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CLAY COUNTY, Ala. – An Apopka man was killed Sunday during an attempted robbery at Talladega National Forest in Alabama, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
Adam Simjee, 22, was visiting the forest with his girlfriend, Mikayla Paulus, when they were flagged down by a woman on the side of the road, according to a GoFundMe set up by Simjee’s family.
[TRENDING: Can a Florida wildlife officer pull me over for a traffic violation? | Brightline announces traffic advisories from Orlando to West Palm Beach | Central Florida boy, 10, loses leg in shark attack | Become a News 6 Insider (it’s free!)]
Deputies said the woman asked Simjee for help with a car, and after Simjee offered to get help from the ranger station, the woman — later identified as Yasmine Hider — pulled a gun and made the couple walk back into the woods.
When Hider lowered her guard, Simjee pulled out his own firearm and exchanged fire with her, suffering fatal injuries in the process, the GoFundMe says.
Clay County deputies said Simjee died at the scene, having been shot in the back.
Deputies added that Hider was found lying on the ground nearby, having suffered several gunshot wounds to her torso. She was airlifted to a hospital in Birmingham to undergo surgery for her injuries, reports show.
A second woman suspected in the attempted robbery fled the scene, and law enforcement investigated her whereabouts for several hours afterward, deputies said.
Deputies said they received information that the two women may have been part of a group of people “living off the grid” in the forest, and the group was reported to be “armed and potentially violent.”
Eventually, law enforcement officers said they located a camp roughly a half-mile away from the scene of the shooting, and the suspected woman — identified as Krystal Pinkins — was found standing near a tent.
While law enforcement ordered Pinkins to the ground, a 5-year-old child came out from the woods holding a loaded shotgun and ran over to Pinkins before putting the shotgun down, deputies said. Investigators said the child was later identified as Pinkins’ son.
The sheriff’s office said in a statement that the boy was taken into custody by the Department of Human Resources.
Pinkins was arrested and faces charges for endangering the welfare of a child, murder, kidnapping and robbery. She is being held at the Clay County Detention Center under bond.
Deputies said Hider is currently recovering from surgeries at a Birmingham hospital, though deputies have obtained warrants against Hider for charges of murder, kidnapping and robbery.
Deputies also said Paulus was not injured in the shooting, though she did suffer mental stress and trauma. Paulus was found performing CPR on Simjee when law enforcement arrived, according to the sheriff’s office.
In an interview, Paulus told CBS news correspondent Andrea Lindenberg that Simjee died saving Paulus’ life.
“The outpouring of support from everyone in Alabama has really made all the difference in dealing with this tragedy,” Paulus told Lindenberg. “He was the best man I could have ever imagined, and he left a positive impact on every single person he met.”
Lindenberg said Paulus told her Simjee was a “proud 2nd Amendment supporter” and that this situation “is exactly why he supported the right to own a gun.”
“No doubt, the world is dimmer without him,” Lindenberg wrote in a Facebook post. “And we here in Alabama are left to wonder if there are any safe places left... apparently outside of a fortified home, there are not too many.”
Lindenberg added that Simjee’s cousin, Balal, said his family hasn’t yet told Simjee’s 95-year-old grandmother over fears she may “die of a broken heart.”
A GoFundMe has been set up to help Simjee’s family gather necessary funds to cover funeral and burial costs. To donate to their fundraiser, click here.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/16/apopka-man-killed-in-robbery-during-visit-to-national-forest-deputies-say/ | 2022-08-16T23:35:45 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/16/apopka-man-killed-in-robbery-during-visit-to-national-forest-deputies-say/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – R&B legends are hitting the Amway Center stage in Orlando this Friday.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the only R&B station in Orlando, Daytona Beach’s Star 94.5 is inviting R&B fans to a live concert featuring superstars Maxwell, Xscape and Joe.
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The performance will take place at 8 p.m. on Friday at the Amway Center.
Maxwell, known as one of the founders of the neo-soul movement and the No. 1 male R&B artist in the world, will be joined by the No. 1 female R&B girl group, Xscape, and Joe, an Atlanta-born soul sensation making his Amway Center debut.
To purchase tickets, click here. Those interested can also discover concert discounts here.
Check out every episode of Riff On This in the media player below: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/16/award-winning-rb-artists-hit-the-amway-center-stage-in-orlando/ | 2022-08-16T23:35:51 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/16/award-winning-rb-artists-hit-the-amway-center-stage-in-orlando/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – One Orlando crossing guard is sharing her reason why she’s still working after more than a decade of service, in hopes of getting results and having more people join her ranks.
“Alright, y’all have a good night, I’ll see you in the morning,” said Hazel Colson as she ushered a few children and parents across the street.
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At 69 years old, Hazel Colson is credited as the first crossing guard in Baldwin Park, helping kids and parents cross the corner of Corrine and Common Way Drive since 2008.
“On my morning walks I used to see a police officer walking the children and I didn’t give it a lot of thought,” Colson said. “Then the next school year I saw signs for crossing guards needed, and so I applied.”
Fast forward 14 years later, Colson is still helping children and parents cross the road.
She says she became a safety expert after retiring from the banking industry and says you don’t have to look far to see what motivates her to keep going.
“I’ve enjoyed seeing the kids,” said Colson, “I still see kids that are in college, and they’ll come by and roll their windows and wave. Every now and then someone will stop, you know give a hug and we catch up with each other.”
Colson says besides providing safety, it’s the connection to her community that makes her job so important.
“If you think about it, a crossing guard may be the first friendly face, other than family, that a child sees in the morning and that’s important,” said Colson.
Colson hopes to get results through her story and inspire more people to join her ranks.
At this time, Orlando Police Department is looking for 20 more crossing guards to fill vacancies throughout the city.
“It is a great job for someone who has an hour in the morning and an hour in the afternoon and they can get out and interact with other people,” Colson said. “And it could be fun.”
Colson says while she does have fun, there are challenges.
“Don’t mind the weather, you’ve got the heat and the cold and the rain,” said Colson. “It’s just water, and I joke with the kids saying if they get wet enough, they won’t have to take a bath that night.”
Crossing guards start at $15.45 an hour and work a split shift. You must also be at least 18, have reliable transportation, and be able to read, write and communicate in English.
To find out more about being a crossing guard, head to the Orlando website. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/16/it-is-a-great-job-1st-crossing-guard-in-baldwin-park-hopes-her-story-will-encourage-others/ | 2022-08-16T23:35:57 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/16/it-is-a-great-job-1st-crossing-guard-in-baldwin-park-hopes-her-story-will-encourage-others/ |
RICHMOND, Va. — The American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia has filed a legal challenge to a last-minute amendment to the state budget that blocked the planned early release of hundreds of inmates this summer.
The ACLU claims in a lawsuit filed Monday on behalf of inmate Antoine Anderson that state prison officials wrongly interpreted the amendment. The petition demands that Anderson be released immediately.
Anderson, now 45, has spent the past 18 years in prison on federal drug charges, as well as charges of attempted escape, abduction and two counts of assault on a corrections officer during what he described as a riot at the Albemarle-Charlottesville jail, where he was being held in 2004, said Geri Greenspan, a staff attorney for the ACLU.
In March, Anderson was told by prison officials that he had earned enough good behavior time under the 2020 expanded credits law to be released in July. But less than two weeks before he was expecting to get out, he was told that the recent budget amendment proposed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin and approved by the General Assembly made him ineligible for the early release date. Now, Anderson is expected to remain in prison until April 2024.
The budget amendment excluded Anderson and more than 500 other inmates with violent offenses from receiving the expanded credits, meaning they would have to serve more time and would not be released in July and August, as they expected.
In its petition, the ACLU said Anderson fell into a depression after learning he would have to serve an additional 22 months in prison.
“When we were told we were not going home, it broke down our mental state. It made us feel like we were never going to leave. We served our time, and we deserve to have a second chance. We are not the same people we were when we entered prison,” Anderson said in a statement released by the ACLU.
Anderson’s 18-year-old daughter, Niya, was born after her father went to prison and has never known him outside prison walls. She said she and her father were crushed because he planned to bring her to Delaware State University soon for her to start college.
“Why would you grant freedom to somebody and then take it away — like it’s not a life we’re talking about?” she said. “This is somebody’s freedom.”
During the legislative debate, Republicans, who were joined by a few Senate Democrats in approving the amendment, argued that offenders who were convicted of violent crimes shouldn’t get a shot at reducing their time behind bars.
The 2020 law, passed when Democrats were in full control of state government, created a system that allowed inmates with good behavior and participation in rehabilitation programs to earn expanded credits for up to 15 days per month to be taken off their sentences for nonviolent offenses. Before the law was approved, inmates could earn up to 4.5 days per month.
The law had a delayed effective date of July 1, 2022, so prison officials would have time to calculate new release dates.
Under the 2020 law, violent offenses were not eligible for the expanded credit. But if inmates had a combined sentence with both a violent conviction and a lower-tier one, they could potentially shave some time off the sentence they were given for the nonviolent offense.
Multiple attempts to repeal the law failed, but the last-minute budget amendment from Youngkin was approved by the General Assembly in June.
In its legal challenge, the ACLU said state prison officials have misinterpreted the budget amendment to apply retroactively, thereby negating the credits Anderson and others like him had earned before July 1, 2022, when the budget went into effect.
“Under just principles of statutory interpretation, the only way to interpret the meaning of the statute is to say the budget amendment applies only to time served between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2024,” said Greenspan, referring to the two-year period covered by the budget.
The ACLU said Anderson has taken steps to rehabilitate himself, including completing drug treatment programs, anger management classes, parenting classes and commercial driver training.
A spokesman for the Department of Corrections declined to comment on the lawsuit. Youngkin’s office referred a request for comment to the office of Attorney General Jason Miyares. His spokesperson declined comment, saying the office had not received the lawsuit. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/aclu-challenges-amendment-blocking-inmates-early-release/2022/08/16/6060f536-1db6-11ed-9ce6-68253bd31864_story.html | 2022-08-16T23:39:12 | 0 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/aclu-challenges-amendment-blocking-inmates-early-release/2022/08/16/6060f536-1db6-11ed-9ce6-68253bd31864_story.html |
CROFTON, Md. — The family of a Maryland man fatally shot by a police officer filed a federal civil right lawsuit Monday against the department and individual officers.
Bodycam footage shows Quarles punching Officer J. Ricci. As officers handcuff Quarles, the video shows him bite Ricci and another officer deploy a stun gun. Ricci calls on colleagues to shoot Quarles, then fires himself. Quarles died and Ricci was taken to a trauma center in serious condition, officials said.
Mikel Quarles said at a news conference announcing the suit Monday that she was asking for help and her son was killed, news outlets reported. Attorneys for the family said part of the suit focuses on officers’ training.
The officers weren’t properly trained “and reacted in a manner which was unconstitutional, unreasonable and excessive,” attorney Gregory Kulis said. The officers should have reduced tension, he said.
“The police arrived with guns drawn,” Kulis said. “They were ready to go to battle.”
The Attorney General’s Office said the case remains under investigation. County police declined comment, but said Ricci is still recovering. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/family-sues-police-over-fatal-shooting-at-maryland-home/2022/08/16/56300174-1db1-11ed-9ce6-68253bd31864_story.html | 2022-08-16T23:39:18 | 1 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/family-sues-police-over-fatal-shooting-at-maryland-home/2022/08/16/56300174-1db1-11ed-9ce6-68253bd31864_story.html |
BOISE — Distributions to schools and other beneficiaries from the state endowment will be frozen next year at this year’s level, due to investment losses in the fund in the fiscal year that ended June 30.
That means total distributions from the endowment in fiscal year 2024 will be $100.3 million, with $61.5 million going to Idaho’s K-12 public schools, the same amount they’re receiving this year.
Chris Anton, manager of investments for the state’s Endowment Fund Investment Board, said the board recommended keeping distributions flat next year.
“The rationale for this is that earnings reserves are below target levels, we still are facing a significant inflation hurdle, and financial markets are expected to remain volatile given the uncertainty surrounding our ability to fight inflation without pushing us into a recession,” he told the state Land Board on Tuesday.
The board, which is chaired by the governor and is comprised of other top elected state officials, voted unanimously to approve the recommendation.
“If we were following our policy, what would the endowment distribution amount be?” asked state Controller Brandon Woolf.
Anton said it would be $106.4 million, so the recommended level is $6.1 million less overall.
Though state coffers are overflowing, the state endowment took a big loss in the markets in fiscal year 2022.
“At the end of ’22, the portfolio had a loss of 13%, and inflation of 7.2%, so a real loss of 20.2%,” Anton said. “Earnings reserves dropped below targeted levels,” falling to 5.8 years for public schools, and between 5.4 and 6.7 years for the other beneficiaries. The target is to maintain reserves at seven years worth of distribution payments. Public schools are, by far, the endowment’s biggest beneficiaries. The others include state universities, prisons and mental hospitals.
Woolf moved to approve the EFIB’s recommendation, Idaho Secretary of State Lawerence Denney seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously with no discussion.
Idaho state Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said after the meeting, “We had talked about this at prior meetings, because I was pretty much aware that was coming.” She called holding the distributions flat “a good thing for schools,” because they didn’t go down.
“They need stability,” Ybarra said. “I want to make sure they’re not all over the map.”
Anton noted that due to extremely strong investment earnings earlier, including a nearly 30% gain in fiscal year 2021, distributions to endowment beneficiaries rose by 13.8% this year, from $88.1 million in fiscal year 2022 to $103 million this year, which is fiscal year 2023.
Since the start of the fiscal year July 1, the state endowment is up 8.9%, Anton reported. “Financial markets staged a modest recovery in July and in early August,” he said. “A growing number of economic indicators have started to reflect slowing of consumer demand, but strong employment has allowed the Fed to continue the process of raising rates to calm inflation.”
“We have seen inflation hopefully peak,” he said. “It came down from 9.2% to 8.5%. And the market is reflecting anticipation of … (that rate) continuing to decline in the months going forward.”
“The yield curve, however, has inverted,” Anton said, “meaning that short-term yields are higher than long-term yields, and historically that’s been a leading indicator of a recession. But only time will tell. … Anyway, we’re off to a good start so far in this fiscal year.”
In other business on Tuesday, the state Land Board:
• Heard a presentation from the University of Idaho about its long-planned project, dubbed the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, to build the country’s largest research dairy and experimental farm in the Magic Valley. UI is proposing to finance the cost of 638 acres of property north of Rupert with $23.2 million that came from auctioning off UI’s former endowment property in Caldwell in 2021, adjacent to the former Caine Center veterinary teaching facility.
Industry donors, university funds and a state appropriation also will contribute toward the facility’s full $46.6 million cost; it’s planned to open in February of 2026 with an initial herd of 1,380 cows, a state-of-the-art milking system, classrooms, research facilities, a pilot food processing plant and more. The CAFÉ facility also will generate revenue through research grants and milk sales.
“This project will help the university support sustainable growth for our state’s top agricultural industries that drive the economy of the state,” UI President Scott Green told the Land Board, including research into better ways of managing waste. “It also produces the maximum long-term return for our beneficiary, the Agricultural College,” which is one of the state endowment beneficiaries.
• Received a fire season report showing that wildfires on state-protected lands have run up $5.95 million in net costs to the state thus far for the season, with 134 fires, 80 of them human-caused and 54 lightning-caused. To date, the number of fires is at 60% of the 20-year average, but the number of acres burned is at just 2% of the 20-year average. “Our folks have been very busy the last few days, but they’ve caught everything,” state Lands Director Dustin Miller told the board. “I’m very impressed with the speed of our crews to get these things out.” An above-average fire season is predicted from now through the end of September, he said.
• Heard that the state endowment is down to just 60 remaining leased cottage sites, of which 32 lessees have expressed interest in participating in an auction. The state has been auctioning off its lake cabin sites on Payette and Priest lakes that it’s leased for more than a century to private owners who build cabins on them. The Department of Lands is weighing several options for the 28 remaining lessees who want to continue to lease their sites beyond 2024. The board will consider action on that in September. | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/no-increase-in-endowment-distributions-to-idaho-schools-next-year/article_f93add43-8835-574e-8e83-4803f21c2bb8.html | 2022-08-16T23:39:32 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/no-increase-in-endowment-distributions-to-idaho-schools-next-year/article_f93add43-8835-574e-8e83-4803f21c2bb8.html |
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM TO 9 PM MDT
WEDNESDAY...
* WHAT...Temperatures up to 103 expected.
* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Idaho and
northeast and southeast Oregon.
* WHEN...From 3 PM to 9 PM MDT Wednesday.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
&&
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People gather at the Anne Frank Memorial’s 20th Anniversary celebration on Tuesday, held by the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights.
BOISE — About 100 people gathered at the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial to celebrate its 20th anniversary on Tuesday morning. It was a cool, sunny morning, with free rugelach — a pastry that originated in the Jewish communities of Poland — from Goldstein's Bagels & Bialys and coffee from Neckar Coffee.
Wassmuth Center for Human Rights Executive Director Dan Prinzing spoke first, addressing both the history and future of the memorial.
“When we give tours here, the first question folks ask is ‘How the heck did this ever happen in Boise, Idaho?’” Prinzing said. “It's because it’s who we are. It is the heart of the city. It is the heart of the community. It is us. It is a statement to the public that this is who we are in Boise. This is what we believe in.”
Prinzing then talked about a new initiative to bring an augmented-reality game, which are phone games where people interact with their environment like “Pokemon Go,” to the memorial.
“A game to counter the radicalization of youth,” Prinzing said. “How exciting for a new generation, to bring them into this space, to become involved in the story. It's not somebody else's story. It's my story. It's how I find myself within the space, how the space works in me, thinking and reflecting.”
Prinzing then introduced Boise Mayor Lauren McLean.
“I said to Dan (Prinzing) this morning, it’s really impossible for me to remember this space not being here,” McLean said. “It feels as though it has always been a part of the community because it is such an important part.”
She said, in the '90s, she wondered why the memorial was built in Boise.
“It was because at the time we needed to put a flag in the ground and remind ourselves, given all that was happening in our state and particularly in north Idaho, and everybody else who it is that we aspire to be and can be and are," McLean said, "but how likely and easy it is to become that which we don't want to be.”
McLean recounted her own experience as an undergraduate visiting Anne Frank’s house and Auschwitz. She still remembers the smallness of Frank’s house and how big Auschwitz was.
“I remember walking up the stairs, seeing and feeling those small spaces, and really not being able to imagine how someone just a little younger than me at the time could have written as she wrote and held such hope in such dark, dark times,” McLean said.
She said there is still work to do.
“We find ourselves in so many similar situations that we need to have this. We need to mark this memorial of 20 years,” McLean said. “More importantly, together, we need to say that in the next 5, 10, 15, 20 years, we're going to be able to look back at this anniversary and remember that we not only marked this in our conscious as a city, but that we are willing to continue to take action together.”
Boise Police Department Chief Ryan Lee told the crowd about the partnership the police department has with the center and how officers routinely come here for tours and conversations.
“We come and listen to the important lessons that can be learned here,” Lee said. “We hear of the transgression of the past, and really sit down in question and understand what our roles are as police officers. Fundamentally, that is, for police officers in a free and private society, is swearing to protect human rights.”
He also spoke about how safe Boise is, not just because of the police, but because of the community.
“Frankly, the fact that this monument is here, this memorial is here, is a testament to the content of this city's character,” Lee said.
Prinzing ended the speeches by talking about the new Wassmuth Education Center. The construction process will start behind the memorial’s waterfalls in mid-October and will finish in August 2023.
“How's it happening?” Prinzing asked. “Because of you. Because of the support of a community that recognizes, in spite of everything, people are still good at heart.” | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/wassmuth-center-celebrates-anne-frank-memorial-s-20th-anniversary/article_8900aeb0-1f08-53a5-bbf0-5353ea02a032.html | 2022-08-16T23:39:38 | 1 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/wassmuth-center-celebrates-anne-frank-memorial-s-20th-anniversary/article_8900aeb0-1f08-53a5-bbf0-5353ea02a032.html |
The November mid-term elections are less than three months away.
This means debate season is approaching. For a political junkie like me, this is like Christmas, baseball Opening Day, and graduation all rolled into one. There’s nothing I like more than a good old-fashioned debate. It’s like a professional wrestling match without the choreography.
One moderator, two candidates. Face to face. No teleprompter, no consultants, no handlers.
I’ve never understood candidates who try to dodge debates. If I were running for something, this would be my favorite part of the campaign. And, frankly, if I were campaigning for political office, I would want to defend my positions and show off my knowledge of the issues. Otherwise, what’s the point?
But then if I got elected, I’d actually have to attend committee meetings and read complicated pieces of legislation. Or maybe not. Now, lawmakers just wait for their party leader to tell them how to vote. Except for the good ones, few as they may be, who realize you don’t have to be 100% in favor of something or 100% against. They understand “compromise,” a word that is rapidly disappearing. Today’s party members are joined together like those inseparable shopping carts at Walmart.
Here are some warning signs as we get into debate season.
1) Beware of “blah blah blah.” In 2020, I heard a candidate respond to a question by saying, “I don’t feel any need to have to explain where I stand on gun rights and blah blah blah.” Sir (or Madam), if all you’ve got is “blah blah blah,” I’ll just say “blah” when I see your name on the ballot.
2) Beware of candidates who have been coached to discuss one topic and one topic only. If their campaign research tells them that the current hot-button topic is education, that’s all you’ll hear from them. When the moderator asks for their opinion on climate change, they will respond, “I’m glad you asked that question. (Wheels turn in their heads). When I’m out among the people, they tell me this is important to them. (Furiously trying to remember their one and only talking point). Climate change is a concern, but we shouldn’t overreact. (Patting themselves on the back for saying it’s a big deal, but not that big a deal, thus satisfying both sides). We must certainly apply this to our schools, where students should be comfortable and safe, yet free from any outside influence. And good teachers should be rewarded, while we send the bad ones packing.”
This answer, in various forms, will also be the candidate’s reply to questions about health care, Social Security, and their favorite color.
3) Beware of the no-shows. “Debate? Absolutely! Bring it on,” they’ll say. But when their handlers determine that they have a sizable lead in the polls, or that they would lose a debate against a sock puppet, suddenly every potential date is booked. We never know if they’re really busy or they’re just binge watching “The Great British Bake Off,” but they assure us they can’t find a free hour between now and November to face their opponent.
Well, Mr. No-Show, I don’t care how much I love you (or your party), or how much I loathe the other candidate, if you can’t fend for yourself, you forfeit my vote.
Clearly, the bar is pretty low these days. If voters generally approve of you or your party or even your stand on the issues (if that’s still a thing), they’ll forgive a subpar debate performance. Odds are, if you’re that reluctant to debate, not much is expected of you anyway. Anything short of embarrassing bodily function noises will probably result in a “passing” grade (sorry, I couldn’t resist).
If there are any debates, I have one request for the moderator. Please make sure this question is included: “What is one good or positive thing you can say about your opponent?” The answer might reveal more about a candidate’s character than any policy question.
Finally, go to YouTube, and watch some debates from decades ago, before the current political circus came to every town. If any candidate can act like an adult, we’ve got a winner.
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd,
racist or sexually-oriented language. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another
person will not be tolerated. Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone
or anything. Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism
that is degrading to another person. Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on
each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness
accounts, the history behind an article. | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/david-carroll-political-debate-like-pro-wrestling-without-choreography/article_dfd65df0-1d5d-11ed-93c4-173d739bd8d8.html | 2022-08-16T23:43:00 | 0 | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/david-carroll-political-debate-like-pro-wrestling-without-choreography/article_dfd65df0-1d5d-11ed-93c4-173d739bd8d8.html |
Former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels isn't yet saying what he'll do next after closing the books at the end of the year on his decade-long tenure as Purdue University president.
In the meantime, some of his former aides are trying to steer the Republican back into the friendly confines of the Indiana Statehouse.
Earlier this month, former Daniels administration officials Christine Hurst and Ben Ledo organized a political action committee, dubbed Frugal Hoosiers for Mitch 2024, whose official purpose is "encouraging Mitch Daniels to run for governor in 2024."
State campaign finance records show Hurst as chairwoman of the PAC and Ledo as its treasurer, with an account set up at the National Bank of Indianapolis to accept donations.
It's not unprecedented for Daniels' fans to attempt to draft him for political offices.
Valpo man charged after found slumped over in vehicle with syringe in hand, Portage police say
Teen molested, recorded after sneaking out during sleepover, Porter County police say
Taxpayer rebate checks finally headed to Hoosier homes
Gary drug dealer pleads guilty in murder of rival businessman
Man dead after losing control of vehicle on I-94, Porter County coroner says
Portage police say they came under attack and were injured after responding to large brawl
Valparaiso begins design process for new Community Sports and Recreation Complex
2nd shooting in 3 nights at Hammond park
UPDATE: Driver in fatal Merrillville hit-and-run said she had green light, police say
Man charged with murder in MLK Park shooting
NWI Business Ins and Outs: Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, Buona Beef, Rainbow Cone, Portillo's and Twisted Sugar coming
Convicted intoxicated driver again charged, this time with causing Portage woman's death
Whiting Empanada Fest coming to Lake Michigan lakefront
Region woman says she was sexually assaulted at home by stranger, police say
1 shot to death in Hammond; mayor shuts down basketball courts at MLK Park after 2nd shooting in 3 nights
Daniels seriously considered running for president in 2012 following a nationwide grassroots movement, and he was strongly encouraged to run for governor again in 2016 after Mike Pence was nominated for vice president.
But, if there's one thing Daniels is known for, it's making decisions on his own terms and only when he's ready.
So unless he's eager to tamp down speculation, it likely will be next year — when he's no longer leading Purdue — before Hoosiers hear anything from Daniels himself about another run for governor.
Daniels is eligible to seek the office. The Indiana Constitution limits governors to two, four-year terms in any 12-year period, and Daniels has been out of office since 2013 after spending eight years as the state's chief executive.
Current two-term Gov. Eric Holcomb, another former Daniels aide, is bumping up against the term limit and can't run again in 2024, creating an open contest for the GOP nomination.
While Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and Fort Wayne businessman Eric Doden already are raising money in anticipation of a gubernatorial run, Daniels likely would immediately become the favorite in the race given many Hoosiers' fond memories of his tenure and his ability to draw on a nationwide fundraising network.
Daniels also has plenty of detractors, particularly in Northwest Indiana, for enacting Indiana's anti-union right-to-work statute, leasing the Indiana Toll Road to a private operator, expanding access to charter schools and private school vouchers and sharply limiting local government resources through property tax caps.
If elected in 2024, Daniels would be 75 years old on his Jan. 13, 2025, inauguration day.
