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Texas DPS investigating fatal U.S. 84 crash
A 17-year-old woman was killed in a crash on U.S. 84 after a driver on the wrong side of the road collided with the front of her vehicle.
Texas DPS said the crash occurred around 7 p.m. on Thursday near Limestone County Road 368, east of Prairie Hill. Troopers responded to the scene after the driver of a Ford Conversion Van drove onto the wrong side of the road, and crashed into the front of a Toyota.
"The passenger of the Toyota, a 17-year-old female, was pronounced dead at the scene," said DPS. "Occupants of both vehicles were transported to surrounding hospitals to be treated for a possible injury."
Next of kin were notified, and the investigation is still ongoing at this time.
"Call 911 immediately to report wrong-way drivers," said DPS. "If you see a wrong-way driver approaching, immediately reduce your speed and pull off the roadway." | 2022-02-11T23:33:20Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-dps-investigating-fatal-u-s-84-crash | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-dps-investigating-fatal-u-s-84-crash |
KILLEEN, Texas — If you served in the U.S. Army in the past 40 years, odds are the gear you used was either designed or tested by John Diem and his team at Operational Test Command.
”I’ve been in the Army about 31 years and Mr. Diem has been part of either the actual testing of or overseeing of most of the equipment that I have used in my military career,” said William A. Justice, former command sergeant major of OTC.
From his work on tanks and the Apache helicopters to small arms and state-of-the-art communications technology, Diem has made sure that soldiers have the best and safest gear out there.
”I have gotten to be part of testing everything from networks to rockets and tanks. Pretty much everything that went to a soldier, I got to be part of it,” said John Diem, Retiring Executive Director of U.S. Army Operational Test Command.
Those who have served in combat over the last few decades have seen the effects of Diem’s work on the battlefield.
”I would say that no doubt, his work has led to the accomplishment of many missions and saved many lives.” said Justice.
With big shoes to fill, Diem has some advice for his replacement.
”Love this job. Your mission is unlike any other. It is the best job in the Army...” said Diem.
From his OTC team to the folks he worked with at A&M Central Texas, everyone's got a message.
”You have been one of the finest people I have known in my time in the Army and I appreciate everything you have done from me and my wife,” said Justice.
”John, we wish well in your retirement and thank you for everything you have done,” said Russ Porter, VP of Research at Texas A&M Central Texas.
”We wish him well but if he thinks he has gotten rid of us, he’s mistaken," said Marc Nigliazzo, President of Texas A&M Central Texas.
Deem is retiring from OTC but his research and dedication will continue as he moves on to be part of the legacy at Texas A&M University. | 2022-02-12T02:33:28Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/executive-director-who-designed-tested-gear-for-u-s-army-retires-after-40-years | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/executive-director-who-designed-tested-gear-for-u-s-army-retires-after-40-years |
MCGREGOR, Texas — Mcgregor residents are once again dealing with loud noise, rumbling floors, and shaking walls.
"We had some very specific conversations with Space-X and they knew the problem had hit a proportion where it was really not what anybody had bargained for in the McGregor area," Mayor Jim Hering told 25 News.
For a short time, they were able to limit the noise by testing their rockets vertically instead of horizontally, giving the sound a chance to be absorbed by the ground.
"Sound goes into the ground, into a flame and sound averter," Mayor Hering said. "It's made of concrete and steel and covered in water, and it really does kill the sound."
While that worked for a little while, a malfunction led them to return to their original style of testing. For McGregor residents, that means the sound is back.
"It's pretty loud," resident Camryn Thane said. "You kind of just stop what you're doing and I guess wait for it to finish. It's hard to hear other people or if you're watching something, it's hard to understand or focus on what you're doing."
Camryn Thane has lived in McGregor her whole life and dealt with the Space-X tests since middle school. She said it seems to be getting louder and more often, a growing concern for many.
"Buildings downtown, there's a lot of plaster falling off the walls," she said. "There's a lot of people moving to the area, a lot of new houses being built so it's great that Space-X brings that revitalization to the town but I'm just wondering if we're prepared, if the historic buildings are prepared."
Mayor Hering said they've communicated with Space-X and the company has promised to address those concerns.
"People want to know it's going to get fixed, that this isn't going to continue indefinitely," he said. "Space-X tells me that it's not and I believe them, so we'll see."
A test happened after 10 p.m. on Thursday night, which is more than an hour after city guidelines allow for them. In a previous interview, city officials told 25 News that every time that happens, Space-X can be charged up to $25,000. | 2022-02-12T02:33:34Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/late-night-space-x-testing-concerns-mcgregor-residents | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/late-night-space-x-testing-concerns-mcgregor-residents |
'All are welcome' 4-year-old spreads message of inclusion
The 5 Hills Pageant in Copperas Cove is known for its expansive community service across Central Texas. Its 2021 Miniature Five Hills is tackling a topic much bigger than herself.
When your father was Fort Hood's Soldier of the Year and your mother is a teacher, you have some pretty big shoes to fill. One 4-year-old is doing just that spreading a message of the importance of inclusion throughout her community, with the help of her mother of course.
Haelyn's mother Hana Hendrix said, "I think it is a generational curse that has been passed down a long time. You know racism and being afraid to accept different cultures or thinking that one is better than another."
Understanding the complexities surrounding cultural diversity is a lot for anyone, let alone a 4-year-old. However, Dr. Elizabeth Casey, professor of curriculum and instruction at A&M Central Texas said these conversations are important to have with young kids.
"I think we're always learning from each other. So, I think this is a great topic for it's a huge topic for a little four-year-old to take on, but it's a great topic," said Casey. "As the child grows up if they have that foundation of diversity and equity, and you know, we're all part of this global society, I think that just grows as the child grows, and each year as they move through adolescence and into adulthood, I think it can help them to be a more compassionate and ... understanding person if they're if they're exposed to differences early on."
Hana said while it's a complex topic, it's about introducing the concept on a level kiddos can understand.
"It has the pictures and a lot of kids their age can't read but they understand the pictures. And they can see one boy is in a wheelchair the other one has a turban on one does not have hair," said Hana.
Haelyn uses the book 'All are Welcome' by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman to get her message across.
Hana said Healyn has tons of books to give away and plans to keep working on her cultural diversity platform. | 2022-02-12T02:34:11Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/all-are-welcome-4-year-old-spreads-message-of-inclusion | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/all-are-welcome-4-year-old-spreads-message-of-inclusion |
ANDERSON, Texas — She was the comforter and voice of a family trying to cope with the horror of searching for their lost child. Now, she’s using her talents of bravery and people skills to lead other police officers.
In last year’s four-day search for then-missing child Christopher Ramirez, Grimes County Sheriff’s deputy, Sgt. Martha Smith was considered the emotional stronghold of the case, for the family and many others involved.
Last Friday, Sgt. Smith was promoted to lieutenant and is taking on a new role leading the department’s patrol division.
“She is someone who has a very big heart for being a public servant," said Grimes County Sheriff Don Sowell. "... She has a really natural way of just being a people person, too.”
Smith has been a member of the sheriff’s office for nearly 20 years and has found great joy in working with children as a school resource officer. Her passion, she said, is to serve people, and to support them through good communication.
“I want to bring changes that will motivate the deputies we have here and invest in the deputies that we have here," Smith explained. "... I’d like to help them get to where they want to be.”
Smith has maintained a special relationship with Ramirez’s family, whom she supported and translated for through the investigation last year. Spending time with Ramirez's mother Araceli across those four days changed who Smith is as a police officer, and as a person.
“My faith was slowly slipping away," Smith recalled. "And speaking to Araceli, she never gave up hope, and she never lost faith. She restored that you should keep that faith going and continuing.”
Smith shared that growing up in Navasota with Spanish-speaking parents, she knew since she was young that she wanted to be a police officer so that she could be the voice connecting the Hispanic community to law enforcement. Now, she has been able to realize her dream – and to form a lifelong relationship with the Ramirez family.
“Christopher has built a relationship with my husband," she noted. "So, Christopher’s biological father is in Mexico, and Araceli was telling me that she feels Christopher has found a bond with my husband.”
Smith has filled the leadership role left vacant by Capt. Ryan Rutledge, who just retired from the Sheriff's Office in order to take on the role as police chief of Todd Mission, beginning March 1. | 2022-02-12T04:09:24Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/grimes-county-deputy-who-befriended-aided-missing-boys-family-now-promoted-to-leadership-role | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/grimes-county-deputy-who-befriended-aided-missing-boys-family-now-promoted-to-leadership-role |
TODD MISSION, Texas — After the tragic passing of former police chief John Martinez Jr. in January of 2018, the town of Todd Mission has operated with an interim chief.
Starting March 1, retiring Grimes County Sheriff’s Captain Ryan Rutledge will take over the police chief role, ensuring the safety of the town and the Texas Renaissance Festival.
“Well first thing we’re going to do is go in there and build the division – the department, basically, from the ground up," said Rutledge. "It’s been kind of sitting there stagnant for a little while, and it looks like everybody’s ready to get it going as a full-fledged police department.”
The Grimes County Sheriff’s Office threw Rutledge a retirement party on Friday, celebrating 20 years of service, and wishing him well on his endeavor. | 2022-02-12T04:09:36Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/retiring-grimes-county-deputy-to-be-sworn-in-as-new-todd-mission-police-chief | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/retiring-grimes-county-deputy-to-be-sworn-in-as-new-todd-mission-police-chief |
The Travis County Sheriff's Office is searching for Luis Montes of Pflugerville, who is wanted for the murder of Camerina Trujilo Perez.
"A warrant has been issued for Luis Angel Montes for the murder of Camerina Trujillo Perez," said the sheriff's office. "Bail is set at $1 million."
The sheriff's office said the Clear Alert issued on Wednesday, Jan. 26, has expired but both individuals have not been located. Perez, 38, and Montes, 35 were last seen on Monday, Jan. 24.
“Evidence strongly indicates that Camerina Perez did not willingly leave her family, job and life behind. We need to find her and Luis Montes as quickly as possible.” - Sergeant Sylvia Leal.
Perez’s vehicle was seen traveling north through Temple on Thursday, Jan. 27, according to the sheriff's office.
"As they [detectives] pursued leads and gathered evidence, a disturbing chain of events began to emerge," said the sheriff's office. "Evidence indicates that in the early morning hours of January 25, 2022, Camerina was killed by Luis."
The vehicle is a blue 2014 Chevrolet Sonic with Texas license plate number FZH-0400. Detectives are also searching for a second vehicle, a black 2014 Toyota Tundra with Texas license plate number CVH-2575, which is believed to be involved in the couple's disapearance.
“We need to hear from friends of Camerina and Luis, especially those who have seen or had contact with them on or since January 24th," said Sheriff Sally Hernandez. "We want to find answers for their families and we believe with the help of the public, we can get those answers." | 2022-02-12T04:09:49Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/travis-county-authorities-searching-for-missing-texas-couple | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/travis-county-authorities-searching-for-missing-texas-couple |
Ukrainians attend a rally in central Kyiv, Ukraine, Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, during a protest against the potential escalation of the tension between Russia and Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden are to hold a high-stakes telephone call on Saturday as tensions over a possible imminent invasion of Ukraine escalated sharply and the U.S. announced plans to evacuate its embassy in the Ukrainian capital. | 2022-02-12T19:59:51Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/national/biden-warns-putin-of-severe-costs-of-ukraine-invasion | https://www.kxxv.com/news/national/biden-warns-putin-of-severe-costs-of-ukraine-invasion |
Police: Injury by man who severed arm was self-inflicted
LEWISTON, Maine (AP) — A man discovered stumbling downtown with a severed arm is believed to have inflicted the injury himself, police said.
The victim was injured with a band saw used to cut meat, but didn’t work at the market where the saw was located, police said.
“At this point, after speaking with numerous witnesses and reviewing hours of both store and neighboring footage, it appears the incident was self-inflicted,” police said in a statement this week.
Public works crews who were in the area saved the man’s life by applying a tourniquet while waiting for first responders to arrive, police said.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration was alerted but ended its investigation because the victim didn’t work for the market where the saw was located. | 2022-02-12T20:00:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/police-injury-by-man-who-severed-arm-was-self-inflicted | https://www.kxxv.com/news/police-injury-by-man-who-severed-arm-was-self-inflicted |
Police: Cy-Fair ISD students accused of attacking high school coach
CYPRESS, Texas — Several middle school students are being accused of assaulting a baseball coach, said officials.
As first reported by KHOU 11, video circulating online appears to display an adult being assaulted by at least four attackers, with others recording in the background.
The attackers have since been identified as students at Aragon Middle School.
Principal Jose Martinez has condemned the attack, calling the incident "extremely unacceptable."
In a letter to Cy-Fair ISD families, he noted that the students have been taken into custody and will face disciplinary action as the investigation continues.
The letter also addressed social media threats posted by some of the students and some of their friends, stating the school will, "continue to work diligently for a safe environment for all students and staff."
Cy-Fair ISD Superintendent Mark Henry has also released the following statement:
Cy-Fair ISD Superintendent Mark Henry | 2022-02-12T21:46:34Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/police-cy-fair-isd-students-accused-of-attacking-high-school-coach | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/police-cy-fair-isd-students-accused-of-attacking-high-school-coach |
The Bismarck Tribune reported Thursday that 40-year-old Travis Skar was charged Tuesday with alleging touching a woman inappropriately during a hot tub party in the summer of 2020. Court documents didn’t list an attorney for him.
He faces up to a year in jail and a $3,000 fine if he’s convicted. His employment status isn’t clear. A list of highway patrol officers the Tribune obtained from the North Dakota Peace Officer Standards and Training Board on Jan. 18 didn’t list him.
Johnson was fired from the patrol in November 2021. He was commander of the agency’s southwest region at the time. His attorney has said the charges are an act of revenge by someone with a vendetta against him.
Johnson and Skar are listed as witnesses in each other’s cases. | 2022-02-12T23:36:00Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/another-highway-patrol-officer-charged-in-hot-tub-party | https://www.kxxv.com/news/another-highway-patrol-officer-charged-in-hot-tub-party |
(Photo Provided by FBI via AP)
This image included in an FBI affidavit, shows church arson suspect Dushko Vulchev, of Houlton, Maine, allegedly stealing a tire from a car in Springfield, Mass., in December of 2020. Vulchev was indicted by a federal grand jury on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, on four counts of damaging religious property "because of the race, color, and ethnic characteristics" of those associated with the church. Vulchev has been charged with setting fire to a Massachusetts church with a predominantly Black congregation.
An email-seeking comment was left with his federal public defender. | 2022-02-12T23:36:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/maine-man-indicted-in-burning-of-black-church | https://www.kxxv.com/news/maine-man-indicted-in-burning-of-black-church |
Sun Making a Return
CENTRAL TEXAS — After some showers and a few flurries in parts of Central Texas today, we're seeing the sun come back out this evening. Skies will remain clear overnight, and that will give way to a very sunny day tomorrow. The cold temperatures of today will be gone as well. Highs tomorrow should be in the mid-60s. Temperatures around the start of Super Bowl parties will probably be in the low-60s.
Valentine's Day will be just as sunny and getting warmer. Highs that day will be in the upper-60s. As the warming trend continues, 70s will be back for Tuesday and Wednesday. We're watching the potential for thunderstorms Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. It may be one of those setups that produces a few strong storms as well, but a lot can change between now and then. Going into the end of next week, highs will slide into the 50s with a mix of sun and clouds. | 2022-02-13T01:20:49Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/sun-making-a-return | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/sun-making-a-return |
Silver Alert issued for missing Austin man
Maurice Diggs (Texas Department of Public Safety)
AUSTIN, Texas — A Silver Alert has been issued for 76-year-old Maurice Diggs of Austin.
Diggs was last seen at 1:45 p.m. Wednesday at the 12800 Block of North Lamar Blvd in Austin.
He is described as having a bald head and brown eyes, and weighing about 190 pounds, according to Austin police.
The missing elderly is believed to be wearing a t-shirt and khaki pants. | 2022-02-13T02:55:14Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/silver-alert-issued-for-missing-austin-man | https://www.kxxv.com/news/silver-alert-issued-for-missing-austin-man |
Warm and Mild Sunday
CENTRAL TEXAS — Happy Sunday! We are starting off chilly but reaching the mid 60s this afternoon with plenty of sunshine, perfect weather to enjoy the Super Bowl this evening.
