WHARTON – A search is underway for an inmate who escaped Wharton police custody in handcuffs Wednesday night, according to the Wharton Police Department.
Waynard Austin was arrested around 7:42 p.m. for seven felony warrants.
Shortly after his arrest, police said Austin escaped in handcuffs.
After an exhaustive search of the area, Austin remains on the run. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie, blue jeans and white shoes.
If you see him, or know his whereabouts, contact 911 or tip anonymously via www.p3tips.com.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
HOUSTON – A bus ticket shows the family of four that vanished during their move from Louisiana to Houston might be in a different country. KPRC 2 Reporter Corley Peel got a copy of the bus ticket and she is taking a closer look.
But the bus ticket shows they left Houston and made their way to McAllen, Texas and had a final stop in Monterrey, Mexico.
Missing Family’s bus ticket (click2houston.com)
It’s unclear if the family is in Mexico. But the family tells Peel, they had no idea they were headed in that direction. Peel reached out to the police in New Orleans, asking if they’ve been in contact with authorities in Mexico. But the police in New Orleans cannot comment. They’re still working to find the missing family.
If you have any information on the family, please call police.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Karl Smith, 60, of North Ft. Meyers, Florida, was sentenced to 15 years in state prison for first-degree rape. Smith was convicted of raping a 14-year-old child and pled guilty to the charge in January.
Smith was also sentenced to 20 years of post-release supervision. He will be required to register as a sex offender. Assistant District Attorney Antonia Edwards prosecuted the case.
SUGAR LAND, Texas – Authorities say a Sugar Land city worker was killed in a major crash following a police chase on Highway 90A on Wednesday.
The crash happened on the stretch between Industrial and Eldridge.
Sugar Land city officials told KPRC 2 they have identified the victim as 56-year-old Joseph Aponte. Aponte has been employed with the public works department since last January.
JUST IN: 56-year-old Joseph Aponte, a City of Sugar Land employee, is the victim in today’s pursuit that started in Missouri City and ended with a fatal crash in Sugar Land. He had been employed with the public works department since last January. @KPRC2pic.twitter.com/oY06EtXuxw
Officers in the area of Texas Parkway and Fifth Street in Missouri City received a call in regards to a residential burglary at 10:08 a.m. The burglary was confirmed in the 1100 block of Crestmont Place Loop.
Police said when officers located two of the suspected vehicles, they started to follow them.
A traffic stop was initiated on one of the suspect vehicles in the area of Highway 90 in Stafford but the suspect fled. Officers chased the vehicle on Highway 90 into the city of Sugar Land.
A video shared with KPRC 2 appeared to show the suspects and the officer weaving in and out of traffic lanes.
At around 10:30 a.m., at the intersection of Highway 90 and Gillingham Lane, police said the suspect vehicle ran a red light and struck another vehicle in the intersection.
The SUV flipped upside down in the opposite lanes, and the truck, barely standing upright.
“As you can imagine, this is one of the worst days imaginable for us,” said Doug Adolph with the City of Sugar Land.
NEW AT 10: Videos shared with @KPRC2 shows a Missouri City police officer chasing 3 burglary suspects before they ran a red light and crashed, killing a City of Sugar Land employee. Details in minutes on KPRC 2 at 10. 🎥: kev_tinez pic.twitter.com/17nlQ1CB7p
The innocent driver, later identified as Aponte, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Surveillance video shared by a neighbor shows what appeared to be a Toyota Highlander speeding away from the house with the trunk still open as a bag falls into the street.
“Officers were trying to do their job, you know, apprehending two felony criminal suspects and the loss of life is certainly tragic,” said Lt. Jeff York with the Missouri City Police Department.
Missouri City PD are now reviewing the pursuit, as they do with all pursuits. But it’s too early if Aponte’s death would result in any policy changes.
The driver and two passengers inside the suspect vehicle were all taken to hospitals for injuries sustained in the crash, police said.
The second suspect vehicle was stopped in Houston and the driver was taken into custody.
The suspects could possibly face murder charges.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
Nestled against the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean, Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes. From the lush greenery of its gardens to the sun-kissed beaches, the beauty of this tropical paradise is unmatched.
So whether contemplating renting a home in Honolulu, purchasing a property, or you’re already a local, be sure to keep your camera within arms reach, as there’s no shortage of stunning views in the area. Here’s Redfin’s list of some of the most beautiful places in Honolulu.
1. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, is an iconic symbol of Honolulu’s coastal charm. Framed by swaying palm trees and the majestic Diamond Head crater in the background, this world-renowned beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and water activities. Whether you’re looking forward to a relaxing day in the sun or hitting the waves, Waikiki Beach provides a picturesque setting.
2. Diamond Head State Monument
Embark on an adventure to the summit of Diamond Head, an extinct volcanic crater offering panoramic views of Honolulu and the vast Pacific Ocean. The moderately challenging hike leads you through tunnels and up staircases, providing an immersive experience of Hawaii’s volcanic history. The reward? Unforgettable vistas that showcase the city’s dynamic beauty.
photo courtesy of Masha Sakhno Photo
3. Laie Point
Nestled on Oahu’s northeastern shore, Laie Point is a mesmerizing coastal location that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. As you stand on the rocky outcrop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of turquoise waters and lush greenery. The crashing waves and the cool ocean breeze create a serene atmosphere, making Laie Point an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation.
“A must-see if you are visiting the island of Oahu in Hawaii is Laie Point in the North Shore,” says local photographer Masha Sakhno. “It has breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Ko’olau mountains, and the iconic volcanic rock with a hole in the middle (featured in many Hollywood films). This area is truly spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset.”
4. Manoa Falls Trail
Embark on a magical journey through the rainforest to reach Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall nestled in the heart of the Manoa Valley. The trail winds through lush greenery, offering a refreshing escape into nature. As the sound of cascading water grows louder, the reward at the trail’s end is the sight of this enchanting waterfall, creating a serene and memorable experience.
5. Lyon Arboretum
For a serene escape into nature, venture to Lyon Arboretum in the picturesque Manoa Valley. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of this botanical garden, where a diverse collection of tropical plants and exotic trees flourishes. The tranquil trails wind through enchanting landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and a feast for the senses.
photo courtesy of Chris Boulware Photography
6. Waialae Beach Park
Honolulu wedding photographer Chris Boulware recommends checking out Waialae Beach Park for its scenic beauty.
“Waialae Beach Park is a hidden gem nestled in Kahala and encapsulates the diverse beauty of Honolulu,” he says. “Its unique allure of palm trees and serene waterfront creates a mesmerizing setting for breathtaking wedding, engagement and family photography. Providing the perfect backdrop for locals and visitors looking to capture their keepsake, surrounded by the essence of Hawaii.”
7. Ala Moana Beach Park
Adjacent to Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach Park is a vast urban oasis offering a peaceful retreat from city life. With a sandy beach, shady picnic areas, and walking paths, it’s a haven for residents seeking a serene escape. Imagine homes in Honolulu with easy access to Ala Moana, providing the perfect balance between the vibrant energy of the city and the tranquility of the coastline.
photo courtesy of Kenji Croman Photography
8. The Ko’olau Range
The Ko’olau Range features lush, emerald-green mountains that stretch across the eastern side of Oahu.. Dotted with cascading waterfalls and framed by lush tropical vegetation, the Ko’olau Range provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Hiking trails weave through its slopes, inviting adventure enthusiasts to explore its hidden gems and witness panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
“I really believe Hawaii has some of the most unique types of mountains in the world,” says local photographer Kenji Croman. “Millions of years of rain and erosion created the Koolau’s famous unique ridges. This is surely one of my favorite places in Hawaii.”
9. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Dive into the underwater wonderland of Hanauma Bay, a marine sanctuary nestled within a volcanic crater. Snorkel through vibrant coral reefs, where a kaleidoscope of fish and sea turtles dance beneath the crystal-clear waters. The bay’s crescent shape and diverse marine life make it a snorkeler’s paradise, inviting you to explore the depths of Hawaii’s captivating ocean life.
10. Koko Crater Botanical Garden
Discover a unique blend of desert flora at the Koko Crater Botanical Garden, nestled within the Koko Crater on the eastern side of Honolulu. This garden showcases a stunning collection of cacti and succulents against the backdrop of volcanic terrain. Living near Koko Crater allows residents to experience the unexpected beauty of a desert oasis in the midst of a tropical paradise.
TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — At the Eddy Lane Pump station, Mayor Carmella Mantello announced that the first phase of replacing a severely corroded section of Troy’s water main line has been completed. Crews installed a new water main valve, which will allow the city to continue with the larger project of replacing a 30-inch water main pipe at the location. The pipe’s condition was so bad it was described as a “ticking time bomb”.
“Employees actually said that if you took just a regular hammer and banged it against this pipe, it would rupture,” said Mayor Mantello.
On January 5th the mayor declared a public emergency after she and the Department of Public Utilities were alerted to the leaking of pipes, valves, and pumps at the station just two days earlier. The leakage had been going on for about a year and a half, causing severe corrosion. The mayor’s office says the current pipe’s failure would have been catastrophic. It would have stopped the flow of H20 to over 100,000 people in not just Troy but surrounding areas like Lansingburgh and North Central.
“If it did occur, you’re going to wipe our Troy Housing Authority, the complex below us affordable housing,” said the Mayor.
“This 30-inch line is fed directly by gravity from the plant so that’s a substantial amount of water, and it certainly would take out a good portion of this plant and a lot of the structures down below” added city engineer Russ Reeves.
There was a shiny blue coat of paint on the pipes at the station. It’s not decorative, it serves a preventative purpose.
“All the pipes above here I’ve just been painted with direct to metal marine base paint to reduce the opportunity for further corrosion” added Reeves.
This is just a small step, in a larger, more complicated process. The second phase of this project is replacing the current 500-horsepower water main pump with one more powerful 700-horsepower pump. It’s a process that will have to be completed in 12 hours to maintain ideal water pressure.
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Officials are urging homeowners to test for radon, a natural radioactive gas that can lead to health risks if left unchecked. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, studies have shown that radon is a carcinogen that can lead to lung cancer.
“Radon is known as a silent killer because you can’t see, taste, or smell it in the home, but the good news is there’s an easy way to test for it,”State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “Testing for radon should be done in the home, as well as in businesses, schools, and other buildings, so when radon is detected steps can be taken to mitigate exposure to this serious health risk.”
Data from the EPA indicates that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among non-smokers in America and is responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths every year. At least 2,900 of the deaths occurred among non-smokers.
Radon gas is naturally released from soil and rock and can enter buildings through cracks in their foundations and walls. Officials recommend testing for radon levels at least once every five years. If any remodeling or weatherizing is done or radon mitigation has been performed, re-testing is also necessary to ensure that the radon levels are under control.
New York homeowners can request a free radon test kit while supplies last. If elevated levels are found, a certified mitigation contractor is available to install a radon reduction system that can reduce levels up to 99%.
The suspect, who was not identified by police, is facing charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession with the intent to distribute illegal narcotics, and trafficking narcotics.
Newnan City Council approved a variance that would allow Thompson’s Pharmacy to sell CBD products, despite being within 1,000 feet of a school.
Under state law O.C.G.A 16-12-15 (a), “low THC oil or product dispensaries must be a minimum distance of 1,000 feet away from any ‘covered entity,’ which is defined as a school (public or private) or a religious place of worship.”
Thompson’s Pharmacy is currently 348 feet from Jefferson Street Elementary School and approximately 60 feet from Palmetto Foundation Academy. So Thompson’s Pharmacy requested a variance to allow the store to sell CBD products.
Trey Thompson of Thompson’s Pharmacy spoke to the council regarding this issue.
“If we could receive this variance it would give us the opportunity to bring other treatment options to our patients,” Thompson said. “These treatment options have multiple uses and are safer in regards to addiction, compared to opioids that we frequently dispense.”
The council members unanimously approved the variance.
The city has identified 17 pharmacies that operate within the city limits of Newnan. Of those 17, 10 ten of those pharmacy locations are within 1,000 feet of a school or church. That means 57 percent of existing pharmacies would need to see a variance, according to information provided by the city
Advocates and critics of the marijuana industry offered contrasting assessments of the drug 10 years after its legalization, with the former calling its decade-long existence a successful model for the rest of America, while the latter insist it has harmed Coloradans.
Voters legalized marijuana use in 2012. Today, the industry has more than 2,500 active cannabis business licenses, including 912 retail establishment licenses. In addition, some 36,000 active occupational licenses have been issued to workers in the industry.
“Colorado’s launch of a regulated adult-use cannabis market was a major inflection point in our nation’s relationship with marijuana. It set a compelling example not only for other states, but also for countries around the globe,” said Mason Tvert, who co-directed the legalization campaign.