Here are the new Indiana laws to know that took effect July 1
Animals
The owner of a lion, tiger, leopard, snow leopard, jaguar, mountain lion or bear must prevent all direct physical contact between the animal and a member of the general public, no matter the age of the animal. Violations are subject to a $1,000 fine for each person who comes into contact with the animal. (House Enrolled Act 1248 )
The owner of a lion, tiger, leopard, snow leopard, jaguar, mountain lion or bear must prevent all direct physical contact between the animal and a member of the general public, no matter the age of the animal. Violations are subject to a $1,000 fine for each person who comes into contact with the animal. (House Enrolled Act 1248)
John J. Watkins, file, The Times
Annexation
The Aberdeen subdivision may seek to officially become part of Valparaiso, even though the neighborhood is not currently contiguous to the city. A pre-annexation financial study must be completed so Aberdeen residents know the fiscal impact of being voluntarily annexed by Valparaiso. (House Enrolled Act 1110 )
Doug Ross, file, The Times
Ag equipment
Counties, cities or towns can designate agricultural zones as Economic Revitalization Areas (ERA) on the same basis as outdated business districts or distressed residential neighborhoods. New farm equipment or new agricultural improvements located in an ERA are eligible for a property tax abatement for up to five years. The exemption does not apply to farmland. (Senate Enrolled Act 119 )
AP file photo
Bone marrow
The Indiana Department of Health is authorized to establish and promote a bone marrow donor recruitment program to find eligible Hoosiers willing to donate bone marrow to individuals fighting leukemia, lymphoma and other blood cell conditions. (Senate Enrolled Act 398 )
John Luke, file, The Times
Campus speech
State colleges and universities cannot designate outdoor areas of campus where First Amendment activities are prohibited. Higher education institutions may impose reasonable and content-neutral time, place and manner restrictions on other campus speech that's narrowly tailored to serve a significant interest of the school. (House Enrolled Act 1190 )
John J. Watkins, file, The Times
Caregivers
An adult relative caring for a child after the child has been removed from a dangerous home situation is entitled to directly participate in court hearings concerning services needed by the child, or terminating the parent-child relationship. Previously, only state-licensed foster parents had a statutory right to intervene in legal proceedings pertaining to abused or neglected children. (Senate Enrolled Act 410 )
Times file photo
Catalytic converters
A catalytic converter is redefined as a "major component part" of a motor vehicle and only licensed automobile salvage recyclers are permitted to buy or sell used catalytic converters. Automobile salvage recyclers also must keep the same records for catalytic converters as valuable metal dealers and cash payouts for detached catalytic converters are capped at $25 per transaction per day. (Senate Enrolled Act 293 )
Jonathan Miano, file, The Times
Coerced abortion
A new crime of "coerced abortion" punishes anyone who knowingly or intentionally coerces a pregnant woman to have an abortion with up to 2 1/2 years in prison. State law already required "the voluntary and informed consent of the pregnant woman" prior to obtaining an abortion. (House Enrolled Act 1217 )
AP file photo
Data breach
Businesses, banks and similar entities that suffer a data breach must notify their customers within 45 days of the breach being discovered, instead of simply providing notification "without unreasonable delay." (House Enrolled Act 1351 )
AP file photo
Dementia training
Home health aides who provide care to individuals with symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or a similar cognitive disorder must complete at least six hours of dementia care training within 60 days of hire. Current home health aides with at least one year of experience must participate in at least three hours of dementia training. (Senate Enrolled Act 353 )
Joe Ruffalo, file, The Times
Double voting
The penalty for fraudulently casting more than one ballot in the same election is set at up to 2½ in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The penalty does not apply to individuals casting a valid replacement ballot as permitted by law. (Senate Enrolled Act 328 )
AP file photo
Expungement
Individuals charged with crimes who either are acquitted following a trial or the charges are dismissed will have their court records automatically expunged within 60 days of disposition, unless the county prosecutor requests a one-year expungement delay. Any non-prosecution of criminal charges within 180 days following an arrest must be expunged immediately. (Senate Enrolled Act 182 )
Jonathan Miano, file, The Times
Foreign land purchases
Foreign business entities are barred from purchasing Indiana agricultural or timber land, with certain exceptions. Businesses organized under Russian law or controlled by Russian nationals are prohibited from acquiring any real estate in Indiana. (Senate Enrolled Act 388 )
AP file photo
Health officers
The Indiana Department of Health no longer is entitled to remove a local health officer on the basis of intemperance. Health officers still may be removed for failing to collect vital statistics, follow rules, keep records, make reports, respond to official inquires or for neglect of official duty. (House Enrolled Act 1169 )
Provided
Handguns
Adults age 18 and up legally entitled to possess a handgun are not obligated to obtain a state permit to carry a handgun in public. Indiana carry permits remain available for out-of-state reciprocity purposes. Handguns continue to be prohibited in schools, courthouses, and any residence or business that chooses to bar handguns. (House Enrolled Act 1296 )
AP file photo
Housing shortage
A 13-member Housing Task Force is directed to study issues relating to housing and housing shortages in Indiana. The task force must submit recommendations for policy changes to the General Assembly and the governor no later than Nov. 1. (House Enrolled Act 1306 )
Tony V. Martin, file, The Times
Hunting
The holder of an archery hunting permit is allowed to use a bow and arrow or a crossbow. Previously, crossbow hunters were required to obtain a separate license. (Senate Enrolled Act 186 )
Times file photo
Inmate calls
The in-state rate for telephone calls placed by inmates at Indiana Department of Correction facilities drops to 12 cents per minute from 24 cents per minute. County jail telephone rates are capped at 21 cents per minute statewide, instead of ranging from 22 cents per minute to $4.70 per minute. (House Enrolled Act 1181 )
Times file photo
Lead testing
Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, doctors must offer a blood lead screening test to the parents of children between nine months and six years old if the child has not previously been tested for lead poisoning. Parents are not required to have their children tested for lead. (House Enrolled Act 1313 )
John J. Watkins, file, The Times
Low-level felons
Judges once again may sentence level 6 felony offenders to state prisons operated by the Indiana Department of Correction, replacing a mandate that individuals found guilty of minor felony crimes only serve their six-month to 2 1/2-year sentences in county jails. (House Enrolled Act 1004 )
Provided by Indiana State Prison
Lowell investment
The town of Lowell is authorized to segregate its recent water utility sale proceeds from other town funds, contract with an investment adviser, and deploy the funds in most kinds of investments offering higher returns than fixed-income securities, except corporate stock and other equity securities. (House Enrolled Act 1011 )
Kale Wilk, file, The Times
Medicaid
Pregnant individuals whose family incomes are less than 208% of the federal poverty level are entitled to receive low- or no-cost health coverage through Indiana Medicaid for the duration of their pregnancy, and up to 12 months after giving birth. (House Enrolled Act 1140 )
AP file photo
Nuclear power
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission is directed to adopt rules by July 1, 2023, permitting small modular nuclear reactors to be used to generate electricity in the Hoosier State. The law does not mandate any utilities switch to nuclear power but opens the door by putting in place the regulations that would guide its development and use. (Senate Enrolled Act 271 )
AP file photo
Pregnant inmates
Restraints used on a prison inmate in her second or third trimester of pregnancy need to be the least restrictive restraints necessary. A pregnant inmate must be unrestrained while in labor, delivering a baby and during the immediate post-delivery period, unless she is an immediate danger to herself or others, or a substantial flight risk. (House Enrolled Act 1294 )
Connor Burge, file, The Times
Property tax
The $3,000 property tax deduction for mortgaged property is eliminated beginning Jan. 1, 2023, and the homestead deduction is increased to $48,000 from $45,000. The senior citizen tax deduction may be claimed on homes worth up to $240,000, instead of a maximum of $200,000. (House Enrolled Act 1260 )
Photo provided
Public comment
School boards must allow any person physically present at a school board meeting to address the board if the person is interested in doing so in accordance with the board’s public comment rules, including any time limits. Boards still can take "reasonable steps to maintain order in a meeting," including "removal of any person who is willfully disruptive of the meeting." (House Enrolled Act 1130 )
Dan Carden, file, The Times
Rape
The definition of rape is expanded to include a person who disregards the other person's attempts to physically, verbally, or by other visible conduct refuse the person's sexual acts. Rape in Indiana also consists of the use of force, or imminent threat of force, to compel sexual conduct; sex with a person unaware sexual conduct is occurring; or sex with a person unable to consent to sex due to mental disability. (House Enrolled Act 1079 )
Times file photo
Semiquincentennial
A 23-member commission is established to organize events and commemorations across the state celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026. (Senate Enrolled Act 12 )
Library of Congress
Simulated child porn
The production, distribution, possession or viewing of a video or image depicting obscene sexual conduct involving a person who appears to be less than 18 years old — even if the person is over 18, or doesn’t exist — is the legal equivalent of child exploitation, possession of child pornography and similar felony crimes. (House Enrolled Act 1363 )
John J. Watkins, file, The Times
State fossil
The mastodon is designated as the official fossil of Indiana. Dozens of mastodon fossils have been found throughout Indiana, including the bones of at least five mastodons now held by the Indiana State Museum that were discovered in 2005 by workers digging a pond in the Porter County town of Hebron. (House Enrolled Act 1013 )
Provided
Tax cuts
The utility receipts tax, a 1.46% charge paid by businesses and consumers on a portion of their electricity, natural gas, water, steam, sewage and telephone bills, is eliminated July 1. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, the state income tax rate drops to 3.15% from 3.23%, with the possibility of future reductions to 2.9%. (House Enrolled Act 1002 )
Doug Ross, file, The Times
Tourism
The definition of "agritourism" is expanded beyond agricultural activities to include camping, canoeing, kayaking, river tubing and winter sports activities. An agritourism participant release form may be signed electronically, instead of only on paper. (Senate Enrolled Act 343 )
Connor Burge, file, The Times
Township trustees
A township trustee who fails to perform the duties of his or her office is subject to removal by court order if the removal is endorsed by the township board, county commissioners and county council, and other conditions are met. (Senate Enrolled Act 304 )
Dan Carden, The Times
Trans sports
All children assigned male at birth are barred from participating in any elementary, middle or high school athletics designated as a "girls" or "female" sport — no matter the child's gender identity or physical characteristics. (House Enrolled Act 1041 )
John J. Watkins, file, The Times
Tribal law enforcement
A police officer employed by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi in South Bend may exercise law enforcement authority anywhere in the state, so long as the officer meets the standards of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy and the tribe consents to statewide police powers. (Senate Enrolled Act 347 )
Turn signal
A mandate that drivers signal all turns or lane changes at least 200 feet ahead of time, or 300 feet if the vehicle is traveling in excess of 50 mph, is deleted on Jan. 1, 2023, in favor of a requirement that motorists signal all turns and lane changes "a reasonable time" before completing them. (House Enrolled Act 1167 )
John J. Watkins, file, The Times
University gifts
Public and private colleges and universities in Indiana must report to the state, and disclose on their website, all gifts from foreign entities that already must be reported to the federal government upon receipt. (Senate Enrolled Act 388 )
Kale Wilk, file, The Times
Vaping taxes
A tax of 15% is imposed on the wholesale price of closed system cartridges used for vaping. Under a 2021 law, the tax rate was scheduled to be 25%. An additional tax of 40 cents per ounce is assessed on alternative nicotine products, such as electronic cigarettes. (Senate Enrolled Act 382 )
Richard Vogel, file, Associated Press
Virtual instruction
Public schools may only hold up to three student-directed virtual instruction days during the 180-day school year absent extraordinary circumstances and a waiver approved by the Indiana Department of Education. (House Enrolled Act 1093 )
John Luke, file, The Times
Youth ag
A public school or school corporation may purchase up to $10,000 in food each year from a youth agricultural program, up from the former annual maximum of $7,500. (House Enrolled Act 1320 )
AP file photo
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Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/elections/former-aides-encouraging-mitch-daniels-to-run-again-for-indiana-governor/article_e385916b-d21e-594f-b5b2-f69fb690b092.html | 2022-08-16T23:47:23 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/elections/former-aides-encouraging-mitch-daniels-to-run-again-for-indiana-governor/article_e385916b-d21e-594f-b5b2-f69fb690b092.html |
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — DeKalb County firefighters are working a gas leak in Doraville that prompted kids to have to be picked up early at a nearby Montessori school Tuesday.
DeKalb Fire said the gas leak happened at 3121 Raymond Drive. The nearby school was let out early due to the gas leak, according to DeKalb Fire. Officials did not specify which school in the area had an early release.
Fire officials said Raymond Drive continues to be shut down. Raymond Drive is located off of Chestnut Drive near Buford Highway NE.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/doraville/gas-leak-doraville-raymond-drive/85-9703ba18-d9dc-45be-a0e4-0a8c5a11a288 | 2022-08-16T23:52:49 | 1 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/doraville/gas-leak-doraville-raymond-drive/85-9703ba18-d9dc-45be-a0e4-0a8c5a11a288 |
An argument over the score at a Lancaster youth football game led to the deadly shooting of coach Michael Hickmon Saturday night, according to to witness reports to police.
Yaqub Salik Talib, 39, is accused of murder in the fatal shooting on Saturday night of 43-year-old Hickmon, police in Lancaster said.
According to witnesses, Talib pulled out a gun and shot Hickmon multiple times after a disagreement between the opposing coaching staff of two youth football teams over calls made by the officiating crew led to a physical fight, police said.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Hickmon had gunshot wounds to his chest, back and forearm. He was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. No other injuries were reported, police said.
Police said that after the shooting, Yaqub Talib fled, taking the firearm with him.
Talib’s attorney, Clark Birdsall, said his client “regrets the tragic loss of life but self-surrendered this morning so that he may have the chance to say his side of the story.” Birdsall declined to elaborate on what Talib’s side of the story is.
Police said they were still investigating the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Several people, including children, were present when Hickmon was killed, police said.
According to records obtained by NBC 5, Talib has a criminal past in Dallas and Collin counties that includes charges of drug possession, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, abandoning a child/negligence, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and assault.
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Talib is the brother of Aqib Talib, a former NFL cornerback and five-time Pro Bowler who announced his retirement in 2020 and is expected to be a contributor on Prime Video's "Thursday Night Football" broadcast beginning Sept. 15.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Detective Senad Deranjic at 972-218-2756 or Crime Stoppers at 1-877-373-8477. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/argument-over-score-led-to-deadly-shooting-of-lancaster-youth-football-coach-affidavit-says/3049912/ | 2022-08-16T23:52:51 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/argument-over-score-led-to-deadly-shooting-of-lancaster-youth-football-coach-affidavit-says/3049912/ |
Some Duncanville residents have reported a foam-like substance appearing in their faucets, hoses, and drains. This comes after a recent structure fire at the 1700 block of Beaver Creek Place, which has since been contained.
According to city officials, fire departments from Dallas, Cedar Hill, Desoto, and Ovilla assisted Duncanville Fire Department in combatting the blaze. The Duncanville Emergency Response Team (CERT) was also on hand to support firefighters.
A non-toxic, Class A fire suppression foam compound was used to extinguish the blaze, which is not harmful. The compound is commonly used against combustibles such as wood, paper, and brush, officials say.
The reports of the foam-like substance started just hours after the fire was extinguished. Immediately after receiving reports from residents, Duncanville Water Utilities began flushing the system to remove the foam substance, which looks similar to dish soap.
The foam likely entered the water supply due to backflow caused as the fire engines worked to contain the large fire, officials say.
What can Duncanville residents do if they encounter the foam-like substance overnight?
- Allow water to run from the faucet for 10 minutes or until water is clear.
- Allow water to run for 10 minutes upon starting your day in the morning to flush any residual compound from your system.
- If you continue to see the foam-like substance in your water, report the issue by calling (972) 780-5010 during business hours or the after-hours customer service line at (972) 780-4959 or (972) 780-5012.
The structure fire that caused this issue is under investigation by the Duncanville Fire Marshall.
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For updates, visit Duncanville.com. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/foam-like-substance-in-neighborhood-water-supply-reported-in-duncanville/3049684/ | 2022-08-16T23:53:12 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/foam-like-substance-in-neighborhood-water-supply-reported-in-duncanville/3049684/ |
La Bodega is one of Bishop Arts' newest businesses.
"I always knew I wanted it to be small," owner Skye McDaniel said. "I always knew I wanted it to be in Oak Cliff because I grew up here."
The bright, colorful space is the realization of McDaniel's decadelong dream to open her own business. The simple menu includes organic rotisserie chicken, salads and sandwiches.
"I want the menu to be delicious," McDaniel said. "It's food for everyone and it's healthy and good."
For McDaniel, it took something bad to make the leap to good.
"2020 was just a really scary year for all of us," McDaniel said. "How should you come out on the other side of this? Like, you shouldn't be the same person."
McDaniel was working at a Deep Ellum coffee shop when the pandemic hit and she was without a job. She had a little success day trading, which reframed her thinking about risk and reward.
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"So for me, that space is what pushed me to do this because I had time to evaluate how important it was, whether or not I should take a risk," McDaniel said she started thinking during her pandemic downtime. "Like a do-over. If I wanted to go back in, what would it look like? And of course, it would look like working for myself."
McDaniel took some lessons from the pandemic. Her business is grab-and-go to limit pandemic risk of being closed if there was another shutdown.
La Bodega's business hours are unconventional, too; closed Friday and Saturday.
"They're funky, yeah," McDaniel said. "Because this is my neighborhood and my community. I didn't make it for weekenders."
McDaniel hopes her brand of healthy comfort food makes those neighbors/customers feel what was put into it.
"I want them to notice how much love and care has been put into it," McDaniel said.
La Bodega is located at 208 West 8th Street in Dallas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/pandemic-pushed-oak-cliff-native-to-open-neighborhood-business/3049889/ | 2022-08-16T23:53:25 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/pandemic-pushed-oak-cliff-native-to-open-neighborhood-business/3049889/ |
A firefighter in Rockwall County, who was also an organ donor, is being remembered for his commitment to service and passion to help others.
Clifford Haney,45, was taken off life support on Tuesday. He sustained major injuries after he fell while at his off-duty job as an HVAC tech last week. Over the weekend, Haney was declared dead but remained on a ventilator.
“You know he was handsome, just professional, healthy, good man, you just wouldn’t think that would happen to Clifford Haney,” said Martin Ramirez, director of operations for Rockwall County EMS. "Clifford was just a humble servant, he served quietly and he was so grateful to do his job in Rockwall County."
“I couldn’t believe it, I was in disbelief that something like that could happen to one of our personnel. We always take risks on the job and we would have never thought that somebody that wasn’t actually on duty would have that kind of risk, but we know that life is precious and things can happen any time," said Lyle Lombard, director of public safety for the city of Fate.
Friends, family and fellow first responders of Haney said their goodbyes to the well-known firefighter who was initially being treated at Texas Health Presbyterian in Plano.
He spent the last five years as a volunteer firefighter in the city of Fate. Over the years he's worked at other agencies in North Texas including Rockwall Fire Department and McLendon-Chisholm.
Tuesday morning an 'Honor Walk' was held for Haney as he was moved to the operating room to have his organs removed for donation.
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"This just goes to show the kind of person Clifford was, that he’s still giving, he gave to our community everyday and he still continues to do that with his donations of his organs," said Lombard.
"We have yet to lay him to rest and he’s still upstairs right now, giving one more time. We just feel that he’s a person that’s how he was. He was going to give to the very end," said Martinez.
According to Southwest Transplant Alliance, an organization that works with families in the organ donation process, Haney's heart and liver already have recipients.
"Clifford is a hero in every sense of the word," said Kelli James, director of marketing communications with Southwest Transplant Alliance "The fact that he had made the decision and register as an organ, eye and tissue donor is incredible so others will get the chance the opportunity to have a second chance of life."
Plano Firefighters helped honor Haney by hoisting an American flag at the top of two ladder trucks along W. Parker Rd. as an escort led the ambulance that transported his body to the medical examiner's office.
"At the core, very giving of himself and it was all about everyone else and I know that he’s looking down right now saying, ‘This is a bit much,’ but it really isn’t. I think everything that we do for him from now until the day we lay him to rest is going to be very well deserved," said Martinez.
If you're interested in becoming an organ donor click here. People can also register at the Department of Motor Vehicles, DMV, when they get their license. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/rockwall-county-firefighter-who-died-from-off-duty-accident-helps-others-as-organ-donor/3049821/ | 2022-08-16T23:53:31 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/rockwall-county-firefighter-who-died-from-off-duty-accident-helps-others-as-organ-donor/3049821/ |
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Schools in Alabama have received an unprecedented amount of money to combat learning loss and other impacts of the pandemic over the past two years.
The state got roughly $3.14 billion through three rounds of federal funding.
“That’s an enormous amount of money. That’s about 12 times the amount of Title I federal funding a school would get in a year,” A+ Education Partnership President Mark Dixon said.
Dixon is tracking how the schools are spending that money. The website organizes data on districts’ spending proposals.
“Every district had to submit a plan, and I think some are talking about their plans more publicly than others, and that’s part of the purpose of the tracker is to make this very easy to understand,” Dixon said.
Proposals have focused on academic support, facility improvements, summer and after-school programs and technology, among other categories.
Jefferson County Schools Superintendent Walter Gonsoulin says they received about $101 million. He says the money has gone toward reversing learning loss, mental health support and new laptops.
“This allowed us to really try some of the initiatives that we wanted to do, like the one-to-one, our virtual academy that we opened. Initiatives that we had in place or were thinking about doing but not necessarily having the funding for it,” Gonsoulin said.
So far according to the spending tracker, 6% of the American Rescue Plan funding for schools has been allocated in Alabama. Schools have until September 2024 to spend those funds.
But there are efforts in Congress to give some of that money to parents.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville cosponsored the RECOVER Act, which would allow states and local school districts to give unspent COVID relief money to low-income parents in the form of scholarships.
Gonsoulin says in his district, he doesn’t foresee any money being left on the table.
“With the needs that we have and the plans that we have in place, we plan on spending every penny of those monies,” Gonsoulin said.
One of the strings attached to this money is that schools have to take community input, so be sure to check out your school district’s website for its spending plan if you have any comments. | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/a-look-at-how-alabama-schools-are-spending-covid-relief-funds/ | 2022-08-16T23:54:00 | 0 | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/a-look-at-how-alabama-schools-are-spending-covid-relief-funds/ |
Dallas County officials traded accusations Tuesday about a backlog of felony cases, a surge in jail inmates and rising cost for taxpayers.
Commissioners John Wiley Price and J. J. Koch claim felon court judges are to blame for the backlog.
“It is certainly within the power of those judges to decrease those extraordinary costs on the public and they continue to refuse to do so,” Koch said.
Koch wants to reduce the $18,000 bonus judges receive from commissioners.
“It’s within our discretion to rescind that supplement,” Koch said. “We can zero out every criminal felony judge. We can zero out individual judges.”
Price also blamed judges for a backlog of around 2,000 felony cases and the current count of 6,300 jail inmates, which he said is about 1,000 more inmates than a year ago and nearly 2,000 more than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Price said the cost of operating the jail has risen from around $8 million.
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“That jail might cost us $12 million and with 6,300 it is going to be more,” Price said. “We're picking up that tab again and all it takes is a little creativity at work.”
Dallas County Sheriff Marion Brown who runs the jail said the jail situation is not entirely to blame on judges.
“No, the idea that it is just solely the judges is not correct,” Brown said.
State prisons and mental health facilities not taking inmates is a major problem, Brown said.
“If they’re not receiving people then those people remain with us. We’re the repository and the number continues to grow and grow,” Brown said. “When the mental health facilities in the state are not receiving people, then we have to manage that population as well.”
Inmate Eric Longoria is an example of this situation. The 40-year-old inmate was found incompetent to stand trial soon after a July 23, 2017, stand-off with police for which he faces several counts of aggravated assault on a public servant.
Longoria has been in and out of state hospitals since 2017 and was returned to the Dallas County Jail on March 6, 2020, for another competency hearing. A new medical evaluation was ordered in May 2022, but Longoria remains at the Dallas County Jail.
Brown could not comment on Longoria’s case but said mental health care is available in the Dallas County Jail. However, judges may find a defendant unfit for trial despite that care and then order transfers that are delayed.
“And then have that time come and go and they are still in our facility. That is not uncommon,” Brown said.
Jail detention officers have complained about staffing issues and benefits issues.
And the jail building itself has limitations.
Portions of the building at more than 40 years old. A briefing for Dallas County Commissioners Tuesday said the average lifecycle of a jail is 50 years and parts of the Dallas County Jail cannot be updated to modern standards.
“We have to periodically evaluate and review what our systems look like and see if we are up to date.
Brown said she supports plans approved by commissioners Tuesday to evaluate jail facilities for inmates.
“All of our citizens should be concerned about it because these are loved ones, they have families,” Brown said.
Most inmates in the Dallas County Jail are awaiting trial, are considered innocent and have not been convicted of any crime. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/accusations-traded-on-backlog-of-felony-cases-in-dallas-county/3049976/ | 2022-08-16T23:57:18 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/accusations-traded-on-backlog-of-felony-cases-in-dallas-county/3049976/ |
Appell lawsuit that accused UFD founders of fraud, theft and misuse of funds settled
A lawsuit against United Fiber and Data founder Bill Hynes and other company founders has been resolved in a private settlement, according to Hynes and an attorney involved in the case.
The case - United Fiber and Data LLC vs. William Hynes - has reached an unreleased settlement, marking the end of a suit in the long saga of litigation surrounding Hynes, Live and United Fiber and Data.
The case related to the late philanthropist Louis J. Appell Jr.'s involvement with the telecommunications company. Appell offered the initial $7 million loan to start UFD in 2012, later adding another $19.25 million between 2013 and 2016.
UFD installed a 340-mile-long fiber-optic line from New York City to Ashburn, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, D.C., and promised to create 300-plus jobs in Pennsylvania and generate more than $2 billion through state tax revenue in 30 years.
Lawsuit background:United Fiber & Data, Appell family say CEO Bill Hynes used funds as ‘personal piggy bank’
More on UFD and Hynes:Live from 'S--- Towne': Rock stars returned to build better York, but promises unfulfilled
But the promises have gone unfulfilled.
The lawsuit claimed that by 2017 the support of the family was "the only thing that allowed the Company to remain operational and to continue its efforts to complete construction of the line."
Louis Appell III owns a 26.18% stake in UFD, according to court documents.
The initial lawsuit, United Fiber and Data LLC vs. William Hynes, is against Hynes, Live bandmates Chad Taylor, Chad Gracey and Patrick Dahlheimer, Think Loud Holdings LLC and BKS Capital LLC, an organization of which Hynes is a manager.
In the complaint, Appell III and the Powder Mill Foundation, the family's charity, accused the parties of causing "substantial harm" to United Fiber and Data.
Among the complaints, Appell alleged he was kept in the dark about unlawful conduct, the defendants made false reports on the progress of the company and used company assets to "finance lifestyles that they could not otherwise afford."
That lawsuit was officially settled at the beginning of August.
"My team's effort was successful and we have reached an amicable settlement with United Fiber & Data and Louis J. Appell III, ending all litigation," Hynes wrote in a statement. "I am happy that the matter with UFD is behind me. In whatever form UFD ultimately takes, I look forward to it becoming a successful and profitable company."
BKS Capital and Think Loud Holdings, consisting of Hynes, Taylor, Gracey and Dahlheimer, sued Appell in 2020, but withdrew the case after one day. Appell sued the following week.
"United Fiber & Data, LLC and Mr. Louis Appell, III confirm that all outstanding claims against Mr. Hynes and his related entity have been mutually, fully and fairly settled, including all allegations of fraud, theft of funds and related allegations of wrongdoing alleged in the Complaint that United Fiber & Data, LLC and Mr. Appell filed," Appell's lawyer Justin Tomevi wrote in a statement. "Both parties are satisfied with the result of the business resolution and look forward to seeing UFD become a profitable company."
Jack Panyard is a reporter at the York Daily Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at jpanyard@ydr.com, 717-850-5935 or on Twitter @JackPanyard. | https://www.ydr.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/lawsuit-louis-appell-iii-filed-against-ufd-founders-settled/65395849007/ | 2022-08-16T23:57:32 | 0 | https://www.ydr.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/lawsuit-louis-appell-iii-filed-against-ufd-founders-settled/65395849007/ |
SoulCycle will close up to a quarter of its studios across the U.S., including six reportedly in the New York City area, amid adjustments related to the pandemic, the fitness company said Tuesday.
SoulCycle, known for intense indoor cycling classes and a devoted following, will close up to 20 of its 83 studios in the weeks ahead, a spokesman told NBC Washington.
“As riders continue to return to in-studio classes, there have been many shifts as a result of the pandemic. Some of these shifts have been based on geography, and therefore we are naturally reevaluating our portfolio of studios to assess whether there is an opportunity to right-size in certain markets. This will allow us to continue to provide riders with the SoulCycle experience they know and love,” he said in a statement.
In addition to the NYC closures, studios are set to close in D.C., Chicago and Southern California, among other markets.
According to Business Insider, here are the six locations in the NYC area that will be closing:
- Grand Central (Manhattan)
- SoHo (Manhattan)
- West 92nd Street (Manhattan)
- Park Slope (Brooklyn)
- Woodbury (Long Island - Nassau County)
- Water Mill (Long Island - Hamptons) | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/soulcycle-to-close-up-to-20-studios-including-6-in-nyc-area/3827254/ | 2022-08-16T23:59:05 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/soulcycle-to-close-up-to-20-studios-including-6-in-nyc-area/3827254/ |
AUSTIN, Texas — Pablo Vegas, a utility executive who lives in Ohio, will be the new leader of Texas’ main power grid operator, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. ERCOT’s board announced Vegas’ hiring Tuesday.
Vegas becomes ERCOT’s first permanent chief executive in 16 months, since former CEO Bill Magness was fired in the aftermath of the February 2021 power grid disaster, when a strong winter storm left millions of Texans without power for days after freezing temperatures shut down natural gas facilities and power plants, which rely on each other to keep electricity flowing. Hundreds of people died.
Following the deadly blackouts, Texas politicians lambasted ERCOT’s board of directors because some of them did not reside in Texas, and many of them resigned. At the time, a bipartisan chorus from state lawmakers expressed frustration and disbelief that many ERCOT board members, despite extensive energy industry expertise, lived outside the state.
Now, a non-Texan will lead the state’s main power grid.
Who is Pablo Vegas?
Vegas is executive vice president of NiSource Inc., and group president of the company’s utilities. The Indiana-based NiSource delivers natural gas to approximately 3.1 million customers across six states and electricity to about 470,000 customers in Indiana, according to the company.
Vegas, who was born in Peru and worked as president and chief operating officer for transmission company AEP Texas from 2008 to 2010, did not reply to questions emailed from The Texas Tribune on Monday. Vegas held a variety of other senior executive roles at AEP in addition to his two-year stint at the company’s Texas branch. AEP, which provides power to more than 5 million customers across 11 states, is based in Columbus, Ohio, where Vegas lives with his family.
KHOU 11 energy analyst Ed Hirs said Vegas is coming into ERCOT, sort of like a manager of a baseball team, in the middle of a transaction.
"He hasn't set up the players, he hasn't set up the contracts, but he's being charged with executing the plan," Hirs said.
Hirs said ERCOT's power plan has yet to be finalized. Demand is growing faster than supply, the generation fleet is old and the shortage of transmission lines has already cost Texans $2.1 billion this year, double of all last year.
"Pablo Vegas is a very experienced, very accomplished utility executive, but he's coming into a situation that's a real mess and he's not going to be able to fix it by himself," Hirs said.
ERCOT, though, is betting big that Vegas can lead. His five-year contract comes with a $990,000 annual base salary. With incentives, the new CEO could rake in more than $2 million a year.
Brad Jones, ERCOT’s interim CEO who was hired to the temporary position after the catastrophe but did not plan to stay on the job this long, earns $500,000 annually, according to his contract, which the Tribune obtained through an open records request. Jones will also receive a one-time lump sum of $169,640 when he receives his final paycheck from ERCOT.
It is unclear how much independence Vegas and ERCOT will have in running the power grid. Gov. Greg Abbott, who is running for reelection in November, has closely controlled how — and whether — ERCOT communicates grid information with the public since the 2021 winter storm, which has become a major campaign issue for his Democratic opponent, Beto O’Rourke.
Current and former energy company directors, power grid employees, longtime energy analysts and consultants have told the Tribune that Abbott also has had an unprecedented amount of power over the ERCOT CEO search and vetoed at least one candidate — a former executive of a large Texas electricity provider and former chief executive of a California utility — while his favored candidate, the chief executive of the Austin-based Lower Colorado River Authority, repeatedly turned down the job.
Vegas has not contributed money to Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick or House Speaker Dade Phelan, according to a Tribune analysis of campaign finance records.
Eric Lau contributed reporting to this story.
This story comes from our KHOU 11 News partners at The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans - and engages with them - about public policy, politics, government, and statewide issues. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas/ercot-names-new-ceo/285-854dd379-e22b-42cc-9897-611641323f9a | 2022-08-16T23:59:34 | 1 | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/texas/ercot-names-new-ceo/285-854dd379-e22b-42cc-9897-611641323f9a |
Bodies found in Macomb Township identified as mother, daughter
Mark Hicks
The Detroit News
Two bodies found at a Macomb County home this month have been identified as a mother and daughter, authorities announced Tuesday.
The causes of death for Krishnaveni Kasiperumal, 40, and Samyukta Arvind, 8, were not yet known, the Macomb County Sheriff's Office said in a statement on Twitter.
Results of further testing from the county medical examiner were not expected for at least three months, according to the post.
The Sheriff's Office reported deputies were called Aug. 3 to a home on Downing Street near 22 Mile in Macomb Township for a welfare check.
They entered the residence and found the two bodies.
Investigators have said there were no apparent signs of foul play. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2022/08/16/bodies-found-macomb-township-identified-mother-daughter/10343748002/ | 2022-08-17T00:05:27 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2022/08/16/bodies-found-macomb-township-identified-mother-daughter/10343748002/ |
State officials probe rise in E. coli cases in 3 counties
Michigan health officials announced Tuesday they are investigating a recent rise in illnesses related to E. coli bacteria in parts of the state.
The spike was reported by health departments in Kent, Ottawa and Oakland counties, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said.
The department has received reports of 98 cases of E. coli infections this month, compared to 20 reported during the same period in 2021, according to a release.
"The current investigation is in the early stages," officials said. "Laboratory results have linked some of these cases to each other."
"Shiga toxin-producing" E. coli, or STEC, has been connected to the recent increase in infections, state officials said Tuesday.
“While reports of E. coli illness typically increase during the warmer summer months, this significant jump in cases is alarming,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive.
