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DFW is already home to the most apartment dwellers. Analysis shows the area needs 19,000 more each year to meet demand.
Credit: Volodymyr Kyrylyuk - stock.adobe
DALLAS — If it seems like there are apartments everywhere you look, get used to it. Apparently, we are going to need a lot more of them in the years ahead.
Right now, there are more apartment dwellers in DFW (1.3 Million of them) than anywhere else in the state. Houston has 1.2 Million, Austin has 367,400, and San Antonio has 336,000.
But make room for many more.
Just to keep up with demand, a recent report from the National Apartment Association predicts DFW will need 19,000 more units each year.
Again, that's more than any other city in Texas will need to build.
And that's saying something, because they predict Houston will need 15,000 more units each year, Austin will need 8,000 more yearly, and San Antonio will need an additional 4,000 apartments annually.
The prediction also says Texas, combined with just Florida and California, will account for 40% of all the new apartments needed nationally between now and 2035. It appears the people behind this study believe the tremendous influx of people into Texas will continue in the years ahead.
But will something be done to increase affordability?
Not that long ago, WFAA reported on how many lower-rent units have been lost over the years in DFW in favor of high-rent luxury apartments.
The analysis by the National Apartment Association confirms that's not just happening here. Compared to 2015, they found that nationwide in 2020 there were 4.7 million fewer affordable units that had rents below $1,000.
What’s driving up apartment rents?
If you rent, or want to rent, and you've found vacancies hard to come by and reasonable rent even harder to come by, there are a lot of factors to blame. A big part of the problem is so many people have moved to big Texas cities and need housing.
But in addition to all the people moving in, a lot of people are moving back in, and are adding to the short supply of units, which runs up rents.
You probably know someone who ‘consolidated a household’ during the earlier days of the pandemic, like someone who lost a job or got really lonely and moved back in with their parents.
They consolidated.
Apartmentlist.com notes that nationwide in 2020, 2.5 million households consolidated for various reasons. That left a number of homes and apartments vacant.
Well, they didn't want to live with mom and dad or whomever they consolidated with forever, so by the end of 2020, the site says those 2.5 million households ‘unconsolidated’ again–and people moved back to their own places.
On top of that, they report an additional 2 million households were created in 2021. That's put a serious crimp on the supply of places to live.
How to get an apartment if you don’t have rental history
With so much competition for apartments, what do you do if you don’t have much credit or rental history and you want to lease?
ApartmentList recently published an article addressing that concern with some tips for aspiring renters. | 2022-09-12T20:53:43Z | www.wfaa.com | Apartment boom in Dallas-Fort Worth | New report predicts thousands of units needed to house people moving into area | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/money/business/right-on-the-money/make-room-north-texas-new-report-shows-more-apartments-needed-house-influx-new-residents/287-375a70d7-7d36-488f-bc95-1eedfb9a225c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/money/business/right-on-the-money/make-room-north-texas-new-report-shows-more-apartments-needed-house-influx-new-residents/287-375a70d7-7d36-488f-bc95-1eedfb9a225c |
Events are scheduled to sign up riders for a free smartphone and a discount GoPass card to access jobs, health care and educational opportunities.
DALLAS — Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is working with Assurance Wireless to provide free smartphones, phone services, and discounted transportation to eligible riders.
The two are working together for the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which was made to help households get broadband internet for things like work, school and healthcare.
Under DART and Assurance's partnership, riders can get a free Android smartphone if they participate in Medicaid, SNAP, or the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
The smartphone will also come with unlimited high-speed data, unlimited minutes and texts, and 10 gigabytes of mobile hotspot data.
The same benefits also come under Texas Lifeline, which is open to anyone involved the Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, or any of the following programs:
Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)
DHA: Housing Solutions for North Texas
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
DART and Assurance Wireless will hold multiple events in September and November for people to apply for free smartphones. You have to bring documents to prove that you're participating in any of the eligible programs.
In addition to the free smartphones, DART has also launched a pilot program to provide Discount GoPass Tap Cards. The goal is to help eligible riders have easier access to job, healthcare and educational opportunities.
New and current riders can apply for a Discount Tap Card if they're involved in any of the programs mentioned above or if they receive Medicare. The cards can be used on any DART bus or light rail including Trinity Railway Express (TRE) between EBJ Union Station and CentrePort/DFW Station. | 2022-09-12T20:53:55Z | www.wfaa.com | DART: Free phones, discounted tap cards | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-dart-free-cell-phones-phone-services-discount-tap-cards-available-eligible-dart-riders/287-341ec276-9172-483b-939e-e00bb1e9c4ab | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-dart-free-cell-phones-phone-services-discount-tap-cards-available-eligible-dart-riders/287-341ec276-9172-483b-939e-e00bb1e9c4ab |
The Dallas Cowboys suffered a big blow in Week 1 when Dak Prescott injured his thumb but Stephen Jones expects the QB to return sooner rather than later.
DALLAS — Losing 19-3 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1 can be easily overcome in a 17-game season. Losing your starting quarterback for six to eight weeks is a hurdle that threatens to derail the season.
However, this is the reality that the Dallas Cowboys find themselves in as Dak Prescott injured his hand in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium during the opening night loss on Sunday.
The Cowboys will be without their two-time Pro Bowler for nearly half the season as backup quarterback Cooper Rush puts away the clipboard and joins the starting lineup.
Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones joined "K&C Masterpiece" on 105.3 "The Fan" [KRLD-FM] on Monday and declared panic wasn't an option after just one game.
"We really like our overall roster," said Jones. "Certainly totally understand any question marks there are based on the way we executed on the offensive side of the ball yesterday. We can be better on defense and special teams, all three phases, and we have to be. But I don’t think panic is any part of this right now. We have to go to work, chop wood, and execute better and good things will happen for this football team.”
#Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones told @1053thefan what surprised him about the loss to the #Buccaneers was how they couldn't move the football. pic.twitter.com/1ZenOeqNpI
When pressed by co-host Kevin Hageland about whether they believe Prescott will be back sooner rather than later, Jones said, "Absolutely. We feel very confident he’ll be back. We just don’t know that time frame right now.”
According to Jones, they knew something was wrong with Prescott from the owners box during the game when they saw the hit and Prescott take himself out of the game.
While Prescott has his third different injury that will force him to miss time in as many seasons, Jones doesn't see Prescott as injury prone.
Said Jones: "I think Dak is built to last. I think obviously those hand injuries in pockets are tough ones. I don’t think he’s injury prone and feel like he’ll rebound from this. He’s a great leader. He’ll be out there leading the charge. I know he won’t miss anything and I think great things are ahead of Dak.”
#Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones told @1053thefan there is no concern about #Dak being injury prone. pic.twitter.com/noYQYshi2h
The Cowboys fall to 0-1 in the season, marking the third straight year that they have failed to win a season debut game. Dallas gets to stay at AT&T Stadium for Week 2, but the opponent is another playoff team from the previous year as the defending AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals visit.
The Bengals are looking for their first win of the season after losing 23-20 to the Pittsburgh Steelers in overtime. With both clubs limping into the matchup at 0-1, the September tilt already has "must win" tones as neither club wants to deal with an 0-2 start.
Do you think the Cowboys will be able to make do with Cooper Rush? Share your thoughts with Mark on Twitter @therealmarklane. | 2022-09-12T20:54:13Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cowboys confident QB Dak Prescott will make swift recovery | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/cowboys-evp-stephen-jones-confident-dak-prescott-swift-recovery/287-652bb06a-657b-4353-b73b-0e1b70056644 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/cowboys-evp-stephen-jones-confident-dak-prescott-swift-recovery/287-652bb06a-657b-4353-b73b-0e1b70056644 |
18 wheeler accident causes delays in Richardson
Brooklyn was part of the Dallas Texans 09G ECNL soccer team. She was an eighth grader at Hudson Middle School in Sachse.
"She was so welcoming to me, it's horrible to lose her," said Luxsha Amarasingham, Brooklyn's close friend.
"He crossed the center median into the southbound lanes, which is where the SUV was traveling, where the head-on collision occurred," said Garland Police Officer Felicia Jones.
Sources in Collin County told WFAA, Spencer has a prior DWI charge from 2020 in Plano and a resisting arrest charge.
In 2015, Collin County officials charges Spencer with a drug offense.
On Sunday evening, friends and soccer mates released white roses in Brooklyn's honor.
A special moment for #13, “Mighty.” Her fellow soccer teammates & friends released white roses in the water. 🤍🤍
Each rose has a special message written on it. @wfaa pic.twitter.com/gPQpO2mZU5
Dallas Texans have set up a GoFundMe account to help the victim's family. Click here if you would like to donate. | 2022-09-12T23:21:45Z | www.wfaa.com | Garland, TX: Crash kills teen girl, injures woman | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/garland-texas-deadly-head-on-car-crash-13-year-old-teenage-girl-killed-woman-injured-man-suspect-arrested-castle-drive-toler-road/287-1a9841e7-5524-44c1-bd41-429c3084a7a6 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/garland-texas-deadly-head-on-car-crash-13-year-old-teenage-girl-killed-woman-injured-man-suspect-arrested-castle-drive-toler-road/287-1a9841e7-5524-44c1-bd41-429c3084a7a6 |
After a disappointing immediate start to the Dallas Cowboys' season, it's not too early to start looking ahead at Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavs' upcoming campaign.
Author: Pete Freedman
DALLAS — The sky is falling in Cowboys Nation this week.
Ready as Dallas Cowboys fans and even local businesses were for the team's 2022-2023 season to get underway, the team itself -- despite assurances to the contrary -- didn't seem up for the cause as they welcomed Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers into AT&T Stadium on Sunday for a Week 1 showdown.
On its own, the mishap-filled, and ultimately disastrous, season-opening 19-3 loss would be a tough pill to swallow. But then you have to factor in that star quarterback Dak Prescott also hurt his thumb late in the game -- an injury that will require surgery and six to eight weeks of recovery time.
At the earliest, that means Prescott isn't expected to return to on-field action until Week 7 when the Cowboys host the Detroit Lions at home on Sunday, October 23.
To put that in perspective: With the Dallas Mavericks set to kick off their own 2022-2023 season on Wednesday, October 19, Luka Doncic will be back in meaningful NBA action before Prescott plays another game in the NFL this year.
Confident as Cowboys brass may be that Prescott will return to action in time to turn the season around, many frustrated fans are already turning in their towels just 1/17th of the way through the season:
(Many apologies to Prescott backup Cooper Rush.)
On the other hand, Mavericks fans have lots to look forward to in the coming season -- even with the loss of highly regarded guard Jalen Brunson to the New York Knicks during free agency.
For one thing, after years of not being able to (legally) do so, Mavs fans without cable will at least have an option for watching their team play this year -- albeit for a price -- through a new streaming service offered by Bally Sports.
Then, of course, there's plenty to be hyped about when it comes to the fashion-forward Mavs superstar Doncic himself, who has been breaking records and looking to be in impressive shape while playing basketball overseas this summer.
Even further, factor in a few exciting additions (young and old) to this year's roster, the team locking up some beloved veteran talent to long-term deals and even their home arena's famously leaky roof getting fixed, and what's not to love?
How 'bout those Mavericks, amirite?
No, Mark Cuban isn't turning the Texas ghost town he purchased last year into a dinosaur theme park
10 best and 10 worst free agent signings in Dallas Mavericks history | 2022-09-12T23:22:28Z | www.wfaa.com | Luka Mania will return to action before Dak returns from injury | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/dak-return-dallas-cowboys-october-23-dallas-mavericks-season-starts-oct-19/287-ede627ed-8b22-4a5f-9a69-6eb54438801a | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/dak-return-dallas-cowboys-october-23-dallas-mavericks-season-starts-oct-19/287-ede627ed-8b22-4a5f-9a69-6eb54438801a |
County commissioners have begun the process to consider whether to retrofit the existing jail or build a new smaller, smarter facility.
Credit: Martin Doporto
DALLAS — Dallas County commissioners are considering whether to move the county jail and criminal courthouse from the western edge of downtown, potentially opening hundreds of acres of prime real estate to development that could permanently change the city skyline.
“We’re looking at what would be best,” county Judge Clay Jenkins told WFAA. “Can you make this one over [during] the next decade or two into the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars – constantly adding to the jail so it stays up to code or is it cheaper and wiser to build another one?”
The jail dates back to the 1980s. Keeping up with changing jail standards on how and where to house inmates has cost the county millions in renovations over the years.
The Lew Sterrett Justice Center sits behind the Frank Crowley Courts Building at the corner of W. Commerce Street and Riverfront Boulevard on the western edge of the Dallas skyline. To the south sits the now abandoned state jail and a large surface parking lot. To the north is an empty lot that has gone undeveloped for years.
Thirty years ago, it was an underutilized part of the urban core. Today, it’s a lucrative piece of land sitting between Dallas’ two iconic Calatrava bridges.
A new jail could be smaller and smarter than the 7,200-bed capacity facility currently in use, Jenkins said.
A new one would be designed for violent offenders – not for those inmates with addiction and mental health issues.
“If you can build it smarter and it leads to getting cops back on the street faster, that’s a savings,” the judge continued.
County commissioners already agreed to form a committee to make a recommendation on what to do. Next month, commissioners will formally name the members of that committee.
Jenkins said he will appoint Noé Hinojosa, Jr. He is the chairman and chief executive officer of Estrada Hinojosa, a Dallas-based investment banking firm.
Commissioner J.J. Koch told WFAA that he has asked Jeff Spivey, the former police chief of Irving to sit on the committee. Commissioners Theresa Daniel, Elba Garcia and John Wiley Price will select the rest of the group.
“Our useful life for our current jail is probably done in about five years. So, we need to have a plan for replacement certainly within 10 years, optimally within eight,” commissioner Koch told WFAA.
“There may be some people that say ‘judge, just fix the old one. It’s cheaper.’ Well, that sometimes can be true. But if you’ve ever redone an old building or old house, sometimes that can be as expensive to fix up and build as a new one,” Jenkins explained. “I’m interested to hear what the public has to say. It will be a very thoughtful process.”
But this discussion is a lot bigger than just potentially erecting a new, smarter jail.
If Dallas County moves the lockup and its criminal courthouse, it would return hundreds of acres of lucrative land downtown back to the property tax rolls and free up prime real estate on the western edge of the skyline.
“When [former Dallas] Mayor Mike Rawlings and I were trying to lure the [Texas] Rangers we were able to build with the Dawson Jail – the empty jail next door – if we knocked that down, there’s enough room to put a [major league] baseball field. But if you add all of that other land – obviously the Rangers are where they are, we’re not getting the Rangers, if you get all that land, you can do something really big and special,” Jenkins told WFAA.
A new county jail, by state law, would have to be within four miles of downtown, Jenkins added.
It’s likely to take up to a year for the soon-to-be appointed county committee to make a recommendation. | 2022-09-13T03:38:46Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas County to consider demolishing county jail | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-county-to-consider-demolish-county-jail-criminal-courthouse/287-7ee4e0ce-58ef-4a89-b0c1-e17c89b89292 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-county-to-consider-demolish-county-jail-criminal-courthouse/287-7ee4e0ce-58ef-4a89-b0c1-e17c89b89292 |
DALLAS — It could have been a story of catastrophe.
But, the Jones family sees a story of community.
Around 11 a.m. Monday, just before the lunch rush began, Dallas police say a stolen car crashed straight into Blackjack Pizza’s dining room.
Blackjack has been in business three and a half decades.
It sits in the 2500 block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, just a few blocks west of Fair Park in Dallas.
Ron Jones, a longtime cook, was in the kitchen when the crash happened.
“All the sudden I heard a boom. A car drove in the building!” he said.
He immediately ran to one of their regular customers who’d been knocked down.
Seconds later, Dallas police ran in.
“Police drew the guns on them, and that’s when I disappeared,” he said.
The customer and the suspected driver of the stolen vehicle were hospitalized with what police said were minor injuries.
But Blackjack sustained major damage.
An online fundraising campaign has been set up to help the Jones family reopen Blackjack as quickly as possible.
Within just hours, the damage was being repaired by Blackjack’s loyal customers.
RELATED: 2 injured, including suspect, after car crashes into South Dallas restaurant following attempted traffic stop, police say
They tore down bricks that were precariously hanging from the walls.
They took out air conditioning ducts that were barely hanging on. They swept dust and glass.
By evening, they were shoring up and boarding up the front of the restaurant.
Owner Terry Jones, Ron’s brother, said he didn’t call anyone for help.
“They just showed up!” he said.
“They want us to reopen of course because they love our food,” he said with a laugh.
Blackjack is an institution. Some love the pizza. Others love the hamburgers. Most love the sweet iced tea.
Ron and Terry’s mother, Dorothy Jones, is a fixture at Blackjack.
Black Jack Pizza owner Dorothy Jones
The 82-year-old works most every day, but she was not there when the crash happened.
She hurried to the hospital to see the customer who’d been rushed there.
When she arrived back at her restaurant, more customers flocked in with hugs and help.
“It’s a blessing,” Dorothy said. “Everybody came to our rescue!”
Just one week before the crash, a man who helped found the restaurant in the 1990's but was no longer affiliated with it passed away.
The Jones family promises to rebuild and reopen.
Clearly, they won’t have to do it alone.
“All of my customers are my family. I tell them I love them,” she said.
“They all call you mom,” Terry told her.
“I’m everybody’s mom, and I love it,” she said. | 2022-09-13T05:44:33Z | www.wfaa.com | Community helps clean after car crashes into Blackjack Pizza | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/customers-show-up-clean-stolen-car-crashes-into-blackjack-pizza-south-dallas/287-cfbd77bd-f671-4917-a2ac-30b692ca0021 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/customers-show-up-clean-stolen-car-crashes-into-blackjack-pizza-south-dallas/287-cfbd77bd-f671-4917-a2ac-30b692ca0021 |
Members of the esports team are making a name for themselves globally and are putting North Texas in the international spotlight.
Author: Alex Cruz, William Joy (WFAA)
DALLAS — Burn blue.
Two words that define one of the most recently successful pro sports teams in the North Texas area.
Nestled in an office space at Victory Park in downtown, the Dallas Fuel are making a name for themselves globally and are putting North Texas in the international spotlight.
While fans of the Mavericks and Stars head to the American Airlines Center on a regular basis, the Fuel are right next door and quietly finding success in the world of esports.
The Fuel are an affiliate of the world-renowned organization OpTic Gaming, which is now also headquartered in Dallas, and are one of 20 teams in the professional league for the game Overwatch 2.
The Fuel have gone through many iterations of the team since the Overwatch League began in 2017.
This year's team is unique and sets itself apart from previous rosters because of one significant strategy change.
Every member of the Fuel is from South Korea.
"It’s very helpful to have people who are from the same culture as you and I think that’s a big plus," Fuel member Kim Yeong-Han, a.k.a. SP9RK1E, told WFAA.
Twenty-year-old SP9RK1E, pronounced "sparkle," is one of the team's stars. He's known for his role in using damage-dealing characters.
"Gaming was always a hobby and eventually I got to a point where I wanted to challenge myself to do even better and surpass everyone else," SP9RK1E said.
locked in ☑
loaded ☑
flying high ☑ pic.twitter.com/m1KCng9tWZ
— Dallas Fuel (@DallasFuel) September 6, 2022
Matthew Taylor, the team's general manager, handles contracts and helps scout new talent for the Fuel. He was involved in major roster changes that brought in players like SP9RK1E and led to the current all-Korean team.
"We have a big core right now that we're really happy with," Taylor told WFAA.
The other players are: Kim Dong-Ha (Doha); Choi Han-been (Hanbin); Kwon Joon (Fielder); Euiseok Lee (Fearless); Han Hyeon-seok (ChiYo); Kim Tae-Hoon (Edison); and Kang Min-seo (guriyo).
The closeness of the team is apparent through the interactions between Taylor and the players. Taylor, who goes by TazMo online, told WFAA that the players call him "TazMom."
"It’s a joke that everyone makes but it’s true because we literally treat these guys like a family all the time," Taylor said.
Staying fueled
With the team becoming more in-sync, the Fuel have been finding success recently in Overwatch 2.
Just this past weekend, the Fuel stamped their name in the esports world with a commanding win in the 2022 Summer Showdown and are riding a 10-match winning streak. This followed a disappointing performance in a tournament in Hawaii back in July where the team was eliminated after an 0-2 performance.
YOUR 2022 SUMMER SHOWDOWN CHAMPIONS 🏆 pic.twitter.com/B6yKrIfK74
— Dallas Fuel (@DallasFuel) September 11, 2022
In 2021, they finished third in the end of the season playoff series and won a midseason tournament.
Donning sweatpants and flip-flops, the Fuel practice eight hours a day on desks covered in Korean snacks and energy drinks.
Although the game is played on a computer, their practice routines involve more than sitting.
The Fuel players have personal fitness trainers that keep them active and in shape to perform well. There's even film review sessions to scout out their opponents.
"When you compare esports to any traditional sport, it’s quite different because we get to face and scrimmage against so many different teams instead of just working on our own mechanics," Fuel coach "Rush" said.
Rush, who was part of the all-Korean roster change, told WFAA he's not a players' coach -- but he wins.
"They are very aware that I'm not going to go easy on them, so I'd say I'm a very stern, like a blunt type," he said.
Esports and the Overwatch franchise have continued to grow in popularity as interest in the game increases and rivalries form between teams. In the U.S., the popularity is only beginning to near the levels it's at in Korea.
"It’s on national television there. It was selling out stadiums. You saw players arriving on jumbo jets, it was like WWE style. Seriously," Taylor said.
"I think in the past when people think about esports, they didn’t really treat it like a real sport but as an avid sports lover myself when I first went to my first live event, I felt the passion and all the hard work," SP9RK1E said.
The game itself is even garnering attention from Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who playfully offered his talents to the Fuel.
As popularity rises, so does the payout.
The Overwatch League minimum for players is about $56,000. The average is around $100,000 and that doesn't include the two-bedroom Victory Park apartments the team pays for as well.
There are also incentives and hundreds of thousands of dollars on the line at tournaments, as well. The Summer Showdown they just won had a $75,000 top prize.
Fuel family
Although he describes himself as a "very stern" coach, Rush said he sees the family aspect of the team as helpful in the winning formula.
"What’s unique about our team is that I’m currently working with a lot of the players that I have worked with in the past for a very long time so we have that special relationship with each other," Rush said.
When they're not playing, the Fuel players spend more time together exploring the still-new area of North Texas.
"We definitely spend most of the time together outside of the practice, but we like to enjoy eating late night snacks together," SP9RK1E said. "We would just go home and we would play other games or just relax at home... we've been playing around with [virtual reality] the most."
Group outings have included several trips to Six Flags in Arlington, and they've fallen for Texas barbecue. Tender Smokehouse was their first experience with the popular food choice.
"I think it’s important to have that camaraderie and understanding with each other and these guys are already kind of a family and we have a big core right now that we’re really happy with," Taylor said.
"At the end of the day, they are kids. Half of them are just 18, just becoming, like they haven’t worked a proper job and they’re coming straight to here into a job that have a lot of eyes on them," the Fuel GM added.
Burn blue
While the focus of Dallas sports is on teams such as the Cowboys, Mavericks, Stars and Rangers, the Fuel are slowly inserting themselves among the most-talked-about groups in North Texas.
Now as a member of OpTic Gaming, the Fuel look to keep their global brand going through the best way possible -- winning.
'Dallas loves gaming': Esports take center stage in North Texas to kick off the summer
Call of Duty League event expected to draw thousands to North Texas this weekend
Dallas-based Envy Gaming taking over management of Esports Stadium Arlington | 2022-09-13T05:44:40Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Fuel using success to be among top North Texas pro teams | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-fuel-esports-success-top-pro-sports-teams-north-texas-dfw/287-71ea67de-4416-4709-b62a-183d89c1afe5 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dallas-fuel-esports-success-top-pro-sports-teams-north-texas-dfw/287-71ea67de-4416-4709-b62a-183d89c1afe5 |
The new-build home has six bedrooms, eight bathrooms and three half-baths, and is 23,688 square feet.
Credit: Jake Dean, Dallas Business Journal
After four years of construction, the finishing touches are being put on a 23,688-square-foot mansion in University Park, and the grand limestone palace has hit the market priced at $43 million.
The home at 6915 Baltimore Drive in the exclusive Volk Estates neighborhood is the most expensive listing in North Texas.
Designed by architect Richard Drummond Davis, the custom home was originally built for Christy Thompson, daughter of late wildcatter J. Cleo Thompson. Thompson, who grew up in a home across the street, has decided to list the estate.
Construction on the home began in 2018 and work is still being completed. The home is built on a double lot totaling almost 2 acres — part of which was a property that once belonged to Thompson’s grandparents.
The exterior of the home is finished in limestone imported from Bulgaria, builder Stuart McIlyar of McIlyar Construction Co. told the Dallas Business Journal on a tour of the property.
“I love Texas limestone, don’t get me wrong,” McIlyar said. “But this is the Bentley of limestone. It’s much denser than what we think of as Texas limestone. It doesn’t stain like the Texas limestone does. It doesn't chip and fall apart like ours does. It's not near as porous.”
McIlyar, who builds in the Park Cities, Preston Hollow, Greenway Parks and nearby luxury neighborhoods, said the home is by far the biggest he’s constructed.
The front exterior is striking — even with scaffolding still standing — with two-story tall single-piece columns and a 360-degree wraparound balcony.
Step inside, and the black and white panda marble floor and curved, symmetrical dual staircases immediately catch the eye. Bamboo wood flooring in the formal living area and others, a two-story coffered and domed ceiling and imported glass chandelier are among the other many interior highlights.
Credit: Bill Hethcock, Dallas Business Journal
The black and white panda marble floor and curved staircases.
Other features include a green onyx-wrapped island wet bar, a 10-car garage with electric chargers, a wine room, library, sauna and spa, a guest apartment, four fireplaces, a theater, yoga and exercise rooms, and a safe room. The library has antique Indian double doors with a mother-of-pearl inlay, and the octagonal-shaped reading room has seven walls of windows.
The marble floors, dual staircases and other features are bookmatched, meaning the stone slabs are mirrored so the pattern and veining flow continuously from one slab into the other.
Bookmatched marble on the floors.
Realtor Diana Stewart with Allie Beth Allman & Associates has the listing.
“Christy, the owner, really had a big part in all the design,” Stewart said. “It was her idea for the stairway and the modern look. She has a really good eye.”
In addition to its location, the luxury finishes throughout are what really set the property apart, Stewart said.
"Everything in this home has been elevated, from the design to the materials and the craftsmanship,” she said.
The mansion has six bedrooms, eight full bathrooms and three half-baths. It. Also has 63 solar roof panels, a geothermal heating and cooling system, and a 15,000-gallon groundwater tank for eco-friendly and efficient energy usage.
Even though out-of-state homebuyers, especially Californians, are flowing into the Park Cities in large numbers, Stewart envisions the buyer being local.
“I feel like if you look at Volk Estates and the people that are moving within Volk Estates trying to get bigger lots (the buyer will come from the area),” she said. “The local people appreciate this area and the size of the lot and what you're getting and the value of it for the location in the city.”
She said the residential market remains solid in the Park Cities.
“The estate market is still good if it's quality,” she said. “There’s not a lot of new construction of this quality, this size, this location.”
Merriman Anderson Architects drives design for McLaren U.S. HQ in Coppell
Dallas-Fort Worth only U.S. market where home sale prices dropped last month | 2022-09-13T16:14:01Z | www.wfaa.com | Multimillion-dollar mansion in Dallas, Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/life/43-million-new-build-mansion-university-park-enclave-of-volk-estates-dallas-texas/287-6cc8cd65-e21a-464a-aa7a-6c67a3f83b0f | https://www.wfaa.com/article/life/43-million-new-build-mansion-university-park-enclave-of-volk-estates-dallas-texas/287-6cc8cd65-e21a-464a-aa7a-6c67a3f83b0f |
Week 1 turned out to be quite impactful for the Dallas Cowboys as their opening week loss also included the loss of their quarterback.
DALLAS — Week 1 was an ugly debut for the Dallas Cowboys, losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and looking moribund while scoring just three points in defeat. To make matters worse, the team lost starting quarterback Dak Prescott to a right thumb fracture that will keep him out 6 to 8 weeks.