Luke Niforatos of Smart Approaches to Marijuana characterized the drug’s legalization as a disaster for the state.
“We have seen an addiction-for-profit industry produce and promote stronger, more addictive drugs in order to maximize their bottom line,” he said. “From increases in traffic fatalities due to impaired drivers to more emergency department visits, Coloradans are being harmed by these drugs. Simply, the legalization of marijuana has not made Colorado a better state to live and raise a family in.”
From the industry’s viewpoint, the legalization has translated to hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue that is directly benefitting governments…
Whether you’re considering buying a home in Martinsburg, Harper’s Ferry, or anywhere else in the Mountain State, your homebuying process isn’t complete without a West Virginia home inspection. Many homes have issues that are easily overlooked and can be costly down the road. This Redfin guide will explain why it’s so important to get a home inspection before you finalize your purchase.
Why should you get a home inspection in West Virginia?
Getting a home inspection in West Virginia is a key step for both buyers and sellers. A thorough inspection provides valuable insights into a house’s condition, helping buyers make informed decisions and sellers address issues before listing. Given West Virginia’s diverse landscapes and climates, ranging from wooded areas to more urban settings, a home inspection ensures that specific regional factors are adequately addressed. Ultimately, a home inspection is a proactive measure to prevent unexpected surprises and fosters transparency in real estate transactions.
Are there any specialized inspections that West Virginia buyers should consider?
Home inspections are not legally mandated in West Virginia, but they are highly recommended in real estate transactions. While the state doesn’t require inspections, that doesn’t take away from their importance for both buyers and sellers. The absence of a legal requirement places the responsibility on individuals involved in a transaction to recognize the benefits of a home inspection. Home inspections can prevent future issues, benefiting all parties involved in the homebuying process.
How much is a home inspection in West Virginia?
Home inspection costs in West Virginia can vary based on factors such as the property’s size, location, and additional services required. On average, a standard home inspection in the state may range from $300 to $600. However, specialized inspections, such as those discussed earlier, may incur additional costs. While the expense may seem significant, homebuyers should also consider the potential savings and peace of mind that come with a home inspection.
Can you sell a house in West Virginia without an inspection?
In West Virginia, there is no legal requirement mandating a home inspection for selling a house. Sellers can list their properties without getting a pre-sale inspection. However, it’s important to note that many buyers in the state often request an inspection as part of the negotiation process. Opting for a pre-sale inspection can be advantageous for sellers, as it allows them to address potential issues early, potentially increasing the property’s market value and expediting the sales process.
A final note on home inspections in West Virginia
While West Virginia does not enforce mandatory home inspections, they are highly recommended for anyone involved in a real estate transaction. Buyers benefit from a comprehensive understanding of a property’s condition, while sellers can enhance their property’s market appeal by addressing potential issues in advance. The relatively modest cost of a home inspection is a worthwhile investment, providing a valuable layer of protection and transparency.
Last week, I saw the sad news that one of my favorite shops was closing its doors after 22 years of business. Lulu’s Cuts and Toys, which sold kids’ toys and haircuts, was a mainstay in the Park Slope neighorhood of Brooklyn. I don’t have any children of my own, but Lulu’s was always go-to destination for my nieces’ and nephew’s birthdays and last-minute baby shower foraging. The place was stuffed with soft, surprising things — a cozy haven for unique and nostalgic discoveries: cute vegetable pun onesies, the classic whoopie cushion, stretchy rubber rainbow-colored ramen noodles, assorted Harry Potter wizard wands, etc.
The business announced its closure with a note taped to the window (and its digital counterpart, a post on Instagram), signed by the owner Brigitte Prat, and her daughter Lulu, the store’s namesake. It read, in part:
As a single mother and first-generation American, this community is not only where I grew my business’s roots, it is where I raised my daughter. Given the continued growth of big-box online shopping (Amazon, etc.), it is sadly no longer viable to keep our small business thriving with a storefront.
We hope this serves as a reminder to support small businesses in the community. Their products may be $1 or $2 more than Amazon (but often, they are cheaper!), and in exchange, you get personalized customer service, more local jobs, more income circulating within the community (and out of multi-billionaires’ hands), a shopping experience that is better for the environment and a neighborhood that feels like a neighborhood and not a corporate strip mall.
