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Ohio Democrats are seeking to forestall any destruction of Gov. Mike DeWine’s records related to the FirstEnergy bribery scandal, asking for a court injunction against disposing of materials they’ve requested.
Democrats began filing public record requests nearly 10 months ago for texts between DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jon Husted and their staffs related to HB 6, including DeWine’s office calendar of calls, appointments and travel.
“These are questions we started asking in October, answers Ohio voters deserve,” Ohio Democratic Party Chair Elizabeth Walters said Thursday. “But Mike DeWine and his lackeys apparently think that they don’t need to do their job or be held accountable – that they’re above the law. We’re here to make sure they know they aren’t.”
Dan Tierney, DeWine’s press secretary, on Thursday reiterated his earlier statement that “the Ohio Democratic Party has a history of misleading and mischaracterizing our office’s response to public record requests.”
He noted that the governor’s office has provided “more than 4,500 pages” in response to Democrats’ request.
“We are processing even more records in response to these requests, and in some cases, are waiting on the Ohio Democrats to respond to requests for clarification,” Tierney said via email. “This is political season, and once again, Ohio Democrats are trying to mislead Ohioans, this time regarding public records. Ohio Democrats have gone fishing in a pond with no water. They shouldn’t be surprised they can’t catch any fish.”
Democrats put in a request Jan. 24 specifically for DeWine’s calendar from before the passage of HB 6 until recent months, along with 16 other sets of documents potentially related to Akron-based FirstEnergy. They sought all discussions among top administration officials about FirstEnergy or scandal-tainted House Bill 6. That bill, passed in 2019, increased electric rates and provided huge subsidies for nuclear and coal-fired power plants while cutting subsidies for energy efficiency and renewable sources.
The administration responded Feb. 11 with a 17-page letter, which included a heavily redacted version of DeWine’s calendar and requests for clarification on many of the other documents Democrats sought. It cited the public record exemptions for trade secrets and attorney-client privilege to justify the calendar redactions.
Democrats maintain everything they’ve requested should be made available and is of public interest. They specifically requested all communications between DeWine, Husted, 13 current or former senior staff members and Sam Randazzo, former chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, regarding FirstEnergy and numerous related organizations.
DeWine’s office responded by providing 4,595 pages of documents, but said the full request had “multiple, fundamental deficits under Ohio law.”
Many of those 4,595 pages consist of unrelated attachments including legislative reports, public newsletters and state or industry studies. Relevant materials include discussions on appointing Randazzo to the PUCO board, emails to and from Randazzo himself, and documents from the aftermath of his resignation.
DeWine’s office says that response fulfills Democrats’ records request.
“We did get some records, but they fell far short of what we requested, including a calendar that was almost completely redacted,” Walters said.
On May 5, the Ohio Democratic Party filed a civil suit in Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, seeking an unredacted version of DeWine’s calendar and a detailed, 30-item list of related communications. That drew “nothing but crickets” from the administration, Walters said.
She accused DeWine of stalling to “run out the clock,” potentially until the legal requirement to preserve those records expires.
Thus the party filed its latest request, for an injunction to prevent destruction of the information sought.
“Retention procedures for calendars and schedules are unclear and lack significant penalties,” the request says. “Under these circumstances, there is a possibility that the requested records might be destroyed under the applicable document retention schedule.”
Nan Whaley, former Dayton mayor and now Democratic nominee for governor, has assailed DeWine’s connections to the scandal, alleging FirstEnergy spent “millions” to aid his election.
House Bill 6 included a $1.3 billion bailout for FirstEnergy’s two nuclear plants. Prosecutors allege FirstEnergy paid nearly $61 million in bribes to then-House Speaker Larry Householder to get HB 6 passed. Householder was expelled from the General Assembly last June and faces a federal corruption trial.
In early 2019 DeWine appointed Randazzo, a central figure in the scandal, to the PUCO board. Randazzo resigned when the bribery scandal broke. He has not been criminally charged, but was named in a state civil lawsuit and $8 million of his assets have been frozen.
In November, FirstEnergy agreed to return $306 million in excessive profits to Ohio ratepayers. Months earlier, the company agreed to pay $230 million in penalties to avoid federal bribery prosecution.
A federal criminal investigation is ongoing. Lawmakers repealed the bill’s nuclear-plant bailout, but the bill’s subsidies for coal plants and other projects remain.
Neither DeWine nor any of his direct associates have been charged in that ongoing corruption case. In January DeWine said he would be open to further changes in HB 6 so long as Ohio’s nuclear power plants are protected, but has not backed any specific proposals to do so.
About the Author | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/democrats-make-dewine-keep-all-hb-6-info-in-firstenergy-scandal/D7OBVUE5SBFQLJ2AM775FGRLKE/ | 2022-07-07T19:45:25 | 0 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/democrats-make-dewine-keep-all-hb-6-info-in-firstenergy-scandal/D7OBVUE5SBFQLJ2AM775FGRLKE/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Big Beautiful Harry Higgs, who is a resident of Dallas, is now going to be a brand ambassador for a North American indoor golf simulator entertainment concept.
The press release couldn’t describe Higgs any better, “X-Golf, the North American indoor golf simulator entertainment concept, today announces a partnership with Harry Higgs, the beloved PGA TOUR player, dad bod hype man and the common man’s favorite golfer.”
While he is currently residing in Dallas, Harry is a Kansas native and X-Golf will have him join Paige Spiranac and other golfers as an official ambassador for the brand.
“From a brand alignment perspective, the partnership with Harry is a perfect fit for X-Golf,” said Ryan D’Arcy, President and CEO of X-Golf America. “He is a man of the people and our core guests love him. We look forward to a long lasting relationship, while making engaging content along the way.”
Higgs also had high praise for his new partner, “Their technology is the most accurate I’ve seen and the short game and putting are so realistic, it’s crazy. I’m excited to visit locations this year when I’m on the road.”
Want to know more about X-Golf and Harry Higgs’s partnership? Click here! | https://cw33.com/news/local/dallas-golfer-big-beautiful-harry-higgs-named-brand-ambassador-for-indoor-golf-simulator/ | 2022-07-07T19:45:44 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/dallas-golfer-big-beautiful-harry-higgs-named-brand-ambassador-for-indoor-golf-simulator/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Round 1 of the 2022 NHL Draft is set to begin on Thursday at 6 p.m. Central on ESPN as well as being streamed on ESPN+ and North Texas, your Dallas Stars have the No. 18 pick.
The Stars will be hosting a 2022 Draft Party at Owners Box DFW! “Looking for your dinner plans? Join us for our 2022 Draft Party at @OwnersBoxDFW for the first round of the #NHLDraft tonight at 6pm!”
Here’s a look at the Stars selections for this year’s draft:
Round 1: 18th overall
Round 2: 50th overall
Round 3: 83rd overall
Round 4: 115th overall
Round 5: 147th overall
Round 6: 179th overall
For more on the Dallas Stars 2022 NHL Draft, click here. | https://cw33.com/news/local/dallas-stars-hosting-2022-nhl-draft-party-heres-where-and-when/ | 2022-07-07T19:45:50 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/dallas-stars-hosting-2022-nhl-draft-party-heres-where-and-when/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Stars fans, here is some good news as we draw toward the end of the workweek, the Dallas Stars have officially released their regular-season schedule.
Their season starts on Oct. 13 away from American Airlines Center against the Nashville Predators. They will then face Nashville again in Dallas on Oct. 15.
Look below for the official schedule, courtesy of the Dallas Stars:
For more information about the season, click here. | https://cw33.com/news/local/dallas-stars-release-2022-2023-regular-season-schedule/ | 2022-07-07T19:45:56 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/dallas-stars-release-2022-2023-regular-season-schedule/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Looking for a new job? Looking to get into teaching? In or looking to move close/into the North Texas area? Well, you’re in luck as we found a potential fit for you in the city of Frisco.
Frisco ISD is looking to fill several professional, paraprofessional and auxiliary positions. They’re not only looking forward to you submitting your application but want you to attend their July 14 job fair as well!
The school district says, “Do you see yourself in Frisco ISD? We’re looking to fill several professional, paraprofessional and auxiliary positions!”
- Ready to submit an application? Visit http://ow.ly/cxzF50JPSus.
- Want to attend our July 14 job fair? Find event details at http://ow.ly/sL3u50JPSur.
Quick note from Frisco ISD, “Frisco ISD typically posts positions for critical and unique needs as well as difficult-to-fill areas, which include campus-based roles in special education, bilingual/ESL, math, science, library science and counseling. Posted teaching positions may not reflect all available positions. The Human Resources Department accepts applications throughout the year for all teaching positions. In addition, the District has frequent and ongoing needs in Transportation, Child Nutrition and Custodial Services.”
The Frisco ISD Job Fair will be for teachers, paraprofessionals and auxiliary staff positions, “Benefits include a great work environment, school holidays off, paid personal and sick leave, health benefits, access to the teacher retirement system and more.”
The fair is set for July 14 from 3-5 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Center at 9889 Wade Blvd. Want more information? Click here! | https://cw33.com/news/local/on-the-hunt-for-a-new-job-frisco-isd-is-hiring-hosting-a-job-fair-on-july-14/ | 2022-07-07T19:46:03 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/on-the-hunt-for-a-new-job-frisco-isd-is-hiring-hosting-a-job-fair-on-july-14/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — The heat is going to continue into the North Texas weekend and work week next week; the National Weather Service center in Fort Worth is sharing some potential afternoon high temperatures and maximum heat index values for areas across North Texas.
The quick explanation is that very hot conditions are expected to continue into the weekend and early next week with highs between 103-105 degrees for most of North Texas with heat index values ranging from 105-112 degrees.
The center explains, “East of I-35 will see the hottest conditions, as heat index values will exceed 110 degrees in many areas. Please take all necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses this weekend. Spend time in air conditioning indoors, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty. Do all you can to ensure you, your loved ones, and your pets stay safe from the heat!”
Be sure to be weather aware and prepare to beat the heat. | https://cw33.com/news/local/quick-look-at-north-texas-weekend-forecast-as-excessive-heat-continues/ | 2022-07-07T19:46:09 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/quick-look-at-north-texas-weekend-forecast-as-excessive-heat-continues/ |
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — The cost of gas in Texas fell by an average of 16 cents per gallon over the course of a week, the largest decline in the statewide average of the year so far, according to AAA Texas.
Currently, the average price for a gallon of gas in the State of Texas is $4.33, which is 42 cents per gallon less than the national average price.
Still, $4.33 per gallon is $1.52 more per gallon than Texans were paying on average for a gallon of gas this time a year ago.
El Paso drivers are currently seeing the highest average cost per gallon at $4.44. Laredo is the cheapest at $3.98 per gallon on average, the only average price under $4 per gallon in Texas right now.
The national average price for gas is currently $4.75 per gallon of regular unleaded fuel, which is 11 cents less than the national average price a week ago.
Officials with AAA said the reason for the decrease in price is a drop in the price of crude oil, which comes from an expected decline in global demand for gas and an increase in the regional supply of gas.
Daniel Armbruster, a AAA Texas spokesperson, said this is good news for drivers, but we’re not out of the woods yet.
“Gas prices will remain elevated compared to one year ago and could fluctuate in July, which is typically one of the busiest months in Texas for road trips and fuel demand,” Armbruster said.
According to AAA, Texans are currently paying the sixth-lowest gas price average in the country. California drivers are paying the highest average price, currently at $6.19 per gallon.
Here’s how different metropolitan areas in Texas compare with one another: | https://cw33.com/news/local/texas-sees-largest-weekly-decline-in-gas-prices-of-2022/ | 2022-07-07T19:46:15 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/texas-sees-largest-weekly-decline-in-gas-prices-of-2022/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — It’s always touching to watch retiring police officers do their last call, and as Americans, honoring the men and women who serve our communities is a no-brainer. That no-brainer also extends to all the brave doggos and animals out there that also serve.
That’s exactly what the Dallas Police Department did on Wednesday afternoon as they retired one of their beloved K-9s that has served Dallas Love Field Airport as well as other communities in the Dallas area.
The department posted an adorable video of Marco, as he enjoys a VERY-MUCH deserved pup-cake, “Today we retire Marco after 7 years of faithful service. During his career he has served as a viable asset to the department, surround communities, state and federal entities, and the Dallas Love Field Airport. Thank you for your service!” | https://cw33.com/news/local/watch-dallas-police-retire-k-9-marco-celebrates-with-pup-cake/ | 2022-07-07T19:46:21 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/watch-dallas-police-retire-k-9-marco-celebrates-with-pup-cake/ |
DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission is working to move the city in a new direction, and they want to get the public's input. To do so, the organization is hosting community conversations throughout July.
Commissioner Chris Espersen said the goal of having community conversations is to take the temperature of how the public feels, gather what they want and try to make it a reality.
The meetings will dive deeper into issues that have surfaced previously in other community conversations, including public safety, economic opportunity, fair housing practices and advancing equity and justice for all.
Along with those topics, the commission wants to gather new recommendations to consider.
"We have seen so many challenges that people have faced, especially in the past couple of years, and we just really want to make sure that we are making Des Moines a better place for every single person," Espersen said.
During the community conversations, the commission will also provide an update on community recommendations from previous discussions.
This includes implicit bias trainings and the hiring of equity officers to oversee all departments.
Espersen said once the commissioners hear people's suggestions, they'll take that information and provide recommendations to the city council.
The Refugee and Immigrant Advisory Subcommittee and the LGBTQ Advisory Council will also hold community conversations this month to discuss issues pertaining to their communities.
View the schedules for all conversations below:
Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission Conversation Schedule
- July 7 - Polk County River Place, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- July 13 - Polk County River Place, 6-8 p.m.
- July 16 - North Side Library, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
- July 25 - East Side Library, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Refugee and Immigrant Advisory Subcommittee Conversation Schedule
- July 13 - Evelyn K. Davis Center, 6-8 p.m.
LGBTQ Advisory Council Conversation Schedule
- July 7 - Evelyn K. Davis Center, 6-8 p.m.
- Topic: Economic Opportunity
- July 13 - Robert Mickle Center, 6- 8 p.m.
- Hosted in conjunction with Iowa Queer Communities of Color Coalition
- Topic: Public Safety | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/des-moines-civil-and-human-rights-commission-community-conversations/524-0531b1ad-debb-4170-93d0-4c25abc0e0ae | 2022-07-07T19:47:54 | 0 | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/des-moines-civil-and-human-rights-commission-community-conversations/524-0531b1ad-debb-4170-93d0-4c25abc0e0ae |
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — While the national gas prices have been going down a little bit over the past few weeks, they are still much higher than the prices we were seeing a year ago.
The prices are impacting more than our wallets. It is also making an impact on emergency responders.
The Fayetteville Fire Department says for the last few months they’ve had to reevaluate how they do things.
Assistant Fire Chief Willie Watts says they are asking their crews to limit non-emergency and non-training travel in the vehicles. This means that in the past, firefighters might run to the store a few times on their shifts to get things needed, but now they don’t. They’ve asked all on a shift to compile one big list so there’s only one trip to the store.
“From time to time the fire chief and other counterparts make deliveries throughout the day just to try and battle the fuel prices because as you know those firetrucks are a pretty good size and they don’t get very good fuel mileage,” said Watts.
They have a set budget from taxpayers' dollars and just because prices have gone up doesn’t mean their budget has. When it comes to fire trucks, they aren’t exactly fuel-friendly, so one of the biggest changes they’ve had to make is turning some firetrucks off while on the scene of a fire.
“What we can do is the ones that aren’t actively used— pumping water or things like that— we are simply shutting those down and letting them sit, whereas normally we would leave them running,” said Watts.
This means that some firefighters won’t be coming back to an airconditioned car after being in a burning building in 60 pounds of gear.
“Shutting fire trucks down at emergency scenes has never occurred before,” said Watts.
According to Watts, these adjustments are necessary to keep from cutting back on funding for training.
We also heard from Rogers Fire Department and Fayetteville Police Department who say they haven’t had to make changes yet but are being mindful of conserving gas during this time.
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To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/gas-prices-emergency-responders-arkansas/527-2c038139-c6e1-4757-8727-7899135f0f51 | 2022-07-07T19:49:11 | 1 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/gas-prices-emergency-responders-arkansas/527-2c038139-c6e1-4757-8727-7899135f0f51 |
SPRINGDALE, Ark — Springdale police are investigating after a body was found in a wooded area behind an apartment complex.
According to Jeff Taylor with the Springdale Police Department (SPD), around 2:20 p.m. on Wednesday, July 6, officers responded to an anonymous call about a body being found behind the Hudson Apartments on Thompson Street.
Detectives found the body of a man, later identified as 38-year-old Donald Shephard of Springdale, on a path in the wooded area.
His body was sent to the State Medical Examiner's office in Little Rock for an autopsy to determine the manner and cause of death.
Police say there were no obvious signs of trauma and that Shephard was homeless at the time of his death.
No other details have been released at this time.
If you have any information about this case, you're asked to call the Springdale Police Department at (479) 751-4542 or the Criminal Investigation Division at (479) 750-8139.
DOWNLOAD THE 5NEWS APP
DOWNLOAD FOR IPHONE HERE | DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROID HERE
HOW TO ADD THE 5NEWS APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for KFSM in the Channel Store.
For Fire TV, search for "KFSM" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.
To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/police-body-found-in-wooded-area-of-springdale/527-7c4dfd48-b286-4972-a03e-b78fce788aa9 | 2022-07-07T19:49:18 | 1 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/police-body-found-in-wooded-area-of-springdale/527-7c4dfd48-b286-4972-a03e-b78fce788aa9 |
BEEVILLE, Texas — Beeville Police Department have identified the man who died in a shooting at a Beeville motel, as well as the officer who reportedly pulled the trigger.
Just after 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, police were called to the OYO Hotel in Beeville for reports of a man by the name of Jerry Lee Esparza banging on hotel room doors. When Lt. Kenneth Jefferson, who was the first officer on scene, confronted Esparza, Esparza proceeded to pull out a knife and moved toward the officer "in a threatening manner," according to Beeville Police Department.
After ordering Esparza to stop and not come closer, Jefferson drew his issued sidearm and shot Esparza in the upper chest. EMS later arrived to the scene shortly after to try and revive Esparza, but despite efforts, Esparza died at the scene.
Beeville Police Chief Kevin Behr said Esparza approached the car with what he believed to be a knife, which is why Jefferson discharged his firearm.
"We have looked through some of the tapes. We saw this man approach the patrol car In a very aggressive manner," Behr said. "What I would describe as an aggressive manner. Something is in his right hand and he's screaming and yelling. I believe at the officer and as he came closer the officer engaged him with his pistol."
The investigation is now in the hands of the Texas Rangers. Jefferson is on restrictive leave. Meanwhile, Jerry lee Esparza's mother, Frances Esparza Contreras, told 3NEWS that her son had spent eight years in prison. He recently bonded out of the county jail on July 1. She said that she and other family members were paying for him to stay at the hotel. However, she doesn't know how he ever got a knife.
"I don't know how he got a knife or attacking the policeman," Contreras said. "Cause he didn't have no gun or knife. I don't know why they say that. I don't know where he got the knife."
Mrs. Contreras did tell 3NEWS that her son had promised her that once he got out of prison he was going to turn his life around and settle down and have children. Instead, she will now be burying her son.
The Bee County Sheriff's Office is assisting the Beeville Police Department at the scene.
More from 3News on KIIITV.com:
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- CCPD investigates gun-related violence in Corpus Christi
- Carjacking suspect shot by Corpus Christi officer after short chase, police say
- 'Burn them now': John Oliver wants to give Mission-Aransas Reserve $10K for their creepy beach dolls
- Christus Spohn Shoreline reopens COVID floor following increase in cases
- Aransas Pass man dies from injuries after chasing off home intruder
- KIII joins media coalition seeking greater transparency from Uvalde city officials
- Here are the South Texas cities under drought restrictions | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/beeville-police-shooting-involving-officer-near-oyo-hotel/503-2bc2ff68-a2e5-4967-9b70-801cea20e668 | 2022-07-07T19:55:26 | 0 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/beeville-police-shooting-involving-officer-near-oyo-hotel/503-2bc2ff68-a2e5-4967-9b70-801cea20e668 |
BELL COUNTY, Texas — Editor's Note: The attached video is a special produced by 6 News sister station KGW.
The Bell County Sheriff's Department was seeking the public's help to find a 16-year-old girl they said was last seen June 17.
Authorities said Alyssa Joe Miller is considered a runaway. They said she could possibly be in the Gatesville or Coryell County area.
Miller, who's from Troy, is 5' 5" and 110 pounds.
Anyone with information on her whereabouts can call the Bell County Sheriff's Department Criminal Investigations Division at 254-933-5435. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/bell-county-sheriffs-department-seeks-publics-help-to-find-local-teen/500-d10389d1-6389-43e1-a648-92963de34096 | 2022-07-07T19:55:32 | 1 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/bell-county-sheriffs-department-seeks-publics-help-to-find-local-teen/500-d10389d1-6389-43e1-a648-92963de34096 |
AUSTIN, Texas — On Thursday, Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order that authorizes the Texas National Guard and the Texas Department of Public Safety to apprehend immigrants in the country illegally and return them to the border.
In a press release announcing the new order, Gov. Abbott blamed the Biden Administration's recent decision to end Title 42 expulsions and the remain in Mexico policy for "historic levels of illegal crossings." Abbott's office said 5,000 migrants were apprehended over the Fourth of July weekend and that there is an ongoing crisis that has "overrun communities" at the border and across the state.
"While President Biden refuses to do his job and enforce the immigration laws enacted by Congress, the State of Texas is once again stepping up and taking unprecedented action to protect Americans and secure our southern border," said Gov. Abbott. "The cartels have become emboldened and enriched by President Biden's open border policies, smuggling in record numbers of people, weapons and deadly drugs like fentanyl."
Abbott's announcement comes one day after reports that the U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into alleged civil rights violations under his border operation, Operation Lone Star.
RELATED NEWS:
- Justice Department investigating Operation Lone Star for alleged civil rights violations, records show
- Gov. Abbott gives update from Eagle Pass, two days after dozens of migrants were found dead in semitruck
- Operation Lone Star contingent rehearsing for potential mass migration arrivals, Abbott says
- UT researcher's study finds sanctuary policies decrease crime
- Justice Department investigating Operation Lone Star for alleged civil rights violations, records show | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas/abbott-texas-executive-order-border-apprehensions/269-d4f305ee-3a02-4906-8efe-4d5b27dad633 | 2022-07-07T19:55:38 | 0 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas/abbott-texas-executive-order-border-apprehensions/269-d4f305ee-3a02-4906-8efe-4d5b27dad633 |
AUSTIN, Texas — On Thursday, Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order that authorizes the Texas National Guard and the Texas Department of Public Safety to apprehend immigrants in the country illegally and return them to the border.
In a press release announcing the new order, Gov. Abbott blamed the Biden Administration's recent decision to end Title 42 expulsions and the remain in Mexico policy for "historic levels of illegal crossings." Abbott's office said 5,000 migrants were apprehended over the Fourth of July weekend and that there is an ongoing crisis that has "overrun communities" at the border and across the state.
"While President Biden refuses to do his job and enforce the immigration laws enacted by Congress, the State of Texas is once again stepping up and taking unprecedented action to protect Americans and secure our southern border," said Gov. Abbott. "The cartels have become emboldened and enriched by President Biden's open border policies, smuggling in record numbers of people, weapons and deadly drugs like fentanyl."
Abbott's announcement comes one day after reports that the U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into alleged civil rights violations under his border operation, Operation Lone Star.
RELATED NEWS:
- Justice Department investigating Operation Lone Star for alleged civil rights violations, records show
- Gov. Abbott gives update from Eagle Pass, two days after dozens of migrants were found dead in semitruck
- Operation Lone Star contingent rehearsing for potential mass migration arrivals, Abbott says
- UT researcher's study finds sanctuary policies decrease crime
- Justice Department investigating Operation Lone Star for alleged civil rights violations, records show | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/abbott-texas-executive-order-border-apprehensions/269-d4f305ee-3a02-4906-8efe-4d5b27dad633 | 2022-07-07T19:59:42 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/abbott-texas-executive-order-border-apprehensions/269-d4f305ee-3a02-4906-8efe-4d5b27dad633 |
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Invasive fruit flies are buzzing around certain areas of St. Petersburg, posing a threat to the fresh fruits and vegetables at our farmer's markets and grocery stores.
The Oriental fruit flies, which were first discovered in Pinellas County on May 17, triggered a quarantine for an area of St. Pete last month — part of the Florida Department of Agriculture's strategy to get the pests under control.
Under the quarantine, fruits, nuts and vegetables are not supposed to be moved or transported anywhere unless FDACS allows it. This goes for residential households, people selling fruits and vegetables outdoors and companies that leave crates of food outside.
The agency has also ramped up its routine trapping of the flies, with 56,000 fruit fly traps statewide and 500 in Pinellas County alone.
How exactly do the traps work?
FDACS uses two different types of fly traps in the statewide trapping program: the delta and the McPhail.
The aptly-named delta trap is shaped like a triangle and uses a lure to attract the flies. Once the bugs land on a trap, a sticky card captures them. The delta trap is only used to attract male Oriental fruit flies.
The McPhail trap looks like a small plastic bottle filled with liquid. It's a multi-lure trap with a cavity at the bottom and a hole that lets the pests in. Once flies enter the trap, they fall into the liquid and drown. The McPhail trap lures both male and female flies.
FDACS says the density of these traps being used around Florida depends on the risk assessment of the area. In this case, traps are being placed in an 81-square-mile area around fly detections in Pinellas County.
Are the traps working?
Eradication efforts have been underway for three weeks and agriculture officials say they haven't found any Oriental fruit flies in the St. Pete area since June 22.
In addition to the increased use of traps, FDACS says stakeholders within the quarantine area "have been successfully complying with the safeguarding measures currently in place."
What harm do the Oriental fruit flies cause?
The USDA describes the Oriental fruit fly as a "destructive agricultural pest" that can attack a wide variety of produce.
In fact, Florida agriculture officials say the fly is known to infest more than "430 different fruits, vegetables, and nuts by laying its eggs in the hosts, making them unmarketable."
When the flies attack, larvae tunnel through the flesh of the fruit as the bugs feed, making it unfit to eat, according to the California Department of Food and Agriculture. This leaves the inside of the fruit "a rotten mass."
While the Oriental fruit flies pose a threat to our fruits and vegetables, experts say they won't hurt people.
"There are no health consequences to eating fruit infected with larvae, it would just be unpleasant," FDACS wrote in a statement. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/invasive-fruit-fly-oriental-trap-st-pete-pinellas/67-0230eadb-81da-4daf-a886-ede9c160efea | 2022-07-07T20:00:49 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/invasive-fruit-fly-oriental-trap-st-pete-pinellas/67-0230eadb-81da-4daf-a886-ede9c160efea |
POLK COUNTY, Fla. — A 34-year-old Pennsylvania school board member visiting Davenport, Florida, was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff's Office for sexually battering a minor, the agency said in a statement.
Andrew Freeman of Pittsburgh was arrested Wednesday after the alleged incident occurred with a 17-year-old girl on July 4.
Deputies explained the victim told a family friend that Freeman had kissed her, put his hands under her clothing and sexually battered her. She and her mother were in the area for vacation with family and friends, which reportedly included Freeman.
"A family member of the victim’s entered the room and saw Freeman in front of the victim, nearly nose-to-nose," a statement from the sheriff's office reads. "Freeman left the room, and the family member began asking the victim what was going on."
Investigating detectives said Freeman initially denied the allegations, but he eventually admitted to the claims and said "mistakes were made."
"Andrew Freeman has violated the trust of his friends and the people who elected him to the school board," Sheriff Grady Judd said. "I have a feeling the people of Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, no longer want his services with the schools, let alone want him near their children again.
"He sexually battered a child. What was he thinking?" | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/polkcounty/pennsylvania-school-board-member-accused-of-sexual-battery/67-8500e19d-2d29-485a-8f8b-383b420c7ebe | 2022-07-07T20:00:51 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/polkcounty/pennsylvania-school-board-member-accused-of-sexual-battery/67-8500e19d-2d29-485a-8f8b-383b420c7ebe |
TAMPA, Fla — Airport service workers are paying close attention to a bill that could raise their minimum wage and provide more benefits.
If passed by Congress, the “Good Jobs for Good Airports Act" would increase their salaries to $15 an hour and provide paid time off, among other benefits.
Airport service workers from Florida 32BJ SEIU spoke at Tampa International Airport, urging lawmakers to pass the bill.
"It's not enough," skycap Anthony Sanders said. "Everything went up. So it's just...a real struggle."
The union represents contracted workers providing passenger services on the ground, which consists of ramp workers, baggage handlers, wheelchair, lavatory workers, security officers, cabin cleaners and some customer service agents.
Workers said flying through any destination wouldn't be possible without some of the services they provide. However, workers say they're not getting paid enough to survive with $10 an hour.
Sanders said he's on his second day back on the job as a skycap. He recently got a blood clot on his leg due to high blood pressure and said he has no choice but to work.
He said he's now having to live with a friend after being forced to move out of his apartment because he can't afford it.
“It's not a radical proposal. It's the way America should work. We should have good jobs and our good airports should have good jobs," Helene O'Brien, Florida director for 32BJ SEIU, explained.
Union workers said they're pushing for airlines to set better working conditions for them. If not, they hope they'll be forced to through the bill's passage.