That’s what you call a bad night and a disappointing beginning to the new NFL season. Very few things went right for the Cowboys in Week 1 and now they must go back to the drawing board and figure out how to salvage the season. That’s a difficult task without their leader, and when upper management failed to properly prepare the roster for this year.
Before moving forward to the rest of the season, let’s look at what we learned about the Cowboys in the Week 1 loss:
The offense isn’t ready
The Cowboys opted against playing the majority of their starters in the preseason and it showed. After finishing 2021 as the top offense in the league, the Cowboys looked out of sync and rusty. The numerous injuries at wide receiver all offseason had the team shuffling options in and out, and when Week 1 came around the offense didn’t have the skill players to win.
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is a heralded first-round pick, but he lined up with seventh-round pick Noah Brown, fifth-round pick Simi Fehoko and undrafted free agent Dennis Houston as the top receivers. That’s not enough ammunition to scare defenses, and the Cowboys saw how inept their receivers were on opening night.
The running game was sound with running back Ezekiel Elliott getting off to a good start, but the Buccaneers were allowing the Cowboys to run the ball for small gains rather than beat them down the field. Without any game breakers at receiver, the defense for Tampa Bay just flooded passing zones to make life difficult for Prescott and the offense.
CeeDee Lamb isn’t a top WR yet
One of the offseason plans revolved around making Lamb the true No. 1 wide receiver threat for Prescott. After two good seasons with Amari Cooper lining up opposite of him, the thought was Lamb was ready to take his game to the next level. That wasn’t the case against the Buccaneers.
Lamb didn’t answer the call, catching just two passes for 29 yards while dropping a first down catch that could’ve settled down the offense. The third-year breakout candidate did see double and triple teams as the focus of the defense, but Lamb had trouble making space to earn big plays.
I'm a big CeeDee believer. The drop can't happen and you gotta separate vs man coverage when you get it. Didn't do that enough. https://t.co/Bdalm23xK1
— Jeff Cavanaugh (@timeforjeffrey) September 12, 2022
Erasing Lamb will be the goal of every defense that the Cowboys play, and they will aim to make someone other than Lamb beat them. Lamb has to be able to find the open spaces or get separation when he gets his opportunities. That didn’t happen in Week 1.
The offensive line is problematic
A thin group got even thinner when starting left guard Connor McGovern went down with an ankle injury. It was expected that the unit would struggle some due to the Buccaneers’ quality on the defensive line, and that was the case. Prescott and backup quarterback Cooper Rush were hurried all night long and weren’t afforded the time to find open receivers. The offensive line gave up four sacks on the night.
There were also pre-snap penalties that included four false starts, an ineligible man downfield, and a hold that cost the offense. Right tackle Terence Steele was the biggest offender with four penalties. Steele was taking over for La’el Collins, who was released by the team. That doesn’t look like a smart decision after one game. On a positive note, rookie first-rounder Tyler Smith acquitted himself well in his debut at left tackle.
It’s just one week, but Dallas’ offensive line still has work to do, just as many feared before the season began.
Micah Parsons has the Defensive Player of the Year look
This isn’t a surprise to anyone who watched him last year, but Parsons is incredible. If anyone was expecting a second-year slump, they were mistaken.
Parsons was the best defensive player on the field last for the Cowboys, picking up two sacks and the linebacker's speed showed up again in pursuit.
Micah Parsons is the best EDGE rusher in the NFL.
The defense didn’t have much of an impact, but Parsons saved points on his two takedowns of Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady in the red zone. Parsons is already one of the best defensive players in the game and the start to his sophomore season suggests he’ll be in the mix for the DPOY.
What lessons do you hope the Cowboys learn from their Week 1 defeat? Share your thoughts with Ben on Twitter @BenGrimaldi. | 2022-09-13T16:14:31Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cowboys back at square one following deflating Week 1 loss | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/dallas-cowboys-week-1-takeaways/287-392206a8-c265-46b6-aca6-366b3f65192b | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/dallas-cowboys-week-1-takeaways/287-392206a8-c265-46b6-aca6-366b3f65192b |
Get ready to fall into shoulder season
This segment is sponsored by Expedia.
If you aren't familiar with the term, it's typically the sweet spot when travelers can vacation without breaking the bank
Travel contributor Melanie Fish explains what this means for your fall trips.
For more information, go to VRBO.com. | 2022-09-13T17:49:52Z | www.wfaa.com | Get ready to fall into shoulder season | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/get-ready-to-fall-into-shoulder-season/287-90365560-40bd-47c2-a341-efe81848c3ac | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/get-ready-to-fall-into-shoulder-season/287-90365560-40bd-47c2-a341-efe81848c3ac |
The holidays are coming – be prepared with 50 Floor
There are two f-words that can make you go from relaxing on a Saturday to frantically running around your home... Friends and family, and they'll be crowding into your home before you know it!
50 Floor wants to help you make sure your home is ready. | 2022-09-13T17:50:16Z | www.wfaa.com | The holidays are coming – be prepared with 50 Floor | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/the-holidays-are-coming-be-prepared-with-50-floor/287-1373e212-e8ff-463b-a183-bdf86b80d25a | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/the-holidays-are-coming-be-prepared-with-50-floor/287-1373e212-e8ff-463b-a183-bdf86b80d25a |
Veritex Community Bank “Good Deeds” Spotlight: Justins Place
In today's Veritex Community Bank "Good Deeds" spotlight, we're featuring a non-profit on a mission to impact the life of a child by empowering single moms to grow mentally, spiritually and physically to live a life free of crisis and walk out of generational poverty.
To find out which of their weekly programs fit into your schedule, go to JustinsPlace.org. | 2022-09-13T17:50:22Z | www.wfaa.com | Veritex Community Bank “Good Deeds” Spotlight: Justins Place | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/veritex-community-bank-good-deeds-spotlight-justins-place/287-56ce60f2-9926-4e85-9191-fe1060c1b91e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/veritex-community-bank-good-deeds-spotlight-justins-place/287-56ce60f2-9926-4e85-9191-fe1060c1b91e |
Emmett, 37, was shot on Sept. 23, 2019 during a robbery while eating Whataburger in his car in the driveway of his Old East Dallas home.
Credit: Emmett family
DALLAS — Opening statements and testimony in the trial for one of three men facing charges in the murder of Carter High School alum and former NBA player, Andre Emmett, began Tuesday.
Larry Jenkins is charged with capital murder. He has pleaded not guilty.
RELATED: Two indicted in slaying of former NBA player Andre Emmett
A passerby told the court he called 911 after he saw an injured Emmett, who was later found by first responders a short distance from his home, investigators testified.
Emmett’s mother, Regina Oliver, took the stand and told the court she arrived at Emmett’s house early Sept. 23 to drop her granddaughter, Emmett’s daughter, off. She told the court she called 911 after she saw that the door to her son’s Range Rover was open and his cellphone inside.
Oliver became emotional when shown pictures of her son while on the stand and also while the home security video was played for the court. | 2022-09-13T21:01:38Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas: Trial underway for man accused of killing Andre Emmett | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/opening-statements-testimony-in-capital-murder-trial-against-man-accused-of-killing-former-nba-player-andre-emmett/287-a9645c59-2e47-4460-8c9b-88e538c994ac | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/opening-statements-testimony-in-capital-murder-trial-against-man-accused-of-killing-former-nba-player-andre-emmett/287-a9645c59-2e47-4460-8c9b-88e538c994ac |
"We keep it pretty live around here. It's fun," Principal Sharri Zachary said. "We have turned our campus around and so that makes it a very magical place for me."
DALLAS — Friendly competition and constant encouragement can both go a long way. And they are part of the successful mix at a southern Dallas elementary school, where a "wheel of fortune" type spinning wheel in the hallway has its place in that budding success story, too.
"Our friends joining our team are going to spin for their house, and we're going to show them some love, OK," shouted Elisha M. Pease Elementary Principal Sharri Zachary on a recent Tuesday morning in a hallway filled with students.
"Give it a spin give it a good spin," Zachary said.
It's how they determine which of four houses, much like Harry Potter, each student will be in. With each spin – and each individual result – the students are given a boisterous welcome into their new family.
"We keep it pretty live around here. It's fun," Zachary said. "We have turned our campus around, so that makes it a very magical place for me."
This magical place is a campus where 98% of the students come from economically-disadvantaged families.
So, with the help of Dallas-based educational nonprofit United to Learn, programs like the House System encourage friendship, courage, and dreamers with big dreams.
Like Sir Erric Hatch from House Reveur.
"Well, it's a house of dreamers," the 5th grader said. "And my goals are to be a leader to the younger students in my house."
"It's the house of friendship and love," Kennide Pearson said of her place in House Amistad. "If you see somebody getting bullied, you can go tell a teacher," she said of the points system that rewards friendship and citizenship. "Helping out one another and complimenting each other."
"They celebrate each other," Zachary said. "They celebrate their teachers. So, it just really contributes to an overall positive culture and climate here. Internally, we're developing good citizens. Good students. Leaders. So United to Learn has helped us to provide the resources to make it all possible."
And on the day WFAA visited Pease Elementary, a big screen in the hallway showed that Kennide and Sir Erric were still racking up those House Points from a long list of good deeds.
"I hope to be a good leader and make good decisions in my life," Sir Erric said.
With the help of some very loud encouragement along the way. | 2022-09-14T00:04:08Z | www.wfaa.com | School uses 'House System' to build friendship, competition | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/education/schools/dallas-elementary-school-elisha-m-pease-elementary/287-4bd7c05b-ffd6-45a6-8620-89dd9a41bbf2 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/education/schools/dallas-elementary-school-elisha-m-pease-elementary/287-4bd7c05b-ffd6-45a6-8620-89dd9a41bbf2 |
Fort Worth City Council Members are scheduled to vote on a huge grant for The Violence Intervention & Prevention program known as VIP FW.
FORT WORTH, Texas — A grassroots program in Fort Worth is getting some much needed financial support from City leaders.
The Violence Intervention and Prevention Program targets neighborhoods like the Stop 6 area with hopes of reaching people more apt to be involved in criminal activities. The goal is to make sure crime doesn't feel at home in such neighborhoods.
Qutione Solomon serves as what’s known as an agent for VIP Fort Worth.
"My motto is be the change you want to see,” said Qutione Solomon.
After being involved in a lifestyle of gang activity for years and turning his life around, Qutione hopes to help others do the same. He's part of the Violence Intervention and Prevention program in Fort Worth and has since become a “Lead Agent”. Part of his responsibility is serving as a mentor to newer VIP agents.
Every time crime happens in the Stop 6 area, violent or non-violent, it disturbs him. That’s another reason he is out there trying to change the neighborhood from the inside out.
“Is this an unsettling feeling? Because being from where they're coming from, I kind of understand the headache. It's just missing a male role model or that strong figure,” said Solomon, “We deal with the ones everybody don't want. The 1% is what I call the real thugs or whatever you would like to say. So yeah, this is a very interesting work."
Qutione, affectionately known as Q in the Stop 6 area, owes surviving the streets to his mentor. Pastor Rodney McIntosh is one of the forces behind VIP. He started the program with many goals in mind that include helping young black men survive beyond the ages of 18 to 21 years old, reducing the number of funerals involving young people and even teaching young people that they can achieve college. But just stopping the homicide rate, non-fatal shootings and aggravated assaults is a measure of success alone for McIntosh.
The Fort Worth pastor does not mince words about who helps the program get to those people they are trying to reach. VIP is a grassroots program that recruits former gang members to help reduce violent crime, especially among youth headed down the wrong road.
Recently, VIP agents were able to help squash a disagreement among two groups of young people at odds with each other before it escalated to violence.
VIP agents also work to be visible in some of the area schools to serve as mentors, education cheerleaders and to be a presence, especially to male students who may not have role models.
McIntosh often remains a silent voice about what VIP agents do during the school year, but their work is impactful and even made a difference this past school year.
“The work that they did to some of the middle schools, to know that you know we were able to assist in keeping the violence down among youth and schools so the kids get a proper education, said Pastor Rodney McIntosh.
The Violence Intervention Program applied for a city grant for its' fiscal year 2023. Fort Worth City Council members are scheduled to vote during their Sept. 13, 2022 meeting to award VIP more than $622 thousand in grant money. That money will cover operating costs and help recruit more VIP mentors.
McIntosh also welcomes community donations for VIP. The grant will help VIP in 2023, but their goals to impact crime in Fort Worth go far beyond the budget.
McIntosh is grateful for the support from city leaders. He said he hopes to recruit even more support for people concerned about the future and the safety of neighborhoods hard hit by crime
Rodney McIntosh said, “Financial support is always needed.”
McIntosh is always recruiting volunteers to join their fight against crime. In addition to being a pastor, he is also a family man. Somehow, he finds the time to dedicate to the VIP Program while also taking care of his family which includes daddy and husband duties.
Now that he has a better grasp on life and has learned to help steer others in the right direction, Solomon said welcomes the help too, especially since they're getting a serious financial boost from city leaders willing to invest in VIP.
“It's major, because if the city we were working in isn't backing or having our backs, then it's like for nothing, right?” said Qutione Solomon.
The Violence Intervention and Prevention Program is somewhat just now beefing up it’s presence in the city due to hurdles during the pandemic. Solomon is also working to give VIP a bigger presence on social media like Facebook. | 2022-09-14T00:04:14Z | www.wfaa.com | Fort Worth grassroots program getting city funds to fight crime | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/grassroots-program-fight-crime-getting-big-bucks-city-grant-money/287-ffb84bce-f5b2-4c26-95d7-00d0cd9d7f89 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/grassroots-program-fight-crime-getting-big-bucks-city-grant-money/287-ffb84bce-f5b2-4c26-95d7-00d0cd9d7f89 |
Both sides made opening statements in the trial of a former Wolfe City police officer charged with murder. Shaun Lucas was arrested and charged in October of 2020.
HUNT COUNTY, Texas — It is one of the most high profile court cases in recent memory for Hunt County.
Opening statements started in the trial of a former Wolfe City police officer charged with murder. Shaun Lucas was arrested and charged in October 2020 after he shot and killed Jonathan Price.
The trial is held in the 354th Judicial District Court presided by Honorable Judge Keli Aiken of Hunt County. The court spent Monday and the early part of Tuesday selecting a jury.
Families for both were in court Tuesday as opening arguments were made. Lucas was dressed in a suit and tie. WFAA counted twelve jurors and what appears to be two or three alternates, the majority of which are women.
The state argued that on Oct. 3, 2020 Price was drunk but not aggressive when he met Lucas, who was called to respond to the scene of a fight. Through the course of the trial both sides are set to argue whether Price did reach for the officer's taser.
The defense is led by Toby Shook and Robert Rogers, the same attorneys for Dallas officer Amber Guyger. "Shaun Lucas gave 20 loud commands over 60 seconds. Jonathan Price followed zero of them," said Rogers during opening statements.
At the time, attorneys for Lucas said Price approached the officer and later refused repeated instructions. Price had physically resisted, forcing the officer to deploy his taser, according to attorneys. The attorney also said Price "attempted to take [the taser] away from Officer Lucas."
The Texas Rangers charged Lucas with murder and released a statement calling Lucas' actions "not objectionably reasonable." The Wolfe City Police Department said Lucas "was terminated for his egregious violation of the City's and police department's policies."
Sources told WFAA that more than two dozen witnesses are set to be called over the next several days. The jury will also see the body-worn camera belonging to Lucas. | 2022-09-14T01:35:44Z | www.wfaa.com | Shaun Lucas trial: Former Texas police officer accused of murder | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/trial-begins-former-hunt-county-texas-police-officer-accused-of-murder/287-6bdefdc9-8ea2-409c-b2e2-1f0fb867501e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/trial-begins-former-hunt-county-texas-police-officer-accused-of-murder/287-6bdefdc9-8ea2-409c-b2e2-1f0fb867501e |
One Arlington store owner told WFAA that the cost of shipping his product from overseas has more than doubled.
International Food Land in Arlington
At International Food Land in Arlington, owner Osama Rashid has felt inflation’s wrath over the past few decades.
It has never hurt him this badly.
“It started last year, but this year it got worse,” Rashid said. “It’s not fun. It forced us, after 30 years, to change the way we run our business,” Rashid said.
He’s having a difficult time keeping shelves stocked because everything is costing him more. Eighty percent of the product in his grocery store comes from overseas.
Rashid told WFAA that the cost of shipping his product has more than doubled. He’s paying twice as much for many of the food items in his store.
He cut down on labor and saw his profit dropped.
“We just pay our bills usually,” Rashid said.
Tuesday’s newly-released data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed inflation rose 0.1% in the month of August. During the month of August, inflation was up 8.3% over last year, slightly lower than July’s 8.5%, but still stubbornly high.
Core prices for food and energy jumped 0.6% higher from July to August.
Financial expert Derrick Kinney told WFAA that Tuesday’s inflation news had an immediate effect.
"That sent shockwaves across the entire stock market and sunk Wall Street to a recent all-time low,” Kinney said.
Record-high inflation means the federal reserve will likely raise rates once again next week, Kinney said.
“The fed wants to see a pattern. What they don’t wanna do is stop raising rates and then inflation actually comes back up again. That could really topple the entire economy into a recession,” Kinney said. “The fed is walking a very narrow tightrope. If they mess up, it could spell disaster for the economy.”
Rashid has tried to keep the prices of his goods at a fair price for his customers.
“We have to compete,” Rashid said. “I just want the business to stay open and keep my customers, so we’ll do whatever it takes to survive the time.”
He hopes pushing through this turbulent time will allow him to keep running the business his late father started. | 2022-09-14T03:06:49Z | www.wfaa.com | Inflation hitting international grocery stores in North Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/inflation-rising-food-costs-hitting-international-grocery-stores-north-texas/287-d1c22341-6f41-409a-8304-dfaf1ef93627 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/inflation-rising-food-costs-hitting-international-grocery-stores-north-texas/287-d1c22341-6f41-409a-8304-dfaf1ef93627 |
Visit Pensacola: The way to beach
This segment is sponsored by Visit Pensacola.
Imagine this – The weather is sunny and 75, you've got a piña colada in your hands while surrounded by the beautiful white sandy beaches and emerald waters of Pensacola.
All your worries have suddenly evaporated – This dream vacation is a lot closer than you think.
For more information, call 800.874.1234 or go to VisitPensacola.com. | 2022-09-14T17:49:21Z | www.wfaa.com | Visit Pensacola: The way to beach | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/visit-pensacola-the-way-to-beach/287-1a325fe0-a682-42cb-a985-1178b274c13b | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/visit-pensacola-the-way-to-beach/287-1a325fe0-a682-42cb-a985-1178b274c13b |
So far, at least five patients have experienced severe, life-threatening medical emergencies while undergoing routine surgical procedures at Surgicare between May and August, according to local attorneys representing patients and their families.
Reporters Tanya Eiserer and Ariel Plasencia contributed to this report.
Law enforcement searching for suspect after package explodes, injuring 1 at Boston campus | 2022-09-14T21:18:02Z | www.wfaa.com | Feds arrest Dallas doctor accused of tampering with IV bags | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/feds-arrest-doctor-accused-of-tampering-with-iv-bags-north-dallas/287-842c3384-461b-4a00-9ead-913a505b58fb | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/feds-arrest-doctor-accused-of-tampering-with-iv-bags-north-dallas/287-842c3384-461b-4a00-9ead-913a505b58fb |
Overgrown grass, damaged headstones and grave markers sinking in the ground are among issues families are complaining about at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery.
DALLAS — Some families are speaking out about conditions at a cemetery in southeast Dallas.
"It’s just sad," said Tabrasha Remmy.
People who have loved ones buried at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery are complaining about high grass, tall weeds, overgrown areas, shifting headstones, grave markers sinking into the ground and damaged trees among other issues.
“It looks abandoned. It looks like no one cares about it,” Devin Venters said.
Venters said his family’s owned plots at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery more than four decades. He began voicing concern to staff about the conditions in the cemetery after a recent visit.
"I was pissed off about the way this cemetery was being held. Because it doesn’t look pleasing at all. I’ve never seen it look like this," Venters explained.
Venters said staff wouldn’t give him any direct answers. He felt as if workers were brushing him off.
Venters took photos of the overgrown grass, damaged headstones and other problems he observed and shared them with his followers on social media. Many people also echoed frustration about conditions they also claim to have observed at that cemetery.
Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Dallas
"The most thing that hurt my heart the most, is that I could see someone’s liner that holds the casket. I could see the name of the lady in the ground. That really just did something to me. And it really didn’t sit well with me," Venters said.
Tabrasha Remmy and Levera Clay also complained about issues around the area where their loved ones are buried.
“I have some aunts above this wall, we can’t find them, and they have headstones. And we know where their plots are, but we’re having a hard time finding them,” Remmy said.
Remmy and Clay said the conditions around their family members’ plots get so bad, they often bring their own weed trimmers to clear the area.
A representative from Lincoln Funeral Home and Cemetery, general manager J. Kirby Pulliam, claims the issues at the cemetery are weather related. He said the problems are due to recent flooding. Pulliam said staff is working to address the issues.
“It’s always an issue out here. This has been going on since ’07. We’ve been complaining,” Remmy said.
Families said they want action. They said they will continue speaking out until the cemetery is cleaned and all problems effectively addressed.
”Just because our parents and loved ones have passed away, we still love them. And we still want them to be treated with dignity and respect, even in the afterlife,” Venters said. | 2022-09-15T00:37:50Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas families concerned over conditions of local cemetery | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/conditions-at-dallas-cemetery-have-some-families-demanding-answers/287-d111b404-9c0b-4258-919d-6f19fd3362fd | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/conditions-at-dallas-cemetery-have-some-families-demanding-answers/287-d111b404-9c0b-4258-919d-6f19fd3362fd |
The countdown clock is ticking as railroad union representatives in Fort Worth prepare to strike.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Some railroad union representatives in Fort Worth are warning that if workers go on strike some of the trains throughout the city will come to a stop right away.
They have also shared that some businesses will feel the impact right away.
Chris Bond is a railroad union member who has had the opportunity to be the voice of railroad workers. It's a job that Bond has been fond of over the years.
"Until the last few years, I loved my job," said Bond.
Bond has put in 25 years on the job. It's been three years since railroad employees had a raise.
They're also concerned about working conditions, according to Bond.
He says sometimes employees for the railroad are away from home and before they can earn days off, they are back on the train traveling out of town again. Bond also shared that right now some railroad companies are short employees and that's forcing more overtime and work days on current employees.
"These guys work, work, work, and they are hardly ever home," said Bond, "They are working non-stop and basically they want the right to have a life."
Bond testified in Washington, D.C., to gain support from Congress.
In Texas, railroad workers would strike at 11:01 p.m. Thursday night as part of nationwide protest.
That would mean trains coming to a halt right away.
Bond said, "I don't see them landing in the middle of downtown Fort Worth blocking everything up. But I can see them blocking some crossings somewhere."
As the negotiation deadline approaches, Biden administration officials have a Plan B which includes using semis, cargo ships and airplanes to keep goods moving.
But railroad workers believe a strike would still have a massive impact on commerce across the country.
"We move everything. We move grain, we move ethanol for gas. We can go on and on and on, consumer goods," said Bond.
Railroads have already cut back shipments of hazard materials and refrigerated products.
The Presidential Emergency Board offer includes a 24% raise, a $5,000 five-year bonus, a paid leave day and higher health insurance.
But all 12 railroads must agree on the final contract elements.
As the White House pressures both sides to settle their differences, Bond wants people to know that many of his follow coworkers would rather avoid a strike, but they are also persistent about the demands represented by union leaders handling the negotiations on their behalf. | 2022-09-15T00:37:56Z | www.wfaa.com | Fort Worth railroad workers are ready to strike | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-railroad-workers-ready-to-strike-nationwide-protest/287-e7263c0a-12df-43b5-ba4d-2658811d6d3c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-railroad-workers-ready-to-strike-nationwide-protest/287-e7263c0a-12df-43b5-ba4d-2658811d6d3c |
Roderick, 16, told WFAA he loved shoes while his story was taped at the home of the Dallas Mavericks. Well, he got a really big surprise!
DALLAS — Here's a happy update about a teenager WFAA featured as our Wednesday’s child last month in August.
Roderick has lived in foster care for five years and deeply desires a forever family. The Mavericks gave Roderick a taste of what home could feel like. In fact, before he left, they promised him a pair of shoes and an invitation to a game this fall.
RELATED: ‘All I want is someone to care for me’ | Wednesday’s Child 16-year-old wishes for a shot at a loving family
Tuesday, Sept. 13, they delivered on part of their promise. Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall delivered not one but 13 pairs of very nice basketball shoes for Roderick.
His reaction was priceless when he opened up the big box carrying all of his new shoes.
"What? What! Oh, my! What! Oh! Oh, my God! I love it!" he cried out. "Thank you, Dallas Mavericks!"
Roderick never expected this wonderful surprise after a long day of school. It's not easy to walk in his shoes, but at this moment -- it is.
"These right here, these my favorites 'cuz they glisten like a diamond,” he said about one pair of shoes.
“These right here, they got black and gold, my two favorite colors. Thank you. These some good shoes!" he said about another pair of shoes.
Roderick's CPS caseworker says he is still looking for his forever home and counting his blessings for random acts of kindness that renew his soul.
For more information on how to adopt Roderick, please send all approved home studies to LaQueena Warren at LaQueena.Warren@dfps.texas.gov. Please remember to include Roderick's name within the subject line.
For more Wednesday's Child stories and how to start the adoption process, click here.
Wednesday's Child, 16-year-old Jaydan, sets his dreams on acting and finding his forever family | 2022-09-15T00:38:02Z | www.wfaa.com | Wednesday's Child: Roderick, 16, surprised by Dallas Mavericks | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/outreach/wednesdays-child/dallas-mavs-surprise-16-year-old-wednesdays-child/287-045fc5fe-8489-4dee-8191-19e99e1cb5b7 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/outreach/wednesdays-child/dallas-mavs-surprise-16-year-old-wednesdays-child/287-045fc5fe-8489-4dee-8191-19e99e1cb5b7 |
One Saturday a month during baseball season, this team of eight musicians comes together from all over the state.
Author: Tiffany Liou
ARLINGTON, Texas — Performing for tens of thousands of people at Globe Life Field, Roger Martinez and his team are suiting up before the game.
"You hear the crowd roar every and that's just like 'Man, it's awesome,'" said Martinez.
They wear their Texas Rangers logo proudly, but not as baseball players, but as Mariachi de Los Texas Rangers.
Since 2018, they're first and only official Major League Baseball team mariachi band.
"It plays a huge factor in keeping the cultural Heritage, you know alive here, especially in DFW," said Martinez.
Half of these are from right here in the DFW area.
They start the day by hyping up the crowd at an event called Viva Tejas, right outside the stadium before the game.
It’s a way to recognize and empower the Hispanic community.
"Man, when there's a mariachi anywhere, everybody is happy," said Martinez.
Even in the summer heat – people can’t stop moving to the music.
With every breath and ounce of energy, Mariachi de los Texas Rangers – is exactly what a pre-game tailgate needs.
Then for 16 games a season, they head inside the stadium.
Rangers fans – experience mariachi, where the delicate strings on a harp and soft tones of a violin attack in bold style.
"I'm not very delicate like what you see in a violin, but we can show what other things we can do with a violin," said Cindy Cabrera
They share a colorful part of Mexican culture that’s been around for centuries.
It’s romantic, it’s suave and amplified for everyone to proudly see. | 2022-09-15T02:13:36Z | www.wfaa.com | Meet the Texas Rangers Mariachi band | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/la-vida/mariachi-de-los-texas-rangers/287-6d422ff9-ad0f-4ecf-b316-5155304fdd0b | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/la-vida/mariachi-de-los-texas-rangers/287-6d422ff9-ad0f-4ecf-b316-5155304fdd0b |
Reading scores at Nathan Adams Elementary have nearly doubled since the high school mentor program began.
DALLAS — Every student at Nathan Adams Elementary in Dallas has big dreams and even bigger obstacles.
The school is in a high poverty area, and more than half the students can’t read at grade level.
“If a child can’t read by third grade, it really holds them back and that means as far as into college,” said Nathan Adams community liaison Micaela Luna Gomez said.
