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TRESCKOW, Pa. — In Carbon County, crews responded to a fire on East Market Street just before 2 p.m.
The fire spread from one home to another one close by.
A third home sustained heat damage so did a garage.
In total, four structures were impacted.
The McAdoo fire chief says the hot temperatures only made conditions more difficult.
"The stress on the body; it just has guys being able to go in and do one round of firefighting work and have to take a break. Now it's just clean up, which is even more so it's totally taxing with the heat today," said Chief Robert Leshko.
Officials say no one was injured.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Want to see what Newswatch 16's newscast was like in 1976? Head on over to WNEP's YouTube. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/carbon-county/fire-damages-several-buildings-in-carbon-county-east-market-street-tresckow-mcadoo-wnep/523-c1274638-174a-4dc9-9ea9-7e77133796e9 | 2023-06-01T21:30:59 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/carbon-county/fire-damages-several-buildings-in-carbon-county-east-market-street-tresckow-mcadoo-wnep/523-c1274638-174a-4dc9-9ea9-7e77133796e9 |
SCRANTON, Pa. — The schoolyard at John F. Kennedy Elementary in Scranton's south side may look like this now, but there are plans to transform it into a safe and fun space for students.
During an assembly inside the school's gym, Scranton School District officials, along with the city and other nonprofit organizations, unveiled the plans for a new playground.
"It's all about the students from beginning to end. It's their space, and it's important that they have that sense of autonomy and that sense of ownership," said Abi Mlo, a stewardship and engagement coordinator for the Trust for Public Lands.
Trust for Public Lands, a national nonprofit, selected Scranton for the community schoolyard project.
Earlier this year, members of the nonprofit came to the school and teamed up with third grade students from Mrs. Zapata's class. The kids were asked to brainstorm and design ideas of what they wanted in their schoolyard.
The students who helped design this playground won't be at this school forever, but they're happy that they'll be able to leave their mark forever.
"We worked together, and you made a playground for more people to play on and people can have fun," said third grader Tess Lewis.
The Scranton City Council set aside $500,000 for schoolyard transformations, with JFK Elementary as the first.
"This is the first of hopefully many," Mlo said. "I think the future is definitely looking bright for green schoolyards in Scranton."
The design must be finalized, but officials hope to break ground sometime next year.
Check out WNEP's YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lackawanna-county/plans-to-transform-scranton-schoolyards-school-district-nonprofit-trust-for-public-lands/523-53185a2b-2f1a-4195-b950-708aebe0cf3f | 2023-06-01T21:31:00 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lackawanna-county/plans-to-transform-scranton-schoolyards-school-district-nonprofit-trust-for-public-lands/523-53185a2b-2f1a-4195-b950-708aebe0cf3f |
WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — AIDS Resource in Williamsport is striving to bring first-class health care to those in the LGBTQ+ community.
In May, the non-profit opened its AR Health Clinic.
"Creating a space that is safe and people can feel accepted and welcome is so important, especially when we are talking about health care," said Megan Bloom of AIDS Resource.
Dr. Andrew Haussmann is a long-time primary care doctor. He is now the medical director at the clinic.
"For me as a physician to reach out to folks who maybe aren't getting the care that they would have gotten before is a really exciting opportunity," he said.
AIDS Resource is committed to providing free HIV and Hepatitis C testing. However, the clinic offers much more than that.
"Our focus is going to be on providing primary care for folks. We are going to focus on health maintenance and health screenings. We want to help people live the best lives they can," said Dr. Haussmann.
The clinic welcomes patients with or without insurance. As Pride Month begins, the clinic is looking for new patients to add.
"We have lots of openings. Right now, we are keeping things a little bit kind of relaxed so we can spend time getting to know folks," Dr. Haussmann added.
"We are excited to bring more people in and let them know about AIDS Resource and AR Health," stated Bloom.
People can schedule appointments by contacting AIDS Resource directly.
Check out WNEP’s YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lycoming-county/lgbtq-health-clinic-open-and-ready-to-go-in-lycoming-county-aids-resource-in-williamsport-wnep/523-ea82cd55-a7c9-41c4-951f-909b68b8b07c | 2023-06-01T21:31:01 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lycoming-county/lgbtq-health-clinic-open-and-ready-to-go-in-lycoming-county-aids-resource-in-williamsport-wnep/523-ea82cd55-a7c9-41c4-951f-909b68b8b07c |
BLAKESLEE, Pa. — Whether it's a gallon of bleach, a bucket of oil-based paint, or a weed killer, The Monroe County Municipal Waste Management Authority is making it easy for you to dispose of these chemicals safely.
"Most of these items could be hazardous to both the environment and humans as well. Gasoline can explode and start a fire. Same thing with propane tanks. We have weed killers and grass killers. Those things, even if they just start leakin' into the ground, can get into the water table," said Kevin Kundratic, the Deputy Executive Director.
That's why this Saturday, the agency is hosting its annual household hazardous waste disposal.
Kundradic says items like Motor oil, lithium batteries, and pool chemicals are not safe to dispose of in a landfill.
"Number one, you're taking up space that could be used for things that normally should be disposed of in a landfill. Secondly, you're creating a hazard for the landfill because if some of these chemicals mix together in the landfill, it can start a fire," said Kundratic.
To drop off your hazardous materials at the Municipal Waste Management Authority this weekend, you have to be a Monroe County resident and pre-register for the event. Now depending on what you're bringing, prices can range from $0.50 to a couple of dollars.
"These events need to be successful. We need the community to be involved. We need them to participate so that we can continue to do this," said Kundratic.
The household Hazardous Waste Disposal runs Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To pre-register or to see a list of what can be accepted, click here.
Check out WNEP’s YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/find-out-how-to-get-rid-of-hazardous-waste-if-you-live-in-monroe-county-municipal-waste-management-authority/523-02baaa90-6722-4132-a015-b53da46b08f0 | 2023-06-01T21:31:07 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/find-out-how-to-get-rid-of-hazardous-waste-if-you-live-in-monroe-county-municipal-waste-management-authority/523-02baaa90-6722-4132-a015-b53da46b08f0 |
STROUDSBURG, Pa. — LGBTQ+ Pride flags have returned to Main Street in Stroudsburg to celebrate Pride Month as the borough prepares to block off Courthouse Square for the Pocono Pride Festival.
This year, organizers are going bigger and better than ever before.
"Look for 50-plus vendors. In the past, we've had about 30 to 40, so it increased a little bit there. We increased our security as well. Security is very important, but we also made sure that people want drag shows, so we increased our one-hour drag show to two hours," said Stroudsburg Mayor Michael Moreno.
Before the festival on Sunday, Christ Episcopal Church on North 7th Street is hosting a pride mass Saturday at 5 p.m.
"True Colors, I think, is the procession. Then we come in, and there's a welcome. There are some prayers. We are still going to confess because the Christian church has done some harm to this particular community, and so we need to repent for that," said Fr. Bruce Gowe, Christ Episcopal Church.
This year's festival has expanded its footprint from Courthouse Square up North 7th Street and onto Main. Parking spots between 6th Street and 8th Street will be blocked off to accommodate all the vendors.
"We started with, 'Is there a need?' And if there wasn't a need, then it would die out and wouldn't need to do it, but year over year over year, it shows that there is a need. We hear kids who feel comfortable like, 'Oh, my God, there's a pride festival right here in downtown Stroudsburg. I can come out and be myself.' So it's really exciting to be able to offer that opportunity for them," Mayor Moreno said.
"It's really a celebration of queerness for all people. It's not just for LGBTQ, but it's also allies and support," Fr. Gowe said.
The Pocono Pride Festival will take over the Courthouse Square and some surrounding streets on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Check out WNEP's YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/pocono-pride-in-downtown-stroudsburg-courthouse-square/523-0997ac4d-bcf5-4103-a360-65cd0ea646cc | 2023-06-01T21:31:13 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/pocono-pride-in-downtown-stroudsburg-courthouse-square/523-0997ac4d-bcf5-4103-a360-65cd0ea646cc |
SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY, Pa. — A driver has been sentenced for her role in a deadly hit and run in Susquehanna County.
Brooke Petersen, 21, of Union Dale, was sentenced Wednesday to five years of probation, the first nine months of it, on house arrest. She must also do 100 hours of community service.
Jeremy Clark, 17, was hit and killed along Route 171 near Stillwater Dam in October 2021.
Troopers say Petersen was the driver of the car that hit Clark and took off. She then allegedly came back with Joseph Thomas and Gloria Davis in a different car.
Police believe all three fled again and conspired not to tell anyone about the crash.
Gloria Davis and Joseph Thomas pleaded guilty in April to obstruction of law and were sentenced to seven days to 18 months on house arrest. They also pleaded guilty to conspiracy and were sentenced to probation.
See news happening? Text our Newstip Hotline. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/susquehanna-county/woman-sentenced-for-deadly-hit-and-run-in-susquehanna-county-union-dale-stillwater-dam/523-6a48bd00-e216-403e-bda0-47b6d4052441 | 2023-06-01T21:31:19 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/susquehanna-county/woman-sentenced-for-deadly-hit-and-run-in-susquehanna-county-union-dale-stillwater-dam/523-6a48bd00-e216-403e-bda0-47b6d4052441 |
LEWISBURG, Pa. — Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation as well as good exercise. Recent census data shows that around 7 percent of Lewisburg residents bike to work.
"Which is fairly high in the United States, that's about comparable to where Portland, Oregon is, which is seen as a very bikeable community," said Taylor Lightman, the director of the nonprofit Lewisburg Neighborhoods.
Bina Bilenky-Trahan is a member of the Lewisburg borough council. Lightman and Bilenky-Trahan are passionate about cycling and are working to make the Lewisburg area more bikeable.
The Buffalo Valley Rail Trail was recently extended into Lewisburg.
"Which goes from Lewisburg borough all the way to Mifflinburg borough, so we added an addition to that," Lightman said.
Recently, a public bike pump was installed just off the rail trail so people can fix their bikes. Last month, stencils were painted on several streets in and around Lewisburg, telling drivers to share the road with cyclists.
"Places where you're not able to have a dedicated bike lane to let folks know cyclists are present, that cyclists are legally allowed to be there, and cyclists are legally allowed to take the entire lane," Bina Bilenky-Trahan said.
On Wednesday evenings, Lewisburg hosts a slow roll, a community bike ride for all ages and abilities.
"To bring awareness to cycling in the borough, get more folks on bikes, get more folks comfortable riding around the borough," Bilkeny-Trahan said.
And while they are not bicycles, motorized scooters are also a new addition to Lewisburg. By using an app, people can rent and ride them, increasing two-wheeled transportation even more in the borough. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/union-county/lewisburg-area-becoming-more-bike-friendly-bicycle-biking/523-7d02ec2e-065c-4b3a-8ab0-cc5701554ef5 | 2023-06-01T21:31:25 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/union-county/lewisburg-area-becoming-more-bike-friendly-bicycle-biking/523-7d02ec2e-065c-4b3a-8ab0-cc5701554ef5 |
TUNKHANNOCK, Pa. — Cars and campers filed into Lazybrook Park for the NEPA Bluegrass Festival.
The gate opened at 8 a.m., and many festivalgoers got here early to get the perfect spot to spend the weekend.
For many, this is a tradition, including Chris Griffiths and his friends, who already had their camp set up.
"We rented a 30x30 tent, we have about 40-50 people coming this weekend, so we cook for everybody, and we have a big campfire," Griffiths said.
Bluegrass festival promoter Danny Stewart says this event gets bigger and better every year because of the growing interest in the genre.
This year's festival features performers and bands from all over the country.
"Tennessee, Nashville, Georgia, North Carolina. I've got one coming from Missouri," said Stewart.
There are also plenty of local vendors who spent the day setting up.
Trish Ratchford and her husband, Dave, run The Lunch Box food truck, and this is their fifth year at the festival.
They spend weeks preparing but have plans in place in case they need more supplies.
"We have some things in place. Our vendors are aware, so they'll actually run stuff to us if we need it," Ratchford said.
With so many acts playing on two stages this weekend, it's not the only place where you'll be able to hear the music.
"There will be tons of jams. There are official jams, and then there are jams that are at all the campsites, and I love joining them too," said Steven Simpson.
Weather always plays a big factor in the crowd, and this weekend looks ideal.
Many people come prepared for the heat with ways to keep cool.
"There's a creek here. A lot of people swim and jump in the creek. People bring their innertubes and go about a mile up and float down the creek," Stewart said.
The bands take the stage Friday, and the festival wraps up Sunday night.
Check out WNEP’s YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/wyoming-county/nepa-bluegrass-festival-kicks-off-weekend-of-music-in-wyoming-county-tunkhannock-lazybrook-park-wnep/523-cd08b6e5-69d9-4b17-8c76-cbfef93d4b92 | 2023-06-01T21:31:31 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/wyoming-county/nepa-bluegrass-festival-kicks-off-weekend-of-music-in-wyoming-county-tunkhannock-lazybrook-park-wnep/523-cd08b6e5-69d9-4b17-8c76-cbfef93d4b92 |
Oregon, Washington sue companies that make firefighting foam
April Ehrlich
Oregon Public Broadcasting
Attorneys general in Oregon and Washington announced Wednesday that they’re suing 21 manufacturers of firefighting foam.
The two lawsuits, filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court and King County Superior Court, claim the companies are legally responsible for polluting drinking water, fish and wildlife habitat with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs.
PFAs are chemicals used in firefighting foam. They’re also in some household products, like nonstick pans and food packaging.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that exposure to PFAs can contribute to significant health issues, including decreased fertility, birth defects and cancer. | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/oregon-washington-sue-companies-that-make-firefighting-foam/70278715007/ | 2023-06-01T21:31:49 | 1 | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/oregon-washington-sue-companies-that-make-firefighting-foam/70278715007/ |
Salem's splash fountains open early
Looking to beat the summer heat? Salem's splash fountains are now open for the season.
The fountains are typically activated in mid-June but came on early this year. The move comes ahead of next week when high temperatures are forecasted to be in the mid 80s.
The city has seven self-operating splash pads in neighborhood parks and larger parks such as Riverfront and River Road. They include:
- Riverfront Park
- River Road Park
- Englewood Park
- Fairmount Park
- Northgate Park
- Wes Bennett Park
- West Salem Park
The splash fountains at Riverfront and River Road Parks are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., two hours earlier than the splash fountains at the smaller neighborhood parks.
Locations and operation times for the splash fountains are listed online at cityofsalem.net/community/things-to-do/recreation-sports-and-activities/camps-activities/play-in-park-spray-fountains.
Now that they are turned on for the season, the splash fountains will be open seven days a week through the Labor Day holiday weekend.
For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on Twitter at @wmwoodworth | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/salem-splash-fountains-open-early/70275292007/ | 2023-06-01T21:31:50 | 0 | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/salem-splash-fountains-open-early/70275292007/ |
Florida awards nearly $1 million to Fort Meade for downtown stormwater improvements
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced an award Tuesday of $969,900 to Fort Meade to make stormwater improvements in the downtown commercial corridor, his office announced.
The award is among $15 million in grants to five rural communities through the Rural Infrastructure Fund program, which supports community economic development projects intended to strengthen public infrastructure and expand job opportunities.
The funding is administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. The award to Fort Meade will help to reduce flooding and improve stormwater management to retain jobs and draw new businesses to the area, a news release said.
High-speed internetState awards two grants totaling $4.1 million to expand broadband access in Polk County
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Bowen YardFood and event venue aims to 'create an experience' in downtown Winter Haven
The Rural Infrastructure Fund program seeks to facilitate the access of rural communities to infrastructure funding programs, such as those offered by the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant, United States Department of Agriculture-Rural Development and the United States Department of Commerce-Economic Development Administration, the release said. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/florida-awards-fort-meade-nearly-1-million-for-stormwater-upgrades/70274378007/ | 2023-06-01T21:35:03 | 0 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/florida-awards-fort-meade-nearly-1-million-for-stormwater-upgrades/70274378007/ |
Daniel Krueger returns to Lake Wales Commission, as Kris Fitzgerald declared ineligible
Nearly two years of drama for the Lake Wales City Commission ended — apparently — with barely a murmur.
When the commission met Wednesday afternoon for a work session, City Clerk Jennifer Nanek introduced the five members, including Daniel Krueger in Seat 4. Neither Krueger nor any other commissioner commented on the fact that the seat had been empty for the two previous meetings.
It was only during the commissioners’ comment period near the end of the meeting that Krueger and his colleagues obliquely referred to his return.
“It’s good to be back,” Krueger said in a matter-of-fact tone.
And with that, any possibility that former Commissioner Kris Fitzgerald might rejoin the board is seemingly gone.
Wednesday’s meeting culminated a saga that included Fitzgerald’s arrest in 2021, her suspension by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, her acquittal at trial last year and her reinstatement by DeSantis in early May — only to be negated before she could rejoin the City Commission.
Lake Wales City Attorney Chuck Galloway told commissioners at the May 16 meeting that Fitzgerald was ineligible to return to her position, pointing to a provision in the city charter stating that any commissioner who moves out of their district vacates the position.
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High-speed internetState awards two grants totaling $4.1 million to expand broadband access in Polk County
Galloway said that Fitzgerald had moved from the Seat 4 district at some point during her suspension. Fitzgerald spoke during the public comments at the May 16 meeting, saying that she had consulted with attorneys and planned on “taking this as far as possible to gain the seat back because that's what the voters asked for.”
Public comments are not allowed at work sessions, and it wasn’t clear whether Fitzgerald attended Wednesday’s meeting. She did not respond to a request for comment.
Just before the meeting adjourned, Galloway told commissioners that they needed to sign a form making official that Fitzgerald had abandoned her seat. He said the city charter required that formality.
No one mentioned Fitzgerald by name during the 22-minute work session. It was only after the commission had covered its agenda that the members noted Krueger’s return.
“Welcome back,” said Commissioner Daniel Williams, in a statement echoed by other members.
“I just have a feeling, hopefully, that we are through — coming through — a lot of turmoil that we’ve endured,” Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson said. “I think we've got a pretty solid base to work from. I’m very optimistic about this, and the Lake Wales Envisioned and the things that are on the horizon.”
Lake Wales Envisioned is a master plan for various revitalization projects throughout the city.
Mayor Jack Hilligoss followed Gibson: “And based on the deputy mayor's comments, I'm going to say, ‘Knock on wood,’ and we are adjourned.”
Galloway then advised the commissioners on the need to sign the declaration of vacancy. The document states that Fitzgerald vacated her position on Dec. 2, 2022. It included a copy of an application in Fitzgerald’s name for residential water service from the city of Winter Haven on that date.
Keith Thompson, the commission’s newest member, asked Galloway, “Are we going to be in any legal issues, because I understood that we had 30 days to act?”
Galloway said the 30-day deadline applied to DeSantis’ original order suspending Fitzgerald and “doesn’t relate to this situation.”
All five members signed the declaration.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Fitzgerald in June 2021, alleging that she used a gun to threaten an 11-year-old boy whom she'd picked up without his parents' permission. An arrest affidavit alleged that Fitzgerald confronted the boy about an incident involving her daughter, then 13.
DeSantis issued an executive order about a month later suspending her from office. The governor cited a state rule saying an elected official indicted in a crime may be suspended from office until acquitted.
Fitzgerald was found not guilty in October on two charges, interference with custody and aggravated assault, after a two-day trial overseen by Circuit Court Judge Lori Winstead in Bartow. Seven months later, DeSantis signed an executive order on May 10 revoking his previous order and reinstating Fitzgerald to the City Commission.
When the City Commission held its regular meeting on May 16, however, the chair for the Seat 4 commissioner remained vacant. Fitzgerald, 43, spoke during the public comments section of that meeting, saying she disagreed with the denial of her reinstatement.
“I feel like it's unethical and unjust — now, again, not just for myself, but again, for voters that went out and voted,” Fitzgerald said.
She said that her life had been “turned upside down” by the arrest, the trial and her suspension from the commission.
“Because my work was disrupted, I was not working for two years,” said Fitzgerald, a counselor. “I couldn't work under my license. I couldn't work with anyone under the age of 18.”
She said she had to leave her home in District 4 for financial reasons and asked that the commission give her time to return to the district. Hilligoss was absent from the May 16 meeting, but Gibson, a lawyer, said the city charter allowed no option for her to rejoin the commission.
In his most recent order, DeSantis wrote that Fitzgerald was entitled to back pay for her lost time on the City Commission. That will now cover only the period before her move, Galloway said at the previous meeting. Nanek said Wednesday that the city hadn't yet determined the amount owed to Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald gained election to the City Commission in April 2021, defeating incumbent Al Goldstein by a mere 32 votes. Following her suspension, the City Commission appointed Hilligoss to replace her.
Hilligoss successfully ran for mayor last year, and Krueger captured the election for Seat 4, receiving 51.9% of the vote to beat James Loydd.
Krueger’s return occurred less than a month after Thompson joined the commission, having won election in Seat 3 to succeed Terrye Howell. Gibson was also sworn in for a fourth term at the May 2 meeting after repelling a challenge from Danielle Pride Gibson in the Seat 5 race.
Gary White can be reached at gary.white@theledger.com or 863-802-7518. Follow on Twitter @garywhite13. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/lake-wales/70270023007/ | 2023-06-01T21:35:09 | 1 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/lake-wales/70270023007/ |
Polk County lifts burn ban after recent rains
Polk County repealed its burn ban Thursday because of a recent increase in rain.
Residents in unincorporated Polk are allowed to light up campfires, bonfires, fireworks, unpermitted controlled burns, burning of yard, household and construction debris.The county had been under a two-month burn ban because of dry conditions. Polk County Fire Rescue declared a ban March 31 shortly after a brushfire scorched about 1,000 acres near River Ranch, destroying about 200 outbuildings.
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Less than half of Polk is averaging over 500 on the Keetch-Byram Drought Index, a continuous reference scale used by the Florida Forest Service to assess the likelihood and severity of brushfires. The scale ranges from zero to 800, which reflects extreme danger.
The burn ban may be reinstated if ground conditions get dry again. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/recent-heavy-rains-prompt-polk-to-rescind-its-burn-ban/70276671007/ | 2023-06-01T21:35:15 | 0 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/recent-heavy-rains-prompt-polk-to-rescind-its-burn-ban/70276671007/ |
Summer camp registration open for Tenoroc Youth Conservation Center
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is bringing a new slate of youth programing to Lakeland this summer.
The FWC's Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network will host a youth summer camp for children ages 8 to 14 at the Tenoroc Public Use Area, 3760 Tenoroc Mine Road, from late June to July. It will be the first series of events for the state Youth Conservation to be built in Lakeland, the fifth in the state.
The camp will offer four weekly sessions: June 26-30, July 3-7, July 10-14, and July 24-28. It will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, offering opportunities to fish, kayak, explore wildlife and participate in archery. The cost is $120 per week.
Callie Shaffer, FWC's newly appointed director of Tenoroc Youth Conservation Center, said the camp's activities will be more expansive than in the past.
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"We want to try to get as many kids involved as possible," she said.
The summer camp will utilize Tenoroc's existing buildings. Shaffer said the state has plans to construct new facilities specifically for the Youth Conservation Center in the upcoming months. It would make Lakeland the fifth site of the state's new Youth Conservation Centers Network after Apollo Beach, Ocala, Tallahassee, and West Palm Beach.
Register online at fyccn.org/tenoroc-youth-conservation-center-3. For more information, contact Shaffer at Callie.Shaffer@myFWC.com. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/tenoroc-youth-conservation-center-offering-summer-camps/70274532007/ | 2023-06-01T21:35:21 | 0 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/tenoroc-youth-conservation-center-offering-summer-camps/70274532007/ |
Watson Clinic Foundation offers financial assistance for breast cancer patients
The Watson Clinic Foundation is accepting applications for the Bridge of Hope Program, offering needs-based supportive services for people undergoing treatment for breast cancer. The foundation received a grant from the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation for $15,000.
The program offers up to $750 for assistance with travel expenses, groceries, child care, rent or mortgage payments, utilities or phone bills, household cleaning/organization or yard maintenance.
To be eligible, applicants must be undergoing active treatment in Polk County for a breast cancer diagnosis; be a Polk County resident over 18; have an annual household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; and have less than $5,000 in total household liquid assets.
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Close encounterFlorida black bear ambles into Lake Wales, climbs a tree before departing
Applicants must complete and submit an online application and submit all required support documentation and be willing to fill out an online questionnaire upon completion of the program. All applications must be submitted electronically online at WatsonClinic.com/BridgeofHope.
Prospective applicants who do not have access to a computer may contact the Arts in Medicine coordinator for assistance by phone at 863-603-4718 or may send an email to AIM@WatsonClinic.com for additional information. Assistance is not provided until eligibility is determined. No financial relief will be paid directly to any applicant. Financial relief will be paid to the service provider. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/watson-clinic-program-offers-financial-help-for-breast-cancer-patients/70270659007/ | 2023-06-01T21:35:27 | 0 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/watson-clinic-program-offers-financial-help-for-breast-cancer-patients/70270659007/ |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Drug Enforcement Administration is shedding light on a new widespread fraud scheme to help people protect their identity and money.
According to the administration, scammers call people and impersonate DEA agents to obtain confidential information such as social security numbers and bank accounts.
The DEA said scammers call victims and say that their name was used to rent a vehicle, which was stopped at the border containing many drugs.
The caller then asks the person to verify their social security number, or they say the person's bank account was compromised. In some cases, callers have also threatened victims with a possible arrest for the fictional drug seizure.
Victims have reported that the scammers are spoofing legitimate DEA phone numbers and sending photos of actual law enforcement photo ID badges to make the fraud scheme more believable.
A doctor from Heber Springs was the most recent caller to report the scam to the DEA tip line.
To identify a scam call situation, the DEA said scammers may:
- Use an aggressive tone and refuse to leave a message with anyone other than the targeted victim
- Threaten arrest and in the case of doctors/pharmacists, threaten to cancel their DEA registration number
- Demand thousands of dollars via wire transfer or in the form of untraceable gift card numbers the victim is told to provide over the phone
- Ask for personal information, like social security number and date of birth
- Reference National Provider Identifier numbers and/or state license numbers when calling a medical practitioner. They also may claim that patients are making accusations against that practitioner
Anyone who has received a scam call claiming to be with the DEA is asked to report the incident to the FBI here. The Federal Trade Commission also takes reports here.
DEA personnel will never contact members of the public or medical practitioners by telephone to demand money or any other form of payment. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/dea-warns-of-scammers/91-15d9a265-6ca9-4026-917e-b110e7a5a8b7 | 2023-06-01T21:38:56 | 0 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/dea-warns-of-scammers/91-15d9a265-6ca9-4026-917e-b110e7a5a8b7 |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Addressing needs in Arkansas communities, THV11 announced this week that in its first round of grants in 2023, three local organizations have been awarded grants from the TEGNA Foundation – a part of THV11’s parent company, TEGNA.
Within these grants, which together totaled $14,000, the TEGNA Foundation and THV11 supported organizations that help in areas of early literacy, food insecurity, and childhood trauma recovery.
Awarded this year were AR Kids Read, Arkansas Resource Conservation & Development Council, and The Centers for Youth & Families.
THV11 General Manager Marty Schack said, “We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve our community in this way and look forward to the ways these funds will help those organizations further the wellbeing of Arkansans.”
AR Kids Read was founded in 2012 and provides elementary students reading below grade level with trained tutors. Specifically, the grant will support the nonprofit’s Literacy Playground which promotes early literacy skills.
