text string | url string | crawl_date timestamp[ms] | label int64 | id string |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The National Weather Service on Friday issued a tornado watch for Lincoln and Lancaster County as well as much of eastern and central Nebraska.
The weather service said severe weather is possible until midnight and the tornado watch is in effect until 9 p.m. Possible hazards include damaging winds, flash flooding, large hail of one to two inches as well as tornadoes.
Storms are expected to form along a line from Albion to Columbus to Lincoln. As of 3 p.m. there had already been five tornado warnings issued for areas east of Columbus and farther west near Mullin.
Four years ago: Photos, videos from catastrophic flooding in Nebraska
Flooding in Nickerson, 3.13
Floodwaters from Maple Creek spilled over Nebraska 91, blocking vehicle and train traffic in March near Nickerson.
FRANCIS GARDLER, JOURNAL STAR file photo
Flooding in Wahoo, 3.13
Floodwaters from Cottonwood Creek spill over Nebraska 92 on Wednesday near the intersection with U.S. 77 west of Wahoo.
FRANCIS GARDLER, JOURNAL STAR
Flooding in Nickerson, 3.13
Rising water spills over the banks of Maple Creek as seen from a bridge near Nickerson on Wednesday.
FRANCIS GARDLER, JOURNAL STAR
Flooding in Ashland Area, 3.14
Floodwaters swarm over city of Lincoln wellfields northeast of Ashland on Thursday.
FRANCIS GARDLER, JOURNAL STAR
Flooding in Ashland Area, 3.14
Floodwaters move toward the edge of U.S. 6 northeast of Ashland on Thursday. The Platte is not expected to crest at Louisville until late Saturday night, and it is forecast to stay above flood level until late Monday or early Tuesday.
FRANCIS GARDLER, JOURNAL STAR
Flooding, Ashland
Mary Roncka and her husband Gene Roncka, accompanied by neighbor Kevin Mandina, are evacuated as floodwaters rise Thursday near Ashland.
Brendan J. Sullivan, Omaha World-Herald
Flooding, Hooper
Water floods a street Wednesday in Hooper.
Ryan Soderlin, Omaha World-Herald
Flooding, 3.14
Water covers the road Thursday northeast of Wahoo.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Flooding, 3.14
After the water receded at Emerson Estates Thursday afternoon, it revealed a home moved from its foundation.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Flooding, 3.14
Floodwaters at Emerson Estates near Inglewood swallowed a pickup and RV.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Flooding, 3.14
A truck is partially submerged in water at Emerson Estates near Inglewood on Thursday.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Fremont flooding
Floodwater and ice chunks cover Ridgeland Avenue east of Hormel Park in Fremont at around noon on Thursday. The water receded Thursday from the area of Emerson Estates, which was evacuated on Wednesday night.
COLIN LARSON, Fremont Tribune
Rescued in boat
Craig Sorensen holds onto his dog, Ollie, as they are evacuated from their home near Bellwood on Thursday.
Julie Sorensen, courtesy photo
Highway flooding
Floodwaters converge on U.S. 81 near Norfolk.
Courtesy Photo from State of Nebraska
Genoa bridge
Floodwaters pass through a collapsed bridge on Nebraska 22 south of Genoa last week.
State of Nebraska, Courtesy photo
Stranded cattle
Cattle stand on dry land near patches of water near Fremont.
Courtesy Photo from State of Nebraska
Flooding, 3.15
A worker sets out signs to block off Campanile Road on March 15 near Venice.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star file photo
Flooding, 3.15
A truck towing an airboat drives through standing water Friday, March 15, 2019, to launch the boat and look for people who might need to be evacuated near Valley.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Tuxedo Park in Crete
A drone photo of Tuxedo Park in Crete taken Friday morning, showing flooding caused by the Big Blue River.
COURTESY PHOTO
Platte River flooding at I-80
Platte River I-80 bridge (top) and Route 6 bridge near Ashland.
Courtesy Photo, The State of Nebraska
Flooding near Plattsmouth, 3.16
BNSF locomotives sit submerged in Platte River floodwaters near Plattsmouth on Saturday.
FRANCIS GARDLER, JOURNAL STAR
Peru flooding, 3.17
Assistant fire chief Luke Winkelman stacks water bladders Sunday in Peru. Peru's water supply is limited since the water treatment facility was shut off when flood waters overtook the plant. Residents have been asked to conserve water usage.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Peru flooding, 3.17
Peru State College students and community members look out at the floodwaters March 17 in Peru.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Peru flooding, 3.17
Kody Smith helps moves clothes out of a flooded home Sunday in Peru.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Peru flooding, 3.17
Kyle Smith moves furniture out of a flooded home Sunday in Peru.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Peru flooding, 3.17
The top of a fire hydrant peeks out of the water Sunday, March 17, in Peru.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Peru flooding, 3.17
Floodwaters creep into the town of Peru in March, approaching a sign that is typically 1.75 miles from the water.
Journal Star file photo
Peru flooding, 3.17
Kody Smith (left) and Kyle Smith move furniture out of a flooded house Sunday in Peru.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star
Peru flooding, 3.17
A family gets ready to haul a trailer full of furniture away from a flooded house in Peru on March 17.
KAYLA WOLF, Journal Star file photo
Rescuing calf in Fullerton
Nebraska City flooding
Nebraska City flooding.
JAMES DEAN, courtesy photo
Cooper plant
Cooper Nuclear Plant workers were being boated to and from the plant as both roads leading to the plant are covered by water.
JAMES DEAN, courtesy photo
Water flowing over levee L575 across the river from Nebraska City in Percival, Iowa
Water flowing over levee L575 across the river from Nebraska City in Percival, Iowa, in March.
JAMES DEAN, courtesy photo
Steinhart Grain Terminal at Nebraska City
Steinhart Grain Terminal at Nebraska City.
JAMES DEAN, courtesy photo
By the numbers
Nebraska National Guard
Reach the writer at 402-473-7241 or ajohnson2@journalstar.com . On Twitter @ajohnson6170
Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. | https://journalstar.com/news/local/tornado-watch-issued-for-lincoln-much-of-central-and-eastern-nebraska/article_271011e4-f0fc-11ed-a56d-7fcc2132cfcf.html | 2023-05-12T20:40:58 | 1 | https://journalstar.com/news/local/tornado-watch-issued-for-lincoln-much-of-central-and-eastern-nebraska/article_271011e4-f0fc-11ed-a56d-7fcc2132cfcf.html |
Herkimer County has joined Oneida County in declaring a State of Emergency to prevent migrants and asylum seekers from inundating local hotels and shelters.
The declarations came after New York City Mayor Eric Adams said he planned to bus migrants upstate in anticipation of an influx following the end of Title 42, which expired on Thursday. Title 42 was put in place at the start of the pandemic and allowed the United States to turn away migrants on the grounds of preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Herkimer County Legislature Chairman Vincent Bono says the county is already experiencing a housing crisis due to a limited number of temporary and permanent housing, and is not able to support placement of incoming migrants.
Bono also issued an emergency order preventing local hotels, shelters and businesses from transporting or housing migrants without permission from the county.
Read the full orders below: | https://www.wktv.com/news/local/herkimer-county-declares-state-of-emergency-as-title-42-ends/article_89817d8c-f0fb-11ed-8597-8b54db43c90b.html | 2023-05-12T20:41:35 | 1 | https://www.wktv.com/news/local/herkimer-county-declares-state-of-emergency-as-title-42-ends/article_89817d8c-f0fb-11ed-8597-8b54db43c90b.html |
BALTIMORE — Baltimore City State's Attorney Ivan Bates announced a series of recent murder convictions.
Major Kinchen faces 75 years in jail for the January 2021 killing of Breonna Rogers in Druid Hill Park. Sentencing is set for June 30.
Jalonte Davis pleaded guilty to the March 2020 shooting death of his brother, Jerron Davis.
He's scheduled to be sentenced on October 18 and could face up to 40 years behind bars.
Aaron Clubb was found guilty for the July 2019 murder of Jaquan Johnson on N. Linwood Avenue.
He now faces life plus 25 years in prison.
Later that same year Antonio Modica was gunned down in the 1900 block of W. Pratt Street.
Nelson McNorton has since pleaded guilty for his role in that shooting. He's already been sentenced to 25 years. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/baltimore-city-prosecutors-secure-series-of-murder-convictions | 2023-05-12T20:42:04 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/baltimore-city-prosecutors-secure-series-of-murder-convictions |
CECIL COUNTY, Md. — Officials at Bohemia Manor Middle School were recently made aware of a "People We Should Kill List," created by several students at the school.
It was created at the beginning of the school year and discovered through social media.
According to a Cecil County Public School spokesperson, the school was made aware of the information that was posted and thoroughly investigated the incident. This includes the threat assessment protocol process that is in place.
In a letter addressed to parents the school said, "We were able to identify the students involved and determine that the list was created at the beginning of the year but was recently found by another student and reported."
"This situation serves as a reminder that information such as this should always be reported immediately to school officials and/or law enforcement," the letter adds.
The full letter can be found below:
Dear Families:
I wanted to make you aware of a situation that was brought to our attention in the middle school involving a list that was found labeled “People We Should Kill.” After investigating, we were able to identify the students involved and determine that the list was created at the beginning of the year but was recently found by another student and reported. Students involved will face appropriate disciplinary consequences.
Situations of this nature are taken very seriously by the school system. This situation serves as a reminder that information such as this should always be reported immediately to school officials and/or law enforcement. In this case, the open lines of communication that exist between students, parents, and school administrators allowed us to swiftly and thoroughly investigate this particular matter.
Thank you for your support as we work to provide a safe, secure learning environment for our students. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/several-students-at-a-cecil-county-school-created-a-people-we-should-kill-list | 2023-05-12T20:42:10 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/several-students-at-a-cecil-county-school-created-a-people-we-should-kill-list |
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The nation’s largest public utility released plans Friday to build a new natural gas plant in Tennessee, largely dismissing renewable energy alternatives one day after the Biden administration proposed strict new limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants.
TVA’s draft environmental impact statement says constructing a 1500-megawatt gas plant along with 3-4 megawatts of solar and 100 megawatts of battery storage at the Kingston site is “the best overall solution to provide low-cost, reliable energy to the TVA power system.”
TVA considered replacing the Kingston plant with 1500 megawatts of solar and 2,200 megawatts of battery storage at various locations around the Tennessee Valley, but nixed solar as less reliable and spent only a few pages on the analysis.
The Southern Environmental Law Center criticized TVA’s plan as one that “will handcuff customers to paying expensive fossil fuel prices for decades, even as the price of clean energy continues to fall.” The group’s statement Friday pointed out that TVA gas units built as recently as 2012 failed during a deep freeze over the Christmas holiday weekend last year, causing rolling blackouts across the region.
The nonprofit has long advocated for TVA to embrace non-carbon-emitting alternatives, mixing solar and wind power with projects that reduce the need for more electricity, like energy efficiency and demand-response technology that helps change consumption patterns to flatten peak demand periods.
TVA CEO Jeff Lyash has said repeatedly that gas is needed because it can provide power at any time, regardless of whether the sun is shining or the wind is blowing. The draft environmental impact statement estimates the new gas plant would produce 1.75 million tons of greenhouse gases a year. That’s a big reduction from the current emissions, but the solar alternative would produce none.
TVA isn’t writing off the possibility of more solar, however. It says the new gas plants will provide the flexibility needed to add 10,000 megawatts of solar to its overall system by 2035 and still meet peak demand periods.
TVA provides power to 10 million people across seven Southern states.
Kingston is not the only new gas plant the utility has in the works. The Southern Environmental Law Center is suing to block a gas-burning plant at the retired coal-burning Johnsonville Fossil Plant, claiming TVA violated federal law last year by failing to properly assess the environmental and climate impacts. TVA has declined to comment on the case.
Earlier this year, TVA announced a decision to replace its coal-burning Cumberland Fossil Plant with gas, despite concerns raised by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that the utility's analysis of alternatives was faulty and that the project is at odds with President Biden’s clean energy goals.
Biden has called for a carbon-pollution-free energy sector by 2035. That’s a goal TVA has said it can’t achieve without technological breakthroughs in nuclear generation and energy storage. TVA has a goal of 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035 over 2005 levels and net-zero emissions by 2050.
The EPA’s new rule would require any new power plants, and many existing ones, to cut or capture nearly all their carbon dioxide emissions in the coming years. TVA released a statement saying it “will continue to evaluate these rules and potential impacts to our system.” | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/2023/05/12/tva-tennessee-coal-gas-carbon-greenhouse/9d61ccb4-f103-11ed-b67d-a219ec5dfd30_story.html | 2023-05-12T20:43:18 | 0 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/2023/05/12/tva-tennessee-coal-gas-carbon-greenhouse/9d61ccb4-f103-11ed-b67d-a219ec5dfd30_story.html |
Real estate giant CoStar Group is giving $18 million to Virginia Commonwealth University toward the building of its new arts building, school president Michael Rao announced Friday.
With the donation, the building will be called the CoStar Center for Arts and Innovation. CoStar CEO Andy Florance is a member of VCU's board of visitors.
The cost of the building has surged 40% since the project was proposed in 2019. Its price has risen from $181 million to $253 million because of inflation, higher construction costs and supply chain disruptions.
The state generally covers the cost of academic buildings, and the General Assembly agreed to pay all but $21 million. VCU's administration committee approved the higher cost Friday. Florance abstained from the vote.
The 200,000 square-foot building will have hybrid classroom-laboratories, performance space and more for arts students and other members of the university. VCU's arts school is its highest-ranked department by U.S. News & World Report. The building will be at the southeast intersection of Broad and North Belvidere streets.
CoStar, which owns Homes.com and Apartments.com, has a growing presence in Richmond. It is building a new office building near Tredegar Street and the James River that will be the city's tallest building.
The company has drawn a number of employees from VCU, the company said.
"As we continue to expand our business, our interests align seamlessly with VCU's commitment to educational excellence," Florance said in a statement.
Headquartered in Washington, CoStar expanded to Richmond in 2016 and employs 1,500 local residents. The new building is expected to more than double its local workforce.
From the Archives: Famous pop artist Andy Warhol visited Richmond several times
Eric Kolenich writes about higher education, health systems and more for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. He joined the newspaper in 2009 and spent 11 years in the Sports section. (804) 649-6109 | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/costar-giving-vcu-18-million-for-new-arts-and-innovation-building/article_af61369c-f0f0-11ed-bf28-0b701137660d.html | 2023-05-12T20:46:13 | 1 | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/costar-giving-vcu-18-million-for-new-arts-and-innovation-building/article_af61369c-f0f0-11ed-bf28-0b701137660d.html |
A New Kent County woman was playing her favorite scratch-off game while on the phone with her fiancé when she discovered that she won $2 million.
Marsha Rollins, of Quinton, won the top prize for the Money Blitz scratcher after purchasing the ticket at a Fairfax Safeway on 12200 Fairfax Towne Center.
“I never went to sleep; I was up all night!” Rollins said to Virginia Lottery officials. “I’m floating on cloud nine!”
The odds of winning the top prize are more than 1 in 1.14 million. This is the first grand winner for Money Blitz, with two other $2 million tickets yet to be claimed.
Rollins chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $1,250,000 before taxes. The other option would have paid her the full $2 million in annual payments across 30 years.
People are also reading…
Lottery profits go toward K-12 education across the commonwealth. New Kent K-12 schools received more than $1.2 million in lottery funds last fiscal year. | https://richmond.com/news/local/new-kent-county-woman-wins-2-million-from-lottery-scratcher/article_47f32f14-f0e2-11ed-b3c8-e7a1143ebe8c.html | 2023-05-12T20:46:19 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/new-kent-county-woman-wins-2-million-from-lottery-scratcher/article_47f32f14-f0e2-11ed-b3c8-e7a1143ebe8c.html |
The Midland Chamber of Commerce reported Thursday that its officials are assisting officials at the Horseshoe complex as the county attempts to operate the facility after terminating its operator.
During Monday’s meeting of the Midland County Commissioners’ Court, County Judge Terry Johnson, Precinct 3 Commissioner Luis Sanchez and Precinct 4 Commissioner Dianne Anderson voted to terminate the county’s contract with Horseshoe Hospitality Services.
“The success of the facilities in Midland, including the County Horseshoe and the Bush Convention Center, are important to the Chamber and VisitMidland,” Midland Chamber President and CEO Bobby Burns wrote. “They are economic generators that help money flow throughout Midland. VisitMidland drives events toward both facilities through the everyday work at the Chamber. It is our intention to help the Horseshoe where possible just like they have helped us. We will and we have provided options and ideas to assist as appropriate.”
Burns also wrote the chamber’s goal is not “to ultimately run the county Horseshoe. We have no desire to take on another facility of this magnitude. Our focus is on the Bush Convention Center. We are simply assisting our teammates at the county’s Horseshoe facility with referrals, resources and advice where possible, as we would in any situation. The Bush Convention Center is returning the favor for the county’s assistance during issues with our facility because we all recognize the value of working together.
“As we said, we wish the county success and will assist where needed, but please allow me to be crystal clear that it is not the chamber’s intention to compete for the contract to run the facility.”
The Horseshoe Pavilion is supposed to be the venue for University of Texas Permian Basin’s graduation on Saturday and the Spring into Summer Show starting May 19.
County creates hotline for ticket holders for future Horseshoe events
Midland County has created a hotline where residents can voice concerns about future events at the Horseshoe.
"In response to many members of the Commissioners' Court receiving several calls and emails of concern from Midland County residents, we have created a “hotline” for anyone worried about events that they have planned or have tickets to at the Horseshoe (complex)," a county spokesperson said.
Residents with concerns about events should call or text 432-235-0151 and leave a voicemail with their name and event information.
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is scheduled to have graduation ceremonies at the Horseshoe Pavilion this weekend.
UTPB commencement still happening at Horseshoe
After Monday’s County Commissioner’s Court resulted in the contract termination between the county and Horseshoe Hospitality Services, Midlanders throughout the city expressed concerns about events already on the schedule, including the University of Texas Permian Basin spring commencement being held Saturday.
The school has been hosting spring and summer commencement at the Horseshoe for the last several years because of large graduating classes too big for the Wagner Nöel Performing Arts Center.
Tatum Hubbard, chief of staff and VP of Communications and Marketing, told the Reporter-Telegram:
“We fully anticipate to move ahead as the contract allows us to do so. When I heard about the situation, I reached out to both the General Manager Joe Kelley and the county judge. Both were very responsive, helpful and all things are going to be smooth sailing for Saturday.” | https://www.mrt.com/news/local/article/midland-chamber-assists-horseshoe-operations-18094943.php | 2023-05-12T21:04:13 | 1 | https://www.mrt.com/news/local/article/midland-chamber-assists-horseshoe-operations-18094943.php |
Midland has experienced a 38.5% increase in identity theft reports since 2019, according to a study by Upgraded Points.
The study states there are 19.9 identity theft reports per 10,000 Midlanders.
The study also states that the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought a sharp increase in identity theft in the U.S. (likely caused by an increase in e-commerce transactions). Nationwide, the number of identity theft reports increased over 113% from 2019 to 2020 and remain at high levels, the study shows.
In 2022, there were 342 total reports of identity theft in Midland. The small metro area with the most identity theft reports was Macon-Bibb County, Georgia, where 933 were reported in 2022. | https://www.mrt.com/news/local/article/upgraded-points-study-identity-theft-reports-18096744.php | 2023-05-12T21:04:19 | 1 | https://www.mrt.com/news/local/article/upgraded-points-study-identity-theft-reports-18096744.php |
GREENSBORO — A Greensboro woman died after the car she was driving ran off the road into a tree early Friday, according to city police.
The driver, Martha Cue Milton, 70, was westbound on Phillips Avenue in her Mazda 5 Sport, police said.
Officers responded to the scene at 8:16 a.m.
Milton was pronounced dead at the scene by Guilford County EMS. Police are investigating the crash. | https://greensboro.com/news/local/accident-and-incident/greensboro-phillips-avenue-martha-cue-milton-police-tree-dead/article_31c9d920-f0fd-11ed-a28d-2bfd7f007c7e.html | 2023-05-12T21:10:23 | 0 | https://greensboro.com/news/local/accident-and-incident/greensboro-phillips-avenue-martha-cue-milton-police-tree-dead/article_31c9d920-f0fd-11ed-a28d-2bfd7f007c7e.html |
What started out as a pitch to host a Juneteenth-focused culminating event by Harborside Academy eighth-grader Layla Robinson grew to become the seventh and eighth grade class' culminating event, titled "Faces of Freedom: Breaking the Chains."
The event was held on Wednesday night at Harborside Academy, 913 57th St. It showcased works done by Harborside students throughout the semester.
Robinson had approached her history teacher David Underwood with the idea and it quickly expanded to include student presentations, an art gallery exhibit and a panel featuring "local elders."
Panelists included Alvin Owens, owner of Regimen Barber Collective; Veronica King, former president and secretary of the Kenosha branch of the NAACP; Molly Greymore, an Uptown Kenosha community activist; Andy Berg, Kenosha County Board supervisor for District 10; Yolanda Adams, Kenosha Unified School District School Board president; and Nikki Payne, Public Involvement and Outreach Manager for the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission.
People are also reading…
Robinson was able to showcase her knowledge at Harborside during the day.
"It's kind of indescribable," Robinson said. "(I enjoyed) actually getting to be in the classroom all day (and) getting to teach the students. I love seeing how they progressed."
Presentations at the event told the story of how the U.S. came to have a Juneteenth celebration, from the time of the transatlantic slave trade until the first celebration of Juneteenth, which marks the emancipation of over 250,000 enslaved people.
"The significance of this event is huge," Robinson said. "Being an African American myself, I love that we're really able to teach our history, not only to the students, but to the adults as well, so then they can go out and they can go back to their communities, and they can teach it too."
Underwood said the event was also significant because students were also blossoming into teachers.
"I didn't know the story (of Juneteenth) until a student taught me," Underwood said. "And I think that's something that is a silver lining in education: kids will teach you. They will show you."
Robinson said she hopes the Juneteenth culminating event will continue to be held.
"It's a start," Underwood said. "You always start a relationship with people, paneling, getting to know them, and then building that trust and moving forward into the next step."
Underwood said the student leadership aspect of the event is at the core of Harborside.
"That's who we are, trying to get kids to take the lead, supporting them along the way (and) making sure that they feel like their ideas matter, they're valued and you bring them in on the process," Underwood said.
Those who missed the art gallery can see it as the "Harborside Academy Juneteenth Reflection Exhibit; Breaking Our Silence: The Road to Freedom," in the Procaroine Classroom at the Civil Warm Museum, 5400 First Ave., June 17-25.
"It's just crazy wonderful ... My first thought was, 'I would love for it to be in the museum, but that's just not going to happen,'" Robinson said. "They agreed, and (I started) looking at all the amazing art we have in the art gallery upstairs and (thought) this is just going to look perfect. It's just really nice and it's all coming together." | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/harborside-students-lead-faces-of-freedom-breaking-the-chains-culminating-event-presentations/article_179060dc-ef96-11ed-9bff-c7a46d36dc77.html | 2023-05-12T21:11:56 | 1 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/harborside-students-lead-faces-of-freedom-breaking-the-chains-culminating-event-presentations/article_179060dc-ef96-11ed-9bff-c7a46d36dc77.html |
WILMOT -- Jennifer Hesse has accepted the position of fair manager for the Kenosha County Fair.
She assumed her new position on May 8. Denise Zirbel, who has been the current fair manager, will continue through the summer and lead the transition.
“We are grateful to Denise for her dedication the last eight years. Her leadership and vision have taken the Kenosha County Fair to new heights. Under her direction, the Kenosha County Fair expanded, developed new events at the fairgrounds and greatly enhanced the grounds and buildings of the 100-acre fair.” said Randall Rossi, Kenosha County Fair Board president.
Hesse will be the second full time fair manager for the Fair Association. She holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in Social Work and a Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in Therapeutic Recreation. Her most recent position was the Therapy Program director for the Southern Wisconsin Center.
People are also reading…
Hesse has been involved with the fair all of her life. “She is no stranger to the Fair and I’m excited to work with Jenny through this transition time.” said Zirbel.
Hesse had worked in the fair office for 14 years and is currently serving on the Executive Board of the Association. She volunteers by leading the Fairest of the Fair Committee and executing the Ag Olympics event during the fair. She was the 2012 Fairest of the Fair.
Hesse will be responsible for all operations on the fairgrounds including Wilmot Raceway and the Kenosha County Fair.
The 2023 Kenosha County Fair will be held Aug. 16-20 with a theme of “Barnyard Mardi Gras”. More details can be found online at kenoshacofair.com. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/jennifer-hesse-named-second-fair-manager-for-the-kenosha-county-fair/article_94e3ac1a-f0db-11ed-821f-7318d5c440cc.html | 2023-05-12T21:12:02 | 1 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/jennifer-hesse-named-second-fair-manager-for-the-kenosha-county-fair/article_94e3ac1a-f0db-11ed-821f-7318d5c440cc.html |
Fifteen local students have been recognized by the Kenosha Mayor's Youth Commission for special honors during the third quarter of the 2022-23 academic year.
Students recognized include:
Kenneth Bisher, a senior at Tremper High School. He is an active member at the Church at New Life, a pitcher on the Kenosha Nationals team, and has been involved with the Kenosha Dream Playground Project (Special Inspirational Kids) and with the Kenosha Conservatory of Music (guitar/piano lessons). He is part of the National Honor Society, Tremper Renaissance Program, the Tremper baseball team, band, and yearbook. He was nominated by school counselor, Brian Schultz.
Annabella Brown, an eighth grader at Lincoln Middle School, nominated by school counselor Sabrina Garner. She has outstanding leadership skills and exhibits integrityin class, clubs, and extracurricular activities. She shows great pride as a member of Student Council and National Honor Society. Her sportsmanship has been represented through being a star member of the girls’ basketball team, softball team, and track and field team. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her three years at Lincoln.
People are also reading…
Marciara Fuller, a senior at Bradford High School, nominated by mentor Felicia Dalton. She recently took part in Building Our Future’s Cohort that facilitated a discussion between school board candidates for the second year in a row. In this cohort she worked with other students from Kenosha Unified School District to plan an event that allowed her peers and community members to hear the candidate views on issues most impactful to them. She is also a member of the African American Female Initiative at Bradford High School. During the riots, she painted a mural that focused not only on the present but the future of people of color at Diver Dan’s. Shes also active in the Boys and Girls Club as a member and mentor.
Marisa Heinzen, a senior at Tremper High School, who was nominated by school counselor Samantha Rodriguez. She has over 100 hours of community service such as volunteering for Link Crew and the Lance Cheer Team. She has been accepted to Carthage with a passion for political science.
Charlotte Johnson, an eighth grader at All Saints Catholic School. She has been recognized for her writing in various essay contests, First Academic Honors 4.0, and most recently First Place in All Saints Catholic School’s Spelling Bee, all while traveling and performing with her ice skating clubs. Her goal is to inspire others, and she does so by modeling empathy, fortitude, honesty, and patience. She is another teacher in the classroom and a natural leader. She was nominated by Francesca Capelli.
Sasha Johnson, an eighth grader at Lincoln Middle School. Her academic accomplishments have earned her a nomination and induction into the National Junior Honor Society. Sasha finds the time to lead in Orchestra and other extracurricular activities while consistently maintaining her 4.0 GPA. In addition, she possesses natural leadership qualities that have given her the achievement to be elected as class president by the student body as well as Student Council members at Lincoln. She was elected president of her local 4H organization this year. She a competitive swimmer at the Rec Plex and a member of the track team at Lincoln. Sasha has great sportsmanship. She was nominated by school counselor Sabrina Garner.
Morgan Kelsey, a senior at Bradford High School. Her title of the Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Kenosha makes her truly deserving. The DYW competition is based on high academic, positive character and school and community involvement. She was nominated by school counselor Robin Mars.
Madlie Kless, an eighth grader at All Saints Catholic School. Her engagement includes Safety Patrol, Student Council Publicity Chair, as well as cast and crew member of the Middle School musical. Additionally, she is a member of the track and field, basketball and cross country teams. She was nominated by Mary Aicher.
Myisha Noble, a senior at Tremper High School. she was one of the two student masters of ceremonies for the African American Youth Initiative’s Black History Month acknowledgment and celebration at Tremper. She also had a prominent role in educating her classmates during the entire month of February. She was one of the main presenters in the student videos that were shown each week leading up to the event.
Carlos M. Rivera Acevedo, a junior at Bradford High School, was nominated by Wendy Johnson. He is a Boys & Girls Club member, and also a member of our Be Great Graduate program. He has been involved in the Environmental Club, is president of Latino Empowerment, and track. His academic success includes receiving six college credits and having completed 243 hours of community service.
Olivia Robertson, a senior at Indian Trail High School. She has led meetings, planned events, planned activities for a girls youth group, and prepared lessons. In addition, she also volunteers at school through The National Honor Society by volunteering at multiple blood drives and assisting with fundraising efforts and at sports events. She is also involved in other school activities, namely tennis, soccer, DECA, Link Crew, Youth Apprenticeship, Family, Community, Career Leaders of America (FCCLA), and Forensics. She maintains a very high GPA, has a job to earn money for college, and she attends an early morning church class before school each day. She was nominated by her church youth leade, Jennifer Seivert.