So, to help students down the road, they looked down the road. Less than a mile away, many students at W.T. White High School’s Collegiate Academy want to be teachers.
Twice a week, they visit Nathan Adams to help read.
United to Learn, a nonprofit that brings together students and the community to improve education, started the program.
“I love working with these kids,” said senior mentor Silvia Garcia. “Being able to build that relationship inside the classroom, it’s great. I love it.”
“I was like them,” senior mentor Alison Arias said. “I can help them be better.”
When Arias immigrated from Honduras eight years ago, she couldn’t speak a word of English. Today, she’s not only fluent, but excelling in school.
Arias said if she came this far without a tutor, imagine how much further these students can go.
“My dreams can come true,” one student said.
And they are. Scores have gotten better – nearly doubled – and the future has gotten brighter.
Six-year-old Maya Leal wants to help people like the high school mentors have helped her.
“[I want to be] a tutor,” Leal said.
This program, though, was never just about reading. It’s about writing their own story, and writing thank you notes. The kids recently delivered cards to homes nearby, just to say thank you for being our neighbor.
“It just helps build a stronger community,” Garcia said.
“And the kids were able to work together with the tutors to do that,” Luna Gomez said. “So they’re learning that being part of something bigger than just your school is important.”
Communities thrive when everyone is united to learn.
For more information on United to Learn, visit https://www.unitedtolearn.org/. | 2022-09-15T14:53:58Z | www.wfaa.com | Elementary students thriving with guidance from high schoolers | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/community/unitedtolearn/nathan-adams-elementary-dallas-united-to-learn/287-1c06c8ad-d0b7-4b1c-b9ff-00a2d69fc74c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/community/unitedtolearn/nathan-adams-elementary-dallas-united-to-learn/287-1c06c8ad-d0b7-4b1c-b9ff-00a2d69fc74c |
Say Yes to You Table Talk – Dating more than one person at a time
It's almost cuffing season...that time of year when you walk through the falling leaves with your boo. But what if you have more than one?
These days more women than ever are doing what was once reserved for men - dating more than one person at a time - which presents some unique self-care challenges!
Keep up with the ladies on Instagram @IAmLadyJade, @JaneMcgarry, @HungreeHannah, and @TheLeahFrazier. | 2022-09-15T18:33:37Z | www.wfaa.com | Say Yes to You Table Talk – Dating more than one person at a time | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/say-yes-to-you-table-talk-dating-more-than-one-person-at-a-time/287-65f3be78-8605-4515-a303-f3cb55011171 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/say-yes-to-you-table-talk-dating-more-than-one-person-at-a-time/287-65f3be78-8605-4515-a303-f3cb55011171 |
It kicks off on Sept. 15, a day that marks Independence Day for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Credit: dsnovik - stock.adobe.com
TEXAS, USA — National Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15.
The month-long celebration recognizes the contributions of Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean.
Right here North Texas, there are several events being held in honor of Hispanic culture:
Hispanic Heritage Celebration Featuring Sunny Sauceda at Levitt Pavilion: The free concert event takes place on Sept. 17 at 5:30 p.m. There will be vendors, foods trucks, and music by San Antonio native and accordion Sunny Sauceda.
You can start celebrating Thursday, Sept. 15 at the AT&T Discovery District for the Hispanic Heritage Fiesta. Shop from local Hispanic and Latino vendors and dance to mariachis at 5:30 p.m.
Dallas Carnival Caribbean Festival: The 3-day event starts Thursday, Sept. 15 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 18. Don't miss the food, the music, the costumes and parade. Click here for tickets.
Flor, Canto, y Grito Festival: The event celebrating Hispanic heritage with poetry, music, and the ceremonial cry for independence takes place Friday, Sept. 16 at the Latino Cultural Center at 2600 Live Oak Street. Click here for details.
Mexican Independence Day Celebration at Reunion Tower: In celebration of Mexico's Independence Day on Friday, Sept. 16, Reunion Tower is hosting mariachi and folklore group Las Esrellas De Tejas for a performance from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Click here for details.
Latinidad Festival 2022 at Strauss Square: The event takes place at Strauss Square on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 5 p.m.
Move! For Hispanic Heritage Month at Omni Dallas Hotel: Attend one or both movement classes in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. On the schedule, we're featuring a 45-minute HIIT class with Alexis Cavo or a 45min beginner-friendly bachata class with Amanda Alvarez, and live tunes with DJ Honey T!
The first 100 guests will also receive a FREE workout mat from BODYARMOR.
This event takes place Saturday, Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. (HIIT with Alexis Cavo) and 11 a.m. (Beginner-friendly bachata class with Amanda Alvarez).
Denton County Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration: The event kicks of Saturday, Sept. 22 at the Denton County Historical Commission. Celebrate with a special musical performance by Mariachi Rosas Divinas. Click here for more.
¡Celebramos! A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage at Fort Worth Botanic Garden: The free event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 17 at the BRIT Building. You can learn about the history of Quinceañeras, view an introduction of multiple Quinceañera participants, with beautiful ballgowns and accompanied by their chambeláns. Click here for details.
Mexico en la Sangre Cultural Celebration at Cowtown Coliseum: The event kicks off Sunday, Sept. 18 at the Fort Worth Stockyards with a parade, horses, music and more. For ticket information, click here.
16 de Septiembre Celebration at Texas Lottery Plaza: The free event, for all ages, takes place on Friday, Sept. 16 from 6 p.m. to midnight. You can hear four live bands, stop by vendors and more. Click here for details.
Mexico Independence Day concert at Legacy Hall: Celebrate with a free live performance by Lara Latin, mariachi and more on Friday, Sept. 16 at Legacy Hall. Click here for details.
Un poco de historia: La independencia de 5 países centroamericanos marca el inicio del mes de la Herencia Hispana en EE. UU. | 2022-09-15T22:04:34Z | www.wfaa.com | Hispanic Heritage Month events in Dallas-Fort Worth | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/events-celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-in-dfw/287-ff439cc3-4558-418b-9df1-e4fe74e23e27 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/events-celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-in-dfw/287-ff439cc3-4558-418b-9df1-e4fe74e23e27 |
Firefighters working on fire at Southlake home
“We certainly are very, very happy to see fewer cases of infections,” Prism Health North Texas CEO Dr. John Carlo said. “However, that shouldn't stop our awareness."
DALLAS — Data shows a decline in monkeypox cases across Dallas and Tarrant counties.
“What we're seeing right now, I think, is good news,” said Prism Health North Texas CEO Dr. John Carlo.
Prism Health received 300 monkeypox vaccine doses from Dallas County in August and has been administering shots over the past month.
“Particularly in the last couple of weeks, we've noticed far fewer patients coming in that are having symptoms consisting with MPV or monkeypox," Dr. Carlo said.
Dallas County data shows just 30 monkeypox cases were reported from Sept. 6-13.
Looking back at the numbers for August, there were days the county was reporting over 20 cases daily.
“We certainly are very, very happy to see fewer cases of infections, which is a great thing,” Dr. Carlo said. “However, that shouldn't stop our awareness and the importance of receiving the vaccine if you are in the groups that are indicated and really maintaining that vigilance overall in our community.”
RELATED: How do you get a monkeypox vaccine in Texas?
So what’s causing the drop in cases?
Dr. Carlo said it could be that enough people have gotten vaccinated so there’s immunity in the community. He added it also could be the declining number of “summertime events that have been large gatherings in places where we have seen a lot of MPV cases happening” this time of year.
Tarrant County health officials are noticing a trend in monkeypox cases, too. During his monkeypox update presentation Tuesday, public health director Vinny Taneja told county commissioners it’s "starting to look like we’re leveling out."
Tarrant County is reporting 17 monkeypox cases for all of last week. That's down from the 27 cases that were reported for the week ending Sept. 3.
Taneja said he estimates between 2,500-3,000 monkeypox vaccine doses have been administered in the county.
"Overall the work is continuing on and seemingly we’re stabilizing on that outbreak here in the county," said Taneja.
While this is good news, health officials don’t want the community to let its guard down.
“We've got to stay focused on how we can prevent cases from happening," Dr. Carlo said. “We really want to stay guarded about the potential that cases could go right back up again."
For information on how to get a monkeypox vaccine in Dallas County, click here.
For information on how to get a monkeypox vaccine in Tarrant County, click here.
For more information on Prism Health, click here. | 2022-09-15T23:43:03Z | www.wfaa.com | Monkeypox cases: Dallas and Tarrant counties showing decline | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/health/monkeypox/monkeypox-cases-in-dallas-tarrant-counties/287-987aa641-963c-455c-baff-e174df3a7ca1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/health/monkeypox/monkeypox-cases-in-dallas-tarrant-counties/287-987aa641-963c-455c-baff-e174df3a7ca1 |
The allegations surround W. W. Samuell High School, an attorney for the auditor said.
Andrea Whelan asks to be reinstated and given her job back at a hearing Thursday.
DALLAS, Texas — A former Dallas Independent School District auditor asked to be reinstated after alleging the district terminated her for uncovering 'grade changing and attendance manipulation' within its classrooms.
The former auditor and manager of Investigative Services within the district's Office of Internal Audit, Andrea Whelan, appealed her termination during a grievance hearing before select board members Thursday afternoon.
The board members listened to Whelan's attorney, Austin Campbell, who levied the allegations on Whelan's behalf.
"Ms. Whelan was fired in retaliation for protected activity under the Texas Whistleblower Act," Campbell said.
"In 2021, Ms. Whelan uncovered evidence of grade and attendance manipulation within the district, including at Samuell High School."
Campbell continued saying the grade and attendance manipulation meant the district was getting more funding than it was legally allowed to receive from state and federal governments.
"This included situations where the principal of Samuell High School was directing the changing of grades--including giving passing grades to students who performed no work," Campbell said.
Campbell added that the Office of Internal Audit continuously re-wrote Whelan's drafts for an official report to 'eliminate details, reverse findings, and generally minimize any sort of discussion of illegal conduct regarding grade and attendance manipulation in her reports.'
Whelan eventually filed a complaint with the Texas Education Agency about what was happening on March 7 of this year, Campbell added.
He said it was clear the termination was retaliation after Whelan complained to the TEA.
It's unclear whether the Texas Education Agency took action regarding Whelan's complaint. WFAA reached out to a spokesperson for comment.
Whelan was fired on March 30 by the district.
Campbell also asked that Whelan receive backpay alongside her reinstatement.
The allegations are serious, coming from a high-level manager within the district whose duty is to be a watchdog for Dallas ISD.
Andrea Whelan (left) and her attorney Austin Campbell.
But the district got a chance to reply to Whelan's claims during the hearing, saying Whelan's termination was solely based on poor performance, not retaliation.
Attorney Kathryn Long, outside counsel for the district, argued that Whelan's 'performance failures' hindered the district from 'timely, efficiently, objectively, and reliably determining whether there were any grade problems at Samuell High School that required correction.'
"It was her performance failures that led to that," Long said.
Long added that the district also communicated with Whelan about her poor performance weeks before she filed her complaint with the TEA.
"One week before she made any report--she received a written reprimand and was placed on an intervention plan. The reprimand notified Whelan that if her performance issues continued, it would result in further adverse employment action including termination," Long said.
"She was terminated because she didn't efficiently complete her reports, her reports failed to adhere to an investigative and auditing standard, and she emailed confidential information to her personal email account, which is illegal."
Attorney Kathryn Long makes her statements on behalf of the district.
Campbell countered, however, that sending investigatory work to a personal email was necessary during the pandemic when the Office of Internal Audit was working remotely.
Long told board members that the Office of Internal Audit budgeted 56 hours of labor for the investigation and that Whelan took seven months or 486.25 hours to do a forensic look at what was happening.
Whelan responded as to why it took her so long to do the investigation when board members asked her about it.
"It was difficult to get reports or material that would allow me to hone in on what I wanted to look at based on the allegation," Whelan said.
"Records intensive investigations take time--especially for a single investigator."
Long said what Whelan uncovered wasn't 'grade changes or attendance manipulation' either.
"What the principal was trying to do was not deal with grade changes but with credit recovery," Long added. "Trying to get students to complete courses or graduation--particularly in pandemic conditions."
Board members overseeing the hearing asked questions but not about what Whelan found--more or less how she did her job and communicated with the OIA.
A vote was taken after about 45 minutes--and the board denied Whelan's grievance.
It's unclear whether Whelan will take further legal action against the district.
"She's been an employee for a long time, she's made a lot of contributions to the district, and I think this is the wrong decision," Campbell said after the hearing.
"I was terminated because Mr. Rubel (DISD's chief auditor) didn't want to do his job and identify problems I had found in my investigations," Whelan said.
It's unclear if what Whelan found was substantiated or corroborated by the district.
Board Trustee Joyce Foreman said she had wished more board members had asked about Whelan's investigation.
"I want to see her report," Foreman said.
Audit Department Nightmares
Dallas ISD has had a tough go with its audit department for some time.
If Whelan's name sounds familiar--it's because she spoke to WFAA in 2018 about irregularities she discovered within the district that she claimed were ignored.
Whelan was a former investigator for the Dallas IRS office and conducted numerous tax crime investigations that resulted in hundreds of convictions over her 25-year tenure.
She believed then that DISD retaliated against her and another former employee for reporting possible bid splitting on construction projects that led to taxpayers not getting the best bang for their buck.
Whelan left the district after she said she was mandated remedial training.
“I was pretty much back to trainee status,” Whelan told WFAA at the time. “I pretty much couldn't walk or chew gum at the same time at that point.”
After WFAA reported Whelan's findings--Dallas ISD offered Whelan's job back to her.
In 2020, Chief Auditor Steven Martin made headlines after finding potential contractor overpayments and calling for two state agencies to review his findings for accuracy and possible criminal violations.
He resigned after his credibility was questioned. At the time--the potential overpayments totaled $1.7M.
Former Dallas ISD auditor who found $300K in overpayments asks TEA and Texas auditor to review his findings
Top chief auditor to resign after Dallas ISD 'investigated the investigator'
Auditor who found Dallas ISD overpaid contractors tells school board to not 'investigate the investigator'
United to Learn's Aspiring Teachers program partnering with Dallas College | 2022-09-16T02:57:37Z | www.wfaa.com | Former DISD auditor says she was fired finding grade manipulation | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/education/auditor-says-she-was-fired-uncovering-grade-attendance-manipulation-dallas-isd/287-28dd20ed-8724-4502-8a25-e8be6cf7fd09 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/education/auditor-says-she-was-fired-uncovering-grade-attendance-manipulation-dallas-isd/287-28dd20ed-8724-4502-8a25-e8be6cf7fd09 |
DALLAS — Dr. Raynaldo Ortiz made his first appearance in federal court Friday morning since he was arrested Wednesday.
He's accused of tampering with IV bags at Baylor Scott & White Surgicare North Dallas which resulted in multiple patients suffering medical emergencies after undergoing routine surgeries and the death of a fellow anesthesiologist at the center who'd taken a bag home in June to treat her dehydration.
That doctor, Dr. Melanie Kaspar, passed away after suffering a cardiac event almost immediately after administering the IV, according to a report from the Texas Medical Board.
Kaspar's husband, John Kaspar, attended Friday's hearing.
Ortiz went before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee Tolliver, after waiting nearly two hours Friday morning for his hearing. As he waited, he sat with his hands in his lap and his head bowed down only looking up to survey the room every now and then and to speak briefly with his attorney. | 2022-09-16T23:53:07Z | www.wfaa.com | North Texas doctor accused of IV bags tampering appears in court | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/north-texas-doctor-accused-of-tampering-with-iv-bags-makes-first-court-appearance-since-arrest/287-f9c1cda1-7b41-4d19-b38d-1f368315e149 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/north-texas-doctor-accused-of-tampering-with-iv-bags-makes-first-court-appearance-since-arrest/287-f9c1cda1-7b41-4d19-b38d-1f368315e149 |
Fort Worth PD hopes its public service announcement encourages family talks about the seriousness of making a school threat.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Parents of school-aged children are urged to watch a public service announcement being revived by the Fort Worth Police Department. The main message: to encourage conversation about the seriousness of school threats.
Reviving the PSA couldn't come at a better time because just this week, Fort Worth police arrested a student for a school threat. The student claimed it was just a joke.
Fort Worth School Resource Officer Ethan Judd is on multiple campuses some days. He's passionate about keeping students and teachers safe. So, it was a no-brainer when his boss recruited him for their PSA.
In the announcement, Judd says, "Threats to a school are illegal. This can cause schools to go on lockdown while students and staff shelter in place."
Due to the recent school shootings, like the one in Uvalde, police departments across the country have adopted zero-tolerance policies when it comes to school threats. That means using the resources they have to investigate each and every threat until they can determine there is no threat.
"We treat every single threat as if it is credible. From the get-go, we immediately begin examination, call in resources," said Judd.
Judd hopes parents will teach their children the seriousness of making a school threat.
A student, who was recently taken into custody over a school threat told Judd that the threat was a joke. That did not stop law enforcement's investigation, which included ruling out the student didn't intend harm and had no weapons at home.
"We made contact with the student and placed him under arrest, took them into custody," Judd said. "Any way that a threat is communicated, whether it's a verbal, written, social media video, text message. Any way that you can communicate... if they make a threat of that nature, it will be completely and fully investigated by us."
Recent cases also include a Trinity High School student who was arrested after classmates overheard a school threat.
RELATED: Euless Trinity High School given all clear after 15-year-old arrested for bomb threat
In another case, Arlington officers responded after a threat at Timberview High School.
Even if students don't intend a threat to be taken serious, the cause and effect are great, according to investigators who work to discredit the threat.
"They cause a lot of panic. They cause a lot of frustration. They cause a lot of worry. In this time where everyone's mental health is strained from COVID, from just crime and everything going on, everybody wants to feel secure," said Judd.
In the PSA, Judd also explains what a threat may involve:
"A person commits a school threat when they threaten any violence against any person or property with the intent to place anyone in fear."
Federal authorities are also dealing with school threat including "swatting," which involves multiple fake threats just to spark police responses. The FBI released a statement saying it will continue to gather, share and act upon threat information.
Judd wants students to continue to report suspicious activities, comments and information to school authorities, their parents and trusted school resource officers like himself. He also hopes the PSA results in many students and parents talking about what and what not to post or re-post online. | 2022-09-16T23:53:31Z | www.wfaa.com | Fort Worth police: school threats PSA | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-police-school-threats-psa/287-35769511-258b-41b4-a993-7b06a11968f5 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-police-school-threats-psa/287-35769511-258b-41b4-a993-7b06a11968f5 |
The district said officers have responded to reports across several campuses, from staff and parents of students.
MANSFIELD, Texas — Mansfield Independent School District police are investigating several reports of catalytic converters being stolen from cars on campuses.
The district said officers have responded to several reports across several campuses, from staff and parents of students.
"In light of the rash of thefts, officers will be keeping a particularly close eye on any suspicious activity in district parking lots in the coming days," the district said in a letter to parents on Friday.
The news comes as North Texas has seen an increase in catalytic converter thefts.
Stealing a catalytic converter can take as little as 30 seconds, officials said. The parts are highly sought after due to the metals they contain.
According to AAA Texas, catalytic converter theft claims are up 5,300% since 2019. In Texas, Dallas and Tarrant counties are in the top five for most thefts.
Replacing the parts could cost someone anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000, AAA said.
Here are tips to prevent or discourage thieves from targeting your car:
Park in a well-lit area. If you're at home, park in the garage if you have one.
Make sure your vehicle is as visible as possible to as many people as possible at all times.
Etch your license plate number or VIN onto your catalytic converter. This could help a scrap dealer determine if it was stolen and make it easier to identify the owner.
Paint your catalytic converter to deter buyers.
Replacing catalytic converters could be expensive. Check to see if your insurance covers it.
You won't be able to immediately tell if your catalytic converter was stolen just by looking at your car, but you'll know once you start the engine. Officials said that when the parts have been removed, the vehicle will make a loud roaring sound that becomes louder as you push the gas pedal. | 2022-09-17T02:02:41Z | www.wfaa.com | Mansfield ISD warns of increased catalytic converters thefts | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/mansfield-isd-warns-increased-catalytic-converters-thefts-on-campuses/287-0d3729d4-ec76-4f82-a317-d0b4231e7b46 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/mansfield-isd-warns-increased-catalytic-converters-thefts-on-campuses/287-0d3729d4-ec76-4f82-a317-d0b4231e7b46 |
Canelo Alvarez is set to face off against Gennadiy Golovkin in the main event Saturday night on DAZN pay-per-view. Ring walks are expected at 10 p.m. CST.
DALLAS — Editor's note: Associated Press sports writer Greg Beacham contributed to this article.
On Saturday night in Las Vegas, WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, and The Ring champion Canelo Alvarez is set to face off against WBA and IBF champion Gennadiy Golovkin in the main event Saturday night on DAZN pay-per-view.
The fight marks a trilogy of bouts between Alvarez and Golovkin, including a middleweight title unification bout in September 2017, which ended in a draw, and the rematch nearly one year later, with Alvarez winning by an epic 12-round bout by majority decision (114–114, 115–113, 115–113). Many observers without an official scorecard believe Golovkin deserved the win in one or both of the fights.
Alvarez and Golovkin are meeting as super middleweights this time, with Golovkin moving up from 160 to 168 pounds for the first time in his career. Álvarez collected all four major 168-pound world titles in a one-year span ending late last year, and his comfort at the higher weight is a factor in his favor.
Here is the rest of the the pay-per-view fight card for the Canelo Alvarez vs. Gennadiy Golovkin 3:
You can certainly order the pay-per-view on DAZN ... or you can head out to numerous spots in the Dallas area to catch the fight. Here is a list of watch parties we've found online (Note: Some venues may have cover charges. We'd advise contacting the venue prior to arriving for further details.):
Longhorn Icehouse
Social House at Champions Park
Hangout Sports Bar!
Benders Sports and Spirits
El Barranco ATV Park
BoomerJack's Grill
Knockout Sports Bar Fort Worth
Shakertins–The Colony
Shakertins–Plano
Shakertins–Prosper
Shakertins–Allen
OTW Mansfield Social Pub
Super Mix Lewisville | 2022-09-17T16:39:46Z | www.wfaa.com | Canelo vs. GGG: Where to watch in Dallas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/canelo-ggg-dallas-watch/287-b3dbc5e2-4e37-468f-b03e-25888bc454ac | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/canelo-ggg-dallas-watch/287-b3dbc5e2-4e37-468f-b03e-25888bc454ac |
Police said the suspects left the scene before officers got there. They were both taken into custody less than 12 hours after the shooting.
HALTOM CITY, Texas — Police say two suspect have been taken into custody in connection to a deadly shooting in Haltom City overnight. The department credits other local law enforcement for helping them with the investigation and one of the arrests.
On Sunday, dispatchers got calls from witnesses saying there was a disturbance outside and two people were shot.
Police were called to the 1900 block of Bernice Street at 1:55 a.m. They found two men dead at the scene. The victims have not been publicly identified.
According to Haltom City police, the suspects fled before officers got there. They continued to investigate the scene while Fort Worth police helped as security.
Officers say the two were in police custody by noon on Sunday.
Haltom City officers, detectives and evidence technicians identified two men connected to the shooting and arrested one of them that morning. The other was taken into custody by the Haltom City SWAT team and police from North Richland Hills.
The suspects and their charges won't be identified until they're called into court. Police are continuing to investigate, so there may be additional arrests and/or charges.
MEDIA ADVISORY/NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release September 18, 2022 CFS # 22H29128 - Shooting On Sunday, September...
Posted by Haltom City Police Department on Sunday, September 18, 2022
Authorities report rise of 'jugging' robberies | 2022-09-18T19:52:27Z | www.wfaa.com | Shooting in Haltom City, Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/haltom-city-texas-deadly-shooting-bernice-street-september-18-2022-suspects-arrested/287-f2d60680-3e30-42bf-bc4e-1ec71f0d06ed | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/haltom-city-texas-deadly-shooting-bernice-street-september-18-2022-suspects-arrested/287-f2d60680-3e30-42bf-bc4e-1ec71f0d06ed |
Police in North Texas are asking for the public's help identifying several vehicles involved in hit-and-run accidents with cyclists and pedestrians.
DALLAS — Police are asking the public's help for information about a driver that recently left a bicyclist injured at the scene.
Fort Worth police said the accident happened around 12:24 a.m. on East Lancaster Road near the southbound entrance ramp of N. South Freeway on Monday, Sept. 19.
The victim is in critical condition. Investigators are working to identify the driver of the vehicle who hit the cyclist.
“They have no regard for us,” said Fort Worth resident Mel Little.
Little said he’s not surprised to hear of another hit-and-run involving a cyclist in the area. He said he knows of two additional hit-and-run accidents in the past week.
“It’s real bad. We follow the rules. So everybody else should follow the rules too,” said Little.
Investigators do not have many details about Monday’s incident. They could use some leads.
“We’re asking anyone if they were around at that time, please reach out to us. We need to find out where this car is, or who was driving this car,” said Fort Worth Officer Tracy Carter.
Hit-and-run accidents are becoming too common across North Texas.
Over the weekend, the Dallas Police Department (DPD) arrested Kenneth Lloyd Connors, III. Investigators believe he’s the driver of a white SUV that left the scene after crashing into and killing a man cycling along Kleberg Road last week.
RELATED: Suspect arrested after hit-and-run crash that killed cyclist in Dallas
DPD also released a photo of a black SUV on Monday. They believe it to be the type of vehicle a hit-and-run suspect was driving when crashing into and killing a man who was walking across North Hampton Road on Sunday.
At the same time, investigators are asking for help identifying the driver of a black Hyundai with front end damage. Officers believe the vehicle seen in photos they released belongs to another hit-and-run suspect who killed a pedestrian on South Denley Drive last Tuesday.
RELATED: Woman hit, killed by vehicle as suspect attempted to shoot others, Dallas police say
“We’re just asking people just to be vigilant. Be careful. Watch your surroundings," said Officer Carter.
Police and some residents are reminding drivers there are consequences for failing to stop and render aid.
“We’re all human. We’re all trying to get somewhere. We all need to be safe," said Little. | 2022-09-19T23:02:45Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas and Fort Worth police: Rise in hit-and-run accidents | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dfw-hit-and-run-crashes-leave-cyclists-critically-injured-killed/287-e4955d56-27f5-4fc2-ad84-758af630fe03 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/dfw-hit-and-run-crashes-leave-cyclists-critically-injured-killed/287-e4955d56-27f5-4fc2-ad84-758af630fe03 |
On Monday, the defense showed parts of surveillance video from Oct 3, 2020.
HUNT COUNTY, Texas — It is one of the most high-profile court cases in recent memory for Hunt County. Opening statements started in the trial of a former Wolfe City police officer charged with murder.
Shaun Lucas was arrested and charged in October 2020 after he shot and killed Jonathan Price.
The trial is being held in the 354th Judicial District Court presided by Honorable Judge Keli Aiken of Hunt County.
On Monday, the defense showed parts of surveillance video from Oct 3, 2020. It shows a man leaving the Kwick Chek convenience store, bearhugging Price and then fighting with him. Several people call 911, and when Lucas showed up, the defense says, a man with a hat started arguing with Price.
Prosecutors say Lucas used his taser gun on Price and then moments later, shot and killed him.
RELATED: Who is Jonathan Price?
Wolfe City Police Sgt. Jarred Hayes, who was on scene, testified Monday.
In court he told prosecutors, “Price smelled like alcohol, but was not aggressive to anyone.”
The defense asked Hayes, "Did you have a problem when Lucas shot Price?"
Hayes replies, "I had a problem that he shot Jonathan Price."
The defense then asked, "Why didn’t you tell the Texas Rangers during your interview?"
WFAA also heard from Chase Reed, who was at the store buying ice and saw Lucas after he used his taser.
Reed told jurors, “Jonathan was not full speed. There are a lot more things the cop could’ve done than shoot him.”
Price’s childhood friend, Nicholas Crockett also told jurors what he saw during his trip to the store.
“I saw Lucas say to Jonathan, 'I said come here.' He used a taser to hit him in the backside. Stumbled down the stair. Lost his balance. Reached out to catch himself, and he was shot. Price lays out, and Officer Lucas handcuffs him,” said Crockett.
