Wednesday, August 31, 2011
DRIVERS APPLAUD INCREASE TO 75 MPH ON TEXAS HIGHWAYS
National Motorists Assn Release
Houston, TX (MMD Newswire) August 31, 2011 -- On September 1, Texas is eliminating a years-long practice of posting different daytime and nighttime speed limits. This change has been a long time coming, according to Henry B. Stowe, an activist for the National Motorists Association.
The National Motorists Association (http://www.motorists.org/ ) was instrumental in repealing the National Maximum speed limit in 1995. Traffic engineers use speed studies to determine correct speed limits for different roadway segments. The primary factor is the prevailing speed of traffic, defined as the 85thpercentile speed. The 85thpercentile speed is where traffic accident involvement is statistically the lowest.
Stowe explains that the Texas DOT will be studying traffic flow and accident history before raising the speed limits on rural highways from 70 to 75 mph.
Stowe does not believe that every road will be changed to 75 mph. In the six county Houston area, the 65 mph environmental speed limits will remain in effect. In Liberty County, the speed limits will not change as well.
"We believe that these arbitrary distinctions are counterproductive" Stowe said. "The Houston region, an area larger than New Jersey, will retain the 65 mph speed limit to comply with the politically compromised environmental speed limits mandated in this area."
Stowe says that the removal of the nighttime cap of 65 mph is a constructive and needed change. However, regardless of the speed limit, drivers can insure safer night time travel by following a few practical rules:
1. Check headlight operation. ALWAYS replace burned out headlights.
2. Clean headlights before traveling. If lenses are discolored, there are commercially available restoration kits and professional shops that can restore the lenses to their original clarity.
3. Drive at speeds within your comfort zone. Remember that a speed limit is a limit, not a mandatory target that all motorists must travel. Faster traffic can always pass in the left lane
The National Motorists Association favors speed limits that reflect prevailing travel speeds. The 70-75 mph limits are reasonable limits for nighttime driving on good highways in good weather conditions. The National
Motorists Association urges motorists to always use their good judgment, not just speed limit signs, when adjusting their speed to accommodate existing travel conditions.
Texas Continues to Experience Extreme Wildfire Danger
Texas Forest Service Release
AUSTIN - Wildfires destroying homes in suburban and urban areas like Oklahoma City and Possum Kingdom west of Fort Worth are proof that dangerous wildfire conditions still persist. When fire breaks out near your community, it is critical to monitor media and to obey evacuation orders.
Eighty percent of wildfires occur within two miles of residential neighborhoods and suburbs. When wildfires are moving at extreme speeds, they cannot be controlled. When advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Choose a route away from the fire hazard and be alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.
When weather conditions make wildfires more likely, prepare by taking the following precautions:
. Keep firefighting tools handy, such as: ladder long enough to reach the roof, shovel, rake and buckets.
. Place connected garden hoses on all sides of the house for emergency use.
. Know all emergency exits from your house.
. Learn all routes leading out of your neighborhood.
As fires actually approach, take the following actions:
. Park your car facing the direction of escape.
. Shut off gas at the meter. Only a qualified professional can safely turn the gas back on.
. Turn off propane tanks.
. Place combustible patio furniture inside.
. Seal vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals.
. Wet down or remove shrubs within 15 feet of your residence.
. Place lawn sprinklers on roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Wet down the roof.
. Close windows, vents, doors, blinds and non combustible window coverings. Remove flammable drapes and curtains.
. Close interior doors and windows to prevent drafts.
AUSTIN - Wildfires destroying homes in suburban and urban areas like Oklahoma City and Possum Kingdom west of Fort Worth are proof that dangerous wildfire conditions still persist. When fire breaks out near your community, it is critical to monitor media and to obey evacuation orders.
Eighty percent of wildfires occur within two miles of residential neighborhoods and suburbs. When wildfires are moving at extreme speeds, they cannot be controlled. When advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Choose a route away from the fire hazard and be alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.
When weather conditions make wildfires more likely, prepare by taking the following precautions:
. Keep firefighting tools handy, such as: ladder long enough to reach the roof, shovel, rake and buckets.
. Place connected garden hoses on all sides of the house for emergency use.
. Know all emergency exits from your house.
. Learn all routes leading out of your neighborhood.
As fires actually approach, take the following actions:
. Park your car facing the direction of escape.
. Shut off gas at the meter. Only a qualified professional can safely turn the gas back on.
. Turn off propane tanks.
. Place combustible patio furniture inside.
. Seal vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals.
. Wet down or remove shrubs within 15 feet of your residence.
. Place lawn sprinklers on roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Wet down the roof.
. Close windows, vents, doors, blinds and non combustible window coverings. Remove flammable drapes and curtains.
. Close interior doors and windows to prevent drafts.
KPD SEEKS PERSON OF INTEREST IN AUGUST MURDER
Killeen Police responded to the area of Zephyr and Conder at 9:45pm on Tuesday, August 23, 2011, after receiving a 911 call telling them someone had been shot and the vehicle they were driving had wrecked. Upon the officers arrival they located a silver Suzuki SX4 that had driven through a fence and into the back yard of a residence at Zephyr and Conder. The driver was suffering from a gunshot wound to the torso; he was immediately transported to the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased by Justice of the Peace Garland Potvin at 10:58pm.
Through the investigation detectives discovered information that led them to believe a Donald Lee Mitchell Jr. may have information that is essential to this Murder. He is a 27 year old black male who is 6’4” tall and weighs 220 pounds; he has black hair and brown eyes.
Detectives are asking anyone who may know the whereabouts of Donald Lee Mitchell Jr. to call Crime Stoppers at 526-TIPS(8477) or go online at www.killeencrimestoppers.com or text KILLEEN along with tip to 274637 (CRIMES). All information is anonymous and confidential.
Fort Hood officials report Jack Mountain fire now 20% contained, Forestry Service assists
FORT HOOD PUBLIC AFFAIRS
UPDATE 2: Fort Hood fire officials reported at 4:15 p.m. Aug. 31 that the Jack Mountain fire is 20 percent contained and has burned 1,500 acres. More than 100 Fort Hood fire officials, military and Texas Forestry Service officials are working rotating shifts to fight the fire from the ground and air.
UPDATE 1: Fort Hood fire officials reported at 10 a.m. Aug that the Jack Mountain fire has consumed two power poles knocking out power to West Range Road facilities. The fire has reportedly crossed West Range Road forcing officials to close the road from Elijah Road (North) to Dalton Mountain Multi-use Range; this includes the area near Brown's Creek Multi-use Range. Texas Forestry Service aircraft are scheduled to fly over the area later today to provide a site assessment.
FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood fire officials reported at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 that a range fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain is now 10% contained. The fire poses no threat to Fort Hood buildings or personnel at this time.
All Fort Hood fire crews have been called in to fight the fire. They are expected to be working through the night. The Texas Forestry Service is also helping with assets to contain the fire. At this point, the fire has burned 750 acres on the range. Fort Hood continues to use ground and air support to help contain the fire.
UPDATE 2: Fort Hood fire officials reported at 4:15 p.m. Aug. 31 that the Jack Mountain fire is 20 percent contained and has burned 1,500 acres. More than 100 Fort Hood fire officials, military and Texas Forestry Service officials are working rotating shifts to fight the fire from the ground and air.
UPDATE 1: Fort Hood fire officials reported at 10 a.m. Aug that the Jack Mountain fire has consumed two power poles knocking out power to West Range Road facilities. The fire has reportedly crossed West Range Road forcing officials to close the road from Elijah Road (North) to Dalton Mountain Multi-use Range; this includes the area near Brown's Creek Multi-use Range. Texas Forestry Service aircraft are scheduled to fly over the area later today to provide a site assessment.
FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood fire officials reported at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 that a range fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain is now 10% contained. The fire poses no threat to Fort Hood buildings or personnel at this time.
All Fort Hood fire crews have been called in to fight the fire. They are expected to be working through the night. The Texas Forestry Service is also helping with assets to contain the fire. At this point, the fire has burned 750 acres on the range. Fort Hood continues to use ground and air support to help contain the fire.
Bel County Indictments August 31
The following cases were indicted by the Bell County Grand Jury on: Wednesday - 08/31/2011.
Arraignment has been scheduled as follows:
Ct Cause Setting Time Misc L Offense Attorney DA BD BD Amt
027 FR68638 09/15/11 AR 845 S THEFT PROP>=$1,500<$20K * VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: ARNETT, CHANDA ANNETTE
027 FR68640 09/15/11 AR 845 1 AGG SEXUAL ASSAULT MAGANA, MICHAEL J. VALLEJO, EDWARD 73 25,000
Defendant's Name: GONZALES, RUBEN GREGORY
027 FR68643 09/15/11 AR 845 S POSS CS PG 1 <1G KREIMEYER, JAMES H. VALLEJO, EDWARD 68 25,000
Defendant's Name: AMONETT, STACY DIANE
027 FR68645 09/15/11 AR 845 S CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABU * VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: DORAN, DAVID LEE
027 FR68649 09/15/11 AR 845 3 POSS CS PG 1 >=1G<4G FERGUSON, CATHERINE BARNES, WILLIAM NELSON 66 30,000
Defendant's Name: GLADDEN, LEONTA ODELL
027 FR68650 09/15/11 AR 845 2 MAN DEL CS PG 1 >=1G<4G GALLIGAN, JOHN P. BARNES, WILLIAM NELSON 0
Defendant's Name: JONES, BRETT CODY
027 FR68655 09/15/11 AR 845 1 AGG ROBBERY * BARNES, WILLIAM NELSON 0
Defendant's Name: RAINGE, DAMIANO JAMAAL
027 FR68659 09/15/11 AR 845 S FRAUD USE/POSS IDENTIFYING IN MAJOR, BUCKLEY VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: MADERE, LATOYA QUITA
027 FR68661 09/15/11 AR 845 S CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABU * VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: GONZALES, THEARIZZA DECENA
264 FR68641 09/16/11 AR 915 S POSS CS PG 1 <1G COOPER, MICHAEL R. EAKIN, DAVID 87 20,000
Defendant's Name: CRUM, DONALD RAY JR
264 FR68644 09/16/11 AR 915 S THEFT PROP>=$1,500<$20K HARRELL, MARY BETH BURNS, FRED 90 10,000
Defendant's Name: STRACENER, JESSE EARL JR
264 FR68656 09/16/11 AR 915 1 AGG ROBBERY HALL, BILLY RAY BURNS, FRED 0
Defendant's Name: DAVIDSON, IER ASHRAD
264 FR68657 09/16/11 AR 915 2 ROBBERY JEFFREY, RICHARD BURNS, FRED 0
Defendant's Name: FLEMMING, CAMERON
264 FR68660 09/16/11 AR 915 S CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABU * EAKIN, DAVID 0
Defendant's Name: TURBE, JASHLEE ANN
264 FR68663 09/16/11 AR 915 2 AGG ASSAULT W/DEADLY WEAPON MAJOR, BUCKLEY BURNS, FRED 0
Defendant's Name: JACKSON, TAMICA LASHAWN
264 FR68665 09/16/11 AR 915 S TAMPER W/GOVERN RECORD DEFRAU * EAKIN, DAVID 0
Defendant's Name: JACKSON, CORITHA ANN
426 FR68639 09/16/11 AR 845 3 ASSAULT PUBLIC SERVANT WIENER JR., JOSEPH C. STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: BROWN, IENTILE AHIA
426 FR68642 09/16/11 AR 845 3 POSS CS PG 1 >=1G<4G CORNISH, DALLAS NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BRIDGES, KENNY L
426 FR68646 09/16/11 AR 845 3 UNL POSS FIREARM BY FELON MILLER, DUANE STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: APODACA, ROBERT JOSEPH
426 FR68651 09/16/11 AR 845 S BURGLARY OF BUILDING MCDURMITT, JON JON NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BUCKNER, JONATHAN DAVID
426 FR68652 09/16/11 AR 845 2 BURGLARY OF HABITATION MCDURMITT, JON JON NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BUCKNER, JONATHAN DAVID
426 FR68653 09/16/11 AR 845 2 BURGLARY OF HABITATION MCDURMITT, JON JON NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BUCKNER, JONATHAN DAVID
426 FR68654 09/16/11 AR 845 2 BURGLARY OF HABITATION HALL, BILLY RAY STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: MOORE, EMJOMO
426 FR68658 09/16/11 AR 845 S THEFT OF SERV >=$1,500<$20K * STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: HOWARD, BERNADETTE JOYCE
426 FR68662 09/16/11 AR 845 1 MURDER HARRIS III, ROBERT O. STRIMPLE, SHELLY 60 200,000
Defendant's Name: FLETCHER, JUSTON COLE
426 FR68664 09/16/11 AR 845 2 AGG ASSAULT W/DEADLY WEAPON WHITE, MICHAEL STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: KEARNS, ANTWONE D
Arraignment has been scheduled as follows:
Ct Cause Setting Time Misc L Offense Attorney DA BD BD Amt
027 FR68638 09/15/11 AR 845 S THEFT PROP>=$1,500<$20K * VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: ARNETT, CHANDA ANNETTE
027 FR68640 09/15/11 AR 845 1 AGG SEXUAL ASSAULT MAGANA, MICHAEL J. VALLEJO, EDWARD 73 25,000
Defendant's Name: GONZALES, RUBEN GREGORY
027 FR68643 09/15/11 AR 845 S POSS CS PG 1 <1G KREIMEYER, JAMES H. VALLEJO, EDWARD 68 25,000
Defendant's Name: AMONETT, STACY DIANE
027 FR68645 09/15/11 AR 845 S CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABU * VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: DORAN, DAVID LEE
027 FR68649 09/15/11 AR 845 3 POSS CS PG 1 >=1G<4G FERGUSON, CATHERINE BARNES, WILLIAM NELSON 66 30,000
Defendant's Name: GLADDEN, LEONTA ODELL
027 FR68650 09/15/11 AR 845 2 MAN DEL CS PG 1 >=1G<4G GALLIGAN, JOHN P. BARNES, WILLIAM NELSON 0
Defendant's Name: JONES, BRETT CODY
027 FR68655 09/15/11 AR 845 1 AGG ROBBERY * BARNES, WILLIAM NELSON 0
Defendant's Name: RAINGE, DAMIANO JAMAAL
027 FR68659 09/15/11 AR 845 S FRAUD USE/POSS IDENTIFYING IN MAJOR, BUCKLEY VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: MADERE, LATOYA QUITA
