona's economy ranked 5th
Arizona ranked No. 5 in overall economy. The score was based on the average of a business environment sub-category, an employment sub-category and a growth subcategory.
The state was ranked 14th in business environment, 15th in employment and fourth in growth. Job growth was well above the U.S. average at 2.1%, compared to 0.2% for the rest of the country, according to the report.
Arizona's venture capital per GDP was $2.31 per $1K GDP, falling below the national average of $7.65 per $1K GDP. The state's net migration was 1.0%.
Utah took home another top title in economy, synonymous with its best state overall score. Idaho came in at second, followed by Colorado at third.
Infrastructure in Arizona is 17th in nation
Arizona ranked 17th in overall infrastructure, based on the average of scores from sub-categories including energy, internet access and transportation.
The state was 13th in energy, 19th in transportation and 23rd in internet access. The report said 22.5% of Arizona's roads were in poor condition, compared to a national average of 19.0%.
The average commute time on a bicycle in Arizona was 24.8 minutes. Arizona had an 11.8% rate of renewable energy use, compared to the U.S. average of 12.3%.
Minnesota is top in infrastructure, followed by North Dakota in the No. 2 spot and Oregon is third.
State is 39th in opportunity
The Grand Canyon State ranked 39th in the opportunity category, based on the average scores of affordability, economic opportunity and equality sub-categories.
The state did not boast a high ranking in equality, at 45th out of 50 states. Affordability was placed at 32nd, while economic opportunity was ranked 27th.
The poverty rate in Arizona was right on beat with the national average, at 12.8%. The state's median household income was $69,056, while the cost-of-living index was 96.7, according to the report.
New Hampshire was first in overall opportunity, followed by Vermont then Iowa. Delaware was first in the equality sub-category.
Fiscal stability of Arizona ranked 34th
Arizona was ranked 34th in fiscal stability nationally, based on the average scores of two sub-categories including long-term fiscal stability and short-term fiscal stability.
The Grand Canyon state was given an AA1 government credit rating, with a state-wide liquidity rate of 2.5, compared to the U.S. average of 3.6, according to the report.
Utah again swept the competition with the top rank in fiscal stability. Idaho took second followed by South Dakota.
In U.S., Arizona ranks 38th in crime & corrections
Arizona was 38th of 50 in the national crime and corrections category. The sub-categories included public safety and corrections outcomes.
The state was 40th in public safety and ranked 21st in corrections outcomes. The adult incarceration rate was 453 out of 100,000 residents, according to the report. That rate is 153 higher than the U.S. average of 307 adults per 100,000 residents.
The juvenile incarceration rate was lower than the national average, at 36 juveniles per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate was 485 per 100,000 residents, again higher than the U.S. average of 399 per 100,000 residents.
New Hampshire topped the leaderboard again at best in crime & corrections. Maine was second overall, but first in the public safety sub-category. Vermont was third in overall crime & corrections.
Arizona's environment ranked low, at 43rd
Arizona was ranked 43rd out of 50 states in overall natural environment. The score was made-up of averages from an air and water quality sub-category and a pollution sub-category.
The Grand Canyon State was second-to-last in national air and water quality. It was 27th in pollution.
The state had more than double the U.S. average of days with unhealthy air, at 228 days out of 365. The national average was 114 days, according to the report.
Arizona had 2.44 drinking water violation points per 100,000 residents, above the U.S. average of 1.91 drinking water violation points.
The state with the best overall natural environment score? Hawaii. The Aloha state was best in the air quality sub-category. New York took the second spot, followed by Massachusetts at third. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/05/03/arizona-37th-in-nation-according-to-u-s-news-world-report/70179163007/ | 2023-05-03T19:34:12 | 0 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/05/03/arizona-37th-in-nation-according-to-u-s-news-world-report/70179163007/ |
I-10 closed in Cochise County after semi crashes into bridge
A semitruck crashed into a bridge on Interstate 10 in Cochise County early Wednesday morning, causing the vehicle to catch fire and the freeway to close. The Cochise County Sheriff's Office described the incident as "a serious vehicle accident" at milepost 331 westbound near Willcox, adding both lanes on I-10 were closed in a 12:34 a.m. Facebook post.
It is unclear if any injuries were sustained in the incident or if other vehicles were involved. The sheriff's office and the Arizona Department of Public Safety did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Arizona Department of Transportation said a little past 8 a.m. that it did not know when the interstate would reopen. The sheriff's office advised commuters to avoid the area and to take alternate routes.
A Twitter post from ADOT stated the bridge's pillar was buckled following the wreck.
The entire area was closed to all traffic and multiple public safety personnel were on scene, according to the sheriff's office.
Updates to the Facebook post listed multiple alternate routes drivers could take, including taking Davis Road then east to the Highway 80 & 90 junction into Sierra Vista then to State Route 90 to Benson. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/05/03/i-10-closed-in-cochise-county-after-semitruck-crashes-into-bridge/70178789007/ | 2023-05-03T19:34:18 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/05/03/i-10-closed-in-cochise-county-after-semitruck-crashes-into-bridge/70178789007/ |
Busch Gardens plans to begin cashless operations next week.
“We want you to enjoy the thrills and beauty of our park in the simplest, most efficient, and flexible way possible,” the amusement park announced on its website.
After the change goes into effect May 11, park visitors will need to use a credit card, debit card or smart device instead of cash. For those who do not have a payment card, there will be kiosks throughout the park to transfer cash free of charge to a Visa prepaid debit card.
“It’s faster, more secure, and convenient, so you can spend less time in line and more time having fun,” Busch Gardens said.
The change takes effect the same day DarKoaster, the park’s new indoor roller coaster, opens to Busch Gardens members. The coaster opens to the public on May 19.
Those searching for a card-to-cash kiosk can find them with the park map or the Busch Gardens Williamsburg mobile app. Each Visa prepaid debit card can take up to $500 at a time, the park said, and there is no minimum amount required. More information is available on the park’s website at buschgardens.com/williamsburg.
These are photos for weekender on closing of LeMans Raceway ride at Busch Gardens. Gary Graves of Hampton is the passenger as his daughter, JaquelynCQ, drives a 7 mph-racing car at Le Mans Raceway at Busch Gardens near Williamsburg.
Halloween fun can 'pop up' in the most unlikely places as these Busch Gardens Williamsburg guests discovered while making their way through the haunted catacombs of the Dark Tower. Guests can experience this and many other Howl-O-Scream Halloween activities at Busch Gardens through October 31. Dana Mihaly Public Relations Assistant Manager Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA (757) 253-3364
A boat load of fire fighters come down the flume as Busch Gardens, Williamsburg opens its newest attraction 'Escape from Pompeii' a fire and water ride located in the Italy section of the park. Comedienne Paula Poundstone was on hand to kick off the event.
Roller coaster enthusiasts, Steve and Christine Thompson, 'have their cake and eat it, too' on the Loch Ness Monster today, September 30, 1995 to celebrate Busch Gardens Williamsburg's 20th anniversary season. More than 75 members of the Mid-Atlantic Coaster Club (MACC) visited the European-themed park to experience world-class roller coasters and join in the festivities.
Despite layoffs at Disney parks, Virginia parks say they are pleased with the crowds they are seeing and have no plans for layoffs. Here, park-goers enjoy a day in the sun at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., on Thursday, April 9, 2009.
Despite layoffs at Disney parks, Virginia parks say they are pleased with the crowds they are seeing and have no plans for layoffs. Here, park-goers enjoy a day in the sun at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., on Thursday, April 9, 2009.
A visitor is visited by a bird inside the (bird sanctuary) at Busch Gardens FOR WEEKEND section. 6/20/02.
DEAN HOFFMEYER
These are photos for weekender on closing of LeMans Raceway ride at Busch Gardens. Gary Graves of Hampton is the passenger as his daughter, JaquelynCQ, drives a 7 mph-racing car at Le Mans Raceway at Busch Gardens near Williamsburg.
Petkofsky, Andrew B.
The clydesdales at Busch Gardens FOR WEEKEND section. 6/20/02.
DEAN HOFFMEYER
Riding der Wirbelwind at Busch Gardens. FOR WEEKEND section. 6/20/02.
DEAN HOFFMEYER
Halloween fun can 'pop up' in the most unlikely places as these Busch Gardens Williamsburg guests discovered while making their way through the haunted catacombs of the Dark Tower. Guests can experience this and many other Howl-O-Scream Halloween activities at Busch Gardens through October 31. Dana Mihaly Public Relations Assistant Manager Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA (757) 253-3364
UNKNOWN
A fireworks extravaganza graces the night sky over the Royal Palace Theatre at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
A boat load of fire fighters come down the flume as Busch Gardens, Williamsburg opens its newest attraction 'Escape from Pompeii' a fire and water ride located in the Italy section of the park. Comedienne Paula Poundstone was on hand to kick off the event.
STUART T. WAGNER
Roller coaster enthusiasts, Steve and Christine Thompson, 'have their cake and eat it, too' on the Loch Ness Monster today, September 30, 1995 to celebrate Busch Gardens Williamsburg's 20th anniversary season. More than 75 members of the Mid-Atlantic Coaster Club (MACC) visited the European-themed park to experience world-class roller coasters and join in the festivities.
Scott K. Brown
Dancers perform a traditional festive Bavarian dance in the Festhaus at Busch Gardens. FOR WEEKEND section. 6/20/02.
DEAN HOFFMEYER
Verbolten is a new ride in Oktoberfest area of Busch Gardens in Williamsburg VA. Photo taken Wed. May 16, 2012.
MARK GORMUS
Despite layoffs at Disney parks, Virginia parks say they are pleased with the crowds they are seeing and have no plans for layoffs. Here, park-goers enjoy a day in the sun at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., on Thursday, April 9, 2009.
Eva Russo
Here, park-goers enjoy a day in the sun at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., on Thursday, April 9, 2009.
Eva Russo
Despite layoffs at Disney parks, Virginia parks say they are pleased with the crowds they are seeing and have no plans for layoffs. Here, park-goers enjoy a day in the sun at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., on Thursday, April 9, 2009. | https://richmond.com/business/local/busch-gardens/article_74c4442c-e9d7-11ed-82d1-239f828b136d.html | 2023-05-03T19:38:39 | 1 | https://richmond.com/business/local/busch-gardens/article_74c4442c-e9d7-11ed-82d1-239f828b136d.html |
Centennial High theatre students win awards for their production of 'Into the Woods'
LAS CRUCES – Centennial High School musical theatre students won the Best Ensemble award Friday night at the New Mexico High School Musical Theatre Enchantment Awards for their production of “Into the Woods.”
The Enchantment Awards are held annually in Albuquerque to celebrate the accomplishments of high school musical theatre students from across the state. Students gathered Friday, April 28 at Popejoy Hall on the University of New Mexico’s main campus.
Along with the Best Ensemble award, Centennial student Angelina K. Silva won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Rapunzel in “Into the Woods.” Kehlyn Houston, Celeste Shepherd and Lena Smith from Centennial were also awarded the Spotlight Award for “otherwise unheralded efforts in a show’s production,” according to a news release.
Albuquerque, Rio Rancho and Santa Fe students took home the rest of the awards including:
- Nori Kai Little (Albuquerque Academy) – Best Actress (“Chicago: Teen Edition”)
- Breton Sego (Rio Rancho High) – Best Actor (“Anastasia”)
- Angelina K. Silva 9Centennial High) – Best Supporting Actress (“Into the Woods”)
- Finnegan McKelvey (Public Academy for Performing Arts) – Best Supporting Actor (“Mamma Mia!”)
- Santa Fe Preparatory School – Best Production (“Something Rotten!”)
- Desiree Lang, Albuquerque Academy – Best Direction (“Chicago: Teen Edition”)
- Centennial High – Best Ensemble (“Into the Woods”)
Twenty New Mexico students performed Friday in front of judges as finalists in the Best Actress/Best Actor categories, along with another 20 students in the supporting acting categories. Five schools performed in the production categories. Students performed solos and medleys and were adjudicated by three judges.
Little and Sego will go on to represent New Mexico in New York City in June during the National High School Musical Theater Awards, known as the Jimmy Awards. Two students from each state will travel to the East Coast for a week of rehearsals with professionals before performing on the Broadway stage.
The 2023 Jimmy Awards are scheduled for June 26 at the Minskoff Theatre.
Leah Romero is the trending reporter at the Las Cruces Sun-News and can be reached at 575-418-3442, LRomero@lcsun-news.com or @rromero_leah on Twitter. | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/centennial-high-students-win-awards-for-production-of-into-the-woods-enchantment-jimmy-las-cruces-nm/70175643007/ | 2023-05-03T19:38:52 | 0 | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/centennial-high-students-win-awards-for-production-of-into-the-woods-enchantment-jimmy-las-cruces-nm/70175643007/ |
A woman pulled from the James River Tuesday afternoon after her raft overturned has died.
Officers were called to the Hollywood Rapids section of the river, near Belle and Mayo Islands, just before 3:15 p.m. Tuesday for reports of a person in distress.
The Richmond Fire Department Water Rescue Team also responded to the scene and located Leah Patterson, 26, of Richmond.
Water rescue workers pulled Patterson from the river and transported her to an area hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Detectives say that foul play is not suspected.
Anyone with additional information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Bridges at (804) 646-8146. | https://richmond.com/news/local/accident-and-incident/james-river-rafter-leah-patterson-hollywood-rapids/article_a9716a74-e9d7-11ed-b2cc-f3a607b7ecd5.html | 2023-05-03T19:39:50 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/accident-and-incident/james-river-rafter-leah-patterson-hollywood-rapids/article_a9716a74-e9d7-11ed-b2cc-f3a607b7ecd5.html |
EMMITSBURG, Md. — Fallen firefighters from our area will be honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial this weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
A total of 144 fallen firefighters will be remembered and honored.
The 2023 Roll of Honor includes:
- Firefighter Marvin Gruber, Community Fire Company of New Tripoli,
- Assistant Chief Zachary Paris, Community Fire Company of New Tripoli,
- Firefighter Tod Steese, Mifflinburg Hose Company No. 1,
- Firefighter Stephen Sunday, Scranton Fire Department.
Gruber, 59, and Paris, 36, died in December 2022 while fighting a fire in West Penn Township, Schuylkill County.
Steese passed away in December 2021 at the age of 61. He had been a volunteer firefighter for more than 30 years.
Stephen Sunday died in December 2020 at the age of 28. His death was attributed to complications from COVID-19. He had been with the Scranton Fire Department since January 2020.
The National Fallen Firefighters Candlelight Service will be on May 6 at 7:30 p.m., and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service will be on May 7 at 10:00 a.m.
Both events are open to the public and will be live-streamed on the homepage of the National Fal Foundation's website and NFFF's YouTube and Facebook pages.
Check out WNEP's YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/local-fallen-firefighters-to-be-remembered-at-national-memorial-emmitsburg-maryland-gruber-paris-steese-sunday/523-d3d101f5-2389-4b9e-b1f9-2f9548b2dc66 | 2023-05-03T19:40:33 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/local-fallen-firefighters-to-be-remembered-at-national-memorial-emmitsburg-maryland-gruber-paris-steese-sunday/523-d3d101f5-2389-4b9e-b1f9-2f9548b2dc66 |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Three people were arrested in Dauphin County earlier this month after State Police claim they stole the horns off of three Norfolk Southern trains.
Maxwell Brichta, 20, of Bethlehem, Jackson Snyder, 18, of Allentown and Jose Ruiz, 21, of Milford, were taken into custody by State Police on Cemetery Road near Chestnut Ridge Lane in Middle Paxton Township on the night of April 16, according to police.
A trooper on patrol spotted the suspects' Ford F150 pickup truck driving down a dead-end road at about 1:54 a.m., State Police said.
When the trooper made contact with the vehicle, the occupants claimed they were looking at trains, police said. The trooper observed three train horns lying in the bed of the pickup truck.
When questioned, the suspects allegedly admitted to stealing the horns from three Norfolk Southern trains earlier that night.
The three suspects were charged with receiving stolen property and loitering and prowling at night, according to police. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/state-police-theft-investigation-norfolk-southern-train-horns/521-d3994dc4-d94d-40ee-b560-97dad3f903ac | 2023-05-03T19:40:35 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/state-police-theft-investigation-norfolk-southern-train-horns/521-d3994dc4-d94d-40ee-b560-97dad3f903ac |
NORMAL — Eastern Illinois Foodbank will distribute food to area families facing food insecurity in both Normal and Farmer City.
The Normal giveaway will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 17, at Normal West High School, 501 N. Parkside Road, Normal. It is open to residents of McLean County.
The Farmer City giveaway will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 10, at Trinity Community Fellowship, and is open to residents of DeWitt, Piatt and McLean counties.
Those who plan to attend are asked to bring boxes or bags to transport food.