Jonathan Kindad, a volunteer firefighter is giving testimony now. "Jonathan needed all the help he can get." "Are you ok? Price: No no, they just shot me. Kindad: He had a hole under his left arm pit.
Kindad left the courtroom in tears. Price family is in the hallway hugging him https://t.co/PH0GzkqgfQ
WFAA counted 12 jurors and what appears to be two or three alternates, the majority of which are women.
The state argued that on Oct. 3, 2020 Price was drunk but not aggressive when he met Lucas, who was called to respond to the scene of a fight. Through the course of the trial, both sides are set to argue whether Price did reach for the officer's taser.
The defense is led by Toby Shook and Robert Rogers, the same attorneys for former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger.
"Shaun Lucas gave 20 loud commands over 60 seconds. Jonathan Price followed zero of them," said Rogers during opening statements.
RELATED: Entire interaction between Jonathan Price, Officer Shaun Lucas captured by body camera, affidavit says
At the time, attorneys for Lucas said Price approached the officer and later refused repeated instructions. Price had physically resisted, forcing the officer to deploy his taser, according to attorneys.
The attorney also said Price "attempted to take [the taser] away from Officer Lucas."
The Texas Rangers charged Lucas with murder and released a statement calling Lucas' actions "not objectionably reasonable."
The Wolfe City Police Department said Lucas "was terminated for his egregious violation of the City's and police department's policies." | 2022-09-20T00:44:46Z | www.wfaa.com | The murder of Jonathan Price: Former Wolfe City officer on trial | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/testimony-begins-murder-trial-shaun-lucas-for-killing-jonathan-price-wolfe-city/287-38a9ad71-a434-484e-b40f-2b1848710176 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/testimony-begins-murder-trial-shaun-lucas-for-killing-jonathan-price-wolfe-city/287-38a9ad71-a434-484e-b40f-2b1848710176 |
Police said the suspect fled from the scene in a 2018 (or later) silver-colored Jeep.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Fort Worth police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man wanted in connection to a bank robbery last week.
Around 3:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, police said a man entered the Unity One Credit Union located at 4625 N. Tarrant Parkway and presented a note demanding cash to an employee.
Police said the employee complied, and then the suspect fled from the credit union in a 2018 (or later) silver-colored Jeep.
Police released the following surveillance photos, hoping someone recognizes the suspect. If you have any information concerning this crime or the suspect’s identity and location, call the Fort Worth Police Department at 817-988-8563.
Auto experts, North Texas police officers share how to prevent catalytic converter thefts
Man arrested, charged with multiple bank robberies in DFW, officials say | 2022-09-20T02:21:12Z | www.wfaa.com | Fort Worth police: Bank robbery suspect search | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/fort-worth-police-bank-robbery-suspect-search/287-51c27203-138a-4a42-8a9b-18c388b27b5f | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/fort-worth-police-bank-robbery-suspect-search/287-51c27203-138a-4a42-8a9b-18c388b27b5f |
CEDAR HILL, Texas — Ken and Mistee Salter were made for each other… and Friday nights.
“We’ve been looking forward to Fridays since high school,” Ken explained..
Ken and Mistee were high school sweethearts at DeSoto.
“He was different,” Mistee smiled. “He wasn’t like all the other boys.”
Ken was a star on the Eagles football team, and Mistee was always there on Friday nights to support him.
“[I had to] get out there and make sure she heard my name called on the loudspeaker,” Ken joked. “She didn’t want to be there supporting no scrub.”
“Oh God, I didn’t know anything about football then,” Mistee chimed in. “It was all about support. Just being there for him.”
It’s been that way ever since. Come November, the Salters will celebrate 18 years of marriage.
“And five kids,” Mistee added. “Now we just get excited to go to bed.”
Ken and Mistee have three sons and two daughters. Their youngest two are in high school at Cedar Hill.
“I know a lot of kids growing up don’t have that but they need it,” admitted Cedar Hill senior Kylan Salter, Ken and Mistee’s youngest son.
“When I look at them, all I can do is smile,” Mistee said. “Because I know what they’ve been through. I’ve seen their tears.”
RELATED: 'He's our Superman': Family of Texas high school star QB Kaidon Salter continues to pray as their father, husband battles COVID-19 in a Tennessee ICU
On Jan. 17, 2021, Ken and Mistee were side by side at AT&T Stadium as their middle son, Kaidon, starred for Cedar Hill in the Texas UIL Class 6A Division II state championship game.
Despite Kaidon running for two touchdowns, the Longhorns lost to Katy, 51-14. Kaidon's high school career was officially over.
The next day, the entire Salter family (minus the eldest brother Kenneth) drove more than 12 hours to Knoxville, Tennessee.
Kaidon was one of the top quarterback recruits in the country and enrolled early to play for the Tennessee Volunteers.
However, their road trip coincided with surging COVID cases throughout the country.
Shortly after they arrived in Knoxville, all four Salter children tested positive for COVID-19. Mistee tested negative.
"I'm trying to stay strong for the kids," Mistee told WFAA in late Jan. 2021, as she sat isolated in a hotel room. "I’m trying to keep it together for them. Put on my ‘It's okay’ face and 'Everything is going to be just fine.'"
Everything was not fine.
Her husband, Ken, could barely breathe.
Mistee rushed him to UT Medical Center where he was immediately admitted and given oxygen.
“From that point on, it just kept going downhill,” Ken recalled.
Ken had a severe case of COVID-19. Doctors urged Ken to go on a ventilator.
“And that was that final conversation,” Ken said, regarding the doctors’ advice. “You either gotta go on this ventilator or you’re gonna sit in here and you’re gonna pass away.”
Ken eventually acquiesced and went on a ventilator. But due to COVID protocols at the time, Mistee could only watch from the sidelines.
“I couldn’t touch him, I couldn’t kiss him, I couldn’t hug him,” Mistee said. “I had to stand there six-feet away from him and tell him how much I loved him.”
Days went by. According to the doctors, Ken was the sickest patient in the hospital.
He needed to have his right lung removed and he had to go on an ECMO – a second life-support machine.
Mistee vividly remembers going to see Ken before the procedure.
“It felt like I was going to say goodbye,” Mistee admitted.
Weeks went by. Ken was on life support and unable to communicate with Mistee.
Mistee remained in Knoxville during the duration of Ken’s battle with COVID and ensuing complications.
“I had to continuously tell them, ‘Ma’am, Sir, I cannot go home,’” Mistee asserted. “‘He is my home. There is no home, if he’s here [in Knoxville].’”
Back in Cedar Hill, their oldest son Kenneth looked after the younger siblings including Kylan.
“I was just waiting patiently, knowing he was gonna make it through,” Kylan remembered.
Doctors told Mistee that the hospital had never had a COVID patient go on the ECMO life support machine and survive.
Ken was the first.
After 89 days in a hospital 900 miles from home, Ken was released.
“I told them I’m not staying in this hospital another day,” Ken laughed.
Ken and Mistee returned home to Cedar Hill in May 2021 and received a warm drive-by celebration from friends and family.
“Tomorrow is not promised,” Ken said. “With my [sons], every time I talk to them, they say, ‘I love you, Dad’ now.”
The Salters are living life to the fullest.
Ken and Mistee became grandparents for the first time this past summer.
Kaidon is now a star quarterback at Liberty University and thriving in the classroom. (He was dismissed from the Tennessee program in June 2021 after two run-ins with law enforcement.)
Despite an ACL injury preventing him from playing his senior season at Cedar Hill, the Salter’s youngest son, Kylan, has made his family proud.
“He’s put in so much work and to see it pay off is just amazing,” Ken beamed.
This summer, the three-star linebacker announced his college commitment to TCU.
Feeling froggy! #COMMITED pic.twitter.com/RBRYP4AHYY
— Kylan Salter (@kylansalter) July 29, 2022
“Every moment I get, I want to spend it with my family,” Kylan said.
Kylan will be staying close to home and to continue playing in front of mom and dad.
“He plays like he’s got something to prove,” Mistee said. “And he does it all for his dad.”
Homeward found: Tim Martin's nomadic journey from homeless father to world-renown basketball trainer | 2022-09-20T03:53:23Z | www.wfaa.com | Cedar Hill couple grateful after near-death experience | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/features/originals/cedar-hill-high-school-sweethearts-new-lease-on-life-near-death-experience/287-48cd8162-f6b6-4913-91cb-7d4eb7947d69 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/features/originals/cedar-hill-high-school-sweethearts-new-lease-on-life-near-death-experience/287-48cd8162-f6b6-4913-91cb-7d4eb7947d69 |
Dallas Casa Volunteer Advocates Needed
This segment is sponsored by Crest Auto Group.
It's hard to imagine: A child removed from their home because of neglect or abuse and put into the foster care system.
It's important these children have an advocate in the courtroom and community so they can grow up in safe, permanent homes and thrive.
Dallas casa needs volunteers who reflect the diversity of children in the child welfare system.
For more information, go to DallasCasa.org or CrestCars.com. | 2022-09-20T16:56:01Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Casa Volunteer Advocates Needed | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/dallas-casa-volunteer-advocates-needed/287-e8a4d534-d7de-4195-b1ad-857a45d106d5 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/dallas-casa-volunteer-advocates-needed/287-e8a4d534-d7de-4195-b1ad-857a45d106d5 |
Top reasons people stay away from the dentist
This segment is sponsored by Mint Dentistry.
Here's a startling statistic... According to USA Today, nearly one in three Americans have not been to the dentist since before the pandemic, and many others haven’t been in several years.
We have all kinds of excuses, including money, but true wealth is good health, and the importance of good basic oral care can catch things early before it takes an even bigger bite out of your wallet.
For more information, call 214.821.6468 or go to MintDentistry.com. | 2022-09-20T16:56:26Z | www.wfaa.com | Top reasons people stay away from the dentist | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/top-reasons-people-stay-away-from-the-dentist/287-6939e4cf-a37e-4e3d-9052-8c20cc7d68e8 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/top-reasons-people-stay-away-from-the-dentist/287-6939e4cf-a37e-4e3d-9052-8c20cc7d68e8 |
City of Frisco hosting first-ever Pride celebration with block party
Frisco block party set to be city's first-ever Pride parade
"Pride celebrations have been held in Dallas since 1972 but never in Frisco. This year, we’re changing that," said Pride Frisco board member Jon Culpepper.
Credit: Doug Buchanan / American City Business Journals
The number of companies in North Texas with policies, training and outreach to support the LGBTQ community has grown fivefold in the past seven years.
FRISCO, Texas — The city of Frisco is getting ready to throw their first-ever Pride event for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Inaugural Pride Frisco event will be a family-friendly block party happening on Saturday, October 8th. The party's planned to run at Grace Avenue United Methodist Church from 12-4 p.m.
Pride-goers can expect food trucks with goods from places like Earnest B's BBQ, Cactus Café, and 88 Bites Gourmet. The event will also include games, door prizes, LGBTQIA+ resources and a lot more.
And you can be on the lookout special guests like FC Dallas, PFLAG Dallas, the Emerson Band and DJ JJ Rangel-Adams.
Tickets are available for free on Eventbrite.
Pride Frisco is a non-profit organization that aims to create a safe and empowering safe for the city's LGBTQIA+ community and their allies. They also connect people to supportive and affirming resources, education, and support.
A post shared by Pride Frisco (@pridefrisco)
After seeing Dallas celebrate Pride for the last 50 years, Frisco residents decided it's time for their city to have an event of their own.
“It is imperative that all members of our community have essential resources, information, support, and love, regardless of where they live. Pride celebrations have been held in Dallas since 1972 but never in Frisco. This year, we’re changing that," board member John Culpepper said. | 2022-09-20T20:24:39Z | www.wfaa.com | First pride event for Frisco, Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/events/frisco-pride-event-block-party-2022-tickets-october-8-grace-avenue-united-methodist-church/287-43c1551f-14ba-47c8-82e2-d1a16cd8aeb3 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/events/frisco-pride-event-block-party-2022-tickets-october-8-grace-avenue-united-methodist-church/287-43c1551f-14ba-47c8-82e2-d1a16cd8aeb3 |
The man drove a truck with a trailer that was on fire through town, setting numerous grass fires and causing damage to properties, police said.
KAUFMAN COUNTY, Texas — Editor's note: The video published above is a WFAA report from earlier this summer when the incident happened.
A man who authorities say was dubbed the "Rocket Man" has been arrested on an arson charge after allegedly hauling a trailer that was fully-engulfed in flames in July, according to the Kaufman County Fire Marshal's Office.
Jeffrey Daniel Furr, 43, of Canton, was arrested about 100 miles from Kaufman County at a Walmart in Hood County. Furr is alleged to have started numerous grass fires throughout Kaufman County while hauling a trailer that was on fire. The fires caused damage to properties, including a home and storage shed, officials said.
"The Kaufman County Fire Marshal's Office would like to thank the Kaufman County Sheriff's Office and the City of Kaufman for all their help in bringing this fugitive to justice," the Kaufman County Fire Marshal's Office said in a statement.
Jail records showed Furr was in custody at Hood County Jail as of Tuesday afternoon.
According to county officials in July, witnesses told authorities a driver was pulling a burning trailer along the roads and "left a path of destruction" before abandoning the trailer. In total, around seven acres were burned, according to Kaufman Fire Chief Ronnie Davis.
“It’s just crazy," Davis told WFAA at the time. “That much fire driving down the road. Why they didn’t just stop and be on the road right there?”
“I don’t understand how someone can be driving with a trailer on fire like that and not know," Todd said.
Officials said the suspect unhitched the trailer on a bridge and continued to drive away. | 2022-09-20T20:24:45Z | www.wfaa.com | 'Rocket Man' arrested, charged with arson after summer incident | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/kaufman-county-rocket-man-arrested/287-304efad4-4975-4a8a-ac9e-ade5f2f10560 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/kaufman-county-rocket-man-arrested/287-304efad4-4975-4a8a-ac9e-ade5f2f10560 |
Ortiz was suspended by the Texas Medical Board after the board determined continued practice of medicine posed "a continuing threat to public welfare."
DALLAS — Dr. Raynaldo Rivera Ortiz, an anesthesiologist in North Texas, is facing accusations that he tampered with several IV bags at a Dallas surgical center, causing serious medical complications for several patients and a death earlier this year.
Ortiz was suspended by the Texas Medical Board in early September after the board determined continued practice of medicine posed "a continuing threat to public welfare."
Accusations of tampering
According to investigators, Ortiz had told a colleague he felt hospital supervisors were trying to "crucify" him over an alleged medical mistake shortly before he allegedly injected nerve blocking agents and other drugs into patient IV bags at the Baylor Scott & White Surgicare North Dallas, located at 12230 Coit Road.
A criminal complaint unsealed on Sept. 15 said Ortiz's alleged tampering caused the death of fellow anesthesiologist Dr. Melanie Kaspar, 55, and caused as many as 11 other cardiac emergencies in other patients.
Kaspar's death in June had initially been tied to a heart attack, but the latest autopsy and toxicology test results released on Aug. 24 said she had died from an overdose of bupivacaine, a drug used to numb patients in surgery.
In each instance where patients had cardiac emergencies, the complaint said medics were able to stabilize the patients only through the use of emergency measures and most of the incidents occurred during longer surgeries that used more than one IV bag.
Investigators said complications happened in surgeries where Ortiz was not the anesthesiologist.
Surveillance video from the center’s operating room hallway allegedly showed Ortiz placing IV bags into a stainless-steel bag warmer shortly before other doctors’ patients experienced cardiac emergencies, the complaint said.
“There appears to be a likely correlation between Ortiz coming under scrutiny for medical errors and the adverse events affecting other anesthesiologists’ patients,” the complaint stated.
Previous disciplinary actions against Ortiz
Ortiz had been twice disciplined by the Texas Medical Board. Once was for failing to report a conviction for shooting a neighbor's dog in Collin County and again for not administering life-saving measures to a patient in distress at the North Garland Surgery Center, which resulted in Ortiz losing medical privileges at that facility.
A third disciplinary inquiry is detailed in a criminal complaint, stating that on May 19, 2022, one of Ortiz’s patients at Surgicare North Dallas stopped breathing during a routine procedure, the complaint states. According to a review by the facility, Ortiz failed “to maintain the patient’s airway,” which was similar to the 2020 incident in Garland, the complaint states.
During a detention hearing on Monday, Ortiz was ordered to remain in detention. An investigator at the hearing called Ortiz a "medical terrorist."
He has not entered a plea and was granted a request for a court-appointed public defender.
Ortiz, 59, could face life in prison if convicted on federal charges of tampering with a consumer product causing death and intentional drug adulteration. | 2022-09-20T20:25:04Z | www.wfaa.com | Raynaldo Ortiz: Texas doctor accused of tampering with IV bags | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/raynaldo-ortiz-accused-tampering-with-iv-bags/287-64028d43-d729-4ba4-9dc4-8b7a9014b7ed | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/raynaldo-ortiz-accused-tampering-with-iv-bags/287-64028d43-d729-4ba4-9dc4-8b7a9014b7ed |
Dad of 13-year-old killed in Garland crash shares memories of his daughter
ALLEN, Texas — Crews are working on cleaning up a crash after an 18-wheeler flew off a U.S. 75 overpass in Allen, Texas, on Tuesday afternoon.
Police say the driver of the semi-truck died in the crash.
WARNING: THE VIDEO ABOVE CONTAINS DISTURBING IMAGES.
The City of Allen says to expect delays in all directions through the rest of the afternoon and evening at 75 and Stacy Road. The east service road from Cabela's Drive to Stacy Road will be shut down. | 2022-09-20T22:06:09Z | www.wfaa.com | Allen crash: Semi-truck flies off highway overpass in North Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/one-dead-semi-truck-flies-off-us-75-overpass-collin-county-allen-texas/287-7c55fff0-d5e1-4022-b177-eb07f7601fdb | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/one-dead-semi-truck-flies-off-us-75-overpass-collin-county-allen-texas/287-7c55fff0-d5e1-4022-b177-eb07f7601fdb |
DFW Airport officials hope Dallas and Fort Worth council members will amend towing rules to stop business transactions for personal car rental app users.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Fort Worth city council members are being asked to change the towing rules at DFW International Airport. The request comes from airport officials because of parking spots being used by people renting out their personal vehicles.
The Fort Worth council reopened their work session after hearing from the airport during a closed session Tuesday afternoon. Legal Counsel for DFW Airport briefed council members in Fort Worth about their concerns with parking spaces being used for peer-to-peer car rentals.
Right now, fleet owners renting their cars through apps like TURO, a national company, are basically doing business on airport grounds for free.
Reyne Telles, chief communications officer for the City of Fort Worth, has been in connection with DFW communications personnel about their concerns. Telles also shared that council members in Dallas are being presented with the same concerns.
“For the city of Fort Worth’s part, the proposed council action would actually give the airport the green light to begin towing cars owned by through what’s called peer-to-peer app," said Reyne Telles, "Often those vehicles are utilizing facilities that are intended for customer use and avoid paying fees and taxes.”
Both Fort Worth and Dallas council members would have to agree to amend the airport towing rules. Some Fort Worth council members are concerned about how changing the rules would impact individual car owners trying to make extra money.
City leaders in Fort Worth could cast a final vote on this issue at their next full council meeting. Anyone who has concerns with the amendment can sign up for public comment. Fort Worth council members welcome feedback on the issue.
WFAA is awaiting a response from DFW Airport officials about their concerns and the request to amend towing rules. | 2022-09-20T23:43:51Z | www.wfaa.com | DFW airport wants to stop peer-to-peer car rentals using parking | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/airport-wants-put-brakes-peer-to-peer-car-rentals-using-parking-spaces/287-4aa6592e-739b-4915-8871-0377a33ae811 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/airport-wants-put-brakes-peer-to-peer-car-rentals-using-parking-spaces/287-4aa6592e-739b-4915-8871-0377a33ae811 |
A spokesperson says council members worried the post looked like the city was causing controversy after recent book debates in Keller ISD.
KELLER, Texas — The social media pages of public libraries across the country are celebrating banned books in honor of national Banned Books Week.
Banned Books Week has been around since 1982, according to the American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom.
But when the Keller Public Library posted about it, the Keller city manager decided the post needed to come down.
The library used its Facebook account to share an image created by the American Library Association showing the top ten most challenged books of 2021.
The library’s post accompanying the image read, “Want to check out any of these titles for yourself? Your Keller Public Library card can help you with that.”
The post intrigued Heather McCown, a Keller resident.
“I thought – that’s a great idea,” she said.
So, she liked the post and shared it.
Within hours, the Keller Public Library post celebrating Banned Books Week was deleted.
In an email, a city spokesperson told WFAA, “City leadership was concerned that residents would think we were trying to cause controversy given recent debates about books in the school district, so we removed the post as that was certainly not the intent.”
The spokesperson said “a number of council members” contacted the city manager about the post and the city manager made the decision to remove it.
Residents who messaged the Keller Public Library asking why the post was removed received replies inviting them to “still celebrate” Banned Books Week inside the library in person.
A Banned Books Week display inside the Dallas Public Library.
“To me the city asking the library to remove it was a form of censorship,” said McCown.
Keller ISD gained nationwide attention at the beginning of the school year when the Bible, a version of The Diary of Anne Frank, and several other titles were removed from use.
After long and contentious school board meetings, the district adopted new guidelines governing content and access.
RELATED: Keller ISD adopts new 'library content guidelines' for books
The Bible and the Anne Frank diary were put back in use, but other books were removed despite having previously been approved by an independent committee of community members.
The literacy non-profit PEN America released a report at the beginning of Banned Books Week showing Texas ranked first among states when it came to book bans and challenges in schools.
PEN America said Texas had 801 book bans or challenges in 22 school districts in the 2021-2022 school year.
With 566 bans or challenges, Florida was second. Pennsylvania was third with 457 bans or challenges.
Suzanne Nossel, chief executive officer of PEN America, said in a statement:
McCown said she respects educational materials in schools being reviewed to be sure they are age appropriate, and she agrees that parents should have an opportunity to decide what books their children are ready to read.
But she points out that some of the discussion during the school discussion was that material could be accessed at the public library.
“We may not agree on which books should be challenged or banned, but it is important that we do not censor access to ideas,” she said. | 2022-09-21T04:30:45Z | www.wfaa.com | City of Keller orders Keller Public Library to remove post about Banned Books Week | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/city-of-keller-orders-public-library-remove-post-about-banned-books-week/287-51c95bba-2788-432f-9482-bff29b6e9213 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/city-of-keller-orders-public-library-remove-post-about-banned-books-week/287-51c95bba-2788-432f-9482-bff29b6e9213 |
FC Dallas announced it'll host watch parties for the USMNT group stage matches in Frisco!
Toyota Stadium in Frisco
FRISCO, Texas — Need a place to watch the U.S. men's national team (USMNT) this fall at the World Cup? Look no further than Frisco.
FC Dallas officials announced that the club would host watch parties at Toyota Stadium for the USMNT group stage matches in late November. All three matches kick off at 1 p.m. CST and the doors at Toyota Stadium will open at noon each time.
Here is a schedule of the USMNT's group stage slate:
Monday, November 21: United States versus Wales
Friday, November 25: United States versus England
Tuesday, November 29: United States versus Iran
There's expected to be a significant number of players on the team with FC Dallas ties. You can get a better look of the Texas ties to the USMNT here on WFAA.
To secure your seat at the watch parties, visit the club's website here to register.
Planning underway for Dallas as a 2026 World Cup host city | 2022-09-21T16:28:43Z | www.wfaa.com | World Cup watch party in Frisco! FC Dallas to host USMNT fans | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/soccer/world-cup/world-cup-2022-usmnt-watch-party-fc-dallas-frisco-toyota-stadium/287-7bcc5b5b-7859-4828-949e-23eaa7382c0e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/soccer/world-cup/world-cup-2022-usmnt-watch-party-fc-dallas-frisco-toyota-stadium/287-7bcc5b5b-7859-4828-949e-23eaa7382c0e |
New 'Hospital at Home' program' available for qualified patients in Dallas
According to Parkland, 17 patients are currently enrolled to get daily treatment from providers, nurses and others in their home.
DALLAS — A new initiative is now open to Dallas residents who need hospital treatment without the physical hospital.
Parkland Health has launched what they're calling the "Hospital at Home" program. The main goal is to give qualified patients all of the care they need while they stay in their home.
So far, Parkland Health says 17 people are a part of the program and they're working on expanding it for more patients during their 2023 fiscal year.
Those who are approved for the program will get loaned equipment to bring home so health care members can watch vital signs, keep track of medication and assign tasks for the day. Nurses will bring medications to the home and they'll provide infusion therapy if needed.
Other things like X-rays will have to be done at Parkland or one of its other health centers, but they'll offer transportation to and from those appointments.
Physicians and physical or occupational therapists can also make house calls, depending on the patient's situation.
According to Parkland Health, there are programs similar to Hospital at Home at over 200 hospitals across the country. They also say these programs help to lower things like costs, emergency room use, and hospital readmission all while boosting patient satisfaction, nutrition intake and quality of life.
“All the care that a patient would receive in the hospital they receive at home,” said Monal Shah, MD, Executive Sponsor of Parkland’s Hospital at Home program, Senior Vice President and Associate Chief Medical Officer. “The only thing missing is the four walls of the hospital.”
Parkland Health will be taking donations on IStandforParkland.org to contribute to their Hospital at Home program.
How an 'attitude of gratitude' actually helps your health | 2022-09-21T19:10:25Z | www.wfaa.com | Parkland Health's 'Hospital at Home' program | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/health/parkland-health-system-hospital-at-home-program-dallas-texas-tx/287-0c6cacda-707c-4259-90e6-e96d1b70891e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/health/parkland-health-system-hospital-at-home-program-dallas-texas-tx/287-0c6cacda-707c-4259-90e6-e96d1b70891e |
The city is finalizing rental agreements to rent two trucks to maintain its full response capabilities while other trucks are out for repairs.
DALLAS — Dallas Fire Rescue's (DFR) fleet is shorthanded with more than a third of their vehicles out for repairs. To make up for this, the city is renting two extra fire engines to pick up the slack.
A memo to the Dallas City Council states that DFR maintains a 23-vehicle fleet of fire trucks scattered across the city. But nine of those trucks are currently out of commission due to mechanical issues.
They're using all seven of their reserve trucks to cover for the ones out for repairs, but that still leaves them two short of how many the city should have active.
This is why the city is renting two fire trucks to fill in the gap.
"These trucks are expected to be in service as early as next week, bringing us back to our full response capability," the memo stated. "It is important to note that our dispatch center utilizes software to manage gaps in coverage in real time by shifting resources to areas of need."
They expect two of the frontline apparatuses to be back in service in the next couple weeks, but the remaining seven out of service will have more extended repair times, the memo detailed.
DFR's dispatch center uses software to manage gaps in coverage in real time by shifting resources where they're needed, the memo added. The system is normally used in reaction to periods of high call volume, but it also helps mitigate response delays caused by apparatus shortages.
Texas Gov. Abbott signs emergency declaration after historic flooding in Dallas-Fort Worth area
'It's life or death' | Some guests reflect on being trapped, rescued from Irving hotel fire | 2022-09-21T21:41:44Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Fire Rescue renting trucks to fill out fleet | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/city-dallas-renting-fire-trucks-fill-fleet/287-d1aac37f-72f9-478d-9479-0f57fb20df70 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/city-dallas-renting-fire-trucks-fill-fleet/287-d1aac37f-72f9-478d-9479-0f57fb20df70 |
Fort Worth ISD calls the incident an isolated case after investigating parents' complaints.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Isabel Arreola is a concerned parent who wants to know how Fort Worth ISD is going to make sure her 9-year-old daughter arrives at the right bus stop.
Arreola's concerns come after a school bus driver dropped them off blocks away from their assigned bus stop.
One of the students on the bus shared cell phone video with Arreola showing the chaos on the bus.
"You hear these kids just screaming at you. It's total chaos on this bus," said Arreola.
Because you can hear the children yelling and crying about being forced to exit the school bus, Arreola gets emotional just watching the video.
The concerned mother wants school leaders in the district to see the video.
"If it doesn't touch them to hear these kids crying because just to watch it was hard," Arreola said.
It's hard to watch because her 9-year-old daughter is on the bus.
The Fort Worth mother says for the third time this month the school bus driver made a scary mistake. She shared her worst nightmare about her daughter being dropped off at an intersection away from home on a strange street in an unknown neighborhood.