027 FR68661 09/15/11 AR 845 S CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABU * VALLEJO, EDWARD 0
Defendant's Name: GONZALES, THEARIZZA DECENA
264 FR68641 09/16/11 AR 915 S POSS CS PG 1 <1G COOPER, MICHAEL R. EAKIN, DAVID 87 20,000
Defendant's Name: CRUM, DONALD RAY JR
264 FR68644 09/16/11 AR 915 S THEFT PROP>=$1,500<$20K HARRELL, MARY BETH BURNS, FRED 90 10,000
Defendant's Name: STRACENER, JESSE EARL JR
264 FR68656 09/16/11 AR 915 1 AGG ROBBERY HALL, BILLY RAY BURNS, FRED 0
Defendant's Name: DAVIDSON, IER ASHRAD
264 FR68657 09/16/11 AR 915 2 ROBBERY JEFFREY, RICHARD BURNS, FRED 0
Defendant's Name: FLEMMING, CAMERON
264 FR68660 09/16/11 AR 915 S CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABU * EAKIN, DAVID 0
Defendant's Name: TURBE, JASHLEE ANN
264 FR68663 09/16/11 AR 915 2 AGG ASSAULT W/DEADLY WEAPON MAJOR, BUCKLEY BURNS, FRED 0
Defendant's Name: JACKSON, TAMICA LASHAWN
264 FR68665 09/16/11 AR 915 S TAMPER W/GOVERN RECORD DEFRAU * EAKIN, DAVID 0
Defendant's Name: JACKSON, CORITHA ANN
426 FR68639 09/16/11 AR 845 3 ASSAULT PUBLIC SERVANT WIENER JR., JOSEPH C. STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: BROWN, IENTILE AHIA
426 FR68642 09/16/11 AR 845 3 POSS CS PG 1 >=1G<4G CORNISH, DALLAS NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BRIDGES, KENNY L
426 FR68646 09/16/11 AR 845 3 UNL POSS FIREARM BY FELON MILLER, DUANE STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: APODACA, ROBERT JOSEPH
426 FR68651 09/16/11 AR 845 S BURGLARY OF BUILDING MCDURMITT, JON JON NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BUCKNER, JONATHAN DAVID
426 FR68652 09/16/11 AR 845 2 BURGLARY OF HABITATION MCDURMITT, JON JON NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BUCKNER, JONATHAN DAVID
426 FR68653 09/16/11 AR 845 2 BURGLARY OF HABITATION MCDURMITT, JON JON NEWELL, STEPHANIE 0
Defendant's Name: BUCKNER, JONATHAN DAVID
426 FR68654 09/16/11 AR 845 2 BURGLARY OF HABITATION HALL, BILLY RAY STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: MOORE, EMJOMO
426 FR68658 09/16/11 AR 845 S THEFT OF SERV >=$1,500<$20K * STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: HOWARD, BERNADETTE JOYCE
426 FR68662 09/16/11 AR 845 1 MURDER HARRIS III, ROBERT O. STRIMPLE, SHELLY 60 200,000
Defendant's Name: FLETCHER, JUSTON COLE
426 FR68664 09/16/11 AR 845 2 AGG ASSAULT W/DEADLY WEAPON WHITE, MICHAEL STRIMPLE, SHELLY 0
Defendant's Name: KEARNS, ANTWONE D
McLennanCounty Indictments August 31
IN THE 19TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT OF McLENNAN COUNTY, TEXAS
On this the 31ST day of AUGUST, 2011 the Grand Jurors for the JULY, 2011 Term of the above named Court, having heretofore been retired to enter upon the discharge of their duties, came back into open Court in a body, at least nine of their members being present, and through their Foreman, delivered the following styled indictments to the Judge of said Court, which were subsequently numbered by the Clerk of said Court as follows, to-wit:
CAUSE NO. THE STATE OF TEXAS VS.: OFFENSE
2011-1924-C1 JERMAINE LEE WILEY POSSESSION OF MARIHUANA 50 POUNDS OR LESS BUT MORE THAN FIVE POUNDS
2011-1925-C2 THOMAS JOSEPH KEATING INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT I;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY EXPOSURE- COUNT II
2011-1926-C1 DAVID HONEYCUTT CONTINUOUS SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD- COUNT I;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT II
2011-1927-C1 VICTOR ESPINOZA AGGRAVATED SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A CHILD- COUNT I;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT II;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT III
2011-1928-C2 BRIAN SCOTT FINNELL POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE
2011-1929-C1 MARCUS JEROME LANDRUM CAPITAL MURDER- COUNT I;
MURDER (ENHANCED)- COUNT II
2011-1930-C2 ARMANDO DANIELL SENICERO ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE (ENHANCED)
2011-1931-C1 JAMES EARL WOODEN JR ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE (ENHANCED)
2011-1932-C1 RONNIE KEITH WHITE THEFT UNDER $1,500 WITH TWO OR MORE PRIORS (ENHANCED)
2011-1933-C2 EDDIE RIVERA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1934-C2 JERRELL ANTONIO WILLIAMS POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: CODEINE- COUNT I; POSSESSION OF MARIHUANA FIVE POUNDS OR LESS BUT MORE THAN FOUR OUNCES- COUNT II
2011-1935-C1 DEBBIE JEAN IVY
AKA DEBBIE JEAN JANUARY THEFT OF LESS THAN $1,500 WITH TWO OR MORE PRIORS
2011-1936-C2 JOHNATHON LEE EAKINS POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE (ENHANCED)
2011-1937-C1 AKEEM RAYSHAUN PARKER EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION USING A VEHICLE
2011-1938-C1 MICHAEL LEE LUNA FORGERY (ENHANCED)
2011-1939-C2 SOLO JOEL RIVERA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: CODEINE
2011-1940-C2 ANGEL RIVERA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: CODEINE
2011-1941-C2 CARLOS JAY RAMOS CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT I;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT II
2011-1942-C2 CARLOS JAY RAMOS CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT I;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT II;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT III;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT IV
2011-1943-C2 ROBERT ELVIN LAWRENCE DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED FELONY (HABITUAL)
2011-1944-C1 BOBBY EIVY REYNOSO EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION WITH A VEHICLE
2011-1945-C1 RICKY EDWIN PAINE JR POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE
2011-1946-C1 DODD JAMES PLANT POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1947-C1 GRACIE SOTO MARTINEZ INJURY TO A CHILD
2011-1948-C1 ANGEL MANUEL CARDONA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: HEROIN- COUNT I; ENDANGERING A CHILD- COUNT II
2011-1949-C1 WILL BAILEY JR EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
2011-1950-C1 BRADLEY WAYNE YATES ARSON- COUNT I;
RETALIATION- COUNT II;
RETALIATION- COUNT III
2011-1951-C2 GARY WAYNE ALEXANDER JR POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: COCAINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE (ENHANCED)
2011-1952-C2 ULIS HOWARD ALEXANDER POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: COCAINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE
2011-1953-C1 ANTWANE DARRELL MCGILL INJURY TO A CHILD
2011-1954-C2 JOSHUA LEE WARD AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
2011-1955-C1 DERIK LAMONT MCLENNAN EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
2011-1956-C1 LARODRICK DEEARL LEVI TAMPERING WITH PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
2011-1957-C2 SHELLEY ANN EATON THEFT UNDER $1,500 WITH TWO OR MORE PRIORS
2011-1958-C2 CRYSTAL LOUISE STANLEY POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1959-C1 SHAMEKA EBONY SMITH ASSAULT AGAINST A PUBLIC SERVANT
2011-1960-C2 RONNIE CHARLES CRAFT FRAUDULENT USE OF IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
2011-1961-C1 NICHOLAS JAVONE CHINA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1962-C1 CHRISTOPHER DALE COBB POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1963-C2 RANDY DON JOHNSON POSSESSION OF MARIHUANA FIVE POUNDS OR LESS BUT MORE THAN FOUR OUNCES
2011-1964-C1 TINA MARIE WILSON POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE
2011-1965-C1 REGINALD LAMAR HUTCHINSON FORGERY
2011-1966-C1 VALERIE CASTILLO FORGERY
2011-1967-C1 MELANI ROSE WALKER FORGERY
2011-1968-C1 BRANDON LOUIS WHITE FORGERY
and the Clerk is here and now ordered to enter the fact of the presentment of the above listed indictments upon the minutes of said Court, noting briefly the style of the criminal action and the file number of the indictment, but omitting the name of the defendant, unless he is in custody or under bond.
On this the 31ST day of AUGUST, 2011 the Grand Jurors for the JULY, 2011 Term of the above named Court, having heretofore been retired to enter upon the discharge of their duties, came back into open Court in a body, at least nine of their members being present, and through their Foreman, delivered the following styled indictments to the Judge of said Court, which were subsequently numbered by the Clerk of said Court as follows, to-wit:
CAUSE NO. THE STATE OF TEXAS VS.: OFFENSE
2011-1924-C1 JERMAINE LEE WILEY POSSESSION OF MARIHUANA 50 POUNDS OR LESS BUT MORE THAN FIVE POUNDS
2011-1925-C2 THOMAS JOSEPH KEATING INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT I;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY EXPOSURE- COUNT II
2011-1926-C1 DAVID HONEYCUTT CONTINUOUS SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD- COUNT I;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT II
2011-1927-C1 VICTOR ESPINOZA AGGRAVATED SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A CHILD- COUNT I;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT II;
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY CONTACT- COUNT III
2011-1928-C2 BRIAN SCOTT FINNELL POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE
2011-1929-C1 MARCUS JEROME LANDRUM CAPITAL MURDER- COUNT I;
MURDER (ENHANCED)- COUNT II
2011-1930-C2 ARMANDO DANIELL SENICERO ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE (ENHANCED)
2011-1931-C1 JAMES EARL WOODEN JR ASSAULT FAMILY VIOLENCE (ENHANCED)
2011-1932-C1 RONNIE KEITH WHITE THEFT UNDER $1,500 WITH TWO OR MORE PRIORS (ENHANCED)
2011-1933-C2 EDDIE RIVERA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1934-C2 JERRELL ANTONIO WILLIAMS POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: CODEINE- COUNT I; POSSESSION OF MARIHUANA FIVE POUNDS OR LESS BUT MORE THAN FOUR OUNCES- COUNT II
2011-1935-C1 DEBBIE JEAN IVY
AKA DEBBIE JEAN JANUARY THEFT OF LESS THAN $1,500 WITH TWO OR MORE PRIORS
2011-1936-C2 JOHNATHON LEE EAKINS POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE (ENHANCED)
2011-1937-C1 AKEEM RAYSHAUN PARKER EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION USING A VEHICLE
2011-1938-C1 MICHAEL LEE LUNA FORGERY (ENHANCED)
2011-1939-C2 SOLO JOEL RIVERA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: CODEINE
2011-1940-C2 ANGEL RIVERA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: CODEINE
2011-1941-C2 CARLOS JAY RAMOS CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT I;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT II
2011-1942-C2 CARLOS JAY RAMOS CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT I;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT II;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT III;
CREDIT CARD ABUSE- COUNT IV
2011-1943-C2 ROBERT ELVIN LAWRENCE DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED FELONY (HABITUAL)
2011-1944-C1 BOBBY EIVY REYNOSO EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION WITH A VEHICLE
2011-1945-C1 RICKY EDWIN PAINE JR POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE
2011-1946-C1 DODD JAMES PLANT POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1947-C1 GRACIE SOTO MARTINEZ INJURY TO A CHILD
2011-1948-C1 ANGEL MANUEL CARDONA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: HEROIN- COUNT I; ENDANGERING A CHILD- COUNT II
2011-1949-C1 WILL BAILEY JR EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
2011-1950-C1 BRADLEY WAYNE YATES ARSON- COUNT I;
RETALIATION- COUNT II;
RETALIATION- COUNT III
2011-1951-C2 GARY WAYNE ALEXANDER JR POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: COCAINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE (ENHANCED)
2011-1952-C2 ULIS HOWARD ALEXANDER POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: COCAINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE
2011-1953-C1 ANTWANE DARRELL MCGILL INJURY TO A CHILD
2011-1954-C2 JOSHUA LEE WARD AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
2011-1955-C1 DERIK LAMONT MCLENNAN EVADING ARREST OR DETENTION IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
2011-1956-C1 LARODRICK DEEARL LEVI TAMPERING WITH PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
2011-1957-C2 SHELLEY ANN EATON THEFT UNDER $1,500 WITH TWO OR MORE PRIORS
2011-1958-C2 CRYSTAL LOUISE STANLEY POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1959-C1 SHAMEKA EBONY SMITH ASSAULT AGAINST A PUBLIC SERVANT
2011-1960-C2 RONNIE CHARLES CRAFT FRAUDULENT USE OF IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
2011-1961-C1 NICHOLAS JAVONE CHINA POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1962-C1 CHRISTOPHER DALE COBB POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, TO-WIT: COCAINE
2011-1963-C2 RANDY DON JOHNSON POSSESSION OF MARIHUANA FIVE POUNDS OR LESS BUT MORE THAN FOUR OUNCES
2011-1964-C1 TINA MARIE WILSON POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH INTENT TO DELIVER, TO-WIT: METHAMPHETAMINE IN A DRUG FREE ZONE
2011-1965-C1 REGINALD LAMAR HUTCHINSON FORGERY
2011-1966-C1 VALERIE CASTILLO FORGERY
2011-1967-C1 MELANI ROSE WALKER FORGERY
2011-1968-C1 BRANDON LOUIS WHITE FORGERY
and the Clerk is here and now ordered to enter the fact of the presentment of the above listed indictments upon the minutes of said Court, noting briefly the style of the criminal action and the file number of the indictment, but omitting the name of the defendant, unless he is in custody or under bond.
Coryell County Judge Declares Disaster Because of Fires
Coryell County Judge John Firth has declared a local state of disaster in connection with multiple fires burning in the county. The local declaration says that Coryell County, starting on the 28th day of August, 2011 has suffered severe damage and loss ofn property and imminent threat of loss of life and more property. Multiple fires burned Sunday in an area between Pearl and Evant along FM 183 in one complex of fires while another fire adjacent to Mother Neff State Park has been burning since Monday.
Judge Firth also sent a letter to Governor Rick Perry informing him of the situation and requesting an assistance possible, including financial assistance to Coryell COunty, which he noted, has the lowest per capita tax base of any county in Texas. In the letter to the Governonr, Judge FIrth has noted that the hot temperatures and extreme drought condition have made fighting the fires very challenging. He noted that the county's 75,388 citizens are served by only one full-time department and 10 Volunteer Fire Departments to protect 1,52 square miles. He noted that the local fires have already consumed over 1,600 acres and are having a serious and dtrimental impact on budgets, equipment and volunteer personnel. In addition, he noted, several fire fighting vehicles haveexperienced major damage in the last 24 hours. Judge Firth noted there are no funds in the County budget or in the department budgets to pay for these major repairs of equipment replacement.
