‘You Have Demonized Our Kids’: Little Elm High School Parents Lecture School Board Over Police Handling Of Student Walkout

LITTLE ELM, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – What was billed as a “listening session” turned into a heated meeting Tuesday night in Little Elm.

It turned into a lecture from outraged parents who are upset over a student walkout nearly two weeks ago that led to police deploying Tasers and pepper spray.

Angry families demanded accountability of Little Elm ISD administrators for their handling of sexual assault complaints within the high school as well as the harsh police response to a student demonstration.

Parents of students who were on the receiving end of Tasers and pepper spray inside Little Elm High School didn’t hold back during their chance to confront the school board over the police response 11 days ago to a student protest.

“You have demonized our kids, demonized the sexual assault victims, allowed our children to be tased, manhandled, arrested and jailed,” said one parent.

“What went on at this school on November 19th was unacceptable,” said another.

The heavy-handed tactics used by officers happened during a walkout by students in support of female classmates complaining of sexual abuse.

The father of the sophomore who students were demonstrating in support of, accused the school district of not believing her claims of being molested on a bus.

After the meeting, Jaelyn Alvarez told CBS 11 she stands by her account and hope’s Tuesday night’s meeting will get her heard.

“Not only my father but other parents have brought my voice and others out so now we’re being heard, because we before we weren’t really been taken seriously, and now I think this is happening we’re gonna be taking way more seriously,” said Alvarez.

One thing the parents seemed to agree on is they don’t want the officers who deployed pepper spray and used tasers on students to be on campus unless there’s an emergency, saying they have lost the trust of those they are supposed to protect.

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Some Families Of Astroworld Crowd Surge Victims Turn Down Travis Scott’s Offer To Pay For Funerals

HOUSTON (CBSDFW.COM/AP) – Several families of the 10 people who died from injuries in a massive crowd surge at the Astroworld festival have turned down an offer by headliner Travis Scott to pay for their loved ones’ funeral costs.

Attorneys for the families of four of the victims said Tuesday, Nov. 30 that they received a letter from Scott’s attorney, Daniel Petrocelli, in which the offer was made.

In a letter sent Nov. 24 to the attorneys for the family of 9-year-old Ezra Blount, Petrocelli said Scott extended his “deepest sympathies and condolences” to Ezra’s father, Treston Blount, and Scott had wanted to reach out personally “but does not wish to intrude on Mr. Blount’s privacy during his time of grieving.”

Ezra was the youngest person to die from injuries suffered during Scott’s concert at the sold-out festival on Nov. 5 that was attended by 50,000 people. The others who died ranged in age from 14 to 27. Some 300 people were treated at the festival site and 13 were hospitalized.

“Travis is devastated by the tragedy that occurred at the Astroworld Festival and grieves for the families whose loved ones died or were injured. Travis is committed to doing his part to help the families who have suffered and begin the long process of healing in the Houston community,” Petrocelli wrote.

In his reply, Robert Hilliard, an attorney representing Treston Blount in a lawsuit against Scott, the concert promoter and others, declined the offer, saying that while he believes Scott feels remorse, Scott must see “that he bears some of the responsibility for this tragedy.”

“And perhaps one day, once time allows some healing for the victims and acceptance of responsibility by Mr. Scott and others, Treston and Mr. Scott might meet — as there is also healing in that,” Hilliard said. “For now, Mr. Scott must respect the fact that his pain and his devastation pale to Treston’s, Ezra’s mom, and the other victims.”

Petrocelli did not immediately return a call or email seeking comment Tuesday.

Michael Lyons, an attorney for the family of 27-year-old Mirza “Danish” Baig, said he viewed the offer to pay for funeral costs partly as a public relations ploy by Scott to “soften people up” in the court of public opinion. Baig’s family declined the offer, he said.

“Sadly, for my clients, a check from Travis Scott … is not going to relieve the pain and suffering that they presently are experiencing,” Lyons said. “I think it will only make it worse.”

Richard Mithoff, an attorney for the family of 14-year-old John Hilgert, also declined Scott’s offer.

Valerie Cortinas Fisher, a lawyer for the family of 23-year-old Rodolfo “Rudy” Peña, said her clients are grieving and have yet to consider Scott’s offer.

Peña’s family, who is from Laredo, Texas, traveled to Houston on Monday to visit a memorial site near where the concert was held.

Maria de los Angeles Peña, Rodolfo Peña’s mother, remembered her son a joyful person who loved life and was a good student.

“I want to say to the world, take care of your children, pray for them, watch where they go, and Travis Scott, God bless him. How there is earthly law, there is also divine law,” she said.

Tony Buzbee, who is representing the family of 21-year-old Axel Acosta Avila, said in an email Tuesday he had received a voicemail from a lawyer who was not Petrocelli making an offer for funeral expenses.

“The offer made didn’t warrant a response,” Buzbee said.

Attorneys for the families of others who died at the festival did not immediately return emails or calls seeking comment.

Scott and the event organizers are the focus of a criminal investigation by Houston police. No timetable has been set for when the investigation would be completed.

(© Copyright 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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New Texas Rules Requiring Oil And Gas Producers To Winterize Not In Time For This Winter

AUSTIN, Texas (CBSDFW.COM/AP) – Regulators of Texas’ oil and gas industry that buckled during February’s deadly freeze moved Tuesday, Nov. 30 toward making some producers more prepared for cold weather, but not in time for this winter as the nation’s power grid monitor warned the state is still at risk of blackouts.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott is guaranteeing the lights will stay on this winter.

But energy experts are less confident and say Texas’ response over the last nine months to a winter storm that killed hundreds of people — including some who froze to death after power was knocked out to the proud energy capital of the U.S. for days — has been insufficient.

Some were concerned that gas operators that froze up in February — cutting off fuel to power plants — would be able to skirt new weatherization mandates by seeking exemptions.

But gas supply deemed critical by the state could not avoid doing so under new rules passed Tuesday, according to state regulators, which critics agreed amounted to an improvement.

“It is not simply a get-out-of-jail-free card,” said Matt Garner, an attorney with the Texas Railroad Commission, the state’s peculiarly named agency that regulates the oil and gas industry.

A recent annual winter forecast by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, which oversees the reliability of the nation’s electrical sector, projected Texas could have a nearly 40% shortfall in available power to meet demand in the event of another severe storm this winter. Officials behind that forecast said such an extreme scenario is not highly likely, but cannot be ruled out.

The February storm led to one of the biggest power outages in U.S. history, knocking out electricity to more than 4 million customers and leading to hundreds of deaths. Some homes were left without heat and water for days.

