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Family of murdered University High student speaks out
A&J's Customs
WACO, Texas — Family members of a 16-year-old University High School student athlete are devastated after he was shot and killed Sunday night.
Drevion Booker was a varsity basketball player that expected to graduate in 2024, according to Waco ISD.
"University Trojans...they had a tournament tomorrow. I'm sorry he ain't going to be able to see it," Booker's father Jamon Scott told 25 News.
Scott and Booker's mother, Rashanda Patterson, describe him as a smart, fun-loving kid who loved his sport.
"It's just senseless man, you know? Where's your heart? Where?" Scott asked.
The family said they are in a state of shock and confusion, with plenty of questions as the murder investigation into his death continues. They ask people with more information to come forward.
"We don't have no idea. Everyone is wondering .... What?" Scott said.
Booker's death marks the fifth murder investigation by Waco Police this year. 2021 saw 16 murders over the course of the entire year.
Owner and funeral director at Serenity Life Celebrations, Adrian Green, said he has seen stories like Booker's all too often in recent years.
"I don't want to meet with mothers and fathers that are burying their children, not even in high school," Green said.
Booker's family is the third to come in this year after losing a loved one to gun violence. He said that change has to be made in the city to stop it.
"It's not the community that I know. It's not, it does not reflect our heart in Waco, it does not reflect what we stand for as people," he said.
A vigil for Booker is planned to take place at University High School on Wednesday afternoon.
"I just want him back," Patterson said. | 2022-02-22T18:45:24Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/family-of-murdered-university-high-student-speaks-out | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/family-of-murdered-university-high-student-speaks-out |
Belton ISD students virtually travel the world in 24 hours
Some students in Belton ISD got the chance to expand their worldview, and travel the world virtually in 24 hours, from the comfort of their classroom.
24 students from North Belton Middle School chatted virtually with a wide range of people from 24 countries in 24 hours, a part of the district's 2nd Annual World Stampede Day.
One of the organizers, 6th grade Social Studies Teacher at North Belton Middle Cindy Harvey said, "We have such an inquisitive group of kids here. They are excited constantly to learn about the world and the cultures and meet people."
Harvey and the students pulled an all-nighter, interviewing folks on the other side of the world every hour.
6th grader Alana Martinez at North Belton Middle got the chance to speak to some people from Norway.
"I’m very excited to be able to have this opportunity to talk to people all around the world," said Martinez.
While her classmate Kameron Smith interviewed some college students from China and found out they actually share a lot in common.
Smith said, "I just finished the interview in China and I learned a lot about just them, in general, they listen to a lot of the same music as we in the United States do. Learning about the country and it gives you someplace to go when you get older and some people to visit learning about them is amazing."
"We’ve had so much help from administrators our principal was wonderful with it and parents really were involved with helping with everything from bringing snacks to helping me make connections with people around the world," Harvey said.
Harvey said they are already planning to participate next year.
Lake Belton High and Middle School also participated in the event. | 2022-02-22T18:45:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/belton-isd-students-virtually-travel-the-world-in-24-hours | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/belton-isd-students-virtually-travel-the-world-in-24-hours |
San Antonio man sentenced on child pornography charges
Online harassment is becoming more common and more severe
A Texas man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison on child pornography charges, resulting from his online relationship with a minor.
The San Antonio man, 24-year-old Francisco Govea Tristan III, used a social media platform to coerce the minor to send photos and videos of sexually explicit content, according to a U.S. Attorney’s Office and court documents.
"When confronted by law enforcement, Tristan admitted he asked the minor to produce and send him pornographic images and videos," said the attorney's office. "He also admitted he had other child pornography on his mobile phone."
Tristan pled guilty to one count of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography, according to the Western District of Texas U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“The defendant was a child predator who inflicted significant damage on his victims, which is reflected in his sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff. “These types of crimes leave a wake of destruction and brokenness for both the child victims and their families. This office is committed to ensuring that this defendant and others like him are removed from society and further damaging others.”
The FBI investigated the case, said the U.S. Attorney's office; and Tristan has been in federal custody since his arrest in 2019. | 2022-02-22T21:34:17Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/san-antonio-man-sentenced-on-child-pornography-charges | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/san-antonio-man-sentenced-on-child-pornography-charges |
Police said at about 2:30 a.m. they responded to the 400 block of East Avenue D in response to a business alarm. Officers found several businesses to be burglarized as they arrived.
"As officers were canvassing the area, they located a vehicle in a nearby parking lot with two occupants inside," said police. "During the investigation, officers conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and discovered items stolen from the burglaries."
The two suspects, James Darell Lincoln and Isaac John Allan, admitted to their involvement and were taken into custody without incident, according to Copperas Cove police. Each have been charged with four counts of burglary of a building.
Both were arraigned Tuesday by Justice of the Peace John Guinn to receive a total bond of $40,000. | 2022-02-22T23:16:34Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/2-copperas-cove-men-arrested-for-burglary-of-several-businesses | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/2-copperas-cove-men-arrested-for-burglary-of-several-businesses |
By: Rebecca Fiedler , Khadeeja Umana
No foul play is suspected in the fire that killed two adults and three children over the weekend, according to the Leon County Sheriff's Office.
Damage and destruction to the residence, a single-wide mobile home located on County Road 449, was extensive. The sheriff's office said they were able to locate the first four victims of the family first, but it was more difficult to locate the fifth, smaller child's, body.
TJ Donahoe, his fiancée Haleigh Wiese and three children; 4-year-old Joseph, 2-year-old Tenzleigh, and 5-month-old Jordan all passed away in the fire on Sunday.
At this time the cause of the fire has not been confirmed, but the sheriff's office said there were several portable heaters in the home. The source of the fire could be electrical but final determination will be made by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
It isn’t uncommon for multiple people to die in a house fire due to smoke inhalation, according to the sheriff's office.
An update in the ongoing investigation may be available within 60 days, pending the medical examiner’s office. | 2022-02-22T23:16:40Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/no-foul-play-suspected-in-leon-county-fire-that-killed-5-says-sheriffs-office | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/no-foul-play-suspected-in-leon-county-fire-that-killed-5-says-sheriffs-office |
City of Killeen weighs owning, purchasing its streetlights from Oncor
KILLEEN, TX — Over 4,500 streetlights line the streets of Killeen but the city doesn’t own them, the city council wants to change that.
The City of Killeen is weighing whether or not to purchase the city’s street lights from Oncor.
Killeen’s streetlights are currently owned and maintained by Oncor and it is costing the city of Killeen hundreds of thousands a year.
”In our presentation, right now we pay for our streetlights, the poles, about 10 dollars and some cents per,” said Jose Segarra, mayor of Killeen.
With over 4,500 streetlights in the city, they are paying Oncor over $700,000 a year. It's a cost the city wants to cut.
”If we were to own them ourselves, the cost would be about 45 cents. So, tremendous savings to own those streetlights,” said Mayor Segarra.
Local economists say it would only be a good thing for the city to own the lights.
”They would be able to maintain them and eventually, they should cost less to operate and in doing so, they would be able to put more lights throughout Killeen for the same cost they currently incurring,” said Dr. Rob Tennant, Associate Professor of Economics at Texas A&M Central Texas.
The city says Oncor is not interested in selling the lights, something experts say could be due to Oncor losing money in the long run.
We look forward to hearing from the City of Killeen and will seriously consider any request that they might make. It is also important to note that Oncor does not determine the need for street lighting but works closely with local officials across our service area to maintain existing lighting and install additional lighting as determined by each city.
- Statement from Oncor
”They would get an upfront amount of money, but it wouldn’t be an ongoing thing. All they would get after that is just for the electricity use,” said Dr. Tennant.
Oncor not wanting to sell is an obstacle, but Mayor Segarra says the city isn’t giving up yet.
”I think the council still wants to put it out there and say, hey we're interested in buying them but, we’ll see where it goes from there," said Mayor Segarra. | 2022-02-23T00:57:54Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/city-of-killeen-weighs-owning-its-streetlights-purchasing-from-oncor | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/city-of-killeen-weighs-owning-its-streetlights-purchasing-from-oncor |
Melissa Lucio has been on death row for 15 years for the death of her 2-year-old daughter Mariah in 2008
WACO, TEXAS — The execution date is approaching a for a South Texas woman who was convicted of capital murder in 2008. At Heritage Square in Downtown Waco, family and supporters rallied to highlight the case that has ended up as a documentary on Hulu, “The State of Texas Vs. Melissa.”
For more than 15 years Melissa Lucio has been on death row for the death of her 2-year-old daughter Mariah in 2008 who fell down some steps and died two days later due to a brain injury. Last month, she received her execution date set for April 27th. "Melissa is a life, lives matter, everybody life matter and her life did not matter that day when she was sentenced to death," says her sister Sonya Valencia Alvarez. Sonya alongside other family and supporters have traveled across Texas urging Texas to watch the documentary.
The clock is winding down with a little over 8 weeks (about 2 months) left until Lucio is set to be executed, "It has just been a nightmare for all of us, " says Alvarez. Louis is one of 6 women currently on death row and the only Latina women to be sentenced to death in Texas history.
Melissa case went through six appeals to an overturned conviction, including the U.S. supreme court but all have been dismissed or denied. Cameron County District Attorney Luis Saenz stating that "a jury came down with a guilty verdict in Lucio's case and he stands by her conviction." Filmmaker of the Hulu Documentary Sabrina Van Tasse shared that "the 5th circuit of appeals which is the most conservative court in the country reversed her conviction based on she did not receive a fair trial, we really thought that was going to save her."
Supporters of Melissa Lucio are now urging people nationwide to watch the documentary which details her case with a goal to set her free. Lucio's attorneys are currently seeking additional time to present evidence of her innocence and for Cameron County to withdraw their execution date if Cameron County denies their motion, it will head to the state court. | 2022-02-23T00:58:06Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/family-members-and-supporters-gather-at-heritage-square-to-free-melissa-lucio | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/family-members-and-supporters-gather-at-heritage-square-to-free-melissa-lucio |
Gov. Abbott directs Texas DFPS to investigate abusive gender-transitioning procedures
FILE - Demonstrators gather on the steps to the State Capitol to speak against transgender-related legislation bills being considered in the Texas Senate and Texas House, Thursday, May 20, 2021, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
A letter to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services asks the agency to conduct the investigation. The letter states that the Office of the Attorney general confirms that a number of sex-change procedures are considered child abuse under Texas law.
"Because the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting children from abuse, I hereby direct your agency to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of any reported instances of these abusive procedures in the State of Texas," said the letter. "To protect Texas children from abuse, DFPS and all other state agencies must follow the law as explained in OAG Opinion No. KP-0401."
Texas law requires that all licensed professionals, including doctors, nurses, and teachers, to file a report following direct contact with children who undergo abusive gender-transitioning procedures.
"The Governor's letter also mentions that the law imposes a duty on DFPS to investigate the parents of children subjected to gender-transitioning procedures, and on other state agencies to investigate licensed facilities where such procedures may occur," said Gov. Abbott's office. | 2022-02-23T00:58:12Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/gov-abbott-directs-texas-dfps-to-investigate-abusive-gender-transitioning-procedures | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/gov-abbott-directs-texas-dfps-to-investigate-abusive-gender-transitioning-procedures |
Hidden bakery on the outskirts of downtown Bryan offers family new hope
Family-operated business thrives due to grit and determination
BRYAN, Texas — What if I told you on a quiet back road, on the outskirts of Downtown Bryan, where the number of houses could be counted with just a few fingers, sits an entire bakery?
Now, what if I told you that the bakery was inside of a 10x18 shed in a family’s front yard?
You’d think I’m crazy, right?
That doesn’t matter to Tenika Williams though, the owner of the place.
“As long as you believe in yourself, there's absolutely nothing you can’t do,” she said, standing next to her son Devarion.
The mother son duo turned business partners when they began creating custom t-shirt together.
Yes, in the same shed.
It wasn’t until Williams’ daughter had hopes of opening her own bakery, specializing in cupcakes, that this new dream came to life.
”We went from Thanksgiving, Christmas to almost every day, somebody is placing the order,” said Guyton, thinking back to the roots of Royalty Bakes.
Guyton is a full-time student-athlete at Sam Houston State, playing football while earning a business degree.
He also works with his father, operating heavy machinery for a driveway installation business.
He’s not the only kid involved in the business though.
There’s two others, all playing a vital role.
“Everybody has their own job that they're good at,” Williams said.
Her youngest son, who’s 18, is a great taste tester and delivery driver, according to the pair.
Williams’ daughter, who’s 19, focuses on cupcake orders.
Tenika Williams / Royalty Bakes
”We weren't born into money,” Williams said. “We have to come up with a way to make sure that we are able to survive.”
Williams worked diligently and in silence on Monday, thinking about the challenges they face as as a minority-owned business.
“I definitely want to make sure I leave something behind so we can break the generational curse,” she said.
She walked us through her childhood, explaining that going to college was rare in her family.
That goal may have seemed far off for teenage Williams. She never completed highschool.
If it wasn’t obvious until now, determination took over.
She earned her GED and started taking classes at Sam Houston State.
It was there she made a promise to herself and future family: going to college isn’t an option.
All three of her kids go to her alma mater, and she explained that paying for it isn’t cheap.
That’s why she does what she does.
Tenika Williams carries one of her cakes as a purse.
“I'm up sometimes two to three o'clock in the morning, and then I sleep three hours, get up, six o'clock, go work at the school, come home, and I'm right back at it,” she said. “It's nonstop.”
For now, she said, there’s no place she’d rather be than in that little shed in her front yard, bonding with her family, while making treats for the community.
“I've never concerned myself with those who do not support me,” she said. “I'm more focused on the ones that do support me and what can I do to keep giving them what they need to keep coming back.”
The company ships across the country and can deliver here at home! To place an order, you can go to Royalty Bakes’ website. | 2022-02-23T13:50:00Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/hidden-bakery-in-downtown-bryan-offers-family-new-hope | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/hidden-bakery-in-downtown-bryan-offers-family-new-hope |
(Don Shrubshell/Columbia Daily Tribune via AP, Pool File)
Defendant Joseph Elledge testifies how he pushed his wife Mengqi Ji, during a shoving match before she fell and hit her head in Oct. 2019 during his murder trial Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, in Columbia, Mo. Elledge, convicted of killing his wife, burying her body and lying to authorities about her whereabouts pleaded guilty Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022, to child abuse charges involving the couple's young daughter. | 2022-02-23T13:50:13Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/missouri-man-convicted-in-wifes-death-admits-child-abuse | https://www.kxxv.com/news/missouri-man-convicted-in-wifes-death-admits-child-abuse |
BRYAN, Texas — Texas A&M sophomore Carly Beatty had a heart unlike any other.
According to Carly's Way, the animal rescue founded in her memory, she would go out of her way to care for animals in rescues who were overlooked, or close to euthanasia.
When then 17-year-old Bryan resident Pedro Puga hit Beatty with his car in September of 2019, he took not only a life, but the potential of a future veterinarian, who could have saved thousands of lives herself.
“We’ve heard from a lot of community members," said Cindy Kovar, program manager for the Brazos Valley Injury Prevention Coalition.
"A lot of [Texas A&M] students knew Carly,
"She was well-liked, and obviously very well missed... so a lot of people’s lives were affected by her loss,
"Especially as they continue to be with her family and friends.”
Brazos County Prosecutor Brian Price has worked much of this case, and was there on Monday when Puga was sentenced to 15 years in prison for manslaughter.
“This was a horrendous crime, what he did," Price said.
"His behavior afterward was horrendous,
"Once he was taken into custody, he was mouthy, he was cussing at the officers, he was very nonchalant about what had happened,
"He was much more concerned about what his bond was going to be and what would happen to him."
According to the district attorney's office, Puga’s bloodwork showed that while he had only a small amount of alcohol in his system - just under four percent blood alcohol, hours following the incident - he had also consumed THC and a drug chemically similar to Xanax.
“So taking two or more drugs of any type, and we’re going to consider alcohol a drug, is incredibly dangerous, as a substance will often interfere with how the body responds to the other," said Kovar.
Though Puga was young at the time of the offense, Price said that his choices, including the decision to leave Beatty lying on the sidewalk as he fled the area, garnered the multi-year prison sentence.
Even with Puga pleading guilty and reaching a plea agreement, Price noted that 15 years is still a close sentence to the 20-year maximum.
The Beatty family are quoted in a district attorney press release:
“We are relieved that the perpetrator admitted guilt and will be serving time," the family stated.
"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.” | 2022-02-23T19:27:26Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/aggieland-mourns-death-of-sophomore-bryan-man-sentenced | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/aggieland-mourns-death-of-sophomore-bryan-man-sentenced |
KILLEEN, Texas — Many in Central Texas who have no place to call home want something better, but don’t know where to start.
“If they can get an interview, have a place to secure their things, have a place to get a good night's sleep, get a shower, shave and have clothes that are clean, ready to go, they have an opportunity to get that job," said Fort Hood Habitat for Humanity CEO Ken Cates.
It’s why Fort Hood's Habitat for Humanity and Cove House Emergency Homeless Shelter are planning to use nearly 3 acres to create some 30 housing units for the “Homeless to Housed” program.
“The point is to incentivize them to want to keep moving forward," said Cove House Emergency Homeless Shelter Executive Director Brian Hawkins.
"So they have a place that they can move up to so they can have a goal that they can see,”
The $1.3 million concept starts with people in a 200 square foot unit.
As residents show more financial responsibility and success, they can move to bigger units.
“With that, folks with his program are able to see that next size unit right on the same campus," said Cates. "And then they ask themselves what do they need to do to get the next size unit."
“We do a budget class with them and lay down their budget," said Hawkins.
Every two weeks they have a meeting with a case worker to submit their income, their pay stubs and what they’ve spent their money on. Verifying their savings.
Program coordinators say clients could be a part of the program for up to 24-month, they say it’s a long-term investment, to help rehabilitate the homeless.
“They can either split equity or do what they need to do for the Habitat program. If they choose to rent, some choose to relocate. Whatever they need to do to move into permanent housing, that’s what his plan is going to help him incrementally do.”
They’re getting around half a million from Bell County.
