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ECTOR COUNTY, Texas — The Ector County Sheriff's Office will be holding a food drive for Jesus House Odessa.
The food drive will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until July 26.
The Sheriff's Office is looking for people to bring nonperishable food items to 221 N Texas Ave or in the lobby of the Ector County Sheriff's Office on 2500 S. Hwy 385.
This is all part of a competition between the city and county departments. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/ector-county-sheriffs-office-holds-food-drive-for-jesus-house/513-f22991e4-025c-4aa1-be66-308365a70cb4 | 2022-07-21T16:51:37 | 0 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/ector-county-sheriffs-office-holds-food-drive-for-jesus-house/513-f22991e4-025c-4aa1-be66-308365a70cb4 |
PECOS, Texas — The Crockett Middle School track in the Pecos-Barstow-Toyah Independent School District has officially reopened to the public on July 21.
The track has been closed since January 2022 as they worked on resurfacing the track and converted the field into Astro Turf.
“PBTISD wanted only the best for our Eagles when converting the CMS Field,” said Superintendent Brent Jaco. “We are excited to have this outstanding field and track for our students. As the district has done in the past, the facility will be shared with the Pecos community. We hope everyone that uses this facility enjoys and respects the area.”
There has been a new set of rules presented by the district to the public in regards to the new track. Some of those include no gum, tobacco, sunflower seeds, bicycles, skateboards, skates, rollerblades, dogs, metal cleats, golfing and glass bottles are allowed on the field. Only plastic water bottles are allowed on the field.
The field will stay open to the public except during school hours, athletic practices and school-scheduled events. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/pbtisd-reopens-new-crockett-middle-school-track-on-july-21/513-34d3ee99-15e9-4a0a-82c0-f2991389b0d9 | 2022-07-21T16:51:43 | 0 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/pbtisd-reopens-new-crockett-middle-school-track-on-july-21/513-34d3ee99-15e9-4a0a-82c0-f2991389b0d9 |
BOSTON — One passenger jumped into a river and several others climbed out of windows when a Boston public transit train caught fire during its Thursday morning commute, officials said. The incident is the latest in a string of dangerous problems with the troubled system.
No injuries were reported, and the person who jumped into the water declined medical attention, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority said in a statement.
The MBTA's inbound Orange Line train was crossing the Mystic River just north of Boston, approaching Assembly station in Somerville at about 6:45 a.m. when flames and smoke were spotted coming from the lead car, the statement said. About 200 passengers were on board, and most were walked off the train to a nearby station by MBTA personnel.
After the power was turned off, the train was brought to a railyard for an investigation, and infrastructure is being inspected. The MBTA has notified the Federal Transit Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.
The train in question was 43 years old, MBTA spokesperson Joe Pesaturo said, and not one of several new Orange Line cars that were temporarily pulled from service recently when one car experienced a failure in its battery compartment. They have since been returned to service.
The FTA launched a review of Boston’s subway system in April following several accidents that led to injuries or death within the past year. The federal agency last month issued a series of directives to immediately address “longstanding issues” with the system’s “overall safety program and safety culture.” | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/passengers-climb-out-of-windows-during-boston-train-fire-mbta-the-t/97-971fbece-c036-43fe-b65b-328cff546871 | 2022-07-21T16:54:36 | 1 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/passengers-climb-out-of-windows-during-boston-train-fire-mbta-the-t/97-971fbece-c036-43fe-b65b-328cff546871 |
Congressman Peter DeFazio has been honored many times during his long career representing the Fourth Congressional District. But one of the biggest honors of his career came Wednesday when the official portrait showcasing his time as chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee was revealed.
“Yesterday was kind of a big day for me,” DeFazio said Thursday during a press briefing with media.
“We did the portrait unveiling in the Transportation and Infrastructure building.”
The portrait, painted by Eugene artist Lynda Lanker, will hang in Washington, D.C., honoring DeFazio’s term as chair. He was named chairman of the committee in 2019 and will serve until he retires early next year.
The painting shows the congressman with the gavel he uses to chair the committee. In the background is a photo of the Patterson Bridge that spans the Rogue River heading into Gold Beach. DeFazio said he wanted the bridge in the portrait because it showcases the work he did in Congress.
He explained at one time, the Oregon Department of Transportation was talking about tearing the historic bridge down, before DeFazio stepped in.
“I got an $11 million earmark to rehabilitate that bridge,” he said. “It’s good for another 50 years at least, probably 100.”
As for DeFazio, his time as Oregon’s longest-serving congressman is coming to an end. But he promised not to leave quietly.
“I’m still working and I’ve got a lot to get done,” he said.
Even when he does retire, DeFazio said he will continue to work on issues that are important to him.
“I’m going to look for things to continue to be involved on a positive side to continue to help America and Americans,” he said.
But in retirement, he also has other plans, plans much closer to home.
“I’ve created 390,000 acres of wilderness in Oregon,” DeFazio said. “I did the largest wild and scenic rivers bill in history. I intend to enjoy some of those things I’ve saved, particularly next summer. I’m looking forward to a summer I won’t be in D.C.”
While DeFazio said he is eyeing a future away from Congress, there are some elements he hopes to see made law before he leaves. He pointed specifically to climate change elements the Senate took out of the bipartisan infrastructure package before it was passed.
While the Senate has been hesitant to act, DeFazio said the Biden administration is using its power to put some of those elements into law, a move he applauds.
“They are moving ahead,” DeFazio said. “There were tools that were left to deal with greenhouse gases. They did take out my mandatory reduction element. Now they are going to implement it administratively. Maybe we should go after the root cause. The administration it taking that on. Good for them.” | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/defazio-receives-big-honor-in-d-c/article_2b1e6932-06c1-11ed-8067-8f06773b0384.html | 2022-07-21T17:03:55 | 1 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/defazio-receives-big-honor-in-d-c/article_2b1e6932-06c1-11ed-8067-8f06773b0384.html |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/explosion-at-plano-home-rocks-neighborhood-wednesday-night/3020485/ | 2022-07-21T17:04:00 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/explosion-at-plano-home-rocks-neighborhood-wednesday-night/3020485/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/north-texans-find-indoor-activities-to-escape-intense-heat/3020359/ | 2022-07-21T17:04:06 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/north-texans-find-indoor-activities-to-escape-intense-heat/3020359/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/rain-arrives-in-north-texas-the-connection/3020432/ | 2022-07-21T17:04:12 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/rain-arrives-in-north-texas-the-connection/3020432/ |
The family of a 9-year-old Houston girl who died after she was shot by a man who had opened fire when he was robbed at an ATM said Wednesday they remain angered by a grand jury's decision to not indict the man.
"That was not an accident. That was not self-defense," April Aguirre, the aunt of Arlene Alvarez said during a news conference as a photograph of the girl as she lay in a hospital bed bloodied and bandaged shortly before her death was shown.
Tony Earls, 41, had been charged with aggravated assault, and serious bodily injury, in Alvarez's Feb. 14 death. A Harris County grand jury in Houston on Tuesday could have indicted him on this charge or several others, including manslaughter and murder, but declined to do so.
However, the grand jury's decision was not a surprise as prosecutors' efforts, in this case, had little chance of success, according to a legal expert.
Texas law "gives very, very broad self-defense rights for people carrying guns, even if the person makes a mistake," said Sandra Guerra Thompson, a law professor at the University of Houston Law Center.
Earls and his wife were at an ATM to withdraw money when an unidentified robber pulled a gun on them and fled after taking $20, along with a check and their car keys, according to prosecutors.
Earls' attorneys said after their client go out of his car, the robber fired and Earls fired back in self-defense.
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Investigators say Earls fired at a truck thinking the robbery suspect had possibly climbed into it. But the vehicle was actually carrying Alvarez and her family as they went to the ATM to make a deposit before heading to a late dinner at a pizzeria. The girl was shot in the head and she later died at a hospital.
Earls' attorneys say their client continues to grieve for Alvarez but that the grand jury made the right decision and that the person responsible for her death is the robber.
"Mr. Earls did what we believe anyone in that situation would have done. We are relieved that, despite the emotion and tough decisions that had to be made in dealing with this case, justice was served for Mr. Earls," his attorneys, Myrecia Donaldson and Brennen Dunn, said in a statement.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said the grand jury's decision didn't mean "that you're innocent, Mr. Earls. It means that you were not held criminally accountable."
Gwen Alvarez, the girl's mother, tearfully said Tuesday the grand jury's decision left her feeling that "the system failed us."
"In my eyes, (Earls) is guilty because he was the one who decided to fire on our vehicle multiple times and he didn't stop until he ran out of bullets,"
Rick Ramos, the attorney for the Alvarez family, said Wednesday that Earls' actions were reckless and he questioned whether Earls was capable of carrying a weapon as his lawyers had indicated in court records that he had suffered from mental illness before the shooting.
But Thompson said issues of mental illness would not have made a difference in this case as Texas does not have red flag laws that would allow law enforcement or family members to ask a judge to order the seizure or surrender of guns from someone who is deemed dangerous, often because of mental health concerns or threats of violence. Last year, Texas lawmakers expanded gun rights by letting people carry handguns without first getting a background check and training.
Ramos said he plans to have an independent expert review the evidence and see if the case can be presented to another grand jury.
But Ogg said investigators planned to focus on finding the unidentified robber and holding him responsible for Alvarez's death, with authorities now offering a $30,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
"If Mr. Earls had shot the robber... we probably would be celebrating him," Thompson said. "But that wasn't the situation and unfortunately, tragically an innocent child was killed." | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/no-indictment-in-houston-shooting-death-of-girl-during-atm-robbery/3020436/ | 2022-07-21T17:04:19 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/no-indictment-in-houston-shooting-death-of-girl-during-atm-robbery/3020436/ |
An armed carjacking Thursday morning ended after a brief car chase with the suspect in custody and no reported injuries according to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department.
Sgt. David Wright said that deputies located a vehicle near the intersection of Green Bay Rd and Washington Rd at approximately 6:23 a.m. that the Kenosha Police Department had reported to be stolen during an armed carjacking earlier that day.
A brief car chase ensued for a few minutes before the suspect was apprehended and taken in to custody, Wright said. No injuries were reported. Wright said the KPD was still investigating the incident.
Lt. Joseph Nosalik with the KPD declined to comment on the initial carjacking and no additional information about the suspect was available by Thursday afternoon.
10 June photos from Kenosha News readers
Beautiful sunrise
Mike Devine shared this image from May 24 of a “beautiful sunrise at Simmons Island until the clouds rolled in. Then it was time for Franks Diner!” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
Memorial Day
Patricia Darnell shared this image, which was “taken the evening of Memorial Day.” The Southport Lighthouse light was shining for four Navy Ship Club 40 members “who died this past year,” she said. “My husband, Thomas (Mike) Darnell was one of the members named during the Memorial Day ceremony.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
There’s No Place Like Gnome
Bob Zoiss shared this image, which he calls “There’s No Place Like Gnome.” He took the photo “in my wife’s garden during this very colorful time of year.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
“After much needed days of rain"
Tom Zumann shared this image of a perfect June day. “After much needed days of rain,” he said, “it’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
A Memorial Day display
Jim and Mary Kay Schmidt shared this image of “a display set up for our Memorial Day Program at Twin Lakes American Legion Post 544.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
Clouds reflecting
Kristina DelFrate shared this image of clouds reflecting off a calm lake’s surface. The photo was “taken when fishing at Hastings Lake Forest Preserve in Lake Villa, Ill.,” DelFrate said. Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
Lincoln Park
Mike Devine shared this image, which he captured May 23. “This young man played some disc golf at Lincoln Park,” he said. “Nice to see people enjoying our beautiful parks.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
Lightening on the ocean
Ray Houte shared this image, taken on his recent vacation in Florida. “I had to get up at 1:30 a.m. to capture the lightning on the ocean,” he said. Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
Flags and flowers
Tom Zumann shared this image of “flags and flowers on Memorial Day Weekend.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
Sunrise on Lake Michigan
Jill Thompson shared this image, which she calls, “Sunrise on Lake Michigan.” She captured this image while “on Fade Away Charters to do some fishing — and caught a nice sunrise as well.” Do you have a photo to share? Email newsroom@kenoshanews.com .
Submitted Photo
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Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/armed-carjacking-in-kenosha-ends-with-car-chase-suspect-in-custody/article_1c00a67e-090d-11ed-8cb7-7bc73b59099b.html | 2022-07-21T17:05:47 | 1 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/armed-carjacking-in-kenosha-ends-with-car-chase-suspect-in-custody/article_1c00a67e-090d-11ed-8cb7-7bc73b59099b.html |
Former banker Russell Laffitte hit with federal indictments for conspiracy, wire fraud, bank fraud
A former Hampton County banker previously indicted on state grand jury charges in connection with disbarred South Carolina attorney Richard "Alex" Murdaugh has now been struck with federal indictments.
On Wednesday, the United States Attorney's Office in Charleston announced that a federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment charging Russell Lucius Laffitte with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, bank fraud, wire fraud, and misapplication of bank funds.
The indictment alleges that Laffitte conspired with Murdaugh, then a partner at a Hampton law firm, PMPED, to commit wire fraud and bank fraud while employed as CEO of Palmetto State Bank of Hampton. According to the charge, Laffitte and Murdaugh engaged in a scheme to defraud Murdaugh's personal injury clients and his law firm from funds held at Palmetto State Bank.
Specifically, the indictment alleges that Laffitte, while serving as conservator for two of Murdaugh's clients, extended $355,000 in personal loans to himself and $990,000 in personal loans to Murdaugh from client funds held at the Hampton bank, and much of these funds were used to cover overdrafts on Murdaugh's personal account.
Murders, mystery, money:Here's a timeline of the Murdaugh family killings
Alex Murdaugh case:What we know, and don't know, about the Alex Murdaugh crime saga
The indictment also alleges that, at Murdaugh's direction, Laffitte transferred the clients' disbursed settlement funds into bank money orders, cash, and other wire transfers while collecting $391,781.07 in fees for serving as conservator and personal representative for those clients.
Also, according to the indictment, on two occasions, Laffitte misapplied bank funds: on Oct. 28, 2021, Laffitte paid the law firm $680,000 without notice to or consent from PSB, knowing that he had fraudulently transferred the money to the bank customer. Finally, the indictment alleges that on July 15, 2021, Laffitte misapplied $750,000 of bank funds by extending an unsecured commercial loan to Murdaugh.
If convicted, Laffitte faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years on all federal charges, in addition to similar fraud and conspiracy charges levied against him by the state grand jury earlier this year.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Limehouse is prosecuting this case.
Laffitte indictment:Former Hampton Co. banker Laffitte indicted; more indictments for Murdaugh, Fleming
Laffitte was terminated from his position at PSB in January of 2022. His family founded the bank more than a hundred years ago.
On Wednesday, attorneys with Bland Richter LLP issued a news release stating that they now represent two of the clients allegedly defrauded by Laffitte and Murdaugh in the federal indictment, Alania Spohn and Hannah Plyler, who are sisters.
According to the release, on July 16, 2005, the sisters lost their mother and brother and suffered significant personal injuries in a tragic rollover automobile accident while they were underaged children. The children then placed their trust in Murdaugh, Laffitte and their institutions to "guide them in connection with the subsequent lawsuit, settlement and preservation of their settlement funds through the remainder of their childhood into adulthood," stated the release.
Dispatches from Hampton County:Remembering victims, lives lost in the Murdaugh crime saga
Lawsuit:Murdaugh, former bank CEO stole funds from family in fatal crash case, new lawsuit says
"As the years ensued, the girls viewed Russ Laffitte as a father figure and trusted him to navigate the waters ahead for them and to guide them. It is difficult to express the emotions and disappointment of learning years later that those who had sworn to protect the Plylers chose instead to prey upon them. Russ Laffitte and Alex Murdaugh plundered their conservator accounts and treated it like their own personal slush fund," the release added.
Attorneys Eric Bland and Ronald Richter Jr. added that the Plyler family is committed to providing investigators any cooperation needed and is grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s office for the charges that have been brought against Mr. Laffitte. | https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/south-carolina/2022/07/21/russell-laffitte-federal-indictments-conspiracy-wire-fraud-bank-fraud-alex-murdaugh/10113373002/ | 2022-07-21T17:06:51 | 1 | https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/south-carolina/2022/07/21/russell-laffitte-federal-indictments-conspiracy-wire-fraud-bank-fraud-alex-murdaugh/10113373002/ |
Stephen Smith remembered as unapologetic 'fallen warrior' for LGBTQ movement
Sandy Smith still doesn't know who killed her son, Stephen, in 2015, but she knows she is loved and supported and her "baby" will never be forgotten.
A graveside ceremony was held at Gooding Cemetery in Hampton County Sunday to unveil an ornate memorial headstone for Stephen Smith, who was found dead not far away on rural Sandy Run Road on July 8, 2015. During the event, the Smith family was surrounded by friends, loved ones, supporters and media.
"Today is totally amazing," said Sandy Smith. "It was worth the wait, and I want to thank everyone for the tremendous support. I never give up."
Smith's death was attributed to severe head trauma and controversially ruled a hit and run at the time, which the family and some investigators have disputed, and official investigations into his death stalled until 2021.
On June 23 of last year, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) opened a new investigation into Smith's death based on information gathered during the course of its investigation into the June 7, 2021, shooting deaths of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh in Colleton County.
What had been a cold case quickly became another intriguing piece of an international crime saga possibly involving Smith and other homicide victims, but the growing spotlight on Smith's case had a positive effect for his family.
After hearing of Smith's case and seeing news photos of his humble headstone, South Carolina resident Susanne Andrews, who didn't even know the family, helped launch #StandingForStephen to raise funds around the world for the gravesite monument that was unveiled Sunday, almost seven years to the week after his death.
"In seven years, this momma had not been able to give her baby a proper burial," said Andrews at the ceremony. "Today is not a typical memorial service. Today is a change for the Smith family. It is a day of happiness."
"Standing for Stephen has accomplished one part of we set out to do," she added. "Justice is due Stephen now, not later. It's time to finish this and let him rest in peace."
To date, no arrests have been made or suspects officially announced, and while the Smith family waits for answers and justice, SLED told The Hampton County Guardian last week that the homicide investigation remains "active and ongoing."
"This is really a big turning point," said an emotional Rachel Tuten, one of Stephen's high school and college friends. "He definitely deserved this. I definitely hope we continue to make progress and get justice."
Smith's attorney, Mike Hemlepp Jr., told The Guardian that SLED told the Smith family it is "making progress" in the case.
"I can't speculate about the timing, but we are very encouraged," Hemlepp said. "This is not a cold case. There are ongoing leads, and they are following them. I do think we are going to get answers."
Smith described as always being himself, unapologetic
Smith was described by family and friends as one who was not afraid to be himself.
"I always admired how he was himself, unapologetic," said Olivia Boyles, one of Stephen's high school friends. "He gave me the encouragement to come out my 10th grade year. It could have been me [who was killed]. It could be the next person like us."
Following Smith's death, his family publicly speculated that the homicide was a hate crime involving his sexuality. Hemlepp addressed this issue during his remarks at the event, stating that there are roughly 28,000 teens who identify as LGBTQ in South Carolina. He cited statistics about violence and abuse toward gay and lesbian teens.
Hemlepp described Smith as a "fallen warrior" for LGBTQ youth and a leader for gay teens throughout Hampton County to "come out." Smith, a college student at the time of his death, also had big dreams of becoming a nurse and then a doctor.
Hemlepp mentioned Smith's dream of healing and helping people as he spoke emotionally about "the evil that was happening in Hampton County" involving Smith's life and death.
"Imagine what kind of doctor he could have been for gay kids, but he was not because someone bashed his head in," he said. "The time for being sad is over. I'm no longer sad. I'm mad, and I want more. It's time to get angry. It's time to get answers. It's time to get solutions. We don't honor Stephen by being said; the way to honor Stephen is to get mad."
Smith's family and #StandingForStephen concluded Sunday's event by asking anyone with information in his case to please call Crime Stoppers at 888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372) and leave your tip anonymously.
Through its GoFundMe account, and an Oct. 30, 2021, fundraiser, #StandingForStephen has raised just over $40,000 for Smith's memorial and his mother's legal expenses, as well as a memorial for his father, Joel Smith, who died three months after Stephen. The second marker will be erected soon, said Andrews. | https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/south-carolina/2022/07/21/stephen-smith-remembered-unapologetic-fallen-warrior-lgbtq-movement/10089058002/ | 2022-07-21T17:06:57 | 0 | https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/south-carolina/2022/07/21/stephen-smith-remembered-unapologetic-fallen-warrior-lgbtq-movement/10089058002/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As shootings and homicides continue to skyrocket across the city, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler is set to announce a new emergency declaration in an effort to combat the rising crime.
According to his office, Wheeler will host a press conference on Thursday in response to the recently released Portland Homicide Problem Analysis report. Joined by representatives from the Portland Police Bureau, the Community Safety Division and others, Wheeler is expected to announce a new emergency declaration aiming to combat the ongoing gun violence.
The press conference is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. KOIN 6 News will livestream it online here.
This press conference comes after yet another stretch of days marred by shootings. It’s all part of the disturbing trend police are noticing.
“The warm weather months tend to cause an increase in violent crime,” PPB Sgt. Kevin Allen told KOIN 6 News just days ago. “There are a lot of reasons for that, but it’s a pretty clear pattern.”
On Wednesday afternoon, police were investigating after one person was hurt and cars were damaged in a shooting along Southeast Powell Boulevard.
On Tuesday night, an Uber passenger was killed and his driver was injured in a North Portland, officials confirmed.
Just after 2 a.m. Sunday, officers responded to SW 3rd and Burnside after a reported shooting in a parking lot behind businesses, just feet away from the “Keep Portland Weird” sign. A man who was injured in the shooting showed up at a local hospital for treatment.
While responding, officers heard another shooting just a few blocks away, but there have been no reported injuries. Less than 40 minutes after the first shooting, PPB was also called to a neighborhood near SE 26th and Belmont.
“I woke about 2:50 a.m. when I heard about 6-8 gunshots which doesn’t happen very often,” said neighbor Marc Rodriguez. “It disturbed a pretty quiet neighborhood.”
One man was dead at the scene and a woman who was seriously wounded later died at the hospital.
Last Friday, PPB officers found a man dead at the scene of a shooting in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood. The suspect in the case was found and arrested Wednesday morning. | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/portland-oregon-mayor-ted-wheeler-to-announce-new-emergency-declaration-amid-continued-gun-violence-homicides/ | 2022-07-21T17:08:13 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/portland-oregon-mayor-ted-wheeler-to-announce-new-emergency-declaration-amid-continued-gun-violence-homicides/ |
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Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/fetterman-speaks-about-recovery-following-stroke/3306512/ | 2022-07-21T17:11:03 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/fetterman-speaks-about-recovery-following-stroke/3306512/ |
ATLANTIC CITY — The city police officer acquitted of federal charges against him for allowing his K-9 to maul a man who officers tried to restrain is suing for back pay and attorney's fees he says he's owed since his 2018 suspension after the offenses were handed down.
Sterling Wheaten returned to the force March 2 after his attorney, Louis Barbone, who represented him during the federal trial, submitted an immediate demand for his reinstatement after his acquittal.
"The city does not provide comment on the state of litigation; however, the parties are working to resolve this matter," Atlantic City spokesperson Alexxus Young said Thursday.
Barbone filed the litigation in state superior court July 8, according to the lawsuit.
Barbone could not be immediately reached for comment Thursday.
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Wheaten stood trial in February for violating David Connor Castellani's civil rights when he used his police dog, Hagan, to control the then 20-year-old suspect.
Castellani, in his testimony during Wheaten's February federal court trial, admitted to being intoxicated when he encountered police outside Tropicana Hotel & Casino on June 13, 2013.
Castellani was seen on video shouting at other officers, who then attempted to restrain him before Wheaten and Hagan arrived on scene.
The dog, once on scene, attacked Castellani, causing injuries to his torso and head. Wheaten can also be seen on footage repeatedly punching Castellani on the ground.
Wheaten was also accused of falsifying a police report following Castellani's arrest.
In 2015, an Atlantic County grand jury ruled that Wheaten would not face charges for the attack, according to the lawsuit.
Castellani then sued the city for the attack, in which the city agreed to a $3 million settlement in 2017.
According to Wheaten's complaint, he has not been given back pay he was owed between Oct. 26, 2018, and March 2, 2022, when he returned to the police force after Barbone demanded his reinstatement.
According to the lawsuit, Wheaten was given duties in the evidence and property room when he returned to the force.
Wheaten was first hired as a city police officer in 2007.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-officer-acquitted-in-federal-use-of-force-case-sues-for-back-pay-attorney/article_fad502e6-08fe-11ed-b755-2fec7da0b438.html | 2022-07-21T17:13:22 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-officer-acquitted-in-federal-use-of-force-case-sues-for-back-pay-attorney/article_fad502e6-08fe-11ed-b755-2fec7da0b438.html |
CAPE MAY – More than 100 people marched the Cape May Promenade on Wednesday in support of abortion rights, a response to a U.S. Supreme Court overturning the Roe v. Wade.
The ruling threw out the 1973 decision and created a national firestorm, with many states moving quickly to ban abortion access or drastically curtail access.
Participants gathered in front of Convention Hall and marched to The Cove at the end of the Promenade, chanting “My body, my choice,” “Ban guns, not abortion,” and other slogans.
On the beach, women shared their stories and perspectives, taking up a megaphone to speak of clearly painful matters. Some spoke of sexual assault, escaping abusive relationships or of medical conditions that would make carrying a baby to term potentially deadly.
Another woman said she was just too young, financially insecure and not emotionally prepared to have a child when she got pregnant. She decided to have an abortion.
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At times, the speakers began to cry when recounting their memories.
A 17-year-old girl said was “so scared.”
“Am I going to have to grow up rights to my own body? And I going to have to grow up in a world where I can’t make decisions for myself?” she said.
The event was described as “Bans off our Bodies, a March for Reproductive Rights.”
Cassandra Gatelein, a tattoo artist and an organizer of the event who goes by “Sandy,” said she and those she worked with were devastated by the court’s decision.
“Some of us felt shock and disbelief. Some of us anger and rage. Some of us a deep, heavy sadness. I think all of us probably cried,” she said. “But when we decided to organize this march, that heavy sadness started to lift and we started feeling empowered and strong again.”
This is the third summer that marchers have taken to the Cape May Promenade for a progressive cause. In 2020, the same route was used for one of several Black Lives Matter events held throughout the region and throughout the country, and last year a march for gay rights took the same route.
There were many of the same marchers and organizers participating.
While the march took place, several passersby honked their horns or yelled in support of the marchers. Others made their feelings known quietly, with some individuals saying “baby killers” as the group passed.
In April, the organization Cape May County Right to Life held a prayer vigil on the steps of the Cape May County Superior Court, calling for an end to abortion across the country. Advocates for preserving legal access to abortion gathered at the same spot in June.
A “Rally for Life & Justice” took place in Trenton just after the divided June 24 Supreme Court ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization over a Mississippi law limiting abortion access.
At previous rallies, members of the anti-abortion organizations argued that abortion kills a human being.
More than half of states are seen as certain or likely to ban abortion after the Supreme Court ruling.
