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LANSING, IL - Dale E. Robinson, age 71, lifelong resident of Lansing, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 23, 2022.
He is survived by his mother, Helen L. (Rose) Robinson; and his brother Todd (Suzanne) Robinson and their four children; Dale's nephew's and niece: Adam (Alicia) Robinson; their children: Landon, Riley, Carter and Beau; Jeremy (Erin) Robinson, Drew Robinson and Cassidy Robinson. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Melanie (Lock) Robinson.
Since the passing of Melanie, he had several people in his life that he loved spending time with.
Dale loved many things in life. He was very close to his mother and was her immediate care taker the last several years. He was very proud of his US Air Force Service and his time serving the country overseas.
He met his wife, Melanie as a patient needing physical therapy and started a long relationship ending in marriage until her passing in 2002. They both had a love of hot rods and motorcycles, owning several and using them to enjoy life to the fullest.
Even though they had decided to not have any children, they substituted this with their love of their dogs. Dale was a gentle giant to all, the love and respect from his nephews, niece and grand-nephews and grand-niece show how big his heart was to all.
Visitation with the family will be Friday, August 26, 2022 at SCHROEDER-LAUER FUNERAL HOME, 3227 Ridge Rd., Lansing, IL from 9:00 to 11:00 AM. There will be a private grave side service for family immediately following this visitation at Chapel Lawn Cemetery, Schererville IN where he will be laid to rest with his wife. www.schroederlauer.com | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/dale-e-robinson/article_57cbc01e-8f9f-54b6-a612-2eb968ceebbf.html | 2022-08-25T06:26:23 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/dale-e-robinson/article_57cbc01e-8f9f-54b6-a612-2eb968ceebbf.html |
July 7, 1967 - Augsut 21, 2022
CROWN POINT, IN - David E. Wichowsky, age 55, of Crown Point, IN, passed away on Sunday, August 21, 2022.
David is survived by his sister: Lisa (Greg) Kassner; two brothers: Richard Wichowsky, Philip (Christena) Wichowsky; nieces and nephew: Cassidy & Callan Wichowsky and Erik Kassner.
David was preceded in death by his parents: Lee and Anita Paige Wichowsky.
David was a graduate of Crown Point High School, Class of 1985 and attended Colorado State University and Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. He worked for Superior Petroleum/Petro Choice in industrial lubricant and heavy equipment sales. David was a member of the Elks and Sigma Chi Fraternity. He enjoyed golf, skiing, motorcycle riding, wine tasting, music and dogs.
Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, August 28, 2022 at GEISEN FUNERAL, CREMATION & RECEPTION CENTER, 606 E. 113th Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307 from 1:00 PM until the time of Celebration of Life Service at 4:00 PM.In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in David's name to the American Kidney Foundation, www.kidneyfund.org.Visit David's online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com 219-663-2500. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/david-e-wichowsky/article_8673e2c3-b4bd-5975-bd1b-decc357885a6.html | 2022-08-25T06:26:30 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/david-e-wichowsky/article_8673e2c3-b4bd-5975-bd1b-decc357885a6.html |
PORTAGE, IN - Evelyn M. Roberts-Ellis, age 95, of Portage, IN and formerly of Foster City, MI, passed away on August 23, 2022.
Family and friends may gather at REES FUNERAL HOME, OLSON CHAPEL, 5341 Central Ave., Portage on Friday, August 26, 2022 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Prayers will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. and a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 1:00 p.m. from Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Rd., Portage. At rest: Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Evelyn's name may be made to The Caring Place, Inc. Advocacy Center (607 Bullseye Lake Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383).
To view Evelyn's full obituary and share condolences, please visit www.reesfuneralhomes.com. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/evelyn-m-roberts-ellis/article_7bf3aa56-5029-5d2f-8c5a-5a4c0cd399df.html | 2022-08-25T06:26:36 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/evelyn-m-roberts-ellis/article_7bf3aa56-5029-5d2f-8c5a-5a4c0cd399df.html |
July 3, 1927 - Aug. 16, 2022
BERMUDA DUNES, CA - Geraldine "Gerrie" Husiar, age 95, of Bermuda Dunes, CA, formerly of Schererville, IN, passed away on Tuesday, August 16, 2022.
Gerrie is survived by her children; John J. (Linda) Husiar and Vickie (late Gregory) Engelien; grandchildren: Jonathon (Kara) Husiar and Dr. Gregory (Lisa) Engelien; great-grandchildren: Wes Engelien and Lily Engelien; sister, Norma Jean Walston.
Gerrie was preceded in death by her husband, John Husiar, Jr.; parents: Will and Helen Whiteside; brothers: Wilson Whiteside and Jack Whiteside; sister, Pauline Spurlock.
Gerrie was totally devoted to her family. She had a very close relationship with her grandsons who adored her. She felt so blessed to be with her great-grandchildren.
Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at Geisen-Pruzin Funeral & Cremation Services, 6360 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 from 9:30 AM until the time of Funeral Service at 11:00 AM.
Interment to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville, IN.
Visit Gerrie's online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com 219-663-2500. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/geraldine-gerrie-husiar/article_c8e51e98-d205-55c8-a087-d145658abd05.html | 2022-08-25T06:26:42 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/geraldine-gerrie-husiar/article_c8e51e98-d205-55c8-a087-d145658abd05.html |
HOBART - John Lee Futrell, age 92 of Hobart passed away August 23, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years- Lillian. For service information see Burns Funeral Home website @ www.burnsfuneral.com.
HOBART - John Lee Futrell, age 92 of Hobart passed away August 23, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years- Lillian. For service information see Burns Funeral Home website @ www.burnsfuneral.com.
Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/john-lee-futrell/article_75e3ca95-2cad-5261-82ad-5a94b4f9bf15.html | 2022-08-25T06:26:48 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/john-lee-futrell/article_75e3ca95-2cad-5261-82ad-5a94b4f9bf15.html |
MUNSTER, IN - Karen Biesboer, age 74 of Munster, Indiana formerly of Chicago Heights, Illinois passed away on Saturday, August 20, 2022. Loving sister of Deborah (late Wallace) Bailey and Deanna (Paul) Burghardt. Aunt to Jill (John) Zager, Dawn Gilliam, Susan (Tilly) Bridges, Catherine Burghardt and Robert Burghardt. Preceded in death by her parents Josephine (Granato) and John Biesboer. Karen volunteered with many local organizations and was very active in her community. She was very successful in large fundraising events, serving as a Marketing and Public relations director for a multi office savings and loan company. Recently retired from Southland Health Care Forum. She will be dearly missed by her many friends and family. Karen was a classy lady who loved to travel and loved the color red! In lieu of flowers, donations to Calumet Area Hospice or St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Munster, Indiana would be appreciated.
Visitation will be held at PANOZZO BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 530 West 14th Street, Chicago Heights, Illinois from 9:00am-12:00pm. Services will be held immediately following Viewing at 12:00pm. For additional information please call 708-481-9230 or panozzobros.com. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/karen-biesboer/article_229f0421-4edb-5a1d-a67a-4278679c597b.html | 2022-08-25T06:26:54 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/karen-biesboer/article_229f0421-4edb-5a1d-a67a-4278679c597b.html |
CROWN POINT - Leona M. Kieltyka, age 91, of Crown Point, IN, passed away on August 22, 2022. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 72 years- Eugene; and daughter, Patricia Albee. She is survived by her children: David Kieltyka, Robert (Andrea) Kieltyka; son-in-law, Carl Albee; three grandchildren: Jude (Carly) Kieltyka, Brian (Genevieve) Albee, Kenneth (Malorie) Albee; four great-grandchildren: Owen, Ethan, Theodore, and Sanna. A visitation will take place on Saturday, August 27, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. until time of funeral at 11:00 a.m. at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. Interment at Calumet Park Cemetery. www.burnsfuneral.com | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/leona-m-kieltyka/article_5e6d4590-513d-5ac5-b0d1-613a025ef70a.html | 2022-08-25T06:27:01 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/leona-m-kieltyka/article_5e6d4590-513d-5ac5-b0d1-613a025ef70a.html |
1924 - 2022
SCHERERVILLE, IN - Marion M. Crider (Gloser) age 98, of Schererville, passed August 22, 2022.
Survived by her loving daughters: Nancy (John) Hill, Marion (Ronald) Hanson; grandchildren: Beth, Larry, Jamie, Kristin, Cathy and Bob; son-in-law Lyn Carpenter. Preceded in death by her husbands: George Gloser and Robert Crider; daughter Georgia Carpenter and grandson Chris Carpenter.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 26, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at the LINCOLN RIDGE FUNERAL HOME, 7607 W. Lincoln Hwy., Schererville (Rt. 30 east of Cline Ave). At rest Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. Friends are invited to visit with Marion's family on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until time of service.
Marion was a member of the Ladies Shriners and Eastern Star. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/marion-m-crider-gloser/article_338ecfb4-1c34-500a-89ed-a5b3e898379e.html | 2022-08-25T06:27:07 | 0 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/obituaries/marion-m-crider-gloser/article_338ecfb4-1c34-500a-89ed-a5b3e898379e.html |
Trimper's in Ocean City will be showcased by artist bound for National Folk Festival
Artist Joanne Guilfoil can recall sitting under a tall, lush tree, rays of sunlight peeking through the rippling leaves, a sharpened pencil tucked in her small hand.
It's a moment in time that she holds onto when, as a young girl between the ages of 7 and 9, her artistic skills and passion for artistry were just beginning to bloom.
“We were told, in the '50s as kids, to go out and find something to do,” said Guilfoil, originally from Westchester County, New York. “So, we did. We would bring pencils and paper and go sit under a tree.”
A young Guilfoil was content with painting anything she could get her hands on.
One of the most memorable pieces from her childhood was a George Washington paint by numbers, wherein the first president sat astride a tall stallion, lifting his signature tricorn hat above his head.
Together, she and her father would sit side by side and work on the painting, a wet paint brush passed from hand to hand. It is a memory that has stuck with Guilfoil over time, and her passion for painting only continued to flourish from that moment on.
Finding artistic inspiration on the Eastern Shore
Today, Guilfoil’s artwork is heavily influenced by life along the Delmarva Peninsula.
After moving to Potomac, Maryland, for high school, she fell in love with the Eastern Shore. Trained first as a painter and then as a teacher of art, she is mostly self-taught. Nowadays, she lives in Selbyville, for she does not wish to stray too far from one of her key muses, the vast Atlantic Ocean.
NATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL:‘I know my roots’: Salisbury braider to bring generations of Black expression to Folk Festival
In March of 2022, the Eastern Shore artist had undertaken one of her favorite projects to date — the repainting of a historic object at one of Ocean City’s landmark destinations, Trimper’s Rides and Amusement Park, founded in 1893.
The antique, an angelic ticket booth, is one of the amusement park’s most famed attractions. Many who visit the park cannot help but stop dead in their tracks to admire its extravagant ornamentation.
Before Guilfoil could pick up her paintbrush, she had to clean the antique. On top of being damaged and weathered, it had become quite dusty, dirty and greasy over time. She climbed atop the scaffolding and got to work.
“I’d go home and my cuticles and nails would be all black,” said Guilfoil, 72. “It was filthy.”
It took the artist about one week to clean. Then, it was time to paint.
“The hardest part was how cold it was,” Guilfoil said. “I was wrapped in this and that, trying to stay warm. Every now and then, I’d come down the scaffolding, run up to the bathroom and run my hands under hot water.”
How she restored the ticket booth at Trimper's
Guilfoil, an active member of the Art League of Ocean City, used jewel-toned acrylic colors, such as emerald, ruby, and gold, throughout the restoration process. Doing so allowed her to stay true to the ticket booth’s Art Nouveau style which, according to Britannica, is an ornamental style of art that flourished between about 1890 and 1910.
Guilfoil enjoyed sitting unattended in Trimper’s, and was happy to donate her time as community service under the aegis of of the Art League.
The familiar sounds one often hears around the amusement park — bumper cars rattling, cheerful carousel music playing, children squealing and sneakers squeaking — were absent, for the amusement park was still closed for the season.
Guilfoil would turn on a radio to fill the silence, classical music spilling from its speakers, echoing throughout the vacant park — music which relaxed the artist, and made time fly.
The project took her about three weeks to complete. Upon completion, Guilfoil scrawled her named on one side of the ticket booth, in remembrance of her work. When she sees her name, a smile is never too far behind.
Bound for the National Folk Festival
Trimper’s is happy to have recruited Guilfoil for the ticket booth's restoration process. Now, to the artist’s delight, the amusement park is putting her back to work.
This month, from Aug. 26-28, Guilfoil can be found at the National Folk Festival in downtown Salisbury.
There, her artistry will be put on full display as she repaints one of Trimper’s antique carousel horses — a stark white stallion with a black saddle and red and gold cloth draped over its side. In preparation, Guilfoil has photographed the carousel horse and put together a sheet detailing the exact paint colors she will need for the festival’s on-site restoration.
She is thrilled to be working alongside of Trimper’s once again.
“The community at large is always really interested in our history because, at this point, we’re 129 years old,” said Trimper’s Director of Marketing Jessica Bauer. “I hope, first and foremost, the community learns that it’s imperative to us to keep the nostalgia of the park alive and well.”
Fun and history at Trimper's Amusement Park
As much as Trimper’s is a vibrant amusement park, it is also a museum.
“Our carousel is 110 years old this year. How many amusement parks can give those kinds of numbers? You’re not going to find anything like (Trimper’s) anywhere else. We genuinely love and care for the items here,” Bauer said.
RELATED:National Folk Festival 2021 draws big crowd to downtown Salisbury on sunny weekend
In addition to being placed in front of a curious crowd of onlookers, Guilfoil will be seated with a special member of the Trimper family. Tracey Hausel, a great-great granddaughter of founders Daniel and Margaret Trimper, will be sharing Trimper family history with festival attendees as they watch Guilfoil at work.
Although Guilfoil enjoys every bit of the restoration process, her favorite part is most certainly the end, when she sets down her paintbrush and her eyes are met with a squeaky clean, richly colored, fully restored antique.
"Phew!" She wipes at her brow, demonstrating how she feels when a project is complete. "It's satisfying."
Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com. | https://www.delmarvanow.com/story/news/local/maryland/2022/08/24/joanne-guilfoil-restores-ticket-booth-trimpers-rides-amusement-park-maryland/65397766007/ | 2022-08-25T06:28:56 | 0 | https://www.delmarvanow.com/story/news/local/maryland/2022/08/24/joanne-guilfoil-restores-ticket-booth-trimpers-rides-amusement-park-maryland/65397766007/ |
The Metropolitan Transit Authority's proposed and controversial plan for congestion pricing in a large swath of Manhattan continues to move forward, even as one group very familiar with New York City's streets rallied against it outside of the governor's office.
Dozens of drivers gathered out in front of Gov. Kathy Hochul's midtown office on Wednesday, a rally held on the eve of when a series of public hearings on the plan are set to begin.
"Nobody knows exactly what’s gonna happen. And if they do that to us, the yellow taxi industry is over," said cab driver Nick Skafidas.
Those hearings will be six virtual sessions over the course of a week, and are designed to get public input on the main proposal which would add a toll to enter Manhattan south of 60th street. That toll could range from $9 to $23 at peak times, from $7 to $17 off-peak, and at least $5 even during overnight hours.
"We are outraged and disgusted by the money grab of MTA," said Bhairavi Desai, president of the Taxi Workers Alliance President, the union for cab drivers.
Dozens of the drivers tried to make their case that they already pay a congestion fee, and shouldn't have to pay a new toll to enter Manhattan starting in 2023. Other officials — mainly those from the outer boroughs or neighboring locations in New Jersey, Westchester County and Long Island — have complained that the toll would just lead to congestion elsewhere.
MTA Chairman Janno Lieber said that "there may be localized impacts," but that the study would mitigate those impacts.
The big question many, including the taxi drivers, are wondering: Who, if anyone, would be exempt? Although as one advocate explained, too many exemptions wouldn't be a good thing.
"The more exemptions there are the more everyone else pays," said Renae Reynolds of the Tri-State Transportation Campaign. "Overarchingly, congestion pricing not only reduces congestion but improves air quality."
Mass transit advocates and environmental groups say congestion pricing could generate $15 billion to modernize the subway system and improve the bus fleet.
Meanwhile, the MTA has chosen a panel of experts to recommend exact details, such as where exactly the license plate readers would go, and who would get to drive without paying. That panel did not say anything about their early thinking.
"Unfortunately, we are not doing any interviews prior to the conclusion of the public hearings and all requests for interviews should be coordinated through the MTA," one board member said.
In a statement, the transit agency said Wednesday that cars like taxis are part of the gridlock problem in the city.
"Anyone who has been in New York City in the past decade knows that for-hire-vehicles are a part of the story of congestion in Manhattan’s Central Business District, which has harmful air quality impacts and slows down the economy," said MTA Spokesperson Jon McCarthy. "Seven scenarios have been analyzed to reduce congestion, with a range of different approaches for taxis and for-hire vehicles. These scenarios are not being put forward by the MTA or anyone else at this stage as proposals, but public review and feedback is an important element of the Federal process.”
As for who will actually be at the virtual hearing on Thursday, it will be a hearing officer and representatives from the three project sponsors: the MTA, NYSDOT and NYCDOT. The Federal Highway Administration will also be in attendance. Public comments will begin shortly after an introduction, though moderators will not be shown on screen.
After the public hearings, the next step is approval from the Federal Highway Administration by the end of 2022. If and when that happens, the congestion pricing clock starts ticking as to how much to charge and when it begins | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/nyc-yellow-cab-drivers-see-red-over-mtas-proposed-congestion-pricing-plan/3838140/ | 2022-08-25T06:35:49 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/nyc-yellow-cab-drivers-see-red-over-mtas-proposed-congestion-pricing-plan/3838140/ |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California is poised to set a 2035 deadline for all new cars, trucks and SUVs sold in the state to be powered by electricity or hydrogen, an ambitious step that will reshape the U.S. car market by speeding the transition to more climate-friendly vehicles.
The California Air Resources Board will vote Thursday on the policy, which sets the most aggressive roadmap in the nation for moving away from gas-powered cars. It doesn't eliminate such vehicles, however.
People can continue driving gas-fueled vehicles and purchasing used ones after 2035. The plan also allows for one-fifth of sales after 2035 to be plug-in hybrids that can run on batteries and gas.
But it sets a course for ultimately ending the era of filling up at the local gas station. The switch from gas to electric cars will drastically reduce emissions and air pollutants. The transition may be painful in parts of the state that are still dominated by oil; California remains the seventh-largest oil producing state, though its output it falling as the state pushes forward with its climate goals.
"The climate crisis is solvable if we focus on the big, bold steps necessary to stem the tide of carbon pollution," Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday. He announced the 2035 goal two years ago and regulators have spent the time since then working out the details of what Newsom termed "the action we must take if we're serious about leaving this planet better off for future generations."
There are practical hurdles to overcome to reach the goal, notably enough reliable power and charging stations. California now has about 80,000 stations in public places, far short of the 250,000 it wants by 2025. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents many major car makers, flagged the lack of infrastructure, access to materials needed to make batteries, and supply chain issues among the challenges to meeting the state's timeline.
"These are complex, intertwined and global issues well beyond the control of either (the California Air Resources Board) or the auto industry," John Bozella, the group's president, said in a statement.
Though the state makes up 10% of the U.S. car market, it's home to 43% of the nation's 2.6 million registered plug-in vehicles, according to the air board.
California climate officials say the state's new policy will be the world's most ambitious because it sets clear benchmarks for ramping up electric vehicle sales over the next dozen years. By 2026, for example, one-third of new cars sold must be electric. About 16% of cars sold in California in the first three months of this year were electric.
The European Parliament in June backed a plan to effectively prohibit the sale of gas and diesel cars in the 27-nation bloc by 2035, and Canada has mandated the sale of zero-emission cars by the same year. The Chinese province of Hainan said this week it would do the same by 2030.
In the U.S., Massachusetts, Washington and New York are among states that have set goals to transform their car markets or have already committed to following California's new rules.
California has historically been granted permission by the U.S. Environmental Protection agency to set its own tailpipe emissions rules for cars, and 17 other states follow some or all of its policies.
The new electric vehicle rules will also require federal approval, which is considered likely with President Joe Biden in the White House. A future Republican president, though, could challenge California's authority to set its own car standards, as the Trump administration did.
Indeed, the new commitment comes as California works to maintain reliable electricity while it moves away from gas-fired power plants in favor of solar, wind and other cleaner sources of energy. Earlier this year, top energy officials warned the state could run out of power during the hottest days of summer, which happened briefly in August 2020.
That hasn't happened yet this year. But Newsom is pushing to keep open the state's last-remaining nuclear plant beyond its planned closer in 2025, and the state may turn to diesel generators or natural gas plants as a backup when the grid is strained.
Adding more car chargers will put a higher demand on the energy grid.
Ensuring access to charging stations is also key to ramping up electric vehicle sales. The infrastructure bill passed by Congress last year provides $5 billion for states to build charges every 50 miles (80 kilometers) along interstate highways. Newsom, meanwhile, has pledged to spend billions to boost zero-emission vehicle sales, including by adding chargers in low-income neighborhoods.
Driving an electric vehicle long distances today, even in California, requires careful planning about where to stop and charge, said Mary Nichols, former chair of the California Air Resources Board. The money from the state and federal government will go along way to boosting that infrastructure and making electric cars a more convenient option, she said.
"This is going to be a transformative process and the mandate for vehicle sales is only one piece of it," she said.
Though hydrogen is a fuel option under the new regulations, cars that run on fuel-cells have made up less than 1% of car sales in recent years.
Both the state and government have rebates for thousands of dollars to offset the cost of buying electric cars, and the rules have incentives for car makers to make used electric vehicles available to low- and middle-income people. Over the past 12 years, California has provided more than $1 billion in rebates for the sale of 478,000 electric, plug-in or hybrid vehicles, according to the air board.
WATCH ALSO: | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/california-gas-powered-cars/103-60664ceb-48ed-4b3d-88d6-4e2ec3c6198a | 2022-08-25T06:48:39 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/california-gas-powered-cars/103-60664ceb-48ed-4b3d-88d6-4e2ec3c6198a |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A $694 million grant is the latest step by California Governor Gavin Newsom to address the homeless crisis in the state.
Newsom plans to create 2,500 units to house the homeless in 19 different communities across the state. To that end, he pledged nearly $700 million to tackle one of the state's biggest challenges in homelessness.
“What I see out on the streets is simply unacceptable,” Newsom said.
That $700 million is spread across 19 communities, including cities like Stockton. The San Joaquin County city is slated to receive $4.1 million for 14 permanent units and one manager unit. There are 35 projects in total.
“I just want to see folks off the street," Newsom said. "I want it done compassionately, thoughtfully… to address the underlying issues and allow people the opportunity to live in dignity and get back on their feet.”
However, in places like Sacramento, which is not included among the recipients, the latest homeless count has close to 7,000 unhoused people without shelter in the county. Some say elected leaders aren't moving fast enough to bring people them indoors.
The funding comes as Sacramento County and city tackled the homeless crisis in their own way, passing new ordinances that include bans on homeless camping along places like city sidewalks and outside government buildings.
However, with not enough shelter available, those who are moved might have few options of where to go next. It's something Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg said he's working to resolve.
“We are building more shelter than ever before," Steinberg said. "We’re up to 1,100 beds and safe spaces in the city. When I started as mayor, we had less than 100, but we cannot do it alone.”
Still, people who live in midtown Sacramento said it's hard to turn a street corner without seeing a homeless encampment. They said elected leaders have been slow to act.
“It saddens me that, if anyone wanted to sell their property right now, it would be impossible,” said Jenny Reiken, a midtown resident.
However, Newsom said the new funding is just one step of many to tackle the problem statewide.
“We own this. We got to do more and we got to do better,” he said.
From 2019 to 2022, homelessness in Sacramento County jumped 67%, but in San Francisco, it actually dropped 3.5% and part of that is being credited to more shelter beds being made available.
While the money is getting spread across 19 communities, some say it doesn't go far enough.
WATCH ALSO: | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/newsom-700m-homeless-housing/103-89f90f22-7dd3-4ed5-a26d-9ef0a60302b9 | 2022-08-25T06:48:46 | 1 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/sacramento/newsom-700m-homeless-housing/103-89f90f22-7dd3-4ed5-a26d-9ef0a60302b9 |
MCCORDSVILLE, Ind. — Police are investigating a car-bicycle collision that killed a McCordsville woman Wednesday evening.
Police said 19-year-old Haylee Scott died after the 9 p.m. crash on County Road 800 North near Mount Comfort Road.
A McCordsville Police Department spokesperson said Scott was riding a bicycle, going east on 800 North, when she was struck by a car that was also going east.
Scott was taken to an Indianapolis hospital but died a short time later.
The driver of the car was given a chemical test after the crash, a requirement after a traffic accident involving a fatality. Police said the driver is fully cooperating with the investigation.
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No one else was injured.
The investigation by McCordsville Police is ongoing. They are being assisted by the county's Fatal Accident Crash Team.
What other people are reading: | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/mccordsville-woman-dead-after-car-bicycle-crash-fatality-investigation-hancock/531-4db8ee63-87a9-4b9b-9b78-532f064d0584 | 2022-08-25T07:08:27 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/mccordsville-woman-dead-after-car-bicycle-crash-fatality-investigation-hancock/531-4db8ee63-87a9-4b9b-9b78-532f064d0584 |
Oops, they did it again. I-83 closed after truck hits overpass.
Update 9:25 p.m.: The road remains closed.
Update 7:12 p.m.: From PennDOT: "Crews are currently trying to cut the truck bed to remove it."
Update 6:20 p.m.: The interstate remains closed. From PennDOT: "the northbound detour has been moved to exit 16, which basically means off ramp and on ramp at the bridge."
Update 5 p.m.: PennDOT reports: "there was some damage to a vehicle that was passing under the bridge. Flying debris shattered their windshield. Still waiting on bridge crew to arrive to determine structural condition."
Reported earlier:
Interstate 83 is closed in both directions at the Queen Street Exit 16, after a truck hit the overpass and cracked it, according to the state Department of Transportation.
It's the same bridge that was damaged already after a truck carrying an excavator struck it in February. Repairs, estimated at $600,000, are expected this fall.
How long the interstate will be closed today is not known, according to Fritzi Schreffler, PennDOT safety press officer, in a news release.
The crash happened at about 3 p.m., when a dump truck traveling north with its bed lifted hit the overpass, Schreffler said. The truck bed is lodged under the bridge.
Previous hit:Southbound Rt. 74 bridge closing after truck strikes overpass on Interstate 83
Also of interest:Interstate 83: From weightlifter to Case & Keg, icons have come and gone over the years
North and southbound I-83 are closed, as is Queen Street in that area, and traffic, which is being detoured off the interstate, is backed up in both directions.
"No idea how long the closure will last," Schreffler wrote. "We are waiting on our bridge crew to arrive."
The truck driver was injured, and no other vehicles were involved, she said.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates. | https://www.ydr.com/story/news/local/2022/08/24/interstate-83-closed-after-truck-strikes-queen-street-overpass-again/65418552007/ | 2022-08-25T07:15:39 | 1 | https://www.ydr.com/story/news/local/2022/08/24/interstate-83-closed-after-truck-strikes-queen-street-overpass-again/65418552007/ |
After a large weapons cache was found hidden inside a New Jersey hospital employee's closet, video released Wednesday offers the first look at the weapons stockpile.
Officers were called to Hudson Regional Hospital after a bomb threat was called in on the afternoon of July 18. While that threat turned out to be a hoax, a bomb detection dog alerted police to an unlocked closet inside a worker's office.
What the Secaucus police officers found inside was nothing short of shocking and unsettling. Nearly 40 firearms were found in all, with video showing the officers carry the guns out one by one. Police said that 11 handguns, 27 rifles and shotguns, and a .45-caliber semi-automatic Kriss Vector rifle with a high-capacity magazine were found inside. Fourteen rounds of high-capacity ammunition were also found.
Within minutes, the stashed weapons filled up the entire length of a table. Police later arrested Reuven Alonalayoff, who was working as the hospital's marketing director, on Aug. 7 at Newark Liberty International Airport, with the help of Homeland Security Investigations.
The 46-year-old Alonalayoff was charged with possession of an assault firearm and two counts of possession of a high-capacity magazine. It was not clear how the employee was able to get so many guns inside the hospital, or how long they had been stashed at that location. It also was not known what he was doing at the airport, or why he had so many guns at his office.
Prosecutors said he appeared in court on Monday. Those who live near Alonalayoff's Elmwood Park home called the whole situation a mystery, saying that he only lived on the block for about a year and they didn't know much about him.
One neighbor said that people have been shuffling in and out of the home over the past year or so, making the weapons arrest even stranger and more puzzling.
No one answered the door at the home on Wednesday. Attorney information for Alonalayoff was not immediately available.
Hudson Regional Hospital has refused to comment on the incident, or if safety protocols had changed since the cache was found. A spokesperson previously said that "the presence of weapons in a hospital is inexcusable" and that the incident has given them the opportunity to review their protocols. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/body-camera-footage-shows-nj-hospital-workers-secret-and-shocking-weapons-cache/3838189/ | 2022-08-25T08:05:33 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/body-camera-footage-shows-nj-hospital-workers-secret-and-shocking-weapons-cache/3838189/ |
INDIANAPOLIS — Madam C.J. Walker, the first documented female self-made millionaire, is being honored with a new Barbie doll.
Mattel, Inc. announced it would be paying tribute to the entrepreneur and philanthropist as part of its Barbie Inspiring Women Series.
"The Barbie® Inspiring Women™ Series pays tribute to incredible heroines of their time; courageous women who took risks, changed rules and paved the way for generations of girls to dream bigger than ever before," Mattel's product description of the doll reads. "The series proudly honors Madam C.J. Walker as its next addition."
One of the twentieth century's most successful women entrepreneurs, Walker made her fortune by developing and marketing a line of hair care and cosmetics products through the business she incorporated in Indianapolis in 1910, the Madam C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company.
