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North Side Jun 2, 2023 45 min ago Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Jorgensen Switzer Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save VALEDICTORIANMack Jorgensen, daughter of Liz Jorgensen, plans to attend University of Denver. SALUTATORIANPeter Switzer, son of Peter and Delicia Switzer, plans to attend Purdue University Fort Wayne. Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Most Popular Fort Wayne cardiologist ordered to pay $2.67 million to former patient Lutheran Hospital to end heart transplant, inpatient burn services Who could Komets target as next head coach? Here are 15 possibilities Woodlan senior eyes pharmacy career, leaves mark on New Haven Recent divorce filings in Allen County Stocks Market Data by TradingView | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/north-side/article_744dd0da-fddc-11ed-8f8d-a3b232dee5b3.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:05 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/north-side/article_744dd0da-fddc-11ed-8f8d-a3b232dee5b3.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Noah Haefner, son of Laura Michnay, plans to attend Purdue University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology to study engineering.
SALUTATORIAN
McKailyn Mary Lort, daughter of Teresa Lynn Johnson, plans to attend Ball State University to study math education and Spanish. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/northrop/article_8fb9d7ac-fddb-11ed-a4f3-8b09524f3ba0.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:11 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/northrop/article_8fb9d7ac-fddb-11ed-a4f3-8b09524f3ba0.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Aaron Cron, son of Chris and Kari Cron, plans to attend Ohio State University to study biology.
SALUTATORIAN
Gabrielle Stober, daughter of Trey and Tafani Stober, plans to attend University of Kentucky to study business.
Aaron Cron, son of Chris and Kari Cron, plans to attend Ohio State University to study biology.
Gabrielle Stober, daughter of Trey and Tafani Stober, plans to attend University of Kentucky to study business. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/parkway/article_73275148-fdd9-11ed-969d-a79056614ce5.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:17 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/parkway/article_73275148-fdd9-11ed-969d-a79056614ce5.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Haley Manz, daughter of Scott and Sara Manz, plans to attend Defiance College to study graphic design.
SALUTATORIAN
Hayden Mullen, son of Chad and Heather Mullen, plans to attend Ohio State University to study neuroscience.
Haley Manz, daughter of Scott and Sara Manz, plans to attend Defiance College to study graphic design.
Hayden Mullen, son of Chad and Heather Mullen, plans to attend Ohio State University to study neuroscience. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/paulding/article_722fa9cc-fbed-11ed-a9df-ffaaa96275cd.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:24 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/paulding/article_722fa9cc-fbed-11ed-a9df-ffaaa96275cd.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Sydnie Singh, daughter of Jas Singh and Mayw Lan Wong plans to attend University of Cincinnati to study health science.
SALUTATORIAN
Natalie Smith, daughter of Allen Smith, Sarah and Mark Matson, plans to attend Indiana University to study nonprofit management and leadership.
No. 3
Landon Miller, son of Todd and Cheryl Miller, plans to attend Trine University to study biomedical engineering.
No. 4
Bruce D’Rosa, son of Cecil and Genevieve D’Rosa, plans to attend Purdue University Fort Wayne to study mechanical engineering.
No. 5
Nadia Paniagua, daughter of Miguel Paniagua and Nadia Reyes, plans to attend Indiana University to study nursing. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/snider/article_6e65e692-fdca-11ed-927f-af2cf0deef71.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:30 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/snider/article_6e65e692-fdca-11ed-927f-af2cf0deef71.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Brooklyn Bixler, daughter of Scott and Joni Bixler of Berne, plans to attend Taylor University.
SALUTATORIAN
Corrine Calapan, daughter of Danny and Catherine Green, plans to attend University of Notre Dame to study neuroscience.
Brooklyn Bixler, daughter of Scott and Joni Bixler of Berne, plans to attend Taylor University.
Corrine Calapan, daughter of Danny and Catherine Green, plans to attend University of Notre Dame to study neuroscience. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/south-adams/article_ecacb12c-fbf7-11ed-9abf-6b057fbc448f.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:36 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/south-adams/article_ecacb12c-fbf7-11ed-9abf-6b057fbc448f.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Fiona Gochtovtt-Stine, daughter of Laura and Tessa Gochtovtt-Stine, plans to attend Indiana University.
SALUTATORIAN
Grace Gillie, daughter of Sam and Karen Gillie, plans to attend University of Notre Dame.
Fiona Gochtovtt-Stine, daughter of Laura and Tessa Gochtovtt-Stine, plans to attend Indiana University.
Grace Gillie, daughter of Sam and Karen Gillie, plans to attend University of Notre Dame. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/south-side/article_1492aa48-fddd-11ed-bb06-5f2a7838b3f5.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:42 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/south-side/article_1492aa48-fddd-11ed-bb06-5f2a7838b3f5.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Olivia Mueller, daughter of Steven and Lisa Mueller, plans to attend Ohio Northern University to study mechanical engineering.
SALUTATORIAN
Dakota Schaffner, daughter of Sara Schaffner and Brian Schaffner, plans to attend Michigan State University to study civil engineering. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/tinora/article_e6cf962e-fdce-11ed-8778-fb2bbb2f4edf.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:48 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/tinora/article_e6cf962e-fdce-11ed-8778-fb2bbb2f4edf.html |
VALEDICTORIANS
Molly Moriatry, daughter of Jenny and Stephen Moriatry, plans to attend Purdue University to study business.
Alexandra Ellenwood, daughter of Stephanie and Jeff Ellenwood, plans to attend Ivy Tech Community College to study criminal justice and forensics.
SALUTATORIAN
Abigail Bowers, daughter of Carrie and Jeremy Bowers, plans to attend University of Saint Francis to pursue pre-dental studies. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/tippecanoe-valley/article_72168da0-fff0-11ed-b0ba-d39b3eafecfc.html | 2023-06-03T04:46:55 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/tippecanoe-valley/article_72168da0-fff0-11ed-b0ba-d39b3eafecfc.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Nadia Whalen, daughter of Dave and Roxanne Whalen, plans to attend Purdue University to study environmental engineering.
SALATUTORIAN
Kiah Farrington, daughter Darrell and Janet Farrington, plans to attend Purdue University Northwest to study computer science. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/wawasee/article_fafd9c10-fdcc-11ed-bb6f-93a68eb54b33.html | 2023-06-03T04:47:01 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/wawasee/article_fafd9c10-fdcc-11ed-bb6f-93a68eb54b33.html |
TOP STUDENTS
Kiara Bahena, daughter of Ramiro and Katrina Bahena, plans to attend the University of Saint Francis to study nursing.
Rylee Miller, daughter of Seth and Amber Miller, plans study middle childhood education for science and math.
Sydnee Sinn, daughter of Joshua and Christina Sinn, plans to attend Michigan State University to study biology before pursuing a medical degree.
Kara Stoller, daughter of Neil and Sandra Stoller, plans to attend Purdue University Fort Wayne to study secondary Spanish education.
Laura Thornell, daughter of Jason and Beth Thornell, plans to attend the University of Saint Francis to study biology before pursuing a physician assistant degree. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/wayne-trace/article_ec6b90e6-fb45-11ed-901c-1ffb08b5fcd8.html | 2023-06-03T04:47:07 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/wayne-trace/article_ec6b90e6-fb45-11ed-901c-1ffb08b5fcd8.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Lily Stahl, daughter of Doug and Susan Stahl, plans to attend Purdue University.
SALUTATORIANS
Rachael Bliven, daughter of Michael and Charmagne Bliven, plans to attend Ball State University.
Natalie Chaney, daughter of Cordell and Jessica Chaney, plans to attend University of Saint Francis. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/wayne/article_85d8327c-fddd-11ed-b155-c3bda2866f41.html | 2023-06-03T04:47:13 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/wayne/article_85d8327c-fddd-11ed-b155-c3bda2866f41.html |
VALEDICTORIAN
Lucy Gongaware, daughter of Micki and Jeff Gongaware, plans to attend Indiana University to pursue pre-dental studies.
SALUTATORIAN
Neveah Whitaker, daughter of Jennifer Trimm and Scott Whitaker, plans to attend Indiana University to pursue pre-law studies. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/woodlan/article_b75e2152-fbf4-11ed-901e-7bf1f74dbb02.html | 2023-06-03T04:47:19 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/schools/education-listings/woodlan/article_b75e2152-fbf4-11ed-901e-7bf1f74dbb02.html |
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin city leaders are hoping to improve safety along a busy stretch of Barton Springs Road that has been prone to crashes, and a yet another recent wreck has pushed them to exacerbate that action.
The Austin Transportation and Public Works (TPW) is proposing a Vision Zero-led Safety Pilot Project, which would change how the road is structured in order to give everyone who drives, walks and bikes along Barton Springs Road safer access.
On April 8, 2022, 10 people were seriously injured after a speeding truck slammed into a car and sent it into a crowd on the sidewalk.
Months after the crash, city officials reduced the speed limit from 35 MPH to 30 MPH in an effort to encourage people to drive more safely, but learned it didn't make much of a difference and found that more than 70 drivers per day still drive at least 15 mph over the limit.
"Having such a severe crash with such major impacts, really raised a flag for us to take a look closer at that stretch of road," said Austin Transportation and Public Works Transportation Peace Officer Lewis Leff.
In a memo sent to the mayor and city council members, officials with TPW pointed out that from May 2018 through April 2023, there were more than 240 documented crashes on Barton Springs Road between Stratford Drive and South Lamar.
Leff said that they are proposing a redesigned road, with the purpose of mitigating high speeds.
"We might not solve all the crashes that happen there because as long as there's people on the roadways, there's going to be some mistakes made and some crashes that happen. But we're hoping that those crashes don't have to be fatal," he said.
"Design is how speeds are mitigated. If you're driving on a neighborhood street, you're not typically going 75 miles per hour like you are on a freeway, and that's because they're designed differently for different purposes," said Leff.
The plan is for the project to be in place for 12 months, and before anything is finalized on the project, city officials plan to talk to residents and businesses in the area through the month of June to get feedback and provide a project update in July.
Raul Moncada is one of the ten people who was hurt in last year's crash. To this day he said he still hasn't been back to the scene of the crash or along Barton Springs Road altogether.
Moncada suffered a head injury and bleeding to the brain. He doesn't believe he has any physical long-term effects from the crash -- only emotional.
"It's definitely something that happened and I'll deal with it, you know, as long as I have to and need to," Moncada said.
Moncada said he welcomes the idea of a new safety plan and encourages people to give their input on the project, and abide by the rules of the road the best they can.
"I think these changes will help in me trying to actually drive down there," Moncada said. "I still think about it.... I'm alive. I'm here. I'm fine. But if something positive could come out of it, that'd be great."
A lawsuit for the crash was filed on behalf of Moncada.
Brad Bonilla told KVUE on Friday that there are currently three lawsuits -- including Moncada's -- that have been filed at the Travis County District Court for April's wreck.
Bradford explained there is a plan to file a motion to consolidate and bring each of the lawsuits together, which could be filed as early as next week.
"We're not saying the businesses had all the fault. We're not saying the cars had all the fault. We're saying we want all the parties that potentially have a share in the fault to be put together in the same lawsuit so they can make a decision on who shares responsibility based on the facts and the evidence," said Bonilla. | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/city-officials-hope-to-improve-austin-road-prone-to-crashes/269-bd21b038-fd17-47ea-8bfb-d77e7bd34e1b | 2023-06-03T05:05:43 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/city-officials-hope-to-improve-austin-road-prone-to-crashes/269-bd21b038-fd17-47ea-8bfb-d77e7bd34e1b |
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Contact Us | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/great-weather-adds-to-a-splendid-weekend-with-several-huge-events/3578366/ | 2023-06-03T05:26:00 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/great-weather-adds-to-a-splendid-weekend-with-several-huge-events/3578366/ |
Ugly start in D.C. dooms last-place Phillies: 'This is a really humbling game' originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
WASHINGTON -- Even on a night when they made their biggest comeback of the season, the Phillies were unable to snap their latest lengthy losing streak, dropping a fifth straight game, 8-7, to the Nationals.
They were down six runs before the second inning was over, a shock to the system on a night when ace Zack Wheeler was on the mound. Wheeler was coming off eight scoreless innings with 12 strikeouts in Atlanta against the most powerful offense in the league but couldn't find his command against the team with the fewest homers and lowest slugging percentage in the NL.
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He was hurt big-time by his outfield defense. The Phillies let three catchable balls drop in for hits in the first two innings and two of them were one-out doubles that changed the trajectory of Wheeler's night and the game overall.
The Phillies are 25-32, as far under .500 as they've been since Rob Thomson's first night as manager last season. They are tied with the Nationals for last in the NL East. They're 11-22 on the road, better than only the Athletics and Rockies.
"This game is a really humbling game," said Nick Castellanos, who had his best night in a Phillies uniform with four hits and two home runs. "It forever owes you nothing. It doesn't matter how hard you worked the year previous or what you had in the past. You have to come and earn your meal every single night. I think it's just a reminder."
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The Nationals don't hit for much power but make a ton of contact. The Phillies' issues in the field began immediately. Kyle Schwarber took a poor route and was unable to catch a line drive by Jeimer Candelario in the first inning. Brandon Marsh broke in rather than back on a liner right at him, which sailed over his head for a CJ Abrams double in the second. A soft blooper also fell a foot or so in front of Castellanos in the first inning.
Those three plays cost Wheeler runs and perhaps a few dozen pitches. He labored through the first two innings on 61 pitches and his night might have ended after five outs had he not retired Corey Dickerson to end a high-stress second. That said, it wasn't all bad luck. Wheeler allowed his share of solid contact, as well.
"That cost us, cost Wheeler some pitches, but I was happy that they came back and kept fighting," Thomson said. "It looked like Schwarbs kind of took a banana route on that, and Marsh -- line drives right at you in center field are tough because it's kind of right at you and hard to judge. He came in a couple of steps and then tried to track it back and didn't get there."
Wheeler's short start was the last thing the Phillies needed with a bullpen game coming Saturday. He lasted just 3⅔ innings. Left-hander Matt Strahm will start the middle game and Thomson said he can go two-plus innings. Ranger Suarez starts Sunday.
"I probably pushed Wheels a little bit longer than I wanted to," Thomson said. "He was at 60-some pitches after two innings. That's a heavy workload. But because of the bullpen day, he said he was fine, he wanted to give us as much as he possibly could and he did that. That was big of him."
The Phillies' offense finally showed up after mustering three runs in a three-game sweep at Citi Field. They came back from down six runs Friday night to tie the game at 7-7 in the eighth inning but were unable to pick up the one more hit they needed.
Castellanos had a whale of a night. He went 4-for-5 with a solo homer to right-center, a two-run homer to left-center, a two-run single and a ninth-inning double that put the tying run in scoring position with one out. He went 3-for-3 with a sacrifice fly Thursday. He's looked like Nick Castellanos this season.
Trea Turner and J.T. Realmuto, two of the most skilled all-around players in baseball, have been a different story. Their underperformance continued. They both popped out to end the game with a man on second base. Realmuto went 0-for-5 with four groundouts to the left side and the game-ending pop-up to first base. He continues to expand the strike zone. He is 3-for-43 in his last 14 games, hitting .070 without an RBI. He'd hit .386 the prior three weeks. He's been streaky at the plate since arriving in Philadelphia and this has been his coldest period in those five seasons.
The Phillies have lost five in a row for the third time since May 1.
"We need to be more consistent, that’s it," Bryce Harper said. "It’s not good to go through streaks like this when you’re trying to be a winning ball club. Just need to be better.”
Thomson shook up the lineup Friday night. Schwarber led off, Bryson Stott hit second and Harper hit third, three consecutive lefties. The Nationals have no left-handers in the bullpen which made the idea appealing. The 1-2 of Stott and Turner also jsut hasn't worked out. When Schwarber led Friday's game off with a single and Stott followed with a walk, it was only the second time in the Phillies' last 41 games that their first two hitters reached base in the first inning.
The Nationals' lack of a lefty reliever nearly tilted the game when the top of the Phillies' order was due up, trailing by one in the top of the eighth. Schwarber hit a potential double-play ball back up the middle but second baseman Luis Garcia's throw to first was wide, allowing Brandon Marsh to score the tying run. The Phils had their shots. They just couldn't come up with one more big hit.
"There were definitely a lot of positives as a group, showing some fight when it would have been really, really easy to lay down and allow the way the game started to be the way it finished," Castellanos said. "Obviously, we didn't come through and we walk away with a loss, which is not ideal, it's frustrating."
Connor Brogdon took the L by walking nine-hole hitter Alex Call with two outs in the eighth, throwing a wild pitch and giving up the game-winning single to Lane Thomas.
"This one is on me, really," Wheeler said. "I think tonight showed who we are. Guys battled back, we just couldn't finish it out. We know who we have in this room and what we have to do. It starts with us starting pitchers. Keep runs off the board early, keep the momentum on our side. I think that's the big key for us."
The Phils are guaranteed a losing road trip and look to salvage a piece of it by winning two in a row this weekend. Lefty Mackenzie Gore, the Nationals' best starting pitcher, is on the mound Saturday. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/phillies-nl-east-road-trip-goes-from-bad-to-worse-with-ugly-start-to-nationals-series/3578377/ | 2023-06-03T05:26:06 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/phillies-nl-east-road-trip-goes-from-bad-to-worse-with-ugly-start-to-nationals-series/3578377/ |
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Contact Us | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/wear-orange-weekend-honors-victims-and-survivors-of-gun-violence/3578372/ | 2023-06-03T05:26:12 | 1 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/wear-orange-weekend-honors-victims-and-survivors-of-gun-violence/3578372/ |
INDIANAPOLIS — More families and kids are ready to hop into a pool or lake to stay cool this weekend with temperatures staying high.
But one family is urging people to stay cautious after their toddler ended up in the water and nearly drowned last year.
Running around the playroom inside Peyton Manning Children's Hospital, 3-year-old Asher Kennedy keeps mom and dad, Bailey and Caleb Kennedy, on their toes.
Watching him play and laugh is a welcome sight for his parents.
Just last year, Asher gave his parents the scare of their lives. Caleb said he was outside in the barn with Asher when Asher wandered off. Caleb said he ran out searching for him, checking his neighbor's ponds.
"I'd turned around and went to the front one instead and that's when I saw him and ran and jumped in the water, got him out as quick as I could," he said.
As soon as Asher was out of the water, Caleb said he dialed 911.
"My neighbor came out and she started talking to them on the phone while I did the CPR, got all the nasty stuff out of his mouth," Caleb said.
He performed CPR until EMS workers took over - CPR that helped save his son's life. An ambulance quickly rushed Asher to Peyton Manning Children's Hospital as Bailey rushed over.
"Of course, I'm like panicking and just praying immediately but I just ... I knew it was going to be OK," she said.
Asher was intubated for six days and in the hospital for ten. Thankfully, he was able to make a full recovery.
Dr. Stephanie Gardner, EMS medical director for Hancock Regional Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent said that quick care saved Asher's life that day.
"Depending on what happens during the event, when the patient comes out of the water, the kiddo comes out of the water, if they're not breathing at all as in Asher's case, then the right thing to is exactly what Caleb did, is start CPR," Gardner said.
Many kids aren't as lucky.
Drowning is the leading cause of death in kids 1 to 4 years old. Every year, 4,000 kids die from drownings.
If a child goes under, Gardner said immediately getting them out of the water and starting CPR is vital.
"Very, very important," she said. "The brain starts to have cell death from not having oxygen within minutes, four minutes, we start to see issues with brain and neurologic recovery."
It's critical, she said, to keep a close eye on kids in the water even if they know how to swim.
Caleb said it's tough knowing his son was hurt on his watch, but it's why they wanted to share their family's story, urging other parents to take every precaution possible this summer.
"There's nothing important enough that you're doing or trying to do to take your eyes off of them because it can happen in a split second," Caleb said.
And now, they're treasuring every moment, every hug, every fun playtime with Asher every chance they get.
Gardner said if you can't take a class, consider just watching a YouTube video on CPR to learn the technique. And, she said, in case of an emergency don't hesitate to jump in and help.
“Put your hands on the chest and start. You’re not going to hurt them. That’s one thing I hear all the time when people decide not to start CPR, is I didn’t know if I was going to do it right, I didn’t want to hurt them, I didn’t want to make it worse. None of that is true. You’re not going to make it worse, you’re not going to hurt them. The only thing you can do is help,” Gardner said. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indianapolis-family-urges-safety-awareness-for-parents-after-toddlers-near-drowning/531-34e286b3-bcde-4334-a5e5-8be5dee3d3e0 | 2023-06-03T05:36:49 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indianapolis-family-urges-safety-awareness-for-parents-after-toddlers-near-drowning/531-34e286b3-bcde-4334-a5e5-8be5dee3d3e0 |
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — There are some new details in the investigation of the burned body of Jermeria Fowler found Thursday night.
Birmingham Police initially reported Fowler had gone to make a Facebook Marketplace purchase before she was reported missing. Officer Truman Fitzgerald says while they haven’t ruled out a Facebook Marketplace meet-up completely, detectives have uncovered facts that may point to other situations.
As the investigation continues, the case is raising concerns about meeting strangers face-to-face for online sales.
Some police departments like Birmingham have designated themselves as safe meetup spots for people buying or selling things from social media. The death of Fowler has left some people with more worries than before.
“It’s scary. It is scary,” says Terri Wilson, an admin for the Shelby County Marketplace Facebook group.
Wilson has been buying and selling on social media for years, even advertising yard sales like the one she held Friday.
“Some people have come up and said ‘Oh yeah, we’re here because we saw the ad’ so, yeah, you get a lot of publicity that way but you can get a lot of danger that way. Predators are going to look,” Wilson said.
Wilson takes a lot of precautions to try and keep herself safe when meeting people from social media like researching the person messaging her, making sure someone else knows the time and location of the meet and only meeting in public places during the day.
“Everybody needs to just check on one another and if you can take somebody with you, that’s the best bet too,” says Wilson. “I’ve got a 150-pound Rottweiler I’ll throw in the truck with me too.”
Wilson made a post on the Shelby County Marketplace Facebook page encouraging everyone to be extra careful and aware of their surroundings.
Birmingham Police says even though it’s not definite that Fowler was killed during a Facebook Marketplace meeting, it’s a good time to remind everyone of safe practices.
“If they have any doubts or any trouble meeting you at a place such as a police department or a public place, that’s a red flag,” Fitzgerald said.
BPD says all four precincts and headquarters can be used as safe meeting places at any time of day. | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/birmingham-police-encourages-precautions-when-meeting-people-for-social-media-sales/ | 2023-06-03T05:36:55 | 1 | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/birmingham-police-encourages-precautions-when-meeting-people-for-social-media-sales/ |
Focusing on soil, groundwater at former K-25 site
The Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management (OREM) and contractor UCOR have shifted to soil and groundwater remediation at the East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP) in the homestretch of a cleanup that took down more than 500 aging, contaminated structures.
With crews set to finish excavating and removing contaminated soil from the site next year, the spotlight is turning to groundwater.
“We’ve made great strides in reducing risks and restoring the environment at ETTP,” OREM Regulatory Specialist Roger Petrie stated in a news release from UCOR. “As we near completion on the remaining soil cleanup projects, groundwater remediation is the final effort to achieve our mission at the site.”
ETTP is divided into three sections for groundwater remediation planning. One section is the Main Plant Area, which encompasses most of the operations area at the former K-25 enrichment complex. Another section is the area where the large K-31 and K-33 uranium enrichment buildings once stood. The third section is called Zone 1, which is the area immediately surrounding the Main Plant and K-31 and K-33 areas.
Planning took a major step forward recently when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation approved OREM’s proposed plans for addressing groundwater in the Main Plant and K-31 and K-33 areas.
OREM hosted a public meeting recently to discuss the preferred approach for groundwater remediation in the Main Plant Area. The meeting provided an opportunity for attendees to share comments.
The preferred approach for groundwater remediation in the Main Plant Area is a process called enhanced in situ bioremediation. A widely used technology for treating contaminated waste, according to the release,it involves injecting microorganisms and a carbon source, such as vegetable oil, into the ground. The microorganisms reduce or detoxify the contaminants.
“Because site conditions differ, no single remediation technology is applicable for all areas at ETTP,” said Kevin Ironside, Environmental Programs and Planning manager with UCOR. “A different approach is being recommended for the K-31 and K-33 area as the most effective means for addressing groundwater remediation.”
For the K-31 and K-33 Area, OREM is proposing a process called monitored natural attenuation, along with land use controls. Monitored natural attenuation relies on natural processes that reduce contaminant concentrations in groundwater. Using this process as the remedial action involves monitoring groundwater conditions with land use controls limiting potential exposures.
The public can provide comments on that proposed plan through June 12.
The proposed remedies for Zone 1 and associated public involvement opportunities will be announced later.
Over the past two decades, OREM has transformed the former uranium enrichment complex into a multi-use industrial center, national park and conservation area benefiting the region.
ETTP is home to 25 businesses with more expected in the years ahead. It’s home to an element of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, and it also has a 3,000-acre conservation area for public use. | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/focusing-on-soil-groundwater-at-former-k-25-complex/70257087007/ | 2023-06-03T05:51:32 | 0 | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/focusing-on-soil-groundwater-at-former-k-25-complex/70257087007/ |
No tax hike, but utility rates may increase under Oak Ridge budget
City employees to get at least 7% pay hike if budget OK'd
Oak Ridge's proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024 calls for no increase in the property tax rate, but residents could see increases in their water and electricity bills by October.
For the city of Oak Ridge government's employees - pay raises of at least 7% are included in the proposed budget, which was presented to City Council Tuesday night at a special called meeting in the Municipal Building.
Last summer, City Council approved a compensation plan that included 5% across-the-board pay increases for all employees and a special 4% pay hike for police officers. It came about following several meetings at which citizens, staff and Council members complained about city employees' struggles in keeping up with the cost of living.
The proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024 includes a 7% across-the-board pay increase, funding for 2% step pay increases for employees based upon performance, and updates to the compensation plan. The city employs 412 full-time workers.
Interim City Manager Jack Suggs pointed out that employees had experienced difficulties over the last few years, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and this year's move to a new software system followed by a malware attack that is still being dealt with, all while continuing to provide needed services to residents and other customers.
And the number of those residents and customers is increasing.
Listing accomplishments over the past year, Suggs said city employees issued more than 5,000 individual permits and provided services such as utilities, police and fire protection to new residents and businesses. The past year, 105 single-family homes, 238 multi-family units, and an additional 41,400 square feet of commercial and industrial space have been added to the city, he said.
Utility rate hike increases
Suggs listed proposed rate hikes for utilities over the next two years to generate $1.5 million as required to support the State Revolving Loan Fund. They are:
- A water rate hike of 8.4% this October;
- An $8.4% increase in the sewer or wastewater rate in October 2024.
Electric rates are also expected to be adjusted by 2.3% this fall, he said.
Tax revenue
The city property tax rate of $2.31 per $100 of assessed property value will remain the same under the proposed budget.
Other highlights in the proposed budget:
- Sales tax revenues are expected to be flat compared with this year, but it may be dropping significantly in the next few years as construction on the Uranium Processing Facility winds down.
- The National Nuclear Security Administration's payment of $1.5 million a year to the city for fire protection at the former K-25 site is ending. Fire Station No. 4 on the west end needs to continue operating because of increased housing growth on the west end, Suggs said, and financial steps will be taken by city staff over the next few years to reduce that impact on the yearly budgets.
- Gov. Bill Lee's proposed state funding for hiring more school resource officers could result in problems for the city police department in hiring and keeping qualified officers.
- The old Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic building on Badger Road could become the new home for the Oak Ridge Convention & Visitors Bureau also known as Explore Oak Ridge, and city Recreation and Parks Department staff.
- Eight and one-half positions will be added to city staff, including a volunteer and adoptions coordinator for the Oak Ridge Animal Shelter. Suggs pointed out that the shelter adopted out 98.24% of its animals and that 90% is the minimum for a shelter to be considered a "no kill" one.
Future meetings
City Clerk Beth Hickman said the first reading and public hearing on the proposed budget will be 7 p.m. Monday, followed by the second reading and possible adoption of the budget at 7 p.m. June 12. Both meetings will be held in the Municipal Building courtroom. | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/no-tax-hike-but-utility-rates-may-increase-under-oak-ridge-budget/70272849007/ | 2023-06-03T05:51:38 | 0 | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/01/no-tax-hike-but-utility-rates-may-increase-under-oak-ridge-budget/70272849007/ |
Yager backs governor's nuclear energy initiative
State Sen. Ken Yager, R-Kingston, recently expressed his support for Gov. Bill Lee's creation of the Tennessee Nuclear Energy Advisory Council.
On May 16, Lee signed an executive order to create the council to assist in the expansion of nuclear energy innovation in Tennessee.
“There is no better place than Tennessee to advance nuclear energy,” Yager said in a statement. “We are home to Oak Ridge National Lab, the TVA and numerous nuclear power plants providing energy throughout the South. Tennessee has the experts, workforce, visionaries and resources to play an instrumental role in moving our nation towards energy independence. The East Tennessee and Upper Cumberland economic impact potential is unlimited, too. I appreciate Governor Lee for his leadership in putting together this advisory council.”
Lee said the new 15-member council would include members of his administration, the Tennessee General Assembly, the state's congressional delegation and key nuclear industry stakeholders.
The members have not been named. Lee said he will "make those appointments in the next couple of months."
The advisory council will:
- Identify legislative, policy and budgetary changes that could eliminate regulatory, workforce or education barriers in order to expand nuclear energy facilities in Tennessee.
- Fund opportunities for state government, local governments and the private sector.
- Examine storage and waste practices.
- Pursue partnerships with federal agencies. | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/tennessee-senator-yager-backs-nuclear-energy-initiative/70254174007/ | 2023-06-03T05:51:45 | 1 | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/tennessee-senator-yager-backs-nuclear-energy-initiative/70254174007/ |
UCOR expands summer intern program
United Cleanup Oak Ridge (UCOR) welcomed its largest class of summer interns recently. With 40 students this year, the 2023 class is almost 40% larger than in 2022.
The intern program is a major part of the company’s workforce development effort, according to a news release. As part of its 10-year cleanup contract with the U.S. Department of Energy, UCOR must maintain a strong pipeline of environmental cleanup workers in Oak Ridge, especially in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields.
“We are excited to welcome back 10 members of the class who also interned with us last year,” said intern program coordinator Shannon Potter. “We have great opportunities for students across a broad range of fields, including supply chain, finance, engineering, information technology, industrial safety, and document management.”
Potter noted that more than half of this year’s interns are working in UCOR’s engineering department, which includes students working toward degrees in biomedical, chemical, civil, environmental, mechanical, and nuclear engineering.
The class includes students from 14 schools across eight states. Of this year’s class, 36 applied through UCOR’s open solicitation for interns. The remaining four are part of DOE’s Mentorship for Environmental Scholars (MES) Program, which actively recruits undergraduates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and other minority-serving institutions. The MES program provides extensive training to help students start careers in various research and management positions with DOE.
Colleges participating in this year’s program:
- Alabama A&M University
- Colorado State
- Florida International University
- Purdue University, Indiana
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Murray State University, Kentucky
- University of the Cumberlands, Kentucky
- North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, North Carolina
- Benedict College, South Carolina
- East Tennessee State University
- Middle Tennessee State University
- Tennessee Technological University
- University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
- University of Tennessee-Knoxville
UCOR begins recruiting interns each fall. Intern jobs are posted on UCOR’s employment page. | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/ucor-expands-summer-intern-program-at-oak-ridge/70269698007/ | 2023-06-03T05:51:51 | 0 | https://www.oakridger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/ucor-expands-summer-intern-program-at-oak-ridge/70269698007/ |
Saving for a project, Lakeland Electric holds firm on its fuel rate despite lower costs
LAKELAND — Lakeland Electric customers will not see a change in their fuel rates despite decreasing costs for fuel, as the utility looks to save money toward an expense coming down the road. Lakeland Electric will ask city commissioners on Monday to approve keeping a fuel rate of $55 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours of power used effective July 1. The measure was approved by the utility committee Friday morning, which included three commissioners.
The $55 fuel rate is slightly lower than the rate last summer, when it was $60 per 1,000 kilowatt-hour, but remains above prices in first half of 2022.
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Tory Bombard, LE's fuel manager, said the rate is less than the utility's actual expense to purchase fuel in May, which averaged closer to $59.20 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours. Bombard said based on market predictions, she does expect the cost of fuel to gradually decline over the summer months. This will lead the utility to "over recover its costs, adding $9 million to Lakeland Electric's fuel reserves by November."
These funds will be used to pay roughly $3.5 million to the Florida Department of Transportation for construction work. Bombard said one of the utility's gas lines is located in the state's right-of-way needed for FDOT's plans to widen State Road 33 near the I-4 interchange. The gas line will be reconnected to the utility's Lake Parker line, running along the Orlando Utilities Commission's transmission lines.
"We won't ever have to worry about moving it again," Bombard said.
Bombard told commissioners by not changing the utility's fuel rate, it would avoid a potential rate increase in the future when FDOT's project begins.
Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545. Follow on Twitter @SaraWalshFl. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/lakeland-electric-wants-to-keep-same-fuel-charge-despite-falling-costs/70276730007/ | 2023-06-03T05:59:19 | 1 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/lakeland-electric-wants-to-keep-same-fuel-charge-despite-falling-costs/70276730007/ |
ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL) — After it appeared that funding for non-profits would be left out of next year’s budget, the Carter County Budget Committee has decided to put the funding back in.
During a Budget Committee meeting Thursday night, county commissioners unanimously decided to restore the funding.
However, county leaders are considering phasing out funding for those non-profits.
Elizabethton Senior Center Executive Director Brittany Shell says phasing out funds would at least give the senior center time to prepare.
“It is my understanding that funding will gradually be phased out, but at least I have that year to prepare and I need that,” said Shell. “So cold turkey was what all the panic was about.”
However, Senior Center Board Member Maryann Owen said phasing out funds would still be “devastating.”
“We had an emergency board meeting yesterday,” said Owen. “And if there’s no funds and we can’t supply that deficit that they’re going to phase out, then the senior center can’t be open. They can’t be open five days a week. It’s not going to have all the events that Brittany and Leann has moved into the center. “
Shell says it’s essential to provide services to seniors in the community.
“Seniors are taxpaying citizens that have worked and built this community, and it is our job as a community to support them and provide a sanctuary for them.” said Shell. “It is not a charity. It is a service that seniors are worthy and deserving of.”
Owen, who is also the adult services and outreach coordinator at the Elizabethton-Carter County Public Library, also believes senior centers are essential.
“I personally don’t understand how the senior center cannot be essential. I mean, we are known as a retirement place. Everyone’s coming here to retire,” said Owen.
Shell says they are already preparing for the potential future phase-out.
“So, we are going to prepare and implement plans within that year to start getting ready to lose that funding,” said Shell. “We are not a 501(C)(3). We are an agency of the city. So, it is more difficult for us to apply for grants, even though I apply for every grant I can. It’s harder for me to get certain grants because I’m not a 501(C)(3).”
Shell says many of the senior center members have reached out to the Carter County Commission. She encourages people to still reach out.
“They’ve been emailing,” said Shell. “They’ve been phone calling. They’ve been really reaching out to their commissioners and using their voices. And I think people in the community especially people my age, need to not be apathetic to what is happening, because not only for our current seniors that need these services, we want this to be around for when we’re a senior and we need those services.”
Shell is grateful for the commissioners deciding to leave the funding in this upcoming budget.
“I thank them so much and I do what I do out of wanting to protect our seniors,” said Shell. “And I am their voice and I want to give them a sanctuary to come to and I will fight for them.”
Owen believes non-profits having support is important to the community.
“When communities have support, the people thrive,” said Owen. “And nonprofits and outside agencies are the ones that keep people from falling into the cracks.”
Carter County Commissioner Bob Acuff said where the funding will come from and how much will be set aside for non-profits will not be decided until after the budget is finished.
The committee will meet again on Thursday, June 8. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/carter-county-non-profit-funding-back-in-budget-plans/ | 2023-06-03T06:02:46 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/carter-county-non-profit-funding-back-in-budget-plans/ |
PHOENIX — Forty-seven years ago, the parking lot of the Clarendon Hotel shook with the force of a bomb.
Don Bolles would spend the next 11 days in the hospital before succumbing to his injuries – dynamite placed under his driver seat had exploded.
The reporter was killed for doing his job.
"Someone screams, 'there is a car that just blew up at the Clarendon hotel and there is a reporter's tag on the window,'" Jana Bommersbach said.
Bommersbach was a reporter at the Arizona Republic back in 1976. She remembers making a long-distance call when the news came down about a bombing.
"The whole room got very cold and froze," Bommersbach said. "Somebody had decided to kill a reporter in broad daylight."
Bolles went to the Clarendon Hotel to meet a man who said he had information about a potential story. That man was John Adamson.
When he arrived, Adamson told investigators he put dynamite under the driver seat of Bolles' car. Adamson then drove to a nearby bar to call Bolles that the meeting was off.
Bolles got in his white Dotson, backed up, and the bomb was triggered.
Don Bolles, investigative reporter
Bolles started with the Arizona Republic in the early 1960s. He quickly developed a reputation for holding the powerful accountable and exposing corruption. No one was off limits, not even the mob.
"Bolles was writing about a lot of corruption and organized crime going on at the time," Rich Robertson said.
At the time, Robertson worked part-time for the Arizona Republic up in Payson. He worked with Bolles a month earlier, helping the veteran journalist cover the George Wallace campaign. Robertson would later lead the investigative team at the Republic.
"He was always on the front page coming up with some sort of wrongdoing," Robertson said.
"He was a real reporter who would have given up anything to get a story," said former Arizona Republic employee Bill Shover.
Bommersbach put it even more bluntly.
"This guy was a tenacious badass," she said.
The aftermath
After the bombing, Bolles spent 11 days in the hospital. Doctors amputated three of his limbs to try and stave off infection.
Bill Shover remembers arriving at the hospital and seeing Bolles for the first time.
“The nuns took me in and she said, 'Don is over there' and I said 'where?' There was so much blood on him I couldn’t tell it was a human being,” he said.
Shover would stay at the hospital to watch over Bolles.
"[Police] sat outside with shotguns thinking that the people who didn’t do the job would try to kill him at the hospital," Shover said.
Bolles would reportedly help officers while in the hospital bed, pointing to answer questions before he passed away.
"The funeral I once wrote married grief and shock," Bommersbach said. "The mood was vengeance, we are going to have vengeance on this crime."
Police first arrested Adamson on first-degree murder. His initial testimony would lead to the convictions of Max Dunlap and James Robison.
However, both Dunlap and Robison would have their convictions overturned. They would get new trials a few years later.
Robison was acquitted in 1993. Dunlap was convicted again and died in prison.
Remembering Don Bolles
Nearly five decades after the bombing, friends and coworkers gathered in the parking lot where the bomb went off.
They shared stories and memories of the revered reporter before holding a moment of silence.
"I think we have to remember him as a consummate journalist," Robertson said.
"We should remember Don Bolles as a journalist who gave his life trying to expose the truth," Bommersbach said.
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. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/47-years-after-bombing-don-bolles/75-ac66c126-38cf-46c2-a193-fbd318fcfdde | 2023-06-03T06:10:41 | 0 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/47-years-after-bombing-don-bolles/75-ac66c126-38cf-46c2-a193-fbd318fcfdde |
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — If Arizonans are looking for reasons to be optimistic about the drought, a leading expert in civil and environmental engineering is providing a fountain of hope.
“Doom and gloom predictions are completely wrong,” said Benjamin Ruddell, director of both the National Water-Economy Project and the FEWSion computer modeling program at Northern Arizona University and Arizona State University.
Ruddell’s cutting-edge research on global supply chains and threats posed by climate change has been used by government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security.
He predicts as the U.S. Southwest gets hotter and drier, Arizona will shift away from its reliance on agriculture and actually prosper as an urban, manufacturing hub of technology.
And yes, he said, there will be enough water to make it happen.
“We are smart enough,” he said. “Within five or 10 years we’re going to have this thing solved, even with the drying climate.”
'We are smart enough to adapt'
Indeed, scientists predict heat waves and water scarcity present daunting challenges for cities in the desert Southwest. Some researchers even warn major counties in Arizona, including Maricopa, are at risk of being uninhabitable within 30 years.
Ruddell said he believes new technology, regional water agreements, lifestyle changes, and perhaps most importantly, a reduction in agriculture production for products like alfalfa will allow Arizona to adapt.
As a professor at NAU’s School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems, Ruddell’s research includes models predicting the impact of the western water crisis.
Here are four ways Ruddell predicts Arizona will evolve amid the aridification of the desert southwest.
1. Arizona will grow less food
The southwest produces incredible yields of agriculture and is a global exporter of food to regions including eastern Asia, Canada and New York City. Ruddell predicts those exports will be reduced. According to FEWsion computer modeling, Arizona is ranked second only to New Mexico of states where food supply is exposed to water stress.
“One way or another we are going to end up growing less food and especially less food for animals like cattle feed,” Ruddell said.
Farmers who don’t have first-priority water rights will continue to lose allotments and various regions of the world will feel the impact.
“When you get farmers losing water, which is happening today, the people who start seeing a rise in food prices are not primarily in the southwest. They are primarily in other places,” Ruddell said.
As the U.S. adapts to changing climate patterns, farming of some crops will migrate northward into the U.S. and Canada, Ruddell said. One consequence of the shift in agriculture is that food will need to travel longer distances.
He said new research shows the urgent need to reduce food waste.
“We waste roughly half of the food we produce. If we could reduce food waste, we could significantly reduce food production and all of the environmental impacts and stresses related to it,” Ruddell said.
2. Meat and dairy are poised to become more expensive
Barring new short-term solutions, expect meat and dairy to become more expensive in the Southwest and especially in Los Angeles, Ruddell said. The primary reason is explained in a 2020 report published by Ruddell and colleagues in Nature Sustainability https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-020-0483-z that mapped the dependency of the world on goods derived from Colorado River water. It concluded irrigation of cattle-feed crops like alfalfa to be the greatest consumer of river water in the western U.S.
“The sweet spot on that supply chain is that a ton of water gets used to grow alfalfa,” Ruddell said.
Ruddell and co-authors proposed temporary, rotational fallowing of alfalfa crops to reduce water shortage risks. Cattle feed such as alfalfa is considered one of the lowest “value uses” of water so it naturally will be one of the first resources to get cuts, Ruddell said.
The impact will be felt locally because unlike a commodity like grain which can be shipped around the world, dairy and beef industries depend heavily on local consumers.
“It’s actually big urban consumers of beef and dairy products in the western U.S. who are most affected out of anyone in the world by a western water shortage,” Ruddell said.
Innovative solutions such as lab-grown beef could fill the gap but they are still unproven on a mass scale. Researchers are also raising environmental concerns about those products.
3, Older, larger Arizona cities will support continued growth
Ruddell said Gov. Hobbs’ announcement on Thursday to halt construction of groundwater-reliant homes is the right call because it protects communities with existing water rights that rely on aquifers.
“This is effective government regulation in action to protect Arizona's residents and businesses, based on longstanding sustainability law and the best available science,” he said.
Ruddell believes older, larger Arizona cities with existing water rights and diverse water portfolios will continue to support growth. The re-shoring of manufacturing is attracting more people to the state, especially Maricopa County. Demand for homes will likely push up property values.
“The manufacturing industry in Arizona is exploding,” Ruddell said.
4. 'We’re going to have this problem solved'
Taking many factors into account, Ruddell believes Arizona’s water future is bright.
“The biggest issue is not what the climate gives us. The biggest issue is what we decide to do with it,” Ruddell said. “We are rapidly shifting from an agricultural economy. The state is going to be more and more of an urban place in the future, a high-value economy.”
Other researchers do not share Ruddell’s outlook about the future of life in Arizona, and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns a host of other factors – heat, air quality, and illness – will complicate all aspects of life in the desert. Federal health experts report the effects of climate change including extreme heat pose the greatest threats to racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities.
There is no doubt state and local governments face difficult decisions as they balance adaptation measures with climate justice policies.
But in terms of water, Ruddell believes ingenuity will win the day.
“I think Arizona has enough water, if we are smart and we manage it well, for hundreds of years of aggressive growth ahead of us,” Ruddell said.
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Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/water-wars/drought-despair-leading-expert-on-water-engineering-is-optimistic-about-arizonas-future/75-f6b7fe05-d5e5-439b-9e5c-e9f712d40484 | 2023-06-03T06:10:47 | 0 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/water-wars/drought-despair-leading-expert-on-water-engineering-is-optimistic-about-arizonas-future/75-f6b7fe05-d5e5-439b-9e5c-e9f712d40484 |
Assistant principals appointed
Bismarck Public Schools has assigned Dave Fey and Julie Ward as assistant principals at Miller and Murphy elementary schools.
Fey has 28 years of experience in education and most recently served as dean of students at Miller Elementary. He holds a master’s in school counseling from the University of Mary and a certificate in administration.
Ward is a graduate of Minot State University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education. She earned her provisional elementary principal credential and is completing her administrative credential from North Dakota State University. She taught for 27 years at Saxvik, Northridge, and Liberty and most recently served as a third grade teacher and assistant principal at Elk Ridge Elementary.
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They begin their new positions in the 2023-24 school year.
One joins Apex Engineering
Paige Lang has joined the Apex Water Group as a graduate engineer.
She has served as an intern at Apex since the spring of 2021 and recently completed her bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Mary.
Capital Credit Union promotion
Brad Shetler has been promoted to chief lending officer at Capital Credit Union in Bismarck.
Shetler graduated from the University of Mary in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and has been with Capital Credit Union for 14 years, most recently as Bismarck-Mandan market president.
Agency MABU adds interns to staff
Agency MABU has hired interns Emma Schroeder and Tate Houle from the University of Mary.
Schroeder recently graduated from the University of Mary with a degree in communication with a focus in media production and joins MABU’s team as a creative services intern.
Houle has completed her degree at the University of Mary in Communication and a focus in public relations. She joins MABU as a strategic operations intern.
New Farmers Union Insurance agent
Derrick Gefroh has joined Farmers Union Insurance in Bismarck.
Gefroh was born and raised in the Bismarck-Mandan area and graduated from Mandan High School. He also attended Bismarck State College studying health care/science.
He has seven years of experience in health, life, and Medicare insurance plans.
ND Highway Patrol promotion
Benjamin Hixson has been promoted to sergeant by the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
Hixson graduated from the Highway Patrol Academy in 2014 after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from North Dakota State University. He was stationed as a motor carrier enforcement trooper in Killdeer from June 2014 to January 2018 and then transferred to Fargo serving as a traffic enforcement trooper. Hixson is serving at headquarters in Bismarck. | https://bismarcktribune.com/business/local/businesspeople---june-3-2023/article_d8482c00-fb27-11ed-8b5f-97acd70f7f05.html | 2023-06-03T06:28:37 | 0 | https://bismarcktribune.com/business/local/businesspeople---june-3-2023/article_d8482c00-fb27-11ed-8b5f-97acd70f7f05.html |
First Presbyterian Church will host events to celebrate its 150th anniversary.
On June 11, Ann Vadnie of the Bismarck Historical Society will talk about the church's history; an event with games, music, food and historical displays is set for June 17 and an anniversary service will be held June 18.
A high tea is scheduled for Sept. 9.
The church is at 214 E Thayer Ave. in Bismarck. | https://bismarcktribune.com/life-entertainment/local/faith-and-values/first-presbyterian-church-in-bismarck-schedules-events-for-150th-anniversary/article_13ff6298-00ac-11ee-8fa7-53634df89dae.html | 2023-06-03T06:28:44 | 1 | https://bismarcktribune.com/life-entertainment/local/faith-and-values/first-presbyterian-church-in-bismarck-schedules-events-for-150th-anniversary/article_13ff6298-00ac-11ee-8fa7-53634df89dae.html |
Tupelo was missing something.
For many in the All-America City 25 years ago, Tupelo seemed to be missing a key element: a celebration of its most beloved citizen and the King of Rock and Roll. Sure, there was the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, but the grounds were set up more for quiet reflection on the life of the legendary musician.
But in 1999, on the heels of the demise of the popular Oleput festival, downtown and tourism officials finally put in place the long-held idea of having an Elvis Festival in the All-America City.
On Jan. 8, 1999, on what would have been Elvis’ 64th birthday, the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Partnership announced that Tupelo’s inaugural Elvis Presley Festival would be held on Aug. 6-8 of that year.
Tupelo officials hoped festival would draw as much interest as Oleput, which from 1991-1998 filled the streets of Tupelo with upward of 30,000-40,000 people and was named one of the best festivals in the Southeast.
So how could Tupelo capture some of that excitement for an Elvis Festival?
The festival had an organizing committee comprising Debbie Brangenberg, Stephanie Coomer, Linda Johnson, Bobby King and the late Pat Rasberry.
Brangenberg was the manager of the Partnership. Johnson was the executive director of the Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau, where Rasberry also worked. Coomer worked with King at Bobby King and Associates, the marketing firm that advised the CVB.
Brangenberg, who would later become the executive director of the renamed Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association, said Johnson had had been questioning the city’s lack of an Elvis festival for years. It didn’t take long for the idea to be embraced fully by the committee.
Johnson saw the festival as a way not only to celebrate Elvis but also as an economic driver. Visitors would stay in hotels, eat at restaurants and shop in stores while they were in Tupelo for the festival.
“We were supported by the hotel and motel tax, and this was a way to help the CVB as well as the city,” Johnson said.
King said a trip by Coomer, Brangenberg, Johnson and Dick Guyton — then the director of the Elvis Birthplace and Museum — to the Collingwood Elvis Festival in Ontario, Canada, was eye-opening. The festival drew hundreds of tribute artists, and the city threw its full financial support behind it.
“They came back and basically said it’s a shame we’re being outdone by the Canadians,” said King, now-retired. “So we decided we needed it. My reasoning was that I was working with the CVB, and we said this was something we had to get done. It was a natural thing.”
But before they could hold a festival, the group needed the legal blessing of Elvis Presley Enterprises at Graceland.
King recalls the committee was concerned Graceland would say no, and while the CVB had a good relationship with EPE for advertising purposes, there was no guarantee the organization would give its blessing for the festival.
“Linda, Stephanie and I went to Graceland to ask permission to use Elvis’ likeness for a festival,” Brangenberg said. “They said they wondered why we hadn’t done it before.”
With EPE’s blessing in hand, planning for the first Tupelo Elvis Festival got underway.
The committee started by securing sponsorships for the festival. Preliminary plans included music stages with gospel and rock ‘n’ roll performers, a songwriting contest, a parade of vintage cars, street dances, crafts, a 5K run, food vendors, storytelling venues, and tours of Tupelo sites relating to Elvis’ early years in the city.
Not on the table initially: Elvis Tribute Artists. Graceland had long derided the term “Elvis impersonators,” and it had doubts about Elvis tribute artists. 4
They would eventually come around, however.
“We learned the hard way not to call them Elvis impersonators,” King said. “Graceland said, ‘We don’t impersonate; we recreate.’”
The first Tupelo Elvis Festival was held in August 1999, which was in the heat of summer, and festival attendees didn’t exactly enjoy standing on asphalt and concrete. One performer, wearing a polyester suit in the heat, needed oxygen from the Tupelo Fire Department. That was a clear sign August was not going to work, Johnson said. Organizers decide to move Elvis Fest to June, essentially taking over the dates of the defunct Oleput festival.
“The first one one was in August, and we were hoping to link it to Elvis Week at Graceland, but it was so hot,” Coomer said. “So we moved it to June, and over the years the festival has evolved and taken many forms.”
King said the first Elvis Festival lacked … well … Elvis. Organizers were struggling to figure out how to best incorporate him into the activities, something they’ve perfected over the years.
“Where we started and where we got to was a complete 180-degree turn,” King said. “We said we needed to grow it and we did.”
Tribute artists welcome
Perhaps the biggest change to the festival occurred in 2006 with the reenactment of Elvis’ 1956 concert at the Tupelo Fairgrounds. Held at Fairpark, the concert was as the impetus for ETAs’ larger role in the annual event. That same year, Graceland fully embraced the growing tribute artist culture and began to host the Ultimate Tribute Artist competition in Memphis. Tupelo was asked to become a preliminary round for UTA, with the first competition in 2007.
“I remember we asked Graceland if we could have a tribute artist to help recreate Elvis’ homecoming concert at Fairpark, but they said no,” Coomer said. "They said we had to have three."
EPE didn’t want one tribute artist to claim that he was the top choice at the Tupelo Elvis Fest over other tribute artists, Coomer said.
Over the years, the festival has attracted a mix of musicians, and had headliners — Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Charlie Daniels, B.B. King, Mary Wilson, Montgomery Gentry, Marty Stuart, Paul Thorn and others. The festival caught lightning in a bottle in 2012 when Little Big Town and Thorn were the lead acts. The former had just released “Pontoon,” which would soar in popularity, selling over 2 million copies and pushing the group to new heights.
“Our budget was to always try to get the up-and-coming acts,” Brangenberg said. “This is a country market, and some groups we brought many didn’t know about ... but we tried to bring a mix of musicians based on our budget. But it got to a point that we could no longer afford some of the acts that people wanted to see.”
Johnson said there were many memorable performers, and one tribute artist, Travis LeDoyt, has been a fan favorite. One year at the arena, he rode a motorcycle down the ramp and had some Las Vegas-style dancers accompany him.
“Yeah, that wasn’t going to work in Tupelo,” Johnson said with a laugh. “But, through a lot of trial and error, we got to where we needed to be with the festival.
Elvis Fest the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association’s primary fundraiser, and years in which weather has affected the festival have hurt the organization’s bottom line.
After the festival went virtual in 2020 because of the pandemic, the emphasis was to promote harder the Elvis-related elements of the festival, from the tribute artists competition to musical acts playing inside the Cadence Bank Arena. Those events had long been money-makers for the festival, whereas the outdoor music acts had been hit-and-miss, especially with the weather playing a huge role.
“First and foremost, it is a fundraiser for DTMSA, and they spend a lot of time and effort putting it together,” said Coomer, who is now deputy director of the CVB. “We’ve gotten in a good place now where they’re now making money, but we continue to search to see if the outdoor element work with what we’re trying to do, for does it open us up to more exposure where a profit can’t be made.
“The part that was growing was the Elvis part. We went from competition in the conference center to half-full at the Lyric, then filling up the Lyric and how it’s at the arena and it keeps growing. “
THE NEXT 25 YEARS
King said having the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association essentially take ownership of the festival to grow it and having Fairpark included in the festival has been key to its success.
Fairpark was officially dedicated in 2005 after six years of planning. A $23 million bond issue helped renovate what had been a derelict part of downtown. A new city hall was built, and the plan was to transform the area into a residential and commercial area that would anchor the front porch of the city.
“It was just huge to have that happen, and it benefited the festival in many ways,” King said. “It was shiny and new and people wanted to gather there. And if it wasn’t for the volunteers who gave their time to the festival, they’re the ones who made it happen each year.”
As for the next 25 years of the festival, there is plenty of opportunity to engage more fans. And Tupelo can support a festival long term, as the Gumtree Festival recently celebrated its 51st year. Coomer things Elvis Fest can have the same support.
“I don’t think we’ll stand still and say this is the way we’re always going to do it,” Coomer said, adding that the group is always tweaking the event to see what does and doesn’t work. “Twenty-five years from now, I’d like to see that we’re still paying tribute to Elvis and doing it the best way possible. Our brand is strong because we are the birthplace of Elvis and Tupelo should be very proud of that.”
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Error! There was an error processing your request. | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/downtown-tourism-officials-wondered-why-it-took-so-long-to-have-an-elvis-festival/article_5270150e-fb02-11ed-aa3d-a78f6cdcb271.html | 2023-06-03T07:25:22 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/downtown-tourism-officials-wondered-why-it-took-so-long-to-have-an-elvis-festival/article_5270150e-fb02-11ed-aa3d-a78f6cdcb271.html |
Ben Schmitt, 39, died Thursday, June 1, 2023. Arrangements: Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake.
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Ben Schmitt, 39, died Thursday, June 1, 2023. Arrangements: Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake.
Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. | https://globegazette.com/news/local/obituaries/death-notices/globe-death-notices/article_e04f7d87-fc59-5e5d-9583-74f442523d0a.html | 2023-06-03T07:26:23 | 1 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/obituaries/death-notices/globe-death-notices/article_e04f7d87-fc59-5e5d-9583-74f442523d0a.html |
Karen Marie Levis
April 21, 1945-May 31, 2023
MASON CITY-Karen Marie Levis, 78, of Mason City, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at Epiphany Parish - St. Joseph Catholic Church, 302 5th St SE, Mason City with Rev. Jake Dunne officiating. Burial will be held in Elmwood St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Monday, June 5, 2023 at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St NE, Mason City, IA, with a Vigil Service beginning at 6:30 pm.
Should friends desire, memorials may be left in Karen's name to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
Karen was born April 21, 1945, the daughter of Ralph and Ella (Behm) Gratias. Karen grew up in Mason City, graduating from Mason City High School in 1963. Karen then attended LaJames College of Cosmetology in Mason City, and in 1964, started a near 60-year career as a hair stylist.
In 1976 Karen opened Karen's Hair Care, touching the lives of dozens of hair stylists and countless clients who visited the salon to get their hair done, and connect with dear friends. Karen worked tirelessly, with great passion, commitment and excellence to serve her customers, many of whom became her closest friends over her many decades of service. Whether a customer worked with Karen directly or with any other stylist, Karen greeted everyone with a warm smile and made all feel welcome. After selling Karen's Hair Care in 2017, she continued to work independently, refusing to retire as she truly loved all clients she served, and worked until her final week of life in May 2023.
Family was especially important to Karen. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren. Karen's hobbies include the people in her life (family, friends, and everyone she interacted with), and gardening. Karen was also well known as an exceptional cook among friends and family.
Those left to cherish memories of Karen are her two children: Lori (David) Yung of Apple Valley, Minnesota; and Chad (Patricia) Levis of Minneapolis, Minnesota; six grandchildren: Abigail Yung, Emily Yung, Andrew Yung, Elizabeth Yung, Julia Levis and Sophia Levis; sister Mary Lou Blake; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great friends.
Karen is preceded in death by her husband of 31 years, James Levis; her parents Ralph Gratias Sr. and Ella Gratias; brothers Gerald Gratias and Ralph Gratias, Jr.; and special friend and her partner of nine years, Ted Bair.
Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel 126 3rd St NE Mason City 641-423-2372 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/obituaries/karen-marie-levis/article_ee1e9251-293e-5769-85e1-261f5e3c4d57.html | 2023-06-03T07:26:30 | 0 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/obituaries/karen-marie-levis/article_ee1e9251-293e-5769-85e1-261f5e3c4d57.html |
Wayne D. Shearer
August 31, 1943-May 31, 2023
Wayne D. Shearer passed away May 31, 2023, in Omaha, Nebraska. The family is planning a service in Muscatine, Iowa, at a later date.
Wayne D. Shearer
August 31, 1943-May 31, 2023
Wayne D. Shearer passed away May 31, 2023, in Omaha, Nebraska. The family is planning a service in Muscatine, Iowa, at a later date.
Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. | https://globegazette.com/news/local/obituaries/wayne-d-shearer/article_0a7b8d57-eb51-5b4b-8aea-b72c5577e7d6.html | 2023-06-03T07:26:36 | 1 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/obituaries/wayne-d-shearer/article_0a7b8d57-eb51-5b4b-8aea-b72c5577e7d6.html |
Teamwork is the secret ingredient to success for MSU Texas esports championship
MSU Texas esports gamers won a championship in Spring 2023.
The JV Super Smash Bros. team won a league championship against other college teams.
The JV Smash team lost only once, compiling a 7-1 record in league play. It’s the first championship team for the young program.
Captain Jarrette Greene was joined by Nathan Ampil, Ajani Freeman and Brayden Lawson on the team.
“I was the captain, but it felt like we were all leaders and took responsibility for the team,” Greene said. “It was a great experience to win the championship with my friends.”
Ampil said it was an enjoyable experience to join MSU Texas Esports.
“It’s my hobby but also something where I can enjoy competing with my friends,” he said. “It was fun to compete against other schools.”
The varsity team receives scholarships, while the junior varsity team is more recreational. They both share the MSU Texas Esports lounge in Legacy Hall.
Freeman and his teammates also enjoyed practice battles with the varsity team with a chance to sharpen skills and good-natured trash talk.
Playing league matches against different opponents each week is different than going to weekend tournaments, group members said. And it was a challenge, strategically, to adapt to an unfamiliar foe.
“It’s very difficult to maintain consistency because you don’t know what your opponents are going to do,” Lawson said. “You have to adapt quickly, and you know with one mistake, you can lose. I would say we all improved this season. It was a great experience!”
The team found many benefits from competing together, including new friendships that came with finding other college students with the same interests. It gave them an outlet for competition and a break from the routine.
They hope to see the program grow in the coming years. And they’d enjoy bringing home more victories, too.
“I think it was so awesome to see these students come together as a roster,” said Zachary Zoet, the esports and gaming coordinator at MSU Texas.
“They worked very hard to figure out ways to leverage individual player strengths. And they also learned to develop a smart roster that covered each other’s weaknesses. That was our secret sauce for taking home this championship for MSU!” Zoet said.
More:Gamers level up with new Esports lounge at Midwestern State University | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/msu-exports-team-takes-home-a-championship/70282580007/ | 2023-06-03T07:30:26 | 0 | https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/msu-exports-team-takes-home-a-championship/70282580007/ |
TEXAS, USA — Houston attorney Tony Buzbee posted to Instagram Friday that he had been retained to represent Ken Paxton in his impeachment trial, but deleted the post just a few hours later.
Buzbee told his Instagram followers to "not believe all the foolishness you have read about this case in the media," and he's very confident that Paxton will be exonerated.
We’ve reached out to him for clarification but have not heard back, yet.
This comes after another two high-profile Houston attorneys -- Dick DeGuerin and Rusty Hardin -- said they will present the Texas House's case in the impeachment trial.
The hiring of DeGuerin and Hardin underlines how aggressively a Republican-led investigation is moving to oust the state's top lawyer in the face of backlash from the GOP's hard right.
In an interview, DeGuerin and Hardin said the evidence against Paxton is as “strong as horseradish.”
“I think the facts are much worse than either one of us guessed, that we did not know until last week and started reading,” said Hardin on a new episode of the Y’all-itics podcast released Friday evening.
What we know about Ken Paxton's impeachment trial?
On June 20, a special committee of senators will present the rules and procedures for the trial.
A date for the start of the trial has not been made but it must start no later than August 28.
During the impeachment trial, the 31 senators will serve as the jury. Twelve state representatives will serve as prosecutors.
The defendant, Paxton, is allowed to bring in outside attorneys or the Office of the Attorney General can represent him, who we have just learned will be Tony Buzbee.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick will serve as the judge in this trial, but he also gets to set the rules.
One important rule will be how much time each side gets to present their case.
There are 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats in the Senate that will determine the fate of Paxton. That includes Paxton's wife.
Experts say it will be interesting to see whether she participates in the trial. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/tony-buzbee-representing-ken-paxton/285-b776a2c1-9de8-4363-b5b5-178e3da02591 | 2023-06-03T07:53:28 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/tony-buzbee-representing-ken-paxton/285-b776a2c1-9de8-4363-b5b5-178e3da02591 |
ALLIANCE
Beloit Old Time Community Day set for June 17
The Repository
- "Beloit Old Time Community Day" is June 17 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., mostly in Beloit Village Park.
BELOIT − Beloit Fire Association will jump-start the Father's Day weekend with a special event.
Beloit Old Time Community Day will run 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. June 17, with most events at Beloit Village Park, 17895 Fifth St. A breakfast and bonfire will be held at Beloit Ruritan Park at 17662 Fairview Dr.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the village's Fire Department.
The schedule of events:
- Breakfast at Ruritan Park, 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- The parade kicks off at noon. It starts at West Branch Intermediate School and ends in the park.
- Old fashioned games, 1-4 p.m.
- Cornhole tournament, 4-6 p.m.
- Kick ball tournament, 4-6 p.m.
- Cold Shot concert at pavilion, 6-9 p.m.
Bonfire follows the concert at Ruritan Park. There also will be a cruise-in at Fifth and Main streets for a $5 donation/registration fee. In addition to activities, there will be food vendors. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/alliance/2023/06/03/beloit-fire-old-time-community-festival/70277151007/ | 2023-06-03T08:59:06 | 0 | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/alliance/2023/06/03/beloit-fire-old-time-community-festival/70277151007/ |
SATURDAY’S HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULE
BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD
9:30 a.m.
S.J. Groups I and IV championships Day 2 at Pennsauken
S.J. Groups II and III championships Day 2 at Delsea Reg.
BOYS LACROSSE
S.J. Group III semifinal
2 p.m.
(3) Moorestown at (2) Ocean City
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
S.J. Group II semifinal
3 p.m.
(3) Manchester Twp. at (2) Pinelands Reg. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/highschool/high-school-schedule-for-saturday-june-3-2023/article_894a41a8-0093-11ee-99c3-1745a7be8cd2.html | 2023-06-03T09:08:37 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/highschool/high-school-schedule-for-saturday-june-3-2023/article_894a41a8-0093-11ee-99c3-1745a7be8cd2.html |
Mainland Regional High School graduate Chase Petty in action with the Dayton Dragons in 2022. Petty, the No. 8 prospect in the Cincinnati Reds organization according to MLB.com, made his season debut this week.
Dayton Dragons, Provided
Buddy Kennedy, a 2017 Millville High School graduate, in action for the Reno Aces, the Arizona Diamondbacks' AAA team, in 2023.
David Calvert Photography/Reno Aces, Provided
Jay Groome pitches for the Padres during a spring training game against the Royals.
Abbie Parr, Associated Press
San Diego Padres starting pitcher Jay Groome throws against the Milwaukee Brewers during a March 23 spring training game in Phoenix.