In New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy early this month signed bills aimed at preserving access to abortion in New Jersey for residents and for those from out of state who travel to New Jersey for an abortion. Early Wednesday, acting State Attorney General Matthew Platkin and Phillip Sellinger, the US Attorney for New Jersey, announced plans to increase security for abortion providers and guidance for local prosecutors on potential charges that could be filed against people who try to interfere with abortion access.
In Cape May on Wednesday, a woman mentioned the Supreme Court ruling that found no Constitutional right to an abortion.
“Guess what? There’s not one word about women in the Constitution, but we are here,” she said.
“We think it’s important to note that the rich will always have abortion access,. It is poor, working class, undocumented, Black, indigenous and people of color who will disproportionately suffer,” Gatelein said. “We cannot wait for politicians to safe us. We cannot wait for the existing power structures to save us.”
“Everyone knows someone who has had an abortion,” said Crystal Hutchinson at the event. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/rally-held-in-cape-may-for-abortion-rights/article_6871d574-0907-11ed-a977-ff7aba15586f.html | 2022-07-21T17:13:28 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/rally-held-in-cape-may-for-abortion-rights/article_6871d574-0907-11ed-a977-ff7aba15586f.html |
Monkeypox task force launched in Oakland County
A monkeypox task force has been created in Oakland County to respond to six confirmed or probable cases in the county.
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said Thursday the group was launched to “prepare for what may be to come." According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Michigan has had 19 confirmed cases as of July 10, with nearly a third of them being Oakland County residents.
The state of Michigan has access to 2,000 doses of monkeypox vaccine, and the Oakland County Health Division has enough to vaccinate 340 people.
According to Coulter, pharmaceutical companies are gearing up production of the vaccine, with the county expecting more doses by the end of August and significantly more by October.
More:Why monkeypox won't be the next COVID-19 in Michigan
More:1st probable case of monkeypox found in Michigan; what is it and where is it spreading
"So our challenge now is what happens between now and then," Coulter said. "Because frankly that is not good enough now for what we know is a virus that we can nip in the bud if we have the resources that we need."
"I am urging the federal government and the Centers for Disease Control to expedite that development, production and distribution of the drugs that will help prevent and treat this emerging virus," Coulter said.
Joining Coulter on the task force is Oakland County Health Officer Calandra Green, who will be leading it, and infectious disease and HIV specialist Paul Benson.
Benson has seen all of the confirmed Oakland County monkeypox patients, and is the only doctor in the region authorized by the CDC to prescribe tecovirimat (TPOXX), a treatment for monkeypox.
“They’re going to help develop communication, an education plan for our residents, and they’ll also create a plan for vaccine distribution, when that day comes, because we know that the number of cases is going to increase” Coulter said.
Coulter emphasized that the vaccine supply the county currently has is not sufficient for preventive vaccinations, and that the available vaccines will only be going to those at a high risk or who have been in close contact with a confirmed case.
“I don’t want to be alarmist today, but we must be prepared for the potential spread of this virus across our state,” Coulter said. “The population of individuals most at risk of getting monkeypox at this moment is far greater than our capacity to vaccinate them.”
Coulter sited locations like New York City that have seen an exponential growth in their number of cases.
“In New York City, the number of cases has doubled in more than a week, so that’s the potential,” Coulter said. “Our numbers have been increasing exponentially too, again, much smaller, but on the same kind of exponential scale.”
Most cases so far in the United States have been among men who have sex with other men. The disease is spread through close skin-to-skin contact.
As the case count begins to grow, Benson urged all citizens, regardless of sexual orientation, to be aware of the virus. Benson cited the virus' history, as it was first found in humans in the 1970s in Africa.
"At that time, there was no predilection for it affecting gay men, in fact, gay men were very few if any of the cases in Africa," Benson said. "So something has changed, because when monkeypox escaped Africa, it was there for many years, it now is affecting gay men."
Benson emphasized the need to be wary of intimate physical contact with someone who is displaying possible symptoms. The most obvious outward symptom is a rash that can look like pimples or blisters on the face, in the mouth and other parts of the body, according to the CDC. The illness typically lasts two to four weeks.
"People, whether you're gay or straight, need to do something we're all capable of doing, but we don't always do it well, and that's have common sense," Benson said. "Don't live by those five words, 'Maybe it will go away.' If you have an issue, act responsibly to avoid spreading the virus to others, similar to what we're doing with COVID." | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2022/07/21/monkeypox-task-force-launched-oakland-county/10113581002/ | 2022-07-21T17:28:32 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2022/07/21/monkeypox-task-force-launched-oakland-county/10113581002/ |
2 arrested after gunfight at Warren gas station
Warren — Two suspects are in custody and police are searching for a third after a gunfight Thursday morning at a gas station, officials said.
Warren Police Commissioner William Dwyer said authorities were called at about 10:15 a.m. about shots fired in the parking lot of a gas station on Van Dyke and 11 Mile.
He said two groups of people got into an altercation and three people began firing guns, according to a preliminary investigation. It's not clear how many shots were fired, but it could have been between 20 and 30, Dwyer said.
Officers recovered two guns, both Glocks, after arresting the two. Both suspects are being uncooperative with detectives, officials said.
No injuries were reported, the commissioner said, but one round struck a car dealership across the street from the gas station.
cramirez@detroitnews.com
Twitter: @CharlesERamirez | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2022/07/21/2-arrested-after-gunfight-warren-gas-station/10117984002/ | 2022-07-21T17:28:38 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2022/07/21/2-arrested-after-gunfight-warren-gas-station/10117984002/ |
Defense in Flint water trial says suit motivated by 'the color green'
A lawyer for a private engineering firm accused Flint water crisis victims of targeting the company out of greed, during closing arguments for the first civil trial involving the lead contamination of the city's water supply.
In closing arguments delivered on Thursday morning in the first Flint water crisis case to make it to a jury trial, defense attorney Wayne Mason referred to the lawsuit against his client, private engineering firm Lockwood, Andrews, & Newnam, or LAN, as a "mopey plaintiff case."
The trial stems from lawsuits filed on behalf of four Flint children against LAN and Veolia North America, both private firms that were contracted by the city to help with water treatment needs at various points in the lead up to and during the water crisis. The bellwether trial, which opened in February, will set a precedent for dozens of Flint water crisis lawsuits against the two defendants.
Speaking of the early days of this case, the defense attorney discussed the company's confusion about being named in the lawsuit.
“Frankly, we couldn't figure out why plaintiffs kept us in as defendants,” Mason said, claiming most of the information coming out involved government officials.
“We at LAN thought that the plaintiffs would see that also and just let us go home. They wouldn't do it. They wanted something from us. And you probably figured out exactly what they wanted,” he said, pausing to hold up his hand as if he was holding a wad of cash. “It's the color green.”
The plaintiffs in the case the lawyer was referring to are four young children — Andrea Teed, Riley Vanderhagen, Emir Sherrod and Daylanna Warre — who were living in Flint during the city's contaminated water crisis, which was caused by a botched water supply switch that left thousands of kids potentially exposed to high levels of lead.
Lead is a neurotoxin that can have sever impacts on brain development in kids, and attorneys for the four children are seeking to show LAN's work with the Flint water system in the lead-up to the water switch contributed to the injuries they say they have endured.
The city of Flint began using the Flint River water as its municipal drinking source in April 2014. For 18 months, the improperly treated water corroded the city's pipes, leaching heavy metals along the way as it flowed into people's homes, exposing the city's 100,000 residents to the contaminated water.
In 2013, about a year before the water switch, LAN was contracted to assist the city of Flint in preparing its water treatment plant for the new water supply. The company's staff members were aware that the city had decided against using orthophosphates as a form of corrosion control to treat the acidic Flint River water.
The lawsuit accuses the company of "collective failure" in properly readying the city's water treatment plant to use the Flint River as the primary source of drinking water and failing to report the dangers of not using corrosion control.
The company's legal team has argued the decision was made by state and local officials, and that its engineers are not responsible for it, nor could they have known with certainty what kind of impact skipping orthophosphates would have on the city's pipes.
Mason's arguments came on the second, and potentially final, day of closing arguments in the federal trial against two private engineering companies for their role during the Flint water crisis and their alleged contributions to the public health disaster that followed.
The defense attorney also sought to reframe the lawsuit as a case not just against the company, but a case against the firm's vice president and chief engineer Warren Green, sparking pushback from U.S. District Judge Judith E. Levy, who is presiding over the jury trial.
Early in his closing statements, Mason told the jury they held both LAN and Green's fate in their hands. As he walked through the decision ahead of the jury, he continued to refer to the connection between the case and Green's livelihood, triggering an interjection from Levy clarifying to the jury that Green is not the one on trial.
Later, Mason referred to the claims in the case as "potentially career-ending". The comment triggered an objection from the plaintiff's counsel Corey Stern, an attorney at the New York-based law firm Levy Konigsberg, and a second interjection from Levy.
"Was there evidence of a career ending? Was there evidence from a witness?" Levy asked.
"That's my position here about the impact of this," Mason responded.
"We have to have evidence so I just ask that you please move on and focus on the evidence," she said.
As he wrapped up his statements, Mason said the jury should deliver “an emphatic and firm no” on the lawsuit’s accusation that LAN breached the standard of care and committed malpractice, asking them to send the plaintiffs' attorneys home without a victory in the case.
“Send them home to work on something legitimate, next time to leave out the innocent defendants. No high fives," Mason said.
After the defense concluded its arguments and the jury was out of the courtroom, Levy again admonished the team's attorneys for questioning the motives of the plaintiffs. Once the jury returned, Levy addressed the issue with them as well.
"Personal accusations about plaintiff's lawyers ... should be disregarded, as well as the plaintiffs' motives," she said.
As the trial continued on Friday, Stern’s took the floor to deliver his final rebuttal. The attorney, who represents thousands of Flint children, used part of the time to respond to the accusations made by the defense team about the motives of his team and the plaintiffs.
“Lawyers who represent brain damaged kids don’t high five each other when they win, we don’t,” Stern said.
Arguments will continue Thursday afternoon, with plaintiff's counsel expected to deliver their closing rebuttal before the case is left in the hands of the jury.
kruble@detroitnews.com | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/07/21/flint-water-crisis-lawsuit-closing-arguments-defense/10107722002/ | 2022-07-21T17:28:44 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/07/21/flint-water-crisis-lawsuit-closing-arguments-defense/10107722002/ |
Jill Biden in Detroit after president contracts COVID: 'He's feeling good'
Detroit — First lady Jill Biden, who was in Detroit on Thursday visiting a city school's reading program, said she has tested negative for COVID-19 after the White House announced President Joe Biden has contracted a mild case of the virus.
“You may have just heard my husband tested positive for COVID. I talked to him just a few minutes ago. He’s doing fine. He’s feeling good," Jill Biden told reporters during a visit to Schulze Academy for Technology and Arts on Detroit's west side. "I tested negative this morning."
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that President Biden, 79, was experiencing “mild symptoms” and has begun taking Paxlovid, an antiviral drug designed to reduce the severity of the disease.
Jill Biden, 71, told reporters in Detroit she would follow CDC guidance and wear a mask as a precautionary measure.
The first lady planned to maintain her full schedule in Michigan and Georgia on Thursday, spokesman Michael LaRosa said.
More:First lady Jill Biden, education secretary to visit summer learning program in Detroit
She arrived at Detroit Metro Airport on Wednesday evening ahead of the planned visit to a summer reading program Detroit Public Schools Community District hosts at Schulze Academy.
Jill Biden toured the school with U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.
"Learning loss, as an educator, means a lot to me," Jill Biden told reporters before entering the school.
Prior to her husband's election as president in 2020, Jill Biden had a career as an English professor at community colleges in Delaware and Viriginia.
Detroit News Washington Bureau Chief Melissa Burke contributed. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/07/21/jill-biden-detroit-after-president-biden-contracts-covid-hes-feeling-good/10117010002/ | 2022-07-21T17:28:50 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/07/21/jill-biden-detroit-after-president-biden-contracts-covid-hes-feeling-good/10117010002/ |
PENNSYLVANIA, USA — A man wanted for escaping the Luzerne County Correctional Facility was arrested Wednesday, according to the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS).
Robert Vargo, 25, escaped the prison in Wilkes-Barre on July 17.
Members of the USMS Fugitive Task Force arrested Vargo and his girlfriend Amanda Saxer near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Vargo was remanded to a detention center in Conway, South Carolina, pending extradition to Pennsylvania.
See news happening? Text our Newstip Hotline. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/luzerne-county/man-escaped-luzerne-prison-arrested-luzerne-county-correctional-facility-us-marshals/523-e5bd262d-86c0-4184-8caf-7f46cb64f00d | 2022-07-21T17:41:11 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/luzerne-county/man-escaped-luzerne-prison-arrested-luzerne-county-correctional-facility-us-marshals/523-e5bd262d-86c0-4184-8caf-7f46cb64f00d |
WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — After the announcement that President Joe Biden has tested for COVID-19, the event planned for Wilkes-Barre on Thursday has been canceled, according to Rep. Matt Cartwright's office.
The White House issued this statement Thursday morning:
"This morning, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19. He is fully vaccinated and twice boosted and experiencing very mild symptoms. He has begun taking Paxlovid. Consistent with CDC guidelines, he will isolate at the White House and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time. He has been in contact with members of the White House staff by phone this morning and will participate in his planned meetings at the White House this morning via phone and Zoom from the residence.
Consistent with White House protocol for positive COVID cases, which goes above and beyond CDC guidance, he will continue to work in isolation until he tests negative. Once he tests negative, he will return to in-person work.
Out of an abundance of transparency, the White House will provide a daily update on the President’s status as he continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation.
Per standard protocol for any positive case at the White House, the White House Medical Unit will inform all close contacts of the President during the day today, including any Members of Congress and any members of the press who interacted with the President during yesterday’s travel. The President’s last previous test for COVID was Tuesday, when he had a negative test result."
Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the physician to the president, confirmed the results in a letter to the White House.
The White House says President Joe Biden has been vaccinated and boosted and is experiencing mild symptoms, but he will be isolating in the White House, forcing the cancellation of his trip to Wilkes-Barre.
Pres. Biden was slated to speak at Wilkes University about building on his bipartisan Safer Communities Act in terms of reducing gun crime.
On Thursday morning, media from our area, stations from Harrisburg, and national media were all set up here inside the gym.
Just after 10 a.m., the news came out that the president had tested positive for COVID-19, and the event was canceled.
Officials from Wilkes University, officials from the city, and representatives from student groups said that they are disappointed that the trip has been canceled, but they wish the president a speedy recovery and hope he finds a way to make it to Wilkes-Barre in the future.
See news happening? Text our Newstip Hotline. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/luzerne-county/pres-biden-visit-to-wilkes-barre-canceled-after-positive-covid-19-test/523-16307eee-db49-454b-8f01-d57826047974 | 2022-07-21T17:41:17 | 1 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/luzerne-county/pres-biden-visit-to-wilkes-barre-canceled-after-positive-covid-19-test/523-16307eee-db49-454b-8f01-d57826047974 |
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The drought that continues to grip South Texas has made business difficult for Michelle Reichle. As broker and owner of a real estate agency specializing in waterfront property around Medina Lake, she often must urge prospective homebuyers to imagine the lake full — as the reality is much less appealing.
Dry and cracked white rocks crumble for 60 feet or more outside lakeview houses. The lake bed is dry in some spots, while others have puddles of stagnant lake water riddled with sticks and trees. Only near the Medina Dam on the lake’s south side is there enough water for recreation.
“I tell them it’s a fluctuating lake,” Reichle said. “But this is bad. It’s hard to sell drought.”
As hard as the drought has been, Reichle and fellow members of Save Medina Lake, a special committee of the Lake Medina Conservation Society, blame the organization tasked with managing Medina Lake — the Bexar-Medina-Atascosa Water Control and Improvement District No. 1, known as the BMA — for making matters worse. They criticize the BMA for continuing to discharge water for irrigation despite severe conditions, and they’re asking the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to do something about it.
In a complaint to the TCEQ submitted by Henning Eilert-Olsen, the chair of Save Medina Lake, the group accuses the BMA of not taking actions called for in its own planning documents, including the BMA’s 2013 Drought Contingency Plan and the 2014 System Inventory and Water Conservation Plan. The complaint asks the TCEQ to ensure that the BMA follows its plan and “closes the gates in the lake immediately.”
The complaint is the latest action by Save Medina Lake as it seeks greater accountability from the BMA. The group is seeking to have the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission — which evaluates state agencies for their effectiveness and whether they should continue to exist — review the BMA.
Medina Lake, a century-old irrigation reservoir on the Medina River, is at 11.7 percent capacity, having dropped nearly 3 feet in one month.
As the steward of Medina Lake, the BMA has the authority to sell water from the lake to farms for irrigation. But Save Medina Lake argues that the severity of the ongoing drought calls for implementing steps outlined in the BMA’s plans.
“That’s what this complaint is all about,” Eilert-Olsen said. “That the [BMA] does not follow their own set of rules on how to manage the drought situation that is currently ongoing. I’m going to be very disappointed and surprised if the TCEQ doesn’t follow up on this. Texas is supposed to protect our water.”
Concern over conservation rates
In October 2021, the BMA’s board discussed measures to conserve Medina Lake in response to the drought. The board decided to sell 6,000 acre-feet of water to farmers for irrigation in 2022, far less than the permitted 46,000 acre-feet. All 6,000 acre-feet for the year were sold in January.
“It’s great that they decided to only sell 6,000 this year,” Reichle said. “But obviously there’s more that needs to be done.”
As of July 1, the agency had delivered 70 percent of the water it sold, according to the BMA. The board will meet in August to discuss additional action.
But Reichle worries that all the water will be gone by then. At the rate it’s decreasing, she said, the water level will drop as low as it did in 2013, when it reached 3.7 percent. And with no substantial rain on the horizon, the lake will remain dry for months.
Eilert-Olsen cited a provision in the Drought Contingency Plan that states when the volume of water in the lake drops to 46,000 acre-feet or less for 30 days, the BMA is supposed to initiate a critical water storage stage.
“Then the manager of the BMA should assess what actions to take, such as terminating the water supply,” he said.
Medina Lake reached 46,000 acre-feet on May 12. As of July 12, there were 32,000 acre-feet in the lake.
“The release of water from Medina Lake has not been terminated nor reduced,” Eilert-Olsen said in his complaint. “And there are still no signs of an intention to reduce or terminate the release of water.”
The complaint also raises concerns about water conservation rates, which the BMA’s 2014 Water Conservation Plan called for developing by 2017.
“We assume the purpose of such pricing mechanisms is to implement rate increases to reduce water consumption under drought conditions,” Eilert-Olsen said in his complaint.
He asked the TCEQ to send a copy of the BMA’s plan for water conservation rates, assuming that such a plan exists, and “an overview of how the prices have been increased during the current drought conditions.”
The BMA’s board sets water rates and assessments each year, the BMA said in a statement. At its October 2021 meeting, the board decided not to implement a price increase. The BMA stopped selling water when it reached the moderate water shortage stage, which is triggered when the water in Medina Lake falls to 66,000 acre-feet for 30 consecutive days.
Canal conundrum
Also, Save Medina Lake contends that while the BMA sold only 6,000 acre-feet, to deliver that amount, the BMA released 24,000 acre-feet to compensate for water lost — such as through evaporation or seepage — while it’s transported through dirt canals.
To reduce such losses, the BMA has piped 47 of its 312 miles of canals, but Mike Crandall, the owner of Wallys Watersports on Medina Lake, said that’s not nearly enough considering how much water is lost.
Crandall, who has lived and worked around Medina Lake for decades, said he has only seen its condition worsen over time. And although his business is closer to the dam, where there’s still water to recreate, he’s worried about the rest of the summer and next year.
He knows the BMA canal system well, often stopping to observe the dirt canals as he drives through farmland south of Medina Lake. He described one area as having trees growing in it and absorbing water.
“I’m no expert,” Crandall said, “but I don’t think canals are supposed to look like that.”
More than anything, Save Medina Lake wants a threshold established at which the BMA would close the dam and stop letting water out.
Save Medina Lake has said for years that the way the lake has been managed is unsustainable, and it said its complaint to the TCEQ is just a start.
The BMA, meanwhile, said its board and management have used Medina Lake for its intended purpose, which is to provide water to farms.
“We pray for rain to replenish the lake for our farmers the most,” the BMA said in a statement. “But we all enjoy and benefit from a full lake.”
Elena Bruess writes for the Express-News through Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. ReportforAmerica.org. elena.bruess@express-news.net | https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Medina-Lake-conservation-group-asks-TCEQ-to-hold-17319774.php | 2022-07-21T17:43:14 | 1 | https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Medina-Lake-conservation-group-asks-TCEQ-to-hold-17319774.php |
The key to keeping your AC running in Texas during the summer is not to shade it under an umbrella.
A TikTok video posted Monday by user @thewilliebeast, or "Aaron the tiktok handyman," showing Texans how to maintain their HVAC unit has collected more than 8 million views and nearly 825,000 likes.
The video starts off with someone showing an HVAC unit under an umbrella in an attempt to shelter it from the scorching summer heat.
"I keep seeing these on TikTok," Aaron says. "I figured with 20-plus years of HVAC maintenance, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, automotive, welding, a little bit of everything, I could help out a little bit."
Aaron said the umbrella was not going to work and then proceeded to grab a garden hose and wash out the HVAC unit.
On ExpressNews.com: ERCOT breaks demand record for 11th time this summer, reaching 80,000 megawatts
"Look up inside here," Aaron says. "See those fins? They could be a lot of different styles, but one thing that happens to all of them: they get dirty. Mainly from mowing, dogs, all sorts of stuff, dust. All you need to do: rinse it off."
According to a video from Lowe's, you should give the condenser unit, the part of the HVAC that is outside, a deep clean once a year. That involves turning off the breaker, removing the top of the unit, cleaning out any debris at the bottom of the unit, including fallen leaves, either by hand or with a vacuum. Using a foaming AC coil cleaner, spray and let sit, and then spray from the inside of the unit out.
Rinse off the outside and replace the top.
On ExpressNews.com: How to donate fans to help San Marcos residents without AC
Aaron's video received more than 12,000 comments.
"Haha not it being literally outside and my brain going 'No! No wet on electrical thingamagigs,'" one TikToker wrote.
Another said: "My thermostat was reading 78-81. I went out there and washed it off. IT HELD AT 71 all day and I’m in south Louisiana."
"Careful with the water pressure," one person responded to the video. "NEVER use anything high-powered like a pressure washer or even spray hose. Just a nice rinse. Speaking from experience."
shepard.price@express-news.net | https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Viral-TikTok-air-conditioning-17319544.php | 2022-07-21T17:43:20 | 0 | https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Viral-TikTok-air-conditioning-17319544.php |
ATLANTIC CITY — The police officer acquitted of federal charges for allowing his K-9 to maul a man officers tried to restrain is suing for back pay and attorney fees he says he's owed since his 2018 suspension after the offenses were handed down.
Sterling Wheaten returned to the force March 2 after his attorney, Louis Barbone, who represented him during the federal trial, submitted an immediate demand for his reinstatement after his acquittal.
"The city does not provide comment on the state of litigation; however, the parties are working to resolve this matter," Atlantic City spokesperson Alexxus Young said Thursday.
Barbone filed the litigation in state Superior Court July 8, according to the lawsuit.
Barbone could not be reached for comment as of Thursday afternoon.
Wheaten stood trial in February for allegedly violating David Connor Castellani's civil rights when he used his police dog, Hagan, to control the then 20-year-old suspect.
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ATLANTIC CITY — A city police officer acquitted of use-of-force charges in a federal civil r…
Castellani, in his testimony during Wheaten's federal court trial, admitted to being intoxicated when he encountered police outside Tropicana Atlantic City on June 13, 2013.
Castellani was seen on video shouting at other officers, who then attempted to restrain him before Wheaten and Hagan arrived on scene.
The dog, once on scene, attacked Castellani, causing injuries to his torso and head. Wheaten can also be seen on footage repeatedly punching Castellani on the ground.
Wheaten also was accused of falsifying a police report following Castellani's arrest.
In 2015, an Atlantic County grand jury ruled that Wheaten would not face charges for the attack, according to the lawsuit.
Castellani then sued the city for the attack, and the city agreed to a $3 million settlement in 2017.
ATLANTIC CITY — Now that police Officer Sterling Wheaten has been acquitted of federal charg…
According to Wheaten's complaint, he has not been given back pay he was owed between Oct. 26, 2018, and March 2, 2022, when he returned to the police force after Barbone demanded his reinstatement.
According to the lawsuit, Wheaten was given duties in the evidence and property room when he returned to the force.
Wheaten was hired as a city police officer in 2007.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-police-officer-acquitted-in-federal-use-of-force-case-sues-for-back-pay/article_fad502e6-08fe-11ed-b755-2fec7da0b438.html | 2022-07-21T17:43:47 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-police-officer-acquitted-in-federal-use-of-force-case-sues-for-back-pay/article_fad502e6-08fe-11ed-b755-2fec7da0b438.html |
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
City of Ocean City, Provided
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
City of Ocean City, Provided
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
City of Ocean City, Provided
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
OCEAN CITY — Night in Venice returns Saturday, with huge crowds expected along the bayfront to watch the boat parade, and big parties planned along the lagoons.
This year’s theme is “Mummers: Struttin’ on the Bay,” bringing some Philly style to the Ocean City waters.
After taking off for 2020 due to concerns over COVID-19, the city was excited to have the parade back for 2021, said Doug Bergen, a spokesman for the city. But turnout was lower than other years, he said. This summer, the event looks to be exceptional.
“This year, we have more than 100 boats registered. That’s by far the biggest turnout in recent years,” Bergen said. “A lot of people want to join in the fun.”
For those without a boat or an invitation, there are plenty of ways to watch the parade. The city sells tickets to watch from the Bayside Center at 520 Bay Ave., but those are sold out. However, there are bleachers set up at multiple street ends along the route of the boat parade, from Battersea Road to Tennessee Avenue.
The first Night in Venice debuted in Ocean City 67 years ago, back when the legendary event was still just a little boat parade, fun but hardly the tradition it’s become. Now a landmark weekend event with all the associated pomp and circumstance that accompanies such festivities, Ocean City’s Night in Venice is billed as one of the largest boat parades in the country.
There is also a bayside park at Second Street, and parade watchers can get a good view from the pedestrian lane on the Route 52 Causeway at Ninth Street. Those who decide to gather there should know no open containers of alcohol are permitted and they must keep the shared pedestrian and bike lane clear.
Ocean City police will be patrolling the area.
The city's first Night in Venice took place more than a century ago, according to Bergen, and there were a few parades that took place in the early 20th century. But it became a major annual tradition as the city planned to celebrate its 75th anniversary.
This year is the 67th event, Bergen said, with a single year missed for the pandemic.
Jay Wright, the recently retired Villanova University men’s basketball coach, and his wife, Patty, will be grand marshals for the parade.
Both participating boats and decorated houses and condos along the parade route will be judged on the decorations, with winners to be announced Sunday. While there is a Mummers theme, participants are not required to stick with it.
Ocean City announced a new concert Friday to add to the festivities on Night in Venice weeke…
Most years, a variety of themes can be spotted on land and on the boats, such as political satire, salutes to health care workers, troops and first responders, and lighthearted takes on snack-stealing sea gulls or summer trends.