The distributions are part of the food bank's Foodmobile Program, a system of mobile food pantries designed to help bring nutritious food to rural or underserved areas.
Pre-registration is required at EIFclient.com ; however, this does not guarantee a place in line. Income guidelines will apply.
Enterprise Technology Manager- STEM/Intern Programs at State Farm Kevin Reeves talks about STEM project with Normal Community High School.
Clay Jackson
Photos: Normal West at Normal Community baseball
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Normal West at Normal Community baseball.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs
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Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/eastern-illinois-foodbank-plans-giveaways-in-normal-farmer-city/article_a31003ea-e9c6-11ed-bcb2-77022ae66588.html | 2023-05-03T19:44:58 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/eastern-illinois-foodbank-plans-giveaways-in-normal-farmer-city/article_a31003ea-e9c6-11ed-bcb2-77022ae66588.html |
NORMAL — Heartland Community College's Political Science Club will host a forum from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday.
The panel will include the chairs of the Democratic, Republican and Libertarian parties in McLean County.
An informal lunch will be served before the event at 1:30 p.m. Registration for the lunch and question submissions can be sent to forms.gle/w7mvNidf5AwNXANK8 .
The event will take place in Room 2210 of the Astroth Community Education Center on the Normal campus at 1530 Millennium Blvd.
Contact hspence4@myheartland.edu for more information.
The event included demonstrations and lectures of traditional ironwork by visiting Japanese artisan Akira Yaegashi, flower arranging techniques, and Shibori tie-dye workshop.
Clay Jackson
Heartland Community College Day of Service
HEARTLAND DAY OF SERVICE
Volunteers cleaned out the basement at the McLean County Arts Center in Bloomington on Friday during Heartland Community College's annual Service Day. Pictured from left to right are Doug Johnson, executive director of the MCAC; Rebecca Schaefer and Carol Hahn of HCC; Didi Skimore, board president for MCAC; David Dow, board member for MCAC; and Matt Lathrop, Jane Pickering and Kelly Ragen, all of HCC. Heartland staff and students volunteered at 21 different sites throughout Bloomington-Normal on Friday.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEARTLAND STAFF
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Heartland Community College staffers Chandler Huffman and Lance Savage clean up trash along the Constitution Trail on Friday as part of the college's annual Service Day.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEARTLAND STAFF
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Wendy West and Kathy Sawyer paint at Mid Central Community Action's Mayor's Manor in Bloomington on Friday during Heartland Community College's annual Service Day.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEARTLAND STAFF
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Megan Rolfs, Raegan Rinchiuso, Nayoka Griffis, Rani Priyadhars and Prameela Sudarsi pose for a photo while doing cleanup at Carle Health and Fitness Center on Friday during Heartland Community College's annual Day of Service.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEARTLAND STAFF
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Volunteers do garden work at Oakdale Elementary School in Normal on Friday during Heartland Community College's annual Service Day.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEARTLAND STAFF
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Volunteers assemble playground equipment at Oakdale Elementary School in Normal on Friday during Heartland Community College's annual Service Day.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEARTLAND STAFF
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs
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Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/heartlands-political-science-club-to-host-forum-friday/article_78e5c104-e9cb-11ed-be91-0f93ddb4b87f.html | 2023-05-03T19:45:04 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/heartlands-political-science-club-to-host-forum-friday/article_78e5c104-e9cb-11ed-be91-0f93ddb4b87f.html |
Customers of UniSource Energy Services, which serves Santa Cruz and Mohave counties, will see an average $11 increase in their monthly home bills after state regulators boosted a surcharge to cover spiraling costs for fuel and wholesale power.
But customers of UES’ bigger sister utility, Tucson Electric Power Co., will have to wait until next week to find out how much more they’ll have to pay to reimburse TEP for similar costs, as the Arizona Corporation Commission delayed that decision after hours of debate over a potentially larger increase.
The commission voted unanimously to approve UES’ request for an increase in a usage-based surcharge known as the Purchased Power and Fuel Adjustor Clause, to allow the utility to recover unreimbursed costs totaling about $104 million at the end of March.
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The undercollected amount represents money already spent on fuel and power, which are passed along directly to ratepayers with no profit to the utility, though they are entitled to interest on the outstanding undercollections.
UES, which serves 19,000 electric customers in Santa Cruz County and 80,000 in Mohave County, presented the commission with several options to make up the shortfall through a higher surcharge over time periods ranging from 12 months — which would have resulted in an average monthly bill increase of nearly $54 — up to 33 months.
The commission’s Utilities Division staff recommended a surcharge based on a 27-month repayment schedule that would increase the average residential customer’s monthly bill by $17.57 per month until the undercollected balance reaches zero.
But the chief counsel for the Residential Utility Consumer Office, a state agency representing residential ratepayers, urged the commission to consider extending the cost recovery over 33 months, dropping the average monthly increase to $11.15.
“It certainly would be a lot easier on the ratepayer, and it shouldn’t cause too much pain as far as moving the ball for the company to collect,” RUCO’s Daniel Pozefsky said.
Diane Brown, executive director of the Arizona Public Interest Research Group Education Fund, said many consumers, out of necessity, will opt for smaller payments even if it means paying more in the long run, preferring the longer surcharge to avoid “rate shock.”
Commission members Kevin Thompson and Lea Marquez Peterson also said they wanted to soften the impact on consumers, and Peterson offered an amendment to stretch out the recovery period to 33 months.
Commissioner Nick Myers said he couldn’t support a longer payback period because of the extra interest cost ratepayers will ultimately pay.
“That $17 a month is working one extra hour at In-N-Out (Burger), with the minimum wage as high as it is — that’s the economy we’re living in,” Myers said.
Myers and Commission Chairman Jim O’Connor voted against lengthening the period of the increased surcharge to 33 months, but the amendment passed on a 3-2 vote, and the commission unanimously approved the amended measure.
The commission discussed TEP’s request to increase its fuel and purchased power surcharge at length before deciding to hold the item for a vote at a contingency open meeting next week.
TEP’s new requested surcharge would boost the average home bill by $13 per month over the course of a year, to allow the utility to recover $148 million in costs for wholesale power and natural gas that have jumped about about 300% since 2019.
Proceeds of the new surcharge would reimburse TEP for about $44 million in previously unrecovered costs and $104 million for a “forward component” that tracks more recent spending, though newer figures stand to lower that number.
The commission’s staff recommended a 12-month surcharge increase that would result in an average monthly bill increase of $12.07 monthly over the year, on top of the current average home surcharge of $6.36 monthly.
The staff’s recommendation would impose a higher surcharge during the winter months when bills are typically lower, and a lower surcharge during high-use summer months, keeping the average total monthly surcharge at around an estimated $18.43 per month year-round.
TEP’s summer season runs from May through September, and its winter season runs from October through April.
TEP’s request for the higher surcharge comes after the ACC approved an average $4 increase in the surcharge a little over a year ago and as regulators review TEP’s pending request for a 12% general rate increase.
Consumer advocates, including RUCO and Wildfire, an anti-poverty group, said TEP’s proposed $13 monthly bill increase is too much for ratepayers already struggling amid high inflation and facing another general rate increase this year.
Marquez Peterson said she balked at approving a surcharge recovering all of the money in 12 months, and other commissioners said they were open to extending the recovery period.
To give TEP and the commission staff time to generate new bill-impact estimates, the commissioners agreed to delay a vote until a contingency open meeting on Thursday, May 11.
Contact senior reporter David Wichner at dwichner@tucson.com or 520-573-4181. On Twitter: @dwichner. On Facebook: Facebook.com/DailyStarBiz | https://tucson.com/news/local/business/unisource-bills-to-jump-11-tucson-electric-increase-nears-ok/article_b3ad7ff8-e94d-11ed-8bec-8364e6c8c351.html | 2023-05-03T19:47:28 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/business/unisource-bills-to-jump-11-tucson-electric-increase-nears-ok/article_b3ad7ff8-e94d-11ed-8bec-8364e6c8c351.html |
PASADENA, Md. — Firefighters are on the scene of a house fire in Pasadena.
Fire officials were called to the 7900 block of Central Road.
The bulk of the fire is under control.
Fire personnel pulled one victim from the fire, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The fire is currently under investigation.
The Anne Arundel County Fire Department is urging everyone to avoid the area at this time.
This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes available. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/firefighters-on-the-scene-of-house-fire-in-pasadena | 2023-05-03T19:56:11 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/firefighters-on-the-scene-of-house-fire-in-pasadena |
TOWSON, Md. — For nearly two years Baltimore County has considered installing height monitoring cameras in an effort to prevent trucks from traveling through residential neighborhoods.
On Wednesday the Department of Public Works announced plans to install seven cameras at the following locations by the end of the month.
- 5000-5001 Benson Avenue at I-695, Arbutus, 21227 (northbound and southbound)
- 3200-3201 Magnolia Avenue at Lilac Avenue, Arbutus 21227 (eastbound and westbound)
- 500 North Point Road at Eastern Avenue (southbound) and 1101 North Point Road at Merritt Boulevard, Dundalk, 21224 (northbound)
- 7900-7901 Wise Avenue at Lynch Road, Dundalk, 21224 (eastbound and westbound) and 8800-8801 Wise Avenue at Grays Road, Dundalk, 21224 (eastbound and westbound)
- 2900 and 3001 Sollers Point Road at Merritt Boulevard (northbound and southbound)
- 6801 Belclare Road at Dundalk Avenue, Dundalk, 21222 (eastbound)
- 101 Avon Beach Road at Henry Street, Dundalk, 21222 (eastbound)
All cameras will operate 24/7 and be calibrated at a height of 12 feet, with exception to Benson Avenue, which will be set at 10 feet.
Violators will receive warnings over the first 30 days. Afterwards, a first time violation will result in a $125 fine. Second time offenses increase to $250, and then to $500 for third time offenders.
Signs will be in place warning drivers of the cameras.
Some vehicles are exempt including school buses, public transit vehicles, emergency vehicles, trash and recycling trucks, home utility and energy vehicles, and moving trucks.
The cameras were made possible by legislation passed during the 2020 Maryland General Assembly.
RELATED:Baltimore County considers legislation to reduce truck traffic in residential neighborhoods
News of the camera installation received positive reaction from multiple council members.
“Keeping heavy trucks off of residential roads will help keep our neighborhoods safe and our roads in good shape, improving our quality of life,” said Baltimore County Councilman Todd Crandell, D7.
“Baltimore County’s new vehicle height monitoring cameras will help reduce heavy truck traffic in residential neighborhoods, keeping our roads safe and in good condition,” said Baltimore County Councilman Pat Young, D1. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/height-cameras-aim-to-keep-trucks-out-of-baltimore-co-residential-neighborhoods | 2023-05-03T19:56:17 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/height-cameras-aim-to-keep-trucks-out-of-baltimore-co-residential-neighborhoods |
MONTGOMERY COUNTY — Two parents are facing murder charges after their daughter died in their care.
On Tuesday officers were called to the 9400 block of Quill Place for reports of a person not breathing.
When they arrived they spoke with the parents, 40-year-old Cynthia Moore and 45-year-old Dominique Moore.
The mother told police their daughter, 17, suffered from multiple sclerosis and diabetes, and had recently been diagnosed with COVID. She said the young girl was having trouble breathing and collapsed.
She also told police the young girl had not seen a doctor in two years.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue responded to the home and pronounced the young girl dead at the scene.
According to police, six children, ranging from 5 to 15-years-old, were removed from the home due to unsanitary living conditions. Two 18-year-olds lived in the residence as well.
An autospy of the young girl was performed at the Office of the Medical Examiner in Baltimore, where they ruled the manner of death as a homicide.
Both parents were charged with one count of second-degree murder and six counts of neglect of a minor. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/parents-charged-with-murder-of-daughter-in-montgomery-county | 2023-05-03T19:56:23 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/parents-charged-with-murder-of-daughter-in-montgomery-county |
LINTHICUM, Md. — Looking for affordable airfare to Puerto Rico?
Come May 5 you will have more options at BWI Airport.
That's when Spirit Airlines will expand service with two daily nonstop flights to Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan.
Frontier is also expected to start daily nonstop flights from BWI to San Juan on May 4. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/spirit-airlines-to-offer-daily-nonstop-flights-from-bwi-to-puerto-rico | 2023-05-03T19:56:29 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/spirit-airlines-to-offer-daily-nonstop-flights-from-bwi-to-puerto-rico |
DETROIT — Sometime next year, semis with no human in the cab will start carrying freight down Interstate 45 between Dallas and Houston.
The trucks will run on an autonomous driving system called the Aurora Driver, developed by Pittsburgh-based Aurora Innovation. The company is now making about 50 trips per week with human safety drivers on board.
The prospect of a driverless semi is scary to many, but not to CEO Chris Urmson, who helped to build Google's autonomous vehicle unit. Urmson, 46, co-founded Aurora in 2017.
He spoke with The Associated Press about the future of autonomous vehicles. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Q: Aurora has said its driving system is now “feature-complete.” Does that mean you're close to putting trucks on the road without humans inside?
A: Over a year ago, we laid out how we were going to get from there to actually having these trucks on the road with nobody on board as they drove safely, full of goods for people. What it means is that all of the parts of the system are in place. They just don’t necessarily work well enough yet that we would trust it to operate without a person on board who was there to deal with rare events. It's this moment where we switch from putting the pieces together to refining and validating the stuff. The next really big deal for us will be this Aurora Driver-ready milestone where we’re confident that with a truck that has the appropriate redundancies, that we’d be able to drive that safely down the freeway. From there we're off to the races, starting to see trucks operate without people on them.
Q: Will you test without operators aboard, without carrying freight?
A: I would expect we will. If you’re one of our customers, they’re going to want to put it through paces a little bit before they they put their brand stamp of approval on it. For us to get to the point of operating without that person on board, we want to close our safety case.
Q: To many, the sight of an 80,000-pound semi with no human driver is pretty scary. How would you address those fears?
A: We’ve used machine learning, artificial intelligence, to teach them how to drive the way that a good human driver does. If you’re just observing the truck and you’re passing it, you probably don’t notice. There are so many opportunities in bringing this technology into freight. While it’s an incredibly important job, and it’s one where I have a ton of respect to the people who do it, it’s a really difficult job. The likelihood of dying as a truck driver on the job is 10 times more than the average American. On many long-haul trips, drivers have to sleep away from home. They don’t get to spend time with family. It takes a toll on their quality of life. So there’s an incredible opportunity to make goods move more safely, to make them more efficient and more cost-effective.
Q: Can you control the trucks remotely if needed?
A: When the truck is driving down the road, it needs to be able to to operate safely with or without those remote support people. But there are things that the human mind looks at where it's very easy to understand. Encoding all of those possible things in software is really hard. As we deploy the Aurora Driver, it’ll always operate safely, whether that person is there or not. But it can ask for help.
Q: You have said that eventually your trucks are going to hit something. How would you allay fears about that?
A: It’s important to recognize that trucks are involved in something like a half million accidents here today. So we expect to reduce that number. These trucks will be sharing the road with people, and people will do unexpected things. We’ll do everything we can to make these vehicles are safe. We’ll have a level of confidence on the way this thing’s going to behave that will be unprecedented.
Q: Teslas on either Autopilot or “Full Self-Driving” using only cameras have crashed into emergency vehicles, motorcycles and other things. Why should we trust you folks when this keeps happening with other vehicles?
A: They aren’t really self-driving vehicles. They’re kind of being branded in a way that maybe is a little bit misleading. We’ve believed for a long time that using a a combination of laser, radar, cameras — inventing our own even more capable long-range lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) — that increases the robustness of the system. The likelihood that you miss something becomes vanishingly small. You had to think about how the different sensors might fail and how you can use different sensors to complement the weaknesses and augment the strengths of one another so that you can actually be robust in challenging situations. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/insider-qa-aurora-ceo-chris-urmson-on-self-driving-trucks-autonomous/287-fe589d59-a52f-4269-9424-9531a24dcc87 | 2023-05-03T19:59:50 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/insider-qa-aurora-ceo-chris-urmson-on-self-driving-trucks-autonomous/287-fe589d59-a52f-4269-9424-9531a24dcc87 |
DALLAS — A North Texas fitness influencer has settled with the State of Texas after the state claimed she scammed thousands of customers by not delivering fitness and nutrition plans.
It is not known the conditions or for what amount of money the influencer, Brittany Dawn Davis, settled the case. A letter from the Texas Attorney General's Office states that a hearing on a motion for entry of judgment will be filed in the next two weeks and asking that the trial date, previously set for May 15, be vacated.
A letter from Cecilia H. Morgan, an arbitrator for the case, told the judge in the case, Monica Purdy, the parties and counsel in the case had a mediation session on April 25 and had successfully resolved their dispute.