Arreola said, "Them getting picked up, kidnapped, you never know, or them getting hit out there."
Arreola showed WFAA a map on her cell phone which shows her daughter's bus stop on Lipscomb Street near their home.
She not only highlighted the correct bus stop in yellow, but she also highlighted two other locations blocks away where she says the same driver dropped off her daughter since Sept. 1.
Arreola warned it's not just her daughters and fellow riders who have been at risk, but others as well. She learned from other parents that their children had been dropped off blocks away, and in one case, across busy Hemphill Street in Fort Worth, despite screams from a parent.
"A parent was screaming at the bus driver telling him these kids don't belong in this neighborhood. They don't belong here," said Arreola.
Fort Worth ISD's communications department sent a statement to WFAA that read, "We have spoken with students' parents. The District conducted an investigation, and we believe this is an isolated incident: the driver was a substitute and is no longer driving the route."
Arreola said, "To me, this should not be driving at all."
But just like many school districts across Texas, FWISD is short on bus drivers. In some cases, school bus routes have had to be combined, according to Arreola.
The district advertises on the side of its school buses that it's hiring drivers.
Fort Worth ISD outlines security updates for new school year | 2022-09-21T23:56:17Z | www.wfaa.com | Fort Worth ISD bus driver dropped kids off at wrong location | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-school-bus-driver-removed-from-route-dropping-students-off-wrong-location/287-544f9bfe-799a-4802-b864-95b5cec49af9 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/fort-worth-school-bus-driver-removed-from-route-dropping-students-off-wrong-location/287-544f9bfe-799a-4802-b864-95b5cec49af9 |
The dispensary will be rolling into Fort Worth Oct. 8 and Dallas Oct 10.
Credit: Goodblend
FORT WORTH, Texas — Some cannabis enthusiasts may want to roll up Oct. 8 as the mobile cannabis dispensary Goodblend will be holding a joint marijuana march and freedom festival to inform the public on the state's medical program.
Goodblend, a subsidiary of Parallel, is one of three medical cannabis operators license to operate in Texas. The "Ride For Your Rights" CannaBus Tour, they say, is an effort to energize medical cannabis supporters in the state and educate those interested in getting a medical cannabis prescription and how the process works.
There are more than 150 conditions currently approved to qualify someone as a Texas Compassionate Use Program patient. Goodblend provides a network of registered physicians for anyone to find a doctor in Texas near them who can prescribe medical cannabis.
“The medical cannabis program will never change unless Texans stand up and make it change,” Parallel CEO Reece Fulgham said in a statement. “The ‘Ride For Your Rights’ CannaBus Tour was designed to educate and galvanize support for expanding access to Texans in need. We hope the support rallied will convince Texas policymakers that there’s strong public demand for real, lasting change.”
The last bill passed in Texas regarding medical cannabis was House Bill 1535, which greatly expanded access by including those suffering from PTSD and all forms of cancer to the list of qualifying conditions. Millions more Texans can now qualify for TCUP, but fewer than 30,000 patients in the state are currently registered in the program.
The 36-foot mobile dispensary includes a private consultation room and medical cannabis products on display, along with an outdoor education installation.
They will be in Fort Worth Oct. 8 and in Dallas Oct. 10. The event is free to attend and will include merchandise giveaways. Anyone can register online here. | 2022-09-21T23:56:23Z | www.wfaa.com | Mobile cannabis dispensary coming to DFW advocating state program | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/mobile-cannabis-dispensary-coming-dfw-advocating-texas-medical-program/287-65885f0a-8a34-41b6-a474-3aea62939c53 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/mobile-cannabis-dispensary-coming-dfw-advocating-texas-medical-program/287-65885f0a-8a34-41b6-a474-3aea62939c53 |
Jennifer Diaz was killed in a Fort Worth motel room in 2019. For years, advocates had worked to convince her she deserved more than a life on the streets.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Rebecca Shingledecker still has the envelope full of letters.
She’ll never throw them out.
They were sent to her from prison.
They tell the story of a woman who wanted a better life but, after years of abuse and neglect, didn’t think she deserved it.
“When I heard about her death, I was just so sad. What could have been. What should have been. How we as a society failed her,” Shingledecker said.
Jennifer Diaz was the letter writer.
Credit: Rebecca Shingledecker
She was also a convicted prostitute and an addict.
But Shingledecker knew the truth.
Diaz, who’d suffered abuse from a young age, was a victim.
She was being trafficked.
And every time she escaped, she was lured back.
“The voices from people -- like her trafficker -- they sneak in,” Shingledecker said.
A volunteer advocate, Shingledecker worked for years to try to convince Diaz she was worth more than the streets.
RELATED: 'They’re not prostitutes. They’re victims': The tragic end for a human trafficking victim
But Diaz had heard for decades she wasn’t, and the cycle of hope and anguish ended in 2019 when Diaz was murdered in a Fort Worth motel.
When her killer pled guilty and got a 35-year sentence, Shingledecker was the only person in court to speak on Diaz’s behalf.
22-year-old Salomon Sandoval Marquez pled guilty to murder in Jennifer Diaz's death.
“I vowed from the day I got the call from the medical examiner’s office that I would see this case through to the end,” she said.
She wrote a letter and spoke directly to the murderer, 22-year-old Salomon Sandoval Marquez.
“Part of me hopes you see her face when you fall asleep and she’s in your dreams when you’re waking up,” Shingledecker said to him. “Part of me wants you to be eaten up with guilt for the pain you caused her, me, and those that loved her.”
“But then I think about Jennifer,” she said. “She wouldn’t want me to wish those things on you so I will not.”
Shingledecker told Sandoval Marquez that Diaz was the kind of person who forgave people who hurt her. And there were a lot of them.
A plaque along the Trinity Trail in Fort Worth memorializing Jennifer Diaz.
After speaking in court Wednesday morning, Shingledecker spent some time on the Trinity Trail Wednesday night.
In the years since Diaz’s death, Shingledecker raised money to install a memorial bench and plaque in her honor.
“This is a place of rest and shade. She didn’t have that in her life,” she said. “She was used to the other side of town where it was chaos.”
Shingledecker said she hopes people passing by notice the memorial.
Jennifer was the kind of woman society usually judges or ignores.
But she shouldn’t have been, Rebecca said.
“She wasn’t nameless or faceless. She wasn’t just a statistic. She mattered,” she said.”
“I just want to raise awareness for other Jennifers out there,” she said. “There’s so many.”
Man gets 11-year prison sentence for trafficking 13-year-old out of Irving hotel
Some of the 70 missing children found in West Texas were trafficked in DFW. Here's what investigators want you to know | 2022-09-22T04:02:25Z | www.wfaa.com | Guilty plea in Fort Worth sex trafficking victim’s death | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/man-pleads-guilty-fort-worth-sex-trafficking-victim-death/287-d76474d0-28b1-4530-b8d3-0e455f900b54 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/man-pleads-guilty-fort-worth-sex-trafficking-victim-death/287-d76474d0-28b1-4530-b8d3-0e455f900b54 |
School liaisons are 'like working with Santa Claus' for some DISD schools
In schools, we spend a lot of time talking about teachers, principals, etc. But there's a big role who brings everyone together we don't talk about much.
Author: Chris Sadeghi (WFAA)
DALLAS — In the past three years, Principal Jacob Johnson can detect a significant change at Stephen C. Foster Elementary.
“We have data that shows our staff climate is the best it has been in over a decade,” Johnson told WFAA.
He believes much of the credit belongs to a school liaison program between 50 Dallas ISD schools and the educational nonprofit United to Learn.
“It is kind of like working with Santa Claus,” said Johnson. “Everything you wish and dream, they come through with it.”
At Foster Elementary, that liaison is Renza Diaz. Her children are already out of school, but for Diaz, the opportunity to volunteer with United to Learn and work with Foster Elementary fulfills a sense of responsibility.
“I have always been very interested in education,” Diaz said. “I think it is the most important thing a community can give its children.”
The liaisons for each school spend time working with principals and staff to help bridge the gaps and provide resources their designated campus might need. In the three years since being assigned to Foster, Diaz has helped reorganize and decorate the library, establish after-school and tutoring programs and secure funding for playground soccer goals just to name a few projects.
"Without educating (children) to give them opportunities we are selling ourselves short,” said Diaz. “At the end of the day it is about connecting."
Having someone devoted to helping and molding campus is invaluable, according to Johnson.
“Renza and I talk every day. She is here all the time and she’s Foster family,” Johnson said.
Johnson said the support from Diaz and United to Learn have helped the school retain teachers by making them feel supported.
If you are interested in becoming a school liaison or working with United to Learn follow the links below:
Donate to United to Learn
Partner with United to Learn
Volunteer with United to Learn | 2022-09-22T14:31:24Z | www.wfaa.com | School liaisons are 'like working with Santa Claus' for some DISD schools | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/community/unitedtolearn/united-to-learn-school-liaisons/287-a3bb0c4d-9788-4642-a05c-1bfedc701a6f | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/community/unitedtolearn/united-to-learn-school-liaisons/287-a3bb0c4d-9788-4642-a05c-1bfedc701a6f |
41st annual Black Tie dinner
The most anticipated event of the year for the LGBTQIA+ community in north Texas is back this weekend.
The 41st annual Black Tie Dinner presented by PNC Bank returns to the Sheraton Dallas this Saturday.
Co-chairs for the dinner Terry Loftis and Regina Lyn Pierce join me with more on the Black Tie's impact in the community and how you can get involved.
For more information, go to BlackTie.org. | 2022-09-22T18:03:27Z | www.wfaa.com | 41st annual Black Tie dinner | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/41st-annual-black-tie-dinner/287-48cfe055-a72d-4943-8a45-d621925578fe | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/41st-annual-black-tie-dinner/287-48cfe055-a72d-4943-8a45-d621925578fe |
The allure of Saturday's matchup should be obvious to fans of either team, and it starts and ends with TCU head coach Sonny Dykes.
DALLAS — It's confirmed: SMU fans are ready for former coach Sonny Dykes' return to The Hilltop.
The university on Thursday announced that tickets to SMU's home matchup against TCU on Saturday have been sold out.
Ticket prices on the secondary market reflected the high demand: The cheapest seat available on Stubhub on Thursday afternoon was an upper-endzone ticket for $162.
A few ticketholders were having fun with the resale market; one ticket was listed for $32,400. Sounds reasonable.
IRON. SKILLET. SELL. OUT.
Oh yeah … wear blue 😉 pic.twitter.com/ysPwha9CCq
The rest of the tickets are going for around $200 a pop, or more, and that's way higher than normal.
For example, you can buy tickets to the next few SMU home games starting at $16. In Fort Worth, TCU starting ticket prices range from around $25-$100, depending on the opponent, according to Stubhub.
This time last year, Dykes was preparing SMU to upset the Horned Frogs in Fort Worth. After TCU moved on from longtime coach Gary Patterson, the Frogs gave Dykes a call, and he accepted the crosstown job.
SMU replaced Dykes with Miami offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee, a former SMU assistant, and the Mustangs picked up where Dykes left off. They started this season with lopsided wins over North Texas and Lamar, and then led Big Ten opponent Maryland on the road last week, before falling late.
TCU, on the other hand, has looked sharp, for what we've seen of them. They opened the season with a 38-13 win at Colorado and then beat Tarleton State 59-17 at home. | 2022-09-22T21:12:29Z | www.wfaa.com | SMU-TCU tickets: Prices soaring ahead of Sonny Dykes' return | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/college/someone-listed-a-tcu-smu-football-ticket-for-32k-theyre-not-that-steep-but-it-is-a-sellout/287-2f55c517-b487-4a63-97b3-0826d56ad378 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/college/someone-listed-a-tcu-smu-football-ticket-for-32k-theyre-not-that-steep-but-it-is-a-sellout/287-2f55c517-b487-4a63-97b3-0826d56ad378 |
The jury's verdict came in late Thursday afternoon after just hours of deliberations.
HUNT COUNTY, Texas — A former North Texas police officer has been found not guilty of murder in the shooting death of a man in October 2020 after just hours of deliberations.
Attorneys finished up closing arguments just before 11 a.m. on Thursday in the trial of a former Wolfe City police officer Shaun Lucas. He was arrested and charged after he shot and killed Jonathan Price.
This trial had gone on for seven days.
In this trial, the jury heard from over 20 witnesses and also detectives. The former Wolfe City officer was represented by attorneys Robert Rogers and Toby Shook, the same attorneys who represented former Dallas officer Amber Guyger.
Families of Lucas and Price have been in court since the beginning of the trial. They have seen the body camera video of the brief interaction between them. All told there was about a 60-second interaction between them that night in October.
On that Oct. 3, 2020, night, Lucas responded to an argument that broke out between a couple inside a convenience store. Witnesses say Price tried to break up the disagreement inside the store, but it spilled outside.
Friends and family said the argument was settled before officers even arrived.
At the time, attorneys for Lucas say Price approached the officer and later refused repeated instructions. Price had physically resisted, forcing the officer to deploy his taser.
The defense attorney also says Price "attempted to take [the taser] away from Officer Lucas."
What was expected to be the tipping point of this trial was whether Lucas was truly in fear of his life and whether the use of deadly force was justified.
Attorneys introduced the body cam footage and parceled through the video frame by frame. The state maintains Price was never aggressive and witnesses testified to that.
The defense had been building the argument that Price was reaching for Lucas' taser at the time of a struggle.
"This shooting was not necessary. And if it was not necessary, it was murder," said Assistant District Attorney for Hunt County Steve Lilley during opening arguments.
Rogers said during the trial that Price had not complied with over twenty commands by the officer over a short period before being shot.
The trial was held in the 354th Judicial District Court presided by Honorable Judge Keli Aiken of Hunt County. There were 12 jurors and 3 alternates seated for this trial. | 2022-09-22T23:56:24Z | www.wfaa.com | Former Wolfe City police officer found not guilty of murder | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/former-wolfe-city-police-officer-shaun-lucas-not-guilty-murder-shooting-jonathan-price/287-9248bcd2-92e1-4a34-801b-165d794c3e71 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/former-wolfe-city-police-officer-shaun-lucas-not-guilty-murder-shooting-jonathan-price/287-9248bcd2-92e1-4a34-801b-165d794c3e71 |
Hannah shared a glimpse of some of the food options, but with a name like EpicCentral, you know there must be a lot more.
One spot that combines food and fun is Chicken n' Pickle.
EpicCentral creative director Zane King chats with Jane about what you can find there and what other restaurants are on the way.
For more information, go to GPTX.org and search “EpicCentral.” | 2022-09-23T19:41:59Z | www.wfaa.com | EpicCentral food | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/epiccentral-food/287-1457eaa2-e719-454c-b0d4-35bcdc38222e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/epiccentral-food/287-1457eaa2-e719-454c-b0d4-35bcdc38222e |
More Than Epic Active Entertainment
More and more, families want to set aside technology and devices to engage in activities that let them play together.
If that's you, you need to know that Grand Prairie has designed and created numerous places for families to explore.
Erin Hart with Grand Prairie Parks, Art & Recreation shares a few unique spots to visit.
For more information, go to GPTX.org. | 2022-09-23T19:42:23Z | www.wfaa.com | More Than Epic Active Entertainment | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/more-than-epic-active-entertainment/287-929b11ee-c4be-4b25-ae5d-938b03dcb64b | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/more-than-epic-active-entertainment/287-929b11ee-c4be-4b25-ae5d-938b03dcb64b |
Neighbors say the run of the annual fair can bring some excitement, and concern, for those living and working outside Fair Park.
DALLAS — Big Tex is now standing in the center of Fair Park. The grounds are starting to get busy in preparation for the State Fair of Texas, which kicks off on Sept. 30.
“I’m very excited,” said neighbor Patsy Dotie.
Dotie is among neighbors looking forward to the annual event and the more than two million visitors expected to converge on the South Dallas-Fair Park during the fair’s near one-month run.
“Go out there and eat a lot of corny dogs, and ice cream, and get on some of them rides,” Dotie said.
Even with the excitement, some neighbors admit there’s concern.
“We don’t get a lot of traffic over here,” explained business owner Shaun Mitchell.
Mitchell owns Lil Mama’s Bar B Que and Catering a few blocks from the fairgrounds. He said State Fair of Texas visitors will likely park their cars in the community, but bypass local businesses and restaurants like the one he owns.
“Right now, we don’t see a lot of traffic, foot traffic, or any kind of traffic. Even though we’re promoting that we’re over here. We’re selling the same thing the fair sells. But we don’t see that business,” Mitchell added.
Traditionally, some neighbors and organizations take advantage of selling parking spots on private lots adjacent to Fair Park. They can make a pretty penny. Some other businesses across from the fair’s main gates predict they will be slow between Sept. 30 and Oct. 23.
Some workers at nearby shops along Exposition Avenue said traffic and parking are among some of their big concerns in the coming weeks, especially during the Texas-OU game. They said traffic will get so grid-locked, they’re expected to close their stores during that game day for the fair.
As the neighbors get closer to opening day, some businesses and residents are encouraging fairgoers to not just visit the State Fair of Texas, but take time to explore the unique South Dallas-Fair Park community.
“That’s the only way we are going to survive, is by the support of people. That’s the main thing, right now. Just support us,” Mitchell said. | 2022-09-24T00:33:11Z | www.wfaa.com | Neighbors, businesses prepare for State Fair of Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/state-fair/neighbors-prepare-for-state-fair-of-texas-opening-day/287-4f2d8eca-cc6f-48b3-9d33-7e854a6ad345 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/state-fair/neighbors-prepare-for-state-fair-of-texas-opening-day/287-4f2d8eca-cc6f-48b3-9d33-7e854a6ad345 |
If you're using an antenna to watch the Cowboys play the Giants on WFAA this week, make sure you rescan your TV -- because WFAA now has a new, more powerful signal.
DALLAS — On Monday night, the Dallas Cowboys will take on the New York Giants in a hotly anticipated Monday Night Football showdown of heated NFC East rivals!
And, not only can you catch the game on WFAA, but we'll have tons of Cowboys coverage all day long leading up to that game's kickoff at 7:15 p.m.
In addition to our regular news broadcasts throughout Monday including live updates from Concrete Cowboy at The Star in Frisco, we'll also be hosting a special preview show from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. to help you get ready for the game.
You can catch all this pregame coverage right here on WFAA.com, on the WFAA mobile app and on our WFAA+ streaming app for Roku and Amazon Fire.
As for the Monday Night Football game itself? Well, we've made sure that Cowboys fans tuning into the game through antennas will get as crisp a broadcast feed of WFAA as possible.
WFAA recently boosted its tower signal strength to ensure better-quality reception for our viewers throughout the North Texas region. The video at the top of this article provides an easy walkthrough on how you can rescan your television to guarantee you're getting our crispiest broadcast possible.
We also have a step-by-step description on this process -- and explanation of the technology behind it -- for you to follow along with right here.
As ever, know that we've got you covered if it's Cowboys-related content you seek!
You can check out more of our Dallas Cowboys coverage right here. And if you'd like to sign up for a weekly Friday email previewing each weekend's Cowboys matchup from WFAA's main sports anchor Joe Trahan, you can sign up for that newsletter, called The Playbook, right here.
Here we go, Cowboys! | 2022-09-24T00:33:30Z | www.wfaa.com | MNF: Rescan your TV for a clear signal of Cowboys-Giants | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/how-rescan-tv-get-clear-signal-watch-cowboys-giants-nfl-abc-monday-night-football/287-411fa84c-32c9-44ed-b540-06dfddf40c2c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/how-rescan-tv-get-clear-signal-watch-cowboys-giants-nfl-abc-monday-night-football/287-411fa84c-32c9-44ed-b540-06dfddf40c2c |
Victim of viral racist tirade speaks about lawsuit
The elementary schools on the west side are "bursting at the seams" while some schools in the east are at 40% to 50% capacity.
ALLEN, Texas — Allen ISD may have to make some tough decisions soon to manage enrollment throughout its district.
Presentations made to the Board of Trustees in May outlined enrollment forecasts and the process for adjusting elementary attendance boundaries. The adjustments could ultimately mean a couple elementary schools will be repurposed as other learning locations.
The district emailed a letter to parents on Friday afternoon about the alignment of attendance zones and the potential proposals a 70 member committee has brought forward.
"...[O]ur schools in the west are reaching capacity limits, while our eastern schools are generally experiencing declining enrollments," read a small portion of the letter explaining the purpose for the changes.
"Breaking that to her is going to be rough," said Joshua Barry who has two kids, one named Brooklyn who is a 3rd grader, in the district. Brooklyn goes to Rountree Elementary, which is just a couple blocks away from home. Her parents have not yet told her about proposals that could change where she goes next year.
Of the 18 elementary schools in Allen ISD, five have surpassed or are approaching functional capacity. They're all on the growing west side. According to the district, some schools on the east side are only at 40 to 50% capacity. One proposal calls for realignments at all elementaries, another proposals calls for completely turning two elementaries, Rountree and nearby Anderson, into other instructional locations.
"That just blows my mind. They have such an amazing program for my son. He is autistic with special needs," said Barry.
The district wants to remind the public that these are just proposals and nothing is definite. But the thought of children having to move to other schools naturally worries parents. The Barrys moved here 4 years ago and for a reason: "That's why we moved to the neighborhood for the school," he said.
The district says the goal is to impact the least number of students.
“In order to continue offering excellent educational programming to students and competitive benefits to employees, the District must create efficiencies.”
Two public meetings to discuss the topic are set for Oct. 6 and Nov. 2. The school board will then take a vote on the matter.
The following proposals are set to be discussed to address the changing landscape of attendance at the district:
• Realignment of attendance zones at all elementary campuses to alleviate functional capacity issues at several campuses, with an effort to move as few families as possible
• Repurpose Anderson Elementary into an Early Childhood Campus to accommodate the state-required transition to Full Day Prekindergarten
• Repurpose Rountree Elementary for future non-instructional programming needs
• Relocate the One-Way Dual Language program from Boyd Elementary to Chandler Elementary | 2022-09-24T05:11:16Z | www.wfaa.com | Allen ISD proposing attendance realignment at elementary schools | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/education/allen-isd-proposals-attendance-realignment-could-mean-big-changes-elementary-schools/287-a480be01-b8d1-428e-887b-7ccb004c3cd7 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/education/allen-isd-proposals-attendance-realignment-could-mean-big-changes-elementary-schools/287-a480be01-b8d1-428e-887b-7ccb004c3cd7 |
Shooting kills one, injures another outside Dallas gas station, police say
Crime Stoppers is paying up to $5,000 for any information leading to an arrest and indictment.
DALLAS — A reward is being offered to help police track down the suspect behind a deadly shooting in a Dallas gas station parking lot.
The Dallas Police Department (DPD) said they got a shooting call from the Chevron station on East Overton Road at 4:49 p.m. Saturday.
Two people were shot by an unknown suspect. One man, identified as 21-year-old Demarcea Hodge, died at a hospital from his injuries, police say. The other person was treated and released.
DPD is asking anyone with information to contact Detective Scott Sayers by calling 214-671-3647 or emailing scott.sayers@dallaspolice.gov. This shooting is being documented as case number 174087-2022. | 2022-09-25T13:52:18Z | www.wfaa.com | Police: Deadly shooting outside Dallas Chevron gas station | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/dallas-tx-texas-crime-shooting-chevron-gas-station-east-overton-road-21-year-old-demarcea-hodge/287-0e3f10c6-ea50-47aa-b961-798b13124b3a | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/dallas-tx-texas-crime-shooting-chevron-gas-station-east-overton-road-21-year-old-demarcea-hodge/287-0e3f10c6-ea50-47aa-b961-798b13124b3a |
North Texas Iranian men and women are outraged over the death of Mahsa Amini. The 22-year-old died after being detained for allegedly wearing a hijab improperly.
DALLAS — Outrage is growing around the world after the death of a 22-year-old Iranian woman in police custody.
Reports out of Iran said Mahsa Amini was arrested by police and died about 10 days ago.
This has outraged Iranian Americans, who are now taking to the streets and making their voices hears.
North Texas Iranian men and women joined the protests over the death of Amini.
The 22-year-old died after being detained for allegedly wearing a hijab improperly.
“Just her hair was out of her hijab a little bit. They beat her so bad, into a coma. She died the next day,” said Arrash Pirasteh, the organizer of a protest on Sunday.
“We are worried about that and it can happen to our family as well,” said Dr. Hedieh Davanloo.
Fighting for Women’s rights.
Hundreds gathered in Dallas, after the death of #MahsaAmini in #IranProtests2022 .
With barely any internet in Iran, news is out about Mahsa. Local Iranians tell us, she was killed for not wearing her hijab properly. @wfaa pic.twitter.com/LZuUvErjsi
Dr. Hedieh Davanloo, a doctor in the Dallas area, said she’s tired of the unrest in Iran and how women are being treated.
“We are worried about them,” said Davanloo.
Day after day, with barely any internet in Iran, Davanloo waits by the phone to hear from loved ones.
“You don’t hear from them, and you think they’re in prison. Maybe they’re killed,” said Davanloo.
Nearly all of the protesters had a story to tell. One protester said their loved one was arrested for painting her nails and posting it on social media. She was forced to delete all of her social media accounts.
Davanloo said any woman in Iran can be targeted for no reason.
“You can just walk down the street, and they come with moral police,” said Davanloo.
“Our goal is to create a united front,” said Pirasteh.
Iran denies involvement but justifies attack on Salman Rushdie | 2022-09-26T05:14:22Z | www.wfaa.com | North Texas Iranians protest after the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/north-texas-iranians-protest-death-mahsa-amini-iran/287-81ad06ea-e41a-4788-85e4-f226e7e72486 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/north-texas-iranians-protest-death-mahsa-amini-iran/287-81ad06ea-e41a-4788-85e4-f226e7e72486 |
The Dallas Cowboys face off with the New York Giants on Monday Night Football on WFAA. Here are the keys to a win.
The Dallas Cowboys will be the last team in the NFL to play on the road as they travel to take on the New York Giants in Week 3.
This isn’t your typical Cowboys vs. Giants matchup of recent years; those have mostly been mismatches with starting quarterback Dak Prescott lining up under center. Dallas is usually the better team trying to win a hard fought divisional game, whereas the Giants have often been trying to figure out their season and how to come away with an expected victory.
This season, the Giants are 2-0 and looking to keep their turnaround year going, while the Cowboys are the team trying to find a way to win. The lights will be bright on Monday Night Football and the Cowboys have some confidence going with backup quarterback Cooper Rush fresh off a game-winning drive against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2’s victory.
If Dallas somehow comes away with a win, they’ll be in second place in the NFC East and a season that looked to be straying off course after Week 1 could be stabilizing.
Here are the keys to beating the Giants to help the Cowboys stay on track in 2022:
Pressure Giants quarterback Daniel Jones
New York has won their first two games of the season, yet QB Daniel Jones hasn’t had much of a hand in those victories. Jones is more of a game manager who can use his legs to find success, but still struggles as a passer. The fourth year QB has a penchant for holding onto the ball for too long, taking sacks, and giving the football away.
Jones has fumbled 11 times in his first three seasons, but hasn’t put one on the ground yet this year. The Giants remade their offensive line this offseason and drafted offensive tackle Evan Neal seventh overall, but the unit has still given up eight sacks in the first two games.
Quarterbacks often play a role in taking sacks and Jones’ pocket presence remains an issue.
Clay Matthews 16 pic.twitter.com/K3MMQ0IE5K
— Pinhead Sports® (@_PinheadSports) September 18, 2022
If the Cowboys can pressure Jones, they can force him into making some bad decisions and disrupt the offense. The defense's pass rush, led by Micah Parsons, can play a big role in whether Dallas leaves East Rutherford with a win.
Slow down running back Saquon Barkley
The Saquon Barkley that the Giants drafted second overall in 2018 has shown up in the first two weeks of the 2022 season. Now healthy after a few years of nagging injuries, Barkley looks like one of the top running backs in the league again.
After two weeks, Barkley led the league in rushing, and is averaging a whopping 6.1 yards per carry.
Most rush yards in the NFL
Saquon Barkley 236
Nick Chubb 228
Jonathan Taylor 215
D'Andre Swift 200
Leonard Fournette 192 pic.twitter.com/KEOaOmVrQf
A threat whenever he touches the ball, Barkley is also used in the passing game ranking second on the Giants in receptions with nine. Barkley was second in the NFL in total yards coming into Week 3 with 282.