Sanders said he sends some of his income to his daughters in New York. He worries he'll need to leave Tampa if the bill doesn't pass.
"He has a blood clot in his leg, no insurance, and he can't even stay home. He has to keep coming to work. It is outrageous in the United States of America," O'Brien said.
Workers believe it's about fair treatment, especially after having to continue working through the brunt of the pandemic in 2020 and the current staffing shortages the industry faces.
Union workers got the chance to share their stories with Congresswoman Val Demings, who toured TPA.
Aside from more pay and paid time off, according to the union, the bill would also:
- Require commercial airport recipients of federal assistance to certify they will ensure the airport service workers are paid no less than the wages and benefits required for federally contracted workers under the Service Contract Act (SCA) or no less than a local minimum wage that is higher than the wage and benefits under the SCA.
- Add accountability to the public resources being invested in airports to ensure our airports are safer and more secure by lowering turnover and increasing the number of trained frontline workers.
10 Tampa Bay reached out to Sen. Rick Scott and Sen. Marco Rubio's offices for comment about the bill along with several airlines but have not heard back. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/tampa-union-airport-service-workers-goods-jobs-for-good-airports-act-seiu-union/67-92257629-8e3f-46eb-9f6e-6bb1381eb296 | 2022-07-07T20:00:51 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/tampa-union-airport-service-workers-goods-jobs-for-good-airports-act-seiu-union/67-92257629-8e3f-46eb-9f6e-6bb1381eb296 |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Sacramento City Unified School District is offering a new summer food pantry available for everyone.
The mobile food pantry is operating at five different locations Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
The program is in partnership with No Kid Hungry and the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.
The Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services is providing boxes of shelf-stable items and they said food insecurity is on the rise in Sacramento this summer. One of the reasons is the lingering aftereffects of the pandemic. The others are high inflation and the rising cost of food.
Kevin Buffalino is a spokesperson for the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.
“We have seen about a 40% increase in our services since March when inflation really hit. Those numbers were already going up prior to school being out but the summer is always tough," Buffalino said.
The food bank is seeing a lot of first-timers this year and they always see an uptick in the summer.
Summer can be a hard time for families struggling with food insecurity.
Some students rely on school for two out of three meals a day. At Sacramento City Unified and charter schools, Nutrition Services supplies 43,000 students a day. Seventy-five percent of those students qualify for free or reduced meal programs.
“Not all of those students are enrolled in summer programs and have access to the summer meals even though summer meals are available to anyone whether they are enrolled or not but some of them have trouble getting to all the summer locations, so we are really bringing the grocery boxes to where our community lives,” said Diana Flores Executive Director Nutrition Services, Central Kitchen and Distribution Services.
Currently, the summer food pantry is serving 100 families a day and it’s increasing every day.
They are prepared to serve 250 families a day. Your family doesn’t have to be enrolled in Sacramento City Unified to pick a bag. In fact, you don’t even need to have children, all are welcome.
Besides this summer pantry, Cal Fresh staff from the River City Food Bank are also available for community members at all the mobile food pantry distribution sites.
Watch more on ABC10 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/sacramento-summer-food-pantry-school/103-662d2387-7cd2-4ab4-a655-96849233811a | 2022-07-07T20:03:40 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/sacramento-summer-food-pantry-school/103-662d2387-7cd2-4ab4-a655-96849233811a |
WATERLOO — A Waterloo man has been arrested for allegedly breaking into a restaurant after hours last month.
Police arrested Julien Romondo Phifer Jr., 28, on Wednesday on charges of third-degree burglary. Bond was set at $5,000.
Court records allege Phifer entered Noodles & Company, 2833 Crossroads Blvd., around 2 a.m. on June 10. He allegedly took something from a desk inside the business and left.
The crime was captured by video surveillance, according to court records.
Police obtained a warrant in the case in June. On Wednesday, Phifer was detained after he allegedly put $20 worth of items into his backpack without paying while at the Kwik Star on West Ninth Street. He was charged with fifth-degree theft.
Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa
Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa
Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa
Unemployment rates, while significantly lower than the alarming pandemic peak of 14.7% experienced in April 2020, remain a subject of concern, notably as economic experts bandy around the idea of a potential recession by 2023. The last economic recession—the Great Recession of 2008-2010—sent rates up to 10% as of October 2009. It was not until the spring of 2019 that unemployment finally went down to the same level it sits at now.
As of May of this year, national unemployment is at 3.6%—as it was in both March and April, marking a three-month stagnation—following a steady drop since that aforementioned COVID-affected peak. Seasonally adjusted unemployment rates by state demonstrate a rather sizable spectrum , ranging from just 1.9% in Nebraska and Utah, to 5.3% in New Mexico and 5.8% in the District of Columbia. Further breakdown by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows yet another county-based spectrum within each state.
To that end, Stacker compiled a list of counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa using data from the BLS . Counties are ranked by unemployment rate in April 2022, which as of this writing is the most current Bureau data.
You may also like: Iowa is the #2 state with the most people living near toxic release facilities
Canva
#50. Cedar County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.08%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 10,524 (219 unemployed)
Kevin Schuchmann // Wikimedia Commons
#49. Franklin County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.08%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 5,622 (117 unemployed)
Rudi Weikard // Wikimedia Commons
#48. Guthrie County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.10%
--- 1 month change: -1.7%
--- 1 year change: -2.4%
- Total labor force: 5,573 (117 unemployed)
Nst101 // Wikimedia Commons
#47. Clay County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.10%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.7%
- Total labor force: 8,509 (179 unemployed)
JNix // Shutterstock
#46. Van Buren County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.11%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 3,693 (78 unemployed)
You may also like: Most popular girl names in the 80s in Iowa
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#45. Union County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.11%
--- 1 month change: -1.5%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 6,147 (130 unemployed)
Canva
#44. Chickasaw County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.13%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -1.6%
- Total labor force: 6,473 (138 unemployed)
Bobak Ha'Eri // Wikimedia Commons
#43. Appanoose County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.14%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 6,088 (130 unemployed)
Jim Roberts // Wikimedia Commons
#42. Emmet County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.14%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -2.0%
- Total labor force: 4,914 (105 unemployed)
Phinn // Wikimedia Commons
#40. Hardin County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.16%
--- 1 month change: -1.6%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 7,900 (171 unemployed)
Daniel Schwen // Wikimedia Commons
#39. Woodbury County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.22%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 54,996 (1,223 unemployed)
Tony Webster // Wikicommons
#38. Henry County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.27%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 9,624 (218 unemployed)
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers // Wikimedia Commons
#37. Polk County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.27%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.6%
- Total labor force: 271,453 (6,155 unemployed)
Lauren Shufelberger // Wikimedia Commons
#36. Cerro Gordo County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.30%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 22,158 (509 unemployed)
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Dan Breyfogle // Wikimedia Commons
#35. Poweshiek County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.30%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 10,664 (245 unemployed)
Smallbones // Wikimedia Commons
#34. Benton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.31%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.2%
- Total labor force: 12,764 (295 unemployed)
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#33. Butler County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.32%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -1.5%
- Total labor force: 8,052 (187 unemployed)
Chris Pruitt // Wikimedia Commons
#32. Wright County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.34%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 6,709 (157 unemployed)
Ann Sullivan-Larson // Wikimedia Commons
#31. Winnebago County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.35%
--- 1 month change: -0.8%
--- 1 year change: -3.8%
- Total labor force: 4,887 (115 unemployed)
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Alexbaumgarner // Wikimedia
#30. Jasper County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.36%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 18,670 (441 unemployed)
Canva
#29. Monona County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.36%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 4,440 (105 unemployed)
JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD // Wikimedia Commons
#28. Dubuque County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.37%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 55,030 (1,305 unemployed)
FluffyGryphon // Wikimedia Commons
#27. Worth County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.40%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.2%
- Total labor force: 4,005 (96 unemployed)
Canva
#26. Hamilton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.40%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 6,959 (167 unemployed)
You may also like: Most popular baby names for girls in Iowa
Ebyabe // Wikimedia Commons
#25. Black Hawk County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.42%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 68,561 (1,658 unemployed)
David Wilson // Wikimedia
#24. Clarke County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.43%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -2.0%
- Total labor force: 4,856 (118 unemployed)
Altairisfar // Wikimedia Commons
#23. Muscatine County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.44%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.7%
- Total labor force: 20,549 (501 unemployed)
Thug outlaw69 // Wikimedia Commons
#22. Webster County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.44%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 18,414 (450 unemployed)
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers // Wikimedia Commons
#21. Louisa County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.45%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -1.7%
- Total labor force: 5,848 (143 unemployed)
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USFWSmidwest // Wikimedia Commons
#20. Dickinson County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.45%
--- 1 month change: -1.5%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 10,090 (247 unemployed)
TheCatalyst31 // Wikimedia Commons
#19. Floyd County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.47%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.2%
- Total labor force: 8,204 (203 unemployed)
Thomson200 // Wikimedia Commons
#18. Madison County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.48%
--- 1 month change: -2.0%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 8,622 (214 unemployed)
Pixabay
#17. Howard County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.52%
--- 1 month change: -1.7%
--- 1 year change: -1.3%
- Total labor force: 5,201 (131 unemployed)
Valis55 // Wikimedia Commons
#15. Wapello County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.55%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.7%
- Total labor force: 16,934 (432 unemployed)
en:User:Cburnett // Wikimedia Commons
#14. Linn County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.56%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.9%
- Total labor force: 117,754 (3,020 unemployed)
Jim Roberts // Wikimedia Commons
#13. Tama County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.65%
--- 1 month change: -2.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 9,223 (244 unemployed)
Bill Whittaker // Wikimedia Commons
#12. Jones County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.65%
--- 1 month change: -1.8%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 10,173 (270 unemployed)
Bubba73 // Wikimedia Commons
#10. Scott County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.74%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -3.3%
- Total labor force: 88,797 (2,430 unemployed)
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#9. Jackson County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.74%
--- 1 month change: -1.6%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 10,718 (294 unemployed)
Springfieldohio // Wikimedia Commons
#8. Winneshiek County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.79%
--- 1 month change: -1.6%
--- 1 year change: -1.5%
- Total labor force: 11,996 (335 unemployed)
Jonathunder // Wikimedia Commons
#7. Clayton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.82%
--- 1 month change: -3.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 9,581 (270 unemployed)
Thomson200 // Wikimedia Commons
#6. Clinton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.87%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.6%
- Total labor force: 22,038 (633 unemployed)
You may also like: Highest-earning counties in Iowa
Nyttend // Wikimedia Commons
#5. Allamakee County
- Current unemployment rate: 3.21%
--- 1 month change: -1.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.5%
- Total labor force: 7,111 (228 unemployed)
Idawriter // Wikimedia Commons
#4. Crawford County
- Current unemployment rate: 3.23%
--- 1 month change: -2.3%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 7,956 (257 unemployed)
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#3. Des Moines County
- Current unemployment rate: 3.88%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.7%
- Total labor force: 18,114 (702 unemployed)
Ian Poellet // Wikimedia Commons
#2. Lee County
- Current unemployment rate: 4.09%
--- 1 month change: -0.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.0%
- Total labor force: 15,243 (624 unemployed)
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Iowa Irish Fest is coming Aug. 5-7 to Lincoln Park and the surrounding area in downtown Waterloo.
Organizers have released the schedule for major events and activities, including music, workshops and more. Tickets are on sale at IowaIrishFest.com. Discounted tickets are available at select businesses across Waterloo, including all Veridian Credit Union locations.
In addition, volunteers are still needed for all areas of the festival. Volunteers receive free admission to all three days of the Fest, an exclusive T-shirt and two free drink tokens. To sign up for a shift, go to IowaIrishFest.com.
Iowa Irish Fest is organized by the Cedar Valley Irish Culture Association, an organization intended to foster and develop Irish fellowship and community outreach through Irish cultural events and programs.
This list hits the major highlights of the festival. The schedule and line-up are subject to change. The fest will go on, rain or shine.
People are also reading…
For a complete list of events at this year’s fest, visit IowaIrishFest.com.
Friday, August 5 (4 p.m. – Midnight)
Nagle Sign/KWWL Stage (Located on Park Avenue)
4 – 4:30 p.m.: Ceremonial Procession – Festival Opening
4:30 – 5 p.m.: Trinity Irish Dancers
5:30 – 7 p.m.: Socks in the Frying Pan
7:45 – 9:15 p.m.: Scythian
10 – 11:30 p.m.: HEADLINER The Red Hot Chilli Pipers
Lincoln Savings Bank Stage (Located on Lafayette Street)
4:30 – 5:45 p.m.: Shane Hennessy
6:15 – 7:30 p.m.: Dublin City Ramblers
9:15 – 9:45 p.m.: The Screaming Orphans
10:30 – Midnight: The Logues
Van G Miller Family Foundation Traditional Music Stage Tent
4:30 – 5:45 p.m.: Blame Not the Bard
6:15 – 7:30 p.m.: Peadar Hickey
8:00 – 9:15 p.m.: Brother Crow
9:45 – 11 p.m.: Boxing Banjo
COR Building
4:45 – 5:30 p.m.: Carpathian Tunes – Ukranian Fiddle Workshop with Alek Fedoryka of Scythian (Bring your own fiddle)
6 – 6:45 p.m.: Write a New Irish Song with Brother Crowe
7:15 – 8 p.m.: The Accidental Story of the Logues with Loguey
Family Area Stage
5 – 5:45 p.m.: Highland Games Demo
6 – 6:45 p.m.: Rugby with the Bremer County Bucks
7:15 – 8 p.m.: Penny Whistle Workshop for Intermediate/Adults with Dan Vaughn
Elks Club
4:45 – 5:30 p.m.: Travel & Tour Workshop with Roxanne O’Bryon and Humble Travel
6 – 6:45 p.m.: Irish Cream Class with Mike Edwards of Five Farms*
6 – 6:45 p.m.: Whiskey Tasting Master Class*
7 – 7:45 p.m.: Blame Not the Bard
7:15 – 8 p.m.: Pairing Single Malt Whiskey and Chocolate with Amanda Korth & Chocolaterie Stam*
7:30 – 8:15 p.m.: Whiskey Tasting Master Class*
Lincoln Park
4 – 7 p.m.: Highland Games Demonstrations
5 – 10 p.m.: The Guinness Experience in the Pub
7 – 8 p.m.: “Forge Off” Blacksmith Competition
Saturday, August 6 (10 a.m. – Midnight)
Nagle Sign/KWWL Stage
11:30 a.m. - Noon: Cedar Glenn Pipes & Drums
12:30 – 2 p.m.: Dublin City Ramblers
2:30 – 3:15 p.m.: Trinity Irish Dancers & Local Dance Kids
3:45 – 5:15 p.m.: The Elders
5:15 – 5:30 p.m.: Highland Games Trophy Awards
6 – 7:30 p.m.: The Screaming Orphans
7:35 – 7:50 p.m.: Director’s Message & Rugby Awards
8:15 – 9:45 p.m.: The High Kings
10:30 – Midnight: HEADLINER Gaelic Storm
Lincoln Savings Bank Stage
Noon – 1:30 p.m.: Boxing Banjo
2 – 3:30 p.m.: The Friel Sisters
4 – 5:30 p.m.: Brother Crowe
6 – 7:30 p.m.: Shane Hennessy
7:35 – 7:50 p.m.: Best Legs in a Kilt Contest
8:15 – 9:45 p.m.: Aoife Scott
10:30 – Midnight: The Logues
Van G Miller Family Foundation Traditional Music Stage Tent
Noon – 1:15 p.m.: Dan Vaughn
3:30 – 4:45 p.m.: Blame Not the Bard with Champagne Academy of Dance
5:15 – 6:30 p.m.: The Black Donnellys
7 – 8:30 p.m.: The Friel Sisters
9 – 10:30 p.m.: Boxing Banjo
COR Building
10 – 10:45 a.m.: Paint & Sip with Tiffani Kieler & AMPERAGE Marketing*
10:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.: Seo Linn
12:45 – 1:30 p.m.: Learning the Art of the American Single Malt with Murphy Quint, Head Distiller for Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery*
2 – 2:45 p.m.: 4 String Claw Hammer Banjo Beginner Class with Paul Bruno of Brother Crowe (bring your own banjo)
3:15 – 4 p.m.: Guitar for Beginners with Shane Hennessy (bring your own guitar)
4:30 – 5:15 p.m.: Irish Songs of Resistance and Remembrance with Peadar Hickey
5:45 – 6:30 p.m.: Group Trad Session Music Workshop with Boxing Banjo
7 – 7:45 p.m.: A History of Irish Literature within Irish Music with Loguey of The Logues
Family Area Stage
10 – 10:45 a.m.: Beginner Bodhran Drum for Kids and Beginners with Ian Gould
10:50 – 11:05 a.m.: Storytime – Ready by Sailors of USS Iowa/USS Sullivan
11:15 a.m. – Noon: Musical Journey Through Ireland with Ian Gould
12:30 – 12:45 p.m.: Storytime – Ready by Sailors of USS Iowa/USS Sullivan
1 – 3 p.m.: Family Area Talent Show
3 – 3:20 p.m.: Prince & Princess Contest
3:30 – 4:15 p.m.: Two-Hand Dances from Donegal with the Friel Sisters
4:45 – 5:30 p.m.: Penny Whistle Workshop for Beginners/Children with Dan Vaughn
5:30 – 6 p.m.: Storytime – Ready by Sailors of USS Iowa/USS Sullivan
Elk’s Club
10 – 11 a.m.: Travel & Tour – Language Workshop and Keegan Bus Tours with Colm Keegan (virtual)
11 – 11:45 a.m.: Travel & Tour – Screaming Orphans’ Cultural Bus Tour of Ireland
11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Whiskey Charcuterie Board with Darian Everding and Mike Hoversten*
Noon – 5:15 p.m..: Whiskey Tasting Master Class (four 45-minute sessions throughout the day)*
12:30 – 1:15 p.m.: Travel & Tour – Roxanne O’Bryon and Humble Travel
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.: Irish Movie – “An Irish Story: This is My Home” and Q&A with The Black Donnellys
3:30 – 4:15 p.m.: Learning the Art of the American Single Malt with Murphy Quint, Head Distiller for Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery*
4:15 – 5 p.m.: Travel & Tour – The Nine to the North with Ian Gould
5:30 – 6:15 p.m.: Whiskey & Women with Darian Everding*
6:15 – 7 p.m.: Blame Not the Bard
7:30 – 8:15 p.m.: Irish Cream Class with Mike Edwards of Five Farms*
Lincoln Park
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Rugby Tournament (Located at the Cedar Valley Soccer Complex – Shuttle Available)
8 a.m.: Bloody Mary/Molly & Irish Coffee Tent (Outside Jameson’s)
9 a.m.: High Nelly Bike Rally* (Registration from 8 – 9 a.m.)
10 a.m.: ShamRock N Fun Run* (Registration from 8:30 – 10 a.m.)
10 – 4 p.m.: Highland Games
11 a.m.: VIP Table Decorating Contest Judging
11 a.m. – 10 p.m.: The Guinness Experience in the Pub (Classes from Noon – 7 p.m.*)
2:15 – 3:15 p.m.: “Forge Off” Blacksmith Competition
5 – 6 p.m.: “Forge Off” Blacksmith Competition
Sunday, August 7 (8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
Nagle Sign/KWWL Stage
10 – 11 a.m.: Mass
11:30 a.m. – Noon: Trinity Irish Dancers
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.: Aoife Scott
2:15 – 3:30 p.m.: Screaming Orphans
4 – 5:30 p.m.: HEADLINER The High Kings
5:40 – 6 p.m.: The Scattering - Led by Sean McGuinness
Lincoln Savings Bank Stage
11 a.m. – Noon: Ian Gould
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.: Shane Hennessy
2 – 3:15 p.m.: The Black Donnellys
3:45 – 5 p.m.: The Friel Sisters
Van G Miller Family Foundation Traditional Music Stage Tent
11 a.m. – Noon: “50 Years, 50 Songs and 1,000 Stories” with the Dublin City Ramblers
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.: Blame Not the Bard
2 – 3:15 p.m.: Brother Crow
3:45 – 5 p.m.: Boxing Banjo
COR Building
9 – 9:45 a.m.: Whiskey, Mimosas & Yoga with Samantha Cota*
11 – 11:45 a.m.: Intermediate Bodhran Drum with Joe McNulty & Dara Healy of Boxing Banjo (bring your own drum)
12:15 – 1 p.m.: Uilleann Pipe Demo with the Friel Sisters
1:30 – 2:15 p.m.: Guitar in Traditional Irish Music with Peadar Hickey
2:45 – 3:30 p.m.: Irish Language – Beginner & Adults with Rang Gaeilge San Cedar Valley
4 – 4:45 p.m.: Advanced Guitar Demo with Shane Hennessy
Family Area Stage
11 – 11:30 a.m.: Storytime – Ready by Sailors of USS Iowa/USS Sullivan
11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Irish Language – Beginners & Kids with Peadar Hickey
Noon – 12:15 p.m.: Coloring Contest Winner Announced
1 – 1:45 p.m.: Celtic Cinderella with Ian Gould
2 – 2:45 p.m.: Trinity Irish Dancers Dance Workshop
3:15 – 4 p.m.: Dublin Song Workshop with Aoife Scott
Elk’s Club
12:30 – 1:15 p.m.: Travel & Tour – Hammond Tours with Sean McGuinness of the Dublin City Ramblers
12:30 – 1:15 p.m.: Whiskey Tasting Master Class*
1:30 – 2:15 p.m.: Travel & Tour – Roxanne O’Bryon and Humble Travel
2:15 – 3 p.m.: Irish Cream Class with Mike Edwards of Five Farms*
3 – 5 p.m.: Irish Movie – “An Irish Story: This is My Home” and Q&A with The Black Donnellys
Lincoln Park
9 – 11:30 a.m.: Traditional Irish Breakfast (Jameson’s Pub)
10 a.m.: Celtic Cruise Motorcycle Rally* (Starting Location – Silver Eagle Harley Davidson/Yamaha; Registration up until 10 a.m.)
11 – 11:30 a.m.: Sheep Herding with Mary Bolton & Don Schomberg
11:30 a.m. – Free Root Beer Floats (Family Fun and Learning Area – available until gone)
Noon – 4 p.m.: The Guinness Experience in the Pub
All items marked with an asterisk require preregistration at IowaIrishFest.com.
Please note that the schedule and lineup are subject to change. Rain or shine, the fest must go on! If you’re feeling the need to beat the heat, or inclement weather begins, enjoy some food and drinks at one of the bars or restaurants on the fest grounds, or stop into one of the boutiques to shop till you drop! We have several fest beverage gardens covered by our tents and, as a backup this year, the Van G Miller Family Foundation Traditional Music Stage Tent will be located on the corner of East 4th Street and Mulberry. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/iowa-irish-fest-aug-5-7-announces-major-highlights-on-schedule/article_a3e7197a-693d-5ca7-a00f-c09a7acaa910.html | 2022-07-07T20:07:14 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/iowa-irish-fest-aug-5-7-announces-major-highlights-on-schedule/article_a3e7197a-693d-5ca7-a00f-c09a7acaa910.html |
WATERLOO — As part of MercyOne’s sponsorship of the Iowa State Fair, the health care system is giving away several ticket packages to the public and its employees.
Prizes include tickets to the fair and a parking pass. Here’s how to enter:
- Share a photo on social media that shows how you Live Your Best Life using #MercyOneLYBL and tag MercyOne. Privacy post settings must be set to public so MercyOne can see the picture. Those who are not social media users can visit MercyOne.org/bestlife to upload a photo.
- The social media post or website submission should include a short, written story about how you are living your best life or how MercyOne has allowed you to keep living your best life.
Each submission represents an entry to win tickets to the fair or other great prizes. The State Fair takes place Aug. 11-21 in Des Moines. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/mercyone-offers-state-fair-tickets/article_2efee143-d771-5796-87cb-97cec5d4a860.html | 2022-07-07T20:07:20 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/mercyone-offers-state-fair-tickets/article_2efee143-d771-5796-87cb-97cec5d4a860.html |
WATERLOO — The 13th annual Rydell Car & Bike Show Benefit will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.
The event takes place at Rydell Chevrolet, 1325 E. San Marnan Drive. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and costs $10 for those who enter a vehicle or motorcycle in the contest.
Awards to be given include top 40 cars, one Best of Show car, top five bikes, one Best of Show bike, and one Dealer’s Choice. No classes will be included in the contest.
Food and beverages will be available from Tama County Pork Producers. Tin Cup Bus Stop will be serving coffee and fresh-squeezed lemonade. All proceeds from the event will be going to Cedar Bend Humane Society and Cedar Valley Hospice.
A person has been detained following an assault that ended in a brief chase and crash in Waterloo on Tuesday after police located him in a Langley Drive apartment around 2:30 p.m. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/rydell-car-bike-benefit-planned-sunday/article_668a482e-0d27-5783-96f1-8d753e7b1dc4.html | 2022-07-07T20:07:26 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/rydell-car-bike-benefit-planned-sunday/article_668a482e-0d27-5783-96f1-8d753e7b1dc4.html |
TEXAS, USA — The Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) confirmed to WFAA on Thursday that the state's juvenile detention facilities have stopped taking in youth due to critical staffing shortages.
The TJJD said the paused intake started last week. In a letter sent from the TJJD interim executive director to facility chiefs, the department said all five state secure facilities are implementing variations of their emergency operation planning.
The TJJD leader said the staffing problem is so severe it could lead to an “inability to provide even basic supervision for youth locked in their rooms.”
“This could cause a significantly impaired ability to intervene in the increasing suicidal behaviors already occurring by youth struggling with the isolative impact of operational room confinement,” the letter read.
As of May, the population hovered at around 570 youth – one of the lowest levels in the last decade, according to state records. A department spokesperson told WFAA on Thursday that there were 140 committed youth on the wait list to come to TJJD.
"TJJD is staying in close contact with Juvenile Probation Departments, to keep them apprised of the situation. The agency regrets that it had to take this action and recognizes that many county facilities also are struggling with staffing shortages reflective of the national staffing crisis," the TJJD spokesperson said in a statement.
TJJD said it is working to resolve the underlying issues and resume intakes as soon as possible.
More Dallas headlines: | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas-juvenile-detention-center-halted-staffing-shortage/287-1e12d0b2-7284-4561-b120-959a6d45cf3a | 2022-07-07T20:10:21 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas-juvenile-detention-center-halted-staffing-shortage/287-1e12d0b2-7284-4561-b120-959a6d45cf3a |
BLOOMINGTON — The nonprofit organization that has taken the lead in advocating for downtown Bloomington for 25 years has dissolved, members confirmed this week.
The Downtown Bloomington Association “met our goals and pretty much completed our mission,” said Vicki Tilton, a past board member of the organization.
Those goals included improving communication between property owners, residents and business owners and the city of Bloomington, as well as cooperation among downtown businesses, she said.
The DBA board began the process of dissolving the organization in April and officially ended operations in June.
“It’s just time to put that group to rest,” said Tilton, whose husband Tim Tilton was most recently board president. “If somebody wants to step up and form a group similar to support the mission of downtown Bloomington, I think there would be support.”
The nonprofit focused on promoting the city’s core was founded in 1996, though previous groups including Bloomington Unlimited had taken up similar missions since at least the 1980s.
With this board decision, which has been finalized by the state, efforts to promote and coordinate downtown businesses and events have been taken up by the city of Bloomington’s economic development division. Prior to dissolving, the DBA had worked closely with the city.
Members of Bloomington’s economic development division could not immediately be reached for comment Thursday.
DBA board members voted to distribute the organization’s remaining funds, which total about $11,000, evenly to other nonprofit groups with connections to downtown or the cultural arts.
Outgoing DBA members will present donations to the West Bloomington Revitalization Project, Inside Out Accessible Art Gallery and Cooperative and the Friends of the Bloomington Center for Performing Arts’s Creativity Center Capital Campaign at 4 p.m. Tuesday at The Mystic Kitchen & Tasting Room, 306 N. Center St.
Elizabeth Lathrop, vice president of the Inside Out board of directors and a gallery member, said this donation was a “wonderful surprise."
“This money will go a long way to helping with gallery and providing supplies for the art classes that we offer to the community,” she said. “Our goal is to make classes that are affordable to everyone because we want everyone to have the benefits of art. So this money is deeply appreciated.” | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/downtown-bloomington-association-dissolves-after-25-years/article_08d51728-fe1e-11ec-ab7b-7b128dfdea02.html | 2022-07-07T20:15:30 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/downtown-bloomington-association-dissolves-after-25-years/article_08d51728-fe1e-11ec-ab7b-7b128dfdea02.html |
BLOOMINGTON — When people pass by Janis Utsler's garden, it sometimes stops them in their tracks.
"What really attracts (people's) attention is the lythrum with the pink," said Utsler, referring to a brilliant perennial on her property. "They're walking or jogging; they'll stop because they haven't seen it anywhere before."
Participants in the upcoming Garden Walk, part of the Glorious Garden Festival hosted by the David Davis Mansion, will get a chance to explore Utsler's homegrown oasis and eight other private gardens around Bloomington-Normal.
The Garden Walk is a main attraction of the festival, which runs from 1 to 7 p.m. July 15 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 16 on the lawn at the David Davis Mansion with vendors and free, family-friendly activities. The walk is the only paid activity that's part of the festival.