The working with Killeen City leaders to secure matching contributions. | 2022-02-23T21:13:47Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/homeless-to-housed-program-to-help-rehabilitate-people | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/homeless-to-housed-program-to-help-rehabilitate-people |
Texas man pleads guilty for grocery store, knife attack on family
This Feb. 23, 2018 photo shows shoppers leaving a Sam's Club in Pittsburgh on Friday, Feb. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
A Texas man pleaded guilty after he attacked a family with knives at a grocery store because he believed they were "responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic."
The Justice Department said on Wednesday that 21-year-old Jose Gomez III, of Midland, pleaded guilty to three counts of committing a hate crime. According to documents filed with the plea, Gomez followed the family into a Sam’s Club Warehouse in Midland where he attacked the father and a six-year-old child with a knife.
"Gomez followed the Asian family in the store for several minutes because he perceived them to be a 'threat' as they were 'from the country who started spreading that disease around," said the DOJ release. "Gomez then momentarily left the family to find a serrated steak knife in the store."
Gomez returned to punch the father in the face with the blade in his hands, cutting his face. He then left the scene to return with an eight-inch knife.
"When Gomez returned, he abruptly went after B.C.’s two young children – then aged 6 and 2 years old – who were seated in the front basket of the shopping cart," said the Department of Justice. "Gomez slashed open the face of R.C., the then-six-year-old child. The blade entered millimeters from R.C.’s right eye, split his right ear, and wrapped around to the back of his skull."
Gomez then stabbed a Sam’s Club employee who intervened, and while being held down he yelled “Get out of America!” to the family, according to the DOJ.
"Gomez further admitted he had attempted to kill the 6-year-old child," said the DOJ release.
Racially motivated hate crimes have been rising in the Asian American community, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke.
"No one should be afraid to go shopping or feel like they could be targeted by an act of violence based on their race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, country of national origin, or immigration status,” said special agent in charge, Jeffrey Downey, of the FBI El Paso Field Office. “Acts of hate and racism have no place in our community and will not be tolerated. The FBI encourages people who have been victims or witnessed a hate crime to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.” | 2022-02-23T22:56:59Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-man-pleads-guilty-for-grocery-store-knife-attack-on-family | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-man-pleads-guilty-for-grocery-store-knife-attack-on-family |
'No one will be turned away': Waco Salvation Army serves as warming center
WACO, Texas — When winter weather hits Central Texas, the Salvation Army steps up to help vulnerable populations like those facing homelessness.
Their Waco shelter is now serving as a warming center and people are encouraged to stop by for a break from the cold.
"It's really important that individuals that normally may not go into a shelter to get warm, that they do that because the entire core of their body is going to lose temperature and they need to go somewhere to stay healthy," Commanding Officer Major Jim Taylor said.
During the day, the shelter will serve as a warming center with hot food and coffee. Then at night, they provide warm beds and blankets.
The Salvation Army staff said anyone is welcome and they hope that no one lets pride get in the way of asking for the help they need.
"That's why we're here. Don't be afraid to ask," Shelter Director Tim Wasion said. "If people didn't ask and show a need, there would be no reason for us to be here. We're here to help you. Swallow the pride. I've been there, I know how it feels. It's okay, just come."
With more people coming in for help, the shelter is also in need of more donations.
"Our expenses go up when we do things like this so obviously donations are needed as well," Major Taylor said. "Whether it's cash to help offset those expenses or physical donations like blankets, gloves, hats or even food."
The shelter is also always in need of personal hygiene items such as razors, toothpaste, shampoo, and conditioner. Those items can just be dropped at the shelter, they will be provided free of charge to their residents. | 2022-02-24T00:35:13Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/no-one-will-be-turned-away-waco-salvation-army-serves-as-warming-center | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/no-one-will-be-turned-away-waco-salvation-army-serves-as-warming-center |
In-Depth: Abbott blamed for high electric bills during 2021 freeze at Waco-based electric co-op's bankruptcy trial
HOUSTON — Bill Magness, the former head of the Texas power grid, testified in court Wednesday during a bankruptcy trial for Waco-based electric co-op Brazos Electric.
Bill Magness, President and CEO of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), testifies as the Committees on State Affairs and Energy Resources holds a joint public hearing to consider the factors that led to statewide electrical blackouts, Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, in Austin, Texas. The hearings were the first in Texas since a blackout that was one of the worst in U.S. history, leaving more than 4 million customers without power and heat in subfreezing temperatures. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
The Ex-ERCOT chief said he was following Gov. Greg Abbott's lead in running up billions of dollars in electric bills, according to a Houston Chronicle article.
As power plants were starting come back online, Magness said former Public Utility Commissioner Chairman DeAnn Walker told him Abbott wanted them to do whatever necessary to prevent further rotating blackouts that left millions of Texans without power.
Bill Magness, Ex- President and CEO of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT)
Charges were up to $9,000 per megawatt hour – more than 150 times normal prices.
Two people play in the snow in San Antonio, Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021. Snow and ice blanketed large swaths of the U.S. on Sunday, prompting canceled flights, making driving perilous and reaching into areas as far south as Texas’ Gulf Coast, where snow and sleet were expected overnight. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
Last year, a spokesperson for the governor told the Houston Chronicle Abbott wasn't
“involved in any way.”
Brazos says they have up to a $1.9 billion power bill from ERCOT that forced them into bankruptcy.
Credit: Shelby Tauber for The Texas Tribune
February's winter storm caused lawmakers to pass legislation requiring the state electrical grid to be weatherized to prevent another collapse.
The Houston Chronicle article says he explained how Walker had come to ERCOT's operations center during the crisis and told him Abbott's demand to end rotating blackouts.
Magness said he believed it was a risk, explaining even as powerplants were starting to come back online on Feb. 17, 2021, the system was far from secure. | 2022-02-24T00:35:37Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-abbott-blamed-for-high-electric-bills-during-freeze-at-waco-based-electric-co-ops-bankruptcy-trial | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-abbott-blamed-for-high-electric-bills-during-freeze-at-waco-based-electric-co-ops-bankruptcy-trial |
Boys & Girls Club opens brand new facility in Bryan
BRYAN, Texas — It’s a place where children can discover their passions, make new friendships, and receive mentorship that could change the course of their lives.
For generations, the Boys & Girls Club of the Brazos Valley has been serving Aggieland’s kids. This Tuesday, the doors were officially opened to their brand new location on Beck Street in Bryan.
“This is a full-size regulation gym, "said Rhonda Watson, CEO of BGCBV. "We have an art and design studio where we’re going to bring in painting, crocheting, whatever they’re interested in. And we’re going to really work with the kids on fulfilling whatever they’re interested in. We have a teen room, obviously the gym, a computer lab, and library.”
The old building on WJB Parkway has been in operation since 1964. The new building, the result of a ten-year and $5 million fundraising campaign, doubles the former property in size.
One major new feature is the kitchen, which will allow children not only to partake in cooking classes but will also facilitate meals for those children; something not offered at the old location.
"I grew up in the community. I grew up in the Boys & Girls Club from an early age," said Roderick “Coach Ghost” World Harris Jr., athletic director for BGCBV. "I’m a Boys & Girls Club kid. It was everything for me. It was how I started to socialize, and how I met a lot of my friends... A lot of the friends, we started out not liking each other from the other sides of town. It was an east side west side thing. But we just grew together.”
Harris’ introduction to football and basketball while playing at the old building in the 90s shaped him, starting him on his way to play college football in Kansas. Now, with the new facility, Harris wants to share the joys of his childhood with other kids, and open the doors to more sports than what was available before.
“We’re going to be doing a lot of things," he explained. "Even right now with basketball, we started with our basketball clinics, which allowed us to brand our basketball program. And we’re going to do the same thing for football, same thing for track. We’ll have cheerleading coming, and I've been tapping in with the schools to see if we can get some gymnastics going.”
Harris said that if children at the club aren’t interested in sports, he wants to be able to encourage them in their pursuits of cooking, art, theater – whatever it is that drives them and develops their character.
“I encourage every parent that’s out there too, even if your kid doesn’t want to play sports, that’s fine," Harris said. Sign them up, let’s get some tutoring going, let’s try to figure out what makes those kids tick because we’ve got a lot of opportunities.”
Anyone interested in volunteering or signing their child up for a membership can visit bgcbv.org. | 2022-02-24T03:46:23Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/boys-girls-club-opens-brand-new-facility-in-bryan | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/boys-girls-club-opens-brand-new-facility-in-bryan |
Killeen mayoral candidate to become mayor before election
KILLEEN, TX — The City of Killeen is going to get a new mayor but through a twist, it will happen before the election.
According to Killeen’s charter, any member of the city council running for another position, such as a council member running for mayor, must step down no less than 40 days prior to the election.
Killeen’s current mayor Jose Segarra has reached his term limit and has now filed to run for a seat on the city council.
This means he will have to step down and the Mayor Pro-tem will then become mayor of Killeen and that creates a unique scenario.
”Our Mayor has decided to run for city council and our Mayor Pro tem, who is our District 2 representative, has filed to run for Mayor,” said Mellisa Brown, Killeen City Council member.
Mayor Segarra said he plans to step down sooner rather than later.
”It’s going to be sometime between now and 40-days prior. I’ve got to look at the schedule. I want to make sure that there is nothing I need to be a part of because everything is important,” said Segarra.
This will make mayoral candidate Debbie Nash-King mayor before the election, effectively making her the incumbent mayor running for election.
Incumbent mayors in Killeen do not have to step down prior to the election and that is something the council is now looking into.
”We are looking at the charter now and determining how this works. It would all depend on when any resignations happen,” said Brown
If Debbie Nash-King becomes mayor prior to the 40-day deadline she will not have to step down to run for mayor.
The time she spends as mayor prior to the election will count as a full term as mayor. | 2022-02-24T03:46:29Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/killeen-mayoral-candidate-to-become-mayor-before-election | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/killeen-mayoral-candidate-to-become-mayor-before-election |
'I want people to prioritize their health' Copperas Cove teen thriving with a heart condition
Back in 2019, Angelica Torres had a heart loop monitor embedded in her chest, one of the first surgeries of its kind ever performed on a child in the U.S. Today, she is exceeding doctors' expectations and advocating for heart health.
Torres has a medical condition called Supraventricular Tachycardia. She was diagnosed at 2 years old.
"SVT means my heart rate moves faster than a normal person, and LVHT is because the left side of my heart is weaker due to the overworking of the SVT," said Torres.
After several unsuccessful surgeries as a child, she had surgery to insert a heart loop monitor. It has been in her chest, tracking her heart episodes every day for three years.
Torres said, "Overall, I have had a good experience with it it has helped me learn my body better. It connects to this device so if I have a heart episode doctors will be able to tell and track the reading so they can get further information. It depends but I normally use it up to five times a month."
A device the size of a thumb drive is helping her do what doctors said she couldn't.
"They told me I couldn't play sports. Now I'm on the Junior Varsity Lady Dawgs Volleyball team. It’s one of the best things in my life volleyball has been a big part of my life while growing up and it’s kept my heart healthy with working out. It makes me feel really good to know that I’ve overcome most of my challenges so far," Torres said.
Her heart loop monitor has a battery life of three years. She says it will be removed soon but after 3 years with the heart loop monitor, there are hours of data to sift through.
Dr. James Hoffman a Pediatric Cardiologist at Baylor Scott and White said, "With those types of symptoms diagnosing specifically what it is can often be very tricky because symptoms are brief. They may only happen for seconds, the way we diagnose them is by having an electrical tracing of the heart when they're symptomatic."
Hoffman said advancements in technology have helped but it is still a challenger diagnosing what is causing the accelerated heart rate.
"The next step is treatment when you have that diagnosis, the treatment part is really pretty straightforward," Hoffman said. "Like I said, in the majority of patients, it's curative."
As Torres anticipates her monitor removal, she still isn't slowing down.
"In a future time, I may be cured of my disease, but until then I'm working toward a better cause," said Torres.
She's diminishing out her reign as Teen Miss Fiver Hills, her platform Heart Health.
Torres has raised thousands with her Go Red for Women Fashion show advocating for heart health. | 2022-02-24T03:46:59Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/i-want-people-to-prioritize-their-health-copperas-cove-teen-thriving-with-a-heart-condition | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/i-want-people-to-prioritize-their-health-copperas-cove-teen-thriving-with-a-heart-condition |
2 Texas Mexican Mafia members on state's '10 Most Wanted Fugitives’ list captured
AUSTIN, Texas – Two members of the Texas Mexican Mafia, who were on the “Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives” list, have been arrested.
Arrested were Ruben Alvarado Castro, of San Antonio, and Theodore Villarreal, of Kenedy. Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid in both cases.
Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives are back in custody after their arrests last week. Ruben Alvarado Castro, of San Antonio, was arrested Feb. 15 in San Antonio, and Theodore Villarreal, of Kenedy, was arrested Feb. 17 in Kenedy. Both fugitives are members of the Texas Mexican Mafia. Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid in both arrests.
Ruben Alvarado Castro, 40, was arrested at a hotel by the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, including Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents. Castro was added to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List on Jan. 12.
Castro has been wanted since May 2021, when the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles issued a warrant for a parole violation. Later that month, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office also issued a warrant for aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury. In September 2021, the Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office issued a warrant for a probation violation.
In 2008, Castro was convicted of possession of a firearm after domestic abuse. He was sentenced in federal court to 80 months in prison with 36 months of supervised release, however, his supervised release was revoked multiple times. Castro was released from prison in 2017. In 2019, he was sentenced to three years in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) prison for fraudulent use/possession of identifying information. Castro was also given six years of probation for unlawful possession of a firearm and three years of probation for possession of a controlled substance. For more information, view his captured bulletin.
Theodore Villarreal, 52, was arrested at a house by the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, including DPS Special Agents. Members of DPS’ Commercial Vehicle Enforcement also assisted in his arrest. Villarreal was added to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive List on Jan. 20.
In 1987, Villarreal was sentenced to probation for burglary. That probation was revoked in 1990, and he was sentenced to eight years in a TDCJ prison. That same year Villarreal was convicted of burglary of a habitation and aggravated assault and was sentenced to 60 years in a TDCJ prison. He was released on parole in 2003. For more information, view his captured bulletin. | 2022-02-24T18:34:40Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/2-texas-mexican-mafia-members-on-states-10-most-wanted-fugitives-list-captured | https://www.kxxv.com/news/2-texas-mexican-mafia-members-on-states-10-most-wanted-fugitives-list-captured |
SportsBaylor Bears
WACO, Texas — Before he ever took the Ferrell Center floor in Waco, Baylor guard Jared Butler's basketball dreams were almost dashed by a stunning diagnosis.
Before his freshman season at the University of Alabama, Butler met with school doctors and trainers who revealed he actually suffered from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a genetic heart condition which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. The diagnosis caught Butler off guard, because he had never noticed any symptoms stemming from the condition.
"It was just scary because I didn't know what it was," Butler said. "I didn't know what it would mean for my basketball career. Would I still be able to continue to play?"
Shortly after his diagnosis, Butler transferred to Baylor University to join Scott Drew and the Bears. Over the next few months, he continued to undergo testing to further understand the severity of his newfound condition.
Doctors encouraged his mother, Juanea, to get tested as well. They then determined she had been the silent, asymptomatic carrier of the HCM-causing gene Jared had inherited.
"I was totally in denial because I had no idea what this was," Juanea said. "I had never heard of it. We had no family history behind it, so we were clueless."
That fear and anxiety slowly subsided over the following months, as Jared and Juanea learned more about the symptoms associated with HCM, including shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat and dizziness. Jared said he rarely experienced any symptoms and he rarely, if ever, had to change his basketball routine.
Jared says he considers himself lucky.
An estimated 1 in 200 to 1 in 500 people in the U.S. deal with HCM, although many go through life undiagnosed. HCM is the most common genetic heart disease.
While doctors told him he would be okay, in the early stages after his diagnosis, Butler said he felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness and fear surrounding his condition. He said there were no advocates for HCM awareness he could turn to for reassurance.
"The first few weeks I was extremely hopeless, so I would've loved to have somebody as open and informative about this condition," Butler said.
In his time at Baylor, Butler played in 94 games for the Bears, scoring more that 1300 points and leading them to their first national championship. Butler eventually achieved his dream of playing in the NBA, when he was drafted by the Utah Jazz.
Now, he hopes he can be a voice of encouragement and reassurance for other kids who may be dealing with a similar diagnosis.
"My role is definitely to be a light for people who might be going through the same thing I experienced at 17 years old, learning that I have this condition and not knowing anyone else with this condition. So I just really want to be a model, a trailblazer for anyone that's looking for information," Butler said.
His message is simple.
"Your story is not over at your diagnosis. It's just the beginning."
Feburary 23 was HCM Awareness Day. Those dealing with symptoms associated with HCM should talk with their doctors and visit the site CouldItBeHCM.com for more information. | 2022-02-24T22:04:01Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/sports/baylor-bears/its-just-the-beginning-butler-overcomes-heart-condition-to-fulfill-nba-dreams | https://www.kxxv.com/sports/baylor-bears/its-just-the-beginning-butler-overcomes-heart-condition-to-fulfill-nba-dreams |
Resources for those in need of shelter during this freeze
Scripps Only Content
As we deal with the bitter cold in Central Texas, concerns rise for people who don't have a place to stay or have lost power.
William Hall, Director of Operations, Families in Crisis said, “… we have a shelter here, there is a homeless shelter in Temple… the warming shelters are also open.”
Families in Crisis of Killeen and other warming centers will be open 24 hours a day until this cold weather passes. Medical professionals share the dangers of staying outside in these low temperatures.
Amy Mersiovsky, Director & Chair, Department of Nursing with Texas A& M Central Texas said, “You can get hypothermia, it can just start off as shivering and that makes you burn more energy, it also causes neurological deficits it can go into affecting the heart and respiratory system.”
For that reason, medical professionals say if you need to go to, go to a shelter. They also recommend wearing the appropriate clothing- like hats, gloves, socks, and jackets to keep your body temperature regulated. | 2022-02-24T23:42:39Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/resources-for-those-in-need-of-shelter-during-this-freeze | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/resources-for-those-in-need-of-shelter-during-this-freeze |
Co-founder of Brazos Valley African American Museum dies
BRYAN, Texas — In just the span of one month, the Brazos Valley African American Museum has lost two of its greatest influences, with the passing of curator Oliver Wayne Sadberry Jr. and now the death of co-founder Willie Pruitt.
“Unexpected, and indescribable- that's what the feeling is," said Barry Davis, board member with the museum. "But it still gives us a feeling of hope, knowing that he's is in a good place, and he’s where the good lord would want him to be at this time.”