Judge Firth also sent a letter to Governor Rick Perry informing him of the situation and requesting an assistance possible, including financial assistance to Coryell COunty, which he noted, has the lowest per capita tax base of any county in Texas. In the letter to the Governonr, Judge FIrth has noted that the hot temperatures and extreme drought condition have made fighting the fires very challenging. He noted that the county's 75,388 citizens are served by only one full-time department and 10 Volunteer Fire Departments to protect 1,52 square miles. He noted that the local fires have already consumed over 1,600 acres and are having a serious and dtrimental impact on budgets, equipment and volunteer personnel. In addition, he noted, several fire fighting vehicles haveexperienced major damage in the last 24 hours. Judge Firth noted there are no funds in the County budget or in the department budgets to pay for these major repairs of equipment replacement.
Milam County Sex Offender Charged with Sexual Assault of a Child
Milam County Sheriff's Office Release
The Milam County Sheriff’s Office arrested Justin Scott Grahmann, a 24 year old Milam County resident late Tuesday night for sexual assault of a child, a 2nd degree felony. Pct 3 Justice Andy Issacs arraigned Mr. Grahmann and set a $100,000 bond.
Investigator Beathard with the Sheriff’s Office initiated the investigation after information was received which indicated that a 24 year old man was having a relationship with a 15 year old girl. During the investigation it was discovered that the suspect, Mr. Grahmann, was also a registered sex offender who had recently reported at the Milam County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators are continuing to look into the possibilities of any additional victims, however none have come forward at this time.
Investigator Beathard with the Sheriff’s Office initiated the investigation after information was received which indicated that a 24 year old man was having a relationship with a 15 year old girl. During the investigation it was discovered that the suspect, Mr. Grahmann, was also a registered sex offender who had recently reported at the Milam County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators are continuing to look into the possibilities of any additional victims, however none have come forward at this time.
Fort Hood Power Outage, Road Closure due to Jack Mountain Fire
FORT HOOD PUBLIC AFFAIRS
UPDATE: Fort Hood fire officials reported at 10 a.m. this morning that the Jack Mountain fire has consumed two power poles knocking out power to West Range Road facilities. The fire has reportedly crossed West Range Road forcing officials to close the road from Elijah Road (North) to Dalton Mountain Multi-use Range; this includes the area near Brown's Creek Multi-use Range. Texas Forestry Service aircraft are scheduled to fly over the area later today to provide a site assessment.
FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood fire officials reported at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 that a range fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain is now 10% contained. The fire poses no threat to Fort Hood buildings or personnel at this time.
All Fort Hood fire crews have been called in to fight the fire. They are expected to be working through the night. The Texas Forestry Service is also helping with assets to contain the fire. At this point, the fire has burned 750 acres on the range. Fort Hood continues to use ground and air support to help contain the fire.
UPDATE: Fort Hood fire officials reported at 10 a.m. this morning that the Jack Mountain fire has consumed two power poles knocking out power to West Range Road facilities. The fire has reportedly crossed West Range Road forcing officials to close the road from Elijah Road (North) to Dalton Mountain Multi-use Range; this includes the area near Brown's Creek Multi-use Range. Texas Forestry Service aircraft are scheduled to fly over the area later today to provide a site assessment.
FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood fire officials reported at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 that a range fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain is now 10% contained. The fire poses no threat to Fort Hood buildings or personnel at this time.
All Fort Hood fire crews have been called in to fight the fire. They are expected to be working through the night. The Texas Forestry Service is also helping with assets to contain the fire. At this point, the fire has burned 750 acres on the range. Fort Hood continues to use ground and air support to help contain the fire.
Fire Destroys Speegleville Home
The McLennan County Sheriff's Office is conducting an investigation into a fire that totally destroyed a home at 484 Norwood Drive in Speegleville Tuesday afternoon. Six fire departments responded to the fire at the home in a neighborhoow northwest of Lake Waco. China Spring Fire Department was first dispatched about 3:30 pm with several others including Speegleville, Waco, and Woodway sending units. Flames were spotted coming from the rear of the house when the first units arrived, and there was concern it would spread to a nearby home. A defensive approach was taken, with firefighters first protecting the second home. Fire also spread to a storage shed on the property. Neighbors also were wetting down their yards with garden hoses, concerned that embers might spread the fire. Fire units were sent out to the scene again this morning when neighbors spotted smoke coming from a storage building. The Red Cross has provided temporary housing assistance for the family that lived in the house, but who were not home when the fire broke out.
Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on Injunction of Sonogram Law
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today issued the following statement on U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks’ injunction against Texas’ recently-passed sonogram legislation:
“Every life lost to abortion is a tragedy and today’s ruling is a great disappointment to all Texans who stand in defense of life. This important sonogram legislation ensures that every Texas woman seeking an abortion has all the facts about the life she is carrying, and understands the devastating impact of such a life-changing decision. I have full confidence in Attorney General Abbott’s efforts to appeal this decision as he defends the laws enacted by the Texas Legislature.”
Pakistan:Quetta blast kills 5, injures 17 on the eve of eid.
Pakistan State TV
A police official says a car bomb has exploded in Quetta, killing at least 5 people. Blast occurred today as hundreds of people were leaving a mosque in Quetta, the capital of Baluchistan province. The crowd had just finished morning prayers to mark Eid al-Fitr. Jamil says at least 17 people were wounded in the attack. No group immediately claimed responsibility. A car bomb Wednesday killed at least five people and wounded 10 others in the restive southwestern Pakistani city of Quetta, police said. The bomb exploded in a parking lot after Eid prayers, senior police official Mohammad Hashim told media. "At least five people were killed and 10 others wounded," Hashim said. "The bomb was planted in a car and an unidentified man parked it at the site and left." Hashim said there had been no immediate claim of responsibility and police could not speculate who could be behind the bombing, although the blast site was in an area populated by minority Shiite Muslims.Hospital official Rasheed Jamali said there was one woman among the five dead brought to hospital. Witnesses said several cars parked nearby also caught fire and a house was damaged.
Tropical Storm Katia Wednesday Morning
National Weather Service Release
------------------------------
AT 500 AM AST...0900 UTC...THE CENTER OF TROPICAL STORM KATIA WAS LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 13.9 NORTH...LONGITUDE 39.1 WEST. KATIA IS MOVING TOWARD THE WEST-NORTHWEST NEAR 21 MPH...33 KM/H...AND THIS GENERAL MOTION IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE WITH A GRADUAL DECREASE IN FORWARD SPEED DURING THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS.
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS HAVE INCREASED TO NEAR 65 MPH...100 KM/H... WITH HIGHER GUSTS. ADDITIONAL STRENGTHENING IS FORECAST DURING THE NEXT 48 HOURS...AND KATIA COULD BECOME A HURRICANE LATER TODAY.
TROPICAL STORM FORCE WINDS EXTEND OUTWARD UP TO 85 MILES...140 KM FROM THE CENTER.
ESTIMATED MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE IS 994 MB...29.35 INCHES.
------------------------------
AT 500 AM AST...0900 UTC...THE CENTER OF TROPICAL STORM KATIA WAS LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 13.9 NORTH...LONGITUDE 39.1 WEST. KATIA IS MOVING TOWARD THE WEST-NORTHWEST NEAR 21 MPH...33 KM/H...AND THIS GENERAL MOTION IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE WITH A GRADUAL DECREASE IN FORWARD SPEED DURING THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS.
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS HAVE INCREASED TO NEAR 65 MPH...100 KM/H... WITH HIGHER GUSTS. ADDITIONAL STRENGTHENING IS FORECAST DURING THE NEXT 48 HOURS...AND KATIA COULD BECOME A HURRICANE LATER TODAY.
TROPICAL STORM FORCE WINDS EXTEND OUTWARD UP TO 85 MILES...140 KM FROM THE CENTER.
ESTIMATED MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE IS 994 MB...29.35 INCHES.
Corps of Engineers: Lake Georgetown’s Jim Hogg boat ramp closure
Corps of Engineers Release
FORT WORTH, TEXAS– The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth District announces the closure of Jim Hogg boat ramp at Lake Georgetown due to drought conditions. Low water levels have made it unsafe for people to launch most watercraft. Only vessels that can be hand carried such as canoes and kayaks can still be launched. Corps officials recommend boaters use Russell Park or Cedar Breaks Park boat ramps.
Changing lake levels and drought conditions have brought submerged hazards close to or above the water’s surface bringing new hazards to boaters. The low lake levels have exposed rocks, submerged trees, sandbars as well as other potential hazards. The prudent boat operator must remain vigilant at all times and keep a proper lookout for such hazards. Boaters and watercraft operators are required to operate at slow speeds so as not to create a wake and to use caution when launching boats from ramps.
For more information contact the Lake Georgetown Office at (512) 819-9046.
Fort Hood West Range Road Closed
Fort Hood Public Affairs
Range Control and the FHFD report that West Range Road is temporarily closed from Elijah Road (North) to Dalton Mountain Multi-use Range, this includes the area near Brown's Creek Multi-use Range. FHFD will continue to provide updates and changes will be made to road closures based on the information provided. For the latest on traffic information, visit http://www.hood.army.mil/ . Updates are posted on the top right.
Range Control and the FHFD report that West Range Road is temporarily closed from Elijah Road (North) to Dalton Mountain Multi-use Range, this includes the area near Brown's Creek Multi-use Range. FHFD will continue to provide updates and changes will be made to road closures based on the information provided. For the latest on traffic information, visit http://www.hood.army.mil/ . Updates are posted on the top right.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Fire Again on Fort Hood
Fort Hood Public Affairs
FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood fire officials reported at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 that a range fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain is now 10% contained. The fire poses no threat to Fort Hood buildings or personnel at this time.
All Fort Hood fire crews have been called in to fight the fire. They were expected to be working through the night. The Texas Forestry Service is also helping with assets to contain the fire. At this point, the fire has burned 750 acres on the range. Fort Hood continues to use ground and air support to help contain the fire.
Original release
III corps and Fort Hood emergency personel have been battling a fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain which is within the post's range impact area. Crews have support from two Fort Hood based helicopters with water buckets and additional ground support vehicles. Officials are assessing the size and determining whether they will need further support. Currently,there is no danger to the cantonment area on post.
FORT HOOD, Texas -- Fort Hood fire officials reported at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 that a range fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain is now 10% contained. The fire poses no threat to Fort Hood buildings or personnel at this time.
All Fort Hood fire crews have been called in to fight the fire. They were expected to be working through the night. The Texas Forestry Service is also helping with assets to contain the fire. At this point, the fire has burned 750 acres on the range. Fort Hood continues to use ground and air support to help contain the fire.
Original release
III corps and Fort Hood emergency personel have been battling a fire in the vicinity of Jack Mountain which is within the post's range impact area. Crews have support from two Fort Hood based helicopters with water buckets and additional ground support vehicles. Officials are assessing the size and determining whether they will need further support. Currently,there is no danger to the cantonment area on post.
ATF Acting Director Announces Depature, New Role as Senior Advisor on Forensic Science in Office of Legal Policy
ATF RELEASE
WASHINGTON – Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Acting Director Kenneth Melson today announced that he is leaving the agency to become Senior Advisor to the Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy (OLP) where he will specialize in forensic science policy issues at the Department of Justice.
“ATF employees are hard working and dedicated to the mission of protecting the public every day, and in my time here I have seen firsthand their extraordinary commitment to stopping violent crime,” said Melson. “I will miss working with them, but know that my continued work at the Department will contribute in their pursuit and prosecution of violent criminals.”
Melson was appointed Acting Director in 2009. Prior to joining ATF, he was Director of the Executive Office for United States Attorneys.
As senior advisor, Melson will assist and advise on issues relating to forensic science policy. He brings extensive experience in this area, having served for the last two years as a co-chair of the Subcommittee on Forensic Science at the National Science and Technology Council within the Executive Office of the President.
He is a Distinguished Fellow and Past President of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and currently participates as a board member of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB) as a representative of the Department of Justice.
In 2006, he was the Chair of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents, and before that he was the ethics advisor for the Council. Melson serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Forensic Sciences, on the Ethics Committee for the AAFS, and served on the Advisory Council of the National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law at Stetson University College of Law until 2011.
He has been an adjunct professor at the George Washington University for over 30 years, teaching law and forensic science courses at both the law school and the Department of Forensic Sciences. He also contributes chapters and articles to both scientific texts and legal journals on forensic science issues.
WASHINGTON – Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Acting Director Kenneth Melson today announced that he is leaving the agency to become Senior Advisor to the Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy (OLP) where he will specialize in forensic science policy issues at the Department of Justice.
“ATF employees are hard working and dedicated to the mission of protecting the public every day, and in my time here I have seen firsthand their extraordinary commitment to stopping violent crime,” said Melson. “I will miss working with them, but know that my continued work at the Department will contribute in their pursuit and prosecution of violent criminals.”
Melson was appointed Acting Director in 2009. Prior to joining ATF, he was Director of the Executive Office for United States Attorneys.
As senior advisor, Melson will assist and advise on issues relating to forensic science policy. He brings extensive experience in this area, having served for the last two years as a co-chair of the Subcommittee on Forensic Science at the National Science and Technology Council within the Executive Office of the President.
He is a Distinguished Fellow and Past President of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and currently participates as a board member of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB) as a representative of the Department of Justice.
In 2006, he was the Chair of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents, and before that he was the ethics advisor for the Council. Melson serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Forensic Sciences, on the Ethics Committee for the AAFS, and served on the Advisory Council of the National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law at Stetson University College of Law until 2011.
He has been an adjunct professor at the George Washington University for over 30 years, teaching law and forensic science courses at both the law school and the Department of Forensic Sciences. He also contributes chapters and articles to both scientific texts and legal journals on forensic science issues.
SEN CORNYN Questions Reassignment of ATF Head
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and former state Attorney General, today responded to reports that Kenneth E. Melson, the acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and other Department of Justice officials who oversaw the “Fast and Furious” gun-walking operation, have been reassigned to new positions within the Justice Department:
“Instead of reassigning those responsible for ‘Fast and Furious’ within the Department of Justice, Attorney General Holder should ask for their resignations and come clean on all alleged gun-walking operations, including a detailed response to allegations of a Texas-based scheme.”
Earlier this month, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder demanding answers following recent press reports of alleged Texas-based “gun-walking” programs similar to the “Fast and Furious” operation currently being investigated by Congressional lawmakers. To date, Attorney General Holder has refused to respond.
“Instead of reassigning those responsible for ‘Fast and Furious’ within the Department of Justice, Attorney General Holder should ask for their resignations and come clean on all alleged gun-walking operations, including a detailed response to allegations of a Texas-based scheme.”
Earlier this month, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder demanding answers following recent press reports of alleged Texas-based “gun-walking” programs similar to the “Fast and Furious” operation currently being investigated by Congressional lawmakers. To date, Attorney General Holder has refused to respond.