"Of the nine, there are three that are within old Bloomington," where visitors have the chance to see older and heirloom plants, said Ellen Culver, co-chair for the festival committee.
"But we also have those gardens that are newer that are still amazing," she said. Three of the newer gardens are in a subdivision southeast of Bloomington.
She added that tickets are good for both days, so visitors can take their time at each garden.
Utsler owns one of the newer featured gardens. Her garden starts in the front lawn and wraps around both sides of the property.
Utsler said that, while she had some experience landscaping, "I've never had a garden this size, my entire life." Her home, which she started building 12 years ago, sits on the bank of a retaining pond.
"I came out here and I was like, wow, I'm going to have to start all over, like, in a big way," Utsler said.
Utsler said she installed massive amounts of stone for retaining walls and had to fight the sloping land to create her garden. She said this has replaced her old hobbies.
"I used to take photographs and used to paint," she said. "I don't have a lot of time for that, so I think this is kind of that fill for that expression."
Utsler said her garden is also a place of relief. "When you can come and enjoy all the different aspects of this and say, 'Hey, I helped design this, and I helped create this' — it's just like being on vacation," she said.
Culver said the festival is partnering with five community partners, including Bloomington's and Normal's public libraries.
"The Bloomington Public Library is having a free story walk in Sarah's Garden," Culver said. "They actually take a book ... and they break it down by page and they place the pages throughout the garden.
"And there's a path, so children and their parents can read the book," she said. This year's book is "Some Bugs," by Angela DiTerlizzi.
Culver said the Garden Walk also has a scavenger hunt for children under 12. All nine garden owners selected an item or plant they have for children to find. "It’s one of the ways we’re trying to get kids excited about planting or growing or appreciating what’s in gardens," Culver said.
The gardens grow a wide variety of plants, from native prairie plants to fruits and vegetables.
"We have some ponds, some fountains," Culver said. "There’s even going to be a lemonade stand at one of the gardens." | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/glorious-garden-festival-returns-to-david-davis-mansion/article_9a1cd3ea-fd3a-11ec-9aef-6f993527844f.html | 2022-07-07T20:15:36 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/glorious-garden-festival-returns-to-david-davis-mansion/article_9a1cd3ea-fd3a-11ec-9aef-6f993527844f.html |
BLOOMINGTON — The Illinois Department of Transportation will hold a public information meeting from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, at Bloomington Junior High School, 901 N. Colton Ave.
The meeting will focus on upcoming improvements to Illinois Route 9, which includes the intersection of Market Street and Martin Luther King Drive east to the intersection of East Empire Street and Carnahan Drive.
Anyone who is interested in the project is welcome to attend.
IDOT representatives will be available to talk about the project and respond to questions and comments, especially regarding bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, impacts on parking, effects on property owners and more. Engineering analyses with drawings, maps and aerial photography will be available for inspection while the representatives are present.
The location of the meeting is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Contact Brian Hogan by July 8 at 217-465-4181 if special accommodations are needed.
Email publicworks@cityblm.org, call 309-434-2225 or visit cityblm.org/departments/public-works/projects-updates/idot-route-9-project for more information. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/idot-to-hold-informational-meeting-wednesday-in-bloomington/article_3734cbae-fe14-11ec-94d2-d344260d2ac8.html | 2022-07-07T20:15:42 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/idot-to-hold-informational-meeting-wednesday-in-bloomington/article_3734cbae-fe14-11ec-94d2-d344260d2ac8.html |
(WJHL) – The Golden State Warriors have added Gate City native Mac McClung from the Los Angeles Lakers summer team to their roster.
According to the Golden State Warriors, McClung has joined the NBA2K23 Summer League 2022 roster. The Warriors’ next game is set for Friday, July 8 against the New York Knicks in Las Vegas.
McClung agreed to a contract with the L.A. Lakers summer team back in April of 2022 and was named G League Rookie of the Year in 2021-2022.
McClung also held short-period contracts with the Chicago Bulls prior to his time with the Lakers. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/golden-state-warriors-pick-up-mac-mcclung/ | 2022-07-07T20:15:46 | 1 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/golden-state-warriors-pick-up-mac-mcclung/ |
BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) – In the lead-up to its grand opening, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino released a series of sneak peeks to show customers just what they can expect from the new venue.
In several posts by the casino’s Facebook page, the photos show a renewed front veneer with a Bristol-specific sign featuring a guitar head — a reference to the city’s long history with country music.
For the merch-minded, the Hard Rock Rock Shop can be seen full of related apparel and souvenirs.
In one photo, a “Buffalo” slot machine can be seen with staff demonstrating how payouts work.
If all the dice-rolling and arm-pulling gets tiring, one photo shows a hand-stretched pizza on its way into an oven in the casino’s “Brick’d” Brick Oven Pizza restaurant. Two others, Mr. Lucky’s and the Bristol Bar, make up the business’s current food offerings.
A bright blue sign appears to greet guests as they enter the venue and sports the logo spotted at all other Hard Rock sites across the globe.
A close-up of a craps table reveals that the blue-felted betting game offers a variable “fire bet,” with payouts of 299 to 1 if a new shooter hits six unique points before they crap out. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/hard-rock-releases-sneak-peeks-inside-new-casino-floor/ | 2022-07-07T20:15:52 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/hard-rock-releases-sneak-peeks-inside-new-casino-floor/ |
UTICA, N.Y. (UPDATED) – Utica police and the fire department's hazmat team are at the scene of a diesel spill on Leland Avenue in North Utica.
Police say a tanker truck became disabled on the 790 West ramp and is leaking a significant amount of fuel. The tank appears to have detached from the front of the truck.
Several roads in the area of Leland Avenue and Route 5 are closed at this time and drivers are asked to avoid the area around the North Utica Shopping Center and the 790 interchange.
The businesses in the shopping plazas have been evacuated and are closed until further notice.
The access to 790 westbound from Leland Avenue and to Leland Avenue from 790 Eastbound are both closed as well.
Herkimer Road is also closed westbound from Genesee Street, but can still be accessed from Dyke Road in the town of Schuyler.
This is a developing story and will be updated. | https://www.wktv.com/news/local/diesel-fuel-spill-in-north-utica-drivers-advised-to-avoid-area/article_91cbedec-fe26-11ec-8527-c3c51d15c83b.html | 2022-07-07T20:19:52 | 1 | https://www.wktv.com/news/local/diesel-fuel-spill-in-north-utica-drivers-advised-to-avoid-area/article_91cbedec-fe26-11ec-8527-c3c51d15c83b.html |
MARION COUNTY, Fla – Scammers are texting links advertising $10 off of Marion County Sheriff’s Office T-shirts, according to deputies.
Deputies said this scam was going around back in January and it has returned.
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They also said that these shirts do not exist and it is an attempt to take people’s money, so please, do not click the link.
The deputies also advised that the numbers on the texts are not functioning numbers, so these are not real people’s numbers. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/dont-click-the-link-t-shirt-sale-text-messages-are-a-scam-deputies-say/ | 2022-07-07T20:23:40 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/dont-click-the-link-t-shirt-sale-text-messages-are-a-scam-deputies-say/ |
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Education on Thursday released reports of school grades, improvement ratings and other accountability metrics for the 2021-22 academic year, noting it was the first full publication of such data since 2019.
In a news release attached to the report, the department said the results “show that schools statewide exceeded expectations,” with Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. crediting Gov. Ron DeSantis for the good news.
“From Spring 2021 to Spring 2022, it’s clear that our teachers and school leaders used every resource at their disposal to lift Florida’s students well beyond expectations,” Diaz said. “We know that these results are thanks to policies that kept schools open and kept kids in the classroom, which has been widely recognized as critical to student achievement. Today we can celebrate these incredible results, while continuing to support the schools that are struggling. With Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida will continue to support our great teachers and implement world class instructional and educational supports to uplift Florida’s education family.”
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According to the state, the “grades” for any given school are calculated by combining as many as 11 factors, including the percentages of full-year students who received passing scores in the four achievement components of English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies, the percentage of high school graduates who earned passing scores in college and career acceleration courses, graduation rates and so on. All of these percentages are added before being divided by 100, and this gives the result.
In the release, the state highlighted individual schools based on their improvements, but not districts.
For example, the FDOE mentioned how every single school that graded F in 2019 improved their grades in 2022, with one earning a B at last check, as well as the following other achievements:
- 53 schools exited the School Improvement Support list in 2022.
- 84% of schools graded D and F in 2019 improved their grades in 2022.
- Overall, elementary schools had the largest increase in the percentage of schools increasing their grade with 20% (351) of elementary schools improving one or more letter grade.
- 469 schools increased their grade in 2022, while 825 schools maintained an A grade and 348 schools maintained a B grade compared to 2019.
Zooming out, the achievements are nowhere near as acute.
Like any other news station, News 6 caters to a designated market area (DMA), with ours comprising of Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia counties.
Here are their results:
Between 2019 and 2022, the table shows none of the 10 school districts in this DMA improved their letter grades, with the majority actually getting worse results.
Brevard, Flagler, Orange and Sumter counties went from A to B, Marion and Polk counties went from B to C and Seminole, Lake, Osceola and Volusia kept the grades they were reporting three years ago. Seminole County’s grade was already an A, as the district mentioned on Twitter.
We're pleased to announce that we remain an "A"-rated district yet again!
— SCPS Info (@SCPSInfo) July 7, 2022
In addition, we ranked 1st amongst all Central Florida Districts, 2nd amongst the 14-largest districts, and 9th amongst all Florida districts! pic.twitter.com/BQQGDw5SD2
FDOE leaders said they applauded the effort from students, parents, faculty and staff that “defied conventional wisdom” and which serve to set the bar for closing achievement gaps in the future.
Read more and crunch the numbers yourself on the FDOE’s website. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/state-says-2021-22-school-grades-far-exceed-expectations-as-central-florida-school-districts-show-little-to-no-improvement/ | 2022-07-07T20:23:46 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/state-says-2021-22-school-grades-far-exceed-expectations-as-central-florida-school-districts-show-little-to-no-improvement/ |
APOPKA, Fla. – Calvin Thomas, a retired Orlando police officer, was among numerous supporters rallying for Austin Duran’s speedy recovery.
The young Apopka firefighter was severely injured after a sand trailer he was trying to move pinned him down.
“This is why we stop here because we know they support the community,” Thomas said.
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Law enforcement, firefighters, Apopka’s mayor and regular customers — all came out Thursday to chip in with Steve White’s cause.
They’re showing solidarity by eating at White’s restaurant, Porkie’s Original BBQ. White is donating 10% of Thursday’s sales to Duran’s recovery.
Duran has needed multiple surgeries and remains in the ICU at Orlando Regional Medical Center.
“You always know being in the fire emergency services that you have that support but to be shown firsthand — it’s just simply humbling,” Sean Wylam, Apopka’s fire chief said. “It truly is a community that it’s something we’re proud to serve and be a part of.”
Bryan Nelson, the Mayor of Apopka told News 6, that Duran’s accident has left city leaders questioning what they can do next.
“You feel terrible for him, the family and you’re just like — OK, you try to go back and say what could we have done different from a city standpoint. It’s just an unfortunate accident,” Nelson said.
The owner of the restaurant is known for giving back to his community.
“That’s what makes Apopka so special. We have a lot of people just like Steve that will come out to support the community,” Nelson said.
Porkie’s Original BBQ in Apopka has been a staple of the city for almost two decades.
“He’s one of us. We’re all in this together,” White said about Duran. “I’ve met him here a few times but just I know the story and I know all the other guys and I’ve been here like 19 years, so they’ve all become real good friends.”
Friends that have become like family.
“We call it the extended family. That’s what makes Apopka different,” the fire chief said. “He’s got a ton of support, one of the most awesome things the reason why we’re here today is the community outpouring of support and love shown towards Austin and our entire department.”
Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/they-support-the-community-apopka-restaurant-raises-money-for-injured-firefighter/ | 2022-07-07T20:23:52 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/they-support-the-community-apopka-restaurant-raises-money-for-injured-firefighter/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – “Hamilton” is returning to the Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and tickets for the show go on sale next week.
The award-winning smash sensation will be coming to the Orlando theatre from Oct. 26 to Nov. 20 and those interested can get tickets starting at 10 a.m. on July 14.
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The musical, presented by Dr. Phillips Center in partnership with Broadway Across America and Florida Theatrical Association, will be performed by the “Angelica cast” of the North American tour company, with Edred Utomi in the titular role, according to their website.
“Hamilton” tells the story of America then, told by America now featuring a mix of hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Dr. Phillips Center said.
“With book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, “Hamilton” is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography,” Dr. Phillips Center officials said.
Those interested can purchase tickets on the Dr. Phillips Center website, by phone at 407-358-6603 or at the Bill & Mary Darden Box Office at 10 a.m.
Prices range from $49 to $169 with a limited number of premium seats available from $199.
Showtimes will vary from 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
There will be ASL interpretation and audio description at the 2 p.m. show on Oct. 29. Future ASL requests should be put at least two weeks in advance before the show, according to the Dr. Phillips Center.
Check out every episode of Riff On This in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/wait-for-it-hamilton-tickets-go-on-sale-next-week-at-dr-phillips-center/ | 2022-07-07T20:23:58 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/wait-for-it-hamilton-tickets-go-on-sale-next-week-at-dr-phillips-center/ |
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Living in the suburbs is paying off. A recent study from Zillow found for the first time in recent years suburban homes are worth more than houses in urban zip codes and experts said the pandemic is the reason for the shift.
The housing market in Central Florida remains hot, but the suburbs are even hotter.
“We have seen a shift,” Amy Moline, the owner of Key Bella Homes at EXP Realty said.
Moline said prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, people wanted to live in urban zip codes.
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“That was definitely more popular. People enjoyed being closer to their business, especially if they’re working downtown,” Moline said. “Downtown was the booming place and the prices were certainly higher than what you would usually see in a suburb.”
Moline said that all changed when people started working from home. She said that opened the opportunity to live farther from where they worked.
Nicole Bachaud, an economist with Zillow, adds the pandemic shifted families’ priorities.
“We’ve also seen a big push for larger homes, homes with more space for a home office or extra bedrooms or whatever that extra space is that people are looking for,” Bachaud said.
Zillow recently conducted a study that found home values in the suburbs are growing faster than in urban areas.
“Suburban and urban home values have tracked very similarly for the past several years and throughout the beginning of the pandemic up until recent months,” Bachaud said.
According to Zillow, in the Orlando market — which covers Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Lake counties — over the past year has seen suburban home values grow by more than $84,000 compared to $69,000 for urban home values.
The highest appreciation was seen in several suburban zip codes, including Zellwood, St. Cloud, Celebration, Kissimmee and Fruitland Park.
Bachaud said just because the suburbs are hot, that doesn’t mean cities are cooling off.
“It’s still an incredibly hot market no matter where you look,” Bachaud said.
Moline adds knowing which areas are most competitive can help potential home buyers navigate the housing market.
“Don’t be scared. If it feels like the right decision for your family and it makes sense financially, do what you need to do,” Moline said.
You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/we-have-seen-a-shift-new-study-finds-homes-worth-more-in-suburban-than-urban-zip-codes/ | 2022-07-07T20:24:04 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/we-have-seen-a-shift-new-study-finds-homes-worth-more-in-suburban-than-urban-zip-codes/ |
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — The Cape May County Health Department will begin making Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine available for children as young as 6 months during a clinic July 26.
The first joint adult and child clinic will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Health Department's office at 6 Moore Road. The vaccine, as it is for adults, will be given to children in a two-dose regime, with the second dose being administered four to eight weeks after the first, county health officials said Thursday.
Two other clinics — the first at the Health Department office from 3 to 5 p.m. July 12 and the second at the Rio Grande Volunteer Fire Company from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 19 — will be for adults only.
Both clinics also will offer booster doses, health officials said.
No appointments are needed for the clinics. Masks, identification and COVID-19 vaccine records, if available, are required, health officials said.
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For more information, visit cmchealth.net. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/cape-may-county-including-young-children-infants-in-covid-19-vaccine-clinic/article_d2eb2092-fe1a-11ec-9ffe-4779c40c7860.html | 2022-07-07T20:31:35 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/cape-may-county-including-young-children-infants-in-covid-19-vaccine-clinic/article_d2eb2092-fe1a-11ec-9ffe-4779c40c7860.html |
The Flagstaff Girls Softball Little League Majors All-Stars team celebrated more than just the Fourth of July as they were riding in their parade float through downtown Flagstaff on Monday.
The team crushed Silver Creek on Friday 12-2 in five innings in Silver Creek to earn the District I championship banner and punch the team’s ticket to the state tournament.
The mercy-rule victory was spearheaded by a nine-run fifth inning in which Flagstaff recorded nine hits and seven RBIs to blow open the game.
The fearsome five of Tatum Alex, Phoebe Talley, Summer Rhodes, Lucy Lanssens and Joy Shafor dominated once again as the first five players in the batting order. They combined for eight hits and six RBIs.
Silver Creek struck out just three Flagstaff batters in the loss. It was like a masterclass on hitting, ball-watching and being patient at the plate for Flagstaff.
Composure at the plate is the secret behind the team’s success this All-Stars postseason (in which they are 3-0 thus far) and it’s what makes it a championship-caliber squad.
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In terms of pitching, the team has been excellent all postseason, but especially in the championship game.
Moving into the circle was Joy Shafor, who had already pitched one game this postseason. Shafor pitched five full innings, allowing just two hits while striking out eight Silver Creek batters.
Shafor threw 69 pitches, 56 for strikes. She didn’t walk a single batter.
Managers Justin Talley and Mike Rhodes have preached winning games one inning at a time.
The game then slowed down offensively, as there was only one run scored between the two teams for the next three innings. The focus shifted to the defensive side of the ball.
The outfielders and Shafor began to buckle down and shut out any sort of Silver Creek momentum at the plate, as they allowed just two hits for the rest of the game.
Then the triumphant fifth inning took place, and Flagstaff knew it had earned a spot in the state tournament.
Ask Talley what the secret to success is, and he’ll say it’s the players’ resounding effort during each game. The key for players as the move on to the state tournament is energy, focus and belief in themselves, and Talley is confident that his players will deliver during the state tournament.
“They have all the tools, and with the hard work they have put in, as long as they stay focused, we should do well,” Talley said via text.
For Rhodes, the key to success is playing smart while making sure each player is holding her own.
“Growing the mental aspect of the game and learning from the experience of the district tournament will help lead to success at the state tournament,” he added. | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/fgsll-majors-all-stars-head-to-state/article_99199bd2-fd4d-11ec-92cd-6b5a4cf2a628.html | 2022-07-07T20:33:10 | 0 | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/fgsll-majors-all-stars-head-to-state/article_99199bd2-fd4d-11ec-92cd-6b5a4cf2a628.html |
HIGH POINT — Authorities have arrested a Thomasville man in the shooting death of a Greensboro man on Saturday evening, according to a news release from High Point police.
Officers arrested Bailey C. Reinolds, 18, on Wednesday and charged him with first-degree murder. He is being held in the Guilford County Jail without bail.
Reinolds is accused of killing Jeremiah L. Moore, 19, of Greensboro. Isaiah H. Wall, 18, of High Point, was injured in the shooting, police said.
The incident occurred at about 7 p.m. near the intersection of North Centennial Street and North University Parkway. The gunshot victims then drove to 1232 Eastchester Drive, where police were called. Moore succumbed to his injuries at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, police said.
It's unclear what led to the shooting and no further information was released.
Anyone with information about violent crime or illegal activity is asked to contact Crime Stoppers of High Point at 336-889-4000 or download and use the P3 mobile app. | https://greensboro.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/thomasville-man-faces-murder-charge-in-shooting-death-of-greensboro-man-in-high-point/article_4a6cc572-fe2e-11ec-a5fc-c3c22747b8ea.html | 2022-07-07T20:34:29 | 0 | https://greensboro.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/thomasville-man-faces-murder-charge-in-shooting-death-of-greensboro-man-in-high-point/article_4a6cc572-fe2e-11ec-a5fc-c3c22747b8ea.html |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK)—Due to several summer events, drivers in Charleston will run into some road closures on the weekend of July 8-10. The full list is below.
Friday, July 8:
- Kanawha Blvd. from Court St. to Hale St. will be closed from noon on Friday, July 8 until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. (Live on the Levee)
- Capitol St. from Kanawha Blvd. to Lee St. will be closed from 3:00 p.m. on Friday, July 8 until 11:00 p.m. on Sunday. (Outdoor dining)
Saturday, July 9:
- Venable Ave from 36th St. to the City National Bank parking lot entrance will be closed from 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 9 until 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 16. (Charleston Public Courts Tennis Tournament)
- Clendenin St. from Quarrier to Lee St. and the intersection of Civic Center Dr. and Quarrier St. will be closed from 2:00 p.m. until midnight on Saturday, July 9. (Chris Stapleton concert)
Sunday, July 10:
- Kanawha Blvd. from Court St. to Greenbrier St. will be closed from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 10. One westbound lane between Morris St. and Hale St. will be open for local traffic. (Outdoor recreation)
- Morris St. between Virginia St. and Quarrier St. will be closed from 8:00 a.m. until noon on Sunday, July 10. (Christ Church United Methodist outdoor church service) | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/charleston-road-closures-for-weekend-of-july-8-10/ | 2022-07-07T20:37:32 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/charleston-road-closures-for-weekend-of-july-8-10/ |
ASHLAND, KY (WOWK) — On July 6, King’s Daughters (KD) Health System added a chat service to their website for patients to easily connect with their team.
KD Chat will directly connect users with the KD Access Center team. Patients will have the option to schedule primary care appointments, mammograms and COVID-19 tests or vaccines.
KD Health System says the Access Center team consists of over 90 scheduling experts that have already served the community through phone services for many years.
The new tool can be accessed on the KD website via a computer, tablet or smartphone. Users will be asked to give identifying information, such as their date of birth and Social Security Number.
The chat is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/kings-daughters-health-system-in-ky-offers-new-chat-service-to-make-appointments/ | 2022-07-07T20:37:39 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/kings-daughters-health-system-in-ky-offers-new-chat-service-to-make-appointments/ |
MASON COUNTY, WV (WOWK)—No charges will be filed in the case of a teen killed in an accidental shooting in Mason County.
The Mason County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office says that after careful review of the facts, they are declining to file charges or pursue prosecution in the case.
Mason County Sheriff Corey Miller said that 16-year-old Ayden Henry was accidentally shot at his home by a friend on Sunday, June 26 and that Henry died while being flown to Cabell Huntington Hospital.
13 News spoke to Ayden’s sister the day after her brother’s death, and she described him as “the sweetest kid.” | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/no-charges-will-be-filed-in-mason-county-teens-accidental-shooting-death/ | 2022-07-07T20:37:41 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/no-charges-will-be-filed-in-mason-county-teens-accidental-shooting-death/ |
SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK)—The South Charleston Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying a man suspected of using a stolen credit card.
They say that the incident happened on June 22 and that the suspect was driving a 2007-2009 silver Kia Sorento.
The suspect was also accompanied by two women.
Anyone with information about this man’s identity should contact Cpl. T.A. Dawson at South Charleston Police Department at 304-744-6903 Ext 219. Anonymous calls can also be made to 304-744-6521. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/south-charleston-police-search-for-stolen-credit-card-suspect/ | 2022-07-07T20:37:47 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/south-charleston-police-search-for-stolen-credit-card-suspect/ |
PUTNAM COUNTY, WV (WOWK) — A Mountain State kid with a passion for drawing and exploring could have his art featured on Google’s homepage for millions of web surfers to see.
Blaise Liu, a West Teays Elementary fifth-grader, was recently selected as the West Virginia winner of the 14th annual Doodle for Google student contest.
In May, West Teays students joined during a surprise assembly to celebrate Liu’s accomplishment. Liu, surrounded by his supportive classmates and mother, appeared giddy with excitement as school officials made the announcement.
The Doodle for Google contest asks students in the United States to create a version of the Google logo inspired by the prompt “I care for myself by … ” This year, students were asked to share how they care for their minds, bodies, and spirits each day.
Liu’s Doodle was titled “Always Curious! (I care for myself by exploring, laughing, and enjoying all things around me).” The drawing was chosen as the state winner among thousands and advances to the public voting phase of the contest.
The public vote will select the Five National Finalists, with the number one spot earning additional prizes. The National Winner will receive a $30,000 college scholarship, and their Doodle will be featured on the Google homepage for a day. The National Winner’s school will also receive $50,000 for the establishment or improvement of a computer lab or technology program.
Voting is open from July 7 at 1 p.m. to July 12. To vote or view a full list of contestants, click here.
For updates, visit the Putnam County Schools website or Facebook page. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/voting-open-for-local-5th-grade-that-placed-in-google-for-doodle-contest/ | 2022-07-07T20:37:53 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/voting-open-for-local-5th-grade-that-placed-in-google-for-doodle-contest/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK)—The arraignment of a woman accused of setting a deadly fire has been continued.
Patricia Kay White was in court on Thursday, and her attorney requested that she undergo a psychological evaluation.
White allegedly set fire to a home in the Kanawha City area of Charleston in late January of 2022. 52-year-old Dennis Rutledge was upstairs in the home when the fire started, and he later died at the hospital from his injuries.
Video surveillance showed a person lean out the rear window of the first floor, retreat back inside the home and then exit through a back door. White was later located and detained at a bus stop nearby.
Dennis Rutledge’s wife spoke with us in Feb. giving her thoughts on the situation and explaining why her husband was in the abandoned home. She explained that they were separated when she decided to go through drug rehabilitation, but her husband refused treatment. Instead, he decided to take residence in the abandoned home with Patricia Kay White and David Sims, where he lost his life.
No new date has been set for White’s arraignment. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/woman-accused-of-setting-deadly-kanawha-city-house-fire-to-undergo-psychological-evaluation/ | 2022-07-07T20:37:59 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/woman-accused-of-setting-deadly-kanawha-city-house-fire-to-undergo-psychological-evaluation/ |
Casperites can peruse a wide swath of work from Wyoming art groups, spin some yarn or pick up a ceramic mug all in one place this week.
Art 321 will kick off its July shows with a reception Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Art 321’s gallery, located at 321 W. Midwest Ave. On Saturday, it'll host its summer Clay Art Market from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The reception overlaps with this summer’s second Art Walk. During the festival — which takes place the first Thursday of each month through September — participating businesses and organizations around downtown Casper host art vendors, live music, food and drinks and more.
For a full list of who else is part of Art Walk this year, visit casperartwalk.com.
This year, Art 321 partnered with three local businesses for a cups, mugs and steins ceramics competition — whose winners will be announced Thursday evening.
Ceramics artists from around Wyoming submitted up to three pieces to the contest. Casper drink connoisseurs Backwards Distillery, Scarlow’s Art & Coffee and Skull Tree Brewery each selected one favorite from the entry pool.
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They’ll partner with the artists behind those works over the next year, Art 321 executive director Tyler Cessor said.
Art 321 is leaving it up to each business and artist to decide what that collaboration looks like. Maybe the businesses will display the artists’ ceramic pieces somewhere, or buy some of their work wholesale, Cessor said.
This month, the gallery will also be displaying a collection of paintings by Cheyenne-based artist James Overstreet. His paintings are emotional, focusing on imagery that “aids viewers in confronting true feelings,” as his website puts it. Most of his works are portraits — which range from realistic to surreal.
Another July exhibit — titled Creative Collectives — will feature works from three different groups of artists. Two are Cheyenne-based art organizations: the WY/Art Coalition, and Cheyenne Makers & Creatives.
The other is a group of three family members, each of whom works in a different medium. Ernie Trujillo is a ceramic artist, Nathan Trujillo is a photographer and Sara Johnson-Trujillo is a painter.
Guests will have the chance to participate in some hands-on activities at Thursday’s reception.
Art 321’s fiber art group, Twisted Stitches, will be showing visitors how to make yarn with a fiber wheel. Similarly, its Ceramics Collective will let people try out a pottery wheel.
Guests can peruse a wide array of ceramics goods at Art 321 on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission to the art market is free.
Artists from nine different art groups and businesses will be there.
The market will include demonstrations by ceramics artists, as well as activities from visitors.
For more information about the market, or Thursday's reception, visit Art 321's website at art321.org
Correction: an earlier version of this article misstated James Overstreet's city of residence. The Star-Tribune regrets this error. | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/art-321-opens-july-shows/article_b1deb152-fd7a-11ec-945c-7f59b1de88e7.html | 2022-07-07T20:39:15 | 1 | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/art-321-opens-july-shows/article_b1deb152-fd7a-11ec-945c-7f59b1de88e7.html |
People living in parts of western Natrona County are being evacuated this afternoon due to a wildfire that ignited in the area, authorities said.
The fire is burning in a rural area off U.S. Highway 20-26. Crews are on scene, according to a Facebook post from the Natrona County Fire District.
The public is being asked to avoid the area near Natrona Road and Pine Mountain and to not park along the highway.
It's unclear how big the blaze is, or how many people or buildings may be threatened by it, Natrona County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Kiera Grogan said. There are "some cabins and residents" in the area, she said.
Officials received a report of a wildland fire burning brush around 11:30 a.m., Grogan said, but the fire had moved and caught nearby trees by 1 p.m.
Evacuations began around noon, Grogan said.
No roads were closed in the area as of 1 p.m., though crews on the scene were monitoring winds and commands from fire officials. Local agencies including the Natrona County Fire Protection District, Bar Nunn Fire and the Bureau of Land Management sent crews out.