Willie Pruitt passed away on Sunday at the age of 92. Willie and his wife Mell Ruth are credited with founding the museum in 1999. Mell had long been collecting artifacts significant to the local black community, storing these items in their home. As she and Willie were both educators, the couple sought to provide the Bryan-College Station community with a connection to important aspects of their history.
“[Willie] used to always like to talk to different [tour] groups and tell them about picking cotton and how they did it because he did it," Davis said. "And it was something he wanted to share and pass along. School groups and things like that, when they came in here, they were always fascinated by it. And he just loved doing that.”
Mell passed away in 2009, and as Willie aged, his role at the museum became more relaxed. But, he never stopped contributing.
Now that several key leaders of the museum have passed, it’s up to the next generation of board members and volunteers to ensure that the Pruitt family’s vision to educate and preserve history continues to be realized.
“The history here is important, and [so is] connecting that with future generations, so that they understand what people have accomplished here in the Brazos Valley," said Crystal Carter, BVAAM board member and former executive director.
Staff expressed that they are confident in what tomorrow will hold, hopeful of younger generations to carry on as preservers of history. Davis said he believes Willie’s spirit is with them.
“Hey now, if I had some shades, I’d put some shades on, because the future is bright," Davis asserted. "You know what I mean?"
The BVAAM is hosting a public viewing for Willie Pruitt at the museum from noon to 6 p.m. this Friday. The community is invited to come and pay their respects. Entry to the museum is temporarily free for the remainder of Black History Month, thanks to donor support. | 2022-02-25T02:58:11Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/co-founder-of-brazos-valley-african-american-museum-dies | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/co-founder-of-brazos-valley-african-american-museum-dies |
Controversial abortion ban at 6 weeks hit Texas Supreme Court
WACO, TX — That highly contentious Texas abortion ban took center stage in court Thursday, Feb. 24.
The Texas Supreme Court heard testimony from both sides. March first will mark six months since the heartbeat bill went into effect. It effectively bans abortions after that six-week mark.
There's been a lot of movement... The U.S. Supreme Court sent the law back to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals because it was partially overturned. The 5th Circut Court then sent it to the Texas Supreme Court for more clarity.
Advocates on both sides are fighting for "what is right." Kathleen Pittman, an abortion provider in Louisiana said this Texas-based conflict has crossed state lines.
"The amount of control the State of Texas has over these women is horrific," Pittman said. "Prior to September, 18 percent of the patients we saw were from Texas. By October we went to 55 percent. By November and December, we were 60 to 70 percent."
Across the aisle, Mary Castle with Texas Values and an advocate for Senate Bill 8 said regardless the law is making an impact.
"We are seeing more and more women choosing life and coming to the awareness that a heartbeat is an indicator of life," Castle said.
There is a question about the effectiveness of SB8. Is the bill working to protect life?
"The bill is very effective and if you look at resource centers, they saw a large increase in the State of Texas. Heartbeat international actually saw a 40 percent increase," Castle said.
Another factor playing into the debate, abortion-inducing pills sent by mail.
During the second special session in late 2021, SB 4 passed making that medication illegal in the State of Texas. But the same philosophy of, "if there is a will there is a way," still comes to the forefront.
Some people are setting up P.O boxes in bordering states then bringing those pills in. | 2022-02-25T02:58:17Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/controversial-abortion-ban-at-6-weeks-hit-texas-supreme-court | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/controversial-abortion-ban-at-6-weeks-hit-texas-supreme-court |
Fort Hood troops ready if called to assist NATO allies
FORT HOOD, TX — With Russia officially invading Ukraine, militaries around the world are bracing for potential conflict beyond Ukrainian Borders.
Today President Biden announced further sanctions following the overnight invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces but, he also announced additional troops movements to assist NATO allies in Europe.
”As I made crystal clear, the United States will defend every inch of NATO territory with the full force of American power," said Biden.
Several weeks ago, 8,500 troops across the country, including some at Fort Hood, were put on heightened alert to be ready to deploy.
Now some of them have been told they are heading to Europe.
”I am authorizing additional U.S. force capabilities to deploy to Germany as part of NATO’s response. Including, some of the U.S. based forces the Department of Defense placed on standby weeks ago.” said Biden.
As of now, Fort Hood troops have not received orders to deploy but they are ready at a moment's notice.
Just as former Army Staff Sergeant Mark Bauer was after 9/11.
”We’re trained for this right. Every great civilization like ours, has to have brave men and women ready to stand in the gap, and right now, that gap is shortening.” said Mark Bauer, former Army Staff Sergeant stationed at Fort Hood.
It is now a stressful waiting game, waiting to get told you’re shipping out.
”It’s a mind full of, is everything ready. Am I ready, is my equipment ready, are my soldiers ready, but there is also, is my family-ready,” said Bauer.
Bauer is no longer a soldier on standby but he has a message for those who are.
”Fort Hood as a whole, as a community, we’re going to support your families. We're going to be here for you and we just want you to come home safe, but in order for you to do that, you have to concentrate on the mission. So, stay focused, stay alive, stay alert and we’ll see you when you get home,” said Bauer.
Fort Hood units have not yet been ordered to deploy but Biden made clear that if they are ... they will not be fighting Russia in Ukraine. | 2022-02-25T02:58:29Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/fort-hood-troops-ready-if-called-to-assist-nato-allies | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/fort-hood-troops-ready-if-called-to-assist-nato-allies |
The El Paso County Sheriff's office said Roberto Hugo Alvarez failed to report to the sheriff's department within the specified time.
Alvarez is a registered sex offender who was convicted on two counts of indecency with a child/contact. The sheriff's office said the victim was a 15-year-old girl at the time of the offense.
"He is now wanted for Sex Offender's Duty to Register Life/90 Days," said the sheriff's office. "He also violated his conditions of Probation, therefore the El Paso County Community Supervision and Corrections Department issued a Motion to Revoke warrant out of the 41st District Court." | 2022-02-25T02:58:35Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-man-convicted-for-indecency-with-a-child-wanted | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-man-convicted-for-indecency-with-a-child-wanted |
Located right next to the University of Texas campus-- you might think this 1856 greek revival is a frat house— it’s not! Since 1958, the Neill Cochran house has been lovingly cared for by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of Texas.
A painting by mode walker, right by the front door tells the story of the bluebonnet as the state flower.
"We have learned that she was the daughter of a judge, Moses Walker, who came to Texas as part of the reconstruction government," said retired Baylor art history professor Karen Pope.
Pope also chairs the Neill Cochran house museum.
"Moses Walker lived with his family in this house in the early 1870s," said Pope. "So, Mode Walker, who painted this picture, must have lived here as a child.”
In 1901, state lawmakers were choosing between the bluebonnet, the prickly pear, or the cotton boll as the official state flower.
"And Colonial Dames here in Austin thought the bluebonnet was the clear choice and decided to share that opinion by making a visit to the state capitol," said Pope. "They took this painting with them in the spring of 1901, and it was displayed in the capitol on the day of the deliberations, and the Dames put little vases of bluebonnets on the desks of the legislators, and the bluebonnet was chosen as the state flower of Texas.”
The Neill Cochran house was designed by master builder Abner Cook, who also built the nearby governor’s mansion. It features elegant furnishings ... no doubt the site of lavish parties with the movers and shakers of Texas politics. Executive director, Dr. Rowena Dasch says it’s a real study in antebellum or pre-civil war architecture.
"My favorite space in the house is probably our upstairs rotating exhibit gallery because we've actually been able to open it up and you can see the original stone walls,” said Rowena Dasch.
Dr. Dasch says Texas Dames believes the key to the future is understanding our past—even the dark and tragic aspects of our past. At the Neill Cochran house, you will find Austin's only remaining slave quarters.
"That structure would have housed the people who built this house while it was under construction," said Dasch. "Now we're talking about 1856 we're talking about before the civil war. So that means enslaved labor in 1860. Most people who live in Austin today don't know that we were only a town of 6000 people really small and 2000 of them were enslaved. So, one-third of our population. So, it gives you a little bit of a different understanding of how our city came to be what it is. If you can actually look at the walls and put your hands in the same places that these highly skilled artisans put their hands as they were building these structures.”
The Neill Cochran house museum—telling the whole story of the early days in the state’s capital.
“It's also a way of giving voice and giving credence to the efforts and the artistry and the really the spirit and soul of the people who are a part of this city whose stories have really not been told.” | 2022-02-25T04:34:33Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/traveling-texas-with-ann-harder/texas-history-preserved-through-the-neill-cochran-house | https://www.kxxv.com/news/traveling-texas-with-ann-harder/texas-history-preserved-through-the-neill-cochran-house |
AMBER ALERT: 11-month-old girl abducted in Fort Worth
FORT WORTH, Texas — An AMBER ALERT has been issued for an 11-month-old girl who was abducted after being last seen late Thursday in the 135000 block of Little River Road in Fort Worth.
Suspect in the abduction of Harmony Rodriguez is Lancelot Dawkins, 26, described as a black male with brown eyes, 6-foot-2, 150 pounds.
Harmony Rodriguez is described as a black female who was last seen wearing a yellow and brown onesie.
Police are searching for a white Jeep Wrangler with black trim and black steps. | 2022-02-25T14:08:20Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/amber-alert-11-month-old-girl-abducted-in-fort-worth | https://www.kxxv.com/news/amber-alert-11-month-old-girl-abducted-in-fort-worth |
Don't move to Texas, Unless....
Realtor shares pluses, minuses of Lone Star State
A realtor shares insights on Texas
WACO, TX — A well-known, family run clothing store, operated under the motto "An educated consumer is our best Customer" for many years.
Now, a Texas Real Estate agent has adopted the slogan as a moderating influence balancing out two groups, one which wants to carry out a "quest to keep Californians out of Texas" and others, who keep encouraging their arrival.
The most recent Texas relocation report from Texas Realtors for 2021, shows, , the Republic attracted more than half a million new residents for the 7th year in a row.
Once again,no surprise most came from California, with healthy contributions from a handful of other sates. But all this movement halfway across the continent got attention of Realtor Richard Soto.
The pandemic had apparently quickened the pace of relocation some, leading to some cases of a kind of "buyers remorse" from some who, maybe didn't do quite as much homework before moving as others.
"Texas isn't for everyone and in this video we're going to discuss why you might not want to move to Texas" said Richard Soso, of VIP Realty in his video on YouTube.
His answer? well, he already had a series of real estate videos online, so he thought, instead of tell newly-minted Texans how the cow at the cabbage.., he'd show them.
"Texas is very flat and boring. You might get a little bit of a culture shock, and that is the Western attire. Pretty much on a daily basis, you'll see people wearing big cowboy hats, giant belt buckles and massive cowboy boots. Let's go ahead and get this one out of the way right now. If you don't like guns, you might as well not come" said Soto.
In just a few months, his video, got more than a quarter of a million views.
Mr. Soto's video describes north Texas pretty well... but as Killeen Mayor... and fellow Realtor Jose Segarra points out, The Republic of Texas brings what you might call, several "states" together under one convenient roof.
Why not start with North Texas? it features a kind of mini state people quizzically call "Texoma".... quizzically untl you look a t a map that is. There's another "oma" ova by Texarcana .That one, they call the Ark La Tex.... get it?
Every body knows about East Texas. Some say the Houston, Sugar Land, Katy Beaumont area earned it's place at the table. West Texas still has a clear identity thanks to its many oil wells that grease the skids of commerce... Then, there's "The Valley" where shifting populations meet shifting politics.
"So there's a lot of pluses here. I think my job from the mayor's perspective in the real estate company has always been to try to sell our community in a positive way." said Segarra.
But even though the Republic features "States within a State".... Kevin Hall... whose ancestors sided with Steve Austin, Sam Houston and others to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico, ...says that tough-talkin, never give up, can-do spirit, remains the same from one end of the lone state to the other, some 800 miles away.
Hall Says, if you buy into the whole "Texas Mystique" not just the hats, boots and belt buckles, but the hard work and the sacrifice part of it.. Texas will still lead the way... One Republic... under God... Indivisible.. with liberty and justice for all.
"No matter where they come from, where they are and where they're going, whether you are a Texan tried and true, or you've been here a day, honestly, it's about the attitude and it's about being friendly, which is the Texas way". he said.
Richard Soto says, "Amen" to that. He said sharing both sides of The Texas coin, and sharing it on what he calls the "second largest search engine". has actually brought in more business.
"I shared the video with my office staff and they said Richard, this is probably a bad idea. A lot of Texans are going to be really mad but I love Texas and this is how i really feel."
But if you check out where he's doing it, you'll find He's telling tails on Texas... from Miami
"Yeah, that's a little weird, said fellow Realtor and Mayor of Killeen, Jose Segarra.
Listen to Soto's take on Texas... from the sandy beaches of South Florida.
"Texas is very flat. The landscape is boring. You'll get a little bit of a culture shock and that is the Western attire. Let's go ahead and get this one out of the way right now. If you don't like guns, you might as well not bother coming to Texas. So another reason you might not want to move to Texas is the weather during the summer it gets extremely hot."
"Flat? HAH! Once you get past cities like McGregor or Killeen, you'll find the landscape filled with hills. It's not exactly The Rockies, but it's scenic. Hot? Friday morning's temperature was a cool 27 degrees.
One thing Florida and Texas in common... constant change.
What do they think of Soto's soliloquy in Sunny South Florida?
Lisa Gelfand grew up in Miami,the daughter of a world-famous broadcaster.
She says, when she heard Soto, she thought he was talking ABOUT Miami.
"If I didn't know any better, I would say that he's talking about South Florida," said Gelfand, a Miami Native.
"I was laughing and it's quite puzzling, to be honest I could definitely understand that Miami has become a really wonderful place if you know the right places to go, you know the safe places to go," she said.
"If you're a native you know you know where to go, but if you're a tourist and you don't you can be in trouble," she explained.
Something several cities in Texas share... which brings us back to the meaning of being a Texan.
Kevin Hall's family goes back in Texas to the Declaration of independence from Mexico so he knows something about that.
" I would say, the main thing, of course, Texas represents independence, so if you're waiting on someone else's opinion and tell you whether you're like Texas or not, you probably won't because Texas is about you, having the right to choose," said the son of the Republic.
And with more people taking Texas every day, Soto says Keeping it real, and keeping it Texan is good for business.
I feel like when people choose Texas they choose freedom. That's what I think of Texas. Texas is a symbol of Freedom.
And he says Helping prospective Texans learn about every aspect of life here, helps us all. | 2022-02-25T17:48:50Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/25-investigates/dont-move-to-texas-unless | https://www.kxxv.com/news/25-investigates/dont-move-to-texas-unless |
Madison County update on missing person case
MADISON COUNTY, Texas — The Madison County Sheriff's Office arrested and charged two people in connection to Megan Martinez's murder. The young woman went missing earlier this month.
”Megan was last seen driving off with a passenger in the car belonging to 27-year-old Amber Garrett the vehicle was located and searched by Madison County sheriff's office and the Texas Rangers, Items in the vehicle led law enforcement to believe someone was injured in the vehicle,” said Sheriff Bobby Adams, Madison County Sheriff.
Community Members' tips were critical in finding surveillance videos that provided clues to find Martinez.
”The sheriff's office did receive a lot of information from a variety of sources and when you have a missing person and you don’t know the circumstances any information is good information,” said Chuck Fleeger, Amber Alert Network of the Brazos Valley director.
Ultimately this information led investigators to two people of interest.
“Megan's body was recovered by the Madison County sheriff's office and the Texas Rangers," added Sheriff Adams. "An inquest was ordered, and Megan was transported to the University of North Texas Autopsy,”
Martinez's body was found in a national forest, near forest service road 207.
”Yudon is cooperating with the investigation through his help we were able to find the body and recover Megan and we’ve been able to move forward with charges,” shared Steven Jeter, Madison County chief deputy.
Amber Garrett has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Yudon Allen has also been arrested and charged with fabricating evidence. Both are in the Madison County Sheriff's office jail.
“Don’t like to use the word closure but get the family answers as to what happened to their loved one and now they can move onto that next step in the process,” added Fleeger.
Garrett has a 1.5-Million-Dollar bond, meanwhile, although Allen is cooperating with law enforcement he has been arrested with no bond. Agencies are still conducting investigations but have only made these arrests so far. | 2022-02-25T23:00:06Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/madison-county-update-on-missing-person-case | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/madison-county-update-on-missing-person-case |
Waco native, military hero Ira Walton dies at age 99
A Waco native and military hero who served in three wars throughout 30-years of service died on Thursday at age 99.
Ira Walton earned two bronze stars in his military career but also collected numerous medals while playing table tennis at the National Veterans Golden Age Games. According to Walton's daughter, he passed peacefully at Ascension Providence Hospital.
When he got the draft notice for World War II Walton was making ladies' hats in Waco, according to Vantage Point. He was one of the first African Americans to fly a plane in combat.
"As we mourn his earthly departure, our hearts rejoice in honor of a life well-lived," said family member, LaQuinta Renae Pollard on Friday. "He loved his family and this country, serving both with great pride and joy. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him."
Pollard said details on a memorial service will be addressed in the coming days.
Details regarding a memorial service will be communicated in the coming days.
"Thank you in advance for your prayers, kind words, and warm thoughts during our time of bereavement," said Pollard on behalf of Walton's children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. | 2022-02-26T00:38:05Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/waco-native-military-hero-ira-walton-dies-at-age-99 | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/waco-native-military-hero-ira-walton-dies-at-age-99 |
In a statement, Granbury police said officers made the welfare check Thursday afternoon. All four people were fatally shot and police suspect they died in a murder-suicide. Police identified them as Marcus Buchanan, 36; Rita Buchanan, 34; and two girls, ages 13 and 3.
"There was evidence at the scene that was consistent with a murder/suicide, but the final determination has yet to be concluded as this is still an active investigation," said Granbury police. | 2022-02-26T02:12:23Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/police-find-2-adults-2-children-dead-in-north-texas-home | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/police-find-2-adults-2-children-dead-in-north-texas-home |
Russian attacks cause distress, fear in Aggieland's Ukrainian and Russian communities
BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas — Texas A&M faculty members Dr. Artem Rogovskyy and his wife Yulia Rogovskyy couldn't make it into the office on Thursday. The two native Ukrainians remained home from campus, horrified at the online communication from both sets of their parents.