Davis has close to 500,000 Instagram followers and 1.3 million on TikTok. She built her following by posting fitness and health content and sharing how she overcame an eating disorder.
By 2019, though, thousands of people had complained that Dawn wasn’t delivering them the customized plans they’d paid for. Davis went on Good Morning America to apologize.
“Jumped into an industry that had no instructional manual,” she said in 2019. “I’m basically going through uncharted territory.”
Then, a year ago, the attorney general’s office filed a deceptive trade practices act lawsuit, asking for between $250,000 and $1 million in damages. They said the plans ranged from $92 to $300 and charged for shipping fees even though the plans were entirely digital.
Davis has continued to post on social media and has even gained half a million TikTok followers in the year since the state filed its suit, according to SocialBlade.
She’s pivoted to posting about Christianity now under the brand "She Lives Freed" and is instead selling tickets to spirituality retreats. Last April, a one-day event in Fort Worth was charging $125 per person.
“Fitness and health are no longer my identity,” she shared in a 2019 YouTube video. “My identity is in Christ.” | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/north-texas-fitness-influencer-allegedly-scammed-customers-settles-state/287-8d7973da-7389-4fd9-ad17-855c284609d0 | 2023-05-03T19:59:56 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/north-texas-fitness-influencer-allegedly-scammed-customers-settles-state/287-8d7973da-7389-4fd9-ad17-855c284609d0 |
Dr. David Sinclair named new chief medical officer for AdventHealth Daytona Beach hospital
AdventHealth Daytona Beach has a new chief medical officer.
Starting May 21, Dr. David Sinclair will fill the role previously held by Dr. Joe Smith, the hospital announced Wednesday.
Sinclair has 25 years of clinical experience as a practicing physician, including 20 years in progressive leadership roles — nearly half of which have been in chief clinical roles for large acute care systems, the hospital said.
“AdventHealth Daytona Beach has a strong reputation for providing high-quality care and I am honored to join the team,” Sinclair said in a press release. “My passion for improving patient outcomes and advancing health care aligns perfectly with AdventHealth's commitment to whole-person care. I look forward to working with the talented staff and physicians to improve the health and well-being of our patients and community."
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Sinclair had been serving in the same role at AdventHealth's Altamonte Springs campus since 2020, "where he led the medical staff, helped launch a local Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, and oversaw the addition and expansion of numerous clinical programs."
He has also served as the Patient Safety Officer for AdventHealth Central Florida Division – South since January 2022.
Sinclair graduated from medical school at McGill University and earned his MBA from Florida Atlantic University. He is also a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
He earned certification in health care quality and management from the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians in 2020.
“I am extremely grateful to have a leader of Dr. Sinclair’s talents and expertise join our leadership team,” said David Weis, president/CEO for AdventHealth Daytona Beach, in the press release. “With his extensive experience and deep understanding of health care, he will help AdventHealth Daytona Beach continue to provide the highest quality care for our patients and improve the health of our community.”
The Daytona Beach hospital has received A ratings from the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Guidelines for the past few years and is expanding outpatient services with a new three-floor ambulatory surgery center and medical office building currently under construction in partnership with community physicians. The $45.7 million building is slated to open in January 2024. | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2023/05/03/adventhealth-daytona-beach-names-new-chief-medical-officer/70180379007/ | 2023-05-03T20:02:41 | 1 | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2023/05/03/adventhealth-daytona-beach-names-new-chief-medical-officer/70180379007/ |
GREENSBORO — A new report from the State Auditor faults Guilford County Schools for not keeping records of how vehicles in the building services department were used — an omission that frustrated the auditor's efforts to investigate allegations of personal use of three department SUVs.
The Chevy Tahoe assigned to the district's senior executive director for facilities and maintenance was one of the three vehicles named in the allegations of personal use that the state auditor's office received.
The allegations also included a Ford Explorer assigned to the director of maintenance and operations and a Nissan Pathfinder assigned to the director of health and safety, custodial services, and logistics. The auditor's office said it initiated an investigative audit in response to receiving four allegations relating to district vehicles.
The report didn't make clear whether that meant four different people making allegations, or one person making four separate allegations, or some other combination.
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The Guilford County Board of Education defended the three directors in a response letter included with the report.
The board members stated that all three of the directors were aware of the district requirement not to use department vehicles for personal use and were abiding by it.
"To be clear, there was no evidence that the vehicles were used inappropriately at any time by any employee," they said in the letter.
The auditor's office called the district's statement "misleading." Without documentation of where or why the vehicles were driven, there was no way to know whether the use was appropriate or not, the office said.
And the auditor's office said it was unable to determine whether personal use occurred, despite reviewing available documentation related to the vehicles and interviewing school district staff.
The report's recommendation for corrective action is that the building services department should start developing and implementing procedures to document the use of all vehicles assigned to the department, including requiring the documentation of the business purpose of the use of department vehicles.
In the letter, Guilford County Schools said they are using a different method for tracking employee vehicle use: GPS tracking devices installed on operations vehicles. The records created by those trackers, the district said, are sufficient to allow the vehicle use to be monitored for appropriateness. And they said district procedures have been updated to require periodic monitoring of the use of the vehicles.
At the time of the state auditor's visit, the board members said, the devices had not yet been installed on the three vehicles in question, but are now in place.
The school board members included a document with their responses, entitled, "Guilford County Schools (GCS) Operations Departments Vehicles Procedures for Use of Vehicles, Effective April 18, 2023."
That document spells out that Guilford County Schools does allow some staff to park district vehicles at their homes in certain work-related circumstances specified in the document, but that staff may not use them for personal reasons. It also says that all vehicles are equipped with GPS tracking technology, which must be operating while in use.
Each supervisor, the document said, shall maintain a list of the vehicles assigned to the people who report to them, and at least once a month check the GPS reports and determine whether each vehicle use was an appropriate business use.
"We appreciate the suggestions and guidance of the auditors that worked with us and will continue to preserve and protect our assets," the board members said in the letter. | https://greensboro.com/news/local/education/guilford-county-schools-vehicles-personal-use-suvs-state-auditor-business-gps-building-services/article_42f58524-e9b8-11ed-8243-c38346dc31bb.html | 2023-05-03T20:02:59 | 0 | https://greensboro.com/news/local/education/guilford-county-schools-vehicles-personal-use-suvs-state-auditor-business-gps-building-services/article_42f58524-e9b8-11ed-8243-c38346dc31bb.html |
GREENSBORO — Central Carolina Festival will reopen at 5 p.m. Thursday with "Dollar Day" and free parking at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex.
Festival organizers said visitors on "Dollar Day" will enjoy $1 admission, $1 rides and $1 select food items. The event features midway rides, games and carnival food courtesy of Michael's Amusements.
The festival will have free daily performances by Roaring Metal Rage, a BMX stunt show.
Organizers encourage residents to visit the Central Carolina Festival’s Facebook page for more information.
Gates open at 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. Saturday; and 1 p.m. Sunday (free admission on the final day).
On Friday, pay regular admission price of $6; Free for children under 42 inches tall, seniors, valid college and military ID. Unlimited ride wristband is $27.
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Saturday is Family Day. Between 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., pay $15 admission and receive an unlimited ride wristband (the ride band is valid until 5 p.m.). | https://greensboro.com/news/local/enjoy-dollar-day-on-thursday-at-central-carolina-festival-in-greensboro/article_b1835164-e9dc-11ed-8687-037dffa218f9.html | 2023-05-03T20:03:05 | 0 | https://greensboro.com/news/local/enjoy-dollar-day-on-thursday-at-central-carolina-festival-in-greensboro/article_b1835164-e9dc-11ed-8687-037dffa218f9.html |
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – This show is not for kids — for real.
Paranormal Cirque is back and making stops in Central Florida this week, with a one-of-a-kind production featuring “death-defying stunts, creepy creatures and haunting performances.”
Prepare to witness zombies, vampires and ghosts in aerial performances and more.
The circus will be stopping at the following cities:
- Palm Bay = May 4-7
- Ocala = May 11-14
- Daytona Beach = May 18-21
“We’re excited to bring this unique and thrilling show (first) to Palm Bay,” Luisa Nealon, Cirque Italia’s marketing & public relations manager, said in a news release. “We’ve assembled an incredible cast of performers, and we can’t wait to showcase their talents to our audiences. This show is perfect for anyone looking for a night of entertainment and scares.”
Children ages 13 to 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 21 in order to get into the show.
Click here for more information or to purchase your tickets.
Check out every episode of Riff On This in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/creepy-circus-paranormal-cirque-makes-central-florida-tour-stops/ | 2023-05-03T20:08:46 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/creepy-circus-paranormal-cirque-makes-central-florida-tour-stops/ |
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – Lake Howell High School asks its Central Florida community this week for the votes it needs to be named the “most spirited high school” in the U.S., a category in the 2023 Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards.
The school is one of five vying for the grand prize of $25,000, what the Seminole County Public Schools district said in a statement would be used at Lake Howell High School to help with branding and to purchase items for the school’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebration in the 2024-25 school year.
Individuals are allowed to make one vote per day through Monday, May 8, by clicking or tapping here.
Other schools in the running include Broken Arrow High School in Oklahoma, Perrysburg High School in Ohio, Saraland High School in Alabama and Vista Murrieta High School in California.
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Lake Howell High School’s application included a video showing scenes of school pride and general excitement set to a song written about the school itself.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/v-o-t-e-lake-howell-high-among-handful-of-finalists-for-nations-most-spirited-high-school/ | 2023-05-03T20:08:52 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/03/v-o-t-e-lake-howell-high-among-handful-of-finalists-for-nations-most-spirited-high-school/ |
Representatives from a Fortune 500 commercial real estate firm will give a talk to the Gary Chamber of Commerce next week.
Anne Rahm, Peter Livaditis and Chris Deutscher from CBRE, Inc. will address the Gary Chamber of Commerce at its monthly general membership meeting and luncheon at noon Monday at the Hard Rock Casino Council Oak Steak House at 5400 W. 29th Ave. in Gary.
CBRE is the world’s largest commercial real estate services firm and a Fortune 500 company that serves more than 90 of the 100 companies in the Fortune 100, according to the chamber's announcement.
"Rahm provides strategic planning, development and brokerage services to government entities and education institutions nationwide. With extensive experience in real estate Capital Markets and corporate banking, Rahm offers her clients advanced execution strategies and customized financing solutions," the Gary Chamber of Commerce said in a news release. "Livaditis leads a team that focuses on providing integrated transaction services to clients in the Chicago market and globally. Recognized nationally, he provides innovative market strategies to CBRE clients. Deutscher, a lifetime resident of Northwest Indiana, focuses on attracting new businesses and residents to Northern Indiana by promoting the real estate to serve their needs."
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They will address how CBRE services could benefit the city of Gary and the greater Calumet Region.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for networking and attendees are encouraged to bring their business cards.
The luncheon costs $25 per person and requires advance payment to reserve a seat. Visa, American Express and MasterCard credit and debit cards are accepted.
For more information or to reserve a seat, call 219-885-7407. | https://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/gary-chamber-to-host-fortune-500-commercial-real-estate-firm/article_74044c8e-e91f-11ed-bcce-f78a6b254a9f.html | 2023-05-03T20:12:30 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/gary-chamber-to-host-fortune-500-commercial-real-estate-firm/article_74044c8e-e91f-11ed-bcce-f78a6b254a9f.html |
A new mural on the seventh floor of City Hall captures some of the city's history.
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Atlantic City officials gather Wednesday to unveil a new mural on the seventh floor of City Hall.
MATTHEW STRABUK
Artist Kelley Prevard described her instructions from the mayor thusly: "He said, 'Give me old, give me new, give me blue.'"
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Former Mayor Jim Whelan's widow, Kathy Whelan, examines a portrait of her late husband. "Jim was an assemblyman and state senator, and enjoyed his time in Trenton," she said, "but his heart was always with Atlantic City."
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Diverse hands circle the city's seal as part of the mural.
ATLANTIC CITY — Mayor Marty Small Sr. was pretty clear when he told muralist Kelley Prevard what he wanted for the seventh floor of City Hall, she said at a press conference Wednesday.
"He said, 'Give me old, give me new, give me blue,'" said Prevard, 33, of Atlantic City. "He has a way with words."
Small also wanted the city's first Black mayor, Jim Usry, included, as well as former Mayor Jim Whelan, whom he called his political mentor.
Prevard delivered, and the final product had its public introduction Wednesday.
The finished mural, which covers the walls of City Hall's top floor, illustrates old Atlantic City with portraits of the first Miss America, Steel Pier's Diving Horse and the Absecon Lighthouse.
New Atlantic City is depicted through portraits of Usry and Whelan as well as with an illustration of hands of all colors holding each other.
Usry and Whelan shared a background of serious athletic accomplishments. Usry, who died in 2002, was a former professional basketball player; and Whelan, who died in 2017, was a collegiate swimmer.
The seventh floor holds the offices of the mayor, solicitor, business administrator and city clerk, "all essential offices in government," Small said.
PLEASANTVILLE — The city’s downtown business district has its attributes, particularly conve…
All floors will eventually get their own murals, Small said, to bring life and character to an old building. Each floor's theme will echo the work done on it, he said.
The city is still working out who will be the artist for each floor, he said, but he knew he wanted Prevard's talents for the floor he calls home.
"I started off as a young Black girl in Atlantic City who just drew cartoons," said Prevard. "I taught myself to draw and to paint. Somehow I ended up here."
She has also done murals elsewhere in the city and in other cities, she said.
The vision for the project came to her while she was at the beach.
"It got dark. There was one little piece of light across the water. I said, 'That's it,'" Prevard said. "Each wall has a reference to light. It's the overarching theme."
The mayoral portraits are surrounded by yellow light, and the sunbeams and lighthouse beams are elsewhere.
"I can say this about 'Good Day' back here," Alma Johnson, 80, of the Atlantic City Arts Commission said of Small. "He made my day because you can see on these walls the old Atlantic City and the future."
ATLANTIC CITY — The Atlantic City Arts Foundation released “48 Stories” in June, a collectio…
Prevard and her sister Sparkle Prevard, who helped with the mural, have a special memory of Whelan, they said.
"My uncle graduated from Rutgers University. Our family didn't have a lot of money. There was no way we were getting there to see him graduate," Kelley Prevard said. "So Mayor Whelan rented two vans."
She said he drove one of them and took her whole family up to North Jersey to see him graduate.
"I was 8 or 9 years old, she said. To me he was like the president. That's when I knew how special he was," Prevard said.
Sparkle Prevard has warm memories of Whelan teaching her to swim. He taught in the city school district for many years.
Whelan's widow, Kathy Whelan, thanked Small and Prevard for the project, and got choked up talking about how much it meant to her.
"Jim was an assemblyman and state senator, and enjoyed his time in Trenton," she said, "but his heart was always with Atlantic City."
On the wall outside the mayor's office is a picture of a large sun over the city skyline, with a bluebird of hope and joy flying in front of it. Printed in the center is the mayor's favorite phrase — which all staff must use when answering the phone — "It's a Great Day Here in the City of Atlantic City."
By the elevators is the phrase "Can We Say 'Great Day?'"
Next to Usry's portrait is a quote from former first lady Michelle Obama: "One light feeds another. One strong family lends strength to more. One engaged community can ignite those around it. This is the power of the light we carry."
In my first job after college got paid to read the New York Times and summarize articles for an early online data base. First reporting job was with The Daily Record in Parsippany. I have also worked in nonprofits, and have been with The Press since 1990.
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A new mural on the seventh floor of City Hall captures some of the city's history.
Former Mayor Jim Whelan's widow, Kathy Whelan, examines a portrait of her late husband. "Jim was an assemblyman and state senator, and enjoyed his time in Trenton," she said, "but his heart was always with Atlantic City." | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/atlantic-city-hall-mural-celebrates-old-new-and-blue/article_fdc03dd0-e9d2-11ed-ad07-b78d91420606.html | 2023-05-03T20:16:28 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/atlantic-city-hall-mural-celebrates-old-new-and-blue/article_fdc03dd0-e9d2-11ed-ad07-b78d91420606.html |
MAYS LANDING — An increase in state aid is lessening the impact of rising costs and helping the regional high school district finance new facilities projects.
The Greater Egg Harbor Board of Education adopted an $84.44 million budget for the 2022-23 school year Monday at Oakcrest High School. The budget has about $609,000 more in total expenditures than the revised spending figures from last year, amounting to a 0.73% increase in total appropriations, and its $77.79 million total operating budget is up from the $76.24 million budgeted for 2022-23 .
To meet these costs, the district is raising $38.97 million in taxes for the 2023-24 school year. This figure is $514,974 higher than what was collected in 2023-24, amounting to a 1.34% increase in the total tax levy. Of that total, $35.45 million is being directed to the general fund, compared with $34.75 million from a year ago.