At 9 p.m., fireworks will be set off from a barge in the bay near Third Street. They should be visible from anywhere along the bay throughout the downtown area.
Those planning to attend should expect a tough time parking anywhere near the parade route. From midnight Friday until midnight Saturday, parking will be restricted on both sides of Bay Avenue from 16th to 24th streets, with other restrictions elsewhere.
There will be a free shuttle and free parking starting at 4 p.m. Saturday. Parking will be available at the Ocean City Municipal Airport, at the soccer field at Tennessee Avenue and at the Ocean City Community Center, with shuttles to take people to the parade route.
City officials say this is to ensure access for emergency vehicles, and that tickets will be issued to violators. In cases where public safety could be at risk, officials said, cars will be towed.
There are multiple events planned around the busy weekend.
Singer Jackie Evancho will be in the parade and is set to perform with the Ocean City Pops on Sunday, while “Dancing With the Stars” professionals Keo Motsepe and Anna Trebunskaya will be part of the “Motown with a Twist” show Friday and in the parade.
Motsepe is a South African dancer and the first Black professional dancer on "Dancing with the Stars." Trebunskaya is a Russian-born American professional ballroom and Latin dancer. Tickets for that show are $30 and $25 and available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice or by calling 609-399-6111, where tickets for the Pops show with Evancho are also available.
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Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water.
Decorated boats, house parties and fireworks return to Ocean City for the 67th year on Saturday. There are plenty of places to view the parade, but it is set to be a scorcher, so those planning to head out should plan on bringing plenty of water. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/tens-of-thousands-expected-in-ocean-city-for-night-in-venice-saturday/article_0b839370-0867-11ed-89f2-c778742c55aa.html | 2022-07-21T17:43:53 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/tens-of-thousands-expected-in-ocean-city-for-night-in-venice-saturday/article_0b839370-0867-11ed-89f2-c778742c55aa.html |
SANFORD, Fla. – One person is dead and another is critically hurt after a shooting at a home in Sanford, according to police.
The shooting happened in the 100 block of Anderson Circle, which is about a half mile away from Goldsboro Elementary School.
Sanford police said both victims are male but did not provide any names or ages.
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Investigators said the shooting happened in the backyard of the home. No information was provided on who may have pulled the trigger.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/1-dead-1-seriously-injured-in-shooting-at-sanford-home-police-say/ | 2022-07-21T17:44:18 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/1-dead-1-seriously-injured-in-shooting-at-sanford-home-police-say/ |
PALM COAST, Fla. – Excavation has stopped at a Palm Coast construction site where human remains were found this week until a team of experts can arrive to assist.
Human remains were initially found by construction crews on Monday while they were working near the Toscana development, a gated community off Old Kings Road near Interstate 95 in Palm Coast.
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In an update on Tuesday, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said that investigators would have to potentially sift through hundreds of yards of dirt in a painstakingly slow process to find all the remains.
As a result, the sheriff’s office announced Thursday it is stopping excavation and bringing in a team from the University of South Florida’s anthropology department to assist with the recovery effort.
Staly said in a news release specialized equipment was going to be needed to speed up the process.
“Because of the size of the construction site, the number of large piles and the amount of dirt that has been moved around throughout the site we needed specialized equipment and a faster process,” Staly said in a news release. “USF developed specialized equipment and experience during the excavation at the boy’s school and offered to assist. Their equipment should greatly speed up the process and ensure no remains are missed.”
The sheriff’s office said a number of skeletal bones and fragments have been unearthed so far.
The USF team is expected to arrive on Tuesday, July 26 and deputies will remain on-site while excavation is paused to provide security.
USF’s anthropology department is known for conducting large-scale excavations, such as the excavation of bodies at the Dozier School for Boys in 2014. They also have been working on identifying long-forgotten African American cemeteries around the state.
The Palm Coast site is still considered a crime scene by the sheriff’s office.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/flagler-sheriff-pauses-excavation-of-human-remains-at-construction-site-until-experts-arrive/ | 2022-07-21T17:44:24 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/flagler-sheriff-pauses-excavation-of-human-remains-at-construction-site-until-experts-arrive/ |
Some of the best ideas happen in the spur of the moment and sometimes they don’t seem like much at the time.
When Jena McKinstry decided to put her 7-year-old Pomeranian, “Koda The Fluff,” in a toy car she couldn’t have realized the impact it would have on others.
It turns out a tiny dog in a battery-powered car is a recipe for smiles.
Through the power of social media, those smiles have been shared worldwide, creating a unique form of pet therapy.
“I was out shopping one day,” McKinstry said. “And I saw this car on display. I said ‘Oh my gosh she would fit in that and it would be so cute.’”
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So McKinstry purchased the toy and had it for about four months before she decided to make a few videos with Koda driving around the house and in her driveway. That’s when she noticed people pulling their cars over so they could take photos with Koda.
“I said ‘This is something. This isn’t just me enjoying this. Other people really like this,’” McKinstry said.
“She’s like a little marshmallow. That’s why we call her ‘The Fluff,’” McKinstry said.
McKinstry started posting her videos under the Koda The Fluff account. First simple shots of her riding in the house. Then she started taking Koda out to businesses.
Koda rides around in her red convertible. McKinstry calls it a “Fur-rrari.” The tiny dog wears sunglasses and a cup holder attached to the car holds a “pup-uccino” coffee.
“It’s different, you’ve probably never seen a dog rolling in a convertible with the radio blaring oldies,” McKinstry said.
Others agree. Koda has developed a worldwide following.
“I really love her on social media because she can impact millions of people and make their day better,” McKinstry said. “We can only visit a limited amount of people but through her videos, we can impact the world. She has followers on every continent.”
Two years ago, McKinstry had plans to train Koda for pet therapy but the pandemic put that on hold when hospitals couldn’t allow visitors and volunteers inside.
But those videos gave people a reason to smile during tough times.
Soon, Koda The Fluff was visiting schools, first responders and eventually hospitals where she now makes regular appearances as a certified therapy pet.
Kim Bissing, Pet Therapy manager for Orlando Health, said Koda has added a unique take to the program.
“You can’t help but smile when you see Koda coming down the hallway,” Bissing said. “Nobody steers away from these guys when they come through.”
Bissing said pet therapy is proven to lower blood pressure and increase endorphins in people in hospital settings.
“We had to get really creative during COVID. We had a no-touch protocol,” Bissing said.
Koda created a unique opportunity to make a difference from a distance. Because she’s in a car she’s able to roll by people’s rooms and make them happy without getting too close. A no-contact experience.
“She’s a naturally calm dog and I’ve worked with her a ton,” McKinstry said.
Koda has even made special personal appearances by request. That’s how she met Cole and Darla Podliski. The two had been following Koda’s social media feed.
“They were so adorable. They are so sweet and Cole had been sick again with bad bronchitis and a sinus infection,” Darla Podliski said, explaining that her 15-year-old son was having a tough time. “He was missing out on so much at school and he had just started.”
So Podliski reached out to McKinstry and said it would make Cole’s day if Koda were to visit.
“They came to our home and brought him a balloon and some candy. Koda was in her little red car interacting with Cole. It meant the world to him,” Darla Podliski said. “We also just lost our dog and it helped him a lot that day.”
The visit made such an impression, that Darla Podliski nominated McKinstry and Koda for the News 6 Getting Results Award.
“The joy she brought Cole, who was so bummed about missing so much. The therapeutic value she’s bringing so many people. It needed to be recognized,” she said.
McKinstry and Koda have also worked with police departments on driver safety education and awareness
McKinstry said her social media feed is often full of advertisements and other things that just don’t always make her happy. She wanted to contribute something positive.
She calls it digital pet therapy.
“Koda is out there and her only purpose is to bring happiness,” McKinstry said. “If you’re in the hospital, something is going on with you or a loved one. So to be able to see a positive distraction and have a pet roll in that’s just something to give you a mental break from whatever you are dealing with. That’s incredible, very impactful.”
McKinstry hopes to expand on the concept through her nonprofit, Smiles Fur Miles.
McKinstry is encouraging others with well-behaved dogs to participate in pet therapy.
“It’s probably one of the most rewarding things I’ve done,” McKinstry said. “I’m always encouraging people to get into pet therapy. It’s such a good program. There’s nothing more rewarding than just focusing on making other people happy.”
Those interested can find more information and apply for the pet therapy program at OrlandoHealth.com
There is no charge to request an appearance by Koda the Fluff. McKinstry asks that you visit Koda the Fluff’s Facebook page, or website: www.KodaTheFluff.com
You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/koda-the-fluff-therapy-dog-bringing-smiles-fur-miles-in-central-florida/ | 2022-07-21T17:44:31 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/koda-the-fluff-therapy-dog-bringing-smiles-fur-miles-in-central-florida/ |
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – Peppa Pig Theme Park is extending its “awesomer” and “awesomest” annual pass deal.
Those interested can buy three annual passes to the Winter Haven theme park online and get the fourth one for free until Aug. 1.
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The “awesomer” pass includes unlimited access for a year to six top Merlin attractions, including the Legoland theme park and water park, Peppa Pig Theme Park, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Orlando and Legoland Discovery Center in Atlanta. Prices start at $229.99 per ticket.
The “awesomest” pass gives you unlimited access for a year to the same six Merlin attractions in addition to 30+ more Merlin attractions across the U.S. Prices start at $299.99 per ticket.
For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Use the form below to sign up for the ClickOrlando.com In the Loop: Theme Park Scoops newsletter, sent every Friday morning.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/peppa-pig-theme-park-extends-buy-3-get-1-free-annual-pass-deal/ | 2022-07-21T17:44:38 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/peppa-pig-theme-park-extends-buy-3-get-1-free-annual-pass-deal/ |
ORLANDO, Fla – Whether you want to become a wine expert or try something new, here is a list of wineries and tasting rooms around Orlando where you can find local, ethically sourced, quality wine.
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Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below:
Quantum Leap Winery
It is a sustainable winery that offers great wines for great value.
Quantum offers a tasting room with tasting flights, wines by the glass and to-go bottles.
The winery also offers complimentary tours available upon request.
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday 12-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday 12-8 p.m.
Address: 1312 Wilfred Drive Orlando, FL 32803.
For more information, visit.
Eola Wine Company
It offers the best of both worlds; food and wine.
The business has a selection of charcuterie boards, flatbread, and salads to go with the wine of your choice by the glass or the bottle.
Eola Wine Company has an exclusive brunch menu every weekend from 12-4 p.m.
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 4-10 p.m., Friday from 4 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday from 12 p.m.-12 a.m., Sunday from 12-8 p.m.
Address: 430 E. Central Blvd. Orlando, FL 32801.
For more information, visit.
Digress Wine
This College Park’s wine bar & shop offers many ways for its customers to enjoy wine.
It has a relaxing indoor lounge, outdoor patio and the Digress Cellar.
Digress Wine has partnered with Duck & Drake to bring a curated food menu to guests.
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 12 p.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m.-9 p.m.
Address: 1215 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804.
For more information, visit.
The Wine Room on Park Avenue
This winery has over 156 hand-selected wines available to sample.
It has new Enomatic wine dispensing machines that preserve wine to get them to taste fresh every time.
All wines are available to purchase to take home or enjoy in the store.
The Wine Room also offers a food menu and they do not require reservations.
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m.-12 a.m., Friday and Saturday from 11-12:30 a.m., Sunday from 12-11 p.m.
Address: 270 South Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789.
For more information, visit.
The Wine Barn
The Wine Barn is known for their unique wine market of good quality and price.
It offers a food menu with delicious pizzas made with Caputo flour.
Hours: Thursday through Saturday from 5-8 p.m., Wednesday from 5-9 p.m.
Address: 959 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789.
To make a reservation or for more information, visit.
Swirlery Wine Bar
It is a wine bar, tasting room and retail shop.
It also offers blind tasting Tuesday in which tasters have to guess what wine they are trying, and Thursday Somm Sessions in which people learn to know their wine with wine experts.
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 3-10 p.m.
Address: 1508 E Michigan St, Orlando, FL 32806.
For more information, visit.
Grape & The Grain Wine Bar
It is a family-owned and operated wine bar right at the Mills 50 & Ivanhoe Village neighborhoods.
The business is known for its laid-back environment and its delicious wines and drink options.
Grape & The Grain Wine Bar offers a small selection of cheese and charcuterie boards.
It also hosts food trucks in the garden Friday & Saturday nights along with live entertainment
Hours: Thursday from 5 p.m.-12 a.m., Friday from 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Saturday from 2 p.m.-2 a.m., Sunday from 2-10 p.m. Monday from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday from 5-11 p.m.
Address: 1110 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
For more information, visit.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants
It offers a wine tasting room, an extensive food menu and a wine club membership.
Cooper’s also offers seasonal chef recommendations.
Hours: Every day from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Address: 529 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828 and 8005 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819.
For more information, visit.
Wine & Corks
It offers limited edition wines and wine tasting events.
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m., Friday from 5-10 p.m., Saturday from 12-10 p.m., Sunday from 12-5 p.m.
Address: 420 E Church St, Orlando, FL 32801.
For more information, visit.
Golden Hour Wine
A woman-owned neighborhood wine shop in Baldwin Park.
It is known for selecting only responsibly farmed wines.
It is currently having an Apéro special every Thursday from 2-8 p.m., they offer two special pours, a bag of Torres chips and a GH glass to take home, for $12.
Hours: Wednesday through Monday from 2-8 p.m.
Address: 1560 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando, FL 32814.
For more information, visit.
The Vineyard Wine Bar & Healthy Bistro
It has over 200 various wine offerings in stock.
The Vineyard also offers an eclectic menu and a wine club.
Hours: Monday from 3 p.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 12 p.m.-10 p.m., Friday from 12 p.m.-11 p.m., and Saturday from 2 p.m.-10 p.m.
Address: 4848 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Suite 202 Orlando, FL 32819.
For more information, visit. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/ready-for-a-sip-enjoy-wine-tastings-around-orlando/ | 2022-07-21T17:44:44 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/ready-for-a-sip-enjoy-wine-tastings-around-orlando/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday and is experiencing “very mild symptoms,” the White House said, as new variants of the highly contagious virus are challenging the nation's efforts to get back to normal after two and a half years of pandemic disruptions.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden has begun taking Paxlovid, an antiviral drug designed to reduce the severity of the disease. He was isolating at the White House and “continuing to carry out all of his duties fully,” she said.
Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, said in a letter that Biden had a runny nose and “fatigue, with an occasional dry cough, which started yesterday evening.”
“Folks, I’m doing great. Thanks for your concern," Biden tweeted. He added that he was “keeping busy!”
Biden, 79, is fully vaccinated, after getting two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine shortly before taking office, a first booster shot in September and an additional dose March 30.
Jean-Pierre described the president's symptoms as "very mild" and said Biden had been in contact with members of the White House staff by phone and would participate in his planned meetings "via phone and Zoom from the residence.”
The White House took steps to show that the president was busy working despite his diagnosis, with Biden tweeting out a picture of himself making calls from the treaty room of the White House.
The president spoke by phone by lawmakers in Pennsylvania to apologize for having to cancel his planned trip Thursday to the city of Wilkes-Barre to promote his crime prevention plans. Biden also called South Carolina Rep. Jim Clyburn to wish him a happy birthday and congratulate him on receiving an award from the NAACP.
O'Connor wrote in his letter about the president's treatment plan: “I anticipate that he will respond favorably” to Paxlovid “as most maximally protected patients do.”
Jean-Pierre said Biden had last tested negative on Tuesday, and he will stay isolated until he tests negative again.
First lady Jill Biden, speaking to reporters as she arrived for a school visit in Detroit, said she'd just gotten off the phone with her husband.
“He’s doing fine,” she said. "He’s feeling good.”
The first lady, who was wearing a mask, said she tested negative earlier in the day. She will keep her full schedule in Michigan and Georgia on Thursday, though she will be following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on masking and distancing, said Michael LaRosa, her spokesperson.
The president spent much of last week in Israel and Saudi Arabia. White House officials told reporters that Biden planned to minimize contact during the trip, yet as soon as he exited Air Force One on July 13, the president was fist-bumping, handshaking and even seen in the occasional hug. The CDC says symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
Biden had a minimal public schedule after returning from Saudi Arabia late on Saturday night, attending church the next day and helping to welcome Ukraine's first lady Olena Zelenska to the White House on Tuesday. The president traveled to Massachusetts on Wednesday to promote efforts to combat climate change.
Up to this point, Biden’s ability to avoid the virus seemed to defy the odds, even with the testing procedures in place for those expected to be in close contact with him. Prior waves of the virus swept through Washington’s political class, infecting Vice President Kamala Harris, Cabinet members, White House staffers and lawmakers. Biden has increasingly stepped up his travel schedule and resumed holding large indoor events where not everyone is tested.
A White House official said Harris tested negative for COVID-19. She was last with the president on Tuesday and spoke with him on the phone Thursday morning. Harris planned to remain masked on the guidance of the White House medical team.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she hoped that Biden's positive test for the virus would cause more Americans to get vaccinated and boosted because "none of us is immune from it, including the president of the United States, and we really have to be careful.”
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell on Twitter wished the president "a speedy recovery.”
Top White House officials in recent months have been matter-of-fact about the likelihood of the president getting COVID, a measure of how engrained the virus has become in society — and of its diminished threat for those who are up to date on their vaccinations and with access to treatments.
When administered within five days of symptoms appearing, Paxlovid, produced by drugmaker Pfizer, has been proven to bring about a 90% reduction in hospitalizations and deaths among patients most likely to get severe disease.
In an April 30 speech to more than 2,600 attendees at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, Biden acknowledged the risks of attending large events, but said it was worthwhile to attend.
“I know there are questions about whether we should gather here tonight because of COVID,” he said. “Well, we’re here to show the country that we’re getting through this pandemic.”
Biden is far from the first world leader — and not the first U.S. president — to get the coronavirus, which has infected British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, French President Emmanuel Macron and more than a dozen other leaders and high-ranking officials globally.
When Biden’s predecessor, President Donald Trump, contracted the disease in October 2020, it was a far different time. Vaccines were not available and treatment options were limited and less advanced. After being diagnosed with COVID-19 at the White House, Trump was given an experimental antibody treatment and steroids after his blood oxygen levels fell dangerously low. He was hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for three days
After more than two years and over a million deaths in the U.S., the virus is still killing an average of 353 people a day in the U.S., according to the CDC. The unvaccinated are at far greater risk, more than two times more likely to test positive and nine times more likely to die from the virus than those who have received at least a primary dose of the vaccines, according to the public health agency.
The highly transmissible omicron variant is the dominant strain in the U.S., but scientists say it poses a lower risk for severe illness to those who are up to date on their vaccinations. Omicron's BA.5 sub-strain, believed to be even more contagious, now makes up more than 65% of U.S. cases.
“There’s a lot of infections across America,” White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said May 18, blaming the highly-transmissible variants, as well as relaxing mitigation measures like mask requirements.
The coronavirus pandemic helped put Biden in the White House, as he pledged to handle COVID-19 better than his predecessor. After initial months of success surging the nation’s supply and availability of vaccines, the virus became a morass for the Democrat in the first year of his presidency, as he struggled to boost the country’s vaccination rate and to stay ahead of the unpredictable disease.
As cases sharply declined earlier this year, Biden highlighted his administration’s efforts to end the pandemic and help the nation regain a sense of normalcy. He said in his March 1 State of the Union address, “It’s time for Americans to get back to work and fill our great downtowns again.”
The White House has sought to go above public health guidelines to protect the president, with all visitors and staff required to attest to their vaccination status or submit to daily tests. People expected to be in close proximity to Biden are tested daily. | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/biden-tests-positive-for-covid-19-has-very-mild-symptoms/article_93f3cc86-408f-50a2-9c73-2c1ade452998.html | 2022-07-21T17:47:19 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/biden-tests-positive-for-covid-19-has-very-mild-symptoms/article_93f3cc86-408f-50a2-9c73-2c1ade452998.html |
Boise City Council adopted a resolution Tuesday that would limit the funding and ability to investigate abortion providers.
The resolution, which also limits the use of city funds for storing reports of abortions, providing information to other agencies about abortions and helping with lawsuits, passed on a 3-2 vote.
Councilmembers Jimmy Hallyburton, Lisa Sánchez and Holli Woodings voted in favor and Councilmembers Luci Willits and Elaine Clegg voted against.
The council took up the issue after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which guaranteed the right to abortion. Idaho has a trigger law on the books that will make almost all abortions illegal, though Planned Parenthood has sued to stop the law.
Idaho previously passed a Texas-style bill allowing relatives to sue doctors after an abortion. The Idaho Supreme Court will hear arguments in August about the two cases.
“That is not something that our city will do because there are other, higher priorities when it comes to public safety,” Mayor Lauren McLean said.
The policy doesn’t apply to abortion investigations involving coercion or force, criminally negligent conduct to the pregnant patient and cases where the abortion is evidence of another crime like sexual assault, according to city documents. The policy also does not apply where state and federal law require the city to take certain actions.
McLean said she asked to put the resolution on the agenda because she wanted Boise to be clear about its policy. She said she believes it is a city issue, in part because there is an expectation cities will divert public safety resources to investigate claims, doctors and individuals.
She also said the issue was about people, and in the past when people have felt targeted or marginalized, the city has made statements to support them.
Woodings said the move was important because the city council is in charge of setting the budget and policy. She said other actions could have been taken, but it should be a statement of the city council.
“We don’t want the money that our taxpayers entrust to us to be infringing on the privacy of our citizens,” Woodings said.
Sánchez told the council why she ran for office five years ago.
“I was afraid,” Sánchez said. “Things were happening in our country that for the first time made me fearful of my country and made me really examine what it meant to be an American citizen by birth.”
Sánchez said she was happy so many people were positive about the resolution. Anything that takes police away from responding to crises and cultivating community relationships, is “something that we have to be wary of.”
“An issue like this can be very polarizing,” Sánchez said.
However, Sánchez expressed concern that people would not call 911 if they were experiencing problems with their pregnancy.
“All that does is put our community, our greater community in peril,” Sánchez said. “I absolutely think it’s our business. The public safety has to come first …this is us using our resources wisely.”
Clegg said she is the only person who was alive before Roe v. Wade.
“I can tell you that it wasn’t a great time,” Clegg. “I have high school classmates who almost died of botched abortions, self-induced and back-alley both.”
She said she had classmates who did have access to abortion because they had rich boyfriends who took them on overseas vacations to take care of the issue. She said some classmates had babies and ended up in abusive relationships.
However, other classmates had babies and ended up happily married.
“This isn’t a decision that should be made by government,” Clegg said. “Having it be a right has been an important thing for the women in this country, for their safety, for their self-determination.”
Clegg said she had a miscarriage and it required a D&C, otherwise known as dilation and curettage, which removes tissue from the uterus, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The procedure prevents infection or heavy bleeding, the Mayo Clinic said.
“If I hadn’t had access to that care, it’s quite likely I wouldn’t have five children,” Clegg said. “Nobody questioned the treatment, as they shouldn’t have.”
It is unclear how much miscarriage care will be affected by laws surrounding abortion. One Texas law largely bans the use of several drugs for abortion after the seventh week of pregnancy, NPR reported. However, two of those drugs are used to treated a patient after a miscarriage.
The treatments for abortion and for miscarriage are the same, NPR reported.
However, Clegg said she didn’t believe it was a city issue, despite how strongly she felt on the topic. She said McLean and the police chief have the right to make priorities for the police department but the city council should “tread carefully” in directing administrative actions.
“There’s not much I can do that will change this other than work personally and work with all of you as an advocate to change these going forward,” Clegg said.
The sole Republican, Willits, said it was a tough issue.
“I appreciate there’s room for differences on this dais and we can talk about it respectfully, and that’s OK, because I do have a different view on this,” Willits said. “I think we need to get back to the business of Boise and not charge into these issues that nationalize our city council, that hyperpolarize city government.”
After the resolution was passed, new Idaho Republican Chair Dorothy Moon sent out a release criticizing the move, despite several Idaho cities passing laws saying they will not enforce any state or federal laws they believe infringe on the Second Amendment.
"Last night, the radical Democrat leaders of the City of Boise unilaterally decided to undermine duly-enacted Idaho law by ignoring the protections passed by the Idaho Legislature to value and protect life,” Moon said. “Autonomous zones have no place in Idaho.” | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/boise-city-council-passes-resolution-on-abortion/article_fc3f8ea0-4132-5384-ace4-a4cd4ed36827.html | 2022-07-21T17:47:20 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/boise-city-council-passes-resolution-on-abortion/article_fc3f8ea0-4132-5384-ace4-a4cd4ed36827.html |
BOISE — Brian Kane, chief deputy Idaho attorney general, has been hired as the new executive director of the National Association of Attorneys General and will start his new job Sept. 19.
Kane, who has been the point person for state legislators, top elected officials, numerous state agencies and more for day-to-day legal advice from the Attorney General’s office, was unanimously chosen for the position after a national search by a bipartisan special committee of 10 state attorneys general, including five Republicans and five Democrats.
“Brian Kane will be a great executive director,” said current NAAG President Tom Miller, the Iowa state attorney general. “He has the experience, skill, judgment, sense of humor and humility necessary to navigate the challenges of his role. He has won awards from NAAG for his ability to lead and teach AG staffers, and chief deputies around the country turn to him for counsel. Brian really cares about the AG community and treats people well. I’m confident that he will foster bipartisanship and collaboration among attorneys general.”
Kane, a four-year veteran of the U.S. Army and former private attorney, first joined the Idaho attorney general’s office in 2001.
Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden said, “NAAG is an organization near and dear to my heart, and I’m thrilled with Brian’s selection as its next executive director.” Wasden is a past president of the organization.
“Brian excelled immediately when he joined the office in 2001," Wasden said. "He’s been an integral part of my leadership team and has the right skillset to successfully lead NAAG in 2022 and beyond. I want to publicly congratulate Brian and commend the NAAG search committee for hitting a home run with his hiring.”
Kane holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho in political science and history, and a law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School. In the Army, he served with the 1st Cavalry Division in Fort Hood, Texas, prior to enrolling at the UI.
In 2020, Kane was named as one of four finalists to become dean of the University of Idaho College of Law.
Idahoans around the state have met Kane as he’s traveled with Wasden to open-government seminars in every region of the state over the past two decades, educating and informing local government officials, members of the news media and the public about how to comply with Idaho’s two key open-government laws, the Idaho Public Records Act and the Idaho Open Meeting Law. Kane is considered the foremost authority in the state on those laws.
Those seminars were conducted in collaboration with Idahoans for Openness in Government, a non-profit state coalition for openness in government; and co-sponsored by the Association of Idaho Cities, the Idaho Association of Counties, and the Idaho Press Club, along with numerous local co-sponsors, including local news organizations around the state.
The National Association of Attorneys General is based in Washington, D.C.
“I am grateful to accept this opportunity to serve as NAAG’s next executive director,” Kane said in a statement. “I’ve greatly enjoyed working with the organization during my time with the Idaho office, and I am a proud faculty member of their Center for Leadership Development. I look forward to meeting with each NAAG member individually and continuing the great bipartisan work of our nation’s attorneys general.”
Kane told the Idaho Press, “I think that what I most hope to accomplish is the ability to kind of continue to bring the attorneys general together and to fulfill our … collective obligation to public service and serving our constituencies.”
