Tag: News

Colorado Parks and Wildlife says bears attacked teen inside condo and woman at campground

Posted on by Leave a comment
Muddy forest trail leading toward snow-dusted mountain peaks

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is investigating two bear attacks over the weekend that left a woman and a teen injured. The first incident happened at the Rio Grande National Forest Park Creek Campground on Friday. Around 5:30 a.m., a bear reportedly bit a woman on her arm through the side of her tent. Emergency services treated her for a puncture wound before she was taken to Rio Grande Hospital for follow-up treatment. The woman told officials that she heard something hit the tent before she was bitten. Although she couldn’t see what attacked her, she said that the animal was large and she heard a growl.

CPW officers found holes in the tent, along with scratches and a paw print in the mud. The campground was already scheduled to close for the season on Sept. 14. However, because of the attack, the park decided to close the campground early. Officers think the bite was an act of surprise, not aggression, and they don’t believe there’s a potential for further threats. Two days later, a 17-year-old from Durango was attacked inside her bedroom at a condo on Escalante Drive. She told CPW that the black bear ripped off the window screen and entered the room through a window that was cracked open.

She woke up and hid under the covers as the bear moved into the room and walked to her bedside. When the bear began sniffing her head under the blankets, she says she made a noise, and the bear swiped her on the stomach. When she screamed and sat up, the bear backed away and went out through the window. However, it immediately came back in. The girl says that she stood up and began screaming, and the bear left for good. Wildlife managers say the blankets protected her, and she treated the three scratches on her stomach herself.

“Based on what we know happened in this encounter, the woman is very lucky she had multiple blankets covering her when the bear swiped her,” said District Wildlife Manager Luke Clancy. CPW is currently looking for the bear, which later broke into another home on Monday. They say the bear poses a health and safety risk, and they intend to catch and remove it. This is the 10th confirmed bear attack this season. Bears are entering hyperphagia, where they bulk up for winter, and the lack of their usual food sources is pushing them into neighborhoods in search of food. 

CPW asked residents to lock their garages, doors and windows and secure anything outside that might attract a bear. That includes bird feeders and any type of food.

Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife says bears attacked teen inside condo and woman at campground – CBS Colorado

Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”
John 11:40

Hunted for Following Jesus

In some communities, Muslims who leave Islam to follow Christ face rejection, threats, violence, and even death because of their faith. For Muslim-background believers, choosing to follow Jesus can…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Bear calls rise around Lake Tahoe as California, Nevada take different approaches

Posted on by Leave a comment
Black bear walking through a pine forest near cabins and a mountain lake

Bear-related calls are on the rise around the Lake Tahoe region, with South Lake Tahoe police reporting 174 calls so far this year, compared with 97 during the same period last year. But because Lake Tahoe spans California and Nevada, how officials respond to bears can look very different depending on which side of the lake you’re on. In Nevada, wildlife officials have a unique tool at their disposal: a four-legged bear chaser named Badger. Badger is a Karelian Bear Dog trained to work alongside Nevada Department of Wildlife biologists. His job is to haze bears that have become too comfortable around people.

The goal isn’t to hurt the bear. Instead, the dogs create a negative association with people and encourage the bear to retreat back into the wild. “Using the dogs versus other tools makes a difference in the amount of time that they stay away from people, how quick they are to retreat from people when they’re encountered again,” said Becca Carniello, a Nevada Department of Wildlife game biologist. Nevada has used Karelian Bear Dogs since 2001, and officials say the dogs can help change how a bear responds the next time it encounters people. California uses a different toolbox. California Department of Fish and Wildlife spokesperson Cort Klopping says officers can use a range of hazing techniques, including yelling, making themselves appear larger, using air horns and other loud noisemakers.

In some cases, wildlife officials also use bean-bag guns or paintball guns. With bear activity increasing around Tahoe, that raises the question: Why not add a dog like Badger to California’s toolbox? Klopping says California has considered the approach but doesn’t see enough added benefit to justify it. “It’s something that has been successful for a lot of different departments in the past. It doesn’t seem like it’s really worth it necessarily for us. It doesn’t give us any more effectiveness than the other hazing techniques that we use to move the bears along,” Klopping said. The states may use different tools, but wildlife officials on both sides agree that hazing is only a temporary solution. “Anything we do with the bear, hazing the bear, it’s only a temporary behavior change.

The permanent solution has to come from people securing their trash,” Carniello said. That puts human behavior at the center of the issue. Unsecured garbage cans, pet food left outside and even a dirty barbecue grill can attract bears — and once a bear learns that people mean an easy meal, it can become increasingly comfortable coming back. “The attractants, you know, that goes for unsecured garbage cans, pet food left outside, even something as simple as not cleaning your grill after you use it,” Klopping said.

So while Nevada’s Badger can chase a bear away and people can haze one when it gets too close, wildlife officials say the best defense is preventing bears from finding a reason to stick around in the first place. For now, the message from wildlife officials remains the same: Different states may have different tools, but keeping bears wild starts with keeping human food and trash out of reach.

Source: Bear calls rise around Lake Tahoe as California, Nevada take different approaches – CBS Sacramento

For the word of the LORD is right, And all His work is done in truth.
Psalm 33:4

Plague in Russia?

Russian authorities have sought to allay global worries over the death of a young woman who worked at a Siberian anti-plague laboratory. But moves to isolate her…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

3 bear cubs break into man’s San Bernardino County mountain cabin

Posted on by Leave a comment
Three black bear cubs standing at an open rustic cabin door

A man had a close encounter with a trio of bears that broke into his cabin in the San Bernardino County mountains. After hearing his little, old hard-of-hearing dogs barking, Thomas Vander Wende woke up and went outside his cabin at Green Valley Lake. That’s when he came face-to-face with a bear cub crawling down a tree in front of his cabin at Green Valley Lake and making wild, throaty moans.   “I saw a silhouette of a bear just above my head,” he said.

“I was bare butt too. So, I didn’t want to hang around and talk to this bear.” Wende ran back inside his home, only to realize that at least two bears had already broken into his home. “We catch the little culprits, the bandits, trying to shimmy down the tree, trying to get away from their crime,” Wende said.  He said his teenage son started screaming that a bear had crawled through his second-floor window. They raided Wende’s loft and were sniffing around their guinea pig enclosure.  Luckily, the cubs were only after the dry food and did not hurt the guinea pigs.  “They did a bear home invasion,” Wende said. “In our home, where we sleep.”

The encounter got Wende’s adrenaline going, but once he lit the bear burglars up with a flashlight, they slowly ambled out of the home while he heard a strange sound in the distance.  Wende believes it was the bear’s mother making some distress calls or scolding them for their mischievous behavior.  “They’re teens. She’s probably having a hard time with them,” he said.  Wende said he’s glad the unusual encounter ended in the best possible way, knowing the potential dangers if the cubs became trapped inside and their mother bear came looking for them.  “They look like they’re in the ‘I’m getting in trouble stage,” Wende said. “Mom’s probably having a hard time keeping track of them.”

Source: 3 bear cubs break into man’s San Bernardino County mountain cabin – CBS Los Angeles

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Luke 19:10

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Climber rescued at California’s Mount Shasta after crawling to shelter overnight

Posted on by Leave a comment

A Mount Shasta climber was airlifted to a hospital after sliding about 500 feet down the mountain, injuring himself and then crawling through the night to reach shelter. The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office said the San Jose man reached the summit around 7:30 p.m. Sept. 10 while climbing the Avalanche Gulch route. His cellphone died soon afterward, and friends reported him missing the next day when they couldn’t reach him. Around 2 p.m., search crews including Mount Shasta climbing rangers, sheriff’s search-and-rescue volunteers and a California Highway Patrol helicopter began looking for him.

Authorities said the climber tried to slide down a snowy or icy slope during his descent but lost control and went about 500 feet down the mountain. Shasta-Trinity National Forest He suffered several significant cuts and injuries to his feet. The swelling became so painful that he took off his boots and kept making his way down Avalanche Gulch, crawling through the night, according to the sheriff’s office. Around 4 p.m. Sept. 11, another hiker found the injured climber inside the Horse Camp Cabin and alerted climbing rangers. Rescuers checked his injuries before a helicopter flew him from Horse Camp to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials did not release details about the man’s current condition.

The sheriff’s office used the rescue to remind climbers to tell someone their route and expected return time, carry backup navigation tools and leave enough daylight for the descent. Mount Shasta climbers are generally advised to turn around by noon even if they haven’t reached the summit.

Source: Climber rescued at California’s Mount Shasta after crawling to shelter overnight – CBS San Francisco

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
1 Corinthians 13:2

2 Timothy 3:12 

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted Paul was reminding Timothy that following Christ does not guarantee an easy life. When…

Keep reading

John 15:18–20

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its…

Keep reading

Galatians 1:6-10

“When truth becomes negotiable, faith becomes vulnerable so know the Gospel, stand on God’s Word, and seek His approval above the world’s applause.” “I am astonished that…

Keep reading

Isaiah 45:2

“I will go before you and level the exalted places, I will break in pieces the doors of bronze and cut through the bars of iron, This…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

More evacuations lifted as containment grows on Lucas Fire in Northern California

Posted on by Leave a comment
Firefighters walk a hillside toward a wildfire above a rural community

A growing number of residents in two Northern California counties have been allowed to return home as firefighters increased containment on the Lucas Fire burning near the Mendocino National Forest. As of Tuesday afternoon, the fire burned 4,128 acres and is 35% contained, according to Cal Fire. The fire started Thursday morning near the Lake County – Mendocino County line southeast of Potter Valley. “Overnight, the fire remained within established control lines and crews continued to work on strengthening those,” officials said in a statement.

“Some evacuation orders have been lifted and traffic control points have been reduced. Residents and visitors should continue to follow remaining evacuation orders and local traffic-control directions.” On Monday afternoon, authorities downgraded evacuation orders to evacuation warnings in several zones but noted that returning residents should stay prepared to evacuate again if conditions change.