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It is the second time in three days that a wildfire has prompted evacuations in Natrona County. On Tuesday, a 39-acre grass fire burning east of town prompted people in the Geary Dome area to leave their homes.
Another small wildland fire ignited Wednesday, near the Casper landfill. It was "quickly contained," Casper fire officials said in a statement.
"Fire activity in the wildland is becoming more frequent as fuels cure and dry out," the statement said Wednesday.
Stage-one fire restrictions went into effect in Natrona County on Thursday, meaning open burning is prohibited. Campfires at homes or in campsite fire rings are still allowed. | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/evacuations-underway-in-western-natrona-county-due-to-wildfire/article_a3fb981a-fe25-11ec-b181-afeafdb743b0.html | 2022-07-07T20:39:21 | 1 | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/evacuations-underway-in-western-natrona-county-due-to-wildfire/article_a3fb981a-fe25-11ec-b181-afeafdb743b0.html |
YUMA, Ariz. — Prosecutors are seeking a one-year prison sentence for a school board member in southern Arizona for illegally collecting four early ballots during the 2020 primary election.
But if probation is imposed instead, prosecutors said the judge should then enforce a provision of Guillermina Fuentes’ plea deal that bars her from holding public office while on probation. Fuentes and another woman, Alma Juarez, were scheduled to be sentenced Thursday afternoon on a ballot abuse conviction in Yuma, but the hearing has been postponed until Sept. 1.
Authorities say Fuentes and Juarez participated in “ballot harvesting.” That's a practice once used by both political parties to boost turnout but was made illegal by a 2016 state law that barred anyone but a family member or caregiver from returning early ballots for another person. It’s the only case filed so far by the state attorney general under the law, which the U.S. Supreme Court upheld last year.
Authorities say Fuentes, a former San Luis mayor, ran a sophisticated operation using her status in Democratic politics in the Arizona border city to persuade voters to let her gather and, in some cases, fill out their ballots. But the crime she admitted in court last month does not involve filling out ballots or any broader efforts.
Fuentes and Juarez each pleaded guilty to a charge of ballot abuse, acknowledging they collected early ballots for people who weren’t family members, didn’t live with them or weren’t receiving care from them.
Fuentes’ conviction is a felony punishable by as little as probation or as much as two years in prison. Juarez's conviction is a misdemeanor, and under her plea agreement, if she has cooperated as promised she will be sentenced to probation and prosecutors will not seek jail time.
Three other felony charges, accusing Fuentes of filling out one voter’s ballot and forging signatures on some of the four ballots she illegally returned, were dismissed.
Republicans repeating unsupported claims that President Donald Trump would have been reelected if not for widespread voting fraud have cited this case as part of a broader pattern in battleground states, but the evidence suggests it didn't extend beyond small-town politics.
Attorney General’s Office investigation records obtained by the Associated Press through a public records request show that fewer than a dozen ballots could be linked to Fuentes, not enough to make a difference in all but the tightest local races.
The office of Attorney General Mark Brnovich, a Republican seeking his party’s U.S. Senate nomination, provided the records after delays of more than 15 months.
Fuentes and Juarez were seen with several mail-in envelopes outside a cultural center in San Luis on the day of the 2020 primary election, according to reports from investigators. The ballots were taken inside and dropped in a ballot box.
Fuentes was recorded on video by a write-in candidate who called the Yuma County sheriff.
An investigation was launched that day, and about 50 ballots checked for fingerprints, which were inconclusive. The investigation was taken over by the attorney general’s office within days, with investigators collaborating with sheriff’s deputies to interview voters, Fuentes and others. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/prison-sought-for-arizona-official-in-ballot-harvesting-case/75-95bbe764-1dbe-49fb-992e-f55a240a53cf | 2022-07-07T20:40:10 | 0 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/prison-sought-for-arizona-official-in-ballot-harvesting-case/75-95bbe764-1dbe-49fb-992e-f55a240a53cf |
TEXAS, USA — The Texas Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to travel safely in situations that involve 18-wheelers and other large vehicles because crashes involving these trucks can lead to serious injury or death.
Specific warnings have been given to motorists who drive in cities that produce a large amount of oil and gas, like the Permian Basin. These areas are highly trafficked by large vehicles, like 18-wheelers and resulted in more than 79,000 crashes in 2021.
There are a few easy steps drivers can take to avoid collisions and injuries. First, reduce speeds and pay attention. Last year, the leading reasons for fatalities and accidents on the road were a lack of speed control and driver inattention.
TxDOT also advises to give larger trucks more space. This means being aware of the blind spots by avoiding tailgating these bigger vehicles.
Some of these same cautions also apply to those areas that are considered part of Texas' energy sectors. In addition, drivers in these regions are encouraged to follow basic traffic rules, like obeying traffic signs, eliminating distractions by avoiding texting and talking while driving, and never driving under the influence.
All of this guidance comes as part of an ongoing campaign fronted by the TxDOT called, "Be Safe. Drive Smart." This accompanies a social media hashtag, "#EndTheStreakTX."
Both slogans are used to encourage people to utilize safe driving practices to end the steak of daily deaths. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/texas-department-of-transportation-advises-drivers-how-to-avoid-accidents-with-larger-trucks/513-e094a012-4eec-47c3-a92d-5a0e8c815487 | 2022-07-07T20:40:17 | 0 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/texas-department-of-transportation-advises-drivers-how-to-avoid-accidents-with-larger-trucks/513-e094a012-4eec-47c3-a92d-5a0e8c815487 |
ELK CREEK, Va. – A 17-year-old girl is dead and another is injured after a crash in Grayson County on Wednesday, the Virginia State Police said.
Authorities reported that the crash happened at 12:30 p.m. on Route 805 when a 2005 Chevrolet Suburban was traveling north when it came into a curve, crossed into the southbound lane, and struck a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt head-on.
The impact of the crash caused the Suburban to spin out and overturn in the roadway, and the Cobalt ran off the road, then struck a fence, according to police.
The driver of the Cobalt, a 17-year-old girl, died at the scene.
The driver of the Suburban, 90-year-old Helen Cook, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
Virginia State Police reported that both drivers were wearing seatbelts.
The crash remains under investigation and charges are pending. | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2022/07/07/17-year-old-girl-killed-another-injured-after-crash-in-grayson-county/ | 2022-07-07T20:44:35 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2022/07/07/17-year-old-girl-killed-another-injured-after-crash-in-grayson-county/ |
More than a dozen candidates are facing off in highly competitive Democratic and Republican primaries to become Maryland’s next governor, vying to fill the seat being vacated by term-limited Gov. Larry Hogan (R). With early voting beginning this week, candidates are struggling to capture voters’ attention ahead of the July 19 primary. Fresh polling shows most voters have not settled on a candidate, and many of those who’ve made a choice said it could change before Election Day. Democrats, who have lost the governor’s mansion more times than they’ve won in the past two decades, want to send the most viable candidate to take on the winner of the Republican primary, a heated battle between a Hogan-endorsed candidate and one backed by former president Donald Trump.
1. Tom Perez (D)
Tom Perez paced the banquet room in a suburban seafood restaurant like the trial lawyer he once was, building the case Maryland has been “punching below our weight” on the issues that matter to Democrats.
“Our democracy is on fire right now,” Perez, 60, said as about two dozen Democrats dined on crab cakes and listened as he campaigned to be the next governor. “The one thing we can’t do in this moment is cower in the corner. We have to stand up and fight.”
Perez covered topics with a mastery of detail, at turns dissecting the racial inequity in the state’s three-strikes law, worker protections against silica dust or the agricultural wisdom of growing hemp on the Eastern Shore.
He paused to politely order an IPA, then plowed back into the need for better job training in high schools and the cruel disproportionality of covid-19 deaths among the uninsured. By the time his beer arrived, Perez reached his main point: “We can fix all of these things.”
His sales pitch for governor — a position he’s eyed for years — straddles paradoxes: battle-tested yet idealistic, a candidate with national connections and local roots. He led the Democratic National Committee after Hillary Clinton’s bruising 2016 defeat and was President Barack Obama’s chief civil rights enforcer at the Department of Justice before becoming a Cabinet secretary in charge of the Labor Department. He advocated for immigrant rights, served on the Montgomery County Council and helped steer Maryland through the Great Recession as state labor secretary.
Still, Perez has not been on a Maryland ballot in 20 years — and never statewide. He’s struggled with name recognition in a crowded primary campaign that voters have largely ignored, in a blue state that twice elected a Republican governor in the last eight years.
And despite his deep DNC Rolodex, the party’s heavy hitters have not campaigned in Maryland to press the case for his primary victory — with the notable exception of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who is from Baltimore and has ties to the state.
Perez’s campaign bets that his workmanlike approach to “get stuff done” and decades of experience pulling the levers of government distinguishes him in the field of nine Democrats.
“I’m confident that when you make an informed choice,” he told the District 33 Democratic Club, “you’ll choose me.”
‘A dreamer and a doer’
Perez grew up in Buffalo, the youngest of five in a Catholic family led by political refugees who fled dictator Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic.
His mother worked at home wrangling the kids. His father was an Army physician. It was, by Perez’s telling, a “Leave-it-to-Beaver” type of neighborhood in a largely White, Rust Belt city where a job at the Bethlehem Steel plant meant a spot in the middle class. His family was “the only diversity” in town, he said.
In 1974, when Perez was 12, his father died of a heart attack. The trauma shaped him. It also fostered what he calls a “surrogate father” relationship with his best friend’s dad, a Teamster who introduced Perez to the power of labor unions, which today have lined up in force behind his bid.
As a high-schooler, Perez cut the lawn of a neighbor who was a Brown University alum and encouraged him to apply. Perez got in, and he worked on garbage trucks in the summer while securing an Ivy League education that now includes a joint degree from Harvard Law School and the John F. Kennedy School of Government.
After clerking for a federal judge in Colorado, he moved to Maryland in 1988 when his wife, lawyer Anne Marie Staudenmaier, got a job at Legal Aid in Frederick. Perez launched his first stint at the Justice Department as a deputy assistant attorney for civil rights. The couple eventually settled in the liberal D.C. suburb of Takoma Park 27 years ago and raised three children.
Perez keeps long-standing loyalties. He still roots for the Buffalo Bills. Every July he takes a trip with his tightknit group of law school buddies. He’s run three Boston marathons, rises early to exercise and avoids caffeine, aside from his afternoon can of Pepsi. He brought it with him to a recent interview at an outdoor restaurant in his adopted hometown.
Off the top of his head, he ticked off in essay form the state’s interlocking problems of crime, wage disparity, mistrust of government and insufficient public transit, affordable child care and education. (He separately discussed climate change and inflation.)
He guffawed at the idea the governorship could be a steppingstone to another political office for himself.
“My sincere hope after we succeed for eight years in Maryland is to able to be, hopefully, a good grandfather by that point,” he said.
Until then, he sees a unique moment to lead the state.
“We have an unbelievable opportunity right now to multitask because we’re never going to have this kind of money from the federal government again in my lifetime,” he said. “I also firmly believe that given the number of really serious challenges, we need a leader who’s both a dreamer and a doer.”
As he talked, passersby stopped to chat: the restaurant host who went to high school with his daughter, a former co-worker at the Democratic National Committee with her toddler in tow, a neighbor he first met working for U.S. senator Edward M. Kennedy in his 30s.
Perez’s campaign noticed voters often view his lengthy résumé one-dimensionally: as the labor guy, or the DNC guy that some of the Bernie Sanders’s wing still looks at askance. And he’s selling competence in a low-interest race while some competitors are selling inspirational slogans.
“What we’re trying to do now is make sure that people see the connective tissue of everything that I’ve done,” Perez said. “And that connective tissue is I have always taken on tough fights.”
‘Most pro-labor governor in the country’
Fights don’t always make friends.
At the end of 2016, Perez had been on the short list to be Hillary Clinton’s running mate, campaigning across the country as a bilingual surrogate skilled at connecting with working-class voters. He was considering a run to be Maryland’s governor, challenging popular incumbent Republican Gov. Larry Hogan in the 2018 contest (which Hogan won by nearly 12 percentage points).
Instead, Perez ran to be chair of the DNC — he notes at Obama’s request — as a progressive with ties to the establishment, a campaign aimed at healing the fractures and luring back Bernie Sanders voters.
In what was widely considered a thankless job, Perez drew criticism for diminishing power of the party’s superdelegates in the presidential nominating process, resulting in a vote of no-confidence in him from the Congressional Black Caucus. He wrangled the largest presidential primary field in history in 2020, setting debate rules that kept some candidates with little support or funding off the stage, prompting criticism. He also was tweaked by state party chairs over how the DNC handled Iowa Democratic Party’s inability to count the results in 2020 caucuses.
But Perez says in the way that matters, he was successful: when he took over, Republicans held the White House and both chambers of Congress, but when he left, Democrats were in control across the board.
Perez has taken up local officials’ offers to tour legislative districts, winning over some legislators he just met, such as Del. Robbyn T. Lewis (D-Baltimore City).
“In that half-day interaction, it became so obvious to me that Tom Perez is the right candidate,” said Lewis, who had invited all candidates to join her on such a trip and praised several others.
“It’s no disrespect to any of the other candidates,” she said. “We need a governor who knows how to govern.”
The sharpest criticism of Perez has come from Republicans.
When Obama nominated him for U.S. labor secretary, the late conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh likened him to socialist dictator Hugo Chávez. Senate Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) called him a “crusading ideologue.”
Perez has embraced the ideas of leaving no one behind and of being a crusader.
As Maryland’s labor secretary, he used his position to advocate for workers, pushing for the state’s “living wage law” that required government contractors to pay people enough to live on 40 hours a week — often higher than the state’s minimum wage. New regulations protected people from being misclassified as independent contractors, which had deprived them of benefits like unemployment insurance.
As the nation’s top civil rights enforcer from 2009 until 2013, Perez led the Department of Justice division that struck down voter ID laws, sued Arizona’s Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio over violating civil rights of Hispanics and launched a record number of investigations into police departments across the country.
While U.S. labor secretary, Perez pushed through a new overtime rule that nearly doubled the threshold of workers required to be paid overtime, extending extra pay to an estimated 4 million workers and drawing praise from labor unions. (A federal judge blocked the rule before it took effect under the Trump administration.)
Perez also mediated a strike of 40,000 Verizon workers, one many reasons Communications Workers of America President Christopher Shelton praised Perez during a recent gathering.
“If Tom Perez wins, he will be the most pro-labor governor in the country,” Shelton said.
— Erin Cox
2. Peter Franchot (D)
When Peter V.R. Franchot ran unsuccessfully for Congress more than three decades ago, many in Maryland’s Democratic Party viewed him as a brash outsider. All these years later, even as he runs for governor, that persona remains.
Franchot, 74, has bided his time, his ambition for higher office roiling under the surface over his 16 years as comptroller, frequently poking party leaders in the eye while cultivating his brand as an independently minded, though progressive, fiscal watchdog — and never missing an opportunity to boost his political name recognition.
He’s rushed into political fights to take the side of the everyman, advocating to restore functioning air conditioning to Baltimore City schools, for summers off from school through Labor Day and for small craft beer brewers in competition against big distributors. An avowed populist, Franchot says he likes to stand up for “the little guy,” especially when the opponent is a bigwig.
He’s not afraid to make enemies within his own party, as he did with Thomas V. Mike Miller (D) when Miller was president of the Senate. Or friends within the opposing party, as he did with Gov. Larry Hogan (R).
Franchot’s evolving political stances — which include moving from a progressive voice among state Democrats to allying himself with Hogan — have drawn criticism. He responds that inflexibility as situations change is no virtue.
What has remained constant through decades in public office is his penchant for showmanship. Franchot built name-recognition through gimmicks — crisscrossing the state to deliver awards he invented to businesses and community leaders and splashing his image across legally mandated newspaper advertisements listing the names of owners of unclaimed property.
He’d rather generate media coverage to capture public attention and move an issue (or promote himself, if you ask his detractors) from the outside than work levers of power as an insider.
True to his populist bent, Franchot has said he represents “the little fellers, not the Rockefellers,” though his own upbringing was one of affluence. He grew up in New England, the son of a corporate lawyer, and attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Mass., one of the nation’s most elite prep schools.
As a young man, Franchot left Amherst College to join the presidential campaign of Sen. Eugene McCarthy, lost his student deferment and was drafted in the Vietnam War. After two years of duty and then graduating from college, he worked for environmental and other causes, including the Ralph Nader-affiliated Vermont Public Interest Research Group.
Franchot then went to law school at Northeastern University in Boston, where he met his wife, Anne Maher, now a partner at a D.C. law firm. They have two children and three grandchildren. During the 1980s, Franchot spent six years working as an aide to Rep. Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.).
Franchot first ran for office in 1986 at the age of 38. In that race to become a state delegate, he recognized a barrier he has worked hard since to overcome. “When you’re in an 11-person race, name recognition is a problem,” he told The Washington Post then. He won.
The next year, he ran to become his district’s Democratic nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, and he won that too.
“He won it because the guy outworks, out-hustles, outtalks, and out-fundraises just about anyone,” David Weaver, his press secretary at the time, said in a recent interview. “He’s got an extraordinary reservoir of energy. If he’s going for something, he works at it.”
Franchot went on to run a spirited, though unsuccessful, general election campaign against the incumbent, Republican Rep. Constance A. Morella. He held frequent news conferences to attack her, at one point holding up a gas mask to criticize a vote she’d cast involving U.S. poison nerve gas weapons.
He then spent two decades in the General Assembly, advocating for gun control, abortion rights, increasing the minimum wage and other liberal causes. It was in 2002 that he began to think seriously about running for governor, according to Len Foxwell, a longtime former top aide. That year, Robert L. Ehrlich Jr., a Republican, won the governor’s race, and Foxwell said he encouraged Franchot to consider vying for the Democratic nomination to challenge Ehrlich the next time around.
Foxwell said Franchot was guided more by political expedience than any set of principles. He cited as an example Franchot’s pivot to oppose slot machines — after co-sponsoring efforts to legalize them in 1998 and 2001 — when Foxwell advised the stance would help him stand out in opposition to Ehrlich and appeal to Black voters and White progressives.
In 2003, Foxwell and Franchot put a line opposing slots into a speech Franchot was to deliver in Easton, a town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. One of Franchot’s first political excursions outside his Montgomery County district, the trip was akin to a small-state governor with presidential ambitions visiting Iowa, Foxwell said.
“We’d written a speech, and it had a number of progressive themes, and people are giving him tepid applause at the appropriate times,” Foxwell said. But when Franchot got to the part about opposing slots, “the room stood up and cheered.”
That evening, as they discussed the day at a pub, Franchot was animated, Foxwell said. “He said, ‘I’m going to go to all 24 counties of the state and fight slots with everything I have.’ ”
Franchot casts his opposition to slots differently, as an outgrowth of his affinity for facing bullies and taking up for the little guy, but acknowledges changing his position. “A lot of these issues are not necessarily popular issues that I step in on,” he said in a recent interview. “Slot machines — everybody wanted slot machines.”
He declined to comment on Foxwell’s account, and his campaign characterized it as a “personal attack.” The two had a falling out in 2020 after nearly two decades of working closely together, and Foxwell served as a consultant to the rival Democratic gubernatorial campaign of Rushern L. Baker III before he pulled out.
Franchot went on to advocate against slots with a sort of religious zeal, saying that “the devil is at the door” and slots opponents would “put the stake through the vampire’s heart.” At one point, he rounded up five gospel choirs for an Annapolis singalong.
He ultimately decided to run for comptroller and won an underdog bid for the Democratic nomination, promising to be “an independent voice and strong fiscal watchdog” and “a real Democrat” who would counter Ehrlich.
From the time he took office, Franchot took a broad approach to the role, which helps oversee state spending but is essentially the state tax collector, expanding his reach and carving out a more public profile than was traditional for the position. The day he was sworn in, Franchot made clear he would loudly oppose slots.
Miller, the Senate president, grumbled to reporters that day that Franchot would learn he was elected to serve as a “tax collector, not as a policymaker,” and Miller would say later that Franchot spent more time “running for governor” than acting as comptroller.
Franchot ultimately lost the fight against slots but may have helped himself in the process. The frequent publicity heightened his visibility, particularly among African Americans.
As 2014 approached, with Democrat Martin O’Malley term-limited from being governor again, Franchot was among several high-profile state Democrats who considered running. But he wasn’t considered a front-runner, and he ultimately decided against it. Instead he coasted through reelection for comptroller.
After Hogan, the Republican gubernatorial nominee, managed an upset win that year, he was quickly befriended by Franchot, with whom he shared many voters. They bonded over strolls along the Ocean City boardwalk and a mutual desire to curb state spending. Franchot dined at the governor’s mansion, something he’d never done with O’Malley.
When 2018 came around, as Hogan enjoyed 70 percent approval ratings and sought reelection, Franchot again shelved his ambition to occupy the governor’s mansion. He also declined to endorse the Democratic nominee, Ben Jealous, and said he wouldn’t vote in the race.
This year, finally, could be Franchot’s chance. He boasts that over his four successful races for comptroller, he has received the most votes of any statewide candidate in Maryland’s history. He has statewide name recognition, which analysts say gives him a sizable advantage. He and his running mate, Prince George’s County Council member Monique Anderson-Walker (D-District 8), started this year with more than $3 million in the bank and had $1.2 million in June, their campaign finance reports show.
Said Franchot: “We’re quietly confident we’re on a path to victory.”
— Steve Thompson
3. Wes Moore (D)
Oprah Winfrey’s voice cracked as she answered the question: What did she see in Wes Moore a decade ago that convinced her he’d make a great leader?
“What I saw was the same thing I was looking for when I was going through South Africa, building my school. … I was looking for in that space, girls who had it. And I knew it when I saw it,” she said. “It was hard to define to the teachers and the principals what that it thing was, but it’s a level of inner vibrational energy that comes straight out of the authenticity of one’s soul.”
Moore, 43, blushed as Winfrey talked, then he flashed his camera-ready smile.
That “it” factor and a well-rounded record (best-selling author, combat veteran, investment banker and former head of one of the country’s largest poverty-fighting organizations) helped propel Moore to a top-tier bid in a crowded contest for the Democratic nomination for governor.
U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), who recently joined a long list of supporters, said Moore and his running mate, former delegate Aruna Miller, command attention in an otherwise sleepy contest full of qualified candidates, inspiring “the young and old among us to believe again in things that are possible.”
On the trail, Moore often homes in on his own background and what he calls his guiding life principle — that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, that “no one is left behind.”
“As a state we’ve got to be more competitive, while being more equitable,” he said. “That’s not a binary conversation. … We’ve got to choose both.”
Fresh polls show the political newcomer toe to toe with established candidates such as Peter Franchot, a state comptroller who has held elected office almost as long as Moore has been alive, and Tom Perez, a former U.S. labor secretary who is entrenched in national party politics. Moore has consolidated support from the state’s heavy hitters, including U.S. House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer, state Senate President Bill Ferguson, House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones and Prince George’s County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks. He’s also banked more than $7 million over the last cycle, more than any other candidate in the race, and won one of the biggest and most coveted labor endorsements, from the 76,000-strong state teachers union.
But he also has baggage. Almost since the beginning of his run, Moore has been dogged by questions about the remarkable life story that launched him into public view.
A Rhodes scholar raised by a single mother, Moore has a résumé that includes time as a White House fellow and paratrooper in Afghanistan. And while the accomplishments are true, a few reported details surrounding his success are not.
He did not grow up on the tough streets of West Baltimore. He never won a Bronze Star. He’s not in the Maryland College Football Hall of Fame (which doesn’t exist).
Winfrey, whose advice he sought about running and who recently appeared at a virtual fundraiser to boost his campaign, asked Moore during the event about a widely circulated myth that he was born in Baltimore. (He was born in Takoma Park.) A decade ago, even Oprah introduced him incorrectly. And later, so did Stephen Colbert, Princeton University and a curriculum teaching his book to K-12 students, among others.
The origins come from the opening lines on the book jacket of his 2010 bestseller, “The Other Wes Moore”: “Two kids named Wes Moore were born blocks apart within a year of each other. Both grew up fatherless in similar Baltimore neighborhoods and had difficult childhoods; both hung out on street corners with their crews; both ran into trouble with the police.”
Moore said the error was made by his publisher, a mistake he asked it to correct. As articles and TV interviewers repeated the false details, Moore didn’t correct the record.
Instead private opposition research suggests that he let an up-from-the-bootstraps narrative overstate the adversity he encountered. Privately, Democrats who support his rivals say a Moore victory comes with ready-made opposition research that Republicans can easily sharpen into attacks on his integrity — and potentially cost the party the governor’s mansion.
I “didn’t see the need … to call every reporter or every producer out. … It wasn’t some thread where I was like, ‘Let me ride this out,’” Moore said in a recent interview, maintaining that the city helped shape him and that he has what it takes to succeed term-limited Gov. Larry Hogan (R).
His campaign punched back this spring with a criminal complaint against a rival campaign it alleges disseminated a political dossier claiming Moore lied about his past, an allegation he denies.
Moore and his supporters view him as a victim of a smear campaign that highlights microscopic differences in his public comments to destroy his character. They say the criticism is partly based on his campaign’s momentum but also lays bare how race permeates in political campaigns and how it shaped some people’s view of the contest.
When Hoyer, for example, granted Moore his high-profile endorsement this spring, the House majority leader faced questions about whether he thought Moore had embellished his story.
“I asked Wes about that,” Hoyer told reporters who asked about the Bronze Star. “And I am absolutely convinced that Wes has told the truth on all of these matters.”
Moore said if his rivals want to attack him, they can bring it on.
“I have nothing to exaggerate about my life,” he said.
Moore was 3 years old when his father died in front of him because he didn’t get the health care he needed for acute epiglottitis, Moore said in an interview. His widowed mother, an immigrant from Jamaica, moved him and his two sisters to the Bronx, where they lived with his grandparents, a minister and a longtime educator.
By 11 years old, Moore said he “felt handcuffs on his wrist,” after police detained him for spray-painting, and after years of being told to straighten up, he was sent off to military school by age 13. His mother had moved back to Maryland by then, and Moore was spending time in Baltimore, where he now lives with his wife, Dawn, and their two children. After graduating from Valley Forge Military College, he would go on to become the first Black Rhodes scholar from Johns Hopkins University, a White House fellow, an investment banker, a veteran and a chief executive of a large nonprofit.
He had flirted with the idea of running for office before, when several power players, including local elected officials, approached him about running for mayor of Baltimore. He opted against it, he said, because his children were too young. He jumped into the governor’s race with his wife, whom he has called his “secret weapon,” by his side. Dawn Moore has a long history in Maryland politics, having worked on gubernatorial campaigns for Kathleen Kennedy Townsend and Martin O’Malley and in the administration of then-Gov. Parris N. Glendening.
Moore acknowledges that there are candidates in the governor’s race with more political experience and greater name recognition than he has but said that doesn’t mean they are suited to lead in this moment.
Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman was one of the first elected officials to endorse Moore almost a year ago. He said he was looking for someone who could unite people across political divides and watched as Moore easily connected with business owners and workers alike.
“He can get the business community behind his agenda,” said Pittman, who said he is most concerned about economic disparities. “The fact that he worked on Wall Street and learned how investment decisions get made and he took that knowledge to the Robin Hood Foundation to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in fighting poverty effectively, to me, shows this is a guy who has taken the time to learn how our economy works, and he also has a real talent for politics.”
Moore said he and Miller, both children of immigrants, are the only ticket that has legislative, executive, military and nonprofit experience.
“People are looking for someone who has worked across sectors to get big things done,” he said. “Right now, people are not necessarily looking for the same people with the same ideas. They want us to be bold. They want Maryland to do big things.”
Among those big things, he said, are helping older residents stay in Maryland and addressing climate change and economic disparities.
Moore said he wants to work to fix the policies that have sent retirees packing to other states. Maryland also has to close the racial wealth gap, he said, because “it’s real and it’s growing. … This is a moment where we can really be thoughtful and close it, or we’re going to watch this thing explode in a way that we’re never going to be able to recover.”
Moore said he plans to bring all sectors together to address issues such as the environment, which has forced students to leave hot school buildings when temperatures soar, resulted in higher asthma rates in cities such as Baltimore and caused “once in a century” flooding every few years.
“We need the private sector, we need nonprofit organizations, we need philanthropy,” he said. “We need executive and legislative leadership. We need the people. And that’s the approach that I know that I’m going to take in terms of how we get this done on Day One.”
— Ovetta Wiggins, Erin Cox
4. John B. King Jr. (D)
Once a troubled teen expelled from high school, John B. King Jr. knows what it’s like to be scolded.
But at a recent gala with roughly 700 Democratic Party loyalists in the audience, King — a Harvard- and Yale-educated lawyer and former high school social studies teacher — was the one doing the reprimanding.
King, 47, took the stage to share his vision for Maryland as one of 10 candidates vying for the party’s gubernatorial nomination, and, in less than three minutes, blasted the party establishment for “not doing enough” to improve education outcomes, to help the uninsured and to address the climate crisis.
“We need to stop acting like the party of Hogan Democrats and Joe Manchin III Democrats who think that people who are struggling should just pull themselves up by their bootstraps, and start acting like the party of FDR Democrats … the party of Obama Democrats … and the party of Raskin Democrats,” he said, making a final reference to last year’s lead House impeachment manager, U.S. Rep. Jamie B. Raskin (D-Md.), who was a strong proponent of liberal issues when he served in the state General Assembly.