Madalyn Scheppler, an eighth grader at All Saints Catholic School, was nominated by teacher Suzette Bilotti. She is an outstanding student at ASCS, with ongoing recognition of First Honor Roll. She has been a member of student government throughout her Middle School career, participates in weekly school masses, in choir and in stage crew for many theater productions. Her talents and leadership skills are also shown by being a member of the school’s volleyball team.
Vincio Truong, n eighth grader at All Saints Catholic School who participates in the school’s choir and soccer. He attends mass every weekend and participates in school mass every Tuesday. He has received first honors (4.0 GPA) all year so far. He also helps out his classmates with studying for any class, which includes making study materials. He was nominated by teacher Laura Clements.
Camdaen Vorpagel, an eighth grader at All Saints Catholic School, was nominated by teacher Sr. Mary Doris Anne Okere. She has First Academic Honors each quarter and has read and met the 40 Books Challenge which met the school’s yearly reading challenge. She has been awarded the VIP (Virtues In Practice) Student of the Month for courtesy, generosity, diligence, fortitude, and honesty. she is part of the school’s girls volleyball, track, and cross country teams. After school, she participates in a Religious Education program and volunteers in the second and third grade classes.
Elizabeth Whitter, an 11th grader at Tremper High School, was nominated by counselor Matt Kellner. She has given over 100 hours of community service to projects like Feed My Starving Children, supports music and Boy Scout projects and helping to support various parts of Tremper. She competed at the state Solo & Ensemble for visa solo, viola duet, quartet, string choir, and chamber orchestra.
The Mayor’s Youth Commission created an awards program to recognize the community’s youth for their outstanding personal achievements and the important, positive contributions they make to the Kenosha community. Nomination forms can be obtained in the Mayor’s Office, Room 300, in the Municipal Building, or on the internet at www.kenosha.org under the tab Mayor/Administration. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/kenosha-mayors-youth-commission-honors-local-students-with-third-quarter-awards/article_012e30da-eb59-11ed-81ec-47705389c3b2.html | 2023-05-12T21:12:09 | 0 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/kenosha-mayors-youth-commission-honors-local-students-with-third-quarter-awards/article_012e30da-eb59-11ed-81ec-47705389c3b2.html |
R&B star Khalid coming to Simpsonville for Voyage Musical Festival. How to get tickets.
R&B singer Khalid will headline the Voyage Music Festiva's stop in Simpsonville, Sept. 29-30.
Khalid, known for his hits, "Location," "1-800-273-8255," "Softest Touch" and "Talk," has six Grammy Award nominations, six Billboard Music Awards, three American Music Awards and a MTV Video Music Award.
The singer, with collaborations with Billie Eilish, Halsey, Benny Blanco, among others, was named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2019.
The festival at Simpsonville's CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park will also feature Quinn XCII, Two Friends, Mike., Bryce Vine, Arizona, Arden Jones and Charlieonnafriday. The last artist in the lineup is yet to be announced.
"Prepare for liftoff, music lovers! Voyage Music Festival is here to take you on a journey," a post on the event's Facebook page stated. "Lace up your kicks, gather your crew, and make your way to Greenville, where we've got an epic lineup set to ignite the stage."
Festival goers can look forward to arts and crafts vendors, a Ferris wheel, food trucks, hot air balloon rides and silent disco. The two-day event is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 29 from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 30 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Presale tickets go on sale May 17-18. General public tickets go on sale Friday, May 19. Click here for more information.
Nina Tran covers trending topics for the Greenville News. Reach her via email at ntran@gannett.com. | https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/golden-strip/2023/05/12/khalid-coming-to-simpsonville-for-voyage-musical-festival-greenville-ccnb-ampitheatre-pop-star/70211449007/ | 2023-05-12T21:19:31 | 0 | https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/golden-strip/2023/05/12/khalid-coming-to-simpsonville-for-voyage-musical-festival-greenville-ccnb-ampitheatre-pop-star/70211449007/ |
WATERLOO — A Waterloo man awaiting trial for weapons charges in a 2021 fatal shooting has been arrested again.
Waterloo police arrested Marcus Robert Sykes, 27, for possession of marijuana with intent to deliver after officers searched his home on West Ninth Street Thursday morning. He was released Friday after posting bond.
Sykes was charged with felon in possession of a firearm and flight to avoid prosecution in connection with a May 15, 2021, shooting in the 1400 block of Grant Avenue that left Dayton Lee Matlock-Buss, 23, dead.
No one has been arrested for killing Matlock-Buss, but authorities allege Skyes was in possession of a handgun and in the area around the time of the shooting, according to court records.
Matlock remained at large until January 2022 when he was detained in Wisconsin. He was transferred to federal prison to serve time in connection with an unrelated gun charge and then returned to Iowa in December 2022. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/charges-added-for-man-awaiting-trial-in-2021-shooting/article_887e6715-5864-5dbd-beed-d53683fd0673.html | 2023-05-12T21:24:22 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/charges-added-for-man-awaiting-trial-in-2021-shooting/article_887e6715-5864-5dbd-beed-d53683fd0673.html |
CHICAGO — In 2007, Reginald Lane shot and killed Jwonda Thurston, his pregnant girlfriend. For the murder, he was sentenced to life in prison, following state statute for someone who is found guilty of killing “more than one victim.”
On Thursday, the Illinois Supreme Court heard arguments in Lane’s case, specifically around whether Lane was given the appropriate sentence. Lane’s appeal hinges, in part, on whether Thurston’s unborn child can be considered a “victim” of the murder and, more broadly, whether it can be considered an “individual” under the law.
“As it stands now, the unified code of corrections defines a victim as any natural person who suffered direct harm,” Talon Nouri, an attorney representing Lane, told the justices. “And again, the statute on statutes notes that whenever the word ‘person’ or ‘individual’ is used, that person must have first been born alive.”
Nouri also cited the state’s Reproductive Health Act, a 2019 law that, among other things, stipulates fetuses do not have independent rights in the state of Illinois.
In addition to the question of what constitutes a “victim” under state law, Nouri also argued Lane’s sentence was inappropriately applied because the lower courts had sentenced Lane in alignment with the sentence for a double murder.
Lane was convicted of both first-degree murder and killing an unborn child – also called feticide – which are two distinct crimes.
“While the penalty section of the ‘intentional homicide of an unborn child’ statute states that the sentence shall be the same as for first degree murder, the relevant statutes and definitions unambiguously exclude intentional homicide of an unborn child from this double murder sentencing statute,” Nouri told the court.
Assistant Attorney General Josh Schneider, who argued the case on behalf of the state, relied on the statute’s language identifying the sentence for feticide as being the same as murder.
“When a person is convicted of intentional homicide of an unborn child, the sentence they receive for that offense is the same sentence they would receive if they had been convicted of first-degree murder under those same circumstances,” Schneider said.
Several justices interrogated that line of reasoning.
“So we really don’t even need to go to these definitions in the other statutes because the legislature has directed us to apply the same sentence as in murder?” Justice Lisa Holder White asked of Schneider.
“That’s exactly right,” Schneider replied.
The justices took the matter under consideration with a ruling to come at a later, unspecified date.
Stop and frisk
The justices on Thursday also considered the case of Francisco Lozano.
In 2018, Lozano was the subject of a “Terry stop,” sometimes also known as a “stop and frisk” or “field interview” in Chicago’s East Garfield Park neighborhood.
From their unmarked police car, two officers noticed Lozano running on a rainy afternoon with his hands in his pockets. After turning their car around, officers saw him run up the stairs of an abandoned apartment building before stopping him and finding that he had a car radio, two screwdrivers and a wallet.
As a result of this stop, Lozano was eventually found guilty of burglary to a vehicle and possession of burglary tools.
Lozano’s lawyer, Pamela Rubeo, argued the police violated Lozano’s 4th Amendment right against unlawful search and seizure by stopping him for “running in the rain.”
“The parties agree the officers needed reasonable suspicion of criminal activity at the inception of this stop,” Rubeo told the court. “Here, no such reasonable suspicion existed.”
Assistant Attorney General Jalan Jaskot, who argued on behalf of the state, told the justices that police had reasonable suspicion by the time they stopped Lozano, citing the behavior that police observed as they approached Lozano for the stop.
This received some pushback from Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis, who referenced the lower court’s opinion on the case.
“According to the officer’s own testimony, the reason why he stopped him was to conduct a field interview and ask him why he was running,” Theis noted during oral arguments. “Why shouldn’t we just accept that was the basis of the stop – as the officer himself described – and evaluate whether that was an appropriate Terry stop?”
Jaskot responded that the officers saw Lozano “flee” to the abandoned building when they turned their car around and that while they were approaching, they saw a “bulge” in Lozano’s front sweatshirt pocket, giving them reasonable suspicion for a Terry stop.
“If the facts of this case were simply that the defendant was running in the rain, officers would not have the reasonable suspicion to conduct that Terry stop,” Jaskot said after further questioning on the subject from the justices. “However that is not all that we have. Very importantly, we also have the defendant’s evasive behavior where he did change that direction and run towards this building that appeared abandoned.”
Rubeo also argued that some evidence in Lozano’s trial was inappropriately introduced, as it was taken from statements Lozano gave during his arrest, without being given a Miranda warning, a set of notifications police are required to give people they arrest. These notifications include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney and the warning that anything a defendant says can be used against them in court, among other things.
In their court filing, the attorney general’s office argued that Lozano forfeited the chance to suppress the statements he made before being given a Miranda warning because his lawyers failed to bring it up in his trial.
The case will also be considered by the justices, although there is not a set timeline for how long they will take to deliver a final opinion.
‘Riding the circuit’
The justices did not hear arguments for these cases at their typical venue at the Supreme Court’s building in Springfield. Rather, the court was “riding the circuit” and heard arguments on the campus of Chicago State University on Chicago’s South Side.
The court uses a version of the historical practice of judges traveling to district courts to “raise public awareness and confidence in the judicial branch,” according to Theis.
It’s a practice that had been temporarily stalled in recent years amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The court held a virtual “riding the circuit” program in 2021 in conjunction with schools from the state’s Second Judicial District in northern Illinois. The court’s previous in-person road trip took place in Sept. 2019 when arguments were heard at Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey.
“It is the first time in our history of this court and our state that we have come to the First District here in Chicago,” Theis told attendees of the arguments on Thursday.
Around 300 students from schools around the region attended the event. Following the oral arguments, students participated in a question-and-answer session with representatives of the Cook County Bar Association. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/illinois-supreme-court-considers-whether-a-fetus-can-be-a-victim-of-murder/article_90e463be-f105-11ed-b7e1-6fea5ed0c1e4.html | 2023-05-12T21:24:38 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/illinois-supreme-court-considers-whether-a-fetus-can-be-a-victim-of-murder/article_90e463be-f105-11ed-b7e1-6fea5ed0c1e4.html |
NORMAL — Illinois State University tuition will increase again next year, with the cost for full-time undergraduate students, before financial aid, coming in at $27,047.
The ISU Board of Trustees voted on the increase at its May board meeting on Friday.
"Setting tuition and fees is always a complex exercise, but the impact of employee wage increases and minimum wage law, increases in financial aid, inflationary increases in operational expenditures and deferred maintenance and capital projects highlight the importance of the university's goal of balancing fiscal accessibility for current and future students," said ISU Interim President Aondover Tarhule.
The total cost is increasing from $26,335 last year, an overall increase of 2.7%. That includes a 1.9% increase in both undergraduate and graduate tuition, a 1.9% increase in mandatory fees and the outreach fee, and a 4% increase in room and board costs. Room and board increased by 3% to 4.5% last year.
Under state law, undergraduate students have their tuition locked in for four years, so most current students will not be affected by the tuition increase. They will, however, face higher fees.
Staff said the general activity fee increase within the mandatory fees will support new programs that are needed for retaining students and addressing their well-being.
These programs include a corresponding program that will match a case manager with police personnel to address issues within the residential environments and the Safe Redbirds program.
Although the tuition increase will generate additional revenue, the rate at which expenses have increased has grown, Tarhule said. For example, the university spent approximately $25 million on financial aid in 2015 and it now spends about $47 million.
"Our costs are rising far faster than the revenue that we can generate from increased tuition," Tarhule said. "So even with this tuition increase (that) we're proposing, the university is still being pinched by reduced margins of operations, and this why we have a need for the increases that we must bring to the board."
Room and board costs will go up by 4% for all campus housing, including at the Cardinal Court Apartments. Semester rates vary from $2,871 per person for a multi-occupancy dorm room to $6,401 for a two-bed, two-bath Cardinal Court apartment with two residents.
Expenditures and payments
The board approved the university's expenditures for a total of $529,950, which is a 4% increase over last year's expenses.
Tarhule said increases are anticipated in personnel services like minimum wage salary agreements and awards and grants, including student financial aid.
Capital investments for planned deferred maintenance and renovations continue to increase due to the continued need to improve existing facility and student-related spaces, Tarhule said.
The board will vote on the final operating budget for 2024 at its October meeting.
In other news, the board approved multiple bachelor's degree programs, including a data science major for the College of Arts and Sciences, followed by engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.
The board also swore in newly-appointed member Lia Merminga, who was named to the board in February, along with Scott Jenkins.
Other business for Friday's meeting includes the following:
- Authorized a new School of Creative Technologies
- Authorized to increase contract with Pearl for the Illinois Tutoring Initiative Online Tutoring Platform
- Authorized acquisition of property insurance
- Authorized a lease agreement for warehouse space at 1201 E. Bell St., Bloomington
- Authorized approval of DeGarmo Hall Plaza deck repairs
- Authorized contract for two-way radio service
- Renewed athletics ticketing system agreement
- Renewed sports supply agreement with current vendor BSN
- Authorized to name Barb Dallinger Crew Room
- Authorized to name Pam and Dan Kelley Family Student and Staff Work Room
- Authorized to name Beth and Jay Matthews Innovation and Technology Room
- Authorized to name William and Betty Duff and Robert and Mary Neubrander Administrative Faculty Office
- Authorized to name Smith Family Conference Room
- Authorized to name Seelinger/Trites Conference Room | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/education/illinois-state-university-approves-tuition-increase-for-2023-24/article_14b6c65e-f0e9-11ed-b3f2-af25598a6388.html | 2023-05-12T21:24:44 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/education/illinois-state-university-approves-tuition-increase-for-2023-24/article_14b6c65e-f0e9-11ed-b3f2-af25598a6388.html |
What the heck is going on in Tucson this weekend? We'll tell you.
On the roster: a free community day at Tohono Chul, a beer fest at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, an Asian Heritage Month celebration, a Y2K bash at Hotel Congress, live music in two parks, events for Mother's Day ... and more!
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest information before heading out!
Chocolate Factory Tour
If you love "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" as much as our food writer Ellice Lueders does, this might be your dream come true. Take a tour of Monsoon Chocolate's factory to see how the chocolate is made.
When: Various times and dates through May
Where: Monsoon Chocolate, 234 E. 22nd St.
People are also reading…
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Gather A Vintage Market
Find all kinds of vintage and antique home and garden items at this four-day market.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, May 11-13; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Gather A Vintage Market, 300 S. Park Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Take a look at Tucson Parks and Recreation's summer indoor leisure classes and summer camp offerings
Classes range from arts and crafts, Little Movers and Shakers, dance, gymnastics, jewelry making, glass fusing, music, and more for youth and adults. KIDCO Summer Camps (5-11 years old), In-Betweeners Club (12-14 years old), and Jr. Staff in Training (14-17 years old), will be offered in June and July. For more information, visit the Parks and Rec website.
Discovery Nights at Children's Museum Tucson
Visit Children's Museum Tucson for a free night of science and art, including story times and pop-up science experiments.
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Children's Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Hot Mama Market
Local maker The Serene Essentials is putting together this Friday's Hot Mama Market featuring eight local makers selling items like earrings, crochet cacti and Filipino sweets. There will also be a custom hat bar, tooth gems, a photo booth and a DJ.
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: The Downtown Clifton, 485 S. Stone Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
The Happy Hive Market
Head to Button Brew House for The Happy Hive Market, complete with more than 20 local makers and two food trucks.
When: 4:30-8 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food, drinks and shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Parents Night Out
Tucson Parks and Recreation is hosting Parents Night Out with three hours of kid-friendly activities including crafts, games and a showing of "Alice in Wonderland." Kids must be ages 5-11.
When: 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: Udall Recreation Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $5 per child. Call 520-791-4931 to register. Registration is limited.
Visit the event page for more information.
Stars Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert
May the 4th, aka Star Wars Day, is now over but that doesn't mean the love for Star Wars has to come to an end. Beyond the music, take photos with Star Wars characters and join in on a costume contest!
When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 12; 2 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: $18 and up
Visit the event page for more information.
Movie and a Cuddle at the Humane Society
Kiddos can head to the Humane Society to read to shelter pets, enjoy a pizza dinner and close the night out with a movie. There will be crafts too! Kids are invited to wear their favorite pajamas, and bring a blanket and stuffed animals.
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: Humane Society of Southern Arizona, 635 W. Roger Road
Cost: $35
Visit the event page for more information.
Barrio Bargains
Vintage shop Strikes and Gutters is hosting a market at the Owls Club, set to feature 15 local vendors selling items like jewelry and mixed media.
When: 5-10 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: Owls Club, 236 S. Scott Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Cafecito: Accessing Capital
This casual bilingual conversation, hosted by the Sunnyside Foundation, will discuss resources and tools to "better understand how money works, how to manage it and build financial confidence." Coffee and pan dulce will be provided!
When: 9-11 a.m. Friday, May 12
Where: FORGE at Roy Place, 44 N. Stone Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Paint and Tea Sip
Sip on tea at The Korean Rose, all while creating a groovy painting on vinyl.
When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: The Korean Rose, 6118 E. Speedway
Cost: $35
Visit the event page for more information.
Art Corner with BICAS
Get free access to recycled bike art parts, tools and other materials and get creative! Once you're finished, you can donate your creation to BICAS or give a suggested donation to the nonprofit, if you're able to. Check in at the front counter before heading to the art area.
When: 4-6 p.m. Fridays
Where: BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, donation suggested
Visit the event page for more information.
Cat trivia at El Jefe Cat Lounge
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Lounge all while testing your knowledge during trivia night.
When: 7-8 p.m. Friday, May 12
Where: El Jefe Cat Lounge, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $15 for trivia, adults only.
Visit the event page for more information.
Party for the Planet
Sip on Southwest brews at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum's craft beer festival. Beyond the tastings, you can touch a stingray, enjoy the sounds of a DJ and taste local snacks.
When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road
Cost: General admission is $65; $35 for designated drivers; VIP options are also available. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Asian Heritage Month Celebration
The Tucson Chinese Cultural Center is hosting an Asian Heritage Month Celebration with several performances including a Chinese lion dance and traditional Japanese drumming.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Community Day at Tohono Chul
Tohono Chul is opening its doors for free on May 13 in celebration of Community Day! In addition to free admission, families will enjoy performances, bilingual story time, up-close encounters with reptiles and other kid-friendly activities.
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 Paseo del Norte
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Bex and Halsero's Y2K Party
DJs will spin 2000s music all night at this Y2K party featuring the sounds of Britney Spears, Destiny's Child and Usher.
When: 10 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association
Learn about the sky with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association! The group is hosting two events this weekend, including one for stargazing and one for solar observing.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, May 13 for stargazing; 1 p.m. Sunday, May 14 for solar observing
Where: Catalina State Park on May 13, 11570 N. Oracle Road; Saguaro National Park East on May 14, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail
Cost: Free to attend, park entrance fee may apply.
Visit the event page for more information.
2nd Saturdays
Check out food trucks, live music and local makers during this monthly outdoor street festival.
When: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Downtown Tucson along East Congress Street
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Art After Dark at Children's Museum Tucson
Each month, Children's Museum Tucson hosts Art After Dark with local arts groups and free admission! This month, nonprofit Beads of Courage will be there.
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Children's Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Music in the Park
Arizona Symphonic Winds are kicking off their "Music in the Park" summer series this month. Bring your own chairs and blankets!
When: 7 p.m. Saturdays, May 13 through June 3
Where: Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Drag Queen Bingo
Roxi Starr is hosting Drag Queen Bingo!
When: 7-8 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin
Cost: Free to play, bring money for drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Mother's Day High Tea Fundraiser
The Tucson Celtic Festival Association is hosting a Mother's Day High Tea Fundraiser, complete with scones, pastries, salads and dainty sandwiches. Proceeds go toward the 37th annual Tucson Celtic Festival and Scottish Highland Games later this year.
When: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2450 E. Fort Lowell Road
Cost: $30 for ages 13 and up, $20 for kids ages 12 and under
Visit the event page for more information.
Crawfish Boil
Head to FireTruck Brewing Company for crawfish from New Orleans. A ticket to the event includes a pound of crawfish, a potato, corn, Andouille sausage and Cajun dirty rice.
When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: FireTruck Brewing Company, 9630 N. Oracle Road
Cost: $19.95, tickets must be purchased in advance.
Visit the event page for more information.
Second Saturday at Steam Pump Ranch
Steam Pump Ranch is home to this monthly event featuring a farmers market, local vendors and crafts for kids.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 13
Where: Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Mother's Day Pop-up at El Be Goods
El Be Goods is hosting a Mother's Day pop-up featuring local maker La Luna Coyote, who creates fun home decor out of concrete. You'll be able to build your own succulent planter, enter a raffle for a gift certificate and enjoy free bubbles!
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: El Be Goods, 160 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Black-and-White Photography Exhibition
Decode Gallery is hosting an exhibit dedicated to black-and-white photos taken by local and international artists.
When: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Decode Gallery, 320 S. Convent Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Mother's Day 5K
This 5K takes place in Marana, followed by a free fun run for kids.
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Gladden Farms Community Park, 12205 N. Tangerine Farms Road
Cost: $30
Visit the event page for more information.
Goat yoga
Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with this class at Udall Park!
When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Udall Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Jazz under the Stars at Tohono Chul
Visit Tohono Chul's Garden Bistro for their last Jazz under the Stars event for the spring season! Enjoy cocktails, brews and bites, all while listening to local jazz.
When: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Walking tours with the Presidio Museum
Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. This weekend's tour is of the Turquoise Trail, where you'll learn Tucson history and see historic buildings.
When: 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Ave.
Cost: $25. Pre-registration is required.
Visit the event page for more information.
St. Philip's Plaza Market
Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers and enjoy live music. While you're there, grab a bite to eat at one of the plaza's several eateries.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays and Sundays
Where: St. Philip's Plaza, 4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater
At this event, you'll get to enjoy dinner from Dante's Fire, all while watching a magical theatrical performance.
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: Dante's Fire, 2526 E. Grant Road
Cost: $49 without dinner, $79 with dinner
Visit the event page for more information.
Fruit Cocktail Lounge
Head downtown for an LGBTQ+ cocktail party and social at The Century Room at Hotel Congress! Enjoy cocktails, small plates and entertainment.
When: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: The Century Room, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $6. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Second SundAZe at TMA
Visit the Tucson Museum of Art every second Sunday for pay-what-you-wish admission. Enjoy art-making activities like DIY suncatchers and paper flowers, family yoga and a performance by the Arizona Women's Chorus.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave.
Cost: Pay what you wish
Visit the event page for more information.
Mercado Flea
Check out more than 45 vendors selling antique and vintage items at the Mercado Flea.
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Mercado District, 100 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Ride with FUGA
Take a bike ride with organization FUGA, which advocates for mobility, accessibility and representation for Tucson's south-side and west-side communities.
When: 8-10 a.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Ward 1, 940 W. Alameda St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Pops Orchestra Concert Series
Tucson Pops Orchestra is back for another year of concerts in Reid Park. The series features special guests including Joe Bourne, Crystal Stark and Homero Ceron.
When: 7 p.m. Sundays in May
Where: DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Reid Park, 800 S. Concert Place
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Mother's Day Sip and Jewelry Creation
Celebrate Mother's Day at The Tuxon, where Tipsy Picassos will hold a workshop on creating your own piece of jewelry. The afternoon also includes champagne and chocolate truffles!
When: Noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: The Tuxon, 960 S. Freeway
Cost: $55
Visit the event page for more information.
Mother's Day at AZ Hops and Vines
Take a road trip to Sonoita for Mother's Day! Enjoy wine, charcuterie and live music at AZ Hops and Vines.
When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: AZ Hops and Vines, 3450 AZ-82, Sonoita
Cost: $75
Visit the event page for more information.
WenchComedy's 7th Anniversary Showcase
WenchComedy is celebrating its 7th birthday with a comedy show on Mother's Day.
When: 6-8 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: $10
Visit the event page for more information.
Larrea Market at Rozet Nursery
Head to Rozet Nursery every second and fourth Sunday of the month for a market featuring local vendors, classes and tarot readings. Food truck Samurai Sombrero will be there!
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Rozet Nursery, 7707 E. 22nd St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping, food and classes
Visit the event page for more information.
Wine Slushies for Mom
Moms can visit Charron Vineyards and Winery in Vail this Mother's Day for live music and discounts on wine slushies!
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 14. Live music is 2-4 p.m.
Where: Charron Vineyards and Winery, 18585 S. Sonoita Hwy
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for wine slushies
Visit the event page for more information.
Mother's Day Tea Party
Local nonprofit Spark Project Collective is hosting a tea party for all the moms in our lives. All attendees will get to take home their own teacup!
When: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, May 14
Where: Four of Wands, 4349 E. Broadway
Cost: $10. Sign up in advance.
Visit the event page for more information. | https://tucson.com/news/local/44-fun-events-happening-in-tucson-this-weekend-may-11-14/article_beb6c598-f01f-11ed-90bd-eb7311a2de7c.html | 2023-05-12T21:27:24 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/44-fun-events-happening-in-tucson-this-weekend-may-11-14/article_beb6c598-f01f-11ed-90bd-eb7311a2de7c.html |
A motorcyclist was killed in a crash Thursday night on Tucson’s east side, police said.
Dillon Alexander Long, 22, was traveling near South Prudence Road and East Escalante Road about 8 p.m. when he collided with a Nissan hatchback that was at a stop sign, a Tucson police news release Friday said.
Long, who was wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Nissan, a woman in her 50s, was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.
This is the eighth fatal motorcycle crash TPD has investigated this year, which is one more than at this time last year.
Jamie Donnelly covers breaking news for the Arizona Daily Star. Contact her via e-mail at jdonnelly@tucson.com | https://tucson.com/news/local/accident-and-incident/motorcyclist-killed-in-crash-on-tucsons-east-side/article_eeb26fa2-f0ee-11ed-853a-0fa9175fcb5a.html | 2023-05-12T21:27:27 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/accident-and-incident/motorcyclist-killed-in-crash-on-tucsons-east-side/article_eeb26fa2-f0ee-11ed-853a-0fa9175fcb5a.html |
BOISE, Idaho — The Ada County Coroner on Friday identified the man who died after he was struck by a vehicle in downtown Boise on May 1 as 66-year-old Jeffrey Garrett. According to Boise Police, Garrett died at a local hospital on Thursday, May 11.
Police said Garrett was hit by a vehicle on 16th Street in Boise around 5:45 p.m. on May 1. The coroner lists his cause of death as "multiple blunt force injuries."
The Boise man was walking east to west across 16th Street, under an overpass, when he was struck by a vehicle traveling south on 16th, according to the Boise Police Department. The incident happened near Rhodes Skate Park.
Officers and BPD's crash reconstruction team responded to the scene, blocking off surrounding roads while police investigated.
The Boise Police investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed.
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/victim-id-fatal-pedestrian-vehicle-crash-may-1-downtown-boise/277-c6819956-865f-47d4-9e86-c1c4c02446e2 | 2023-05-12T21:32:49 | 0 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/victim-id-fatal-pedestrian-vehicle-crash-may-1-downtown-boise/277-c6819956-865f-47d4-9e86-c1c4c02446e2 |
Alleged drug dealer among feds' 'most wanted' extradited to Detroit
Detroit — An alleged drug dealer, a dual citizen of Laos and Canada who was on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigation’s Ten Most Wanted list, has been extradited from Canada to face drug trafficking charges in Detroit, federal officials announced Friday.
Khaophone Sychantha, 41, was indicted by a grand jury in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in December 2005, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
"Further investigation by agents of HSI Detroit led to charges in a superseding indictment returned in October 2013, charging Sychantha and three additional defendants," the release said.
Sychantha faces charges of with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, ecstasy, BZP (benzylpiperazine) and marijuana between 2003 and 2011, the release said.
The defendant is also charged with three counts of possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and ecstasy.
"Following these American indictments, Sychantha was also charged and arrested in Canada on three separate Canadian criminal cases," the release said. "In 2014, Sychantha fled while under house arrest in Canada. HSI Detroit subsequently added Sychantha to the Homeland Security Investigation’s Ten Most Wanted List and offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to his capture."
Sychantha was arrested near Montreal in 2017 after he assaulted a police officer and led cops on a "short pursuit," officials said Friday.
Since the arrest, Sychantha has remained in Canadian custody while he contested his extradition along with two Canadian co-defendants, according to the release.
Sychantha appeared Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Anthony P. Patti.