He said he’ll miss being the go-to legal person for Idaho officials, including frequent calls to address legislators. “Yes, if I’m being honest, I love this job,” Kane said. “I think this is probably one of the best jobs I’ve ever had in my life, and it’s hard to say goodbye to it.”
Kane, 52, said of Wasden, “My success would not be possible without Lawrence, without his leadership, without his mentorship, without the confidence that he’s shown in me. … One of the great credits of Lawrence is he’s always willing to teach. So it’s not just that he leads, it’s that he’s also teaching as he demonstrates his leadership. I think that anybody that’s been around Lawrence has had that experience.”
Wasden, who is Idaho’s longest-serving attorney general and first was elected in 2002, lost his re-election bid in the May GOP primary this year to former 1st District GOP Rep. Raul Labrador. Labrador faces Democrat Steve Scanlin on the November ballot, but the Democratic Party has indicated that Scanlin is a placeholder and could be replaced with another candidate.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
Betsy Z. Russell is the Boise bureau chief and state capitol reporter for the Idaho Press and Adams Publishing Group. Follow her on Twitter at @BetsyZRussell. In the interest of disclosure, it should be noted that Russell is the president and co-founder of Idahoans for Openness in Government. | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/idahos-chief-deputy-attorney-general-picked-to-head-national-association/article_d0c261bb-88fd-5b7e-8514-273094f19fa1.html | 2022-07-21T17:47:22 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/idahos-chief-deputy-attorney-general-picked-to-head-national-association/article_d0c261bb-88fd-5b7e-8514-273094f19fa1.html |
DALLAS — It's hot, y'all. And there really isn't any way of escaping it, even with a little rain across North Texas on Thursday.
So perhaps we should take a page from our furry friends.
No, not your dog.
We're talking about squirrels.
Accustomed to the elements, squirrels are resorting their tried-and-true method for staying cool: Splooting.
Let us explain.
You probably have seen your dog do this move: Laying on their stomach, all fours sprawled across the floor. It's simple. It's relaxing. And it's pretty cute, too.
Now we're in the stage of summer when even frenetic squirrels simply have to slow down and sploot.
WFAA Daybreak anchor Kara Sewell spotted a couple squirrels cooling off via the sploot.
A viewer's follow-up to Kara's tweet produced this incredibly cute pic:
And Dallas Texas TV shared a video of a particularly clever squirrel splooting across a sidewalk vent for maximum cooling effect.
The noted squirrels Facebook account, Squirrels of UT, at the University of Texas at Austin once explained the benefits of splooting for squirrels, as they don't sweat or pant.
KENS 5 last week also pointed out the splooting squirrels of San Antonio, where the city's police chief spotted a squirrel cooling off in the shade. The chief worried the squirrel was dead.
Nope, just splooting. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/texas-heat-weather-its-so-hot-in-texas-that-squirrels-are-splooting-yes-splooting/287-f72063b6-d5e4-4a6d-9557-a8658594b489 | 2022-07-21T17:48:08 | 1 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/texas-heat-weather-its-so-hot-in-texas-that-squirrels-are-splooting-yes-splooting/287-f72063b6-d5e4-4a6d-9557-a8658594b489 |
GAITHERSBURG, Md. — A Maryland sheriff’s deputy working on a U.S. Marshals Service task force fatally shot a man Wednesday after officials said the man charged at officers while armed with a large knife.
The man was fatally injured and a second man who was hit was treated at a hospital, the Independent Investigations Division of the Maryland Office of the Attorney General said in a statement.
The deputy who fired was working as part of the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, run by the U.S. Marshals Service, which does not equip its officers with body-worn cameras, Popkin said.
Since the deputy is a deputized federal officer as a member of the task force, the FBI will investigate the shooting, according to Popkin and an FBI spokeswoman. The IID said it will conduct its own investigation. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/sheriff-deputy-shot-man-charging-officers-with-knife/2022/07/21/092934b8-0911-11ed-80b6-43f2bfcc6662_story.html | 2022-07-21T17:54:46 | 1 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/sheriff-deputy-shot-man-charging-officers-with-knife/2022/07/21/092934b8-0911-11ed-80b6-43f2bfcc6662_story.html |
AUSTIN, Texas — Former State Sen. Kirk Watson, now a candidate for Austin mayor, on Thursday shared a slew of ideas he thinks could help address the housing crisis in Austin.
"Everyone knows it: Austin is in a state of emergency," said Watson. "The cost of housing in our community has spiraled out of control, threatening to fundamentally change the character of the city we love."
Watson cited a "dramatic shift" over the past 10 years that has threatened to change Austin's culture.
"Perhaps predictably, the very qualities that drew so many people to Austin for so long – an ethos of acceptance, and an economy of abundance – are now jeopardized by the incredible growth they produced," said Watson. "At the same time, in the wake of the COVID pandemic, economic forces far beyond our control have further compromised Austin’s affordability, with rising housing costs as the central cause and effect."
Watson's plan to address the problem includes seven parts:
- Scrub Austin's development review process
- Temporarily cut targeted development fees in half
- Let council districts adopt their own code reforms
- Reward neighborhoods that adopt pro-housing reforms
- Launch a Central Texas housing partnership
- Create a master-planned community at Lake Walter E. Long
- Use every tool in the toolbox to expand housing options
"The good news is that the fight is not lost, and we still have powerful weapons at our disposal – namely, an extraordinary consensus about what our challenges are, and a shared determination to find solutions that change the equation," said Watson. "If we choose to respond thoughtfully but decisively to our housing emergency – if we come together around a positive, progressive vision, and quickly take steps to turn that vision into a reality – I know that we can protect Austin’s special quality of life, for ourselves and for future generations."
Other candidates in the 2022 mayoral election include State Rep. Celia Israel, real estate broker Jennifer Virden, University of Texas student Phil Brual, Anthony Bradshaw, Erica Nix and Gary Spellman. Current mayor Steve Adler is not eligible for reelection.
PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/kirk-watson-austin-housing-plan/269-3a29a36c-24d8-4bdf-a3f2-17a7b0afe52b | 2022-07-21T17:56:09 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/kirk-watson-austin-housing-plan/269-3a29a36c-24d8-4bdf-a3f2-17a7b0afe52b |
The city of Casper is countersuing its former bus operator, alleging in court filings that the Casper Area Transportation Coalition double-dipped into grant funding while fully funded by pandemic relief money in 2020.
The counterclaim, filed Friday in federal district court, also alleges CATC refused to return money it wasn’t supposed to receive from the city. A lawyer for CATC said Wednesday that the agency maintains that Casper owes it around $30,000 more than the bus operator owes the city.
Casper’s claims are in line with the reasons it cited when ending its nearly 40-year relationship with CATC last April. The city then took over both fixed-route and on-demand bus services, which also cover parts of the county outside of Casper.
CATC’s ongoing lawsuit against the city, filed in March, alleges Casper officials violated their contract by seizing records from CATC’s leased office, shutting down the agency’s access to city servers and ending its lease early. A federal judge declined to dismiss the case on the city’s claims in June.
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But the city said the search was part of a forensic audit it commissioned after learning CATC had allegedly asked the Wyoming Department of Transportation to be reimbursed for expenses already directly covered by the city.
The city alleges in recent filings that WYDOT “strongly encouraged” it to undertake the audit. It also says that a search warrant or subpoena was not needed for the search since the city’s contract with CATC allowed it to access documents necessary for an audit.
According to the city, the audit found CATC received over-payments totaling more than $145,000 because it did not account for the money it made from fares when requesting reimbursement from Casper. CATC has maintained that it was the city’s responsibility, as the recipient of the CARES Act money, to tell the bus operator to deduct fare revenue from their reimbursement request.
“It was their mistake, and now they want to blame CATC,” said Judith Studer, the lawyer representing CATC in its lawsuit.
The forensic audit cost the city another $35,000, Casper’s attorney also noted in Friday’s filing. It was performed by an outside accountant and fraud examiner. The city says it would not have known about the alleged double-dipping without the audit.
Casper says when it asked CATC to pay that money back “on multiple occasions,” the agency refused. Studer said Wednesday that CATC sent city officials a letter last fall, offering to settle the debt, but received no response.
“We recognize that the city should not have overpaid us, and we’re willing to give the money back,” Studer said. “I’m just surprised they bothered to sue us instead of sitting down and getting it resolved.”
Studer said CATC is still hopeful the issue can be corrected before the case has to go to a trial. A lawyer for the city could not be reached for comment Wednesday.
The city also alleges CATC failed to send required monthly reports to Casper between January and September 2021 (the contract was terminated officially in May of that year). CATC denies that allegation. | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/casper-countersues-former-bus-operator-alleging-it-double-dipped-on-funding/article_65c6bf92-0876-11ed-b553-4f1e8596ffea.html | 2022-07-21T17:56:09 | 0 | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/casper-countersues-former-bus-operator-alleging-it-double-dipped-on-funding/article_65c6bf92-0876-11ed-b553-4f1e8596ffea.html |
A Casper pregnancy center will not change any of its services following the reversal of landmark abortion ruling Roe v. Wade last month.
True Care Women’s Resource Center can’t refer patients for abortions, said CEO Jessica Baxter, or abortifacient medications. Their staff present abortion as one of three options, along with adoption and keeping the child, for pregnant women who come to their office. That isn’t set to change once Wyoming’s trigger abortion ban goes into effect, likely sometime this month.
“True Care, as a 501©3 nonprofit organization does not take a particular stance regarding political decisions and laws, including the recent Supreme Court decision,” a statement from the center’s board says.
Already, Baxter said, the vast majority of Wyoming women have to travel out of the state to obtain an abortion. In that sense, she said, the Roe decision only slightly limits abortion access in the state, which had just one clinic in Jackson actively providing the service before the ruling.
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True Care doesn’t help its clients find a clinic or out-of-state provider, nor does it provide a list of providers to those who decide to seek an abortion. Staff can direct clients to OB-GYN offices in the area so clients can “have those conversations with a local doctor,” according to Baxter.
It’s unclear whether the organization could find itself in legal trouble for even presenting abortion as an option to clients when it does become illegal in Wyoming, Baxter said.
Under the state’s trigger law, any abortion other than those needed to save the mother’s life or resulting from rape or incest would be prohibited. Anyone who receives or provides an abortion could potentially be charged with a felony that carries a prison sentence of up to 14 years, according to the law, which is expected to go into effect soon due to Roe’s reversal.
“This law really doesn’t effect what we do,” Baxter said. “We just have to make sure we’re not violating Wyoming law.”
The “great majority” of True Care’s clients come into the office during their first trimester, Baxter said. Last year, the center saw about 300 pregnant women and worked with more than 500 people when you factor in fathers, children and other family members.
In recent years, more women seem to be set on abortion when they come to True Care, Baxter said.
“My sense would be that each year it does increase,” she said. “Adoption is probably the one we see the least often.”
The center, on South Poplar Street in Casper, has recently been the site for two abortion rights protests. A group of around 60 people gathered on the sidewalk outside to protest the day Roe v. Wade was overturned, and another smaller group participated in a national day of protests last week.
The protesters haven’t contacted True Care directly, Baxter said, but she learned of both protests from others before they happened.
“The protests have been respectful and peaceful, what more can we ask for?” she said. “As an American I want my right to do express my beliefs, they have every right to do that as well.” | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/casper-pregnancy-center-operations-wont-change-under-wyomings-abortion-ban/article_24bdd5c4-07a6-11ed-aac9-6be1a676d0e3.html | 2022-07-21T17:56:09 | 1 | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/casper-pregnancy-center-operations-wont-change-under-wyomings-abortion-ban/article_24bdd5c4-07a6-11ed-aac9-6be1a676d0e3.html |
A wildfire in western Converse County has so far burned roughly 3,200 acres.
The Sand Springs fire reportedly began around noon on Wednesday, and is burning primarily in tall grasses. Officials believe there is no threat to people or buildings in the area.
Firefighters from Glenrock, the Bureau of Land Management, county and state crews are working to suppress the fire, officials said Thursday morning.
The blaze, around 25 miles northeast of Casper, was likely started from a human cause, according to Carmen Thomason of BLM Wyoming. A fire investigator was on scene Thursday morning trying to determine the fire's cause and point of origin, Thomason said.
Hot temperatures and breezy weather on Wednesday helped the fire spread to around 2,500 acres by the end of the day. It'll be hot again Thursday, which Thomason said may mean it spreads more before the day is out.
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The fire area straddles land owned by the BLM and others. Officials were working Thursday to put together a map of all affected landowners.
There had been no road closures or evacuations as of mid-morning Thursday.
BLM land in Converse County has been under Stage 1 fire restrictions since last week, meaning open fires and smoking in many places is prohibited. The June 13 order putting the restrictions in place notes dry conditions and high fire danger in the county. | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/wildfire-burns-3-200-acres-in-western-converse-county/article_1ace7f06-0912-11ed-bdda-53313bac7fd2.html | 2022-07-21T17:56:22 | 1 | https://trib.com/news/local/casper/wildfire-burns-3-200-acres-in-western-converse-county/article_1ace7f06-0912-11ed-bdda-53313bac7fd2.html |
The University of Wyoming is recommending the retraction of "several" papers by a former professor following an investigation that found "data irregularities inconsistent with published conclusions" in the research. Two papers that the professor was involved with have already been retracted.
Retraction Watch, a blog that tracks retracted scientific papers, first reported on the retractions Friday.
The former professor, Jun Ren, served as the Wyoming Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence program director and associate dean of pharmacology during his time at the university. Last year, he made Clarivate Analytics’ list of the world’s most highly cited researchers, according to a UW article from November.
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He left UW sometime during the 2019-2020 academic year, according to a November article from the university. It’s unclear if his departure was related to the retracted papers. The university hasn’t yet responded to the Star-Tribune’s request for further comment.
UW’s first investigation into his publications took place between 2013 and 2015, according to a May letter Ren sent to American Heart Association Publishing Committee Chair Eldrin Lewis, and which he later shared with Retraction Watch.
Ren said in his letter that, following the investigation, he received “severe sanction by the University,” which included losing his directorship of a multi-million dollar research program as well as other “administrative, editorial, grant review and advisor positions.” But none of his papers were retracted following that investigation, he said. Rather, he was allowed to make corrections.
Ren also referred to another “recent investigation” into his work, which, according to his letter, was still ongoing at that time. It’s not clear when this investigation began, or if it has since concluded. It's also unclear why the university opened a second investigation into Ren's work.
Two of Ren’s articles were retracted earlier this month. UW found “data irregularities inconsistent with published conclusions” in one of the papers, published in MBC Medicine in 2012, and evidence of “data irregularities and image reuse” in the other, published in Plos One in 2010, according to the retraction notices.
Ren didn’t agree with either retraction, according to the notices.
UW is further recommending retraction of “several” more publications by Ren, again because of “data irregularities inconsistent with published conclusions,” according to an emailed statement from the university.
Ren referred in his letter to two papers published by the American Heart Association that are slated for retraction.
Ren wrote in his letter to Lewis regarding the first of these papers, published in 2012, that he had “overcommitted” himself in “administrative work” and “failed to stay on top” of his research lab.
“I took the full responsibility for our mistakes,” he said.
But he also said that he believed the mistakes to be “correctable issues” or just a “‘difference in opinion.’”
Ren admitted that the second paper, published in 2009, had two mistakes. But he added that he believed the errors to be “correctable” and that they “were not done trying to alter study conclusion.”
It’s unclear if UW has recommended the retraction of any other papers involving Ren. The university hasn’t yet responded to the Star-Tribune to clarify.
Ren did not respond to the Star-Tribune’s request for comment by press time. | https://trib.com/news/local/education/former-uw-professors-papers-retracted-following-investigation-more-retractions-recommended/article_916bcb80-0860-11ed-99a7-77a9c567c61b.html | 2022-07-21T17:56:28 | 0 | https://trib.com/news/local/education/former-uw-professors-papers-retracted-following-investigation-more-retractions-recommended/article_916bcb80-0860-11ed-99a7-77a9c567c61b.html |
Nobody likes traffic backups. The experience of sitting bumper-to-bumper is frustrating for a number of reasons, from running late for work or picking up the kids to simply feeling stuck with nothing you can do about it. Most people tend to do what they can to avoid the experience of sitting in traffic by timing their commutes to avoid rush hour and planning alternate routes, among other tactics.
Using data from the 2021 Global Traffic Scorecard, Routific identified the worst 25 cities in the U.S. for traffic delays and calculated how much those delays cost drivers based on the metro's median hourly wage. Commute times were calculated by looking exclusively at the time it takes to get to and from major employment centers, based on anonymized GPS data to find commuting patterns.
In some cities, sitting in traffic is simply unavoidable. Traffic congestion is caused by several factors, among them the road grid (how a given road system is laid out); the density of the environment in terms of residents, businesses, and popular attractions; the availability (or lack thereof) of public transportation options; and the sheer volume of cars and trucks on the road. For many cities, commuting slowed during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but traffic congestion returned as Americans eased out of restrictions.
One pandemic lifestyle habit that seems here to stay is online shopping: From March 2020 to February 2022, Americans spent a staggering $1.7 trillion on e-commerce, according to Adobe Analytics. With millions of online purchases moving back and forth across the country, it's only added to daily congestion. More truck drivers are on roadways shipping goods to warehouses—and more delivery drivers are in neighborhoods distributing parcels every day. Expect more in the future as the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that demand for delivery truck drivers will increase by 12%—faster than the average growth of all occupations—with 190,700 jobs available each year for the next decade.
Growth and expansion of a given urban area is also a significant contributor, as population growth often exceeds a city's ability to grow its transportation system to meet the demand. Some of the most prevalent examples of the past few years are the cities of Dallas, Phoenix, and Houston—all of which are on this list and among the 10 most populous cities in the country.
If you live in a major city, odds are your town is on this list—but there are a few surprises for those who think smaller means easier to get around. In our data points highlighted below, the time loss is calculated by analyzing peak speed and free-flow speed data for the busiest commuting corridors. The annual added cost data was calculated based on the 2021 median hourly wage in the metro area according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. | https://pantagraph.com/entertainment/local/medici-craft-beer-jazz-festival-returns-to-normal-saturday/article_8f73da20-090a-11ed-8ee2-8b6b5067e6fb.html | 2022-07-21T17:56:50 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/entertainment/local/medici-craft-beer-jazz-festival-returns-to-normal-saturday/article_8f73da20-090a-11ed-8ee2-8b6b5067e6fb.html |
NORMAL — Books to Benefit, a local nonprofit, will hold its first-ever educators' sale Aug. 5 and 6 at 360 Wiley Drive, Normal.
Books to Benefit hosts semi-annual sales of donated books to help raise money to support literacy efforts in the community.
Any K-12 educator with staff or faculty identification is invited to attend the sale, as well as homeschool instructors with proof of curricular affiliation.
The sale will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6.
Items for sale will include children's books, young adult books, and special areas of study like education, science, geography, foreign language, art and drama. High school teachers will be able to find classic works of literature for Advanced Placement reading and other special assignments. A variety of teachers' resource materials will be available, as well as access to the media collection of CDs and DVDs. Some classroom sets will be available.
Children's books are 50 cents, while other works are $2 if hardbound and 50 cents if in paperback. There is no purchase limit.
Donations will continue to be accepted for the nonprofit's November sale. Books can be brought in person on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Books must be in saleable condition without odor, water damage, missing pages or covers, or underlining. Magazines and encyclopedias are not accepted, nor textbooks more than five years old.
Visit Books2Benefit.com for more information and for what books are accepted. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/education/books-to-benefit-hosting-educators-sale-aug-5-6-in-normal/article_9f563e58-0908-11ed-a4b7-130a79da5598.html | 2022-07-21T17:56:56 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/education/books-to-benefit-hosting-educators-sale-aug-5-6-in-normal/article_9f563e58-0908-11ed-a4b7-130a79da5598.html |
NORMAL — The Union Pacific Railroad will close Normal's Mulberry Street rail crossing starting at 6 p.m. Sunday.
The closure is for necessary track repairs and is expected to be completed by 6 p.m. Tuesday.
A detour route will be established via Beech Street for drivers to navigate the area. Drivers are asked to avoid the crossing while work is ongoing and use caution when traveling through the area.
Photos: Glorious Garden Festival gives smiles in Twin Cities
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Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3240. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs
Any K-12 educator with staff or faculty identification is invited to attend the sale, as well as homeschool instructors with proof of curricular affiliation. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/railroad-closure-planned-on-mulberry-street-in-normal/article_92282234-0906-11ed-b97b-47bef9fb1eb9.html | 2022-07-21T17:57:02 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/railroad-closure-planned-on-mulberry-street-in-normal/article_92282234-0906-11ed-b97b-47bef9fb1eb9.html |
Tucson-born trumpet player and Mariachi Cobre co-founder Steve Carrillo can now accompany your electric bill, love letters and holiday cards, in the mail as a stamp issued by the United States Postal Service.
Carrillo's likeness served as inspiration for one of five mariachi-themed stamps released for purchase by the USPS earlier this month.
The stamps, unveiled at the 30th annual Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque on July 15, showcase mariachi musicians in traditional attire playing the guitar, guitarrón, vihuela, violin and trumpet, in colorful portraits created by San Diego-based artist Rafael López.
An image of Carrillo was used as reference for the trumpet player stamp with Carrillo’s permission, according to USPS Stamps Services Director Bill Gicker.
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Eighteen million of the mariachi-themed stamps have been produced and are for sale at USPS facilities across the country and at USPS.com.
"I went to the post office today," Carrillo, 64, said in a phone interview Wednesday from his Florida home. "I walked in and saw my stamp framed up on the wall. I still can't believe it."
Carrillo and his brother, Randy Carrillo, helped create the quintessential Tucson mariachi group Mariachi Cobre, alongside fellow musicians Mack Ruiz, Frank Grijalva, Ruben Moreno, Fred Tarazon, Gilbert Velez and Jim Acuña, in 1971.
Cobre was a spinoff of Los Changuitos Feos, Tucson’s first youth mariachi ensemble, and has served as the in-house mariachi group at the Mexican Pavilion at Walt Disney World's EPCOT Center, in Orlando, Florida, since 1982.
Steve Carrillo is the last original member still in Cobre, but six out of its 12 current members hail from Tucson, Carrillo said.
Carrillo said he was contacted nearly a year ago about a photo of him from author Patricia Greathouse's book "Mariachi" possibly being used as reference for a postage stamp.
He gave his OK and signed a release and didn't hear about it again until about a month ago, when he received an invitation to attend the unveiling at the mariachi conference in Albuquerque.
Carrillo was already planning on attending the conference as an instructor.
"They introduced me and announced me at the ceremony," Carrillo said. "It was quite an honor."
Carrillo said he felt the artist, López, did well with his interpretation of the mariachi artists in the stamp series.
"(He) did a good job as far as me holding my trumpet," Carrillo said. "Overall, it was very good and very positive to put mariachi out there to another demographic, a bigger demographic, to promote our music, our culture."
López, who splits his time between San Diego and Mexico City, said he knows well the significance of mariachi music and wanted that to be reflected in his work.
Beyond Carrillo, López looked to the Golden Age of Mexican cinema for inspiration, when actors like Pedro Infante and Jorge Negrete sang on the silver screen with mariachi musicians in tow.
"I love mariachi," López said. "It brings back memories of my childhood growing up in Mexico City. They sing about very human emotions that we can all relate to."
Carrillo said that it makes him feel good to know that his likeness will help promote mariachi music on such a large scale.
The mariachi stamps, sold in sheets of 20 for $12, are forever stamps, meaning they will always be equal in value to the current first-class mail 1-ounce price.
Carrillo expects he will be getting a lot of letters donning his face from friends and family in the coming months.
"I am waiting to see who that first person is going to be," he said.
For Star subscribers: For years, Linda Ronstadt railed against the razing of the barrio to make way for the Tucson Convention Center. Now her name is part of it.
La Doce, a 3-mile stretch along South 12th Avenue on Tucson's south side, is working to embrace its cultural identity and pave the way for future generations.
A homecoming concert at the Rialto celebrates the community where Joey Burns and John Convertino found their musical voice. | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/find-this-tucson-born-trumpeter-on-a-mariachi-postage-stamp/article_70e719d2-08f6-11ed-8892-037373f2209f.html | 2022-07-21T17:58:02 | 1 | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/find-this-tucson-born-trumpeter-on-a-mariachi-postage-stamp/article_70e719d2-08f6-11ed-8892-037373f2209f.html |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – The return of the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta was officially a success, generating a total of $31,507,883 in economic impact – the city’s largest economic impact from an event in at least 10 years.
According to the Charleston Regatta Commission and the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau, an estimated 210,000 people came to the event and approximately 5,978 jobs were directly supported from the event.
Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin and the commission say the economic impact is far greater than what the city had anticipated. Prior to the event, organizers were estimating a total of just under $10 million.
“We all believed Regatta’s return would provide significant economic benefit to our local economy and local businesses. But I do not think anyone could have imagined it would have this monumental of an impact for Charleston,” said Goodwin. “Having been Tourism Commissioner for the State of West Virginia, I understand just how important it is to bring local, regional and out-of-state visitors in for an event of this scale while also providing a variety of unique experiences and attractions. The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta did exactly this – contributing to its success and providing tremendous economic impact for our city.”
The commission says of the attendees at the event, approximately 71% were local (within 50 miles of the event) and approximately 29% were from out-of-town (traveling from at least 50 miles away from the event). Organizers also say hotel occupancy in the area was estimated to have been at roughly 95% during the Regatta, equaling an approximate total of 15,440 room nights.
The 29% of out-of-town attendees equals approximately 61,000 people. Of those, organizers say approximately 77% came to the Regatta from out-of-state, staying approximately 2.4 days. The Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau says they used a partnership with Madden Media to use cell phone data to identify the top five states, out-of-state metros, in-state metros and distance traveled for out-of-state attendees.
“The crowds during the event drastically exceeded our expectations,” said Regatta Commission Member and StormTracker 13 Meteorologist Bryan Hughes. “It was truly incredible to see the number of folks, together, enjoying Regatta. But to take a step back and see how impactful this event was for our community – it’s something for all of us to be proud of and to build on for the future.”
The Regatta returned this past Fourth of July weekend after a 14-year hiatus. The event ran from Thursday, June 30 through Monday, July 4 bringing in several vendors and entertainers with events for the whole family.
According to the commission, the Regatta’s economic impact exceeded any other event in the city over the past 10 years that the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau has been using it’s calculation model. The bureau says the WVSSAC Girls and Boys Basketball Tournament this year brought in $14.1 million, and recent concerts from Alabama, Morgan Wallen, Shinedown, Luke Bryan and Brooks & Dunn brought in a combined total of $9.7 million to the city.
“The Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau has been using this model for calculating economic impact for events for over 10 years, and this year’s Regatta is easily the largest event we have ever modeled, well over twice the impact of any other singular event,” said Tim Brady, Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO.
Goodwin says the Charleston Regatta Commission has already had a planning meeting looking ahead to 2023 and even 2024. The commission has also been taking feedback from community members and event-goers on how to fine-tune and make the next Regatta even better than the 2022 event.
The event was initially launched in 1971 after 13 years old Nelson Jones came up with the idea and presented it to then-Charleston Mayor John Hutchinson. The idea became a reality, and Jones was dubbed the Regatta Founder. Jones passed away in 2010 after battling cancer. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/regatta-brings-over-31m-to-charleston-with-citys-largest-economic-impact-in-10-years/ | 2022-07-21T18:03:11 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/regatta-brings-over-31m-to-charleston-with-citys-largest-economic-impact-in-10-years/ |
ONA, WV (WOWK)—Windstorms have caused significant damage to the Cabell County Sheriff’s field office in Ona.
