One person died after a house fire in Castle Rock. Castle Rock Fire and Rescue crews rushed to the home near Lewis and Sixth streets about 1 p.m.
When crews first arrived they could see smoke coming from the structure. Firefighters located one person who was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Unfortunately, they did not survive.
The fire was contained less than 20 minutes later. What caused the fire is being investigated.
One person died in a house fire in Castle Rock on the afternoon and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Castle Rock Fire and Rescue said a person reported a house fire just before 1 p.m. When firefighters responded to the scene, which was near the intersection of Lewis Street and Sixth Street — just south of the Castle Rock — they learned a person was possibly trapped in the basement, where the fire was burning.
Crews arrived at 12:59 p.m. and found smoke coming out of the structure, Castle Rock Fire and Rescue said. The firefighters found one person, and they were transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. Authorities said the person died at the hospital. They have not been identified.
The fire was contained around 1:15 p.m. An investigation is underway to determine what started it.
Phil Eden, who lives across the street from the impacted home, said he’s lived in the neighborhood for around 30 years. He’s retired, so he was at home when the fire started, along with his son, Tristen.
“It’s kind of gut-wrenching. It shows how fragile human life is, and the fact that was so close, it kind of, it’s very real,” said Tristen.
Castle Rock Fire and Rescue said no additional information is available.
Portugal, a gem nestled on the Iberian Peninsula, has been steadily gaining popularity as a top tourist destination in recent years. From its picturesque coastlines to its vibrant cities steeped in history and culture, Portugal offers an abundance of experiences for travelers seeking a memorable vacation. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning beaches, rich culinary scene, or fascinating architecture, here’s a comprehensive guide to ensuring your visit to Portugal is nothing short of extraordinary.
Embrace Lisbon’s Allure
Begin your Portuguese adventure in Lisbon, the charismatic capital city that effortlessly blends tradition with modernity. Lose yourself in the winding cobblestone streets of the historic Alfama district, where colorful houses and charming cafes beckon you to explore. Don’t miss iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites that showcase Portugal’s rich maritime history.
Explore Porto’s Enchantment
Next, venture north to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, renowned for its stunning riverside setting and world-class port wine. Wander through the narrow alleys of the Ribeira district, a UNESCO-listed area brimming with medieval architecture and lively taverns. Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can indulge in tastings at historic port wine cellars overlooking the Douro River.
Bask in the Beauty of the Algarve
For sun-seekers and beach lovers, the Algarve region beckons with its pristine coastline and golden sands. Explore secluded coves and hidden grottoes along the rugged cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, or soak up the sun on the expansive beaches of Albufeira and Lagos. Adventure enthusiasts can try their hand at water sports such as surfing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, while nature lovers can embark on scenic coastal hikes or boat tours.
Immerse Yourself in Culture
No visit to Portugal is complete without immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage. Explore the historic town of Sintra, home to enchanting palaces and lush gardens straight out of a fairy tale. Marvel at the intricate azulejos (ceramic tiles) adorning the walls of Portugal’s ornate churches and palaces, and delve into the country’s maritime history at the interactive exhibits of the National Maritime Museum in Lisbon.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Portugal’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, with its tantalizing array of flavors and influences from around the globe. Sample fresh seafood delicacies such as bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and seafood rice in one of Lisbon’s traditional tascas (taverns). Savor hearty Portuguese stews like cozido à portuguesa or feijoada in Porto’s rustic eateries, paired with a glass of robust red wine from the Douro Valley.
Experience Timeless Traditions
Immerse yourself in Portugal’s vibrant culture by experiencing its timeless traditions and festivities. Join in the lively celebrations of Fado, Portugal’s soulful musical genre, in the atmospheric bars of Lisbon’s Bairro Alto district. Witness the colorful spectacle of Lisbon’s annual Santo António festival in June, or immerse yourself in the age-old tradition of Portuguese craftsmanship with a visit to the historic pottery village of Porches.