This is the dynamic Barkley that was once considered one of the best RBs to come out of college in years, and the Cowboys need to slow him down to give themselves a better chance at winning. Stopping the run has been a problem for the Cowboys in recent seasons, so Barkley and the Giants represent a big challenge.
Be effective in the running game
The Cowboys haven’t been great at running the ball yet this season, but the Giants will likely be without one of their better two-way players in defensive lineman Leonard Williams, who is doubtful with a right knee sprain. Even with Williams, the Giants are giving up nearly 120 yards per game on the ground thus far.
Running backs Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard haven’t hit their stride yet through two games, but this could be the week for them to get going. Elliott is averaging 4.2 yards per carry, so he’s been effective in his attempts, but the offense hasn’t had the opportunity to commit to him throughout a full game yet.
Pollard took a pseudo-handoff last week and nearly scored on a long gain, but the duo has only received 40 carries total through two weeks. That needs to change with Rush under center for his second straight game.
The Cowboys have played two of the top eight defenses at stopping the run in the league to start the season, but they now get break with a softer Giants defense that can be run on.
The Giants have won their first two games this season, and they were both close games, with an average margin of victory of just two points. The offense for the Giants isn’t explosive and will be without wide receivers Wan’Dale Robinson and Kadarius Toney.
Dallas hasn’t been a high-powered offense through their first two contests either. The Cowboys have given the ball away once in each of their first two games, and tight end Dalton Schultz’s fumble almost cost the team the game last week.
If the Cowboys can hold onto the ball, and force a few turnovers, they will have an advantage that could prove the difference if the contest remains close.
Do you think the Cowboys will be able to win their first NFC East clash of the season? Share your predictions with Ben on Twitter @BenGrimaldi.
REWIND: The fanatic evolution of Dallas Cowboy fans | 2022-09-26T15:18:37Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cowboys: Keys to a victory against the New York Giants | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/dallas-cowboys-giants-keys-to-victory-how-the-cowboys-can-get-a-win-in-new-york-tonight/287-70525305-eb15-429b-ac04-42489a4c450c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/dallas-cowboys-giants-keys-to-victory-how-the-cowboys-can-get-a-win-in-new-york-tonight/287-70525305-eb15-429b-ac04-42489a4c450c |
Double duty clothing hacks
Holly Quartaro shares some simple hacks and quick fixes for your clothes.
If you’ve ever found the perfect pair of pants or dress but go to try them on and they're too big – most of us would leave it in the dressing room, but maybe we don't have to. | 2022-09-26T18:47:28Z | www.wfaa.com | Double duty clothing hacks | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/double-duty-clothing-hacks/287-4981aadc-ee7c-46ae-945a-1de64c4a8ad5 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/double-duty-clothing-hacks/287-4981aadc-ee7c-46ae-945a-1de64c4a8ad5 |
Falling into a new gardening season
Extreme heat, extreme drought, then a month of rain in one day and flooding… If you struggled to grow a vegetable garden this summer, don't fret.
You have an entire season to make up for it!
Horticulturist Daniel Cunningham shares some fall gardening tips.
For more information, go to RootedIn.com or find them on Instagram @TXPlantGuy. | 2022-09-26T18:47:34Z | www.wfaa.com | Falling into a new gardening season | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/falling-into-a-new-gardening-season/287-554a0aa7-2f83-4430-a2d4-5ac3b021bf0c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/falling-into-a-new-gardening-season/287-554a0aa7-2f83-4430-a2d4-5ac3b021bf0c |
Metabolism and weight loss with Back 2 Real Food
When you hear the word "wonderland,” you probably don't think about weight loss.
But "one-der-land" is a buzz word being used by people who have struggled – Then finally reached a certain weight loss goal.
For more information, call 833.668.4883 or go to Back2RealFood.com. | 2022-09-26T18:47:46Z | www.wfaa.com | Metabolism and weight loss with Back 2 Real Food | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/metabolism-and-weight-loss-with-back-2-real-food/287-77436d8b-8668-41b1-bcce-74e971bd5ad5 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/metabolism-and-weight-loss-with-back-2-real-food/287-77436d8b-8668-41b1-bcce-74e971bd5ad5 |
The new WFAA/Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation poll gives AG Paxton a 5% lead but with a larger percentage still undecided.
DALLAS — While the new WFAA/Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation poll shows Texas Republicans leading every statewide race, the Democratic challenger for Texas Attorney General sees a glimmer of hope in her numbers.
Governor Greg Abbott leads challenger Beto O'Rourke by a margin of 51% to 44% with 3% of likely voters saying they are still undecided. But in the race for Attorney General between Republican incumbent Ken Paxton and Democratic challenger Rochelle Garza, the 47% to 42% margin shows 8% of likely voters remain undecided.
"There are a larger number of people in this particular race that are still unsure who they are going to vote for," said Regina Montoya, a board member of the Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation. Montoya is also a volunteer on Garza's finance committee. "And that's because they don't know either of the candidates as well."
Montoya says younger voters, who don't normally turn out in big numbers for a midterm election - will be key.
"And if Rochelle Garza is able to get her message out to that population that hasn't traditionally voted, that might not even be covered by polls at this point, that could be the margin of victory when it's this small a difference," Montoya said.
SMU political science professor Cal Jillson says name recognition can go both ways: Attorney General Ken Paxton with negative name recognition while Rochelle Garza with simply not enough statewide name recognition.
"Well I think it is baggage," Jillson said of Paxton. "He's not leading by quite as much as say, Lt. Governor Patrick or Governor Abbott. People do have reservations about Ken Paxton as well they should until those investigations clear up. He's under a cloud."
"The problem that Rochelle Garza has," Jillson said, "is while she is an attractive articulate candidate, she doesn't have enough money to present herself to an electorate that doesn't know very much about her."
Transparency USA shows Rochelle Garza with just over $1 million in donations. Ken Paxton with eight times that much.
"And an electorate that wonders what she stands for and who she is unlikely to move in her direction in large numbers," Jillson said.
As of today, there are 42 days and counting now for each candidate to make those numbers change.
View more poll numbers here. | 2022-09-26T23:43:32Z | www.wfaa.com | Texas AG race a potential toss up, new poll shows | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/elections/texas-attorney-general-race-a-potential-toss-up-with-8-undecided/287-d4219328-fb11-4f0c-9e98-eac3b70bceb6 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/elections/texas-attorney-general-race-a-potential-toss-up-with-8-undecided/287-d4219328-fb11-4f0c-9e98-eac3b70bceb6 |
The dangerous weather system is being closely watched by Brian Hoeth, an emergency response specialist with the National Weather Service in Fort Worth.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Strong storm surges and super high winds have pounded parts of western Cuba. People in Florida used sandbags to prepare for the same impact from Hurricane Ian.
The dangerous weather system is being closely watched by Brian Hoeth, who works in downtown Fort Worth.
"I'm an emergency response specialist with the National Weather Service," said Hoeth.
Hoeth and his colleagues work in the federal building on Taylor Street. Part of their job is to monitor storms and get hurricane information to other emergency personnel in several states, including people on their team working on the Texas coast.
Storms, like Hurricane Ian, can be threats to coastal cities, even when the eye of the storm remains thousands of miles away.
RELATED: Hurricane Ian: Texas prepares to send help to Florida ahead of storm's approach
"This will mostly just be a beach concern for the coastal areas of Texas, and that will just mostly be a rip current threat," said Hoeth.
That threat prediction comes from the Southern Region Headquarters -- Regional Operations Center (ROC). It's staffed 24 hours a day and seven days a week, as Hoeth and his coworkers try to predict Ian's next move.
"This is going to be a very tough week for Florida," said Hoeth.
In preparation, military officials have relocated about 14 F-16s from Homestead Air Force Reserve Base in Florida to Fort Worth.
WFAA has learned that more military aircraft is on the way to Fort Worth from other places, pending Hurricane Ian's possible wrath.
After working through storms like Hurricane Harvey, Hoeth warns, pay attention to information from the ROC, especially Texans with family and friends in Florida.
"Make sure that you're in contact with them. Make sure that they're heeding the advice of their local authorities," said Hoeth.
Hoeth shared that there is a team of National Weather Service meteorologists from Texas working in one of their Florida facilities to help monitor and share information about Hurricane Ian. That same team will share information throughout their district with personnel in the southern region states.
"We cover the southern region of the National Weather Service, which goes from Florida and Georgia and up to Tennessee, all the way westward, all the way into Texas and New Mexico," said Hoeth. | 2022-09-27T01:18:59Z | www.wfaa.com | National Weather Service in Fort Worth tracking Hurricane Ian | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/national-weather-service-team-in-fort-worth-monitoring-threat-of-hurricane-ian/287-18b4de08-2e30-4dab-96eb-eed86c17322f | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/national-weather-service-team-in-fort-worth-monitoring-threat-of-hurricane-ian/287-18b4de08-2e30-4dab-96eb-eed86c17322f |
Monday Night Field Goals: Cowboys, Giants in a low-scoring primetime duel
Jason Peters made his Cowboys debut in the second quarter.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 26, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — There's a reason why fans of the 28 other NFL teams cannot stand when two NFC East squads are featured in primetime.
Because the games, usually, are painful to watch.
Monday night's showdown between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants from MetLife Stadium has, so far, lived up to the hype pain.
Three combined field goals has the Cowboys with a slight edge at halftime, 6-3.
Led by running backs Ezekiel Elliott (55 yards) and Tony Pollard (71 rush yards), the Cowboys offense has moved the ball well across midfield -- only to stall out in the red zone (0 for 2).
Penalties (and dropped passes from receiver CeeDee Lamb) continue to plague the Cowboys as they got flagged five times in the first half.
Perhaps it's the jitters of their first NFL road game but rookie left tackle Tyler Smith and rookie tight end Peyton Hendershot were each penalized twice on offense.
Cowboys left guard Matt Farniok started the game and was penalized for holding, which killed Dallas' opening drive and ultimately forced them to punt.
In the second quarter, Farniok was replaced by veteran offensive lineman Jason Peters who was elevated to the 53-man roster earlier on Thursday.
On Peters' first play as a Cowboy, Pollard ran between Smith and Peters for a 46-yard gain.
Peters, who was a Hall of Fame left tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, has some experience at left guard and provided an immediate boost upon entering the game. | 2022-09-27T02:54:21Z | www.wfaa.com | Halftime: Cowboys lead 6-3 in low-scoring game against Giants | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/monday-night-field-goals-cowboys-giants-in-a-low-scoring-primetime-duel/287-3cb9406b-812a-45f0-866c-d2e58ccd2b23 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/monday-night-field-goals-cowboys-giants-in-a-low-scoring-primetime-duel/287-3cb9406b-812a-45f0-866c-d2e58ccd2b23 |
Lamb had an inexcusable drop in the first half, but rebounded to lead Dallas on a lead-taking drive in the final frame.
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — CeeDee Lamb has never known a single second in his NFL career without pressure.
He hadn't finished his first day as a Dallas Cowboy before having the iconic No. 88 bestowed upon him by owner Jerry Jones. And after just two seasons in the league, the Cowboys traded Amari Cooper, and installed Lamb as their No. 1 wide receiver.
Pressure. On top of pressure. On top of self-inflicted pressure.
"I feel like I've put more pressure on myself than anyone has on me," Lamb said Monday, after the Cowboys 23-16 win over the New York Giants. "So that's why I say being in this position is not really you know anything big to me because personally I'm thinking bigger."
The position Lamb found himself in on Monday night was goat. No doubt about it, an if-we-lose-it's-on-you type of goat. An inexplicable drop, as Lamb ran wide open deep in the Giants secondary, on a play that conceivably could have gone for a Cowboys touchdown, that left Lamb in a swirl of emotions.
"Very frustrating," Lamb said. "Honestly, just because I mean I practice all week all offseason just on focusing in focusing on the ball and I let that one slip away. It was tough."
Lamb let the frustration stew for over a quarter.
"It was a tough third quarter just kind of thinking about it," Lamb said. "I kept thinking about it. All the guys kept preaching to me to let it go. Let it go. We still got more game left. And then, fourth quarter when I kept hearing my number being called, I knew it was my opportunity again, so I had to step up."
And did he ever.
First, Lamb got open for quarterback Cooper Rush to find him over the middle for a 17-yard hookup, that got the Cowboys into Giants territory. Four plays later, the Cowboys would call Lamb's name again. On 4th & 4, in a tie ball game, Rush found Lamb right at the sticks, and Lamb held on despite getting rocked by the Giants' Dane Belton.
"I was willing to do anything to make up for, you know, a touchdown potentially that I left in the first [half]," Lamb said afterward, of taking a huge shot and still hanging on for the conversion.
Then, on consecutive plays, the Cowboys dialed up "88" again. First, on a delay route, Lamb got wide open after pretending to block, and Rush found him for 26 yards. The Cowboys slender wideout lowered his shoulder and drove straight through the chest of the Giants Fabian Moreau, releasing all that first half frustration, and getting down inside the 1-yard line.
"You can say that, yeah," Lamb said. "[It was an] opportunity to showcase my strength. And honestly, I didn't feel like dancing and I wasn't gonna give him the benefit of the doubt of just pushing me out. So he had to feel me."
Finally, the pièce de résistance. Rush lobbed a beautiful ball to the back corner of the end zone, and Lamb hauled in a spectacular one-handed touchdown grab, tapping both feet just inside the sideline, to give Dallas the lead back.
Lamb was full goat. And yet, he virtually erased the drop by leading his team to a win. And he displayed his mental toughness in the process.
"I always knew I had it," he said. "It was just kind of me just you know, being positive throughout the whole situation. It was a situation where I had to deal with it most importantly on my own, you know. Obviously just understanding that I'm the one that dropped the ball for the guys. So, knowing that I had to make this up in the back end of the game, understanding that the game was gonna go down to the wire, I had to step up, it was mandatory."
Lamb is not done feeling the pressure. In fact, a performance like this will only escalate it, as Cowboys fans will expect more of what he did in the fourth quarter, but regularly. He's the No. 1 now. That's the job.
But he's learned something about playing this role and being the Cowboys top receiver.
"It's going to have ebbs and flows," Lamb said. "It's all about being consistent. Staying positive. Everything is not gonna go my way. [But] when it does, it's gonna go big." | 2022-09-27T11:53:20Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cowboys: Is CeeDee Lamb the No. 1 receiver now? | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/ceedee-lamb-asserts-himself-as-the-dallas-cowboys-no-1-receiver-with-dramatic-redemption-in-second-half/287-6836a5a8-ed41-4011-9e02-7901714b8e76 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/ceedee-lamb-asserts-himself-as-the-dallas-cowboys-no-1-receiver-with-dramatic-redemption-in-second-half/287-6836a5a8-ed41-4011-9e02-7901714b8e76 |
Dude Perfect's new proposed headquarters could include "Trick Show Town" attractions for the public.
Credit: Dude Perfect/Overland
Courtesy: Dude Perfect/Overland
Author: Erik Bacharach (Sports Business Journal)
FRISCO, Texas — Dude Perfect, the Frisco-based sports/entertainment group that has amassed more than 58 million subscribers on YouTube, revealed plans to leave its current location for a new corporate HQ and entertainment destination that will feature a 330-foot tower.
Dude Perfect partnered with San Antonio-based architecture firm Overland Partners for the project, which could reach nine figures. The group is exploring potential municipal partners across the country for the venue and plans to announce a location in the near future.
Dude Perfect’s five co-founders and owners — Tyler Toney, Garrett Hilbert, Cody Jones and twins Cory and Coby Cotton — all hail from Texas and “would love for it to be nearby,” Coby Cotton said. “That said, we are exploring all different options and we’ve had a lot of interest from different cities.”
Overland Senior Principal Bryan Trubey said Los Angeles and Atlanta are among those cities. Cotton said they expect the project to take about two years to complete once construction begins. The group said it will relocate from its current location in Frisco to wherever its Overland project lands.
Dude Perfect began working with Overland on conceptual designs for the project over a year ago. The venue’s boldest planned feature is the 330-foot tower, which projects from the site as a vertical expression of the brand known for its improbable trick shots. The space will give fans the chance to attempt an improbable trick shot of their own. “When you can create a physical representation of what makes a brand so iconic, that's enormously powerful,” Trubey said. “It was absolutely the right move for us, in terms of basing the physical destination around that.”
Inside the venue, the design concept includes three stories of attractions, including a Dude Perfect Museum that will chronicle the group’s origin story. Restaurants, merchandise, water features and outdoor attractions will round out the visitor experience on the multi-acre site.
Surrounding the building will be two acres of public outdoor park space for large gatherings, as well as attractions that will be created in collaboration with Dude Perfect corporate partners.
“Our vision has always been to create a destination where families could just have an absolute blast in a very unique way,” Cotton said.
Trubey and the Overland Partners team, which also includes Senior Architect Austin Ash, Senior Principal John Hutchings and Principal Trip Boswell, previously worked on SoFi Stadium, AT&T Stadium and U.S. Bank Stadium during their time together at HKS Architects. “I would put these guys up against anybody we've ever worked with from a creative standpoint,” Trubey said of Dude Perfect. “They have a broader vision for where they want to take their brand, and this is the next step.”
This story originally appeared in Sports Business Journal, an affiliated publication.
Right on the Money: "Nearshoring" at the southern border | 2022-09-27T13:55:24Z | www.wfaa.com | Dude Perfect to leave Frisco HQ for new entertainment location | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/money/business/dude-perfect-dallas-frisco-hq/287-1bfc391b-ce68-46f7-9106-f4c8896a1599 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/money/business/dude-perfect-dallas-frisco-hq/287-1bfc391b-ce68-46f7-9106-f4c8896a1599 |
The 20th annual festival runs from Oct. 28 through Oct. 30.
Credit: City of Ennis
Courtesy: City of Ennis
ENNIS, Texas — It's a pumpkin pickers' paradise!
The City of Ennis is back for its 20th annual "Ennis Autumn Daze," as the shopping and entertainment district in historic downtown will be transformed into a fall festival wonderland. The event will run from Oct. 28 through Oct. 30.
City officials said the pumpkin patch will feature more than 16,000 pumpkins of all sizes, including one 2,000-pound pumpkin and six that weigh 800 pounds.
World-renowned pumpkin carvers Dean Murray, a Disney+ Foodtastic champion, and Nancy Baker, a participant on Food Network’s Halloween Wars, will join three pumpkin carvers to create masterpieces throughout the weekend. Festival goers can also enjoy a giant pumpkin house with a backdrop for family photos.
For the kiddos, the festival has midway rides and carnival games as well as the corn corral, a 100-ton playbox filled with corn (it's corn!).
Autumn Daze will also hold a corn hole tournament with a cash prize and have a children’s craft area with pumpkin painting, food vendors and shopping.
Oh, and there will be live music, too! The 20th Annual event is headlined by Gary P. Nunn and Pat Green on Saturday, Oct. 29. Michael Kelton and local musician John Marlin also will be on the main stage. For the full lineup of musicians, check out VisitEnnis.org.
Admission to Autumn Daze is free all-day Friday, Oct. 28. Ticket prices for Saturday, Oct. 29 is $5 per person before 4 p.m. and $10 after 4 p.m., and admission on Sunday, Oct. 30 is $5 all day. Children 12 and under are free throughout the weekend.
Dallas events on debunking sickle cell disease myths | 2022-09-27T15:47:57Z | www.wfaa.com | Ennis Autumn Daze: Catch the 2,000 pumpkin, live music and more | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/events/ennis-texas-autumn-daze-2022/287-38b19454-7368-4972-96af-8867710ecfdb | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/events/ennis-texas-autumn-daze-2022/287-38b19454-7368-4972-96af-8867710ecfdb |
Dallas police said a 17-year-old was arrested after a witness saw a gun passed through the fence line at the Berkner-Lake Highlands football game.
DALLAS — A 17-year-old has been arrested after trying to sneak a gun into a Dallas high school football game, police and Richardson school district officials confirmed to WFAA.
Dallas police said a witness alerted Richardson police officers about someone passing the teenager a gun through the fence at the Berkner-Lake Highlands football game at Wildcat-Ram Stadium.
Wildcat-Ram Stadium is located in northeast Dallas, but Berkner and Lake Highlands are in the Richardson Independent School District.
According to Richardson ISD officials, the teenager was arrested by Dallas police on the home side of the stadium. No one was injured, district officials said.
"We’re pleased to share that RISD security protocols worked as intended, and the person was arrested directly after being observed attempting to circumvent the metal detectors that are part of the entry process," Richardson ISD officials said in a statement.
The teenager who was arrested was not an RISD student, the district said. The teenager has been charged with unlawful carrying a weapon in prohibited places, which is a second-degree felony.
WFAA has also reached out for details regarding whoever passed the gun along to the teenager through the fence. | 2022-09-27T15:48:02Z | www.wfaa.com | Police: 17-year-old arrested with gun at Texas HS football game | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/richardson-isd-dallas-football-game-teenager-arrested-gun-berkner-lake-highlands/287-cfefb672-dafa-49e3-b4fc-5c85cee89b25 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/richardson-isd-dallas-football-game-teenager-arrested-gun-berkner-lake-highlands/287-cfefb672-dafa-49e3-b4fc-5c85cee89b25 |
Veritex Community Bank “Good Deeds” Spotlight: The MINT Foundation
In today's Veritex Community Bank "Good Deeds" spotlight, we're featuring a non-profit that has been laying the foundation for a stronger community by providing food, educational and financial assistance programs since 2009.
To learn more about the MINT Foundation's programs and their upcoming holiday events, or if you want to donate, or volunteer, visit MintCares.org, or find them on social media @TheMintCares. | 2022-09-27T17:37:10Z | www.wfaa.com | Veritex Community Bank “Good Deeds” Spotlight: The MINT Foundation | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/veritex-community-bank-good-deeds-spotlight-the-mint-foundation/287-c01cde71-b39f-48bb-8166-84f7b358beb0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/veritex-community-bank-good-deeds-spotlight-the-mint-foundation/287-c01cde71-b39f-48bb-8166-84f7b358beb0 |
More than 20 flights were canceled Tuesday between DFW and Love Field, according to Flight Aware
DALLAS — Hurricane Ian is disrupting travel across the country and DFW is no exception.
Airlines canceled more than 20 flights and delayed more than 100 at DFW and Love Field Tuesday, according to Flight Aware.
The vast majority of canceled flights were scheduled to or from Florida cities Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Key West and Fort Myers.
The delays, though, are for flights scattered throughout the country.
Marla Prather made the last flight from Tampa to DFW Tuesday afternoon. The Dallas-born, now Tampa resident told WFAA she flew home to Texas without hesitation.
"The weather's fixing to be horrible and we stay in a trailer!" she said.
"I’m like, safest place to be is home with mom!"
Prather's original flight was canceled, she said. But she secured a spot on the flight that landed just before 2:30p.m.
Lindsey Cartwright was also on that flight.
She was visiting her family in Tampa. Her mom and grandma will be forced to ride out the storm there, she said, as their flight was canceled.
"I think they’re prepared," she said. "But obviously, them not being from the area, they’re a little scared."
Over at Love Field, Cristy Johnston landed in Dallas from Denver.
She flew in to attend TCU's parents weekend, and told WFAA about a TCU parents Facebook page.
"They're talking about how we should set up booths to give hugs to the Florida kids whose parents might not be able to make it," she said.
"I hope we get to, I hope we get to find those kids and give them the hugs they need if they can’t see their parents." | 2022-09-28T00:26:27Z | www.wfaa.com | Hurricane Ian causes cancelations, delays for DFW flights | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/hurricane-ian-causes-cancelations-delays-dfw-flights/287-4d132511-efcc-4f01-820c-2f3eee42199b | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/hurricane-ian-causes-cancelations-delays-dfw-flights/287-4d132511-efcc-4f01-820c-2f3eee42199b |
Charlece Dawson was photographed recently sitting on the hallway floor helping a student with homework.
CORSICANA, Texas — At Collins Intermediate School in Corsicana, the students really shine, thanks to the custodian.
Lead custodian Charlece Dawson told WFAA kids are always pitching in, polishing tables and picking up trash. Odds are it’s not because they like cleaning, but because they love her.
“She’s funny, she’s nice,” said sixth grader Tevin McKeaver.
“I think really they trying to get out of class, but I don’t know,” said Dawson.
Dawson's happy to have the help, but her greatest contribution isn’t her cleaning. It’s her kindness.
Soon after Dawson started at Collins two years ago, she began helping students. Students like Cory Portis. Portis is a special needs student, and he loves when people scare him. Every day, Dawson obliges.
She’s formed such a deep bond with the kids. They call her "aunty" because they say she’s like family.
“I’m always believing that it takes a village to raise our kids,” Dawson said. “So I’m one of those ones that anything I can do to help, I’m going to help.”
Dawson’s never sought recognition, but got some after the school posted a picture on Facebook. The picture showed her sitting on the hallway floor next to fifth grader Naziya Costello.
Costello was having a hard time navigating the dictionary, so Dawson stopped to help. Just like she did again, when Costello felt nervous and overwhelmed in front of our camera.
Dawson sat and hugged Costello and gave her the confidence to finish the interview.
Oftentimes, we make the mistake of believing we’re limited by our title, but Dawson shows that whatever you may be, you can always be kind.
“This isn’t about me coming in and cleaning up every day, but it’s about me reaching somebody else,” Dawson said. “I’m teaching them it’s your job to help. Help when you see a need.”
Because that is a perfect time to shine. | 2022-09-28T13:37:27Z | www.wfaa.com | 'It takes a village' | Corsicana custodian is part of the family | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/features/corsicana-custodian-is-part-of-the-family/287-73c7d976-7712-425e-b5b8-e650b957ac1c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/features/corsicana-custodian-is-part-of-the-family/287-73c7d976-7712-425e-b5b8-e650b957ac1c |
With five weeks of Texas high school football in the books, we look at the top matchups of the week in the Dallas-Fort Worth area!
DALLAS — Five weeks of Texas high school football are in the books, and top-tier matchups continue to grace the schedule this weekend.
This week, Leslie and Harrison will be calling a 5A-2 District 4 clash between Grapevine and Colleyville Heritage.
WATCH THIS GAME LIVE!@GHSMustangsFB vs. @CHHS_FOOTBALL
Friday at 7 on 𝙁𝙍𝙄𝘿𝘼𝙔 𝙉𝙄𝙂𝙃𝙏 𝙁𝙊𝙊𝙏𝘽𝘼𝙇𝙇
📺: WFAA YouTube channel, or on WFAA+
🎙️: Me & @hekma_harrison https://t.co/pFqjAS5DQz pic.twitter.com/wq5Ddxjbtm
Below are WFAA's top DFW high school football matchups this week – starting with the Grapevine-Colleyville Heritage matchup.
Grapevine (3-1,1-0) vs. Colleyville Heritage (3-1,1-0)
It's the "Battle for the Red Rail!"
These two Grapevine-Colleyville ISD high schools are ranked in 5A-2 and each have suffered only one loss thus far. Grapevine lost to Argyle, 31-15, in week 3, then bounced back against North Side after a bye week. Colleyville Heritage's sole loss came early in the season at the hands of Texas High School in Texarkana.
Both squads handled business in the first week of district play, as Grapevine defeated Fort Worth North Side and Colleyville Heritage shut out Fort Worth Trimble Tech.
Colleyville Heritage is looking to extend its win streak in this rivalry to four straight games.
Dallas Jesuit (4-1,3-0) vs. Highland Park (4-0,2-0)
We've got the top two teams in 6A District 7 in this top 15 area matchup!
Highland Park heads into this game off of a bye and an undefeated record so far, led by quarterback Brennan Storer. Through the team's four games, Storer has thrown for more than 1,000 yards, 13 touchdowns and only one interception.
Dallas Jesuit, however, has the top spot in district with three wins over Richardson Pearce, Irving and Lake Highlands. Jesuit's only loss thus far came against Rockwall in week 2.
First place bragging rights in district are on the line!