Artem's mother in Kiev was so frightened by the sounds of missiles around her home, she was pale and shaking while speaking to her son. Miles north, near Chernobyl, Yulia's parents hid in their basement as they awaited Friday night's military conflict.
Dr. Rogovskyy noted that many Ukrainians are joining volunteer territorial defense forces.
“AK-47s are being handed to civilians to protect the city," he said. "... I wish I were there. Because by nature I can’t just sit by and wait.”
Ukrainian and Russian academics have been drawn to Aggieland for decades; several of whom attend the only local Russian Orthodox congregation, Life-Giving Spring of the Mother of God, located near downtown Bryan. Parish priest, Father Cassian Sibley, shared that many in his parish are hurting and stressed by the invasion, and not all can agree on the same point.
“Because we are a Russian Orthodox Church abroad, we actually commemorate [Russian] patriarchal rule, and some Ukrainians already found that intolerable," Sibley noted. "... We already had that with a couple of people, and I’m sure this is only going to make that worse.”
Dr. Rogovskyy, though he maintains a friendship with Sibley, left the Bryan church years back, because he strongly disagreed with Russian members on matters concerning his home country. Rogovskyy now feels religiously isolated in Texas and said that the only other Russian Orthodox church he knows within hundreds of miles, prays for the Russian military. Additionally, he stated that the Russian Orthodox communities he's encountered in the U.S. refuse to refer to the violence in Ukraine as a war.
“[Russia] invaded the Lugansk and Donetsk regions, and after that I said, we can’t really pray for Russian forces in that church," he said.
Ultimately, Rogovskyy wishes his new home, the United States, would follow through on the Budapest Memorandum, and 'blacken the sky' over Ukraine.
“The U.S. And U.K. have to ensure that no jets, no military helicopters, will come and bombard or shell Ukrainian cities," he stressed.
For Father Cassian, he expressed that though his church hierarchy may struggle on their position about Russian action, he does not.
“I think it’s unjust," Sibley stated. "It’s an offensive war, and orthodox theology really does not provide any kind of justification for wars of aggression."
Sibley's congregation is collecting money to be used towards Ukrainian relief efforts. To make a donation, connect with The Life-Giving Spring of the Mother of God on Facebook:
The Life-Giving Spring of the Mother of God Russian Orthodox Church | Facebook
Nonprofit UNICEF USA is also taking donations for children affected by the Ukrainian conflict: | 2022-02-26T03:49:21Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/russian-attacks-cause-distress-fear-in-aggielands-ukrainian-and-russian-communities | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/russian-attacks-cause-distress-fear-in-aggielands-ukrainian-and-russian-communities |
Texas A&M students train for mass casualties
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas A&M health trains hundreds of students during the 14th annual disaster in college station. Giving students a real-world look at a mass casualty response.
There are 750 Texas A&M students participating in disaster day, right now we’re in the triage center where they’re actively responding to students' injuries.
Texas A&M student Justin Dugie was previously an officer in the army before attending A&M's medical school.
”I had a lot of prior experience of coordinating and resourcing people and putting them where they need to go," said Justin Dugie, Texas A&M med students and incident commander. "A lot of times it felt like a crisis manager,”
The disaster simulated a wildfire and Dugie’s main responsibility was to coordinate the medical response.
“You can see people are working together and communicating with each other," added Dugie. "It’s not just nurses talking to nurses, you have the nurse talking with the pharmacist, who’s talking with the doctor, who’s talking with the psychiatrist."
All students from the school of nursing, pharmacy, and corps cadets just to name a few utilized the element of surprise to train students.
“You never know when it’s going to hit and you never know how it’s going to hit, so the surprise really helps because it simulates that feeling as best as you can,” explained Dugie.
” Hands-on experiential learning sticks with students more so than book learning or classroom learning and today's the day they get to put those skills to practice,” said Gerard Carrino, department head and instructional professor for Texas A&M health science.
Each year Texas A&M health simulates a new disaster laid across the 60 acres offered at the training facility.
“Our students are very fortunate to have TEEX disaster city here so that they can practice in a real-world location that simulates a disaster extremely well,” said Carrino. | 2022-02-26T03:49:24Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/texas-a-m-students-train-for-mass-casualties | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/texas-a-m-students-train-for-mass-casualties |
Kids X-Pression Learning Center closing its doors for good after 14 years
Photo by: (Photo by Darren Hauck/Getty Images)
One-third of the U.S. workforce has a child under age 14 in their household. During the pandemic, things have changed this includes the way schools and childcare businesses can operate.
Finding a safe haven for your child is usually a top priority of most parents. Kids X-pression Learning Center in Killeen has been known in the community for providing that type of environment.
Cynthia Byars, a mom in Killeen described the daycare learning center as, “It’s a home its home away from home, he learned here, he grew up here, he plays here and it's hard to leave.”
She said its hard for parents and kids to leave but even harder for the director of Kids X-Pression Learning Center to close doors after 14 years.
The director and owner, Anthony Vaughters said, “…there’s been a combination of reasons for us closing but what’s going on with COVID is the main source, COVID not only hits a business in a financial aspect but in a health aspect emotionally... it's taxing on staff children and families.”
In a study done by Harvard Business Review, nearly two-thirds of parents in the U.S. had difficulty finding childcare during the pandemic - 33 percent found it very difficult.
Vaughters says he's doing his part by referring parents to other reputable daycares in Bell County. Unfortunately because of the current reality he is closing his doors for good. | 2022-02-26T03:49:24Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/kids-x-pression-learning-center-closing-its-doors-for-good-after-14-years | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/kids-x-pression-learning-center-closing-its-doors-for-good-after-14-years |
EXCLUSIVE: 'Newsy' reporter in Poland shares journey out of Ukraine
WACO, Texas — 'Newsy' reporter Jason Bellini has been a journalist for the last 25 years, but it's his current assignment that's been unlike any other.
"I mean it's just so monumental what's happening," he told 25 News via Zoom. "One of the biggest stories of our lifetime if you think about it."
He spent the last two weeks in eastern Europe following the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
"I'm working like a dog, you know," Bellini said. "It's 16 hour days, really, but that's what you sign up for when you do this kind of thing."
Bellini stayed in Lviv, Ukraine until the recent Russian attack, then he made his way to Poland with hundreds of other refugees.
"People are getting out of there," he said. "Once it really dawned on people that we're being invaded and we don't know when the power is going to go out and we can't be confident of anything anymore."
Ukrainian men are not able to leave the country in case they are needed to fight, but women and children spent the last few days making their way to safety.
"Some of these folks they walked on foot," Bellini said. "They took a taxi to the border than from there they had to work 9 kilometers, like 5 or 6 miles. They had to walk that length just to get to the border to cross over."
Now he will work closely with those refugees to share their stories during this difficult time as the viewers continue to watch on from the United States. | 2022-02-26T03:49:41Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/exclusive-newsy-reporter-in-poland-shares-journey-out-of-ukraine | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/exclusive-newsy-reporter-in-poland-shares-journey-out-of-ukraine |
WACO, Texas — As No. 10-ranked Baylor Men's Basketball prepares to take on No. 5 Kansas Saturday night, hundreds of Baylor students spent the night inside the Ferrell Center to be at the front of the line for tickets.
ESPN's College GameDay also returned to Waco for the big game and will broadcast starting at 10 a.m. This is the third time the show has come to Waco.
"We're not watching it from the TV. Not for College GameDay," said Baylor student Christine McNamara, who waited outside the Ferrell Center for four hours with her friends before camping out inside.
The Ferrell Center opened its doors to students at 9 p.m. and closed at midnight. Any students who spent the night at the "lock-in" were given first access to tickets for Saturday's game.
"You gotta support your team. We're not losing to Kansas, so we gotta see it," she said.
McNamara was one of the hundreds of dedicated fans that filled the center with sleeping bags, blankets and snacks.
"We gotta be here. Like it's the biggest game," said Baylor student Kiera Lee. "I feel like it's a part of college. Doing crazy stuff that you wouldn't normally do."
Students who participated were provided free breakfast on Sunday morning and were given access to the College GameDay set to watch the broadcast.
Other students who are looking for tickets will be able to get them from the Ferrell Center's student ticket line starting at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday. | 2022-02-26T18:27:27Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/baylor-students-spend-night-in-ferrell-center-as-espns-college-gameday-comes-to-campus | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/baylor-students-spend-night-in-ferrell-center-as-espns-college-gameday-comes-to-campus |
(McLennan County Jail Department)
BEVERLY HILLS, Texas — Beverly Hills Mayor LucyAnn Sanchez-Miramontez has been arrested on charges of abuse of official capital greater than $100, according to McLennan County Jail records.
She was booked into the McLennan County Jail and later released on a $1,000 surety bond.
Earlier this year, the former chief of police at the Beverly Hills Police Department was arrested and charged with felony theft.
Thomas Schmidt faces between two and 10 years in prison for the third-degree felony.
He was fired for "personal issues" that were unrelated to the felony theft, said the Beverly Hills Police Department.
Beverly Hills is a city in McLennan County with roughly 2,000 residents. | 2022-02-26T23:13:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/police-mayor-of-beverly-hills-arrested-on-capital-abuse | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/police-mayor-of-beverly-hills-arrested-on-capital-abuse |
(Mollie Jamison/Howard Center for Investigative Journalism)
Texas Railroad Commissioners Wayne Christian, left, and Jim Wright presides over a public meeting on Oct. 26, 2021, in Austin, Texas. Christian said negative media reports obscure the good job the commission does to support a cleaner environment. Over much of the last decade, oil and gas operators in Texas and a dozen other U.S. states have flared, or burned off, at least 3.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, according to an analysis of satellite data by the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism.
“No one has any reason to put methane into the air for beneficial purposes,” said Kleinberg. | 2022-02-26T23:13:15Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/actual-greenhouse-gas-volumes-exceed-official-reports | https://www.kxxv.com/news/actual-greenhouse-gas-volumes-exceed-official-reports |
'Braving the ice': Dedicated runners face the weather to help fund scholarships
BRYAN, Texas — After pressing pause on events due to the pandemic, the Hispanic Forum brought back their annual 5k run to raise money for education.
Kiddos like Ezra Medrano knows the importance of who he was running for Saturday.
He says ”Education is important, because if you don’t have education than you can’t do a lot of stuff,”
Runners of all ages braved the cold and rainy conditions in support of education for future generations.
“It’s about instilling this in our younger generations to come out here, participate, take part, and know what it’s about,” said Maria Hoffman, Hispanic Forum president.
But it’s been two years since the Hispanic Forum has been able to cross the finish line.
”This is our 8th annual 5k run for education and the last time we had it was in 2019 and of course COVID push back a lot of things," said Andrea Robles, Hispanic Forum vice president.
"This is the first time since the start of the pandemic that we’ve been able to put on this race,”
They’re bringing the community together once again to continue supporting their mission.
”It's super exciting and we're super happy just to see everyone come together for yet another one of our events and especially on this beautiful, glorious day," said Hoffman.
"We're so thankful to all that participated and braved the cold,”
Committee members shared that with the help of community sponsors like the Carlson Law Firm, Yaniss Saldivar Realty, and the American Red Cross, the return of the 5k run was a success.
Now, the organization looks ahead to its big final fundraiser of the year.
“I think it was the best we could have expected," said Robles.
"Thankfully, the rain held off for just long enough for the runners to get here and complete the race,”
Last year, the Hispanic Forum awarded $151,000 for graduating high school seniors.
Its 12th annual golf tournament will be their last chance to raise money for scholarships. | 2022-02-27T01:21:08Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/braving-the-ice-dedicated-runners-face-the-weather-to-help-fund-scholarships | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/braving-the-ice-dedicated-runners-face-the-weather-to-help-fund-scholarships |
(U.S. Customs and Border Protection via AP)
“This was not only a clever attempt to try and smuggle in narcotics, one I haven’t seen before, but also time-consuming to wrap narcotics into these small packages, designed to look like onions,” said Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego, in the news release. “While we have certainly seen narcotics in produce before, it’s unusual for us to see this level of detail in the concealment.” | 2022-02-27T03:22:56Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/authorities-seize-nearly-3m-worth-of-meth-in-onion-shipment | https://www.kxxv.com/news/authorities-seize-nearly-3m-worth-of-meth-in-onion-shipment |
Sunny afternoon ahead
CENTRAL TEXAS — Happy Sunday! Warmer temperatures on the way this afternoon. We will start off with a bit of a cloudy start but sunshine will slowly start to come out heading into the afternoon hours with highs in the 50s. We will remain dry over the next few days with temperatures rising to the 60s and 70s.
This warming trend will continue throughout the rest of the week with some rain chances arriving later in the week heading into the weekend. The first showers may arrive by Friday but the better chances of rain look to be on Saturday and next Monday. It could come with some thunder as well. | 2022-02-27T17:29:12Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/sunny-afternoon-ahead | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/sunny-afternoon-ahead |
(Sergei Karpukhin/Pool Photo via AP, File)
FILE - Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov walk past honor guards as they attend a ceremony to receive diplomatic credentials from newly appointed foreign ambassadors at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018. In the wake of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, U.S. sanctions are targeting Putin and a handful of individuals believed to be among his closest security advisers, including Lavrov. | 2022-02-27T20:39:15Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/us-sanctions-on-russian-oligarchs-miss-richest-of-rich | https://www.kxxv.com/news/us-sanctions-on-russian-oligarchs-miss-richest-of-rich |
(Sergei Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)
In addition to his strategic nuclear force, Putin has at least a couple thousand so-called non-strategic nuclear weapons, such as shorter-range ballistic and cruise missiles. They are called nonstrategic because they cannot reach U.S. territory. But that is little comfort for the countries in Europe that are within range of those weapons. The United States has about 200 nonstrategic weapons in Europe; they are bombs that would be delivered by Europe-based aircraft. | 2022-02-27T23:25:53Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/explainer-does-putins-alert-change-risk-of-nuclear-war | https://www.kxxv.com/news/explainer-does-putins-alert-change-risk-of-nuclear-war |
Russian people holding anti-war rallies, despite threats by Putin
Police detain a demonstrator during an act against Russia's attack on Ukraine in St. Petersburg, Russia, Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022. Protests against the Russian invasion of Ukraine resumed on Sunday, with people taking to the streets of Moscow and St. Petersburg and other Russian towns for the third straight day despite mass arrests. | 2022-02-28T01:56:14Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/russian-people-holding-anti-war-rallies-despite-threats-by-putin | https://www.kxxv.com/news/russian-people-holding-anti-war-rallies-despite-threats-by-putin |
Getting warmer this week
CENTRAL TEXAS — Although it was cold this morning, the afternoon made up for it with sunny skies and warmer temperatures. Highs made it to the 50s, and we'll be getting warmer than that throughout the week. Tonight will be cold once again with lows in the 20s, but that should be the last time that happens for at least another week.
Just a few clouds will hang around tomorrow afternoon with highs in the mid-60s. Tuesday will be a few degrees warmer although some more cloud cover may be in play. The temperatures will continue to rise, bringing us some 70s by Wednesday. In fact, I think highs in the 70s should stick around from Wednesday through the weekend.
Some small shower chances may pop up on Friday and Saturday, but right now, I think the best chance for any rain looks to be Sunday and Monday of next week, but it doesn't appear to be much at this stage. | 2022-02-28T01:56:26Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/getting-warmer-this-week | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/getting-warmer-this-week |
Trial set for man accused of fatally shooting Trooper Damon Allen
BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas — The trial for a man accused of shooting a state trooper to death, during a traffic stop, is finally set to begin today.
Dabrett Black is charged with capital murder of a peace officer in the death of Trooper Damon Allen.
Testimony is set to start at 9 a.m. Monday at the Brazos County courthouse.
Originally, the trial was supposed to happen in Freestone County, but the judge agreed to the defense's request for a "change of venue."
The trial is expected to last 7-to-8 days.
If convicted, Black faces life in prison without parole.
The shooting happened on Thanksgiving 2017.
Police say Trooper Allen stopped Black's car on I45, south of Fairfield.
According to court documents, Allen" got Black's driver's license and went back to his patrol car.
That's when police say Black got out of his car with a rifle, went to the patrol car, and shot Allen.
Black drove away and was later caught in Hempstead after a shootout with deputies and troopers.
At the time of the shooting, Black was out on bond for assaulting a public servant and evading arrest.
Trooper Allen's shooting led to the creation of the Damon Allen Act, which became law last year.
It prevents the release of defendants, charged with violent crimes or who are charged with violent crimes while out on bail.
It also requires defendants to be given or denied bail within 48 hours of their arrest and requires judges to examine a defendant's criminal history before setting bail. | 2022-02-28T14:10:06Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/trial-set-for-man-accused-of-fatally-shooting-trooper-damon-allen | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/trial-set-for-man-accused-of-fatally-shooting-trooper-damon-allen |
As global tensions rise, China demands US act to improve ties
(Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries via AP)
In this image made from video, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivers an address during a forum marking the 50th anniversary of the Shanghai Communique signed during the icebreaking 1972 visit to China by President Richard Nixon in Shanghai, Monday, Feb. 28, 2022. China's top diplomat called on the U.S. Monday to take steps to improve ties, as tensions simmer over Taiwan, trade and other issues. | 2022-02-28T16:38:10Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/as-global-tensions-rise-china-demands-us-act-to-improve-ties | https://www.kxxv.com/news/as-global-tensions-rise-china-demands-us-act-to-improve-ties |
Black History Month closing event in Temple
Monday morning at the Frank W Mayborn Civic Convention Center, the City of Temple hosted an event to celebrate black community leaders, business owners, and city employees in an effort to close out black history month in a memorable way.
Temple's City Manager Bryn Myers said, “Events like today are able to highlight the wonderful diversity that we have here in Temple and to celebrate the black community and the black individuals who have done so much to lead us and to make our community strong.”
The event was one way to honor black Temple citizens who have paved the way and those who continue to lead by example.
Bennie Walsh, NAACP Temple branch President said, “Those little steps make big steps and that’s what’s been happening here in Temple and I’m so happy to see it happening.”
Bennie Walsh expressed his gratitude to the city and looks forward to the many more positive change in the community.
Temple Mayor, Tim Davis also made a speech at the event he said, “I’m proud to be the mayor of a city that makes it intentional to get to know and honor all people and at the end of the day this is a community: it’s made up of African Americans, Caucasians and Hispanics – this is our home and anytime we can take an opportunity to celebrate someone, we do that.