“Stronger northwest winds are expected later in the afternoon, which could increase fire activity in areas that continue to hold heat,” officials said Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the evacuation status in 10 other zones has been cleared. As of Tuesday morning, evacuations are in effect for the following zones:

Lake County

  • MNF-E018
  • UPP-E023-B

Evacuation warnings are in effect for these zones:

Lake County

  • MNF-E016
  • MNF-E019
  • UPP-E023-A
  • UPP-E025
  • UPP-E027
  • UPP-E030

Mendocino County

  • MEN-2POT08-B

On Tuesday morning, the U.S. Forest Service has updated an emergency closure in the Upper Lake Ranger District of the Mendocino National Forest. While the Middle Creek, Penny Pines and Deer Valley campgrounds have reopened, roads and trails in the Hunter Point and Middle Creek area remain closed. No injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: More evacuations lifted as containment grows on Lucas Fire in Northern California – CBS San Francisco

We love Him because He first loved us.
1 John 4:19

Proverbs 21:23

Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble. This verse emphasizes that people who carefully watch what they say will protect themselves from serious trouble. “Guarding…

Keep reading

Slow to Speak: The Secret to Wise Reactions

Talk less, listen more, because wisdom speaks after it understands, not before. If you want stronger relationships and real influence, master this: control your tongue, calm your anger, and lead…

Keep reading

Psalm 5:8

Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies; make your way straight before me. In the verse David is praying in the morning while people who hate…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

3 dead after NBC Los Angeles news helicopter crashes near site of deadly bus crash in Chatsworth

Posted on by Leave a comment
Replace Sydney Australia with Los Angeles

Three people were killed when an NBC Los Angeles helicopter crashed in the San Fernando Valley on Tuesday night near the scene of a deadly Metro bus crash in Chatsworth.  The crash happened just before 7 p.m. between two commercial buildings at a storage facility in the 9100 block of N. Mason Avenue, according to Los Angeles firefighters. The aircraft appeared to have landed on top of two shipping containers and several vehicles that were parked in the area.

Circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, but aerial footage showed Los Angeles firefighters working to fight the flames from a large fire that broke out after the crash and spread to the nearby vehicles.  Firefighters and Los Angeles police erected a canopy over one body after the fire was extinguished.  “We do have one confirmed patient that seemed to be outside of the helicopter when it crashed,” said LAFD Captain Branden Silverman. “That person was declared deceased on scene. … At this point, we have not confirmed how many victims, or how many people, were inside the helicopter.” LAFD officials later said that two other people were declared dead at the spot of the crash. Two other victims were taken to a local hospital in unknown condition, LAFD Captain Rico Gross said during a news conference late Tuesday night. The nature of their injuries was not immediately noted.

“The helicopter itself, it’s pretty well destroyed, so we are going to have to go through the rubble and see how many victims there were on board, as well as identify the helicopter,” Silverman said. Just before 9 p.m., NBC LA confirmed that the helicopter belonged to their station.  “We are deeply saddened to share that a helicopter providing aerial news coverage for NBC4 and Telemundo 52 was involved in a fatal accident in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening,” said a statement from NBC LA and Telemundo 52. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who lost their lives.”

NBC LA identified the two victims on board the helicopter as aerial news reporter Eliana Moreno and pilot George Marciniw.  Both the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board were contacted to assist with the investigation, firefighters said. Los Angeles police are also investigating the crash.

Mayor Bass and Gov. Newsom speak on tragic day

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and other city leaders spoke during the news conference.  “This is a very, very tragic day in Los Angeles,” Bass said while speaking during a news conference. “We lost five Angelenos today, and my hearts certainly go out to the families and friends to all of those that we lost. … This is a heartbreaking night for our city, and my thoughts and prayers are with first and foremost with the families and loved ones that we lost today.” 

Supervisor Lindsey Horvath called on Angelenos to support one another during such difficult times.  “Tonight is a time to care for the people who are hurting, to support our first responders and to stand together as a community,” Horvath said. “Chatsworth has experienced an incredibly difficult day. To everyone grieving, recovering or processing what they experienced today, we are here for you and we stand with you.” California Gov. Gavin Newsom also shared a message on Facebook late Tuesday.  “Our hearts are with the victims and families of tonight’s devastating Metro bus and helicopter crashes in Chatsworth, and with the entire NBC4 family.

Thank you to the first responders working tirelessly tonight,” Newsom’s post said. CBS LA anchors and reporters also spoke on the tragedy impacting the tight-knit news community in Los Angeles after the helicopter’s affiliation was confirmed.  “It was a double tragedy,” said CBS LA’s Desmond Shaw. “I don’t want the poor people that were caught in the bus crash today – I don’t want them to be forgotten either … I obviously just have to give my heartfelt condolences to NBC and the family members of the crew on board.” “Our hearts go out to all of them. This is when we all come together for something like this, even if you’ve never met the person,” CBS LA anchor Pat Harvey said.

“I want to say that we have each other’s backs.” That helicopter community is a small group of people, and it’s just devastating to know that this has happened to one of those people, to our friends and our colleagues at NBC4,” CBS LA assignment editor Mike Rogers said. “Our hearts are shattered with you.” This is a developing story. Check back for details.

Source: 3 dead after NBC Los Angeles news helicopter crashes near site of deadly bus crash in Chatsworth – CBS San Francisco

Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin.
1 Peter 4:1

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Mother injured after fighting off coyote that attacked 4-year-old daughter

Posted on by Leave a comment

An Arizona mother is recovering after she was attacked by a coyote that initially went after her 4-year-old daughter, reports AZFamily. Brittany Cardinal of Surprise, Arizona, was left with puncture wounds and lacerations on her face after the attack Sunday afternoon. She told the outlet that, before the attack, she and her daughter were outside because it was windy and her daughter wanted to fly a kite. While outside, Cardinal heard her daughter scream. When she turned around, she saw a coyote nipping at the girl.

“I picked [my daughter] up, and then I started yelling at [the coyote], thinking, of course, it’s going to go away, and then it didn’t,” Cardinal said. Cardinal says she took off her flip-flop and tried to intimidate the coyote with it, but during the struggle, she fell and the coyote lunged and clamped down on her face. “I always hear people say you don’t feel the pain when trauma like that happens, and, I mean, I really didn’t feel any pain.

I just felt like the pressure of it,” Cardinal said. Cardinal and her daughter were eventually able to get away and run home for help. “There was no hesitation at all. I don’t even think I thought about anything. I think you just, like, as a mom, you just try to protect your kid,” she said.

Source: Mother injured after fighting off coyote that attacked 4-year-old daughter

O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
Psalm 34:8

A study of the Mesha Stele

The Mesha Stele, also famously known as the Moabite Stone, is a 3-foot-tall black basalt monument dating back to circa 840 BCE. It is one of the most vital archaeological discoveries…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Muslim Shoots Christian Woman to Death in Pakistan

Posted on by Leave a comment

A married, 21-year-old Christian woman was shot dead inside her home in Rawalpindi last week by a Muslim neighbor whose advances she had rejected, reflecting an attitude among many Pakistan Muslims that crimes against Christians will go unpunished, sources said. Saba Mehboob, who separated from her husband a year ago, was shot in the forehead at about 9 p.m. on Thursday (Sept. 3), after the alleged assailant, Adnan Butt, entered the house in Dhoke Ratta locality with a pistol, according to her brother, Joshua Mehboob. The suspect then abducted her teenage stepbrother and pressured him to falsely confess to the killing, according to the victim’s family.

Joshua Mehboob, a member of a local Full Gospel Assemblies church, said Butt accused his sister of dishonoring him before shooting her in front of her 16-year-old stepbrother, Anoosh. “According to Anoosh, he and his paternal uncles, Michael and Nomi, were in a room when Butt suddenly entered with Saba, loudly abusing her,” Mehboob said. “He pointed his pistol at Michael and Nomi and ordered them to leave. He then slapped Saba repeatedly while shouting that she had dishonored him and been disloyal to him.” Butt then shot Saba in the forehead, killing her instantly, Mehboob said. Butt subsequently forced Anoosh outside at gunpoint, where another man was waiting on a motorcycle, according to Mehboob. The two men allegedly took the teenager to the home of Butt’s brother-in-law, where several other people were present.

Mehboob said the men threatened to kill Anoosh if he told police that Butt had killed his sister and pressured the adolescent to confess to the murder. “Anoosh was kept in their custody until about 5 p.m. on Sept. 4,” Mehboob said. “Meanwhile, Butt also threatened Anoosh’s father and other family members with death if they registered a case against him.” He said Anoosh was released after his father and uncles agreed not to file a police complaint. After his release, Anoosh went with relatives to the district headquarters hospital to receive his sister’s body, Mehboob said. Police arrived there to record his statement and, after hearing his account, asked him to become the complainant in the case, he said.

Police subsequently took Anoosh and his father into protective custody, according to Mehboob. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered, but Butt later obtained pre-arrest bail from a court, he said. Mehboob alleged that Butt had been harassing and threatening Saba Mehboob for some time. He said she twice had slapped him after he blocked her way in a market. “I think Saba’s rejection fueled his anger, leading him to murder her,” he said. Saba Mehboob’s killing prompted a protest in Dhoke Ratta, where Christian and Muslim residents reportedly called for Butt’s arrest. Rawalpindi-based journalist Tariq Chaman said members of Saba Mehboob’s family and local residents alleged that police were pressuring Anoosh to accept responsibility for his sister’s death. “Police have denied the allegations and said the teenage boy is being kept in custody for his protection,” Chaman said.

“His father has also been kept with him because the boy is a minor.” The family and local elders are demanding the release of Anoosh and his father and calling for the investigation to be transferred from Dhoke Ratta police station to a senior police officer, Chaman said. His sources indicated that additional circumstances surrounding the case could emerge as the investigation progresses and potentially affect the direction of the murder inquiry. “Local sources have claimed that Butt and his family have criminal histories, and it’s possible that the victim’s family may succumb to their pressure at some stage,” Chaman said. Human rights advocates have long raised concerns about the vulnerability of religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly in cases involving sexual violence, forced conversion and allegations of blasphemy.

Rights groups have also documented cases in which victims or their families face intimidation and pressure to settle disputes outside the formal justice system. Mehboob told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News that his sister was one of five children born to his mother from her first marriage to Mehboob Masih. After Masih died several years ago, their mother remarried Yaqoob Masih and had five more children with him, including Anoosh. Saba Mehboob married Zeeshan Mehmood about six years ago, but she separated from him more than a year ago because of his severe drug addiction and moved back to live with their mother in Dhoke Ratta with her two daughters, Joshua Mehboob said.

Open Doors, a Christian organization that monitors persecution, ranked Pakistan eighth in its 2026 World Watch List of countries where Christians face the greatest difficulty. The organization cited systemic discrimination, mob violence, forced conversion and weaknesses in law enforcement among the factors contributing to risks faced by Christians in Pakistan.