Fort Worth 'Naturopathic Doctor' Charged With Multiple Health & Safety Code Violations
State’s enforcement action cites Valerie Saxion with making false disease-curing claims about products
Texas AG Release
FORT WORTH – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today charged a Fort Worth-based “naturopathic doctor” with unlawfully marketing and promoting dietary supplements. According to the State’s enforcement action, Texas law does not recognize naturopathic doctors, and the defendant unlawfully described her supplements’ ability to cure or prevent illnesses.
The defendant, Valerie Saxion, operates under the business name Valerie Saxion Inc. and sells various dietary supplements, skin care products and books by telephone and through her website. Saxion also promotes her products through a local television show known as “Alternative Health.” Both the television broadcast and her promotional materials tout Saxion’s doctoral degree in naturopathy from Clayton College of Natural Health. However, Clayton College is not properly accredited, so it is improper to cite those purported degrees, according to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
Court documents filed by the State indicate that Saxion promotes her products by claiming that the dietary supplements can cure breast, prostate, stomach, colorectal and skin cancers. The defendant touts suppositories for reducing the affects of high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and severe back pain. Another dietary supplement purports to heighten serotonin levels and to aid in overcoming depression, obesity, food cravings, bulimia, insomnia, migraines and other maladies. Vendors who market dietary supplements cannot claim that their products prevent, cure, mitigate or treat diseases, because these products have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Because the defendants cite disease-curing properties for dietary supplements, the Office of the Attorney General contends the defendants have been selling new and unapproved drugs to the public.
In other promotional materials, the defendants advertise self-named products that claim to cure, treat, prevent or mitigate diseases: Dr. Val’s Resveratrol (antioxidant protection for the heart); Dr. Val’s Paracease (combats intestinal parasites); and Dr. Val’s Oh My Back (provides a pain-free existence and increased flexibility).
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) referred this enforcement case to the Office of the Attorney General. During its inspections, DSHS found that some of the products’ labels failed to include the term “dietary supplement” or other descriptive term in the statement of identity and that some of the labels failed to list the manufacturer’s address.
The State seeks civil penalties of up to $20,000 for each violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and up to $25,000 per violation per day of the Health and Safety Code.
Texas AG Release
FORT WORTH – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today charged a Fort Worth-based “naturopathic doctor” with unlawfully marketing and promoting dietary supplements. According to the State’s enforcement action, Texas law does not recognize naturopathic doctors, and the defendant unlawfully described her supplements’ ability to cure or prevent illnesses.
The defendant, Valerie Saxion, operates under the business name Valerie Saxion Inc. and sells various dietary supplements, skin care products and books by telephone and through her website. Saxion also promotes her products through a local television show known as “Alternative Health.” Both the television broadcast and her promotional materials tout Saxion’s doctoral degree in naturopathy from Clayton College of Natural Health. However, Clayton College is not properly accredited, so it is improper to cite those purported degrees, according to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
Court documents filed by the State indicate that Saxion promotes her products by claiming that the dietary supplements can cure breast, prostate, stomach, colorectal and skin cancers. The defendant touts suppositories for reducing the affects of high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and severe back pain. Another dietary supplement purports to heighten serotonin levels and to aid in overcoming depression, obesity, food cravings, bulimia, insomnia, migraines and other maladies. Vendors who market dietary supplements cannot claim that their products prevent, cure, mitigate or treat diseases, because these products have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Because the defendants cite disease-curing properties for dietary supplements, the Office of the Attorney General contends the defendants have been selling new and unapproved drugs to the public.
In other promotional materials, the defendants advertise self-named products that claim to cure, treat, prevent or mitigate diseases: Dr. Val’s Resveratrol (antioxidant protection for the heart); Dr. Val’s Paracease (combats intestinal parasites); and Dr. Val’s Oh My Back (provides a pain-free existence and increased flexibility).
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) referred this enforcement case to the Office of the Attorney General. During its inspections, DSHS found that some of the products’ labels failed to include the term “dietary supplement” or other descriptive term in the statement of identity and that some of the labels failed to list the manufacturer’s address.
The State seeks civil penalties of up to $20,000 for each violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and up to $25,000 per violation per day of the Health and Safety Code.
Forces Target Haqqani Attack Cell
ISAF Joint Command
KABUL, Afghanistan – A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed more than 10 insurgents and detained another nine during separate, overnight searches targeting a Haqqani Network attack cell in eastern Afghanistan.
The targets of the searches were several Haqqani facilitators responsible for planning an imminent attack on Kabul city under direction from Haqqani leaders based in Pakistan. Tips from local citizens indicated the insurgents’ locations and that they were organizing the attack to happen in the next few weeks.
In Nerkh District, Wardak province, while initiating the search, the force was attacked by multiple groups of insurgents armed with rocket propelled grenades. Responding to the attacks, the force returned fire, killing several.
A separate team, led by Afghan troops, searched for another facilitator at a compound in Andar District, Ghazni province. As the force initiated the search they were engaged by a group of armed insurgents who were barricaded in a nearby building. The force made several attempts to call upon the insurgents to leave the building, however the insurgents continued to fire. As a protection measure, the force called in air strikes to engage the armed men. Multiple insurgents were killed and several were detained as a result of the strike. Following the engagement, members of the security force met with local leaders, who indicated the building the insurgents had taken over was the village mosque.
In addition to the searches in Wardak and Ghazni, multiple individuals with suspected ties to the facilitators were detained in Sabari District, Khost province.
No civilians were harmed as a result of the searches, according to operational reporting.
Additionally, International Security Assistance Force officials have already taken steps to convene a shura with local leaders in Ghazni and allocate resources to re-build the mosque that was destroyed during the engagement with the insurgents.
This is one of several recent instances of insurgents using mosques as fighting positions or as ammunition storage spaces. Last month, a group of Haqqani insurgents used a mosque as a defended position while attacking Afghan and coalition security forces during an operation in Bermal District, Paktika province. During that engagement on July 20, the militants were armed with grenades, AK-47 rifles, and chest racks. Additionally, on August 9 in Zharay District, Kandahar province, the security force discovered a mosque which insurgents were using as a storage facility for explosives.
Since the beginning of the year, combined security forces have captured or killed over 100 Haqqani insurgents in Khost, Ghazni, and Wardak provinces. More than 50 of which were leaders or facilitators.
In other ISAF news throughout Afghanistan:
South
In Zharay District, Kandahar province, an Afghan and coalition combined security force detained a Taliban facilitator and two of his associates during a security operation, yesterday. The facilitator was responsible for acquiring and moving weapons, and also financed Taliban operations in the district.
An Afghan and coalition combined security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during a security operation targeting a Taliban facilitator in Nad Ali District, Helmand province, yesterday. The leader coordinates the movement of weapons and roadside bomb materials in the region.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed two insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader in Khugyani District, Nangarhar province, during an overnight operation. As the force conducted the search, it was threatened and engaged by insurgents. The security force responded by engaging and killing the two attackers.
The original target of this operation was the Taliban-appointed deputy governing official for operations in Azrah District, Logar province. As a senior leader, he directs attacks against Afghan security forces and facilitates suicide bomb attacks in the region.
KABUL, Afghanistan – A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed more than 10 insurgents and detained another nine during separate, overnight searches targeting a Haqqani Network attack cell in eastern Afghanistan.
The targets of the searches were several Haqqani facilitators responsible for planning an imminent attack on Kabul city under direction from Haqqani leaders based in Pakistan. Tips from local citizens indicated the insurgents’ locations and that they were organizing the attack to happen in the next few weeks.
In Nerkh District, Wardak province, while initiating the search, the force was attacked by multiple groups of insurgents armed with rocket propelled grenades. Responding to the attacks, the force returned fire, killing several.
A separate team, led by Afghan troops, searched for another facilitator at a compound in Andar District, Ghazni province. As the force initiated the search they were engaged by a group of armed insurgents who were barricaded in a nearby building. The force made several attempts to call upon the insurgents to leave the building, however the insurgents continued to fire. As a protection measure, the force called in air strikes to engage the armed men. Multiple insurgents were killed and several were detained as a result of the strike. Following the engagement, members of the security force met with local leaders, who indicated the building the insurgents had taken over was the village mosque.
In addition to the searches in Wardak and Ghazni, multiple individuals with suspected ties to the facilitators were detained in Sabari District, Khost province.
No civilians were harmed as a result of the searches, according to operational reporting.
Additionally, International Security Assistance Force officials have already taken steps to convene a shura with local leaders in Ghazni and allocate resources to re-build the mosque that was destroyed during the engagement with the insurgents.
This is one of several recent instances of insurgents using mosques as fighting positions or as ammunition storage spaces. Last month, a group of Haqqani insurgents used a mosque as a defended position while attacking Afghan and coalition security forces during an operation in Bermal District, Paktika province. During that engagement on July 20, the militants were armed with grenades, AK-47 rifles, and chest racks. Additionally, on August 9 in Zharay District, Kandahar province, the security force discovered a mosque which insurgents were using as a storage facility for explosives.
Since the beginning of the year, combined security forces have captured or killed over 100 Haqqani insurgents in Khost, Ghazni, and Wardak provinces. More than 50 of which were leaders or facilitators.
In other ISAF news throughout Afghanistan:
South
In Zharay District, Kandahar province, an Afghan and coalition combined security force detained a Taliban facilitator and two of his associates during a security operation, yesterday. The facilitator was responsible for acquiring and moving weapons, and also financed Taliban operations in the district.
An Afghan and coalition combined security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during a security operation targeting a Taliban facilitator in Nad Ali District, Helmand province, yesterday. The leader coordinates the movement of weapons and roadside bomb materials in the region.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed two insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader in Khugyani District, Nangarhar province, during an overnight operation. As the force conducted the search, it was threatened and engaged by insurgents. The security force responded by engaging and killing the two attackers.
The original target of this operation was the Taliban-appointed deputy governing official for operations in Azrah District, Logar province. As a senior leader, he directs attacks against Afghan security forces and facilitates suicide bomb attacks in the region.
Smugglers Attempt to Use Pipeline Under Border
ICE RELEASE
CALEXICO, Calif. — Agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) continued to gather evidence following the discovery of an incomplete pipeline-style smuggling tunnel Thursday afternoon. The tunnel originated beneath the floor of a vacant supermarket.
The discovery came after a hazardous materials unit from the city of Calexico responded to reports of a possible gas leak at the former Vons store on West 2nd Street. When the team attempted to enter the shuttered building, they spotted a massive piece of drilling equipment parked inside. Local authorities alerted ICE HSI agents, who secured the scene and informed their law enforcement counterparts in Mexico. HSI agents subsequently obtained a federal search warrant authorizing them to enter to the vacant building.
HSI investigators estimate the 4-inch diameter tunnel extends approximately 100 yards from the vacant supermarket, but it had not yet reached Mexico. The use of pipeline-style tunnels is one of the newest approaches being employed by drug smuggling organizations. The narrow passages are lined with PVC pipe and the drugs are smuggled through.
So far, no arrests have been made, but ICE HSI agents underscore the investigation is ongoing.
"This discovery again shows the Mexican cartels' growing desperation in the face of heightened border security," said Ricardo Sandoval, assistant special agent in charge for ICE HSI in El Centro, Calif. "Frustrated by our defenses, they're literally going underground, but we're thwarting them there as well. That's owing to the extraordinary ongoing enforcement efforts involving the agencies here and in Mexico."
In the last four years, authorities have uncovered more than 10 smuggling tunnels in the area around Calexico and the neighboring city of Mexicali, Mexico.
CALEXICO, Calif. — Agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) continued to gather evidence following the discovery of an incomplete pipeline-style smuggling tunnel Thursday afternoon. The tunnel originated beneath the floor of a vacant supermarket.
The discovery came after a hazardous materials unit from the city of Calexico responded to reports of a possible gas leak at the former Vons store on West 2nd Street. When the team attempted to enter the shuttered building, they spotted a massive piece of drilling equipment parked inside. Local authorities alerted ICE HSI agents, who secured the scene and informed their law enforcement counterparts in Mexico. HSI agents subsequently obtained a federal search warrant authorizing them to enter to the vacant building.
HSI investigators estimate the 4-inch diameter tunnel extends approximately 100 yards from the vacant supermarket, but it had not yet reached Mexico. The use of pipeline-style tunnels is one of the newest approaches being employed by drug smuggling organizations. The narrow passages are lined with PVC pipe and the drugs are smuggled through.
So far, no arrests have been made, but ICE HSI agents underscore the investigation is ongoing.
"This discovery again shows the Mexican cartels' growing desperation in the face of heightened border security," said Ricardo Sandoval, assistant special agent in charge for ICE HSI in El Centro, Calif. "Frustrated by our defenses, they're literally going underground, but we're thwarting them there as well. That's owing to the extraordinary ongoing enforcement efforts involving the agencies here and in Mexico."
In the last four years, authorities have uncovered more than 10 smuggling tunnels in the area around Calexico and the neighboring city of Mexicali, Mexico.
Bird Flu is Back;UN Urges Care
– The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has urged heightened preparedness and surveillance amid signs that a mutant strain of the deadly bird flu virus is spreading in Asia and beyond.
While the H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus was eliminated from most of the 63 countries infected at its peak in 2006, it remained endemic in six nations. Outbreaks have risen since then, with almost 800 cases recorded between 2010 and 2011, FAO said in a news release.
The agency’s chief veterinary officer, Juan Lubroth, said that migrations have helped the virus travel over long distances and expand geographically. In the past two years, the H5N1 virus has shown up in poultry or wild birds in countries that had been virus-free for several years.
Areas recently affected by the virus are found in Israel and the Palestinian territories, Bulgaria, Romania, Nepal and Mongolia.
Mr. Lubroth said another cause for concern is the appearance in China and Viet Nam of a variant virus that is able to bypass the defences provided by existing vaccines.
Most of the northern and central parts of Viet Nam, where H5N1 is endemic, have been invaded by the new virus strain, known as H5N1 – 2.3.2.1. The country had suspended its springtime poultry vaccination campaign this year.
Viet Nam’s veterinary services are on high alert and reportedly considering a targeted vaccination campaign this fall. FAO noted that virus circulation in Viet Nam poses a direct threat to Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia as well as endangering the Korean peninsula and Japan. Wild bird migration can also spread the virus to other continents.
Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia and Viet Nam, where the virus is still firmly entrenched, are likely to face the biggest problems but all countries need to be vigilant, said Mr. Lubroth.
“Preparedness and surveillance remain essential,” he stressed. “This is no time for complacency. No one can let their guard down with H5N1.”
Speaking to UN Radio, Mr. Lubroth said that there is no indication that the new virus strain will behave differently than the previous one or that it is more dangerous to humans. He also noted that all countries, and not just those where the virus is entrenched, should be concerned that it has not been possible to eliminate and contain the H5N1 virus.