“I commend the work of the agents from HSI and Canadian law enforcement for pursuing this long-time fugitive and significant drug trafficker,” U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison said in a statement Friday. “Thanks to the coordinated efforts of our international partners, Sychantha will now face justice in the United States." | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2023/05/12/alleged-drug-dealer-among-feds-most-wanted-extradited-to-detroit/70213238007/ | 2023-05-12T21:38:58 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2023/05/12/alleged-drug-dealer-among-feds-most-wanted-extradited-to-detroit/70213238007/ |
Man held without bond in Pontiac fatal shooting
Pontiac — A 32-year-old man is being held without bond in connection with the fatal shooting this week of a 66-year-old victim amid an argument, Oakland County authorities announced Friday.
Maurice Sanders was arraigned Friday in Pontiac's 50th District Court on charges that include open murder, assault with a dangerous weapon and being a felon in possession of a weapon, the Sheriff's Office said.
Judge Jeremy Bowie ordered Sanders held without bond and set a May 23 court date.
Sanders is charged in the death of Pontiac resident Wyatt Earp Gean on Monday, sheriff's officials said in a statement.
"On Monday shortly before 3 a.m., Oakland County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the 700 block of Whittemore St. on a report of shots fired," the release said. "Deputies arrived at a residence to find that Gean had been shot in the chest. He was transported to a local hospital where he died from his injuries during surgery."
Detectives linked the death to Sanders and arrested him within 11 hours of the shooting, which happened after an argument, according to the Sheriff's Office.
Sanders has a criminal record dating to 2007 with convictions in Florida and Georgia on vehicle theft, drug possession, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon as well as fleeing from police, sheriff's officials said Friday.
ghunter@detroitnews.com
(313) 222-2134
Twitter: @GeorgeHunter_DN | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/oakland-county/2023/05/12/man-held-without-bond-in-pontiac-fatal-shooting/70213528007/ | 2023-05-12T21:39:04 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/oakland-county/2023/05/12/man-held-without-bond-in-pontiac-fatal-shooting/70213528007/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – An Oregon teacher and mother of two is on a mission to inspire her children and the community, through her role as a superstar rookie for the Oregon Ravens women’s professional football team.
Rookie Defensive Back Kelly Schaffer got her start in the game by playing flag football in high school and college before joining the Oregon women’s tackle team.
“I never dreamed this was going to be possible for me, and mainly, because I’m a woman,” Schaffer said. “When I come out on the field, I feel in power, I feel amazing and I feel like I want other young girls, and I want my students, and my sons and I want everyone to have this feeling of importance, of empowerment, of just feeling like you can face challenges. And with a team next to you, you can do anything.”
Oregon Ravens players include women from different professions, from doctors and police officers to Schaffer’s work as an online teacher at Willamette Connections Academy.
Schaffer says she’s grateful to teach online to balance the physical demands of football and motherhood.
“It allows me to work the job that I love, it allows me to play the sports that I love, it allows me to still be mom,” Schaffer said.
While playing the sport she loves, Schaffer hopes to inspire the community.
“I feel like football is a metaphor for life and it’s teaching me life skills fast and right now. And I feel like if I’m able to face these challenges, if I’m out there and able to face a linebacker who wants to hit really hard and is going to, then I can tell my students ‘Yes, you can read this difficult text, you can read Shakespeare, you can express this really complex idea,'” Schaffer said.
“One of our main goals is to create a movement for women in sports, for other women, especially young girls, to see that this is possible, that they can come out here, that this is an opportunity for us and finally win and have the same opportunity to compete at the highest level,” Schaffer said. “I was able to show my sons I’m not just mom that does your lunches, that makes your dinner and cleans the house but, I can rock it out on the field.”
The Oregon Ravens will host their northwest rivals, the Seattle Majestics, at 6 p.m. Saturday at Milwaukie High School. The squad will also be honoring moms for Mother’s Day weekend. | https://www.koin.com/local/you-can-do-anything-oregon-ravens-player-aims-to-inspire-community-through-football/ | 2023-05-12T21:39:11 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/you-can-do-anything-oregon-ravens-player-aims-to-inspire-community-through-football/ |
GARY — Fist-grader Yvonne Crowdner, 7, chose the book “The Aristocats” because it’s her favorite movie. Ditto for classmate Maverick Williams, 7, in choosing “The Jungle Book.”
School House Children’s Charity facilitated a free Mother’s Day book giveaway Friday to help encourage early childhood literacy. Throughout the day, students and teachers in every classroom could select a donated book to take home.
Brian Andreshak, a first-grade teacher at Glen Park Academy, and founder of School House Children’s Charity, a nonprofit supporting and supplementing the basic needs of area young people, organized the event.
“We are committed to building a future in which all children have access to comfort, safety and the learning tools necessary to support their education,” Andreshak said. “Our goal is to remove practical obstructions to learning caused by economic scarcity by building community resilience and fellowship that facilitates the sharing and distribution of these resources.”
People are also reading…
SHCC sources and donates winter clothing and books to public school districts.
Glen Park Academy has 600 students in kindergarten through fifth grade, and each student received an age-appropriate book. Younger students could choose from “101 Dalmatians” or “Lady and the Tramp,” while older students could select the autobiography of Barack Obama, Star Wars or Harry Potter.
Students came by grade to the school library to select a book and read for a while. Volunteers helped students with their selections.
“Students choosing their own book is a real benefit,” said Mary Gerritsen, a retiree who taught 44 years at Marquette Elementary. “I started reading a book to them, and they’d read it back to me. These kids know how to read and they were delighted to read to me.”
Gleneva Dunham, president of Local 4 Gary Teachers Union, said the union held three book giveaways around Christmas, distributing 3,000 books to people and churches around the city.
“This is special,” Dunham said. “This way every kid can get a book to take home.”
According to research at Maryville University in Missouri, benefits from early childhood literacy can last a lifetime. Reading stimulates brain development, promoting social and emotional skills. Reading also reduces stress and symptoms of depression, and it lowers readers’ blood pressure and pulse rate.
Other sources, including Nationwide Children’s Hospital of Columbus, Ohio, found six lifelong benefits from language and literacy skills. These include building confidence and self-esteem, strengthening brain function, encouraging independent learning, improving attention span, enhancing cognitive ability and enriching communication skills.
School library paraprofessional Adele Mares noted, “The kids are very excited. They get a book they can keep.”
Bookmarks were also popular, Mares added, so much so she was running out.
Andreshak plans to donate leftover books to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/book-giveaway-boosts-early-childhood-literacy/article_a36460ca-f0f1-11ed-a6b0-bf7ea177bafa.html | 2023-05-12T21:45:50 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/book-giveaway-boosts-early-childhood-literacy/article_a36460ca-f0f1-11ed-a6b0-bf7ea177bafa.html |
BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. – The man accused of torturing a Bedford County family’s dog has been found guilty.
Michael Elliot is charged with animal cruelty after the family of the dog said they had to put her down after Elliott allegedly tied her to a tree and beat her.
[Bedford County couple mourning the loss of their dog after neighbor tortured it]
“With multiple ties of ropes around the tree and one rope around her neck. She could not even, she was gasping for breath. Her eye was almost out of the socket. And the other ear had been penetrated by a BB gun, is what the officer told me when he went over there,” said owner Dennis Evans in an earlier interview with 10 News.
They say that Elliott believed the dog killed his cat.
10 News is in court right now. We’ll have a live report from outside the courtroom later in our 90 minutes of news. Watch live here.
. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/05/12/man-accused-of-torturing-bedford-county-familys-dog-found-guilty/ | 2023-05-12T21:46:37 | 1 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/05/12/man-accused-of-torturing-bedford-county-familys-dog-found-guilty/ |
TEXAS, USA — A top Biden administration official said on Friday that there was no “major influx” of migrants rushing to the southern border overnight after the expiration of the emergency public health order used to quickly expel people from the country.
“We continue to encounter high levels of noncitizens at the border. But we did not see a substantial increase overnight or an influx at midnight,” Blas Nuñez-Neto, an assistant secretary for border and immigration policy at the Department of Homeland Security, told reporters Friday.
Since March 2020, when the Trump administration invoked Title 42 for the first time at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, immigration agents have used it about 2.7 million times at the southern border. In fiscal year 2022, which ended in September, agents apprehended immigrants a record-breaking 2.3 million times at the southern border. Apprehensions hit 1.2 million on the southern border during the first six months of the current fiscal year.
Nuñez-Neto said agents still have to process migrants who crossed the border on Thursday to determine the total number of people who were apprehended.
El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser told reporters Friday that there was a spike in the number of migrants crossing from Mexico into the El Paso area in the past week and on Thursday immigration agents apprehended 1,800 migrants in the El Paso sector, which stretches into New Mexico. He said the city had prepared for the unknown — including converting two vacant middle schools into temporary shelters — but there were no major issues.
Leeser said 150 migrants released by immigration agents are staying in a city-run shelter and a hotel. He added the city will try to do as much as possible to help prevent migrants sleeping on El Paso's streets.
"We actually have had a very smooth transition as Title 42 lapsed, and we've gone to Title 8," Leeser said, referring to the immigration law that imposes stiffer penalties on people who cross the border illegally.
Before Title 42 expired, U.S. officials had said they expected up to 13,000 migrants to cross the southern border every day after it ended. According to The Washington Post, more than 27,000 migrants were in U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody at one point this week, triple the official capacity.
With Title 42 gone, Border Patrol agents will go back to pre-pandemic immigration laws that impose stiffer penalties on migrants who enter the U.S. without permission than the emergency health order did.
The Biden administration has added new options to allow migrants to request asylum without going to the southern border, including a government cellphone app known as CBP One. Migrants also have the option of applying for asylum at new processing centers in Guatemala or Colombia, which will give successful applicants the option to legally enter Canada, Spain or the U.S.
Starting Friday, immigration agents will seek to deport migrants who attempt to enter the country without first having set up an appointment using one of those options.
The administration also has imposed stricter penalties on asylum-seekers who try to cross the border illegally: They could be charged with a misdemeanor of illegal entry, or a felony if they’ve tried to enter the U.S. multiple times. They could also be barred from the country for five years.
A rule that went into effect Thursday will deny asylum to migrants who passed through a third country where they could have sought asylum instead.
Migrants have complained that the CBP One app is faulty and repeatedly crashes whenever they try to make an appointment. The Biden administration on Wednesday increased the number of available appointments from 740 to 1,000 daily and expanded the window for seeking appointments from 10 minutes to 23 hours.
“We believe that the changes have been working well. I think it has taken a lot of the time pressure off noncitizens who used to have to scramble to sign up for an appointment … which would fill up very quickly,” Nuñez-Neto said.
This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2023/05/12/texas-border-immigration-title-42-migrants/.
The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/border-didnt-see-major-influx-migrants-when-title-42-ended/287-012ee18c-061e-4dab-b70c-433a366ed884 | 2023-05-12T21:46:52 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/border-didnt-see-major-influx-migrants-when-title-42-ended/287-012ee18c-061e-4dab-b70c-433a366ed884 |
MARIETTA, Ga. — Two Marietta officers are being hailed as heroes for their people-first approach to policing when working to help a woman facing a mental health crisis while she considered jumping off a bridge over traffic.
The call came in early on Thursday, police said, stating that a woman was in mental distress and considering suicide while standing on the Delk Road bridge over Interstate 75. Officer Austin Martin was first on the scene of the crisis with Officer Joseph Sively.
Both officers are rookies and joined the force in January. Martin only started patrolling alone six weeks ago, according to the police department.
Sively explained that the woman connected with his partner, so he focused on calling for first responders as Martin cared for the distraught woman.
“Nothing that we were saying was really getting through to her," Martin said.
Martin said his training helped him because he knew how to keep an open mind and listen to her.
“You can’t approach a situation like that thinking that you know what you’re going to do. Those people are in mental anguish that we’ll never understand," said Martin.
Authorities shut down I-75 in the area and Delk Road to keep the streets clear from traffic as the officers worked to coerce the woman to safety.
The police department said Martin walked up to the woman while she was scaling the fence and calmly introduced himself.
"He stayed calm and spoke with her for almost a full hour, attempting to get her to climb back over the fence to safety," the department said in a news release.
Other agencies made it to the scene while Martin was speaking with the woman, which angered her. This left the inexperienced officer "in the center of a life and death crisis."
"She was straddling the fence," Sivley explained.
The woman started getting tired, shaky and looked like she was about to let go, which is when Martin "laced his fingers onto hers through the chain link fence." Along with the help of other officers, they were able to grab her clothes, "holding on for dear life."
“I just kept telling her that I want to listen and I’m here to talk. Just share what you’ve got with me," Martin said.
The woman eventually passed out and was taken off the bridge by first responders.
A ladder truck was used to lower the woman to safety, and she is now able to seek the help she needs, the department said. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/marietta-officer-saves-woman-jumping-off-bridge-delk/85-89e4baff-c340-498e-b231-c5f545d546da | 2023-05-12T21:46:57 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/marietta-officer-saves-woman-jumping-off-bridge-delk/85-89e4baff-c340-498e-b231-c5f545d546da |
FORT WORTH, Texas — Thousands of bull riding fans are in Cowtown for the sport's biggest competition.
Professional bull rider Dalton Kasel ranks third in the world. He wants to be number one and shared how he prepared for the world finals at Dickies Arena.
"I took a couple of weeks off and just rested my body, and it's good to take a couple of weeks off because it makes you get healthy again," said Kasel.
The Professional Bull Riding (PBR) World Finals draws thousands of fans of all ages.
Kasel said he started riding as a kid with the blessing of his parents. He admits early in his career, his nerves would kick in. Now, he says, that's a thing of the past.
Kasel shared his love for the sport grew, especially after his first competition.
"My first time competing, I had no idea what I was doing and I was nervous and I just kind of was ignorant to it all and had no idea what was going on, and it went well. I stayed on," he said.
Staying on has earned Kasel respect as a competitor among his peers.
He and other bull riders are trying currently to earn big bucks while in Cowtown for the 30th anniversary of the PBR World Finals. Competition payouts total $2.7 million, with an $1 million bonus going to the champion, and the event winner pocketing $300,000.
Win big or not, Kasel promises fans an unforgettable experience.
"It's a mixture between a rock show and almost like a firework contest," Kasel said. "And you get rodeo in that, and you're going to experience something you've never experienced before." | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-texas-dickies-arena-pbr-finals-2023/287-e0f008bd-5fec-4f66-bf66-e143ab05d3ad | 2023-05-12T21:46:58 | 0 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-texas-dickies-arena-pbr-finals-2023/287-e0f008bd-5fec-4f66-bf66-e143ab05d3ad |
ATHENS, Ga. — A University of Georgia student was hospitalized Tuesday after a tree fell on her during a thunderstorm.
A UGA police officer was called to help after debris was spotted in the roadway at E. Campus Road and Field Street. While driving up to the scene, the officer was flagged down by "several frantic individuals," according to an incident report.
They told police that a tree fell on a young woman, who became trapped under it. Officials with the school said it happened after the tree became uprooted by a strong storm, with winds reaching up to 64 miles per hour.
To save the 20-year-old, the officer and several others hoisted the tree up while an off-duty EMT checked to see if she could be moved.
The EMT, who happened to be a fellow student, told the officer to hold her head in his lap while the group continued to support the weight of the tree.
While waiting for EMS to arrive, she came in and out of consciousness, telling the officer she had pain in her head and neck, the incident report said.
Once EMS arrived and was able to place the girl on a spine board, the officer shifted gears and helped hold up the tree.
The report said she was rushed to a nearby hospital and the roadway was later cleared. School officials confirmed in a statement that she was seriously injured.
The statement also said staff were keeping her in their thoughts, wishing her a "speedy recovery."
Currently, it is not known if she is still in the hospital. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/tree-falls-uga-student-storm-bystanders-officer-work-save-her-seriously-injured-athens/85-6896fdf8-9c1b-4e5e-8d2a-b04a1b26cd01 | 2023-05-12T21:47:03 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/tree-falls-uga-student-storm-bystanders-officer-work-save-her-seriously-injured-athens/85-6896fdf8-9c1b-4e5e-8d2a-b04a1b26cd01 |
EVERMAN, Texas — The city of Everman is set to consider a resolution that will honor the life of a missing 6-year-old boy whose story has touched the hearts of so many across the state of Texas and beyond.
It’s been nearly two months since the Everman Police Department began its search for Noel Rodriguez-Alvarez. There have been numerous developments in the case since the initial AMBER Alert came out in March 2023, but law enforcement has yet to find the young boy, who they believe is dead.
To bring some light to the community that has banded together in search of the boy, the city of Everman says it will use funding awarded through Tarrant County to help with the expansion of Pittman Park and the construction of a new inclusive playground to honor the memory of Noel.
The Everman city council will consider a resolution that will name the new inclusive playground -- designed for all ages, abilities and disabilities -- after Noel.
Noel had severe health problems and at times required oxygen to breathe, according to officials.
The new playground will have specialized equipment for children who have physical, social, developmental and sensory challenges.
“We cannot think of a more fitting way to honor the impact that Noel has made on this community, and so many more across our state and country,” Everman Mayor Ray Richardson’s office said in a news release.
On March 20, Everman PD was contacted by Texas Child Protective Investigations about Noel, saying family members hadn’t seen him since November 2022. After a welfare check was requested at the boy’s home, his mother, 37-year-old Cindy Rodriguez-Singh, told them that Noel was in Mexico with his biological father.
But during the investigation, police found that to be untrue, and right before an AMBER Alert was issued on March 25, Noel’s biological mother, his stepfather and six of his siblings boarded a flight to Turkey, then to India.
Police then launched a missing/endangered persons search for Noel.
After several weeks of looking through the home where his family lived, a wooded area, a shed on the property and more areas, there’s has been no sign of Noel. And as time stretched on, Everman Police Department Chief Craig Spencer has said the boy is no longer considered an endangered missing person, as investigators have determined he is likely dead.
Spencer didn’t specifically say how his department came to that conclusion in April 2023, but said the investigation revealed that Noel’s mother, Cindy, was known to be abusive toward the child.
Law enforcement will continue to determine possible locations to search for Noel but hope this park dedication can be a testament to his life and memory.
"There is absolutely no place in our society for child abuse or neglect," Mayor Richardson said in a statement. "Our children our most valuable resource. We must cherish and support them as they truly are the future."
As of May 12, 2023, Spencer told WFAA that investigators are “still very active on the case” in search for Noel.
He’s also requested a “fresh team” of investigators to review the case to make sure nothing has been overlooked from the initial investigation. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/missing-texas-boy-noel-rodriguez-alvarez-honor-with-park-city-of-everman/287-74f389ed-c2b1-4547-9a20-e971014d0ed4 | 2023-05-12T21:47:05 | 0 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/missing-texas-boy-noel-rodriguez-alvarez-honor-with-park-city-of-everman/287-74f389ed-c2b1-4547-9a20-e971014d0ed4 |
A Riceville man is facing up to 30 years in prison after allegedly providing a 15-year-old girl marijuana and then attempting to force sexual contact with her.
According to court records, 29-year-old Andrew Cade Greeley has been charged with enticing a minor under 16, and distributing drugs near a school.
The affidavits state that at Greeley's residence on April 30 he provided the girl marijuana before attempting to initiate sexual conduct. She was apparently able to stop the assault before it went further than a kiss.
An arrest warrant was executed on May 4.
PHOTOS: Class 2A state qualifying track at Osage
051223-spt-osage-track-boys-3,200.JPG
051223-spt-osage-track-boys 400.JPG
051223-spt-osage-track-denver-4x200 girls.JPG
051223-spt-osage-track-denver-4x800
051223-spt-osage-track-fc-carlson.JPG
051223-spt-osage-track-forest city and denver dual 4x800.JPG | https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/riceville-man-charged-with-enticing-a-minor-drugs/article_0afdd113-1ff0-5adf-9fb5-96d4367683a2.html | 2023-05-12T21:47:33 | 0 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/riceville-man-charged-with-enticing-a-minor-drugs/article_0afdd113-1ff0-5adf-9fb5-96d4367683a2.html |
OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Olympia School District sent a message to parents Friday that it learned some students gained unauthorized access to systems that contained some student and staff information.
The district said the students believed to have been involved in the network security incident have been identified and that law enforcement has been notified. The district did not specify how many students were involved.
Technology staff noticed suspicious activity in the district’s systems after the unauthorized access began about two weeks ago. The district said work is still being done to determine the scope of the information accessed and said at least one of the students downloaded the information.
The information included the first and last names and ID numbers of students between 2008-present. Full birthdays were also accessed for students between 2008 and 2020.
Information about students who rode the school bus between the 2012-13 and 2020-21 school years was also accessed. That information included student names, street addresses and names, student information in notes to bus drivers and some bus routes.
The district said it believes it was able to retrieve the information before it was shared. It said there is no evidence that emails, email addresses, or records, such as grades, discipline, education plans, social security numbers, or family financials, were disclosed.
All middle and high school students have been asked to reset their Google login and passwords, out of an abundance of caution.
The district said it is sending notifications to families of students enrolled from 2008 through April 30. It also said it plans to move forward with investments to increase the safety and security of district systems. | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/olympia/olympia-school-district-unauthorized-access-student-staff-info/281-23db2fe8-c7f8-4c17-a6e4-694af86bbc6d | 2023-05-12T21:50:27 | 1 | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/olympia/olympia-school-district-unauthorized-access-student-staff-info/281-23db2fe8-c7f8-4c17-a6e4-694af86bbc6d |
A local developer who wanted to build townhouses on the southwest side will have to wait after the Fort Wayne City Council denied a necessary zoning request.
Fort Wayne City Council members voted Tuesday against the request to rezone 1.56 acres from single family to multi-family at 5500 block of South Bend Drive, which is near Canterbury School in the Country Club Hills neighborhood. The move followed a do-not-pass recommendation the Fort Wayne Plan Commission on April 24.
A developer or property owner must wait at least a year before submitting the same rezoning request, according to planning department staff.
Along with the rezoning, Hummingbird Canterbury LLC submitted plans for a building of 10 market-rate townhomes and a second building with 10 garage units. It was the second set of plans the development company had presented for review.
At the March 13 Fort Wayne Plan Commission meeting, the plans called for 20 townhomes in two buildings with attached garages. Neighbors raised concerns about density, whether it fit in with the existing neighborhood and how much it would add to Canterbury School’s regular traffic.
The plan commission sent that proposal back for revision at the March 20 business meeting, and Hummingbird LLC returned April 17 with the 10-unit plan.
The Plan Commission’s vote was 6-3 against the project then. The three votes in favor were because those members felt the developer made enough changes, said Michelle Wood, senior planner. She said some commission members were also concerned about a planned dry detention pond, which would require extensive work to level the ground from a steep drop.
Councilman Tom Freistroffer, R-at large, is a member of the plan commission and was one of the three voting for the plan. However, he voted against it at the council meeting.
“I did vote for it because I’m a businessman myself,” Freistroffer said.
However, he didn’t expect the neighbors’ negative response to remain strong, he said.
Most of the City Council members agreed with residents’ concerns.
Michelle Chambers, D-at large, said the area is too dense. “This is not a good fit for the neighborhood,” she said.
Freistroffer said the city needs more housing options, but future developments need to remain within the rules designed for them. He added that the city needs to look more closely at how to develop and place townhome additions.
“Townhouses are the future of Fort Wayne,” he said.
Councilman Russ Jehl, R-2nd, was the sole City Council vote of support for the rezoning request. He said the plan showed less density than many multi-family developments and the comprehensive plan calls for more multi-family developments.
Jehl said the community needs to be careful about saying it wants more multi-family developments if it’s going to say no to them.
Councilmen Jason Arp, R-4th, and Tom Didier, R-3rd were absent from the meeting. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/fort-wayne-city-council-denies-rezoning-for-southwest-townhomes/article_2c42d728-f02a-11ed-bca2-9f7987004cab.html | 2023-05-12T21:55:17 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/fort-wayne-city-council-denies-rezoning-for-southwest-townhomes/article_2c42d728-f02a-11ed-bca2-9f7987004cab.html |
DEQ fines Independence, Hatfield Marine Science Center
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality levied 13 fines in March, totaling $372,645.
Among them were the City of Independence, which discharged more pollution than allowed to the Willamette River; Newport’s Hatfield Marine Science Center, which exceeded its permitted chlorine discharge levels; and Ashland homeowners who stored hazardous asbestos in a driveway.
Recipients can appeal their fines by requesting a hearing within 20 calendar days of receiving their penalty letter. DEQ sometimes reduces or eliminates fines after appeals.
Recipients also may be able to resolve part of their fines by completing an environmental improvement project instead of paying a penalty.
Here are the citations:
- Douglas County Forest Products, Winchester, $207,496: For exceeding its permitted emission limit for opacity at its wood products mill 429 times between March 23 and March 30, 2022.
- Gunderson, Portland, $63,000: For operating a railcar and marine barge manufacturing facility without the proper air pollution permit. The company’s permit expired Jan. 2, and it did not apply to renew the permit by the deadline. It has since done so, but the permit has not yet been approved.
- Allen Hambleton, Lakeview, $57,867: For establishing and operating a disposal site without a permit. Hambleton has disposed of several hundred vehicles, more than 500 inoperable appliances, trailers, waste tires and 60 55-gallon drums of suspected fuel/water mixes on his property.
- Forklift Services of Oregon, Portland, $9,182: For failing to collect water quality samples as required by its stormwater discharge permit, and failing to keep records of maintenance activities.
- Kashmir Uppal, dba Butler Market South, Bend, $11,797: For failing to test spill prevention and overfill prevention equipment, failing to test release detection system, failing to conduct monthly and annual inspections and failing to maintain records of monitoring at its underground storage tank.
- City of Independence, $8,377: For discharging more pollutants to the Willamette River than allowed by its wastewater permit, for failing to monitor wastewater for pollutants, and for failing to timely submit a plan for meeting new residual chlorine effluent limits.
- OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center, Newport, $6,800: For discharging more chlorine-produced oxidants than allowed by its wastewater permit, in some cases by as much as 10 times the amount allowed, and for failing to report the exceedances, as required by the permit.
- CPI Salem ONE, Salem, $3,200: For failing to submit an annual report for its electrical power production operation at 5475 Gaffin Road SE, as required by its air quality permit.
- Carson Waller and Justin McCreadie, Ashland, $2,565: For failing to properly dispose of asbestos-containing materials from a residence by storing it in a driveway in loose plastic packaging and disposing of the pile several days later at a location not authorized to accept asbestos.
- Basque Station, Jordan Valley, $1,200: For failing to submit a timely and complete annual report as required by its air quality permit.
- Anant Pacific, Hermiston, $412: For failing to submit a timely and complete annual report as required by its air quality permit.
- Borde, Albany, $412: For failing to submit an annual report as required by its air quality permit.
- Wolf Creek General Store, Glendale, $337: For failing to submit a timely annual report as required by its air quality permit.
Tracy Loew covers the environment at the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips totloew@statesmanjournal.com, 503-399-6779. Follow her on Twitter at@Tracy_Loew | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/05/12/deq-fines-independence-hatfield-marine-science-center-gunderson-osu-douglas-county-forest-products/70164549007/ | 2023-05-12T21:55:23 | 0 | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/05/12/deq-fines-independence-hatfield-marine-science-center-gunderson-osu-douglas-county-forest-products/70164549007/ |
A gathering of law enforcement officers across various agencies, their families and supporters Friday honored the 14 officers who have died in the line of duty in Allen County since 1907.
About 100 people came together at the Law Enforcement/Firefighters Memorial of Allen County for the 20th Annual Police Memorial Ceremony. Representatives from four agencies – the Fort Wayne Police Department, Allen County Sheriff's Department, Indiana State Police and Parkview Health Police & Public Safety – spoke about officers who serve the community today and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Allen County Sheriff Troy Hershberger spoke about what he said is fundamental to law enforcement: justice.
"Not all people read those letters in the same way, but to those of us who have answered the call to become police professionals, those letters represent a commitment that is central to who we are, how we act and what we represent," Hershberger said.
Hershberger said he prays to God every morning, asking him to watch over and guide the officers tasked with upholding that key principal.
Indiana State Police Lt. Corey Culler spoke about the area's most recent fallen officer, Master Trooper James Bailey.
Bailey was deploying stop sticks to slow a vehicle evading police March 3 when he struck and killed on I-69. The 42-year-old driver, Terry D. Sands, faces a murder charge as well as two charges for resisting law enforcement and one for causing death when operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.
Culler said Bailey, like many other officers, would not like to be called a hero for what he did that day.
"His answer to that would be that's just what we do," Culler said.
Friday's event coincides with National Police Week, a week set aside each year to honor to the service of law enforcement officers past and present, especially those who died in the line of duty. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/police-fire/fallen-law-enforcement-officers-honored-friday/article_581e8b64-f0e6-11ed-9bd8-cb4a443a6aa4.html | 2023-05-12T21:55:23 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/police-fire/fallen-law-enforcement-officers-honored-friday/article_581e8b64-f0e6-11ed-9bd8-cb4a443a6aa4.html |
Police: Assault investigation closes Salem Center mall
This story was updated at 2 p.m. Friday
An investigation into an alleged assault has closed Salem Center mall Friday afternoon.