Practical Tips for a Seamless Vacation
Weather: Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, with spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) being ideal for milder weather and fewer crowds.
Transportation: Portugal boasts an efficient transportation network, including trains, buses, and trams, making it easy to navigate between cities and regions. Consider renting a car to explore remote areas and picturesque countryside.
Accommodation: From luxury resorts to boutique hotels and charming guesthouses, Portugal offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Safety: Portugal is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. Exercise common sense and caution, particularly in crowded tourist areas, and be mindful of pickpockets.
Language: While Portuguese is the official language, many locals in tourist areas speak English fluently. Learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
With its captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Portugal beckons travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Lisbon, savoring port wine in Porto, or lounging on the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve, a vacation in Portugal promises to be an enriching and memorable experience that will linger in your heart for years to come. So pack your bags, and prepare to be enchanted by the timeless allure of Portugal.
A woman has been arrested in Washington state for murder in a cold case involving the death of her newborn baby at an Arizona airport almost 20 years ago, authorities announced this week.
The newborn’s body was found in the trash in a woman’s restroom at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix on Oct. 10, 2005, wrapped inside a plastic bag with the red Marriott hotel logo. It was determined at the time that the newborn, who was about one day old when she died, had not been born in the airport bathroom but was abandoned there. A medical examiner later ruled the baby’s death a homicide by suffocation, according to police.
The infant became known to the public as “Baby Skylar.” Despite widespread media attention, no suspects were named and homicide detectives said the case “went cold after all leads were exhausted.”
But modern forensic testing on the baby’s body several years ago helped law enforcement to identify a potential maternal match, which led them to 51-year-old Annie Anderson, the suspect now charged in the baby’s death. She was visiting Phoenix in October 2005 for a “real estate boot camp,” Lt. James Hester of the Phoenix Police Department told reporters at a news conference Tuesday.
Anderson admitted during an interview with investigators in January 2022 that she was Baby Skylar’s mother, the Phoenix Police Department said in a news release issued Monday and obtained by CBS News. Investigators had traveled to Washington state around that time to execute a search warrant for Anderson after forensic tests were done several months earlier.
Agents with the FBI Phoenix Violent Crime Task Force worked with Phoenix Police cold case detectives to arrange those tests in November 2021. In addition to reviewing existing evidence in the case, which included DNA samples collected from the airport bathroom that were determined to belong to the baby’s mother, the investigators used genetic genealogy to help pinpoint DNA samples that could help find her. Once a potential match was found, they were able to cross-reference it with evidence originally discovered at the crime scene to identify Anderson as a suspect.
At Tuesday’s briefing, Special Agent Dan Horan, who supervises the FBI Phoenix Violent Crime Task Force, described genealogy testing an “identity resolution technique” that uses a publicly available genealogy database to link family matches to an unknown profile. In Baby Skylar’s case, the genealogy tests identified “someone in the family tree” who subsequently consented to their DNA sample being used on a one-time basis to push the investigation along and eventually identify Anderson. Horan declined to share details about the relative.
A grand jury in Maricopa County ultimately issued an arrest warrant for Anderson, on a first-degree murder charge, and she is now in custody in Washington state, police said. Anderson is being held in Washington as she waits to be extradited back to Arizona. She is expected to face multiple felony charges when she returns to Phoenix, police said.
After three seasons as a head coach at New Orleans, Amy Blanke has joined head Coach Jeremy White’s beach volleyball staff at Southeastern Louisiana for this upcoming season.
Blanke’s hire is pending approval of the University of Louisiana System’s Board of Supervisors. Blanke will serve as an assistant coach for the program, in addition to aiding in duties for both indoor and beach volleyball. This addition to Coach White’s staff offers another level of experience as Blanke was a part of several successful seasons at UNO.
During her time at New Orleans, the Privateers achieved a 7-3 record in 2020 before the season was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. Blanke began her time at New Orleans as a volunteer beach volleyball coach in Spring 2017 while accepting a full time position concluding that season. Blanke helped the program accomplish its most successful winning season in 2019 with 15 wins. Amidst her time with the program, the Privateers also advanced to the championship game of the Southland Showcase in 2018.
