westernjournal--2020-05-30--Unarmed Alaskan Police Force Reconsidering Policy After Armed Citizen Saves Officers from Shooter

It ’ s a frequent joke about British police that they don ’ t carry firearms .
It seems kind of counterintuitive , particularly since police , you know , often deal with violent people who may or may not have firearms .
However , the fact that British bobbies don ’ t carry guns is one of the most British things ever .
What can you say about a country that prefers tea to coffee and once thought Depeche Mode was pretty hardcore ?
Of course the police don ’ t carry firearms .
Heck , I wouldn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those rubber gag models you can get at Party City .
Alaska is a bit different .
In fact , it ’ s pretty much the opposite of the United Kingdom .
It ’ s the great frozen north .
The setting of “ Call of the Wild.
” The last great American frontier .
I picture your average Alaskan law enforcement officer as the kind of guy with huge muscles and an unkempt beard , surviving on beef jerky and coffee so strong it ’ d be illegal in the lower 48 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ F-150 and flies a dilapidated old Cessna between towns separated by glaciers .
Oh , and he has two Glocks , one for each hip .
He was thinking of a third with a shoulder holster but his wife talked him out of it .
So imagine my surprise when I found out police officers in the village of Kwethluk are totally unarmed and almost had a mass shooting on their hands — until an armed citizen stopped the alleged shooter .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a small community in the far west of the state , pretty far away from almost anything — including backup help from major cities such as Anchorage and Juneau .
Granted , not much happens in a village of less than a thousand people .
That said , it can happen , which is why you give police officers guns .
According to Alaska Public Media , Kwethluk was almost the scene of a mass murder May 23 .
The only reason no one was killed was that a resident — not a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put a stop to the shooter ’ s plans .
“ According to state troopers , a 19-year-old man , Brian Nicolai , broke into the village public safety building dressed for combat .
He staged rifles inside , and activated the fire alert system .
When village police officers responded , the officers say that Nicolai shot at them .
But no one was hurt , largely thanks to an armed resident who got Nicolai to give up his weapon and lie on the ground , ” Alaska Public Media reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — debating — whether village police officers ought to carry firearms .
In fact , the only reason police officers aren ’ t dead is that the mass shooter was completely inept .
Village Police Officer Tiger Lee was one of the first to respond when Nicolai apparently pulled the fire alarm at the village public safety building .
When he responded , Nicolai tried to shoot him with a rifle .
“ I believe he wasn ’ t aware that the rifle was empty , and I could have been shot , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that , but Nicolai eventually figured out how to load the rifle , and Lee hid behind a shipping container as backup began to show up .
Thankfully , someone finally got Nicolai to surrender .
It wasn ’ t a police officer .
RELATED : Schiff : If Trump Is n't Removed , He Could Trade Alaska to Russia in Exchange for Election Help “ That resident was Casey Thompson , according to the trooper ’ s report .
Thompson , armed with a rifle , was able to get the shooter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , ” Alaska Public Radio reported .
To be fair , one of the reasons Kwethluk VPOs don ’ t have guns is that training costs money .
That ’ s a problem that could be solved , however , especially in the wake of an incident like this .
It won ’ t happen , though , when officials are somehow still not sure they need the guns .
Take Deputy Chief David Berezkin , who seems to be of two minds on the subject .
“ Sometimes that show of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regarding the deterrent effect of guns .
But then , just a few lines later , we get this : “ But Berezkin is not rushing to change the way things are in Kwethluk .
He said that incidents involving guns , like the one on Saturday , are rare.
” “ We don ’ t deal with this every day , you know ?
” he said .
Yes , well , here ’ s the thing : Most people who buy guns for personal protection will never have to use them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brian Nicolai comes across their path — the gun has served its purpose .
In this case , a Brian Nicolai almost became a mass shooter , according to police .
Thankfully , an armed citizen made sure his plans were thwarted .
For his part , Lee believes the VPOs need guns .
“ If we had access to firearms , we ’ d be able to handle more of these scenarios on our own , ” Lee said .
Agreed .
And it ’ s not just that .
This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , England .
Police officers need guns , period .
They need the funding and they need the training .
So maybe they won ’ t have the two Glocks and the Cessna .
They ’ ll still have the necessary tools to deal with a mass shooter — and that ’ s what ’ s important .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

It’s a frequent joke about British police that they don’t carry firearms. It seems kind of counterintuitive, particularly since police, you know, often deal with violent people who may or may not have firearms.
However, the fact that British bobbies don’t carry guns is one of the most British things ever. What can you say about a country that prefers tea to coffee and once thought Depeche Mode was pretty hardcore? Of course the police don’t carry firearms. Heck, I wouldn’t be surprised if their nightsticks were those rubber gag models you can get at Party City.
Alaska is a bit different. In fact, it’s pretty much the opposite of the United Kingdom. It’s the great frozen north. The setting of “Call of the Wild.” The last great American frontier.
I picture your average Alaskan law enforcement officer as the kind of guy with huge muscles and an unkempt beard, surviving on beef jerky and coffee so strong it’d be illegal in the lower 48. He probably drives a 1989 Ford F-150 and flies a dilapidated old Cessna between towns separated by glaciers. Oh, and he has two Glocks, one for each hip. He was thinking of a third with a shoulder holster but his wife talked him out of it.
So imagine my surprise when I found out police officers in the village of Kwethluk are totally unarmed and almost had a mass shooting on their hands — until an armed citizen stopped the alleged shooter.
Kwethluk is a small community in the far west of the state, pretty far away from almost anything — including backup help from major cities such as Anchorage and Juneau. Granted, not much happens in a village of less than a thousand people.
That said, it can happen, which is why you give police officers guns.
According to Alaska Public Media, Kwethluk was almost the scene of a mass murder May 23. The only reason no one was killed was that a resident — not a police officer — was armed and able to put a stop to the shooter’s plans.
“According to state troopers, a 19-year-old man, Brian Nicolai, broke into the village public safety building dressed for combat. He staged rifles inside, and activated the fire alert system. When village police officers responded, the officers say that Nicolai shot at them. But no one was hurt, largely thanks to an armed resident who got Nicolai to give up his weapon and lie on the ground,” Alaska Public Media reported.
Do you think police officers should carry guns? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (1092 Votes) No: 1% (7 Votes)
So now, Kwethluk is debating — debating — whether village police officers ought to carry firearms.
In fact, the only reason police officers aren’t dead is that the mass shooter was completely inept. Village Police Officer Tiger Lee was one of the first to respond when Nicolai apparently pulled the fire alarm at the village public safety building. When he responded, Nicolai tried to shoot him with a rifle.
“I believe he wasn’t aware that the rifle was empty, and I could have been shot,” Lee said.
Thank God for that, but Nicolai eventually figured out how to load the rifle, and Lee hid behind a shipping container as backup began to show up.
Thankfully, someone finally got Nicolai to surrender. It wasn’t a police officer.
“That resident was Casey Thompson, according to the trooper’s report. Thompson, armed with a rifle, was able to get the shooter to drop his weapon, the report said,” Alaska Public Radio reported.
To be fair, one of the reasons Kwethluk VPOs don’t have guns is that training costs money. That’s a problem that could be solved, however, especially in the wake of an incident like this.
It won’t happen, though, when officials are somehow still not sure they need the guns. Take Deputy Chief David Berezkin, who seems to be of two minds on the subject.
“Sometimes that show of force helps,” he said, regarding the deterrent effect of guns.
But then, just a few lines later, we get this: “But Berezkin is not rushing to change the way things are in Kwethluk. He said that incidents involving guns, like the one on Saturday, are rare.”
“We don’t deal with this every day, you know?” he said.
Yes, well, here’s the thing: Most people who buy guns for personal protection will never have to use them. If they do — if a Brian Nicolai comes across their path — the gun has served its purpose.
In this case, a Brian Nicolai almost became a mass shooter, according to police. Thankfully, an armed citizen made sure his plans were thwarted.
For his part, Lee believes the VPOs need guns.
“If we had access to firearms, we’d be able to handle more of these scenarios on our own,” Lee said.
Agreed. And it’s not just that. This is Alaska. It’s not Devonshire, England. Police officers need guns, period. They need the funding and they need the training.
So maybe they won’t have the two Glocks and the Cessna. They’ll still have the necessary tools to deal with a mass shooter — and that’s what’s important.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Man Dies with Whopping .55 Blood Alcohol Level, Was Reportedly Listed as a COVID Fatality