Source: Muslim Shoots Christian Woman to Death in Pakistan – Morningstar News

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
Psalm 118:6

Finding Truth and Life in Jesus

In a world filled with competing voices, confusing paths, and endless distractions, Jesus doesn’t simply show us the way He declares, ‘I am the way.’ When everything around…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Christian Teen Beaten for Protecting Women in Pakistan

Posted on by Leave a comment

A 17-year-old Christian man named Ikhlaq Masih was severely beaten by a mob in Nasrat Colony, a town in Ajnianwala, Sheikhupura, Pakistan, where many Christians reside.  Masih works making pizzas at a restaurant, while his father, Saleem, works at a brick kiln and his mother, Zakriya, is a homemaker. The modest family has limited financial resources and is now facing the heavy burden of medical expenses and basic living costs.  Locals report that an influential local man’s son, Ali Shah, along with his friends, made a habit of coming to Nasrat Colony every Sunday to harass, mock, and follow local girls as families walked to church.

On Sunday, Aug. 16, Masih saw the gang harassing a girl and confronted them, asking why they kept coming to their neighborhood to trouble women.  An argument broke out. The gang hurled religious slurs, calling Masih a “chura,” a derogatory term used against Christians in Pakistan, and asked how he dared to stand up to them. Shah and his group left the scene temporarily, but waited for Masih to leave the village later that day.  The Ambush When Masih was alone, Shah and his gang returned armed with pistols, iron rods, and motorcycle chains. They attacked him while shouting verbal abuse and repeating religious slurs. Bystanders alerted Masih’s parents, who rushed to the scene and pleaded with the attackers to stop. By the time they arrived, Masih was unconscious. 

Masih was rushed to the hospital and later referred to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital due to the severity of his condition. An official medical certificate was issued confirming severe injuries across multiple parts of his body.  Although a First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against the perpetrators, the family fears the suspects may receive bail due to their local influence. Shah and those with him have reportedly threatened to kill Masih if the family pursues legal action.  The local Christian community is praying for justice and calling on law enforcement to ensure the perpetrators are punished, warning that releasing the suspects could put Masih’s life in further danger. 

Source: Christian Teen Beaten for Protecting Women in Pakistan – International Christian Concern

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. John 15:18

Hope in the dark

Pip: A mountain village, a wandering stranger, a mother weaving a basket by the river — Drink of Jesus has been building a world where…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Bahraich leopard attacks: boy killed, girl injured as floods push animals into villages

Posted on by Leave a comment

A nine-year-old boy was killed and a three-year-old girl was injured in two separate leopard attacks in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district, forest officials said on Tuesday. The officials said cases of wild animals entering populated areas have risen in different parts of the district because of flooding. In one attack, Rajveer, 9, was mauled by a leopard in Anand Nagar village in the Katarniaghat range at around 9 pm on Monday.

In the other, a girl identified as Lado was attacked in Jodwa village under the Nanpara range late on Sunday evening and was later referred to Lucknow for treatment. Divisional Forest Officer of the Katarniaghat Wildlife Division Apoorva Dixit said Rajveer had gone to fetch water from a handpump near the road when the leopard attacked him. “The boy had gone to fetch water from a handpump located alongside the road when the leopard attacked him,” Dixit said. He added that there are sugarcane fields behind the boy’s house and the leopard came out from one of the fields before attacking him.

Rajveer was seriously injured and his family members and villagers were taking him to a community health centre, but he died on the way, Dixit said. The body has been sent for a post-mortem examination. He said the forest department has given immediate financial assistance of Rs 10,000 to the boy’s mother and the process for payment of the remaining compensation under the rules is underway. Dixit said leopard pugmarks were found near the spot of the attack. Camera traps are being installed to identify the animal and cages are being set up to capture it. “Due to flooding in the area, wild animals are moving towards higher ground and nearby villages,” he said.

In the second incident, Divisional Forest Officer of the Bahraich Wildlife Division Sundaresha said the injured girl was first taken to Bahraich Medical College and later referred to Lucknow for better treatment. “According to information received on Tuesday, the girl is safe and her condition is out of danger in Lucknow,” he said. Dixit said a continuous operation is under way to safely remove leopards from populated areas.

He said 13 leopards have been rescued since July 21, while 18 leopards have been rescued and shifted to safer locations since the start of the year. The two attacks came as officials continued efforts to track and capture leopards moving into villages in the flood-hit district.

Source: Bahraich leopard attacks: boy killed, girl injured as floods push animals into villages – India Today

Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.
1 Corinthians 7:2

Two people injured in recent bear attacks in Colorado high country

Colorado Parks and Wildlife says two people were recently injured in separate bear attacks in the high country. On Tuesday, a bear reportedly entered a home in Steamboat Springs near Fish Creek Falls Road. The woman told wildlife officers the bear entered her home through the sliding glass door around 1 a.m., and she attempted…

Keep reading

Colorado firefighters say bear broke into home and started fire

Firefighters in Crested Butte said that a house fire was started by a bear after the animal got inside the private residence. The Crested Butte Fire Protection District posted on its Facebook page that crews responded to a residential structure fire overnight on Aug. 19 in the Mt. Crested Butte neighborhood.  According to fire officials,…

Keep reading

Tech Distractions: Reclaim Your Time with God

You can scroll for an hour and still feel empty, because not everything that captures your attention deserves your heart. If something can control your attention for hours but you can’t give God five minutes, it’s time to ask what really has control.  Bible Verse:“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not…

Keep reading

At least 10 railcars derail in Mansfield; no injuries reported, officials say

Police are directing traffic and the Grand Prairie hazmat unit is on the scene after at least 10 railcars derailed in Mansfield on Thursday evening, officials said. The derailment happened near Seeton Road and South Holland Road around 2:30 p.m. The Mansfield Fire Department also responded. No injuries or leaks have been reported, authorities said.…

Keep reading

North Texas heat wave sparks power outages across Dallas neighborhoods

The extreme heat in North Texas is straining electrical equipment and causing scattered power outages across several Dallas neighborhoods. More than a dozen residents in the Kessler Park neighborhood told CBS News Texas they experienced two outages on Monday during the extreme temperatures. One lasted about an hour, and the second about 30 minutes.  Will…

Keep reading

Lawmakers expected to pass law ending child marriage in California

California lawmakers are expected to pass a new law ending child marriage within the state.  Currently, California is one of three states that allow children of any age to get married if a parent or guardian signs off. The bill passing through the legislature would end underage marriage with no exceptions.  “So many survivors of…

Keep reading

Big Bear wildlife activists name eagle spotted with Shadow

Wildlife activists on Thursday named the new eagle that has been spotted following Shadow through Big Bear’s treetops and skies. “Generally, Friends of Big Bear Valley does not give names to nest visitors unless they have been around long-term…until now,” the Friends of Big Bear Valley wrote in a Facebook post. FOBBV chose the name…

Keep reading

Midday storm threat in Chicago area on Friday

Thunderstorms return to the Chicago area on Friday.  Most of the morning remains dry, but by lunchtime, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to move into the Chicago area.  Storms could be severe, with a level 2 out of 5; a slight risk is in place. Damaging winds up to 60-65 miles per hour and…

Keep reading

Overcoming Distractions: Look to Jesus

Whatever you constantly look at will eventually influence how you live. When the world gets loud and life gets overwhelming, don’t stare harder at the distraction, look up and fix your eyes on Jesus.  Bible Verse:Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and…

Keep reading

Alaska Air Guard Rescues Injured Hiker From Hatcher Pass

At the request of the Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Air National Guardsmen of the 176th Wing rescued an injured hiker from steep terrain in the Hatcher Pass area, approximately 40 miles north of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Aug. 18. When the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center received the request for assistance, an HH-60W Jolly Green II aircrew…

Keep reading

Authorities seize 29 cats, 1 dog from condemned Brooklyn Park home

Dozens of animals are beginning new lives after being rescued from a Twin Cities home last month. Twenty-nine cats and a dog were seized from the home of a 68-year-old Brooklyn Park woman. Investigators got a search warrant after years of complaints, some dating as far back as 2001. According to a criminal complaint, the…

Keep reading

Severe storms in weather forecast for Maryland Thursday, drier Friday

The WJZ First Alert Weather Team has declared Thursday as a First Alert Weather Day for the potential of a line of powerful storms across Maryland that could bring down trees and cause localized flooding and power outages this afternoon and evening.  Scattered showers are possible Thursday morning, but the main batch of strong to…

Keep reading

Be Strong and Courageous: A Biblical Perspective

Courage begins where certainty ends. When the path ahead feels unknown and the weight of responsibility feels heavy, God calls His people not to retreat in fear, but to step forward in faith. His command to Joshua reminds us that strength does not come from our ability, but from God’s faithful presence. Haven’t I commanded…

Keep reading

The Distraction of Fear

Fear has a way of making tomorrow feel more real than today. But you were never meant to live inside a future that hasn’t happened yet, you were called to trust the God who is already there.  Bible Verse:“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God.” Isaiah…

Keep reading

Firefighters rescue 5 kittens from house fire in Spokane

Five kittens were rescued from a house fire after crews responded within minutes on Monday to a single family home on East 5th Avenue, according to the Spokane Fire Department (SFD). Crews were first dispatched around 4:46 p.m. to the 2100 block of East 5th Avenue following a report from a neighbor who observed smoke coming…

Keep reading

CT rescue fosters dogs from Middle East to help troops who saved them

For South Windsor resident Jessica Waterhouse, caring for animals is her life passion. Five years ago, she opened an animal sanctuary and recently three “very special” puppies were delivered to her doorstep from thousands of miles away. Waterhouse, whose son serves in the U.S. Army and is currently deployed to the Middle East, said a…

Keep reading

When Other People’s Opinions Get Loud

The loudest voice in your life isn’t always the one speaking the truth. If you spend your life trying to become who everyone else wants you to be, you may eventually lose sight of who God created you to be.  Bible Verse:“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am…

Keep reading

2 manatees rescued after beaching near New Smyrna Dunes Dog Beach

Two manatees beached near New Smyrna Dunes Dog Beach have been returned to the Indian River in New Smyrna Beach. A viewer told News 6 the manatees first beached themselves around 2 p.m. Witnesses say they began reaching out to wildlife authorities and marine rescue organizations at that time. “We sent a crew down to…

Keep reading

Too Busy to Hear God

You can be so busy doing things for God that you never stop long enough to hear from God. Sometimes the biggest distraction in your life isn’t rebellion, it’s simply being too busy to be still.  Bible Verse:“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 Being busy can make us feel productive. You…

Keep reading

Who Has Your Attention?

Your attention is one of the most valuable things you own, and everyone wants a piece of it. The question isn’t whether something is getting your attention—the question is whether Jesus is getting enough of it.  Bible Verse:“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2 Have you ever thought…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Wisconsin Rep. Tom Tiffany suffers minor injuries when his plane makes an emergency landing in a lake

Posted on by Leave a comment
News anchor presents BREAKING NEWS: plane crash, passenger airliner down in France, multiple fatalities.