The doll is available for purchase for $35 at several major retailors. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/barbie-pays-tribute-madam-cj-walker-new-doll/531-4a776abe-a38f-40fa-84e7-6b99a3b51d5d | 2022-08-25T08:35:41 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/barbie-pays-tribute-madam-cj-walker-new-doll/531-4a776abe-a38f-40fa-84e7-6b99a3b51d5d |
A company financially backed by BlackRock, one of the world’s largest asset managers, felt the wrath of Bremer and Buchanan counties Monday and Tuesday evenings.
During the 3-1/2 hours of informational meetings held in both the counties this week, a few dozen residents asked questions, but several took issue with and formulated arguments against the purported proposal and rationale of infrastructure developer Navigator for building a carbon pipeline through their farmland and that of their neighbors.
Drivers will be better off heading directly to Hawkeye Road (Iowa Highway 21) to get to their destination.
Company representatives were on hand to answer queries during the kick-off meeting, and to confirm or refute claims presented by attendees at the meetings, which at points, especially in Bremer County, got somewhat heated.
The meetings attracted a couple hundred people in total. One was held Monday in Independence and the other was Tuesday in Waverly.
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“You people are not improving anybody’s lifestyle in Iowa,” said Jim Miller, a retired farmer and one of the impacted landowners. “Right now, we’re sitting in the bread basket of the world right here in Iowa and you people want to plow your line through everybody’s farm here, ruin their farms, and you are improving nothing.”
The firm plans to construct the pipeline in 2024, but it first needs to successfully obtain a hazardous liquid pipeline permit from the Iowa Utilities Board.
A separate public hearing will be scheduled for people interested in voicing their approval or opposition on the record and for consideration by the board. Technically, all opinions stated and arguments made Monday and Tuesday nights could not be weighed as evidence.
A person is welcomed to file a letter of support or objection online – at iub.iowa.gov and select “file a comment or objection in an open docket” – or through the mail.
In the meantime, now that the public information meetings have been held, Navigator will begin negotiations on voluntary right-of-way easement agreements with impacted property owners in Bremer and Buchanan counties.
An Evansdale woman has in mind bringing cameras to the trailheads and parking lots, as well as ‘blue light beacons' one might see on a college campus.
The company also pitches providing payments for land damages and losses.
For the properties in which an agreement is not reached, the expectation is Navigator will put together a case for eminent domain, a rare request made to the IUB.
Being granted that authority would require additional board hearings and proof to be demonstrated by the company that there’s a public good, purpose or use for it.
Additionally, before deals are signed, land surveys are required and company representatives cannot be denied by a property owner access to the grounds if the proper notice is given.
Five states are part of the preliminary 1300-mile route of piping, of which about 810 miles is in Iowa. It will capture and transport up to 15 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emitted by 21 ethanol and fertilizer processors.
The processors would pay fees to Navigator to use the “carbon management platform” – similarly proposed by a few other companies at this time, but not yet constructed. Those companies are Valero, POET, Big River Resources, OCI, Iowa Fertilizer Company and Siouxland Ethanol.
In one of many back and forth dialogues those evenings spurred by attendees, Miller said a family member worked at an ethanol plant in Shell Rock and “never had” an incident involving CO2.
First responders were never called to the plant for an emergency, Miller said in arguing that there is no need for the pipeline that would put people at risk.
“You people want to take this product, which is harmless and we all need in this state for our vegetation and growth, and put it in a pipeline under 2,000 pounds of pressure, and it becomes a hazardous material. I don’t understand why you’re doing this. It makes no sense.”
Some plants transport the liquid CO2 via truck.
Elizabeth Burns-Thompson, vice president of government and public affairs, pointed to the economic and environmental drivers behind the infrastructure, and how there’s value added to ethanol based on its carbon intensity.
“We are not new to quantifiable characteristics that determine the value of commodities we’re bringing to market,” Burns-Thompson said. “You, as a farmer, every load of grain you likely took across the scale, you got a scale ticket, and on there you were docked if you were outside of that sweet spot on moisture, or FM (foreign material) or damage. That’s because those were quantifiable characteristics that determined the value of that commodity that you’re bringing to market.
“Carbon is becoming much the same way. It’s something they can quantify.”
Navigator and the processors can receive federal 45Q Tax Credits – introduced under the President George W. Bush administration and updated several times since then, including most recently by the President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act – for their role in helping the country reach its goals of decarbonization.
As part of the process, the hazardous carbon liquid could be sequestered in central Illinois. Or there’s said to also be a carbon market for “future innovative uses.”
Despite it being in a dangerous state, under immense pressure, the company believes it will have the personnel, technologies and relationships with first responders to operate it safely and respond to possible emergencies.
However, many speakers harkened back to a CO2 pipeline exploding in Satartia, Mississippi in February of 2020, and feared a leak could lead to wide-spread asphyxiation.
Brett Waggett, of Waverly, took issue with the company not releasing to the public, just the regulator, its plume models, which would predict the paths and concentrations of those released contaminants, and argued computer models aren’t even right a lot of the time.
“If we have a massive leak, that you don’t catch right away and I know you have that fiber cable and it’s supposed to be great and everything, technology does fail, and I can tell you that,” Waggett said.
“But if we have a major leak and you don’t catch it right away, and wind’s blowing to the south toward Waverly, Iowa in a low spot, you’re basically putting everybody in this entire town at risk of asphyxiation from a carbon dioxide pipe that none of us even want.” | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/carbon-pipeline-proposal-sparks-debate-during-bremer-buchanan-informational-meetings/article_8e26e312-749f-55ea-b9ce-66763c60cb5a.html | 2022-08-25T09:06:08 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/carbon-pipeline-proposal-sparks-debate-during-bremer-buchanan-informational-meetings/article_8e26e312-749f-55ea-b9ce-66763c60cb5a.html |
Venice officials to meet with resident group seeking to rescind new land development rules
VENICE – The city of Venice will take a two-pronged approach in response to a citizens' initiative to collect signatures for a petition to launch a referendum designed to repeal new land development regulations.
On Tuesday, the City Council agreed with a recommendation by City Attorney Kelly Fernandez to retain outside legal counsel to research a provision in the Venice charter that a committee of five residents is using to challenge the land development laws.
On a separate tack, City Manager Ed Lavallee sent a letter to Frank Wright, chairman of the group known as Venice Unites, as well as the other four members – Lisa Jarvio, Judith Cross, Betty Intagiata and Patricia Shreeve – about meeting to “specifically define the objectionable elements" of the land development rules "and determine if we might resolve some or all of the issues.”
Previously: Venice residents get OK for petition on referendum to repeal land development rules
In June:Council gives initial approval to new land development rules
The petition drive started while the council was on summer break, so Tuesday was the first time Fernandez could explain the ramifications of the petition process.
Venice Unites must collect 2,228 signatures from registered voters, which would exclude non-resident snowbirds and county residents, for the referendum to be eligible for the November 2023 ballot.
That effort started in earnest last weekend. As soon as the petition with a sufficient number of signatures is submitted to City Clerk Kelly Michaels, the new land development regulations would be suspended.
“We realize it just gets more and more complex, the more you think about it,” Fernandez said.
The chief complaints about the new rules center around height regulations.
The new rules allow for, among other things, buildings as tall as 35 feet in the downtown historic district – with the height measured to the midpoint of the roofline, and another 7 feet for features such as chimneys or elevator shafts.
The previous standards allowed for 35 feet in height measured to the top of a structure and an unlimited height for added features.
Over the objection of many residents who spoke at public hearings, the midpoint standard was adopted so architects could create three-story buildings with a gabled roof instead of a flat roof.
Other height-related concerns include a limit of 75 feet in a new Downtown Edge District that includes several blocks with John Nolen-era homes, and commercial development with potential regional attraction in a planned-unit development.
That last objection was raised in response to developer Pat Neal’s plan to build a shopping center at the intersection of Laurel and River roads.
Neal, as a precautionary measure and to preserve his vested rights, submitted a site plan for that center – rumored to be anchored by a Publix – under the old land development regulations.
That means the petition and referendum would have no impact on that potential development.
However a petition submission would affect a variety of regulations regarding building codes and flood plains – and even the zoning for a proposed five-acre park in Northeast Venice.
Meeting may result in remedy
Lavallee and Fernandez are expected to meet with the members of Venice Unites before the next council meeting on Sept. 13.
“Our intention is to try and see if we can mitigate some of the discontent on the issues they will raise,” Lavallee told the council. “If we can successfully put together some language that is agreeable to them, we will bring them back to you for consideration.”
Fernandez noted that technically any revisions to the new land development regulations would have to pass through the Planning Commission first.
The council rescheduled other actions tied to new land development regulations – dissolution of the Architectural Review and Historic Preservation boards and appointment of members to a new Historic and Architectural Review Board – until the Sept. 13 meeting as well.
The push for the referendum grew from a suggestion of Mayor Ron Feinsod and is detailed in Article IX of the Venice City Charter.
Feinsod, who had pushed for a delay in the votes to approve the new ordinance, said that the council ignored clear and specific concerns raised at the two adoption hearings. He was the member to vote against hiring a special attorney for the issue.
“Because of the scope, the massive overreach of what this is, we would be irresponsible if we did not really move forward on finding out what the legal ramifications would be should this go forward,” Council member Helen Moore said. “We need to be prepared to go forward.”
In addition to talking with Venice Unites, Lavallee said the city would develop a fact sheet to address rumors and inaccurate interpretation of the ramifications of the new development rules.
Frustration was evident
Council Member Mitzie Fiedler said that she could see the frustration on the faces of people who spoke at the public hearings – a process which generally does not include an answer from council members.
“We were just listening for five minutes and they sat down,” Fiedler said.
She said that the process was less inclusive than the one used to receive public comment on the 2017 comprehensive plan, which had dozens of meetings – many of which allowed residents to use stickers to express their preferences.
She noted that city staff members are already planning to offer updates to the land development regulations on sustainability and affordable housing, which offers a suitable opportunity for the regulations to be modified and not scrapped.
The last time residents attempted to put a referendum regarding land development rules on the ballot occurred in 2000, when five residents sought to challenge the city’s annexation of the 1,092-acre Henry Ranch, now developed as the Venetian Golf & River Club.
Council Member Rachel Frank made the motion to hire an outside attorney though her initial reaction was to let the referendum process happen.
She later said that Venice Unites was trying to keep Venice in the 1970s – the last time the city’s development rules were subject to a major revision – then added, “We have to retain legal counsel because they have threatened the city.”
Earle Kimel primarily covers south Sarasota County for the Herald-Tribune and can be reached at earle.kimel@heraldtribune.com. Support local journalism with a digital subscription to the Herald-Tribune. | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/venice/2022/08/25/venice-city-manager-attorney-meet-citizens-over-referendum-plan/7871821001/ | 2022-08-25T09:15:05 | 0 | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/venice/2022/08/25/venice-city-manager-attorney-meet-citizens-over-referendum-plan/7871821001/ |
TUPELO • The skate scene is so much more than just skateboarding. It’s art. It’s clothing. It’s music.
It’s fitting then that Change Tupelo’s inaugural festival incorporates all of these elements.
The locally owned skateboards shop will host the first-of-its-kind Change Tupelo Festival on Sept. 2-3 at multiple locations across the King of Rock and Roll's hometown. The event is free to all attendees.
Matt Robinson is the owner of Change, Tupelo’s first locally owned skateboard shop, which has existed in Tupelo on and off since 1996, and the mastermind behind the festival. The shop was Tupelo’s first locally owned skate shop.
Change Tupelo Festival is an all-inclusive arts experience that will feature skateboarding, live music, painting and much more.
"This is a monumental thing to be coming to Tupelo," Robinson said. "The casual person that enjoys live music and can appreciate art that is outside of the mainstream of what they're used to seeing is welcome.”
Change's home location on Cliff Gookin Boulevard will host the first night of the festival, starting at 5:45 p.m on Friday, Sept. 2. Friday evening's agenda will comprise exclusive meet and greets with special guests like Blair Alley, Brandon Novak, Christian Hosoi, Clyde Singleton and DeWayne "Steezus Christ" McMurray along with live music and food.
Saturday's events will begin at 11 a.m. on West Main Street, between Broadway and Front Street, with a VIP "Cooking with Clyde" pop-up meal with legendary professional skater and chef Clyde Singleton.
Olympic skateboarding athletes and other skateboarding legends will be in attendance to show their skills on intricate, custom-built obstacle courses sprinkled along Main Street in Tupelo.
Robinson stressed even nonskaters will find much to enjoy during the festival.
"Even if you're not a skater dude, you'll think 'wow'," Robinson said.
Live music will kick off at 12:30 p.m. and continue until 10 p.m. on Saturday, and the Punk Rock and Paintbrushes Art Show will begin at 1 p.m. that afternoon.
The rest of Saturday's festivities will include live music, a professional skateboarding demonstration and the Super Skate Posse Giveback.
The giveback event will provide new skateboarding necessities to 100 children from Tupelo's two Boys and Girls Clubs locations.
"We're going to be giving away 100 skateboards, 100 pairs of Vans shoes and 100 helmets to 100 kids that we've worked with Northside and Haven Acres Boys & Girls Clubs to identify," Robinson said. "It's boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 16 who are coming out of this as new skaters."
To Robinson, the inaugural Change Tupelo Festival is valuable to the community because it provides a unique experience for skateboarders as well as those who don’t know an ollie from a footplant.
"I think when people hear punk rock and skateboarding, they think there's a uniform for that,” Robinson said. “But we are genuinely concerned about the function of art in society and how it can make the world a better place.”
The event will continue for at least the next two years, bringing a live music event to Tupelo during the typically sparse Labor Day Weekend.
Although the September event is free to the public, VIP packages can be purchased to provide event attendees with additional special experiences. For package information, visit Change Tupelo's website at changetupelo.com.
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Error! There was an error processing your request. | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/change-tupelo-festival-to-debut-labor-day-weekend/article_01d810f4-b410-5082-b13c-2259699e093a.html | 2022-08-25T09:19:50 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/change-tupelo-festival-to-debut-labor-day-weekend/article_01d810f4-b410-5082-b13c-2259699e093a.html |
TUPELO • On any given day, passersby at Veterans Park may hear the sounds of a cello echoing across the lake and parking lots.
From familiar movie franchise themes from "The Godfather" or "Pirates of the Caribbean" to classical tunes, 23-year-old Tupelo native Anthony McGee said he aims to spread happiness through practicing and performing in public.
He sits at a picnic table under a pavilion with his dog, Medusa, most every day, playing his cello.
McGee has played music for much of his life and picked up the stringed instrument in sixth grade. Over the years, he’s played multiple instruments, including the violin, trombone, baritone, trumpet, tuba, saxophone and French horn. He also raps and writes his own music.
But his current focus is cello.
McGee’s playing is purely passionate, not professional. Although he said he played in both orchestra and band as a student in the Tupelo Public School District, after graduating high school in 2017, he gave up music for around five years.
McGee spent three years incarcerated for a felony property crime and was released in September 2021. He sees the situation not as time down the drain, but as a leg up, allowing it to light the fire he needed to achieve his goals.
"A sip like this is precious," McGee said, drinking from a bottle of white cherry Powerade on Tuesday afternoon. "I'm so content to be 23. I'm dealing with stress and life problems now, but I'm loving it. It gives me a thrill to wake up another day."
He's currently working as a pet consultant for NéVetica, a company that sells pet supplements. He plans to attend Itawamba Community College in spring 2023 to study computer networking.
In the meantime, he's not letting anything get him down.
He got his current cello, nicknamed Cecilia, last November, and plans to continue playing at the park.
Whether he's holding the instrument horizontally and plucking the strings like a guitar or vertically, temporarily playing the instrument with a violin bow because Medusa chewed up his cello bow, McGee knows he's spreading joy.
"I do it because I feel free," McGee said. "Life feels brand new to me every time, man. When I step out the house every day — every day from Sept. 14, the time I got out, to now. Every day I wake up, it feels brand new."
People often park away from the pavilion and roll down their car windows to listen from afar, McGee said. He wishes they'd come closer.
"Yeah, you hear me messing up in all of these tunes because I'm just practicing, I'm just playing around," McGee said. "But if you come over here, all them out of whack notes is going to tune up really quick, and I'm going to give you something that's so phenomenal."
He enjoys practicing and learning songs in public, intentionally putting himself in an awkward situation.
"I try to intertwine out-of-the-ordinary things with normal," McGee said. "Playing my cello, for instance. I come to this park every day. As long as I've been here, my 23 years in Mississippi, I've never seen anybody else do it. That's why I do it."
The music serves as a stress reliever for both himself and the listener.
"If I play some music for you, my stress is getting put all into this music and this music is filtering this stress and putting all of the bad stuff out," McGee said. "So when you receive the music, I've done channeled all that stress that I done had by you laughing and smiling at my songs and me playing my music. That right there balances out my life on the other end, because now I've done used my superpower to actually benefit somebody in the best way possible — music."
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Error! There was an error processing your request. | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/veterans-park-cello-player-aims-to-spread-happiness-through-public-practice-performance/article_de7ccb47-615f-56d9-9b51-dcc51fd89c29.html | 2022-08-25T09:20:01 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/news/local/veterans-park-cello-player-aims-to-spread-happiness-through-public-practice-performance/article_de7ccb47-615f-56d9-9b51-dcc51fd89c29.html |
YORK COUNTY, Pa. — Update, 9:29 p.m.: Fritzi Schreffler with the Pa. Department of Transportation has released a statement concerning the crash.
According to Schreffler, the truck bed has been removed. The current plan is to put support beams across the damaged area as a temporary fix so that Interstate-83 can be opened in both directions.
However, the materials needed for this task are in Franklin County. Officials hope that I-83 and one lane of State Route 74 (South Queen Street) will be re-open to traffic by Friday morning.
As of right now, motorists on I-83 will be able to make is as far as the exit for Route 74 (Exit 16). They will then be directed straight over and back onto I-83, to avoid traveling directly underneath the bridge.
The map provided below shows the detours travelers will be taking over the following days, provided by the York County Office of Emergency Management.
In addition to the bridge damage, I-83 north was damaged and will need to be patched.
More permanent repairs will need to be completed sometime in the future.
Update, 8:48 p.m.: According to the York County Regional Police Department, The South Queen Street bridge at Interstate-83 will be closed for the next two days.
The closure comes as crews work to secure the bridge after a truck struck and damaged it.
There will be marked detours in place to route traffic around the closed bridge.
Officials are asking that travelers along the route plan accordingly and expect longer commutes while the bridge is closed.
Update, 7:35 p.m.: According to Fritzi Schreffler with the Pa. Department of Transportation, the northbound detour has been moved to Exit 16.
Crews are currently trying to cut the truck bed from underneath the bridge to remove it.
Previously:
A truck has reportedly crashed into South Queen Street Bridge on Interstate-83 at exit 14 in York township, York County.
The crash occurred on I-83 Northbound between exit Pa. 182- Leader Heights and Exit 16B: Pa. 74 South Queen Street just before 3 p.m. on Wednesday.
According to Fritzi Schreffler with the Pa. Department of Transportation, the bed of a truck traveling north hit the overpass for Route 74 and cracked it, lodging the truck bed underneath the bridge.
Officials with the York County Office of Emergency Management say another vehicle was involved.
Currently, I-83 lanes north and southbound are closed, as well as South Queen Street over I-83.
It is currently unclear how long the closures will last, as officials wait for bridge crews to arrive on the scene.
It is currently unknown the extent of the injuries, but the truck driver was removed on a stretcher.
This is the second time this year a truck has crashed underneath the South Queen Street Bridge. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/crash-into-queen-street-bridge-leaves-lanes-closed-on-i-83-pennsylvania/521-22319f4c-5856-4305-9e25-3ab0414ad089 | 2022-08-25T09:20:08 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/crash-into-queen-street-bridge-leaves-lanes-closed-on-i-83-pennsylvania/521-22319f4c-5856-4305-9e25-3ab0414ad089 |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — The lights and ovens are off at Knead Slice Shop in downtown Harrisburg.
It's seemingly for good.
"It’s really disappointing and it’s extremely disrespectful and it’s not what we expected at all," said Jessie Pierce, a former crew member at Knead.
Knead’s decision to close both its North Third Street and Broad Street Market locations was announced Tuesday through its Instagram.
“The fact that we were all essentially let go with no notice. We didn’t even find out from our employer that the shop was permanently closing," said Pierce. "We found out from Instagram.”
It comes just days after the shop’s 11 employees filed an official petition to unionize.
“We wanted a voice in our workplace," said Pierce. "We wanted basic worker protections. We wanted the things every worker ought to have.”
Consistent scheduling, livable wages, proper training and a safe work environment are just some of the things they were asking for, according to the group's post on Instagram.
“This isn’t what anyone wanted at all," said Maya Coover, another former Knead crew member. "I don’t think we saw it going down this way, at least not without having a conversation.”
A message on Knead Pizza’s door from the owners says their decision to close has nothing to do with their employees’ attempt to unionize.
Employees say, while they can’t speculate, they’re not so sure that’s true.
“It certainly seems as though should we had not presented the petition to unionize, the slice shop and Broad Street Market would still be open," said Pierce.
Workers are now taking legal action.
They have filed unfair labor practice charges against Knead, alleging the closure is retaliation for their union efforts.
FOX43 confirmed that action with the National Labor Relations Board.
The fight comes at a time when labor unions are gaining traction across large and small companies alike.
“We’re seeing it across the state and across the country," said Alex Halper, director of government affairs at the PA Chamber of Business and Industry.
Halper says for many small businesses like Knead, a union can be a scary thought.
“It can be very disruptive," said Halper. "It can change the culture of a workplace where employer and employees are used to working together and now you have this third party getting involved and intervening.”
As many continue to recover from the pandemic, he says it’s not something they can bear.
“Now they’re dealing with inflation and supply chain disruptions," said Halper. "It’s a very challenging time and I’m sympathetic to any employer who’s resisting this kind of campaign.”
FOX43 reached out to the owners of Knead Slice Shop, requesting an interview but did not hear back.
“We weren’t trying to shut the place down. I hope that’s obvious," said Pierce. "We want our jobs back. The customers didn’t want them to close. Nobody in the community wanted to see Knead go under.” | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/knead-slice-shop-harrisburg-closes-labor-union-workers-take-legal-action/521-1b9a2962-bd77-4f8f-8b85-aec177703cad | 2022-08-25T09:20:12 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/knead-slice-shop-harrisburg-closes-labor-union-workers-take-legal-action/521-1b9a2962-bd77-4f8f-8b85-aec177703cad |
MIDDLETOWN, Pa. — Editor's note: The above video is from Aug. 22.
The Middletown Area School District has cancelled its upcoming high school football season after a second video of the suspected hazing incident involving members of the team earlier this month surfaced, showing that the number of students involved was more widespread than previously known, Superintendent Dr. Chelton Hunter said in a letter to parents and guardians Wednesday.
"We have obtained an additional videotape showing the Middletown Area high school football hazing incident which took place inside our heat acclimation room," Hunter's letter said. "Unfortunately, this video demonstrates that this hazing was much more widespread, and involved many more students, than we had previously known."
As a result, Hunter said, school administration decided to cancel the entire 2022 football season.
"I know this decision will be met with many different opinions and emotions and will impact many students and families," Hunter said.
The school district shared the new video with law enforcement officials, Hunter said. The school district is continuing its own investigation of the incident.
Investigators with the Dauphin County District Attorney's Office are already looking into the incident, which was reported to the school district on August 12,. Lower Swatara Township Police requested that the DA's office take over the investigation after being notified by the school district earlier this month.
Any students found to have participated in the incident will be disciplined according to the school district's policies on hazing and code of conduct, Hunter said Wednesday.
"Any staff members who have ignored this kind of hazing will also face disciplinary action," Hunter added.
"This kind of hazing that occurred in our facilities with this team is reprehensible," Hunter said. "It simply cannot and will not be tolerated."
The school district was first informed of the suspected hazing by members of the football team on August 12, after a video showing an incident was circulated on social media.
The video appeared to show a group of students holding down two of their teammates. The players allegedly used a muscle therapy gun and another piece of athletic equipment to poke the buttock region of the students on the ground.
The school district launched its own investigation and contacted law enforcement.
Hunter released a statement 10 days after the incident was reported, calling the initial video "difficult to watch" and the conduct depicted "a completely unacceptable, offensive, and highly inappropriate act."
The players identified in the first video were removed from the football team pending the outcome of the investigation and the completion of the discipline process, according to Hunter.
On Aug. 15, head football coach Scott Acri resigned, and assistant coach Rod Brodish took over as acting head coach.
The football team had a scrimmage last Saturday against Northern York High School. It would prove to be the last time the team took the field this year.
Hunter said the school district will work to address the culture of the team and educate students about hazing.
The school district will work to find alternative opportunities to perform for the high school's cheerleading squad and marching band, both of which will be affected by the cancellation of the football season, Hunter said.
The school's Homecoming event, which typically occurs in conjunction with a football game, will also be subject to alternative plans, according to Hunter.
Middletown's scheduled Week 1 opponent, Lower Dauphin, issued the following statement after learning Friday's game was off:
"Lower Dauphin was contacted by Middletown Area School District officials today regarding the cancellation of their football season.
Lower Dauphin was scheduled to play the Raiders on Friday night at Hersheypark Stadium. That game has been cancelled.
After unsuccessfully trying to find a last-minute opponent for Friday night, our team will seek an opponent for the end of the season.
We apologize to our students, parents and fans for this last-minute change to our schedule. Our thoughts are with Middletown as they navigate this difficult situation."
Hunter's full letter appears below.
Dear Parent/Guardian:
It is with great regret that I’m writing to share with you that we have obtained an additional videotape showing (the) Middletown Area High School Football hazing incident which took place inside our heat acclimation room. Unfortunately, this video demonstrates that this hazing was much more widespread, and involved many more students, than we had previously known.
In light of this, we have made the decision to cancel the 2022 football season. I know this decision will be met with many different opinions and emotions and will impact many students and families.
We have shared the new video with law enforcement officials and will continue to work to complete our own investigation. Any students found to have participated in this incident will be disciplined in accordance with our student code of conduct and hazing policy. Any staff members who were found to have ignored this kind of hazing will also face disciplinary action.
The kind of hazing that occurred in our facilities with this team is reprehensible. It simply cannot and will not be tolerated. We know we must work to address the culture of this team, educate our student body about hazing, and put programs in place to help us ensure that this kind of atmosphere is never allowed to exist in our school facilities.
Our administrative team and athletic director will work to find other opportunities this fall for our cheerleading team and marching band, since they will be impacted by this season cancellation. We will also work to make alternative plans for Homecoming, which is typically scheduled around a football game.
We’ll communicate additional information as we’re able to do so, and as we work through this investigation.
Again, I know this is difficult news. We’ll work to bring our school community together in a positive manner as we move forward into the new school year. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/middletown-hazing-football-season-cancelled/521-d9683a3a-ddec-42bd-b3c3-8cd258de73c1 | 2022-08-25T09:20:31 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/middletown-hazing-football-season-cancelled/521-d9683a3a-ddec-42bd-b3c3-8cd258de73c1 |
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Governor Tom Wolf announced Wednesday that thousands of the older and disabled Pennsylvanians who already received a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021 will receive a one-time bonus rebate beginning this week.
The bonuses are being delivered to claimants of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program via a proposal that Gov. Wolf recently signed into law.
"I am proud that bonus rebates are starting to roll out to Pennsylvanians in need this week," said Gov. Wolf. "For older adults in particular- many of whom are on a fixed income- a bonus Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program rebate this year will be a gamechanger. These bonus rebates will help older adults and Pennsylvanians with disabilities stay in their homes."
Under the new law, Pennsylvanians will receive an additional one-time bonus rebate equal to 70 percent of their original rebate. The total amount a claimant can receive could total as much as $1,657.50. This is an increase from the previous maximum of $975.
According to the Wolf administration, The Department of Revenue has already processed 361,042 one-time bonus rebates for claimants who were approved for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021.
These claimants do not need to take any additional action to secure their bonus rebates, they will automatically receive their one-time bonus through the same method (direct deposit or mailed paper check) that they received their original rebates earlier in the year.
"Although we originally said that we expected one-time bonus rebates to be paid starting in September, we are extremely pleased that we're ahead of schedule and prepared to start providing this needed relief earlier than expected," Revenue Secretary Dan Hassell said.
"At the same time, we are asking claimants who are expecting a paper check in the mail to be patient. It will take several weeks to mail all of the checks for the one-time bonus rebates, whereas those who elected direct deposit on their application forms should see their bonus rebates sooner," said Hassell.
Designed to provide additional relief to some of Pennsylvania's most vulnerable residents who are still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rebates are paid for with $140 million in funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
No action is needed if you are an eligible claimant of the Property/Tax Rent Rebate Program and have already filed an application for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021. The Department of Revenue will take care of everything on the back end to ensure those who qualify receive their original rebate and bonus rebate for the 2021 claim year.
For those who have not yet filed an application, you are encouraged to do so.
Eligible Pennsylvanians can fill out an application here. Claimants can also find a paper application and instructions on the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program by visiting this website.
For those who are still waiting for their 2021 claim to be processed and approved, following approval they will receive a combined rebate in a one-time payment. Those eligible will receive the combined rebate through the elected method on the application form- either a check or direct deposit.
Those who have not submitted an application for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021 will also receive one combined payment if they are approved.
The Department of Revenue is encouraging eligible applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible.
The processing of rebates and bonus rebates will continue through the end of the year, as additional applications are received. The deadline to apply for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2021 is Dec. 31, 2022.
It's free to apply for the rebate and applications are being reminded that free assistance is available at hundreds of locations across the state. Assistance can be found at Department of Revenue district offices, local Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers and state legislators' offices.
Applicants may also visit the department's Online Customer Service Center to find helpful tips and answers to commonly asked questions regarding the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.