According t o a report by federal officials in September, freezing issues were the largest cause of outages, at 44%. That included frozen instruments and wind turbine blades. Fuel supply problems were the next biggest factor, at 31%. Supply issues were mostly related to natural gas, including frozen wellheads.

The process for requiring gas operators to weatherize won’t begin until next year.

“They won’t be prepared for this winter, and that’s something everybody needs to be clear about,” said Virginia Palacios, executive commissioner of Commission Shift, a group that calls for more accountability from state energy regulators.

(© Copyright 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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Be Wary Of Online Puppy Purchases; Veterinarian Group Says Pet Scams Are Rampant, Particularly In Texas

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – Thinking of adding a furry family member this holiday season?

Experts say be wary of buying a pet online.

A new study by Veterinarians.org shows pet scams, especially involving puppies, are rampant, especially since COVID-19 began.

Texas ranked second in the country.

“A lot of people were turning to animals as a form of therapy,” said Lily Velez, the author of the Puppy Scam Report. “And unfortunately, a lot of the scam artists saw an opportunity to put up these fraudulent puppy sites.”

Ron Dunbar learned that after he thought he had picked out the perfect puppy for his wife on braveshihtzu.com.

“And then the next day, I actually talked to [the seller] on the phone for an extensive length of time,” he said.

It was only after he shelled out thousands of dollars that he realized – there was no puppy.

“I’m not proud of it, but I’m out $4,680,” he said.

The Better Business Bureau said the number of victims is climbing daily.

They have nearly 300 reports so far this year in Texas alone, costing victims more than $225,000.

“A lot of times these are just stock photos, and the animal you’re looking at doesn’t even exist,” said Amy Rasor, Ft. Worth Regional Director with the Better Business Bureau.

Velez said one red flag is if the seller won’t let you see the puppy – or at least provide time-stamped pictures and videos.

She says another is if the seller asks for an electronic payment or gift card, and if the breeder can’t provide health records, American Kennel Club certification, or information on the puppy’s parents.

And one way to guarantee your new best friend is real? Adopt from a shelter or rescue group.

“A lot of these places still have animals that are looking for homes. And this gives you the possibility to interact with the animal in person to make sure it’s the right fit for your household,” said Velez.

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Giving Tuesday: CBS 11 I-Team Digs Into Where Money You Give To Charities Goes

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – Giving Tuesday is all about gratitude, but the CBS 11 I-Team shares examples of why you need to give with not just your heart, but your head.

In recent years, according to a case filed by the Federal Trade Commission, a charity called Help the Vets told donors “Your 10-dollar gift will mean so much to a disabled veteran…”; however, according to the FTC complaint “95% (of donations)…were spent on fundraising, administrative expenses and salaries.”

A law firm representing Help the Vets would not comment on the accusations.

In another case, the FTC states Cancer Fund of America, Incorporated “took in millions…but spent it on themselves and their fundraisers.”

An attorney who represented Cancer Fund of America told the I-Team, “CFA denied the allegation made by the FTC in the lawsuit.”

And, just this year, Associated Community Services became one of many companies permanently prohibited from fundraising.

An FTC complaint states the defendants knew the charities they promoted were keeping “as much as 90 cents of every dollar solicited.”

An attorney representing Associated Community Services sent the I-Team a statement: “ACS denies the allegations that were made against it, and it did not admit any wrongdoing in settling this matter involving actions from many years ago. ACS simply did not have the resources to defend against the government here.”

In press releases, the Federal Trade Commission states “Giving Tuesday is a great time to show your gratitude by donating to help others. But you don’t want to give money to a fake charity or scammer (any day of the week).”

“Whether you’re donating a car or boat, or giving money, or even just canned goods, you have to be really careful that the organizations that you are giving to are legitimate businesses and there’s ways to check on these things,” says Attorney Jim Elliott, Assistant Regional Director, Federal Trade Commission, Southwest Regional.

The FTC just released an alert titled “How To Donate Safely This Giving Tuesday.”

Federal agents say you need to slow down. Don’t be pressured into giving- particularly over the phone.

Know who is making the request. Watch for crooks using names similar to well-known charities.

And most importantly- research the cause.

The FTC recommends going to Charity Watch.

The watchdog website rates charities.

It was founded in 1992 when there was no place to research them. “…now we have the opposite problem” says Executive Director Laurie Styron, Executive Director.

“Now there is almost too much information out there about charities and a lot of it is unfortunately, from industry and trade associations or from the charities themselves.”

Styron says don’t be afraid to ask questions:

–Who are you?

–What portion of my donation will be used on the program I want to support?

Charity Watch’s website contains the financial statements of hundreds of charities. You can look up the percentage an organization reports spending on administrative fees and overhead.

“So generally speaking, highly efficient nonprofits are able to spend at the 75% of their budgets on programs and keep their overhead down to at least 25% or less,” explains Styron.

Chief Relationship Office for Charity Navigator Kevin Scally agrees.

“We typically recommend that folks look for 70% or more that’s actually going towards the programs and the rest of that goes towards fundraising and overhead,” says Scally.

The FTC is also recommending you search the Charity Navigator.

It uses metrics to apply point values for an overall charity rating.

“You can look at their financial rating, and…feel good about donating if it’s a passing score for us,” says Scally.

Charity Navigator also warns you of organizations that have either confirmed or reported misconduct.

“One would be Central Coast Kids…focused on assisting children with special needs, “ says Scally. “The founder and director was actually sent to prison for 40 years for tax evasion, embezzlement, submitting false invoices.”

Before donating, you should also check with the Better Business Bureau.

And…

–Type in the name of the charity along with the words “scam,” “warning,” or “fraud” on a search engine.

Also remember…

–Always pay by credit card or check- not cash.

–Follow up and review your records to make sure the charge is correct.

–And finally, be aware of scammer’s tricks. Watch your caller ID. Crooks may change the call number to appear local. Or, they may act as though you’ve donated to them before.

–If you are giving to a charity based in another state, go to the state’s online charity verification site. This is typically regulated by the Attorney General’s Office or the Secretary of State. You should find public filings and tax returns there.

But be aware, in Texas, we do not have that. Most charities based here are not required to register with the state.

Tis the season to avoid scams!

“These organizations are out there,” says Elliott. “They want to take that money out of your pocket. They will say anything to get that done.”

To file a report or complaint about a charity, click here.