The former U.S. education secretary under President Barack Obama, who has held numerous political appointments, has spent years around politicians but has never been elected to public office. King supports a bold, progressive agenda that includes universal, affordable child care and ending the state’s reliance on fossil fuels, pledging 100 percent clean energy use in all Maryland public buildings by 2030. He calls health care a “human right,” and wants to create a program that provides health care for all, regardless of immigration status.
In the final weeks of the campaign he’s distinguished himself as the choice of a number of progressive organizations, including Sierra Club Maryland, Pro-Choice Maryland and Our Revolution Maryland.
King said he is modeling his campaign after Raskin, who “also faced millionaires and celebrities” in his competitive, crowded primary in 2016 to win the 8th congressional seat.
But, unlike King, Raskin, who served nearly a decade in the General Assembly, had name recognition and a legislative record that allowed him to quickly emerge as a front-runner in the primary. King is battling to be recognized as a top-tier candidate in his race, where others have raked in bigger endorsements and are sitting on heftier war chests.
King said he decided to launch his first political campaign after a career in public service because he saw the inequities exposed by the coronavirus pandemic and viewed it as a “New Deal moment” where the state could confront deeper systemic challenges.
“I really became convinced that the next governor is going to be uniquely positioned to make government a force for good in people’s lives and that’s always been my mission, you know, because of the role public school played in my life as a kid,” he said during a recent interview.
King was orphaned when he was 12 and spent his formative years bouncing from one relative’s home to another. King’s classrooms became his safe haven and his teachers, the only trusted adults in his life. His mother, a public school teacher, died of a heart attack when he was 8. His father, a lifelong educator who had been the first African American principal in Brooklyn, suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.
After his father died, King won a scholarship to an elite boarding school where he ran into trouble and ultimately was expelled. He settled in New Jersey with his aunt and uncle, who provided him stability and structure.
“As I think about public policy, I’m very conscious that I was lucky, you know, and I say to folks, my story is not about me being special. It’s about the special people and institutions that intervened in my life that made it possible for me to have the opportunities that I’ve had,” he said.
King, who received a doctorate in education administration from Columbia, worked as a high school social studies teacher, a middle school principal and founded a charter school in Boston before he became the top education official in New York state.
He faced fierce criticism in New York, battling parents over Common Core testing and teachers over evaluations. In 2015, a New York teacher sued King, then the former state commissioner, over the evaluation method, which sometimes factored in a school’s reading and math test scores into a teacher’s evaluation. The evaluation method, known as value-added measurement (or modeling) was embraced by the Obama administration. By the time the lawsuit was filed he was already working as an adviser at the U.S. Department of Education. He was eventually named secretary in Obama’s final year in office.
He founded Strong Future Maryland — a 501(c) (4) advocacy organization — in 2020, and it has pushed for progressive policies, including abolishing life sentences without parole for juveniles, emergency relief for renters, and collective bargaining for employees at public universities.
“John is one of the most thoughtful, committed public servants I know,” said Arne Duncan, who was King’s predecessor as education secretary. Duncan, who left his post in the Obama cabinet early, said he remembered the White House asking him for 10 names of candidates to fill his position. “I was thinking I could give you 20 names, but there’s only one person you should hire and it’s John,” he said.
Duncan described King as a “real easy going guy,” but said people shouldn’t underestimate him because of his mild-mannered nature.
“Sometimes people mistake that kindness for weakness, and there’s a backbone of steel there, and that was always true to Barack and that’s true to John,” Duncan said.
With education a top issue of voters, King says he is best suited to address “the kind of made up issue of critical race theory” Republicans could use as a lever to divide voters in November.
He made it the focus of his first ad, where he introduced himself to voters earlier this year. In it, he says the gaps in health, wealth and criminal justice in America are tied to the history of slavery, segregation and redlining. He shares his own story of having ancestors who were enslaved in a cabin less than 25 miles from his home in Montgomery County.
“It’s important to cover African American history, Latino history, Asian American history, the contributions of different communities to the country’s history,” King said. “It’s also important to tell the hard parts and to tell the story of Japanese-American internment, to share the times when we’ve slid backward as a society, I think, and there’s a direct line connection between the KKK and in the post-Civil War period after slavery ended and what happened in Buffalo. And so students need to understand that.”
— Ovetta Wiggins
5. Doug Gansler (D)
Doug Gansler quickly climbed the stone pathway leading to the front door of a home in Chevy Chase, just north of the D.C. border, ready to deliver a firm handshake and to-the-point message: “Hi, I’m Doug Gansler. I’m running for governor and I grew up a couple doors down.”
The former Maryland attorney general, who has spent 23 years in government service, wants another shot at the governor’s mansion after losing a primary election in 2014 in a bid that was derailed by two scandals. This year, he’s running on a moderate agenda that centers on fighting crime and protecting the environment — issues he said he’s uniquely qualified to address and hopes will set him apart in a crowded, nine-person Democratic primary.
“With crime exploding, and climate change being real, those are areas that I’m uniquely qualified to lead on and have led on,” Gansler said. “We’re the right team for this moment, given the issues of the day.”
With just over $1 million on hand as of June and weeks remaining until the primary, Gansler leans into his record as attorney general to distinguish himself as all Democratic candidates in this blue state that elected a Republican governor twice in eight years struggle to break through.
He said establishment Democrats in search of a moderate candidate with wide appeal for the general election nudged him to reenter the arena. Gansler agreed that he could be that candidate. The uphill battle will be getting the Democratic nomination in the crowded pool.
“I’m the only pro-business, pro-public safety, moderate Democrat in the field, but I work with progressives all the time on progressive issues,” Gansler said during a recent interview. “The question is, does the Democratic Party want to willingly commit political suicide, and do the same thing we’ve done in the last bunch of elections? We’ve lost three of the last five elections, the most Democratic state in the country.”
As Maryland attorney general from 2007 to 2015, Gansler conducted environmental audits to identify pollutants and help clean the Chesapeake Bay, expanded the prosecution of gangs and — before same-sex marriage became legal in Maryland — wrote an opinion that Maryland should recognize same-sex marriages conducted in other states and that state agencies should recognize same-sex married couples with the same rights.
When he competed with then-Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown and then-Del. Heather Mizeur for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 2014, Gansler was initially considered an early favorite. He ultimately lost to Brown after his campaign was marked by allegations that he ordered state troopers to speed while driving him to routine appointments and photos of him surfaced at a high school beach party where there appeared to be underage drinking occurring, which he said at the time he did not investigate because he was focused on checking in with his son. Gansler brushed off the incidents in a recent interview, refuting the state trooper allegations and noting the party occurred 10 years ago.
Confident that’s in the past, Gansler said he is feeling energized by this year’s campaign. He’s running with former Hyattsville Mayor Candace Bacchus Hollingsworth, who was elected in 2015 as the city’s youngest and first Black mayor and now works with Our Black Party, a national organization she co-founded to build the relationship between the Black community and the political system.
Gansler started his career in politics at 13 knocking on doors for Frank Mankiewicz, who was running for Congress. He first moved to Montgomery County from New Jersey when he was a kid for his father’s work as assistant secretary of defense, appointed by President Richard M. Nixon — an early government service influence. It was supposed to be a temporary move, but the Ganslers stuck around.
Gansler continued to work on campaigns throughout his time at Yale and until he graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law, when he then began clerking for the Maryland Court of Appeals. He then headed to D.C. to work for the U.S. attorney’s office.
While serving as Montgomery County state’s attorney, he garnered national attention for high-profile prosecutions like boxer Mike Tyson’s road-rage attack in Gaithersburg in 1998 and the Washington-area sniper shootings in 2002.
He said he was also proud of implementing drug courts, domestic violence dockets and community prosecution, in which prosecution is assigned by neighborhood rather than crime categories. If elected as governor, Gansler said he would like to bring all those initiative statewide.
In his first TV ad, released earlier last month, Gansler focused on his tough-on-crime approach. The spot opens with a scene of a carjacking, followed by Gansler appearing on the screen to discuss how he would keep Marylanders safe: hire 1,000 new officers trained in violence de-escalation, install 10,000 new streetlights and get guns off the street.
“A balanced approach to safety and justice,” he says at the end of the ad.
Vivek Chopra, who worked with Gansler for about five years as assistant Montgomery County state’s attorney, said he was a tough boss, but someone who cares deeply about serving others and creating an environment for good lawyers to excel. His experience and leadership make him the right candidate for governor, he said.
“You have to motivate law enforcement to do the right thing and also aggressively enforce the laws, and law enforcement feels abandoned by most Democratic politicians right now. For better or for worse, I think that’s the feeling,” Chopra said. “I think Doug can strike the right balance with justice support, because a lot of the critiques of law enforcement recently have been right and fair, and he gets it, he always has.”
“Doug can be glib, he’s social,” Chopra said, “but, Doug really cares.”
Outside of politics, Gansler enjoys playing lacrosse — he started Charm City Youth Lacrosse League to bring the sport to underserved communities in Baltimore — and reading — he started a book club in 1989 that’s still running today.
On a recent Friday afternoon, beading sweat in temperatures reaching the high 90s, Gansler addressed a small group of volunteers that would be helping knocking on doors and handing out fliers in his childhood neighborhood.
“If no one answers, just leave it,” Gansler said about the fliers. “They’ll remember we came and no one else did.”
— Karina Elwood
6. Kelly M. Schulz (R)
Kelly M. Schulz, 53, had just started her speech when the topic of her former boss, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R), came up.
“You know, back in 2015, when Governor Hogan asked me —,” she paused. “Thank you, Governor Hogan,” she said, smiling as she bowed to an imaginary Hogan figure. Gathered in front of Schulz at a brewery in Ellicott City one recent evening, several dozen Republicans cheered.
In her bid to become Maryland’s next GOP governor, Schulz has actively sought to tie herself to Hogan, an uncharacteristically popular Republican in a widely Democratic state. She has many of the tools needed to position herself as a Hogan’s protege, including his full-throated endorsement and a seven-year run as a top-ranking secretary in his Cabinet.
But whether she can walk the same tightrope that Hogan did over two terms — winning over Independents and moderate Democrats without alienating the state’s Republican base — remains to be seen, observers say.
The only woman in Maryland’s crowded gubernatorial race, she has to navigate the rightward pull of her own party while staving off attacks from a bevy of Democratic challengers eager to flip the governor’s seat. The coalition she needs to win the primary in July and then the general election in November, experts say, could be buoyed by the broad frustration toward inflation, but threatened by the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade, which could push Independents away from the GOP while energizing liberal voters.
Democratic strategists have already started to zero in on Schulz’s voting record as a Frederick County delegate in the Maryland House, where she pushed several times to limit abortion, including with an amendment in 2012 that would have withheld state funds from going toward abortion providers. (The amendment failed.) Schulz has said more recently that while she is “personally pro-life,” she would not change any laws regarding abortion if she were elected governor.
“Hogan was elected before the peak of many of our current ‘culture war’ discussions,” said Chryl Laird, an assistant professor of government and politics at the University of Maryland, citing the campaigns that Republicans have launched in recent years against “critical race theory” and LGTBQ rights. “[Schulz] right now is in a different space.”
While Hogan has been an outspoken Trump critic, Schulz cannot afford at this point to sideline supporters of the former president, Laird said. In the primary, where turnout tends to be higher among more ideological voters, she faces three opponents, including Maryland Del. Daniel L. Cox (R), a Trump-endorsed, staunchly conservative lawmaker also from Frederick. But drawing herself too close to the former president also has its hitches: In the 2020 general election, Marylanders voted 2-to-1 against Trump.
“There are not enough Republicans in Maryland for us to be different types,” said Loretta Shields, co-chair of Women for Kelly, which hosted the campaign event for Schulz in Howard. Shields said she supports both Trump and Hogan but notes that neither is on the ticket for Maryland governor. She sees Schulz as the only Republican candidate who can capture both their followers and avert one-party rule in Maryland, where Democrats control both the legislature and the attorney general’s office.
Diana Waterman, former chair of the Maryland Republican Party, put it more bluntly to the Republicans gathered at the Howard event: “If that other person,” she said, seemingly referring to Cox, “If they are our nominee, we have given it to the Democrats.”
Seen as part of the Republican establishment in Maryland, Schulz served as an aide in the Maryland House Republican Caucus and an appointee to the Environmental Protection Agency under President George W. Bush before running for the Maryland House in 2010. After beating an incumbent in the primary by seven votes, she was appointed to the Economic Matters Committee in the House, where colleagues say she advocated for small businesses.
“I enjoyed working with Kelly,” said Dereck E. Davis, Maryland’s state treasurer and a former Democratic House delegate who chaired the Economic Matters Committee when Schulz was a member. “We didn’t always agree on what was an impediment to business versus what was prudent regulation, but she respected the fact that not everybody shared her viewpoint.”
When Hogan was elected, he tapped Schulz to serve as his labor secretary and then as his commerce secretary, positions in which she was able to continue working with elected officials from both parties. During the pandemic, when Hogan announced relief for businesses affected by shutdowns or when he unveiled the state’s economic recovery plan, Schulz was standing by his side.
Melissa Deckman, chair of the political science department at Washington College, said it’s a savvy strategy for Schulz to pitch herself as a continuation of Hogan, who is leaving office with a historic budget surplus and sky-high approval ratings. But whether this will be enough to win over voters is unclear.
“How far is his reach? Is he the unique personality? Or can what he represents extend to a member of his Cabinet?” Deckman asked, referring to Hogan. “These are questions we’ll have to see play out.”
Schulz has largely tried so far to stay above the fray of the fissures that have divided her party on a national level, rarely even mentioning Cox by name. Instead, she has sought to draw attention to issues with more bipartisan support, promising to expand school choice, repeal a state tax that pegs gas taxes to inflation and “treat criminals like criminals.” She has emphasized her track record of working with lawmakers across party lines and highlighted aspects of her personal identity in ways that hearken to the GOP’s “traditional values,” Laird observed, from the centrality of the nuclear family to individual choice.
In her first television ad, Schulz unveiled a “parental bill of rights” promising to keep “schools open” and “masks off.”
“She’s centered her identity as a mother and a parent and a caregiver before even saying she’s a politician,” Laird said. “She’s trying to get to the voter directly and say, ‘I am you.’ ”
Born in Michigan, Schulz moved to Maryland after dropping out of college to raise her first child at the age of 19. She worked as a waitress and a bartender before eventually finishing her degree at Hood College when she was 37. If elected, she who would be Maryland’s first female governor.
“Because I was that young mom and wife, because I was that state delegate, but most of all, because I was that waitress who busted her ass to support her family, I’m uniquely qualified to be your next governor,” Schulz said at the Howard event.
Del. Kathy Szeliga (R-Baltimore County), the outgoing minority whip in the House, said she’s been glad to see Schulz rise in rank over the last decade even though she has never found Schulz to be “politically ambitious.”
“She represents me, and she represents other women,” said Szeliga, who was elected into the House the same year as Schulz.
This perspective is unlikely to resonate with liberal women, but could be potent among Independents and moderate Democrats, said Valerie Ervin, a Montgomery Democrat who ran for governor in 2018.
“Kelly is a woman like so many in Maryland who had to work her entire life,” Ervin said. “And she’s coming into the statewide gubernatorial race at the right moment — everyone is wondering where the women are.”
— Rebecca Tan
7. Daniel L. Cox (R)
Conservative Republican Del. Daniel L. Cox vigorously fought against the certification of President Biden’s 2020 victory and Maryland’s coronavirus mitigation measures.
He launched a failed attempt to impeach Republican Gov. Larry Hogan, accusing him of malfeasance in office, theft of “the people’s liberty and property” and “deprivation of the religious liberties of the people.”
As rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, he called Vice President Mike Pence “a traitor” in a tweet he then deleted — later expressing regret for his choice of words.
Now, as Cox seeks the Republican nomination for Maryland governor, he is locked in a tight battle with Hogan-endorsed Kelly M. Schulz, the former state commerce secretary, in a race shaped by deep divisions across the country between members of the GOP establishment and supporters of former president Trump.
A recent Goucher College poll, conducted in partnership with the Baltimore Banner and WYPR-88.1, found Cox and Schulz in a statistical dead heat, with Cox capturing 25 percent of the vote and Schulz 22 percent. A majority of likely Republican voters were undecided.
“It may be Maryland, but Republicans are Republicans, and Trump is incredibly popular among Republicans, and he’s immensely popular among the base of the party,” Todd Eberly, a professor of political science at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, said of the Republican primary. “Cox is the perfect candidate for an election that is all about the base, and when most folks aren’t paying attention.”
Cox, 47, campaigns on hard-right stances he hopes will lift him to a win as they did Doug Mastriano in the Pennsylvania gubernatorial primary: dramatically restricting abortions, banning mask and vaccine mandates for the coronavirus, fighting against transgender rights and demanding a federal audit of the 2020 elections.
Similar to Mastriano, Cox chartered buses for the Trump rally near the White House that preceded the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. They both attended a conference in Gettysburg, Pa., this spring that promoted QAnon and baseless claims about the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. According to published reports, Cox was joined there by Liz Harrington, a spokeswoman for Trump, and former Trump campaign attorney Jenna Ellis.
Schulz’s campaign has labeled Cox “unstable” and “unfit for office.” Last year, Hogan, her former boss, called him a “QAnon whack job.” Meanwhile in a recent phone call to rally Cox supporters, Trump called Cox “a highly respected lawyer who is tough and smart … Dan is MAGA all the way. Unlike his opponent named Kelly Schulz who along with Larry Hogan, bad news.”
Cox, who did not respond to calls seeking comment, told the hundreds — including Mastriano and former U.S. Senate candidate Alan Keyes — gathered at a Carroll County farm in sweltering summer heat recently that his campaign, run by one of his daughters, was outpacing the deep-pocketed Schulz campaign.
“We are running ahead in the polls, we are strong, we are organized. … We are getting out the message,” he said.
He asked his supporters a string of questions based on his platform. Who among them believed, like his opponent, he asked, that the events of Jan. 6 were an insurrection and that Trump was responsible for it? The crowd booed. Who thought providing taxpayer-funded abortions to trafficked women from other states and countries was acceptable? The crowd yelled, “No!”
“We’re going to defund the taxpayer-paid abortions,” Cox said to cheers.
Cox said he also wants to see changes in the state’s gun-control laws, including gun-permit laws, a red-flag law that allows the seizure of guns from people deemed to be a danger to themselves or others, and a ghost-gun law that prohibits the assembly of homemade firearms.
“I intend to change all of that,” the one-term delegate from Frederick County said. “These are our freedoms; these are our rights. They can’t take them from us. This is how we protect ourselves. With the riots that have happened, we should have something to defend our families with.”
He called for his supporters to donate to his campaign (in recent filings he had $188,000 to spend compared with Schulz’s $784,900), and to bump up their outreach efforts to “crush the liberal wing of the party.”
Cox, who was first elected to the Maryland General Assembly in 2018, is one of the most conservative figures in the state legislature.
In the past year, he was the prime sponsor on bills seeking to restrict abortions; limit the governor’s authority in states of emergency; and require that schools provide parents information about the health and well-being of their children. Child welfare advocates argued that schools’ reporting on children could in some instances — including in child-abuse cases — expose children to additional harm.
Cox graduated from Regent University School of Law in 2006, according to his legislative biography. He was born in Washington, D.C., and attended Walkersville Christian Family Schools, where he would later become a teacher. He has also worked as a real estate agent but now runs his own law firm, which sued Hogan over coronavirus restrictions and stay-at-home orders during the pandemic. He also represented a Harford County man who sued local officials for arresting him at a polling place for not wearing a mask during the pandemic.
“I’m the only candidate that’s willing to give people their freedom back,” Cox told the rally, calling the 2020 election a fraud and planting a “stop the steal” seed about the upcoming Maryland election. “I’m an ‘America First’ Republican. We’re going to win.”
— Ovetta Wiggins
8. Other candidates
At one point during the 2022 primary, there were 15 candidates lined up to fill the seat being vacated by term-limited Gov. Larry Hogan (R).
Eleven Democrats and four Republicans.
As the race enters its final weeks, the field has largely remained unchanged. Laura Neuman (D), a former Anne Arundel County executive, bowed out in April. Former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III (D) paused his bid in June, but he will remain on the ballot.
Among those vying for the Democratic nomination are former U.S. labor secretary Tom Perez, best-selling author and former nonprofit chief Wes Moore, state Comptroller Peter Franchot, former attorney general Doug Gansler and former U.S. education secretary John B. King Jr.
The Republican side includes Hogan mentee and former state commerce secretary Kelly Schulz and Trump-endorsed state delegate Dan Cox.
The other candidates, who have little chance of winning their party’s nomination, according to polls, include a socialist who once ran for president, a disbarred attorney and a millennial who wants to be the youngest person in the country to hold the position.
Here are the candidates rounding out the Democratic field:
Jon Baron, 59, is a former government employee and nonprofit executive who founded a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that promotes evidence-based solutions to government problems.
Baron mounted his first run for elected office last year and has pumped $1.7 million of his own money into his campaign. In his first TV ad, Baron and his candidate for lieutenant governor, Natalie Williams, can be seen pedaling on a tandem bike going nowhere, illustrating the lack of progress, he said, the state has made on education and the economy.
A lead idea on his agenda is pairing first- and second-graders with retirees and recent college graduates for one-on-one tutoring, noting studies that have proven its success.
Baron, who lives in Montgomery County, received his bachelor’s degree from Rice University, a master’s from Princeton University and a law degree from Yale Law School.
Ashwani Jain opens each candidate forum quickly rattling off details about himself: “I use he/him pronouns. I’m a 32-year old cancer survivor who is also the son of immigrants. I’m a product of Maryland public schools.”
“I’m running for governor to make our politics more inclusive and accessible,” said Jain during a recent forum. He said during his cancer battle as a teenager “many people were making decisions for me, instead of making them with me.”
As the youngest candidate in the race, Jain also has the shortest resume. According to his LinkedIn profile, he spent about a year as an outreach and recruitment assistant working at the White House, a year working for the U.S. Department of Housing as a liaison to the White House and another year in two other federal jobs. He is now working as a local program director for the National Kidney Foundation.
Jain is one of 33 Democrats who competed for four at-large seats on the Montgomery County Council in 2018. He finished eighth in the race.
Jerome M. Segal, 78, a philosopher, progressive activist and former candidate for U.S. Senate, ran for president in 2020 as the nominee of the Bread and Roses Party, a socialist party that he created.
Segal founded the party, he said, because he wants third parties to be more active on the national stage. He collected more than 15,000 signatures on a petition to get the state to officially recognize the party.
Last year, he disbanded the party, which had a little over 1,000 registered voters in Maryland, and launched a bid for the Democratic nomination for the state’s top job.
Segal’s agenda includes a legal guarantee of 32 hours of paid employment, allowing a four-day workweek, and free education from pre-K through college.
Ralph W. Jaffe, 80, is a retired teacher who has run several times for governor or U.S. Senate since 1992. Jaffe has said his campaigns are to push different ideas and is used as a “teaching device” for his students.
In 2018, Jaffe’s wife, Freda, ran as his running mate. They picked up 1.6 percent of the vote.
In an interview with WTOP, Jaffe has criticized the Blueprint for Education, a multibillion-dollar educational plan to improve outcomes in Maryland schools, calling it “a joke,” and suggested media outlets hold telethons to pay for more police officers.
Rushern L. Baker III, 63, drew on his decades of public service in Maryland to launch his second bid for governor, hoping grass-roots support would yield momentum even as he took the risk of relying on the state’s public financing system.
The choice limited his campaign to in-state contributions of up to $250 each as several front-runners amassed war chests exceeding $1 million, expanding the reach of their message to voters who remain largely undecided as the primary looms.
Baker, who largely receded from public life after his 2018 primary loss, remains on the ballot because election law left him little option. As a publicly financed candidate, Baker would have been forced to repay the money the state poured into his campaign if he formally withdrew from the race.
Here is the balance of the Republican contest:
Robin Ficker, 79, is an outspoken and colorful perennial candidate who has run for various local and state offices for a half-century. In 1972, he ran for Congress. He launched six campaigns within the next decade. In 1978, he was elected to serve in the Maryland House of Delegates. Three months later he made another run for Congress.
Ficker was disbarred from practicing law this year under a ruling from the state’s top court after a complaint initiated by the Attorney Grievance Commission. At the time, Ficker, who has a long history of professional misconduct complaints with the bar counsel, said the action was a “political decision … it’s judges and lawyers complaining.”
The disbarment stems from a case in which Ficker failed to appear for trial and made other missteps.
In the governor’s race, Ficker’s top item on his agenda is cutting the state’s sales tax by 2 cents. The current rate is 6 cents for every dollar spent, with exceptions on certain items. Ficker has loaned his campaign $1.2 million and according to the most recent filings, has $327,000 on hand, which puts him behind Schulz in GOP fundraising.
Joe Werner, 62, an attorney, is making his first bid for public office as a Republican.
He has run three times for local and state races as a Democrat. In 2014, he ran for Harford County executive. In 2016 he ran to unseat incumbent U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md) in the first congressional district. Harris crushed Werner by a 2-to-1 margin, with 67 percent of the vote. In 2018, he ran for a Democratic seat in the Maryland House of Delegates.
Asked about his party switch, Warner said in an interview with Fox45 that he has always been a moderate who is “now more solidly” against abortion. He said he also supports gun rights. “Maryland is becoming more and more like California, you’re losing your rights and you’ve got more and more government coming in,” he said.
— Ovetta Wiggins | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/2022/06/30/eed08cf9-5ccb-4534-9a3a-6a0f4775462b_story.html | 2022-07-07T20:47:52 | 0 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/2022/06/30/eed08cf9-5ccb-4534-9a3a-6a0f4775462b_story.html |
MILLVILLE, Pa. — Terry Rider and Ronald Welliver are lifelong residents of Millville. They both collect memorabilia from the borough's history and started displaying it about ten years ago.
"This year, since it's the 250th anniversary of Millville, I just thought maybe we'd do something a little bigger," Rider said.
The Millville Foundation put out a call for additional items to display at this week's Millville Community Fire Company Carnival. The community responded in a big way by loaning or donating items to display for the borough's anniversary.
"There's a child's wagon in there. The gentleman who owned that brought it in and said he's in his 80s, and his grandfather bought it for his dad in 1902," said Rider.
Going inside this tent is like stepping back into Millville's history. You'll see everything from photographs to calendars to baseball uniforms.
"I see them reaching over, looking down there, seeing if they were on the roster," Welliver said.
"All the yearbooks, a 1929 yearbook, all the way up to about '73, I think we quit," Rider said.
Rider and Welliver tell Newswatch 16 that the items are bringing back memories for a lot of people.
"Some of the comments I hear from people I don't know and people that I do know, I think overall they're really happy this came about," Welliver added.
The memorabilia tent is free to look at and will be open to view through Friday evening at the Millville carnival grounds.
Check out WNEP’s YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/columbia-county/a-trip-through-millvilles-history-fire-company-carnival-memorabilia-250th-anniversary-celebration/523-262a58e3-48d7-4b1f-b095-b5d1eb30c867 | 2022-07-07T20:56:29 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/columbia-county/a-trip-through-millvilles-history-fire-company-carnival-memorabilia-250th-anniversary-celebration/523-262a58e3-48d7-4b1f-b095-b5d1eb30c867 |
EDWARDSVILLE, Pa. — Police in Luzerne County are still searching for answers after an apparent stabbing in Edwardsville overnight.
Emergency officials tell us officers were called to Plymouth Street around 3 a.m.
It's unknown how many people were hurt.
Investigators say they are looking for two people after that stabbing.
See news happening? Text our Newstip Hotline. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/luzerne-county/stabbing-reported-in-luzerne-county-edwardsville-plymouth-street/523-78029da9-4db5-49b1-b5c9-91316620dc93 | 2022-07-07T20:56:35 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/luzerne-county/stabbing-reported-in-luzerne-county-edwardsville-plymouth-street/523-78029da9-4db5-49b1-b5c9-91316620dc93 |
COOLBAUGH TOWNSHIP, PA — Every Thursday for the past 10 years, Feeding Families Ministry in Coolbaugh Township feeds more than 200 families.
"We help them with food and everything that they need. And we do it without condition or judgment," Diane Tayburn said.
Tayburn is the owner and founder of the food pantry. She said recently, with higher gas prices and inflation, she noticed an increased need for services.
"We've had a greater number of people showing up for food. Kids are home from school for the summer, so people are in need of more food. And with that, we have more pickups," Tayburn said. "Our trucks are on the road seven days a week."
Not only is the food pantry seeing an increase in the clients they serve, but now they're seeing a decrease in the amount of volunteers. And that's why they're putting out a call for help.
"It makes it a lot tougher. We actually, two weeks ago, had to close a day because we didn't have the staff to do it. I don't know if people can't afford the gas to come out or make choices of where they go with their gas, but that's been a problem," Tayburn said.
She said she needs more volunteers and can work with anyone's schedule, as long as they are consistent and reliable.
"It would be, you know, flexible. Maybe once a week for five or six hours, twice a week. We have opportunities twice a month. There's a whole bunch of opportunities for different things that are going on," Tayburn said.
Tayburn said she hopes she never has to close her doors to those in need again. For more information, click here.