Valentine's Day will be just as LOVE-ly. Sunny conditions and warm conditions with highs in the upper 60s. We will continue with this warming trend, potentially reaching the low 70s Tuesday and Wednesday. We're watching the potential for thunderstorms Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. It may be one of those setups that produces a few strong storms as well, but a lot can change between now and then. Going into the end of next week, highs will slide into the 50s with a mix of sun and clouds. | 2022-02-13T15:51:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-mild-sunday | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-mild-sunday |
HARKER HEIGHTS, Texas — Two men have been arrested in connection to a fatal shooting on Jan. 17, police said.
John Ricardo Scott Jr, 20, and Jamon Alexander Terry, 19, are both facing murder charges, according to the Harker Height's Police Department.
Officers were dispatched around 2:45 p.m. to the intersection of access road Central Texas Expressway and Indian Trail.
Harker Heights police say Ty Andre Gentle, 19, of Copperas Cove, was ambushed and killed at the light of the major intersection.
He died as a result of injuries sustained when he was shot multiple times.
Scott is currently being held at the Wharton County Jail awaiting transport to the Bell County Jail.
Terry is currently in the Bell County Jail.
Both suspects are being held on $1 million bond. | 2022-02-13T21:24:08Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/police-two-men-arrested-after-harker-heights-intersection-ambush | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/police-two-men-arrested-after-harker-heights-intersection-ambush |
FILE — In this March 17, 2017, file photo, Ed Staley, left, and Tali Bruce, right, attend a rally concerning the DUI threshold at the Utah State Capitol in Salt Lake City. Car crashes and traffic deaths decreased in Utah the after the state enacted the strictest drunken driving laws in the nation. A study published, Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests Utah's roads became safer after the state lowered the drunken-driving threshold to .05% blood-alcohol content. | 2022-02-13T21:24:26Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/study-fewer-crashes-after-utah-sets-strictest-dui-law-in-us | https://www.kxxv.com/news/study-fewer-crashes-after-utah-sets-strictest-dui-law-in-us |
'Today is about the wings': Local restaurant overcomes setbacks for Big Game
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — While businesses are reporting setbacks from the supply chain, one local restaurant is capitalizing on 'foot traffic' from the Big Game.
Cory Davis, franchisee owner of Walk-On's, has been planning for one of America's biggest celebrations and all the "traditional" meals fans expect.
”Today is about the wings," said Davis.
"Which is perfect for a big game, so we expect to sell a lot of those items today,”
The local sports bar shared they've been stocking up on all the fan-favorite items, ensuring they would not run out on customers.
”It’s been challenging, but we’re still going to be able to get through it." said Davis.
"Obviously prices are up because of the shortages, so we had to alter a couple of things on our menu, but other than that, our whole menu is 100 percent still rock and rolling,”
Even with the change in prices, local customers said it really has not placed a damper on their spirits.
”No, I definitely haven't been worried about that," said Bryce MacDonald, a Walk-On's customer.
"I'm just more focused on the drinks, and the friends, and the food,”
“It’s all that you can do," said Erica Hinson, Walk-On's customer.
"I mean you can’t get upset, it’s truly the world that we live in, and everyone should be so thankful to get out and be among our friends and family,”
Meanwhile, some are simply excited to see their top choices return to the menu today.
”They actually told me today that they have waffle fries back," said Hinson.
"They haven't been for a long time because of the supply chain,
There is a lot of places that we go that don’t have what we’re there for but it is what it is,"
The USDA and FDA say they’re closely monitoring the food supply chain as they frequently communicate with food manufacturers and grocery stores. | 2022-02-14T02:30:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/today-is-about-the-wings-local-restaurant-overcomes-setbacks-for-big-game | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/today-is-about-the-wings-local-restaurant-overcomes-setbacks-for-big-game |
(AP Photo/Asim Tanvee, File)
FILE - Police officers present Waseem Azeem, the brother of slain social media star Qandeel Baloch, to the media following his arrest, at a police station in Multan, Pakistan, July 17, 2016. Azeem who was sentenced to life in prison in 2019 for strangling his sister, Qandeel Baloch, was acquitted of murder Monday, Feb. 14, 2022, after his parents pardoned him under Islamic law, an attorney for the man's family said. | 2022-02-14T17:39:59Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/pakistani-court-acquits-models-killer-on-parents-pardon | https://www.kxxv.com/news/pakistani-court-acquits-models-killer-on-parents-pardon |
AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is suing Facebook’s parent company, Meta Platforms Inc., saying the technology conglomerate infringed on the state’s privacy protections by using facial recognition technology on its users without their consent.
"Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sues Facebook’s parent company over use of facial recognition tech" was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans — and engages with them — about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues. | 2022-02-14T20:14:20Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/texas-attorney-general-ken-paxton-sues-facebooks-parent-company-over-use-of-facial-recognition-tech | https://www.kxxv.com/news/texas-attorney-general-ken-paxton-sues-facebooks-parent-company-over-use-of-facial-recognition-tech |
Killeen ISD teacher, new mother dies following battle with COVID-19
Fundraiser for James Chandler by Kait Osborne-Bias _ Fighting chance for Alex and Baby Beau
A community is mourning the loss of a new mother and Killeen ISD teacher.
Killeen ISD announced that beloved fifth-grade teacher Alexandra Chandler died on Sunday, Feb. 13. The "dedicated teacher, friend, and mentor" had given birth to her son, Beau, just over a month ago on Sunday, Jan. 9, after being diagnosed with COVID-19 when went in for labor, according to a GoFundMe page.
"The students, faculty, and families of Montague Village Elementary are mourning the loss of Mrs. Alexandra Chandler, a beloved fifth-grade teacher," said Killeen ISD in the announcement of her death. "Mrs. Chandler passed away on Sunday and will be greatly missed."
The GoFundMe was set up in support of Alexandra's family, to help with "food, bills, future medical expenses, and any other financial hardships they may encounter," while she fought COVID-19 in the ICU.
"After giving birth to her baby boy, Alex spent a few nights in the hospital and was then sent home on the 12th," said the fundraiser page. "This is where her illness took a turn for the worse and progressed rapidly as she began to experience shortness of breath on Thursday the 13th."
Chandler was diagnosed with both COVID and pneumonia and later required additional medical support when both of her lungs collapsed, said the GoFundMe.
"Alex was diagnosed with COVID-19 when she went in for labor despite being fully vaccinated," said the GoFundMe page. "In fact, she remained hyper-vigilant all throughout her pregnancy in order to not contract the virus."
Killeen ISD said it is offering guidance and counseling support services to students and staff as the community mourns Chandler's loss.
"We send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to her family during this difficult time," said Killeen ISD. "Funeral arrangements are pending." | 2022-02-14T22:32:50Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/killeen-isd-teacher-new-mother-dies-following-battle-with-covid-19 | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/killeen-isd-teacher-new-mother-dies-following-battle-with-covid-19 |
WACO, Texas — You're paying more money these days.
Inflation is up 7.5 percent and it's making it difficult for people across the U.S.
"Yeah, I was hoping for a turnaround," said Glen Powell.
Glen and his wife own Christal own Gustine City Cafe.
They opened the cafe in January of 2020, right before the pandemic, in the small town of Gustine.
"Hanging in there so we can be there for the community because they stood behind me," said Powell.
They were not able to receive help from the COVID-19 stimulus payments because they started in 2020.
Under this setback, it's been a struggle since day one.
With inflation, times are becoming more and more difficult.
"We live week to week," said Powell.
Families are paying more for housing and fuel costs, with even fewer funds in some cases to spend at the grocery store, where prices are 6.3 percent higher than they were a year ago, according to the latest inflation data.
Who's at fault?
"I blame Biden," said Powell.
However, is it fair to blame the Biden administration?
"Outside forecasters continue to project that inflationary inflation is expected to decrease and moderate over the course of this year," said Jennifer Psaki, White House press secretary.
White House press secretary Jen Psaki speaks during a press briefing at the White House, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Inflation has risen around the world, but the U.S. has seen one of the biggest increases.
46 nations have shown that during the third quarter of 2021, the inflation rate was higher in 39 nations than in the pre-pandemic third quarter of 2019.
Pew research shows that countries big and small, conservative and progressive, are grappling with surging consumer prices, all while trying to recover from the pandemic.
But the U.S. has one of the highest rates, leaving more Americans to pay with more cash.
Why are we paying more?
We have seen disruptions in global supply chains amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Stores have struggled to keep some items on shelves.
FILE - Consumers shop at a grocery store in Niles, Ill., Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021. A new poll from the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy and The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that although women generally expect to do more in their household, Americans without children are still more optimistic that they would share responsibilities equally with a partner compared to what parents report actually happens.
Today’s prices are being measured against prices during last year’s COVID-19-shutdowns, and strong customer demands after local businesses began opening for business.
Now, a recent survey by Fidelity’s eMoney Advisor found that the high cost of gas prices is the number one concern for Americans.
The second is being able to pay bills and inflation overall.
For those who live in rural areas, the data shows them to have less money compared to those in urban areas.
Inflation hurts rural households and people of color.
Rural households are paying an average of 5.2 percent more of their post-tax income because of inflation, compared to 3.5% of metropolitan households.
Inflation has hurt lower-income families, families of color, and rural households more than other demographics, according to a Bank of America research report.
African American, Hispanic, and Latino households spent 7.1 percent of their post-tax income on energy, compared to 5.4 percent spent by other demographics.
12.5 percent of their income was spent on food, compared to 11.1 percent for everyone else.
This includes 4 percent for African American, Hispanic, and Latino groups, compared to 2.9 percent for everyone else.
Rural America has been feeling the affects of workers leaving there jobs. Many business owners are working around the clock to keep things open.
It's a similar story for rural versus urban populations.
These groups have less income, and are therefore more "exposed" to higher inflation, Bank of America said.
Is there an end in sight?
Biden says inflation will ease by the end of the year.
In what seems like a long time from now. President Joe Biden says that Inflation should ease up by the end of the year.
In the meantime, there are people like the Powells that are struggling to make it. Working 7 days a week, with rarely a day off. | 2022-02-14T22:32:51Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-rural-areas-and-minorities-hit-hardest-by-inflation | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-rural-areas-and-minorities-hit-hardest-by-inflation |
The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office said deputies attempted to make the traffic stop around 9 a.m. on Monday near East State Highway 21 and Silver Hill. The driver refused to follow a traffic control device, and when deputies attempted to make the stop they continued on driving.
"The individual then abandoned the vehicle 300 yards east of Silver Hill, and fled on foot into the woods," said the sheriff's office. "Deputies then began setting up a perimeter and search effort for the suspect. After an initial search of the area was completed, Deputies were unable to locate the suspect."
Around 3:30 p.m. a citizen called in stating they saw a person matching the description of the suspect laying around in the woods.
"Deputies arrived in the area and the suspect again fled on foot onto Silver Hill," said the sheriff's office. "Deputies caught up with the suspect and took him into custody."
The suspect is now booked and charged with possession of Marijuana, evading on foot, evading in a vehicle, and criminal trespass. | 2022-02-15T00:41:49Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/brazos-county-authorities-apprehend-suspect-who-fled-from-traffic-stop | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/brazos-county-authorities-apprehend-suspect-who-fled-from-traffic-stop |
Woodway FD
The fire departments responded to an early morning fire that engulfed the majority of the business.
"While there were no injuries and firefighters were able to contain the blaze before it had a chance to spread to other structures, a significant amount of damage was still done," said the Woodway Public Safety Department. "Please keep Midway Automotive's employees in your thoughts." | 2022-02-15T00:42:13Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/woodway-waco-firefighters-respond-to-midway-automotive-fire | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/woodway-waco-firefighters-respond-to-midway-automotive-fire |
Saving Moe: Aggie veteran desperate to pay for service dog's chemo and amputation
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Like a whirlwind, a spunky young Labrador changed the life of a young Aggie veteran struggling with PTSD.
Now, that veteran is determined to return the favor, to save his companion from the clutches of cancer ... at least giving him the chance to live a couple more years.
Carson Wehmeyer, a U.S. Navy veteran, worked hard to succeed as a Texas A&M student. Last year, he decided to take a break from his studies to care for his mental health, attending the Warrior’s Heart program for post-traumatic stress treatment.
It was at this program that Wehmeyer met Moe, a two-year-old black Labrador. Man and dog bonded quickly, sharing lives of hardship.
"Moe's previous owner became part of the 22 veterans who kill themselves per day," explained Wehmeyer. "His mom had donated him and another dog to the Warriors Heart program.”
Wehmeyer was able to obtain Moe as his own service dog, thanks to donations from the public. Wehmeyer has long battled post-traumatic stress from childhood trauma, and from his time serving as a medic in a military hospital. Moe has been there to soothe the young man during nightmares and bouts of anxiety.
And with Moe’s help, Wehmeyer is proudly seven months sober from alcohol addiction.
But now, Moe’s life is in grave danger. Last week, the dog was diagnosed with deadly bone cancer. He has little time left to live.
"Without treatment, it’s two to three months," Wehmeyer said. "With amputation, it's six to eight months. With amputation and chemo, he has a year-and-a-half, to two years.”
Unable to afford Moe’s veterinary care in Wehmeyer’s current home near San Antonio, Monday morning the veteran made a four-hour drive to the emergency room of Texas A&M’s small animal hospital.
Texas A&M does offer payment plans for pet owners and can offer discounted treatment in some specific situations, thanks to donations made to the hospital.
Still, Wehmeyer fears he won’t be able to pay to save Moe’s life.
"He’s been working so hard and putting so much work into himself," shared Anna Williford, a longtime friend of Wehmeyer. "And, I know Moe has been a big part of that. I would hate to see him maybe go backwards a few steps.”
Wehmeyer has launched a GoFundMe campaign for Moe’s medical bills, with a current goal of $10,000. He and his friends hope to spread the word and get treatment for the young Labrador retriever.
"I hate that I have to ask for help because a majority of my life I handle things on my own," Wehmeyer admitted. "... But now I have no options... and Moe legitimately saves my life every single day.”
Donations can be made at the following link:
Fundraiser by Carson Wehmeyer: Moes fight with cancer (gofundme.com) | 2022-02-15T02:45:51Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/saving-moe-aggie-veteran-desperate-to-pay-for-service-dogs-chemo-and-amputation | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/saving-moe-aggie-veteran-desperate-to-pay-for-service-dogs-chemo-and-amputation |
It's already tough as it is to obtain a doctorate degree. The U.S. Census Bureau says only 1.2 percent of the U.S. population has one.
Imagine earning one and also overcoming homelessness. One couple here in Central Texas defied all odds by doing just that.
The Edwards family have been married for 20 years, they were also homeless for a few months, after both being laid off from the same company. They said, during their time spent homeless, they were constantly applying to jobs and they'd use homeless shelters as a place to freshen up before countless interviews.
Mr. Edward landed a job at an IT firm and Dr. Edwards received a scholarship to pursue her doctorate degree in metaphysical science at the Institute of Metaphysical Humanistic Science.
Dr. Edward said, “To be Dr. Edward … it is a recognition of a life journey and it’s not something I wouldn’t want to do without him.”
She added, “…the thing was, we went from making six figures to homeless.”
Though the Edward family once lost their home after losing their jobs, they said they found a home in each other.
Dr. Edwards said, “Late at night when I was sleeping on the steps of that church the only thing, All I had was my blanket and my husband.”
They've been together through thick and thin. Dr. Edward said, "Through richer or poorer sickness and health and all this other stuff…well through richer or poor …homeless is poor .. and I promised I’d be here."
Today they celebrate together as Serenity Edward earned her Ph.D. | 2022-02-15T02:46:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/from-homeless-to-doctorate-degree-locked-in-love-for-eternity | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/from-homeless-to-doctorate-degree-locked-in-love-for-eternity |
Killeen Police Chief gives exclusive update on December shooting at Killeen mall
KILLEEN, TX — In December of 2021 holiday shopping was in full swing at the Killeen mall and then gunfire echoed through the stores.
Shoppers and mall employees ran for their lives.
Killeen police immediately responded reports of an active shooter and Killeen Police Chief Charles rushed to the scene.
”I was thinking, active shooter with multiple victims. So, I knew a certain protocol had to happen. I left, I was getting updates, it was only one victim, I thought that was odd.” said Charles Kimble, Chief of Police for Killeen Police Department.
Police quickly realized that this was notanother mass shooting event but rather, a targeted attack.