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Superintendent James Reina said the district was tasked with navigating rising costs given high inflation, as well as increases to other fixed costs that have impacted municipalities and school districts across the state. In an email before the Monday hearing, Reina said the 2023-24 budget did not involve any cuts to academics or athletics.
Business Administrator Thomas Grossi said the district is set to spend $47.84 million, or 56.66% of its revenue, on salaries and benefits; $7.33 million on transportation; $5.25 million on capital and facility work; $3 million on athletics and other activities; and $1.46 million on textbooks and other supplies.
The district has appropriated funds to obtain new computers and other technology, and update the camera system at Absegami and Oakcrest high schools, as well as the phone system and media-program streaming equipment at all three Greater Egg Harbor high schools, including Cedar Creek in Egg Harbor City, Grossi said.
The higher tax levy falls differently on each of Greater Egg Harbor’s four constituent municipalities. Galloway Township homeowners and landlords will pay $19.56 million in taxes to the regional school district this year, which Grossi said was a decrease of about $154,310. This amount is just over half of the total tax revenue Greater Egg Harbor is set to collect during the 2023-24 school year.
Hamilton Township will pay about $14.16 million, 36.34% of the total Greater Egg Harbor tax levy, which is an an increase of $659,477 over last year. Mullica Township will pay $3.78 million, or 9.69% of the total tax levy, increasing about $109,696; and Egg Harbor City is set to pay $1.47 million, or 3.78% of the levy, for a decrease of $99,889.
Tim Watson and Cedar Creek High School football are synonymous.
The tax rate similarly varies across municipalities. Galloway homeowners are expected to be taxed at 71.91 cents per $100 of assessed property value, which Grossi said amounted to a reduction of 0.78 cents per $100. The tax imposed on Hamilton Township homeowners is expected to be 69.23 cents per $100, which is an increase of 3.2 cents; and the tax on Mullica Township is 82.06 cents per $100, which translates to a 2.02-cent increase. Egg Harbor City homeowners, meanwhile, are expected to be taxed at 72.94 cents per $100, which means they are seeing a cut of 6.12 cents per $100. Reina and Grossi stressed that the tax levies and resultant tax rates for each municipality are not set by the school district, but rather by Trenton. The state Division of Taxation set the rates according to a formula accounting for each municipality’s ratable base; the number of students it enrolls in the regional school district; and the number of students it enrolls in its local elementary school district.
“Every year we talk about the winners and losers in the allocation process,” Grossi said. “Egg Harbor City and Galloway are the winners, Hamilton and Mullica townships are the losers this year.”
Greater Egg Harbor is slated to receive $38.5 million in general-fund state aid for the 2023-24 year, a 3.02% increase from what it received last year.
Another $1.55 million in funds from other federal sources is headed to Greater Egg Harbor this year.
Grossi said the higher state aid Greater Egg Harbor has been receiving over the past five years essentially compensated the district for a period when state aid remained stagnant while enrollment increased. Overall, the district is receiving $40 million in state aid, a total that is 47.38% of its total budget and exceeds the amount the district is raising through property taxes.
“The local side used to be bigger than the state side, because those years where our state aid was flat, flat, flat, flat and enrollment was going up,” Grossi said.
The state Legislature altered the education-aid formula in 2018 to allow for more state aid to go toward underfunded districts. Equalization aid, generally the largest source of state funds for Greater Egg Harbor and other underfunded districts, is determined by qualities of the school district and student body, such as the number of students enrolled in free- or reduced-price lunch programs, the number of students who have limited English proficiency and the total enrollment size.
There will be an estimated 2,999 students enrolled at Greater Egg Harbor schools full time during the 2023-24 school year. For these students, the district is set to pay a total per-pupil cost of $21,106.
MAYS LANDING — The Coalition for a Safe Community hosted its annual teen summit at Atlantic …
Greater Egg Harbor also has 24 students placed in private schools and 40 students going to other school districts for special education. Overall, the school district is transferring $625,408 in tuition to charter schools. The budget also anticipates that 532 students living in the Greater Egg Harbor area will attend the Atlantic County Institute of Technology. These students will incur tuition and transportation costs for the district of $2.48 million, which is about 2.94% of the total Greater Egg Harbor budget. Public school districts are required to pay for their students' attendance in other districts or charter schools, which lowers district enrollment and diverts resources from the district. Those out-of-district expenses are only partially covered by state aid. Greater Egg Harbor is receiving 70 students and has a set tuition of $18,000.
Grossi identified competition from ACIT as one of Greater Egg Harbor’s “budget challenges.” While acknowledging increased state aid to ACIT has lowered its tuition, Grossi said the technical school has been diverting students from the regional school for the past decade. He said ACIT plans to build a new addition and expand its student body by about 400, with this growth largely diverting students from the schools nearest to ACIT, such as those in the Greater Egg Harbor district.
“Us being the district that’s closest to them, we’re going to get hit the hardest when that happens,” Grossi said.
Some members of the Board of Education expressed confusion or took exception to the amount the district was paying to ACIT. Reina said after the meeting that Greater Egg Harbor had a developed a good relationship with ACIT in recent years. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/education/greater-egg-harbor-schools-adopt-84-44-million-budget/article_22b164b2-e9d2-11ed-8d05-b75f76221312.html | 2023-05-03T20:16:34 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/education/greater-egg-harbor-schools-adopt-84-44-million-budget/article_22b164b2-e9d2-11ed-8d05-b75f76221312.html |
ATLANTIC CITY — Stockton University on Wednesday held back-to-back ceremonies, one to celebrate its outgoing president and the other to show off its newest student housing.
A crowd of about 100 students, faculty and local officials gathered at the university's City Campus around noon as officials unveiled a new name for the school's first residence hall in the resort.
The building at Atlantic and Pacific avenues now bears the name of university President Harvey Kesselman.
Kesselman was a key figure in university history, overseeing the school's expansion into the city that embodied a push to reinvent the town known for its tourism and casinos.
"Atlantic City holds a very special place in my heart," Kesselman said, recalling childhood memories moments before officials unveiled his name on the residence hall. "I can't help but think of how proud my parents would be that, in just one generation, we went from there to here, and the reason that happened is just one word: Stockton."
Kesselman has been Stockton president since 2015 and has been involved with the university since it was located at the Mayflower Hotel in 1971. He will retire June 30, passing the baton to new college President Joe Bertolino.
ATLANTIC CITY — At least 115 of the city's streets, or sections of roadways, have been renam…
Last week, the city also named a portion of Albany Avenue after Kesselman.
After the first ceremony, the same crowd walked about a block north, forming again in front of the new residential building at Atlantic and South Providence avenues, where Kesselman and other officials cut a ribbon to welcome visitors before a first-floor tour.
Nearly furnished couches and fresh paint decorated a downstairs area leading to an outdoor patio, giving students a view of the former Atlantic Club Casino Hotel next door.
The building features apartment- and suite-style units with a total of 416 beds.
Most of the suites include four single bedrooms, a common area, two bathrooms and a full kitchen. The building also includes a lounge on each floor, as well as meeting rooms, a business center and laundry spaces.
Stockton junior Chloe King, of Pennsauken, Camden County, was taken aback by how well she felt the rooms were furnished. She also appreciated several amenities that will be available, including a kitchen complete with garbage disposal, refrigerator and table.
ATLANTIC CITY — Stockton University’s second residence hall in the city is nearing completio…
"It's fulfilling, in a way," King said. "You see all this stuff, you hear about it, but to see it in person, to see all the hard work that they did pay off, and now I get to live in it, is amazing."
The new residence hall is part of Phase II of Stockton's development in Atlantic City, as it seeks to gradually build up a university district in the city's Chelsea neighborhood.
The first phase, for which Kesselman Hall and an academic building were built, opened in 2018. Talks have progressed between the development company and university about what the third phase could entail, including a mixed-use building spanning 300,000 to 500,000 square feet.
The new residence hall, a 135,000-square-foot, six-story, $69.3 million building, is steps away from the beach, Boardwalk and O’Donnell Memorial Park.
New Jersey Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald, D-Burlington, Camden, said the new dorm is helping the city make strides in transforming from a "gaming city to a city with gaming."
"For too long, Atlantic City has relied on one industry as its backbone, and our vision works with key leaders in this region of the state, with defined partners that were willing to come to Atlantic City and invest, to make sure we could grow around other things than gaming," Greenwald said.
GALLERY: New Stockton residence hall in Atlantic City
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The new student residence hall under construction at Atlantic and South Providence Avenues, across from O’Donnell Memorial Park and near the Atlantic City campus, in Atlantic City, as shown in February. The courtyard, in foreground, will be landscaped and have access for students. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/education/stockton-names-residence-hall-after-outgoing-president-kesselman/article_415703b0-e930-11ed-9ca2-c30456658d90.html | 2023-05-03T20:16:40 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/education/stockton-names-residence-hall-after-outgoing-president-kesselman/article_415703b0-e930-11ed-9ca2-c30456658d90.html |
Five Stockton University women’s lacrosse players received all-New Jersey Athletic Conference honors, including freshman Aubrey Giordano, who was named the Rookie of the Year and selected to the first team.
Mary McLaughlin (Mainland Regional), Drew Coxson and Isabella Marinello also made the first team. Kerstin Axe was named an honorable mention. The five led the Ospreys to a 12-4 record, the second most wins in program history. Stockton earned the second seed in the NJAC Tournament, and played Rowan in the first round Wednesday.
Giordano became the third player in program history to receive the Rookie of the Year award. In 15 games, Giordano scored 43 goals and added eight assists for 51 points. She also has had 17 ground balls and 10 caused turnovers.
Giordano ranks fourth in goals per game (2.87) in the conference, and ninth in points per game (3.40). The freshman won Rookie of the Week three times this season, and tied the school record of seven goals in a game three times.
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McLaughlin started all 16 games for Stockton. She has 38 goals and five assists for 43 points. McLaughlin added 56 draw controls, 21 ground balls and caused 21 turnovers. She ranks in the top three on the team in goals, points, draw controls and caused turnovers.
McLaughlin is seventh in the conference in draw controls per game (3.50) and 10th in goals per game (2.38). McLaughlin was named NJAC Offensive Player of the Week once this season.
Marinello entered Wednesday leading the NJAC in assists per game (1.44), and ranked second in points per game (4.00) and ninth in goals per game. Marinello started all 16 games, scoring 41 to go with 23 assists.
Coxson tied the school record with 34 caused turnovers, which leads the league. The defender also had 41 ground balls, which ranks fourth in the NJAC. Coxson set a program record for caused turnovers in a single game with six on April 8.
Axe also started 16 games, and is a strong defender for the team. She has 27 ground balls, 13 caused turnovers and 14 draw controls. With Axe and Coxson leading the defense, Stockton had a 9.00 goals-against average. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/aubrey-giordano-highlights-stockton-women-lacrosses-postseason-honors/article_7c5330f6-e9c6-11ed-b729-176b157be3d1.html | 2023-05-03T20:16:47 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/aubrey-giordano-highlights-stockton-women-lacrosses-postseason-honors/article_7c5330f6-e9c6-11ed-b729-176b157be3d1.html |
District Court
St. Louis County
Jan. 9
- Dylan C. Wallace, 25, Superior, driving while impaired, fined $50 and one year local confinement, time stayed on two years probation with conditions.
Jan. 23
- Jessica L. Fredenburg, 33, Ely, possession of drug paraphernalia, fined $80.
- Jeremy D. Geiger, 18, Hoyt Lakes, driving after suspension, fined $320; possession of drug paraphernalia, fined $320.
- Willie K. Harris II, 37, Duluth, driving after revocation (offense dated: 11/24/13), fined $200.
- Anthony A. Holloway, 36, Duluth, attempted murder in the second degree, fined $50, 240 months in prison and pay $6,903 in restitution; child endangerment, one year local confinement, concurrent.
- Mason D. Kinney, 23, Virginia, obscene/harassing calls, fined $300 and 90 days local confinement, 87 days stayed on one year probation with conditions; threats of violence, imposition stayed on three years probation with conditions, $300 fine and three days local confinement.
- Jerad T. Konczak, 46, Duluth, driving after revocation (offense dated: 5/23/19), fined $200.
- Kenneth J. Kruse-Koivisto, 41, Duluth, driving after revocation (offense date: 11/3/11), fined $@00.
- Timothy J. Lopp, 49, Eveleth, driving while impaired, fined $50 and 46 months in prison.
- Patrick G. Mattson, 23, Eveleth, simple robbery, fined $300, 37 days local confinement and 23 months in prison, prison time stayed on three years probation with conditions; driving while impaired, fined $300 and one year local confinement, 361 days stayed on two years probation with conditions, concurrent.
- Luke D. McGregor, 30, Iron, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Melinda L. Montgomery, 67, Duluth, driving after cancellation, fined $1,000 and 90 days local confinement, time and $900 stayed on one year probation with conditions.
- Jeremy M. Morris, 32, Elko, Minnesota, possession of a controlled substance, adjudication stayed on three years probation with conditions, 7 days local confinement.
- Charles W. Myhre, 43, Virginia, possession of a controlled substance, fined $50, 9 months local confinement and 17 months in prison, prison time stayed on three years probation with conditions; second count possession of a controlled substance, 9 months local confinement and 15 months in prison, prison time stayed on three years probation with conditions, pay $15 in restitution.
- Brianna J. Nelson, 36, Duluth, driving after suspension (offense dated: 11/6/11), fined $200.
- Bradley A. Nesdahl, 43, Duluth, driving 80 mph in a 55 mph zone, fined $70; driving after cancellation, fined $200.
- Carolyn A. Obermeyer, 48, Duluth, driving after revocation, fined $200, second count driving after revocation (offense dated: 1/24/14), fined $200.
- Jonathan D. Polaski, 25, Superior, fugitive, extradition waived.
- Donovan J. Robinson, 50, Duluth, domestic assault, fined $50, 37 days local confinement and 21 months in prison, prison time stayed on three years probation with conditions.
- David J. Schweiger, 55, Duluth, workers compensation fraud, adjudication stayed on six months probation.
- Kelsi L. Sedlachek, 34, Duluth, fugitive, extradition waived.
- Jeris J. Siewert, 33, Hoyt Lakes, driving while revoked/suspended or canceled, fined $300.
- Addison K. Stickney, 33, Duluth, fugitive, extradition waived.
- Lisa R. Street, 49, Aurora, driving after suspension, fined $230.
- James D. Sutton, 67, Babbitt, assault, fined $300, 90 days local confinement and 25 months in prison, prison time stayed on five years probation with conditions, pay $2,402 in restitution.
- Hunter R. Tekautz, 25, Tower, hunting violation - transportation of a loaded firearm, fined $100.
- Lucas T. Vanbaalen, 21, Saginaw, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Rodney L. Villebrun Jr., 34, Orr, damage to property, fined $100 and one year local confinement, 362 days stayed on one year probation with conditions, pay $1,112 in restitution.
Jan. 24
- Mauricio J. Ayala, 28, Saint Paul, Minnesota, possession of drug paraphernalia, fined $50; marijuana in a motor vehicle, fined $150.
- Suzanne R. Erickson, 51, Gilbert, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Walter G. Fuenffinger, 58, Virginia, attempted criminal sexual conduct, 180 months in prison; false imprisonment, one year and one day in prison, consecutive.
- John A. Gorman, 20, Benbrook, Texas, hands-free law violation, adjudication stayed for six months, $50 fine.
- Kristina L. Hamilton, 28, Eveleth, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- James A. Irish, 40, Bovey, driving after revocation, fined $200.
- Jenna M. Johnson, 19, Eveleth, public nuisance, fined $300.
- Klarissa A. Karel, 36, Gilbert, display tabs of another vehicle (offense dated: 1/27/14), fined $300.
- Stephen V. Knapp, 48, Gilbert, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Aaron C. Lussier, 34, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Ryan A. Morrow, 42, Evansville, Indiana, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- David L. Petersen, 47, Merrill, Wisconsin, open bottle in a motor vehicle, fined $100.
- Frank E. Popesh III, 44, Soudan, DNR violation - ER Lynx Mgt Zone - failure to comply with body-gripping trap, fined $100.
- Brian J. Porter, 43, Biwabik, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Katherine L. Thompson, 44, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Steven C. Toddie, 55, Ely, designated waters violation - possess/use non-preserved minnows on designated trout lake, fined $100.
- Travis J. Weimer, 35, Warba, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Jonathan A. Williams, 33, Virginia, two counts driving after suspension, fined $200 per each count.
Jan. 25
- Colton J. Andrews, 18, Duluth, driving 81 mph in a 45 mph zone, fined $150.
- Brandon C. Baumann, 37, Rush City, Minnesota, felon in possession of a firearm, fined $50 and 60 months in prison; possession of a short-barreled shotgun, 26 months in prison, concurrent.