Visit this page on the Department of Revenue's website for more information on the program, including income limits and historical background. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/wolf-administrations-one-time-bonus-distributed-this-week-pennsylvania/521-8ff24857-f0d4-44b7-a217-5fd1001ef1ef | 2022-08-25T09:20:37 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/wolf-administrations-one-time-bonus-distributed-this-week-pennsylvania/521-8ff24857-f0d4-44b7-a217-5fd1001ef1ef |
If you see it, kill it. Spotted lanternfly has been found in another Hoosier location.
Kill them without mercy. That's the message being sent along the eastern seaboard of the U.S. and into the Midwest about an inch-long winged insect known as the spotted lanternfly.
It's also the message Megan Abraham, director of the state Division of Entomology and Plant Pathology, has for Hoosiers after the spotted lanternfly was discovered in the Huntington area in northern Indiana. The insect was first found in July 2021 in Vevay in southern Indiana.
The insect is a huge problem for wineries and orchards because it sucks the sap from vines and trees, slowing the growth of the fruit. For wineries, that changes the acidity of the grapes' juice, affecting the vintages created. Since the insect is from Asia, it has no natural predators and has been able to reproduce in large numbers.
First discovery in Indiana:Asian insect known to kill native plants, trees found in Indiana
Abraham and other state workers have been looking for the lanternfly in downtown Huntington, where it was discovered in July near a railroad track and a transportation company. Both railroad cars and semi-trailer trucks are known to spread the invasive insect from it was initially discovered in 2014 in Pennsylvania.
"We're not sure how it got there," Abraham said of the downtown Huntington location, "but it seems to point to one of those (railroad cars or semi-trailers) as being a contributor."
Now she and her staff are working to determine how big the infestation is while also trying to eradicate the insects. They were first found in southern Indiana last year in Vevay. The goal is to treat both locations before winter, when the adult insects will disappear.
Another invasive species that's spread throughout Indiana is contributing to the expansion of the spotted lanternfly. Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an Asian species that's been spreading across the U.S. and is a favorite food source for the insect. The trees are often found in areas where the ground has been disturbed, such as along railroad tracks. The lanternflies climb high up on a tree, railroad car or truck trailer and then glide down to eat and reproduce. Because of that, Abraham and her staff are spraying trees with insecticide to kill any lanternflies.
"The truth is we have to do what we can to eradicate these new invasives as much as we can," Abraham said.
Why is the spotted lanternfly a problem?
The spotted lanternfly is a voracious eater that makes a mess, she explained. While people may not see the actual insect, if there are spotted lanternflies eating in trees or vines above, there will be sticky honeydew, or liquid insect excrement, underneath. If there is honeydew present, then blackish, sooty mold will soon follow. Sooty mold is a fungal disease that grows on surfaces where honeydew has been deposited.
"There can be so many of these insects it can almost be like it's raining," Abraham said.
While spotted lanternflies are a menace, they cannot harm people. Spotted lanternflies are a leafhopper and have mouthparts made for sucking the juice and sap out of plants, not biting.
Spotted lanternfly discovered at Butlery Winery in recent years
Besides tree of heaven, grapevines are another favorite snack for the insects, which is why Jim Butler, owner of Butler Winery in Bloomington, has been following the locations where spotted lanternflies have been discovered for the past three or four years.
"It looked like it came across on the Pennsylvania turnpike," Butler said, adding Purdue University and other agricultural officials have been discussing the insect in Indiana for some time. It's the same with winery officials: "Every meeting this past year, it's about the spotted lanternfly."
Butler said he's heard over and over again, "If you see it, step on it."
For Butler, it's just the latest in a long line of invasive pests causing problems. The first he can remember was the Japanese beetle, which was a huge problem in 1992 when the first grapevines were planted at Butler Winery. For the first year or two, workers picked off the beetles by hand. But then they were so thick that wasn't possible.
Others are reading:Timber rattlesnakes in Deam Wilderness captured on video in hypnotic dance for dominance
After a couple more years, the beetles weren't such a problem at the vineyard. Butler suspects it's because they spread out and predators started to eat them. He suspects the same eventually will happen with the spotted lanternfly.
"Sometimes these things show up and wreak havoc for five years or so and then it slows down," he said.
This year Butler said it's the birds not bugs that are the biggest problem. Netting over the grapes is the only way to prevent large losses of fruit. This year orchard orioles are the main trouble, along with robins and crows, he said. He doesn't expect the spotted lanternfly to be a problem this year.
"Maybe next year. Hopefully in five years," he said.
What to do if you see a spotted lanternfly
As with other invasive pest species, there are currently no natural predators to help keep spotted lanternfly populations in check.
"(Spotted lanternflies) are not really a known food source, which means it's a bit of a freefall in the beginning," Abraham said. "There's nothing out there to stop them except human beings."
That's why social media posts about the invasive insect are encouraging people to immediately kill any of the insects they see. Since it's early in the infestation in Indiana, Abraham said there isn't much research into what steps should be taken to stop the spread.
"We need to give the researchers and scientists who can help with this a little more time, especially before it hits the western states where there are more wineries," Abraham said.
She encourages anyone who thinks they may have seen a spotted lanternfly to call or email her department. Anyone who wants to share what they've seen or ask questions can call 1-866-NO EXOTIC (1-866-663-9684) or email depp@dnr.in.gov. People should leave their name, contact number and detailed information about what they are reporting. People are encouraged to share any photos they have taken.
For more on spotted lanternflies, go online to https://bit.ly/3TeCFus or https://bit.ly/3AKaFrf. | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/spotted-lanternfly-invasive-insect-found-in-huntington-indiana/65416575007/ | 2022-08-25T09:33:37 | 0 | https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/spotted-lanternfly-invasive-insect-found-in-huntington-indiana/65416575007/ |
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Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/man-walks-into-wawa-after-being-shot-in-philadelphia/3344769/ | 2022-08-25T10:05:06 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/man-walks-into-wawa-after-being-shot-in-philadelphia/3344769/ |
Coos-Curry County Farm Bureau is pleased to announce Wiley Lang is the recipient of the Coos-Curry County Farm Bureau scholarship in the amount of $3,000 for the 2022-23 school year. Lang is an honor graduate of Pacific High School and will be attending Oregon State University in the fall in the field of animal science.
She has had extensive ranch experience and raised her own livestock. Lang has been active in Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society, Coos County 4-H and Coos Youth Auction as well as serving as student body president at Pacific High School. | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/farm-bureau-awards-scholarship/article_d12dbd70-218b-11ed-84a7-c35f8b868b17.html | 2022-08-25T10:16:14 | 0 | https://theworldlink.com/news/local/farm-bureau-awards-scholarship/article_d12dbd70-218b-11ed-84a7-c35f8b868b17.html |
Kirksey, Young, Hawkins families meet for 82nd reunion
ALLIANCE − The Kirksey, Young and Hawkins families celebrated their 82nd reunion July 9 at Silver Park after a two-year hiatus.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused the break.
Past president Henry J. Kirksey, who presided for 20 years, received a plaque for his "magnificent" service from current president Joyce H. Williams, according to news release.
Kirksey, the release said, "always went above and beyond the call of duty," and he also received cards, gifts and a Key to the City from Mayor Alan Andreani.
His wife, Alice, also was praised for her years of support.
The reunion motto is "The family that prays together stays together," and nearly 300 relatives from eight states came to Silver Park in Alliance for fun and fellowship.
Williams and Bruce Hawkins gave the blessings and prayers before dinner. There was music. High school and college graduates received cards and gifts.
Several couples married for 50 years or more were acknowledged. The families also mourned the loss of 43 relatives since 2020.
The first reunion was held in 1940; most of them have been at Silver Park.
This year's committee included: Williams, Hawkins, Cindy King, Joan Kirksey, Lelia M. Hairston, Laura K. Coleman, Lois K. Holland, Lynn West, Portia H. Johnson, Tamboura Church and Staci Young. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/alliance/2022/08/25/kirksey-young-hawkins-families-reunite-for-82nd-time-in-alliance/65414291007/ | 2022-08-25T10:16:26 | 1 | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/alliance/2022/08/25/kirksey-young-hawkins-families-reunite-for-82nd-time-in-alliance/65414291007/ |
North Canton Chamber of Commerce to organize New Berlin Festival in October
NORTH CANTON − The Chamber of Commerce wants to bring the spirit of Oktoberfest to the city to acknowledge the community's German roots.
The Chamber will host the New Berlin Festival from noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 8. It will be on North Main Street around Charlotte and Witwer streets. The festival will not charge a fee for admission.
"We’re very excited to offer something a little different,” said Keri Burick, president of the North Canton Chamber of Commerce. "This is the trial run."
Burick said the plans for the festival are still coming together. The chamber is still deciding how it will obtain beer for the event. But she said the city administration supports the new festival and will grant the necessary permits to close part of North Main Street for the event.
"We realize this is our first year and we're not going to do a ton of things that we don't have a handle on yet," Burick said. "We want this to be a very fun and engaging festival. But nothing too over the top. We definitely want vendors and food trucks that are geared toward German traditions as far as food and what people are selling.”
North Canton has German roots
North Canton was originally founded by German immigrants as unincorporated New Berlin in 1831 and kept the name until 1918, when the United States fought against Germany in World War I. The name was changed following a petition drive, according to the North Canton Heritage Society.
At the time, the community had 926 residents.
The chamber also hosted the Main Street Festival in North Canton earlier this month. And it organizes Winter Festival each December.
More:North Canton celebrates Fourth of July with parade, live music and fireworks
The chamber says it will have beer, cocktails, sausages, food trucks, traditional German food, vendors and traditional German games. Possibly corn hole, axe throwing, a steinholding contest, a keg toss and beer relay. It has booked the Chardon Polka Band to play music at the festival. Partner restaurants like The Howlin Bird are expected to serve some traditional German dishes.
Burick said no other Stark County community hosts a German festival. The closest she's aware of is Wooster. She said she's been in discussion with the North Canton Heritage Society about what New Berlin was like when it was founded. She's sought research on what flag New Berlin may have had and the traditions of the town locals.
"We had a lot of hard-working Germans settle in New Berlin and help create this wonderful town and boosted the economy and made it a bustling place for a stop for goods coming through from Akron down to Tusc and other southern cities," said Burick. "I think there's an opportunity to really kind of look at our heritage and celebrate the people who really created this town and also celebrate Oktoberfest and celebrate the great beers this community has."
Concept in the making
Burick said Nick Pappas, a member of the chamber's board and chairman of the New Berlin Festival Committee, had been discussing the idea of having a German festival in North Canton for years. But the concept picked up momentum last year.
She said that the Chamber of Commerce is now looking for sponsors and offering $500 sponsorship packages that will include a reserved table under a tent.
Visit Canton provided a tourism grant of $2,900 last month to help cover the costs of marketing the event to residents outside Stark County, said Burick. The agency, in partnership with ArtsInStark, has awarded $247,787 in cultural tourism grants. Grants were handed out to boost visitation and economic impact for the region through arts and cultural events and marketing initiatives. Applicants could apply for up to $20,000.
Reach Robert at robert.wang@cantonrep.com. Twitter: @rwangREP. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/north-canton/2022/08/25/spirit-of-oktoberfest-coming-to-north-canton-with-new-festival/65412433007/ | 2022-08-25T10:16:32 | 1 | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/north-canton/2022/08/25/spirit-of-oktoberfest-coming-to-north-canton-with-new-festival/65412433007/ |
While ground was broken this week in Springfield for a new center devoted to advancing new air mobility technologies, getting to that point took years of work by area advocates.
Ground was broken Tuesday for the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence at the Springfield-Beckley Municipal airport.
But the center initially was denied a crucial Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot Program (DCIP) grant.
Mike McDormand, president and chief executive of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, recalled watching the several years-long process.
He called it “unbelievable” that the center is happening.
“We like to think the sky’s the limit, right?” McDormand said the day after the groundbreaking. “There are already advanced air mobility prospects looking to locate manufacturing facilities that are hundreds of thousands of square feet, and more a thousand jobs.”
“These are the jobs of the future,” he added.
The 30,000 square-foot, two-story building will house university, business and government researchers. The investment will include 25,000 square feet of hanger space and —advocates hope — draw more companies to the airport.
The center is meant to anchor research of new flying vehicles, known as eVTOLs, or electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. The vehicles are said to be able to take off and land as helicopters and fly as airplanes, making quick intra-city transportation possible.
The Air Force is also studying the crafts’ utility in the realms of search and rescue and medical evacuation.
The needed federal grant was initially a close call. The center was originally denied federal funding, according to U.S. Rep. Mike Turner’s office.
Criteria for Department of Defense funding for the center needed to be expanded, said Rachel Walker, a spokeswoman for the House Select Committee on Intelligence and Turner, who sits on that committee as ranking member.
Funding was first denied for two reasons: competitiveness with other sites and a population cap.
Springfield’s approximate population was 59,000 residents in fiscal year 2019, about the same as today. The desired grant went only to rural communities with no more than 50,000 residents.
Turner and the House Armed Services Committee (on which he also sits) used the national defense budget to tweak criteria, raising “enhancing military value” to a top priority — and the committee expanded the population cap to 100,000 residents.
“That was a critical piece to getting the grant dollars,” McDormand said.
The moves meant $6 million for the center.
“This is one of the ways we can bring capital and additional resources to the community that can create jobs,” Turner said in an interview.
“In this instance, our community was not eligible for the dollars in this grant program, initially” he added. “We changed the criteria, we applied and we were successful.”
Work took cooperation across the aisle and across legislative chambers. In 2021, Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, announced that the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation awarded $6 million to the project. At the time, Brown wrote Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urging him to consider Springfield’s application.
“The Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport and Southwest Ohio are on the forefront of AAM (Advanced Air Mobility) and flying cars, and the DCIP funding will continue to push Ohio’s innovations in this space while growing the economy in Southwest Ohio,” Brown told Austin in a September 2021 letter.
When communities are dealing with federal agencies, they need champions in Congress who can help, McDormand said.
The total value for the center will be more than $9 million, supporters say. JobsOhio plans to support the project through its Ohio Site Inventory Program (OSIP), a Dayton Development Coalition executive said. A multi-million dollar OSIP grant would cover site preparation, utility extensions, an access drive and parking.
That grant is awaiting final approval, the coalition has said.
Construction on the center is expected to be complete next June.
About the Author | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/funding-for-new-advanced-air-mobility-center-almost-didnt-happen/DOXS35NLXFD6TBUGIEHRKJCJ64/ | 2022-08-25T10:17:31 | 1 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/funding-for-new-advanced-air-mobility-center-almost-didnt-happen/DOXS35NLXFD6TBUGIEHRKJCJ64/ |
Attorneys for several organizations filed a lawsuit Thursday against the Environmental Protection Agency seeking to close a regulatory loophole that left about half of the coal ash waste in the U.S. exempt from federal health protections.
The nonprofit environmental law organization Earthjustice reviewed Environmental Protection Agency archives and found the EPA exempted at least half a billion tons of coal ash in nearly 300 landfills across 38 states from standards intended to protect people from cancer-causing chemicals.
Many of those landfills are disproportionately located in low-income communities and communities of color, including Michigan City, according to Earthjustice. Two unregulated coal ash landfills also remain at NIPSCO's Bailly Generating Station in Burns Harbor.
Attorney Mychal Ozaeta, of Earthjustice, said his organization's findings were outrageous.
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"The coal power industry is poisoning drinking water sources and the air we breath while causing global warming," Ozaeta said.
Coal ash, also known as coal combustion residuals, is the material left behind after coal is burned to produce energy.
It's one of the largest toxic waste streams in the U.S. and contains heavy metals and metal compounds such as arsenic, boron, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, lithium, mercury, molybdenum, radium, selenium and thallium.
Energy companies store coal ash that cannot be reused in retention ponds, some of which are unlined. Over time, contaminants from coal ash can leak out of landfills into groundwater, blow into the air as dust and release to surface waters and land due to structural failures.
The toxic chemicals in coal ash can cause cancer and result in reproductive, neurological, respiratory and developmental conditions, according to the lawsuit.
EPA has noted risks associated with exposure to coal ash include "cancer in the skin, liver, bladder and lungs," neurological and psychiatric effects, cardiovascular effects, damage to blood vessels and anemia, Earthjustice said.
EPA first adopted rules in 2015 regarding toxic ash generated when burning coal. However, the Cole Combustion Residuals Rule exempted landfills that stopped accepting coal ash before Oct. 19, 2015, and didn't cover landfills at power plants that already had stopped producing power.
"EPA's blanket exemption of inactive CCR landfills allows hundreds of dangerous and leaking toxic dumps to escape critical safeguards, including monitoring, inspection, closure, cleanup and reporting requirements," the lawsuit states. "Data reveal that toxic heavy metals leaking from inactive CCR landfills located throughout the U.S. pose an unabated and significant threat to human health and the environment."
The suit was filed in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., on behalf of the Hoosier Environmental Council, the Indiana NAACP and LaPorte County branch of the NAACP, the Sierra Club, the Environmental Integrity Project and other organizations.
A study by Earthjustice and Environmental Integrity Project found groundwater contamination exceeding federal health standards at 66% of regulated coal ash landfills.
Regulated landfills are newer and more likely to be lined than older landfills exempted from EPA regulations, the organization said.
"Thus, the exempted inactive CCR landfills are likely to be releasing even higher levels of toxic contaminants," Earthjustice said.
At NIPSCO's Michigan City Generating Station, 2 million tons of fill containing coal ash are currently exempted from regulation, the lawsuit says.
"The coal ash fill sits precariously behind corroding steel pilings on the shore of Lake Michigan," Earthjustice attorneys wrote. "The toxic fill is leaking arsenic and other hazardous chemicals into the lake as well as into an adjacent creek that is commonly used for fishing and boating."
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act requires EPA to review certain regulations at least every three years, but the agency has not revisited the regulation exempting inactive coal ash landfills since it was adopted.
The plaintiffs are asking a judge to find EPA violated the law by failing to review the CCR Rule and order the agency to take action.
Members of the plaintiff organizations live, work, travel or recreate near inactive coal ash disposal facilities.
They use the rivers, lakes, landscapes, aquifers and watersheds, and the recreational, health, economic and aesthetic benefits they enjoy as a result of the use of such places has been and will continue to be harmed by EPA's failure to regulate inactive coal ash landfills, the lawsuit states.
Barbara Bolling-Williams, president of the Indiana State Conference of the NAACP, said utilities have been allowed to pollute communities for decades with little oversight or regulation.
"When the government fails to do its job to hold this industry responsible for the harm that is caused, once again, black and brown communities are left holding the proverbial ash bag with a ticking bomb inside," she said.
Sierra Club attorney Bridget Lee said EPA "must act now to close this dangerous loophole."
"The continued storage of toxic coal ash in unlined landfills without groundwater monitoring flies in the face of EPA's own science and risk assessments and threatens fenceline communities across the country," Lee said.
Indra Frank, environmental health and water policy director for the Hoosier Environmental Council, said NIPSCO's Michigan City disposal site is a threat to Lake Michigan.
"Indiana's many inactive coal ash landfills need to meet the same standards as the active ones in order to protect the state's water resources," she said.
Abel Russ, senior attorney at the Environmental Integrity Project, said comprehensive rules that lead to sitewide correction action are needed.
"The goal here — EPA's goal and our goal — is to restore groundwater quality, but you can't really do that with rules that only apply to some of the coal ash dumps at each site," Russ said. | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/michigan-city/groups-sue-epa-over-unregulated-coal-ash-dumps/article_461f28e1-4af7-5aa4-aaf3-7164c0ee7e0b.html | 2022-08-25T10:23:46 | 1 | https://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/michigan-city/groups-sue-epa-over-unregulated-coal-ash-dumps/article_461f28e1-4af7-5aa4-aaf3-7164c0ee7e0b.html |
The St. Augustine Prep football team advanced to the state Non-Public A semifinals and finished 9-2 last season but graduated some strong talent, including 10 players who are now at NCAA Division I programs.
That senior class will be hard to replace, Hermits coach Pete Lancetta said.
St. Augustine will be young and inexperienced in some positions and have some sophomores, juniors and even seniors starting for the first time, but “we have a nice nucleus coming back, as well, so it’s not all that doom and gloom, that’s for sure,” the sixth-year Hermits coach added.
“It was a heck of a year,” Lancetta said. “Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to the big one. But we came darn close, and I was proud of the kids. It will be tough to replace, but you have to. Guys have to step up.
“There is a lot of competition, so that’s a good thing.”
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One player who graduated was standout quarterback Trey McLeer, now at St. Francis University. McLeer was one of the many key contributors on a team that dominated most of its opponents in 2021. Either junior Ryan Gambill (6-foot-3, 190 pounds) or sophomore Rori Friel (6-foot-3, 175 pounds) will earn that starting QB job, Lancetta said.
Senior Terrin Walker is expected to be a factor on defense. The 6-foot-3, 210-pound defensive end and halfback played some defense last season but was behind Denis Juquez (now at Syracuse and Brady Small (West Point).
Walker, a three-year starter, may also play snaps at wide receiver. Rob Adamson, also a senior and a three-year starter, will be a threat on the defensive line and is a great blocker on offense, so he will get some time at tight end, Lancetta said.
“You look to the guys that have the most experience,” Lancetta said.
Christian Collot, a senior inside linebacker and returning starter, is another key player. The Hermits were thin at linebacker in 2021, so Collot was a leader. This year, they have more numbers at linebacker, but the group is young, including sophomores Matt Bonczek and Julian Giambuzzi. Lancetta will lean heavily on Collot.
Junior Vince Isom, who played guard mostly last season, will take on a defensive role as well as maintain his guard duties. Asher Jenkins, a senior and a three-year starter, is also a two-way lineman. The Hermits lost three defensive backs, but senior Na’Cire Christmas returns to lead that group, and Tristan McLeer will also play at safety.
“It is a nice bunch,” said Lancetta, who added the defense may be the strength of the team. “We have a good incoming freshman class (30 to 45 freshmen). So, that is exciting, as well. Everyone is working hard. I think the defensive line will be the strong point of our team.”
One weakness will be the lack of offensive line depth, which “is tough because last year we had pretty good depth there,” Lancetta said. “We don’t have that this year, so hopefully we stay healthy and other guys develop and give us a little time if they have to.
“Some guys will have to learn multiple positions,” Lancetta added.
“We are going to do what we do, mix it, and we may throw a little more than we did in the past,” Lancetta said.
Franklin Simms (Wagner) and Kayne Udoh (West Point), two very good running backs, both graduated. But the Hermits will still have a solid running attack by committee. McLeer is expected to start, and seniors Nadir Bethune and Noah Grdinich will also play there.
Julian Turney, a sophomore transfer, will also have snaps at running back.
“We are excited,” Lancetta said. “They are working hard. I told them we need to improve every day, and they are rising to the occasion.” | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/highschool/st-augustine-aims-to-continue-its-success-from-last-fall/article_55e45008-0d08-11ed-bd64-3370c2a336ff.html | 2022-08-25T10:32:35 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/highschool/st-augustine-aims-to-continue-its-success-from-last-fall/article_55e45008-0d08-11ed-bd64-3370c2a336ff.html |
'I've had a good life': Audrey Rigg looks forward to 100th birthday
PETOSKEY — As Petoskey’s Audrey Rigg approaches her 100th birthday on Sept. 2, she is looking back on a happy life full of family, fulfillment and fashion.
Audrey, whose maiden name is Fox, was born in 1922 in Petoskey in a two-story duplex on Mitchell Street where the Petoskey District Library now sits. Her parents later bought a house on Franklin Street where she lived as an only child until she graduated from Petoskey High School in 1940.
“My two old maid aunts came from Laura, Ohio, took a train up here to deliver me,” Audrey said. “So maybe that's what's wrong with me.”
Even as she approaches 100, Audrey’s humor and memory have not diminished. She recalls her senior year of high school when she won the “Fashion Plate Girl” yearbook award and came close to winning “Best Looking” as well.
“I was voted both and Helen LaFleur was too," she said. "So they had to take another vote and I came in as the Fashion Plate Girl.”
Fashion would remain an important part of Audrey’s life. Throughout high school she worked as a store clerk in the local JCPenney for 35 cents per hour and used each paycheck to buy more clothes.
“I just want to look nice for other people,” Audrey said. “It really gives you a good feeling. I always was dressed to go to work and that’s when you wore nylon hose.”
“She always dressed to the nines, as they say,” said Audrey’s son Tom Rigg. “She was very well dressed all the time.”
After graduating high school, Audrey married Richard Rigg in October 1940. They met at a restaurant called The Arcadia where the Circus Shop is now.
More:Golden centennial: Petoskey's Betty Munson celebrates 100th birthday
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At the time, Richard, who went by Dick, was co-owner of a mattress company but soon went to California for military training during World War II. He and Audrey had two sons, Eddie and John, who were cared for by their grandparents while Audrey and a friend drove to San Francisco to be with their husbands.
“We chose San Francisco because of Fisherman's Wharf, so we’d go down there for seafood,” Audrey said.
Audrey took another retail job and stayed in a cabin with another couple for more than three months until Dick’s training finished and he decided the military wasn’t for him. They made their way to Battle Creek, Michigan and from there, took a train to Petoskey.
After returning, Dick worked in auto garages and in 1945, the couple had their third son, Tom.
Audrey was a stay-at-home mom until her boys were older and then in the 1960s, the couple bought The Dollhouse, a children’s store that occupied part of the building where Meyer Ace Hardware is.
They owned the store for three years until 1966 when the couple made their way to Naples, Florida with their youngest son, James, who was 12 years old at the time.
Audrey stayed in Naples for 40 years where she raised her youngest son, played golf, bridge and took a job as a salesperson at Gattles selling home goods, where she worked for 19 years. She then worked for Bob Baker Shoes, and since both stores had locations in Northern Michigan, the family would spend the summers in Petoskey while Audrey worked in the Michigan stores.
In 2000, after 60 years of marriage, Dick passed away from cancer. Audrey stayed in Naples until 2007 when she moved back to Petoskey, now retired, and continued to enjoy her hobbies: golf, bridge and fashion.
Audrey credits her love of bridge for her good memory in her old age. She competed in tournaments before her eyes made it difficult to see the cards. Games were a big part of the Rigg’s household throughout the years and that love of games fostered more than a few competitive spirits.
“My dad, he'd like to tease people,” Tom said. “So I was down in Florida and playing gin rummy, which is a two-person (game). So I would be like the captain so one hand I’d play with mom and then one hand with dad and we’d just alternate and I creamed him. Finally, my dad says to my mother, ‘I told you we should have hit him over the head and sold the milk.’”
Despite working full time, Audrey always made time to do the things she enjoyed.
“Tuesday was my day for ladies’ day,” she said. “I’d get to the golf course at eight in the morning and play 18 holes, go in and have a cold beer and then sit and play bridge until maybe five to six at night. See, those were fun days when I was younger.”
Throughout their busy lives, Audrey and Dick made time to travel, visiting Hong Kong, England, Copenhagen, Germany and Paris. Now, Audrey looks back on those experiences and is grateful she spent her life doing what she enjoyed, had the opportunity to know her grandchildren and in January, will be a great-great grandmother.
“I think I’m a miracle,” Audrey said. “I really do. I've had a good life. When I was married, we didn't want for a roof over our heads, we didn't want for food. We weren't rich but we were all right.” | https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/audrey-rigg-looks-back-on-her-life-as-she-nears-her-100th-birthday/65415562007/ | 2022-08-25T10:39:35 | 0 | https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/audrey-rigg-looks-back-on-her-life-as-she-nears-her-100th-birthday/65415562007/ |
ODESSA, Texas — A Boil Water Notice has been issued to residents in the upper plane area of Odessa by the TCEQ due to insufficient water pressure.
Customers north of Yukon Road and Parks Bell Ranch Road will be affected by this Boil Water Notice. Residents will have to boil their water before using it for any function. This includes washing hands, cooking, brushing teeth, and drinking. Children, seniors and people with weaker immune systems are typically more vulnerable to the harmful bacteria found in the water that is not properly boiled.
Public water system officials will notify the customers once the Boil Water Notice is lifted. This notice will last at least 24 hours typically before the water is deemed safe again.
If people have any questions, they can contact the City of Odessa at 432-335-3244. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/boil-water-notice-issued-to-resident-in-the-upper-plane-area-of-odessa/513-740b77a6-2018-42bc-9cbd-d505d2ae950b | 2022-08-25T10:45:25 | 1 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/boil-water-notice-issued-to-resident-in-the-upper-plane-area-of-odessa/513-740b77a6-2018-42bc-9cbd-d505d2ae950b |
MIDLAND, Texas — The eastbound lanes of I-20 have been closed down between Loop 250 and Midkiff Road due to a tractor-trailer fire.
According to the City of Midland, the Midland Fire Department is working on cleaning up the fire. Drivers are encouraged to look for alternate routes and to avoid the area.
We will continue to update this story as we receive more information. | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/eastbound-lanes-of-i-20-closed-between-loop-250-and-midkiff-rd-due-to-tractor-trailer-fire/513-4ada96c8-6b18-4b85-8247-65d918e36ed9 | 2022-08-25T10:45:31 | 1 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/eastbound-lanes-of-i-20-closed-between-loop-250-and-midkiff-rd-due-to-tractor-trailer-fire/513-4ada96c8-6b18-4b85-8247-65d918e36ed9 |
WATERLOO — The overall number of students participating in Waterloo Community Schools’ advanced programs is growing.
That can be seen in the number of students enrolled in International Baccalaureate, a two-year college preparation program recognized worldwide that is one of the district’s advanced learning options.
For the 2022-23 school year, there are 27 students enrolled in the full diploma program and 82 students taking individual IB courses to earn a certificate, Sherice Ortman, coordinator of secondary curriculum and advanced programs, told the Board of Education this week.
This number is up overall. Last school year, there were 29 full diploma students and 40 certificate students. Before COVID-19 in 2019-20, there were 45 diploma students and 50 certificate students.
Last school year, 81% of the IB tests taken resulted in a score of four or higher – the minimum score to receive college credits. Last year, the number was 76%.
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The valedictorians in both high schools were part of the IB program. The two Black female students are now attending Harvard and Stanford universities.
Tests for Advanced Placement courses are also up – in 2020-21, 264 tests were taken. Last school year there were 290 exams given.