“This is a reminder to make sure to follow best practices when it comes to hand hygiene and food handling to prevent these kinds of foodborne illness. If you are experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection like cramping and diarrhea (or gastrointestinal distress), especially if they are severe, make sure to let your health care provider know.”
Symptoms can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and fever. These appear three to four days after exposure but can appear in one day or as long as 10 days, according to the state health department.
Experts say symptoms often improve within five to seven days. Some infections are mild, but others can be severe or even life-threatening.
To prevent infections, health officials advise proper hand hygiene and food handling practices, including:
- Washing hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, or using an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol before and after handling food; after using the bathroom or changing a diaper; after contact with animals or their environments.
- Marinating foods in the refrigerator, not on the counter or outdoors.
- Never placing cooked food on a plate that previously held raw meat, poultry, seafood or eggs.
- Never letting raw meat, poultry, eggs or cooked food sit at room temperature more than two hours before putting them in the refrigerator or freezer (one hour when the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Cooking meats thoroughly. Ground beef and meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rinsing fruits and vegetables well under running water.
- Avoiding raw milk, unpasteurized dairy products and unpasteurized juices, such as fresh apple cider.
- Avoiding swallowing water when swimming or playing in lakes, ponds, streams, swimming pools and backyard “kiddie” pools. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/08/16/state-officials-probe-rise-e-coli-cases-3-counties/10343471002/ | 2022-08-17T00:05:33 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/08/16/state-officials-probe-rise-e-coli-cases-3-counties/10343471002/ |
BLOOMINGTON — Plans to construct a 4,800-foot bike trail along Easy and Bunn streets between Lafayette Street and Hamilton Road starting in 2024 may rest on the approval of a $1.2 million state transportation grant.
On Tuesday, city officials and representatives of Hutchison Engineering, who are designing the trail, held an open house-style meeting to gather public feedback on the project.
Bloomington Public Works Director Kevin Kothe said this is one of the last steps in the first phase of the planning process for the proposed Constitution Trail extension. Public feedback then will be compiled into a project development report, which will become part of the public record.
Former Alderman Robert Fazzini said he is glad to see a project that has been talked about for over 20 years finally move forward.
"We're a bike-riding community so I think it's a positive," Fazzini said.
Although several attendees were in support of another biking option for the city, some residents voice concerns about the accumulation of litter and possible illegal activities.
Some attendees suggested checking the police activity in the area to ensure public safety. The addition of blue light emergency phones along the trail also was suggested.
But before the project can move forward, the city must be awarded an Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program grant. This state program offers funding for community-based projects that expand travel choices and improve the cultural, historic, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the state's transportation infrastructure, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation website.
The preliminary cost estimate for the Constitution Trail is $1.5 million. The grant would cover $1.2 million of the project's costs, and the city would commit the other $300,000.
"At this point, we don't have construction money in the city's budget for this," Kothe said.
Kothe added that he will be applying for the grant in September and the city should know this spring whether it is one of the recipients. Even if the project is rejected for grant funding, the city can reapply next year.
If the city is awarded the ITEP grant, construction could start this spring and finish in November.
Engineering analysis with drawings, maps and aerial photography presented during the hearing will be available for public inspection on the city of Bloomington's website.
Bloomington Public Works Director Kevin Kothe (second from right) and representatives from Hutchison Engineering show members of the public their plans for the 4,800-foot Constitution Trail extension running from Hamilton Road to Lafayette Street. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/bloomington-officials-hope-state-grant-will-advance-1-5m-bike-extension/article_d06aa644-1db4-11ed-9c2d-efb0d15b75e9.html | 2022-08-17T00:06:48 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/bloomington-officials-hope-state-grant-will-advance-1-5m-bike-extension/article_d06aa644-1db4-11ed-9c2d-efb0d15b75e9.html |
Owners Katrina and Kyle Reinhard opened the café in 2017. Kyle is originally from Indiana and Katrina was born and raised in Gridley; they both grew up with families that catered family-style food, and provided baking and potlucks for many different events. There is a German history in their recipes as well.
Originally, the couple felt a calling to open a bed and breakfast. When those plans fell through, they realized their love for coffee and serving the community. A family friend was looking to sell the location that now houses the restaurant.
"Our goal is to serve the local community, serve local products and provide a place of peace, rest and quality," Kyle Reinhard said. "We've never put out a product we're not happy with ourselves."
The Common Grounds building dates back to the 1950s. It used to be the City Service Station, which was a fuel and car service. It has also housed a welding business, a hot dog and ice cream shop and a private fuel/excavator business.
The Reinhards undertook a six-month remodel in early 2017, removing walls and ceilings and adding concrete walls and inserts. Katrina Reinhard envisioned and executed the café's aesthetic design, and the couple added a community room.
"My favorite thing is the customers and getting to see people locally, knowing the community happenings, being involved. We have a unique variety of customers," Katrina Reinhard said. "It's been really fun to bring high-quality stuff to a small town where they're used to gas station coffee. There's a huge desire in the community for locally produced to-go meals."
Common Grounds has had an ongoing partnership with Gobena Coffee in Gridley, a company that sells a variety of fresh-roasted coffee and equipment, with proceeds going to Lifesong Orphans in Gridley.
The popular menu items include cinnamon rolls, coconut cream pie and peanut butter pie. They also offer a weekly soup, quiche and coffee drink special.
The café sells individual slices and whole pies that they make over the stove. They also make soup from scratch and use ingredients that they grow in their garden or they use local products. They rotate their menu every season, but keep a couple things the same for the regulars.
The café also hosts a pizza and ice cream two nights a week during the summer.
"Customers enjoy coming here because the staff is extremely consistent and our values are consistent. People on Facebook say they love the smiles," Kyle Reinhard said. "We have high-quality products and we're like a family; we're not going to rush you out the door. The goal is not to make a million dollars, it's to serve the community."
Managers Jaden Hornsby and Sarah Endress are also a big part of the operation. Hornsby went to culinary school at Illinois Central College and is involved in the baking and decorating, while Endress helps with the whole sale side of the business.
The Reinhards plan to expand the café in the near future.
Common Grounds Cafe & Pie Shop is open 6 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday; and closed Sunday and Monday. They offer indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, drive-thru and online ordering services.
Today’s top pics: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star of Nipsey Hussle and more
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/watch-now-community-pie-keys-to-success-at-common-grounds-caf-pie-shop/article_3eeeff1c-1d7d-11ed-a10c-33447e2088d0.html | 2022-08-17T00:06:54 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/watch-now-community-pie-keys-to-success-at-common-grounds-caf-pie-shop/article_3eeeff1c-1d7d-11ed-a10c-33447e2088d0.html |
SEATTLE — Link light rail riders should prepare for two weeks of service impacts while Sound Transit makes improvements to the Columbia City Station.
Between Aug. 19 and Sept. 1, the southbound track at the station will close to enable work on the platform. Work includes removing existing platform tiles and replacing them after establishing a new surface they will reliably adhere to, which will eliminate tripping hazards and safety risks from cracking tiles, according to Sound Transit.
The southbound platform at Columbia City Station will be closed during this two-week period. Passengers traveling in either direction will board on the northbound platform. The direction that the trains arrive at the station will be the direction the trains will continue.
Between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., every other train leaving Northgate and heading south will stop at Stadium Station. Passengers continuing south will have to wait another 10 minutes before boarding the next train south.
To avoid having to transfer at Stadium Station, passengers should check the head signs on the trains and board the ones whose destination is Angle Lake.
Early morning and late evening trains will run every 20 minutes between Northgate and Angle Lake.
Sound Transit personnel will be available at Stadium Station to assist passengers.
Passengers should keep a close eye on Rider Alerts. Throughout the two-week period, Sound Transit will provide frequent communication with passengers.
The work on Columbia City Station is the first in a series of "Future Ready" projects that will help Sound Transit prepare to more than double the length of the light rail system in the next few years.
Later Future Ready work will include electrical work to minimize future Downtown Seattle disruptions and work to replace more than three miles of overhead wire between Rainier Beach and Tukwila International Boulevard stations to increase reliable train performance. | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/seattle/link-light-rail-disruptions-southbound-platform-at-columbia-city-station-to-close-for-two-weeks/281-b997bb66-c2ac-4ea8-ad2d-6b11b0e4ee1f | 2022-08-17T00:12:38 | 1 | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/seattle/link-light-rail-disruptions-southbound-platform-at-columbia-city-station-to-close-for-two-weeks/281-b997bb66-c2ac-4ea8-ad2d-6b11b0e4ee1f |
Trine University has invested about $500,000 in equipment to increase technical training opportunities to help expand the skilled workforce pool for northeast Indiana employers.
Jacob Bradshaw will be the inaugural instructor and program lead for The Trine Center for Technical Training, which will be based in Angola, but also will offer online and on-site classes, a Tuesday news release said.
The center will provide coursework in areas including industrial maintenance and automation. Participants can earn associate and specialist certification from the Smart Automation Certification Alliance as well as certification in areas such as project management, Lean Six Sigma-Green Belt, Certified Quality Engineer and network management.
The technical training center features state-of-the-art training equipment by Amatrol, Fanuc and Rockwell Automation, the news release said. Students will develop skills in areas w machine operation, hydraulics, pneumatics, relay controls, sensors and smart manufacturing.
“The Trine Center for Technical Training serves individuals looking to skill up, high schools looking to equip their students with industry-relevant training and businesses seeking to provide workers the latest skills,” said a statement from Jason Blume, executive director of Trine innovation 1.
“It’s a win all the way around,” Blume said. “Workers can advance their careers and seamlessly move in to additional educational opportunities, including certificates and degree programs. Businesses can provide employees with critical skills, and our region benefits from trained personnel who earn higher wages.”
The equipment purchased allows for mobility, allowing Trine to “nimbly meet the needs” of its training partners, Blume said in an email response about logistics.
About 50 students are already enrolled in the program. Also, four Trine University engineering students will complete certificates through the technical center for a specific controls class, he said.
Bradshaw previously was as associate professor in advanced automation and robotics technology at Ivy Tech Community College, where he oversaw curriculum for the system statewide.
His industrial experience included roles at Automation Engineering in Fort Wayne, T.I. Automotive in Ossian, Wabash Electric Supply in Bluffton and Crane Composites in Goshen, the news release said.
“Jacob is the perfect fit for this role,” Blume said. “He brings a wealth of hands-on work in industry as well as extensive experience in training industrial workers for next-level jobs.”
As a business executive, Bradshaw has owned and operated BCI Automation, an automation contracting and consulting company in North Manchester, with his father for the past three years. Bradshaw will soon complete a master of science degree in engineering management from Trine.
“I’m excited to lead this new venture and look forward to collaborating with area businesses and institutions to help area workers develop and enhance skills that are crucial for industry,” Bradshaw said. | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/trine-launches-technical-training-center/article_0199f7ac-1da5-11ed-b59f-7b077a9a6500.html | 2022-08-17T00:14:29 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/local/trine-launches-technical-training-center/article_0199f7ac-1da5-11ed-b59f-7b077a9a6500.html |
New details in case against alleged smugglers involved in deadly crash in Santa Teresa
LAS CRUCES – Federal prosecutors leveled federal charges against a man accused of wrecking a car full of migrants at the outset of a Border Patrol chase.
Julio Garcia Rascon, 19, of Ciudad Juárez, is charged with two counts of homicide by vehicle, 10 counts of great bodily injury by vehicle, and one count of reckless driving. Police believe Garcia Rascon piloted a 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV carrying 12 other passengers on July 27. They believe Garcia Rascon rolled the vehicle in Santa Teresa, killing Jorge Garcia-Vazquez, 24, and Guadalupe Cruze-Vazquez, 18, from Mexico.
Garcia Rascon is also now charged with smuggling illegal aliens in federal court. Twenty-one-year-old Jorge Garcia Rascon — Julio's brother — is charged with conspiracy to smuggle illegal aliens resulting in death.
A chase in southern Doña Ana County
According to an affidavit penned by NMPS Patrol Officer Tommy Vigil, the incident began around 5 a.m. July 27 when a Border Patrol agent tried to pull over the Tahoe eastbound near Mile Marker 146 on State Road 9 in New Mexico. The chase lasted about 10 minutes, according to testimony in a recent hearing. However, the Border Patrol agent, having decided to end the pursuit, lost sight of the Tahoe as the chase neared the Santa Teresa city limits.
Vigil wrote that shortly after the agent lost sight of the Tahoe, a large dust cloud rose in the distance. The Tahoe had crashed into an electric pole near Airport Road and McNutt Road intersection. EMTs transported Garcia Rascon and nine passengers to an El Paso hospital via helicopter and ambulance, according to an NMSP news release.
The Mexican Consulate in El Paso said in a statement following the crash that nine of the people injured were Mexican citizens.
Federal affidavit adds new details
An affidavit written by Homeland Security Investigator Robert Boone said that Jorge Garcia Rascon's — who had been sitting in the passenger seat of the Tahoe and who was uninjured after the crash — spoke to Border Patrol after the incident. Jorge said he and Julio were born in Mexico and came to the United States without documentation.
Jorge told Border Patrol that he and Julio were transporting migrants to Albuquerque as part of a smuggling ring. Juilo told Border Patrol he was making $500 per migrant while his brother was working off a debt he owed to the smuggling crew. Additionally, Julio told Border Patrol that his employers told him not to stop if law enforcement tried to pull them over.
After the incident, a New Mexico judge ordered Julio Garcia Rascon must stay in jail until his case was resolved. In a hearing, 3rd Judicial District Judge Richard Jacquez found Julio to be dangerous and found that no conditions of release would protect the public.
Keep reading:
- Trial starts in jail brawl that left one dead
- Las Cruces man charged after FBI says he threatened to burn down NMSU
- DASO identifies Upham Girl as Wichita runaway
Justin Garcia covers crime, courts and public safety. He can be reached via email at JEGarcia@lcsun-news.com. | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/new-details-in-case-against-alleged-smuggler-involved-in-deadly-crash-in-santa-teresa/65406841007/ | 2022-08-17T00:14:43 | 1 | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/new-details-in-case-against-alleged-smuggler-involved-in-deadly-crash-in-santa-teresa/65406841007/ |
Heinrich and Luján talk infrastructure, border business in southern New Mexico
Senators visit Berino and Santa Teresa to get project updates
SANTA TERESA – As vital as drinking water and sewage systems are to constituents, telling a compelling story about infrastructure can easily lose them in a fog of budget figures and construction language.
While visiting the site of a future arsenic treatment plant in one of southern New Mexico's unincorporated communities Tuesday, U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich said seeing the importance is as easy as turning on a tap.
"You have not only reliable clean water but then you have backup for when the old well goes down," he said during a visit to the Lower Rio Grande Public Water Works Authority office in Berino, 20 miles south of Las Cruces.
With his fellow Democrat, U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Heinrich made three infrastructure-related visits to the county for briefings on rural water systems, the county jetport and economic development for the border region including ports of entry in El Paso and Santa Teresa along with Ciudad Juárez and the state of Chihuahua in Mexico.
In the morning, the senators donned hard hats to visit an arsenic filtration system site under construction in Berino, next to the water authority's office near Stern Drive. Officials from the Department of Agriculture's rural development section, which offers grants and loans for local economic development, infrastructure and other essential services — as well as county officials and state legislators — were also present for the visit.
The authority is a governmental entity formed in 2006 serving over a dozen colonias across 100 square miles south of Las Cruces, helping to connect 5,000 residents of unincorporated communities in the southern part of the county to water service.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Joe Biden last year directs an anticipated $355 million over five years for New Mexico water infrastructure.
Besides the arsenic treatment plant, the Lower Rio Grande PWWA is drilling a new groundwater well in Berino, building a wastewater project in the Mesquite-Brazito area and partnering with Doña Ana County on sewage treatment and building capacity to regionalize local water systems in the event of a failure in one service area.
"When you have one piece of infrastructure that goes down, it can be absolutely devastating," Heinrich said, "and tying all of this together and finding the funding to make these things work ― it's a game changer."
Jetport to build new hangars
Later in the morning, Heinrich appeared with county and state officials at the Doña Ana County International Jetport in Santa Teresa to tout a $2.25 million federal investment in the expansion of the jetport facilities, which will help fund infrastructure to support 11 new private hangars, according to diagrams presented. The senator and other officials participated in a short groundbreaking ceremony.
“We want this port of entry to have everything that checks the boxes for all of the commercial partners who may want to be here,” Heinrich said. “I think having aviation really serve this port of entry well is an incredibly important piece of that.”
Last month, the Doña Ana County Commission approved a land lease contract between the county and Burrell Aviation Doña Ana, LLC, the first such agreement at the jetport, to build the capacity to receive and distribute air cargo.
“Having aviation resources — on top of rail, on top of the trucking resources — we really create an intermodal system that attracts commerce from all over the southern borderlands,” Heinrich said.
Jetport Manager Bill Provance said the new hangars would expand the capacity at the jetport by about 126 aircraft.
Heinrich also said he supported federal funds for a feasibility study to look at the future development of the port of entry.
Luján joined the event late but gave some remarks praising the development of the jetport and Heinrich’s work to secure funding.
Border port of import
From there, the senators went to the offices of the Border Industrial Association, six miles north of the Santa Teresa Port of Entry, for a luncheon and briefing from state and local economic development officials as well as a counterpart from Chihuahua on economic development efforts and funding needs in an area with one of the busiest ports of entry at the U.S.-Mexico border.
BIA president Jerry Pacheco updated the gathering on extensive growth in the region's industrial base along with year-over-year growth in international exports of 46 percent. Industrial space is now at a premium in Santa Teresa, to the point that a second natural gas line had to be installed and Pacheco said local wastewater systems need to quadruple in capacity to support the growth.
"The need is dire," Doña Ana County Manager Fernando Macias said of the funding that would be required at state and federal levels to support current and expected expansion as the Union Pacific railroad builds out its facilities and the Santa Teresa Port of Entry increases its importance in the region with facilities for oversized and heavier industrial cargo as well as hazardous materials.
The scope of the investments required, Macias warned, would extend beyond what could be financed locally and through state capital outlay.
A new highway connecting the port area to Sunland Park and El Paso is in the design phase, with costs estimated up to $50 million with the aim of reducing commute times. New Mexico Border Authority president Marco Grajeda said an aggressive construction schedule is planned with the hope of opening the route by the end of 2024.
Luján said he was surprised at the extent of the investments needed and vowed to enhance his attention on the region while calling more communication between the coalition of trade and government entities and federal agencies. "More collaboration is needed. … More coordination will bring about better outcomes," he said.
Heinrich said the next five years would be pivotal for New Mexico's ports, especially at Santa Teresa, to position themselves as an alternative to crowded conditions at El Paso's port as well as political fallout from Texas governor Greg Abbott's policy earlier in 2022 of requiring additional inspections of commercial vehicles crossing the border, a move that clogged highways and damaged trade into Texas.
Keep reading:
- Las Cruces man charged after FBI says he threatened to burn down NMSU
- El Paso Water plans legal action following New Mexico fines for sewage discharge
- Highway 82 tunnel maintenance to be completed Friday near Cloudcroft
Algernon D'Ammassa can be reached at 575-541-5451, adammassa@lcsun-news.com or @AlgernonWrites on Twitter.
Michael McDevitt is a city and county government reporter for the Sun-News. He can be reached at 575-202-3205, mmcdevitt@lcsun-news.com or @MikeMcDTweets on Twitter. | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/new-mexico/2022/08/16/senators-heinrich-and-lujan-talk-infrastructure-in-southern-new-mexico/65406409007/ | 2022-08-17T00:14:49 | 1 | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/new-mexico/2022/08/16/senators-heinrich-and-lujan-talk-infrastructure-in-southern-new-mexico/65406409007/ |
ARIZONA, USA — Republican Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and backers of universal school vouchers took a victory lap Tuesday over legislation the Republican-controlled Legislature enacted in June giving the state the nation's most expansive voucher system, and he also used the time to attack backers of public schools who are trying to block the measure at the ballot.
Ducey touted the signature bill he signed in July that gives all Arizona parents the ability to take state money that would go to their local public school and instead use it for private school tuition or other education costs.
The governor had a ceremonial signing at a central Phoenix Christian school that already gets large benefits from the state's tax credit donation programs and existing school voucher program.
But he celebrated the new universal voucher expansion, which has been a key goal during his eight years in office. A similar law with enrollment caps that passed in 2017 was rejected by 2/3 of the state's voters the following year, but Ducey did not stop his voucher expansion plans.
“Over the last eight years, and it is taken all of eight years, we have taken action to ensure that more kids have this opportunity by positioning Arizona as the national leader in school choice,” Ducey told several hundred students, lawmakers and voucher supporters gathered at Phoenix Christian Preparatory School.
"Our kids will no longer be stuck in underperforming schools. We’re unlocking more educational options for them and unlocking their full potential," he said. “There’s no one-size fits all model to education."
But he acknowledged the fight ahead, as public school advocates try again to block the voucher law that is set to take effect on Sept. 24. And he slammed them for their efforts.
“Misguided special interest groups will try to tell you that this legislation will diminish our public education system,” he said. “They couldn’t be more wrong. Public education means educating the public.”
Beth Lewis, executive director of Save Our Schools Arizona, the grassroots groups made up mainly of public school parents, teachers and concerned citizens who blocked the 2017 law, said it is Ducey who is wrong. The group needs slightly more than 118,000 valid signatures to keep the voucher law from taking effect. It would remain blocked until voters can weigh in in November 2024.
"Gov. Ducey's dog and pony show about universal vouchers underscores his agenda to defund public education," Lewis said. “The reality is Arizona students all across the state have happily started public school. And parents expect those schools to be funded and they do not want vouchers."
Lewis and other public school advocates say vouchers take money from an already underfunded public school system, while proponents herald the program as letting parents choose the best education for their children.
Lewis contends the new voucher law could take away more than the new school funding lawmakers added this year, which neared $1 billion in ongoing and one-time cash.
Under the new law, an estimated 60,000 private students and about 38,000 being homeschooled would immediately be eligible to take up to $7,000 per year. Some of this currently get vouchers and many already get money from groups like School Tuition Organizations that funnel tax credits to students.
All 1.1 million students who attend traditional district and charter schools would also qualify to leave their public schools and get money to go to private schools. About a third already qualify, but only about 12,000 students statewide now use the system.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/arizona-governor-doug-ducey-touts-school-voucher-plan-slams-opponents/75-465f78a7-a0aa-430a-a381-00787db7cea5 | 2022-08-17T00:14:59 | 0 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/arizona-governor-doug-ducey-touts-school-voucher-plan-slams-opponents/75-465f78a7-a0aa-430a-a381-00787db7cea5 |
MESA, Ariz. — A City of Mesa program that offers rental assistance to low-income families will start accepting applications Wednesday.
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program helps families in need obtain affordable, decent, sanitary and safe housing in Mesa.
You can pre-apply for the program online starting Wednesday, Aug. 17 at 10 a.m. through Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 5 p.m.
The city said this will be a fully web-based pre-application process. Paper applications are available only for those who require special assistance.
The HCV program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and provides rental assistance to low-income families by contracting with private owners and subsidizing a portion of the family's monthly rent.
The family's portion of the rent is based on their income and generally amounts to no more than 30% of their adjusted monthly income on rent, depending on the cost of the unit they select, officials said.
How to apply
Applicants can fill out the form on any computer, tablet or smartphone with internet access, including free computer access at the following locations:
- Mesa Public Library, Main Library - 64 E. 1st St.
- Mesa Public Library, Dobson Ranch - 2425 S. Dobson Road
- MesaCAN - 635 E. Broadway (Second floor)
- Paz de Cristo - 424 W. Broadway
- Mesa Public Library, Red Mountain - 635 N. Power Road
- Save the Family = 125 E University Drive
An application kiosk will also be available at the City of Mesa Housing Authority, 200 S. Center St., Building 1, on a first-come, first-serve basis. It's open Monday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The city said it will randomly place 4,000 pre-applications on the waiting list by a lottery system. Pre-applicants not selected will be notified and will have to apply at another time.
For any questions on the application process, contact the City of Mesa Housing Authority at 480-644-3536 or email hcvwaitinglist@mesaaz.gov.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today. | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/how-to-apply-for-mesa-rental-assistance-program/75-271d312e-89dc-4c02-ac0f-20ed332ce75e | 2022-08-17T00:15:05 | 1 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/how-to-apply-for-mesa-rental-assistance-program/75-271d312e-89dc-4c02-ac0f-20ed332ce75e |
CALIFORNIA, USA — This story was originally published by CalMatters.
Southern California water districts are grappling with what the fallout could look like if supplies from a critical source — the rapidly drying Colorado River — are cut next year.
The US Bureau of Reclamation warned at a U.S. Senate hearing in mid-June that seven western states had 60 days to voluntarily reach a deal: Cut Colorado River water use by 2 to 4 million acre-feet in 2023 or face federally-mandated cuts instead. It’s a massive amount — at least seven times more than Nevada is entitled to in a year.
As of Monday morning, no agreement had been struck, said Robert Schettler, a spokesperson for the Imperial Irrigation District, which receives the vast majority of the river’s water in California. “Progress has been made and we remain hopeful and work continues,” he said in an email.
The Department of the Interior is expected today to address the status of the negotiations, the drought and future Colorado River conditions.
The verdict is especially high-stakes for Southern California, where the river provides a quarter or a third of the region’s water supply. Seven Southern California counties rely on the river for water and hydroelectric power, and 600,000 acres of farmland draw on it for irrigation.
“Our region, our economy, our way of life in Southern California depends on the Colorado River,” said Bill Hasencamp, Colorado River resources manager for the giant Metropolitan Water District, which supplies imported water to 19 million people. “It is vitally important.”
But climate change, drought and overallocation have been threatening the Colorado River’s supply for decades, even as the amount consumed and lost through reservoir evaporation regularly outpaces its natural flows.
And now, with the two major reservoirs — Lake Mead and Lake Powell — at historically low levels, more needs to be done, warned Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton at a June U.S. Senate hearing. “The system is at a tipping point,” Touton said in her written statement.
What exactly “more” means — and what that means for California — is still under negotiation. Here’s what to know:
California gets the most of any state
The Colorado River and its tributaries cut through seven U.S. states and Mexico, from the river’s headwaters in Colorado and Wyoming to where it trickles toward — though rarely actually reaches — the Gulf of California.
A century of deals, acts and legal decisions have carved up 15 million acre-feet between Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico in the Upper Basin, and California, Arizona and Nevada in the Lower Basin. Native American tribes hold rights to this water as well, and a 1944 treaty set aside another 1.5 million acre feet for Mexico.
The biggest straw, by far, is California’s. The state is entitled to 4.4 million acre-feet, or more than a third of the river’s natural flow. It’s enough water to supply more than 13 million Southern California households for a year. In the Lower Basin, Arizona comes in next with about 2.8 million acre feet.
Most of California’s Colorado River water is used for irrigation. The Imperial Irrigation District gets as much as 3.1 million acre feet a year, mostly supplied to nearly 475,000 acres of farmland and a handful of communities in the southeastern corner of California. Another major recipient is the Metropolitan Water District, which last year diverted roughly 1.1 million acre feet of water from the Colorado River system.
“(For) 81 years now, it’s been the backbone of our supply,” Metropolitan’s Hasencamp said. “Today, on average, about half of our imported water is from the Colorado River.”
In 2019, the Upper and Lower Basin states struck agreements laying out who gets cut in the event of water shortages. The Lower Basin’s Drought Contingency Plan, in place through 2026, allowed for cuts to California’s deliveries for the first time.
Arizona and Nevada, with more junior rights than the Golden State’s, start seeing cutbacks when water levels in Lake Mead drop to 1,090 feet; California’s cutbacks start when water levels hit between 1,040 and 1,045 feet. Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, is projected to drop to less than 1,040 feet by the close of 2022.
“California — by virtue of the legal structures — is in a relatively good position on paper,” said John Fleck, director of University of New Mexico’s Water Resources Program and author of two books about the Colorado River.
“But the problem is that ‘on paper’ is not the reality now.”
The river’s reservoirs are at a historic low
Drought has been parching the Colorado River basin for more than two decades. Even in years with close to normal levels of precipitation, less runoff is reaching the river — the result of increasing temperatures and drier soils drinking up the flows as climate change continues.
“We’re just not seeing the benefits that we used to that we once had to surface water, streamflow runoff and reservoir storage,” Christopher Harris, executive director of the Colorado River Board of California, said at a June meeting of the State Water Resources Control Board. “It’s definitely impacted the reservoir system significantly.”
Last summer, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation called the first level-one shortage for the Lower Basin states, prompting cuts to Arizona, Nevada and Mexico — but not California.
At the end of July, levels in Lake Mead, according to NASA, “stand at their lowest since April 1937, when the reservoir was still being filled for the first time.”
The Colorado River is critical to the Imperial Valley
For the Imperial Irrigation District, the Colorado River is “our only source of water. We live in a desert. And that’s it,” Schettler said. Now, he said, “the onus is to generate a lot of water, rather quickly.”
Schettler laid out two strategies for conservation: The first, he said, is farms conserving more with use of efficient strategies such as drip irrigation. “That may take some money, and then it may take a little while to get that water.”
Another possibility is fallowing fields — paying farmers to leave fields dry. It’s a strategy that the Imperial Irrigation District has employed in the past, but it’s unpopular, Schettler said.
“Fallowing is like the F word around here,” he said.
Southern Californians could face more restrictions
The cuts could have ripple effects across the entire state’s water portfolio. Southern California’s other sources of imported water from the northern half of the state are low, too, after several years of drought.
“What do we do when both systems are stressed out? And how do we manage ourselves?” Harris asked at a state water board meeting in June.
For the region served by the Metropolitan Water District, which has characterized the negotiations as difficult, “every type of water user could be affected, including urban and agricultural uses,” according to a recent district board presentation.
The Metropolitan Water District has already implemented unprecedented watering restrictions for the 6 million Southern Californians who rely on the parched State Water Project, which funnels water from Northern California south and this year reduced deliveries to just 5% of requested supplies.
The district warned customers that receive Colorado River water that they could face restrictions as soon as next year.
“The areas that get water from the Colorado River are also going to have to conserve more,” Hasencamp said. “We’re going to have to, because we know we’re going to get less water in the future than we’re getting today. How much less we don’t know.”
California has seen federal cuts before — about 20 years ago, after water users failed to reach an agreement to cut back by 800,000 acre feet and stay within its 4.4 million acre-foot allocation.
“Importantly for the future of water agreements in the basin, despite predictions of doom, California absorbed the reductions with only modest impact,” reported Fleck and Anne Castle, a former assistant secretary for water and science at the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Eventually California water systems hashed out a deal. And now, Metropolitan’s Hasencamp said, it’s time to do so again.