Wisconsin congressman and Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany said he suffered minor injuries after a plane he was in made an emergency landing Saturday night on Lake Wausau in central Wisconsin. In a post on X, Tiffany said while returning home from the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner, in Onalaska, Wisconsin, the plane lost power as it approached Wausau Downtown Airport.

The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau, he said, and the two called 911. As the plane began to submerge, Tiffany and the pilot exited the aircraft and swam to a shallow area where they waited for emergency responders, he said. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to the pilot, the Wausau Fire Department, and all of the first responders who came to our aid so quickly,” Tiffany said in the post. “They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care.” The Marathon County Sheriff’s Office told CNN affiliate WSAW the plane will be marked with a buoy and asked people to stay away.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and State Patrol also responded to the scene, according to WSAW, and the investigation will be handed over to the Federal Aviation Administration. In dispatch audio obtained and verified by CNN, authorities mention someone inside the plane made a 911 call. Later, an official responding to the crash confirms two people inside the plane had been rescued. “Boat heads back to landing with two victims,” the official at the scene is heard telling dispatchers. “Both are alert and conscious.” “God was watching over us tonight, and I am incredibly grateful to be here in the hospital with my wife, Chris, by my side.

An experience like this reminds you just how precious life is,” Tiffany said in his post. CNN has reached out to Tiffany’s office, the Wisconsin DNR, State Patrol and the FAA for further information. Tiffany, a member of the far-right House Freedom Caucus, won his party’s nomination for governor of Wisconsin in the primary elections, bolstered by the support of President Donald Trump. His Democratic opponent in the governor’s race, David Crowley, said in a post on X he was “grateful to God that Congressman Tiffany and no one else was hurt in this horrifying incident, which could have been a tragedy if not for the heroism of the pilot.” “I wish them and the Congressman a quick recovery and that they can find solace with their loved ones,” Crowley added.

Source: Wisconsin Rep. Tom Tiffany suffers minor injuries when his plane makes an emergency landing in a lake | CNN

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.
1 John 3:1

Finding Strength in God

You don’t have to carry this alone, He is your safe place and your help in every moment of need.  Bible Verse:God is our Refuge and Strength…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

AOC and Mamdani take heat for apparently laughing as 9/11 victims’ names are read off

Posted on by Leave a comment

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) are under fire from Republicans after the two socialists were captured on video apparently sharing a laugh as the names of victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack were being read off. Mamdani attended the 25th anniversary ceremony in New York City on Friday, during which family members of the fallen read off the names of nearly 3,000 victims who were killed in the attack.

As the names were being read, Mamdani and Ocasio-Cortez seemed to giggle with each other. See Options › Already a member? Log in The exchange quickly gained traction online and caught the ire of Republicans, who viewed the moment as being “disrespectful.” Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) responded to the video, questioning how they could be laughing at such a serious event. “How the hell do you laugh while the names of those murdered on 9/11 are being read aloud?” The senator said. “Why would you do so?” Rep. Randy Fine (R-FL) also responded and did not mince his words in condemning the two lawmakers.

“AOC and Jihadi Mamdani should not be anywhere near that hallowed ground,” Fine said. “They do not mourn this country — they mock it. Have some damn respect.” Mamdani has faced scrutiny surrounding his attendance at the ceremony due to past statements on U.S. foreign policy and his appointment of Ramzi Kassem to be the city’s chief counsel. Kassem represented Ahmed al Darbi, an al Qaeda associate who pleaded guilty to war crimes charges. The mayor has defended his attendance at the ceremony, saying he intends to keep the day focused on the victims of the terrorist attacks and the first responders who died trying to save people trapped in the buildings.

However, Mamdani, who is Muslim, posted a statement Thursday about attending a memorial mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral to honor those lost in 9/11. In the post, Mamdani said he was remembering those “who died on 9/11,” which did not sit well with Republicans. Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV) responded to Mamdani’s post with outrage. “DIED?? They were murdered by Islamic terrorists!!” Moore said. Former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt also took to social media to sharply criticize Mamdani’s characterization of 9/11.

“No mention of terrorism,” he said. “We just… ‘bore witness to unimaginable suffering’. Like it was a natural disaster. Did a hurricane hit NYC on 9/11? What exactly happened on that day, Commie Mamdani? What’s with these ‘some people did something’ foreign muslim politicians always downplaying 9/11?” “At least Ilhan Omar acknowledged that people did it,” he continued. “Zohran can’t even do that. He is just a very nasty, spiteful animal. You saw it in that clip where he was yelling over the police like a rabid chihuahua. You see it in his dark, dead eyes when he drops his Manchurian smile.”

25 YEARS LATER, FOX REPORTER REMEMBERS TOLL OF 9/11: ‘LIKE AL QAEDA HAS INVADED OUR HOSPITAL ROOMS’ “This is the darkest anniversary of our nation’s defining tragedy because we all have to suffer the indignity of watching this piece of s*** try to erase our history bit by bit,” Pratt said. “He doesn’t hate the muslim terrorists like we do. It pains him to even address 9/11. You can tell. He doesn’t care. He, like Hasan Piker, thinks we deserved it. F*** off.”

Several other responses took issue with what they saw as Mamdani speaking about the attacks as if they were a “natural disaster” rather than the result of al Qaeda terrorists hijacking planes, killing nearly 3,000 people. Thousands of others have died or gotten sick from the poor air quality in New York City following the collapse of the Twin Towers.

Source: AOC and Mamdani take heat for apparently laughing as 9/11 victims’ names are read off

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.
Isaiah 43:2

Faith Under Pressure

Pip: Drink of Jesus is a site that treats ancient Scripture the way a good contractor treats load-bearing walls — you don’t move them just because the room…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

25 dead after cargo ship fire in Chinese port

Posted on by Leave a comment
Cargo ship under repair beside cranes and a tugboat in a shipyard

A cargo ship docked for repairs in a Chinese port caught fire, killing 25 people, Chinese state media reported Thursday. The ship was being repaired in the Beihai Shipbuilding Co. at the port of Qingdao, a major shipping hub on the northeastern Chinese coast. A photo released by Xinhua news agency identified the ship as the Ocean Melody, which sails under a Liberian flag, according to the tracking website VesselFinder. A total of 42 people had been on the vessel, and 12 of them were safely evacuated, Xinhua reported.

Five were injured and taken to the hospital, and they remained in a stable condition. The fire started around 11 a.m. Thursday and was extinguished by 2:30 p.m. local time. Videos online showed workers on the ship attempting to put out the fire. China’s President Xi Jinping issued “important instructions” to urgently conduct rescues of missing people on the ship, Xinhua said, adding that Premier Li Qiang called for “trapped” people to be rescued. Xi also called for ensuring “preventive measures are thoroughly implemented” and “resolutely prevent major and catastrophic accidents.”

Beihai Shipbuilding is part of the state-controlled China State Shipbuilding Corporation, the world’s largest shipbuilder. Its main businesses include shipbuilding and ship repairing, according to Beihai Shipbuilding’s website.

Source: 25 dead after cargo ship fire in Chinese port | AP News

O LORD, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, For You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.
Isaiah 25:1

The Weight of Leadership

“A church can survive criticism, but it cannot thrive without integrity. When spiritual leaders forget they answer first to God, the flock always bears the wounds.” “Not many of you…

Keep reading

Heaven is for Real Movie

“Heaven is for Real” is a faith-based family drama inspired by a Nebraska Pastor Tood Burpo’s best-selling book about his 4 years old son (Colton Burpo) who had visited heaven…

Keep reading

God’s Here

After losing his wife and son in a tragic accident, a firefighter wrestles with grief and forgiveness. Starring Kevin Sorbo (God’s Not Dead), Sarah Elizabeth Reeves Director: Bill McAdams Jr.…

Keep reading

Feeling Alone? God Sees You

Even when you feel invisible in your struggle, God sees every tear, every burden, and every silent prayer. Your exhaustion has not escaped His attention. “The Lord is close to…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Sacramento deputies had probable cause to arrest Panera gunman weeks before deadly shooting

Posted on by Leave a comment
Symbolic scales showing security and justice balanced against legal knowledge outside a courthouse

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed Friday the man who investigators say stalked a woman for months before executing her in a Panera Bread parking lot in Sacramento this week was in the country illegally. The victim was 38-year-old Shalini Thakur and her mother has said authorities failed to protect her. A spokesperson for DHS said Thakur’s killer, 22-year-old Rohit Rohit, was from India and entered the United States through Arizona in 2023.

He was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol and released by the Biden administration, according to the spokesperson. The exact details around his immigration status were not immediately clear as of Friday. Federal court records online showed his case was pending. The records showed no appeal had been received for his case and there were no hearings scheduled. Rohit killed himself amid a standoff with police on Highway 50 after the shooting. The scene left traffic at a standstill for hours.

“This illegal alien from India harassed, stalked, and then killed a 38-year-old woman in California, and then took his own life when police caught up to him,” said a DHS spokesperson. “This tragedy would have been completely avoided if it weren’t for the Biden Administration RELEASING this killer into our country. Sanctuary politicians must put an end to reckless policies that play Russian roulette with American lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and her family.” A spokesman for the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office told KCRA 3 earlier this week that the local agency does not have access to immigration status information.

The sheriff’s office did not immediately provide a response to the DHS announcement Friday. California’s sanctuary state law, commonly referred to as SB 54, limits local law enforcement’s ability to cooperate with immigration officials when an undocumented immigrant is accused of a crime. “Trying to turn a horrific act of stalking and domestic violence into an indictment of California’s sanctuary policies is not supported by the evidence and distracts from the real issues this case raises — law enforcement preventing stalking and domestic violence, enforcing restraining orders, and keeping victims safe,” said Diana Crofts-Pelayo, a spokesperson for Gov. Newsom’s office.

Investigators said Rohit had no known, local criminal history. He had been stalking and harassing Thakur since at least January of this year, according to the sheriff’s department. That’s when she discovered an Apple AirTag under her car’s hood. The sheriff’s office said the harassment and stalking worsened, describing one instance in which Rohit deflated the woman’s vehicle and followed her to work so he could offer her help. Rohit also allegedly got a copy of the woman’s apartment key and entered her home while she was sleeping. When the woman learned of this the following morning, the sheriff’s office said Rohit claimed he entered her apartment out of concern that something had happened to her when she did not answer.

