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Christmas dinner boxes passed out to those in need(WSAZ)
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - The countdown to Christmas is on, but putting food on the table isn’t always easy.
Mountain Mission passed out hundreds of Christmas dinner boxes for families on Saturday morning.
For people like Brandon Hanning, not having to worry about the stress of buying food needed for Christmas means the world.
“It’s tremendous because I didn’t think we’re going to have a Christmas dinner,” Hanning said. “We were going to have to find friends to go to eat, but with what they give out... it allows us to cook for our own little family.”
Mountain Mission Executive Director John Roberts describes this program as their super bowl.
“We have over 930 families we’re going to feed this Christmas season,” Roberts said.
Armed with dozens of volunteers and boxes of food, Roberts said today is about giving back to those most in need.
For volunteers like Tim DiPiero, he said this is what the holiday season is all about.
“These people are great people, they just got down on their luck a little bit, and we’re just happy to be able to help,” DiPiero said.
All the families picking up food Saturday morning were pre-approved by Mountain Mission, but if you are in need of help, they encourage you to stop by their offices. | 2022-12-18T05:40:44Z | www.wsaz.com | Christmas dinner boxes distributed to hundreds of families | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/18/christmas-dinner-boxes-distributed-hundreds-families/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/18/christmas-dinner-boxes-distributed-hundreds-families/ |
Wynonna Judd will be joined by Tanya Tucker and Martina McBride when she performs at Charleston Coliseum in Charleston, WV, on February 18, 2023.(The Judds: The Final Tour)
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Country music icon, Wynonna Judd, recently announced that The Judds: The Final Tour will be continuing on in 2023 thanks to the overwhelming love and support of fans.
Wynonna enlisted the talents of some of Nashville’s brightest stars - joining her as the 2023 run stops in Charleston, West Virginia will be Tanya Tucker and Martina McBride.
The Judds: The Final Tour coming to Charleston | 2022-12-19T16:58:35Z | www.wsaz.com | Wynonna Judd announces special guests for 2023 concert in Charleston | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/wynonna-judd-announces-special-guests-2023-concert-charleston/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/wynonna-judd-announces-special-guests-2023-concert-charleston/ |
Symmes Valley High School E-Sports team takes home $1,500 in first championship(WSAZ)
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ohio (WSAZ) - A teenager’s dream come true -- a world where school and video games collide.
A new after-school e-sports program at Symmes Valley High School lets students compete in video game tournaments with schools across the country.
“Not every kid wants to play traditional sports,” said instructor Nic Allen. “I could tell you if this was around when I was a kid, I would have been all aboard.”
Allen loves video games and worked with other teachers to bring a program that’s both competitive and educational.
The program implements STEM learning with online modules, and the tournaments offer incentives to win cash.
Their first championship was a huge success, bringing home $1,500 among four of their players.
“That was a huge deal for us. We knew we were going to win money if someone took home a victory. We just didn’t know how much,” Allen said. “People don’t realize how much money there is in college scholarships for e-sports.”
“It’s really exciting,” said e-sports player Javin Damron. “I couldn’t even fathom that we could get that much money.”
The program helps students explore non-traditional careers like video game and web design.
It’s a part of a nationwide trend, e-sports offering a competitive outlet for kids who may not be interested in regular sports.
“I’ve seen schools from Brooklyn, all the way down to Florida,” Damron said. “It’s crazy. It’s a good hobby we’re able to show other people.”
“The sky’s the limit with this stuff,” Allen said. “This is just the beginning for e-sports in this area, and I really do think it’s going to take off.”
Allen hopes to get other schools in the tri-state area involved to create a bigger local competition moving forward.
Symmes Valley December 2022 E-Sports Championship Winners:
Eric Simpson - Mario Kart ($500)
Kyler Brown - Super Smash Brothers ($500)
Levi Castle - NBA 2k22 ($250)
Kendrick Delawder - Rocket League ($250) | 2022-12-19T21:32:58Z | www.wsaz.com | Symmes Valley High School e-sports team takes home $1,500 in first championship | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/symmes-valley-high-school-e-sports-team-takes-home-1500-first-championship/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/symmes-valley-high-school-e-sports-team-takes-home-1500-first-championship/ |
(Solen Feyissa / CC BY-SA 2.0)
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – West Virginia Senate Majority Whip is requesting Gov. Jim Justice issue an executive order that would prohibit the downloading and use of the Chinese-owned apps TikTok and WeChat on state government phones, computers, and other devices.
Senate Majority Whip Ryan Weld’s, (R-Brooke), letter to Gov. Justice comes as at least sixteen other states and several federal agencies ban these apps citing security threats.
“As a former Air Force intelligence officer, I am all too familiar with the significant threats this nation faces from cyberattacks and how sensitive personal and government information is gained through them,” Senator Weld wrote in the letter. “I am also acutely aware of the fact that many of the individuals and organizations behind these types of attacks are located within the People’s Republic of China - acting either in an official government or military capacity, or as state-sanctioned third parties.”
Senate Majority Whip Ryan Weld (R-Brooke)
Gov. Justice sent the following response to Sen. Weld’s letter concerning TikTok, WeChat, and other applications on government-issued devices:
“The Governor understands and shares Senator Weld’s concerns as they relate to our state’s cybersecurity resiliency, and especially his concern of foreign influence,” Gov. Justice said. “The good news is there are policies and procedures already in place which are designed to protect our state networks from cyber threats related to Chinese-owned TikTok and related apps. Josh Spence, our Chief Information Officer, and his team constantly monitor and implement cybersecurity policies and technical controls to mitigate cyber risk, protecting government-owned devices and the network as a whole. TikTok has already been blocked on state networks for many months, and the use of additional security controls further mitigates the risk. The Governor has confidence in his cybersecurity team to protect our state networks from cyber threats and to communicate best practices to cybersecurity teams across other branches of state and local government. It’s important to keep in mind that TikTok is hardly the only threat—there are millions of cyber events targeting the state from all over the world thwarted each year by our cybersecurity team.”
A TikTok spokesperson released the following statement to WSAZ.com Monday:
“We’re disappointed that so many states are jumping on the political bandwagon to enact policies based on unfounded falsehoods about TikTok that will do nothing to advance the national security of the United States. TikTok is loved by millions of Americans, state agencies, and universities in those states who use the platform to learn, grow their businesses, and connect with their communities. We will continue to brief state and federal officials on the plans that have been developed under the oversight of our country’s top national security agencies—plans that we are well underway in implementing—to further secure our platform in the United States.” | 2022-12-19T22:11:25Z | www.wsaz.com | Lawmaker asks W.Va. Gov. to ban TikTok on government devices | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/lawmaker-asks-wva-gov-ban-tiktok-government-devices/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/lawmaker-asks-wva-gov-ban-tiktok-government-devices/ |
Man sentenced to prison for Huntington bar shooting(WDTV)
HUNTINGTON, W.Va., (WSAZ) - A man who had pleaded guilty to federal charges for a shooting at a downtown Huntington bar that injured seven people in January 2020 was sentenced Monday to eight years in prison.
Kymoni Davis, who’s is his early 30s, of Redford, Michigan, was a three-time convicted felon who illegally possessed a firearm, investigators say.
They say Davis fired seven shots into the Kulture Hookah Bar in the 1100 block of Fourth Avenue after being thrown out of a New Year’s Eve party there earlier that night.
Seven people were injured in the shooting.
Man pleads guilty to federal gun crime in connection with Huntington bar shooting | 2022-12-19T22:11:31Z | www.wsaz.com | Man sentenced to prison for Huntington bar shooting | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/man-sentenced-prison-huntington-bar-shooting/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/man-sentenced-prison-huntington-bar-shooting/ |
Crash involving box truck closes part of U.S. 52(WSAZ with permission)
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ohio (WSAZ) - A crash Monday evening involving a box truck closed the westbound lanes of U.S. 52 near the intersection of Township Road 268, Lawrence County 911 dispatchers say.
Injuries are reported, but the extent is unknown.
The accident was reported after 5 p.m., about a mile east of the double bridges that link Lawrence County with Ashland, Kentucky. | 2022-12-19T23:03:37Z | www.wsaz.com | Crash involving box truck closes part of U.S. 52 | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/crash-involving-box-truck-closes-part-us-52/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/19/crash-involving-box-truck-closes-part-us-52/ |
Huntington woman dies in Indiana crash(MGN)
INDIANAPOLIS (WSAZ) - A woman from Huntington died Monday afternoon in a crash on Interstate 74 in Indianapolis, NBC affiliate WTHR reports.
The station says Kathleen Bunyer, 63, was a passenger in an SUV that rear-ended a stopped tractor-trailer and rolled several times.
Bunyer died at the scene, according to WTHR.
The accident was reported around 2:30 p.m. in the westbound lanes, just east of the Acton Road exit.
WTHR said the driver of the SUV was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The station reports the semi driver was not injured.
According to WTHR, the tractor-trailer was partly in the roadway from an earlier accident. | 2022-12-20T04:16:41Z | www.wsaz.com | Huntington woman dies in Indiana crash | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/20/huntington-woman-dies-indiana-crash/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/20/huntington-woman-dies-indiana-crash/ |
FRANKFORT, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Catastrophic flooding rocked Eastern Kentucky communities in the summer of 2022.
Forty people were killed in the flooding.
“”I admit it’s going to take a bit longer in eastern Kentucky then western because it’s not safe to go back to that same place,” Beshear said. “We can’t rebuild a home that we know will flood again and that family might not make it out the next time.”
The governor said the initial building site is located in the community of Talcum, in Knott County near the Perry County line. The state initially secured 75 acres and can expand that to nearly 300 acres, which means the land not only provides a place to rebuild but is a place to grow for the future and attract new businesses. This is the first of several locations in Eastern Kentucky that are being considered for rebuilding projects. The state is currently evaluating multiple sites in four counties: Breathitt, Knott, Letcher and Perry. These counties combined account for 75% of the homes lost to flood damage.
What’s being done to make sure these families have a home beyond four walls?
Kimberly Keagy, WSAZ Reporter | 2022-12-21T00:04:14Z | www.wsaz.com | Eastern Kentucky’s road to recovery after flooding | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/20/eastern-kentuckys-road-recovery-after-flooding/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/20/eastern-kentuckys-road-recovery-after-flooding/ |
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - A classic Christmas story is coming to life in Huntington this week, and you’ll see a familiar face on the stage.
Michael Valentine stopped by First Look at Four to talk about “The Good Time Christmas Carol,” starring Tim Irr as Ebenezer Scrooge.
You can get tickets here. | 2022-12-21T14:38:41Z | www.wsaz.com | “The Good Time Christmas Carol” opens in Huntington this week | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/good-time-christmas-carol-opens-huntington-this-week/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/good-time-christmas-carol-opens-huntington-this-week/ |
PRESTONSBURG, Ky (WSAZ) - Detectives are investigating a persons death following a fire.
According to Prestonsburg Police, on Sunday, December 18, officers and fire crews responded to Jane Brown Branch in reference to a fire.
During the investigation, a person was located outside the home. The person was transported to University of Louisville Medical Center where they passed away. | 2022-12-21T20:43:42Z | www.wsaz.com | Death investigation underway following fire | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/death-investigation-underway-following-fire/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/death-investigation-underway-following-fire/ |
Part of I-64 bridge history removed(WV Department of Transportation)
KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Part of Interstate 64 history in West Virginia came down Wednesday, as the main span of the old Nitro-St. Albans Bridge was lowered onto a barge.
According to a release from Gov. Jim Justice’s office, the section of the Donald M. Legg Memorial Bridge, which is 250 feet long and weighs nearly 1.7 million pounds, will be transferred for recycling.
The bridge has been open since 1962, serving drivers for six decades.
“The section was lowered using strand jacks, the same method used to raise the Nitro WWI Memorial Bridge main span,” the release said.
“Lowering this center section to get it to the side allows them to reach the other sections with the cranes they have to cut it into pieces and demo it,” said Carl Davis, the project supervisor for consultant Mead & Hunt, in the release. “By demoing the bridge, it allows us to also demo part of the existing piers to rebuild and build the new eastbound structure back in the place it is now.”
The release went on to say, “The new Nitro WWI Memorial Bridge, which opened on Friday, Oct. 28, 2022, currently carries both eastbound and westbound traffic. Following the dismantling of the old Donald M Legg Memorial bridge, a new one will be constructed in its place to carry eastbound traffic.
The bridge work is part of an overall project to widen I-64 and remove a bottleneck area where an increase in traffic volumes during the years has led to delays.
It is part of Governor Justice’s Road to Prosperity program -- with the 3.9-mile long project including seven bridges in that section of I-64. | 2022-12-21T22:15:09Z | www.wsaz.com | Part of I-64 bridge history comes down | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/part-i-64-bridge-history-comes-down/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/part-i-64-bridge-history-comes-down/ |
By WSAZ News Staff
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - West Virginia’s Attorney General is sending out a warning about a scam that often surfaces during the holiday season.
Attorney General Patrick Morrisey urges residents to be wary of calls claiming grandchildren need help.
Scammers have been known to call senior citizens pretending to be their grandchild.
Others claim to be law enforcement with news about a loved one. They often indicate the grandchild in question is in another state or country and in dire need of money due to an emergency. Schemers have also been known to use the holiday travel season to scam senior citizens with calls that their loved one is stuck somewhere in route to visit and needs money.
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a scam should contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 800-368-8808. | 2022-12-21T22:15:15Z | www.wsaz.com | WV Attorney General warns about ‘grandparent scam’ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/wv-attorney-general-warns-about-grandparent-scam/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/wv-attorney-general-warns-about-grandparent-scam/ |
Former 911 dispatcher faces federal charges for 24 arson fires(WITN)
GALLIA COUNTY, Ohio (WSAZ) - A former 911 dispatcher in Gallia County faces federal charges in connection with nearly 24 arson fires set in Wayne National Forest since the spring of this year, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Ohio’s Southern District.
Investigators say James A. Bartels, 50, of Patriot, Ohio, also was a fire department administrator.
Bartels was arrested Tuesday and appeared in federal court in Columbus.
According to the release, Bartels is an administrator at the Greenfield Township Volunteer Fire Department.
Investigators say a truck registered to Bartels was seen Oct. 29 near Wayne National Forest and Bartels was seen on Dry Ridge Road. Within an hour, a brush fire was reported near Dry Ridge Road and Cauley Creek Road.
The release says, “In the days after Bartels’s Nov. 8 resignation from working as a 911 dispatcher for Gallia County, at least 17 fires were lit. Bartels was seen at two separate locations in the vicinity of multiple fire starts within minutes of their ignition.”
Bartels allegedly told investigators he started the fires with a lighter to “give the boys something to do” and as a distraction from being depressed.
Also, according to the release, Bartels identified 24 arson fires for which he was responsible. His truck’s infotainment system data also placed him at the locations of the fires.
Bartels is schedule for a preliminary hearing in U.S. District Court on Jan. 3, 2023, in Columbus. | 2022-12-21T22:54:19Z | www.wsaz.com | Former 911 dispatcher faces federal charges for 24 arson fires | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/former-911-dispatcher-faces-federal-charges-24-arson-fires/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/former-911-dispatcher-faces-federal-charges-24-arson-fires/ |
Salvation Army of Northeast Kentucky short of reaching red kettle goal
ASHLAND, Ky. (WSAZ) - The Salvation Army of Northeast Kentucky is gearing up for an increase in demand for their services with the dropping temperatures.
“Anytime the temperature drops below freezing, we have our shelter open at 2212 Carter Avenue in Ashland, for anyone that needs to get out of the cold,” said Major Jason Swain. “With these frigid temperatures, it’s extremely dangerous to be exposed to the elements for even a short period of time. So we are urging all those without shelter to come in. We have hot meals and drinks to warm you up, too.”
Something you might not expect to be impacted by the cold is red kettle donations.
The cold conditions coincide with the end of the famous Red Kettle season on Christmas Eve, which will make conditions difficult for volunteer bellringers at retail locations.
Donations from the red kettle campaign help fund the Angel Christmas Tree Program, provide utility and rent assistance throughout the year, and cover operating costs for the Salvation Army’s emergency shelter.
“It’s hope. It’s love and peace. In a certain way, they can come, have a safe place to stay at night and have facilities to clean their body, and have food again for their soul. Those red kettles make all that possible,” said Major Jason Swain of the Salvation Army of Northeast Kentucky chapter.
The nonprofit is 25% short of reaching its red kettle goal campaign.
“We’re about $15,000 away from reaching our goal,” Swain said. ”Even pennies help ... We aren’t to close down, but it might make us make some different choices.”
With rising inflation and lingering effects from the pandemic, The Salvation Army in Northeast Kentucky has seen an approximate increase of 25% for its services this year.
In addition to the retail locations, donors can also give online at www.SalvationArmyAshland.org. The Salvation Army is a 501c(3) organization, meaning donations are tax-deductible, something to consider as we near the end of the year.
For any questions related to The Salvation Army’s services or to donate by phone or in person, please call (606) 329-2874 or visit the local office at 2212 Carter Avenue in Ashland. | 2022-12-21T23:46:38Z | www.wsaz.com | Salvation Army short of reaching red kettle campaign goal | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/salvation-army-short-reaching-red-kettle-campaign-goal/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/21/salvation-army-short-reaching-red-kettle-campaign-goal/ |
The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Charleston and Dunbar's Recreation center plan to open as warming centers.
KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - The weekend weather event will see temperatures dropping dramatically in just a few hours time.
Even if the air feels normally tolerable late Thursday night, that will change in just a few hours’ time.
For those who are used to sleeping in the streets, getting into a warm space could be a matter of life and death.
The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club of Charleston and Dunbar’s Recreation Center will serve as warming centers.
Margaret O’Neil, president of the United Way of Central West Virginia, said it is a team effort to get the homeless to safety.