“I think we’re going to be in a permanent state of shortage into the future. And the question isn’t ‘if’ anymore,” he said: It’s how big. “How big of a shortage are we going to have to endure? How big of cutbacks are we going to have to live with?’” | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/california/calmatters/colorado-river-water-california/509-79594d3c-727b-408f-b3bd-c7520efbf341 | 2022-08-17T00:16:00 | 0 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/california/calmatters/colorado-river-water-california/509-79594d3c-727b-408f-b3bd-c7520efbf341 |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Mayor Darrell Steinberg said Sacramento began tracking its greenhouse gas emissions in 2005, and it's dropped 34% as of 2022.
But Steinberg said Tuesday he wants emissions to drop another 80% by 2030, so how does he plan to make it happen?
The 400 city-owned buildings encompassing 4.7 million square feet receive their energy from the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) -- 63% of which is carbon-free.
"For $1 million a year we can substitute out all that natural gas, all the nonrenewable energy and we can get to 100% renewable supply from SMUD for everything the city does," Steinberg said. "We can find $1 million to ensure we are 100% for city-owned and operated buildings."
Background
The recently announced acceleration in Sacramento's climate action push comes shortly after Gov. Gavin Newsom sent California lawmakers his list of climate actions he wants them to take.
Steinberg shares the same 100% green gas emissions ambition not only with state lawmakers, but with SMUD as well.
The utilities company has initiatives like SMUD’s Greenergy program which allows customers to opt into 100% carbon-free electricity.
City officials like Steinberg share the same goal as SMUD -- getting to 0% greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/steinberg-makes-climate-push-after-gov-newsom-calls-on-statewide-action/103-d3116627-35b5-4cce-bc09-827085ea6a8e | 2022-08-17T00:16:06 | 0 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/steinberg-makes-climate-push-after-gov-newsom-calls-on-statewide-action/103-d3116627-35b5-4cce-bc09-827085ea6a8e |
WATERLOO — The last person has been sentenced in a 2018 argument that left one person with a gunshot wound to the hip.
Last week, Austin James Wood, 23, was sentenced to up to 10 years in prison on a charge of intimidation with a weapon.
Authorities allege Wood was with a group who armed themselves with a .22-caliber rifle and a .25-caliber pistol when they went to accompany an acquaintance who was gathering belongings from an ex-girlfriend at a Langley Road apartment in March 2018, according to court records.
A dispute broke out between those involved, and Abraham Rivas-Ortiz was shot in the hip. He was treated and released, according to police.
Two others charged in the incident were sentenced earlier.
Nicholas Charles Bish was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of intimidation with a weapon, willful injury causing bodily injury and going armed in July 2019. Sean Lester Bish was sentenced to five years in prison suspended to probation on a charges of intimidation and carrying weapons in January 2020. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/final-person-sentenced-in-2018-shooting/article_133e7164-3683-53dd-be0a-27d4c6cd72ca.html | 2022-08-17T00:19:21 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/final-person-sentenced-in-2018-shooting/article_133e7164-3683-53dd-be0a-27d4c6cd72ca.html |
CEDAR FALLS — The University of Northern Iowa Family Business Center has announced the addition of BrownWinick Law Firm, Foster Group and RSM as its Founding Partners.
“These three organizations are leaders in their industries,” Dan Beenken, director of the center, said in a news release. “With their support, we are able to provide families with additional resources.”
The center offers a suite of services to family-owned businesses in Iowa and surrounding states. It functions with a membership model and hosts multiple virtual and in-person events each year, including the Iowa Family Business Conference.
“We’ve really enjoyed our partnership with the UNI Family Business Center thus far, and we see immense value in sitting down with Iowa business families to discuss difficult topics that involve legal support like succession planning.” said Ryan Bratvold, business development manager at BrownWinick Law Firm. “Sometimes business leaders don’t know what they don’t know, and we’re here to help them every step of the way.”
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Founding Partners will provide industry insights to families each program year.
“Family businesses face unique challenges and opportunities,” said Matt Abels, chief practice officer at Foster Group. “The Team at Foster Group helps families steward and sustain their generational wealth, equipping heirs to help ensure their family legacy is a blessing rather than a burden. We’re excited to be a Founding Partner of the Family Business Center to help advance the vision of families across Iowa.”
The center also provides consulting, peer learning and networking opportunities to members.
“RSM’s vision is to be first-choice advisors to middle market leaders globally and partnering with the Family Business Center is a fantastic way to execute on our vision right here in Iowa,” said Rod Foster, partner at RSM. “We look forward to being part of the center’s advisor ecosystem and seeing what Iowa-based family owned businesses can accomplish in the future.”
“We are grateful for the support of our Founding Partners,” said Beenken. “I am excited to see how these organizations add to the FBC’s offerings to Iowa’s family-owned businesses.”
Learn more about the UNI FBC at unifamilybusinesscenter.com. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/education/university-of-northern-iowa-family-business-center-announces-partnership-with-three-firms/article_075cb66e-4856-570b-af21-47dcfb25ff32.html | 2022-08-17T00:19:27 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/education/university-of-northern-iowa-family-business-center-announces-partnership-with-three-firms/article_075cb66e-4856-570b-af21-47dcfb25ff32.html |
DALLAS — American Airlines flights could be getting faster. It just might take a while.
The Fort Worth-based company on Tuesday announced it has agreed to purchase up to 20 Boom Supersonic Overture aircraft, with an option to buy an additional 40.
The Overture is expected to fly twice as fast as today's commercial aircraft, over water. The examples American Airlines included were flights from Miami to London in under five hours and Los Angeles to Honolulu in three.
The only catch: You'll have to wait.
The Overture isn't expected to be passenger-ready until 2029. Boom Supersonic in July released the final design for the Overture, and production is expected to be completed by 2025.
American has paid a non-refundable deposit on 20 Overture aircraft, according to its announcement Tuesday. The airline's agreement with Boom Supersonic incudes the option buy an additional 40 Overture aircraft.
Boom Supersonice has previously reported commercial orders with United Airlines and Japan Airlines, for a total of 70 aircraft.
The Overture is expected to hold 65-80 passengers and have a range of 4,250 nautical miles. The aircraft will have four wing-mounted engines that can power the plane up to speeds of Mach 1.7 over water and just under Mach 1 over land.
The aircraft is also expected to have a noise reduction system on takeoff.
“Aviation has not seen a giant leap in decades. Overture is revolutionary in its design, and it will fundamentally change how we think about distance,” Boom Supersonic CEO Blake Scholl said in a company press release last month.
The Allied Pilots Association, the union representing American Airlines pilots, criticized the announcement, saying it was "obviously intended to grab headlines."
"While future aircraft deliveries are always welcome news, right now we’re frankly more interested in seeing American Airlines correct its serious operational problems," the union statement said.
In the short-term, American is juggling shifting flight schedules. The airline is cutting 16% of flights from its schedule in November, amounting to about 31,000 flights total, according to a CNN report. The November cutbacks follow cuts of 2% for September and October. | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/aviation-american-airlines-orders-up-to-20-boom-supersonic-overture-aircraft-heres-what-theyll-feature/287-4cfae1e3-9d6a-45e7-9fe6-d9b5a2ed6817 | 2022-08-17T00:19:35 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/aviation-american-airlines-orders-up-to-20-boom-supersonic-overture-aircraft-heres-what-theyll-feature/287-4cfae1e3-9d6a-45e7-9fe6-d9b5a2ed6817 |
ARKANSAS, USA — This brother-and-sister duo did a fantastic job at reeling in two giant 'monsters.'
While on a late-night fishing trip on Lake Conway last week, Logan and Haylee Applegate caught two giant flathead fish.
The fish caught by Logan topped 50 pounds, and the fish caught by Haylee was equally as large weighing somewhere between 45-50 pounds as well.
The two huge hauls caught the attention of Arkansas Game and Fish who celebrated the siblings on their latest catch.
The two siblings are always outside with their family whenever they get the opportunity away from work.
➤ Sign up now for THV11's Lunchbox newsletter. It sends you the top trending stories, the latest forecast, and more straight to your email! | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/brother-and-sister-giant-catch/91-69fa2a68-f48d-4186-a4bd-eb2bb4b34bd3 | 2022-08-17T00:19:41 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/brother-and-sister-giant-catch/91-69fa2a68-f48d-4186-a4bd-eb2bb4b34bd3 |
KELLER, Texas — The debate over books in Texas school libraries continues.
The Keller Independent School District is now at the center of the debate after it sent an email to principals and librarians, telling them to pull 42 books that have been challenged by parents.
The list of 42 books includes the Bible and "Anne Frank's Diary: The Graphic Adaption." The full list can be seen here.
In a statement, the district said the books were being removed in order to review them under new policies that were approved by the school board during a meeting on Aug. 8.
The new policies have to do with how Keller ISD acquires and reviews instructional materials and library books, according to the district.
The district said all the books were challenged by parents over the last year.
"Books that meet the new guidelines will be returned to the libraries as soon as it is confirmed they comply with the new policy," the district said in a statement.
Most of the books on the list had previously been approved to stay in school libraries after being reviewed by a committee.
The book debate became the hot topic at a board meeting back in March as parents turned the public comment portion into a venue to voice concerns over books in libraries.
One parent said at the March meeting, "We are fed up with pornographic materials that are still in our libraries accessible to children." | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/north-texas-school-district-keller-isd-pulls-books-review-bible-anne-franks-diary/287-dab5c5c6-5750-43c8-a2cc-d253ea00b2b7 | 2022-08-17T00:19:47 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/north-texas-school-district-keller-isd-pulls-books-review-bible-anne-franks-diary/287-dab5c5c6-5750-43c8-a2cc-d253ea00b2b7 |
HOUSTON — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is re-deploying a program to alert law enforcement of suspicious activity at schools as kids are heading back into the classroom.
It’s called iWatch Texas and it’s designed to provide law enforcement with quick tips to respond to danger.
It’s one way Gov. Abbott is responding to concerns about school safety as many are asking for more to be done.
A new PSA calling to attention features a Texas icon.
“I’m Chuck Norris. I love bringing bad guys to justice," the PSA starts.
Governor Abbott is pulling out all the stops to convince Texans that he’s responding to concerns of school safety.
“Law enforcement can’t stop the bad guys if they don’t know who they are,” Chuck Norris said in the 30-second video.
RELATED: These Houston-area school districts still haven't spent state's grant money for security upgrades
iWatch Texas, which was first launched in 2018, is a website, phone app and service that allows Texans to report suspicious activity to DPS.
“We’ve heard plenty of these words, what we need now in Texas are actions,” Sen. Roland Gutierrez said.
Gutierrez, a state senator and Democrat, who represents Uvalde, says the repurposed push for iWatch Texas is a distraction from the real issues at hand when it comes to school safety.
“Let’s be real clear our kids are no safer today in any school in Texas than we were on May 24th because Greg Abbott has refused to call a special session to raise an age limit from 18 to 21,” Gutierrez said.
Educators are also pushing back against the measure being promoted by a celebrity.
“Why do we need iWatch necessarily over 911?" asked Zeph Capo, the president of the American Federation of Teachers said. “ I mean frankly we already have an emergency system that is supposed to get directly to people.”
Abbott says “parents, teachers, and students deserve to feel safe and secure returning to school this fall.”
Something Senator Gutierrez says is not happening by resisting legislative changes on guns.
Locally, some schools already have a system in place to report suspicious activity.
Houston ISD utilizes the See Something Say Something app and has a 24-hour tip-line where students can make reports at 713-892-7777. | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/iwatch-texas-chuck-norris-psa/285-7762c249-cbb1-4204-9728-c23a79aad7b0 | 2022-08-17T00:19:53 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/iwatch-texas-chuck-norris-psa/285-7762c249-cbb1-4204-9728-c23a79aad7b0 |
Richmond Police Chief Gerald Smith repeated on Tuesday his belief that two men now in federal custody were planning a mass shooting at a fireworks celebration at Dogwood Dell amphitheater, but said he didn't know if anyone under him at the department had told him Dogwood Dell was the location.
Smith misspoke at a July 6 news conference in which he erroneously said an anonymous tipster specified Dogwood Dell as a targeted location for a mass shooting on July Fourth. While the tipster told police two men were planning a shooting at a Fourth of July event, police have since said no specific location was provided.
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The changing information from police — and lack so far of any criminal charges related to a planned shooting — have prompted questions in the Richmond community about what the police actually found as they investigated a tip the chief said helped them foil a mass shooting plot.
Asked in an interview Tuesday if he regretted making the mistake at his July 6 news conference, Smith said, "If I misspoke in that situation, I misspoke in that situation."
Smith said there was lost focus on the great work police did in preventing a mass shooting.
“The tipster gave us information that there was a plot afoot for a mass shooting in Richmond, Virginia, on the Fourth of July at a large event," Smith said.
“The Dogwood Dell — when you look at the facts, when you look the investigation, and my 30 years’ experience in policing, we’ve come to the conclusion that – I came to the conclusion – that it was the Dogwood Dell. And you take all those things … together, you come up with the Dogwood Dell. It’s something that we do in policing every day.”
Smith said the only other large event on July Fourth in Richmond was a Richmond Squirrels minor-league baseball game, and he ruled that out because the team plays here regularly, not just on July Fourth.
Smith invited the Times-Dispatch to interview him on Tuesday at his office. The interview comes after scrutiny of Smith's account in the community: A prosecutor said in court there was no evidence Dogwood Dell was a specific target of the plot, and U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., last week called on Richmond officials to provide better clarity.
The set-up in Smith's office was unusual for an interview: Two city communications employees used film equipment and lighting and made a video of Smith, saying it was for internal purposes.
They declined to give their names.
John F. Hayes Jr., the deputy police chief over patrol operations, sat silently over a reporter's shoulder during the interview.
Hayes said he didn't want to participate in the interview. Smith wouldn't say why he invited Hayes to sit in the room.
“He wants to be here. I think he can be here," Smith said.
Another deputy chief, Victoria Pearson, later entered the room to observe the interview.
Taking questions, Smith said he didn't know if the original phone tip about the alleged plot was entirely in Spanish, but said a Spanish interpreter assisted police. He said the phone call from the tipster about overhearing a conversation was not recorded with audio.
“It was recorded into one of our police reports," he said. Police are aware of the tipster's identity and have followed up with the person, Smith said.
The two suspects in federal custody, both immigrants from Guatemela, have not been charged with anything related to a mass shooting plot; one faces a firearm charge and the second an immigration charge. But federal authorities are continuing to investigate.
Asked if detectives were able to corroborate - beyond what the tipster overheard - that there was a plot for a mass shooting, Smith said "there's a lot of corroborating evidence that points to that there was going to be a mass shooting."
But he specifically referenced firearms and ammunition seized from the suspects' residence. He said police did not find any witness to corroborate the tipster's information about a mass shooting plot.
"But what the tipster gave was credible information, and once again, you know, we're off the topic here, that what we did was prevent a mass shooting in the city of Richmond," Smith said.
Speaking further about the situation, Smith said: “In my 30 years plus experience, the Dogwood Dell was the most likely target.”
Asked he regretted not phrasing it that way at his July 6 news conference - where he erroneously claimed the tipster said Dogwood Dell was the target - Smith said, “I think it’s the same thing. I still believe that the Dogwood Dell was the target.”
Asked if any detective or officer below him told him Dogwood Dell was believed to be a target, Smith said, “As the chief here, if they did, they did. But I don’t know that they did or not.”
The Richmond Times-Dispatch has a Freedom of Information Act request pending related to the chief's press conference July 6. Smith said the department's general counsel will decide what information or records should be redacted from public release in response to that request.
He acknowledged the department had "issues and challenges" with "crisis communications."
The public had no knowledge of any alleged mass shooting until Smith and Mayor Levar Stoney held their July 6 news conference to discuss it. Smith said the FBI and other federal law enforcement partners were invited to the July 6 news conference but opted not to attend. | https://richmond.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/chief-says-experience-told-him-dogwood-dell-was-shooting-target/article_c4a54549-2978-599f-9d0d-9336b78027d6.html | 2022-08-17T00:20:21 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/chief-says-experience-told-him-dogwood-dell-was-shooting-target/article_c4a54549-2978-599f-9d0d-9336b78027d6.html |
Hopewell authorities were searching for a man who went into the water from the Route 10 bridge on Tuesday.
Police in a statement said they responded to a report of a man who appeared as if he was planning to jump at 1:43 p.m.
Emergency crews responded and searched the area. Identification of the man is not being released until the next-of-kin has been notified.
Anyone with information about the incident asked to call police at (804) 541-2284. | https://richmond.com/news/local/search-underway-for-man-who-went-into-water-in-hopewell/article_527c2588-3ed6-53a4-85a7-0e0813d1f404.html | 2022-08-17T00:20:27 | 1 | https://richmond.com/news/local/search-underway-for-man-who-went-into-water-in-hopewell/article_527c2588-3ed6-53a4-85a7-0e0813d1f404.html |
A day after appearing in a Richmond City court for allegedly failing to pay his rent, Douglas Hernandez on Tuesday led dozens of his neighbors in a protest against the potential evictions they are facing.
In interviews and speeches, many of them described how they owe thousands in back rent for their apartments at The Communities in Southwood, a nearly 1,300-unit apartment complex that's home to more than 3,000 people and the city's largest concentration of Latino residents.
A spokesman for the property management company said that it is hoping to avoid evictions by offering relief options, but residents and organizers said there are still issues that need to be resolved.
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Over the last few months, the protesters said, representatives of the property management company told them that they had applied for state rent relief on their behalf and wouldn't need to pay rent, even if they had enough to cover it. So they didn't.
Then the eviction notices started coming in.
"There's so many other families that are in the same situation," said Hernandez, 29. "I used to go (to the administrative office) every month, and they would just tell me to wait. ... They're now sending everybody to court because they want money."
Marching along Hull Street Road, approximately 50 tenants, mostly women and children, chanted as they made their way to deliver a petition calling on Southwood to erase their debts and pause eviction proceedings because of the uncertainty about their rent relief applications and previous directions they had been given.
Donde estan las aplicaciones?
Que queremos? Respuestas!
No one from the property management company addressed the protesters Tuesday.
Mark Hubbard, a spokesman for Southwood and senior vice president of McGuire Woods Consulting LLC, did not say how many eviction suits have been filed since the end of the state rent relief program on May 15.
Sofia Vega, an organizer with New Virginia Majority, a statewide advocacy organization that focuses on immigrant issues and has been assisting Southwood residents, said they are aware of approximately 120 eviction cases.
"The issue here is that there are so many tenants who have applied for rent relief, from as far back as November of last year," Vega said. "They would come back and be told to wait because their application is still pending. They were still being told that in July."
Vega said that they have been trying to connect residents with legal aid attorneys to support them through the cases, but that it's been overwhelming and confusing for many of them.
Hubbard, who was hired as a spokesperson for Southwood following a recent state investigation into the complex’s living conditions, said in an email that the property management company has offered two options to help residents after the state rent relief program ended on May 15.
"Despite years of resident support during the COVID-19 pandemic, Southwood residents currently owe more than $2.4 million in back rent," he said. "In July, over 300 residents did not pay rent. Allowing residents to continue to live in the community without fulfilling their financial obligations is unsustainable."
He said residents who are current on their July and August rent can pay back 50% of their arrears to have the rest of their debt forgiven. Residents can also pay past due rent over a six month period if they are current on rent for the last two months.
"We are hoping to keep more than 75% of our residents who are facing eviction proceedings by offering our own rent relief options to residents who have been struggling with making payments," he said.
Hubbard, however, did not answer whether property managers had made a mistake telling residents to not pay their rent.
He also said the property management company does not have evidence of it, but that it is "concerned" that New Virginia Majority organizers had told tenants to not pay their rent to force eviction cases and generate media attention for the advocacy group.
"That's ridiculous because out of all the people that are going to court, we only knew eight of them," Vega said. "We just met many of these people as they've been calling us and asking for help."
Steven Fischbach, litigation director for the Virginia Poverty Law Center, said there has been nearly 16,000 new eviction cases filed across Virginia since July 1. He said that's a large, but anticipated, increase since the end of the rent relief program and temporary legal protections in June.
After observing Southwood eviction cases in court Monday, he said that many of the tenants had explained the issue about the property managers telling them to wait before paying their rent. He said the judge continued several cases to consider them further.
"The lawyer for Southwood in court said it was New Virginia Majority that told tenants not to pay their rents, not their office, but the judge didn't seem to bite on that," he said. | https://richmond.com/news/local/watch-now-southwood-tenants-protest-eviction-notices/article_e3c9193c-ccc2-5d5a-ae52-d3b8fab2c564.html | 2022-08-17T00:20:33 | 1 | https://richmond.com/news/local/watch-now-southwood-tenants-protest-eviction-notices/article_e3c9193c-ccc2-5d5a-ae52-d3b8fab2c564.html |
FORT SMITH, Ark. — According to Fort Smith police, a child died after being left in a hot car on Tuesday, Aug. 16.
Police said an "undisclosed person" allegedly had to break the car window before taking the child to a nearby hospital. Later, the child was pronounced dead.
The incident reportedly happened near a home on Boone Avenue.
Fort Smith police and the Crisis Intervention Unit responded to the hospital and authorities are at the Boone Avenue home investigating.
No other information has been released at this time.
We will update this article with more information as it becomes available. | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/baby-dies-fort-smith-hospital-hot-car/527-74c32547-d078-47e2-8ae9-5554bf1d9d20 | 2022-08-17T00:24:33 | 1 | https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/baby-dies-fort-smith-hospital-hot-car/527-74c32547-d078-47e2-8ae9-5554bf1d9d20 |
BOISE, Idaho — Idaho's abortion laws are set for a few changes over the next week. There are three separate laws that are all in different stages of enforcement.
There is a chance the situation changes again on Monday, that's because a judge will hear arguments from the Department of Justice (DOJ) as to why they believe the law should be blocked.
As of Tuesday, Idaho has two laws waiting to kick in, while one civil law is already on the books.
The civil enforcement law went into effect last Friday. It passed the legislature earlier this year as Senate Bill 1309. It allows specific family members of a "pre-born" child to sue a medical professional for performing an abortion after about 6-weeks of pregnancy for at least $20,000.
The law allows lawsuits to be filed up to 4 years after an abortion, it's enforced by the courts, not to be confused with the criminal abortion laws waiting to go into effect.
So what about the other laws?
On Friday of this week, the criminal 6-week ban on abortion goes into effect.
That law was triggered in July after a lower court decision, with a countdown clock of 30 days. That law was paused by the Idaho supreme court for a time, but that pause, or stay, was removed Friday.
The third law, Idaho’s essential ban on all abortions with a few exceptions, goes into effect next week, august 25th.
So, for a little less than a week, Idaho will have a criminal abortion ban set at 6 weeks, then next week, the law will reflect the trigger provisions: no abortions except for cases of rape or incest reported to law enforcement, or a medical emergency to save the life of the mother.
All of that could change again as soon as Monday, the State of Idaho will appear in court against the United States of America. The U.S. Department of Justice is suing Idaho over the almost complete ban on abortions.
The DOJ argues that the Idaho law contradicts a federal law that basically says medical providers that accept Medicare funds need to provide emergency care for people in serious jeopardy, that includes emergency abortion care.
The Idaho law has a higher bar to allow an abortion, the mother's life needs to be stake. The DOJ argues that higher bar conflicts with federal law, named Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Law (EMTALA).
So on Monday the DOJ vs Idaho battle continues in U.S. District Court.
A major conversation will be about the ‘supremacy clause’ in the U.S. Constitution. KTVB spoke with former Idaho Attorney General and Idaho law expert Dave Leroy, he explains the supremacy clause and the bar the DOJ likely needs to meet Monday.
“In short, the supremacy clause is the rule that federal law will win over state law, but only if the federal government has specific authority in that area. You don't just get off if you're a fed or the Department of Justice, a pass on that kind of argument. First of all, you have to determine whether the federal government has a legitimate regulatory interest in that area, and they probably do here. But, secondly, you have to prove that both of those laws can’t exist together and to argue that something that goes on in an emergency room has to outlaw every other application of Idaho law. That's going to be a heavy burden for the federal government,” Leroy said.
So, what results can happen Monday?
A major one, the law in question can be paused by a judge. To be clear, that is just the trigger law, the 6-week ban is not part of the discussion Monday. Leroy details the possibility of a pause, and why it may be tough for the DOJ to do.
"A U.S. District Court judge, as has been done around the country and various other states laws, can always issue an injunction if there is some immediate, irreparable harm found and a likelihood that the federal government would prevail. State law can be intercepted and suspended for a temporary period until a final decision is had. That is a theoretical possibility, but it's a possibility that the Idaho Supreme Court has already rejected once. And the federal courts tend to look to supreme courts of states for guidance about interpreting state law,” Leroy said.
The Idaho supreme court is in the background of this all, they will hear arguments in September on all three Idaho abortion laws.
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- Still reading this list? We're on YouTube, too: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/208/doj-impacts-idaho-abortion-laws/277-018496ca-02a0-4e47-a537-f048f2dba28b | 2022-08-17T00:24:34 | 1 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/208/doj-impacts-idaho-abortion-laws/277-018496ca-02a0-4e47-a537-f048f2dba28b |
MERIDIAN, Idaho — The Meridian Fire and Police Departments held a joint demonstration regarding school bus safety on Tuesday.
The departments partnered with Cascade Student Transportation for their annual training day Tuesday morning to show the drivers how rescue operations would be carried out in the event of an emergency.
"With the partnership, they've allowed us to train on some of their busses," Meridian Fire Department (MFD) Division Chief of Training, Jordan Reese said. "With the high-risk low-frequency events, we don't get to train on a whole lot, but it's certainly something we need to be prepared for, so we're very thankful for the opportunity."
At the event, Chief Reese discussed how MFD is specifically preparing for the upcoming fall semester and training to keep kids safe.
"They train every day for this type of thing even though we don't have busses all the time, they're ready to respond to any number of events." Chief Reese said. "While we never want these types of things to happen, we know that the possibility is there. So for us to get real-world experience on these types of vehicles is huge for us.
Crews used cutters, which are essentially very powerful giant scissors, to cut through the metal of the bus exterior and make a quick and efficient exit for occupants.
Roland Bak has been a bus driver for the last 15 years and also helps train drivers with Cascade Student Transportation. Bak said he was impressed while watching the training.
"They really did a fantastic job with how quick they were getting deployed and getting people in and out," Bak said.
The Meridian Police Department (MPD) was also at the training to answer questions and remind the public about traffic laws, lights, and school zones. Something that Bak said is greatly needed.
"The general public, they need to be more aware," Bak said. "Please, please be careful and obey the laws. When you see the lights on and the stop sign out, come to a stop. Be careful and watch for the students cause it happens all the time, kids get hit because people don't pay attention."
In the unlikely case an emergency situation does happen, Chief Reese said it is important for the public to stay calm and follow instructions from law enforcement.
"If something like this is to happen, bus accidents can become very chaotic environments," Chief Reese said. "Especially as parents, we know that it's your precious cargo but we have a job to do, and the more you can give us space to do our job, the better outcome it's going to be."
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/meridian-fire-and-police-demonstrate-school-bus-safety/277-2c90af5f-adf2-4533-af97-5264ba032ca9 | 2022-08-17T00:24:40 | 0 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/meridian-fire-and-police-demonstrate-school-bus-safety/277-2c90af5f-adf2-4533-af97-5264ba032ca9 |
NAMPA, Idaho —
Nampa Fire Department (NFD) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the department’s newest station in more than ten years, Tuesday afternoon.
Fire station 6 will be located on 1725 W. Roosevelt Avenue in Nampa.
Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling, Nampa Fire District Commissioners and Fire Chief Kirk Carpenter attended the event.
“This is a lifesaving change for our community and we can't wait for construction to begin and start responding and having a positive effect in our community,” said Fire Chief Carpenter.
Fire Chief Carpenter said the location of the new station is the best place to serve the community, by cutting response times down by minutes which will help save lives.
Nampa Fire station 6 will open up nine to twelve new positions.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/nampa-fire-breaks-ground-first-new-station-more-than-ten-years/277-1006ae23-edd6-44e5-b2e1-5139a5ccb958 | 2022-08-17T00:24:46 | 1 | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/local/nampa-fire-breaks-ground-first-new-station-more-than-ten-years/277-1006ae23-edd6-44e5-b2e1-5139a5ccb958 |
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A jury returned a swift verdict Tuesday in the gruesome killing of a San Antonio woman whose hands were hacked off with a machete and an ax buried in her head, convicting Rafael Castillo, 27, of murder.
Jurors deliberated only 65 minutes before agreeing that he killed Nicole “Niki” Perry, 31, on Nov. 19, 2020. The two were staying at a house on the Southeast Side that testimony showed was a regular hangout for methamphetamine users.
Two witnesses, including Perry’s boyfriend, last week described being in the room and watching Castillo restrain her with duct tape, chop her hands off with a machete and kill her with an ax blow to the head.
Both were in tears on the witness stand, saying they were forced to clean the room afterwards, mopping up blood and forcing Perry’s body into a pair of plastic storage bins. And both described being terrified of Castillo.
Vanessa Marie Vargas, now in jail for violating probation, said she feared for her life for testifying against him.
Randall Fulghum, Perry’s boyfriend for at least eight years, cried as he told the jury he averted his eyes at the moment Perry’s hands were chopped off, and when she was hacked by the ax, and that he and Vargas feared they would end up the same way if they didn’t clean the murder scene.
A public works crew found Perry’s body weeks later, dumped along W.W. White Road near Higdon Road. Her hands were never found.
Defense attorneys Matt Allen and Elizabeth Russell argued that many of the witnesses should have been charged. They said their testimony should not be believed because they delayed telling law enforcement about the killing, and because all of them were using methamphetamine at the time it happened.
Allen used a diagram on a video screen to show the different versions in testimony of three main witnesses — Fulghum, Vargas and Robert Martinez, known as “Gizmo,” who lived at the backyard structure and allowed the others to periodically stay there.
Martinez should have been charged as an accomplice, Allen argued, because testimony established that he was there when the killing took place, and called someone to come and take the body away.
“It’s graphic, it’s gruesome, but that’s not what we are here for,” Allen told the jury. “You are judging the credibility of the witnesses.”
On ExpressNews.com: ‘A sound I will never forget’: Fiancé describes hacking death
In their closing statements, prosecutors Jennifer McDaniel and Ali Nixon told the panel that Vargas — who cried and held her hands over her face as she testified, and Fulghum, who leapt out of the witness stand at the sight of a photo of his dead fiancé — appeared traumatized as they gave their testimony.
“They are compelling because they are telling the truth,” McDaniel told the panel. “Randall’s loyalty was to Niki. He will tell you who killed her because he wants him held accountable.”