Cabell County Sheriff Chuck Zerkle says the Ona field office garage was completed and not damaged, the walls were up on the main field office building, and roof trusses had been set with temporary braces.
Then a windstorm hit around 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, and it caused the temporary braces and roof trusses to collapse into each other, Zerkle said. The weight of the falling braces and trusses pushed out the side walls.
Zerkle says nobody was injured because the storm happened so early in the morning.
He says that the damage is estimated to be between $50,000 and $100,000, and the completion date for the field office had to be pushed back to mid-October. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/storm-causes-up-to-100k-in-damage-to-cabell-county-sheriffs-ona-field-office/ | 2022-07-21T18:03:18 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/storm-causes-up-to-100k-in-damage-to-cabell-county-sheriffs-ona-field-office/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK)—Online and kiosk renewals are back up and running for West Virginia’s DMV.
DMV Commissioner Everett Frazier said in a press release that driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals are back online at the service portal at dmv.wv.gov and at kiosk locations throughout the state.
The release says that a mainframe outage is still affecting other services like title work and driver record updates.
The DMV says they will continue to provide updates as they deal with their mainframe issues. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/west-virginia-dmv-restores-license-registration-renewals-online-and-at-kiosks/ | 2022-07-21T18:03:24 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/west-virginia-dmv-restores-license-registration-renewals-online-and-at-kiosks/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Well if you’re a quarterback in the NFL these days you’re making a boat-load of money however, only one quarterback is making more than this Texas high school football alum.
Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray has just been given a five-year $230.5 million deal ($160 million guaranteed) a source has told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. “Cardinals are giving Kyler Murray a five-year, $230.5 million deal that includes $160 million guaranteed, per source. It gives Murray the second highest paid QB average at $46.1 million per year,” he tweeted.
Young NFL star Kyler Murray has been on top of the football world for a long time, once regarded as one of the greatest high school quarterbacks in Texas High School football history for Allen High School, the 24-year-old is now making more money than a vast majority of the NFL’s players.
The Cardinals QB spent time at Texas A&M and Oklahoma during his college years before becoming a two-time Pro Bowler and the 2019 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year.
So far, Murray has played in 46 games with a record of 22-23-1 with a completion percentage of 66.9, 11,480 yards, 70 touchdowns and 34 interceptions.
Darren Urban with azcardinals.com says, “If the reported numbers are true, Murray’s per year average just beats the new deal for Cleveland’s Deshaun Watson, who is at $46M per season. It is second in the league to Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers, who is making $50.3M per season.” | https://cw33.com/news/local/report-texas-high-school-football-alum-gets-five-year-230-5-million-nfl-extension/ | 2022-07-21T18:09:49 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/report-texas-high-school-football-alum-gets-five-year-230-5-million-nfl-extension/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Getting the right bank for you is important and many factors can come into play when it comes to having the best bank and keeping your money secure.
SmartAsset has recently done a study and came up with the best banks in Dallas and they’ve found that the best banks offer a convenient and manageable banking experience. “This list provides a tailored look at the area’s banks, helping Dallas residents get the most out of their banking whether from a wide-reaching national bank or a smaller, local institution.”
- Ally Bank – Top savings account
- Chase Bank – Best national bank with locations in Dallas
- BBVA – Top regional bank
- CIT Bank – Best savings account rate
- Capital One – Runner-up for best savings account rate; Best free checking account & high yield checking account
- Frost Bank – Best customer service
- BB&T Bank – Top bank for students
SmartAsset compared 15 banks and their account offerings, options, fees, minimums as well as interests in order to find out which banks are best in Dallas. “The big bank with the most Dallas branches ranked as the best national bank while a smaller bank ranked as our best regional bank.”
Check out more from this study by SmartAsset by clicking here. | https://cw33.com/news/local/these-are-the-best-banks-in-dallas-according-to-study/ | 2022-07-21T18:09:50 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/these-are-the-best-banks-in-dallas-according-to-study/ |
West Virginia motorcyclist thrown into concrete pole, killed in Port St. John Wednesday night
A 26-year-old West Virginia man was killed Wednesday night in Port St. John when his motorcycle was hit by an SUV, throwing him into a concrete pole, highway troopers said.
The Lost Creek, West Virginia man was driving his 2020 Yamaha motorcycle south on U.S. 1 just before 6:14 p.m. Wednesday when a 2022 Toyota RAV4, driven by a 59-year-old Cocoa woman, began to turn onto Palm Street from the northbound lane of U.S. 1, the Florida Highway Patrol said.
The motorcyclist, who witnesses said was driving above the speed limit, split the lane between two vehicles, entering the path of the RAV4.
The RAV4 struck the motorcyclist, throwing the man from his motorcycle, troopers said. Both the man and the motorcycle were thrown into a concrete pole.
The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers did not know if he was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
The woman was uninjured and remained at the crash site.
Man charged after shooting gator, sheriff's office says:Brevard man arrested after shooting alligator with pellet gun, Sheriff's Office says
Bank robbed in Melbourne Wednesday:Sebastian man charged with armed bank robbery in Melbourne
FHP did not release the name of those involved in the crash, citing Marsy's Law passed in 2018.
Introduced in memory of a young woman murdered by her ex-boyfriend, Marsy’s Law was created to give crime victims a slate of rights, including protecting them and their families from harassment by their attackers.
Some law enforcement officials have interpreted the statute as applying to any victim, as well as to law enforcement officers being entitled to privacy and having their identity protected.
Finch Walker is a Breaking News Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Walker at 321-290-4744 or fwalker@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @_finchwalker | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/motorcyclist-hit-and-thrown-into-concrete-pole-port-st-john/10116339002/ | 2022-07-21T18:18:00 | 0 | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/motorcyclist-hit-and-thrown-into-concrete-pole-port-st-john/10116339002/ |
Pedestrian struck and killed at night along busy roadway in north Melbourne
A 26-year-old pedestrian was killed after being struck by three vehicles while attempting to cross U.S. 1 in north Melbourne late Wednesday, the Florida Highway Patrol reported.
The incident happened at about 10:40 p.m. at U.S. 1 and Friendship Place.
FHP troopers said the man, from Melbourne, was walking west across the northbound lane when he was struck by the front left side of a sedan.
2022 Dangerous by Design list:Brevard ranks as USA's 12th most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrian safety
More recent pedestrian fatalities:Pedestrian killed on State Road 528 in Cocoa
And:Palm Bay man, 45, killed in Friday night crash on I-95 near Rockledge
He fell into the inside lane and into the path of an oncoming van, troopers reported. A sport utility vehicle also ran over the pedestrian.
The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, the highway patrol reported. None of the drivers, all from Brevard County, were injured and all stopped and remained at the scene.
Troopers said the area where the man attempted to cross the roadway was not marked as a crosswalk.
No charges were filed and an investigation is ongoing.
The FHP did not release the names of anyone involved, citing Marsy's Law, passed in 2018.
More:Sebastian man charged with armed bank robbery in Melbourne
Introduced in memory of a young woman murdered by her ex-boyfriend, Marsy’s Law was created to offer crime victims a slate of rights, including protecting them and their families from harassment by their attackers.
Some law enforcement officials have interpreted the statute as applying to any victim, as well as to law enforcement officers being entitled to privacy and having their identity protected.
J.D. Gallop is a Criminal Justice/Breaking News Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Gallop at 321-917-4641 or jgallop@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @JDGallop. | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/pedestrian-struck-crossing-u-s-1-north-melbourne/10117008002/ | 2022-07-21T18:18:07 | 1 | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/pedestrian-struck-crossing-u-s-1-north-melbourne/10117008002/ |
BLACKSBURG, Va. – The Virginia Rail Policy Institute, a transportation service in Henrico County, has released a report suggesting that the New River Valley passenger rail service include a stop at Virginia Tech.
This comes after former Gov. Ralph Northam announced that an Amtrak station would be coming to the New River Valley back in May 2021, marking its first passenger rail station since 1979. Then in Jan. 2022, Virginia and Norfolk Southern reached a definitive agreement to bring a passenger rail service to the NRV. The project is estimated to cost $257.2 million with work expected to begin by 2025.
On April 30, 2022, the Virginia Rail Policy Institute held a New River Valley Rail Facilities Tour to examine the station site. While there, railroad professionals worked to determine what would be needed for the public to “best leverage its purchase of the Virginian line to move the most people.”
While the report did not include final proposals, the organization did include several suggestions that they feel would help make the station the best it could be. A key topic of discussion included adding a stop at Virginia Tech in the passenger rail service.
“We mused since most train riders between Roanoke and Bristol will be from Virginia Tech, why not maximize train ridership by directly accessing the Virginia Tech campus by rail and avoid a transfer penalty at the proposed New River Valley Mall-West station,” the report read.
The Virginia Rail Policy Institute is proposing a new alignment, which they have referred to in the report as the “Blacksburg Rail Extension or the Hokie Line, which would branch from the Virginian Line in Ellet Valley.
The report pointed out that the V-Line rail facilities could be repurposed to transport thousands, which the report noted result in a complete diversion of I-81 and US-460.
The institute report also suggests that Christiansburg and Radford receive individual stations.
You can read the full report below:
NRV Rail Facilities Tour Report by WSLS on Scribd | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2022/07/21/new-river-valley-passenger-rail-service-should-include-stop-at-virginia-tech-report-says/ | 2022-07-21T18:19:00 | 1 | https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2022/07/21/new-river-valley-passenger-rail-service-should-include-stop-at-virginia-tech-report-says/ |
MINNEAPOLIS — Former Minneapolis police officer Thomas Lane was sentenced to 30 months in prison Thursday by a federal judge for his role in the killing of George Floyd.
U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson recommended Lane serve his sentence in Duluth, and also sentenced the ex-officer to two years of supervised release. Lane was ordered to surrender by Oct. 4, 2022 and can have no contact with Floyd's family without prior consent of a probation officer.
Lane will also have to pay mandatory restitution.
Before Judge Magnuson handed down his sentence, several members of George Floyd's family delivered victim impact statements to the courtroom, including Philonise Floyd, George Floyd's brother and Brandon Williams, Floyd's nephew.
Speaking directly to Lane, Floyd's girlfriend Courteney Ross said, "I don't think you're a bad guy. I think you are one man in a system that perpetuates ideologies that are based in supremacy and hate. Neither you or I started it, but we must be the ones to stop it."
Outside the federal courthouse following the sentencing George Floyd's brother Philonise and his nephew Brandon Williams both expressed frustration at the length of the sentence, saying Lane should have been given the statutory maximum.
"I just don’t understand how can you just give somebody the minimum of time that YOU want to give them, and you seen on the video, he did not try to reposition my brother, he did not try to administer CPR to my brother, they basically all of them together just stood there and gave my brother no option but to die," Philonise Floyd fumed. "No option but for the world to see a video of a man being murdered in broad daylight."
"We’re pissed off, we’re fed up, it’s happening time and time again," added Williams. "These guys are murderers. These guys didn’t go and accidentally push somebody on the ground, they murdered a man in broad daylight, and yet at his discretion he chooses to give lighter sentences then his guidelines. It’s ridiculous…. It’s a slap in the face."
Lane is one of three former Minneapolis officers who were convicted by a federal jury in February of violating Floyd's civil rights by depriving him of medical care. He faces a separate sentencing Sept. 21 in state court after changing his plea to guilty to a reduced charge of aiding and abetting manslaughter.
Lane's attorney Earl Gray had argued that the rookie was the least culpable of the four officers involved in Floyd’s death under Officer Derek Chauvin's knee in May 2020. The killing sparked protests in Minneapolis and around the world, and launched a national reckoning on race. In the federal courthouse in St. Paul Thursday, Gray asked the judge for a 27 month sentence, while prosecutors reiterated their request for 63-78 months.
Lane and fellow rookie J. Alexander Kueng helped restrain Floyd while Chauvin, who is white and was the most senior officer on the scene, killed Floyd by kneeling on his neck for nearly 9 1/2 minutes despite the handcuffed and unarmed Black man’s fading pleas that he couldn’t breathe. Chauvin’s partner, Tou Thao, helped hold back an increasingly concerned group of onlookers outside a Minneapolis convenience store where Floyd tried to pass a counterfeit $20 bill.
Gray argued during the trial that Lane "did everything he could possibly do to help George Floyd.” He pointed out that Lane suggested rolling Floyd on his side so he could breathe, but was rebuffed twice by Chauvin. He also noted that Lane performed CPR to try to revive Floyd after the ambulance arrived.
"Any reasonable person should just be disgusted, should be infuriated” that Lane was ever charged, Gray told jurors in his closing argument.
Lane testified he didn’t realize how dire Floyd’s condition was until paramedics turned him over. Prosecutor Manda Sertich countered that his expressions of concern showed he knew Floyd was in distress but “did nothing to give Mr. Floyd the medical aid he knew Mr. Floyd so desperately needed.”
When Lane pleaded guilty in state court in May, Gray said Lane hoped to avoid a long sentence. “He has a newborn baby and did not want to risk not being part of the child’s life,” he said.
Chauvin pleaded guilty to separate federal civil rights charges in December in Floyd's killing and in an unrelated case involving a Black teenager. The former Field Training Officer received a 21-year sentence when he appeared before Magnuson two weeks ago, toward the low end of the range of 20 to 25 years both sides agreed to under his plea deal.
Chauvin was already serving a 22 1/2-year state court sentence for second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. His federal and state sentences are running concurrently. While his plea agreement meant accepting nearly three more years behind bars than his state sentence alone, he's expected to be safer and have more freedom in the long run. Minnesota corrections officials have kept Chauvin in solitary confinement in the state's maximum security prison for his own safety, given his notoriety. He has not yet been transferred to the federal prison system.
Magnuson has not set sentencing dates for Thao and Kueng, but he has scheduled a hearing for Friday on objections by their attorneys to how their sentences should be calculated under the complicated federal guidelines. Prosecutors are seeking unspecified sentences for them that would be lower than Chauvin's but "substantially higher” than Lane's.
Thao and Kueng, who have turned down plea deals, are scheduled to go on trial Oct. 24 on state charges of aiding and abetting both second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Watch the latest coverage on the death of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin in our YouTube playlists: | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/minneapolis-police-thomas-lane-federal-charges-sentencing-george-floyd/89-2d095128-bdfa-436c-baad-e70bd25bedec | 2022-07-21T18:20:51 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/george-floyd/minneapolis-police-thomas-lane-federal-charges-sentencing-george-floyd/89-2d095128-bdfa-436c-baad-e70bd25bedec |
SARASOTA, Fla. — A Newtown baseball icon had his mural unveiled Thursday morning in the Rosemary Art and Design District, previously known as Overtown.
John 'Buck' O'Neil, the first Black coach in Major League Baseball and a talented first baseman in the Negro League, will have a permanent mural located near the intersection of North Lemon Avenue and Boulevard of the Arts.
The mural was painted by artist Matt McAllister.
O'Neil was born on Nov. 13, 1911, in Carrabelle, Florida but grew up in Sarasota. He rose to national prominence early on in his career in the Negro American League playing with the Kansas City Monarchs.
O'Neil spent years with the Chicago Cubs. He was first hired as a scout in 1955 and then became a coach in 1962 but was never allowed to manage a team.
O'Neil, who was raised in the Newtown neighborhood of Sarasota, moved to the area with his family at a young age. He had worked in the fields picking celery. At the time, young Black children were not allowed to continue their education into high school in many communities due to Jim Crow laws; thus, he was barred from enrolling in Sarasota High School.
Faced with discrimination because of his skin color, he moved to Jacksonville where he had family. He was able to attend high school and take college courses at Edward Waters College, a private Christian-run institution that was the first historically Black college in Florida.
O'Neil had early successes while playing in the Negro League for the Kansas City Monarchs. However, on Oct. 16, 1940, he registered with the Sarasota County Draft Board at the start of World War II, and his life of baseball was briefly interrupted when he was drafted into the Navy in 1943. He served his enlistment in a naval construction battalion in New Jersey from 1944 to 1945, which took him to the Philippines. He returned to the Monarchs at the start of the 1946 season.
After retiring from a life of baseball, O'Neil went on to many achievements, including establishing the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) in Kansas City, for which he served as its honorary board chairman.
O'Neil died on Oct. 6, 2006, at the age of 94 due to heart failure and bone marrow cancer.
The Overtown, also known as Black Bottom, dates back to 1885 but never appeared on any maps, the Herald-Tribune reports. It was a tightly packed segregated village north of downtown Sarasota.
Most recently, efforts have been made to preserve the cultural history of Overtown through the strategic application of creativity + design by DreamLarge's initiative, Rosemary Art & Design District. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/sarasotacounty/john-buck-oneil-overtown-newtown-mural-mlb-rosemary/67-f0b5d21f-1145-4fb7-b67c-9404e760b7ce | 2022-07-21T18:20:52 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/sarasotacounty/john-buck-oneil-overtown-newtown-mural-mlb-rosemary/67-f0b5d21f-1145-4fb7-b67c-9404e760b7ce |
SARASOTA, Fla. — The Sarasota Police Department is collecting school supplies now until Aug. 3 for students in need.
Those interested in donating can drop off supplies at:
- Sarasota Police Department Headquarters, 2099 Adams Lane
- Core SRQ, 1075 South Euclid Avenue
The police are asking for the following items to be donated:
- Pencils
- Notebooks
- Rulers
- Ballpoint pens
- Colored pencils
- Staplers
- Calculators
- Markers
- Crayons
- Folders
- Notebook paper
- Backpacks
- Glue
- Highlights
- Erasers
As you prepare to send your students back, 10 Tampa Bay looked into how to view your school's performance scores. Florida schools exceeded expectations in recently released school grades for the 2021-22 academic year, the Department of Education announced.
The department published grades for the 2021-22 academic year on Thursday, marking the first full school grade data release since 2019, according to an FDOE press release. This is due to a lack of assessments in the 2019-20 school year and the opt-in nature of that year's school grades.
"It’s clear that our teachers and school leaders used every resource at their disposal to lift Florida’s students well beyond expectations," Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. said in a statement. "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."
The school grades report showed that 53 schools exited the School Improvement Support list in 2022 and that 100% of the schools that received an F grade in 2019 improved their grades in 2022.
Elementary schools showed the most growth with 20% of them improving one or more letter grades, according to the FDOE press release.
So, how can you view your district's and school's grade for the year?
To view the accountability report for Florida schools follow this link: https://www.fldoe.org/accountability/accountability-reporting/school-grades/
Here you can access school grades, district grades, improvement ratings and more. Follow this link to view school grades. It will take you to an Excel File. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/sarasotacounty/sarasota-school-supplies-police-students-donations/67-27f3d57d-6d1a-445b-bc3a-f17f340ed695 | 2022-07-21T18:20:56 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/sarasotacounty/sarasota-school-supplies-police-students-donations/67-27f3d57d-6d1a-445b-bc3a-f17f340ed695 |
Photos: Carroll County Fair returns
The Repository
CARROLLTON – The Carroll County Fair opened Tuesday and continues through Sunday.
The fair, which was founded in 1850, features Junior Fair livestock shows, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, animal sales, mechanical rides, food, horse pulls and live music.
Some highlights include:
- The Buckeye Rodeo Co. will host a sanctioned rodeo at 7 p.m. Saturday.
- Square dance from 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday at the Ashton Event Center.
- Derbydog Productions will host a demolition derby at 6 p.m. Sunday.
Admission is $10 daily and includes rides.
For a full list of events and hours, go to: www.carrollcountyfairohio.com. The county fairgrounds complex is at 160 Kensington Road NE. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/photos-2022-carroll-county-fair/10105408002/ | 2022-07-21T18:22:30 | 1 | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/photos-2022-carroll-county-fair/10105408002/ |
AURORA, Colo. — Ten years ago, a shooter walked into a Century 16 movie theater in Aurora, killing 12 people and wounding 70 others.
Lasamoa Lanier, then Lasamoa Cross, went to the "Dark Knight Rises" premiere with her fiancé, AJ Boik. They sat near the front of the movie theater. Not long after the opening scene, Lasamoa remembers seeing the emergency exit door open.
“I could see this black silhouette of a guy standing there and I could see a gun strapped,” she said.
After a canister flies several rows behind her and AJ, she hears a hissing noise and then people start to scream.
“I turn around and look and there were people just jumping out of the rows to get out of the theater,” she said. “It was insane.”
AJ grabbed her hand and told her they needed to leave. She could feel AJ fall backwards, and her reaction was to cover him.
AJ was shot twice. He was 18 when he was killed.
“I think that is what is hard, too. I didn’t even get to say bye, you know,” she said.
When words were hard to speak, Lasamoa found comfort in writing.
“Journaling helps me get it all out. Helps me say the things I can’t say out loud,” Lasamoa said.
She started writing to AJ. She still has all of the journals, along with the hat she wore to the movies that night and the last photo she and AJ took in the theater.
During the trial after the shooting, she heard the testimony of police officers who shared just as much trauma as she did on July 20, 2012.
She decided to write letters to Aurora police officers to thank them.
“Having lost someone doing something innocent like watching a movie – what are they doing? Where are they at? Are they OK?” she thought about the officers.
Officer Cody Lanier got one of those letters. He was Lasamoa’s former school resource officer at Gateway High. Cody responded to the theater before heading to the school, where families were gathering.
Lasamoa saw him the night of the shooting helping families find loved ones.
“I told him to help me find AJ,” she said.
“I had this person in front of me, approaching me, 'where is my boyfriend?'” said Cody.
AJ’s mom came to the school. Cody went up to her to tell her AJ was not on any of the hospital lists.
Cody felt like he had failed the family and Lasamoa. She didn’t see it that way, so Lasamoa showed Cody why his work that night mattered by writing him a letter.
“I have always thought of you as a headstrong determined and courageous person for having the amount of strive to serve and protect Gateway, Aurora and your family. Every single day,” said the letter. “And that alone has changed my life all together.”
“I don’t think I made it through three sentences in that thing and I’m tearing up,” Cody said.
Her note to Cody also included a photo that Lasamoa says was taken by a newspaper photographer. When Cody saw it, he knew it was taken right after he’d told AJ’s mom her son probably didn’t survive.
“And I didn’t know that when I found this photo,” Lasamoa said. “I was just like, oh yeah, that’s Cody. I remember him.”
Cody said he remembers standing in the doorway of his car right after telling AJ’s mom the worst news.
“This is absolutely the worst singular event I could imagine as a cop,” he said.
Even with the bad, came something good. That night sparked a new friendship.
After dropping off the letter at Gateway High School, Cody and Lasamoa went to lunch at Chipotle. What was supposed to be an hour lunch turned into four hours.
Their connection helped them heal as Lasamoa continued to lean on photography. She picked up a camera after the shooting so she could capture happy moments. She loves to be the person that helps others recognize the life they live is a great one.
“Photography was my way of grounding myself and remembering things,” she said. “Taking time to hear what is going on around me. Take a deep breath. Go slower. Relax.”
Cody picked up weights to work through his trauma.
“Mental health stuff is huge, right?” he said.
As the years went by, the friends relied on each other more and became stronger together.
“In a way, La kind of filled this gap,” Cody said. “Beyond that it was just this connection. Every day since she turned into my best friend.”
Lasamoa said Cody was always the buddy. And then she felt something more.
On October 3, 2021, they got married. Even they can’t believe it.
A letter and a lunch at Chipotle turned into something beautiful.
Nine years after that lunch, they got married in October 2021. They served Chipotle at their wedding rehearsal dinner.
“Oh yeah, it’s crazy. Who knew. I didn’t,” Lasamoa said.
“Beauty from ashes, man. I don’t know what I would do without her,” Cody said.
The family Lasamoa and Cody have created shows how far they have come.
They know their life hasn’t been picture perfect, but it led to beautiful moments together.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Aurora theater shooting, 10 years later | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/aurora-theater-shooting-survivor-marries-officer-who-responded/73-a59b4e65-5f48-4217-bcda-c19dbfe7b71e | 2022-07-21T18:23:26 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/aurora-theater-shooting-survivor-marries-officer-who-responded/73-a59b4e65-5f48-4217-bcda-c19dbfe7b71e |
TEXAS, USA — Editor's Note: the above video is from a June 2022 story related to a shortage of beds in state mental hospitals
While seemingly all parts of Texas deal with a scorching hot summer, the state's prison system continues to have issues giving inmates and employees consistent access to air conditioning.
Temperatures inside Texas prisons regularly reach 110 degrees and topped out at 149 in at least one unit, according to a July study from the Texas A&M University Hazard Reduction & Recovery Center.
However, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), the agency said the average temperature of unit housing areas that do not have air conditioning in the month of June was 89.2 degrees. It also said the average for the first 11 days of July was 91.4 degrees. This is based on temperature taken in consistent sample areas from each unit, according to TDCJ.
Texas is one of at least 13 states that does not have universal air-conditioning in its state prisons. According to a risk management training article from TDCJ, someone can begin to feel the impact of heat exhaustion as low as 80 degrees. It also added the risk for heat stroke starts at 91 degrees.
The issue of how hot it can and does get in Texas jails has been an ongoing issue for years. In 2017, as part of a court order, Texas submitted a plan to move about 1,000 medically-sensitive inmates from the Pack Unit southeast of College Station, which is not air-conditioned, to other state jails and prisons that do have air conditioning. The plan came after a federal judge ordered air conditioning for the inmates in a scathing ruling against the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in July.
At least 23 documented heat-related deaths of incarcerated people have also been recorded by the TDCJ since 1998, according to the Texas A&M study.
It wasn't until 20 years later that policy change related to heat came into the fold. In 2018, TDCJ mediated 10 lawsuits connected to heat issues and air-conditioning in its prisons. The agency would be legally required to put vulnerable incarcerated people in air-conditioned facilities. TDCJ also updated its heat mitigation policies.
As a part of this mediation, TDCJ implemented other changes as well for all inmates that involved creating cooled areas, providing water and ice, implementing additional showers when possible, allowing incarcerated people to wear cooler clothing options at times, and allowing the purchase of cooling items from the prison commissary, according to the Texas A&M study.
Since then, TDCJ said revisions were made on May 8, 2020, under the "Excessive and Extreme Temperature Conditions" category. Primary changes included adding language clarifying notification procedures once an offender is identified as at-risk. It also added language regarding offender access to respite areas and proper designation of the respite areas and the importance of prioritizing maintenance work orders to keep air conditioning units, shower temperatures, fans, ice machines, and other vital areas functional during excessive heat conditions. This revision codified processes that were already in place, according to TDCJ.
Of the state's nearly 100 prison facilities, 70% do not have air-conditioning, according to a 2021 Texas Tribune article.
The Texas A&M University Hazard Reduction & Recovery Center study looked at 309 surveys, which were distributed by the Texas Prisons Community Advocates to incarcerated people in 57 TDCJ units between October 2018 and December 2020.
The subjects covered in the surveys relate to:
- Experience with heat-related illness
- Experiences with heat restrictions.