The event is expected to be an annual one. The city says it's being done in an effort to highlight the history of African Americans and celebrate their continued success and great contribution to Temple. | 2022-02-28T23:04:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/black-history-month-closing-event-in-temple | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/black-history-month-closing-event-in-temple |
Former Baylor coach Art Briles is no longer Grambling State's offensive coordinator after the university faced scrutiny following his hiring, according to ESPN.
"Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your coaching staff at Grambling State University," Briles said in a statement. "Unfortunately, I feel that my continued presence will be a distraction to you and your team, which is the last thing that I want. I have the utmost respect [for] the university, and your players."
(ASSOCIATED PRESS) — Grambling State continues to face scrutiny after hiring disgraced former Baylor coach Art Briles to be the football program’s new offensive coordinator.
That didn’t stop new G rambling coach Hue Jackson from making the surprise hire last week. The 66-year-old Briles coached briefly in Italy and then at a Texas high school in Mount Vernon since he was dismissed from Baylor.
Grambling’s decision received renewed attention on Monday when a three-day old social media statement from the Hue Jackson Foundation gained traction.
Even so, the prominent HBCU in northern Louisiana hadn’t altered its decision as of Monday afternoon.
“Art Briles is still our offensive coordinator,” Grambling sports information director Brian Howard said. | 2022-03-01T00:59:41Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/scrutiny-continues-for-grambling-football-after-hiring-ex-baylor-coach-art-briles | https://www.kxxv.com/news/scrutiny-continues-for-grambling-football-after-hiring-ex-baylor-coach-art-briles |
One-on-one with U.S. ambassador who served both Bush administrations.
Members of Ukraine's Territorial Defense Forces, volunteer military units of the Armed Forces, train in a city park in Kyiv, Ukraine, Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022. Dozens of civilians have been joining Ukraine's army reserves in recent weeks amid fears about Russian invasion.
Eyes have been glued to the conflict in Ukraine. What was once unthinkable has now become a reality for those who live in Ukraine.
"I have been warning for some years now, that Putin was dangerous and that he was not what he appeared to be," said Andrew S. Natsios, Executive Professor at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University.
Natsios served under both George W. and George H.W. Bush administrations. In a one-on-one interview with In-Depth reporter Nick Bradshaw, he's been warning people about President Putin.
"I thought he was just biding his time until he could rebuild the Russian military and then he would attempt to re-create the Soviet empire," said Natsios.
When it comes to Texas he believes we shouldn't fear but pay attention to what is happening in Ukraine.
"He would like to isolate us in every respect, he wants revenge for the collapse of the Soviet Union. And he would like the NATO alliance to go away, and he'd like the EU to go away," said Natsios. "We need to understand this is not just a matter of Ukraine."
File - Newborn cribs in a basement used as a bomb shelter at the Okhmadet children's hospital in central Kyiv, Ukraine, Monday, Feb. 28, 2022. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)
On top of higher gas prices at the pump and prices on things like energy increasing, there is a chance we could see cyber attacks.
"We're going to see in the next months, in my view, huge cyber attacks on our infrastructure and President Biden has to get in front of him on some counter-attacks, said Natsios. "I think we should do them now. Because Putin has already been threatening us. Before they attacks, that because it will cripple their capacity."
What is the worst invasion in Europe, since World War 2, has played out on social media and television.
"But we need to understand we're no longer in the post-Cold War world anymore, that we're entering a new period of great power, rivalry, and violence, there's going to be a lot more instability in the world," said Natsios.
It's difficult to process what's happening at times. 74 percent of Americans call Russia's Ukraine invasion unjustified according to a recent Yahoo poll.
Putin has used religion and propaganda to help justify his reasoning for invading Ukraine.
"I'm an Orthodox Christian, but Putin has destroyed the Russian Orthodox Church by making an arm of the state," said Natsios. "So I'm very angry with what he's done to the Orthodox Church. He claims to be pro orthodox himself, I don't believe it. I think he's simply manipulated the church for propaganda purposes."
Many have compared the recent days to World War 2. Across the world cities, small and large, have said they stand with Ukraine. In Texas Gov. Abbott has asked businesses to pull Russian products from the store shelves.
Andrew S. Natsios places some blame on President Biden after the Afghanistan pull out.
"I do think it's the case I think why else? Why he timed it right now. It's like four months after this, this embarrassing withdrawal from Afghanistan that was done. It looked like we were running away," said Natsios.
He was also critical of former President Trump.
"I was [critical] yes, because the withdrawal plan was negotiated under President Trump. And Joe Biden carried out the Trump plan, both of them we need I'm a conservative internationalist, we need strong international leadership" | 2022-03-01T02:48:07Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-why-texans-should-care-about-the-ukraine-war-warning-on-cyber-attacks | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-why-texans-should-care-about-the-ukraine-war-warning-on-cyber-attacks |
Local veteran of 3 wars remembered by loved ones as humble, brave
WACO, Texas — Ira Walton broke barriers for Black men in the 1940s when he served as a Tuskegee Airman. He went on to serve in three different wars, then came home and continued to give back to other veterans for years.
He was a staple in the veteran community up until he just recently passed at 99 years old.
"It was a blessing to know him and to have him as an example of how to be a pillar in the community," his granddaughter Christine Wilson told 25 News.
Those who knew Ira Walton best remember him as humble, generous, and so brave.
"Just the fact that he was in three wars and experienced three wars, not three tours but three wars," McLennan County Veteran's Service Officer Steve Hernandez said. "It was pretty much a really strong testament for any veteran. It's not something that everyone can experience."
Walton served in World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam.
"I look at the courage he must've had to endure those three wars and I think about the honor afterwards of being able to survive all three wars," Hernandez said.
"He was very humble about it," Wilson said. "He would tell stories here and there, but he never really boasted about everything he did.< it wasn't until we got older and all this stuff happened in the world that we really realized what he sacrificed."
Walton was a military man through and through. He sat down with 25 News last year to talk about what serving meant to him.
"It's a different occupation," he said in November of 2021. "One thing about it, the person has to be devoted, determined, and committed."
His granddaughter said he was so committed that despite the length and success of his career, he still thought there was more to do.
"I guess you're supposed to retire at 50 and when he turned 50 he said I kept my mouth shut so they wouldn't catch me," she said. "He made it until 51 and then they realized he needed to retire and they forced him to retire."
In retirement, Walton spent a lot of his time with other veterans at the one-stop in Waco. He even donated his old Tuskegee Airman jacket to the organization.
"He actually said 'I'd like y'all to have it so it won't be forgotten' and that's how I know he won't be forgotten because of it," Hernandez said.
His legacy will live on not only on the walls of the one-stop, but also in the memories of the many lives he's changed along the way. | 2022-03-01T06:16:03Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/local-veteran-of-3-wars-remembered-by-loved-ones-as-humble-brave | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/local-veteran-of-3-wars-remembered-by-loved-ones-as-humble-brave |
WACO, TX — Waco firefighters are currently responding to an early morning house fire.
Firefighters got the call to the 3300 block of N. 24th St. just before 4:30 Tuesday morning.
Fire trucks arrived in minutes and were able to get the fire struck down in less than ten minutes.
Thankfully, no one was inside at the time of the fire, and no one was hurt.
Four engines, one truck and a Battalion Chief all responded to that scene. | 2022-03-01T12:46:46Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/waco-firefighters-respond-to-early-tuesday-fire | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/waco-firefighters-respond-to-early-tuesday-fire |
Firefighters, water police and police search for a vehicle in the river Rhine in Wesel, Germany, late Monday, Feb. 28, 2022. Authorities in Germany said Tuesday they have little hope of rescuing three passengers missing after the car they were in fell into the Rhine River. The car fell into the river in Wesel near Germany's western border with the Netherlands late Monday with five people inside. | 2022-03-01T20:28:39Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/3-bodies-recovered-from-car-that-fell-into-german-river | https://www.kxxv.com/news/3-bodies-recovered-from-car-that-fell-into-german-river |
Guest list announced for First Lady’s ‘viewing box’ for 2022 State of the Union Address
Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, among the invited guests.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – First Lady Jill Biden’s list of selected guests to join her in the “viewing box” for the President’s State of the Union address has been announced.
The president’s speech is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. CT.
“Each of these individuals, with their resilience, innovation, service, and courage, were chosen by the White House because they represent policies or themes to be addressed by the President in his speech,” the White House said in a news release.
Also joining the First Lady will be Second Gentleman, Douglas Emhoff, the President’s sister, Valerie Biden Owens, and the Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, Oksana Markarova.
Guests will include:
From the White House news release (as written): | 2022-03-01T21:59:50Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/guest-list-announced-for-first-ladys-viewing-box-for-2022-state-of-the-union-address | https://www.kxxv.com/news/guest-list-announced-for-first-ladys-viewing-box-for-2022-state-of-the-union-address |
"Many voting locations throughout Texas did not open because of staff shortages" 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.
This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2022/03/01/texas-primary-election-voting-location-closures/. | 2022-03-02T05:34:32Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/many-voting-locations-throughout-texas-did-not-open-because-of-staff-shortages | https://www.kxxv.com/news/many-voting-locations-throughout-texas-did-not-open-because-of-staff-shortages |
Women in blue: Local officers reflect on their journey to the force
WACO, Texas — All it took was one family member to get State Trooper Monica Montoya interested in law enforcement.
“[I’d] go spend the night at my uncle's house, and I could hear the garage door opening at two or three in the morning,” she said, remembering the time spent at her relative's house.
“[It was] either him leaving or coming home.”
Her uncle was a police officer in San Antonio.
Detective Amanda Paris remembers the industry catching her interest at a young age as well.
For the young girl from a military background, family was her inspiration, but in a different way.
“She would always be like, well, who's going to solve it within the 10 minutes?”
She remembered watching crime series and documentaries with her mother.
“I would give a guess… it wouldn't always be right.”
That girl turned into a college student pretty quickly.
Attending Sam Houston State, but living in College Station, she decided to join the blue after seeing a dispatcher position open up with CSPD.
“I knew that I wanted to be in the law enforcement world, I just didn't know quite where I was going to fit into it,” she said.
She was on the job around two weeks before she realized something:
“I fell head in love,” she said, smiling.
“Head over heels for it.”
However, one scenario changed her life.
On August 13, 2012, a gunman opened fire on Constable Brian Bachmann, killing him and another, and injuring four others.
“It struck a chord in me that as a dispatcher, you can only do so much to ensure that those officers go home safe at the end of the day, to their families and loved ones,” she said.
She began thinking back to that day at work. “I believed that I could do so much more, if I'm right next to them on the street.”
Joining the academy, she and many others, like Trooper Montoya, realized just how many men crowd the force.
“It was definitely an eye-opener,” Montoya said.
“For me, I didn't realize that it was such a male-dominated career field, I was very oblivious to all of that. “
Trooper Montoya is part of just seven percent of all sworn-in state troopers who are female across the country.
“When there's such few females, you just kind of have to stick together and kind of figure things out the way they should be done,” she said.
It’s a stagnant statistic too.
Back in 2000, that percentage was at six percent.
It’s not only state troopers feeling the lack of representation; less than 13 percent of all full-time police officers are female.
“Be confident, and know that you can do it, no matter what anybody else says,” Detective Paris said.
“You may do it differently, but you can do the same job,
"And you never know, by just doing your job, you may be inspiring others who want to be in your shoes and break the same barriers you did,
“I've actually had little girls come up to me before and tell me I want to become a police officer and it just makes my heart happy,” Trooper Montoya said, with a smile stretched across her face.
“I just, you know, if it's something that you want to do, then I encourage people to do it.” | 2022-03-02T14:54:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/women-in-blue-local-officers-reflect-on-their-journey-to-the-force | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/women-in-blue-local-officers-reflect-on-their-journey-to-the-force |
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and George P. Bush at their respective watch parties for the primary election results Tuesday.
By James Barragán and Kate McGee, The Texas Tribune
"Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is headed to a runoff against George P. Bush" 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.
Disclosure: Texans for Lawsuit Reform has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here. | 2022-03-02T14:54:43Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-attorney-general-ken-paxton-is-headed-to-a-runoff-against-george-p-bush | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-attorney-general-ken-paxton-is-headed-to-a-runoff-against-george-p-bush |
In Somaliland, COVID brings female genital mutilation to young girls' doorstep
Those who perform the risky procedures are known as 'cutters.'
(AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
Doctors perform a repair surgery on a fistula patient who had previously undergone female genital mutilation (FGM), at the Edna Adan Maternity Hospital in Hargeisa, Somaliland, Feb. 8, 2022.
This story is part of a yearlong series on how the pandemic is impacting women in Africa, most acutely in the least developed countries.
The AP is responsible for all content.
See the full series on how the pandemic is affecting women in Africa. | 2022-03-02T21:06:59Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-somaliland-covid-brings-female-genital-mutilation-to-young-girls-doorstep | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-somaliland-covid-brings-female-genital-mutilation-to-young-girls-doorstep |
BRENHAM, Texas — The discovery of an explosive this afternoon in Brenham had local law enforcement on alert, said officials.
A 1916 hand grenade was discovered in a private estate sale, according to the City of Brenham.
Out of extra precaution, neighboring businesses were evacuated and the College Station Bomb Squad was dispatched as well.
The bomb has since been secured and taken into possession. | 2022-03-02T21:07:05Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/106-year-old-grenade-discovered-in-brenham-evacuation-ordered | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/106-year-old-grenade-discovered-in-brenham-evacuation-ordered |
NEW ORLEANS (AP) —Stray bullets in separate shootings have killed two people who were visiting New Orleans for the festivities leading up to Mardi Gras. One was a 15-year-old girl from Texas, the other a 33-year-old man from South Carolina. Local news reports said 15-year-old Heaven Nettles of Houston was standing in line at a food truck Saturday when gunfire killed her and two men who also were in line. The Times-Picayune / The New Orleans Advocate reports that relatives have identified Brandon Bovain of Orangeburg, South Carolina, as the man killed Friday. One of his brothers says detectives told the family that Bovain was in his vehicle in a hotel parking lot when people in two other vehicles shot at each other. | 2022-03-03T00:12:00Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/media/v/content/b6c768690e302bbab3d54814652b347d | https://www.kxxv.com/media/v/content/b6c768690e302bbab3d54814652b347d |
EDITOR'S NOTE: Dabrett Black is on trial for allegedly shooting and killing Damon Allen, a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper, during a November 2017 traffic stop in Freestone County.
The jury were finally called in by 2 p.m. to hear from several witnesses brought forth by the defense, as the prosecution rested its case late Tuesday afternoon.
Black's defense brought forward individuals who could postulate the potential mental state of Black, when, during November 2017, he allegedly shot and killed Trooper Damon Allen during a traffic stop in Freestone County.
While Black's lawyers have never denied the defendant's actions in shooting Allen, they maintain that Black suffers from mental illness causing paranoia and other mind-altering symptoms.
The jury heard first from a lifelong friend of Black’s, Leondre “Dre” Clark. Clark said Black had been a well-behaved child growing up in East Texas, and was excited to enlist in the Army when in high school.
Clark testified that Black’s sense of paranoia and fear only appeared to emerge after returning home from his service. Clark said he’d taken many car rides to work with Black following Black’s return to Texas.
“He would always look in the rear view mirror to see if people were following him,” Clark said.
Clark also testified that he’d accompanied his friend to the VA several times, and whatever treatments Black received there didn’t seem to help his state of mind. Prosecutors asked Clark if Black had ever shown any negative reaction towards police officers, and Clark said he’d not noticed any animosity of the sort.
A cousin of Black’s, a man named Benny Black, testified to the same sentiment, noting Dabrett Black’s increased sense of paranoia as years progressed. Benny said the children in his family were raised with discipline, and a fear of breaking the law or drawing attention to themselves as African Americans. They were taught to fear being separated from their families by police, he said — and [Dabrett] Black was afraid of police.
The prosecution asked Benny if his cousin had entered the military willingly, and Benny said he had. Prosecutors also asked if Black and Benny had been taught as children to avoid behaviors that would draw attention to law enforcement, “such as driving 100 miles per hour,” they specified. Benny said they had been taught this mindset.
Finally, a physician was called to the stand, Dr. Steven Yount, an osteopathic specialist. Yount had examined Dabrett Black in 2019, two years after Black’s arrest. Lab work garnered a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease, a form of autoimmune disorder which affects the thyroid.
Yount said that when reviewing Black’s military records, he’d noticed Black had been previously diagnosed with schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress. Hashimoto’s disease, Yount said, could enhance and aggravate the symptoms experienced by both these illnesses.
Trial will resume at the Brazos County Courthouse at 9 a.m. Thursday. | 2022-03-03T03:11:33Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/day-3-trial-focuses-on-mental-health-of-man-accused-of-killing-dps-trooper | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/day-3-trial-focuses-on-mental-health-of-man-accused-of-killing-dps-trooper |
Recovery group provides Narcan, overdose prevention training for McLennan County Sheriff's Office
WACO, Texas — A Central Texas recovery group provided deputies at the McLennan County Sheriff's Office with a Narcan donation and overdose prevention training on Wednesday.
The training came as a partnership between the sheriff's office and Brazos Recovery Services, an addiction recovery center in Bosque County. The center's operations manager, Richard Bradshaw brought the department a box full of Narcan kits. He also provided a presentation to deputies about how to administer the overdose prevention drug and how one should respond if they come in contact with fentanyl.
"Anything we can do to help out the people on the front lines, we're up for it," Bradshaw said.
Between September 2020 and 2021, more than 4,900 Texas are estimated to have died from an overdose, according to provisional CDC data. Overdose deaths tied to opioids like fentanyl reached an all-time high in 2020.
Every deputy from the department is supposed to carry Narcan, or naloxone, with them. This allows law enforcement to address an overdose if medics have not yet arrived to a scene.
"We carry it in our medic packs," said Amanda Leka, a deputy in the mental health unit for the department.
Wednesday's training helped make sure deputies like Leka know the best practices for using Narcan effectively.
"We're more comfortable with the fact that we can come back and tell our guys, 'If you have to open ten packages, until the ambulance get there...do it,'" Leka said.
The sheriff's office plans to host more mental health-related training for deputies in the future. Bradshaw said working with law enforcement agencies on overdose prevention is a step towards changing the way people view addiction.
"We are definitely not at a level that would be deemed as optimal. But we are definitely making steps in the right direction," Bradshaw said.