- Nathaniel X. Blake, 19, Eveleth, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Kenneth M. Contreras, 22, give peace officer false information, fined $300 and 90 days local confinement, 87 days stayed on one year probation; possession of a controlled substance, adjudication stayed on one year probation with conditions, fined $300; driving while impaired, fined $300 and 90 days local confinement, time stayed on one year probation with conditions.
- Bailey J. A. Dewhurst, 26, Aurora, driving after suspension, fined $250.
- Hailie N. Falk, 23, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $250; hands-free law violation, fined $250.
- William D. Fosse, 35, Sturgeon Lake, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Jeremy D. Geiger, 18, Hoyt Lakes, driving after suspension, fined $200; possession of drug paraphernalia, fined $50.
- Boris J. Goritchan, 61, Duluth, violation of a restraining order, adjudication stayed for one year, $200 fine with $150 stayed.
- Aaron M. A. Griffith, 36, Cook, disorderly conduct, adjudication stayed for one year, $50 fine and one day local confinement.
- Noah W. Grode, 24, Oakdale, Minnesota, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Keagan W. Guiley, 33, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $250.
- Dale C. Haavisto, 36, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Jorden S. Halloranredisi, 25, Hoffman Estates, Illinois, open bottle in a motor vehicle, fined $100.
- Christopher A. Heishman, 40, Eveleth, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Krista M. Huewe, 21, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Kyler J. Jensen, 42, Tower, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Jacob E. Jensrud, 18, Hibbing, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Cody J. D. Johnson, 37, Eveleth, two counts driving after suspension, fined $200 per each count.
- Jacob L. Kivela-Sandnas, 34, Duluth, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Zachary M. King, 39, Hibbing, marijuana in a motor vehicle, fined $150.
- Joshua J. Lehtinen, 36, Aurora, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Nichoals E. Lierman, 24, Virgina, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Chanler N. Lokken, 21, Bovey, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Jason D. Maki, 49, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $225.
- Seth J. Martin, 35, Chisholm, driving after suspension, fined $260.
- Joseph A. McLaughlin, 58, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Nathanial C. Mitchell, 38, Britt, driving after suspension, adjudication stayed for six months, $50 fine.
- Ginger E. Moats, 40, Ely, open bottle in a motor vehicle, fined $100.
- Erin L. Ningen, 56, Hibbing, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Michael S. Nitzschke, 33, Zim, fleeing a peace officer, fined $300 and 90 days local confinement, time stayed on one year probation.
- Justin L. Parise, 30, Buhl, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Nickolas A. Pierce, 17, Cook, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Edward J. Pospeck, 64, Hoyt Lakes, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Edwin J. R. Quinones, 42, Hibbing, driving after suspension, fined $200; display cancel/revoked/suspended or stolen plates, fined $300.
- Doris A. Radtke, 51, Hoyt Lakes, ATV violation - allow unlawful youthful operation, fined $100.
- Timothy J. Raymond, 53, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Daniel G. Roach, 49, Cloquet, operating a motor vehicle with a prohibited blood-alcohol content, fined $2,000 and one year local confinement, time and $1,900 stayed on two years probation with conditions.
- Taylor L. Rose, 26, Mountain Iron, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Shawna R. Roulston, 27, Superior, driving after suspension (offense dated: 11/6/18), fined $200.
- Eli D. Rudolph, 21, Chisholm, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Christopher J. Runningbear, 51, Virginia, damage to property, fined $50 and 90 days local confinement, time stayed on one year probation.
- Zion K. D. Sanford, 23, Minneapolis, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Howard K. Shaw, 49, Cambridge, Minnesota, two counts driving after suspension, fined $260 per each count.
- Gary M. Stillwell, 37, Kinney, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Austin J. Swanson, 28, Winton, Minnesota, driving while impaired, adjudication stayed on one year probation with conditions, $250 fine and 194 days local confinement; assault, adjudication stayed on four years probation with conditions, fined $250 and 194 days local confinement, concurrent.
- Dyani M. Taylor, 20, Minneapolis, possession of marijuana in a motor vehicle, fined $150.
- Benjamin E. Wilhelm, 43, Biwabik, driving after suspension, fined $225.
- Jonathan A. Williams, 33, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
Jan. 26
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- Daniel J. Hofsommer, 50, Aurora, forestry violation - fail to obtain consent to remove decorative tree boughs, fined $100.
- Sherry L. Koskiniemi, 60, Gilbert, driving after revocation, fined $200.
- Jordan T. Lagrew, 41, Minneapolis, fish and game violation - take fish without a license, fined $100.
- Christina D. Lindbeck, 43, Hoyt Lakes, forestry violation - fail to obtain consent to remove decorative tree boughs, fined $100.
- Joseph A. McLaughlin, 58, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Wade T. Osborne, 33, Hoyt Lakes, driving after revocation, fined $200.
- Jacob J. Potocnik, 32, Biwabik, driving after suspension, fined $200.
- Chelsey A. Tibbetts, 34, Chisholm, hands-free law violation, fined $50.
- Jonathan A. Williams, 33, Virginia, driving after suspension, fined $200.
The News Tribune publishes Matters of Record as part of its obligation to serve as a keeper of the local historical record. All items are public records submitted by the courthouse in Duluth. Most defendants are also ordered to pay court and/or surcharge fees. Individual requests for items to be withheld will not be granted. | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/matters-of-record-for-may-3-2023 | 2023-05-03T20:20:49 | 1 | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/matters-of-record-for-may-3-2023 |
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will open its Community Charging Rebates Program in June, setting aside millions to help jump start Oregonians' transition to electric vehicles (EVs).
"In our battle with climate change, you know, time is carbon," said Jim Swenson. He's part of the community of seniors at PDX Commons, a 27-unit intentional senior community in Southeast Portland.
When the complex opened in 2017, it had a few EV charging ports but not enough to meet today's increasing demand. "We polled our members and within the next year or two, we figure there'll be at least a dozen new electric vehicles that people will be buying," Swenson said.
So it's time for expensive upgrades, like a new electrical panel and five new EV charging ports. Those upgrades are estimated to cost more than $20,000, enough to break most budgets.
To overcome that financial burden, ODOT is unlocking $1.75 million in funding between June and August, or until the fund runs out.
Forth, a local nonprofit, is helping to answer questions about the program and eligibility requirements, which are pretty straightforward for this initial round of funding
"We hold bi-weekly information sessions and we've got a lot of interest from local business owners and people in rural communities who are eager to apply," said Brittney Breen of Forth. "Everyone's asking when the application will open and how to apply. So yeah, people are definitely very excited about the funding."
ODOT said $1.225 million, or 70% of the initial funding, will be offered to rural and disadvantaged communities. The other 30%, or $525,000, will go to non-priority communities.
PDX Commons falls under the multi-family housing category.
"Normally in our budgeting process, we would do one of these every year or so. It would take three to five years to cover the whole garage," Swenson said. "This program advances that significantly, and we can do it in six months."
Chris McGinness is a meteorologist and reporter for KGW. Got a story idea or a great photo you want to share? Email him at cmcginness@kgw.com or reach out on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram. | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/good-energy/oregon-rebates-electric-vehicle-charging-installation/283-502b1b4a-a099-4512-8963-18e251b21d6b | 2023-05-03T20:20:49 | 1 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/good-energy/oregon-rebates-electric-vehicle-charging-installation/283-502b1b4a-a099-4512-8963-18e251b21d6b |
DULUTH — A mild winter led to lower first-quarter profits for a Duluth-based energy company, but the restart of several large industrial facilities in the Northland will likely bring the rest of the year's earnings in line with expectations.
Allete, the parent company of Minnesota Power, reported first-quarter earnings of $1.02 per share on a profit of $58.2 million, compared to $1.24 per share on a profit of $66.3 million in the first quarter of last year.
In a call with investors Wednesday morning, company officials said first-quarter results were down slightly due to a more moderate winter.
Minnesota Power reported a profit of $40.6 million in the quarter, down from $51.5 million in the same quarter last year.
Steve Morris, Allete's senior vice president and chief financial officer, told investors that was due to the timing of refunding interim rate reserves "and lower kilowatt-hour sales due to milder winter-weather conditions as compared to last year. Also impacting 2023 was higher operating and maintenance expense."
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But last week, two large industrial facilities — Cleveland Cliffs' Northshore Mining, a customer of Minnesota Power, and Cenovus Energy's Superior Refinery, a customer of Allete's Superior Water Light & Power — announced they were restarting, which will boost earnings for the rest of the year.
"Although weather conditions in the quarter did affect our results, we are on track and reaffirming Allete's original full-year earnings guidance range of $3.55 to $3.85 per share," Bethany Owen, chair, president and CEO of Allete, said in the call.
Frank Frederickson, Minnesota Power's chief financial and strategy officer, told investors that the taconite industry is benefiting from a strong automotive industry and the mines are expected to produce more taconite than originally expected.
"So that's really where we've seen that offset come in a little bit stronger," Frederickson.
Allete Clean Energy also saw lower earnings, reporting $8.5 million in first-quarter profits, down from $16.5 million in the same quarter last year.
Last year's profit was higher as it includes now-decommissioned legacy facilities at its Northern Wind site in southwestern Minnesota.
Like Minnesota Power, Allete Clean Energy was impacted by the weather and higher maintenance and operating expenses.
"Income in 2023 reflects lower wind resources and availability across much of the fleet," Morris said.
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However, the April sale of Red Barn Energy, a 28-turbine and 92-megawatt project in Grant County, Wisconsin, is expected to boost Allete Clean Energy's second-quarter results.
"We do expect some of the negative weather impacts in the first quarter to be offset by the profitable sale of the Red Barn project and the second quarter this year," Morris said. | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/warmer-winter-hampers-alletes-first-quarter-results | 2023-05-03T20:20:59 | 0 | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/warmer-winter-hampers-alletes-first-quarter-results |
ABILENE, Texas — Two people died Wednesday in what the Abilene Police Department said was a murder/suicide.
APD to the call of an injured person at a home on South 6th Street. Officers found two people with gunshot wounds in the home.
A woman, identified as Michelle McClure, 54, was taken to the hospital with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. She was later pronounced dead.
A second person, a juvenile male, was also found in the home with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say both McClure and the juvenile lived at the home.
A preliminary investigation shows McClure shot the juvenile before turning the weapon on herself.
Next of kin notification has been made. The APD said the investigation is ongoing. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/abilene-police-two-people-dead-in-apparent-murdersuicide/504-4ff1155d-789e-4a6f-b563-dbc2d835f9cd | 2023-05-03T20:29:32 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/abilene-police-two-people-dead-in-apparent-murdersuicide/504-4ff1155d-789e-4a6f-b563-dbc2d835f9cd |
TROUP, Texas — Editor's Note: The above video was published on April 30, 2023.
An East Texas native making waves in the national football sphere made a special visit to his niece's first-grade class at Troup ISD Wednesday morning.
DeMarvion Overshown is a former Arp Tiger and University of Texas linebacker who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys last Friday, but to his young niece Kynleigh he is known as "Uncle D."
He was selected as the 90th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Troup ISD shared that because she's so proud of her uncle, Kynleigh invited Overshown to her class at Troup Elementary School.
Overshown told Mrs. Groom's first-grade class that he started playing football at their age and played other sports as well. He said he dreamed of playing football for the Dallas Cowboys since he was in the third grade.
"DeMarvion visited with his niece's class, answered lots of questions from classmates, signed autographs (in cursive!), and took lots of pictures," the school district said. "Then the kids took him to the playground for recess!"
He also reminded the students to stretch before getting active and that in life, sometime you win and other times you lose. He encouraged the kids to keep working at their goals. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/former-arp-tiger-dallas-cowboys-draft-pick-demarvion-overshown-visits-nieces-first-grade-class-at-troup-elementary/501-93b868b5-6453-4182-8093-36bfa592df4c | 2023-05-03T20:29:39 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/former-arp-tiger-dallas-cowboys-draft-pick-demarvion-overshown-visits-nieces-first-grade-class-at-troup-elementary/501-93b868b5-6453-4182-8093-36bfa592df4c |
JONES COUNTY, Texas — A Garland man is dead after the vehicle he was a passenger in crashed when its driver led Texas Department of Public Safety troopers on a chase.
DPS said at approximately 6:56 a.m. Wednesday, troopers were involved in a pursuit of a fleeing driver that ended in a multiple-vehicle crash in Jones County on US Hwy 277.
A DPS trooper tried to conduct a traffic stop on a car speeding on Interstate 20 at milepost 273. The driver refused to stop and sped away from the trooper. The pursuit continued on multiple roadways and directions in the northwest Taylor County area and continued north on US 277 into Jones County for several miles.
The suspect, later identified as Jacobe Jabar Johnson, 22, of Arlington, reversed directions, fleeing back toward Abilene on US 277. Troopers deployed spike systems to stop Johnson's vehicle. He tried to avoid the spikes traveling into and across the northbound lanes of US 277, crashing into two vehicle that were traveling north.
Both drivers were injured and taken to a local hospital with various injuries.
Johnson had a passenger, identified as Aaron Earl Rattler, 27, of Garland, who was also injured in the crash and was taken to Hendrick Medical Center South for treatment. Rattler died from his injuries.
Johnson will be charged with evading arrest or detention in a vehicle, a felony, and booked into the Jones County Jail. He will be charged with additional crimes as they are revealed in the investigation, which DPS said is ongoing. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/one-dead-after-dps-pursuit-ends-with-multi-vehicle-crash-in-jones-co-wednesday-morning/504-9b49df8a-35ff-400a-8010-aa450294d368 | 2023-05-03T20:29:42 | 0 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/one-dead-after-dps-pursuit-ends-with-multi-vehicle-crash-in-jones-co-wednesday-morning/504-9b49df8a-35ff-400a-8010-aa450294d368 |
A new poll finds that sizable majorities of Texas voters — including Republicans — support raising the minimum age to buy all guns from 18 to 21 as a state House committee faces pressure to advance a similar proposal.
Released Wednesday, the survey from the University of Texas at Austin found 76% of voters support “raising the legal age to purchase any firearm from 18 years of age to 21 years of age.” Twenty percent of voters oppose the idea. Republicans back the proposal 64% to 31%.
The finding comes as families of victims of the Uvalde school shooting press the House Select Committee on Community Safety to approve a bill that would increase the age to purchase a semi-automatic rifle from 18 to 21. The committee held a hearing on the legislation about two weeks ago but has not taken a vote to send it to the full House yet. The deadline to do so is Monday.
The proposal has always faced long odds, as Gov. Greg Abbott and other Texas GOP leaders have opposed it, calling it unconstitutional. But the survey underscores how popular it is as voters look to the Legislature to address gun violence in its biennial regular session, which ends May 29.
Asked what they think should be lawmakers’ top priority, voters gave double-digit support to only two issues out of 278 surveyed: “immigration/border security” at 22% and “gun control/gun safety” at 11%.
The idea to increase the minimum age to buy all firearms ranked third in popularity out of 16 legislative proposals included in the survey.
The Uvalde families returned to the Capitol on Tuesday to hold a news conference urging the chair of the House committee, Rep. Ryan Guillen, R-Rio Grande City, to allow a vote on the raise-the-age bill.
“We, the families of murdered children, are asking for a vote regardless of the outcome,” said Kimberly Rubio, who lost her 10-year-old daughter, Lexi, in the shooting. “I want each committee member to go on record so the mothers in their district know where they stand.”
Looking toward the 2024 election
The survey, which was conducted by the Texas Politics Project at UT-Austin, also gauged the latest opinions on state leaders and the 2024 Republican presidential primary.
As he begins his reelection campaign, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz garnered a positive net approval rating, with 45% of voters approving of his performance and 41% disapproving. That was a sizable improvement over the UT poll in February, when the split was 40% to 46%.
Abbott, who is not up for reelection this cycle, saw his approval rating remain fairly steady. Forty-six percent of voters approved of his job performance and 41% disapproved, compared with 46% and 43%, respectively, in February.
As for the 2024 primary, the survey found former President Donald Trump remains overwhelmingly popular with Republican voters, with 78% rating him favorably and 16% unfavorably. His closest competition — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis — proved similarly popular, with 73% of GOP respondents saying they have a favorable opinion of DeSantis and 10% saying they have an unfavorable opinion.
None of the other declared or potential 2024 candidates was as well liked — or as well known — in the poll as Trump or DeSantis. For example, 46% of Republican voters registered a favorable view of Nikki Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, while 17% registered an unfavorable view.
Looking toward the general election, DeSantis is more popular than Trump when it comes to all Texas voters. Trump’s favorability rating with them was 6 percentage points underwater, while DeSantis’ was a net positive of 5 points.
Energy grid, other legislative priorities
When it comes to the legislative agenda, the poll asked voters how important it was for lawmakers to address 15 different issues this session.