Salem Police announced the closure around 1 p.m. and said there was no danger to the public. Police described the assault as "serious" and said detectives are on scene investigating.
Witnesses said the assault was a stabbing that happened in a mall skybridge. They said the victim was taken by ambulance to a hospital for their injuries.
It is unknown if a suspect has been arrested.
The original closure area at the downtown mall was concentrated on the second floor near the Macy's store entrance and the food court.
Police said it would be closed for an undetermined amount of time. Officers asked shoppers in the mall to exit.
Police cars were seen in front of the mall's south entrance by Macy's and the north entrance.
No further information was immediately available.
Sydney Wyatt contributed to this report.
For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on Twitter @wmwoodworth | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/05/12/police-assault-investigation-closes-part-of-salem-center-mall/70213465007/ | 2023-05-12T21:55:29 | 1 | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/05/12/police-assault-investigation-closes-part-of-salem-center-mall/70213465007/ |
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has made two donations to victims of a Texas mall shooting last weekend, including $15,000 to a young boy who lost his entire family.
Murray - who is from Allen, Texas, where the shooting occurred - also donated $10,000 to a general fund for victims of the shooting and shared the links with his 372,000 followers on Twitter.
"This is sickening. Prayers to the mass shooting victims in Allen, Texas," Murray said in his initial Twitter message on Sunday. "If there is anyway I can help those affected by this tragedy please let me know.
"When is this (expletive) gonna stop?"
Among the victims at the outdoor shopping mall were three members of a Korean American family: a couple and one of their sons, who was 3. Another son was wounded, said Myoung-Joon Kim, head of mission at the Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Dallas.
The parents were identified by the Texas Department of Public Safety as Kyu Song Cho, 37,
and Cindy Cho, 35.
Murray has played four seasons for the Cardinals and is a two-time Pro Bowl selection. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/allen-native-and-cardinals-qb-kyler-murray-donates-to-texas-mall-shooting-victims/3257089/ | 2023-05-12T21:56:39 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/allen-native-and-cardinals-qb-kyler-murray-donates-to-texas-mall-shooting-victims/3257089/ |
The city of Allen will hold a moment of silence on Saturday to remember the victims and those affected by the Allen mall shooting.
The City of Allen City Hall page posted on Facebook that there would be a moment of silence beginning on May 13 at 3:36 p.m.
Saturday marks one week since eight people were killed on May 7, when a gunman opened fire on shoppers at the outdoor mall. Among those killed were three children and five adults. Five of the victims came from two North Texas families. Seven other people were injured in the attack.
A makeshift memorial has been growing outside the Allen Premium Outlets mall with loved ones and supporters visiting the site to grieve since the shooting.
The Dallas-Fort Worth Hospital Council observed a minute of silence on Friday at 12 p.m. to honor the victims of the mass shooting.
With the outpouring of support for the victims of the mass shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets, GoFundMe has launched a centralized hub for all verified fundraisers related to the shooting. The online fundraising platform said it was working around the clock to make sure that all funds donated go directly to survivors or the families of victims. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/city-of-allen-to-hold-moment-of-silence/3256911/ | 2023-05-12T21:56:45 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/city-of-allen-to-hold-moment-of-silence/3256911/ |
The city of Fort Worth is advising residents to be cautious of individuals posing as water utility employees or contractors to gain access to their homes after a customer was robbed.
The water utility department recently received a complaint of an elderly customer robbed by two men claiming to be city contractors.
The men told the customer they hit her main water line, contaminating the water, and it needed to be tested, according to the Fort Worth Water Department.
The incident occurred Wednesday, May 10, in east Fort Worth.
The city says customers should be aware that water employees rarely need access to a resident's home unless the resident initiates the complaint with the department.
Laboratory staff takes water quality samples from an outside faucet.
The city advises residents who are approached by anyone indicating they represent the city should ask to see photo identification. All water field employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms with the city logo, and carry a city-issued photo identification badge.
Local
The latest news from around North Texas.
Residents should immediately report the incident to the Fort Worth Police at 817-392-4222 non-emergency number) and call 817-392-4477 to make Fort Worth Water aware of
the incident. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/fort-worth-residents-warned-of-men-posing-as-city-employees/3257036/ | 2023-05-12T21:56:52 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/fort-worth-residents-warned-of-men-posing-as-city-employees/3257036/ |
Two more defendants have been charged in the drug conspiracy that claimed the lives of three teenagers, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Roberta Alexander Gaitan, 20, and Rafael Soliz, Jr., 22, were charged in a superseding indictment filed in March with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Gaitan was also charged with distribution of a controlled substance to a person under 21 years of age. The charges were unsealed on Tuesday, immediately following the defendants' arrests.
Gaitan and Soliz made their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee Toliver on Friday and were both ordered detained pending trial.
According to the indictment, Gaitan and Soliz allegedly conspired with Jason Xavier Villanueva, Donovan Jude Andrews, Stephen Paul Brinson, Magaly Mejia Cano, and Luis Eduardo Navarrete to traffic counterfeit opioid pills laced with fentanyl to young teens, often through juvenile dealers.
To date, members of the conspiracy are tied to at least 12 juvenile overdoses, three of them fatal, in Carrollton and Flower Mound. The victims span the ages of 13 to 17. The drugs were often advertised through social media.
If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years each in federal prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration's Dallas Field Office and the Carrollton Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of School Resource Officers from the Carrollton - Farmer's Branch Independent School District and the Lewisville Independent School District.
WHAT IS FENTANYL?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. Just two milligrams of fentanyl, which is equal to 10-15 grains of table salt, is considered a lethal dose.
Without laboratory testing, there is no way to know how much fentanyl is concentrated in a pill or powder. If you encounter fentanyl in any form, do not handle it and call 911 immediately.
Fentanyl remains the deadliest drug threat facing this country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 107,622 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2021, with 66% of those deaths related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
Drug poisonings are the leading killer of Americans between the ages of 18 and 45. Fentanyl available in the United States is primarily supplied by two criminal drug networks, the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/two-additional-defendants-charged-in-north-texas-fentanyl-overdose-case/3256933/ | 2023-05-12T21:57:04 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/two-additional-defendants-charged-in-north-texas-fentanyl-overdose-case/3256933/ |
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Live reggae and jazz, wine and food trucks will be back in Johnson City June 10 as a local barber academy sponsors its second consecutive free “Reggae and Wine Festival” at Tennessee Hills Brewstillery.
Crown Cutz Academy is the driving force behind “Reggae, Jazz, Afrobeats & Wine,” which begins at 5 p.m. at 458 W. Walnut St. Crown Cutz owner Craig Charles said has been a part of the festival since it was a small event five years ago.
Charles said people can expect “just an infusion of good music, reggae and wine coming together, mixing with great food and just having a vibe, just enjoying yourself, doing something different.”
Entertainment will include De Lions of Jah, a reggae band from Jacksonville, Fla. that’s been around for more than 15 years, and a jazz duo featuring vocalist Walter Hall and a guitarist. A local DJ will also be on hand.
Last year, around 400-500 people descended on the Brewstillery, which hosted for the first time. Owner Stephen Callahan helped out with the very first reggae fest, a small affair in the Crown Cutz back parking lot in 2018.
“He was real instrumental, real receptive from day one, so I give a big shoutout to Tennessee Hills and Stephen (Tennessee Hills owner Stephen Callahan) for doing that, always supporting whenever we have an event,” Charles said.
De Lions of Jah fuses traditional roots music with contemporary dance hall and hip-hop influences. Reggae influences include Bob Marley and Steel Pulse.
The wine is compliments of a winery out of Georgia whose offerings include CBD-infused wine.
“Last year was their first year, it was real successful,” Charles said. “You can buy a glass of wine, you can buy it by the case.”
A Jamaican-themed food truck from Knoxville will be on hand serving jerk chicken, authentic rice and peas, oxtail stew and other traditional favorites from the Caribbean island, where Charles’s family has roots.
The organizers, who also include UMOJA, will have vendor space and are still seeking vendors. More information about booths is available by calling NaTanya Richele Conley at (423) 943-6604.
Charles said events like Reggae & Wine help broaden Johnson City’s horizons as the region continues to see an influx of new people from all over the country.
“Just trying to infuse something different, trying to infuse like a scene, because people are moving to the area and when people move to the area they expect some of the same things in areas that they, that they lived in.” he said.
“Just showing that we can add a different dynamic and give them a piece of where they’re from I think is a positive and a win for all of us.” | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/crown-cutz-academy-sponsoring-free-reggae-and-wine-festival-june-10-at-tennessee-hills-brewstillery/ | 2023-05-12T21:57:50 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/crown-cutz-academy-sponsoring-free-reggae-and-wine-festival-june-10-at-tennessee-hills-brewstillery/ |
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) – A multivehicle crash on Interstate 26 is impacting drivers heading east and west.
According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the crash occurred at mile marker 15 on I-26 East just before 5 p.m. Friday.
As of 5:15 p.m., the left lane of I-26 East was blocked. TDOT’s SmartWay Traffic Map also shows traffic backed up in the westbound lanes.
On I-26 East, traffic was backed up to the Gray exit. In the westbound lanes, traffic is backed up past the Boones Creek exit.
News Channel 11 has reached out to Johnson City officials for further information on the crash. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/tdot-crash-between-gray-boones-creek-exits-affecting-traffic-both-ways/ | 2023-05-12T21:57:56 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/tdot-crash-between-gray-boones-creek-exits-affecting-traffic-both-ways/ |
DULUTH — When Steven Cooper showed up for a pretrial hearing at the St. Louis County Courthouse Friday afternoon, he was greeted by dozens of supporters.
More than 650 people have signed a petition calling on the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office to drop charges against Cooper, who if convicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm could be sentenced to another five to 15 years in prison.
When asked what the show of support meant to him, Cooper responded: “It means everything, because it’s easy to feel small and alone, especially when you’re up against something so big.”
Cooper’s case has drawn widespread attention, after his July 14, 2022, arrest for turning in a found handgun to his parole officer. Cooper said he discovered a loaded Glock 9 mm pistol when going through the vehicle of his recently deceased brother.
He wrapped the gun in a sweatshirt and placed it on the floor just inside the secured door of his apartment building.
ADVERTISEMENT
“I called the most trusted person in my life at the time,” Cooper said. “It was my parole officer — a law enforcement officer.”
The parole officer arrived at the scene and called local police, who took him into custody.
A criminal complaint said Duluth Police Officer Adam Huot found one round of ammunition chambered in the gun and also seized another nine rounds of unloaded ammunition.
Cooper, now 31, served 13½ years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of attempted premeditated first-degree murder for shooting two employees in their backs during a robbery of the Interstate Spur at 2700 W. Michigan St. on Nov. 6, 2006. Both survived. Cooper had just turned 15 years old a week before the crime.
Felons convicted for a violent crime are prohibited by law from handling firearms.
In an earlier statement St. Louis County Attorney Kim Maki said: “The statute at issue in this case is a strict liability statute, meaning that the possessor’s intent isn’t an element of the crime. Rather, if a prohibited person is in possession of a firearm or ammunition, whether they intend to or not, they have violated the statute.”
But Classie Dudley, president of the Duluth Branch of the NAACP, questioned the county attorney’s decision to pursue charges, saying, “It’s ridiculous. It’s a waste of time and money. Quite frankly, it’s an embarrassment.”
“It’s erasing years of work. Instead of helping to build trust, it builds distrust. And at a time when we’re working hard to get guns off the street, it sends the wrong message. Here’s a person who tried to do the right thing, and he gets charged for it,” Dudley said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Maki warned against a rush to judgment, saying, “The law enforcement investigation in the Steven Cooper case hasn’t yet been completed. We are still waiting for forensic and other testing results from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) crime lab. We reached out to BCA leadership and asked them to expedite the remaining testing in this case. We also just received new information from the Duluth Police Department yesterday, so the case is under active investigation at this time.”
“Despite my conversation with a representative of the Duluth Branch NAACP regarding the need for a complete investigation, they and other supporters of Mr. Cooper continue to press our office to drop charges before we have all the facts,” Maki said.
“Given Mr. Cooper’s history of violent firearm use, and given the urgent need to reduce firearm violence in our country and communities, it is crucial that we verify Mr. Cooper’s narrative. Consider the following hypothetical situations: (1) Mr. Cooper had possession of the firearm for longer than he has admitted, (2) Mr. Cooper used the firearm to threaten another person, and (3) Mr. Cooper discharged the firearm. If any of these were proven true, we suspect many of Mr. Cooper’s supporters would have a different feeling about this case. These hypotheticals illustrate the critical importance of a full investigation,” she said.
Maki went on to say: “Because the investigation is incomplete, dropping the charges would be premature and irresponsible at this time. We remain open to whatever options are warranted when the investigation is complete.”
To allow both sides to prepare, Judge David Johnson has scheduled the case for a Sept. 12 jury trial.
Cooper has posted a $50,000 bond and remains free, now residing in St. Louis Park.
If not for the attention that his case has generated and the support it has drawn, Cooper said he’d probably be back in prison right now.
Henry Banks, a Black community activist, thanked fellow supporters for showing up at Cooper’s hearing Friday.
ADVERTISEMENT
“We need to support him because he did the right thing, and we need to say to our legal community that when we do the right thing, we do not want to be punished for doing the right thing,” Banks said. “So, the fact that you all are here today says a lot about our citizens in Duluth and this region. We need to support this gentlemen and others like him, because we cannot continue to take the racial trauma that our people continue to experience in this country, in this state and in this city.” | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/duluth-naacp-shows-support-for-felon-who-turned-over-found-gun | 2023-05-12T22:02:08 | 1 | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/duluth-naacp-shows-support-for-felon-who-turned-over-found-gun |
DELTONA, Fla. – A Deltona man faces charges after deputies say he opened fire on a man and a teen boy who bought marijuana from him using a fake $100 bill.
Raymon Plummer, 19, was arrested on Thursday, but bonded out of jail Friday.
Deputies said they were called to the area of Providence Boulevard and East Chapel Drive around 3 p.m. Thursday after reports of gunfire.
Investigators said they found an SUV with a flat tire and bullet holes in the passenger side.
Deputies said they learned from witnesses that two males had run away from the vehicle following the shooting, though neither had been shot.
[TRENDING: Become a News 6 Insider]
According to the release, deputies discovered a 17-year-old and a 20-year-old had decided to use counterfeit money to buy marijuana from someone they knew on Instagram, Plummer.
After the sale, deputies said Plummer opened fire as the man and teen drove away.
Plummer faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and firing a weapon into an occupied vehicle.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/drug-dealer-shot-at-man-teen-who-paid-for-pot-with-fake-100-bill-volusia-deputies-say/ | 2023-05-12T22:06:17 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/drug-dealer-shot-at-man-teen-who-paid-for-pot-with-fake-100-bill-volusia-deputies-say/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – The 19-year-old man accused of killing three people and injuring two in a string of shootings last February in the Pine Hills area will face the death penalty when he goes to trial.
Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell announced Friday that her office intends to seek the death penalty against Keith Moses for the murders of Nathacha Augustin, 38; Dylan Lyons, 24; and T’yonna Major, 9.
Worrell said she filed the notice of intention to seek death after a capital case review panel recommended the death penalty in the case.
“When I took office, I established a Capital Case Review Panel whose role is to examine the individual facts and circumstances of every capital-eligible case, along with the aggravating and mitigating factors and provide me with a recommendation,” Worrell wrote in her statement. “The panel’s role is to ensure that there is no rush to judgment, that there is due process and above all, that we get it right.”
[TRENDING: Become a News 6 Insider]
Moses has pleaded not guilty to the three deaths in the case.
Orange County deputies said Moses shot and killed Nathacha Augustin on Feb. 22 on Hialeah Street in the Pine Hills area of Orange County.
A few hours later, deputies said Moses shot T’yonna and her mother, Brandi Major, at their home on Harrington Drive, then returned to Hialeah Street, and shot Lyons and Spectrum News 13 photographer Jesse Walden.
Moses was captured a short time later, deputies said.
Moses faces first-degree murder charges for Lyons’, Augustin’s and T’yonna Majors’ deaths, and attempted first-degree murder charges for allegedly shooting Brandi Major and Walden.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/prosecutor-seeks-death-penalty-against-keith-moses-in-pine-hills-shootings/ | 2023-05-12T22:06:23 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/prosecutor-seeks-death-penalty-against-keith-moses-in-pine-hills-shootings/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – A new citizens task force is sifting through dozens of requests from organizations on how to spend billions in Orange County tourist development tax dollars.
The task force is made up of 32 members from different Orange County cities, districts, companies, and organizations. They now have the job of assisting Mayor Jerry Demings and county commissioners on how to allocate those funds.
Grant requests totaled more than $3.8 billion, the county said.
“We need your help. We need citizen input and to prioritize what is the most important uses of the dollars within this community. Of course, it has to be consistent with Florida law,” Demings said.
[TRENDING: Become a News 6 Insider]
That law says the money needs to be used for projects that help the county’s tourism industry.
Tourist development tax dollars are collected when someone stays in a hotel or vacation rental. It’s a 6% extra tax that’s added and goes to Orange County.
More than 50 entities submitted a request for tourist development tax money to fund various construction projects, community-related programs and events.
According to the County comptroller Phil Diamond, he believes it’s the first time so many entities submit a request.
“Because it’s the first time, we probably have some that are coming to the table for the first time and it’s going to be a process to really see what they’re doing, what they’re asking for. How it helps tourism. How it helps the community, and then go from there,” Diamond told News 6.
Among the applicants is the Orange County Convention Center with a request of $586,738,302 for various improvement projects at the north and south building.
Florida Citrus Sports requested $800 million for a roof on Camping World Stadium. As for the Orlando Ballet, they said the company needs $3 million for the Nutcracker set and costumes. The Orlando Science Center requested $13 million for terrace renovations and onePulse Foundation submitted a request for $10 million for the construction of a museum.
The county does not have $3.8 billion to give.
Last fiscal year, Orange County collected $336.3 million in TDT revenues.
The committee’s next review meeting is set for May 24.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/who-gets-tourist-tax-dollars-orange-county-grapples-with-dozens-of-requests/ | 2023-05-12T22:06:29 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/who-gets-tourist-tax-dollars-orange-county-grapples-with-dozens-of-requests/ |
STANISLAUS COUNTY, Calif. — Fans of The All-American Rejects will be happy to know all they have to do is ‘Swing, Swing’ on down to the Stanislaus County Fair in July to see them!
According to the Stanislaus County Fair, the pop-punk band is performing on Thursday, July 13, at the Coors Light Stage. The show starts at 8:30 p.m.
The band was formed by best friends Tyson Ritter and Nick Wheeler in Oklahoma in 1999. Since then, they’ve sold millions of albums worldwide and seen major chart success with the hits ‘Dirty Little Secret,’ ‘Move Along,’ ‘It Ends Tonight,’ and ‘Gives You Hell’ in the mid 00s.
‘Move Along’ and get your ticket to the fair here. Seeing the show is free with the price of fair admission.
The Stanislaus County Fair runs from July 7-16. Discounted tickets, ride wristbands and the fair season pass are available now.
Other performers include:
- Friday, July 7 – Parmalee
- Saturday, July 8 – Ginuwine
- Sunday, July 9 – El Dasa
- Monday, July 10 – The Plain White T's
- Tuesday, July 11 – Revisiting Creedence
- Wednesday, July 12 – Lit
- Thursday, July 13 – The All-American Rejects
- Friday, July 14 – Blue Oyster Cult
- Saturday, July 15 – Ashley McBryde
- Sunday, July 16 - TBA | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/the-all-american-rejects-stanislaus-county-fair-headliner/103-90a2ac1b-67f9-4586-bcff-303e534e1990 | 2023-05-12T22:07:02 | 0 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/the-all-american-rejects-stanislaus-county-fair-headliner/103-90a2ac1b-67f9-4586-bcff-303e534e1990 |
SAN ANTONIO — UPDATE 5/12 2:00 p.m.
Due to the inclement weather forecast for San Antonio, the pool openings will be delayed until next weekend, May 20.
It's beginning to feel a lot like summer, and that means it's time go swimming!
To help keep folks cool while it heats up, the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department is opening eleven pre-season pools beginning next Saturday, May 20.
The pools will be open every weekend both on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. and the best part about it is that there's no charge! That's right, it's free to get in.
Bathing suits are required and kids under the age of 10 must be with an adult.
The pools regular season will start on June 17.
More details will be shared soon on the Parks and Recreation’s website at saparksandrec.com.
Here are the pools that will be open:
- Concepcion - 600 E. Theo Pkwy.
- Cuellar - 502 S.W. 36th St.
- Dellview - 500 Basswood
- Elmendorf - 235 Shore Dr.
- Fairchild - 1214 E. Crockett St.
- Garza - 5800 Hemphill
- Heritage - 1423 S. Ellison Dr.
- Lady Bird Johnson - 10700 Nacogdoches Road
- Southside Lions - 3100 Hiawatha
- Spring Time - 6571 Spring Time
- Woodlawn - 221 Alexander Ave.
Learn more about KENS 5:
Since going on the air in 1950, KENS 5 has strived to be the best, most trusted news and entertainment source for generations of San Antonians.
KENS 5 has brought numerous firsts to South Texas television, including being the first local station with a helicopter, the first with its own Doppler radar and the first to air a local morning news program.
Over the years, KENS 5 has worked to transform local news. Our cameras have been the lens bringing history into local viewers' homes. We're proud of our legacy as we serve San Antonians today.
Today, KENS 5 continues to set the standard in local broadcasting and is recognized by its peers for excellence and innovation. The KENS 5 News team focuses on stories that really matter to our community.
You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more!
Want to get in touch with someone at KENS 5? You can send a message using our Contacts page or email one of our team members. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/11-area-pools-open-weekends-starting-saturday-swimming-swim-parks-recreation-water-san-antonio-texas/273-aad0c830-d39e-4806-8f26-56cd22c6ef4b | 2023-05-12T22:09:18 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/11-area-pools-open-weekends-starting-saturday-swimming-swim-parks-recreation-water-san-antonio-texas/273-aad0c830-d39e-4806-8f26-56cd22c6ef4b |
ALLEN, Texas — Police radio chatter may explain why an officer was already at the Allen Premium Outlets Saturday, minutes before a gunman attacked shoppers outside.
Investigators credit the officer for saving "countless lives," but they've yet to explain why the officer initially responded to the mall.
Seeking clarity, WFAA reviewed emergency communications audio recorded shortly before the shooting began.
Less than an hour before the attack, a woman called 911 to report another female shopper who'd allegedly threatened her.
"She is afraid to leave her vehicle," a dispatcher said, directing Allen police to the outlet mall.
The 911 caller claimed a "female was following her and recording her and her children and was threatening her," the dispatcher relayed.
An officer responded via radio moments later.
"I’m clearing my first call," he said. "You can give that to me and I’ll advise.”
About 17 minutes after that interaction, police radio listeners can hear the same voice report "shots fired at the outlet mall."
Investigators have not confirmed whether the officer who shot and killed the gunman is the same officer who responded to the disturbance involving the two women. Authorities have only said the officer who killed the shooter was already at the mall, responding to an "unrelated" incident.
Allen police have still not named the responding officer, either. But investigators described the man as a hero during a press conference on Tuesday.
"If he hadn’t have been there, I think we would’ve had a much more severe situation," Department of Public Safety regional director Hank Sibley said. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/allen-mall-shooting-why-officer-at-outlet-before-mass-shooting/287-d988f27e-52ad-4fee-b2d3-45bf6dd46020 | 2023-05-12T22:09:24 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/allen-mall-shooting-why-officer-at-outlet-before-mass-shooting/287-d988f27e-52ad-4fee-b2d3-45bf6dd46020 |
SAN ANTONIO — The deadline to appeal your property value in Bexar County is Monday, May 15.
If mailed, they must be postmarked by midnight May 15, 2023, and should be mailed to Bexar Appraisal District, P.O. Box 830248, San Antonio, TX 78283.
You are encouraged to file your appeal using the ‘Online Services’ link on the agency’s website, www.bcad.org, or directly at www.bcadonline.org. Videos explaining the online process are available on the district’s website.
You do have the option to drop off your protest in person, but they discourage this due to long wait times and heavy traffic. But if you do, please use the drop box that can be found outside of the office during business hours. It is suggested you make yourself a copy before you drop off your forms.
The Bexar Appraisal District will continue to hold the appeals remotely or over the phone.
“What started as a matter of public safety has become a matter of convenience for the property owner. With our self-scheduling system, the property owner can choose a date and time that works with their schedule. Also, by conducting informal hearings remotely, property owners no longer have to take time off of work, deal with downtown street construction, or search for parking.,” said Michael Amezquita, Chief Appraiser. “These changes allowed us to settle over 90% of residential appeals informally last year effectively and efficiently.”
The Bexar Appraisal District appraises over 750,000 properties annually and administers exemptions for property tax purposes within Bexar County.
If you have any questions about deadlines or other matters affecting property tax appraisal, please contact the district at (210) 224-2432 or visit the district’s website at www.bcad.org.
Learn more about KENS 5:
Since going on the air in 1950, KENS 5 has strived to be the best, most trusted news and entertainment source for generations of San Antonians.
KENS 5 has brought numerous firsts to South Texas television, including being the first local station with a helicopter, the first with its own Doppler radar and the first to air a local morning news program.
Over the years, KENS 5 has worked to transform local news. Our cameras have been the lens bringing history into local viewers' homes. We're proud of our legacy as we serve San Antonians today.
Today, KENS 5 continues to set the standard in local broadcasting and is recognized by its peers for excellence and innovation. The KENS 5 News team focuses on stories that really matter to our community.
You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more!
Want to get in touch with someone at KENS 5? You can send a message using our Contacts page or email one of our team members. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/deadline-to-file-appeal-for-bexar-county-property-taxes-is-monday-money-homeowner-san-antonio-texas-school-districts/273-adcfc83d-04c3-4edb-8040-34ad83984490 | 2023-05-12T22:09:25 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/deadline-to-file-appeal-for-bexar-county-property-taxes-is-monday-money-homeowner-san-antonio-texas-school-districts/273-adcfc83d-04c3-4edb-8040-34ad83984490 |
SAN ANTONIO — Immigration and Customs Enforcement is continuing its deportation flights as Title 42 comes to an end.
In the first half of the 2023 fiscal year, the Department of Homeland Security reported 1.2 million expulsions as of Friday.
The repatriation flight from San Antonio to Colombia took off Friday morning. It is the first such flight since Title 42 ended late Thursday night.
Title 42 was in place since March 2020. The expired rules allowed border officials to quickly return asylum-seekers back over the border on grounds of preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Deportations are expected to continue under the rules of Title 8, which also call for expedited removals. The strict new rules crack down on illegal crossing while also creating legal pathways to apply for asylum, such as applying online and seeking a sponsor.
The migrants from Friday's flight come from all sections of the border. ICE conducts similar flights to the Caribbean, Central America and South America. Three buses of Colombian men and women arrived at the tarmac for the deportation flight headed for Bogota.
An ICE official says the migrants are restrained for their safety and the security of ICE officials who search them once they get on board. The restraints are removed once they reach their destination.
The migrants are given food and have medical staff on the flight. ICE officials say the migrants are returned after the end of their due process and spent varying amounts of time in the U.S. depending on their situations. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/migrants-flown-to-their-home-countries-by-ice-as-title-42-expires-san-antonio-columbia-deportation/273-fff7f7e3-6b14-4d36-87c0-a133e0fec796 | 2023-05-12T22:09:27 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/migrants-flown-to-their-home-countries-by-ice-as-title-42-expires-san-antonio-columbia-deportation/273-fff7f7e3-6b14-4d36-87c0-a133e0fec796 |
Lori Vallow stands and listens as the jury exits the Ada County Courthouse in Boise on Friday. The Idaho jury convicted Vallow of murder in the deaths of her two youngest children and a romantic rival, a verdict that marks the end of a three-year investigation that included bizarre claims of zombie children, apocalyptic prophecies and illicit affairs.
Prosecuting attorney Rob Wood gets a hug after the jury's verdict in the Lori Vallow murder trial was read at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise on Friday. Vallow was found guilty on all counts.
Kay Woodcock raises her hands in victory smile as she emerges from the Ada County Courthouse after the verdict in the Lori Vallow trial was announced Friday.
Larry Woodcock speaks to members of the media, gathered in front of the Ada County Courthouse, in response to the verdict in the Lori Vallow trial Friday.
Lori Vallow stands and listens as the jury exits the Ada County Courthouse in Boise on Friday. The Idaho jury convicted Vallow of murder in the deaths of her two youngest children and a romantic rival, a verdict that marks the end of a three-year investigation that included bizarre claims of zombie children, apocalyptic prophecies and illicit affairs.
AP Photo/Kyle Green
Larry Woodcock raises a hand in victory as he emerges from the Ada County Courthouse after the verdict in the Lori Vallow trial was announced Friday.
Kay Woodcock raises her hands in victory smile as she emerges from the Ada County Courthouse after the verdict in the Lori Vallow trial was announced Friday.
Larry Woodcock speaks to members of the media, gathered in front of the Ada County Courthouse, in response to the verdict in the Lori Vallow trial Friday.