“We do just encourage folks to find a friend, find a place to be safe,” she said. “This is not your typical, just a cold weather blast. This is really frigid temperatures that could be life-threatening.”
Chief Brian Oxley of the Dunbar Police Department said community members should know their warming center is open to everyone.
“Anytime inclement weather hits, we know it’s going to have a negative impact on community members,” he said. “All around and we want to try to stay ahead of the game and set up areas that will help members of the community.”
“There’s always a warm meal. We’ll have some snacks throughout the night, we try to make sure everybody has a coat. There’s a blanket on every card so people can take their blankets with him and they leave in the morning and we replaced those before the next night,” O’Neil said. “We have medical teams there in case people are already experiencing frostbite or have some other immediate medical need that needs to be addressed, it’s really a whole community effort.”
Oxley recommends anyone who may be unsure of the right steps to take to get out of a weather-related emergency to take advantage of the resources ... to prevent a potential tragedy.
“A lot of what we don’t want to happen is somebody to be stuck outside or be stuck in a house with no power, no heat or anything,” he said. “In this situation, the temperatures are going to drop so cold, the best thing to do is to come down and stay safe in the area that we’re providing because it can be dangerous for anybody.” | 2022-12-22T01:00:20Z | www.wsaz.com | Kanawha County warming shelters prepare for winter weather | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/22/kanawha-county-warming-shelters-prepare-winter-weather/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/22/kanawha-county-warming-shelters-prepare-winter-weather/ |
Power generator and space heater safety
KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - It’s about to get very cold, but whether you’re using a power generator or a space heater, it’s important to avoid accidents.
Early Wednesday morning, St. Albans firefighters rushed to control an apartment fire.
Once the fire was under control, Fire Marshal Chris Collins said they believe it was a power generator that started it.
“When the crews got there they found the fire was on the exterior of the building centralized around a small portable generator that the tenant was using to actually provide electricity for a unit,” Collins said.
Collins is hopeful these kinds of accidents can be avoided, especially with the drop in temperatures expected during the next few days.
He provided some tips, including not pouring gasoline into the generator while it’s running and making sure it’s not plugged into an extension cord.
“The thing to remember is they’re not dangerous when you use them within their listed use,” he said.
Generators aren’t the only thing to be careful about, as Sissonville firefighter Zack Bess said space heaters are great but they’re also very dangerous.
“Make sure you’re a couple feet away from any kind of surfaces,” he said. “Keep away from bedding curtains, and any kind of flammable materials. When you’re plugging them in, don’t plug them into extension cords or power strips because that can cause a fire.”
Additionally, Collins said fireplaces should also be serviced by a quality chimney expert each year. | 2022-12-22T04:59:28Z | www.wsaz.com | Power generator and space heater safety tips | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/22/power-generator-space-heater-safety-tips/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/22/power-generator-space-heater-safety-tips/ |
People are getting ready to celebrate the holiday season with their friends and families – and, for many, that may also include the arrival or gifting of a new pet.
For current and soon-to-be pet parents, there is a lot to consider.
Dr. Hunter Finn, a general practice veterinarian and owner of Pet Method Animal Hospital, and Brian Jorgensen, head of Metlife Pet Insurance, share insights on what you can expect. | 2022-12-22T17:06:24Z | www.wsaz.com | How to welcome pets into your home this holiday season | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/22/how-welcome-pets-into-your-home-this-holiday-season/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/22/how-welcome-pets-into-your-home-this-holiday-season/ |
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - From frigid temperatures to snow to potential power outages, a lot could happen as bad weather approaches.
Kanawha County Emergency Manager C.W. Sigman said with everything coming, the extreme cold is at the top of the list.
“I’m worried about those people who are unsheltered or need help because it’s not just cold, it’s going to be very brutal,” he said.
In Charleston, Public Works Director Brent Webster said they’re getting ready to roll their trucks Thursday night. But, with wet roads possible before potential snow, it makes things a bit more complicated.
“We’re just trying to time this thing out,” he said. “In events like this where it rains first, it’s very unfortunate because it’s very difficult to pretreat.”
Webster said they have 17 trucks at their disposal.
They’re getting on the roads tonight because with a few inches of snow possible plus cold temperatures, they know it’s going to get slick.
“The salt we use and probably most road salt starts losing its effectiveness at around 20,” Webster said.
“I recommend if you don’t have to be out in it, don’t be out in it,” Sigman said. “Stay home, let the salt crews work. Let the roads get cleared up before we get out.” | 2022-12-23T03:49:35Z | www.wsaz.com | Road crews prepare for incoming snowstorm | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/23/road-crews-prepare-incoming-snowstorm/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/23/road-crews-prepare-incoming-snowstorm/ |
New Year's Eve At The Loud
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - The year is almost over, but you can ring in 2023 with The Loud in Huntington.
Heath Holly and Buni Muni stopped by First Look at Four to talk about the line up for a show there on New Year’s Eve. | 2022-12-23T13:50:13Z | www.wsaz.com | New Year’s Eve at The Loud in Huntington | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/23/new-years-eve-loud-huntington/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/23/new-years-eve-loud-huntington/ |
Deep Freeze into Christmas Day
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -It has now been going on 2 days since the arctic snow and polar vortex set foot in our world. The bitter chill and snowpack left behind has set the stage for a second White Christmas in 3 years. Granted there has been enough blowing snow to shave the fine grains of snow away from some exposed areas, but the ground is white and most folks will awaken to the sensation of a White Christmas.
Wikipedia suggests “White Christmas” is an Irving Berlin song reminiscing about an old-fashioned Christmas setting. The song was written by Berlin for the 1942 musical film Holiday Inn. The composition won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 15th Academy Awards.
I personally think of Bing Crosby in 1954 who performed the title track for the movie White Christmas. White Christmas would go to sell 50 million copies making Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” the best-selling Christmas song of all time, it’s also the best-selling single ever, according to Guinness World Records.
OK weather-wise we will awaken to a 10 degree low temperature (colder in rural areas) with a bone-chilling wind chill of -10. Then as the overnight cloud cover and scattered flurry pattern retreats bluer skies will take hold by afternoon with an illuminating snow glare. Afternoon highs in the 20s will still be very cold but not nearly as harsh.
By Monday clouds will be increasing with a period of afternoon-evening light snow likely. A small accumulation (1/2″-1″) seems plausible as highs try to get back to freezing.
Tuesday will see the temperature crack freezing for the first time in 5 days on the way to a 40-ish degree high as the wind shifts to the south. Thereafter temperatures will climb the ladder reaching thr 40s, then 50s and even 60 would be possible later next week.
Finally, the lead up to New Years weekend looks wet and mild as moist air flows across much of America. | 2022-12-25T00:51:03Z | www.wsaz.com | White but frigid Christmas Day ahead | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/25/white-frigid-christmas-day-ahead/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/25/white-frigid-christmas-day-ahead/ |
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Christmas is tomorrow and many will have nowhere to go.
That’s why Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Huntington opened their doors for a Pre-Christmas dinner.
The church served hot food for those in need, and helped people escape the winter weather affecting the region.
“This is an important out reach mission. Especially on a day like today,” said Charles Warder, the project chairman. “We’re getting people coming in very hungry but also very cold.”
He said after today’s community dinner, people are already looking forward to next year’s Christmas to do it all again. | 2022-12-25T02:22:20Z | www.wsaz.com | Church hosts Christmas Eve dinner for those in need | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/25/church-hosts-christmas-eve-dinner-those-need/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/25/church-hosts-christmas-eve-dinner-those-need/ |
Kimball water treatment plant(WSAZ)
MCDOWELL COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - For decades, people in McDowell County, West Virginia have not had access to clean drinking water due to outdated infrastructure.
In December 2022, the head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Washington D.C., Michael Regan, toured the county to talk about clean water and funding to improve the system.
What many take for granted is hard to come by in McDowell County. “It’s 2022 and this is still happening,” said Tori Satow, a McDowell County resident. About two-thirds of the people in the county do not have access to clean drinking water.
“I feel like people that live here they’ve kind of learned to accept it like, ‘yeah we don’t have running water whatever,’ like hello people this is crazy. This is insane,” said Tori Satow. Satow lives in the town of Keystone. The town has been under a boil water advisory for ten years. “Most mornings you wouldn’t know when you woke up if you were going to have water in the sink or not. We’d go weeks sometimes without running water,” continued Satow.
A coal company built the original water system and after the company left the area, no one took control and the lines deteriorated.
“Your kid is filthy, your dishes are piled up, everything is dirty. It’s so much more than that. When you can’t wash your dishes, you can’t bathe your kid, you can’t do anything. You get set in this mindset of why bother do anything and you’re just sitting with all this filth around you,” said Satow.
The McDowell County Public Service District was created in 1990 and has spent the last few decades trying to consolidate and upgrade drinking water systems in the coal communities. The PSD started with 520 customers and now has up to 3,500 customers.
“You can’t get funding for all of them at one time so you just have to take it a piece at a time so that’s what we’re doing we’re trying to work together, one section at a time to make things happen in the county,” said Mavis Brewster, McDowell Public Service District General Manager.
The water treatment plant in the Kimball area is 120 years old. It is still in operation today. The plant provides about 300 customers with drinking water, but it’s in bad shape.
“As you can see the roof, the built-in shower back there. We’ve got these propped. I’d say that pump right there is somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 years old. It’s obsolete also so whenever it decides to fail we can’t get another pump like it,” said Randy Whittaker, PSD field supervisor.
A several-phase project is in the works to close out-of-date plants, but the projects take time and money.
“Phase four of this Elkhorn project will take four old systems just like the Kimball out of service and will be served by a new plant. If you did all four phases of the Elkhorn project coming down Route 52 it’s going to be about $30 million,” said Brewster.
With every grant and every project they connect more customers, but each time, water lines stop short of those in need.
“People call me and say you stopped just a mile before my house, but we went as far as the funding allowed us to go. That has to be another phase of a project,” said Brewster.
When the head of the EPA visited McDowell County, he spoke to those trying to find solutions.
“Every person in this country deserves access to clean drinking water. Our coal communities were our communities that during the industrial revolution helped keep this country as competitive as it could be. Now, they need federal assistance and a strong partnership. We’re here to provide that partnership,” said Michael Regan, EPA Administrator.
Regan vowed to help the county and connect every person with clean drinking water saying, “We have historic resources. It’s important we get these resources to the right communities and communities like McDowell County deserve these resources.”
The EPA Administrator said that West Virginia is set to receive $83 million for infrastructure improvements. At this time it is unclear how much will go to McDowell County. | 2022-12-26T20:33:03Z | www.wsaz.com | McDowell County PSD working to connect thousands without drinking water | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/26/mcdowell-county-psd-working-connect-thousands-without-drinking-water/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/26/mcdowell-county-psd-working-connect-thousands-without-drinking-water/ |
“I’ve taken phone calls from all over the county, we’ve agreed to pretty much we have not turned anybody away, I’ve taken phone calls about people with animals. I’ve taken phone calls about people with families,” Dunbar Police Chief Brian Oxley said.
“We had a mix of people who had no home, but also people who were having issues with their home all weekend we had people stopping in just to get warm while their stuff was being fixed. We had people who don’t have homes, we have people who have homes that may not have had the heat may not have had the proper even food and they were stopping in.”
“It’s a godsend”, a guest said.
The variety of stories is part of the motivation to keep the building open throughout the cold snap.
“My experience here this weekend, it’s a very humbling experience when you have all levels of people that need assistance, and that’s why we’re here. It doesn’t matter who you are, what you are, how you are, we’re going to make sure that you get the help that’s needed,” he said.
“We have the full facility, that’s one good thing about this rec center. It’s been a blessing this weekend because we’ve not only had like the mayor and city councilman that have volunteered, but we’ve had an outpouring of community members from our police reserves our CERT team, and neighborhood watch who have been here 24 hours a day since this opened and all it’s taken me is a text message or a phone call. And if we need food, we get food if we need a volunteer, we get a volunteer.”
Dunbar Recreation Center is located at 2601 Fairlawn Avenue in Dunbar. The building will be open as a Warming Center through noon on Tuesday, December 27. Proof of residence is not required. Volunteers are welcome and donations will be accepted. | 2022-12-26T23:48:32Z | www.wsaz.com | ‘It’s a godsend’ Dunbar Recreation Center extends hours amid cold spell | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/26/its-godsend-dunbar-recreation-center-extends-hours-amid-cold-spell/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/26/its-godsend-dunbar-recreation-center-extends-hours-amid-cold-spell/ |
Life Lessons: ARH is family in more ways than one for Sonya Wasserman and Caitlyn Hunt
Sponsored - The following content is created on behalf of Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) and does not reflect the opinions of Gray Media or its editorial staff. To learn more about Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH), visit https://www.arh.org.
SOUTH WILLIAMSON, KY. – Sonya Wasserman was a single mother with a 2-year-old daughter when she decided to make a change.
“My mom has always been there for me,” she says. “She’s always been my biggest cheerleader. She’s given me everything I ever needed.”
“Anything she was doing community service-wise, she would pull me in,” she says. “I helped with Christmas parties and visited residents. It feels like family there.”
“I’ve known Sonya (Wasserman) for probably 34 years now and I’ve watched Caitlyn grow up,” he says. “I’m very excited to know she will be joining us. It’s great to watch a second generation of ARH develop right before our eyes.”
“I still want to work in geriatrics,” she says. “I’m very attached to my position, my residents, my staff and to ARH. I don’t know what the future holds, but I know it will be a future with ARH.”
“I’m so very proud of her,” she says. “I’ll go to hers. That’s what moms do.” | 2022-12-27T15:20:54Z | www.wsaz.com | Life Lessons: ARH is family in more ways than one for Sonya Wasserman and Caitlyn Hunt | https://www.wsaz.com/sponsored/appalachian-regional-healthcare/life-lessons-arh-is-family-more-ways-than-one-sonya-wasserman-caitlyn-hunt/ | https://www.wsaz.com/sponsored/appalachian-regional-healthcare/life-lessons-arh-is-family-more-ways-than-one-sonya-wasserman-caitlyn-hunt/ |
Facing Hunger Food Bank distribution sees turnout after holiday weekend(WSAZ)
SOUTH POINT, Ohio (WSAZ) - Officials at Facing Hunger Food Bank (FHFB) say the food insecurity in Lawrence County is double the national average.
“That kind of statistic doesn’t take days off,” said Billy Edwards with FHFB. “We’re fighting a battle we feel like we can win with the community’s help, so we’re not going to take the days off.”
Many people in the region need help feeding more people as folks gather this time of year.
The line of cars wrapped around the parking lot of the Fayette Township fire station.
“A lot of people we served last week wouldn’t have had a Christmas meal without us,” Edwards said. “A lot of people we’re going to serve today may not eat dinner without the help from the program. That’s the program, that’s the food bank, that’s the community, everybody together.
Organizers say they’ve learned to gear up for a big turn out at every stop.
“You get to see the people that you may be the only people they talk to all week long,” Edwards said. “It’s super rewarding to hear and see the stories and see the smiles. These people are awesome.”
If you got some extra non-perishable goods or some unopened items you don’t have space for, or are trying to do a clean out before the new year. There are people who can use that food.
“We have bins set up for food drives all over the community,” Edwards said. “We’ll take anything non-perishable that you have extra.”
Every 2.1 pounds of food donated can be turned into a meal. | 2022-12-27T22:26:02Z | www.wsaz.com | Facing Hunger Food Bank distribution sees brisk turnout following holiday weekend | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/facing-hunger-food-bank-distribution-sees-brisk-turnout-following-holiday-weekend/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/facing-hunger-food-bank-distribution-sees-brisk-turnout-following-holiday-weekend/ |
Crews fight house fire in Cabell County(WSAZ)
CABELL COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Crews from multiple fire departments are on the scene Tuesday evening of a house fire in the Lesage area, Cabell County 911 dispatchers say.
The fire was reported just after 4:45 p.m. in the 7600 block of Union Ridge Road.
It’s unknown if anyone was inside the home when the fire started, but we have a crew headed to the scene.
Crews from Barboursville, Ohio River Road, and Ona volunteer fire departments are on the scene. | 2022-12-27T22:51:50Z | www.wsaz.com | Crews fight house fire in Cabell County | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/crews-fight-house-fire-cabell-county/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/crews-fight-house-fire-cabell-county/ |
Christmas tree drop-off locations in Lawrence County, Ohio
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ohio (WSAZ) - The Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District and Wayne National Forest are teaming up to recycle live Christmas trees that were used during the holiday season.
There will be various drop-off sites located throughout Lawrence County. All locations will be marked with a sign. Proctorville resident can use the site at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds at the Cedar Street entrance.
In South Point, a drop-off site is located at 408 2nd St. near the South Point Police Department. There is a site behind Coal Grove Village hall on Carlton-Davidson Lane.
In Hanging Rock, a site is located in a lot next to the former police department building. There is a site located at the junction of U.S. 52 and State Route 141 in front of Fruth Pharmacy in Ironton. In Pedro, there is a site at the Wayne National Forest Ranger Station at 6518 State Route 93 in Pedro.
“The main thing is that we just want to make sure people aren’t bringing in fake Christmas trees. We want to make sure they aren’t brining in regular branches or yard waste and that the trees are stripped of all ornaments,” said Seth Summers with the Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District.
Trees can be dropped off anytime before Jan. 9. They will then be collected and dumped into Lake Vesuvius to create a habitat for the fish that live in the lake.
“We’re all about recycling and any time we can take these and create something better with it, that is what we’re about,” Summers said. | 2022-12-27T23:09:13Z | www.wsaz.com | Christmas trees to be used for fish habitat at Lake Vesuvius | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/christmas-trees-be-used-fish-habitat-lake-vesuvius/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/christmas-trees-be-used-fish-habitat-lake-vesuvius/ |
Multi-vehicle crash temporarily closes I-64 West(MGN)
CABELL COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Interstate 64 West was temporarily closed Tuesday evening at the Merritts Creek exit after a crash involving several vehicles, Cabell County 911 dispatchers say.
