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McDowell County water project reaches half way point
NORTHFORK, W.Va. (WVVA) - The Elkhorn Water Project has been in the works since 2015. With phase one including the installation of a 400 thousand gallon water storage tank. It also features a state of the art water treatment plant. The heavy lifting of phase two of this project includes laying nearly 70 thousand feet of water lines from Upland to Keystone.
“It addressed a lot of health issues also because we had the water in keystone that the plant was so deteriorated that they were not even able to chlorinate. So the residents were receiving water that wasn’t even treated. The health department issued an order on that, probably ten years ago. So having safe, reliable water now that’s treated, that’s sampled. That’s very important to the health and growth of the county,” said Mavis Brewster the General Manager for the McDowell County PSD.
The new water lines not only provide clean water to area residents, it also provides that same water to local businesses. To help them tap into tourism dollars that flow from the Hatfield and McCoy trail system.
“Starting on Thursday to Sunday, the population of the county almost doubles. We passed like forty four wheelers coming in, just a while ago. So it’s really important. Anything we can do to get some economy back in McDowell County, it’s really important,” said President of the McDowell County Commission, Cecil Patterson.
The county now seeks funding for phases three and four of the project. Senator Shelley Moore Capito explains how she’s helping McDowell county navigate through the available funding streams to fully complete the project.
“There’s a lot of funding out there. There’s the bipartisan infrastructure package that has a lot of water funding but there’s also rural development through the USDA, the state. So you kind of have to pick from different buckets of water to get these projects done and that’s what we’re doing again. We’re working with them already,” said Capito.
The McDowell PSD reports they’ve already started the application process for funding for the next two phases of the water projects.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/21/mcdowell-county-water-project-reaches-half-way-point/
| 2022-04-21T22:47:11Z
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‘My life is incredible’: 76-year-old man is one of the last people with an iron lung
(CNN) – A Texas man who has lived 70 years in an iron lung says he has lived a full and exciting life because he “never gave up.”
The machine was common during the polio epidemic, and Paul Alexander is one of the last people to be in one.
The iron lung works to change the air pressure and stimulate breathing. It has been the home of 76-year-old Alexander, keeping him alive for 70 years.
In 1952, Alexander contracted polio at 6 years old and became paralyzed from the neck down.
Alexander said a therapist promised him a dog if he could breathe on his own for three minutes.
“I developed a way to get air and breathing,” Alexander said. “I worked on it for a year before I could reach that three minutes, but I reached it.”
Eventually, Alexander would be able to gulp or take in air for hours at a time, allowing him to leave the confines of the iron lung during the day and accomplish more than anyone thought was possible for him.
He went on to go to college, law school and had a 30-year-long career as a courtroom attorney.
Alexander wrote an autobiography, and is now working on a second book.
“But I’ve got some big dreams,” he said. “I am not going to accept from anybody their limitations on my life. Not gonna do it. My life is incredible.”
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/21/my-life-is-incredible-76-year-old-man-is-one-last-people-with-an-iron-lung/
| 2022-04-21T22:47:19Z
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Police officers surprise shoppers with cash in California
OCEANSIDE, Calif. (KFMB) – If you’re interacting with a police officer, usually it’s because you’ve been in an accident, are a victim of a crime, or you’re getting a ticket.
But in one California city, officers are changing that by giving away thousands of dollars.
Officers T.J. Dunn and Charles Dabney surprised shoppers Wednesday at a Walmart store located in the area where they regularly patrol.
“So, how much money do you think you’re going to spend today?” Dunn asked Sandy Hughes as she was shopping.
“More than I want to!” Hughes said.
Hughes is in the middle of moving because her rent just went up again, but her quick trip to the grocery store ended up making her smile.
“I’m going to give you $100 in cash,” Dunn told her before handing her the money. “It’s called an act of kindness.”
Technically, it’s called the Random Acts of Kindness Project, which was made possible by an Oceanside resident who donated $20,000 to the Oceanside Police Department to randomly give out to residents throughout the year to help make ends meet.
The project is giving officers the opportunity to meet people in a more relaxed and friendly environment than usual.
“Most of the time when people call the police, it’s not under the greatest circumstances,” said Jennifer Atenza, the department’s public information officer. “It’s when something bad has happened, there’s an emergency, there’s trauma involved. So, this affords us the opportunity to make connections under positive circumstances.”
Last month, Oceanside officers visited gas stations along their regular beat to help people with spiking gas prices.
Officers said soon they will randomly stop by other grocery stores across the city to give away cash.
Copyright 2022 KFMB via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/21/police-officers-surprise-shoppers-with-cash-california/
| 2022-04-21T22:47:25Z
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Veterans react to news of potential Beckley VAMC closure
BECKLEY, W.Va. (WVVA) - In May, the Veteran’s Administration’s Asset and Infrastructure Review Commission (AIR) released a report, recommending that the Biden Administration close the Beckley VA Medical Center.
It has been just over a month since the report was released. While this hasn’t been enough time for a formal decision to be made, it has certainly been enough to raise concern from local veterans and even state leaders.
On Monday, April 18, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) held a virtual conference where he listened to West Virginian Veterans. The session focused on the AIR Commission’s proposals for every VA Hospital in the State.
“The AIR Commission is supposed to modernize the VA,” Manchin said during the meeting. “So far, what we’ve been able to find is just unfairly targeted rural areas because of population. Not because of the amount of service or the amount of concentration of service but just population.”
In Beckley, the Commission anticipates a 39 percent drop in inpatient medical and surgical patients by the year 2029.
AIR’s solution?
Construct a new facility that can provide nonsurgical outpatient care, while directing in-patient- and some surgical outpatient- services to other providers. This would eliminate all in-house medical, emergency and surgical care.
One veteran shared his concern about the travel distances if the recommendation on the table becomes a reality.
“A lot of veterans use that facility,” said Joseph McGhee, a retired Navy veteran. “So, the question is, what would happen to these guys? Are we going to treat these guys like this the rest of what little life they have left?”
AIR’s report also suggests increasing home-based care and broadband capabilities to support telehealth appointments.
But with this comes the fear of losing the patient-to-provider relationship.
Ellis Vest, Sixth District Commander for the Department of West Virginia and Adjunctant of American Legion Post 32 in Beckley, shared his opinion.
“I have formed good doctor-patient relations with my providers, and I don’t want to see them go, nor do I want to go somewhere else. I’m opposed to any cuts in services to veterans across the board...Veterans deserve the best medical treatment and care that the country can provide.”
As this recommendation goes through a year-long process on its way to President Biden, Vest says he will be voicing his concerns to local leaders and urging his fellow veterans to do the same.
“We just have to wait and see how it goes, but it’s never too early to voice your opinion and your concerns to your elected officials,” he said.
WVVA reached out to the Beckley VA Hospital about these concerns. The hospital responded with the following statement:
“As was required by law under the VA MISSION Act of 2018 to conduct a series of market assessments to examine future demand for health care services among the veteran population, which is projected to change in size and location over the next decade. As part of that process, VA is due to submit findings and recommendations to an independent Commission called the Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission, which would review and evaluate the findings and make its own recommendations to the President in early 2023.
Veterans will always be at the center of what we do. The AIR Commission is an opportunity to redesign VA health care to maximize access and outcomes for current and future generations of Veterans. It is important to note that any recommendations to the upcoming AIR Commission are just that—recommendations. Nothing is changing now for Veteran access to care or VA employees. Any potential changes to VA’s health care infrastructure may be several years away and are dependent on Commission, Presidential, and Congressional decisions, as well as robust stakeholder engagement and planning. In the long run, AIR recommendations could impact VHA facilities and staff, but it’s too early to know exactly what or where those impacts might be. VA will remain in all of our health care markets.”
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/21/veterans-react-news-potential-beckley-vamc-closure/
| 2022-04-21T22:47:32Z
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WVSP find human remains after responding to vehicle fire
CLAY COUNTY, W.Va. (WVVA) - Early Wednesday evening, Senior Trooper Wiseman and Corporal Raynor responded to a vehicle fire on Widen Ridge Road in Clay County.
Upon arrival, troopers found what they believed to be human remains located inside the vehicle.
Senior Trooper Wiseman was advised by Clay County 911, the vehicle belonged to Darlene Jackson, 65, of Widen, W.Va.
Troopers identified Jackson’s son, Johnny Dale Rogers II, 34, of Widen, W.Va. as a suspect.
Troopers confirmed that Rogers had spoken to family members and told them that his mother was missing.
At this time, the remains from the vehicle are believed to be those of Darlene Jackson.
Rogers has been charged with First Degree Murder in connection with the death of his mother, Darlene Jackson.
The recovered remains were transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy and examination.
This investigation remains active and ongoing.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/21/wvsp-find-human-remains-after-responding-vehicle-fire/
| 2022-04-21T22:47:38Z
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A Town for Boys AND Girls
Over a full century of service, Boys Town has imprinted itself on the national consciousness in almost Normal Rockwell-like vignettes, of youthful males brought in from the cold for hot soup in front of a roaring fireplace.
For Boys Town Louisiana, reality is a very different picture – and one that includes plenty of girls and families as well.
“We take a holistic approach in that we serve the entire family,” explained Rashain Carriere Williams, executive director of Boys Town Louisiana. “We look at the entire home situation and assess the entire family. We find out what their stresses are, and develop care programs and goals with the family.”
Following its Continuum of Care model, Boys Town’s programs begin with Early Head Start childhood education, and also include parenting programs and other parental support.
“We have an evidence-based parenting curriculum, and we teach it in a classroom format,” Williams elaborated. “We cover topics like communication, having a routine, having rules and structure in the home.”
One key aspect is instructing parents on how to correct their children’s behavior effectively. “We teach appropriate ways to set consequences and follow through,” she said. “And we also teach how to praise youth. We give parents a few more tools for their tool belts.”
Additional family support comes in the form of helping the adults get access to housing, health care, and jobs and job training. Many of Boys Town’s client families include parents working gig jobs or in the hospitality industry, sectors that were vulnerable before the pandemic and continue to struggle.
Boys Town may be best known for its group houses for young people. The local organization operates three such homes, two for boys and one for girls. Up to six youths, ranging in age from 12 to 17, live in each facility. They come from family situations that are simply no longer viable for them to live in.
“This is a difficult age to place children in foster care,” noted Williams. “Many of them have gone from home to home, and do not have any supportive relatives who can take care of them. They have experienced trauma, abuse and neglect.”
The Boys Town homes emphasize a family environment, with normal home features like kitchens and living rooms. Each home is managed by live-in married couples who have been trained specifically for the responsibility. The young residents go to regular schools and engage in extra-curricular activities just like any other children their age.
However, this is augmented by therapy and specialized training. “A lot of the kids have learned anti-social ways to get their needs met,” Williams related, “so we teach social skills like having respectful conversations, disagreeing appropriately, accepting consequences. We ultimately want to nurture and develop successful adults.”
Williams added that in some ways, working with the residents at the facilities is easier than serving youth who remain with their own families. “The at-home population is more susceptible to peer influences, to getting in trouble in school.”
Despite this reality, Boys Town prefers to have the children living with parents or other family members. When a young person is able to return to such a setting, the organization continues to stay engaged and provide services. Even when participants age out of the programs, communications remain open, and the agency works to link them to opportunities such as workforce development training.
“We can meet the child wherever they are,” Williams stated firmly.
Much of Boys Town’s clientele comes from contracts with the State of Louisiana, via the juvenile justice and foster care systems. This is augmented by local parish courts and other referrals. Williams reported that they typically serve about 200 children at any given time, and about 600 over the course of a year.
While Boys Town is clearly a direct-service agency, with a primary focus on what Williams described as “kids in crisis,” she also sees a much larger objective for the organization. “Our mission,” she proclaimed, “is to change the way America cares for our children and our families.”
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/a-town-for-boys-and-girls/
| 2022-04-21T23:17:29Z
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BGR Hosts Virtual Discussion on Public Safety
NEW ORLEANS — On Friday, April 22, the Bureau of Governmental Research will host a virtual “breakfast briefing” on the topic of public safety. Scheduled from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., the event titled “Beyond Law Enforcement: Exploring Community-Based Strategies to Make New Orleans Safer” will examine community investments and initiatives that can complement effective police work, with insights from Dr. Jeffrey Butts, a professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice at the City University of New York; Karen Evans, executive director of the New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board; and James Logan, who has worked in community development and social justice in a variety of ways and who served as immediate past president of 100 Black Men of Metro New Orleans. BGR board member Charles West, the architect of NOLA For Life, will moderate.
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/bgr-hosts-virtual-discussion-on-public-safety/
| 2022-04-21T23:17:35Z
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The Kaneohe Sandbar is one of Hawaii’s natural wonders and the best way to get there is with Kaneohe Bay Ocean Sports!
Kaneohe Bay Ocean Sports has been in business since the mid-1980's. "We are a locally owned and family operated tour company,” family member Marcus Yip shared. Their mission is to “treat every guest that comes on our boat as part of our family.”
They have two tours day including a “morning tour from 9:30am-12:30pm and a 12:30pm-4:00pm.” On the ride over you can enjoy lunch, live Hawaiian music, and take a look at the gorgeous views. Once you get to the sandbar, that’s when the ocean sports begin! “We provide snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboards...water volleyball, and then we also have options for banana boats and bumper tubes as well.” They have activities for all ages and if you are looking to just relax, you can lounge on the floating dock.
“When guests... visitors come out here, even the locals, we feel it is our kuleana to remind them and to educate them to take care of all the endangered marine life out here...and just to take care of this place.” Marcus emphasized that “this is our home and we want to leave it like this for the next generations to come.” Through effort from everyone and focusing on educating guests, they are able to create a fun, yet sustainable way for ocean tourism.
Kaneohe Bay Ocean Sports has received wonderful support from visitors as well as the local community. “With the continuous support from the local community, from all around the island, from my family, we’d like to say a big mahalo to them... especially coming out of the pandemic, after a year and half...we wouldn’t be here without them.”
As Miss Hawaii 2019 & 2020, Nikki was a representative for the Aloha State and was highly involved with the community as she promoted the importance of service. Nikki is the host of KITV's entertainment and culture platform, ISLAND LIFE.
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https://www.kitv.com/island-life/family/adventure-to-one-of-hawaii-s-natural-wonders-with-kaneohe-bay-ocean-sports/article_ef610df2-c1ae-11ec-8ea8-9f7cc773f38e.html
| 2022-04-21T23:17:38Z
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Brett Fenasci Rejoins Kean Miller’s New Orleans Office
NEW ORLEANS — Kean Miller announced that Brett P. Fenasci is returning as a partner in its New Orleans office, practicing with the offshore energy and marine litigation group. Fenasci has extensive litigation and trial experience in matters involving admiralty and maritime law, Jones Act, energy law, personal injury, vessel collisions, allisions, marine insurance and commercial disputes. He earned his B.A., magna cum laude, from the University of Georgia and his J.D., magna cum laude, from the Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. He serves as an adjunct professor at Loyola. He serves on the board of directors of Boys Hope Girls Hope of New Orleans.
Consistently named to the National Law Journal’s NLJ 500 and the Law 360 Top 400 lists, Kean Miller is Mansfield 4.0 certified, which reflects a commitment to diversity in the legal profession. The firm employs more than 170 attorneys at offices in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Houston, the Woodlands, Lafayette, Shreveport and Lake Charles.
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/brett-fenasci-rejoins-kean-millers-new-orleans-office/
| 2022-04-21T23:17:41Z
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/big-island-police-seek-missing-23-year-old-joshua-waterman-of-kona/article_6dd6cb30-c1b5-11ec-8d73-efda13249ef6.html
| 2022-04-21T23:17:44Z
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City of New Orleans Communications Director to Join Ehrhardt Group
NEW ORLEANS – The Ehrhardt Group, one of the city’s most well-known public relations firms, announced that Beau Tidwell will join its ranks as senior counselor next month. Tidwell will provide strategic guidance to the firm’s leadership team and staff in the areas of client development, firm operations and public affairs.
“As TEG continues to expand our capabilities to serve clients throughout the Gulf South, we have been fortunate to attract the area’s top talent,” said company President Marc Ehrhardt in a press release. “With the addition of Beau, a PR pro since his days with the NOPD and the Mayor’s office, I am confident that we will continue to offer those that we serve the best counsel and strategies to develop stories that compel, inspire and educate our clients’ most important audiences, always seeking the best path for a client to achieve their goals.”
Tidwell joins TEG at a time of dynamic growth for the firm and is excited to offer his experience and guidance to clients in a variety of industries.
“I am deeply honored to join the team at The Ehrhardt Group. Since their founding, they have become the gold standard for what we do, and I am grateful for the opportunity to help expand and to build on that legacy,” said Tidwell.
Born and raised in Nashville, Tidwell began working at The New York Times in late 2003 and spent the next nine years in the heart of the newsroom in various roles, eventually taking over Page One. He moved to New Orleans when he was recruited by The Times-Picayune/NOLA.com as part of their digital operations team to help manage the transition of their legendary newsroom into the post-print era.
In 2015, he made the jump to political communications and was soon brought on to run the public information office for the New Orleans Police Department under Chief Michael Harrison. Tidwell served as communications director for the police department during a particularly difficult era and led national and global messaging responses during the contentious Confederate monument removal process.
In 2018, Tidwell was tapped by Mayor LaToya Cantrell to be the director of communications for the City of New Orleans. In that capacity, he has overseen messaging and media responses to the Hard Rock Hotel crisis, cyber-attacks, multiple hurricane and storm events, and the global pandemic.
Tidwell has also served as chairman of the Orleans Parish Communications District board, the region’s 911/311 service since 2018. He lives in the Carrollton neighborhood with his wife, Braithe Tidwell, who was recently named by Wine Spectator as a Grand Award winner for her work curating Brennan’s Restaurant’s wine program.
For more information, visit www.tegpr.com.
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/city-of-new-orleans-communications-director-to-join-ehrhardt-group/
| 2022-04-21T23:17:47Z
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Migrants and asylum seekers march to protest against Title 42 policy heading to the Mexican side of the San Ysidro Crossing port in Tijuana, Baja California state, Mexico, on March 21, 2022. - Title 42 is a policy from Donald Trump's administration that stopped most arrivals at the southern border on the grounds that migrants could spread Covid-19. (Photo by Guillermo Arias / AFP) (Photo by GUILLERMO ARIAS/AFP via Getty Images)
(CNN) -- More than 20 states on Thursday asked a federal judge in Louisiana to immediately block the Biden administration from ending a public health authority, known as Title 42.
The Biden administration is on track to end Title 42 -- which allows border authorities to turn away migrants at the US southern border -- on May 23. The decision, made by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sparked tension within the Democratic Party amid concerns of a migrant surge.
Earlier this month, Arizona, Louisiana and Missouri filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration's decision to end Title 42. Later, more than a dozen states, mostly GOP-led, joined the lawsuit.
In a Thursday filing, the states asked the court to intervene, arguing that the administration had begun to process migrants under immigration law instead of through the public health authority and that the states are likely to prevail on the merits of their claims.
A judge asked for the Biden administration to respond by 1 p.m. ET Friday.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told CNN on Tuesday that his department is actively preparing for a potential increase in migrants next month when the Trump-era pandemic restriction on the US-Mexico border lifts.
RELATED: Tensions run high as Biden administration gets earful from some panicked lawmakers over Title 42
Asked about the pushback from both parties on the plans to end Title 42, Mayorkas told CNN: "I say, number one, that we have plans. We are executing on those plans."
"I think we have to be very mindful of the fact that we are addressing enemies, and those enemies are the cartels and the smugglers, and I will not provide our plans to them. We are going to proceed with our execution, carefully, methodically, in anticipating different scenarios," he added.
Many Democrats on Capitol Hill fear rescinding the rule in May is not enough time for the administration to establish an adequate plan to handle the uptick in migrant crossings that's expected to come with it.
US Customs and Border Protection had 221,303 encounters at the US-Mexico border in March, which marked yet another jump in arrests along the southern border. CBP has already apprehended more than 1 million people this fiscal year, which began on October 1. That includes some repeat crossers.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/more-than-20-states-ask-judge-to-immediately-block-biden-from-ending-title-42/article_4ec26284-c1b7-11ec-9dd2-f3d29cea0f66.html
| 2022-04-21T23:17:51Z
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GNO Inc., Bank of America Release 3rd Greater New Orleans Jobs Report
NEW ORLEANS — Greater New Orleans Inc. and Bank of America have released the 2021 Greater New Orleans Jobs Report examing the region’s job market, industry trends and workforce metrics. This is the latest installment in a series of annual studies that provide an analysis of the jobs that will drive the region’s economy over the next decade.
“Now more than ever, it is imperative that training programs in our region are aligned with demand,” said Michael Hecht, president and CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc. in a press release. “As our economy continues to evolve, we must remain nimble to ensure that our region’s population has access to high-quality training programs in order to facilitate economic growth in an equitable manner.”
The latest report focuses on workforce development and collaboration with regional educators.
“Workforce development is a priority for Bank of America and our clients,” said Jonathan Matessino, senior vice president of global commercial banking at Bank of America, which has invested in the jobs report for the last three years. “Along with GNO Inc., we are working to address workforce development and training needs that will help the region attract, retain and expand businesses, create well-paying jobs, and grow revenues.”
Hecht said a primary goal of this report is to encourage partnerships and collaboration between regional stakeholders.
Findings include:
- In greater New Orleans, 76% of all jobs require some form of education, training or experience beyond a high school diploma
- Nearly a quarter of the of the civilian labor force in the United States possess some sort of certification or license
- In 2020, there were over 15,200 higher education completions in greater New Orleans, with bachelor’s degrees accounting for 45% of all completions
- There are more than 89,000 STEM jobs in greater New Orleans
These findings are intended to help inform government, education, economic development, workforce development and private philanthropy’s programs and policy opportunities that meet industry demand. Furthermore, GNO Inc. will incorporate many recommendations into its programs.
Read the full report here.
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/gno-inc-bank-of-america-release-3rd-greater-new-orleans-jobs-report/
| 2022-04-21T23:17:53Z
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Power outage reported over parts of Wheeler Army Airfield in Wahiawa Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Digital Content Producer Author facebook Author instagram Author email Apr 21, 2022 Apr 21, 2022 Updated 47 min ago 0 Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save WAHIAWA, Hawaii (KITV4) -- Parts of Wheeler Army Airfield on Oahu are without power. No word yet on exactly how many customers are affected.Electricity's been down since at least 8 a.m. Thursday morning and Hawaiian Electric (HECO) estimates crews will restore power around 3 p.m.The US Army reports the Leilehua Golf Course is also without power therefore the visitor control center is closed.Few other details are known at this time.This is a developing story. Check back with KITV4 for more information. FB: US Army Garrison Hawaii Local ICYMI: 4 stories you need to know about | April 20, 2022 By: Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Do you have a story idea? Email news tips to news@kitv.com Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save Tags Electricity Control Center Commerce Linguistics Estimate Us Army Golf Course Airfield Power Outage Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Digital Content Producer Author facebook Author instagram Author email Follow Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today More From KITV 4 Island News Crime & Courts Cyber criminals thwarted from disrupting Oahu telecommunications Updated Apr 13, 2022 Local Big Island police investigating a possible drowning at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor Feb 24, 2022 Local Body of missing diver recovered near Kaupo Beach in Waimanalo Updated Nov 16, 2021 Local FBI assisting in hostage situation at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas Updated Jan 15, 2022 Local Shark Warning signs posted at Makaha Beach after sighting of 7-foot reef shark Updated Nov 18, 2021 Local Honolulu a top city for delivery and truck driver salaries, according to national data Updated Mar 30, 2022 Recommended for you
Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Digital Content Producer Author facebook Author instagram Author email Follow Xiomara Yamileth Guevara Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today
Local Big Island police investigating a possible drowning at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor Feb 24, 2022
Local FBI assisting in hostage situation at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas Updated Jan 15, 2022
Local Shark Warning signs posted at Makaha Beach after sighting of 7-foot reef shark Updated Nov 18, 2021
Local Honolulu a top city for delivery and truck driver salaries, according to national data Updated Mar 30, 2022
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/power-outage-reported-over-parts-of-wheeler-army-airfield-in-wahiawa/article_8c0b614c-c1bf-11ec-b263-67044146095c.html
| 2022-04-21T23:17:57Z
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HRI Communities to Develop New Community in Downtown Lake Charles
LAKE CHARLES, La. – From HRI Communities:
The City of Lake Charles and HRI Communities announced plans for development of a mixed-income, multifamily community to be known as the Woodring Apartments. Mayor Nic Hunter, HRI Properties President and CEO Tom Leonhard, and Councilman Ronnie Harvey, Jr. were on hand for remarks at the onsite announcement. Bound by Bilbo, Mill, Hodges, and Division Streets in the heart of downtown Lake Charles, the overall development will be segmented into two phases, the first of which was awarded 9 percent Low Income Housing Tax Credits by the Louisiana Housing Corporation on April 13. Construction is expected to begin this winter.
“Downtown Lake Charles plays a unique role in the economic and cultural fabric of our community, offering us a more diverse and inviting City. People like walkability, so residential options are critical for growth and sustainability in any downtown district,” said Hunter. “Downtown Lake Charles has seen a resurgence in recent years. The addition of Woodring Apartments will compliment other recent residential developments and add to what is becoming an incredible area for commercial, cultural, and civic activity. This project will bring additional attainable housing options to the heart of Lake Charles, and we will be thrilled to welcome residents to Woodring Apartments.”
“Suffering through the consecutive landfalls of major Hurricanes Laura and Delta, thousands of Lake Charles residents remain displaced from their homes due to devastating damage across the area,” said Leonhard. “HRIC recognizes that there is an immediate need for high-quality, resilient, and affordable housing options in Lake Charles and we plan to expeditiously break ground on this tremendous new development later this year.”
The first phase of the Woodring Apartments will include a 58-unit multifamily building and a 12-unit townhouse building for 70 total apartments. The unit mix will include 49 affordable workforce housing units and 21 market-rate units. Amenities will include off-street parking, a community center, fitness center, grilling and picnic area, community garden, and pocket park on the corner of Division and Hodges Streets. The development will offer ample green space designed to feature and protect many of the area’s existing oak trees.
With consideration for the disaster risk profile of multifamily housing in southern Louisiana, the design will reflect best practices in sustainability as directed by the Enterprise Green Communities criteria with emphasis on disaster resiliency and hardened building techniques under the Institute for Business and Home Safety’s FORTIFIED Gold resiliency objectives. These initiatives aim to mitigate both nuisance and major damages resulting from hurricane force winds and flooding which often displace residents in the worst of post-storm circumstances.
“Every family deserves the comfort and confidence afforded to them by a strong home, especially those living in an area that has been so frequently battered by hurricanes. Utilizing the FORTIFIED building standard in our construction design ensures that these families will have the safest home possible and an unobstructed path to recovery in the unfortunate event of severe weather impacts,” said HRI Communities President Josh Collen.
“We are excited to see HRI Properties put decades of IBHS research into action,” said Fred Malik, Managing Director of FORTIFIED. “By using the FORTIFIED Multifamily standard, they are greatly reducing the risk of storm damage and helping to ensure their residents will have a home to come back to after the next storm.”
“By building to the Enterprise Green Communities standard, HRI Communities will be providing housing that is healthy, efficient, and environmentally-responsible,” said Michelle Whetten, Vice President – Gulf Coast, Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. “Residents will have lower utility bills, a healthier living environment, and most importantly, housing that will be able to withstand impacts of future storms, reducing the potential for displacement of families who have already experienced so much instability in this region.”
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/hri-communities-to-develop-new-apartment-community-in-downtown-lake-charles/
| 2022-04-21T23:18:00Z
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NOLA MusicTech 2022 Releases Schedule and Speakers
NEW ORLEANS — NOLA MusicTech Conference 2022 has released the schedule and speakers for its first in-person event on April 27 at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center. The conference is targeting entrepreneurs, investors, musicians, journalists, developers, service providers and organizations who work with them “at the convergence of music culture and commerce.” Thought leaders in the music, business and technology ecosystem will shine a light on the emerging trends that are changing the way we experience, share, create, and monetize music.
Intentionally nestled between French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest, the conference aims to draw music and technology businesses to New Orleans, as well as attract money and opportunities to Louisiana musicians. It is NOLA MusicTech’s mission to showcase New Orleans music and culture as a fertile ground for tech innovation.
“After moving to virtual in 2020 for our inaugural event, we are thrilled to be in person this year with such an incredible group of speakers,” said Melissa O’Brien, producer of NOLA MusicTech. “There’s no better place than the vibrant New Orleans scene to showcase what is happening at the intersection of music and tech. We hope to bring the same energy and excitement that our predecessor, SF MusicTech, brought to northern California.”
Topics from more than 20 sessions include NFTs for Musicians, Music in the Metaverse, Immersive Sound, TikTok Strategies, Innovative Artist Funding, Innovations in Music Creation, the DAO/Web3 Music Revolution and Livestreaming in 2022. Keynote speakers are Panos A. Panay, co-president and CRO of the Recording Academy, and Gebre Waddell, CEO of Sound Credit.
Other featured speakers include:
- Michael Romanowski, Owner, Coast Mastering
- Jessica Powell, Co-founder and CEO, audioshake.io
- Darryl Ballantyne, CEO, LyricFind
- DAWN, Artist
- Tracey Bowen, Founder, H.E.R. DAO
- Bryan Calhoun, Digital Strategy and Business Development, Maverick/The Blueprint Group
- Vickie Nauman, Founder & CEO, CrossBorderWorks
- Ash Stahl, CEO, Flighthouse
The event will feature new launches and demos from Vampr, hyprAUDIO and LyricFind as well as several networking opportunities. The festivities culminate in a crawfish boil closing party.
The 2022 conference is sponsored by Vampr, LyricFind, Louisiana Entertainment, NOLAvate Black, SongVest, hyprAUDIO, Sound Royalties, Greater New Orleans Inc., the Recording Academy, the Recording Academy Producers & Engineers Wing, Fusicology and OffBeat Magazine.
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/nola-musictech-2022-releases-schedule-and-speakers/
| 2022-04-21T23:18:06Z
|
...HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM EARLY SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH
SATURDAY AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...West winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph
possible.
* WHERE...North Snowy Range Foothills, South Laramie Range,
South Laramie Range Foothills and Central Laramie County.
* WHEN...From early Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon.
* IMPACTS...Mainly to transportation. Strong cross winds will be
hazardous to light weight and high profile vehicles, including
campers and tractor trailers.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A High Wind Watch means a hazardous high wind event is possible.
Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or
more can lead to property damage.
&&
Weather Alert
...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT FRIDAY FOR
STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 430, 431,
433, 435, 436, AND 437...
...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT
FRIDAY FOR STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES
430, 431, 433, 435, 436, AND 437...
* AFFECTED AREA...Fire weather zones 430, 431, 433, 435, 436 AND
437.
* WIND...South to southwest 25 to 35 mph sustained with gusts of
45 to 55 mph.
* HUMIDITY...Minimum 8 to 15 percent.
* IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is highly discouraged.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. The combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.
&&
Daniel Oates speaks during a news conference along with Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle on May 14, 2015. AP
DENVER – The police chief who led police in the Denver suburb of Aurora when a gunman killed 12 people in a movie theater a decade ago is returning to temporarily lead the embattled department following the firing of its last chief.
Daniel J. Oates, who served as police chief in Aurora from 2005 to 2014 before retiring as police chief in Miami Beach, Florida, will serve as interim chief and help in the selection of the next police chief, the city announced Wednesday.
City manager Jim Twombly said he hired Oates “because he has established trust within our community and many of our officers.”
Earlier this month Twombly fired Police Chief Vanessa Wilson, who was hired in 2020 as Colorado’s third-largest city faced scrutiny over the death of Elijah McClain, a case that received widespread attention in the wake of protests of racial injustice and police brutality. McClain died after being stopped by police, put in a chokehold and injected with the powerful sedative ketamine in 2019. Three police officers and two paramedics were indicted in McClain’s death last year.
Wilson acted quickly to fire officers for misconduct, including those who took and shared photos appearing to mock McClain’s death. Earlier this year, she also fired the president of one of police department’s two police unions for an email he sent to over 200 department employees criticizing diversity provisions the city had agreed to under a consent decree with the state attorney general’s office and disparaging the city’s residents.
Twombly praised Wilson’s community outreach. He said he fired her because of concerns about her leadership and management of the department, without getting into specifics.
Wilson disputed Twombly’s assessment and alleged she was forced out for political reasons. Her lawyers have said the new conservative majority on the city council did not support Wilson’s efforts to enact reforms required by the consent decree following an investigation by the state attorney general’s office prompted by McClain’s death.
Oates, who also has served as police chief in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and a deputy chief in the New York Police Department, said getting officers to support the changes in the agreement will be among his highest priorities.
“It is the only way to move forward as a department,” he said.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/from_the_wire/aurora-colo-hires-ex-chief-from-theater-shooting-to-lead-police/article_7c1ca43c-ae80-57c0-8757-300725d430e9.html
| 2022-04-21T23:43:35Z
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GILLETTE – The officers involved in the shooting that killed a Gillette man this January have been identified and cleared of criminal charges.
Park County Attorney Bryan A. Skoric found Gillette Police Department officer Patrick Totzke and Lt. Jason Marcus’ use of force justified in the death of 22-year-old Ismael Trinidad Montes earlier this year.