BOISE — The prosecution said she was a woman searching for money, power and sex. Her attorneys said she was a mother caught in the clutches of a cult-like leader. On Friday afternoon, the jury decided who it believed when a verdict was reached after nearly seven hours of deliberation.
The jury found Lori Vallow guilty on all six charges she faced, including the murder of her two children and the conspiracy to murder her husband's ex-wife.
Vallow remained dead-faced, with no noticeable reaction as the verdict was read at the Ada County Courthouse. Kay and Larry Woodcock, the grandparents of Vallow's late son, J.J., broke down in tears as the guilty verdicts were read for the charges concerning the death of the boy. Others cried in the courthouse halls and elevators after court was adjourned.
Vallow was charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder and grand theft in connection with the deaths of her children Tylee Ryan, 16, and J.J. Vallow, 7, and of Tammy Daybell, the late wife of her husband, Chad Daybell.
"We are very pleased with the jury’s verdict, and we want to thank them, as well as the alternates, for their service over last six weeks during this trial," prosecuting attorneys Rob Wood and Lindsey Blake said in a statement. "Given the pending case against the co-defendant (Daybell), we are unable to conduct any additional interviews or discuss further details of this matter. We want to assure each of you that we remain committed to pursuing justice for Tylee Ryan, JJ Vallow and Tammy Daybell.
"We also want to express sincere appreciation to the many members of law enforcement and the community who tirelessly worked together to hold Lori Vallow Daybell accountable."
Many people were wiping away tears as they filed out of the courtroom. In the elevators, people talked about how emotional of a day it was and expressed their joy with one another.
As the Woodcocks exited the courthouse, they were met with boisterous cheers. Cars passing by honked their horns in celebration. Larry Woodcock sang “We Will Rock You” by Queen — one of J.J. Vallow’s favorite songs. Then, he switched to Willie Nelson.
“Turn out the lights. The party's over. They say that all. Good things will come. Lori, it came to you today!” Larry Woodcock sang.
Larry Woodcock expressed his gratitude to the jurors, the court system, law enforcement and the “meticulous” efforts of the prosecution.
“I hope that nobody ever has to go through this. I hope that nobody has to see and hear the details of what happened to J.J., to Tylee, to Tammy,” he said through tears. “J.J., PawPaw loves you. I wish you were here. … Tylee, PawPaw loves you. Tammy I never met you. Tammy, you are a part of our lives. Tammy, I am sorry for what happened. My heart hurts.”
Kay Woodcock expressed her gratitude for the law enforcement who worked on the case and the journalists who covered it, saying they had become part of their family. As the investigators who worked on the case exited the courthouse, they too were met with cheers.
Larry Woodcock offered a final question to Lori Vallow, one he said he’d be asking at her sentencing.
“Power, sex and greed. And for what?” he said.
The jury found Lori Vallow guilty on six counts:
GUILTY: Conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and grand theft by deception (Tylee Ryan)
GUILTY: First-degree murder (Tylee Ryan)
GUILTY: Conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and grand theft by deception (J.J. Vallow)
GUILTY: First-degree murder (J.J. Vallow)
GUILTY: Conspiracy to commit first-degree murder (Tammy Daybell)
GUILTY: Grand theft
A sentencing date has not yet been announced. Lori Vallow will not face the death penalty, per a ruling made in March by Judge Steven Boyce. Lori Vallow's attorneys filed a motion seeking the dismissal of the state’s intent to seek the death penalty, and Boyce granted it, citing the “voluminous” amount of recently discovered evidence the defense received and the defense attorneys’ concern about reviewing it all in time for the trial.
The trial lasted six weeks. Jurors and courthouse attendees heard from dozens of witnesses prior to the defense and prosecution resting on Tuesday. Law enforcement officers, FBI agents, forensics experts, family, friends and neighbors all took the stand in the case, as previously reported.
Sydney Kidd covers Kuna, Melba and Meridian for the Idaho Press. She is the supervising editor of the Kuna Melba News and Meridian Press. Send her an email at skidd@idahopress.com and follow her on Twitter @Syd__Kidd.
Sydney Kidd oversees and reports for the Kuna Melba News and Meridian Press weeklies, in addition to her reporting and editing duties for the Idaho Press. She is a graduate of Utah State University and holds a degree in journalism. Previously, Kidd completed internships with Boise Weekly and Deseret News. A true Boise girl, she is happy to be working for a newspaper that serves the area she grew up in. In her free time, Kidd enjoys water and snow sports, discovering new food joints with her husband and occasionally running away to the ocean. | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/power-sex-and-greed-and-for-what-lori-vallow-found-guilty-on-all-charges/article_68b4a10e-f0ee-11ed-b3c7-c3eb42d87383.html | 2023-05-12T22:09:33 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/power-sex-and-greed-and-for-what-lori-vallow-found-guilty-on-all-charges/article_68b4a10e-f0ee-11ed-b3c7-c3eb42d87383.html |
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Drivers in downtown St. Pete could see traffic congestion as hundreds of cement trucks pour concrete Friday night for The Residences at 400 Central.
From 7 p.m. Friday to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 13, drivers and people walking in the area can expect to see the 650 concrete trucks prepared to lay the foundation. It's expected to be the "largest-ever continuous pour of concrete for a non-government project in the city’s history."
More than two million pounds of concrete will be delivered, and the foundation will be reinforced with more than five million pounds of steel.
Areas in the downtown area that could see impacts include roads traveling east and west along Central Avenue and 1st Avenue and north and along south 4th and 5th Street.
Lane closures are not expected, however, some could be blocked or congested as trucks drive to and from the construction site.
The city of St. Pete is working with the developer for The Residences at 400 Central to help alleviate any inconveniences.
“This is an exciting step in the construction of this wonderful project,” John Catsimatidis Sr., founder of Red Apple Real Estate and principal of the company that is sponsoring the development of The Residences at 400 Central, said in a statement. “We are grateful for the expert staff at the City of St. Petersburg who helped to coordinate the foundation pour.
The Residences at 400 Central is anticipated to be the tallest residential condominium on Florida's Gulf Coast when it's finished in early 2025. Altogether, there will be 301 luxury condominiums plus Class A office space, ground-level restaurants, shops and cafes.
Red Apple Estates began taking private appointments for sale inquiries at the beginning of October 2021. Residences begin in the $800,000s. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/concrete-pour-400-central-traffic-construction/67-e3bd001d-fd18-477d-ad42-7af8c165f44f | 2023-05-12T22:11:58 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/concrete-pour-400-central-traffic-construction/67-e3bd001d-fd18-477d-ad42-7af8c165f44f |
DUNEDIN, Fla. — A Dunedin pastor describes what it has been like after a fire burned through his church at Coastal Christian Church.
It happened last week, and members have been trying to clean up the damage.
Pastor Jerry Rittenhouse explained without support from the community, what happened last week would be a challenge for his church.
"A phone call at 3 a.m. and a knock on my door, they are telling me, I have a church on fire," Rittenhouse recalled.
The pastor said he saw his place of worship in flames.
"It affected the whole building but especially in the sanctuary," he explained.
Rittenhouse remembers seeing 17 fire crews respond to the fire. He said fire officials told him the fire started in the dumpster beside the church.
It's unclear what caught fire inside and caused the flames. That is under investigation.
Coastal Christian Church also has a preschool and thrift store, both damaged by the fire. Rittenhouse said his goal is to get the preschool open first.
Services are going to be held in the shopping plaza next door temporarily.
"We’ve got faith. The lord is on our side. Plus people have been incredibly kind to us," he said.
Other churches, members and even strangers have all come together to help.
"We have an adrenaline rush right now," the pastor stated. "Everyone is pulling together."
They are planning a community clean-up once insurance officials give them the green light. It was supposed to be tomorrow but has been postponed.
If you want to help out, keep an eye on their website as they will publish updates on there and how you can help. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/pastor-speaks-out-dunedin-church-catches-fire/67-386f3087-cd41-43d0-bbcf-c38fe3fb0eea | 2023-05-12T22:12:04 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/pastor-speaks-out-dunedin-church-catches-fire/67-386f3087-cd41-43d0-bbcf-c38fe3fb0eea |
WHITE MARSH, Md. — More than 2,000 pieces of artwork of pets are on display at White Marsh Mall for the Maryland SPCA's Kindness for Paws art show.
The art was created by students from 48 schools in the Baltimore County Public School district. The schools were sent photos of pets that have been adopted through the MDSPCA.
Of all the animal models, the most popular one was Earl, a young dog that had to have his eyes removed.
"He was adopted by one of our amazing staff members and is living his best life," said Katie Flory, the director of Community Relations at the MDSPCA. "Many of the kids wanted to draw him so he really is quite the model for the kids and everything he is doing to help other animals and people in our community."
This is the 10th year for the event and Flory said in that time, the art show has raised nearly $40,000 to help the homeless pets that come to the MDSPCA.
"The kids get to learn about taking care of animals, kindness to animals and they also get to participate in helping to raise money to help more homeless animals in our community," said Flory. "And through their schools, they will also get service learning hours for creating these pieces of art so it really is a win-win for everyone."
The artwork is on display on the first-floor of the mall near Macy's. The pieces can also be viewed online and purchased to download. Click here to see the artwork.
Kindness for Paws runs May 13-21. On the 21, all of the artwork will be sold, with the proceeds going directly to the MDSPCA. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/10th-year-for-kindness-for-paws-art-show-to-benefit-the-maryland-spca | 2023-05-12T22:12:16 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/10th-year-for-kindness-for-paws-art-show-to-benefit-the-maryland-spca |
BALTIMORE — As we prepare for Mother’s Day weekend, community organizers are promoting their annual Ceasefire weekend.
It’s a weekend where people ask everyone to refrain from gun fire and promote peace.
Ceasefire, now called the Baltimore Peace Movement, was co-founded by Erricka Bridgeford and it happens four times a year in Baltimore City.
This year partners like Angelique McKoy from House of Ruth teamed up to help host events for cease fire that promote peace.
“To us it means peace. It means that people should be able to live violence free," McKoy said.
“Asking people hey, let’s be peaceful, let’s celebrate life but with an intentional focus,” Bridgeford said.
Bridgeford said it’s only from a past experience filled with chaotic days that she has the passion and energy to promote peace continuously.
“Ever since I was 12-years-old, I’ve been seeing my friends die, my brother was killed, my cousins have been killed, my stepson has been killed,” Bridgeford said.
She said through that pain it allowed her to shift the negative energy and turn it into a positive energy by creating an intentional weekend filled with various events. The weekend that aligns with Mother's Day weekend especially is for people who are also grieving.
“It is to honor parents who have lost their children to gun violence not just moms, but also fathers,” Bridgeford said.
Bridgeford also said this mission is aimed to uplift, encourage self-love, and intentionally promote peace.
“I’m passionate about the healing part. I’m passionate about the people having safe spaces to resolve their conflict. I’m passionate about people learning conflict management skills because conflict is inevitable, but violence is not necessarily inevitable. We don’t have to be violent just because we have conflict,” Bridgeford said. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/organizers-promoting-ceasefire-weekend-said-its-now-baltimore-peace-movement | 2023-05-12T22:12:22 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/organizers-promoting-ceasefire-weekend-said-its-now-baltimore-peace-movement |
Arizona wildfires are growing larger and more frequent. What role does climate change play?
Fire is a fundamental natural process across the Western U.S., one that serves an important ecological purpose. But climate change has significantly altered the wildfire season, experts say, and is leading to larger and more frequent fires.
Multiple studies have concluded that climate change has already led to an increase in wildfire season length, fire frequency and the size of burned areas. The wildfire season is longer in many areas due to factors such as warmer spring seasons, longer summer dry seasons, and drier soils and vegetation.
“If you’re concerned about wildfires then you need to be concerned about climate change and take it seriously,” said Don Falk, a professor in the University of Arizona School of Natural Resources and the Environment. He researches fire history, fire ecology and ecological restoration and resilience in a changing world. “If you’re concerned that we're having giant wildfires then you should be concerned about the things that cause those, and overwhelmingly the biggest driver of that is climate change itself.”
Forest fires in the western U.S. have been growing in size and frequency for several decades. In 2020, wildfires in the U.S. burned more than 10 million acres from July to December and killed at least 47 people. In Arizona, 978,519 acres burned, the largest number since 2011.
“There is no scientific dispute about the factors that are causing wildfires to get bigger,” Falk said. “There is no fundamental scientific disagreement that the increase in concentrations of greenhouse gasses coming from human activities is causing the earth to become warmer.”
In California, an eightfold increase in burned forested area over the last 50 years is tightly linked to increased atmospheric aridity. Across the West, the effects of climate change accounted for 45% of the total burned area from 1984 to 2015, according to research published in Advancing Earth Space Science.
More:Forests often regenerate after wildfires. Why the climate crisis could change that
What are the factors behind wildfire activity?
Experts say climate change is contributing to drier conditions and increasing fuel load, which likely is increasing fire frequency and magnitude. So when a lightning strike or a human activity causes a fire, the blaze has the potential to become much more intense and fast-moving.
The influence of climate change does not minimize non-climatic factors for forest fires. Drivers of forest fires can depend on multiple factors like location and change over time. Humans directly or indirectly start over 95% of the fires that threaten homes, and decades of increased development in fire-prone landscapes are leading to more fire disasters.
In 2020, a majority of burned areas in California, Arizona and the pacific Northwest were from human-related ignitions, according to research conducted on Pacific climate impacts by the University of Victoria.
And while fires have always occurred in the balance of nature, there is evidence that points to more large wildfires occurring than ever before.
“People will say, 'Oh yeah that’s always happened,' and it hasn’t always happened,” Faulk said. “There is nothing about the contemporary fire situation that has any analog in the past and that’s because of the way we have changed earth’s climate.”
How do hotter temperatures lead to more wildfires?
Since 1970, more large fires and more acres have burned as the West dries and heats up.
Spring and summer — both key seasons for wildfire — have warmed and grown longer across the West. Just this year, research from the USA National Phenology Center revealed that Tucson has warmed 6.1 degrees Fahrenheit since 1970. Across the nation, Reno saw the largest spike in temperatures, increasing more than 7 degrees over the last 40 years.
Hotter temperatures evaporate more moisture from soil and vegetation and dry out trees, shrubs and grasses. This turns leaf litter and branches into perfect kindling for fire to tear through.
Snowpacks are also shrinking and melting earlier, leading to a longer period of dry conditions in areas already prone to wildfires. This is also making forests more flammable by reducing water availability for vegetation.
Projected increases in fuel aridity could mean that trends will continue on an upward slope and that fires will become bigger and potentially deadlier.
Are there any solutions?
Experts agree that to effectively minimize the negative human impacts of wildfire, it is essential to address the root issues that are driving climate change. Falk said he is optimistic that people can address the issues causing climate change to prevent more large-scale and devastating fires in the future.
“It’s still within our power to turn that around,” Falk said. “But we have to take it seriously and stop arguing."
He compares the devastating effects of climate change, and the political debates that surround it, as a speeding locomotive with no brakes.
“A train coming down the tracks, (people) want to argue whether that whistle is a quarter of a mile away or 10 miles away," Faulk said "You should turn around and look at it, and then you’ll know exactly where you are.”
Jake Frederico covers environmental issues for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Send tips or questions to jake.frederico@arizonarepublic.com.
Environmental coverage on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Follow The Republic environmental reporting team at environment.azcentral.com and @azcenvironment on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can support environmental journalism in Arizona by subscribing to azcentral today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-wildfires/2023/05/12/climate-change-more-larger-wildfires-arizona/70136780007/ | 2023-05-12T22:12:44 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-wildfires/2023/05/12/climate-change-more-larger-wildfires-arizona/70136780007/ |
Lori Vallow Daybell guilty in Idaho; murder case in Arizona in limbo
After an Idaho jury found Lori Vallow Daybell guilty on Friday of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, yet another murder conspiracy case in Maricopa County remains in limbo.
Vallow Daybell's verdict came back guilty of the first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder of her daughter and adopted son: 16-year-old Tylee Ryan and 7-year-old Joshua Vallow.
She was also found guilty of conspiracy to commit murder in the death of Tamara Douglas Daybell, the ex-wife of her current husband, Chad Daybell.
Locally, Vallow Daybell faces another charge of conspiracy to commit murder in the death of her ex-husband, Charles Vallow, which is pending.
In an email to The Arizona Republic, the Maricopa County Attorney's Office said it has reviewed Vallow Daybell's charges, which stemmed from Charles Vallow's death in Chandler and a shooting of one of Vallow Daybell's relatives, Brandon Boudreaux, in Gilbert.
The County Attorney's Office intends to prosecute Vallow Daybell after she is sentenced in Idaho. County Attorney's Office officials would not say more about the case or their decisions about charging the case since it was still pending.
Chandler police submitted their findings to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office in June 2021.
Later that month, the County Attorney’s Office announced an indictment against Vallow Daybell on one count of conspiracy to commit murder.
Chandler police found Charles Vallow with multiple gunshot wounds in July 2019. Vallow Daybell was accused of working with her brother, Alex Cox, who said he shot Charles Vallow in self-defense. Cox died before the investigation was finished.
According to Chandler police, detectives found one bullet in the floor next to Charles Vallow's body, indicating the possibility of something other than self-defense.
Charles Vallow had filed for divorce in February 2019. In the divorce paperwork, he wrote that Vallow Daybell had a “God-complex” and believed she would bring about the end of days. Later, a friend of Vallow Daybell would say that she believed her kids were zombies, a term she picked up from Chad Daybell to describe anyone controlled by evil.
Verdict in:'Doomsday mom' Lori Vallow Daybell found guilty of killing her kids
In September 2021, Vallow Daybell was declared unfit to stand trial by an Idaho judge.
The court ultimately decided that she was mentally competent for trial in 2022.
The 49-year-old Vallow Daybell will be sentenced in Idaho and faces a possibility of life without parole.
Only then, the focus will shift to Arizona. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/05/12/lori-vallow-daybell-guilty-of-children-murder-arizona-murder-case-pending/70213174007/ | 2023-05-12T22:12:50 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/05/12/lori-vallow-daybell-guilty-of-children-murder-arizona-murder-case-pending/70213174007/ |
GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — A decades-old grief therapy once considered taboo is now garnering new attention, with its clinically-proven effectiveness at "eyeing" solutions to sadness.
EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING
William Shakespeare supposedly said, "The eyes are the window to your soul."
It is a sentiment therapist, Rev. Alyssa Botte, LCMHC uses every day to unearth emotions and "tap" into pain.
Botte is a minister and High Point-based licensed clinical counselor at Greenway Counseling and Wellness.
"I'll say, 'What was the worst part?' You'll say, 'It was this,' and you'll look ahead, and then I'll have you follow my fingers..." Botte explained as she showed WFMY News 2's Meghann Mollerus a demonstration of a groundbreaking therapy called EMDR -- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
"So, when Dr. (Francine) Shapiro. (Ph.D.) created it (EMDR) in the 1980s, a lot of people thought it was 'woo woo' science," Botte laughed.
The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) explained Shapiro developed EMDR by accident when in 1987 she realized certain eye movements, in certain conditions, reduced the intensity of her own troubling memories.
EMPIRICAL RESEARCH AND SUPPORT
EMDR is much more than eye and touch manipulation. It is an eight-step psychotherapy, using a visual or auditory rhythm called bilateral stimulation. Botte said it can help clients suffering from not only acute trauma but also depression and anxiety.
Why does it work?
"We actually don't fully know," Botte admitted.
She explained, "Some people think as that traumatic memory is being brought up, EMDR is distracting your brain, and because your brain can't hold the stimulation and traumatic memories at the same time, it's actually decreasing the sensations around the traumatic memory."
The other common hypothesis is a process similar to what happens during REM sleep.
"It (EMDR) is helping our brain take those memories, take those sensations and feelings and put them in the appropriate spot in our amygdala and hippocampus, which is like memory storage and emotional storage. So, it's helping our brain sort out what's going on in the moment," she said.
The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) cites more than 30 studies in finding 90 percent of patients no longer have PTSD after only three sessions.
Brain scans, which have come a long way since EMDR's founding in 1987, show something sensational.
Botte referenced an EMDR study published in the journal PLOS One. Figures 2 and 3, below, show the changes in brain activation before and during EMDR.
"You can literally see oh, my goodness, when they were thinking of the traumatic memory, it was the limbic system (the part of the brain controlling behavioral and emotional responses) that was activated first."
She explained, in referencing Figure 3, "Now, as they're thinking about it (the traumatic memory), it's their prefrontal cortex (activating)."
After EMDR, the brain's fight-or-flight response appears gone, and the brain is focusing on processing the eye and tapping movements conducted during the EMDR session.
FIRSTHAND FEEDBACK
Hope of healing is why High Point mom Amy Ross, featured in a previous WFMY story during National Heart Month, decided to sign up for EMDR sessions -- two years after losing her infant son, Caleb, to a severe heart defect.
"It (losing a child) was something that changes you instantly. You're never the same from it," she tearfully reflected.
No trauma is the same, either. It often takes the face of fear, as Randolph Co.-based human trafficking specialist Alexis Labonte attests.
"I was put in a situation where I was left alone with someone we didn't think would be dangerous. That person pulled out a knife in my presence," she explained.
Labonte had heard about EMDR before seeking it out for herself.
"After the EMDR, my brain was able to tell my body, 'No, this person's not in this parking lot, they're not waiting for you, you're OK, you can get to the door.'"
EMDR is opening doors for first responders, too, who have a front-row seat to suffering.
"I saw people leaving the field just because of the psychological damage they had received, and there wasn't really anything being done to address it," explained Guilford Co. paramedic and counselor Sari Goldberg.
After seeing a need, Goldberg went back to school for a Masters degree and established a mental health wellness program at Guilford Emergency Services.
"Instead of waiting for an employee to reach out to say they have a problem, we see an incident, look at it and say, 'This could be disturbing, let's check on those people and make sure they're OK,'" she explained.
She said of the 25 to 30 colleagues she has referred to an EMDR specialist, only one person felt the therapy was not effective.
WEIGHING OPTIONS
EMDR is not a fix or first resort for everyone experiencing a mental health trauma.
"The part I see as a downside is just people aren't as familiar with it, so it can just look weird to them," explained psychotherapist Nannette Funderburk, Ph.D., LCMHCS.
Funderburk and her husband, Min. Keith Funderburk, co-owns Greensboro-based S.E.L. Group, a practice for cognitive behavioral therapy. They do not administer EMDR but do not discredit it, either.
"It (EMDR) is newer than CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), and it’s looked at as (an) alternative, but it has been very effective for people who have experienced traumas that they can’t think about without reexperiencing the emotion," Dr. Funderburk explained.
They emphasized no mental health method yields success without a "yes."
"We're just culturally not expressing our feelings. One of the things about therapy, what we try to tell people to do, is give it a try. Go to one session," Min. Funderburk said.
MOVING FORWARD
Dr. Funderburk and Botte agreed therapy is not about forgetting -- or replacing -- pain. It is about moving forward.
"The therapeutic process is about getting back to your prior level of functioning, and so the goal is to have you get out there, go back to work, school, do whatever your day-to-day was. If there is something to be honored, if there is something to be punctuated, that’s part of what the therapeutic process does without keeping the traumatic piece there," Dr. Funderburk explained.
Botte added, "You will never forget the traumatic thing that will happen to you, but you can have reduced symptoms and reduced negative sensations when you think about it or when you're living daily life."
VETERANS
The Dept. of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense are among the national organizations supporting EMDR as an effective mental health therapy, as data shows PTSD is slightly more common among veterans than civilians.
That said, not all VA hospitals offer EMDR therapy. In Fayetteville, NC, mental health professionals at the non-profit Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Cornerstone seek to bridge the gap, offering mental health services for veterans, active-duty military members, and their families.
Clinic director Jennifer Smith, LCSW said the facility now offers EMDR.
"We provide all kinds of evidence-based practice treatment. One of the reasons we utilize EMDR so frequently is its effectiveness. Our latest results from the EMDR institute show an 85% remission in post-traumatic stress symptoms when we use EMDR," she explained.
However, she acknowledged her desire for more mental health services, in general, at veterans' facilities.
"I think there is a need to have offerings of all kinds of therapy. I don’t think EMDR is the one-ticket approach for any particular individual. I think there are different therapies that land differently with whatever their clients are suffering from individually," she said.
FINDING EMDR NEAR YOU
EMDRIA has a resource of certified EMDR practitioners in zip codes across the country. Check out the 'search by location' tool.
For veterans and their families, the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone is accepting EMDR appointments. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/emdr-therapy-for-treating-ptsd/83-c903bb2a-4d43-4247-9d3c-8c67310fdbbe | 2023-05-12T22:14:56 | 0 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/emdr-therapy-for-treating-ptsd/83-c903bb2a-4d43-4247-9d3c-8c67310fdbbe |
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — North Little Rock police are now searching for a missing 13-year-old girl.
According to police, 13-year-old Adilene Ramirez ran away from her home on May 4, and is believed to be in the Levy area of North Little Rock.
Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact them at 501-975-8770 or at 501-680-8439. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/missing-persons-reports/north-little-rock-missing-13-year-old/91-bbd92354-3871-4fa2-8aca-d0aa27653d48 | 2023-05-12T22:15:02 | 0 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/missing-persons-reports/north-little-rock-missing-13-year-old/91-bbd92354-3871-4fa2-8aca-d0aa27653d48 |
Kenny Boateng, of Burlington, and Amanda Bariso, of Pompton Plains, were among 2,800 graduates to receive their diplomas Friday from Stockton University at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.
MATTHEW STRABUK photos, Staff photographer
Kyle Caccamesi, 25, of Galloway Township, graduated with a bachelor's degree in environmental science with a concentration in forestry.
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Emily Thompson, 21, of Manahawkin, celebrated her graduation with her father, Stockton's Vice President of Enrollment Robert Heinrich.
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Kassandra McCaya, of Egg Harbor Township, waves to family sitting in the stands of Boardwalk Hall.
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Bridgeton resident Kanei Green-Scott walks after receiving her bachelor's degree in nursing.
MATTHEW STRABUK, Staff photographer
Christopher J. Paladino, president of the Atlantic City Development Corp., gave the commencement address.
ATLANTIC CITY — Galloway Township brothers Kyle and Dylan Caccamesi discovered their love of nature when they were younger, hiking through forests, traveling to different national parks and exploring the great outdoors as Eagle Scouts.
Four years ago, Kyle Caccamesi, 25, enrolled at Stockton University while serving in the 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard in Egg Harbor Township.
“I knew I wanted to be one of those people that took care of the Earth,” said Kyle Caccamesi about what led him to decide to pursue an environmental science degree with a concentration in forestry.
After Dylan Caccamesi, 28, lost his restaurant job in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he decided he wanted to follow his heart and find a new career that was more stable.
He enrolled at Stockton to pursue bachelor’s degrees in geology and environmental science.
ATLANTIC CITY — When city native Maria Christine Martin turned 50 this year, she didn't thin…
“It’s relieving that I’m done, but I’m going to miss it,” said Dylan Caccamesi.
The Caccamesi brothers were joined by about 2,800 other graduates during the event.
“Looking back at the past few years feel like an entire lifetime,” said Divya Rajput during her student address Friday morning. “And despite that, each of us have made numerous personal accomplishments.”
Students graduating from the schools of arts and humanities, health sciences, and natural sciences and mathematics attended the 10 a.m. ceremony. Students graduating from the schools of business, education, general studies, and social and behavioral sciences had their commencement ceremony at 2 p.m.
“We at Stockton University had the honor to observe your development and transformation into the changed leaders, innovators and visionaries you aspire to be,” Stockton President Harvey Kesselman told both groups of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree students.
It was Kesselman’s last commencement speech as president before his retirement at the end of June.
ATLANTIC CITY — A $3 million city scholarship program was unveiled Wednesday during a news c…
“Your future is full of extraordinary promise and limitless possibilities,” he said.
Emily Thompson, 21, of Manahawkin, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health science and plans on coming back to Stockton for her master’s degree to become a speech language pathologist.
She was intrigued by her brother’s therapy sessions with his speech pathologist and decided she wanted to help others with communication disorders.
“It was fun. I had a great time, and all the undergraduate professors were great. They helped me get to where I am today,” said Thompson as she stood next to her father, Robert Heinrich, Stockton’s vice president of enrollment. “It feels great to accomplish another big milestone.”
Dylan Caccamesi was relieved that school was over, but nervous and anxious for what’s next, although he knows he wants to transition to a full-time career as soon as he can.
Other graduates shared the same sentiments.
“It went by too quick. It was a good time and I’m going to miss being home, but it’s all worth it in the end,” said Kyle Caccamesi, who will go on to Louisiana State University to pursue his master’s degree in the fall.
GALLERY: Stockton University graduation at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd,
racist or sexually-oriented language. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another
person will not be tolerated. Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone
or anything. Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism
that is degrading to another person. Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on
each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness
accounts, the history behind an article.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account.
Kenny Boateng, of Burlington, and Amanda Bariso, of Pompton Plains, were among 2,800 graduates to receive their diplomas Friday from Stockton University at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/education/2-800-grads-ready-to-do-what-they-love-after-stockton-commencement/article_b5cf4d2e-f0ec-11ed-82c7-8be706a72df5.html | 2023-05-12T22:19:32 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/education/2-800-grads-ready-to-do-what-they-love-after-stockton-commencement/article_b5cf4d2e-f0ec-11ed-82c7-8be706a72df5.html |
Two roads in Pleasantville and part of Egg Harbor Township will experience detours starting Monday, Atlantic County officials announced.