See news happening? Text our Newstip Hotline. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/monroe-county-food-pantry-looks-for-volunteers-coolbaugh-township-tobyhanna-pennsylvania-feeding-families-ministry/523-5972f36d-cb2a-44fc-9583-5f5a8eb6f872 | 2022-07-07T20:56:41 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/monroe-county-food-pantry-looks-for-volunteers-coolbaugh-township-tobyhanna-pennsylvania-feeding-families-ministry/523-5972f36d-cb2a-44fc-9583-5f5a8eb6f872 |
LONG POND, Pa. — While driving a UTV at Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours in Tunkhannock Township, near Long Pond, can be a lot of fun, owner Jon Berry says it costs a lot to run one.
"Our most expensive piece of the puzzle is the acquisition of the vehicles. The next is keeping them fueled to run our tours," said Berry, the president and owner of Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours.
Berry says his entire business runs on gas and higher prices are impacting both sides of his business.
"We've seen about a 25 percent increase in our fuel prices. Fuel prices are impacting guest travel, so we've also seen a bit of reduction in our revenue because there is a little bit less travel," Berry said.
But despite the price spikes in gasoline, the company hasn't raised its prices.
"Especially in tumultuous times, it's important for people to get outside with friends and family and enjoy some experiences," said Berry. "We didn't want to raise our price, continuing to make this an affordable activity for people to do."
The owner says he's hoping to ride out gas prices so he doesn't have to raise his own for customers.
"It's tough but were just trying to do our part too, you know, provide outdoor experiences for our guests, you know, and we'll continue to do that as long as we can, and hopefully, we're going to see prices come back down, and then we won't have to be in a spot where we have to be moving our prices around all the time," Berry said.
The owner says only time will tell when gas prices drop, but he hopes it happens.
Check gas prices near you with the WNEP Gas Tracker.
Check out WNEP’s YouTube channel. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/pocono-utv-tours-keep-rolling-despite-high-gas-prices-gasolin-pocono-outdoor-adventure-long-pond/523-247c9e78-2632-4ce5-b7ca-ffc8034ab11e | 2022-07-07T20:56:47 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/monroe-county/pocono-utv-tours-keep-rolling-despite-high-gas-prices-gasolin-pocono-outdoor-adventure-long-pond/523-247c9e78-2632-4ce5-b7ca-ffc8034ab11e |
PINE GROVE, Pa. — Towa, a two-and-a-half-year-old wolf hybrid, is being taken care of at Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA near Pine Grove. But the shelter manager Shannon Shuttlesworth didn't know Towa's breed when her owner gave her up in May.
"We don't normally come across a wolf or a wolf-dog. And I know they're illegal in PA. If a dog has 10% or more wolf in their blood or in their DNA, they are illegal without a special permit," Shuttlesworth said.
After a DNA test, the shelter learned Towa is at least 40% wolf, making this the first time the shelter has taken care of a wolf hybrid. It's had to make special accommodations with Towa's cage and diet.
"They have more severe anxiety. They require more stimulation, more exercise than any normal dog. And with the anxiety, they'll destroy your house. If they're not stimulated properly physically or mentally, that's just a recipe for disaster," Shuttlesworth said.
Before coming to the SPCA, Towa had three owners. All of them struggled to take care of her because of her wolf tendencies.
"They couldn't handle her. She was always getting out, she was breaking windows, constantly getting out, and it's a lot. They don't want to take care of her and it's too much for them to handle," Shuttlesworth said.
The workers at the Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA said you have to be careful to not treat a wolf hybrid like a typical dog.
"Not just for us, but for everyone else, this is a learning opportunity. Don't just get a dog for the way it looks. Educate yourself and read up on what you're getting yourself into. Because unfortunately, Towa is the one who is the one, I don't want to say suffered from, but at the same time, if it wasn't for us, where would she be?" Rachel Bainbridge, Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA, said.
In a couple of weeks, Towa will be going to the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania in Lititz where she will be joining a pack of rescue dogs just like her.
See more pets and animal stories on WNEP's YouTube playlist. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/schuylkill-county/schuylkill-county-shelter-takes-in-a-dog-finds-out-its-a-wolf-hybrid-ruth-steinert-memorial-spca-pine-grove/523-6a742fd2-3b2a-476f-ba60-16fe46988982 | 2022-07-07T20:56:53 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/schuylkill-county/schuylkill-county-shelter-takes-in-a-dog-finds-out-its-a-wolf-hybrid-ruth-steinert-memorial-spca-pine-grove/523-6a742fd2-3b2a-476f-ba60-16fe46988982 |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Starting up a business in the pandemic was rough for many, but one Portland woman kept growing hers and put a stimulus check to good use.
Eyes are one of the first things people notice and eyelash extensions can make a huge difference.
Amantha Hood started her lash business out of her living room in 2019 after graduating from Linfield University with a marketing degree and then getting an esthetician license. She used a stimulus check during the pandemic to grow her business and that led to her opening up Lash Lab PDX, a 15-square foot salon in North Portland.
“A lot of people were on camera doing Zoom calls or what not they wanted to look good as far as those virtual meetings,” said Hood.
But what’s really helped Hood’s business take off is the wholesale component — and training sessions.
In the past year, she’s trained 70 future lash artists and used her marketing degree to help them with the business side. She said she is the first black-owned lash salon in Portland.
“When you are black there are other elements that I’ve experienced, too,” said Hood. “From being able to find a space, to getting loans, to start up your business to be able to get to that point to expand. There are a lot of elements that go into it that make it a little harder as a black business owner and entrepreneur, but we get through it.”
Those interested in lash extensions or a career in the lash industry can visit Lash Lab PDX here. | https://www.koin.com/local/portland-woman-uses-stimulus-check-to-grow-lash-business/ | 2022-07-07T20:59:10 | 1 | https://www.koin.com/local/portland-woman-uses-stimulus-check-to-grow-lash-business/ |
BAY COUNTY, Mich. (WJRT) - Police confirm that a motorcyclist died three days after a high-speed crash along I-75 in Bay County.
Michigan State Police say the motorcyclist died at an area hospital Thursday morning from injuries sustained in an Independence Day crash off the Linwood Road exit ramp from southbound I-75.
Investigators say several motorists on I-75 called 911 to report the motorcyclist riding recklessly at high speeds and passing other vehicles on the shoulder around 10:30 a.m.
Police tried to catch up with the motorcycle for a traffic stop, but they were unsuccessful.
Investigators say the motorcyclist got off the freeway at the Linwood Road exit and failed to negotiate a curve on the ramp. The motorcycle went off the ramp and down an embankment.
A medical helicopter airlifted the motorcyclist from the scene to a trauma center, where he was pronounced dead.
The man's family created a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral expenses. | https://www.abc12.com/news/local/motorcyclist-dies-3-days-after-high-speed-crash-on-i-75/article_fd236aee-fe11-11ec-a358-dbf011a26c02.html | 2022-07-07T21:01:36 | 0 | https://www.abc12.com/news/local/motorcyclist-dies-3-days-after-high-speed-crash-on-i-75/article_fd236aee-fe11-11ec-a358-dbf011a26c02.html |
CLAIRTON, Pa. — An air quality advocacy group is raising concerns over a power outage at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works plant reported on Monday.
The outage was reported around 5:30 a.m., according to the Allegheny County Health Department, and “required the flaring of coke oven gases from the stacks and batteries.” Power was restored later in the day.
In a statement on Monday, ACHD reported that “area monitors have not indicated any adverse conditions since the event and it is believed that the power outage will either not affect or only minimally affect plant emission.” The case remained the same on Tuesday, according to an updated statement.
A spokesperson for U.S. Steel corroborated that, stating, “Flaring gas was necessary and required by our permit to prevent raw coke oven emissions from being vented into the atmosphere. There have been no recorded exceedances at area ambient monitors.”
Residents, however, believe their health was adversely impacted.
Debbie Gecan told Channel 11 she spent Independence Day with a migraine.
“You could smell it. It comes up here, and the odor is very bad, like rotten eggs,” she said. “I had to close all my windows. It was horrible.”
Other residents apparently reported feeling unwell to officials with the Breathe Project, which sent us this video of the flaring gas.
“If Hollywood were looking to shoot a scene entitled ‘Sunrise Over Mordor,’ they would have trouble replicating the horror depicted during sunrise over Clairton today, July 4, 2022, Independence Day,” said Matthew Mehalik, Executive Director.
Mehalik told Channel 11 that the Mon Valley’s airshed on Monday “peaked out at the No. 2 worst airshed in the country around 10:30 a.m.”
And yet levels were indeed beneath the legal threshold in which a violation is triggered. Mehalik believes that needs to change.
“What people need to know is those legal thresholds are based off of standards that were set over a decade ago, and there is ample evidence there are harms that occur at levels below that threshold,” he said. “We find it concerning that a public health entity would not be issuing an alarm.”
According to the county: “for the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) 24-hour standard, yesterday’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was moderate, between 60-84 for all monitors. Ozone was good to moderate, between 50-67 for all monitors. There is no indication we experienced ‘dangerous and unhealthy levels of pollution’, which would be an AQI above 151 for the 24-hour standard.”
Mehalik, however, said the AQI was “in excess of 130″ during the peak 10:30 a.m. time.
Gecan, meanwhile, told us she felt better on Tuesday and has learned to live with the plant’s emissions.
“I’m tired of it, but I grew up with this mill. My dad worked there. My brother worked there. ... I’ve lived here over 64 years,” she said. “You have to put up with it or move. There’s nothing you can do. We can’t shut the mill down. We shut the mill down, we’re gonna be a ghost town. We’re already half ghost town.”
The outage comes not long after U.S. Steel paid millions of dollars in fines related to alleged violations. The company has appealed in the past.
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BRISTOL (Tenn./Va.) – The feeling of excitement is palpable as one walks down State Street. Small businesses prepare for the largest influx of customers since before the pandemic.
Every kind of small local business stands to benefit from the additional feet on the street following the grand opening of the Bristol Casino slated for Friday afternoon.
“I’m kind of like the kid on vacation who goes ‘mom, are we there yet? Are we there yet?’ Well, it’s time, we’re there now, so we are so excited!” said Karen Hester, The Southern Churn owner.
She has already reaped the benefits of the casino by partnering with Hard Rock to sell her fudge in Hard Rock shops across the nation and on Friday, it will be available at the Bristol Casino’s “Rock Shop.”
“We’re so excited that opening day is tomorrow, we can hardly wait! We’ve already delivered our shipment of fudge over – and our other goodies we sell them – so the shelves are stocked and we’re ready,” Hester said.
Small business owners told News Channel 11 they’ve ordered extra inventory and some have hired additional staff to meet the potential rush of patrons looking to explore Bristol as the temporary casino opens.
Hal Boyd’s father opened Boyd’s Bicycle Shop 61 years ago in downtown Bristol. He now runs it with his brother.
Boyd said he’s already seen an increase in out-of-towners visiting his shop.
“Anytime you get more people in, if they’re coming in, it’s good. You know, the more people that come, the more people that buy – hopefully. But we’re looking forward to it,” he said.
And apart from selling and repairing bicycles, Boyd also offers locksmith services.
“So we also figure that all these people get excited and lock their keys in their car when they won the big pot that we’ll be going out there to get them in their cars. And the ones that are broke, we’ll be selling them a bicycle,” he joked.
For small, family-owned restaurants nationwide, the pandemic was a killer. To Matt Shy, owner of Bristol Gardens and Grill, COVID nearly took his business down.
“We lost almost 60% of our revenue by losing caterings within one day,” he said. “We’re not just going to sit in the corner and cry.”
Shy said he wasn’t going to shy away from the opportunity to brand his business with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to become a food producer. He now grows peppers on his property in greenhouses next to his smoking pit, so that he can smoke meat, as well as produce, make, bottle, label, and sell a variety of BBQ and hot sauces.
“Caterings are little by little starting to come back, there’s a casino opening up down the road, and for the first time in two years, it feels like maybe there’s a little air under the wings and we can take a deep breath and go, ‘wow, maybe we pulled it off,'” he said.
The anticipated foot traffic increase is what is building his enthusiasm, along with the professional relationships his business has built with the casino.
“I’ve actually delivered lunch and seen the project in the process, the project has come along amazing. What it looks like in there is fantastic,” Shy said. “We’re all very excited, Bristol’s needed a change, needed something to kind of drive it into the next century, so to speak.”
Another Bristol restaurant getting ready for the rise in the number of patrons this weekend is The Angry Italian.
As a Chicago native, owner Keith Yonkers hopes to welcome visitors as he was welcomed by the Bristol community when his family moved here and opened their south-Chicago-style Italian restaurant.
“I think the positive is you’re going to have that Southern hometown feeling here in Bristol, everybody’s friendly, it’s like everybody knows you, so the warmth of the town will be there,” he said, as if to his upcoming customers.
He said he wanted to remind visitors from up north that this southern town is a lot different from the fast-paced beats of big cities they might be used to.
“Don’t expect things to happen yesterday, things happen on their own accord” Yonkers warned.
He had a restaurant in Las Vegas years ago, and so he said he knows what to expect.
“I’m very familiar with working in a casino town, I worked at Caesar’s, I was at a university where a casino opened up so I saw what happens when casinos come in,” he said. “I think it’s going to be positive, but I know that with a lot of positives you get your negatives as well and I’ve seen it, I just hope it doesn’t happen here in Bristol.”
But for others, the promise of rejuvenation that the casino offers is enough.
“They have taken our dilapidated mall and created a beautiful casino, so we’re excited and all of Bristol should be proud,” Hester said.
The casino will be open to the public at 2 p.m. Friday, following which it will be open seven days a week, 24 hours a day. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/small-businesses-gear-up-for-customer-influx-as-casino-opens/ | 2022-07-07T21:06:36 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/small-businesses-gear-up-for-customer-influx-as-casino-opens/ |
Two dead, one injured after motorcycle crashes into a van
AUBURNDALE — A 50-year-old motorcyclist and his passenger were killed in a crash with a van on Berkley Road Wednesday.
The crash happened at around 4:07 p.m. Officials said Michael Hamilton of Lakeland and his passenger, 46-year old Jeana Wright of Auburndale, were killed after the black 2004 Honda Shadow motorcycle they were riding hit the side of a burgundy 2012 Honda Odyssey van driven by a 79-year old woman from Lake Alfred.
The driver of the van is in stable condition at a local hospital. A 20-year-old passenger in the van was uninjured.
From June:56-year-old woman was hit and killed by pickup truck on West Frostproof Road
And:31-year-old bicyclist from Orlando hit and killed in Auburndale early Sunday
Investigators said detectives tried to stop Hamilton on eastbound Old Dixie Highway at Berkley Road after noticing the license plate registration did not match the motorcycle he was riding.
After the detective turned his emergency lights on, Hamilton turned onto Berkley Road and began to accelerate, the sheriff's office said in a release. Once the detective realized that Hamilton was fleeing, he turned the lights off and backed off his attempt to stop the motorcycle.
"Two witnesses confirmed that the motorcycle passed them at a high rate of speed, and there were no law enforcement vehicles or emergency lights in sight, and they heard no sirens," Sheriff Grady Judd said. "Detectives recognized right away that Hamilton was being reckless, so they disengaged."
Did you know:Jury awards $50 million to Polk City man who lost both legs in drunk driving crash. But 'we have to wait'
A release said Hamilton continued northbound at a high rate of speed while approaching the intersection of Oak Crossing Boulevard. The driver of the van was stopped at the intersection and began turning left into the southbound lanes of Berkley Road when the motorcycle ran into the van.
Officials said Hamilton and Wright were ejected from the motorcycle and landed inside the van.
According to sheriff's reports, Hamilton has been convicted of fleeing to elude law enforcement twice in the past and his driver's license was currently revoked. | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2022/07/07/two-dead-one-injured-auburndale-crash-involving-motorcycle/7829411001/ | 2022-07-07T21:09:01 | 1 | https://www.theledger.com/story/news/local/2022/07/07/two-dead-one-injured-auburndale-crash-involving-motorcycle/7829411001/ |
The Fort Wayne police officer who was arrested in February for hitting his fiancée pleaded guilty today, but he won’t serve any more time behind bars.
Jordan D. Conn of Fort Wayne was sentenced to a year on probation with two days of jail time credited to that sentence. He pleaded guilty to felony domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury and misdemeanor domestic battery.
Conn resigned from the Fort Wayne Police Department on June 21, according to the department’s public information officer Jeremy Webb. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/former-fort-wayne-officer-sentenced-for-domestic-battery/article_477a19ba-fe28-11ec-9a9f-8b3eeed4ee78.html | 2022-07-07T21:14:53 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/former-fort-wayne-officer-sentenced-for-domestic-battery/article_477a19ba-fe28-11ec-9a9f-8b3eeed4ee78.html |
COVID-19 cases are gradually climbing, both statewide and locally, leading health officials to remind Ohioans of precautions that can keep them safer from the virus.
Last week, Ohio recorded 18,838 COVID-19 cases, according to the Ohio Department of Health. That’s slightly higher than the average of 17,407 over the past three weeks, and six times higher than the 3,103 in a week that was reported three months ago.
Montgomery County’s two-week incident case rate rose from 301 to 350 for the week ending July 1, a 16% increase that continues the gradual rise over the past several months, according to Dan Suffoletto, spokesman for Public Health-Dayton & Montgomery County.
“In the past (several) weeks, they have been going up slightly,” Suffoleto said. “We have seen a rise in the number of cases. Hospitals are also seeing a slight rise in the number of hospitalizations, as well.”
Those statewide numbers and the similar statistics seen on local levels are what led Wright Patterson Air Force Base earlier this week to return the installation to more stringent health protection condition “Bravo.” Mask-wearing remains optional, and a public health emergency was not declared, but there will be mandatory weekly “screening” for employees who have not received COVID-19 vaccinations.
Montgomery County recently went from the low level to medium level on the CDC Community Levels index. It remained there Thursday afternoon, meaning that those who are at high risk for severe illness should talk to a healthcare provider about whether they need to wear a mask and take other precautions, he said.
“High-risk people are people undergoing chemotherapy, or if you have a weakened immune system for various reasons, or if you have COPD or things like that,” Suffoletto said.
Being at the “Medium” level also means residents should stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and get tested if they see symptoms, he said.
“Your chances of staying out of the hospital are better if you stay up to date with your vaccinations,” Suffoletto said.
That medium level is determined by the number of cases in a county, the amount of hospital admissions and hospital capacity, he said.
The number of reported cases has been ticking up over the last several months, going from 864 in April, to 2,626 in May, and 3,856 in June, according to PHDMC statistics.
The number of cases are going up (in recent weeks), but “nothing compared like it was in January,” Suffoleto said.
In January, that case count numbered 30,246. The amount of cases reported on Jan. 10 alone numbered 1,782, while on June 30, the amount of cases reported numbered just 119.
On a statewide level, COVID-19 hospitalizations and ICU admissions dropped from last Thursday but are still up from the spring. ODH recorded 411 COVID hospitalizations and 29 ICU admissions in the past week.
As of Thursday, Ohio had 858 people hospitalized with the virus, including 79 in west central Ohio and 112 in southwest Ohio, according to the Ohio Hospital Association.
In west central Ohio, which includes Champaign, Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Shelby counties, that’s an 8% increase from last week and a 295% increase compared to 60 days ago.
Southwest Ohio, which consists of Butler, Warren, Hamilton, Adams, Brown, Clermont and Clinton counties, reported a 7% increase in COVID inpatients in the last week and a 100% increase in the past 60 days, according to OHA.
Also listed at “medium” on the CDC Community Levels index are Greene and Warren counties. Remaining on the “low” part of those levels are Butler, Clark and Miami counties.
Cases in Clark County numbered 138 in April, 575 in May and 684 in June, according to the Clark County Combined Health District.
“As travel has picked up, graduations, things like that, we have seen more community spread, but our hospitals haven’t been as pressed,” said Nate Smith, communications coordinator for the health district. “We haven’t quite seen the hospitalizations we saw like, say, with the Omicron variant.”
COVID numbers haven’t been going up or down in Clark County for five consecutive weeks, with more than 100 cases being reported each week, according to Charles Patterson, the district’s health commissioner.
“These numbers are most likely underreported due to the fact that so many people are using home test kits and many of those positive results do not get reported to the local health departments,” Patterson said.
In terms of what the health district advises the public should do, “there really are no changes,” he said.
“Continue to have as many events outdoors as possible and just realize that we continue to have this uptick in cases from Omicron, most likely from BA.4 and BA.5 now, which are the predominant strains, and they are affecting people basically whether they’re vaccinated or not,” Patterson said. “The vaccines continue to prevent hospitalizations and very intense cases, but the vaccination doesn’t appear to stop the actual spread from person to person of the Omicron variant.”
Smith said those who are traveling from a place where community spread is lower, like Clark County, to a place where it is more rapidly spreading, run a greater risk and should consider taking precautions.
“Maybe you’re not worried too much about wearing a mask if you’re going the same places all the time in your hometown, but if you’re traveling, it certainly may be a good idea to put one on,” he said.
Butler County, like many other parts of southwest Ohio, has continued to see a “slow but steady” rise in COVID-19 cases over the last month or so, according to Erik Balster, health commissioner for the Butler County General Health District.
Balster said the health department recommends residents stay up to date on vaccines and consult with their primary care physician for any questions about the timing of such measures. He said the health department is encouraging personal responsibility as a way of minimizing COVID cases.
“If you’re feeling ill or sick, there’s more than enough tests to go around, free of course through us and other health departments,” he said. “If you’re not feeling good, you can eliminate some of these increasing (COVID) numbers by just staying home, much like you could with flu or any other illness.”
There were 120 coronavirus patients in Ohio’s ICUs Thursday, including 16 in southwest Ohio and 10 in west central Ohio. That’s a 67% increase compared to last week and 900% increase compared to 60 days ago for west central Ohio, according to OHA.
More than 63% of Ohioans have started the COVID-19 vaccine and 58.5% have finished it, according to ODH. | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/covid-case-numbers-six-times-higher-than-three-months-ago/EO2HWEIJFNAEJLW5QGNBP44TC4/ | 2022-07-07T21:16:01 | 0 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/covid-case-numbers-six-times-higher-than-three-months-ago/EO2HWEIJFNAEJLW5QGNBP44TC4/ |
PORTLAND, Maine — Dale Barnard is the chef at Old Port Sea Grill in Portland. He joined us in the kitchen to show us how to make a whipped ricotta crostini with truffle honey.
Herb Ricotta
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups ricotta
- 2tbps chives
- 1tbps parsley
In a large mixing bowl, whisk herbs into ricotta vigorously, along with the heavy cream. Ricotta can become whipped to an extent, so whisk to desired texture. Season afterward to desired taste with salt and pepper.
Truffle Oil
Ingredients:
- 2 cups honey
- ¼ cup truffle oil
Mix everything together in a large bowl. The honey at room temperature or higher will ease mixing. The oil will eventually separate from the honey, so stir or shake the mixture together right before use. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/recipe-whipped-ricotta-crustini-with-truffle-honey-chef-dale-barnard-old-port-sea-grill-maine/97-f9357701-f4d7-4d03-bc5f-a2d50864b32e | 2022-07-07T21:17:46 | 1 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/recipe-whipped-ricotta-crustini-with-truffle-honey-chef-dale-barnard-old-port-sea-grill-maine/97-f9357701-f4d7-4d03-bc5f-a2d50864b32e |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:17:53 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
SANFORD, Maine — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above aired July 5, 2022.
A missing Sanford woman, her daughter, and a man her family describes as her ex-boyfriend were spotted on surveillance video Friday.
Sanford police told NEWS CENTER Maine the trio was seen at a Walmart, but officials are not saying the town where the Walmart is located.
The family of Jill Sidebotham spoke to NEWS CENTER Maine on Tuesday, five days after the disappearance of Jill, her 2-year-old daughter, and who her family described as her ex-boyfriend, Nicholas Hansen.
Police said Thursday there is no suspicion of anything nefarious but called the situation "unusual." They added that they've been receiving a lot of tips about it.
Reta Lyman, Jill's oldest sister, said the last time Jill contacted her family was Tuesday, June 28.
"I'm not sure if maybe we misunderstood something. ... But I don't think she would pull this," Reta Lyman said.
"I'm the oldest. I'm supposed to be the one that looks after them, but I can't. ... I don't know what to do," she added. "She's a good mom. ... We need her back."
Sanford police said the trio was camping in the Phillips area in Franklin County. Jill's family said they were supposed to return home on June 30.
The family was seen driving a 2005 Volkswagen Jetta with the Maine license plate 1563VJ, according to a Facebook post by Sanford police.
Jill's father, Ron Sidebotham, said leaving for such a long period of time is not common behavior for his daughter.
"I was worried the second my wife told me what they were doing. ... I hate to say it, but I don't trust the guy. There have been past issues with him," the father said.
Sanford police told NEWS CENTER Maine they contacted every county agency to be on the lookout for the trio.
"We're really scared right now," Ron Sidebotham said. "Not knowing is almost as bad as if something bad did happen. Not knowing is just eating away and eating away."
Sanford police are requesting tips from the public. Police ask that anyone who may have information call 207-324-9170.
For the latest breaking news, weather, and traffic alerts, download the NEWS CENTER Maine mobile app. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/missing-sanford-maine-family-spotted-on-surveillance-video-jill-sidebotham/97-289b22ac-ee57-4694-bd18-d4eab356be03 | 2022-07-07T21:17:59 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/missing-sanford-maine-family-spotted-on-surveillance-video-jill-sidebotham/97-289b22ac-ee57-4694-bd18-d4eab356be03 |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:19:46 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
INDIANAPOLIS — IMPD Missing Persons Detectives are seeking the public's help in locating 2-year-old Jailee Latson.
Jailee is described as 2-feet, 10-inches tall and 35 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes.
She was last seen on Thursday, July 7 in the 800 block of Rural Street sometime in the early hours of the day. She was wearing a diaper and no shirt.
IMPD said it is undetermined if she walked away or if there is foul play involved.
Police are asking anyone that might have doorbell or surveillance video and live in that area to contact them.
IMPD is working to get a Silver Alert issued for Jailee. 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.
If someone sees her, they should call 911. People can also contact the IMPD Missing Persons Unit at 317-327-6160 or call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477 or (TIPS).
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/impd-is-asking-for-help-finding-a-missing-2-year-old/531-4014bdaf-2f2b-41ba-946d-1cad8869b37b | 2022-07-07T21:19:52 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/impd-is-asking-for-help-finding-a-missing-2-year-old/531-4014bdaf-2f2b-41ba-946d-1cad8869b37b |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:23:39 | 1 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward announced proposed changes to the city's camping and sit and lie ordinances that will limit when and where people are allowed to camp on city property.
The city's camping ordinance has not been updated since 2018 and the sit and lie ordinance has not been updated since 2014.
The current ordinance prohibits camping on city-owned public property when there is not enough shelter space. Spokane City Council recently announced an updated ordinance, but the mayor said she wants to take it a step further.
"We make it easy to be homeless," Woodward said. "I know that's not a popular thing for some people to hear, but these ordinances and their updates are not to push people around. It is to push them into assistance."
Under Spokane's current illegal camping ordinance, camping is not allowed on public property and a person cannot sit or lie on the sidewalk between 6 a.m. and midnight. However, the ordinance is also not enforced if there is no shelter space.
Both the city council and the mayor's proposals call for removing the blanket exemption "when shelter space is unavailable." Both also allow for enforcement at all times in some specified locations.
Both proposals would also enforce the camping ordinance in the following areas:
- Within 100 feet of railroad viaducts
- Within 35 feet of the Spokane River
- All city parks and city-owned property
Both proposals also have no effect on people camping on private or state-owned land, meaning the people camping in the lot near I-90 would be exempt from both ordinances.
Woodward's proposal, however, takes the ordinance a step further.
The mayor's proposes changes would expand enforcement to within a half-mile of city-supported congregate shelters, as well as within the boundaries of the Business Improvement District and the downtown police precinct.
This is the Business Improvement District boundary map:
Under Woodward's proposal, camping would be illegal in all colored zones on the map. That zone stretches from Cataldo Avenue to the railroad tracks near First Avenue and from Walnut to North Division. The downtown police precinct has a wider footprint.
Camping would be illegal in the orange-colored area, which stretches from the north bank of Riverfront Park to I-90, then from Sherman out to near Inland Empire Highway.
The mayor said her recommendations are a compromise with the council. However, City Council President Breean Beggs said Wednesday was the first time he heard of Woodward's recommendations. He added this is not the best way to get city council votes.
Beggs and councilmember Lori Kinnear's ordinance only limits where people can set up a tent on city-owned property. Restrictions include around railroad viaducts, in city parks and near the Spokane River.
"The mayor and the other council members care a little bit less about what the law is and they just really want to make a statement," Beggs said. "They want people to feel like something is going to be done."
Woodward told the community on Wednesday that Beggs and Kinnear's ordinance is not enough and more places downtown need to be restricted.
"That proposal does not go far enough," she said. "It doesn't include the downtown district and that's where we want to be able to see enforcement and improvement."
Beggs said those additions will make the ordinance unconstitutional, putting serious limits on where people can go. He added the mayor's recommended ordinance could push tents further into residential neighborhoods.
According to Beggs, he was not invited to the mayor's press conference, and if the mayor wants enough votes to get her ordinance passed, she needs to have a discussion with all other council members involved.
Beggs said she has not done that yet.
Both proposals will be discussed on Monday, July 11 in the Public Safety committee meeting.