Another grant will support an AmeriCorps state program hosted by the Arkansas Resource Conservation & Development Council called Full Circle FarmCorps. Its mission is to confront food insecurity with nutrition education, community gardening, and outreach.
Finally, the grant awarded to The Centers for Youth & Families will support its therapeutic foster program which provides care and specialized training for foster children who have significant emotional, behavioral, social, or medical needs.
THV11’s mission is to make Arkansas a better place by working together. Its longstanding “This Is Home” brand is widely recognized as being community-focused, and the station thanks the many organizations that applied for this round of grants.
To learn more about the TEGNA Foundation and how to apply for a grant, visit this link.
About TEGNA
TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) is an innovative media company that serves the greater good of our communities. Across platforms, TEGNA tells empowering stories, conducts impactful investigations and delivers innovative marketing solutions. With 64 television stations in 51 U.S. markets, TEGNA is the largest owner of top 4 network affiliates in the top 25 markets among independent station groups, reaching approximately 39 percent of all television households nationwide. TEGNA also owns leading multicast networks True Crime Network, Twist and Quest. TEGNA offers innovative solutions to help businesses reach consumers across television, digital and over-the-top (OTT) platforms, including Premion, TEGNA’s OTT advertising service. For more information, visit www.TEGNA.com. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/thv11-tegna-foundation-grants-arkansas-organizations/91-ea280607-e014-459d-a871-cb6f9bad50df | 2023-06-01T21:39:02 | 1 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/thv11-tegna-foundation-grants-arkansas-organizations/91-ea280607-e014-459d-a871-cb6f9bad50df |
GARY — The Gary Community School Corp. is offering a free enrichment program this summer. From June 5-29, K-5 students within the district can engage in learning experiences regarding various academic, cultural and recreational activities intended to help students improve their skills and knowledge in different areas.
Sessions run 12-2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The program will be held at Glen Park Academy, McCullough Academy, and Williams Elementary. The program is free and does not require enrollment in summer school. Capacity is limited.
For more information, parents and students can contact their local school or visit the Gary Community School Corporation website at garyschools.org. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/education/elementary-student-summer-enrichment-program-to-be-launched-in-gary-schools/article_de80831a-009a-11ee-9e0b-07a7f78bf5b3.html | 2023-06-01T21:41:27 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/education/elementary-student-summer-enrichment-program-to-be-launched-in-gary-schools/article_de80831a-009a-11ee-9e0b-07a7f78bf5b3.html |
ST. JOHN — For senior class President Victoria Olabinton, the Class of 2023 at Lake Central High School faced and survived three challenges: COVID-19, e-learning and senior year.
Principal Erin Novak had some stirring advice for them at Wednesday’s commencement exercise in the school gym: “Welcome to the next chapter of your life.”
Novak said the seniors “tapped into their bravery and fortitude” when faced with challenges. “Let that adversity be your motivation. Do not let anything stop you. Go out there and chase your dreams.”
The school listed 739 students receiving diplomas, with more than 500 continuing their education at a post-secondary institution.
Superintendent Lawrence Veracco urged graduates to “stay focused on what you can control” and not be preoccupied with comparing what they have to what others do.
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Veracco also encouraged graduates to develop an optimistic mindset: “Focus on what we learn from setbacks and move on. You have the power to impact the world. Enjoy your gifts.”
The graduating class presented several gifts to the school, including a lounge on the third floor.
Joanna Kouros, one of two student speakers, said graduates will not measure time in class hours, but “we will remember the relationships we formed and the times we spent together.”
Christian Mason, the other student speaker, used the word "pride" to demonstrate the class’s attributes. These included integrity, discipline and excitement.
“Carry your pride with you, wherever you go,” Mason said. “Go through life excited.”
Kevin Aharrah, a magna cum laude graduate, will continue his studies at the University of Alabama, majoring in computer studies. “This is the last real day of high school,” he said. “I’m excited to see what happens next.
“I want to wish my classmates good luck, wherever they go.”
Reagan Sideris, who collaborated on the class video, will study film and video production at Purdue University West Lafayette. “I don’t think I realized how time has flown by,” she said. “I’ll miss all my classmates.”
Kami Golec plans to take a gap year, taking time away from the regular classroom to work, volunteer and intern. Graduation, she said, “came really fast. It’s crazy.”
Golec encouraged her classmates to “make the most of your time together.”
Olivia Klein intends to study speech pathology at Purdue downstate. “I’m excited and scared,” she confessed.
Klein wants her classmates to “live in the moment and make all the memories they can.”
With an eye toward medical school, Joseph Iannocci will study neuroscience at Indiana University at Bloomington. “Today feels good and I’m excited,” he said, encouraging his classmates to “pursue your dreams.”
Tyler Schmidt is also thinking down the line about medical school, planning to study biology at Purdue West Lafayette. “It feels good to be here with all my friends. This is our last dance.”
Schmidt encouraged his classmates to “be yourself, be proud.”
Summa cum laude graduate Nora Markley will study pharmacy, also at Purdue West Lafayette. “I feel a little stressful but excited,” she said. ”There’s a lot of people, a lot of things leading up to this day.”
And to her fellow graduates, she said: “It’s been a pleasure being your classmate.”
Markley also learned in high school the need for “balancing school and having fun,” which she believes she accomplished.
From the Lake Central Science Olympiad team, Madeline Mansueto will study genetics at Purdue West Lafayette. “I’m excited I made it this far,” she said.
Mansueto learned that “it’s important to make priorities and then follow them. I’ve had a wonderful four years and so happy to see what happens next.”
Michaela Thomas will pursue psychology at Purdue Northwest’s Hammond campus. High school has “been stressful, getting ready for this time,” but she counsels her classmates to “do what makes you happy.”
Hannah Huiseman is among the LC grads headed for the military. She is already in the Indiana National Guard. “I had boot camp last year, and this year was my second year of training,” she said. “I’m just glad to be out of here.”
Her advice to classmates: “Do your homework, which I never did.”
Huiseman’s life lesson from high school was “don’t let people drive you down. Just keep doing it.”
Madelyn Porter will study nursing at PNW in Hammond. "I’m excited and ready to be done with high school,” she said. But one lesson she learned in high school is that “hard work goes a long way.” | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/dyer/lc-grads-urged-to-not-compare-themselves-to-others/article_88789936-008f-11ee-a847-fb527a04f285.html | 2023-06-01T21:41:33 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/dyer/lc-grads-urged-to-not-compare-themselves-to-others/article_88789936-008f-11ee-a847-fb527a04f285.html |
The Wisconsin Humane Society has announced the Safe Harbor Humane Society in Kenosha has now been officially acquired by WHS, and as of Thursday is now the WHS Kenosha Campus.
WHS was approached in fall 2022 by leadership at Safe Harbor on how to ensure the continuation of animal sheltering and other services in the Kenosha community. Safe Harbor faced economic challenges that threatened the immediate future of its work. WHS and Safe Harbor have worked together over several months to solidify plans for the acquisition.
WHS officials said they were working to make the transition as smooth as possible for staff and volunteers, which includes substantial training over the next few weeks.
To make taht possible, the WHS Kenosha Campus will pause its adoption program effective on Friday, June 2, through Sunday, June 25. Animals ready for adoption will be transferred to other WHS locations for placement during that time.
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The temporary suspension of adoptions will permit extensive staff training, database integration, deep cleaning of the facility, as well as an opportunity to reconfigure spaces for animal housing, storage, and for other uses. Stray intake and animal redemption will continue uninterrupted in Kenosha throughout the project.
Both WHS and Safe Harbor were committed to finding a home for every treatable and safe animal, no matter how long it takes, and WHS emphasized that approach will continue under the new partnership.
In addition, the organizations expect the acquisition will bring more resources for medical and behavioral care to animals in Kenosha County. WHS is hiring new positions to support the expanded work, including two veterinarians and a certified veterinary technician.
There are no plans to lay off staff or reduce pay. For more information visit www.wihumane.org/mergerfaqs. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/adoptions-temporarily-pause-at-former-safe-harbor-as-staff-training-gets-underway/article_344e3cb6-009f-11ee-bdc1-4b6f297d47a5.html | 2023-06-01T21:42:19 | 0 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/adoptions-temporarily-pause-at-former-safe-harbor-as-staff-training-gets-underway/article_344e3cb6-009f-11ee-bdc1-4b6f297d47a5.html |
A 32-year-old Kenosha man is facing charges after allegedly accidentally shooting a woman with a firearm.
Deshalon W. Hill was charged Thursday with felony first-degree recklessly endangering safety along with multiple misdemeanors including operating a firearm while intoxicated.
Hill was scheduled to make his initial appearance at Intake Court Thursday afternoon.
Criminal complaint
Kenosha Police officers responded to the 4900 block of 42nd Avenue around 10 p.m. Tuesday for a report of a woman shot in a leg. A responding officer spoke with the woman and and observed what appeared to be blood coming from her right calf.
Emergency responders with the Kenosha Fire Department also responded to help treat the woman who was eventually placed in an ambulance. The woman was later taken to an area hospital for treatment for embedded shrapnel.
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The woman, according to the criminal complaint, initially didn't wish to make a complaint. However, while at the hospital an officer reportedly learned that Hill admitted to accidentally discharging his firearm, which struck the woman in the leg.
The woman, according to the complaint, also described how how she and Hill had gotten into an argument. Hill then reportedly took out the firearm, racked the slide back and attempted to intimidate her with it. The woman said she and Hill had been staying together for the last month and believed he was intoxicated at the time he allegedly discharged the firearm.
The woman reportedly said she assisted Hill in trying to hide the firearm.
A search warrant was obtained and the suspected firearm was found inside the residence.
Mugshots: Kenosha County criminal complaints from May 27-30
Arionna L. Ballewske
Arionna L. Ballewske, 18, of Kenosha, faces charges of intimidation of a victim (domestic abuse), battery, disorderly conduct, and criminal damage to property.
Mensah A. Bonman Jr.
NO PHOTO AVAILABLE
Mensah A. Bonman Jr., 24, of Rison, Alaska, faces charges of substantial battery (intend bodily harm), second degree recklessly endangering safety, and disorderly conduct.
Andrew Bracy
Andrew Bracy, 44, of Kenosha, faces charges of probation and parole, bail jumping, and criminal trespass to dwelling.
Jontaz Malik Darden
Jontaz Malik Darden, 26, of Kenosha, faces charges of probation and parole, battery or threat to judge/prosecutor/officer (aggravated assault), and resist/obstruct causing substantial bodily harm/soft tissue injury.
Jordon Namone Dickerson
Jordon Namone Dickerson, 20, of Pleasant Prairie, faces charges of stalking, and bail jumping.
Nathan Paul Ernst
Nathan Paul Ernst, 19, of Silver Lake, faces charges of second degree recklessly endangering safety, bail jumping, and disorderly conduct.
David Calvin Kinley
David Calvin Kinley, 58, of Kenosha, faces charges of probation and parole, and retail theft (intentionally take less than or equal to $500).
Trenton Benjamin Kmiec
Trenton Benjamin Kmiec, 23, of Salem, faces charges of bail jumping, and resisting or obstructing an officer.
George William Long III
George William Long III, 58, of Kenosha, faces charges of bail jumping.
Deandre M. McMiller
Deandre M. McMiller, 32, of Milwaukee, faces charges of bail jumping, and resisting or obstructing an officer.
Jazmin Georgiann Mendoza-Anderson
Jazmin Georgiann Mendoza-Anderson, 19, of Pleasant Prairie, faces charges of bail jumping.
Michael Jovan Smith
Michael Jovan Smith, 30, of Evanston, Illinois, faces charges of vehicle operator flee/elude officer.
Deartay Demetrius Watson
Deartay Demetrius Watson, 24, of Kenosha, faces charges of disorderly conduct, bail jumping, possession of an electric weapon, and carrying a concealed weapon. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/crime-courts/kenosha-man-accused-of-accidentally-shooting-woman-with-firearm/article_68b46fb8-00ac-11ee-8c74-eff7241c38b5.html | 2023-06-01T21:42:25 | 0 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/crime-courts/kenosha-man-accused-of-accidentally-shooting-woman-with-firearm/article_68b46fb8-00ac-11ee-8c74-eff7241c38b5.html |
Friends, family and Hillcrest School staff kicked off the first day of June with a celebration of SOAR graduates Thursday morning in an outdoor ceremony.
SOAR, or Student Opportunities for Academic Results, is aimed at students who are unable to pass school with credits. They work independently toward completion of the four core classes, Work Keys Test and the Iowa Test of Educational Development.
Kenosha Unified’s Chief of School Leadership Bill Haithcock gave the address to students during the ceremony, reminding them to remember both their struggles and accomplishments.
“You might ask on this day of celebration. Why is this guy in front of you talking about struggle like this? I’ll tell you why: Because I believe that if you look closely, instances of struggle are often followed by something incredibly worthy of accomplishment and celebration,” Haithcock said. “People fall, but they get up. We should celebrate that. People make mistakes, but they learn. I think we should celebrate that too.”
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Haithcock said the struggles are “part of the journey.”
“It’s a beautiful thing to remember all the great memories from your K-12 career, because I bet they are countless,” Haithcock said. “However, I ask that you also pay attention to the struggles that you had along the way. Because without the lessons that were born in struggles, you could never accomplish the greatness that lies within you. It’s all part of your journey. You can’t change it, but you can learn from it.”
Giving the student address Thursday morning was Misael Espinoza Garcia, who will attend Gateway Technical College for welding.
“A bunch of people thought I wasn’t going to do anything in my life,” he said. “And now look at me, I’m giving a speech at graduation.”
Garcia shared fond memories from his time at Hillcrest, including lessons his sophomore social studies teacher helped to make relatable, community service with Meals on Wheels and the College Expo.
“My friends and I went in (to the expo) with very low expectations, but at the end of the event we left with a whole different perspective and view on college,” Garcia said.
Awards
A portion of the ceremony was dedicated to student honors, including awards from advisory teachers to their students.
Some students were also recognized with Circle of Courage Awards in the areas of Belonging, Independence, Mastery and Generosity during the ceremony.
Natalie Davis was presented with the Circle of Courage Belonging Award; De’Marquashja Langston received the Circle of Courage Independence Award, Stacey Foreman received the Circle of Courage Mastery Award; and Calypso Davis was presented the Circle of Courage Generosity Award.
Jaylen James was honored as Student of the Year, chosen by Bridge Program staff. They select a student who has demonstrated excellence in all four quadrants of the Circle of Courage.
Dana Ballewske was the recipient of the Courage to Care award.
The ceremony also recognized 15 Phoenix Project students who were unable to attend graduation, but completed the requirements to graduate. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/hillcrest-recognizes-soar-graduates-in-thursday-morning-ceremony/article_e727eb10-0096-11ee-8175-1f3947fa8d02.html | 2023-06-01T21:42:31 | 0 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/hillcrest-recognizes-soar-graduates-in-thursday-morning-ceremony/article_e727eb10-0096-11ee-8175-1f3947fa8d02.html |
Tremper High School was put in a hold after Kenosha Police were called by a fake number alleging a school shooting threat Thursday morning.
Just after 9 a.m., the Kenosha Police Department posted on social media that they were sending a police response to Tremper High School after receiving a call from what they believed to be a spoofed phone number.
According to the post, a similar call from the same number was received in an eastern state, however officers did a walk-through of the school as a precaution.
The post informed families and parents that students were in a "hold," meaning they were in their classrooms continuing their scheduled class.
The all clear was given at 9:38 a.m. No threat was located.
"This will be investigated to the fullest extent and if the origin can be determined we will aggressively pursue charges," the post said.
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The post said police will continue to investigate the hoax call, and thanked students, staff, administrators and community members for their cooperation.
Parents and guardians of Tremper students received two phone calls informing them of the incident. The first call, around 9 a.m., told them about the "anonymous call regarding a school shooting threat," emphasized that no active threat had been found and requested parents not go to the school.
The follow-up call, at 9:30 a.m. informed parents of the all clear from the police department. A similar call from the same phone number was reportedly made to a school in Connecticut.
The call also warned about making threats, even false ones, against the school.
"We appreciate your support in telling your child that any form of threat against the school, staff or students will be taken seriously and disciplinary action will be imposed if they are guilty of such threats," the call said. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/swatting-incident-puts-tremper-high-school-in-a-hold-cleared-by-kenosha-police/article_cdc2ba72-00ac-11ee-9365-d30d515881f9.html | 2023-06-01T21:42:37 | 1 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/swatting-incident-puts-tremper-high-school-in-a-hold-cleared-by-kenosha-police/article_cdc2ba72-00ac-11ee-9365-d30d515881f9.html |
PHOENIX — Gov. Katie Hobbs announced Thursday that Arizona will pause issuing assured water supply certificates for new developments in the Valley relying solely on groundwater.
Arizona law requires developers to prove areas in an active management area have a guaranteed amount of water before the land can be sold for development.
But Hobbs said the Phoenix area's current water projections are legally obligating the state to now pause issuing new certificates for lots relying only on groundwater.
"This pause will not affect growth within any of our major cities where robust water portfolios have been proven to cover current and future demands," Hobbs said.
The pause won't hinder the estimated 80,000 undeveloped lots that have already obtained assured water supply determinations, Hobbs added. Certificates can still be obtained if the applicant proves the land has access to other supplies of water, officials said.
Thursday's announcement came as Hobbs unveiled the latest groundwater model projection, which shows the Valley not meeting 4% of its groundwater demand within a 100-year period.
The governor announced her administration was investing $40 million in federal funds for water conservation and groundwater management efforts.
Despite the uncertain projections made about the Valley's groundwater, Hobbs insisted that Arizona's water future is secure and sustainable.
"We are not out of water," Hobbs said.
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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. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/water-wars/gov-hobbs-shes-pausing-water-supply-certificates-groundwater/75-a658fdf2-dd84-47dd-a536-c7e23dd8cad7 | 2023-06-01T21:43:20 | 1 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/water-wars/gov-hobbs-shes-pausing-water-supply-certificates-groundwater/75-a658fdf2-dd84-47dd-a536-c7e23dd8cad7 |
BANGOR -- Just after Noon Thursday, Bangor's first responders responded to a crash where a driver struck a pedestrian at the corner of Main street and Union street.
Bangor police says a passenger car was making a left turn from main onto Union street and struck the person who was walking in the crosswalk.
The driver of the car told responding officers that they failed to see the man as they made the turn.
A 35-year-old male was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.
The accident is under investigation. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/man-seriously-injured-in-car-vs-pedestrian-accident/article_b9824842-00b7-11ee-bbdc-23132b36dfb6.html | 2023-06-01T21:43:24 | 1 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/man-seriously-injured-in-car-vs-pedestrian-accident/article_b9824842-00b7-11ee-bbdc-23132b36dfb6.html |
BANGOR -- If you frequent the Bangor waterfront, you may have noticed something out of the ordinary. More specifically, an art piece in the form of a six foot canoe attached to the Davis Brook stack.
According to the city of Bangor, "living water" is a Wabanaki-style canoe, designed by artist Steven Francis Hooke.
Hooke is the grandson of acclaimed Mi'kmaq Artist Carmen Hooke -- and is carrying on the family tradition.
He hopes that the piece will inspire others to protect the Penobscot, and keep it healthy for generations to come.
He spoke about his inspiration and the meaning behind the installation.
"So I came up with the idea to make a canoe to represent the traditional birch bark canoes used by the Wabanaki people, the Penobscot, all on this very river..."
"...Stainless steel will represent kind of the past... In the past you can't change it. Stainless won't rot or rust or anything and the skeleton of the frame is just regular carbon steel which will rust and develop a light patina that reflects the industrial use of the river that has kind of scarred the river."
The public is invited to join the official installation ceremony tomorrow at 3:30pm on site at the Davis Brook stack, behind the Maine Savings Amphitheater on the waterfront.
There will be statements from the artist, as well as a number of Bangor officials. | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/new-art-installation-appears-on-bangor-waterfront/article_80b79226-00bf-11ee-80b9-d716d0617717.html | 2023-06-01T21:43:30 | 0 | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/local/new-art-installation-appears-on-bangor-waterfront/article_80b79226-00bf-11ee-80b9-d716d0617717.html |
ATLANTA — Warrants for three people arrested Wednesday who work with a funding group that supports the protest movement against the future Atlanta Public Safety Training Center show their charges are largely tied to small-money purchases and at least one $48,000 money transfer with another charity that authorities allege appears like laundering.
The three people arrested include a 30-year-old from Savannah, 39-year old from Atlanta and 42-year-old from Atlanta.
Activists said the three people were organizers with the Atlanta Solidarity Fund, which has done legal advocacy and fundraising going back to the 2020 racial justice protest movements and 2016 counterprotests against white supremacists in Stone Mountain.
RELATED: Three people arrested in connection to support fund for police training center protest groups
The warrants outline several instances between the three people in which the charges allege "misleading contributors by using funds collected" through a registered group, "Network for Strong Communities" (NFSC) or "transfer and misappropriation of funds" to private bank accounts.
Those transfers largely appear to be smaller reimbursements for protest organizing or otherwise supporting the protest movement.
In the warrants for one of the organizers, they're accused of a $228.29 reimbursement to move a NFSC jail support hotline to a new phone plan and adding two new lines to the plan. They're also accused of reimbursements totaling $436.17 for a town hall meeting, $29.72 for the purchase of a safe off Amazon and $37.11 for the purchase of building materials.
Another of the organizers is accused of taking 26 reimbursement payments totaling $6,657.59 across roughly two years for expenses such as gasoline, forest cleanup, totes, COVID tests and yard signs.
The third is accused of reimbursements including $298.54 for mesh communications (a kind of private, small-scale WiFi network) and $115.80 for "purported camping supplies."
The largest figure - the only other one mentioned in the warrants - involves an alleged $48,000 money transfer from NSFC to another charity which occurred "the day after NFSC was mentioned as a funding source during a court hearing" and then later returned to NFSC, allegedly "appearing to launder the funds."
The Atlanta Solidarity Fund has called the charges "an attempt to cut off protestors from legal aid."
The Atlanta Community Press Collective shared a statement from the fund Wednesday saying: "ASF understands that with social resistance comes government repression. We remain committed to supporting anyone who is targeted, and challenging the violence and overreach tactics from the Atlanta PD and DeKalb and Fulton County legal system."
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr said the arrests were "about violence that occurred at the site of the future Atlanta Public Safety Training Center and elsewhere" and Gov. Brian Kemp said, "those who backed their (the protest groups') illegal actions are also under arrest and will face justice."
The warrants allege the financial activity goes to "fund actions in part of Defend the Atlanta Forest (DTAF), a group classified by the United States Department of Homeland Security as Domestic Violent Extremists," and that the accused "affirmed their cooperation with DTAF by providing material support in the form of payments, reimbursements to DTAF members through NFSC."
Protest groups have strongly disputed the "domestic violent extremist" characterization of their activities; authorities have arrested more than two dozen people associated with the protest movement over the last few months and charged them with domestic terrorism.
On Wednesday the Atlanta Community Press Collective reported the Atlanta Solidarity Fund raises money for "legal defense and bail support for first amendment protected activities."
The warrants allege the tag is based on "acts... stating their intent was to intimidate employees of the government and private companies into not accepting or completing tasks in and around the site of the Atlanta Police Training Center."
The acts "have included vandalism at offices and private residences; throwing Molotov cocktails, rocks, and fireworks at uniformed police officers; arson of public buildings, heavy equipment, private buildings and private vehicles; shooting metal ball bearings at contractors; discharging firearms at critical infrastructure; preventing access to private land; and several other violations of law," the warrant went on to say.
The Defend the Forest protest collective called the arrests an "attack" that "should concern all bail funds, all abortion funds, all travel funds for migrants, watchdog groups, all organized material support for people criminalized by the government."
More about the training center and its opposition
On Wednesday evening, a "Stop Cop City" rally was held outside of the DeKalb County Jail for the three protesters who were taken into custody. Signs such as "Mayor Dickens: Stop Cop City" and "Stop Cop City" were held up by those there in protest of the public safety training site.
Opponents of the future training center refer to it as "Cop City."
"Three members of the Solidarity Fund were arrested by the Atlanta Police Department and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation," organizer Kamau Franklin said. "The charges are false charges -- charges which are based on the criminalization of a movement against Cop City."
The arrests came ahead of a much-anticipated meeting of the Atlanta City Council on Monday that could see the final approval for the city's portion of the funding of the training center, which opponents call "Cop City."
The meeting will represent one of the last official hurdles for the project, which has cleared regulatory steps and legal challenges in DeKalb County.
While the Atlanta Police Foundation, a nonprofit that supports the Atlanta Police Department, is majority-funding the project through private donations, 11Alive reported in April that by the end of June the city has to write the police foundation a check for about half of an initial $33.5 million the city has agreed to provide -- that is, once the City Council approves the payment.
According to reporting last week by the Atlanta Community Press Collective, another, previously unreported provision of the funding agreement could mean the city is on the hook for another roughly $20 million.
It remains unclear if, at Monday's meeting, that other provision will be addressed by the council.
The construction of the facility is tentatively set to start in August on a portion of land in the South River Forest.
The protest movement began with semi-permanent treehouse encampments in the forest in December 2021, and mushroomed after the law enforcement shooting death of a protester, Manuel Paez Teran, in January this year.
Officials have said Teran first shot at a Georgia State Patrol trooper as a clearing operation of the encampments was ongoing, then was killed in return fire. Teran's family and activists have strongly contested the official narrative. The lack of bodycam videos - which are not worn by state law enforcement officers such as GSP troopers or GBI agents - has left unresolved what exactly happened.
Several activists in the last few months have been arrested and charged with domestic terrorism after property was damaged at the development site.
The plan is to build the facility on land - the old Atlanta Prison Farm complex - owned by the City of Atlanta and being leased to the Atlanta Police Foundation.
The protesters have opposed the facility on environmental and historical grounds, saying it would decimate one of the largest preserved forest areas in the city and desecrate historically Native American land of the Muscogee Creek people, who once lived in the woods and called it the Weelaunee Forest before being displaced by white settlers in the early 19th Century.
The project's backers - including the law enforcement community, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond - have argued it would improve training and community ties, framing it as an answer to police reform demands to eliminate contentious policing practices and reduce tensions between the police department and the public. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/atlanta-public-safety-training-center-cop-city-three-charged-financial-crimes-warrants/85-93a0de44-e442-4f2e-94e3-3e069d2d3406 | 2023-06-01T21:45:07 | 0 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/atlanta-public-safety-training-center-cop-city-three-charged-financial-crimes-warrants/85-93a0de44-e442-4f2e-94e3-3e069d2d3406 |
CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. — A Clayton County Police K-9 passed away after suffering a "medical emergency" at the Atlanta airport, according to the police department.
Last Thursday-- just before the Memorial Day weekend, the police department said K-9 Wade experienced the emergency while inside a patrol vehicle at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
Officers immediately rushed the K-9 to the nearest animal control facility, where a veteran told them he had died, according to the police department.
K-9 Wade was taken to a veterinary school, where a necropsy will be performed, the police department said.
The Clayton County Police Department is investigating what happened.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/k-9-wade-dies-medical-emergency-atlanta-airport-clayton-county-police/85-b827d03a-6db5-4cf6-bb82-164b63c18b03 | 2023-06-01T21:45:13 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/k-9-wade-dies-medical-emergency-atlanta-airport-clayton-county-police/85-b827d03a-6db5-4cf6-bb82-164b63c18b03 |
CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. — One person was shot Wednesday evening during an apparent road rage incident on I-75 northbound near the I-285 split in Clayton County, police said.