At the top of the list was improving the “reliability of the state’s energy grid,” which 94% of voters said was important to some degree, including 48% who called it “extremely important.” That has been a top priority for Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is pushing legislation to incentivize more natural gas power in Texas — and who has threatened to try to force a special session if lawmakers cannot find common ground on it.
The runners-up among the 15 issues included reducing property taxes, increasing funding for school safety and making the state’s water supply more reliable.
Another issue that is bound to shape the end of session is school choice, or giving parents more options for where to educate their children and how to spend state education money on their school of choice. The poll found 60% of voters support “establishing a voucher, educational savings account (ESA), or other ‘school choice’ program.” Twenty-six percent of voters oppose the concept.
Critics of such programs have argued they hurt public schools, but the poll shows a plurality of voters believe the opposite. Forty-seven percent of voters surveyed said “school choice” initiatives will improve public education, while 26% said they will hurt public education.
Voters were more sour on the impact of another issue that GOP leaders have been championing: removing books from public school libraries that have been deemed inappropriate. Forty percent of voters said that will harm public education, compared with 36% who said it will improve public education.
When it comes to higher education, the Texas Senate has courted controversy by passing legislation that would require universities to shutter their diversity, equity and inclusion offices, part of a broader crusade against so-called DEI policies this session. The poll asked voters how they feel about such policies, and they were divided: 35% had a positive view, 32% had a negative view and 33% said they did not know or had no opinion.
The poll was conducted from April 14-23 and included 1,200 registered voters who were interviewed via online panel. The margin of error was plus or minus 2.83 percentage points.
Disclosure: The University of Texas at Austin has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.
The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans — and engages with them — about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
Also on KCENTV.com: | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/poll-finds-majority-of-texans-even-republicans-favor-raising-age-for-gun-purchases/500-14e5d35f-4deb-4a72-b6a6-ad3a0e7f4a42 | 2023-05-03T20:29:43 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/poll-finds-majority-of-texans-even-republicans-favor-raising-age-for-gun-purchases/500-14e5d35f-4deb-4a72-b6a6-ad3a0e7f4a42 |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry announced that Oscar-nominated actor Bradley Cooper will headline the 39th annual Pa. Chamber Dinner.
The dinner, a "Celebration of Pennsylvania" will be held on Monday, Oct. 2 at the Hershey Lodge and will feature a fireside chat with the actor, director, writer, and producer, who was born and raised outside of Philadelphia.
“As the Pennsylvania Chamber strives to showcase what sets our state apart and attract top talent to market the Commonwealth, Bradley Cooper stands out as one of the most well-known and respected Pennsylvanians and entertainers in the world," said PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein.
"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to chat with him about his ongoing connections to his home state, his incredible film career and lessons in leadership, his love for Pa. sports teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, and how we can all work together to elevate Pennsylvania on the national and global stage,” he continued.
Cooper, a nine-time Oscar nominee, is currently in production on "Maestro," a story he co-wrote and is directing, producing, and starring in.
He can be heard as the voice of “Rocket Raccoon” in "Thor: Love and Thunder" and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3." Additional film credits include Oscar-nominated films "American Sniper," "American Hustle," and "Silver Linings Playbook," among plenty of other credits.
Cooper made his directorial debut with the Oscar-nominated film "A Star is Born," which he co-wrote, produced, and starred in. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards.
Cooper graduated with honors in the English program at Georgetown University. After moving to New York City, he obtained his Masters in the Fine Arts program at the Actors Studio Drama School.
Following the conversation with Cooper, and for the first time in PA Chamber Dinner history, the program will include a musical performance by another Pennsylvania native – award-winning and multi-platinum recording artist Gabby Barrett, who was born and raised in the Pittsburgh area.
“Gabby Barrett hails from western Pennsylvania, and from her breakout appearance on "American Idol" to the steady stream of top hits she’s released since, there’s no doubt that she is one of the fastest rising stars in the country,” Bernstein said. “We can’t wait to have her launch our dinner’s inaugural musical performance and showcase Pennsylvania’s incredible homegrown talent. This is an event no one will want to miss!”
Barrett first skyrocketed to stardom with her record-breaking, No. 1, seven-times platinum debut, “I Hope,” which ruled the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for 27 weeks. She has followed the success with massive singles such as three-times platinum, three-week number-one “The Good Ones” and platinum “Pick Me Up.”
A powerhouse entertainer, Barrett will return to the road this summer on select dates with Kane Brown. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/bradley-cooper-headline-39th-annual-pa-chamber-dinner/521-7f401b13-71c6-4169-9ca0-a8e417035a6c | 2023-05-03T20:29:44 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/bradley-cooper-headline-39th-annual-pa-chamber-dinner/521-7f401b13-71c6-4169-9ca0-a8e417035a6c |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Middle school students from southcentral Pennsylvania competed in Harrisburg on May 3 to qualify for the first-ever National Civics Bee.
The competition, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is billed as an opportunity to boost interest in U.S. civics, the study of the rights and duties of citizenship.
Seventeen students participated in the regional Civics Bee at the Harrisburg Area Community College.
The event comes as student scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for civics declined for the first time in 2022. According to the report, only 22% of eighth graders scored proficient or better.
“There are fewer and fewer students who understand our democracy or show an interest in it, and we and our friends at the U.S. Chamber believe that civics is a foundational experience and something that every student should learn in order to become contributing members of our society,” said Ryan Unger, president and CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC.
The lack of civics knowledge extends to adults, too; just 51% of Americans were able to name all three branches of government, according to a University of Pennsylvania poll.
That statistic didn’t surprise seventh-grade Civics Bee participant Asher Baker of the Christian School of Grace Baptist Church in Carlisle.
“Some adults don’t take the time to learn what we do,” he said.
Other students saw the Civics Bee as more of a hobby.
“I mean it’s good to know, but you don’t really need to know it unless you want to get into a legal profession,” said seventh grader Anson Rominger, who also attends the Christian School of Grace Baptist Church.
The regional competition offered a $500 prize to the first-place winner, while the top five scorers will advance to the state competition on June 15. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/civics-bee-harrisburg-pennsylvania-fox-students-education/521-4d654e6f-b359-4049-9f04-6ffe9d6e38d1 | 2023-05-03T20:29:52 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/civics-bee-harrisburg-pennsylvania-fox-students-education/521-4d654e6f-b359-4049-9f04-6ffe9d6e38d1 |
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — The suspect in a Georgia murder case was apprehended by U.S. Marshals Wednesday in Central Pennsylvania, authorities said.
Gregory Thornton, 30, of Baltimore, is charged with homicide and other offenses relating to the March 28 shooting death of 13-year-old Buddy Brown in Augusta, Georgia, police in Richmond County confirmed Wednesday.
Thornton was staying in Georgia at the time of Brown's murder, authorities said. Brown was reportedly outside to pick up a Door Dash delivery when he was gunned down, according to WRDW-TV.
Police say Thornton fled back to Maryland after Brown's murder. He was the subject of a statewide manhunt, but allegedly eluded capture by traveling to Pennsylvania.
The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force apprehended Thornton on the 3100 block of Anthony Highway in Fayetteville, Franklin County, on Wednesday morning, the Richmond County Sheriff's Office said.
He is charged with Murder, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime, and Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
Thornton will be extradited back to Georgia to face charges, the Sheriff's Office said. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/cumberland-county/gregory-thornton-capture-us-marshals-georgia-homicide/521-35492ddf-c408-436f-9ca5-f1bd735be027 | 2023-05-03T20:29:59 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/cumberland-county/gregory-thornton-capture-us-marshals-georgia-homicide/521-35492ddf-c408-436f-9ca5-f1bd735be027 |
LANCASTER, Pa. — Police and U.S. Marshals on Wednesday apprehended a man wanted for breaking parole in Columbia, Lancaster County.
Taleek Perez, 25, of Lancaster, was on parole from state prison for robbery and burglary charges. He pleaded guilty in 2019 and was sentenced to 4-10 years in state prison.
Perez fled while on State Parole and was wanted on the parole violation, authorities said.
Wednesday afternoon, members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force and the Columbia Borough Police Department captured Perez on the outstanding warrant.
Perez was taken into custody on the 100 block of South Third Street, according to Columbia Police. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/lancaster-county/taleek-perez-capture-us-marshals-columbia-police/521-0e35a2cd-a237-40eb-bc8e-d227e1be321f | 2023-05-03T20:30:05 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/lancaster-county/taleek-perez-capture-us-marshals-columbia-police/521-0e35a2cd-a237-40eb-bc8e-d227e1be321f |
YORK, Pa. — The York City Police Department is requesting information surrounding a five-year-old girl.
Dream Alicea was last seen being rescued from a house fire when her parents, Wilma and Jose Alicea, fled with their daughter from the active fire scene.
According to police, Dream's parents have since been avoiding contact with police and other agencies. Her medical condition is currently unknown.
Anyone with information has been encouraged to contact the York City Police Department at 717-846-1234 or 717-849-2219 or call the tipline at 717-849-2204.
Tipsters can also email Detective-Commander Andy Baez at abaez@yorkcity.org or submit an anonymous tip through CRIMEWATCH. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/york-county/york-city-police-searching-missing-5-year-old-dream-alicea/521-a76a0ed2-4cf4-4852-8f8a-1221fc0152f3 | 2023-05-03T20:30:11 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/york-county/york-city-police-searching-missing-5-year-old-dream-alicea/521-a76a0ed2-4cf4-4852-8f8a-1221fc0152f3 |
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, fresh off a reelection victory Tuesday, announced T.J. McDowell Jr. will be her new chief of staff.
McDowell has been an advisor on Gaylor Baird’s staff since March 2022, leading the city’s One Lincoln initiative to foster equity, diversity and inclusion.
He will replace Jennifer Williams, who has been chief of staff since May 2019 — the beginning of the mayor's first term. Her last day will be May 15 and McDowell will assume his new role the next day.
“Jennifer has been an invaluable leader and my trusted partner in public service at City Hall over the past four years," Gaylor Baird said. "Lincoln is better for having enjoyed her smart, savvy approach to achieving meaningful results for our residents, driven by a deep love of her hometown."
Gaylor Baird beat former state Sen. Suzanne Geist with 54% of the vote Tuesday following a heated race.
Before he joined the mayor’s staff, McDowell was assistant vice chancellor for student affairs for student life and leadership at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He worked at both Nebraska Wesleyan University and Lincoln Public Schools before he joined UNL.
McDowell also served as the executive director of the Clyde Malone Community Center, program manager at the Community Health Endowment, executive director of the Lighthouse and director of education outreach at Lincoln Action Program.
“T.J. is a recognized and accomplished leader on my staff and across the community, and we are excited for what he will deliver for Lincoln in this new role,” Gaylor Baird said. “His experience serving our community in the education and nonprofit sectors is significant. His vast network will strengthen our work to create a more successful, secure and shared future.”
McDowell also volunteers on the boards of the Cooper Foundation, the Foundation for Educational Services, and the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation.
Mayor Gaylor Baird wins second term; details emerge in police-involved shooting; Nebraska senator not budging on abortion.
Photos: Scenes from Lincoln's May 2 General Election
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird gives a speech after winning reelection on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird hugs supporters as she enters an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird hugs her supporters as she enters an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
City Council district 3 candidate Justin Carlson talks with supporters during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird speaks with supporters as she makes her rounds around an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird is embraced by Sen. George Dungan as she enters an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Adam Morfeld is hugged by Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird as she enters an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Lincoln Board of Education district 2 candidate Piyush Srivastav speaks with voters and supporters during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Lincoln Board of Education district 4 candidate Annie Mumgaard speaks to supporters during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
An election night party hosted by Democrats underway on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist embraces Tricia Nangkalaphivath as former Lincoln City Councilman Jon Camp (third from left) greets Gov. Jim Pillen during a Republican watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist embraces supporter Deb Portz during a Republican watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
From left, Bill Zuspan and Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner greet Lincoln City Council district 2 candidate Tom Duden during a Republican watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist talks with Gov. Jim Pillen during a Republican watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist talks with supporter Deb Portz during a Republican watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
A scene from the Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln City Council district 1 candidate Taylor Wyatt speaks during a Republican election watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Attorney General Mike Hilgers (right) greets Lincoln City Council district 2 candidate Tom Duden during a Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln City Council district 3 candidate Elina Newman speaks during a Republican election watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN Journal Star
Lincoln City Council district 3 candidate Wayne Reinwald speaks during a Republican election watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln City Council district 2 candidate Bailey Feit speaks with supporters during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
An election night party hosted by Democrats is underway inside the DelRay Ballroom on Tuesday.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
An election night party hosted by Democrats is underway inside the DelRay Ballroom on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, in Lincoln.
KENNETH FERRIERA Journal Star
City Council candidate Brodey Weber speaks with supporters during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday at the DelRay Ballroom in Lincoln.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
A voter cast their ballot on Tuesday at Eastridge Presbyterian Church.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Leo Otteman entertains himself with nearby power cable while and Ellie Otteman watches their mother Leslie as she casts her ballot on Tuesday at Eastridge Presbyterian Church.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
A voter, who did not wish to be identified, uses a polling booth to cast their ballot on Tuesday at College View Church.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Hendrik Viljoen fills in their ballot at a polling booth on Tuesday at the Auld Pavilion Rec Center.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Blanco Sanchez is joined by his son in a stroller as he votes in Tuesday at College View Church.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Voters from different districts are separated on either side of a board as they cast their votes on Tuesday at the Auld Pavilion Rec Center.
KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist delivers a concession speech at the Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist speaks on stage next to her husband Mark Geist at the Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln mayoral candidate Suzanne Geist embraces husband Mark Geist after delivering her concession speech at the Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln City Council candidate Tom Duden (right) embraces his wife Ronda Duden after at a Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
Lincoln City Council candidate Tom Duden (right) embraces his wife Ronda Duden (center), along with his brother-in-law Rob Treptow at a Republican election night watch party Tuesday at Rosie's Downtown.
JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star
District 2 school board candidate Piyush Srivastav gives a speech following his election win during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at the DelRay Ballroom in Lincoln.
KENNETH FERRIERA Journal Star
Lincoln City Council candidate Justin Carlson gives a speech following his election win during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at the DelRay Ballroom in Lincoln.
KENNETH FERRIERA Journal Star
City Council candidate Brodey Weber gives a speech following his win during an election night party for Democrats on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at the DelRay Ballroom in Lincoln.
KENNETH FERRIERA Journal Star
Contact the writer at mreist@journalstar.com or 402-473-7226. On Twitter at @LJSReist.
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Mayor Gaylor Baird wins second term; details emerge in police-involved shooting; Nebraska senator not budging on abortion.
A $50,000 Nebraska Powerball prize sold in Beatrice for the Nov. 7, 2022, drawing will expire on Saturday.
The winning ticket was sold at Farmer’s Cooperative, 1615 N. Sixth St. It matched four of the five winning white ball numbers (10, 33, 41, 47, 56) and the Powerball number (10) for $50,000.
Winning Nebraska Lottery Lotto tickets expire 180 days after the drawing. The prize must be claimed at Nebraska Lottery Headquarters, 137 N.W. 17th St., in Lincoln. Because the office is closed on weekends, the prize must be claimed by 5 p.m. Friday.
The odds of winning $50,000 playing Powerball are 1 in 913,129.
What are the 10 largest US lottery jackpots ever won?