Brazos Recovery is a male-only drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in Bosque County. You can find more about the services and resources offered by the center on its website. | 2022-03-03T14:17:27Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/recovery-group-provides-narcan-overdose-prevention-training-for-mclennan-county-sheriffs-office | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/recovery-group-provides-narcan-overdose-prevention-training-for-mclennan-county-sheriffs-office |
Will it happen? $4 a gallon gas in Central Texas?
WACO, Texas — Gas prices have shot up, having reached $3.29 per gallon today in Waco.
The new statewide average is now $3.38 for regular, according to AAA Texas, nearly $1 higher than this time last year.
Nobody wants to pay more for gas, but experts are almost guaranteeing prices will keep going up right down the road.
The current crisis in Ukraine is fueling higher prices at the gas pump in Central Texas and around the world."
"I don't like it," Jim Paul of Waco told 25 News while filling up his car this week.
Paul is cutting back on travel to save what he can.
"I drive to and from work and to and from the store and that's about it," Paul said.
Sylvia Gonzalez has a construction business in Waco.
She's losing money every time she goes to a jobsite.
"Oh, it's going to hurt us really bad because I do [home remodeling] and it's really hard for us to travel from here to there," Gonzalez said.
Daniel Armbruster with AAA Texas monitors the factors that influence the price you pay.
"It's a really good example of what happens around the globe impacts us in Texas," Armbruster said.
President Joe Biden announced this week the U.S. and allies will release 60 million barrels of oil to offset the cost.
"My administration is using the tools, every tool at its disposal to protect American families and businesses from rising prices at the gas pump," the president announced earlier this week.
According to Armbruster, tapping into the U.S. oil reserve does not help much.
"When that was done a few months ago it didn't have a big impact," Armbruster said.
AAA Texas warns it's only going to get worse.
Spring Break travel is right around the corner and the more expensive summer blend of gas will be out in April.
"Some market analysts say we could see gas up to $4 a gallon at the end of this year if something isn't done," Armbruster told 25 News.
For now, drivers will be losing money to Russia's ripple effect, hitting both your gas tank and Ukraine.
"Our heart is there," Gonzalez said. "But it's hard to help a country when we need help here."
AAA Texas suggests a nuclear deal with Iran would help put that country's oil back on the global market and stabilize gas prices. | 2022-03-03T16:12:30Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/will-it-happen-4-a-gallon-gas-in-central-texas | https://www.kxxv.com/news/will-it-happen-4-a-gallon-gas-in-central-texas |
Demonstrators face members of the Austin Police Department as they gather in downtown Austin, Texas, Thursday, June 4, 2020, to protest the death of George Floyd, a black man who was in police custody in Minneapolis. Floyd died after being restrained by Minneapolis police officers on Memorial Day.(AP Photo/Eric Gay)
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Austin officials approved a nearly $3 million settlement Thursday for a teen who was seriously injured by police during 2020 protests over racial injustice — the Texas capital city’s latest response to criticism of its handling of demonstrations in which 19 officers have been charged with aggravated assault.
Then-16-year-old Brad Ayala was watching the protest when an officer shot him in the head with a beanbag round. The settlement brings the total amount Austin officials have approved for people injured in the May 2020 protests to over $13 million.
Last month, the city agreed to pay $10 million to two people injured by police during protests that followed the May 25, 2020, police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Hours later, a Travis County grand jury indicted 19 officers for their actions during the protests.
One of the of the indicted officers allegedly fired the beanbag round that hit Ayala. Two of the other indicted officers were involved in the other two cases that were settled.
Local doctors warned Austin police of the danger of “less lethal” munitions following the protests. They say at least 19 people were hospitalized in Austin for injuries from such weapons. The police chief at the time, Brian Manley, vowed that officers would stop using beanbag rounds in crowd control situations.
The prosecutor who is pursuing the charges against officers, Travis County Districty Attorney Jose Garza, campaigned in 2020 on a promise to take a tougher stance on police accountability. | 2022-03-04T02:25:28Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/austin-approves-2-95m-settlement-for-teen-injured-by-police | https://www.kxxv.com/news/austin-approves-2-95m-settlement-for-teen-injured-by-police |
Did he kill with intent? Dabrett Black's schizophrenia, PTSD, focus of Day 4 in murder trial
BRYAN, Texas — The fourth day of trial for Dabrett Black focused on Black’s mental health history and his state of mind at the time of killing Texas State Trooper Damon Allen. The jury learned the extent of Black’s combat experience while serving in Iraq, and the defense presented their argument that at the time of Allen’s death, Black was impacted by his schizophrenia, post traumatic stress, and traumatic brain injury.
Dabrett Black is accused of murdering Trooper Allen during a 2017 traffic stop in Freestone County. Black shot Allen with a rifle as the officer was inside his patrol vehicle, running Black’s information through an in-car computer. The shooting resulted in an hours-long manhunt for Black, resulting in his eventual apprehension by police K9.
Thursday Black’s legal team attempted to introduce expert witness from a sociologist who specializes in studying military culture and its effect on service members as they reacculturate into civilian life. The prosecution objected to this witness, arguing that his testimony would be more appropriate for sentencing. Presiding judge Pat Simmons agreed, and the jury did not hear from this expert.
Simmons did allow testimony from a psychologist who analyzed Black, Dr. Robert Stanulis. Stanulis reviewed all case evidence and all of Black’s military and medical records. He interviewed Black personally over the course of three days. Stanulis affirmed the diagnoses already given to Black by the military, agreeing that he suffers from post-traumatic stress [PTSD], schizophrenia, and a traumatic brain injury [TBI].
Stanulis discussed Black’s military history at length, noting that when Black entered the Army in 2004, he was declared neurotypical by the Army, and did not suffer from any psychological disorders at that time. Black, a truck operator and convoy gunner, saw three tours of duty in Iraq, during which he encountered improvised explosive devices [IEDs], fire fights, and mortar attacks.
"He was in active combat within the first few hours of landing,” Stanulis told the courtroom, describing Black’s first deployment. “He fired his weapon from the back of a truck at a vehicle from behind... causing the other vehicle to drive off the road. So, in the first few hours he used his combat training."
Both legal teams discussed how Black began abusing alcohol and synthetic marijuana, or “spice,” towards the end of his military service. Stanulis noted that spice cannot cause Black’s mental health disorders, and that at the time of his arrest in 2017, no illegal substances were found in his system.
Prosecutors repeatedly asked Dr. Stanulis if he believed Black had acted without intent when he killed Trooper Allen. They reiterated Black’s calm and lucid behavior throughout the traffic stop prior to the shooting; how Black had apologized for speeding and texting on his phone while driving. Black was also aware that he was travelling to Houston to see his sister, the prosecution pointed out, and understood that Trooper Allen was a police officer, not an insurgent on the battlefield.
Stanulis explained that service members are trained to respond to a threat without hesitation, choosing the ‘fight’ response in an instance of ‘fight, flight, or freeze.’ The prosecution questioned why Black had not fought police officers in past encounters with them, and why he chose to run from police in at least two incidents; one of which included the manhunt following Allen’s death. The defense reiterated their position that Black was psychologically triggered only once a second police car had pulled up behind Allen’s vehicle.
Throughout his testimony, Stanulis reiterated that different people perceive different items and actions as threats; especially a veteran with PTSD.
"What we see as innocuous, for them, is not,” he said.
Black’s intention to kill Trooper Allen, his decision making ability, and his control over his own mind have been the key points of contention in this case. Trial resumes 10 a.m. Friday morning at the Brazos County courthouse. | 2022-03-04T02:25:34Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/did-he-kill-with-intent-dabrett-blacks-schizophrenia-ptsd-focus-of-day-4-in-murder-trial | https://www.kxxv.com/news/did-he-kill-with-intent-dabrett-blacks-schizophrenia-ptsd-focus-of-day-4-in-murder-trial |
AUSTIN, Texas — Outside the State Capitol, a group of Russians who now call the Lone Star State home make a demand.
"I think that every person should expose themselves to the information and make their own judgment," said Oleg Litvinov originally from Moscow, Russia.
Russia’s censorship office threatens to block all of Wikipedia in the country if the website doesn’t delete information about Russian soldier casualties and military violence against Ukrainian civilians.
Whether or not their cries from Austin has an impact on ending the war, having the opportunity to protest is something he recognizes.
"Regardless of how this ends, we will pay for generations of rightful anger and hatred towards our people. Just to be clear, we never had a choice since the soviet power was put in place and we still don't have a choice," said Litvinov.
To take an hour out of his day and spend it letting his voice be heard is a dream come true.
"Right now across Texas there are over seven thousand people in jail for expressing their opinions," said Litvinov."We have the luxury of having freedom. In Russia, it's both illegal and it's social death."
He and his family are not fans of Putin and believe he does not adequately represent the Russian people
"Even if you share the news with your friend or you share a news article describing something outside the official narrative, you're done," said Litvinov.
The group plans to continue having their voices heard. It's a gift for freedom. | 2022-03-04T02:25:40Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-preview-russians-living-in-texas-against-the-ukraine-war-and-demand-it-to-end | https://www.kxxv.com/news/in-depth/in-depth-preview-russians-living-in-texas-against-the-ukraine-war-and-demand-it-to-end |
Texas A&M University (Facebook)
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Ameila McCracken always had an entrepreneurial way of thinking.
“A lot of kids grow up and think, 'Oh, I have to get this eight to five job…' They think that that's the only path, but really entrepreneurship is a viable option for a career," McCracken said.
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree for the family of Aggies.
“My dad was class of ‘83,” she said. “I graduated in 2010.”
Every woman in her family, and her father, owned their own businesses, a dynamic not every child is familiar with.
“It was really unique growing up in that,” she said. “I just knew that I was going to have my own business and I've had quite a few.”
She’s worked for herself doing weddings and she’s owned her own photography business.
“I'd have to miss my friends' weddings, or like funerals and stuff that would pop up that I couldn't go to and I was like I'm too young for this,” she said. “I wanted my weekends back.”
That’s when she started MENT, a marketing agency supporting both local businesses and those across the country.
“I knew I wanted to do marketing, but I also love mentorship,” she said. “I wanted to combine both of those.”
She now takes Texas A&M students under her wing, allowing them to gain the necessary experience they need before graduating.
“It's a whole extended family that you become a part of when you're an Aggie,” she said.
If you’re interested in her company or interested in becoming a mentee, you can find her via social media. | 2022-03-04T12:26:36Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas-a-m-grad-helps-fellow-aggies-by-opening-her-own-business | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas-a-m-grad-helps-fellow-aggies-by-opening-her-own-business |
$870,000 helps Big Brothers Big Sisters in Brazos County expand
ROBERTSON COUNTY, Texas — Through the partnership of two school districts, Big Brothers Big Sisters in Brazos County is expanding its efforts across the community.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is growing thanks to a $870,000 grant awarded to Hearne ISD. A newly developed after-school program gives students the chance to explore their interests while also being mentored.
JaMarion Tates loves to embark on new challenges, so he dove headfirst with excitement when he learned about the new mentoring opportunity at his school.
"Yeah, I didn’t think people would want to sign up but they did anyway," said JaMarion Tates, the first Robertson County mentee. "So that’s pretty cool.”
Developing this program has been a labor of love for Marlise Golden-Thomas. It's essentially come full circle for her.
Golden-Thomas began her career at Hearne ISD as a receptionist for a similar program years back. But now she started from scratch to make it bigger and better.
”We started off at ground zero," said Golden-Thomas, the project director for the after-school program. "At ground zero, we started running. I mean when I say we started running we started running... We started running.”
Golden-Thomas returned to her hometown to enrich the next generation with the help of Big Brothers Big Sisters.
”Any opportunity to offer the students who live in a town that may not have this opportunity of mentorship is a great one," said Terry Dougherty, branch director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Brazos Valley. "It will enrich lives of the students, it will enrich lives of volunteers and overall make the school and community better.”
These mentors help students from Hearne and Calvert ISD enhance their education and encourage them with the endless possibilities of what their futures can hold.
”We want to bring in any type of activities that the kids would be willing to do," said Golden-Thomas. "One thing that the students talked about and we’re in the process of getting started is hair braiding.”
Tates is so far the only students matched with a mentor but since starting he has helped encourage other students to seek their big brother or sister too.
“You’ll have a lot of fun, and you will also try new things that you’ve never tried before,”said Tates.
They hope to continue growing, accepting as many students as possible and including other subjects of interest they'd like to learn more about.
If you're interested in becoming a mentor learn more here. | 2022-03-04T14:37:20Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/870-000-helps-big-brothers-big-sisters-in-brazos-county-expand | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/870-000-helps-big-brothers-big-sisters-in-brazos-county-expand |
Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery holds its 100th unaccompanied veteran funeral
KILLEEN, Texas — Dozens of veterans and community members gathered at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery to pay respects to one of our nation's heroes.
None of the people who came to celebrate Private First Class Billy Myrick's life knew him before he passed away, but they knew his sacrifice and commitment to his country, and that was enough to bring them out.
Honor, courage, commitment, that is what PFC Myrick had in common with every person laid to rest at a veteran's cemetery.
Unlike most of them, he had no next of kin to attend his funeral — and that is why dozens of people were there to honor him.
”For me, it’s an honor to be able to be here to honor another veteran," said Thomas Grove, Vietnam veteran and Wind Therapy Freedom Rider. To welcome them back. Now it’s God’s turn to welcome them back.”
Grove is just one of many Wind Therapy Freedom Riders who attend as many unaccompanied veteran funerals as possible — and this one was no exception.
”Our organization is about police and veterans and people who are in need because that is what we do," Grove said. "Service to our country starts every day with every person."
Grove was not the only veteran making sure no man is left behind.
”It’s an honor to be part of something so special and without the community, the Texas Veterans Land Board, and the Commissioner George P. Bush, this wouldn’t have been here.” said Douglas Gault, U.S Army veteran and on-site representative for the Veterans Land Board.
Even the Texas General Land Office saw that there is something different and special about this taking place at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.
”It really is the community that makes these things special," said Mark Heavens, deputy land commissioner for GLO. "We have four of them throughout the state, but this one, the community involvement is amazing.”
Those in attendance had a message for their fellow vets.
”Twenty-two guys die every day because they’re alone," Grove said. "Don't leave them alone. That's not what we’re about.”
The sheer number of those that came to see PFC Myrick proves that no matter when or how long you served, this community will not let you be a man left behind. | 2022-03-04T14:37:26Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/homepage-showcase/central-texas-state-veterans-cemetery-hold-its-100th-unaccompanied-veteran-funeral | https://www.kxxv.com/homepage-showcase/central-texas-state-veterans-cemetery-hold-its-100th-unaccompanied-veteran-funeral |
McLennan County voter turnout for March primaries described as 'disappointing'
WACO, Texas — Polling data shows only 17 percent of Texas voters cast a ballot in the primary. Election officials say the low turnout doesn't paint a big enough picture for everyone.
It should be an easy process, but that philosophy is not the same for everyone.
New data from the March primaries show only 17 percent of registered voters in the state showed up to the polls.
Jared Goldsmith, with McLennan County elections, said it's a bit bigger in McLennan County, but still not great.
"It depends on what type of election is going on," Goldsmith said. "Presidential elections have the most turnout that's what most people are focused on. Governor in November is the second and then president primary and then governor primary which is what we just had."
According to the county, McLennan has seen a 2 percent increase in it's population — but with only a margin of new voters, the number's aren't adding up.
"We want to see Americans and Texans and people of McLennan County participate in McLennan County," Goldsmith said. | 2022-03-04T14:37:32Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/mclennan-county-voter-turnout-for-march-primaries-described-as-disappointing | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/mclennan-county-voter-turnout-for-march-primaries-described-as-disappointing |
KILLEEN, Texas — Lindsay Curtis and her husband close on a newly constructed home in Belton next week.
Throughout the buying process they faced soaring prices for everything from materials to finding a reasonable builder.
“A lot of builders were canceling contracts," Curtis said. "They were saying you’re either gonna have to pay this amount or we’re gonna cancel it."
Curtis said they originally signed for $326,000 in 2020. Then, the price changed big time.
“It was supposed to take six months to build, but it took over a year," Curtis said. "When we finally got it appraised, it appraised about $70,000 more than what we bought it for.”
Curtis said they also bought a rental home in Killeen, which also appraised $30,000 more than the original price.
“Day-by-day the house were going up to the point where our lender actually offered to give us more money because what we were approved for when I get out the house we wanted,” said Curtis.
According to a Fort Hood Area Association of Realtors report, home prices have jumped up more than 20 percent year-over-year since December 2020 to December 2021.
Housing experts say prices are up 60 percent since 2017.
“There’s definitely been growth and prices," said Robert Tennant, Texas A&M Central Texas's Interim Department Chair of Finance Accounting & Economics. "However, none of them have been near the 20 percent mark until now. It was more like 11 to 15 percent.”
The report also said closings sales were up 60 percent by the end of 2020.
“We still have more buyers than we do sellers and as soon as the house goes up on the market it moves pretty quick,” said HomeVets Realty Jose Segarra.
Experts said the Killeen area has lower inventory than Houston and other major Texas cities. They still expect home prices to rise in the months to come. | 2022-03-04T18:31:45Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/home-prices-in-bell-county-more-than-20-percent-higher-since-end-of-2020 | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/home-prices-in-bell-county-more-than-20-percent-higher-since-end-of-2020 |
City of Bryan official website
KILLEEN, Texas — If you're looking for a new job and enjoy having some fun in the sun, The City of Killeen and the greater area in Bell County are hiring for lifeguards this summer.
Due to the shortage experienced last year, the city is trying to amp up on incentives, salaries, and benefits. Heather Buller, The City's Assistant Director of Recreation Services said, “We actually increased our hourly pay for all of our lifeguards.”
Cities across Central Texas are making these changes to make these lifeguard positions more attractive. There has been an employee shortage across the country, and it's being felt on the local level. Most municipal pools have shortened or limited their operating hours because of this shortage.
“As long as the kids stay with us from year to year, there are more opportunities for that pay to increase.”
Amy Mersiovsk, Nursing Director with TAMU, spoke on the importance of water safety and the need for lifeguards. “Drowning is a huge problem; it’s one of the most common causes of death in children and also a common cause among the elderly," she said.