As many as five vehicles were reported to be involved in the crash, which was reported just after 6 p.m. It was at the 18-mile marker.
While there was no word about possible injuries, our crew at the scene said the crash had been cleared and traffic was flowing again by 6:45 p.m.
The Barboursville Police Department was among agencies on the scene. | 2022-12-27T23:57:10Z | www.wsaz.com | Multi-vehicle crash temporarily closes I-64 West | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/multi-vehicle-crash-closes-i-64-west/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/27/multi-vehicle-crash-closes-i-64-west/ |
$70k worth of drugs discovered during bust(Scioto County Sheriff's Office)
PORTSMOUTH, Ohio (WSAZ) – A man from Dayton, Ohio and a woman from Portsmouth have been arrested on drug charges following an investigation by the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force.
Just before 6 p.m. on December 27, task force officers assisted by Portsmouth Police Department SWAT executed a search warrant for an apartment along Union Street in Portsmouth.
According to Portsmouth Police Chief Debby Brewer and Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman the estimated street value of the drugs found was approximately $70,000.
Officers seized 1,075 grams of suspected fentanyl, approximately 14 grams of suspected crack cocaine, digital scales, sandwich baggies, $613 worth of cash, a loaded firearm and additional evidence of drug trafficking.
Hope Bentley, 25, was arrested and charged with trafficking and possession of drugs.
Reginald Langford, 29, of Dayton, Ohio was arrested and charged with trafficking and possession of drugs and having weapons under disability.
Both Bentley and Langford were placed in the Scioto County Jail and were to be arraigned in Portsmouth Municipal Court. | 2022-12-28T22:42:31Z | www.wsaz.com | $70k worth of drugs discovered during bust | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/28/70k-worth-drugs-discovered-during-bust/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/28/70k-worth-drugs-discovered-during-bust/ |
PORTSMOUTH, Ohio (WSAZ) - The Collective Effervescence on the Ohio River project was one of 33 around the world selected to receive a prestigious micro-grant. The grant funding comes in the sum of $1,500 from the Burners Without Borders organization.
Portsmouth Mayor Sean Dunne was happy to hear that the local project was awarded the funding.
“The first steps are the hardest when it comes to raising money and just getting that first bit of acknowledgement and recognition goes a long way to attracting further contributions and fundraising,” Dunne said.
The project aims at creating regularly scheduled canoeing trips on the Ohio River in Portsmouth.
“One thing that I think we need to do is change the narrative around the Ohio River. We shouldn’t look at it as a source of disgust. Instead, we should look at it as this great resource for our city,” Dunne said.
Dunne says the funding will be a nice boost for the project that goes hand-in-hand with the city’s recent partnership with Ohio River Way, which connects Portsmouth to various cities up and down the river.
“We would like to bring people together from all different areas of the city to enjoy the river and also enjoy the company of others that they may not normally meet. I think it is a great way to appreciate the river but also appreciate other people in the city,” Dunne said.
Students at Shawnee State University will also be taking part in this project. They will conduct surveys and interviews to study its impact. | 2022-12-28T22:42:37Z | www.wsaz.com | Canoeing project in Portsmouth awarded Burners Without Borders micro-grant | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/28/canoeing-project-portsmouth-awarded-burners-without-borders-micro-grant/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/28/canoeing-project-portsmouth-awarded-burners-without-borders-micro-grant/ |
Reporting abandoned properties in Cabell County, West Virginia
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Commissioners are prone to having problems brought to them, but sometimes there’s not always a solution.
For years, the Cabell County Commission has been unable to address complaints about unsafe structures.
During the last commission meeting, an ordinance was passed creating the Unsafe Structure and Property Enforcement Agency.
The agency will consist of the county engineer, a county health officer, a fire chief from a county volunteer fire department, the county litter control officer, and two members of the public who will serve two terms. The county sheriff will be in charge of enforcing orders.
“I believe in limited government, and there’s a role for us to play and people to have the right to constitutionally do what they want in their property. This is by no means an infringement on that, but at the same time it gives us the ability to process where we can if it’s brought to our attention that we could do so,” said Commissioner Kelli Sobonya.
The enforcement agency will investigate any complaints or identify structures or properties within 30 days of receiving a written complaint or after identifying such a structure or property.
The commission approved a complaint form where community members can file complaints about structures in their neighborhood.
Complaints will then be brought before the County Commission.
The commission approved a complaint form where community members can alert the agency of issues.
“This isn’t to nitpick against your neighbors like somebody who didn’t cut their grass in 30 days,” Sobonya said. “This is for truly egregious properties that pose a severe health situation or is unsafe.”
Sobonya said the process will likely take between six months to a year.
The ordinance goes into effect March 1, 2023, only after the members of the Building Enforcement Agency board are appointed. | 2022-12-29T00:44:14Z | www.wsaz.com | Cabell County Commission creates Unsafe Structure and Property Enforcement Agency | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/cabell-county-commission-creates-unsafe-structure-property-enforcement-agency/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/cabell-county-commission-creates-unsafe-structure-property-enforcement-agency/ |
Crews at house fire scene of two previous fires(WSAZ/Dominick Groves)
By Taylor Eaton
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Charleston Fire crews on Wednesday night are fighting a fire at an abandoned house -- the site of two previous fires, the Charleston Fire Department said.
The fire was reported around 9:30 p.m. in the 900 block of Miller Street. That’s on the city’s East End.
Firefighters say flames were coming from the roof of the two-story building when they arrived.
According to investigators, the most recent fire at that house was in late November, while the other happened in October 2021.
We have a crew at the scene. | 2022-12-29T03:20:43Z | www.wsaz.com | Crews at house fire scene of two previous fires | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/crews-house-fire-scene-two-previous-fires/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/crews-house-fire-scene-two-previous-fires/ |
MASON COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - The effects of the bitter cold temperatures during the holiday weekend have made winter break feel like anything but a vacation for Hannan Junior/Senior High School officials.
Concerned families reached out to WSAZ after learning a pipe burst in the ceiling of a boys’ restroom on Christmas Day, leaking through the hallway and damaging the gym floor.
“As our crews jumped in to find out what was going on, we discovered that a fitting on a sprinkler pipe had broken,” Mason County Schools Superintendent Dr. Keith Burdette said Wednesday. “Their sprinkler systems are intended to dump a lot of water into an area in a short amount of time and it did just that.”
The water damaged parts of the school’s basketball court.
“Our biggest concern right now is of course with a wooden gym floor because wood and water do not mix well,” Burdette said. “When you get wood this wet, it has a tendency to want to curl or cup or warp and so even though we had people on the scene, as soon as we learned about it, people jumped onto this and started taking the water off of the gym floor.”
Burdette said the school’s principal has already started coordinating with other schools and organizations throughout the county so the Wildcats have other practice and game spaces as the floor dries. The gym also serves as the main space for physical education classes for the school.
However, Burdette said he is crediting the quick action of maintenance crews for saving the Wildcats’ season.
“[Christmas], that was one of the days when people really probably didn’t, what their plans disrupted. We also had people who came out on the on the legal holiday on Monday and did work as well. I just really appreciate the efforts that they’ve they’ve made to put students first and to try to take good care of our facilities.”
At least for this week, coaches have been asked to not let teams practice at the school gym while the floor dries out an exact date for the gym to fully reopen is unclear.
Burdette expects faculty and staff are expected to return on time Jan. 3 with students set to come back the next day. He adds the district is in the process of scheduling an air quality check so everyone can safely return to the building. | 2022-12-29T04:30:16Z | www.wsaz.com | Christmas Day pipe burst damages Hannan Jr./Sr. High School gym floor | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/christmas-day-pipe-burst-damages-hannan-jrsr-high-school-gym-floor/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/christmas-day-pipe-burst-damages-hannan-jrsr-high-school-gym-floor/ |
Crash detouring traffic on U.S. 52(WSAZ/Willard Ferguson)
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ohio (WSAZ) - Traffic is temporarily being detoured Thursday afternoon from U.S. 52 after a crash in the Coal Grove area, crews at the scene say.
The two-vehicle accident was reported around 4:15 p.m. near the intersection of County Road 1. There’s no word about possible injuries at this time.
The issue is affecting traffic in the westbound lanes, according to investigators.
Other details are unavailable now. | 2022-12-29T22:03:12Z | www.wsaz.com | Crash detours traffic on U.S. 52 | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/crash-detouring-traffic-us-52/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/crash-detouring-traffic-us-52/ |
“We’re dipping water out of the crick up there to flush our commodes. School starts, kids can’t bath, they can’t go back to school,” he said.
Loughery says these issues persist year to year, and in the past their sheriff purchased and delivered them water.
“This goes on every year, the one year our sheriff knocked on our door and gave us bottles of water, it’s not his job to do it.”
“Honestly we need to replace every single line in our system. That’s the deal. We’ve got lines that aren’t buried deep enough, they’re not below the frost line, service lines. I mean we’ve got a lot of issues,” said Jimmy Kerr, Chairman of the Martin County Water and Sanitation Board.
Kerr recognized that water system workers have been working long hours since Christmas, helping to get water back to small communities like Loughery’s.
“I said if you see one of our crew guys out there you need to give them a hug, they’re the heroes in all this. They’ve been out there, they’ve had to miss holidays, they missed Christmas, they’ve had to miss those things. They’re going on next to no sleep, it’s been cold,” he said.
Martin County Judge-Executive Lon Lafferty says more needs to be done by the state and federal governments to support impoverished areas like Martin County and improve their infrastructure. | 2022-12-30T05:13:39Z | www.wsaz.com | ‘We need to replace every single line in our system’: People in Martin County upset with persistent water issues | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/we-need-replace-every-single-line-our-system-people-martin-county-upset-with-persistent-water-issues/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/29/we-need-replace-every-single-line-our-system-people-martin-county-upset-with-persistent-water-issues/ |
'Be a support system.' Helping loved ones through holiday hardships(MGN)
KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - As the new year draws near, Dr. Steven Esehenaur recommends checking in with your mental health.
“It’s that time of year when depression seems to be worse than other times of the year,” he said.
“The days are shorter, the holidays are here, people have more pressures put on them that are generated by the holidays, whether it may be financial pressures, work pressures, family pressure, or feeling stretched too thin.”
If you find yourself having difficulty finding the fun in welcoming a new year, he recommends reaching out to loved ones who make you feel alive.
“Seek out your support network,” he said. “All of us have friends, colleagues, confidants, family, someone we can reach out to and be a friend or colleague, don’t spend the holidays alone find the joy in the holidays.”
If you do find yourself concerned about the behavior of a loved one around the new year, Eehenaur recommends keeping the tenants of a good relationship and being a support system so they make it to the new year and make it a fulfilling one.
“It’s important that we reach out for help, we talk to friends, colleagues and we be a friend and colleague that reaches out to others that are in need or may be in need due to recent loss of a family member or financial pressures, job loss, income loss all these different pressures can exacerbate seasonal affective disorder, particularly during this holiday period,” he said. “Find those you may know who are alone that you may know aren’t interacting, getting out and enjoying the holidays with others so they know they’re cared for and wanted.”
In the meantime, he said there is a resolution everyone can take into the New Year.
“This year keep things in balance, balance how much you eat, spend and how much you drink all these things can exacerbate seasonal affective disorder because when we spend and eat too much it adds additional stress,” he said. “When you drink too much not only does that make us more stressed it makes us more depressed.”
For those who may be in immediate crisis consider contacting the Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433), Crisis Line: 1-844-HELP4WV Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988. | 2022-12-30T21:32:25Z | www.wsaz.com | ‘Be a support system’ helping loved ones through holiday hardships | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/be-support-system-helping-loved-ones-through-holiday-hardships/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/be-support-system-helping-loved-ones-through-holiday-hardships/ |
New senior center opens in Proctorville, largest in the county(WSAZ)
PROCTORVILLE, Ohio (WSAZ) - Seniors in the Lawrence County community are celebrating the opening of a new senior center.
The Lawrence County Senior Center in Proctorville has been long-awaited.
The project, 12 years in the making, is finally open for seniors in the community to enjoy.
“When I got elected commissioner 12 years ago I started on this project with Miss Darlene Green, which is my director,” said coordinator Freddie Hayes. “About four years ago we finally got a million dollars from a grant.”
It’s something the area needed, because the senior community didn’t have a consistent meeting place.
It’s the biggest one in the county, and one of its kind.
“Oh we play bingo, we do crafts, we have bible study,” said senior center member Donna Plybon. “We just gave a great time together.”
They get to meet and enjoy each other’s company three times a week.
“Oh it’s been wonderful. We are blessed,” Plybon said. “That’s all I can say, God has blessed us.”
The seniors at the center say it’s really important for them to have a place to go, to meet people and have activities to look forward to.
“This is wonderful, getting out when you’re by yourself, because I lost my husband and I lost my son,” Plybon said. “I was totally devastated. I had a friend who told me to come here and it’s been the most wonderful thing of my life.”
They’re open from 10 a.m. to 1 p. m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and any senior in the area is welcome.
The center is located at 7755 County Road 107, Proctorville, Ohio, 45669. | 2022-12-30T21:32:37Z | www.wsaz.com | New senior center opens in Proctorville, largest in the county | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/new-senior-center-opens-proctorville-largest-county/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/new-senior-center-opens-proctorville-largest-county/ |
IRONTON, Ohio (WSAZ) - On Friday, a body was found along the riverbank, according to the Ironton Police Department.
Ironton Police Chief Pam Wagner confirmed the body was found on the north end of town, behind the floodwall on Second Street.
The body has been turned over to the Lawrence County Coroner. The chief says an autopsy will be conducted sometime within the next few days. | 2022-12-30T21:58:44Z | www.wsaz.com | Body discovered along Ohio riverbank | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/body-discovered-along-ohio-riverbank/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/body-discovered-along-ohio-riverbank/ |
2 people missing in the Elk River(MGN)
BRAXTON COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Crews have been working Friday evening to recover two people missing in the Elk River in the Duck area, according to John Hoffman with Braxton County Emergency Services.
Nearly 75 first responders from several departments, including dive teams, have been on the scene. They have been searching since around 4 p.m.
The search, which started as a rescue mission, was suspended due to darkness.
There is no word about how the two people ended up in the river or any information about their identities.
Hoffman said the two people did not go in the river at the same time, and the second person was a would-be rescuer.
West Virginia State Police are investigating.
Keep checking the WSAZ app for the latest on the recovery mission. | 2022-12-31T00:17:42Z | www.wsaz.com | 2 people missing in the Elk River | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/2-people-missing-elk-river/ | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/12/30/2-people-missing-elk-river/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the Amarillo district of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently announced that two roads will be closed in the area because of various construction projects.
According to a series of tweets on the Amarillo TxDOT’s Twitter account, officials announced that the I-40 eastbound entrance ramp from Pullman Road will be closed through 6 p.m. for riprap work behind the curb and gutter.
Officials also announced that the right lane of U.S. 87 southbound will be closed for patching repairs at the bridge located at FM 1719 and Givens Road.
For more information about projects throughout the Amarillo district, visit the Amarillo TxDOT Twitter account. | 2022-03-15T17:09:18Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo TxDOT: various projects impact area roads | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-txdot-various-projects-impact-area-roads/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-txdot-various-projects-impact-area-roads/ |
TTUHSC students to receive residence assignments at event
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Students at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Medicine in Amarillo are gearing up for “Match Day 2022,” a celebration in which students learn where they will be conducting their residencies, officials with TTUHSC announced.
Beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, students will read their results which, according to TTUHSC, will be sealed in an envelope and opened together at all of the nation’s medical schools.
The event will be hosted at the Amarillo Civic Center Complex and consist of the following schedule:
10:30 a.m., class photo;
11:00 a.m., students open envelopes;
11:15 a.m., presentation from TTUHSC School of Medicine Administration. | 2022-03-15T17:09:30Z | www.myhighplains.com | TTUHSC students to receive residence assignments at event | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/ttuhsc-students-to-receive-residence-assignments-at-event/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/ttuhsc-students-to-receive-residence-assignments-at-event/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas recently released a criminal complaint detailing an alleged drug-related transaction occurring in Moore County involving three Amarillo residents.
According to court documents, Luis Alberto Jaramillo, Myra Nikole Martinez and Ricardo Sanchez were all listed in the criminal complaint, filed on March 4. All three individuals were charged with “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl.”
The court documents said officials with Homeland Security Investigations located a source of fentanyl within Amarillo through a controlled call between the source of the drugs and a “cooperating defendant.” Through a series of these controlled calls, a transaction of $8,000 for 1,000 fentanyl pills was proposed to take place in Dumas. During these calls, officials heard a man and a woman along with the source.
While officials initially traveled to Dumas to initiate surveillance for this location, the operation was stopped, even though the source said they were on their way to the location. While returning to Amarillo, officials witnessed a Cadillac Escalade matching a description provided to officials by the source with a “defective headlamp.”
A deputy from the Moore County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of the Escalade because of the defective headlamp, the documents read. The driver was identified as Jaramillo, with Martinez and Sanchez both being in the car as well. After officers confirmed that Sanchez had a semi-automatic pistol, a “narcotics detection canine… positively alerted the presence of narcotics emanating from the vehicle” after consent was not given to initially search the vehicle.