Blanke also returned to Tulane for a time after helping with the East Valley Junior Volleyball Club and High Performance Arizona in 2014 and 2015. During that time she also competed for the USA U26 National Sand Volleyball-Elite 10 in 2014 and the Arizona Region of the Premier Volleyball League. At the helm of East Valley, Blanke assisted with both male and female athletes to prepare for competition in both local and national tournaments.
Blanke began her collegiate athletic career at Tulane and helped the Green Wave to their best year to date in Tulane’s short four-year history with an 18-10 overall record and a No. 19 national ranking, according to the final DiG Poll. Blanke finished her career at Cleveland State where she posted 1,481 digs, 155 assists, 99 service aces and 10 digs in 425 sets of work with the Vikings. Her career digs total ranks second in school history, while her 545 as a junior and 447 as a senior sit second and ninth in single-season history, respectively. She helped lead Cleveland State to a combined 81-42 record, including a 26-8 mark in 2008 when the Vikings won the Horizon League regular-season title.
The Cleveland, Ohio native earned her bachelor’s degree in health science and psychology at Cleveland State before attaining her master’s degree in exercise science from ULM in May 2013.
The Lady Lions will open week one of the season on the road in the Tulane Invitational to compete against Tulane Friday morning at 8:30 a.m. before matching up against North Alabama at 11 a.m. Southeastern will return Saturday morning to face Oregon at 11 a.m. and Spring Hill at 1:30 p.m. to close out the tournament.
DIGGIN’ IT CLUB / S CLUB
Fans interested in becoming active supporters of the Southeastern volleyball program are encouraged to join the Diggin’ It Club. Lion volleyball alums are encouraged to join the exclusive S Club, which is restricted to Southeastern athletic letter winners.
A Detroit man allegedly gunned down two people in a dorm at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.
Nicholas Jordan, a 25-year-old student enrolled at the university, was arrested on a murder warrant for the deaths of fellow student Samuel Knopp, 24, and Celie Montgomery, a 26-year-old mom of two who wasn’t a student.
What sparked the fatal encounter remains a mystery, but Colorado Springs police said, “This was an isolated incident between individuals who were known to one another,” but didn’t elaborate. Jordan and Knopp were roommates, Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez told NBC News.
Jordan is scheduled to appear in court this afternoon, and Fox News Digital requested multiple documents. But here’s what’s known so far.
Gunshots rang out around 6 a.m. local time on Friday in an upperclassman dorm called the Alpine Village Apartments in Colorado Springs.
Responding officers found Knopp and Montgomery dead inside the dorm room, which triggered an hours-long campus lockdown, as law enforcement searched for a potential active shooter.
Dispatch audio obtained by Fox News Digital revealed first responders were unsure how stable the scene was, or if a gunman was still roaming around campus.
The investigation linked Jordan to the crime, and police secured a warrant for his arrest by Friday night. Detectives searched for him over the weekend, but his name wasn’t publicly released until the evening.
He remained on the loose for most of the day, and police remained tight-lipped about the shooting but reiterated it was an “isolated event.”
The lack of information had students and parents on edge. Classes were canceled.
Shortly before 8 a.m, Colorado Springs Police Department’s Motor Vehicle Theft Unit spotted Jordan, police said on X (formerly Twitter).
A tactical team swarmed the location and arrested him without incident by 8:37 a.m. He was booked on two counts of first-degree murder in the El Paso County, Colorado, jail, and is being held on $1 million bond, according to inmate records.
Polish farmers are staging protests against cheap Ukrainian grain flooding the market and EU regulations on pesticide and fertiliser usage.
Tractors flying Polish flags blocked motorways and major junctions in almost 200 locations, organisers said.
Blockades are also taking place at several border crossings with Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the protests demonstrated the “daily erosion of solidarity” with Ukraine.
He said the protests were about politics, not grain, because “only 5% of our agricultural exports pass through the Polish border”.