The overall scores from these tests increased, as well. On a five-point scale, 36% of last year’s scores were threes, fours or fives – the scores required to receive credit. That’s up from 29% the previous year.
AP students received $120,000 worth of transfer credits. This year there are 239 students enrolled in AP classes.
Overall, district students received $1.5 million in academic transfer credits and scholarships during the 2021-22 school year. Waterloo Schools provides more than 90 college credit options.
Students can also take concurrent classes. These are courses high school students can enroll in that will earn college credits through the Waterloo Career Center or at liberal arts classes in their schools.
The career center accounts for 40% of the concurrent classes. There were 482 students from public and private schools in the Waterloo area – 88% of students came from the public schools. There are 440 students seated for this school year.
Through career center courses, students earned $300,000 in credits. There are 43 concurrent classes provided.
Classes take place at East and West high schools, as well. These courses include composition 1 and 2, fundamentals of oral communication, history classes and statistics. There were 86 students enrolled at East and 181 enrolled at West. Based on Hawkeye Community College tuition rates, these students saved $54,000 and $114,000, respectively.
In concurrent classes, students need to earn C’s or higher for credits to transfer to Iowa’s three state schools. Failing or withdrawing from a class can affect financial aid because the score is a permanent transcript grade.
As for honors diplomas, Ortman said the number of them is going up due to not only juniors and seniors taking advanced classes, but middle school, freshman and sophomore students as well. She said the bulk of students are 11th and 12th graders.
Younger students were also accounted for in the presentation to the school board. Ortman said this year there are 773 gifted and talented students – up from 669 last year. These students are identified at the end of third grade. Of these students, 67 kids have a learning disability.
She said there are also “hundreds, if not thousands” of additional kids taking advanced courses in certain subjects.
“It doesn’t matter what you can do. It doesn’t matter what you’re capable of. It matters what you do,” board member Janelle Ewing said. “We have a lot of talented students in this district and these opportunities are here for you to do and get ready for.” | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/education/number-of-waterloo-schools-students-in-advanced-programs-rebounding/article_59519404-7740-5f09-8ff3-aef964285e9d.html | 2022-08-25T10:51:48 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/education/number-of-waterloo-schools-students-in-advanced-programs-rebounding/article_59519404-7740-5f09-8ff3-aef964285e9d.html |
WAVERLY — The city’s elected officials preferred a simpler aesthetic look for the replacement Bremer Avenue bridge during discussions this week on possible enhancements.
The Iowa Department of Transportation has deemed the current bridge, which crosses the Cedar River downtown, near the end of its useful life. The agency says it is most cost effective to replace rather than repair the bridge.
Adding plinths – foundational pieces for a flat surface or artistic creation – to four new overlook areas originally was considered a possibility, according to Councilor Rodney Drenkow.
He led the discussion during a City Council meeting Monday on adding improvements beyond what’s considered “integral.” Drenkow also threw out the idea of adding “bridge entrance markers.”
“You know the beauty is the river, so the more stuff that we add to this, the more we take away,” said Councilor Matthew Schneider. “I think the cleaner, the simpler, the better.”
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The plinths could support a canopy structure, an art project, or other vertical structures.
“I think you’d have to have people going by on a regular basis to pick up the garbage that gets left on them – you know, people setting something down and walking away,” Schneider said.
Councilor Brian Birgen said he’d be more willing to go with the pedestals “if we had a good vision” for what they could support. But without that plan, there was nothing providing “inspiration” for including them.
“I wouldn’t put them in there because you’re gonna have to shovel around it,” said Councilor Anne Rathe.
Although there was no green light given on the pedestals, the council did make some other decisions on beautification.
They reached consensus on adding a thin veneer brick siding to separate the pedestrian traffic from the vehicular traffic.
Additionally, the overlooks, which the current bridge lacks, will be an ellipse shape rather than the original trapezoid included in the rendering.
The rounded edge, versus the pointed corner, could possibly be safer because, as one councilor noted, people may have the tendency to pose near them, similar to how the main characters did in a famous scene of the movie “Titanic.”
The rounded area may be more practical for snow removal and in case other utility equipment needs to get in there.
The council also picked a “flow” railing design, one created through a contrast of dark and light rods. One consideration was a completely transparent acrylic panel.
“It matches the signage that we’re putting in all over town with the parks and sort of the curvy design that’s on the new park signs,” said Rathe.
For Birgen, the “flow” design reminded him of the “Shades of Rhythm” Amphitheater in Kohlmann Park.
Drenkow said the costs for the additional beautification would be covered by the DOT. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/waverly-goes-with-simple-aestetic-look-not-over-the-top-for-new-bremer-avenue-bridge/article_faaa005a-3ed4-5b19-b1bf-f9a714e114d6.html | 2022-08-25T10:51:54 | 0 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/waverly-goes-with-simple-aestetic-look-not-over-the-top-for-new-bremer-avenue-bridge/article_faaa005a-3ed4-5b19-b1bf-f9a714e114d6.html |
TEXAS, USA — David Segovia lay on the floor of his Texas prison cell and wondered if this was how he was going to die.
The state was experiencing its hottest July in recorded history, and he, like most Texas prisoners, was locked inside a concrete and steel building without air conditioning. It had been months since he last felt cool air on his skin. A heat rash snaked up his arms.
Living on the highest tier of a cellblock in East Texas’ Ferguson Unit, he couldn’t lie in his metal bed — it was hot to the touch. Instead, he wet the floor or his sheets with the hot water that came out of his sink and spread out on the concrete. He still couldn’t sleep.
“In my mind, I’m saying, ‘Is this the way I’m going to have to live? … I don’t think I’m going to make it,’” Segovia recalled in the prison’s visitation room last week, the first time in months he’d been in air conditioning. “I’m already 40 years old. I’m not a youngster anymore, and I just don’t want to die back here.”
Every summer, Texas prisoners and officers live and work in temperatures that regularly soar well into triple digits. More than two-thirds of the state’s 100 prisons don’t have air conditioning in most living areas, putting tens of thousands of men and women under the state’s care in increasingly dangerous conditions. Climate change is expected to bring even hotter summers.
The heat has killed prisoners and cost millions of taxpayer dollars in wrongful death and civil rights lawsuits, with a recent fatal heat stroke reported in 2018. In 2011 — a blisteringly hot summer that the state climatologist has compared to the current one — at least 10 Texas prisoners died of heat stroke, according to court reports. The death count is likely higher since scientists have found extreme heat is often overlooked as a cause of death.
After a flood of lawsuits throughout the last decade, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has made some changes to lessen the suffering from its stifling temperatures. Most notably, it settled a yearslong court battle by agreeing to cool a geriatric prison, the Wallace Pack Unit southeast of College Station. The new air conditioning cost the state about $4 million. The legal fight over installing it cost more than $7 million.
The agency also enacted new policies under court orders to try to help those in uncooled prisons. Officials moved those deemed more likely to become ill or die from the heat into air-conditioned beds. That includes elderly prisoners, those with diagnosed medical conditions like heart disease or diabetes, and those on medication that affects their body’s ability to regulate temperature.
And they updated old heat policies, requiring staff to regularly provide ice water and cups to prisoners, take them to cool off in air-conditioned areas of the prison when requested, allow for extra-cold showers when possible and provide personal fans.
The agency has said the policies are working, reporting 11 prisoner heat illnesses and 16 for staff last year and only 12 heat-related illnesses for prisoners and 21 for staff this year through last week.
But prisoners and their supporters regularly say throughout the system that the policies aren’t consistently followed, and they believe most illnesses aren’t recorded. It strikes them that more heat-related illnesses are reported among staff than inmates since prison workers get to go home each day.
“There’s glaring violations of policy,” said Amite Dominick, president of Texas Prisons Community Advocates. “We’ve got ridiculous levels of heat, and no one’s doing anything. They’re just sweeping it under the rug.”
One example is Robert Robinson, who a medical examiner ruled died of environmental hyperthermia, or heat stroke, in 2018 at the Michael Unit near Palestine. The agency has denied the death was heat related, saying the 54-year-old’s cell was air-conditioned and he had other health complications. A TDCJ spokesperson said this week “the results remain unclear.”
(The next year, Seth Donnelly died at the Robertson Unit in Abilene. The 29-year-old put on padded suits to train search dogs, though it’s unclear how much of an effect heat had on his death. A medical examiner found he died from methamphetamine toxicity with hyperthermia.)
At a legislative budget hearing last month, TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier said there have been no heat deaths since 2012.
Beyond the courts, substantial change lies in the hands of the Texas Legislature. Texas county jails are required to be cooled to at least 85 degrees, but state lawmakers have previously rejected proposals to air condition state prisons after seeing the expected price tag. TDCJ has estimated it would cost $1 billion to cool all of its prisons, a number lawmakers rely on despite the prison system having grossly overestimated the cost of cooling the Pack prison in court.
Next year, however, lawmakers are expecting to get an extra $27 billion to spend in the 2023-24 budget. Segovia and prison rights advocates hope that surplus will encourage the Legislature to open up their wallets and finally put air conditioning in all Texas prisons.
“We better do something quick,” Segovia said. “I’ve been hearing more and more every year it’s going to get worse and worse, and we’re already seeing it.”
During his first nine years in prison, serving a 40-year sentence for aggravated robbery, Segovia was in an air-conditioned cell at the Michael Unit, about 90 miles north of his new prison in Midway. When he learned he was being moved to Ferguson, a notoriously stifling prison, he thought at first other men were exaggerating. He’d worked in construction and warehouses in Texas — he knew heat.
When summer came around though, he said it was an entirely different story. His small cell at the top of the warehouse-sized building is made up of three solid concrete walls and a barred door that faces a wall of windows across the tier. In the afternoon, the sun beats down through the glass relentlessly.
“It’s a living hell,” he said. “There’s no air vents. There’s no circulation. It’s just like an oven in there.”
A July study by TPCA and the Texas A&M University Hazard Reduction and Recovery Center surveyed hundreds of prisoners between 2018 and 2020 and found many reported a barrage of illnesses, including heat cramps, rashes, migraines and repeated fainting or trouble breathing.
“I fainted four times in my cell and no reports were filed and I received no medical attention,” one prisoner at the Scott Unit in Brazoria County wrote to researchers.
They also reported a lack of access to relief required by TDCJ policies, like cups, ice water distribution and respite time in air conditioning or cold showers. At least four prisoners from four different prisons wrote that large coolers filled with ice water for groups of prisoners had maggots, roaches or rats inside them.
Segovia said he never gets access to cool-down showers. His row’s shower, he said, is barely dripping with room-temperature water, so he usually just washes himself in his cell’s sink. Staff also doesn’t take them to cool off in air-conditioned areas, he said.
“In order for them to go up there, you’ve got to be literally dying,” he said.
Asked about how the agency holds itself accountable to follow its heat policies, TDCJ spokesperson Amanda Hernandez cited prisoner grievances — a written complaint filed by prisoners to staff.
“When investigating a heat-related grievance, steps are taken to verify and ensure that all temperature mitigation measures in [policy], such as access to respite areas, cold showers, ice water, and fans are being followed,” she said.
The heat also affects the dwindling number of officers who supervise prisoners. Segovia said he went entire days without an officer bringing him the required ice water because he was on the highest and hottest tier. Sometimes, he didn’t even blame them.
But it still leads to protests. Segovia said men in his cellblock scream, bang on bars, set fires and flood their cells to get attention from officers. He said flooding gets especially bad when officers don’t pass out the cold water.
At the legislative hearing, Collier said he believed air conditioning would improve the state’s longstanding issue of recruiting and retaining officers.
Of about 133,000 beds for prisoners in state prisons, Collier said about 41,000 — less than a third — are in air-conditioned areas. This year, air conditioning is being installed to cover another nearly 1,000 beds at several units, he told lawmakers. And next year, about 5,800 more beds will be cooled at intake prisons, where people are often coming from already-cooled jails to start their prison sentence.
Hernandez said next year’s projects will cost an estimated $12 million, funded through the agency’s existing budget.
Last year, the Texas House passed a measure to incrementally install air conditioning in all prisons by 2029, capping total costs at $300 million. Lawmakers didn’t provide the money, however, and the Senate never took up the bill. But with rising temperatures and a big surplus in next year’s state budget, some lawmakers are hoping this is an investment the state will take on.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who heads the Senate, did not respond to questions about his support for prison air conditioning in the next legislative session, which begins in January. A spokesperson for Gov. Greg Abbott said he “looks forward to continuing working with the legislature to effectively allocate budget resources to help all Texans across the state.”
“We are talking about having this large amount of surplus dollars ... for one-time investments,” said state Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, at last month’s budget hearing. “I hope this is something we can look at.”
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.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/no-air-conditioning-texas-prisons/285-bb9ccd58-740f-4115-a74d-1cc78d91f519 | 2022-08-25T11:28:16 | 0 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/no-air-conditioning-texas-prisons/285-bb9ccd58-740f-4115-a74d-1cc78d91f519 |
A man shot in the chest in Philadelphia drove himself to a Wawa store and went inside before being rushed to a hospital late Wednesday night, police said.
Police officers found the 39-year-old victim bleeding inside the store on the corner of Frankford Avenue and Academy Road in the Torresdale neighborhood after someone called 911 around 11:30 p.m., Philadelphia Police Department Chief Inspector Scott Small said.
The officers rushed the victim to a hospital, where he was listed in critical condition after being shot multiple times in the chest, torso and both arms, Small said.
Detectives believe the man was shot somewhere on the road south of the Wawa store while inside his Range Rover SUV. The driver’s side door and window were struck at least seven times, with the bullet pattern indicating the gunman likely fired from close range, according to Small.
NBC10 cameras captured a bullet still wedged in the door of the car. Inside, there was a large amount of blood, Small said.
Police did not immediately have a description of the gunman.
There are additional resources for people or communities that have endured gun violence in Philadelphia. Further information can be found here. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/man-shot-in-chest-drives-walks-into-philadelphia-wawa-store/3344780/ | 2022-08-25T11:36:32 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/man-shot-in-chest-drives-walks-into-philadelphia-wawa-store/3344780/ |
A Pennsylvania school district has announced it's canceling its high school's football season after obtaining a video that allegedly showed hazing among team members.
The Middletown Area School District earlier this month had announced an investigation into what it called a “disturbing and upsetting" Aug. 11 cellphone video showing hazing. The head football coach resigned within days of the video surfacing and Lower Swatara Township police were contacted, officials said.
Superintendent Chelton Hunter said Wednesday in a letter to parents that additional video surfaced and indicated "this hazing was much more widespread, and involved many more students" than was previously known.
“In light of this, we have made the decision to cancel the 2022 football season," Hunter said, adding that he knew the decision would affect many students and families and “will be met with many different opinions and emotions."
Team members had been in the high school turf room used for heat acclimation practice sessions when cellphone video showed “a group of students restraining two of their teammates and using a muscle therapy gun and another piece of athletic equipment" to poke their buttock areas, the superintendent said Monday.
The players remained fully clothed and no penetration appeared to have occurred, he said, calling the video difficult to watch and the acts “completely unacceptable, offensive, and highly inappropriate."
“The kind of hazing that occurred in our facilities with this team is reprehensible. It simply cannot and will not be tolerated," Hunter said Wednesday. “We know we must work to address the culture of this team, educate our student body about hazing, and put programs in place to help us ensure that this kind of atmosphere is never allowed to exist in our school facilities."
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Hunter said the second video also was shared with law enforcement and the district was continuing its own investigation. He vowed discipline for any students who participated and for any staff members “found to have ignored this kind of hazing."
School officials would work to find other opportunities in the fall for cheerleaders and the marching band, and alternative plans would be made for homecoming, “which is typically scheduled around a football game," he said. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/pa-district-investigates-hazing-cancels-hs-football-season/3344340/ | 2022-08-25T11:36:38 | 1 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/pa-district-investigates-hazing-cancels-hs-football-season/3344340/ |
Driving in Delaware? Police and insurance companies want you to follow these 5 reminders
With the holiday driving season fast approaching and people fitting in those last-minute vacations, the Delaware State Police and insurance companies are ramping up efforts to remind drivers to take necessary precautions before taking to the roads.
“Not just in Delaware but throughout the country, we’re seeing a problem with speeding and distracting driving as well as problems with substance abuse, whether that’s prescription medication, illicit drugs or alcohol," said AAA Mid-Atlantic’s Ken Grant. "It’s a national problem.”
Grant, who manages public and government affairs for AAA in Delaware, also said many state roads and highways have seen significant rebounds post-pandemic. He especially noted congestion and speeding concerns in the I-95 construction zone, which recently started enacting fines in April.
Senior Cpl. Leonard DeMalto, a spokesman with Delaware State Police, echoed similar sentiments as Grant, saying many drivers are coming into the state, including visitors.
To get you ready for safe travel into or through Delaware, Grant and DeMalto shared some tips on how motorists can maintain their vehicles and drive responsibly.
Wear your safety belts
Always buckle up and make sure your passengers are wearing theirs too. The number of crashes with people ejected from their vehicles has increased nationally at a significant rate due to drivers not wearing seat belts, according to Grant.
The Delaware Office of Highway Safety and police take seat belt safety very seriously. If it's not worn properly, a driver can receive a $25 fine in addition to court costs up to $83.50.
FOR SUBSCRIBERS:No more warnings: Starting Monday, speeding in I-95 construction zone comes with a price
Slow down
The higher your speed, the less time you have to stop your vehicle if things wrong.
In order to maintain complete control of your vehicle, you must slow down, follow the speed limit and obey all traffic rules.
Plus, adjusting your speed follows Delaware law, which states that a driver is required to pay fines for speeding violations in the amount of $20 for a first offense and $25 for a second subsequent offense.
Don’t drive under the influence
A night out at the bar can be fun but always make sure you have a safe ride to and from your destination. If you decide to drink, eliminate drunk driving and use ride-share services such as Lyft or Uber. DUI and DWI penalties can consist of fines, jail time, or revocation of your license, according to state code.
“Do not drink and drive and do not do drugs and drive — these are just some of the basics," Grant said. "I think we would see a significant reduction in the number of crashes if this happens."
In 2021, Delaware DUI statistics reported 42 impaired driving fatalities, accounting for 30% of total fatalities.
Put down that cell phone
Keep your eyes on the road. That means no texting, no calls, and no checking your email while behind the wheel. If you have hands-free connectivity like Bluetooth in your car, it can be OK — but ideally, the best advice is to not use your cellphone at all.
A 2020 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that crashes involving distracting drivers killed 3,142 people.
Practice defensive driving
One key to driving safely is patience and defensive driving.
This means providing other vehicles ample room for switching lanes, especially for out-of-town drivers who are not familiar with the roadways in Delaware.
Have a tip or story ideas? Contact local reporter Cameron Goodnight at cgoodnight@delawareonline.com, or by calling or texting 302-324-2208. Follow him on Twitter at @CamGoodnight. | https://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/driving-in-delaware-steps-avoid-crashes-stop-distractions-dui-texting-while-driving/65414654007/ | 2022-08-25T11:41:47 | 0 | https://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/driving-in-delaware-steps-avoid-crashes-stop-distractions-dui-texting-while-driving/65414654007/ |
Squeezing in a trip to the Delaware beaches this weekend? What to know before your visit
It's the time of year when we all glance over at our calendars and exclaim, "What in the world happened to the summer?!"
There's still some good news, though: We've still got one more August weekend to make the most of beach season.
If you're headed to the Delaware beaches this weekend, you may want a refresher on what to know before you go. But don't worry: We've got you covered.
Delaware Online/The News Journal has been following the latest news at the Delaware beaches all summer, and we've rounded up a few things to know, ranging from the latest weather report to information about beach festivals and an update on travel trends.
For anyone looking to visit the Delaware beaches during the weekend of Aug. 26, check out this guide for the latest information.
LOOK LIKE A TOURIST?How to become a true Delawarean: 10 ways you can distinguish yourself from the beach tourists
BEACH GALLERY:Go to the beach this weekend? You weren't alone.
What's the beach forecast like this weekend?
So far the risk of rain still seems very slight this weekend, so there's a good chance that it could be a beautiful beach weekend to soak up the last of those summer days.
As always though, don't forget to check the weather before making your way onto the sand. The National Weather Service even has a tool that shows people what the UV index and water temperatures are expected to be at several beach locations: https://www.weather.gov/beach/phi.
Here's a breakdown so far of what the National Weather Service is predicting for the Rehoboth Beach area.
First, if you're looking to take a dip in the ocean, know that the water temperatures are getting warmer this month and should be in the mid-70s. (As many people point out on social media, warmer water temps also often bring out some more creatures like jellyfish!)
POP-UP STORMS:There goes my umbrella! Here's how to stay safe when unexpected storms pop up at the beach
On Friday, the forecast is mostly sunny with a high near 84 degrees. There was only a 20% chance of rain after 2 p.m. as of the forecast Wednesday.
The evening cools off a bit with a low temperature around 73 and partly cloudy.
COOL OFF:Don't melt in the heat wave. Indulge in one of these frozen treats to keep you cool.
The sun should then make a grand return and stick around for the rest of the weekend.
On Saturday, beachgoers will be pleased: the forecast is mostly sunny with a high near 83 degrees, and the evening only brings a few clouds and a low around 72.
Sunday should again be sunny with a high temperature around 81. The evening stays clear with the low hitting around 72.
Join the State Parks for a beach festival
On Saturday, people will be paddling their hearts out at Delaware Seashore State Park but − even though tickets are sold out for joining the group hitting the water in kayaks and canoes − the party continues throughout the day.
The "after party" is open to all park visitors, not just those who participate in the annual event known as Paddlefest. The beach festival will include live music from Unity Reggae Band, food vendors ranging from TacoReho to Dogfish Head to Smash Mouth Burgers, as well as many other exhibits and family activities.
To get your party on, head to the beach entrance at Tower Road near the observation tower any time between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. For more, visit www.paddlefestde.com/after-party.
Don't forget your rubber ducky for this festival in Milton
This weekend would definitely be worth a trip into Milton for the very small-town tradition of the Great Duck Race. (Yes, that means a race among rubber duckies down the river).
On Saturday, people can visit the Milton Memorial Park for this summer festival called Bargains on the Broadkill, including more than 35 vendors, food, and entertainment.
Throughout the day, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., people can purchase rubber ducks to participate in the signature event at 2 p.m. They can also contact the Milton Chamber of Commerce to buy a duck any time before Saturday.
Hey, it's probably worth a shot since you could even have a chance to win a cash prize of up to $500!
While you're in town, you might also want to check out the Broadkill River Canoe & Kayak Race at 10 a.m., which is hosted by Irish Eyes and starts and ends behind the restaurant.
PULL UP A CHAIR:A local's look at everything you need to know about the Delaware beaches
Rock out to Elton John and Billy Joel … sort of
Looking for an outdoor concert this weekend? Then it may be wise to check out the Freeman Arts Pavilion.
On Saturday at 7 p.m., the Selbyville venue will give the stage to "Face 2 Face," a tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel. A favorite returning show, the two musicians take turns trading the spotlight in this show that honors the best of the two icons.
For tickets, visit www.freemanarts.org.
Staying safe at the beach during COVID-19 spike
While the Delaware Division of Public Health reported that COVID-19 cases were declining compared to the report in July, the public health officials reminded people that the virus is still making its rounds through the community.
Community spread of COVID-19 was still high in Sussex and Kent counties, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data tracker, which was last updated Aug. 11.
Because of this, the state is encouraging people to wear masks in "indoor public settings" to help prevent further spread.
The average of tests coming back positive as of Aug. 19 was 17.5%, according to DPH data, which does not include at-home testing that is not reported to the state. The state reported that 177 people were hospitalized with COVID at that point.
Public health officials remind Delawareans that vaccines are now available for all persons starting at 6 months old, and vaccination is highly effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalizations and death.
MASK UP INSIDE:Delaware masking guidance changes as all three counties have 'high' spread of COVID
Beyond staying up to date on vaccines, outside activities and get-togethers are still safer than cramming into indoor spaces unmasked, according to DPH.
However, if you do have plans to be indoors or around a lot of people, DPH is suggesting people wear masks, distance as much as possible and keep up a good hand-washing regimen. And if anyone starts to feel sick or knows they were exposed to someone with COVID-19, they should get tested and stay away from others in the meantime.
Here is a roundup of advice to stay vigilant and avoid COVID this summer:
- Get vaccinated and boosted when you’re eligible. And don't wait until the fall when the updated vaccines are expected to be available. You will likely still be eligible for those boosters then.
- Stay home if sick and get tested if you have symptoms or were exposed to someone with COVID-19.
- Wear a mask indoors in public and if you are at higher risk for illness.
- Stay informed and turn to reliable sources for data, information, and treatment options.
Visit de.gov/coronavirus to schedule free vaccines and/or boosters.
VACCINE CLINIC:After legacy of LGBTQ support, this Rehoboth nonprofit's next move? Monkeypox vaccinations
MONKEYPOX VACCINES:More people can now get the monkeypox vaccine in Delaware. Are you eligible? What to know
What to expect at restaurants, beach businesses
After a record-breaking summer in 2021, business owners were bracing for what this season would bring. So far, business owners and chamber of commerce leaders say this summer has been busy: People are booking hotels, buying ice cream and eating out.
Early signs show that travel trends seem to be returning to expected pre-pandemic levels, and multiple hotel managers said more visitors are spontaneously planning trips to the beach this year, rather than planning a long way out.
And this month is looking to be one of the busiest Augusts in recent history, according to data from the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce.
With these crowds comes the same but ever-important advice: Have patience, folks.
Some restaurants, bars, and others in the service industry are still facing staffing shortages and limiting their hours to preserve the staff they do have. This is especially true as many businesses are making do with thinning staff as students head back to school or sports camps in August.
HOUSING:Work near the beach but can't afford to live here? How the county, others plan to fix that
It may be wise to make early reservations, follow your favorite spots on social media or call ahead to stay updated on any changes.
As far as outdoor dining, many beach towns found ways to continue that in the 2022 season, but that popularity may mean you have to wait longer for those coveted patio seats, too.
GROTTO PIZZA HOTEL:Big changes are coming to Rehoboth Boardwalk's iconic corner. How Grotto is playing a role
Emily Lytle covers Sussex County from the inland towns to the beaches. Got a story she should tell? Contact her at elytle@delmarvanow.com or 302-332-0370. Follow her on Twitter at @emily3lytle. | https://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/delaware-beaches-your-guide-for-rehoboth-beach-dewey-bethany/65414280007/ | 2022-08-25T11:41:53 | 0 | https://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/delaware-beaches-your-guide-for-rehoboth-beach-dewey-bethany/65414280007/ |
INDIANAPOLIS — Firefighters with the Indianapolis Fire Department saved a litter of puppies and multiple adult dogs Thursday morning at a home on the city's northeast side.
Firefighters responded to a report of a house fire in the 3900 block of Millersville Drive, near 38th Street and North Keystone Avenue, shortly before 5:30 a.m.
Heavy flames were showing from the house when firefighters arrived. A spokesperson with IFD said firefighters had trouble getting to the fire due to structure issues, so it took them 45 minutes to put the fire out.
Nobody was injured in the incident, and firefighters saved a litter of puppies and multiple adult dogs. IFD said the homeowner recently passed away, so the homeowner's family was taking care of the dogs that were inside and outside of the house.
Firefighters have not said how the fire started.
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- Kobe Bryant widow awarded $16M in trial over crash photos | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indianapolis-firefighters-ifd-save-rescue-puppies-dogs-millersville-drive/531-05509c01-68c7-4abd-acf2-65cdbe31ddb1 | 2022-08-25T11:42:36 | 0 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/indianapolis-firefighters-ifd-save-rescue-puppies-dogs-millersville-drive/531-05509c01-68c7-4abd-acf2-65cdbe31ddb1 |
INDIANAPOLIS — One person was killed and two others injured in a crash along I-465 on Indy's west side Thursday morning.
The crash occurred around 5:50 a.m. along the ramp onto I-465 southbound from West Washington Street. Around 6:15 a.m., Indiana State Police confirmed the crash involved a fatality when a small SUV rolled down an embankment.
The two other people in the SUV who were injured were taken to the hospital. Police did not share their conditions.
Police have not shared the identities of any of the people involved in the crash.
The entrance ramp from Washington Street to I-465 was closed early Thursday morning as police investigated the crash.
13News has a crew at the scene and will update this story as crash investigators determine and share what led to the crash.
This is a breaking story. Check back for updates. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/isp-1-dead-in-crash-along-i-465-on-west-side/531-f231968b-1225-4b16-a391-2d56155cc992 | 2022-08-25T11:42:42 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/isp-1-dead-in-crash-along-i-465-on-west-side/531-f231968b-1225-4b16-a391-2d56155cc992 |
What will happen to stone from Hale Memorial Church? It may see new life in East Peoria
PEORIA – As the historic Hale Memorial Church is taken down piece by piece, those mourning its demise may be comforted to learn there's a plan to resurrect features of the church in coming years.
Clay Moushon, an East Peoria native and retired military attorney, has plans for the stone covering the building’s façade.
“I’m looking to build a distillery out of it,” Moushon said. “I’ve been working on various different plans for the business, and my goal is to go from grain to glass. I own quite a bit of agricultural property here in East Peoria ... and it’s quite capable of producing all the grains in various forms that I need for a variety of different types of distilled beverages.”
Demolition of the church is now underway in earnest and will continue for at least a couple more weeks, said Greg Birkland, president and CEO of KDB Group, which owns the church.
“Last week they started taking apart some of the chimneys, which were actually crumbling on themselves. They said it was just like sand up there, the mortar was flaking in their hands and the brick was just bad,” Birkland said. “Jim (Kosner, owner of JIMAX Demolition) said this is the worst building he’s ever seen, and he’s done over 1,000 demolitions. He said this place probably should have been condemned 20, 25 years ago.”
More in history:Restored decorative plaster provides a peek of what's to come for Peoria's Madison Theater
Demolishing the historic church was painful for KDB Group, which was founded by medtech entrepreneur and community philanthropist Kim Blickenstaff. When the group bought the church in 2021, the plan was to restore it – but they found the structure was too far gone. Being able to repurpose the stone has provided some solace.