Ross D. Franklin, Associated Press
This is a 2023 photo of Jay Groome of the San Diego Padres baseball team. This image reflects the San Diego Padres active roster as of Thursday, Feb. 24, 2023, when this image was taken in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)
Darryl Webb
Buddy Kennedy, a 2017 Millville High School graduate, before a game with the Reno Aces, the Arizona Diamondbacks' AAA team, in 2023.
David Calvert Photography/Reno Aces, Provided
Buddy Kennedy, a 2017 Millville High School graduate, in action for the Reno Aces, the Arizona Diamondbacks' AAA team, in 2023.
David Calvert Photography/Reno Aces, Provided
Buddy Kennedy, a 2017 Millville High School graduate, in action for the Reno Aces, the Arizona Diamondbacks' AAA team, in 2023.
David Calvert Photography/Reno Aces, Provided
Buddy Kennedy, third from left, a 2017 Millville High School graduate, in action for the Reno Aces, the Arizona Diamondbacks' AAA team, in 2023.
David Calvert Photography/Reno Aces, Provided
Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Buddy Kennedy dives to stop a deep infield single by the Dodgers’ Jason Heyward during a March 2 spring training game in Phoenix. In 15 games with the Triple-A Reno Aces this year, Kennedy was hitting .408 with three homers, 15 runs and nine RBIs. His OPS was 1.281.
Ross D. Franklin, Associated Press
This is a 2023 photo of Jay Groome of the San Diego Padres baseball team. This image reflects the San Diego Padres active roster as of Thursday, Feb. 24, 2023, when this image was taken in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)
Darryl Webb
This is a 2023 photo of Arizona Diamondbacks' Buddy Kennedy. This image reflects the Arizona Diamondbacks' active roster as of Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, when this image was taken in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)
A look at how local minor league players are performing (stats through Thursday):
Triple A
2B Buddy Kennedy (Millville), 24, is playing for the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks). Through 48 games, he was hitting .364 (64 for 176) with 14 doubles, five triples, four homers, 48 runs and 22 RBIs. He had walked 37 times and struck out 32 times, and his OPS was 1.057.
Kennedy made his major league debut June 17, 2022. In 30 games, he batted .217 with a homer and 12 RBIs. ... Through 445 minor league games, Kennedy was hitting .288 with 83 doubles, 23 triples, 44 homers and 223 RBIs. He was chosen in the fifth round of the 2017 draft.
LHP Jay Groome (Barnegat), 24, is pitching for the El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego Padres). Through 11 starts, he was 1-5 with an 8.87 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 47 2/3 innings.
Through 81 career minor league games (79 starts), he was 16-29 with a 4.87 ERA and 408 strikeouts in 355 innings. He was drafted with the 12th overall pick by the Boston Red Sox in 2016.
Double-A
RHP Sean Mooney (Ocean City), 25, was assigned to the Wichita Wind Surge (Minnesota Twins) and placed on the seven-day injured list to start the season (right shoulder fatigue). He was later moved to the 60-day IL.
Through 31 career games (24 starts), he is 2-5 with a 3.09 ERA and 153 strikeouts in 102 innings. He was selected in the 12th round of the 2019 draft.
High-A
RHP Chase Petty (Mainland Regional), 20, made his fourth start of the season Wednesday. He pitched four scoreless innings, walked one, hit a batter and struck out eight in a no-decision. In four starts this season, he is 0-0 with a 0.56 ERA, a 0.81 WHIP and 21 strikeouts in 16 innings.
The No. 8 prospect in the organization, according to MLB.com, Petty started the season on the injured list with an elbow issue. In 31 career games (25 starts), Petty is 1-6 with a 3.17 ERA and 123 strikeouts in 119¹/³ innings. Petty was selected 26th overall in the 2021 draft by the Minnesota Twins.
Single-A
LHP Noah Dean (Pinelands Regional), 22, pitching for the Salem Red Sox (Boston Red Sox), had one of his best outings of the season Tuesday. He allowed three hits and a hit batter and struck out seven in five shutout innings in a no-decision. Through eight starts in his first pro season, he was 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA and 34 strikeouts in 23 1/3 innings.
Dean was chosen in the fifth round of last year’s draft by Boston.
SS Josh Hood (St. Augustine Prep), 22, is playing for the Modesto Nuts (Seattle Mariners). Over his previous five games, he went 8 for 22 to raise his batting average to .271. Through 44 games, he was 41 for 159 with 13 doubles, two triples, three homers, 33 runs, 28 RBIs and 11 stolen bases.
In 52 career games, he was hitting .259 with 13 doubles, two triples, three homers, 30 RBIs and 13 stolen bases. Hood, from Vineland, was selected in the sixth round of last year’s draft.
RHP Joe Joe Rodriguez (Vineland), 23, pitching for the St. Lucie Mets (New York Mets), was 1-0 with an 8.03 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 12 1/3 innings (nine appearances).
In 12 career games, Rodriguez was 3-0 with a 5.85 ERA and 21 strikeouts in 20 innings. The Mets signed him out of the MLB Draft league last summer.
GALLERY: A look at local major and minor leaguers in 2023
I graduated from Rowan University in 2011 where I studied journalism. I've done everything from cover sports to news and have served as a copy editor and digital producer with The Press since July 2013.
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Mainland Regional High School graduate Chase Petty in action with the Dayton Dragons in 2022. Petty, the No. 8 prospect in the Cincinnati Reds organization according to MLB.com, made his season debut this week.
This is a 2023 photo of Jay Groome of the San Diego Padres baseball team. This image reflects the San Diego Padres active roster as of Thursday, Feb. 24, 2023, when this image was taken in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)
Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Buddy Kennedy dives to stop a deep infield single by the Dodgers’ Jason Heyward during a March 2 spring training game in Phoenix. In 15 games with the Triple-A Reno Aces this year, Kennedy was hitting .408 with three homers, 15 runs and nine RBIs. His OPS was 1.281.
This is a 2023 photo of Jay Groome of the San Diego Padres baseball team. This image reflects the San Diego Padres active roster as of Thursday, Feb. 24, 2023, when this image was taken in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)
This is a 2023 photo of Arizona Diamondbacks' Buddy Kennedy. This image reflects the Arizona Diamondbacks' active roster as of Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, when this image was taken in Scottsdale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York) | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/lhp-noah-dean-ss-josh-hood-have-strong-weeks-in-single-a-local-minor-league/article_56227134-0169-11ee-9571-ab11d405c28b.html | 2023-06-03T09:08:43 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/lhp-noah-dean-ss-josh-hood-have-strong-weeks-in-single-a-local-minor-league/article_56227134-0169-11ee-9571-ab11d405c28b.html |
Nominees for a recently appointed Hanover County School Board seat, and the county’s NAACP branch, say they were overlooked during a rushed selection process that did not take into account diverse backgrounds and views.
Three applicants to the School Board, independent of each other, described to the Richmond Times-Dispatch how the selection process for them was no more than a rushed weekend phone call, made without advance notice, lasted no more than 15 minutes and happened just days before the final decision was set to be announced.
Hanover is one of a handful of counties in Virginia that appoints its School Board members through its Board of Supervisors, and are not voted on. The supervisor for each district appoints a School Board member for the corresponding district.
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George Monroe Jr. is one of the candidates who threw his name in for a nomination to the School Board. He holds a number of similar qualifications that were praised by supervisors in their ultimate pick.
Monroe is a direct descendant of President James Monroe and the enslaved people that worked his plantation. He has been spotlighted by major publications like The New York Times, Washington Post and NPR for that familial history, and has partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to tell more complete stories about slavery.
Now a 16-year Hanover resident, Monroe has four children, two of whom are currently in Hanover schools. He is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who holds master’s degrees from the University of Richmond and Capella University. He also has 27 years of experience in the banking industry and is an executive for risk, compliance and operations.
Monroe, like other candidates, said he was not contacted by Beaverdam Supervisor J. Robert Monolo until Saturday the weekend before the decision was announced.
Like the other applicants, Monroe said no notice was given for the time of the interview and, as with the other applicants who were not selected, they were asked the same four questions — where they were from, where they went to school, if they had children in the school system and what the major issues facing the School Board is.
Monroe said he was left disheartened calling the process a “gut punch.”
“I think there was already a rush to judgment as it relates to who they ultimately selected,” he said. “It didn’t have to be me, but I felt like there are probably three or four other individuals that were equally as qualified. You can’t call a five-minute conversation on a Saturday when you were on time with your family, unscheduled, you can’t call that being properly vetted.”
Monroe said he was with his son at a football camp the morning of the call and had to step off the field to take it.
“I had accepted the offer of admission on March 4, but then Irvo Otieno was killed on March 6 so I didn’t say anything publicly because I didn’t want it to be a distraction from the very important discussion on his case,” said Baskervill.
Monolo was reached by phone but declined to comment on any questions related to the interview.
As a Black man and as a father of Black children, Monroe said he hoped to bring a different perspective to a board that has traditionally been filled with white members.
“I don't think that they really understand the entirety of the issues that are ultimately affecting our county,” Monroe said. “And if they did, they would think that they would actually work to create a better response towards it.”
Monroe said that as a Christian, he holds certain viewpoints that might be seen as more conservative, but that ultimately he would want to be considerate of listening to views that are different from his own.
He said the short phone call ultimately shows that there was not an appetite for a mindset of inclusion on the School Board.
No written policy
Monroe was one of two Black candidates to say they had the same type of interview.
Another Black applicant, DeShanda Artis, is a lifelong Hanover resident and mental health professional who previously worked in the schools as a social worker. She said she was at her daughter's basketball game when the call came in.
Artis said the process felt like it had no clear guidelines.
"I think that opens it up so that they can basically do whatever they want, and it may or may not be fair," Artis said.
A Hopewell man is in custody after police say he made bomb threats against the city's court building in March and April, on days when court records show he was scheduled for pre-sentencing hearings on other charges.
Another overlooked Black candidate, Garrett Gordon, who announced his candidacy at the public meeting, is a football coach at one of the high schools and a lifelong resident of the county with children in the schools and relationships with parents and local churches.
A county spokesperson said Hanover does not have a written policy for how to choose a School Board member. The power to appoint members comes from the state code and has essentially one requirement, that the members live in the district they will represent.
Monolo ultimately chose William “Greg” Coleman, an Air Force veteran and sales representative for Alson, a medical equipment manufacturing company. He was praised by Monolo for being a strong Christian with leadership experience who is invested in the schools’ success and for having children in the school system.
South Anna Supervisor Susan Dibble also praised Coleman when the appointment was made, saying his business background meant that he was experienced in budgeting and finance.
Upon his appointment at the May 24 meeting, Coleman told supervisors that he has a “servant’s heart” and that he takes a great deal of pride in his work for a health care system supporting doctors and nurses.
Candidates also said they were told through various means — communications with county staff, Facebook groups and other county supervisors — that in-person attendance at a April 26 board meeting was strongly encouraged, and possibly a requirement. That meeting allowed anyone from the public to nominate themselves, and speak to the board for five minutes on their candidacy.
Coleman was one of two nominees who did not attend the meeting in person. Instead, his wife and two friends spoke on his behalf and announced his nomination. They said he was on a plane at the time of the meeting.
'Hanover uses religion as their criteria/crutch for selection'
The Hanover NAACP said it was “concerned” that three people of color were overlooked.
“Once again, Hanover uses religion as their criteria/crutch for selection,” the Hanover NAACP wrote in a statement. “That doesn’t carry water because all three of these candidates are Christians.”
The statement also pointed out that Coleman was praised for his financial knowledge and that Monroe had 27 years of experience in banking.
“When a decedent of former President James Monroe’s family is given no more respect than this, we're receiving the same message as we did in the 1800s. Blacks go to the back. The process is flawed and needs attention.”
There is also no written list of duties or skills and requirements a board member must have and fulfill.
The Beaverdam seat was one of two that opened up for a new appointee starting July 1. Its longtime School Board member and current board chair John Axselle III announced his retirement at the end of April. The final stages of his 28-year tenure have been marked with a number of controversies involving transgender policies, the naming of schools and, currently, a debate around what books are in school libraries.
Another nominee, Brianne Jackson, who is white, said she received the same unannounced short phone call on Saturday morning. She said she had expected some sort of a prescheduled interview or phone call.
She told supervisors while submitting her nomination at the May board meeting that she knew when she was 3 years old, she would dedicate her life to teaching.
She was a history and Spanish teacher in the county for eight years and has recently earned her doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University, where she is now an associate director of professional development, mentoring teachers and administrators on best practices for virtual learning. Jackson is a born and raised Hanover native with adult children who also graduated from Hanover schools.
She cited a lack of diversity on the board that is currently comprised of six white men and one Black woman. The new Henry District appointee — announced the same day as the Beaverdam District — is a white woman.
“When you have representation, they’re often strong Christian conservatives, which is fine," she said, "but you also have to remember that everyone isn’t a strong Christian conservative.”
Jackson said she is someone who goes against the county’s traditional conservative culture.
“I have purple hair; I have piercings and tattoos," she said. "I do not have the typical Hanover look; I very much expected to be cast aside.” | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/hanover-school-board-diversity/article_171b88f4-015f-11ee-bd0d-bb15f027bf5e.html | 2023-06-03T10:25:40 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/hanover-school-board-diversity/article_171b88f4-015f-11ee-bd0d-bb15f027bf5e.html |
It had been a long road to get to the front steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. A road spotted with constant battles, immense hardship and faithful resilience.
Despite it all, as three Richmond college students climbed the stairs of the courthouse in the summer of 1963, they were moments away from one of the major victories in the Civil Rights Movement – the highest court in the land, for the first time, had weighed in on sit-in protests and sided with the demonstrators.
Three years prior, a growing sit-in movement ignited across the South beginning in Greensboro and taking hold in several cities, including Richmond, with hundreds pushing against discriminatory practices and segregated lunch counters and restaurants.
In the early morning of Feb. 22, 1963, 34 Virginia Union University students left the college and marched downtown. The plan: to stage a sit-in in some of the city’s most influential department stores.
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At Thalhimers department store’s luncheon counter, half of the group sat at the “whites-only” lunch counter while the other half attempted to sit in the store’s more upscale tea room. They were all denied service and asked to leave.
When they peacefully refused, they were all arrested. A month later, they were all convicted of trespassing and fined $20 each; ultimately, setting into motion a changing consciousness in the city.
“The Richmond 34, like their counterparts elsewhere, contributed to their own personal and political development, to changes in the behavior of downtown commercial establishments and to changes in constitutional law and public policy,” Times-Dispatch columnist Peter Wallenstein wrote in the Sunday, Feb. 21, 2010 edition of the paper.
For nearly a year following the arrests, picket lines dotted the streets of downtown as folks set up boycotts against stores with segregated facilities.
As the economic impact began to take its toll, many department stores decided to integrate their lunch counters. By the end of 1960, Thalhimers had fully integrated; effectively, ending the picket line.
While those involved in the Civil Rights Movement celebrated this momentous step toward desegregation, the 34 were launching another campaign through the court system.
All 34 members appealed their initial charges. From appeals, their case made its way to the Virginia Supreme Court in which the court ruled that it was the shop owners’ constitutional right to deny someone service.
However, they didn’t stop there. With one more court to weigh in, the group turned to the federal courts which at the time, had not considered any cases regarding sit-in demonstrations.
When the court decided to grant a remand, which effectively, vacated the state's charges and “held that it was unconstitutional for states to require segregation and to use their powers to enforce it,” according to an article in the June 11, 1963 edition of the Times-Dispatch.
Despite the Richmond 34’s contributions, they’re legacy was largely unremembered until 2010. In honor of the event’s 50th anniversary, the 34 were honored and a memorial plaque sits in front of where Thalhimers once stood.
Members of the Richmond 34 include Leroy Bray Jr., Gordon Coleman, Gloria Collins, Robert Dalton, Joseph Ellison, Marise Ellison, Wendell Foster Jr., Anderson Franklin, Woodrow Grant, Albert Van Graves Jr., George Wendall Harris Jr., Thelma Hickman, Joanna Hinton, Carolyn Ann Horne, Richard Jackson, Elizabeth Patricia Johnson, Ford Tucker Johnson Jr., Milton Johnson, Celia Jones, Clarence Jones, John McCall, Frank George Pinkston, Larry Pridgen, Leotis Pryor, Raymond Randolph Jr., Samuel Shaw, Charles Melvin Sherrod, Virginia Simms, Ronald Smith, Barbara Thornton, Randolph Tobias, Donald Vincent-Goode, Patricia Washington and Lois White.
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As the church bells chimed signaling the start of early afternoon, Oregon Hill came alive. | https://richmond.com/news/local/history/protest-virginia-union-university-students-lunch-counter-civil-rights/article_d820b542-ff20-11ed-95bb-db7dbd2294c6.html | 2023-06-03T10:25:47 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/history/protest-virginia-union-university-students-lunch-counter-civil-rights/article_d820b542-ff20-11ed-95bb-db7dbd2294c6.html |
Karl Schilling pulls down a toy kaleidoscope from the top shelf.
It's the Wonder Wheel, made by toy manufacturer Stevens Toys out of Herman, Missouri. He credits it for sparking his lifelong love of kaleidoscopes.
"I'm that much of a kaleido-nerd that I had to go and visit the factory when it was still open," he says.
Schilling's "kaleido-nerd" workshop serves as the headquarters of his business Kaleidoscopes To You in Manly, just off the intersection of U.S. Highway 65 and Iowa Highway 9. The complex of buildings includes an office, gallery, warehouse, shipping, metal shop, wood shop and glass-blowing studio. Parked outside is Schilling's car. Its plates read KALEIDO.
The Wonder Wheel was his first kaleidoscope.
"I cut it open. It was some tin and some plastic parts. I was disappointed. It seemed like it should be more complex, because to me, the images were amazing."
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Shilling and his family started making kaleidoscopes out of stained glass in 1982 in Spring Green, Wisconsin, at the House of the Rock tourist attraction. From there, the family added a second store in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, and a third in Galena, Illinois. During college, Schilling opened a fourth location in Red Wing, Minnesota, called The Glass Scope. Co-owner Jean Schilling, his wife, also comes from an entrepreneurial family. Her mother owned and operated The Plant Ranch, a florist and greenhouse with locations in Manly and Mason City.
From 1994 to 1997, the Schillings operated Crystal Kaleidoscope at the Mall of America in Minneapolis. They were operating five stores in three states before merging the businesses and going online in 1998 as KaleidoscopesToYou.com, headquartered in Manly. Between closing the floral business in 2007 during the Great Recession, expanding their warehouse in 2011, and with an ongoing expansion of the glass-blowing workshop, the company's journey has ebbed and flowed. Now the business primarily operates online via its website www.kaleidoscopestoyou.com.
"I've had to keep reinventing myself" Schilling says.
Years ago the Schillings had part time employees helping with manufacturing and shipping. "Now it's down to pretty much just us," he says.
Schilling has streamlined offerings, shrinking the catalog from more than 1,900 items to around 700, and has an average order size of $127 per box.
"The Great Recession was a great learning time for me. It was tough, but we still had orders coming in almost every day." In September 2019, The Schillings were named 'Entrepreneurs of the Month' by the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and the North Iowa Area Small Business Development Center.
If any random household shelf or trinket box in America contains a kaleidoscope, chances are it wasn't bought by the owner but was a gift. It's a seasonal business, with holiday sales making up about 25% to 30% of yearly sales.
Schilling's designs, along with around a dozen other artists' work, make up the online catalog, from plastic toy kaleidoscopes to hand-crafted fine art kaleidoscopes, teleidoscopes (which refract images and light in front of the lens, as opposed to within the instrument) and hand-made marbles, jewelry and glassware. They also fill corporate orders for kaleidoscopes sold at gift shops or as promotional giveaways, and custom orders with laser and wood engraving.
The website is easy to navigate and filled with detailed information about the pieces, some complete with videos that showcase an item's unique design and optical pattern.
The gallery is now by appointment-only, but yields some amazing views from Schilling's collection, from Victorian-era pieces that follow closely the design of the earliest kaleidoscopes, to wonderfully ornate stained-glass patterns smattered with a rainbow of colors, all crisscrossing through the light in beautiful symmetry.
Schilling says he's been blessed. He considers himself "just lucky to make a career of selling and making kaleidoscopes, bringing joy to people worldwide, but only in America can I make a living selling things people do not need, but want."
Alexander Schmidt is an Education/General Assignment Reporter for the Globe Gazette. You can reach him at alexander.schmidt@globegazette.com or at 641-421-0527. | https://globegazette.com/news/local/kaleidoscopes-to-you-and-to-whomever-you-gift-them-to/article_50932dc0-008e-11ee-be28-dfae9d6a2816.html | 2023-06-03T10:28:45 | 0 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/kaleidoscopes-to-you-and-to-whomever-you-gift-them-to/article_50932dc0-008e-11ee-be28-dfae9d6a2816.html |
TUPELO — Like everyone, Booneville native Brandon Hancock sees the rocket at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center every time he passes through Huntsville, Alabama.
But few get to see everything Hancock sees and documents through his work at the nearby Marshall Space Flight Center.
Hancock, 27, was hired as a videographer and photographer for NASA in May 2021. Growing up, he never had dreams of being an astronaut, but working for NASA turned out to be his dream job.
The self-taught photographer and videographer attended Northeast Mississippi Community College before earning a bachelor's degree in integrated marketing communications at the University of Mississippi in 2019.
For years, he had filmed wedding videos as a side hustle and had a personal interest in photography.
"I never considered that to be a full-time career for me," Hancock said. "So, the fact that I get to do that, and do it for a company like NASA, that's my ultimate goal."
The bulk of his work recently has been filming for the Artemis program — a series of missions working towards putting humans back on the moon.
When Artemis I launched at 1:47 a.m. from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Nov. 16, 2022, Hancock was there to assist with NASA's live broadcast and set up a camera to record for his team as well.
"It looked like daytime when it launched," Hancock said, despite the launch occurring in the middle of the night.
He was in awe seeing the most powerful rocket in the world launch, feeling and hearing the rumble of the engine.
"I still am a little bit speechless about it," Hancock said. "It's one of those things you have to see in order to understand ... That was the best thing I've ever been able to capture on camera."
The uncrewed test flight around the moon was a success. Next is sending Artemis II up with astronauts, then Artemis III, which will land astronauts, including the first woman and first person of color, on the moon.
He's also documented the welding and building of hardware at the Marshall Space Flight Center and offered support for any other projects in Huntsville and across the country.
The job involves plenty of travel.
Along with trips to the Kennedy Space Center, he's been to the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, Louisiana; the Northrop Grumman rocket test facility in Utah; and helped with a NASA exhibit at a Formula 1 race in Miami, Florida.
"We do a lot of outreach to try to pull different audiences into NASA," Hancock said. "They always need photo and video support to help tell the story and get the message out there."
In the days following Artemis I's November launch, Hancock traveled to New York, New York, to serve as a balloon handler for the Astronaut Snoopy balloon in the 2022 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
As NASA's Artemis program continues to progress, he's sure to have a hand in recording history as it unfolds. For Hancock, the sky is no longer the limit.
"There's just a lot of once-in-a-lifetime experiences I've already had just in the short time I've worked here," he said.
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ATLANTIC CITY — Sixty seconds can feel like forever when waiting at a red light.
But imagine that after waiting for the traffic light to turn green, you drive one, maybe two blocks only to hit another red light. Now repeat that cycle over and over again, and you’ll know what it’s like to drive on Absecon Island.
Add to that speeding cars trying to beat the random stop-and-go of traffic lights, bicyclists cruising down the middle of the road, potholes and pedestrians, and you’re now experiencing Atlantic Avenue.
Interestingly, there’s been a solution proposed for nearly 20 years — traffic light synchronization — for Atlantic and Pacific avenues, two of the city’s busiest roads, as a way to mitigate traffic and improve safety.
In the resort, the idea dates to 2004, said Jim Rutala, a grant writer who is helping Atlantic City secure funding for its current plan to reduce traffic lanes on Atlantic Avenue, along with light synchronization.
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“CRDA (the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority) tried to do it when they were going to pave Pacific Avenue,” Rutala said. “They put the conduit in, but they didn’t put the fiber in, so it was never completed.”
It hasn’t happened in all of the Downbeach communities either, although progress is being made.
Ventnor, which borders Atlantic City to the south, is working on synchronizing five intersections on Ventnor Avenue from Jackson to Oxford avenues.
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“They won’t be necessarily synchronized, but they will be tied to a GPS system with cameras and motion sensors that will time the light based on traffic, which is fantastic,” Mayor Lance Landgraf said about the autonomous traffic light synchronization system.
That project is similar to a $12 million Atlantic County synchronization system that will control traffic lights on county roads from Albany Avenue in Atlantic City to Wellington Avenue in Ventnor, down Dorset to Ventnor avenues, all the way to Longport, Landgraf said.
“The contractor is conducting the final testing and inspection of the traffic signals along Ventnor Avenue with only a few left to be completed,” said Linda Gilmore, a spokesperson for the county. “Once all equipment is checked, including cameras and sensors, the synchronization will be activated.”
Landgraf said he hopes to sync Ventnor’s traffic light plan with the county’s, but an agreement with the county hasn’t been made yet.
He said the city is trying to make the improvements effectively and efficiently.
“What we’re trying to do is just replace the guts, if you will, of these boxes because we don’t have the money to do what the county did at each intersection,” said Landgraf. “If you replace the traffic lights themselves, then you have to do that with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) ramps and all that, and we just don’t have the dollars to do that right now. So we’re looking at just doing the control systems to make those lights synchronized.”
Ventnor received a $2 million state Department of Transportation grant for the project, but the exact cost of the project has not been determined.
The project is in the design phase and expected to go out to bid later this summer, Landgraf said. He hopes to have the city completely synchronized by next spring.
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It’s a simpler matter in Longport, where two traffic lights on 29th Avenue are synchronized with each other, said borough Administrator Scott Porter. The remaining light at 33rd and Atlantic avenues isn’t synchronized, but that didn’t really matter considering the borough only has three traffic lights, he said.
Similar to Atlantic City’s plan, Margate timed and linked its traffic lights along Atlantic Avenue via GPS in 2017 when the city reduced the speed limit there from 30 mph to 20, said Commissioner Cathy Horn.
“Traffic signal synchronization has created a uniform traffic flow in both directions while providing safe pedestrian access to cross both Ventnor and Atlantic avenues,” said Horn. “Both main routes in the summer are heavy pedestrian traffic areas, which requires interruptions for crossings.”
Updated ADA-compliant crossings and push-button assemblies from the county to all the signals along Ventnor Avenue added to pedestrian safety.
The issue is far more complex, expensive and politically sensitive in Atlantic City, where synchronization is part of a larger plan, known as the Atlantic Avenue Road Diet. Funded by a $10.3 million federal infrastructure grant, the project would reduce Atlantic Avenue, one of the city’s main arteries, from two lanes in each direction to one, with an additional turning lane, along most of the 2.7 miles from Maine to Albany avenues.
The project also will add bike lanes, ADA-compliant sidewalks at each intersection and more street parking. City officials recently clarified too that a dedicated turning lane was part of the plan and that more lanes would be added around Missouri Avenue, the midtown interchange with the Atlantic City Expressway.
The project, more complex, will take longer and involve some political matches, given multiple phases will need to be completed, along with funding approved.
But the key, engineers and officials say, is the synchronization, which will improve safety and traffic flow.
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“The city’s goal is to improve vehicular and pedestrian safety within Atlantic City. Improving the safety of our streets is of paramount importance. One life lost is too many, especially when there are measures that can be implemented to achieve our goal,” said Andrew Kramer, a spokesperson for the city. “While we did not have the resources in the past, we do now as part of road diet funding.”
The road diet will be split into three phases. With the first phase of the project from Maine to Tennessee avenues underway, the best time to start the traffic light synchronization process is now, said city engineer Uzo Ahiarakwe.
“Even though it’s being installed while we’re doing this project, this is the best time to install it,” said Ahiarakwe about the fiber wiring required for the citywide traffic light synchronization system. “You don’t pave a street and then come back and tear it up.”
The city is in the process of putting lining fibers in Atlantic Avenue for the synchronization system. Engineers from Michael Baker International are coming up with a traffic light synchronization system for Atlantic Avenue. The design alone will cost the city $400,000, but it will be covered by funds from the project’s infrastructure grant.
Ahiarakwe said the order of paving, synchronization and lane striping will ensure a successful project.
“Once you have that, you have a fiber backbone,” said Rutala. “When there’s major events, you’ve changed signals timing. When there’s emergency evacuations, you could change the signal time — something we’ve never had before.” | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/absecon-island-in-varying-stages-of-synching-traffic-lights/article_65e85c42-fa56-11ed-97ca-bfe309d176d8.html | 2023-06-03T10:43:24 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/absecon-island-in-varying-stages-of-synching-traffic-lights/article_65e85c42-fa56-11ed-97ca-bfe309d176d8.html |
ATLANTIC CITY — Feuding Democrats on City Council may have voted down the city’s 2023 budget last week in a 5-4 protest vote, but now the elected officials are more sidelined than ever.
The state has the final say over the fate of the budget, so the council vote is not essential, a state representative said this week.
“Under the Municipal Stabilization and Recovery Act (MSRA), the State doesn’t need the City of Atlantic City’s governing body to adopt the municipal budget,” Department of Community Affairs spokesperson Lisa M. Ryan said Wednesday in an email response to questions.
The Local Finance Board approves the city budget, she said, and is scheduled to hear it June 14.
At-large Democratic Councilman George Tibbitt, who lost the council presidency in January after a falling out with Democratic Mayor Marty Small Sr., has said the May 24 vote was a “protest” over how the budget was developed between the state, Small’s administration and council members chosen by Council President Aaron “Sporty” Randolph.
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Council Vice President Kaleem Shabazz, on the other hand, has said the opposition vote was really about Tuesday’s primary election, which will determine if Small’s allies retake control of council or if his opponents will keep control.
All six ward seats are up this year, and Democrats are so dominant in the city that the primary will effectively choose the winner in most wards.
In the budget vote, for the first time 4th Ward Councilman MD Hossain Morshed joined the opposition block of three other Democrats and lone Republican Councilman Jesse Kurtz, giving them a 5-4 majority.
ATLANTIC CITY — City Council voted down the city’s $225.8 million annual budget Wednesday ev…
The anti-Small bloc not only voted down the $225.8 million budget that included a property tax decrease but also passed resolutions asking the state to investigate claims of sexual harassment in City Hall and of city employees doing political campaigning during work time.
Ryan said Wednesday the DCA’s Division of Local Government Services has no investigatory powers.
“The Hatch Act (related to election activities on the job) is a federal statute. The allegations of sexual harassment are criminal in nature, which would need to be referred to the correct law enforcement body,” Ryan said. “DLGS advised City Council to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office with any allegations.”
Two Democrats who voted against the budget and for the state investigations — Morshed and 2nd Ward Councilwoman LaToya Dunston — are up for reelection and did not get the coveted county line placement on the ballot that gives candidates a significant advantage.
Two other Democratic councilmen voting no — Tibbitt and Bruce Weekes — are at-large members who have feuded with Small, and their seats are not up for election.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office charged Morshed in March with falsifying voter registrations, making false statements to the FBI about interactions with prospective voters and submitting false unemployment benefits claims with the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Small has not asked for Morshed’s resignation, saying he never comments on other people’s legal problems.
Morshed got the support of the city’s Democratic committee in his reelection bid at its March meeting, but after the federal charges were announced, Atlantic County Democratic Chair Michael Suleiman called for Morshed’s resignation. Then he replaced him with George “Animal” Crouch on the county line of endorsed candidates.
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Morshed remains on the ballot on a separate line.
Crouch is the vice president of the city’s Dolphins youth football league, and Small is supporting him.
“All I know is this: I was very honest and upfront with the councilman,” Small said of Morshed. “I said to him, ‘A lot of people lined up to support you are no longer supporting you because of your current situation.’ It was my job and obligation to tell him that.”
After the budget vote, Morshed said he considers the mayor a friend, but he is tired of Small controlling everything.
Voting in favor of the budget were Randolph, Shabazz, at-large Councilwoman Stephanie Marshall and 5th Ward Councilman Muhammad Zia.
Shabazz wanted Small to call a special meeting and have council vote again on the budget, presumably to pass it this time and show the state and public they can work together for the benefit of residents.
But Small would not call that meeting.
Tibbitt, Dunston and Weekes have taken several public stances that alienated Small. They joined Kurtz last year in supporting a Republican for Atlantic County commissioner rather than incumbent Democratic Commissioner Ernest Coursey, who is Small’s chief of staff.
Atlantic City Councilman MD Hossain Morshed was charged Friday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office…
Coursey was reelected.
They also joined Kurtz in supporting a ballot question to establish nonpartisan elections in the city. The public question, which would have stripped power from the Democratic Party, failed.
In September, Morshed was charged with assaulting his wife in their home and with endangering the welfare of a child. The child endangerment charge was downgraded in January to simple assault.