The incident began when Totzke and Marcus responded to the 500 block of Church Avenue around 7 a.m. Jan. 16 when homeowners reported a man was in their home who had made violent threats and refused to leave.
The police department released an edited 5-minute body camera video from the incident showing officers entering the home and finding Montes inside of the trailer with a machete.
“Ismael, put that down,” one of the officers is heard saying in the video when they first make contact. “Put that down right now, Ismael.”
After drawing a hand gun, the officer whose body camera footage was used in the video swapped it for a pepper ball gun while the other held a Taser and repeatedly asked Montes to drop the weapon.
According to the Park County Attorney’s Office review, Totzke entered the home first and held the pepper ball gun. In that initial encounter, officers shot pepper balls and deployed the Taser, at which point Montes walked further into the trailer.
Officers followed him inside and down a hallway, where Montes tried opening what appeared to be a locked door before entering and closing himself in a bathroom. Montes opened the door and popped out of the doorway with the machete for a moment, at which point officers fired more pepper balls. He went back into the bathroom.
Eventually, Montes ran out of the bathroom and charged toward officers.
The body camera footage showed Montes absorb pepper balls and push through a Taser probe while moving toward officers with the machete raised. Montes swung the machete twice, appearing to make contact with Marcus while Totzke pulled out his gun and fired two shots, hitting Montes.
Montes dropped the machete, went to retrieve it and advanced toward officers again, at which point both officers shot at him.
Officers performed life-saving measure and medical rescue help was called. He was pronounced dead at the scene. One of the officers was treated for minor injuries, according to the statement.
Marcus was hit at least twice by Montes, including one strike to the head that caused bleeding and another to the groin, which only left a mark on his uniform, according to the attorney’s review.
The Park County District Attorney’s Office received the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation report on the incident on Feb. 9 and after its review, deemed the shooting justified and that no criminal charges were warranted against the officers.
“Any sudden loss of life is a tragedy for our community. Sadly, this is a tragic example of the very serious dangers of illegal drug use,” said Police Chief Chuck Deaton in a press release. “We are grateful that our officers were not seriously injured. We are thankful for the dedicated men and women who choose to put their lives on the line every day for the safety of our community.”
A toxicology report on Montes found “methamphetamine, amphetamine, THC and metabolites of cocaine,” according to the review.
The video edits and redactions were made to “protect the identities of those involved and, to the extent possible, compassionately consider the loved ones of the deceased,” according to text from the video.
“The officers reasonably believed they were in immediate danger and were thereby justified in using deadly force,” the review read. “The body camera footage tells the story.”
The death of Montes was the first of two officer-involved shootings in Gillette this year. The second occurred on March 21, when Daren Lee Henle, 57, died from multiple gunshot wounds to the torso after officers responded to the report of shots fired in the 500 block of East Lincoln Street.
Wyoming DCI is still investigating the incident.
At the time of the second Gillette shooting, there had been four officer-involved shootings in Wyoming this year, according to numbers provided by DCI.
Since then, in early April, a Laramie County Sheriff’s deputy was hospitalized but OK after he shot and killed a man while responding to the report of a Laramie County Community College student who was robbed. DCI has been investigating that incident.
|
https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/officers-cleared-in-gillette-shooting/article_b958fffe-e1d1-5174-89b0-5dc0a3e49bc6.html
| 2022-04-21T23:43:41Z
|
Mike Tyson involved in altercation with airline passenger
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Authorities were investigating Thursday after former heavyweight champ Mike Tyson was recorded on video punching a fellow passenger on board a plane at San Francisco International Airport.
The video shows Tyson leaning over the back of his seat repeatedly striking the unidentified man in the head, drawing blood. The footage was first shared by TMZ, which said it was recorded on a JetBlue plane bound for Florida.
“Unfortunately, Mr. Tyson had an incident on a flight with an aggressive passenger who began harassing him and threw a water bottle at him while he was in his seat,” representatives for Tyson said in an email to The Associated Press.
Prior to the physical altercation, the man is seen on the video standing over Tyson’s seat, waving his arms and talking animatedly while the former boxer sits quietly.
San Francisco police responded Wednesday around 10 p.m. to a “physical altercation” on a plane at the airport’s domestic terminal, officials said.
“Officers arrived and detained two subjects that were believed to be involved in the incident. One subject was treated at the scene for non-life-threatening injuries. That subject provided minimal details of the incident and refused to cooperate further with the police investigation,” police said in a statement Thursday.
Both were released pending further investigation, the statement said.
Another passenger on the flight, Sarah Burchfield, said she saw the man who Tyson punched at an airport bar earlier appearing loud and quarrelsome.
“When I boarded the flight, I thought, ‘Oh, no, that drunk guy is on our flight,’” Burchfield told SFGate.
Burchfield said when she boarded she passed Tyson’s seat in the first class section of the plane.
“The belligerent guy was sitting right behind him and I saw they were interacting,” she said. A short time later, she heard the confrontation in first class, she said.
San Francisco police said the video has been shared with the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, which has jurisdiction over the airport.
Sheriff’s officials said “we are not releasing information on the incident because it is an active investigation.”
JetBlue didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking additional details.
Since Tyson, 55, retired from boxing, he has worked as an actor, podcaster and cannabis entrepreneur. He was in San Francisco for the annual 420 cannabis festival in Golden Gate Park, where he was promoting his cannabis brand Tyson 2.0, SFGate reported.
Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in history in 1987 at age 20. During his career he had 50 wins, 44 of them by knockout.
In the 1990s Tyson served three years in prison after being convicted of rape. He has maintained his innocence in that case.
Tyson was briefly barred from boxing after infamously biting off part of Evander Holyfield’s ear during a fight in 1997.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/21/mike-tyson-punches-airline-passenger/
| 2022-04-22T00:18:07Z
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Property search leads to police finding 5 bodies inside a home, authorities say
DULUTH, Minn. (KBJR/Gray News) - Police in Minnesota are continuing their investigation after officers found several people killed inside a home on Wednesday.
KBJR reports the Duluth Police Department said a welfare call involving a person a nearby agency was searching for led them to a residence near Lake Superior.
Officers arrived at the home in the afternoon and said they were informed that the person of interest was inside the house with access to weapons.
Due to the possibility of the person being armed, police said they performed a methodical search before they entered the home.
Officers then found five bodies once inside the house, including the person they were first alerted about.
Duluth police said everyone in the home was related but they did not immediately release how they all died with their investigation ongoing.
Copyright 2022 KBJR via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/property-search-leads-police-finding-5-bodies-inside-home-authorities-say/
| 2022-04-22T00:18:14Z
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Nona Mae Holmes 1921-2022 Nona Mae Holmes, age 100, of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away peacefully on April 15, 2022 at the Davis Hospice Center with family and friends by her side. Nona was born in Torrington, Wyoming on May 29, 1921 to Earl and Luella Zimmerman. She was one of six children and as a young child moved with her family to her parents' homestead 20 miles north of Cheyenne. Nona went to a country school as a child and graduated from Cheyenne High School in 1939. She went on to get her teachers certificate and soon had jobs teaching in one room schoolhouses. A country social gathering is where Nona met her future husband, Harold William Holmes. In their youth they attended many barn dances, and throughout their marriage their love of dancing never faded. On December 14, 1939, they were married. It was a cold snowy Cheyenne day, but they still enjoyed a carriage ride around Cheyenne after their wedding. It was the beginning of their exciting life together. Nona and Harold were married 71 years. Being married to Harold meant a lifetime full of business ventures. First was a diaper and laundry service. They specialized in laundering servicemen's uniforms from F.E. Warren Air Force Base. About this same time, Harold and Nona started Holmes Auction. It expanded over the years to selling furniture, appliances and carpet. Next was Holmes Boat and Camper Exchange where they built campers and trailers with a decal they put on each one that read "Holmes on Wheels." In 1969, when Nona and Harold were nearly 50 years old, a big change of careers occurred, when they jumped into the fast-food business with John and Bonnie Turner and Jim and Marion Woodson. Taco John's is still in business today, nearly 53 years later. Throughout Nona's life she was an adventurer. She was Harold's trusty map-reader in their airplanes and later in life as his RV navigator. They enjoyed traveling with friends in their RV club around the United States and even to Mexico. They also loved taking trips on their Honda Gold Wing with their Power Riders Club in Arizona. She loved to golf, watch the Colorado Rockies, support the Wyoming Cowboys and Cowgirls, and spend time at the family cabin at Horsetooth Reservoir and their home in Surprise, Arizona. Nona worked alongside Harold in their businesses but their main focus was always their four children, eight grandchildren and 14 great- grandchildren. Times with family always included family game playing and undoubtedly a puzzle. Enjoying moments with them kept her smiling and forever young. In her last few years of life, she enjoyed time with each of her loving caregivers at her home in Cheyenne. Nona was blessed with an abundance of fortitude and an unbridled spirit to live life to its fullest. Nona is survived by her children, Carolyn (Terry) O'Connor of Castle Rock, Colorado, Denny (Chris) Holmes of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Sandy (Tony) Ross of Cheyenne and Kandy (Clayton) Hartman of Fort Collins, Colorado; grandchildren, Kelley (Don) Digby, Brandy (Lindsay) O'Connor, Kathleen Holmes (Jon Whitney), Nicholas (Leah) Holmes, Haley (Payden) Stramel, Cameron Ross, Morgan (Kevin) Whalen and Keaton (Brett) Brockman; 14 great-grandchildren, Trey and Reagan Digby, Jackson and Rylee O'Connor, Wyatt and Wagner Whitney, Payson and Palmer Holmes, McCoy, Charlie and Hayes Stramel, Emmett and Carsen Whalen and Blakely Brockman; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents; five siblings; great-grandson, Sutton Stramel; and her loving husband, Harold. A celebration of Nona's life will be held Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Cheyenne Hills Church, 7505 Lincoln Highway, Cheyenne, Wyoming 82001. Honorary pallbearers will be her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nona Holmes' name to Climb Wyoming, Children's Hospital Colorado or Tunnels to Towers. Services are under the care of Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home and condolences may be offered on-line at www.schradercares.com.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/milestones/obituaries/holmes-nona-mae/article_d4514821-cfa8-5770-a63a-2b116561a8ad.html
| 2022-04-22T01:27:59Z
|
...HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM EARLY SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH
SATURDAY AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...West winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph
possible.
* WHERE...North Snowy Range Foothills, South Laramie Range,
South Laramie Range Foothills and Central Laramie County.
* WHEN...From early Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon.
* IMPACTS...Mainly to transportation. Strong cross winds will be
hazardous to light weight and high profile vehicles, including
campers and tractor trailers.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A High Wind Watch means a hazardous high wind event is possible.
Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or
more can lead to property damage.
&&
Weather Alert
...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT FRIDAY FOR
STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 430, 431,
433, 435, 436, AND 437...
...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT
FRIDAY FOR STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES
430, 431, 433, 435, 436, AND 437...
* AFFECTED AREA...Fire weather zones 430, 431, 433, 435, 436 AND
437.
* WIND...South to southwest 25 to 35 mph sustained with gusts of
45 to 55 mph.
* HUMIDITY...Minimum 8 to 15 percent.
* IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is highly discouraged.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. The combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.
&&
To plant a tree in memory of Mary Roybal as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
1941-2022 Mary Roybal, 80, of Cheyenne died April 18. She was born May 17, 1941 in Torrington, Wyoming. Vigil for the Deceased will be Monday, 7:00 p.m., at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel. Funeral Liturgy will be Tuesday, 1:00 p.m., at St. Mary's Cathedral with the burial of her ashes to follow in Olivet Cemetery. Cremation has taken place.
To plant a tree in memory of Mary Roybal as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
|
https://www.wyomingnews.com/milestones/obituaries/roybal-mary/article_3f344998-892e-5122-9568-54c86b395012.html
| 2022-04-22T01:28:06Z
|
...HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM EARLY SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH
SATURDAY AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...West winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph
possible.
* WHERE...North Snowy Range Foothills, South Laramie Range,
South Laramie Range Foothills and Central Laramie County.
* WHEN...From early Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon.
* IMPACTS...Mainly to transportation. Strong cross winds will be
hazardous to light weight and high profile vehicles, including
campers and tractor trailers.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A High Wind Watch means a hazardous high wind event is possible.
Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or
more can lead to property damage.
&&
Weather Alert
...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT FRIDAY FOR
STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 430, 431,
433, 435, 436, AND 437...
...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT
FRIDAY FOR STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES
430, 431, 433, 435, 436, AND 437...
* AFFECTED AREA...Fire weather zones 430, 431, 433, 435, 436 AND
437.
* WIND...South to southwest 25 to 35 mph sustained with gusts of
45 to 55 mph.
* HUMIDITY...Minimum 8 to 15 percent.
* IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is highly discouraged.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. The combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.
&&
BOISE (AP) – Two Idaho men have been sentenced to jail time and banned from hunting for years after pleading guilty to poaching a grizzly bear near Yellowstone National Park.
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game said in a press release that Rex Baum, 79, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor in connection with the female grizzly’s death last year. He was ordered to serve three days in jail and was banned from hunting for a decade. Baum’s son, Jared Baum of Ashton, was sentenced to 30 days in jail and banned from hunting for life after pleading guilty to a felony in connection with the incident.
Fish and Game officers discovered the grizzly’s carcass on April 9, 2021, after the bear’s radio tracking collar signaled it had died, the Idaho Statesman reported. X-rays of the bear showed she had been shot more than a dozen times. Conservation officers visited the bear’s den, discovering a dead male cub.
The agency contacted the two men after sending a warrant to Google for records of electronic devices that had been in the area around the time of the grizzly’s death.
Idaho grizzlies are federally protected. Last month, Idaho Gov. Brad Little joined Montana and Wyoming governors in petitioning for the bears to be removed from Endangered Species Act protections.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/from_the_wire/2-men-banned-from-hunting-after-yellowstone-grizzly-poached/article_02b4e57e-5d85-50b8-95d3-f02fd30cbe2c.html
| 2022-04-22T01:28:12Z
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LARAMIE - The Laramie City Council eased some zoning restrictions Tuesday night even as a group of residents lobbied against the ordinance, arguing it will change the aesthetic of some neighborhoods.
Titled Ordinance No. 2044, the new regulations will impact building codes in R1, LR and RR single-family residential areas.
About a dozen people gathered outside Laramie City Hall prior to the council meeting, some with signs urging no votes on the third and final reading of 2044. They weren't allowed inside City Hall because the council has been holding its meetings virtually because of the pandemic.
That didn't dissuade them from trying to get their message across the council members.
“We want space, quiet and quality — not big buildings,” said Carol Adams, who lives in the Alta Vista neighborhood.
“Wide-open spaces is what Laramie is known for,” added Bruce Adams.
The new ordinance changes minimum lot size and setback requirements and eliminates a requirement single family homes have a garage. While city officials say the changes are meant to give developers flexibility to develop more affordable living spaces, building a garage or exceeding the minimum lot and setback requirements will still be allowed for those who want to do so.
The plan also allows for accessory dwelling units to be built and rented. These units must have a separate entrance and be smaller than the principal structure on a property. Only one unit per principal structure will be allowed.
The zoning changes have been in the works for months as the City Council continues to work toward its goal of bringing more affordable housing opportunities to Laramie. Last year, the city approved a similar set of changes to multi-family zones.
“Housing affordability has been a tremendous issue in Laramie,” said Planning Division spokesperson Philipp Gabathuler. “All of (the changes) add flexibility to the developer’s tool chest to what they can do. They’re not restrictive, they’re opening up the playbook, if you will.”
Gabathuler said he found newspaper clippings about issues with housing access in Laramie dating back to 1993.
While the city doesn’t have data for the last two years, past studies have shown Laramie second only to Jackson when it comes to a lack of housing affordability in Wyoming. One reason is a gap between home prices and median incomes, said Mayor Paul Weaver.
“The problem is our working young professionals ages 25-44 are very lowly compensated,” said City Manager Janine Jordan.
Council member Fred Schmechel said the lack of housing affordability has made it more difficult for the Laramie Chamber Business Alliance to recruit companies that could bring economic vitality to the area.
Character concerns
During the meeting's public comment period, some residents attending online said the ordinance changes would violate the trust they had in the character of the neighborhoods they choose to live in. Many spent their savings to buy a home where they did.
“It just concerned me that our neighborhood would be changed,” said resident Mundy Aron. “I think the possibility that there would be rentals in a single-family area would mean more parking on the street and just more crowding.
"I don’t see our area as a high-density area, and to me that’s what we’re trying to do with this proposal.”
Those gathered outside City Hall expressed concern they hadn’t heard about the zoning changes enough in advance to provide public comment. Some said they only learned of Ordinance 2044 when they found unsigned fliers in their mailboxes raising concerns about the issue.
“We feel concerned about the way it's been brought up," said resident Nina Rose. "There’s different ideas on how to solve housing issues."
Resident and former City Council member Hugh McGinley said city representatives should strive to go beyond the bare minimum when informing people about potentially significant changes to neighborhoods. He also mentioned that the Zoom format of holding public meetings presents challenges for older people to participate.
After a failed motion to postpone the third reading of the ordinance, it passed 6-3 with "no" votes from council members Pat Gabriel, Brian Shuster and Erin O’Doherty. O’Doherty said that while she personally agrees with the ordinance, she voted against it to be a voice for people in her ward.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/laramie-city-council-oks-zoning-changes-but-not-without-opposition/article_b91bb86c-7788-5096-84ac-038f1e7ea91b.html
| 2022-04-22T01:28:18Z
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CODY — After years of decline, the regional moose population is starting to show a small comeback in numbers, Game and Fish officials reported recently.
G&F Wildlife Biologist Bart Kroger said in the Worland District, which includes the Meeteetse area, there is a higher prevalence for moose than 10 years ago, with about 25% growth over the last decade.
“Things are looking better for moose in Cody and Meeteetse country,” Kroger said, citing an even cow to calf ratio over the last few years and “lots of calves being born.”
Kroger said moose numbers started to decline about 30 years ago and have remained at lower levels ever since.
In many ways moose are a testament to the fragility of environmental pressures.
Kroger attributed the increased presence of wolves – one of moose’s biggest threats — to part of their decline. But he and Tony Mong, wildlife biologist for the Cody region, said there are a variety of other factors that can lead to their demise — like disease. Kroger said moose populations were already declining before the re-introduction of the wolf to the Yellowstone ecosystem.
Park County commissioner Lee Livingston said a “trifecta” of the 1988 Yellowstone fires, wolves and grizzly bears — a species he has lobbied for removal from endangered species protection for many years — has caused some of the most harm to moose.
“People want to blame a bad neighbor (wolves) but an even worse neighbor moved in (grizzly bears),” he said.
He said the 1988 fires were also detrimental for moose due to the loss of the old growth trees whose moss is a food source for moose.
But a different fire may have led to improved habitat for other moose. Kroger said the Little Venus Fire that hit the Washakie Wilderness in 2006 spurred willow growth in some of the fire-burned areas. Willow is the most significant part of the moose diet.
Gathering information
G&F is currently running a Meeteetse Moose Project to better analyze this herd, collaring 31 moose in Hunt Area 9 (Greybull-Owl Creek area).
“Getting some good information on those, documenting survival, habitat use, the movements of those collared moose across the landscape,” Kroger said.
Kroger said they more calves and better calf survival in this hunt area have been documented. Of the moose that were collared, only three have died: one from vehicle strike, one by malnutrition/predator attack and the other by hunter harvest.
“That’s a pretty good survival rate,” he said.
He said the collared cows have video cameras on their collars that have provided a valuable insight into their daily routines. One moose was spotted spending the entire summer in the area south of Burlington before heading over to the Meeteetse Creek for winter. He has also identified two different sets of moose twins living in the Wood River and Greybull River drainages.
There will be three total moose tags given out in the Greybull-Owl Creek area, five tags for Absaroka (Hunt Area 11) and no tags once again for the Yellowstone Thorofare (Hunt Area 8).
Moose hunting is much more prevalent in the southwestern and southern regions of the state with 39 tags offered in Lincoln County and 47 tags in the Big Piney area outside of National Forest lands.
Kroger said moose hunter success has been running at 100% in his district with the median age of harvested bulls 5-years old.
County Commissioner Joe Tilden, a former hunting guide, said there was a time when 48 moose tags were given out in Hunt Area 8, a location he said was considered at one time one of the strongest moose areas in the state. Tilden said G&F started cutting these tags in half until eventually there were none.
Mong said moose populations are “slightly increasing” in the North Fork area as well. He said the species has benefited from increased management of wolves over the past five years.
The most significant change Game and Fish is proposing for moose hunting statewide this year is to increase tags in southern Wyoming and offer a limited number of antlerless moose licenses for Moose Hunt Area 26 in Lincoln County, in response to chronic moose damage reported on multiple ranches.
Proposed moose archery seasons this year will run from Sept. 1 to mid-late September, while most regular moose seasons will run from Oct. 1-Oct. 31. There are a few exceptions.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/moose-population-growing/article_4de33083-9f7d-5a71-83be-ee9d1da2e32a.html
| 2022-04-22T01:28:24Z
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...HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM EARLY SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH
SATURDAY AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...West winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph
possible.
* WHERE...North Snowy Range Foothills, South Laramie Range,
South Laramie Range Foothills and Central Laramie County.
* WHEN...From early Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon.
* IMPACTS...Mainly to transportation. Strong cross winds will be
hazardous to light weight and high profile vehicles, including
campers and tractor trailers.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A High Wind Watch means a hazardous high wind event is possible.
Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or
more can lead to property damage.
&&
Weather Alert
...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT FRIDAY FOR
STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 430, 431,
433, 435, 436, AND 437...
...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT
FRIDAY FOR STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES
430, 431, 433, 435, 436, AND 437...
* AFFECTED AREA...Fire weather zones 430, 431, 433, 435, 436 AND
437.
* WIND...South to southwest 25 to 35 mph sustained with gusts of
45 to 55 mph.
* HUMIDITY...Minimum 8 to 15 percent.
* IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is highly discouraged.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. The combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.
&&
CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation has a reminder for anyone with a hankering to post signs along roads and highways: Just don't do it.
Whether you are a resident of our state, someone doing business here, a political candidate, or selling real estate (or potentially other goods), this applies to you, WYDOT said Thursday. The agency cited Wyoming statute 24-10-104, which says that outdoor advertising must meet various conditions in order to be allowed.
"Placing signs or objects within highway rights-of-way is prohibited, including on right-of-way fencing or on trees, traffic signs or traffic signal poles within the right-of-way," WYDOT reminded people.
There are a few reasons why you should not post materials along highways, roads and the like.
For one, such "signs in the rights of way and on traffic poles create a distraction to drivers, thus increasing the likelihood of an accident."
Further, the agency continued in its announcement, "the accumulation of paper, tape and staples becomes a littering issue."
WYDOT had one final reminder to those who might be tempted to violate this portion of the state's statute: "Fines and even jail time can be inflicted on those who don’t comply with the law."
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/wydot-reminds-not-to-place-signs-along-roads/article_4b6e89dc-33a4-5037-ab05-b84cf9dc3e7e.html
| 2022-04-22T01:28:30Z
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/putin-claims-victory-in-mariupol-despite-steel-mill-holdouts/article_4a3006b0-c1c9-11ec-a5e3-37d1b4508336.html
| 2022-04-22T01:33:04Z
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2 plead guilty in ‘We Build The Wall’ fraudulent fundraiser
NEW YORK (AP) — The co-founder of the “We Build The Wall” project aimed at raising money for a border wall pleaded guilty Thursday to charges in a case that once included former President Donald Trump’s adviser Steve Bannon.
Brian Kolfage admitted to pocketing hundreds of thousands of dollars while promising all donations would pay for the wall. His plea came a month before a trial in a case that began in dramatic fashion in August 2020, when Bannon was pulled from a luxury yacht off the coast of Connecticut and arrested on allegations that he and three others ripped off donors trying to fund a southern border wall.
Bannon was pardoned by Trump just before he left office last year. Bannon had pleaded not guilty to charges he pocketed over $1 million, using some of the money to secretly pay Kolfage, a 39-year-old Air Force veteran who lost both legs in a mortar attack in Iraq.
A guilty plea Thursday by codefendant financier Andrew Badolato, 57, in the case during the same remotely conducted electronic hearing before U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres in Manhattan meant that only one of the four defendants originally charged might go to trial in mid-May.
Plea agreements between the government and Kolfage and Badolato specified the defendants will not challenge sentences within an agreed-to guidelines range. For Kolfage, that range was four to five years. For Badolato, it was roughly 3 1/2 years to four years. Sentencing was scheduled for Sept. 6.
Kolfage, of Miramar Beach, Florida, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and tax charges brought originally in Florida. Badolato, of Sarasota, Florida, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy. Without the plea deal, Kolfage could have faced up to 46 years in prison while Badolato faced a maximum punishment of 20 years in prison.
The organizers of the “We Build The Wall” group raised more than $25 million from thousands of donors as they repeatedly pledged that every dollar would be used for the project.
Asked to describe his crimes by the judge, Kolfage said the group had originally intended for all the raised money to be used to build a wall, but it “soon became apparent” that the plan to donate the money to the U.S. government for the wall’s construction was not possible.
At that point, he said, they “induced donors to opt in to the new project” to build a border wall on private land by falsely representing that none of the donations would be spent on salaries or compensation to the fundraisers.
“I knew what I was doing was wrong and a crime,” he said.
After he spoke, Torres asked questions, including whether he had promised the public that “100 percent” of the money would go toward building the wall.
“That is correct,” he answered.
“Despite your promise, you made an agreement with others to keep a large sum of money for yourself,” the judge said.
“That is correct,” Kolfage answered.
Badolato said he engaged in the conspiracy from 2018 to 2020, agreeing to assure donors that all the money would go toward building the wall when he knew the statements were false.
“I knew this was wrong and I’m terribly, terribly sorry for what I did and I humbly beg the court for mercy,” he said.
When the judge asked Badolato if he was aware that Kolfage was going to get money from donations, he said: “Yes I did and I helped facilitate it.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Roos said evidence against the men at trial would have included testimony from donors, along with transaction records following donations into the defendants’ bank accounts, emails and text records, along with public statements made by the coconspirators that were false.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/2-plead-guilty-we-build-wall-fraudulent-fundraiser/
| 2022-04-22T01:49:21Z
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Boston urges masks, LA County keeps mask mandate as battle brews over transit rule
(AP) – Boston urged people to start wearing masks Thursday and the Biden administration weighed its next legal step in what is shaping up to be a high-stakes court fight over the abrupt end of the national mask mandate on airplanes and mass transit.
The Boston Public Health Commission noted a rise in hospitalizations, as well as a 65% increase in cases and an even larger spike in COVID-19 levels in local wastewater samples. It also stressed that the guidance was merely a recommendation, not an order.
The country is wrestling with how to deal with the next phase of the pandemic and find the right balance in enacting health measures at a time when many Americans are ready to move on after two exhausting years.
A federal judge in Florida this week threw out a national mask mandate on mass transportation, and airlines and airports responded swiftly Monday by repealing their requirements that passengers wear face coverings. That put the Biden administration in the position of trying to navigate an appeal that could have sweeping ramifications over the power that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has in regulating future health emergencies.
Los Angeles County bucked national trends and said Thursday it will still require masks on public transit including trains, subways, buses, taxis and rideshares. Cases have risen in the past week and hospitalizations have plateaued after falling the previous two months.
Masking is also required for indoor transportation hubs in Los Angeles County, including airport and bus terminals, train and subway stations, and seaports.
Philadelphia last week became the first big city to bring back a mask mandate, responding to a rise and infections and hospitalizations there, and other cities in the Northeast have been closely watching the trend lines and a new color-coded map from the CDC to decide next steps.
The map that the CDC switched to in late February is less focused on positive test results and more on what’s happening at hospitals to give community leaders clearer guidelines on when to urge masking. Nearly 95% of U.S. counties still have low transmission based on the map, but more places have shifted to medium and high transmission in recent weeks, including many places in upstate New York.
Hospitalizations nationally have ticked up in recent weeks but are nowhere near the peak reached at the height of the omicron surge.
“COVID-19 cases have increased rapidly citywide, so we need people to be vigilant and take precautions that can help us avoid another potential surge,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, the Boston commission’s executive director. “Living with COVID-19 is about collective responsibility and working together.”
She said people in Boston should mask indoors, stay up to date with their vaccinations and test for suspected infections.
The Boston recommendation came two days after the city’s transit system lifted mask requirements in response to the national transportation ruling, reflecting the mishmash of reactions following the court decision by an appointee of former President Donald Trump.
As the Biden administration figures out an appeal, Lawrence Gostin, a public health law expert at Georgetown University, said a “monumental battle” was shaping up, with the future of the CDC at stake. The agency continues to recommend that people wear masks in all indoor public transportation settings.
“The question the courts are going to have to decide, and the public will have to decide, is when the next health crisis hits — and it will — will we have a strong public health agency to protect the population?” he said. “Or will the CDC simply have its hands tied behind its back? I think it’s a very really possibility we’re going to see the CDC handcuffed.”
While the Supreme Court did strike down the agency’s eviction moratorium for housing, that was more at the edge of the agency’s authority. Setting rules for mask wearing on public transit is a basic, core tenant of the CDC’s power, Gostin said.
“If someone gets on a flight from New York to LA, there’s no state stopping them. The only thing preventing that transmission is the CDC,” Gostin said.
Temple University Law Professor Scott Burris echoed that sentiment, saying that the U.S. government’s legal authority to respond sensibly to epidemics and other kinds of emergencies is at stake in the case.
Burris said the ability to manage future health emergencies “must have weighed heavily” in the reasoning of the Justice Department to appeal the ruling, “but let’s not forget we’re going into another surge” and there is the potential for new variants.
An appeal would go to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, which is considered a right-leaning court, and conservative justices have a majority on the U.S. Supreme Court. A ruling could take away the CDC’s power to issue mask orders and cast any future orders under a “legal cloud,” he said.
Temple Law’s Craig Green said the federal government’s strategy is “really almost brilliant” because it could win in two ways with its appeal. If COVID-19 cases numbers continue to fall, Justice Department attorneys could argue that the issue is moot and ask to have the case thrown out.
“No one will have reason to cite it ever in the future as a precedent,” he said.
But he said that if cases rise, the federal government would be better positioned to reimpose a mask mandate.
“I think the arguments about what a government can do, what the federal level can do under conditions of emergency were very difficult and problematic,” he said. “I can understand why the Department of Justice and the United States government really did not want to see that kind of limit on their authority in the future, even if COVID ends up being more controlled in the future.
Amid the court battle, American, United and Delta have all indicated that they will lift the bans they imposed on passengers who refused to wear masks now that masks are optional on flights.
“We have talked to them individually,” United CEO Scott Kirby told NBC on Thursday. “Many of them assure us that now that the mask mandate is off, everything is going to be fine, and I trust that the vast majority of them will.”
Many passengers were shrugging off the changes. When Jon Schaudies flies from Chicago to San Antonio next week, he’ll wear a mask, but won’t worry if the passenger next to him doesn’t do the same.
Schaudies, who travels frequently as vice president of a small manufacturing company, feels that he has enough protection from the COVID-19 vaccine and booster to avoid becoming seriously ill if he does contract it.
“I feel like people are at such extremes, but I’m sort of right down the middle,” said Schaudies, 51, who plans to get a second booster shot.
He understands the worries of parents traveling with children who are too young to be vaccinated, but says “they have decision to make” about whether to fly. “But for business travelers, we can’t stop.”
“The world has to go on at some point.”
____
Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas, and Whitehurst from Salt Lake City. Associated Press writer Carla K. Johnson contributed from Seattle.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/boston-urges-masks-la-county-keeps-mask-mandate-battle-brews-over-transit-rule/
| 2022-04-22T01:49:27Z
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LOOK UP: Four planets can be seen in a line this month
(Gray News) – Skywatchers have something to look forward to later this month, according to NASA.
Four planets are moving throughout April to eventually form a conjunction, the agency says.
NASA says Venus, Mars and Saturn formed a trio at the beginning of the month. Saturn appeared to move towards Mars each day.
Looking up into the sky on April 1, Mars and Saturn appear to be a couple of finger widths apart, NASA says.
Saturn then continues increasing its separation from Mars as Jupiter starts to rise in the predawn hour by mid-month.
By the last week of April, NASA says Jupiter will be high enough above the horizon an hour before the sunrise to where it can be easier to be seen.
For other exciting sights you can observe in the sky, you can visit NASA’s website.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/look-up-four-planets-can-be-seen-line-this-month/
| 2022-04-22T01:49:34Z
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Report: Vaccinations could have prevented 60% of COVID deaths
Published: Apr. 21, 2022 at 8:37 PM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
(CNN) - A recent report suggests COVID-19 vaccinations could have prevented hundreds of thousands of deaths in the U.S.
On Thursday, the Kaiser Family Foundation released an analysis on preventable deaths due to the coronavirus.
Researchers suggested the vaccine could have saved at least 234,000 lives between June 2021 and March 2022, about 60% of the COVID deaths among adults during that same time period.