Despite these instances, the sheriff’s office said the woman initially declined to pursue charges or get a restraining order. Detectives stayed in contact with the woman for months. In May, the sheriff’s office said deputies spoke with the woman and urged her again to get a restraining order, which she did. On July 29, deputies got a report that Rohit dropped off random grocery store items at the woman’s front door, which would have violated the restraining order. The sheriff’s office said deputies tried to contact Rohit twice after this. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office said Tuesday Rohit was waiting for Thakur outside the Panera Bread near Howe and Northrop avenues. Investigators said he confronted Thakur and chased her as she attempted to run before shooting her multiple times. Witnesses provided investigators with information about Rohit’s vehicle. Deputies located him within minutes on eastbound Highway 50 near Watt Avenue with assistance from the FLOCK camera system. In an emotional interview with KCRA 3 on Thursday night, Thakur’s mother said the system failed to protect her daughter. “Police did not protect my daughter,” she said.

Source: Sacramento deputies had probable cause to arrest Panera gunman weeks before deadly shooting

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.
Deuteronomy 7:9

Jesus Revolution

In the 1970s, young Greg Laurie (Joel Courtney) is searching for all the right things in all the wrong places: until he meets Lonnie Frisbee (Jonathan Roumie), a…

Keep reading

Letters to God

Tyler Doherty is an extraordinary eight-year-old boy armed with strong faith and courage as he faces his daily battle against cancer. Surrounded by a loving family and community,…

Keep reading

War Room

Pharmaceutical salesman Tony Jordan and his wife, realtor Elizabeth Jordan, appear outwardly successful; they have a large house, plenty of money, and a beautiful daughter named Danielle. Behind…

Keep reading

Climbing Your Mountain

Pip: A mountain village, a wandering stranger, a mother weaving a basket by the river — Drink of Jesus has been building a world where ancient scripture lands…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Flood watch issued for parts of Massachusetts with torrential rain in the weather forecast Sunday

Posted on by Leave a comment

The WBZ-TV Weather Team is issuing a NEXT Weather Alert for a potentially tricky weather situation for Sunday, especially across Rhode Island and southeast Massachusetts, where a flood watch is now in effect. The main concern will be from roughly 7 a.m. through 5 p.m. Sunday, with the greatest potential for heavy rainfall between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. We’re expecting periods of showers, along with a few embedded thunderstorms.

Most locations should see rainfall totals in the 0.50–2 inch range, but the bigger concern is the potential for localized narrow bands of torrential rain. If one of these heavier bands develops and stalls over an area, 2 to 4 inches of rain could fall within just 3 hours. That’s enough to create localized flash flooding, particularly in vulnerable urban areas where drainage can quickly become overwhelmed. Even though the overall setup isn’t necessarily a widespread flooding event, a localized corridor of very heavy rain could cause problems quickly. If you’re heading out Sunday morning or early afternoon, remember to never drive through a flooded roadway; turn around and find another route.

For now, the focus is on the potential for localized flash flooding within an otherwise fairly wet Sunday, with the greatest concern during the late morning and early afternoon hours. After the line moves through, we’ll actually end the day with some sunshine and much calmer conditions. 

Source: Flood watch issued for parts of Massachusetts with torrential rain in the weather forecast Sunday – CBS Boston

Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.
Proverbs 10:2

Peace in the Storm

God does not always remove the storm immediately, but He promises peace in the middle of it. His presence calms fearful hearts.  Bible Verse: “Peace I leave with you;…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Record-setting cyclospora outbreak is over, U.S. health officials declare

Posted on by Leave a comment
Rotting cabbage surrounded by eggshells and soil in a compost bin

The cyclospora food poisoning outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce is over, U.S. health officials said Friday. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said there is no longer a risk of people getting sick with cyclosporiasis from this outbreak and is confident that all related iceberg lettuce is off the market. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said that while the outbreak is over, it will continue its investigation of cyclospora infections linked to the iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico and recalled by Taylor Farms de Mexico.

“FDA will continue to work with federal, state, and international partners to complete its investigation and will provide updates as they become available,” the agency said on Friday. Nearly 13,000 reported cyclospora cases were tied to the outbreak spanning 21 states, federal officials say. They represent the bulk of an unprecedented surge in the parasitic diarrheal illness this year. More than 570 people have been hospitalized and two died, according to the FDA and CDC, as of Friday. Even with the outbreak deemed over, several questions remain, including about its origin. The parasite is spread through human feces, and it still isn’t clear how sewage could have contaminated enough food to sicken so many people.

“This contamination can happen if produce is grown in soil or comes into contact with water that has been contaminated,” said Ellen Shumaker, director of outreach for a North Carolina State University food safety program, Safe Plates. Since May 1, the government has received reports of nearly 20,000 lab-confirmed cases, or more than 16 times the number reported during the same period last year. More than 6,100 suspected cases also have been reported. The worst previous year in the U.S. for infections was 2019, when about 4,700 illnesses were reported nationally. This year’s surge in cases was dominated by an outbreak in 21 states linked to iceberg lettuce.

But there are thousands of other cases that have not been linked to that outbreak. Michigan was the hardest-hit state, with the most reported cases and the two U.S. deaths tied to the outbreak. Cyclospora is a microscopic, spherical parasite that commonly causes watery diarrhea “with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,” according to the CDC. Outbreaks tend to occur most often in the late spring and summer. The illness, called cyclosporiasis, is less common than foodborne illnesses caused by other germs, including salmonella and E. coli. Many cases are never linked to a specific food or other source. In this outbreak, investigators initially zeroed in on lettuce served at Taco Bell.

Federal officials subsequently focused on Taylor Farms as the source of the lettuce, and the company recalled iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico. The Taylor Farms recall involved thousands of packaged salad products combining iceberg lettuce with other vegetables. The products were shipped to major U.S. restaurant chains, including Yum Brands, which owns Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and KFC. The FDA has ended its on-site inspections and sample collection at iceberg lettuce growers and the processing facility in Mexico, the agency said Friday.

Samples from the on-site inspections are pending analysis, the FDA said. The outbreak cast a spotlight on a worsening problem: U.S. regulators are conducting fewer international inspections to catch contaminated produce before it lands on American plates.

Source: Record-setting cyclospora outbreak is over, U.S. health officials declare – CBS News

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?
Romans 6:1-2

Prayer for Boldness; Acts 4:24-31

When opposition rises against God’s people, the natural response is often fear. Yet the early church teaches us that the answer to intimidation is not retreat, but prayer to have…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Field of Flags marks 25 years since 9/11 at Kennesaw Mountain

Posted on by Leave a comment

At the foot of Kennesaw Mountain, 2,977 American flags now stand as a reminder that every person killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks had a life and a story. People of all ages joined first responders and community groups to plant the flags at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Each flag represents one person killed in the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. “It’s the feeling of giving back,” said Ernie Wagoner, president of the Kiwanis Club of Marietta. “Just look at the crowd we have here. We’ve got firemen, policemen. They just want to give back.”

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta first organized the Field of Flags in 2002. This year’s display is its sixth installation, according to the city of Marietta. The memorial is displayed every five years. Wagoner said more than 1,200 people signed up to help this year, with additional volunteers arriving without registering. “It brings the community together,” Wagoner said. For Melissa Tanner, volunteering was also an opportunity to teach her grandchildren about those who died and the first responders who risked their lives to save others. “I brought my grandchildren with me, and I wanted them to remember,” Tanner said. “I don’t want it to be sad. I want it to be a remembrance of those who gave their lives.” Roger Ball said the tribute offers younger generations a chance to understand the country’s history and learn from it. “The main thing is understand your history,” Ball said.

“Learn from it. How can we move forward and not let what happened to us happen again?” For Ball, planting the flags also brought together people who may not have otherwise met. “Anytime you have an opportunity like this to participate in an event where you are recognizing milestone events in America, it’s also unifying,” Ball said. The Field of Flags will remain on display through Sept. 19, according to the Kiwanis Club of Marietta.

Source: Field of Flags marks 25 years since 9/11 at Kennesaw Mountain – CBS Atlanta

For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Matthew 16:25

Robin Williams as the American Flag

Robin Williams portrays the American flag in “I Love Liberty,” a two-hour television special created by Norman Lear and presented by People For the American Way. Source: (630) Robin…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

U.S. women arrested for allegedly smuggling $1 million worth of drugs to Japan, one claims she was motivated by free trip

Posted on by Leave a comment
Police officers investigate a taped-off building beside a patrol car in rainy neon-lit Tokyo

Tokyo police arrested two American women for allegedly smuggling $1 million worth of cannabis into the country, with one suspect claiming she was motivated by a free trip to Japan, an official and media reports said Friday. The pair, both 25, arrived at Tokyo’s Haneda airport from New York last Saturday with two suitcases in which “cannabis-like dried plants were secretly stored,” a police spokesman told AFP. Nippon TV aired images of the drug seizure, showing more than a dozen packages containing the alleged cannabis.

Japan has some of the world’s strictest drug laws and smuggling or possession of illegal narcotics can result in a lengthy jail term. The dried cannabis weighed around 30 kilograms (66 pounds) and is valued at about 150 million yen ($970,000), media reported. One of the women told police she took the job for the money and because, “I was attracted by the fact I could go to Japan for free,” Nippon TV reported. The other suspect denies the allegation, telling police she “didn’t know that cannabis was inside” the suitcase, the Tokyo Shimbun reported, citing unnamed police sources.

The women “conspired with someone else whose name is unknown,” the police spokesman told AFP. They claimed they received instructions from a man they met on social media but never met in person, according to local media. The pair were arrested “on suspicion of violating the drugs and psychotropics control law, or, smuggling to gain profit,” the spokesman said. They also breached two other unnamed laws, he added. Smuggling cannabis for the purpose of making profit carries up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 3 million yen ($19,500).

Last December, prominent American playwright Jeremy O. Harris was arrested in Japan on suspicion of smuggling the psychedelic drug ecstasy. He was released three weeks later.

Source: U.S. women arrested for allegedly smuggling $1 million worth of drugs to Japan, one claims she was motivated by free trip – CBS News

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16

The Story of America: John Adams

The White House Salute to America 250 Task Force has partnered with Hillsdale College to provide a history series that tells the remarkable story of American Independence. It will…

Keep reading

George Washington on Freedom of Speech

George Washington never wrote a single famous statement that exactly says “freedom of speech” in the way many internet memes claim. However, throughout his writings and public addresses, he…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Teen survives for days clinging to capsized boat off Alaska

Posted on by Leave a comment
Person clinging to an overturned boat in rough ocean waves

A 15-year-old boy survived on top of an overturned skiff in Alaska’s frigid Bering Sea for roughly two days, losing his older brother and then his cousin to the ocean after the boat capsized while they were out fishing. The teen, identified by a relative as Derek Parker Aghnaanga, was finally hoisted to safety Monday by a fishing boat near St. Lawrence Island — a remote Alaskan island closer to Russia than it is to the United States.