Killeen is paying $11 an hour as a starting salary and will also reimburse applicants for the cost of their lifeguard certification. They are looking to fill 81 positions by this summer. More information is available on their website: killeentexas.gov. | 2022-03-04T23:47:51Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/the-city-of-killeens-trying-to-fill-many-lifeguard-positions-by-summer | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/the-city-of-killeens-trying-to-fill-many-lifeguard-positions-by-summer |
NewsTraveling Texas with Ann Harder
Explore the wild west for Texas Independence Day
By: Ann Harder
Texas Independence Day is the perfect time to take a step back and see what it was like to live in the wild west.
On the banks of Lake Pat Cleburne, you can take a step back in time and learn what it was like to live as a pioneer, in the early Texas days, on the Chisolm Trail.
"The cattle really saved Texas," said David Murdoch, CEO and chairman of the Chisolm Trail Outdoor Museum.“Well, the cattle that were sold during that time, it really brought Texans out of bankruptcy after the civil war. I mean, everybody was starving. They were broke.”
Murdoch oversees nearly two dozen outdoor exhibits. The first thing to greet you is a massive line of life-size cattle and cowboys.
"It is the largest silhouette cattle drive as far as we know in the nation," said Murdoch.
There are historically significant buildings that have been moved to the site like the state’s oldest walled courthouse – built-in 1854 from logs an expert tells them were originally harvested in 1776.
There’s a replica one-room schoolhouse where the museum offers kids the chance to experience school the way their ancestors did.
"Their last assignment of the day is to write a paragraph on what their experience of the day," said Murdoch. "And this one little fourth grader wrote this was 'funner' than Christmas.”
An authentic dog trot style building dedicated to the lawmen of the day including the Texas Rangers. That’s where 25 News caught up with Carrie Reynolds, on-site director for the museum.
"We have some of their private collection of guns, badges, and everything else," said Reynolds. "But we have one display in particular, that is bill hardens. And I'm sure that name is known around the world now because he's the oldest living law enforcement man ever in the history of law enforcement. And we have the majority of his collection.”
Carrie, herself, is legendary—a member of the national cowgirl museum and hall of fame as a world championship barrel racer.
But now her passion is promoting the Chisolm Trail Outdoor Museum. Her favorite exhibit?
"Hard to choose, but I'm a Native American fanatic, and I love all that history down in big bear museum," said Reynolds.
And it is an impressive display of the collection belonging to Big Bear Leonard Beal.
From moccasins that were owned by Quanah Parker to the iconic ghost dance shirt.
“I think the organization and the artifacts that we have to tell the complete story of the Native American," said Reynolds.
Jimmy Smith is a curator of the Big Bear Museum that focuses on Native Americans across the United States, but specifically the Native Americans in Texas, we cover something like 30,000 years’ worth of prehistory.
You’ll see incredibly rare items like ancient spears and arrowheads.
"Well, we just recently got a pair of Comanche dolls that night between 1850 and 1875 that are in excellent condition, and I've never seen another doll like this in any other Native American collection.” | 2022-03-05T01:25:45Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/traveling-texas-with-ann-harder/explore-the-wild-west-for-texas-independence-day | https://www.kxxv.com/news/traveling-texas-with-ann-harder/explore-the-wild-west-for-texas-independence-day |
'Keep going' Central Texas woman soon to be TAMUCT's oldest grad
After years of prioritizing her family needs and dreams, one Central Texas woman is finally fulfilling her own.
At 75 years young, on May 14, 2022, Ethel Johnson will be the oldest graduate from Texas A&M Central Texas.
Ethel Johnson is originally from San Antonio but settled in Killeen after her husband retired from the military. As a military spouse, Johnson went as far as Germany but never lost sight of her dream. Starting in 2016, she would take one or two classes a semester at A&M Central. She now has her sights set on graduation.
"Oh, I never thought I would be wearing one of these," said Johnson as she tried on her cap and gown for the first time.
Her dream has been 57 years in the making. Since 1965, she took classes all over the world, selflessly serving her family.
"I’ve always put my husband and my children first- you know, whatever they want I’ve always supported them. It feels like a void has been filled," Johnson said.
Now, her family is returning the favor. One of her daughters, Teresa Johnson, has been supporting her mother through it all.
"I know how bad she wanted to do this, how bad she wanted to continue her education. It feels good- it makes me feel good as a woman, good as her daughter, good as a mother myself, to give my mother back what she’s always given us," said Teresa.
So, on graduation day when Ethel turns the tassel, her dreams will officially come true.
Johnson said, "This was my dream and I fulfilled it. I’m sleeping in this gown and I’m sleeping with the hat on, don’t y’all try to take it off."
Proving the old saying to be true, "a dream delayed is not a dream denied." Ms. Johnson will be getting her bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies and plans to hit the golf course with her husband after graduation. | 2022-03-05T03:03:50Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/keep-going-central-texas-woman-soon-to-be-tamucts-oldest-grad | https://www.kxxv.com/news/positively-central-texas/keep-going-central-texas-woman-soon-to-be-tamucts-oldest-grad |
BEVERLY HILLS, Texas — The City of Beverly Hills Police Department hosted a firearm safety awareness event on Friday and gave away free gun locks to residents.
The department set up a tent outside the Harmony School of Innovation on Valley Mills Road. People were able to meet with the department and learn more about firearm safety.
"We take safety very seriously," said lieutenant Eugene Mirick. "And I think it's something that needs to be out there, and we need to be out here and visible."
Mirick said the department wanted to ensure that people know how to keep their guns safe, and how to keep their children safe if firearms are present.
Mauro Sanchez, a gun owner and father, stopped by the firearm safety event to pick up gun locks.
"I want to make sure my son knows about firearms and make sure he knows about the safety of firearms, too," Sanchez said.
In 2021, there were 76 accidental gun deaths in Texas, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Sanchez said the department was impressed with the department for opening up the community to firearm education.
"A lot of people don't have common sense nowadays, but you got people like them showing you, making you understand," he said.
The city planned to have extra locks available for residents at City Hall who were not able to make it to the gun safety event. | 2022-03-05T04:38:57Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/beverly-hills-police-host-firearm-safety-meetup-give-gun-locks-away | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/beverly-hills-police-host-firearm-safety-meetup-give-gun-locks-away |
1 dead, 1 seriously injured in Saturday morning shooting in downtown Waco
Police are still working to identify the shooter.
WACO, Texas — A 30-year-old male was fatally shot, and another person was seriously wounded during an early morning shooting on 8th Avenue in downtown Waco, according to the Waco Police Department.
Ofc. Garen Bynum said Waco police responded to shots fired call around 1:45 a.m. in the 700 block of Austin Avenue. He says a fight starting in the Warehouse Bar spilled out into the street, at which time at least one individual fired a gun several times, hitting two individuals.
McLennan County Justice of the Peace Pete Peterson pronounced a 30-year-old male victim dead. His name will be released later, pending notification of family. Waco police believe the 30-year-old was not involved in the initial fight.
According to Bynum, the second victim was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital in Temple for medical treatment. At this time, that person's name is being withheld.
In an interview early Saturday at the crime scene, Bynum said several people were detained, but police are still determining who the shooter was.
You can call (254) 750-7500 or remain anonymous by calling Waco Crimestoppers at (254) 753-HELP(4357). This is the 5th murder this year in Waco. | 2022-03-05T14:23:04Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/1-dead-1-seriously-injured-in-saturday-morning-shooting-in-downtown-waco | https://www.kxxv.com/news/1-dead-1-seriously-injured-in-saturday-morning-shooting-in-downtown-waco |
Warm & windy Saturday ahead in Central Texas
Highs will be in the 70s and 80s this afternoon with some lingering rain chances for our morning hours.
Overcast skies are in the forecast for this weekend, but that won't stop the warm temps! Winds will pick up throughout the afternoons with gusts up to 30 mph.
A cold front will enter the picture Sunday night into Monday morning. There will be a strong cap over the area, so the heaviest activity will be north and east of Central Texas.
However, we should have enough energy for at least a few scattered showers and storms early Monday morning.
Winds will shift to the north behind the front and help to clear things out Monday afternoon. Highs will be cooler in the 60s. | 2022-03-05T14:23:10Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-windy-saturday-ahead | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/warm-and-windy-saturday-ahead |
KILLEEN, Texas — A 31-year-old man is dead – and Killeen police are seeking information tied to his death.
The identity of the male victim has been withheld pending notification of next of kin.
http://dedicatedhosting.pro
He was pronounced dead at 4:36 a.m. by Justice of the Peace Bill Cooke. An autopsy has been ordered.
According to Killeen police, officers were initially dispatched around 3:15 a.m. to the 300 block of Dean Avenue on reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers located a 25-year-female victim with an apparent gunshot wound, a Killeen Police Department news release said.
At this time, police were informed of a "second victim" that would later turn out to be the 31-year-old man found dead.
The female victim was airlifted to Baylor Scott & White Hospital in critical condition.
The Killeen Police Department’s Homicide Unit is continuing to investigate. | 2022-03-05T21:43:08Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/31-year-old-man-found-dead-information-needed-killeen-police | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/bell-county/31-year-old-man-found-dead-information-needed-killeen-police |
Kelly, Realtors hosts donation drive for Caritas of Waco
WACO, Texas — As inflation continues to raise the cost of everyday items, donations to food banks have started to slow down drastically.
Now Kelly, Realtors in Waco wants to help.
They started collecting donations for Caritas of Waco earlier in the week and together, their staff was able to gather 1,000 cans of food.
Then they opened that donation drive to the public on Saturday and collected even more.
"It's really important for us to be able to help them because at Kelly, Realtors we want to help the community, we want to help our neighbors, we want to help our friends," said Marketing Director Marie Santiago.
The group spent the morning encouraging the community to help them give back and restock the shelves for Caritas of Waco.
"This is the time of year where not many people think about it," Realtor Ashley Weist said.
"It's usually Thanksgiving and Christmas, but their shelves are getting bare and we just wanted to help."
"We don't expect you to donate a lot," Santiago said.
"We know that prices are rising on everything. If you can donate one can, just one item. One pack of diapers, and we know diapers are expensive. If someone else can bring in a box of feminine hygiene products, it makes a difference and that's really what we're hoping, to make a difference."
They collected dry and canned foods, personal hygiene items such as adult diapers, baby diapers, and feminine products, and so much more.
They say despite the rising costs, the need for assistance stays the same.
"The cost of things has been on the rise for a while now, this is not necessarily new," Santiago said.
"It might have gone up a lot more recently, but the need doesn't go away. The need is in fact even greater and people are hungry every day."
Anyone who missed Saturday's event can still drop off items at their office on Valley Mills Drive until Monday afternoon when it will all be picked up by Caritas of Waco. | 2022-03-05T23:27:27Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/kelly-realtors-hosts-donation-drive-for-caritas-of-waco | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/kelly-realtors-hosts-donation-drive-for-caritas-of-waco |
Still warm tomorrow, but not for long
CENTRAL TEXAS — After a warm day, overnight lows will be quite mild. We should only fall into the low to mid-60s. The warmth will be back tomorrow. I think most locations should reach 80°, and I'm tempted to say it will be even warmer than that, but we will have a lot of cloud cover to contend with. Spotty showers will move through the area during Sunday.
Bigger changes are on the way for Monday. A cold front will sweep through early Monday morning, bringing a line of showers. Some thunderstorms may also occur with this line, but the strong storm threat will stay to our northeast. The frontal passage will spell temperatures in the 40s and 50s during the day on Monday. The showers will be gone by lunch, but a bit more rain could arrive on Tuesday, mainly for the Brazos Valley.
Another dose of winter air could be waiting for us late next week. Right now it looks like we could have sub-freezing temperatures on Saturday morning. | 2022-03-06T01:08:44Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/still-warm-tomorrow-but-not-for-long | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/still-warm-tomorrow-but-not-for-long |
'Aggies for Ukraine': Students and faculty protest Russian invasion
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Rallies across the country are taking place, sending a message of support to those suffering in Ukraine. Today, students and faculty came together on A&M's campus to stand in support of those suffering in Ukraine.
"They’re fighters, Ukrainians have always been fighters," said Peter Kuchment, a distinguished professor at A&M.
The professors who organized the rally have strong ties to Ukraine, some with family still there. They say rallies like this are the least they can do. They stand in solidarity not only for their country but for their families' suffering too.
”As we speak, my mother, and brother, and my father have been in the basement of their houses hiding from shells,” said Artem Rogovskyy, A&M professor. “Letting Ukrainians know that they’re not alone and that’s very important for them to know that they’re not alone,”
Music from their homeland played throughout the rally and those who came together one by one shared a few words.
”I think that it’s the least we can do, we also contribute money," said Kuchment. "We raise awareness, but this is not that much something more than that needs to be done,”
Although events like the one held today help bring awareness and support, some believe more action is needed.
”With this rally, we want to emphasize the danger of this current situation," said Oksana Nekrashevych, rally organizer and faculty at A&M. "The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and how it can get much worse if we do not act,”
A&M Professor Artem Rogovskyy says the biggest thing he believes can be done is the implementation of no-fly zones over Ukraine.
“For the united states to make the right decision and protect Ukrainians by closing the sky so we’re not being shelled and bombarded there,” explain Rogovskyy.
These professors are hoping similar rallies across the country are motivating the U.S government and NATO to take more action. | 2022-03-06T02:44:31Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/aggies-for-ukraine-students-and-faculty-protest-russian-invasion | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/aggies-for-ukraine-students-and-faculty-protest-russian-invasion |
Grossi said in Tehran that “it would be difficult to believe or to imagine that such an important return to such a comprehensive agreement ... would be possible if the agency and Iran would not be seeing eye to eye on how to resolve these important safeguards issues.” Safeguards refer to the IAEA’s inspections and monitoring of a country’s nuclear program. | 2022-03-06T02:44:43Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/iran-to-answer-un-nuclear-questions-as-deal-talks-near-end | https://www.kxxv.com/news/iran-to-answer-un-nuclear-questions-as-deal-talks-near-end |
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico woman says was carjacked at knifepoint but state police investigators haven’t confirmed there was another person in the vehicle when it was involved in a freeway crash that killed a Santa Fe police officer and a retired firefighter following a pursuit.
Search warrant affidavits filed to seek DNA and evidence from Jeannine Jaramillo’s cellphone said a police officer at the scene of the crash Wednesday on Interstate 25 near Santa Fe said he saw a woman get out of Jaramillo’s car but no other person, news outlets reported Friday.
Police said after the crash they were searching for a suspect described by Jaramillo as a man she’d dated briefly and that he had abducted her from an apartment complex following an argument.
Jaramillo, 46, told KOB-TV during an interview on Friday that she was abducted, feared for her life and didn’t see the man get out of her crashed car because she blacked out briefly, the television station reported.
“My life has been pretty rough lately and I haven’t made the best choices in relationships at all,” Jaramillo told KOB-TV when asked about those incidents, which occurred in Cibola County in September and October.
The victims in Wednesday’s crash were: Officer Robert Duran, 43, who was part of the pursuit; and Frank Lovato, a 62-year-old retired firefighter from the northern New Mexico city of Las Vegas. | 2022-03-06T04:19:28Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/womans-carjacking-account-under-scrutiny-in-deadly-crash | https://www.kxxv.com/news/womans-carjacking-account-under-scrutiny-in-deadly-crash |
Big city dreams: Waco stylists make it to New York Fashion Week
WACO, Texas — From a small salon in Waco to New York Fashion Week, hairdressers Jessica Gudino and Marybel Yepez have really seen their careers take off.
"I always said since I was little, you make your career as big as you want to," Gudino said.
"Even though it's just cosmetology, you make it as big."
Gudino and Yepez are stylists at the Wild Roots Salon and Boutique located in Waco.
Recently, they took their talents to New York City for one of fashion's biggest nights of the year.
"It was amazing," Yepez said.
"It's just mind-opening and exciting and just different. Something different from what we're used to just doing hair behind the chair."
The stylists participated in NYFW after being chosen from an interview and a review of past clients' pictures on their social media.
"It's something that you just don't even think you can do, like just from doing hair," Yepez said of the experience.
"It's incredible."
Yepez said whether it's models for a fashion show or clients at the salon, her passion for the work stays the same.
"My favorite part would be just making somebody feel better about themselves," she said.
"They come in and just want a change or a different look. Making people feel more confident in themselves, not everybody can say that about their jobs."
For Gudino, she joined the profession after some advice from her father and then just completely fell in love.
"He asked me 'do you want to go to school for cosmetology?' and I was like 'sure, why not?'. I went and graduated within ten months. From then it's been 20 years and I love it," she said.
They were selected as part of thirty hairdressers chosen from around the world for this unique opportunity; only 15 were selected from the United States.
The two said this was a dream come true for them and they were happy to represent Waco together on such a large platform.
They are now preparing to head back to New York for another round of shows in September. | 2022-03-07T01:52:44Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/big-city-dreams-waco-stylists-make-it-to-new-york-fashion-week | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/big-city-dreams-waco-stylists-make-it-to-new-york-fashion-week |
Cold front arrives tonight bringing rain and cooler weather
CENTRAL TEXAS — A cold front is sitting just to our northwest and it will be making its way through the region tonight. In fact, Waco and Killeen could encounter the front before midnight. As it passes through, it will bring a band of showers and a few thunderstorms. None of the storms will be strong. All the rain will have left the area by mid-morning tomorrow.
The front will bring some much cooler weather. Morning temperatures will range through the 40s, then warming up only to the 50s for tomorrow afternoon. The good news is the cloud cover may be heading out by the afternoon. Temperatures will drop into the mid-30s on Tuesday morning. However, there should be a slow warm up, bringing us some 70s on Thursday. That will also be short-lived as another cold front passes through Thursday night. It could result in sub-freezing temperatures on Saturday morning. | 2022-03-07T01:52:50Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/cold-front-arrives-tonight-bringing-rain-and-cooler-weather | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/cold-front-arrives-tonight-bringing-rain-and-cooler-weather |
(Chicago Police Department via AP, File)
FILE - This January 2018, file photo provided by the Chicago Police Department shows Marilyn Hartman. The 70-year-old woman with a history of slipping past security at airports and sneaking onto flights was sentenced on Thursday, March 3, 2022, to more than three years in prison for trespassing at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport in 2019. | 2022-03-07T03:50:05Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/airport-serial-stowaway-pleads-guilty-gets-3-plus-years | https://www.kxxv.com/news/airport-serial-stowaway-pleads-guilty-gets-3-plus-years |
Under a blazing blue sky, Harris linked arms with rank-and-file activists from the civil rights movement and led thousands across the bridge where, on March 7, 1965, white state troopers attacked Black voting rights marchers attempting to cross. The images of violence at the Edmund Pettus Bridge — originally named for a Confederate general — shocked the nation and helped galvanize support for the passage of the Voting Rights Act.