The initial vaccine series became widely available in the U.S last year, and the report found booster shots could have potentially prevented even more deaths.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/report-vaccinations-could-have-prevented-around-60-covid-deaths/
| 2022-04-22T01:49:40Z
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The 2020 Democratic presidential primary race was a bidding war in which the various candidates advocated spending trillions of dollars to enact sweeping progressive agendas. Some agendas were a bit more sweeping than others, but they all amounted to unprecedented increases in federal spending.
Take the issue of student loans. Bernie Sanders, the most progressive of the contenders, wanted to cancel all $1.6 trillion in student debt — just throw out all student loans for 40-plus million Americans and somehow make Wall Street pay for it. Elizabeth Warren pledged to forgive everyone’s student loans up to $50,000. And Joe Biden, the most cautious of the bunch, promised to “forgive a minimum of $10,000 per person of federal student loans.”
But here’s the thing: It didn’t happen, and yet no American with student loan debt has had to make a payment — any payment — for more than two years. It is all in the name of COVID relief. And it is still going on.
It started in the Trump administration. When Congress passed the first COVID relief bill, in March 2020, it paused student loan payments until September of that year. Then-President Donald Trump extended the pause until Dec. 31, 2020. Then the Trump administration extended it again, through the end of January 2021, by which time Joe Biden would be president.
Since then, even as he touted the improving economy — the job market is hot these days — Biden has extended the loan repayment pause time after time. On April 6, a couple of weeks ago, he did it again. “If loan payments were to resume on schedule in May,” Biden said in a statement, “analysis of recent data from the Federal Reserve suggests that millions of student loan borrowers would face significant economic hardship, and delinquencies and defaults could threaten Americans’ financial stability.”
So Biden extended the pause through Aug. 31, 2022. Now, here’s a question: Does anyone believe he will let payments resume at any point before this year’s midterm elections?
The same progressives who pushed for student loan forgiveness in the 2020 campaign are still pushing for it today. The problem is that they know they can’t pass such a measure through Congress. So they have been urging Biden to use his executive authority — in a way that would surely bring a constitutional challenge — to forgive student debt all by himself.
Meanwhile, the nation has a sort of backdoor loan forgiveness policy in place in the form of a continuously renewed moratorium on payments. Those 2020 Democratic campaign promises have (sort of) been kept — there will be no student loan repayments from the presidential election through the midterms.
And possibly even beyond that. Discussing the president’s extension on a Democratic podcast, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Biden would extend the pause yet again — if he doesn’t make a decision about canceling some debt altogether. “Between now and Aug. 31, it’s either going to be extended or we’re going to make a decision,” Psaki said.
There’s no doubt why Biden is doing it. He has concerns about a president’s authority to just cancel student debt. But he has no problem extending the moratorium started by his predecessor. And if he extends it just a little longer, no one will be resuming loan payments right as the midterms arrive. All of which prompted Betsy DeVos, who was Trump’s education secretary, to tweet, “The White House should just be honest about what they’re doing and announce they’ll turn the loan portfolio on after Election Day.” Don’t look for that to happen.
But what about the merits of all this? Biden’s handling of student debt is “galactically stupid,” in the words of Douglas Holtz-Eakin, a former head of the Congressional Budget Office. For several reasons. One, it’s “a misuse of pandemic emergency authorities,” Holtz-Eakin said, since it has “nothing to do with COVID-19.” Two, it’s “a misreading of the economy.” The job market is “incredibly tight,” giving workers a lot of flexibility. “If people who have gone to college cannot get a job and make loan payments now, what does it take to end the deferral?” asked Holtz-Eakin.
Third, it’s expensive and is “money spent with no return.” And finally, according to Holtz-Eakin, it is “throwing money at the affluent.” “It has been more than adequately documented that benefits of student loan deferral and forgiveness disproportionately accrue to the more affluent,” Holtz-Eakin wrote. “One can claim that they have ‘significant economic hardship,’ and that payment threatens ‘financial stability’” — two arguments from Biden’s April 6 statement — “but the facts don’t support it.”
But the politics do. And the Democrats’ political situation, with less than seven months to Election Day, is that the party is losing support among young voters. Democrats face the double problem of possible low turnout among young voters and still others abandoning the party — on top of the other groups leaving the party, too. Biden’s support among voters ages 18 to 34, around 40%, is “quite low for such a pro-Democratic group,” noted Democratic analyst Ed Kilgore.
How to score points with them? How about canceling student loan debt? Or, failing that, extending the moratorium on having to pay off student loan debt? A headline in The New Republic says: “Biden’s Only Good Pre-Midterm Play: Cancel Student Debt; Biden is in the low 40s, and young voters are disillusioned. There’s one obvious way to reignite a little enthusiasm. Will he take it?”
Maybe he will. But even if Biden does not actually cancel debt, he can extend the payment moratorium as long as he wants — all the way to the 2024 presidential election, if it comes to that. The president and his party desperately need young voters, who probably won’t be interested enough to turn out this November. Look for him to do anything to get their attention.
This content originally appeared on the Washington Examiner at washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/can-biden-buy-votes-with-student-debt-relief.
Byron York is chief political correspondent for The Washington Examiner
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/can-biden-buy-votes-with-student-debt-relief/article_f6c06b4b-b44e-501b-9f49-791c50ac37a5.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:06Z
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Tax Day has now passed. And many low-paid working families missed an opportunity to make their life a bit easier.
Year in, year out, Oregon ranks at or near the bottom nationally in the share of families qualifying for the earned income tax credit who actually claim it. That’s bad news not only for the working families missing out on the cash, but for the entire state, which loses out on federal dollars that would otherwise flow to our communities.
It’s time for the Oregon Legislature to deal with the problem once and for all by making serious investments in free tax assistance or, even better, relieve Oregonians of much of the hassle and cost of filing their taxes.
The tax credit for both federal and state taxes is designed to boost the income of workers paid low wages. To benefit, an eligible worker must file tax returns claiming the credit. For families with children, the federal tax credit on average puts an extra $3,000, in their pockets. That amount can be game-changing for a cash-strapped household.
In 2018, the most recent year with available data, more than one in four working families eligible – about 75,000 Oregon families in total – did not claim the credit. That year, only Alaska fared worse than Oregon in terms of earned income tax credit usage among qualifying families.
As a result, Oregon families left unclaimed about $84 million in federal tax credit dollars. This is federal money that didn’t enter Oregon’s economy. This money could have helped families catch up on rent, fix a car, or put aside money for their children’s education.
In addition to leaving federal dollars on the table, Oregonian workers also did not claim about $9 million in state earned income tax credit funds.
Why do families fail to claim this credit that would help them make ends meet? Lack of awareness is part of the problem. Some workers who aren’t required to file a tax return simply don’t know they can get the money if they file.
Other factors pose even bigger barriers. The tax system is complex. Filing a tax return can be intimidating – a deterrent for those who aren’t required to file. Then there are the perceived and actual costs of filing a tax return. And for some families, language can pose a barrier to filing and claiming the credit.
All of this amounts to an avoidable tragedy. We’re not capturing the full benefits of the EITC – reduced poverty, better health for families, improved academic achievement for children, and even a boost to local economies.
While Oregon has taken modest steps in the past to increase awareness of this tax credit, those actions have done little to move the needle.
One approach would be for the state to invest in free, culturally-appropriate tax preparation services. Volunteer-run programs have served some Oregon communities in the past, but many have foundered for lack of on-going support. Sustained public investment is vital to having a stable network of tax preparation services accessible to those who need assistance throughout the state.
In addition, the state should provide Oregonians a pre-filled tax return. The reality is that in many instances – especially with families whose entire income comes from a paycheck – the Oregon Department of Revenue already has all the relevant information. Often, filing a tax return is simply telling the department what it already knows.
Under this new system, the department would send everyone a pre-filled tax form. People would have the option of submitting it “as is,” correcting it, or rejecting it and preparing a tax return from scratch.
A pre-filled tax return would not only relieve many Oregon families of the cost and hassle of preparing a tax return, it would increase the share of qualifying families who claim the earned income tax credit.
This credit is an excellent strategy for fighting poverty among those who work. Let’s get the most out of it by removing the obstacles families face to claiming the tax credit.
Janet Bauer is the director of policy research at the Oregon Center for Public Policy, where she focuses on policies that improve the quality of jobs in Oregon and raise the incomes of residents.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/commentary-reforms-could-help-oregon-families-missing-out-on-millions-in-tax-credits/article_47919663-4281-522a-80d7-38e9ff49a557.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:12Z
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Lamb Weston’s French fry production plant in Hermiston has been discharging too much nitrate-loaded water onto area farms, according to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
The wastewater flowing from the plant has contaminated the groundwater, causing nitrate levels in some nearby wells to measure four to seven times the safe limit set by the federal Environmental Protection Agency, according to DEQ.
The state agency on March 31 warned the company that it faced enforcement action for contaminating the groundwater.
It was the second such notice issued to the company in recent months. In November, DEQ told the company it had been discharging too much tainted water on area farmland and faced enforcement action for that as well. The agency doesn’t disclose such notices on its website or otherwise publicize the findings until an enforcement has been made.
The notices ask the company about what steps it intends to take to cure the violations. For the most recent notice, Lamb Weston has 45 days. The agency then will consider whether to require corrective action or fine the company, according to Laura Gleim, public affairs specialist at DEQ.
The Hermiston french fry plant is Lamb Weston’s second largest plant in the Columbia River Basin. As of 2019, the plant had more than 500 employees who made nearly 750 million pounds of frozen potato products annually, according to Lamb Weston’s website.
Company officials could not be immediately reached this week for comment.
The violations were discovered when the plant applied to renew its water discharge permit from DEQ. The permit allows the plant to recycle water used to wash and process potatoes, which come into the plant covered in soil and fertilizers. The facility distributes the wastewater to nearby farms as a source of nutrient-rich water for irrigation.
But Lamb Weston overapplied the water on farms 75 times between 2016 and 2020, according to compliance reports that DEQ reviewed. During that time, 189 tons of nitrate in excess of permitted levels were applied in an area already deemed a vulnerable groundwater management area.
Such areas receive extra resources and planning from DEQ and designated committees in the area to reduce groundwater contamination.
DEQ said in its notices that wells down slope from where Lamb Weston’s nitrate-rich wastewater was applied had levels of nitrate between 36 and 79 parts per million. EPA limits for safe drinking water are no more than 10 parts per million.
Nitrate is difficult and expensive to remove from water, and for those who rely on wells for their drinking water, getting rid of nitrate requires filters that cost thousands of dollars.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/deq-says-lamb-weston-s-hermiston-plant-has-polluted-groundwater/article_f635f213-158e-53f4-9281-873db564a239.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:18Z
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Lakeview’s Colby Thompson, right, clears a hurdle just ahead of Mazama’s Reece Slyter in the boys 300 intermediate hurdles at the 2019 Lithia Invitational at Mazama High School.
It took a couple of years more than expected, but the 30th running of what is now known as the Coldwell Banker Track and Field Invitational will take place Saturday at Mazama High School.
One of the featured meets in the state was postponed in both 2020 and 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
"It doesn't seem like three years, but that's a long time to not have a featured event," said Dan Fast, who has been the meet director since 1991.
Even Fast admitted he's showing some signs of rust this week.
"I've been the meet director so long, I know the routine. But I forgot how many details you have to take care of to get this whole thing done," he said. "It's a labor of love. I enjoy watching the kids get the experience and set personal bests."
This year's meet, in which 28 schools and more than 600 athletes are expected to compete, will reclaim its title as the largest in the state east of the Cascades.
Summit High in Bend had larger fields in recent years and also had 28 teams scheduled to compete in its event last weekend. But inclement weather caused many teams to cancel and only 11 showed up, Fast said.
The Klamath Basin will be represented by 12 schools: Bonanza, Butte Valley, Chiloquin, Crosspoint Christian, Gilchrist, Henley, Lakeview, Lost River, Mazama, Modoc, North Lake and Paisley. Crosspoint Christian will be competing for the first time as a merger of Hosanna Christian and Triad Christian.
More than 20,000 athletes from 95 schools have competed over the past three decades. Past winners include Crater's Bryan Berryhill, who went on to become an NCAA track champion, and Mazama's Travis Olson, an NAIA national champ.
Fast said Henley's Andrew Edwards could challenge the meet record in the pole vault, set by Sweet Home's Dakota Keys in 2010. Keys cleared 15 feet, 1½ inches. Edwards has a personal best of 14-6.
The girls triple jump has nine competitors who have surpassed 32 feet and Fast said the boys 100 meters field is "stacked." Mazama's Aidan Kindt, who set a PR with a wind-aided 10.91 seconds Wednesday, will be among the top contenders in that event.
Fast predicted Henley will be a threat for both the boys and girls titles.
Mazama's 4x400 relay team, anchored by Savien Burk, will also be looking for a podium finish and a chance to earn a berth to the state meet.
“We have been improving a lot,” Burk said, “We want our best chance at state and want to give it our all.”
Events are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at Viking Field.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/mazama-set-to-host-30th-coldwell-banker-track-and-field-invitational/article_dba59f8d-4516-591d-a6b9-08bb1df91e2b.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:25Z
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The Henley High boys and girls track teams swept a six-team meet Wednesday at Mazama High.
Halle McKay won the 800 meters in a personal record 2 minutes, 42.46 seconds and also claimed the long jump by 8½ inches at 15 feet, ½-inch to lead the Hornets to the girls title.
The Henley girls finished with 229 points, with Mazama in second with 84 followed by Lost River (53), Bonanza (38), Hidden Valley (37) and Crosspoint Christian (5).
The Hornets also got PRs from winners Kelsey Whitaker in the 1,500 (5:56.50); Kendal Hadwick in the 100 hurdles (19.98) and Grace Tucker in the shot put (31-9½). Teammate Dana Scott triumphed in the 300 hurdles.
Lost River's Carlie Palmer won the 400 in a PR of 1:04.47 and teammate Ellie Huffman placed first in the high jump with a best of 4-10. Mazama's Haylee Knight topped her previous best in winning the 100 in 13.61.
Victor Alonzo and Eli Hayes led the Hornets to the boys title with 222 points. Mazama was second with 138⅔, followed by Hidden Valley (49), Lost River (31⅓), Crosspoint Christian (10) and Bonanza (6).
Alonzo won the 800 meters in 2:14.88 and set a PR in placing first in the javelin in 151-7. Hayes took the top spot in the high jump (5-8) and the long jump (20-6½). The Hornets also got victories from Geovanni Cazarez in the 400 (54.94), Samuel Iverson in the 1,500 (5:04.76), Joe Suty in the triple jump (40-9½) and the 4x100 relay (46.78).
Mazama's Aidan Kindt won the boys 100 in a PR of 10.91 and also ran the anchor leg on the Vikings' victorious 4x400 relay (3:48.50).
Baseball
Henley 13, Klamath Union 0: Dylan Tobias allowed just one hit over five innings and struck out nine as the Hornets (10-5 overall, 2-2 Skyline Conference) defeated the host Pelicans (3-10, 1-3) on Wednesday.
Tyler Harper went 3 for 4 with a double and scored three times and Tobias helped his own cause by going 2 for 3 with a double and two RBIs. Teammate Leo Ahalt scored twice and drove in two runs.
Hidden Valley 14, Mazama 3: Isaac Hill went 4 for 5 with a double, three runs and three RBIs and Noah Stone homered as the Mustangs (13-1, 3-1), the top-ranked team in the state in Class 4A, moved into a three-way tie with the host Vikings (7-7, 3-1) and Phoenix for the Skyline Conference lead.
Hidden Valley took a 4-0 lead through three innings and scored multiple runs in each of the final four frames.
Hill also struck out eight in allowing one hit over three innings and one unearned run.
Mazama leadoff hitter Braden Davis had a hit and drove in a run.
Softball
Mazama 8, Hidden Valley 7: Cambria Meyer grounded a single to center with one out in the bottom of the seventh inning to bring home the winning run for the Vikings (8-5, 4-0), who remained tied for first atop the Skyline Conference with Phoenix.
Mazama overcame a 5-0 deficit, tallying twice in the sixth to tie the score at 7-7.
Meyer went 2 for 3 and scored twice. Teammate Maggie Pizano hit a triple adn drove in two runs and Gracie Hamilton also had two RBIs.
Caelyn Davis earned the victory, as only one of the seven runs she allowed were earned. She struck out five.
Grant Union/Prairie City 3-12, Lakeview 0-5: Grant Union/Prairie City, the top-ranked team in the state in Class 2A/1A won the opener in nine innings and went on to sweep the nonleague doubleheader from the host Honkers (9-3), who are ranked 10th.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/prep-roundup-henley-sweeps-track-meet-at-mazama/article_4a554795-70af-5294-b9e2-25a1436321ba.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:31Z
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It’s a very small park, but one rich with history.
When it was created in 1994 atop Old Fort Road just four miles from downtown Klamath Falls, the original Marine Barracks Memorial Park was one of Oregon’s smallest parks, only spanning a 75- by 100-foot area.
In 2019, the park was relocated a short distance to its current location and its name changed to the North Ridge Marine Corps Memorial. The past and present parks remember the World War II years when 800 acres were used as the Klamath Falls Marine Barracks, a treatment and recuperation center for thousands of Marines and Navy personnel suffering from such mosquito-borne tropical diseases as filariasis, malaria and elephantiasis.
Decades later, it was determined the area, now part of the North Ridge Estates housing subdivision, was contaminated by asbestos. Declared a Superfund cleanup site by the Environmental Protection Agency, hazardous wastes were removed from 2016 to 2018. The new park features panels remembering the barracks history and also includes information boards about the Superfund cleanup.
Although relocated and slightly enlarged, the park’s primary mission remains – to preserve memories from its years, 1944 to 1946, as the World War II Klamath Falls Marine Barracks.
The location of the barracks, at an elevation of 4,805 feet, and the region’s dry climate were factors that helped thousands regain their health and strengthen immune systems. Most stayed about three months before returning to combat and other war duties. The complex housed 5,000 people. Its 80 buildings included Navy Medical Corps facilities, living areas for medics and nurses, along with a mess hall, gymnasium, swimming pool, auditorium, laundry, maintenance garage, sewage treatment plant, fire house, warehouse, jail, library, power plants, quarters for married and bachelor officers, and 30 barracks.
As one of the panels at the former park site noted of the barracks, “It served its purpose for thousands of Marines and went happily out of business. For most Marines who were treated, the barracks was a place that will always be remembered for the personal wars that were conquered here.”
Fittingly, those words were provided by Thelma Johnson, who, like several women in the community, married a Marine who had been sent to the barracks.
Among the Marines stationed at the barracks was Mitchell Page, a Marine colonel who served as provost marshal. Page, the main speaker at the 1994 Marine Barracks Park dedication, was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military honor, and Purple Heart for his actions at Guadalcanal in 1942.
The first Marines arrived at the barracks in April 1944 and the last were discharged in March 1946. Within a year of its opening, treatments proved that malaria and filariasis, then believed to be incurable, could be successfully treated.
As told in the Shaw Historical Library’s 2003 Journal, “Service & Sacrifice,” the idea for creating the barracks evolved in the South Pacific when Marine Major Gen. A.A. Vandergrift saw troops suffering from tropical diseases.
“Our sickness remains a major problem as we have some four thousand sick, three thousand of which are malarial,” he wrote. “Day by day I watched my Marines deteriorate in the flesh.”
Vandergrift urged Army Gen. Douglas McArthur, supreme commander of the Allied Forces in the Southwest Pacific, to establish a camp for ailing Marines.
In supporting the barracks, Navy Vice Admiral Ross T. McIntire, chief of the Bureau of Medicine, said the elevation was “just right,” noting, “The climate is a little severe in the winter but that is no drawback. The next thing you have is a town large enough to take of liberty requirements. I think it comes as near being ideal as anything you could find and stay out of congested areas.”
During talks in Klamath Falls, then a city of about 30,000, Marine Col. Bernard Dubel, the base’s commanding officer, emphasized the barracks was not a hospital or convalescent center, stressing, “They are not patients, but regular fighting Marines. Many of these boys after they are here a while will want to go back to duty and help finish the fight.”
The treatment, which focused on eating large healthy meals, exercise and continuing a Marine lifestyle, proved successful. Importantly, too, the psychological fears of sterility evaporated when married Marines and their wives had birth rates double the national average.
“The single men were not long in appreciating the point,” Albert Maisel wrote after visiting the post. “The marriage registry in Klamath Falls has become a crowded book.”
After the war the property was sold to the Oregon Emergency Board, which used the buildings to create the Oregon Vocational School in 1947. A year later the school was renamed Oregon Technical Institute. When a new campus was dedicated in 1964 at what is now the Oregon Institute of Technology, the former barracks was abandoned. By 1970, most of the old barracks’ buildings were razed.
In 1981, the Klamath Falls-based Crater Lake Detachment of the Marine Corps League sponsored a Marines Barracks Reunion, which led to follow-up reunions in 1984, 1988, 1994 and 1996.
The Klamath Falls Marine Barracks Memorial Park might be the region’s smallest park, but it commemorates a big, often forgotten and little remembered story. There might not be a lot to see, but there’s a lot to learn.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/remembering-the-marine-barracks/article_641c8e70-854d-538c-8462-7e8ba6d0cc4d.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:37Z
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NAWILIWILI, Hawaii — The shoreline heaved in the distance. I tried to track it with my eyes as the windblown waves relentlessly pounded the hull and confused my center of gravity.
We were trolling — dragging lures behind the boat — which ideally means moving in a straight line, but despite the captain’s best efforts to hold that line, the wind had other plans.
When I booked the trip, I dreamed of yellowfin tuna, spearfish, mahi mahi and marlin, but I was told to hope for an easterly wind. Winds from the east are mild, owing to the windbreaks of the other major islands in the Hawaiian chain, but in every other direction, wind in Kauai can be miserable.
Kauai is about as isolated a destination as you’ll find, with nothing but empty ocean between the Garden Island and its nearest neighbors in three directions. As the westernmost major island in the Hawaiian chain, it is exposed to almost 5,000 miles of open ocean before the next major landmass to the west, Taiwan. Alaska’s Aleutian Island chain is the closest northern landmass at 2,300 miles away. To the south, Antarctica floats in icy silence a staggering 6,700 miles away.
With nothing to stop the wind or break the waves it creates, an unbridled zephyr smashes Kauai’s least developed shorelines and any boats foolish enough to venture out from them. Desperate to finally catch a billfish or tuna, I was the fool on one such boat.
Wind-lose
There are serious anglers who experience serious seasickness. I feel bad for them because it’s like having allergies to the cat or dog you love. Despite spending hundreds of hours on fishing boats every year, I can usually keep my lunch down. As long as nobody is smoking, and I can keep my distance from the diesel fumes at the stern, I rarely get sick. It is only in the most violent conditions that I contribute to the ocean’s biomass, conditions like that December day in Kauai.
Arriving early meant nothing because there were only four anglers on the shared charter. I was joined by another solo 30-something who described himself as a “casual angler” and looked like he was auditioning to be the spokesman for a craft beer. When the attractive blonde nurse walked up alone, I couldn’t believe my luck. Seconds later, when her boyfriend joined her, that felt more like it. The couple rarely fished, but they’d grown tired of the softer outdoor pursuits on Kauai and couldn’t take another hike, kayaking trip or skimboarding session. Enter fishing.
Trolling charters operate one of two ways. Ideally, they run some sort of lottery to determine who gets to fight the first fish, second fish and so on. The other option is the captain assigns each a rod. In the latter scenario, sometimes one rod will catch five fish while the others all strike out. Sadly, this captain used the latter option.
This was my fourth or fifth trip trolling for billfish and tuna, and apart from a single, small blackfin tuna just under five pounds with my friend, Dominick Porcelli, I’d been skunked.
That day wasn’t looking promising, either.
The wind was up before the sun, and the cute nurse was the first to start puking. Her boyfriend was down half an hour later, and it was kind of sweet watching them cuddle behind the cabin until you saw the bucket of vile waste in between them. They rallied and each caught fish on their assigned rods, a species of tuna-like fish called the kawakawa or mackerel-tuna. Being hopelessly single and completely fish-obsessed, it’s not often I find a fish I’ve never heard of that swims U.S. waters, but this was one such instance.
The hipster also caught a kawakawa before turning green and finding his own bucket. The couple had rallied a bit, but hipster went down for the count.
Then the nurse caught two more fish, and I tried not to be visibly disappointed.
My rod remained untouched as the wind picked up. The boat was being absolutely throttled this way and that. I’d been on rougher seas exactly one time, and I was getting queasy in a hurry. When the deckhand threw up, I knew it was over.
Though I was nowhere near “vomit-free since ‘93,” I’d had a pretty good run of avoiding seasickness. Before this fateful trip to Kauai in the waning days of 2021, I hadn’t gotten seasick since 2016. This was my 10th charter trip that year, and I’d managed to fish the Florida Keys, the Outer Banks, the Channel Islands, the Oregon Coast and even Kona, Hawaii, without getting sick. I steeled myself and faced into the wind, which often helps combat seasickness. After setting the autopilot, the captain came down to tell us he was thinking about shortening the trip and giving us a partial refund. The other three stricken passengers immediately agreed. I hadn’t caught a fish, but just as I went to protest, my stomach protested being so thoroughly shaken, and I was forced to the rail. Seven years of fortitude ended as I chummed the angry water below. In no time, I had emptied my stomach.
The captain and his mate pulled lines, and we headed in. Standing on land and then brushing my teeth and eating lunch helped overcome the seasickness, but walking away from yet another bluewater trolling trip without a billfish or a tuna left me heartsick.
Preorder “Fishing Across America” at https://www.inkshares.com/books/fishing-across-america, sign up for every CaughtOvgard column at www.patreon.com/CaughtOvgard. Read more for free at caughtovgard.com; contact luke.ovgard@gmail.com.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/seasick-dreams-disappear-in-the-wind/article_318e43bc-a8e3-5def-994c-3ef46d894165.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:43Z
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/species-shapshot-great-blue-heron/article_b36725f6-edb9-54a0-a153-e1ab4719e1ef.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:50Z
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top story Ham heist: Burglar hits Honey Baked Ham store, flees in Mercedes By Mike Sunnucks Herald & News Apr 21, 2022 3 hrs ago Comments Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email 1 of 2 A Mercedes sedan believed to be involved in a burglary of a Honey Baked Ham store in Oregon. OCPD Video camera footage of a suspected burglar who hit the Honey Baked Ham store in Oregon City on April 17. OCPD Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save Police are searching for clues regarding the burglary of the Honey Baked Ham Company store in Oregon City.The break-in occurred at approximately 9:19 p.m. on April 17. The ham bandit is described as wearing a camouflage jacket, white shorts, and white tennis shoes and broke a glass door to the store.The pork pilferer stole “multiple items of value and then left the location in a white four-door Mercedes Benz,” according to Oregon City Police. Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save Tags Crime Oregon Oregon City Ham Honey Baked Ham Burglary Honey Baked Ham Company Store Police Pilferer Criminal Law Bandit Mercedes Burglar Break-in Trending Now Man who killed mom back in custody after escaping from Oregon mental hospital Police chase traverses two counties, ends with van in ditch Tribe suing Biden administration over Oregon water Local man accused of strangling wife during argument Masked man robs Dutch Bros Coffee shop Latest e-Edition Klamath Falls Herald and News Read the latest edition of the Klamath Falls Herald and News. Local Survey As mask mandates come to an end in Oregon, how will you use them in future? You voted: Will never wear one again Will wear masks in busy places, like airports and stadiums Will wear if experiencing symptoms Will wear if requested by friend/store/municipality Vote View Results Back
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/news/local_news/ham-heist-burglar-hits-honey-baked-ham-store-flees-in-mercedes/article_3cb52d3a-c88f-5495-9fa2-507cc910b425.html
| 2022-04-22T02:24:56Z
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CHEYENNE – The Cheyenne City Council Committee of the Whole voted Wednesday evening to award the only available retail liquor license to the developers of The Railspur project.
This is not the final vote on the matter, but rather a recommendation for the governing body to issue the license to Get Bent LLC at this coming Monday night's meeting. It required a majority vote, which was 5-2, with one council member absent and Council President Scott Roybal abstaining.
The company was one of nine applicants in consideration for the retail liquor license this week, after two withdrew their applications. The Railspur was one of three projects proposed for the downtown West Edge District. Get Bent manager Chad Willett said this is an additional investment he wants to make in the community, along with partners from Micro Pop-Up Concepts.
“The Railspur project is just another project in which to continue to capitalize on what I feel Cheyenne should be,” he told council members.
Willett said he still hopes to take the already constructed West Edge Collective building and make it a coffee bistro by day and bar by night. Residents will have access to handcrafted cuisine and grab-and-go treats from local food trucks, specialty drinks and a selection of package liquor in the boutique store.
An outdoor seating area, small event space and area to host live music and DJs is also featured in the mockup. Since the building is already made up of reclaimed metal structure from Wyoming train bridges and shipping containers, Get Bent wants to surround the outdoor space with overlook areas built out of the shipping containers.
The location is designed to attract locals and tourists. The developers also said it will catalyze rapid, area-wide transformation, create more than 20 jobs and reimagine an underutilized location.
“I know that there’s a lot of new things that are happening down in the area,” resident Jessie Sevier said in support of The Railspur. “I have a young family here, I’ve lived here for almost 12 years now, and I’m proud to be able to walk downtown. Any development downtown is going to be a huge boom for Cheyenne as it brings young professionals to the community.”
These were many of the reasons City Council members said they were supporters of the project. It also came down to timing. The governing body voted to approve an amendment to the motion that would require the applicant to have a full certificate of occupancy by Dec. 31, or the license would revert back to the city.
Council member Michelle Aldrich brought forward the motion to award the license to The Railspur, following votes on approving applications for Westby Edge Brewing and the Old Cheyenne Elevator that failed. She was not alone in her belief The Railspur would fulfill requirements and it would benefit the community.
“Any criteria that I know of, Get Bent has met with their dedication to the neighborhood, to the community and the ability to turn that into a facility that would fulfill those functions,” City Council member Pete Laybourn said.
While The Railspur received the initial vote in support of receiving the license, every council member expressed how difficult the decision was. Only one retail liquor license was available due to restrictions in state law, and they said every proposal was deserving. Both the City Council and members of the public said they plan to fight for less-antiquated laws, and hopefully provide a chance for other entrepreneurs in the next year.
“This should be a joyous occasion, because we’ve seen so much innovation and folks who have invested blood, sweat and tears,” council member Jeff White said. “A lot of sweat equity went into all of these presentations. And the fact is that we can only award one license; one person is going to be happy, and the rest are disappointed. And I really struggle with having to go through with this.”
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/city-council-members-vote-to-award-retail-liquor-license-to-the-railspur/article_d2c5720c-2de7-5718-9b4e-80f40f2d658e.html
| 2022-04-22T03:08:01Z
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NY Times report: McCarthy said he would urge Trump to resign
(AP) - House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy told other GOP lawmakers shortly after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection that he would urge then-President Donald Trump to resign, according to an audio recording posted Thursday night by The New York Times.
The Times reported that the audio was a recording of a Jan. 10 conversation among House GOP leaders in which they discussed the Democratic effort to impeach Trump.
McCarthy is heard telling the other lawmakers that he would tell Trump, “I think this will pass, and it would be my recommendation you should resign.”
McCarthy also said: “What he did is unacceptable. Nobody can defend that and nobody should defend it.”
Earlier Thursday, after the Times published a story describing the conversation, McCarthy released a statement calling it “totally false and wrong.”
The audio released late Thursday night depicts a very different McCarthy than the one who has been ruling over House Republicans in the last year and a half. The condemnation of Trump on the recording is also well beyond the speech McCarthy made on the House floor shortly after the insurrection, when he told his caucus that Trump “bears responsibility” for the violence that took place at the Capitol.
Since the attack, the California Republican has continued to distance himself from any criticism of Trump and has avoided ever directly linking him again to the attack. Instead, McCarthy has cozied up to Trump, visiting him at the former president’s Florida residence at Mar-a-Lago.
With Republicans likely take over the House next year, McCarthy has begun to build out his leadership team and set up task forces to address some of the core priorities for the party, which sees Trump as its current leader.
The Times report Thursday was adapted from an upcoming book, “This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden and the Battle for America’s Future,” by Times reporters Jonathan Martin and Alexander Burns. MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow aired clips of the conversation on her program Thursday night.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/ny-times-report-mccarthy-said-he-would-urge-trump-resign/
| 2022-04-22T03:16:54Z
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Woman arrested for trying to bribe deputy with sexual acts, authorities say
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (Gray News) - A woman in North Texas has been charged with bribery after authorities said she tried to bribe a deputy with sexual acts during her arrest.
Constable Mark Herman in Harris County reports Dulce Ortiz, 21, was taken into custody initially for her involvement in a car crash on Wednesday.
Authorities said they were called to a neighborhood to investigate reports of a crash where the driver took off after a vehicle drove over a flower bed and damaged a sign.
Deputies said a man attempted to take responsibility for the crash, but witnesses helped identify Ortiz as the driver.
The 21-year-old eventually returned to the scene, and she was taken into custody after showing signs of intoxication, authorities said.
The constable reports while Ortiz was being transported to jail, she attempted to bribe a male deputy by offering sexual acts and cash in exchange for being let go.