The person was taken to a nearby hospital for their injuries, although police did not clarify the victim's condition. Police said they do not have a suspect in custody at this time. The shooting happened around 6:55 p.m., police said.
A Georgia Department of Transportation camera in the area showed multiple Clayton County Police patrol cars near the exit ramp of I-75 north at Crown Road. The road is just a little over a mile from the Atlanta airport.
It is unknown what led up to the shooting. Police said the victim's description of the suspects is "very vague."
11Alive is working to find out more information about the incident.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/person-shot-apparent-road-rage-incident-near-i-75-clayton-county/85-e929e7fb-f469-451f-9f1c-cfc417b79810 | 2023-06-01T21:45:19 | 0 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/person-shot-apparent-road-rage-incident-near-i-75-clayton-county/85-e929e7fb-f469-451f-9f1c-cfc417b79810 |
ATLANTA — The Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning that elder fraud is on the rise and is urging families to take precautions.
In the FBI's latest alert, it said that seniors are often targeted "because they tend to be trusting and polite," according to a release, adding that the elderly tend to have financial savings, own a home and have good credit -- which makes them attractive to scammers.
About a sixth of Georgia's population is 65 years old or older, according to Census Bureau data. The FBI says the nation's aging senior population is racking up more than $3 billion in losses annually due to elder fraud.
Brian Levy, director of marketing and business development for Cambridge Caregivers and Manchester Care Homes, said the cost of these scams will climb.
"I'm surprised it's not higher," he said. "It is so prevalent and they're getting more and more sophisticated each and every day."
The FBI said the top three schemes involve scammers acting as fake relatives or officials. An explanation can be found below.
Common elder fraud schemes
Romance scam: Fraudsters pose as interested romantic partners on social media or dating websites and prey on lonely people.
Tech support scam: Schemers pretend to be technical support representatives and offer to fix a non-existent computer or phone issue. The schemers get remote access to the victims' devices and sensitive information.
Grandparent scam: Scammers pose as a relative, usually a child or grandchild, claiming to be in immediate financial need.
Levy explained that the scammers are actually recording voices to manipulate people and trick them into falling for the fake persona.
"With the elderly, especially with dementia, they get very paranoid and they don't want to tell their family they got scammed because they don't want their independence taken away," Levy said.
The FBI backed Levy's claim, adding that seniors are often less including to report fraud because they don't know how or may be too ashamed to after being scammed. It's up to loved ones to help give them confidence and offer support in navigating the situation.
Levy said if an elderly family member has been scammed, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) could help get some of the money back -- but it could take months or even years to recover the funds.
He said to combat scams -- the key is to educate and focus on prevention. This doesn't mean just watching bank accounts but being wary of what information their elderly loved ones are sharing and when.
"Please be aware of your elders that are online, whether on your computer and know what they're doing," Levy said. "It is very important to be vigilant. Scams, like I said, are becoming more and more serious. It is our responsibility and duty to protect (our) elder community."
The FBI has broken down data to explain just how such scams impact seniors. Those statistics can be found here. For resources on how to protect yourself and loved ones, visit the FBI's dedicated website.
How to report a scam
If you believe you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact your local FBI field office or submit a tip online. You can also file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
When reporting a scam—regardless of dollar amount—include as many of the following details as possible:
- Names of the scammer and/or company
- Dates of contact
- Methods of communication
- Phone numbers, email addresses, mailing addresses, and websites used by the perpetrator
- Methods of payment
- Where you sent funds, including wire transfers and prepaid cards (provide financial institution names, account names, and account numbers)
- Descriptions of your interactions with the scammer and the instructions you were given
Whenever possible, you should keep original documentation, emails, faxes, and logs of communications. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/senior-scams-elder-fraud/85-45dd06a1-461c-4e24-b5c2-d212d53073bb | 2023-06-01T21:45:25 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/senior-scams-elder-fraud/85-45dd06a1-461c-4e24-b5c2-d212d53073bb |
BASS RIVER TOWNSHIP — A fast-moving forest fire that started Wednesday afternoon is likely to burn through about 6,000 acres of Bass River State Forest before it is fully out, state fire officials said.
Smoke from the fire could be seen in portions of Atlantic and Cumberland counties.
"The fire was exhibiting extreme fire behavior, so that plays into us not being able to get our equipment in to safely direct-attack the fire," John Earlin, incident commander in the emergency response, said Thursday during a news conference held about a mile from the flames.
Earlin said the intense heat and compacted areas of forest limited emergency response to setting a barrier around the fire.
Dry weather is expected to impact the region and could fuel the fire for days, leaving roads closed and the immediate area on high alert, state fire officials said.
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By the time it's extinguished, the fire could cover 6,000 acres.
The fire reached 5,000 acres Thursday afternoon and was about 50% contained. No structures were considered in its path.
The fire was first seen off Allen Road about 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, Fire Warden Greg McLaughlin said. It started in a wildfire-prone area of the forest.
UPPER TOWNSHIP — A campground devastated by a large fire that torched close to two dozen cam…
Allen and Oswego roads were both closed. Stage Road was closed between North Maple Avenue and Route 679, and Route 679 was closed between Route 563 and Leektown Road.
Firefighters were on scene within about 20 minutes of the first reports, McLaughlin said.
On Thursday afternoon, crews were seeking to establish a perimeter around the fire to curtail the flames.
"We want to get our arms around it as much as possible," McLaughlin said. "Once we have our arms around the fire, then we can start to talk about how confident are we, in terms of that, holding the fire within this space. As we get more confident that the fire is going to remain in that space, then we start to look at containment."
Nearby, six structures and about 40 people at the Timberline Campground were threatened, spurring evacuation orders. The campground was still told to remain on Thursday afternoon, officials said.
Little Egg Harbor Township's Bob Kociban was at his campsite at Timberline when the fire erupted.
About 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, authorities began shouting over loudspeakers to evacuate.
"Me and a few other people were standing there and were like, 'This is pretty damn close,'" Kociban, 56, said of when he captured images of the fire as it began to be seen over the trees.
Record warmth, both for high and low temperatures, threaten to go down Thursday. The peak of the inland heat will be here and new data tells me that the shore's warmest day could be Thursday as well.
Not far from Kociban's camper was a home shared by Linda Michel and Art O'Brien, who were both ordered out of their residence about two hours later.
"We heard some sirens, and then we went out and looked, and we could see a little plume of smoke," said O'Brien, 64, of New Gretna. "It was real close to where we were at."
Neither O'Brien nor Michel had before been evacuated from their home for an emergency, he said.
"It was a little nerve-wracking, not knowing what was really happening, and how devastating a fire can be, as you see with some of the fires on TV. They're taking a lot of people's homes out, and quickly," O'Brien said.
State firefighters prepare for wildfire season by treating sensitive woodlands in the offseason through prescribed burns, a process in which fire is intentionally set in a controlled manner to remove elements, such as dry leaves, that could prolong fire.
The area off Allen Road where Wednesday's fire was had not been treated by prescribed burns, but a spot southwest of it was, McLaughlin said.
The flames Thursday were being guided by a path of dense woods and ground fuel, eventually leading to areas previously left vacant of dry leaves and grass through a prescribed burn.
Atlantic County officials warned residents of potential air quality issues related to the fire.
EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP — A detached garage that was on fire led to a nearby forest catching afl…
"Multiple fires may impact the air quality for Atlantic County residents for an unknown period of time, though there are no current alerts," according to a statement from Linda Gilmore, public information officer for the county. "Atlantic County public health officials remind residents to take precautions as wildfire smoke can pose a threat to those with heart and lung conditions, pregnant women, older adults, children, and outdoor workers."
Egg Harbor Township schools sent an email to parents Thursday saying they were keeping students inside due to reports of poor air quality as a result of the fire.
The stench of charred forestry met America Garcia at her home not far from Oakcrest High School in Mays Landing, followed by the sight of haze.
"I see a whole bunch of smoke everywhere, and I'm like, 'This has to be a wildfire,'" said Garcia, 36.
The effects became more apparent to her when she dropped her children off at the George Hess Educational Complex nearby, seeing adults outside who wore masks to hide their noses from the smell.
"I hoped the school wouldn't let the kids outside for recess," Garcia said.
WILDFIRE UPDATE: Allen Road Wildfire – Bass River State Forest
— New Jersey Forest Fire Service (@njdepforestfire) June 1, 2023
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is working to contain of a wildfire burning in the area of Allen Road in Bass River State Forest.
The wildfire has reached 2,000 acres in size and is 10% contained. pic.twitter.com/549DxmQLEn
While we have had decreased air quality due to the fires in Nova Scotia, this fire in NJ has caused more concentrated areas of smoke, such as the one circled, to spread across the southern part of the region. As winds shift southeast today, these areas of smoke may shift as well. pic.twitter.com/gvkFnkwdvj
— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) June 1, 2023 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/bass-river-wildfire-could-burn-for-days-officials-say/article_a30fbf1a-006f-11ee-93fb-730f0942d74d.html | 2023-06-01T21:47:41 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/bass-river-wildfire-could-burn-for-days-officials-say/article_a30fbf1a-006f-11ee-93fb-730f0942d74d.html |
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Following two reported bomb threats on Texas A&M's campus at 1:15 p.m. and 2:03 p.m., officials have issued an "All Clear" report.
The bomb threats were called in on the White Creek Apartments and the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility and authorities say that "no suspicious devices were found".
Authorities also say that White Creek Apartment residents and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility occupants to return to the buildings. Roadways are open and buses are set to resume normal operations shortly.
An investigation into the identity of the caller is underway by Texas A&M Police.
Also on KAGS: | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/code-maroon-issued-for-bomb-threat-at-tamu-nuclear-magnetic-resonance-facility/499-ebecd55e-d044-4f35-8326-f5d881dd9b2e | 2023-06-01T21:47:45 | 1 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/code-maroon-issued-for-bomb-threat-at-tamu-nuclear-magnetic-resonance-facility/499-ebecd55e-d044-4f35-8326-f5d881dd9b2e |
ATLANTIC CITY — A city man was charged with attempted murder after he stabbed a woman Thursday.
Emmanuel Pacheco-Pineda, 38, was charged with attempted murder, two counts of aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child. He is being held in the Atlantic County jail.
At 8:07 a.m., police responded to an apartment complex in the 3800 block of Ventnor Avenue. Arriving officers found a 26-year-old woman suffering from stab wounds, police said in a news release. Officer Thomas Gilardi administered aid until medics arrived.
Pacheco-Pineda emerged from the building and was arrested by officers Scott Sendrick and Jonathan Walsh, police said. Officers recovered the weapon used in the attack.
Three children were present during the attack, police said. They were evaluated on scene and released to the custody of a family member. The woman was transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, City Campus with injuries police said were not life threatening. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-man-charged-with-attempted-murder-in-stabbing/article_f6fea148-00b7-11ee-8a3b-2700ee27729c.html | 2023-06-01T21:47:47 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-man-charged-with-attempted-murder-in-stabbing/article_f6fea148-00b7-11ee-8a3b-2700ee27729c.html |
VIRGINIA – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine is speaking out on the debt limit agreement that could green-light the Mountain Valley Pipeline Project.
Kaine filed an amendment to remove that piece from the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
The deal would approve the remaining permits for the controversial pipeline.
Kaine said he’s concerned about what that could bring.
“People will try to buy Congress off, and members of Congress thinking about routes will look at real estate and say, ‘Well, here’s a county where nobody votes for me, let’s put the pipeline through there,’” Kaine said. “The pipeline project isn’t built in the air, it involves taking people’s land.” | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/01/sen-tim-kaine-speaks-against-debt-limit-agreement-pipeline-project/ | 2023-06-01T21:47:59 | 1 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/01/sen-tim-kaine-speaks-against-debt-limit-agreement-pipeline-project/ |
BALTIMORE — Baltimore City Public Schools without air conditioning will dismiss early on Friday, June 2.
This is due to the forecasted high temperatures.
The district office and schools with air conditioning will remain open on the regular schedule.
This early dismissal comes 11 days before the end of the school year, as the last day of school is scheduled for June 13.
For a full list of schools without air conditioning and dismissal times, click here.
Due to the forecasted high temperatures tomorrow, Friday, June 2, schools without air conditioning will dismiss early. The district office and schools with A/C will remain open on the regular schedule. For a list of schools without air conditioning and dismissal times, visit… pic.twitter.com/VkIG2wAOkl
— Baltimore City Public Schools (@BaltCitySchools) June 1, 2023 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/baltimore-city-public-schools-without-a-c-will-dismiss-early-on-june-2 | 2023-06-01T21:51:57 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/baltimore-city-public-schools-without-a-c-will-dismiss-early-on-june-2 |
BALTIMORE — There are at least 115 homicide investigations in Baltimore this year.
Those attacks don't just hurt families, they fracture communities.
Now city leaders hope their first-ever Peace Mobile will help heal those wounds.
RELATED: City leaders bringing Peace Mobile to Baltimore to help heal communities
It's a bus that brings resources into neighborhoods following a traumatic event.
They include counselors and group therapy sessions, as well as creative spaces where people can express their feelings.
The bus's first focus, helping parts of Frankford, Hollander Ridge, and Pulaski in Northeast Baltimore.
City leaders say they'll use data from 211, 311, and 911 to figure out the greatest areas of need.
"211 tells us what social supports people need. 311 tells us what quality of life issues a neighborhood is encountering. And 911 data tells us what emergency situations have happened in those neighborhoods," said MONSE Director Shantay Jackson.
The Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, or MONSE, is overseeing the bus.
They say it's not a one size fits all.
The services offered are curated on a case by case basis to meet the needs of a specific community in that moment. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/mayor-scott-unveils-new-baltimore-peace-mobile | 2023-06-01T21:52:03 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/mayor-scott-unveils-new-baltimore-peace-mobile |
TOWSON, Md. — One is a squirt gun and the other in the real thing.
Can you tell the difference?
Well, police may not be able to and that’s why they’re concerned about the "Assassin Game."
“It’s where the youth are going around with (what) they say are squirt guns and they are "assassinating each other,” explained Baltimore County Police Det. Trae Corbin, “This is very dangerous and hazardous to themselves and law enforcement.”
Just last month, police warned of such a game involving Manchester Valley High seniors after a report of an armed man turned out to be a teen with a very real looking water pistol.
Last year in Westminster, police were confronted with a different sort of competition involving high school students, which put public safety at risk.
The Orbeez Challenge, as it was called, found participants using frozen, water-filled gel pellets, which raised the stakes.
RELATED: Water pellet assaults in Westminster
“They’re actually hurting people,” reflected Westminster Police Capt. Jeffrey Schuster, “They’re causing bruising. They sting just like a BB gun would and, yes, they could cause injuries.”
While some parents of students involved in traditional water wars at the time downplayed the threat.
“It’s a senior thing,” Steve Potorti told us, “It’s four on four water wars. It goes week to week. Basically, they have to eliminate their other team and videotape it.”
There is always a chance fake guns could be mistaken for authentic ones with real consequences.
“There’s other ways to relieve stress and, just again, parents just sit down and have a conversation with your children,” said Corbin, “Let them know not everybody knows that you guys are playing a game and something may come out as an "assassination" and to us, we think, as law enforcement, that there’s a potential threat.” | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/teens-urged-to-stop-assassin-game-water-guns-can-look-like-real-weapons | 2023-06-01T21:52:09 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/teens-urged-to-stop-assassin-game-water-guns-can-look-like-real-weapons |
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The State Treasurer’s Office takes over the Maryland 529 College Savings Plan today.
Account holders and the Maryland 529 prepaid trust have been going back and forth for months over interest payments.
The trust sent out statements at the end of 2021 with some accounts showing their money doubled since they opened it.
Then the prepaid trust froze accounts and only allowed people to access what they put in while their accounts were being recalculated.
The legislature stepped in and decided to give the college savings plan to the treasurer’s office.
Since Treasurer Dereck Davis knew he was taking over Maryland 529, his office started working with current employees and the board to figure out what the issue was.
He found a miscommunication over when interest payments would increase between the board and either the staff or the vendor.
“It got misconstrued from being from Nov. 1, 2021, forward to when the accounts were opened. Nobody wants to hear that, I get it," said Davis.
That miscommunication is the difference between thousands of dollars for those with prepaid trust accounts.
The account holders we’ve talked with all want their money restored to the balances they saw before the board froze them.
Treasurer Davis doesn’t know if that’s going to happen.
“What they wanna know is are they going to get their money and we’re going to find out, right now we’re working through it, we’re going through our processes but we’re going to find out exactly how much they’re entitled to and we’re going to make every effort. I’m going to bend over backward to try and get them that FAFSA amount," said Davis.
Parents with students in college now are worried about taking the money out to use for tuition until the issue is resolved.
Treasurer Davis says it’s a personal decision parents have to make but he’s working with in-state universities to alleviate some of the pressure.
“If they can work with these parents to give them time and withhold any penalties or negative consequences," said Davis.
He says most have been cooperative, adding that he can’t give an exact date for when his office will have this resolved.
“What I can tell them is we’re targeting having this ready to go by the start of the semester but I can’t give a date at this point in time," said Davis.
Account holders with general questions can direct them to the treasurer’s office.
Intuition or T. Rowe Price will handle questions on specific information about your account.
The treasurer promised his office will be transparent throughout the process and is working diligently to get it revolved. | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/treasurer-promises-quick-resolution-as-he-takes-over-embattled-529-savings-plan | 2023-06-01T21:52:15 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/local/treasurer-promises-quick-resolution-as-he-takes-over-embattled-529-savings-plan |
Bill Dolan
Times Correspondent
HAMMOND — A judge sent an Illinois man to prison Thursday for fleeing police while illegally armed with a machine gun.
Senior U.S. District Court Judge James Moody imposed a two-year sentence on Levar Tyms, 20, of Country Club Hills.
Tyms pleaded guilty Feb. 15 to possessing an unregistered machine gun last year.
The government says Tyms was driving through Gary the afternoon of March 9, 2022, when the police department’s automated license plate reader system identified the black Chrysler 300 he was driving as having been reported stolen.
Two Gary police cars located the vehicle. Tyms fled in it at high speed onto the westbound Borman Expressway but lost control of the car.
Police said he hit two other vehicles before crashing into a drainage ditch on the north side of the interstate, near Indianapolis Boulevard in Hammond.
Tyms tried to flee on foot, but police soon captured him.
Officers searching the Chrysler found a .45-caliber Glock equipped with a switch, a device that converts the handgun from semiautomatic to fully automatic, and an extended ammunition magazine.
Authorities said Tyms admitted buying the gun with the switch on the street for $900.
Gallery: Recent arrests booked into Lake County Jail
Aaron Doeing Jr.
Age : 18
Residence: Hobart, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304714
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: FRAUD - OBTAINING PROPERTY
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Adam Hollingsworth
Age : 36
Residence: Ford Heights, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304719
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: BATTERY - SIMPLE - AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT OR PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICIAL
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Anastasia Clark
Age : 23
Residence: Crown Point, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304826
Arrest Date: May 22, 2023
Arresting Agency: Indiana State Police
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Anthony Peters
Age : 36
Residence: Chicago Heights, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304722
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Indiana State Police
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Cameron Mills
Age : 29
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304752
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: East Chicago Police Department
Offense Description: BATTERY - SIMPLE - TOUCH W/NO INJURY
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Candice Makiling
Age : 32
Residence: Griffith, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304770
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Indiana State Police
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Candice Shaw
Age : 40
Residence: Crown Point, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304771
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Winfield Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Charles Ward
Age : 31
Residence: Hammond, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304815
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE - PRESENCE OF CHILD < 16 YEARS OLD
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Colton Wilkey
Age : 26
Residence: Lowell, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304825
Arrest Date: May 22, 2023
Arresting Agency: Indiana State Police
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Damien Kent
Age : 35
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304794
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Daniel Gianoli
Age : 46
Residence: Lansing, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304788
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lowell Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Daniel Velasquez
Age : 27
Residence: Chicago, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304749
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: THEFT OF A FIREARM
Highest Offense Class: Felony
David McGuire Jr.
Age : 42
Residence: Riverdale, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304746
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: THEFT - (NIBRS FRAUD OFFENSE)
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Dessiree Reese
Age : 39
Residence: Lowell, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304791
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lowell Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE - PRESENCE OF CHILD < 16 YEARS OLD
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Devante Ricks
Age : 30
Residence: South Holland, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304709
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Devion Perry
Age : 25
Residence: Griffith, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304801
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Griffith Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - AGGRAVATED - MODERATE BODILY INJURY
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Devonte House
Age : 28
Residence: Dolton, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304720
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: RESISTING - INTERFERING WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT DEF. USES A VEHICLE
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Dimitri Person
Age : 30
Residence: Villa Park, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304748
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: POSSESSION - FIREARM - BY A SERIOUS VIOLENT FELON
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Eddie Turnage
Age : 59
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304803
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: New Chicago Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Edgar Hernandez Rodriguez
Age : 36
Residence: Lansing, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304808
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Munster Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE - PRESENCE OF CHILD < 16 YEARS OLD
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Emmanuel Rivera
Age : 41
Residence: Beloit, WI
Booking Number(s): 2304798
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: OWi
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Eric Rangel Jr.
Age : 27
Residence: Chicago, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304747
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: HOMICIDE - MURDER
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Fernando Mancillas Munoz
Age : 34
Residence: Hammond, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304797
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: HPDB
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Freddie Forsythe
Age : 49
Residence: Lake Station, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304779
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake Station Police Department
Offense Description: SEX CRIME - POSSESS CHILD PORNOGRAPHY (b) ENHANCEMENT
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Glen Johnson II
Age : 33
Residence: Lake Station, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304688
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: INTIMIDATION
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Henry Jones Jr.
Age : 58
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304760
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: East Chicago Police Department
Offense Description: OPERATING A VEHICLE AFTER DRIVING PRIVILEGES ARE SUSPENDED
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Jaime Najera
Age : 49
Residence: Schererville, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304793
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Schererville Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
James Webb
Age : 52
Residence: Chicago, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304751
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: FRAUD - DECEPTION - IDENTITY
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Jelani Pruitt
Age : 27
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304789
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: BURGLARY - PROPERTY - RESIDENTIAL ENTRY - BREAKING AND ENTERING
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Jennifer Mischka
Age : 38
Residence: Lansing, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304713
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Dyer Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Jermaine Wade Sr.
Age : 51
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304696
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: East Chicago Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Jerome Cannon
Age : 37
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304697
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: East Chicago Police Department
Offense Description: INTIMIDATION
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Jesus Barajas
Age : 30
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304727
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Munster Police Department
Offense Description: POSSESSION - COCAINE OR NARCOTIC DRUG
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Joshua Chism
Age : 28
Residence: Crown Point, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304783
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Crown Point Police Department
Offense Description: THEFT - PROPERTY - FIREARM
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Kenneth Jones
Age : 44
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304700
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Gary Police Department
Offense Description: CONFINEMENT; OWI
Highest Offense Class: Felony; Misdemeanor
Kirk Wright
Age : 37
Residence: Rockford, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304818
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Other
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Kurt McCammon Jr.
Age : 35
Residence: Hammond, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304795
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Cedar Lake Police Department
Offense Description: BATTERY - SIMPLE - AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT OR PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICIAL
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Kymari Cheeks
Age : 24
Residence: South Bend, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304733
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Indiana State Police
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Lisette Corral
Age : 41
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304690
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: FRAUD - FORGERY
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Louie Campbell
Age : 44
Residence: Munster, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304816
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Munster Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - AGGRAVATED - USING A DEADLY WEAPON; BATTERY - SIMPLE - AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT OR PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICIAL; DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Felonies
Michael Hill
Age : 34
Residence: Merrillville, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304809
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Merrillville Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE - PRESENCE OF CHILD < 16 YEARS OLD
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Michael-Anthony Kruse
Age : 30
Residence: Lowell, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304732
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: BATTERY - AGGRAVATED - W/INJURY
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Milan Tanasijevich
Age : 39
Residence: Schereville, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304726
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Schereville Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Monique Bradford
Age : 53
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304698
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: East Chicago Police Department
Offense Description: BATTERY - SIMPLE - TOUCH W/NO INJURY
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Montel Smith
Age : 29
Residence: East Chicago, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304753
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Gary Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Muhammad Najeeullah
Age : 51
Residence: Highland, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304792
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Dyer Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Nadarangua Jackson-Carson
Age : 19
Residence: Chicago Heights, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304687
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Naja Wilder
Age : 22
Residence: Blue Island, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304744
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: BATTERY - AGGRAVATED - W/PERMANENT INJURY OR DISFIGUREMENT
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Novae Gatewood
Age : 53
Residence: Hobart, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304693
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: POSSESSION - COCAINE OR NARCOTIC DRUG
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Paris Finney
Age : 35
Residence: Hebron, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304694
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: LACC
Offense Description: DEALING - COCAINE OR NARCOTIC DRUG
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Quintin Transou Jr.
Age : 37
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304721
Arrest Date: May 18, 2023
Arresting Agency: Merrillville Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Raymond Colburn
Age : 53
Residence: Crown Point, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304790
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Crown Point Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Rene Rodriguez
Age : 51
Residence: Hammond, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304814
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Robert Jones
Age : 54
Residence: Weeki Wachee, FL
Booking Number(s): 2304768
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Cedar Lake Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Robert Kirk
Age : 61
Residence: Highland, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304811
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Highland Police Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Robert Ramos
Age : 67
Residence: St. John, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304740
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Ronald Myers
Age : 57
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304804
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: THEFT - PROPERTY - POCKET-PICKING - $750 TO $50,000
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Semaj Reynolds
Age : 26
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304780
Arrest Date: May 20, 2023
Arresting Agency: Gary Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Misdemeanor
Theron Harris Jr.
Age : 21
Residence: Gary, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304724
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake Station Police Department
Offense Description: RESISTING - INTERFERING WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT DEF. USES A VEHICLE
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Travis Walker
Age : 38
Residence: Chicago, IL
Booking Number(s): 2304743
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Lake County Sheriff's Department
Offense Description: OWI
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Trina Weaver
Age : 39
Residence: Hammond, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304728
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Victor Sanchez
Age : 22
Residence: Hammond, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304766
Arrest Date: May 19, 2023
Arresting Agency: Hammond Police Department
Offense Description: WEAPON - POSSESSION - DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE (EXPLOSIVES) - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION
Highest Offense Class: Felony
Vincent Michalik
Age : 20
Residence: Merrillville, IN
Booking Number(s): 2304817
Arrest Date: May 21, 2023
Arresting Agency: Merrillville Police Department
Offense Description: DOMESTIC BATTERY - SIMPLE - AGAINST A PERSON < 14 YEARS OLD - BY ADULT
Highest Offense Class: Felony
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HAMMOND — Rieth-Riley Construction Co. is beginning work on Hohman Avenue that will require its closure between Sibley and Russell streets until Aug. 11, the city has announced.
The closure is for the next phase of the reconstruction of Hohman as Hammond anticipates significant residential and business development in association with the new West Lake Corridor commuter railroad, which is scheduled to begin full service in 2025.
“This closure allows Hammond to complete the Hohman Avenue reconstruction during the 2023 season and is essential to the $200 million downtown revitalization,” Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. said in the city's announcement. “We hired world-renowned urban planner Jeff Speck in 2018, knowing the West Lake commuter line is coming and the need to reinvent downtown.”