On Monday, a detour will be in place on Main Street between the Black Horse Pike and Ansley Boulevard, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., for utility work.
From Monday through Friday, an eastbound detour will be in effect on Old Tilton Road between Hingston Avenue in Egg Harbor Township and Route 9 in Pleasantville, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for paving operations as part of an ongoing county improvement project.
Motorists should follow posted detours at both locations and plan travel time accordingly or seek an alternate route. For more information, go to aclink.org. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/pleasantville-eht-to-experience-detours-next-week/article_216f04e2-f102-11ed-93fb-1f9f5d346554.html | 2023-05-12T22:19:38 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/pleasantville-eht-to-experience-detours-next-week/article_216f04e2-f102-11ed-93fb-1f9f5d346554.html |
ATLANTIC CITY — Eager to savor a sense of nostalgia from her days as a student at New York City's Baruch College in the late 2000s, Candace Kludt was preparing to fly from Seattle to the resort to meet with friends at the Bamboozle Music Festival at Bader Field.
What was supposed to be three days of flashbacks and live music has turned into an "expensive lesson."
With about a week left before her trip, the festival was canceled, leaving her and dozens of concert hopefuls scrambling to get their tickets refunded.
"My next step is to go to my bank," said Kludt, 37, of Seattle. "It's going to be a hassle going through them."
Since the event was called off, Bamboozle's would-be attendees have not gotten a clear answer as to how they can get a refund for the tickets they purchased. Some, like Kludt, say they spent $700 on tickets, only to have a chance of a refund appear slim.
ATLANTIC CITY — With about a week left until its kickoff, the city has stopped the Bamboozle…
About 58 complaints have been filed with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs over accusations of false advertising and refund requests, said Robert Rowan, a spokesperson for the office.
Fans say they paid a premium for presale tickets at prices expected to jump up as more acts agreed to perform.
When fewer top-billed performers signed on than expected, prices fell, leaving some fans feeling ripped off.
Saying it wasn't going to issue the final permitting needed for the event to proceed, city officials shut down Bamboozle, which was scheduled to welcome hundreds of concertgoers to Bader Field last weekend.
Music festivals have become a staple of the city, which began hosting large-scale beach concerts in 2014. Bader Field has also hosted big-name acts like Phish, Metallica and Cardi B.
For Bamboozle to happen, the city needed insurance certificates, a medical plan, an emergency evacuation plan, and mercantile and facility fees for use of Bader Field by an April 27 deadline.
ATLANTIC CITY — Rick Ross, Limp Bizkit, Steve Aoki and Yung Gravy are some of the acts that …
City spokesperson Andrew Kramer said officials were in "constant communication" with the organizers, reminding them those things were needed for final permitting.
"We still weren’t receiving these required documents, so we issued a reasonable one-week deadline for organizers to submit everything, Kramer said in a statement. "During that time, organizers chose not to submit in writing a request for an extension or propose any alternatives, instead letting the deadline pass."
The festival's founder, John D’Esposito, told The Philadelphia Inquirer he anticipated about 15,000 people in attendance, being entertained by acts including Limp Bizkit, Rick Ross and Steve Aoki.
The cancellation has spurred legal action against D'Esposito, specifically through a lawsuit filed in Monmouth County Superior Court by Anthony Martini, who is suing over a $500,000 loan dispute, according to the litigation.
Martini's address was not listed in the lawsuit. He is represented by New York-based Attorney Jesse David Eisenberg, who did not return a phone call seeking comment.
An attorney for D'Esposito was not listed in the New Jersey Civil Case Jacket.
ATLANTIC CITY — A former North Jersey rock festival is coming to Bader Field next year.
So far, the event hasn't cost Kludt her entire allotment for the trip. She's been given flight credits after canceling her plane ride.
Kludt said she used BAM Ticketing, a ticket sales company based in Austria, to buy two three-day passes for the event. Others used the same company, she said.
After securing the tickets, she used Klarna, a payment app with a credit agency model, to help pay for the passes, making incremental payments on the loan for them.
With the event being canceled, she and others, like Chris Sicoli, have been calling BAM Ticketing for refunds. The company has told them to call Bamboozle's organizers, but they've been redirected back to BAM as the "point of purchase."
A similar message was posted on Bamboozle's website, which has gone blank, except for a statement on the cancellation below the festival's logo.
An email to BAM Ticketing for comment was not returned.
ATLANTIC CITY — Thousands of music fans traveled far and wide this weekend to see the popula…
"The festival has been unresponsive," said Sicoli, 31, of Jersey City. "I've done deeper research on other emails for the festival, like actual employee emails. No one is getting back at all."
Sicoli, like Kludt, bought a three-day pass, costing upward of $300. Since the cancellation, he's been consulting social media pages he said were made in anticipation of the event, now morphing into spaces where would-be concertgoers can vent and consult one another about getting refunded.
"It's incredibly frustrating when, you know, one person is saying you have to go back to BAM, BAM saying you have to go back to Bamboozle, and it's impossible to know if I'll get my money back, who I'll get my money back from, what the right course of action is," said Sicoli. "It sucks that, over the course of all this time, it probably won't be worth the time I'm putting in to get the money back, but it's also a matter of principle at this point."
Founded by D’Esposito in 2002, Bamboozle, over a decade, was a centerpiece of the New Jersey music scene, selling out shows in the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford and the Asbury Park Convention Hall.
Highly regarded acts took its stage, including Foo Fighters, Bon Jovi and Fall Out Boy.
The festival went dormant over organizer disputes in 2012, a year in which more than 100,000 fans attended.
While chances of refunds at this point appear bleak, some fans, like Kludt, say they'll continue fighting for their money back. She said her situation might not be as bad as it could be.
"I think I'm in a better position than most people," Kludt said.
The Philadelphia Inquirer contributed to this report.
GALLERY: Mayor Small signs memorandum for Bader Field
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd,
racist or sexually-oriented language. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another
person will not be tolerated. Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone
or anything. Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism
that is degrading to another person. Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on
each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness
accounts, the history behind an article.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account.
Phish fans file through pop-up tents, known as "Shakedown Street" at the band's concerts, during a 2012 show at Bader Field in Atlantic City. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/refund-woes-persist-after-bamboozles-cancellation-in-atlantic-city/article_54555e30-ee7b-11ed-9d2c-373c548fa375.html | 2023-05-12T22:19:45 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/refund-woes-persist-after-bamboozles-cancellation-in-atlantic-city/article_54555e30-ee7b-11ed-9d2c-373c548fa375.html |
Before the May 12, 1879, landmark decision that determined he was entitled to the same constitutional rights as all Americans, Standing Bear was not even recognized as a person by the U.S. government.
On Friday, the 144th anniversary of Judge Elmer S. Dundy's ruling that "an Indian is a person," the Ponca chief was honored as a civil rights icon by the same government that once denied his humanity.
Underneath a bronze sculpture of Chief Standing Bear on Centennial Mall in downtown Lincoln, the U.S. Postal Service unveiled a new Forever stamp bearing the civil rights leader's image at a first-day-of-issue celebration.
Eighteen million Chief Standing Bear Forever stamps featuring a painting by artist Thomas Blackshear II have been printed and will be put into circulation to celebrate the Ponca leader's legacy, said Anton Hajjar, vice chairman of the Postal Service's Board of Governors.
People are also reading…
"Although the United States was founded on the principle that 'all men are created equal,' it took our country far too long to recognize the humanity in many of its people," Hajjar said, "particularly the American Indians who lived in these lands for thousands of years."
Speaking to a crowd of roughly 200 people, including members of the Ponca tribe and descendants of Standing Bear, Hajjar said the chief's journey to becoming an American hero began with love and commitment for his people and his family.
Forced from their homes in northeast Nebraska by the U.S. Army in 1877, Standing Bear and 700 other Ponca journeyed 600 miles to the south to Indian Territory in what is now Oklahoma.
At the end of that long, arduous trek, Bear Shield, Standing Bear's eldest son, died of an illness, but not before the Ponca leader promised he would return his son's body to their ancestral lands in the Niobrara River valley.
Hajjar said it was that love for his son that led Standing Bear to return to Nebraska along with 29 others to honor Bear Shield's wishes, despite the possibility of being arrested by the army for doing so.
"And it was out of love that he took the U.S. government to court, asserting simply that he was a person with rights under U.S. law," he added.
Standing Bear's successful lawsuit, in addition to winning the Ponca their rights and freedom, led to all American Indians to be recognized as citizens in 1924 through the Indian Citizenship Act.
It has also made Standing Bear a civil rights giant, several speakers said on Friday.
“This story of an indigenous rights hero is truly and deservedly an American story,” said Judi M. gaiashkibos, executive director of the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs, “and with this stamp his legacy is further etched into our nation’s consciousness.”
Candace Schmidt, chairwoman of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, called Standing Bear a "pillar" for her tribe and "one of the pivotal civil rights leaders in American history."
"The Ponca Tribe is elated that this stamp will help illustrate his story of justice and triumph, which is also our story," she said. "It also serves as a symbol of the pride and preservice for all our members past, present, and future."
One of Standing Bear's descendants, Steve Laravie Jr., a traveling singer and advocate for American Indian traditions, spoke to the Poncas and other American Indians in attendance about using the celebration of their ancestors to reconnect with their people and culture.
"Open yourselves to what is possible," Laravie said. "This is the vision that we need together as the American Indian people. Pick up a song, pick up a dance, pick up a language, learn and share the voice and memory with each other.
"We are all of value and a piece to it all," he added.
Hajjar, who said he has long admired Standing Bear, and said it was right that he be honored with a stamp.
"Since the 1880s, the Postal Service has used stamps to celebrate the legacy of great Americans and we are proud to do that today with this striking stamp of Chief Standing Bear," he said.
The stamp marks the latest honor for Standing Bear, whose story has gained increased visibility in recent years.
In 2017, the Legislature passed a law to put a statute of the Ponca leader in Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol.
The state of Nebraska followed up by renaming a state office building the Chief Standing Bear Justice Administration Building.
And Lincoln Public Schools' newest high school bearing Standing Bear's name is set to open this fall.
In addition to the honors and titles, gaiashkibos said the story of the civil rights leader can be shared on an individual basis through the new stamp.
"I encourage you all to write a letter and put the Standing Bear stamp on that envelope," she said, "and teach your children to do the same." | https://journalstar.com/news/local/an-american-story-civil-rights-leader-chief-standing-bear-immortalized-on-a-forever-stamp/article_c47afd66-f0fe-11ed-8612-47a98951bdde.html | 2023-05-12T22:25:20 | 1 | https://journalstar.com/news/local/an-american-story-civil-rights-leader-chief-standing-bear-immortalized-on-a-forever-stamp/article_c47afd66-f0fe-11ed-8612-47a98951bdde.html |
A 66-year-old Lincoln man in prison for killing his mother in 2008 with a can crusher in a drug-induced psychotic rage got more time Friday for a prison assault.
Eric Brox was sentenced to 10 months to a year for third-degree assault, a misdemeanor, for assaulting a correctional officer at a Lincoln prison on May 10, 2022.
In March, he pleaded guilty as part of a plea agreement that reduced the charge from a felony.
The sentence is in addition to the 40-years-to-life term he was serving for the second-degree murder of 72-year-old Zoe Brox.
On Oct. 15, 2008, police discovered her body — and signs of a struggle — inside her garage near South 84th and A streets after they got a report that her son had urinated in the lobby at Ameritas. They found him acting strangely, saying his mother had died.
People are also reading…
His public defender said Brox — who is schizophrenic and had a history of stays at the regional center prior to his mom's killing — had used cocaine and become psychotic.
Brox pleaded no contest in the case. | https://journalstar.com/news/local/man-in-prison-for-killing-his-mom-with-a-can-crusher-gets-more-time-for/article_ab9628c0-f0ef-11ed-9fbc-fb52d5e30fe3.html | 2023-05-12T22:25:21 | 0 | https://journalstar.com/news/local/man-in-prison-for-killing-his-mom-with-a-can-crusher-gets-more-time-for/article_ab9628c0-f0ef-11ed-9fbc-fb52d5e30fe3.html |
INDIANAPOLIS — A battle of badges.
That’s what video of a heated confrontation between an off-duty IMPD police officer and a local constable seems to show when it appeared on YouTube this week.
It all centered around an eviction on the Indianapolis' east side, leading to a profanity-laced tirade from the constable, who says she was trying to help a single mom who she claims was being unfairly evicted this week.
Shante Collins, 38, said she was the target of a rental scam that ultimately led to a judge ordering her to be evicted from the home she’s lived in with her four kids since November.
The four-and-a-half minute video shows a man in an IMPD uniform telling a woman, who is also in a uniform and has a badge, to stand back. That woman is Constable Denise Paul Hatch, who yells at the officer, “I am the constable! I am the constable of this township!”
Hatch said she was angry because, she claims, the officer pushed her, causing her to stumble backward on the steps of the home. If that was the case, it’s not a part of the video posted on YouTube.
What follows for several minutes is Hatch, sometimes swearing, telling the officer that Collins, who lives at the house seen in the video on Grant Avenue, has court documents showing a judge has not yet ruled on a request by Collins to halt the eviction.
Collins told 13News she thought she had been renting the Grant Avenue home since November, providing a copy of the lease that shows her signature and that of a woman, identified as the landlord. Collins also sent screen shots of what she says are payments to the landlord via Cash App.
“I found her on Facebook, looking for private landlords. Everything was done online,” Collins explained, saying she was shocked when she came home two weeks ago and found the contents of her home were gone.
“All my stuff was gone, like everything,” she said.
When Collins learned she’d been evicted and her stuff had been hauled away by a moving company, she called the constable's office to ask why. That’s when she says she found out the name of the person listed on the eviction order was the same woman she had been paying her rent to, who Collins says had not been paying rent to the home’s actual owner.
“I’ve never been scammed out of anything, until now,” said Collins.
Collins said she was hoping a judge would understand that’s what she believed happened when she filed a motion with the help of a legal aid this week, asking for more time to find a new place to live.
Instead, a moving company showed up Thursday, along with an off-duty police officer who Collins says threatened to arrest her if she didn’t leave.
“He came to my house and was like, ‘I’m here to serve the eviction' and I was like, ‘Can I go get my phone?’” Collins says she asked the officer.
“He said, ‘If you step across that threshold, I’m going to arrest you,’” Collins added.
“I was like, ‘I just need to get my baby’s Pampers, her diaper bag, my purse,’” she said she told the officer.
Collins called Hatch, who showed up to see what was going on.
“She gave me her paperwork, showed it to me and I was like, ‘Oh, OK, it’s stamped today’ so I showed it. I said, ‘Look at the paperwork. She has a stay. You have to leave,’” Hatch said she told the officer.
That’s not what happened.
What followed were several minutes of the two arguing, with Hatch yelling at the officer, “You’re not going to put this girl out! You have no authority!”
Explaining it a day later, Hatch told 13News, “I’m about my business, but I’m not about the business of putting young mothers out when they paid their rent. It’s wrong, and I won’t do it.”
“Was there a way to take the temperature down?” 13News asked.
“They could have left,” said Hatch. “I’m going to stay hot until you get out of here. This is my citizen. It’s my responsibility."
Shante Collins now feels the weight of responsibility too.
“I have four kids, so everything is on me, so I’m trying,” said Collins, choking up, overwhelmed at the thought of finding a new home for herself and her kids after a judge ruled later that same day she could not stay at the home on Grant Avenue any longer.
IMPD said they’re still investigating what happened between Hatch and one of their officers.
IMPD released this statement:
“IMPD is aware of an incident that occurred on May 9, 2023 involving Center Township Constable Denise Paul Hatch. An IMPD officer was working in an off-duty capacity escorting a moving company to remove property from a home in the 700 block of North Grant Avenue. Shortly after, Constable Hatch arrived and there was a confrontation between her and an IMPD officer. IMPD’s supervisors responded to the scene and special investigation unit detectives are investigating at this time. The incident was captured on officer worn-body camera and IMPD is aware that videos of portions of the incident have been shared on social media. IMPD Chief Randal Taylor has spoken to Center Township Judge Brenda Roper to discuss the incident and steps moving forward.”
Hatch says she’s working with the Center Township Trustee to find Collins and her kids a new place to live. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/impd-investigating-confrontation-between-township-constable-and-off-duty-police-officer-over-eviction-order-tenant-rental/531-c3a1e40f-f0ad-407b-bce3-7574d86a272f | 2023-05-12T22:36:59 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/impd-investigating-confrontation-between-township-constable-and-off-duty-police-officer-over-eviction-order-tenant-rental/531-c3a1e40f-f0ad-407b-bce3-7574d86a272f |
INDIANAPOLIS — Two people are arrested after police say they severely beat a man on the east side Monday evening.
Court documents say the suspects also hit the victim with their car twice.
It happened near East 16th Street and North Shadeland Avenue. Officers arrived to find Daniel Vasquez lying in the road west of the intersection. They say he was unconscious and transported to Eskenazi Hospital with a brain bleed and severe swelling in his head.
A witness told police she was at the red light when her stepson saw Vasquez get hit by a car. She then told him to record the incident on his phone.
She said the victim then banged on the suspects’ window, triggering a man and woman to get out, saying they then allegedly beat him.
According to court documents, the witness told police, “He saw the victim get tackled. The girl kicked the victim in the side of the head. Then, the guy grabbed the victim’s head and banged it on the concrete in the middle of the intersection at 16/Shadeland, maybe 2 or 3 times. Then the guy grabbed the victim’s shirt and shoved him... the victim put his hands up appearing to say no more please.”
Police said the video then shows Vasquez walking westbound. It also shows the suspects in their car turning around, driving through a parking lot and “intentionally” striking the victim again.
The documents say Vasquez was intubated and had a subarachnoid hemorrhage with a bolt put in along with skull fractures and a nasal fracture with displacement.
Detectives used surveillance cameras, license plate readers and the witness video to track down the suspects’ car. On Wednesday, it was found in the 9800 block of Pendleton Pike with Quintel Cook and Kayla Staten inside.
According to police, the passenger side of the hood was dented and there was also a large dent in the A-pillar of the passenger side. The windshield was busted beside the dent and there appeared to be a piece of bone with possible hair attached between the A-pillar and windshield.
Staten told detectives that Cook was driving and honked at a man crossing the street. She said the man then came up to their window and punched Cook in the face. She said he was trying to de-escalate the problem.
Cook declined to talk without a lawyer present.
Cook was arrested on an attempted murder allegation and Staten was arrested on an allegation of battery with serious bodily injury. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office is reviewing the case and would make a determination about possible charges. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/two-accused-of-beating-running-over-man-on-indys-east-side-shadeland-16th-injury/531-8ff9ec0a-c0fd-4eca-9607-c559ccf6deea | 2023-05-12T22:37:05 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/two-accused-of-beating-running-over-man-on-indys-east-side-shadeland-16th-injury/531-8ff9ec0a-c0fd-4eca-9607-c559ccf6deea |
STATEWIDE -- Maine workers who do not have access to retirement savings options will soon gain access through Maine's very own IRA savings program.
Back in 2021 Governor Janet Mills approved legislation which promotes more accessibility to save for retirement through public and private partnerships.
The program was slated to begin in April 2023 however the bill's original sponsor, Senator Eloise Vitelli, has introduced new legislation asking for additional time to roll out the statewide program.
"We wanted to make sure that we had the changes made to ensure both employers and employees that we were not quite ready to enroll people," according to Vitelli.
The Maine Retirement Saving Program will be accessible to employees who do not have access to a Roth IRA or individual retirement account through their employers.
The retirement savings option will allow those who are self employed or independent contractors to participate as well.
Senator Vetelli explains what measures must be taken prior to the start of the pilot program beginning this fall.
"I mean it's a relatively complex program. It's got some simple elements they needed to find somebody to actually run the investments,” said Vitelli. “They've issued four of five RFP's to look for the professional venders that will actually run the savings programs and do some of the marketing."
Existing federal laws require certain employers to offer retirement programs; however this state level option pushes accessibility for all Mainers, while noting that the program would offer the simplicity of a retirement savings account.
"The number of Mainers who do not have retirement savings and rely on the state.. It is quite large,” said Beth Bordowitz, executive director for Maine Retirement Investment Trust.
"By design the savings accounts belong to the individual. As an individual moves and changes jobs the account goes with them,” said Vitelli.
The upcoming program is set to go live January 2024.
To learn more about Maine retirement savings program visit HERE. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/lawmakers-request-to-delay-maines-upcoming-ira-program/article_1140c0cc-f10e-11ed-84e6-ff7372327d9f.html | 2023-05-12T22:40:58 | 0 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/lawmakers-request-to-delay-maines-upcoming-ira-program/article_1140c0cc-f10e-11ed-84e6-ff7372327d9f.html |
BANGOR -- Mother's Day is a time to give thanks and show appreciation to mom's everywhere.
For some, that could mean picking up your mother's favorite assortment of pastel-colored flowers. However, one business owner says that getting those floral arrangements into the hands of Maine moms isn't as simple as it sounds.
"Mother's Day has been crazy. We start prepping Mother's Day two months in advance. Flowers come from all across the globe, we get them from South America, from Israel, from Holland," said Joseph Langlois, owner of Bangor Floral. "This is a pretty big day for us. We really enjoy Mother's Day and putting on the dog for mom -- she deserves it."
For others, showing you care could mean going out for brunch, and some restaurants will be working through the weekend to help make that happen.
"We have some special features dreamed up for moms. As we do every year, we'll be serving our full breakfast menu until 11, and our breakfast buffets in most of our locations," said Jason Clay, director of operations and soon-to-be owner of Governor's Restaurant and Bakery. "We'll have our famous lemon blueberry cake and our salted caramel bread pudding available for moms, as well."
One mom shared her thoughts about what the day means to her.
"It does feel nice, it's really good to know that we are appreciated for what we have done -- what I've done -- for 21 years," said mother Crystal Austin.
One mother says it's important to remember what the day is all about.
"It's the thought that counts. You know, it's not the flowers, it's not the gifts. It's family -- three generations -- being able to be together," said mother Sheila Stratton.
Business owners say they expect a busy Mother's Day this year, and those looking to grab last-minute gifts or reservations should be patient. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/maine-businesses-prepare-for-mothers-day/article_859f859c-f105-11ed-9fc1-7b9e92fc0073.html | 2023-05-12T22:41:04 | 1 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/maine-businesses-prepare-for-mothers-day/article_859f859c-f105-11ed-9fc1-7b9e92fc0073.html |
BANGOR -- Local high school students can start earning an associate degree thanks to partnerships between multiple higher education systems.
United Technologies Center is one of Maine's three career and technical education schools helping students get a jump-start on planning for life after high school.
UTC offers multiple programs ranging from business leadership to construction technologies in an effort to engage a large number of students with diverse goals and skill sets.
The center primarily offers courses through eastern Maine community college.
High school students also have the option to complete different fast-track degree programs in partnership with the University of Maine or Husson University.
"They like to be in this environment. It's different from what they're used to. We don't just necessarily teach student to only go to college. We also try to support them in different areas that might be best for them, whether that's going right into the workforce or going into the military, or whatever that looks like for them,” said Rebecca Willette, an instructor for United Technologies Center.
Other career and technical education schools offering similar programs in Maine include Mid-Coast School of Technology and Coastal Washington County Institute of Technology.
Parents of students interested in learning more about the programs can log onto utc-4-me-dot-org. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/more-high-school-students-are-earning-college-credit/article_17e72334-f10f-11ed-a22e-6b7febce461b.html | 2023-05-12T22:41:10 | 0 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/more-high-school-students-are-earning-college-credit/article_17e72334-f10f-11ed-a22e-6b7febce461b.html |
ORONO -- More than 600 thinking caps were put to the test in this year's Windstorm Challenge to see who would be awarded the best designed offshore wind platform.
"We asked students from all over the state of Maine middle and high school to design their own platforms for floating win turbines, and they bring them up here to Orono and they test them in our basin," said Taylor Ward, event manager of the Windstorm Challenge.
Participants were tasked with constructing a floating platform out of recyclable materials that could hold a turbine and float in the water upright for a short period of time without falling over.
While this is a challenge, Ward says it's also inspiring the next generation to make a difference in a sustainable way.
"Floating offshore wind is a hot topic in Maine right now. It's an industry that we absolutely need to keep building and there is not any workforce yet, and this who this is. These are our next generation professionals in the offshore wind space," said Ward.
Students we spoke to say they're excited to help engineer solutions to the challenges posed by climate change.
"It's the first step into actual engineering. This is something actual engineers are doing and we are part of it. It's really interesting to be part of that and get our first experiences," said Milo Sanokklis, a participant of the event.
"It's something to put out there. It's going to be new and it's going to help the environment in a lot of ways depending on the resources you're going to be using," said Daniela Myers, another participant of the event.
The winning middle school teams will be awarded with 3D printed trophy's based on their performances.
However, there can only be one winning high school team. Not only will they receive a trophy but will also be guaranteed a four-year internship with the University of Maine's Advanced Structures and Composites Center. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/umaine-hosts-annual-windstorm-challenge/article_bef3555a-f108-11ed-9db8-6f0f92b007c8.html | 2023-05-12T22:41:16 | 1 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/umaine-hosts-annual-windstorm-challenge/article_bef3555a-f108-11ed-9db8-6f0f92b007c8.html |
Police respond to threat made against Islamic Center of Daytona Beach Friday afternoon
The Islamic Center of Daytona Beach was targeted Friday, one of "multiple threats" made against mosques across the state, according to the Daytona Beach Police Department.
It was the second threat made against the Islamic Center in two days.
Daytona Beach police responded to a call Friday at 1:45 p.m. after receiving a report of a bomb threat that was "determined to be false," according to public information officer Carrie McCallister.
"The mosque was cleared and there are no current concerns for the safety of its worshipers or the general public in the area," she said in an emailed statement. "However, law enforcement will maintain a presence."
A different account from worshiper
However, Roy McGee, a Daytona Beach Muslim who's been a member of the Keech Street mosque since around 1990, gave a different account. He said he and other men were in a prayer service and listening to a lecture between 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Friday when they were alerted that a threat had been made.
No Permit:Neo-Nazi group denied Ormond Beach special event permit to protest Sheriff Chitwood
Speaking Out Against Hate:Sheriff calls out 'punk thugs' who spread antisemitic propaganda in Volusia County
Sheriff Cites Political Motive:Racist group targets Sheriff Mike Chitwood by dropping flyers in Port Orange area
McGee, who's in charge of maintenance at the mosque, said he was told that a man called the Midtown neighborhood house of worship and said he was in the parking lot and was going to shoot the police if they came to the small facility.
At least four police officers arrived at the mosque, and they didn't find any suspects on the property, he said. Officers suspected it was a hoax call and didn't evacuate the building, McGee said.
"There was nothing to it," he said.
McGee said he was told the caller didn't say anything Friday about a bomb. He said the same caller is believed to have made threats to other mosques as well. McCallister, the police spokeswoman, gave a similar account on that point.
"This is one of multiple threats made in reference to mosques in Florida," she wrote.
She did not immediately respond to an email from the News-Journal regarding the apparent discrepancy.
Another threat mentions sheriff
On Thursday night someone called in a bomb threat using "abusive language" and referencing Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, Lt. Antwan Lewis of Daytona Beach Fire Rescue said Friday.
"The Islamic Center isn't overly large, so it didn't take a lot of time to do a search," Lewis said.
Chitwood, who has been outspoken in recent months against hate groups, received a Critical Citizen Award from the Palm Beach Synagogue Thursday night. He didn't have much to say about the threats Friday.
"Why give them any attention? That's what they want," Chitwood said in a text.
The sheriff himself has been a target. Three men have been arrested on charges of threatening to kill Chitwood.
He led a press conference with faith leaders on Feb. 27 to speak out against the Goyim Defense League, a hate group that had been spreading propaganda all over Volusia County.
"I stand with my Jewish friends and I am honored to be on your hit list," Chitwood said at the time. "It's an honor to be sought after by a bunch of punk thugs like you."
This story has been updated.
Eileen Zaffiro-Kean contributed to this report. | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2023/05/12/bomb-threat-targets-islamic-center-of-daytona-beach-no-device-found/70212836007/ | 2023-05-12T22:50:24 | 0 | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2023/05/12/bomb-threat-targets-islamic-center-of-daytona-beach-no-device-found/70212836007/ |
It’s Mother’s Day weekend, meaning it’s a great time to show appreciation to the mother figures in your life, whether that’s through a locally made gift or brunch at a trendy spot.
Locals can stop by several markets to browse or purchase a gifts, including the Denton Art & Performance Collab’s Coffee with Mom Market and M&B Tiny Shop’s Viva la Cultura Market.
Although it is Mother’s Day weekend, there are still plenty of other events locals can attend. This includes a stop on the Denton County Master Gardener Association garden tour.
Friday
Mother’s Day Paper Flower Workshop
Where: The DIME Store, 118 E. McKinney St.
When: Friday, 6 to 8 p.m.