The bodies of his cousin and brother were also recovered. The cousin had held onto the overturned boat for a while too, but did not survive until the rescue, the teen told one of the rescuers. The captain of the fishing boat that came to his aid said Aghnaanga clung to the skiff through darkness and water temperatures around 50 degrees (10 degrees Celsius). “That’s one tough kid,” Adam White, captain of The Northwest Explorer, told KTUU-TV in Anchorage. “Through the teeth chattering, he had mentioned that his brother was still under the skiff,” White said. “And then he said that, in the previous night, before our rescue, that his cousin had slipped away.”

U.S. Coast Guard planes and helicopters began searching for the skiff Monday morning after family members reported the three missing the night before. The group left the village of Savoonga on St. Lawrence Island on Friday and planned to return early Sunday, the Coast Guard said.

Source: Teen survives for days clinging to capsized boat off Alaska | AP News

No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light.
Luke 8:16

States That Allow Bible in the Classroom

Texas public schools will now require students to read Bible passages and stories as part of the latest conservative push to expand the role of religion in public education—a move bound to escalate wrangling…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

9/11 Never Forget; An Awesome Tribute

Posted on by Leave a comment
the statue of liberty against the background of the new york city


Created by Steve A. I hear a song and that song evokes an emotion and that emotion in me helped in the creation of this tribute video. While I wish all of the images were high resolution….some images of that day were caught with low quality equipment and the images I chose all seemed to fit with how I was feeling. I witnessed the events of this day like many of us did and it changed me forever.

It will always feel fresh in my mind and feel like it happened yesterday. Having experienced such a tragic day….your outlook on so many world events changes. It is amazing how divided the world seems right now but how unified we all were after the events of 9/11

Source: 9-11 Sounds of Silence -Tribute by Steve A Disturbed (((MIRROR)))

For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.
1 Corinthians 15:3-4

Judge PROTECTS ILLEGAL Immigrant Voting

Judge Sparkle says you cannot remove illegal immigrant from voter rolls because maybe it removes citizens blocking Trump from securing US elections Source: (604) Judge PROTECTS ILLEGAL Immigrant Voting | Tim Pool…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

25 years after 9/11, Indiana man who survived World Trade Center attack still making sure America never forgets

Posted on by Leave a comment
Lower Manhattan skyline with the original World Trade Center towers

Across the country on Friday, ceremonies will honor the thousands who lost their lives 25 years ago in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and among the survivors, a Dyer, Indiana, resident is on a mission. On Sept. 11, 2001, Don Bacso was working as an IT consultant for a Chicago-based company. When American Airlines Flight 11 hit the north tower of the World Trade Center between the 93th and 94th floor, Bacso was on the 57th floor.

“I was loading software into a computer when the first plane struck. It hit at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Standard Time,” he said. “It was unbelievable. It was terrifying. You could hear beams creaking in the walls.” Bacso said the scariest moment for him was when the World Trade Center started to sway. “I thought to myself, ‘Oh my God, I am in this building, and it’s trying to fall. Which way do I run?'” he said. He ran to the stairs like many others “People were having panic attacks, asthma attacks.

Every once in a while you would hear, ‘Injured coming down, move to the right,’ and that was the first time I saw how badly burned some people were as they brought them by us,” he said. It took about half an hour for Bacso to get down the stairs, find his way through the smoke and debris, walk to his hotel, and call his young family. “I said, ‘Just know that I’m okay. I’m fine and I will come home. I will get home,'” he said. When he looks back on that day, Bacso can’t believe it’s been 25 years. “It passed by so quickly. I look back on that day and everything that I saw. I mean, the destruction, the devastation, the pain, the suffering, all that; but I saw so much courage in that, too,” he said.

He’s talking about the medical personnel, firefighters, and police officers who went into the World Trade Center after the planes hit. “I’ve never seen anything like it. They were going in and we were coming down. People have said to me in the past that, ‘You’re a hero,'” he said. “No, the heroes were going up that day. I was going down.” More than 400 emergency responders died during 9/11, the vast majority of them firefighters. Bacso’s mission the last 25 years has been doing his part to make sure America never forgets by sharing his story of survival. “We can’t forget that day. We can’t forget the sacrifice and the loss of lives from that day, and the courage and patriotism,” he said.

Bacso plans to leave a suitcase with his clothes, shoes, and World Trade Center ID badge from that day, along with other mementos, to his sons. He wants them to carry on his mission to continue sharing his story. “All these things, the badges, you know, the articles, things like that, I’ve got to turn it over to my sons for their families,” he said. “A lot of people don’t understand how precious your life is until you experience something like that.” That’s what he plans to do as long as he can, so America won’t forget “If I can express to them when I go out and speak, and talk about life, and talk about how it affected my life, I feel like it’s a great benefit to them, and it benefits me too internally,” he said.

Source: 25 years after 9/11, Indiana man who survived World Trade Center attack still making sure America never forgets – CBS Chicago

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Mark 16:15

Psalm 2:1-12; The One True King

The One True King Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord,…

Keep reading

Matthew 4:7; It is Written

Jesus said to him, “Again, it is written, ‘You shall not test the Lord, your God.” This verse records Jesus’ response to Satan during His temptation in the wilderness: “It is written again,…

Keep reading

A Father After God’s Own Heart

The world does not need perfect Dads, it needs godly fathers who are willing to follow God and lead their families with faith, humility, and love. A father who walks with God…

Keep reading

What is the definition of theology?

The word “theology” comes from two Greek words that combined mean “the study of God.” Christian theology is simply an attempt to understand God as He is revealed in the Bible. No…

Keep reading

A Father Who Stands Strong in Faith

The world continually challenges fathers to compromise their values and convictions. God calls fathers to stand firm in faith and lead their families with courage. “Be on your guard; stand firm in…

Keep reading

A Father Who Leads with Wisdom

Godly leadership requires more than strength; it requires wisdom. Dads are called to seek God’s direction so they can guide their families according to His truth.  Bible Verse:”Trust in the Lord with…

Keep reading

A Father Who Leaves a Godly Legacy

Every father leaves a legacy. The question is not whether we will leave one, but what kind of legacy it will be.  Bible Verse:”A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s…

Keep reading

A Father Who Loves Like God

A Dad’s love can leave a lasting imprint on a child’s heart. God calls dads to reflect His unconditional love through patience, grace, and compassion. “Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14…

Keep reading

Not Meant For the Government

“The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.” Patrick Henry Patrick Henry | Revolutionary War Patriot…

Keep reading

What is the Pentateuch?

At times, another person’s insight can help us see God’s Word in a fresh and meaningful way. In this article, we share content designed to encourage your faith, deepen your understanding of…

Keep reading

When Silence Protects the Wrong

One of the deepest forms of church hurt happens when abuse, misconduct, or harmful behavior is ignored, minimized, or covered up—especially when trusted leaders or respected members are involved. The pain becomes…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Man who plants thousands of 9/11 memorial flags in West Sacramento will retire, hopes tradition lives on

Posted on by Leave a comment
american flags on grass field

More than 2,000 miles from ground zero, thousands of flags were planted into West Sacramento soil to help sow the seeds of remembrance for the victims of the 9/11 terror attacks on the World Trade Center. It’s an annual tradition led by volunteer John Vinson, who first started a memorial at the corner of Jefferson Boulevard and Locks Drive with just 14 flags in 2003.

Since then, the memorial has grown every year and now includes thousands of flags of all shapes and sizes, one to honor each of the 2,753 people who were killed when the Twin Towers collapsed, including flags for the 343 firefighters who died that day as they rushed in to try and save lives. “We have a flag for each one and the country they were from,” Vinson said. Friday marks 25 years since the terror attacks of September 11, 2001.

Wednesday morning, volunteers rolled up their sleeves and got to work placing each and every flag one by one. The flags stand at attention, waving at passersby along the busy stretch of Jefferson Boulevard. It is an invitation to slow down and reflect. “I think it’s just important people remember that and how precious life really is,” Vinson said. “A million tears have poured out here on this field.” Also erected on the site are two replica towers honoring the former World Trade Center. “I built these years and years ago,” Vinson said about the towers. “In fact, they’ve been touched up so many times the paint is probably thicker than the wood.”

They stand as a symbol of resolve. Vinson started the West Sacramento tradition 23 years ago and other volunteers have helped him keep the memorial growing every year since. He calls it his calling. Still, health and age have slowed Vinson down over the years. After this Friday, he will retire from the volunteer service and says he hopes to leave the tradition to be carried on by other volunteers. “That’s probably the main reason I did it one more time is because it was the 25th anniversary this year,” Vinson said.

It is entirely a volunteer effort to organize and place all of the flags and displays. Matthew Ferguson came out to help for the first time on Wednesday morning. At 23 years old, he was not alive during the 9/11 terror attacks but represents the next generation who do not remember, but recognize the events of that day all the same. “I’m very proud of my country, and I thought it’d be nice to volunteer today to help memorialize all the people who lost their lives,” said Ferguson.

Ferguson plans to join the United States Navy in the near future. Neighbors paused on Wednesday afternoon to soak it in as the display grew. Barbara Morris brought her young granddaughter and said when she sees the flags she thinks instantly of sacrifice. “It’s all the lives. All the lives lost and what they sacrificed for us,” Morris said. It has become a place to heal over the years for both those with direct connections to the 9/11 attacks and those without any. It’s been protected and preserved for decades.

“One of the things I’m really kind of strict about is I don’t let people talk about politics or religion here. I want to keep it real simple,” Vinson said. The site serves as a roadside reminder to never forget. The memorial will continue to grow over the next few days as volunteers add to it. It is expected to be finished by Friday, September 11. Anyone who wants to volunteer is welcome to come out and all are invited to stop by the site and pay their respects.

Source: Man who plants thousands of 9/11 memorial flags in West Sacramento will retire, hopes tradition lives on – CBS Sacramento

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Boston Public Garden flags honor 2,977 lives lost in 9/11 attacks 25 years ago

Posted on by Leave a comment

Volunteers and students came together Thursday evening in Boston’s Public Garden to plant nearly 3,000 flags, each one a tribute to the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001. Behind each flag is a name, a family, and a life representing the 2,977 people killed in the terrorist attacks. Twenty-five years later, the sea of red, white and blue stands on the Public Garden as a reminder to never forget. Among the flags, one is honoring Mark Bavis, who was aboard one of the two hijacked planes that took off from Boston’s Logan Airport that morning.