”It wasn’t against the citizens of Killeen, it wasn’t against the mall, it wasn't against a group of people, it wasn’t a random attack. This was one person that had an issue with another person who happened to work at the mall,” said Kimble.
It was a targeted attack with only one victim that led one witness who might know who pulled the trigger.
”So, we had to talk to our victim. At this point, the victim has helped us the best he could and he doesn’t know who may have wanted to hurt him.” said Kimble.
Left with only surveillance footage to go by, KPD hit another roadblock trying to identify the shooter.
”The suspect was literally covered from head to toe. It was hard to even find out a person's race or skin complexion from the photographs.” said Kimble.
KPD thought they finally caught a break when they zero on a possible suspect but, it was a break in the case that was short lived.
”We had a working lead. We thought we had a subject of interest but, that person that we thought had been involved has since been cleared as a person of interest.” said Kimble.
KPD doesn't have another suspect in their at this time but Chief Kimble said, the case has not gone cold.
”We have many investigative techniques. We thought we had a strong on but, we’re still working on it.” said Kimble.
Kimble says, without more cooperation, they’ll have to find other ways to solve the case.
Anyone with information that can lead to the identity or apprehension of the shooter can contact reach out to the Killeen Police Department or contact Bell County Crime Stoppers. | 2022-02-15T06:34:31Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/kpd-chief-gives-exclusive-update-on-december-shooting-at-killeen-mall | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/kpd-chief-gives-exclusive-update-on-december-shooting-at-killeen-mall |
Brazos County authorities searching for 19-year-old inmate who escaped from Bryan hospital
Brazos County authorities are searching for an inmate who escaped from custody while at a hospital in Bryan.
Brazos County Crime Stoppers said around 8:45 p.m. on Monday, 19-year-old Cody Rowley was on the second floor of a hospital when he escaped through a window.
"Due to construction, scaffoldings were placed next to unsecured windows around the hospital, and the Deputy was unaware of the windows being unsecured," said Crime Stoppers.
Following his escape the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office began searching for Rowley, calling in canines, drones, and helicopters to assist. At this time Rowley is still at-large. He is described as 5'9" with brown hair and brown eyes, according to Crime Stoppers.
"Cody Rowley was being held at the Brazos County Detention Center for misdemeanor crimes, and at this time we have no reason to believe the public is in danger," said the agency.
However, authorities ask that if anyone does spot him, they do not approach and call 911 or the non-emergency dispatch number at (979) 361-3888. | 2022-02-16T01:12:41Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/brazos-county-authorities-searching-for-19-year-old-inmate-who-escaped-from-bryan-hospital | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/brazos-county-authorities-searching-for-19-year-old-inmate-who-escaped-from-bryan-hospital |
Arctic blast, one year later... continuing to pick up the pieces
WACO, TX — This time last year we were right in the middle of a historic weather event. Based on a survey by the University of Houston, nearly 69 percent of Texans lost power at some point during the storm. The federal reserve bank of Dallas said the overall cost was between 80 and 130 billion dollars.
Inside the walls of the St. Jerome Catholic Church, there's a feeling of peace. Bright lights reflect off the ivory walls. Carl London with the church said a year ago, this peace was replaced with a feeling of chaos.
"Everything in the sanctuary was lost, the carpet, the wood, the pews were so watered up they had to be destroyed," London said.
The loss of power state-wide caused pipes to burst and flooded the house of worship. London and the rest of his congregation fighting to keep the faith.
"There's still that one thing that did we do everything that we needed to," London said.
As the ice melted away, it revealed the devastation.
"The initial damage was around 600 thousand dollars," London said.
The feeling of not knowing, like the water through the wall, seeped back in early February. Falling temperatures and fears over another grid failure leave London with a choice.
Ryan Dirker with McLennan County Emergency Management said, after a year of rebuilding, the city has taken steps.
"Several million dollars have been allocated for all sorts of projects to winterize critical equipment to make sure there are generators are water facilities," Dirker said. "I'm confident in saying it can't be 100 percent prevented, but we will do everything we can to make sure people won't suffer like that ever again." | 2022-02-16T02:52:45Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/arctic-blast-one-year-later-continuing-to-pick-up-the-pieces | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/arctic-blast-one-year-later-continuing-to-pick-up-the-pieces |
Corsicana PD
The Corsicana Police Department is searching for a missing 13-year-old who was last seen on Monday.
Police said Justin Hayden was last seen leaving his residence on Park Row Boulevard in Corsicana. He was wearing a black sweatshirt, black pants, and black and white Nike shoes.
Anyone with information can call the police department at (903) 654-4902. | 2022-02-16T02:52:51Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/corsicana-police-searching-for-13-year-old-missing-since-monday | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/corsicana-police-searching-for-13-year-old-missing-since-monday |
Former member of Texas A&M Christian frat sentenced for sexual assault
A former member of the Brothers Under Christ Fraternity at Texas A&M University has been sentenced to 7 years in prison for sexual assault.
Jacob Pape was expelled after three women reported their sexual assault to authorities and to Texas A&M. The Brazos County District Attorney's office said Pape was on weekend leave from working a Christian camp when he sexually assaulted 'Doe #1.'
"In the spring of 2018, Breakaway Ministries did a sermon on sexual assault," said the DA. "At the end of the sermon, the minister encouraged victims of sexual violence to reach out and tell someone. After seeing the sermon, Jane Doe #1 reached out to a roommate of the Defendant’s to report her sexual assault."
The jury that convicted Pape of the offense heard that he assaulted two more women, giving them each a glass of wine after taking them to his home. He then sexually assaulted them after they were unconscious or extremely intoxicated, according to the district attorney's office.
Pape's roommates and fellow members of Brothers Under Christ became suspicious of his behavior and confronted him after they heard of a second woman's allegations, according to the Brazos County district attorney's office.
"The Defendant admitted to continuing to have sex with Jane Doe #2 while she was unconscious," said the Brazos County DA.
During the punishment phase, the jury heard from 'Doe #3.'
“The jury’s verdict is a monumental step forward in protecting women in this community from sexual violence," said the Brazos County DA. | 2022-02-16T04:29:15Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/former-member-of-texas-a-m-christian-frat-sentenced-for-sexual-assault | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/former-member-of-texas-a-m-christian-frat-sentenced-for-sexual-assault |
New clues emerge in the mystery of human skull found in abandoned Texas house
CAMERON, Texas — An update has emerged in the case of the mystery skull found in an abandoned Cameron residence. Researchers believe they may know more about the skull’s origin, and what kind of person the bones belonged to.
A human skull, located last month by Milam County law enforcement, was recently sent in for forensic analysis at Texas State University’s Forensic Anthropology Center.
Though investigators and forensic scientists still haven’t confirmed whether the deceased individual met with foul play, the evidence seems to better indicate the skull may have been a medical specimen. The deceased was determined to be an adult Asian male.
“I think everybody’s leaning towards it being something for medical students," said Milam County Sheriff Mike Clore. "[The researchers] said that between 1985 and 2008, Asia was one of the only places where they were selling full skeletons to people.”
The skull is now being sent to Arizona State University for DNA testing. Sheriff Clore expressed that he isn’t sure how the department will proceed, even if the deceased is determined to be a medical specimen. He may consider reaching out to an entity with international reach and resources, like the FBI, to see if the skull ought to be returned to a foreign country of origin.
Investigators with Milam County are still trying to find out more information on the last person who lived in the abandoned house where the skull was discovered last month. Anyone with information on this case can contact the Milam County Sheriff's Office at 254-697-7033. | 2022-02-16T04:29:21Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/new-clues-emerge-in-mystery-of-human-skull-found-in-cameron | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/new-clues-emerge-in-mystery-of-human-skull-found-in-cameron |
It's random act of kindness week at Texas A&M University-Central Texas and members of the HR Department and its organizers say it's not for students alone but also extended to the Bell County community.
Jeremy Berry with the Counseling and Psychology department said, “The event is not just about students, it's about bringing people in the community together that aren’t students, just to engage with some of the students and resources we have available- for example, we have a community counseling clinic that serves the community.”
Most of those mental health services in their counseling clinic are free and/or at a discounted rate for the public, Berry said.
Debbie Morrison, HR Generalist shared, “We are so excited to bring random act of kindness here at Texas A&M University-Central Texas, we got several events planned, we got kindness cards located in all of our buildings where employees can pick them up and they can give it to a stranger… give it to your coffee barista, just to make them smile today.”
The need for mental health help is at an all-time high on college campuses in Central Texas, given the pandemic, so the hope is this week's events can lift some spirits.
Morrison added, “We just wanted to bring kindness into our campus community, there’s a lot of bullying in schools, people working from home.”
Random act of kindness week will end on Friday, then the HR Department at Texas A&M Central Texas is organizing kindness walks and other surprise acts of kindness on their campus this week. The public is more than welcome to stop by and join the fun. | 2022-02-16T06:09:19Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/random-act-of-kindness-week-at-texas-a-m-central-texas | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/random-act-of-kindness-week-at-texas-a-m-central-texas |
Elderly women dies on scenic hiking trail, shutoff years ago
State police were called to a site near the Glen Onoko Falls in Carbon County around 10:30 a.m. Sunday. They were met there by several emergency responders who had carried the 72-year-old woman down the mountain from near the first of three waterfalls at the site, a trip official said was made over “treacherous, steep, ice-covered terrain.” | 2022-02-16T15:37:54Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/elderly-women-dies-on-scenic-hiking-trail-shutoff-years-ago | https://www.kxxv.com/news/elderly-women-dies-on-scenic-hiking-trail-shutoff-years-ago |
FILE - A Mekong River dolphin appears on the Mekong River at Kampi village, Kratie province, northeast of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, March 17, 2009. The last surviving freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin on a stretch of the Mekong River in northeastern Cambodia has died, wildlife officials said Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, blaming the aquatic mammal's demise on waters made shallow by upstream dams and climate change. | 2022-02-16T15:38:00Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/last-known-freshwater-dolphin-in-northeastern-cambodia-dies | https://www.kxxv.com/news/last-known-freshwater-dolphin-in-northeastern-cambodia-dies |
Two men on Texas' 10 most wanted sex offenders list arrested
<i>(Left to right: Joe Hernandez, Phillip Ward)</i>
AUSTIN, Texas — Two of Texas' 10 most wanted sex offenders, Joe Louis Hernandez and Phillip Mark Ward, have both been arrested.
Hernandez turned himself in at the Galveston Police Department on Feb. 10.
He had been wanted since January 2021, after Galveston police issued a warrant for failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements.
In 1998, Hernandez was convicted of three counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child for incidents involving girls ages 2 and 7.
He was sentenced to eight years in a TDCJ prison.
In 2007, Hernandez was sentenced to an additional two years after being convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm.
In 2010, he was convicted of failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements and was given three years in prison.
Members of the U.S. Marshals North Texas Fugitive Task Force and Forth Worth police arrested Ward on Feb. 8. at a local shelter.
He had been wanted since March 2021 on a warrant for a parole violation.
The Fort Worth Police Department also issued him a warrant for failing to register as a sex offender.
In 1992, Ward was convicted of two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child following incidents involving an 8-year-old girl and a 9-year-old boy.
He was sentenced to 75 years in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) prison. He was released on parole in February 2017. | 2022-02-16T18:45:42Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/two-men-on-texass-10-most-wanted-sex-offenders-list-arrested | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/two-men-on-texass-10-most-wanted-sex-offenders-list-arrested |
Gov. Abbott garners support from state, national rifle associations during Waco campaign stop
WACO, Texas — Receiving the endorsement of the National Rifle Association and the Texas State Rifle Association, Gov. Greg Abbott stumped Wednesday in Waco.
Announcing support for Abbott, who is seeking a third term, during the gubernatorial campaign stop were Charles Cotton, president of the National Rifle Association, and Darryl Valdez, president of the Texas State Rifle Association.
In the March 1 primary, Abbott is squaring off against seven Republican hopefuls. | 2022-02-16T18:45:48Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/gov-abbott-garners-support-from-state-national-rifle-associations-during-waco-campaign-stop | https://www.kxxv.com/news/gov-abbott-garners-support-from-state-national-rifle-associations-during-waco-campaign-stop |
A Texas woman is being charged with the murder of her 64-year-old mother.
Deputies with the Harris County Sheriff's Office responded to a Houston home for a welfare check to find the front door open. The sheriff's office said it observed a large amount of blood in the home and found the 64-year-old woman deceased in the garage.
"There was obvious signs of trauma to the body," said the sheriff's office. "Neighbors reported seeing the adult daughter of the complainant acting erratically in the days prior to the complainant's body being discovered."
The sheriff's office said 39-year-old Kristen Woods was arrested on Monday on an unrelated charge and is being held in custody.
"Evidence recovered at the scene indicated that the complainant was killed by her daughter who then attempted to clean up the scene," said Sherriff Ed Gonzalez. | 2022-02-16T21:49:22Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-woman-charged-with-the-death-of-her-64-year-old-mother | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-woman-charged-with-the-death-of-her-64-year-old-mother |
HOUSTON, Texas — A 41-year-old Louisiana man has been sentenced to nearly 27 years in prison on drug and firearm charges, said officials.
Travis Demois Wilson was given a 262-month sentence for drug possession and 60 months for firearm charges, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Upon completing his sentence, Wilson will be placed on an immediate five-year supervised release.
Wilson had driven from Louisana to Houston to purchase meth and pick up a Sturm Ruger pistol, said officials.
The drug deal had been set up using a connection he had with a Houston area pawnshop.
However, law enforcement had been monitoring the shop and recorded him on tape setting up the deal.
Upon leaving the shop, Wilson was arrested following a traffic stop, at which time, both drugs and a firearm were discovered in his personal bag.
During the trial, Wilson attempted to convince the jury the meth had belonged to someone else and that he was not in town to buy any drugs.
The jury did not believe his claims and found him guilty as charged.
Wilson is currently in custody and is pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility that has yet to be determined. | 2022-02-16T21:57:45Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/fbi-louisiana-drug-dealer-pulled-over-arrested-in-texas | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/fbi-louisiana-drug-dealer-pulled-over-arrested-in-texas |
Bell County hoping to add more mentoring and youth services to help reduce crime
Violence and murder are happening too often on the streets of Bell County among our youth. That is why many are calling for more programs to mentor and give kids something to do so they can avoid making those poor decisions.
It does not matter if it is a shooting, stabbing, robbery, or any other crime, you always hear the same thing ... "It is just another day in Killeen."
“They are talking about the area was a drug-infested area and we’re in a poverty stated area,” said Laroyce Rowzee with Rozay’s Event Studio.
The Northside of Killeen is widely considered the most dangerous part of town, according to recent crime data.
That did not stop, Stacey and Laroyce Rowzee, from opening up their event studio on Green Avenue.
“We want to come and be able to help people get better. Everybody is a part of America, and they can’t cut anybody out,” said Laroyce.
The place is packed with games, new and old, for kids of all ages.
“I just want this place to make it man. I just want these kids not to be hurting each other. That bothers me when I see another one is dead, another one is dead,” said Stacey.
In 2021, many of the homicides in Killeen involved juveniles.
“I told them that this is, their place,” said Laroyce.
After pouring $80,000 into Rozay’s Event Studio, they say it is not about the money.
“I did tell them that if y’all don’t have any money I still need you’ll to come,” said LaRoyce. "It is part of supporting me and part of supporting things you guys want to do. Keep them out of trouble.”
“These kids need consistency. They need to see that you actually care for them. If not, it’s like you get their hopes up and you let them back down,” said Long-time Temple Resident Timlicia Robinson.
Robinson said every city in Bell County needs more places for the youth.
“They don’t have the parents in the home, they didn’t have supervision. So they were free to do whatever they wanted to do. I remember looking for my son. He’s out with his friends and they were out until 12'o clock at night,” said Robinson.
Robinson said putting her kids in the UnIncluded club and 411 House, was life-changing.
“They’re happier and more knowledgeable about other people and how they live their lives, their culture. I think it’s important when you’re raising your children,” said Robinson.
Local youth services offer mentoring, new experiences, and guidance. Helping kids reach their full potential.
“You come from greatness and believe that you are great. I think a lot of kids need the positive reinforcement in their lives,” said Robinson. | 2022-02-17T00:54:39Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/bell-county-hoping-to-add-more-mentoring-and-youth-services-to-help-reduce-crime | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/bell-county-hoping-to-add-more-mentoring-and-youth-services-to-help-reduce-crime |
City Federation of Women's Club in Temple closes doors, donates remaining assets
Dennis Turner, KXXV
Construction and renovation get underway at Temple's Hawn Hotel
The City Federation of Women's club in Temple was formed in 1915 but has closed its doors for good this week.