Price: $45 (registration required)
Go the extra mile and create a bouquet of crepe paper poppy flowers to give to your mom for Mother’s Day. The workshop instructors will help attendees create the bouquet of crepe paper poppy flowers. Those who attend will get a 10% store coupon.
Food N’ Fun Friday
Where: North Lakes Recreation Center & Park, 2001 W. Windsor Drive
When: Friday, 5 to 8 p.m.
Start the weekend with a stop by the North Lakes Driving Range on Friday evening to hit all-you-can-hit golf balls. There will also be local food trucks and vendors.
Saturday
Where: Avoca Coffee, 500 Fort Worth Drive, Suite 150
When: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stop by the Mother’s Day-themed market to pick up a gift for the mother figure in your life (or for yourself!) hosted by the Denton Art & Performance Collab. The market will include local vendors and a big Mother’s Day gift basket raffle. Proceeds from the raffle will be donated to Denton County Friends of the Family. There will also be live music from The Bret Crow Show, Sable Breeze and Bela Jet.
Where: Salted Sanctuary Soap, 525 N. Elm St.
When: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Stop by Salted Sanctuary Soap in downtown Denton to pick out handmade soap products and home goods.
Where: 317 W. Mulberry St.
When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Denton’s weekly community market will have its usual offering this weekend, but various vendors will have special Mother’s Day-related items for sale.
Where: M&B Tiny Shop, 208 E. McKinney St.
When: Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Another market to stop by before Mother’s Day, grab items from Latino and local vendors who will be selling accessories, jewelry, paintings, clothes and more at this boutique off the Square.
DCMGA Garden Tour
Where: Four different addresses on Tour Day
When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tickets: Advanced tickets are $15 and $20 on tour day.
The Denton County Master Gardener Association annual tour educates and engages county residents in the implementation of research-based horticultural and environmental practices that create sustainable gardens, landscapes and communities. The tour takes place throughout four different locations in the county.
Indie Author Book Fair
Where: Patchouli Joe’s Books & Indulgences, 221 W. Hickory St.
When: Saturday, noon to 3 p.m.
Various indie authors will be in the cozy downtown Denton bookstore signing and selling copies of their books.
Where: The Bearded Monk, 122 E. McKinney St.
When: Saturday, starts at 6 p.m.
Taste some funky, sour brews during the Bearded Monk’s annual event. DJ Spinn Mo will be dropping the beats.
Sunday
Mother’s Day Brunch at the Chestnut Tree
Where: The Chestnut Tree, 107 W. Hickory St.
When: Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Price: $12 to $70
Treat your mom to brunch during the restaurant’s annual Mother’s Day brunch. The restaurant will offer a three-course meal. Make sure to reserve your spot before going.
Moms play for free
Where: Free Play Arcade, 101 W. Hickory St.
When: Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Free Play Arcade will offer free admission for mothers and a $3 mimosa special. Have a blast from the past and play hundreds of retro arcade games in this expanded spot on the Square.
Mother’s Day Mimosas
Where: Denton County Brewing Co., 200 E. McKinney St.
When: Sunday, at 3 p.m.
Stop by the Denton County Brewing Co. for $3 dollar mimosas to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday afternoon.
Wake Up with the DR-C: Get today's headlines in your inbox
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Error! There was an error processing your request. | https://dentonrc.com/news/local/to-do-this-weekend-mothers-day-specials-gardening-tour-and-food-trucks/article_c7c5b083-6c6d-54ab-bc38-c0277571c042.html | 2023-05-12T22:52:53 | 1 | https://dentonrc.com/news/local/to-do-this-weekend-mothers-day-specials-gardening-tour-and-food-trucks/article_c7c5b083-6c6d-54ab-bc38-c0277571c042.html |
Horatio is WTVA’s Pet of the Week for May 12, brought to you by Cloverhaven Animal Hospital in Tupelo.
Do you want to adopt him?
Call the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society at 662-205-4221 or visit TupeloLeeHumane.org.
Horatio is WTVA’s Pet of the Week for May 12, brought to you by Cloverhaven Animal Hospital in Tupelo.
Do you want to adopt him?
Call the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society at 662-205-4221 or visit TupeloLeeHumane.org. | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/pet-of-the-week---horatio/article_b9599d6c-f111-11ed-8d08-7bb5d52bf280.html | 2023-05-12T22:54:04 | 1 | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/pet-of-the-week---horatio/article_b9599d6c-f111-11ed-8d08-7bb5d52bf280.html |
CEDAR FALLS – This year's Ride of Silence will be at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17 at Overman Park in Cedar Falls.
Registration starts at 6 p.m., a short memorial ceremony will be at 6:15 p.m. and the ride will take off by 6:25 p.m.
The Ride of Silence is a worldwide event with cyclists taking the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways.
The ride is free and the pace will not be faster than 11 or 12 mph. All cyclists will be required to wear helmets and red rear and white front blinking lights are recommended for safety.
The group will ride in total silence in remembrance to show respect for and honor the lives of those who have been killed or injured.
Local law enforcement line of duty deaths
Black Hawk County area law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty include:
Jurors also found Michael Thomas Lang guilty of attempted murder for shooting at armored vehicle driver, assault on officer for earlier struggle with police.
Christopher Fitzgerald was officer with Temple University police
DES MOINES — On Friday, two Iowa State Patrol troopers who died in the line of duty in 2021 — Sgt. Jim K. Smith and Trooper Ted Benda — will h…
CEDAR FALLS | A Cedar Falls police officer who lost his life in the line of duty in 1945 received special honors in Des Moines today.
WATERLOO —- The Cedar Valley said farewell to one of its protectors Friday.
CEDAR FALLS | "The first time I met Adam, I realized he was the most laid-back, relaxed, never swore, only drank once a year at church." | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/cyclist-ride-of-silence-to-be-held/article_d4e6b599-3a9c-52df-8724-637ea828298c.html | 2023-05-12T22:55:40 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/cyclist-ride-of-silence-to-be-held/article_d4e6b599-3a9c-52df-8724-637ea828298c.html |
Patti H. Parker, president of United Way of Northeast Mississippi, presents the J.G. Berry Volunteer Service Award to Hank Franklin, son of the late Hassell Franklin. Photo courtesy of Robin McKinney.
Patti H. Parker, president of United Way of Northeast Mississippi, presents the J.G. Berry Volunteer Service Award to Hank Franklin, son of the late Hassell Franklin. Photo courtesy of Robin McKinney.
TUPELO — The United Way of Northeast Mississippi has posthumously recognized the philanthropic efforts of one of area's preeminent businessmen.
On Thursday, the local United Way presented the late Hassell Franklin with its most prestigious award, the Julius G. Berry Volunteer Service Award. Franklin founded the Franklin Corporation in Houston in 1970 and served as chairman for many years. He died on Jan. 22, 2023. He was 87 years old.
The Franklin Corporation is a long-time supporter of United Way of Northeast Mississippi and has the largest employee campaign in Chickasaw County. In 2022, their employees gave a combined $62,952.22, and Franklin gave a corporate gift of $25,000, bringing their total to $86,952.22.
Hank Franklin, Hassell Franklin's son, accepted the award on his father's behalf. He said his father believed in United Way's work and would have been honored to receive the award.
"This is a beautiful tribute to my father," Hank Franklin said. "I am glad that we can continue the relationship he built with United Way."
Franklin was instrumental in helping United Way-funded programs in Houston and Chickasaw County and throughout Northeast Mississippi during his life.
The J.G. Berry Award is given to a community volunteer that has dedicated his or her life to public service in the same vein as Berry, one of the founders of the United Way of Northeast Mississippi.
Some of the award's previous winners include Lisa Reed, Jeff King and Cindy Sparks, who also received the award posthumously.
Newsletters
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Error! There was an error processing your request. | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/united-way-honors-the-late-hassell-franklin-with-j-g-berry-volunteer-service-award/article_33e1aae3-fec5-511e-88f1-9cc5ced99570.html | 2023-05-12T22:56:45 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/united-way-honors-the-late-hassell-franklin-with-j-g-berry-volunteer-service-award/article_33e1aae3-fec5-511e-88f1-9cc5ced99570.html |
Two days before Mother's Day in 2018, 62-year-old Ana del Valle was found dead inside the Brooklyn apartment she shared with her daughter. A few days later, her neighbor next door was discovered shot to death inside his apartment.
Detectives with the NYPD know the murders are connected, but in the five years since the killings they have not been able to crack the case.
The reward for information leading to an arrest in the unsolved Bushwick case has been increased to $70,000.
"Both victims -- Ana and Basil -- were completely innocent people. They had nothing to do with anything that goes on in the area," said Detective Steve Minucci.
Get Tri-state area news and weather forecasts to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York newsletters.
Family members discovered Del Valle dead on May 11 of that year. She was 62. Gray, who lived in the apartment next door, was found two days later by his family. He was 54.
Both had been shot and killed. Ballistic evidence indicated the same weapon was used.
Detectives at the time said no 911 calls had been received around the time the two were believed to have been killed or until they were discovered by their own relatives.
Local
Five years after their murders, detectives are still troubled by the unsolved case. They hope the reward increase entices someone to come forward with a tip to finally bring answers to their families.
"Imagine it was your mom, your sister, your brother, your father. Wouldn't you want somebody to come forward? Because I would," Lt. Michael Spezio said.
Anyone with information about the murders, or the suspected shooter or shooters, is asked to call the FBI New York at 212-384-1000. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/baffling-mothers-day-killings-in-brooklyn-go-unsolved-for-5-years/4329694/ | 2023-05-12T23:03:32 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/baffling-mothers-day-killings-in-brooklyn-go-unsolved-for-5-years/4329694/ |
BLOOMINGTON — Law enforcement announced Friday afternoon that Michael Bakana had been taken into custody, five days after he failed to appear for his murder trial in McLean County.
At approximately 4 p.m., members of the U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force took him into custody in Lexington, Kentucky, according to a statement from the Bloomington Police Department.
Bakana, 44, who was convicted earlier Friday afternoon of first-degree murder, attempted murder and aggravated battery, was detained without incident, police said.
“Over the past five days, Bloomington Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division, working with the United States Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force (USMTF), were able to develop information related to the travels and location of Bakana,” according to police.
A no-bond warrant for his arrest was issued Monday after he failed to appear for his trial and authorities said he cut off his GPS monitoring bracelet. Bakana had been out on bond before his trial began, having paid $200,035 to be released from custody.
He is expected to be sentenced June 22 on the charges of first-degree murder in the death of 22-year-old Mariah Petracca, attempted murder in the shooting of Petracca’s friend, Bibianna Cornejo, who survived with permanent nerve damage and multiple bullet wounds; as well as aggravated battery with a firearm.
Photos: Emergency crews train on air disaster readiness at Bloomington airport
061222-blm-loc-1training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-2training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-3training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-4training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-5training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-6training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-7training.JPG
061222-blm-loc-8training.jpg
Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/bakana-convicted-of-murder-friday-in-mclean-county-captured-in-kentucky/article_508a24a8-f113-11ed-8d95-17419291c246.html | 2023-05-12T23:04:29 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/bakana-convicted-of-murder-friday-in-mclean-county-captured-in-kentucky/article_508a24a8-f113-11ed-8d95-17419291c246.html |
BLOOMINGTON — Bloomington police are investigating a stabbing reported on the south side of the city Friday afternoon.
Shortly after 4 p.m., officers were called to the 300 block of DeVille Drive for a reported stabbing, Lt. Rick Beoletto said.
One victim was located with injuries, though the extent of the injuries was not immediately available. One suspect was detained at the scene. Beoletto said he believed both involved were male, but he could not confirm the details.
Emergency medical personnel responded as well, and the victim was removed from the scene.
The incident remains under investigation. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/bloomington-police-investigate-stabbing-on-deville-drive/article_d0c5add2-f10d-11ed-aedc-8325262a38a3.html | 2023-05-12T23:04:35 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/bloomington-police-investigate-stabbing-on-deville-drive/article_d0c5add2-f10d-11ed-aedc-8325262a38a3.html |
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A challenger to the state’s pending August election wants it canceled altogether, filing a lawsuit Friday afternoon.
The legal challenge’s complaint document names Ohioians Jeniece Brock, Brent Edwards and Christopher Tavenor alongside the One Person One Vote campaign, with all four challenging the legitimacy of the August election approved by Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. The Ohio House on Wednesday voted along party lines to hold the race for a single issue: whether or not to make it harder to amend the state constitution. It had already made its way through the Senate, meaning it then went to LaRose’s desk for signature.
If passed, the measure would require Ohioans to reach a 60% majority, rather than 50% plus one vote, to enact a constitutional amendment. It would also require signatures from all 88 counties in Ohio, rather than 44 as needed currently, to place the initiative on ballots.
The lawsuit’s plaintiffs cite state lawmakers as prohibiting statewide special elections five months prior, as well as LaRose’s own comments that August elections have “embarrassingly low” voter turnout. Their complaint asks for the Supreme Court of Ohio to force LaRose to take the issue off the August ballot and stop county election officials from participating in the race altogether.
“The General Assembly revised Ohio law to allow elections only during November, March, or May and they’ve done nothing since that time to change the law,” said Dennis Willard, spokesperson for One Person One Vote.
After signing the resolution to hold the August election, LaRose defended his decision by saying voters should have the right to choose.
“A supermajority of our legislature has decided to ask Ohio voters an important question about protecting our state constitution — like most other states do,” LaRose wrote. “That’s how democracy works.”
Edwards’ online profiles list him as an Ohio Democratic campaign professional. Brock is listed as the Advocacy Director at the Ohio Organizing Collaborative.
Read the lawsuit’s full complaint document by clicking here. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/ohios-special-august-election-now-has-legal-challenge/ | 2023-05-12T23:08:41 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/ohios-special-august-election-now-has-legal-challenge/ |
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s fifth annual Parkside Day, a day of giving and activities in support of the university,turned out to be a record-setter.
This year, 1,946 individuals across the nation participated in the day through donating, volunteering, and attending events. Parkside Day generated $220,046 in donations to scholarships, athletics, and programs of the university from 1,139 donors.
The number of donors and dollars raised – 1,139 individuals and businesses making financial contributions – marked the highest dollar amount and number of donors to date for the annual Parkside Day.
“From our alumni to our corporate partners, faculty and staff members, and hundreds of supporters throughout the region, our community showed incredible support for UW-Parkside on Parkside Day,” said Chancellor Debbie Ford. “The funds raised for student success are important, and the highlight was seeing such strong engagement and pride in our university.”
People are also reading…
A highlighted giving area was the Future Focus Fund, the UW-Parkside Foundation’s need-based student aid fund which helps students facing financial hardship stay on track to earning their degrees.Parkside Day recognized this year’s Future Focus corporate supporters: HARIBO of America, Snap-on Incorporated, and CNH Industrial.
“HARIBO’s generous presenting sponsorship encouraged donors to participate in giving, with additional support to the Future Focus Fund through special challenges for recent alumni giving and “power hour” fundraising challenges, as well as challenges in support of Parkside Athletics teams,” the university stated.
The impact of Parkside Day extended beyond the dollars raised through the Rangers Give Back initiative powered by Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin and Metropolitan Chicago. The Rangers Give Back initiative provides opportunities for UW-Parkside students, staff, and community members to volunteer locally and in other communities.
In 24 hours, 317 individuals volunteered, contributing 403 hours of service. On-campus Rangers Give Back activities included a blood drive sponsored by Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin, outdoor campus clean-up opportunities, and Clean the World hygiene kit packing. Volunteers packed 1,000 hygiene kits, and the majority were given to the Shalom Center.
Nearly 700 members of the UW-Parkside community attended Parkside Day events on-campus including 110 alumni who returned to campus. In addition to Rangers Give Back, UW-Parkside hosted the Parkside Day Launch Party sponsored by Rustic Road Brewing Company, the Parkside Day Picnic, the Ranger Reunion presented by the UW-Parkside Alumni Association, and more.
Toni Hansen, director of human resources for HARIBO of America, was energized by the generosity and engagement that Parkside Day inspired.
“HARIBO is committed to giving back to the vibrant community in southeastern Wisconsin, and our partnership with UW-Parkside is an important part of that commitment,” Hansen said. “On Parkside Day, we support and encourage others to support programs like the Future Focus Fund that provides critical support to students paving the way for tomorrow’s workforce. As a UW-Parkside alumna, it made me proud to see how many alumni were motivated by the HARIBO giving challenges, and how many people came out to celebrate and give back. That’s what Parkside Day is all about.”
Additional information about Parkside Day and 2023 results is available at www.uwp.edu/parkside-day. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/annual-parkside-day-sets-record-for-volunteers-and-donations-raised/article_4f19568c-f0d9-11ed-8ca1-9bc452e041f0.html | 2023-05-12T23:09:22 | 1 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/annual-parkside-day-sets-record-for-volunteers-and-donations-raised/article_4f19568c-f0d9-11ed-8ca1-9bc452e041f0.html |
From rocks to rivers, insects to animal tracks, Bose Elementary second-graders were on the hunt for signs of erosion during a field trip to Peorio Park Nature Center on Friday.
The second grade classes, which have been learning about erosion were able to see its signs in person. Starting at the Nature Center, 1401 16th Ave., students were instructed on which natural features to look for, such as smooth and sharp rocks, evidence of animals, streams and insects.
Kelly Hanover, a second grade teacher at Bose Elementary, said she brought her dog to the park years ago and saw it was a perfect example for signs of erosion.
“I knew it was here because I did it a couple of years ago with my dog,” Hanover said. “then (my husband and I) brought our other dogs out and they walked around and (I thought), “OK, we could definitely do this.”
People are also reading…
When students, who were divided into groups, found something in the area that appeared to be evidence of erosion, the student photographer of the group took a picture and the students would then move on.
Groups trekked from the playground area of the park, into the outskirts of the woods and then at the bottom of a hill to a bridge where they then hiked back to the park.
“They’ve been working to see what causes erosion, and because we don’t live by the ocean, it was nebulous to them,” Hanover said. “I thought if they came out and saw it in person, it might feel more poignant and meaningful to them.”
This field trip was one of several held this year since the easing of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“They’re really enjoying (the field trip),” Hanover said. “We’ve done five or six (field trips) this year, so there’s been a lot. We have a smaller group so it works well.”
After finding and photographing evidence of erosion at the park, students were then released to play at the park. Many of them expressed an interest in returning to the park with their family.
“I just like to see them out in nature and doing more things,” Hanover said. “I’m hoping that now that we’ve seen that this is here — a couple of the kids have been here before but most of them haven’t — (they’ll) come out for a picnic or something with their family and having another place to go that is free.” | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/bose-elementary-students-get-hands-on-in-learning-about-erosion-control-in-peorio-park/article_f415ecde-f0e0-11ed-9a24-cb61f2bc42d4.html | 2023-05-12T23:09:28 | 0 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/bose-elementary-students-get-hands-on-in-learning-about-erosion-control-in-peorio-park/article_f415ecde-f0e0-11ed-9a24-cb61f2bc42d4.html |
Hartsburg-Emden High School
HARTSBURG — Hartsburg-Emden High School graduation will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at the school.
The salutatorian is Faith Sanders and the valedictorian is William Wisniewski.
The graduates are as follows:
A-F
Bryson Anderson, Alexis Becker, Cassie Crabtree, Prescott Davis, Mason Farris, Robert Fletcher, Dylan Fowler
G-K
Camden Groth, Coleton Hopp
L-P
Wyatt Leinenbach, James McCree, Violet Merz, Abigail Montgomery, Danielle Phillips
Q-Z
Elizabeth Sanders, Gage Shawgo, Rase Sherwood, William Wisniewski and William Wright.
Meet the 2023 prom royalty in Central Illinois
It's prom season in Central Illinois! Here's a look at prom courts for area high schools. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/education/hartsburg-emden-high-school-2023-graduates/article_2a3e7b08-f03e-11ed-9c25-1f9971caf01a.html | 2023-05-12T23:13:10 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/education/hartsburg-emden-high-school-2023-graduates/article_2a3e7b08-f03e-11ed-9c25-1f9971caf01a.html |
GRAY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Land Star Group, the soon-to-be developers of the Keebler property in Washington County, hope to start working on the land in July.
Johnson City commissioners approved the annexation of the Keebler land last Thursday. The land is set to house 482 homes near Suncrest Drive.
“We’re going back and retooling some of the engineering to meet what the city and the planning commission has asked,” said executive director of Land Star, Danny Karst.
Karst said the company is working with the Johnson City commissioners to finalize plans for the development.
LandStar hopes that in July crews can start the environmental work and the layout of the development. Much of the surveying of the land has already been done, but developers could return for more.
“They may have to check on certain points and so forth, and I think it depends largely on some other things that we’re hoping to see happen out there and that is a sort of, if you will, a greenway,” said Danny Karst.
A greenspace and traffic signals are things developers are hoping to add to the plans. LandStar hopes those additions will address some of the worries of nearby homeowners.
“We want to help be a part of that solution, to be able to remedy some of those concerns that they have,” said Carla Karst with Land Star.
Developers said they will meet with the Johnson City Planning Commission in June to go over plans and work through the rezoning of the land. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/development-on-keebler-land-could-start-this-summer/ | 2023-05-12T23:16:24 | 1 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/development-on-keebler-land-could-start-this-summer/ |
ROANOKE, Va. – Roanoke is now officially a Bee City USA affiliate city — vowing to protect bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
A kickoff event to announce the designation was held today in Vic Thomas Park.
It got a lot of buzz.
The goal is to promote healthy, sustainable, pesticide-free habitats to help these species thrive.
“If we want to provide an ecosystem that is healthy for ourselves, our children, our parents, our grandchildren, then we have to protect our ecosystems,” Katherine Knopf, a member of the Roanoke Valley Garden Club said. “Currently, bees are in decline right now, and that’s the big concern for all the garden clubs in the state.”
Through educational programming and sound landscape practices, the city will work to improve and develop more pollinator-friendly habitats. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/05/12/roanoke-becomes-bee-city-usa-affiliate-city/ | 2023-05-12T23:18:52 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/05/12/roanoke-becomes-bee-city-usa-affiliate-city/ |
DANVILLE, Va. – The future home of Caesars Virginia will take its first bet on Monday. 10 News got a first-hand look at what’s in store.
This is a 40,000-square-foot temporary casino as construction continues on the permanent resort next door.
It features more than 700 slot machines and 25 live table games, including blackjack and roulette, and a quick-serve restaurant opening called Three Stacks.
Caesars has hired 400 team members so far.
“We had the opportunity to do two of our test dates this week, and invite individuals to experience this, it gave a chance for our team to get their feet wet with customers in the building, and I couldn’t be more pleased with how they performed and excitement in the community,” Chris Albrecht, General Manager for Caesars Virginia said.
Once the doors open next week, the new casino will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/05/12/temporary-casino-in-danville-opens-monday/ | 2023-05-12T23:18:58 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/05/12/temporary-casino-in-danville-opens-monday/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Protesters are calling out the City of Portland for their lack of action in enforcing camping bans along Safe Routes to School.
On Friday, they spray-painted “SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL” on a sidewalk in Northwest Portland.
The City of Portland passed an emergency declaration last fall banning camping along safe routes and within 150 feet of a school. However, neighbors said it’s not being enforced.
“We want the city and state to make housing and shelter,” said Kara Shane Colley who lives in Portland. “Particularly near a park or a school, there should be no camping.”
KOIN 6 reached out to the City of Portland for a response and a spokesperson said they have no comment to share at this time. | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/protestors-call-out-city-of-portland-for-not-enforcing-safe-routes-to-school/ | 2023-05-12T23:19:10 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/protestors-call-out-city-of-portland-for-not-enforcing-safe-routes-to-school/ |
Michigan State hires new leader for Title IX office
Michigan State University has hired a permanent leader to head its Title IX office, after being without one for more than a year and a half.
Laura Rugless, associate vice president for the Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX at Cornell University, a private Ivy League university in upstate New York, will assume the role of MSU's vice president for civil rights and Title IX education and compliance, effective July 1.
Rugless, an Army veteran, has spent much of her career in public service, with more than 15 years in higher education and state and federal compliance work, university officials said this week. She previously served as Cornell University's Title IX coordinator and as the executive director of equity and access services and Title IX coordinator at Virginia Commonwealth University, a public research university in Richmond, Virginia.
"This role is a key leadership position in our collective focus to create a safer, more welcoming and respectful university community for current and future Spartans," said MSU interim President Teresa Woodruff. "Laura has spent her career advancing equity, civil rights and sexual violence prevention efforts, and her decades of experience in these areas will further our strategic goals. I am excited to welcome her to our team and look forward to her successfully guiding our strategies and bringing a fresh review and perspective to our efforts in preventing and responding to discrimination and sexual violence and misconduct."
Rugless said she was "humbled and excited" to lead the dedicated team and work alongside campus partners "as we do this important work together.”
"MSU's determination and continuous improvement to deliver on its civil rights and Title IX commitments drew me to this exceptional opportunity," Rugless said.
Members of the search committee hailed Rugless as the best leader to lead the office at MSU, which has grappled with sexual misconduct issues for nearly seven years, beginning in 2016 with the now-incarcerated Larry Nassar. More recently, MSU grappled with reporting review of sexual misconduct complaints to the state that prompted concerns among the Board of Trustees, lead to an outside investigation and asking former President Samuel Stanley to consider leaving his post early.
"Laura Rugless is an exceptional leader with a wealth of experience in civil rights and Title IX compliance, having overseen these efforts both within and beyond higher education," said Jabbar Bennett, MSU Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer and co-chair of the search committee. "I look forward to working with Laura and am confident that she will leverage other institutional partners and existing resources to help ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the Spartan community."
Andrea Munford, deputy chief of MSU Public Safety who also served as co-chair of the search committee, added that Rugless "is a thoughtful leader with a people-centered approach to her work."
"In her discussions with the committee, she keenly understood the needs of our community for a supportive structure and approach to create a safer and more respectful environment for Spartans," Munford said. "And she understood the impact this work can have on all individuals involved. I look forward to working with her and seeing the continued progress of the office."
Rugless will earn $300,000 annually, according to university spokesman Dan Olsen.
In October 2021, Stanley cited a "personnel issue" in explaining why he replaced Tanya Jachimiak, MSU's Title IX coordinator.
Two interim leaders have served since, including Sarah Harebo of Grand River Solutions, who currently serves as the interim associate vice president for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX since December 2022 and will continue to serve in this role until Rugless starts with us in July, university spokesman Dan Olsen said. Prior to that, Karey Krohnfeldt from Grand River Solutions served as the interim associate vice president, a role she held for about a year.
The role has since been elevated from an associate vice president to a vice president position.
The search for a new VP of the Office for Civil Rights and Title IX Education began in September 2022 and was briefly paused between October and November of last year due to the presidential transition, Olsen said. MSU resumed active recruitment from December 2022 to February 2023 and had on-campus visits with finalists in April.
Rugless's appointment is subject to board approval at its June 16 meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
kkozlowski@detroitnews.com | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2023/05/12/msu-hires-laura-rugless-cornell-to-lead-office-of-institutional-equity-title-ix/70213556007/ | 2023-05-12T23:27:37 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2023/05/12/msu-hires-laura-rugless-cornell-to-lead-office-of-institutional-equity-title-ix/70213556007/ |
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP — A 62-year-old Valparaiso man who reportedly told police he was focused on bonding his son out of jail joined him there instead after driving into fences at the county animal shelter and then fleeing, Porter County police said.
John Ward faces a charge of leaving the scene of an accident. Police captured him with the assistance of a camera license plate reading system, according to the report.
St. John Police CIT Officer Dustin Wartman is trained in mental health intervention.
Police said they were called out around 2:15 p.m. Thursday to the animal shelter, 3355 S. Bertholet Blvd., where officials told them a man driving a Toyota Highlander drove through the neighboring Expo Center property and struck a chain-link fence before fleeing. The collision also damaged a black iron-rod fence.
Using surveillance footage and the license plate reading system, police tracked down Ward, who said he was on the phone with his son at the nearby county jail at the time of the collision.
Woman charged after 14-year-old Porter County student found with sex videos on cell phone
UPDATE: Intoxicated mom at Valpo elementary school more than 5 times legal limit, cops say
Man faces 6 felonies after refusing to stop destroying Porter County wetland, officials say
Don Knotts' daughter to share humorous stories about family and Mayberry
UPDATE: ID released on Chesterton boy killed by 1 train while waiting for another
Cleveland-Cliffs successfully tests injecting hydrogen into blast furnace in decarbonization breakthrough
Illinois man drove to Porter County to have sex with boy he met online, police say
NWI Business Ins and Outs: Biggby Coffee, Flora Plants, Funk My Life and McDonald's open; Aster & Gray and Elements Wine Bar close
Next generation takes reins at landmark Depot Dog, a longtime favorite for beachgoers
Intoxicated mom dumped kids along U.S. 6, kicked officer in face, Portage police say
Porter County dad on phone with son in jail joins him after hit-and-run crash
Boone Township School Board member caught allegedly trying to meet 14-year-old girl
Valparaiso office sold, to be partly transformed into Montessori school
Trio busted after leading Porter County police chase, tossing alleged meth and needle from vehicle
Jury finds two Gary man guilty of 2017 drug homicide
The Homewood woman was cited for driving too fast for conditions.
He blamed the collision on being upset and distracted.