Footage on social media appeared to show grain being spilled onto a train track from a goods wagon at the Medyka crossing.
Ukraine’s ambassador to Poland, Vasyl Zvarych, said the spilled grain was Ukrainian and condemned the action.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Zvarych said: “The police should react decisively and punish those who break the law. It is also a lack of respect for the work of Ukrainian farmers in conditions of Russian aggression towards themselves and others. Shame and disgrace, gentlemen!”
A Ukrainian deputy prime minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov, called the act a “political provocation aimed at dividing our nations”.
Ukrainian lorry drivers said they would retaliate and blockade Polish drivers at three crossings on their side of the border.
There are huge queues of lorries at several border crossings following protests over recent months. Clearing customs at one crossing is now taking more than two weeks.
Polish protest organisers are demanding the introduction of an import ban on Ukrainian agriculture products and the scrapping of restrictions on the use of fertilisers and pesticides under the EU Green Deal.
The EU allowed Ukraine tariff-free access to its markets following Russia’s invasion.
Polish dealers bought up the cheap Ukrainian grain, but a lack of port infrastructure meant much of the grain remained in Poland rather than being exported to third countries.
That caused stockpiles of grain in Poland to reach record high levels last year.
In May, the European Commission introduced an import ban on Ukrainian grain to five neighbouring countries, although this did not apply to grain meant for transit. When the ban was lifted in September, Poland unilaterally introduced its own ban on four types of grains, as well as flour and animal feed.
Poland‘s new pro-EU government is sympathetic to the farmers’ demands and is urging Brussels to reach a compromise over imports with Ukraine.
In January, the EU said it would introduce a “safeguard mechanism” that would allow it to reimpose emergency tariffs on Ukraine if an excess of imports threatened to destabilise the market.
Nestled in the heart of Texas, Cypress offers a blend of urban sophistication and small-town charm that sets the stage for a memorable vacation experience. While it might not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a getaway, Cypress boasts a variety of attractions and activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie looking to indulge in culinary delights, Cypress has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your vacation in Cypress, TX.
Explore the Great Outdoors:
Cypress is renowned for its picturesque natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Begin your adventure by visiting the Cypress Creek Greenway Project, a sprawling network of trails that wind through lush forests, tranquil creeks, and scenic parks. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or birdwatching, this expansive greenway offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.
For a more immersive outdoor experience, head to the Cypress Top Historic Park, where you can explore historic structures dating back to the early 20th century and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Dive into Local Culture and History:
Delve into Cypress’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting attractions such as the Cypress Historical Society Museum and the Cypress Top Historic Park. These sites offer fascinating insights into the region’s past, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle Cypress’s evolution from a rural outpost to a thriving community.
Additionally, consider taking a guided tour of nearby historic sites, such as the George Ranch Historical Park or the Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in the stories of Texas pioneers and explore meticulously curated botanical collections.
Indulge in Culinary Delights:
No vacation is complete without savoring the local cuisine, and Cypress offers a diverse array of dining options to tantalize your taste buds. From authentic Tex-Mex eateries to upscale restaurants serving gourmet fare, there’s no shortage of culinary experiences to enjoy.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Cypress’s charming cafes or brunch spots, then venture out to discover hidden culinary gems tucked away in local neighborhoods. Be sure to sample regional specialties like Texas barbecue, Southern comfort food, and fresh Gulf seafood for an authentic taste of the Lone Star State.
Relax and Unwind:
After a day of exploration, treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation at one of Cypress’s luxurious spas or wellness retreats. Whether you prefer a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a restorative yoga session, you’ll find plenty of options to pamper yourself and unwind from the stresses of everyday life.
Alternatively, spend a leisurely afternoon browsing local boutiques and artisan shops, where you can pick up unique souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures to commemorate your visit to Cypress.
With its diverse array of attractions, activities, and culinary delights, Cypress, TX, offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for your next vacation getaway. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in local culture and history, or indulging in culinary delights, Cypress has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this hidden gem of Texas.