Ortiz was booked into the Harris County Jail on a bribery charge.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/woman-arrested-trying-bribe-deputy-with-sexual-acts-authorities-say/
| 2022-04-22T03:17:02Z
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The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York announced Thursday that Brian Kolfage and Andrew Badolato plead guilty in connection with their roles in defrauding hundreds of thousands of donors to an online crowdfunding campaign known as “We Build the Wall.” Both defendants pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres.
Brian Kolfage is a 1999 graduate of Kaimuki High School in Honolulu. After graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force.
Kolfage, 39, and Badolato, 57, both Florida residents, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Kolfage also pled guilty to tax and wire fraud charges filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida.
According to the indictment in the case, Kolfage, Badolato, and others orchestrated a scheme to defraud hundreds of thousands of donors in connection with an online crowdfunding campaign called “We Build The Wall”.
The online campaign raised more than $25 million to build a wall along the U.S. southern border. In particular, to induce donors to donate to the campaign, Kolfage repeatedly and falsely assured the public that he would “not take a penny in salary or compensation” and that “100% of the funds raised . . . will be used in the execution of our mission and purpose.”
In truth, Kolfage and others received hundreds of thousands of dollars in donor funds from We Build the Wall, which they each used in a manner inconsistent with the organization’s public representations. They devised a scheme to route payments from We Build the Wall to Kolfage indirectly.
Kolfage covertly took for his personal use more than $350,000 in funds that donors had given to We Build the Wall, according to records.
The payments were processed through fake invoices and sham “vendor” arrangements, among other ways, to ensure, as Kolfage noted in a text message to Badolato, that his pay arrangement remained “completely confidential” and kept on a “need-to-know” basis.
Both Kolfage and Badolato are scheduled to be sentenced on September 6.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/kaimuki-high-graduate-pleads-guilty-to-build-the-wall-wire-fraud-conspiracy/article_0d9198c4-c1e0-11ec-af41-2f23c5865d2c.html
| 2022-04-22T03:37:21Z
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/permitting-overhaul-may-mean-faster-build-times-for-homeowners/article_84469aca-c1d9-11ec-8576-ab5d128d2588.html
| 2022-04-22T03:37:27Z
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United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/queens-medical-center-redevelopment-plan-moves-forward-after-permit-approved/article_db3f1c24-c1d6-11ec-9c63-bf5032197c6d.html
| 2022-04-22T03:37:33Z
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/teen-suspect-in-makaha-death-identified-charged-with-murder-in-the-second-degree/article_46c0a1de-c1dc-11ec-aaeb-9f1112f217f2.html
| 2022-04-22T03:37:39Z
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Independence slugs its way past Liberty
Patriots tally a pair of big innings
Published: Apr. 22, 2022 at 12:20 AM EDT|Updated: 25 minutes ago
SOPHIA, W.Va. (WVVA) - Atticus Goodson launched the first pitch he saw far over the fence and the Patriots offense didn’t look back.
Independence scored 5 in the first inning and 7 in the fourth. The Patriots win 13-2 in five innings.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/independence-slugs-its-way-past-liberty/
| 2022-04-22T04:46:33Z
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Lauren Hay signs with Bluefield cheer
Blue Tornado stays close to home
Published: Apr. 21, 2022 at 11:17 PM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
RICHLANDS, Va. (WVVA) - Lauren Hay will cheer for the Bluefield Rams starting in the fall.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/lauren-hay-signs-with-bluefield-cheer/
| 2022-04-22T04:46:39Z
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Masked suspects get away with $413K in merchandise from Louis Vuitton in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI (WXIX/Gray News) - An estimated $413,000 in merchandise was stolen Wednesday from the Louis Vuitton store at Kenwood Towne Centre in Kenwood, Ohio, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Shortly after 3 p.m., around eight to 10 people wearing ski masks were dropped off at the entrance of the shopping center.
The individuals proceeded to the Louis Vuitton store as they pushed passed store employees to get into the store, the sheriff’s office explained.
The group managed to steal “every item on the showroom floor,” the sheriff’s office said.
Photos released Thursday show the suspects running out of the store, merchandise in hand, on their way to a dark gray SUV and a black sedan. The vehicles were last seen northbound on I-71, according to the sheriff’s office.
Call 513-851-6000 if you have information regarding this investigation.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/masked-suspects-get-away-with-413k-merchandise-louis-vuitton-cincinnati/
| 2022-04-22T04:46:45Z
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Port Huron Police looking to connect to kids through summer camps
Kobi Moretz's first introduction to law enforcement was with the Port Huron Police Department's week-long high school police academy.
He said being exposed to various elements of the profession — such as traffic stops, interviewing techniques and building searches — as well as meeting nearly a dozen law enforcement officers, fueled his passion for the profession.
"That's a great introduction to see what the career is like once you get into it," said Moretz, who is now a cade with the department.
Now, nearly three years after he completed the high school academy in summer 2019, he is applying to the Michigan State Police and plans to attend the police academy in June. Moretz is one of several high school academy graduates who have gone on to pursue a career in law enforcement.
The Port Huron Police Department's High School Police Academy and Law Enforcement Elementary Summer Camp are designed to foster positive relationships with young people. The high school academy is designed to get students interested in a career in law enforcement, Port Huron Police School Resource Officer Dennis Huisman said.
The youth academy, held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 25 to 29 at Port Huron Northern High School, is a condensed version of the 16-week police academy young people would attend prior to becoming police officers, Huisman said.
"It's taking a step further, maybe a couple steps further, than the elementary camp where we're building positive relationships; we want these kids to also be interested in becoming a police officer," Huisman said.
The program is for students entering ninth grade through twelfth grade and for graduating seniors. Registration is $50. To apply, contact Huisman at phpdya@gmail.com or (810) 984-2671 ext. 1857. The registration deadline is April 29.
St. Clair County Prosecutor Mike Wendling is one of the speakers who visits the academy to teach students about how a prosecutor's office works, how a case gets introduced to a jury or a judge and how criminal cases proceed after the conclusion of a police investigation.
Wendling and Huisman said it's important to expose young people to a career in law enforcement or the criminal justice system as fewer young people enter the field, possibly deterred by a decrease in benefits or criticism from the media or public.
“We want to recruit people into the criminal justice system who want to do this kind of work and it’s been hard given the current national environment as it relates to law enforcement," Wendling said.
Huisman said the summer camps are supported by donations and a grant for $5,406 from the Community Foundation of St. Clair County.
Law enforcement elementary summer camp
The elementary school camp, held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 20 to 23 at several Port Huron schools, will expose students to a variety of law enforcement topics, such as the police dog unit, fingerprinting and physical agility.
Huisman said students will meet police officers and participate in a pinewood derby with model police cars.
"(It's) really kind of a low-key, six-hour day," Huisman said.
The program is open for students going into fourth through sixth grade for the 2022-23 school year. The program is free and lunch is provided. The registration deadline is May 20. Contact Huisman at dhuisman@phasd.us or school resource officer Laura Phillips at lphillips@phasd.us to register.
The goal of the program is to foster positive relationships between young children and police officers, Huisman said.
"Officers who are out in their cars, we want to be approachable. If we're in McDonald's or Tim Horton's getting something to eat I want those kids coming up to me and talking to me and I think this is kind of breaking down that barrier for those kids," Huisman said. "Getting them out here, being positive with them, getting them to know that we are just actual people, we're not robots out there, doing our jobs. We're there to build positive relationships."
Contact Laura Fitzgerald at (810) 941-7072 or lfitzgeral@gannett.com.
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https://www.thetimesherald.com/story/news/2022/04/22/port-huron-police-department-host-elementary-and-high-school-summer-camps/7384299001/
| 2022-04-22T06:19:25Z
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Possible mass graves near Mariupol shown in satellite images
ZAPORIZHZHIA,Ukraine (AP) — New satellite images show what appear to be mass graves near Mariupol, and local officials accused Russia of burying up to 9,000 Ukrainian civilians there in an effort to conceal the slaughter taking place in the siege of the port city.
The images emerged Thursday, just hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed victory in the battle for Mariupol, despite the presence of an estimated 2,000 Ukrainian fighters who were still holed up at a giant steel mill. Putin ordered his troops to seal off the stronghold “so that not even a fly comes through” instead of storming it.
Satellite image provider Maxar Technologies released the photos, which it said showed more than 200 mass graves in a town where Ukrainian officials say the Russians have been burying Mariupol residents killed in the fighting. The imagery showed long rows of graves stretching away from an existing cemetery in the town of Manhush, outside Mariupol.
Mariupol Mayor Vadym Boychenko accused the Russians of “hiding their military crimes” by taking the bodies of civilians from the city and burying them in Manhush.
The graves could hold as many as 9,000 dead, the Mariupol City Council said Thursday in a post on the Telegram messaging app.
Boychenko labeled Russian actions in the city as “the new Babi Yar,” a reference to the site of multiple Nazi massacres in which nearly 34,000 Ukrainian Jews were killed in 1941.
“The bodies of the dead were being brought by the truckload and actually simply being dumped in mounds,” an aide to Boychenko, Piotr Andryushchenko, said on Telegram.
There was no immediate reaction from the Kremlin. When mass graves and hundreds of dead civilians were discovered in Bucha and other towns around Kyiv after Russian troops retreated three weeks ago, Russian officials denied that their soldiers killed any civilians there and accused Ukraine of staging the atrocities.
In a statement, Maxar said a review of previous images indicates that the graves in Manhush were dug in late March and expanded in recent weeks.
After nearly two lethal months of bombardment that largely reduced Mariupol to a smoking ruin, Russian forces appear to control the rest of the strategic southern city, including its vital but now badly damaged port.
But a few thousand Ukrainian troops, by Moscow’s estimate, have stubbornly held out for weeks at the steel plant, despite a pummeling from Russian forces and repeated demands for their surrender. About 1,000 civilians were also trapped there, according to Ukrainian officials.
Ukrainian officials have repeatedly accused Russia of launching attacks to block civilian evacuations from Mariupol.
At least two Russian attacks on Thursday hit the city of Zaporizhzhia, a way station for people fleeing Mariupol. No one was wounded, the regional governor said.
Among those who arrived in Zaporizhzhia after fleeing the city were Yuriy and Polina Lulac, who spent nearly two months living in a basement with at least a dozen other people. There was no running water and little food, Yuriy Lulac said.
“What was happening there was so horrible that you can’t describe it,” said the native Russian speaker who used a derogatory word for the Russian troops, saying they were “killing people for nothing.”
“Mariupol is gone. In the courtyards there are just graves and crosses,” Lulac said.
The Red Cross said it had expected to to evacuate 1,500 people by bus, but that the Russians allowed only a few dozen to leave and pulled some people off of the buses.
Dmitriy Antipenko said he lived mostly in a basement with his wife and father-in-law amid death and destruction.
“In the courtyard, there was a little cemetery, and we buried seven people there,” Antipenko said, wiping away tears.
Instead of sending troops to finish off the Mariupol defenders inside the steel factory in a potentially bloody frontal assault, Russia apparently intends to maintain the siege and wait for the fighters to surrender when they run out of food or ammunition.
All told, more than 100,000 people were believed trapped with little or no food, water, heat or medicine in Mariupol, which had a prewar population of about 430,000. Over 20,000 people have been killed in the siege, according to Ukrainian authorities.
The city has seized worldwide attention as the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war, including deadly airstrikes on a maternity hospital and a theater.
Boychenko rejected any notion that Mariupol had fallen into Russian hands.
“The city was, is and remains Ukrainian,” he declared. “Today our brave warriors, our heroes, are defending our city.”
The capture of Mariupol would represent the Kremlin’s biggest victory yet of the war in Ukraine. It would help Moscow secure more of the coastline, complete a land bridge between Russia and the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia seized in 2014, and free up more forces to join the larger and potentially more consequential battle now underway for Ukraine’s eastern industrial heartland, the Donbas.
At a joint appearance with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, Putin declared, “The completion of combat work to liberate Mariupol is a success,” and he offered congratulations to Shoigu.
Shoigu predicted the Azovstal steel mill could be taken in three to four days. But Putin said that would be “pointless” and expressed concern for the lives of Russian troops in deciding against sending them in to clear out the sprawling plant, where the die-hard defenders were hiding in a maze of underground passageways.
Instead, the Russian leader said, the military should “block off this industrial area so that not even a fly comes through.”
The plant covers 11 square kilometers (4 square miles) and is threaded with some 24 kilometers (15 miles) of tunnels and bunkers.
“The Russian agenda now is not to capture these really difficult places where the Ukrainians can hold out in the urban centers, but to try and capture territory and also to encircle the Ukrainian forces and declare a huge victory,” retired British Rear Adm. Chris Parry said.
Russian officials for weeks have said capturing the mostly Russian-speaking Donbas is the war’s main objective. Moscow’s forces opened the new phase of the fighting this week along a 300-mile (480-kilometer) front from the northeastern city of Kharkiv to the Azov Sea.
While Russia continued heavy air and artillery attacks in those areas, it did not appear to gain any significant ground over the past few days, according to military analysts, who said Moscow’s forces were still ramping up the offensive.
A senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the Pentagon’s assessment, said the Ukrainians were hindering the Russian effort to push south from Izyum.
Rockets struck a neighborhood of Kharkiv on Thursday, and at least two civilians were burned to death in their car. A school and a residential building were also hit, and firefighters tried to put out a blaze and search for anyone trapped.
Elsewhere, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said Russian troops kidnapped a local official heading up a humanitarian convoy in the southern Kherson region. She said the Russians offered to free him in exchange for Russian prisoners of war, but she characterized that as unacceptable.
Vereshchuk also said efforts to establish three humanitarian corridors in the Kherson region failed Thursday because Russian troops did not hold their fire.
In the U.S., President Joe Biden pledged an additional $1.3 billion for new weapons and economic assistance to help Ukraine, and he promised to seek much more from Congress to keep the guns, ammunition and cash flowing.
___
Associated Press journalists Mstyslav Chernov and Felipe Dana in Kharkiv, Ukraine; Danica Kirka in London; and Robert Burns and Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed to this report, as did other AP staff members around the world.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/possible-mass-graves-near-mariupol-shown-satellite-images/
| 2022-04-22T06:22:21Z
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Wyoming East softball & baseball sweep Thursday match ups
Published: Apr. 22, 2022 at 1:11 AM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
NEW RICHMOND, W.Va. (WVVA) - It was a busy Thursday in New Richmond. The Wyoming East softball team hosted cross-county foe, Westside. The baseball team hosted Summers County for a doubleheader, and it was a clean sweep for the Warriors.
SOFTBALL:
Wyoming East 16 - Westside 2
BASEBALL:
Wyoming East 3 - Summers County 1 (Game One)
Wyoming East 6 - Summers County 3 (Game Two)
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/wyoming-east-softball-baseball-sweep-thursday-match-ups/
| 2022-04-22T06:22:28Z
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A survey of more than 1,500 Oregonians found nearly 40% did not feel their values and beliefs were represented by their local school boards and more than a quarter were unsure.
In March, the Oregon Values and Beliefs Center, an independent nonprofit research group, sent the online survey to Oregonians ages 18 and up.
School boards have increasingly become sources of political and community controversy. In Oregon last year, about half of Oregon’s 1,400 school board positions were up for election and many were filled by new members, according to the Oregon School Boards Association.
Some of those new members campaigned on platforms against the teaching of critical race theory or opposed Gov. Kate Brown’s pandemic-related mask mandate for students and school employees. The high-profile firings of several school superintendents by their boards for enforcing mask and vaccine mandates, as well as ideological battles over political symbols in schools, student equity initiatives and certain classroom lessons on racism, led to the Oregon Legislature passing the Superintendents Protection Act. That law forbids school boards from firing superintendents for following laws and executive orders. Another bill that would have required training for new school board members did not pass during the February legislative session.
Among survey respondents, Democrats were more likely to feel their views were represented by their school boards, along with those making $100,000 per year or more and those with a college degree. Oregonians 75 and older were more likely to feel their values and beliefs were represented on their local school board compared to any other age group.
There were equal proportions of rural and urban Oregonians who did feel they were being represented by their school boards.
In an email, Jim Green, executive director of the School Boards Association, wrote that, “School boards are unique in that they are relatively easy points of entry into politics as far as cost, but have enormous influence on our communities because they set a course for our young people. So it follows that when we have such a huge political divide that trust will erode, especially across political lines."
Other survey questions concerned what grade levels are most important for investing state tax dollars and what curriculum is most important for students and the future of Oregon.
The Values and Beliefs Center found that Oregonians want the greatest state investments to be made in high school, above all other grade levels. This was especially true among rural residents.
Democratic respondents said school curriculum that teaches about mental health and relationship building is more important than standardized curriculum, more important than parental choice in curriculum and more important than getting curriculum “back to basics.” Among respondents,
Half of those 18 to 29 said a social and emotional education is the most important part of school curriculum.
Nearly half of Republican respondents said getting curriculums “back to basics” is most important.
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/klamath/poll-oregonians-unsure-or-unconvinced-their-school-boards-represent-their-values/article_5b02d7a5-b573-59a7-8b09-541fb335a8dc.html
| 2022-04-22T08:02:16Z
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Counties in southern Oregon still have a ways to go to recoup all the jobs lost during the start of the coronavirus pandemic, according to new state labor data released Thursday.
The March jobs data also shows that Klamath County has Oregon’s highest unemployment rate and local jobs are still down 3% from pre-pandemic levels.
Klamath’s unemployment rate is 5.3% down from 5.5% in February. The local jobless rate was 5.8% in March 2020. The U.S. unemployment rate is 3.6% while Oregon’s 4.5%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Klamath county added 120 jobs in March but is still down 710 jobs from pre-pandemic levels in 2020, according to the Oregon Employment Department.
Neighboring Lake County lost 40 jobs in March and has a 4.6% unemployment rate compared to 3.8% in March.The county is down 150 jobs from pre-COVID levels.
Other southern Oregon counties are also looking to get their employment bases back to pre-pandemic levels. Douglas County has recouped 68% of the jobs it lost in March and April of 2020 when the pandemic impacted the U.S. economy, according to OED.
Jackson County, which includes Medford, added 380 jobs in March with gains in the construction and hospitality sectors. The retail sector lost 250 jobs in Jackson County.The county is still down 1,480 jobs from March 2020, according to OED.
Next door, Josephine County has gained back all but 130 jobs lost during the pandemic, according to the March employment data.Josephine gained 230 jobs in March and has a 4.8% unemployment rate.
The state’s lowest jobless rate is 2.9% is in Benton County.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Klamath’s 5.3% unemployment rate is lower than some other U.S. areas with high jobless rates such as Yuma, Arizona (12%), El Centro, California (14.0%), Flint, Michigan (6.8%), Rockford, Illinois (7.9%) and Youngstown, Ohio (6%) but is on par or higher with some other economically challenged areas such as Mansfield Ohio (5.2%) and Baltimore (4.2%).
The jobs numbers comes as employers continue to struggle to find and retain workers. Labor shortages stretch across industries and regions.
Gas prices and inflation
The U.S. economy continues to see large numbers of workers quitting their jobs.Those workers and their employers also continue to grapple with inflation and high energy prices.Gasoline and diesel prices in Oregon and California are up significantly compared to last year.
Gas averages $4.67 per gallon in Oregon up $1.43 per gallon from a year ago, according to AAA.That is fourth highest in the continental U.S.
Oregon’s prices are down a bit from the record prices of $4.74 per gallon reached in March.
Diesel fuel averages $5.38 per gallon in Oregon, $5.51 per gallon in Washington state and $6.53 per gallon in California, according to AAA.
Those stress truckers, logistics drivers, farmers and other businesses who are already battling an 8.5% inflation rate — the highest in 40 years.
In California, gas prices average $5.69 per gallon — up $1.71 per gallon from a year ago, according to April 21 data from AAA.
The inflation challenge started in earnest last year but has been magnified by U.S. and NATO sanctions against Russia and its ally Belarus over the invasion of Ukraine.That has raised prices for food and energy commodities and products such as fertilizers.
The Biden administration has released oil from the U.S. stockpiles and pressed other oil producers to up production levels to make up for restrictions on Russian energy exports.
The region’s Republican lawmakers — U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz of Oregon and Doug LaMalfa — want President Joe Biden to open up more areas for drilling.Biden pulled back on some drilling approvals given by the Trump administration. The White House contends that there are a significant number of unused oil drilling licenses already at the energy sector’s disposal.
“Putin didn’t cause the massive hike in gas prices, President Biden’s anti-energy policies did – and it’s up to him to reverse his actions and stop the financial sufferings of the American people,” said LaMalfa, who represents far northern California. “Last week, a federal judge shot down Biden’s executive order halting oil leasing on federal lands. Gas prices over six dollars a gallon are outrageous, and it’s past time that we get a reprieve. We’re sitting on the largest untapped oil reserve in the world while Biden is depleting our strategic reserves, it’s time to get drilling and drive down these costs.”
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https://www.heraldandnews.com/news/local_news/region-digging-out-of-covid-jobs-hole-klamath-has-states-highest-unemployment-rate/article_732078b3-01eb-53af-b5cf-5974ed2c3cbd.html
| 2022-04-22T08:02:23Z
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Xavier Plans Graduate School of Health Sciences, Medical School
NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Xavier University of Louisiana announced that it is entering the planning phase to establish a graduate school of health sciences and medical school. For decades, Xavier has consistently produced more African American students and students of color who achieve Medical Degrees and PhDs in the health sciences than any other higher education institution in the nation. Xavier’s College of Pharmacy is the oldest in Louisiana and continues to rank amongst the highest performing.
Building upon this success, Xavier University of Louisiana has continued to add innovative graduate degree programs, including a Physician’s Assistant program, a master’s in Public Health program, Speech Pathology, Pharmaceutical Studies and Health Analytics that expand representation in health professions.
Dr. Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University of Louisiana, has long been a champion for addressing health disparities and underrepresentation in the medical and health sciences.
“Xavier was founded with the mission of promoting the creation of a just and humane society through education,” President Verret stated. “The establishment of graduate education programs dedicated to the preparation of more black healthcare professionals is a natural extension of our foundress’ legacy as we approach our second century of service. It is also where we are called to answer a critical need of our nation.”
The pandemic emphasized the need for greater diversity in the medical profession, as representation and trust are essential determinants underlying the health disparities affecting underrepresented populations. A recent Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) report noted “…gains in diversity are not shared by all groups. In particular, growth of Black or African American applicants, matriculants and graduates lagged behind other groups.” [1] Underrepresented minorities still struggle to grow in numbers at all levels of the medical profession, with only incremental improvement over the past decades, including at the highest academic levels.[2] Thus, higher education must also redouble efforts to recruit, retain, and advance minorities in academic medicine.
Experts agree the way to address the physician shortage is to create new medical schools, but diverse representation requires a further step. In the last century (and since the Flexner report), there have been few new medical colleges until recently, and only one at a Historically Black College and University. Xavier University of Louisiana is examining the option to change that narrative.[3]
In 1925, Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament founded Xavier to create a more just and humane society for all. Today, the institution holds true to this mission. A School of Medicine and Health Sciences at Xavier will advance that mission as the university guides and nurtures students from their undergraduate studies to their selected graduate programs. In addition to being recognized for providing a quality, affordable education for all, Xavier is poised as the catalyst for change and to address needs of the local and national community.
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https://www.bizneworleans.com/xavier-plans-graduate-school-of-health-sciences-medical-school/
| 2022-04-22T08:21:13Z
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HONOLULU (KITV4)- The American Lung Association released its 2022 State of the Air report with information on Hawaii's air quality and the impacts on the health of residents.
Honolulu is ranked #3 in the top 25 cleanest cities in the country, and officials at the American Lung Association credit both the success to the island's trade winds and the increase of residents switching over to electric cars.
The State of the Air Report is the American Lung Association's air quality report card, which uses the most up-to-date air pollution data from the US Environmental Protection Agency and focuses on the two most prominent types of pollution: ozone, also known as smog, and particle pollution, known as soot and for Hawaii, "vog".
Jenny Griswold, a longtime resident on Oahu, says she suffers from the vog blown in from the Big Island. She says her symptoms are eye irritation, breathing difficulties, and sinus flare ups.
"My first symptom was my teeth hurting, like I thought I needed a root canal. I went to the dentist and they said there’s nothing wrong with your teeth, your sinuses are so inflamed, they're crushing the roots of our teeth," said Griswold.
She says she uses V-maps to monitor vog movements and plumes blown onto Honolulu. She recommends everyone on the islands to do the same.
The 2022 report finds that Honolulu County received an 'A' rating in both ozone and particle pollution. However, Hawaii County on the Big Island received an F in 24-hour particle pollution, most of it which came from particles from the volcano.
"Hawaii County is still facing some of the repercussions that we saw several years ago from the eruptions from the volcano. We are seeing in 2022, the emissions in the air the particles have definitely decreased from previous years. It is not where we want it to be but it is improving,” said Pedro Haro, Executive Director of American Lung Association.
Do you have a story idea? Email news tips to news@kitv.com
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https://www.kitv.com/multimedia/honolulu-ranked-in-top-25-cleanest-cities-for-air-pollution/article_1cc48f5c-c1f6-11ec-a2da-5b560dbc59cb.html
| 2022-04-22T08:30:43Z
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HONOLULU (KITV4) - After more than two years, Chie Nagai is thrilled to finally be back in the place she loves.
The Japanese hula teacher said she used to visit several times a year before the pandemic.
"Finally I come to Hawaii, so happy, so exciting," she said. "I love hula, so I love Hawaii."
And that love translates into spending.
Nagai said she's already bought more than $1,000 in gifts to take back home.
"A lot of omiyage," Nagai said. "This time I bought so many, many, many souvenirs."
Tourism leaders are expecting hundreds of Japanese visitors starting next week -- Golden Week -- a major travel holiday season in Japan.
"Oh, it's gonna be great. It's a boost. You know, it's kind of like we're catching the first wave. We know there'll be more to come," said Sam Shenkus, Vice President and Director of Marketing for the Royal Hawaiian Center. "But we are thrilled that the Japanese are going to start coming in."
The Japanese are among the highest-spending tourists.
That's partly because of their cultural practice of buying omiyage -- or gifts.
Before the pandemic, back in February 2019, Japanese tourists spent $165.5 million. This past February, they spent a little more than $8 million.
"You buy gifts to take back -- your aunty, your children, your neighbors. So for the Japanese visitor that will shop and buy 30, buy 40 of something compared to you and me that might by three," Shenkus said. "So for a lot of our merchants and a lot of the lifestyle retailers, you can't replace omiyage."
For Honolulu Cookie Company, it's a major step forward in the economic recovery.
"Who would've ever thought it would take this long for this recovery and I think you know we're not in the complete recovery but I think anytime you see a bump forward, it's an important step," said Julie Plant, vice president of retail at Honolulu Cookie Company.
Airlines are adding more flights from Japan. And tour companies are resuming sales of packages to Hawaii, after a more than two-year hiatus.
Today, there were more than 340 Japanese visitors -- the highest daily arrival since March 2020.
The real boom in Japanese tourists is expected in the summer. That's when thousands are anticipated to once again visit the islands.
Kristen joined KITV4 in March 2021 after working for the past two decades as a newspaper reporter. Kristen's goal is to produce meaningful journalism that educates, enlightens and inspires to affect positive change in society.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/boost-in-japanese-tourists-expected-next-week-as-golden-week-holiday-begins/article_718ab2ea-c1f2-11ec-aef6-c74f7ba6de63.html
| 2022-04-22T08:30:49Z
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/power-outage-reported-over-parts-of-wheeler-army-airfield-in-wahiawa-update/article_8c0b614c-c1bf-11ec-b263-67044146095c.html
| 2022-04-22T08:30:55Z
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The state plans to spend $15 million to install facial recognition cameras on departure gates at the Daniel K Inouye International Airport, a project aimed at speeding up the screening process for international travelers.
The cameras will be similar to the ones Customs and Border Protection uses to scan international travelers arriving at the airport. Travelers pause for a photo at an inspection point, then the system compares that picture to a gallery of images travelers already provided to the government to confirm their identity and information.
"It is about simplifying the process, trying to make it as quickly and painless as you can for folks that are traveling," Dept. of Transportation Public Information Officer Jai Cunningham said, adding the effort comes as international travelers are expected to flock to the islands as COVID restrictions are loosened.
The idea, however, did not sit right with some passengers.
"It's just a bit of an invasion of privacy," said Natalia Woods, who was leaving Honolulu Thursday for Vegas.
Randy Kish, also leaving Honolulu Thursday, agreed and asked "is this going to speed up an extra two minutes or an hour, and what do we lose from a privacy standpoint?"
Customs reported that it has strong measures in place to protect travelers' information, such as deleting the new photos taken with the cameras within 12 hours.
Funding for the project will come from the fees airlines pay to use gates at the airport.
The state also plans to repurpose some of the cameras and other equipment it installed at the airport to help prevent COVID spread.
"The tracking cameras can be used for security purposes. The thermal cameras can really only be used for thermal, as far as figuring out if you have a fever or not, that's really all it can be used for," Cunningham explained.
"But the good news is, the conduit, all of the different fiber cable that was run out there, that gets to be reused and repurposed."
The Dept. of Transportation plans to start installing the cameras in June and complete the project by September 2023.
'A'ali'i is a reporter with KITV. He was born and raised on the island of Maui and graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor's degree in Journalism.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/state-to-use-facial-recognition-at-honolulu-airport-to-speed-up-travel-time-for-international/article_176dbd70-c1de-11ec-bc45-83287326a416.html
| 2022-04-22T08:31:01Z
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"It's just heart wrenching and it's so heartbreaking," explained Kuulei Lincoln, Michelle's best friend of 15 years. "I cannot imagine our own child doing something like that. For this to happen to her like that from her son, I just cannot believe it."
Lincoln says Joshua is Michelle's oldest son, and he and his brother had a history of giving their mom a tough time.
"She always tried her best to make them happy, or be there for them like a mother would," Lincoln explained. "She put him in youth challenge to try and help him get him on track. He graduated from youth challenge. And then, this is what happens."
Aside from being a mother, Michelle is also remembered for being talented, humble, and loving.
"She always was so friendly, always loving other people. Always wanting to have smiles on her face and making her kids happy. That's the way she would want to be remembered."
Lincoln said she's worried about what's next for Michelle's other children.
"She's got five more babies that are in high school, intermediate, and elementary," explained Lincoln. "Three in elementary you know, and they were so close to their mom. Just fly high with the angels. You truly will be missed."
Joshua McPeek remains in custody.
His bail is set at $1 million.
Do you have a story idea? Email news tips to news@kitv.com
Mika is the co-anchor for KITV4 Island News at 5, 6, and 10 p.m.
Since joining KITV4 in 2016, Mika has also served as a multimedia journalist, weather, and traffic anchor.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/mother-killed-by-son-in-makaha-remembered-as-a-loving-mom-friend/article_798cba5e-c20d-11ec-9461-c3972063beb5.html
| 2022-04-22T08:31:07Z
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Florida's legislature passed a bill Thursday that would eliminate the special legal setup that allows Disney to operate as an independent government around its Orlando-area theme parks.
The move comes as Florida's Republican-led government has taken aim at Disney -- the largest single-site employer in the state -- for its opposition to a law restricting education on LGBTQ issues in schools.
Yet the elimination of Disney's special purpose district, known as Reedy Creek, could have much further implications for the company and for state taxpayers. Here's a look at the history of Reedy Creek, why it has become a focus in this special session, and what removing its special status would mean for Disney and for Florida taxpayers.
What is Reedy Creek?
Reedy Creek is the name for the Reedy Creek Improvement District, a special purpose district created by state law in May 1967 that gives The Walt Disney Company governmental control over the land in and around its central Florida theme parks. The district sits southwest of Orlando.
At the time, the land was little more than uninhabited pasture and swamp, according to Reedy Creek's website. With the special purpose district, Disney took over responsibility for providing municipal services like power, water, roads and fire protection -- but were also freed from dealing with legal red tape or paying taxes for services that benefited the broader public.
According to Richard Foglesong, the author of the book "Married to the Mouse: Walt Disney World and Orlando," Disney had previously had issues with the government of Anaheim, California, at its Disneyland park, completed a decade earlier. With those issues in mind, Disney pushed for a special purpose district in Florida that would give the company the ability to self-govern.
In exchange, Florida became the home base for Disney World and its millions of tourists.
"Florida needed Disney more than Disney needed Florida," Foglesong told CNN.
Today, the Reedy Creek special district encompasses about 25,000 acres in Orange and Osceola counties, including four theme parks, two water parks, one sports complex, 175 lane miles of roadway, 67 miles of waterway, and the cities of Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, its website says.
"The cooperation and commitment between the Reedy Creek Improvement District and Walt Disney World Company is as strong today as it was when the District was created in 1967," the Reedy Creek website states. "The result is an example of how a working partnership between business and government can be prosperous for both sides."
Why is this an issue now?
The bill passed by Florida's legislature is a form of political retaliation against Disney for its criticism of the "Parental Rights in Education" bill, which critics have termed the "Don't Say Gay" bill.
That state legislation, signed into law last month, prohibits schools from teaching children about sexual orientation or gender identity "in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate." The legislation also allows parents to bring lawsuits against a school district for potential violations.
The law's vague language and the threat of parental lawsuits have raised fears that it will lead to discrimination against LGBTQ students and will have a chilling effect on classroom discussion. Gov. Ron DeSantis' spokesperson Christina Pushaw, however, said the legislation would protect kids from "groomers," a slang term for pedophiles, and described those who oppose the law as "probably groomers."