Poultry production and marketing will determine how the disease will spread, he pointed out. “Production practices and marketing practices should be better regulated and more hygienic, as the consumer needs to be protected as well as the production facilities because so many people’s livelihoods depend upon poultry and poultry rearing,” he stated.
Since 2003 the H5N1 virus has killed or forced the culling of more than 400 million domestic poultry and caused an estimated $20 billion of economic damage across the globe before it was eliminated from most of the 63 infected countries.
It has infected 565 people since it first appeared, killing 331 of them, according to the UN World Health Organization (WHO). The latest death occurred earlier this month in Cambodia, which has registered eight cases of human infection this year – all of them fatal.
While the H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus was eliminated from most of the 63 countries infected at its peak in 2006, it remained endemic in six nations. Outbreaks have risen since then, with almost 800 cases recorded between 2010 and 2011, FAO said in a news release.
The agency’s chief veterinary officer, Juan Lubroth, said that migrations have helped the virus travel over long distances and expand geographically. In the past two years, the H5N1 virus has shown up in poultry or wild birds in countries that had been virus-free for several years.
Areas recently affected by the virus are found in Israel and the Palestinian territories, Bulgaria, Romania, Nepal and Mongolia.
Mr. Lubroth said another cause for concern is the appearance in China and Viet Nam of a variant virus that is able to bypass the defences provided by existing vaccines.
Most of the northern and central parts of Viet Nam, where H5N1 is endemic, have been invaded by the new virus strain, known as H5N1 – 2.3.2.1. The country had suspended its springtime poultry vaccination campaign this year.
Viet Nam’s veterinary services are on high alert and reportedly considering a targeted vaccination campaign this fall. FAO noted that virus circulation in Viet Nam poses a direct threat to Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia as well as endangering the Korean peninsula and Japan. Wild bird migration can also spread the virus to other continents.
Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia and Viet Nam, where the virus is still firmly entrenched, are likely to face the biggest problems but all countries need to be vigilant, said Mr. Lubroth.
“Preparedness and surveillance remain essential,” he stressed. “This is no time for complacency. No one can let their guard down with H5N1.”
Speaking to UN Radio, Mr. Lubroth said that there is no indication that the new virus strain will behave differently than the previous one or that it is more dangerous to humans. He also noted that all countries, and not just those where the virus is entrenched, should be concerned that it has not been possible to eliminate and contain the H5N1 virus.
Poultry production and marketing will determine how the disease will spread, he pointed out. “Production practices and marketing practices should be better regulated and more hygienic, as the consumer needs to be protected as well as the production facilities because so many people’s livelihoods depend upon poultry and poultry rearing,” he stated.
Since 2003 the H5N1 virus has killed or forced the culling of more than 400 million domestic poultry and caused an estimated $20 billion of economic damage across the globe before it was eliminated from most of the 63 infected countries.
It has infected 565 people since it first appeared, killing 331 of them, according to the UN World Health Organization (WHO). The latest death occurred earlier this month in Cambodia, which has registered eight cases of human infection this year – all of them fatal.
Israeli Defense Minister on security threats in South
IDF RELEASE
On Monday (August 29), Defense Minister Ehud Barak addressed the security situation in southern Israel, ten days after the terror attacks north of Eilat, during a visit to the ELTA factory of the Israel Aerospace Industries.
"We're on high-alert in the south today, facing a potential terrorist attack similar to that of ten days ago," Barak said. "We're determined to target the terrorists responsible for the attacks and thwart this one. Once again, those responsible are in the Gaza Strip; not only Islamic Jihad, but also Hamas and other forces [in Gaza]."
Barak said that within the next ten days, a third Iron Dome anti-rocket battery will be stationed protecting the city of Ashdod, home to over 200,000 civilians. Two batteries are already deployed in the Ashkelon area (home to over 100,000 residents) and in the Be'er Sheva area (home to over 180,000 residents).
"By the end of the year, we plan on acquiring a fourth battery, as part of the national emergency plan," Barak said. "There will be nine batteries within less than two years. This will revamp the security of Israel's residents, who are still in need of shelters. It will also give the political echelon greater freedom to operate with strength [against Israel's enemies]."
Barak also referred to Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz's order to bolster forces in southern Israel and at the Israel-Egypt border due to a concrete warning that the Islamic Jihad organization intends to carry out a terrorist attack in the region.
"We understand that the terrorist attack that took place 10 days ago may not have been the last," Barak said. "We're preparing with everything at our disposal to recognize, defend and thwart in case anybody attempts such an attack again. I repeat: the terrorists in Gaza will not come out clean."
On Monday (August 29), Defense Minister Ehud Barak addressed the security situation in southern Israel, ten days after the terror attacks north of Eilat, during a visit to the ELTA factory of the Israel Aerospace Industries.
"We're on high-alert in the south today, facing a potential terrorist attack similar to that of ten days ago," Barak said. "We're determined to target the terrorists responsible for the attacks and thwart this one. Once again, those responsible are in the Gaza Strip; not only Islamic Jihad, but also Hamas and other forces [in Gaza]."
Barak said that within the next ten days, a third Iron Dome anti-rocket battery will be stationed protecting the city of Ashdod, home to over 200,000 civilians. Two batteries are already deployed in the Ashkelon area (home to over 100,000 residents) and in the Be'er Sheva area (home to over 180,000 residents).
"By the end of the year, we plan on acquiring a fourth battery, as part of the national emergency plan," Barak said. "There will be nine batteries within less than two years. This will revamp the security of Israel's residents, who are still in need of shelters. It will also give the political echelon greater freedom to operate with strength [against Israel's enemies]."
Barak also referred to Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz's order to bolster forces in southern Israel and at the Israel-Egypt border due to a concrete warning that the Islamic Jihad organization intends to carry out a terrorist attack in the region.
"We understand that the terrorist attack that took place 10 days ago may not have been the last," Barak said. "We're preparing with everything at our disposal to recognize, defend and thwart in case anybody attempts such an attack again. I repeat: the terrorists in Gaza will not come out clean."
Middle School plans soldier send-off
Todd Martin
KISD Public Information
Manor Middle School is planning a grand send-off for their deploying Adopt-A-School unit, the 41st Fires Brigade, with a pep rally at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, September 1 in the school gym.
Manor students will be dressed in red and white, the school's and the unit's colors. Students will wave American flags and display banners. The band will play and the school's cheerleaders and dance team will perform.
In addition, Manor Principal Joseph Welch and brigade commander LTC Everett are scheduled to make presentations. The school is expecting 163 soldiers to take part in this event.
KISD Public Information
Manor Middle School is planning a grand send-off for their deploying Adopt-A-School unit, the 41st Fires Brigade, with a pep rally at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, September 1 in the school gym.
Manor students will be dressed in red and white, the school's and the unit's colors. Students will wave American flags and display banners. The band will play and the school's cheerleaders and dance team will perform.
In addition, Manor Principal Joseph Welch and brigade commander LTC Everett are scheduled to make presentations. The school is expecting 163 soldiers to take part in this event.
Monday, August 29, 2011
New clinic coming to Killeen
Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center
Public Affairs Office
FORT HOOD, Texas –Family members of active duty Soldiers stationed at Fort Hood will soon have more convenient access to healthcare with the Sept. 8 opening and ribbon cutting for the Killeen Medical Home Clinic, a community-based primary care clinic; the ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. and is open to the public.
The Killeen Medical Home is located at 3404 Kaydence Court just off Elms Road near Stan Schlueter Loop.
This clinic is the last clinic among three “medical home” clinics to open in local Fort Hood communities. The clinic is also one among 19 medical home clinics the Army is opening near Army installations across the U.S. and Hawaii.
The “medical home” concept of care enhances the patient experience: Patients partner with a team of healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive, personal healthcare plan.
Part of the plan includes prevention screening and services and management of chronic conditions.
The clinic is in leased space and staffed with civilian employees. Patients will still have the option of using Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center for emergency and specialized care.
Eligible patients have already received a letter in the mail explaining how to request a change in enrollment to the Killeen Medical Home clinic.
Public Affairs Office
FORT HOOD, Texas –Family members of active duty Soldiers stationed at Fort Hood will soon have more convenient access to healthcare with the Sept. 8 opening and ribbon cutting for the Killeen Medical Home Clinic, a community-based primary care clinic; the ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. and is open to the public.
The Killeen Medical Home is located at 3404 Kaydence Court just off Elms Road near Stan Schlueter Loop.
This clinic is the last clinic among three “medical home” clinics to open in local Fort Hood communities. The clinic is also one among 19 medical home clinics the Army is opening near Army installations across the U.S. and Hawaii.
The “medical home” concept of care enhances the patient experience: Patients partner with a team of healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive, personal healthcare plan.
Part of the plan includes prevention screening and services and management of chronic conditions.
The clinic is in leased space and staffed with civilian employees. Patients will still have the option of using Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center for emergency and specialized care.
Eligible patients have already received a letter in the mail explaining how to request a change in enrollment to the Killeen Medical Home clinic.
Fire Fighters Respond To Attic Fire in North Temple
TEMPLE FIRE AND RESCUE RELEASE-CPT. JONATHAN CHRISTIAN
Temple Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a possible structure fire at 1009 N 5th St. The 1 Alarm Fire came in Sunday evening August 28th at 5:04 PM and the first unit arrived at 5:08 PM. The First unit observed smoke coming from the roof and quickly made entry into the house to search for anyone inside and locate the fire. All the residents were confirmed out of the house and crews were unable to locate any fire inside the house. Crews then opened the roof to find heavy smoke, heat and fire in the attic. Crews were able to confine and extinguish the fires in the attic. The Fire was classified under control at 5:29 PM. Crews used salvage covers and tarps to help protect the contents of the house from water used to extinguish the attic. There was moderate damage to the attic and roof with minimal damage to the rest of the house and contents. All units cleared the scene by 6:46 PM.
A total of 3 Engines, 1 Quint, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Grass truck, 1 Command Vehicle, and several support vehicles including EMS, TPD and ONCOR responded. This accounted for 18 Temple Fire Personnel on scene. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental due to faulty electrical wiring in the attic.
The Family was displaced and is staying with relatives. Temple Fire & Rescue encourages everyone to check their smoke alarms regularly. They can alert you to a fire and give you valuable time to get out and call for help.
Temple Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a possible structure fire at 1009 N 5th St. The 1 Alarm Fire came in Sunday evening August 28th at 5:04 PM and the first unit arrived at 5:08 PM. The First unit observed smoke coming from the roof and quickly made entry into the house to search for anyone inside and locate the fire. All the residents were confirmed out of the house and crews were unable to locate any fire inside the house. Crews then opened the roof to find heavy smoke, heat and fire in the attic. Crews were able to confine and extinguish the fires in the attic. The Fire was classified under control at 5:29 PM. Crews used salvage covers and tarps to help protect the contents of the house from water used to extinguish the attic. There was moderate damage to the attic and roof with minimal damage to the rest of the house and contents. All units cleared the scene by 6:46 PM.
A total of 3 Engines, 1 Quint, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Grass truck, 1 Command Vehicle, and several support vehicles including EMS, TPD and ONCOR responded. This accounted for 18 Temple Fire Personnel on scene. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental due to faulty electrical wiring in the attic.
The Family was displaced and is staying with relatives. Temple Fire & Rescue encourages everyone to check their smoke alarms regularly. They can alert you to a fire and give you valuable time to get out and call for help.
Ft Hood Training Death: SGT Dennis Lamont Lee
ERCOT: Vital Need for Conservation Today Through Tuesday
Statement from ERCOT:
"As we expected, this weekend’s temperatures and electricity usage have been record-breaking. ERCOT broke a new record yesterday for peak weekend usage and it’s likely that we’ll hit a new all-time peak demand record on Monday or Tuesday. We can’t stress this enough; we need everyone to conserve electricity from 3-7 p.m. If every person in ERCOT does a little, it makes a huge difference."
Conservation Tips
Consumers can help by shutting off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances between 3 and 7 p.m., and delaying laundry and other activities requiring electricity-consuming appliances until later in the evening. Other conservation tips from the Public Utility Commission’s “Powerful Advice” include:
■Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
■When at home, close blinds and drapes that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler.
■When away from home, set air conditioning thermostats to 85 degrees and turn all fans off before you leave. Block the sun by closing blinds or drapes on windows that will get direct sun.
■Do not use your dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other home appliances during the peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
■Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
■Use microwaves for cooking instead of an electric range or oven.
■Set your pool pump to run in the early morning or evening instead of the afternoon.
Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible. Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.
"As we expected, this weekend’s temperatures and electricity usage have been record-breaking. ERCOT broke a new record yesterday for peak weekend usage and it’s likely that we’ll hit a new all-time peak demand record on Monday or Tuesday. We can’t stress this enough; we need everyone to conserve electricity from 3-7 p.m. If every person in ERCOT does a little, it makes a huge difference."
Conservation Tips
Consumers can help by shutting off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances between 3 and 7 p.m., and delaying laundry and other activities requiring electricity-consuming appliances until later in the evening. Other conservation tips from the Public Utility Commission’s “Powerful Advice” include:
■Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
■When at home, close blinds and drapes that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler.
■When away from home, set air conditioning thermostats to 85 degrees and turn all fans off before you leave. Block the sun by closing blinds or drapes on windows that will get direct sun.
■Do not use your dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other home appliances during the peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
■Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
■Use microwaves for cooking instead of an electric range or oven.
■Set your pool pump to run in the early morning or evening instead of the afternoon.
Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible. Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.
Israeli Defense Forces Bolstered in South Due to Terror Threat
Move follows a concrete warning that Islamic Jihad plans to conduct attack in region
IDF RELEASE
Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Benny Gantz on early Monday morning (August 29) ordered the reinforcement of IDF forces near the southern Gaza Strip and on the Israel-Egypt border due to a concrete warning that the Islamic Jihad organization is intending to carry out a terrorist attack in the region.
The decision to bolster IDF forces in the south was coordinated with Egypt.
The IDF views the Hamas terrorist organization as responsible for any terrorist activities emanating from the Gaza Strip.
Last Friday, Lt. Gen. Gantz visited the Israel-Egypt border.
"Residents of the border region rely on us to protect them," Lt. Gen. Gantz said. "Terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip are exploiting the security situation in Sinai to use it as a springboard to execute attacks on the border with Israel."
"Peace with Egypt has great strategic importance," Lt. Gen. Gantz added.
Following the terrorist attacks north of Eilat on August 18, Lt. Gen. Gantz ordered the reinforcement of IDF soldiers in the south and the implementation of new methods to secure the border. Lt. Gen. Gantz also ordered the bolstering intelligence capabilities in the border area, including unmanned aerial drones.
IDF RELEASE
Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Benny Gantz on early Monday morning (August 29) ordered the reinforcement of IDF forces near the southern Gaza Strip and on the Israel-Egypt border due to a concrete warning that the Islamic Jihad organization is intending to carry out a terrorist attack in the region.