Rockwall (4-1,1-0) vs. Mesquite Horn (4-1,1-0)
Here we have another fight for first place in district and what could ultimately decide who claims the top spot in 6A District 10. Rockwall and Mesquite Horn both enter this matchup 4-1 overall and 1-0 in district play. Rockwall defeated Rockwall-Heath and Mesquite Horn knocked off North Forney.
The winner here will take a strong hold of first place in the district standings. The only other team in this district with a win is Mesquite, who beat Tyler Legacy. Meqsuite still has Rockwall and Mesquite Horn on its district slate later in the season, so the winner of this matchup sets themselves up nicely moving forward.
This game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. Friday at Hanby Stadium.
Garland (4-1,3-0) vs. Wylie East (4-0,2-0)
Wylie East is chasing school history in this one! The team has started 4-0 for the first time since 2011, but are shooting for the programs first ever 5-0 start.
Standing in the way is another undefeated team in district play with the Garland Owls. After falling to McKinney North in week 1, Garland has rattled off four straight wins, including three in district play.
Garland, Wylie East and Wylie are the only undefeated teams remaining in 6A District 9, so a win here strengthens that team's position to claim the No. 1 spot.
This game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. Friday at Wylie ISD Stadium.
Coppell (4-0, 1-0) vs. Lewisville (3-1,1-0)
Coppell has started 4-0 for the first time since 2012, and Lewisville's only loss thus far came against Highland Park.
We've got a marquee matchup of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object. Coppell's offense has been a well-oiled machine, scoring 44 points per game in its first four games. Conversely, Lewisville boasts a defense allowing only 16 points per game, which is starred by two top recruits in Cameren Jenkins and Caden Jenkins.
This game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. Friday at Max Goldsmith Stadium.
FW O.D. Wyatt (4-0,1-0) vs. FW Arlington Heights (4-0,1-0)
Here is the other side of the unbeatens in 5A-2 District 4 (see Grapevine-Colleyville Heritage). The winner here will join the winner of Grapevine-Colleyville Heritage as the district's remaining undefeated teams.
Fort Worth O.D. Wyatt has come out on top of a pair of low-scoring affairs (16-13 over Dunbar; 7-6 over Forth Worth Southwest), while Fort Worth Arlington Heights has secured its wins by putting on offensive clinics (49-31 over Joshua; 34-3 over Panther Creek; 50-0 over Fort Worth Poly).
Arlington Heights is averaging 40.5 points per game and allowing 15.5 points per game. O.D. Wyatt has scored only 21 points per game and allowed 16 points per game.
This game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. Friday at Farrington Field.
Palmer (4-0) vs Blooming Grove (4-0)
One last battle of the unbeatens on our schedule here in the DFW area, but in the smaller schools.
Palmer and Blooming Grove enter their first week of district play after sweeping the competition in non-district. Palmer is the defending 3A-2 District 7 champs, and Blooming Grove finished in third last season. The second place finisher, Edgewood, moved to District 9 after realignment, so the winner of this matchup could end up taking the No.1 spot in District 7 this year.
This game is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 p.m. at Lion Stadium.
Southlake Carroll shuts out Haltom 62-0 to remain unbeaten | 2022-09-28T15:43:37Z | www.wfaa.com | TXHSFB: Top DFW high school football matchups of the week | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/high-school/hs-football/txhsfb-top-games-texas-dallas-fort-worth-high-school-football/287-e7b47103-b624-4b8a-8976-bcdfd42dfea5 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/high-school/hs-football/txhsfb-top-games-texas-dallas-fort-worth-high-school-football/287-e7b47103-b624-4b8a-8976-bcdfd42dfea5 |
Fitness and fun with Fitness by Nori
It's easy to get stuck in a fitness rut…Treadmills, ellipticals, and even weight training can be monotonous and boring.
Nori Wyatt, founder and owner of Fitness by Nori, shows us how to meet our fitness goals by tapping into our inner child for some fitness fun.
For more information, go to FitnessbyNori.com. | 2022-09-28T17:45:17Z | www.wfaa.com | Fitness and fun with Fitness by Nori | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/fitness-and-fun-with-fitness-by-nori/287-4e5e7c1f-3629-49f8-a0f3-3a0f4954bc6c | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/fitness-and-fun-with-fitness-by-nori/287-4e5e7c1f-3629-49f8-a0f3-3a0f4954bc6c |
Hurricane Ian updates: What is storm surge?
Facing their first road contest of the 2022 season, the Dallas Cowboys showed that they can shake off adversity and gain ground in the NFC East.
DALLAS — Monday Night Football proved to be prosperous for the Dallas Cowboys in Week 3.
The final score made the game feel closer than it was, especially after a slow first half and with the New York Giants leading in the third quarter, but the Cowboys took care of business with backup quarterback Cooper Rush at the helm and came away with a prime time road win.
Not many outside of the locker room expected the team to be up to the task without franchise quarterback Dak Prescott, but Dallas has rallied to win two straight.
Beating the Giants means the Cowboys have risen to second place in the NFC East. Good things happen when you beat a divisional opponent.
Here is what we know after the Cowboys’ 23-16 win in Week 3:
Cooper Rush keeps answering the bell
The Cowboys have been in games that have come down to making plays in the fourth quarter the last two weeks, and Rush keeps putting the offense in position to win.
In Week 2, it was leading the final drive for the game-winning field goal. This week, it was bringing the Cowboys back from being down a score in the second half.
Rush led three straight scoring drives, adding 17 consecutive points to the tally after Saquon Barkley’s touchdown had put the Giants up seven points late in the third quarter.
After the offense stalled for most of the night, Rush helped bring the Cowboys down the field to tie the game by the end of the third, answering the Barkley score with a touchdown for Dallas.
Good teams – and quarterbacks – answer scores with scores and Rush rose to the occasion again in Week 3.
Red zone inefficiency
The Cowboys didn’t have much issue moving the ball against the Giants but getting the ball in the end zone in the first half proved difficult. The Cowboys got inside the red zone – two first and goal opportunities – twice in the first half, and both drives ended with short field goals from Brett Maher.
Six points on two trips in the red zone won’t cut it against better competition. Exceeding 50% of their red zone drives ending in touchdowns should be the goal. Eventually Dallas did accomplish that versus the Giants. The Cowboys scored touchdowns on both of their red zone chances in the second half, which helped them take over.
Ultimately, however, issues in the red zone need to be fixed moving forward.
Pass rush is elite
The Cowboys produced five sacks against the Giants, and they got home without much blitzing. That’s an elite pass rushing night from the Dallas defense. Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence are the biggest names in the group, but defensive end Dorance Armstrong got his third sack of the season, and the defensive line was constantly pressuring Giants quarterback Daniel Jones.
Dallas notched 5.0 sacks in tonight’s win, and its 13.0 sacks in 2022 lead the NFL. The Cowboys have tallied 13.0 sacks through the first three games only seven times in franchise history, and the last time the club had 13.0 sacks in the first three contests was in 2013.
Dan Quinn had a great scheme prepared and it included lining up Lawrence and Parsons on the same side and attacking a weak right side of the Giants’ offensive line.
Lawrence schooled rookie right tackle Evan Neal and picked up three sacks to lead the way.
Special teams is pitching in
Lost in the win was the play of the special teams units. Armstrong blocked a field goal attempt to keep three points off the game, return man KaVontae Turpin had a 28-yard return that led to a field goal to put the Cowboys up 10 points in the fourth quarter, and punter Bryan Anger had two punts downed inside the 20-yard line.
Those are all big plays that helped the Cowboys win the game.
There are three phases to each game and Dallas excelled on special teams in Week 3.
Running game found right formula
Before Week 3, the Cowboys hadn’t gotten the running game going as the team struggled to find a rhythm. Against the Giants, the Cowboys found their groove on the ground.
Starting running back Ezekiel Elliott got 15 carries, while his partner in crime, Tony Pollard got 13 totes, and the duo responded with a combined 178 yards rushing. It was the first time this year where both running backs got double-digit carries and the tandem had a clear impact on the game.
Pollard led the team with 105 yards, which included an explosive 46-yard run, while Elliott got most of the dirty yards and punched in the rushing score.
It wasn’t an equal split in carries, but it’s right about where the Cowboys want to be to ensure their rushing attack remains effective.
If they can keep their rhythm with how they utilize their backs, Dallas’ offense will be able to keep defenses on their toes. That might have started in the win over the Giants.
What areas have impressed you the most during the Cowboys’ 2-1 start? Share your thoughts with Ben on Twitter @BenGrimaldi. | 2022-09-28T19:38:02Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cowboys serve notice to NFC East with Week 3 win | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/what-we-learned-dallas-cowboys-week-3/287-ed260e9e-b999-421a-a8fd-3b0722e52731 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/what-we-learned-dallas-cowboys-week-3/287-ed260e9e-b999-421a-a8fd-3b0722e52731 |
Republican Tarrant County Judge B. Glen Whitley gives voters a chance to learn more about the democratic Lt. Governor candidate.
FORT WORTH, Texas — In June of 2021, Lt Governor Dan Patrick announced his intentions and future plans in Texas politics.
After announcing his re-election campaign Patrick probably never expected a Texas-size surprise from inside his own political party.
Not only has Republican Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley endorsed Patrick's Democratic opponent, but he also hopes to attract voters too during a Mike Collier meet and greet. The event took place at the Fort Worth Club on Wednesday.
Whitley is a longtime and well-known leader who leads the Tarrant County Commissioner Court. He is one of two Fort Worth leaders who organized the meet and greet.
"I wanted to give everybody an opportunity to just ask questions. It's not a fundraiser," said Whitley. "I wanted to give him an opportunity to talk about his priorities, which are education, infrastructure, and decrease the property taxes."
Collier is campaigning across Texas every day. Collier told WFAA how he and Whitley ended up on the same page despite their different political parties.
"He is very passionate about local control as I am and we have known each other for some time, and I am very honored he would step out and endorse me," said Collier.
Patrick did not make himself available for interviews about the meet and greet. However, campaign consultant Allen Blakemore emailed WFAA the following statement:
“Judge Whitley is a dinosaur, flailing about looking to Biden Democrats like Mike Collier in a search for relevance. The Republican taxpayers and voters who elected Whitley have rejected his skyrocketing property tax increases and his big-spending approach to government — his most recent bloated county budget is a prime example.
“Enter, stage left, Mike Collier, a two-time loser, trying desperately to reinvent himself. He says there’s 'no daylight between him and Joe Biden' while he’s trying to reinvent himself as some kind of reformed Republican. This wacky juxtaposition leaves him with no allies and no real base to launch a credible campaign in 2022."
Whitley has taken some heat for his bold move to endorse someone outside of the Republican Party.
This is his final year serving in politics for Tarrant County. For many years Whitley has earned the respect of fellow politicians not just locally but statewide as well. Others in the Republican Party have joined him in endorsing Mike Collier.
Whitley believes Collier will help put a stop to state mandates that force local government budgets to cover what he calls the state's financial responsibilities.
Whitley uses the example of inmates incarcerated on state charges but held in local jails costing Tarrant County taxpayers to cover their costs for care and imprisonment. Whitley argues if the state paid for its own inmates, county taxes could be lower.
After historic meet and greet, voters may see even more action from Whitley before he leaves office. He told WFAA that if need be, he will help Collier reach even more voters in Tarrant County.
Just like Patrick, Collier plans to increase his presence all across Texas as part of his outreach on the campaign trail. WFAA asked Whitley if he plans to hit the road with Collier.
"You know, I don't know that I'm going to go out. If he asks me, then I'll consider it," said Whitley. | 2022-09-29T00:56:10Z | www.wfaa.com | Tarrant Co. Judge Glen Whitely holds event for Mike Collier | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/elections/republican-tarrant-county-judge-holds-meet-and-greet-for-democratic-lt-governor-candidate/287-001c0607-9a6b-4892-8db5-220874fa624e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/elections/republican-tarrant-county-judge-holds-meet-and-greet-for-democratic-lt-governor-candidate/287-001c0607-9a6b-4892-8db5-220874fa624e |
Ikira is nearly three years away from aging out of the foster system. She has a lot of love to give to a forever family.
DALLAS — The young lady you're about to meet turns 15 years old next month.
When you're in foster care that's just three years away from aging out of the system at the age of 18.
Ikira is special and deserves the most special gift of her life as an early birthday present.
She is tonight's Wednesday's Child.
During our taping at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, 14-year-old Ikira told us one of her favorite hobbies is riding a skateboard.
And sure enough, we met someone who had one in their car and brought it out for Ikira to use.
She was a natural!
Even though she doesn't own a skateboard anymore, the memory of riding one still calms her.
"It's fun and breezy," she said about riding a skateboard.
"I am funny, positive and creative," she said when asked about her personality.
Ikira likes to have fun and go with the flow!
"What I want most in this world is a family and to have fun and to be a doctor," she said.
In foster care longer than she can remember, Ikira finds comfort in the people who show her love.
"To my foster mom I want her to know that I love her and I appreciate her," she said lovingly about the foster mother who provides a roof over her head.
With life's twists, turns and curves, Ikira remains beautiful both inside and out.
When asked how she wants to give back to the world, she said simply "by being nice to people and helping children."
One day, Ikira is going to be a pediatrician. She especially wants to help children who are hurting.
"I have a connection with them," she said.
Next month when she turns 15, Ikira wants a forever family for her birthday present.
"A nice family that loves me. I want to get adopted."
No matter what life dumps on her, Ikira has a legion of advocates by her side. From her foster mother to her CPS caseworker, Ikira says she is happy to have them in her life.
"I have a house, a roof over my head and people that care," she said.
Ikira wanted to send a special message for the people who show her love.
"To my advocates I want to say thank you for being there and helping me."
Happy early birthday Ikira! May your wish to get adopted and to find a forever family come true.
Special shout out to everyone who made this taping possible at Great Wolf Lodge. You heard us mention that Ikira doesn't have a skateboard.
Well that's about to change thanks to the Point Skate Shop in Deep Ellum! They donated a brand new skateboard and helmet for Ikira, which she will receive on her 15th birthday in October.
Thank you, Point Skate Shop!
For more information on how to adopt Ikira, please send all approved home studies to LaQueena Warren at LaQueena.Warren@dfps.texas.gov
Please remember to include Ikira's name 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 Child stories and how to get the adoption process started, click here.
'God, please help us get adopted': 3 sisters praying for their forever home | 2022-09-29T02:35:58Z | www.wfaa.com | Wednesday's Child Ikira, 14, has only one birthday wish – to be adopted | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/outreach/wednesdays-child/wednesdays-child-ikira-one-birthday-wish-to-be-adopted/287-b901493c-cb67-48e4-bb1d-ec548bb2e9fe | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/outreach/wednesdays-child/wednesdays-child-ikira-one-birthday-wish-to-be-adopted/287-b901493c-cb67-48e4-bb1d-ec548bb2e9fe |
Since DFR said it was renting two trucks to maintain full response capabilities while others are repaired, one of those rental trucks has gone out of commission.
DALLAS, Texas — Dallas Fire-Rescue recently informed city council members it was in a predicament: its ladder truck fleet is shorthanded, and two extra trucks needed to be rented to fill gaps in coverage.
One of those rental trucks has arrived and is already out of commission per the Dallas Fire Fighters Association.
It underscores how big of a problem DFR is facing with its fleet and how things could go from bad to worse quickly.
"The state of our fleet is struggling, for lack of a better word," Dallas Fire Fighters Association President Jim McDade.
"It's all come to a head suddenly. Can we deal with it? Yes. Is it optimal? Absolutely not."
Since DFR announced almost two weeks ago that the fleet was in tough shape, another truck has also gone out of service per McDade.
And McDade is specifically worried about how fast a truck can be pulled out of service versus the time it takes to replace one so the agency can maintain its full response capabilities.
The memo to the Dallas City Council states that DFR maintains a 23-vehicle fleet of fire trucks scattered across the city. But nine trucks are currently out of commission due to mechanical issues.
The department has seven ladder trucks in reserve, which are all being utilized now.
That leaves the department down three trucks if you count the additional one that was sidelined since the memo went out.
The two rental trucks would leave the agency only down 1 truck, but since one has already been pulled, DFR is still out of two trucks.
The impacted stations, per McDade, are 4, 36, and 53.
Even though the department is renting trucks to replenish the fleet, McDade feels it's not a foolproof solution.
The department's challenges are supply chain woes and a lack of mechanics.
Ladder trucks are unique and complex machines, if one breaks down or needs fixing, it's not like you can take a quick trip to AutoZone to get parts.
"These trucks have hydraulic systems on them, they have diesel engines, they have mechanical pumps, and they're very technical," McDade said.
It's taking longer to get what mechanics need to fix the apparatuses, and not only that, mechanics are coming up short too.
"We're down probably ten mechanics right now," McDade said. "The city doesn't pay them enough, and they're going into the private industry, it's hard to recruit them."
McDade said the most recent truck placed out of commission should be back on the road sooner rather than later.
But the nine other trucks? It may take anywhere from 30 to 120 days to get them back online, he said.
"That's a very long time, and those are just estimates," McDade said.
The department assured the city that gaps in coverage shouldn't be an issue for now.
"They just send the closest apparatus, so the computers automatically configure everything properly," McDade added.
But McDade remained less optimistic.
A wreck, an accident, or a mechanical hiccup, and the department is out another truck, the catchup game becoming all the longer.
"My fear is that we don't improve. My fear is that we will have some sort of bad accident. I mean, we're talking up to 120 days, and more apparatuses are probably going to have issues in that time," McDade said.
"These trucks didn't all break overnight, this has occurred over the past few months. It needs to be addressed." | 2022-09-29T04:15:22Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas-Fire Rescue continues to struggle with truck rentals | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/first-ladder-truck-rental-for-dallas-fire-rescue-has-arrived-and-already-broken-down/287-610b918d-eb42-44a5-8778-b5deb7ee7fc3 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/first-ladder-truck-rental-for-dallas-fire-rescue-has-arrived-and-already-broken-down/287-610b918d-eb42-44a5-8778-b5deb7ee7fc3 |
Part 2 of our three-part survey also shows how likely Texas voters feel about border policies, abortion access and authorities' responses to the Uvalde tragedy
TEXAS, USA — Less than six weeks before the midterm election, a new poll shows that a majority of Texans are not feeling good about the direction of their state -- or their country.
This second of three reports on "Texas Decides" takes a look at culture war issues. Part 1 took a look at how Texans planned to cast their votes in individual races come November.
Is Texas headed in the right direction? What about the country?
Most notably, this latest report finds that 53% of likely Texas voters believe that the state is headed in the wrong direction -- a bit of a surprising reveal considering that the first report released from this survey showed that Republican incumbents enjoy leads over their challengers in every single statewide race.
Credit: WFAA/THPF
Most voters surveyed in the poll believe Texas is headed in the wrong direction.
Breaking that question down by party lines, however, goes a long way toward explaining that: While just 23% of Republicans think Texas is headed in the wrong direction, 78% of Democrats think that's the case.
En español: Aquí todo lo que necesita saber sobre la elección de noviembre en el norte de Texas
But these opinions aren't just limited to Texas. In fact, 73% of likely Texas voters surveyed in this poll believe the United States is also headed in the wrong direction.
A whopping 73% of likely voters polled believe the United States is headed in the wrong direction.
This opinion rings true across a swath of racial groups -- 77% of likely white voters, 68% of likely Hispanic voters and 55% of likely Black voters in Texas believe the U.S. is headed in the wrong direction.
Are Abbott's border policies working?
Zooming out even farther, the poll reveals that an absolute majority of likely Texas voters support the six border policies implemented by Governor Greg Abbott.
A full 93% of Republicans surveyed approve of Texas Gov. Abbott's border policies.
Broken down by race, white people surveyed by our poll show the most support for Texas Gov. Abbott's border policies.
Here's a breakdown of that support.
66% of likely Texas voters support the arrest of people who cross the border illegally.
60% support the state deploying the Texas National Guard to patrol the border.
60% support the state sending the Texas Department of Public Safety to patrol the border.
57% support Texas building a border wall.
54% support the state paying to send asylum seekers by bus to Chicago, New York City and Washington, D.C..
54% of likely Texas voters support the state spending $1.5 billion every year on border security.
Meanwhile, only 34% approve of the way President Joe Biden is handling the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border.
That number is dwarfed by the 56% who approve of the way Governor Abbott is handling it -- an opinion shared by 54% of Independents and 93% of Republicans.
Two-thirds of Texans support arresting undocumented migrants at the border.
Most likely Texas voters support building a border wall, according to our survey.
How do Texans feel about the state's abortion policies?
When it comes to abortion, 52% of likely Texas voters believe current state law should be modified to make it easier to obtain the procedure, whereas just 11% believe it should be harder. And 37% believe it should be left as is.
The poll also found that 57% of women and 47% of men would make it easier to obtain an abortion in Texas if they were in charge of the matter.
The survey also discovered that 79% of Black women, 58% of Hispanic women and 51% of white women would also make it easier to obtain an abortion in our state if it were up to them.
Most women surveyed in our poll, regardless of race, support easing Texas' abortion restrictions.
How do Texans feel about the police response to the Uvalde massacre?
Finally, in the aftermath of the Uvalde massacre back in May, 48% of Hispanic likely Texas voters say they have a less favorable opinion of Abbott than they had before the tragedy.
Conversely, 32% have a less favorable opinion of his challenger, Democrat Beto O’Rourke, than they had before the mass shooting that left 21 dead, including 19 children.
When it comes to law enforcement, 33% of likely Texas voters said they had a less favorable opinion of the Texas DPS than they had before the tragedy.
Both gubernatorial candidates' reputations took a hit among Hispanic likely voters in the wake of the Uvalde massacre, our poll shows. | 2022-09-29T04:15:24Z | www.wfaa.com | Poll: Most Texans think state is headed in wrong direction | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/poll-more-than-half-texans-think-state-headed-wrong-direction-abortion-border-uvalde/287-7fde6269-5319-4dc1-9c88-e46220a09f9a | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/poll-more-than-half-texans-think-state-headed-wrong-direction-abortion-border-uvalde/287-7fde6269-5319-4dc1-9c88-e46220a09f9a |
There's plenty of shows, festivals, and the kicking-off of the State Fair to check out around DFW this weekend.
DALLAS — It's still pretty hot, but it's finally starting to get cooler as we get deeper into autumn. So, it might be time to start going outside more, taking in a show or a football game. And there's plenty to check out this weekend. Here's what we got:
Elton John at Globe Life Field (Arlington)
This is billed as the farewell tour for the Rocket Man, so if you've ever wanted to see Elton John live, this is probably your last chance. He's put out hit after hit over the decades like "Tiny Dancer," "Benny and the Jets" and "Can You Feel the Love Tonight."
The All-American Rejects at The Echo Lounge & Music Hall (Dallas)
Rhythm & Vibes at Klyde Warren Park (Dallas)
Weird Al Yankovic with Emo Philips at Majestic Theatre (Dallas)
Black Angels at Granada Theater (Dallas)
Pan’s Labyrinth at The Texas Theatre (Dallas)
The Knocks with The Cannons at House of Blues (Dallas)
State Fair Opening Weekend Walk at Fair Park (Dallas)
The State Fair opens Friday, and there's a lot going on this opening weekend. And this weekend will kick off with a free, leisurely group walk across the grounds. So be sure to hydrate, and check out what fried foods you can eat to make yourself sick this year.
The Beach Boys at Texas Trust CU Theatre (Grand Prairie)
Dallas Mimosa Walk: October Fall Festival at Deep Ellum Outdoor Market (Saturday)
The Henny Crawl at Bitter End (Dallas)
Gorillaz at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory (Irving)
Frisco Oktoberfest at Frisco Square (Frisco)
Girlpool at Sundown at Granada (Dallas)
Carbon Leaf at Deep Ellum Art Company (Dallas)
Keith Urban at Dickies Arena (Fort Worth)
Blues Brothers Tribute at Granada Theater (Dallas)
Cowboys vs. Commanders at AT&T Stadium (Arlington)
The Cowboys are back at home following a victory last Monday against the Giants in New York. They'll be facing off against the Washington Commanders, who sit at 1-2 on the young season. So, while some injuries may leave Cowboys fans concerned this season, Dallas remains a favorite over Washington and will be looking to improve to 3-1.
Dallas Soul Food Festival at Lofty Spaces (Dallas)
Origin: The Afrobeat Day Party (Sunday)
The Smashing Pumpkins and Jane’s Addiction at American Airlines Center (Dallas)
The Flaming Lips at South Side Ballroom (Dallas)
Mary J. Blige at Dickies Arena (Fort Worth)
Impressionism Tour at Dallas Museum of Art (Dallas)
Americans Don't Want to Be 'Hangry' | 2022-09-29T13:36:29Z | www.wfaa.com | Things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth this weekend | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/25-things-to-do-north-texas-weekend-celebrate-start-of-fall-check-out-state-fair/287-d112913a-ffd7-4d98-96ea-f65ece97f02f | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/25-things-to-do-north-texas-weekend-celebrate-start-of-fall-check-out-state-fair/287-d112913a-ffd7-4d98-96ea-f65ece97f02f |
Say Yes to You – Kendra Scott
Jane and Kendra chat about her challenges, and strategies we can all use to increase our self-love.
You've heard of the little blue box from Tiffany's, but if you're a woman who likes jewelry you probably know about the little yellow box!
We're of course talking about Kendra Scott jewelry, based out of Austin.
For more information, go to KendraScott.com. | 2022-09-29T18:11:00Z | www.wfaa.com | Say Yes to You – Kendra Scott | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/say-yes-to-you-kendra-scott/287-3e1d0621-1f8c-4287-8a7d-89c3eee8f01b | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/say-yes-to-you-kendra-scott/287-3e1d0621-1f8c-4287-8a7d-89c3eee8f01b |
The founder of The Ticket is up to something. Might it involve a format change for 97.1-FM The Eagle? Here's what we know.
DALLAS — The video at the top of this article originally aired in January 2020.
Dallas sports radio legend Mike Rhyner is apparently coming back to the airwaves the same way he went out: with a long walk down a hallway.
On Thursday morning, Rhyner dropped a 25-second video that seemingly confirmed some radio rumors floating around North Texas this week.
"I'm back, b*tches," Rhyner tells the camera, after a stroll down a darkened hallway.
The video then cuts to text: "The Old Grey Wolf Is Back!"
And with Rhyner's video -- an obvious nod to his 2020 retirement video, when he walked down the same hallway after announcing he left Sportsradio 96.7- FM/1310-AM The Ticket -- the North Texas sports radio landscape might be changing again.
pic.twitter.com/qxsvEVKyEN
On Sunday, Sports Illustrated's Richie Whitt broke the news that Rhyner was planning to return to the airwaves on 97.1-FM in Dallas.
Under a re-brand, according to Whitt's report, the station that's currently known as The Eagle, will be dubbed The Freak and make the change to an all-sports format.
The move would bring a third local sports talk station back into the DFW market. In 2020, ESPN Radio exited the North Texas airwaves, leaving The Ticket and 105.3-FM The Fan as the two sports stations in town.
To this point, nothing has been explicitly confirmed about The Freak outside of Whitt's report and some additional hints at the forthcoming changes.
IHeartMedia, which owns 97.1-FM, has not publicly confirmed the new format or personnel, and Rhyner did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.
Even Rhyner's video made no mention of the rumored new station The Freak or how exactly he plans to be coming "back."
But it doesn't take much reading of the tea leaves to know something is up.
For example, just last week, Rhyner tweeted about his Tom Petty cover band's upcoming gig at Lee Harvey's by posing the question, "Where all my freaks at?"
Then, on Wednesday morning, a press release from iHeartMedia landed in the inbox of the WFAA newsroom. It included an invitation to "a very freaky celebration!" on Monday night (their underline, not ours), featuring Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and iHeartMedia region president Paul Corvino.
The release included no other details about the celebration; it was just an invitation. But using some context clues here -- the timing of recent reports, Rhyner's tweet, the supposed freakiness of the event and 97.1-FM being the radio station that broadcasts Mavs games -- could this all be related to a reveal of The Freak?
We'll see.
A return to the air for Rhyner would alone mark a substantial shakeup in the local radio scene. Rhyner founded The Ticket and hosted its "The Hardline" afternoon show until his retirement in 2020.
If he joins 97.1-FM as all signs suggest, he'd now be in direct competition with his former station.
And what might be just as interesting to diehard Ticket listeners are the rumors of the other moves that could come with The Freak.