The CEO of Disney, which employs 75,000 people in Florida, initially declined to condemn the law but reversed course after facing employee criticism. A company spokesperson released a statement last month stating its goal is for the law to be repealed by the legislature or struck down in the courts.
"Florida's HB 1557, also known as the 'Don't Say Gay' bill, should never have passed and should never have been signed into law," the statement said. The company said it was "dedicated to standing up for the rights and safety of LGBTQ+ members of the Disney family, as well as the LGBTQ+ community in Florida and across the country."
Earlier this week, DeSantis challenged lawmakers to unravel the 55-year-old Reedy Creek Improvement Act as part of a special legislative session. Disney has not issued a statement about the issue.
What does the bill do?
The bill declares that any special district created before November 1968 will be dissolved on June 1, 2023. The text is just over a page in length and offers few details.
What that means for Disney and for Florida taxpayers is not entirely clear. Republican sponsors were unable to give detailed answers to questions about financial and legal implications of the legislation during floor discussions Thursday. They suggested that the legislature could work through logistics of the dissolution over the next year.
The dissolution of the special district would mean that Orange and Osceola counties take on the assets and liabilities of Reedy Creek. That could lead to higher taxes for those residents to pay off Reedy Creek's debts and take over the care of roads, policing, fire protection, waste management and more.
State Sen. Gary Farmer, a Democrat, was one of a number of Democratic lawmakers who criticized the bill for what he called "shoot first, ask questions later."
"The debt service alone for Reedy Creek is over a billion dollars," Farmer said Wednesday. "This bill makes no provision as to how that debt service is going to be assumed. Local government entities must pick up assets and liabilities of any special district that is dissolved."
Still, the bill passed the Florida Senate on Wednesday by a 23-16 vote and the House on Thursday by a 70-38 vote. It now goes to DeSantis' desk for his signature. Thursday's vote occurred without any final debate and came as several Black Democratic members were staging a protest over the congressional redistricting map.
For his part, Foglesong said the length of the bill indicated there "hasn't been much study and reflection" on the consequences of this move.
"Somebody is still going to have to pay for the bonds that were purchased in order to build that infrastructure. A lot of roadways. Someone is going to have to do those building inspections. It'll take a lot of those inspectors with a lot of expertise," he said. "Someone is going to have to pay for that. If that burden falls on taxpayers, that's not going to look good for Gov. Desantis. This is going to look like folly."
The-CNN-Wire
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https://www.kitv.com/news/national/why-disney-has-its-own-government-in-florida-and-what-happens-if-that-goes-away/article_bb5b5189-14a3-552f-a326-0fa8b2c91327.html
| 2022-04-22T08:31:13Z
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Although some eyeballs will be at the Stan Sheriff center for the Big West Men's Volleyball Championships, for the first time in nearly three years, the ring will be king in Hawaii.
Mixed martial arts is back on O'ahu.
Bellator 278 and 279 mark the return of professional fighting back to Hawaii with plenty of local firepower including a former champ who's out to prove she ain't done yet.
"I just realized I love this way too much to give it up so easily," Ilima-Lei Macfarlane said. "I'm just excited to get back in there. I want to show everybody that you might have some setbacks in life, but it's how you respond to them that determines who you are...And being in Hawaii, it makes everything that much better."
Along with Macfarlane in Saturday night's flyweight bout, this weekend's fights will feature nine local fighters from the aloha state: Makoa cooper, Scotty Hao, Nainoa Dung, Kai Kamaka III, Yancy Medeiros, Keoni Diggs, Ryan Dela Cruz and Sumiko Inaba.
For Ewa Beach native Kamaka, the opportunity to fight with his fellow local boys is a long-awaited honor.
"I take lots of pride in that," Kamaka III said. "That's what I wanted as a little kid is to be one of the best in the world. But I don't want to be a hometown hero, I want to be a household name."
"I'm just trying to give back to my friends, family and fans. I haven't fought here ever since I started fighting out of Hawaii. I always wanted to come back and give back to the fans," Yancy Medeiros said. "We can definitely have a good fight April 23rd, because I'm going to show all of my aloha"
Along from the local talent, multiple Bellator championships will be decided on Friday and Saturday night, including the women's flyweight title between champion Juliana Velasquez and Liz Carmouche–a veteran looking to hand the champ her first career loss.
"I think everyone talks about her being a black belt in judo," Carmouche said. "That's honestly the most challenging thing, but at the same time, if the ground's where she wants to go, I'd love to show her what the ground looks like with me."
Bellator 278 begins on Friday at the Neil Blaisdell Center at 3 p.m. HT or you an watch live on Youtube for the preliminary card, and then 4 p.m. on Friday, 4:30 p.m. on Saturday for the main cards pay-per-view on Showtime.
Special note: Bellator president Scott Coker, comes from a military family. He grew up in Korea and loved the military events he would attend as a kid so in return Bellator 278 will be free for current military personnel, veterans and first responders.
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https://www.kitv.com/sports/bellator-278-279-mark-return-of-mma-local-fighters-to-hawaii/article_1c33d93e-c201-11ec-a037-83329e8d1551.html
| 2022-04-22T08:31:19Z
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Former Christian school teacher to serve no time for sexual relationship with student
CHESTERFIELD Co., Va. (WWBT) - A former teacher at Richmond Christian School will serve no time behind bars after being convicted of having a sexual relationship with a student.
Tara Drooker was charged after having an inappropriate relationship with a juvenile female student that began in 2017 and continued over the years.
Drooker was originally charged with four counts of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian. But as part of a plea agreement, Drooker pleaded guilty to one count of misdemeanor sexual battery and three misdemeanor counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor by engaging in consensual sex.
As part of the plea agreement, she was sentenced to four consecutive 12-month terms in jail, with all of the time suspended.
Copyright 2022 WWBT. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/04/20/former-christian-school-teacher-serve-no-time-sexual-relationship-with-student/
| 2022-04-22T09:10:02Z
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Biden’s election year challenge: Blame GOP for nation’s woes
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has an election-year message for frustrated voters: At least he’s trying.
For those who think he isn’t doing enough to help Ukraine fend off the Russian invasion, Biden announced $800 million in new military support on Thursday. To ease the pain of high gas prices, he’s tapped the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and reopened onshore sales of oil and natural gas leases on public land. And to address historic inflation, Biden has tried to smooth out supply chain-crimping bottlenecks at the nation’s ports.
The president hopes the moves, which are being announced in near-daily rollouts and in a stepped up travel schedule, will present a contrast with Republicans — who, he argues, spend more time complaining about problems than proposing solutions.
“I mean this sincerely — name me something the national Republican Party is for,” Biden said at a recent Democratic National Committee meeting.
But it’s not clear he’s attracting much support. A new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds just 45% of Americans approve and 54% disapprove of how Biden is handling the presidency. The approval rate in the poll taken from April 14-18 is about the same as last month, but down from the president’s 63% approval rating a year ago.
There are bright spots for Biden. Applications for unemployment benefits have fallen to the lowest levels in decades and wages are rising. The economy is growing after the pandemic-induced doldrums.
Still, with crime rates rising in some parts of the country and inflation at its highest levels since 1981, these don’t feel like boom times to many. Seventy percent of Americans call the nation’s economy poor. Further, just 33% say they approve and 66% say they disapprove of Biden’s handling of the economy, with about a third of Democrats, along with almost all Republicans, disapproving.
Primary elections that begin next month will help show whether Democrats are embracing Biden’s vision of a moderate party that counters the increasingly far-right GOP.
In Ohio, Rep. Tim Ryan is well positioned to win the Democratic nomination for an open Senate seat with a message appealing to centrist, blue collar workers that is in line with Biden’s overall approach. But in the president’s native state of Pennsylvania, moderate Conor Lamb could be in a tight Senate primary against the more progressive John Fetterman.
Biden has suggested that one way to address his political challenges is to get on the road and make the case directly to voters about the impact of his administration’s policies. He has increased his domestic travel lately to promote a $1 trillion, bipartisan infrastructure package that cleared Congress last fall. Biden has visited Iowa, North Carolina, New Hampshire and Oregon since last week, and is in Seattle on Friday.
But some top Democrats running for office aren’t clamoring for the president’s help. Former Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke says he has no interest in national Democratic figures visiting his state as he now runs for governor. Florida Rep. Val Demings, as she campaigns for Senate, was non-comital about Biden’s help, as was Ryan.
“My philosophy is like: I’m running. I’m the candidate. I don’t need any validators,” Ryan said at the Knox County Democratic Party office in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Nearby stood cardboard cutouts of Obama and Hillary Clinton. There wasn’t one of Biden, though there was a campaign sign bearing his name outside.
Asked if appearing with Biden could be damaging, Ryan was unusually blunt.
“I don’t know,” he said. “I really don’t.”
Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris nevertheless plan on boosting U.S. trips in coming weeks, as well as stepping up their fundraising on behalf of the Democratic Party, according to administration officials and allies. But most of their activity is likely to take place in the late summer and early fall — after primaries are concluded and as voters will have their choice at the ballot box laid out for them.
Some in the administration have pressed for Biden and Democrats to draw a stronger contrast with Republicans, for instance arguing that the president should be more forcefully highlight a new study that Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott’s decision to introduce redundant inspections on truck travel cost the U.S. economy $9 billion in 10 days.
At a Thursday Democratic fundraiser at a yacht club in Portland, Oregon, Biden predicted that Democrats would add two seats in November to secure a 52-48 Senate majority.
“The far right’s taken over that party,” he said of Republicans. “And it’s not even conservative in a traditional sense of conservatism. It’s mean. It’s ugly.”
But trying to blame the other side amid mounting problems can have its limitations. Democrat Terry McAuliffe attempted to make last year’s Virginia governor’s race a referendum on the dangers of modern day GOP — even branding Republican opponent Glenn Youngkin “Trump in a sweater vest.” McAuliffe lost in a state Biden had carried by 10 points barely a year earlier.
Some who would otherwise be the White House’s fiercest allies say it’ll be up to Biden to energize voters ahead of November — regardless of what Republicans do.
“He’s not an effective communicator,” said Wes Bellamy, founder of Our Black Party, which advocates for issues to strengthen African American communities.
The president “speaks in a tone that doesn’t really resonate with much of his base and I don’t think they do a good enough job of being active on the ground,” Bellamy said.
Adding to the challenge is the fact that, when the president addresses one problem, he may prompt another. Some of what the administration has done to tame prices at the pump, for instance, run counter to Biden’s promises about combating climate change — especially after his signature social spending bill, “Build Back Better,” collapsed in Congress.
“His midterm strategy with respect to the environment is pretty underwhelming and not likely to work,” said Brett Hartl, chief political strategist at the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund.
Hartl said Americans, particularly young ones who backed Biden in 2020 thinking he’d help make the country dramatically greener, are now disillusioned with “a really steady trail of defeats on the climate crisis.”
White House press secretary Jen Psaki suggested Biden may help Democrats avoid a Republican midterm romp by evoking the phrase “Don’t compare me to the Almighty, compare me to the alternative.” That’s something Biden said frequently as vice president and while campaigning for the White House in 2020.
“Really, if you look at the other side, they have nothing in the cupboard. They have no plan,” Psaki said during a recent event for “Pod Save America.” “We could be saying that more.”
___
Associated Press writers Jill Colvin in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and Josh Boak in Portland, Oregon, contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/bidens-election-year-challenge-blame-gop-nations-woes/
| 2022-04-22T09:24:49Z
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Report: Fire training, equipment lacking at US nuclear dump
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The U.S. government’s nuclear waste repository in New Mexico has major issues in fire training and firefighting vehicles, with its fleet in disrepair after years of neglect, according to an investigation by the U.S. Energy Department’s Office of Inspector General.
The investigation was spurred by allegations regarding fire protection concerns at the repository, which is the backbone of a multibillion-dollar effort to clean up Cold War-era waste from past nuclear research and bomb making at national laboratories and defense sites across the U.S.
Investigators noted that the issues with the fire department training program went back to at least 2016. They pointed to an undeveloped training curriculum for the technical rescue program and claims by firefighters that their training needs weren’t being met.
According to the inspector general’s report, the issues persisted because the contractor that manages the repository inadequately addressed and closed recommendations from prior internal assessments that were aimed at fixing the deficiencies. The report also blamed inadequate oversight by Energy Department officials.
“WIPP has experienced growth with the number of buildings and employees since 2006 and is anticipated to operate beyond 2050. The next management and operating contractor must be able to provide effective emergency response at WIPP to protect lives, property and the environment,” the Office of Inspector General stated.
Energy Department officials in a response to the inspector general said the agency has followed through with corrective actions and will continue to “‘make progress on ensuring local fire departments and first responders have all necessary training and equipment to handle any event in relation to WIPP’s operations.”
Still, agency officials acknowledged there was more work to do.
The safety concerns come as New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and others voice opposition to expanding the types of radioactive waste that can be shipped to the repository. In a letter sent this month to U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, the first-term Democratic governor noted ongoing frustration regarding the lack of meaningful public engagement from federal officials on waste cleanup, shipments and long-term plans for the repository.
Just this month, the work of processing incoming waste shipments was temporarily halted after workers discovered radioactive liquid in a container sent from the Idaho National Laboratory.
The latest report from a federal oversight board also cited three recent incidents, including one in which a container from Los Alamos National Laboratory was placed underground without adequate analysis for its flammability. The container ended up posing no risk.
Nuclear Waste Partnership, the contractor that manages the repository, expanded its fire brigade to a department with full-time emergency responders following two emergencies in 2014. One was a fire involving a salt-hauling truck that was followed days later by a radiation release from a drum that had been inappropriately packed at Los Alamos.
The incidents prompted major policy and procedure overhauls related to the national cleanup program.
According to the inspector general, a 2019 review found that nearly half of the repository’s firefighters had not participated in required live training for at least one year and that some had not participated in over two years. Another review in April 2021 found that not all firefighter training records were maintained in accordance with the hazardous waste permit issued by the state Environment Department.
In interviews, several firefighters told investigators that the majority of training was web-based as opposed to hands-on fire drills, vehicle extrications or rope training. The firefighters expressed concern that without adequate training, they would lose their skills.
As for the fire department’s fleet, federal officials said they were in the process of revising maintenance procedures and that about $1.2 million was spent to purchase two new fire trucks in 2021.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/report-fire-training-equipment-lacking-us-nuclear-dump/
| 2022-04-22T09:24:56Z
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Biden order aims to protect old-growth forests from wildfire
SEATTLE (AP) — President Joe Biden is taking steps to restore national forests that have been devastated by wildfires, drought and blight, using an Earth Day visit to Seattle to sign an executive order protecting some of the nation’s largest and oldest trees.
Old-growth trees are key buffers against climate change and provide crucial carbon sinks that absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
Biden’s order directs federal land managers to define and inventory mature and old-growth forests nationwide within a year. The order requires the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service to identify threats to older trees, such as wildfire and climate change, and develop policies to safeguard them.
The order does not ban logging of mature or old-growth trees, the White House said.
By signing the order on Friday, Biden can publicly reassert his environmentalist credentials at a time when his administration has been preoccupied by high oil and gasoline prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Gas costs have been a drag on Biden’s popularity and created short-term political pressures going into this year’s midterm elections, yet the Democratic president has been focused on wildfires that are intensifying because of climate change.
The measure is intended to safeguard national forests that been severely damaged by wildfires, drought and blight, including recent fires that killed thousands of giant sequoias in California. Redwood forests are among the world’s most efficient at removing and storing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and provide critical habitat for native wildlife and watersheds that supply farms and communities in the West.
Blazes so intense to kill trees once considered virtually fire-proof have alarmed land managers, environmentalists and tree lovers the world over — and demonstrated the grave impacts of climate change. A warming planet that has created longer and hotter droughts, combined with a century of fire suppression that choked forests with thick undergrowth, has fueled flames that extinguished trees dating to ancient civilizations.
A senior administration official noted that forests absorb more than 10% of U.S. annual greenhouse gases, while also providing flood control, clean water, clear air and a home to wildlife. The official insisted on anonymity to discuss details of Biden’s order before it was made public.
Biden’s ambitious climate agenda has been marred by setbacks, a year after he took office amid a flurry of climate-related promises. The president hosted a virtual summit on global warming at the White House last Earth Day. He used the moment to nearly double the United States’ goal for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, vaulting the country to the front lines in the fight against climate change.
A year later, his most sweeping proposals remain stalled on Capitol Hill despite renewed warnings from scientists that the world is hurtling toward a dangerous future marked by extreme heat, drought and weather.
In addition, Russia’s war in Ukraine has reshuffled the politics of climate change, leading Biden to release oil from the nation’s strategic reserve and encourage more domestic drilling in hopes of lowering sky-high gas prices that are emptying American wallets.
While Biden is raising fuel economy standards for vehicles and included green policies in last year’s bipartisan infrastructure law, the lack of greater progress casts a shadow over his second Earth Day as president.
Timber industry representative Nick Smith said before the order was made public that loggers are worried it will add more bureaucracy to a forest management framework already unable to keep up with growing wildfires due to climate change.
That would undercut the Biden administration’s goal of doubling the amount of logging and controlled burns over the next decade to thin forests in the tinder-dry West, said Smith, a spokesman for the American Forest Resource Council, an Oregon-based industry group.
“The federal government has an urgent need to reduce massive greenhouse gas emissions from severe wildfires, which can only be accomplished by actively managing our unhealthy and overstocked federal forests,” he said.
But former U.S. Forest Service Deputy Chief Jim Furnish said wildfire risks and climate change would be better addressed by removing smaller trees that can fuel uncontrolled blazes, while leaving mature trees in place.
For many years the Forest Service allowed older trees that are worth more to be logged, to bring in money for removal of smaller trees, Furnish said. But that’s no longer necessary after Congress approved more than $5 billion to reduce wildfire risks in last year’s infrastructure bill, he said. The law includes money to hire 1,500 firefighters and ensure they earn at least $15 an hour.
Timber sales from federal forests nationwide more than doubled over the past 20 years, as Republicans and Democrats have pushed more aggressive thinning of stands to reduce small trees and vegetation that fuel wildfires.
Critics, including many forest scientists, say officials are allowing removal of too many older trees that can withstand fire.
A letter signed by 135 scientists called on Biden to protect mature and old-growth forests as a critical climate solution.
“Older forests provide the most above-ground carbon storage potential on Earth, with mature forests and larger trees driving most accumulation of forest carbon in the critical next few decades. Left vulnerable to logging, though, they cannot fulfill these vital functions,’’ the scientists wrote Thursday. Former Forest Service Chief Mike Dombeck and Norman Christensen, founding dean and professor emeritus at Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment, were among those signing the letter.
Protecting mature forests also “would set an important, highly visible example for other major forest-holding nations to follow as they address climate change threats,’’ the scientists wrote.
___
Associated Press writer Matthew Brown in Billings, Montana, contributed to this story.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/biden-order-aims-protect-old-growth-forests-wildfire/
| 2022-04-22T10:57:04Z
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Pope clears schedule for medical checks on painful knee
ROME (AP) — Pope Francis has cleared his schedule to undergo medical checks on his right knee. Strained ligaments have made walking, standing and getting up from his chair increasingly difficult and painful.
Francis’ mobility has been greatly curtailed of late, with his already pronounced limp from sciatica seemingly aggravated.
He had to bow out celebrating the Easter Vigil last weekend, struggled through Easter Sunday Mass and now frequently walks with a shuffle and the assistance of an aide.
The Vatican spokesman said Friday that Francis was undergoing medical checks within the city state, not at an external hospital. Francis has long undergone regular sessions of physiotherapy to help with the sciatica nerve pain.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/pope-clears-schedule-medical-checks-painful-knee/
| 2022-04-22T10:57:11Z
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Portugal identifies suspect in probe of missing British girl
LISBON, Portugal (AP) — Prosecutors in southern Portugal are formally accusing a suspect in the investigation into the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, a British girl who disappeared nearly 15 years ago while on a family vacation in the southern European country.
A statement on Thursday by the Public Ministry district of Faro, the largest city in Portugal’s Algarve region, did not name the suspect but said they were acting on a request by German authorities and in coordination with English investigators.
In mid-2020, Germany’s police identified Christian Brueckner, a German citizen, as a suspect in the case.
McCann was 3 years old at the time of her disappearance from an apartment where her family was vacationing in the Algarve seaside town of Praia da Luz.
Brueckner, 45, is serving a sentence on drug offenses in a German prison and has a pending seven-year sentence for the 2005 rape of a 72-year-old American woman in Portugal. The rape also took place in Praia da Luz.
Brueckner has denied any involvement in Madeleine’s disappearance.
Investigators in the nearby town of Portimao are leading the probe with the assistance of the Judiciary Police, the prosecutors’ statement said.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/portugal-identifies-suspect-probe-missing-british-girl/
| 2022-04-22T10:57:17Z
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HONOLULU--A House Special Committee wrapped up its investigation into state Rep. Sharon Har. They found that the Representative did not abuse her official position during a DUI arrest in 2021.
Representatives noted that Har never boasted on tape. "Do you know who I am?" as rumored.
Har herself said that the allegation was spread by local media.
Colleagues determined Representative Har did not violate the Legislative code of conduct in regards to misuse of "prestige of public office." But other House members asked why Har told officers she did not take medication, but later told the House otherwise.
"The representative denied that she had taken any prescription medication. So for me that raises if she was not truthful with the officers why not? and if she was not truthful with us, why not?," asked Representative Amy Perusso.
Perusso and others also discussed Legislative code of conduct rule 61.1 requiring representatives to act "in a manner that promotes public confidence."
Representative Scot Matayoshi took issue with "the fact that she had a persistent long term cough and she had it week prior to this incident but she decided to go into an indoor establishment to eat and drink," he said, noting that the incident occurred in January 2021 mid-pandemic.
The committee decided not to censure Har or require further apology.
"Rep Har did comply with the officers. She was polite. And very apologetic the entire time," Rep. Lauren Matsumoto said.
The special committee agreed Har will be required to inform the House in writing about the process of reclaiming her driver's license, which was suspended for two years for the refusal to take a field sobriety test.
Har was detained after driving the wrong way on Berentania.
Committee Chair Della Au Belatti also noted, "This matter is going to have to be considered by the whole body and voted upon. So this is not over."
Do you have a story idea? Email news tips to news@kitv.com
Jeremy Lee joined KITV after over a decade & a half in broadcast news from coast to coast on the mainland. Jeremy most recently traveled the country documenting protests & civil unrest.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/committee-finds-rep-sharon-har-did-not-abuse-office/article_b7dfaeca-c216-11ec-bf95-5fc94193fda6.html
| 2022-04-22T11:11:06Z
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The Honolulu Medical Examiner's office reported about 200 drug-related deaths last year in Honolulu, a five-year high fueled by methamphetamine overdoses.
In response to the community needs for treatment, a $2.2 million grant was awarded to The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and Leeward Community College to train substance abuse counselors.
The grant will train 88 students over the next four years, at no cost to students.
Becky Harrison knows all too well how hard it to recover from a drug addiction. At 19–years old she became addicted to heroin. Her parents sent her to Habilitat in Kaneohe when she was 23.
“I learned to make quality friendships that help you do better and to have a work ethic and get to work on time, do your best and stay late. And do whatever it takes to get the job done. All the things now I teach the residents who are here now,"Harrison says.
23 years later, Becky today counsels those struggling with substance abuse.
At Habilitat, out of the 33 staff members, 30 are former addicts. Since the pandemic, Habilitat has seen an increase in people using drugs and seeking help. Becky says there is a huge need for more substance abuse counselors Now more than ever.
“Having gone through drug addiction and coming out the other end. And also having a degree, and teaching people, it really makes a difference rather than just having an education. You did it so I can do it too.”
And because more substance abuse counselors are needed especially in the rural areas of Hawaii, the U.S. Health Resources & Service Administration awarded the $2.2 million dollar grant to UH and Leeward Community College students to train them in substance abuse counseling, treatment and after-care.
Seunghye Hong is a UH Sociology and Public Health Professor “Especially those who are from that community, so that they know the community and they are passionate about working with their ohana, friends, neighbors,” so this grant is designed by federal agencies, to train and educate from the community to serve their communities.
Cynthia is an award-winning journalist who returned to Hawaii as an Anchor/Reporter/MMJ from Houston. She is a graduate of the University of Hawaii with a B.A. and M.B.A. DM her on IG @CynthiaYipTV to share stories.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/local/2-2-million-grant-to-uh-manoa-will-fund-drug-abuse-counselor-education/article_71361e52-c1f6-11ec-b264-fb9ed464665d.html
| 2022-04-22T11:11:12Z
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"It's just heart wrenching and it's so heartbreaking," explained Kuulei Lincoln, Michelle's best friend of 15 years. "I cannot imagine our own child doing something like that. For this to happen to her like that from her son, I just cannot believe it."
Lincoln says Joshua is Michelle's oldest son, and he and his brother had a history of giving their mom a tough time.
"She always tried her best to make them happy, or be there for them like a mother would," Lincoln explained. "She put him in youth challenge to try and help him get him on track. He graduated from youth challenge. And then, this is what happens."
Aside from being a mother, Michelle is also remembered for being talented, humble, and loving.
"She always was so friendly, always loving other people. Always wanting to have smiles on her face and making her kids happy. That's the way she would want to be remembered."
Lincoln said she's worried about what's next for Michelle's other children.
"She's got five more babies that are in high school, intermediate, and elementary," explained Lincoln. "Three in elementary you know, and they were so close to their mom. Just fly high with the angels. You truly will be missed."
Joshua McPeek remains in custody.
His bail is set at $1 million.
Do you have a story idea? Email news tips to news@kitv.com
Mika is the co-anchor for KITV4 Island News at 5, 6, and 10 p.m.
Since joining KITV4 in 2016, Mika has also served as a multimedia journalist, weather, and traffic anchor.
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https://www.kitv.com/news/mother-allegedly-killed-by-son-in-makaha-remembered-as-a-loving-mom-friend/article_798cba5e-c20d-11ec-9461-c3972063beb5.html
| 2022-04-22T11:11:18Z
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https://www.kitv.com/weather/thursday-evening-weather-april-21-2022/article_ab350320-c214-11ec-b32c-db91583c8a45.html
| 2022-04-22T11:11:24Z
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An exceptional Earth Day is on tap
Dry conditions and highs in the 70s and low 80s are expected today
A gorgeous Earth Day is in store for us today as we will see partly cloudy skies this morning becoming mainly sunny this afternoon. High temperatures this afternoon will be above-normal for this time of year, topping off in the mid-70s to low 80s.
Tonight looks mainly clear and mild with lows in the 50s.
Saturday will bring similar conditions; plenty of sun and only a few clouds. Highs will be even warmer, in the upper 70s-mid 80s Saturday afternoon. We look mainly clear and mild again Saturday night with low temps in the 50s.
It will feel more like Summer than Spring yet again on Sunday! We’ll be mainly sunny with highs in the low to upper 80s for most. Some lower elevations could possibly push the 90-degree mark before the weekend is over!
We will start off warm next week, but a frontal system will bring the chance of rain back to the region on Monday night and into Tuesday. Temperatures will cool down behind that front going from above average to slightly below in the 50s by Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. Make sure to stay tuned and catch the latest on WVVA.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/an-exceptional-earth-day-is-tap/
| 2022-04-22T12:31:19Z
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Obama says disinformation erodes democracy
PALO ALTO, Calif. (CNN) - In a rare public appearance Thursday, former President Barack Obama said disinformation and conspiracy theories have led to the rise of strongmen like Vladimir Putin.
Obama warned that the foundation of democracy is at risk like never before.
“People like Putin, and Steve Bannon for that matter, understand it’s not necessary for people to believe this information in order to weaken democratic institutions. You just have to flood a country’s Public Square with enough raw sewage,” Obama said. “You just have to raise enough questions spread enough dirt. Plant enough conspiracy theorizing that citizens no longer know what to believe.”
Obama came to Stanford, the heart of Silicon Valley, Thursday with a warning about the threat that disinformation poses to American democracy – putting Putin and former Trump adviser Bannon in the same sentence and saying he underestimated in 2016 how powerful conspiracy theories had become.
“No one in my administration was surprised that Russia was attempting to meddle in our election,” he said. “What does still nag at me, though, was my failure to fully appreciate at the time just how susceptible we had become to lies and conspiracy theories.”
Those lies and conspiracy theories are still very much alive in the U.S.
“We just saw a sitting president deny the clear results of an election and help incite a violent insurrection at the nation’s Capitol,” Obama said. “Social media did not create racism or white supremacist groups. All these things existed long before the first tweet or Facebook Poke. Solving the disinformation problem won’t cure all that ails our democracies or tears at the fabric of our world. But it can help tamp down divisions and let us rebuild the trust and solidarity needed.”
Obama laid out how he believes social media algorithms designed to maximize engagement and keep people hooked are contributing to a crisis in democracy.
“Unfortunately, it turns out that inflammatory polarizing content attracts and engages. Other features of these platforms have compounded the problem, for example, the way content looks on your phone, as well as the veil of anonymity that platforms provide their users,” Obama said. “A lot of times can make it impossible to tell the difference between say a peer-reviewed article by Dr. Anthony Fauci and a miracle cure being pitched by a huckster. People are dying because of misinformation.”
Obama said it is time for social media companies to step up.
“Tech platforms need to accept that they play a unique role in how we as a people and people around the world are consuming information and that their decisions have an impact on every aspect of society. With that power comes accountability,” he said.
And the former president called for more transparency from these platforms, also speaking a little bit about how the U.S. government could possibly regulate big tech without going down the line of trying to censor speech in any way which, of course, would be against the First Amendment here in the United States.
Obama didn’t go into a lot of specifics about that very thorny issue of possible government regulation, but he is saying and he is trying to put all of this on the agenda, saying there needs to be a public debate about all of it, and it needs to happen urgently.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/obama-says-disinformation-erodes-democracy/
| 2022-04-22T12:31:25Z
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VIDEO: Junior college pitcher tackles batter; multiple players suspended
WEATHERFORD, Texas (AP) — A Texas junior college baseball conference has suspended a pitcher for four games after he tackled an opposing batter after a home run, and the batter also was suspended for two games because he was ejected for taunting.
The North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference announced Thursday it suspended both players and many more from both teams because of the resulting brawl.
Online video of the play showed North Central Texas College’s Josh Phillips rounding third after his sixth-inning home run, only to have Weatherford College pitcher Owen Woodward charge off the mound and level him with a violent blow to the midsection. Several players then charged on to the field.
Weatherford officials have said Woodward could face expulsion from school as the play caught widespread online attention.
But the league office handed out most of its punishment for the North Central Texas program because of the players who ran onto the field after the hit.
The league suspended for two games “all team members for NCTC that were in the dugout or bullpen” and any assistant coaches who stepped onto the field. It also suspended four additional Weatherford players and assistant coaches for two games.
If that leaves North Central Texas without enough players for its next two games against Weatherford, it will have to forfeit, the league said. Both teams were ordered to forfeit the game that was stopped.
The teams are scheduled to play each other this weekend.
“We are shocked and disappointed at what happened in our game today,” Weatherford coach Jeff Lightfoot said after the game. “We do not condone this type of behavior. We have worked hard to build a program with the highest of standards. We are completely embarrassed by this incident, and we apologize to North Central Texas College and the fans of WC baseball. This type of behavior cannot be tolerated.”
___
More AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/video-junior-college-pitcher-tackles-batter-multiple-players-suspended/
| 2022-04-22T12:31:34Z
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Oldest Texas death row inmate executed for officer’s death
HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) — Texas’ oldest death row inmate was executed Thursday for killing a Houston police officer during a traffic stop nearly 32 years ago.
Carl Wayne Buntion, 78, was executed at the state penitentiary in Huntsville. He was condemned for the June 1990 fatal shooting of Houston police officer James Irby, a nearly 20-year member of the force.
The U.S. Supreme Court had declined a request by Buntion’s attorneys to stop his execution.
“I wanted the Irby family to know one thing: I do have remorse for what I did,” Buntion said while strapped to the Texas death chamber gurney. “I pray to God that they get the closure for me killing their father and Ms. Irby’s husband.
“I hope to see you in heaven some day and when you show up I will give you a big hug.”
Buntion, joined by his spiritual adviser, began praying Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd...” as the lethal dose of the powerful sedative pentobarbital began. He took a deep breath, coughed once, then took three less pronounced breaths before all movement stopped.
He was pronounced dead at 6:39 p.m., 13 minutes later.
Several dozen motorcyclists, showing support for the slain motorcycle officer, loudly revved their engines as the execution took place, the roar clearly audible in the death chamber.
Buntion had been on parole for just six weeks when he shot the 37-year-old Irby. Buntion, who had an extensive criminal record, was a passenger in the car that Irby pulled over. In 2009, an appeals court vacated Buntion’s sentence, but another jury resentenced him to death three years later.
“I feel joy,” the officer’s widow, Maura Irby, said after watching Buntion’s execution. “I’m sorry someone died. But I didn’t think of him as a person. I just thought of him as a thing, as a cancer on the face of my family.”
Before his slaying, James Irby had talked of retirement and spending more time with his two children, who at the time were 1 and 3 years old, Maura Irby, 60, said earlier.