Moushon plans to build his distillery and tasting room on a semi-rural location in East Peoria.
“My style is more country, more in a wooded setting, rather than in a downtown setting,” Moushon said. “Very similar to a winery-like setting.”
Distilling is a totally new business for Moushon, who retired as a brigadier general in 2021 after a long career in the military.
“After spending 340 days in Afghanistan, and coming out of there in 2018, I spent two years in the Pentagon. After 32, 33 years of anything, it’s time to move on to something else,” he said. “I had always looked to do something like this when I retired. Then when the church came up, it just pushed everything to the forefront.”
Earlier this year:Peoria distillery gets cash infusion from British investors, with sights set on expanding
Moushon, his son and a pair of former military colleagues are joining forces in the effort to build the distillery. It will be 100% veteran-owned.
Though he wasn’t a member of the Hale Memorial Church while growing up in East Peoria, Moushon remembers visiting it as a child. He didn’t want to see the stone end up in the landfill. His goal is to re-create features of the church, because it won't be possible to completely rebuild it. Not all of the stone will survive the demolition intact.
“The goal is to rebuild portions of the church,” he said. “For example, if you approach the church from Main Street, you’ll see there is a large turret on the left, then you've got your main entrance. I would definitely be looking to rebuild not only the turret on the left, but to duplicate it on the right. So when you pull into the parking lot and you look at the building, you are going to know it used to be a church. I want to reproduce features of the building that clearly keep the style the same.”
Leslie Renken can be reached at (309) 370-5087 or lrenken@pjstar.com. Follow her on Facebook.com/leslie.renken. | https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/stone-from-hale-memorial-church-will-be-salvaged-used-in-east-peoria/65417772007/ | 2022-08-25T11:46:28 | 1 | https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/stone-from-hale-memorial-church-will-be-salvaged-used-in-east-peoria/65417772007/ |
THURSDAY: Scattered showers in the morning, then numerous showers and a few thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening. Like Wednesday, the rain and cloud cover keeps highs in the 70s and 80s. While not everyone will see rain, some spots could see some heavy rain that could lead to localized flooding. The best chance for heavy rain will be along and west of I-65, and south of I-20.
FRIDAY AND THE WEEKEND: While rain won’t be quite as widespread to round out the week, scattered showers and storms will remain in the forecast, and some spots could receive a heavy downpour or two. Things will be trending in a more normal pattern for this time of year though, so we should get a break from the near all-day rain we have seen the past couple of days. Highs trend up as we see a bit more sunshine. We’ll be back in the mid 80s Friday and upper 80s over the weekend.
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Thursday games this week will not only have to contend with a soggy field, but showers and perhaps a few storms could be ongoing at kickoff for some games across Central Alabama. Any one spot could be dealing with rain, but the best chances for rainy games will be south of I-20. Friday’s rain chances look much lower, but with as much rain as we’ve seen the past few days, I’d expect pretty sloppy field conditions for local games.
MONDAY/TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY: Deep tropical moisture isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and that means each day next week will have at least scattered showers and storms. Rain coverage won’t be completely widespread, but we’ll see more scattered summer downpours that can produce torrential downpours next week.
TROPICS: While there’s been a lot of social media buzz around tropical development, the current situation isn’t overly supportive of tropical development over the next 5 days. One wave moving into the Caribbean has a low chance of development over the next 5 days, and another wave moving off the African coast has a low chance of development as well. The wave moving off the African coast does show some potential for development over the course of the next 7 days, but as of now there are no immediate threats to the Gulf Coast.
Storm Team 7 Day
Be sure to follow the CBS 42 Storm Team:
Follow Us on Facebook: Chief Meteorologist Ashley Gann, Meteorologist Dave Nussbaum, Meteorologist Michael Haynes and Meteorologist Alex Puckett | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/another-gloomy-rainy-day-thursday/ | 2022-08-25T12:00:11 | 0 | https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/another-gloomy-rainy-day-thursday/ |
NORMAL — Eastern Illinois Foodbank will distribute food to local families facing food insecurity from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at Normal Community High School, 501 N. Parkside Road, Normal.
The distribution is sponsored by Nestle and is open to residents of McLean County. Those who plan to attend are asked to bring boxes or bags to transport food.
The distribution is part of the food bank's Foodmobile Program, a system of mobile food pantries designed to help bring nutritious food to rural or underserved areas.
Those who plan to attend should also pre-register at EIFclient.com; however, this does not guarantee a spot in line. Income guidelines will apply.
Photos: Efforts to combat food insecurity in Bloomington-Normal
Midwest Food Bank in Normal
Midwest Food Bank in Normal
Bread for Life Co-op
Bread for Life Co-op
Bread for Life Co-op
Bread for Life Co-op
Western Avenue Community Center
Western Avenue Community Center
West Bloomington Revitalization Project
Sunnyside Community Garden
Veggie Oasis
The Table
Veggie Oasis
Midwest Food Bank
Midwest Food Bank
Midwest Food Bank
Midwest Food Bank
Midwest Food Bank
Midwest Food Bank
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Sunnyside Community Garden and Food Forest
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs
This week, BloNo Beats checks in with Modern Drugs about their dynamic power pop performance at Connie Link Amphitheatre. The free show starts at 7 p.m. Thursday.
The McLean County Museum of History will reopen Monday following a temporary closure due to COVID-19 and staffing shortages, the museum announced Wednesday. | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/eastern-illinois-foodbank-plans-giveaway-in-normal-sept-24/article_ae0fb8e8-23d9-11ed-ae57-1bf6847692fa.html | 2022-08-25T12:03:37 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/eastern-illinois-foodbank-plans-giveaway-in-normal-sept-24/article_ae0fb8e8-23d9-11ed-ae57-1bf6847692fa.html |
100 years ago
Aug. 25, 1922: Believing that it voices the sentiment of the public, the local post of the American Legion has prepared a petition to be presented at the next meeting of the board of supervisors that the arches at the entrances to the courthouse be removed. The arches were erected shortly after the termination of the war, and have now become greatly worn by the weather.
75 years ago
Aug. 25, 1947: Regardless of how Bloomington ranks on most maps, there's one currently being published that scrawls Bloomington out in big letters. It's "Where Not to Go in Late Summer" — specially compiled for hayfever victims. Bloomington ranks near the top of places to avoid. In Illinois, only Peoria and Rock Island outrank Bloomington.
50 years ago
Aug. 25, 1972: The Twin Cities Journal, a weekly publication, has ceased publication at least temporarily after only five issues. Thomas Wetzel, 1104 N. McLean, editor and general manager of the newspaper, said publication ended with the last issue a week ago because of a split with publisher David Davidson of Chicago.
25 years ago
Aug. 25, 1997: Brian Loy, an eighth grader at Bloomington Kunior High School, expressed his feelings about Illinois' landscape in an essay and accompanying banner which will be hung in the J. Paul Getty Education Institute for the Arts in Los Angeles. Loy's banner, depicting a green stalking with yellow ears of corn in front of an orange setting sun, won the honor to represent Illinois at the Getty Center.
Compiled by Pantagraph staff | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/history/100-years-ago-legion-urges-removal-of-courthouse-arches/article_97cedee0-23ef-11ed-a4a8-fb89bf182163.html | 2022-08-25T12:03:43 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/history/100-years-ago-legion-urges-removal-of-courthouse-arches/article_97cedee0-23ef-11ed-a4a8-fb89bf182163.html |
'Gridlock': Artemis launch spectators, five Port Canaveral cruise ships to snarl traffic Monday
Take your typical Monday morning rush hour in north-central Brevard County, with school buses and workplace commuters backing up at busy intersections.
Add roughly 40,000 people boarding and disembarking five large cruise ships that are scheduled to leave Port Canaveral on Monday.
Then throw in a teeming throng of 100,000 to 500,000 spectators, most attempting to maneuver as close as possible to the beach and Indian River Lagoon to watch NASA's Artemis I historic moon launch soar skyward. It's the first planned uncrewed test flight in the Artemis program.
"Think safety first. Watch out for pedestrians, because a lot of people will be crossing the roads on foot. And think delays," Brevard County Communications Director Don Walker said.
“If you're going to be stuck in traffic for two or three hours, you're going to want to have water. You're going to want to have some food with you. So think about what you need to be prepared, in case you get stuck in a long line of traffic and you're not moving," Walker said.
"And it's August. It's going to be hot," he said.
Modified bus routes:Brevard Public Schools to modify bus routes to avoid Artemis launch traffic tie-ups
Massive SLS rocket:NASA is 'go' for launch of massive SLS rocket for Artemis I mission to moon
The Artemis I two-hour launch window opens at 8:33 a.m. Monday. The 322-foot Space Launch System with uncrewed Orion capsule is slated to make its debut launch from pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center and embark on a 42-day mission.
Walker said tourism and space-related officials estimate anywhere from 100,000 to 500,000 visitors may enter the county for the launch. Officials will activate the Brevard County Emergency Operations Center in Rockledge at 4 a.m. That's 2½ hours earlier than the typical two-hour activation preceding a rocket launch.
"We anticipate that you're going to start seeing an unusual number of cars on the road starting at 2 o'clock," Walker said of Monday morning.
“There's going to be gridlock in some areas. There's going to be full parking lots. There's going to be a lot of people out on the beach, especially from the central part to the northern part of the county," he said.
"So just be prepared for delays — and leave early. The earlier you can leave, the better," he said.
The heaviest traffic congestion is expected between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Monday, the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization reported. The agency is sharing key post-launch traffic tips for this "epic event":
- In Cocoa Beach, no left turns will be allowed from northbound State Road A1A to westbound State Road 520.
- In Titusville, all lanes on the A. Max Brewer Bridge will close immediately after launch for approximately one hour, allowing for heavy pedestrian traffic.
After the launch, police will direct Titusville motorists near the bridge to head north on Harrison Street or west on Garden Street. All spectators north of Harrison Street will be directed north to State Road 46.
Brevard Public Schools communications officials at the EOC will relay traffic updates to parents as the morning progresses, said Russell Bruhn, district spokesperson.
BPS will modify bus routes as necessary and issue districtwide notifications to parents via email, Bus Bulletin notifications and updates posted on the district’s Facebook page.
The Cocoa Beach Police Department will monitor traffic signals and traffic flow within the city.
"Residents should plan accordingly and stay off the roadways if possible to avoid being stuck in this congestion," Cocoa Beach City Hall officials posted on Facebook last week.
Port Canaveral is preparing for an influx of launch spectators to Jetty Park for Monday's scheduled launch — plus a Lockheed Martin private launch viewing party on the lawn of Exploration Tower that could draw 3,000 people.
The launch also is scheduled on a day when five large cruise ships will be in port — the Carnival Freedom and Liberty, the Disney Wish, and the Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas.
There will be a total of about 40,000 people boarding or getting off those ships that day, according to Peter Bergeron, the port's senior director of public safety and security.
Bergeron also expects heavy cargo-related truck traffic that day at the port.
"To do that, it's going to take an all-hands effort on the part of our cruise partners and the entire Canaveral Port Authority staff," Bergeron said.
Port Canaveral Chief Executive Officer John Murray said “we’ve worked with state and local law enforcement agencies, and are coordinating with our cruise partners to ensure our focus remains on safety and security for all port users. Bottom line — this launch day will be very busy with a much-higher volume of traffic on the roads in and around Port Canaveral. Best advice to anyone planning to be at Port Canaveral that day, please allow extra time.”
Jetty Park will open at 5 a.m. on launch day, and will close to newcomers when its capacity is reached. Parking is limited to electronic passholders. Parking passes must be purchased in advance. No cash or credit card transactions are allowed at the entrance booth. Walk-ins or bicyclists will be allowed to enter the park until capacity is reached.
Parking at the port's Cove area will be only for patrons and employees of Cove-area businesses. The lots will close when maximum vehicle capacity is reached.
Parking at cruise parking garages and surface lots will be only for cruise passengers.
The port's Freddie Patrick Boat Ramps and Rodney S. Ketcham Park Boat Ramps vehicle and trailer parking will be open and available to boaters on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. Boat ramp parking lots are exclusively for boater vehicles and trailers using boat ramps.
There will be no parking or launch viewing along State Road 401, George King Boulevard, other port roadways or on the State Road 528 median.
Rick Neale is the South Brevard Watchdog Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories, click here.) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @RickNeale1 | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/traffic-expected-brevard-launch-spectators-five-cruise-ships-arrive/7878812001/ | 2022-08-25T12:20:49 | 0 | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/traffic-expected-brevard-launch-spectators-five-cruise-ships-arrive/7878812001/ |
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — A portion of Route 11 in Cumberland County is closed while firefighters battle a nearby fire.
According to emergency dispatch, crews were sent to the 1000 block of North Second Street in East Pennsboro Township around 6:45 a.m. on Aug. 25 for a report of a fire.
It's unclear at this point how the fire started or if any injuries have been suffered.
As a result of the blaze, all lanes of Route 11 are closed while firefighters remain on scene.
Route 11 northbound is closed between Second Street and State Street, while Route 11 southbound is closed between the intersection of State Street and Market Street, according to 511PA.
This is a developing story. FOX43 will provide updates when they become available. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/route-11-closed-fire-east-pennsboro-cumberland-county-fire/521-d61ab3bc-9233-4ebe-bd5d-58ac64b9725c | 2022-08-25T12:22:02 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/route-11-closed-fire-east-pennsboro-cumberland-county-fire/521-d61ab3bc-9233-4ebe-bd5d-58ac64b9725c |
An Allentown City Council committee meeting on several proposed abortion rights ordinances drew over 100 members of the public and was marked by several tense moments between the audience and council members.
The four ordinances, sponsored by members Josh Siegel, Cynthia Mota, Ce-Ce Gerlach, Natalie Santos and Candida Affa aim to protect abortion rights in Allentown.
The most controversial of the proposals, Bill 60, would create a 15-foot buffer zone around hospitals and clinics, designed to put space between patients and anti-abortion advocates that frequent the Planned Parenthood clinic on Ninth Street.
Siegel, the bill’s prime sponsor, said the Allentown clinic has seen 11 “heightened security incidents” this year. Anti-abortion protesters have blocked the clinic’s walkway with a statue, confronted patients as they exit their vehicles and engaged in verbal arguments with patients ― in some cases, police were called, he said.
Here at Allentown city council for a committee meeting on abortion rights ordinances. This is the most people I’ve ever seen at a city council meeting. @mcall pic.twitter.com/EiJU3DwdtR
— Lindsay Weber (@lindsay_weber_) August 24, 2022
But anti-abortion advocates, some of whom called themselves “street counselors,” said the buffer zone infringes on their freedom of assembly. They argued a zone is not needed because their conduct is peaceful and no police reports or charges filed have been filed as a result of a clinic incident.
Some shared personal stories about their own pregnancies and said advocates should not be restricted from the buffer zone area.
“When I had my abortions years ago, I did not have anyone there to tell me how abortion affected them, and I spent 35 years suffering,” said Cheryl Keefer, a member of the Bethlehem/Easton chapter of Pennsylvanians for Human Life. “I so wish that I had had someone there to give me some insight and show me other options that could have changed my life.”
The tensions weren’t limited to the audience. Siegel and council member Daryl Hendricks sparred over the ordinance, which Hendricks opposes. There is not enough evidence that harassment outside of clinics is common place, Hendricks said, and vowed to bring in Police Chief Charles Roca to testify to that point.
Siegel pushed back on Hendricks and made the case for a buffer zone.
“You don’t need the ability to physically impose your presence on someone else, you’re not entitled to someone else’s personal space, and you’re not entitled to someone else’s body,” Siegel said, raising his voice to the point of yelling.
“Calm yourself,” Hendricks said as the audience erupted in jeers. “Don’t lecture me.”
Siegel also shared fighting words with the ordinance’s opponents in the audience.
“The reality is, the vast majority of Americans support access to reproductive health care,” Siegel said.
He gestured to a man standing near the podium wearing a Trump 2020 hat.
“And I’m going to borrow your hat for a second there sir, because I believe Trump once said facts don’t care about your feelings, and that’s the reality,” he added.
“No, no, no, we’re here to hear testimony,” said council President Cynthia Mota, as the audience audibly flared up following Siegel’s comments.
First Call
Mota banged her gavel several times throughout the meeting, reminding the audience and council to remain civil. Mayor Matt Tuerk, who usually does not weigh in during committee meetings, also chided the audience for its frequent jeers and interruptions.
The director of an Allentown crisis pregnancy center threatened legal action against the city over one of the ordinances.
Bill 61 would regulate the “deceptive advertising practices” of crisis pregnancy centers. Allentown is home to one, Bright Hope, which provides resources to pregnant women intended to dissuade them from choosing abortion.
John Merwath, executive director of Bright Hope, said the ordinance unfairly targets his organization, which he said helps support women through their pregnancy and birth.
“If this passes, the city will be sued,” he said. “And you will lose.”
All four ordinances were forwarded to the September 7 council meeting, where members will hold a final vote.
Morning Call reporter Lindsay Weber can be reached at 610-820-6681 and liweber@mcall.com. | https://www.mcall.com/news/local/allentown/mc-nws-allentown-abortion-ordinances-city-council-committee-roe-wade-20220825-f6kpu73ckvgpbl7xrp47565ola-story.html | 2022-08-25T12:26:12 | 0 | https://www.mcall.com/news/local/allentown/mc-nws-allentown-abortion-ordinances-city-council-committee-roe-wade-20220825-f6kpu73ckvgpbl7xrp47565ola-story.html |
The Allentown Health Bureau will offer two clinics, including one today, to administer a limited supply of the monkeypox vaccine Jynneos.
The other clinic will be on Sept. 1. Both clinics will be held from 4 to 6 p.m.
The monkeypox vaccine is administered in two doses. The second dose will be scheduled at the time an individual receives their first vaccine.
To be eligible to receive the vaccine, individuals must fall into one of these categories:
- Gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, and/or transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender non-binary persons who are age 18 or older who have had multiple (2+) or anonymous sex partners in the past 14 days
One of the following criteria must also be met:
- Have knowledge or suspicion that they may have been exposed to monkeypox or another STI in the past 14 days
- Have had any newly diagnosed STI in the past 3 months, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, early syphilis, or HIV
- Have attended an event, met sex partner(s) through online apps or social media platforms, or exchanged money or other goods/services for sex
- Have a condition that may increase their risk for severe disease if infected with monkeypox virus, such as HIV or another condition that weakens their immune system, or they have a history of atopic dermatitis or eczema
- Be on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis
- Sex workers of any sexual orientation or gender identity
The clinics are offering 30 appointments each day — a total of 60 first dose vaccines. Appointments can be scheduled by calling the Allentown Health Bureau at 610-437-7760 ext. 0. Once all appointment slots are filled up, names will be added to a waiting list for future availability. | https://www.mcall.com/news/local/mc-nws-allentown-monkeypox-vaccines-20220825-bnxm253kdzaepefde6jrwkjmje-story.html | 2022-08-25T12:26:18 | 1 | https://www.mcall.com/news/local/mc-nws-allentown-monkeypox-vaccines-20220825-bnxm253kdzaepefde6jrwkjmje-story.html |
What's Happening: 8 things to do in the Fayetteville area in the coming days
If your weekends are spent bird watching in your backyard, North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Harnett County is offering to teach you about the prothonotary warbler — a small, black-and-yellow bird species that cavity nests over bodies of water like swamps, lakes and ponds.
Their population has declined more than 1% per year from 1966–2015, resulting in a cumulative loss of 42% over that period, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey.
"Installation of nest boxes with predator guards and restoration of natural flood regimes to forested wetlands on the breeding grounds have been successful at increasing local populations," according to Cooperative Extension.
You can do your part to help save the species from 2-5 p.m. Saturday in Lillington by attending the event, Build a Nest Box. Participants will do just that — build two boxes: one to take home and one that will be placed in local parks to encourage the prothonotary warbler to nest here. Participants will also learn how to monitor their boxes for success.
The course is at the N.C. Cooperative Extension | Harnett County Center, 126 Alexander Drive.
The cost is $14. Visit eventbrite.com and search for Build a Nest Box to register. Visit the extension website at https://harnett.ces.ncsu.edu/ to learn about other programs.
Here are seven other events in the area into next week:
Thursday
Cider and Pie Pairing
A Cider and Pie Pairing is 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Fayetteville Pie Company, 253 Westwood Shopping Center, Fayetteville.
Each $25 ticket includes two Austin Eastciders and two 4-inch savory pies
There will be an art gallery with art for sale by Natty and Nice Creations and light jazz to classic pop music by Moonlight Stories featuring Syreeta Jackson on clarinet and Champ Saint-Amand on guitar.
Tickets sales end at 8 p.m. Wednesday. Visit eventbrite.com and search Cider and Pie Pairing for tickets.
Saturday
Massey Hill Fun Day
New Hope Gospel Ministries hosts Massey Hill Fun Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, at the Massey Hill Recreation Center, 1612 Camden Road, Fayetteville.
The free event will feature hamburgers, hot dogs, popcorn, drinks, and ice cream. There will be games and activities, face painting, bouncy houses and a splash pad.
Kings & Queens Drag Show
The Taphouse at Huske Hardware House Restaurant & Brewery hosts The Kings & Queens Drag Show, 8-10 p.m., Saturday, at 411 Hay St., Fayetteville.
From 8-10p.m. Saturday, host KiKi Diamond emcees an evening of entertainment provided by Veronica Diamond, Marcel Blaze, Giovonni Dinomight Addams and Lola Carmichael!
This is an event for ages 21 and older with a $15 cover charge. Doors open at 5 p.m. Seating is on a first-come-first-serve basis.A full-service bar and heavy appetizers are available for purchase.
Visit on eventbrite.com and search Kings & Queens Drag Show for tickets.
Animal rescue class
Patriot K-Nine is offering a class for local animal rescue and shelter fosters to learn more about dog behavior from 6-8 p.m. Saturday at 4902 Yadkin Road, Suite 200, Fayetteville.
In this free two-hour class, attendees will learn about types of aggression, how to break up a dog fight, confidence building, leash walking, and tips and tricks to successfully foster animals. There are 25 spots available. To register visit eventbrite.com and search "rescue and foster training."
For more information visit Patriot K-Nine on Facebook.
Sunday
Bright Light Brewing Company and the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra host Symphony on Tap, 5:30 p.m., Sunday, at 444 W. Russell St., Suite 102, in Fayetteville.
The free event features the FSO Jazz Quartet.
Tuesday
Downtown Salsa & Swing Night
Every Tuesday night is Downtown Salsa & Swing Night, free salsa and swing dance classes, hosted by the Culture & Heritage Alliance at Volta Space, 116 Person St., Fayetteville. Salsa classes are 7-8 p.m. Swing/Shag are 8-9 p.m.
Beginner and intermediate dancers are invited.
Open Mic Night
Infinite Art Studio hosts Open Mic Night every Tuesday from 6-9 p.m. at Fayetteville Bakery & Cafe, 3037 Boone Trail Ext., Fayetteville.
The event is billed as clean and family-friendly. All musicians, comedians and spoken word artists are welcomed.
The Fayetteville Observer app is free to download To submit an event, email the details, with "event" in the subject line, to news@fayobserver.com. | https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/eight-things-do-fayetteville-area-next-few-days/10155812002/ | 2022-08-25T12:26:56 | 1 | https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/eight-things-do-fayetteville-area-next-few-days/10155812002/ |
A Philadelphia police officer shot a dog after investigators said it latched onto its owner’s arm and refused to let go despite the man’s family members hitting the animal with a baseball bat in an effort to get it to release its grip.
The officer responded to the area of 5th and Venango streets in North Philadelphia just before 1 a.m. Thursday, firing a single shot and striking the dog, which had badly injured the 41-year-old man and his wife, Philadelphia Police Department Chief Inspector Scott Small said.
Prior to the officer opening fire, the man’s family members had tried hitting the dog with an aluminum baseball bat, but they told detectives that that only caused the pit bull mix to bite down harder, according to Small.
“The bullet did its job, so the dog no longer was attacking this 41-year-old male,” he said.
The man suffered several “serious” bites to his head, neck, torso, leg and both arms, causing him to bleed heavily, Small said. The man’s 38-year-old wife had a bite on her leg, the chief inspector added. Both were expected to survive.
Investigators were trying to determine what prompted the attack. The dog was taken in by animal control, Small said. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/police-officer-shoots-dog-that-latched-onto-owners-arm-in-philadelphia/3344840/ | 2022-08-25T12:33:16 | 1 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/police-officer-shoots-dog-that-latched-onto-owners-arm-in-philadelphia/3344840/ |
PHOENIX — Thousands of people who received unemployment during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic are now being asked to pay that money back.
The Arizona Department of Economic Security went through tens of thousands of approved cases, only to find some accounts that never should've qualified. Some also may have received too much.
One woman who spoke with 12News said she now faces a bill that she can't afford.
"It's been a slap in the face really," she said.
For Delci, who wanted to only go by her nickname, the past several months have been hard.
"It's not my fault they made a mistake," she said. "I'm worried they're going to come knocking on my door because I can't afford to pay this."
During the pandemic, Delci couldn't work so she filed for unemployment. She started getting her weekly payments, but that stopped about a year ago. Recently, she got a piece of mail stating that she now owes money and a lot of it.
"I got this account that I owe $14,000," she said. "I had no idea what was going on."
From January to June, the Department of Economic Security said they found 27,000 Arizonans who were "overpaid" more than $121 million in benefits. That means they were told they qualified, got paid but then were told they shouldn't have been approved in the first place.
"We needed the money at the time," she said. "I wasn't working, I wasn't able to work. Literally, my daughter had to be home from school because she's had medical conditions her whole life. Now it's showing that was not a valid reason."
To make matters worse, she said her account was also flagged as 'fraud.' Confused as to why she said she can't get ahold of anyone at DES for answers.
"I've called several times and left messages," she said. "I'm sure there's people out there abusing the system, but the mass majority of people that have the issue are genuinely needing it and now they're getting this and saying oh just kidding, we're going to take that back we messed up, that's not fair."
Delci is now taking it one day at a time and said she's not sure what to do next, but is hopeful, a resolution will soon be found.
DES declined 12News' requests for an interview but said in an e-mail they've worked hard to prevent fraud but still paid well over $100 million in suspected fraudulent claims. They also said they'll work with people to "minimize the impact of overpayments whenever possible."
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/thousands-arizona-residents-asked-to-pay-back-unemployment-received-during-pandemic/75-ed55ef77-2ae0-470d-b8b7-8b8ecf584c48 | 2022-08-25T12:38:26 | 0 | https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/thousands-arizona-residents-asked-to-pay-back-unemployment-received-during-pandemic/75-ed55ef77-2ae0-470d-b8b7-8b8ecf584c48 |
What to Know
- The 54th Annual Butter Sculpture was revealed at The Great New York State Fair in Syracuse earlier this week.
- This year’s theme was "Refuel Her Greatness – Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Title IX," with the new sculpture highlighting female athletes and features a progression of female athletes of different ages.
- The massive 800 pound butter sculpture was constructed over a 10-day period by artists Jim Victor and Marie Pelton, and features color for the first time in 16 years.
Butter isn’t just for toasted bread.
The 54th Annual Butter Sculpture was revealed at The Great New York State Fair in Syracuse on Tuesday.
This year’s theme was "Refuel Her Greatness – Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Title IX," with the new sculpture highlighting female athletes and features a progression of female athletes of different ages from a child skier to a high-school aged gymnast to a college lacrosse player to, finally, an adult runner.
The massive 800 pound butter sculpture was constructed over a 10-day period by artists Jim Victor and Marie Pelton of Conshohocken, Penn. This year also marks a first: for the very first time in 16 years, color was featured in the butter sculpture.
Additionally, a chocolate milk bottle is the centerpiece, to emphasize the role that it plays in helping female athletes prepare for what comes next.
U.S. Olympic Athlete and professional runner Elle St. Pierre participating in the unveiling.
News
“As a professional athlete and a dairy farmer, I am proud to produce a product—chocolate milk—that I know helps athletes refuel and recover after a tough workout or competition," St. Pierre said.
To put the butter to good use, after the New York State Fair, it will be deconstructed, and transported to Noblehurst Farms in Linwood where it will be recycled in a methane digester to create renewable energy. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/ny-state-fair-unveils-2022-butter-sculpture/3838187/ | 2022-08-25T12:43:52 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/ny-state-fair-unveils-2022-butter-sculpture/3838187/ |
There will be sunshine before the (possible) storms.
The tri-state area will see another day near 90 degrees with a lot of sunshine on Thursday. However, clouds and humidity will start to increase tonight ahead of a cold front.
The New York City metro area will see showers and storms develop early Friday afternoon, with the possibility of strong to severe storms, gusty winds, and even some hail.
The Hudson Valley is also outlooked for the potential of a tornado or two.
Although it is expected for the weekend to remain dry, we still can’t rule out showers this weekend.
August ends with another front, more storms, heat and humidity, before relief arrives to start September.
Copyright NBC New York | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/sunny-and-humid-ahead-of-possible-severe-storms-friday/3838499/ | 2022-08-25T12:43:58 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/sunny-and-humid-ahead-of-possible-severe-storms-friday/3838499/ |
City council approves independent investigation for allegations by Bradenton Police officers
The Bradenton City Council approved an independent investigation on Wednesday that will look into allegations made by former and current Bradenton Police officers against Chief Melanie Bevan .
Retired federal judge Greg Holder and North Port Capt.Brian Gregory will assist the city in an independent investigation. Holder will be assigned to investigate allegations against the chief, and Gregory will investigate allegations made by former and current officers.
The investigation was spurred after former and current officers came forward with allegations against Bevan and command staff that included an alleged "unlawful search" during a response to an arrest warrant; unlawful arrests encouraged by command staff; and seizure of a phone that belonged to a sergeant's wife who committed suicide.
Bradenton Police Chief:calls unlawful search allegations 'slanderous'
Also:Four more Bradenton police officers file complaints against the chief of police
Mayor Gene Brown said in a written statement that Bevan won't be suspended during the investigation.