"John stated it never occurred to him to report the damage to the fences," police said. "John stated he was more worried about the damage to his vehicle and bonding his son out of jail."
Gallery: Recent arrests booked into the Porter County Jail
Dawn Tucker
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 44
Residence: Westville, IN
Booking Number: 2301846
Charges: Sexual misconduct with a minor, felony
Karen Snyder
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 67
Residence: Portage, IN
Booking Number: 2301840
Charges: Intimidation, felony
Anthony Maxberry
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 40
Residence: Portage, IN
Booking Number: 2301837
Charges: Invasion of privacy, felony
Flavio Quintanilla
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 24
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number: 2301842
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Jeremy Riley
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 42
Residence: Hebron, IN
Booking Number: 2301852
Charges: Weapons/Pointing a firearm, felony
Brayden Joseph
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 18
Residence: Chesterton, IN
Booking Number: 2301854
Charges: Battery, misdemeanor
Stephen Kearney
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 36
Residence: Wheatfield, IN
Booking Number: 2301839
Charges: Possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia, felony
Jason Hammer
Arrest date: May 4, 2023
Age: 44
Residence: Darien, IL
Booking Number: 2301848
Charges: Sexual misconduct with a minor, felony
Crystal Robinson
Arrest date: May 3, 2023
Age: 38
Residence: Hebron, IN
Booking Number: 2301821
Charges: Neglect of a dependant, felony
Rebecca Masse
Arrest date: May 3, 2023
Age: 37
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301834
Charges: OWI, felony
Nicholas Kleihege
Arrest date: May 3, 2023
Age: 30
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301820
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Marteus Holbrook
Arrest date: May 3, 2023
Age: 27
Residence: Merrillville, IN
Booking Number: 2301832
Charges: Possession hypodermic syringe or needle, felony
Brandon Welshan
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 35
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301812
Charges: Obstruction of justice, felony
Mitchell Rospierski
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 28
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301818
Charges: Domestic battery, felony
Kevin Shufford II
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 37
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number: 2301809
Charges: Possession of cocaine or narcotic drug, felony
Tumen Tysrendorzhiev
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 39
Residence: Brooklyn, NY
Booking Number: 2301810
Charges: Battery, felony
Georgina Houston
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 46
Residence: Ogden Dunes, IN
Booking Number: 2301819
Charges: Domestic battery, felony
Leona Riley
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 23
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number: 2301815
Charges: Battery, felony
Sandra Dombrowski
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 49
Residence: Porter, IN
Booking Number: 2301817
Charges: OWI, felony
Wardell Brown
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 48
Residence: Chicago, IL
Booking Number: 2301811
Charges: Theft, felony
Timothy Burton
Arrest date: May 2, 2023
Age: 51
Residence: Portage, IN
Booking Number: 2301813
Charges: Domestic battery, misdemeanor
Kaylee Schoenenberger
Arrest date: May 1, 2023
Age: 19
Residence: Portage, IN
Booking Number: 2301798
Charges: Drugs/d ealing schedule I, II , or III controlled substance, felony
Jennifer Bish
Arrest date: May 1, 2023
Age: 44
Residence: Chesterton, IN
Booking Number: 2301791
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Tucker Morse
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 21
Residence: Three Oaks, MI
Booking Number: 2301784
Charges: Possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia, felony
Dustin Mathews
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 39
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number: 2301790
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Aiden McAlvey
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 22
Residence: Crown Point, IN
Booking Number: 2301783
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
William Milan
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 31
Residence: Jackson, MI
Booking Number: 2301787
Charges: Possession legend drug or precursor, felony
Joshua Heaviland
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 22
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301781
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Sierra Kindy
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 37
Residence: Galesburg, MI
Booking Number: 2301786
Charges: Possession of legend drug or precursor, felony
Joseph Bauer
Arrest date: April 30, 2023
Age: 26
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301782
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Giovani Phan
Arrest date: April 29, 2023
Age: 28
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301773
Charges: OWI, felony
Karen Hanchar
Arrest date: April 29, 2023
Age: 63
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301780
Charges: Domestic battery, misdemeanor
Jordan Lewis
Arrest date: April 29, 2023
Age: 33
Residence: Porter, IN
Booking Number: 2301779
Charges: OWI, misdemeanor
Andres Cadena
Arrest date: April 29, 2023
Age: 39
Residence: Portage, IN
Booking Number: 2301770
Charges: Domestic battery, felony
Sean Webster
Arrest date: April 28, 2023
Age: 57
Residence: Valparaiso
Booking Number: 2301758
Charges: Possession legend drug or precursor, felony
Abigail Ziembicki
Arrest date: April 28, 2023
Age: 39
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number: 2301757
Charges: Possession hypodermic syringe or needle, felony
Julia Shannon
Arrest date: April 28, 2023
Age: 28
Residence: Portage, IN
Booking Number: 2301762
Charges: Domestic battery, felony
Paul Hudak Jr.
Arrest date: April 28, 2023
Age: 35
Residence: DeMotte, IN
Booking Number: 2301760
Charges: Possession of cocaine or narcotic drug, felony
Zachary Davenport
Arrest date: April 28, 2023
Age: 20
Residence: Valparaiso, IN
Booking Number: 2301763
Charges: Drugs/dealing schedule I, II, or III controlled substance, felony
Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter
Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/porter-county-dad-on-phone-with-son-in-jail-joins-him-after-hit-and-run/article_9c100510-f0b3-11ed-8d8e-3b845ba7644e.html | 2023-05-12T23:30:27 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/porter-county-dad-on-phone-with-son-in-jail-joins-him-after-hit-and-run/article_9c100510-f0b3-11ed-8d8e-3b845ba7644e.html |
PHOENIX — The last remaining election misconduct claim by Kari Lake, the 2022 Republican candidate for Arizona governor, is playing out in court as state officials and the Democratic governor asked a judge to throw out the case Friday.
Lake was among the most vocal of last year's Republican candidates promoting former President Donald Trump’s election lies, which she made the centerpiece of her campaign. While most other election deniers around the country conceded after losing their races in November, Lake did not.
Courts have dismissed most of the former TV anchor’s lawsuit. On Friday, a judge heard arguments on whether or not Lake’s final claim should move ahead to a trial next week.
Attorneys representing Arizona election officials and Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs say Lake’s allegation that the election was rigged is based on unsubstantiated speculation.
Lake’s lawyers say there was a flood of mail-in ballots in Maricopa County, home to more than 60% of the state’s voters, at a time when there were too few workers to verify ballot signatures. Her attorneys say the county ultimately accepted thousands of ballots that had been rejected earlier by workers for having mismatched signatures.
The Arizona Supreme Court revived her claim challenging the application of signature-verification procedures, reversing a lower court decision that found she waited too long to raise that claim.
The state Supreme Court sent the claim back to the lower court to decide if there is another reason to dismiss it, or if Lake can show that enough votes were affected to change the outcome of the election, which she lost by over 17,000 votes.
Lake alleged at least 164,000 illegal votes were counted, according to filings by her attorneys. Three signature verification workers have said they experienced rejection rates due to mismatched signatures on 15% to 40% of the ballots they encountered.
“The math doesn’t add up,” said Kurt Olsen, one of Lake’s attorneys.
Opposing attorneys said the workers’ speculation doesn’t amount to a violation of the law or misconduct by election workers, and raised questions about whether the three workers truly knew the ultimate outcome of the ballots they had flagged.
Abha Khanna, one of the attorneys representing Hobbs, said Lake’s allegations are “wholly untethered to reality.”
Earlier in her lawsuit, Lake had focused on problems with ballot printers at some polling places in Maricopa County. The defective printers produced ballots that were too light to be read by the on-site tabulators at polling places. Lines backed up in some areas amid the confusion. Lake alleged ballot printer problems were the result of intentional misconduct.
County officials say everyone had a chance to vote and all ballots were counted because those affected by the printers were taken to more sophisticated counters at election headquarters.
In mid-February, the Arizona Court of Appeals rejected Lake’s assertions, concluding she presented no evidence that voters whose ballots were unreadable by tabulators at polling places were not able to vote.
The state Supreme Court declined on March 22 to hear nearly all of Lake’s appeal, saying there was no evidence to support her claim that over 35,000 ballots were added to vote totals. Earlier this month, the court sanctioned Lake’s lawyers $2,000 for making false statements when saying more than 35,000 ballots had been improperly added to the total ballot count.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/kari-lake-election-challenge-shouldnt-proceed-arizona-state-officials-say/75-a8b206f7-50b5-4aeb-94ca-c63b21e36a56 | 2023-05-12T23:31:49 | 0 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/kari-lake-election-challenge-shouldnt-proceed-arizona-state-officials-say/75-a8b206f7-50b5-4aeb-94ca-c63b21e36a56 |
PINETOP-LAKESIDE, Ariz. — A 17-year-old in Pinetop-Lakeside passed away early Monday morning and police are seeking info from the public to further explain the circumstances surrounding the teen's death.
Police said a 911 call was made early Monday in the Pinetop Mountain area about an unconscious teen. When officers arrived, the teenager was declared deceased.
On Tuesday, police executed a search warrant at the residence, resulting in investigators arresting two people.
Kelly Harris and Robert Smith were booked into the Navajo County jail and are facing a charge of negligent homicide, police said.
Pinetop-Lakeside police are continuing to investigate the teen's death and ask anyone with info to contact the agency at 928-368-8800.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on our 12News YouTube playlist here.
More ways to get 12News
On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
We are committed to serving all of the Valley's communities, because we live here, too.
12News is the Official Home of the Arizona Cardinals and the proud recipient of the 2018 Rocky Mountain Emmy Award for Overall Excellence.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Silent Witness:
Arizona's Silent Witness program allows people to send in tips and share information about crimes happening within their local communities.
The program shares unsolved felony case information in multiple ways, including TV, radio and social media.
Anyone who has information on a crime or recognizes a suspect described by the program is asked to call 480-948-6377, go to the program's website online or download the Silent Witness app to provide a tip. The identity of anyone who submits a tip is kept anonymous.
Calls to Silent Witness are answered 24/7 by a live person and submitted tips are accepted at all times. Submitted tips are then sent to the detective(s) in charge of the specific case.
Individuals who submit tips that lead to an arrest or indictment in the case can get a reward of up to $1,000. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/police-seeking-info-arizona-teenagers-death-pinetop-navajo/75-aa66eccf-c054-4c8d-88d1-e5a0005feb91 | 2023-05-12T23:31:55 | 1 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/police-seeking-info-arizona-teenagers-death-pinetop-navajo/75-aa66eccf-c054-4c8d-88d1-e5a0005feb91 |
A Mason City man on the run since February was arrested on Thursday afternoon after running from police and charged with drug and weapon violations.
According to court records, 23-year-old Riley Joe Morris Brekke is facing up to 20 years in prison after being charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance, one count of control of a firearm by a felon and one count of interference with official acts.
The affidavits state that Brekke left Beje Clark Residential Facility on Feb. 18 without permission and did not return. A warrant for his arrest was issued on Feb. 20 and executed at 18 North Monroe Ave. around 1 p.m. Thursday. Brekke was sentenced to serve time at Beje Clark after being convicted of drug, theft and weapons charges last November.
Brekke allegedly fled from police before being apprehended and found to have methamphetamine, marijuana and a CZP-09 9mm handgun on his person. | https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/escapee-allegedly-found-with-drugs-gun/article_e9782f9a-5710-543a-bca0-7f01f88888b0.html | 2023-05-12T23:37:41 | 0 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/escapee-allegedly-found-with-drugs-gun/article_e9782f9a-5710-543a-bca0-7f01f88888b0.html |
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – A 14-year-old Galaxy Middle School student was arrested following a shooting in DeLand on Sunday after an Instagram video showed him with a gun, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the teen was seen in an Instagram video in which two students at the middle school showed off a firearm they had reportedly stolen. The other student, a 15-year-old boy, has already been arrested and faces a firearm possession charge.
Meanwhile, deputies said the 14-year-old was charged by the DeLand Police Department following a shooting that was reported on May 7.
According to a release, a person had arrived at a hospital in Altamonte Springs for treatment after suffering a gunshot wound to his leg.
[TRENDING: Become a News 6 Insider]
While it was initially unclear where the shooting had happened, deputies eventually discovered that the shooting stemmed from an “altercation” in which a fake $100 bill had been exchanged for marijuana. Investigators said this case was separate from a similar shooting that happened earlier this week.
For his role in the Instagram video, the teen also faces a charge of being a principal to possessing a firearm on school property.
Deputies said the gun shown in the Instagram video hasn’t been recovered at this time.
Interviews with the two students involved in the video suggest that the gun was stolen from another student, who in turn stole it from a vehicle, deputies said.
While investigators originally thought the stolen gun was the same one recovered earlier this month from a 13-year-old accused in a string of car burglaries, it was later determined that the gun seen in the Instagram video doesn’t match that firearm, deputies said.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/teen-arrested-in-deland-shooting-after-instagram-video-showed-him-with-gun-deputies-say/ | 2023-05-12T23:37:48 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/05/12/teen-arrested-in-deland-shooting-after-instagram-video-showed-him-with-gun-deputies-say/ |
BALTIMORE — After ruling a Baltimore baby's death a homicide, police have arrested the child's mother.
21-year-old Aurielle Montgomery was arrested for allegedly killing her 1-year-old daughter in October 2022.
Charging documents reveal officers responded to the 2700 block of Ellicott Driveway for reports of a child not breathing on October 4, 2022.
Montgomery told officers she hadn't heard from the baby, Nyemia Gillard, since the night before. Officers attempted to render aid, but Gillard was pronounced dead on the scene.
Investigation revealed Montgomery and another person slept in the same bed as Gillard. While getting ready, a witness who will remain unnamed, noticed the baby wasn't making any noise and was sleeping in a strange position.
He tried to wake the baby, but advised she was "cold to the touch," according to charging documents.
During an autopsy, doctors were able to find several severe internal injuries, noting Gillard had been assaulted. The doctors also noted these injuries were severe enough to cause her death.
Ultimately resulting in Gillard's death being ruled a homicide.
RELATED: Homicide ruled in Baltimore baby's death
She's been hit with a slew of charges like first-degree murder, child abuse, second-degree murder, first-degree assault, first-degree child abuse and second-degree assault.
Her first court appearance is scheduled for June 13. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/charging-docs-police-arrest-mother-who-allegedly-murdered-1-year-old-daughter | 2023-05-12T23:39:04 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/charging-docs-police-arrest-mother-who-allegedly-murdered-1-year-old-daughter |
BALTIMORE COUNTY — Three high school seniors are making history at Notre Dame Preparatory School, after their acceptance into the United States Naval Academy.
In just a short time, Samantha Farley, AnneMarie Gallo and Maya Mercadante will be walking across the stage of graduation at Notre Dame Preparatory School and marching into the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.
It's the first time three students from the same class have been accepted into the naval academy--- and with a graduating class of 151 students, it’s almost unheard of.
"Having three of our graduates in the same year is a historic moment for us, we couldn't be more proud as they go off to serve our country,” said Victor Pellechia, who is the NDP Upper Level Director.
The Naval Academy is considered one of the most competitive service academies to get into, with only an 8.5% acceptance rate. But these incoming midshipmen say they are ready to eat sleep study drill.
As Mercadante said, it's just the start to a dream, "This has been my dream school for a long time and I’m sure it's been their dream school too. It's just it's amazing to get to a goal and be there finally."
Gallo said her family motivated her, "My family has been a very military family I’ve been brought up with the core values of respect and honor and integrity, so I think that when I was looking for colleges the academy really presented everything I wanted from a college.”
For Farley, it's an inspiration that has followed her from childhood, "I grew up on the water and I used to go to Annapolis and see the midshipmen walking up and down main street in the summer whites and thought wow those are some people I want to emulate."
These future midshipmen will join the rest of the plebes on June 29.
They attend the academy for four years and graduate with Bachelor of Science degrees, all while on active duty. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/three-notre-dame-preparatory-school-students-are-heading-to-the-naval-academy | 2023-05-12T23:39:10 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/three-notre-dame-preparatory-school-students-are-heading-to-the-naval-academy |
BALTIMORE — May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month.
There is a young entrepreneur and Baltimorean who hopes his unique product will spark conversation.
Alan TSAO, owner of TSAO Baltimore started the company with a background in marketing design.
All of the watches created have a story that relates to Baltimore.
For example, one watch is named the Torsk-Diver, after the USS Torsk Submarine in the Baltimore Inner Harbor.
A portion of those proceeds went to the Historic Ships of Baltimore to help maintain the submarine.
"We are trying to generate this community, this family," TSAO explained. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/tsao-baltimore-creates-premium-maryland-themed-watches | 2023-05-12T23:39:16 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/tsao-baltimore-creates-premium-maryland-themed-watches |
PORTLAND, Ore. — The mother of 4-year-old Jhorden Clay tried to regain custody of him in the weeks leading up to his death. The boy's father, 19-year-old Marquavious Ware, was arrested on a murder charge after Jhorden died May 3 of suspicious injuries.
Ware appeared in a Multnomah County courtroom Friday, where he pleaded not guilty to killing his son.
Security in the courtroom was noticeably tight due to what happened in the moments following Ware's initial court appearance one week earlier, when his supporters got into a heated confrontation with little Jhorden's mother and her supporters, prompting deputies to intervene.
"I need justice for my son," Jonicia Clay said.
Clay said Jhorden had been with her for nearly all of his life, but in early April she let Jhorden visit his dad. Clay said Ware refused to return the child to her, and would only let him talk with her on FaceTime.
"This is the last time I spoke to my son," Clay said. "I took a FaceTime picture of his face and noticed marks instantly. I called the police. They told me to call non-emergency because it's his father."
Clay said she did that and more. Fearing that Ware had hurt Jhorden and would do so again, Clay filed a restraining order in Clackamas County court on April 26. Family law attorney Teri Plagmann, who is not connected to this case, explained the process.
"If you're trying to file a restraining order you have a burden of proof," Plagmann said. "You have to show there's abuse within the last 180 days by the preponderance of the evidence and that can be difficult."
It appears it was difficult in this case. A judge denied Clay's request for a restraining order, but Plagmann believes it might have played out differently had Clay filed for custody of Jhorden when he was born.
"If you have something that says and delineates 'this is what custody is, this is what parenting time is,' attorneys have an easier time going and enforcing that and parties can go file self help paperwork to enforce it and send police over to pick up a child," Plagmann said.
Police did get involved on May 3 when they were called to Ware's Northeast Portland apartment. Jhorden had blood in his lungs. He was rushed to the hospital where he later died. Doctors said Jhorden had bruising and swelling all over his body. The injuries, they said, were consistent with child physical abuse.
"How do you kill your own kid?" Clay asked.
The question haunts Clay, much like Ware's proclamation of innocence in the courtroom. | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/mother-tried-getting-son-back-before-his-death/283-697319e7-f6e1-468e-bbce-6889f283fa09 | 2023-05-12T23:40:37 | 0 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/mother-tried-getting-son-back-before-his-death/283-697319e7-f6e1-468e-bbce-6889f283fa09 |
“You’re a snowboarder from Arizona? Really?”
Rori Avelar hears that question constantly. Avelar, a 20-year-old Flagstaff native, has been on the professional snowboard tour the past few years.
She rides with and competes against the best in the world, and according to the FIS Snowboarding World Cup rankings, has been ranked as high as No. 24 in the world and No. 6 in the United States.
Still, even with her success, she has to defend her hometown sometimes to competitors.
“It’s funny, I get that question more than you’d think, like, ‘How are you here from Arizona?’ And I have to tell them that, yes, there’s snow in Flagstaff, and, yes, people actually snowboard there,” Avelar said, laughing.
It's been a long journey to get to this point.
People are also reading…
As a child, she played several sports. Randy Avelar, Rori’s father, remembers her as an exceptional athlete, succeeding at nearly everything she tried.
“I think she started riding a bike at like age 2, and then she was a competitive gymnast and won state at her age. Then she went into diving and excelled at that. Everything she did was great,” he said.
Rori began snowboarding for fun locally, and around age 10 she started to ride competitively. That meant contests locally and in surrounding states. At age 12, she was invited to the USA Snowboarding Association (USASA) national meet. Then, at 16, she won a USASA title.
However, to get to the next level, she needed more exposure and training than could be provided in Flagstaff.
At age 16, Rori moved to Colorado to train with the best in the country. She joined the US Revolution Tour, comprised of many of the top teenage snowboarders in the United States and Canada.
“The hardest part was leaving my family,” Rori said, “but I feel like since a very young age, I've just kind of loved traveling and exploring new places, and I am pretty good at staying by myself and figuring things out that way.”
“It was really difficult having your daughter leave home at 16,” Randy added. “But it’s what she wanted to do and that's what she loves. So we were super supportive of her and the host family that she had was phenomenal. She was chasing that goal.”
Rori had two good friends living with her and the host family, too -- which made the transition easier. But despite some initial difficulties, Rori was hardly ever swayed to come home.
“In the back of my mind I knew that I could always go back to Flagstaff. But I can’t always go live in Colorado and train and have this opportunity,” she said.
Then the real work began; training five days per week, joining up eventually with the Tru Snowboarding team, while taking online high school, and riding nearly every off day with friends and others on the Revolution Tour to stay in peak form. And it was constant competition, traveling all around the world to ride.
In the 2021-22 season, Rori finished fifth on the Revolution Tour, gaining her even more exposure to the best snowboarders in the world at the professional level.
It seemed, especially to Rori’s friends outside of the snowboarding community, like a truly blissful existent.
But that’s before they heard about a few of the breaks, one literal, that made life difficult on tour.
In the 2020-21 season, marred obviously with COVID-19, Tru Snowboarding coach Chris Waker broke his neck. He never could ride the same again, and his coaching took a hit because of it.
That was the first blow.
Then, on April 8, 2021, teammate Eli McDermott committed suicide. His death took a toll on the team, and many didn’t know how to respond.
Rori still gets emotional thinking about it.
“I just had to get away for a little,” she said.
Rori moved to Hawaii in the summer, working a summer job at the North Shore, and didn’t think about snow or snowboarding for several months. She admits that, for a bit, she contemplated whether competitive snowboarding would still be her future.
“I feel like I have a lot of people who come up to me and they’re like, ‘You’re living this amazing life, snowboarding all the time,’ and, yeah, I love it, I don’t want to do anything else,” she said. “But with the things that have happened and all the work it takes, it’s not like everyone thinks. It can be really hard.”
Still, in October of that year, Rori told her family that she wanted back in. Randy said the family was all for it, with the stipulation that Rori would not go back to the same place in Copper Mountain, but would instead head to Park City, Utah, which has a similar reputation as one of the top winter sports scenes in the country.
She’s been been competing since then, though offseasons often find her back in Hawaii after a brief stint at home in Flagstaff.
Rori took second in the slopestyle competition at the USASA National Championships in Frisco, Colorado, on April 6 of this year. That’s just one of many podium finishes she’s had throughout the past few years.
More important, her love of snowboarding has only grown.
“I just think like pushing myself, I always like challenging myself and it's like I've gotten to this point of snowboarding, but there’s always more you can do, more you can accomplish,” Rori said. “And snowboarding has also taken me to so many cool places and helped me meet so many cool people, and I really appreciate what it’s done for me.”
The latest season is over, and Rori plans to be home in Flagstaff for a while before traveling some, and eventually getting back into riding when the next winter nears.
In addition to competition, Rori plans to make snowboarding videos. Those include runs on the mountains, but also potentially in cities on streets or benches or wherever she can jump and ride down.
And, of course, she wants to keep climbing the rankings, too.
“I just want to keep trying new things and see where it takes me,” Rori said. | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/local-snowboarder-rori-avelar-making-splash-on-international-level/article_5f4ab006-f07e-11ed-9124-6f701c4a326c.html | 2023-05-12T23:40:49 | 1 | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/local-snowboarder-rori-avelar-making-splash-on-international-level/article_5f4ab006-f07e-11ed-9124-6f701c4a326c.html |
AUSTIN, Texas — It was a celebration at the Esperanza Community in southeast Austin on Friday.
Local nonprofit The Other Ones Foundation (TOOF) was happy to announce the completion of 50 tiny home cabins at the community for people who have experienced homelessness.
"There is an entire life behind the doors of these shelters. [An] entire life that has been changed, that has gone from suffering in isolation to thriving in the community," said Chris Baker, executive director of TOOF.
One of those people so glad to call the community home is Angelito Diaz.
Diaz said he had been living on the streets of Austin since 1990 and went through some tough times.
But now?
"I can lock my door. I have a sense of security now. I have a sense of being," Diaz said.
The 50 tiny homes sit on land that used to be a Texas Department of Transportation work yard. Earlier this year, TOOF received $3 million in funding from Travis County, and it has also gotten help from the State of Texas and from entrepreneur John Paul DeJoria and his Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation.
"We are very proud because our motto at the Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation – success unshared is failure," DeJoria said.
The Esperanza Community also offers food and services, including work opportunities, to its members, with the goal of getting them into long-term housing.
That will be happening for Diaz, who has been working with a caseworker. He plans to move into an apartment soon.
"Great – woohoo! I am finally get a bathtub," he said.
In total, there will be 200 tiny homes built in the Esperanza Community, giving its residents hope for a better life. | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/homeless/the-other-ones-foundation-tiny-homes-esperanza-community/269-229b92db-0299-40db-be34-c8bb91659c8c | 2023-05-12T23:41:42 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/homeless/the-other-ones-foundation-tiny-homes-esperanza-community/269-229b92db-0299-40db-be34-c8bb91659c8c |
RICHARDSON, Texas — When Jacob Mitchell walked out of Richardson High School at noon on Thursday, he did so with a mission in his heart.
"It's a way to be heard," Mitchell said. "Walking out is showing that you believe in this, and that's how you get heard."
Mitchell, who is finishing his junior year at RHS, spent his freshman year learning virtually during the height of COVID-19. Since he's been in-person over the past few years, he said he's developed severe anxiety over going to school that he has to take medication to treat.
"After shootings in Parkland, in Allen recently and Nashville, it just feels so anxious," Mitchell said. "It can happen anywhere at any time. It could happen right now and there's nothing that would be done about it."
Mitchell said his anxiety looks like constantly checking for exits when entering new classrooms and spaces, and constantly thinking about a possible escape plan.
"I'm constantly checking the doors," Mitchell said. "If I see someone coming in and out of the school, I immediately think if they have a gun."
Mitchell's mother said that his anxiety attacks causes him to have debilitating stomachaches and fear that's hard to control, which has led him to missing multiple days of school.
"It was either sickness or being scared of going to school," Mitchell said of his absences.
When he participated in Thursday's walkout, Mitchell said he and about a dozen other students were not allowed to re-enter the building. They'd been locked and received unexcused absences for the day.
"I think it's absurd," Mitchell said. "I think being expelled for that day and not being let back in is absurd. School is supposed to protect us."
Thursday's absence marks 10 absences for Mitchell. His mother said they've received truancy letters from the district and that the 10th absence could put him in a position to not be able to complete his courses this semester under the district's attendance policy.
Richardson ISD sent an email out to parents on Wednesday, the day before the scheduled protest, informing them that students who left campus to participate would not be able to re-enter their schools afterward and would receive an unexcused absence. The districted cited a concern about student safety, stating that walking out would be "disrupting" the school day and encouraged students to reach out to their legislators.
"Calling, emails...everything like that; it won't work," Mitchell said. "You didn't see Martin Luther King Jr. or anyone like that just sending mail to the president. They were protesting and giving speeches. That's how you get heard."
Students across North Texas have been holding similar walk-out demonstrations this week, with many citing Saturday's mass shooting in Allen as their motivation to call for change.
Students in Plano ISD held walkouts on Wednesday, and Allen High School students held demonstrations Thursday.
"We saw what the Plano students did, and we were inspired since the shooting happened in our own neighborhood," Allen High School junior Jordan Roberson said.
Students at the Allen High School demonstration told WFAA they were told they would be "written up" for participating in the walkout.
"Why should I get detention because I don't want to die at school?" one Allen High School student asked. "It's only when we do things that will get us in trouble that they will listen to us. Our lives on the line, and I think it's very worth it."
A spokesperson for Allen ISD told WFAA that a majority of the students who participated in the walkout did so during their lunch period and that as long as they did not miss a class to attend, they did not receive disciplinary action or an unexcused absence.
WFAA also reached out to Plano ISD and Frisco ISD with questions about how districts responded to student participation in gun violence protests and any absences that may have followed. Neither district responded.
Mitchell, who is an AP and honor roll student, said he's not overly concerned with his absences impacting his ability to complete his courses as the semester comes to a close. However, he said he is concerned about the sentiment felt by the district's stance on the protest.
"The message I get is 'We don't care. You can walk out all you want, and nothing is going to change,'" Mitchell said.
It's already hard to feel safe. He said it would've been nice to feel supported.
"I just have to live with it," Mitchell said. "I have to talk myself down every day." | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/students-stand-by-decision-walk-out-protest-gun-violence-despite-possible-consequences/287-b5564991-9ad4-4855-9743-9d8f5b28cbf5 | 2023-05-12T23:41:48 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/students-stand-by-decision-walk-out-protest-gun-violence-despite-possible-consequences/287-b5564991-9ad4-4855-9743-9d8f5b28cbf5 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.