It was a club of women who focused on the vision of education, beautification, recreational activities, health, safety, and patriotism in the City of Temple.
Beverly Kermode, President of the City Federation of Women’s Club said, “We started our organization as a ladies club and on our hay day we had over 1000 members and approximately 40 clubs of all different variety such as music club, garden club...
When we got to the 2000s and then into the COVID … clubs just weren’t meeting, and it got to a point where our clubhouse was costing us more than we could afford.”
Though the club is closing its doors, it gave $200,000 of its remaining assets to local organizations. $100,000 dollars was given to the cultural activities center and they then divided the rest of the money into 10,000 dollar increments and donated it to numerous local organizations in the City of Temple.
$10,000 went to the Temple Symphony Orchestra, the Civic Theater, one children's youth fund, the Unincluded club in Belton, The Music Club, The Garden Club, The Bell County Medical Alliance, and The Children's Museum. | 2022-02-17T00:54:45Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/city-federation-of-womens-club-in-temple-closes-doors-donates-remaining-assets | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/city-federation-of-womens-club-in-temple-closes-doors-donates-remaining-assets |
CALDWELL, Texas — Fire marshals continue to investigate what caused the all-consuming Caldwell Motel fire from Tuesday.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the structure’s remains were still smoking and smoldering.
Among those remains lie the ashy ruins of several dozen lives. Though no fatalities were reported, personal belongings and several pets were demolished by the smoke and flames – leaving motel residents like Hannah Fischer and her husband Jacob Skuval with nothing.
“Yeah, that was our home – everything, all of our home," Fischer said. "Pictures, things from past loved ones, everything - it’s all gone.”
The young couple, who had been living in the hotel for three months, escaped the flames just in time, making sure to wake neighbors and warn them of the impending danger as the fire spread throughout the building.
The American Red Cross and United Way, along with numerous businesses, individuals, and churches, have stepped forward to help the victims.
“We have been working to coordinate the logistics for the people who are affected by the fire," said A.J. Renold, director for the American Red Cross – Central Texas. "...Last night it was just assisting with the Burleson County Health Resource Center, and looking at who was displaced, and how many people needed a place to stay.”
Twelve of the 37 fire victims required immediate assistance with housing, according to the Red Cross. Hannah Fischer noted that many of her neighbors at the motel were long-term, elderly residents.
According to Caldwell VFD Chief David Pevehouse, the cause of the blaze is still undetermined.
“Right now you’re looking at an approximately 40-year-old building," he said. "There’s a chance that the building codes were just different at that time... The wood is old, and the wind was kind of involved a little bit [yesterday]."
Firefighters extinguished the remaining hot spots on Wednesday, and local charities will continue to assist those displaced.
For residents like Fischer and Skuval, the future will be hard. They lost all their possessions, except for their written wedding vows and a few framed pictures.
“This will pass," Skuval said. "It’s only temporary. Everything that we lost were all items, not things like a life."
Those who would like to assist the fire victims can donate to the designated United Way fund, by texting the phrase CaldwellFire to 4-1-444. | 2022-02-17T02:25:55Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/caldwell-residents-lose-all-after-motel-fire-takes-pets-possessions | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/caldwell-residents-lose-all-after-motel-fire-takes-pets-possessions |
Early voting begins off the heels of campaign backlash
City of Brazos
BRYAN, Texas — People are heading to the polls just off the heels of one race facing campaign backlash.
Throughout a campaign, your name and likeness are at the forefront. Incumbent House Rep. of District 14 John Raney believes his opponent John Harvey Slocum has a different message.
”His campaign seems to be running around what his daddy has done and his ties with A&M rather than what he can do for this community,” said John Raney, Incumbent state representative Texas House District 14.
Slocum explains he is proud to stand on the platform his father has built.
”I want those people to know they’re absolutely right," said John Harvey Slocum, candidate for state representative Texas House District 14. "I have a last name that I am very, very proud of, I have a last name that means positive things in this community."
Slocum hopes to continue building on the success of his family's name, but Raney doesn't see the correlation to the work that needs to be done as a house representative.
“Frankly, I don’t know that it is a qualification," added Raney. "The qualifications have to do with what have you accomplished in your life what you have done in elected office and how are you going to continue to do."
While Raney believes ties to A&M do not qualify someone to hold the seat, he hopes to continue his efforts in supporting A&M along with the community.
“I will continue to do the same sort of things I've done in the past," shared Raney. "I will work hard to support Texas A&M, but I will also work hard to support Bryan, College Station, and Brazos County."
Although Slocum does not come from a political background, he believes that is just what the position needs.
“I will have a focused agenda that starts with Brazos County and Texas A&M," added Slocum. "I will make sure that our first responders and our schoolteachers and our school systems are taken care of,”
Early voting is taking place at selected locations like arena hall and the Brazos County election office until February 25. | 2022-02-17T03:57:12Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/early-voting-begins-off-the-heels-of-campaign-backlash | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/early-voting-begins-off-the-heels-of-campaign-backlash |
WOODWAY, Texas — Prices are on the rise at tire shops across the country as supply chain issues continue to worsen. Tire shops in Central Texas are seeing the effects for themselves.
In Woodway, tire shop Tires To You is doing its best to manage a short supply. As a part of a larger chain, it hasn't has as much of an issue getting the products it needs to customers, even if it takes an extra day to deliver.
Tire technician Dkamyan Monroe explained that larger tires are typically the most difficult to track down. His shop, however, is doing the best it can at handling the national supply chain issues.
"It can be difficult, but as of now, we're making do," Monroe said.
Tires To You customer sales representative Nathan Yeager said prices have been fluctuating along with the store's stock for over a year now. Employees said the store's warehouse is about half as full as it used to be.
The shortages come as roadblocks for materials, like rubber, to grow as well.
"The issue with tires is most of the raw materials are not here in the U.S., but the manufacturing firms to make the tires are," said Pedro Reyes, supply chain management professor at Baylor University.
Reyes explained that the Canadian truck driver protest and tensions in Ukraine will likely also strain the American supply chain.
"We're going to see a ripple effect, or we're going to continue to see a ripple effect of shortages," Reyes said.
Luckily, customization options for tires make it easier for shops like Tires To You to find other options for customers, even if it isn't the exact tire they are looking for.
"We're not wet behind our ears about this, we can go off different sizes that work for your car," Monroe said. | 2022-02-17T03:57:19Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/shortages-inflation-impacting-central-texas-tire-shops | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/shortages-inflation-impacting-central-texas-tire-shops |
EXCLUSIVE: Killeen police chief speaks on crime rates, population growth in Killeen
KILLEEN, TX — Killeen is home to over 150 thousand people and many of them being veterans or active-duty military serving at Fort Hood.
”It has history, it is the home of heroes," said Charles Kimble, chief of the Killeen Police Department.
But here’s the thing, Killeen has long held a reputation of being a high crime city and Killeen residents know that.
”A lot of them are concerned about that but, the good thing is that given the size of the city of Killeen, the crime is relatively small,” said Kimble.
According to Killeen PD, the rate of violent crime has risen up from 50 violent crimes per 100-thousand people in January of 2021, to over 57 in January of this year.
It is an increase Chief Kimble contributes recent growth in the city.
”There is a lot of building in Killeen. We’re building homes, we’re building schools. There's a brand-new school right down the street from here. Which is a good thing but, it also brings crime because criminals see the same opportunity as businesspeople,” said Chief Kimble.
According to the Census Bureau, the population of Killeen grew from nearly 128,000 in 2010 to over 153,000 in 2020.
According to Chief Kimble, that means the rate of crime is actually going down.
”The amount of crime has been up and down, it’s pretty stable but, the population of Killeen has increased a lot. So, we’re measured on the rate of crime and given the size of this city and level of crime, the crime rate has actually gone down for the past four years,” said Chief Kimble.
The majority of people in Killeen never even see a crime but, not everyone rides the straight and narrow.
”There is a small population that is feeding on most law-abiding citizens, and we will aggressively go after them.” said Chief Kimble.
KPD says you can help by saying something if you see something. | 2022-02-17T03:57:25Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/exclusive-killeen-police-chief-speaks-on-crime-rates-population-growth-in-killeen | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/exclusive-killeen-police-chief-speaks-on-crime-rates-population-growth-in-killeen |
According to court documents, 53-year-old Jonathan Jefferson Ferris was found guilty of impersonating a federal officer on June 29 of 2021. Ferris visited a pharmacy in Temple on multiple occasions looking to fill out a prescription for Fentanyl patches.
"Ferris always identified himself to the pharmacy employee as an out-of-town FBI agent on temporary assignment," said the U.S. Department of Justice. "Ferris wore a lanyard with a fake FBI identification card attached and used fraudulent documentation purportedly from the FBI to support his request for filling the Fentanyl prescriptions." | 2022-02-17T03:57:31Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/man-sentenced-after-impersonating-fbi-agent-at-central-texas-pharmacies | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/man-sentenced-after-impersonating-fbi-agent-at-central-texas-pharmacies |
The next generation of black doctors, students enrolling in medical school at record rate
The increase of Black and African American doctors in the U.S. has been a slow one.
According to a 2018-2019 report by the Association of American Medical Colleges just over 12,000 students accepted and enrolled in medical school, however just over 1,000 were black, but things appear to be looking up. This spike in enrollment gives doctors like Dr. Sherronda Henderson hope for the future of medicine.
Dr. Henderson is the Interim Division Director Hematology-Oncology at Baylor Scott and White Temple. She's been at BSW for the past 12 years.
"It's actually an honor. It's an honor and a blessing that I don't take for granted," said Henderson.
As she helps and heals her community, Hendersons acknowledges she stands on the shoulders of doctors who came before her.
"Without her becoming a physician within the US, I wouldn't be where I am right now. Knowing that many have come before me and suffered much more difficult paths if they could get to where they were and become as successful as they did, then I know that I can do it," said Dr. Sherronda Henderson.
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first black female physician in the U.S. She graduated from New England Female Medical College, now the Boston University School of Medicine in 1964. Dr. Crumpler cared for enslaved people who other doctors refused to treat.
Today, physicians who look like Crumpler and Henderson, are few and far in between.
Dr. Henderson said, "It makes me feel frustrated and disheartened because I know that because we are lower in number."
Of the active physicians in the U.S., 5 percent identify as Black or African American according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. Having a doctor as a Black patient is critical according to Dr. Sherronda.
"Studies have shown that outcomes for patients that look like us are actually better when you have a physician that looks like you. And so that creates a level of trust between patients and their physicians. Also, with that level of trust leads to better compliance in treatment, recommendations, and care and, again, overall better outcomes," said Dr. Henderson.
However, new data from the AAMC shows black students who started medical school in the U.S. rose by 21 percent from 2020 to 2021. Students at Central Texas College hope to be a part of that growing statistic.
Autumn Morris is a second-year Biology Major at Central Texas College. One day she hopes to be a cardiologist. Her dreams started when she was a child. She chose the path of cardiology after her mother was diagnosed with congestive heart failure.
"Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved patching up wounds passing out Band-Aid's alcohol pads whatever the case maybe I definitely feel like that’s my passion. This is my dream. Students 5 years or 10 years after me, they will know that that number is on the rise and it makes it easier for them to get to that point and to succeed," said Morris.
Trina Orr is also a second-year Biology Major at Central Texas College. She's planning to explore the neurology track with the hopes of becoming a neurologist. Orr also found her passion for the medical field as a child. She hopes to be the representation she wants to see.
Orr said, "You don't see us, a lot of people of color don't go into the hospitals because they don't see people like us. I'm proud to know that I am contributing to that number, and I think that it's very inspirational for our younger generation period."
Orr recently got accepted to UT Austin where she plans to finish her degree, and then apply to medical school. While Morris is planning to attend Texas A&M to complete her Biology degree before heading to medical school.
Seeing the numbers of black students getting accepted and enrolling in medical school gives Henderson hope for a brighter future. Dr. Henderson said she strives to be a mentor to young students so they can feel supported and see that their goals are attainable.
"Providing that mentorship to students that are coming up behind us, so students can know that it is possible and see, see physicians that look like them are successful like me," said Dr. Henderson. | 2022-02-17T03:57:37Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/black-history-month/the-next-generation-of-black-doctors-students-enrolling-in-medical-school-at-record-rate | https://www.kxxv.com/news/black-history-month/the-next-generation-of-black-doctors-students-enrolling-in-medical-school-at-record-rate |
Alternate form of cremation proving popular
CENTRAL TEXAS — It's not a topic we like to think about, but at some point, it comes time to ponder how we wish to be memorialized after death.
Baylor student Clay Jeha says he'd like to be cremated, something he concluded after careful consideration.
"I've thought about it like a decent amount," said Jeha. "I've talked about it with my family, like when we've had family members pass and stuff."
Jeha isn't particularly invested in how the procedure is carried out, but others may find the harshness of fire to be at odds with the sense of peace they hope to find in a memorial service. That's where water cremation comes in.
Also called alkaline hydrolysis, it's a process that dissolves a body in a chemical solution. 95 percent of it is water, the other 5 percent is potassium hydroxide. The solution is heated to speed up the process. The bone remains are similar to that of cremated ashes.
"It is increasing in popularity," said Mike Wilfong, general manager of Waco Memorial Funeral Home. "I've probably had a few people ask about it."
One reason that more people are turning to water cremation is that it's more environmentally friendly. There's no burning of fossil fuels, making it a "greener" alternative. After being introduced to the idea, Jeha says it's something he'd consider.
"After I die I don't care what happens," said Jeha. "So like, if that's what's easiest, or like most cost-efficient for my family to do, then yeah."
Easy, perhaps, but cost-efficient, not really. Many funeral homes don't offer the service because of the high operating cost. For those that do, the service carries a high price tag.
"I think one of the issues that we, the industry, have come into, is that it's relatively expensive at this point," said Wilfong.
But even if you're willing to pay a higher price for the service, you'll have to look outside the state of Texas. Alkaline hydrolysis is legal here for pets but not for humans.
Texans who wish to carry out a water cremation have to ship the body to another state for it to be performed. A bill to allow the process was introduced in the Texas house in 2017, but it didn't get past the committee state.
19 states currently allow water cremation as a legal method for body disposal. The closest to Central Texas is Kansas. | 2022-02-17T03:57:43Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/alternate-form-of-cremation-proving-popular | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/alternate-form-of-cremation-proving-popular |
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the second part of a two-part series. CLICK HERE for Part 1.
WACO, Texas — A Waco shoeshiner is uplifting spirits and he has a few more words of wisdom to pass along.
Silent Maynor is all about making people happy.
"I just try to follow the golden rule," Maynor told 25 News. "I try to treat everybody right."
Maynor has dealt with his share of discrimination.
"I don't dwell on that stuff. If that's what you look for that's what you are going to find and I don't look for it," Maynor said.
As a young man, he would overcome a traumatizing industrial accident that would cost him his right leg but that's not what defines him.
"Every day I'm alive or every week, every month is a celebration," Maynor said. "I just treat people like I want to be treated."
As a shoeshiner, he sets up his booth at the Hilton and other venues like the Extraco Event Center in Waco where even the rodeo clowns 'step right up' for a shine to both the soles of their shoes and the soul they carry through life.
He inspires people from all walks of life.
"Even Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was here," Maynor recalled. "He stepped off this elevator right here next to my stand and I called his name just like I knew him my whole life. I was like 'Clarence Thomas!' Even the guy that played the Fonz, 'ol Henry Winkler, real down to earth fellow."
No matter who he reaches, he's there to be a guiding light just like he does as the deacon for the Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church.
"Some people just want somebody to talk to. So, I've had just a couple of people I was like, them shoes, they still look good from last time I shined them," Maynor told 25 News. | 2022-02-17T14:56:00Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/uplifting-spirits-waco-shoeshiners-words-of-wisdom | https://www.kxxv.com/news/uplifting-spirits-waco-shoeshiners-words-of-wisdom |
Texas A&M to name Reed Arena court after legendary women's basketball coach Gary Blair
Texas A&M Women's Basketball (Facebook)
A&M Women's Head Basketball Coach, Gary Blair.
Texas A&M will be naming the Reed Arena court after national champion and Hall of Fame women’s basketball coach Gary Blair.