“He was ready to fill out the paperwork and stay home and open a feed store,” she said. “He wanted to be the dad that was there to go to all the ballgames and the father daughter dances. He was a super guy, the love of my life.”
Leading up to his execution, various state and federal courts had also turned down appeals by Buntion’s lawyers to stop his death sentence. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles on Tuesday had rejected his clemency request.
Buntion’s attorneys said he was responsible for Irby’s death and “deserved to be punished severely for that crime.”
But they argued his execution was unconstitutional because the jury’s finding he would be a future danger to society — one of the reasons he was given a death sentence— has proven incorrect, and also his execution would serve no legitimate purpose because so much time has passed since his conviction. His attorneys described Buntion as a geriatric inmate who posed no threat as he suffers from arthritis, vertigo and needed a wheelchair.
“This delay of three decades undermines the rationale for the death penalty ... Whatever deterrent effect there is diminished by delay,” his attorneys David Dow and Jeffrey Newberry, wrote in court documents.
With his execution, Buntion became the oldest person Texas has put to death since the Supreme Court lifted its ban on capital punishment in 1976. The oldest inmate executed in the U.S. in modern times was Walter Moody Jr., who was 83 years old when he was put to death in Alabama in 2018.
Buntion was also the first inmate executed in Texas in 2022. Although Texas has been the nation’s busiest capital punishment state, it had been nearly seven months since it carried out an execution. There have been only three executions in each of the last two years, due in part to the coronavirus pandemic and delays over legal questions about Texas’ refusal to allow spiritual advisers to touch inmates and pray aloud in the death chamber.
In March, the U.S. Supreme Court said states must accommodate requests to have faith leaders pray and touch inmates during executions.
As Texas prepared to execute Buntion, officials in Tennessee canceled the execution of an inmate Thursday in what would have been the state’s first execution since the start of the pandemic. Oscar Smith, 72, was scheduled to die for the 1989 killings of his estranged wife and her teenage sons. Republican Gov. Bill Lee didn’t elaborate on what issue forced the surprise 11th-hour stop to the planned execution.
Texas prison officials agreed to Buntion’s request to allow his spiritual adviser to pray aloud and touch him while he was put to death.
The adviser, Barry Brown, placed his right hand on Buntion’s right ankle in the moments before the drugs began flowing and prayed for about five minutes. He said Buntion no longer was the “hard-headed young man” but had been “humbled by the walls and cold steel of prison.”
While the execution stirred up painful memories for her, Irby said it also reminded her of her advocacy work in public safety after her husband’s death, including helping put together legislation that allowed victim impact statements at trials.
“I still miss him, 32 years later,” she said Thursday night.
___
Lozano reported from Houston.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/oldest-texas-death-row-inmate-executed-officers-death/
| 2022-04-22T14:01:34Z
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Redwood trees show signs of recovery after devastating 2020 fire
BOULDER CREEK, Calif. (KGO) - Thousands of acres of redwood trees in California’s Santa Cruz mountains are showing signs of life again.
It’s a sign of hope after the devastating 2020 CZU fire, which closed Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The fire raced across 97% of the 18,000 acres that make up the park.
It killed Douglas firs, live oaks and madrones, and charred the stately old-growth redwoods.
However, nearly two years later, nature is showing signs of resiliency.
Even after losing most of their leaves, the redwoods are growing a new canopy overhead. And down by their roots, they’re sending out new growth.
“They send out all of these new saplings along a trunk, so they stump sprout. Then these little guys will keep growing, competing with one another,” Laura McLendon said. “One or more may make it.”
McLendon is director of Sempervirens Fund, a land trust that partners with California state parks.
Inside Big Basin, they have planted thousands of redwood saplings in the hardest-hit zones.
But nature is hard at work, too.
“We’re going to continue to see many of these little saplings and shrubs get bigger, and you know, in as little as 20 years, most people won’t even be able to tell there was a catastrophic fire here,” McLendon said.
The famous auto tree, where visitors used to bring their vehicles and have a picture taken, looks dead. However, it is alive and a great example of how resilient redwood trees are.
Big Basin has gone from lush green to black and white after the fire. But it’s showing signs of a comeback.
Sempervirens Fund was also able to purchase this year 153 adjacent acres at the entrance to the park.
No announcement has been made about reopening Big Basin as work continues to fell trees that pose a safety risk. Support structures, fences and other facilities still need to be replaced.
Birds and some wildlife have returned home already. Yet the risk of future wildfires remains a threat.
If the forest is under too much stress, it could impede the regeneration process.
For now, nature, with a little help from humans, is moving forward.
Copyright 2022 KGO via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/redwood-trees-show-signs-recovery-after-devastating-2020-fire/
| 2022-04-22T14:01:41Z
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Social media scam nearly turns violent
DENVER (KMGH) - A woman is sharing her story after she became the victim of a scam.
It all started on Facebook and could have cost her family their lives.
It’s a moment that has left this family traumatized: A man they said they’ve never seen before, armed with two guns, came looking for a Jessica, showing up to their home Thursday.
The thing is, Jessice Otero Garcia said she never said those things he claimed, doesn’t know the man and doesn’t even live at that Denver home anymore. But her family does.
“He could have hurt my my aunt. He could have hurt my cousin. He could have shot one of them,” she said.
Omar Vargas, 20, was arrested shortly after, but how could this have happened?
In November, Garcia saw a post on Facebook from someone posing as an old middle school friend.
“She’s like, ‘Oh, yeah, I’m here. I’m giving away money to teen moms to help them out,’” she said.
Garcia, a young mom herself, said she was wary but reached out anyway, thinking it was her friend.
“They’re like, you know, what’s the best way to do this is through Bitcoin, through Cash app,” she said.
Garcia made the deposit before realizing she’d been scammed.
“So I’m like, ‘OK, I just got scammed for $150.’ I was like, ‘That’s fine. Whatever,’” she said.
But she’d be fooled again.
Garcia then got a message from Facebook asking for information to prove she owns the account. So she ended up providing her email, phone number and eventually her driver’s license.
Suddenly, she’s locked out.
“Then the next day, I get started getting messages from my family like, ‘Hey, what like, why are you posting this?’ And I was like, What are you guys talking about? Like, ‘No, you’re posting that you’re giving away money,’” Garcia said.
The scammer was using her profile to go after others.
Then Thursday came around.
“They’re traumatized. My family is traumatized. And we don’t know how we’re going to get through this,” Garcia said.
She said police told her that suspect was also part of the scam and came for his money.
Vargas is being charged for felony menacing with a weapon, police said.
As for the scammers, they’re probably looking for their next victim.
Copyright 2022 KMGH via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/04/22/social-media-scam-nearly-turns-violent/
| 2022-04-22T14:01:47Z
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You never would accuse Robert Eggers of being just another filmmaker.
He made the world take notice with his 2015 feature debut, the period horror film “The Witch,” which he followed up in 2019 with the psychological ordeal that was “The Lighthouse.”
Now comes his Viking movie.
In his director’s statement for “The Northman” – a largely stunning, often-offbeat movie that lands in U.S. theaters this week – Eggers talks of wanting to make “THE Viking movie. The definitive Viking movie.”
It’s quite a turnaround for him. To hear Eggers tell it, he wasn’t exactly spurred to action by his wife, who was convinced that if he made an effort, he, like she, would become interested in Icelandic sagas and Viking lore. Apparently, he was more or less “meh” about it. However, that changed after the pair visited Iceland in 2015, where he found himself imagining “solitary 10th-century figures on horseback” against the region’s almost unbelievable landscapes.
This newfound passion eventually led him to Alexander Skarsgard, the one-time “True Blood” actor who for years had been working to star in and produce a Viking movie.
Skarsgard turns in an impressive performance in a movie that is both beautiful and brutal. Its opening moments, in which thunder crashes around a mountain and a man with a gravelly voice addresses the Norse god Odin, are guttural and forceful and prove to be a microcosm of “The Northman.”
Based on the legend of Amleth, “The Northman” shares some major story beats with Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”
While Skarsgard portrays Prince Amleth as a man, it begins around 900 A.D. with a younger version played by Oscar Novak, who also was seen recently as young Bruce Wayne in “The Batman.” Amleth is excited for the return of his father, King Aurvandil (Ethan Hawke), to him and his mother, Queen Gudrun (Nicole Kidman), in the fictitious island kingdom of Hrafnsey, located somewhere around the Orkney and Shetland islands, near the top of present-day Great Britain.
Fearing he may not have much time left on this earth, Aurvandil concludes he must prepare Amleth for what lies ahead of him – including a duty to avenge his father’s future death. And thus we get a wild ritual shared by the two and orchestrated by the court jester and valued adviser to the king, Heimir the Fool (Willem Dafoe, one of Eggers’ “Lighthouse” stars), serving here as a shaman-like figure.
Soon, Aurvandil is killed, not by opposing forces but by his brother, Fjolnir (Claes Bang), who takes Hrafnsey – and Gudrun – for himself. He also orders his men to kill Amleth, but the boy is able to flee the area.
When we catch up with Amleth 20 years later, he is raiding Slavic villages with other Viking berserkers. At one brutality-laden stop, he encounters a seeress (Bjork), who reminds him of his fate and responsibility for vengeance. (Bjork – the brilliant Icelandic singer-songwriter, who hasn’t been seen on screen since 2005’s “Drawing Restraint 9,” is so musically enchanting with the delivery of her spoken words that you may not fully absorb them.)
Having learned his uncle has lost the kingdom to a greater force and now runs a farm in Iceland, Amleth disguises himself as a slave and boards a ship bound for the area. A real slave, Olga of the Birch Forest (“The Witch” star Anya Taylor-Joy), knows he is an imposter but stays quiet, the two forming a bond that will remain strong long after they arrive at the farm.
There, Amleth proves himself to be more capable than most slaves, impressing Fjolnir and Gudrun and gaining him certain privileges and responsibilities in the process. All the while, he schemes to avenge his father and rescue his mother and is willing to unleash a hellish new reality onto his unsuspecting uncle.
Eggers co-wrote “The Northman” with Icelandic poet, novelist, lyricist and screenwriter Sjon (“Lamb”), and they have crafted a story that, while relatively simple and familiar, is rich with detail. They have infused it with supernatural touches that, Eggers says, would be seen as realistic to the characters. (Well, maybe, but we won’t quibble.)
And many of its details come to glorious life thanks largely to director of photography Jarin Blaschke, who also worked on Eggers’ other features. Iceland, especially, looks incredible and dramatic – and not quite in the same way a 4K video of the country you may pull up on YouTube to show off your television does – but it’s the movie’s elaborate tracking shots that are most impressive. The aforementioned raid of Olga’s village clearly took high-level preparation, coordination and execution, and it’s captured magnificently.
In front of the camera, Skarsgard – who clearly put on muscle mass for the role and appears to have been in god-like shape – is a force. The singularly focused Amleth isn’t the most dynamic of characters, but the actor keeps you reasonably invested in his plight.
Kidman’s role is rather small – albeit greater than other high-profile players Hawke and Dafoe – but when the “Big Little Lies” co-stars finally share the screen again, deep into the film, we get some impactful minutes.
Bang, a Danish who played key parts in two 2020 arthouse films about art, “The Burnt Orange Heresy” and “The Last Vermeer,” is, well, rather artful in his portrayal of Fjolnir. That the character isn’t your typical villain also is a credit to Eggers and Sjon.
One of the disappointments of “The Northman” is that the scribes didn’t make Taylor-Joy’s role meatier. The talented star of “Emma” and “The Queen’s Gambit” makes the most of some key scenes, but the film simply would have been stronger with more of her.
Some may also be let down by the movie’s pacing; it has what could be considered an odd rhythm, and for all its action, it can be slow at times.
That said, “The Northman” is more accessible than “The Lighthouse” – and maybe “The Witch,” as well – and the hope here is it earns a wide audience.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/movie-review-robert-eggers-the-northman-is-a-violent-feast-for-the-senses/article_193e5467-bb50-5c2f-9a7c-41f9c4f44b8c.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:17Z
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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Country and alternative rock artist Orville Peck is joining an exclusive club of musicians that have been tapped to perform at both the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and its sister Stagecoach Country Music Festival back-to-back in Indio this month.
Crossing over and playing to the vastly different audiences each festival attracts is a feat only a few have accomplished, including Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam and The Avett Brothers. Country, soul and R&B artist Yola will also perform at both festivals this year.
“It’s a beautiful compliment and also it’s exciting,” Peck said during a recent interview. “I love that my music seems to be able to crossover not only music genres, but genres of people. We do notice the sheer diversity of people in the crowd at my shows, which has always been a beautiful and obvious point to us on tour. We bring together a bunch of different people that maybe wouldn’t be in the same room typically, so that’s a great feeling.”
Peck performed at Coachella on April 17, and will return for weekend two on April 24. He’s also headlining Late Night in the Palomino, the after-party on the Palomino Stage, at Stagecoach on April 30. In between festival gigs, he’s got sold-out shows at Humphreys Concerts By the Bay in San Diego on April 25 and he’s joining country legend Tanya Tucker at Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown on April 28.
Though he currently resides in Los Angeles, Peck was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and also lived in London and Toronto. But until this year, he’s never been to Coachella or Stagecoach. He said he’s heading into it mostly prepared with both new music and fresh outfits.
Peck, who is a stylish, openly gay man known for sporting a cowboy hat and an eye mask layered with fringe, is still somewhat of a mystery. He never shows his full face in public and shares very little about his personal life in interviews or on social media. He does, however, bare all in his music with his smooth, deep vocal – kind of like Elvis Presley with a bit more twang. Though primarily labeled a country artist, Peck isn’t afraid to significantly blur the lines musically by adding in elements of pop, folk, post-punk and shoegazing indie pop-rock.
His 2019 debut album, “Pony,” with the singles “Dead of Night” and “Turn to Hate,” earned him several Juno Awards. He’s also teamed up with several other artists for projects and was featured on drag queen Trixie Mattel’s EP, “Full Coverage, Vol 1,” as the pair covered Johnny and June Carter Cash’s hit “Jackson.” Peck was also one of the LGBTQ artists invited by pop star Lady Gaga to record versions of her songs for the “Born This Way the Tenth Anniversary” album, for which Peck covered the album title track. Last year, he and fellow alt-country artist Paul Cauthen formed a Righteous Brothers cover duo, dubbed the Unrighteous Brothers.
Peck’s sophomore album, “Bronco,” was released April 8. That collection of music, he insists, helped bring him out of the dark spot he was in when the pandemic began in 2020.
“I had just left a really bad situation in my personal life and I was in a very, very deep depression,” he said. “There was no touring. My work had just stopped. I was in the lowest place in my life that I had ever been, but I fell in love with writing music again in a cathartic sense rather than it just being ‘my job.’ If COVID hadn’t happened, I think my sophomore album would have been very different.”
Without the extra time the second effort wouldn’t have been as thoughtful, he explained, and he would have let the opinions of others seep into his creative process. He may have shied away from a song like “The Curse of the Blackened Eye,” which is lyrically dark and heavy, yet light-sounding, influenced by Peck listening to exotica and tiki music while writing.
“That time allowed me to go back to what I love about being an artist and just make a very, very sincere album that I kind of don’t care if someone doesn’t like it because I liked it so much,” he said.
As for his show outfits, Peck said his fashion status has been upgraded to where he’s not going to be seen performing in the same outfit twice. He’s got all new duds laid out for his festival appearances and wouldn’t reveal much more, but bold Nudie suits and lots of fringe and flair are a safe bet.
“That’s become a constant uphill battle of trying to top everything we’ve done before,” he said of his on-stage wardrobe. He’s also got a little friendly rivalry going on with fellow fashion-minded country trio Midland, who are performing on the Mane Stage at Stagecoach on April 29.
“I know those boys so well and they’re so jealous of my looks,” Peck said jokingly, noting that while he wins hands down in the style competition, the members of Midland can all pull off growing out the sweet ’80 and ’90s cowboy mustaches.
“They’ve got me on the mustache, but you know, I’ve got the fringe.”
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/orville-peck-brings-country-music-and-air-of-mystery-to-coachella-and-stagecoach-festivals/article_bedb92f3-0c6e-52ad-8d5c-c911112f49ba.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:23Z
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Music fans around the globe will once again be visiting their favorite local shops on Record Store Day.
This year’s event, which celebrates, promotes and supports independently owned record stores, takes place April 23 at shops located in 14 countries. Hundreds of acts — from Lil Wayne and Linda Martell to Nick Cave and Nicki Minaj — will be releasing limited edition records for the occasion, many of which are only available on Record Store Day.
Here are some Record Store Day exclusives that fans should consider adding to their collections. For a list of participating stores, visit recordstoreday.com.
“The Lost Album from Ronnie Scott’s,” Charles Mingus: The three-LP set delivers a never-before-released live recording of the legendary jazz bassist performing with alto saxophonist Charles McPherson, tenor saxophonist Bobby Jones, trumpeter Jon Faddis, pianist John Foster and drummer Roy Brooks at Ronnie Scott’s jazz club in London in 1972.
“Live at Brixton Academy,” Gojira: This excellent live outing, recorded by the sensational French metal act in 2013 and then released as the concert CD/DVD “Les Enfants Sauvages” one year later, is finally being issued on vinyl as a two-LP set.
“Wembley Empire Pool, London, England 4/8/72,” Grateful Dead: The five-LP package documents the second night of Jerry Garcia and company’s Wembley stand, which kicked off the Dead’s legendary “Europe ’72” tour. Selling points abound, including a 32-minute “Dark Star.”
“The Sire Albums (1981-1989),” Ramones: It’s hard to believe it’s taken this long to happen, but six of the band’s classic Sire Records platters — “Pleasant Dreams,” “Subterranean Jungle,” “Too Tough to Die,” “Animal Boy,” “Halfway to Sanity” and Brain Drain” — have just been pressed on vinyl for reportedly the first time since their original release. The seven-LP set also includes a “neon pink splatter” vinyl LP of rarities.
“Blue Highlights,” Joni Mitchell: This single LP featuring highlights from the second volume of Rhino’s Joni Mitchell Archives series includes extremely rare recordings associated with the singer-songwriter’s legendary “Blue” album.
Bill Evans doubleheader: Fans of the amazing jazz pianist have a couple of Record Store Day exclusives to choose from. (And the right choice, of course, may well be to pick both.) The first, chronologically speaking, is “Morning Glory: The 1973 Concert at the Teatro Gran Rex, Buenos Aires” with bassist Eddie Gomez and drummer Marty Morell. The second is “Inner Spirit: The 1979 Concert at the Teatro General San Martin, Buenos Aires” with bassist Marc Johnson and drummer Joe LaBarbera.
“Revelations: The Complete ORTF 1970 Fondation Maeght Recordings,” Albert Ayler: This is a “Record Store Day First” offering, as opposed to a Record Store Day exclusive, which means that it will be available at some point after April 23 as well. Yet, this five-LP set is so cool that we felt compelled to include on the list. It features two hours of never-before-heard recordings, including some of the last that the iconic free-jazz saxophonist would make before his death in 1970 at the age of 34.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/record-store-day-2022-8-top-picks-for-vinyl-collectors/article_4ef33c58-bc2d-5e0a-9449-ab796238f790.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:30Z
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Now 58, with nearly 100 film credits since he was “Brad’s bud” in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” in 1982, Nicolas Cage has handled a lion’s share of money grabs in a career distinguished by a gratifying number of movies worth seeing, often just for him. Good material, bad material, big-budget studio clangers, low-budget indies on wry: The man does not coast.
The central gag in the occasionally funny action-comedy “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” imagines Cage, playing a variation on himself named Nick Cage at a career impasse.
Divorced, with a tenuous, tetchy relationship with a (fictional) teenage daughter played by Lily Mo Sheen, the movie’s version of Cage has run up a $600,000 tab at a fancy Los Angeles hotel and needs a job. His agent, Fink (Neil Patrick Harris), comes through with a prospect: For a cool, gallingly easy million, his client is to attend a superrich Cage fan’s birthday party on the island of Mallorca, Spain. There Cage will be the special guest star, required only to small-talk about his career, get some sun and sweat his future.
Jovial, star-struck Javi, the Cage fanatic played by a movie-improving Pedro Pascal, has been identified by CIA operatives played by Tiffany Haddish and Ike Barinholtz (both sold short by the plot) as an international gunrunning murderer in a known family of criminals. Cage becomes a double agent of sorts, helping out the American intelligence experts while getting to know, and genuinely like, his host, who happens also to have an idea for a Cage screenplay.
You could get a good, brash lark out of that premise. “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” is roughly 38% good, and not brash or satiric enough. The bits that got me laughing had nothing – and I mean nothing – to do with the increasingly dominant action-thriller machinery. My favorite is a sidewinding minute or two with Nick and Javi, tripping on LSD, sitting on a bench staring, paranoid, at two people eating ice cream. It’s a familiar setup: drug-fueled panic leads to a ridiculous outcome. But watching Cage and Pascal play off each other is a treat. There’s a sweetness to their relationship that makes up for whole sections of a routinely shot, awkwardly edited project.
Co-written (with Kevin Etten) and directed by sophomore feature filmmaker Tom Gormican, “Unbearable Weight” name-checks like a maniac, dropping one-liners about Cage’s nutty resume (”Con Air” and “Guarding Tess”) while having the boy-men played by Cage and Pascal discuss the action-movie compromises they’ll have to make in the screenplay they’re writing. That joke feels like an apology for the film; self-referentiality without a twist is just settling for less. Comedies need the courage of their convictions, and the guts to forego anything that doesn’t add to the fun.
I suppose the film’s sincere bid to address the fictional Cage’s better-late-than-never awakening as a father gives “Unbearable Weight” some emotional ballast. But is it any more necessary than the beatings, shootings, climactic chases and accumulation of corpses? That’s dead weight, not ballast.
Through it all, Cage gives his all, which hardly needed saying. He takes on two roles, plus a cameo, playing “himself”; a pushy, digitally de-aged ‘90s version of himself, named “Nicky”; and a peppy, aged Italian crime boss with terrible fashion sense. Cage never stops trying things, whether its eccentric physical details (such as his wrist-spin on his juicy pronunciation of the name “Javi”) or idiosyncratically timed punchlines. He has no interest in breaking his no-laziness streak, especially in his own little “Being John Malkovich.” I suspect the Cage fans who will enjoy this movie won’t care if it’s fundamentally sloppy and lazy moviemaking. The star of the show is neither.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/review-in-unbearable-weight-nicolas-cage-finds-laughs-in-an-empty-action-movie-plot/article_fa85d71a-fe94-5404-b266-18a00149513d.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:36Z
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...HIGH WIND WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH
SATURDAY AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...West winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph
possible.
* WHERE...South Laramie Range, South Laramie Range Foothills and
Central Laramie County.
* WHEN...From late tonight through Saturday afternoon.
* IMPACTS...Damaging winds could blow down trees and power
lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be
difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this
situation. Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe
location prior to the onset of winds.
&&
Weather Alert
...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM MDT FRIDAY FOR
STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER ZONES 430, 431,
433, 435, 436, AND 437...
...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 8 PM MDT
THIS EVENING FOR STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR FIRE WEATHER
ZONES 430, 431, 433, 435, 436, AND 437...
* AFFECTED AREA...Fire weather zones 430, 431, 433, 435, 436 AND
437 covering much of the Nebraska Panhandle and portions of
southeast Wyoming.
* WIND...South to southwest 25 to 35 mph sustained with gusts of
40 to 50 mph.
* HUMIDITY...Minimum 8 to 13 percent.
* IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is highly discouraged.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. The combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.
&&
‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ moves to 2023
Theatergoers will now have to wait until next year to swing back into the Spider-Verse.
The release date for the much-anticipated animated sequel “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” has been moved to June 2, 2023, according to Variety, as Sony Pictures made updates to its upcoming movie schedule.
The film had previously been slated for Oct. 7 of this year.
Sony also revealed that a third installment, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Part II,” will hit cinemas on March 29, 2024.
The series’ original movie, 2018’s “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” was a smash hit, winning the Oscar for best animated feature and grossing more than $375 million worldwide.
The film introduces a multiverse in which different versions of the heroic Peter Parker live in alternate dimensions.
Moving into that Oct. 7 slot is “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile,” an adaptation of the kids book series starring Javier Bardem and Constance Wu. It had previously been scheduled to come out this November.
Wednesday’s announcement also revealed that the live-action “Madame Web,” which stars Dakota Johnson as the title character based on Marvel’s Spider-Man comic books, will release on July 7, 2023.
The Denzel Washington-led action flick “The Equalizer 3,” meanwhile, blasts into theaters on Sept. 1, 2023.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/spider-man-across-the-spider-verse-moves-to-2023/article_e945d133-61cb-53ad-a362-495eb7b7c8af.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:42Z
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Cheyenne and Laramie County
”An Evening of One Acts” @ LCCC
– April 22-23, 28-30, 7:30 p.m. $10. LCCC’s spring production is a series of one-act plays over two weekends. Playwright Matthew McLachlan collaborated with the theater department in the creation of these plays. Laramie County Community College, 1400 E. College Drive. 307-778-5222
Earth Day at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens
April 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; April 23, 12-3 p.m., various events and workshops. Visit the Botanic Gardens to celebrate Earth Day and learn easy ways to save money and reduce our impact on the environment. All classes are free and are first-come, first-served. Full list of events online at https://www.botanic.org/adultclasses/. Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, 710 S. Lions Park Drive. 307-637-6349
Classic Conversations: Lunch and Learn Series
– April 22, 12-1 p.m. Join Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra’s William Intrilligator, soprano vocalist Jennifer Bird-Arvidsson, and bass-baritone vocalist Rhys Lloyd Talbot for an informal and entertaining discussion, including musical insights about the concert on April 23. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Movies at the Library, Burns Branch
– April 22, 1-3 p.m. Join the Burns Branch Library for a family friendly movie and some popcorn. This week’s movie is “The House with a Clock in Its Walls.” Burns Branch Library, 112 Main St., 307-547-2249
Friday Matinee, Pine Bluffs
– April 22, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Spend your Friday afternoons at the Pine Bluffs Branch library to watch a matinee. Each week will feature a different movie. This week’s movie is “Clifford the Big Red Dog” (PG). Pine Bluffs Branch Library, 110 E. Second St. 307-245-3646
Cheyenne Gaming Convention
– April 22, 3 p.m.-midnight; April 23, 8 a.m.-midnight; April 24, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. $50 for three day pass. A charity fundraising video game convention featuring DnD, video games, card games and board games. Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center, 204 W. Fox Farm Rd. 307-638-4466
Teen Craft Afternoons
– April 22, 3-5 p.m. Never know what to do with your hands? Not anymore! Visit craft afternoons and spend some time making unique crafts. Snacks will be provided. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Count on Planting with Paul Smith Children’s Village
– April 22, 4-5 p.m. Children and families. Like counting games? Enjoy planting? Then this event is for you! Go to the library and join special guests from the Paul Smith Children’s Village to play, learn and plant all in one spot. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Friday Night Jazz
– April 22, 6 p.m. 21+. Bring some friends, grab a drink and food, and listen to some beautiful music by Jazztet in the relaxing Hathaway’s Lounge. Two-drink minimum required. Little America Hotel and Resort, 2800 W. Lincolnway. 307-775-8400
Comedy Night at The Metropolitan
– April 22, 7:30 p.m. $20. Laughter is good for the soul. Get your giggles on at this 90-minute comedy show featuring two awesome comedians. The Metropolitan Downtown, 1701 Carey Ave. 307-432-0022
The Samples @ The Lincoln
– April 22, 8-9 p.m. $25. Boulder, Colorado-based band, The Samples, will perform reggae infused rock/pop. The Lincoln Theatre, 1615 Central Ave. 307-369-6028
Yoga Together
– April 23, 10:15-10:45 a.m. 18 months to 5 years old. Experience stories, stretching and fun with a special early literacy class. This month’s theme is “Splish Splash Ducky.” Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Virtual SaturD&D
– April 23, 1-3 p.m. Join the library’s teen Dungeons and Dragons online community and get started on creating a character today. Don’t have a Discord account yet? No problem. They offers Discord Communities for teens to interact, chat and play online. To participate, you will need a phone, tablet or computer with internet connection and a Discord account. RSVP for the event at lclsonline.org/calendar/.
Fur Ball presents Jurassic Bark
– April 23, 5-10 p.m. $110. The Fur Ball is Cheyenne’s pet-friendly gala, which raises money in support of the animals and programs at the Cheyenne Animal Shelter. Little America Hotel and Resort, 2800 W. Lincolnway. 307-278-6195
Cruise the Legend
– April 23, 6-9 p.m. The first Cruise the Legend of 2022, where classic cars gather to cruise the Cheyenne Strip. This months cruise benefits the Girl Scouts. Troop members will be selling cookies on sight. 24th Street Parking Lot, Downtown Cheyenne. cheyennecruisenights@gmail.com
CSO presents “A Time to Transcend”
– April 23, 7:30 p.m. $10-$50 for in person, $15 per household for livestream. This Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra concert will feature Jennifer Higdon’s “Blue Cathedral” and Brahms’ German Requiem to close the 2021-22 season. This evening will feature vocal soloists Jennifer Bird-Arvidsson and Rhys Lloyd Talbot, plus a large local choir. Cheyenne Civic Center, 510 W. 20th St. 307-778-8561
Wyo Music Showcase
– April 23, doors at 7 p.m. $5, free entry 11 and under. A local rap showcase hosted by Wyoming Wave Recording Studio featuring Trey Wrks, 2une Godi, Compass, Alienation and more. There will also be a raffle. The Louise Event Venue, 110 E. 17th Street. 307-220-1474
Young Readers Book Party
– April 24, 1:15-2 p.m. Grades pre-K to 2. Join the library for a celebration of reading with young readers that’s a little bit early literacy class and a little bit more. The class will read and talk about books, sing, play and learn. This month’s themes are Bird Art and Family Storytelling Games. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Hausmusik 2: Wyoming Brass Quintet
– April 24, 2 p.m. Adults, $50; students, $25. CSO presents an afternoon with the Wyoming Brass Quintet in the beautiful new Blue Community Events Center at World Headquarters. The recital will be followed by a reception including light appetizers. Blue Federal Credit Union, 2401 E. Pershing Blvd. 307-778-8561
Speed Friending at Blacktooth Brewing Co.
– April 24, 6-9 p.m. $25. This speed friending event will be structured just like speed dating, but for anyone wanting to meet new people. Black Tooth knows it’s difficult to make the first move or initiate a new friend-date, so the team wants to facilitate those connections. Tickets include two beer tokens. Black Tooth Brewing Co. 520 W. 19th St. 307-514-0362
Chicago at the Civic Center
– April 24, 7-10 p.m. $54+. The legendary rock band with horns, Chicago, is coming back to Cheyenne. Cheyenne Civic Center, 510 W. 20th St. 307-778-8561
Make it Mondays
– April 25, 1-5 p.m. Get crafty at the library every Monday! We will be making beautiful heart paper flowers to celebrate the coming of spring. Burns Branch Library, 112 Main St., 307-547-2249
Minute to Win It, Burns Branch Library
– April 25-30, 1-5 p.m. Can you complete our wacky and fun games in just one minute? Compete against your friends and family, or see how fast you can win the games by yourself. Every participant gets a prize. Burns Branch Library, 112 Main St., 307-547-2249
Tales Together
– April 26-28, 10:15-10:45 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m. Join the library for an in-person interactive early literacy class for preschool children and their caregivers. Practice new skills incorporating books, songs, rhymes, movement and more. Pick up weekly craft packet from Ask Here desk on the second floor. Call to reserve a spot. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Fun for Kids! Burns Branch Library
– April 26, 10:15-11 a.m. Join in an interactive storytime session to promote early literacy through books, songs, puppets, crafts and much more. This week’s theme is “Bears.” Burns Branch Library, 112 Main St., 307-547-2249
Famous Illustrators
– April 26, 4:15-5 p.m. Grades K-2. Join the library for a peek into how some of your favorite book illustrators make their art. This month, the focus will be on Lois Ehlert. Wear play clothes, as it could get messy. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Book Discussion Group
– April 26, 6-7:30 p.m. April is known for Earth Day and the sowing of spring seedlings, so join Laramie County Library in reading Octavia Butler’s dystopian novel “Parable of the Sower.” Join the group for tea and scones on the last Tuesday of the month. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Virtual Tales Together
– April 28, 9:30-10 a.m. Free. Join the Laramie County Library for a virtual interactive early literacy class where young children will practice new skills incorporating books, songs, rhymes, movement and more. Pick up weekly craft packet from Ask Here desk on the second floor. RSVP at lclsonline.org/calendar/. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Fun for Kids! Pine Bluffs Branch
– April 28, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Join in an interactive storytime session to promote early literacy through books, songs, puppets, crafts and much more. This week’s theme is “Bears.” Pine Bluffs Branch Library, 110 E. Second St. 307-245-3646
Brown Bag Book Club
– April 28, 6-7 p.m. Grade 4-6. Book Club will meet twice during the month of April. The club will chat about the book, do some crazy activities and enjoy a delicious treat. Participants can bring a “brown bag” meal, and drinks will be provided. Participants can pick up “Masterminds” by Gordon Korman from the second floor. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Movies at the Library, Burns Branch
– April 29, 1-3 p.m. Join the Burns Branch Library for a family-friendly movie and some popcorn. This week’s movie is “Jungle Cruise (PG-13).” Burns Branch Library, 112 Main St., 307-547-2249
Friday Matinee, Pine Bluffs
– April 29, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Spend your Friday afternoons at the Pine Bluffs Branch library to watch a matinee. Each week will feature a different movie. This week’s movie is “Tom and Jerry: The Movie” (PG). Pine Bluffs Branch Library, 110 E. Second St. 307-245-3646
Friday Night Jazz
– April 29, 6 p.m. 21+. Bring some friends, grab a drink and food, and listen to some beautiful music by Jazztet in the relaxing Hathaway’s Lounge. Two-drink minimum required. Little America Hotel and Resort, 2800 W. Lincolnway. 307-775-8400
Cheyenne Audubon Free Talk
– April 29, 7 p.m. Award-winning Pinedale wildlife photographer Elizabeth Boehm will be presenting a free talk, “Bird Photography Using Blinds.” Wyoming Game and Fish Department Headquarters, 5400 Bishop Blvd. 307-777-4600
Art for Art
– April 29, 7-10 p.m. $35. An immersive art experience hosted by Arts Cheyenne. Local and regional artists are coming together to create a multi-sensory evening of enjoying art, with an art auction and experience. The Lincoln Theatre, 1615 Central Ave. 307-369-6028
Southeast Wyoming Concert Series presents Joe Robinson
– April 29, 7 p.m. $20. Joe Robinson’s live “one man” acoustic/electric show is an energetic display of virtuosity and witty, finely crafted lyrics delivered with his personable Aussie charisma. Joe won “Australia’s Got Talent” in 2008 at the age of 17, and has since earned a reputation as one of the world’s greatest guitar players and brilliant song writers. Call 307-214-7076 for more information. South High School Auditorium, 1213 W. Allison Road. 307-771-2410
Dueling Pianos
– April 29-30, 8-11 p.m. $20. Come laugh and sing along in an evening of musical entertainment directed by your requests. The Metropolitan Downtown, 1701 Carey Ave. 307-432-0022
Cheyenne Audubon Free Photography Workshop
– April 30, 7 a.m. Award-winning Pinedale wildlife photographer Elizabeth Boehm will be presenting a free bird blind demonstration open to the public. Cheyenne Botanic Gardens’ Paul Smith Children’s Village, 710 S. Lions Park Drive. 307-637-6349
Meet the Birds!