The project will transform Hohman from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction, with center median parking and curb-side parallel parking that allows for a more pedestrian-friendly downtown in accordance with the master plan Speck helped create.
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An artist rendering shows a reimagined Hohman Avenue, one of the focal points of the city's downtown master plan.
“The Hohman Avenue closure includes closing the intersections of Fayette Street and Rimbach, as well as the continued closure of Muenich Court,” City Engineer Dean Button said. "Russell Street will remain open east of the West Lake corridor to Stateline Avenue. The contractor will post detours for motorists. Northbound residents using Hohman Avenue are urged to use Stateline, Sohl or Calumet avenues.”
Sibley Avenue will be open only to car traffic during construction. Trucks will continue to be prohibited on Hohman south of Michigan and Sibley east of Stateline during the construction period. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/hammond/hohman-avenue-in-downtown-hammond-to-close-for-summer-reconstruction/article_004c0978-0097-11ee-9b00-f72df62f7f73.html | 2023-06-01T21:54:44 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/hammond/hohman-avenue-in-downtown-hammond-to-close-for-summer-reconstruction/article_004c0978-0097-11ee-9b00-f72df62f7f73.html |
The Northern Indiana Port District ranked second on the Great Lakes, according to a new ranking by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The national port ranking placed the Northern Indiana Port District, which encompasses the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor, private terminals and the steel mills that get frequent shipments from ore boats, second among the Great Lakes ports in cargoes. The Southern Indiana Port District, which consists of Indiana's two ports along the Ohio River, came in first among inland ports.
Indiana vaulted up the rankings after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stopped counting multiple ports separately and started lumping together all the ports along the Ohio River at the southern edge of Indiana and the 45 miles of coastline along Lake Michigan.
Last year, the Northern Indiana Port District on Lake Michigan handled 30.3 million tons of cargo like iron ore, steel products, wind turbine blades and beer tanks. It trailed the Port of Duluth-Superior, which includes terminals in Minnesota and Wisconsin, by 2.2 million tons. It was the largest Great Lakes port district by cargo volume in a single state and the 20th largest port in the country.
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The Southern Indiana Port District handled 24 million tons along the Ohio River, making it the 26th largest port in the country and first among all inland ports, far ahead of the 16.4 million tons the Port of Pittsburgh handled.
“It’s extremely gratifying to see the new rankings reflect Indiana’s sizable impact on this country’s maritime commerce and the importance of our ports,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb. “As governor of Indiana, my mission is to increase Indiana’s global competitiveness and our ports play a critical role by bringing the world to Indiana and connecting Indiana to the world. I am grateful to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for its ongoing efforts to modernize cargo data collection and recognize the significance of our ports.”
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Navigation and Civil Works Decision Support Center did the rankings based on tonnage shipping in 2021. It reclassified Indiana's ports on Lake Michigan and the Ohio River as north and south districts so they now reflect the full extent of shipments.
“This is the culmination of a decade-long effort to ensure Indiana’s robust maritime shipping industry is properly recognized on a national level,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “Indiana ranks 12th in the nation for waterborne shipping but we have never had any ports ranked among the national leaders until now. These rankings now fully recognize how much cargo is shipped through Indiana and elevate the ability of our ports to compete for new business, grant funding and global opportunities for Indiana.”
NWI Business Ins and Outs: Pierogi stand, Brown Skin Coffee and Alpha Family Resale opening; Ixxa and Dan's Pierogies updating
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NWI Business Ins and Outs: Unbeatable Eatables, DRIPBaR Crown Point, Taco Depot and Flashback Antiques open; Da Burger House closes | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/northern-indiana-port-district-ranks-second-on-great-lakes/article_97fe9e44-0096-11ee-b78b-27de7d019c70.html | 2023-06-01T21:54:50 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/northern-indiana-port-district-ranks-second-on-great-lakes/article_97fe9e44-0096-11ee-b78b-27de7d019c70.html |
NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. — A precautionary boil water notice was issued on Thursday for 670 homes in North Fort Myers due to a water main break.
The notice is in effect for neighborhoods off Orange Grove Boulevard and south of Lakeview Boulevard.
As a precaution, all water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth or washing dishes must be boiled for one minute. Bottled water may also be used.
The boil water notice could remain in effect for 48-72 hours until bacteriological testing by Lee County Utilities shows the drinking water is safe. | https://nbc-2.com/news/local/lee-county/2023/06/01/boil-water-notice-issued-for-neighborhoods-in-north-fort-myers/ | 2023-06-01T21:57:34 | 1 | https://nbc-2.com/news/local/lee-county/2023/06/01/boil-water-notice-issued-for-neighborhoods-in-north-fort-myers/ |
The Pima County Attorney’s Office says it will not pursue criminal charges against a Tucson woman who was arrested last month in connection with a fatal stabbing.
Melissa Ann Ortiz, 28, was arrested on May 2 on suspicion of second degree murder after Scot Lynn Booth, 42, was found fatally stabbed in a parking lot near West Prince Road and North Stone Avenue following a fight, a Tucson police news release said at the time.
A Pima County Attorney’s Office spokeswoman said Wednesday that no charges against Ortiz were pending and that the office does not intend to pursue charges against her based on evidence. The office would consider presenting the case to a grand jury if additional evidence in the case came to light, she said.
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No further details about the decision were provided.
In the incident, Ortiz and a companion were placing an order at a Dairy Queen pick up window when a group of men asked Ortiz for her phone number, according to a complaint filed in the Pima County Justice Court.
An unidentified individual persisted, and Ortiz decided to go through the drive thru instead of waiting for her food, the complaint said.
Ortiz was approached again at her car. Ortiz pulled a knife after being called names and being told something to the effect of, “what are you gonna do,” the complaint said.
The men grabbed at the knife, said a witness who also said he saw Booth get stabbed, the complaint said. Booth died later at a hospital.
Another witness said she saw a woman “bear hug and leg sweep the victim,” the complaint said.
Ortiz called 911, but declined to provide a statement, the complaint said.
Jamie Donnelly covers breaking news for the Arizona Daily Star. Contact her via e-mail at jdonnelly@tucson.com | https://tucson.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/charges-dropped-against-tucson-woman-in-fatal-stabbing/article_725d40f4-00ab-11ee-a71d-b7dade651778.html | 2023-06-01T21:59:58 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/charges-dropped-against-tucson-woman-in-fatal-stabbing/article_725d40f4-00ab-11ee-a71d-b7dade651778.html |
The scheduled road closure on Bismarck's 26th Street between Divide Avenue and Hoover Avenue has been postponed.
A 10-day closure for sewer work was to begin Friday morning. The city said it will provide further updates when the work is rescheduled.
The scheduled road closure on Bismarck's 26th Street between Divide Avenue and Hoover Avenue has been postponed.
A 10-day closure for sewer work was to begin Friday morning. The city said it will provide further updates when the work is rescheduled.
A crash involving four motorcycles and a pickup truck in Morton County on Memorial Day injured four people, two of them seriously.
Owners of the Fort Lincoln Trolley are seeking to continue the legacy of rail in Mandan by passing on their business.
No one was injured in a room fire that prompted the evacuation of a Bismarck hotel.
Mandan School Board member Heidi Schuchard is resigning, and the board is seeking letters from people interested in filling her seat.
ST. ANTHONY - Many rural cemeteries in the Mandan area are maintained yearlong by a committee, but there’s one that gets some extra care right…
Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/26th-street-sewer-work-postponed/article_511993a2-00ba-11ee-bc05-f3d07d57b9f9.html | 2023-06-01T22:04:12 | 1 | https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/26th-street-sewer-work-postponed/article_511993a2-00ba-11ee-bc05-f3d07d57b9f9.html |
Three California men face the possibility of decades in prison for allegedly robbing a Casper Walgreens and taking more than 3,500 opioid pills, authorities said.
Police suspect the men drove over 1,000 miles to commit the robbery and insinuated they had gun to take the drugs.
Curtis Green, Joshua Slaughter, and Charles Jemison, who are high school friends, made their initial appearances Tuesday in Natrona County Circuit Court. The three men appeared distraught -- pleading with the judge for bond leniency, rubbing their faces and repeatedly referencing their crime-free lives prior to being arrested.
“These are very serious charges, and you have no ties to our community,” Judge Nichole Collier told them.
A worker at the Wyoming Boulevard Walgreens reported Jemison, 23, entered the store on May 26, jumped behind the counter and robbed the pharmacy, taking a bag of Oxycodone and everything in the safe, according to a police investigator's affidavit.
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At the same time, Slaughter, 23, was watching to make sure no one saw Jemison jumping the counter and no one called the police, the affidavit states.
The pair then jumped in a getaway car, which police say was driven by Green, 20. The white Kia Forte sped through Casper before getting onto Interstate 25.
A Casper police sergeant later arrived on scene, the affidavit states. During the interview, one of the pharmacy employees reported he was pushed towards the back of the pharmacy, and believed Jemison had a gun.
“Once the safe was open, the male began taking all the Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, and Methadone,” the affidavit states. “...[The employee] saw the suspect male’s hand in his hoodie pocket and it appeared the suspect male was holding a gun.”
It was determined over 3,500 pills were stolen, which were worth $4,715.
The three men were ultimately apprehended in Converse County. They were transferred to the Natrona County Detention Center and interviewed at the Casper Police Department.
During the interview at the station, Green could not explain why they selected Wyoming to rob and admitted he had never heard of the state before this trip, the affidavit states. He stated he was going to school to be an electrician and “made a stupid decision” because he needed the money.
Jemison explained their idea for robbing Walgreens was inspired by an Instagram video, which showed them how to go for “hydros" at Walgreens, police said.
“[He] expressed to the group that they should go home, but they had driven 15 hours to get to Casper, so talked themselves into robbing a store,” the affidavit states. “They talked themselves into trying as they had never tried to rob a store and ‘it didn’t hurt to try.’”
There is no evidence that a gun was actually brought inside Walgreens, but officers found a small pistol magazine and rifle ammunition while executing a search warrant on their car, the affidavit shows.
In court Tuesday, Slaughter told the judge he had a baby on the way and has never committed a crime before. He has been a security guard for the DMV and welfare offices since he was 18, he said.
“I’m not a bad guy,” Slaughter said. “I just wanna get home to my baby’s mom.”
All three men were charged with felony aggravated robbery and felony conspiracy to deliver hydrocodone, oxycodone, and methadone. Assistant District Attorney Ava Covert told the court that authorities believe Jemison carried out the robbery and confined the workers in the store, which is why he is facing a third felony charge for kidnapping.
Green and Slaughter’s bond were set at $150,000. Bond was set at $200,000 for Jemison. They are scheduled to appear in court again on Tuesday.
What you missed this week in notable Wyoming crimes and court cases
This week's local crime and court updates from Casper Star-Tribune.
The Sublette County sheriff and a deputy are seeking to dismiss former gubernatorial hopeful Rex Rammell's lawsuit.
Listen to the final chapter of Late Edition: Crime Beat Chronicles that examines the circumstances surrounding a death in a New Jersey resort town.
Lorna Green faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of setting fire to the clinic last year.
A car being chased by police crashed into a concrete planter in downtown Casper, killing one person and injuring three more.
A special investigation by Lee Enterprises showed that of 105 agencies serving communities identified as diverse, 76 underrepresented the percentages of people of color by 10 points or more.
McCollum was arrested by park rangers on traffic charges. No charges have been filed in connection to the woman's death.
One witness believed he, and not the girl who was killed, was the intended target.
Authorities say the Mills police officer used a Taser and pepper spray on a man who had been filming a traffic stop. He faced up to 10 years in prison, but received probation.
Nina Webber has been cleared of allegations that she recklessly fired her rifle during a November elk hunt.
Gage Cordova told a judge he was sorry for pointing a gun at his estranged wife. During the search for him, police shot Cordova in the arm.
🎧 Reporter Karen Robinson-Jacobs discusses the racial makeup of police departments in relation to the communities they serve. | https://trib.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/police-3-men-drove-to-wyoming-to-rob-pharmacy-based-on-idea-from-instagram/article_c6828b10-00ad-11ee-bfbe-0ba179653240.html | 2023-06-01T22:05:39 | 0 | https://trib.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/police-3-men-drove-to-wyoming-to-rob-pharmacy-based-on-idea-from-instagram/article_c6828b10-00ad-11ee-bfbe-0ba179653240.html |
BLOOMINGTON — A 26-year-old Bloomington man has been formally charged with three counts of murder in the 2021 death of a 30-year-old man in Bloomington .
On Thursday, detectives from the Bloomington Police Department traveled to the Illinois Department of Corrections in Jacksonville to serve multiple McLean County arrest warrants to Osman "Gudda" McLaurin Jr., according to a Thursday news release from BPD.
McLaurin Jr.
BLOOMINGTON POLCE DEPARTMENT
The release said McLaurin was charged with two counts of murder with the intent to kill or injure; one count of murder with the strong probability to kill or injure; and two counts of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon (Class 2 felony).
McLaurin is already incarcerated on an unrelated McLean County conviction from 2020 in which he pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon (Class 2 felony). For that case, he was sentenced on May 6, 2022, to seven years in IDOC.
McLaurin's new charges stem from his role in the Nov. 4, 2021, murder of Geoffrey Rowry at 808 E. Washington St. in Bloomington.
Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington said in the news release that investigators had been working "relentlessly" on the case for two years to bring about an arrest.
"Bringing justice to the victim and the victim's family remains our highest priority," Simington added.
McLaurin's bond was set at $4 million with 10% to apply.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Detective Kevin Raisbeck at 309-434-2593 or at kraisbeck@cityblm.org .
Anonymous tips can also be left with the Crime and Intelligence Analysis Unit at 309-434-2963 and CIAU@cityblm.org or by texting "BPDTIPS" to 847411.
Despite perceptions of rising crime, theft has become far less common in recent years than it used to be. However, there are still hotspots where break-ins and burglaries are far more common than the typical American neighborhood.
Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph
Bryant Lewis
Bryant Lewis, 28, of Bloomington, is charged with home invasion causing injury, a Class X felony. His next appearance is Dec. 30.
Connor Wood
Derek Roesch
Derek Roesch of Saybrook was charged Thursday, Nov. 10 in McLean County Law and Justice Center with several counts, including:
-Two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, Class 2 felonies
-One count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon while on parole, Class 2 felony
-Two counts of unlawful possession of firearm ammunition by a felon, class 2 felonies
-One count of unlawful possession of firearm ammunition by a felon while on parole, class 2 felony
-Unlawful possession of cannabis with intent to deliver (greater than 2000 grams but less than 5000 grams), a class 1 felony
-Unlawful possession of cannabis (greater than 2000 grams but less than 5000 grams), a class 2 felony
-Unlawful possession of a controlled substance, psylocibin less than 15 grams, a class 4 felony
-Unlawful possession of methamphetamine, less than five grams, a class 3 felony.
-Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, a class A misdemeanor
Justin M. Mata
Justin M. Mata, 28, no address given, is charged with possession of less than five grams of meth with intent to deliver, a Class 2 felony, and possession of less than five grams of meth, a Class 3 felony. He was released on a $50,000 personal recognizance bond and his next appearance is Dec. 30.
Connor Wood
Marcus D. Wesley
Marcus D. Wesley, 36, is charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon in a vehicle (Class 4 felony), unlawful possession of cannabis (Class 3 felony) and unlawful possession of cannabis with the intent to deliver (Class 2 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Phillip Tinch
Phillip Tinch of Normal was charged Thursday, Nov. 10 at the McLean County Law and Justice Center with several felonies including:
- Five counts of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, more than one but less than 15 grams of a substance containing cocaine, a Class 1 felony.
-One count of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, less than one gram of a substance containing cocaine, a Class 2 felony.
Trisha L. Hanke
Trisha L. Hanke, 36, is charged with theft of over $10,000 (Class 2 felony). Court documents indicate she knowingly took $14,000 belonging to a Love's Travel Stop, in LeRoy, where she was employed.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
William B. Givens
William B. Givens, 49, no address given, is charged with unlawful possession of five to 15 grams of meth with intent to deliver, a Class 1 felony, possession of less than five grams of meth with intent to deliver, a Class 2 felony, possession of five to 15 grams of meth, a Class 2 felony, and possession of less than five grams of meth, a Class 3 felony. His next appearance is Dec. 30.
Connor Wood
David L. Oliver
David L. Oliver, 51, of Bloomington, is charged with predatory criminal sexual assault.
Kenneth E. Funk
Kenneth E. Funk, 27, is charged with residential burglary (Class 1 felony) involving an apartment in Lexington on Dec. 31, 2022.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Jordan R. King
Charges have been filed against Jordan R. King, 34, for violation of the Illinois Violent Offender Against Youth Act.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Holly M. Isaacson
Isaacson
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Kenneth L. Minton
Kenneth L. Minton, 51, is charged with aggravated home repair fraud (Class 2 felony) and theft (Class 3 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Tony L. Jackson
Tony L. Jackson, 50, is charged for violation of the Illinois Violent Offender Against Youth Act (Class 2 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Britley L. Hilger
Britley L. Hilger, 32, is charged with aggravated battery (Class 2 felony) after she supposedly punched a McLean County Detention Facility officer in the chest.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Jasmine L. Smith
Jasmine L. Smith, 31, is charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol (Class 2 felony) and five counts of endangering the life or health of a child (Class A misdemeanors).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Jackie S. Claypool
Jackie S. Claypool, 46, appeared for a Friday bond court hearing for two new cases which charged her for one count of burglary (Class 2 felony), four counts of forgery (Class 3) and one count of deceptive practices (Class 4 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Noah R. Demuth
Noah R. Demuth, 22, of Evanston, is charged with aggravated battery of a peace officer, a Class 2 felony, aggravated battery in a public way, a Class 3 felony, mob action, a Class 4 felony, and obstructing a peace officer, a Class A misdemeanor. His next court date is Feb. 17.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Brandon L. Parsano
Brandon L. Parsano, 39, is charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, a Class 2 felony. His next appearance is Feb. 17 for an arraignment.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Alexander N. Williams
Alexander N. Williams, 24, was charged Feb. 2 with the following:
3 counts of unlawful delivery of cannabis between 30 and 500 grams - Class 3 felonies. 2 counts of armed violence - Class X felonies. 1 count of unlawful possession of cannabis between 2,000 and 5,000 grams with the intent to sell - a Class 1 felony. 1 count of unlawful possession of cannabis between 500 and 2,000 grams with the intent to sell - a Class 2 felony. 3 counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon - Class 3 felonies. 1 count of unlawful possession of firearm ammunition by a felon - a Class 3 felony 3 counts of violating the Illinois FOID act - Class 3 felonies.
PROVIDED BY MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano
Carlos H. Sanchez-Solozarzano, 22, was charged with 1 count of criminal sexual assault, a Class 1 felony.
PROVIDED BY MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Jaylin S. Bones
Jaylin S. Bones was charged with four counts of first-degree murder stemming from a homicide in Bloomington last year. A McLean County grand jury also returned a bill of indictment charging him with attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery with a firearm (Class X felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Jordan R. King
Jordan R. King, 34, was charged with violating the Illinois Violent Offender Against Youth Act (Class 2 felony) a second time in under a month.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Dominique M. Banks
Dominique M. Banks, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated battery involving strangulation (Class 2 felony). The incident happened in October 2022 and involved one victim.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Austin T. Daugherty
Austin T. Daugherty, 29, was charged with burglary (Class 2 felony) after he entered an Avis Car Rental, 3201 Cira Drive, in Bloomington, without permission and with the intent to commit theft.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Sandra M. Lewis
Sandra M. Lewis, 77, is charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance containing MDMB-4E-PINACA, a synthetic cannabinoid, with the intent to deliver (Class X felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Samantha E. Morris
Samantha E. Morris, 40, is charged with aggravated battery of a peace officer (Class 2 felony) after supposedly spitting on a Colfax police officer.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Nolan C. Love
Nolan C. Love, 46, appeared in court Friday for a bond review hearing after being charged with aggravated domestic battery involving strangulation (Class 2 felony) on Feb. 26.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Nikkita L. Sandefur
Nikkita L. Sandefur, 36, is charged with unlawful delivery of a controlled substance (Class 2 felony) containing cocaine.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Katlin M.B. Wilson
Katlin M.B. Wilson, 32, is charged with aggravated identity theft (Class 2 felony) after being accused of fraudulently obtaining money exceeding $300 but not exceeding $10,000 from a 60 year old man.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Eli C. Garozzo
Eli C. Garozzo, 20, is charged with two counts of home invasion, a Class X felony, two counts of attempted armed robbery, a Class 1 felony, and two counts of residential burglary, a Class 1 felony. His bond was set at $200,000 as a 10% bond, meaning he must pay $20,000 plus fees to be released. His next appearance is an arraignment on April 13.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Tysean T. Townsend
Tysean T. Townsend, 35, is charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony), three counts of child abduction, aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer and obstructing justice (Class 4 felonies).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Curtis J. Byrd
Curtis J. Byrd, 31, is charged with two counts of burglary (Class 2 felony), two counts of fraud and two counts of financial institution fraud (Class 3 felonies).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Noral K. Nelson
Noral K. Nelson, 31, was charged with reckless discharge of a firearm (Class 4 felony) after he was arrested in connection to a shooting along the 1500 block of S. Main Street.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Charles J. Tankson
Charles J. Tankson, 23, was charged with burglary (Class 2 felony), theft and two counts of unlawful use of a debit card (Class 3 felonies).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Davis, Micah S
Davis was charged with 3 counts of arson, Class 2 felonies, and 3 counts of criminal damage to property, Class 4 felonies.
His next court date is May 5 at 9 a.m.
PROVIDED BY THE MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Livingston, Joshua D.
Livingston was charged with 2 counts of possessing stolen vehicles, Class 2 felonies, possession of less than 5 grams of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony, and criminal damage to government property, a Class 4 felony.
His next court date is May 5 at 9 a.m.
PROVIDED BY THE MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Kevin L. Ewen
Kevin L. Ewen, 42, appeared in a Thursday bond court hearing and was charged with aggravated battery (Class 2 felony), obstructing a peace officer (Class 4 felony) and two counts of resisting a peace officer (Class A misdemeanor).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Emmanuel K. Mpay
Emmanuel K. Mpay, 23, appeared in a Thursday bond court hearing following a grand jury indictment for two counts of criminal sexual assault (Class 1 felonies).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Ahmad S. Manns
Ahmad S. Manns, 19, appeared in a Friday bond court hearing and was charged with cannabis trafficking (Class X felony), unlawful possession of cannabis with the intent to deliver (Class 1 felony) and unlawful possession of cannabis (Class 2 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Dylan R Mann
Dylan R Mann, 31, appeared Friday in bond court following four grand jury indictments for two separate cases relating to aggravated assault and battery.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Tony L. Jackson
Tony L. Jackson, 50, was charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony), domestic battery, violation of an order of protection and driving while license revoked or suspended (Class 4 felonies).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
William R. Linden
William R. Linden, 79, was released Tuesday on felony burglary charges for trying to pass a forged check at Busey Bank.
Zadek U. Moen
Zadek U. Moen, 20, is facing six felony drug charges after being arrested by the Illinois State Police on Thursday.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Zachary T. Willis
Zachary T. Willis, 27, is charged with aggravated domestic battery by strangulation (Class 2 felony) and domestic battery subsequent offense (Class 4 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Cecily M. Sexton
Cecily M. Sexton, 39, was charged with two counts of burglary, a Class 2 felony; one count of forgery, a Class 3 felony; financial institution fraud, a Class 3 felony, and possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Tonisha A. Jackson
Tonisha A. Jackson, 27, was charged with aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, a Class 3 felony.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
James A. McConnaughay
James A. McConnaughay, 53, appeared in a Friday bond court hearing before Judge Amy McFarland. McConnaughay is charged with unlawful possession of 5-15 grams of methamphetamine (Class 2 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Jessica M. Longberry
Jessica M. Longberry, 38, appeared in a Friday bond court hearing before Judge Amy McFarland. Longberry is charged with burglary (Class 2 felony) and forgery (Class 3 felony).
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Barry D. Guyton
Barry D. Guyton, 26, was charged with two counts of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon (Class 2 felonies) two counts of unlawful possession of 15-100 of cocaine with the intent to deliver with one being a Class X felony and the other being a Class 1 felony.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Keon E. Spiller
Keon E. Spiller, 22, appeared in a Friday bond court hearing before Judge Amy McFarland and was charged with attempted escape after his jury trial reached a verdict.
MCLEAN COUNTY JAIL
Contact Mateusz Janik at (309) 820-3234. Follow Mateusz on Twitter:@mjanik99
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Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/charges-filed-in-november-2021-homicide-in-bloomington/article_260de05e-00c0-11ee-b5e8-cf625a953069.html | 2023-06-01T22:08:35 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/charges-filed-in-november-2021-homicide-in-bloomington/article_260de05e-00c0-11ee-b5e8-cf625a953069.html |
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Following two reported bomb threats on Texas A&M's campus at 1:15 p.m. and 2:03 p.m., officials have issued an "All Clear" report.
The bomb threats were called in on the White Creek Apartments and the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility and authorities say that "no suspicious devices were found".
Authorities also say that White Creek Apartment residents and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility occupants to return to the buildings. Roadways are open and buses are set to resume normal operations shortly.
An investigation into the identity of the caller is underway by Texas A&M Police.
Also on KAGS: | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/code-maroon-issued-for-bomb-threat-at-tamu-nuclear-magnetic-resonance-facility/499-ebecd55e-d044-4f35-8326-f5d881dd9b2e | 2023-06-01T22:11:51 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/code-maroon-issued-for-bomb-threat-at-tamu-nuclear-magnetic-resonance-facility/499-ebecd55e-d044-4f35-8326-f5d881dd9b2e |
SAN ANTONIO — A gas leak late Thursday morning prompted Fisher Elementary School to evacuate students to the outside while crews worked to repair the nearby gas line.
The incident occurred near Barrell Pass and Krie Trail in West Bexar County.
CPS Energy workers, fire crews and the Bexar County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene. The leak was a result of construction crews striking a gas line in the area, the sheriff's office said.
"The school staff did a great job of evacuating and ensuring the students' and faculty's safety," said Walter Ball, division chief with Bexar County ESD # 2.
He said one school occupant was assessed and treated for a heat-related ailment, but there were no other injuries.
Several heavy fire apparatus and ambulances were available on standby.
Other homes in a two-block radius also were evacuated. Air monitoring remains in place to ensure safety.
Traffic was diverted from the area while the repairs took place.
Students have returned to their classrooms, Northside ISD officials said.
CPS Energy released a statement on Thursday afternoon.
"Our crews are on site to make necessary repairs to damage to an underground gas line that was hit by a non-CPS Energy contractor. The natural gas service has been turned off to ensure the school is safe," they said.
This is a developing story. Watch for updates at KENS5.com. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/gas-leak-west-bexar-county/273-fec40891-57b3-4e94-8866-f5fee571575b | 2023-06-01T22:11:57 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/gas-leak-west-bexar-county/273-fec40891-57b3-4e94-8866-f5fee571575b |
TAMPA, Fla. — An adventurous and loving young man's life was taken during a day out on the water at Pine Key Island with friends.
Isaac McNair's family says he was a family man, who was quiet, but outgoing. They knew he was out on the water with friends on Sunday, May 28, but never expected to get the call he was missing.