The state of Colorado reportedly added a man who died of acute alcohol poisoning to its coronavirus death toll even before the county coroner could sign his death certificate .
Police in Cortez , Colorado , found Sebastian Yellow dead in Cortez City Park on the morning of May 4 , according to KCNC-TV .
Montezuma County Coroner George Deavers found that Yellow ’ s blood alcohol content measured at .55 , so he determined that his death was caused by acute alcohol poisoning .
“ It was almost double what the minimum lethal amount was in the state , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Yellow tested positive for COVID-19 , so the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment categorized his death as one caused by the novel coronavirus , according to Deavers .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise “ I can see no reason for this , ” Deavers told KCNC-TV , adding that he hadn ’ t even gotten to sign the death certificate before the conclusion was made .
“ It wasn ’ t COVID , it was alcohol toxicity , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did have COVID but that is not what took his life.
” This case is just one of many instances that caused Colorado to update its coronavirus death toll , saying that 272 fewer people than originally reported had died from COVID-19 .
The CDPHE changed the statistics on May 15 .
As of Saturday , the agency ’ s “ case data ” website said 1,181 people had died “ from COVID-19 ” and 1,436 people had died “ among people with COVID-19.
” Along with the statistics change , the CDPHE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report the number of deaths in the two separate categories .
“ We have been reporting at the state , deaths among people who had COVID-19 at the time of death and the cause of that death may or not have been COVID-19 , ” Dr. Eric France , the agency ’ s chief medical officer , told KDVR at the time .
The discrepancy also came in part because of how the state reports statistics to the federal National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System , according to France .
“ Having these two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confusion and we apologize for that , ” state epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy said .
The state added that this change “ does not unilaterally change information on death certificates and does not question or try to change a physician ’ s diagnosis or causes-of-death determination.
” Colorado Gov .
Jared Polis ’ office released a statement earlier this month addressing the confusion and changes .
“ The Governor applauds efforts to ensure that we are as transparent as possible with our reporting and therefore fully supports efforts by CDPHE to specify how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and not just specific to CDC guidelines that include people who died with Coronavirus but not necessarily from it .
What we are seeing today is a reflection of that , ” the statement said .
Colorado is not the only state that has had to change its coronavirus death statistics .
Pennsylvania Health Department officials removed over 200 probable deaths from their official tally on April 23 in what they said was an effort to be transparent after state coroners pointed to inconsistencies with the state ’ s death counts and what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The state of Colorado reportedly added a man who died of acute alcohol poisoning to its coronavirus death toll even before the county coroner could sign his death certificate.
Police in Cortez, Colorado, found Sebastian Yellow dead in Cortez City Park on the morning of May 4, according to KCNC-TV.
Montezuma County Coroner George Deavers found that Yellow’s blood alcohol content measured at .55, so he determined that his death was caused by acute alcohol poisoning.
“It was almost double what the minimum lethal amount was in the state,” Deavers said.
Following his death, Yellow tested positive for COVID-19, so the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment categorized his death as one caused by the novel coronavirus, according to Deavers.
“I can see no reason for this,” Deavers told KCNC-TV, adding that he hadn’t even gotten to sign the death certificate before the conclusion was made.
What killed Sebastian Yellow? Coroner says the man drank himself to death with .550 blood alcohol reading-‘ethanol toxicity’ reads death certificate. But @CDPHE has categorized it as a #COVID19 death, raising many questions. Our @CBSDenver report:https://t.co/w5dHyT24wk pic.twitter.com/viEClhYeBX — Brian Maass (@Briancbs4) May 15, 2020
“It wasn’t COVID, it was alcohol toxicity,” Deavers said.
Do you think more states have made this mistake? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (704 Votes) No: 0% (3 Votes)
“Yes, he did have COVID but that is not what took his life.”
This case is just one of many instances that caused Colorado to update its coronavirus death toll, saying that 272 fewer people than originally reported had died from COVID-19.
The CDPHE changed the statistics on May 15.
As of Saturday, the agency’s “case data” website said 1,181 people had died “from COVID-19” and 1,436 people had died “among people with COVID-19.”
Along with the statistics change, the CDPHE said starting May 15, it would report the number of deaths in the two separate categories.
“We have been reporting at the state, deaths among people who had COVID-19 at the time of death and the cause of that death may or not have been COVID-19,” Dr. Eric France, the agency’s chief medical officer, told KDVR at the time.
The discrepancy also came in part because of how the state reports statistics to the federal National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, according to France.
“Having these two systems in place has potentially created some confusion and we apologize for that,” state epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy said.
The state added that this change “does not unilaterally change information on death certificates and does not question or try to change a physician’s diagnosis or causes-of-death determination.”
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis’ office released a statement earlier this month addressing the confusion and changes.
“The Governor applauds efforts to ensure that we are as transparent as possible with our reporting and therefore fully supports efforts by CDPHE to specify how many deaths are specifically due to COVID-19 and not just specific to CDC guidelines that include people who died with Coronavirus but not necessarily from it. What we are seeing today is a reflection of that,” the statement said.
Colorado is not the only state that has had to change its coronavirus death statistics.
Pennsylvania Health Department officials removed over 200 probable deaths from their official tally on April 23 in what they said was an effort to be transparent after state coroners pointed to inconsistencies with the state’s death counts and what they had recorded.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Mom Caught on Video Pushing Autistic Son into Canal an Hour Before Allegedly Murdering Him

A video of a Miami woman who has been charged with murder in her autistic son ’ s death has surfaced showing what police say was her first attempt to kill the child .
Patricia Ripley faces charges of attempted first-degree murder , premeditated murder and first-degree murder of her 9-year-old son Alejandro .
In a video obtained by Univision , a woman identified as Ripley is seen walking a child to the bank of a canal in suburban West Kendall and then forcefully shoving him into the water .
The woman runs off before returning about 20 seconds later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the water , and they rescued him .
WARNING : The following video is disturbing .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise Authorities said this was Ripley ’ s first attempt to kill her son on May 21 , the Miami Herald reported Monday .
Alejandro was led to a different canal an hour later where he died , Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle told reporters .
The medical examiner ’ s office has ruled the cause of his death as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that two black men had kidnapped her son after a light blue car ran her off the road near a Home Depot .
Authorities issued an Amber alert for Alejandro but began to get suspicious when Ripley gave different accounts of what happened .
The boy ’ s body was found the following morning in a canal near a golf and country club about four miles from where the alleged abduction took place .
However , security camera footage at the Home Depot from the night before showed Ripley sitting in her car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police .
After hours of interrogation , Ripley confessed that she made up the kidnapping story and led Alejandro to the canal where he drowned .
She told police that “ he ’ s going to be in a better place.
” A law enforcement officer told WFOR-TV in Miami that Ripley confessed to thinking about killing her autistic son for a while because he was more difficult to control physically as he got older .
In recent months , the mother said she had been overwhelmed caring for her son in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Her attorney , Nelson Rodriguez-Varela , said he will discuss all of the evidence at another time when Ripley has “ her day in court.
” “ At this time , we ’ re assembling a legal team in order to make sure that her rights are respected and she has the opportunity to vindicate her good name , ” Rodriguez-Varela said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A video of a Miami woman who has been charged with murder in her autistic son’s death has surfaced showing what police say was her first attempt to kill the child.
Patricia Ripley faces charges of attempted first-degree murder, premeditated murder and first-degree murder of her 9-year-old son Alejandro.
In a video obtained by Univision, a woman identified as Ripley is seen walking a child to the bank of a canal in suburban West Kendall and then forcefully shoving him into the water.
The woman runs off before returning about 20 seconds later with a bystander who saw the boy in the water, and they rescued him.
WARNING: The following video is disturbing.
Authorities said this was Ripley’s first attempt to kill her son on May 21, the Miami Herald reported Monday.
Alejandro was led to a different canal an hour later where he died, Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle told reporters.
The medical examiner’s office has ruled the cause of his death as drowning.
Ripley originally told Miami-Dade police that two black men had kidnapped her son after a light blue car ran her off the road near a Home Depot.
Authorities issued an Amber alert for Alejandro but began to get suspicious when Ripley gave different accounts of what happened.
His mother’s story was considered suspect from the start.
Now, arrest details show- it gets even worse (if that’s possible).
Patricia Ripley tried *twice* to drown her son.
The 1st time, witnesses rescued him.
The 2nd time, she succeeded.@WPLGLocal10 https://t.co/VstsrwKtWm pic.twitter.com/BEx6oBaVds — Glenna Milberg (@GlennaWPLG) May 23, 2020
The boy’s body was found the following morning in a canal near a golf and country club about four miles from where the alleged abduction took place.
However, security camera footage at the Home Depot from the night before showed Ripley sitting in her car without Alejandro for 20 minutes before calling the police.
After hours of interrogation, Ripley confessed that she made up the kidnapping story and led Alejandro to the canal where he drowned.
She told police that “he’s going to be in a better place.”
UPDATE: Patricia Ripley, the West Kendall mother who initially claimed her severely autistic 9-year-old son had been kidnapped, ultimately admitted she was to blame for the child’s death at a canal and “he’s going to be in a better place” police said. https://t.co/InqE1m0tIg — Miami Herald (@MiamiHerald) May 23, 2020
A law enforcement officer told WFOR-TV in Miami that Ripley confessed to thinking about killing her autistic son for a while because he was more difficult to control physically as he got older.
In recent months, the mother said she had been overwhelmed caring for her son in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
Her attorney, Nelson Rodriguez-Varela, said he will discuss all of the evidence at another time when Ripley has “her day in court.”
“At this time, we’re assembling a legal team in order to make sure that her rights are respected and she has the opportunity to vindicate her good name,” Rodriguez-Varela said.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Surrounded by Violent Mob, Cop Barely Escapes with a Little Help