1. $1.586 billion Powerball
1. $1.586 billion, Powerball, Jan. 13, 2016 (three tickets, from California, Florida, Tennessee)
Rebecca Hargrove, second from right, president and CEO of the Tennessee Lottery, presents a ceremonial check to John Robinson, right; his wife, Lisa, second from left; and their daughter, Tiffany, left; after the Robinson's winning Powerball ticket was authenticated at the Tennessee Lottery headquarters Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, in Nashville, Tenn. The ticket was one of three winning tickets in the $1.6 billion jackpot drawing. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Mark Humphrey
2. $1.537 billion Mega Millions
2. $1.537 billion, Mega Millions, Oct. 23, 2018 (one ticket, from South Carolina)
FILE-In this Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018 file photo, South Carolina Education Lottery Chief Operating Officer Tony Cooper, left, and KC Mart owner CJ Patel, right, speaks to reporters about the winning ticket sold at the Simpsonville, S.C., store. Nearly everyone in this small town has a theory for the city's billion-dollar mystery: Who won the $1.5 billion Mega Millions jackpot announced last October? (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins, File)
Jeffrey Collins
3. $1.337 billion Mega Millions
3. $1.337 billion, Mega Millions, July 29, 2022 (one ticket, from Illinois)
A display for the Mega Millions lottery is seen at a store, Friday, July 29, 2022, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Gregory Bull
4. $1.05 billion Mega Millions
4. $1.05 billion, Mega Millions, Jan. 22, 2021 (one ticket, from Michigan)
In this Feb. 26, 2021, photo provided by the Michigan Lottery, attorney Kurt Panouses poses with a check on behalf of the winners of a Mega Millions lottery jackpot in Lansing, Mich. Four people in a suburban Detroit lottery club have won a $1.05 billion Mega Millions lottery jackpot and will share $557 million after taxes. Officials made the announcement Friday, March 12, 2021, nearly two months after the Jan. 22, drawing.(Michigan Lottery via AP)
HOGP
5. $768.4 million Powerball
5. $768.4 million, Powerball, March 27, 2019 (one ticket, from Wisconsin)
Jackpots, including the Powerball jackpot, are on display at the Lotto Store at Primm just inside the California border Wednesday, March 27, 2019, near Primm, Nev. The Powerball jackpot soared to a massive $750 million Wednesday. (AP Photo/John Locher)
John Locher
6. $758.7 million Powerball
6. $758.7 million, Powerball, Aug. 23, 2017 (one ticket, from Massachusetts)
Mavis Wanczyk, of Chicopee, Mass., stands with state treasurer Deb Goldberg, left, during a news conference where she claimed the $758.7 million Powerball prize at Massachusetts State Lottery headquarters, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2017, in Braintree, Mass. Officials said it is the largest single-ticket Powerball prize in U.S. history. \(AP Photo/Josh Reynolds)
Josh Reynolds
7. $731.1 million Powerball
7. $731.1 million, Powerball, Jan. 20, 2021 (one ticket, from Maryland)
Powerball and Mega Millions lottery and Florida Lotto jackpots are displayed at a retailer, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, in North Miami Beach, Fla. Lottery players will have a shot Friday night at the fifth-largest jackpot in U.S. history after no tickets matched all the numbers in the latest Mega Millions drawing. The big prize for Powerball, the other national lottery game, is $550 million for Wednesday night's drawing. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
Wilfredo Lee
8. $699.8 million Powerball
8. $699.8 million, Powerball, Oct. 4, 2021 (one ticket, from California)
A customer makes a purchase, Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, under a sign showing that one of the two winning Powerball tickets in the latest drawing was sold at this 7-Eleven in Sacramento, Calif. The other winning ticket was purchased in Wisconsin and the two winners will split the $632 million jackpot. The winning numbers for the Powerball jackpot drawn Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022 were 6, 14, 25, 33 and 46. The Powerball was 17.(AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)
Rich Pedroncelli
9. $687.8 million Powerball
9. $687.8 million, Powerball, Oct. 27, 2018 (two tickets, from Iowa and New York)
Iowa Lottery CEO Terry Rich, left, presents a check to Lerynne West, of Redfield, Iowa, center, for her share of a nearly $700 million Powerball prize, Monday, Nov. 5, 2018, at the Iowa Lottery headquarters in Clive, Iowa. West was one of two winners of a $688 million jackpot drawn Oct. 27. She'll share the prize with someone who bought the other winning ticket in New York City. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Charlie Neibergall
10. $656 million Mega Millions
10. $656 million, Mega Millions, March 30, 2012 (three tickets, from Kansas, Illinois and Maryland)
Powerball winners Celeste and Joseph Tamburello display a ceremonial check for $70 Million from the New Jersey Lottery, Monday, March 26, 2012 in Lawrenceville, N.J. They will get a $41.5 million lump sum payout for the cash value ticket, which they bought at the Little Silver Family Pharmacy in Little Silver, N.J. At right is Foster Krupa, New Jersey Lottery marketing manager. (AP Photo/Beth DeFalco)
Beth DeFalco
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Back to Top | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/lebanon-walmart-parking-lot-shooting/c66396f8-5862-4a9e-9940-1de58adde076/ | 2023-05-03T20:32:50 | 0 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/lebanon-walmart-parking-lot-shooting/c66396f8-5862-4a9e-9940-1de58adde076/ |
It’s Small Business Week, and there’s no shortage of Denton-original businesses to choose from when it comes to dining, shopping and more. Here’s a rundown of how you can support local this week.
Engage on social
Lots of small businesses will be hopping on social media to share specials and interact with customers, so show them some love by liking, commenting or sharing posts, including in popular local groups like Denton Downtowners on Facebook.
Buy necessities local
If you’re a frequent flyer of big box stores like Walmart and Target, try mixing it up this week and getting at least a few of your items at a local business. Not only will more of your dollars stay within the Denton economy, you’ll also be helping a neighbor thrive. You might even find a new favorite haunt!
Treat yourself
Everyone could use a little indulgence. Whether it’s treating yourself to a craft coffee or beer at one of Denton’s many coffeehouses or bars, dining out at a new-to-you local eatery for date night or getting a luxurious massage (you deserve it), there’s lots of ways you can pamper yourself while supporting local this week.
Gift your support
Not in a spendy mood? Most retail shops, massage parlors, salons and other local businesses offer gift cards so you can get some birthday or holiday shopping done early, or just show your appreciation for a loved one.
Share your experience
One of the best gifts you can give a small business is your endorsement. If you recently had a great experience at a local spot or just have a favorite you always come back to, share the love by leaving a positive review online or referring a friend.
Keep it local long-term
Showing up for small businesses this week is great, but if you really want to show support for local spots, be sure to make it a habit.
“Shopping small and local isn’t a one-day, one-week, or one-season behavior,” Denton Chamber of Commerce President Erin Carter said. “Sixty-eight cents out of every $1 you spend local, stays local. That dollar fuels our Denton economy, jobs, families — our future.
“Businesses can be part of the support system for one another by choosing small, local options and partners whenever possible, and residents and visitors can contribute back to the local economy, too. Nurturing small business and an entrepreneurial ecosystem ensures a strong community for years to come.”
The chamber is hosting a challenge this week to spend $100 of your budget — or even $10, if you’re on a smaller budget — locally.
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JACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) — Hospitals in Columbus, Tupelo, New Albany and Amory received high marks for patient safety.
The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit, bi-annually gives letter grades to hospitals on how well they're able to protect patients from errors, injuries, accidents and injuries.
The organization published its spring grades on Wednesday. Open this link to view more grades.
The following hospitals in northeast Mississippi received an A grade:
- Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle [Columbus]
- Baptist Memorial Hospital of Union County [New Albany]
- North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo
- North Mississippi Medical Center Gilmore-Amory
The following hospitals in northeast Mississippi received a B grade:
- Baptist Memorial Hospital-Booneville
- Magnolia Regional Health Center [Corinth]
- North Mississippi Medical Center-West Point
- OCH Regional Medical Center [Starkville]
Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi in Oxford and the University of Mississippi Medical Center Grenada received C grades.
The state’s largest hospital, the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, received a C grade. | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/hospitals-in-columbus-tupelo-new-albany-amory-praised-for-patient-safety/article_ae38182e-e9db-11ed-b818-d710b87625c8.html | 2023-05-03T20:43:23 | 0 | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/hospitals-in-columbus-tupelo-new-albany-amory-praised-for-patient-safety/article_ae38182e-e9db-11ed-b818-d710b87625c8.html |
May 4 is National Day of Prayer and several towns are holding special celebrations.
Aberdeen - 11:30 a.m. in front of City Hall.
Columbus - 12 p.m. at Lowndes County courthouse.
Okolona - 11 a.m. at Okolona Mini Park.
Saltillo - 7 a.m. at the giant cross.
West Point - 10:30 a.m. at Third Mt. Olive MB Church, will march to Sally Kate Winters Park.
If we missed any, please send an email to news@wtva.com. | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/national-day-of-prayer-events-scheduled-for-thursday/article_bf7a488e-e9e8-11ed-aa26-d7bd1421c6a0.html | 2023-05-03T20:43:29 | 0 | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/national-day-of-prayer-events-scheduled-for-thursday/article_bf7a488e-e9e8-11ed-aa26-d7bd1421c6a0.html |
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – Construction at Wichita’s Northwest Water Treatment Facility is on schedule.
The new $500 million plant, near 21st Street and Hoover, will replace the city’s 80-year-old water plant that is at risk of failing, and it will serve nearby communities.
Work by Wichita Water Partners began at the location back in October 2020.
On Wednesday, KSN News toured the site and was able to speak to those involved with the construction.
“The structures on site are essentially built, and we are in the process of putting all the equipment inside,” said John Smith, Wichita Water Partners construction manager. “We are in the process of getting all the underground infrastructure in place, and as we move towards the end of summer, we are going to have complete structures, complete buildings. As we move to the end of the year, we will begin functional testing.”
Photos above show construction at Wichita’s Northwest Water Treatment Facility.
Before that testing can begin, work to tie the existing water system into the new facility continues. Smith said the challenges are with existing aging infrastructure.
“Back when stuff was put in, we are not keeping the same records that you are keeping today, so we had to do a lot of preliminary investigations, go out, make some open holes and look at what it was.”
Even with all that planning, workers continue to troubleshoot.
“We are making adjustments, modifications to the existing system to accommodate the build that is happening here,” Smith said.
Recently workers at the site completed the one million-hour labor mark.
Construction on the new water plant is set to be completed by the end of September 2024. | https://www.ksn.com/news/local/construction-at-wichitas-northwest-water-treatment-facility-is-on-schedule/ | 2023-05-03T20:47:29 | 1 | https://www.ksn.com/news/local/construction-at-wichitas-northwest-water-treatment-facility-is-on-schedule/ |
WATERLOO — Two men who were found with marijuana and a gun outside a Waterloo strip club in 2021 have been sentenced to prison.
Judge C.J. Williams sentenced Houston Simmons III, 26, to three years and eight months in prison on a charge of felon in possession of a firearm on Friday in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The sentencing hearing came a day after Bruce Terrell Sanford, 32, was sentenced to five years and 10 months on the same charge in connection with the incident.
Their prison time will be followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court records, police were called to a report of a suspicious vehicle outside Flirts Gentlemen’s Club on Jefferson Street on Sept. 5, 2021.
This week Waterloo's Violent Crime Apprehension Team seized its 700th firearm during a traffic stop. VCAT was launched in August 2009 to focus on violent crime in the city. The unit falls under the police department’s detective division, and all of the officers assigned to the unit are deputized as task force officers with the U.S. Marshals Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force.
Jeff Reinitz
Officers found marijuana in the vehicle and a loaded 9 mm Taurus handgun in a compartment in the door next to Simmons. The weapon had been reported stolen in Waterloo in August 2021, police said. In the vehicle’s trunk, they found vacuum-sealed marijuana and a vacuum seal machine.
Both men were barred from handling firearms because of prior felony drug convictions, according to court records.
Simmons is also awaiting trial in state court for charges of robbery and sexual assault. Trials are tentatively set for June.
50 facts about guns in America
What to know about guns in the U.S.
The right to bear arms conferred by the Second Amendment is one of the most debated pieces of legislation in U.S. history; it is repeatedly challenged or upheld in court and also is subject to fierce debate among gun rights organizations, political action committees, and news organizations.
Consequently, for better or worse, guns are inextricably tied to America's image, with the U.S. leading the world in firearms possession . In 2020 alone, Americans collectively bought more than 21 million firearms; in 2021, they bought a further estimated 19 million, according to FBI data . And while America only accounts for 5% of the global populace , it still owns almost 45% of worldwide firearms. In fact, in the U.S. there are more guns in private ownership than there are people to own them—about 1.2 guns for every single person, including children.
The issue of gun ownership remains fraught, with each new act of gun violence reopening the call for tougher restrictions. As this is an issue that affects all Americans, Stacker gathered information from scientific reports and government and news sites to generate a list of 50 facts related to guns in America.
You may also like: Republican Party history from the year you were born
CobraCZ // Shutterstock
Record climb in background checks during the COVID-19 pandemic
The steep climb in personal history reports required for gun ownership performed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Instant Criminal Background Check System has continued to rise since reaching a historic peak in 2019 of more than 28 million. Despite lockdowns, social distancing, and the closure of businesses and other facilities that might have mitigated the public's hunger for weaponry, the pandemic conversely seemed to fuel American desire for more and more guns. In 2020, 39,695,315 million checks were performed, and the following year, just 818,000 fewer.
You may also like: Democratic Party history from the year you were born
Canva
Americans purchased more firearms in 2020 and 2021 than at any point in the nation's history
During the spring of 2020, when COVID-19 broke out in the U.S, firearm sales soared, then rose even higher during a summer of racial and social unrest. Many citizens purchased their first guns during this time. According to research consultancy firm Small Arms Analytics & Forecasting , 22.8 million guns were purchased in 2020, and in 2021 Americans bought nearly 20 million more.
Canva
The Second Amendment is at odds with modern politics
The Constitutional definition regarding "the right to bear arms" is questionable in an age of mass shootings , dividing many Americans whose opinions on gun ownership differ. The Atlantic reports that while the "contextual reading is quite enlightening" in the amendment, its initial and sole purpose was to permit U.S. states to create armed militias legally.
You may also like: Democratic Party history from the year you were born
Canva
Protection cited as a primary reason for ownership
The report "America's Complex Relationship with Guns" details that regardless of demographics, up to 88% of U.S. citizens claim to own firearms primarily for protection against crime . Additional reasons Americans say they own firearms are for hunting, sport shooting, gun collection, and employment purposes.
Canva
More Americans want stricter controls
A report by the Pew Research Center in April 2021 found that more than half of all Americans (53%) wanted stricter gun laws than were in effect, while 66% indicated that rules regarding gun sales should be more stringent. Following President Biden's signing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law on June 25, 2022, Pew returned to the issue and found that while public approval of the law is quite high—nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults support it—there is little faith that it will provide a meaningful reduction in gun violence. Moreover, 63% of adults would still like Congress to pass further, tougher laws restricting access to firearms.
You may also like: Democratic Party history from the year you were born
Canva
Ban of bump stocks upheld by the Supreme Court
Bump-firing is when a semiautomatic weapon recoil causes rapid succession fire. After the mass shootings in Las Vegas and Parkland, Florida, the U.S. banned the deadly accessory. That ban was challenged in 2022, a challenge that made its way all the way to the Supreme Court—well, almost. In October, the court refused to hear the case, keeping the ban in place.
Canva
Only certain states require background checks
Though federal law dictates that all licensed gun dealers perform background checks on purchasers, it does not mandate a personal history release on brick-and-mortar gun sales or firearms purchased online. However, 21 states and Washington D.C. have expanded background check requirements beyond federal law. Within this group, 16 states, as well as Washington D.C., mandate checks for all gun sales, regardless of where and how they are purchased.
Canva
2016 saw record-breaking gun manufacturing
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) reports the manufacturing of 11,497,441 firearms in 2016, besting 2013's previous record of 10,844,792. In the years since, gun manufacturing has slowed, dropping off to just over 7 million in 2019.
You may also like: Democratic Party history from the year you were born
Canva
Firearm ownership triples the rate of self-murders
Research proves that those with self-harm tendencies are more likely to successfully take their lives if a firearm is in residence. More than 12 U.S. case-control studies reveal that more self-murders take place in states with more guns and fewer restrictive firearm regulations, according to the Harvard School of Public Health .
Canva
3 out of 10 Americans own a gun
Three out of every 10 Americans admit to owning a gun and 11% of those who do not say someone else in their household does, according to a 2021 Pew Research survey. The study also showed that 66% of gun owners own more than one firearm. Firearm exposure begins in adolescence for almost half of Americans, with up to 48% saying they grew up with a gun in the house. Gallup also conducted a poll that same year—it found numbers were actually a bit higher , with 42% of respondents indicating they were gun owners.
Pixabay
There were nearly 700 mass shootings in 2021
691. That's how many mass shootings occurred in 2021. A mass shooting is defined as a single event in which gun violence results in four or more people being shot. 2022 is on a course to withstand even more incidents—as of Oct. 27, there have been 660 mass shootings across the U.S.
You may also like: Democratic Party history from the year you were born
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The National Rifle Association formed in 1871
Founded by two Union veterans, the National Rifle Association (NRA) was formed in 1871 in order to improve troop marksmanship and "promote and encourage rifle shooting on a scientific basis." The NRA reported that more than 125,000 "certified instructors" train 1 million firearm owners each year on how to properly shoot a rifle.
Pixabay
Bipartisan support against gun owners with mental illness
Both GOP and Democrat lawmakers tend to agree that Americans with documented mental illness should not be allowed to own a gun. Both political parties agree that anyone on a federal no-fly or watchlist should be prohibited from buying or possessing a firearm. This relative bipartisan agreement radiates out to the American populace, as well. Among gun owners and nonowners alike, regardless of political affiliation , between 86% and 91% of U.S. adults believe those with mental illness should be prevented from purchasing guns.
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44% of Americans know someone who was shot
Almost half of Americans confess to knowing someone who has been accidentally or intentionally shot with a firearm, while 23% admit to using a gun to threaten a family member. Additionally, suburban Americans know fewer people who have been shot compared to citizens in rural regions.