Among those gathered Sunday, were rank-and-file activists from the 1965 march. Harris walked across the bridge beside Charles Mauldin, who was sixth in line behind Lewis on Bloody Sunday and was beaten with a nightstick.
The supporters of the end of preclearance said the requirement — while necessary in the 1960s — was no longer needed. Voting rights activists have warned the end of preclearance is emboldening states to pass a new wave of voting restrictions. The proposed Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act would restore the preclearance requirement and put nationwide standards for how elections operate — such as making Election Day a national holiday and allowing early voting nationwide. | 2022-03-07T03:50:17Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/kamala-harris-marks-bloody-sunday-anniversary-in-selma | https://www.kxxv.com/news/kamala-harris-marks-bloody-sunday-anniversary-in-selma |
Scott, the leader of the GOP’s Senate midterm efforts, released an 11-point plan late last month that would impose a modest tax increase for many of the lowest-paid Americans, while opening the door for cutting Social Security and Medicare. The Senate Democrats’ political arm released a radio ad within 24 hours declaring, “If Senate Republicans win, we pay the price.” | 2022-03-07T12:40:35Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/republican-unforced-errors-threaten-path-to-senate-control | https://www.kxxv.com/news/republican-unforced-errors-threaten-path-to-senate-control |
FILE - Russian President Vladmir Putin, left, and British Prime Minister David Cameron watch the judo during the men's 100-kg judo competition at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Aug. 2, 2012, in London. The International Judo Federation has removed the titles and jobs Vladimir Putin and long-time Kremlin-supporting oligarch Arkady Rotenberg held at the organization, the governing body said in a statement late Sunday March 6, 2022. | 2022-03-07T14:55:16Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/judo-federation-removes-titles-from-putin-russian-oligarch | https://www.kxxv.com/news/judo-federation-removes-titles-from-putin-russian-oligarch |
Reward increased for March’s 'featured' Texas fugitive
AUSTIN – The reward for a “Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive” sought for sexual assault of a child has been increased.
Mark Bishop. 49, who is this month’s “featured fugitive,” has been wanted since July 2021.
Information leading to Bishop’s arrest could be worth $8,500 if tips are received during the month of March, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
In July 2021, Tulia police issued two warrants for continuous sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child. In addition, the Texas County Sheriff’s Office in Oklahoma issued a warrant to revoke Bishop’s probation for "five counts of knowingly downloading child pornography."
Here’s the Texas Department of Public Safety’s news release in its entirety:
AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive James Mark Bishop, who is this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $8,500 for information leading to his arrest if tips are received during the month of March. Bishop, 49, is wanted for continuous sexual assault of a child, indecency with a child and knowingly downloading child pornography. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.
Bishop is 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs about 245 pounds. He is trained in martial arts and may be using false identifications. For more information or updates in the event of his arrest, view his wanted bulletin [dps.texas.gov].
Submit a web tip through the DPS website [dps.texas.gov] by selecting the fugitive you have information about then clicking on the link under their picture.
Submit a Facebook tip [m.facebook.com] by clicking the “SUBMIT A TIP” link (under the “About” section).
DPS investigators work with local law enforcement agencies to select fugitives for the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives and Sex Offenders Lists. You can find the current lists — with photos — on the DPS website [dps.texas.gov]. | 2022-03-07T17:02:36Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/reward-increased-for-marchs-featured-texas-fugitive | https://www.kxxv.com/news/reward-increased-for-marchs-featured-texas-fugitive |
BRYAN, Texas — Bryan police have identified a 20-year-old Texas man as the victim in a fatal shooting on Highway 21 early Saturday.
Keyshawn Brown, 20, of Brenham, was then found with a gunshot wound. He later was pronounced dead after officers tried life-saving measures, police said.
The case is being investigated as a homicide. No arrest has been announced. | 2022-03-07T19:03:01Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/krhd-contact-us/bryan-police-identify-victim-in-saturdays-fatal-highway-21-shooting | https://www.kxxv.com/krhd-contact-us/bryan-police-identify-victim-in-saturdays-fatal-highway-21-shooting |
Showers/Chilly Tuesday
Ups & Downs All Week
25 WEATHER — This week will be an all over the place March week. Tonight will be partly to mostly cloudy with lows in the mid to upper 30s. Showers will increase across the area Tuesday, with the highest concentration east of I-35. Rain amounts look rather light, but at least it's something! It will be chilly with the clouds and showers Tuesday. Highs will only make it into the mid to upper 40s.
Wednesday and Thursday bring south winds and warmer temperatures back to the area. Temperatures will rise into the low 60s Wednesday and around 70° Thursday. But it won't last...
Our next cold front should get here Thursday night. This will bring some very chilly air to the region on Friday. At the same time, an upper low will approach from the west. There are still some questions on how deep this system will be, but it does appear we will be cold enough for a wintry mix for areas north and west of Waco/Temple/Killeen as temperatures fall into the 30s. Right now it doesn't seem like this will be a big time winter event, since temperatures will be at or slightly above freezing at the surface. We will continue to watch this unfold as we get closer to the end of the week.
The weekend will bring a quick warm-up with highs in the 50s Saturday and back near 70° Sunday! | 2022-03-07T20:56:52Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/showers-chilly-tuesday | https://www.kxxv.com/weather/showers-chilly-tuesday |
Arrested in Russia: Waco prays for safe return of former Baylor basketball player
WACO, Texas — As controversy continues to unfold overseas, another issue close to Central Texas has come to the surface.
Former Baylor basketball player Brittney Griner was recently arrested near Moscow on apparent drug charges after airport authorities say they found cannabis oil vape cartilages in her suitcase.
Brittney's story has caught the attention of many people across the county, including U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), who represents Griner's hometown of Houston. The congresswoman hosted a press briefing recently to show support for the former Baylor basketball player.
"Let me be very clear, Brittney Griner is a United States citizen," she said. "She was a guest in Russia with the WNBA, and I will be demanding her release."
Jackson Lee said she's spoken with the state department on what can be done to bring her home, but Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been very vague about those plans.
"Whenever an American is detained anywhere in the world, we, of course, stand ready to provide any available assistance, and that includes in Russia," Blinken said.
As the country deals with yet another Russian controversy, prayers have been pouring out of Waco for her safe return.
Baylor's women's basketball team released a statement on Monday: "The news of Brittney's detainment is obviously very alarming, and our thoughts and prayers are with BG and her family. Right now, our foremost concern is for her safety and well-being during this difficult time in Russia and her eventual safe return to the United States."
There has also been a Change.org petition for her safe return that has gotten a lot of attention. | 2022-03-07T22:44:39Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/arrested-in-russia-waco-prays-for-safe-return-of-former-baylor-basketball-player | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/arrested-in-russia-waco-prays-for-safe-return-of-former-baylor-basketball-player |
The soldiers deployed as part of the "7,000 U.S. military personnel earmarked to support the NATO Response Force announced February 24," according to III Corps and Fort Hood.
"These forces will augment U.S. forces in the European theater and are trained and equipped for various missions to reinforce the U.S. European Command posture on NATO’s eastern flank," said III Corps.
Families of soldiers who deployed on Monday were kept in the loop during the process, Ruedi said. | 2022-03-08T00:29:01Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/fort-hood/soldiers-from-fort-hood-deploy-to-assist-with-european-operations | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/fort-hood/soldiers-from-fort-hood-deploy-to-assist-with-european-operations |
Texas family of imprisoned former Marine to protest during Biden visit
By: Todd Unger , Khadeeja Umana
During President Biden's visit to Fort Worth on Tuesday, one family is planning a protest in support of Texas Marine Trevor Reed who's been imprisoned in Russia since 2019.
Biden's visit will “discuss supporting veterans as part of his Unity Agenda for the Nation," according to the White House. The Reed family tells 25 News the White House refused to let them meet with the Biden during his visit.
"We know he's a caring and compassionate man. If he saw us standing in the cold with signs of Trevor, and he knows who Trevor is, he might tell them to stop and talk with us," said Joey Reed, Trevor's dad.
Reed was arrested in Moscow in 2019, while visiting his girlfriend at the time, after police insisted he was drunk and aggressive following a house party.
The Reed's said once Russian authorities realized Trevor was a former standout marine, who’d even been posted to Camp David, they threw the book at him by inflating a host of “assault” charges.
After months behind bars awaiting a trial, Reed was found guilty of trumped-up charges and sentenced to nine years in a Russian prison camp. Some outside observers called the entire trial a "sham."
His family believes the entire case only went to trial once Russian authorities realized they had a former serviceman in custody.
Over the weekend, Paula and Joey Reed finally got a phone call from their son. It was the first direct contact they've had in months.
Trevor told his parents he is coughing up blood, may have tuberculosis, and feels weak.
"He had asked to be tested, to get medication that was given to some other prisoners there, but they refused him," says Paula, Trevor's mom.
The U.S. Ambassador to Russia has been working tirelessly for the former marine's release. President Biden broached the issue with Russian President Putin during their summit in June, but there has been no movement since that discussion.
"He didn’t do anything. He’s innocent. He wants us to always state that,” said Reed's father, Joey, during a 2021 interview with 25 News.
For more: 'He's innocent': Texas family of imprisoned former US Marine demands his release. | 2022-03-08T00:29:07Z | www.kxxv.com | 1 weather alerts 1 closings/delays | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-family-of-imprisoned-former-marine-to-protest-during-biden-visit | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/texas-family-of-imprisoned-former-marine-to-protest-during-biden-visit |
Free will, mental illness: Day 6 of Dabrett Black murder trial continues with neurologist testimony
BRYAN, Texas — Monday was potentially the shortest day in court to be seen yet for the Dabrett Black homicide case, as the jury was dismissed by 2:30 p.m. after hearing from two of the defense’s witnesses.
Black’s defense lawyers opened day six of trial by calling a former battle buddy of Black’s, Army veteran Randy Newman of Cincinnati, to the stand. Newman testified as to witnessing Black’s decline in mental health over time, though he considered Black an outstanding soldier who saved lives.
Newman also noted from his own experience, that during this time in the Iraq War, soldiers were discouraged by their peers from seeking mental health treatment.
The question of Black’s mental state at the time of killing Texas State Trooper Damon Allen in November 2017 has been one of great debate throughout this trial, with Black’s defense team heavily dissecting the traumatic effects of three deployments and military culture. The defense has emphasized the notion that the post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and schizoaffective disorder Allen was diagnosed with, affected his capabilities to react reasonably.
The prosecution, conversely, has stood steadfast in their assertions that though Allen’s military service and mental health are relevant topics for sentencing, they bear no meaning on his guilt or innocence, as this case is not one of insanity.
Dr. Jeffrey David Lewine, a neurobiologist, testified over brain scans taken from Black in 2019. Lewine’s testimony included a PowerPoint with educational diagrams, images from Black’s tests, and graphs and charts comparing Black’s brain to a neurotypical person. These scans showed Black’s brain had experienced significant patterns of effect that matched his diagnoses of PTSD, schizoaffective disorder, and a TBI resulting in axonal damage and White Matter Hyper Intensities.
The prosecution continued to stress that Black’s defense is not one of insanity and that scientific experts can’t read what was on his mind the day he shot Allen. The prosecution questioned Lewine’s research, concerned that brain scan representations were colored to appear more extreme, though Lewine described the method of image development as a pre-set standard used worldwide.
The prosecution also was concerned about Lewine ignoring Black’s alcohol and drug abuse in the military, but Lewine stated that drug use prior to Black’s arrest would not have much effect on the brain scans performed two years later. Prosecutors also asked if Lewine was attempting to read the defendant’s mind from the time he killed Trooper Allen and asked him to discuss the concept of free will despite neurological deficits.
"In my opinion there is free, will but free will is filtered through the brain... anything that is free will has to be filtered through the brain and acted through the brain,” Lewine said, also noting he would not speculate as to what Black was thinking when he shot the officer in 2017.
The jury was released early, as the defense presented their case to include an additional expert witness, the defense giving what’s called an offer of proof: their response to the prosecution’s objection to the admissibility of evidence with this witness. The witness in question had been dismissed last Tuesday by the judge, deemed irrelevant and a distraction to the case. This witness, a sociologist studying military institutions, reviewed Black’s military service record and would have testified as to all of the incidents of combat Black saw, and the topic of re-acculturation into civilian life.
The trial will continue at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday morning in the Brazos County Courthouse, with the introduction of at least two more witnesses, according to a comment made to the judge by the defense. | 2022-03-08T05:29:01Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/free-will-mental-illness-day-6-of-dabrett-black-murder-trial-continues-with-neurologist-testimony | https://www.kxxv.com/brazos/free-will-mental-illness-day-6-of-dabrett-black-murder-trial-continues-with-neurologist-testimony |
WOODWAY, Texas — Hillary Albrecht has overcome a hearing impairment to pursue her dream of teaching music.
At just 12 months old, Albrecht developed chronic ear infections.
Bad advice and bad prescriptions led to hospitalizations and nerve damage.
By the age of 10, Albrecht says hearing in her right ear was muffled. Her left ear was completely deaf.
“Surgery was awful because every time I went in it meant general anesthesia, my head was getting shaved, and I was sick as a dog,” she said.
But through this time of sickness, something else was happening to Albrecht.
While her hearing was slowly fading — her love for music was exploding.
In high school, Albrecht played saxophone in band.
She relied on muscle memory and rhythm when she couldn’t hear herself in the group.
After she completed undergrad, she decided to go back to school to study music.
Albrecht earned her second B.A. through sheer grit.
“I don’t think there was a lesson for like the first semester where I didn’t cry," she said.
"I had huge imposter syndrome.
"I thought I do not belong here. I had a lot less training, major hearing issues, plus my husband was in school and I had a toddler.
"I thought, ‘This is a joke. I know this is.’
"But I had a teacher who really believed in me, and he said, ‘It’s not! Why can’t you do this?’ And if someone tells you that enough — you start to believe them.”
At age 17, Albrecht received her first hearing aid.
It’s a cochlear sound processor that sends audio vibrations directly to her brain.
But the technology was first-generation, and the microphone couldn’t process loud sounds very well — including the sound of her piano.
“Guts and glory — it might take everything you’ve got to make it through." she said.
"And it did take everything I had to make it through for a long time to feel like I could make it through. And I did! And I’m better because of it.”
Her degree helped open the door for Albrecht to pursue her dream of teaching music.
Today, she runs a private music school called Rhapsody on Mars in Woodway.
“I really like her a lot, and I feel like this is a perfect setup,” said piano student Ellianna Hetlend.
“She really likes music and she’s really into it. She’s also very patient so that makes it easier to learn.”
Then, three years ago, another medical breakthrough.
Albrecht upgraded to a cochlear sound processor that could pick up the tones of her piano.
Suddenly the music that had been inspiring her students for more than a decade, she heard in a whole new way.
“I sat down at my piano, and I just cried. I didn’t know that it sounded like that,” said Albrecht. “I knew it sounded good, but I didn’t know it sounded that good.”
Albrecht said since she’s become an adult, she’s seen the Cochlear community around the world come together to support each other.
A highlight each year is a concert in Poland for musicians with hearing disorders.
This year, Albrecht says she plans to audition. | 2022-03-08T16:47:16Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/local-musician-overcomes-hearing-loss-to-pursue-dream-of-teaching-music | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/mclennan-county/local-musician-overcomes-hearing-loss-to-pursue-dream-of-teaching-music |
FLORENCE, Ala. (AP) — A second case of a disease that’s deadly to deer has been found in Lauderdale County in northwest Alabama, a state agency said, prompting stricter rules about feeding wildlife.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said Monday it was banning baiting and supplemental feeding practices in Lauderdale and Colbert counties in an attempt to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease, which was first found in the state in January.
The initial detection prompted testing measures, and the agency said samples were taken from 966 white-tailed deer killed in the two counties during the hunting season. One additional case of the illness was detected, and the state said that was enough to impose additional rules.
The disease, which affects the behavior of deer because of microscopic changes in the brain, previously was detected in neighboring Tennessee and Mississippi in 2018. A deer can carry the disease for years without symptoms, and in later stages, it may cause listlessness, lowering of the head, weight loss, walking in patterns and unresponsiveness. | 2022-03-08T16:47:59Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/second-case-of-deadly-deer-disease-found-in-nw-alabama | https://www.kxxv.com/news/second-case-of-deadly-deer-disease-found-in-nw-alabama |
FILE - In this Sunday, April 11, 2021, file photo, Britain's Prince Andrew speaks. during a television interview at the Royal Chapel of All Saints at Royal Lodge, Windsor, England, Sunday, April 11, 2021. A lawsuit by an American who claims Prince Andrew sexually abused her when she was 17 might have to be thrown out because she no longer lives in the U.S., lawyers for the Prince said in a court filing Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021. (Steve Parsons/Pool Photo via AP, File) | 2022-03-08T20:37:57Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/news/judge-asked-to-end-prince-andrew-sex-abuse-lawsuit | https://www.kxxv.com/news/judge-asked-to-end-prince-andrew-sex-abuse-lawsuit |
Bryan police said they were dispatched around 1:30 a.m. Friday morning to a home on William J Bryan Parkway for burglary of a habitation. Police said the 11-year-old girl's father called police after their daughter told her parents that there was a naked man in her room who touched her over her clothing.
According to a probable cause statement, 37-year-old Randy Greer Jr. was arrested for indecency with a child sexual contact, burglary of a habitation with intent to commit sexual offense, and obstruction.
Greer allegedly broke into the family home to engage in the sexual contact and when the girl screamed he ran away, leaving his clothes behind. Greer also left behind a backpack with a booking photo of himself, according to the probable cause statement.
Greer was arrested Friday morning after he was located on Baker Avenue wearing a bed sheet, boxers, and tennis shoes, according to police. | 2022-03-08T22:26:27Z | www.kxxv.com | ') } | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/bryan-police-arrest-man-for-breaking-into-home-inappropriately-touching-child | https://www.kxxv.com/hometown/texas/bryan-police-arrest-man-for-breaking-into-home-inappropriately-touching-child |
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