Officers searched the car after the dog confirmed the smell of narcotics being present. According to court documents, officers discovered two bundles of round blue pills as well as an additional handgun. Because officers presumed the pills were Fentanyl, all three individuals were booked into the Moore County Texas Detention Center. Officials said the amount possessed by Jaramillo, Martinez and Sanchez was “consistent with distribution and not merely used for personal consumption.” | 2022-03-15T18:11:47Z | www.myhighplains.com | 3 Amarillo residents arrested for alleged drug distribution in Dumas | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/3-amarillo-residents-arrested-for-alleged-drug-distribution-in-dumas/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/3-amarillo-residents-arrested-for-alleged-drug-distribution-in-dumas/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), along with top transit officials and local transit leaders, are set to meet at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday to discuss funding to support bus service throughout rural Texas communities, TxDOT announced.
The meeting, according to TxDOT, will take place via Zoom, with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Communications Director Paul Kincaid and Eric Gleason, Director of Public Transportation, Texas Department of Transportation, in attendance. | 2022-03-15T18:11:53Z | www.myhighplains.com | TxDOT, transit leaders to discuss bus service funding at meeting | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/txdot-transit-leaders-to-discuss-bus-service-funding-at-meeting/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/txdot-transit-leaders-to-discuss-bus-service-funding-at-meeting/ |
ARLINGTON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – According to an announcement for the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation, non-profit organizations in Texas and New Mexico will have the opportunity to apply for a $100,000 grant through the foundation’s new Legacy Grant Program.
According to the announcement, the Texas Rangers Foundation committed to donating $500,000 as part of the new program, in conjunction with the Texas Rangers’ 50th anniversary and the Foundation’s 30th anniversary. Those funds will be split into five $100,000 grants that will be offered to non-profit organizations across Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
“As we celebrate the 50-year legacy of the Texas Rangers in Arlington, we are honored to introduce the Legacy Grant Program, which will fund five impactful projects across our viewing territory,” said Neil Leibman, Texas Rangers president, business operations and chief operating officer, and Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation Chairman, “It is our hope that funding these life-changing projects will leave a lasting effect on our communities, creating a new legacy to be felt for years to come.”
The Foundation said that it aims to award the grants to organizations that “share a similar mission to improve the lives of those in the community, especially children, military, first responders, and their families, through innovative programming and partnerships that focus on education, health, and athletics.”
The Foundation noted that designated 501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations may submit letters of interest beginning March 15 through April 30. Applications for the Texas Rangers 50th Anniversary Legacy Grant Program can be found online here.
Program details, as released by the Foundation, included:
Must be officially designated as a 501(c) (3) nonprofit by the Internal Revenue code.
Organization must have been in operation for a minimum of three (3) years.
Must operate within one or more of the following states: Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma or Texas.
Interested organizations should share the Foundation’s mission and focus to assist children, military, first responders and their families, through innovative programming and partnerships that focus on education, health and athletics.
Proposals should focus on how these funds will improve the lives of children and families in communities across the Rangers five-state territory (Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma or Texas).
Programs and proposals will be evaluated based on many criteria, but please be sure to include specific information on:
Data on communities that will be served.
Expected impact on the communities, particularly in distressed communities.
How you will determine and track measurable outcomes and data.
Sustainability of the program.
Creativity and ability for the Rangers Foundation and Rangers organization to engage in the program if desired.
School districts and municipalities, and athletic departments and organizations are encouraged to apply.
Partnerships between nonprofit organizations are highly encouraged.
The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation will solicit letters of interest from organizations through the online portal at texasrangers.com/legacygrants.
Proposals will be accepted through April 30, 2022.
Formal requests for proposals will be sent to selected organizations by May 30, 2022.
Proposals must be submitted by June 30, 2022.
Finalists will be notified and interviewed in July.
Legacy Grant recipients will be selected and notified by August 30, 2022.
March 15 – Applications Open
April 30 – Letters of Interest Due
May 30 – Selected Applicants Notified About Request for Proposal
June 30 – Requested Proposals Due
July 30 – Finalist Interviews Completed
August 30 – Winners Selected and Notified
Information on non-profit and other charitable organizations across the High Plains can be found here. | 2022-03-15T21:00:56Z | www.myhighplains.com | Applications open for non-profit Legacy Grant Program | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/applications-open-for-non-profit-legacy-grant-program/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/applications-open-for-non-profit-legacy-grant-program/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – According to an announcement from the Don Harrington Discovery Center (DHDC), Spring Break is set to be a “spectacular” week of celebration and education.
The center released a flier detailing activities and special events throughout the week of March 14 – 18, including:
Pi Day!
Absolutely Buggin’
Kathleen Guerrero presents a collection of African Bugs from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
History Unveiled
A trained interpreter from the Panhandle-Plains talks about the history of World War II and the man stories of the time.
Wild About Animals
The Wild Hanbury’s show off their exotic pet collection!
Heal the World
Coffee Memorial Blood Center will take donations using their Mobile Blood Bank.
“Spring Break Spectacular” ScheduleDownload
More information and other events can be found at DHDC.org. | 2022-03-15T21:01:02Z | www.myhighplains.com | Don Harrington Discovery Center celebrates Spring Break | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/don-harrington-discovery-center-celebrates-spring-break/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/don-harrington-discovery-center-celebrates-spring-break/ |
AUSTIN, Texas (KAMR/KC(T) — Officials with the state of Texas, the Texas Department of Emergency Management (TDEM) as well as the Texas A&M Forest Service have resources mobilized as fire weather conditions increase throughout the state in the next couple of days.
Officials with the Texas A&M Forest Service said that since Saturday (March 12), state and local resources have responded to 70 fires that have burned 15,274 acres throughout the state.
According to a news release from the office of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Abbott directed the TDEM to mobilize state resources throughout the week, with high winds and low relative humidity causing “heightened risk for wildfires in the western half of the state,” including along and west of I-35 and into south Texas.
The following resources have been readied by the Texas A&M Forest Service, the release said:
Six strike teams from the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) which includes around 150 firefighters and 30 fire engines;
Aviation resources including two large airtankers, 12 single-engine air tankers, four air attack platforms, three type-one helicopters, two type-three helicopters and one aerial supervision module;
“The State of Texas remains ready to fully support local partners and communities that could be impacted by wildfires this week,” Abbott said in the release. “As we continue to monitor the weather and collaborate with personnel on the ground, Texans are encouraged to be mindful of fire-prone weather conditions and practice wildfire safety to keep their loved ones safe.”
Officials with the Texas A&M Forest Service said that they are monitoring the situation closely and have “prepositioned personnel and equipment across areas of concern.” Officials said that fully staffed task forces and additional suppression equipment are staged across the state, including in Amarillo Childress and Lubbock.
“The underlying drought conditions combined with winds associated with cold front passages has supported increased wildfire activity across the state this week,” Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service’s Fire Chief, said in the release. “Conditions are not forecast to improve through the weekend, and the agency has strategically placed fire resources across the state for a quick and effective response.”
For more information, visit the Texas A&M Forest Service’s website. For current conditions and wildfire outlook, click here. | 2022-03-15T23:26:57Z | www.myhighplains.com | State agencies prepare for high wildfire weather risk | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/state-agencies-prepare-for-high-wildfire-weather-risk/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/state-agencies-prepare-for-high-wildfire-weather-risk/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — An investigation is underway after a cyberattack caused the City of Amarillo to shut down some external connections over the weekend.
The City said on Sunday they identified the attack early and there was no data breach.
Rich Gagnon, the City of Amarillo’s public information officer, said they saw the signs of an attack on one of the IT systems at about noon on Friday, March 11.
“We shut down our external connections by two o’clock once we verified, ‘Okay this is out of the ordinary,’ because time is of the essence. Right?” said Gagnon. “If we had been wrong and not isolated it and stayed open, it could have been much worse.”
According to Gagnon, the City takes hundreds of millions of cyberattacks each year, including more than a million emails with malware attached.
“This was a fairly sophisticated approach and the truth, is the reason we caught it is because we monitor so heavily,” said Gagnon.
He said the attack was on an IT infrastructure piece, not on a server that holds information.
“So none of our data was at risk, which is all encrypted at rest, which means even if you could see it, you couldn’t read it. But it wasn’t any of those systems,” he said. “So like, think switches and routers and those kinds of things. But we wanted to err on the side of caution because as I said, we were 90% sure from the start that we had we caught this thing and quickly isolated it, but you can’t afford to be wrong, not in today’s world.”
Gagnon said the cyberattack was what is called a “zero-day” attack.
“A zero-day attack is a new way to attack a piece of equipment where there’s not a patch for it yet,” said Gagnon. “So, in other words, it’s so new that the manufacturer has not provided an update to the software to close that gap.”
The good news—Gagnon said no damage was done.
“The minute we have an incident like this, I report it to the Criminal Justice Information System…I always bring in an outside incident team so that’s not City of Amarillo staff,” said Gagnon. “I have outside agencies that are looking at this and they’re also assuring us that we did catch it. We didn’t get compromised. We didn’t have ransomware. We had no data escape.”
Gagnon said they do not yet know where the attack came from.
“We have some early indicators. I can’t share those because we’re still doing the forensics but by the end of it? Yeah, we’ll know where and we’ll know who.”
Some services were affected over the weekend after the City shut down external connections. Amarillo Police had to do reports manually as a precaution and the City’s email system was down.
Gagnon said things were back to normal on Tuesday. | 2022-03-16T01:45:08Z | www.myhighplains.com | City of Amarillo says no damage done during cyberattack | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/city-of-amarillo-says-no-damage-done-during-cyberattack/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/city-of-amarillo-says-no-damage-done-during-cyberattack/ |
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) – The 27th Special Operations Wing is set to host a virtual public meeting Tuesday at 5 p.m. EST, aiming to provide updates to the Department of the Air Force’s efforts to address per-and-polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that were identified at Cannon Air Force Base (AFB).
According to an announcement from AFB, this will be the first quarterly meeting of 2022 focused on the Air Force response to PFAS. Environmental project managers from the Air Force Civil Engineer Center are expected to provide status updates and answer public PFAS questions.
The virtual meeting will be open to the public, said the announcement and the Air Force said it will welcome and encourage public participation.
Meeting information, according to the announcement:
Zoom meeting link – https://bit.ly/3vHypKF
Zoom meeting call number – 646-876-9923
Those participating in the meeting were encouraged by the announcement to type questions into the available chat box. All questions will be captured and answered either during the meeting or in the meeting minutes, according to Cannon AFB.
More information on the quarterly meetings, or available videos of the meetings, can be found here. | 2022-03-16T15:54:43Z | www.myhighplains.com | Cannon AFB hosts quarterly virtual PFAS update | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/cannon-afb-hosts-quarterly-virtual-pfas-update/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/cannon-afb-hosts-quarterly-virtual-pfas-update/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — The Amarillo Botanical Gardens are hosting their annual Mad Hatter’s Ball from 7:00 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, March 26th.
Check out the wild world of Wonderland with live music from Monarch, a silent auction, an open bar, and sweets and treats from Mad Hatter himself.
Tickets are $60 per person or $450 per table. You must be 21 or older to attend. | 2022-03-16T15:54:49Z | www.myhighplains.com | Don’t be late for the Mad Hatter’s Ball | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/dont-be-late-for-the-mad-hatters-ball/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/dont-be-late-for-the-mad-hatters-ball/ |
by: Erica Miller, Cat Keenan
EDIT: This article has been updated to include the released statement from the University of the Southwest.
ANDREWS COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- The University of the Southwest has confirmed Head Golf Coach Tyler James has died after the 17-passenger van he was driving was involved in a head-on crash late Tuesday evening. The van was carrying members of the men’s and women’s golf teams home from a tournament from Midland.
On Wednesday morning, the University of the Southwest issued a statement on social media regarding the crash:
“The USW campus community is shocked and saddened today as we mourn the loss of members of our university family. Last night, the men’s and women’s golf teams were traveling back to campus from competition in Midland, Texas, when their bus was struck by oncoming traffic. Nine passengers, including the coach, were on the university bus involved in the fatal accident. While the accident investigation is still underway, reports indicate that seven passengers aboard the bus were killed in the crash. Two of the passengers are in critical condition undergoing medical treatment in Lubbock, Texas. | 2022-03-16T15:55:50Z | www.myhighplains.com | Head coach among those dead in USW bus crash | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/head-coach-among-those-dead-in-usw-bus-crash/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/head-coach-among-those-dead-in-usw-bus-crash/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Since the beginning of Spring Break, the Amarillo Police Department (APD) on Wednesday introduced the new “Spring Break Drinking Deterrence” project, which aims to reduce underage drinking in Amarillo.
According to a news release from the APD, underage drinking “causes countless incidents where young people are involved in alcohol-related fights, assaults, vehicle crashes, and alcohol overdoses,” therefore, a heavy presence of officers will be on-duty during spring break.
The release detailed that Amarillo officers have written five citations for minors possessing alcohol and officers have checked around 100 locations that are known as underage drinking hangout spots, including business parking lots near 34th and Coulter.
Police investigators, APD explained, have identified a liquor store that “sold alcohol to minors on multiple occasions,” with the reports sent to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for Administrative Action.
The department reminded the community that in 2020, a city ordinance was passed to “address host liability for underage drinking,” which ensures that property owners, managers, and hosts be held “responsible” for the cost of police and fire response units to underage drinking events, in addition to a $300 fine.
The goal of the APD, according to the release, “is to encourage our entire community to stop minors from drinking, potentially driving, and to prevent tragedies from occurring.”
Any person aware of an underage drinking party or someone who is contributing to underage drinking was encouraged to contact the Amarillo Police Department.
APD concluded that if you wish to remain anonymous, you can call the Student Crime stoppers line at 372-TIPS (8477) or download the P3 app and make a tip there.
A Miami Beach police officer inspects the inside of a car on Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, on March 22, 2021. – The US city of Miami Beach, overrun by crowds…
A Miami Beach police officer inspects the inside of a car on Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, on March 22, 2021. – The US city of Miami Beach, overrun by crowds of spring break tourists throwing Covid caution to the wind, has extended a state of emergency to stem the chaos — drawing accusations of unfairly tough tactics against mostly Black revelers. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP) (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images) | 2022-03-16T19:27:22Z | www.myhighplains.com | APD announces alcohol safety project for Spring Break | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/apd-announces-alcohol-safety-project-for-spring-break/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/apd-announces-alcohol-safety-project-for-spring-break/ |
TTUHSC, Texas Panhandle Poison Center host Medication Cleanout
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) and the Texas Panhandle Poison Control Center (TPPC) announced that residents will be able to properly dispose of expired, unwanted, or unnecessary medications at the upcoming Medication Cleanout event.
The Medication Cleanout was scheduled, according to the announcement, for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 19 at the TTUHSC Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy on 1300 South Coulter.
According to TTUHSC, the event will be the program’s 75th since its beginning in 2009. To date, TTUHSC said that more than 67,000 pounds of medications and sharps have been collected for proper disposal.
via TTUHSC
TTUHSC detailed that the event will use a “drive-thru, drop-off” format to allow residents to dispose of their medications without leaving their cars. Yard signs are expected to be posted to help drivers locate the drive-thru path.
Those seeking to participate, said the announcement, should make sure that their medications are in their original containers. Further, because of environmental restrictions, only medications from households can be accepted. Medications from clinics, pharmacies, and other businesses are not allowed. | 2022-03-16T19:27:28Z | www.myhighplains.com | TTUHSC, Texas Panhandle Poison Center host Medication Cleanout | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/ttuhsc-texas-panhandle-poison-center-host-medication-cleanout/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/ttuhsc-texas-panhandle-poison-center-host-medication-cleanout/ |
AUSTIN, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently announced that 2021 was the second deadliest year on the roadways since the department began tracking fatalities in 1940.
According to a news release, TxDOT reported that 4,480 individuals died on Texas roads in 2021. This compares to the 4,701 individuals who died on Texas roads in 1981, the deadliest year in TxDOT’s history.
This comes as motor vehicle fatalities rose more than 18% throughout the United States in 2021. According to the release, fatalities rose in the state of Texas 15% from 2020.
“Driver behavior is one of the causes, but also one of the most important solutions,” Transportation Commissioner Laura Ryan said in the release. “This is not blame. These are facts. We all have a role. TxDOT can do more, and we accept that responsibility. The driving public can do more. For instance, in 2021, a total of 1,522 people were killed because of speed, and a total of 1,219 people were killed because they were not wearing a seat belt. These were decisions made by people that could have potentially saved 2,741 lives.”
According to the release, TxDOT is working to fund traffic safety campaigns and grant funds to law enforcement. Officials from the department are also working with researchers to “deploy and study new roadway design features that are proven to save lives,” using crash data to improve areas where drivers are more prone to crashes. | 2022-03-16T19:27:34Z | www.myhighplains.com | TxDOT announces 2021 as second deadliest year on Texas roadways | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/txdot-announces-2021-as-second-deadliest-year-on-texas-roadways/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/txdot-announces-2021-as-second-deadliest-year-on-texas-roadways/ |
DONLEY COUNTY, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – In the wake of the March 1 Republican Primary Election, Donley County Commissioner, Precinct 4 candidates Dan Sawyer and Brad Dalton are at the center of a lawsuit calling for a new vote to be held.
RESULTS || March 2022 Election Day on the High Plains
In court documents for the election contest filed on March 11 in the 100th District Court, incumbent candidate Dan Sawyer claimed that the recent county redistricting process and a related mistake led to some people voting in the wrong precinct. While Sawyer was running in Precinct 4, some voters in Donley County who would have been categorized as residents in that precinct were unable to vote in the race.
Because of the mistakes that led to some residents not being able to vote in their correct precincts, Sawyer’s complaint argued that the election’s outcome is not true. While Sawyer “is in no way alleging “fraud or illegal conduct,” but merely a mistake,” according to court documents, he still petitioned for a new election to be held.
The other candidate involved in the suit, Brad Dalton, filed a response on March 15. The filed answer said that after looking over the provided evidence by Sawyer and “making inquiry of his own,” Dalton supported the idea of the court ordering a new election.