DOWNLOAD THE KREM SMARTPHONE APP
DOWNLOAD FOR IPHONE HERE | DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROID HERE
HOW TO ADD THE KREM+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for KREM in the Channel Store.
Fire TV: search for "KREM" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.
To report a typo or grammatical error, please email webspokane@krem.com. | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/homeless/spokane-homeless-camping-sit-and-lie-ordinance/293-6d800a2c-fbe9-4959-be04-529efa899641 | 2022-07-07T21:23:46 | 0 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/homeless/spokane-homeless-camping-sit-and-lie-ordinance/293-6d800a2c-fbe9-4959-be04-529efa899641 |
SAN ANTONIO — An adorable chihuahua named Chewie, who was found abandoned in an apartment complex paring lot, now has a loving forever home.
The story begins on a sad note, with City of San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) finding the poor chihuahua left behind by his owners in a dog crate under a parking carport. When the ACS officer approached the crate, Chewie was nervous and scared. A bag of dog food, his pet tags, and vaccine records were all on top of the crate.
The related video above was originally published June 17, 2022.
ACS began investigating the owner's information on the paperwork and found out that the family had lived in the same apartment complex. Apparently they had fallen on hard times and moved without taking their dog.
Chewie was brought back to ACS so they could help him and find him a forever home.
Just five days later, Ms. T was walking through the kennels, when she spotted little Chewie curled up in his blanket. It was love at first sight. She decided then and there that her family could provide Chewie with the comfort and love he deserved.
"He has filled our hearts with so much love & joy," said Mrs. T. "He is spoiled rotten along with my two other adopted fur babies, who were also adopted from ACS."
Chewie may have had a ruff start but his story has a happy ending. He is loved and cherished in his forever home.
Learn more about KENS 5:
Since going on the air in 1950, KENS 5 has strived to be the best, most trusted news and entertainment source for generations of San Antonians.
KENS 5 has brought numerous firsts to South Texas television, including being the first local station with a helicopter, the first with its own Doppler radar and the first to air a local morning news program.
Over the years, KENS 5 has worked to transform local news. Our cameras have been the lens bringing history into local viewers' homes. We're proud of our legacy as we serve San Antonians today.
Today, KENS 5 continues to set the standard in local broadcasting and is recognized by its peers for excellence and innovation. The KENS 5 News team focuses on stories that really matter to our community.
You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more!
Want to get in touch with someone at KENS 5? You can send a message using our Contacts page or email one of our team members. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/chihuahua-abandoned-in-parking-lot-inside-his-crate-finds-forever-home-san-antonio-texas-dog-adopt-acs-pet-animal/273-cb2ba79a-8745-435b-9495-1b1a0b53957d | 2022-07-07T21:24:02 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/chihuahua-abandoned-in-parking-lot-inside-his-crate-finds-forever-home-san-antonio-texas-dog-adopt-acs-pet-animal/273-cb2ba79a-8745-435b-9495-1b1a0b53957d |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:24:08 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
Originally published July 7 on KTVB.COM.
To ease the burn of temperatures in the 90s – and higher – air conditioners provide relief for people in houses, apartments and businesses around the Treasure Valley.
For the hundreds of people in the area experiencing homelessness, however, beating the summer heat is difficult.
That's why the Our Path Home partnership working to end homelessness in Ada County is getting the word out about places that welcome people who need a place to cool down. Our Path Home has released on its website a map of daytime cooling spaces. Partners include Boise Parks and Recreation and Boise Public Library, Interfaith Sanctuary, Corpus Christi House, Cathedral of the Rockies and the Treasure Valley Family YMCA.
The cooling spaces are open between July 6 and August 31. Hours and services vary, and more details are posted on the Our Path Home cooling website.
Ann Morrison Park
- Sunrise to sunset; misters available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Misters and white temporary shade structures are in two spots located in the middle of the park between Americana Boulevard and the water fountain (fountain is under construction). The OUTREACH team will occasionally stop by with water.
Boise City Hall
- Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in first-floor lobby
Boise Public Library (Downtown - 715 S Capitol Blvd.)
- Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Corpus Christi - 525 S Americana Blvd., Boise
- Monday-Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed Sundays
Cathedral of the Rockies - 717 N 11th St., Boise
- Sunday 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Our Path Home - OUTREACH (511 S Americana Blvd., Boise)
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
YMCA Downtown - 1050 W State St., Boise
- Monday-Friday 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- YMCA membership required - The OUTREACH team is able to assist people in signing up for a free membership and in obtaining an ID; call the Housing Crisis Hotline at 208-336-4663 for more information; sex offenders not allowed inside YMCA.
Multiple days with high temperatures of 100 degrees or hotter are in the forecast for Boise starting July 12. Before then, highs exceeding 90 degrees are expected every day.
Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to cramps, exhaustion and even heat stroke, which occurs when the body no longer sweats and body temperatures reach dangerous levels.
To stay safe in the summer heat, stay hydrated; drink about 16 ounces of water before going outside, then drink 5 to 7 ounces every 15 or 20 minutes. Alcohol, coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks can be dehydrating. Also, wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Use a damp rag to wipe your face or put it around your neck to cool off. To avoid sunburn while outside, use sunscreen and wear a hat.
The Our Path Home team welcomes donations of needed items, including reusable water bottles, bottled water, sunscreen and cooling rags. If you're interested in donating, email info@ourpathhome.org.
Anyone experiencing a housing crisis can get connected to help by calling the Boise Housing Crisis Hotline at 208-336-HOME (208-336-4663).
More from KTVB.COM: | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/where-can-people-without-homes-keep-cool-in-boise-new-map-points-the-way/article_c02b2186-d233-5ee2-a368-6a4b8646ee4f.html | 2022-07-07T21:34:03 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/where-can-people-without-homes-keep-cool-in-boise-new-map-points-the-way/article_c02b2186-d233-5ee2-a368-6a4b8646ee4f.html |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:36:56 | 0 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — A day after a man was shot and killed in a Publix parking lot, loved ones are honoring his memory.
Lewayne Terrell was found dead Wednesday around noon at the Emory Commons shopping center, off North Decatur Road. Police rushed to the area, which is about a mile from Emory University.
DeKalb County Police Department investigators have released few details in the case, only that they are following up on leads.
On Thursday, friends openly mourned Terrell's death, saying he was a father and a hard worker and he will be missed.
“When you met him you couldn’t help but to love him because he was one of those kind of people who sits in your soul,” said Lee Williams.
Williams said she worked with Terrell at Verizon for years and was shocked to hear about the last moments of his life.
“Just knowing he was gunned down in a parking lot at broad daylight at 12 noon," she said. "You got to be a vicious so and so."
His friend also shed light on Terrell's aspirations, saying he was recently working as a rapper.
“(His) artist name was Teflon Terrell and he was trying to build himself up," Williams said. "But at the end of the day, he was just trying to be there for his family and he was just solid."
The public shooting sent shoppers running through the plaza Wednesday, which was noticeably not as busy the day following.
A mother and daughter told 11Alive's Tracey Amick-Peer it’s hard to come back after such a shocking crime.
“It just broke my heart that your child is scared to go to the grocery store,” said Natalie Turner.
Other patrons returned with caution.
“Hoping it was a one-time thing," Ashley Taylor said. "That’s pretty scary though."
Witnesses at the shopping plaza Wednesday said it appeared the shooter followed Terrell from the road into the parking lot and then shot him in his car. These details have not been corroborated by the police.
No suspect information has been released and police said no one is in custody. 11Alive also asked authorities if they are investigating the shooting as a case of road rage. DKPC declined to comment. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/lewayne-terrell-dekalb-publix-parking-lot/85-d387fa3a-15fd-4976-98c0-59b265b5bd9f | 2022-07-07T21:37:02 | 0 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/lewayne-terrell-dekalb-publix-parking-lot/85-d387fa3a-15fd-4976-98c0-59b265b5bd9f |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:39:01 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
TRUCKEE, Calif. — An evacuation order has been issued in Truckee as crews battle a vegetation fire that sparked Thursday.
The Truckee Police Department ordered evacuations in Truckee North of Martis Creek Road, South of Glenshire Drive, East of SR-267 Bypass, Joeger Drive, Glenshire Drive and West of Royal Way.
Residents in the affected zone are being ordered to evacuate immediately according to police.
The Butterfield Fire began Thursday morning near Truckee Tahoe Airport and has currently burned between 5 to 10 acres according to Truckee Fire Protection District.
The airport is currently closed to clear air space as fire crews drop retardant in an effort to contain the flames.
Evacuation map
A map of the evacuations can be viewed HERE.
Watch more from ABC10: Illegal fireworks blew hole in Southern California home, authorities say | Top 10 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/wildfire/butterfield-fire-evacuation-order-truckee/103-69bb528f-e9b8-4aa0-bbef-2e337f82c86f | 2022-07-07T21:39:07 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/wildfire/butterfield-fire-evacuation-order-truckee/103-69bb528f-e9b8-4aa0-bbef-2e337f82c86f |
AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Community College District evacuated two campuses on Thursday due to bomb threats.
As of 2:34 p.m., both the ACC Round Rock and the South Austin campuses were being evacuated.
At 2:50 p.m., officers were continuing to investigate the reports.
Shortly after 4 p.m., officials said that the South Austin campus was given the all-clear and was back open but that the Round Rock campus would likely remain closed for the rest of the day. Soon after, police and fire crews left the Round Rock campus, giving the all-clear.
ACC said via its website that all classes and activities at the Round Rock campus are canceled for the day. All other campuses are still operating on normal schedules.
The district will continue to provide updates on its website, Facebook and Twitter. Check back for updates.
PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/austin-community-college-evacuates-two-campuses-amid-bomb-threats/269-f6a94692-0ca2-4a57-bd38-4b64ccc177ea | 2022-07-07T21:44:31 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/austin-community-college-evacuates-two-campuses-amid-bomb-threats/269-f6a94692-0ca2-4a57-bd38-4b64ccc177ea |
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin-Travis County EMS reported to a crash scene involving a collision between a parked car and bicycle on West Live Oak Street, a tweet announced Thursday afternoon.
A teenager was said to be underneath the vehicle. An earlier tweet from Austin-Travis County EMS said "CPR instructions [were] being given," but a final tweet on the incident said they were not currently conducting CPR.
The victim was taken to St. David's South Austin Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. No other information is available at this time.
PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/austin-travis-county-ems-crash-bike-car/269-4a6091a1-5711-4574-9089-d48091e9ccfb | 2022-07-07T21:44:38 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/austin-travis-county-ems-crash-bike-car/269-4a6091a1-5711-4574-9089-d48091e9ccfb |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:44:44 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — While the national gas prices have been going down a little bit over the past few weeks, they are still much higher than the prices we were seeing a year ago.
The prices are impacting more than our wallets. It is also making an impact on emergency responders.
The Fayetteville Fire Department says for the last few months they’ve had to reevaluate how they do things.
Assistant Fire Chief Willie Watts says they are asking their crews to limit non-emergency and non-training travel in the vehicles. This means that in the past, firefighters might run to the store a few times on their shifts to get things needed, but now they don’t. They’ve asked all on a shift to compile one big list so there’s only one trip to the store.
“From time to time the fire chief and other counterparts make deliveries throughout the day just to try and battle the fuel prices because as you know those firetrucks are a pretty good size and they don’t get very good fuel mileage,” said Watts.
They have a set budget from taxpayers' dollars and just because prices have gone up doesn’t mean their budget has. When it comes to fire trucks, they aren’t exactly fuel-friendly, so one of the biggest changes they’ve had to make is turning some firetrucks off while on the scene of a fire.
“What we can do is the ones that aren’t actively used— pumping water or things like that— we are simply shutting those down and letting them sit, whereas normally we would leave them running,” said Watts.
This means that some firefighters won’t be coming back to an airconditioned car after being in a burning building in 60 pounds of gear.
“Shutting fire trucks down at emergency scenes has never occurred before,” said Watts.
According to Watts, these adjustments are necessary to keep from cutting back on funding for training.
We also heard from Rogers Fire Department and Fayetteville Police Department who say they haven’t had to make changes yet but are being mindful of conserving gas during this time.
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To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/gas-prices-emergency-responders-arkansas/527-2c038139-c6e1-4757-8727-7899135f0f51 | 2022-07-07T21:45:48 | 0 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/gas-prices-emergency-responders-arkansas/527-2c038139-c6e1-4757-8727-7899135f0f51 |
ST PAUL, Minn. — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison on federal charges that he violated George Floyd's civil rights at the time of his death in May 2020.
The judge gave Chauvin credit for the seven months he already served, bringing his sentence moving forward to 245 months, or just over 20 years.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges back in December, admitting for the first time that he kept his knee on Floyd’s neck — even after he became unresponsive — resulting in Floyd's death.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led Chauvin's prosecution in state court, called the sentence "another step of accountability on the road to justice," in a statement released Thursday afternoon.
He also thanked the U.S. Attorney's Office and Department of Justice for prosecuting Chauvin's case, writing "it was appropriate and right that they stepped in."
Chauvin spoke briefly at the sentencing hearing, where he told George Floyd’s family that he “wishes all the best” for Floyd’s children, though he did not issue a direct apology.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Paul Magnuson spoke to Chauvin directly. "I really don’t know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person’s neck until they expire is simply wrong and for that conduct you must be substantially punished."
One of George Floyd's brothers, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross and Derek Chauvin's mother all delivered victim impact statements before the ruling. During her remarks, Chauvin's mother said her son often put the Minneapolis Police Department before his family, and asked the judge to send Chauvin to a nearby federal facility.
John Pope also spoke at the hearing. As part of his federal plea deal, Chauvin admitted to using excessive force against Pope when he was 14 years old in 2017.
The plea deal called for Chauvin to serve his federal and state sentences at the same time and to be transferred from a Minnesota state prison to a federal prison, where experts say he likely will be safer and may be held under less restrictive conditions.
In April 2021, a state jury found Chauvin guilty of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree murder and third-degree murder in Floyd’s death, making him the first white police officer to be found guilty of murdering a Black man in Minnesota. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill handed down a 22 1/2 year sentence on those counts.
For his own safety, Chauvin, 46, had been held since his conviction in “administrative segregation” at the state's maximum security prison at Oak Park Heights. He's been largely confined to a 10-by-10-foot room, which he’s been allowed to leave for an average of one hour a day for exercise.
If Chauvin were in the general population of a Minnesota state prison, he'd be at risk of running into inmates he had arrested or investigated when he was a Minneapolis officer, said Rachel Moran, another law professor at St. Thomas. While he can’t totally escape his notoriety in a federal prison elsewhere, she said, he’s unlikely to encounter inmates with such a direct, personal grudge.
State prison populations are heavy on violent offenders, including people convicted of murder, robbery and rape, Heffelfinger said. Federal prisons also hold inmates with violent backgrounds, he added, but they're more likely to house nonviolent drug dealers, white-collar criminals and the like.
Assuming the bureau decides Chauvin is safe enough in the general population, he’ll have more chances to move about, to work and to participate in programming. Those opportunities would vary with the security level and the individual facility.
The three other former officers charged in connection to Floyd's murder, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane, were all found guilty in federal court in Feb. 2022 on civil rights charges related to Floyd's death.
Lane has also pleaded guilty to a state count of aiding and abetting manslaughter, while Thao and Kueng face an October trial on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch more on the Trial of Derek Chauvin:
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b | 2022-07-07T21:45:55 | 0 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/derek-chauvin-sentenced-federal-charges-george-floyd/89-8c484115-4678-4345-8039-2ca7a3ff067b |
WOODSTOCK, Ga. — The Bells Ferry Learning Center in Woodstock has managed to stay busy. Its door swings open every few minutes, and parents walk in dropping off their child, or stay for some free food.
That meal, is just one of many ways the child care center has tried to help its parents with soaring costs across the board.
The learning center, just like many other child care centers across the nation, is experiencing inflation in all different directions: from high gas prices for its staff to pricier school supplies.
Georgia Lottery Funded Pre-K Teacher Laura Thompson is an expert when it comes to school supply bargain shopping. She even has a blog about it. She's in charge of buying materials at the center for kindergarteners.
"What I’ve realized going out to the stores, the prices of things have almost doubled," Thompson said. "Kindergarten they ask for specific pencils that are $6 a box. I mean can you believe that? Paying $6 a box for pencils. It’s hitting us in the pocket, absolutely."
Doors at the learning center, which serves children six weeks up until 12 years old, have remained open, in part thanks to the changes happening inside.
“What we’re having to do is really bargain shop: hit those back to school sales," Thompson said.
From shopping smarter, to raising wages, not only are child care centers fighting inflation, they have to fight staff shortages at the same time.
"Inflation has affected our staffing. Personally I live 5 miles away so the price of gas hasn’t really affected me that much in getting back and forth to work but we do have teachers who live in Cumming, we do have teachers that live in Dallas, Paulding County, 30-45 minutes or over an hour to get to us every day so I know they’re hurting the most," she added.
Payroll at the child care center has gone up nearly 8% to help staff deal with soaring gas prices, totaling to $3,500 extra a month.
As a result, the learning center which serves several demographics, including many low-income families, has had to raise its tuition.
“It’s affecting our parents, our students, and our employees," she said.
It’s a similar story nationwide. A study found that last year, nearly 16,000 child care centers closed from December 2019 through March 2021 because of many of these factors.
To help you fight soaring prices, Thompson has some advice: do most of back to school shopping after the school year starts, and always check for coupons online.
"I do recommend when Target, Walmart, Office Max, when they open those composition notebooks for 50 cents go out and buy them, or the packs of glue sticks for 50 cents, go out and buy them. But when it comes to backpacks, I got all of our summer transition program kids their backpacks for 90% off around September and October. I start shopping [those months], paying up to 90% off retail for these school supplies."
Thompson also credits the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning for having initiatives that have helped stuff. She said the agency gave child care workers $2,000 bonuses and $200 to spend in classroom materials.
The Bells Ferry Learning Center has additional locations in Marietta and Cartersville. It is currently hiring teachers and accepting more families. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/inflation-staff-shortages-child-care-centers/85-d05478fc-29c8-496d-b228-46c374446f2d | 2022-07-07T21:46:01 | 1 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/inflation-staff-shortages-child-care-centers/85-d05478fc-29c8-496d-b228-46c374446f2d |
MORRISTOWN, Tenn. — The nostalgic taste of summer is different for everyone. For one East Tennessee family, peach milkshakes bring back more than memories.
Beth Ann Smith remembers her mouth-watering every Fourth of July growing up, yearning for homemade peach ice cream.
"My great-aunt Merle would make homemade peach ice cream in the old ice cream churn, and it was delicious," Smith said. "Everybody looked forward to it."
With time, that taste started to fade until Smith picked up a Chick-Fil-A peach milkshake.
"My grandmother tasted it, and I think every time she drank one, the first thing she would say is, 'It's like drinking Merle's ice cream through a straw,'" Smith said.
Smith says her grandmother, whom she called "Granga" was the epitome of love.
"My grandmother Faye Rogers was the ultimate giver," Smith said. "She loved people. She taught school for over 30 years. She was the queen of hospitality. Pretty much anybody she knew had eaten a meal at her table."
To this family, giving to others is the best ingredient in life.
"She and my grandfather, her husband, lived life by the motto, 'Today, invest in someone else's happiness,'" she said.
For a woman already so sweet, Rogers still loved her summer treats. The peach milkshake became a staple in her summer diet. Since it's a seasonal shake, Rogers would count down the days until its return, like an advent calendar.
On her 97th birthday, she would hardly look at the cake. All she wanted was the peach milkshake.
"That was for sure one of the last peach milkshakes that she had because her birthday is July 28 and that's close to the end of peach milkshake season as we call it," Smith said. "It very well could have been the last peach milkshake she ever had."
Rogers passed away in March 2022.
"Mom and I had, for about a week, been sitting with her, holding her hand and singing hymns with her," Smith said. "The day before she died, we knew something was different. It was the first day that I held her hand and squeezed her hand and she didn't squeeze it back."
So when Chick-Fil-A announced in June the peach milkshake would make its return, Smith shared her story.
"I made a comment and said, 'My grandmother loved those peach milkshakes, she died in March, and so I'll drink as many as I can this year in her honor,'" Smith said.
The company reached out to her directly and sent her free shakes, coupons, and gifts. At the bottom of the package was a framed picture from Rogers' 97th birthday, enjoying the beloved peach shake.
"Someone had printed it out and put it in a peach-colored frame," Smith said.
The gesture touched her so much, that Smith shared the surprise on social media. It now has over 40,000 interactions.
"I know that she would not even be able to fathom this, that so many people had seen it," Smith said. "So many people had seen her picture, or had heard her story that would be above and beyond anything she could ever dream of."
Smith wears her grandmother's wedding ring on a necklace to keep her close to her heart. She also wears a ring her grandmother gave her as a gift to remember one of her favorite people.
"Even without her physically being here, she is going to live on, and a part of her love will live on for my family and for my kids," said Smith.
Her love of giving is a life ingredient that won't fade.
Smith says she has yet to share any of the peach milkshake coupons with her kids because they aren't too fond of the peach flavor. She says that's fine with her because it means more nostalgia while the summer lasts. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/peach-milkshake-keeps-grandmothers-memory-alive/51-d4367a71-3158-48b1-9a13-637106366d65 | 2022-07-07T21:46:07 | 1 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/peach-milkshake-keeps-grandmothers-memory-alive/51-d4367a71-3158-48b1-9a13-637106366d65 |
For the first time in five years, the Pima Animal Care Center may have to start euthanizing dogs this week due to critical overcrowding as it houses three to four times more dogs than normal.
The center is “critically full” with lost and surrendered animals, mostly dogs, creating stressful conditions for the shelter and the animals, a news release from PACC said. The crowded conditions increase the likelihood of disease spread and injuries due to fighting.
On Tuesday, Monica Dangler, the director at PACC, said they may have to start euthanizing dogs, making it the first time since the new shelter opened in 2017 that they would have to take such action.
“The decision to euthanize is gut-wrenching,” Dangler said in the news release. “The last thing PACC wants to do is take this step. Ultimately, we have to make the decision that benefits the largest number of animals possible, keeping as many animals safe and healthy as possible in hopes that they can be reunited with their families. We’re begging Pima County residents to stop by the shelter to claim their lost pets or adopt or foster. You will, quite literally, be saving a life.”
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The week after July 4 is historically the busiest week of the year for the shelter, the news release said. PACC is expected to see an additional 400 dogs brought in this week. Before the holiday weekend, PACC was already extremely full with 490 dogs.
“We’ve done our absolute best to avoid this situation,” Dangler said. “But we’re the only open-admissions shelter in the county and for weeks we have had far more animals coming in than going out. The monsoon and July 4th only made it worse.”
Community members can help the shelter by adopting or fostering medium to large sized dogs. Another way to help is to hang on to stray animals. Pets that stay in the neighborhood where they are found have an 80% chance of making it back home.
When finding a stray animal, PACC encourages the finder to knock on doors in the area as the pet will probably belong to a nearby neighbor. If the finder needs supplies in order to hang onto the pet, PACC can provide those supplies free of charge.
PACC is open noon to 7 p.m., on weekdays, and 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Jamie Donnelly covers breaking news for the Arizona Daily Star. Contact her via e-mail at jdonnelly@tucson.com | https://tucson.com/news/local/pima-animal-care-may-start-euthanizing-dogs-due-to-overcrowding/article_374e1f6a-fe31-11ec-8294-579fc1329d85.html | 2022-07-07T21:50:18 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/pima-animal-care-may-start-euthanizing-dogs-due-to-overcrowding/article_374e1f6a-fe31-11ec-8294-579fc1329d85.html |
The Arizona Republic collected statements made by candidates for governor to see how they stand on major issues. If you are a subscriber to azcentral.com, read the story.
Johanna Eubank is a digital producer for the Arizona Daily Star and tucson.com. She has been with the Star in various capacities since 1991. | https://tucson.com/news/local/what-candidates-for-arizona-governor-say-about-top-issues/article_53e3c8c8-fe36-11ec-a99f-9b9f7060daaf.html | 2022-07-07T21:50:24 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/what-candidates-for-arizona-governor-say-about-top-issues/article_53e3c8c8-fe36-11ec-a99f-9b9f7060daaf.html |
TEXAS, USA — The Texas Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to travel safely in situations that involve 18-wheelers and other large vehicles because crashes involving these trucks can lead to serious injury or death.
Specific warnings have been given to motorists who drive in cities that produce a large amount of oil and gas, like the Permian Basin. These areas are highly trafficked by large vehicles, like 18-wheelers and resulted in more than 79,000 crashes in 2021.
There are a few easy steps drivers can take to avoid collisions and injuries. First, reduce speeds and pay attention. Last year, the leading reasons for fatalities and accidents on the road were a lack of speed control and driver inattention.
TxDOT also advises to give larger trucks more space. This means being aware of the blind spots by avoiding tailgating these bigger vehicles.
Some of these same cautions also apply to those areas that are considered part of Texas' energy sectors. In addition, drivers in these regions are encouraged to follow basic traffic rules, like obeying traffic signs, eliminating distractions by avoiding texting and talking while driving, and never driving under the influence.
All of this guidance comes as part of an ongoing campaign fronted by the TxDOT called, "Be Safe. Drive Smart." This accompanies a social media hashtag, "#EndTheStreakTX."
Both slogans are used to encourage people to utilize safe driving practices to end the steak of daily deaths. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas-department-of-transportation-advises-drivers-how-to-avoid-accidents-with-larger-trucks/513-e094a012-4eec-47c3-a92d-5a0e8c815487 | 2022-07-07T21:53:48 | 0 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas-department-of-transportation-advises-drivers-how-to-avoid-accidents-with-larger-trucks/513-e094a012-4eec-47c3-a92d-5a0e8c815487 |
SAN ANTONIO — Finally some good news for drivers in Texas, as gas prices have dropped by the largest amount so far this year.
AAA Texas says fuel prices could continue to fluctuate through the month of July, but as of Thursday, July 7, the statewide average is $4.33 per gallon. San Antonio drivers are paying around $4.27/gallon, which is a drop of 19 cents since last week, but still up by $1.50 since 2021.
Here is a look at the average price of gas across Texas:
- Austin-San Marcos: $4.36
- Beaumont-Port Arthur: $4.38
- Corpus Christi: $4.04
- Dallas: $4.33
- Fort Worth-Arlington: $4.32
- Houston: $4.36
- Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood: $4.26
- San Antonio: $4.27
- Tyler: $4.27
- Waco: $4.22
The related video above was originally published June 10, 2022.
That price is 16 cents less than last week and is $1.52 more per gallon compared to last year. Drivers in El Paso are paying $4.44/gallon, which is currently the highest price in the state. Down in Laredo, drivers are paying the least amount at $3.98/gallon.
Experts say the national average cost for regular unleaded is $4.75/gallon, which is 11 cents lower than last week and $1.61 more than last year.
While it's nice to see the lower prices, AAA Texas is not sure yet if this is a trend or just another round of price fluctuation, which has occurred numerous times this year. The main reasons for the recent drop are decreasing crude oil prices due to concerns about a decline in global demand later this year and an increased regional supply. July is usually one of the busiest months for road travel and gasoline demand, as folks go on vacations. Because of this and also Russia’s war in Ukraine, the uncertainty surrounding global crude supplies could cause prices to fluctuate and possibly move higher during July.
“The largest weekly decline in 2022 for fuel prices is good news for drivers, but we’re not out of the woods just yet,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Gas prices will remain elevated compared to one year ago and could fluctuate in July, which is typically one of the busiest months in Texas for road trips and fuel demand.”
Currently, drivers in Texas are paying the 6th lowest price for gas in the country, according to gasprices.com. By comparison, drivers in California pay the most, $6.19/per gallon. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas-sees-largest-weekly-price-drop-for-gas-this-year-according-to-aaa-texas-fuel-pump-san-antonio-gasoline-travel/273-44dbfcf7-1e2a-433f-b7c2-97287d95c047 | 2022-07-07T21:53:54 | 1 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas-sees-largest-weekly-price-drop-for-gas-this-year-according-to-aaa-texas-fuel-pump-san-antonio-gasoline-travel/273-44dbfcf7-1e2a-433f-b7c2-97287d95c047 |
SAN ANTONIO — Authorities are investigating the deaths of two relatives whose bodies were discovered with gunshot wounds after a fire broke out at their west-side apartment-style home overnight, San Antonio officials said.
The call came in around 12:21 a.m. on Waverly near North Zarzamora Street.
When crews arrived shortly after, they found the home engulfed in flames, preventing them from entering right away. Once they were able to make entry, they found a man and a woman dead.
The victims have been identified by family members as Raquel Martinez, 51, and her nephew Sergio Soto, 39.
An official cause of death has yet to be determined for Martinez and Soto, according to SAPD Sgt. Washington Moscoso, adding that "many casings" were processed at the scene. He said that while there were no calls for shootings in the area Wednesday night, SAPD's homicide unit was at the scene—which Moscoso said was out of the norm.
"There was more to it last night, which is why our homicide unit made it out there," the sergeant said, without elaborating.
SAPD didn’t say if they were looking for any suspects at the moment.
Meanwhile, arson investigators are looking into what caused the blaze.
SAFD spokesperson Joe Arrington said at the scene that the fire started in the back of the home. Fire crews received multiple calls early in the morning with one person even running to Fire Station 10, which is just down the street, to report the fire.
Crews said they did come across some challenges trying to put the fire out, as it was a tight space.