DeKALB – NuEra Cannabis, the second of two marijuana dispensaries slated for DeKalb, is entering a new era in its hopes of setting up shop in town in early 2024.
On Monday, project leaders joined city staff for a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of work that will commence on the building at 818 W. Lincoln Highway. DeKalb City Manager Bill Nicklas and city planner Dan Olson were present.
The 4,834 square-feet space, now vacant, used to be home to the former Book World in The Junction Shopping Center.
Plans for the soon-to-be marijuana dispensary have been a long time in the making, officials said.
“We are absolutely delighted,” NuEra Cannabis chief operating officer Laura Jaramillo Bernal said. “We really thought that we would’ve been up and running years ago, but the cannabis licensing process has been much slower than everybody expected. Also, the COVID-19 pandemic slowed everything a lot more than everyone expected. So, it’s taken everything a little while, but both the city and our landlord have been incredibly supportive and incredibly patient. We are so excited to finally be breaking ground today and hopefully opening up our doors to the public in quarter one next year.”
NuEra Cannabis already has other dispensaries in Illinois, including in Aurora, East Peoria, Chicago Champaign, Urbana and Pekin, according to its website.
“People are getting products that might have heavy metals, solvents and pesticides that aren’t part of what … we like…
When officers arrived, they found a 20-year-old man who had been shot in the leg. He was taken to the hospital to receive treatment.
The identity of the victim has not been released.
According to the investigation, the victim was leaving his apartment building when another man walked up to him and asked if he had any marijuana for sale.
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The report said the victim told the man that he did not sell marijuana and turned to leave.
At that time, authorities said the suspect pulled out a firearm and demanded that the victim give him money.
The victim said that a struggle began, and he was shot.
The city’s power utility has been undergoing a revenue collection drive throughout the metro, urging residents to pay for the services they consume to avoid being cut off from the electricity supply.
City Power officials on 5 October 2023 disconnected a store in Johannesburg that was illegally connected to the power grid. Picture: @CityPowerJhb
JOHANNESBURG – Johannesburg City Power urged residents in the metro to pay for the services they consumed to avoid drastic measures, such as cutting off operations by the city.
Joburg MMC for Safety Mgcini Mtshwaku brought this to light, saying Emergency Management Services (EMS) managed to contain the blaze timely.
Screenshot of a fire at a building on the corner of Delvers Street and Cornelius Street in Marshalltown, Joburg CBD. Picture: Screenshot
JOHANNESBURG – Another building in Marshalltown, in the Johannesburg CBD, at the corner of Delvers Street and Cornelius Street caught fire on Friday.
This follows one of the shacks erected inside the building catching fire, with one person suffering smoke inhalation but no fatalities have been reported.
Joburg Safety MMC , Mgcini Mtshwaku said Emergency Management Services (EMS) managed to contain the blaze timely.
“We are actually happy with the EMS that has responded on time,” he said, adding that there will be an “investigation in terms of what really happened”.
Mtshwaku said the fire did not catch city officials off-guard because they’re on “high alert”.
| Another building in Marshalltown, in the Johannesburg CBD, at the corner of Delvers Street and Cornelius Street caught fire on Friday. This follows one of the shacks erected inside the building catching fire, with one person suffering smoke inhalation. No fatalities were reported.
On Friday, a memorial service was held in Johannesburg to honour the lives of the 77 people, which included 12 children, who died in the fatal fire that raged through a five-storey building in Marshalltown last week.
Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg held a memorial service for the 77 people who died in the raging blaze that engulfed a dilapidated building on Albert Street on 31 August 2023. Picture: Veronica Makhoali/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG – The father of a three-year-old toddler who survived the Marshalltown fire said he was heartbroken for the families who lost their children in the blaze.
A memorial service was held at the Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg on Friday to honour the 77 lives lost in the Albert Street blaze.
During the service, survivors told harrowing stories of how they escaped the flames, including the miraculous rescue of three-year-old Islam Chikwana.
Twelve children were among the 77 people who died in the raging fire on 31 August.
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Speaking to Eyewitness News with his three-year-old son in his arms, Mohammed Chikwana said when he managed to escape the blaze, he realised that his wife only had their five-month-old, and not their three-year-old.
He then went to the firefighters, insisting they go back in to try…