The court will be named “Gary Blair Court” in a pregame ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 24, as Texas A&M faces South Carolina, according to the Texas A&M Athletics announcement. The Texas A&M System Board of Regents approved the move, making Blair the third women’s basketball coach to have a court named after them, said A&M Athletics.
“This is an incredible honor,” Blair said. “Having my name on that beautiful floor is a humbling experience. It will be a symbol of all those that helped build this program and all the Aggies that battle on that court, not just in women’s basketball, but in men’s basketball and volleyball as well. My former players, assistants and staff members deserve all the credit. We dedicated our lives to this program and A&M and built it on doing things the right way, the Aggie way."
Blair led the Aggies for 19 seasons and 443 victories, according to Texas A&M Athletics; his community impact also left a mark on Aggieland.
"Coach Blair’s charities has raised over 1.4 million dollars since its creation in 2003. He has helped provide extra funding for multiple charities in the Brazos Valley and worked closely with Special Olympics-Texas," said A&M Athletics.
Blair will be retiring from his coaching career at the end of the 2021-2022 season. | 2022-02-17T23:50:38Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-a-m-to-name-reed-arena-court-after-legendary-womens-basketball-coach-gary-blair | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-a-m-to-name-reed-arena-court-after-legendary-womens-basketball-coach-gary-blair |
Texas man sentenced for N95 mask scam involving Australian government
A 56-year-old Texas man has been sentenced for selling 50 million non-existent N95 facemasks to the Australian government.
Arael Doolittle of Houston pleaded guilty July 27 of 2021, according to U.S. Department of Justice; the court was given evidence that indicated he stole another's identity and forged their signature to commit the offense.
"The Australian government was supposed to pay over $317 million for the masks, but authorities disrupted the transaction before it was completed," said the DOJ.
U.S. District Judge Lynn N. Hughes sentenced Doolittle to a 54-month sentence, according to the DOJ.
"Judge Hughes noted even though there was no actual financial loss in this case, there are still costs associated with cases like this that victims of frauds suffer," said the DOJ.
Doolittle is also charged in a separate case for conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
"In that scheme, he solicited victims to invest in a petroleum trading company," said the release. "However, Doolittle did not invest their money as promised. He actually used the funds to finance unrelated business and personal expenses."
Doolittle defrauded the victims out of $1,935,613.95, according to the DOJ. The two sentences will be served consecutively and total 108 months.
"On May 17, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud," said the DOJ. | 2022-02-18T01:30:35Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-man-sentenced-for-n95-mask-scam-involving-australian-government | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-man-sentenced-for-n95-mask-scam-involving-australian-government |
Aggie convicted of sexual assault used Bible verses to shame victims into silence, says prosecutor
BRYAN, Texas — Jacob Pape, a former Texas A&M student, Christian camp counselor, and member of the Brothers Under Christ fraternity, was sentenced this week to seven years in prison for sexually assaulting women.
There are a number of resources available for sexual assault survivors to turn to in Brazos County, such as the Sexual Assault Resource Center -- and for students, Texas A&M’s Counseling and Psychological Services. Still, many are reluctant to come forward for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Pape, the age-old tactic of shaming and victim-blaming was utilized.
"He also had a religious aspect to that," said Jessica Escue, assistant district attorney for Brazos County. "He knew that our survivors were extremely strong Christians. In fact, all three of them were extremely strong Christians. And he used the Bible and some teachings in order to manipulate them into believing the assaults were their fault.”
The survivor in this week’s case came forward after hearing a sermon from Breakaway Ministries which supported those victimized by sexual abusers, encouraging them to speak out. Roommates of the defendant, who had noticed concerning behaviors, heard that same sermon.
"This had a huge effect not only on our survivors but also on the defendant’s roommates, who were also people of faith, to see that they needed to step in and do something," said Escue.
Escue expressed that many people need more education on the concepts of consent and force. Laws in Texas concerning sexual assault have updated definitions in recent years to include coercion. The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, known as RAINN, explains that sexual assault can occur by means of coercion and psychological manipulation.
“We always encourage survivors, even if they don’t want to report this to law enforcement, to reach out to [SARC]," said Escue. "They have professional counselors and advocates that can advise survivors of sexual assault cases what their potential solutions are.”
Escue also encouraged survivors to speak with law enforcement, even if they don’t feel as though it would help anything – because it just might.
“We tell survivors, even if we are not able to definitively prove your case, having that record... if they [the assaulter] potentially harm someone else, [your report] could be used potentially as evidence in that case, just like it was in this case," she explained.
This week’s case involved just one of three alleged victims. Another victim listed in this case has their own case against Pape pending in court.
For resources on sexual assault, visit www.rainn.org. The Sexual Assault Resource Center is also available at the following link:
Home | SARC (sarcbv.org) | 2022-02-18T03:05:12Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/aggie-convicted-of-sexual-assault-used-bible-verses-to-shame-victims-into-silence-says-prosecutor | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/aggie-convicted-of-sexual-assault-used-bible-verses-to-shame-victims-into-silence-says-prosecutor |
Belton ISD puts $174 million bond on the ballot
The population of Belton is projected to increase by the thousands over the next decade. More people means more families and more kids in schools.
Now, the school district is trying to keep up.
Addressing the district's growth and aging buildings is the main motivation behind the Belton ISD board of trustees unanimously pushing forward a $174 million dollar bond.
BISD Superintendent Matt Smith says community members and the director worked together to narrow down the cost and zone in on what issues need to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Smith said, "We had a community process where we invited over 70 members of our community to engage in a planning process to get us to this point. We've spent over 20 hours with that committee over the fall touring facilities, we had an outside organization come in and assess all of our facilities, and look at where we're going to need to invest things for the future. By doing that, going through a process with the community, they gave me a rank-ordered list of priorities for this bond election."
Proposition A will cost a little over $168,825,00 and will address: elementary #12 and #13, Delta Program facility, expansion of Southwest Elementary, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, roofing and interior finishes, Campus safety and security updates, career, technical education and fine arts additions at Belton High School and Belton New Tech High at Waskow, land acquisition for future schools and facilities, expansion of the fine arts facilities at Lake Belton Middle School, technology infrastructure upgrades, new buses, and expansion of the district agriculture facility.
While Proposition B will cost $5,000,000 and would upgrade technology for students, and staff.
"We want to be conservative with our current situation really address growth, aging facilities as our needs, but we also want to make sure that we're living within that bond capacity that we have right now," said Smith.
Some Belton residents tell 25 News they are concerned about the $174 million price tag.
Smith says because of increased property values and Belton expanding population growth, this bond will not raise the current INS tax rate.
"I understand that we're talking big dollar amounts. But the best news about all of this is because of our growth. And because of thoughtful financial management by current board, past boards, past administrators, we're able to do this without raising the INS tax rate right now and that is something that's really important," Smith said.
Belton residents can make their voices heard on the bond during early voting starting on April 25 or on election day, May 7. | 2022-02-18T03:05:18Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/belton-isd-puts-174-million-bond-on-the-ballot | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/belton-isd-puts-174-million-bond-on-the-ballot |
KILLEEN, TX — Tensions between police departments and the communities they serve have been high for a long time.
Over the past 2-years, protests against police brutality and practices have sparked a national call for change and The Killeen Police Department said it's listening.
”I know there’s issues and I know that relationships with certain parts of the community are strained but, we are going to try our best to un-strain those relationships.” said Charles Kimble, Chief of Killeen police.
KPD said one of their main focuses moving forward is stopping crime before it happens and better transparency with the community,
It all begins with community outreach and engagement.
”We have police officers and I particularly have some people that work out in the community, and we try to talk to people, try to move them away from crime,” said Chief Kimble.
KPD also plans to further work with the community when it comes to handling cases involving mental health.
”You will see an effort from us, coming up very soon, dealing with issue of mental health. That will be rolled out this spring in dealing with people that have identifiable mental health issues, so we have a certain police response.” said Chief Kimble.
It is a policing problem KPD says they are already working with the community to correct.
”Great partners in the medical community. A huge partner with the NAACP. They're really on board with it. They kind of initiated that.” said Chief Kimble.
KPD says they are members of the community and just like the rest of us want to feel safe in it.
”We shop at HEB, we go the YMCA, our kids play ball together, we live in this community. We want a safe community also, but we know that we don’t want to do this on an island. We want community input. We want to work together so that we all have a safe community.” said Chief Kimble.
It all begins with healing the wounds of the past, fixing things that are broken, and moving forward together. | 2022-02-18T03:05:24Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/exclusive-central-texas-police-department-working-to-change-rebuild-community-relationships | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/exclusive-central-texas-police-department-working-to-change-rebuild-community-relationships |
Killeen City Council plans to spend $294,000 on 'coronavirus-related' expenses
The City of Killeen is spending $294,000 on coronavirus-related expenditures.
The question everyone has is, "What expenses in particular will the $294,000 budget cover?"
Leslie Hinkle, Director of Community Development said, “March of 2020 the president signed into a law… The Cares Act which granted several opportunities for cities to combat the coronavirus in their communities … the city was awarded a little over 1.3 million and we have been using those funds.
Hinkle explained, the money is going toward utility, mortgage, and rental assistance programs, as well as, testing and vaccine clinics.
She added, “It’s strictly an administrative situation for us, instead of keeping track of a lot of little budgets, we do one big budget, and we still have the flexibility to use the coronavirus money for the way it was intended, to prepare, prevent and respond to the coronavirus in our community. “
Hinkle said the money serves the same purpose now as it did in 2020.
The only difference is, the council shifted the remaining funds into a different budget category called, "public health and public safety" which focuses on taxpauer's wellbeing and standard of living if affected by the pandemic. | 2022-02-18T03:05:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/killeen-city-council-plans-to-spend-294-000-on-coronavirus-related-expenses | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/killeen-city-council-plans-to-spend-294-000-on-coronavirus-related-expenses |
Texas receiving over $1 billion from pharmaceutical companies in opioid lawsuit
WACO, TX — Texas is getting more than $1 billion as part of a settlement from a massive opioid lawsuit.
The basis of that lawsuit: Big pharmacy companies overlooking or ignoring the massive amount of pills dished out through pharmacies for decades.
Each company is accused of not tracking the number of pills their pharmacies are ordering. Lawmakers across the aisle said it contributes to the larger opioid epidemic.
McKesson Corp., Cardinal Health, and AmerisourceBergen the three pharmacies accused of exacerbating the opioid crisis by overlooking the number of opioid pills that pharmacies ordered in the past two decades.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said a chunk of that settlement is coming to the lone star state.
The money is geared towards outreach: Funding opioid treatment, prevention, and education. The plan is to also create a system to track and report drug shipments.
On top of the $1.167 billion, the state is also getting $75 million worth of Narcan. | 2022-02-18T03:05:42Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/texas-receiving-over-1-billion-from-pharmaceutical-companies-in-opioid-lawsuit | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/texas-receiving-over-1-billion-from-pharmaceutical-companies-in-opioid-lawsuit |
TEXAS — 2021 marked a new high for earthquakes in Texas, and human activity is to blame for most of it.
209 - that's how many earthquakes magnitude 3 or greater rattled the Lone Star State last year. It's more than double the number in 2020. Most were concentrated in western Texas, and some scientists say fracking is the culprit. Some areas are noticing not just a rise in quake numbers, but intensity as well.
"In the northern part of the Texas Delaware Basin, last year we had an increase in the magnitude as well," said Alexandros Savvaidis, a research scientist with the Bureau of Economic Geology at UT-Austin.
15 earthquakes of a magnitude greater than 4 occurred in Texas last year.
Oil drilling produces a lot of wastewater as a byproduct, and producers typically get rid of that water by shooting it back into the ground. That can slowly increase the pressure on fault lines until something slips.
Even if all fracking was to cease operation tomorrow, the Permian Basin would likely continue to experience earthquakes for months.
"From the time that we start injecting the water into the subsurface, until the time we have an earthquake, it might take a few months to more than a year," said Savvaidis.
The earthquakes became so frequent that the Texas Railroad Commission, the agency that regulates the oil and gas industry in Texas, suspended water injections in a small region just outside Midland and Odessa. 33 disposal wells were shut down as a result.
Through a network of seismometers, the Jackson School of Geosciences at UT-Austin is helping the commission locate new areas that may need restrictions on water injections. The seismometers are overseen by the TexNet Seismic Monitoring Program.
"We've actually placed more seismometers in these areas of high seismicity, to give us the best understanding of what's going on in the subsurface," said Mark Blount of the Bureau of Economic Geology.
With new drilling sites popping up, and underground wastewater being on the move, hot seismic zones come and go. That makes it tough to predict just how many earthquakes might rattle Texas this year.
"We see other seismicities migrating to nearby areas, so that means it is too difficult to understand where things will go for 2022," said Savvaidis.
So far, damage to property and infrastructure in the Permian Basin has been minor, but it has still led some homeowners to think about adding earthquake insurance to their policies. | 2022-02-18T03:05:48Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/number-of-texas-earthquakes-increasing-fracking-mostly-to-blame | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/number-of-texas-earthquakes-increasing-fracking-mostly-to-blame |
Community members 'Walk With a Doc' as a part of new initiative to promote health, build relationships
WACO, Texas — After two years of isolation, an initiative by Waco Family Medicine is getting people out of the house and on a walk with health care professionals.
Waco Family Medicine began its monthly "Walk With a Doc" program as a way to encourage people to exercise while having more open, less formal conversations with a doctor. The initiative is nationwide and is one of the hundreds of similar programs across the country.
Dr. Iliana Neumann, a physician at Waco Family Medicine, led a group of community members on Thursday afternoon around the Waco Family Medicine campus, beginning at the Madison Cooper building. Each month, she begins the walk by discussing a pressing health care topic.
February's topic was fatigue and ways to combat it.
"We want to break down that barrier, take the office out of the building," she said.
In recent years, misinformation has clouded many healthcare topics, namely COVID-19. The "Walk With a Doc" program also allows doctors to build trust with community members and provide them with accurate information.
"Building the relationship with our patients for them to have easy access to a trusted source of good information, evidence-based information is really important," Neumann said.
The program will take place every third Thursday afternoon, starting at Waco Family Medicine at 1610 Providence Dr. in Waco. You can find up-to-date information on the Waco Family Medicine Facebook page. | 2022-02-18T04:39:48Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/community-members-walk-with-a-doc-as-a-part-of-new-initiative-to-promote-health-build-relationships | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/community-members-walk-with-a-doc-as-a-part-of-new-initiative-to-promote-health-build-relationships |
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg
A Texas mother has been sentenced to 40 years for beating her 5-year-old daughter to death.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced on Thursday that 24-year-old Andrea Webb falsely claimed her daughter fell to her death from an apartment balcony. Webb called the police to her apartment on March 9 of 2019, saying she fell from the second-story balcony.
"When police asked why the girl was bruised all over her body, Webb admitted that she lied and made up the story because she was scared that she might be charged with murder," said the district attorney's release. "She admitted that she had repeatedly beaten the girl with belts and made her sit against the wall without the support of a chair for hours at a time and would beat her if she could not do the “wall sits.”
Webb and her boyfriend, Devon Gibson, were arrested and his case is still pending at this time.
The young child died from "a consellation" of older and new blunt-force injuries, including patterned and looped scars, contusions and lacerations that resulted in pulmonary fat embolism, acute kidney injury and evidence of systematic stress response.
“This physical abuse went on for a long period of time and didn’t just happen on one day,” Sawtelle said. “The little girl’s body just couldn't take it anymore." | 2022-02-18T04:39:53Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-mother-sentenced-for-beating-5-year-old-daughter-to-death | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-mother-sentenced-for-beating-5-year-old-daughter-to-death |
NewsFirst to the Fight
FEBRUARY 17, 2022 — Bringing healthcare from the facility to their homes, nurse practitioner Ashley Hughes is the first line of defense for veterans.
"What drew me into home-based primary care is that I do get to go into our veteran's homes and meet them personally. I get to spend more time one on one with them, meet their families, and learn their community," Hughes said.
It's a better understanding that allows her to provide more holistic care.
"It gives a broader picture. You can see where they live, how they live, and what social problems they might be running into that you wouldn't typically see in the clinic," she said.
Hughes is also an active duty service member. She's a reservist in the U.S. Air Force with the rank of Major. She said having that experience gives her an added sense of pride and joy.
"I know what it's like first hand to serve our country and I'm able to provide on a daily basis to those who have already served and I feel a deeper connection," Hughes said.