The decision to bolster IDF forces in the south was coordinated with Egypt.
The IDF views the Hamas terrorist organization as responsible for any terrorist activities emanating from the Gaza Strip.
Last Friday, Lt. Gen. Gantz visited the Israel-Egypt border.
"Residents of the border region rely on us to protect them," Lt. Gen. Gantz said. "Terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip are exploiting the security situation in Sinai to use it as a springboard to execute attacks on the border with Israel."
"Peace with Egypt has great strategic importance," Lt. Gen. Gantz added.
Following the terrorist attacks north of Eilat on August 18, Lt. Gen. Gantz ordered the reinforcement of IDF soldiers in the south and the implementation of new methods to secure the border. Lt. Gen. Gantz also ordered the bolstering intelligence capabilities in the border area, including unmanned aerial drones.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Temple Fire Fighters Battle 2 Alarm Industrial Fire
Temple Fire and Rescue Release
Temple Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a call for smoke in the area at 6:48 am on Sunday morning the 28th of August. While en route the call was upgraded to a structure fire and a regular alarm assignment was dispatched to 4310 Lucius McCelvey Dr at Integrico Composites. The First arriving unit arrived on scene at 6:55 to find heavy smoke and fire coming from materials stored outside the building. Temple Quint 6 was the first arriving unit and they quickly set up and placed the aerial ladder in order to protect the structure. The incident commander quickly called for a second alarm for additional resources. Later arriving units were able to make entry into the building where they found some fire had moved into the building. Crews were able to confine and extinguish the fires inside the building and prevent any further damage. The Fire was classified under control at 7:52 am. Several crews remained on scene until around 9:30 am when most of the crews cleared to return to their districts. Personnel will be remaining on scene for several hours to ensure that there are no smoldering fires.
A total of 5 Engines 1, 1 Quint, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Grass truck, 1 Command Vehicle, and several support vehicles including EMS and TPD responded. This accounted for 26 Temple Fire Personnel on scene. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded and is investigating the fire as a suspicious fire.
Due to a working fire sprinkler system the fire that did get inside the building was kept under control so that responding crews could extinguish the fire and protect the rest of the building from the fire. If the building had not had a working Fire Sprinkler System the damage to the building would have been much greater.
Temple Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a call for smoke in the area at 6:48 am on Sunday morning the 28th of August. While en route the call was upgraded to a structure fire and a regular alarm assignment was dispatched to 4310 Lucius McCelvey Dr at Integrico Composites. The First arriving unit arrived on scene at 6:55 to find heavy smoke and fire coming from materials stored outside the building. Temple Quint 6 was the first arriving unit and they quickly set up and placed the aerial ladder in order to protect the structure. The incident commander quickly called for a second alarm for additional resources. Later arriving units were able to make entry into the building where they found some fire had moved into the building. Crews were able to confine and extinguish the fires inside the building and prevent any further damage. The Fire was classified under control at 7:52 am. Several crews remained on scene until around 9:30 am when most of the crews cleared to return to their districts. Personnel will be remaining on scene for several hours to ensure that there are no smoldering fires.
A total of 5 Engines 1, 1 Quint, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Grass truck, 1 Command Vehicle, and several support vehicles including EMS and TPD responded. This accounted for 26 Temple Fire Personnel on scene. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded and is investigating the fire as a suspicious fire.
Due to a working fire sprinkler system the fire that did get inside the building was kept under control so that responding crews could extinguish the fire and protect the rest of the building from the fire. If the building had not had a working Fire Sprinkler System the damage to the building would have been much greater.
Coast Guard Rescues 3 After Helicopter Lands at Sea
(USCG RELEASE)
HOUSTON — The Coast Guard rescued three people after their helicopter made an emergency landing approximately 10 miles from Sabine Pass, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Sector Houston-Galveston received a call from Rotorcraft Leasing Company, LLC., owner of the helicopter, stating that the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing, and the crew of three were entering a life raft. The company also gave watchstanders the position of the downed helicopter.
The Coast Guard launched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium and crew from Station Sabine, and an MH-65 Dolphin rescue helicopter and crew from Air Station Houston to assist. The RBS arrived onscene and took the three uninjured crewmembers of the downed helicopter onboard. The three were transported to Station Sabine where they were met by representatives from Rotorcraft.
The helicopter is currently in tow via a commercial towing service.
"Thankfully the pilot was able to make his emergency landing safely so that our crews could pick them up," said Petty Officer 1st Class Joe Medina, search and rescue controller at Sector Houston-Galveston. "Having good working safety equipment also helped in this successful rescue."
HOUSTON — The Coast Guard rescued three people after their helicopter made an emergency landing approximately 10 miles from Sabine Pass, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Sector Houston-Galveston received a call from Rotorcraft Leasing Company, LLC., owner of the helicopter, stating that the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing, and the crew of three were entering a life raft. The company also gave watchstanders the position of the downed helicopter.
The Coast Guard launched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium and crew from Station Sabine, and an MH-65 Dolphin rescue helicopter and crew from Air Station Houston to assist. The RBS arrived onscene and took the three uninjured crewmembers of the downed helicopter onboard. The three were transported to Station Sabine where they were met by representatives from Rotorcraft.
The helicopter is currently in tow via a commercial towing service.
"Thankfully the pilot was able to make his emergency landing safely so that our crews could pick them up," said Petty Officer 1st Class Joe Medina, search and rescue controller at Sector Houston-Galveston. "Having good working safety equipment also helped in this successful rescue."
Uniting for worship in the midst of battle
116th Cavalry Regiment and 149th Infantry Regt. come together spiritually to celebrate the transfer of authority
310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq — Bright lights flooded the room, which was filled with soldiers from Oregon’s 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, and Kentucky’s 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry Regt., both belonging to the 77th Sustainment Brigade, 310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, Sunday, Aug. 21. These soldiers, including the commanders of both units and others from all ranks and jobs, united for a Sunday morning prayer brunch for two main reasons: to celebrate the completion of the 149th’s training process in transferring operations from the 116th and to ask for God’s blessing in the journeys ahead for each unit.
After a brief speech from the 116th Cav. and 149th Inf. Regt. commanders, each unit’s chaplain led the group in teaching of lessons learned in the deployment and a moment of prayer aimed at offering fellowship between two units from different ways of life and complete opposite ends of the U.S.
Capt. Jock Johnson, the 116th Regt. chaplain, a native of Heppner, Ore., said, “It’s important to realize that our fellow brothers and sisters aren’t our enemy on deployment. Realizing the value of our teams is important, however.”
Overall, the prayer brunch offered a reminder to soldiers of the importance of a strong spirit in the face of adversity.
Maj. Brian Seidel, chaplain of 149th Regt. and a native of London, Ky., said, “The spiritual component of [a Soldier’s] total fitness is often undervalued till crisis. Sometimes we don’t appreciate the significance of spiritual fitness till we desperately need it. But we need it for all of life, the good and the bad.”
For both units in the months to come, perhaps good spirits will be useful to successfully finishing their respective missions.
310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq — Bright lights flooded the room, which was filled with soldiers from Oregon’s 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, and Kentucky’s 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry Regt., both belonging to the 77th Sustainment Brigade, 310th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, Sunday, Aug. 21. These soldiers, including the commanders of both units and others from all ranks and jobs, united for a Sunday morning prayer brunch for two main reasons: to celebrate the completion of the 149th’s training process in transferring operations from the 116th and to ask for God’s blessing in the journeys ahead for each unit.
After a brief speech from the 116th Cav. and 149th Inf. Regt. commanders, each unit’s chaplain led the group in teaching of lessons learned in the deployment and a moment of prayer aimed at offering fellowship between two units from different ways of life and complete opposite ends of the U.S.
Capt. Jock Johnson, the 116th Regt. chaplain, a native of Heppner, Ore., said, “It’s important to realize that our fellow brothers and sisters aren’t our enemy on deployment. Realizing the value of our teams is important, however.”
Overall, the prayer brunch offered a reminder to soldiers of the importance of a strong spirit in the face of adversity.
Maj. Brian Seidel, chaplain of 149th Regt. and a native of London, Ky., said, “The spiritual component of [a Soldier’s] total fitness is often undervalued till crisis. Sometimes we don’t appreciate the significance of spiritual fitness till we desperately need it. But we need it for all of life, the good and the bad.”
For both units in the months to come, perhaps good spirits will be useful to successfully finishing their respective missions.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Children Killed in Terrorist Attacks in Lashkar Gah and Kandahar Cities
ISAF Headquarters Public Affairs Office
KABUL, Afghanistan (August 27, 2011) - Gen. John R. Allen, Commander of International Security Assistance Force, joins President Karzai in condemning today's terrorist attacks on innocent civilians in both Lashkar Gah City and Kandahar City.
According to reports, the suicide attack in Lashkar Gah City murdered four and wounded several while two attacks in Kandahar City resulted in more than 20 wounded with the majority of them being children.
"This is another example of the insurgents having no regard for the Afghan people," said Gen. Allen. "Attacking innocent civilians to include such a large number of children speaks to the cowardice of the insurgents and utter disregard for Afghan life.
KABUL, Afghanistan (August 27, 2011) - Gen. John R. Allen, Commander of International Security Assistance Force, joins President Karzai in condemning today's terrorist attacks on innocent civilians in both Lashkar Gah City and Kandahar City.
According to reports, the suicide attack in Lashkar Gah City murdered four and wounded several while two attacks in Kandahar City resulted in more than 20 wounded with the majority of them being children.
"This is another example of the insurgents having no regard for the Afghan people," said Gen. Allen. "Attacking innocent civilians to include such a large number of children speaks to the cowardice of the insurgents and utter disregard for Afghan life.
Texas Third Court of Appeals Upholds YFZ Ranch Defendant's Conviction
State appeals court affirms Michael George Emack’s conviction, rules that April 2008 search warrants were valid and constitutional
AUSTIN – The Third Court of Appeals in Austin Friday affirmed Michael George Emack’s conviction for sexually assaulting a child. The state appeals court rejected Emack’s appeal and ruled that law enforcement authorities’ April 2008 search of the YFZ Ranch in Schleicher County was properly based on adequate probable cause and therefore legally justified. Emack attempted to avoid his seven-year prison sentence for sexually assaulting a 16-year-old female by arguing that authorities’ search violated his rights under the First and Fourth Amendments.
“Today’s Third Court of Appeals decision rejected Michael Emack’s attempt to avoid imprisonment after he pled guilty to sexually assaulting a 16-year-old child,” Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott said. “The search warrant authorizing law enforcement to enter the YFZ Ranch was legally proper – and ultimately led to the indictment and conviction of multiple men, including Warren Jeffs, who sexually assaulted children. With today’s decision, which also rejected the Emack’s baseless attempt to defend his illegal conduct as an exercise of religion, the State’s efforts to extinguish widespread sexual abuse at the YFZ Ranch secured a significant victory.”
Emack’s appeal challenged the constitutionality of the April 3 search warrant that authorized Texas law enforcement officials to access the YFZ Ranch in Schleicher County. The defendant argued that information obtained by investigators during that initial search was improperly used to support a second search warrant that law enforcement executed on April 6.
Rejecting the defendant’s legal arguments, the Third Court of Appeals’ opinion stated: “We do not address the merits of appellant’s challenges to the April 3 search ... because the information gathered during the search was not critical to a finding of probable of cause to issue the April 6 warrant.”
The Third Court of Appeals also dismissed Emack’s claim that the documentary evidence collected by law enforcement during the second search on April 6 should have been suppressed. Additionally, the court rejected the defendant’s claim that the law enforcement officer’s April 6 probable cause affidavit omitted “material facts” – such as the identity of the caller who originally prompted the State’s investigation into illegal conduct at the YFZ Ranch.
Emack also failed to convince the court that the searches of the YFZ Ranch violated his constitutional rights under the First Amendment’s Free Exercise Clause. Rejecting the defendant’s attempt to insulate himself from criminal prosecution by invoking his purported religious beliefs, the court ruled:
“Appellant does not point to evidence that would support a finding that the searches conducted at the YFZ Ranch curtailed his ability to express adherence to his faith through a particular religiously motivated act or that the searches otherwise pressured him to modify his religious conduct. Similarly, appellant has not shown that the searches at issue limited his First Amendment right to freely exercise his religious faith.”
“The judgment of conviction is affirmed,” the Third Court of Appeals concluded.
Texan Killed in Kandahar-PFC Jesse Dietrich
DOD Identifies Army Casualty
DOD RELEASE
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Jesse W. Dietrich, 20, of Venus, Texas, died Aug. 25 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.
DOD RELEASE
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Jesse W. Dietrich, 20, of Venus, Texas, died Aug. 25 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.
Coast Guard seizes Mexican fishing vessels in Gulf o
USCG RELEASE
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Law Enforcement crews from Coast Guard Station South Padre Island intercepted two Mexican vessels fishing illegally in U.S. waters, Wednesday.
Both Mexican vessels and approximately 15,000 feet of deployed long-line gear were seized. The six crew members from both fishing vessels were turned over to U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.
Shortly after 9 a.m., Wednesday, a HU-25 Falcon Air Station Corpus Christi spotted the fishing vessels, known as “lanchas”, retrieving longline gear inside the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone.
A Station South Padre Island law enforcement boat crew aboard a 33-foot Special Purpose Craft - Law Enforcement (SPC-LE) was launched to investigate the report. Once on scene, the Coast Guard crew spotted a lancha collecting fishing gear. The SPC-LE briefly gave chase to the lancha before the operator complied with orders to stop.
The Coast Guard crew later located a second lancha collecting long-line gear in the U.S. Exclusive Economic zone and stopped the vessel without incident. A second Coast Guard SPC-LE was dispatched to recover and confiscate the fishing gear. The crew also released over 40 live sharks back into the Gulf of Mexico.
"Coast Guard Station South Padre Island routinely interdicts lanchas fishing illegally in the U.S. EEZ, with over 30 such seizures this year," said Lt. Joshua Sagers, Commanding Officer of Station South Padre Island. "In addition to Search and Rescue and Homeland Security, protection and management of vital living marine resources in U.S. is a primary mission of the Coast Guard."
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Law Enforcement crews from Coast Guard Station South Padre Island intercepted two Mexican vessels fishing illegally in U.S. waters, Wednesday.
Both Mexican vessels and approximately 15,000 feet of deployed long-line gear were seized. The six crew members from both fishing vessels were turned over to U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.
Shortly after 9 a.m., Wednesday, a HU-25 Falcon Air Station Corpus Christi spotted the fishing vessels, known as “lanchas”, retrieving longline gear inside the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone.