"You know he was the baby," his older sister, Bianca McNair, said. "There was nothing we wouldn't do for him. There's nothing he wouldn't have done for us. So it's just hard."
Speaking only to 10 Tampa Bay's Angelina Salcedo, she said she spoke to Isaac the day before he went out with friends.
"He was like, 'We're going to the beach!' I said, 'You know what, have fun,' It's not the first time they've gone out on the boat. It was like their guy thing to do. To just go and have fun," Bianca said.
Isaac had texted his dad a around noon while he was out on Pine Key Island, also known as Beer Can Island. Lawrence McNair said he saw the video of him out on the water and finds comfort in knowing his son was able to share the moment with him.
"He sent the video at 12 and I think maybe 4, was when his mother called me and said, 'Have you heard from Isaac? I was like, 'No, what do you mean?' She said, 'Well, I called him, but he's not answering.' She let me know he was missing in the water," Lawrence said.
Being miles away in California, Lawrence frantically called Tampa police to see if they knew anything about what happened. They transferred him to the U.S. Coast Guard was were able to confirm his fear. Isaac was still missing and with the sun setting the search had to be called off until Monday morning.
"Isaac wasn't a swimmer," Lawrence said. "He wasn't a swimmer for sure and I'm sure he panicked. I was just thinking, 'Man, if I could have been there, what could I have done to, you know, to save him.'"
The family said the boat's anchor came loose and Isaac and two of his friends went after it to bring it back to shore. A current sucked them in. People who were on boats nearby were able to save his friends, but Isaac went under.
The Coast Guard spent hours on the water searching for his body and were finally able to recover him Monday morning.
"I didn't think that this was going to be so soon," Bianca said. "For me, it just it feels really sudden. It's so sudden."
The 26-year-old lost his life just 10 days after his birthday. In their solace, Isaac's family finds comfort knowing he died doing what he loved.
"Isaac didn't live a full life, but he lived his life to the fullest and he got the most out of those 26 years," Lawrence said. "I'm just so proud of him for that. I just wish he had more time."
The McNairs have received messages from those who were there that day and tried to help save Isaac. They're finding comfort in knowing he wasn't alone and people tried to help him.
They're working with the medical examiner to get his body transferred to Raleigh, North Carolina, which is where they're from. The McNairs are hoping to have his funeral by next Saturday and are fundraising for the expenses after this sudden loss. If you'd like to help them, you can here. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/man-drowns-off-beer-can-island-memorial-day-weekend/67-f51c5499-9e76-4415-844d-303521339a45 | 2023-06-01T22:12:03 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/man-drowns-off-beer-can-island-memorial-day-weekend/67-f51c5499-9e76-4415-844d-303521339a45 |
DALLAS — If a smile is the beginning of love, then tonight's Wednesday's Child,10-year-old CJ, is spreading love everywhere he goes!
"I'm kind and I'm loving, and I can do anything in my life to fulfill my purpose," he said confidently.
CJ wants to play left tackle in the NFL one day. He says when he makes his millions, he is going to make sure to help homeless people.
"He's very loveable. He's very kind. He will give you anything. You ask. He'll share it,” said Kennetta Harrison, CJ's CPS caseworker.
"She's really awesome and she's loving. She gives me love and is sort of like a mom to me," said CJ.
Harrison treats CJ like her own child, and it means everything to him. During the interview, he faced her and told her what she meant to him.
"Ms. Kennetta, you're like my mother. You're kind and loving, and I like that you'll give me anything. I just have to be good for you," he told her, as Harrison wiped away tears.
CJ knows how to make you feel special. When asked if he felt loved, he said our WFAA news crew had shown him love.
Like we said, this child knows how to make you feel special. His prayer for two years has been that someone will see just how special he is.
"I want any kind of family. As long as they give me love, I'm good," he said. "I want to be in a place where I have a family who loves me."
CJ really means it when he says he would be happy with any family. He wants parents who will show him love through the good and the bad. He longs to feel that security.
CJ has a tender heart and would love nothing more than to slide into the hearts of loving parents who will adopt him.
"I want him out of the system," said Harrison.
Until CJ's adopted, she continues to fight for him.
"He is my son. Until I'm able to get him to his forever family, he’s my son. I take care of him. I watch over him. I do what is needed for him."
As long as he knows he's loved, CJ will welcome any family into his life with a smile!
For more information on how to adopt CJ, please send all approved home studies to LaQueena Warren at LaQueena.Warren@dfps.texas.gov. Please remember to include CJ's name within the subject line.
If you're not licensed, please visit adoptchildren.org to find out more information on how to become licensed to foster and/or adopt or contact LaQueena Warren at 817-304-1272.
If you would like to read more Wednesday's Child stories, click here. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/outreach/wednesdays-child-10-year-old-cj-says-he-wants-to-be-adopted/287-6d8c4bb1-4cd8-4a52-8c2a-f8a99c188794 | 2023-06-01T22:12:10 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/outreach/wednesdays-child-10-year-old-cj-says-he-wants-to-be-adopted/287-6d8c4bb1-4cd8-4a52-8c2a-f8a99c188794 |
SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio Police officer has been arrested and accused of setting up a video camera to illegally record activity inside his ex-girlfriend's apartment.
The Bexar County Sheriff's Office has arrested Andres Puente, a three-year veteran of the San Antonio Police Department.
Puente has been charged with two counts of Invasive Video Recording.
His ex-girlfriend called Bexar County Sheriff's deputies to her apartment Tuesday night after she said she found a hidden camera device disguised as an electronic plug-in wall outlet extender. She told deputies that texts between her and Puente led her to believe that he had placed the camera there, according to the arrest affidavit.
Deputies got her consent to review an SD memory card found inside the camera device. They said it showed video of Puente setting up the device and using his phone to change camera angles. Video also showed Puente squatting down and staring directly into the camera, according to the affidavit.
Deputies said the video recordings also showed the ex-girlfriend and her young daughter partially clothed, then later showed the woman with a male guest. Both recording were made at a time when "the vicim believed she had a reasonable expectation of privacy," according to the affidavit.
The San Antonio Police Department said Puente has been placed on temporary unpaid leave, pending the outcome of the criminal and administrative investigations. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/sapd-officer-charged-illegally-recording-ex-girlfriend-secret-camera-apartment/273-52818288-7d9b-48ba-9ef4-38af040c184a | 2023-06-01T22:12:16 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/sapd-officer-charged-illegally-recording-ex-girlfriend-secret-camera-apartment/273-52818288-7d9b-48ba-9ef4-38af040c184a |
SAN ANTONIO — In celebration of National Donut Day, June 2, Shipley Do-Nuts is giving away a free glazed donut to each customer at all San Antonio locations.
National Donut Day was originally established in 1938 by the Chicago Salvation Army to honor women who served donuts to soldiers during World War I.
Shipley Do-Nuts are unique in that they have a hexagon shape that the company says creates a lighter, fluffier texture.
National Donut Day is on Friday, June 2, the donut shop is offering the free deal from 5 a.m. to noon.
Click here for a list of Shipley locations in the San Antonio area.
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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/shipley-do-nuts-offering-free-donuts-on-national-donut-day-san-antonio-texas/273-5ef9299c-927a-4ff9-b47f-baaa15558bc5 | 2023-06-01T22:12:16 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/shipley-do-nuts-offering-free-donuts-on-national-donut-day-san-antonio-texas/273-5ef9299c-927a-4ff9-b47f-baaa15558bc5 |
SAN ANTONIO — This summer, for the first time in recent history, the Texas grid does not have enough "dispatchable" energy to meet projected power demands. This means if every natural gas plant, coal plant, nuclear plant and reserve power battery power turns on at the same time, the state still couldn't cover peak demands.
The good news: Texas also has solar power arrays and more wind power plants than any other state. As long as the wind blows or the sun shines, the grid should be fine.
It also means that cloudy skies and windless days could be a problem, and predicting the weather is a lot more important. ERCOT CEO Pablo Vegas described the situation at a Texas Public Utility Commission meeting in early May.
"We are expecting to rely more on renewables during peak conditions than we every have before. As a result of this dynamic, this summer could have tighter hours than last summer with a higher risk of emergency operations. ERCOT may experience these tighter conditions after the 5pm peak (demand) as generation from solar units decrease as the sun sets," Vegas said.
On Wednesday, ERCOT released a new grid notification website that would include weather warnings as part of the new notification system. ERCOT named the notification system the "Texas Advisory and Notification System" or "TXANS" for short.
The new system has four grid condition levels: Normal Grid Conditions, ERCOT Weather Watch, Voluntary Conservation Notice, and Energy Emergency Alert.
The "ERCOT Weather Watch" alert would be issued three to five days ahead of an event that could affect the grid and would come out before ERCOT asks for power conservation from Texans.
"This earlier three to five day look ahead gives the public notification due of possible higher demand with an ask to keep an ear out should conditions change," Vegas said.
He said the updates would be released on social media but Texans could also sign up for updates on the site.
Vegas announced the notification system in a web press conference Wednesday morning. He also downplayed concerns about available dispatchable generation afterwards.
"There is not an active concern or a high probability concern of not having enough dispatchable generation, what we talked about when we discussed the SARA report for the summer was there were some very low probably scenarios...that there could be a shortage of dispatchable generation.
Still, Vegas said earlier in the month that the grid did face risks this summer.
"One of the differences between this summer and last summer is we are seeing the demand for electricity grow faster than the supply of dispatchable generation, so that is a growing risk that we are talking about," Vegas said at a PUC meeting in the first week of May.
Public Utility Commission Chairman Peter Lake also had concerns earlier in the month.
"On the hottest days of summer there is no longer enough on-demand dispatchable power generation to meet demand in the ERCOT system," Lake said. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-grid-summer-ercot-weather-watch-alerts/273-14c2261e-865f-4950-a25a-8e07f123ff7f | 2023-06-01T22:12:22 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-grid-summer-ercot-weather-watch-alerts/273-14c2261e-865f-4950-a25a-8e07f123ff7f |
SAN ANTONIO — Two teenagers in a stolen KIA led Bexar County Sheriff's deputies on a chase early Thursday afternoon.
The female driver was taken into custody, while the young man who was with her remains on the run at this time.
Deputies said they noticed the KIA being driven at a high rate of speed through neighborhood streets while disregarding traffic signals and began a pursuit.
When they tried to stop the driver, she crashed the stolen vehicle in the 3500 block of S. Zarzamora at Linares Avenue on the southwest side of town.
The two teens are facing charges of evading police and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.
This is a developing story.
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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/two-teens-lead-bcso-deputies-on-chase-in-stolen-kia-bexar-san-antonio-texas-car/273-b05e18c3-16ce-4871-85e7-ee2edbcea4b0 | 2023-06-01T22:12:28 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/two-teens-lead-bcso-deputies-on-chase-in-stolen-kia-bexar-san-antonio-texas-car/273-b05e18c3-16ce-4871-85e7-ee2edbcea4b0 |
BIG SPRING, Texas — World War II U.S. Army Veteran Carl Reid has asked the public to send him at least 100 birthday cards for his 100th birthday.
The Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home resident will be turning 100 on June 15.
Cpl. Reid served in the U.S. Army during World War II, entering active duty on Sept. 26, 1944, according to the Veterans Land Board.
During his time in the Army, he worked as a supply clerk, managing several clerical and stock handling duties. He was also a truck operator, transporting personnel, supplies and equipment.
Cpl. Reid received the Good Conduct Medal and the Victory Medal for his service.
Before the war, he was raised on a farm and became a farmer, growing cotton, corn and maize as well as caring for livestock.
Those who would like to help him celebrate the occasion can send birthday cards to the Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home, addressed to:
Mr. Carl Reid
Re: 100 for 100
c/o Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home
1809 N. Hwy 87
Big Spring, Texas 79720
For more information, visit the state veterans home Facebook page by clicking or tapping here. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/wwii-us-army-veteran-asks-for-birthday-cards-for-100th-birthday/513-6944fccb-34c2-441a-9b19-9af6bb633cf4 | 2023-06-01T22:12:34 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/wwii-us-army-veteran-asks-for-birthday-cards-for-100th-birthday/513-6944fccb-34c2-441a-9b19-9af6bb633cf4 |
The Ohio Supreme Court issued a ruling Thursday that preserves the efforts of abortion-rights petitioners behind a November initiative that would codify abortion access into the Ohio Constitution.
The Court’s 7-0 ruling upholds the Ohio Ballot Board’s decision that the proposed amendment can move forward as a single initiative. The initiative would guarantee Ohioans’ right to abortion and protect their individualized decisions on fertility treatment, contraception, miscarriage care and continuing their own pregnancy.
Abortion opponents had asked the court to force the Ohio Ballot Board to vacate their decision on the grounds that the proposed amendment was too broad for a single initiative. The complainants asked the court to rule that the protections could only be placed through a series of amendments, which would have caused the abortion-rights canvassers to completely restart their signature gathering process.
About the Author | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/state-supreme-court-rules-abortion-rights-amendment-can-proceed/A4R6EJMNPNDK5PADAAG3XWVOKQ/ | 2023-06-01T22:12:56 | 0 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/state-supreme-court-rules-abortion-rights-amendment-can-proceed/A4R6EJMNPNDK5PADAAG3XWVOKQ/ |
A partnership of health care organizations will use a national grant to better meet the needs of the rural Payette area, according to a news release from the Western Idaho Community Action Partnership.
WICAP won a national grant for more than $600,000 of funding and additional resources to address health disparities in Payette, the release said. Payette is one of 13 communities in the U.S. that were chosen for the three-year BUILD Health Challenge grant.
“As Payette is by far the smallest and most rural community to ever receive this prestigious funding and support, the community will serve as a model for addressing key health concerns around housing, behavioral health and access to health care for other communities in Idaho and across the nation,” the news release from WICAP said.
WICAP will use the assistance over the next three years to support its work with Southwest District Health, Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke’s health systems, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health and the Western Idaho Community Health Collaborative.
Intermountain Health, LEAP Housing Solutions, Payette city government and others will provide additional support, the news release said.
To address health disparities, the grant will work to increase access to, and use of, existing health care services and resources, with a focus on mental health and chronic disease. The project also will focus on social and racial equity and access to affordable housing in the area.
The grant will bring “national resources and opportunities” to Payette that will “lift the voices of the residents in co-designing the housing and services that they want and need most,” Saint Alphonsus Health System Director of Community Health & Well-Being Rebecca Lemmons said in the release.
“BUILD Payette will amplify the existing resources in the community and draw upon the expertise of residents to identify pressing health needs with innovative solutions to address them,” Southwest District Health Community Resiliency Program Manager Emily Straubhar said in the release. “Through this collaboration, BUILD Payette will create a healthier Southwest Idaho.” | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/national-grant-puts-600-000-toward-payette-community-s-health-care-needs/article_5c76fcd6-00aa-11ee-b227-7bb1857ab0e6.html | 2023-06-01T22:12:56 | 1 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/national-grant-puts-600-000-toward-payette-community-s-health-care-needs/article_5c76fcd6-00aa-11ee-b227-7bb1857ab0e6.html |
Originally published May 31 on IdahoEdNews.org.
A citizens group is encouraging Idahoans to fight back against a $115 million K-12 budget cut — as some educators call out Gov. Brad Little, in personal terms.
But the $115 million cut might not materialize. The money remains on the table.
In an online petition drive, Reclaim Idaho members and supporters are urging Little to “keep his promise” to add $330 million to the public schools budget for the next spending year, which begins July 1. The increase won’t reach $330 million, and will instead come in at $215 million, Reclaim says. That’s because Little and the 2023 Legislature rescinded a pandemic-era funding formula based on enrollment, and again tied funding to student attendance — an inherently smaller number than overall student enrollment.
“If this issue goes unaddressed, school districts across the state will feel the impact,” says the petition, signed by nearly 6,000 people as of Thursday afternoon. “Some districts will see layoffs of teachers and support staff. Others will be forced to increase class sizes, eliminate positions for counselors and librarians, or hold back promised salary increases.”
Through a spokeswoman, Little defended this year’s K-12 budget bills — which actually increased spending by $381 million — while emphasizing the importance of attendance in school.
“Gov. Little believes education should be in-person and student-focused in order to improve student outcomes,” Madison Hardy said Wednesday. “We will continue to monitor efforts to improve school attendance to pre-pandemic levels and will make any necessary adjustments in collaboration with the Legislature, education leaders, and stakeholders.”
Reclaim’s claim that $115 million is on the chopping block stems from a recent spreadsheet from a state budget analyst. The document — from Jared Tatro, deputy division manager of the state’s Legislative Services Office — has been widely distributed among legislators.
Based on Tatro’s math, the attendance-based model requires the state to fund fewer school “support units,” a multiplier that resembles a classroom. The number of “support units” rises and falls based on attendance rates, but it always comes in lower than the number of enrollment-based support units.
Here’s where the math gets trickier. While there are fewer attendance-based “support units,” each one is worth more money. According to Tatro’s spreadsheet, schools will still receive at least $215 million in additional money for 2023-24.
Making things even more complicated, that $215 million increase could swell.
In all, an additional $206.5 million is available: money funded by the 2023 Legislature. More than half of that money was earmarked for salaries; the rest was penciled in for benefits, insurance or discretionary spending. That money is available to fund schools, if attendance numbers climb in 2023-24 and justify an additional number of support units.
Tatro based his spreadsheet on 2022-23 attendance rates that hovered at 89% to 90%. If attendance rebounds to pre-pandemic rates of close to 95% next school year, schools would receive upwards of $100 million in additional funding, Tatro said.
If attendance rates remain in the 89% to 90% range, the additional state dollars would land in Public Education Stabilization Fund, a rainy-day fund.
This data point underscores the point that the state has the additional money to send out to schools, says Reclaim co-founder Luke Mayville.
“It’s being held back,” Mayville said Tuesday. “This pot of money does not do any good for Idaho students if it does not go out to the school districts.”
While seemingly arcane, the debate over enrollment- or attendance-based funding has been a contentious matter at the Statehouse. Supporters of the enrollment-based approach say it is more predictable, and better reflects student mobility. Supporters of the attendance-based approach say it gives schools a financial incentive to make sure their students are learning in a classroom whenever possible.
In 2022, Little vetoed a bill to extend enrollment-based funding through 2023-24. The State Board of Education, comprised largely of Little appointees, voted to keep the enrollment-based approach intact on a temporary basis. But that rule expires on June 30, and the State Board has acknowledged that this sunset could reduce next year’s school funding by more than $100 million.
Little is the focal point of Reclaim’s petition. The group wants the governor to call on the State Board to keep the enrollment-based funding formula intact.
In this petition drive, Reclaim has also collected about 100 first-person accounts from teachers, school administrators and trustees from across Idaho. Several unnamed teachers directed their remarks at Little.
“I have lost track of the amount of times that educators have been promised things, only to be let down,” said one teacher from Kimberly. “If you want to keep teachers, keep your promises.”
“It appears I’ve been lied to about supporting my school,” said a kindergarten teacher from Castleford. “How can I continue in my career under such deceit!”
"Please don’t back out on us,” said a special education teacher from Weiser.
Reclaim and Little have some history on school funding issues.
In 2022, Reclaim pushed for a voter initiative seeking to siphon $330 million of tax increases into K-12. Little responded by convening a one-day special legislative session in September, convincing lawmakers to pass $650 million in tax cuts and $410 million in new education funding, including the $330 million for K-12. Reclaim later pulled its initiative. | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/reclaim-idaho-governor-little-is-reneging-on-k-12-funding-commitment/article_64a5d0c0-00ab-11ee-879e-77a3b19655b4.html | 2023-06-01T22:13:03 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/reclaim-idaho-governor-little-is-reneging-on-k-12-funding-commitment/article_64a5d0c0-00ab-11ee-879e-77a3b19655b4.html |
'We want to see actions': Family of man who drowned in Tempe Town Lake files lawsuit against city
The family of a man who drowned in Tempe Town Lake during an encounter with police in 2022 filed a lawsuit against the city of Tempe on Friday.
The lawsuit comes a year after Sean Bickings, who was 34, drowned at the lake as Tempe police officers watched from a bridge and did not step in to help him.
The incident put police water safety protocols into question after body camera footage and audio transcripts released last summer showed Bickings pleading officers for help as they stood by and told him they were "not jumping in" after him. Weeks after the drowning, the Tempe Police Department's union stated officers do not have water-rescue training and lack equipment to perform water rescues without putting the officer at risk.
Bickings' family filed a notice of claim seeking a sum of $3 million against the city in December and ultimately filed a lawsuit "because the city of Tempe hasn't done any changes," said Benjamin Taylor, Bickings' family attorney. "There's been a lot of lip service. We want to see actions."
Months after Bickings' drowning, Tempe announced they would better equip officers for water rescues and add rescue devices to the city's lakes.
The Tempe Police Department also promised to provide enough personal floatation devices for all their units to carry along with training on the use of the new equipment. Before the drowning, outside of CPR, there was no water-related rescue training at the Tempe Police Department.
Despite criticism of the Tempe police response, the Tempe Officers Association said they stood by the officers’ decision to stay out of the water because the rescue represented a high risk of drowning for the officers, the association announced days after the drowning.
According to Taylor, the city has not yet implemented new water safety measures.
"They made all these promises, and we want them to follow through," Taylor said. "It's been one year, what is the City of Tempe waiting for?"
Nikki Ripley, spokesperson with the city of Tempe, said it is the city's policy not to provide comment on active litigation, but she exlpained the city has plans to start implementing water safety devices in early June and that Tempe officers have received training in how to use water rescue throw bags, "which has led to seven individuals being rescued since August," Ripley said.
Ripley said Tempe's operating budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts in August, includes a park ranger program which, if approved, would provide patrols for city parks and lakes. Ripley did not specify if park rangers would be trained in water rescue and if they would be able to assist in drowning situations.
Ripley also said the city's plan to implement floatation rings at Tempe Town Lake and Kiwanis Park is "on track" as it is expected to start in June after the city "waited for product delivery and hardware modifications," Ripley said.
The lawsuit is filed against the city of Tempe, Tempe Police Chief Jeffrey Glover, Tempe Fire Chief Greg Ruiz and the three responding officers: Bryan Berman, Kelly Bennett and Jeffrey Gebbie. The lawsuit accuses them of negligence and wrongful death and asks for a "full and fair" compensation for Bickings' family, which would include funeral and burial expenses and punitive damages, among other things.
'The family is still grieving'
Bickings' death was followed by outpour of support from the community and from local activists, who called out police negligence and deemed the officers' actions as "indifferent" and "insensitive." Taylor said with the lawsuit, Bickings family also wants to point out the "lack of caring" that officers showed during the incident.
"The family is still grieving, they're still hurt," Taylor said. "The body camera clearly shows how this officer did not care about Sean Bickings' life. Anybody who watched the (footage) could feel heartbroken when Sean started begging for his life and the officers pretty much said they weren't doing anything."
Taylor said officers need to have better training to prevent another drowning in the lake. The lawsuit claims the city had "extensive prior notice and knowledge of the dangerousness of and risk of drowning in the Tempe Town Lake" and it said Bickings' death was "avoidable."
"Anybody can walk along (Tempe Town Lake) today, and it's still the same as it was last year, the lake hasn't changed," Taylor said. "If officers had life-preserving devices, Sean Bickings could be alive today." | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/tempe/2023/06/01/family-of-man-who-drowned-in-tempe-files-lawsuit-against-city/70275216007/ | 2023-06-01T22:15:30 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/tempe/2023/06/01/family-of-man-who-drowned-in-tempe-files-lawsuit-against-city/70275216007/ |
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Family members of DeAngelo Allen show solidarity in numbers as they attend the preliminary hearing of those charged with Allen’s death, Keither and Gavin Snider.
Gavin Snider is moved from the courtroom Thursday after Judge Timothy Burgess binds his case over to a grand jury. Snider, along with his mother Keither Snider, is charged with murder in connection with the death of DeAngelo Allen, who went missing last Sept.
Family members of DeAngelo Allen show solidarity in numbers as they attend the preliminary hearing of those charged with Allen’s death, Keither and Gavin Snider.
Gavin Snider is moved from the courtroom Thursday after Judge Timothy Burgess binds his case over to a grand jury. Snider, along with his mother Keither Snider, is charged with murder in connection with the death of DeAngelo Allen, who went missing last Sept.
A Calhoun County judge bound over to the grand jury the case of DeAngelo “Dee” Allen, an Anniston man who was killed last September.
Keither Snider and her son, Gavin Snider, were both charged with murder in connection with Allen’s death in early May after an extensive investigation by the Anniston Police Department.
Circuit Court Judge Timothy Burgess presided over the preliminary hearing Thursday afternoon where he found enough probable cause to bind the case over to a grand jury.
Thirty-one-year-old Allen was last seen near the 1000 block of Old Coldwater Road around Sept. 21 of last year. Allen’s family members reported him missing after several days of not hearing from him.
The victim’s family was present at Thursday’s court proceedings wearing pins on their shirts with photos of Allen, displaying the words #JusticeForDee.
No witness testimony was heard at the hearing, as both parties had an opportunity to present evidence at a prior Aniah’s Law hearing. Burgess presided over that hearing as well, and stated to the court that that testimony was sufficient to find probable cause.
Gavin Snider’s defense attorney Chase Arnold, standing in for Donald Murphy, made a motion to dismiss the murder charges on both clients. However, Burgess denied that motion.
The case had originally been assigned to Calhoun County District Court Judge Randy Moeller; however, Moeller recused himself from the case, according to court documents. Moeller has had a longstanding acquaintanceship with the victim’s father, as the two went to high school together.
Because of Alabama’s Aniah’s Law, which states that violent offenders may be held without bond, Gavin Snider is being held at the Calhoun County Jail without bond, while his mother Keither has been jailed on a $350,000 bond.
Staff Writer Ashley Morrison: 256-236-1551. On Twitter: @AshMorrison1105. | https://www.annistonstar.com/news/local/murder-case-goes-to-grand-jury/article_28c51d6a-00b8-11ee-826f-938d99db05e8.html | 2023-06-01T22:17:22 | 1 | https://www.annistonstar.com/news/local/murder-case-goes-to-grand-jury/article_28c51d6a-00b8-11ee-826f-938d99db05e8.html |
INDIANAPOLIS — Crews are working to find out what caused a house fire in southern Broad Ripple on Thursday afternoon.
It happened at this multi-family home near 42nd and Ruckle streets.
We've learned two pets were killed. One pet is missing and another got out safely.
No one was home at the time of the fire.
13News will continue to provide updates on this situation. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/2-pets-killed-1-missing-after-broad-ripple-house-fire-indianapolis/531-950416d3-a004-4a86-be64-df719c3de402 | 2023-06-01T22:22:32 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/2-pets-killed-1-missing-after-broad-ripple-house-fire-indianapolis/531-950416d3-a004-4a86-be64-df719c3de402 |
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana State Fair returns for its 166th year with new safety measures.
Among the restrictions are a new unaccompanied minor policy and an updated bag policy.
New measures include:
- Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Fairgoers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or chaperone (age 21+) to enter the Indiana State Fair starting at 6 p.m. daily. This applies to all 18 days of the Fair.
- Each adult may chaperone up to six individuals and must remain at the Fairgrounds while the minors they are chaperoning are still present.
- Bag Policy: All bags permitted into the State Fair must be 9”x10”x12” or smaller. All bags are subject to search upon entry to the Fair through metal detectors.
- Weapons of any kind are prohibited at the Indiana State Fair.
- Visitors will be screened through metal detectors at entry gates.