While no ruling had yet been issued by the court as to whether or not a new election will be ordered, both Sawyer and Dalton noted in court documents that they hope for a quick decision. | 2022-03-16T19:29:06Z | www.myhighplains.com | Donley County Republican Primary candidates sue for new vote | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/donley-county-republican-primary-candidates-sue-for-new-vote/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/donley-county-republican-primary-candidates-sue-for-new-vote/ |
PAMPA, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the city of Pampa released information regarding a structure fire Tuesday evening in south Pampa.
According to a post made to the city of Pampa’s Facebook page, officials with the Pampa Fire Department, as well as the Hoover Volunteer Fire Department, were dispatched to a structure fire at 1125 S. Nelson around 11:42 p.m. Tuesday. Officials said nine personnel and five units from the Pampa Fire Department responded, while seven personnel and two units with the Hoover Volunteer Fire Department responded.
Officials said that the structure was occupied at the time of the fire but the occupant was able to evacuate the home. No injuries were reported with the fire. The post read that the cause of the fire is still under investigation and the scene was cleared by around 1:37 a.m. Wednesday.
From the city of Pampa’s homepage | 2022-03-16T22:37:15Z | www.myhighplains.com | No injuries reported in Tuesday evening fire in Pampa | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/no-injuries-reported-in-tuesday-evening-fire-in-pampa/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/no-injuries-reported-in-tuesday-evening-fire-in-pampa/ |
WASHINGTON D.C. (KAMR/KCIT) — After members of the United States’ Congress heard from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson R-Texas District 13 spoke with MyHighPlains.com about the ongoing conflict and what he thinks the United States’ response should be.
According to reports from NewsNation, Zelenskyy called on the United States to continue to help in the ongoing situation. This comes after the United States imposed a number of sanctions on Russia and has given monetary aid. During Wednesday’s speech, Zelenskyy called on the United States to implement a no-fly zone over Ukraine, impose further restrictions on Russian politicians and called all American companies to leave the Russian market.
After Zelenskyy’s speech Wednesday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States would be sending $800 million in new aid to Ukraine. According to reports by NewsNation, this money is being put aside for the more than 3 million individuals fleeing the country. The package also includes a number of items Ukraine can use in the conflict, including a number of guns, as well as javelins and stingers.
Jackson said that Zelenskyy’s Wednesday speech was “sad to watch.” What the speech showed Jackson was how Ukraine is currently in a desperate situation and how much help they do need.
“I think he just made a really emotional plea, which he’s done before. He’s really brought the whole world together, you know, because of who he is and the way he’s… stood tall throughout all of this for his country,” Jackson said. “I think everyone was honored to hear from him today and I think it’s just a really bad situation they have there right now.”
While Jackson supports the United States in imposing sanctions and giving Ukraine as much aid as they can, Jackson said he is not in favor of the United States imposing a no-fly zone. Jackson said while he believes that Russia has demonstrated that they have “no capability to fight a conventional war,” individuals cannot forget about the country’s nuclear capability.
“They do have nuclear weapons. (Russia’s President Vladimir) Putin is just crazy enough, if it gets desperate enough, to use something like that,” Jackson said. “I think that if we establish a no-fly zone, that means that very, very quickly, we’re going to be confronted with shooting down Russian fighters and when that happens, the whole game has changed.”
Jackson encouraged the United States to continue to take every action they can through sanctions.
“We need to sanction every single thing we can. We need to crush them financially, from the sanction standpoint. The oil and gas is a big step. We need to make sure other people all over the world are not buying their oil as well,” he said. “The other thing we need to do is we need to ramp up production here in the United States. We need to be an alternative for Russian oil, not just in this country, but for all over the world.”
Overall, Jackson stressed the importance of standing strong and praying for the Ukrainian people during this situation.
“We’re going to do every single thing we can possibly do, short of getting ourselves in World War Three, to help these people,” Jackson said. “We’re going to have to think outside of the box and come up with some creative ways to do this. But, we can do it if we and NATO and all of our European allies put our heads together.” | 2022-03-16T22:37:57Z | www.myhighplains.com | U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson speaks on ongoing Ukrainian conflict | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/u-s-rep-ronny-jackson-speaks-on-ongoing-ukrainian-conflict/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/u-s-rep-ronny-jackson-speaks-on-ongoing-ukrainian-conflict/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – After revealing in September 2021 that it would move the Uptown Shoppe into the same building that houses Thrift City, the Downtown Women’s Center (DWC) announced it expects to open on Friday.
According to an announcement from the DWC, the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was planned for Friday, March 18, at 12 p.m. at 812 S.W. 10th Street.
Downtown Women’s Center: Helping at-risk women and children for over 30 years
As noted in previous reporting from MyHighPlains.com, the DWC said that combining all of their stores in the same area is intended to provide customers with a “better shopping experience.”
via the Downtown Women’s Center
“We are remodeling the building to create the Uptown Shoppe’s own space,” said the DWC in September 2021, “resulting in both retail stoors being located under one roof.”
Further described by previous reporting from MyHighPlains, the DWC has worked to help at-risk women and children for over 32 years.
“We provide housing and services to overcome homelessness for women and children,” said Stephanie Goins, Development Director for DWC, in December 2021, “We just want to make sure that people who are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction are taken care of.”
The DWC described itself on its website as an organization running shelters such as the Haven House, the Abba House, and the Gratitude House. In 2011, the DWC also assumed ownership of the Meridian Apartments.
More information about the DWC, its stores, its shelters, and its programs can be found here. | 2022-03-17T13:59:33Z | www.myhighplains.com | Downtown Women’s Center cuts ribbon on new shopping center | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/downtown-womens-center-cuts-ribbon-on-new-shopping-center/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/downtown-womens-center-cuts-ribbon-on-new-shopping-center/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — According to the Amarillo Crime Stoppers on Thursday morning, Nicole Mary Benton is wanted by the Randall County Sheriff’s Office for “Credit/Debit Card Abuse-Elderly,” and by the Potter County Sheriff’s Office for “Bond Surrender-Burglary of a Building” in this week’s “Fugitive of the Week.”
Benton is described by the crime stoppers as a 36-year-old female, 5’04” tall, with brown eyes and brown hair.
If you know Nicole’s location, call Amarillo Crime Stoppers at 806-374-4400. You can also submit a tip online at amapolice.org or by using the P3 tips app.
The Crime Stoppers added that if your anonymous tip leads to her arrest you could earn a reward of $300.00. Remember to “Say It Here” with Amarillo Crime Stoppers. | 2022-03-17T13:59:39Z | www.myhighplains.com | Woman wanted on burglary, credit/debit abuse charges | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/woman-wanted-on-burglary-credit-debit-abuse-charges/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/woman-wanted-on-burglary-credit-debit-abuse-charges/ |
The data released Thursday to capture the second half of a decadelong expansion in the U.S. economy that followed the Great Recession. The expansion ended in spring 2020 as the coronavirus started spreading throughout the U.S., forcing businesses to close and workers to be laid off. The data captured only a small part of the initial impact from the pandemic, according to the Census Bureau. | 2022-03-17T13:59:51Z | www.myhighplains.com | US grew less impoverished, better educated in second half of 2010s | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/us-grew-less-impoverished-better-educated-in-second-half-of-2010s/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/us-grew-less-impoverished-better-educated-in-second-half-of-2010s/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – One child was taken to the hospital Thursday morning after the Amarillo Fire Department was called to a house fire on the 3400 block of Southeast 15th.
According to the fire department, crews arrived at the home Thursday morning to find a mother in the yard, who told firefighters that her two children were inside the home. While officials reported that one was able to get out of the home, the other child was taken to a local hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
Officials also reported that two dogs were inside the home at the time of the fire. While one was able to escape, the other was unaccounted for at around 10 a.m.
The fire was put out around 10 a.m., according to officials, though no cause for the fire had yet been determined. | 2022-03-17T16:45:04Z | www.myhighplains.com | 1 child hospitalized after house fire on Southeast 15th | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/1-child-hospitalized-after-house-fire-on-southeast-15th/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/1-child-hospitalized-after-house-fire-on-southeast-15th/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — According to a series of Facebook posts on his campaign webpage, Beto O’Rourke, the Democratic gubernatorial candidate, will be making campaign stops throughout the Texas Panhandle and the surrounding region in the upcoming days.
According to previous reports by MyHighPlains.com, O’Rourke won the Democratic primary for the state’s Governor positions during March’s primary. O’Rourke will face incumbent Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in the Governor’s race in November.
Prior to March’s primary, O’Rourke stopped in Amarillo to speak on education and the impact of career and technical education in mid-December 2021. According to previous reports, O’Rourke met with area education leaders during a roundtable and hosted a campaign rally for members of the community.
The O’Rourke campaign is expected to hit six towns throughout the Texas Panhandle and the surrounding region through Sunday. According to his Facebook page, the campaign is scheduled to host the following campaign stops:
4:30 p.m. at The Refinery, located at 1521 Main St. in Vernon;
6:30 p.m. at the Clarendon College Childress Center, located at 1902 Avenue G NW in Childress;
1:30 p.m. at the River Valley Pioneer Museum, located at 118 N 2nd St. in Canadian;
4:30 p.m. at the Taqueria Dalhart, located at 1301 Chicago St. in Dalhart;
7 p.m. at the Potter County Courthouse, located at 500 S. Fillmore St. in Amarillo;
11:30 a.m. at The Garden, located at 1801 Buddy Holly Ave. #5136 in Lubbock.
For more information on the upcoming election, visit MyHighPlains.com. | 2022-03-17T16:45:36Z | www.myhighplains.com | Beto O’Rourke to make campaign stops in Texas Panhandle | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/beto-orourke-to-make-campaign-stops-in-texas-panhandle/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/beto-orourke-to-make-campaign-stops-in-texas-panhandle/ |
UPDATE: Hollywood Fire 10% contained
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, the Hollywood Fire was estimated to be 10% contained. Officials say that aircraft have been ordered to assist ground crews with suppression activities.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, the Hollywood Fire was estimated to be 5% contained as of 1:50 p.m.
RANDALL COUNTY, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – According to an announcement from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), a fire in Randall County closed FM 2186 from Hill Road to Bushland Road Thursday afternoon.
Drivers are advised to expect detours and plan an alternate route through the area. Further, drivers should remain cautious and keep watch for emergency vehicles and first responders.
via Texas A&M Forest Service
According to a further announcement from the Texas A&M Forest Service, the fire was estimated to span 100 acres and was noted at 0% containment. The forest service referred to the blaze as the Hollywood Fire. | 2022-03-17T19:13:01Z | www.myhighplains.com | UPDATE: Hollywood Fire 10% contained | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/fire-closes-fm-2186-from-hill-to-bushland-road/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/fire-closes-fm-2186-from-hill-to-bushland-road/ |
Hereford man hitting notes and working towards dreams on ‘American Idol’
HEREFORD, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Meet Donavan Diaz. The Hereford man singing his way towards his dream, including a stop at “American Idol” along the way.
He’s been singing for as long as he can remember. “It started when I was a little kid in the shower,” said Diaz, a 19-year-old Hereford native. “Everybody in the house was telling me to shut up.”
Diaz recently auditioned for “American Idol”, and put his range on full display.
“During my audition, I sang ‘Can’t Stop Lovin’. I can sing, or I can jump into some Jennifer Hudson,” he said.
Diaz told us out of 122,000 applicants, only around 360 make it to the celebrity judges. From there, between 50-70 people make it to the televised rounds.
“It was something I never thought I could do because I’m pretty sure I auditioned for “American Idol” like 20 times,” he said. “But I never made it past the first round.”
Although he didn’t win the competition, it was still an experience of a lifetime.
“It was fun, it was really fun. We were in LA for two weeks, I think, doing the filming and stuff,” he said. “Small town boy, being in LA, obviously living his dream.”
His ultimate dream, “I hope to one day win a Grammy.”
While he’s still in pursuit of his dream, he lives by one motto, “life begins when you step outside of your comfort zone.”
You can follow Diaz on his Instagram, and catch Diaz’s next live performance, April 2, in Lubbock. | 2022-03-17T19:13:08Z | www.myhighplains.com | Hereford man hitting notes and working towards dreams on ‘American Idol’ | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/hereford-man-hitting-notes-and-working-towards-dreams-on-american-idol/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/hereford-man-hitting-notes-and-working-towards-dreams-on-american-idol/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Dan True, a longtime Amarillo weatherman, has died, according to True’s family. He was 97.
True’s daughter said he passed away peacefully on March 16 and was surrounded by family. True was a weatherman at KAMR Local 4 News and a Hometown Hero, serving the country in World War II.
Funeral services for True will be private. | 2022-03-17T21:28:34Z | www.myhighplains.com | Longtime Amarillo weatherman, Dan True, has died | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/longtime-amarillo-weatherman-dan-true-has-died/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/longtime-amarillo-weatherman-dan-true-has-died/ |
CLAYTON, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) — According to reports from the U.S. Geological Survey, an earthquake hit south-southwest of Clayton, New Mexico around 2 p.m. MST Thursday.
According to data from the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake had a magnitude of 3.8 and was perceived to be at a depth of around two miles. | 2022-03-17T21:28:58Z | www.myhighplains.com | 3.8 magnitude earthquake hits Clayton, New Mexico Thursday afternoon | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/new-mexico/3-8-magnitude-earthquake-hits-clayton-new-mexico-thursday-afternoon/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/new-mexico/3-8-magnitude-earthquake-hits-clayton-new-mexico-thursday-afternoon/ |
CLAYTON, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials from the Amarillo district of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced that roads around the New Mexico state line have been closed because of severe weather.
According to a tweet from TxDOT’s Twitter account, officials said that US 87 and US 64 are closed at the New Mexico state line “due to severe weather and other factors.” Officials also said that services are unavailable in Clayton at this time.
“Travelers are encouraged to seek alternate routes or hold tight in Dalhart until the situation improves,” the tweet read. | 2022-03-17T23:35:24Z | www.myhighplains.com | Highways closed near New Mexico state line because of severe weather | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/highways-closed-near-new-mexico-state-line-because-of-severe-weather/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/highways-closed-near-new-mexico-state-line-because-of-severe-weather/ |
CLOVIS, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the city of Clovis, New Mexico said that crews are actively fighting a brush fire north of the city on State Road 209.
According to a news release from the city, emergency crews are in the area of SR 209 and CR 27 “actively” fighting a brush fire. Officials said that the smoke of the fire is reaching Clovis because of “prevailing winds.”
Officials are asking individuals who have a sensitivity to smoke to limit their exposure to the outside air. Individuals are also asked to avoid the area of SR 209 and CR 27. | 2022-03-17T23:35:36Z | www.myhighplains.com | Active brush fire reported north of Clovis, New Mexico | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/new-mexico/active-brush-fire-reported-north-of-clovis-new-mexico/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/new-mexico/active-brush-fire-reported-north-of-clovis-new-mexico/ |
This segment is sponsored by Phillips 66.
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) —We all know some amazing educators in our lives, and Phillips 66 is working to highlight educators through their “Live to the Full Heroes” program.
One of the recipients is Alexa Ybarra from Will Rogers Elementary School. She is a counselor and uses things like a sensory room and art therapy to help her students.
The Live to the Full Heroes program takes place each year as part of the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships.
Mrs. Ybarra and the other winners were recognized at the Phillips 66 Big 12 Basketball Championships and receive an additional $6,000 to fund projects in their schools and classrooms. | 2022-03-17T23:36:13Z | www.myhighplains.com | Phillips 66 Highlights Local Educator for “Live to the Full Heroes” Program | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/studio-4/phillips-66-highlights-local-educator-for-live-to-the-full-heroes-program/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/studio-4/phillips-66-highlights-local-educator-for-live-to-the-full-heroes-program/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the Amarillo Fire Department released information on a Thursday evening fire that occurred in an unoccupied home in northeast Amarillo.
According to a news release from the department, officials with the department were dispatched to a fire at an unoccupied home in the 3600 block of NE 24th around 10:03 p.m. Thursday. When officials arrived, they found heavy fire coming from the side of the house.
Officials said there were no injuries in the incident. The release said that crews returned to the scene around 7 a.m. Friday on reports of smoke. Firefighters soaked the house down and returned back to service.
The Amarillo Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the incident, the release said. | 2022-03-18T15:25:16Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo Fire releases details on Thursday unoccupied house fire | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-fire-releases-details-on-thursday-unoccupied-house-fire/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-fire-releases-details-on-thursday-unoccupied-house-fire/ |
ALTUS, Okla. (KAMR/KCIT)- According to the police department in Altus, Oklahoma, an Amarillo man with multiple felony arrest warrants was hospitalized Thursday after a high-speed chase with law enforcement ended in a crash.
According to police, 43-year-old Tommy Lynn Hall was stopped by Altus police on a traffic violation around 2:30 p.m. Thursday on the 100 block of West Broadway. After he was identified during the stop as having arrest warrants from both Texas and New Mexico, Hall drove west on Highway 62 “at speeds in excess of 120 mph.”
The Altus Police Department said that its officers, as well as officials with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, District Highway Patrol, District III Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force and Jackson County Deputies, joined together in chasing Hall for around 40 miles. Four miles west of Hollis, Oklahoma, Highway Patrol was reported to perform a “Tactical Vehicle Intervention.”
The vehicle that Hall was driving wrecked and caught fire, according to police, and he was rescued by law enforcement. He was taken by helicopter to an Oklahoma City hospital for his injuries, though police said that his condition was not known at the time of the report. No injuries to law enforcement agencies were reported.
The Altus Police Department also noted that the Hollis Police Department, Hollis Fire Department, Harmon County Deputies, and Harmon County EMS assisted. | 2022-03-18T18:33:32Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo man injured after high-speed chase, crash | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-man-injured-after-high-speed-chase-crash/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-man-injured-after-high-speed-chase-crash/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Amarillo Fire Department issued a report in the wake of a Thursday morning emergency landing of an A320 Airbus at Rick Husband Amarillo Internation Airport.