– April 30, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $15. A bird identification class for adults and children 12 and older. Just before the peak of migration, let Cheyenne Audubon members introduce you to 50 local birds. A combination of classroom discussion and short walks into Lions Park, a Wyoming Important Bird Area, with borrowed binoculars or your own. Cheyenne Botanic Gardens’ Paul Smith Children’s Village, 710 S. Lions Park Drive. 307-637-6349
National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
– April 30, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Join local animal shelters to celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day! You can fill out adoption documents, see pictures of other adoptable animals, learn how to take care of your new pet, and donate pet food and supplies to the shelters. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
”Wild Creek Whispers” Book Signing
– April 30, 10-2 p.m. Local author Cindy Reynders will hold a signing of the first book in her new series about a Wyoming private investigator. Barnes and Noble, 1851 Dell Range Blvd. 307-632-3000.
Virtual SaturD&D
– April 30, 1-3 p.m. Join the library’s teen Dungeons and Dragons online community and get started on creating a character today. Don’t have a Discord account yet? No problem. They offers Discord Communities for teens to interact, chat and play online. To participate, you will need a phone, tablet or computer with internet connection and a Discord account. RSVP for the event at lclsonline.org/calendar/.
”The Price is Right” at the Laramie County Library
– April 30, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Grades 3-6. “Come on down” to be a contestant in our version of “The Price is Right” gameshow. Participants could win cool prizes as you learn about how far your money can go. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Tunes, Taps and Apps
– April 30, 5 p.m. $60. Join the Symphony Friends for a fantastic evening of locally brewed beer and chef-curated appetizer pairings in support of the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra. There will also be a cash bar and silent auction. The Atlas Theatre, 211 W. Lincolnway. 307-638-6543
Cheyenne Capital Chorale Spring Concert
– April 30, 7 p.m. Free. This concert is titled “Pieces Put Together for Beautiful Music.” South High School Auditorium, 1213 W. Allison Road. 307-771-2410
All City Children’s Chorus Concert
– May 1, 4 p.m. The final performance in their 46th season, “Unforgettable,” is titled “Favorite Classics.” The concert will include songs that are favorites of the singers, the directors and the audience. The graduating 8th graders will be honored and ACCC alumni are invited to join the singers on the stage for the final number “River in Judea”.”Cheyenne Civic Center, 510 W. 20th St. 307-778-8561
LCCC presents Chanticleer
– May 1, 7 p.m. Laramie County Community College Foundation will host the Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer. The performance will be the group’s second performance in Cheyenne and part of their 2022 Tour. Laramie County Community College, 1400 E. College Drive. 307-778-5222
Guided Play
– May 2, 10-11:45 a.m. Each week the library will feature a different playscape in the Early Literacy Center, along with suggestions of how to engage your child in guided play. This week’s theme is “Dress Up and Pretend.” Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Sit, Stay, Read! Read to a Therapy Dog
– May 2, 4-5 p.m. Everyone loves to hear a story, even our four-pawed friends. Visit the library and practice reading aloud to one of the community’s therapy dogs. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
May the Fourth Celebrations
– May 4, 6-9 p.m. There’s a disturbance in the Force and the source of the disturbance is fun. Visit and celebrate May 4th with special guest characters from the 501st Legion Mountain Garrison. The library will have fun activities and refreshments with a Star Wars theme. Join for trivia starting at 7pm. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
May the Fourth DIY Lightsaber Workshop
– May 4, 6-7:30 p.m. Is the Force strong with you? Prove it by making your own lightsaber as part of the library’s May the 4th celebration. The library will provide all the materials you need to create your very own special Jedi blade. Sign up at lclsonline.org/calendar/. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
Movies at the Library, Burns
– May 6, 1-3 p.m. Join the Burns Branch Library for a family-friendly movie and some popcorn. This week’s movie is “Encanto” (PG). Burns Branch Library, 112 Main St. 307-547-2249
Friday Matinee, Pine Bluffs
– May 6, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Spend your Friday afternoons at the library to watch a family-friendly matinee. Bring a favorite snack and enjoy the show. This months movie is “The Addams Family 2” (PG). Pine Bluffs Branch Library, 110 E. Second St. 307-245-3646
Arts Cheyenne ArtHaus Launch Party and Artwalk
– May 6, 6 p.m. Arts Cheyenne will be showcasing the first ArtHaus exhibit, a Fine Arts Cheyenne Invitational, which will highlight local artists’ work. Enjoy the art as you sip on a beverage and meet the artists eager to chat and share their creations. Cheyenne Depot, 232 W. 15th St. 307-632-3905
WyArt Coalition Fine Art Exchange
- May 6-7. The second installment of the Fine Art Exchange is here. Attendees can bid through the silent auction, or ... You know all those skills you have in plumbing? Or web design? Maybe you bake a killer wedding cake. How about just a crazy, off-the-wall skill you can teach? Well, now is your chance to offer that up in return for some artwork. Cheyenne Depot, 232 W. 15th St. 307-632-3905
CLTP presents “Cabaret”
– May 6-8, 12-15, 20-22, 7:30 p.m. $24, dinner theater $48. In a Berlin nightclub, as the 1920s draw to a close, a garish Master of Ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all their troubles at the “Cabaret.” With the Emcee’s bawdy songs as wry commentary, “Cabaret” explores the dark, heady and tumultuous life of Berlin’s natives and expatriates as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich. Historic Atlas Theatre, 211 W. Lincolnway. 307-638-6543
Ongoing
Governor’s Capitol Art Exhibition
– Through Aug. 14, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Presented by the Wyoming State Museum, this exhibit compiles 66 different pieces of artwork from artists around the state of Wyoming. Wyoming State Capitol basement extension, 200 W. 24th St. 307-777-7220
”Mountains and Monochromatic” April Art Show
– Through April 30. Wednesday through Friday, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. No explanation needed for the mountains. This art show also features monochromatic works to convey simplicity, peacefulness, starkness, purity or other meaning. It can use different shades of one color, but, by definition, should contain only one base color. Cheyenne Artists Guild, 1701 Morrie Ave. 307-632-2263
Art & Text: Artist as Storyteller
– Through May 17, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Enjoy visual stories and the written word created by K–12 students in Laramie County School District 1. Art is located throughout all three floors of the library. Laramie County Library, 2200 Pioneer Ave. 307-634-3561
The Front Range
Alice in Wonderland
- April 29-30, May 6-7, 13-14, 7 p.m.; May 1, 7, 14, 1 p.m. $10. To celebrate their 30th season, Debut Theatre Company takes you on a delightful adventure to capture the imagination of all ages with clever, nonsensical word-play and irreverent humor. Lewis Carroll’s famous story about dreams and reality, childhood and growing up, games and nonsense, will transport you to a land that vexes time, stretches space and asks you to believe at least six impossible things before breakfast. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St. 970-221-6730
Canyon Concert Ballet presents “Snow White”
– May 7-8, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. $30-$40. This debut production brings to life the legendary fairy tale of Snow White. This production from new Artistic Director Michael Pappalardo will be complete with new sets, costumes and his exquisite choreographic style. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia St. 970-221-6730
”Black and White in Black and White” Exhibit
–Through May 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. $8. This new exhibit features striking photographs attributed to African American photographer John Johnson who took powerful, early 20th-century portraits of African Americans in Lincoln, Nebraska. Greeley History Museum, 714 9th St, Greeley, Colorado. 970-350-9220
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/todo/friday-calendar-4-22-22/article_211fe26c-32d6-504b-a99b-4a1ac6fbd733.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:48Z
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Your backside barely fits.
There's not much wiggle room but you're grateful for the seat; you could use more leg room, but the inconvenience is worth it to see the world again. You were welcomed aboard, you don't even mind the loud-talker in the seat in front of you, and you'll be taking off soon so now's the time: get "The Great Stewardess Rebellion" by Nell McShane Wulfhart from your carry-on and buckle in.
Patt Gibbs' parents had given their children an interesting life. They'd traveled, owned retail businesses and restaurants, and each of the kids worked with the circus at one time or another. So when Patt was nineteen and ready for change again, her cousin suggested she apply to be a stewardess with American Airlines. It seemed like a good idea.
In 1961 Patt moved to the "charm farm" to learn to walk in high heels, style her hair identical to that of her co-workers, wear the ultra-strict underwear-to-outerwear uniform and to cater to businessmen on the short flights she was assigned. It wasn't until she accidentally became a member of the stewardess union – a time that coincided with the Women's Movement – that she and other women began to question those stringent rules, and others.
The government had just passed the Equal Opportunity Act, so why didn't women have access to better jobs with the airlines? Why was the pay different for men and women, for the same work? Why were men's work-rules more relaxed? Stewardesses began to file grievances over issues, which led to lawsuits on behalf of a growing number of women in an industry that was itself growing. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission went to work.
The Teamster's Union was briefly involved. Every time they were denied better and equal working conditions, the stewardesses found other ways to fight...
From the beginning in 1930, when Ellen Church became the first "stewardess," female flight attendants labored under interesting and often chafing rules. So what happened? As author Nell McShane Wulfhart shows in "The Great Stewardess Rebellion," there were a variety of pressures from inside and out.
Primarily, though, the reason for change and for this book were the women who worked side-by-side with a burgeoning awareness of inequality. In Wulfhart's stories, their predicaments seem, at first, as merely old-fashioned, like the girdle-and-bubble-hairdos they're forced to wear. But as times change inside this book, so will readers' minds. Outrage expands then and Wulfhart acts as a teacher of culture, showing how American society altered the way women worked and vice versa. That part of the story touches upon more than just white women's rights, and it's almost made for Hollywood.
What happened fifty years ago may bring to mind the issues flight attendants can have on today's flights, which makes this book all the more relevant, astounding, cringey and cheer-worthy, and you'll admire your attendant doubly if you're flying this summer. Whether you're in business-class or not, "The Great Stewardess Rebellion" is a book that'll fit your cravings.
"The Great Stewardess Rebellion: How Women Launched a Workplace Revolution at 30,000 Feet" by Nell McShane Wulfhart, c.2022, Doubleday Books, $30.00, 320 pages
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/todo/relevant-astounding-and-cringey-the-great-stewardess-rebellion-soars/article_8ba72f4a-4bd4-5109-a447-a97a81a897b2.html
| 2022-04-22T14:22:54Z
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Earth Day falls on April 22, which also coincides with National Parks Week (April 16-24). If you’re not out there experiencing all that our national parks have to offer, there are still ways to explore and learn from the comfort of your home, with a variety of streaming programming celebrating our national parks, offering education about our natural world and urgently calling for action to preserve life on planet Earth.
Start off with the new Netflix series “Our Great National Parks,” narrated by former President Barack Obama. While the first episode serves as an overview, the subsequent episodes hop around the globe, stopping in Kenya, Indonesia, Chile and California. Of course, if you’d like to focus more on America’s national parks, there’s the classic PBS docuseries by Ken Burns, “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.” Stream it through PBS or purchase the series through iTunes or Amazon.
Disney+ has a stacked “Earth Month” collection on their service, where they’ve gathered a variety of National Geographic and Disneynature documentaries that will appeal to the youngest and oldest in your home. They will also be releasing two new documentaries on April 22, the Disneynature doc “Polar Bear,” narrated by Catherine Keener, and “The Biggest Little Farm: The Return,” a follow-up to the hit 2019 documentary “The Biggest Little Farm,” streaming on Hulu and Kanopy. This sequel goes back to Apricot Lane Farms to take another look at how the farmers there have worked to develop biodiversity and the interconnectedness of nature in their farming practices.
If you’re looking for something new that’s a bit more action-oriented, the new documentary by Joshua Tickell and Rebecca Harrell Tickell, “The Revolution Generation,” narrated by Michelle Rodriguez, will be in theaters and available to rent digitally on April 22. While this film takes a wider scope than just environmental issues, looking at the new generation of politicians and activists working across a variety of social justice issues, climate change is front and center as one of the main issues featured in the film, as young activists work toward securing the future of this planet. The Tickells’ previous film, “Kiss the Ground” (2020), narrated by Woody Harrelson, takes a look at the global movement towards regenerative agriculture, and is currently streaming on Netflix.
For another film about a young climate change activist, stream Nathan Grossman’s documentary “I Am Greta” on Hulu. The film chronicles the life and work of Swedish teen activist Greta Thunberg, who has become the face of the young movement fighting to urge worldwide action on climate change.
There are many, many additional inspiring documentaries exploring the wonders of the natural world and threats that we all face due to climate change. These are just a few, but hopefully they offer an inspiring jumping off point to explore more films on this topic. Happy Earth Day.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/features/todo/what-to-stream-if-you-cant-get-out-celebrate-earth-day-at-home-with-these/article_5d749172-b93d-574b-818c-f71ddef520ab.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:00Z
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FRIDAY
Albany County CattleWomen meet: 11:30 a.m., location tbd. Visit wyaccw.com in the week before the meeting for location and more information.
Free stress relief clinic: Noon to 1 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
LHS musical theatre presents “Bye Bye Birdie”: 7 p.m., Laramie High School theater. Tickets are $8 adults, $6 students and can be bought online at lhstg7838.booktix.com or at the door.
UW planetarium presents “Earth Day”: 7 p.m., UW Planetarium. Observe our beautiful planet from the ground, sky and space as we learn about glaciers, atmospheric science, meteorology, extreme weather events and climate history.
Violin virtuoso Augustin Hadelich with UW Chamber Orchestra: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets available at uwyo.edu/finearts.
Relative Theatrics presents “Black Sky”: 7:30 p.m., Gryphon Theatre at the Laramie Plains Civic Center, 710 E. Garfield St. Tickets are $16, and $14 for students and seniors. Get them online at relativetheatrics.eventbrite.com.
SATURDAY
Laramie Home and Garden Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Laramie Ice and Events Center.
Free stress relief clinic: 10-11 a.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
UW planetarium presents “From Earth to the Universe”: 2 p.m., UW Planetarium. The night sky, both beautiful and mysterious, has been the subject of campfire stories, ancient myths and awe for as long as there have been people.
LHS musical theatre presents “Bye Bye Birdie”: 7 p.m., Laramie High School theater. Tickets are $8 adults, $6 students and can be bought online at lhstg7838.booktix.com or at the door.
Relative Theatrics presents “Black Sky”: 7:30 p.m., Gryphon Theatre at the Laramie Plains Civic Center, 710 E. Garfield St. Tickets are $16, and $14 for students and seniors. Get them online at relativetheatrics.eventbrite.com.
UW Theater and Dance presents Koresh Dance Co.: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts main stage. Tickets $16, $13 for seniors and $8 for students. Call 307-766-6666 or visit uwyo.edu/finearts.
SUNDAY
Understanding Medicare informational meeting: 3 p.m., American Legion post, 417 E. Ivinson Ave. Free and open to the public.
UW Department of Music presents “Grieg, Violin Sonatas for Flute”: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. Free to attend and public is invited.
MONDAY
Alcoholics Anonymous meets: Daily at various times in person or on Zoom. For more information, call 307-399-0590 or visit area76aawyoming.org or aa.org.
Survivors of Suicide Support Group: Meets from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Hospice of Laramie House, 1754 Centennial Drive.
Wyoming’s energy economy panel discussion: 6 p.m., online at uweconomists.eventbrite.com. Features four University of Wyoming economists.
Women for Sobriety meet: 6:30-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting details, email 1093@womenforsobriety.org.
America Sewing Guild Laramie Chapter meets: 7 p.m., United Methodist Church, 1215 E. Gibbon St. Please enter through the lower east door off the parking lot.
TUESDAY
Prayers & Squares Quilting Group meets: 9 a.m., Room 1 of Hunter Hall at St. Matthews Cathedral.
Free stress relief clinic: 1-2 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
Albany County Public Library Board meets: 4 p.m., in the large meeting room at the library’s Laramie branch. Public comments can be emailed to rcrocker@acplwy.org to be read aloud at the meeting.
WEDNESDAY
Laramie Tai Chi and tea: Meets at 1:30 p.m. at the north end of the stadium in Laramie Plainsman Park, North 15th and Reynolds. For more information, visit laramietaichiandtea.org.
WU Theatre and Dance presents rock musical “Be Like Joe”: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets — $14, $11 for seniors and $7 for students — call 307-766-6666 or visit uwyo.edu/finearts.
THURSDAY
Caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s/dementia: 3 p.m., meet for coffee, pie, understanding and comradeship at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 204 S. 30th St. For more information, call 307-745-6451.
Albany County Democrats host legislative town hall and pizza party: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Lincoln Community Center, 365 W. Grand Ave. Also will be livestreamed on the Albany County Democrats Facebook page.
International Night at Laramie High School: 6-7:30 p.m., at the school. Tickets cost $15 and are available 3:15-4:15 p.m. in the lobby through April 22.
Stitching the Past Together creative aging class: 6:30-8 p.m., Albany County Public Library large meeting room. Students will learn memory-based storytelling through beading techniques in this free course. Register at acplwy.org or at the circulation desk.
WU Theatre and Dance presents rock musical “Be Like Joe”: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets — $14, $11 for seniors and $7 for students — call 307-766-6666 or visit uwyo.edu/finearts.
April 29
Free stress relief clinic: Noon to 1 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
Pianist Cory Smythe public recital: 7 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. Performing with Sherry Sinift on violin and James Przygocki on viola. Free to attend.
UW planetarium presents “Mars”: 7 p.m., UW Planetarium. The red planet is host to many questions; did it used to be like Earth? Did it once harbor life? Could it still support life?
WU Theatre and Dance presents rock musical “Be Like Joe”: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets — $14, $11 for seniors and $7 for students — call 307-766-6666 or visit uwyo.edu/finearts.
April 30
Free stress relief clinic: 10-11 a.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
UW planetarium presents “Mexica Archaeoastronomy”: 2 p.m., UW Planetarium. Illustrates the important role played by astronomical observation for the evolution of pre-Hispanic cultures in central Mexico.
UW planetarium presents “Liquid Sky, Electronica”: 7 p.m., UW Planetarium. Enjoy a custom playlist of music from today’s top artists.
WU Theatre and Dance presents rock musical “Be Like Joe”: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets — $14, $11 for seniors and $7 for students — call 307-766-6666 or visit uwyo.edu/finearts.
May 1
Learn about veterans benefits and how to apply: 3 p.m., American Legion post, 417 E. Ivinson Ave. Free and open to the public.
May 2
Alcoholics Anonymous meets: Daily at various times in person or on Zoom. For more information, call 307-399-0590 or visit area76aawyoming.org or aa.org.
Survivors of Suicide Support Group: Meets from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Hospice of Laramie House, 1754 Centennial Drive.
Women for Sobriety meet: 6:30-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting details, email 1093@womenforsobriety.org.
May 3
Prayers & Squares Quilting Group meets: 9 a.m., Room 1 of Hunter Hall at St. Matthews Cathedral.
Free stress relief clinic: 1-2 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 4
Laramie Tai Chi and tea: Meets at 1:30 p.m. at the north end of the stadium in Laramie Plainsman Park, North 15th and Reynolds. For more information, visit laramietaichiandtea.org.
Ivinson Medical Group women’s health prenatal education: 5:30 p.m., Ivinson Memorial Hospital in the Summit Conference Room. Learn more or register at ivinsonhospital.org/childbirth.
May 5
Caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s/dementia: 3 p.m., meet for coffee, pie, understanding and comradeship at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 204 S. 30th St. For more information, call 307-745-6451.
Diabetes Support Group meets: 5:30-6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Email questions@ivinsosnhospital.org for the link.
Cinco de Mayo at the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Horse Barn Theater at the site. Free to public.
Stitching the Past Together creative aging class: 6:30-8 p.m., Albany County Public Library large meeting room. Students will learn memory-based storytelling through beading techniques in this free course. Register at acplwy.org or at the circulation desk.
UW Symphony presents “An American in Paris”: 7:30 p.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts concert hall. For tickets call 307-766-6666, visit the UW box offices at Fine Arts or the Student Union, or visit uwyo.edu/fineart.
May 6
Free stress relief clinic: Noon to 1 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 7
Free stress relief clinic: 10-11 a.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
VFW Post 2221 Commander’s Charity Dinner: 5:30-8 p.m., 2142 E. Garfield St. Tickets 412 at the door, all proceeds to benefit VFW Poppy Fund and Albany County Search and Rescue.
May 9
Alcoholics Anonymous meets: Daily at various times in person or on Zoom. For more information, call 307-399-0590 or visit area76aawyoming.org or aa.org.
Survivors of Suicide Support Group: Meets from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Hospice of Laramie House, 1754 Centennial Drive.
Women for Sobriety meet: 6:30-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting details, email 1093@womenforsobriety.org.
May 10
Prayers & Squares Quilting Group meets: 9 a.m., Room 1 of Hunter Hall at St. Matthews Cathedral.
Free stress relief clinic: 1-2 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
Albany County Republican Party meets: 6 p.m., Albany County Public Library.
May 11
Laramie Tai Chi and tea: Meets at 1:30 p.m. at the north end of the stadium in Laramie Plainsman Park, North 15th and Reynolds. For more information, visit laramietaichiandtea.org.
Ivinson Medical Group women’s health prenatal education: 5:30 p.m., Ivinson Memorial Hospital in the Summit Conference Room. Learn more or register at ivinsonhospital.org/childbirth.
May 12
Caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s/dementia: 3 p.m., meet for coffee, pie, understanding and comradeship at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 204 S. 30th St. For more information, call 307-745-6451.
Stitching the Past Together creative aging class: 6:30-8 p.m., Albany County Public Library large meeting room. Students will learn memory-based storytelling through beading techniques in this free course. Register at acplwy.org or at the circulation desk.
May 13
Free stress relief clinic: Noon to 1 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 14
University of Wyoming graduation ceremony: 8:30 a.m., UW Arena-Auditorium, undergraduate ceremony for the colleges of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engineering and Applied Science and School of Energy Resources.
Free stress relief clinic: 10-11 a.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
University of Wyoming graduation ceremony: 10 a.m., Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts, for the College of Law.
University of Wyoming graduation ceremony: 12:15 p.m., UW Arena-Auditorium, for master’s and doctoral students from colleges of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business, Education, Engineering and Applied Science, Health Sciences and Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources.
University of Wyoming graduation ceremony: 3:30 p.m., UW Arena-Auditorium, for undergraduate ceremony for colleges of Arts and Sciences, Education, Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources and Office of Academic Affairs.
May 16
Alcoholics Anonymous meets: Daily at various times in person or on Zoom. For more information, call 307-399-0590 or visit area76aawyoming.org or aa.org.
Survivors of Suicide Support Group: Meets from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Hospice of Laramie House, 1754 Centennial Drive.
Women for Sobriety meet: 6:30-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting details, email 1093@womenforsobriety.org.
May 17
Prayers & Squares Quilting Group meets: 9 a.m., Room 1 of Hunter Hall at St. Matthews Cathedral.
Free stress relief clinic: 1-2 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 18
Laramie Tai Chi and tea: Meets at 1:30 p.m. at the north end of the stadium in Laramie Plainsman Park, North 15th and Reynolds. For more information, visit laramietaichiandtea.org.
Ivinson Medical Group women’s health prenatal education: 5:30 p.m., Ivinson Memorial Hospital in the Summit Conference Room. Learn more or register at ivinsonhospital.org/childbirth.
May 19
Caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s/dementia: 3 p.m., meet for coffee, pie, understanding and comradeship at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 204 S. 30th St. For more information, call 307-745-6451.
Stitching the Past Together creative aging class: 6:30-8 p.m., Albany County Public Library large meeting room. Students will learn memory-based storytelling through beading techniques in this free course. Register at acplwy.org or at the circulation desk.
May 20
Albany County CattleWomen meet: 11:30 a.m., location tbd. Visit wyaccw.com in the week before the meeting for location and more information.
Free stress relief clinic: Noon to 1 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 21
Free stress relief clinic: 10-11 a.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 23
Alcoholics Anonymous meets: Daily at various times in person or on Zoom. For more information, call 307-399-0590 or visit area76aawyoming.org or aa.org.
Survivors of Suicide Support Group: Meets from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Hospice of Laramie House, 1754 Centennial Drive.
Women for Sobriety meet: 6:30-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting details, email 1093@womenforsobriety.org.
America Sewing Guild Laramie Chapter meets: 7 p.m., United Methodist Church, 1215 E. Gibbon St. Please enter through the lower east door off the parking lot.
May 24
Prayers & Squares Quilting Group meets: 9 a.m., Room 1 of Hunter Hall at St. Matthews Cathedral.
Free stress relief clinic: 1-2 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 25
Laramie Tai Chi and tea: Meets at 1:30 p.m. at the north end of the stadium in Laramie Plainsman Park, North 15th and Reynolds. For more information, visit laramietaichiandtea.org.
May 26
Caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s/dementia: 3 p.m., meet for coffee, pie, understanding and comradeship at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 204 S. 30th St. For more information, call 307-745-6451.
Stitching the Past Together creative aging class: 6:30-8 p.m., Albany County Public Library large meeting room. Students will learn memory-based storytelling through beading techniques in this free course. Register at acplwy.org or at the circulation desk.
May 27
Free stress relief clinic: Noon to 1 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 28
Free stress relief clinic: 10-11 a.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
May 30
Alcoholics Anonymous meets: Daily at various times in person or on Zoom. For more information, call 307-399-0590 or visit area76aawyoming.org or aa.org.
Survivors of Suicide Support Group: Meets from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Hospice of Laramie House, 1754 Centennial Drive.
Women for Sobriety meet: 6:30-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting details, email 1093@womenforsobriety.org.
May 31
Prayers & Squares Quilting Group meets: 9 a.m., Room 1 of Hunter Hall at St. Matthews Cathedral.
Free stress relief clinic: 1-2 p.m., Laramie Plains Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
Have an event for What’s Happening? Send it to Managing Editor Greg Johnson at gjohnson@laramieboomerang.com.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/announcements/whats-happening/article_15d48db1-3897-5cfb-b684-c85ffa0d95ff.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:07Z
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HELENA, Mont. — For the past year a company that “mines” cryptocurrency had what seemed the ideal location for its thousands of power-thirsty computers working around the clock to verify bitcoin transactions: the grounds of a coal-fired power plant in rural Montana.
But with the cryptocurrency industry under increasing pressure to rein in the environmental impact of its massive electricity consumption, Marathon Digital Holdings made the decision to pack up its computers, called miners, and relocate them to a wind farm in Texas.
“For us, it just came down to the fact that we don’t want to be operating on fossil fuels,” said company CEO Fred Thiel.
In the world of bitcoin mining, access to cheap and reliable electricity is everything. But many economists and environmentalists have warned that as the still widely misunderstood digital currency grows in price — and with it popularity — the process of mining that is central to its existence and value is becoming increasingly energy intensive and potentially unsustainable.
Bitcoin was was created in 2009 as a new way of paying for things that would not be subject to central banks or government oversight. While it has yet to widely catch on as a method of payment, it has seen its popularity as a speculative investment surge despite volatility that can cause its price to swing wildly. In March 2020, one bitcoin was worth just over $5,000. That surged to a record of more than $67,000 in November 2021 before falling to just over $35,000 in January.
Central to bitcoin's technology is the process through which transactions are verified and then recorded on what's known as the blockchain. Computers connected to the bitcoin network race to solve complex mathematical calculations that verify the transactions, with the winner earning newly minted bitcoins as a reward. Currently, when a machine solves the puzzle, its owner is rewarded with 6.25 bitcoins — worth about $260,000 total. The system is calibrated to release 6.25 bitcoins every 10 minutes.
When bitcoin was first invented it was possible to solve the puzzles using a regular home computer, but the technology was designed so problems become harder to solve as more miners work on them. Those mining today use specialized machines that have no monitors and look more like a high-tech fan than a traditional computer. The amount of energy used by computers to solve the puzzles grows as more computers join the effort and puzzles are made more difficult.
Marathon Digital, for example, currently has about 37,000 miners, but hopes to have 199,000 online by early next year, the company said.
Determining how much energy the industry uses is difficult because not all mining companies report their use and some operations are mobile, moving storage containers full of miners around the country chasing low-cost power.
The Cambridge Bitcoin Electricity Consumption Index estimates bitcoin mining used about 109 terrawatt hours of electricity over the past year — close to the amount used in Virginia in 2020, according to the U.S. Energy Information Center. The current usage rate would work out to 143 TWh over a full year, or about the amount used by Ohio or New York state in 2020.
Cambridge's estimate does not include energy used to mine other cryptocurrencies.
A key moment in the debate over bitcoin’s energy use came last spring, when just weeks after Tesla Motors said it was buying $1.5 billion in bitcoin and would also accept the digital currency as payment for electric vehicles, CEO Elon Musk joined critics in calling out the industry’s energy use and said the company would no longer be taking it as payment.
Some want the government to step in with regulation.
In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul is being pressured to declare a moratorium on the so-called proof-of-work mining method — the one bitcoin uses — and to deny an air quality permit for a project at a retrofitted coal-fired power plant that runs on natural gas.
A New York State judge recently ruled the project would not impact the air or water of nearby Seneca Lake.
“Repowering or expanding coal and gas plants to make fake money in the middle of a climate crisis is literally insane,” Yvonne Taylor, vice president of Seneca Lake Guardians, said in a statement.
Anne Hedges with the Montana Environmental Information Center said that before Marathon Digital showed up, environmental groups had expected the coal-fired power plant in Hardin, Montana, to close.
“It was a death watch,” Hedges said. “We were getting their quarterly reports. We were looking at how much they were operating. We were seeing it continue to decline year after year — and last year that totally changed. It would have gone out of existence but for bitcoin.”
The cryptocurrency industry “needs to find a way to reduce its energy demand,” and needs to be regulated, Hedges said. “That’s all there is to it. This is unsustainable.”
Some say the solution is to switch from proof-of-work verification to proof-of-stake verification, which is already used by some cryptocurrencies. With proof of stake, verification of digital currency transfers is assigned to computers, rather than having them compete. People or groups that stake more of their cryptocurrency are more likely to get the work — and the reward.
While the method uses far less electricity, some critics argue proof-of-stake blockchains are less secure.
Some companies in the industry acknowledge there is a problem and are committing to achieving net-zero emissions — adding no greenhouse gases to the atmosphere — from the electricity they use by 2030 by signing onto a Crypto Climate Accord, modeled after the Paris Climate Agreement.
“All crypto communities should work together, with urgency, to ensure crypto does not further exacerbate global warming, but instead becomes a net positive contributor to the vital transition to a low carbon global economy,” the accord states.
Marathon Digital is one of several companies pinning its hopes on tapping into excess renewable energy from solar and wind farms in Texas. Earlier this month the companies Blockstream Mining and Block, formerly Square, announced they were breaking ground in Texas on a small, off-the-grid mining facility using Tesla solar panels and batteries.
“This is a step to proving our thesis that bitcoin mining can fund zero-emission power infrastructure," said Adam Back, CEO and co-founder of Blockstream.
Companies argue that cryptocurrency mining can provide an economic incentive to build more renewable energy projects and help stabilize power grids. Miners give renewable energy generators a guaranteed customer, making it easier for the projects to get financing and generate power at their full capacity.