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Concealed and open carry
Self-identifying definitions, concealed or open, are the two ways an owner can legally carry firearms , but this was not always the case. In the last three decades, profound policy changes on the public display of weapons made openly carrying a gun easier. More than 30 states allow open carry without the requirement of a license, while a further 10 require a license. Only four states—California, Illinois, Florida, New York—and Washington D.C. fully prohibit the open carry of a gun in public.
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Nonmailable Firearms Act of 1927 banned shipping firearms through USPS
The U.S. Congress authorized the Nonmailable Firearms Act in 1927 , which banned shipping firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and concealable guns, through the U.S. Postal Service. Only military, police officers, and specific law officials were authorized to mail firearms. If found guilty of illegally sending weapons, gun owners could face as much as two years in prison and up to $1,000 in fines.
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States with more guns have higher firearm fatalities
Harvard Injury Control Research Center Director David Hemenway states that "a wide array of empirical evidence indicates that more guns in a community leads to more homicide" in America. He adds in his book, "Private Guns, Public Health," that additional research shows firearms in a home cause a greater risk of self-murder and unintentional injury.
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Higher police officer deaths in gun-friendly states
According to the American Journal of Public Health, occupational mortality for law enforcement officers is much higher in states with less-restrictive gun regulations. Using the Poisson distribution to breakdown data gathered from the FBI between 1996 and 2019, research proved LEO homicide rates to be three times higher in states with more gun owners; this is, however, an older study, and this ratio may have changed in the past three years or been impacted by COVID-19.
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Eleven states allow students to carry concealed guns on campus
While mass shootings, specifically on school grounds, have compelled lawmakers to enforce regional gun restrictions and bans, eleven states allow concealed weapons on campus . Sixteen states prohibit it, while 23 leave it to the schools themselves to determine whether to allow or forbid concealed carry on school grounds.
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Vermont adolescents can own a handgun
In the Green Mountain state, a resident only has to be 16 to legally possess a handgun without parental consent. Additionally, there is no age restriction on owning or possessing a rifle or shotgun in Vermont, allowing any child to have that type of firearm without parental consent. There are caveats, however; the sale of firearms to anyone under age 21 within the state is prohibited , and the furnishing of a firearm to anyone under the age of 16 is subject to a fine, albeit a minuscule one of $50 max. A further caveat is that shooting instructors can provide a gun to a student under 16 without fear of a fine or other reprisal.
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States exempt from federal gun laws
Under nullification laws, some U.S. states feel they do not have to follow federal law regarding the sale of guns manufactured in the region. Since 2010, Idaho, Kansas, Wyoming, South Dakota, and Arizona have all passed federally defiant legislation based on "firearms freedom," allowing them to make guns without national regulations and sell them without an official federal record. In 2021, Missouri attempted to nullify federal gun regulations by passing the Second Amendment Preservation Act, but the Justice Department issued a warning that the act cannot be enforced due to the Constitution's Supremacy Clause.
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22 adolescents are shot daily in the US
Around 22 children are shot daily in the U.S. on average , with an average of three fatalities each dawn-to-dark. Within this figure is a further alarming fact: Eight children and teens are unintentionally shot each day due to family fire , which is a shooting resulting in injury or death that involves an improperly stored or misused gun found in the home.
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More than 320,000 children in US have witnessed mass shootings
A detailed Washington Post report revealed that since the mass shooting at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999, more than 320,000 children have experienced gun violence on school grounds. Those children were spread across 340 schools, meaning gun violence has occurred at an average of about 15 schools each year since 1999.
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Domestic violence is a leading cause of adolescent shootings
A decade-long Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis showed that in the 17 U.S. states tracked in the study, 179 children, at least half younger than 13 years old, became "collateral victims" of domestic violence incidents committed with a gun after a fight broke out in the home from 2003–2013. A 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law revealed that in domestic violence incidents the presence of a firearm increased the risk of multiple or collateral victims by nearly 71%.
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States with the most restrictive firearm regulations see fewer deaths by guns
States with stricter gun laws have fewer deaths by firearm, according to data from the CDC . Of the eight states considered to be leading the nation in gun control legislation, all but two see many fewer gun deaths than the national average; the two outliers are nearer the average, but still below it. Of what are considered to be the weakest states when it comes to gun control, only Maine is below the national average.
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Demographics of gun ownership
Four out of every 10 adults in America have reported that there is at least one gun in their home, and men are nearly twice as likely to be gun owners than women. Gun ownership across races varies rather widely, with 36% of white men reporting to own at least one gun, against much lower figures for Black (24%), Hispanic (18%), and Asian men (10%). Most gun owners are over the age of 30 and tend to lean conservative in their political and social beliefs.
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National Firearms Act of 1934 was passed in response to gang violence
In response to the notorious extreme gun violence committed by 1930s gang leaders including mobster Al Capone and hitman John Dillinger, Congress passed the National Firearms Act of 1934 under President Franklin Roosevelt's administration. The legislation under the "New Deal for Crime" prohibited the use of any firearm with a barrel shorter than 18 inches.
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Montana has the highest percentage of gun ownership
Nearly seven out of every 10 adults in Montana own a gun , making the state with the greatest number of gun owners. Wyoming and Alaska run close behind, while Texas leads the way in terms of the number of federal licenses issued , followed by Florida.
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Several East Coast states have the lowest percentage of gun ownership and licenses issued
The Northeast region of the United States has some of the strictest gun laws on the books, so it may come as little surprise that the states with the lowest number of gun owners and federal licenses issued lie along the Atlantic. While Delaware, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Maine are among the states with the fewest federal licenses issued in 2021, New Jersey and Massachusetts show the lowest rates of gun ownership (followed quite closely by Rhode Island).
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58 were killed in largest mass shooting
Fifty-eight concertgoers at the Rt. 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas lost their lives during the largest mass shooting in U.S. history. More than 850 were injured when a single gunman opened fire from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Casino. Country musician Jason Aldean was performing when the shooting started.
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Seven states and Washington D.C. have assault weapons bans
Seven states and the District of Columbia have outright bans on the sale and purchase of assault weapons, while Minnesota and Virginia have regulations in place. California, New Jersey, and Connecticut put bans into effect before a federal 10-year ban was enacted with the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. Massachusetts, Hawaii, New York, and Maryland have similar laws.
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There are loopholes in background checks
Though the Brady Act in 1993 required background checks for the sale of firearms, 20% of all transactions today occur without one. Private gun vendors in certain states are exempt from performing federal background checks, both at gun shows or through online sales. The Bipartisan Background Checks Act would require checks on all sales, passed the House in 2021, but remains, as of October 2022, waylaid under Senate review. Nonetheless, gun legislation has found success very recently. In June 2022, President Joe Biden signed into law the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act , which in addition to addressing "red flag" laws, greatly expands background checks for those under age 21, and closes the "boyfriend loophole," by which dating partners were excluded in previous legislation from those from owning a firearm were they convicted of domestic abuse.
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Creative Commons // Wikimedia Commons
Gun Control Act of 1968 was the first to prohibit gun sales to certain groups
The Gun Control Act of 1968 was the first gun legislation to prohibit the sale of guns to certain groups, including convicted felons, minors, and the mentally unstable. The bill also banned the sale of guns through interstate mail, five years after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy using one such gun. Two more assassinations—those of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy—came just months before the bill's passage.
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A city in Georgia requires that every household must own a gun
The city of Kennesaw, Georgia, has a law on the books stipulating that "every head of household in the city limits must own a gun." The law was passed in 1982 in response to a gun ban in Morton Grove, Illinois . A handful of towns have since passed similar laws requiring gun ownership . Kennesaw's law is, however, a bit misleading in its seeming absoluteness; a closer look at the language of the law makes it clear that gun ownership is required, according to one analysis , "save for those Kennesaw residents who couldn't afford guns, couldn't use guns, couldn't legally own guns, or simply didn't want to have guns."
Thomson200 // Wikimedia Commons
Remington Arms is the oldest gun manufacturer in the US
Remington Arms was formed in 1816 and serves as the nation's oldest gun manufacturer, while Italy's Beretta dates to 1526. Bankruptcy proceedings in 2020 threatened to break Remington apart, but the company was able to exit bankruptcy just two months after filing. American competitor Smith & Wesson, founded in 1856, is the largest gun manufacturer in the world with Remington a close second.
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Smith Collection/Gado // Getty Images
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WATERLOO — The YWCA and 250 attendees celebrated women and organizations that empower them during the 17th annual Cedar Valley Women of Persimmon luncheon April 13 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cedar Falls.
The 2023 Women of Persimmon award recipients are:
Professional Woman: Tanya Warren. Volunteer: Jeanne Olson. Young Woman of Tomorrow: Lexi Gause. Youth Advocate: Desirae Holmes. Organization that Empowers Women: Hawkeye Community College. The Jean Parker YWCA Woman of Persimmon: Hillery Oberle.
Photos: Waterloo vs. Lincoln, USHL Playoffs
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 1
Waterloo's Gavin O'Connell enters the Lincoln zone during first period action Sunday in a United States Hockey League Clark Cup hockey game at Young Arena.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 2
Waterloo forward Miko Matikka lets loose a shot during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 3
Waterloo defenseman Sam Rinzel moves the puck up ice as Lincoln's Jimmy Jurcev defends during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 4
Waterloo forwards Gavin O'Connell and Miko Matikka crash the Lincoln Stars' net during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 5
Waterloo defenseman Patrick Geary lays a hit on Lincoln forward Daniel Sambuco during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 6
Lincoln forward Klavs Veinbergs protects the puck from Waterloo defenseman Ben Robertson during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 7
Waterloo forward Owen Baker looks for position along the boards as Lincoln defenseman Cole Crusberg-Roseen gains possession of the puck during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 8
Lincoln defensman Jimmy Jurcev delivers a bit to Waterloo defenseman Sam Rinzel as Griffin Erdman looks on during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 9
Waterloo forward Gavyn Thoreson carries the puck as two Lincoln Stars give chase during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 10
Waterloo goaltender Emmett Croteau and defenseman Patrick Geary look on as a Lincoln Stars players goes down in the crease during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 11
Waterloo Black Hawk defenseman Aaron Pionk dumps a puck to behind the Lincoln net Sunday during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
WAT HKY vs. Lincoln 12
Waterloo's Ben Robertson maneuvers inside the Lincoln zone Sunday during game three of the USHL Conference semifinals on Sunday, April 30, 2023.
JIM NELSON, Courier Sports Editor
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Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/ywca-celebrates-women-and-organization-during-17th-annual-luncheon/article_126c1141-82f5-54ef-876f-b8f7021b5698.html | 2023-05-03T20:49:55 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/ywca-celebrates-women-and-organization-during-17th-annual-luncheon/article_126c1141-82f5-54ef-876f-b8f7021b5698.html |
BOISE, Idaho — Construction is expected to be complete by the end of summer 2023 on 11 three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes as part of a program to make home ownership affordable.
LEAP Housing and its partners broke ground on April 17 for Whitney Commons. It is located off of Shamrock Street south of Fairview Avenue, next to the Shamrock Street Park site that the City of Boise recently acquired for a future park and open space.
The community is in the LEAP Housing Trust, and is the second of its kind that LEAP has built. A $200,000 donation from The Whitney Foundation allowed LEAP to purchase the land for Whitney Commons. Land purchases as part of the housing trust model allow LEAP to build and sell homes at more affordable prices by removing the cost of land from the equation and "ensures that the homes will remain affordable for buyer after buyer, forever," according to a news release from LEAP.
For people interested in buying a home at Whitney Commons, LEAP asks that interested buyers complete the LEAP Housing Trust Eligibility Questionnaire. Qualified households must be at or below 80% of the area median income. For a family of four, that's a gross income of $67,350 per year, according to City of Boise income guidelines. Buyers may be eligible for up to $100,000 in down payment assistance through the LEAP Loan Fund, made possible by donations and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines.
LEAP Housing Trust staff will request the following documentation:
- Three to six of most recent consecutive pay stubs
- Start date of most recent employment
- Hourly wage or annual salary
- Tax returns from the last two years
- Date of birth
- Total number of dependents
- Other forms of income (SSI, SSDI, Child Support, Alimony, Rental Income, etc.)
Preference will be given to households with a member who meets any of the following criteria:
- 62 years or older
- Physical impairment
- Mental impairment
- Recovering from domestic abuse
- Recovering from substance use
- Has HIV/AIDS
LEAP notes that filling out the form and becoming income qualified does not guarantee you a home. For more information about Whitney Commons and other LEAP programs, visit the LEAP website.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/growing-idaho/leap-housing-groundbreaking-whitney-commons-affordable-homeownership-project-in-west-boise/277-7962c3ca-b249-4d41-b03a-688a66e8f867 | 2023-05-03T20:49:56 | 0 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/growing-idaho/leap-housing-groundbreaking-whitney-commons-affordable-homeownership-project-in-west-boise/277-7962c3ca-b249-4d41-b03a-688a66e8f867 |
A $22 million music technology building proposed for Purdue University Fort Wayne's campus is getting a $15 million boost from the new state budget, the campus announced today.
Matching $3 million lead gifts from Chuck and Lisa Surack and the Auer Foundation were announced in August. Additional funding from private donors is being sought, the university said.
"We are grateful to have received such strong support from our elected officials during this initial phase of the project, and from our private donors – specifically the Suracks and the Auer Foundation – who are helping make this a reality," Chancellor Ron Elsenbaumer said in a statement.
He credited members of the university's community engagement board, Greater Fort Wayne Inc. and the Regional Chamber of Northeast Indiana for their efforts in securing the state dollars.
Gov. Eric Holcomb is expected to sign the budget approved by the state legislature last week into law.
Site work for the 26,000-square-foot facility is expected to begin in 2024 with a projected opening date in fall 2027 – almost a decade after the university opened the music technology center on Sweetwater's corporate campus.
The building will be adjacent to the Rhinehart Music Center, which is next to the Hilliard Gates Sports Center on the university's main campus in northeast Fort Wayne.
"Creation of a music technology building on the Purdue Fort Wayne campus not only addresses the academic needs of students who seek careers in this field," Elsenbaumer said, "(but) it also helps the region reaffirm its commitment to being a national hub in the music industry."
Interest in the university's popular music and music industry programs has soared since Purdue Fort Wayne opened its current music technology center in 2018, a news release said. Enrollment has increased by more than 150 students since the new programs began.
John O'Connell, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Purdue Fort Wayne, said the Statehouse recognition is energizing.
"With this new space, we will be able to again double the total number of students in our popular music, music industry, and music technology programs," O'Connell said in a statement. "This new facility will also help cement their growing national reputation and take Fort Wayne closer to its objective of being a 'Top 10 Music City' over the next decade." | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/state-budget-to-give-purdue-fort-wayne-music-building-15-million-boost/article_48734fe6-e9df-11ed-a38a-c7a4da0a5c39.html | 2023-05-03T20:52:41 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/state-budget-to-give-purdue-fort-wayne-music-building-15-million-boost/article_48734fe6-e9df-11ed-a38a-c7a4da0a5c39.html |
A knife was confiscated Wednesday from a Summit Middle School student just two days after officials found an unloaded gun on a different student.
Administrators at the Southwest Allen County school were made aware that a student might have a knife in the morning, Superintendent Park Ginder said in an email to families.
School officials and law enforcement immediately took action and removed the student from class, Ginder said. A folding knife was found in the student's lunch box and the student was removed from the building.
"We recognize that a weapon at school is considered a threat but, at no time did the student use the knife toward them self or others," Ginder said.
He said students who bring weapons of any kind to school grounds will receive consequences detailed in the SACS student handbook in addition to any legal repercussions.
The incident comes only two days after a student at the same school was found with an unloaded gun. More than 850 students are enrolled at Summit, which is located across from Homestead High School at Homestead and Aboite Center roads. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/student-found-with-knife-at-same-sacs-school-where-gun-was-recently-discovered/article_8481262e-e9db-11ed-8d36-e33f84947387.html | 2023-05-03T20:52:47 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/student-found-with-knife-at-same-sacs-school-where-gun-was-recently-discovered/article_8481262e-e9db-11ed-8d36-e33f84947387.html |
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News in 90: SpaceX, Palm Bay Council and middle school 'Fight Club'
Rob Landers
Florida Today
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Rob Landers is a veteran multimedia journalist for the USA Today Network of Florida. Contact Landers at 321-242-3627 or rlanders@gannett.com. Instagram: @ByRobLanders Youtube: @florida_today | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/news-in-90-spacex-palm-bay-council-and-middle-school-fight-club/70179843007/ | 2023-05-03T20:55:15 | 0 | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2023/05/03/news-in-90-spacex-palm-bay-council-and-middle-school-fight-club/70179843007/ |
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