Dunston has long been a critic of Small’s administration and has filed a $1 million tort claim, saying Small and other council members conspired against her in an illegal meeting unknown to the public and have harassed her in various ways. Small and others have denied Dunston’s claims. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/atlantic-city-democrats-feud-going-into-primary-as-state-decides-on-budget/article_802983d2-ff0c-11ed-86cc-4799ce385ff5.html | 2023-06-03T10:43:30 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/atlantic-city-democrats-feud-going-into-primary-as-state-decides-on-budget/article_802983d2-ff0c-11ed-86cc-4799ce385ff5.html |
Atlantic County officials announced a series of delays scheduled for next week in different parts of the county.
Landis Avenue Bridge in Hamilton Township will experience a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern from Monday to Wednesday. The delays will occur from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the South River bridge crossing near the intersection of Estelle Avenue for guide rail replacement work.
Egg Harbor Township
A series of delays will be in effect for work done by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.
Ocean Heights Avenue: From Monday through Friday, a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will be in effect between Steelmanville and Blackman roads from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mill Road: From Monday through Friday, a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will be in effect between Fire Road and Patcong Drive from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Steelmaville Road: From Monday through Friday, a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will be in effect between Ocean Heights Avenue and Blackman Road from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Zion Road: From Monday through Friday, a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will be in effect between Bargaintown and Old Zion roads from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Galloway Township
A single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will be in effect from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Monday through Friday on Jimmie Leeds Road between Pitney Road and Route 9 for county paving.
All advisories are weather pending. For more information, go to aclink.org. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/hamilton-egg-harbor-galloway-townships-to-experience-delays-beginning-monday/article_53b27bbc-0199-11ee-817b-4f4fed6e88a5.html | 2023-06-03T11:14:48 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/hamilton-egg-harbor-galloway-townships-to-experience-delays-beginning-monday/article_53b27bbc-0199-11ee-817b-4f4fed6e88a5.html |
BEACON UU PRIDE SUNDAY SERVICE: “Dress Up, Drag and Deadly Politics” Jun 4 — Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 510 N. Leroux St., Flagstaff. (928) 779-4492. 10-11 a.m., ALL ARE WELCOME! You BELONG at Beacon. Spiritually open and intentionally inclusive since 1958. Drag has always been political, as far back as Biblical times and Shakespearean theatre. But today there is a real and present danger to the LGBTQ community and to those who express an identity through Drag. The ACLU, among others, now offers seminars on topics such as “Drag in Trump’s America.” More and more states are passing heinous laws criminalizing or curbing the presentation of Drag in nightclubs, libraries, and the public square. The President of Flagstaff Pride, Deb Taylor, will be with us as we explore our role as active resistors to this trend and how Beacon UU can engender and sustain a safe space for all identities as a “welcoming congregation.” Rev. Robin Landerman Zucker, preaching with Worship Associate Lise Breakey. Music from Austin Shaw and Kim Angelo. https://go.evvnt.com/1764016-0.
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PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Jun 4 — 3430 N. Fourth St., 3430 N. Fourth St., Flagstaff. 928-526-9578. 10-11 a.m., We invite you to join the family of Peace Lutheran Church (LCMS) on Sunday at 10:00am for in person blended service (Combined Liturgical, hymnal based and Praise Worship) with Holy Communion. Pastor William Weiss Jr. (Pastor Bill) will be presiding. The service will be live streamed on our website (peacelutheranflagstaff.org) and on YouTube. Fellowship and refreshments are available before the worship service beginning 9:15am. https://go.evvnt.com/1761926-0.
LIVING CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH Jun 4 — 500 W. Riordan Road, 500 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff. 928-526-8595. 10-11 a.m., We invite all to celebrate with us God's love and presence in our lives and be God's hands in the world. We are intentionally inclusive. We worship through music, teaching, prayer, and the sacraments each Sunday at 10 a.m., at the Campus Ministry Center located on the NAU campus or join us online. Join Rev. Kurt Fangmeier for The Holy Trinity Sunday! Though the word trinity is not found in the scriptures, today’s second reading includes the apostolic greeting that begins the liturgy: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. In the gospel Jesus sends his disciples forth to baptize in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. More than a doctrine, the Trinity expresses the heart of our faith: we have experienced the God of creation made known in Jesus Christ and with us always through the Holy Spirit. We celebrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity in word and sacrament, as we profess the creed, and as we are sent into the world to bear witness to our faith. We will learn more with our Reading of Genesis 1:1-2:4a (The creation of the heavens and the earth) Psalm 8 (How majestic is your name in all the earth! and Reading 2Corinthians 13:11-13(Paul’s farewell to the church at Corinth) together with the Gospel Matthew 28:16-20 (Living in the community of the Trinity). https://go.evvnt.com/1761384-0.
Flagstaff Federated Community Church Please join us for in person services Sundays at 10 a.m. We are located at 400 W Aspen Ave. on the corner of Aspen and Sitgreaves in Downtown Flagstaff. All are welcome to our services. For more information about Flagstaff Federated Community Church please call our office at 928-774-7383, Mon – Thurs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Church of the Resurrection Sunday Church Services 740 W. University Heights Drive S., 740 W. University Heights Drive S., Flagstaff. 928-853-8522. 10-11:30 a.m., Church of the Resurrection Presbyterian Church in America (PCA): We invite you to join us for worship at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 740 W. University Heights Drive South. Please feel free to contact us for information on our mid-week gatherings and for more information on our church. You can find us at www.cor-pca.org and www.facebook.com/CORFlagstaff or we can be reached at corflagstaff@gmail.com and (928) 699-2715.
Leupp Nazarene Church The church, near mile post 13 or Navajo Route 15, has been holding services by teleconferences and doing drive-up meetings. For information, call pastor Farrell Begay at 928-853-5321. Teleconference number: 1-7170275-8940 with access code 3204224#. Services are 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sundays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays.
Christian Science Society of Flagstaff 619 W. Birch Ave. Bible Lesson services every Sunday 10-11am (Zoom option: https://zoom.us/j/369812794). Testimony Meetings every Wednesday: 5:30-6:30pm (Zoom option: https://zoom.us/j/971672834). Zoom password: CSS. | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/flagstaff-religion-news-for-june-3-2023/article_56563196-00e6-11ee-8196-cb1093669c05.html | 2023-06-03T11:34:20 | 0 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/flagstaff-religion-news-for-june-3-2023/article_56563196-00e6-11ee-8196-cb1093669c05.html |
A 17-year-old was stabbed while riding the subway in Brooklyn Friday night, and police said they believe three other teenagers may be responsible for the attack.
The incident occurrent just after 9 p.m. aboard a Manhattan-bound D train approaching the Union Street subway station in Park Slope, according to police. The victim and the alleged attackers got involved in an argument, when things quickly turned violent.
The victim was stabbed in the thigh, police said. A motive for the stabbing and what sparked the argument was not immediately clear, nor was it known whether the victim and the attackers knew each other.
The three teens, all males, fled the scene immediately after the train arrived at Union Street. The victim was taken to the hospital and is expected to recover.
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An investigation is ongoing. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/17-year-old-stabbed-while-riding-d-train-in-brooklyn-police-search-for-3-teens/4390683/ | 2023-06-03T11:35:27 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/17-year-old-stabbed-while-riding-d-train-in-brooklyn-police-search-for-3-teens/4390683/ |
Mosquitoes be warned: New York City says your days are numbered.
The city's Health Department plans to spray sections of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island with an aerial larviciding treatment next week. The city will be targeting marshes and wetland areas, weather permitting, and the helicopter doling out the spray will only be treating nonresidential areas.
The spraying will occur on June 8 and June 9 (Thursday and Friday), as well as Monday, June 12, from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m., the Health Department said. The aerial application is aimed at killing young mosquitoes before they grow into adults.
The treatment is being deployed in order to reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus. No such cases have been reported yet this season.
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Here are the neighborhoods on the city's list:
- Staten Island: Parts of Castleton Corners, Elm Park, Graniteville, Meiers Corners, Mid Island, Port Richmond, Randall Manor, Silver Lake, Sunnyside, Tompkinsville, Westerleigh, West New Brighton and Willowbrook
- Brooklyn: Parts of Bergen Beach, Brownsville, Canarsie, East Flatbush, East New York, Flatlands, Homecrest, Madison, Marine Park, Midwood, Mill Basin, New Lots, Remsen Village, Sheepshead Bay, Spring Creek and Starrett City
See the maps below for details on which ZIP codes will be spread in the upcoming round.
Staten Island
Brooklyn
Mosquito-spraying is critical this time of year because a resurgence of insects and bugs could fuel the summer spread of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus. Later in the summer, the city will likely use trucks to spray residential areas and use pesticides that pose a low risk to humans and pets.
However, sensitive groups, such as people with respiratory issues may be affected. Vulnerable people should stay indoors during the hours crews are spraying when possible and close air conditioner vents if they can. They should also wash any skin and clothing exposed to pesticides. That goes for fruits and vegetables that may be exposed as well.
The most effective way to control mosquitoes, according to New York City, is to eliminate any standing water. Here are a few other ways to reduce your exposure:
- Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3) or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535
- Make sure windows have screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes
- Eliminate any standing water from your property and dispose of containers that can collect water. Failure to do so violates NYC health regulations
- Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly
- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered if not in use. Drain water that collects in pool covers | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/bye-bye-mosquitoes-these-nyc-neighborhoods-will-be-sprayed-next-week/4390717/ | 2023-06-03T11:35:33 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/bye-bye-mosquitoes-these-nyc-neighborhoods-will-be-sprayed-next-week/4390717/ |
Just as Pride Month begins, there's an uproar in a New Jersey borough after the district superintendent ordered a Pride lawn sign removed from school grounds.
The controversy centers on Westwood Regional Middle School in Westwood, a town where the LGBTQ signs depicting the Pride flag are displayed outside of homes. But around the corner at the school, the same signs were ordered to be taken down just a day after it was placed on the lawn.
"This is something that’s real, it’s something that’s OK," said high school senior MacKenzie Fox. "Just to have a sign out there tells us this is a safe space. That we do belong and our sexuality and our gender, whatever it is, is valid."
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Fox is a student representative to the school board. She started an online petition asking the superintendent to bring back the sign and allow it on school grounds.
"I know I have the support of my teachers, students and classmates, I just wish the administration would do the same," said Fox.
So far, more than 1,000 people have signed the petition. Fox says the lawn sign was placed outside the middle school last week in preparation for Pride Month.
"He had told them the signs violated the flag policy and he has been the one to tell the principal to take them down," Fox said.
Last month, Westwood’s Board of Education passed a policy only allowing the American and New Jersey state flag to be displayed outside of schools. The policy does not prevent Pride flags from being displayed inside — as evidenced by multiple Pride flags being seen hanging on school windows on Friday.
Michael Pontillo, Westwood School Board President commented on the decision limiting what flags can be displayed last month during a board meeting.
"Nobody is up here saying to a principal ‘No, that flag will not fly in the school.’ Last year, there were flags all over the school and there’s nobody that’s going to prevent that from happening again this year," said Pontillo.
When reached, Interim Superintendent Kenneth Rota did not comment. The new policy doesn’t address banners or signs outside, but Fox told NBC New York that the superintendent told her a sign which depicts a flag falls in the same category.
"Lawn signs are not flags and it should not apply at all," Fox said.
The school board president told NBC New York over the phone that he deferred all questions to the superintendent for comment. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/nj-school-orders-pride-sign-removed-from-grounds-sparking-heated-controversy/4390712/ | 2023-06-03T11:35:39 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/nj-school-orders-pride-sign-removed-from-grounds-sparking-heated-controversy/4390712/ |
Police have identified one of the two men who were alleged seen on surveillance camera chasing and attacking a New Jersey mail carrier, knocking him to the ground and shaking him in the span of 30 seconds.
Millburn Police said that 24-year-old Zachary Lyttle, of New City, New York, was one of the two men who carried out the violent robbery on May 13. He faces 2nd-degree robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery charges, and a warrant is out for his arrest, police said Friday.
A home camera not only captured the screams for help from the incident on Walnut Avenue, but also showed the pair of suspected thieves roughing up the mailman. The letter carrier repeatedly called for his iPhone to call 911 as the duo swiped a set of keys, he said.
The attack went down outside of Lenny Weiland's home, with the mailman telling him that the robbers had been following him along his route.
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"They were watching. They knew exactly what he was doing. As a matter of fact, the postal worker who was attacked, it was his second day on the job," said Weiland.
The US Postal Inspection Service will only say it is investigating the attack. While on the phone with a 911 dispatcher, the mailman said the suspects stole his keys — including one that’s used to open mailboxes in apartment buildings.
Weiland later watched video of the attack, and believes the suspects hid between a dumpster and storage unit.
News
"So the first approach, attack happened here. And then they went around as you saw in the video," said Weiland.
Police are still looking for the other suspect seen in the video. Video showed the suspected robbers run to a get away car, possibly a silver Mercedes-Benz.
The postal worker suffered minor injuries. Both Millburn police and the Postal Inspection Service continue to investigate. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/suspect-identified-in-attack-on-nj-postal-worker-during-his-2nd-day-on-job/4390671/ | 2023-06-03T11:35:45 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/suspect-identified-in-attack-on-nj-postal-worker-during-his-2nd-day-on-job/4390671/ |
EUREKA — The Eureka Business Association’s annual Eureka Market on the courthouse lawn will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17.
This year’s event will feature 85 vendors, including several food options like ice cream, baked goods, pork chops and tacos.
There will be kid-friendly activities, crafts, yard art, jewelry, handmade items and more for sale during the event.
Matt Eckberg, Shane Rocke, The Haircuts and Word on the Street will provide entertainment.
Visit the “Eureka Market on the Courthouse Lawn” page on Facebook for more information.
Photos: Eureka College at Illinois Wesleyan University baseball.
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs
The business news you need
Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. | https://pantagraph.com/business/local/eureka-business-association-market-set-for-june-17/article_aea80ee4-00a7-11ee-bded-07d6cf448f81.html | 2023-06-03T11:42:00 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/business/local/eureka-business-association-market-set-for-june-17/article_aea80ee4-00a7-11ee-bded-07d6cf448f81.html |
100 years ago: Pekin High School has 50th commencement
Learn to navigate the Newspapers.com database, perform browsing and complex search functions, and save clippings using a free user account. Tutorial developed by the University of Alabama Libraries.
How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region. 100 years ago
June 3, 1923: The 50th commencement exercises for Pekin High School will be held June 7. Professor Frank S. Bogardus, dean of the Indiana State Normal at Terre Haute, Ind., will be the speaker. A class of 61, the largest in the history of the school, will graduate.
75 years ago
June 3, 1948: Dr. and Mrs. Lowell B. Hazzard, 1206 N. Prairie St., have a tea party at their home every afternoon, with the exception of Sunday, for anyone on the Illinois Wesleyan campus. Dr. Hazzard is professor of religion at IWU. The get-togethers are informal.
50 years agoJune 3, 1973: Richard C. Trefzger received a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. John D. Trefzger, 16 Woodruff Drive. Dr. Trefzger graduated from Bloomington High School in 1966.
25 years ago
June 3, 1998: A Normal businessman will purchase the last buildings at the former Illinois Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Children’s School from the town if a proposed remodeling plan is approved by the town council. Tyler E. Ernst proposes turning the Y dorms at 705 E. Lincoln St. and 706 E. Oglesby St. into a multi-use office park. He also anticipates having a small convention/training center, a reception hall and a fitness center at the 6.45-acre site.
101 years ago: See vintage Pantagraph ads from 1922 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/history/100-years-ago-pekin-high-school-has-50th-commencement/article_96c823f2-fd8e-11ed-81b3-d7b8092b5434.html | 2023-06-03T11:42:06 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/history/100-years-ago-pekin-high-school-has-50th-commencement/article_96c823f2-fd8e-11ed-81b3-d7b8092b5434.html |
CROWN POINT — Diets be damned. Let’s get something to eat and listen to live entertainment.
That may have described the mood late Friday afternoon at Bulldog Park as people quickly filled the covered facility for the annual corn roast sponsored by Crossroads.
With 29 vendors, the annual roast serves as a fundraiser for Crossroads. The regional Chamber of Commerce has about 600 members, from the Chicago suburbs to South Bend.
“This kicks off summer and the first week the kids are out of school,” said Deann Patena, Crossroads president and CEO. “All the college kids are home. It’s like a little reunion.”
The program continues from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday at the downtown park. DJ music begins at 2, with live performers starting at 5.
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For those with an unsure palate, the corn roast features a variety of offerings: Polish sausage, pork, lemon shake-ups, ice cream, kettle corn, tacos and pretzels.
Josh Freeman and his mother, Jane, from Hobart were sampling corn. Josh was starting his third ear.
“Three so far. It’s really tender,” he said, noting that he tries to hit all the summer festivals in Northwest Indiana. “It’s a Friday night and it’s a corn roast.”
For Jane, “it’s nice to get out. This is the first festival of the season. It’s hot, but I don’t mind it.”
John Cotton of the South Lake County Shrine Club chairs the corn booth. Upon hearing someone compliment the corn, he replied: “We don’t grow it. We just bought it.”
Noting that the Shriners have been doing the corn roast “a long time,” Cotton estimated that 100 ears would be sold, including 65 that first night. He planned to order at least 35 ears for Saturday.
Other local groups, including the Crown Point Community Library, had a booth at the roast. “This is a great way for us to connect with the community,” library Director Julie Wendorf said.
Wendorf said the roast enables the library to promote several programs, including summer reading, trolley tours of historic homes, and movie nights at Bulldog Park.
Wendorf reported that 548 children had registered after just two days for summer reading.
Don Campbell of Sausage King was serving mild Polish sausage, something he’s been doing for 28 years at the roast. He remembered when the roast took place on the courthouse square. Patena said that was Crossroads’ fourth roast at Bulldog Park.
“It’s hometown, the best show of the summer,” Campbell said. “I used to do 14 festivals. Now I just do this one.”
Michele Beckman, who has worked with Campbell for 15 years, also likes the location.
“It’s close to home,” she said. "I grew up in Crown Point, graduated from the high school. Crown Point is just a nice town.” | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/business/crown-point-corn-roast-kicks-off-festival-season/article_47c0e238-01a5-11ee-bc53-4f7d36d3ff5d.html | 2023-06-03T11:45:44 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/business/crown-point-corn-roast-kicks-off-festival-season/article_47c0e238-01a5-11ee-bc53-4f7d36d3ff5d.html |
Library cancels transgender speaker after Montana bans drag readings
Montana's new law banning drag reading events at public libraries has led to the cancellation of a Native American transgender speaker in a southwestern Montana city on Friday.
The Butte-Silver Bow Public Library canceled its “First Friday” speaker, Adria Jawort, at the recommendation of county attorneys, library director Stef Johnson said in a statement on the library's website.
On Monday, Jawort posted online that she was going to do an LGBTQ and two-spirit history lecture at a library on Friday. "Two-spirit” is a Native American term for people with both male and female spirits.
The speech might be illegal in Montana "as a flamboyantly dressed trans woman,” she posted. On Thursday she said her Tweet was meant to mock the law that bans drag reading events at public schools and libraries. Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte signed it on May 22 and it took effect immediately.
Under the law, “drag queen” is defined as a performer who adopts a “flamboyant … feminine persona with glamorous or exaggerated costumes and makeup.” A “drag story hour” is defined as when a drag king or drag queen reads children’s books and engages in learning activities.
Jawort's social media post said that she would definitely have a book, that sexuality would be discussed and minors might be present.
Someone submitted a complaint via Facebook, County Attorney Eileen Joyce said. Joyce told NBC Montana the county was “erring on the side of caution” in canceling the event.
Under the law, a library would risk its public funding if it held such an event.
“Our commitment to promoting inclusivity and intellectual exploration remains, but not in violation of law,” Johnson said in a statement.
Jawort described herself as somewhat of a fashionista who dresses professionally for events, but certainly not in drag.
When the bill was debated in the Montana Legislature in February, transgender Rep. Zooey Zephyr, a Democrat, said the legislation would target transgender people.
House Majority Leader Sue Vinton, a Republican, stood up and said, “Mr. Chair, this bill has nothing to do with the transgender community.”
Jawort also spoke against the legislation.
“The irony is I testified against this bill saying it would target trans people that would include, of course, me,” Jawort posted on social media Thursday. “They denied it. Now here I am, targeted.”
Jawort likened her library speech being canceled to the silencing of Zephyr after her testimony against a bill to ban transgender medical care for minors and Zephyr's later removal from the House floor for her participation in a protest over her silencing.
“One of my best defenses against bigotry … is just educating the public and doing these speeches about the history of two-spirit people,” who have long been recognized by Native American tribes, Jawort said.
Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher issued a proclamation Thursday marking the beginning of Pride month and encouraged residents to support the visibility, dignity and equality of all people, including LGBTQ+ residents. | https://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/montana-library-cancels-trans-speaker-after-ban-on-drag-readings/70282794007/ | 2023-06-03T11:49:49 | 1 | https://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/local/2023/06/02/montana-library-cancels-trans-speaker-after-ban-on-drag-readings/70282794007/ |
Get up off the couch: June 3 is World Bicycle Day! It’s a great excuse to head off for a bike ride. There are plenty of beautiful local parks and bike trails to try. Here’s a way to find some motivation: Ride to the nearest place selling ice cream! For more information about county bike trails and parks, go to kenoshacounty.org.
The Outta Sight Kite Flight is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today in Kennedy Park, 40th Street and the lakefront. Miss Kenosha 2023 Willow Newell will sing the national anthem at noon, followed by the Grand Launch, with hundreds of kites in the air at one time. New this year: IKEA, a festival sponsor, will set up its IKEA Lounge under a tent, with coloring activities, free cookies and IKEA outdoor furniture to try. Admission is free. Food and kites will be available to purchase. Note: Day two is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
The rescheduled Dorian Gray Art Show, featuring several local artists, plus three bands performing, starts at 1 p.m. at the Port of Kenosha, 714 50th St. The music starts at 6 p.m. Admission is free.
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Tonight is the first fireworks game of the season at Kenosha’s Simmons Field. The Kenosha Kingfish are hosting the Traverse City Pit Spitters for a 6:35 p.m. game. After the game, stick around for the free fireworks show. For tickets, call 262-653-0900 or go to kingfishbaseball.com. .
Grab your fishing pole for Wisconsin’s Free Fishing Weekend. Anglers of all ages and experience levels are encouraged by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to participate. Residents and non-residents will not be required to have a fishing license or trout/salmon stamps. (All other fishing regulations apply, including bag and length limits.) Fishing is free anywhere in Wisconsin without a fishing license on this weekend only, June 3-4. As a bonus: Admission to all state parks, state forests and state trails is FREE all weekend!
Looking for a short road trip? There are plenty of summer season celebrations along the I-94 corridor from Milwaukee to Chicago. Options today include: Milwaukee’s PrideFest at Henry W. Maier Festival Park, 200 N. Harbor Drive (pridefest.com); the Chicago Gospel Music Festival in Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St. (cityofchicago.org) and the Milwaukee Highland Games in Croatian Park, 9100 S. 76th St. in Franklin (milwaukeehighlandgames.org). Whatever you decide, remember to buckle up and drive safely. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/kenosha-area-events-for-saturday-june-3/article_d679cde8-fffa-11ed-a6ec-cf09ad7c02bb.html | 2023-06-03T12:15:26 | 1 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/kenosha-area-events-for-saturday-june-3/article_d679cde8-fffa-11ed-a6ec-cf09ad7c02bb.html |
Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank exceeds 4.5 million meal goal in 2023 campaign
- More people relied on the Foodbank's services in 2022 than years past due to inflation and a decrease in pandemic-related relief and benefits.
- Giant Eagle and Buehler's Fresh Foods are among the largest contributors.
CANTON ‒ In its ongoing efforts to fight local hunger, the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank has exceeded its Harvest for Hunger meal goal for 2023.
The Foodbank’s initial goal, announced in late February, was aimed at collecting monetary and food donations equivalent to 4.5 million meals. The organization surpassed that goal, raising $1.2 million and 77,700 pounds of food — a total of 4,848,129 meals for Northeast Ohio communities.
On Friday afternoon, the agency hosted a beach-themed open house celebration at its Stark County warehouse.
Every 1.2 pounds collected is equivalent to one meal and every dollar donated is equivalent to four meals, said Raven Gayhart, the Foodbank's public relations and communications manager.
More:'Acts of Grace.' Akron-Canton Foodbank surpasses 2022 Harvest for Hunger campaign goal
The Harvest for Hunger meal campaign is coordinated by four major food banks in Northeast Ohio: the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley and Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio. 2023 marks the 32nd anniversary of the campaign to fundraise and collect food donations for hunger-relief efforts.
Daniel R. Flowers, president and CEO of the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, thanked community members, Foodbank board members and the campaigns two largest contributors: Giant Eagle and Buehler's Fresh Foods.
“Over half of the money for the campaign came from those two entities alone,” Flowers said.
More people relied on the Foodbank's services in 2022 than years past due to inflation and a decrease in pandemic-related relief and benefits, Flowers said.
According to a survey by the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, 68% of Ohioans had to choose between food and transportation/gas within the last 2-3 months and more than 8 in 10 Ohio food bank clients are seeking help because of increased food costs.
“Hunger never takes a holiday,” said Flowers. “You need [food] every day.”
The regional foodbank provides food to pantries and agencies across Carroll, Holmes, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties.
The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church’s Good Samaritans program in Akron provides food to 200 households a month through its partnership with the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, said Rev. Dean Kokanos.
The Good Samaritans Program distributed over 62,000 pounds of food and 13,000 pounds of fresh produce in 2022.
“We are so grateful to have a successful campaign, because without this partnership, it would be cost prohibitive to give out the amount of food we do every month,” says Kokanos. “Most of It comes from here.” | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/akron-canton-regional-foodbank-exceeds-goal-for-harvest-for-hunger/70277983007/ | 2023-06-03T12:37:39 | 0 | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/akron-canton-regional-foodbank-exceeds-goal-for-harvest-for-hunger/70277983007/ |
GARY — Dena Holland-Neal wants state regulators to address the negative health effects of industrial pollution.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer six months ago. She also has a friend whose battled three kinds of cancer and was told that environmental contamination was a contributing factor.
"We're told by the federal government that 'this is healthy air, just keep breathing it, you'll be fine,' but we're not fine," Holland-Neal said.
About a dozen people addressed the Indiana Department of Environmental Management during a public meeting Thursday. Many attendees echoed Holland-Neal's concerns.
"If the guidelines are what they should be, then why are we so sick?" Gard Advocates for Responsible Development member Carolyn McCrady asked.
The meeting was organized after GARD and the Environmental Law and Policy Center raised concerns about a proposed air-permit renewal for a lime plant in Gary.
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Carmeuse Lime Inc., situated in the Buffington Harbor area of Gary, provides limestone to steel mills; it's one of the main ingredients burned in blast furnaces to make pig iron. The company has asked the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to renew its five-year air-quality permit, which was last renewed in 2014.
Public comment on the renewal initially ended May 5. However, after GARD and the ELPC issued news releases calling for tighter regulations, public comment was extended to June 5.
The ELPC noted that Carmeuse has been cited for a number of violations. Most recently, an October inspection of the facility found seven violations.
"If they're not being diligent, why would you give them the opportunity to continue?" Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, asked IDEM during the meeting.
Jenny Acker, chief of IDEM's Air Permits Branch, said the agency is legally obligated to issue permits as long as they meet the requirements. Even if a company is in violation, IDEM will not "yank their permit, we're going to work with them to get them back into compliance."
In a company statement, Carmeuse said it is working "closely with IDEM to resolve outstanding enforcement issues." The company also noted that the proposed renewal did not include any emission increases.
Even if Carmeuse's emissions hold steady, GARD member Kimmie Gordon said, "enough is enough." She said U.S. Steel and all the other industrial facilities in north Lake County have a cumulative impact on the Region's air quality.
A recent greenhouse-gas inventory found that industry accounts for more than 90% of Gary's emissions.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Justice Screen tool, the five-mile radius surrounding Carmeuse is in the highest percentiles in the country for diesel emissions, fine-particulate-matter air pollution and proximity to hazardous waste. An analysis by The Guardian newspaper of research from the University of Washington and Virginia Tech this year found that Northwest Indiana's industrial core had the fourth-worst PM 2.5 air pollution in the country.
PM 2.5 is a kind of fine-particulate air pollutant that can get into the deepest part of the lungs, even into the bloodstream. It is emitted by industrial operations, vehicles and wildfires.
Four of Lake County's nine air monitoring stations are in Gary; Acker said the monitors have not detected any air pollution exceedances.
McCrady said the pollution guidelines might be set too low: "It just doesn't make any sense for you to tell me that the air monitoring devices are working and yet we are overpolluted in this city."
Acker said much of Gary's environmental contamination can be traced to decades of zoning decisions that allowed industrial facilities to locate in the steel city. By the time a company applies for an air permit with IDEM, the state agency is obligated to "follow the letter of the law," Acker explained.
In recent years, she's started to see local zoning commissions pull zoning permits after public outcry. "Your comments are getting heard outside this room," Acker assured the audience.
However, multiple speakers said environmental battles shouldn't always fall to private citizens, especially because many of the state permits and regulations can be difficult to understand.
"I don't care what the project is, I don't care how many dollars it brings to the community, it doesn't matter if it hurts our residents," said Rep. Ragen Hatcher, D-Gary. "The city of Gary does not want any additional industrial pollution."
IDEM will issue a permit decision after reviewing all public comment. The agency will also respond to all written comment. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/gary/idem-holds-public-meeting-for-gary-lime-plant-seeking-renewal-of-air-permit/article_5de76756-017f-11ee-b4c5-8b3087aadfcf.html | 2023-06-03T12:42:24 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/gary/idem-holds-public-meeting-for-gary-lime-plant-seeking-renewal-of-air-permit/article_5de76756-017f-11ee-b4c5-8b3087aadfcf.html |
Average daily flows
Snake River at Jackson 290 cfs
Snake River at Palisades 14,106 cfs
Snake River at Heise 16,980 cfs
Snake River at Blackfoot 11,775 cfs
Snake River at American Falls 7,787 cfs
Snake River at Milner 0 cfs
Little Wood River near Carey 633 cfs
Jackson Lake is 64% full.
Palisades Reservoir is 86% full.
American Falls Reservoir is 90% full.
Upper Snake River system is at 90% of capacity.
As of June 2 | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/average-daily-streamflows/article_c9b466b4-017f-11ee-9c5c-7738c647cfe6.html | 2023-06-03T12:52:52 | 0 | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/average-daily-streamflows/article_c9b466b4-017f-11ee-9c5c-7738c647cfe6.html |
A man who was employed as a teacher at Wendell High School has been charged with sending nude photos to students last year, court records say.
Joseph C. Swainston, 25, faces three misdemeanor charges of disseminating material harmful minors to three male teenagers, at least two of them students, and surrendered on a warrant Thursday night and posted a $15,000 bond, said Trevor Misseldine, Gooding County prosecuting attorney.
The Times-News was unable to confirm Friday whether Swainston is still employed by the school district.
A deputy with the Gooding County Sheriff’s Office met with the school principal on May 8, and the school official said he had become aware that Swainston, who at that time was employed as a teacher, is suspected of sending the photos to the teens, ages 16 to 17.
Court records say the photos of a man in a shower, showing his genitals, were sent through the social media app Snapchat between June 1 and Oct. 1, 2022.
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A deputy interviewed Swainston on May 9 at the high school. Swainston said he had taken pictures of himself in the shower but sent the photos to his wife, not the minors.
One of the victims said he sent a message to Swainston about the photo, after which Swainston blocked him on the app.
Another victim said that he had received “weird” messages from Swainston but did not go into detail about them with police. Then he said he received a photo of a male in the shower, records say.
Both students said they recognized the shower in the photo as being located in Swainston’s home.
Swainston is scheduled to be arraigned on June 26. | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/man-suspected-of-sending-nude-photos-to-boys/article_f052bdba-019e-11ee-be23-3b58cbdf8d94.html | 2023-06-03T12:52:58 | 1 | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/man-suspected-of-sending-nude-photos-to-boys/article_f052bdba-019e-11ee-be23-3b58cbdf8d94.html |
A suicide prevention concert featuring musician EllieMae will be held Saturday at Jerome City Park.
In addition to the free concert at 1 p.m. and hosted by OverComers Church, speakers will address the crowd on various aspects of suicide prevention.
Various organizations will hand out information on suicide prevention at the concert, and there will also be free pizza, soda and giveaways.
EllieMae is well-known locally for her singing and guitar playing and for competing on the televised competition Voice. She has appeared on stage with the likes of country singer John Michael Montgomery.
“When I talked to her, she was very excited to have the community come together,” said Rev. Harriman Randle of the OverComers Church.
He emphasized that the concert is not a church event, but a community event in which everyone is invited.
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“The last three months I’ve been having individuals ask me if I could pray for families of loves ones who have committed suicide,” Randle said, relating that he had a flashback from years ago about members of a church youth group crying after an acquaintance had committed suicide at the age of 11.
“I thought we had to do something,” Randle said.