“There is nothing more important to our event operation than our public safety plan. Along with our Public Safety Partners, we update, enhance and train to this plan annually.” said Anna Whelchel, chief marketing and sales officer of the Indiana State Fair.
The Indiana State Fair will run July 28 through Aug. 20 and will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information on the fair, click here. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indiana/indiana-state-fair-unveils-safety-measures-2023-unaccompanied-minor-policy-bags-dates-hours-prices-tickets-parking/531-ea2b4aa7-3cbb-4c4e-b24f-0b3346644838 | 2023-06-01T22:22:38 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indiana/indiana-state-fair-unveils-safety-measures-2023-unaccompanied-minor-policy-bags-dates-hours-prices-tickets-parking/531-ea2b4aa7-3cbb-4c4e-b24f-0b3346644838 |
MUNCIE, Ind. — The PepsiCo plant in Muncie will close, representatives with PepsiCo confirmed to 13News on Thursday.
The company released the following statement about the closure:
"PepsiCo is always evaluating our network solutions and reviewing the best possible ways to optimize our service. With many recent distribution changes, we have determined that in the coming months, PepsiCo Beverages North America’s operations in Muncie, Indiana will close and be redistributed to neighboring locations. We will be working closely with leadership, unions, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition during this process with minimal impact to our employees and customers."
The company estimates there are about 100 employees at that location.
13News reached out to the center in Muncie for comment, but did not hear back by time of publication.
The company did not clarify when they plan to close services there. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/pepsico-operations-to-close-in-muncie-indiana-plant/531-a8624ba8-7e0e-40ad-8313-b97c33175395 | 2023-06-01T22:22:44 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/pepsico-operations-to-close-in-muncie-indiana-plant/531-a8624ba8-7e0e-40ad-8313-b97c33175395 |
Family members of a slain Temple University police sergeant are suing the teen accused of killing him as well as the suspect’s family.
Miles Pfeffer, 18, is charged with murder, murder of a law enforcement officer, robbery, carjacking, possession of an instrument of crime and related offenses in connection to the deadly shooting of Temple University Police Sergeant Christopher Fitzgerald earlier this year.
On Thursday, more than three months after the shooting, Fitzgerald’s family filed a lawsuit against Pfeffer, his mother Jill Petruska, Pfeffer’s father Mark Pfeffer and Petruska’s boyfriend George Shaw, accusing them of being liable for negligence and wrongful death.
“These individuals all had detailed knowledge of Miles Pfeffer’s mental instability, propensity for violence and strong interest in possessing and using firearms,” the lawsuit states. “Defendant Miles Pfeffer showed signs, again and again, that he presented a high risk of harm to himself and those around him.”
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On the evening of February 18, Sergeant Fitzgerald was patrolling an area in North Philadelphia near Temple’s campus when he spotted Pfeffer, his brother and their friend who police said were acting suspiciously. As Sergeant Fitzgerald approached the group, the three young men fled on foot, going in different directions, according to police. Fitzgerald chased after Pfeffer near North 17th Street and West Montgomery Avenue.
Investigators said Fitzgerald told Pfeffer to get on the ground multiple times before the teen pulled out a gun and opened fire.
Sergeant Fitzgerald was shot at least once and fell to the ground, police said. Pfeffer then allegedly stood over Sergeant Fitzgerald and shot him several times in the head and face, killing him. Police said Pfeffer then searched through Sergeant Fitzgerald’s pockets and tried to steal his service weapon but couldn’t get the gun out of the holster.
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Pfeffer then fled the scene and carjacked a man along the 1800 block of North 18th Street, investigators said.
Investigators said Pfeffer’s mother Jill Petruska later picked her son up near 29th Street and Ridge Avenue shortly after the shooting. Philadelphia records show that Pfeffer's father owns property in that area. The empty stolen vehicle was also later recovered in that same area, according to police.
Petruska then drove her son back to their home in Buckingham Township, Bucks County, investigators said. On February 19, police descended on the home and used Sergeant Fitzgerald’s handcuffs to arrest Pfeffer, according to investigators.
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“Defendant Jill Petruska and Defendant George Shaw housed, clothed and fed Defendant Miles Pfeffer at their luxury home in Buckingham Township,” the lawsuit said. “It was here that Defendant Miles Pfeffer had a safe haven and ready access to multiple firearms. Indeed, his mother picked him up and drove him back to the Buckingham property after her son had finished slaughtering Christopher Fitzgerald.”
The lawsuit also accuses Pfeffer’s mother, her boyfriend and Pfeffer’s father of ignoring multiple warning signs from the teen prior to the deadly shooting, including mental health issues as well as a bomb scare at his high school.
“Despite the repeated signs, including multiple juvenile offenses, multiple school infractions, a bomb scare, and threats to bring weapons to school, Defendants Petruska, Shaw, and Mark Pfeffer failed to take the necessary steps to avoid catastrophe,” the lawsuit says.
The lawsuit also alleges there were numerous weapons at the family home in Buckingham Township as well as Mark Pfeffer’s home in Philadelphia.
“At all relevant times, Defendants Petruska, Shaw, and Mark Pfeffer knew that Defendant Miles Pfeffer had access to the firearms and ammunition in question and took insufficient steps to ensure that those instrumentalities did not come into the possession of the mentally ill and highly troubled Defendant Miles Pfeffer,” the lawsuit says.
The lawsuit demands a sum in excess of $50,000 “for compensatory damages, punitive damages, and such other relief as this Court may deem just and proper.”
During Fitzgerald’s funeral service in February, he was posthumously promoted from officer to the rank of sergeant.
There are additional resources for people or communities that have endured gun violence in Philadelphia. Further information can be found here. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/family-of-slain-temple-police-sergeant-sues-suspected-killer-and-family/3577515/ | 2023-06-01T22:28:03 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/family-of-slain-temple-police-sergeant-sues-suspected-killer-and-family/3577515/ |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Drug Enforcement Administration is shedding light on a new widespread fraud scheme to help people protect their identity and money.
According to the administration, scammers call people and impersonate DEA agents to obtain confidential information such as social security numbers and bank accounts.
The DEA said scammers call victims and say that their name was used to rent a vehicle, which was stopped at the border containing many drugs.
The caller then asks the person to verify their social security number, or they say the person's bank account was compromised. In some cases, callers have also threatened victims with a possible arrest for the fictional drug seizure.
Victims have reported that the scammers are spoofing legitimate DEA phone numbers and sending photos of actual law enforcement photo ID badges to make the fraud scheme more believable.
A doctor from Heber Springs was the most recent caller to report the scam to the DEA tip line.
To identify a scam call situation, the DEA said scammers may:
- Use an aggressive tone and refuse to leave a message with anyone other than the targeted victim
- Threaten arrest and in the case of doctors/pharmacists, threaten to cancel their DEA registration number
- Demand thousands of dollars via wire transfer or in the form of untraceable gift card numbers the victim is told to provide over the phone
- Ask for personal information, like social security number and date of birth
- Reference National Provider Identifier numbers and/or state license numbers when calling a medical practitioner. They also may claim that patients are making accusations against that practitioner
Anyone who has received a scam call claiming to be with the DEA is asked to report the incident to the FBI here. The Federal Trade Commission also takes reports here.
DEA personnel will never contact members of the public or medical practitioners by telephone to demand money or any other form of payment. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/dea-warns-of-scammers/91-15d9a265-6ca9-4026-917e-b110e7a5a8b7 | 2023-06-01T22:28:52 | 1 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/dea-warns-of-scammers/91-15d9a265-6ca9-4026-917e-b110e7a5a8b7 |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The last two months for Janet Recker and her husband have been a journey.
She showed us around her home Wednesday and pointed out the damage left behind by the EF-3 tornado on March 31 and the progress made in the two months since.
"The tornado hit our dining room ceiling," Recker said. "That all came down and crashed."
She said the progress in the neighborhood has been slow as contractors are having a tough time getting the materials needed to finish repairing her house.
"We're like, 'When will we get moving on this?' It's going to slowly," Recker said. "They said... 'We can't find any brick that'll match your brick.'"
It's something people who live in hard-hit areas are still challenged with.
"This was devastating, and I know some people are frustrated," Ward 4 City Director Capi Peck said. "We're getting to the hardest hit areas as fast as possible."
Ward 4 is considered a hard-hit area, and Peck said insurance is another challenge.
"A lot of people that live in these areas were underinsured, and I know some people plan not to rebuild," Peck said.
The journey of recovery will take some time.
"We got a long way to go still," Peck said. "It won't look like it did six months or six years from now."
However, Recker remains optimistic.
"Every day, we say thank you, Lord, that we're alive," Recker said.
The City of Little Rock said that June 11 is the last day any curbside debris will be collected. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/tornado-recovery-in-little-rock/91-f5582630-3774-485a-b530-01c97f2e3d51 | 2023-06-01T22:28:59 | 1 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/tornado-recovery-in-little-rock/91-f5582630-3774-485a-b530-01c97f2e3d51 |
DALLAS — You know that old trope you see and movies and cartoons where dogs attack postal workers? Well, turns out there's some truth behind it -- so much so that dog attacks on mail carriers is something the United States Postal Service (USPS) tracks.
And in Texas, it seems like dogs particularly love attacking postal workers: Texas ranked as second-worst state for do attacks on mail carriers in 2022 with 404 of them. Texas's volume of dog attacks trailed only that of California's 675 last year.
As cities go, Dallas ranked as the third-worst city in the country with 44 dog attacks in 2022, trailing only the No. 1-ranked Houston (57 attacks) and No. 2-ranked Los Angeles 48 attacks).
Beyond the old cliché of dogs just despising mail deliverers, there's some real danger at play when these attacks happens, the USPS said.
“When letter carriers deliver mail in our communities, dogs that are not secured or leashed can become a nemesis and unpredictable and attack,” said USPS employee safety and health awareness manager Leeann Theriault in a statement. “Help us deliver your mail safely by keeping your dog secure and out of the way before your carrier arrives.”
USPS says more than 5,300 of their employees were attacked by dogs while delivering mail last year, and that aggressive dog behavior is a common safety concern they face.
This June, the USPS is running a campaign called National Dog Bite Awareness Week with a theme of "Even good dogs have bad days."
USPS advises that pet owners securing their dogs before their mail carrier approaches will minimize potentially dangerous interactions. They also advise that pet owners to keep dogs either inside, behind a fence, on a leash or away from the door when the mail traditionally arrives at their door.
Children should also not take mail directly from a carrier either, USPS advises, as dogs may view the carrier as a threat to the child.
“When our mail carriers are bitten, it is usually a ‘good dog’ that had not previously behaved in a menacing way,” said USPS Occupational Safety and Health Senior Director Linda DeCarlo in a statement. “In 2022, too many aggressive dogs impacted the lives of our employees while delivering the mail. Please help us reduce that number by being a responsible pet owner who secures their dog as we deliver the mail.”
USPS mail carriers are also trained to be alert and to respect a dog's territory while delivering, as well as trained on how to react should a dog attack or try to attack them.
“Recently, I was delivering to a customer’s mailbox and was nearly bitten by their large aggressive dog,” said Swain Lowe, a letter carrier in Manassas, Virginia. “Despite the dog being behind a fence, it still managed to jump over and charge me. Thankfully, I was aware of it and remembered not to run but to turn and use my satchel as a shield to prevent what could have been a terrible bite.” | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/dallas-dogs-attacked-third-highest-amount-postal-workers-usps/287-1eb3e7a7-af2f-4f28-9f56-97058ec34b5c | 2023-06-01T22:38:36 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/dallas-dogs-attacked-third-highest-amount-postal-workers-usps/287-1eb3e7a7-af2f-4f28-9f56-97058ec34b5c |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dallas-kicks-off-pride-month-with-special-flag-raising/3269359/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:02 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dallas-kicks-off-pride-month-with-special-flag-raising/3269359/ |
Things to do in Bloomington: Bluegrass, Shakespeare, Limestone Comedy Fest, touch a truck
June is here and Bloomington is opening the month with a bang. This week you can boogie to bluegrass in Peoples Park and the Orbit Room, get down with some iambic pentameter watching Shakespeare in the Park, or laugh till you can't breathe with the comedians at the Limestone Comedy Festival. Parents: Touch a truck returns to Winslow Sports Complex June 7. Your kids really want to go.
Enjoy bluegrass in Peoples Park and later, the Orbit Room
Two types of bluegrass will be performed Thursday, June 1. First, Limestone Nomad, a modern bluegrass folk music trio, will play a free show from 4:30-6 p.m. in Peoples Park, 501 E. Kirkwood Ave. Later, at 8 p.m. Lily & Madeleine, an Indy folk-pop duo, will perform at the Orbit Room, 107 N. College Ave., with special guest Public Universal Friend. Tickets are $20 per person. For more or tickets, go to www.orbitbtown.com.
What's happening with opera:IU Jacobs School cuts half of opera performances for the 2023-24 season. Here's why.
Bloomington Pride Portraits featured at Monroe County History Center
Bloomington Pride Portraits by Garrett Ann Walters will be on display June 1 through Sept. 2 at the Monroe County History Center, 202 E. Sixth St. Walters is a portrait photographer interested in celebrating LGBTQ+ life in southern Indiana through her portrait photographs. Since 2021, she has been documenting Bloomington Pridefest and will share a selection of images in the exhibit. Admission to the first floor of the museum is free. The exhibit is supported by the Kinsey Institute.
34th annual Shakespeare in the Park performs 'Richard the Third'
Monroe County Civic Theatre and Bloomington Parks and Recreation will present "Richard the Third" at 7 p.m. June 1-3 and 2 p.m. June 4 in the Waldron Hill and Buskirk Park, 331 S. Washington St. Bring blankets, chairs, bug spray and water. The performances are free but donations will be accepted to help fund Bloomington's all-volunteer community theater. For more, go to mcct.org.
Limestone Comedy Festival gives 3 days of laughs June 1-3
Dozens of comedians, including Kyle Kinane, Kelly Collette, Shane Torres, Calvin Evans, Sara Schaefer, Deanne Smith and Mohanad Elsheiky, will perform June 1-3 at nine different venues in Bloomington as part of this year's Limestone Comedy Festival. The venues are 18- and 21-plus locations. Tickets range in price from $20 to $180 for a VIP badge. Go to https://limestonefest.com for more information and tickets.
On stage:Broadway comes to Bloomington for world premiere musical 'The Moon and the Sea'
Granfalloon Film Series presents "Metropolis" at Hopscotch
About 9 p.m. (at dusk) on Friday, June 2, outside of Hopscotch Coffee Roastery, 212 N. Madison St., the Granfalloon Film Series will present “Metropolis,” a German science-fiction film based in a futuristic city where a beautiful and cultured utopia exists above a bleak underworld where mistreated workers live. The event is free; bring your own chair to the Cicada Cinema event.
Welcome summer at Fourth and Rogers Block Party on Saturday
The fourth annual Fourth and Rogers Block Party is back to celebrate the neighborhood — from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 2. West Fourth Street will be closed for a block on either side of Rogers Street for art, food, live music, and fun for all ages.
The party includes new Gallery Walk art exhibits at Pictura Gallery/FAR Center for Contemporary Arts, Rainbow Bakery, I Fell, Lotus Firebay and Juniper Art Gallery. Family-friendly art and activities also will be provided and the Back Door Art Market @ FAR will have products for sale from many local artists and crafts people.
Rainbow Bakery, Maiz Comida Colombiana, Rasta Pops, Pili’s Party Taco, Bivi’s Tamales, Wacky Bunzz and Switchyard Brewing Company beer will provide food and drink.
Watch "How to Train Your Dragon" at 2 p.m. June 5 at the public library
From 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, June 5, people of all ages are welcome to watch "How to Train Your Dragon," as the Monroe County Public Library, 303 E. Kirkwood Ave., celebrates its summer reading program. Dress in your best dragon or dragon rider costume if you want. This movie is rated PG and is for all ages.
Touch a Truck at Winslow Sports Complex on Wednesday
The annual Touch a Truck event will be 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, June 7, at the Winslow Sports Complex, 2800 S. Highland Ave. Admission is $1 per person. Check out fire trucks, ambulances, buses, bucket trucks, tractors and more. The event is geared to children ages 1-10. Rain date is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 8. | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/entertainment/local/2023/06/01/bloomington-events-bluegrass-pride-pics-shakespeare-block-party/70268967007/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:07 | 0 | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/entertainment/local/2023/06/01/bloomington-events-bluegrass-pride-pics-shakespeare-block-party/70268967007/ |
Dallas Police announced the arrests of four teenagers Thursday who they say were behind a string of violent robberies targeting people and businesses in and around the Oak Lawn neighborhood throughout the month of May.
Those crimes, which took place between May 3 and May 28, happened in broad daylight in the 4000 and 4100 blocks of Cedar Springs Road, the 2600 block of Throckmorton Street, the 3400 block of Oak Lawn Avenue, the 4400 block of Lemmon Avenue and the 4300 block of Brown Street.
“When things like this occur, you just hope the men and women in your department can stop these things as soon as possible and that’s exactly what they did,” said Chief Eddie Garcia.
Garcia announced the arrest of a 15-year-old for robbery and three 16-year-olds for aggravated robberies in crimes he described as heinous.
“When you have a gun pointed to your face, right, your head, certainly it’s something that sticks with you forever,” he said.
At a smoke shop on Cedar Springs, an employee said he was among those threatened, beaten and robbed on May 8.
He said the store’s been targeted by the teens multiple times.
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Two doors down, the owner of Alexandre's, Lee Daugherty, said the shop had warned neighbors to stay alert.
“That at least brings me some relief. Hopefully, the perpetrators will get some help," said Daugherty.
It’s a sentiment echoed by Garcia, especially with their young ages in mind.
"These kids just, they graduate into these types of crimes. They just don't get up in the morning and decide we're going to conduct aggravated robberies throughout the city,” said Garcia. "Obviously, accountability needs to play a role. Parents need to play a role. Going into the summer, our summer safety plan making sure kids have something to do this summer is something we have to look at."
Meanwhile, police continue to investigate about a dozen other cases, saying more are likely to be connected with this string in the days to come. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dallas-police-arrest-four-teens-in-connection-with-violent-string-of-robberies/3269312/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:08 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dallas-police-arrest-four-teens-in-connection-with-violent-string-of-robberies/3269312/ |
Cool off at Bryan Park, Mills, IU, Edgewood or McCormick's Creek public pools
Looking to cool off as the weather heats up? Here's what you need to know about where and when you can take a dip in a public pool.
Bryan Park Pool hours and days
Bryan Park Pool, at 1020 S. Woodlawn Ave., opened May 27 and will remain open through Sept. 4. It will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Aug. 1 and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in August.
Admission is $6 per person, and children ages 3 and younger are admitted for free. Season passes for one individual to both Bryan Park and Mills pools are $70 and are sold only at the Bryan Park Pool. An economy punch pass, which contains 20 admissions, is $90 and can be purchased at either Bryan Park or Mills pools.
Mills Pool open hours and days
Mills Pool, at 1100 W. 14th St., also opened Saturday. Its hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Admission is $6 per person, and children 3 and younger are admitted for free.
For more about the Bryan Park and Mills pools, such as information about swim lessons, visit bloomington.in.gov/parks/pools.
Operating hours are subject to change, and the pool or portions of the pool may close due to weather, staff shortages or low attendance.
Indiana University outdoor pool
Indiana University’s outdoor pool, at 1490 N. Fee Lane, is open to the public with the purchase of a membership or a day pass. Hours vary but are generally 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, and noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
For members of the public, a day pass is $7 and a twilight pass, which includes 5-6 p.m. daily open swim and 6 p.m.-close lap swimming Monday through Thursday, is $4.
Information about memberships and day passes is available at https://outdoorpool.indiana.edu. Swim lessons also are available.
Edgewood High School pool public hours
Edgewood High School's indoor pool is open to the public. The pool, at 601 Edgewood Drive, is open to the public 5:30-7 a.m. and 7-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and noon-2 p.m. Saturday.
Admission is $2 per person.
McCormick's Creek State Park pool hours
McCormick’s Creek State Park, at 250 Park Road, Spencer, has an ADA-accessible, Olympic-size swimming pool and a wading pool open daily through mid-August and on weekends mid-August to Labor Day. The pool is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Admission is $3 per person, and admission for children 2 and younger is free. Lockers are available for 50 cents.
The pool also has a concession stand that serves snacks and drinks. | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/entertainment/local/2023/06/01/bloomington-indiana-hours-days-admission-for-public-pools/70272880007/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:13 | 0 | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/entertainment/local/2023/06/01/bloomington-indiana-hours-days-admission-for-public-pools/70272880007/ |
The former Arlington police officer who fatally shot a man attempting to drive away from a traffic stop in September 2018 was given six years deferred adjudication last week after pleading guilty to criminally negligent homicide.
More than four years ago, Bau Tran was indicted by a Tarrant County grand jury on the same charge related to the shooting death of 24-year-old O'Shae Terry.
Tran, on May 26, 2023, waived his right to a trial and pleaded guilty to a third-degree felony. According to court documents obtained by NBC 5, Tran will receive six years of deferred adjudication and pay a $600 fine and $300 in court costs.
Tran fatally shot Terry on Sept. 1, 2018, after he responded to a call for backup when another officer who made the stop smelled marijuana, according to Arlington police.
Body camera footage released Sept. 6 showed Terry following officers' instructions -- turning off the car and rolling down the windows. Tran can be seen on video saying, "If you don't have any more inside the vehicle, y'all shouldn't be worried about it. We just have to do what we have to do. So that's basically it."
After Tran finished speaking, either Terry or the man in the passenger seat starts to roll up the passenger side window. Tran says, "Stop," steps onto the SUV's running board, and grabs the top of the partially rolled-up window, as Terry starts to drive away.
At that point, the video shows Tran firing multiple shots into the vehicle, striking Terry. Terry later died at Medical City Arlington, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner.
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In May 2019, the Arlington Police Department completed its administrative investigation into the shooting and said Tran violated city and department administrative policies before using deadly force. Tran was subsequently dismissed by the department. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/former-arlington-officer-given-deferred-adjudication-in-2018-fatal-shooting/3269313/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:14 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/former-arlington-officer-given-deferred-adjudication-in-2018-fatal-shooting/3269313/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/rockwall-hosts-pickleball-tournament-the-connection/3269190/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:20 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/rockwall-hosts-pickleball-tournament-the-connection/3269190/ |
For veterans: VA expects surge in claims backlog, takes steps to address challenges
The Veterans Administration anticipates a potential surge in its claims backlog, with cases older than 125 days possibly reaching 400,000 in the next year due to the PACT Act. Over 560,000 disability compensation claims have been filed under the PACT Act (The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics [PACT] Act) since last year.
To handle the influx, the VA has increased its Veterans Benefits Administration workforce by 15% through significant hiring. The agency has experienced a 30% increase in claims due to the legislation and expects further growth as eligibility outreach continues. Efforts are underway to reduce the backlog to 100,000 by 2025.
Achieving this goal depends on factors including the number and complexity of claims, specific conditions, successful hiring and technology adoption. Presently, the department is burdened with 818,000 disability claims. In fiscal year 2022, it made a record-breaking 1.7 million decisions, a 12% increase from the previous year. As of the current year, the VA has rendered 15% more decisions than the same period last year.
More:For veterans: More than 28 service providers to participate in special VA event April 17
The VA's commitment to addressing the backlog is evident through its historical number of decisions. The department introduced mandatory overtime in 2017, reaching over 250,000 hours during the pandemic. Staffing challenges led to a hiring campaign and expedited onboarding. Although the backlog briefly decreased, it is rising again with new PACT Act claims. Mandatory overtime will be suspended in July and August to prioritize employee well-being.
The VA has improved claims processes and expanded the use of an automated system in regional offices to expedite the review of easily adjudicated conditions. The goal is to alleviate staff workload. As of May 12, decisions had been made on 252,000 out of 546,000 PACT Act claims, with nearly 80% approved for one or more conditions. Survivors of eligible veterans have also filed claims, resulting in benefits for 3,600 survivors.
Veterans with potential exposure-related conditions mentioned in the PACT Act are encouraged to file a claim by Aug. 9 for backdated compensation. Claims filed after that date will receive compensation from the filing date onward.
More:For veterans: Drivers needed to aid veterans getting to medical appointments
If you are interested in volunteering to drive for the DAV Van, need assistance filing a VA disability claim, or have questions about federal, state, or local veterans benefits, please contact my office. Steven Miller, Monroe County Veteran Service Officer. 812-349-2537 smiller@co.monroe.in.us | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/va-expects-surge-in-claims-backlog-due-to-pact-act/70260531007/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:25 | 0 | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/va-expects-surge-in-claims-backlog-due-to-pact-act/70260531007/ |
Tarrant County officials are moving to revoke a strip club's sexually oriented business permit and permanently shut down the club after another violent weekend left one dead and three injured.
According to the county sheriff's office, a customer at Temptations was asked to leave the fully nude BYOB club after a fight at about 3:15 a.m. Sunday, and while outside of the club opened fire in the parking lot injuring three people. A security guard fired back, killing the armed customer.
Neighbors have pushed for the business to close, calling it a nuisance and saying it's operating too close to homes. Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez, who represents the area, agrees with them.
"This is a dangerous business that creates an unacceptable risk to our community and our law enforcement officers. Quite frankly, this business should have been shut down a decade ago," said Ramirez.
The commissioners court on Thursday notified the club's owner, Eric Langan of Bellaire, Texas, that they have scheduled a hearing for 9 a.m. June 21 with the Tarrant County Sexually Oriented Business Board to determine if there's probable cause to revoke the business's SOB permit. After the hearing, the SOB board will determine if the permit should be revoked. If the permit is revoked, the owner has 20 days to file an appeal.
The Tarrant County Sheriff's Office released a statement Thursday saying from 2020 through 2022 there were more than 240 calls for service at the club, including 134 in 2022 alone, and that action to bring crime at the club to an end is long past due. The sheriff's office said calls ranged from murder to possession of a controlled substance. The Fort Worth Police said in 2022 they also responded to nearly three dozen calls at the club.
“Temptations is a blight on the community as well as all of Tarrant County,” said Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn. “Closing its doors will provide relief to the surrounding area from the criminal element Temptations attracts.”
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Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells said his office is also getting into the fight and filed a public nuisance lawsuit against the property owner, Queen Shiva, LLC, which would allow the club to be closed permanently if it's approved.
“As District Attorney, I am concerned about the escalation of criminal activities at Temptations Cabaret constituting a nuisance. That is why I filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking injunctive relief to curtail the menace that is Temptations," Sorrells said. “My number one priority is keeping our community safe. Allowing Temptations to continue its operation is counterintuitive to this goal.”
In Sorrells' petition, he wrote "Temptations has a well-earned reputation among law enforcement and the community for being a haven of crime, with patrons that are intoxicated, disorderly, violent, and who deal and/or use narcotics."
Prior to the fatal shooting of a gunman who injured three others on May 28, the Tarrant County DA said a double stabbing and multiple other shootings were reported at the club earlier in the month, including five instances of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. In August 2020 a man was killed and another was injured in a shooting outside the club. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/tarrant-county-officials-say-temptations-cabaret-is-a-nuisance-set-hearing-to-revoke-sob-permit/3269222/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:26 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/tarrant-county-officials-say-temptations-cabaret-is-a-nuisance-set-hearing-to-revoke-sob-permit/3269222/ |
Texas has seen a 137% growth in its Asian American and Pacific Islander population over the last 20 years. While AAPI Heritage Month wrapped up in May, we pose the question: What's driving the growth in Texas' Asian-American population?