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‘Georgia’s Defense Is Just So Good’: CBS Sports’ Houston Nutt Previews SEC And Conference USA Championships

(CBS DFW) — Week 14 of the college football season brings plenty of conference championship action. Ten championships are on the line. Bowl games and the College Football Playoff will follow in the weeks to come, with bids still possibly riding on this weekend’s results.

CBS and CBS Sports Network have a couple of strong matchups on the schedule. Top-ranked and undefeated Georgia meets fourth-ranked Alabama in the SEC Championship. Western Kentucky, riding a seven-game winning streak, faces the formerly ranked University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) in the Conference USA Championship. CBS’s Norm Elrod talked to CBS Sports’ Houston Nutt about the matchups.

SEC Championship:

#1 Georgia @ #4 Alabama, Saturday, December 4, 4:00 p.m. ET on CBS

The Georgia defense has only allowed four teams to reach double digits. That said, they haven’t faced many elite offenses. Tennessee did score 17 points a few weeks back. What does this Georgia defense do that makes it so difficult for opposing offenses?

They have an unbelievable front, where they can play that front seven, without blitzing so much. And when you can rush four and then cover with seven, it gives you such a great advantage. But now Kirby mixing in the zone pressures with these blitzes, it can keep a quarterback so off-balance. And they have the speed to get home. And when you can rush the way Georgia can rush the passer, it can be disruptive. They’re so good at mixing things up. But the biggest thing is Jordan Davis and that front. They don’t need much help. And when you don’t need much help, it just gives the secondary more cushion and help to be able to stop the pass and explosive plays. But Kirby loves to bring it, he loves to bring five, six, even a seventh guy. He’ll keep them off balance. They’ve done a good job. Very few teams have been able to score. So I can’t wait to see this game.

How should the Alabama offense, led by Bryce Young, attack this Georgia defense? Should their recent struggles against Auburn raise concerns?

That’s one film Kirby will watch real hard. I thought Auburn did an unbelievable job of playing defense against Alabama. Derek Mason had a great plan. And so, saying that, you can bet that Alabama will be very, very focused.

One of the most important things is Jameson Williams. Jameson needs to stay on the field. You have to have speed outside, because they can take away your best plays. One of the best things to do against a Georgia team, when you run so fast, is to get them moving early. What I mean by that is a reverse in the first 10 plays, boots and waggles, move the launching point. Georgia is so good that, if you’re vanilla, especially early, you’re going to be behind the count. So it’s very, very important that you get off and stay with the count. And what I mean by that is four yards, four yards, three yards. You can’t get second and 12, third and 12 with this bunch, because they just smell blood. They’re so good.

So I would mix it up early, screens, draws, boots, and waggles, a reverse early. Misdirection screen, get buys in space early and really try to get the defense running. That’s your best chance to get against this bunch. One thing that people don’t know about is the secondary of Georgia. Why? Because the front is so good, and very few teams have been able to get the ball down the field consistently, because they get home with the rush. It’s important that the quarterback has a time clock and be able to mix things up, especially early on.

Georgia hasn’t played a close game since their Week 1 win over Clemson. Alabama has been tested by Florida, Texas A&M and Auburn. This seems like the SEC Championship matchup that was destined to happen. How do you see it playing out?

Georgia’s defense is just so good. The thing is I still believe that Bryce Young is so good too, with his wide receivers. If they can get the ball off and move things around — try to get them off balance and test the secondary early. If you can get some field position and cross that 50 a few times, it will be a whole different ballgame.

The one thing about Georgia is they get you backed up. They win field position. They block a punt, and all of a sudden it’s downhill and you’re looking up out of the well. You’re you’re having such a hard time staying on the field.

I think it will be close for a half. But Georgia’s defense is just so elite and so fast. They give you so many problems. I just don’t how Alabama, right now, for four quarters, can stay on that field and produce points. Nobody has yet. But it’s hard to count out Bryce Young. I’m a big believer in Bryce Young, but he has to have that time block in his head. I’m going to lean toward Georgia.

Conference USA Championship:

Western Kentucky @ UTSA, Friday, December 3, 7:00 p.m. on CBS Sports Network 

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers-University of Texas San Antonio Roadrunners

UTSA’s loss last week ruined their undefeated season and dropped them out of the top 25. How do they recover against Western Kentucky in the Conference USA Championship?

What happens is, when you lose your first game after you’ve been undefeated all year long, you have a different focus. So Western Kentucky is catching UTSA at the wrong time. They’ll be so laser-focused. They’re hurting from that loss. They haven’t experienced it all year. So this timing, if you’re UTSA, you’d probably think that this might really help us. If you’re Western Kentucky, you have to keep doing what you’ve been doing. Zappe has been great. These guys are fun to watch. They know how to get the ball up and down the field. You can bet that UTSA will come with a laser-focus, and they’ll be ready to get that medicine, that one dose of medicine. And that’s a win.

Western Kentucky started the season 1-4, with their last loss coming against UTSA. What has led to their current 7-game winning streak, and can they make it 8 wins in a row against UTSA?

When you look at Western Kentucky, it just looks like a completely different team. If you look at the first three or four games, they weren’t playing very clean, missed assignments, loss-of-yardage plays. But, all of a sudden you look at these last four, five, six games, Zappe very accurate. The game is clean. He gets them out of the wrong play, gets into the right play. Quick release. Things look so good, and Western Kentucky is playing good defense as well. So, when you have that together, you start to believe. When you keep getting better at the end of the year, there’s confidence that’s built. Confidence, and they’ve cleaned things up. And Zappe has been outstanding.

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3 Killed, 8 Wounded In Shooting At Michigan High School

OXFORD, Michigan (CBS NEWS) – A 15-year-old student opened fire inside a Michigan high school Tuesday, Nov. 30, killing three people and wounding eight others, authorities said.

The suspect, who has not been named, was taken into custody without incident, they said.

READ FULL CBS NEWS COVERAGE HERE

Police cars restrict access to Oxford High School following a shooting on November 30, 2021 in Oxford, Michigan. (Photo by Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images)

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‘Intoxiflation’: Despite Higher Prices, Floridians Will Continue Buying Booze Over Holiday Season

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – As prices continue to rise, some people are cutting back on what they purchase – except when it comes to booze.

DrugAbuse.com, a leading provider of substance abuse treatment resources, carried out a survey of 3,818 Americans and discovered an interesting response to ‘intoxiflation’. The survey found that almost 2 in 3 (64%) Floridians will continue buying the same amount of alcohol they usually would throughout the holiday season, regardless of inflated alcohol costs.

This compares to a national average of 59%.