"In regard to the potential allegations made against Chief Bevan, the affidavits are not well supported with direct statements or action by the chief," Brown said in a written statement. "However, these allegations will be thoroughly investigated, but I see no need to relieve Chief Bevan of her duties during this investigation."
City lawyer Scott Rudacille said at the council meeting that Holder will be under contract by the city, and Gregory will assist him. Ward 4 Councilman Bill Sanders said it could be a conflict of interest, especially if there are other agencies that can do it at no cost since it would their responsibility.
"Now you have a neighboring chief of police that's friends with our chief of police, and this is suspect as to why you wouldn't let a government agency that oversees police departments like the FBI or FDLE or both," Sanders said at the meeting.
Ward 3 Councilman Patrick Roff suggested an addendum to the motion so that the city could ask the FDLE to conduct its own investigation in addition to Gregory and Holder's assistance. But his proposal was not approved. | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/allegations-against-bpd-chief-outside-investigation-sought-city-council/7876394001/ | 2022-08-25T12:44:26 | 1 | https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/allegations-against-bpd-chief-outside-investigation-sought-city-council/7876394001/ |
KENOSHA — The 20th season of Peanut Butter and Jam concerts wraps up its 2022 slate today with performances by 7th Heaven.
The band is perhaps best known for opening for Bon Jovi at Chicago's Soldier Field.
Chicago-based 7th Heaven was started in 1985 by guitarist Richie Hofherr, Tony Di Giulio and Michael Mooshey. The band has continued to perform ever since, with a changing roster of performers.
The band was reportedly named by co-founder Mooshey in 1985, inspired by the line "we'll be right in 7th heaven" from the song "Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley & His Comets.
To date, 7th Heaven has sold some 100,000 CDs to date. The group's "Silver" double CD, released in 2004, was a popular release.
There are two free concerts today, Aug. 25: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.
People are also reading…
The weekly performances take place in Veterans Memorial Park, located at 54th Street and Sixth Avenue on Kenosha’s harbor.
At the afternoon show, audiences get “a sneak preview” of the evening performance, as members of that week’s band perform an acoustic show.
The full band then takes the stage for the evening show. | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/kenoshas-peanut-butter-and-jam-concerts-continue-aug-25/article_0ce1fb4a-2265-11ed-a69e-c3429b468a1c.html | 2022-08-25T12:54:22 | 1 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/kenoshas-peanut-butter-and-jam-concerts-continue-aug-25/article_0ce1fb4a-2265-11ed-a69e-c3429b468a1c.html |
If you go
What: Picnic in the Park
When: 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27
Where: On the south end of Petrifying Springs Park, 5555 Seventh St. in Somers, next to the Biergarten
Admission: Free
Schedule:
4 to 8 p.m.: Local community partner booths
4 to 8 p.m.: Kids’ games and bounce houses
4 to 9 p.m.: Concessions — 2022 Food Truck Series
4 to 6 p.m.: Live music by the Brothers Quinn (folk, Americana)
People are also reading…
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.: Live music by the Ethan Keller Group (rock)
Dusk: Fireworks finale
Note: Western Kenosha County Transit will provide shuttle services for visitors to the Biergarten and parking areas. Additional parking and shuttle services will be available at University of Wisconsin-Parkside Parking Lots B and C in the Rita Lot.
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A funny thing happened on the way to the "Picnic in the Park" celebration on Aug. 20 in Petrifying Springs Park in Somers.
That morning, the weather forecast called for rain, including thunderstorms.
"We had to make a decision about 10 a.m., and it was looking like a heavy chance of storms," said said Kenosha County Parks Director Matt Collins. "The park doesn't have a lot of shelter options, and if there's anything severe in the forecast, we have to take it very seriously.
"The storm threat was a real thing, and we had to cancel."
Fortunately, the Parks Department was able to reschedule the outdoor event for this Saturday, Aug. 27.
(The forecast for that day? Partly cloudy skies, temps in the mid 70s and a slight chance of rain.)
Much of the event's schedule remains the same: Live music, interactive kids’ activities, food trucks and fireworks.
The big change comes with the music lineup.
"The Brothers Quinn group was already scheduled for the Biergarten for that day" -- the Biergarten is adjacent to the event, on the south end of the park -- "so we put them on the bigger event stage, from 4 to 6 p.m.," Collins said.
Band members describe their sound as "the kind of music that we enjoy listening to -- and our tastes are all over the map. You can count on Irish, old country, hip-hop, modern acoustic rock, classic rock, western swing, blues ... you get the idea." They add that "hearing songs from the Beatles or Radiohead is not uncommon."
The four-piece group is fronted by award-winning fiddle player Blaine McQuinn, joined by his brother Timothy McQuinn on drums, washboard and voice, along with Kenny Jones on upright bass and Brian Lucas on harmonica, guitar and voice.
At 6:30 p.m., the Ethan Keller Group -- originally scheduled to perform at 4 p.m. -- "was moved up to the headlining spot," Collins said (replacing Failure to Launch, which has a scheduling conflict on Aug. 27).
Keller, a Milwaukee-based singer/songwriter, produces blends of original music, melding folk, blues, and rock, with funk, jazz and hip-hop.
He has been performing for more than 20 years, has appeared at venues and music festivals in more than 30 states and has sold more than 10,000 albums.
Collins is hoping people come out to enjoy the music and other activities and stick around for the fireworks show, going off at dusk.
"You can't have an event like this without fireworks," he said. "The show should start right after the band stops playing. We don't want people to have to wait around.
The one-week weather delay, he said, "can always happen with any outdoor event. We've been lucky for so many years, but people understand we can't control the weather. We're happy to bring back the event this weekend."
Upcoming Kenosha County Park events:
The fall season will be a busy one in Kenosha County Parks, with several events scheduled:
Sunday, Sept. 4: Southern Wisconsin All Airborne Chapter Car Show in Petrifying Springs Park. The car show moved from Simmons Island to "Pets" in 2021 "and it was wildly successful," said Kenosha County Parks Director Matt Collins. "It's a beautiful open space, and a lot of classic cars -- more than 450 -- fit in there."
Thursday-Saturday, Sept. 8-11: USCA National Sieger Show (German Shepherd Dog Show) in Petrifying Springs Park.
Saturday, Sept. 10: Oktoberfest in Old Settlers Park, Paddock Lake. "This event has been going on for more than a decade," Collins said of the annual celebration, highlighted by the popular "Dachshund Dash" wiener dog race. "It's run by a dedicated group of local volunteers, with the proceeds going to fund the building of a permanent band shell at the park." Construction of that band shell, he said, should begin later this fall.
Friday-Sunday, Sept. 16-18: Petrifying Springs Biergarten Oktoberfest. "This is a huge event," Collins said, "which draws a big crowd." As for why these "Oktoberfest" events are happening in September and not October, he explained that the "Oktoberfest" name refers to the seasonal beers and not the month. Also, Wisconsin weather in September is more generally more favorable for outdoor events -- and "Septemberfest" just doesn't have the same ring to it.
Saturday, Sept. 17: Fall Fun Fest at the Pringle Nature Center in Bristol Woods Park. "This is a traditional event with hay rides, animal demonstrations, children's crafts and food, Collins said. Though it's in mid-September "it always seems to be scorching hot that day," he said, adding that "we planted a lot of trees there, so in about 20 years we'll have more shade."
Saturday, Sept. 17: Pike River Cleanup in Petrifying Springs Park.
Saturday, Sept. 24: Fall Wheel Ride. This event starts in Kennedy Park, with bike riders heading to Petrifying Springs Park, where they'll find refreshments and bike-friendly activities.
Saturday, Sept. 24: Tri-Fox Flex Disc Golf Tournament in Silver Lake Park.
Saturday, Oct. 8: Flannel Fest in Petrifying Springs Park. This event, which was new in 2021, features the Jockey Undie Run and a lumberjack show. | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/picnic-in-the-park-2-0-kenosha-county-parks-try-again/article_be7d6db4-2349-11ed-ba59-9f09e8f61450.html | 2022-08-25T12:54:28 | 0 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/picnic-in-the-park-2-0-kenosha-county-parks-try-again/article_be7d6db4-2349-11ed-ba59-9f09e8f61450.html |
Happy Burger Day! We like this holiday so much, we’re celebrating it at lunch AND suppertime. You can grill up some burgers yourself or stop by your favorite burger place today. However you choose to mark this special day, don’t skimp on the toppings.
August is Peach Month, which means you still have a few days left to perfect that peach pie recipe. Remember: Sharing is caring!
The 20th season of Peanut Butter and Jam concerts wraps up today with performances by 7th Heaven. The weekly performances take place in Veterans Memorial Park, located at 54th Street and Sixth Avenue on Kenosha’s harbor. The free concerts are twice every Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.
The new Racine HarborMarket returns to Monument Square from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. today. Shoppers will find fresh regional produce, baked goods and arts and crafts vendors. There will also be live music and a beer tent. For more on outdoor markets, see today’s Get Out & About section in the Kenosha News. | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/todays-events-for-thursday-aug-25/article_65d4828e-234d-11ed-99bd-f35b7687515d.html | 2022-08-25T12:54:34 | 0 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/todays-events-for-thursday-aug-25/article_65d4828e-234d-11ed-99bd-f35b7687515d.html |
What: Acrylic International Biennial Juried Exhibition 2022
Where: Kenosha Public Museum, 5500 First Ave.
When: The paintings are on display through Nov. 6
Hours: The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday (closed holidays).
Admission: Free
Information: KenoshaPublicMuseum.org
Coming up: A reception and gallery talk is 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24.
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KENOSHA — The Acrylic International Biennial Juried Exhibition 2022 — featuring 45 paintings — is on display at the Kenosha Public Museum through Nov. 6.
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This is a new exhibit for the museum and highlights “the variety of subjects, styles and techniques possible in the acrylic medium, as well as the diversity and skill of artists working today,” said Rachel Klees Andersen, curator of exhibits at Kenosha’s public museums.
The international juried exhibit, she said, “was made possible thanks to a $100,000 endowment from the International Society of Acrylic Painters. The exhibit will return every other year as a biennial event.”
When the International Society of Acrylic Painters decided to disband after a 25-year run, the board voted to endow this show at the Kenosha Public Museum, thanks to efforts by Kenosha artist Dan Simoneau, the group’s president.
The artists’ group, he said, was “impressed by the museum and its reputation for presenting art exhibits, including the Transparent Watercolor Society of America National Juried Exhibition, which it has hosted for over a decade.”
As the the largest “of the few international art societies recognizing acrylic painting,” Simoneau said, “we wanted to ensure our legacy continued with a museum known for world-class art exhibitions and a staff dedicated to seeing that our legacy and focus on acrylic painting continues.”
Hosting this show, Andersen said, “makes Kenosha the center of the best of current acrylic painting from around the globe.”
The show’s juror, artist John Jude Palencar, chose the 45 paintings from 311 images that were submitted.
On Saturday, Sept. 24, Palencar will be at the exhibit, hosting a public reception and a gallery talk with some of the featured artists. | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/watch-now-kenosha-public-museum-hosting-international-acrylic-painting-exhibit/article_024ca150-2263-11ed-a25d-5fbc025567a5.html | 2022-08-25T12:54:40 | 1 | https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/watch-now-kenosha-public-museum-hosting-international-acrylic-painting-exhibit/article_024ca150-2263-11ed-a25d-5fbc025567a5.html |
TEXAS, USA — Thursday is a big day in the fight over abortion as Texas’s trigger law officially takes effect.
The last time abortion was fully banned in Texas was nearly 50 years ago in 1973, before Roe v Wade. Come Thursday, abortion will be nearly fully banned once again.
“It will be a felony in Texas to perform an abortion except where the life of the mother is seriously in danger by continuing the pregnancy," Law Professor at the University of Houston Law Center Seth Chandler said.
Chandler said if a person is caught performing an abortion in Texas, surgically or by providing medication, knowing it’ll be used for an abortion, that person may be charged with a felony with a punishment of up to life in prison.
On top of that, the possibility of civil penalties is still in place from Senate Bill 8.
“So that in addition to facing life in prison for performing an abortion, you might be able, under SB8, to be sued multiple times all over Texas at $10,000 a pop, plus you’re going to lose your license," Chandler said.
And because performing an abortion in Texas is now a crime, so is aiding and abetting the procedure.
“If I give you money, knowing that you are going to use it for an abortion in Texas, we’re not talking abort travel outside of Texas, knowing that you’re going to use it for an illegal abortion in Texas, then I have aided and abetted," Chandler said.
According to the law, there are only a few exceptions: to save the mother’s life, end an ectopic pregnancy or remove a miscarried fetus.
But Chandler said the law is written so that if a pregnant women were to get an illegal abortion, she would not be penalized.
“The woman herself does not commit a crime. The pregnant woman is not, currently under this law, guilty of anything. It’s the person who performs the abortion," Chandler said. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-trigger-law/285-298145d2-2e1b-4252-a880-0f80b16967ac | 2022-08-25T13:00:17 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-trigger-law/285-298145d2-2e1b-4252-a880-0f80b16967ac |
Mark Hutcherson, lead adoption counselor with the Richmond SPCA, carries a dog inside as approximately 90 beagles, of the 4,000 dogs rescued from the Envigo breeding and research facility in Cumberland, Va., arrive at the Richmond SPCA on August 5, 2022. The Northern Virginia organization Homeward Trails Animal Rescue transported the dogs from Cumberland County to Richmond. Ten dogs were to remain at the Richmond SPCA and the remainder were divided up amongst other rescue and adoption organizations. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH
Eva Russo
Icon for Envigo beagles when they become available at the Richmond SPCA.
The Los Angeles Times reported that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have adopted an Envigo beagle from Virginia.
Her name is Mia, and she’s a 7-year-old beagle rescued from the Envigo breeding and research plant in Cumberland County, according to the story.
Rescued Beagles Arrive at the Richmond SPCA
In a “rags to royalty” story, Mia’s new home can be found at Prince Harry and Meghan’s sprawling Montecito estate in California.
Mia is one of 4,000 beagles rescued in July from overcrowded and unsanitary conditions at the Envigo breeding facility in Cumberland. The Humane Society of the United States has been working with shelters and organizations across the nation to place dogs and puppies for adoption.
In Virginia, beagles rescued from Envigo have gone to animal rescues in Arlington, Lynchburg, Charlottesville and in western parts of the state. The Richmond SPCA received 10 Envigo beagles in early August and served as a hub for the animals before they were adopted or fostered. Richmond Animal Care and Control received 84 beagles, and PETA also received 25 beagles, which were quickly adopted.
“It’s such a compelling story. They are part of a historic case. This is the largest removal of dogs from a single company in American history,” Dan Paden, vice president of PETA, said.
“The 25 dogs we took in were spoken for before they even arrived,” Paden added. “Shelters have quickly found homes for these beagles in a matter of days. The waiting list is longer than the animals available.”
Paden met and helped care for several of the Envigo beagles at PETA. As for their temperament, he said, “They are initially a bit shy and cautious at first, which is understandable given that their prior contact with humans has been minimal and quite stressful. But they’ve been very fast to adjust and to realize that they can finally be dogs and go for walks, be on grass and sleep in beds rather than a wire cage.”
As for Prince Harry and Meghan’s new dog, Mia was transported with eight of her newborn puppies from Maryland and adopted from the Beagle Freedom Project, a California beagle rescue group.
According to the L.A. Times article, the famous couple intentionally picked Mia because she was older.
“It’s wonderful, saw that they adopted a senior dog because they know that puppies are very easy to place,” Paden said. “I think that sets a great example for Americans who are opening up their hearts and homes to the other 3,900 beagles.”
The Richmond SPCA said it is working with HSUS to make additional space to bring more Envigo beagles, if they become available, into the Richmond shelter.
“Beagles and hounds are very common in shelters across Virginia,” Tabitha Frizzell Treloar, a spokesperson for the Richmond SPCA, said. “There are so many in need of homes at the Richmond SPCA.”
“It’s a wonderful example that the Duke and Duchess have set,” Tamsen Kingry, CEO of the Richmond SPCA, said via email. “Many thousands more dogs find themselves homeless for any other number of unrelated reasons but are nevertheless in need of good homes. Visiting a shelter or rescue in search of your next pet is always the best decision you can make.”
The Richmond SPCA has added an icon for the Envigo beagles to its online Matchfinder tool. It looks like a blue house with a paw on it.
This weekend, the Richmond SPCA is participating in the nationwide Clear The Shelters adoption event. Anyone who adopts from the humane center Friday through Sunday can name their own adoption fee. More details can be found at richmondspca.org/events/clear-the-shelters-2.
PHOTOS: Beagles rescued from Envigo arrive at CASPCA
A 19-year-old Henrico County man was sentenced to serve eight years in prison last week in the shooting death of his 18-year-old girlfriend, whose body was found partially propped up against the back door of an apartment where they were temporarily staying. Whether the shooting was intentional or accidental was never resolved.
A counselor for the state’s largest public school system kept his job for more than a year and a half after his arrest in Chesterfield on charges of soliciting prostitution from a minor.
Stoney tweeted that "firing Superintendent Kamras less than a week before the start of the academic year would be catastrophic for our kids and this community."
Superintendent Jason Kamras said such a "tectonic" change would cause upheaval for the city's public schools as students prepare to head back to class next week.
The counselor flew under the radar and continued his employment with the state’s largest school division for 20 months after his first solicitation arrest. The Virginia Department of Corrections is opening an investigation regarding the incident, an official said.
Mark Hutcherson, lead adoption counselor with the Richmond SPCA, carries a dog inside as approximately 90 beagles, of the 4,000 dogs rescued from the Envigo breeding and research facility in Cumberland, Va., arrive at the Richmond SPCA on August 5, 2022. The Northern Virginia organization Homeward Trails Animal Rescue transported the dogs from Cumberland County to Richmond. Ten dogs were to remain at the Richmond SPCA and the remainder were divided up amongst other rescue and adoption organizations. EVA RUSSO/TIMES-DISPATCH | https://richmond.com/news/local/a-regal-beagle-meghan-prince-harry-adopt-beagle-from-virginia-breeding-facility/article_a49602b0-a4f9-5405-904b-700bb8bc661d.html | 2022-08-25T13:14:13 | 0 | https://richmond.com/news/local/a-regal-beagle-meghan-prince-harry-adopt-beagle-from-virginia-breeding-facility/article_a49602b0-a4f9-5405-904b-700bb8bc661d.html |
GREENWOOD, Ind. — Police are searching for a suspect after Whiteland Community High School student was shot and killed while waiting for a school bus Thursday morning.
Deputies responded to a report of shots fired near Winterwood and Providence drives, which is near U.S. 31 and East Worthsville Road, in Greenwood shortly before 7 a.m.
Greenwood Assistant Chief of Police Matt Fillenwarth confirmed the victim was a 16-year-old boy, who was a sophomore at Whiteland and recently transferred to the school district.
Police believe the shooting was targeted, and the victim was shot multiple times. Fillenwarth said the victim was waiting for the school bus with several other people when the suspect approached the him. Those witnesses ran before the victim was shot, and the suspect left the scene on foot.
Johnson County Sheriff Duane Burgess told 13News multiple agencies have responded to search for a suspect.
A spokesperson with Greenwood Community Schools said their schools were initially placed on lockdown out of precaution.
At 7:45 a.m., Greenwood High School posted on social media that the school had shifted from a lockdown to a lockout situation, with exterior doors locked and students remaining in place unless given administrative approval and escort. | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/police-searching-for-suspect-after-deadly-greenwood-shooting-nearby-schools-on-lockdown/531-0e9c6fa2-c2c3-45d6-a5e6-a9ce6d78a2a7 | 2022-08-25T13:14:31 | 1 | https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/police-searching-for-suspect-after-deadly-greenwood-shooting-nearby-schools-on-lockdown/531-0e9c6fa2-c2c3-45d6-a5e6-a9ce6d78a2a7 |
Indianapolis traffic: Fatal crash on I-465 southbound ramp at West Washington
Phyllis Cha
Indianapolis Star
There was a single vehicle crash on the West Washington Street entrance ramp to Interstate 465 that killed at least one person. Delays should be expected in the area.
Indiana Department of Transportation said the entrance ramp will be closed until about 8:30 a.m.
Check current traffic conditions here.
This article will update.
Contact Phyllis Cha at pcha@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @phyllischa. | https://www.indystar.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/indianapolis-traffic-fatal-crash-on-i-465-ramp-at-west-washington/65419407007/ | 2022-08-25T13:14:49 | 1 | https://www.indystar.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/indianapolis-traffic-fatal-crash-on-i-465-ramp-at-west-washington/65419407007/ |
Indy residents find community, fun in LGBTQ+ sports leagues
Since community sports non-profit Stonewall Sports established an Indianapolis chapter, LGBTQ+ members and allies have joined the organization – looking for and finding different things.
Annie Nelson joined Stonewall Sports to look for another community outside of work. She found friends that have helped her with her identity as a bisexual woman.
Chase Westby joined to try something new. He’s learned about the diversity in the LGBTQ+ community.
Austin Crawford followed a friend to the kickball league. He found a competitive environment that makes him excited to return each season.
Ernest Hanohano wanted to make deeper connections. He found a place that makes him feel like a kid again.
More:Indianapolis gay bars: 7 spaces made for the LGBTQ+ community
Sidney Phillips needed a reason to get out of her house. Since she joined, she has adjusted her work hours to attend games.
"Even if I had to make up hours," she said, "I still made sure I was there.”
‘Making us stronger’
Stonewall Sports is a national organization that coordinates sports leagues for LGBTQ+ community members and allies with more than 20 locations around the U.S. About 1,300 LGBTQ+ community members and allies have participated in the three leagues currently offered by the Indianapolis chapter, which was established in 2020.
Andrew Merkley, president of the board of directors for Stonewall Sports Indianapolis, said the organization provides an athletic medium for a community that does not have many designated safe spaces outside of the bar scene.
“Our community needs healthy competitive outlets where different parts of the community can come together without fear for their safety or fear of their belonging,” Merkley said.
Each of the Stonewall Sports leagues is split into two divisions: competitive, for people who are more aggressive, and recreational, for those who mainly want to socialize. There are Stonewall Sports members that have been playing sports for years and some who never played before joining — some who swing for the fences and some that occasionally run through second base.
Some members sign up with fully-formed teams while others join as free agents or with a few friends and are then placed on a team by Stonewall Sports. The best part about joining as a free agent is getting to meet new people on the team, Merkley said.
“It’s building our community, it’s making us stronger,” Merkley said. “It’s demonstrating that a trans person, gay person of color and a cis white man, we can all participate together on the same team or play competitively against one another.”
The teams are not required to be split up by gender. Nelson said she likes this because it holds everyone to the same competitive level and is inclusive of transgender and nonbinary people.
More: 'Erased out of the conversation': Transgender, nonbinary Hoosiers frustrated by abortion bill
Each division of each league competes at the end of the season in a championship tournament. The winners of each division get to pick a philanthropic organization and Stonewall will make a donation to each one. Last kickball season, the winners picked Friends of Frederick Douglass Park and GenderNexus.
‘Not completely straight’
About two years ago, Nelson, 34, got involved in Stonewall Sports.
She joined the organization to play a sport, kickball, and find another community outside of work. Now, Nelson is involved in all three leagues offered by the organization – softball, volleyball and kickball – and has made friends that not only love competing, but are also like-minded and have helped her feel accepted in the LGBTQ+ community.
Nelson has been playing sports, mainly softball, since she was 7 years old. While she found comradery with her childhood teams, Nelson said being teammates with people who have similar issues has helped her with her struggles with her identity.
“Being a part of things like this where you can grow your friend circle and actually are able to talk through things and find that identity,” she said, “it’s a lot different.”
While Nelson loves competing and letting off steam by smacking a ball with a bat, her favorite thing about being involved in Stonewall Sports is hanging out around the fields, sipping alcoholic seltzers and watching, talking to and sometimes taunting the players on and off of her team.
Most days these sideline conversations center around trivia spots and stories about fun nights out. But she also knows she is free to talk about her issues as well. She is free to talk about how church leaders at her college would say that it was okay to be gay but not to act on it. She is free to discuss how she always knew she was “not completely straight" in a hometown where she felt wrong for being anything but.
‘In high school, you had to force me to play’
Westby, 28, did not like sports growing up.
“In high school, you had to force me to play,” he said. “I just hated them.”
Stonewall Sports, he said, has changed his opinion. He said he loves catching pop flies while playing kickball for his spring team, the Shady Pitches. He enjoys eating snacks and drinking White Claws, and sometimes Jell-O shots, brought by team supporters. Most of all, he loves meeting people in the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who are different from him as a white cisgender gay man.
Westby grew up in a small town in Georgia where he had to conceal who he was.
“In high school and even college, I just had to keep that to myself," he said. "You didn’t want to act a certain way.”
Because he kept his identity a secret for most of his life, he did not know much about gay culture until after he came out to his aunt in 2017 at the Indy Pride Parade. Joining groups such as the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus and Stonewall Sports has introduced him to experiences such as drag performances and important topics such as stigmas in the LGBTQ+ community.
Westby said that through Stonewall Sports he has met people who have taught him about the trans community and how experiences for people of different races and ethnicities have differed in the queer community.
“It gave me a better perspective of how diverse the community is,” he said.
'Makes me want to come back every season'
Crawford, 32, said he likes Stonewall Sports more each season he plays.
Crawford was already involved in the Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance, an LGBTQ+ sports group that organizes international tennis tournaments, when one of the other members asked if Crawford would join the Stonewall Sports kickball league.
Crawford thought kickball, a game he played as a kid, would be easy. He quickly discovered it’s much more complicated when people actually want to win. But Crawford said he doesn’t mind because he loves the competitive nature of the league.
Sometimes it can get a little aggressive. During one game, one of his teammates dislocated his shoulder while running to get to a base. But Crawford said that was a freak accident that happened during tournament play. While players will fall and slide to win, the league is mainly based on the fun, he said.
“It’s just a fun atmosphere to be around,” he said. “It makes me want to come back every season.”
Crawford said he also likes the opportunity to connect with people outside of the gay bar scene. He said it allows people who don’t enjoy bar hopping to find community.
“This gives everyone something to do,” he said. “It brings out the people who want to try something new and it is not stuck to a nightlife scene.”
More:Central Indiana stars on what it means to rep hometowns on Friday nights
‘A no-judgment zone’
Phillips, 31, said she started participating in Stonewall Sports because she wanted to be more active. She said she isn’t super competitive, so it was more about having fun on the field, which is what she found her first season participating in kickball.
“Even when we lost, oh, we still had fun,” Phillips said about her team. “We would joke on the field and everything.”
Phillips said she struggles with wanting to leave the house, especially since she started working from home in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the people she found at Stonewall Sports keep her coming back every week. While she joined to get exercise, she found an organization where she has gained many friendships, one she considers to be lifelong, and a space where she feels carefree.
“It’s like a no-judgment zone,” she said.
The allies are a part of creating this safe space, she said. As a Black woman that is masculine presenting, it is nice to know a group of people that will step to her aide.
“I have a lot of barriers,” Phillips said. “So, it’s nice to have an ally stand up when you need them to.”
‘Feel like a kid again’
Hanohano, 30, said since he joined Stonewall Sports in 2020, he has been able to facilitate connections, make friends he can have deep conversations with and grow as a leader.
Each season Hanohano has played, he has started a new team. He is not typically a captain, but he does take up a leadership role in the team, usually as a mediator and a trainer for the newbies, teaching them how to bump and hit.
While Hanohano could join a team with his best friends from Stonewall Sports, he said he wants to continue expanding his community by finding players to bring into the league. Plus, he knows he will see his closest friends during nights out and their weekend getaways, such as birthday trips to Atlanta.
Hanohano said he is grateful for Stonewall Sports because he has been able to find friends that he maybe would have never met because of their differing backgrounds or occupations.
“I’m friends with these doctors and lawyers and I am just a car salesman,” he said. “And yet we can sit at the same dinner table and talk about just random things.”
Playing sports again and making friends has taken Hanohano back to his childhood, he said.
“The league,” he said, “has definitely helped me feel like a kid again.”
For more information on Stonewall Sports and how to join a league go to https://stonewallindianapolis.leagueapps.com/
Contact IndyStar reporter Madison Smalstig at MSmalstig@gannett.com. | https://www.indystar.com/story/news/local/indianapolis/2022/08/25/indy-residents-lgbtq-sports-leagues-in-indianapolis-indiana/65380892007/ | 2022-08-25T13:15:01 | 1 | https://www.indystar.com/story/news/local/indianapolis/2022/08/25/indy-residents-lgbtq-sports-leagues-in-indianapolis-indiana/65380892007/ |
AUSTIN, Texas — In late June, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the legal precedent that established a constitutional right to abortion in the U.S. Two months later, Texas' so-called "trigger law" now goes into effect, further increasing restrictions on abortions in the Lone Star State.
The law, which was written to go into effect 30 days after the Supreme Court issued an official judgement overturning Roe v. Wade, increases the criminal and civil penalties associated with abortion in Texas. Performing an abortion is now a felony punishable by up to life in prison and is subject to a civil penalty of at least $100,000, plus attorney's fees.
The law has only narrow exceptions to save the life of a pregnant patient. The Texas Tribune reports that the law criminalizes performing an abortion from the moment of fertilization unless the pregnant patient is facing "a life-threatening physical condition aggravated by, caused by, or arising from a pregnancy."
The law also specifically prohibits prosecuting a pregnant patient who undergoes an abortion.
Texas abortion clinics had already stopped performing the procedure, fearing consequences under state laws that were on the books before Roe v. Wade.
Elizabeth Sepper, a professor of law at the University of Texas at Austin, said her concern with the trigger law is the high rate of uninsured Texans and the impact the law could have on expecting moms and babies.
"We have a maternal mortality crisis here, too. So, in addition to seeing more babies born, we're going to see more moms die. We're going to see more infants die because infant mortality is linked to maternal mortality," Sepper said.
Sepper predicts that the number of women seeking an abortion who will be unable to get one will increase by 10% to 20%, possibly higher. She also said because Texas is very rural in places, there are areas where women don't have access to a physician who is able to deliver, which is another concern.