As violence seethed through several American cities on Friday , police found themselves under attack , even hundreds of miles away from Minneapolis , where initial protests over the death of George Floyd have morphed into riots .
In Los Angeles , KTLA tweeted video Friday revealing one law enforcement officer ’ s fate while trying to detain an individual .
The video shows a crowd of people closing in on the police officer , who repeatedly battles his way free .
At one point in the video , one man appears to hit the officer with the sign he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise The video shows the man talking with the officer , appearing to restrain him from continued pursuit and then walking away with him .
No arrests were made in the incident , according to KTLA .
The Los Angeles Police Department reported two officers were injured Friday , but it was not clear whether either of them was the officer in the video .
Police declared an unlawful assembly in the area where the incident took place and called for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Says Military on Alert , Ready for Rapid Deployment to Riot-Ravaged Cities ; White House Denies LA was not the only major city where police were the targets of violence .
In New York City , a Molotov cocktail was thrown through the window of a police car outside of Brooklyn ’ s 88th Precinct , according to the New York Post .
The streets were filled with more than 3,000 demonstrators , WABC reported .
WARNING : The following video contains vulgar language that some viewers may find disturbing .
Rioters tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were forced back by police .
NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said Saturday that “ countless ” officers were hurt and many were still in the hospital , according to WNYW .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

As violence seethed through several American cities on Friday, police found themselves under attack, even hundreds of miles away from Minneapolis, where initial protests over the death of George Floyd have morphed into riots.
In Los Angeles, KTLA tweeted video Friday revealing one law enforcement officer’s fate while trying to detain an individual.
The video shows a crowd of people closing in on the police officer, who repeatedly battles his way free.
At one point in the video, one man appears to hit the officer with the sign he had been carrying.
LAPD seen trying to detain protesters after squad car windows smashed, officer attacked downtown https://t.co/uHrpaRp3xm pic.twitter.com/gmxNAdO1uM — KTLA (@KTLA) May 30, 2020
Eventually, a man wearing a white cap jumps into the fray.
The video shows the man talking with the officer, appearing to restrain him from continued pursuit and then walking away with him. No arrests were made in the incident, according to KTLA.
Do cities need to do a better job of cracking down on these rioters? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (1071 Votes) No: 0% (5 Votes)
The Los Angeles Police Department reported two officers were injured Friday, but it was not clear whether either of them was the officer in the video.
Police declared an unlawful assembly in the area where the incident took place and called for demonstrators to disperse.
We have declared an unlawful assembly throughout Downtown LA.
From the 10 Fwy to the 101 & the 110 Fwy to Alameda—This is being made following repeated acts of violence & property damage. Residents should stay inside—Business should close—Those on the street are to leave the area — LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) May 30, 2020
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti tweeted his support for peaceful protesters:
I believe in our city. L.A. is strong enough to stand for justice and walk in love. We respect every Angeleno’s right to protest, but violence and vandalism hurts all. Let’s remember why we march, protect each other, and bring a peaceful end to a painful night. — MayorOfLA (@MayorOfLA) May 30, 2020
LA was not the only major city where police were the targets of violence.
In New York City, a Molotov cocktail was thrown through the window of a police car outside of Brooklyn’s 88th Precinct, according to the New York Post.
The streets were filled with more than 3,000 demonstrators, WABC reported.
Law enforcement sources: Protest in honor of #GeorgeFloyd began at Barclays, making its way to the 79th & 88th precinct. Roughly 150-200 arrests, NYPD vehicles set on fire, protestors managed to break into the @NYPD79Pct and were quickly arrested. Dozen officers injured. @ABC7NY https://t.co/g0QTY8oYLz — Morena Basteiro (@morenabasteiro) May 30, 2020
WARNING: The following video contains vulgar language that some viewers may find disturbing.
BREAKING: Protestors in Brooklyn set an NYPD vehicle on fire@PIX11News pic.twitter.com/BNkximLJa6 — Cristian Benavides (@cbenavidesTV) May 30, 2020
Rioters were throwing cement at the NYPD as they were driving through, so an officer swung open his down and smacked one guy as he drove by: pic.twitter.com/y1eql6U9Lj — Caleb Hull (@CalebJHull) May 30, 2020
Rioters tried to enter the 79th Precinct, but were forced back by police.
NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said Saturday that “countless” officers were hurt and many were still in the hospital, according to WNYW.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Mayor Jumps Into Coffin, Plays Dead After Police Catch Him Breaking Lockdown Rules

As diligence goes , the mayor of one small town in Peru would probably get a C , as in coffin .
Perhaps for those who grade on creativity , he might get an A , as in arrested , despite his unique scheme to evade being taken into custody .
Jaime Rolando Urbina Torres , the mayor of the community of Tantara in Peru , has not been popular with the people there because of his laxity in addressing lockdown rules to contain the coronavirus .
And so it was recently that when Peruvian police arrived to arrest him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in violation of social distancing rules , he hopped in a coffin and played dead , hoping to avoid arrest , according to the U.K. ’ s Evening Standard .
Police reported that the mayor ’ s drinking buddies hid in drawers , although no detail was given to explain why a coffin and drawers happened to be nearby .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise A clip from a Spanish-language report on YouTube shows images of Torres before hiding in the coffin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be dead .
He was detained for allegedly breaking curfew and social distancing orders and was supposedly drunk when arrested .
Tantara , like the rest of Peru , was supposed to be locked down as of mid-March , according to the national government ’ s orders .
But Torres has been upbraided by local citizens for a lackluster performance of his duties , according to the U.K. Daily Mail .
During an early May town meeting , he was accused of having spent only eight days in the community since the lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for failing to open shelters for those in quarantine and for failing to put in place safety checks to protect local residents from those who might enter the town but are not residents .
Peru ranks 12th among the world ’ s nations in coronavirus cases with 123,979 , according to Johns Hopkins .
“ This situation is not just a health emergency , but a health catastrophe , defined as a situation where the pandemic has overtaken the response capacity of the health sector , ” Dr. Alfredo Celis of the Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Martin Vizcarra said that in the aftermath of the virus , Peru ’ s residents must change “ social behaviors that have done much damage.
” “ This kind of behavior is individualistic , selfish … ignoring what ’ s happening around us , and precisely what has brought this situation upon us , not just in Peru , but the whole world , ” he said .
Vizcarra has extended the nation ’ s state of emergency until June 30 .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

As diligence goes, the mayor of one small town in Peru would probably get a C, as in coffin.
Perhaps for those who grade on creativity, he might get an A, as in arrested, despite his unique scheme to evade being taken into custody.
Jaime Rolando Urbina Torres, the mayor of the community of Tantara in Peru, has not been popular with the people there because of his laxity in addressing lockdown rules to contain the coronavirus.
And so it was recently that when Peruvian police arrived to arrest him while he was drinking with his pals in violation of social distancing rules, he hopped in a coffin and played dead, hoping to avoid arrest, according to the U.K.’s Evening Standard.
Police reported that the mayor’s drinking buddies hid in drawers, although no detail was given to explain why a coffin and drawers happened to be nearby.
A clip from a Spanish-language report on YouTube shows images of Torres before hiding in the coffin, and while he was pretending to be dead.
He was detained for allegedly breaking curfew and social distancing orders and was supposedly drunk when arrested.
Tantara, like the rest of Peru, was supposed to be locked down as of mid-March, according to the national government’s orders.
Do you think this town needs to find itself a new mayor? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 80% (73 Votes) No: 20% (18 Votes)
But Torres has been upbraided by local citizens for a lackluster performance of his duties, according to the U.K. Daily Mail.
During an early May town meeting, he was accused of having spent only eight days in the community since the lockdown was imposed.
He was also criticized for failing to open shelters for those in quarantine and for failing to put in place safety checks to protect local residents from those who might enter the town but are not residents.
Peru ranks 12th among the world’s nations in coronavirus cases with 123,979, according to Johns Hopkins.
“This situation is not just a health emergency, but a health catastrophe, defined as a situation where the pandemic has overtaken the response capacity of the health sector,” Dr. Alfredo Celis of the Medical College of Peru told CNN.
Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra said that in the aftermath of the virus, Peru’s residents must change “social behaviors that have done much damage.”
“This kind of behavior is individualistic, selfish … ignoring what’s happening around us, and precisely what has brought this situation upon us, not just in Peru, but the whole world,” he said.
Vizcarra has extended the nation’s state of emergency until June 30.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Girlfriend of George Floyd Issues Heartbreaking Message to Minneapolis Rioters