People in Vermont were most willing to spend money on alcohol – 90% said they will continue buying the same amount despite inflated costs. On the opposite side, only about 40% in New Mexico said they would do so.

The survey also found more than a third of Americans (37%) consider alcohol an essential purchase.

Additionally, more than 1 in 3 people think the government should reduce alcohol taxes if inflation, currently at its highest level since the 1920s, increases in order to keep costs low.

Thirty-two percent of drinkers will simply switch to cheaper, less well-known brands if prices go above their threshold.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. prices for alcoholic beverages were a startling 565.88% higher in 2021 versus 1952. Between these years (1952 to 2021), alcohol experienced an average inflation rate of 2.79% each year.

The survey by DrugAbuse.com also asked people what rate alcohol inflation would have to reach in order for them to cut down on their purchases. Overall, the average drinker said that an increase of 8.79% would make them buy less booze.

When asked which holidays they would rather spend sober, if they had to make that choice, 41% said Christmas Day, followed by 29% who said Thanksgiving. Just 12% said New Year’s Eve.

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UT Southwestern agrees to pay $4.5M over alleged controlled substance violations

An investigation into the medical center started in 2018 after two nurses were found dead from drug overdoses in hospital bathrooms 16 months apart.

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Life In Prison Without Parole For Texas Woman Convicted Of Capital Murder Of 2 Kansas Carnival Vendors

GREAT BEND, Kansas (CBSDFW.COM/AP) – A Texas woman has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for her role in the deaths of a Kansas couple who were killed on the orders of a carnival worker as part of a fictitious “ carnival mafia” initiation.

Kimberley Stacey Younger, 55, of Aransas Pass, Texas, was sentenced Monday, Nov. 29 for capital murder in the deaths of Alfred Carpenter, 78, and his 79-year-old wife, Pauline, the Kansas Attorney General’s office announced.

Younger was one of four people convicted for their roles in the couple’s deaths in July 2018.

Kimberley Stacey Younger (Crawford County Sheriff’s Office)

Investigators said one of the suspects ordered others to kill the Carpenters as part of an initiation rite into a “carnival mafia,” which didn’t exist.

The Carpenters were killed after working at the Barton County Fair. Their bodies were found in a national forest near Van Buren, Arkansas.

Younger was also sentenced to just over 20 years for conspiracy to commit murder, solicitation to commit murder and theft. The sentences will be served consecutively.

Rusty Frasier, 37, of Aransas Pass, Texas, was sentenced last year to life without parole for 50 years on each of two counts of first-degree murder.

Michael Fowler, 56, of Sarasota, Florida, was previously sentenced to life for first-degree murder and theft. Christine Tenney, 40, of La Marque, Texas, was sentenced to nearly six years in prison for aggravated robbery and eight months for obstructing apprehension.

(© Copyright 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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Oh Poop! Suspects Wanted For Arson In Southlake After Blowing Up Porta Potty With Fireworks

SOUTHLAKE, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – Police in Southlake are looking for an arsonist (and whomever drove the arsonist) who used fireworks to cause an explosion inside a porta potty.

Southlake DPS said it happened on Thursday, Nov. 18 around 7:45 p.m. at 1371 Brumlow Avenue.

The incident was caught on Ring video (watch above).

Police said a white or silver Ford F-150 pulled into a construction area. The truck had black rims, a hitch, a sunroof, and a hard black bed cover.

It drove through the parking lot a few times before finally backing into a little area that looked concealed from view.

Porta Potty explosion suspect vehicle (credit: Southlake DPS).

A man in his late teens or early 20s got out on the passenger side and sprinted to a Porta Potty next to a building.

Southlake DPS had a little fun explaining it all in their social media post.

“He lit some fireworks, tossed them in, and raced back to the truck huffing and puffing. He was probably pooped from that sprint.”

Seconds later, the Porta Potty was engulfed in flames and sparkles, police said and the truck sped off.

Southlake Fire responded quickly after to put out the fire.

“Suspect Number One wore a dark hoodie, khaki shorts, and white tennis shoes. We couldn’t see the driver, who we’d call Suspect Number Two,” Southlake DPS said in a Facebook post.

Police said the fire damaged the building, a trailer along with the $5,000 Porta Potty.

“Fair audience, DON’T be those people in the comments mouthing off about “kids being kids,” or how “you used to do way much worse when you were young.” This isn’t your neighborhood Facebook page where stuff like that is going to fly. This is a serious crime. This is a felony,” Southlake DPS said.

Anyone with information on the suspects can contact criminal analyst Diana Smith at 817-748-8915 or email her at DSmith@ci.southlake.tx.us.

“As always, you can send us a message through any of our social channels,” Southlake DPS said. “Get to work, gumshoes!”

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Arlington Police Associations To Present ‘No Confidence’ Petitions To City Council Regarding Chief Al Jones

ARLINGTON, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – Arlington Police Chief Al Jones has lost the confidence of more than half of the city’s officers, according to a petition at least two police associations plan to present to city leaders Tuesday night, Nov. 30.

The lack of support for the chief follows his firing of an officer in October, two days after a pursuit and fatal shooting.

That decision was made with a lack of due process for Officer Robert Phillips, and before all the witnesses to the shooting had even been interviewed, according to Chris CeBallos, Presidents of the Arlington Municipal Patrolman’s Association.

Officer Phillips was a 7-year veteran with the Arlington Police Department.

The petition was signed by 362 out of 671 officers, according to Ceballos, who said 34 of those not signing are recruits who are not yet sworn in.

Police associations gathered signatures over the past several weeks, after meeting in early November to discuss Jones’ actions and leadership.

Jones, who declined to comment on the matter Tuesday, took over as the chief in January, after working with Baltimore County Police in Maryland.

Arlington Police Chief Al Jones (Credit: City of Arlington)

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Fort Worth Leaders Ring In Salvation Army’s North Texas Red Kettle Campaign

FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM) – On Giving Tuesday, the Salvation Army of North Texas kicked off Red Kettle season in Fort Worth with some help from the City Council.

The first official bell was rung by Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, but it certainly won’t be the last.

Volunteers with the  Salvation Army of North Texas will be bell-ringing all season long.

All donations to the organization’s Red Kettle campaign goes directly back into the DFW community to help those fighting poverty, addiction and homelessness, all of which has worsened due to the pandemic.

Since March 2020, the Salvation Army of North Texas has provided just under 7 million meals to those in need.

The campaign is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Salvation Army of North Texas and organizers say it couldn’t be more important to have the support of Fort Worth leaders.