Teaming up with the Massachusetts 9/11 fund, his brother Patrick has now made it his mission to make sure younger generations understand what happened that day and always remember. “It seemed like yesterday,” said Patrick Bavis. “The young kids are the future of this country, they got to understand that life isn’t fair and people get taken from you. For us in Boston, 206 victims were taken that day.” Helping put the display together were the Navy Junior ROTC at John D. O’Bryant School and Scouting America who were learning while remembering.

“I want to give them my respects as well as honor them because that’s a really big moment in our history even though it wasn’t the best one, it’s something we all want to pay attention to,” said ROTC student Karissa Jean-Michel. The impact of 9/11 heightens our appreciation for our first responders and service members like retired Air Force Gen. Jonathan Treacy, who commanded Otis Air National Guard Base fighter jets to respond to the attacks. “It’s a little surreal, 25 years have gone so very fast,” said Treacy.

“Those lessons that we’ve learned from 9/11 aren’t something that get passed on unless every generation has a sense for what happened, why it happened, the incredible impact of what happened and the loss of life.” And as long as the flags stand, they also symbolize the resolve of our country after one of its darkest days. “Nineteen terrorists took us to our knees that day, yeah they beat us that day, but the next day America came back, and I want the students today to understand that we can be strong together,” said Bavis.

The 9/11 commemoration events start at the State House on Friday at 8:30 a.m. with a reading of the names of the 219 victims with ties to Massachusetts, a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., and the presentation of the Madeline “Amy” Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery inside the House Chamber.

Source: Boston Public Garden flags honor 2,977 lives lost in 9/11 attacks 25 years ago – CBS Boston

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:18

1 Peter 1:6–7

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it…

Keep reading

1 Timothy 1:13-15

Though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that…

Keep reading

Psalm 1:1–3

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;  but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on…

Keep reading

James 1:14–15

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings…

Keep reading

Galatians 6:7

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. This reminds us that our choices have consequences. God is not fooled by outward…

Keep reading

Proverbs 13:20

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. This reminds us that the people we spend time with have a powerful influence on…

Keep reading

1 Corinthians 15:33

Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals. We can see here that Paul gives a powerful warning: the people and influences we allow into our lives can shape our…

Keep reading

Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.…

Keep reading

Proverbs 18:21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. This verse reminds us that our words carry tremendous power. That…

Keep reading

Proverbs 23:7

For he is like one who is inwardly calculating. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. This verse reminds us that our thoughts shape…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Flight 93 Memorial ceremonies today mark 25 years since 9/11

Posted on by Leave a comment
american flags on the field

Today marks 25 years since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and observance ceremonies will be held at the Flight 93 Memorial near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, to remember the lives lost that day.

Nearly 3,000 people died and thousands more were injured as terrorists carried out coordinated attacks on the World Trade Center skyscrapers in New York and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.  United Airlines Flight 93 was headed for the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., but the passengers and crew members fought back, leading to the plane crashing into an empty field in Somerset County. 

Remembrance ceremonies will begin at 8:30 a.m. near the Wall of Names. They are expected to run until 10:30 a.m. and will include a reflection on all the attacks from 25 years ago, the reading of the names of the Flight 93 passengers and crew, and the Bells of Remembrance will be rung in their honor.  

A memorial wall made of marble panels, featuring engraved names and a small bouquet of flowers placed at its base, along with a figurine.

SHANKSVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Flowers are placed at the Wall of Names during a ceremony commemorating the 23rd anniversary of the crash of Flight 93 during the September 11th terrorist attacks at the Flight 93 National Memorial on September 11, 2024 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.  / Getty Images

The afternoon ceremony, scheduled from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., will feature remarks, keynote speakers, music and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Wall of Names. Then, on Saturday, at 7:30 p.m., there will be 40 candle lanterns brought to the Wall of Names as the sun goes down. Thousands of people are expected to attend today’s events at the Flight 93 National Memorial. 

Source: Flight 93 Memorial ceremonies today mark 25 years since 9/11 attacks – CBS Pittsburgh

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.
John 4:24

Matthew 6:22

“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, In this verse Jesus…

Keep reading

Luke 6:45

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

25 years after 9/11, Massachusetts to mark attacks with statewide moment of silence and “Tribute in Light”

Posted on by Leave a comment

Massachusetts is marking 25 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks with a statewide moment of silence on Friday and special tributes that include illuminating Boston buildings in remembrance of the tragedy. Gov. Maura Healey said she is directing flags in the state to be lowered to half-staff. She’s also “calling on residents, schools, businesses and organizations to observe a statewide moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. on Friday, September 11, marking the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.” Reading of the names After the moment of silence, there will be a reading of the names on the State House front steps of the 206 people from Massachusetts who were killed in the attacks.  You can watch it live on CBS News Boston.      

The two planes that terrorists hijacked and flew into the World Trade Center, American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175, both took off from Logan Airport in Boston. Madeline Amy Sweeney Award Every year on 9/11, the Madeline “Amy” Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery is awarded inside the State House to a local resident. Last year’s recipients were Jesse Winocour and Jason Papa, two Everett Department of Public Works employees who rushed into a burning home to save 14 people from a fire. Sweeney was a flight attendant from Acton working on Flight 11. She contacted the airline’s ground crew with information about the hijackers just minutes before the plane crashed into the World Trade Center. Tribute in Light The State House will be lit up with red, white and blue colors on the evening of 9/11. 

Several other Boston landmarks will be lit up in “Memorial Blue” as part of a worldwide “Tribute in Light” that represents the clear blue sky over New York City on the morning of 9/11. Participating buildings include the JFK Presidential Library, the Prudential Tower, Fenway Park, South Station Tower, The Hub on Causeway, the Hynes Convention Center, State Street – One Congress and the old Hancock Building. A 9/11 tribute featuring twin light beams on the summit of Mount Washington may also be visible in parts of Massachusetts, organizers say.  Boston 9/11 events At 11 a.m., there will be a rededication of the 9/11 memorial at Boston’s Logan Airport.

A wreath-laying for families who lost loved ones in the attacks will be held at Boston Public Garden at 1 p.m. in the 9/11 Garden of Remembrance.  The American Red Cross is hosting its annual Day of Remembrance blood drive all day at Fenway Park.  At 3:30 p.m. in Ashburton Park at the State House, the annual Massachusetts Fallen Firefighters Memorial ceremony will honor the first responders who gave their lives trying to help others in the attacks. 

Source: 25 years after 9/11, Massachusetts to mark attacks with statewide moment of silence and “Tribute in Light” – CBS Boston

For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.
1 Corinthians 2:2

A House Divided

Division within the church is one of the enemy’s greatest tools because it weakens unity, damages witness, and distracts believers from the mission of Christ. I personally believe that…

Keep reading

Ecclesiastes 3:1

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: In the Book of Ecclesiastes verse 3:1, we’re reminded that life moves in seasons, every…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Arizona’s rare cougar shadow returns in September; here’s the best time to see it

Posted on by Leave a comment

One of Arizona’s most stunning natural phenomena is returning — and you’ll want to snag the best seat in the house to experience it one more time this year. From Sept. 13-19, visitors and residents can see the iconic “Cougar Shadow” sprawl across the Superstition Mountains. The majestic creature forms when the setting sun creates a silhouette of a crouching cougar across the mountain’s western face, according to Zoey Knoebel with VisitMesa.

The gorgeous sight is only visible for one week each fall and spring. Prime time viewing to see the cougar is around 6-6:30 p.m., as it begins to take shape 30 minutes before sunset. Don’t be late — the cougar is only visible for 20-30 minutes, depending on the weather. One of the best viewpoints to see the cougar is near Superstition Boulevard and Goldfield Road in Apache Junction. From this point, spectators may get a glimpse of the shadow slowly forming across the mountainside. The phenomenon attracts hundreds of locals and visitors each year. However, if you miss out on the fall window, you won’t be able to see it until spring 2027.

Source: Arizona’s rare cougar shadow returns in September; here’s the best time to see it

Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.
Romans 13:7

Hosea 4:6

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, that you may be no priest to me. Because you have forgotten your…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

4,300-year-old tomb of judge and his father discovered in Egypt: “Exceptionally well-preserved”

Posted on by Leave a comment

An Egyptian-Spanish archaeological mission has uncovered a 4,300-year-old tomb near Cairo belonging to an ancient judge and his father, local authorities said. The tomb was found at Saqqara, a sprawling necropolis south of the capital, and dates back to the reign of Pharaoh Djedkare Isesi, one of the most influential rulers of Egypt’s Fifth Dynasty who oversaw a period of administrative reform in the 24th century B.C., the Egyptian tourism and antiquities ministry said.

It was built for Yunmen, a high-ranking official whose duties included listening to the appeals of the kingdom’s subjects and weighing their complaints before the state. Amr al-Tayeb, director of the Saqqara archaeological site, told AFP that Yunmen’s duties “align with the ancient Egyptian concept of Maat,” the goddess and principle of truth, justice and social order. The find was discovered during this summer’s excavation season in the Mariette Cemetery area of northern Saqqara, as part of a long-running joint project by the Autonomous University of Barcelona and Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities.

The newly discovered mastaba, a flat-roofed tomb typically built for elite officials, contains two funerary chapels: one for Yunmen and the other for his father, Ity, a senior scribe responsible for overseeing agricultural lands and offerings. Yunmen’s chapel is adorned with finely carved reliefs depicting farmers at work, servants carrying offerings and scenes associated with funeral rites. Many of the paintings have retained their original colors despite spending more than 40 centuries buried beneath the desert sands, the ministry said.

“It features exceptionally well-preserved scenes,” the ministry said on social media, while posting several images of the site. Archaeologists also uncovered an ornate facade covered with funeral inscriptions, alongside formal depictions of the tomb’s owner. In the neighboring chapel, dedicated to Ity, traces of painted offering scenes survive, alongside a false door, a symbolic gateway through which the dead were believed to receive sustenance from the living. The discovery comes as Egypt seeks to promote new archaeological finds to support tourism, a key source of foreign currency for the country.

In November, Egypt’s government hosted dozens of foreign leaders and dignitaries as it held an official opening ceremony for the Grand Egyptian Museum, a $1 billion project decades in the making. The plan was originally for the museum to open in 2010, but a series of events, including financial crises, political uprisings, the COVID-19 pandemic and regional wars, delayed the curtain raising.