- Knowledge of heat-related deaths
- The provision of resources (water, cups, ice)
- Access to and experience with showers
- Access to and experience with respite areas
- Access to and conditions of fans and other infrastructure
- Work-related experiences with heat
- Accessibility and availability of cooling commissary items
- Filing grievances
To read more about this study, click here. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-prisons-heat-issues-110-degrees-july-2022/287-9724faa7-9b6f-4661-9ca1-909c50b82b45 | 2022-07-21T18:23:32 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-prisons-heat-issues-110-degrees-july-2022/287-9724faa7-9b6f-4661-9ca1-909c50b82b45 |
...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of northwestern
Dougherty, southeastern Randolph, western Lee, northeastern Calhoun
and Terrell Counties in southwestern Georgia through 300 PM EDT...
At 209 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along
a line extending from 6 miles north of Morgan to 9 miles southeast of
Dawson. Movement was northeast at 15 mph.
HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and pea size hail.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is
possible.
Locations impacted include...
Dawson, Leesburg, Albany, Sasser, Bronwood, Stocks, Forrester,
Bridges Crossroad, Palmyra, Century, Herod, Jordan Place, Cordrays
Mill, Clarks Mill, Dawson Municipal A/P, Starksville, Byne
Crossroads, Graves, Armena and Aycock Mill.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.
&&
MAX HAIL SIZE...0.25 IN;
MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH
Work has begun on Phase A of the Albany T-SPLOST Resurfacing Plan, which is expected to be completed in 180 days.
ALBANY – On July 11, Reeves Construction Co. began its work on Phase A of the Albany T-SPLOST Resurfacing Plan. The contract is for 180 days, but the schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
For any questions, contact Scott Tennison or Don McCook at the city of Albany Public Works Department at (229) 302-1800.
Below is a copy of the order in which the Phase A roads are to be paved:
1. Randolph Avenue from Newton Road to Habersham Road
2. Habersham Road from Oakridge Drive to Darr Lane.
3. Forsythe Lane from Newton Road to Habersham Road
4. Darr Lane from Newton Road to Habersham Road
5. Henri Avenue from North Maple Street to Elva Avenue
6. North Maple Street from Henri Avenue to Cromartie Beach Road
7. Faulk Court from Hobson Street to cul-de-sac
8. Faulk Lane from Exeter Drive to Hobson Street
9. Hubert Ave. from North Mock Road to cul-de-sac
10. Marie Road from Clark Avenue to East Broad Avenue
11. Andrew Avenue from Hunter Street to Thompson Drive
12. South West Road from East broad Avenue to Valentine Avenue
13. Valentine Avenue from South West Road to Hunter Street
14. Hunter Street from Andrew Avenue to Kieve Avenue
15. Kieve Avenue from South West Road to Thornton Drive
16. Essex Court from Enterprise Drive to cul-de-sac
17. Cone Street from Clark Avenue to Leonard Avenue
18. Espey Drive from Eighth Avenue to Ninth avenue
19. Walden Court from Schley Avenue to cul-de-sac
20. Haverhill Court from Schley Avenue to cul-de-sac
21. Lady Marion Lane from Barnesdale Way to Doncaster Drive
22. West Doublegate Drive from Old Dawson Road to city limits
23. Jim Strokes Court from East Culberson Drive to cul-de-sac
24. Kinloch Court from West Alberson Drive to cul-de-sac
25. Old Dominion Road from East Alberson Drive to cul-de-sac
26. King Court from Winchester Road to dead end
27. Warwick Avenue from West Doublegate Drive to city limits
28. Chapman Drive from Westgate Drive to Pheasant Drive
29. Crepe Myrtle Court from Beattie Road to cul-de-sac
30. Lucille Avenue from Dawson Road to Baker Street
31. Peachtree Terrace from Eugmar Drive to Lucille Avenue
32. Dawson Road from North Slappey Drive to Westgate Drive
33. Greenwood Drive from Dawson Road to Lynnwood Lane
34. Pineknoll Lane from Magnolia Street to Edgewater Drive
35. Lynnwood Lane from Greenwood Drive to Lakeview Road
36. Valley Road from Dawson Road to Lowell Lane
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accounts, the history behind an article. | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/city-of-albany-has-began-work-on-t-splost-resurfacing-plan/article_13011a50-091b-11ed-ad00-0bd88a084b50.html | 2022-07-21T18:25:42 | 1 | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/city-of-albany-has-began-work-on-t-splost-resurfacing-plan/article_13011a50-091b-11ed-ad00-0bd88a084b50.html |
Update: The Virginia Department of Transportation at 1:15 p.m. said all lanes have reopened.
Crews have closed Route 10/West Hundred Road in Chesterfield as emergency utility work is done.
Westbound and eastbound lanes near Harbour East Drive are closed until further notice, the Virginia Department of Transportation said.
"Drivers should use alternate routes and expect delays until further notice," VDOT said.
From the archives: In 1960, The Richmond 34 were arrested during a sit-in at the Thalhimers lunch counter
Demonstrators are arrested and charged with trespassing at Thalhimers department store on Feb. 22, 1960. Those arrested would not leave after being refused service at a tearoom and a lunch counter.
TIMES-DISPATCH FILE PHOTO
Crowd inside Thalhimers department store the day of demonstration and arrests. Photo was not published. Photo taken Feb. 22, 1960. Was received by Times-Dispatch library on February 23, 1960
FILE PHOTO
The Rev. Frank Pinkston, a 23-year-old Baptist ministerial student from Silver Springs, Fla., is arrested and charged with trespassing at Thalhimers department store on Feb. 22, 1960. Those arrested would not leave after being refused service at a tearoom and a lunch counter.
TIMES-DISPATCH FILE PHOTO
Crowd at city lock-up after 34 demonstrators were arrested and charged with trespassing at Thalhimers department store. Those arrested would not leave after being refused service at a tearoom and a lunch counter.
TIMES-DISPATCH FILE PHOTO
Front page of the Richmond Times-Dispatch from Feb. 23, 1960. An article about arrests at the Thalhimers sit-in is in the bottom right corner.
The story that ran on the Feb. 23, 1960 front page of the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Page 4 of the Richmond Times-Dispatch from Tuesday, February 23, 1960.
Photo from page 4 of the Richmond Times-Dispatch from Feb. 23, 1960.
Published caption: "Mounted and K-9 Squad Policemen Break Up Crowd at Lock-Up After Arrests"
TIMES-DISPATCH FILE PHOTO
Thalhimers picket and protest
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Thalhimers picket and protest.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Thalhimers picket and protest
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
LeRoy Bray arrested at Thalhimers department store as students from Virginia Union University attempt to get service in whites-only dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Frank Pinkston, lower right, at Thalhimers department store, outside the Richmond Room, Feb. 22, 1960, in an attempt to be seated in segregated dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Protest at Thalhimers department store in downtown Richmond as Virginia Union University students attempted to get served in whites-only dining areas. Dr. Marshall Banks is at left, against the wall. Cornell Moore is behind him.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Pickets outside Thalhimers department store in downtown Richmond as Virginia Union University students attempted to get served in whites-only dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Pickets outside Thalhimers department store in downtown Richmond as Virginia Union University students attempted to get served in whites-only dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Frank Pinkston, lower right, at Thalhimers department store, outside the Richmond Room, Feb. 22, 1960, in an attempt to be seated in segregated dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Protest at Thalhimers department store in downtown Richmond as Virginia Union University students attempted to get served in whites-only dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Protest at Thalhimers department store in downtown Richmond as Virginia Union University students attempted to get served in whites-only dining areas.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Thalhimers picket and protest.
Anderson Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center
Elizabeth Johnson Rice was the speaker of the "Civil Rights Day of Remembrance" at the former Thalhimers Department Store on Broad Street on Sunday, February 22, 2004. Rice returned to Richmond to commemorate the 44th anniversary of their protest over lunch counter segregation.
CINDY BLANCHARD
Viewers stand under umbrellas on Feb. 22, 2010 during the unveiling of a marker commemorating the Thalhimers sit-in and the Richmond 34.
DEAN HOFFMEYER
Elizabeth Thalhimer-Smartt (left) and Elizabeth Johnson-Rice pull back the cover over a marker commemorating the Thalhimers sit-in and the Richmond 34 on Feb. 22, 2010.
DEAN HOFFMEYER
Rev. Leroy M. Bray, Jr. photographed Wed. Feb. 10, 2010 in Richmond. Mr. Bray was one of 34 VUU students arrested for defying segregation and will be speaking at 50th anniversary events.
MARK GORMUS
Elizabeth Johnson Rice, one of the 34 VUU students arrested in 1960 lunch-counter sit-in at Thalhimers.
COURTESY OF ELIZABETH JOHNSON RICE
Elizabeth Johnson Rice in her VUU yearbook photo
Virginia Union University
Del. Mamye E. BaCote, D-Newport News, center, received a standing ovation during the floor session of the House of Delegates in Richmond on Monday, Feb. 22, 2010. BaCote had just revealed that she was one of the "Richmond 34" who staged a sit-in at the all-white Thalhimers lunch room when she was a student at Virginia Union University.
BOB BROWN
Ford T. Johnson of Maryland unveils the historical marker commemorating the "Richmond 34," a group of mostly 34 Virginia Union University students arrested during a sit-in at the Thalhimers department store. Johnson, who is one of the 34, was accompanied by three others who took part in the sit-in: (from left): Johnson's sister, Elizabeth Johnson Rice; Raymond B. Randolph Jr. of Farmington Hills, Michigan (third from left); and Wendell Foster of Richmond (fourth from left). The unveiling took place along Broad Street, between 6th and 7th streets on June 28, 2016.
P. KEVIN MORLEY/TIMES-DISPATCH
Elizabeth Johnson Rice speaks during the unveiling of an historical marker commemorating the 1960 "Richmond Sit-In" of 34 Virginia Union University students at the Thalhimers department store lunchroom. Rice is one of the 34 students who took part in the sit-in. The ceremony took place on Broad Street between 6th and 7th Streets. June 28, 2016.
P. KEVIN MORLEY/TIMES-DISPATCH
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, right, welcomed the Rev. Leroy M. Bray, Jr., left, and his wife, Cynthia, center to the Executive Mansion in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. They were part of a group of black leaders, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who stages a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, right, talks with Rev. Dr. Claude Perkins, left, and his wife Cheryl, center, inside the Executive Mansion in Richmond, on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. They were part of a group of black leaders, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, left,, welcomed Dr. Roland Moore, right, and his wife, Blanche, center, to the Executive Mansion in Richmond, VA Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. They were part of a group of black leaders, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, left, welcomed, from left, retired judge Birdie Hairston Jamison, Dr. Anderson J. Franklin and Elizabeth Rice to the Executive Mansion in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. They were part of a group of black leaders, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960. Franklin and Rice were two of the original 34.
BOB BROWN
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, center, welcomed black leaders and some members of the Richmond 34 to the Executive Mansion in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. They were part of a group of black leaders, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimer's lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Virginia First Lady Pam Northam, left, watches as her husband, Governor Ralph Northam, right, talks with Rev. Dr. Claude Perkins, center left, and his wife Cheryl, center right, inside the Executive Mansion in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. The Perkins were part of a group of black leaders, visiting the Mansion, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Rev. Dr. Claude Perkins, left, and his wife Cheryl, second from left, talk with Virginia Governor Ralph Northam and First Lady Pam Northam inside the Executive Mansion in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. The Perkins were part of a group of black leaders, visiting the Mansion, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Elizabeth Johnson Rice, center, surrounded by lawmakers and several other original members of the Richmond 34, were honored by the House of Delegates inside the State Capitol in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. The Richmond 34 staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch room in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, center, welcomed black leaders and some members of the Richmond 34 to the Executive Mansion in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. They were part of a group of black leaders, some of whom were members of the Richmond 34, who staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch counter in 1960.
BOB BROWN
Del. Delores McQuinn, D-Richmond, left, stands with Elizabeth Johnson Rice, center, surrounded by several other original members of the Richmond 34, from left, Dr. Anderson J. Franklin, Rev. Leroy M. Bray, Jr. and Wendell Foster, pose after they were honored by the House of Delegates inside the State Capitol in Richmond on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019. The Richmond 34 staged a sit-in at Thalhimers lunch room in 1960.
BOB BROWN | https://richmond.com/news/local/update-route-10-west-hundred-road-reopens/article_3513a0e2-6e5a-5ca8-ac9d-69a34b303442.html | 2022-07-21T18:26:15 | 1 | https://richmond.com/news/local/update-route-10-west-hundred-road-reopens/article_3513a0e2-6e5a-5ca8-ac9d-69a34b303442.html |
A Silver Alert has been issued for a 52-year-old Hammond woman missing since Monday evening, Indiana State Police said.
Michelle Delane is 4 feet 11, weighs 130 pounds, has blonde hair and blue eyes. She was wearing a white T-shirt with “Levi’s” on the front, blue sweatpants, and black and white sneakers.
Delane is believed to be in extreme danger and may need medical help.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hammond Police Department at 219-660-0000 or 911. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/indiana/silver-alert-issued-for-hammond-woman/article_251b920a-08ef-11ed-b7d4-e30ff061ff56.html | 2022-07-21T18:26:41 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/indiana/silver-alert-issued-for-hammond-woman/article_251b920a-08ef-11ed-b7d4-e30ff061ff56.html |
INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Senate Republicans proposed a bill Wednesday that would ban all abortions except for cases of rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother.
State Sen. Sue Glick, R-LaGrange, introduced the proposal – Senate Bill 1 – at a news conference alongside Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray, R-Martinsville.
Glick, who authored the bill, mentioned the bill’s exceptions and said it would not affect access to Plan B, birth control, in vitro fertilization or treatment of ectopic pregnancies and miscarriages.
“We recognize that there are heartbreaking cases where, because of violence committed against women and young girls, we have provided some additional exceptions,” Glick said.
She also said the bill contains no new penalties for doctors who perform abortions and that it will not criminalize women.
If passed, the law would be among the most strict abortion bans in the United States. Only a few states, including Alabama and Arkansas, have more restrictive policies which do not include exceptions for cases of rape or incest.
Under current law, abortion is legal until the 22nd week of pregnancy – but that could change soon if state legislators pass Glick’s bill during the upcoming special session beginning Monday.
Republicans hold supermajorities in both the Senate and the House, so Senate Bill 1 has good odds of passing during the session.
According to the schedule released Wednesday by Republican senate leadership, the bill will be sent to the Committee on Rules and Legislative Procedure. That body will meet and hear testimony from the public Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning.
Senators will debate and offer amendments on Senate Bill 1 and other bills on July 28, and a final vote is scheduled for July 29.
Bray also introduced another proposal, Senate Bill 2. Written by state Sen. Ryan Mishler, R-Bremen, the second bill would introduce $50 million in funding that could go toward programs for women and families.
Of that, $5 million would be spent on raising the state’s adoption tax credit from $1,000 to $10,000. The other $45 million would be allocated to a new fund, the Hoosier Families First Fund.
That fund would be used to provide money for programs to “support the health of pregnant women, postpartum mothers, and infants,” address barriers to “long acting reversible contraception” and support low-income families with young children, among other services.
House Speaker Todd Huston, R-Fishers, released a statement in response to Wednesday’s news conference. He shared the House’s tentative schedule for next week as well as the House GOP’s proposal – House Bill 1001 – on inflation relief and funding for women and families.
While the session can last until Aug. 14, Huston’s news release suggested lawmakers expect to conclude their business within two weeks of convening.
Indiana Democrats quickly responded to the proposal as House Minority Leader Phil GiaQuinta released a statement accusing Republicans of “gambling with the lives of Hoosier women to gain points in an ultimately unwinnable culture war.”
Senate Minority Leader Greg Taylor, D-Indianapolis, addressed the media gathered in the Senate chambers shortly after Bray and Glick left the room. He called the bill a step back for Indiana and said an abortion ban will result in women dying.
Taylor also criticized the decision to send Senate Bill 1 to the Rules Committee instead of the Committee on Health and Provider Services.
“Legislators who review health legislation and have more insight and understanding of health issues should be the first ones to deliberate this proposal,” Taylor said. “I also think it would have made more sense for this bill to go to the Health Committee where six of the members are women. There are no relevant committees that this bill could have gone to with fewer women than the Rules Committee.”
He also speculated that some Senate Republicans may not show up to vote on the bill, although he did not suggest any names of GOP lawmakers who would break with their party.
“It intrigues me that it may take the Senate Democratic Caucus to show up in order for us to have a quorum in the General Assembly come Monday,” Taylor said.
Abortion rights groups have scheduled a rally against the proposed legislation for noon Monday at the Statehouse. Indiana Right to Life will rally there at 11 a.m. Tuesday. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/indiana/statehouse/indiana-republicans-propose-banning-abortion-with-exceptions/article_0b503183-a235-5669-bfc6-8d41f39853e4.html | 2022-07-21T18:26:47 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/indiana/statehouse/indiana-republicans-propose-banning-abortion-with-exceptions/article_0b503183-a235-5669-bfc6-8d41f39853e4.html |
A jury began deliberating this morning in the trial of Susan A. Behny, 75, accused of murdering her husband. A verdict is expected this afternoon.
Behny is accused of shooting Kenneth Ralph Behny, 74, in the back of the head with a shotgun on Nov. 8. She’s charged with murder and, if convicted, also faces a sentence enhancement for using a firearm during a crime.
During closing arguments, Allen County Deputy Prosecutor Tesa Helge said that Behny’s story of what happened — that her husband was killed by an intruder who didn’t steal anything — didn’t hold up to scrutiny. There was no trail of blood or mud or grass through the house in the 3600 block of Turf Lane, but there was a bruise on Susan Behny’s shoulder that witnesses testified was consistent from recoil with a shotgun not used correctly.
Defense attorney Tony Churchward argued that the evidence was circumstantial, that the prosecution hadn’t found the shotgun used in the homicide and that there’s no confession, motive or DNA and fingerprint evidence. Her husband’s life insurance was $3,000 and didn’t cover funeral expenses.
“What you have is speculation,” he said.
Susan Behny was dependent on her husband because she couldn’t drive, and he did the shopping and cooking. She couldn’t get around without a cane, and “he did everything for her,” Churchward said. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/jury-deliberating-in-case-involving-woman-accused-of-killing-husband/article_b51f4506-0910-11ed-9e0e-a72b897a7e07.html | 2022-07-21T18:26:53 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/jury-deliberating-in-case-involving-woman-accused-of-killing-husband/article_b51f4506-0910-11ed-9e0e-a72b897a7e07.html |
Old lumber company building demolished
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Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer names executive director | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/old-lumber-company-building-demolished-in-fort-wayne/article_98695cce-0877-11ed-87c9-b35f6d7c960b.html | 2022-07-21T18:26:59 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/old-lumber-company-building-demolished-in-fort-wayne/article_98695cce-0877-11ed-87c9-b35f6d7c960b.html |
Fort Wayne fire investigators are trying to determine the cause of a home blaze that left five children and an adult shaken, but uninjured early today.
Someone at the house reported a clothes dryer fire was spreading to the rest of the southeast side residence, 4402 Avondale, officials said.
Crews arrived at 1:08 a.m. and found smoke coming from the front of the house. Those inside safely escaped before firefighters arrived.
A small blaze on the first floor of the home was under control in less than 10 minutes. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/police-fire/5-children-1-adult-escape-fort-wayne-fire/article_eb34f692-08e1-11ed-bc4e-6b1fa098e6df.html | 2022-07-21T18:27:05 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/police-fire/5-children-1-adult-escape-fort-wayne-fire/article_eb34f692-08e1-11ed-bc4e-6b1fa098e6df.html |
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Dr. John Crawford, former Fort Wayne councilman, has died
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Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer names executive director | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/wheels-up/article_757f506e-0878-11ed-b7e5-4b9cf6932639.html | 2022-07-21T18:27:12 | 1 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/wheels-up/article_757f506e-0878-11ed-b7e5-4b9cf6932639.html |
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Zoo is celebrating the arrival of four new babies to its troop of long-tailed macaques.
Mae, Gemma, Bea and Emerald — or Emmie for short — were born in May, just weeks apart from each other.
The zoo's animal care staff says the four girls are having fun in their habitat, jumping on trees, running around and getting to know each other.
Female long-tailed macaques have a five-and-a-half to six-month-long pregnancy and give birth to a single baby. Weighing less than a pound, the newborn will cling tightly to its mother’s stomach as she travels.
Newborn macaques have a bare face with black hair that will lighten to gray beginning around 3 months old.
Baby macaques at the Indianapolis Zoo
There are 38 long-tailed macaques at the Indianapolis Zoo. Two of those are relatively new, too. The zoo announced the birth of two macaques earlier this year.
Long-tailed macaque Glenda gave birth to her first baby, Genevieve, on New Year’s Day. Then macaque Kathy added another baby, Cora, to the troop on Jan. 3.
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- What is it? Texas zoo captures 'strange image' of an unidentified creature | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/indianapolis-zoo-introduces-newborn-baby-macaques/531-d53a6b52-039b-47af-99e4-8d7d04ef32e9 | 2022-07-21T18:38:28 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/indianapolis-zoo-introduces-newborn-baby-macaques/531-d53a6b52-039b-47af-99e4-8d7d04ef32e9 |
TEXAS, USA — Editor's Note: The above video is from a previous report on South Texas drought conditions affecting ranchers.
The Texas Farm Bureau wants to remind farmers that they may be eligible for drought assistance from the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA).
The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) program helps Texas farmers with the following:
- the transportation of water to livestock;
- the above normal cost of mileage for transporting feed to livestock;
- additional feed purchase; and
- the above normal cost of transporting livestock to forage/grazing acres.*
*Hauling livestock one-way, one haul per animal reimbursement and no payment for “empty miles.”
Eligible livestock include cattle, bison, goats and sheep, among others, that are maintained for commercial use and located in a county where qualifying drought conditions occur.
Producers must report their losses within 30 days of the loss.
The USDA has set up an online tool to help ranchers document and estimate payments to cover feed and livestock transportation costs caused by drought.
The Texas Farm Bureau explains that producers must have risk in both eligible livestock and eligible grazing land in an eligible county to qualify for ELAP assistance.
The deadline to request all ELAP assistance for 2022 calendar year losses will be Jan. 31, 2023.
More from 3News on KIIITV.com:
- 'This is inexcusable': Reward increases for information related to endangered green sea turtle killed with a spear gun
- 'Texas children are suffering': Calallen ISD board asks TEA to prioritize mental health over standardized testing
- Starting Monday, violating Corpus Christi's water restrictions can land you a $500 fine
- TxDOT suspends part of developer's work on new Harbor Bridge
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If you do not have a photo/video to submit, just click "OK" to skip that prompt. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-ranchers-usda-drought-assistance/503-034f4d22-9d93-45b6-aef4-e7033a45e591 | 2022-07-21T18:38:35 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-ranchers-usda-drought-assistance/503-034f4d22-9d93-45b6-aef4-e7033a45e591 |
A man was arrested by Forney police this week after being accused of possession of child pornography, police say.
Christopher Layton, 39, was arrested Wednesday without incident, police said, though officials did not release any details about what led to the investigation.
Investigators said Layton was transported to the Forney Jail where he was charged with two counts of third-degree felony possession of child pornography. Following his arrest, detectives said they searched his home on the 500 block of Wyler Drive.
Forney Police said no bond has been set and further charges could be filed.
Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Forney Police at 972-564-7600 or by emailing CID@forneytx.gov. Anonymous tips can also be left with Kaufman County Crime Stoppers at 877-847-7522. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/forney-man-arrested-accused-of-possession-of-child-pornography/3020491/ | 2022-07-21T18:39:39 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/forney-man-arrested-accused-of-possession-of-child-pornography/3020491/ |
A Rockland County, NY resident has tested positive for polio, the state said Thursday, in what could be one of the first U.S. cases of the once-dreaded childhood disease in decades.
New York state health officials said the person with polio appears to have been infected by someone who received the oral polio vaccine (OPV), which hasn't been given in the United States since 2000.
"This suggests that the virus may have originated in a location outside of the U.S. where OPV is administered, since revertant strains cannot emerge from inactivated vaccines," the New York State Dept. of Health said in a statement.
According to the CDC, the last case of polio in the United States to originate here was in 1979. The last case brought by a traveler was in 1993.
Rockland County health officials said they learned of the infection Monday, and that the victim is an unvaccinated young adult who presented with symptoms of paralysis about a month ago and has not traveled internationally. They are conducting surveillance of family and close contacts.
"In this case, we don't know the actual source of the contraction," County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert said at a news conference.
The county will hold a polio vaccination clinic Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Pomona Health Complex at 50 Sanatorium Road in Pomona, and again there on Monday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Click here to pre-register.)
Local
The CDC generally recommends children get four doses of the vaccine - at two months, four months, between six and 18 months and between four and six years of age.
"Most adults do not need polio vaccine because they were already vaccinated as children," the CDC says - except for those traveling to high-risk countries, lab workers handling the virus or healthcare workers treating those who may have the virus.
Polio Symptoms
The virus that causes polio is considered very contagious, and people can spread it even if not sick. People are thought to be contagious for up to two weeks after symptoms develop.
The health department describes the symptoms this way:
"Symptoms, which can be mild and flu-like (fatigue, fever, headache, stiffness, muscle pain, vomiting), can take up to 30 days to appear, during which time an infected individual can be shedding virus to others. Though rare, some polio cases can result in paralysis or death."
Before the vaccines, polio paralyzed more than 15,000 people a year in the United States alone.
The World Health Organization says two of the three known strains of wild poliovirus are considered globally eradicated, while the third type continues to primarily affect Pakistan and Afghanistan. In the Rockland County case, the infection comes from a mutated oral vaccine strain rather than a wild type of the virus. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/polio-found-in-rockland-county-possibly-first-u-s-case-in-decades/3784589/ | 2022-07-21T18:40:28 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/polio-found-in-rockland-county-possibly-first-u-s-case-in-decades/3784589/ |
After two years of hosting livestreamed events amid the pandemic, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass announced it will hold its popular San Francisco festival in person again.
“We are thrilled to return to Golden Gate Park,” reads a message on its website.
The free outdoor concert series is scheduled for Sept. 30 to Oct. 2, and the first round of artists is slated to be announced Tuesday, July 26, through “music medleys,” or snippets of audio that will clue fans in to who will be appearing on the lineup, organizers said. The public is encouraged to download the festival’s app for more information, which currently shows a list of 10 question marks where musicians will be unveiled.
“We are once again revealing confirmed artists through music medleys over the next couple months,” a message in the app said. “We’ll give you a couple days to guess the artists before confirming their names. Challenge yourself not to cheat with Shazam/Soundcloud/etc!”
Founded by Warren Hellman in 2001, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass attracts approximately half a million visitors to the park each year. Headliners in 2019 included Robert Plant, 1990s alt rock band the Meat Puppets, Oakland R&B musician Fantastic Negrito and singer-songwriter Adia Victoria. Other memorable acts to grace the festival stages over the years include the late country-folk star John Prine, country legend Willie Nelson, ’80s pop icon Cyndi Lauper, whose performance included a slew of Patsy Cline covers, early Steve Miller collaborator Boz Scaggs, duo Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile and Irish American punk band Flogging Molly.
To stay connected with fans during its hiatus, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass created HSBTV, an online platform showcasing artists from Buddy Miller and Emmylou Harris to Shakey Graves, with interviews and live sets recorded from each musician’s hometown in “Let the Music Play On.” The festival also raised more than $4 million in pandemic relief efforts for “music & arts communities in the Bay Area and across the country,” its website said.