“ it’s amazing the leadership of the community. We need the community to support us, particularly this time of the year,” said Major Todd Hawks, Commander of the Salvation Army of North Texas.

“We appreciate the Mayor and her leadership across the community as we kick off the kettle. I think it sends a signal that leadership is behind something like this so that everyone else wants to be apart as well.”

The organization still needs volunteers to help bell ringing this season.

They also say there’s thousands of angels who still need to be adopted from their annual Salvation Army angel tree.

For more information on Angel Tree, click here.

To register to ring a bell at a kettle, click here.

 

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Supply Chain Issues: How Are Global Shortages Affecting Local Customers?

(CBS Baltimore) — The supply chain is made up of the many steps that brings a product to a customer. But right now the chain seems to be broken, or at least crimped in places. Store shelves are partly empty, deliveries are delayed, and prices are rising. Bottlenecks at many steps along the way are keeping products out of the hands of consumers. When the supply chain will return to normal is anyone’s guess. And the economy is paying the price.

The supply chain for any given company can start with suppliers of raw materials and other inputs. Once a product is made, it travels along the network from the factory to a warehouse to a store and ultimately to the final customer. Various agents, brokers, vendors, transportation companies, and distribution centers can play key roles along the way in ensuring a product gets made and reaches its final destination.

Thanks to a variety of problems, exacerbated by the global COVID pandemic, the supply chain isn’t acting as it should. Cargo ships carrying approximately half a million shipping containers filled with goods from various countries in Asia await offloading at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Once they are offloaded, a shortage of truck drivers prevents those containers from moving out of ports in a timely manner. Railroad terminals, where trucks deliver goods for the next leg of the journey, are backed up with containers awaiting further transport, which, in turn, also block inbound trains. Should those goods somehow make it to a warehouse, worker shortages are limiting their timely processing.

And those are just some of the issues.

A global microchip shortage, exacerbated by Texas winter storms that affected domestic production, is slowing the production of cars and various electronic devices. China, where many consumer goods destined for America are produced, is suffering through an ongoing energy crisis that’s curtailing manufacturing. And manufacturers in many other countries with lower rates of vaccination have endured shutdowns and worker shortages brought on by the spread of the Delta variant.

All this has happened just as a shift in spending, brought on by COVID, has drastically increased demand for a wide variety of products. The situation is fluid and will likely remain that way through the holiday season and into the new year.

CBS Local has the latest supply chain news from its markets across the country. We are updating this list frequently, so check back often for the latest news on the situation.

An in-depth look at the supply chain crisis:

Supply Chain Issues: ‘There Really Are Problems Everywhere,’ Even For Small Companies

A look at how supply chain issues are impacting consumers around the country:

Port Of Oakland Cargo Volume Down 20% In October As Ships Divert South

Supply Chain Issues Force Businesses, Shoppers To Adjust For Cyber Monday

Holiday Shoppers Start Early to Avoid Supply Chain Woes

Crowds Return To Stores This Black Friday, But Supply Chain Issues Pose Challenges

Supply Chain Issues Causing Kitchen And Laundry Appliance Shortages

Holiday Shoppers Hitting Stores Early Due To Supply Chain Concerns

The Squeeze: Experts Suggest Shopping For Locally Made Gifts To Avoid Supply Chain Issues This Holiday Season

Delivery Delays For Furniture: How Supply Chain Issues Are Causing Backups

Local Shops Getting Creative To Combat Supply Chain Shortages Squeeze

The Squeeze: Supply Chain Problems Have Charitable Organizations Feeling Pain Ahead Of Holiday Season

Supply Chain Woes Cause Auto Parts Shortage, Wreaking Havoc On Auto Industry

The Squeeze: Supply Chain Issues Causing Headaches, Frustration For Mom-And-Pop Retailers In New York

Supply Chain Creates Garage Door Waiting Game; City Inspectors Allow Lenience

Global Supply Chain Crisis Impacts Souvenir, Food Vendors At Levi’s Stadium

No More Wire Hangers? Supply Chain Crisis Now Impacting Businesses You Least Expect

Local Small Business Owners Meet To Discuss Supply Chain Concerns

Supply Chain Delays Disrupt California Tree Nut Exports

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UT Southwestern To Pay $4.5M To Resolve Alleged Controlled Substance Act Violations

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center has agreed to pay $4.5 million to resolve allegations that its violations of the Controlled Substances Act allowed hospital staff to divert fentanyl and other dangerous drugs from the hospital.

The civil settlement – which also includes an extensive corrective action plan – is the culmination of a three-year-long joint DEA and U.S. Attorney’s Office investigation of UTSW’s handling of controlled substances, which began in December 2018 after two UTSW nurses overdosed on fentanyl and died at UTSW’s Clements University Hospital. This marks the largest settlement involving allegations of drug diversion at a hospital in the state of Texas and the second largest in the nation.

“For years prior to our investigation, U.T. Southwestern exhibited an almost shocking disregard for its obligations under the Controlled Substance Act, enabling some employees to steal and abuse prescription narcotics – including powerful synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. We felt that the serial compliance failures we uncovered warranted a multi-million-dollar penalty and a stringent corrective action plan,” said U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham. . “In this settlement agreement, we’re doing everything in our power to mitigate the threat of opioid diversion by outlining protocols above and beyond what’s required by law.”

“The University of Texas Southwestern Hospital has an obligation to keep the highest standard of care for their patients. They also have an obligation of internal safeguards to keep controlled substances from being diverted,” said DEA Dallas Special Agent in Charge, Eduardo A. Chávez. “Opioids, like fentanyl, do not discriminate in its addictive properties when diverted or taken outside the direction and supervision of medical professionals. In this time of record overdose deaths, health care systems must be held to compliance with the Controlled Substances Act. This is not only their legal responsibility, but also a matter of public trust and public safety. DEA Dallas pledges that we will tirelessly work with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure these rules and regulations are followed to combat the opioid epidemic.”

In settlement documents, the government contends that UTSW violated multiple provisions of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) over a five-year period, and that as a result UTSW employees were able to divert controlled substances – including fentanyl — from UTSW’s Clements University Hospital and Zale Lipshy Pavilion.

As a DEA registrant, UTSW had certain recordkeeping and reporting obligations which included monitoring all controlled substance activity within its facilities and promptly notifying the DEA whenever a theft or significant loss occurred. The DEA determined that UTSW’s failure to meet certain of these recordkeeping and reporting obligations, along with the medical center’s failure to maintain effective controls to consistently detect and monitor suspected diversion, contributed to the health system’s overall failure to “guard against the theft and diversion of controlled substances.”