A Station South Padre Island law enforcement boat crew aboard a 33-foot Special Purpose Craft - Law Enforcement (SPC-LE) was launched to investigate the report. Once on scene, the Coast Guard crew spotted a lancha collecting fishing gear. The SPC-LE briefly gave chase to the lancha before the operator complied with orders to stop.
The Coast Guard crew later located a second lancha collecting long-line gear in the U.S. Exclusive Economic zone and stopped the vessel without incident. A second Coast Guard SPC-LE was dispatched to recover and confiscate the fishing gear. The crew also released over 40 live sharks back into the Gulf of Mexico.
"Coast Guard Station South Padre Island routinely interdicts lanchas fishing illegally in the U.S. EEZ, with over 30 such seizures this year," said Lt. Joshua Sagers, Commanding Officer of Station South Padre Island. "In addition to Search and Rescue and Homeland Security, protection and management of vital living marine resources in U.S. is a primary mission of the Coast Guard."
COAST GUARD: DEEPWATER WELL NOT LEAKING
Investigation determines Macondo 252 well head not leaking
NEW ORLEANS — Two remotely operated vehicles deployed to the Macondo 252 well head in the Gulf of Mexico, Thursday, have confirmed there is no oil leaking from the well head.
As part of the investigation into recent National Response Center reports of sheen observed in the vicinity of the source of last year's BP oil spill, two ROVs were deployed from the Grant Candies at approximately 4:30 p.m., to survey the well head. The ROVs began an initial 360 degree survey of the well head at 5:16 p.m., with a 20-foot radius, looking for evidence of leaking oil. Additionally, a zoom lens was used to examine both the well head and the base of the well head to look for smaller, less obvious signs of leakage. The ROV also visited the two relief well sites with negative findings. The survey concluded at approximately 2:30 a.m., and no evidence of leaking oil was found.
”U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Morgan City conducted an intense investigation to determine if there was a discharge of oil, and if so, the source,” said Capt. Jonathan Burton, commanding officer of MSU Morgan City. “This included checking all parties with wells or pipelines in the region as well as a Coast Guard overflight with a trained observer aboard and the dispatch of a Coast Guard patrol boat to the area. No sheen was sighted Thursday in virtually perfect conditions.”
Experts from the Coast Guard, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, BOEMRE, DOI, and representatives from BP, as well as the State On-Scene Coordinators for Louisiana and Mississippi, viewed the live feed from the ROVs and agreed that nothing shown from the ROVs indicated any sort of leak from the well head.
The ROVs are being brought to the surface where the video and data collected will be verified for accuracy.
“Sheen sightings are frequent in the Gulf of Mexico and despite the fact each is fully investigated, the source cannot always be determined. This was the case in the Morgan City zone for more than 300 reports last year," Burton said.
In 2010, MSU Morgan City received 2,231 NRC reports of which 372 reported sheens were of an unknown origin.
NEW ORLEANS — Two remotely operated vehicles deployed to the Macondo 252 well head in the Gulf of Mexico, Thursday, have confirmed there is no oil leaking from the well head.
As part of the investigation into recent National Response Center reports of sheen observed in the vicinity of the source of last year's BP oil spill, two ROVs were deployed from the Grant Candies at approximately 4:30 p.m., to survey the well head. The ROVs began an initial 360 degree survey of the well head at 5:16 p.m., with a 20-foot radius, looking for evidence of leaking oil. Additionally, a zoom lens was used to examine both the well head and the base of the well head to look for smaller, less obvious signs of leakage. The ROV also visited the two relief well sites with negative findings. The survey concluded at approximately 2:30 a.m., and no evidence of leaking oil was found.
”U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Morgan City conducted an intense investigation to determine if there was a discharge of oil, and if so, the source,” said Capt. Jonathan Burton, commanding officer of MSU Morgan City. “This included checking all parties with wells or pipelines in the region as well as a Coast Guard overflight with a trained observer aboard and the dispatch of a Coast Guard patrol boat to the area. No sheen was sighted Thursday in virtually perfect conditions.”
Experts from the Coast Guard, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, BOEMRE, DOI, and representatives from BP, as well as the State On-Scene Coordinators for Louisiana and Mississippi, viewed the live feed from the ROVs and agreed that nothing shown from the ROVs indicated any sort of leak from the well head.
The ROVs are being brought to the surface where the video and data collected will be verified for accuracy.
“Sheen sightings are frequent in the Gulf of Mexico and despite the fact each is fully investigated, the source cannot always be determined. This was the case in the Morgan City zone for more than 300 reports last year," Burton said.
In 2010, MSU Morgan City received 2,231 NRC reports of which 372 reported sheens were of an unknown origin.
ERCOT: Conserve Electricity This Weekend
Statement from ERCOT CEO Trip Doggett on the need for conservation this weekend
Our information indicates this weekend will be one of the hottest on record in some areas of Texas. Electric demand and usage will be extremely high and we need every person to help us conserve electricity between the hours of 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Please help us keep the power flowing to every Texan in ERCOT by turning up your thermostat a few degrees if you''re able, turning off unnecessary lights and appliances and doing dishes and laundry in the morning or after 7 p.m.
Your efforts do make a difference and are appreciated.
Conservation Tips
Consumers can help by shutting off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances between 3 and 7 p.m., and delaying laundry and other activities requiring electricity-consuming appliances until later in the evening. Other conservation tips from the Public Utility Commission’s “Powerful Advice” include:
■Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
■When at home, close blinds and drapes that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler.
■When away from home, set air conditioning thermostats to 85 degrees and turn all fans off before you leave. Block the sun by closing blinds or drapes on windows that will get direct sun.
■Do not use your dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other home appliances during the peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
■Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
■Use microwaves for cooking instead of an electric range or oven.
■Set your pool pump to run in the early morning or evening instead of the afternoon.
Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible. Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.
Our information indicates this weekend will be one of the hottest on record in some areas of Texas. Electric demand and usage will be extremely high and we need every person to help us conserve electricity between the hours of 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Please help us keep the power flowing to every Texan in ERCOT by turning up your thermostat a few degrees if you''re able, turning off unnecessary lights and appliances and doing dishes and laundry in the morning or after 7 p.m.
Your efforts do make a difference and are appreciated.
Conservation Tips
Consumers can help by shutting off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances between 3 and 7 p.m., and delaying laundry and other activities requiring electricity-consuming appliances until later in the evening. Other conservation tips from the Public Utility Commission’s “Powerful Advice” include:
■Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
■When at home, close blinds and drapes that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler.
■When away from home, set air conditioning thermostats to 85 degrees and turn all fans off before you leave. Block the sun by closing blinds or drapes on windows that will get direct sun.
■Do not use your dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other home appliances during the peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
■Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
■Use microwaves for cooking instead of an electric range or oven.
■Set your pool pump to run in the early morning or evening instead of the afternoon.
Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible. Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.
DOD Identifies Unit for Upcoming Afghanistan Rotation
DOD RELEASE
The Department of Defense announced today a unit to deploy as part of the upcoming rotation of forces operating in Afghanistan. The announcement involves one brigade combat team totaling about 3,200 soldiers. The scheduled deployment date for this unit is December 2011.
Specific unit:
3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.
The Department of Defense announced today a unit to deploy as part of the upcoming rotation of forces operating in Afghanistan. The announcement involves one brigade combat team totaling about 3,200 soldiers. The scheduled deployment date for this unit is December 2011.
Specific unit:
3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.
Bryan Road Closure – Fatality Accident Investigation
Bryan PD Release
On Monday August 29th, 2011 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, Highway 6 from Highway 21 to Tabor Road will be closed due to a follow up investigation by the Bryan Police Department. The northbound lanes will be closed as the Traffic Safety Unit investigates the rollover fatality accident that occurred on August 21st. Southbound lanes on Highway 6 will remain open. Traffic headed northbound will exit at Highway 21on the eastbound frontage. Once past Highway 21, they will be able to reenter the freeway.
Please use caution when traveling through this area and expect delays in northbound traffic. Officers will be in the area working on foot while wearing orange vests. These officers will be in and out of traffic as they investigate, so please be careful passing through the area and slow down.
The Bryan Police Department would like to remind all motorists that Texas enacted the Move Over Law in September of 2003. The law requires drivers nearing stopped emergency vehicles, with lights activated, to either slow down or change lanes.
The “Move Over Law” requires drivers to take the following actions.
· Vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle if the highway has two or more lanes traveling the direction of the emergency vehicle.
· Slow to a speed not more than 20 mph less than the posted speed limit when the posted speed limit is 25 mph or more.
· Slow to a speed not more than 5 mph when the posted speed limit is less than 25 mph.
Emergency vehicles include police, emergency medical service and fire vehicles. A violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $200. If the violation results in property damage, the maximum fine increases to $500. If the violation results in bodily injury, the offense is enhanced to a Class B misdemeanor.
Friday, August 26, 2011
1st Medical Brigade unit area incident
FORT HOOD PUBLIC AFFAIRSFORT HOOD, Texas -- 1st Medical Brigade personnel were ordered to remain in the unit area the morning of Aug. 26 due to an errant impact of a bullet in a company area. The order was lifted around 12:45 p.m. No injuries were reported.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation by the Fort Hood Directorate of Emergency Services.
Waco Woman Arrested in College Station Jewel Robbery
COLLEGE STATE POLICE RELEASE
On August 25, 2011 at approximately 11:15 AM, officers with the College Station Police Department responded to the 1400 block of University Drive for a report of an aggravated robbery that had occurred in the area. The victim, who is an independent jewelry salesman from out of town, told police that several masked suspects approached him and took his briefcase that contained an undetermined amount of jewelry. The suspects then fled the area in a dark green or gray vehicle.
Investigators with the department have responded to the area. They are interviewing the victim and witinesses. Two individuals have been detained. It has not yet been determined if these individuals are involved in the robbery or not. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
UPDATE:
Through further investigation, 2 suspects were identified, arrested and charged with Aggravated Robbery:
Ivan Carvajal
28 years of age
Houston, TX resident
Maria Gutierrez
35 years of age
Waco, TX resident
Further investigation is expected and additional arrests are possible.
The safety of our community does not have borders. It is the goal of every law enforcement agency to protect the citizens that we serve. Be the eyes and ears of your police department. When you see suspicious activity contact the College Station Police Department at 979-764-3600 or the Texas A&M University Police Department at 979-845-2345; contact the Bryan Police Department or the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office at 979-361-3888. Together we can make a difference in our community.
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| Maria Gutierrez |
Investigators with the department have responded to the area. They are interviewing the victim and witinesses. Two individuals have been detained. It has not yet been determined if these individuals are involved in the robbery or not. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
 |
| Ivan Carvajal-Photos courtesy Brazos Co Judicial Records |
Through further investigation, 2 suspects were identified, arrested and charged with Aggravated Robbery:
Ivan Carvajal
28 years of age
Houston, TX resident
Maria Gutierrez
35 years of age
Waco, TX resident
Further investigation is expected and additional arrests are possible.
The safety of our community does not have borders. It is the goal of every law enforcement agency to protect the citizens that we serve. Be the eyes and ears of your police department. When you see suspicious activity contact the College Station Police Department at 979-764-3600 or the Texas A&M University Police Department at 979-845-2345; contact the Bryan Police Department or the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office at 979-361-3888. Together we can make a difference in our community.
COMMISSIONER STAPLES LAUNCHES NEWLY UPDATED HAY HOTLINE
Texas Department of Agriculture’s Hay Hotline to offer hay pricing, listings for donated forage, transportation information and available grazing lands
AUSTIN — As the worst one-year drought in Texas history continues to scorch the state and deplete critical hay supplies, Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples announced several updates to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Hay Hotline. The service, which connects ranchers who need hay with those who have it, is now being updated to include prices and sources for donated hay. The Hay Hotline also now connects ranchers with transportation services to deliver hay and available grazing lands.
“Right now there is no pasture, no hay and no end in sight,” Commissioner Staples said. “The need for hay is dire and getting more desperate each day. Through the recent improvements made to the Hay Hotline, we hope to connect more ranchers with hay producers across the nation who have much-needed forage. It’s critical to do what we can to preserve the cattle herd for which Texas is known and on which American consumers rely.”
Commissioner Staples sent a letter to all commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture in other states requesting assistance in locating hay donations for Texas ranchers. The letter also requests that available grazing land or hay be listed on the Texas Hay Hotline. Additionally, Commissioner Staples encouraged his colleagues to follow the Lone Star State’s lead in waiving transportation size restrictions for hay shipments in ways that continue to protect public safety.
These hay transportation waivers have become critically important during the current record-setting drought. According to AgriLife Extension, agriculture losses due to this year’s drought have already reached $5.2 billion and are now the costliest in state history for Texas farmers and ranchers. State Climatologist Dr. John Nielsen-Gammon recently declared this year’s dry spell the “most severe one-year drought on record,” while the National Weather Service is calling it the second-worst drought in Texas history.
The Hay Hotline can be accessed by visiting www.TexasAgriculture.gov/hayhotline or by calling (877) 429-1998.
Suspect threatens to kill four year old during robbery.
WACO PD RELEASE-SGT PATRICK SWANTON
On August 18, 2011 at 7:50 pm, a man and his four year old daughter were at the Chevron gas station located at 1624 W. Waco Drive. A black male described as 5’10", 195 pounds, and stocky build, approached the victim, displayed a handgun and then got into the victim’s car. While in the car, the suspect pointed the gun at the man and then threatened to kill the victim’s four year old daughter if he did not give him all his money.
The victim complied with the suspect’s demands and the suspect got out of the car and ran from the scene. Victim believes the suspect got into a newer model Chrysler Pacifica van and left the area.
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| Suspect #1 |
The victim complied with the suspect’s demands and the suspect got out of the car and ran from the scene. Victim believes the suspect got into a newer model Chrysler Pacifica van and left the area.
 |
| Suspect #2 |
Attached to this release are photos of the suspect and suspect vehicle. Anyone who has information about this robbery is encouraged to contact the Waco Police Department at 750-7500, Det. Woodruff at 750-7614, or Crime Stoppers at 254-753-HELP.
UPDATE;
The suspect in the aggravated robbery that occurred on August 18th at 1624 W Waco Dr has been identified. Investigators have talked to the subject but no arrest at this time. Case is still under investigation
Waco DPS Trooper Honored for Jewelry Recovery
The Texas Public Safety Commission has honored Trooper James Hicks of Waco for conducting a traffic stop that led to finding over $1.5 million in jewelry. As a sign of thanks, Steve Konetzke of Roach, Howard, Smith & Barton, on behalf of Jewelers Mutual Insurance, presented a check for $5,000 in Trooper Hicks’ name to the DPS Memorial Fund.