The park is at 300 E. Main St. | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/suicide-prevention-concert-set-for-saturday-in-jerome/article_6387bea6-015f-11ee-b542-0f96df484f83.html | 2023-06-03T12:53:04 | 0 | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/suicide-prevention-concert-set-for-saturday-in-jerome/article_6387bea6-015f-11ee-b542-0f96df484f83.html |
A Twin Falls man was arrested after firefighters were called to his apartment Monday and found an explosive device that resembled a homemade grenade, police say.
Charles Jack Hansen, 64, a convicted felon, was charged with unlawful possession of a destructive device when firefighters were called to his house after he suffered a seizure, a police affidavit says.
Hansen was transported to the hospital, and firefighters saw an item on a wall at the residence on the 200 block of Locust Street in Twin Falls that appeared to be a booby trap made of a 12-gauge shotgun shell with a spring-loaded firing pin and alerted police, records say.
It appeared to be capable of being fired manually or could be rigged to go off when a door was opened, and was pointed at what would be the head and shoulders of an average-sized person.
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Hansen, who faces a June 9 preliminary hearing, told police it was an alarm system, records say. | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/twin-falls-man-charged-with-having-illegal-explosive/article_56cba940-0199-11ee-8cc3-6bcaa1f99f28.html | 2023-06-03T12:53:11 | 0 | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/twin-falls-man-charged-with-having-illegal-explosive/article_56cba940-0199-11ee-8cc3-6bcaa1f99f28.html |
A wildfire that has stretched across 120 acres of land is ongoing in Medford, New Jersey on Saturday morning.
According to officials, the fire is burning in the area of Elderberry Drive and Jackson Road.
As of about 7:50 a.m., officials have said the fire was only about 20-percent contained.
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Officials in Medford said that Jackson Road is closed as of 8 a.m. on Saturday. Currently, about 40 residential properties are threatened by the wildfire, officials said.
Local fire companies are working to protect these structures, officials said.
Officials plan to provide an update on the status of this wildfire later on Saturday morning.
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This is a breaking news story. It will be updated as new information becomes available.
Sign up for our Breaking newsletter to get the most urgent news stories in your inbox. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/wildfire-engulfs-120-acres-in-medford/3578436/ | 2023-06-03T13:03:55 | 1 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/wildfire-engulfs-120-acres-in-medford/3578436/ |
SOUTH BEND, Ind. — A statewide Silver Alert has been issued for a teenager missing from South Bend.
The South Bend Police Department is investigating the disappearance of 13-year-old Devyne Lewis, who's described as 5 feet 1 inch tall and 120 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a dark blue polo shirt, tan shorts and white tennis shoes.
Lewis was last seen at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 2, is believed to be in extreme danger and may be in need of medical assistance, Indiana State Police said.
Anyone with information on Lewis' whereabouts is asked to contact South Bend Police at 574-235-9201 or call 911.
Amber Alert vs. Silver Alert: What's the difference?
There are specific standards a person's disappearance must meet in order for police to declare an Amber Alert or a Silver Alert.
Amber Alerts are for children under the age of 18 who are believed to have been abducted and in danger. Police also need to have information about a suspect and their car to issue an Amber Alert.
Silver Alerts are for missing and endangered adults or children. They are much more common for missing people. It was not until last year when the standards for Silver Alerts were expanded to include children.
In both situations, these alerts must be issued by police. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/silver-alert-declared-missing-south-bend-teen/531-da3c0c78-8294-4a47-88e9-2c61c5454f2e | 2023-06-03T13:05:15 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/silver-alert-declared-missing-south-bend-teen/531-da3c0c78-8294-4a47-88e9-2c61c5454f2e |
News Tribune, June 3, 1983
- Donald Wheat announced yesterday that his Wheat Motor Company will open a luxury motorhome factory in Duluth. City officials said the business will create 115 to 350 jobs and pump up to $9 million a year into Duluth's sagging economy.
- The Duluth City Council will vote again this week on a proposal to stage a Willie Nelson concert in Wade Stadium this summer. The proposal was previously defeated 4-4, but now Councilor James Shearer, who missed the first vote, said he will vote in favor of the concert.
News Tribune, June 3, 1923
- Drenched by the heavy rain that fell yesterday, the fires that have been raging throughout northern Minnesota were extinguished in several areas. The rain brought relief to the hard-pressed firefighters, who for days have desperately battled the stubborn blazes.
- A huge viaduct that extends from the McDougall Terminal to Superior Street at Ninth Avenue West is under construction. Work on the immense structure has been in progress for about 30 days and is expected to be completed within 10 days. | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/bygones-in-1983-duluth-councilors-debated-willie-nelson-concert-in-wade-stadium | 2023-06-03T13:08:04 | 1 | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/bygones-in-1983-duluth-councilors-debated-willie-nelson-concert-in-wade-stadium |
ISLAND LAKE — Is it a floating truck? A family boat with headlights and an eye-wateringly loud horn?
In a garage about 30 minutes north of Duluth sits “Petertoon.” Roughly equal parts pontoon boat and gleaming semitruck, it’s the creation of Jeff Foster Trucking, a Duluth-based shipping, warehouse and manufacturing firm.
“It’s somewhat of an identity thing,” Jeff Foster, the company’s CEO and namesake, said of Petertoon. “My son and I and our family and the people that built it. We’re all around trucks all the time. Trucks are what we know. ... I’m the truck guy, so I guess it makes sense that the truck guy has a truck pontoon.”
Petertoon’s cab and hood come from a pair of 1988 Peterbilt Model 378s, and the pontoon below it is a 28-foot “tritoon,” which has a third pontoon segment running underneath.
It's no longer roadworthy, but the truck still has many of the features of a real-deal semi. The cab’s headlights and running lights all work. A compressor in the back powers the horn and cushions two air ride seats in the cab. A marine radio has replaced the CB.
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It’s a pontoon boat. Nobody goes fast on a pontoon boat. Normally.
Noticeably absent, though, are the pedals, the shifter and the truck’s engine. Petertoon’s grille swings upward to let passengers disembark through the mostly empty engine compartment if the leap from the pontoon deck or truck doors is too tricky.
Behind the cab are the pontoon’s seats. Behind them is the boat’s original motor, ready to be replaced by a more powerful but quieter one this summer. The Foster family plans to add striping along the length of the truck, according to Brian Foster, Jeff Foster’s son and the company’s chief operating officer.
Brian said his favorite parts of Petertoon are the “chicken lights” that extend toward the back of the boat, as well as the cab’s chrome visor and chrome retro headlights. “We like shiny,” he said.
Petertoon’s origins lie in a video of a similar truck/boat hybrid that was passed around the company, Brian said, and it evolved into a team-building exercise in the firm’s bodyshop.
“We thought it was super cool,” Brian said. “It’s very bizarre to see a vehicle out on the water. From a distance, it really throws you off.”
The company had a disused 28-foot pontoon on its grounds, and staff there attached the cab and hood of two separate Peterbilt trucks atop the boat’s frame. They finished building Petertoon in 2017. Some, but not all, of the 10-15 people who had a hand in Petertoon’s creation have had a chance to take it for a spin themselves, according to Jeff Foster.
As a boat, Petertoon handles more or less like a run-of-the-mill pontoon. Its turns are wider and the truck cab sometimes catches the wind. It can reach speeds of about 20 mph on the water.
“But then again, we didn’t build it to go fast, either. It’s a pontoon boat. Nobody goes fast on a pontoon boat,” Jeff said with a chuckle. “Normally.”
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It’s also a photo magnet. The Fosters took Petertoon onto Lake Superior for the Festival of Sail, drawing considerable attention from boaters and festival-goers. It mostly stays on Island Lake, though.
Kids frequently make honk-your-horn arm pumps at Petertoon, but, wary of the noise, the Fosters try not to blare it too much.
“Blowing the air horn is very popular,” Brian Foster said. “It gives me goosebumps.”
With striping and an upgraded motor, Brian said, the family might take it “exploring” and to more events.
“It’ll be in Lake Superior a little more,” he said. | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/northlandia-meet-petertoon-a-duluth-businessmans-floating-photo-magnet | 2023-06-03T13:08:12 | 1 | https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/northlandia-meet-petertoon-a-duluth-businessmans-floating-photo-magnet |
Shasta County seeks to heavily redact records judge ordered released: 'Gone overboard'
Shasta County officials continue to shield from the public key information about an investigation into the sheriff's office under former Sheriff Eric Magrini, even after a judge ordered the county to relinquish the documents.
In the latest court filings, the county seeks to heavily redact portions of a168-page investigative report, which was was written in 2021. Superior Court Judge Stephen Baker twice has ordered officials to hand over the records to the Record Searchlight.
Baker also ordered the county to hand over to the newspaper communications among top county officials regarding Magrini’s resignation as sheriff and his appointment as assistant county executive officer. The newspaper also sought communications regarding the county Board of Supervisors’ appointment of then-Anderson Police Chief Michael Johnson as sheriff.
The newspaper and the county went to trial in January to obtain the documents and Baker issued his ruling on April 10 ordering the county to relinquish the materials. He affirmed that ruling in May after denying the county’s requests for a delay, a new trial or to vacate his initial order.
In response to the judge's most recent order, the county proposed an extensive list of redactions to the report and communications. The list of proposed deletions to the investigative report covers 19 pages. A 95-page list of proposed redactions would include hundreds of separate deletions.
The investigative report was requested in February 2021 by the Sheriff’s Administrative Association, which is composed of captains and lieutenants in the department. The county’s attorneys proposed removing from the report all identifying information about witnesses and the names of people who complained about Magrini.
The newspaper’s attorney, Walt McNeill, filed objections to most of the county’s requests to redact large portions of the report.
“I think their redactions have gone overboard, clearly. Especially in instances where they believe they have the ability to completely withhold documents,” McNeill said.
“To me, it looks like they're trying to achieve with redactions what they couldn't get or didn't get in the trial. And so what difference does it make that they produce documents if they are blacked out, or all of the significant parts are redacted?” McNeill said.
More:Shasta County again ordered to give up sheriff's office report officials claim is secret
The county’s justifications for the redactions included confidentiality of peace officer personnel records, privacy, attorney-client privilege and “unwarranted invasion of privacy.”
McNeill said the county originally made those arguments when it turned down four requests for records under the California Public Records Act. After the newspaper sued the county, Judge Baker said in his ruling that those were not valid reasons to deny releasing the information to the public.
“It’s almost like a replay of the responses to the public records requests,” McNeill said.
On numerous occasions the county claims confidentiality because the documents are communications between county officials and their attorneys. But McNeill said the claim is done to keep information secret.
“This sort of ‘gimmick’ or ‘gaming’ of attorney-related confidentiality will not succeed in supporting redactions,” McNeill wrote in his objections to the county’s proposed redactions.
McNeill said the paper would agree to redactions that reveal information such as street addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, private financial information or Social Security numbers.
More:Shasta County again ordered to give up sheriff's office report officials claim is secret
Shortly before the county hired the law firm Ellis & Makus in March 2021 to conduct the investigation, members of the administrative association and the Deputy Sheriff’s Association had approved votes of no-confidence in Magrini, citing poor communication and leadership.
By June 2021, less than two years after he was appointed by the Board of Supervisors, Magrini resigned as sheriff. A little more than a month later, the board appointed Michael Johnson as the new sheriff, with little public input and without publicly seeking applicants for the post.
McNeill said it will ultimately be up to Baker to decide what is redacted from the documents. The county has not indicated whether it intends to appeal the judge’s ruling.
More:Shasta sheriff's office accused of criminal activity in lawsuit by ex-sheriff's captain
Reporter Damon Arthur welcomes story tips at 530-338-8834, by email at damon.arthur@redding.com and on Twitter at @damonarthur_RS. Help local journalism thrive by subscribing today! | https://www.redding.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/shasta-county-seeks-to-heavily-redact-records-judge-ordered-released/70283737007/ | 2023-06-03T13:12:15 | 1 | https://www.redding.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/shasta-county-seeks-to-heavily-redact-records-judge-ordered-released/70283737007/ |
Brace yourself, Philly! Moms for Liberty will target the Free Library of Philadelphia this month
The conservative group Moms for Liberty will have its annual “Joyful Warriors Summit” from June 29 to July 3 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.
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June 1st, 2023Breaking the poverty mindset
May 31st, 2023A Roots Picnic Preview
May 31st, 2023Growing 52nd Street
May 31st, 2023New affordable housing
May 30th, 2023SEPTA CEO 4 more years
May 26th, 2023The right-wing activist group Moms for Liberty (M4L) will hold its second annual summit, “Joyful Warriors Summit,” planned for June 29 through July 2 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.
M4L has a significant presence in Pennsylvania, with 11,450 members spread across 27 chapters, as reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer. Among the speakers will be Florida Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis, Governor of South Carolina and presidential candidate Nikki Haley, Chris Elston, and right-wing show host Dennis Prayer, “who has purported anti-gay AIDS stigma,” according to Philadelphia Gay News.
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The summit will train candidates “to ease and win a successful campaign for your local school board.”
M4L plans to target at least three branches of the Free Library: Philadelphia City Institute (on Rittenhouse Square), Independence Library (near Washington Square), and two departments of the main library on the Parkway (the Children’s Department and the Field Teen Center), as reported by Philadelphia Gay News. | https://aldianews.com/en/local/philadelphia/moms-liberty-summit | 2023-06-03T13:12:36 | 1 | https://aldianews.com/en/local/philadelphia/moms-liberty-summit |
Visit Philadelphia releases a public service announcement for Pride Month that highlights Drag Queen Story time
The tagline is “In pursuit of a more perfect, kind, and respectful union.”
MORE IN THIS SECTION
$10 million invested in park
June 2nd, 2023Moms for Liberty Summit
June 2nd, 2023More financial tools to PHL
June 1st, 2023Breaking the poverty mindset
May 31st, 2023A Roots Picnic Preview
May 31st, 2023Growing 52nd Street
May 31st, 2023New affordable housing
May 30th, 2023SEPTA CEO 4 more years
May 26th, 2023To mark Pride Month, Visit Philadelphia is releasing a public service announcement (PSA) in partnership with CBS Philadelphia and CBS New York that highlights Drag Queen Storytime.
The PSA comes in the form of a 30-second TV spot that features famed local drag queens Morgan Wells and Brittany Lynn.
In the video the two queens take turns reading “Giraffes Can’t Dance” by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees to a group of children and their parents at Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
This book tells the story of a giraffe named Gerald, “who is made fun of for his dance moves until a friend encourages him to move to his own tune.”
The PSA ends with the message “In pursuit of a more perfect union,” with the words kind and respectful rotating in.
This PSA will make its debut at the Philadelphia Gay News Pride Brunch and Stonewall Awards on Sunday, June 4. It premieres on TV the next day on CBS affiliates in Philadelphia and New York.
The PSA’s total ad value is more than a quarter of a million dollars.
“Aligning with Visit Philadelphia’s organizational values and in support and solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, who are having their rights infringed upon in many places throughout our country, we’re sending a message that our city is an open and inclusive destination,” Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, explained.
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“This work aligns with our long-term strategy to invite LGBTQ+ travelers to Philadelphia, starting with our ground-breaking campaign ‘Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay®’ in 2003,” she continued.
A recent study by Ipsos, a research marketing firm, of LGBTQ travelers to Philadelphia found the 63% of respondents felt that Philadelphia as a LGBTQ-friendly destination.
“It’s our responsibility to ensure that our tourism marketing efforts are a direct reflection of our residents and those we invite to visit. We were inspired to juxtapose Independence Hall, the very birthplace of our nation and where some of the first gay rights protests in the country were held, with this drag queen storytime,” said Neil Frauenglass, Visit Philadelphia’s chief marketing officer.
“By showcasing members of our LGBTQ+ community in this historic place, we’re showcasing the evolution of equity and equality between the 1700s and today,” said Neil Frauenglass, chief marketing officer at Visit Philadelphia,” he added.
Visit Philadelphia has a history of advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. Its previous President and CEO, Jeff Guaracino, was a member of the community and was a driver behind the aforementioned ‘Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay®’ campaign. He also wrote “Gay and Lesbain Tourism: The essential Guide for Marketing.”
Guaracino passed away in December 2021 after a battle with cancer, and was honored with a segment of South 13th Street being renamed Jeff Guaracino Way. This section resides in Philadelphia’s Gayborhood and the renaming ceremony took place on National Coming Out Day, October 11, 2022. | https://aldianews.com/en/local/philadelphia/visit-phila-pride-month-psa | 2023-06-03T13:12:43 | 0 | https://aldianews.com/en/local/philadelphia/visit-phila-pride-month-psa |
Projects will close 2 Lakeland roads for a month. Shorter closures in Davenport, Ft. Meade
Several heavy-construction projects will close portions of four roads in Davenport, Fort Meade and Lakeland starting early next week, according to the Polk County Roads and Drainage Division.
Two of the road closures will be in Lakeland and will last about a month.
On Monday, road demolition and reconstruction related to a new 7-11 gas and convenience store will close a short part of North Chestnut Road just south of Memorial Boulevard in Lakeland. Traffic will be unable to turn from Memorial Boulevard onto North Chestnut Road, and depending on direction of travel, motorists will be briefly detoured onto West Parker Street or North Wabash Avenue. This closure is expected to take about four weeks.
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On Tuesday, a county drainage-improvement project will close a portion of Tillery Road from Clubhouse Road to Valley High Drive, shutting off a common quick access route to and from Clubhouse Road for a large portion of neighborhoods to the south. Traffic will detour along Peterson and Harrels Nursry Road. Construction, which involves deep excavations to install pipes and other structures, is expected to take about a month.
Davenport and Fort Meade
A daylong road resurfacing project needed to finish an underground sewer installation will close Jacks Road in Davenport from Ambersweet Way to Wellesley Drive near the Barry Town Center on Monday. Traffic will be diverted onto Charo Parkway or Barry Boulevard. Jacks Road is scheduled to reopen Monday evening.
Also starting Monday, a county project to repair three culvert pipes requires a five-day closure of Mount Pisgah Road north of Roberts Road in unincorporated Fort Meade near Mosaic’s South Fort Meade Phosphate Mine. Because of the rural nature of the roads, the detour could be lengthy for some commuters. Traffic will be detoured along U.S. 17 or U.S 98. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/projects-set-to-close-2-lakeland-roads-1-each-in-davenport-ft-meade/70281075007/ | 2023-06-03T13:18:52 | 0 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/projects-set-to-close-2-lakeland-roads-1-each-in-davenport-ft-meade/70281075007/ |
A local church hosts a fish fry in the NRVDuke Carter, Anchor/ReporterPublished: June 3, 2023, 9:16 AMTags: foodCopyright 2023 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/a-local-church-hosts-a-fish-fry-in-the-nrv/ | 2023-06-03T13:25:18 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/a-local-church-hosts-a-fish-fry-in-the-nrv/ |
Habitat for Humanity talks about latest build in RoanokeDuke Carter, Anchor/ReporterPublished: June 3, 2023, 9:17 AMTags: Habitat For HummanityCopyright 2023 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/habitat-for-humanity-build/ | 2023-06-03T13:25:24 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/habitat-for-humanity-build/ |
DUBLIN, Va. – Pulaski summer camp kids will have another place to enjoy other activities after a major pool house burned.
Leaders say they will work Claytor Lake State Park to make sure kids have water recreational activities.
They say about 160 kids used the pool house last year and are finalizing plans to two other organizations that will host Aqua Zumba and swim lessons.
Leaders say they are appreciative so many organizations in the New River Valley has been willing to help.
“I think it speaks a lot to the folks in Pulaski county and the new river valley, we’ve had so many people reach out to Anthony and myself offering their pool facilities all the way past Wytheville to Roanoke,” Shay Dunnigan with Pulaski County Parks and Recreation said.
Leaders say the building is considered a total loss, but some items survived the fire, like a photo Evelyn Alexander, the lady who donated the land, in order to build the pool.
“It still smells of smoke but this is the picture that made it through it’s a pic of Evelyn Alexander that we proudly displayed in the foyer area of the pool, this was piece that was special to a lot of us there,” Anthoney Akers, the Assistant County Administrator said.
Leaders say the pool house will remain untouched until the insurance company comes in and assess the damages. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/pulaski-parks-and-rec-find-plan-to-host-summer-activities-after-pool-burns/ | 2023-06-03T13:25:27 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/pulaski-parks-and-rec-find-plan-to-host-summer-activities-after-pool-burns/ |
ROANOKE, Va. – Police are investigating a car crash in Roanoke at Jefferson and Campbell.
Information is limited at this time, but multiple vehicles were damaged.
Once we learn more information, we’ll keep you updated.
ROANOKE, Va. – Police are investigating a car crash in Roanoke at Jefferson and Campbell.
Information is limited at this time, but multiple vehicles were damaged.
Once we learn more information, we’ll keep you updated.
Copyright 2023 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/roanoke-police-investigating-car-accident-downtown/ | 2023-06-03T13:25:27 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/roanoke-police-investigating-car-accident-downtown/ |
How Chinese heirloom seeds can lead to climate-adapted food for future gardeners
TUCSON — Hundreds of heirloom seed packets moved from one hand to another under the shade of mesquite trees on Saturday morning at Mission Garden, a 4-acre living agricultural museum at the feet of Sentinel Peak. Gardeners, both experienced and novices sifted through baskets and boxes of seed packages to take home and grow.
The celebrities of the event were Chinese heirloom seeds collected in Mission Garden's own plots, with a history of more than 150 years of cultivation in Tucson.
The garden, run by the nonprofit Friends of Tucson's Birthplace, started its Chinese garden in 2017 with the help of community members and the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center. The group contacted community members who tend small gardens or keep seeds passed down from their grandparents, who sowed long beans, Chinese veggie melon, eggplant, napa broom cabbage, Daikon radish, angled luffa and more.
They rescued and reproduced about 40 varieties and expect the seeds to now make their way back to the community.
"We need to get them out there. That is how you preserve them," said Dena Cowan, curator of collections at Mission Garden. Cowan said these unique vegetable varieties are already adapted to the region, and the only way to make sure they don't disappear is if more people grow them, and produce more seeds.
The seeds have been passed down from one generation to the next within families or communities. Mission Garden had already shared some of its heirloom seeds with school gardens and volunteers, but this is the first time the group undertook a large public seed swap and giveaway, Cowan said.
In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the garden partnered with Pima County Seed Library and Biblio Lotus to offer a seed swap and giveaway to the public, and share stories of Tucson's Chinese gardening history and traditions. They also offered a wider variety of seeds, not necessarily from Asian vegetables and greens varieties.
At the event, Mission Garden received seed exchanges from some attendees and made a seed donation of 21 varieties of vegetables and grains to the Pima County Seed Library. The seeds will go into the library catalog and eventually become available to all library users, said Jeff McWhorter, co-chair of the Pima County Seed Library.
First gardens grew near the Santa Cruz River
The first Chinese heirloom seeds were brought to Tucson by wage workers' families who came around the late 1870s to work in the Arizona territory mines and the Southern Pacific Railroad. Many became merchants and farmers.
"During that period vegetables weren't really selling that well, as nobody was really producing it on a regular basis. The Chinese started doing it, and selling it by wagon," said Fe Tom, a first-generation Chinese-American, Tucson-based architect, and longtime Mission Garden board member.
The first Chinese gardens in Tucson were built about a half mile from Mission Garden, on leased land next to the then-flowing Santa Cruz River, Fe Tom said.
Chinese grocery stores proliferated through the 1920s to the 1960s. Families grew gardens in the back of stores to sell both Chinese vegetables and greens, and other produce for Mexican and Anglo residents.
Something similar took place in Phoenix. Nancy Tom, a fourth-generation Chinese-American, grew up in a neighborhood with five Chinese grocery stores a couple of blocks from each other. She would walk with her grandmother to the different stores where they would trade seeds and vegetables among each other. Both her grandma and her mother grew gardens from heirloom seeds, on top of their regular job.
"But the kids from these stores grew up and didn't continue gardening. They all went off and became doctors and engineers, or else," Fe Tom said. "Around the 60s that was done."
Mission Garden wanted to grow a Chinese garden. The site has a dozen plots with varieties of vegetables, fruits and grains that form a timeline of Tucson's 4,000 years of agricultural history, and represent every culture and ethnic group that has contributed to it.
Tom and Nancy, who are also board members of the nonprofit, spearheaded the effort to recover and grow the Chinese heirloom varieties in 2016.
"We approached a lot of the Chinese families that were here in Tucson to find out what kind of seeds they'd had still. Because a lot of the Chinese had stopped gardening down here," Nancy Tom said.
Growing these varieties was of special interest to them so they could educate younger generations from Chinese heritage about food and gardening traditions. The effort, garden clubs and cooking demonstrations have become popular with the general public.
"This is an opportunity to help revitalize interest," Nancy Tom said.
'Food is glue'
Biblio Lotus, the most recent of Pima County Public Library's diverse voices group, was created two years ago after library workers and neighbors expressed the need to create a space to better serve the Asian-American community. The effort was prompted by the discrimination and violence many community members experienced at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We want to share the culture and celebrate the contributions of our community," said Sharon Yang, librarian and chairperson of Biblio Lotus. "We want our children to learn about their ancestry."
The group works to expand the library collection, highlight Asian-American authors, increase services and programs offered to community members of Asian heritage and partner with local organizations.
In collaboration with Mission Garden, the Seed Library and the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, Biblio Lotus produced an eight-page booklet with a package of Chinese heirloom seeds and recipes gathered from Tucson families. Yang included her braised eggplant family recipe in it. The booklet also includes recipes from library patrons with heritage from India and Vietnam.
Biblio Lotus is working to get more partners from the diverse Asian community involved. The Asian population in Pima County numbered 31,367 people in 2020, not counting those who listed themselves as biracial or multiracial.
"Public libraries are for all the community, and there is a diverse population here," Yang said. "Asian communities are part of the community."
Food culture and traditions are also a way to emphasize "commonality," said Li Schmidt, a musician from Jasmine Asian Music Ensemble who performed with her colleague Nan Lan at the Saturday event. She recalled a Thanksgiving dinner where they shared food from 12 different countries.
"I feel food is glue," she said. "The cultural background is the richness of humans. It teaches us to be appreciative of others."
Sharing and sowing seeds is a matter of 'survival'
Mission Garden donated not only Chinese heirloom seeds to the public library but also climate-adapted local varieties the group has been tending for years, like Tarahumara garbanzos, O’odham pink beans, Magdalena cilantro, low water arugula, blue corn and others.
The donation adds to a catalog of over 200 varieties of open-pollinated and heirloom seeds from the Pima County Seed Library, which was created about 11 years ago. There are 19 library locations in the county operating the program and allowing library users to check-out seeds.
Although there is no requirement to make a seed-return after users sow, grow and harvest, about 30% do. The program has become incredibly popular: From January to April, over 28,000 seed packages were checked out from public libraries, said McWhorter.
The library also created larger gardens in nine library locations to start sowing and producing seeds for the catalog.
"The seeds are living things, they need to be planted, grown and re-harvested. They are not doing anyone any good by just sitting in the shelves," McWhorter said.
Kelly Wilson, a Pima County librarian and one of the founders of the program, said the importance of preserving heritage foods and seeds goes beyond culture. It is about ensuring we have foods that will grow well in a changing climate.
"I think we are resting on the laurels of people and cultures that came before us and took the time and the effort to select and grow, and make them acclimated to this environment," Wilson said, adding that what worked for past generations won't work in the future when the climate changes drastically.
"The environment is changing, and it's actually on us now to continue growing those seeds to continue that success. It weighs heavily on us now."
In her view, seed production from big agricultural companies focuses narrowly on what works to produce a lot of food today, but narrows the "genetic tableau that we have created for the last millennia," and won't adapt as well as heirlooms to the upcoming challenges.
"For me, the sharing of seeds, the growing of seeds, the experimenting of it all is so critical to human survival," Wilson said.
Clara Migoya covers environment issues for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Send tips or questions to clara.migoya@arizonarepublic.com.
Environmental coverage on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Follow The Republic environmental reporting team at environment.azcentral.com and @azcenvironment on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can support environmental journalism in Arizona by subscribing to azcentral today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2023/06/03/tucson-seed-swap-helps-preserve-chinese-foods-traditions/70270315007/ | 2023-06-03T13:34:13 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2023/06/03/tucson-seed-swap-helps-preserve-chinese-foods-traditions/70270315007/ |
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Pebble Hill Plantation in Thomas County is offering a series of special guided tours of the main house, Elisabeth Ireland Poe Gallery, the Kennel Cottage, and also of the historic grounds and outbuildings.
Pebble Hill Plantation in Thomas County is offering a series of special guided tours of the main house, Elisabeth Ireland Poe Gallery, the Kennel Cottage, and also of the historic grounds and outbuildings.
Special Photo: Pebble Hill Plantation
The famous log cabin school at Pebble Hill Plantation is one of the stops on the tour of the plantation's grounds.
THOMASVILLE -- Pebble Hill Plantation is offering a series of special guided tours of the main house, Elisabeth Ireland Poe Gallery, the Kennel Cottage, and also of the historic grounds and outbuildings. These tours will allow guests to see Pebble Hill as they’ve never seen it before.
Pebble Hill’s museum and gallery curator, Lori Curtis, will lead small group tours of the Main House, Elisabeth Ireland Poe Gallery, and the recently-opened Kennel Cottage. She will share her insights and expertise on various aspects of the Main House and its collections, including the 33 first edition John James Audubon prints. The antique furnishings in the house include pieces from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/special-tours-of-pebble-hill-plantation-planned/article_f02ba37c-020e-11ee-9876-5b2c079598d6.html | 2023-06-03T13:47:52 | 0 | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/special-tours-of-pebble-hill-plantation-planned/article_f02ba37c-020e-11ee-9876-5b2c079598d6.html |
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People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/start-a-home-garden-with-these-easy-to-grow-plants/article_253b7496-0211-11ee-8022-37ab3f52decd.html | 2023-06-03T13:47:52 | 1 | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/start-a-home-garden-with-these-easy-to-grow-plants/article_253b7496-0211-11ee-8022-37ab3f52decd.html |
Statesman Journal winners in 2022 NW Excellence in Journalism contest
Statesman Journal staff have been awarded three first-place awards for writing in the large publication category of the Society of Professional Journalists' 2022 NW Excellence in Journalism contest.
Reporters Whitney Woodworth, Dianne Lugo and Virginia Barreda (now a reporter for the Des Moines Register) were awarded first place for writing on poverty and homelessness with "The 'Invisible' Homeless: Women outnumber men in Oregon's Mid-Valley, but services lag." That package of work included a story about homeless youth in Oregon.
News columnist Capi Lynn took first place for writing in business and economics for her investigation "A cancer diagnosis, a betrayal and a mountain of debt for Salem's oldest restaurant." Lynn's story recounts how an offer to help by a prominent business owner instead left Court Street Dairy owner Marlene Blanchard with a mountain of debt.
Food and dining reporter Em Chan won first place for arts and culture writing for her story "Local blacksmithing community forged through word of mouth, comradery." Chan also took the pictures that accompanied her story.
Photographer Abigail Dollins' portfolio of work took second place for photo and design in the large publication category. Dollins' entry included images in the invisible homeless stories, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival and family life on a blueberry farm. Her editor, Register Guard photographer and multimedia director Chris Pietsch, took first place in that category for his portfolio of work.
A full list of winners in the contest that covers Alaska, Washington, Montana, Idaho and Oregon can be found at spjoregon.com/2022-nw-excellence-in-journalism-winners.
Cherrill Crosby is the executive editor of the Statesman Journal. You may reach her at crosbyc@gannett.com | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/statesman-journal-winners-in-2022-nw-excellence-in-journalism-contest/70283526007/ | 2023-06-03T14:09:09 | 0 | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/statesman-journal-winners-in-2022-nw-excellence-in-journalism-contest/70283526007/ |
Gov. Eric Holcomb is heading overseas Sunday on his 15th international trade mission, seeking to establish and renew relationships between Indiana and government and business leaders in Portugal and France.
The Republican governor, Indiana Commerce Secretary Brad Chambers and first lady Janet Holcomb are due to spend a week in Europe and return to the Hoosier State after next weekend's 24 Hours of Le Mans auto race.
The trio's first stop will be in Lisbon, where Holcomb and Chambers are scheduled to meet with U.S. and Portuguese government officials to discuss opportunities for growing economic, energy and innovation ties.
They're also set to meet with Portuguese and global business leaders in the energy and future-of-mobility sectors, including Energias de Portugal (EDP), a Lisbon-based utility company focused on achieving 100% green energy by 2030 that operates several wind farms near Northwest Indiana.
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Those discussions will continue when Indiana co-hosts a business energy roundtable with the American Chamber of Commerce in Portugal to showcase Indiana’s public-sector energy initiatives and private-sector innovations to global industry leaders.
In addition, the delegation will travel to the NATO base in Oerias, where Holcomb was stationed during his service in the U.S. Navy.
Holcomb and Chambers are set to participate in a second business roundtable Wednesday, in conjunction with the U.S. Embassy in Paris, to highlight Indiana’s economic momentum; its growing sectors of advanced manufacturing, life sciences, semiconductors, electric vehicles and industry 4.0; and opportunities for investment and partnerships.