“Vanessa did what she did because she was scared of this defendant,” she added.
The jurors began deliberations around 4:45 p.m. They asked for testimony of Vargas, Fulghum and Martinez to be read back to them, but state District Judge Jennifer Pena told them they had all the testimony and evidence with them.
Minutes later, the courtroom was cleared so that the jury could view the ax and machete again.
Castillo did not visibly react to the verdict’s announcement. The sentencing phase of the trial starts Wednesday in the 290th District Court. He faces up to life in prison.
ezavala@express-news.net | Twitter: @elizabeth2863 | https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Castillo-ax-woman-murder-guilty-17378125.php | 2022-08-17T00:30:27 | 0 | https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Castillo-ax-woman-murder-guilty-17378125.php |
TAMPA, Fla. — Florida-based Project DYNAMO is continuing to perform evacuations and rescue operations for American citizens and residents in Afghanistan after almost one year since the U.S. withdrew its troops from the country, the non-profit organization said in a news release on Tuesday.
Project DYNAMO has reportedly conducted four rescue operations in the last two months.
This year, the organization says it has led more than 50 cross-border evacuations from Afghanistan into surrounding countries to rescue Americans, lawful residents and allies.
Members of the Afghan Diplomatic Corps, senior officers of the Afghan military and security service and U.S. citizens were recently evacuated from Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, the news release said.
“Just as we predicted, Afghanistan is once again harboring terrorists with American blood on their hands less than a year since the U.S. withdrawal,” Bryan Stern, co-founder of Project DYNAMO, said in a statement. “As the mastermind of the attacks on 9/11, the idea that Ayman al-Zawahiri can freely walk around Kabul and visit his family with impunity while those who served alongside the U.S. and NATO lost their homes, families, and many cases their lives confirms that Americans and allies who aided America remain in extreme danger from al-Qaeda, other terrorist groups, and by proxy the new Afghan government itself."
From April to June of this year, Project DYNAMO says it rescued more than three people, including an elderly couple who went to Kabul to visit their family, family members of a former first secretary of the Permanent Mission of Afghanistan from an undisclosed place in Afghanistan and an Afghan Army Colonel.
“These Afghan diplomats serving abroad still have families in Kabul,” Stern said in a statement. “They can’t return home because the Taliban's new government says they are now the enemy. Their homes are destroyed and their families are targeted and even killed.”
Stern also said many U.S citizens, residents and allies are still hiding in Afghanistan with no way out.
Project Dynamo says there are thousands of requests for evacuation in its rescue request database.
To learn more about Project Dynamo and how to donate, click here. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/project-dynamo-evacuate-americans-afghanistan/67-d802f36b-9afc-4657-9ac2-c198703c2427 | 2022-08-17T00:30:56 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/project-dynamo-evacuate-americans-afghanistan/67-d802f36b-9afc-4657-9ac2-c198703c2427 |
ATLANTIC CITY — Police arrested three people Monday they say were conducting a drug deal on Atlantic Avenue.
Detectives were conducting a surveillance operation in the 1500 block of Atlantic, in response to complaints from the public and local business owners concerning drug distribution and quality-of-life issues throughout the block, police said Tuesday in a news release.
During the operation, detectives saw three people engage in suspected drug transactions, police said.
Two of them, Christian Hunter and Jesse Lacy, were detained by detectives and found to be in possession of crack cocaine and eight wax folds of suspected heroin, police said. Hunter also was found to be in possession of prescription pills. Additionally, detectives seized about $800 from Hunter believed to be the proceeds of drug sales.
The third suspect, Bilal Reynolds, ran and was tracked to an apartment complex about two blocks away in the first block of North Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, police said. Detectives found Reynolds in the rear parking lot of the complex. As they approached Reynolds, he began to run toward the first block of North Mount Vernon Avenue.
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Detectives pursued Reynolds and saw him discard a satchel before detaining him a short distance away. The satchel was found to have a 9mm handgun loaded with hollow point ammunition and an extended magazine, police said. Detectives also found a digital scale and prescription pills inside the satchel.
ATLANTIC CITY — A new version of an ordinance to fine gas stations and storage facilities fo…
Reynolds, 42, of Atlantic City, was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession with intent to distribute, possession of a weapon during a drug distribution offense, certain persons not to possess weapons, possession of hollow point ammunition, possession of a high-capacity magazine and resisting arrest.
Hunter, 30, of Atlantic City, was charged with possession of CDS and possession with intent to distribute.
Lacey, 39, of Browns Mills, Burlington County, was charged with two counts of possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Reynolds and Hunter were sent to the Atlantic County jail. Lacy was issued a summons pending court but was sent to the jail after he was found to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
Detectives Eric Evans and Christian Ivanov led the operation with assistance from Detectives Nick Berardis and Alberto Valles. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-police-arrest-3-amid-atlantic-avenue-drug-deal/article_4defab0c-1dbd-11ed-a21f-6bce18d381b3.html | 2022-08-17T00:32:04 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/atlantic-city-police-arrest-3-amid-atlantic-avenue-drug-deal/article_4defab0c-1dbd-11ed-a21f-6bce18d381b3.html |
Justin Figueroa's dream becomes reality Saturday.
When the 2017 Holy Spirit High School graduate was younger, Figueroa and his brother played the boxing video game series "Fight Night." As a lifelong Atlantic City resident, he always chose the same venue to have those simulated fights — Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.
"At the time, Atlantic City was all we knew," said Figueroa, who started boxing at age 10. "It's just insane that it's coming to life. We kind of manifested it."
The 23-year-old will make his professional boxing debut Saturday at Boardwalk Hall when he fights Tavaris Smith (0-5) of Toledo, Ohio, one of eight bouts on the Boardwalk Boxing: Rising Star Series card. The fights will start at 6:30 p.m. Figueroa's is a four-round middleweight bout.
"I am definitely excited," said Figueroa, who has been training at different places around the state and the Philadelphia area since finishing an amateur circuit in December 2021. The past 12 weeks, he has been mainly training in the resort. "It's honestly a dream."
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Figueroa will have a lot of supporters Saturday
"I feel like I've been waiting for this moment for a while," he said. "I feel ready. I am ready to lay it all on the line. Sometimes I do get a little nervous and have a little anxiety about it because it's my first go-around at it. So there is a little bit of nervousness, but then I remember all the hard work I've put into this. I feel like I am going to seize the moment.
"I can’t wait to showcase the hard work I put in."
Weigh-ins are set for 2 p.m. Friday at the Spirit Bar at Showboat Atlantic City and will open to the public. Millville-based company Rising Star Promotions, along with Atlantic City Sports Commission, will stage the event. Local fighter Thomas "Cornflake" LaManna runs Rising Star, which has promoted cards since 2015.
LaManna (31-5-1, 13 KOs), a 2011 Millville graduate, will fight Saul Roman (46-15, 38 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, in the eight-round main event, a middleweight bout scheduled to start at 9 p.m.
LaManna has not fought in the resort since 2018.
"I'm excited to be back," said LaManna, who had a fight in Philadelphia in 2020. "It's going to be great. I'm just trying to not get all my nerves psyched up. I'm looking forward to it."
LaManna earned a second-round technical knockout in August 2021, his last fight. He had lost in the World Boxing Association middleweight title bout in May 2021, falling to Erislandy Lara.
LaManna thought that was his last fight.
"I just needed to get back," said LaManna. "I just got to a bad place, and I did not want to go out like that. I just missed fighting. I had fun promoting. I will still have fun promoting and will continue to do these shows, but I am a fighter first. I always have and always will. I want to keep going on with my fighting career."
LaManna is tentatively scheduled to fight for a WBA Regional title in Colombia in two weeks. LaManna anticipates his fight and the entire event will go well Saturday.
"I'm excited," LaManna said. "I'm looking forward to everything. Me and all the other fighters have to be great that night and write another piece of Atlantic City boxing history."
Rising Star also staged a card at Boardwalk Hall’s Adrian Phillips Ballroom in March, which Figueroa attended. After he saw the event, Figueroa wanted to fight in the Rising Star's next card.
"I feel like this is what Atlantic City needs," said Figueroa, who praised Rising Star for putting on this event and noted Saturday's atmosphere will be electric. "Boxing played a big part in Atlantic City, and I'm really excited to bring boxing back to Atlantic City, the city I grew up in. It's going to be a great event."
Figueroa's other sport
Figueroa fought up and down the East Coast as a kid but discovered other sports as a teenager. He enjoyed the team aspect and stepped away from fighting. He played football and wrestled at Spirit, his two main sports.
Figueroa also played baseball and competed in track and field. He is a member of the Atlantic City Beach Patrol. Being a well-rounded athlete helps him in the ring.
Figueroa started training to fight again in 2018. He won an amateur fight in 2019, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic put everything on hold. Last year, Figueroa won eight of 10 fights, but his one loss came against the top-ranked amateur fighter in the nation.
“My plan was to win the whole thing because I had high hopes, but when I lost, it was a close fight, but they gave it to the other guy, it crushed my dreams. It broke my heart when I lost that fight."
But he wanted to “go back to my home city and try my best to bring boxing back to Atlantic City,” he said.
"I feel more than ready,” Figueroa said. “I trained my heart out. I gave my life to boxing. I feel very well-prepared. There is definitely room to grow, and I look to get better each fight, but I think I am ready." | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/holy-spirit-grad-justin-figueroa-to-make-pro-boxing-debut-saturday/article_6f16adde-1d6e-11ed-b1e7-375f7b93f9ef.html | 2022-08-17T00:32:10 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/holy-spirit-grad-justin-figueroa-to-make-pro-boxing-debut-saturday/article_6f16adde-1d6e-11ed-b1e7-375f7b93f9ef.html |
SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio Metro Health officials said Tuesday monkeypox transmission remains low for Bexar County. To date, there have been 20 confirmed cases, and at least 62 people who have had a vaccine, according to Metro Health.
Assistant Director for Metro Health Dr. Anita Kurian said the city received 3500 more vaccines this week and have been allocated based on priority groups.
“We are seeing a slow, very slow increase in the number of cases here in san Antonio, we are not seeing a widespread spread,” Dr. Kurian said.
The virus is spread mostly through skin to skin or sexual contact, but can also be transmitted after touching objects, clothes, or linens of someone who has been infected. While the most impacted have been men who have sex with other men, anyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity can become infected. This month, the CDC provided guidance for congregate settings if a monkeypox case has been identified.
Ahead of the fall semester, colleges and universities are asked to educate students on monkeypox symptoms, transmission, prevention, and treatment options in a way that reduces the stigma and does not further marginalize the queer community.
“They do tend to live in close quarters and there are a lot more activities that could put them at risk for contracting infections,” said Dr. Kurian.
San Antonio area colleges are working closely with Metro Health and public health authorities to provide education and resources.
Metro Health will be providing answers during a Monkeypox Forum Thursday, August 18 from 7 P.M. - 8 P.M. Spanish and ASL translation will be available.
Here is how local colleges and universities are responding to the monkeypox endemic:
Texas A&M University:
Texas A&M University-San Antonio will be sending a detailed University-wide communication as students return to campus regarding COVID-19 protocols as well as general guidance for monkeypox. The University will be providing specific information about prevention and activity risk ratings for transmission. Because the vaccine for monkeypox is in limited availability, it is not possible to schedule clinics on campus at this time, but we are directing our community to the City of San Antonio website, San Antonio Metro Health’s monkeypox webpage, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention monkeypox website for more information. Resources will be provided on our website as they become available.
University of Texas at San Antonio:
We know that news about another infectious disease is concerning, especially in light of our ongoing response to COVID-19. Campus mental health resources are available to students through Wellbeing Services and to faculty and staff through the Employee Assistance Program.
Part of UTSA’s robust response to COVID-19 involved enhancing and expanding our campus disinfection protocols and procedures. This practice will continue, with regular disinfection of high-touch areas throughout our campuses using cleaning agents and processes aligning with EPA guidance for effective inactivation of viral pathogens.
While there are effective vaccines against monkeypox, supplies are limited at this time. Currently, the CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox or are more likely to get monkeypox. San Antonio Metro Health is currently providing vaccines to individuals in greatest need according to priority groups.
Full message to UTSA students here.
Our Lady of the Lake University:
The OLLU Health Education Resource Office (HERO) began sharing information with students about monkeypox last week as they were returning to the residence halls. The information includes details on what monkeypox is, risk factors, symptoms and when to get tested.
In addition, the OLLU emergency response team that has been providing guidance on COVID-19 is now also monitoring the monkeypox situation. As we continue to do with COVID-19, we are seeking guidance from San Antonio Metro Health and the CDC. With that guidance, we are preparing for the possibility of monkeypox cases on campus.
St. Mary's University:
St. Mary’s University community members are directed to seek out information about monkeypox through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more about protecting themselves and others from getting or being exposed to the virus. Students with symptoms of monkeypox or exposure to the virus are expected to inform the Student Health Center, stay home and follow the isolation guidance provided by the Student Health Center’s medical team. St. Mary’s will reinforce these individual conversations with mass email communications and guidance posted on the website.
Trinity University:
“As students prepare to return to campus, Trinity University is closely monitoring the MPV (monkeypox) infection through the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. The University also has protocols in place and is ready to identify and treat any infections that may occur through its Student Health Services. More information about MPV and its impact on public health will be updated and made available as public health officials continue to learn more about the current outbreak.”
University of Incarnate Word:
“The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is working directly with the San Antonio Metropolitan Health Department to provide education and reduce stigma within our community on the monkeypox virus. UIW plans to evaluate each case individually with assistance from the Health Department. At this time, classroom settings are considered low risk for spread of the virus. UIW has had no on-campus cases of monkeypox, but our Health Services personnel has been trained and supplies are available for any cases that might arise.” | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/here-are-how-san-antonio-colleges-and-universities-are-responding-to-potential-monkeypox-outbreaks/273-053bc1f2-c1e7-41c1-bc37-9185fd4b8dd1 | 2022-08-17T00:33:24 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/here-are-how-san-antonio-colleges-and-universities-are-responding-to-potential-monkeypox-outbreaks/273-053bc1f2-c1e7-41c1-bc37-9185fd4b8dd1 |
HOUSTON, Miss. (WTVA) - It's a field of dreams in Chickasaw County as local leaders agree to improvements to draw more kids to play.
Houston city leaders announced the funding on Tuesday, Aug. 16.
The project includes new dugouts, field stops and fencing, plus a new synthetic turf.
Houston Mayor Stacey Parker said now is the perfect time for the city to do a project like this.
The city is spending $70,000 from tourism tax funds to pay for the improvements.
Video coming soon. | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/houston-to-renovate-two-baseball-fields/article_8ce01e98-1dac-11ed-ba23-57bf0f5b5176.html | 2022-08-17T00:36:33 | 0 | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/houston-to-renovate-two-baseball-fields/article_8ce01e98-1dac-11ed-ba23-57bf0f5b5176.html |
CORINTH, Miss. (WTVA) - A man is charged with first-degree murder in Corinth.
Robert Walker of Corinth is accused of shooting and killing Demetrius Atkins.
According to police, the shooting happened Sunday night at approximately 10:40.
Atkins was found on a back porch along Sara Lane.
A motive is being investigated. | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/murder-arrest-made-in-corinth-for-weekend-shooting/article_3ebcedd4-1da4-11ed-a01c-c7d36005777a.html | 2022-08-17T00:36:39 | 1 | https://www.wtva.com/news/local/murder-arrest-made-in-corinth-for-weekend-shooting/article_3ebcedd4-1da4-11ed-a01c-c7d36005777a.html |
SANDUSKY, Ohio — A man and woman were arrested at Cedar Point on Sunday after four witnesses told Sandusky police they saw the couple engaged in sexual intercourse aboard one of the rides.
According to a police report, David Davis and Heather Johnston, both 32-years-old, were allegedly seen having sex while on the Cedar Point attraction Giant Wheel. The two were confronted by a Cedar Point police sergeant and security before the Sandusky Police Department was called.
The group of witnesses included two juveniles who were in the cart below the couple on the Ferris wheel.
The two initially denied any accusations. Johnston reported to officers that she had shorts on under her dress, dropped her cigarette pack out of them and when she picked them up Davis helped her.
Witnesses told police that they felt the cart shaking and saw the man and woman both expose themselves on the ride.
The couple later admitted that they were engaged in sexual intercourse.
Davis and Johnston were both arrested and transported to the Erie County Police Department where they were charged with a misdemeanor of the first degree. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/couple-arrested-after-allegedly-having-sex-on-ferris-wheel-at-cedar-point/530-a08bc013-4366-4316-a5d9-6b8aa3f11f76 | 2022-08-17T00:37:59 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/couple-arrested-after-allegedly-having-sex-on-ferris-wheel-at-cedar-point/530-a08bc013-4366-4316-a5d9-6b8aa3f11f76 |
INDIANAPOLIS — For several weeks, people around Marion County have reported their trash not being picked up by the city.
Most recently, neighbors near 42nd Street and Arlington Avenue have noticed their trash cans overflowing.
“It’s just getting worse,” said Jeff Fleming. “We can’t leave this trash on the streets. It is just going to create another problem.”
Fleming said he waited two weeks for the city to come out but on Tuesday, he had enough. In the morning, he took his and his neighbor’s trash to a city dump.
“If this is going to be the case, they need to open up the city dump where we can take our trash cans out there for free. I don’t want to keep paying $41 a week to get rid of trash,” Fleming said.
In the last several weeks, neighbors throughout the city have complained about trash piling up.
DPW said the main issue is a lack of workers. Right now, they are about 31 drivers short a day compared to about 20 last year.
“That allows us generally to still cover everything but as soon as anybody has to take time off for any reason, that’s when things start to get a little dicey,” said Ben Easley, a spokesperson for Indy DPW.
So far this year, DPW has hired 11 new employees but also lost 25 employees. In order to have a full team for the solid waste division, they would need about 60 workers.
To make up for that, Easley said many employees are working six days a week.
“The men and women of DPW’s solid waste division are really putting in the work so I would aim any frustration away from the driver in your alleyway and give us some patience as we work to address this staffing issue,” Easley said.
In the meantime, residents like Brenda Yates are frustrated paying for a service that doesn’t come.
“This is ridiculous because we have all called and it’s the second week,” Yates said.
For now, she’s thankful her cans aren’t as full as others but worries that could change if someone doesn’t show up soon.
“What am I going to do next week?” Yates said.
To help, DPW is finalizing a new marketing campaign to recruit more people and is looking to do CDL training for new employees possibly next year.
The department is asking residents to leave their trash at the end of the curb saying sometimes a crew might come the next day or even on Saturdays.
Residents can also reach out to the Mayor’s Action Center at 317-327-4622. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/east-side-indianapolis-neighborhood-waits-weeks-for-trash-pick-up-as-dpw-battles-staffing-shortage/531-38e46470-a4c8-449c-b248-680d70ca4aa3 | 2022-08-17T00:38:05 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/east-side-indianapolis-neighborhood-waits-weeks-for-trash-pick-up-as-dpw-battles-staffing-shortage/531-38e46470-a4c8-449c-b248-680d70ca4aa3 |
Bird tales: Wildlife clinic returns bald eagle to the wild, rescues entangled owl from tree
Rescuers at the Wildlife Clinic of Rhode Island have had a busy and successful few days, first releasing a bald eagle that the clinic had been nursing since May and then rescuing an owl that had been entangled in fishing line.
The eagle released Saturday is just the second of its species the clinic has rehabilitated and released to the wild in its 29-year history. The owl was rescued Monday in Bradford – which spans parts of Westerly and Hopkinton – after it was found about 15 to 20 feet up in a tree and the clinic put out a call for help from tree climbers.
"The eagle went back home," said Kristin Fletcher, executive director of the Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island, which runs the Saunderstown clinic. The prognosis on the owl, now in the clinic's care, "is really excellent," she said.
Endangered:Future uncertain for RI wildlife clinic without state funding
Eagle 'would not have survived'
When it was brought to the clinic in May, the juvenile eagle was in rough shape. Found on the ground below its nest in Coventry, he had apparently fallen and fractured both of his right lower leg bones, the clinic said on Facebook.
"He obviously would not have survived in that condition," Fletcher said. "They need those legs and feet to hunt."
Under the care of the clinic's veterinarian, Dr. Mariah Rayfield Beck, the eagle had surgery to pin the bones, and then regular X-rays to ensure the bones were healing properly. The bird also received weekly physical therapy sessions that Fletcher said are comparable to the physical therapy a human would receive.
The eagle was kept on "strict cage rest" indoors for nearly two months and then moved to an outdoor cage where "he immediately started self feeding and beginning to strengthen his wings," the clinic said.
"He was pretty vocal. If anyone got near the cage, you could hear him complain," Fletcher said.
He was the first eagle to use the clinic's new 60-foot flight cage, called The Eagle Cage.
Bald eagles are making a comeback but are not a common sight in Rhode Island, with about six breeding pairs in the state. The clinic has treated other bald eagles, according to Fletcher, but most were in such bad condition they didn't survive.
This eagle was released near its nest in the hope that it will reunite with its family, which rescued raptors typically do, according to Fletcher. Neighbors have been keeping an eye on the area, and so have clinic staff.
Spring is busy for animal rescuers:With owls dropping from trees and orphaned fox pups...
"The homeowners informed us that his sibling and father have been seen recently!" the clinic said on Facebook. "He flew off with grace and strength, all that we could hope for!"
Walking RI:Mingle with birds, beavers, mink and more at Exeter's Fisherville Brook refuge
Barred owl was not easy to reach
Some drama followed discovery of the barred owl. The owl was in a difficult spot up in a tree on a trail about a mile from the road.
The clinic put out a plea for help on Facebook. Within hours, it arrived from Connecticut.
The help came from A Place Called Hope, an organization in the town of Killingworth that rescues and rehabilitates birds of prey. Todd Secki, co-founder of A Place Called Hope, and volunteer Alex Burne, both experienced climbers, drove to Rhode Island and retrieved the owl.
Considering its predicament, the owl was in good shape. The fishing line hadn't snagged its legs or wings, which is what often causes serious injury to birds, according to Fletcher. Its feathers, essential to its silent flight for hunting, also appear to be in good shape, she said.
Race against time:Rising seas push the saltmarsh sparrow to the edge of extinction
Despite the two high-profile cases, according to Fletcher, last weekend wasn't unusual for the clinic, which treated 6,000 animals last year.
"At this time of year, it's just the way it is," Fletcher said. "Every weekend, we're trying to get more species released."
The bald eagle's release and the owl's recovery look like victories, but the clinic also has its losses, according to Fletcher, like the fawn that couldn't be saved last weekend.
She said, "We always get our highs and our lows."
jperry@providencejournal.com
(401) 277-7614
On Twitter: @jgregoryperry
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A parakeet in your yard?:Here's why it probably isn't a lost pet | https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/ri-wildlife-clinic-returns-bald-eagle-wild-rescues-entangled-owl/10335621002/ | 2022-08-17T00:38:11 | 0 | https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/ri-wildlife-clinic-returns-bald-eagle-wild-rescues-entangled-owl/10335621002/ |
INDIANAPOLIS — The state's largest public transportation provider is getting a big grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
IndyGo plans to use the $33 million to expand with a new garage at its east campus headquarters.
The new building will allow them to store more vehicles while expanding its fleet, which is part of its Marion County transit plan.
The new facility will also help IndyGo grow their maintenance and operations resources.
IndyGo is one of nine agencies in the nation to receive the more than $30 million grants from the USDOT program. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indygo-plans-to-expand-fleet-build-garage-with-33-million-federal-grant-public-transportation-indianapolis/531-11fe055a-44a7-4a78-99da-53155d1c873d | 2022-08-17T00:38:11 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indygo-plans-to-expand-fleet-build-garage-with-33-million-federal-grant-public-transportation-indianapolis/531-11fe055a-44a7-4a78-99da-53155d1c873d |
INDIANAPOLIS — When you're walking to your next event downtown, you may notice a new ride sprinkled throughout the streets that's competing with the Bird and Lime scooters that we've all gotten to know and — for some of us — love.
Veo electric scooters launched 500 scooters across Indianapolis.
"We’re bringing Veo scooters to Indianapolis to provide the community with increased access to clean transportation, helping connect people to transit and providing an affordable alternative to using cars for trips around town," said Candice Xie, CEO of Veo. "We look forward to working closely with the city and its residents to build a successful, long-term partnership that aligns with the transportation needs of communities across the city."
The scooters are designed with front and rear suspension for smoother riding, an active brake light system and bright LED lighting to help riders see and be seen.
They also have audible "Veo Voice" notifications to help riders navigate around geofenced zones.
To ride a Veo, you need to download the Veo app and scan a QR code to unlock the scooter. The cost to unlock it is $1 and the ride costs $0.39 a minute.
To celebrate the launch in Indianapolis, Veo is offering a $5 credit that can be redeemed on the app using the code: RIDEINDY.
When you're done, you'll see recommended parking zones and no ride/no parking zones highlighted on the app. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/veo-scooters-arrive-in-indianapolis-to-compete-with-bird-lime-scooters/531-18ce6ccb-8365-45f9-8c8d-409dd2a42015 | 2022-08-17T00:38:17 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/veo-scooters-arrive-in-indianapolis-to-compete-with-bird-lime-scooters/531-18ce6ccb-8365-45f9-8c8d-409dd2a42015 |
FLINT, Mich. (WJRT) – The Flint Mass Transportation Authority will receive $4,334,800 in funding to support the expansion of MTA’s zero-emissions bus program.
The grant was awarded by the Federal Transit Administration through its Low and No Emission Vehicle program which is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“It breaks down with $1.9 million for some new Hydrogen buses, a couple of more buses, and then the remainder to actually expand the station because it's our intention in the days ahead to increase the fleet of hydrogen vehicles as we retire some of our last diesels,” CEO of Flint MTA, Ed Benning said.
For over a decade Flint's Mass transportation authority has been working to build their fleet of hydrogen fuel cell buses to replace diesel.
Currently 98 percent of MTA's buses run on alternative fuel but the remaining 2 percent of diesel buses have hit them hard.
“We were actually buying over 3 million gallons of diesel a year,” he said. “Last year we bought 30,000 gallons a diesel, I look forward to when it’s zero gallons.”
Benning says advancing with zero emissions though will be more important moving forward than cost, saying that it will benefit the community in multiple ways–by allowing them to expand service in addition to helping the environment.
“We'll have more money to provide more service and you know, with the changes coming after the pandemic and managing the challenges we now face,” Benning said. “We must find ways to provide transit at a whole new platform and we're working on that.” | https://www.abc12.com/news/local/flint-mta-awarded-4-3m-for-hydrogen-buses/article_fb3c8406-1dae-11ed-a26e-c3fdc65125f5.html | 2022-08-17T00:43:52 | 1 | https://www.abc12.com/news/local/flint-mta-awarded-4-3m-for-hydrogen-buses/article_fb3c8406-1dae-11ed-a26e-c3fdc65125f5.html |
A day after a district judge tossed the evidence, Lancaster County prosecutors have asked to dismiss a felony drug case against a Lincoln man.
Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong cited "police misconduct" for excluding the evidence in Juan Morales' possession of a controlled substance case.
"Mr. Morales has maintained all along that he was innocent of these charges," his attorney, Joy Shiffermiller, said Tuesday.
In a brief seeking to keep the drug evidence from going in front of a jury, Shiffermiller said July 12, 2021, two members of the Metro Fugitive Task Force, in plain clothes and unmarked vehicles, were at Shamrock Mobile Home Court looking for another man wanted in a strangulation case when Morales drove up to a trailer and parked his car.
The officers got out of separate vehicles, activating hidden lights on one, and ordered Morales to the ground to determine if he was the wanted man.
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At a hearing on the motion in late July, Sgt. Ryan Schmuecker testified that when Morales went to the ground he made a throwing motion before lying down.
Deputy Lance Johnson, the other officer, who was 25 feet away, said he didn't see it.
Schmuecker cuffed Morales' hands behind his back, then left him in front of his truck to check if he was wanted, too. While still in his truck, the sergeant said, he heard the sound of glass hit the ground and saw Morales smashing a pipe with drug residue in it.
Johnson testified that he didn't recall seeing a pipe on the ground or Schmuecker approaching Morales.
Schmuecker said that's when he went to search for whatever Morales had thrown and found a Crown Royal bag with marijuana and methamphetamine in it.
"After defendant had been arrested and while he was still handcuffed behind his back, Sgt. Schmuecker found two small bottles of alcohol. He had the defendant drink the alcohol. When asked why at the hearing, Sgt. Schmuecker said he 'was just trying to extend a kind gesture,'" Strong said in her order Monday.
He didn't mention it in his report or that Morales had denied he had thrown anything or that the pipe and bag belonged to him.
Strong found the stop lawful since the car he was driving belonged to the victim in the strangulation case.
But, she said, once Schmuecker recognized Morales and Morales showed his ID, the officers no longer had any reason to detain him and no probable cause to arrest him.
"Anything discovered after the illegal detention and arrest, including the Crown Royal bag and its contents, must be excluded as fruit of the poisonous tree," the judge wrote. "The remedial objective of deterring police misconduct is best served by excluding the evidence against the defendant in this case."
In a footnote, Strong said, while she normally ascribes great weight to the testimony of law enforcement officers, it is difficult to assume that Schmuecker followed proper procedure before Morales' arrest "knowing it was so totally disregarded after the arrest."
Lacking the physical evidence, Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Greg Ariza filed a motion to dismiss the case Tuesday. | https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/lincoln-judge-tosses-evidence-in-felony-case-over-police-misconduct/article_1d894eab-bbbf-5ac6-afd2-bd90201d1b31.html | 2022-08-17T00:47:06 | 0 | https://journalstar.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/lincoln-judge-tosses-evidence-in-felony-case-over-police-misconduct/article_1d894eab-bbbf-5ac6-afd2-bd90201d1b31.html |
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – A 23-year-old Flagler Beach man was killed during a hit-and-run along U.S. Highway 92 in Volusia County Tuesday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Troopers said a 2014 Nissan Sentra was heading west along the inside lane of U.S. Highway 92 when it struck the 23-year-old, who was walking in the same lane.
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The impact caused the man to be pushed into the outside lane, troopers said.
Another vehicle, a 2019 Chevy Silverado, was driving west in the outside lane of U.S. Highway 92, troopers said. The man landed in the path of the Chevy, which then ran him over, troopers added.
Troopers said they received reports that two more vehicles may have run over the man after the initial strike.
The man died on-scene, though the Chevy driver was not injured and remained at the scene, according to troopers.
Following the crash, the Nissan fled west on the highway, though it was eventually found later in the morning, troopers said.
Troopers said they are currently investigating to find the driver of the Nissan, who has yet to be found.
Anyone with information about the hit-and-run is asked to contact FHP at (407) 737-2213 or CRIMELINE.