There ’ s always that heartbreaking moment in any national moment of distress when you realize that , no , we ’ re not going to come together as a nation or do anything resembling that .
In the case of the Monday death of George Floyd — the Minneapolis man whose passing was , unless there ’ s a dramatic “ Law & Order ” -esque plot twist in store for us , precipitated in part or in whole by a police officer putting his knee on Floyd ’ s neck for roughly nine minutes during an arrest as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — I prayed that moment would come .
It was unlikely , sure , but it was a death that enraged conservatives and liberals , the political and apolitical , people of all races .
We saw the video and we knew justice had to be served .
If there was ever a moment where we could maybe break bread over a national tragedy , this was it .
I prayed for George Floyd ’ s loved ones , especially his family , but most importantly , I prayed for this nation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a modicum of healing could emerge .
On Thursday morning I saw this and I knew it would all end in tears : TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise The Rev .
Al Sharpton — the least plausible American clerical leader since Elmer Gantry , a man who ’ s never fully apologized for the anti-Semitic rhetoric which helped inflame the situation in the run-up to the Crown Heights riots in New York City in 1991 , which ended in the death of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Jews want to get it on , tell them to pin their yarmulkes back and come over to my house , ” one sample Sharpton statement went ) — was headed to Minneapolis to … well , clearly not to patch things up .
Sharpton ’ s learned a thing or two about decorum in 30 years , particularly since he has an MSNBC show to keep , but he wasn ’ t headed to Minneapolis to keep the peace .
( He did say that destroying “ black-owned stores ” was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about other Minneapolis businesses rather asks itself . )
However , Sharpton needn ’ t have been there to throw kerosene on the figurative fires when there was plenty of literal fires being set .
Another question that rather asks itself , then : What would George Floyd have thought about this ?
What would he have thought about a small subset of protesters — rioters , really — laying waste to the city ?
According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune , not only is Floyd ’ s girlfriend Courteney Ross “ heartbroken ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Floyd would have been , too .
RELATED : Minneapolis PD Fails To Arrest 'Protesters ' as City Asks Rioters To Social Distance “ Waking up this morning to see Minneapolis on fire would be something that would devastate Floyd , ” said Ross , who had dated the 46-year-old Floyd for roughly three years .
“ He loved the city .
He came here [ from Houston ] and stayed here for the people and the opportunities , ” she told the Star-Tribune .
“ Floyd was a gentle giant .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” His relatives echoed similar statements through the family ’ s attorney , Benjamin Crump .
The statement thanked protesters “ for joining them in standing for justice , [ but ] we also can not sink to the level of our oppressors , and we can not endanger each other as we respond to the necessary urge to raise our voices in unison and outrage.
” I ’ m not entirely sure who the “ oppressors ” are here , but they could be the ones coming in to clean up the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Guard soldiers to deal with the problems on Minneapolis ’ streets , according to Fox News .
As of Thursday , the chief of police said they weren ’ t even bothering to try protecting property .
And meanwhile , we ’ re told this is a natural reaction to an injustice , particularly one perpetrated by a white cop on a person of color .
A certain Martin Luther King Jr. quote has been getting quite a bit of play these past few days , one which is worth examining .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the unheard , ” King said in 1967 .
“ And what is it that America has failed to hear ?
It has failed to hear that the plight of the Negro poor has worsened over the last few years .
It has failed to hear that the promises of freedom and justice have not been met .
And it has failed to hear that large segments of white society are more concerned about tranquility and the status quo than about justice , equality and humanity.
” That clip was tweeted by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wake of the George Floyd riots .
Yet , as The Week noted , there ’ s a bit of deceptive editing there .
Before this , here ’ s what King said : “ Let me say as I ’ ve always said , and I will always continue to say , that riots are socially destructive and self-defeating.
” And far from being unheard , Floyd ’ s cries were heard and seen by millions upon millions , who condemned the officers and called for justice .
When Rush Limbaugh says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with good and hard ” and “ I ’ ve seen the video like everybody else , and it makes me so mad I can ’ t see straight , ” this isn ’ t a situation where there was much controversy about what should happen .
Lesser men than King are at work in Minneapolis , tragically .
When Al Sharpton is on the scene providing leadership , you can guess how the situation will evolve — or devolve — from there .
This is now about the riots and the media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Floyd .
That ’ s the definition of self-defeat .
George Floyd ’ s death demands justice .
Parts of his adopted city being reduced to ashes and rubble is the diametrical opposite of that .
One hopes the residents of Minneapolis will listen to his girlfriend — if just to honor the memory of the deceased .
Please , let ’ s at least come together to do that .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

There’s always that heartbreaking moment in any national moment of distress when you realize that, no, we’re not going to come together as a nation or do anything resembling that.
In the case of the Monday death of George Floyd — the Minneapolis man whose passing was, unless there’s a dramatic “Law & Order”-esque plot twist in store for us, precipitated in part or in whole by a police officer putting his knee on Floyd’s neck for roughly nine minutes during an arrest as Floyd complained he couldn’t breathe — I prayed that moment would come.
It was unlikely, sure, but it was a death that enraged conservatives and liberals, the political and apolitical, people of all races. We saw the video and we knew justice had to be served.
If there was ever a moment where we could maybe break bread over a national tragedy, this was it. I prayed for George Floyd’s loved ones, especially his family, but most importantly, I prayed for this nation. Let this be a moment from which a modicum of healing could emerge.
On Thursday morning I saw this and I knew it would all end in tears:
Headed to Minneapolis today! — Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) May 28, 2020
The Rev. Al Sharpton — the least plausible American clerical leader since Elmer Gantry, a man who’s never fully apologized for the anti-Semitic rhetoric which helped inflame the situation in the run-up to the Crown Heights riots in New York City in 1991, which ended in the death of a Jewish doctoral student (“If the Jews want to get it on, tell them to pin their yarmulkes back and come over to my house,” one sample Sharpton statement went) — was headed to Minneapolis to … well, clearly not to patch things up.
Should the US use the military to end these riots? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 85% (7149 Votes) No: 15% (1279 Votes)
Sharpton’s learned a thing or two about decorum in 30 years, particularly since he has an MSNBC show to keep, but he wasn’t headed to Minneapolis to keep the peace. (He did say that destroying “black-owned stores” was “reckless,” although the question about other Minneapolis businesses rather asks itself.)
However, Sharpton needn’t have been there to throw kerosene on the figurative fires when there was plenty of literal fires being set.
Another question that rather asks itself, then: What would George Floyd have thought about this?
What would he have thought about a small subset of protesters — rioters, really — laying waste to the city?
According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, not only is Floyd’s girlfriend Courteney Ross “heartbroken” over what’s happened, she says Floyd would have been, too.
“Waking up this morning to see Minneapolis on fire would be something that would devastate Floyd,” said Ross, who had dated the 46-year-old Floyd for roughly three years.
“He loved the city. He came here [from Houston] and stayed here for the people and the opportunities,” she told the Star-Tribune. “Floyd was a gentle giant. He was about love and about peace.”
His relatives echoed similar statements through the family’s attorney, Benjamin Crump.
The statement thanked protesters “for joining them in standing for justice, [but] we also cannot sink to the level of our oppressors, and we cannot endanger each other as we respond to the necessary urge to raise our voices in unison and outrage.”
I’m not entirely sure who the “oppressors” are here, but they could be the ones coming in to clean up the mess.
Minnesota is now requesting more National Guard soldiers to deal with the problems on Minneapolis’ streets, according to Fox News.
As of Thursday, the chief of police said they weren’t even bothering to try protecting property.
And meanwhile, we’re told this is a natural reaction to an injustice, particularly one perpetrated by a white cop on a person of color.
A certain Martin Luther King Jr. quote has been getting quite a bit of play these past few days, one which is worth examining.
“A riot is the language of the unheard,” King said in 1967.
“And what is it that America has failed to hear? It has failed to hear that the plight of the Negro poor has worsened over the last few years. It has failed to hear that the promises of freedom and justice have not been met. And it has failed to hear that large segments of white society are more concerned about tranquility and the status quo than about justice, equality and humanity.”
That clip was tweeted by the Martin Luther King Jr. Center in the wake of the George Floyd riots.
“In the final analysis, a riot is the language of the unheard. And what is it that America has failed to hear?” pic.twitter.com/Als3jhxaGH — The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center (@TheKingCenter) May 28, 2020
Yet, as The Week noted, there’s a bit of deceptive editing there.
Before this, here’s what King said: “Let me say as I’ve always said, and I will always continue to say, that riots are socially destructive and self-defeating.”
And far from being unheard, Floyd’s cries were heard and seen by millions upon millions, who condemned the officers and called for justice.
When Rush Limbaugh says “I hope these cops are dealt with good and hard” and “I’ve seen the video like everybody else, and it makes me so mad I can’t see straight,” this isn’t a situation where there was much controversy about what should happen.
Lesser men than King are at work in Minneapolis, tragically.
When Al Sharpton is on the scene providing leadership, you can guess how the situation will evolve — or devolve — from there. This is now about the riots and the media coverage of them, not about George Floyd. That’s the definition of self-defeat.
George Floyd’s death demands justice. Parts of his adopted city being reduced to ashes and rubble is the diametrical opposite of that.
One hopes the residents of Minneapolis will listen to his girlfriend — if just to honor the memory of the deceased.
Please, let’s at least come together to do that.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Photos Show What Can Happen If You Handle Lemons or Limes and Go Outside