Texas already had a near-total ban on abortion in place. Senate Bill 8, which was passed in the fall of 2021, allows any private citizen to sue anyone who "aids or abets" in an abortion after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, or about six weeks into pregnancy.
Trigger laws will also go into effect in Idaho and North Dakota on Friday.
Britny Eubank on social media: Twitter
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- Austin doctor shares monkeypox insights as students start back on college campuses | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-trigger-law-abortion-restrictions/269-41f45d2e-8b61-4028-95f3-8ecf3c409fc4 | 2022-08-25T13:37:53 | 1 | https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/texas/texas-trigger-law-abortion-restrictions/269-41f45d2e-8b61-4028-95f3-8ecf3c409fc4 |
SALINA, Kan. (KSNW) – An overturned cement truck south of Salina caused some traffic delays on Thursday.
Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner said the truck overturned on southbound Interstate 135 near Water Well Road.
The highway in the area is undergoing repairs.
If you are driving in that area, you are asked to use caution as troopers are helping workers upright the rolled truck.
KanDrive.org has the latest regarding traffic incidents, winter road conditions, traffic cameras, and active and planned construction. | https://www.ksn.com/news/local/cement-truck-overturns-south-of-salina/ | 2022-08-25T13:37:55 | 0 | https://www.ksn.com/news/local/cement-truck-overturns-south-of-salina/ |
Tips sought on suspect in non-fatal shooting at Detroit gas station
Detroit — Police are asking the public for help to find a man wanted in connection with a non-fatal shooting last week at a gas station on the city's west side.
The shooting happened at about midnight last Thursday at a BP Gas Station in the 17100 block of West Eight Mile Road near Grand River Avenue.
Investigators said the victim, a 23-year-old man, exited the store and walked to his vehicle.
Two other men also exited the store and fired shots at the victim, according to police. The two suspects then fled in a black Ford Fusion with the license plate number EBP-4779.
Officials said the victim was taken to a hospital and treated for a non-life-threatening
injury.
Detectives have identified one of the suspects involved in the incident, they said.
Police are looking for a man who was wearing a black hat, a white T-shirt, and black pants.
Anyone with information about the suspect or the shooting should call the Detroit Police Department’s Eighth Precinct at (313) 596-5840 or Crime Stoppers of Michigan at 1 (800) SPEAK-UP. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2022/08/25/tips-sought-suspect-non-fatal-shooting-detroit-gas-station/7892527001/ | 2022-08-25T13:43:26 | 1 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2022/08/25/tips-sought-suspect-non-fatal-shooting-detroit-gas-station/7892527001/ |
Feds charge Flint rapper Cliff Mac in murder-for-hire plot
Flint rapper Cliff Mac has been indicted in connection with a murder-for-hire plot and prosecutors Thursday said he offered to pay a hitman $10,000 to kill a Sterling Heights woman.
The rapper, whose real name is Clifton E. Terry III, 31, was charged with conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire resulting in personal injury, murder-for-hire resulting in personal injury, and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Prosecutors say Terry solicited Grand Rapids resident Andre Sims, 25, to try to kill the woman in November 2020. Sims, who is awaiting charges in federal court, drove to the woman's home and fired as many as eight gunshots as she approached her vehicle, according to the indictment.
The woman survived, and Terry is accused of picking up the alleged hitman at a nearby apartment complex. Terry later agreed to pay $2,500 for the unsuccessful hit, which was recorded in a surveillance video that went viral.
Terry is the latest rapper charged with a violent crime in federal court in Eastern Michigan in the last few years, including members of the Seven Mile Bloods street gang in Detroit.
The gang and federal prosecution was chronicled in the serial narrative "Death by Instagram" in The Detroit News.
Come back to www.detroitnews.com for more on this developing story | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/08/25/feds-charge-flint-rapper-cliff-mac-murder-hire-plot/7892676001/ | 2022-08-25T13:43:32 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/08/25/feds-charge-flint-rapper-cliff-mac-murder-hire-plot/7892676001/ |
Isle Royale wolf population surges after nearly dying off
Traverse City — Isle Royale National Park's gray wolf population has reached 28, a dramatic comeback after the species nearly disappeared from the Lake Superior island chain, researchers said Wednesday.
Health problems from inbreeding caused a die-off that left only two wolves a few years ago, leading park officials to authorize an airlift of mainland replacements. Wolves play a crucial role in balancing the island ecosystem by preying on moose, which browse heavily on balsam fir and other plants.
“Mission accomplished. The goals have been met," said John Vucetich, a Michigan Technological University biologist who has long studied the relationship between the island's wolves and moose.
Nineteen wolves were brought to the park in 2018 and 2019 from Minnesota, Ontario and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Some died and one found its way back to the mainland. But at least five litters of pups have been born to those that settled into their new surroundings.
This year's population is the highest since 2006, when it totaled 30, said Sarah Hoy, a research assistant professor and animal ecologist at Michigan Tech.
A team of scientists surveyed the wolves and moose from the air last winter, resuming one of the world's longest running field studies of a predator and prey. It was canceled in 2021 to protect the research team from exposure to COVID-19.
“The wolves were doing everything we'd expect them to be doing,” Hoy said. “We found them killing moose, exhibiting courtship and mating behavior, defending their territories. It was great to see.”
They appear to have divided into two packs, one occupying the main island's western section and the other the eastern side.
The moose population was estimated at 1,346 — a decline of 28% from the previous total of 1,876 in 2020, according to a report Hoy, Vucetich and biologist Rolf Peterson prepared from the excursion.
Moose numbers boomed during the wolf drop-off but have plunged since. Predation accounted for nearly 9% of deaths over the past year. Other factors were blood-sucking tick infestations and malnutrition caused by a shortage of balsam fir, the moose's primary winter food source.
Because their long-term average population is around 1,000, the recent slump won't be cause for concern unless it continues at a similar rate for several more years, Hoy said.
Scientists believe the island's first moose swam to Isle Royale, which is part of Michigan but closer to Minnesota, around the turn of the 20th century. Wolves arrived in the late 1940s, apparently crossing ice bridges from Minnesota or Ontario.
Moose provide an ample food supply for the wolves, which in turn help keep moose numbers in check.
Researchers believe other wolves have migrated to the park at times, helping refresh the gene pool. But as climate change heats Lake Superior's surface, ice bridges are forming less often.
That could create an occasional future need for more mainland wolves to prevent more drop-offs from inbreeding, Vucetich said, although the population is in good shape for now.
Another question is whether park vegetation will recover to previous levels as moose numbers fall, he said.
“Ïf it doesn't, it means we won't be able to have as many moose and in the long term that would be trouble for wolves," Vucetich said. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/08/25/isle-royale-wolf-population-surges-after-nearly-dying-off/7892304001/ | 2022-08-25T13:43:38 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2022/08/25/isle-royale-wolf-population-surges-after-nearly-dying-off/7892304001/ |
LINDALE, Texas — When David Herndon, a pastor in Lindale, found out one of his members was fighting a losing battle against raccoons on her property, the avid hunter decided to step in. What unfolded next was a surprise.
“Then my wife said, 'one of them was white,'" Herndon said. "And I said, “‘Excuse me?’”
It was an albino raccoon, which is very rare.
“You only have a one in 750,000 chance of seeing one,” Herndon said.
It took a few tries to catch the unmasked bandit. The key trick to lure them in is with food they enjoy like cat food or sweet bread, he said.
“My wife on Monday had just made a loaf of zucchini bread," Herndon said. "I managed to get her to give me a piece of that zucchini bread and behold, that raccoon jumped right in that little cage.”
Herndon placed one piece of the bread at the trap's entrance and one deep inside the cage. Once the raccoon came in and stepped on the trigger trap in front of the bread, the trap door closed and secured the animal inside.
“I think it was the zucchini bread. I really do," Herndon laughed.
Trapped and out of harms way, the hunter surrendered the raccoon to a nearby animal sanctuary. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/an-albino-raccoon-was-captured-in-lindale-by-a-pastor/501-006b0fc7-eca8-467a-aad6-b7bdbb1e70f3 | 2022-08-25T13:49:06 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/an-albino-raccoon-was-captured-in-lindale-by-a-pastor/501-006b0fc7-eca8-467a-aad6-b7bdbb1e70f3 |
SAN ANTONIO — A former teacher at Southside ISD was sentenced Tuesday to 20 years in prison on child pornography charges.
56-year-old Mark Rodriguez was sentenced this week.
Three devices were found at his home during a search that contained approximately 4,700 images and 384 videos of child pornography
“During his sentencing, Rodriguez acknowledged that his job was to be a protector, not a predator, of children,” said Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristy Callahan. “He failed. The justice system has now held him accountable. We are proud of the work our office and law enforcement partners do to combat this blight on our communities.”
“HSI San Antonio, remains committed in identifying individuals distributing child pornography on the internet,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “Identifying and investigating those who prey on our most vulnerable population, especially those individuals that hold positions of public trust, remains a top priority for HSI. Today’s sentence sends a clear message that there will be severe consequences for those who exploit children in anyway and HSI will continue to dedicate our resources to identify these individuals and bring them to justice”
In addition to the prison sentence, Rodriguez was ordered to pay $70,000 dollars in restitution to 14 victims. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/former-southside-isd-teacher-sentenced-san-antonio-texas-school-children/273-7893c597-3206-4096-9edb-e7a0eef81705 | 2022-08-25T13:49:09 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/former-southside-isd-teacher-sentenced-san-antonio-texas-school-children/273-7893c597-3206-4096-9edb-e7a0eef81705 |
SAN ANTONIO — When searching for your next job, salaries and benefits are often the most focused on details.
But what about the quality of a would be employer?
New rankings from Forbes show which companies are the best to work for.
Some local companies made the top 100 list for the state of Texas.
We want to emphasize these are in-state ranking, which is an honor nonetheless.
It's not just a handful of companies making Texas' best list on Forbes, our local government and some educators also made this list.
The best employer in all of San Antonio, according to the Forbes list, is UTSA.
In fact the university cracked the top 5 in all of Texas, ranked over H-E-B.
The work of the administration, educators, staff and student is paying off.
Forbes says 70% of UTSA alumni found jobs or pursued post-grad education within six months.
The City of San Antonio came in a number 63.
The city currently employs more than 13,000 workers from the parks department to our vital staff that makes our city function.
One of our local school districts also made the top 100.
That honor belongs to North East ISD.
Under their superintendent, the district made its way back on to the list for the first time since 2018.
And the rest of the best in San Antonio, we saw a few usual achievers like, H-E-B, which was ninth on the in-state list, Frost and USAA.
Coming in 12th on the Forbes list is the UT Health and Science Center.
Baptist Health also represented our city as a recognized healthcare leader.
Check out the full Forbes list here. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/new-ranking-from-forbes-shows-best-places-to-work-in-country-san-antonio-texas-work/273-540c27cc-ea1d-49f6-b716-624faee9c58c | 2022-08-25T13:49:09 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/new-ranking-from-forbes-shows-best-places-to-work-in-country-san-antonio-texas-work/273-540c27cc-ea1d-49f6-b716-624faee9c58c |
GRAPEVINE, Texas — Children in foster care endure so much in their short lives, but one of the hardest is the terrible feeling of loneliness.
In today’s Wednesday’s Child, WFAA meets two brothers in need of parents with an abundance of love and patience.
Could that be you?
After weeks of building excitement, today brothers Logan and Raylan got to play together at Legoland in Grapevine.
"I'm happy and excited," said 6-year-old Raylan.
He is proud of the way he treats others.
"I help them when they fall down and whenever they can't reach anything and I can reach it, then I help them" said Raylan.
Logan, 13, has a smile he hopes will melt the heart of a potential forever family.
"I want a mom. I want a dad. I want my brother to be in the picture too," he said about Raylan.
These children shouldn't have a care in the world, but instead, they are trying to pick up the pieces of their broken hearts. The boys are separated in foster care and it hurts.
Logan told WFAA the sadness of not living with his little brother on top of moving from placement to placement is stressful.
"If I have to move away again, I'm going to feel like the Titanic. You know how the Titanic hit ice and it sunk. That's how I would feel like," said Logan.
Raylan said his biggest worry is that he won't get to live with his older brother again.
Their CPS caseworker, Amanda Swink, is working hard to get them adopted together.
"It weighs on me a great deal," she said.
Swink has been Raylan and Logan's CPS caseworker the four years they've been in foster care.
"Placement has been difficult to find for the two of them together," she said.
She thinks about their situation daily.
"I just love them so much and I want them to have what they deserve," Swink said tearfully. "They need a loving family who will love them, and care for them, and nurture them, and have patience and give them the ability to thrive together."
After years of turmoil, abuse and separation, Logan and Raylan want to create new memories with a family who loves and accepts them together.
"I don't want to be far from each other again," said Logan.
Wiping away tears, their caseworker begs potential families not to sign up to adopt Logan and Raylan unless they are fully committed.
"I would really like the family to not make false promises," she said. "They deserve to wake up and be playing together and just live life together. They deserve each other."
For more information on how to adopt Raylan and Logan, please send all approved home studies to LaQueena Warren at LaQueena.Warren@dfps.texas.gov. Please remember to include Logan and Raylan's names within the subject line.
If you're not licensed, please visit adoptchildren.org to find out more information on how to become licensed to foster and/or adopt or contact LaQueena Warren at 817-304-1272.
If you would like to read more Wednesday's Child stories, click here. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/outreach/wfaa-wednesdays-child-logan-raylan-want-to-be-adopted-together/287-bed5b5f6-4ee5-4727-8c6a-ce2c11ac77ad | 2022-08-25T13:49:09 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/outreach/wfaa-wednesdays-child-logan-raylan-want-to-be-adopted-together/287-bed5b5f6-4ee5-4727-8c6a-ce2c11ac77ad |
BEAUMONT, Texas — Cats may have nine lives but one Port Arthur dog appears to at least have two after he was rescued from an empty reservoir at the city water treatment plant Tuesday.
Workers at the city's water treatment plant along Texas Highway 73 called the Port Arthur Fire Department after spotting the pooch at the bottom of an empty concrete reservoir on Tuesday according to battalion chief Jeremy Holland.
Firefighters from Engine 6 responded to the treatment facility for the rescue Holland told 12News on Wednesday morning.
The dog was at the bottom of the open reservoir about 20 feet below ground level Holland said.
Photos released by the City of Port Arthur showed a firefighter climbing down a ladder and climbing back up carrying the medium sized dog.
The dog was fine and was adopted by a staff member from the water treatment facility Holland said.
Dog rescued by Port Arthur firefighters
He did not mention if they knew how the dog got into the reservoir.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/port-arthur-firefighters-rescue-dog/502-9e9c7686-4bd2-4798-bbe6-9c49a114052d | 2022-08-25T13:49:29 | 1 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/port-arthur-firefighters-rescue-dog/502-9e9c7686-4bd2-4798-bbe6-9c49a114052d |
DALLAS — First came the heat -- 100 degrees by early June.
Then came 67 straight days with no rain.
Fires broke out across North Texas and quickly spread across a region battling severe drought.
Throughout July and into early August, tens of thousands of acres burned.
A grass fire quickly spread through a dry, overgrown field in Balch Springs on July 26, damaging dozens of homes.
Then, in a 24-hour period from Aug. 23 to Aug. 24, more than a foot of rain fell in that very same city.
It felt like extreme weather whiplash. But has it always been this way?
“We definitely get extreme weather occasionally in Texas,” said state climatologist John Nielsen-Gammon. “Some of the most extreme weather in the U.S. happens here, particularly at the wet end.”
Nielsen-Gammon is also a professor at Texas A&M University.
“We’re sort of at a good spot, unfortunately, because we’re sitting above the western edge of the Gulf of Mexico and a lot of tropical moisture tends to feed northward across Texas.”
Instability can feed thunderstorms that produce some pretty impressive rainfall rates, Nielsen-Gammon said.
“If the weather patterns work out and the rain keeps falling at the same place, you can get these sort of astronomical totals.”
During Hurricane Harvey -- the fifth anniversary of which falls on Thursday -- about 60 inches of rain fell in some of Texas’s coastal cities.
And Texans don’t have to search too far back in their memories to conjure up the awful pain from February 2022, when the entire state was under a freeze warning and power failed.
Heat, drought, fire, flood and a freeze – it’s a lot for residents of this state to manage.
But recent extremes don’t surprise a scientist who’s studied Texas’s extreme pasts.
“It’s certainly very rare, but it is within the realm of what has happened in Texas and what can happen in the future,” Nielson-Gammon said.
He’s been the state climatologist for 22 years.
His office issues forecasts, like an assessment of historic and future trends of extreme weather published by the nonprofit Texas 2036.
The report predicts Texas’s average annual surface temperature by 2036 will be 1.8 degrees warmer compared to the average from 1991 to 2020.
The number of 100-degree days is predicted to nearly double by 2036.
Also according to Nielsen-Gammon’s report, extreme precipitation will increase in intensity on average statewide by two to three percent compared to what fell from 2001 to 2020.
It’s difficult to say which extreme presents the biggest risk for Texas because they are all “different phenomenon with different effects,” he said.
“The challenge really is to, on the one hand, figure out which extreme cases we really do have to worry about. And, on the other hand, get people to worry about them before they happen rather than after they happen,” he said.
“Some people thing climate change is not real. Some people think climate change is making all types of extreme weather worse. The truth is somewhere in the middle.” | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/record-heat-destructive-fires-severe-drought-flood-extreme-texas-weather/287-d9c23c60-a4f7-4b9d-a9c4-63ad38eaff84 | 2022-08-25T13:49:35 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/record-heat-destructive-fires-severe-drought-flood-extreme-texas-weather/287-d9c23c60-a4f7-4b9d-a9c4-63ad38eaff84 |
CARLISLE, Pa. — The 40th annual "Corvettes at Carlisle" show is bringing thousands of the classic American sportscar to Central Pa. over the weekend.
The show is the largest in the world for Corvettes.
The Corvette came out in 1953 and has since gone through eight generations of production to become the modern C8.
'Vette fans come from across the country for the event; some begin the day well before the event even officially begins.
"Mark has been here since 5 a.m., just hanging out with his car," Mike Garland of Carlisle Events said. "And that really kind of showcases the passion and the enthusiasm that the Corvette owners have. They come out early, they have a smile on their face when they get here, they have a smile on their face when they leave, and his car is one of probably 5,000 plus that will be on the grounds throughout the weekend."
Corvette enthusiasts also have the chance to buy, sell, and trade original and new auto parts, with thousands of vendors taking part in the show’s flea market.
Other activities include autocross, exhaust contests, seminars, and a Corvette clinic.
The show runs Thursday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults, and free for kids 12 and under. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/corvettes-at-carlisle-american-sportscar-show/521-1d4aef9d-4ff1-42bb-8953-b6352b0168ce | 2022-08-25T13:50:49 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/corvettes-at-carlisle-american-sportscar-show/521-1d4aef9d-4ff1-42bb-8953-b6352b0168ce |
Rhode Islanders' life expectancy dropped. Here's how it compares to the rest of the U.S.
Life expectancy fell in Rhode Island in 2020 as the COVID pandemic claimed 1,933 lives here, but the state fared better than the nation as a whole.
In Rhode Island, the life expectancy fell from 79.5 in 2019 to 78.2 in 2020, according to a report this week from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That's calculated as how long a person born that year can expect to live, on average.
At the same time, the life expectancy for the nation fell from 78.8 to 77.0.
Life expectancy around the country dropped in 2020
All 50 states showed a decrease in life expectancy, from 0.2 years — about two-and-a-half months — in Hawaii to 3.0 years in New York.
Rhode Island's drop of 1.3 years was the 10th smallest decrease in the nation, but was the third biggest in the six-state New England region. Only Massachusetts and Connecticut had larger decreases.
Population change:COVID-19 pandemic leads to population decline in RI and much of the U.S. Here's why.
Predict, prevent pandemics:Imagine there was a way to stop a deadly disease outbreak
New Hampshire and Maine, in that order, had the smallest life expectancy decreases in the region, and were also the second and third smallest decreases nationally.
Rhode Island had the 13th longest life expectancy in 2019 among the 50 states and maintained that ranking in 2020.
Maine saw the biggest jump in the region, going from the 28th longest life expectancy to the 14th.
Baby bust not boom:RI's record-shattering baby shortage could spell trouble for state's economy
Even though Massachusetts saw their residents' life expectancy shrink by 1.4 years, it still maintained its overall ranking as the fourth longest life expectancy in the nation.
Not surprisingly, women have longer life expectancies than men, ranging from 3.9 years longer in Utah to 6.6 years longer in Mississippi. Rhode Island women have a 5.4-year-longer life expectancy than Rhode Island men, the 21st smallest gap. | https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/life-expectancy-rhode-island-residents-2020/7884575001/ | 2022-08-25T13:53:05 | 0 | https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/life-expectancy-rhode-island-residents-2020/7884575001/ |
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Every morning, NBC 5 Today is dedicated to delivering you positive local stories of people doing good, giving back and making a real change in our community. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/something-good/fort-worth-isd-congratulates-students-who-graduated-during-summer-school/3056653/ | 2022-08-25T13:59:43 | 1 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/something-good/fort-worth-isd-congratulates-students-who-graduated-during-summer-school/3056653/ |
A Texas man was sentenced to six months in federal prison Tuesday for threatening a Maryland doctor who has been a prominent advocate for COVID-19 vaccines, a federal prosecutor said.
Scott Eli Harris, 52, of Aubrey, Texas, pleaded guilty in February to threats transmitted by interstate communication. U.S. Attorney for Maryland Erek L. Barron announced the sentence, which will be followed by three years of supervised release, in a news release Wednesday.
"While we are all entitled to our own opinion, no one has the right to threaten the life of someone because of race, national origin, or because of holding different views," Barron said in a statement. "Threats like these will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
According to Harris' plea agreement and statements made in connection with the plea hearing, Harris sent a threatening message from his cellphone to the doctor. Court documents identify the doctor only as "Dr. L. W., who had been a vocal proponent of the COVID-19 vaccine."
Harris' message included violent statements, such as: "Never going to take your wonder drug. My 12 gauge promises I won't. .. I can't wait for the shooting to start." Harris' message also made reference to the doctor's Asian American background and national origin.
"Mr. Harris has expressed deep and sincere remorse for his actions, and he has provided the U.S. Attorney's Office with a heartfelt apology letter to share with the victim," Assistant Federal Public Defender Cynthia A. Frezzo said in an email, noting that his arrest and supervision have allowed Harris, a disabled veteran, to get mental health care he needed. "At the time of the offense, Mr. Harris was in the throes of undiagnosed, service-related mental illness."
They are disappointed that prosecutors requested incarceration, but Harris "understands the seriousness of his actions and why the Court felt the need to impose a period of incarceration to deter others from engaging in similar conduct," Frezzo said. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/texas-man-gets-6-months-in-prison-for-threats-to-maryland-vaccine-advocate/3056696/ | 2022-08-25T13:59:59 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/texas-man-gets-6-months-in-prison-for-threats-to-maryland-vaccine-advocate/3056696/ |
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News from around the state of Texas. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/uvalde-cisd-board-votes-unanimously-to-fire-police-chief-pete-arredondo-after-school-shooting/3056648/ | 2022-08-25T14:00:06 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/uvalde-cisd-board-votes-unanimously-to-fire-police-chief-pete-arredondo-after-school-shooting/3056648/ |
In August of 2018, 2 inches of rain fell in 45 minutes on Woodhouse Mesa, just above Wupatki Pueblo in Wupatki National Monument. The 500-year flood sent a slurry of rock and water down onto the visitor center and housing area, and near the pueblo itself.
Such extreme weather events are becoming more common in the Southwest and across the country as our climate changes. And while some are true headline-worthy disasters, at Wupatki, it’s the smaller, slower, often invisible actions — the grain-by-grain, rock-by-rock disintegration that’s of concern.
These climate-related effects are the reason behind a major project addressing the risk and vulnerability of the pueblo and other archaeological sites in the monument north of Flagstaff.
Working in partnership with the National Park Service, the University of Pennsylvania recently received a $1.3 million Getty Foundation grant to stabilize the stone and mortar walls of Wupatki Pueblo so they might better withstand destructive natural forces.
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With fieldwork starting this summer, the three-year program has professors, students and Indigenous crews working side by side assessing the pueblo’s specific vulnerabilities and recommending sustainable methods to slow deterioration and help preserve the site for years to come.
Frank Matero, University of Pennsylvania's director of the Center for Architectural Conservation, is the principal investigator on the project. He points out that restoration of Southwestern sites has always focused on detecting only the hand of the original builder.
He notes that visitors often ask, "How much of this is original?" They’re amazed to see a wood beam, a window lintel, even human fingerprints left in grout nearly a thousand years ago.
But modern methods are part of the project, too. A weather station has been installed beside the pueblo to record daily rainfall, snowfall and other seasonal data. Using laser technology and 3D models, Matero’s students have completed a rapid assessment of every wall in the dwelling.
“Not all walls are equal here,” he says, “and we’re trying to figure out which walls are more at risk to loss and deterioration and damage.”
Faculty and staff in civil engineering from the University of Minho in Portugal inject grout into cracks and joints where water has found paths to erode the material. The new grout is a more natural mix of local soils, with limestone and salt additions.
As rain events like the one in 2018 become more intense, Wupatki's earthen systems of rock and soil can be overwhelmed. Water, notes Matero, rather than heat and drought, is the enemy here.
Nine hundred years ago, the builders of the multi-room pueblo were no strangers to the vagaries of weather and climate. As dry-land farmers, they constantly adapted to changing nuances in their environment.
When Wupatki became a national monument in 1934, the Park Service was tasked with preserving it and keeping it safe for visitors. Over the past century, various stabilization methods have been tried; some seemed to work, at least for a while. Portland cement was an early favorite strengthener, followed by other materials with amendments and additives not always environmentally or structurally friendly.
Today we are seeing a return to softer natural materials.
As a Native ancestral site, Wupatki holds deep meaning for a number of Southwestern cultural groups. That recognition has led to incorporating traditional knowledge and Indigenous viewpoints. To that end, young men and women with the Ancestral Lands Conservation Corps are key participants in the new grant-funded program. Crews from Zuni (and possibly other tribes in the future) are gaining field experience in stabilization and repair, and learning of possible professional careers in preservation and interpretation.
Matthew Cooeyate sits in a shaded corner of a small room in Wupatki, taking a welcome break from the heat of the day. He wears a hardhat, bandana headband, and sage green T-shirt spotted with red dirt. The 30-year-old Ancestral Lands crew leader is a member of the Zuni Pueblo.
To him, this is far more than just a job.
“Coming back to these dwellings,” he says, “you get that energy. Like the people are still here ... you can feel their presence when the clouds come and the rains. You just get the feeling of your ancestors saying, ‘Thank you.’”
Rose Houk, Flagstaff writer, always finds trips to Wupatki amazing and inspiring.
The NPS/USFS Roving Rangers volunteer through a unique agreement between the Flagstaff-area national monuments and the Coconino National Forest to provide interpretive ranger walks and talks in the Flagstaff area each summer.
Submit questions for the Ask a Ranger weekly column to askaranger@gmail.com. | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/ask-a-ranger-the-hand-of-the-original-builder-wupatki-pueblo/article_8cf57ecc-2343-11ed-8100-5b5245b79659.html | 2022-08-25T14:03:31 | 0 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/ask-a-ranger-the-hand-of-the-original-builder-wupatki-pueblo/article_8cf57ecc-2343-11ed-8100-5b5245b79659.html |
Recent and projected expenditures related to post-fire flooding have overtaxed the Flagstaff Stormwater Fund to the point that if nothing changes, the fund is expected go negative in 2026.
Flagstaff will be forced to draw upon other funds and cash reserves to meet stormwater management needs if efforts are not made. The Flagstaff stormwater management in addressing the problem has issued a notice of intention to raise rates at the beginning of 2023.
The full magnitude of the rate increase has yet to be determined, and will depend largely on whether the Stormwater Fund can receive additional backing through passage of a citizen GO bond slated to appear on the Nov. 8 ballot.
The status of the Stormwater Fund and the proposed notice of intention to increase rates was presented to Flagstaff City Council during Tuesday’s work session. During the presentation, Ed Schenk, the stormwater manager, explained that the “fire and flood events we’ve seen over the last few years” have made “a lot of Flagstaff’s current stormwater infrastructure insufficient” -- as seen by recent flooding associated with overloaded culverts within the city.
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Capital improvements are needed in multiple areas across the city, including Schultz Creek, Spruce Wash, the Rio De Flag and likely “future projects”
Along with the need for capital infrastructural improvements, recent flooding has also showed that the stormwater management division needs to “increase their level of service” through expanded staffing, equipment, master planning, preseason mitigation and more. According to Schenk, additional operating costs incurred from fire and floods is expected to be $600,000 in 2024, and the “projected annual need” for capital improvements will tally $12.7 million annually for the next six years.
“At the moment, it’s not a sustainable budget,” Schenk said.
The analysis was corroborated by city consultant Sanjay Gaur of Water Resources Economics, who projected that given the current needs and revenues, the Stormwater Fund would “go negative” by 2026.
“Current revenues are not sufficient,” Gaur said. “We’re OK for a few years, but we’re going in the wrong direction.”
The proposed solution to the troubling trend is an increase to stormwater fees paid by Flagstaff residents. Fees are disbursed at a rate based on Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) -- which is considered to be 1,500 square feet of “impervious” surface. The current rate in Flagstaff is $3.74/ERU, so a property owner responsible for one ERU would pay $3.74 to the Stormwater Fund each month.
After the presentation, Councilmember Jim McCarthy expressed the opinion that it seemed “philosophically” fair that stormwater improvements should be funded by a rate increase, not a bond.
“Flood mitigation costs should be paid for by stormwater fees as opposed to property taxes,” McCarthy said. “A given property that has more impervious surfaces -- and causes more trouble for the city -- that property would pay more. Property value has nothing to do directly with the amount of impact that property would have.”
Council ultimately voted to approve the notice of intention.