This crash remains under investigation. Check back with News 6 for updates.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/17/flagler-beach-pedestrian-killed-in-volusia-county-hit-and-run-troopers-say/ | 2022-08-17T01:07:31 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/08/17/flagler-beach-pedestrian-killed-in-volusia-county-hit-and-run-troopers-say/ |
As the spread of coronavirus continues, here are the latest updates from Southern Arizona.
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Tuesday, March 1 | https://tucson.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/updates-tucson-area-coronavirus-developments-aug-17-what-we-know/article_dc8e92ea-6561-11ea-9e87-17207f678ee6.html | 2022-08-17T01:10:09 | 0 | https://tucson.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/updates-tucson-area-coronavirus-developments-aug-17-what-we-know/article_dc8e92ea-6561-11ea-9e87-17207f678ee6.html |
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation announced Tuesday it will step up the level of cuts in Colorado River deliveries in 2023, due to continuing water level declines at Lake Mead.
But the bureau held off on any larger, longer-term cuts in water deliveries — which it has said are necessary — while it and the seven Colorado River Basin states continue to negotiate in future months. Reclamation Commissioner Camille Touton had told the states in June to come up with a plan by mid-August to reduce their river water use by up to 28% by 2023. It didn’t happen, but Touton and others said Tuesday at a news conference that all parties will continue to negotiate toward producing a plan.
Some water officials and environmentalists criticized that lack of immediate action as “punting” and “extraordinarily discouraging.”
For next year, the bureau will reduce the amount of Central Arizona Project water it delivers by 80,000 acre-feet compared to this year’s delivery. That brings the total shortfall for the CAP to 592,000 acre-feet — more than one-third of the project’s supply of 1.5 million acre-feet before the shortages kicked in, and 21% of the state’s total Colorado River supply of 2.8 million acre-feet.
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That cut is required and was scheduled under a 2019 drought contingency plan, under which cuts in water deliveries increase gradually as Lake Mead declines. The loss of CAP water will fall largely on Phoenix-area cities and on tribes.
Tucson isn’t affected by those cuts, but has agreed to leave more than 20% of its total CAP share of 144,000 acre-feet in Lake Mead next year, as part of a separate deal. That will leave the city with less CAP water to recharge and store in basins in the Avra Valley, but won’t affect the CAP water delivered to Tucson Water customers.
Nevada and Mexico will also endure short-term cuts in river water deliveries next year, but California will not. The drought contingency plan doesn’t require California to take less water until Lake Mead drops further.
As for the longer-term cuts, the bureau on Tuesday announced the launching of several initiatives, including insuring “maximum efficient and beneficial use” of river water by cities and farms in the river’s Lower Basin of Arizona, Nevada and California.
That would most likely mean toughening the federal definition of “beneficial use,” to make it harder to prove an individual use of water from federal reservoirs meets the definition.
The bureau will also “prioritize and prepare” for other administrative measures, including one to address the loss of river water to evaporation, bureau and top Interior Department officials said Tuesday. Currently, the hundreds of thousands of acre-feet of river water that evaporate every year in Lower Basin reservoirs aren’t counted against the basin’s total Colorado River supply, but some experts say evaporation should be subtracted from total supplies.
However, officials of the bureau and Interior, its parent agency, offered no specific timetables for when such initiatives will be carried out.
Overall, the bureau only listed at most four of the dozen proposals that Southern Nevada Water Authority General Manager John Entsminger urged in a letter he wrote to Interior and bureau officials on Monday.
Still, “we will work to develop with the states as many conservation agreements as possible, today, throughout the week and for the rest of the year,” said Tanya Trujillo, Interior’s assistant secretary for water and science. “We have a proven track record, and that is exactly what we are going to be working on.”
Interior also said it would “support technical studies” to determine if authorities can modify Glen Canyon and Hoover dams so they can continue to deliver water in quantities needed to serve downstream users when they fall below “dead pool” levels, at which water normally couldn’t be extracted from the reservoirs.
The agencies will accelerate studies to improve the reliability of four steel outlet tubes at Glen Canyon Dam so they can transmit water from Lake Powell downstream for extended periods if the lake falls below the level at which its water can be used to generate electricity through turbines.
Trujillo and other Interior officials didn’t respond, however, to questions from reporters on whether it will ever consider decommissioning Glen Canyon Dam, an idea advocated by some environmental groups for many years but opposed by state water officials. Trujillo didn’t even respond to a question as to whether the department would rule out decommissioning of the dam.
“We’re focused on maintaining the integrity of the existing structure, the existing system. That’s our highest priority, and what is continuing to be our focus as we talk with the basin states and basin tribes and partner with Mexico,” Trujillo said. “We need to be able to insure we have the infrastructure intact to protect water supplies for everyone” who relies on them.
Interior’s actions were far less sweeping and mandatory than what Touton had threatened to impose back in mid-June. Since then, the basin states’ water officials met repeatedly to discuss a plan but hadn’t come close to adopting one.
At Tuesday’s news conference, reporter Annie Snider of Politico asked officials when they’ll start work on the steps they had discussed, adding, “How long will you continue to threaten an action and have that be meaningful to the states? It seems like the states are calling your bluff here.”
Touton replied that officials had started work on them, adding, “We’ve started to develop the tools needed to protect the system. We’re continuing to work with states. We believe the solution here is one of partnership. We’re continuing to work toward developing these things.”
The need to cut water use has been caused by rapidly declining water levels at Lakes Mead and Powell. On Tuesday, the bureau released its latest monthly forecast for reservoir levels, and they remained bleak, although they were slightly better than the forecast issued in July.
The latest forecast predicted Lake Mead would fall to 1,039 feet by the end of 2022, 29 feet lower than it was at the end of 2021. At the end of 2023, Mead is projected to fall to 1,023 feet. That level is 2 feet below the elevation at which the most severe shortage approved under the 2019 drought plan would kick in — a shortage that would reduce Tucson’s supply of CAP water by about 14%.
Lake Powell is projected to fall to 3,520 feet by the end of 2022, or 17 feet lower than where it stood at the end of 2021. The lake would have fallen much farther by the end of this year had the bureau not both reduced deliveries from Mead to Powell and increased deliveries to Powell from an upstream reservoir by significant amounts earlier this year.
Longtime Arizona water official and attorney Kathleen Ferris dismissed the bureau’s actions announced Tuesday.
“Talk about punting. The bureau said nothing today. The numbers on the lakes haven’t changed. They say we need to get consensus and we’re just going to keep working on it.
“We’re going to do some technical studies, and try to see if we can take water out of lakes below dead pool. I find that frightening. That’s just basically draining the lakes dry. They didn’t make any commitments. It’s extraordinarily discouraging,” said Ferris, a former Arizona Department of Water Resources director.
At a news conference following the one by Interior, a group of environmentalists said the department’s actions showed a lack of leadership.
“There’s a lot of hard truths to be faced now that go against the logic of 20th century water management, and things people were previously unwilling to talk about,” said Nick Halberg of the Utah Rivers Council. “That includes having the Upper Basin (Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming) get serious about saving water, and having substantial serious water cuts out of the Lower Basin. ... The speed is important. We are really are on a limited timeline.”
But Jennifer Pitt of the National Audubon Society said she was heartened to see the bureau say it will develop a plan. “I expect them not to fully reveal their hand in what they’re doing,” she said.
Sharon Megdal, director of the University of Arizona’s Water Resources Research Center, noted that while the bureau had pulled back on its earlier pressure to force a 2 million to 4 million acre-foot cut, the pressure remains on the states due to the river’s worsening condition.
“The users understand that. People will still point fingers at each other, but I observe more people stepping up now with proposals. They realize the system could crash and everybody needs to work to avoid that.”
Contact Tony Davis at 520-349-0350 or tdavis@tucson.com. Follow Davis on Twitter@tonydavis987. | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/feds-announce-short-term-cut-in-colorado-river-water-for-arizona/article_7b757bee-1cf8-11ed-9170-77a3a5a1391c.html | 2022-08-17T01:10:16 | 1 | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/feds-announce-short-term-cut-in-colorado-river-water-for-arizona/article_7b757bee-1cf8-11ed-9170-77a3a5a1391c.html |
The Tucson City Council members contained their excitement last week as they talked about how to spend the city's $150 million surplus.
They talked soberly about long-term investments and the need to sustain any initiative they start. They spoke in a stream of acronyms: CSO, FTE, HURF, ARPA, HR and IT.
City Manager Michael Ortega also was in a guardedly celebratory mood.
"To be sitting here having this discussion is something most people dream about," Ortega said. "It’s also a moment in time we have to take advantage of in a very positive way to celebrate, but not be reckless."
Indeed the plan he put forward to start spending the money was sober. It included:
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- Spending $6.5 million to upgrade the city's computer hardware, software and cybersecurity assets.
- Hiring 50 new community service officers at the police department.
- Adding two new brush-and-bulky crews to deal with the cleanup of homeless camps.
It goes on like that. Very dry, very measured, very responsible.
If I were to share that cautious mood, I would take that $150 million and split it, trying to solve our housing and crime problems. That would be getting something serious done.
But really, you can overdo caution. Whatever happened to dreaming big and living large? What's up with all this prudence?
So, to that end, in a spirit of whimsy and recklessness, here are my big ideas for blowing Tucson's $150 million.
Gondola / water slide
People used to talk about a gondola up the side of the Santa Catalinas, but how about instead we build it up the side of "A" Mountain?
That might be a little boring on its own, but for the hot months, we can build a water slide down the side of A Mountain. So people can either take the gondola up and either walk, take the gondola or slide down.
Of course, this is a borderline sacrilegious proposal for the site of Tucson's birthplace. To make the watery plunge fit Tucson's history, we could call it the Acequia Slide and have it splash land in a historically accurate agricultural canal.
And then with the leftover money, we can build a gondola up Mount Lemmon.
Raise the mountain
Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalinas are impressive, but they're not as impressive as they were around 25 million years ago. That's when, geologists believe, extreme heating under the Catalinas caused the underside of the rocky mountaintop to turn liquid, and the rocky top slid west. Eventually it formed the Tucson Mountains.
Don't you think some of the Tucson Mountain peaks would like to return home after all this time? If we were to take, say, Wasson Peak and Cat Mountain, and transport them to the top of Mount Lemmon, it would serve multiple goals:
- A raised and rebuilt Mount Lemmon Ski Valley could get enough snow to stay open for months.
- The high-altitude species endangered by the warming climate would have somewhere higher to go.
- The increasingly crowded mountaintop would have much more cool terrain for Tucsonans to explore.
Flood-escape zip lines
I wouldn't want to ignore public safety. And in this season, our biggest safety problem seems to be flash floods. Over and over, emergency responders end up rescuing people trapped by flood waters in our washes and canyons.
Just the other day, a couple dozen Bear Canyon walkers were trapped behind raging floodwaters — not in imminent danger but unable to get back.
We don't have to stand for this anymore. The solution is zip lines. With $150 million, surely we can outfit every dangerous canyon and wash with zip lines at the crossing points. Those trapped can then simply zip to the other side and be on their way.
You may think these zip lines would be abused in times of low water. True. My solution is to hire some engineers to design a system whereby the zip lines would be locked until floodwaters hit a certain height and power. At that point, the trigger would be released, allowing stranded people to zip to freedom.
This is replicable, of course, at all our dangerous washes.
Tucson 250th birthday blowout
You may have heard the phrase "buy experiences, not things." What I'm proposing here is an experience like none of us has ever had.
Back in the day, one of the biggest events of the year in Tucson was the Fiesta de San Agustin, celebrating the city's patron saint. It was a blowout starting in late August that could last days.
To give you a flavor, the Weekly Citizen reported on Sept. 5, 1885: "The streets were nearly deserted today because everybody had gone to the Park to view the preparations for the opening of the fiesta to-night. It will be a grand time and nine out of every ten people in the city can be found there."
Dancing, drinking, eating — people were all in. As George Hand once described it during the fiesta in his famous saloon diary of the 1870s and 1880s: "I was drunk early and late. Drunk all day. Very drunk. Disgustingly drunk. Everyone is drunk."
But eventually the tradition petered out.
Now, the Tucson presidio was founded Aug. 20, 1775, and we normally celebrate it with some nice but comparatively tame festivities every year.
You see where I'm going with this? Aug. 20, 2025, will be the 250th anniversary. $150 million would go a long ways toward a blowout like no one would ever forget. Music, rides, drinks, food — everything could be free.
Yeah we have problems to solve, but maybe we should spend our money on an incredible experience!
Consolation prize: Geode drop
The consolation prize, for me, would be if the City Council used some pocket change to realize the idea I first came up with five years ago — the Geode Drop.
This is a takeoff on the Pinecone Drop, which Flagstaff holds every New Year's Eve. (And that is a takeoff on New York City's ball drop.)
Either to start the New Year or the Gem, Mineral and Fossil Shows, Tucson should put on a Geode Drop. Imagine a big gray imitation rock, initially large but unimpressive, that gradually splits in half to reveal a glittering, bejeweled inside as it glides to the ground.
This is my least reckless idea and the closest I can come to caution.
Contact columnist Tim Steller at tsteller@tucson.com or 520-807-7789. On Twitter: @senyorreporter | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/tim-stellers-column-forget-caution-lets-blow-tucsons-150-million-surplus/article_61ab6164-1d7b-11ed-b523-bf371111a37c.html | 2022-08-17T01:10:22 | 1 | https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/tim-stellers-column-forget-caution-lets-blow-tucsons-150-million-surplus/article_61ab6164-1d7b-11ed-b523-bf371111a37c.html |
MIDLAND, Texas — The Midland football stadium has a new name as of Aug. 16.
Grande Communications Stadium will now be called Astound Broadband Stadium.
Astound Broadband powered by Grande hosted an unveiling ceremony to present the new name.
Midland Mayor Patrick Payton was on hand for the ribbon cutting.
"When you look at this being one of the most important places where we play Friday Night Football, and sometimes Thursday, and even college teams playing here, it's great to have Astound as a partner for the long haul for Midland," Payton said.
Midland High will be playing on the newly renamed field on Aug. 19 and Legacy on Aug. 26 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/astound-broadband-ribbon-cutting-stadium-renaming/513-8a260302-6a0f-472d-b238-917526d43758 | 2022-08-17T01:12:17 | 1 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/astound-broadband-ribbon-cutting-stadium-renaming/513-8a260302-6a0f-472d-b238-917526d43758 |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas — A boil water notice was put out on Monday on the west side of Ector County after a pipeline issue happened around a construction site.
"The pipe was in the ground for 20 years and is old. On the construction site they have an insufficient support for the pipe," said Tram Doan with the Ector County Utility District.
Which is why the utility district immediately notified the roughly 600 people around Tripp and Dunn whose water may have been contaminated.
"The Ector County Utility District puts our customers at number one priority, if we have a 1% chance there may be a contamination of water, we're going to issue the boil water notice," said Doan.
Right now officials are waiting for tests they did Tuesday morning to come back clean.
"First of all you have to have all the bacteria come back negative," said Doan.
Then they send their test results to the state. Once everything is cleared, the notice can be lifted.
Pipes tend to shift and crack more in the summer months because of the heat, meaning notices are more likely to happen.
The district was quick to respond and fix the problem for the people out in Ector County.
"If you see a boil water notice, it's not bad, we're just extra precautious to make our sure our elderly and our kids are being protected from any chance of contamination in our water," said Doan.
ECUD expects the tests to come back negative for bacteria on Wednesday afternoon. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/ector-county-utility-district-tripp-boil-water-notice/513-59d7ab39-da1a-46d3-882a-cac85bb8b131 | 2022-08-17T01:12:23 | 1 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/ector-county-utility-district-tripp-boil-water-notice/513-59d7ab39-da1a-46d3-882a-cac85bb8b131 |
CADDO MILLS, Texas — Lunch is no longer free for all public school students, after COVID-era waivers from the federal government expired.
"Last year was free, which was a big blessing," Kortney Sandoval, a Caddo Mills mom, told WFAA.
Now that the program's expired, Sandoval said she's looking at spending an extra $200 a month now on school meals for her two kids.
With inflation, Sandoval said, she's feeling the pinch.
And she and her husband make too much to qualify for reduced price lunches, she told WFAA.
"I've thought about getting a second job. I really don't want to, because I already feel like as a mom with two kids and sports, and you know, working, already filled burnout," she said.
Sandoval said she and her husband are fine financially, but would love to be more comfortable.
"And I know we're not the only people that feel like this," she said.
She's right.
In a survey, WFAA asked parents at home if they feel financially ready for the school year: 49% said yes, while 51% said no or somewhere in the middle.
Over in Denton ISD, director of Child Nutrition Liz Raftrey told WFAA that kids will never be turned away for a meal.
"I think there is a perception out there that that because we are going back to paid meals that if the students don't have money they won't be able to eat," she said.
"And in fact that's not the case at all. We will not turn students away we will continue to feed students," she added.
If kids' accounts dip into the negatives, she said, the district will foot the bill.
It often receives some funding for that through private donations, she said. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/free-lunch-no-more-parents-north-texas-prepare-pay-pandemic-era-program-ends/287-8b55c104-ea1f-48d4-8080-06207964e5e4 | 2022-08-17T01:12:48 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/free-lunch-no-more-parents-north-texas-prepare-pay-pandemic-era-program-ends/287-8b55c104-ea1f-48d4-8080-06207964e5e4 |
DALLAS — A new video obtained by WFAA shows another angle of the fatal shooting of a coach at a youth football game in Lancaster over the weekend.
In the video you see the moments before coach Mike Hickmon was shot.
Witnesses say a person wearing a hat and white sneakers in the video is former NFL cornerback, Aqib Talib. They say he walked across the field first to the opposing side.
Coach Heath Mays witnessed what happened.
”He ran across the field and ran over on our sideline and got in the ref's face,” said Mays.
Multiple witnesses say Aqib Talib was the one who started the brawl because he was upset about referees.
"He threw the first punch, and you see Mike trying to defend himself," said Mays.
Then you can hear the gunshots. Lancaster police arrested Aqib Talib’s brother, Yaqub Talib, saying he killed coach Hickmon.
In an arrest affidavit, police say this all started over an argument about the score of the game but doesn’t say who started the fight.
Aqib Talib’s lawyer, Frank Perez, issued a statement saying his client "was present when this unfortunate incident occurred and is very distraught and devasted over this terrible loss of life. He would like to convey his condolences to the family of the victim and to everyone who witnessed this unfortunate tragedy.”
The Talib brothers are no strangers to law enforcement and have been investigated for multiple shootings, including in 2016 when Dallas police believe Aqib Talib was shot at the V Live strip club. Two other people were also shot that night.
Aqib Talib and his brother were also investigated in 2015 after someone fired a gun inside a downtown Dallas night club. Dallas police say the brothers had gotten into a fight.
Police say they couldn’t find enough evidence to charge them with any crimes.
But now, Yaqub Talib is charged with murder while police continue to investigate if any other charges will be filed. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/witnesses-say-aqib-talib-started-brawl-led-to-fatal-shooting-of-youth-coach/287-e313872d-e507-4064-9652-1ea858f6a0d4 | 2022-08-17T01:12:54 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/witnesses-say-aqib-talib-started-brawl-led-to-fatal-shooting-of-youth-coach/287-e313872d-e507-4064-9652-1ea858f6a0d4 |
Two people are seriously wounded and three others are hurt in gunfire that broke out Tuesday night along Haverford Avenue in West Philadelphia, police said.
The five people were shot near the Shepard Recreation Center near 57th Street and Haverford Avenue in the Haddington neighborhood, police said. It was not immediately known how seriously each person was hurt.
It is unclear what led to the shooting, which occurred at about 7:30 p.m.
NBC10's news partner, KYW Newsradio, is reporting that the shooting happened at the rec center, but police did not yet confirm that to NBC10. KYW also reported that a person was taken into custody.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for more details as they become known. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/5-people-shot-near-west-philadelphia-rec-center-police-say/3337322/ | 2022-08-17T01:14:39 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/5-people-shot-near-west-philadelphia-rec-center-police-say/3337322/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Tuesday is National Roller Coaster day and while Oregon and Washington don’t exactly have a surplus of thrilling rides, there are still several theme parks and water parks around the Northwest where people can get their adrenaline surging.
From storybook fantasylands to classic roller coasters to a water park built near hot springs, the Pacific Northwest has a little bit of everything.
Here’s a list of 12 theme parks and water parks to enjoy the next chance you get.
In Oregon:
Enchanted Forest – Located south of Salem, the Enchanted Forest has been a destination for families for more than 50 years. The family owned and operated theme park is set on a hill in the forest. The park took seven years to build before the first section, Storybook Lane, opened in 1971. Other park features include the Tofteville Western Town, Old European Village, Water-light show, Haunted House, Comedy Theatre and adult and children’s rides. The park is open seasonally from late March to the end of September.
Wings & Waves Waterpark – The Wings & Waves Waterpark helps families make an entire weekend out of visiting the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville. The park includes five slides, three pool areas and an Aquaplay structure. On Tuesdays, the park shows family-friendly movies on its giant pool video wall above the wave pool.
Oaks Amusement Park – It’s known as the place “where the fun never ends.” Oaks Park has been in operation since 1905 and is among the oldest continually operating amusement parks in America. Oaks Park is located in Portland and features several rides including the Adrenaline Peak roller coaster, AtmosFEAR, a carousel, Ferris Wheel and the Oaks Park Train. The amusement park also has a popular roller rink and mini golf course.
In Washington:
Wild Waves Theme and Water Park – This theme park is located in Federal Way and features roller coasters, a boat ride and “Brain Drain” – a ride that drops riders from 85 feet in the air. It also has family rides and kids rides, such as a carousel, The Wagon Train, and soaring, spinning planes. The water park has several slides, a wave pool and a lazy river.
Slidewaters Waterpark – Slidewaters in Chelan says it has something for everyone. It offers easy floats around the Lazy River and competitive races on the Downhill Racer. Guests can also ride on several body or tube slides. The 12-acre water park was founded in 1983 and features the world’s largest stationary wave. Guests can reserve 30-minute surf sessions to ride the wave for themselves.
Birch Bay Waterslides – Way up in Northwest Washington lies Birch Bay Waterslides. The small waterpark has been in business for more than 35 years and features eight fast slides, a kiddie pool, hot tub and gift shop.
Surf ‘N Slide Water Park – This water park is run by the city of Moses Lake and is designed for swimmers of all ages and abilities. The city says it’s ideal for vacationers, serious and recreational swimmers, and families. The park features an artificial surfing simulator, a lazy river, a splash pad and two 200-foot water slides.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park – Beat the heat and enjoy the indoor waterslides at the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Grand Mound. The water is kept warm at 84 degrees year-round. The indoor water park features a water playground, a water slide with “gentle curves” and one that descends four stories.
In Idaho:
Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach Water Park – Drive north of Coeur d’Alene on Highway 95 and it’s impossible to miss the giant wooden roller coaster structures at Silverwood Theme Park. The park is known for having some of the best wooden roller coasters in the U.S. The park also features numerous other rides and is connected to the Boulder Beach Water Park. The water park has a lazy river, a wave pool and multiple water slides.
Roaring Springs Water Park – Located in Meridian, Roaring Springs Waterpark is another great summer attraction for families. It features steep slides, spinning slides and slides that twist back and forth. Guests can hang out in the wave pool or ride on the halfpipe-like attraction called “The Avalanche.”
Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark Resort – Idaho has its own indoor water park in Kellogg. Located at Silver Mountain Resort, Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark features a continuous wave to surf, a lazy river, water slides and a rope crossing.
Lava Hot Springs – As the name implies, Lava Hot Springs features some hot water. Its geothermal hot springs range from 102 to 112 degrees. It’s located south of Pocatello and is a place for serious swimmers and people looking to have fun. The park has an Olympic-size outdoor pool, diving platforms and water slides. There’s also an indoor pool and aqua climb area. | https://www.koin.com/local/12-theme-parks-and-water-parks-in-the-pacific-northwest/ | 2022-08-17T01:19:55 | 1 | https://www.koin.com/local/12-theme-parks-and-water-parks-in-the-pacific-northwest/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — One man died after an early morning crash on Tuesday near Donald, Oregon, according to Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Around 6:45 a.m., first responders were dispatched to Ehlen Road NE, east of Butteville Road NE, where 41-year-old Joseph Haener attempted to make a left turn into a driveway, officials said. Police said Heaner, who was driving a 1999 Ford F-150, was hit by an oncoming truck.
Haener was taken to the hospital by Life Flight but succumbed to his injuries, officials said.
Christopher Hutchison, 40, who was driving the oncoming 2017 Ford F-350, was also taken to the hospital but suffered non-life-threatening injuries, MCSO said. | https://www.koin.com/local/marion-county/early-morning-crash-near-donald-leaves-one-dead-one-injured/ | 2022-08-17T01:20:01 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/marion-county/early-morning-crash-near-donald-leaves-one-dead-one-injured/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – A study published by the University of California Berkeley says Portland’s downtown is one of the slowest to recover after the pandemic compared to other larger cities.
The data comes from 62 cities across the U.S. and Canada, with Portland currently ranked 60.
Researchers at U.C. Berkeley mapped two years’ worth of cell phone data to see how many people are going back to downtown businesses such as shops and restaurants.
For the last two years, downtown Portland has consistently ranked in the bottom half, with the exception of one time, at the beginning of the pandemic.
Downtown Portland ranked close to the very bottom starting in September of 2020 after the city experienced a summer of nightly protests that often turned violent.
KOIN 6 News talked to John Horvick with the local polling company, DHM Research, about the concerns about downtown that were in their most recent polling data this spring.
“Visible homelessness, concerns about safety, whether that’s shootings or interacting with people in mental health crisis, trash and litter, boarded up buildings, it’s those sorts of things Portlanders tell us that’s worrisome,” Horvick explained.
The U.C. Berkeley study says downtown Portland has recovered 41% of pre-pandemic traffic.
Only two other cities had a lower recovery rate, Cleveland and San Francisco. | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/study-downtown-portland-among-slowest-cities-to-recover-from-pandemic/ | 2022-08-17T01:20:07 | 0 | https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/study-downtown-portland-among-slowest-cities-to-recover-from-pandemic/ |
ATLANTA — Editor's note: The video above is from a previous 11Alive investigation.
An Atlanta police officer has been indicted in connection to an incident in 2019, where he is accused of breaking a man's ankle.
Officer Donald Vickers was charged on April 5, 2019, with aggravated assault battery and violation of oath by a public officer, the indictment shows.
Vickers' indictment was filed Tuesday in the Fulton County Superior Court. The indictment stems from an incident that 11Alive previously covered in an investigation.
Vickers is accused of using unnecessary force when he tackled Tyler Griffin during a traffic stop in April 2019. As a result, Griffin's left ankle was broken. The newly-released indictment states Griffin's ankle was deemed "useless."
The officer's bodycam video of the incident shows Vickers and another officer approaching Griffin during the traffic stop. They suspected Griffin was drinking and driving at the time. In the bodycam video, you can hear the officers telling Griffin to get out of the car. He complied and he's seen briefly brushing an officer's hand away. Vickers is seen running and tackling Griffin to the ground in response.
Griffin then tries to stand up and walk but isn't able to. Bodycam video shows Vickers mocking his injured ankle as Griffin screams in pain.
"Come on man, you're such a little girl right now," Vickers can be heard saying in the video.
Griffin previously told 11Alive that he didn't understand why the police tackled him. He said he had never been in trouble with officers before.
Griffin's attorneys filed a lawsuit more than a year later on June 15, 2020. Documents obtained by 11Alive show that his lawsuit is still pending.
11Alive reached out to the Atlanta Police Department to check Vickers' employment status. At last check in 2021, he remained an active officer. He has been with the police department since 2006. Click here to read 11Alive's full investigation. | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/apd-officer-donald-vickers-indicted-breaking-mans-ankle/85-71a577c8-b0b8-4e48-8c3c-2097a68ded09 | 2022-08-17T01:32:49 | 0 | https://www.11alive.com/article/news/local/apd-officer-donald-vickers-indicted-breaking-mans-ankle/85-71a577c8-b0b8-4e48-8c3c-2097a68ded09 |
Plane crash that killed 2 in Lake Powell was carrying 6 French tourists
A weekend plane crash that left two dead and injured five others was an air tour carrying six French nationals, according to Utah authorities.
Previous coverage: Small plane crashes into Lake Powell, leaving 2 dead, 5 hurt
Witnesses of the plane crashing into Lake Powell near Face Canyon began calling the National Park Service Dispatch about 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the Kane County Sheriff's Office in Utah said in a statement on Facebook.
The plane was flying out of Page, Arizona, and was registered to American Aviation Inc., which offers tours over Lake Powell.
The Arizona Republic reached out to the company for comment. A representative said "any further information" will come from the Federal Aviation Administration or the National Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating the crash.
The pilot reported an issue with the engine before the plane crashed into the lake, according to the Kane County Sheriff's Office statement. Four passengers were pulled from the lake by the pilot and nearby witnesses, but two others died and remained inside the submerged plane.
The identities of the victims have not been released.
The National Park Service located the plane in about 120 feet of water and divers with the Utah Department of Public Safety were able to recover the bodies, the statement said.
The investigation is ongoing, the Kane County Sheriff's Office said, and the FAA and NTSB are in charge of the plane crash while the Sheriff's Office is responsible for the death investigation.
Reach criminal justice reporter Gloria Rebecca Gomez at grgomez@gannett.com or on Twitter @glorihuh.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-breaking/2022/08/16/6-french-tourists-on-plane-that-crashed-into-lake-powell/10342792002/ | 2022-08-17T01:32:51 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-breaking/2022/08/16/6-french-tourists-on-plane-that-crashed-into-lake-powell/10342792002/ |
Here are 5 takeaways from the new drought guidelines on the Colorado River
The federal government announced new limits Tuesday on how much water the Southwest can take from the shrinking Colorado River and top officials were clear about the stakes.
"To avoid a catastrophic collapse of the Colorado River system and a future of uncertainty and conflict, water use in the basin must be reduced,” said Tanya Trujillo, assistant secretary for water and science in the Interior Department.
Two decades of drought and the growing effects of climate change have pushed the river beyond its limits. The two largest reservoirs, Lake Powell and Lake Mead, sit at one-quarter full and water levels have fallen at a pace that has surprised many of the experts.
The government's operating guidelines were based on existing agreements among the seven states that draw water from the river, so there were no real surprises. Arizona, Nevada and Mexico will feel the brunt of the restrictions and, in Arizona, farmers will take the deepest cuts.
Here are five key takeaways from Tuesday's announcement:
1. The numbers tell a bleak story
The revised operating guidelines were expected because they're based on data, specifically the water levels at Lake Mead and Lake Powell. The numbers helped illustrate the risks of waiting too long.