During its investigation, the DEA identified incidents in which registered nurses diverted controlled substances from UTSW over significant periods of time. Tragically, two such diversions resulted in fatal overdoses.

On Dec. 15, 2016, a UTSW nurse overdosed on fentanyl diverted from UTSW’s Clements University Hospital and was found deceased in a hospital bathroom. Roughly 16 months later, on April 16, 2018, another UTSW nurse overdosed on diverted opioids, including fentanyl, and was found deceased in a different Clements Hospital bathroom.

According to the settlement documents, although UTSW did report certain instances of theft and loss to the DEA, it did not do so in a timely manner. It also failed to properly document the dispensing and “wasting” of controlled substances – an essential safeguard against diversion – and made errors in forms documenting the ordering, receipt, and distribution of controlled substances – all violations of the CSA.

As part of the settlement, the medical center agreed to take significant steps to mitigate its diversion issues. These steps, outlined in a three-year memorandum of agreement between UTSW and the DEA, include:

• Hiring an external auditor to conduct unannounced audits of controlled substances dispensed via pyxis machines (with a particular focus on auditing fentanyl), with any resulting deficiencies or discrepancies resolved in thirty days, signed off on by the Pharmacist-in-Charge, and provided to DEA;
• Instituting a training program designed to help employees identify symptoms of addiction and signs of diversion, and to understand the threat diversion poses to patient care and professional reputation;
• Creating an employee compliance hotline that permits anonymous reporting of suspected drug diversion or drug impairment;
• Installing security cameras at pyxis machines and providing footage to the DEA upon request;

• Establishing a database of employees who have been discharged or resigned because of drug diversion, and disclosing relevant information to requesting health facilities conducting pre-employment inquiries; and
• Permitting DEA personnel to enter UTSW facilities at any time, without prior notice and without a warrant, to verify compliance.

Much of the conduct outlined in the settlement agreement is merely alleged; the agreement does not constitute an admission of liability by UTSW. However, UTSW does publicly acknowledge and admit that theft and significant loss of controlled substances occurred at Clements University Hospital and Zale Lipshy Pavilion; that UTSW failed to notify the DEA of these thefts and losses in a timely manner; and that some of UTSW’s policies and procedures were not consistent with the requirements of the CSA.

UTSW cooperated with the DEA’s investigation. After the agency launched its probe into the medical center’s compliance program in December 2018, UTSW began working with the DEA to address deficiencies and strengthen its controls for handling controlled substances. A number of changes were instituted well before the settlement agreement was signed.

A main objective of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. §§ 801–904, is controlling illegitimate traffic in controlled substances. To prevent the diversion of controlled substances, the CSA regulates persons, companies and other entities that manufacture, distribute, and dispense controlled substances. With more than 100,000 Americans dying last year from drug overdose, the Justice Department and the DEA are committed to using every resource available to prevent overdose deaths and hold accountable those responsible for the opioid crisis. The government’s rigorous investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s ongoing dedication to stem the prescription opioid crisis by ensuring that opioids are not diverted and abused.

This matter was investigated by the DEA’s Dallas Diversion Squad and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Robbins and Kenneth Coffin, with oversight from the Northern District of Texas First Assistant Scott Hogan.

A copy of the Settlement Agreement and Memorandum of Agreement are available online here. Medical workers with concerns about prescription drug abuse or diversion can report it to the DEA here.

 

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Missing Dallas Man Jeffrey Nathan Lovell May Be ‘Confused’ And Need Help

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – The Dallas Police Department is asking for the public’s help finding Jeffrey Nathan Lovell.

Jeffrey Nathan Lovell (credit: Dallas Police Department)

He was last seen at 7 p.m. on November 28, 2021, at 8500 Block of Van Pelt Drive. Lovell may be confused and in need of assistance, according to police.

Lovell is described as a 49-year-old White male. He is 6’0″, weighs 170 pounds, with brown hair, grey beard, and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a blue plaid shirt, blue jeans, and a black cap.

Please call the Dallas Police Department at 911 or (214) 671-4268 if you have seen him.

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Why The New Omicron COVID Variant Is More Concerning

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – As more countries report cases of the new omicron coronavirus variant, there are concerns about whether it’s more contagious and virulent than the delta variant.

“This thing has mutated like crazy,” said Dr. Robert Murphy, an infectious disease specialist with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. “There’s at least 30 mutations in the spike protein. This is like way more than any other variant.”

Those mutations could make it easier for the virus to infect the cells.

“If you look at the data, it does look like it’s most likely transmitting easier than Delta,” Dr. Murphy said. “We don’t know if it’s really any worse as far as disease progression or death or hospitalization. So, it may be very similar to what we saw with Delta. But all this really has to play out, and it’s gonna take us probably at least one to two weeks.”

Another concern, how effective current vaccines will be against the new variant, which is now being studied.

“It’s most likely that the current vaccines do offer some kind of protection,” Dr. Murphy said.

When asked how many more of these variants could there be in our future, Dr. Murphy said, “It’s going to be endless until everybody is vaccinated.”

Experts agree a worldwide vaccination effort is critical to stop this pandemic because the longer it goes on, the more likely the virus can mutate.

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Tips For Controlling Screen Time For Kids And Teenagers Addicted To Video Games

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — More than 75% of kids and teenagers play video games, after a recent survey found most played even more during the pandemic. But a local addiction group is warning gamers not to get carried away.

At Anoka High School, it’s game time. Some juniors and seniors are part of the “Anime and Gaming Club.”

“You can meet people who like to play video games,” said senior Alex Purinton. “We have 60 to 70 students here at Anoka High School.”

“People play ‘League of Legends.’ One room is for ‘Dungeons and Dragons.’ There are people who like ‘Minecraft’ and also card games like ‘Magic The Gathering’ or ‘Smash Bros,'” said junior Ben Miller.

The club promoted as a healthy way to game while understanding that screen breaks are needed. That became an issue for many of these gamers during distance learning.

“I played a lot. I’ll go out and do a mile run, takes me 10 minutes, or I’ll maybe go out on a walk for an hour or just go a jog,” said junior Dylan Bartley.

“I will say I have to take a break. I’m gonna go sleep, I gonna go cook because I like to cook a lot,” said Miller.

It’s what Zach Hansen wants to hear. He’s a professor at Hazelden’s Graduate School and specializes in addictions.

“The criteria for gaming-use disorder are really modeled after substance-use disorder and gambling disorder,” said Hansen.