The last rate increase took place in 2019, Schenk said, and the current rate in Flagstaff is “fairly low by national standards.” Schenk added that the 2019 rate increase provided $32 million for major capital improvement projects and $600,000 annually for general capital improvements.
It’s unclear how much the proposed increase would raise rates, as it largely depends on whether the Stormwater Fund receives support from the citizen GO bond.
“If the voters approve it, then some of these capital projects will be funded by property tax revenue,” Gaur said. “We would not double-charge.”
But if the bond fails, all necessary capital improvements would be funded by the increased storm water fee.
The proposed rate increase will be further analyzed and reported to water commission meetings in September, followed by a period of community outreach leading up to discussion during the Oct. 25 city council meeting, a Nov. 15 public hearing and first read, a Nov. 29 second read and a proposed effective date of Jan. 1. | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/without-change-flagstaff-stormwater-fund-will-go-negative-by-2026/article_06b1af94-23ec-11ed-9087-4f4b8c042379.html | 2022-08-25T14:03:37 | 1 | https://azdailysun.com/news/local/without-change-flagstaff-stormwater-fund-will-go-negative-by-2026/article_06b1af94-23ec-11ed-9087-4f4b8c042379.html |
The Beemiller name goes way back in Northern Arizona University football history, where it is not only respected, but also decorated.
Harrison Beemiller continued his father's legacy alongside his brother Heath when they joined the Lumberjacks in 2019. Their father, Vince, played football for Northern Arizona from 1984 to 1988, earning All-American honors as an offensive lineman.
Harrison earned his spot as a starting linebacker, highlighting his playing career with three All-Big Sky Conference honors. In Northern Arizona's upset at Arizona last season, he totaled a career-high 12 tackles to go with 4.5 tackles for loss, tying for second-most in a single game since 1970.
"Flagstaff has been amazing ever since I was a kid. My dad went here in the '80s, so I was always coming up to NAU games and always coming up to Flagstaff," Harrison said. "It's always been so beautiful and it's the perfect place to be for college. That's why I've stayed as long as I have."
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Harrison transferred to Northern Arizona from South Dakota Mines, where he played from 2017 to 2018 at defensive back. When he got to Flagstaff he was transitioned into linebacker, where his hard work and football IQ really stood out to the coaching staff.
"I think the glaring thing that gives Harrison a head start is his football knowledge. I didn't totally know he had a passion for it until after his first year," said Lumberjacks defensive coordinator Jerry Partridge. "He had never played linebacker before, but he listened to his coaches and continued to learn and put in the work."
Harrison is now a first-year defensive graduate assistant for the Lumberjacks, working primarily with the linebacker position.
He has quickly transferred his leadership skills and knowledge from playing to coaching, a seemingly easy transition while working with former teammates who know him well on and off the field.
"It's a hard job when you get done playing with those guys and now you got to be their coach; sometimes it can be hard," Partridge said. "Harrison is so well respected by the whole defense. They all love him and listen to him, and know he knows what he's talking about. They know how hard he played."
The respect comes naturally for players whom Beemiller impacts, but he knows he has to earn it regularly.
"Attention to detail and doing things right the first time, it's important to do that as a player, and I'm learning that doing that as a coach is extremely important, too. When you do that, your players also follow the same direction as you and they do those little things right," Harrison said.
Just a little less than a year after playing in his final game as a Lumberjack, Harrison is now focused on the coaching aspects of the game, but still shares the same goal -- a Big Sky championship.
As the team enters fall camp ahead of the 2022 season, the Beemiller family still stands strong in their support for Lumberjacks football.
"I'm extremely thankful for my family's support, especially with our background here and just how NAU has accepted my family, the time that my dad had here and the time that I had here as a student as well as my brother," Harrison said. "There's nothing negative we can say about NAU or Flagstaff, and I really appreciate how coach (Chris) Ball has taken me in as a family member as well."
The Beemillers are still a presence, coming to every home game. Harrison is aiming to help the family's legacy live on.
Harrison said his father inspired him to turn to coaching after years of playing for him in youth football and watching how he touched the lives of other players around him.
"As a coach, my dad inspires me. He was my youth coach growing up and early on I knew that's exactly what I wanted to do," he said. "I wanted to have the same impact on kids that he had on me growing up as a coach as well as my father." | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/beemiller-transitions-from-linebacker-to-graduate-assistant-coach/article_f0e2da90-231d-11ed-a563-8bcc325fcf94.html | 2022-08-25T14:03:43 | 1 | https://azdailysun.com/sports/local/beemiller-transitions-from-linebacker-to-graduate-assistant-coach/article_f0e2da90-231d-11ed-a563-8bcc325fcf94.html |
We are well into our first round of interviews with candidates running for the state Legislature.
Join us today at noon for an interview with Democrat Priya Sundareshan and Republican Stan Caine. They are running for the state Senate seat in Legislative District 18.
We invite readers to attend the interviews, which will be conducted via Zoom. Email sbrown@tucson.com if you need the Zoom information emailed to you. Here is the invitation to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85030559366?pwd=MGtKTGZiMUhEancrejYrZXdKVWU2dz09
Meeting ID: 850 3055 9366
Passcode: 193869 | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/join-us-today-for-interview-with-ld-18-senate-candidates/article_bcc384ca-23cd-11ed-b6c7-1783c1e2cccd.html | 2022-08-25T14:06:27 | 1 | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/join-us-today-for-interview-with-ld-18-senate-candidates/article_bcc384ca-23cd-11ed-b6c7-1783c1e2cccd.html |
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
The Aug. 18 guest opinion “Let’s stand together for health care affordability” by Pam Kehaly, president and CEO of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona, requires a reasoned response.
The premise of her article is valid in that she points out that “health care has reached a critical tipping point.” Kehaly correctly states that “rising costs are unsustainable, and it is time to correct course. Families should be able to meet their health care needs without fear of facing crushing debt.”
As a retired family doctor with over 50 years of practice, I am a member of PNHP (Physicians for a National Health Program). Our group recognizes why we rank last among six other industrialized countries on measure of quality, efficiency and access to care. The main reason is that the citizens of these countries — Australia, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand and the UK — have access to government-run care paid for by taxes. Profiting from providing basic health care does not happen. In my practice, I frequently saw evidence of delayed care due to anticipated costs.
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Administrative expenses of private insurance companies in the U.S. account for 15%-25% of total health care expenditures, amounting to $600 billion to $1 trillion per year. If you have health insurance, that is the percentage of your premium that does not pay for health care. By comparison, Medicare, the U.S. system for those 65 and older, operates at 2%-3% of administrative costs.
Proposals for a Medicare for All system in the U.S. have failed primarily because lobbyists for our private health insurance and pharmaceutical companies have influenced our senators and representatives. The last thing they want to see is a universal, not-for-profit system here.
Kehaly points out that her insurance company has an obligation to ensure that “we are good stewards of every health care dollar” and they have become advocates for families and individuals because “it is the right thing to do.” These claims ring hollow when our country has nearly 30 million uninsured and more “underinsured.” Policies with high deductibles also represent a barrier to access to care. If the first $1,000-$4,000 of medical expenses each year comes out of your pocket, it is easy to understand the reluctance to seek care. It is not surprising that medical expenses are the leading cause of bankruptcies in our country.
I would urge readers to learn more about why the richest country in the world, which spends more on health care than any other country, ranks so low in life expectancy, maternal mortality, access to care and other comparisons. If you agree, let your legislators know the time has come to “correct course” and support Medicare for All.
Howie Wolf, M.D. is a retired family doctor with over 50 years of practice. He’s a past president of Colorado Academy of Family Physicians. He lives in Oro Valley. | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/local-opinion-time-to-correct-course-on-health-care-access-affordability/article_73b41282-2237-11ed-9f91-83e7bbe19a27.html | 2022-08-25T14:06:33 | 0 | https://tucson.com/opinion/local/local-opinion-time-to-correct-course-on-health-care-access-affordability/article_73b41282-2237-11ed-9f91-83e7bbe19a27.html |
GALLOWAY – Stockton is touting its ranking in the top quartile on a list of best-value colleges and universities.
Money magazine published its “Best Colleges” list for 2022 in May and ranked Stockton University in 156th place out of 671 examined colleges and universities. Stockton has gradually improved its standing, which came in at 483rd place in 2015, according to a university news release issued Wednesday.
The list takes into account education quality, affordability and student outcomes according to the list posted on the Money website. It was designed to guide aspiring college applicants and their families who are concerned about the cost of college. The website indicates that the list was sponsored by College Ave Student Loans.
Stockton President Harvey Kesselman extoled the rise in the rankings as evidence of the university’s work to make high-quality education affordable and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. He had special praise for the Stockton Promise and Garden State Guarantee initiatives, which cover the difference between aid and grant totals and the cost of tuition and fees for qualifying students.
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“Our priority is to assure that every student has the opportunity to attend and successfully graduate from college,” Kesselman said in the university news release. “The value of a Stockton degree continues to grow because of our efforts to keep classes small and offer academic achievement programs that promote student success for all Stockton students.”
The list examined schools if they met certain criteria. These included having at least 500 undergraduate students; having an ability to provide reliable data to be analyzed; not being in financial distress; and meeting certain graduation-rate standards. Schools also had to have an acceptance rate of at least 20% at least once in the last three years.
The estimated full-price of Stockton for the 2022-2023 school year is $31,200, according to the magazine’s list. Sixty-three percent of students receive a grant to help pay those costs and when accounting for the average grant award, the full price drops to $21,700.
The Stockton news release also highlighted the university’s 17-to-1 student-faculty ratio and its graduation rate of 76%.
The national average for graduation rate, the release said, is only 57%. Stockton alumni average $51,729 in earnings in the years after graduation, which the university notes is 8% higher than the national average given on the College Scorecard from the U.S. Department of Education.
The list examined 24 factors over three categories.
The education-quality category accounted for 30% of a college’s overall score. Among the education-quality metrics examined were a school’s six-year graduation rate; freshmen standardized test scores; the share of accepted students that choose to enroll; student-to-faculty ratio; school financial conditions; and the share of federal Pell grant recipients who graduate.
Affordability accounted for 40% of the score. The list took into account the typical net-price of education to students; the typical net-price for different income brackets; how much debt students tend to have at graduation and how capable of students are at paying their debts.
The outcomes category, which account for the final 30% of the score, reflect several factors including graduates’ earnings, employment rate and economic mobility.
Other factors included in these three categories measure how well a college performs when accounting for the academic and economic conditions of the student body.
The data analysis was led by a partner firm Witlytic, although the Money editorial staff had final say on the rankings.
The first-ranked school on the list was the University of Michigan. The highest rank New Jersey school was the New Jersey Institute of Technology, which came in at 14th place. Rowan University came in the top half of the list at 240th place.
Robert Heinrich, the Stockton vice president for Enrollment Management, said that the university’s affordability and prioritization of students is stoking applicant interest. He said that nearly 10,000 first-year students applied to Stockton in 2022, amounting to a 55% increase over 2021.
“This tremendous growth is a direct result of our efforts to position our students for success,” Heinrich said in the news release.
The Stockton release on affordability comes after a major shift in the student-loan landscape.
President Joe Biden announced Wednesday that his administration was forgiving up to $10,000 of student debt for college attendees who make less than $125,000 per year and up to $20,000 for those who were Pell grant recipients. He also lowered student-loan repayments to 5% of discretionary income, increased the amount of income that is considered non-discretionary, covered unpaid monthly income payments and said all original loans balances of $12,000 or less would be forgiven after 10 years of payment. The moratorium on student-loan repayments is to be extended through 2022. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/stockton-touts-rise-in-rankings-of-best-value-colleges/article_c409fc0a-2459-11ed-9ab5-07d68d8fcee6.html | 2022-08-25T14:18:26 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/stockton-touts-rise-in-rankings-of-best-value-colleges/article_c409fc0a-2459-11ed-9ab5-07d68d8fcee6.html |
Tim Watson and Clyde Folsom sat in the Mainland Regional High School football coach’s office and joked about their coaching pasts after Tuesday’s practice.
Watson was the Cedar Creek head coach, while Folsom was the head man at West Deptford.
The current Mainland assistants clashed three times in the South Jersey Group II final with West Deptford winning in 2012 and 2016 and Cedar Creek winning in 2015.
On Tuesday, Folsom with a smile told Watson that a tight end pass Cedar Creek used to run was illegal because the tight end wore a tackle’s number.
“Clyde has a picture perfect memory for specific plays,” Watson said. “We each have some things we can hold over each other. He’ll tag some stuff when he’s teaching. He’ll say, “At Cedar Creek, you did this coach.’ It's been good.”
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Mainland opens the season 10 a.m. Friday against Egg Harbor Township in a Battle at the Beach showcase game at Ocean City.
High School football, like all sports, is a players’ game. But one of the reasons for optimism around the Mustangs as this season begins is the coaching staff.
“They bring a lot of things to the table,” Mainland senior running back Ja’Briel Mace said of Watson and Folsom. “It’s good to pick their brains. I think personally we have the best coaching staff in New Jersey.”
Mainland head coach Chuck Smith deserves credit for bringing Watson and Folsom in. Many head coaches might not be secure enough to have those two as assistants, considering what they have achieved. Smith said a few days ago he, Watson and Folsom met at 6 a.m. and spent about four hours discussing an upcoming game plan.
“We have a lot of knowledge between the three of us,” Smith said. “It’s great to bounce things off each other. Even when we don’t agree, you can see the reasoning and how it’s beneficial for the kids. There are no egos. There’s nobody out here trying to wear ‘the hat.’ Even myself, I’ll sit back and let Tim run the defense. I’ll sit back and let Clyde go over stuff with the offense. We all work very well with each other.”
Watson, who’s son Hunter is a Mainland junior linebacker and tight end, runs the Mainland defense and is in his third season with the Mustangs. He finished with a 71-27 record and two South Jersey Group II titles at Cedar Creek, stepping down after the 2019 season.
Meanwhile, Folsom is one of the top coaches in South Jersey history, retiring as a head coach after the 2017 season with a 261-73-5 record in 33 seasons at West Deptford and Bishop Eustace. After retiring from teaching at West Deptford, Folsom moved to Northfield.
“I’ve been begging Clyde to coach since he retired,” Smith said. “He’s a true football encyclopedia. He’s one of the few people I’ve met in my life who could coach every single position.”
Watching Folsom and Watson at a Mainland practice, it's easy to see what made them so successful.
The 6-foot-4 Watson is a larger than life personality and physical presence that takes over a football field.
“Coach Watson is a great coach and even a greater person,” Folsom said. “His demeanor, his passion for the game. His motivation is above and beyond most. We poke at each other once in a while with the different situations from the times we played. It brings back some of the events that took place and even some of the plays. It’s been a lot of fun.”
The Mainland coaching staff marvels at Folsom’s enthusiasm and energy. He coaches the linebackers and offensive line and is not above getting down in a three-point stance to demonstrate how a play should be made.
“I think that energy has been bottled up the past couple of years,” Watson said of Folsom. “He’s a 100 percent football guy. He loves hanging out with the kids.”
High school coaching staffs often see more of each other than their families during the season. There are countless late-night or early-morning video sessions plus meetings to develop a game plan for that week’s opponent.
They have to be devoted to a cause bigger than themselves. What makes the situation work for the Mustangs is that Smith, Watson and Folsom are all “Mainland guys.” Folsom graduated in 1975, Watson in 1993 and Smith in 1984.
“The school as well as the community is very rich in tradition,” Folsom said. “There’s been a lot of success over the years. To be able to come back home, live in the area, and coach at the school (you graduated from) and be able to give back is very rewarding.” | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/highschool/must-win-mainland-regional-football-team-forms-a-coaching-staff-of-rivals/article_d70b3970-2415-11ed-96be-ff3446ef7fee.html | 2022-08-25T14:18:34 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/highschool/must-win-mainland-regional-football-team-forms-a-coaching-staff-of-rivals/article_d70b3970-2415-11ed-96be-ff3446ef7fee.html |
Staffing shortage prompts Tehama County to close portion of its jail
Another North State county has been forced to close a portion of its jail because it can’t keep it staffed.
Three housing units in the Tehama County Jail have closed over the past two months, the sheriff’s office announced this week.
Twenty of the 33 correctional officer positions in the jail and Day Reporting Center are vacant, Capt. Dave Kain said.
Kain said the low staffing levels means the jail cannot be safely managed, so the three housing units, or 41 beds in the 227-bed jail, are no longer available for use.
“So, it’s gotten to the point where we basically are having mandatory overtime for our staff. Also, the current lieutenant who runs the jail works multiple overtime shifts to fill in so that we have the appropriate staffing,” Kain said.
In addition to closing the three housing units, the sheriff’s office is operating the remaining nine housing units at reduced capacity to ensure a safer environment for jail employees and inmates, Kain said.
What Kain has described mirrors the challenges Shasta County is having keeping its jail fully staffed.
Shasta County Sheriff Michael Johnson closed two floors in the jail in late July as staffing shortages reached a critical stage. Johnson told county supervisors a week after closing the floors that a recent survey of jail employees revealed they are burned out and morale is low.
Johnson has said that he is working on a package of pay increases and bonuses to offer jail employees to help with retention, which he said is the biggest challenge facing the jail.
This all comes as Shasta County moves forward with plans to build a bigger, new jail that could cost more than $500 million. The current jail in downtown Redding opened in 1984.
Some have wondered the value of more jail beds if the sheriff’s office doesn’t have the manpower to staff a larger facility.
Meanwhile, Kain said their main challenge is Tehama lags other counties in the area – Shasta, Butte, Yuba, Colusa, Glenn and Humboldt – in pay and benefits for correctional officers.
“Therefore, it is very difficult to retain employees when they can just leave and go to any adjacent county and make substantially more,” he said.
Kain did not specifically know how far behind other counties Tehama is in jail pay, but he noted the county is working on a salary survey to establish that.
“The sheriff’s office is hopeful that with the compensation and salary survey the county is doing that we find the appropriate pay for these positions and they (supervisors) can institute that,” he added.
The Tehama County jail was built in 1974 and an addition was built in 1994. Kain said the county has been working on another jail expansion for many years and "we are getting closer to breaking ground."
David Benda covers business, development and anything else that comes up for the USA TODAY Network in Redding. He also writes the weekly "Buzz on the Street" column. He’s part of a team of dedicated reporters that investigate wrongdoing, cover breaking news and tell other stories about your community. Reach him on Twitter @DavidBenda_RS or by phone at 1-530-338-8323. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today. | https://www.redding.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/staffing-shortage-prompts-tehama-county-close-portion-its-jail/7885860001/ | 2022-08-25T14:22:47 | 1 | https://www.redding.com/story/news/local/2022/08/25/staffing-shortage-prompts-tehama-county-close-portion-its-jail/7885860001/ |
Average daily flows
Snake River at Heise 9,379 cfs
Snake River at Blackfoot 2,388 cfs
Snake River at American Falls 9,735 cfs
Snake River at Milner 0 cfs
Little Wood River near Carey 211 cfs
Jackson Lake is 34% full.
Palisades Reservoir is 36% full.
American Falls Reservoir is 11% full.
Upper Snake River system is at 28% of capacity.
As of August 24. | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/average-daily-streamflows/article_701a8dc2-23c2-11ed-bb7c-7b42e3afd8ed.html | 2022-08-25T14:23:32 | 1 | https://magicvalley.com/news/local/average-daily-streamflows/article_701a8dc2-23c2-11ed-bb7c-7b42e3afd8ed.html |
BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A man was killed in a crash with a tractor-trailer late Wednesday night in Brooksville, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
It happened just after 11 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 50 and Hale Road.
Troopers say a man was driving a tractor-trailer eastbound on SR-50 while a man in a sedan was driving westbound. At the Hale Avenue intersection, the tractor-trailer made a U-turn into the path of the sedan, causing the car to crash into the trailer being towed, according to FHP.
The sedan driver died at the scene of the crash. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hernandocounty/broosville-deadly-crash-tractor-trailer-u-turn/67-8654970a-4cab-41f8-a4e0-12c95fa45e17 | 2022-08-25T14:25:58 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hernandocounty/broosville-deadly-crash-tractor-trailer-u-turn/67-8654970a-4cab-41f8-a4e0-12c95fa45e17 |
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A 57-year-old woman is in the hospital after being ejected from her car in a crash early Thursday morning in Clearwater.
The crash happened just after midnight at Court Street and Ewing Avenue when a 2011 Cadillac went off the road and hit a tree and power pole, Clearwater police said in a statement.
The woman is currently being treated for critical injuries at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.
Police say speed is thought to be a factor in the crash. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/clearwater-crash-cadillac/67-499fd93a-f54d-4ba2-903a-92a828c73855 | 2022-08-25T14:26:04 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/clearwater-crash-cadillac/67-499fd93a-f54d-4ba2-903a-92a828c73855 |
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A Pinellas County Sheriff's deputy who unintentionally drove over a woman on St. Pete Beach with his patrol SUV has received a written reprimand for his actions, an internal memo said.
The memo, obtained by 10 Tampa Bay, says Deputy Todd Brien was on duty on May 4 patrolling St. Pete Beach in his sheriff's office Chevy Tahoe when he drove up to a couple sitting on the beach he recognized and talked to them for several minutes from inside his SUV.
A 23-year-old woman was lying on a beach towel in the sand on the passenger side of the SUV and wasn't visible to the deputy, the memo states.
Brien was then called to respond to a call for service, so he turned his SUV in the direction the call came from. This put him in the direct path of the women laying on the sand. As a result, he drove over her with the front driver's side tire, the sheriff's office said.
The woman was taken to the hospital, but emergency crews said her injuries were non-life-threatening.
The memo stated Brien testified he unintentionally struck the woman because he couldn't see her, but took "full responsibility" for his actions.
The disciplinary action recommended ranged from a written reprimand to a 24-hour suspension, according to the memo. The sheriff's office chose to issue a written reprimand.
Brien has been with the sheriff's office since 2013. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/pinellas-deputy-written-reprimand-running-over-woman-beach/67-11746f08-cd20-4c06-a4f0-7897189b4ccc | 2022-08-25T14:26:10 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/pinellas-deputy-written-reprimand-running-over-woman-beach/67-11746f08-cd20-4c06-a4f0-7897189b4ccc |
WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. — A puppy who was found abandoned in South Dakota is now getting a new start in the Twin Cities - with a help of a special "delivery."
A mail carrier found the puppy, who has now been appropriately named Priority, and reached out to a rescue organization. From there, an organization called Ruff Start Rescue took over.
Azure Davis, the executive director of Ruff Start Rescue, says that it's important for people to call in when they find an abandoned animal because it makes an "initial life-saving rescue."
"It’s important people know there are many organizations like ours that can step in and help provide resources to find the owners of a lost pet and if that doesn’t work, find a home for the animal," said Davis. "We just want to empower more people to make that initial save.”
Priority was placed with his foster mom Taya in Eagan after being found. Taya said the puppy "was only about 7lbs and definitely too skinny," when he was first picked up, but slowly began to gain weight and became a "very friendly and confident pup."
"You might say he’s a much bigger dog in a small body. He has fit right in with our resident pack," said Taya. "Despite being ten times smaller, Priority definitely holds his own in some epic wrestling matches!"
Priority will be handed to his new family on Wednesday night in White Bear Lake, according to a press release.
Watch more local news:
Watch the latest local news from the Twin Cities in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/puppy-rescued-by-mail-carrier-gets-new-home-in-the-twin-cities/89-7f7d1afc-6df1-4c5b-bc31-41e51d478679 | 2022-08-25T14:26:16 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/puppy-rescued-by-mail-carrier-gets-new-home-in-the-twin-cities/89-7f7d1afc-6df1-4c5b-bc31-41e51d478679 |
SEATTLE — An 18-year-old suspect faces charges of first-degree robbery, first-degree rape and taking indecent liberties for crimes he allegedly committed after he escaped from a juvenile rehabilitation center in eastern Washington.
The suspect, identified as Jayvantre Sin, was supposed to be in the custody of the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Family Services until he turned 19 and a half years old for crimes he was convicted of as a minor.
Sin was adjudicated for first-degree robbery, second-degree robbery, residential burglary, theft of a motor vehicle, attempting to elude police, conspiracy to commit second-degree robbery, identity theft and unlawful entry into a motor vehicle all before he turned 18, according to charging documents.
On two occasions, Sin was released before trial on electronic home monitoring. On the second occasion, the state objected to his pre-trial release. Both times, Sin removed his home monitoring bracelet, according to court documents.
Earlier this year, Sin escaped from Sunrise Community Facility in Ephrata, which is an unlocked facility with no fencing, according to the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. He had previously been in custody at Naselle Youth Camp, which is a medium security facility, but was deemed eligible for a transfer "Despite [his] criminal history and lack of compliance with court orders," according to court documents.
Sin was at Sunrise Community Facility from June 2021 to June 2022. On June 21 of this year, he and two other teens ran out of the unlocked front door of the residence and got into a "getaway car," according to court documents.
Counselors at the facility said they followed an escape protocol, which involved alerting law enforcement about Sin's escape, seeking information from his family and alerting another juvenile detention facility, which issued a warrant for Sin's arrest. King County Superior Court was not notified of his escape, according to court documents.
On Aug. 6, a month and a half after his escape, Sin allegedly robbed a 16-year-old girl of her cash and raped her at gunpoint while threatening to shoot her, according to court documents.
Nine days later, Sin allegedly followed a 25-year-old Seattle woman as she was walking home from work and grabbed her from behind. He then allegedly dragged her into a wooded area and "violently and brutally beat her and sexually assaulted her," according to court documents.
The victim suffered "extensive injuries" and had to be hospitalized, court documents said.
Sin was arrested Aug. 19 in Everett.
Prosecutors are asking to hold the defendant on $750,000 bail, arguing he is a risk to the community. | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/seattle/teen-escape-juvenile-rehabilitation-facility-seattle-tukwila/281-6c209930-8902-4d94-92cc-b8e2bced4da7 | 2022-08-25T14:28:50 | 0 | https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/seattle/teen-escape-juvenile-rehabilitation-facility-seattle-tukwila/281-6c209930-8902-4d94-92cc-b8e2bced4da7 |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — This weekend is the 22nd annual Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival!
After a two-year pandemic hiatus, this year’s theme is “Rebirth of the Blues.”
Kohr Harlan went out to Esther Short Park and Playground with what you can expect at this fun annual event. | https://www.koin.com/local/kohr-explores-vancouver-wine-jazz-festival-returns/ | 2022-08-25T14:29:38 | 1 | https://www.koin.com/local/kohr-explores-vancouver-wine-jazz-festival-returns/ |
DALLAS — This summer in North Texas has been marked by two things: Heat and drought, and the two seemed to go hand in hand.
That's why Monday's heavy downpours, while they caused severe flooding, was the kind of rain we probably needed.
Now we have an idea of how much the rain helped.
The U.S. Drought Monitor released its weekly update for Texas on Thursday, and most of North Texas saw dramatic improvement in drought conditions over the last week.
Dallas County, for example, went from 100% of the county under "extreme" drought conditions to 0% in that category.
The drought monitor categorizes several drought categories, from lowest to highest: No drought/dry conditions, abnormally dry, moderate drought, severe drought, extreme drought and exceptional drought.
As of last week, around 31% of Dallas County and 88% of Tarrant County were under "exceptional" drought conditions. The exceptional designation, or "D4," is categorized as an area of widespread crop and pasture losses, along with water shortages in reservoirs, streams and wells that can create water emergencies. So, in a nutshell, not good.
Here's the full explanation of each category from the Drought Monitor.
Fortunately, by Tuesday morning, Dallas and Tarrant counties, which saw the most rainfall in the area, were free from exceptional drought conditions.
In fact, no North Texas counties in our surrounding area are in exceptional drought conditions after Monday's rain.
Here's a full rundown of how the numbers shook out for North Texas counties.
(Note: These are broken down by percentages. For example, before Monday's rain, 31.81% of Dallas County was in exceptional drought conditions. After the rain, 0% of the county was under exceptional conditions.)
Dallas County
Before the rain (by percentage):
Abnormally dry-extreme: 100%
Exceptional: 31.81%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought: 47.21%
Extreme-exceptional drought: 0%
Tarrant County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 88%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought: 89.81%
Extreme-exceptional drought: 0%
Denton County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 0%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought-exceptional drought: 0%
Collin County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 25.96%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought: 97.82%
Extreme drought: 20.98%
Exceptional drought: 0%\
Rockwall County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 86.56%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-severe drought: 100%
Extreme-exceptional drought: 0%
Kaufman County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 75.03%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought: 75.42%
Extreme drought: 0%
Exceptional drought: 0%
Ellis County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 98.97%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought: 99.58%
Extreme drought: 23.09%
Exceptional drought: 0%
Johnson County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-exceptional drought: 100%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-severe drought: 100%
Extreme drought: 35.42%
Exceptional drought: 0%
Parker County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-severe drought: 100%
Extreme drought: 99.88%
Exceptional drought: 79.59%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-severe drought: 100%
Extreme drought: 56.16%
Exceptional drought: 0%
Wise County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-severe drought: 100%
Extreme drought: 38.55%
Exceptional drought: 0%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-moderate drought: 100%
Severe drought: 14.92%
Extreme-exceptional drought: 0%
Hunt County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 87.98%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-severe drought: 100%
Extreme drought: 65.16%
Exceptional drought: 0%
Hood County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-exceptional drought: 100%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 0%
Somervell County
Before the rain:
Abnormally dry-exceptional drought: 100%
After the rain:
Abnormally dry-extreme drought: 100%
Exceptional drought: 0% | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-flooding-dfw-weather-drought-texas-before-and-after-numbers-how-much-our-rain-actually-helped-the-drought-in-north-texas/287-b54e29b8-4848-48e0-bdea-d445fa30cfa2 | 2022-08-25T14:35:50 | 0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-flooding-dfw-weather-drought-texas-before-and-after-numbers-how-much-our-rain-actually-helped-the-drought-in-north-texas/287-b54e29b8-4848-48e0-bdea-d445fa30cfa2 |
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