Whitt's report named former Ticket personalities Julie Dobbs and Mike Sirois as two more additions expected to join the revamped 97.1-FM, along with former host on 105.3-FM The Fan host Jeff Cavanaugh.
Dobbs and Sirois left The Ticket earlier this year amid a rash of station departures that also included Danny Balis, Rhyner's longtime producer on "The Hardline."
Those departures led to a series of staff shuffling at The Ticket, with "The Hardline" adding to its team a third host in Dave Lane, a longtime contributor at the station.
So, after a summer of DFW sports radio changes, it seems the biggest shifts might still be on the way.
Switching it up: The Ticket just announced several changes, including a new host
A look back at Ticket legend Mike Rhyner's Hall of Fame career | 2022-09-29T19:41:54Z | www.wfaa.com | Is The Ticket's Mike Rhyner staging a comeback at The Freak? | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/im-back-the-ticket-mike-rhyner-is-returning-somewhere-is-it-as-host-on-the-freak/287-3f857ae6-564d-4d11-b1f4-1daa01afac67 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/im-back-the-ticket-mike-rhyner-is-returning-somewhere-is-it-as-host-on-the-freak/287-3f857ae6-564d-4d11-b1f4-1daa01afac67 |
Southwest Florida is known for its beauty. But nothing makes Southwest Florida more beautiful, I believe, than its people.
FORT MYERS, Fla. — Southwest Florida is known for its beauty.
It’s beautiful beaches, sunsets and seashells.
But nothing makes Southwest Florida more beautiful, I believe, than its people.
I moved to Fort Myers in June 2019 for my first TV news gig.
I was nervous. I’m sure the viewers there could tell.
But still, they were kind.
Trusted me to capture the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
For that, I am forever grateful.
There are a lot of eyes on Southwest Florida now. Not for its beauty, but for its brokenness.
Lives will change.
Recovery will take years.
A lot, no doubt, is broken.
In the next few days, you’ll hear about several different SWFL cities and the destruction there.
I’d like to tell you, though, if you’ll allow me, about a few of the people who make those places, indeed, so beautiful.
When I think of Marco Island, I think of Terry Kehoe.
The Vietnam vet who mourned the loss of his scout dog 49 years after the war, crying in the grass in front of the traveling memorial wall when it came to the island.
When I think of Englewood, I think of Sandy Bilsky.
The 79-year-old grandpa in kidney failure who fought like hell to find a selfless neighbor to donate a kidney to keep him alive.
And I think of Lori Klein.
The generous 51-year-old stranger who lived down the road and offered her kidney without hesitation.
When I think of Cape Coral, I think of Teresa King.
The dedicated COVID ICU nurse who held her patient’s hand and sang his favorite Jimmy Buffett song as he died without any family by his side.
When I think of Bonita Springs, I think of Mendy Greenberg.
The orthodox rabbi who found it in his heart to forgive the teenagers who vandalized his home with antisemitic graffiti.
When I think of Naples, I think of Rosette Gerbosi.
The 89-year-old Holocaust survivor, who, despite being dealt one of the worst hands ever, never pitied herself. Instead, she celebrated the chance to live another day.
And when I think about Fort Myers, I think of Mike Machi.
My former boss who showed me grace every day I cried in our news station’s radio booth after my dad died.
There are several people better qualified to tell you about Hurricane Ian.
There are several people better qualified to tell you about the struggles ahead.
But take my word for it: the people of Southwest Florida are gorgeous.
They have my support, and I pray yours too. | 2022-09-29T19:42:25Z | www.wfaa.com | Hurricane Ian: Letter to Southwest Florida residents | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/opinion/wfaa-reporter-and-former-florida-resident-sydney-persing-devastation-of-hurricane-ian/287-2fdbc815-2b5a-434f-b68f-eab791678d8e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/opinion/wfaa-reporter-and-former-florida-resident-sydney-persing-devastation-of-hurricane-ian/287-2fdbc815-2b5a-434f-b68f-eab791678d8e |
Police say a man and woman in a black sedan are robbing women of jewelry around Regents Park. At least two walkers have been ambushed by the couple this month.
FRISCO, Texas — Police are warning the public about robberies happening around a neighborhood park in North Texas.
Frisco police say an unidentified man and woman have been targeting people and their stealing jewelry in the 14000 block at Regents Park.
"Usually, I feel very safe,” said Bhavrea Sri, as she walked the trail around the park on Thursday morning.
Neighbors said they typically feel secure taking walks around the quiet subdivision near Regents Park. However, recent robberies have shaken that sense of security.
”I feel very scary, and feel somewhat uncomfortable,” said Sri.
The Frisco Police Department has launched an investigation into the robberies. Investigators said a unidentified couple is approaching women who appear to be wearing jewelry during their walks.
Police said a female suspect first engages the victim in light conversation. Then, the suspects snatch jewelry from victim's neck and leave the area.
Police said there have been at least two reported jewelry robberies in the area. The first was on Sept. 13. The other, this week, on Sept. 27. In both incidents, the crimes happened just after 7:30 p.m. Both victims sustained injuries during the ambush.
“Most everyone is alert,” said Sri.
Witnesses described the alleged robbers to police as a heavy-set woman and a male driver in a black sedan.
Police are advising neighbors to be aware of their surroundings and mindful of anyone getting close to your personal space.
More headlines across Frisco: | 2022-09-30T00:15:59Z | www.wfaa.com | Frisco police: Investigation into robberies at Regents Park | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/frisco-police-woman-robbed-regent-park/287-6ab90112-6825-45c5-bb9d-a90093551911 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/frisco-police-woman-robbed-regent-park/287-6ab90112-6825-45c5-bb9d-a90093551911 |
Two victims report robberies while walking near neighborhood park, Frisco police say
Parents forced recess at a FWISD board meeting, insisting they be heard about school bus stop errors.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Parents in Fort Worth whose children ride the school bus are looking for assurances that their kids get dropped off at the right stop.
One parent said they were shunned at a school board meeting, and now the district is doing something.
In a recent video recorded aboard a bus during an incorrect drop-off, you can hear children crying and screaming.
"This is not there stop, These kids don't belong here," can be heard in the recording.
When Fort Worth mother Isabel Arreola got interrupted playing video of her daughter and other children getting dropped off at the wrong school bus stop, the Fort Worth ISD board meeting erupted with outcries from other concerned parents like Gloria Williams.
Several parents starting yelling for the school board sound technician to turn the microphone back on for Arreola. Williams is one of the mothers in the audience who became upset that no one took their concerns under immediate attention.
"I was upset that nobody took responsibility when we started reaching out to people? They just kept calling it an incident," said Williams.
Williams and her husband had already brought their concerns to the school district in writing after sending an email.
A school bus driver dropped their two daughters on Lowden Street in Fort Worth, which is several blocks away. The assigned school bus stop for their children is one block away.
But on a Friday in September, the driver insisted they exit the school bus according to the parents not only blocks away from home but across Hemphill Street in a completely different neighborhood.
Williams said, "They were telling them that it wasn't their stop and just hysterical, Just two little girls hysterical."
After a school board member told the parents they would talk with them later about their concerns, Williams said new superintendent Dr. Angelica Ramsey gave them a personal promise.
"That's what we were told by her personally," said Williams, "We had a separate meeting with her in the room and she told us that she would handle it."
"I am just doing my job," said Ramsey.
Ramsey just took over as new school superintendent at Fort Worth ISD. She came from a smaller district that has some of the same challenges and characteristics.
Ramsey is described as a hands-on type of leader. Even during her last week in her previous district, she continued doing school site visits to check on teachers, staff and students.
One of her goals is to improve the community relationship between the school board and parents who are actively involved in their children's education. She is also a strong advocate for the PTA (Parent Teachers Association).
After three wrong drop-offs in September alone, parents wait at school bus stops hoping it doesn't happen again.
Williams and other concerned parents are still waiting on the district's plan to make sure students are always dropped off at the right bus stop.
Fort Worth ISD shared its safety plan that includes adding technical enhancements to track buses, giving consistent cross-training to transportation staff and meeting with parents to promptly address their concerns. | 2022-09-30T00:16:05Z | www.wfaa.com | Parents want Fort Worth ISD to be accountable for wrong bus stops | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/parents-hold-fort-worth-isd-accountable-wrong-school-bus-drop-offs/287-88791f69-7c62-40ed-96ba-c864a6c33137 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/parents-hold-fort-worth-isd-accountable-wrong-school-bus-drop-offs/287-88791f69-7c62-40ed-96ba-c864a6c33137 |
Big Tex Choice Awards taste test
If you’re anything like Hannah, you know the fair is all about the food…and some of the most memorable bites you will take come from the Big Tex Award winners.
Hannah shows Jane some of her favorite picks.
For more information about food at the fair, go to BigTex.com. | 2022-09-30T19:24:52Z | www.wfaa.com | Big Tex Choice Awards taste test | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/big-tex-choice-awards-taste-test/287-fe92fdbc-b526-4978-ac57-fd470308810e | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/big-tex-choice-awards-taste-test/287-fe92fdbc-b526-4978-ac57-fd470308810e |
Kroger & State Fair of Texas
A longtime state fair tradition has been totally re-imagined for this year! The Kroger Starlight Parade happens every night and features over-the-top, Texas-themed floats for the whole family!
John Votava, director of Corporate Affairs with Kroger Dallas, shares how you can enjoy all the parade has to offer and save a little money.
The Kroger Starlight Parade runs every night at 7:15 pm.
For more information, go to BigTex.com. | 2022-09-30T19:25:13Z | www.wfaa.com | Kroger & State Fair of Texas | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/kroger-state-fair-of-texas/287-a1611295-10d2-4b00-8ac8-23e92d5a24b0 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/kroger-state-fair-of-texas/287-a1611295-10d2-4b00-8ac8-23e92d5a24b0 |
State Fair of Texas 2022
The state fair of Texas is known for celebrating all things Texan and this year is all about the treats of Texas.
State fair of Texas spokesperson Karissa Condoianis is here to tell us everything we need to know about this year's 24-day exposition.
You can find out everything you need to know about the 2022 State Fair of Texas from tickets to food and fun at BigTex.com. | 2022-09-30T19:25:32Z | www.wfaa.com | State Fair of Texas 2022 | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/state-fair-of-texas-2022/287-36616fb7-b712-48f4-90d3-57643d66711f | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/state-fair-of-texas-2022/287-36616fb7-b712-48f4-90d3-57643d66711f |
Dallas' historic Cedar Crest Golf Course is back open. And more upgrades are on the way.
The new greens aren't the only upgrade at Cedar Crest, a city course that hosted the 1927 PGA Championship.
Cedar Crest Golf Course on Friday morning in Dallas.
DALLAS — A piece of Dallas history is back open, and more is on the way.
Cedar Crest Golf Course reopened Friday morning after a three-month closure to replace damaged greens with new Bermuda grass. Radio One's annual celebrity golf scramble was held Friday, and play will be open to the public starting Monday.
Cedar Crest shut down before this summer to undergo renovations.
And the new greens aren't the only upgrade at Cedar Crest, a city course that hosted the 1927 PGA Championship.
The course has also secured funding for two statues: One for Walter Hagen, the golf Hall of Famer who won the 1927 tournament, and Charles Sifford, the first Black golfer on the PGA Tour who won a tournament at Cedar Crest in the 1950s.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson and councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold, who represents Cedar Crest's District 4, were among the Dallas city leaders at the ribbon-cutting event Friday.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, center, cuts a ribbon at the reopening of the Cedar Crest Golf Course.
Johnson called Cedar Crest "one of Dallas' crown jewel attractions, period."
"But certainly the crown jewel of our municipal golf courses," Johnson said. "I'm so happy that we're reopened, we got our greens repaired and we're ready for some great golf."
Golfers tee off at Cedar Crest Golf Course on Friday morning.
The Hagen and Sifford statues will honor two key figures in Cedar Crest's rich history.
Hagen, an 11-time major winner, won the 1927 PGA Championship at Cedar Crest, the first major golf tournament held in Texas. Sifford won the United Golf Association's Negro National Open at Cedar Crest in 1954. Sifford, known as the "Jackie Robinson of golf," later became the first Black golfer on the PGA Tour, breaking the color barrier in 1961.
"Everyone needs to know what Cedar Crest has meant to golf for decades, and really over 100 years," Malayo said. "The No. 1 thing that we want to do is share our history and be a better partner with the community."
The Hagen statue will show "the championship pedigree of what the golf course really is," Malayo said.
And the Sifford statue might be even more important.
"To be in this neighborhood in southern Dallas and be apart of what this neighborhood and what this golf course means to the southern Dallas community, it's imperative that we celebrate Charlie Sifford and his win," Malayo said, "and what he did for golf and what he did for African-Americans in our country."
Plano's Will Zalatoris gets 1st PGA Tour win in playoff at Memphis
Kids from the Momentous Institute spend a day with tour pros and their wives at the AT&T Byron Nelson | 2022-09-30T19:25:50Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cedar Crest Golf Course is back open now | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/golf/dallas-historic-cedar-crest-golf-course-pga-championship-is-back-open-and-more-upgrades-are-on-the-way/287-7c9c0831-b920-432c-a982-202b10eef315 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/golf/dallas-historic-cedar-crest-golf-course-pga-championship-is-back-open-and-more-upgrades-are-on-the-way/287-7c9c0831-b920-432c-a982-202b10eef315 |
The Dallas Cowboys get their first look at the Washington Commanders in Week 4 as they attempt to continue their winning ways in the NFC East.
Another NFC East game is on tap for the Dallas Cowboys as they welcome the Washington Commanders to Arlington in Week 4.
It’s the first time that the team from D.C. arrives as the Commanders, and they’ll be wearing all black uniforms. So, if you don’t recognize the team, rest assured, it’s Washington.
As the rivalry gets ready to begin anew, the Cowboys have won two straight with a quarterback that very few people had faith in outside the team itself. Cooper Rush is now 3-0 as a starting quarterback dating back to last season, and a fourth win could be in the cards as long as Dallas doesn’t play down to Washington’s level.
After getting embarrassed by another rival last Sunday – the Philadelphia Eagles – expect Ron Rivera’s team to give the Cowboys all they can handle in this matchup.
Here are the keys for Dallas to get their winning streak to three games and further push the Commanders down in the division in Week 4:
Avoid a letdown
The Cowboys are coming off a big road win against the previously-unbeaten New York Giants on Monday night. That means it’s a short turnaround as the team prepares for the Commanders, who played in the early slot last Sunday.
Both teams played division rivals, so there was added juice expended, but the Commanders got their doors blown off against Philadelphia. It’s hard to imagine Washington playing much worse and they’ll be ready with a better effort against the Cowboys.
Dallas needs to match the energy that will surely come this week. The Cowboys have a tendency to bring out the best in their opponents and when a team plays as poorly as the Commanders did last week, it’s hard to see a repeat of that in the following game. Expect the best Washington has to offer in Week 4 which means the Cowboys must be ready to respond in kind.
Slow down a good WR group
The Commanders have one of the more dynamic wide receiver groups in the league. They’re led by wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who is tops on the team in receiving yards (235), and is averaging 19.6 yards per catch, good for third-best in the league.
Veteran hybrid wide receiver Curtis Samuel leads the team in receptions (22), while also being utilized as a helper in the running game with eight carries. Samuel averages 6.4 yards per carry, over three yards better than any other running back for the Commanders, so the Dallas defense needs to prepare for the shifty weapon to get a high number of touches in a variety of ways.
In addition, rookie wide receiver Jahan Dotson leads the team in touchdowns with three on the year.
Pressure QB Carson Wentz
The Cowboys have one of the best pass rushing units in the NFL as they lead the league in sacks with 13. In the last two games, Dallas has gotten to the quarterback for 11 sacks, led by Micah Parsons who has four, and defensive ends DeMarcus Lawrence and Dorance Armstrong with three apiece.
In Week 3, the Commanders allowed nine sacks to the Eagles, and in the process, took over the league lead in sacks taken with 15. The stage is set to have the Cowboys harass quarterback Carson Wentz and increase their sack total on the season.
Teams with the most sacks this season…#Cowboys - 13#Eagles - 12#Bills, #Buccaneers - 11#Chiefs, #Texans, #Patriots - 10
The fewest…#Colts, #Saints - 4#Giants - 3#Cardinals, #Raiders - 2
Not all takedowns are created equal, the Commanders don’t have a great offensive line, but Wentz tends to hold onto the ball when trying to extend plays. That fight to keep plays alive leads to sacks, and the Cowboys have done well in the last two weeks playing quarterbacks with that type of makeup.
Attack in the passing game
Washington has one of the worst passing defenses in the league and have given up an NFL-high eight touchdowns through the air. In the last two weeks, the Commanders have allowed seven touchdown passes.
The Cowboys haven’t hit their stride yet in the passing game, but Washington could be the cure for what has been ailing them and reinforcements are on the way. Last week was wide receiver CeeDee Lamb’s best game of the season, and the offense could be getting former 1,000-yard receiver Michael Gallup back in the lineup.
Michael Gallup is "on a good path" and #Cowboys look for him to "do everything" to end the week ... and MM sounds optimistic about "having him for Sunday" vs. Commanders.
Gallup himself made the W3 decision - wanting "a couple more padded practices" prior to 2022 debut.
Gallup might not be ready for a large dose of snaps, but teammate Noah Brown has been playing well in his place. Brown has five catches in each of Dallas’ first three games and leads the team in receiving yards with 213. Brown and Gallup, paired with Lamb, will give the Cowboys their best set of wide receivers this season.
The expectation is that tight end Dalton Schultz will also play in Week 4 after missing the game on Monday night, giving Kellen Moore and Rush the top options in the passing game.
Dallas shouldn’t have much issue moving the ball through the air against a Commander's secondary that hasn’t shown an ability to stop the pass. Success through the air should make a complete offense for the Cowboys, and give them a better chance at extending their winning streak to three.
Do you think the Cowboys will make it three wins in a row on Sunday? Share your predictions with Ben on Twitter @BenGrimaldi. | 2022-09-30T19:25:56Z | www.wfaa.com | Keys for Dallas Cowboys versus Washington Commanders in Week 4 | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/dallas-cowboys-week-4-keys-to-victory/287-af83209a-1788-4fa3-8529-6b3f99e05f26 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/dallas-cowboys-week-4-keys-to-victory/287-af83209a-1788-4fa3-8529-6b3f99e05f26 |
Cowboys' Jerry Jones hopeful about team's prognosis with help on the way
There have been trials and tribulations for the Dallas Cowboys early in the 2022 season but owner Jerry Jones is optimistic the team is on the right track.
DALLAS — There is a glass half-full, half-empty approach to the injuries to the Dallas Cowboys' top tier starters on offense.
The thumb injury to quarterback Dak Prescott's throwing hand would be a season-destroyer if not for the fact that Cooper Rush has stepped up, winning both of his starts. Similarly All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith tearing his hamstring would have negative implications if not for first-rounder Tyler Smith excelling at left tackle and future Hall-of-Famer Jason Peters lending his experience to the offensive line.
In terms of glass half-full, that is the only way Cowboys owner Jerry Jones likes to imbibe on reality.
#Cowboys' Jerry Jones tells @1053thefan he doesn't care if Noah Brown or Michael Gallup is making plays. Says it should happen that the guys that you're paying should open it up for the guys you're not paying.
"To address this adversity of losing Dak early, so early, but to address that from within, which meant everybody step up a notch, everybody execute; more of a mental attentiveness, a little more physical," Jones told "K&C Masterpiece" on 105.3 "The Fan" [KRLD-FM] on Friday. "Everybody adds a percent or two or five percent — everything they do positively. What’s your mistakes? Just your awareness. Get on our game a little more to overcome."
Although the defense has not generated the same number of takeaways through the first three games as they did in 2021, the pass rush has produced 13 sacks, leading the NFL. Dallas is also first in tackles for loss with 21.
Said Jones: "I’m going to use this analogy. We’ve seen in our physical makeup, we’ve seen handicaps or some areas that have diminished physically. Well, you make up for that, the body’s a wonderful thing, and you make up for it with another trait in your makeup."
#Cowboys owner Jerry Jones went on @1053thefan and referred to Randy Gregory as Randy Galloway at first. pic.twitter.com/qNeC3Ih6Zn
With the Cowboys at 2-1 and preparing to face Washington on Sunday at 12 p.m. at AT&T Stadium, just a game back of the 3-0 Philadelphia Eagles for first place in the NFC East, Jones looks forward to later on in the season when the top tier players return and give the Cowboys more ammunition.
"I think that’s what you’re seeing in this team and a big part of that would be just resolve, band together," Jones said. "We can make it. Dak gives us a lot of things to look forward to. Tyron Smith gives us a lot of things to look forward to. Let’s hold the fort or let’s get the job done while these guys aren’t here because we can have them all when we get to the playoff time if we do a good job to get there.”
Do you think the Cowboys are in a good place through three weeks? Share your thoughts with Mark on Twitter @therealmarklane.
Can Dallas Cowboys CB Trevon Diggs Stop Terry McLaurin Again? | 2022-09-30T21:53:14Z | www.wfaa.com | Dallas Cowboys' Jerry Jones hopeful about team's prognosis | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/cowboys-jerry-jones-hopeful-about-teams-prognosis-help-on-way/287-fde4fd93-b0a6-473e-a716-74065df7a007 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nfl/cowboys/cowboys-jerry-jones-hopeful-about-teams-prognosis-help-on-way/287-fde4fd93-b0a6-473e-a716-74065df7a007 |
WATCH: Immigration, abortion and economy expected to take center stage when Abbott, O’Rourke debate Friday
Author: James Barragán, The Texas Tribune
EDINBURG, Texas — Immigration, abortion, the economy and guns are expected to be major topics of conversation Friday night as Republican Gov. Greg Abbott faces off against his Democratic challenger, Beto O’Rourke, in their only planned debate ahead of the Nov. 8 election.
You can watch the debate here:
This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune here. The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org. | 2022-10-01T00:08:14Z | www.wfaa.com | Texas Gov. Debate: Immigration, abortion and economy top of mind | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/immigration-abortion-economy-center-stage-abbott-orourke-only-governor-debate/287-0c4b3e9b-5341-4420-83af-409467a59912 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/immigration-abortion-economy-center-stage-abbott-orourke-only-governor-debate/287-0c4b3e9b-5341-4420-83af-409467a59912 |
A meeting was held in Sandbranch Saturday to talk about how the community can get clean drinking water.
SAND BRANCH, Texas — Representatives from the National Wildlife Federation and the Environmental Protection Agency attended a Saturday meeting in Sandbranch to talk about getting drinking water to the community.
Located about 20 minutes south of Dallas, Sandbranch was founded by freed people of color in the 1800s and is in unincorporated Dallas County. The community has not had access to a municipal water or sewage system in roughly 30 years.
“My thing is: I just want to see this as a regular community,” resident Phyllis Gage said. “I have a well. The well is so old that the water has sand built up in it so you can’t drink this water.”
Residents rely on bottled water for cooking, bathing and eating.
“We’re paying taxes. So where’s my tax money going?” Gage said.
Community members told WFAA they have little faith in local government to find a solution. There was a meeting Saturday to talk about SOURCE Hydropanels as a way to get drinking water to the community.
A clearer understanding is laid out here, but essentially, the panels are powered by the sun and use fans to draw in ambient air that traps water vapors from that air.
Four Sandbranch homes already have hydro panels, including Juanita Bean’s house.
"But when I got this, I was very happy,” Bean said.
Community supporter Tonnette Byrd told WFAA seven other homes will be getting Hydropanels soon: Two of those homes were funded by the National Wildlife Federation.
“It’s almost like a third world country,” said Dr. Adrienne Hollis, who leads the National Wildlife Federation’s environmental justice team. “But the community is so resilient in the face of all of that.”
During Saturday’s meeting in Sandbranch, Hollis called on other organizations to help pay for hydro panels for six more homes.
Hollis told WFAA it costs around $8,000 to outfit one home with two hydropanels.
Byrd, who led Saturday’s meeting, pointed out that hydropanels are not a permanent solution: The goal is a drinking water system.
Money for that could come with help from the Environmental Protection Agency. Charles Maguire is the EPA Region 6 Water Division Director. He told WFAA he attended Saturday’s meeting to see the conditions firsthand.
“Can’t promise anybody the money because it is a competitive process for those grants, but this would be a very likely recipient of those grants because it’s exactly what the Congress was thinking about when they passed that law," Maguire said.
To make a donation to pay for hydro panels for Sandbranch residents, click here and select “Sandbranch Revitalization Fund." | 2022-10-02T04:59:34Z | www.wfaa.com | Agencies meet with Dallas community in hopes of getting water | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/national-wildlife-federation-epa-look-get-drinking-water-dallas-community/287-b42eb5db-8257-454b-ad63-e476e3ba22e2 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/national-wildlife-federation-epa-look-get-drinking-water-dallas-community/287-b42eb5db-8257-454b-ad63-e476e3ba22e2 |
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — There were tears, hugs and pure excitement over at Flour Bluff Intermediate School Monday morning when a mom and Navy reservist, who had been deployed for the last 10 months, surprised her two kids who had no idea she was coming home.
Kids can grow a lot in 10 months.
"You're so tall!" Master-at-Arms Chief Petty Officer Select K. Lindsey Shinn-Tijerina told her daughter when they hugged. "You were shorter than me when I left!"
Shinn-Tijerina has been in Africa for over 10 months at Camp Lemonnier Djibouti-Horn in East Africa. She has been there for Operation Aqea Al Qaeda. | 2022-10-03T16:24:30Z | www.wfaa.com | Texas military mom surprises kids after deployment | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/life/heartwarming/after-deployment-surprise/503-00489b73-5fd5-43cf-9416-716ad7f74272 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/life/heartwarming/after-deployment-surprise/503-00489b73-5fd5-43cf-9416-716ad7f74272 |
Jaime Jaramillo's wife confronted him and his alleged mistress outside of a store in 2021. Officer Richard Houston showed up and was later shot by Jaramillo.
MESQUITE, Texas — A woman's court case has been dismissed in an incident that happened during a North Texas police officer's shooting death.
Her husband, Jaime Jaramillo, was found guilty for the 2021 shooting in September.
A court document revealed that an aggravated assault charge was dropped against Juventina Vazquez-Bences. She was accused of threatening her husband's alleged mistress near a Mesquite grocery store in December 2021.
Officer Richard Houston responded to calls about the incident. He approached Vazquez-Bences' husband, Jaime Jaramillo, as he tried to drive off. That's when Jaramillo shot Houston, who later died in a hospital.
RELATED: Mesquite police identify officer who was fatally shot outside grocery store
The court document says Vazquez-Bences was a helpful witness in Jaramillo's capital murder trial and was ready to testify against him if he was convicted on a smaller offense.
With her charge being dropped, Vazquez-Bences has agreed to not contact her husband's alleged girlfriend or that woman's family.
WFAA obtained an arrest warrant in 2021 saying she took Jaramillo's gun after the shooting and threatened his mistress.
"Get out," Vazques Bences allegedly told the girlfriend, who was in a vehicle, according to the warrant. "I'm going to kill you."
RELATED: Court documents reveal more details about what led to fatal shooting of Mesquite police officer
She also agreed for her and her daughter to get counseling and therapy, court documents said. Her daughter was with her on the day of the shooting when they confronted Jaramillo for his alleged affair. She also cooperated as a witness in Jaramillo's trial.
If Vasquez-Bences don't follow through with the agreements, the assault charge will be refiled, prosecutors said.
Daughter of slain Mesquite police officer impact statement to killer: 'I want to know the heart and soul behind the gun'
Daughter of fallen Mesquite officer shares her father's last text to her during emotional eulogy
Family, officers from around the state gather to honor, remember fallen Mesquite officer | 2022-10-03T16:24:43Z | www.wfaa.com | Case dismissed for wife of man convicted for officer's murder | wfaa.com | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/mesquite-officer-richard-houston-death-man-found-guilty-suspects-wife-assault-charge-dropped-case-dismissed/287-0d844463-a1e0-4dbc-a281-57a5ea60cc98 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/mesquite-officer-richard-houston-death-man-found-guilty-suspects-wife-assault-charge-dropped-case-dismissed/287-0d844463-a1e0-4dbc-a281-57a5ea60cc98 |
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