Baylee Friday is joined by Lily Trieu, executive director of Asian Texans for Justice, who explains that Texas is a minority-majority state and how many different areas have concentrated AAPI populations -- not just the big cities.
State Rep. Gene Wu (D-Houston) breaks down Senate Bill 147 (which stalled in a House committee) and how it affects the AAPI community.
Nabila Mansoor, executive director of Rise AAPI, sheds light on how Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are feeling after the Allen Outlet Mall man shooting and highlights the accomplishments of AAPIs across the state.
Listen to Texas Wants to Know in the Audacy app or wherever you get your podcasts. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-wants-to-know-whats-driving-the-growth-in-texas-asian-american-population/3269273/ | 2023-06-01T22:39:32 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-wants-to-know-whats-driving-the-growth-in-texas-asian-american-population/3269273/ |
SAN ANGELO, Texas — The Citizen Center is hosting a canned food and fund drive aimed to help homeless individuals until June 29.
Donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted and can be dropped off at the Citizen Center, 12 E. Twohig Ave.; Houze of Power, 4215 Armstrong St.; or Tony Villarreal Insurance, 1820 College Hills Blvd.
Suggested donations include (pop-top cans if possible):
- Canned or pouched proteins such as Spam, tuna, chicken, brisket, chili with out without beans
- Beans
- Soups
- Fruit cups
- Canned fruits
- Crackers
- Granola or breakfast bars
- Peanut butter
- Jam or jelly (no glass containers)
- Cereal (large boxes or individual sizes)
- Shelf stable milk
- Canned spaghetti sauce
- Rice
- Beans
- Dry pasta
For safety reasons, the food bank cannot accept glass containers, homemade or home canned products, rusty or unlabeled cans, alcoholic beverages, baby food, over-the counter or prescription drugs, food near or after the expiration date or opened items.
All donations of food and/or monetary will benefit the Concho Valley Regional Food Bank.
For more information, call 915-303-0004. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/citizen-center-hosting-homeless-can-food-and-fund-drive/504-e176ebbb-90e4-410e-bc1f-43f3f11fbbd4 | 2023-06-01T22:40:29 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/citizen-center-hosting-homeless-can-food-and-fund-drive/504-e176ebbb-90e4-410e-bc1f-43f3f11fbbd4 |
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Following two reported bomb threats on Texas A&M's campus at 1:15 p.m. and 2:03 p.m., officials have issued an "All Clear" report.
The bomb threats were called in on the White Creek Apartments and the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility and authorities say that "no suspicious devices were found".
Authorities also say that White Creek Apartment residents and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility occupants to return to the buildings. Roadways are open and buses are set to resume normal operations shortly.
An investigation into the identity of the caller is underway by Texas A&M Police.
Also on KAGS: | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/code-maroon-issued-for-bomb-threat-at-tamu-nuclear-magnetic-resonance-facility/499-ebecd55e-d044-4f35-8326-f5d881dd9b2e | 2023-06-01T22:40:35 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/code-maroon-issued-for-bomb-threat-at-tamu-nuclear-magnetic-resonance-facility/499-ebecd55e-d044-4f35-8326-f5d881dd9b2e |
SWEETWATER, Texas — The Sweetwater Police Department is asking for the public’s help finding 16-year-old Dezarae Jones.
Jones who was reported as a runaway, the SPD said in a release.
Authorities received information she might be trying to travel to New York, but could still be in the Sweetwater area.
Dezarae was last seen Love’s Travel Stop in Sweetwater. She is 5’4” with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a dark gray hoodie, black pants and black glasses.
Family member told police her hair is now shorter than what is seen in the photograph.
Anyone with any information should contact their local law enforcement agency. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/sweetwater-pd-asking-for-the-publics-help-in-finding-16-year-old-runaway/504-847d307c-4c9d-4cc5-9aaa-1f61b746c29a | 2023-06-01T22:40:41 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/sweetwater-pd-asking-for-the-publics-help-in-finding-16-year-old-runaway/504-847d307c-4c9d-4cc5-9aaa-1f61b746c29a |
NEW ALBANY, Ohio — It’s the moment students and families across the country are embracing: graduation season.
Madison Walker is a recent graduate from Marburn Academy in New Albany. It wasn’t an easy journey to high school graduation, but she says her biggest challenge has yet to come.
With each college application came 21 different essays.
“I wrote about my adoption story. It was a letter to my infant self because I was born addicted to narcotics because my [biological] mother was a drug addict,” she said.
Madison started life already behind. She was born with addictive substances in her body. She went through two months of withdrawal just as an infant.
Her biological mother faced addiction issues and had to give her up. That was when Tanya Walker adopted Madison and took her under her wing.
Tanya said her time raising Madison was a journey. She, who is a single mother, knew how important education is and Madison’s love for it didn’t come with challenges.
“We found out [in sixth grade] that she had executive function disorder,” she said.
It’s a behavioral symptom that disrupts a person’s ability to manage their own thoughts, emotions and actions. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s most common with certain mental health conditions such as addictions.
Madison said she was never the type of person who wanted to use her diagnosis as a crutch. And Tanya echoed that inspiration.
“Once we knew what it was, I told her it was a diagnosis, not a definition. What that means is this definition doesn’t define who you are,” she said.
It was a motivation for Madison to use her diagnosis as fuel to get her to where she is today.
“I push myself harder. I don’t want things to go easy for me. Even with teachers, I said ‘Push me, grade me harder than you would.' I want to exceed what I feel like I can. I want to do the best of my abilities,” she said.
“If you tell her she cannot do something, she’s not only going to do it, she’s going to try and do it better,” Tanya said.
For the last year, Madison’s been visiting dozens of colleges looking for the right fit. That’s when she found Emerson College in Boston.
“The first time we visited, I remember when my daughter came out of the school and I asked, ‘What do you think?’ She looked at me and said ‘I can breathe’,” Tanya said.
Twenty-one college applications and 21 essays later, Madison got the call from Emerson College and she was offered a full-ride scholarship.
“It was immediately a yes because I love that school,” she said.
“She found her people. She found her school. She’s going to love it and I’m going to love it because of that,” Tanya said.
The offers didn’t stop there. Madison has a list of 16 college acceptance letters and she said Tanya was the strength that helped her get there.
“She made all of those sacrifices and has not asked for anything in return besides me being successful, and that’s exactly what I’ve done,” Madison said.
The soon-to-be college freshman said she wants to be a speech pathologist to help others with one thing.
“I knew that’s something I wanted to do. I want to help people and give them a voice,” she said. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/new-albany-graduate-overcomes-addiction-learning-disorders-earns-full-ride-scholarship-to-college/530-e63c851f-da8d-4683-a6ad-09cd09c98759 | 2023-06-01T22:46:55 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/new-albany-graduate-overcomes-addiction-learning-disorders-earns-full-ride-scholarship-to-college/530-e63c851f-da8d-4683-a6ad-09cd09c98759 |
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — On the first day of June, cities in the Tampa Bay area raised their Pride flags.
City leaders and Pride event organizers promise a welcoming environment. However, they said they're having to navigate the month with new laws that LGBTQ+ communities said targets them.
"Doesn't it seem like the world has gone bad," Clearwater Vice Mayor Mark Bunker said during the flag-raising ceremony.
The city of Clearwater is holding an inaugural Pride celebration featuring a glow party, yoga, and diversity festival this month. It's part of the city's "Living the Culture" series events aimed to celebrate diversity.
Clearwater Community Pride Committee Chair Trevor James said the new legislation only fueled organizers to make the month more special.
"They're not for this community of people that maybe has something against us," James said. "It's not our job to change their minds, but it is our job to keep our people safe."
New laws now in effect include a ban on gender-affirming care for minors statewide, but a law banning children's admission into "adult live performances" had critics wondering about its impact on Pride.
Critics said the law targets drag performers and the law's language is too vague. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill into law at an event in Tampa with signs behind him writing, "Let kids be kids."
DeSantis and lawmakers in support of the law said it's about protecting children from lewd performances.
However, local organizers said the events throughout the month will comply with new legislation but acknowledge they affect LGBTQ+ people.
"My community has faced countless cowardly attacks and silence our voices, restrict our rights and erase our presence," Nicole Berman, St. Pete Pride executive director, said.
St. Pete Pride will be busy once again hosting Florida's largest Pride parade. Previous parades have drawn at least 300,000 people before.
Pride organizers like James said he hopes people stick together at a time when laws he said are targeting LGBTQ+ people.
"If I had one message to send to anyone, it would be to just keep your head up and stay strong," James said. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/tampa-bay-st-pete-clearwater-pride-month-celebration/67-d4934a3d-114d-4c21-aa5c-bb2101d973f4 | 2023-06-01T22:47:02 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/tampa-bay-st-pete-clearwater-pride-month-celebration/67-d4934a3d-114d-4c21-aa5c-bb2101d973f4 |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The City of Portland has taken a major stride toward establishing a pilot project for the proposed “Frog Ferry” passenger-ferry system that would traverse the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in order to improve Interstate 5 bridge traffic and promote tourism in the Portland area.
Commissioner Mingus Mapps’ senior policy advisor Shannon Carney told KOIN 6 News that the city has to navigate numerous steps before a boat hits the water. However, Mapps and the Portland Regional Coordinating Committee officially added the ferry project to the City of Portland’s 2023 Regional Transportation Plan on May 24, clearing a path for the project to receive federal funding.
“This inclusion is a critical step for the project to be eligible for federal grant funding over the next five years,” Carney said.
The city’s regional transportation plan, which is submitted to Oregon Metro once every five years, outlines the city’s transportation investment priorities for the next 20 years. Friends of Frog Ferry, the nonprofit behind the project, said that the city will now need to outline a way to match grant funding for a pilot project and vote to partner with the nonprofit in order to apply for a Federal Transportation Administration Passenger Ferry Grant.
“If the City of Portland and Frog Ferry successfully apply for Federal Transportation Funding this summer, and match funding is secured, we can put a boat on the water in 2025,” Friends of Frog Ferry announced in a statement on May 24. “We have the opportunity to return to the Federal Transit Administration for funding year over year to grow a ferry service featuring more vessels.”
In its submission to the 2023 Regional Transportation Plan, the city estimates that establishing the pilot ferry system, plus one year of service, will cost roughly $12 million. Expenses for the project include: Buying a boat, design engineering costs, dock upgrades, the creation of a ticketing and scheduling system, marketing and the hiring of employees.
The Portland City Council has not included the proposed Frog Ferry in the draft for the 2023-2024 fiscal year budget, stating that there are no funds available for new projects. However, Friends of Frog Ferry states that the city’s contribution of its existing docks could be considered a monetary match for grant funding.
While Friends of Frog Ferry says it hopes to one day create a system with seven electric ferries capable of carrying 70 to 100 passengers along 10 different stops between Vancouver and Oregon City, the initial pilot project is expected to include one 70-passenger, diesel-engine boat traveling between Cathedral Park and the South Waterfront. One-way rides along the route are estimated to cost $3.50 and take 25 minutes.
The city council was scheduled to discuss approving a feasibility study for the pilot program in May. However, Mapps pulled the item from the agenda to allow for further discussion and planning.
Carney said that the council is expected to resume discussion about the project this summer.
“To ensure the plan for passenger water taxi service meets the Regional Transportation Plan requirements, we’ll be working with other city council offices to bring back the policy resolution to adopt the Frog Ferry Operational Feasibility study later this summer,” Carney said. “The Regional Transportation Plan update will ultimately be adopted by the Joint Policy Advisory Committee on Transportation and the Metro Council by November 2023.” | https://www.koin.com/local/city-council-creating-path-to-make-portland-to-vancouver-ferry-project-a-reality/ | 2023-06-01T22:48:20 | 1 | https://www.koin.com/local/city-council-creating-path-to-make-portland-to-vancouver-ferry-project-a-reality/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Thirteen years after his disappearance, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is still searching for Kyron Horman.
Horman was last seen on June 4, 2010, at Skyline Elementary in Portland, attending the school’s science fair. He was just seven years old at the time of his disappearance.
When Horman vanished, it was treated as a missing person case for nine days before authorities announced it was a criminal case on the 10th day.
The search for Horman sparked one of the largest investigations in Oregon history. No one has been arrested in the case, and there has been no sign of Horman since.
Authorities say that Horman was wearing a black CSI t-shirt with green lettering, black cargo pants and black Sketchers with orange trim. He was also possibly wearing glasses.
Horman has brown hair, blue eyes and a v-shaped birthmark on his forehead. The case and investigation remain open and active.
“Kyron’s disappearance continues to have a profound impact on our community,” said the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. “Investigators are using advances in software, digital forensics, and geospatial technology to support and advance their work. In collaboration with our Major Crimes Team partners, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and the FBI, detectives are pursuing all legitimate investigative leads and will continue to do so until Kyron is located.
A $50,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to the resolution of Hormans’s disappearance, according to officials. People can call the MCSO TipLine at 503-988-0560, email MCSOTipLine@mcso.us or contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children TipLine at 1-800-THE-LOST or provide an online tip at the organization’s CyberTipLine. | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/13-years-later-the-search-for-kyron-horman-continues/ | 2023-06-01T22:48:30 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/13-years-later-the-search-for-kyron-horman-continues/ |
MANSFIELD, Texas — For several months, Judith Weber, a 78-year-old cancer survivor from Mansfield, has been volunteering as a driver, taking cancer patients to or from their treatments in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
She signed up for the American Cancer Society Road to Recovery program. It provides free rides to appointments. According to ACS, transportation barriers are the top reason for missed cancer appointments.
From personal experience, Weber knows how crucial each appointment is. In May 2021, she was diagnosed with B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
"It was very advanced, stage four plus," Weber said. "My survival was 5% chance of survival."
As much as she accepted the news, she wanted to fight. Her doctors and her daughters wanted her to try too.
Weber has three daughters, Alison Farnell, Missy McGarr and Tina Silcocks.
"The three of us kind of just went into action," Farnell said.
One of them always stayed with Weber during her eight months of treatment. Weber had six rounds of chemotherapy. Her daughters drove her to appointments, picked up her medication and created a schedule to be with her at all times.
Feeling fortunate to have support from her family, Weber saw many patients who didn't have support at the hospital. She doesn't want cancer patients to feel alone, which is why she signed up for Road To Recovery.
Weber says during her drives with the patients, she can relate to them and provide hope, having beat cancer herself.
"It's important to these people that have cancer to see that they get to their appointments, get their chemo and get their treatment," Weber said. "I would urge everyone, if they have a couple hours a month, to sign up for it."
Volunteering for the American Cancer Society's Road To Recovery is Weber's way of celebrating her life, cancer-free. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/cancer-survivor-drives-patients-appointments-road-to-recovery/287-9194a69e-7e6f-4e8e-9d70-45ba047ebeca | 2023-06-01T22:48:42 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/cancer-survivor-drives-patients-appointments-road-to-recovery/287-9194a69e-7e6f-4e8e-9d70-45ba047ebeca |
DALLAS — You know that old trope you see and movies and cartoons where dogs attack postal workers? Well, turns out there's some truth behind it -- so much so that dog attacks on mail carriers is something the United States Postal Service (USPS) tracks.
And in Texas, it seems like dogs particularly love attacking postal workers: Texas ranked as second-worst state for do attacks on mail carriers in 2022 with 404 of them. Texas's volume of dog attacks trailed only that of California's 675 last year.
As cities go, Dallas ranked as the third-worst city in the country with 44 dog attacks in 2022, trailing only the No. 1-ranked Houston (57 attacks) and No. 2-ranked Los Angeles 48 attacks).
Beyond the old cliché of dogs just despising mail deliverers, there's some real danger at play when these attacks happens, the USPS said.
“When letter carriers deliver mail in our communities, dogs that are not secured or leashed can become a nemesis and unpredictable and attack,” said USPS employee safety and health awareness manager Leeann Theriault in a statement. “Help us deliver your mail safely by keeping your dog secure and out of the way before your carrier arrives.”
USPS says more than 5,300 of their employees were attacked by dogs while delivering mail last year, and that aggressive dog behavior is a common safety concern they face.
This June, the USPS is running a campaign called National Dog Bite Awareness Week with a theme of "Even good dogs have bad days."
USPS advises that pet owners securing their dogs before their mail carrier approaches will minimize potentially dangerous interactions. They also advise that pet owners to keep dogs either inside, behind a fence, on a leash or away from the door when the mail traditionally arrives at their door.
Children should also not take mail directly from a carrier either, USPS advises, as dogs may view the carrier as a threat to the child.
“When our mail carriers are bitten, it is usually a ‘good dog’ that had not previously behaved in a menacing way,” said USPS Occupational Safety and Health Senior Director Linda DeCarlo in a statement. “In 2022, too many aggressive dogs impacted the lives of our employees while delivering the mail. Please help us reduce that number by being a responsible pet owner who secures their dog as we deliver the mail.”
USPS mail carriers are also trained to be alert and to respect a dog's territory while delivering, as well as trained on how to react should a dog attack or try to attack them.
“Recently, I was delivering to a customer’s mailbox and was nearly bitten by their large aggressive dog,” said Swain Lowe, a letter carrier in Manassas, Virginia. “Despite the dog being behind a fence, it still managed to jump over and charge me. Thankfully, I was aware of it and remembered not to run but to turn and use my satchel as a shield to prevent what could have been a terrible bite.” | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-dogs-attacked-third-highest-amount-postal-workers-usps/287-1eb3e7a7-af2f-4f28-9f56-97058ec34b5c | 2023-06-01T22:48:43 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-dogs-attacked-third-highest-amount-postal-workers-usps/287-1eb3e7a7-af2f-4f28-9f56-97058ec34b5c |
YORK, Pa. — The T in LGBTQ+ stands for Trans. Some transgender children and adults express their gender identity without any medical steps, while others want to make changes to match how they feel and how they want others to view them.
So what is it like to transition? In this week's Health Smart report, we found out it's different for everyone.
Changing gender from man to woman or woman to man can be complicated physically and mentally.
"There's the social transitioning, there's legal transitioning, there's medical transitioning.... so every person is going to want different pieces of that. Some people want to do all three of those things some people might just want to socially transition," said Alexander Stefanini.
He started Arrive Therapy in Chester County, offering a safe place solely for transgender individuals to receive mental health services.
"It's an existential pain when we are living a life in a body and an existence and inside we know that nobody sees us right. The person we really are is not being seen or reflected around us," he said.
Stefanini says transitioning is a process that can take anywhere between several months to several years, with the ultimate goal of being seen by people for who the trans person feels they are.
"There's a certain amount of relief that happens just when there are others around us who see us and who accept who we are," he stated.
It's something he knows first-hand as Stefanini transitioned in 2018.
"Transitioning was very freeing. It alleviated a whole lot of anxiety, self-hate, stress, feeling awkward in the world, not feeling right in my body," he recalled.
For him, the process was easy, "I could really finally be myself. I could finally look in the mirror and finally saw that person was me. I wasn't distressed putting on clothes.I just feel so much better."
But he admits transitioning is a very different journey for everyone. "A lot of times people maybe just don't have the money to even go to the doctor, get the hormones, so each person's journey is very different," he cautioned.
While it may look different, he says transitioning genders offers someone the same end result: The chance to express their true identity. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/a-look-at-what-its-like-to-transition-genders/521-37bf37d9-9ba6-47f3-b861-068f580ea0a7 | 2023-06-01T22:50:52 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/a-look-at-what-its-like-to-transition-genders/521-37bf37d9-9ba6-47f3-b861-068f580ea0a7 |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — The fight to protect LGBTQ+ rights is often waged in the legislature. While many bills aim to protect these rights, some aim to do the opposite, according to the ACLU.
The ACLU is tracking 490 of what it calls “anti-LGBTQ” bills in state legislatures across the country, including three in Pennsylvania.
“The bills that we think pose the biggest threats to LGBTQ rights tend to be in the same couple of buckets,” said ACLU Pennsylvania legislative director Elizabeth Randol.
Those buckets include freedom of expression, safety of transgender students and access to health care for gender dysphoria.
One bill in the state House, for example, would extend the statute of limitations for minors who undergo gender affirmation treatment to sue their care provider for medical malpractice.
According to the ACLU, HB 138 is an effort to intimidate care providers.
“We are always alarmed and would oppose legislation that creates a more chilling atmosphere, the same way that we would do on reproductive rights,” Randol said.
State Rep. Paul Schemel (R-Franklin), who introduced the bill, disagreed with the ACLU’s label of it as anti-LGBTQ.
“I don’t see what’s anti-LGBTQ with regard to a piece of legislation that actually extends additional rights to individuals. It doesn’t take anything away. It doesn’t create harm to anybody,” Schemel said. “It really just says that an individual who had a medical intervention as a child, they get an extended period of time to raise a claim.”
Schemel compared the measure to other attempts to extend the statute of limitations for children who have been hurt.
“Oftentimes individuals really aren’t ready at that point or maybe the individual, if they’ve been harmed, those harms don’t manifest themselves until later,” he said.
State Rep. Jessica Benham, the first openly LGBTQ+ woman elected to the Pennsylvania General Assembly, said the bill and others on the ACLU’s anti-LGBTQ legislation list are part of a trend of subtle attacks against the LGBTQ+ community.
“We often talk about, when we’re talking about race, things that are ‘dog whistles’ for things that are racist, and I think we see some very similar things that happen when it comes to targeting the LGBTQ+ community where folks will claim that they’re protecting women or they’re protecting children,” Benham said. “When in reality what they’re doing is denying the very real fact that LGBTQ+ people have always existed and will always exist.”
Benham is part of the House LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus, which also opposes the two other House bills on the ACLU’s list. HB 319 would ban teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity from kindergarten through fifth grade, and HB 216 would require students to play on the sports team based on their sex assigned at birth.
“When you don’t want to engage with commonsense policy proposals, then your only alternative is to throw out things that you think will get you an interview on some national media networks. You can raise your name ID or something like that. So it’s very cynical, I think, why these bills are being introduced,” said Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (D-Phila.), another member of the caucus.
Democrats said with their new majority in the House, the bills would be dead on arrival on the House floor.
“Look, at the end of the day, as long as Democrats have majority in the House, we’re going to ensure that no pieces of legislation which unfairly target the LGBTQ+ community get a vote,” Benham said.
Republicans, though, do control the Senate, so support from both parties would ultimately be needed to pass any law. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/aclu-pa-threaten-lgbtq-rights/521-55acb7a4-3bcc-46dd-aeb0-8a172ec68e8a | 2023-06-01T22:50:58 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/aclu-pa-threaten-lgbtq-rights/521-55acb7a4-3bcc-46dd-aeb0-8a172ec68e8a |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Despite perceived wins for equality not only in recent years but dating back to Obergefell v. Hodges for marriage equality, LGBTQ advocates say the fight for equality continues.
One particular fight involves non-discrimination.
"A lot of people think it's a law already," said Henry Sias, the executive director of the Governor's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs.
There is no explicit statewide protection for LGBTQ non-discrimination in Pennsylvania. However, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), using guidance from Clayton V. Bostock as well as Executive Order 13988, does investigate discrimination claims related to sexual orientation and gender identity, based on sex.
"We determined we would need to look at these cases on a case-by-case basis in order to protect people," Adrian Garcia, the director of fair housing and commercial property for the PHRC, said. "We believe that would be discrimination on the basis of sex."
The PHRC, the Governor's Commission on LGBTQ+ Affairs and the Pennsylvania Youth Congress reportedly receive calls for help in discrimination cases nearly every day.
Garcia recalled one particularly nasty story.
"The landlord actually spread rumors to the neighbors in the multi-family unit. Every time they walked in they were cat-called, harassed, called names. It was an impossible situation," Garcia said.
"We still get calls from people facing harassment in the workplace, discrimination in finding apartments," recounted Jason Landau Goodman, board chair of the PA Youth Congress. "These issues are persistent until we get a state law passed."
That state law advocates want to be passed is the Pa. Fairness Act. Proponents say it would codify sexual orientation and gender identity as a protected class into state law, like religion, race or sex.
"To be rendered jobless or kicked out of their apartments because of something is intrinsic to who they are, it's not compatible with a fair and ordered society," Sias said.
More than 70 municipalities have taken the extra step in adopting non-discrimination ordinances to overlap potential interpretations of state law.
Officials say local non-discrimination ordinances give Pennsylvanians comfort, while also filling a gap in knowledge about potential state help.
"Is it rampant [discrimination]? I believe it is," Garcia said. "I believe because there hasn't been protections in the past, people don't know they can file."
And the filing process, while attempted to be limited to 100 days, still can be a trying process.
"Retaliation is real. Landlords retaliate in many cases, even though the law has prohibitions against that," Garcia said.
The investigation begins after a complaint with a notification sent to the landlord that they're being investigated. Garcia said that's when the retaliation often occurs in those examples.
"It's usually, 'I'm not renewing your lease. I'm selling the building.' There's a rent increase. Not responding to maintenance requests when asked," Garcia said.
And for many, local and statewide protections mean simply being treated like every other member of their respective communities.
"LGBTQ people are just regular people who are getting up in the morning, just trying to make things a little bit better every day," Sias said. "People who contribute to our communities deserve to be treated fairly."
As of June 1, the Pa. Fairness Act's debate continues. For information on statewide discrimination, how to file and more, visit the PHRC's website. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/despite-recent-advances-state-officials-lgbtq-discrimination-occurs-pride-special/521-85d52c50-ebe6-4b11-bc4b-aa3230ecf32a | 2023-06-01T22:51:05 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/despite-recent-advances-state-officials-lgbtq-discrimination-occurs-pride-special/521-85d52c50-ebe6-4b11-bc4b-aa3230ecf32a |
LANCASTER, Pa. — How a person feels on the inside might not be the same as how they look on the outside. To celebrate Pride Month, FOX43 visited a small barbershop in Elizabethtown Borough that’s changing lives one haircut at a time.
“Hair is a huge part of everybody’s identity, a lot of people express themselves through their hair,” said Jackie Neal, the lead barber at Elizabethtown Barbers.
A family-owned business in Lancaster County, Elizabethtown Barbers is helping customers feel comfortable in their own skin.
“I was trying to find a gender-affirming, safe barbershop,” said customer Raphaela Cassandra.
“This barbershop is really wonderful in the community and the safe space it's created... a lot of times it’s a very scary experience for a queer person to walk into, a very often times, gendered space as a barbershop and being worried about being accepted and welcomed into that space and getting a good haircut,” added Lem McCarty, another customer at Elizabethtown Barbers.
How a person chooses to cut their hair can impact how others see them. It can also impact how others are treated, especially if they’re within the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I definitely think that there’s a lot of anxiety just from previous social norms to appear a certain way,” Neal said.
And that’s where the Elizabethtown barbershop comes in. As an LGBTQIA+ supportive business, Elizabethtown Barbers is giving people their voice back and working to spread the word about their safe space.
“We added ourselves on the website, STRANDS for Trans, and then that really brought in quite a few people as well,” Neal said.
Elizabethtown Barbers is just one of several businesses in a group called STRANDS for Trans, a website that provides a list of LGBTQIA+ accommodating businesses within their respective communities.
“I told Jackie that I found the place on STRANDS for Trans and explained that it was really important to me to find a space [where] I could feel safe to get a haircut and feel respected,” Cassandra said.
“It’s so wonderful to have that resource, it’s not something I had when growing up and I think having that resource is going to allow people to feel more comfortable to go get a haircut that they truly want,” McCarty said.
