As we head into spring break, some Panthers are in dire need of a break because of stress or even bad allergies. Georgia just shattered the pollen count record with 14,801 grains of pollen per cubic meter. To start off your spring break, we have US wildfire risks, a delivery driver accused of stealing mail, art districts asking for citizen opinions, and the firing of the Director of National Security.
National – On the heels of a dry winter, firefighters around the US brace for wildfire risks
Around the US, many states recorded record low snowfall this year, with the country average falling an inch under normal. This has led to a dry and windy climate, perfect for the rapid spreading of wildfires.
Over 1,000 firefighters attended an annual wildfire academy in Arizona. Following the Los Angeles fire earlier this year, many communities are taking initiative to raise awareness for wildfire prevention. The US has seen the third driest winter on record, so there has been very little precipitation, even atop mountains. Because of the minimal snow on mountain peaks, there is little to stop wildfires from spreading uncontrollably.
Before having any sort of campfire or bonfire, make sure to check if your area is under any sort of wildfire warning. Even if your area is not under a warning, monitor all fires closely and only build fires in controlled fire pits.
State – Delivery driver accused of stealing mail booked into Cobb County jail
Lashawn Crumble, a delivery company subcontractor, was arrested for possessing stolen mail during a stop in Kennesaw. Police say they saw dozens of open and unopened mail in her vehicle at the stop.
An officer pulled Crumble over on March 30 because her brake lights were out. While talking to Crumble, the officer said that her breath smelled of marijuana, which led to the search of her vehicle. Police reported a small amount of drugs, but nearly 50 open and unopened packages were also found that belonged to people around metro Atlanta.
When asked, Crumble stated that her company gave her permission to dumpster-dive and look for any packages that are thrown away. After checking with the company, they denied her claim, and Crumble was taken into custody.
Local – Fayetteville art district enhancements ask for citizen opinions
With the enhancements to the art district in downtown Fayetteville, the city has asked for the public’s opinions on the subject. On March 26, Fayetteville held a workshop where they had citizens add their input.
The event went from 5-7 p.m. where the people that attended were presented with interactive stations and a consultant team. Lead engineer Cooper Carry is focusing on placing strategies for walkability and connectivity. The engineers on the project are focusing on what the public wants to see and how to improve the original ideas.
As of right now the plan for the district is to have public murals, sculptures, and public art. The city wants to add character to Fayetteville while also improving safety and roadways.
Politics – Director of National Security Agency, others fired
According to the top Democrats on the congressional committees, US Director of the National Security Agency General Tim Haugh was reportedly fired. President Donald Trump fired him on April 3.
Along with Haugh, Wendy Noble had also been dismissed from her roles as a civilian deputy at the NSA. Hugh also headed the US Cyber Command, which coordinates the Pentagon’s cybersecurity operations. Overseer of international organizations at the White House National Security Council Maggie Dougherty was also let go.
Social media personality Laura Loomer raised concerns to Trump about staff loyalty, which supposedly motivated Trump to make serious cuts. This move caught lots of intelligence officials by surprise and has allowed for angry backlash from congressional Democrats.