Hansen worries that not enough studies have been done to show the true impact of excessive gaming, especially when we were locked down and students were constantly at computers.

“Are they withdrawing from relationships? Are they withdrawing from school activities,” said Hanzen. “Are they not doing other activities that they used to find enjoyable?”

Those are questions “Jack” has asked himself.

“I must have quit that game seven to nine times,” said Jack.

He’s part of On-line Gamers Anonymous, a therapy group for people who realize they need help. Years ago he got hooked on a video game called ‘Everquest.’ He was stressed out and needed short-term gratification. Because the game didn’t have a true ending and you could keep playing, Jack became obsessed.

“I would usually play 20 hours on the weekends sometimes and then another two to four hours a night. You were talking 40 hours a week. Basically another job,” said Jack.

It affected his sleep, his job and his relationship with his wife — which eventually ended. To beat the addiction he joined the group founded by Liz Whoolly, who has her own tragic experience.

“The game just sucked him in so bad that he left everything in his real life and became dependent on the game,” said Woolley.

She said she watched her son Shawn became obsessed with a role-playing game. She said he even quit taking medication for ADD and epilepsy.

“The professionals, they also said, ‘Well, he just likes to game, let him game, it’s the only thing he likes to do.’ I said, ‘Well that’s crazy. That’s like telling an alcoholic if you just like to drink just keep drinking because it’s the only thing you like to do,” said Woolley.

Woolley said Shawn’s withdrawal eventually played a role in him taking his own life. She used her grief to write books about the warning signs and to establish On-line Gamers Anonymous. The group meets twice weekly and provides resources for families.

“Once you cross that line you’ve got a problem. We use many AA materials and we just substitute gaming. It works. It’s the same thing. It’s like, oh wow. I can’t believe it. It doesn’t matter what the drug is,” said Woolley.

Like Woolley, Hansen is pleased the World Health Organization now recognizes gaming disorders as a stand-alone diagnosis.

But in the United States it’s considered an area of further research which likely plays a role in a lack of resources for therapy and treatment.

“It’s not an official diagnosis yet, and what the implications for that are is access for treatment and funding for treatment aren’t as much as say substance-use disorder, or their mental health disorder,” said Hansen.

In the meantime, Hansen recommends parents set screen time rules with kids and to make sure they have other activities they enjoy.

A digital detox could mean temporarily stepping away or limiting game time to a few hours a week.

“It’s not just, ‘I’m doing this to be mean, I’m doing this to punish you.’ It’s if you play too many video games this can happen, you are not going to develop skills in sports for example, or if you play an instrument,” said Woolley.

If they recognize a problem he said parents should talk with their kids away from the game, go for a drive or to a restaurant. High school clubs that promote healthy gaming habits can also help.

“Help them recognize that this is a serious problem, and your life can be so much better,” said Hansen.

Hansen said about 4% of teenagers who play video games develop an unhealthy addiction.

ARLINGTON (CBSDFW.COM) —    

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TCU Introduces Sonny Dykes As New Head Football Coach

FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM/AP) – Following weeks of speculation, Sonny Dykes introduced as TCU’s new coach after four seasons at SMU. Watch above.

Dykes will replace Gary Patterson, who departed Oct. 31 in his 21st season with four games remaining.

The Big 12 school finally acknowledged the move publicly after welcoming Dykes to the Fort Worth campus Monday night to meet with his new team.

Sonny Dykes does the horned frog salute after being introduced and addressing the crowd at TCU. (Credit: AP Photo/Richard W. Rodriguez)

There were numerous reports over the course of the past month citing unnamed sources that Dykes would be the Horned Frogs’ new coach.

The decision sparked numerous debates on social media, with TCU and SMU fans expressing both excitement and frustration at the decision.

SMU announced that Dykes’ replacement would be Miami offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee, who served as offensive coordinator for the Mustangs from 2018-19 as a member of Dykes’ staff before going to the Hurricanes.

(© Copyright 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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Register To Ring For The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign

Register to Ring will help you find the perfect time and place to ring bells.

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The Salvation Army Angel Tree

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Resale Shop Benefitting SafeHaven Domestic Violence Survivors Closed Following ‘Significant’ Burglary

FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM) – Berry Good Buys, the resale shop benefitting the women and children of the largest emergency domestic violence shelter in Tarrant County has closed after it was burglarized.

Proceeds from sales at the store support SafeHaven of Tarrant County. SafeHaven clients can shop at the store at no cost – whether they need furniture for their new apartment, clothing for an interview, or simple shoes for their children after fleeing home in the middle of the night.

Calling the burglary, “significant,” the non-profit also said the burglars damaged property.

While the investigation into the crime continues, all in-kind donations can be brought to 1424 Hemphill St. in Fort Worth, Mon. – Fri.: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 

The organization runs two emergency shelters in Tarrant County and offers a wide variety of other programs and services for people in abusive relationships.

SafeHaven said in October that intimate partner homicides spiked to the highest number on record for Tarrant County. The findings were shared in the organization’s second annual Fatality Review made up of data from SafeHaven, the Tarrant County District Attorney, JPS Hospital Systems, local police departments and other collaborating organizations.

According to the report, 17 victims died at the hands of their intimate partner in 2020, which is more than double the amount the year before.

“The numbers were very high,” said Kathryn Jacobs, SafeHaven president and CEO.

Domestic violence cases and services were heavily impacted by the pandemic, according to Jacobs. She said outside factors like the pandemic, unemployment or substance abuse don’t cause domestic violence, but they can make it worse.

“They can be triggers in a relationship that already is dealing with issues of power and control,” Jacobs said. “For much of 2020, we were all pretty isolated. We weren’t going to church, we weren’t going to the grocery store, we weren’t going to work inside an office. And so, victims were stuck at home with their abusers. It took them a lot of hard work to figure out how to stay safe.”

Leaving an abuser doesn’t always mean safety either.

Of the 17 intimate partner homicides in 2020, 12 cases involved couples who were dating. Five were married. According to the report, the majority of relationships had actually ended before the murder.

The most dangerous time in a relationship marred by violence is typically when it ends and in the three months that follow.

“It’s really important to understand victims do what is safest for them at the time,” Jacobs said. “Leaving is a process. It’s not a decision that happens at three in the morning, spontaneously out of nowhere.”

That fatality review found the youngest victim of intimate partner homicide was 21 years old and the oldest was 67.

Nine were shot to death.

“What that is saying is that if you own a gun and you’re a domestic violence abuser, the chance of that relationship ending in homicide increase,” said Jacobs.