On May 16, 2011, Trooper Hicks conducted a routine traffic stop on a vehicle. Trooper Hicks observed several indicators of criminal activity during his interview with both the driver and passenger. After receiving consent to search, Trooper Hicks found a black nylon bag full of assorted jewelry and Rolex watches. On May 20, 2011, after obtaining a list of items stolen from a McAllen jewelry store, it was determined that the jewelry and watches were authentic and valued at $1.5 million. The property, which had been taken during a daytime robbery in McAllen, was returned to the FBI and McAllen authorities.
Bomb Attack on Pakistan Hotel
Pakistan State TV
At least ten persons were killed and twenty injured in a bomb blast at a hotel in Nowshehra last evening.
According to police sources the bomb was planted in a bicycle.
At least ten persons were killed and twenty injured in a bomb blast at a hotel in Nowshehra last evening.
According to police sources the bomb was planted in a bicycle.
All sortie ships underway in preparation for Hurricane Irene
by Lt.j.g. Michael Sheehan
NORFOLK, Va. - All U.S. Navy ships in Hampton Roads, Va., ordered to get underway today have sortied in preparation for Hurricane Irene.Twenty-seven ships departed and will be clear of the storm's path by midday Saturday. These ships will rendezvous with 11 other ships which remain at sea.
Twenty-eight additional ships were taken to safe haven for various reasons, such as being in a particular maintenance status that does not allow them to get underway. Safe havens are predesignated piers that offer better protection against weather than a general pier.
Vice Adm. Daniel Holloway, commander, U.S. Second Fleet, said that the decision to sortie the ships from Hampton Roads is based on Hurricane Irene's current track that indicates the storm will produce at least 50 knots of wind and a five to seven foot storm surge, which meets the criteria for getting the fleet underway to avoid storm damage.
"We are being prudent mariners, getting our ships underway so that they can better weather Hurricane Irene" said Holloway. "This will be a significant storm, so not only do we need to keep our ships safe but also our families. With the forecasted destructive winds and tidal surge, we could see some significant damage here on land. Now is the time for our families to execute the plan they prepared for. Now is the time, before the storm hits."
A variety of information is available in support of family readiness during hurricane season including:
-Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS)
(http://go.usa.gov/kQ4 ) provides a standardized method for the Navy to account, manage, and monitor the recovery process for personnel and their families affected and/or scattered by a wide-spread catastrophic event.
-State of Virginia Emergency Management
(http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia ) has many resources for planning and preparing emergency kits, developing evacuation plans and addressing specific special needs for children, the elderly and others.
-Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Hurricane Evacuation Guide at http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/hurricane_defauLT.asp provides more detailed information for preparing for a hurricane, hurricane evacuation and public shelters in Virginia.
-Red Cross Hurricane Preparedness Guide at
http://www.preparehr.org/documents/RedCrossReadyHurricaneGuide2pg.pdf provides general overview of tips and guidelines for hurricane preparedness.
-Prepare Hampton Roads website at http://www.preparehr.org/ provides valuable tips for preparing for high winds, evacuation.
Gov. Perry: High Demand for Texas Short-Term Notes Due to State’s Fiscal Strength
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE RELEASE
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today credited the strength of Texas’ economy with high demand for the state’s sale of $9.8 billion in Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes (TRANs), which drew approximately $31.6 billion in bids, more than three times the amount Texas was offering.
“The high demand for Texas notes is a reflection of the financial community’s confidence in our responsible, conservative fiscal management,” Gov. Perry said. “Whether bidding for TRANs or by expanding or relocating their businesses to the Lone Star State, people know that Texas is a sound and smart investment.”
Texas earned the highest possible ratings from Wall Street in anticipation of this offering, receiving a rating of SP-1+ by Standard & Poor’s, MIG 1 by Moody’s Investors Service and F1+ by Fitch Inc. Texas’ net interest rate of .27 percent is down from last year’s rate of .34 percent, representing the state’s lowest net rate ever for these notes.
The short-term notes are sold every fiscal year to manage cash flow and to provide up-front payments to public schools. They are repaid within the fiscal year.
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today credited the strength of Texas’ economy with high demand for the state’s sale of $9.8 billion in Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes (TRANs), which drew approximately $31.6 billion in bids, more than three times the amount Texas was offering.
“The high demand for Texas notes is a reflection of the financial community’s confidence in our responsible, conservative fiscal management,” Gov. Perry said. “Whether bidding for TRANs or by expanding or relocating their businesses to the Lone Star State, people know that Texas is a sound and smart investment.”
Texas earned the highest possible ratings from Wall Street in anticipation of this offering, receiving a rating of SP-1+ by Standard & Poor’s, MIG 1 by Moody’s Investors Service and F1+ by Fitch Inc. Texas’ net interest rate of .27 percent is down from last year’s rate of .34 percent, representing the state’s lowest net rate ever for these notes.
The short-term notes are sold every fiscal year to manage cash flow and to provide up-front payments to public schools. They are repaid within the fiscal year.
Church Raises Alarm Over City's Push for More Control of Private Property
(PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE RELEASE)
Washington, D.C. - A California case being appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court raises nationwide concerns that cities are trying to seize unprecedented authority over private property, according to attorneys involved in the case.Pacific Justice Institute represents a church in San Leandro - across the bay from San Francisco - that was prevented from moving into a building it had purchased on the open market, because the city wanted a moneymaking enterprise to get the property.
The church filed suit under a federal law that prohibits cities from treating houses of worship worse than secular, for-profit uses in land use decisions. After the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the city this spring, it appealed the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
In a response filed this week, the church is urging the Supreme Court not to take the case, warning that the city is claiming unprecedented authority to control the use of private property.PJI Staff Attorney Matthew McReynolds, who wrote the church's brief, commented,
"This case has the potential to help - or harm - property owners across the country. In a nutshell, the city believes its wishes for use of a piece of property should trump the owners' rights in almost every case-even when fundamental First Amendment rights are involved. Because we believe the government rarely knows best how someone else should use their land, we are vigorously contesting this appeal."
Brad Dacus, the president of Pacific Justice Institute, commented,
"The First Amendment prohibits the government from using over-restrictive zoning laws to dictate the precise locations and membership sizes of churches. Now more than ever, as so many religious congregations are reaching out to those hit the hardest by budget cutbacks and economic turmoil, local governments should be encouraging-not pushing away-these helping hands."
Washington, D.C. - A California case being appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court raises nationwide concerns that cities are trying to seize unprecedented authority over private property, according to attorneys involved in the case.Pacific Justice Institute represents a church in San Leandro - across the bay from San Francisco - that was prevented from moving into a building it had purchased on the open market, because the city wanted a moneymaking enterprise to get the property.
The church filed suit under a federal law that prohibits cities from treating houses of worship worse than secular, for-profit uses in land use decisions. After the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the city this spring, it appealed the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
In a response filed this week, the church is urging the Supreme Court not to take the case, warning that the city is claiming unprecedented authority to control the use of private property.PJI Staff Attorney Matthew McReynolds, who wrote the church's brief, commented,
"This case has the potential to help - or harm - property owners across the country. In a nutshell, the city believes its wishes for use of a piece of property should trump the owners' rights in almost every case-even when fundamental First Amendment rights are involved. Because we believe the government rarely knows best how someone else should use their land, we are vigorously contesting this appeal."
Brad Dacus, the president of Pacific Justice Institute, commented,
"The First Amendment prohibits the government from using over-restrictive zoning laws to dictate the precise locations and membership sizes of churches. Now more than ever, as so many religious congregations are reaching out to those hit the hardest by budget cutbacks and economic turmoil, local governments should be encouraging-not pushing away-these helping hands."
Lorena, Centerville Receive $75000 Park Grants
AUSTIN -- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission today approved $5.6 million in competitive grants for city and county parks across the state. Commissioners chose 12 out of 52 eligible grant requests for outdoor recreation facilities funding. Funding for the Outdoor Recreation grants come from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the state Texas Recreation and Parks Account (TRPA).
Of those grants, the commission voted to award federal matching funds of $75,000 each to two area governmental entities for the acquisition and development of public recreation facilities.
The City of Lorena will use its grant to renovate and further develop 2.787 acre McBray Park located in the west central area of the city. Development plans include a playground, shuffleboard court, horseshoe pits, benches, pavilion expansion with picnic tables, nature trail, Xeriscape garden, concrete walkway with solar lighting, landscaping and signs.
The City of Centerville will use its grant to renovate and further develop 0.582 acre Joseph A. Sullivan Park located at Main and Polk Streets in the central area of the city. Development plans include a splash pad, playground renovation, trail, gardens, interpretive signs, flagpole, tree planting and program signs. Landscaping, lighting, bench, drinking fountain, and professional services will be provided at no cost to the project.
Of those grants, the commission voted to award federal matching funds of $75,000 each to two area governmental entities for the acquisition and development of public recreation facilities.
The City of Lorena will use its grant to renovate and further develop 2.787 acre McBray Park located in the west central area of the city. Development plans include a playground, shuffleboard court, horseshoe pits, benches, pavilion expansion with picnic tables, nature trail, Xeriscape garden, concrete walkway with solar lighting, landscaping and signs.
The City of Centerville will use its grant to renovate and further develop 0.582 acre Joseph A. Sullivan Park located at Main and Polk Streets in the central area of the city. Development plans include a splash pad, playground renovation, trail, gardens, interpretive signs, flagpole, tree planting and program signs. Landscaping, lighting, bench, drinking fountain, and professional services will be provided at no cost to the project.
Two Young Women Sentenced for Killeen Robberies
Two young women have been given lengthy prison sentences in connection with the robberies of a bank and a Subway restaurant in Killeen this past December. Jalyssa Shalaine Bradley was just 19 and Amber Denise Waters was just 23 at the time of the robberies. Thursday, in 264th District Court, both were given two-20-year sentences each for the robberies of the Subway and the First National Bank of Central Texas location on East Central Texas Expressway. In addition, Bradley was given another ten years on a probation revocation for an earlier offense. The sentences are to be served concurrently.
TSTC TRAFFIC PLANS FOR CONSTRUCTION AREA
I-35 – TSTC STARTS NEW SEMESTER (WACO/MCLENNAN CO.)
Several area agencies are working with the Texas Department of Transportation for the next couple of weeks to help head off potential traffic trouble near a local school.
Historically, at the beginning of fall semester, the amount of traffic significantly increases at northbound I-35 exit to Crest Drive. This is particularly true on the northbound side, where vehicles sometimes back up onto the highway mainlanes around 8 AM, waiting for the vehicles ahead to move through the traffic light. This year, the congestion could be even worse than usual, due to construction on the northbound access road near the Crest/I-35 intersection.
TxDOT, TSTC, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Lacy-Lakeview and Williams Brothers Construction are working together to carry out a multi-pronged plan to lessen potential congestion in the area when the students start class next Monday, August 29.
Traffic operations personnel from TxDOT will be increasing the time that the northbound traffic gets a green light at the intersection, to allow more vehicles to move through the intersection at one time and hopefully decrease the number of vehicles waiting to turn. Personnel will also be on hand monitoring the traffic flow and adjusting timing further if needed.
Additionally, Williams Brothers Construction will free up more space at the intersection by temporarily removing some of the barrier walls and drums, and keeping work crews in other areas. TSTC will be communicating with new and returning students ahead of time to inform them of alternate routes available for getting to the campus, particularly Meyers Lane, which allows drivers to connect to two different roads (Airbase Road and Airline Road), that lead directly onto the campus (see map below).
During the first week of classes and possibly longer, DPS will station a trooper on the northbound mainlane shoulder near the Craven Avenue overpass with lights flashing, to encourage drivers to slow down as they approach Crest. Lacy-Lakeview police officers will be monitoring conditions at the Craven intersection and the railroad crossing there, and will manually control traffic flow at the intersection if traffic begins to back up at the northbound I-35 exit to Craven.
Message boards placed along the highway mainlanes will warn drivers to expect stopped traffic ahead.
All exits and intersections will be open. However, for the first few days of classes, we encourage TSTC drivers to utilize one of the alternate routes to help avoid traffic backups and make their own access to the campus easier. Additionally, we encourage drivers not going to TSTC to utilize crossings other than Crest, and truck drivers to time any deliveries in the area for after 10 AM Monday through Friday, until the traffic begins to normalize, probably within a couple of weeks.
Several area agencies are working with the Texas Department of Transportation for the next couple of weeks to help head off potential traffic trouble near a local school.
Historically, at the beginning of fall semester, the amount of traffic significantly increases at northbound I-35 exit to Crest Drive. This is particularly true on the northbound side, where vehicles sometimes back up onto the highway mainlanes around 8 AM, waiting for the vehicles ahead to move through the traffic light. This year, the congestion could be even worse than usual, due to construction on the northbound access road near the Crest/I-35 intersection.
TxDOT, TSTC, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Lacy-Lakeview and Williams Brothers Construction are working together to carry out a multi-pronged plan to lessen potential congestion in the area when the students start class next Monday, August 29.
Traffic operations personnel from TxDOT will be increasing the time that the northbound traffic gets a green light at the intersection, to allow more vehicles to move through the intersection at one time and hopefully decrease the number of vehicles waiting to turn. Personnel will also be on hand monitoring the traffic flow and adjusting timing further if needed.
Additionally, Williams Brothers Construction will free up more space at the intersection by temporarily removing some of the barrier walls and drums, and keeping work crews in other areas. TSTC will be communicating with new and returning students ahead of time to inform them of alternate routes available for getting to the campus, particularly Meyers Lane, which allows drivers to connect to two different roads (Airbase Road and Airline Road), that lead directly onto the campus (see map below).
During the first week of classes and possibly longer, DPS will station a trooper on the northbound mainlane shoulder near the Craven Avenue overpass with lights flashing, to encourage drivers to slow down as they approach Crest. Lacy-Lakeview police officers will be monitoring conditions at the Craven intersection and the railroad crossing there, and will manually control traffic flow at the intersection if traffic begins to back up at the northbound I-35 exit to Craven.
Message boards placed along the highway mainlanes will warn drivers to expect stopped traffic ahead.
All exits and intersections will be open. However, for the first few days of classes, we encourage TSTC drivers to utilize one of the alternate routes to help avoid traffic backups and make their own access to the campus easier. Additionally, we encourage drivers not going to TSTC to utilize crossings other than Crest, and truck drivers to time any deliveries in the area for after 10 AM Monday through Friday, until the traffic begins to normalize, probably within a couple of weeks.
Arrest in Year old Waco Murder Case
WACO PD RELEASE-SGT PATRICK SWANTON
On August 25th, 2011, Special Crimes Detectives made an arrest in the investigation of the murder of Emuel “Man-Man” Bowers, which occurred on April 8, 2010.
Steven Jaye Peace, Jr., B/M, 6-20-1991 was arrested at the Special Crimes Unit office at approximately 4:00pm. He has been transferred to McLennan County Jail.
Steven Jaye Peace, Jr., B/M, 6-20-1991 was arrested at the Special Crimes Unit office at approximately 4:00pm. He has been transferred to McLennan County Jail.
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