She drives all across Central Texas meeting veterans in need. Many of them suffer from several different health conditions like diabetes.
"If I have a veteran who is A1-C, which is their diabetes indicator is way out of range and then the next time we see them and their A1-C is within range, I get very excited about things like that because that means we are making that difference, making that impact," she said. | 2022-02-18T04:40:01Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/first-to-the-fight/first-to-the-fight-local-nurse-helping-veterans-in-their-homes | https://www.kxxv.com/news/first-to-the-fight/first-to-the-fight-local-nurse-helping-veterans-in-their-homes |
'It is emotionally taxing sometimes': Local nurses reflect on the healthcare industry years into COVID
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — As a little girl, Megan Marks remembers sitting at her Grandma’s doctor's appointments, wide-eyed and in awe of the superhero who was helping her.
“[My grandma] was the one who could always calm me down, and ease any of my fears,” Marks said, remembering her childhood. “Then I saw the nurse do that exact same thing for my grandma.”
It’s OK though, right? A 9-year-old girl usually has time to figure a career out.
Then again, a young girl’s choice of toy is more often than not Barbie or maybe play makeup.
For Marks though? Her choice was a bit different.
“I took around my little baby medical kit with my stethoscope and would give 'shots' to my family,” she said, while laughing at the memory.
That young girl grew up and got her nursing degree from Texas A&M University.
“Being that person, for anyone, and everyone is exactly what I felt like I was called to do with my life,” she said, on a more serious note.
She’s green in the industry.
Joining alongside healthcare professionals just a year and a half ago.
While challenges fueled by COIVD-19 presented themselves during that time, many new nurses also took the step.
“It’s a feeling of peace,” Marks said.
In fact, some might even credit the pandemic as their reason why to join the industry.
According to a report released by the American Association of Colleges of Nurses, nursing programs saw a 5.6 percent increase in enrollment in 2021.
“If you care about people, and if you care about people and you love helping people, there's no better profession than nursing,” said Dr. Amy Mersiovsky, director of nursing at Texas A&M Central Texas.
However, that doesn’t mean burnout doesn’t exist.
“Many people, their hearts have just been broken by seeing the death and disability from COVID,” Mersiovsky said. “They've just felt they have to go do something else.”
The International Council of Nurses reports the U.S. will be down 13 million nurses by 2030 if the rate of decline continues how it is.
“It is emotionally taxing sometimes to take on those patients and then take on those problems for 12 hours,” Marks admitted.
However, Marks said the thought of leaving the industry never crosses her mind.
“No matter how hard it is to take care of them and to be there for them,” she said. “That's going to teach them something that I can learn to be a better nurse.”
Now, years later, her grandmother, the same one from the doctor’s office, calls on her to be her own superhero, all of these years later.
“Being a resource like that for them is everything that I've been doing to be whenever I was young, is somebody that they look to and are proud of,” she said with a smile.
Marks also credits her team at BSW in College Station for keeping her sane.
She said no matter what she goes through, they’re always there, with a shoulder to lean on and an ear to borrow. | 2022-02-18T13:47:13Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/coronavirus/it-is-emotionally-taxing-sometimes-local-nurses-reflect-on-the-healthcare-industry-years-into-covid | https://www.kxxv.com/news/coronavirus/it-is-emotionally-taxing-sometimes-local-nurses-reflect-on-the-healthcare-industry-years-into-covid |
KXXV-TV
Overnight, with light winds and clear skies, we'll have a good recipe for radiational cooling. That will allow temperatures to fall down into the mid 20s by morning. South winds kick up tomorrow pushing us into the mid 60s and starting a warming trend that will take us into the 70s Sunday.
Early next week will start off warm and muggy with temperatures in the mid 70s and rain chances. It's now looking like we will see a big shot of cold air by the middle of next week that could interact with some moisture. Highs will go down to the upper 30s. Right now it is too early to tell if we will have wintry weather, but models are hinting at it so it's something we will have to watch through the weekend. Stay tuned. | 2022-02-18T13:47:50Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/chilly-but-sunny-friday | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/chilly-but-sunny-friday |
KILLEEN, Texas – Police are continuing to investigate the death of a woman who was struck by a BSNF train late Thursday.
Her name is being withheld until next of kin have been notified.
The accident occurred before 10 p.m. at the 10th Street crossing.
When officers arrived, they found the deceased woman on the tracks.
“The preliminary investigation revealed that the train was traveling eastbound approaching the 10th Street crossing when the conductor noticed a person near the tracks,” a Killeen Police Department news release said Friday. “The conductor sounded the train’s horn; however, the individual did not move, and the train struck the victim.”
Justice of the Peace Bill Cooke, after pronouncing the woman dead at 11:30 p.m., ordered an autopsy.
“The investigation is ongoing and there is no other information at this time,” the release said. | 2022-02-18T19:22:43Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/killeen-police-investigation-continues-into-death-of-woman-struck-by-train | https://www.kxxv.com/news/killeen-police-investigation-continues-into-death-of-woman-struck-by-train |
Seven adults and one child were evacuated by Temple firefighters who fought heavy smoke and flames at a 16-apartment building on Friday.
Temple Fire and Rescue said crews responded around 10:30 a.m. to the Windcrest apartment building located at 1310 S. 23rd Street. Upon arrival firefighters began evacuating residents and attacking the fire located on the second story of the building.
"Two of the occupants were evaluated by Temple EMS who was on-scene," said Temple Fire and Rescue. "One of those occupants was transported to Baylor Scott and White with a non-fire-related issue."
The fire department said it responded with 10 units and 27 personnel. The fire was reported as under control by around 11 a.m.
"The heavy smoke and water damage was noted throughout the building with heavy fire damage to the second story," said the fire department.
Investigators and crews are still on-scene investigating the cause of the fire. Temple Fire and Rescue said no fire personnel were injured. | 2022-02-18T22:53:13Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/temple-fire-and-rescue-responds-to-apartment-fire | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/temple-fire-and-rescue-responds-to-apartment-fire |
Houston man sentenced for sexually exploiting child
A 47-year-old Texas man has been sentenced for sexually exploiting children, after authorities encountered and investigated a young girl's relationships online.
Adam Albert Sanchez has been sentenced to 264 months in federal prison, according to U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery. The court that handed down the prison term also noted that his actions have alerted a minor's life forever.
"U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett added that it will impact all of her relationships going forward and how she raises her children if she ever decides to become a parent," said Lowery. "Sanchez was further ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim and will serve 20 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term."
Sanchez will need to comply with requirements that will restrict his access to children and the internet, according to Lowery's announcement; he will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
"In February 2020, authorities encountered minor female online as part of an unrelated investigation," said the press release. "Realizing her young age, law enforcement told her to report any inappropriate conduct she had experienced with any adults online to her parents and authorities. They were eventually able to locate the victim’s family and contacted them."
Authorities learned that Sanchez had picked up the minor near her home in Cypress and took her to a hotel, according to Lowery.
"At that location, he engaged in sexual intercourse with her and recorded it," said the release.
Law enforcement examined the child's phone and found photos inside of a hidden album.
"Sanchez learned authorities had visited the victim’s home and asked her to delete everything from her phone," said Lowery's announcement. "Shortly thereafter, he attempted to take his own life and was admitted to a residential treatment facility," said the release. | 2022-02-18T22:53:14Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/houston-man-sentenced-for-sexually-exploiting-child | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/houston-man-sentenced-for-sexually-exploiting-child |
Students work at their desks at Blanco Vista Elementary School in San Marcos.
Every Friday, the Texas Education Agency and Texas Department of State Health Services release COVID-19 case counts for students and staff, as reported by the state’s school districts. Here is the latest situation for the week ending Sunday, Feb. 13:
Here are the 10 districts reporting the most cases as of the week ending Feb. 13: | 2022-02-19T00:34:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/covid-19-cases-are-declining-in-texas-schools-after-omicron-surge | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/covid-19-cases-are-declining-in-texas-schools-after-omicron-surge |
(Garland Police Department via AP)
FILE - This undated photo released by the Garland Police Department, shows Richard Acosta Jr., 33, accused of driving his son to and from a Dallas-area gas station convenience store where the 14-year-old is accused of fatally shooting three teens and wounding a fourth. Acosta has been indicted on a capital murder charge on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022. He remained jailed Friday on $3 million bond. | 2022-02-19T00:34:37Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/father-of-texas-teen-accused-of-gas-station-shooting-indicted | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/father-of-texas-teen-accused-of-gas-station-shooting-indicted |
Food insecurities on the rise since the start of the pandemic, inflation only making things worse
James Ambot stacks foods onto a pallet at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, Thursday, April 2, 2020, in Oklahoma City. The rush on grocery stores due to COVID-19 has put a bite into the budget at the food bank, which relies mostly on donations of overstock food items to redistribute to the needy. The coronavirus outbreak has thrown 10 million Americans out of work in just two weeks, the swiftest, most stunning collapse the U.S. job market has ever witnessed, and economists warn unemployment could reach levels not seen since the Depression, as the economic damage piles up around the world. The new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms for most people, but for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness or death. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Feeding America found that 1 in 8 people including 1 in 6 children may experience food insecurity in 2021. There are nonprofit organizations in Central Texas trying to combat that.
Texas is one of the most affected states during the pandemic, with more than 1 in 4 households estimated to be food insecure at some point since March 2020.
John Valentine, CEO/Founder, Operation Phantom Support in Killeen said, “3-4000 people come through here to get food every month.”
Many people were in need before the pandemic but now even more so because of it.
Valentine added, “This year we notice the numbers going up a little more because of the inflation, the presidency, and what’s going on with all that.” He said the people that come leave with $75-$100 worth of food in bags and they focus on providing quality and adequate quantity.
Every third Saturday of the month, Operation Phantom Support's pantry is open to the community from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | 2022-02-19T02:14:50Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/food-insecurities-on-the-rise-since-the-start-of-the-pandemic-inflation-only-making-things-worse | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/food-insecurities-on-the-rise-since-the-start-of-the-pandemic-inflation-only-making-things-worse |
Amid pandemic, doctors at Baylor Scott and White - Temple perform record number of transplants
By: Breanna Molloy
Baylor Scott and White Medical Center in Temple set a record.
Even while balancing extra demands from COVID-19, the doctors were able to help nearly 200 patients receive a life-saving organ transplant in 2021. This is a 25 percent increase from their previous record, which was set in 2017.
Kevin Allen from Abilene was one of 167 kidney transplant patients at the medical center last year. He and his wife, Linda, explain their reaction when they were told that Kevin needed to go on dialysis and get put on a transplant list.
“We were floored. We had no idea that things had gotten bad so quickly,” explained Linda.
People often wait years to find a donor, but Linda wondered if she would be a match. She got tested and the results were positive.
“We couldn’t believe it. We are people of faith, and it was just an answer from God.”
Then, Linda says, they had another miracle. When doctors announced the surgery date — it was on her birthday.
“We were like what?! That’s my birthday. Yes! Yes! We just jumped up and down and cried and prayed.”
Baylor Scott and White Medical Center — Temple says there are a few reasons behind the increase. Among them: expanding staff, creating multiple donor matching programs, and a program called “Amy’s House” that gives patients and families from out of town a place to stay while they receive care.
“Central Texas is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country and I think this is just one demonstration that we will deliver,” said Transplant Director Dr. Tun Jie.
The center had patients come from different parts of Texas, and even different parts of the country to get a transplant. One patient traveled from Los Angeles. In a press release, Baylor Scott and White — Temple says it attracts many patients because of its shorter wait times (https://news.bswhealth.com/en-US/releases/a-new-record-nearly-200-patients-received-kidney-or-pancreas-transplants-at-baylor-scott-white-medical-center-temple-in-2021). According to the transplant center, its wait time is 11 months. According to the scientific registry of transplant recipients, other transplant centers in Texas and Oklahoma have a median time to transplant of 43.8 months.
The increase in transplants at Baylor Scott and White — Temple also reflects a national trend. The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) reported more than 40,000 organ transplants in the U.S. in 2021 (https://unos.org/news/2021-all-time-records-organ-transplants-deceased-donor-donation/). That’s a national record. UNOS says the increase came from an increase in deceased donors. It’s the 11th year in a row that number has gone up.
Kevin Allen says he now feels like a new man. His wife says it was the best birthday gift either of them could have received.
“You know how can you thank someone for that? For the gift of life? You just can’t” | 2022-02-19T02:14:56Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/amid-pandemic-doctors-at-baylor-scott-and-white-temple-perform-record-number-of-transplants | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/amid-pandemic-doctors-at-baylor-scott-and-white-temple-perform-record-number-of-transplants |
Some parents may see months-long delay for tax refund
BELL COUNTY, TX — Tax season is in full swing and with many people already having filed their taxes, this year is a little different last year ... especially if you are a parent that received those advanced child tax credit payments.
Last summer the IRS began distributing monthly payments to people who qualify for a child tax credit.
”It’s really expanded for 2021. It is almost double what it was for 2020,” said Dr. David Ritter, associate professor of accounting, Texas A&M Central Texas.
Those payments and along with COVID stimulus checks are making this tax season a little harder than in years past.
”In the past, you could just get your forms, kind of put them together, and go file your taxes. Now, we have the child tax credit and the stimulus check that needs to be accounted for and if those things are not input correctly when you file your tax return, there is a high probability that there will be some type of delay.” said Nicholas Jones. Certified Public Accountant.
Simply entering information incorrectly can cause your return to need manual verification by the IRS...a process that is already delayed due to the pandemic.
”We used to expect 3 to 6 weeks for that to get touched. Now, we’re looking at 3 to 6 months for someone to manually process that return and if you need that money, there’s really no need to rush with incomplete information.” said Jones.
The good news, there is help out there that is often free to make sure you don’t miss anything when filing your taxes.
”People that aren’t earning a lot of money should try to look at the Voluntary Income Tax Assistance, VITA. Which is provided by just about every city in the area.” said Dr. Ritter.
The bug takes away, make sure all your information is input correctly and get help if you need it or you could be waiting months for your tax return. | 2022-02-19T02:15:02Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/some-parents-may-see-months-long-delay-for-tax-refund | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/some-parents-may-see-months-long-delay-for-tax-refund |
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Black History Month allows people like students at Texas A&M to reflect on stories from the past that have shaped who they are and what it means to be a part of a diverse university today.
The traditions at A&M were all foreign for Ronnie McDonald '93, but he became a part of one of its most respected, a yell leader.
McDonald ran for the position in 1991 but when he was elected, he made it his mission to help unify the university.
”At Texas A&M we learned how to build bridges and unite people," said Ronnie McDonald, the first African American yell leader. "We learned how to go across those barriers so we had people from all races that would come together and support us to allow us to be in a leadership position in a community that is not majority me.”
Learning the foundation of those traditions in a leadership role did not come without its share of obstacles.
“That position doesn’t define me," added McDonald. "But I have an opportunity of defining that position, so when I'm going through the points when people are saying you’re the worst yell leader, you shouldn’t be here all those different things,”
McDonald stayed true to his mission of uniting Aggies. He believes the lessons learned still help him to this day.
“When I ran for yell leader it was always that theme of unifying people from many different backgrounds to have a great experience and it’s one that I’ve taken in life,” shared McDonald.
Memo Salinas was the first Hispanic head yell leader at A&M and believes that mission still holds the same weight today.
”We do our best to embody our core values be a model Aggie to everyone around us and spread the Aggie spirit that unites all of us,” said Memo Salinas, Texas A&M first Hispanic Head yell leader.
McDonald said his experience as yell leader prepared him to continue leading his community becoming the youngest and first African American judge in his hometown in Bastrop county. | 2022-02-19T03:51:06Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/a-m-first-african-american-yell-leader-reflects-over-his-accomplishment | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/a-m-first-african-american-yell-leader-reflects-over-his-accomplishment |
Bosqueville family reflects on last year of recovery after 2021 ice storm
BOSQUEVILLE, Texas — It's been a long year for one family in Bosqueville who spent most of that time recovering from the 2021 ice storm. Now just over a year later, the Sanders family is looking back at the hard times.
"It was very much a nightmare," Rose Morgan Sanders told 25 News.
The nightmare started with a burst pipe in the ceiling of one of their bedrooms. Rose Morgan wasn't home at the time but said she came home to the water in every part of the house.
"I had never seen water pouring out of a house," she said. "It was like someone turned a hose on and just laid it on my floor."