Summertime is full of citrus in one way or another .
It ’ s a popular seasonal print , an essential part of a classic margarita and the backbone of lemonade .
It ’ s highly acidic , though , and when you ’ re using lemons or limes , you want to be careful that you don ’ t have any cuts or scrapes that the juice might get into — it burns !
But the juice can also chemically burn you in a way that you might not expect .
The conditions have to be just right in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ phytophotodermatitis , ” but during the summer those conditions are often met .
The reaction happens because of compounds known as “ furocoumarins ” found in lemon and lime juice ( as well as in parsley , parsnips , figs and celery ) combined with sun exposure .
According to dermatologist Dr. Joyce Park , not everyone suffers the same way .
“ If someone ’ s skin is super sensitive and they get a bad case of phytophotodermatitis , they may develop a serious blistering rash , ” she told BuzzFeed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise The condition is also known as “ lime ” or “ margarita ” burn .
People who have experienced this phenomenon are using social media to warn others and share their own stories .
“ This is my half joking/half serious PSA to my friends , ” wrote Meaghan Huet .
“ Watch out for citrus !
If you ’ re gon na make ceviche/margaritas/other delicious things , wash your hands with soap AND water ( not just a rinse ) , before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ These are my hands 2 weeks after I made ceviche ( wasn ’ t even a mohito involved 😕 ) .
The citrus will react with the sun and give you a chemical burn .
It ’ s not fun .
And it doesn ’ t even get red on the day it ’ s happening – only starts to show 24 hrs later.
” “ What happened to my hand , you ask ?
” Ashley W shared .
“ Did you know that limes can cause extremes burns if any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skin and is exposed to the sun ?
” “ Making guacamole on Sunday gave me a painful 2nd and 3rd degree burn all over my hands.
” “ I got second degree burns on both hands from squeezing limes and then going out in the sun … so no woodworking for a little bit , ” Kate Harrow posted .
RELATED : Bride-To-Be Saves Over $ 18,000 for Dream Wedding by Eating Her Favorite Foods “ Yea that ’ s a thing .
Hopefully the swelling goes down soon.
” “ Today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day ’ news , I didn ’ t just miss a spot when applying sunscreen to earn this burn , I got it because I hand-squeezed citrus fruit , ” another poor soul wrote .
“ It ’ s a chemical burn called Phytophotodermatotis , or ‘ margarita burn ’ ( I , sadly , was making salsa , not margaritas ) .
” “ The juice and oil from limes ( and several other fruits and veggies ) contain chemicals that make human skin extra sensitive to sunlight .
Just ‘ rinsing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t good enough if you ’ re going to be in the sun , clearly .
Let my blistery right hand save you from future pain !
” The photos are all effective deterrents from trying something like this at home , but thankfully there are some steps you can take if you do find yourself suffering from lime burn .
According to Dr. Park , “ You can use over-the-counter hydrocortisone or a prescription-strength steroid ointment from your doctor to help the healing process.
” Just remember to wash your hands well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to avoid this painful blistering .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Summertime is full of citrus in one way or another. It’s a popular seasonal print, an essential part of a classic margarita and the backbone of lemonade.
It’s highly acidic, though, and when you’re using lemons or limes, you want to be careful that you don’t have any cuts or scrapes that the juice might get into — it burns!
But the juice can also chemically burn you in a way that you might not expect. The conditions have to be just right in order for a person to suffer from “phytophotodermatitis,” but during the summer those conditions are often met.
The reaction happens because of compounds known as “furocoumarins” found in lemon and lime juice (as well as in parsley, parsnips, figs and celery) combined with sun exposure. According to dermatologist Dr. Joyce Park, not everyone suffers the same way.
“If someone’s skin is super sensitive and they get a bad case of phytophotodermatitis, they may develop a serious blistering rash,” she told BuzzFeed.
The condition is also known as “lime” or “margarita” burn. People who have experienced this phenomenon are using social media to warn others and share their own stories.
“This is my half joking/half serious PSA to my friends,” wrote Meaghan Huet. “Watch out for citrus! If you’re gonna make ceviche/margaritas/other delicious things, wash your hands with soap AND water (not just a rinse), before you go out in the sun.”
“These are my hands 2 weeks after I made ceviche (wasn’t even a mohito involved ?). The citrus will react with the sun and give you a chemical burn. It’s not fun. And it doesn’t even get red on the day it’s happening – only starts to show 24 hrs later.”
“What happened to my hand, you ask?” Ashley W shared. “Did you know that limes can cause extremes burns if any juice or oil is left on your skin and is exposed to the sun?”
“Making guacamole on Sunday gave me a painful 2nd and 3rd degree burn all over my hands.”
“I got second degree burns on both hands from squeezing limes and then going out in the sun … so no woodworking for a little bit,” Kate Harrow posted.
“Yea that’s a thing. Hopefully the swelling goes down soon.”
“Today in ‘you learn something new every day’ news, I didn’t just miss a spot when applying sunscreen to earn this burn, I got it because I hand-squeezed citrus fruit,” another poor soul wrote. “It’s a chemical burn called Phytophotodermatotis, or ‘margarita burn’ (I, sadly, was making salsa, not margaritas).”
“The juice and oil from limes (and several other fruits and veggies) contain chemicals that make human skin extra sensitive to sunlight. Just ‘rinsing off the lime juice’ isn’t good enough if you’re going to be in the sun, clearly. Let my blistery right hand save you from future pain!”
The photos are all effective deterrents from trying something like this at home, but thankfully there are some steps you can take if you do find yourself suffering from lime burn.
According to Dr. Park, “You can use over-the-counter hydrocortisone or a prescription-strength steroid ointment from your doctor to help the healing process.”
Just remember to wash your hands well after using citrus and you should be able to avoid this painful blistering.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Man Charged With Setting Grandmother’s Home on Fire Sports Ridiculous Mugshot Look

A Tennessee man has been arrested in connection with an early May fire in which two dogs were locked in a room that was then set ablaze .
In his booking photo , Sneed , whose hair was mostly cut very short , sported two strands of hair hanging down to his neck .
His hairdo also featured pink braids in the shape of a mohawk .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise The fire took place in the home of Sneed ’ s grandmother .
Police said that when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire , the house had smoke coming from it .
The woman living there said two dogs had been in a room that police later determined was where the fire started .
Police Chief Stan Allen said the dogs were not killed in the fire .
A computer and several other possessions of the woman who lived there were destroyed , police said .
The back door of the house had been unlocked .
RELATED : Report Says Military on Alert , Ready for Rapid Deployment to Riot-Ravaged Cities ; White House Denies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started intentionally and that a bottle of vodka had been taken .
They were told by the woman that Sneed was the only person aside from herself who would know how to find the vodka .
A short time later , a nearby diner reported that Sneed had gone there and asked for a beer .
He was refused service because he did not have identification .
He also asked for matches .
Diner staff did not give him any , police said .
After Sneed left , police said he poured out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bottle of vodka on the ground .
Sneed used the phone at the business to call his grandmother .
He was arrested and charged with aggravated arson , arson , aggravated burglary , aggravated cruelty to animals and vandalism .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A Tennessee man has been arrested in connection with an early May fire in which two dogs were locked in a room that was then set ablaze.
East Ridge, Tennessee, police arrested a man named Dustin Sneed on May 14, WTVC reported.
In his booking photo, Sneed, whose hair was mostly cut very short, sported two strands of hair hanging down to his neck. His hairdo also featured pink braids in the shape of a mohawk.
when the crime and the mug shot pretty much match. https://t.co/30VwMxldbz — GregGutfeld (@greggutfeld) May 21, 2020
The Chattanooga Times Free Press reported Sneed’s age as 30.
The fire took place in the home of Sneed’s grandmother.
Police said that when they arrived at the scene of the fire, the house had smoke coming from it.
The woman living there said two dogs had been in a room that police later determined was where the fire started.
Police Chief Stan Allen said the dogs were not killed in the fire.
A computer and several other possessions of the woman who lived there were destroyed, police said.
The back door of the house had been unlocked.
NEW: A man has been charged with arson and animal cruelty, among other things, after East Ridge Police say he set fire to a room in his grandmother’s house with two dogs inside it. https://t.co/qavbGwbloz — WTVC NewsChannel 9 (@newschannelnine) May 19, 2020
Police said that the fire had been started intentionally and that a bottle of vodka had been taken.
They were told by the woman that Sneed was the only person aside from herself who would know how to find the vodka.
A short time later, a nearby diner reported that Sneed had gone there and asked for a beer. He was refused service because he did not have identification.
He also asked for matches. Diner staff did not give him any, police said.
After Sneed left, police said he poured out the vodka on the sidewalk and threw the bottle of vodka on the ground.
Sneed used the phone at the business to call his grandmother.
He was arrested and charged with aggravated arson, arson, aggravated burglary, aggravated cruelty to animals and vandalism.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--SCOTUS Rejects California Church’s Challenge Against State Restrictions on Worship