The Bureau of Reclamation projects that Lake Powell will sit at 3,522 feet above sea level on Jan. 1. That's just 32 feet above the minimum level needed to run the power plant at Glen Canyon Dam.
If the lake drops below that minimum, the turbines will shut down. That would mean the loss of electric power and force the bureau to shore up other ways to keep water flowing through the dam downstream to Lake Mead. If water can't get past Glen Canyon Dam, the Colorado would no longer flow through the Grand Canyon.
New plan:Arizona loses one-fifth of its Colorado River allocation under new federal drought plan
Lake Mead will start 2023 at a physical elevation of just under 1,041 feet above sea level. That's 25 feet lower than Jan. 1, 2022, and 173 feet lower than Jan. 1, 2000, when the two reservoirs were at capacity.
The bureau will monitor all these numbers through 2023 and could adjust river operations if water levels don't rebound.
2. Arizona, Nevada and Mexico will take the biggest hits now
Starting Jan. 1, Arizona will reduce the amount of water it takes from the river by 592,000 acre-feet, or about 22% of the state's allocation. Nevada will lose 25,000 acre-feet and Mexico will give up 104,000 acre-feet.
California will not take any cuts as of now.
That arrangement is rooted in an agreement made decades ago when Arizona needed California's support to build the Central Arizona Project, the canal that moves water from the Colorado River to Phoenix, Tucson and Pinal County. Arizona agreed to assign that water lower priority rights, which would delay cutbacks in California.
The cuts announced Tuesday were a part of a 2007 drought response plan and a more recent drought contingency plan.
Arizona officials would like to see other states absorb some of the pain if the feds seek deeper cuts in the next few years, but so far, negotiations have failed.
"It is unacceptable for Arizona to continue to carry a disproportionate burden of reductions for the benefit of others who have not contributed," said Tom Buschatzke, director of the state water resources, and Ted Cooke, general manager of the CAP.
3. Most Arizonans won't face water limits
Once again, Arizona farmers will take the hardest hit from water cutbacks. Starting Jan. 1 of this year, growers in Pinal County lost their access to water from the CAP and that won't change in 2023.
Most Arizona cities deliver a mix of water from the Colorado River and the Salt and Verde rivers, where conditions are better. Even if there is less water for municipal providers — and it's not known if that will be the case — the cities have a cushion that will protect residential users from cutbacks.
Phoenix declared what it called a Stage 1 Water Alert, but focused on water conservation steps, especially outdoors. City officials don't anticipate any mandated limits on use in the coming year.
The CAP doesn't supply cities outside Maricopa, Pinal and Pima counties.
Arizona lawmakers earlier this year approved a plan to spend more than $1 billion to augment water supplies and encourage conservation.
4. Tribal communities will continue to play a role
As Arizona and other states have discussed ways to stretch the river's supply, they have been joined at the table more frequently by leaders of tribal communities, who have leveraged their own allocations to delay deeper cutbacks.
The Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Gila River Indian Community have both previously left portions of their river shares in Lake Mead, helping maintain water levels in the reservoir and ensuring that Arizona could meet its obligations under a drought contingency plan.
But Gila River officials said Tuesday they were dissatisfied with the pace of negotiations and have decided to re-evaluate their involvement, storing water underground rather than leaving it in the reservoir.
And some tribal leaders voiced concerns that they were being left out of the latest round of talks and wrote a letter to the Interior Department, seeking to protect their interests as water use is curtailed.
Tribal communities were excluded from major decisions regarding water for decades, from the first major agreement on the river, the 1922 Colorado River Compact.
5. The Interior Department left the door open for deeper cuts
Testifying before a Senate committee in June, Camille Calimlim Touton, commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, said the Colorado River system had reached a tipping point and told lawmakers significant conservation measures would be required to protect water users and infrastructure. She suggested the seven states might have to cut 2 million to 4 million acre-feet, a level the states feared they could not achieve.
On Tuesday, the government outlined a plan that would reduce deliveries to Arizona, Nevada and Mexico by a combined 721,000 acre-feet, amounts agreed to earlier by the states, but did not demand any further reductions immediately.
But the bureau made it clear that depending on snowpack and runoff in the coming winter seasons, more conservation would be required, with cutbacks in the range of 600,000 to 4.2 million acre-feet a year.
Arizona's annual allocation is 2.8 million acre-feet. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2022/08/16/colorado-river-drought-plan-imposes-cuts-arizona-but-not-homes/10340966002/ | 2022-08-17T01:32:52 | 1 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2022/08/16/colorado-river-drought-plan-imposes-cuts-arizona-but-not-homes/10340966002/ |
Fundraising campaign kicks off to raise $550k for Phoenix Victim's Center improvements
The City of Phoenix, along with the Phoenix Police Department and the Phoenix Police Foundation, announced the renovation of the Phoenix Victim's Center located in the Family Advocacy Center building on Tuesday.
The Phoenix Victim's Center houses detectives, nurses, advocates and support spaces for those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. It opened in1999 and hasn’t seen any improvements in more than a decade.
City leadership, including Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams and Phoenix Police Foundation President Tim Thomas, debuted the $550,000 fundraising campaign to remodel the center in central Phoenix.
“The Family Investigations Bureau, where we are today, sees over 2,400 sexual assault and domestic violence victims a year,” Thomas said. “This new space will provide a more welcoming environment with formal interview rooms, private meeting rooms, and a passthrough into the forensic nurse exam room, allowing victims more security and safety.”
Jessica Nicely, founder of the non-profit group Winged Hope, explained that a center like this would have helped during her own experience with domestic violence.
"I grew up as an invisible victim, witnessing domestic violence on a regular basis between my father and my step-mother, so I can tell you first-hand the importance of a family advocacy center," Nicely said.
She explained that though the $550,000 price tag on renovations might sound high, the benefit that a place like this could have had on her own life is beyond the cost.
"I could have been spared years and years and years of abuse had there been a family advocacy center when I was growing up, had someone brought me to a place like the Phoenix Advocacy Center," Nicely said.
The renovations would include more video surveillance, an alert lighting system, and added workspace, desks, chairs and other office supplies for detectives at the center, Thomas said.
“This new and upgraded equipment will enhance our investigative capabilities and and improve the quality of work our men and women do day in and day out,” Chief Williams said. “It’s imperative that we help our victim’s to feel safe and comfortable, and feel as though they can express themselves on what is one of the worst days of their lives.”
The Phoenix Police Department presented the renovation project to the foundation last year and City Council approved it at their July 1 meeting.
Thomas said the renovations will be entirely funded by donations and should be finished by the end of the year.
Auto Pros Collision Center presented a check of $50,000 that was matched by a private donor that wished to remain anonymous. With those donations, funding is at already around $120,000, said Thomas.
The department and the foundation decided to use donations to fund these renovations because it was the fastest way to get them done, according to Thomas.
“With a lot of things, foundations, private funding, private partners and public partners can expedite things,” Thomas said. “We knew that through private funding and the community, we could do this in the most expeditious way. And that's really why we got involved.”
The center will stay open during the renovations, which should finish by the end of the year, according to Thomas.
Reach crime reporter Miguel Torres at Miguel.Torres@arizonarepublic.com or on Twitter @TheMiguelTorres. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2022/08/16/phoenix-police-foundation-starts-fundraiser-improve-victims-center/10333681002/ | 2022-08-17T01:32:52 | 0 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2022/08/16/phoenix-police-foundation-starts-fundraiser-improve-victims-center/10333681002/ |
1-year-old abandoned on side of road after being taken in vehicle theft
A mother has been reunited with her 1-year-old toddler who was found abandoned on the side of a Tucson road after the child was taken Tuesday when a vehicle was stolen.
According to Tucson police, a 7:30 a.m. call came in about a 1-year-old boy being found on the side of the road on East 28th Street near East Turney Avenue. A 7:20 a.m. call had come in about a stolen vehicle with a boy in the back seat being taken from a convenience store near South Wilmot Road and East Nicaragua Drive, according to police.
The boy was uninjured. The mom identified him and the child was handed over to her, according to police. The child was alone in the vehicle when the theft occurred, and the car was not taken by force, police said.
The stolen SUV, a white 2010 GMC Acadia, was not located as of Tuesday afternoon, police said. The Acadia's Arizona license plate is AXA99J, police disclosed.
The suspect or suspects are unknown, police said on Tuesday afternoon, and anyone with information was asked to call 88-CRIME (520-882-7463).
Reach breaking news reporter Jose R. Gonzalez at jose.gonzalez@gannett.com or on Twitter @jrgzztx.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/pinal-breaking/2022/08/16/baby-abandoned-tucson-road-following-vehicle-theft/10343384002/ | 2022-08-17T01:32:53 | 0 | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/pinal-breaking/2022/08/16/baby-abandoned-tucson-road-following-vehicle-theft/10343384002/ |
PORTLAND, Maine — Starbucks located at 176 Middle Street in Portland has filed to unionize, joining Biddeford to become the second Starbucks in Maine to form a union.
According to a Starbucks Workers United Twitter post on Tuesday, this is the first Starbucks store in Portland to form a union, and the second in the state.
The Starbucks store on Alfred Street in Biddeford previously unionized in mid-July with a 9-3 vote.
Starbucks Workers United has helped organize dozens of Starbucks locations ever since a store in Buffalo, New York, became the first one to successfully unionize last fall. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/portland/portland-starbucks-second-to-unionize-in-maine-business/97-c3ff3679-df65-42de-a327-b7637de8061a | 2022-08-17T01:36:16 | 0 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/portland/portland-starbucks-second-to-unionize-in-maine-business/97-c3ff3679-df65-42de-a327-b7637de8061a |
LAWRENCE COUNTY, WV (WOWK) — The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office in Kentucky says a fatal shooting occurred in the Peach Orchard area on Tuesday around 6:20 a.m.
The Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene after reports of shots fired, possibly related to a burglary.
When deputies arrived, a witness said one of the suspects, Jerry Lee Maynard, of Lawrence County, was found in the woods by the property owner. Maynard then disarmed the property owner, and a fight over the gun ensued, according to the Sheriff’s Office. During the struggle, Maynard was shot and pronounced dead on the scene by the Lawrence County Corner.
After further investigation, law enforcement obtained a warrant for the second suspect, Green Ramey, 42, also of Lawrence County. The Sheriff’s Office says Green was arrested without a struggle and taken to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.
This incident is still under investigation by Chief Deputy M. Keefer of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/fatal-shooting-in-lawrence-county-kentucky/ | 2022-08-17T01:41:13 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/fatal-shooting-in-lawrence-county-kentucky/ |
SMITHERS, WV (WOWK) — Flood relief sites are now open in some of the areas impacted by Monday’s storm.
Smithers, West Virginia, was one area hit particularly hard, and now they are in the relief phase.
For hours, some volunteers were at the old Valley High School bagging, stacking, and loading items for the victims.
Some of the donated items available for people were hygiene products like soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and cleaning supplies like bleach, mops, brooms, and full cleaning kits.
And one person who stopped by to donate items says she hates to see her community so hurt like this.
“I grew up in this community,” said Christina Francis, the Resource Coordinator for Fayette County Starting Points. “I went to the high school here, this is where I graduated at, this is where my daughter went to middle school, so this is my community, and I’m always willing to help out.”
There was also a station for people to get their Tetanus and Hepatitis A shots, and nurses said they gave around 55 shots per hour.
“Tetanus shot is very important whether you’re been just helping,” said Michelle Underwood, the Director of Nursing for the Nicholas County Health Department. “If you get a cut, which we know that there’s metal out there, that helps with the infection. With hepatitis A, there has been some water infections that we’re aware of, and we are encouraging those in those areas to come and get their hepatitis A vaccine.”
Organizers said the area is under a boil water advisory, so no one is able to use the tap water at all.
The site will be open again Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/flood-relief-site-opens-in-smithers-west-virginia/ | 2022-08-17T01:41:19 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/flood-relief-site-opens-in-smithers-west-virginia/ |
KANAWHA COUNTY, WV (WOWK) — It has been over 24 hours since floodwaters came rushing through Kanawha County, destroying homes and leaving behind debris.
The floodwater has begun to recede across the county, but residents along Greenbrier Street said their homes are still underwater.
“There’s eight inches of water in my house,” said Joyce Evans, Greenbrier Street Resident. “I’m going to have to get rid of a whole lot of memories, but things happen.”
Evans, as well as other residents, said the problem is not only the flooding itself, but also a collapsed culvert located down the street from their homes.
According to residents, the culvert located at the Capitol Flea Market collapsed in April, but nothing has been done about it for months. Now, they are the ones suffering the repercussions.
“I never had a problem until that fell in, so I’m hoping they can get it fixed,” Evans said. “If it rains again, I may be hurting, but we’re just trying to do the best we can.”
Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango confirmed that the culvert is the cause of the recurring water on Greenbrier Street, and he said the county is actively fixing the problem.
On Tuesday, Aug. 16, the county issued an emergency notice to Jaime Fuentes, who leases the property, as well as John Meadows Jr. and Darlene Meadows, who own the property, where the culvert is located.
The notice reads, “Your property is the site of recurring flooding on Greenbrier Street which poses an imminent and ongoing threat to public health, safety and welfare.”
The notice also advises Fuentes and John and Darlene Meadows to contact the Kanawha County Planning Department immediately with an acceptable corrective plan of action.
13 News reached out to Fuentes and John Meadows Tuesday afternoon, who both said the other is responsible for maintenance on the property, but with this emergency notice, they will both have to clean up the mess. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/greenbrier-street-in-charleston-still-underwater-from-flooding/ | 2022-08-17T01:41:25 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/greenbrier-street-in-charleston-still-underwater-from-flooding/ |
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — On Wednesday, the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department (KCHD) will offer free tetanus shots to people working in the Eastern Kanawha County flash flood zone.
A team from the health department will be administering the shots at Point Lick Gospel Tabernacle, located at 187 Point Lick Drive in Charleston, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
KCHD has a limited supply of vaccines that will be given on a first come, first serve basis.
The health department says another shipment of the vaccine is expected to come later this week. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/kanawha-charleston-health-department-giving-free-tetanus-shots-for-local-flood-workers/ | 2022-08-17T01:41:32 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/kanawha-charleston-health-department-giving-free-tetanus-shots-for-local-flood-workers/ |
DES MOINES, Iowa — President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act Aug. 16. The massive piece of legislation aims to fight climate change, lower healthcare costs and raise taxes on major corporations.
But even though it tackles so much, one expert says there's time until consumers feel any effects.
"There's a lot in this bill, but not much of it is targeted directly at consumers," said Matthew Mitchell, an associate professor of international business and strategy at Drake University. "That spending from the U.S. government is going to take time to have an impact. We're not going to see an immediate impact right away."
Mitchell adds there is some funding in the plan that's earmarked for rural development, which he believes could eventually be a plus for Iowans.
"There is potentially a play that it could reduce the price of soybeans and corn, which would reduce sort of the input costs for a lot of the goods that we consume, and that would, you know, go towards reducing inflation, but we're just not going to see that right away," he said.
So what does Mitchell believe will combat inflation at a faster pace?
"I think the Fed has taken some really good actions recently to move in that right direction," said Mitchell. "But they were behind the ball, they got caught in some ways unaware. We would like inflation to be addressed by the Fed, not by the legislature."
While interest rates have risen, Mitchell says it will take time to trickle down to every day consumers. He also notes there have been some indicators of inflation slightly easing, whether that's in gas or airfare prices.
While it may take some time, Mitchell says that doesn't mean the Inflation Reduction Act won't have an impact on the prices you pay.
"Just like anything else with Washington, we just have to wait and see how the impact of this bill trickles down to the average citizen, the average Iowan," he said. | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/biden-signs-inflation-reduction-act-iowa-impact/524-32f285f4-a927-43a5-bf5d-10b9e61c2b21 | 2022-08-17T01:41:35 | 1 | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/biden-signs-inflation-reduction-act-iowa-impact/524-32f285f4-a927-43a5-bf5d-10b9e61c2b21 |
WASHINGTON, DC (WOWK) — On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is giving a $2 million grant to the city of Ironton for necessary roadway and water infrastructure upgrades. The goal of the funding is to help attract new business to the city’s main industrial area.
Sen. Brown helped write and pass the legislation that made the funds possible.
“Ohio’s communities and families face a heavy burden when trying to pay for upgrades to local infrastructure,” Brown said. “Thanks to the American Rescue Plan, these funds will help Ironton provide residents with improved road and water infrastructure while creating jobs and attracting new investment to the community.”
The grant will provide reliable water service and the redevelopment of South Third Street, supporting growth in the South Ironton Industrial Park. The investment will be matched with $734,374 in local funds and is estimated to create 360 jobs, maintain 30 jobs, and generate $22 million in private investment,
“We are humbled that our leaders at the federal government recognize our need for critical infrastructure to grow our business community. We are thankful for President Biden’s American Rescue Plan which has empowered EDA to invest in Ironton’s economic future, and we are grateful to Senator Sherrod Brown’s office for their efforts in helping Ironton pursue this grant opportunity,” said Ironton Mayor Samuel Cramblit. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/sen-brown-announces-2-million-grant-for-ironton-ohio/ | 2022-08-17T01:41:38 | 0 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/sen-brown-announces-2-million-grant-for-ironton-ohio/ |
IOWA, USA — Jennifer Upah-Kyes celebrated her 50th birthday in 2022. She's used a hearing aid for 49 of them, but they come at a cost that quickly adds up.
According to her, the average pair of hearing aids costs between $5,000 and $7,000 which is often not covered by insurance.
Upah-Kyes is the executive director of Thrive Together, a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing and have hearing loss.
"Some are forced to have cochlear Implants, some cannot secure a job to pay for hearing aids. For our agency, deaf survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assaults, the perp tends to take their aids away, damage them or break them. Survivors cannot afford to replace them and they are left without a way to hear," she said.
The FDA announced a new rule Tuesday that will allow Americans to buy hearing aids over-the-counter.
The decision allows people with mild to moderate hearing loss to buy a hearing aid at pharmacies or retail stores without the need for a medical exam or fitting from an audiologist.
Nearly 29 million U.S. adults would benefit from hearing aids, but only about 14% of Americans with hearing loss actually use them, according to the Hearing Health Foundation. And that's not just counting people who are born needing them, either.
"It’s widespread," Upah-Kyes said. "Think of elders, military vets, in addition to deaf and hard of hearing babies, youth and adults across the nation. Other counties with less opportunities cannot afford them, let alone get them."
Upah-Kyes told Local 5 she hopes the decision today will help bring down prices for people with hearing loss across the country. But just making them more affordable and accessible is only half the battle.
"With any type of technology, people try to find ways to make the cell phone or microphone better, or a lighter laptop, or any audio louder. We should try to find alternative ways to purchase hearing aids, make them louder and so forth," she said.
The FDA ruling takes effect 60 days after being published; that means that the expanded hearing aid sales should be available in mid-October. | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/fda-over-the-counter-otc-hearing-aid/524-69d4393d-59c4-4207-b007-fa48e5ac0e00 | 2022-08-17T01:41:41 | 1 | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/fda-over-the-counter-otc-hearing-aid/524-69d4393d-59c4-4207-b007-fa48e5ac0e00 |
DES MOINES, Iowa — Local 5 and CW Iowa 23 are bringing exciting 2022 Iowa State Fair experiences to you, from live newscasts to an interactive Local 5 Weather Lab experience. Come see us in front of the Administration Building (Grand Concourse) each day between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.
On day 6 of the Iowa State Fair, a competition like no other took place, with men lining up to have their facial hair measured.
The prize? The title of the longest beard at the fairgrounds.
For some competitors, the event is an amusing fair tradition.
"I usually come about every year. Just cause it's fun and something to do," one contestant said.
Another joins in on the fun because, after all, it only takes one requirement to qualify: a beard.
"I was in the army for six years. And after doing that, I just let it grow once I got out," he said.
One hopeful participant said that the transition to a long beard came as a change to his normal routine.
"When I was growing up, I'd grow it out in the wintertime, but my mom hated beards. So for mother's day, I'd always shave it off. But I always wanted to see what it'd be like if I grew up for a whole year," he told Local 5. "And I finally did and then it was just like, 'Well, I'm not shaving starting in August, September, like I'm not gonna shave it off then,' and so I just let it go."
But for this year's champion, Mark Bandonselaar, winning that blue ribbon was a few years coming — he'd entered the last three years hoping to win.
"I have never trimmed it actually. It just grows. This is nine years old. I've had a beard forever though. Well, the last time I shaved it off, Aiden was 1 and he's 18. It just grows."
Mark took the win with a beard of 41 and 7/8 inches.
His victory was over the reigning champion, Harold Stephenson from Centerpoint, Iowa, who had brought home victory every year since 2009.
Watch a throwback fair competition below: | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/state-fair/iowa-state-fair-longest-beard-competition-winner/524-6b115f2d-1a60-493b-a99a-a4e084d708e6 | 2022-08-17T01:41:47 | 0 | https://www.weareiowa.com/article/news/local/state-fair/iowa-state-fair-longest-beard-competition-winner/524-6b115f2d-1a60-493b-a99a-a4e084d708e6 |
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Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/nj-animal-sanctuary-welcomes-four-big-cats/3337240/ | 2022-08-17T01:45:16 | 1 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/nj-animal-sanctuary-welcomes-four-big-cats/3337240/ |
A Mason City man has changed is plea for his role in a 2021 crash that left a local cyclist dead.
Cody William Skiye, 29, pleaded guilty on Monday to felony vehicular homicide charges stemming from the June 5, 2021, in rural Cerro Gordo County in which James Alton Powel, 62, was killed.
According to court documents, shortly before midnight, Skiye was operating his 2010 Dodge Ram under the influence of alcohol, when he struck Powell from behind. Powell's bicycle was equipped with proper lighting for nighttime travel.
Skiye was initially arrested for OWI 2nd offense, aggravated misdemeanor, making a false report to law enforcement, no insurance, and operating a motor vehicle too closely to a bicycle.
Powell died of his injuries on June 11, 2021, and Skiye's OWI charges were amended to homicide by vehicle.
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A sentencing hearing has been set for 2 p.m., Monday, Sept. 26. The homicide charge carries with it mandatory prison time.
Lisa Grouette is the Local News Editor and Photo Editor at the Globe Gazette. Reach her at 641-421-0525 or lisa.grouette@globegazette.com. Follow Lisa on Twitter @LisaGrouette. | https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/north-iowa-man-changes-plea-in-homicide-case/article_fc572ca7-1381-5dbb-b19c-3b42561d5f03.html | 2022-08-17T01:46:20 | 0 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/north-iowa-man-changes-plea-in-homicide-case/article_fc572ca7-1381-5dbb-b19c-3b42561d5f03.html |
An improper discharge of water led to a fine for the Mason City Community School District.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources issued an $8,000 administrative penalty against Mason City schools, but Henkel Construction will pay the fine. The penalty was issued due to violations of Mason City's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System stormwater permit.
"It's not a fine that Mason City schools is going to pay, that's a fine that the contractor will pay. Because we are the holder of the property, it appears as if it's our fine, and it is no fault of Mason City schools," Superintendent Pat Hamilton told the school board at its Monday night meeting.
On Nov. 19, the DNR received a complaint that water was flowing from a storm drain outfall into the Winnebago River east of Mason City High School, according to the DNR consent order. Following this complaint, the DNR learned the city of Mason City had received several complaints and discharge could be seen from Asbury Park.
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During construction of the natatorium project as workers were digging the pool they hit clay, and it started to fill up with water, according to Hamilton. Workers began pumping water out of the pool and into the storm sewer.
"You can do that, but you've got to have like this ring of straw around it. They didn't have it there to start with," said Hamilton.
Landon Perkins, the site superintendent and an employee of Henkel Construction, met with DNR staff and showed them the area where they had been pumping. Perkins said he was aware storm water sediment was reaching the river and caused the discoloration but was unaware that it was problematic, according to DNR documents. Perkins explained the drain had a wattle -- a fence or material used to control sediments at construction sites -- but it had failed and water flowed through it.
Perkins said they received a new wattle before the DNR arrived on site, and the pump had been turned off. The DNR instructed Perkins to dispose of the water in a different manner prior to further pumping.
"That was the violation, and then the DNR then determines a fine based on the violation," said Hamilton.
The DNR did a follow-up investigation on Nov. 22, and Perkins said the outlet hose for the sump pump had been rerouted to the grass area, according to DNR documents.
"I spoke with the DNR lawyer, and then we'll set it up directly. It won't pass at all through our books," said Hamilton to the school board.
Pat Hamilton has big goals for the school system.
Abby covers education and entertainment for the Globe Gazette. Follow her on Twitter at @MkayAbby. Email her at Abby.Koch@GlobeGazette.com | https://globegazette.com/news/local/dnr-issues-penalty-against-mason-city-community-school-district/article_fe1d6a5d-acdc-57ca-9202-08e0aae55ee6.html | 2022-08-17T01:46:22 | 1 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/dnr-issues-penalty-against-mason-city-community-school-district/article_fe1d6a5d-acdc-57ca-9202-08e0aae55ee6.html |
The Riverhawk has landed.
Mason City Community School District has revealed the athletic logo to go with its new mascot. From football helmets to golf polos, the new Riverhawk logo will be displayed on all sports apparel.
"Whatever Riverhawk is used will hopefully be the correct Riverhawk," said Superintendent Pat Hamilton at Monday night's school board meeting.
The logo has been shared with local vendors in the area for decor and swag items.
Assistant Superintendent Bridgette Wagoner said car decals are being made for Mason City fans to display their Riverhawk pride. They can be found in front offices at the high school. Wagoner added that high school students and staff will receive shirts with the new logo as a welcome-back gift.
"We are trying to make it fun and exciting this year with a pep rally (for the staff) and we're handing out car decals," said Wagoner.
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The official athletic logo already can be seen on profile photos for Mason City athletics' social media accounts and signage.
Along with the logos, vendors received the official style guide and the already in-use general district logo. The style guide will help make the district's branding more uniform.
Juice Box, the company responsible for the district style guide, will use the logos in the new website for Mason City schools.
The Riverhawk replaces the former Mason City "Mohawks," after the school board voted in late 2021 to retire the Native American moniker.
"Riverhawks" became the present mascot earlier this year, after a vote was held among Mason City students, and the student vote was unanimously affirmed by the board.
Pat Hamilton has big goals for the school system.
Abby covers education and entertainment for the Globe Gazette. Follow her on Twitter at @MkayAbby. Email her at Abby.Koch@GlobeGazette.com | https://globegazette.com/news/local/mason-city-schools-reveals-athletic-logo/article_12026b54-3422-5b6f-8608-f11d1af5ef26.html | 2022-08-17T01:46:28 | 1 | https://globegazette.com/news/local/mason-city-schools-reveals-athletic-logo/article_12026b54-3422-5b6f-8608-f11d1af5ef26.html |
Tuesday night’s Hanover County School Board meeting regarding a proposed transgender policy quickly became tense as the third speaker was ushered out by a deputy while addressing the board.
Resident Wendy Kersey was talking about the local organization Hanover Patriots, which had a strong presence at the meeting and generally supports the policy. She was interrupted by School Board Chair John Axselle III, who asked her to stay on topic. The two spoke over each other, and Kersey was ushered away by a deputy as she spoke about Alliance Defending Freedom, the conservative legal advocacy organization that largely wrote the proposed transgender policy.
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The Hanover County School Board listened to more than three dozen residents give their input on the controversial proposed policy regarding transgender students’ access to restrooms and locker rooms.
The proposed policy, which was introduced last week, would require transgender students and their guardians to submit a written request to school administration asking for access to restrooms, locker rooms or changing facilities that align with the students’ gender identities.
Speakers who criticized the policy called it an evil, discriminatory method of bullying. Residents who spoke in favor of the policy called it an equitable compromise.
According to the proposed policy, the required written request may contain several personal documents including students’ disciplinary or criminal records or signed statements from the students’ doctors or therapists “verifying that the student has been diagnosed with gender dysphoria and/or that the student consistently and authentically expresses a binary gender identity.” School Board Attorney Lisa Seward clarified last week that the documents suggested in the policy are not required.
When the policy was proposed at last week’s School Board meeting, board members did not converse about the policy as was expected by many because the item being described was a discussion item on the agenda. The discussion was limited to a presentation by Seward, who said the proposal was largely drafted by the Arizona-based organization Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal advocacy organization with expressed anti-LGBTQ views. The board voted in March to allow ADF to review its policy.
The ACLU of Virginia, which filed a lawsuit against the Hanover School Board in December, said in a statement that the proposed policy is appalling, invasive and discriminatory.
“HCSB has failed at every turn to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all its students,” the statement reads in part. “Singling out transgender students and requiring them to go through a burdensome process perpetuates the stigma and harm that has contributed to the alarming suicide and self-harm rates amongst transgender youth”
It has been almost a year since the Hanover County School Board controversy surrounding the treatment of transgender students began. According to a statewide law, the Hanover School Board should have adopted an appropriate policy regarding the treatment of transgender and nonbinary students by Sept. 7, 2021 — the first day of last school year.
The School Board in November voted to implement a policy that covered some parts of the requirements but stopped short of language involving transgender students’ access to bathrooms.
Per a School Board policy, the allotted time was supposed to be capped at one hour, but the board’s chair allowed speakers to continue past 8 p.m.
The board is scheduled to vote on the proposed policy at a special meeting on August 30. | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/dozens-of-hanover-residents-speak-on-hanover-transgender-policy-in-overtime-meeting/article_8719af03-2d51-5d4b-9029-450acc6cb185.html | 2022-08-17T01:51:39 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/education/dozens-of-hanover-residents-speak-on-hanover-transgender-policy-in-overtime-meeting/article_8719af03-2d51-5d4b-9029-450acc6cb185.html |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The recent heat coupled with the ozone pollution has created bad air quality in the region and prompted the first "Spare the Air Day" declaration of the year on Tuesday.
This year's campaign is focused on the individual actions each person can take and how it can make a big impact in the region.
For some, that could mean working from home one day per week. When you add up a hot summer day, several drivers on the road and little wind movement, the Sacramento area has the perfect recipe for the first "Spare the Air Day" of the year.
"The air quality concern is ground-level ozone pollutant. That is what is created when emissions from cars and trucks cook in the hot summer sun -also when there's a strong inversion layer and not enough wind to blow that pollution out," said Emily Allshouse, assistant communications and marketing specialist with the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District.
The program is in partnership with the Sacramento air district and other air districts in the Sacramento region.
Allshouse described the Sacramento Valley as a bowl where pollutants tend to get trapped by clouds that act like a lid. It can cause a variety of respiratory issues.