This article will be updated with more information on the lineup as it is announced. | https://www.sfgate.com/local/article/hardly-strictly-returns-to-park-17320059.php | 2022-07-21T18:44:09 | 1 | https://www.sfgate.com/local/article/hardly-strictly-returns-to-park-17320059.php |
A crash between a motorcycle and a car on Highway P near Highway 50 left the motorcyclist with minor leg injuries Wednesday afternoon according the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department.
Sgt. David Wright said the incident occurred at 4:27 p.m. The motorcyclist, a 65-year-old male, was transported to a Burlington hospital, Wright said. No information on the cause of the crash or what citations had been issued was available as of Thursday afternoon.
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Don't have an account? Sign Up Today | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/hwy-p-motorcycle-vs-car-crash-leaves-man-with-minor-leg-injuries/article_b1a0a612-0911-11ed-947d-b300affb4bda.html | 2022-07-21T18:46:25 | 0 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/hwy-p-motorcycle-vs-car-crash-leaves-man-with-minor-leg-injuries/article_b1a0a612-0911-11ed-947d-b300affb4bda.html |
The Pleasant Prairie Fire Department responded to an elevator entrapment at the Holiday inn Express & Suites Wednesday afternoon after a power outage trapped several guests said Assistant Fire Chief Dave Wilkinson.
Firefighters manually opened the elevator doors and helped the guests exit. No injuries or illnesses were reported.
The power outage occurred at 10:56 a.m. and continued until 1:45 p.m. Wilkinson said they received several false alarms after the power went out and after it returned.
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Don't have an account? Sign Up Today | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/pleasant-prairie-power-outage-causes-elevator-entrapment/article_4f18a4dc-0910-11ed-b816-a70525a8e7c0.html | 2022-07-21T18:46:32 | 1 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/pleasant-prairie-power-outage-causes-elevator-entrapment/article_4f18a4dc-0910-11ed-b816-a70525a8e7c0.html |
MOUNT JOY, Pa. — A new single-family house built by students at the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center was sold recently in Mount Joy, the school said in a press release.
The house, which took several years to complete due to the COVID-19 outbreak, sold on July 15 for $415,000, LCCTC said.
It was a group project completed by students in the senior Construction, Painting and Interior Finishes, Carpentry, Electrical, Cabinetry, Plumbing, HVAC, Architectural CAD and Heavy Equipment Operating programs, according to LCCTC.
The three bedroom, two and a half bath, single-family home is located on a 2,000 sq. ft. subdivision of the LCCTC Mount Joy campus.
The house is entirely built and constructed by the students, with subcontractors only stepping in to handle a few aspects such as laying the foundation and insulation, LCCTC said.
LCCTC has had students building houses for decades. In the future, the school plans to continue subdividing the surrounding land and have two houses under construction each year -- one that students are finishing and one that students are just starting.
This allows students to experience the entire process of building a house from start to finish, LCCTC said.
Richard Martin, LCCTC’s Construction Coordinator, manages the project. He’s in his sixth year at at the school and worked as a homebuilder prior to joining the organization.
Martin takes care of organizing the plans, specifications, purchasing materials and scheduling subcontractors. His work in the background allows the instructors to have more time with students which ensures that students receive more hands-on experience.
“This project is the highlight of their year," Martin said of his students. "These kids are here because they want to be working with their hands; that’s what they’re excited about and this project gives them that opportunity."
Martin also noted that the project benefits the community by supporting the industries that LCCTC is preparing students for.
“A strong industry means more available jobs for individuals within the community," he said. "We’re making sure students are leaving here with skills that employers are looking for.” | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/lancaster-county/house-construction-lcctc-students-lancaster-county/521-c41b5748-15ff-4407-b09b-b6a188fdae4e | 2022-07-21T18:50:21 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/lancaster-county/house-construction-lcctc-students-lancaster-county/521-c41b5748-15ff-4407-b09b-b6a188fdae4e |
Thursday morning earthquake shakes Carlsbad
An earthquake occurring near the New Mexico-Texas border shook Carlsbad Thursday morning as the region saw a recent uptick in seismicity researchers tied to growing oil and gas operations.
A magnitude(M) 4.7 quake was reported at about 7:35 a.m. about 35 miles south of Whites City, per the U.S. Geological Survey.
It was followed by an M 3.0 reported at about 8:40 a.m. At 12:43 a.m. Thursday an M 3.1 earthquake was recorded as well.
On Wednesday night three more were felt in the area: two M 3 quakes reported at 11:35 p.m. and at 11:48 p.m., records show.
More:Oil and gas operations blamed for earthquakes in Permian Basin. New Mexico takes action
M 4 or higher earthquakes produce shaking that can be felt on the surface, and can damage structures, per the Richter Scale, while quakes of about M 3 can be felt but rarely cause any damage.
Earthquakes at less than M 2 are rarely felt.
Serious damage can be caused when seismic events reach M 5, such as the largest earthquake recorded in the region in 2020: a quake registering as M 5 near Mentone, Texas.
Between Texas and New Mexico, this year there were 1,017 earthquakes of M 2 or higher reported this, records show, and 11 of M 4 or higher.
More:ExxonMobil fined $2 million for wastewater wells tied to earthquakes in New Mexico
Last year, there were 1,488 M2 or higher earthquakes and 13 quakes at M 4 or higher in the region, per the USGS.
That marked an about 472 percent increase from 2020’s total of 260 earthquakes at M 2 or higher, which followed 63 such quakes reported in 2019.
The increase in seismicity in the region was attributed by recent research to expanded oil and gas operations, chiefly wastewater injection that sees water produced during the hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, process reinjected back underground. The reinjection was believed to increase geologic pressure and result in seismic events.
More:'The time is now': New Mexico taking action on oil and gas-induced earthquakes
In response, oil and gas regulators in New Mexico and Texas imposed restrictions in the last year aiming to reduce disposal injection volumes in areas where induced seismicity climbed.
New Mexico’s Oil Conservation Division implemented rules last year reducing injection volumes or shutting wells based on their proximity to quakes in New Mexico of increasing magnitude.
If there are two M 2.5 quakes within a 10-mile radius, well operators are required to increase volume reporting to weekly from monthly.
If an M 3 occurs, all wells within a radius of up to 3 miles must reduce injection volumes by 50 percent, and all wells between 3 and 6 miles away must cut injections by 25 percent.
More:New Mexico investigates earthquakes induced by oil and gas as Texas cracks down on injection
After an M 3.5 is reported, wells within 3 miles must be shut in and volumes are reduced for those up to 6 miles away.
The Texas Railroad Commission declared three seismic response areas (SRAs) this and last year where increased seismicity was known to occur.
The first was in the Midland-Odessa area on the eastern side of the Permian, declared last year, with another along the border to New Mexico in Culberson and Reeves counties.
More:No damage from earthquakes that shook Eddy County Wednesday morning
Another SRA near Stanton, Texas was established this year.
Quakes in all three areas were tied to wastewater injection, the Railroad Commission said, and entailed reductions in disposal volumes.
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter. | https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/thursday-morning-earthquake-shakes-carlsbad/65379104007/ | 2022-07-21T18:50:29 | 0 | https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/07/21/thursday-morning-earthquake-shakes-carlsbad/65379104007/ |
Lee esta historia en español aquí.
Recently released surveillance video shows the moments a man pulled up to a Philadelphia home and set it on fire before driving off.
The man stopped in the middle of the road on the 4900 block of Wellington Street, got out of his car and flung what the Philadelphia Police Department said were two incendiary devices at the property, the latter of which caused it to catch fire.
The incident happened around 3:51 a.m. on June 30 in the Tacony neighborhood, the PPD said.
The video shows the man calmly get into his silver sedan and drive off as flames light up the porch of the house. Police did not say if anyone was injured.
The man was wearing a white t-shirt and sneakers and black shorts. The PPD said he was last seen driving east on Wellington Avenue, then south on State Road.
The man is wanted for arson. The PPD asked that anyone who sees him call 911 immediately. People can also submit tips by calling or texting 215-686-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips can also be submitted online. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/watch-man-pulls-up-to-home-sets-it-on-fire/3306619/ | 2022-07-21T18:51:05 | 1 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/watch-man-pulls-up-to-home-sets-it-on-fire/3306619/ |
Infrastructure law funds Superfund cleanups, but not uranium mines on Indigenous lands
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will dole out $3.5 billion to clean up the most hazardous contaminated sites in the country, but so far, no Arizona sites are set to receive funding.
And some of the most polluted locations in the state, the hundreds of abandoned uranium mines on Indigenous lands, are likely ineligible for the money.
The funding comes from the bipartisan infrastructure law, which passed last November and is considered the Biden administration’s top legislative achievement.
The first round of money will allocate $1 billion to clear the backlog of so-called orphaned sites on the National Priorities List. That list, part of the Superfund program, includes what the U.S. government considers the most contaminated sites in the country. The sites are nicknamed orphans because they haven't received any money for cleanup yet.
The orphaned list includes 49 sites, but only one is in the EPA’s Region 9, which covers most of the southwestern United States. Eighteen sites on the list are in Regions 1, 2 and 3, which cover the northeastern United States. Arizona doesn’t have any orphaned sites.
The second round of funding will spend the remaining $2.5 billion on accelerating cleanups at other sites on the National Priorities List. The EPA hasn’t released a list of which sites will receive funding from that pot of money yet.
In an email to The Republic, a spokesperson for EPA’s Region 9 said: “Due to how the process is structured, it is impossible to predict how the next $2.5 billion will be spent.”
Arizona has 9 sites included in the National Priorities List, including a site in Phoenix where the former electronics manufacturer Motorola released TCE and other chemicals into the groundwater, and the Tucson International Airport, where a number of activities contaminated the groundwater and soil with TCE.
Regulations exclude uranium sites
The hundreds of abandoned uranium mines on Indigenous lands, where residents have been waiting for the government to act for decades, will likely receive no funding from the Infrastructure bill because none are included on the National Priorities List.
Long-time environmental justice advocates have lobbied for more sites to be included on the list, specifically the abandoned uranium mines. They note the limitations of its selection process, which considers population density and thus leaves out rural Indigenous communities most often affected by uranium radiation.
The EPA said on its website that it chooses sites for the National Priorities List mostly based on its Hazard Ranking System score, which takes into account factors like the toxicity and quantity of the waste and people or sensitive environments affected by the waste’s release.
"EPA is currently evaluating sites in Arizona for future inclusion on the Superfund: National Priorities List (NPL)," a spokesperson for the EPA's Region 9 wrote in an email to The Republic. "Some sites in rural areas do not score high enough on the Hazard Ranking System for inclusion on the NPL because low human population nearby necessitates higher quantity and toxicity of wastes than in higher-population areas."
But even if a site has a high hazard score, it doesn’t guarantee immediate funding or even a spot on the National Priorities List. Some sites may have high scores, but wouldn't qualify for the list, depending on other factors.
The Navajo Nation and other tribes in Arizona have battled for decades to rid their lands of toxic waste from abandoned uranium mines. The U.S. government obtained much of its uranium from tribal lands during the Cold War.
Since then, none of over 500 abandoned uranium mines in Navajo Nation has been fully cleaned up. The EPA said questions about paying for the cleanup, as well as arguments over where to store the radioactive waste, have been major obstacles.
Toxic groundwater lies beneath Phoenix:A cleanup has been delayed for years
Activists say the government should pay
The U.S. government has maintained that taxpayers shouldn’t bear the burden of paying for cleanup of abandoned mine sites on tribal lands. Instead, negligent companies who left without cleaning up after themselves, or “potentially responsible parties,” should pay.
The government has secured nearly $1 billion in funding cleanup efforts on the Navajo Nation by suing companies that didn't properly clean up their uranium mines, according to the EPA Region 9 spokesperson.
In one settlement, the EPA recovered almost $1 billion to address over 50 mines for which they say Kerr McGee Corporation and its successor, Tronox, bear responsibility. The Navajo Nation received more than $40 million from that settlement.
Indigenous peoples have expressed frustration at the delayed cleanup process. Inhaling and ingesting uranium can cause cancers and kidney disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control. One study from 2000 found that Navajo uranium miners had a lung cancer rate nearly 29 times that of Navajos who did not work in the mines. Research from the CDC shows uranium in babies born today.
A long-lasting issue:Abandoned uranium mines continue to haunt Navajos on reservation
Some Navajo leaders and advocates believe that securing cleanup funds through lawsuits has delayed the cleanup process, particularly since the mining occurred decades ago and it’s difficult to pinpoint a potentially responsible party.
Activists have urged the government to pay instead, arguing the government was the sole customer of uranium mining from 1944-1971 and changed permitting to make it easier to mine uranium on tribal lands.
“This extreme devastation of the environment, which is essentially permanent in terms of radioactive pollution, is contingent upon the outcomes of court settlements,” said Klee Benally, a Diné who has spent years advocating for cleanup of abandoned uranium mines. “Not because the government is directing resources to clean up the mess that they made, or the messes that they permitted.”
Zayna Syed is an environmental reporter for The Arizona Republic/azcentral. Follow her reporting on Twitter at @zaynasyed_ and send tips or other information about stories to zayna.syed@arizonarepublic.com.
Environmental coverage on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Follow The Republic environmental reporting team at environment.azcentral.com and @azcenvironment on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2022/07/21/superfund-money-wont-help-navajo-uranium-mine-sites/10112951002/ | 2022-07-21T18:53:08 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2022/07/21/superfund-money-wont-help-navajo-uranium-mine-sites/10112951002/ |
Moscow says US must respect Russian law in Brittney Griner case
MOSCOW — The spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry lashed out Thursday at the United States characterizing basketball star Brittney Griner’s jailing on drug charges as “wrongful detention,” saying it shows disrespect for Russian law.
Griner has been jailed since she was arrested in mid-February at a Moscow airport after vape canisters containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. The Phoenix Mercury standout and two-time Olympic gold medalist acknowledged in court this month that she had the canisters, but said she had no intent to break the law.
She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Her trial is scheduled to resume Tuesday.
Why did Brittney Griner plead guilty? What to know and what's next in her Russian trial
The State Department in May designated Griner as wrongfully detained, moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs - effectively, the government’s chief hostage negotiator.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Thursday that the legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational use in parts of the U.S. has no bearing on what happens in Russia.
Read more: Brittney Griner's lawyer: WNBA star had doctor’s note for cannabis use
“If a U.S. citizen was taken in connection with the fact that she was smuggling drugs, and she does not deny this, then this should be commensurate with our Russian, local laws, and not with those adopted in San Francisco, New York and Washington,” Zakharova said.
“You understand, if drugs are legalized in the United States, in a number of states, and this is done for a long time, and now the whole country will become drug-addicted, this does not mean that all other countries are following the same path,” she added.
Russian media have persistently speculated that Griner could be exchanged for prominent Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, who is imprisoned in the United States, and that Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia for espionage, may also figure in an exchange.
'Bring BG home': Athletes call for Brittney Griner's release at ESPY Awards
U.S. officials have not commented on the prospects for such a trade. Russian officials have said no exchange could be discussed until the conclusion of the legal proceedings against Griner. It is unclear how long the trial will last, but a court has authorized Griner’s detention until Dec. 20. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2022/07/21/brittney-griner-moscow-says-us-must-respect-russian-law/10117444002/ | 2022-07-21T18:53:09 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2022/07/21/brittney-griner-moscow-says-us-must-respect-russian-law/10117444002/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Frisco’s Complexity Gaming alongside Lenovo has announced some gaming summer camps that will be held in North Texas in order to give the Dallas-Fort Worth community an inside look at possible careers in the gaming space.
The two will be hosting a pair of camps in the summer with topics from content creation to the high-stakes world of competitive gaming.
“The Dallas-Fort Worth area has a strong gaming culture, and that lifelong passion is often discovered at an early age,” said Jason Lake, Founder & CEO, Complexity Gaming, and Global Head of Esports, GameSquare Esports. “With Lenovo, we’re able to proactively highlight social and educational opportunities in gaming for those new to the space, as well as have a hand in helping local youth take their ideas to the next level.”
On July 25, the two will kick off two week-long camps to share insight on esports, creating content, and mixing in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math). These camps will be available to girls and underserved children to help an initiative in increasing, “…accessibility and diversity of gaming – and covered free-of-cost by Lenovo. Each camp will also reinforce smart, safe habits online and educate kids on the importance of anti-toxicity and inclusivity. At the conclusion of each program, campers will have a capstone project of their work to show their friends and family.”
2022 Complexity Gaming – Lenovo Summer Camps:
- July 25-29: Digital Creators: Esports – It takes a lot to make it to the esports stage. Campers will learn not only the gameplay skills required to get there, but also effective strategies for building their digital profiles and contents. (open to girls ages 12-15)
- August 1-5: STEAM Party – In this program, campers will learn how design, coding, engineering and more intersect to create exciting projects using robots, LEGO, snap circuits and more. (open to youth ages 6-9; eligibility based on income)
For more information including a full scope of what campers will learn about, esports, STEAM Camp and more, click here. | https://cw33.com/news/local/friscos-complexity-gaming-to-hold-summer-camps-for-dfw-area-kids/ | 2022-07-21T18:58:01 | 0 | https://cw33.com/news/local/friscos-complexity-gaming-to-hold-summer-camps-for-dfw-area-kids/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — You’ve probably seen the influx of new faces in North Texas. More people from across the nation are moving to Texas in search of a better life, one where they can start their businesses and maybe even raise a family.
A new poll from Crosswind Media & Public Relations says a majority of Americans who live outside of the Lone Star State believe that Texas is a good place to start a business and raise a family.
Officials talked to 845 American adults who don’t live in Texas and asked them their views on the state.
Their answers showed:
- 27% of Americans who were polled said they have a very positive outlook on Texas
- 18% of people polled said they have a somewhat positive view on Texas
- 14% of people said they have a somewhat negative view on Texas
- 17% of people polled said they held a very negative view on Texas
- 21% of people polled said they had a neutral view on Texas
53% of Americans polled said they thought Texas was a good place to start a business, while 52% of people said they thought Texas was a good place to raise a family.
“Overall, the state of the Texas brand continues to be strong and durable,” Crosswind President and CEO Thomas Graham said in a news release, “with Americans continuing to view Texas favorably and recognizing the Texas business climate and family values as favorable traits.”
For the full report, click here. | https://cw33.com/news/local/new-poll-says-most-americans-agree-that-texas-is-a-good-place-to-start-a-business-raise-a-family/ | 2022-07-21T18:58:08 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/new-poll-says-most-americans-agree-that-texas-is-a-good-place-to-start-a-business-raise-a-family/ |
DALLAS (KDAF) — The Lone Star State is earning national accolades once again, this time it’s the Texas State Railroad that is in the spotlight.
Tripadvisor has awarded the railroad a Travelers’ Choice 2022 Award. According to their website, Travelers’ Choice awards are given to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
“We are honored to be recognized as a 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Winner,” Amy Parady, Director of Business Development for the TSR, said in a news release. “Our guests are our number one priority! Many guests come to experience a vintage train ride as it is a unique outing; however, we strongly believe they will return because of our customer service. Our team is firmly committed to providing the best experience possible.”
For more about the Texas State Railroad, visit Tripadvisor. | https://cw33.com/news/local/tripadvisor-awards-texas-state-railroad-a-travelers-choice-award/ | 2022-07-21T18:58:16 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/local/tripadvisor-awards-texas-state-railroad-a-travelers-choice-award/ |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Cancelled and delayed flights are a global travel issue right now, but the impact on Sacramento International Airport has been minimal.
According to the Sacramento County Airport System, the number of people flying in and out of Sacramento International Airport is up 62.3% in 2022 compared to 2021. The report tracks flights from the start of the year up until the month of May.
But, the Department of Transportation released a report in July citing 80.2% of flights are arriving on time while 81.7% of flights are departing on time. The data includes flights through the month of May.
Michael Pacheco is gearing up for a multiple weeklong European vacation.
“I’m concerned enough to buy insurance, yeah, so we bought insurance just in case that happens,” said Pacheco.
Megan Brickell flew in from Seattle for a visit.
“If you booked a nonstop flight and maybe missed your flight, there wasn’t another nonstop flight anytime soon. You would probably have to get on a stop or two flight,” said Brickell.
Airport officials say they haven’t seen anything out of the ordinary at Sacramento International Airport.
They projected 125,000 passengers would travel 4th of July weekend and the numbers came in a little bit lower.
With the delays and cancellations, Sacramento International Airport is trying to reduce the stress it can cause passengers.
In July, the airport has launched the Boarding Area Relaxation Corps (BARC) for passengers.
They are friendly, furry faces wearing vests saying 'pet me,' to help people relax. The program hasn’t been in the airport for 18 months due to the pandemic.
Now, there are 27 teams traveling through both terminals.
Volunteers with the program like Shelia Bose say it's time to be back because they’ve seen passenger stress return to pre-pandemic levels.
“People are sitting up there for hours sometimes waiting for their next flight. They don’t know necessarily if it’s going to go out that day and may miss connections -- that’s the other problem for them -- so there’s a lot of different reasons to be stressed up there,” said Bose.
The program has been at the airport since 2015. They roam the terminals on Mondays, Wednesdays, and the first and third Fridays of the month.
Watch More: Why don't the second set of signs at the Sacramento International Airport say Terminal A or B? | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/flight-delays-sacramento/103-c2ec7fe3-f0c4-4597-aff0-f68f52883397 | 2022-07-21T19:01:32 | 0 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/flight-delays-sacramento/103-c2ec7fe3-f0c4-4597-aff0-f68f52883397 |
At 6 p.m. on Friday, July 29, the North Bend Public Library will close the book on the summer reading program with a campfire singalong at Simpson Park. The campfire will be located near the playground at the southern end of the park.
Local musician and singalong enthusiast Gail Elber will lead attendees in songs from the book Rise Up Singing, a compilation of over one thousand songs. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own copies, and there will be copies available to share. An assistant with a clipboard will write down requested songs and page numbers. | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/nbpl-campfire-singalong-at-simpson-park/article_c4c16e56-06c4-11ed-9ecf-afd929786a07.html | 2022-07-21T19:10:16 | 0 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/nbpl-campfire-singalong-at-simpson-park/article_c4c16e56-06c4-11ed-9ecf-afd929786a07.html |
November 10, 1957 – July 17, 2022
Kris was born November 10, 1957 in Harbor City, California, named after his uncle Kristi who was killed in the war. He passed away July 17, 2022 in Coos Bay.
Kris graduated from North Bend High School in 1976 and was awarded the Bryant Cup for outstanding athlete. He enjoyed hunting for upland game birds in Eastern Oregon with his dad, brother and friends. Kris was a longshoreman for Local 12 for many years. He loved his dogs, Molly and Cindy.
He is survived by his mother, Donna; brother, Nick; sister, Karen Knox and husband, Scott; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Alex.
He was always loved by his family.
No services will be held but in memory of Kris, donations can be made to the Kohl’s Cat, 1431 Southwest Boulevard, Coos Bay, OR 97420.
Arrangements are under the care of North Bend Chapel, 541-756-0440. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.coosbayareafunerals.com | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/obituaries/kristi-kris-alex-palica/article_497e5cd2-091b-11ed-9ebf-a32c479fac6a.html | 2022-07-21T19:10:50 | 0 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/obituaries/kristi-kris-alex-palica/article_497e5cd2-091b-11ed-9ebf-a32c479fac6a.html |
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — An April fire that killed four children when it swept a mobile home in northeastern Indiana began in or near a recliner, but investigators have been unable to determine what sparked the blaze, a coroner's office said.
The Allen County Coroner’s Office said Wednesday that a report from the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office found that the amount of fire damage the Fort Wayne mobile home sustained made it impossible to prove a definitive cause “to an acceptable level of certainty.”
Because of that uncertainty, the coroner’s office said the manner of the deaths of the four children had therefore been ruled as “undetermined.”
NOTE: The above video is from a previous report on the children being identified.
The coroner's office had previously ruled that smoke inhalation and thermal burns caused the April 21 deaths of Matthew Damron, 10; Johnnie Mann-Goff, 5; Jefferson Goff, 3; and Rosalynn Goff, 2.
Four adults, including the children's mother, were hospitalized after escaping the fire, which the state fire marshal's report said investigators believe began “in or around the area of a recliner” in the mobile home.
The mobile home was destroyed, with heavy fire, water and smoke damage, the report said.
Firefighters brought the fire under control in about 20 minutes, at which time they entered the home and found the children’s bodies.
Fort Wayne is located about 120 miles northeast of Indianapolis. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indiana/coroner-cause-of-indiana-fire-that-killed-4-kids-unknown-mobile-home-allen-county-damron-mann-goff/531-1f34609b-9ab8-4ab4-b427-e68efca718c1 | 2022-07-21T19:13:30 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indiana/coroner-cause-of-indiana-fire-that-killed-4-kids-unknown-mobile-home-allen-county-damron-mann-goff/531-1f34609b-9ab8-4ab4-b427-e68efca718c1 |
ORLANDO, Fla. – La Maschera is Downtown Arts District’s largest annual fundraiser in Orlando and this year, the theme is based on the popular Netflix show, “Bridgerton.”
To celebrate its 16th year, guests will enter the world of Bridgerton at the City Arts with modernized, Regency-era theming and costumes to celebrate the arts and artists, according to the organization.
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It will be held from 7 p.m.-11 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24 at the City Arts building located at 39 S Magnolia Ave. in Orlando.
The celebration will offer galleries with themes based on locations in the show and will house immersive experiences, according to the organizer.
The event will also have live music by Violectric, dancing, interactive character entertainment, photo ops, specialized cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and more.
Tickets are $150 and the attire is modern regency era.
The event is for those ages 21 and older.
To purchase tickets and for more information, click here.
Check out every episode of Riff On This in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/are-you-the-diamond-of-the-season-city-arts-hosting-the-bridgerton-ball-in-orlando/ | 2022-07-21T19:13:44 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/are-you-the-diamond-of-the-season-city-arts-hosting-the-bridgerton-ball-in-orlando/ |
SANFORD, Fla. – A Sanford officer at the center of a criminal and domestic violence investigation was placed on administrative leave Thursday, police said.
The Casselberry Police Department notified Sanford police about the domestic violence investigation involving William Hamlin.
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Hamlin was then immediately put on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal and administrative investigations, according to police.
“We will investigate every aspect of the incident and allegation,” Chief Cecil E. Smith said in a statement. “We ask for patience as we work through this process as we make every effort to be thorough and transparent with the outcome.”
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/sanford-officer-at-center-of-domestic-violence-investigation-placed-on-administrative-leave-police-say/ | 2022-07-21T19:13:51 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/sanford-officer-at-center-of-domestic-violence-investigation-placed-on-administrative-leave-police-say/ |
WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. – The Winter Springs Performing Arts Center is preparing for its rendition of the Broadway Disney musical “Newsies” this August.
“Newsies” — based on a 1992 film of the same name and inspired by the 1899 strike by a coalition of newsboys — follows 17-year-old Jack Kelly as he navigates the pitfalls of being a newsboy at the turn of the 20th century.
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The center is set to perform the musical Aug. 4-7 with matinee and evening showtimes. Tickets are $16 per person and can be purchased on the theatre’s website.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit the theatre’s website here.