According to the department, crews responded to a call at around 11:15 a.m. that reported an inbound plane with smoke in the cabin. The Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting crews set up near the runway before the plane landed, and contacted the pilots about the situation. While the pilots reported some heat in the cockpit area, they did not report flames.
When the plane landed, according to officials, most of the smoke had dissipated, and those on board were able to evacuate at the terminal. Firefighters boarded the plane with what officials described as thermal imaging cameras and found no active heat signatures.
No injuries were reported from the incident, according to the Amarillo Fire Department, though some of the passengers were seen by medical personnel after reporting headaches.
The cause of the smoke in the cabin was unknown at the time of the Amarillo Fire Department report.
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – According to the City of Amarillo, the Amarillo Fire Department responded Thursday to an emergency landing at Rick Husband Amarillo Internation Airport.
Further information on the emergency landing has yet to be released, and fire department crews were on the scene of the emergency landing as of 11:50 a.m. on Thursday, according to city officials.
In an update given by airport police, all 115 people on board left the plane safely, and no one sought medical care. The fire department did not use water to respond to the incident. | 2022-03-18T18:33:44Z | www.myhighplains.com | Smoke triggers emergency plane landing, cause not clear | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/emergency-landing-at-rick-husband-draws-fire-department/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/emergency-landing-at-rick-husband-draws-fire-department/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the 47th District Attorney’s Office released information of the result of the recent four-day trial in Potter County where a jury convicted Lopphay Gum Pratommarath for murder.
According to a post on the 47th District Attorney’s Office’s Facebook page, a jury convicted Pratommarath for the murder of Husin Bi on Thursday in the 108th District Court. The jury found Pratommarath guilty of first-degree murder after 26 minutes of deliberation. The jury assessed a punishment of life in prison. Officials said that Pratommarath previously had a felony conviction for “Burglary of Habitation.”
This comes after officers got a tip regarding a homicide that took place at 927 Columbine, an illegal gaming establishment, in March 2020, the post from the 47th District Attorney’s Office’s Facebook page read. While no body was found at the scene, a body, later identified as Bi’s body, was located in a truck of a car that was on fire, an incident that officials with the Potter County Sheriff’s Office responded to that same afternoon. According to the post, a witness spoke with detectives, saying there was an argument over stolen money that had occurred prior to the shooting. | 2022-03-18T18:33:50Z | www.myhighplains.com | Man sentenced to life in Potter County for 2020 murder | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/man-sentenced-to-life-in-potter-county-for-2020-murder/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/man-sentenced-to-life-in-potter-county-for-2020-murder/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – Two years ago Friday, the city of Amarillo confirmed the first two positive COVID-19 cases in the Amarillo area.
According to previous reports by MyHighPlains.com, two patients tested positive for COVID-19 at 5:37 p.m. on March 18, 2020. In the two years since then, thousands of people within Potter and Randall counties have contracted the virus and have recovered, impacting area hospitals and the way people live their lives day-to-day. However, more than 1,100 Potter and Randall County residents died after contracting the virus over the last two years.
Since March 18, 2021, Potter and Randall counties have seen an increase of 40,567 COVID-19 cases, 40,117 reported COVID-19 recoveries and 490 reported COVID-19 deaths.
March 18, 2021 – 33,450 cases
March 18, 2021 – 32,430 recoveries
March 18, 2021 – 699 deaths
March 18, 2022 – 1,189 deaths
Here are some of the events which have defined the COVID-19 pandemic over the last two years. | 2022-03-18T21:23:58Z | www.myhighplains.com | Friday serves as second-year anniversary of first COVID-19 cases in Amarillo area | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/life-health/health/coronavirus/friday-serves-as-the-second-year-anniversary-of-the-first-covid-19-cases-in-amarillo-area/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/life-health/health/coronavirus/friday-serves-as-the-second-year-anniversary-of-the-first-covid-19-cases-in-amarillo-area/ |
Texas Rangers investigating shooting in Hutchinson County
HUTCHINSON COUNTY, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported that the Texas Rangers are investigating a shooting in Hutchinson County.
According to a statement given to MyHighPlains.com, officials from the Texas DPS say that the Texas Rangers are investigating an officer-involved shooting involving a Hutchinson County Deputy. No further information was given at the time of the statement. | 2022-03-18T21:24:17Z | www.myhighplains.com | Texas Rangers investigating shooting in Hutchinson County | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/texas-rangers-investigating-shooting-in-hutchinson-county/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/texas-rangers-investigating-shooting-in-hutchinson-county/ |
CLOVIS, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the city of Clovis, New Mexico announced today that officials will conduct an automatic recount after the result of the city’s District One Commissioners’ race had a three-vote margin.
According to previous reports by MyHighPlains.com, officials with the city of Clovis reported that George Jones received 208 votes while James Burns received 205 votes in the March 2022 primary for the open District One Commissioners’ seat. The seat is a two-year term.
According to a notice from the city of Clovis, the automatic recount, ordered by the state’s canvassing board, will start at 9 a.m. Wednesday and will continue until it is completed. The recount will be conducted at the Bert Cabiness City Government Center, located at 321 N. Connelly in Clovis.
For more information, individuals are asked to call City Clerk LeighAnn Melancon at 575-763-9632. | 2022-03-18T21:24:59Z | www.myhighplains.com | City of Clovis announces recount of District One Commissioners’ Race | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/city-of-clovis-announces-recount-of-district-one-commissioners-race/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/city-of-clovis-announces-recount-of-district-one-commissioners-race/ |
TTUHSC School of Medicine students participate in Match Day, along with others across the nation
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — It was an exciting day at the Amarillo Civic Center as fourth-year Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine students learned where they will complete their next three to seven years for their residencies as they participated in Match Day.
Regional Dean of the Health Sciences Center School of Medicine Dr. Richard Jordan said Match Day is a big day in the life of a medical student.
“This Match Day is a huge day and probably only second to their graduation as far as celebration and time of excitement,” said Dr. Jordan.
The results of the placements are sealed in an envelope and are opened simultaneously at all of the nation’s medical schools.
According to Texas Tech, Match Day has played out on medical school campuses across the country since 1952.
Jessica Lovelace, along with her boyfriend Collin Telchik were two of those students finding out their placements Friday.
Lovelace said it’s been challenging the past few years with the pandemic but said Friday makes it all worth it.
“With COVID-19, we had to transition from in class to virtual lectures, and so that was really difficult. We weren’t around our classmates every day and around our attendings and those who were teaching our lectures, that was a huge thing about being here today is that we are going to be around all of our friends, our family and just enjoy today,” said Lovelace
Lovelace and Telchik were placed at the Baylor Scott and White Medical Center in Temple, Texas
Dr. Jordan added its exciting to see these students take the next steps towards their careers.
“We hate to see them go, but it’s like your child that’s going to go out and figure their way out in the world, they have to leave the nest sometime and they are getting ready to fly on their own,” said Dr. Jordan.
Dr. Jordan said they have seen an increase in applications to the nursing school, medical school, and others. He said due to the pandemic people are looking to serve and Texas Tech is looking at ways to expand its reach so people can do just that. | 2022-03-18T23:54:24Z | www.myhighplains.com | TTUHSC School of Medicine students participate in Match Day, along with others across the nation | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/ttuhsc-school-of-medicine-students-participate-in-match-day-along-with-others-across-the-nation/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/ttuhsc-school-of-medicine-students-participate-in-match-day-along-with-others-across-the-nation/ |
Edward Jones Details America’s Spending Habits Through New Survey
This segment is sponsored by Edward Jones.
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) —According to a new study from financial services firm Edward Jones, Americans are at crossroads with how they view the current state of the U.S. economy. The survey revealed a correlation between concern and action, as the more concerned adults are with economic conditions, the larger the impact those concerns have on their financial decisions.
The study found that Americans are split 45% (optimistic) to 42% (pessimistic) on their view of the U.S. economy. Top concerns include the rate of inflation, supply chain disruptions, employment rate, and interest rates. Interestingly, the survey revealed a correlation between concern and action, noting that more concern about the economy had a larger impact on financial decisions. Two in five U.S. adults have considered the rate of inflation when making financial decisions in the last nine months. Yet, still, one in five Americans admit to primarily making emotional decisions when it comes to their personal finances.
For more information visit www.EdwardJones.com. | 2022-03-18T23:54:42Z | www.myhighplains.com | Edward Jones Details America’s Spending Habits Through New Survey | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/studio-4/edward-jones-details-americas-spending-habits-through-new-survey/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/studio-4/edward-jones-details-americas-spending-habits-through-new-survey/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — On March 18, 2020, the City of Amarillo reported its first cases of COVID-19 after two people tested positive.
Two years later, health officials have said the Amarillo area is in a much better place in its fight against coronavirus, especially as the Amarillo Public Health Department reported the fewest number of new cases in Potter and Randall Counties since March of 2020.
Dr. Scott Milton, the regional medical director for region one at the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), was the Amarillo Public Health Authority at that time, specializing as an infectious disease doctor. He was also an associate professor of medicine at Texas Tech Physicians and saw patients at Northwest Texas Hospital (NWTHS).
“We had known about the pandemic starting, probably six or eight weeks prior to that and we received our first case at Northwest Texas hospital on that day,” Dr. Milton said when asked about the second anniversary on Friday.
Dr. Milton said the patients who were first admitted to Northwest with COVID-19 had attended the regional basketball tournament in Lubbock twelve days earlier and were from Nazareth.
“So that particular individual that I saw that evening, did survive. He was elderly, he was in the hospital for a month and almost died,” he said. “Obviously, the circumstances at that time is that we had very little knowledge about that illness and how best to treat it. We had no vaccine. We had limited PPE, personal protective equipment. And so it was a real scary, stressful time for everyone. And I’ll never forget going into the room with my PPE on and being very grateful that I had it.”
Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 74,017 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 72,547 recoveries, and 1,189 deaths in Potter and Randall Counties.
“Two years later, you know, we’ve got wonderful vaccines, wonderful American-made vaccines. We’ve got plenty of PPE. But I think we’ve also got a lot of healthcare workers that are fatigued and tired and stressed, you know, from the whole event,” said Dr. Milton.
Dr. Brian Weis, the chief medical officer at NWTHS, said 2021 was very hard on the Panhandle region.
“If we look at another surge, between the lessons we learned and the new tools we have now to treat people with COVID-19, I do hope what we’ll see is a lot less people losing their lives to this virus than had over the last two years,” Dr. Weis said.
With fewer cases in the area each day and very few hospitalizations, Dr. Milton said things are looking up.
“At this point in the pandemic, the likelihood that we’re going to have anything similar to what we’ve been through is very low and I think we’re on the tail end of this, ” said Dr. Milton. “We’re watching this new sub-variant but today, we don’t see any indication that it’s increasing hospitalizations, or people becoming severely ill. So, I think we’re in a much better position overall.”
At this point, Potter and Randall Counties are still seeing a handful of deaths related to COVID-19 each day. Dr. Milton said that is because deaths tend to lag behind a drop in new cases.
“If people are going to get sick enough to be hospitalized, it’s usually 10 to 12 days after they get exposed. Then when they get hospitalized, usually they are so sick, they don’t get out of the hospital right away, especially if they go to ICU,” Dr. Milton added. “The majority of people that are going to pass away from this, typically are in the ICU when that happens.”
He continued, “Because it’s a respiratory illness, they have to be on the ventilator. So, many times they will have to be in the ICU for weeks and weeks and so they’ve been infected a long time ago and then they develop the severe COVID infection and the severe immune response and it just takes weeks and weeks. It’s just, you know, honestly, it was just heartbreaking.”
In Dr. Milton’s new role with DSHS, he said much of his focus has been on vaccine rollout and said so many of the deaths we are still seeing were preventable with vaccines.
“I think that life is gonna get back to a new normal,” he said. “You know, I think that I think the restrictions are being lifted, you know, with mask-wearing and that sort of thing. I agree with that. You know, and I think that we’ve got good people watching this next variant.”
Click here to see a timeline of events which have defined the COVID-19 pandemic over the last two years. | 2022-03-19T01:34:58Z | www.myhighplains.com | Then and now: 2 years since first COVID-19 cases in Amarillo | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/life-health/health/coronavirus/then-and-now-2-years-since-first-covid-19-cases-in-amarillo/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/life-health/health/coronavirus/then-and-now-2-years-since-first-covid-19-cases-in-amarillo/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — When it comes to recovery after COVID-19, everyone who has had the virus will experience a different path to feeling better. In doing so, some may experience what is called long COVID.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, long COVID, also known as post-COVID conditions is a wide range of new, returning, or ongoing health problems people can experience four or more weeks after first being infected with the virus.
Regional Medical Director for region one at the Texas Department of State Health Services Dr. Scott Milton said they are learning all the time about long covid and the issues that it can bring.
“I think it is clear that it is obviously who have gotten infected and many times have gotten seriously infected that are most at risk for getting a long term compilation of covid, whether that be some neurological problems or chronic respiratory problems,” said Dr. Milton.
Dr. Milton said the best way to prevent getting long covid is to get vaccinated.
“We have learned so much more about the vaccines from having them around for more than a year, in how safe and effective they are and so people should be much more reassured if they haven’t been vaccinated yet, that its safe to do so and that’s the best way to prevent that,” added Dr. Milton.
As of July 2021, long COVID can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Dr. Milton also addressed the reason why the High Plains are still seeing deaths as new cases drop on the High Plains.
He says it’s due to a lag.
“If people are going to get sick enough to be hospitalized, it’s usually ten to twelve days after they get exposed, and then when they get hospitalized, usually they are so sick, they don’t get out of the hospital right away. Especially if they go to the ICU. They have been infected a long time ago, then they develop a severe covid infection and a severe immune response and it just takes weeks and weeks,” said Dr. Milton.
As of this writing, the High plains has seen over 2,000 deaths due to COVID-19. | 2022-03-21T00:06:04Z | www.myhighplains.com | Health expert talks COVID-19 and the effects of long COVID | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/health-expert-talks-covid-19-and-the-effects-of-long-covid/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/health-expert-talks-covid-19-and-the-effects-of-long-covid/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – According to the latest reports from GasBuddy, Amarillo gas prices fell 8.8 cents in the last week for an average of $3.60 per gallon Monday morning. Those prices were reported as 55.8 cents per gallon higher than a month ago, despite the fall, and stand $1.04/gallon higher than a year ago.
GasBuddy price reports noted that the cheapest station in Amarillo priced gas at $3.47/gallon on Sunday, while the most expensive was $3.99/gallon, a difference of 52 cents. The lowest price across Texas on Sunday was noted at $3.16/gallon, while the highest was $4.82/gallon, a difference of $1.66.
Nationally, the average price of gasoline fell around 9 cents in the last week, said GasBuddy, for an average of $4.23/gallon Monday morning. That national average was noted as 71.5 cents per gallon up from a month ago and $1.37/gallon higher than a year ago.
Neighboring areas to Amarillo reported gas prices, including:
Lubbock- $3.75/gallon, down 12.1 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.87/gallon.
Midland Odessa- $4.02/gallon, down 3.0 cents per gallon from last week’s $4.05/gallon.
Oklahoma- $3.74/gallon, down 7.9 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.82/gallon. | 2022-03-21T12:26:26Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo gas prices fall 8.8 cents, average $3.60/gallon | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/gas-tracker/amarillo-gas-prices-fall-8-8-cents-average-3-60-gallon/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/gas-tracker/amarillo-gas-prices-fall-8-8-cents-average-3-60-gallon/ |
by: Brad Pennartz, Erin Rosas
CLAUDE, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — One person died after a fatal crash on Sunday morning on US 287, about 17 miles east of Claude, the Texas Highway Patrol reported.
According to the highway patrol, a semi-truck was exiting the rest area on US 287 eastbound and merging onto the highway when, according to patrol, the truck failed to yield and hit a car that was traveling east in the outside lane of US 287.
The driver of the car, who police identified as Coy Crowder, 41, of Nashville, Tenn., was ejected from his car. Crowder was pronounced dead at the scene by Janna Lemons, Armstrong County Justice of the Peace, while the driver of the semi-truck was uninjured.
The Texas Department of Public Safety noted that the crash remains under investigation. | 2022-03-21T12:26:38Z | www.myhighplains.com | 1 dead after Sunday morning fatal crash near Claude | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/1-dead-after-sunday-morning-fatal-crash-near-claude/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/1-dead-after-sunday-morning-fatal-crash-near-claude/ |
Starting the morning with mild temperatures in the upper 40s to low 50s. Cloud cover will continue to move into the forecast and cloudy conditions will be present throughout the day. Brief showers already moving into the forecast for NW part of the Panhandle this morning. Showers will continue to progress into the afternoon as a low-pressure system will move through the region. Much-needed moisture will fall throughout the area. A Marginal risk of severe weather for southern parts of the area with a Slight risk to the far SE. High winds up to 60 mph and hail up to 1.25″ will be possible.
As we cool down behind the front, mixed precipitation will fall. Snow will take place as we end the day and into tomorrow morning. A Winter Weather Advisory from 7 p.m. until 10 a.m. tomorrow as some areas could receive up to 3 inches of snow. | 2022-03-21T12:29:11Z | www.myhighplains.com | From t-showers to winter weather | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/weather-headlines/forecast/from-t-showers-to-winter-weather/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/weather-headlines/forecast/from-t-showers-to-winter-weather/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — The Turn Center of Amarillo is continually working to improve the lives of special needs children in our area, serving over 1,400 children with more than 200 diagnoses each year.
Their vision?
“To improve the health of children with development differences,” said Carolina Cantrell, Turn Center Director of Development.
Cantrell says they offer therapy in a multitude of areas.
“Physical, occupational, speech, feeding therapy, and also mental health services for children,” she said.