Advocates say one of the most heartbreaking things to come out of this report is that none of the victims utilized a domestic violence hotline, shelter or other social support service before their death.

“I think when people don’t come to us, it’s for one of two reasons,” Jacobs said. “One, they didn’t know we existed. Or two, they weren’t in a safe enough place where they could safely exit a relationship.”

The number for SafeHaven’s domestic violence hotline is 877-701-7233.

READ FATALITY REVIEW REPORT HERE

View this document on Scribd

 

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Little Elm High School Students, Parents Asked To Attend Listening Session Following Protests About Sexual Assault Allegation

DENTON COUNTY (CBSDFW.COM) – Little Elm High School students and parents were asked to attend a listening session following weeks of uproar and student protests about how the district handled a sexual assault allegation.

Recently students planned multiple protests about how the district handled it. A video circulated on the Friday before Thanksgiving break showing officers using a Taser, pepper spray, and arresting four students during a planned protest.

Monday students picked up where they left off, but this time it was more peaceful. There was a walkout of about 50 students. The district superintendent, a school board member and town mayor, all met with the group.

The listening session begins at 6 p.m. in the school’s auditorium.

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Tanker Truck Full Of Fuel Hangs Over Bridge After Collision At Loop 12, Shady Grove

IRVING, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – Dallas police officers are controlling traffic at Loop 12 and Shady Grove where a tanker truck that’s full of fuel is hanging over the bridge.

The tanker collided with an SUV this morning, Nov. 30.

One person was taken to the hospital. Police haven’t commented on the severity of his or her injuries.

The freeway is currently shut down at Walton Walker and Shady Grove as officers assess how to offload the tanker.

 

 

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In Shadow Of Texas Gas Drilling Sites, Health Fears Escalate

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Next to a North Texas day care center is a site where Total Energies is pumping for natural gas.

The French energy giant wants to drill three new wells on the property next to the center, which serves mainly Black and Latino children. For the families of the children and for others nearby, it’s a prospect fraught with fear and anxiety.

Living too close to drilling sites has been linked to a range of health risks. And while some states are requiring energy companies to drill farther from daycares, schools and homes, Texas has taken the opposite approach: It has made it exceedingly difficult for localities to fight back.

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Public Health Experts Say Dallas Cowboys COVID Outbreak Shows Pandemic Far From Over

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – The Dallas Cowboys’ COVID outbreak is one of the biggest in the NFL this season. Public health experts say it shows that the pandemic is far from over.

“Just makes you want to be cautious, because if they’re taking all the protocols and they’re having outbreaks, then we just have to step up our game even more,” said fan Tyler Simmons.

Some Cowboys fans are concerned not only about how the head coach’s case of COVID will affect the team’s season, but also what it means about the continued spread of the virus.

“It is a reminder that we still need to take precautions to protect those around us,” said Dr. Erin Carlson, director of graduate public health programs at UT Arlington.

Case rates in Texas right now are much lower than they were at this time last year, but public health experts say there’s still a chance people got the virus during Thanksgiving celebrations or travel.

“We do expect that there will be a surge of coronavirus throughout the United States following Thanksgiving, especially as we enter the holiday season,” said Dr. Shane Fernando, a clinical epidemiologist at the University of North Texas Health Science Center.

It’s too early to predict just how big of an uptick we could see.

“The vaccines have given us a little bit of hope again,” Dr. Fernando said.

They’re also one factor people should consider as they assess the risk of taking part in any of December’s holiday traditions.

“We need to have those conversations with family members and friends and others with whom we’ll be gathering about whether or not they’ve been vaccinated,” Dr. Carlson said. “Whether or not they are careful if they’re traveling en route to join you, if they’ll be wearing their mask.”

Another thing to consider is the new Omicron variant.

Public health experts say it’s not something to panic about yet, but should be motivation to get the vaccine if you haven’t already or the booster if you’re eligible.

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AP Source: Rangers Snag Shortstop Corey Seager For $325 Million, 10-Year Deal

ARLINGTON, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – A person familiar with the deal tells The Associated Press the Texas Rangers have reached an agreement on a $325 million, 10-year deal with free agent shortstop Corey Seager.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the biggest deal in Rangers history was pending a physical and wasn’t finalized.

The 27-year-old Seager was the World Series and NL Championship Series MVP in 2020 for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

He hit .306 with 16 homers and 57 RBIs in 95 games this year.

He broke a finger on his right hand after getting hit by a pitch May 15 and missed two-and-a-half months.

(© Copyright 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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AAA Texas Offers Tips For Safely Transporting That Perfect Christmas Tree

TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM) – If you’re planning on picking out that perfect Christmas tree, AAA Texas is reminding drivers to make sure it’s secure before driving off.

It is both unsafe and illegal for items to fall from a vehicle while on the road, including Christmas trees.

An improperly secured tree may cost drivers as much as $1,500 in repairs due to worn paint, torn rubber seals, warped window frames, and scratched windows.

AAA Texas warns that the vehicle owner may also be held liable for any damages a fallen tree causes to others.

“Improperly secured Christmas trees are a danger to everyone on the road and cause significant damage to a vehicle,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “While most commercial tree lots will have employees to assist you with safely securing your tree before you bring it home, as the vehicle owner you are responsible if the tree causes damage, so you should be familiar with the proper way to secure it.”

To prevent damaging your vehicle and ensure safety on the road, AAA Texas recommends:

• Plan Ahead – bring along the most appropriate vehicle to transport the tree. One with a roof rack is ideal, but a pickup truck, SUV, van or minivan can work just as well. Also bring along an old blanket and strong rope or ratchet straps, as well as gloves.
• Wrapping and Covering – once you’ve found the perfect tree, have the lot wrap it in netting before loading it. Loose branches can also be secured with rope or twine to help protect the tree from damage. Also, prior to loading the tree, cover the roof with an old blanket to prevent scratches to the paint and protect the car from any damage.
• Trunk First – place the tree on the roof rack or in the bed of the truck with the trunk facing the front of the car. If the vehicle does not have a roof rack and is large enough, place the tree inside instead.
• Securing – tie down the tree at its bottom, center and top using strong rope or nylon ratchet straps. Avoid using the nylon offered by many tree lots. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the tree trunk above a branch to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement.
• Testing – once tied down, give the tree several strong tugs from various angles to make sure it is secured in place and will not come loose.
• Nice and Easy – drive slowly and take back roads if possible. Higher speeds can create significant airflow that can damage your tree or challenge even the best tie-down methods

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