So, what do haircuts have to do with gender-affirming care?
As Raphaela explained, “We think of gender-affirming care just as medical care, but people are doing gender-affirming things every day, and I wanted the experience. I know the experience makes me happy to be in a barbershop and get the haircut that I want to get, that’s gender-affirming care to me.”
“When I can provide a haircut and spin somebody around in the chair and they look in the mirror and say, ‘Wow this looks like me,’ that’s a really awesome feeling,” Neal said. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/pride-lgbtqia-transgender-business-local/521-e1534947-a2be-4814-9489-17754fd53cda | 2023-06-01T22:51:11 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/pride-lgbtqia-transgender-business-local/521-e1534947-a2be-4814-9489-17754fd53cda |
RED LION, Pa. — "We're just trying to be like everybody else. We're just trying to be in that normal," Parker Smith, a 2023 Red Lion Area Senior High School graduate and transgender student, said.
Normal for Smith turned into ten-minute walks to the bathroom and back for the last several months of his senior year. The Red Lion Area School District issued an emergency directive in December around transgender students, pertaining to restrooms, locker rooms and sports teams.
"I was pulled out of class in the morning," Smith recalled. "One of the assistant principals pulled me to his office, said, 'This is what it is, this is what's going down and this is what we can do for you.'"
"When I get that call, I was shocked," Parker's mom, Stephanie Smith, said.
Stephanie said when she enrolled Parker in school earlier in the year and didn't believe her son's transgender status would become a problem.
"When I called to register and I said my child prefers to go by the name of Parker and uses male pronouns, immediately 'Oh we have a form for that. Let me email that over to you.' Filled that out, sent it on, from then on he was Parker," Stephanie said.
"The school staff have been incredible. The school board is another story," Stephanie said.
Parker never intended to be someone who spoke out on transgender issues. However, the first proposal he read from the Red Lion Area School District required students either be of age or have parental permission, to be addressed by their preferred name and pronouns. That, he and most officials say, requires students to out themselves both at public and at home, which can be problematic.
"The big one for me was requiring students to out themselves. Where you needed to provide a doctor or therapist note saying you have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria and you need to have a parent sign off and consent to a change of name and pronouns, and teachers have a right to refuse to use those name and pronouns," Smith said. "That makes it entirely unsafe for some kids. Because their parents are extremely against it, and if they even have an inkling, things can go severely south."
"They live in fear they'll be kicked out of their homes or face bullying from their own parents if they were to be discovered," Preston Hildebridle, the executive director of the Pa. Youth Congress, said.
The Red Lion Area School District is not alone in its policy discussions around transgender students in Pennsylvania. Officials with the Pennsylvania Youth Congress, an organization dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ youth issues, say they've gone from aiding with two-to-four school district issues a year to a number hard to keep up with.
Many parents and board members at Red Lion and across the Commonwealth argue policies surrounding transgender students serve to regulate sports and comfortability for everyone.
Hildebridle, a Dallastown graduate, says when the issue is boiled down to its roots, that's not the case.
"In many cases, the facts don't matter," Hildebridle said. "You can lay out the situation and give out all of the information until you're blue in the face. A lot of times, they've already made up their minds and this is the line of politics they're sticking with. The consequences to the student, faculty, educators and school district itself is all secondary."
Regardless of policy position, there's no denying school board meetings, in which public comment is regularly encouraged on all issues, have contained divisive rhetoric regarding transgender issues. Most recently, someone who spoke at a Red Lion Area School District board meeting insinuated transgender individuals as "evil."
Parker's mom was at that meeting.
"These people are up there saying, 'Don't give evil an inch.' Did you just call my child evil? Did you just call me evil? You've never had a conversation with us. They say 'Just love them.' Are you saying that I don't love my child? Because that's a hill I'll die on," Stephanie said.
That rhetoric, rather than facts, is the number one issue the Pa. Youth Congress faces.
"These are issues based on misinformation, fear-mongering generated by people who are trying to create political rifts, raise money and get political careers started in school boards," Hildebridle said.
"To most of them, this is a theoretical discussion. These are opinions formed through fearmongering. To them, Parker's not a person," Stephanie Smith said. "They're focusing on 'Oh, a boy is going into the girl's room and is going to get a picture of them.' That's not the case."
"Right now people are wanting to treat trans people as the villain because it isn't for everyone," Micki Dawson said, the vice president of Lancaster Pride and a transgender man himself.
Despite transitioning in college, he says his high school experience should and could have been different.
"A lot of time when you see those high school policies, it brings me back to being a high schooler who was scared to accept myself and come out and be comfortable in who I was. Being in a more affirming school setting would have led me to a much better high school experience," Dawson said.
Regardless of the policy debate, officials on all sides say they're trying to help students. For transgender students, many say true communication begins with understanding the community.
"A lot of it comes from a lack of understanding or willingness to just sit down and talk with a trans person," Dawson said.
"No student should be distracted from their studies because adults are saying outrageous things about them and their friends," Hildebridle added.
"Finding a community is hard in the first place. The community you thought you had feels smaller and everything outside of that just feels bigger," Parker Smith said.
"I wish people would climb out of their little boxes, maybe have a conversation with us. There are kids that have tried to take their lives over this," Stephanie Smith said. "Be considerate of them and think about when you're standing up saying we're evil, we're in the room listening to you." | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/school-districts-transgender-students-continuing-conversation-fox43-pride-special/521-b5bd562f-e2ae-4c36-9de1-f52db42a157e | 2023-06-01T22:51:17 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/school-districts-transgender-students-continuing-conversation-fox43-pride-special/521-b5bd562f-e2ae-4c36-9de1-f52db42a157e |
The Greene County Republican Party opened and closed an investigation into allegations that Greene County Commissioner Rick Perales recorded a female fellow gymgoer at a local Planet Fitness without her permission.
The local GOP opened its investigation last week after receiving calls from party members, said executive chair of the county GOP Carolyn Uecker.
The party became “aware of allegations against Greene County Commissioner Rick Perales, who allegedly recorded a woman at a fitness center,” according to a statement on the party’s Facebook page.
The Greene County GOP closed the investigation Thursday afternoon with no findings of “registered complaints with local authorities.”
Uecker said the investigation was opened after callers alleged police presence at the Planet Fitness. Neither the Greene County Sheriff’s Office nor the Sugarcreek Twp. Police Department have received any reports of the incident.
In an interview with the Dayton Daily News, Perales said he had filmed the individual while exercising and stopped when he was confronted by another gymgoer. Perales said he does film in the gym for proper weightlifting technique, and has asked for permission from others in the past. He added the matter in question was resolved the same day, after he spoke with Planet Fitness staff.
“I was involved in a minor incident several months ago. It was handled that same afternoon. The fact that this is coming up now is solely political,” Perales said.
Planet Fitness’ mobile device policy says that gymgoers are free to photograph or take video of themselves, but “photographs or video should never include anyone who has not given their prior permission to appear in such images.”
Messages left with Planet Fitness were not returned Thursday.
Uecker said Perales told her that he did film someone who was exercising at the facility, without permission.
“He films for exercise techniques,” she said of their conversation.
About the Author | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/local-gop-investigates-after-county-commissioner-accused-of-filming-woman-in-planet-fitness/ZX5QVETRLVFYDGWAM463U5RVMU/ | 2023-06-01T22:56:34 | 1 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/local-gop-investigates-after-county-commissioner-accused-of-filming-woman-in-planet-fitness/ZX5QVETRLVFYDGWAM463U5RVMU/ |
TACOMA, Wash. — A Tacoma woman with tuberculosis was detained by Pierce County deputies June 1 after previously refusing to isolate and get treatment.
She was detained at her home and booked into a negative pressure room in Pierce County Jail. The room is equipped for isolation, testing and treatment, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.
"We are hopeful she will choose to get the life-saving treatment she needs to treat her tuberculosis," the health department wrote on its blog.
The first order for involuntary detention was issued on Jan. 18, 2022.
Judge Philip Sorenson then issued a civil arrest warrant that authorized law enforcement to detain her beginning March 3.
In April, the woman was found in contempt of court orders after continuing to refuse treatment.
According to court documents, an officer with the Pierce County Corrections Bureau surveilled the woman's home in March. The officer saw the woman leave on a city bus, which dropped her off at a casino. Since then, the woman appeared not to be home. Additionally, her family members were unresponsive when the officer reached out.
Pierce County Corrections Bureau Chief Patricia Jackson wrote in a court declaration that they believed the woman was "actively avoiding" police.
This case is the third in 20 years where the health department has sought a court order to detain someone who is potentially contagious and refusing to seek treatment for tuberculosis.
"In each case like this, we are constantly balancing risk to the public and the civil liberties of the patient," the March statement from the health department reads. "We are always hopeful a patient will choose to comply voluntarily. Seeking to enforce a court order through a civil arrest warrant is always our last resort."
The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department sees about 20 cases of active tuberculosis a year. State law requires healthcare providers to report all active cases.
Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria that often affect the lungs. It is spread through the air. Symptoms, according to the World Health Organization, include cough, fever, night sweats and weight loss. | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/tacoma/tacoma-woman-tuberculosis-detained/281-92a2af36-ca4e-409d-b352-2c4d43be0b8e | 2023-06-01T23:02:35 | 0 | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/tacoma/tacoma-woman-tuberculosis-detained/281-92a2af36-ca4e-409d-b352-2c4d43be0b8e |
PORTLAND, Maine — Kate Shaffer from Ragged Coast Chocolates in Westbrook joined us in the 207 kitchen to show us how to make delicious baked goods at home.
You can either make them from scratch following her recipe for chocolate chunk scones or pick up the pre-mixed kits from Ragged Coast Chocolates. Either way, you’ll have baked goods you can eat warm right out of the oven.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups Maine Grains 75% sifted, all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. baking soda
- ½ tsp. Maine sea salt
- 1 cup chopped bittersweet chocolate
- 8 tbsp. (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Heat your oven to 400° F.
- Measure the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chocolate into a large bowl and stir until combined.
- Grate the cold butter directly into the dry ingredients, tossing it in as you go.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the yolks, cream, and vanilla.
- Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir briskly until you get a crumbly, shaggy dough (sprinkle in more cream as needed). Scrape the dough onto a clean countertop and finish mixing it with your hands.
- Flatten the dough into a 1-inch-thick round and cut into 8 triangles with a very sharp knife.
- Place the triangles onto two parchment-lined baking sheets, sprinkle with sugar if desired, and bake for 25 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through baking.
- Scones will be lightly browned with a cracked crust when done. Remove from the oven and cool before serving. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/207-recipes/making-delicious-chocolate-chunk-scones-at-home-recipe/97-f05a587b-1827-4f10-a268-0d442f5bea25 | 2023-06-01T23:04:46 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/207-recipes/making-delicious-chocolate-chunk-scones-at-home-recipe/97-f05a587b-1827-4f10-a268-0d442f5bea25 |
WALDOBORO, Maine — Sara Redemaker peers into the depth of a big tank and likes what she sees.
Inside the tank, which is full of circulating water, thousands of eels swirl and churn, roiling the surface as they compete for tiny pellets of food.
“We have a million of them,” she says with a smile, waving to the indoor eel farm, which has four long rows of tanks, some empty, but many filled with eels of varying sizes.
Welcome to American Unagi, Redemaker’s dream of taking the tiny, nearly transparent glass eels—also called elvers—that hundreds of Maine fishermen catch each spring – and growing them to full size here in Maine. These eels then are sold to restaurants around the country, which she says have a growing interest in eels for a wider range of Asian-inspired dishes.
“It's crazy. The dishes we see being put together with our eel products,” Redemaker says. “It's not just sushi. It's top Michelin 5-star restaurants [that] are making incredible dishes that make everyone here really proud.”
The annual elver harvest on Maine's coastal streams and rivers lasts about two-and-a-half months and makes serious money for the fishermen. The tiny eels can sell for as much as $2,000 per pound. And until Redemaker’s business came along, those eels were all shipped to Asia, primarily China, where they are grown to size in outdoor ponds.
“A pound of eels (grown to full size) is worth about $14,000. So, it can more than double," Redemaker said.
That’s the value-added aspect that many of Maine’s natural resource businesses hope to create, and it's what inspired Redemaker, who already has a background in aquaculture, to start the business.
“I saw an opportunity to take a resource well-managed in Maine and keep it here in Maine”, Redemaker says.
“When I saw what was happening with the fishery, there is this really valuable resource in Maine. But the entirety of it is being shipped abroad, grown there, then imported back. I asked, 'Why isn’t anybody doing it here?'” Redemaker said.
She began with a small R&D project based in space at the University of Maine’s Darling Marine Center. Then, Redemaker moved it to another aquaculture facility in Franklin, where she began also selling grown eels to restaurants. In 2021, after securing financing, she built the $10.1 million eel farm in Waldoboro.
Now, with two years' worth of eels growing and going to market, she says American Unagi is working as she had hoped it would. Marketing manager Kelsey Woodworth says the company sells around 500,000 pounds of grown eels per year.
“I also look at the U.S. market,” Redemaker says. “We [the United States] import 11 million pounds of eels. I’m going to be producing an eel that’s way better, but it also costs me more to produce than others.
She says the water quality and other controls in the farm result in a much better quality eel than those from Asia.
“There isn’t an eel like ours out in the marketplace. In terms of the quality we produce, but also accountability, and traceability back to us and harvesters, nothing like that. And people recognize that. Eels are a product that the stuff coming in from abroad often has zero accountability, and people take it off menus because of that. We are on menus that have sustainability standards that our eel can be part of," she said.
“It's such an awesome fish, such a unique fish, “ said Woodworth, who was a professional chef before taking on marketing for American Unagi. The business name comes from the Japanese term for the eel, which is common in lakes and rivers in the eastern United States. It's actually born in the sea, swims into coastal streams and into lakes to grow, only returning to the sea to spawn.
She says restaurant interest among chefs has been strong and describes a growing network of chefs who describe how they find ways to cook the eels.
“There's just new ways every day. We get restaurants from all over the world, cooks from all over the world, and here in the U.S.," Woodworth said.
As for the farm and the business, “It's taken a lot of work,” says Redemaker.
Besides her own research and planning, she says it took significant financial support over the years from private investors, Maine Technology Institute (MTI), Coastal Enterprises, Inc.(CEI), and Gorham Savings Bank.
Looking around the farm, and asking how it feels to have the 10-year dream up and running, she paused before answering.
“There’s a lot of emotion,” she replied. “I’m really proud. I’m always amazed by these fish. It takes a lot of work. Not only from me but a lot of love from my team.” | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/from-harvest-to-full-grown-maine-eels-find-a-market-animals/97-ee3947ad-f5ce-41dd-b84b-ea35bc74a440 | 2023-06-01T23:04:52 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/from-harvest-to-full-grown-maine-eels-find-a-market-animals/97-ee3947ad-f5ce-41dd-b84b-ea35bc74a440 |
BANGOR, Maine — One person is seriously injured after crashing a motorcycle in Bangor Wednesday night.
Around 9 p.m., an officer with the Bangor Police Department tried to stop a group of motorcyclists who were reportedly driving at a high rate of speed from Union Street to I-95 northbound, a release from the police department said.
"The officer followed the group up to Hogan Road with lights and siren activated, where they slowed and he believed they were pulling over," the release said. "As the group turned onto Hogan Road they accelerated again, going south towards State Street."
According to the release, the police officer turned off the lights and siren due to the excessive speed of the motorcyclists and ceased to attempt to stop them.
"As the officer continued down Hogan Road, a motorcycle was observed on State Street, going towards Veazie," the release said. "The officer believed it to be one of the motorcycles involved in the attempt at a traffic stop, and turned down State Street, losing sight of the motorcycle until reaching Meadowbrook Road, approximately one-half mile from the last sighting, where the motorcycle was on its side, with no rider in sight."
The police officer then called for an ambulance and began a search for the driver of the motorcycle. Police said the driver was found 200 yards down the road toward State Street on the "non-road side of the guardrail."
The driver, identified as Cole Thomas, 18, of Old Town, was taken to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center with "serious injuries," the release stated.
Bangor detectives continue to investigate the crash, but speed is believed to be a factor, police said.
Police ask anyone who may have information to contact Det. Andrea Gurecki at andrea.gurecki@bangormaine.gov. You can make anonymous tips to 207-947-7382, ext. 3. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/bangor/old-town-man-seriously-injured-after-crashing-motorcycle-in-bangor-old-town/97-83c69655-6bba-4965-ba49-40d996ec9c41 | 2023-06-01T23:04:58 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/bangor/old-town-man-seriously-injured-after-crashing-motorcycle-in-bangor-old-town/97-83c69655-6bba-4965-ba49-40d996ec9c41 |
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Willard Beach in South Portland is currently closed to the public due to a force main pipe that burst.
A spokesperson for the City of South Portland said in a release that the closure is effective immediately until further notice.
The force main pipe reportedly burst near Southern Maine Community College around 4:30 p.m., the spokesperson said.
According to the release, additional information will be released as it becomes available. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/south-portland/willard-beach-closed-due-to-pipe-burst/97-110049dc-407b-431c-aed2-aae01f89bf80 | 2023-06-01T23:05:04 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/south-portland/willard-beach-closed-due-to-pipe-burst/97-110049dc-407b-431c-aed2-aae01f89bf80 |
New bookstore already successful in downtown Salina after soft opening
Although it won't celebrate its grand opening until later this month, customers are already buying books and telling their friends about a new bookstore in downtown Salina.
Red Fern Booksellers, at 106 S. Santa Fe Ave., had a soft opening on May 19 and people were clearly excited to see what the store had to offer.
"We spent a week shelving, organizing, putting signs up, entering inventory and receiving all the orders," said Harley Hamilton, the store's owner. "Then Thursday (May 18)...we thought...we have enough books, maybe we should just unlock the doors tomorrow."
Employee Jerzee Mullins then placed a quick and simple post that night on the store's Facebook page telling people it would be open the next day at 10 a.m., sparking a busy weekend for the store.
"People were here at 9:45, lined up, waiting to get in," Hamilton said. "It was nonstop, all day Friday (and) Saturday (with people)."
More:New exhibit at Salina Art Center explores 'Point of View'
The time and the place for a bookstore
Hamilton, who is originally from Mississippi, said he has been interested in reading and in books since he was a child, even taking inspiration from the first childhood book he remembers reading, "Where the Red Fern Grows," by Wilson Rawls, for the name of the store.
An avid traveler, Hamilton met his husband Guy Walker, a Salina native, while both were in Savannah, Georgia. They eventually moved to Kansas City and then found their way back to Walker's hometown in 2013.
Though he spent the past 12 years or so as a pharmacist, Hamilton has always thought about opening his own bookstore, and, after embracing Salina as his own, he said has enjoyed seeing the progress that has been made on rejuvenating parts of the city, especially the downtown.
"With all the stuff happening (here), I think it's the perfect time (for this)," Hamilton said.
He said he saw that there were plenty of restaurants and bars, but he thought the downtown could use more shops. He also knows from experience that visiting a local bookstore is something that visitors do.
"I've always been a reader, so every time we go on vacation we always end up at the local bookstore," Hamilton said. "It's where you meet really cool and interesting people and they'll tell you places to see and do that are not in the guidebooks."
Buying local benefits the Salina economy
Hamilton said another reason for opening Red Fern was to make buying books directly from an independent seller an easier experience for the people of Salina.
"I was tired of driving all the way to Lawrence or to Wichita just to buy a (new) book," Hamilton said.
While he understands the convenience of buying books from large online retailers, Hamilton said the experience of going to a local store is something that can't be replicated online.
"We're a local business, so the dollars stay in the local economy," Hamilton said. "We're actually real humans who recommend you book, not just an algorithm that's also wanting you to buy deodorant while you're online."
Finally, Hamilton said the biggest benefit he sees in having a local store that sells new books is the personal, face-to-face connections that can be made.
"We love to meet people and hope to be that friendly environment where everyone feels welcome," Hamilton said. "You don't get that on Amazon. Jeff (Bezos) doesn't talk to (customers)."
Some of that connection extends to things other than just buying books, but also with events Red Fern has plans for such as book readings, signings and other author events, book clubs and other things.
Red Fern Booksellers open now in downtown Salina
Right now, Red Fern Booksellers is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, although with the success that as already been seen, Hamilton said he may expand those hours.
To find out more information about the bookstore including potential updated hours and information about its grand opening scheduled for June 24, visit its website at redfernbooksellers.com, find it on Facebook by searching Red Fern Booksellers or stop in during business hours, get greeted by Hamilton's dog Ollie or one of the knowledgeable human employees at the 106 S. Santa Fe Ave. location. | https://www.salina.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/salinas-newest-bookstore-is-local-downtown-and-already-a-success/70268457007/ | 2023-06-01T23:05:21 | 0 | https://www.salina.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/salinas-newest-bookstore-is-local-downtown-and-already-a-success/70268457007/ |
Saline County begins deep dive into budget, with a focus on trimming expenses
Saline County's Board of Commissioners began to look at a preliminary budget for the upcoming fiscal year, with a focus on trimming down expenses and limiting potential tax increases.
Department heads and other county staff presented their requested portions of the budget at the commission's weekly meeting May 30. In the next couple months, the county will continue to revise and refine the budget, narrowing the requests made by the county departments and non-county entities.
Last week, the commission got a brief first look at the preliminary budget. At that time, County Administrator Phillip Smith-Hanes noted property-tax supported fund requests were initially 16.66% higher than what was adopted in 2023. Among other county staff, the commissioners noted that kind of increase is not possible.
Last week:Expenses higher than predicted: Here's what to know about Saline County's budget process
This week, the commission got a first-hand look at what accounted for the unofficial increase and began looking at what areas of the requested budget could be paired down.
"I had people that kind of attacked me this weekend that said taxes were going to go up 16%," said Commission Chair Bob Vidricksen. "That 16% is merely a number that came out based on if we were to reward every single request that came before us. I assure you... that's not going to happen. That number is not going to be 16% or even close as far as I'm concerned."
Vidricksen and other commissioners said they want to do their part to be mindful of the taxpayer dollar, while acknowledging costs have gone up for goods and services.
"It's going to go up; we have inflation," Vidricksen said. "We got to take care of our employees, the fuel costs are up, et cetera, but it's not going to be 16% increase in your taxes."
What's next in the budgeting process?
Presenting an overview to the commission on May 30, and meeting with County department heads and staff May 31, has launched the more public part of the budgeting process.
Following the May 30 study session, the county clerk will prepare valuations and Smith-Hanes will prepare a recommended budget to departments and present it to the commission June 20.
Any appeals to the recommended budget will be heard by the commission July 11. On July 18, commissioners will determine whether to hold a Revenue Neutral Rate hearing so proper notices can be provided to the public.
Official budget adoption is anticipated to be Aug. 22 for fiscal year 2024.
Kendrick Calfee has been a reporter with the Salina Journal since 2022, primarily covering county government and education. You can reach him at kcalfee@gannett.com or on Twitter @calfee_kc. | https://www.salina.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/saline-county-focuses-on-trimming-expenses-this-budget-season/70270428007/ | 2023-06-01T23:05:27 | 0 | https://www.salina.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/saline-county-focuses-on-trimming-expenses-this-budget-season/70270428007/ |
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — A 14-year-old painter and a 92-year-old quilter are among the local Black artists featured at a Juneteenth exhibit opening Friday night at Fischman Gallery downtown.
The 6-9 p.m. opening reception is free and will feature live music, historical information about Juneteenth, and several artists’ first public showings. The “Say It Loud!” exhibit runs through June 30 and is Fischman Gallery’s second annual collaboration with UMOJA Arts and Culture, a local non-profit.
“All the work is great,” UMOJA’s Angelitti Bradley said Thursday as gallery owner Nancy Fischman and volunteers finished hanging paintings and setting up displays. “It gives all the artists an opportunity to showcase their talent.”
The show also gives the community a chance to learn more about Juneteenth and to see its connections to art and self expression.
“Juneteenth is all about freedom and so the freedom to express yourself through the arts is a way to celebrate Juneteenth,” Bradley said. “A lot of people don’t know the history of Juneteenth so you come and we’ll have that history presented to you on the opening night.”
The art ranges from paintings and baskets to quilts and a collection of homemade shoes by Johnson City artist Deborah Grey — each with its own story that honors women.
“Each shoe has a story that it tells, so come and see her shoes and read what the shoe means,” Bradley said.
Among the painters represented are 14-year-old Bella Wall and two other teenagers, Hanifa Mohammed and Dakari Wheeler. Wheeler’s three pieces display a depth and skill that struck both Bradley and Fischman.
“These are awesome and he will be here (Friday), and maybe he can tell the story of who these people are and why he did the art for them,” Bradley said of Wheeler’s three portrait-style paintings.
At the other end of the age spectrum, 92-year-old Magdalene Storey has several quilts on display. They’ll be joined before the opening by another one.
“We will reveal a quilt made by students from the Langston Centre and the Carver Center,” Bradley said. “Pam Faw, who works here, helped them put pieces together and it all ties in with the Underground Railroad. So it’s all history.”
Bradley said many people know UMOJA only for its annual festival in late summer, but the non-profit has a broader reach.
“We do a lot of different events like this art show, and we do an evening with the elders where they tell stories about how they grew up here in Johnson City, we do puppet shows — we do all kinds of stuff.”
The gallery is in Atelier 133 at 133 Commerce Street. The “Say It Loud” show runs through June 30.
Additional artists include Javan Collie, Jason Flack, Diara Redd, Pam Faw, Dawn Smith, Pam Faw and Charlotte Faw. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/juneteenth-art-exhibit-opening-friday-has-local-flair/ | 2023-06-01T23:09:33 | 1 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/juneteenth-art-exhibit-opening-friday-has-local-flair/ |
ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL)- United Way of Southwest Virginia and the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia have partnered with Food City to obtain an 85,000-square-foot building that formerly housed a Kmart. The space will be used to create a Regional Child Care and Workforce Development Center.
The Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia has committed $4 million towards the new facility. Bill Hayter, Chair of the Wellspring Foundation, said the project aligns with their goal.
“The creation of a regional child care center touches on all five of the areas of interest to the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia,” said Hayter. “It’s an honor to be able to provide support to a project of this magnitude that will have a transformational impact on our region.”
Travis Staton, President and CEO of United Way of Southwest Virginia, said this resource hub will have a big impact on the community.
“This building is going to be a tremendous asset for the region, for Southwest Virginia,” said Staton. “To be able to really help people get back to work, but also build a workforce of tomorrow.”
Staton said some issues the community faces are a decline in childcare centers and fewer employees in the workforce.
“This project will help address that gap in this community,” said Staton. “We’re working to identify additional locations where we will be adding in the future additional child care facilities.”
Part of the space will be used for youth and adult workforce development programming. About a fourth of the building will house an early childhood care center.
The United Way and The Wellspring Foundation said the lack of childcare is a big barrier for people to enter the workforce. Sean McMurray, Executive Director of the Wellspring Foundation, said this resource hub will help with those issues.
“There are a number of factors that include a lack of childcare,” said McMurray. “There are also other kinds of challenges, one is making sure we’ve got people trained with the skills that we need.”
The project is expected to be finished by the summer of 2024. More information is available online. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/multifunctional-resource-center-being-built-in-former-abingdon-kmart/ | 2023-06-01T23:09:39 | 1 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/multifunctional-resource-center-being-built-in-former-abingdon-kmart/ |
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