On Friday, the delegation will travel to France's Pays de la Loire region, which is home to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, to meet with local government and business leaders and continue exploring mutually beneficial partnership opportunities, including shared hydrogen and innovation initiatives.
In Pays de la Loire, the delegation will join the global motorsports and mobility sectors at Le Mans, which will take place on the 100th anniversary of the first 24-hour race. Holcomb is set to participate in the opening ceremony and festivities, representing Indiana and its robust motorsports industry.
"Indiana's economic momentum continues to build, and I couldn’t be more energized to share that message with our friends, partners and new business prospects in Europe," Holcomb said.
"France and Portugal share similar visions for building global economies of the future, and we see many opportunities for innovation and partnerships across high-tech industries like energy and motorsports that will create new opportunities for Indiana and for Hoosiers."
Chambers noted that 1,075 foreign-owned companies are enriching Hoosier communities, contributing to innovations and quality career opportunities, and more always are welcome.
"The continued growth of our economy and future-focused sectors relies on partners here and around the world, and I look forward to fostering these relationships and building new collaborations in France and Portugal," he said.
The cost of the trip is being paid by private donations to the Indiana Economic Development Foundation, according to the governor's office. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/business/gov-eric-holcomb-leading-indiana-trade-mission-to-portugal-france/article_9363174c-00bf-11ee-bfd5-ff51a0ac9f0c.html | 2023-06-03T14:14:07 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/business/gov-eric-holcomb-leading-indiana-trade-mission-to-portugal-france/article_9363174c-00bf-11ee-bfd5-ff51a0ac9f0c.html |
Sales of the locally made Ford Explorer SUV fell by 25.8% in May.
The Calumet Region-made Explorer slumped significantly during the pandemic due largely to semiconductor shortages that hampered production and left auto dealership lots half-full. Sales have since been generally improving as the supply chains have been patched up until the plunge in May.
Other Ford vehicles fared better last month. In May, overall Ford and Lincoln sales rose by 10.7% to 170,933, up from 154,461 in May of 2022.
In May, the Dearborn, Michigan-based automaker saw a 13% drop in electric vehicle sales, a 20.5% jump in hybrid sales and an 11.1% boost in vehicles with gas-powered internal combustion engines.
Ford has been phasing out lower-margin cars, shifting its strategy to focus on pricier and higher-margin pickup trucks and SUVs that fatten its profit margin. It has been investing heavily in electric vehicles and is now projecting it will become the second-largest electric vehicle manufacturer in the United States after only Tesla.
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In May, Ford sold 14,531 units of the Explorer, which is made at the Chicago Assembly Plant on the far South Side near the state line, down from 19,594 units during the same period in 2022. So far this year, Ford has sold 90,919 Explorers, which is up 9.4% as compared to 83,131 units in the first five months of last year. After the semiconductor shortages, the related plant shutdowns and running of only two shifts, Explorer sales fell to 207,673 in 2022, down from 219,871 in 2021.
In 2019, Ford also started making the Lincoln Aviator at the Chicago Assembly Plant after phasing out the Lincoln MKS and Ford Taurus. Sales of the Aviator fell 59.9% to 835 units in the first quarter, down from 2,083 units during the same month the previous year. So far this year, Ford has sold 7,972 Aviators, down 15.7% from 9,452 units during the first five months of 2022.
Last year, Ford sold a total of 1.86 million vehicles, down 2.2% from 1.9 million the previous year.
NWI Business Ins and Outs: Pierogi stand, Brown Skin Coffee and Alpha Family Resale opening; Ixxa and Dan's Pierogies updating
Open
Open
Closed
Renovated
New mural
Opening
Opening
Coming soon
Coming soon
Expanded
Expanded
219 News Now 5/19/23
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/calumet-region-made-explorer-sales-fall-25-8/article_398680c8-017e-11ee-b2f9-8f2d9008c0ab.html | 2023-06-03T14:14:13 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/calumet-region-made-explorer-sales-fall-25-8/article_398680c8-017e-11ee-b2f9-8f2d9008c0ab.html |
LAPORTE — Mayor Tom Dermody says enough signatures have been obtained for the city to move forward in the process of annexing the 39 North Conservancy District.
But the district board seems to be telling the mayor not so fast, if victory is what he’s trying to declare.
Dermody made the announcement about having the necessary signatures the day after a city imposed May 31 deadline expired for property owners in the district to sign a petition in favor of annexation.
“We are excited to partner with the conservancy board and its residents to improve the infrastructure in this area and position the 39 North community for future growth,” he said.
In response, the board, during its regularly scheduled meeting, Friday voted not to further discuss permission to annex unless it’s provided a fiscal plan on how the city will deliver services to district residents for three-years after they’re annexed.
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“The fiscal plan is required under statute so that both this board and the City Council knows what’s the cost of taxpayers,” he said.
The city has offered $2 million to purchase the water and sewer lines the district paid $5.2 million to have installed over 20 years ago in exchange for the board approving a consent agreement for the city to annex.
The infrastructure worked to bring more industrial and residential growth to the district, whose boundaries extend along Ind. 39 from the city limits to the Indiana Toll Road.
However, the district can no longer grow unless the water lines are replaced with larger ones to meet demand from more customers.
The city has presented a plan to finance what would be an over $10 million cost for adding water capacity to the system.
Currently, the district lacks the funding to pay for such improvements.
To return to the bargaining table, the board also wants to know if proceeds from a sale of the infrastructure can be given to district property owners in the form of credits on their water and sewer bills as compensation for their investment.
District Attorney Shaw Friedman said there is some reason to believe the funds might have to go to county government, judging from a previous judicial decision related to annexation.
“This board and the City Council needs to know where’s that money going. Can it go out and be paid out as discounts to the freeholders of this district, as I think folks would like to see, or can it not?” he said.
Friedman also said he’s not been presented with any of the signatures Dermody claims to have obtained.
The signatures on a petition must be filed in court by Oct. 1.
Once filed, Friedman said they can be challenged to make sure they meet the requirements during a verification process.
Under state law, municipalities have to acquire support from either a majority of property owners or property owners representing 60% of the assessed valuation to annex targeted areas.
The effort in LaPorte has turned bitter recently with people opposed to annexation criticizing Dermody for taking a heavy handed approach. He’s been called a “bully” and portrayed as one in drawings posted on social media.
Dermody said it’s unfortunate some people took things personally, since his push for annexation began three years ago.
He said the effort was strictly about doing what’s right for both sides.
Dermody said district residents would have better services without an increase in property taxes while the city would expand to an area ripe for more growth once upgrades are made to the water system.
“What’s best for these residents and business owners has always been at the heart of this discussion and we are happy to have their support to move forward,” he said.
Friedman said litigation is an option for the district if Dermody were to move forward in the annexation process without a consent agreement. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/mayor-feels-pushback-in-laporte-annexation-effort/article_eea9e712-018b-11ee-a8aa-6b2104633e00.html | 2023-06-03T14:14:19 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/mayor-feels-pushback-in-laporte-annexation-effort/article_eea9e712-018b-11ee-a8aa-6b2104633e00.html |
A Silver Alert has been issued for a 13-year-old girl missing from South Bend since Friday morning.
Devyne Lewis is 5 feet 1 inches tall, weighs 120 pounds, has black hair and brown eyes. She was wearing a dark blue polo shirt, tan shorts and white tennis shoes.
Police believe she is in extreme danger and may need medical help.
Anyone with information is asked to call 574-235-9201 or 911. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/indiana/silver-alert-issued-for-south-bend-teen/article_4ffee08c-0211-11ee-8860-8768caf575fd.html | 2023-06-03T14:17:53 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/indiana/silver-alert-issued-for-south-bend-teen/article_4ffee08c-0211-11ee-8860-8768caf575fd.html |
A flick titled "Tsiiyééł" that was made by a group of student filmmakers in the Kinlani Film Project has found success at several festivals.
Students in the Flagstaff Bordertown Dormitory (also known as Kinlani dorm) can apply to be part of a yearly afterschool internship program that teaches the basics of filmmaking and helps them tell their own stories.
As part of the Kinlani Film Project, the high-schoolers learn about cinematography, storyboarding and aspects of several roles in filmmaking -- which they then use to make one short film each semester: a fiction story in the fall and a documentary in the spring.
With the only prompt being to “tell your story,” and a few restrictions in scope (for example, only one or two actors and under five minutes long), the students come up with an idea for their movie, then write it, find actors and assume various roles in production to create a complete production.
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Eight internships are available each year, with students who complete the program receiving a stipend.
The Kinlani Film Project was started in the 2017-2018 school year by local filmmaker Oakley Anderson-Moore.
She now co-leads the program with Deidra Peaches, another local filmmaker who she brought in to help with the production of "Tsiiyééł" last year. The program also partners with the University of Arizona film department, with recent graduate Kristian Jackson helping students edit their film.
“The creativity and voices shared by each student allow a glimpse of who they are and their unique upbringing,” Peaches said. “As a professional filmmaker, it is humbling to see each student striving to work together and compromising on creating a film; I am happy to be a part of it."
“I came into this wanting to create a real space for young Indigenous people to learn the realities of what it means to be creative and what it takes to make a film,” Anderson-Moore added. “ ... These are pretty incredible young people who are passionate about learning new things. So for me, it was a cool opportunity to work with this group.”
One film made by students in the 2021-2022 school year has recently been shown at 10 film festivals, including the Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival, the Navajo Film Festival and ImagiNative.
Called "Tsiiyééł," the Navajo term for a traditional hair bun, the film is a three-minute psychological thriller focusing on a young girl who encounters her double after going for a run.
The film’s directors are Shanique Yazzie, Hailee Bekis and Austin Jimmy.
Robyn Claw and Devin Goodman were the cinematographers, with LaDonna Jacket providing additional cinematography alongside Jimmy.
Bekis played both the main character (also named Hailee) and her doppelganger. Her sister and friends were played by Nez, Yazzie and LeAndre Frank.
Other students working on the story and various roles in production were Orion Lucero, Zoey Nez, Roshelle Hawee and Faith Begay (Nez and Begay were both Kinlani Project interns alongside the directors and cinematographers). LaDurra Jimmy, Braydyn Calamity and Shaydon Begay contributed to the film’s music, while Mikayla Johnson was among those helping with translation.
At the start of the project, the group didn’t have much experience in filmmaking and they didn’t know each other very well.
“We jumped into it, we learned all those different things and they just filmed together,” Anderson-Moore said. “This was the first thing they had ever really done.”
She said the students had started with the idea to make a thriller, as well as a story that was "authentic to their experience."
“They have their own Native identity, they have their own unique identity as young people and they’re also living in this larger community of Flagstaff,” she said. “The film is really about what it’s like to try and balance your identity as an Indigenous young person. ... It’s finding a lot of these more nuanced, complicated aspects of cultural identity in a short, symbolic format.”
They then worked in a writer's room to turn those ideas into a story.
Once they had their idea, script and shot list, the team began filming, with the program leaders acting as producers and treating the project like a professional film set.
Because they filmed last winter, the filmmakers had to shift their plans in response to COVID-19 spikes from the omicron variant. At one point, they had to switch to outdoors-only filming for safety, meaning that in an afternoon, an indoor bathroom scene became a handheld mirror on a park bench in the snow.
Anderson-Moore said she hoped filmmakers left the program with the knowledge that “their stories are important.”
“Their stories deserve to be seen and heard just as much as any other story. We’re starting to see a bit of evolution in whose stories are told onscreen and I hope that this younger generation is going to be part of that movement,” she said.
She added: “When we started making the film, one thing I’d keep hearing the young filmmakers say is that I never saw a film about someone like me or my story. ... So they made "Tsiiyééł," and then they got to see it at the Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival, they got to play it all these different film festivals and screen it at different venues. That’s the most important thing: for them to not only learn how to tell these stories and be creative and harness their unique voices as artists, but also to see just how important their stories are and how much they deserve to be seen and heard.”
The group behind "Tsiiyééł" has already started on their next film, called "Cheii" -- which translates to grandfather -- with some rotations in the team after a few of the filmmakers graduated from high school.
“They haven’t slowed down,” Anderson-Moore.
More information about the Kinlani Film Project can be found at oakleyandersonmoore.com/kinlani-film-project. Information about Kinlani dorm is available at kinlanidorm.org. | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/education/flagstaff-students-create-movie-as-part-of-kinlani-film-project/article_af66499a-00d4-11ee-a37e-f73b360bca2a.html | 2023-06-03T14:19:58 | 1 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/education/flagstaff-students-create-movie-as-part-of-kinlani-film-project/article_af66499a-00d4-11ee-a37e-f73b360bca2a.html |
Firefighters were continuing their work Friday on the Volunteer Fire, which is being managed for forest health in the Coconino National Forest (CNF).
Caused by a lightning strike on the burn scar from the Rafael Fire, the 23-acre Volunteer Fire had started on May 23. Because of the fire’s location and current conditions, it is being managed in the same way as a prescribed burn.
CNF is using an indirect strategy, creating a control line from the fire’s starting location and using ignitions to box in the space -- which Operations Section Chief Aaron Graeser said was likely to be burned by the existing fire, just at a much slower rate.
On Friday, crews were operating around that perimeter to “put a catcher’s mitt on this front of the fire,” Graeser said.
“We have the ability to use natural ignitions for all kinds of different reasons,” he said. “Sometimes it makes sense to put them out, sometimes it makes sense to run a little and then put them out, sometimes it makes sense to do what we’re doing here.”
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Those decisions are made after a series of assessments and deliberations, based on the conditions surrounding each fire.
Graeser and agency administrator Nick Mustoe both said this year’s conditions are “very different” from those during last year’s Tunnel and Pipeline fires, which both burned thousands of acres close to Flagstaff.
“Conditions are just different this year,” Graeser said. “It’s wetter, it’s cooler.”
Nearly 100 people are currently working on the Volunteer Fire, which is managed by a Type 3 Incident Management Team. CNF is also managing two prescribed burns this week: the 1,089-acre Horseshoe Burn and the 4,000-acre Sawmill Burn.
It’s unusual for both kinds of fire management to be taking place at the same time, Mustoe said, adding that this is possible because of this year’s unusual conditions.
“It’s a strange year that we’re able to do a prescribed fire and respond to wildfires in the same week,” he said, “but really the relative humidities, the low-temp highs and the low winds have all created that opportunity, and we’re taking advantage of it this year.”
Managing the fire rather than suppressing it reduces fuels to protect nearby areas such as Camp Navajo and restore ecosystems, Mustoe said.
He said the Volunteer Fire helps tie together previous fire scars -- 2021’s Rafael as well as the Whiskey and Saber fires from 2019 -- and reduce the fire risk in Sycamore Canyon, an area that had been identified as a potential risk “for some time.”
Between this fire, the previous scars and mechanical treatments to the south and southwest, Mustoe said that risk has been reduced.
“The best tool that we can have and the most cost-efficient tool that we can have is fire, so we're tying that all together in Sycamore Canyon really for some years to come,” he said. “It’s always hard to say exactly how many, but moving forward there aren't nearly the fuel conditions that could generate large fires that could put the community or the adjacent homes here at risk.”
CNF is considering this the “first entry” in running fire through the area, which hasn’t burned for some time, with the opportunity for later entries at some point in the future -- for example, if there were another lightning strike under the right conditions a few years from now.
Though the focus is primarily on protection and habitat restoration, Graeser said there are benefits to another fire on the Rafael burn scar. The natural fire cycle for a ponderosa pine forest is between seven to 10 years, he said, and though it’s only been two since the Rafael Fire, “it’s still worth getting another treatment in there to keep that habitat.”
In addition to reducing the risk of wildfire in the nearby human population, the burn is being managed to protect the habitat of the Mexican spotted owl, a threatened species that has been known to live in the Mooney Mountain area.
“Mexican spotted owls prefer higher density forests,” Mustoe said. “They need the cover and they need these habitat components, but they're also at risk if a fire came in on the wrong day and destroyed that habitat. So not only are we getting community benefits out of this, we're getting wildlife benefits.”
To reduce the amount of fuels in the area in case of a future, larger fire while preserving the owl’s preferred habitat, crews are starting at the top of Mooney Mountain and working their way down in strips that are then brought together to limit the effects on the landscape.
Smoke from the fires has been visible in the area, with the Volunteer Fire creating a cloud that's noticeable from Interstate 40. The current fires differ from last year’s in that crews have more control over the smoke impacts, Mustoe said, though he noted that smoke is inevitable.
“The fire's been on this landscape for as long as there's been vegetation on this landscape," he said. “The choice that we have is when, where and how much."
The plan is continue this kind of proactive work on the Volunteer Fire for three to five more days, defining the perimeter, before the firefighters step back to monitor as the fire burns itself out. That monitoring will continue for several weeks to make sure that the fire stays within the perimeter.
Graeser emphasized that those working on the Volunteer Fire were “here to serve our community.”
“We are trained to respond to any incident, whether it’s a full suppression fire like last year, whether it’s a modified suppression fire like this one or whether it’s a prescribed fire,” he said. “We both thank and count on the community’s support. ... Almost everyone out here lives in this community. It is our backyard and we’re heavily invested in making sure that this community continues to be a great place to live.” | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/firefighters-continue-managing-the-volunteer-fire/article_d50f95a0-01a8-11ee-a094-d3567af96ca6.html | 2023-06-03T14:20:05 | 0 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/firefighters-continue-managing-the-volunteer-fire/article_d50f95a0-01a8-11ee-a094-d3567af96ca6.html |
This past winter I penned an article for Gardening Etcetera titled “Winter Weeds,” and previously, I had written on biennial weeds. Today, I am writing about summer weeds — those that germinate during the spring or summer and mature by autumn.
We’ll begin with one found on our property, horseweed (Conyza canadensis), which is currently in its immature rosette stage, with clusters of leaves in a circular pattern hugging the ground. This will become the base of the mature plant. Horseweed’s rosette is bright green with narrow leaves. As the days become warmer, horseweed will bolt, sending up a leafy stem as high as six feet tall. Numerous short branches will grow from the top and produce small (3-5mm across) daisy-like flowers that manufacture scads of seeds.
I keep a sharp eye out for horseweed rosettes this time of year. Otherwise, the plants quickly become unmanageable, blocking the flow of water in our ditch and robbing the landscaping plants of water. Elsewhere, this weed can be found in disturbed soils like roadsides and vacant lots but also in pastures and fields. Fortunately, its rosettes are easy to remove by clipping the stem barely below the soil surface. Because the weed bears no flowers at this point of its existence, I leave the clipped plants on the ground to decompose, renourishing the soil. I do the same for most annual weeds that are not yet bearing flowers. (Purslane, however, is an exception.)
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Kochia and tumble mustard become pesky tumbleweeds at maturity. Once their stems have matured, they let loose of the ground, tumble for miles on windy days and spread seed everywhere they go.
I have a love/hate relationship with Kochia (Bassia scoparia), an Asian weed infesting a large portion of our backyard during summer. Rather than toiling to remove it all, we mow it. At first, mowed kochia appears lush and green like a lawn, but turns brown in the fall. And since kochia may grow new branches below the mowing level, we mow it several times during the growing season.
One of the best ways to prevent large kochia infestations like ours is to dig up each silvery soft rosette before the plants bolt. Once they have stems, removing them becomes more difficult.
When left to its own devices, Kochia grows six feet tall or higher, forming a huge shrub with blue-green velvety leaves and reddish-green stems. At this stage, it may be toxic to cattle and sheep. Kochia flowers are nearly unnoticeable.
Tumble mustard (Sisumbrium altissimum) debuts as a rosette of leaves divided into 12-inch long broad lobes. To me, it looks like a giant imitation of a dandelion rosette.
When tumble mustard bolts, the single stem shoots upward 2 to 5 feet and makes a profusion of smaller branches at the top bearing small, pale-yellow flowers. A lone plant may manufacture thousands of seeds. Again, avoid large stands of this invasive weed by removing its rosettes before they grow stems.
Originally from Eastern Europe and Western Asia, diffuse knapweed (Centaurea diffusa) is an invasive weed that may behave as a perennial, biennial or summer annual.
Diffuse knapweed's initial growth stage reveals a rosette of six-inch long, deeply-lobed hairy leaves. After bolting as tall as 24 inches, the plant grows numerous branches holding white or pinkish minuscule flowers atop urn-shaped, prickly bracts. (Take care not to confuse diffuse knapweed with hoary tansy aster, a native flowering plant.)
Any effective control involves killing or removing the plant, long taproot and all. The best time for this is when the weed is merely a rosette. For large infestations, chemical products licensed for control of Centaurea diffusa may be effective if strictly adhering to directions. In any case, you must reestablish the previously invaded plot with native plant species or other plants adapted to the environment.
The Coconino Master Gardener Association believes it’s vital for homeowners and landscapers to learn how to identify our most invasive weeds, so I will continue to keep Gardening Etc. readers informed. For images and more information on northern Arizona weeds, go to nazinvasiveplants.org/.
Cindy Murray is a biologist, co-editor of Gardening Etcetera. and a Coconino Master Gardener with Arizona Cooperative Extension.
If you have a gardening question, send a message to CoconinoMasterGardener@gmail.com and a Coconino Master Gardener will answer your question. Or call the Coconino Master Gardener Hotline at 928-773-6112 and leave a message. A Master Gardener will return your call. | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/gardening-etcetera-the-best-ways-to-deal-with-summer-weeds/article_ab6ed13e-0185-11ee-81ab-8395c4dbc8eb.html | 2023-06-03T14:20:11 | 1 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/gardening-etcetera-the-best-ways-to-deal-with-summer-weeds/article_ab6ed13e-0185-11ee-81ab-8395c4dbc8eb.html |
As the June preseason period gets underway, the Flagstaff Eagles are using last winter as motivation.
Senior Connor O’Brien-Piubeni was concise in what he thought about the team's 2022-23 campaign.
“It sucked,” he said. “We don’t want to repeat that.”
The Eagles went 2-16 overall (1-11 Grand Canyon) and ended the year on a 10-game losing streak and a final ranking of No. 37 in the 4A Conference.
However, Flagstaff is set to return a few players with talent who believe they can turn around the program’s fortune.
“We had a lot of good players, I thought, but we just didn’t get to display it last year. Now we have the chance to,” senior Jake Centner said.
Whereas the Eagles had just two players coming into last year with any varsity experience, several of their starters and contributors were young players who got to step into high-level play. While there were bumps, five of Flagstaff’s top-eight scorers are set to return to the roster.
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There’s also a chance in the early portions of the offseason to build some chemistry before players go off into club play, fall sports or other activities until the team reconnects ahead of the winter.
Flagstaff is set to practice regularly in June and will participate in several tournaments and leagues throughout the month.
Flagstaff started the preseason campaign strong with a 39-27 victory over Page at a tournament hosted by the Northern Arizona University men’s basketball team in Flagstaff Friday.
Flagstaff makes a second-half comeback and beats Page 39-27 at the Rolle Activity Center pic.twitter.com/9kY97blcN0
— Eric Newman (@enewmanwrites) June 2, 2023
But while there’s a few returning faces who have played for the Eagles, they need to keep tinkering to ensure a better fate in the future.
“There are a few things that are similar, but we have to change up a lot based on the personnel we have this season. It’s a different type of roster,” Eagles coach Nick Walton said.
Flagstaff is noticeably smaller overall, having graduated its three tallest players from last year’s squad. The result is a new strategy.
“We’re going to try to play a little quicker and push and get the ball inside that way on drives,” Walton said.
“We can switch everything and rely on each other to make defensive plays, because some of us are close to the same size,” Centner added.
One potential move that could prove noteworthy is the addition of junior Colten Anderson. Anderson is in the process of transferring from 2A Northland Prep Academy, where he averaged 11.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.5 steals per game last season and was named to the Central All-Region Second Team as a sophomore. He may have to sit some games in the winter due to transfer rules, but could still make an impact on the team when he suits up.
“He complements us with talking on defense and with his size. He makes us more of a well-rounded team,” Centner said.
After a bit of a debacle last year, Flagstaff has several steps to go in its goal of becoming a postseason-caliber team.
Inevitably, the Eagles will look a bit different after June and a few months of school in the fall. Still, the foundation is there for improvement if the Eagles live up to some potential.
“I would love to make a real run, and hopefully we can win more games,” O’Brien-Piubeni said. “If we come together, I think we can do it." | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/flagstaff-boys-basketball-seeks-improvement-in-june-preseason-period/article_da7e9f88-018d-11ee-b595-bb970ba37b0a.html | 2023-06-03T14:20:17 | 0 | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/flagstaff-boys-basketball-seeks-improvement-in-june-preseason-period/article_da7e9f88-018d-11ee-b595-bb970ba37b0a.html |
TEXAS, USA — A message was posted to Houston attorney Tony Buzbee's Instagram account Friday that said he had been retained to represent Ken Paxton in his impeachment trial. The post went up at around 8:30 p.m., but shortly after we reported that in our 10 p.m. newscast, we noticed the post had been deleted.
In the post, Buzbee told his Instagram followers to "not believe all the foolishness you have read about this case in the media," and he's very confident that Paxton will be exonerated.
We’ve reached out to him for clarification but have not heard back, yet.
DeGuerin and Hardin to present House's case in impeachment trial
This comes after another two high-profile Houston attorneys -- Dick DeGuerin and Rusty Hardin -- said they will present the Texas House's case in the impeachment trial.
The hiring of DeGuerin and Hardin underlines how aggressively a Republican-led investigation is moving to oust the state's top lawyer in the face of backlash from the GOP's hard right.
In an interview, DeGuerin and Hardin said the evidence against Paxton is as “strong as horseradish.”
“I think the facts are much worse than either one of us guessed, that we did not know until last week and started reading,” said Hardin on a new episode of the Y’all-itics podcast released Friday evening.
What we know about Ken Paxton's impeachment trial?
On June 20, a special committee of senators will present the rules and procedures for the trial.
A date for the start of the trial has not been made but it must start no later than August 28.
During the impeachment trial, the 31 senators will serve as the jury. Twelve state representatives will serve as prosecutors.
The defendant, Paxton, is allowed to bring in outside attorneys or the Office of the Attorney General can represent him.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick will serve as the judge in this trial, but he also gets to set the rules.
One important rule will be how much time each side gets to present their case.
There are 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats in the Senate that will determine the fate of Paxton. That includes Paxton's wife.
Experts say it will be interesting to see whether she participates in the trial. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas/tony-buzbee-representing-ken-paxton/285-b776a2c1-9de8-4363-b5b5-178e3da02591 | 2023-06-03T14:22:02 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas/tony-buzbee-representing-ken-paxton/285-b776a2c1-9de8-4363-b5b5-178e3da02591 |
CLINTON — For the first time in over 70 years, the Wilson Chrysler Jeep store in Clinton will be run by a new family.
The Baum family, who own Baum Chevrolet Buick, recently purchased the business from the Wilson family. The new ownership will take effect on June 21. The last day for the business as Wilson Chrysler Jeep will be on June 20.
The store will reopen as Baum Chrysler Jeep on June 26, and will continue to operate at 307 E. Main St.
Auto repairs, factory parts and new and used vehicle sales services will still be offered. The current staff will be maintained.
Wilson Chrysler Jeep started in 1952, and President Steve Wilson joined his father Joe Wilson in 1982, taking over management in 1988.
Scott Baum is president of the Baum Chevrolet Buick. The Baum and Wilson stores have done business for almost 130 years combined.
The new Baum store will be managed by Will Daniel and Logan Woolridge, both of Clinton. Daniels, the sales manager, has worked with Baum for 28 years having served in the detail, parts, sales and service departments and managed the Baum Motor Company in Farmer City from 2007 to 2013. Woolridge has served in the sales department at Baum for five years.
Service Manager Scott Massey and Finance, Insurance and Office Manager Kathy Sullivan will continue their roles with the business.
For more information, call 217-935-3131 or visit baumchryslerjeep.com once the transition is complete.
Photos: Harvest Day at Clinton Elementary School
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs
Steve Wilson and Scott Baum shake hands after reaching a purchase agreement for the Chrysler Jeep store in Clinton. Under new ownership, Wilson Chrysler Jeep will become Baum Chrysler Jeep on June 26. | https://pantagraph.com/business/local/wilson-chrysler-jeep-in-clinton-announces-new-owners/article_cd73579a-0186-11ee-8022-fb7c0aaf4511.html | 2023-06-03T14:25:11 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/business/local/wilson-chrysler-jeep-in-clinton-announces-new-owners/article_cd73579a-0186-11ee-8022-fb7c0aaf4511.html |
Daytona Beach's Main Street and Seabreeze Boulevard could get more security cameras soon
DAYTONA BEACH — Cameras have become part of the landscape across the United States, constantly recording people in airports, stores, schools, streets, and parking lots.
And it appears that they are about to get even more ubiquitous in Daytona Beach.
City officials are discussing adding more than 100 new cameras in five parks, along a few beachside thoroughfares, and in other locations including Halifax Marina, a police substation, and outside the Dickerson Center.
Nothing's been approved yet, but a proposal city staff put together calls for spending more than $3.5 million over the next few years to purchase and install cameras and new lighting to improve public safety.
"We're a big destination. We attract 10 million people per year, and we want to monitor them," said Mayor Derrick Henry.
Police Chief Jakari Young is all for adding more cameras around the city.
"It will absolutely help us deter and solve crime," Young said. "I wish we could have them on every corner."
A doorbell Ring camera provided police with their first video footage last year when they were looking for the person who fatally stabbed a husband and wife bicycling back to their beachside home after a night of Bike Week festivities, Young said. More video recorded from cameras on Seabreeze Boulevard also showed the man police zeroed in on as their suspect.
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The cameras, which police would monitor, could also help officers know where they need to go to disperse a rowdy crowd after bar closing time, or when heavy traffic is clogging roads, said City Manager Deric Feacher.
City staff members will put together a suggested timeline and budget for the cameras and lighting, and then city commissioners will discuss and vote on that proposal at either their June 21 meeting or their July 5 meeting.
Where the cameras could be placed
Close to two-thirds of the 106 new cameras would be placed on the beachside if the city goes with a preliminary plan presented to commissioners at their May 17 meeting.
Locations include Seabreeze Boulevard; Main Street; Colins Park; Lenox Park; under the Seabreeze bridge; and Oleander, Wild Olive, and Grandview avenues adjacent to Seabreeze Boulevard.
Suggested mainland locations include the Dickerson Center, Daisy Stocking Park, the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard, Joe Harris Park, Bethune Skate Park, Halifax Marina, and the police department's substation on Ridgewood Avenue at North Street.
Some of those locations already have cameras and would be getting more. Daytona Beach already has 560 cameras scattered around the city.
Some cameras would have two lenses or four lenses to provide additional angles, and the number of cameras added would vary from location to location. Current suggestions call for Seabreeze Boulevard to get 26 more cameras, Halifax Marina to get 19 and Main Street to get 13.
Other places would get far fewer cameras. Joe Harris Park is targeted to get two more cameras, Lenox Park would get four, and the Ridgewood Avenue police substation would get five.
The cameras would provide police with a real-time look at what's happening on the other side of the lens. The cameras would also record video that would be retained for 30 days.
Police could watch what the cameras are capturing from the police department or on a laptop inside their patrol car or a mobile command vehicle, Feacher said.
While some people might not like more cameras pointed at them, it's legal to place them in public places and people should expect it nowadays, Henry said. City officials purposely chose non-residential, public places for the cameras.
"We don't want to be Big Brother in neighborhoods," Feacher said.
The mayor invited residents to share their concerns with him before any decisions are made, but he said the only responses he received were "all favorable."
"It gives us an extra layer of visibility if there's a crime," he said. "When you think of the issues on Seabreeze and Main Street we've had, it's probably reasonable."
The dollars needed for the project
The new lighting would generate the largest expense, an estimated $3 million. The cameras are expected to cost $631,000.
With a total annual budget of $325 million, Daytona Beach can't afford to cover the full $3.6 million cost all at once, Feacher said. The expense would probably be spread over two or three years, beginning with the upcoming fiscal year that begins Oct. 1, he said.
A variety of funding sources could help cover the cameras and lighting, including the city's general fund, grants, community redevelopment area revenue, and American Rescue Plan Act dollars. Each city commissioner was given $250,000 in ARPA funds to use on projects of their choosing, and the mayor received $350,000.
Private property owners could also help by allowing the city to position cameras or lights on their buildings, Feacher said.
City Commissioner Ken Strickland said he would like to give $80,000 of his ARPA funds to cameras on crime-troubled Seabreeze Boulevard, which has been troubled by weekend mayhem for years. Since Strickland made that offer, Seabreeze will be the first project tackled if commissioners approve the camera purchases, Feacher said.
The total cost for the Seabreeze cameras is estimated at $125,000, so Strickland's $80,000 would give the city a good running start. All the other areas would have smaller camera bills, with Main Street ringing in at $67,000 and Halifax Marina tallying $66,000.
Strickland said he's pledging the money because his beachside constituents are hopeful the cameras will help reduce crime problems on Seabreeze Boulevard.
City Commissioner Quanita May, who would also like to see cameras added around the Orange Avenue bridge, said she'll contribute some of her ARPA funds to the cameras as well if the plan comes together.
"I think we need to find the money," Strickland said. "It's time we prioritize people who live here instead of preparing for visitors."