The mining companies are able to contract for lower-priced energy because “all the energy they use can be shut off and given back to the grid at a moment’s notice,” said Thiel.
In Pennsylvania, Stronghold Digital is cleaning up hundreds of years of coal waste by burning it to create what the state classifies as renewable energy that can be sent to the grid or used in bitcoin mining, depending on power demands.
Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection is a partner in the work, which uses relatively new technology to burn the waste coal more efficiently and with fewer emissions. Left alone, piles of waste coal can catch fire and burn for years, releasing greenhouse gases. When wet, the waste coal leaches acid into area waterways.
After using the coal waste to generate electricity, what’s left is “toxicity-free fly ash,” which is registered by the state as a clean fertilizer, Stronghold Digital spokesperson Naomi Harrington said.
As Marathon Digital gradually moves its 30,000 miners out of Montana, it's leaving behind tens of millions of dollars in mining infrastructure behind.
Just because Marathon doesn’t want to use coal-fired power anymore doesn’t mean there won’t be another bitcoin miner to take its place. Thiel said he assumes the power plant owners will find a company to do just that.
“No reason not to,” he said.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/bitcoin-s-new-puzzle-how-to-ditch-fossil-fuels/article_33624a80-c505-5340-b985-8bbafe853115.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:13Z
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BUFFALO — Buffalo will make its HGTV debut later this month as the episode of “Home Town Kickstart” featuring Buffalo — and kicking off the series — airs Sunday.
“Home Town Kickstart” features the revitalization of six small towns, consisting of the renovation of a public space, a business and the home of a “local hero.” It is a spinoff of other HGTV “Home Town” shows that feature hosts Ben and Erin Napier.
HGTV hosts Ty Pennington and Jasmine Roth, known for such shows as “Rock the Block” and “Help! I Wrecked My House,” were chosen to spearhead Buffalo's rejuvenation.
Film crews spent more than a month at the end of 2021 working on different projects in Buffalo. The three revitalization projects included the mural on the side of city hall, the makeover of the Buffalo Theater and the remodel of a "local hero's" home.
While the renovation projects will make their television debut at the end of April, Buffalo residents have been enjoying the new assets for months.
The city hall mural was unveiled in December as city staff and curious onlookers watched.
City-Clerk Treasurer Julie Silbernagel got her first look at the mural on camera, as Pennington and Roth led her down the sidewalk in front of city hall.
While the concept of the mural was created by HGTV and approved by the city, the artistry was done by Jason Jespersen, a local artist. The project was completed at no cost to the city.
Buffalo residents have taken advantage of the new and improved movie theater since January, when the theater opened after a two-year hiatus. When it opened, it had new flooring, a fresh coat of paint and a handful of more modern design touches.
HGTV has not yet identified the local hero selected for the show.
The “Home Town” series of shows began in 2016 with the debut of “Home Town,” a show about the Napiers' renovations of homes in their hometown of Laurel, Mississippi. Subsequently, they added “Home Town Takeover” to the lineup and then “Home Town Kickstart.”
Other small towns featured in “Home Town Kickstart” will be Cornwall, New York; Winslow, Arizona; LaGrange, Kentucky; Thomaston, Georgia; and Minden, Louisiana. Buffalo is the smallest of those cities, and Cornwall is the largest with a population of 12,646.
Episodes will air weekly at 6 p.m. on HGTV beginning Sunday.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/buffalo-to-make-debut-on-hgtv/article_11c0371b-db14-5a24-b597-7261bf0657e6.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:19Z
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CODY — Zack Robinson had no desire to live. The drugs he was addicted to left him numb, rendering him emotionless, without any joy or pain to feel.
“I wasn’t alive or living, I was just existing,” he said.
Robinson, 43, is a recovering addict who recently graduated from the Park County Court Supervised Treatment Program. He has been sober for 427 consecutive days.
“It’s incredible to watch what you’ve seen and done,” said Jackie Fales during his graduation in April.
Fales is a family program facilitator for Cedar Mountain Center and peer support specialist at Cody Regional Behavioral Health, graduating from Drug Court herself in 2018.
Robinson said the desire to escape trauma was what initially fueled his addiction, having seen multiple friends murdered.
He said he turned to drugs in order to numb these haunting memories.
He said deflecting this trauma was what allowed his addiction to grow, but he looks at active addiction as a trauma in itself.
“You use drugs to cover up the trauma and stuff you don’t want to face until the drugs no longer work and now you’re left with the pain and trauma you were dealing with in the first place, plus the pain and trauma of the addiction,” he said.
Robinson moved from drinking alcohol when he was 10 years old to smoking marijuana in junior high school. By the time he had thrown out his arm playing baseball in college, he had moved on to a stronger substance in meth.
“I took it pretty far pretty quick,” he said.
Robinson, a Powell native, lived all over Wyoming while growing up and graduated from Rawlins High School. He moved back to the Cody area around eight years ago.
Robinson was found guilty of felony drug possession in 2017. Despite attending Cedar Mountain Center in 2018, he broke his probation twice in 2019. Even before trying to turn himself in for breaking probation, Robinson realized he needed to make a change in his life. He started reading literature while awaiting his prison sentence at the Park County Detention Center.
“I didn’t think I would ever not be hooked on drugs,” he said. “I thought I was going to die that way.”
In the literal 11th hour, less than 60 minutes before his sentencing hearing, Robinson was given a last chance to turn himself around by voluntarily enrolling in the Supervised Treatment Program, also known as Drug Court. It was an opportunity he did not take for granted, fully immersing himself with everything the program had to offer when he started in February 2021.
“It’s a daily thing you have to work on, that I have to work on,” he said. “If I’m not working toward recovery, I’m working toward active addiction.”
Drug Court is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to assisting participants with breaking the cycle of substance abuse and crimes committed as a result thereof. Only those charged with a crime are eligible to participate and must undergo a screening process that involves multiple factors, including drug and alcohol and risk assessments.
Shannon Votaw, program director for Drug Court, said if candidates are determined to be eligible based on these criteria, the court is notified and it’s up to the sentencing judge in their case whether they are allowed to enter the program.
Drug Court is designed to provide sentencing alternatives to non-violent offenders who have committed substance abuse. Participants must be admitted to the program and must either submit an admission to breaking probation, or guilty or a no contest plea on their charged offense. Completing the program typically takes 12-18 months, Votaw said.
There are 16 drug court programs throughout the state. As part of the government spending bill that was passed in March, $80 million will be devoted to funding drug court programs throughout the country.
“They’re just the starting point for you,” Robinson said. “They’re just guiding you to a better life.”
Within Drug Court, Robinson found a community he could call his own, that showed him love and happiness for life and a vision for a higher purpose. He made attending support groups a near daily routine, which he continues to this day. Robinson spent his day off from work last Wednesday attending a Drug Court session.
“They showed me there is a different life you can live, but you need people for that,” he said. “I can have all the books in the world, and all the knowledge, but if I don’t have my support circle I don’t have anything.”
While he was in the Drug Court program, three of Robinson’s friends took their own lives because of addiction.
He said if he hadn’t been seeking treatment during these events, he would’ve “been dead or living dead,” depending on drugs to cope with this trauma, but instead was able to view these losses from a recovery point of view.
“They showed me in concrete, and let me feel this is a deadly disease,” he said.
Robinson moved through the five-phase program, transitioning from active addiction to recovery, becoming a role model for other participants. Enrollees start the program by attending four, three-hour sessions a week, with each group offering a different focus like relapse prevention and self-awareness. As they work through the program, the responsibilities are reduced, putting the onus on participants to create their own structure.
“Once you take the drugs away … you have to fill that with something,” Robinson said. “It becomes filling it with something positive.”
Robinson has fully embraced the service aspect of the program and speaks at Cedar Mountain Center about his life story. He said he was touched when a patient approached him recently and asked if he would do the fifth step with them. The fifth step of the recovery process is admitting to God, yourself and another human being the exact nature of your wrongs.
“If I can say one thing that reaches someone about my story or my troubles that helps them in their recovery, then all that pain and suffering I went through is completely worth it just to reach one person,” he said.
Robinson surrounds himself with people in recovery and support as a reminder of the task at hand, crediting others for the improved life he keeps today.
“Everything that keeps me moving forward I learned in those places from those people,” he said.
For Robinson and other recovering addicts, their addictions will never be solved, cured or fixed. It takes their constant dedication and resiliency to live a sober life, holding themselves to a higher standard than most others in society because of the choices they made earlier in their lives. Robinson said not a day goes by that he isn’t taking steps toward his recovery and he looks at his graduation from Drug Court as just the beginning of his “other life.”
“I’m standing as living proof, this works,” he told the audience through tears at his graduation in the Park County Circuit Courtroom on April 1.
During his graduation, Robinson was surrounded by friends, family and counselors – all making up a strong support group he will continue to lean on for the rest of his life, just as they will lean on him.
“Look at all the people in this crowd today – it’s a testament to what you’ve given back to the recovery community – that’s why this room is packed right now,” Votaw said.
Many do not get a second chance as Robinson did. Often, repeat offenders will be sent to prison to serve their sentence. Robinson said although it is possible to gain recovery while incarcerated, where some treatment and counseling services are provided, he finds it an unlikely scenario.
“I don’t think that’s a real way to get recovery,” Robinson said.
Drug Court has been hosting a variety of community outreach events like an Honor Recovery celebration held at City Park last September and a free movie showing of “Tipping the Pain Scale,” a documentary on the opioid crisis, held at Big Horn Cinemas last month.
Poet and educator Joseph Green is profiled in the movie. Green visits elementary classrooms to help the students better express their emotions and learn how to handle the challenges of life. Green and others in the movie promoted the idea that by instilling children with these lessons, they will be less likely to turn to drugs as a way to cope with trauma and adversity down the road.
Robinson plans to continue speaking at CMC and attending Drug Court sessions for the foreseeable future. With a new contingency of members enrolled in Drug Court, he said the time is ripe to continue making a positive difference in the lives of others.
“It helps remind me where I was in the beginning,” he said of working with new members.
He said he would be interested in pursuing this as a lifelong profession as a unit coordinator at CMC someday. Many of these unit coordinators are still in his life today.
“Those people are amazing to me because they’re just trying to help people have a better life and they really don’t expect anything in return,” Robinson said.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/graduating-to-a-new-life-through-drug-court/article_83b0331f-9aba-590e-9b35-7cdf00f41e05.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:25Z
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For a group of Laramie High School students, taking tests and studying doesn’t end when the bell rings.
Through the school’s academic decathlon program, students are broadening their knowledge of academic subjects and real-world situations.
They’re good at it, too.
The group recently brought home more than 20 medals from the Wyoming DECA state competition in Casper and are set to compete virtually in the national competition Friday.
“It was a great opportunity to study different subjects,” said Josh Liu, who earned five gold medals at state. “I hadn’t done proper essays before (academic decathlon).”
The competition entails 10 “events” or challenges that have to do with some area of academia or job preparation, such as essay writing, a multiple choice test, public speaking or interviewing. The events focus on broad subject areas such as art, music, social science or mathematics. As if that isn’t varied enough, each year’s competition also follows a theme. This year’s was water.
The group of LHS competitors spend the school year studying for the competition, meeting every Wednesday during lunch to prepare. Some days of preparation were more difficult than others, as the students balanced the club with their other classes and testing.
In addition to doing math problems, their work also involves a good amount of laughing and eating from the club’s beloved giant red candy bowl.
“We’re a family,” said competitor Grace Zhou, who won a handful of medals in Casper.
For some DECA students, the program has been an opportunity to build confidence and practice important academic and life skills without having to worry about grades or test scores.
“I was really shy. I still am,” said Mairin Sims, who won seven medals. The speech portion of competition “was scary, but it made me feel more in touch with myself.”
Student Anenyasha Nyamadzaro echoed the sentiment, saying that she liked that the decathlon allowed brackets for competitors’ GPA and ability levels.
“Academic decathlon welcomes everyone,” said Nichol Bondurant, teacher and the group’s coach. “You don’t have to be a superstar. You can do your best and be well-rounded.”
The competition requires teams meet a minimum requirement for GPA diversity. Because too many of the LHS competitors are honors students, they competed as individuals rather than the team category.
Liu won first place as the state’s all-around individual, and Sims was second.
Even the students who didn’t get a gold medal touted the benefits of the event, from enjoying time together in an arcade during their trip to state and feeling more prepared for the standardized tests looming in their futures.
“It’s kind of hard, but we became close and we have our club jokes,” Bondurant said.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/lhs-students-see-deca-dent-success-at-academic-decathlon/article_af1bda67-dfe0-5320-87db-7c333ee07e31.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:31Z
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/local_news/arrest_record_and_police_calls/felony-arrest/article_461ca50b-8144-5d79-87d7-eab521051c4f.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:38Z
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There are two clear frontrunners in the campaign to represent Wyoming as the state’s sole member of the House of Representatives when it comes to total amount raised in contributions so far.
Although U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney was censured by the national and state GOP in February, she still managed to raise the highest amount of financial contributions in the first quarter among the several contenders, at $2.94 million. This put her ahead of Donald Trump-endorsed challenger and environmental attorney Harriet Hageman by nearly $1.62 million.
Cheney filed her quarterly report Friday with the Federal Election Commission, showing that among her considerable financial prowess for the race, her campaign received $2.52 million from individuals. The campaign got close to $90,000 in contributions from other committees, such as political action committees, and nearly $415,000 was transferred from additional authorized committees.
Cheney’s campaign spokesman, Jeremy Adler, told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle this week that the campaign didn’t wish to comment about fundraising.
Hageman reported $1.32 million in first quarter receipts. She has now received 21,000 donations since the start of her campaign in September.
“It is an honor to have such support, and I pledge to always reflect the views and values of the people of Wyoming when I am in Congress,” Hageman said in a statement last week. “This is Wyoming’s seat in the House, not one individual’s.”
She received $1.29 million in total contributions from individuals, but had to refund $10,000. Other political committees donated around $58,000, and authorized transfers from committees were much lower than Cheney at $23,000.
Besides Cheney and Hageman, there are four additional candidates vying for the seat so far. But there is still opportunity for others to announce their bid for the seat, as the official filing period for candidates is May 12-27. All of these additional candidates, except for one, have come nowhere near even the $500,000 mark since last year.
Race for contributions
“Fundraising is important, to a point,” University of Wyoming professor of political science Jim King told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle by phone Wednesday. “Money allows for a lot of things. It allows for flying between events, rather than driving. It allows for more offices where the candidate can get material out. It can allow for more advertising on television. But it reaches a threshold where having money is not necessarily an extreme advantage.”
The expert said the kind of money the two frontrunners have is still a significant campaign driving force, and gives them money to put their message out louder and clearer than candidates with less funds.
State Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Cheyenne, was one of the earliest challengers to announce his intention to run against the incumbent Cheney in the 2022 primary. He is the only one who has come close to the kinds of donations Cheney and Hageman are pulling. Since his announcement, he has raised close to $650,000, and came in third overall for total contributions in the first quarter.
Bouchard raised around $10,000 in total contributions in the most recent quarter, but he spent twice that in operating expenditures. The right-wing lawmaker has seen a decline in his financial support throughout the past year, with a $15,000 drop in donations from the fourth quarter of 2021.
However, in comparison to the other three candidates with smaller campaigns, he still has significant cash on hand. At the end of the reporting period, there was close to $50,000 left in his Anthony Bouchard for Congress committee account.
Republican primary contenders Denton Knapp and Casey William Hardison hold less than $7,000 in cash on hand combined, and the number of donations they received were limited. Hardison received one itemized donation of $1,000 in the first quarter, and also loaned $1,000 to the campaign. Knapp received nine donations totaling $5,475.
Constitution Party candidate Marissa Selvig came in last place in the fundraising race so far. She raised $211.35 in total contributions in the first quarter, and has close to $2,600 in cash on hand.
King said the money the contenders raise now is meant to last them to the general election, and what they spend at the start of the year is nowhere near what it will become this summer.
“What they’re spending their money on is, in essence, getting ready for the sprint that will start toward the Aug. 16 primary sometime in May or June,” he said. “They’re getting their infrastructure together. They’re getting their staff together. They’re planning their media advertisements, but they’re not actually spending their money.”
Cheney spent nearly $900,000 in the first quarter, but still had $6.67 million left in cash on hand. Hageman expended $640,000 between January and March, and has more than $1 million moving forward.
The three candidates who raised the least have less than $10,000 combined left over in their reserves, and spent more than half of what they raised in the first quarter.
One similarity revealed in the finance reports of many of the candidates was the impact of donors from outside of Wyoming.
Candidates such as Cheney and Hageman received significant support across the nation, but even smaller campaigns were attracting out-of-state dollars. Knapp received nine donations in total this quarter, and two were recorded with Wyoming mailing addresses.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/rivals-far-behind-cheney-hageman-in-q1-contributions/article_8e614321-b0ba-536f-bdc2-6a0003124ae3.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:44Z
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If you’re noticing that your money doesn’t go as far as it used to, you’re not alone, new economic statistics confirm.
Statewide, the inflation rate for the fourth quarter of last year was a whopping 9.3% higher than it was in the same three-month period of 2021. That was the highest increase since 1981 from one quarter in a given year versus the same quarter in the previous year, according to the latest Wyoming Cost of Living Index.
If you think moving outside the state will help stretch your dollars further, you may be out of luck. That’s because, as Wyoming’s Economic Analysis Division noted in a report sent via email late Monday afternoon, the national rate of inflation from December 2020 to December 2021 was 7%, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics via its own Consumer Price Index.
The bottom line when it comes to business profitability and consumer spending is that inflation is putting the squeeze on many of our wallets, pocketbooks and financial accounts. A Wyoming cab company affirmed that experience, with its owner saying Tuesday that its customers also are feeling the effects of inflation.
In interviews, several economists indicated that such experiences may not be unique, given rising prices are affecting many parts of the economy.
One economist said that what all “this means to the average consumer in Wyoming” is that “discretionary income (the stuff you spend on a coffee in the morning at the drive-through, your content subscriptions like Netflix and Apple TV, etc.) will be squeezed.” This expert, Anne Alexander from the University of Wyoming, said that several factors broadly are contributing to rising prices.
Russia’s war in Ukraine, for instance, “has massively influenced both energy prices and food prices. This won’t ease until the war is over,” Alexander wrote in an email Wednesday. On top of that, much production has shut down in China due to COVID-19 precautions, she noted. “This will cause supply chains to kink up again. This may be more temporary, but it will still bite.”
In Laramie County, it costs a little bit more to live locally than on average in the state, the Economic Analysis Division has found.
The Comparative Cost of Living Index for the county that includes Cheyenne was 105 in the fourth quarter of last year, versus 100 statewide. Only two counties were higher in the state, with Teton County coming in at 168. Second-highest at 108 was Lincoln-Afton, with a much lower cost of living compared to the county that includes Jackson.
Housing prices
Housing prices, which make up the biggest share of the cost of living, were relatively high in both Laramie and Teton counties, the statistics showed.
The average two-bedroom apartment was renting for $974 a month in Laramie County, and going for a stunning $2,780 monthly in Teton County. This represented a 7.4% increase from the same three-month period at the end of 2020 and a 12.4% hike in Teton County.
If you think that renting a house, instead of an apartment, is a better deal, think again. In both counties, as well as across the state on average, prices to rent a single-family home with two or three bedrooms rose by an even greater percentage than what it costs to rent an apartment.
Economic figures, anecdotal experiences and other trends show that, simply put, there is a housing crunch in our state. This holds true as well as in many other places in the U.S.
“There is a demand for housing, and the supply isn’t there,” Amy Bittner, who put together the new report, said Tuesday.
“Some of that demand might be partially due to some of the COVID stuff,” noted Bittner, who is the principal economist at the Economic Analysis Division. “You had people who had the opportunity to remote work and maybe decided to move to” new areas, she continued. COVID-19 has spurred such mobility, including to less-populated areas from even more expensive large metropolitan regions.
A separate report from the Center for Business and Economic Analysis at Laramie County Community College shows just how much housing prices have escalated.
Laramie County homes, on average, have been above the half-a-million-dollar threshold for their selling prices.
The center reports the average selling price rose 14.4% over the course of last year to a record $514,793. Houses in Cheyenne itself are more affordable, up by 11% to $331,048. A key reason for the gap is that homes in the county outside of Cheyenne may be larger, have larger plots of land and have extra buildings such as barns, said the Center for Business and Economic Analysis’s director, Nick Colsch.
Gas costs
The second biggest contributor to what it costs to live in a particular area, according to the Wyoming Cost of Living Index and other research, relates to transportation.
In Wyoming, these costs rose 22.1% in 2021’s fourth quarter from the year-ago period, versus a rise of 8.3% for food.
Automobile-related things that come under these costs include prices for gasoline, new and used cars, auto insurance, auto repairs and even oil changes, Bittner said.
Gas prices have been surging. Many consumers and professional truckers have told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle in recent months that they’re feeling the pain at the gas pump.
On Wednesday, in Wyoming, as well as nationwide, a gallon of regular-grade unleaded gas would cost you an average of about $4.11 a gallon, according to the AAA association of motorists. That’s barely less than the statewide record, and a jump of some 40% from just a year ago.
“Gasoline is a large part of that category” for transportation costs, Bittner said. “We had pretty high gasoline prices over the year(long) time period.
“I think a lot of consumers, even without looking at my report, felt it, saw it,” she said of the surging prices at the pump.
That has been the case at Cheyenne cab company Cowboy Shuttle.
Like other businesses, it is having a hard time hiring. Bittner and other experts note that because the tight job market often leads to higher wages, this, too, contributes to inflation.
The company has four drivers, but it has six cabs, according to its owner, Pat Schumacher. If she could find the people, she said she would immediately hire perhaps another four drivers.
“We have a lot of business. Our wait times are horrendous, because we do not have the drivers to supply the need,” Schumacher said. “That’s what we are struggling with.”
Increased gas costs, plus surging auto insurance rates, mean Schumacher could consider raising some prices.
“If it raises much more, it’s eating us alive, and we’re working for free,” she said of gas, which she noted costs about $250 a day for her fleet.
Relief in sight?
If you are hoping that price increases will moderate, relief might be in sight.
Although some Biden administration efforts have not generally been well received in Wyoming, they may help reduce the rate of inflation. “As these policy changes really start taking hold,” the rate that prices are increasing may rise by a smaller amount, perhaps starting in the summer, according to Colsch.
President Joe Biden’s plan to release oil from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve could push down gas prices, economists note. The Federal Reserve gradually raising interest rates may also help tamp down demand for homes, automobiles and other major purchases.
“It will encourage people to save more money, which sort of pulls some money out of the economy,” which “may slow down the growth in prices,” Colsch said by phone.
Many say that when companies raise prices, that particularly hurts lower-income people.
“Those at the lowest income levels or on fixed incomes, like retired persons, will be impacted the hardest because their discretionary income, if they have it, is already pretty thin,” wrote Alexander, who is vice provost for strategic planning & initiatives at UW.
“I’m really trying to be very considerate of our people. Because we do take a lot of people on fixed incomes, who do not have a lot of choices other than the city buses” or to pay for a cab, Cowboy Shuttle’s Schumacher said. “It’s a tough situation for a lot of people.”
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/the-inflation-equation-across-wyoming-your-money-doesnt-go-as-far-as-it-used-to/article_b83c25de-a0dc-55c1-be7c-116f0a0c2f54.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:50Z
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GILLETTE — When people walk into the library’s video recording studio, it will be hard for them to miss the massive green screen that can be either dropped down or rolled up as an easy-to-edit backdrop.
The studio also features top-notch audio and microphone capabilities, prime lighting and an easy way to create video footage in a safe space.
The studio can be used for free by anyone looking for a space to record an advertisement for his new business, students filming a speech or even someone in search of good lighting for his newest TikTok video.
And that’s the message that Johanna Tuttle will explain to people next week when she promotes the relatively new video recording studio at Campbell County Public Library during a tour and overview of the studio that starts at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Using the lab is pretty simple, which should be exciting for those who don’t have extensive experience in the field of technology.
“I knew nothing about it, and I decided, ‘Look there are some instructions and I’m going to see what I can make happen,’” she said.
A brief set of instructions is pinned to the wall for all users.
Using the setup is as simple as bringing a flash drive, plugging it in and turning the video camera on. Once that’s all set, all one needs to do is click “capture” on the computer.
There’s a bit of a delay between when a person speaks and when the computer shows a person speaking, so Tuttle recommends simply looking at the camera. The audio for the video is fantastic, and the best part is that people don’t even have to edit it.
“It’s like studio quality audio and you don’t have to do anything,” she said.
From there, a user can save the video onto the flash drive and take it to the digitization station where Camtasia, Premiere Pro and Adobe Suite are available for editing
The station also can transfer treasured baby movies or wedding videos on VHS tapes to CDs or DVDs. Negatives, photos and slides can also be digitized.
Tuttle discovered the video editing equipment through LinkedIn Learning, a program provided to library card holders through the state library. It provides video courses taught by experts free of charge, so she recommends people check the videos if they need more help — or ask a staff member.
Because the studio is reserved for four-hour blocks at a time, Tuttle said it’s preferred that people call before coming in to use the equipment.
Studies have shown that short videos are the new form of advertising or promoting new material, Tuttle said.
“Videos are just more engaging, especially if you’re not a professional photographer,” she said.
Tuttle hopes people take the time to come in and learn about the studio Wednesday and said that if there’s time, people can bring a USB drive and possibly record something of their own to take home.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/this-could-be-you-video-lab-at-gillette-library-opens-new-opportunities/article_f0af9eb9-0ccc-5427-ae1d-5ec3503a9c98.html
| 2022-04-22T14:23:56Z
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/wanted-your-yellowstone-memories/article_8905fe2b-b063-5fcb-9bf1-7f8f930fc0d4.html
| 2022-04-22T14:24:02Z
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CASPER — Wyoming’s senior population grew by over 40% from 2010 to 2020 — the second-fastest rate in the nation, according to research from AginginPlace.org, an online resource hub for seniors.
The group compared 2010 and 2020 demographic statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau to figure out how states’ age groups have changed.
Across that decade, the number of Wyomingites above age 65 grew from 12.4% to 17.8% — an increase of about 43.6%.
That rate was second only to Alaska, where the number of senior citizens increased by roughly 70%.
From 2018 to 2019, the growth of Wyoming’s senior population outpaced the rest of the nation, according to a fact sheet from Wyoming’s Economic Analysis Division.
The fact sheet attributes that change to the aging Baby Boomer generation and the emigration of younger Wyomingites to other states.
When it comes to average age, Wyoming’s still middle-of-the-road. According to census data, the state had the 20th oldest population in 2020, and the median age hovers around late 30s. Since 2010, the overall adult population has grown by 10.4%.
Meanwhile, the percentage of people under age 18 fell by 1.4%.
Despite Wyoming’s aging population, the state is below average when it comes to options for senior care. In its 2020 scoreboard, AARP ranked the state 41st in the nation for choice of setting and care provider.
For those who want to age-in-place, a new housing initiative under Wyoming’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is giving grants for personal care services and disability access modifications.
The Housing Stability Services program, which launched during the summer of 2021, serves adults ages 55 or older and people with disabilities, as long as they’re eligible for ERAP. Each applicant can receive up to $5,000 in assistance.
For information about how to apply for the program, visit health. wyo.gov/aging.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/wyoming-s-senior-population-grows-40/article_49119644-97d0-565b-85de-f42f5dc87e58.html
| 2022-04-22T14:24:08Z
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CODY — After years of decline, the regional moose population is starting to show a small comeback in numbers, Game and Fish officials reported recently.
G&F Wildlife Biologist Bart Kroger said in the Worland District, which includes the Meeteetse area, there is a higher prevalence for moose than 10 years ago, with about 25% growth over the last decade.
“Things are looking better for moose in Cody and Meeteetse country,” Kroger said, citing an even cow to calf ratio over the last few years and “lots of calves being born.”
Kroger said moose numbers started to decline about 30 years ago and have remained at lower levels ever since.
In many ways moose are a testament to the fragility of environmental pressures.
Kroger attributed the increased presence of wolves – one of moose’s biggest threats – to part of their decline. But he and Tony Mong, wildlife biologist for the Cody region, said there are a variety of other factors that can lead to their demise — like disease. Kroger said moose populations were already declining before the re-introduction of the wolf to the Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Park County commissioner Lee Livingston said a “trifecta” of the 1988 Yellowstone fires, wolves and grizzly bears — a species he has lobbied for removal from Endangered Species protection for many years — has caused some of the most harm to moose.
“People want to blame a bad neighbor (wolves) but an even worse neighbor moved in (grizzly bears),” he said.
He said the 1988 fires were also detrimental for moose due to the loss of the old growth trees whose moss is a food source for moose.
But a different fire may have led to improved habitat for other moose, as Kroger said the Little Venus Fire that hit the Washakie Wilderness in 2006 spurred willow growth in some of the fire-burned areas. Willow is the most significant part of the moose diet.
G&F is currently running a Meeteetse Moose Project to better analyze this herd, collaring 31 moose in Hunt Area 9 (Greybull-Owl Creek area).
“Getting some good information on those, documenting survival, habitat use, the movements of those collared moose across the landscape,” Kroger said.
Kroger said they have documented more calves and better calf survival in this hunt area. Of the moose that were collared, only three have died: one from vehicle strike, one by malnutrition/predator attack and the other by hunter harvest.
“That’s a pretty good survival rate,” he said.
He said the collared cows have video cameras on their collars that have provided a valuable insight into their daily routines. One moose was spotted spending the entire summer in the area south of Burlington before heading over to the Meeteetse Creek for winter. He has also identified two different sets of moose twins living in the Wood River and Greybull River drainages.
There will be three total moose tags given out in the Greybull-Owl Creek area, five tags for Absaroka (Hunt Area 11) and no tags once again for the Yellowstone Thorofare (Hunt Area 8).
Moose hunting is much more prevalent in the southwestern and southern regions of the state with 39 tags offered in Lincoln County and 47 tags in the Big Piney area outside of National Forest lands.
Kroger said moose hunter success has been running at 100% in his district with the median age of harvested bulls 5-years old.
County Commissioner Joe Tilden, a former hunting guide, said there was a time when 48 moose tags were given out in Hunt Area 8, a location he said was considered at one time one of the strongest moose areas in the state. Tilden said G&F started cutting these tags in half until eventually there were none.
Mong said moose populations are “slightly increasing” in the North Fork area as well. He said the species has benefited from increased management of wolves over the past five years.
The most significant change Game and Fish is proposing for moose hunting statewide this year is to increase tags in southern Wyoming and offer a limited number of antlerless moose licenses for Moose Hunt Area 26 in Lincoln County, in response to chronic moose damage reported on multiple ranches.
Proposed moose archery seasons this year will run from Sept. 1 to mid-late September, while most regular moose seasons will run from Oct. 1-Oct. 31 with a few exceptions.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/wyomings-moose-population-growing/article_39367d7d-5b1a-5dfc-9ef5-78fa964b431d.html
| 2022-04-22T14:24:15Z
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My grandson drew a picture with a caption that read: “Peace feels like sitting in a warm chair.”
At 6 years old, he understands his place of peace. It is a place where he feels safe, loved, centered and warm. His place of peace is in the safety of a chair with the sun warming his heart and looking into the magical wonders of the ocean.
At a time when the news is filled with the opposite of peace, our children — and all of us — need the security of knowing what peace feels like. We need to know what peace sounds like. We need to know what peace looks like. We all need to know where our place of peace is.
When I saw my grandson’s drawing, it reminded me of my meditation chair. It is growing old and tattered and with the wisdom of age. It has become softer, safer and stronger. It has held me for years of long hours of meditations, journaling and prayers. The spirit of these practices layer into every aging wrinkle of the chair’s fabric. I feel a sacred sense of love and kindness every morning as I sink into its safe arms — settling into my place of peace.
What does peace feel like to you? Where do you feel safe, loved, centered and warm? How often do you visit this sacred space to relax your heart and center your soul? If nothing comes to mind, it is time to find your sacred space. It is time to find your place of peace.
Find a place you can nestle into like a baby bird into a feather-lined nest. It may be a space in your home or backyard. It may be your favorite coffee shop. It may be a park or library. It may be the top of a mountain after a long hike or floating down a river in a kayak. Or it may be a beach chair with the sun on your face as you look into the wonders of the ocean.
You may be one of the lucky ones who has honed the ability to close your eyes and shut out the outside noise to find your place of peace within, anytime and anyplace.
Everyone has a different idea of peace. It doesn’t matter where your place of peace is. What matters is that you have one and visit it often. It is in this quiet, reflective space that you rejuvenate your ability to live in the moment you are given, to relax into the humanness you were meant to experience and tune into the inner calmness without the distraction of the world outside of us.
For me, I agree with the wisdom of a 6-year-old. Peace makes me feel loved, centered and warm.
“Peace feels like sitting in a warm chair.”
Pennie’s Life Lesson: Find your place of peace, and visit often.
Pennie Hunt is a Wyoming-based author, blogger and speaker. Contact her atpenniehunt@gmail.com.
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https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/opinion/contributed_columns/peace-feels-like-sitting-in-a-warm-chair/article_824f3ba2-aab8-532e-9796-14d7a0fe849a.html
| 2022-04-22T14:24:21Z
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