Source: 4,300-year-old tomb of judge and his father discovered in Egypt: “Exceptionally well-preserved” – CBS News

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9

The News Part 2

Dear Heavenly Father, as I enter this day please give me the words that I need to share who you are and help me present your love…

Keep reading

Daily Bread; Psalm 91:4

Daily Verse He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. Psalm 91:4 ESV…

Keep reading

The News Part 1

Dear Heavenly Father, as this is read give understanding and conviction to those reading this. May there be understanding where there needs to be understanding and conviction…

Keep reading

Amos 3:7

 “For the Lord God does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets. This verse reveals that God does not act without warning His people first. The…

Keep reading

Isaiah 11:2

And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

How teachers are keeping the lessons of 9/11 alive for a new generation of students

Posted on by Leave a comment
Empty elementary classroom with colorful learning displays and arranged desks

In West Des Moines, Iowa, roughly 1,100 miles from Ground Zero, history teacher Ann Krois is tackling one of the most defining moments of the past half-century. “Teaching students about 9/11 is critical,” Krois told CBS News. “I want them to understand what their previous generation experienced, that trauma, and how an event like that brought millions of people, not even just in the United States, but globally, together.”

Krois was in the third grade and had never even seen a skyscraper when terrorists turned four airplanes into weapons, killing almost 3,000 innocent people — a catastrophe that’s now history class for eleventh graders like Fitz Carpenter. “I actually learned some new stuff. I didn’t know how many people were evacuated on the boats,” Carpenter said. To develop her lesson plan, Krois joined a group of teachers from all over the country this summer at New York City’s 9/11 Memorial and Museum. It’s part of a program designed to teach teachers what happened at Ground Zero from those who were there.

That includes people like retired firefighter Bill Spade, the sole survivor of Staten Island’s elite Rescue 5. He was one of the last men to evacuate the north tower before it collapsed. “I can see the smoke coming from that first tower, that North Tower,” Spade said at one of the sessions for educators. “I hear the chief say, ‘We need four more rescues here and we have jumpers.'” In Alabama, Chris Theilacker carries a different perspective. Just age 25 on Sept. 11, 2001, the young Army officer deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan following the attacks. Today, he’s a high school teacher, passing along lessons of the global war on terror and of the resilience that followed. “It’s one of those watershed moments in U.S. history,” Theilacker said.

“It must be taught, the patriotic side of it, the messy side of it. It’s a great rallying moment for what we can achieve when we decide to work together.” Krois believes that every teacher in the U.S. should be required to talk about 9/11. “I know it’s hard to try to teach on September 11th to students, because, you know, some of them, it’s just their second week of school. But at some point, it definitely needs to be every state’s standard,” Krois said.

Source: How teachers are keeping the lessons of 9/11 alive for a new generation of students – CBS News

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.
Colossians 3:12

The King is Coming

They shouted “Hosanna” like a King was arriving, but didn’t realize a Savior was surrendering. Don’t just celebrate Jesus for what you want Him to do, honor Him for…

Keep reading

Break Free and Run the Race

Break free from sin, and run your race like it matters. We must understand, getting rid of our anchors will still keep us in the race. ⚓️ 📖Therefore, since…

Keep reading

Letting God Take the Lead

God doesn’t guide the loud, the proud, or the self-sufficient, He leads the humble who are willing to follow. Lay down your pride, and watch how clearly His path…

Keep reading

Primary Elections; May 19, 2026

Today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, is a major primary election day in six states: Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. These are mostly partisan primaries (Democratic and Republican)…

Keep reading

What does Hosanna Mean?

Hosanna: Getting to Know Him Do you want eternal life? Do you want to enter heaven through the only guide that can help you navigate your way there? To…

Keep reading

Matthew 25:21

“His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the…

Keep reading

2 Peter 2:1-3

But false prophets also arose among the people, as false teachers will also be among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, denying even the Master who bought…

Keep reading

Recognizing the Trap of Offense

A wounded heart builds walls higher than pride ever could, harder to win back than a fortified city. Choose your words carefully, because one broken relationship can become a…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Maryland invests $11 million to expand bike, pedestrian and trail infrastructure

Posted on by Leave a comment
Wooden footbridge crossing a stream on a forest trail

Maryland is investing more than $11 million in grants to expand bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure across the state. The Maryland Department of Transportation says the funding will support nearly 25 projects aimed at improving safety and accessibility. The projects include Safe Routes to School improvements, bikeway connections and trail upgrades. Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County and Frederick County are among the areas that will see improvements.

MDOT says the goal is to improve safety, boost economic development and create a more connected and accessible transportation system across Maryland. “With these newly funded bicycle, pedestrian and trail projects, Marylanders will have more options to commute, exercise and get to school safely and efficiently,” Maryland Transportation Secretary Katie Thomson said. “Creating new paths and linking others together are key components of Maryland’s transportation future, and this investment shows our dedication to expanding our statewide trail network, enhancing sustainability and providing those who walk, bike and roll with greater choices.”

The Fiscal Year 2027 grants include $9.3 million in federal funding for 12 projects through the Transportation Alternatives Program and Recreational Trails Program, along with $2 million in state funding for 12 projects through MDOT’s Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program.

Recreational Trails Program

The state is providing $2.8 million through the Recreational Trails Program for six projects, including:

  • Trail bridge replacements in state forests in Allegany and Garrett counties.
  • Boardwalk and trail rehabilitation in Loch Lynn Heights in Garrett County, as well as Kent and Montgomery counties.
  • New single-track trails at Rocky Gap State Park in Allegany County.

Transportation Alternatives Program

The state is providing $6.5 million through the Transportation Alternatives Program for six projects, including:

  • Safe Routes to School infrastructure improvements in Williamsport and Smithsburg in Washington County.
  • Repair and rehabilitation of a 20-mile stretch of the C&O Canal towpath in Montgomery and Washington counties.
  • New active transportation facilities in Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County and Montgomery County.

Bikeways grants

This year’s $2 million in Bikeways grants includes:

  • Seven design projects in Brunswick, Catonsville, Chestertown, Laurel, North East, Port Deposit and Snow Hill. The projects will improve access to parks, schools, trails, senior living communities, historic main streets and commercial districts.
  • Three minor retrofit projects in Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County and Montgomery County. The projects will add wayfinding from bike paths to major destinations, improve safety through low-cost enhancements and expand shared micromobility.
  • Two construction projects in Edmonston and La Plata. The projects will fill missing trail connections and extend a new shared-use path.

Source: Maryland invests $11 million to expand bike, pedestrian and trail infrastructure – CBS Baltimore

But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot has held fast to His steps; I have kept His way and not turned aside.
Job 23:10-11

❤️The Heart of Worship🛐

What the world calls waste, Jesus calls worship, your sacrifice for Him is never overlooked. Bold, extravagant faith stands out in a culture that misunderstands true devotion.…

Keep reading

Organ Harvesting in China

You may think you know about the illegal world of organ harvesting, but there’s an even a darker side to this practice than merely procuring an organ…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

25 years after Sept. 11 attacks, Taliban rules Afghanistan again, but now with $7 billion in U.S. firepower

Posted on by Leave a comment

As Americans reflect this week on the 25 years that have passed since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, CBS News has returned to Afghanistan, where the war those attacks triggered ended five years ago with the Taliban’s stunning return to power.  When the last U.S. and allied soldiers left after a brutal two-decade war, the Taliban’s fighters seized billions of dollars worth of American-purchased military hardware.

President Trump, whose first administration negotiated the deal to end the war with the Taliban, has accused the Biden administration of “totally botching” the withdrawal. Five years later, the hardware of America’s longest-ever war is still easy to spot on the streets of Kabul. Taliban fighters patrol in armored vehicles once supplied to Afghan forces, wearing American tactical gear and carrying American weapons.

CBS News saw one Humvee in the Afghan capital still adorned with a faded Green Bay Packers decal — a remnant from its past operators.  President Trump has been fiercely critical of the former Biden administration, accusing his predecessor of allowing the U.S. military to abandon billions of dollars in military hardware. Mr. Trump has demanded that the Taliban hand it back. But the Taliban has proudly shown off its American-funded arsenal, even staging military parades through Kabul’s streets.

Pentagon figures released last year show some $7 billion in hardware and weaponry fell into the group’s hands when the Afghan National Army collapsed. Shortly after the 2021 withdrawal, CBS News filmed as “Badri 313,” an elite Taliban special forces battalion, patrolled in their American vehicles, American commando gear and with their American weapons. Asked about President Trump’s determination to reclaim the equipment, Taliban Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi told CBS News the hardware now belongs to “the state of Afghanistan, and we are not in the business of doing transactions and deals on the assets of the state of Afghanistan.”

When it was pointed out that American taxpayers purchased the equipment, Balkhi said: “The Americans did a lot of things. Americans killed a lot of people, destroyed the majority of the country. Should they not be paying for that first?” The Taliban waged a vicious insurgency during a war that killed more than 2,400 U.S. service members and tens of thousands of innocent Afghans.  But critics of the Biden administration’s handling of the U.S. withdrawal say it’s allowed the Taliban to transform from insurgents into a state military force armed with billions of dollars in American-funded firepower. 

They have used those weapons to impose a draconian interpretation of Islamic rule on Afghanistan’s people, almost completely depriving women and girls of the right to work and study, and restricting life for everyone in the country in ways that some analysts say are even harsher than during the group’s previous reign.  Biden has offered little public commentary on the Afghanistan withdrawal, but he said in September 2021, a month after the Taliban took back control, that he “was not going to extend this ‘forever war,’ and I was not extending a ‘forever exit.'”

“If anything, the developments of the past week reinforce that ending U.S. military involvement in Afghanistan now was the right decision,” said the then-president in August 2021, as the Taliban reasserted their rule 20 years after being ousted by the U.S.-led military campaign. “American troops cannot and should not be fighting in a war and dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves.” In 2023, the Biden White House released a 12-page summary of a classified review of the Afghanistan exit that largely blamed the Trump administration for the deal it struck with the Taliban to withdraw U.S. forces from the country by May 2021. 

The so-called Doha Agreement brokered by the first Trump administration laid out a series of conditions for the Taliban to fulfill in order for U.S. forces to leave. Another report partially declassified and released by the State Department in 2023 faulted both the Trump and Biden administrations for “insufficient” planning surrounding the withdrawal.

Source: 25 years after Sept. 11 attacks, Taliban rules Afghanistan again, but now with $7 billion in U.S. firepower – CBS News

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 3:16

Matthew 1:22-23

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” This verse…

Keep reading

Romans 12:19

 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” This verse teaches believers not to…

Keep reading

Guarding Your Heart

Your life is moving in the direction of your heart, whether you realize it or not. What you allow in today will shape who you become tomorrow. Keep your…

Keep reading

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.