Turn Center serves over 1,400 across the High Plains, recognizing the earlier development starts, the better.
“Early intervention is critical,” Cantrell said. The sooner a parent or physician can recognize a child can benefit from therapy, they can bring that child in, give them an evaluation, and make sure they receive the treatment necessary to help them reach their developmental goals.”
Turn Center hires new executive director
Those goals include, “verbalization, to improving muscle tone, to being able to communicate with the world around them,” she continued.
To help these children reach their goals, the Turn Center is bringing back its Celebration of Hope fundraiser, for the first time since 2019. And, it will look a little different this year.
“We’re going to have a family fun day here at Turn Center, a sponsored dinner, also at Turn Center, and we’re going to have a golf tournament,” she said.
Cantrell says Celebration of Hope raises nearly $300,000 for the center, and seeing children meet or exceed their goals is what it’s all about.
“It’s been so wonderful to see them grow and be able to meet their goals,” she said. “To do things that sometimes people take for granted, like learning how to walk, learning how to talk, how to eat.”
According to Cantrell, Family Fun Day is April 2, the dinner is April 9, and the golf tournament is April 22 at Tascosa Country Club.
For more information on the Celebration of Hope, email Carolina Cantrell at carolina@turncenter.org. | 2022-03-21T16:03:24Z | www.myhighplains.com | Heart Of The High Plains: Turn Center of Amarillo | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/heart-of-the-high-plains-turn-center-of-amarillo/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/heart-of-the-high-plains-turn-center-of-amarillo/ |
CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with West Texas A&M University announced Monday that the university has joined a national collaborative research partnership aimed to help increase opportunities in the Air Force for certain students on campus.
According to a news release from the university, West Texas A&M will be participating in the Air Force Research Laboratory Minority Leaders – Research Collaboration Program, giving minority science, technology, engineering, and mathematics students and graduates more opportunities.
Officials say the program increases “collaborative research partnerships” between the organization and the university, engaging a diverse group of scientists and engineers helping address challenges in research to help support the Airforce’s air, space, and cyberspace technology needs.
“WT is eager to support and build this research partnership with AFRL while continuing to expand research opportunities for our students,” Angela Spaulding, vice president of research and compliance and dean of the WT Graduate School, said in the release.
The release said that the Air Force Research Laboratory Minority Leaders program has previously funded individual graduate student research projects. The goal is to create a national infrastructure, bringing students through the program and strengthening research connections.
“There are many benefits to this program,” Asheley Blackford, AFRL ML-RCP program manager, said in the release. “It creates a new source of quality university research with a highly trained pool of excellent student and engineering graduates. It also increases diversity of the workforce along with allowing access to innovative thoughts from culturally and scientifically diverse sources.”
Vinu Unnikrishnan, an assistant professor of civil engineering in the university’s College of Engineering, is West Texas A&M’s first recipient of the cooperative agreement with the program for the next two years. Unnikrishnan will work with the program on “composite materials” and their “applications of relevance” to the group.
“This ML-RCP collaboration provides a unique opportunity for our students to be able to interact with and work closely on cutting-edge research, which is in the forefront of technology,” Unnikrishnan said in the release. | 2022-03-21T16:03:25Z | www.myhighplains.com | West Texas A&M joins Air Force research program partnership | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/west-texas-am-joins-air-force-research-program-partnership/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/west-texas-am-joins-air-force-research-program-partnership/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — A child was rescued from a burning structure thanks to the quick actions made by our local first responders.
“It’s definitely going to be one of the most memorable calls of my career,” said Matt Jolliff, Amarillo Fire Department.
That call that Jolliff is referring to, came in at 9 a.m. last Thursday.
It was for a structure fire on the 3400 block of Southeast 15th Street.
“They were saying that a child was possibly trapped inside. Whenever we got on scene there was a woman out front just saying that their kid was in there and they showed us where. It definitely gets your heart racing and makes everything a pretty serious situation,” said Jolliff.
Due to the heavy black smoke, the paramedic already on scene was unable to get to the child.
That is when Jolliff, along with Joey Sykes made their way inside.
“I believe we were probably inside that structure within a minute, 30 seconds to a minute. We broke the window out, jumped in and began to search. When we entered in, we had floor-to-ceiling black smoke, couldn’t see anything. We heard the baby cry and that directed us to the right direction for Matt to grab her and bring her out,” said Joey Sykes, Amarillo Fire Department.
AFD said the child was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation and at last check is doing well, thanks to those life-saving efforts.
But Jolliff and Sykes said they were just doing their jobs.
“You could change us out with any person in the department right now and I believe it would’ve been the same result,” said Sykes.
“It’s not every day you get to pull out a viable victim from a fire. It’s definitely going to resonate with me,” said Jolliff.
According to AFD, three dogs were also rescued from the fire.
The Amarillo Fire Marshal’s Office has ruled the fire as accidental. | 2022-03-21T22:01:22Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo firefighters reflect back on saving child’s life in recent fire | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-firefighters-reflect-back-on-saving-childs-life-in-recent-fire/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-firefighters-reflect-back-on-saving-childs-life-in-recent-fire/ |
CLAYTON, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) is reporting an outage near Clayton, New Mexico, impacting more than 1,000 customers.
According to the PNM website, an outage was reported near Clayton around 3:02 p.m. Monday, impacting 1,451 customers. Officials expect the power to be restored around 4:30 p.m. Monday. Officials did not provide a cause for the outage. | 2022-03-21T22:02:03Z | www.myhighplains.com | Thousands of New Mexico residents impacted by outage | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/new-mexico/thousands-of-new-mexico-residents-impacted-by-outage/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/new-mexico/thousands-of-new-mexico-residents-impacted-by-outage/ |
LIVE: Tornado Warning issued in parts of Clay, Montague Counties
UPDATE: Monday, March 21, 2022 at 4:25 p.m.
A new Tornado Warning has been issued for parts of Clay and Montague Counties until 5 p.m. Affected cities in the warning include Bowie, Montague, Nocona, Saint Jo, and Sunset. Residents of those cities should take cover now.
The tornado has been spotted by KFDX Storm Chaser Kyle Guthrie, who is currently chasing the storm in Jack and Montague Counties.
Residents of Bowie should take cover in their safe space now. A tornado has been confirmed to be on the ground.
Stick with Texoma’s Homepage for updates.
According to the DFW Scanner Twitter account, first responders are reporting major damage in the area of Jacksboro. Major structural damage has been reported with trees blocking portions of U.S. Highway 380, firefighters report major damage in the area of Highway 380 and FM 4.
DFW Scanner also reports that all Jack County fire departments have been dispatched to assist with “major damage” in Jacksboro.
A tornado warning has been issued for Jack County, including the city of Jacksboro.
A radar confirmed tornado is currently on the ground in Jack County, south of U.S. Highway 380 between Bryson and Jacksboro, heading in the direction of Jacksboro.
Velocity index shows an area of high rotation. KFDX Storm Spotter Kyle Guthrie is in Jacksboro as the storm approaches the city. Guthrie has not been able to spot it as of now, indicating the tornado is most likely rain-wrapped and will not be visible.
Guthrie said he has spotted the rotational area. He said he does not see a tornado, but the rotational area is spinning rapidly.
Residents of Jacksboro are urged to take cover in your safe space now.
TEXOMA (KFDX/KJTL) — In the midst of the severe drought facing most Texoma counties, rain is always needed and welcomed. However, the rain showers currently dampening Texoma have a chance to develop into thunderstorms later in the day.
Current forecast models suggest a possibility of potentially severe thunderstorms to develop in the afternoon hours on Monday, March 21, 2022.
Beginning around 3 p.m., much of Texoma will be at a slight risk for thunderstorm activity, with wind gusts of up to and beyond 60 miles per hour and hail up to a maximum of golf ball sized.
At a marginal risk of thunderstorms are northern parts of Comanche and Kiowa counties in Oklahoma.
Southeastern parts of Texoma will see an enhanced possibility for thunderstorms, including most of Jack County, southern parts of Clay and Montague Counties, and eastern parts of Young County.
According to KFDX/KJTL Chief Meteorologist Michael Bohling, large hail and damaging winds are the most likely threats, but a couple of tornadoes are possible as well.
“The tornado threat is low, but a tornado cannot be ruled out at this time,” Bohling said. | 2022-03-21T22:02:16Z | www.myhighplains.com | LIVE: Tornado Warning issued in parts of Clay, Montague Counties | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/texas/live-tornado-warning-issued-in-parts-of-clay-montague-counties/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/texas/live-tornado-warning-issued-in-parts-of-clay-montague-counties/ |
CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the city of Canyon’s City Commission is scheduled to host its regular meeting at 4:30 p.m. Monday in the commission’s chambers of City Hall, located at 301 16th St. in Canyon.
According to the agenda, officials are expected to consider and take action on recommending an architect for the “proposed construction for a police station and renovations of city hall.” Other items that are expected to come up during Monday’s meeting include:
Consider and take appropriate action on bids received for Micro-Surfacing Project – 2022;
Presentation from City Engineer updating status of current Public Works projects;
Consider and take appropriate action on recommendations from Board of City Development;
Executive session pursuant to 551.071 Consultation with Attorney, 551.072 for deliberation regarding real property and 551.087 economic development negotiations;
Consider and take appropriate action on items discussed in executive session.
Officials said the meeting is broadcast on YouTube on the city’s page. While YouTube does provide closed captioning on the recorded video, officials said it is not provided in real-time. | 2022-03-21T22:02:28Z | www.myhighplains.com | City of Canyon to host regular City Commission meeting | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/city-of-canyon-to-host-regular-city-commission-meeting/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/city-of-canyon-to-host-regular-city-commission-meeting/ |
DALHART, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — After fleeing their home in Kyiv, Ukraine, Jim and Maryna Noyes came to the U.S. to stay in Dalhart as the Russian invasion continues. There, they are working to raise funds to send back to Ukraine.
Jim and Maryna met in Texline when she came from Ukraine to the U.S. to study. That is when she met Jim, who was a widow at the time. He is a former teacher and principal who lived in Dalhart and the surrounding area.
“I agreed to marry him but I said, ‘Jim, there’s one thing. I’m not leaving Ukraine. I felt I always felt like I have a mission in Ukraine,'” said Maryna. “And Jim agreed to move there. So we’ve been living together there for 21 years now.”
In 2002, they helped to establish a church congregation in Kyiv called Vinogradov Church.
“We were collecting and saving money for our congregation to build a church and only two years ago, we were able to build a church. We were so happy, we were so happy to have this place of our own because before that we had to rent all this time,” said Marina on Monday. “And yesterday, there was a bombing in the mall center, about 500 meters or half a mile from our church building.”
Jim and Maryna said they stayed at their apartment in Kyiv when the war started, eventually putting two beds in the hall between two solid walls.
“The bomb shelter was too far from our house so we decided we would stay in the house,” she said. “But the bombing was every night and we couldn’t stand that we did not feel safe even in between the two solid walls. So on March the fifth, we left Kyiv.”
They traveled through Ukraine, staying in Vinnytsia, the next night in Lutsk, and then two nights in Poland. On March 9, four days later, they flew out of Warsaw to get to the U.S.
“We took one change of clothes and prayed and found people that would help us get where we needed to go,” said Jim. “A couple of people we knew, rest of them we never knew, never saw before. But they volunteered to help us to get where we needed to go.”
Jim and Maryna said their son Andrey, their daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters were able to leave Ukraine and are safe.
“They’re fine. They’re with friends and they would love to come to the United States but they have a problem with passports for their girls, for their children,” said Maryna. “We hope they will be able to solve that problem and then they will be able to come here.”
Maryna said although Ukrainian men of a certain age range are not allowed to leave the country, Andrey was allowed to leave because of one exception.
“Our younger [grand] daughter, she is only 16 months old. She’s just happy to be with mommy and daddy,” said Maryna. “We were fortunate that my son was able to cross the border because our older granddaughter is a tremendous blessing. She’s a disabled child and because of that, that she’s disabled, her father was able to go…”
When they finally decided to leave Ukraine, Jim said there were a few factors.
“My adopted son, her son Andrey Noyes and his wife, Marina, said, ‘We’ve got to get the daughters, our grandchildren out of here.’ I said, ‘We will go, we will go with you.'”
Jim also said a little girl they had worked with died in the bombing in Mariupol’.
Maryna said she and Jim usually visit the U.S. twice a year for a month or so to see friends and family.
“I have never ever felt homesick when I would be here because I knew I would be able to come back in a month. This time, as never before, I feel homesick,” she said.
They speak with church members daily and said those who are away from Ukraine want desperately to return.
“May this be as soon as possible over so that we all could come back. We all want to come back,” she added. “We love [the] United States. We like it here but our home is there, and we hope that home stays.”
She continued, “We still do not know if our apartment building will stand there when we come back. It’s hard to live. We just live day by day.”
Until they can return to Kyiv, the Noyes family is raising funds to send them back to Ukraine.
“We feel like the Lord has a mission for us here and that’s simply to get, raise funds for the people that are in distress back there,” said Jim. “Because we have family and friends here. We’ll get by. But we need to, and the response so far has been tremendous.”
Jim said on Monday they had already raised more than $10,000 for people in Ukraine.
“More coming in every day,” he said. “And they’re holding it until we can get a route established to get it to the banks in Ukraine.”
Maryna said they are planning how to restore their country after the war.
“We now already thinking, what it will be like and the ministry that our church might be able to develop after the war activity is over,” said Maryna. “There is no doubt in our mind, God is for us.”
While Maryna said she was surprised by the invasion, she is confident the Ukrainian people will win the war.
“Our escape was a tremendous proof of God’s protection and I think one of the ways we see God’s hand there is the hearts of people,” said Maryna. “Our people are very courageous. Our people, the main value of our people is freedom. They’re ready to die, to have freedom for their children. There is no doubt in their minds.”
Amarillo Catholic Church to host mass to pray for Ukraine conflict
She offered perspective, saying while many people in the U.S. worry about their daily lives and gas prices, Ukrainians are dodging bombs and missiles.
“I think Americans should be thankful for where they are and just be thankful for your wonderful country, your freedom, and even if the prices go up, it’s not the end of the world trust me,” she added.
Jim said they do not know how long they will be in Dalhart but they are determined to help while they are away.
“When we’re displaced, we don’t have jobs, we don’t have income, but we still need to sleep, something to eat,” he said. “We just have lots of needs and that’s not going to stop from next 2, 3, 4 or five years. So, the funds that are sent to help us, it will be used for the people who have lost homes and almost everything.”
Jim has also dealt with many health challenges.
“In the last few years, I’ve had heart surgery, I’ve had colon cancer surgery,” said Jim, noting they are trying to get him a checkup appointment at MD Anderson. “These things go along, just part of life, in spite of whatever else is going on. And that’s true with everybody, not just me.”
Maryna also reflected on the Russian-state media campaigns that led to the invasion and are continuing.
“There are lots of good people in Russia, but they are absolutely misinformed and many of them are brainwashed. I have a sister-in-law in Moscow and a nephew in Moscow. It’s impossible to talk to them and have them understand what’s going on. They believe their propaganda,” she said.
She continued, saying, “That’s not the only case. My daughter-in-law, finally she said, ‘I lost my uncle because I tell my uncle who lives in Russia about what’s happening here. And he says, ‘No, that’s not true.” They believe their TV more than they believe their relatives in Ukraine.”
But Jim and Maryna believe Ukrainians will defend their republic.
“They’ve had three decades of freedom and they grew to like it, especially the younger generation,” said Jim. “They know about the USSR, and they don’t want to go back. They’re ready to stand and never go back, and they’re determined. They’re very determined to stay.” | 2022-03-22T02:51:52Z | www.myhighplains.com | Couple leaves their home in Kyiv, comes to Dalhart to raise funds for Ukraine | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/top-stories/couple-leaves-their-home-in-kyiv-comes-to-dalhart-to-raise-funds-for-ukraine/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/top-stories/couple-leaves-their-home-in-kyiv-comes-to-dalhart-to-raise-funds-for-ukraine/ |
Okla. (KAMR/KCIT) The Commissioner of Public Safety, as authorized by the governor, has announced that due to inclement weather state agencies may temporarily reduce non-essential services beginning at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, March 22, and ending at 10 a.m., according to a news release from the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
The following counties will be affected said Oklahoma DPS:
Cimmaron
DPS said state employees designated to maintain basic minimum services (staff essential functions) should remain at work or report to work as scheduled. | 2022-03-22T05:03:45Z | www.myhighplains.com | Oklahoma DPS to reduce non-essential services due to weather | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/oklahoma/oklahoma-dps-to-reduce-non-essential-services-due-to-weather/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/oklahoma/oklahoma-dps-to-reduce-non-essential-services-due-to-weather/ |
Update: As of 9:10 a.m. on Tuesday, Xcel Energy reported 219 outages impacted 11,991 customers across the Texas Panhandle.
Update: As of 7:20 a.m. on Tuesday, Xcel Energy reported 176 outages impacting over 11,740 customers across the Texas Panhandle.
Update: As of 6:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Xcel Energy reported 206 power outages impacting over 8,300 customers across the Texas Panhandle.
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – As winter weather continued to impact the High Plains into Tuesday morning, Xcel Energy’s power outage report showed 158 outages across the region as of 6 a.m.
As of 6 a.m. on Tuesday, the outage map showed that around 9,420 customers were being impacted by power outages, with over 87 of those outages impacting Amarillo.
The severe weather across the High Plains resulted in not only multiple power outages going into Tuesday morning, but some schools and businesses delayed their schedules or closed for the day.