"From coughing and wheezing, maybe some itchy eyes, but if you have asthma, you can be particularly affected. If you have heart and lung conditions, you might also be particularly affected. Children, pregnant women, elderly adults - all are in vulnerable populations," Allshouse said.
However, Anthony Wexler, the director of the Air Quality Research Center at UC Davis, says anyone can be impacted. He says, if possible, people should stay indoors and that it's not a good idea to exercise right now.
People are also asked not to drive their car and to instead try carpooling when possible.
"We also want to prevent an additional cause of concern from the environment. We don't want to see ground-level ozone rising for many days in a row because we can experience more serious health problems when we're exposed long-term," Allshouse said.
Allshouse says they do not expect to call a 'Spare the Air Day' tomorrow because they're expecting more wind in the area, but with this heat expected to continue, it is possible this will not be the last alert.
WATCH ALSO: | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/spare-the-air-day-sacramento-region/103-962414f7-31ba-48e6-bcde-c719b15875cc | 2022-08-17T01:55:07 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/spare-the-air-day-sacramento-region/103-962414f7-31ba-48e6-bcde-c719b15875cc |
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott gives $700K to Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio
Billionaire MacKenzie Scott has donated $700,000 to Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio.
The money will allow the local JA to significantly reach more local students in teaching them how to manage their money and teach them about career opportunities, the local chapter's president said Tuesday.
Lori McCleese, president of Junior Achievement North Central Ohio based in Stark County's Jackson Township, said representatives of Scott contacted her in July. In a communication, her foundation told McCleese that Scott wanted to give the local chapter $700,000. The donation is among a total $38.8 million Scott has given Junior Achievement USA and 26 chapters in the U.S., according to a statement issued Tuesday by Junior Achievement North Central Ohio. It's the largest gift in the national organization's 103-year history.
More:Canton, Akron Goodwill groups get big donations from MacKenzie Scott
More:Habitat for Humanity gets a $4.5 million from MacKenzie Scott
McCleese said that her chapter has already received the funds, and they come with no restrictions on how they might be used. She said it's the largest one-time gift the chapter, which now covers 16 Ohio counties, has received since it was founded in the 1950s. The record before Scott's gift was $270,000 over two years from the Burton D. Morgan Foundation. The donation is a little more than half of the chapter's annual $1.3 million budget.
"We experienced so much growth over the past two years. That can be a little daunting to manage the growth, so the gift came at a great time. I was ecstatic. Because at the end of the day what it means is we’ll be able to reach more students," McCleese said. "It was a wonderful surprise. ... I love the way (Scott) is researching existing nonprofits and investing her philanthropic dollars in organizations that are already doing great work. And she’s clearly focused on youth development and economic empowerment."
Plans for the MacKenzie Scott money for Junior Achievement
McCleese said she and her chapter's board have not yet decided what to do with all of the money. She's working on proposing a new three-year strategic plan.
The chapter likely would use part of the gift to hire an additional program manager to oversee more of the agency's programs at local schools. Scott's gift allows that hiring to take place about a year ahead of schedule. That could allow the local JA's reach to expand from 22,000 students to more than 30,000 per school year.
That would free up McCleese, who has taught some of the programs, to focus more on fundraising and recruiting volunteer career professionals to teach the programs to students who are mainly grades 6 through 12. The programs include in-person instruction, remote instruction and videos shot by local volunteer professionals.
Scott, a novelist, co-founder of Amazon with her ex, Jeff Bezos, has contributed billions of dollars to nonprofit organizations around the U.S. the past two years. That includes $4.5 million to Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio earlier this year. And $10 million for Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio late in 2020.
More:MacKenzie Scott has donated more than $12 billion
Gift comes amid Junior Achievement growth
McCleese said when she became president of the Junior Achievement North Central Ohio in 2019, the former three-county chapter, which that year merged with a 12-county Junior Achievement chapter, had a budget of $700,000 a year and a staff of seven. It's since expanded to a staff of 17, and it now has a network of about 3,000 volunteers.
The chapter covers Ashland, Carroll, Coshocton, Crawford, Holmes, Knox, Marion, Medina, Morrow, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas, Wayne and Wyandot counties.
Junior Achievement had to grapple with the challenges of the pandemic when volunteers could not visit classrooms, employers were reluctant to allow their employees to face infection risks in going into classrooms and now a labor shortage has made it more difficult to recruit volunteers.
Junior Achievement has run financial literacy, entrepreneurship and career literacy programs for years with the school districts of Jackson Local, Plain Local, Canton City, Lake Local, North Canton City, Marlington Local, Perry Local, Massillon City, Minerva Local and Louisville City, said McCleese. It's just started working with Alliance City, Tuslaw Local and Osnaburg Local.
"To be able to roll that out to more schools in the area would be a priority for us,” said McCleese, who added that JA helps school districts comply with the state's new requirement that high schools teach financial literacy as part of a semester-long course. "Our goal is to be in every Canton school."
McCleese said JA programs teach students how much certain careers pay, what a career in the trades is like and how students do not need a college degree to be financially successful.
“A lot of time our students end up in the same career that our JA volunteer was in," McCleese said.
McCleese said grants and donations from foundations, corporations and individuals sustain the program.
Reach Robert at robert.wang@cantonrep.com. On Twitter: @rwangREP. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2022/08/17/mackenzie-scott-gives-700k-to-local-junior-achievement/65406977007/ | 2022-08-17T01:58:57 | 0 | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2022/08/17/mackenzie-scott-gives-700k-to-local-junior-achievement/65406977007/ |
The Bureau of Land Management is pleased to announce that a part of the Loon Lake Recreation Site is now open for weekend camping. Seventeen campsites will be open for camping each Friday, Saturday and Sunday night.
The campsites are available by reservation only. Visitors can begin making reservations through recreation.gov. Sites number 34 through 53 are available. These sites are located in the lower part of the campground nearest to the lake and day use area.
There is no potable water available onsite. Visitors should bring all the water they will need for their visit, including drinking water. Non-potable water will run the flush toilets in the day use restrooms.
The day use area also is still open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The beach and swimming area, picnic tables, charcoal grills, boat ramp, and waterfall trail will be open.
“The water wells and holding tanks are keeping up with demand in the park since we opened for day use in July,” said Steve Lydick, Coos Bay District Manager. “We are excited to open more of the site now that we know we can reliably operate basic facilities for visitors.”
The BLM is opening limited areas in the park while contractors continue work to bring the water treatment system online. The BLM plans to open more campsites later this summer if the water system successfully handles the increased use from limited camping. It is unlikely potable water will be available this season due to construction delays.
The site will remain closed from 11 a.m. on Mondays to 8.a.m. on Fridays. Entering closed areas in the campground is prohibited to protect public safety while work continues on the water treatment and distribution system.
Nearby East Shore Campground is also open on the shore of Loon Lake. Six campsites available on a first come, first served basis. A valid East Shore camping permit also allows entry for one vehicle to Loon Lake Recreation Site for day use.
The BLM closed Loon Lake Recreation Site since 2019. Heavy snow that year toppled trees around the site. Falling trees destroyed the potable water treatment system, a restroom in the day use area, and the maintenance shop. The repairs at the site are being partially funded through the Great American Outdoors Act. | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/limited-camping-opens-at-loon-lake-recreation-site/article_b8289b26-1c0c-11ed-95c5-27ee07afbce6.html | 2022-08-17T02:03:18 | 0 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/limited-camping-opens-at-loon-lake-recreation-site/article_b8289b26-1c0c-11ed-95c5-27ee07afbce6.html |
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM TO 9 PM MDT
WEDNESDAY...
* WHAT...Temperatures up to 103 expected.
* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Idaho and
northeast and southeast Oregon.
* WHEN...From 3 PM to 9 PM MDT Wednesday.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
&&
Idaho's state Board of Examiners, including, from right, state Controller Brandon Woolf, who is the board's non-voting secretary; Gov. Brad Little; and Secretary of State Lawerence Denney, meets at the state Capitol on Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022. Not attending was board member Attorney General Lawrence Wasden.
BOISE — Idaho lawmakers who made it more difficult for transgender people to change the sex listed on their birth certificates, despite a U.S. court ruling banning such obstacles, must pay $321,000 in legal fees to the winning side after losing in the same court.
Republican Gov. Brad Little and Republican Secretary of State Lawerence Denney on the State Board of Examiners on Tuesday approved paying the winning side's legal fees set by the court in June.
The court in March 2018 banned Idaho from automatically rejecting applications from transgender people to change the sex listed on their birth certificates. The court ruled the restriction violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.
But lawmakers in 2020 approved a ban anyway, and Little signed the bill into law. The 2018 case was reopened and Idaho lost again, resulting in the $321,000 legal bill. The state previously paid $75,000 after losing the initial case in 2018.
The plaintiffs in the case were represented by Lambda Legal, which on its website describes itself as a national legal organization working to get full civil rights recognition for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV. The plaintiffs sought roughly $450,000, but the court reduced that amount to what it considered reasonable by looking at the case's complexity and hours billed.
The Board of Examiners typically sends such bills to the Constitutional Defense Council, comprised of the governor, attorney general and leaders of the House and Senate. The council controls the constitutional defense fund that has traditionally gone to pay the winning side's legal fees when Idaho loses court cases. That fund has paid out more than $3 million.
But the board on Tuesday instead sent the bill to the Legislature. The Legislature isn't scheduled to meet until January. Meanwhile, the $321,000 is growing at an interest rate of 2.14% until it's paid, according to a letter from the Idaho attorney general's office to Brian Benjamin at the state controller's office.
The Legislature has several potential options for paying the bill, Benjamin said. Lawmakers could send it to the Constitutional Defense Council. There is also the legislative legal defense fund controlled by the leaders of the House and Senate, currently Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke and Republican Senate President Pro-Tem Chuck Winder.
Finally, lawmakers could appropriate the money from some other source.
Regardless, "it's all taxpayer money," Benjamin noted. | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/idaho-leaders-approve-321k-payment-to-winners-in-transgender-birth-certificate-case/article_638dd13a-500d-5739-8bcf-71cba4894898.html | 2022-08-17T02:07:24 | 1 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/idaho-leaders-approve-321k-payment-to-winners-in-transgender-birth-certificate-case/article_638dd13a-500d-5739-8bcf-71cba4894898.html |
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM TO 9 PM MDT
WEDNESDAY...
* WHAT...Temperatures up to 103 expected.
* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Idaho and
northeast and southeast Oregon.
* WHEN...From 3 PM to 9 PM MDT Wednesday.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
&&
1 of 6
Bronco Motors service manager Justin Nicodemus applies an identification number to the secondary catalytic converter of a Toyota minivan during a Catalytic Converter Community Theft Prevention event on Tuesday.
Mike Phillips, with the Nampa Police Department, on Tuesday holds a sample of a registration card used at Bronco Motors in Nampa to prevent catalytic converter theft.
Bronco Motors service manager Justin Nicodemus cleans the surface of a catalytic converter on a 2020 Subaru Forester before applying an identification number during a theft prevention event Tuesday.
Mike Phillips, with the Nampa Police Department, discusses the problem of catalytic converter theft in the area during a Catalytic Converter Community Theft Prevention event at Bronco Motors in Nampa on Tuesday.
Bronco Motors service manager Justin Nicodemus applies an identification number to the secondary catalytic converter of a Toyota minivan during a Catalytic Converter Community Theft Prevention event on Tuesday.
Mike Phillips, with the Nampa Police Department, on Tuesday holds a sample of a registration card used at Bronco Motors in Nampa to prevent catalytic converter theft.
Bronco Motors service manager Justin Nicodemus cleans the surface of a catalytic converter on a 2020 Subaru Forester before applying an identification number during a theft prevention event Tuesday.
Mike Phillips, with the Nampa Police Department, discusses the problem of catalytic converter theft in the area during a Catalytic Converter Community Theft Prevention event at Bronco Motors in Nampa on Tuesday.
NAMPA — With Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise in the Treasure Valley, the Nampa Police Department and local car dealerships are looking to combat the trend.
On Tuesday, Nampa police along with Bronco Motors and Edmark Toyota hosted individuals looking to have stickers and serial numbers etched onto their converters.
Thieves have targeted the car part, located underneath vehicles, because of the precious metals and powder found inside them that can generate significant money on the open market.
Mike Phillips, the sergeant for property crimes with the Nampa Police Department, said the serial numbers will help police track stolen converters and trace them back to their original owners. The hope is that converters can be salvaged and suspects will be caught.
Phillips also believes that the engraved numbers will deter criminals from stealing the car part in the first place.
“Right now, we don’t have anything. We don’t know which car it comes off, we don’t know which person it came from,” Phillips said. “Now, at least we have something here.”
Catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise not just in the region but nationally as well. In May, representatives from the Boise and Nampa police departments, as well as the Ada and Canyon County sheriff’s offices, said they’ve all seen upticks in the crime over the past year.
On Tuesday, Phillips said Nampa police has received reports of at least 160 catalytic converter thefts since Jan. 1 and that many others have likely been unreported.
“Everywhere. It’s an epidemic really,” he said. “It’s just getting worse.”
Thieves can use battery-operated power tools such as reciprocating saws and other equipment when going under cars and trucks to cut through and get to the converter. They then sell the converters to recyclers and non-licensed scrap dealers who take the metals and powder found within the converters and, in turn, sell that for a steep price.
A shipment of the metals from the converters can generate up to $2 million.
The Nampa sergeant said that vehicles parked at local hospitals, hardware stores as well as bus, RV and U-Haul lots have been targeted.
"If somebody pulls their car up and goes in and goes shopping, it takes 35 seconds,” Phillips said. “By the time you walk in the store they pull up.”
Auto dealerships on Garrity Boulevard near the Ford Idaho Center have all fallen victim to the crime as well.
Tom Rossoll, area general manager for Bronco Motors, said one of their dealerships in Nampa had two converters stolen about two months ago.
“Out of the back of the property. Just overnight one night. And we had lights everywhere,” Rossoll said.
Replacing a stolen converter can cost well over $1,000, according to Phillips.
He said that Bronco Motors and Edmark Toyota were both booked on Tuesday and Wednesday, with about 20 converter-etching appointments scheduled each day at the respective establishments.
Nampa police will also team up with Treasure Valley Subaru and Peterson Dodge on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for those looking to bring in vehicles over the weekend.
Similar events could follow in the community if there is a demand for them.
On Tuesday, Dan Rhoades brought his Chevy van in for a serial number. Rhoades said he recently put in a new exhaust system and is looking to rebuild the front end and get a paint job. The hope is that the van will be ready for some road trips in the near future.
“With all that’s going on, I want to be sure there is some sort of recourse in case something happens,” Rhoades said, referring to converter theft. “It seems like a pretty good deal. Get the serial number, and it can be tracked.”
Teddy Feinberg is the Managing Editor at the Idaho Press. He can be reached at 208-465-8110. Follow him on Twitter: @TeddyFeinberg | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/nampa-police-car-dealerships-team-up-to-combat-catalytic-converter-theft/article_91f18ad3-2389-5046-b30a-de9aaa99c51d.html | 2022-08-17T02:07:30 | 0 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/nampa-police-car-dealerships-team-up-to-combat-catalytic-converter-theft/article_91f18ad3-2389-5046-b30a-de9aaa99c51d.html |
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM TO 9 PM MDT
WEDNESDAY...
* WHAT...Temperatures up to 103 expected.
* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Idaho and
northeast and southeast Oregon.
* WHEN...From 3 PM to 9 PM MDT Wednesday.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
&&
Valley Regional Transit receives $17.4 million electric bus grant
Valley Regional Transit announced Tuesday it received a $17.4 million federal grant to buy electric buses and charging infrastructure.
The transit organization intends to use the funds to help purchase eight electric buses and four electric depot chargers to add to its existing 12 electric buses, according to a news release.
“Competitive federal grants are an essential part of our funding strategy as we work toward a more sustainable transit system, and we are thrilled with the award,” VRT Executive Director Kelli Badesheim said.
In August 2019, the Federal Transit Administration awarded $3 million to VRT to help with buying its first battery-electric buses, the release said. VRT also received almost $2 million earlier this year to buy three electric buses. The transit organization is in the process of ordering the three buses, the release said.
Last week, VRT said it was told it received an $8.5 million grant, part of which will be used for on-route electric bus charging.
VRT said it wants to achieve 100% clean energy by 2035.
The number of electric vehicles in the state has increased tremendously in the last decade, as previously reported.
In 2015, Idahoans registered 139 electric vehicles. In 2021, that number was up to 2,990 vehicles, a 2,000% increase, according to data from the Idaho Department of Transportation.
As of late July, Idahoans had registered over 2,300 electric vehicles this year, with five months still to go.
“Electric vehicles are the future,” Patti Best, senior program specialist at Idaho Power, previously told the Idaho Press. “How fast they come is the real question. Idaho’s a little slower to adopt than other areas.” | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/valley-regional-transit-receives-17-4-million-electric-bus-grant/article_96c531e8-3232-59a5-9553-1a51b7c676bf.html | 2022-08-17T02:07:36 | 1 | https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/valley-regional-transit-receives-17-4-million-electric-bus-grant/article_96c531e8-3232-59a5-9553-1a51b7c676bf.html |
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Millie Pendola wasn’t surprised “at all” when she learned Tuesday that Johnson City’s 37604 zip code ranked seventh nationally in realtor.com’s “America’s Hottest ZIP codes” ranking — even with close to 30,000 competitors.
“I love to tell all my buyers that Tennessee is sort of the trifecta of tax-friendly state, beauty and affordability,” the Century 21 Realtor said at her office in the center of said zip code, which encompasses most parts of Johnson City that are west of Interstate 26.
Pendola left a career as a paralegal to enter real estate two years ago and has seen a tremendously strong market around the Tri-Cities. In fact, zip code 37664 in Kingsport also made the top 50, coming in at 47th.
“We’ve had a lot of relocations from California markets, from Florida markets, from New York markets, Washington D.C. … and they’re more cash-heavy than our local buyers, which is to be expected,” Pendola said, adding that about three-quarters of her business has been people migrating from outside the area.
Indeed, realtor.com listed affordability, at least on a national scale, and relocation as two of the three reasons 37604 was considered a hotspot. The other was opportunities for aspiring millennial homeowners, who own homes at a 56.9% rate in the zip code compared to a national average of 51.3%.
The median price according to realtor.com for the January-June period was $329,000 in 37604. Pendola’s data show a median list price year to date of $268,078. Regardless, it’s well below the national average of $450,000 and that’s bringing people who have sold in other regions into the area with plenty of cash in hand. It’s the third-lowest median listing price among the top 10 hottest zip codes.
Pendola said her clients, all of whom she said are coming here to either take local jobs or work remotely as opposed to being retired, “are impressed with the level of affordability compared to where they’re moving from and I think that’s a huge attraction for our market.
In July the average list price was $420,571 for 57 active listings, according to Pendola’s data, and the median was $300,000.
“That can get you a lot here and a little other places,” she said. “You get more bang for your buck … compared to the San Francisco area, the LA area, New York City area, so there’s a big driver there because they can pay cash.”
What about affordability?
Will Crumley has been building homes around the region, including in 37604, on infill lots that are either empty or have homes in such disrepair they’re torn down and replaced. He said demand in Johnson City is “unprecedented in our lifetime.”
Specifically in the 37604 zip code he said there haven’t been a lot of new neighborhoods or subdivisions developed in recent years, leaving supply limited.
“A lot of these numbers are driven just by demand,” he said. “People that are from here and people that have moved here want the amenities that downtown and living in town provides. I think a lot of the people that are moving here from urban places want the best of what an urban environment can provide. Walkability and restaurants and the like.”
While outsiders may still see the region as affordable, in-migration and cash offers are driving prices up steadily.
The median sale price in 37604 from January-July 2021 was $208,650, meaning half of the homes sold went for less than that amount and half for more. This year, that median is $265,210, up 27% in just a year. The average price is up 18%, from $255,548 to $301,894.
The scarcity of available land, and now even infill lots, has created a market Crumley said he never would have imagined growing up in Johnson City. Wilson Avenue, which parallels West Market Street in the Mountain Home neighborhood, has seen a revitalization in the past couple of years where a generation ago it was the site of extra police patrols due to a major drug trafficking issue.
“We’re getting over $200 a square foot on new houses,” said Crumley, who has built on Wilson. Indeed, records show purchase of a lot at 308 Wilson for $19,000 in October 2021, construction of a 1,008-square-foot house house early this year, and sale of that home for $214,900 in April — $213 a square foot.
Another lot at 419 Wilson was purchased for $21,000 in February of this year, and an 884-square-foot house was then built there. Five months later it sold for $200,000, or $226 a square foot.
Crumley said that’s a boon to established residents there, many of whom are moderate income.
“It can help revitalize older neighborhoods and bring some new life and raise some property values for existing homeowners,” he said.
Crumley has one home in progress on an infill lot on West Chestnut Street and another on Wilson Avenue but said opportunities to buy such lots are becoming scarcer and scarcer.
Scarcer, but not completely unavailable. Tuesday afternoon saw two homes under construction in the 100 block of West Chestnut. One was a tear down that Sandra Walker of Walker Construction and Development was overseeing, the other a vacant lot Crumley was building on, with both homes set for two stories and well over 2,000 square feet.
“They are selling as fast as I can build them,” said Walker, who tries to focus on keeping homes below the $300,000 price point and prefers to remain in the $200,000 range.
“We’ve had a lot of customers, clients, that’s called us wanting us to build for them that have been from Florida, Minnesota, California,” Walker said.
Even as inflation has sent interest rates up, Walker, Crumley and Pendola all agree Johnson City appears to be on a trajectory of high demand and increasing prices that’s likely to last for some time.
“I didn’t think Johnson City would ever become a hub, but yeah, Johnson City has become a hub,” said Walker, who grew up here.
Pendola said she believes Johnson City’s leaders have “done a great job optimizing for growth in the population and their planning and zoning commissions are allowing new residential areas to be created.”
She said she thinks demand is far from being met.
“I think it will continue. Again, the trifecta of beauty, tax leniency and the affordability of our area is very attractive to people. I don’t think that’s going to decrease.”
Those fundamentals are good for Crumley’s business, but the rising prices do leave him concerned about people who are from here and work in important middle-income jobs getting priced out of the market.
Through the first seven months of 2021, there were 186 active listings in the $100,000 to $200,000 range. This year, there have been just 111, a decrease of 40%. The total in the $200,000 to $300,000 range is nearly unchanged, with 108 last year and 117 this year. In the $300,000 and up range, though, there have been 154 listings this year compared to 95 last year.
“A city can’t grow at least in my opinion on the most expensive housing alone,” Crumley said. “Real growth comes from growth across socioeconomic boundaries and people need those houses to move up into, they need those first houses to buy.” | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/37604-zip-code-in-johnson-city-among-top-10-hottest-real-estate-markets/ | 2022-08-17T02:09:09 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/local/37604-zip-code-in-johnson-city-among-top-10-hottest-real-estate-markets/ |
INDIANAPOLIS — There's some exciting news for Butler's esports program.
The group "Beast Coast" is the newest tenant to move into the university's "Esports Park". They're a leading e-gaming network using the facility for competitive training.
(Note: The video associated with this story is a previous 13News report about the first student to graduate with a Butler esports minor.)
They are the second tenant to move into Butler's Esports Park after it opened last month. The facility is also used by students in the e-gaming program at Butler and by the school's esports teams.
In May, 13News told you about A.J. Kool, a Butler student who was about to make history as the school's first esports graduate.
"If you would have told me that four years ago I'd be graduating with a minor in esports, I would have never believed you," said Kool.
Kool's graduation was significant for the school, as he was the first student with an esports communications minor.
Taking 13News on a tour through Butler's new esports facility in May, manager Nathan Duke showed off the space that will allow students to learn hands-on how to produce esports events.
"The opportunities that we're going to be able to provide in here on an educational front, not just when it comes to esports, but media content production in all forms of that, the opportunities that we're going to be able to provide in here are endless," Duke said. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/butler-university-facility-for-competitive-gaming-gets-new-tenant-education-esports-building/531-d3e48ea4-eef4-4dcb-9a74-cd187517b3c0 | 2022-08-17T02:10:54 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/butler-university-facility-for-competitive-gaming-gets-new-tenant-education-esports-building/531-d3e48ea4-eef4-4dcb-9a74-cd187517b3c0 |
INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis police are asking for the public's help in locating a man reported missing from the northwest side of the city.
According to IMPD, 32-year-old Charles Lewis was last seen around 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 16 in the 7600 block of Bancaster Drive. He also may have been seen at the Shell gas station in the 7100 block of Michigan Road.
Lewis was last seen wearing a gray shirt with black on the shoulders, torn and faded jeans, and white and red Fila shoes.
If you see Charles Lewis, call 911 immediately. If you have information about his location, contact the IMPD Missing Persons Unit at 317-327-6160 or call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-TIPS.
Amber Alert vs. Silver Alert: What's the difference?
There are specific standards a person's disappearance must meet in order for police to declare an Amber Alert or a Silver Alert.
Amber Alerts are for children under the age of 18 who are believed to have been abducted and in danger. Police also need to have information about a suspect and their car to issue an Amber Alert.
Silver Alerts are for missing and endangered adults or children. They are much more common for missing people. It was not until last year when the standards for Silver Alerts were expanded to include children.
In both situations, these alerts must be issued by police. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/impd-searching-for-missing-32-year-old-indianapolis-man/531-7e433330-2b54-4847-937f-d5b297661253 | 2022-08-17T02:11:01 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/impd-searching-for-missing-32-year-old-indianapolis-man/531-7e433330-2b54-4847-937f-d5b297661253 |
INDIANAPOLIS — Kids at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital took a little break from their daily procedures and treatments Tuesday to have some fun.
All it took were a few controllers, chairs and professional esports players.
(Note: The attached video is a previous 13News report about one of the NBA 2K League's standout players.)
NBA 2K league players with Indiana Pacers Gaming stopped by to play a few rounds.
They took turns playing and cheering each other on.
Members of the Pacers Gaming team say they've been looking forward to the visit all week.
"Just seeing the kids smile, you know, making them happy. Playing some video games with them," said Bryant Colon. "Making their day better any way I can and I'm enjoying it."
Peyton Manning Children's Hospital says events like these help make the hospital more exciting and enjoyable for young patients.
The NBA 2K League is in its fifth season.
You might remember back in April when we reported that live play tournaments had kicked off at the Pavilion at Pan Am in downtown Indy.
The NBA 2K 3v3 League Playoffs start Wednesday. Doors open at 6 p.m. with competition starting at 7 on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
The finals are Saturday at 3 p.m.
Click here to find out more about the event, including ticket information. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/nba-2k-league-players-stop-by-peyton-manning-childrens-hospital-gaming-fun-kids/531-cd0ec976-7f60-43b1-8748-32d29e820d82 | 2022-08-17T02:11:07 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/nba-2k-league-players-stop-by-peyton-manning-childrens-hospital-gaming-fun-kids/531-cd0ec976-7f60-43b1-8748-32d29e820d82 |
Fire crews hit Bobby Lake Fire in hopes of stopping second major blaze near Waldo Lake
Fire crews are hitting a new wildfire southeast of Waldo Lake hard in hopes of preventing a second major blaze from erupting in the popular recreation corridor.
The Bobby Lake Fire ignited Monday evening in one of many "holdover" fires that sparked following numerous lightning strikes in the area. The fire is about a mile from Bobby Lake, a popular hiking destination ideal for swimming and camping with kids.
The fire is currently 9 acres but crews have been hitting it hard with three helicopters, eight rappelers, two 20-person hand crews with another one in route, fire officials said. Crews have built a fire line with hand tools around 20% of the fire, a sign that they're making progress at keeping it small, officials said. They are trying to circle the fire and remove the flammable vegetation.
"We're using all the resources we have to get this one — it's definitely a full suppression fire," fire spokeswoman Jaimie Olle said. "The fire is burning in heavy timber and there is a lot of recreation infrastructure around here to protect."
Time is of the essence on dousing the Bobby Lake Fire. The forecast calls for hot and dry conditions, along with potential thunderstorms that could bring gusty winds.
If the fire did grow and get established, it would be a second major fire in the area. The 4,657 acre Cedar Creek Fire – the largest blaze in western Oregon this year – is burning on the west side of Waldo Lake, where it has brought a major closure area. The Bobby Lake Fire is on the east side of Waldo Lake, and if it grew, it would likely bring additional closures that could potentially close down the entire recreation area.
"They're really using the air resources to moderate fire behavior so rappellers can get on the ground and do their good work," Cedar Creek Fire spokeswoman Kassidy Kern said. "Firefighters have knocked out over 100 fires in last week or so and it's because of that good and hard work that we have the resources to put out a fire like Bobby. It's all that work that allows us to be prepared for a moment like this."
This story will be updated as more information becomes available. See below for other area fire updates.
Cedar Creek Fire creeps closer to Waldo Lake
Cedar Creek Fire reached 4,657 acres as of Tuesday morning with 0% containment, which is now about 2 miles from the western shore of nearby Waldo Lake. Crews continue to work on road prep in surrounding areas of the fire for containment lines, and were able to successfully wrap the Taylor Burns Guard Station with protective tin foil to remain on until the threat of fire passes, according to officials.
While there are currently no evacuations in place, Forest Road 1928 as well as Huckleberry Flats Recreation Area are closed through Friday for public and firefighter safety, according to an announcement from the Willamette National Forest.
A virtual public meeting will be held via the Cedar Creek Fire Facebook page on Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Windigo, Potter, Big Swamp fires bracing for thunderstorms, wind
Further south the forecast predicts stronger winds and increased chances of thunderstorms, and firefighters continue to push mop-up efforts as well as laying containment lines and hoses along the Big Swamp, Windigo and Potter fires, according to an update from fire officials.
The Windigo Fire, the largest of the three, is 78% contained as of Tuesday morning, whereas the Big Swamp and Potter Fires remain at 0% containment. All three fires were started by lightning.
All three fires collectively have burned over 1,600 acres of the Willamette National Forest, and have 871 personnel assigned to the complex, including helicopters, hand crews and engines, according to InciWeb.
Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. To support his work,subscribe to the Statesman Journal. Urness is the author of “Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon” and “Hiking Southern Oregon.” He can be reached atzurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.
Skyla Patton is an outdoor reporter and multimedia storyteller. She can be reached at spatton@gannett.com and on Twitter @ganjajournalist. | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/bobby-lake-fire-grows-9-acres-fire-near-silverton-oregon-waldo-lake-wildfire-east-of-salem-today/65406509007/ | 2022-08-17T02:16:39 | 1 | https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/local/2022/08/16/bobby-lake-fire-grows-9-acres-fire-near-silverton-oregon-waldo-lake-wildfire-east-of-salem-today/65406509007/ |
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