Arrington said there was no clutter, but wants to remind people to stay prepared. "It’s important to remind everyone, obviously now, check to make sure you have working smoke detectors. Please visit Fire Safe SA for home safety tips, as well as to request a smoke detector.”
You can find that information here. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/two-people-dead-house-fire-west-san-antonio-texas-waverly-zarzamora/273-05a13d97-7c7c-4d03-9891-2215c955fbbb | 2022-07-07T21:54:00 | 1 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/two-people-dead-house-fire-west-san-antonio-texas-waverly-zarzamora/273-05a13d97-7c7c-4d03-9891-2215c955fbbb |
Emmet County Sheriff's Department searching for runaway teen
Tess Ware
The Petoskey News-Review
The Emmet County Sheriff's Department is searching for Steven Dylan-Roy Vannortrick, age 15, 6’, 170 lbs., shaved head on both sides with a dark blue Mohawk pulled back into a ponytail.
Vannortrick was reported missing on July 1 and was last seen around 7 p.m. in the Brutus area of Emmet County.
The sheriff’s office believes he is with friends in the Cadillac area.
There is no new information as of 3:45 p.m. on Thursday.
If you have any information on his whereabouts, please contact your local law enforcement agency or contact the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office at (231) 439-8900.
Contact reporter Tess Ware at tware@petoskeynews.com. Follow her on Twitter, @Tess_Petoskey | https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/news/local/2022/07/07/emmet-county-sheriffs-department-searching-runaway-teen/10007439002/ | 2022-07-07T21:54:02 | 1 | https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/news/local/2022/07/07/emmet-county-sheriffs-department-searching-runaway-teen/10007439002/ |
DALLAS — Water utility crews spent Thursday afternoon trying to repair a water main break in a neighborhood in southern Dallas.
Neighbors became alarmed when water began shooting from a hole in the street along Lazy River Drive. Homeowner Donald Campbell said he woke up to loud sounds as the gushing water showered his home and flooded his vehicles.
“Thunder! Water. It was like boom! Rocks, coming all over top my house. I said something ain’t right,” Campbell explained as he watched the water flooding the front of his home.
Neighbors watched the water shooting from the street for several hours.
”I had the garage up too. I go into the garage, and water just flushed in,” Campbell said as the water continued shooting from the ground.
Dallas Water Utilities workers described the problem as a break in a six-inch water main.
The break wasn’t the only emergency on the street. Firefighters responded to a house down the block.
“This house was on fire, and so we saw the ambulances and the fire truck come. When they turned the water hydrant on to set it out, that’s when the water pressure sparked the water down there,” said neighbor Latoya Johnson.
Dallas Fire Rescue workers said the house fire was separate from the water main break.
Some areas along Lazy River Drive appeared to be buckling, as city crews responded to the water main break. Police helped block off the street until water utilities crews arrived.
“That’s a lot of water. I said why they don’t cut the water off. I’ve been waiting, and waiting, and waiting, and waiting. I said well, don’t panic. Don’t panic,” Campbell explained.
After several hours, Dallas Water Utilities arrived with a backhoe. They used heavy equipment to plug the hole in the street and divert the water from shooting onto Campbell’s house.
Workers said they were trying to minimize shutting off water to any homes in the area while they made repairs.
“Have a lot of insurance. Please get the insurance,” Campbell advised as he watched city crews arrive.
The homeowner said he’s spoken to his insurance agency, and is confident it will investigate the damage. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/water-main-break-flooding-dallas-home/287-3861e552-c21f-4f92-a346-8b7b5d6f7922 | 2022-07-07T21:54:36 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/water-main-break-flooding-dallas-home/287-3861e552-c21f-4f92-a346-8b7b5d6f7922 |
Scottish prosecutor: New fingerprints confirm Nicholas Alahverdian's identity
The jig appears to be up for Nicholas Alahverdian.
After seven months of incessant denials that he’s the international fugitive arrested in Scotland on a Utah rape charge, a new set of fingerprints has confirmed his identity, a Scottish prosecutor said Thursday.
The stunning change in fortune for Alahverdian came in a Glasgow court where prosecutor Julie Clark said fingerprints taken from Alahverdian’s arrest Tuesday for threatening two hospital nurses, matched those previously identified as Alahverdian’s.
"Fingerprints taken when he was arrested for this matter were confirmed to be Nicholas Rossi,” she said, referring to Alahverdian by the last name he once used.
Over Alahverdian's repeated outbursts, a Scottish judge then revoked the Rhode Island con man’s bail, agreeing with a prosecutor that his recent attempts to delay his extradition hearing, his fake reports of suffering seizures – and new charges of threatening two hospital nurses – make him a flight risk.
“He’s proven he can’t be trusted, and therefore he should be remanded in custody,” said Clark.
Sheriff Gerard MacMillan agreed, telling the agitated Alahverdian, who sat before him in a wheelchair, dressed in a gown and slippers and using an oxygen mask: “I feel you may abscond and fail to appear.”
Scottish patience with the convicted sex offender who faked his death in 2020 appeared to be growing thin.
Prosecutors in his extradition proceedings in Edinburgh were already threatening to seek his bail revocation when on Tuesday he was arrested for threatening two nurses.
More:Nicholas Alahverdian faces another rape allegation from English woman he met online
Alahverdian, 34, had been in the hospital since last Thursday after an ambulance crew took him from his Glasgow flat hours before a scheduled extradition hearing.
Scottish prosecutor:Nicholas Alahverdian refuses to give DNA sample or fingerprints
In a phone interview with The Journal last week, Alahverdian said he had COVID again, the same infection that hospitalized him in December when Interpol authorities caught up to him. He also complained of having seizures that made it impossible for him to attend his hearings.
Then Tuesday he began screaming at two nurses, approaching them “like a raging bull, red-faced and cursing,” prosecutor Clark said Thursday.
He was arrested then and held in police custody pending his court appearance Thursday.
More:Nicholas Alahverdian channels Winston Churchill as he tries to rally England to his defense
Authorities' frustrations building
The stunning change in fortune for Alahverdian – who has professed to being an innocent Englishman, "Arthur Knight," trapped in a tragic case of mistaken identity – comes after weeks of frustration shared by Scottish prosecutors as well as law-enforcement officials on both sides of the ocean.
Prosecutors have complained in court that he was attempting to delay his extradition proceedings by refusing to voluntarily submit to fingerprinting and DNA sampling, defying orders to appear in Edinburgh Sheriff Court (often checking himself into a hospital instead), and failing to produce any identifying documents.
One document entered into his case, an Irish driver’s license, appeared to be a forgery, a prosecutor said last week.
Alahverdian had been on bail since Interpol authorities arrested him Dec. 13 at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, where the one-time Rhode Island State House advocate for child-welfare reform was being treated for COVID.
At the time, Utah authorities said DNA and photographs of Alahverdian's distinctive tattoos had been used to tie him to the 2008 rape of a former girlfriend in Orem, Utah.
The FBI had been looking for him since at least 2019 on fraud charges, accusing him of taking out two dozen credit cards in his former foster father’s name and running up $200,000 in debts.
Death faked, and then flight to Europe
An FBI agent spoke to Alahverdian over the phone in December 2019. In plotting his fake death later that month – supposedly from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma – Alahverdian told reporters that he was living out of the country for fear of threats he had received because of his State House advocacy work.
But law-enforcement officials have also described Alahverdian as a serial sex abuser, with women in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Ohio and Utah filing allegations against him.
In Ohio, in a span of two weeks in 2008, two woman accused Alahverdian of virtually identical attacks. In one case, a student at Sinclair Community College, sought his prosecution and Alahverdian was convicted of misdemeanor sexual imposition and public indecency.
Months later, a 21-year-old woman in Orem, Utah, told police Alahverdian had raped her. As in more than a half-dozen other assault allegations, the woman said she met him on a dating website.
Alahverdian’s extradition hearing is scheduled to continue next week.
Email Tom Mooney at: tmooney@providencejournal.com | https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/07/07/nicholas-alahverdian-fingerprints-match-suspect-scotland-arthur-knight/7811806001/ | 2022-07-07T21:54:45 | 1 | https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/07/07/nicholas-alahverdian-fingerprints-match-suspect-scotland-arthur-knight/7811806001/ |
WATERLOO — A Waterloo man has been arrested for allegedly breaking into a restaurant after hours last month.
Police arrested Julien Romondo Phifer Jr., 28, on Wednesday on charges of third-degree burglary. Bond was set at $5,000.
Court records allege Phifer entered Noodles & Company, 2833 Crossroads Blvd., around 2 a.m. on June 10. He allegedly took something from a desk inside the business and left.
The crime was captured by video surveillance, according to court records.
Police obtained a warrant in the case in June. On Wednesday, Phifer was detained after he allegedly put $20 worth of items into his backpack without paying while at the Kwik Star on West Ninth Street. He was charged with fifth-degree theft.
Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa
Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa
Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa
Unemployment rates, while significantly lower than the alarming pandemic peak of 14.7% experienced in April 2020, remain a subject of concern, notably as economic experts bandy around the idea of a potential recession by 2023. The last economic recession—the Great Recession of 2008-2010—sent rates up to 10% as of October 2009. It was not until the spring of 2019 that unemployment finally went down to the same level it sits at now.
As of May of this year, national unemployment is at 3.6%—as it was in both March and April, marking a three-month stagnation—following a steady drop since that aforementioned COVID-affected peak. Seasonally adjusted unemployment rates by state demonstrate a rather sizable spectrum , ranging from just 1.9% in Nebraska and Utah, to 5.3% in New Mexico and 5.8% in the District of Columbia. Further breakdown by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows yet another county-based spectrum within each state.
To that end, Stacker compiled a list of counties with the highest unemployment rate in Iowa using data from the BLS . Counties are ranked by unemployment rate in April 2022, which as of this writing is the most current Bureau data.
You may also like: Iowa is the #2 state with the most people living near toxic release facilities
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#50. Cedar County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.08%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 10,524 (219 unemployed)
Kevin Schuchmann // Wikimedia Commons
#49. Franklin County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.08%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 5,622 (117 unemployed)
Rudi Weikard // Wikimedia Commons
#48. Guthrie County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.10%
--- 1 month change: -1.7%
--- 1 year change: -2.4%
- Total labor force: 5,573 (117 unemployed)
Nst101 // Wikimedia Commons
#47. Clay County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.10%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.7%
- Total labor force: 8,509 (179 unemployed)
JNix // Shutterstock
#46. Van Buren County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.11%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 3,693 (78 unemployed)
You may also like: Most popular girl names in the 80s in Iowa
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#45. Union County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.11%
--- 1 month change: -1.5%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 6,147 (130 unemployed)
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#44. Chickasaw County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.13%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -1.6%
- Total labor force: 6,473 (138 unemployed)
Bobak Ha'Eri // Wikimedia Commons
#43. Appanoose County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.14%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 6,088 (130 unemployed)
Jim Roberts // Wikimedia Commons
#42. Emmet County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.14%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -2.0%
- Total labor force: 4,914 (105 unemployed)
Phinn // Wikimedia Commons
#40. Hardin County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.16%
--- 1 month change: -1.6%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 7,900 (171 unemployed)
Daniel Schwen // Wikimedia Commons
#39. Woodbury County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.22%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 54,996 (1,223 unemployed)
Tony Webster // Wikicommons
#38. Henry County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.27%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 9,624 (218 unemployed)
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers // Wikimedia Commons
#37. Polk County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.27%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.6%
- Total labor force: 271,453 (6,155 unemployed)
Lauren Shufelberger // Wikimedia Commons
#36. Cerro Gordo County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.30%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 22,158 (509 unemployed)
You may also like: Highest NFL draft picks from Iowa
Dan Breyfogle // Wikimedia Commons
#35. Poweshiek County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.30%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 10,664 (245 unemployed)
Smallbones // Wikimedia Commons
#34. Benton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.31%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.2%
- Total labor force: 12,764 (295 unemployed)
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#33. Butler County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.32%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -1.5%
- Total labor force: 8,052 (187 unemployed)
Chris Pruitt // Wikimedia Commons
#32. Wright County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.34%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 6,709 (157 unemployed)
Ann Sullivan-Larson // Wikimedia Commons
#31. Winnebago County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.35%
--- 1 month change: -0.8%
--- 1 year change: -3.8%
- Total labor force: 4,887 (115 unemployed)
You may also like: Best private high schools in Iowa
Alexbaumgarner // Wikimedia
#30. Jasper County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.36%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 18,670 (441 unemployed)
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#29. Monona County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.36%
--- 1 month change: -1.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 4,440 (105 unemployed)
JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD // Wikimedia Commons
#28. Dubuque County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.37%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 55,030 (1,305 unemployed)
FluffyGryphon // Wikimedia Commons
#27. Worth County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.40%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.2%
- Total labor force: 4,005 (96 unemployed)
Canva
#26. Hamilton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.40%
--- 1 month change: -0.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 6,959 (167 unemployed)
You may also like: Most popular baby names for girls in Iowa
Ebyabe // Wikimedia Commons
#25. Black Hawk County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.42%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 68,561 (1,658 unemployed)
David Wilson // Wikimedia
#24. Clarke County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.43%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -2.0%
- Total labor force: 4,856 (118 unemployed)
Altairisfar // Wikimedia Commons
#23. Muscatine County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.44%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.7%
- Total labor force: 20,549 (501 unemployed)
Thug outlaw69 // Wikimedia Commons
#22. Webster County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.44%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.3%
- Total labor force: 18,414 (450 unemployed)
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers // Wikimedia Commons
#21. Louisa County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.45%
--- 1 month change: -1.4%
--- 1 year change: -1.7%
- Total labor force: 5,848 (143 unemployed)
You may also like: Recipes from Iowa
USFWSmidwest // Wikimedia Commons
#20. Dickinson County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.45%
--- 1 month change: -1.5%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 10,090 (247 unemployed)
TheCatalyst31 // Wikimedia Commons
#19. Floyd County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.47%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.2%
- Total labor force: 8,204 (203 unemployed)
Thomson200 // Wikimedia Commons
#18. Madison County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.48%
--- 1 month change: -2.0%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 8,622 (214 unemployed)
Pixabay
#17. Howard County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.52%
--- 1 month change: -1.7%
--- 1 year change: -1.3%
- Total labor force: 5,201 (131 unemployed)
Valis55 // Wikimedia Commons
#15. Wapello County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.55%
--- 1 month change: -1.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.7%
- Total labor force: 16,934 (432 unemployed)
en:User:Cburnett // Wikimedia Commons
#14. Linn County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.56%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.9%
- Total labor force: 117,754 (3,020 unemployed)
Jim Roberts // Wikimedia Commons
#13. Tama County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.65%
--- 1 month change: -2.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 9,223 (244 unemployed)
Bill Whittaker // Wikimedia Commons
#12. Jones County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.65%
--- 1 month change: -1.8%
--- 1 year change: -1.8%
- Total labor force: 10,173 (270 unemployed)
Bubba73 // Wikimedia Commons
#10. Scott County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.74%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -3.3%
- Total labor force: 88,797 (2,430 unemployed)
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#9. Jackson County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.74%
--- 1 month change: -1.6%
--- 1 year change: -2.5%
- Total labor force: 10,718 (294 unemployed)
Springfieldohio // Wikimedia Commons
#8. Winneshiek County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.79%
--- 1 month change: -1.6%
--- 1 year change: -1.5%
- Total labor force: 11,996 (335 unemployed)
Jonathunder // Wikimedia Commons
#7. Clayton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.82%
--- 1 month change: -3.0%
--- 1 year change: -2.1%
- Total labor force: 9,581 (270 unemployed)
Thomson200 // Wikimedia Commons
#6. Clinton County
- Current unemployment rate: 2.87%
--- 1 month change: -1.2%
--- 1 year change: -2.6%
- Total labor force: 22,038 (633 unemployed)
You may also like: Highest-earning counties in Iowa
Nyttend // Wikimedia Commons
#5. Allamakee County
- Current unemployment rate: 3.21%
--- 1 month change: -1.9%
--- 1 year change: -1.5%
- Total labor force: 7,111 (228 unemployed)
Idawriter // Wikimedia Commons
#4. Crawford County
- Current unemployment rate: 3.23%
--- 1 month change: -2.3%
--- 1 year change: -1.9%
- Total labor force: 7,956 (257 unemployed)
Brandonrush // Wikimedia Commons
#3. Des Moines County
- Current unemployment rate: 3.88%
--- 1 month change: -1.1%
--- 1 year change: -2.7%
- Total labor force: 18,114 (702 unemployed)
Ian Poellet // Wikimedia Commons
#2. Lee County
- Current unemployment rate: 4.09%
--- 1 month change: -0.3%
--- 1 year change: -2.0%
- Total labor force: 15,243 (624 unemployed)
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Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/one-arrested-in-break-in-at-noodles/article_df378566-a4b9-528e-aa75-972caef01ca6.html | 2022-07-07T21:55:08 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/one-arrested-in-break-in-at-noodles/article_df378566-a4b9-528e-aa75-972caef01ca6.html |
FREDERICKSBURG — Plum Creek Art/Connie Mohr Gallery is hosting a new special exhibit by photographer Justin D. Allen that will continue through September.
An artist reception will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at the gallery, 115 W. Main St. Meet Allen, view his work and enjoy refreshments. Admission is free.
Allen grew up in Fredericksburg and was a 2010 graduate of Sumner Fredericksburg High School. He got his start in photography as a high school student when a Sumner Lions Club scholarship allowed him to buy his first good quality digital camera.
He works in printing and production of photographs and books at Century College in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and has had many professional exhibitions of his photography. He completed his bachelor’s of fine art at the University of Northern Iowa and begins graduate school at the University of Minnesota this fall.
“The old saying goes, ‘You never plant a tree for yourself,’” he said. “I help people, giving them directions on who to get to the plant trees and encourage them to plant trees."
'John is a delight to work with, and we will miss his wit, his commitment, his knowledge and the incredible way he has of involving people in this organization he loves.' | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/plum-creek-art-hosts-photo-exhibit/article_9c76474f-243a-5699-bd57-6ed846d8df5f.html | 2022-07-07T21:55:14 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/plum-creek-art-hosts-photo-exhibit/article_9c76474f-243a-5699-bd57-6ed846d8df5f.html |
ALLISON — Sugar Daddys Jazz Band will perform 7 p.m. Wednesday, kicking off free concerts at Wilder Park.
The group, celebrating its 35th anniversary, plays Dixieland, jazz, big band and swing. It has performed at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, the Metro Community Concert Series, Waverly Heritage Days, the Shell Rock Swing Show and various fundraising events. Dawn Sunberg will be featured vocalist
Maid-Rites, hot dogs, walking tacos, pies, and other desserts will be served by Lizzy Lous. The city’s park board will sell popcorn and assorted drinks. Bring a lawn chair for seating. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/sugar-daddys-to-perform-free-concert-wednesday-at-allisons-wilder-park/article_b1e465b8-9382-504b-93bb-379b38db2516.html | 2022-07-07T21:55:20 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/sugar-daddys-to-perform-free-concert-wednesday-at-allisons-wilder-park/article_b1e465b8-9382-504b-93bb-379b38db2516.html |
WATERLOO — Veridian Credit Union is reducing overdraft fees and refunding future fees for returned items in a recent change to overdraft policies.
The credit union’s fee per overdraft has dropped from $32 to $20 and fees for returned items will now be fully and automatically refunded.
Veridian’s overdraft policy offers a menu of options that allow members to avoid unwanted overdraft fees and choose how their accounts will respond when transactions are attempted without sufficient funds in their checking account. Veridian members can choose to cover an overdrawn account with funds from another account or an interest-bearing line of credit – both for no fee. They can also choose for such transactions to be returned or allow their account to be overdrawn. The reduced fees come one month after Veridian announced its new Early Direct Deposit service, making members’ electronic payroll available up to two days before payday. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/veridian-reducing-overdraft-fees-changing-policy-on-returned-items/article_3c9add75-0636-542f-9ef2-47acdb9c9abf.html | 2022-07-07T21:55:26 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/veridian-reducing-overdraft-fees-changing-policy-on-returned-items/article_3c9add75-0636-542f-9ef2-47acdb9c9abf.html |
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A teen bitten by a shark off the coast of the Florida Panhandle last week is recovering in the hospital and surrounded by her family.
The attack happened near Keaton Beach and after several surgeries and days in the hospital, Addison Bethea, 17, had her leg partially amputated Wednesday night.
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Her mother, Michelle Murphy, and brother, Rhett Willingham, said the teen was scalloping last Thursday when a shark attacked.
“She came up and she was screaming and I could see the shark’s tail on her and there was blood coming out from under her. So I swam over there and tried to separate them as best as I could,” said Willingham.
Willingham, a firefighter in Taylor County, said he fought the shark off, swam Addison to a nearby boat and tied on a tourniquet. On the way back to land, he said he called dispatch explaining the situation and once they docked, a helicopter was waiting to take them from Keaton Beach to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
Murphy, a Satellite Beach resident, got the call and drove up to be with her daughter.
“She immediately went into surgery. It was a trauma case. It was really bad,” she said.
Doctors estimated it was a nine-foot shark that latched onto Addison’s leg.
“They managed to save her lower leg which is the reason now she will be able to wear a prosthetic,” said Murphy.
Addison will get a prosthetic and her family said, hopefully, she’ll be able to leave the hospital soon.
“She’s got a great attitude. She’s accepted it. She’s got deep faith and this was God’s plan for her for whatever reason, and she’s going to do something positive out of this,” said Murphy.
A GoFundMe with hundreds of donations already was set up to fund all the expenses.
Her family said she’s received an outpouring of love from across the state, even a special message from pro surfer and shark attack survivor Bethany Hamilton.
Murphy said the high school cheerleader and tennis player is eager to recover and even hopes to get back in the water soon.
“She has a good outlook about this and she wants to get back to her life and I think she will. She’s already talked about going back out scalloping with Rhett,” said Murphy. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/brevard-county-family-helps-teen-recover-from-panhandle-shark-attack/ | 2022-07-07T21:57:27 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/brevard-county-family-helps-teen-recover-from-panhandle-shark-attack/ |
OCALA, Fla. – It was crunch time for Ocala Fire Rescue Thursday when they put out a fire in a trailer carrying about 40,000 pounds of potato chips.
Firefighters said they responded to Outlaw Snax, located at 3031 W. Silver Springs Blvd., shortly before 2 p.m.
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Upon arrival, crews said they found a detached trailer filled with chips consumed in flames.
No one was hurt, but the chips could not be saved.
No injuries were reported, fire rescue said.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/chip-off-the-ol-trailer-container-storing-40000-pounds-of-potato-chips-catches-fire-in-ocala/ | 2022-07-07T21:57:33 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/chip-off-the-ol-trailer-container-storing-40000-pounds-of-potato-chips-catches-fire-in-ocala/ |
ORLANDO, Fla – A Florida man was arrested, accused of stabbing his girlfriend after she confronted him about cheating on Tuesday, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office said.
Jesus Figueroa Lopez, 42, was confronted about cheating after his partner saw him talking on the phone with an unknown female, according to the arrest affidavit.
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Deputies said after being confronted, he was asked by his partner to pack his belongings and leave. Lopez said he was going to leave but he was going to kill her first.
Deputies said he punched the victim in the chest and stomach, and then grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed her in the chest, deputies said.
After the incident, Lopez panicked and he agreed with the victim to call 911 with the plan of saying that she stabbed herself, according to the affidavit.
This is the third incident of domestic battery that has occurred involving both parties, deputies said.
Lopez is booked at the Orange County jail with no bond and was charged with attempted second-degree murder, according to deputies. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/florida-man-stabs-girlfriend-after-she-confronted-him-about-cheating-deputies-say/ | 2022-07-07T21:57:39 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/florida-man-stabs-girlfriend-after-she-confronted-him-about-cheating-deputies-say/ |
LOS ANGELES — James Caan, the Oscar-nominated actor known for roles in “The Godfather,” ”Brian’s Song,’’ “Misery,’’ and ”Elf,’’ died Wednesday at age 82. Caan’s death drew tributes and expressions of grief from industry colleagues and fans.
“I’m very very sad to hear about Jimmy’s passing.” — Robert De Niro, who starred in 1974’s “The Godfather: Part II,” in a statement.
“Team Mates and friends till the end. RIP Jimmy.” — Billy Dee Williams, who starred with Caan in the 1971 TV football movie “Brian’s Song,” via Twitter.
“Loved him very much. Always wanted to be like him. So happy I got to know him. Never ever stopped laughing when I was around that man. His movies were best of the best.” — Adam Sandler, via Twitter.
“I’m so sorry to hear about Jimmy. He was so talented.” — Barbra Streisand, who starred with Caan in the 1975 movie “Funny Lady,” via Twitter.
“Was lucky enough, after a lifetime of loving his work, to get to work with him and I loved him as a person even more. Funny, warm, self-deprecating, and effortlessly talented. They say never meet your heroes, but he proved that to be very very wrong.” — Andy Richter, who appeared with Caan in the 2003 movie “Elf,” via Twitter.
“Heartbroken for his family & his friends. Wonderful to know him & call him a pal. Jimmy was so supportive of Gary Sinise Foundation & my work w/ our veterans. He will be missed. Thank you my friend.” — Gary Sinise, via Twitter.
“Always a fun guy to be around. He was always supportive of my career. He even did a cameo in my tv special and got Robert Duvall to be in it. A highlight of my career. God bless James Caan. — Jon Lovitz, via Twitter.
“I will always remember him not only as a brilliant actor but as a man of humor & warmth playing with my 1 year old son on set.” — Jill Hennessy, who appeared with Caan in the TV series, “Las Vegas,” via Twitter.
“So sad about Jimmy Caan. He was a legend. He was always kind to me. Sending his family my love.” — Maria Shriver, via Twitter. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/celebrities-react-to-godfather-star-james-caans-death/2022/07/07/d716c7a4-fe31-11ec-b39d-71309168014b_story.html | 2022-07-07T21:57:45 | 1 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/celebrities-react-to-godfather-star-james-caans-death/2022/07/07/d716c7a4-fe31-11ec-b39d-71309168014b_story.html |
A state program created after a special legislative session on property insurance is supposed to pass on savings to consumers.
A state statute required insurers to file their potential savings with the Office of Insurance regulation by June 30. Many companies have filed and there are reductions, but experts believe you might not see it in your premiums.
Bronson and Elizabeth Collins said the latest increase in their property insurance premium was jaw-dropping.
“We were shocked and angry at such an increase,” Elizabeth Collins said.
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“I renewed my premium,” Bronson Collins said. “And it had increased 46%.”
The 88-year-old said it went from $1,640 a year to $2,473.
“It just seemed unreasonable to see that much at one time,” Bronson Collins said.
The couple is by no means alone.
After a special legislative session, lawmakers passed SB-2D.
“Insurers that participate in the Reinsurance to Assist Policyholders or ‘RAP” program,” this year “shall reduce its rates to reflect the cost savings realized by participating in the program,” according to the statute.
Reinsurance is basically insurance for insurance companies, and like everything else, the cost has increased, according to insurers.
The idea behind the legislation is if insurers get reinsurance from the state that they don’t have to pay for, they’ll pass that savings along to consumers.
Insurers were required by statute to file those rate reductions “no later than June 30,” according to the statute.
“Unless we get some relief from the state. I don’t think it’s going to get better with any insurance company,” Bronson Collins said.
News 6 has learned that 69 insurance companies filed those rate reductions with the Office of Insurance Regulation.
We randomly selected a handful of companies to analyze.
Safepoint Insurance is proposing a 1.3% reduction in premium.
National Specialty Insurance Company is proposing a 2.6% reduction.
Slide Insurance company — a 5.7 % reduction.
American Reliable Insurance is proposing a 1.3% premium reduction.
There are highs and lows, but most companies seem to fall in the 1-2% percent range.
Paul Handerhan is the President of the Federal Association for Insurance Reform.
“If the rate benefit was a 1% reduction in costs, that’s not really meaningful,” Handerhan said.
These rate reductions, likely will not lead to you paying less for your premiums, according to Handerhan.
“You’re not going to go to the mailbox, pull your latest insurance renewal and see your rates going down.
For example, the Collins’ company has not filed a rate reduction for this year, but their latest increase in premiums was 46%, and his insurer requested a 48% increase from the Office of Insurance Regulation for next year — so reducing 1-2% wouldn’t really move the needle.
“If the goal was to reduce rates for consumers, certainly that’s not materializing,” Handerhan said.
“I just wonder how much money they wasted having their special session. I don’t think anything was accomplished,” Bronson said.
Republicans, who wrote and supported the legislation, said people should start seeing a decrease in their property insurance premiums in 12-18 months.
Meantime, if you would like to check to see if your insurer has filed a rate reduction, click here and follow these steps:
- Click the “Advanced Search” tab at the top of the page.
- Select “Property & Casualty”
- In the Keywords box enter “SB 2D: RAP Filing” and hit search.
- Companies will appear under the results tab.
- Find your company then click the arrow on the far left of the company’s name.
- Next click, the documents symbol under “Filing Actions.”
- Request the Explanatory Memorandum or the Actuarial memorandum. You will have to enter your email address and prove that you are not a robot by answering a numerical question, then the document will be emailed to you.
You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/florida-property-insurers-file-rate-reductions-with-state/ | 2022-07-07T21:57:46 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/07/florida-property-insurers-file-rate-reductions-with-state/ |
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