You can reach Eileen at Eileen.Zaffiro@news-jrnl.com | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2023/06/03/daytona-beach-nighttime-party-spots-main-st-and-seabreeze-blvd-could-soon-get-more-security-cameras/70279009007/ | 2023-06-03T14:34:56 | 1 | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2023/06/03/daytona-beach-nighttime-party-spots-main-st-and-seabreeze-blvd-could-soon-get-more-security-cameras/70279009007/ |
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Trails of Purpose, a Chesapeake-based nonprofit that uses horses to support military members, is preparing to expand its services to a new facility to accommodate a growing need for mental health resources.
Located in the heart of one of the nation’s most densely populated military communities, co-founder Kayla Arestivo said expanding services was necessary.
“Just look at the news,” said Arestivo, a licensed mental health counselor and military spouse. “Military mental health — Department of Defense mental health — is overrun right now. It is not well supported or billeted.”
Trails of Purpose provides therapeutic care for service members suffering mental hardships, using horses for assisted psychotherapy and mental health education. The various services, which mostly involve handling the horses on foot, are meant to help current and former military members and their families overcome the trauma, transition and trials from military service.
“We’ve doubled our service members every year since we’ve been in existence,” Arestivo said. “I have had chiefs call me and say, ‘Nobody’s picking up the phone, Portsmouth is overrun and I have got this kid.’ And they literally drive the sailor out to us. That is the need.”
Ricky Bledsoe, a Trails of Purpose board member and retired Navy special warfare officer, purchased the property from Lynnette Bukowski, the widow of a veteran Navy SEAL. Bukowski, who owned the farm for nearly 10 years, had turned it into a retreat for veterans returning from combat.
“The whole premise behind buying the place was to continue the mission Lynn started,” said Bledsoe, who had volunteered with Bukowski.
Bledsoe retired as a chief warrant officer 3 in 2021 following a 30-year naval career.
“I noticed there was a lack of attention to people’s well being — especially for their mental health. It was always, ‘Go, go, go’ and not about the individual,” Bledsoe said.
Bledsoe, Arestivo and Trails of Purpose volunteers worked for three hours, ensuring the property will be available to military members and their families to “rest and refit.” Volunteers cleared overgrown vegetation and cleaned up animal pens, a bunk house and a barn.
“If you need a place just get out of the city on the weekends, we have that. If you want to just get out and be amongst nature with horses, without horses, or just sit over there and have lunch and let your kids play,” Bledsoe said. “It is somewhere to totally relax, for you to just withdraw from the overwhelming stuff of reality for a little bit.”
Trails of Purpose sees about 100 military members, veterans and their families per week in individual, spouse, family or group therapy sessions.
“These are people who are built for community,” Arestivo said. “A lot of military members don’t typically have friends outside the military because they have built-in friends in the military. But when you leave the military, you don’t have that anymore. When you come out to us, now you do.
“Now, every Saturday you can show up to groups and you can trust that somebody is going to be there checking in on you. You have a place where you belong.”
In working with One Red Maple Farm, the nonprofit will be able to facilitate additional groups, running in tandem with the Chesapeake location. It hired three additional licensed professional counselors and is leasing seven new horses.
Opening the program at a second location has also expanded Arestivo’s goals.
“I would love for people to understand the value in civilian counselors for the military,” she said. “Maybe we don’t need to report everything back to TRICARE. Maybe people can just go and talk about what’s going on with them and it doesn’t have to be reported to the command.”
Participating in Trails of Purpose is free and is not reported to commanding officers or military health insurance providers. A service member’s participation will only be reported if licensed professional counselors deem that person a threat to themself or others.
Arestivo’s short-term goal is to see the waitlist dwindle. It is currently four weeks.
“But right now, if I remove three from the waitlist, three more replace them,” Arestivo said. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/2023/06/03/exchange-trails-of-purpose/cd11e27a-020e-11ee-9eb0-6c94dcb16fcf_story.html | 2023-06-03T14:40:02 | 0 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/2023/06/03/exchange-trails-of-purpose/cd11e27a-020e-11ee-9eb0-6c94dcb16fcf_story.html |
Patterson Foundation welcomes Sarasota community leader to Governing Board
Patterson Foundation welcomes Sarasota community leader
Cathy Layton, a retired commercial real estate broker and community leader, is joining the Governing Board of the Patterson Foundation philanthropic organization starting Aug. 1.
Layton has served the community in volunteer leadership roles with multiple public and private entities. She most recently served on the boards of the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation and Bay Park Conservancy, chairing both groups. The Patterson Foundation has long supported the BPC and its work to create The Bay, a public park that will span 53 acres along Sarasota’s bayfront.
“In all that she has accomplished, Cathy has demonstrated a forward focus that aligns with The Patterson Foundation’s approach to philanthropy,” said Ric Gregoria, the Patterson Foundation board chairman. “Her longstanding service in the community, values-driven approach to life and work, and extensive knowledge of our region will make her a true asset to the Patterson Foundation’s initiatives.”
Layton, who has lived in Sarasota since 1970, also has served on the Sarasota County Planning Commission, the Sarasota Housing Authority, and the Sarasota County Charter Review Board.
“Throughout my life, I have embraced opportunities to support missions that have a tangible impact on our community and its future,” Layton said. “The Patterson Foundation’s mission to strengthen people, organizations and communities resonates deeply with me.”
Friends of North Sarasota Library holding book sale and fundraiser
The Friends of the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library are holding a book sale on June 9-10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the library at 2801 Newtown Blvd. Proceeds from the semiannual event, which includes popcorn, will help fund free library and community outreach programs for youth, families and adults.
“Our book sale features children’s books, trade, paperbacks, and hardbacks along with CDs, VHS and old books,” organizer Ellia Manners said. “We have plenty of special subject books such as gardening, cooking, spirituality, health, art and more.”
The Friends Book Store is located inside the main lobby. On June 10, all items except specials will be half-priced or two-for-one from 2-4 p.m. “There’s room for about 2,000 book bargains, all in almost perfect shape,“ Manners said. For information about the book sale or to support the Friends Book Store, contact Manners at 207-595-1962 or elliamanners@gmail.com.
New veterans support group organizes North Port meeting
Vet2Vet, an assistance and support program run by military veterans to help other veterans, recently organized a twice-monthly support group in North Port.
"Our goal is to build knowledge and community, to share resources, and to support one another," said program facilitator Tim Long, a disabled combat veteran with more than six years of experience providing peer support services to veterans. "The Vet2Vet facilitators' role is to make veterans comfortable in talking about themselves and to help one another."
The group's next meeting is June 14 from 6-7 p.m. at the Goodwill Manasota Retail Store & Donation Center (14879 Tamiami Trail) on U.S. 41 and Sumter Boulevard in North Port. The group meets every other Wednesday.
Vet2Vet facilitators are veterans who are in recovery from a mental health issue and have experience to share. "We are here to teach and to learn from one another and support one another in the recovery process," said Long, a retired U.S. Army veteran living with PTSD and in recovery from substance use disorder. For more information, visit vet2vetusa.org or contact Long at TimNAMI240b@outlook.com.
Bourbon & Bentleys fundraiser to benefit JFCS of the Suncoast
The JFCS of the Suncoast is hosting a fundraiser, Bourbon & Bentleys, on June 8 from 6-8 p.m. at The Sarasota Studio, 1518 State St. in Sarasota.
The fundraiser will include bourbon tastings in souvenir shot glass amid Bentleys, Aston Martins, McLarens and Rolls-Royces at Dimmitt Automotive Group's luxury and exotic car dealership. The bourbon, provided by Dive Wine & Spirits, will be paired with appetizers from Brick’s Smoked Meats. Entertainment will include magician Pete Michael and music by the Future Urban Zoo band.
The event benefits JFCS and its mental health counseling and human services. For information and tickets, visit JFCS-Cares.org. Event sponsorships are available by contacting Carolan Trbovich at ctrbovich@jfcs-cares.org.
Around and about ...
The Englewood Country Liners enjoy and teach line dancing every Thursday from 9:30–11:30 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 701 N. Indiana Ave., in Englewood. Beginner dances are taught during the first hour and easy intermediate dances in the second hour. “The group is small, but we have a lot of fun,” ECL president Nancy Vargo says. Visit facebook.com/EnglewoodCountryLiners; email linerscountry@gmail.com; or call Vargo at 941-474-6027 for information.
Submissions by Patricia Courtois, Branan Jacobs, Ellia Manners, Tim Long, Melanie Hayes, Jayne Parker. | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/sarasota-community-leader-appointed-to-patterson-foundation-board/70266876007/ | 2023-06-03T14:41:20 | 1 | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/2023/06/03/sarasota-community-leader-appointed-to-patterson-foundation-board/70266876007/ |
SAN ANTONIO — Two people were sent to the hospital after an apartment fire broke out on the southeast side early Saturday morning, according to the San Antonio Fire Department.
The incident occurred on the 4000 block of E. Southcross Blvd. around 2:21 a.m. Saturday.
Fire officials say when they arrived on the scene for a reported fire at The Reserve at Pecan Valley apartment homes they found the first floor of the apartment engulfed in flames. Fire crews were able to contain the fire within minutes.
One person was sent to the hospital in serious condition with burns and a second person was transported due to some type of assault that occurred before fire crews arrived, according to SAFD.
Fire officials say police took one person into custody that fire investigators will speak with.
The fire was contained to one apartment unit and all residents were able to evacuate safely, SAFD says.
No other injuries were reported.
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You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more! | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/apartment-fire-san-antonio/273-94cb5d12-c3b4-47e6-80c9-ac150040e439 | 2023-06-03T14:45:54 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/apartment-fire-san-antonio/273-94cb5d12-c3b4-47e6-80c9-ac150040e439 |
Claytor Lake State Festival Park celebrates 24 yearsDuke Carter, Anchor/ReporterPublished: June 3, 2023, 9:26 AMUpdated: June 3, 2023, 9:32 AMTags: FestivalCopyright 2023 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/claytor-lake-state-festival-park-celebrates-20-years/ | 2023-06-03T14:56:40 | 1 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2023/06/03/claytor-lake-state-festival-park-celebrates-20-years/ |
Along with its usual preparations for monsoon season, the Pima County Regional Flood Control District spent the past year snapping up pricey real estate along a flood-prone street in the Catalina Foothills.
The district has closed on four properties so far northwest of Swan Road and Skyline Drive, with a fifth purchase slated for approval by the Pima County Board of Supervisors within the next month or two.
County taxpayers will end up shelling out about $3.7 million for the five houses, an average of $740,000 each. That does not include the added cost of knocking the structures down and cleaning up the properties to make sure they don’t cause any additional flooding problems elsewhere in the neighborhood built in and around Finger Rock Wash.
“This was an opportunity to remove people from harm’s way,” said Brian Jones, the flood district’s deputy director and floodplain administrator.
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By buying and demolishing the houses, he said, “We’re letting the floodplain be what it was meant to be: open space.”
Elsewhere, the flood district is finishing up some more traditional work ahead of monsoon 2023, which officially begins June 15.
“I think we’re well prepared and ready for this year,” said Colby Fryar, manager of the district’s Infrastructure Management Division.
He said this off-season has been spent on a number of smaller projects, including flood improvements on four washes in Green Valley, bank protection on a wash that runs through a neighborhood in Sahuarita, and construction of a new water-harvesting basin on the east side of Tucson.
In recent days, workers could be seen using heavy equipment to remove sediment and reshape the banks along the Cañada del Oro wash between Overton Road and the North La Cholla Boulevard bridge. Fryar said flooding last year along that stretch of the wash had begun to cut in the direction of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, putting the popular walking and bicycling path at risk.
Crews have also been out scooping built-up sediment and mowing excess trees and shrubs from other flood channels throughout the county to keep them clear ahead of the region’s seasonal downpours.
“It increases the flow capacity of a channel, so it can carry more water,” Fryar said of such routine maintenance work.
Too many plants can dam up channels or get washed downstream to collect dangerously beneath road bridges.
But keeping washes clear is a balancing act, Fryar said, because the trees and bushes that grow there also provide shade and important habitat for wildlife.
“We don’t just go out and clear-cut it. We’re very specific about what we take out,” he said.
Buying up danger
There was no flood district and no county regulations about building in flood zones when the Coronado Foothills Estates subdivision was first mapped out in the early 1960s.
As a result, Jones said, some 56 homes were allowed to be built within the floodplain of Finger Rock Wash.
Two major flash floods have swept down the wash since the Bighorn Fire scorched the Catalina Mountains above the drainage in 2020. Long-time residents of the neighborhood say they have never seen the wash run with such intensity.
But as bad as the most recent torrents were, neither of them approached the level of a 100-year flood, a term hydrologists and statisticians use for a rainfall event with a one-in-100 chance of happening in any given year.
During a downpour like that, Jones said, there will be “dozens more houses surrounded by floodwaters” in the subdivision north of Skyline Drive.
The district is purchasing the five homes in Coronado Foothills Estates with funds from its Flood-prone Land Acquisition Program, or FLAP, which was created after the devastating floods of 1983 to proactively buy imperiled property.
FLAP only buys from owners who are willing to sell and only has about $1 million a year available to purchase property for its appraised value, so to make up the difference this time, the district and the county delayed other, lower priority projects and diverted funds from other accounts, Jones said.
All five houses are located along a quarter-mile stretch of Havasu Road, which runs parallel to the wash and also tends to flood. “Water is coming in their front doors off of Havasu at the same time it’s coming in their back doors from Finger Rock Wash,” Jones said.
One of the homes was operating as an assisted living facility until July 31, when 10 residents had to be rescued by firefighters during a flash flood that filled the building with several feet of water.
Jones said all five homes will be demolished at the same time later this year, after monsoon season is over, to make sure the work is done in a coordinated way that will not alter the flow of the wash and “make things worse for property owners downstream.”
Since last year’s flood, nine homeowners, including the owners of the assisted living facility, have applied for the FLAP program — eight on Havasu Road and the ninth on Placita Arquilla, a low-lying cul-de-sac off of Havasu. One of those homeowners has since withdrawn from consideration.
With five of the homes now in hand, Jones said, the district hopes to reach purchase agreements with the remaining three applicants within the next year and pay for the properties with federal grant money the agency has applied for.
Those eight homes represent “the ones we were most interested in” along Finger Rock Wash, he said. There are other properties in the neighborhood the county would consider buying, but officials have no immediate plans to actively engage with those owners.
“We have gotten — or will be getting — sort of the worst of the worst,” he said.
According to Jones, there are “multiple benefits” to buying up homes that are at serious risk of flooding: It not only protects the people living there, but it prevents firefighters, paramedics and police officers from having to risk their lives to rescue those residents. That, in turn, frees up first responders to answer other calls and potentially save other lives, Jones said.
In some cases, removing flood-prone homes can also reduce runoff risks to other nearby properties and place more land under county control that can then be used to house flood-control infrastructure.
Spending FLAP
The $3.7 million being spent in the Foothills is a lot of money to be sure, Jones said, but it’s “nowhere near our biggest purchase.”
That came after the 2003 Aspen Fire, which burned mountaintop vegetation in the Catalinas that had previously slowed the flow of water and held soil in place. The resulting floods damaged dozens of homes along the Cañada del Oro wash in Catalina and Oro Valley, prompting the district to purchase about 80 properties in that floodplain.
Another major FLAP purchase came in 2006, when a flash flood on the Rincon Wash sent 4 feet of water into some houses along Old Spanish Trail north of the Rocking K Ranch development. Jones said the county ended up buying five properties there.
The flood district is also in the midst of a roughly $2.5 million infrastructure project on Finger Rock Wash, about a half-mile downstream from the homes it just bought, to improve the flow of water beneath Skyline Drive.
Contractors are replacing an old 2-foot pipe with three, 12-foot-wide box culverts to prevent floodwater from collecting behind Skyline and forming a small lake that could cause the roadway berm to collapse.
Jones said the work is on track for completion by the end of June, when the road is slated to reopen.
Though the new culverts won’t completely stop water from forming a pond behind Skyline during heavy floods, they should let enough of the flow through to protect the road and prevent what he called “essentially a dam-failure situation.”
But if Finger Rock Wash gets hit with something greater than a 100-year flood, all bets are off.
“I always try to caveat things,” Jones said. “There’s always a bigger storm.”
Contact reporter Henry Brean at hbrean@tucson.com or 573-4283. On Twitter: @RefriedBrean | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/flood-district-buys-up-pricey-homes-in-foothills-neighborhood/article_1b8d85e8-fb53-11ed-816d-7716b4375ca2.html | 2023-06-03T14:57:16 | 1 | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/flood-district-buys-up-pricey-homes-in-foothills-neighborhood/article_1b8d85e8-fb53-11ed-816d-7716b4375ca2.html |
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
Re: the May 29 article “Starting the conversation about prop 412’s failure.”
Councilman Kozachik’s opinion hit some high notes and filled in the score pretty well with some Council history. Its aspirational tone will have people nodding their heads up and down. Who (other than shareholders) wouldn’t want Tucson Electric Power to commit real dollars to mitigate the mess their energy mix has and will continue to create for Tucson’s precious water resources, air quality — and really our entire way of life. His advice about a side agreement with TEP echoes what has been achieved by other municipalities — legally binding agreements running in tandem with the franchise agreements that commit the utility to climate mitigation dollars and action items. Sounds great, let’s go get some paper and pens and get TEP signed up.
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But there’s always a but, and there’s a reason why TEP’s parent company Fortis has revenues of $11 billion per year and assets of $65 billion. They do not give money away and they do everything legally possible to keep what they have. So any negotiations with TEP will be very high stakes indeed. You might as well call it the World Series of Poker Climate Change. And who better to lead the charge than arguably the most famous poker player of all time, Doyle Brunson. What would Doyle do? Pretty much what he is on record as saying: “Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker.”
So now that 412 has gone down — what has the City learned from that failure to avoid the pitfalls in Doyle’s warning? Based on Kozachik’s opinion I’d say not much. On his own he immediately engaged TEP to begin a rehash and rebirth of a new franchise agreement. Admirable but ill timed and ill conceived. It will take much more than a lone cowboy trying to do the right thing. A strategy like that doesn’t stand much of a chance against the legal machinery that Fortis will bring to bear on any side agreement affecting their bottom line. And as a real slap in the face to Brunson’s sage advice you’ve got all the same chummy players from TEP and the City lined up again about to be re-assembled at the same table talking about the same issues. And you’re expecting different results? That’s the hallmark of insanity. (see Einstein, Albert)
Mayor Romero seems confident that City Attorney staff can take TEP head on and bring home the bacon. The word on the street is that hiring outside legal counsel is a complete non starter, don’t even go there. Yes, I’ll bet dollars to doughnuts that the City Attorney staff are bright, whip smart and energetic; otherwise they wouldn’t be hired — 9-5 lawyer positions with full benefits are rare, coveted and competitive.
But the City is woefully outmatched here and the stakes are almost existential.
The City is on the wrong side of Doyle Brunson’s wise counsel and make no mistake we are in a poker game here with TEP and Fortis. The City is facing a future revenue shortfall with the Flat Tax and If the City continues to rely on its own internal legal resources to match up with TEP/FORTIS the City could be leaving game changing money on the table they never knew existed. Without advice from people who specialize in exactly these kinds of high wire negotiating acts we’ll never know the answer.
Too much is at stake here for the City not to seriously consider hiring or consulting with an experienced attorney — not aligned with the utility industry — who has had success negotiating in the trenches with utilities and with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Without such specialized expertise, the City is in danger of ending up with the short straw and burned by Tom Wait’s famous lyrics: “The large print giveth and the small print taketh away.”
Rick Rappaport is a member of the Tucson Climate Coalition, Tucson chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby and Arizonans for Community Choice Energy | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/local-opinion-proposition-412-defeated-now-what/article_4d291810-ffd6-11ed-809c-4b4ff8799fd4.html | 2023-06-03T14:57:34 | 1 | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/local-opinion-proposition-412-defeated-now-what/article_4d291810-ffd6-11ed-809c-4b4ff8799fd4.html |
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
The debt ceiling is a major topic. It has always been increased when necessary, and the United States has never defaulted on its debts. The first week of June 2023 had been established as when the U.S. cannot pay its debts without raising the debt ceiling.
The debate over raising the debt ceiling seems to have come to a potential agreement. Spending cuts have been the issue holding up the process. No group wants cuts made against their benefit. Defense spending is seldom cut in spite of waste and overpayment for many items. Here are some random military equipment costs: An F-22 Raptor jet is $350 million. A B-2 Stealth bomber is $737 million. An M-2 Abrams tank is $10 million. Patriot missiles are $4 million. Think of the massive costs of all military spending combined.
There are many examples of wasteful spending. Congress gave $500,000 to paint a design on a Boeing 737. There are endless other bizarre examples. One is $7 million for space alien detection. The best may be The Missing $25 Billion. The government knows that $25 billion was spent by someone, somewhere, on something, but auditors did not know who, where, or on what it was spent. There is too much wasteful spending, and it needs tightening, just as we must do with our own finances.
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The present debt ceiling is $31 trillion, and governmental spending is approximately $6.5 trillion. The size of those numbers is hard to comprehend. There may not be a clear understanding without comparing them to everyday, familiar numbers. Here are some examples:
If you were to count to one million without stopping, one number per second, it would take about 11 days. Counting to a billion would take 32 years. Counting to a trillion would take 32,000 years. Counting to the amount of the debt ceiling would take an incredible 992,000 years.
Imagine a box one foot high, wide and deep. Now imagine it full of sand. There are approximately a billion grains of sand in a cubic foot. Think of a swimming pool emptied of water that is 310 feet long, a little longer than a football field. It is 10 feet wide and 10 feet deep, filled with sand. In that 31,000 cubic feet space are approximately 31 trillion grains of sand. Now think that each of those grains of sand equalling a dollar.
No individual has ever been worth a trillion dollars. Only one family, the Rothschilds of banking fame, has ever reached that figure. They could finance wars in Europe. The wealthiest United States family is likely the Waltons, with massive income per day. Even with that, they are not worth a trillion dollars.
The wealthiest United States individuals are Jeff Bezos of Amazon and Elon Musk of Tesla, both having reached nearly $200 billion, depending on stock prices. The wealthiest investor is Warren Buffet, worth an average of $110 billion. There are foreign individuals who are worth vast amounts, including Vladimir Putin and some oil-rich rulers.
To put these numbers into more practical perspective, consider that Tucson’s population is about 540,000. If $1 million were divided equally between them, each person would receive $1.85. Dividing $1 billion, each would receive $1,851. Dividing $1 trillion, each person would get $1,851,851 — almost two million dollars each. Dividing the debt ceiling amount of $31 trillion, each person would get $57.4 million. If the $31 trillion were divided equally among all United States citizens of all ages, each person would receive $93,000 or so.
When we consider all the large numbers involved with debts and spending, it is little wonder that there is confusion and disagreement. It truly is incomprehensible.
Paul McCreary was raised on an Illinois farm, he spent 29 years in education, retired to Indiana, Colorado and now Arizona, where he and his wife and try to remain active and creative. | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/local-opinion-the-debt-ceiling-drama/article_0a78630e-ffd6-11ed-b7ed-eb4f46913558.html | 2023-06-03T14:57:40 | 0 | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/local-opinion-the-debt-ceiling-drama/article_0a78630e-ffd6-11ed-b7ed-eb4f46913558.html |
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Virginia Commonwealth University is launching a program that will develop crime lab trainees into "bench-ready firearms analysts," the school has announced.
The Forensic Firearms Identification Training Certificate Program, an 18-month noncredit program led by VCU's Department of Forensic Science, will train entry-level analysts at police and investigative agencies to conduct microscopic comparisons of firearms-related evidence.
The university anticipates 10,000 students will have a class there next fall.
The program, with its first module tentatively scheduled to start in February, is modeled after a program run by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The American Society of Crime Lab Directors reached out to VCU about establishing the program given a "significant need" for efficient and effective programs in firearms analysis.
“There is a growing push at the national level for independent training programs to be stood up by professional organizations and/or academia,” said Tracey Dawson Green, Ph.D., department chair and professor of forensic science. “We are excited to host this one-of-a-kind forensic firearms training program.”
Stephanie Walcott, a VCU instructor with nearly 15 years of experience as a firearms expert and stints at forensic labs in Virginia and North Carolina under her belt, will lead the program.
Walcott, one of the few full-time faculty members in the country with that level of subject matter expertise, "was clear on wanting to do this when she was hired" in 2019, Dawson Green said. | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/vcu-launches-forensic-firearms-identification-training-certificate-program/article_7a7272bc-008f-11ee-9b31-7b75cd676e13.html | 2023-06-03T15:06:55 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/vcu-launches-forensic-firearms-identification-training-certificate-program/article_7a7272bc-008f-11ee-9b31-7b75cd676e13.html |
Chesterfield officials on Saturday said one person was found dead in a residence that caught on fire Friday night.
Fire crews were called to the structure fire in the 8600 block of Chester Forest Lane at 10:11 p.m. There was heavy smoke, and it took about 30 minutes for the fire to be brought under control, the fire department said.
No other people were inside.
Officials are waiting to release the person's name until the medical examiner makes a positive identification. The Chesterfield Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause.
The Times-Dispatch's 'Photo of the Day' 📷
Jan. 1, 2023
Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb (24) carries the ball as Washington Commanders cornerback Danny Johnson (36) tries to stop him during the first half of a NFL football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Washington Commanders on Sunday, January 1, 2023 in Landover, MD.
Shaban Athuman/ RICHMOND TIMES-D
Jan. 2, 2023
Sharon MacKenzie of Mechanicsville walked with her friend Cindy Nunnally and her golden retriever, Sunny, during a GardenFest for Fidos at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden on Jan. 2.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
Jan. 3, 2023
People remember 8-year-old P’Aris Moore during a vigil in Hopewell on Jan. 3. The girl was shot and killed while playing in her neighborhood.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 4, 2023
UR's Jason Nelson presses down court as George Washington's Brendan Adams, left, and Hunter Dean defend in the Robins Center Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 5, 2023
Manchester's Olivia Wright reaches in on James River's Alisha Whirley at James River Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 6, 2023
Daron Pearson plays basketball at Smith Peters Park in the Carver neighborhood on Friday, January 6, 2023 in Richmond, Va.
Shaban Athuman/ RICHMOND TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 7, 2023
UR's Tyler Burton takes a shot as Duquesne's Joe Reece defends Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 8, 2023
Park ranger Bert Dunkerly leads a walking tour of Revolutionary Richmond on the grounds of the Chimborazo Medical Museum in Richmond on Jan. 8. The tour was part of a multiday annual event interpreting Richmond’s Revolutionary history, including the capture of the city by British General Benedict Arnold on Jan. 5, 1781.
EVA RUSSO, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 10, 2023
Bon Secours Richmond Community Hospital COO Joey Trapani and Richmond City Councilwoman Cynthia Newbille react after cutting the ribbon to commemorate the opening of the East End Medical Office Building on Tuesday. Bon Secours Richmond Market President Mike Lutes (left) and Del. Delores McQuinn, D-Richmond, were also part of the festivities.
EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
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Jan. 11, 2023
Pages are introduced at the Senate chamber during the first day of Virginia General Assembly at Virginia State Capitol in Richmond, Va., on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 12, 2023
Sen. Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, worked at his desk at the Virginia State Capitol on Thursday. Above him is a portrait of former Lt. Gov. Don Beyer, now a congressman representing the 8th District in Northern Virginia.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 13, 2023
Elizabeth Leggett is photographed with her pup Pallas, 10, in her neighborhood in Richmond's business district on January 13, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Jan. 14, 2023
Aubrey Nguyen, age 5, and Andrew Nguyen, age 8, eye the dragon as it comes by during the Tet celebration at Vien Giac Buddhist Temple Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023. Jow Ga Kung Fu, of Virginia Beach, performed the Dragon Dance.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 15, 2023
The St. James's West Gallery Choir sings during "Evensong, A Celebration of the Life and Work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." at St. James Episcopal Church Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 16, 2023
James "States" Manship of Thornburg came to the gun rights rally at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square on Lobby Day, Monday, Jan. 16, 2023, dressed as President George Washington.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 17, 2023
Del. Emily Brewer, R-Suffolk, confers with Del. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke, at the state Capitol on Jan. 17. Brewer sponsored the bill on state purchasing, House Bill 2385.
EVA RUSSO, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 18, 2023
Aaliyah Rouse, 9, and Jennifer Rouse stand by as Aaron Rouse is sworn in in the Senate by Clerk of the Senate Susan Clarke Schaar during a general assembly session at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond, Va., on Wednesday, January 18, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Jan. 19, 2023
Gov. Glenn Youngkin talks to the media at George W. Carver Elementary School on Jan. 19.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 20, 2023
VCU's fans cheer for the team against Richmond during the second half of the NCAA men's basketball game at University of Richmond, Richmond, Va., on Friday, January 20, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 21, 2023
Jacqueline Dziuba, bottom left, and Steven Godwin, who live in Greenville, N.C., and other visitors check out the exhibits at the Poe Museum in Richmond in January as the museum celebrates Edgar Allan Poe’s 214th birthday and its own 100-year anniversary.
Daniel Sangjib Min, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 22, 2023
Paul McLean (left), founder of the Virginia Minority Cannabis Coalition, listens alongside Mark Cannady during the “Is Social Equity in Off the Table in 2023?” portion of the program on Sunday on the second full day of the Virginia Cannabis Conference presented by Virginia NORML at Delta Hotels Richmond Downtown. Lobby Day takes place Monday.
SHABAN ATHUMAN photos, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 23, 2023
The flags at the Executive Mansion are at half-staff to honor those killed and injured in Monterey Park, California last weekend. Photo was taken on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 24, 2023
Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg, listens to debate during a Senate floor session in the state Capitol on a bill to make Daylight Savings Time year-round.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 25, 2023
Gov. Glenn Youngkin listens to George Daniel as he tries some Brunswick stew on Brunswick Stew Day at the Capitol Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. Next to Daniel are (L-R) Dylan Pair, stewmaster Kevin Pair and Austin Pair. The yearly event returned to the Capitol for the first time since the pandemic.
ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 26, 2023
Meghan Vandette is photographed with her dogs, Pepper, a deaf mini Australian shepherd, and Finn on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at Ruff Canine Club in Richmond, Virginia.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 27, 2023
Three-year-old London Oshinkoya (from left) and 3-year-old twins Messiah and Malkia Finley go through the toys brought by Crystal Holbrook-Gazoni near the Gilpin Resource Center in Richmond on Friday.
EVA RUSSO, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 28, 2023
Dance instructor Paul Dandridge (foreground) works with youngsters as he teaches a theater dance during the “Genworth Lights Up! Youth Series: On the Road” at the Center for the Arts at Henrico High School on Saturday. The series offers free workshops and performances throughout the year for youth of all ages.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 29, 2023
Ronnie Jenkins II of Chesterfield County sits inside a Barefoot Spas hot tub with his 11-year-old son, Connor, and his wife, Amber, during the RVA Home Show at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County.
Daniel Sangjib Min photos, TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 30, 2023
Frank Saucier listens as elected officials give remarks during a vigil for Tyre Nichols on Monday at Abner Clay Park in Richmond. Nichols died from the injuries he sustained after being beaten by police officers in Memphis.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
Jan. 31, 2023
Mayor Levar Stoney gets ready to deliver his State of the City on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at the Richmond Main Street Station in Richmond, Virginia.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 1, 2023
Gov. Glenn Youngkin attends the Virginia March for Life in Richmond, VA on February 1, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 2, 2023
Petersburg High School's basketball standout Chris Fields Jr. on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at the Petersburg High School in Petersburg, Virginia.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 3, 2023
Shawnrell Blackwell, left, a Southside Community Development & Housing Corporation homeowner and board member, watches as Dianna Bowser, president and CEO of SCDHC, shares a moment with Suzanne Youngkin during a ceremony at Virginia Housing in Richmond on Friday after Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the first lady presented the first Spirit of Virginia Award of 2023 to the affordable housing nonprofit.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
Feb. 4, 2023
Members of the Break it Down RVA Line Dancing group perform during a Black History Month Celebration at Virginia State University on Feb. 4.
SHABAN ATHUMAN, TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 5, 2023
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin (17) of the Washington Commanders, right, look on before the flag football event at the NFL Pro Bowl on Sunday in Las Vegas. With him are, from left, NFC wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (14) of the Detroit Lions, NFC wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) of the Dallas Cowboys and NFC wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) of the Minnesota Vikings.