For four months Rose Morgan, her husband, and their three dogs lived in a travel trailer as contractors worked to make their home livable again.
"There were days when I wasn't sure there was a light at the end of the tunnel," she said. "There were days I would just come in and sit and cry."
The family was eventually able to move back into their home but not before losing almost everything.
"People tell me all the time, 'oh you got a free remodel'. No, we did not. I did not want a free remodel," Rose Morgan said. "My insurance paid for it, yes, but I didn't want to remodel my house. I was happy with what I had."
With the family now finally settled back in. she said she was worried when she heard more ice was coming earlier this month.
"I was nervous. I was petrified," she said. "I watched the gages, made sure all the faucets were running. I went out to the meter, raised the lid, and made sure it wasn't spinning so we didn't have a leak I wasn't aware of."
Rose Morgan said her faith is what kept her going this last year and she hopes to not never have to deal with a situation like that again. | 2022-02-19T03:51:18Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/bosqueville-family-reflects-on-last-year-of-recovery-after-2021-ice-storm | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/bosqueville-family-reflects-on-last-year-of-recovery-after-2021-ice-storm |
Nonprofit stresses importance of prioritizing mental health for caregivers
Caregivers go the extra mile to selflessly provide physical and emotional support to those who need it most. Today we honor them on Nation Caregivers' Day, but the mental toll of caring for others can cause long-term harm if not addressed.
Tina Capito is a busy bee, with the Garden of Hope foster care facilities expanding.
"Will be an emergency shelter will be a long-term facility and we’re this year opening a childcare placement agency," Capito said.
The team helps care for 300 children in the system, but Capito said the staff has to take steps to practice self-care as well.
Capito said, "These kids have been through trauma. They have been through abuse and neglect. They have been beaten and starved and all those things. If they are not at their best, then they can’t help nurture that child."
Dr. Holly Oxhandler, the Associate Dean for Research and Faculty at Baylor University said, "When it comes to prioritizing mental health, for caregivers, you know, we've seen over the last several years that rates of anxiety and depression and burnout have risen for caregivers."
Oxhandler said emotional support for caregivers is vital especially because caregivers can take on the trauma of those they care for.
"There's also compassion, fatigue, and vicarious trauma and secondary trauma, and a lot of these caregivers who are working with these kiddos you may experience some of this," said Oxhandler.
Capito has her own share of stress as Chief Financial officer trying to cover costs the state does not. The organization now trying to raise $150,000 for its annual fundraiser.
"$150,000 in a nonprofit our size is really not a lot of money it doesn’t even cover our monthly expenses," Capito said. "We are funded by the state. The state pays a fee per day that a child is with us but that fee pays for basic needs such as housing food it does cover transportation, you know some of just your basic everyday needs.
What it doesn’t cover is, think about how expensive clothes are, clothes are very expensive. It doesn’t cover all our mental wellness, I mean bringing in another social worker, and additional staff that takes money we do a great job of taking care of their basic needs, but we need to go the extra mile and take care of their mental wellness as well."
With this in mind, mental health remains at the forefront for Garden of Hope staff, so they can continue to pour their hearts and soul into the children they serve.
"We’re good about giving each other a break and really knowing how to say you need a break," said Capito.
Transforming Life Center does partner with the center to provide counseling for the kids and staff. Being mindful and self-aware is key to maintaining one's own mental health when caring for others.
Oxhandler said, "Prioritizing mental health needs are going to look different for each caregiver, depending on who they are, their background, their experiences, their support, their resources, their environment, and their mental health needs. So, you know, I just want to start by noting that those unique layers are important."
Dr. Oxhandler recommends caregivers reach out to their primary care provider or other mental health resources if they do begin to feel overwhelmed. | 2022-02-19T03:51:37Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/nonprofit-stresses-importance-of-prioritizing-mental-health-for-caregivers | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/nonprofit-stresses-importance-of-prioritizing-mental-health-for-caregivers |
CENTRAL TEXAS — A chilly start to our Saturday but sunny skies and highs in the 60s are expected this afternoon. Sunday will be a bit warmer with highs in the upper 60s and some more cloud cover on the way.
As we head into the work week, things start to change. Monday may see a few scattered showers and storms in the evening hours. This activity will continue into Tuesday morning. We will start the week off warm in the 70s. But a strong cold front will move through Wednesday. How cold we could get is still in question, but this may set the stage for some freezing rain throughout Wednesday and Thursday. We will keep an eye on this as we get closer. | 2022-02-19T15:07:40Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-mild-weekend | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-mild-weekend |
(AP Photo/Emil Lippe)
Baylor guard Kendall Brown (2) smiles as he, forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua, center back, and guard Adam Flagler (10) walk off the floor after an NCAA college basketball game against TCU in Fort Worth, Texas, Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022.
WACO, Texas — ESPN's College Gameday is set to return to Waco for the second time in three years.
T-shirts will be provided to all those in attendance.
This will be Baylor's fifth time hosting the event, including twice before for basketball.
Rece Davis will be hosting and joined by analysts Jay Bilas, LaPhonso Ellis, Seth Greenberg, Dan Shulman, Bilas and Holly Rowe. | 2022-02-19T18:51:34Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/baylor-basketball-to-host-college-gameday-for-third-time | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/baylor-basketball-to-host-college-gameday-for-third-time |
FILE - Elliot Page attends The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute benefit gala in New York on Sept. 13, 2021. Page is working on a memoir, in which he will write about everything from his Oscar-nominated film career to becoming a prominent transgender person. Flatiron Books announced Thursday that “Pageboy” will be published next year. | 2022-02-19T20:36:34Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/elliot-page-memoir-pageboy-to-be-published-in-2023 | https://www.kxxv.com/news/elliot-page-memoir-pageboy-to-be-published-in-2023 |
(The Raptor Center, University of Minnesota via AP)
This undated photo provided by The Raptor Center, University of Minnesota, shows a lead-poisoned bald eagle in St. Paul, Minn. Victoria Hall, veterinarian and executive director of the center, said that “85 to 90% of the eagles that come into our hospital have some level of lead in their blood," and we know that no level is safe.” X-rays often show fragments of lead bullets in their birds' stomachs. (The Raptor Center, University of Minnesota via AP) | 2022-02-19T20:36:58Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/nearly-half-of-us-bald-eagles-suffer-lead-poisoning | https://www.kxxv.com/news/nearly-half-of-us-bald-eagles-suffer-lead-poisoning |
Worker fatally run over by street sweeper he drove
BRANDON, Fla. (AP) — A worker driving a street sweeper in the parking lot of a Florida supermarket has died after a crash sent him flying out of the sweeper truck into its path as it kept moving forward, running over him.
The truck operator had left the parking of a Publix supermarket in Brandon, Florida to make a U-turn and get back into the lot, authorities said in a news release. The sweeper truck went into the path of another car, and this one crashed against the side of the street sweeper, officials said. | 2022-02-19T20:37:04Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/worker-fatally-run-over-by-street-sweeper-he-drove | https://www.kxxv.com/news/worker-fatally-run-over-by-street-sweeper-he-drove |
Warm & windy Sunday in Central Texas
CENTRAL TEXAS — Happy Sunday! Temperatures will climb to the upper 60s and even low 70s in some areas today! We expect some more cloud cover than yesterday, but that won't impact our temperatures too much. Winds from the south could reach up to 20 mph so get ready for a breezy day.
Heading into Monday, some scattered showers are possible in the morning hours as well as a thunderstorm or two in the late afternoon or evening. Scattered showers will continue on Tuesday as a cold front approaches. Before it arrives, temperatures could reach the 80s again, then the weather will take a sharply colder turn going into Wednesday. Rain could still be falling on Thursday morning, and by that time, temperatures may be around freezing. As such, we'll have to watch for some freezing rain potential, but it's too early for the data to handle any specifics. | 2022-02-20T16:40:48Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-windy-sunday | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-windy-sunday |
Advocates push to help officers, families with mental health struggles
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine’s Republican senator has joined a push to help families of public safety officers who have suffered mental health challenges or died by suicide.
Sen. Susan Collins is part of a bipartisan group of senators that is working to help families receive public safety officers’ benefits. Those benefits are currently limited to physical injuries.
She said the bill she is supporting would “provide support for officers suffering from work-related PTSD, as well as provide grieving families with the resources and support they need.” | 2022-02-20T19:25:26Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/advocates-push-to-help-officers-families-with-mental-health-struggles | https://www.kxxv.com/news/advocates-push-to-help-officers-families-with-mental-health-struggles |
Family of 5, including 3 young children, killed in overnight house fire in Leon County
LEON COUNTY, Texas — A family of five was killed in an overnight house fire in Leon County.
"It is with a heavy heart that Leon County Sheriff Kevin Ellis reports that a house fire claimed the lives of a family of five in the Flynn area," said the Leon County Sheriff's Office in a Facebook post.
The home was located on County Road 449 about 13 miles northwest of Normangee.
Sheriff Ellis told 25 News the victims are two adults and three children. He also said the fire started around midnight.
According to a family member, the victims are TJ Donahoe, 24, his fiancée, 22-year-old Haleigh Wiese, and their three young children, Joseph Lancombe, 4, Tenzleigh Donahoe, 2, and Jordan Donahoe, 4-months-old.
Danielle Adams, TJ's aunt, said she woke up around midnight after hearing a strange noise next door. When she went outside, she saw TJ's house on fire and called 911.
"TJ and Haleigh and the babies will be missed," Adams said. "We love them all very much. Please say a prayer for our family."
The State Fire Marshals Office and Leon County Sheriff's Office are investigating. | 2022-02-20T19:25:27Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/family-of-5-killed-in-overnight-house-fire-in-leon-county | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/family-of-5-killed-in-overnight-house-fire-in-leon-county |
XXX YYY at ZZZ on November 6, 2010 in Hamilton Island, Australia. Denise and Mark Duffield-Thomas winners of "The Ultimate Job - Honeymoon Testers" competition for Ireland's Runaway Bride and Groom visited Queensland on the last leg of the 12 month honeymoon promotion testing wedding venues across the world. As part of the promotion the couple will attempt to break the World Guinness Record for the most number of "wedding vows" renewed by a couple, currently 83. | 2022-02-20T21:54:53Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/police-florida-wedding-guest-killed-by-officer-at-reception | https://www.kxxv.com/news/police-florida-wedding-guest-killed-by-officer-at-reception |
H-E-B releases new ice cream flavor, donating proceeds to Texas teachers
10 percent of proceeds will go to DonorsChoose
(Courtesy of H-E-B)
SAN ANTONIO, Texas — H-E-B has just released a brand new limited-edition flavor to help celebrate 20 years of the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards.
The "Education Heroes" release is icing flavored with cake pieces and rainbow sprinkles.
It will be available in both half-gallon and pint sizes, while supplies last.
10 percent of proceeds will be donated to DonorsChoose, helping to fulfill classroom wish lists across Texas.
In 2002, the Excellence in Education Awards program was launched in cooperation with the Texas Association of School Administrators as a way to support public education in Texas.
Since its debut, the program has awarded more than $13 million in funding to support Texas public schools, school boards, early childhood facilities, teachers and principals.
On April 30, a $430,000 check will be awarded to these same beneficiaries at the annual H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards gala celebration. | 2022-02-21T00:12:05Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/h-e-b-releases-new-ice-cream-flavor-donating-proceeds-to-texas-teachers | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/h-e-b-releases-new-ice-cream-flavor-donating-proceeds-to-texas-teachers |
Cedar Point in Ohio cleared in roller coaster accident
(Daniel Miller/The Sandusky Register via AP)
FILE - This May 1, 2003 file photo shows the green train on Cedar Point's Top Thrill Dragster in Sandusky, Ohio. The world's second-tallest roller coaster won't open again this year, Friday, Aug. 20 2021, after a person standing in line was hit in the head by a metal object that flew off the ride last weekend at Cedar Point amusement park. | 2022-02-21T02:21:49Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/cedar-point-in-ohio-cleared-in-roller-coaster-accident | https://www.kxxv.com/news/cedar-point-in-ohio-cleared-in-roller-coaster-accident |
Investor pushes McDonald’s to change its pork
This is the sign outside a McDonald's restaurant in Ebensburg, Pa., Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Investor Carl Icahn has nominated two new candidates for McDonald’s board of directors, the fast-food chain confirmed Sunday.
The fast-food giant said Sunday it expects to source 85 to 90% of its U.S. pork from pigs not housed in gestation crates during pregnancy by the end of this year. | 2022-02-21T02:22:07Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/national/investor-pushes-mcdonalds-to-change-its-pork | https://www.kxxv.com/news/national/investor-pushes-mcdonalds-to-change-its-pork |
Spring-Like Warmth on Monday with a Few Showers
CENTRAL TEXAS — Though it may be a cloudy start to our Monday, the temperatures will give us a bit more reason to get out of bed. We'll start off in the upper-50s and it'll feel more like spring in the afternoon. A few showers will be possible during the morning hours, mainly east of I-35, but those will clear out after lunch. More sun is expected during the afternoon as well. I expect temperatures to rise to 80° in many spots.
Any storms Monday night should be staying to our north. Tuesday will be just as warm with a few showers that morning. We're in for some huge changes on Wednesday as an arctic cold front sweeps through before the sun comes up. With much of the day being spent in the 30s (plus some wind chills) it will be a big shock from the warm weather of Tuesday.
Some showers may linger into Thursday morning and that could be an issue because of how cold we'll be. Temperatures may fall below freezing in the northwest part of Central Texas, and although less likely, that could also be the case in Waco/Temple/Killeen. Rain during that time could become freezing rain, but it's too early to narrow down where or how much. The bottom line is that the potential for freezing rain is still there. | 2022-02-21T02:22:32Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/spring-like-warmth-on-monday-with-a-few-showers | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/spring-like-warmth-on-monday-with-a-few-showers |
(West Virginia Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority via AP, File)
Diana Toebbe entered the plea in federal court in Martinsburg to one count of conspiracy to communicate restricted data.
Prosecutors said they would seek a prison term of up to three years at sentencing.
The memory cards were devices concealed in objects such as a chewing gum wrapper and a peanut butter sandwich.
The Annapolis, Maryland, couple was arrested on Oct. 9 after he placed a memory card at a dead drop location in Jefferson County, West Virginia.
The FBI has said the scheme began in April 2020, when Jonathan Toebbe sent a package of Navy documents to a foreign government and wrote that he was interested in selling to that country's operations manual, performance reports and other sensitive information. He included in the package, which had a Pittsburgh return address, instructions to his supposed contact for how to establish a covert relationship with him, prosecutors said. | 2022-02-21T04:23:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/maryland-woman-pleads-guilty-in-submarine-spy-case | https://www.kxxv.com/news/maryland-woman-pleads-guilty-in-submarine-spy-case |
FILE - Lights illuminate the interior of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York on Sunday, Nov 6, 2016. When a person tested positive for omicron after attending an anime convention at the site in November 2021, health officials raced to determine if the indoor gathering was a superspreader event. It wasn't, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concluded Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022. Widespread masking, vaccinations and good air flow at the Javits Center prevented the highly contagious omicron variant from spreading widely. | 2022-02-21T04:23:43Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/national/cdc-nyc-anime-convention-did-not-spread-omicron-widely | https://www.kxxv.com/news/national/cdc-nyc-anime-convention-did-not-spread-omicron-widely |
Featherstone Fruit & Vegetable (Facebook)
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office said the accident happened after two men began setting up a grain bin to unload corn just north of Mount Vernon.
It took more than an hour to rescue the four men. One man was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. | 2022-02-21T14:47:32Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/crews-rescue-4-men-buried-in-corn-that-poured-from-bin | https://www.kxxv.com/news/crews-rescue-4-men-buried-in-corn-that-poured-from-bin |
Eating disorders on the rise during COVID pandemic
WACO, Texas — The last week of February is dedicated to Eating Disorder Awareness Week, an annual campaign to educate the public about the realities of eating disorders.
Nearly 29 million Americans will suffer from some kind of eating disorder in their lifetime.
Over the past decade, social media and diet culture have been detrimental to our youth when it comes to their relationship with food.
“Our culture kind of encourages diets and it encourages us to change our body based on some of the messages that we receive,” said Kaylyn Muscarello, primary therapist at Path Light.
Cases of eating disorders have risen and gotten worse since the start of the pandemic as anxiety and food-related triggers have increased.
“They didn’t have access to their food, things became scarce so for someone who is already struggling with their relationships with food it just increases that E-D voice,” Muscarello said.