The Supreme Court of the United States has rejected a request from a church to block California restrictions on religious services .
South Bay United Pentecostal Church of Chula Vista , California , filed a petition over Memorial Day weekend saying that Newsom ’ s coronavirus restrictions “ arbitrarily discriminate against places of worship in violation of their right to the Free Exercise of Religion under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution , ” according to CNN .
But the Supreme Court rejected this request Friday in a 5-4 decision , with Chief Justice John Roberts siding with liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ California ’ s guidelines place restrictions on places of worship , those restrictions appear consistent with the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment , ” Roberts wrote .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise Justice Brett Kavanaugh , writing in dissent of the rejection for Justices Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch , said he would grant the “ Church ’ s requested temporary injunction because California ’ s latest safety guidelines discriminate against places of worship and in favor of comparable secular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ First Amendment , ” he added .
Newsom said Monday that churches may re-open but that services must be limited to 100 people or 25 percent capacity , according to CNN .
A lawyer with the Thomas More Society representing the church said the church will amend the petition to reflect the updated order as the challenge goes forward .
Attorney Charles LiMandri , who serves as special counsel to the Thomas More Society , said in a statement provided to the Daily Caller News Foundation that the case is “ far from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is due in the Ninth Circuit on June 5 , ” he said .
“ If it is necessary to go back up to the U.S. Supreme Court after the Ninth Circuit rules again , we will benefit from a much more favorable standard .
RELATED : Pastor Says Church Was Burned Down by People with Ill Intentions “ We are hopeful that fact would also lead to a better result for religious liberty.
” A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website .
We are committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Supreme Court of the United States has rejected a request from a church to block California restrictions on religious services.
South Bay United Pentecostal Church of Chula Vista, California, filed a petition over Memorial Day weekend saying that Newsom’s coronavirus restrictions “arbitrarily discriminate against places of worship in violation of their right to the Free Exercise of Religion under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution,” according to CNN.
But the Supreme Court rejected this request Friday in a 5-4 decision, with Chief Justice John Roberts siding with liberal justices on the bench.
“Although California’s guidelines place restrictions on places of worship, those restrictions appear consistent with the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment,” Roberts wrote.
Chief Justice Roberts and the four Democrat SCOTUS appointees voted to affirm governors’ rights to keep Americans out of church yesterday. Let THAT sink in. — Laura Ingraham (@IngrahamAngle) May 30, 2020
Justice Brett Kavanaugh, writing in dissent of the rejection for Justices Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch, said he would grant the “Church’s requested temporary injunction because California’s latest safety guidelines discriminate against places of worship and in favor of comparable secular businesses.”
“Such discrimination violates the First Amendment,” he added.
Newsom said Monday that churches may re-open but that services must be limited to 100 people or 25 percent capacity, according to CNN.
Do you think restrictions on in-person church services violate the First Amendment? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (119 Votes) No: 2% (3 Votes)
A lawyer with the Thomas More Society representing the church said the church will amend the petition to reflect the updated order as the challenge goes forward.
Attorney Charles LiMandri, who serves as special counsel to the Thomas More Society, said in a statement provided to the Daily Caller News Foundation that the case is “far from over.”
“Our next appellate brief is due in the Ninth Circuit on June 5,” he said.
“If it is necessary to go back up to the U.S. Supreme Court after the Ninth Circuit rules again, we will benefit from a much more favorable standard.
BREAKING: Supreme Court rules 5-4 AGAINST a California church that challenged Gavin Newsom’s unconstitutional public gathering restrictions Why is it “legal” to burn our cities but officially illegal to go to church in CA? John Roberts disappoints again What a disgrace. RT! — Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) May 30, 2020
“We are hopeful that fact would also lead to a better result for religious liberty.”
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Bride-To-Be Saves Over $18,000 for Dream Wedding by Eating Her Favorite Foods

Most brides-to-be have a tortured relationship with food , especially as it relates to their wedding day .
Bryony Morganna , on the other hand , is eating food to pay for her wedding .
That sounds like a dream gig — and in a way , it is .
But like everything , it took time and effort for the British woman to get to where she is today .
It all started for the Guildford , Surrey , resident back in 2016 when she was dabbling in social media .
She had a YouTube account and an Instagram @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t really take off the way she ’ d hoped .
So , after giving it a go , she decided to focus on Instagram .
“ The thing is with Instagram , it ’ s easier and quicker to engage with your audience than it is on YouTube so you can build a following a bit more easily , ” she told Metro , a British news outlet .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise At first , she simply used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of delicious food — something many people were doing at the time .
She didn ’ t get paid , it was just a hobby that she did for herself .
“ When I started out sharing pictures of food , I did it because I love food — not because I thought I could make money out of it , ” she explained .
After three years total of posting and eating ( and one of those years taking her posting very seriously ) , Morganna finally started to make money off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she started to rake in the cash .
She upgraded her account to a business account in 2019 and began getting offers from restaurants and eateries .
Not only would she get free food , she would basically get paid to eat it .
“ Brands started approaching me and asking if I could create content using their food — either in pictures or a short video , ” she said .
“ The prices for working with brands can vary but my base fee is about £400 , which would include one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stories and a swipe up link to the product website.
” “ Sometimes , if I agree to work exclusively with a brand for a period of time , I can charge up to £1,000 .
Or , if I get asked to work on a longer project over a few months , which will include something like six pictures and multiple bits of video content , I can charge up to £2,000.
” Now , at 28 , Morganna has nearly 20,000 followers and gets to indulge in her passion for amazing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paying the bills .
RELATED : Photos Show What Can Happen If You Handle Lemons or Limes and Go Outside “ My Instagram page has turned out to be a good little money earner , ” she continued .
“ The money side of things has come as a nice surprise – not only do I get to try amazing food all the time , but I ’ ve managed to save £15,000 for my wedding.
” That ’ s a little over $ 18,000 : Not too shabby at all for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she ’ s expecting the wedding to cost around $ 37,000 , but with the wedding moved from this year to next September , she ’ s got time .
“ I ’ ve managed to save all the money I ’ ve made from Instagram for the wedding , ” she added .
“ I ’ m lucky because it ’ s not my full-time job , so I can put away all the extra money I make from it.
” “ I ’ m a big believer in ‘ Go big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve had to postpone our wedding , when it does finally come around , we want it to be a huge party with all our family and friends.
” Thanks to her social media presence , it looks like the couple will be able to do just that !
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Most brides-to-be have a tortured relationship with food, especially as it relates to their wedding day. Bryony Morganna, on the other hand, is eating food to pay for her wedding.
That sounds like a dream gig — and in a way, it is. But like everything, it took time and effort for the British woman to get to where she is today.
It all started for the Guildford, Surrey, resident back in 2016 when she was dabbling in social media. She had a YouTube account and an Instagram account, but her YouTube channel didn’t really take off the way she’d hoped. So, after giving it a go, she decided to focus on Instagram.
“The thing is with Instagram, it’s easier and quicker to engage with your audience than it is on YouTube so you can build a following a bit more easily,” she told Metro, a British news outlet.
At first, she simply used Instagram as a platform for sharing photos of delicious food — something many people were doing at the time. She didn’t get paid, it was just a hobby that she did for herself.
“When I started out sharing pictures of food, I did it because I love food — not because I thought I could make money out of it,” she explained.
After three years total of posting and eating (and one of those years taking her posting very seriously), Morganna finally started to make money off her endeavors. Summer 2019 was when she started to rake in the cash.
She upgraded her account to a business account in 2019 and began getting offers from restaurants and eateries. Not only would she get free food, she would basically get paid to eat it.
“Brands started approaching me and asking if I could create content using their food — either in pictures or a short video,” she said. “The prices for working with brands can vary but my base fee is about £400, which would include one post on my grid, three Instagram stories and a swipe up link to the product website.”
“Sometimes, if I agree to work exclusively with a brand for a period of time, I can charge up to £1,000. Or, if I get asked to work on a longer project over a few months, which will include something like six pictures and multiple bits of video content, I can charge up to £2,000.”
Now, at 28, Morganna has nearly 20,000 followers and gets to indulge in her passion for amazing food — and it’s literally paying the bills.
“My Instagram page has turned out to be a good little money earner,” she continued. “The money side of things has come as a nice surprise – not only do I get to try amazing food all the time, but I’ve managed to save £15,000 for my wedding.”
That’s a little over $18,000: Not too shabby at all for a side gig.
All in all, she’s expecting the wedding to cost around $37,000, but with the wedding moved from this year to next September, she’s got time.
“I’ve managed to save all the money I’ve made from Instagram for the wedding,” she added. “I’m lucky because it’s not my full-time job, so I can put away all the extra money I make from it.”
“I’m a big believer in ‘Go big or go home.’ Even though we’ve had to postpone our wedding, when it does finally come around, we want it to be a huge party with all our family and friends.”
Thanks to her social media presence, it looks like the couple will be able to do just that!
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Barr Announces Federal Intervention in George Floyd Case