John Locher, Associated PRess
Feb. 6, 2023
(From left) U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, and Sethuraman Panchanathan, Ph.D., director of the National Science Foundation, arrive for a tour of VCU's Nanomaterials Core Characterization Facility with lab director and physics professor Massimo Bertino, Ph.D. (right) on Monday, Feb. 6. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 7, 2023
Sen. Dick Saslaw, D-Fairfax, is seen 4 1/2 hours into Tuesday's crossover session at the state Capitol.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
Feb. 8, 2023
Chef Patrick Phelan works with his staff on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at Lost Letter in Richmond, Virginia.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 9, 2023
Onlookers stand near a shattered window on East Broad Street following a shooting on Thursday. One person was killed and another wounded.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
Feb. 10, 2023
Colonial Williamsburg moves a 260-year-old building, originally called the Bray School, on a truck to a new location a mile away, where it will be put on public display, in Williamsburg, Va., on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023. The Bray School is believed to be the oldest building in the US dedicated to the education of Black children.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb 11, 2023
Randolph-Macon celebrate after beating Roanoke College during a NCAA Division III Basketball game on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at Randolph Macon Crenshaw Gym in Ashland, Virginia. With today's win, the Yellow Jackets hold the longest home winning steak in NCAA Division III history.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 12, 2023
The Science Museum of Virginia hosted a competition for student engineers during a commemoration of Celebrate Engineering Ingenuity Day. A packed crowd watches Sunday as a team of “Bridge Breakers” from the American Society of Civil Engineers puts students’ inventions to the test.
Lyndon German
Feb. 13, 2023
A crew from Walter D. Witt Roofing installs a new roof for Melvin Washington, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, as part of the Owens Corning National Roof Deployment Project in Richmond, VA on February 13, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 14, 2023
Richmond City Council member Cynthia Newbille pulls the winning raffle ticket as Marc Edwards, from InnovAge Virginia PACE, holds the basket during the 9th annual "For the Love of Our Seniors" event at Main Street Station in Richmond, VA on February 14, 2023. The event is a resource fair for senior residents and caregivers in Church Hill. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 15, 2023
A crew from the Richmond-based company Cut Cut installs the new art installation "McLean" by Navine G. Dossos on the façade of the Institute for Contemporary Art in Richmond, VA on February 15, 2023. The installation is part of the exhibit "So it appears" opening February 24th. The vinyl pieces being used are adapted from a series of paintings. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 16, 2023
Giov. Glenn Youngkin meets with the community at Westwood Fountain in Richmond, VA on Thursday, February 16, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 17, 2023
Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Alison Linas, left, and Franklin greet Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Jennifer Guiliano and attorney Alex Clarke at the Henrico County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court building on Friday.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
Feb. 18, 2023
Fans take pictures during the All-alumni Block Party before VCU’s game against Fordham on Saturday.
SHABAN ATHUMAN, TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 19, 2023
Virginia Tech's Georgia Amoore, left, waits for a pass from Elizabeth Kitley (33) during the first half of the team's NCAA college basketball game against North Carolina State on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, in Blacksburg.
Matt Gentry, The Roanoke Times
Feb. 20, 2023
Richmond resident David Scates filed an appeal with the VEC last summer four days after the state agency notified him that he had been overpaid unemployment benefits after catching COVID-19 and losing his job. Now, Scates is one of almost 17,000 Virginians at risk of having their appeals dismissed because the VEC contends they filed too late.
EVA RUSSO, TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 21, 2023
State Sen. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, greets chief election officer and college friend Sheryl Johnson (right) at the Tabernacle Baptist Church polling station in Richmond, VA on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 as (from left) election workers Katie Johnson and Eric Johnson look on. McClellan is running to succeed Rep. Donald McEachin, D-4th. McClellan would be the first African American woman to represent Virginia in Congress and would give Virginia a record four women in its congressional delegation. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 22, 2023
Members of the media tour Fox Elementary School in Richmond, VA after Richmond Public Schools Chief Operating Officer Dana Fox provided an update on construction plans to rebuild the school on Wednesday, February 22. The building, which dates to 1911, was heavily damaged in a three-alarm fire on the night of Feb. 11, 2022. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 23, 2023
Marley Ferraro and her boyfriend, Zack Bannister, both VCU freshmen, spend time together between classes at Monroe Park as Thursday weather reaches around 80s in Richmond, Va., on Feb. 23, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 24, 2023
Sen. Aaron Rouse, left, D-Virginia Beach, talks with Sen. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, before a general assembly session at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond, Va., on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 25, 2023
Jenna Anderson of Cosby High shows her medal to her dad, Waylon Anderson, after winning the 112-pound weight class during the VHSL Girls State Open Championships at Unity Reed High in Manassas on Saturday.
SHABAN ATHUMAN, TIMES-DISPATCH
Feb. 26, 2023
Contestants in a duathlon race (run-bike-run competition) dash from the starting line in the first event of the West Creek Endurance Festival at the West Creek Business Park in Goochland County on Sunday.
Mark Bowes
Feb. 27, 2023
Eric and Linda Oakes speak to a small crowd before unveiling a plaque and bench dedicated to their son, Adam Oakes, in the VCU Student Commons building near the office of Fraternity and Sorority Life on February 27, 2023. The date marks the two-year anniversary of Oakes' death in a hazing incident, and VCU is calling this an annual hazing prevention day and day of remembrance for Oakes. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Feb. 28, 2023
Jess Tanner (center) looks on as her daughters Aubrey (left), 10, and Charleigh, 8, deliver Girl Scout cookies to school counselor Michelle Nothnagel (right) and the other teachers and staff members at Manchester High School on February 28, 2023. With help from groups of retired teachers and others in the community, the girls, who are members of Girl Scout Troop 3654, raised over $1,000 to purchase the cookies for the staff. Jess Tanner, is an art teacher at Manchester and also a co-leader of their troop. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
March 1, 2023
Shirley Wiest, left, and Wilma Bowman, center, show a blanket for a veteran with the help of Julie Wiest, daughter of Shirley Wiest, at Sunrise of Richmond in Henrico, Va., on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Shirley Wiest and Wilma Bowman sewed over 3000 blankets for people at the VA Hospital, the Children’s Hospital and Moments of Hope Outreach among others.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 2, 2023
Carl Gupton, president of Greenswell Growers, is shown at the greenhouse of the company in Goochland, Va., on Thursday, March 2, 2023. Greenswell Growers, an automated indoor farming, can produce 28 times more greens per acre than traditional farming. They just sealed a deal with Ukrops and will start selling on Kroger shelves all across the mid-Atlantic.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 3, 2023
Highland Springs walks off the court after beating Stone Bridge during the Class 5 boys basketball quarterfinal on Friday, March 3, 2023 at J.R. Tucker High School in Henrico, Virginia.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 4, 2023
Nutzy plays with Shane Paris-Kennedy,9, during the Richmond Flying Squirrels Nutzy's Block Party on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at The Diamond in Richmond, Virginia.
SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 5, 2023
Patrons wait in line for Caribbean soul food from Mobile Yum Yum, one of the food trucks participating in Mobile Soul Sunday in Monroe Park. The event kicked off the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience, a weeklong celebration of Richmond’s Black-owned restaurants.
Sean McGoey
March 6, 2023
Henrico County officials celebrate the start of renovations at Cheswick Park in Henrico's Three Chopt District on March 6, 2023. The 24.5-acre park, Henrico's oldest official park, will receive $2.1 million in improvements, including a new open fitness area and upgrades to its trails, playground, restroom facilities, pedestrian bridges, parking lot, main entrance, stormwater management infrastructure and signage. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
March 7, 2023
Congresswoman-elect Jennifer McClellan heads into the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC for orientation on March 7, 2023 in preparation for her swearing in as the first Black Congresswoman from Virginia. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
March 8, 2023
Kate Chenery Tweedy shows the exhibition of Secretariat at Ashland Museum in Ashland, Va., on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Kate Chenery Tweedy is spearheading an effort to bring a monument of Secretariat to Ashland.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 9, 2023
John Marano of Top Trumps USA speaks to the media next to Mr. Monopoly at Maggie Walker Plaza in Richmond, Va., on March 9, 2023. Top Trumps USA, under license from HASBRO, will design a Richmond-specific board that highlights the region’s favorite historic landmarks.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 10, 2023
The U.S. Postal Service commemorate the history and romance of train travel with the unveiling of its Railroad Stations Forever stamps during a ceremony at the Main Street Station in Richmond, Va.
Lyndon German
March 11, 2023
Susie Williams of Richmond gets a makeover at the Shamrock the Block Festival in Richmond on Saturday. The festival was relocated to Leigh Street this year.
Daniel Sangjib Min, TIMES-DISPATCH
March 12, 2023
A procession of Fifes and Drums moves down Duke of Gloucester Street in Colonial Williamsburg on Sunday. It traveled from old Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse to the Raleigh Tavern, where Thomas Jefferson and other leaders formed a Committee of Correspondence in 1773.
Sean Jones photos, Times-Dispatch
March 13, 2023
Cuong Luu, foreground, a volunteer of Feed More, prepares boxes of meals with other volunteers and staff at the food bank in Richmond, Va., on Monday, March 13, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 14, 2023
Bill Barksdale, technical director of Virginia Video Network, works with Kelli Lemon, director of digital programming, at the video studio of Richmond Times-Dispatch in Richmond, Va., on March 14, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 15, 2023
Del. Eileen Filler-Corn, D-Fairfax, looks on a portrait after unveiling it as former Speaker of the House at the house chamber of the State Capitol in Richmond, Va., on Wednesday, March 15, 2023. Filler-Corn made history as the first woman and first Jewish Speaker in Virginia.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 16, 2023
MIKE KROPF, THE DAILY PROGRESS Virginia's Isaac McKneely (11) becomes emotional after an NCAA Tournament first round game against Furman in Orlando, Fl., Thursday, March 16, 2023.
Mike Kropf
March 17, 2023
Brian Erbe, center, a pipe manager, and other members of Greater Richmond Pipes and Drums perform to celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Rosie Connolly's Pub Restaurant in Richmond, Va., on Friday, March 17, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 18, 2023
Virginia Tech's Mekhi Lewis takes down Oklahoma State's Dustin Plott during the consolation semifinals at the NCAA Division I wrestling championships, Saturday, March 18, 2023, in Tulsa, Okla. (Ian Maule/Tulsa World via AP)
Ian Maule
March 19, 2023
Virginia Tech's Kayana Traylor (23) is congratulated by teammates after scoring just before halftime of a second-round college basketball game in the women's NCAA Tournament, Sunday, March 19, 2023, in Blacksburg, Va. (AP Photo/Matt Gentry)
Matt Gentry
March 20, 2023
Hannah and Ty Bilodeau of Lynchburg visit the recently completed Richmond Virginia Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with their children, Blythe, 5, Goldie, 4, and Graham, 2, in Glen Allen in Henrico, Va., on Monday, March 20, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 21, 2023
Doug Ramseur, center left, and Emilee Hasbrouck, center right, defense lawyers for Wavie Jones, one of three Central State Hospital employees , who was charged in death of Irvo Otieno, speak to the media at Dinwiddie Courthouse in Dinwiddie, Va., on Tuesday, March 21, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 22, 2023
WRANGLD's, from left, senior customer success manager Trevor Lee, chief business officer Andy Sitison and CEO Jonathan "JD" Dyke work at their office of the 1717 Innovation Center in Richmond, Va., on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 23, 2023
New Bon Secours Community Health Clinic is open in Manchester, Richmond, Va., on Thursday, March 23, 2023. The clinic will serve scheduled appointments and same day call-in appointments for the uninsured. The 8,000 square foot building is also home to the Bon Secours Care-A-Van, a mobile health clinic.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 24, 2023
Liz Kincaid, CEO of RVA Hospitality and owner of Max's On Broad, is photographed at the restaurant in Richmond, VA on March 24, 2023. Max's On Broad will be closing April 1 and will relaunch as a new concept in the summer. Kincaid also owns Tarrant's & Bar Solita. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
March 25, 2023
Henrico County families gather at Deep Run Park & Recreation Center on Saturday to celebrate all things agriculture during the county's second annual Farm Graze event. Children went booth to booth learning about the wonders of agriculture while participating in fun activities and scavenger hunts.
Lyndon German
March 26, 2023
Church Hill resident Alex Gerofsky finishes the Hill Topper 5K at the Church Hill Irish Festival with a time of 20 minutes, 26.8 seconds.
Thad Green
March 27, 2023
Wyatt Kingston, center, conducts a strength training session with Marshall Crenshaw, left, and Kevin Wright, right, at Hickory Hill Community Center in Richmond, Va., on Monday, March 27, 2023. Kingston, 71, has been working with the parks department for nearly 40 years on all kinds of initiatives, particularly those aimed at children in public housing communities.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
March 28, 2023
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, center, talks about the ongoing housing crisis in the city during a news conference on March 28.
Daniel Sangjib Min, TIMES-DISPATCH
March 29, 2023
From left, Caroline Ouko and Leon Ochieng, mother and older brother of Irvo Otieno, react near the casket during the celebration of life for Irvo Otieno at First Baptist Church of South Richmond in North Chesterfield on March 29.
Eva Russo
March 30, 2023
Senior students in Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center's culinary program presented Taj Mahsala: an Indian fusion menu.
SYDNEY SHULER, THE DAILY PROGRESS
March 31, 2023
Richmond Police address onlookers Friday, March 31, 2023 at the intersection of North Avenue and Moss Side Avenue, near Washington Park. Richmond police shot a man who was suspected of shooting a woman earlier in the day in the 1100 block of Evergreen Avenue on Richmond's Southside.
April 1, 2023
Sculptor Jocelyn Russell takes photos of the crowd after the unveiling of her statue of Secretariat at Ashland Town Hall Pavilion on Saturday.
Michael Martz photos, TImes-Dispatch
April 2, 2023
Drivers race in the Toyota Owners 400 at the Richmond Raceway in Richmond, VA on April 2, 2023.. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
April 3, 2023
Dinwiddie County Commonwealth’s Attorney Ann Cabell Baskervill plans to resign from her post to attend graduate school in Paris, where she will start a master’s program in international governance and diplomacy at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, colloquially known as SciencesPo.
EVA RUSSO, TIMES-DISPATCH
April 4, 2023
From left, Judy and Ron Singleton pose for a photo on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. MIKE KROPF/TIMES-DISPATCH
Mike Kropf
April 5, 2023
Beatrix Smith dips her matzah in salt water as she enjoys a Pasover Seder with her classmates (from left) Helen Corallo, Camp Maxwell, and Amara Ellen at the Weinstein JCC Preschool Program in Richmond, VA on April 5, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
April 6, 2023
Virginia Community College System Chancellor David Doré speaks with students at Piedmont Virginia Community College on Thursday.
SYDNEY SHULER, THE DAILY PROGRESS
April 7, 2023
A worker pushed water off a tarp on the field at The Diamond Friday, when the Flying Squirrels were scheduled to open their season against Reading.
MIKE KROPF/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 8, 2023
Ember O’Connell-Evans, 1, plays with hula hoops during the Dominion Energy Family Easter event at Maymont on Saturday.
Mike Kropf, TIMES-DISPATCH
April 9, 2023
Mike Kearney plays an early form of badminton with grandkids Savannah and Ashton on the lawn of Montpelier during “We, the Kids” Day.
ANDRA LANDI, FOR THE ORANGE COUNTY REVIEW
April 10, 2023
Gov. Glenn Youngkin, center left, tours Richmond Marine Terminal with W. Sheppard Miller III , Virginia Secretary of Transportation , center right, as Stephen A. Edwards, left, Virginia Port Authority CEO, and Christina Saunders, manager of Richmond Marine Terminal, give them the tour on Monday, April 10, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 11, 2023
Inaara Woodards, 5, of Henrico, visits Italian Garden at Maymont with her mother, Victoria Crawley Woodards, and three brothers, Kai, 13, Zion, 12, and Avion Woodards, 11, during their home-school field trip to the park in Richmond, VA., on Tuesday, April 11, 2023. "It’s gorgeous!" Victoria Crawley Woodards said of Tuesday weather. She said it was the perfect weather for the field trip and other activities.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 13, 2023
Clarence Thweatt, right, a lead trainer for Chesterfield Public Schools, works on marking points during a transportation road-e-o event, which is friendly competition of school bus drivers demonstrating their driving skills and knowledge of laws, at Chesterfield County Fairgrounds on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 14, 2023
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at Liberty University.
PROVIDED BY LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
April 15, 2023
Tyson Foods workers attend a job fair at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church on Mechanicsville Turnpike. The Glen Allen plant is closing, displacing about 700 employees.
Em Holter
April 16, 2023
A display of 32 white balloons were raised and a 32-second moment of silence was observed in honor of the victims of the April 16, 2007, tragedy at the start of the 2023 3.2-mile Run in Remembrance on the Virginia Tech campus.
MATT GENTRY, The Roanoke Times
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April 17, 2023
Albert Hill Middle School sixth-grader Drew Sirpis looks for birds during the educational boat trip on the James River on Monday.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
April 18, 2023
Richmond Flying Squirrels Luis Matos steals the second base against Erie SeaWolves shortstop Gage Workman in the 3rd inning at The Diamond, Richmond, VA., on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 19, 2023
Children participate in Little Feet Meets at Matoaca High School in Chesterfield, VA on April 19, 2023. A total of 1,400 Special Olympic athletes from grades PK-5 throughout Chesterfield County Public Schools competed in Little Feet Meets between two dates, April 12 at James River High and April 19 at Matoaca High. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
April 20, 2023
Mike Blau, center, a line cook, and others work on preparing a soft opening of The Veil's new taproom, located in Scott’s Addition at 1509 Belleville St., on Thursday, April 20, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 21, 2023
(From left) VCU sophomore Caroline May, of Pittsburgh, PA, and senior Lee Finch, of Norfolk, VA carry a coffin with a blow-up Earth ball during a VCU Student Climate Protest in Richmond, VA on April 21, 2023. The small crowd walked from the James Branch Cabell Library, though Monroe Park, to the office of VCU President Michael Rao in a mock funeral procession. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
April 22, 2023
Anthony Clary gestures as he runs through confetti during the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k on Saturday.
Mike Kropf, TIMES-DISPATCH
April 23, 2023
A volunteer picks up an old wooden palate and brings it to a trash pile during Friends of Fonticello Park's community cleanup on Sunday.
Sean Jones, Times-Dispatch
April 24, 2023
Kay Ford spends time with her cat, Patches, at her home in Mechanicsville, VA., on Monday, April 24, 2023. Ford recently adopted Patches, a 40-pound cat, from Richmond Animal Care and Control. The story of Patches went viral after RACC publicized the cat.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 25, 2023
Emily Cover, a project manager with DPR Construction, is shown at Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, left top, in Richmond, VA., on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. DPR is the team that built the hospital.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 26, 2023
Guests tour the Anthropology Lab at the new College of Humanities and Sciences STEM building on West Franklin Street in Richmond, VA on April 26, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
April 27, 2023
Police tape marks the scene outside George Wythe High School.
ANNA BRYSON/TIMES-DISPATCH
April 28, 2023
Sculptor Kate Raudenbush takes in her finished piece "Breaking Point" in the Flagler Garden Near the Monet Bridge at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden on April 28, 2023. The garden is set to debut "Incanto: An Oasis of Lyrical Sculpture" on Saturday, April 29, 2023. Incanto features five designed, allegorical sculptures, accompanied by poetry, throughout the garden. The exhibition is the work of Raudenbush and poet Sha Michele. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
April 29, 2023
Pharrell Williams performs during the Pharrell's Phriends set at Something in the Water in Virginia Beach on Saturday.
Kendall Warner
May 1, 2023
A man carries a piece of furniture through a neighborhood in Virginia Beach, Va. on Monday May 1, 2023. The City of Virginia Beach declared a state of emergency after a tornado moved through the area and damaged dozens of homes, downed trees and caused gas leaks. (AP Photo/Ben Finley)
Ben Finley
May 2, 2023
Sports Backers Stadium is shown next to The Diamond in this drone photo, in Richmond, VA., on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
May 3, 2023
CAL CARY, THE DAILY PROGRESS UVa cheerleader, Madison DeLoach, in front of other UVa cheerleaders tour the The Avelo Airlines Boeing 737 after landing at Charlottesville Albemarle Airport coming from Orlando on May 3, 2023. Avelo Airlines launched its first Charlottesville to Orlando flight line at the Charlottesville Albemarle Airport on May 3, 2023. The inaugural event consisted of a returning flight from Orlando to Charlottesville Albemarle Airport, a firetruck water salute upon arrival and a tour of the airplane.
Cal Cary
May 4, 2023
(From left) Maryann Macomber, of Mechanicsville, VA, leads a small group prayer with Gloria Randolph, of Richmond, VA, Randolph's great-grandson Xavier Jones, also of Richmond, and John Macomber, of Mechanicsville, during a National Day of Prayer event at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square in Richmond, VA on May 4, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 5, 2023
Steffiun Stanley preps dishes at Birdie's in Richmond, VA on May 5, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 6, 2023
People at the ¿Qué Pasa? Festival sit on the grass and enjoy the weather on Brown’s Island on Saturday.
Mike Kropf/TIMES-DISPATCH
May 7, 2023
Arts in the Park saw thousands pass through Byrd Park over the weekend. The festival is sponsored by the Carilion Civic Association.
Charlotte Rene Woods, Times-Dispatch
May 8, 2023
Gov. Glenn Youngkin shares a quiet moment with Holocaust survivor Halina Zimm on Monday afternoon before ceremonially signing a bill that adds a definition of antisemitism to Virginia law.
David Ress, Times-Dispatch
May 9, 2023
The Molcajete Sinaloa at Mariscos Mazatlan in Henrico, VA on May 9, 2023. Mariscos Mazatlan focuses on traditional Mexican cuisine from the city of Mazatlan and all along the Mexican coast. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 10, 2023
A goose, seen here on May 10, 2023, has built a nest in a median of the parking lot near Dilliards at Short Pump Town Center. The mall has put out orange cones to keep cars away and Jerome Golfman, assistant manager at Fink's Jewelers, said he regularly brings it water, cracked corn and other grains.
Eva Russo, TIMES-DISPATCH
May 11, 2023
Mary Finley-Brook, a professor of environmental studies at the University of Richmond and an expert on American gas infrastructure, says repairing the pipes no longer makes sense as gas prices continue to rise.
Mike Kropf, TIMES-DISPATCH
May 12, 2023
(From left) Sam Amoaka, a freshman at Virginia State University, helps his girlfriend, Tamia Charles, a freshman at Virginia Commonwealth University, move out of her dorm along with her dad, Thomas Charles, of Fredericksburg, VA, in downtown Richmond, VA on May 12, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 13, 2023
Virginia’s Thomas McConvey (left) defends the ball from Richmond’s Jake Kapp during an NCAA Tournament game at Klockner Stadium in Charlottesville on Saturday.
Mike Kropf/TIMES-DISPATCH
May 14, 2023
University of Richmond outfielder Christian Beal made a catch on the run during the Friday game of Spiders-VCU series at The Diamond.
MIKE KROPF, TIMES-DISPATCH
May 15, 2023
The flags at Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission building are flown at half-staff on Monday. Governor Youngkin announced that flags would fly half-staff in honor of Peace Officers' Remembrance Day.
Mike Kropf/TIMES-DISPATCH
May 16, 2023
Ukrop's crumb cake has been picked up by Kroger and is being sold nationwide. Here, fresh cinnamon crumb cakes are packaged at the Ukrop's bakery in Richmond, VA on May 16, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 17, 2023
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney officially proclaims May as Jewish American Heritage Month during a celebration held in collaboration with the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond and the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) at Richmond City Hall in Richmond, VA on May 17, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 18, 2023
Acting Police Chief Richard Edwards stands by as Penn and Victoria Burke places a flower in honor of Sergeant J. Harvey Burke in the wreath at the memorial stone at the Richmond Police Training Academy in Richmond, VA during the Richmond Police Department Police Officers' Memorial Service on May 18, 2023. The ceremony, which took place during National Police Week, paid homage to Richmond's fallen officers. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 19, 2023
Doumit Bouhaidarat fries falafel balls to order during the St. Anthony Lebanese Food Festival on Friday.
Mike Kropf, TIMES-DISPATCH
May 20, 2023
Dogs compete in the Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs — Splash Qualifier #4 event on the second day of Dominion Energy Riverrock on Saturday.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
May 21, 2023
The Virginia men’s tennis team celebrates after winning the national championship on Sunday in Orlando.
Courtesy UVa athletics photos
May 22, 2023
Vietnam War veteran Stuart Blankenship is photographed at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, VA on Monday, May 22, 2023. Blankenship is one of 50 Vietnam War Veterans from throughout the Commonwealth featured in the exhibit “50 Years Beyond: The Vietnam Veteran Experience” which opened at the Virginia War Memorial on January 28, 2023. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
May 23, 2023
Wilbert Hobson poses for a portrait at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, Va, on May 23, 2023. Hobson was part of the 101st Airborne unit of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war. Hobson is very active in his chapter of the American Legion and helped found the Friends of Dupont, and organization. Graduating from an all-Black high school, Vietnam was Hobson’s first real experience with integration. MARGO WAGNER/TIMES-DISPATCH
Margo Wagner
May 24, 2023
Powhatan Owen, shown at the Virginia War Memorial, volunteered for a Burial Honor Guard company in Washington state to commemorate the service of fellow veterans and has further connected with veterans while attending powwows across the U.S.
Eva Russo, Times-Dispatch
May 25, 2023
Madi Mabry laughs with other members of Mango Salon at the 2023 Top Workplaces awards in Richmond on Thursday.
Margo Wagner, Times-Dispatch
May 26, 2023
A solar cell receives light at the Agecroft Hall and Gardens on May 26, 2023, in Richmond, Va. MARGO WAGNER/TIMES-DISPATCH
Margo Wagner
May 27, 2023
Julia Hunter, a shawl dancer, participates in the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe’s powwow on Saturday.
Mike Kropf, TIMES-DISPATCH
May 28, 2023
Festival organizers Pete LeBlanc, left, and Zavi Harman enjoy the second installation of Daydream Fest in front of the Main Line Brewery stage on Sunday.
Gabriela De Camargo Goncalves
May 30, 2023
Gov. Glenn Youngkin speaks during the Commonwealth’s Memorial Day Ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial on Monday.
Margo Wagner, Times-Dispatch
May 31, 2023
Earl Gary, owner of YME Landscape, used a compact tractor to move topsoil for a temporary landscaping at the former site of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's statue on Monument Ave. in Richmond, Va., on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
Daniel Sangjib Min/TIMES-DISPATCH
June 1, 2023
Jorge Figueroa leads tenants and New Virginia Majority organizers in a rally at Southwood Apartments, in Richmond, VA on June 1, 2023 to protest rent increases. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
June 2, 2023
This screenshot from the Virginia Department of Transportation's real-time traffic cameras shows multiple southbound lanes of Interstate 95 closed after a crash near the Belvidere Street exit the morning of Friday, June 2, 2023.
Virginia Department of Transportation | https://richmond.com/news/local/resident-found-dead-in-chesterfield-fire/article_6a5118f6-021b-11ee-ab4a-db17ce86f94f.html | 2023-06-03T15:07:01 | 1 | https://richmond.com/news/local/resident-found-dead-in-chesterfield-fire/article_6a5118f6-021b-11ee-ab4a-db17ce86f94f.html |
Name: Josh Melka
School: Wilmot High School
Parents: Jake and Rebecca Melka of Burlington
Most memorable high school moment: The most memorable part of high school was after AP exams when we had free time in class to go outside and do fun things with all of my friends, or any moment in general that I was having fun with friends.
Most influential teacher: Molly Robbins in AP Calculus AB; Mrs. Robbins has been the most supportive and helpful teacher I have had in all my four years of high school. Even though I’ve only had her as a teacher for one year, I can tell she has such a big passion for teaching and I enjoy every minute of her class. She is very good at explaining things and helping students understand what they’re learning while also making it enjoyable. She is always optimistic and I feel like I could go to her about anything if I ever needed to.
People are also reading…
School activities/clubs: Key Club, National Honor Society, wind ensemble, Theater
School athletics: Cross country, track
Honors, letters or awards: High Honor Roll; 4-year varsity letter for cross country; varsity letters for track; cross country captain; track captain
Out-of-school activities/hobbies: Youth group; piano
College choice: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Intended major/field of study: Physical Therapy
Role model: My mother
Three words that best describe my role model: Hard-working, persistent, and inclusive
What I hope to accomplish in my lifetime: I hope to travel a lot to see other parts of the world through mission trips as well as obtain a job as a Physical Therapist. | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/todays-teen-2023-josh-melka-of-wilmot-high-school/article_c1063ee0-016e-11ee-9678-33b7e709abb5.html | 2023-06-03T15:14:00 | 0 | https://kenoshanews.com/news/local/todays-teen-2023-josh-melka-of-wilmot-high-school/article_c1063ee0-016e-11ee-9678-33b7e709abb5.html |
ANDI the manikin can take the heat. ASU hopes it can also help people weather hotter days
Arizona State University researchers will put a walking, breathing, sweating dummy through its paces in the lab and around the Tempe campus this summer and in coming years, seeking answers about how to keep people safe in hot environments.
The apparatus is intended to help specify the range of conditions and activities during hot weather that can kill people with various physical attributes or conditions, knowledge that gains importance as cities bake hotter under the twin strains of climate change and concrete urban heat islands.
A company called Thermetics custom built this thermal manikin, known as ANDI, for ASU, with funding from the National Science Foundation's Leading Engineering for America’s Prosperity, Health and Infrastructure (LEAP HI) program. Similar manikins are in use elsewhere, such as performance athletic clothing companies testing the effects of garments on the body, but this is the first with an internal cooling system that allows it to be used outdoors and not only in a controlled heat lab.
Placed in the sun, the manikin can sweat in amounts representing a particular body type or age in response to the heat that a network of sensors detects. If researchers cover the manikin in a fabric created for the purpose, that moisture will wick and cover body surfaces and evaporate, cooling similarly to how a person’s sweat works.
Not all people sweat alike — older people sweat less, for instance — so the device can be programmed to determine how much it would take to push different people to the point of heat stroke and death. The device also breathes via a trailing tank, simulating how the exchange of hot air and moisture affects the body.
“You don’t want to run a lot of these (tests) with a real person,” said mechanical engineering professor Konrad Rykaczewski, the project’s principal investigator. “It’s unethical and would be dangerous.”
Help in the heat:'Life and death infrastructure': Volunteers plant trees for a new Phoenix 'cool corridor'
ANDI will test what's too hot for which people
This new device will roll along campus sidewalks along with MaRTy, a portable weather station the university's heat researchers have used for several years to measure radiant temperatures reaching pedestrians from the sun or surfaces like pavement heat.
Besides sensing and responding to the incoming heat, ANDI also generates its own heat based on its movements and the modeled functions of internal organs. A metal rod suspends the manikin from a four-wheeled cart, and cables attached to its heels and elbows move it like a marionette as it rolls along, walking on air. The motion sends data to a computerized nerve center in an air-conditioned trailing cart, which determines how much internal heat the simulated workout would generate.
The device can generate heat ranging from roughly what an incandescent light bulb generates to what a hot toaster oven generates, about the difference between person at rest and one running a marathon. Combined with heat from the sun, the sidewalk and the air, it will show what combination is likely to be too much for specific types of people. Then the researchers can run it through the same conditions again but see what changes when they tweak the manikin’s behavior.
“Maybe you should have spent that extra 15 minutes in the shade,” Rykaczewski said, and so the manikin will try that and record the resulting data. “Maybe we should spray water on you for 20 minutes. Maybe it’s a certain clothing.”
Warming Arizona:Phoenix is not prepared for a simultaneous heat wave and blackout, new research shows
Looking for answers about heat-related deaths
There may be numerous applications that different ASU departments ultimately try, but key among the initial work is to test how different body types respond to real-world heat and adjust safety recommendations accordingly.
“The idea is to look at anything that would help us if we have to be outside or want to enjoy being outside,” Rykaczewski said.
Existing guidelines for heat exposure generally track data collected decades ago from military trainees in the Southeast, he said. That means they apply to young, healthy people exerting themselves in a humid environment. They also are geared toward “average” people.
“We’re definitely not all average, by definition,” he said.
Researchers will develop a chart establishing how different conditions affect people of different shapes and masses. Eventually they’ll also model how different afflictions, such as diabetes or schizophrenia, influence body heat reactions.
These details already are needed for the hot world Arizonans live in. Maricopa County’s preliminary report of last year’s heat-related deaths, compiled this spring, counts 425. That’s an all-time high. And county officials have already confirmed four heat-related deaths this year. Most such deaths occur outdoors, and the report notes an uptick in people experiencing homelessness. But why some people die and others don’t often remains a mystery.
“There are situations we know of in the Valley where people are dying of heat and we still don’t fully understand what happened,” co-investigator Jennifer Vanos, an associate professor of sustainability, said in a statement provided by the university. “ANDI can help us figure that out.”
The utility of such information will only grow as the planet and its cities heat up, according to Rykaczewski.
“Going out here in peak heat (today) might be the average day in 20 years,” he said.
Brandon Loomis covers environmental and climate issues for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Reach him at brandon.loomis@arizonarepublic.com or follow on Twitter @brandonloomis.
Environmental coverage on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Follow The Republic environmental reporting team at environment.azcentral.com and @azcenvironment on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can support environmental journalism in Arizona by subscribing to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2023/06/03/asu-has-a-new-human-shaped-device-for-testing-heat-effects-on-body/70275543007/ | 2023-06-03T15:41:06 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2023/06/03/asu-has-a-new-human-shaped-device-for-testing-heat-effects-on-body/70275543007/ |
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