According to Muscarello, there are no tell-tale signs when it comes to eating disorders because of the multiple different types as well as the complexity of each one.
“You can’t look at someone’s physical body and determine whether or not they are struggling with an eating disorder,” Muscarello said.
But, in some cases, those struggling suddenly become obsessed with calories or exercise excessively.
Over the past few years, the National Eating Disorder Association has been working to not only help people recover from the disease physically, but also at a deeper level.
“NEDA encourages this approach of taking care of the physical body but also the mental and emotional health of a person,” Muscarello said.
And Muscarello believes that we can all do our part by watching how we speak about food and even our bodies.
“How many times are people talking about, ‘I need to run x amount of times because this food is so bad," Muscarello said.
"Very easily a person’s relationship with food and their body can become really complicated.”
And if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder the best thing you can do is to talk about it. For more information, you can visit NEDA or contact their helpline number at (800) 931-2237. | 2022-02-21T14:47:44Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/eating-disorders-on-the-rise-during-covid-pandemic | https://www.kxxv.com/news/eating-disorders-on-the-rise-during-covid-pandemic |
FILE - Austin police keep watch as demonstrators gather on June 4, 2020, in downtown Austin, Texas, as they protest the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after being restrained by Minneapolis police officers on Memorial Day. The Austin City Council on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, approved paying a combined $10 million to two people injured when officers fired beanbag rounds into crowds during the 2020 social justice protests, including a college student who suffered brain damage. <br/><br/> | 2022-02-21T22:57:22Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/attorneys-for-accused-austin-officers-awaiting-indictments | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/attorneys-for-accused-austin-officers-awaiting-indictments |
The man responsible for the fatal hit and run crash that killed 19-year-old Texas A&M student Carly Beatty was sentenced to 15 years on Monday.
Beatty was walking back to her townhome with two roommates just after 2 a.m. on September 14 of 2019, when an intoxicated driver failed to control his vehicle and struck her.
"At that time, a caller was already on the phone with 911 to report a drunk driver he had been following northbound on Texas Avenue," said a Brazos County District Attorney. "The defendant did not slow or stop his vehicle."
The caller who witnessed the crash followed the driver, Pedro Puga, as he continued on until he pulled into a nearby restaurant to inspect the damage to his car before speeding away once again.
"The caller provided updates so that College Station officers were able to eventually locate him in the Tejas Center parking lot behind H.E.B. He then fled from officers on foot," said the DA. "During that process, he threw a backpack into some bushes that had a handgun concealed inside."
Following a brief pursuit with officers, Puga was taken into custody. He later showed a blood alcohol concentration of .032, along with the presence of THC, Cocaine metabolites, and etizolam.
"Carly was stabilized by officers and paramedics before being rushed to St. Joseph Hospital," said the DA. "There she was stabilized by ER surgeons and life-flighted to Houston. She died from her injuries a week later."
Puga pleaded guilty to manslaughter and accident involving death charges after prosecutors consulted the Beatty family, according to the district attorney.
“We are relieved that the perpetrator admitted guilt and will be serving time," said a statement from the Beatty Family. "We are devastated that our beautiful daughter Carly had her life taken from her at such a young age and is now unable to fulfill her dreams of becoming a veterinarian. In her honor, we have opened a nonprofit called Carly’s Way to continue her dream. Please visit www.carlysway.org.” | 2022-02-22T00:47:24Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/driver-sentenced-in-fatal-hit-and-run-that-killed-19-year-old-texas-a-m-student | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/driver-sentenced-in-fatal-hit-and-run-that-killed-19-year-old-texas-a-m-student |
KILLEEN, TX — Presidents Day gives us a chance to get a great deal on a mattress or take our kids to the park but, what is Presidents Day really about?
President’s Day is a federal holiday officially named Washington's Birthday and is a celebration of our nation’s first president.
”Unofficially, George Washington’s birthday had been celebrated since the 1790s but, it was codified by an act of Congress in 1879 and it became George Washington’s birthday,” said Dr. Timothy Hemmis, assistant professor of American History at Texas A&M Central Texas.
The original holiday was celebrated on Feb. 22 George Washington's birthday or, at least what became his birthday after the British government changed calendars.
”Washington was actually born on February 11, 1732. However, the British Empire, because he was born in the colonies, the British Empire switched calendars and ended up shifting 11 days,” said Dr. Hemmis.
The holiday switched from Feb. 22 to the third Monday in February in 1971 - effectively giving an extended weekend to celebrate what is now commonly called President's Day and some families are going all in.
”We’re a really patriotic family. We have an American flag in our front yard and everything like that. So, we try to also remember what the holiday is about, not just a day off from school because history is important to us,” said Sarah Sproles, Killeen Mother.
Washington was also a historically revered military general, giving the military families of Central Texas a deeper appreciation for the holiday.
”It’s nice that, as the military, they get the day off but, it’s also an appreciation for them and the families and ... how we’ve gotten here today,” said Megan Johnson, Killeen mother, and military spouse.
Though the federal holiday is George Washington’s Birthday, he is not the only president tied to it.
”Lincoln is often attributed to this idea of Presidents Day but, it just happens to be near his birthday and so they just attribute it to it.” said Dr. Hemmis
President's Day is more than just a day off from school or work, it’s a chance to reflect and celebrate our country’s history. | 2022-02-22T02:33:37Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/why-do-we-celebrate-presidents-day | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/why-do-we-celebrate-presidents-day |
Brazos Valley firefighters stress critical nature of checking smoke alarms
BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas — A family lost their loved one in a house fire on Carter Creek Parkway in Bryan last month. Last week, more than 30 people were displaced following the destruction of the Caldwell Motel.
Now, a young family of five have been found dead after their Leon County home went up in smoke Sunday morning.
Many of us live our lives thinking, "that will never happen to my family." But, if we’re not properly prepared, it can.
“Three out of every five deaths that happen in a fire is actually because they didn’t have smoke detectors – that's a national statistic," said Meghan Reed, community outreach specialist for the College Station Fire Department. "...We do have a lot of people in the community who have trouble keeping their smoke detectors up to date, whether it’s the batteries or the installation.”
It’s a misconception that the average person will wake up immediately when a fire starts in their residence, according to Reed. Often fatalities that occur in house fires happen due to smoke inhalation, not burns.
“Thirty or forty years ago, when our furniture was all made of real material, you had probably ten to fifteen minutes to get out of your home from the time that your smoke detector picked up that there was a fire... Now the average is three to five minutes.”
Firefighters stress having working smoke alarms in multiple places throughout the house – especially in or just outside a bedroom.
"A lot of people will mount them right around the kitchen, and then they will get annoyed because they burn the bacon on the stove and the alarm goes off all the time," said Chief Jason Ware of Brazos County VFD, Pct. 3. "You can mount them just outside the kitchen, maybe in the living room area or dining room area.”
And a smoke alarm is no help if it’s not working properly. It’s crucial to replace batteries twice a year – ideally at every daylight savings time change. And batteries should be checked once each month.
"Definitely check them," Ware stressed. "They’ve got a little button on the side to push. When my kiddo was growing up, I would make it a game and push the button on the smoke detector to make it go off, and he enjoyed that a lot.”
Some fire departments and organizations offer free smoke detector home inspections, and some will even change batteries for elderly or low-income residents.
For resources on fire safety and home inspections, visit the American Red Cross website:
Sound The Alarm – Save a Life | Red Cross | 2022-02-22T04:15:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/brazos-valley-firefighters-stress-critical-nature-of-checking-smoke-alarms | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/brazos-valley-firefighters-stress-critical-nature-of-checking-smoke-alarms |
Birth rates declining since COVID-19 across the U.S., here in Central Texas
FILE - This Feb. 16, 2017 file photo shows newborn babies in the nursery of a postpartum recovery center in upstate New York(AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)
The COVID-19 pandemic has been affecting the US population at large. One study from U.S. Census data shows it has also caused birth rates to decline further.
Experts say there has always been a decline, but today COVID has made people more hesitant when it comes to procreating.
Local mother of three Naara Meas says prices are increasing and a new addition to their family is something they just can't afford.
Meas said, “Climate change, new diseases… the economy is not making it any easy.”
With the current times, she said things are just too uneasy.
“Society is making it hard”, said Meas.
In January, the labor department reported the consumer price index, which measures how you pay for goods and services... it reached the highest level since 1982, and a lot of it can be tracked to COVID-related issues.
Professor of Economics, Robert Tennant said, “Job certainty issues, increased inflation…we have the highest inflation growth rate that we’ve had in 40 years.”
As people put a pause on growing their family, the decline in birth rates will bring problems in the near future experts said.
Professor Tennant said, “I would say if we continue to decline ... the challenges that would occur would be it would take fewer and fewer current working people to cover the retirement benefits like social security. So for it to remain viable a higher rate would have to be taxed to people for it to still exist.”
The U.S. Census revealed a downturn in births in the winter of 2020-2021, and while the Federal Reserve of Dallas shows Texas women are still having more babies than women in other states .... they found that the birth rate dropped significantly since 2007. | 2022-02-22T04:15:09Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/birth-rates-declining-since-covid-19-across-the-u-s-here-in-central-texas | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/birth-rates-declining-since-covid-19-across-the-u-s-here-in-central-texas |
Cold Front Arrives This Afternoon
Highs reach the upper 70s before an Afternoon Cold Front.
Temperatures should fall to around 40° by midnight, which will go down as our official high temperature. They'll continue to fall to the mid 30s by morning. Drizzle will also be developing, and could fall as freezing drizzle to the northwest of Waco-Temple-Killeen. This could lead to slick roadways, particularly bridges and overpasses. The good news is since this is light freezing rain, we shouldn't see power outage issues. However, roads could become slick, so we will have to monitor things closely.
The biggest issues could come Wednesday night into Thursday as most of the area will be below freezing while we get another surge of moisture into the atmosphere. This is when freezing drizzle could turn into light freezing rain, and will have the best chance at accumulating on area roadways. The Thursday morning commute could be an issue - particularly along and west of I-35...though issues could stretch into the Brazos Valley if colder air penetrates further south.
Precipitation should come to an end Thursday evening as a reinforcing shot of cold air moves across. This is when the coldest air will move in with lows falling into the 20s. We'll warm above freezing during the day on Friday, though enough moisture could be in the atmosphere both Friday and Saturday to produce rain showers. No heavy rain is expected. We'll stay chilly through the weekend with highs in the 40s and 50s. A warm-up into the 60s and 70s is expected next week. | 2022-02-22T12:05:20Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/cold-front-arrives-this-afternoon | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/cold-front-arrives-this-afternoon |
Brazos Electric opens bankruptcy case against ERCOT, fighting $1.9 billion in unpaid bills
WACO, Texas — The largest electrical co-op in Texas is set to open its bankruptcy case Tuesday, stating it was overcharged hundreds of millions by the state's grid operator.
As reported by the Houston Chronicle, Brazos Electric is arguing that the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) violated market rules when it set power prices at $9,000 per megawatt-hour during last year's winter storm — over 300 times the normal market price.
By allowing these rates to last for over 30 hours, the Waco-based co-op says their power bills were increased by $1.6 billion.
U.S. Bankruptcy Judge David Jones will decide how much of their $1.9 billion debt from ERCOT bills will need to be paid back.
In a statement released last year, Clifton Karnei, executive vice president of Brazos Electric, said the bankruptcy case was needed to "protect its member cooperatives and their more than 1.5 million retail members from unaffordable electric bills.”
The co-op is also arguing that the rolling blackouts issued by ERCOT were not justifiable market interventions under rules regarding state power.
Fired ERCOT President Bill Magness, who managed the grid during the storm, is set to testify in the trial.
Also testifying will be DeAnn Walker and Arthur D’Andrea, both former commissioners of the Texas Public Utility Commission, which directed ERCOT to override the power market.
Legislation has since failed in the House to withdraw $4.2 billion in similar bills from ERCOT.
State House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, has stated these bills would have been an "extraordinary government intervention into the free market.” | 2022-02-22T16:06:46Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/brazos-electric-opens-bankruptcy-case-against-ercot-fighting-1-9-billion-in-unpaid-bills | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/brazos-electric-opens-bankruptcy-case-against-ercot-fighting-1-9-billion-in-unpaid-bills |
Temple ISD proposes 'fine arts academy,' ending portables in new bond
TEMPLE, Texas — After an unsuccessful election in November, Temple ISD’s multi-million dollar bond will be back on the ballot this May, but with a few tweaks.
“We stand at $164.8 million," said Temple ISD Superintendent Dr. Bobby Ott.
"The tax impact is less than 3 cents. That’s incredible because if you remember in November, that rate was about 12 to 12 1/ half cents,”
The superintendent said that they will cut seven projects from the proposed bond this time around, including the plan for improvements to the Wildcats stadium.
“That was $6.6 million dollars, so that’s completely out,” said Ott.
The new bond does include eliminating portable classrooms, security improvements and around $38 million for a new elementary school.
“That new elementary school will be fine arts academy," said Ott.
"It will have theater and it will have orchestra, which most elementary schools across the state do not have those programs,”
Dr. Ott said they expect to see 400 new homes a year for the next 5 years, which is why the new school is a must-have.
“If you say no to a new elementary school, here’s what you’re saying yesterday, you’re saying yes to more portables," said Ott.
"Which is something the community, since 10 years ago, has been trying to get rid of,”
Ott said they have 20 portables on campus, half the amount they had 10 years ago.
He also said they would have to look at rezoning the district if this bond fails.
From Temple ISD:
The most significant bond projects include preparations for growth that were part of the 2021 Demographic Study as well as safety and security updates:
If approved in May, Temple ISD taxpayers will see an approximate $1.48 per month increase in property taxes for a home valued at $100,000.
Citizens that are 65 years of age and older would not be impacted if they have filed for and received a homestead exemption with the State of Texas.
For more information about the bond, click here. | 2022-02-22T17:56:01Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/temple-isd-proposes-fine-arts-academy-ending-portables-in-new-bond | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/temple-isd-proposes-fine-arts-academy-ending-portables-in-new-bond |
Temple police searching for robbery suspect
(Temple Police Department)
TEMPLE, Texas — Temple police are asking for help identifying a male suspect involved in a robbery in the Brooks Drive area.
On Tuesday morning, an unknown man walked out of a store without paying for a battery.
Police said after an employee tried to stop him, he responded by assaulting him.
The employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The suspect is a middle-aged male, who at the time of the incident was wearing a white T-shirt, blue jeans and a cowboy hat.
Anyone with information should call the Temple Police Department at 254-298-5500 or the Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477 to report anomalously. | 2022-02-22T17:56:07Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/temple-police-searching-for-robbery-suspect | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/temple-police-searching-for-robbery-suspect |
Waco dog grooming business thrives amid pandemic
WACO, Texas — For many business owners, the pandemic has made it difficult to stay afloat, but one Central Texas business woman didn’t let it get her down.
Just over a year ago, Shelbi Todaro took on the challenge of starting her own grooming business.
“I knew I wanted to work with animals since I was able to talk,” Todaro said.
But before Bentley’s Paw Spa was born, it started as a way to get her own families dogs groomed.
“My parents had a lot of dogs and none of them were really good at going to the groomers. So I decided to buy my own equipment,” Todaro said.
And that’s when Todaro realized just how many dog owners have a difficult time finding a business or person who could actually pamper their pups.
“I just really wanted to create a place where dogs that are a little bit more reactive and nervous of being around people and all of the chaos that a salon brings," Todaro said. "I just wanted to make sure that those dogs could get groomed too because they typically get turned away."
Using her own home as her office, she started Bentley’s Paw Spa in January of 2021, right in the middle of the pandemic. But, that didn't stop her.
“All of the typical salons were closed and so I would safely take the dogs and let owners stay in their car," Todaro said. "I was able to help people that otherwise wouldn’t be able to get their dogs groomed."
But starting the spa came with plenty of obstacles.
“In the beginning it was overwhelming because I had to learn all of the tools myself and set up," Todaro said. "It is so expensive. It took me a while to get all of this stuff I have now."
And, after celebrating her one year anniversary, she now has dozens of new canine clients every week and gets to do what she loves everyday.
For more information, you can visit the Bentley's Paw Spa Facebook page. | 2022-02-22T17:56:13Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/local-dog-grooming-business-thrives-amid-pandemic | https://www.kxxv.com/local-dog-grooming-business-thrives-amid-pandemic |
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