For the latest updates on weather, power outages, and other events, check with MyHighPlains.com. | 2022-03-22T14:38:25Z | www.myhighplains.com | Local power outages, winter weather impact thousands | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/power-outages-impact-thousands-in-high-plains-weather/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/power-outages-impact-thousands-in-high-plains-weather/ |
A Winter Weather Advisory is now in effect until 7 AM this morning. We are still tracking some snow this morning and low visibility due to high winds. Visibility has been reduced to less than a mile for portions of the interstate, especially for us here in Amarillo and to the northwest. Snow is expected to come to an end as we approach mid-morning. As snow will cover the ground and cloud cover will persist, temperatures will be well below average for this time of year. Highs will range in the 40s to 50s for this afternoon and windy conditions will continue.
MORE HERE || Closings and Delays
Much needed moisture came down yesterday and overnight. However, as far as the rest of the workweek, we are tracking a warming trend into Friday. Highs will be back into the 70s and the possibility of those 80s as we start the next work week. | 2022-03-22T14:39:26Z | www.myhighplains.com | Snow comes to an end; windy and cold day ahead | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/weather-headlines/forecast/snow-comes-to-an-end-windy-and-cold-day-ahead/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/weather-headlines/forecast/snow-comes-to-an-end-windy-and-cold-day-ahead/ |
CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with the Randall County District Attorney’s office recently announced the result of a recent bench trial that occurred in the 47th District Court.
According to a post made on the Randall County District Attorney’s Facebook page, Joshua Lee Cal was officially convicted of aggravated robbery after a bench trial was hosted in the 47th District Court on March 17. A bench trial is a case heard by a judge “in lieu of a jury” at the request of the defendant.
This comes after a gunpoint robbery in August 2020 where Cal, as well as another person, robbed a phone store in south Amarillo, stealing money and cell phones before leaving the store, according to the post. Cal was later identified as the person involved with other robberies from cell phone stores as well as a robbery from an Amarillo hotel.
At the end of the hearing, the judge sentenced Cal to 30 years in prison through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, the post said. | 2022-03-22T18:34:17Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo man sentenced for August 2020 robbery | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-man-sentenced-for-august-2020-robbery/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-man-sentenced-for-august-2020-robbery/ |
CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Officials with West Texas A&M University are celebrating a retiring history professor’s contributions to the university’s gender studies program.
After 21 years of teaching at West Texas A&M University, Jean Stunz, a history professor and the founder of the university’s gender studies program, will be honored at a symposium at 2 p.m. Friday in the Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex Recital Hall on the university’s Canyon campus.
According to a news release from the university, the symposium will feature presentations from five visiting scholars, discussing their collaborations with Stuntz over the years and providing insight into the current state of women’s history. The scholars participating in Friday’s symposium are:
Angela Boswell of Henderson State University;
Stephanie Cole of the University of Texas – Arlington;
Deborah Liles of Tarleton State University;
Amy Porter of Texas A&M University – San Antonio;
Rebecca Sharpless of Texas Christian University.
Prior to the symposium, West Texas A&M faculty, alumni, and graduate students, along with the visiting scholars, will have their gender studies-related works featured at a come-and-go research fair in the atrium of Mary Moody Northen Hall. Stuntz will also be celebrated following the symposium.
According to the release, Stuntz began at West Texas A&M University in 2001, focusing on various topics of history like Texas history, U.S. women’s history, and world history. Stuntz, along with Kristina Drumheller, the head of the university’s department of history at the time, along with Alice Miller MacPhee, a graduate student, got a certificate in gender studies approved as part of the university’s curriculum in 2015.
“I came at gender studies through women’s history. The more I read from other scholars, the more I got into theories of gender studies, and it was fascinating to me,” Stuntz said in the release. “People are all different, and I love learning about why that is — that’s the historian in me. I think my legacy will be bringing the knowledge of gender studies to students who otherwise will not ever known it existed—that women had an effect on history and that this is a legitimate field to study.” | 2022-03-22T18:34:23Z | www.myhighplains.com | West Texas A&M to honor retiring history professor | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/west-texas-am-to-honor-retiring-history-professor/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/west-texas-am-to-honor-retiring-history-professor/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — On Tuesday, the Amarillo City Council approved the sale of approximately $7 million in certificates of obligation to address lighting issues at parks across the city.
The City of Amarillo’s Assistant City Manager and Chief Financial Officer, Laura Storrs, said these are bonds the council has advertised over the past couple of months to sell for athletic field lighting funds.
“We have old worn-out lighting. We have a lot of lights that have actually fallen down in recent wind storms and we were looking to really address those heavily-used areas, especially in the athletic field areas,” said Storrs on Tuesday. “We will also stop seeing the swaying light poles in some of the softball and baseball areas. That certainly is a safety hazard.”
The council approved the item by a vote of 3-1. Councilmember Place 1 Cole Stanley was the sole vote against it. Mayor Ginger Nelson was absent for that vote.
Storrs said the City had 10 bids on their bonds and were able to secure an interest rate of 2.92%.
“In today’s market, especially with interest rates being raised yesterday, there’s a lot of volatility in the markets with the war going on and those things,” she said. “We’re very pleased with the results of this sale.”
According to Storrs, with Amarillo’s growth in taxable values, the debt issuance should have a minimal increase on residents’ property tax bills.
“We’re looking at probably three-tenths of a penny increase a very, very minimal amount,” Storrs said. “Even if taxable values continue to grow, there is an opportunity that a taxpayer may not even feel a change related to this debt issuance.”
She said the debt issuance allows the City to move forward with one major project to get lighting issues addressed, instead of picking and choosing smaller projects.
“We do have an annual set budget and right now it supports the current service levels for the city and so we don’t really have the capabilities to shift those funds from one place to another,” Storrs added.
The City said to fund the rest of the lighting project, about $2.2 million will come from American Rescue Plan Act funding.
“There were about four projects in some of the low-to-moderate income areas of Amarillo that do qualify for the American Rescue Plan Act funding and so, Council chose to utilize that funding for those areas.”
Storrs said over the next several months, citizens can expect to see upgrades in athletic field lighting, including at soccer, baseball, and softball fields across Amarillo.
“A lot of those lighting, some of them have not been utilized in years because they were no longer compatible with the upgraded systems that Xcel Energy has,” said Storrs. “So we had to turn them off and so, and that was in some of the soccer field areas over in John stiff Park.”
She said the City will likely have the funds on hand by late April.
“We have been going through a request for proposals to start moving forward on the design in the actual construction phases of those of the lighting project. So the money will be in the bank in plenty of time to kick off those construction projects.”
However, Storrs said this will not be an overnight project.
“It’s going to take several months because there is underground work that has to be done and upgrading of some systems and then poles will be installed and new lighting,” Storrs added. “We’ll have LED lighting. It’ll be more efficient.”
Storrs continued, “There’s all kinds of new technology out where the lighting doesn’t spread out and if there’s a neighborhood close by, it doesn’t necessarily go into the neighbor’s houses, it stays very focused on on the areas that it’s providing light for.”
According to Storrs, athletic fields at John Stiff Park, Martin Road Park, and Rick Klein Memorial Park will all see lighting upgraded.
“There’s some other ones, some more minor ones but we’re hitting those big regional parks, especially where the athletic fields are present,” she said.
While Storrs did not have an exact timeline for the project, she said the City will work strategically to avoid interrupting any of the athletic play on the fields. | 2022-03-22T22:35:49Z | www.myhighplains.com | Amarillo City Council approves debt issuance for athletic field lighting updates | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-city-council-approves-debt-issuance-for-athletic-field-lighting-updates/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/amarillo-city-council-approves-debt-issuance-for-athletic-field-lighting-updates/ |
Non-profit “Childress Helping Hands” helping out residents in need
CHILDRESS, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — A new non-profit in Childress aims to help out those facing financial troubles.
“We need to have something that helps those people that fall through the cracks. I don’t want to see somebody who has to choose between eating and buying their medicine,” said Kacy Crouch, Childress Helping Hands President.
That is what Crouch hopes to accomplish with the new non-profit, “Childress Helping Hands.”
“I just really hope to get everybody that’s struggling. Once you get in a hole, it’s really hard to dig out of it,” said Crouch.
It all begins with going through an application process that includes a number of questions.
“Are they working? What happened that put them in this situation but they’re in a bind now that they’re needing help? We ask for copies of bills, things that they’re in need with and then the board will discuss it,” said Crouch.
They can help out in a variety of ways.
“We can do any utilities. We’ll help with groceries. We’ll help with rent, clothing, something is happening to where you’re needing clothing. Something for your household, just whatever it is,” said Crouch.
Doing whatever they can to help out their fellow neighbor.
“If we can help people get out of those holes and help them get lined out to where they can live comfortably. Get them level and work with them and get rid of a lot of the struggle here,” said Crouch.
Crouch said they can also help people apply for financial assistance programs as well as assist them in creating a budget.
If you would like to learn more about “Childress Helping Hands” and all they have to offer, you can call Kacy Crouch at (940) 585-9740 or check out their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/ctxhelpinghands | 2022-03-22T22:35:57Z | www.myhighplains.com | Non-profit “Childress Helping Hands” helping out residents in need | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/non-profit-childress-helping-hands-helping-out-residents-in-need/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/non-profit-childress-helping-hands-helping-out-residents-in-need/ |
CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – As the city of Canyon has grown over recent years, officials are in the initial stages of the proposed construction of a police station and undergoing renovations of Canyon’s city hall. Another step towards that goal was taken during the city commission’s most recent meeting.
During Monday’s meeting, the Canyon City Commission passed a measure, recommending Sims Architects to be the firm heading up the proposed construction of a police station and renovations of city hall.
In a presentation made to the Canyon City Commission, Beau Boyer, the city’s budgeting and purchasing manager, said five architecture firms responded to the request for qualification for the items. This involves the initial phase of the project, including site location, space studies, preliminary design and cost estimates.
Joe Price, the city manager for the city of Canyon, said that conversations surrounding renovations to City Hall and building a new police station have occurred for the last five to seven years. The city previously conducted a space study surrounding the project, which they incorporated into the city’s strategic plan.
“This has been in the works for quite some time. Ultimately, what’s happening is as our community grows, our staff has to grow with it. So, we’re exceeding the allowances of space in our current facilities and that’s kind of promulgated where we’re at today on needing more space,” Price said. “One of the goals is to plan for future city staff growth… as we move into the future. We built this city hall back in the 1970s and it’s almost been 50 years. Our population has grown by exactly 50% over 50 years so this building has really done what it is meant to be. It is just time to continue to grow with the community that we have.”
The advantage that Sims Architects has with this particular project is that it was the firm that conducted the initial space study for the project, Price said. The company’s experience working with the city of Amarillo is also an advantage, bringing a lot of experience to the table.
Overall, this plan contributes to the city’s recent focus on planning for the future growth of Canyon as a whole, Price said.
“We’re really turning the corner of planning for tomorrow. We’re trying to get away from being a retroactive-based community in terms of the decisions we make,” Price said. “We’re trying to bring more information to the table for our commissioners to make long-term, educated, decisions in the way we grow, the way our facilities move forward, the way we plan for projects. We’re trying to plan today for tomorrow so we’re trying… (to be) a more proactive city and planning things out years in advance and just being a very well-oiled machine.”
These improvements could expand the city’s footprint as well as the community, Price said. Price expressed his appreciation for the city of Canyon’s residents and what they do for the community.
“We have a very educated populace that fully understands what it means to plan for the future and they have been very receptive in the way we’ve communicated these decisions that we’re making or the potential decisions to be made,” he said. “We appreciate their support and their love for this community. We have a great thing here in Canyon. People want to be here and we have something very special in this community. It’s great to be a part of that.”
The city of Canyon will now enter negotiations with Sims Architects. Officials expect that the firm will help prepare the city to go out to a bond regarding the projects in May 2023. If the city does not come to an agreement with Sims, the city will then move to the next qualified firm.
For more information about the city of Canyon, visit the city of Canyon’s website.
Courtesy: City of Canyon Facebook page. | 2022-03-22T22:37:50Z | www.myhighplains.com | Canyon City Commission takes next steps on future police station, city hall improvements | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/canyon-city-commission-takes-next-steps-on-future-police-station-city-hall-improvements/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/canyon-city-commission-takes-next-steps-on-future-police-station-city-hall-improvements/ |
FORTH WORTH, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — The National Weather Service Fort Worth released a Preliminary Storm Survey, from March 21, confirming 11 tornadoes for counties in North/Central Texas.
The survey confirms 11 tornadoes, seven EF1 tornadoes, two EF0, one EF2, and one EF3.
The NWS said that it has more surveys to complete this week. | 2022-03-23T04:18:28Z | www.myhighplains.com | 11 tornadoes confirmed, so far, for North/Central Texas counties by NWS | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/11-tornadoes-confirmed-so-far-for-north-central-texas-counties-by-nws/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/11-tornadoes-confirmed-so-far-for-north-central-texas-counties-by-nws/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Amarillo College announced its Art Force Piano Series will conclude with a tribute to Ludwig van Beethoven on April 5, at 7:30 p.m., at the Concert Hall Theater on AC’s Washington Street Campus and with the help of a sponsorship from David D. & Nona S. Payne Foundation, Inc., an encore performance will be done on April 12, at 7:30 p.m. at the Texas Crown Performance Hall, 404 S. 6th St., in Canadian.
AC said David Palmer, the artistic director of Chamber Music Amarillo, and violinist Evgeny Zvonnikov of the Harrington String Quartet will present “Beethoven 250”.
Their selections will be in honor of Beethoven, whose 250th birthday was in 2020 during the pandemic.
AC said both performances are free and open to the public and represent the final installments of the five-concert Art Force Piano Series.
“This has been an especially entertaining and rewarding Piano Series, and we are extremely grateful to our sponsors and to all the musicians whose contributions helped make it special,” said Dr. Bruce Lin, artistic director for the concert series and director of piano at AC. “And we may have saved the best concert for last because David Palmer and Evgeny Zvonnikov are supremely talented, and “Beethoven 250” will be a treat I know everyone will enjoy. I’m especially happy that it will be performed not once, but twice.” | 2022-03-23T04:18:34Z | www.myhighplains.com | Art Force Piano Series to conclude with tribute to Ludwig van Beethoven | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/art-force-piano-series-to-conclude-with-tribute-to-ludwig-van-beethoven/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/art-force-piano-series-to-conclude-with-tribute-to-ludwig-van-beethoven/ |
AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — As we continue to honor Remarkable Women this March, our third finalist is Amanda Schaumburg.
Courtesy: Amanda Schaumburg
Between helping kids to find their voices as a speech-language pathologist and volunteering, she stays busy. Schaumburg is not only inspiring others but also proving that dreams can come true with hard work and determination.
“My job is to help children and families find their voice, and communicate in their environment, and it that looks like a lot of different things,” said Schaumburg. “So when people think of speech therapists, they usually think, you know, ‘R’ sounds are maybe helping kids with lisps, but there’s so much more that goes into it.”
Schaumburg teaches speech therapy classes, mainly in public school settings.
She has also worked with the Turn Center.
“When I see a child make progress, with communicating, it’s just so amazing,” she said. “And families are able to connect with their child better, and they’re able to access their, you know, the curriculum at school and play with their peers.”
She also helps kids with language and vocabulary interventions, stuttering, and even developing their social skills.
“It’s just communication is such, you know, a basic human need and I just feel so honored that that’s my job,” said Schaumburg.
She also volunteers—a LOT.
Schaumburg serves on the board of a nonprofit called Smiles for Speech. There, she also serves as a resource creator.
“We provide speech therapy, occupational therapy, and also resources and training to underserved communities all around the globe,” she said about the nonprofit. “We just had a trip in December to Kenya and Ghana, where we’re establishing some programs. So that’s kind of where a lot of my time goes.”
She has also been involved with several local nonprofit organizations, including the Boy Scouts, Panhandle Regional Speech and Hearing Association, and coaching her Kids, Inc. teams.
“But my biggest passion is my special olympics teams,” she said. “I coach swimming and track for a team here in Amarillo. We’re the Tornadoes.”
In her career, Schaumburg took the long way around, but that didn’t stop her from succeeding.
“I’m a first-generation college student and then I also was a single mom. So, I got a job as a social worker and I worked for Child Protective Services during grad school,” said Schaumburg. “And I just say that because it really opened my eyes to what was really going on in our community right here.”
She said her time as a social worker helped her to better understand the barriers that families face in getting services for their kids.
“It took me about four years to get my graduate degree, which it’s typically a two-year [program] but I had to do it very part-time because I was trying to raise a son and work and do all that.”
Schaumburg recalled another setback during that time.
“I actually had a professor tell me that I should probably settle with just getting a bachelor’s because I would be able to handle grad school with a newborn as a single mother,” she said.
Four years later, she had her graduate degree—and a four-year-old.
“I got to show him that, yes, I could handle it and I did,” said Schaumburg. “And now you know, I have my own career and my own practice.”
Schaumburg has speech therapy resources available through Panda Speech.
Now, has a family who helps her volunteer.
“I’m always, you know, driving them places, and then I have my extended family. But I kind of pull in my family to help me,” she said. My boys and my husband started volunteering with me on my Special Olympics team, which has been the best thing ever. So I’m not away from them as much as I used to be.”
Her friend and nominator, Elizabeth West, said Schaumburg inspired her to reach her own goals.
“I had twins at 17 years old, and I got my LVN and I felt that that was it for me,” said West. “Just to watch her and overcome all her struggles and everything that, I’m now getting my BSN, my RN. I opened a little business myself on the side with a cosmetology license. So she really is an inspiration to reach for your goals, no matter like your circumstances.”
Schaumburg’s message to others following their dreams: “Don’t let anybody tell you you can’t be what you want to be.” | 2022-03-23T04:18:41Z | www.myhighplains.com | Remarkable Women: Amanda Schaumburg helps kids find their voices | KAMR - MyHighPlains.com | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/remarkable-women-amanda-schaumburg-helps-kids-find-their-voices/ | https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/remarkable-women-amanda-schaumburg-helps-kids-find-their-voices/ |
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