Check out every episode of Riff On This in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/winter-springs-performing-arts-center-set-for-disney-musical-newsies/ | 2022-07-21T19:13:57 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/07/21/winter-springs-performing-arts-center-set-for-disney-musical-newsies/ |
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — A crash in the westbound lanes of I-26 near the Gray exit on Wednesday killed a man, according to the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD).
A 2007 Toyota Camry ran off the roadway and into a ditch, ejecting the driver as it flipped several times. Police responded to the scene at 12:44 p.m. Original reports indicated that the crash caused injuries.
A news release Thursday identified the driver as Gary E. Franklin of Fall Branch. Responders transported him to the Johnson City Medical Center, where medical staff pronounced him dead. No other passengers were mentioned in the release.
The JCPD’s Traffic Crash Reconstruction Team continues to investigate the incident. Officials stated the driver had not been wearing a seatbelt. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/jcpd-man-died-in-i-26-crash-near-gray-exit/ | 2022-07-21T19:14:17 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/jcpd-man-died-in-i-26-crash-near-gray-exit/ |
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Editor's note: The video above is about parents' concerns coming into the 2022-23 school year.
Students have less than two weeks until they return to school in Gwinnett County, and the district said they are prepared with a few new safety initiatives.
“As a school district, we have a responsibility to ensure that each and every one of our students maximize their potential, and that means making sure our schools are safe, secure and successful,” Dr. Al Taylor said, GCPS Chief of Schools.
Changes for visitors
The biggest change is meant to strengthen their visitor management process. According to the district, this year, visitors will have their identification screened against the National Sex Offender Registry through their Raptor system.
All visitors must show a US government-issued ID when entering the school. The district said to enter the school during school hours, visitors must use the doors near the office, "which are locked until the visitor is granted access."
Once visitors are checked through the system, they will be given a badge to wear that says their name, date, and reason for visiting.
Those dropping off items in the office or picking up paperwork won't be given a badge, according to the district.
More School Resource Officers
The school district also hired 98 new school resource officers with plans to make more hires.
"We will begin the 2022-23 school year with 98 certified, sworn law enforcement officers with plans to hire more this school year," Taylor said. "These dedicated men and women provide on-site support for our students, staff, and community."
The SROs are all over the district, "two SROs at every high school, one SRO at every middle school, and several are located at elementary schools," Gwinnett County said.
School Resource Officers in Gwinnett County serve their home school and other school facilities around them. The district said SROs work to educate students and staff on safety issues and implement/update safety plans.
Anonymous Tip Line
Call or text the Gwinnett County Public Schools tip line at 770-822-6513 to report any information regarding school safety.
"If you think that someone is carrying a weapon, drugs, or alcohol on school property, or if you believe that you have been the target of violence or threat of violence or have witnessed violent or threatening conduct by another person, please call or text the tip line," the district said.
GCPS SchoolMessenger
This is the sixth year that Gwinnett County will use its SchoolMessenger system. It alerts parents of emergencies, closings and other information regarding safety and attendance for students.
To subscribe to the system, the district said to text “SUBSCRIBE” to the number 67587. If you've already subscribed in a previous year, there's no reason to do so again.
GCPS said parents should verify their contact information is correct at the beginning of the year since that's what's used for "emergency and non-emergency notifications by phone, email and text using SchoolMessenger."
Messages will come from 1-844-248-6644; the district encourages parents and guardians to save this number to their contacts.
Emergency Management Plan 2022-23
The Gwinnett County Office approved the emergency plan for the upcoming school year of Emergency Management. The district said plans for each district building were reviewed by school and district leaders.
"We believe that a balanced combination of proactive and responsive safety measures such as these help us provide a supportive and safe environment while focused on our core business, teaching and learning," Taylor said.
These plans ensure a quick response by public safety partners if a crisis ever occurs. GCPS said they have a reunification plan to evacuate "students can be evacuated to a safe place where they can reunite with their families." | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/gwinnett-county-public-schools-safety/85-c6bf232f-3d4c-4cac-93ed-2f5d0d655f8c | 2022-07-21T19:14:50 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/gwinnett-county-public-schools-safety/85-c6bf232f-3d4c-4cac-93ed-2f5d0d655f8c |
SAN ANTONIO — Efforts to keep his CPS Energy bill low is leaving one southside man to wonder why his payments are on the rise.
Jess Torres showed KENS 5 his last three bills and said he is paying more than he use to power his one bedroom home of seven years.
Torres said he is very conservative of his energy use inside his home by unplugging appliances and leaving his thermostat at a warm temperature of 84 degrees.
Torres said he usually spends about $70 a month on his CPS Energy bill. His July bill is $225.93, which is up $74.36 from June's bill and up $131.97 from May's bill.
"I'm just worried for next month's bill," he said.
A spokesperson for CPS Energy said summer is a common time for bill spikes. Especially this year as we have seen numerous days of record breaking heat in Texas. High temperatures affect how AC systems operate often making units work harder to cool living spaces. This drives bills up.
The war in Europe is also having an impact on natural gas prices.
Torres said his sister has paid some of his recent bills to help him get by. However, CPS Energy can provide financial assistance. They have several links on their website.
To date, CPS Energy said they have connected customers with over $60 million dollars in assistance since June 2020.
Torres said he would consider looking into their resources if the bill's don't improve. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/texas/san-antonio-southside-man-cps-energy-bills-rising-conserving-energy-home/273-04669c1e-b467-4640-b705-28c2050ae5e8 | 2022-07-21T19:15:16 | 0 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/texas/san-antonio-southside-man-cps-energy-bills-rising-conserving-energy-home/273-04669c1e-b467-4640-b705-28c2050ae5e8 |
TEXAS, USA — Editor's Note: The above video is from a previous report on South Texas drought conditions affecting ranchers.
The Texas Farm Bureau wants to remind farmers that they may be eligible for drought assistance from the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA).
The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) program helps Texas farmers with the following:
- the transportation of water to livestock;
- the above normal cost of mileage for transporting feed to livestock;
- additional feed purchase; and
- the above normal cost of transporting livestock to forage/grazing acres.*
*Hauling livestock one-way, one haul per animal reimbursement and no payment for “empty miles.”
Eligible livestock include cattle, bison, goats and sheep, among others, that are maintained for commercial use and located in a county where qualifying drought conditions occur.
Producers must report their losses within 30 days of the loss.
The USDA has set up an online tool to help ranchers document and estimate payments to cover feed and livestock transportation costs caused by drought.
The Texas Farm Bureau explains that producers must have risk in both eligible livestock and eligible grazing land in an eligible county to qualify for ELAP assistance.
The deadline to request all ELAP assistance for 2022 calendar year losses will be Jan. 31, 2023.
More from 3News on KIIITV.com:
- 'This is inexcusable': Reward increases for information related to endangered green sea turtle killed with a spear gun
- 'Texas children are suffering': Calallen ISD board asks TEA to prioritize mental health over standardized testing
- Starting Monday, violating Corpus Christi's water restrictions can land you a $500 fine
- TxDOT suspends part of developer's work on new Harbor Bridge
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If you do not have a photo/video to submit, just click "OK" to skip that prompt. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-ranchers-usda-drought-assistance/503-034f4d22-9d93-45b6-aef4-e7033a45e591 | 2022-07-21T19:15:17 | 1 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-ranchers-usda-drought-assistance/503-034f4d22-9d93-45b6-aef4-e7033a45e591 |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/explosion-at-plano-home-damages-two-adjacent-properties/3020586/ | 2022-07-21T19:23:11 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/explosion-at-plano-home-damages-two-adjacent-properties/3020586/ |
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The latest news from around North Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/house-catches-fire-in-benbrook-thursday-morning/3020605/ | 2022-07-21T19:23:18 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/house-catches-fire-in-benbrook-thursday-morning/3020605/ |
BLOOMINGTON — A 37-year-old Bloomington man was sentenced this month in McLean County court to four years in prison for illegally delivering a gun in 2019.
Darrell Basham received his sentence July 7 after pleading guilty to a Class 3 felony charge of unlawful delivery of a firearm, court records stated.
Originally charged with eight felony counts of unlawful delivery of cocaine and four felony counts of unlawful sale of a firearm, Basham was arrested in April 2021. The 11 other felony charges were dropped.
The Pantagraph reported Basham was accused of delivering cocaine between January 2019 and January 2020. Additionally, he sold a DB380 handgun in June 2019 and a SKS rifle in October 2019 to a Normal police vice unit.
At the time of his sentence, Basham was credited for one year and 91 days already served in jail.
This morning's top headlines: Thursday, July 21
The House Jan. 6 committee aims to make the case in its final hearing Thursday night that Donald Trump’s lies about a stolen election fueled the grisly Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. The panel will delve into 187 minutes in which it says Trump did nothing to stop the violence but instead “gleefully” watched on television. The hearing will feature testimony from two former White House aides and will show outtakes of a Jan. 7 video that aides pleaded for Trump to make as a message of national healing for the country. The new footage will show how Trump struggled to condemn the mob of his supporters.
President Joe Biden plans to propose a steep funding increase for police, hoping to show that Democrats are serious about combating violent crime, despite the move potentially causing backlash from members of his party’s left flank. But a scheduled trip to Pennsylvania to ask Congress to spend $37 billion for fighting and preventing crime was canceled Thursday when Biden tested positive for COVID-19. His proposal is set to include $13 billion to help communities hire and train 100,000 police officers over five years. Biden was going to outline it during a visit to Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. until the White House announced he was experiencing “very mild symptoms” after testing positive.
The World Health Organization is convening its emergency committee to consider for the second time within weeks whether the expanding outbreak of monkeypox should be declared a global crisis. Some scientists say the striking differences between the outbreaks in Africa and in developed countries will complicate any coordinated response and possibly deepen existing inequities between the rich and poor. While African officials say they are already treating the continent's epidemic as an emergency, experts elsewhere say the mild version of monkeypox in Europe and North America makes an emergency declaration unnecessary. Yet while the United States, Britain, Canada and other countries have bought millions of vaccines, none have gone to Africa.
Eyewitnesses to the killings of 17 people by Florida school shooter Nikolas Cruz are giving heart-wrenching testimony at his penalty trial. A teacher on Wednesday recalled how her student correctly answered a question in her Holocaust studies class moments before gunshots penetrated the glass window of her classroom door. Nicholas Dworet and another student were killed and three of their classmates were wounded. She said all of them were brave. Cruz has pleaded guilty to killing 17 people and wounding another 17. The question before the jury is whether he should be executed or spend his life in prison.
Italy is headed for an early election after its president accepted Premier Mario Draghi’s resignation and decided there was no possibility for cobbling together another government. State TV said Cabinet ministers Thursday night set the balloting for Sept. 25. The demise of Draghi’s coalition and the uncertainty of what Italian voters will decide has dealt a destabilizing blow to the country and Europe amid rising inflation and Russia’s war in Ukraine. President Sergio Mattarella said he was resorting to early elections because the lack of support for Draghi also indicated there was no possibility of forming another government that could carry a majority of lawmakers.
Democrats have pushed legislation through the House that would inscribe the right to use contraceptives into law. It's Democrats' latest campaign-season response to concerns that a conservative Supreme Court that’s erased federal abortion rights could go further. House passage sends the measure to the Senate, where it seems likely to die. The push illustrates how Democrats are latching onto their own version of culture war battles to appeal to female, progressive and minority voters. Democrats are casting the court and Republicans as extremists intent on obliterating rights taken for granted for years.
Two men have been indicted in the case of a tractor-trailer rig found with 53 dead or dying migrants inside in San Antonio. A statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office in San Antonio says 46-year-old Homero Zamorano Jr. and 28-year-old Christian Martinez, both of Pasadena, Texas, were indicted Wednesday on counts of transporting and conspiring to transport migrants illegally resulting in death; and transporting and conspiring to transport migrants illegally resulting in serious injury. The incident happened on a remote San Antonio back road on June 27. Conviction on the death counts could result in life sentences. But the Attorney General’s Office could authorize prosecutors to seek death penalties.
The two candidates to become Britain’s next prime minister have begun a head-to-head battle for the votes of Conservative Party members who will choose the country’s new leader. Former Treasury chief Rishi Sunak is promising fiscal prudence. Foreign Secretary Liz Truss is offering immediate tax cuts to the right-of-center governing party. Sunak and Truss were chosen Wednesday by Conservative lawmakers as finalists to replace Boris Johnson who quit as party leader on July 7 after months of ethics scandals. He remains prime minister until his successor is chosen. The result of the party leadership contest is due on Sept. 5. The contenders face a party that is divided and demoralized after three turbulent years under Johnson.
Federal authorities are offering a $5,000 reward for information about the man who allegedly shot Lady Gaga’s dog walker last year in Hollywood and stole two of the pop star’s French bulldogs. Nineteen-year-old James Howard Jackson was mistakenly released from custody in April and remains missing. Detectives do not believe the thieves initially knew the dogs belonged to the pop star. The motive was supposedly the value of the French bulldogs — which can run into the thousands of dollars. U.S. Marshals, in a statement Monday, say Jackson should be considered armed and dangerous. The reward is for information that leads to his arrest. Representatives for Lady Gaga did not immediately return a request for comment Wednesday.
William “Poogie” Hart, a founder of the Grammy-winning trio the Delfonics who helped write and sang a soft lead tenor on such classic “Sound of Philadelphia” ballads as “La-La (Means I Love You)” and “Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time),” has died at age 77. His son told The New York Times that Hart died July 14 at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia from complications during surgery. From the late 1960s to the mid 1970s, the Delfonics had six top 40 pop hits and more than a dozen top 20 R&B hits, defined by the rich orchestral arrangements and layered harmonies that made Philadelphia soul as essential to the ’70s as Detroit’s Motown label had been in the previous decade.
Charles Johnson, the former Colorado receiver who won a Super Bowl title with New England in a nine-year NFL career, has died. He was 50. The university confirmed Johnson’s death Wednesday through Heritage High School, the Wake Forest school where he was an assistant athletic director. WNCN-TV in Raleigh reported Wednesday that police found a body in a hotel room Sunday during a welfare check at a Hampton Inn and Suites and that a preliminary investigation indicated no signs of foul play. Johnson was selected 17th overall by Pittsburgh in 1994 and played for the Steelers, Philadelphia, New England and Buffalo. At Colorado, Johnson was a freshman on the Buffaloes’ 1990 national championship team.
Detained WNBA star Brittney Griner was front and center at The ESPYS. Soccer star Megan Rapinoe admonished her fellow athletes for not doing enough to speak out while also encouraging them to support Griner. Griner was arrested in Russia in February after customs officials found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. NBA Finals MVP and show host Stephen Curry joined WNBA players Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith in calling attention to Griner's plight. Griner's wife attended the show in Hollywood and applauded their comments. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/bloomington-man-sentenced-to-4-years-on-2019-gun-charge/article_625568ec-090a-11ed-a26f-33dcd4c5c03d.html | 2022-07-21T19:28:16 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/bloomington-man-sentenced-to-4-years-on-2019-gun-charge/article_625568ec-090a-11ed-a26f-33dcd4c5c03d.html |
The virtual meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 28, via Zoom. To access the meeting at that time, visit zoom.us and click “join.” The meeting ID will be 836 7605 8829 with the passcode 390502. A QR code linking to the meeting is also available at normalil.gov under “Town of Normal News.”
The meeting will focus on how the community wants to use that area of land known as Uptown South and types of design elements it could feature.
Uptown South, previously called “Uptown 2.0,” will be connected to the main city core once the long-awaited pedestrian underpass at Uptown Station is complete. Construction on the roughly $24 million project is slated to begin in the spring of 2023 and last 18 to 24 months.
The 8-acre space is described by town officials as “bounded by South Linden Street to the east, East Irving Street to the south, the Constitution Trail to the west, and the train tracks to the north.”
The area is expected to include a new public plaza on the south side of the railroad tracks that divide the area.
The public meeting comes after the town launched an online survey to collect feedback on the area earlier this month.
“The public meeting is another way we are encouraging the community to participate so we better understand what people want to see in this area,” said Town Planner Mercy Davison.
The meeting will be recorded and available for replay on the town website.
Photos: Glorious Garden Festival gives smiles in Twin Cities
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Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.
MEET HERE: The Town of Normal's QR code, linking to the public feedback meeting for Uptown South. Point your smartphone camera at the QR code, then tap the link. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/normal-to-hold-digital-community-meeting-on-uptown-south/article_61df3942-0914-11ed-844a-73af23f75da1.html | 2022-07-21T19:28:22 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/normal-to-hold-digital-community-meeting-on-uptown-south/article_61df3942-0914-11ed-844a-73af23f75da1.html |
Jill Biden, education secretary visit Detroit public school summer enrichment program
Detroit — First lady Jill Biden and U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona paid a visit Thursday morning to students attending a Detroit Public Schools Community District summer learning program at the Schulze Academy for Technology and Arts.
The summer academic and enrichment program is for students from kindergarten to eighth grade and is meant to give them access to educational and mental health resources outside of their normal academic terms, prepare them for the start of school in the fall and help them recover from lost learning time during the pandemic.
Allison Parham is the parent of three students who attend Schulze Academy on the city's west side. She said she appreciated that her children have a place to go while she is at work and said her daughters have been implementing the skills they learn from the program at home.
"Coming out of the pandemic, with the summer learning program, it has really helped me and my children develop their social skills as well as their academic skills," Parham said. "Many of the community centers are not too close to my home, just this program alone — it's amazing."
Detroit is the second stop in the first lady's cross-country tour of summer learning and enrichment programs that use funds from President Joe Biden's American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. She and Cardona came from New Haven, Connecticut, and will continue to Athens, Georgia, later Thursday afternoon, despite President Joe Biden testing positive for COVID-19. Jill Biden said she tested negative for the virus Thursday morning and is staying masked in public places, per CDC guidelines.
The COVID-19 pandemic has heavily impacted students' academic experiences and mental health, with COVID-related school closures disproportionately affecting economically disadvantaged, minority students in Michigan.
Jill Biden, an English professor and career educator herself, emphasized the importance of using federal ARPA funds to help students' mental health in addition to making up for lost classroom time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I've seen the effects of the pandemic on learning," Biden said. "Our kids can catch up, they just need a little support to do it. And that's why ... I'm so grateful for the teachers who were inspiring our kids."
Many of the summer programs offered at Schulze Academy are focused on enrichment and engagement, rather than just academics. Biden and Cardona stopped by three classes on topics ranging from English literature to photography and cooking.
Teachers like Yolanda Scarborough, who runs an educational food service program called Camp Dinner Table, encourage their students through social and emotional learning.
"We teach them how to talk about things like diversity and then we make diverse culturally relevant foods through our program," she said. "We want the families to come together, we want them to recognize the benefits of eating at a dinner table."
Cardona said building social skills and community is particularly important after the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"These students are learning not only how to read and write and math, but how to do skills and how to learn about themselves and connect with one another," Cardona said. "Because what I'm seeing today, and what you're doing exceptionally well here in Detroit, is using the American Rescue Plan dollars to create community, to create a sense of purpose."
Following Biden and Cardona's classroom visits, Republican National Committee spokesperson Preya Samsundar said Michigan Democrats were "hypocrites" and that they and the Biden administration sided with teachers over parents when it came to mask mandates in classrooms.
“Parents have not forgotten that Miguel Cardona compared them to ‘terrorists’ just a few short months ago," Samsundar wrote in an email, referencing a letter the National School Boards Association wrote last fall to the president that referenced vitriol and threats against school officials as "a form of domestic terrorism".
"It doesn’t matter what Cardona or Jill Biden says, the Biden administration’s nauseating view on parents and the classroom is already clear,” Samsundar wrote.
The American Rescue Plan provided $122 billion to schools nationwide, $3.7 billion of which has been given to Michigan for elementary and secondary school emergency relief funding.
The ARP requires a minimum of $2.4 billion to be spent across all states in support of high-quality afterschool and summer learning programs, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Detroit has received more than $800 million in ARP ESSER funds that have allowed the city's public schools to double their summer term enrollment to 8,000 students.
Nikolai Vitti, superintendent of the Detroit Public Schools Community District, said the funds have helped put a nurse in every school building, expand mental health, offer after-school and summer programs and install air conditioning in all schools by 2027.
"I can finally say that over the last two years, we have felt equitably funded," Vitti said. "We have the resources that our children and families need to be successful."
The first lady agreed that the Detroit district has put its COVID relief funding to good use, encouraging other public school systems to follow suit.
"This partnership of these fiercely loving parents, tireless educators and dedicated leaders is putting all the funds from the American rescue plan to good use," Jill Biden said. "The president and I are calling on all school districts to follow your lead."
hmackay@detroitnews.com | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/07/21/jill-biden-miguel-cardona-visit-arp-funded-detroit-summer-program/10095976002/ | 2022-07-21T19:30:22 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/07/21/jill-biden-miguel-cardona-visit-arp-funded-detroit-summer-program/10095976002/ |
SAN ANTONIO — A Uvalde police officer's body camera caught responders restrain school policeman Ruben Ruiz moments after his wife, a teacher, told him she'd been shot.
Thousands of people have already watched the video on Reddit and Twitter. Texas Department of Public Safety head Steve McCraw told lawmakers that other officials took Ruiz's gun and escorted the four-year department veteran away from the building.
Ruiz, among the first lawmen to arrive at Robb Elementary, has already endured intense scrutiny. Social media users slammed him for checking his phone about thirty seconds after he entered the school building.
Those critics did not hear Ruiz tell another responder "that's my wife's classroom" a minute later.
Eva Mireles taught fourth grade in room 112, likely the second class the gunman entered. A number of cameras caught glimpses of Ruiz on the phone, likely trying to contact his wife.
At some point, the two connected. Mireles told Ruiz she was dying, McCraw said.
Ruiz's plea was among the first indications victims were alive in the classroom with the shooter. Even after restraining the school policeman, other law enforcement waited nearly an hour to barge in the classroom.
Citing video not publicly released, the New York Times reports that law enforcement killed the gunman and carried Mireles, alive, out of her classroom.
She reportedly reached an ambulance but died before reaching the hospital. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/husband-uvalde-video-shows-robb-elementary-responders-restrain-policeman-married-to-victim/273-bdb69971-78f9-4eb4-9378-730bfe2a928f | 2022-07-21T19:32:01 | 1 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/husband-uvalde-video-shows-robb-elementary-responders-restrain-policeman-married-to-victim/273-bdb69971-78f9-4eb4-9378-730bfe2a928f |
A coalition campaigning against school segregation in New Jersey is now threatening to file a federal complaint against the state.
Building One America and its affiliate New Jersey Coalition Against Racial Exclusion, or NJ-CARE, said in a letter dated Monday they intend to file a complaint against New Jersey with the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice. The coalition argues that state leaders, particularly Gov. Phil Murphy, have not taken the action necessary to integrate New Jersey classrooms, in violation of federal civil rights law.
Activists hand-delivered the letter to U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke on Monday as she was speaking at the NAACP National Convention in Atlantic City.
“We will allege that the state is using federal funds to knowingly promote and perpetuate one of the most segregated and unequal public school systems in the nation,” the letter said.
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A spokesperson for the governor deferred comment to the state Attorney General’s Office, which in turn declined to comment. The U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division did not respond to a request for comment as of Thursday afternoon.
NJ-CARE sent similar letters to NAACP New Jersey State Conference President Richard Smith and NAACP President Derrick Johnson in the run-up to the NAACP convention. It had asked that the NAACP disinvite Murphy from the convention, which wrapped up Wednesday night, owing to what they argue has been his failure to advance racial equality in New Jersey schools. About 140 people, including several people affiliated with their local NAACP branches from across the state, have signed onto the letter to Johnson. Organizers have said additional people were still signing the letter belatedly online.
ATLANTIC CITY — The NAACP awarded U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn its Spingarn Medal to…
Smith previously told The Press of Atlantic City that the NAACP has been at the forefront of the fight against school segregation for over a century. He highlighted the group’s recent efforts to make New Jersey schools more diverse, including its work to bring a 2018 lawsuit over school segregation against Murphy and the state.
He could not be reached to discuss the latest NJ-CARE letter and its contents as of Thursday afternoon.
The NJ-CARE letter cited the 2018 lawsuit. It said the Murphy administration’s refusal to settle and seek a remedy to diversify New Jersey classrooms betrays a lack of commitment to school integration. The group further alleges the governor has sought to undermine the plaintiffs in the case.
The Latino Action Network, the New Jersey NAACP and other civil rights advocacy organizations sued the state in 2018 accusing it of having segregated school systems that disadvantage Black and Hispanic students. The case is being adjudicated in Mercer County Superior Court.
The letter further alluded to what it argues has been the state’s lack of action to prevent schools with large white populations from leaving majority non-white school districts.
“It is absolutely obvious that the state and its governor are seeking to perpetuate the segregated system of education and, indeed, to make the system worse and more unequal, rather than to work with civil rights, community leaders and legislators to enact reform,” the letter said.
The efforts of NJ-CARE to protest the governor or the New Jersey NAACP is not a sudden development. It circulated another letter earlier in the year protesting the Murphy administration’s stance on school integration, which it then sent out to Murphy campaign donors.
NJ-CARE has also led protests against the proposed termination of the send-receive agreement between the Absecon Public School District and Pleasantville Public Schools — an arrangement that sees a small number of white Absecon students attend Pleasantville High School, which is attended by predominantly Black and Hispanic students. One protest about the issue disrupted the Atlantic County Democratic Convention in March.
Pleasantville and activists have said that ending the agreement would worsen segregation in the area, essentially making Pleasantville High School one that would exclusively serve non-white students. Absecon argues that its already diverse student body would benefit from the resources available at high schools that offered a more stable, but still diverse environment.
The acting New Jersey Commissioner of Education, Angelica Allen-McMillan, sided with Pleasantville in a May ruling. Absecon has vowed to appeal the ruling and filed a request for reconsideration with the commissioner in June.
NJ-CARE has maintained that its goal has been to secure an audience with the governor to discuss its own school integration proposals, which it has detailed in a 69-slide presentation. It emphasized in the letter addressed to DOJ Civil Rights Division that it would still prefer a legislative solution over litigation. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/integration-advocates-consider-filing-federal-complaint-against-new-jersey/article_0a650f98-082e-11ed-80e8-9bd435a310bb.html | 2022-07-21T19:32:42 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/integration-advocates-consider-filing-federal-complaint-against-new-jersey/article_0a650f98-082e-11ed-80e8-9bd435a310bb.html |
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Chick-fil-A and the Birmingham Barons have teamed up to offer one lucky winner the chance to throw out the first pitch at a game this season while also receiving free food for an entire year.
The winner of the giveaway will be invited to throw out the first pitch at Regions Field on Aug. 20 when the Barons take on the Tennessee Smokies. If selected, you will also receive four tickets to the game and a 3-foot-tall plush cow.
The Barons’ Pyro Palooza, which is described as the team’s “biggest fireworks show of the season” is also scheduled for that night.
To enter the sweepstakes, text the word “BARONS” to 1-877-232-2697. The promotion will be open from July 25 to Aug. 5. | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/how-you-can-win-free-chick-fil-a-for-a-year-and-throw-out-the-first-pitch-at-a-birmingham-barons-game/ | 2022-07-21T19:35:14 | 1 | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/how-you-can-win-free-chick-fil-a-for-a-year-and-throw-out-the-first-pitch-at-a-birmingham-barons-game/ |
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