Attorney General William Barr announced Friday that the Department of Justice has launched an independent investigation , separate from the one being conducted by the state of Minnesota , into the death of George Floyd .
“ The video images of the incident that ended with the death of Mr. Floyd , while in custody of Minneapolis police officers , were harrowing to watch and deeply disturbing , ” Barr said in a statement .
The DOJ ’ s investigation , which the FBI is part of , will determine whether any federal civil rights laws were violated in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers are working diligently and collaboratively to ensure that any available evidence relevant to these decisions is obtained as quickly as possible , ” Barr said .
“ Under our system , charging decisions must be , and will be , based on the law and facts .
This process is proceeding quickly.
” TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise The attorney general added that he was “ confident justice will be served.
” President Donald Trump had also requested federal authorities to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death in Minnesota.
” “ At my request , the FBI and the Department of Justice are already well into an investigation as to the very sad and tragic death in Minnesota of George Floyd , ” Trump tweeted .
“ I have asked for this investigation to be expedited and greatly appreciate all of the work done by local law enforcement .
My heart goes out to George ’ s family and friends .
Justice will be served !
” The DOJ ’ s announcement came on the same day that Derek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who put his knee on Floyd ’ s neck , was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter .
Chauvin was fired after 19 years on the police force immediately following the incident , along with three other officers who stood by idly .
“ This is by far the fastest that we ’ ve ever charged a police officer , ” Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said in a media conference announcing the arrest .
Floyd ’ s death has spawned protests , and in many cases riots , around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where Floyd died while in custody .
Minnesota Gov .
Tim Walz issued a plea for calm Friday to rioters who have thrown the city of Minneapolis into chaos this week .
“ I will not patronize you as a white man without living those lived experiences , ” the Democratic governor said , “ but I am asking you to help us.
” “ Help us use humane ways to get the streets to a place where we can restore the justice so that those that are expressing rage and anger and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who throw fire bombs into businesses.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Attorney General William Barr announced Friday that the Department of Justice has launched an independent investigation, separate from the one being conducted by the state of Minnesota, into the death of George Floyd.
“The video images of the incident that ended with the death of Mr. Floyd, while in custody of Minneapolis police officers, were harrowing to watch and deeply disturbing,” Barr said in a statement.
The DOJ’s investigation, which the FBI is part of, will determine whether any federal civil rights laws were violated in the case.
“Both state and federal officers are working diligently and collaboratively to ensure that any available evidence relevant to these decisions is obtained as quickly as possible,” Barr said.
“Under our system, charging decisions must be, and will be, based on the law and facts. This process is proceeding quickly.”
The attorney general added that he was “confident justice will be served.”
President Donald Trump had also requested federal authorities to start an investigation into the “tragic death in Minnesota.”
“At my request, the FBI and the Department of Justice are already well into an investigation as to the very sad and tragic death in Minnesota of George Floyd,” Trump tweeted.
“I have asked for this investigation to be expedited and greatly appreciate all of the work done by local law enforcement. My heart goes out to George’s family and friends. Justice will be served!”
….I have asked for this investigation to be expedited and greatly appreciate all of the work done by local law enforcement. My heart goes out to George’s family and friends. Justice will be served! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 27, 2020
The DOJ’s announcement came on the same day that Derek Chauvin, the former Minnesota police officer who put his knee on Floyd’s neck, was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Chauvin was fired after 19 years on the police force immediately following the incident, along with three other officers who stood by idly.
“This is by far the fastest that we’ve ever charged a police officer,” Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said in a media conference announcing the arrest.
Floyd’s death has spawned protests, and in many cases riots, around the country, not just in Minneapolis where Floyd died while in custody.
Do you think this situation has gotten out of hand? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (1448 Votes) No: 2% (23 Votes)
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued a plea for calm Friday to rioters who have thrown the city of Minneapolis into chaos this week.
“I will not patronize you as a white man without living those lived experiences,” the Democratic governor said, “but I am asking you to help us.”
“Help us use humane ways to get the streets to a place where we can restore the justice so that those that are expressing rage and anger and demanding justice are heard, not those who throw fire bombs into businesses.”
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Law Professor Wins Defamation Suit Against Woman Who Falsely Accused Him of Rape

A University of Minnesota Law School professor has been awarded more than $ 1 million in a defamation suit he launched against a woman who prosecutors have said falsely accused him of rape .
Hennepin County District Court Judge Daniel Moreno ruled Monday that Francesco Parisi should receive more than $ 800,000 for economic losses and $ 325,000 for emotional , punitive and reputational damages , according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune .
Parisi had been charged with rape in 2017 for a crime that was alleged to have taken place in 2015 .
The charges against him were dropped three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then launched a suit against Morgan Wright , who had brought the rape charges .
That suit was heard before Moreno in September .
“ This case is about a relationship that started quickly , out of a mutual interest in a potential real estate adventure .
The relationship ended quickly too , as the Parties , who were intertwined in the purchase and partition of a condominium unit , became embroiled in issues related to the construction and financing of that project , ” Moreno wrote .
TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Witness Says Otherwise “ The relationship spanned from September of 2014 to January of 2015 .
Next was litigation related to that real estate project , as Parisi sought to cancel the purchase contract he made with Wright .
So began Wright ’ s retaliatory offensive , culminating with her defamatory claim that Parisi raped her in January of 2015.
” The judge noted that the real estate dispute triggered Wright ’ s accusations .
“ In March of 2015 , Parisi began the process of cancelling the Parties ’ real estate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parisi tried to run her down with his car .
In June of 2016 , Parisi ’ s action to cancel the purchase agreement and evict Wright were affirmed in the Minnesota Court of Appeals .
Directly after , on June 30 , 2016 , Wright alleged Parisi raped her on January 22 , 2015 , ” he wrote .
Moreno ruled that the charges caused suffering on the part of Parisi .
“ Wright caused Parisi to be charged and jailed because of these defamatory statements .
Parisi was not able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away while he was being held in custody .
Wright continued her defamatory campaign , lobbing various accusations against Parisi and disseminating them to various people .
Wright and her plethora of allegations against Parisi lack credibility , ” he wrote .
Moreno also noted that in the months after when she claimed she had been raped , Wright had been to several medical appointments and mentioned neither the rape nor the injury she said it had caused to her body .
Wright ’ s “ accusations were false , made with malice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she “ injured Parisi as a direct result of her untruthful narrative crusade.
” Parisi ’ s attorney , John Braun , told the Star Tribune that his client “ is pleased that court system has finally unmasked Morgan Wright and recognized her for the liar that she is .
… It ’ s been ruinous to his reputation and his health to have to constantly be battling ” Wright .
“ Wright enjoyed the benefit of doubt for years of weaponizing the court system to harass Professor Parisi , and those days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Braun said Parisi still suffers from the false allegation because an internet search for him “ returns a mug shot and headlines about him being a rapist , and it will forever .
So part of the court ’ s message is that in the 21st century this is a greater harm than it might have been in the past , and an award needs to anticipate the long arc of future harm still to be endured by its victim.
” “ I used to be the popular guy at parties , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ m Italian ; I bring the good wine .
I don ’ t get so many invitations now.
” The settlement appears to be the largest defamation award in Minnesota history , according to the Star Tribune .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A University of Minnesota Law School professor has been awarded more than $1 million in a defamation suit he launched against a woman who prosecutors have said falsely accused him of rape.
Hennepin County District Court Judge Daniel Moreno ruled Monday that Francesco Parisi should receive more than $800,000 for economic losses and $325,000 for emotional, punitive and reputational damages, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
Parisi had been charged with rape in 2017 for a crime that was alleged to have taken place in 2015. The charges against him were dropped three weeks after they were filed. Parisi then launched a suit against Morgan Wright, who had brought the rape charges. That suit was heard before Moreno in September.
Moreno’s decision summarized the background.
“This case is about a relationship that started quickly, out of a mutual interest in a potential real estate adventure. The relationship ended quickly too, as the Parties, who were intertwined in the purchase and partition of a condominium unit, became embroiled in issues related to the construction and financing of that project,” Moreno wrote.
“The relationship spanned from September of 2014 to January of 2015. Next was litigation related to that real estate project, as Parisi sought to cancel the purchase contract he made with Wright. So began Wright’s retaliatory offensive, culminating with her defamatory claim that Parisi raped her in January of 2015.”
The judge noted that the real estate dispute triggered Wright’s accusations.
“In March of 2015, Parisi began the process of cancelling the Parties’ real estate contract. Soon after, Wright claimed Parisi tried to run her down with his car. In June of 2016, Parisi’s action to cancel the purchase agreement and evict Wright were affirmed in the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Directly after, on June 30, 2016, Wright alleged Parisi raped her on January 22, 2015,” he wrote.
Moreno ruled that the charges caused suffering on the part of Parisi.
“Wright caused Parisi to be charged and jailed because of these defamatory statements. Parisi was not able to be with his mother as she passed away while he was being held in custody. Wright continued her defamatory campaign, lobbing various accusations against Parisi and disseminating them to various people. Wright and her plethora of allegations against Parisi lack credibility,” he wrote.
Moreno also noted that in the months after when she claimed she had been raped, Wright had been to several medical appointments and mentioned neither the rape nor the injury she said it had caused to her body.
Wright’s “accusations were false, made with malice,” Moreno ruled, adding that she “injured Parisi as a direct result of her untruthful narrative crusade.”
Parisi’s attorney, John Braun, told the Star Tribune that his client “is pleased that court system has finally unmasked Morgan Wright and recognized her for the liar that she is. … It’s been ruinous to his reputation and his health to have to constantly be battling” Wright.
“Wright enjoyed the benefit of doubt for years of weaponizing the court system to harass Professor Parisi, and those days are finally over,” he added.
Braun said Parisi still suffers from the false allegation because an internet search for him “returns a mug shot and headlines about him being a rapist, and it will forever. So part of the court’s message is that in the 21st century this is a greater harm than it might have been in the past, and an award needs to anticipate the long arc of future harm still to be endured by its victim.”
“It was a horror movie,” Parisi told KMSP-TV.
“I used to be the popular guy at parties,” he said. “I’m Italian; I bring the good wine. I don’t get so many invitations now.”
The settlement appears to be the largest defamation award in Minnesota history, according to the Star Tribune.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Grandmother in Tears When She Receives 100 Roses for 100th Birthday