HONOLULU – The University of Hawai’i beach volleyball team opens its 2024 campaign with the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic, Feb. 22-24, at Queen’s Beach. Joining the No. 9 BeachBows is preseason No. 1 USC, as well as No. 2 UCLA, No. 5 LMU and No. 7 Stanford. The team’s will play a round-robin format all-day Thursday and Friday before competing in championship bracket play on Saturday.
All-Time Series Records: UH is 3-15 all-time against USC, including three straight losses…the teams have only met once in the last four years, a 5-0 USC victory in the 2022 East Meets West Invitational in Manhattan Beach…UH is 6-14 versus UCLA…the Bruins have won the last 11 matches and 12 of the last 13, including a pair of meetings last year…UCLA has opened the season six of the last seven years in Honolulu and UH is 1-7 against them at home…UH is 10-4 versus Stanford, including 7-3 in Honolulu…like UCLA, this is the sixth time in the last seven seasons the Cardinal open the season in Hawai’i…UH is 12-4 all-time against LMU, including a 9-1 mark in Honolulu… the Lions though have won the last three meetings and have ended UH’s season in each of the last two NCAA Tournaments.
The Squad: UH’s roster totals 21 players…the BeachBows return 16 players from last year’s team that went 27-9 overall and placed No. 10 in the final AVCA rankings.…headlining the returnees is two-time All-American Kaylee Glagau who returns for her fourth and final season as a BeachBow…all-conference players Jaime Santer, Riley Wagoner, Sydney Miller and Pani Napoleon are also back …UH welcomes four newcomers on the squad, including transfer Alana Embry, who went a perfect 43-0 at Grossmont College last year, as well as international standout Julia Lawrenz and Julia Thelle…Lawrenz and Thelle are part of a diverse roster that includes players from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Guam, and Norway, as well as five different U.S. states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Ohio, and Oregon).
The Skipper: Evan Silberstein enters his 10th season overall in the program and his third season as the head coach for the BeachBows…Silberstein owns a 51-26 record in three seasons while leading the Rainbow Wahine to the NCAAs in each of his first two years at the helm…he was named 2022 co-Big West Coach of the Year following his inaugural season as head coach…during his time as both a head coach and assistant he has helped lead UH to three Big West titles and seven post-season appearances, including six in the NCAA Tournament…UH also welcomes first-year assistant coach Armen Zakarian to the staff…a former outside hitter and libero at UC Santa Barbara, Zakarian was head coach at West Valley College and Santa Barbara City College and also enjoyed a successful stint as an assistant for the UC Irvine men’s indoor squad.
The Schedule: The OUTRIGGER Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic is one of two events in the first three weeks that UH will host at Queen’s Beach…the ‘Bows will also hold the Heineken Queen’s Cup, March 7-9 …UH’s third and final home event sees them host Chaminade, Grand Canyon and Portland during Senior Weekend (April 13-14) on campus at the Ching Complex…in all, UH will face 13 squads that are in the AVCA preseason Top 20, including every single team in the Top 10.…this year’s Big West Championship will be held April 25-26 in Long Beach, Calif., while the 2024 NCAA Championships will once again be held in Gulf Shores, Ala., May 3-5.
A Dayton man died following a crash in Riverside Sunday afternoon that also sent three people area hospitals.
Those other injuries were non-life-threatening according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Around 3:21 p.m, troopers received a report of a two-vehicle crash at the Harshman Road and state Route 4 intersection.
A preliminary investigation indicated a 2019 Nissan Altima driven by 57-year-old Leonard La Poma was turning onto Harshman Road from the northbound off ramp when the car was hit by a 2023 Hyundai heading southeast on Harshman Road.
La Poma was pronounced dead at the scene, according to troopers. The woman driving the Hyundai was taken to Miami Valley Hospital. Two juveniles in the Hyundai were transported to Dayton Children’s Hospital.
Riverside police and fire crews assisted OSHP at the scene.