When family is the most important thing to you , not being able to be with them is punishment — especially on important days and during special celebrations .
“ Nanay ” Nene , of Jacksonville , Florida , has quite an impressive family .
She has seven children , 20 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren .
Sadly , her husband passed away on Christmas Eve , but thankfully she has lots of family .
As her birthday approached , it looked like social-distancing restrictions were still going to be in place , so one of her nieces hatched up a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise 100 years , 100 roses : The thoughtful niece rallied roses and relatives , doled out the flowers , and had family members bring the matriarch a few at a time as she sat in a wheelchair on her porch .
Edward Nostrates , who married into the family and is one of Nanay Nene ’ s grandsons , said that she was definitely touched by the kind gesture .
“ You couldn ’ t really see her face just because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just covering her whole face , ” he said , according to WTLV .
“ But she was tearing up.
” Based on the photos Nostrates shared , she was happy to be the recipient of the roses and birthday wishes from the important people in her life .
Nostrates also made her a gorgeous cake decorated with flowers .
“ I just finished editing this story to show you tonight at 5:30 , ” Jeannie Blaylock with WTLV posted on Friday .
“ 100 roses — perfect for a lady they call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for telling me all about Nanay and this special Bright Spot.
” “ Thank you Jeannie for sharing my Nanay Nena ’ s story , you made her 100th birthday extra special , ” Nostrates commented on her post .
“ The whole family would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
” RELATED : Caught on Video : Amazon Delivery Driver Stops To Pray for Boy with Heart Defect “ I love that woman with all my heart !
” commented another person .
“ I ’ m just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the celebration .
She really deserves the world , thank you for sharing this !
” “ From the Philippines with all our love , hugs and kisses !
!
!
We love you Nanay Nena !
!
!
” wrote a third .
Nostrates reassured readers on his post that Nanay Nene “ did enjoy her centennial COVID-19 celebration ” and they appreciated all the extended birthday wishes .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

When family is the most important thing to you, not being able to be with them is punishment — especially on important days and during special celebrations.
“Nanay” Nene, of Jacksonville, Florida, has quite an impressive family. She has seven children, 20 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
Sadly, her husband passed away on Christmas Eve, but thankfully she has lots of family.
As her birthday approached, it looked like social-distancing restrictions were still going to be in place, so one of her nieces hatched up a plan.
100 years, 100 roses: The thoughtful niece rallied roses and relatives, doled out the flowers, and had family members bring the matriarch a few at a time as she sat in a wheelchair on her porch.
Edward Nostrates, who married into the family and is one of Nanay Nene’s grandsons, said that she was definitely touched by the kind gesture.
“You couldn’t really see her face just because of the face mask, it’s just covering her whole face,” he said, according to WTLV. “But she was tearing up.”
Based on the photos Nostrates shared, she was happy to be the recipient of the roses and birthday wishes from the important people in her life. Nostrates also made her a gorgeous cake decorated with flowers.
“I just finished editing this story to show you tonight at 5:30,” Jeannie Blaylock with WTLV posted on Friday. “100 roses — perfect for a lady they call ‘Nanay.’ Thanks to Edward Nostrates for telling me all about Nanay and this special Bright Spot.”
“Thank you Jeannie for sharing my Nanay Nena’s story, you made her 100th birthday extra special,” Nostrates commented on her post. “The whole family would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
“I love that woman with all my heart!” commented another person. “I’m just sad I couldn’t be there for the celebration. She really deserves the world, thank you for sharing this!”
“From the Philippines with all our love, hugs and kisses!!! We love you Nanay Nena!!!” wrote a third.
Nostrates reassured readers on his post that Nanay Nene “did enjoy her centennial COVID-19 celebration” and they appreciated all the extended birthday wishes.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-05-30--Melania’s Response Condemning Riots Should Be Covered by Every Media Outlet in America

The death of George Floyd has been a tragic moment compounded by riots in cities across America — particularly Minneapolis , the city in which Floyd died on Monday .
Floyd ’ s death has drawn condemnation across the political spectrum .
A criminal complaint says that police officer Derrick Chauvin had his knee on Floyd ’ s neck for almost nine minutes during an arrest , and Chauvin is now charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter .
In a video taken by a bystander , Floyd can be clearly heard to say , “ I can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shortage of reactions from across the political spectrum , particularly now that riots have reached engulfed the nation from Los Angeles to the White House .
First lady Melania Trump , in her response , highlighted the tragedy of Floyd ’ s death but said that violence is unnecessary given the situation , particularly given the backdrop of COVID-19 : TRENDING : Bill Clinton Denied Going to Epstein 's Island , Now a Witness Says Otherwise “ Our country allows for peaceful protests , but there is no reason for violence , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve seen our citizens unify & take care of one another through COVID19 & we can ’ t stop now .
My deepest condolences to the family of George Floyd .
As a nation , let ’ s focus on peace , prayers & healing.
” The post came after a pair of controversial tweets from the president , including one which was flagged by Twitter for violating “ the Twitter Rules about glorifying violence.
” “ I can ’ t stand back & watch this happen to a great American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of leadership .
Either the very weak Radical Left Mayor , Jacob Frey , get his act together and bring the City under control , or I will send in the National Guard & get the job done right , ” President Trump said .
“ These THUGS are dishonoring the memory of George Floyd , and I won ’ t let that happen .
Just spoke to Governor Tim Walz and told him that the Military is with him all the way .
Any difficulty and we will assume control but , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ starts .
Thank you !
RELATED : Watch Melania Exemplify Grace and Beauty of First Lady in Moving Call to Prayer A fair amount of the coverage of Melania Trump ’ s tweet focused on the divergence of messages between the president and the first lady , usually using that divergence as a jumping-off point to a screed about the Twitter warning .
Leaving aside the fact that Trump pointed out what should have been obvious — he meant that “ [ l ] ooting leads to shooting , ” as he tweeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ precisely why the president and first lady play different roles in American public life .
The first lady ’ s job is to bring the country together .
That ’ s inherently difficult given the political climate and Melania ’ s last name , but she ’ s done so effectively enough that she ’ s consistently been the most popular Trump .
This is partially why : She condemned the riots , she said there was no reason for violence , she expressed her condolences to the family of George Floyd and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key , especially since we ’ re still in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis .
This certainly isn ’ t the time for nationwide riots , particularly over a police action that ’ s been roundly condemned by almost everyone .
Meanwhile , while the left has stayed away from condemning the riots explicitly — either tiptoeing around the subject or explaining them away as a natural reaction to injustice — Melania condemns them , although not in the strong terms her husband did .
In short , this is the kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a first lady .
This is something that the media should be blaring from the metaphorical rooftops .
As for whether or not they will , we already know the answer to that .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The death of George Floyd has been a tragic moment compounded by riots in cities across America — particularly Minneapolis, the city in which Floyd died on Monday.
Floyd’s death has drawn condemnation across the political spectrum. A criminal complaint says that police officer Derrick Chauvin had his knee on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes during an arrest, and Chauvin is now charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
In a video taken by a bystander, Floyd can be clearly heard to say, “I can’t breathe.”
There’s been no shortage of reactions from across the political spectrum, particularly now that riots have reached engulfed the nation from Los Angeles to the White House.
First lady Melania Trump, in her response, highlighted the tragedy of Floyd’s death but said that violence is unnecessary given the situation, particularly given the backdrop of COVID-19:
Our country allows for peaceful protests, but there is no reason for violence. I’ve seen our citizens unify & take care of one another through COVID19 & we can’t stop now. My deepest condolences to the family of George Floyd. As a nation, let’s focus on peace, prayers & healing. — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) May 29, 2020
“Our country allows for peaceful protests, but there is no reason for violence,” the first lady tweeted Friday.
“I’ve seen our citizens unify & take care of one another through COVID19 & we can’t stop now. My deepest condolences to the family of George Floyd. As a nation, let’s focus on peace, prayers & healing.”
Do you think violence is ever an acceptable form of protest? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 4% (73 Votes) No: 96% (1690 Votes)
The post came after a pair of controversial tweets from the president, including one which was flagged by Twitter for violating “the Twitter Rules about glorifying violence.”
“I can’t stand back & watch this happen to a great American City, Minneapolis. A total lack of leadership. Either the very weak Radical Left Mayor, Jacob Frey, get his act together and bring the City under control, or I will send in the National Guard & get the job done right,” President Trump said.
“These THUGS are dishonoring the memory of George Floyd, and I won’t let that happen. Just spoke to Governor Tim Walz and told him that the Military is with him all the way. Any difficulty and we will assume control but, when the looting starts, the shooting starts. Thank you!
I can’t stand back & watch this happen to a great American City, Minneapolis. A total lack of leadership. Either the very weak Radical Left Mayor, Jacob Frey, get his act together and bring the City under control, or I will send in the National Guard & get the job done right….. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 29, 2020
….These THUGS are dishonoring the memory of George Floyd, and I won’t let that happen. Just spoke to Governor Tim Walz and told him that the Military is with him all the way. Any difficulty and we will assume control but, when the looting starts, the shooting starts. Thank you! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 29, 2020
A fair amount of the coverage of Melania Trump’s tweet focused on the divergence of messages between the president and the first lady, usually using that divergence as a jumping-off point to a screed about the Twitter warning.
Leaving aside the fact that Trump pointed out what should have been obvious — he meant that “[l]ooting leads to shooting,” as he tweeted later — the difference in messages is precisely why the president and first lady play different roles in American public life.
The first lady’s job is to bring the country together. That’s inherently difficult given the political climate and Melania’s last name, but she’s done so effectively enough that she’s consistently been the most popular Trump.
This is partially why: She condemned the riots, she said there was no reason for violence, she expressed her condolences to the family of George Floyd and she reminded us all that unity is key, especially since we’re still in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis.
This certainly isn’t the time for nationwide riots, particularly over a police action that’s been roundly condemned by almost everyone.
Meanwhile, while the left has stayed away from condemning the riots explicitly — either tiptoeing around the subject or explaining them away as a natural reaction to injustice — Melania condemns them, although not in the strong terms her husband did.
In short, this is the kind of unifying response one should expect from a first lady.
This is something that the media should be blaring from the metaphorical rooftops. As for whether or not they will, we already know the answer to that.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.