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August 31, 2007

To our readers: 7to7 newsblog off for Labor Day

The 7to7news blog will be giving itself a Labor Day break, as it follows its practice of publishing local breaking news on business days and not holidays.

As usual, projo.com will continue to be updated with news from The Journal as it becomes available, automated wire feeds and reports from several others of our bloggers, especially our sports writers, who feed the main SportsBlog -- especially from this weekend's Deutsche Bank golf tournament, SoxBlog and PatsBlog.

We're sure projo.com's Sheila Lennon will continue to post her eclectic reports at any time of the day or night on her Subterranean Homepage News blog.

And when big local news breaks over the holiday weekend, we'll do our best to get it to you ASAP -- officially on duty or not.

Haven't had a chance to keep up with all the breaking news this week? You can always go back, via the 7to7 newsblog's daily calendar links or its archived headlines, to get a wrapup of past events.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 7:02 PM | Comment

For some R&R this weekend, head to Charlestown

Maybe it's time for a little R & R tonight, as in rhythm and roots.

The 10th annual Rhythm & Roots Festival is at Ninigret Park, 4813 Old Post Rd. (Route 1), Charlestown, through Sunday.

Here's the schedule:

• Tonight, from 5 to midnight: Red Stick Ramblers, Natalie MacMaster, The Pine Leaf Boys, Creole Cowboys, The Racines, The Buddhahood, Paul Cebar and the Milwaukeeans and Ray Bonneville.

• Tomorrow: Red Stick Ramblers, Susan Tedeschi, Donna the Buffalo, The Pine Leaf Boys, Creole Cowboys, Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys, Los Straitjackets with Big Sandy, Paul Cebar and the Milwaukeeans and Corey “Li’l Pop” Ledet, noon-midnight.

• Sunday: Red Stick Ramblers, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, The Pine Leaf Boys, Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams, Johnny Nicholas and the Texas Allstars featuring Joel Guzman & Greg Piccolo, Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys, Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, James McMurtry and Corey “Li’l Pop” Ledet, noon-midnight.

Call (888) 855-6940 or go to www.rhythmandroots.com. Fees range from $30 to $160 (for a full three-day ticket). Children 12 and under get in free. There's also a senior discount at gate. Parking is free.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:00 PM | Comment

Alert: Tiverton teachers back strike call -- if needed

TIVERTON -- The teachers union membership this evening authorized its negotiating committee to call a strike if it deemed it necessary next Tuesday.

Amy Mullen, the NEA-Tiverton teachers union president, said the members authorized the committee at a 4:30 p.m. meeting to "to take whatever action it deems necessary up to and including a strike on Tuesday."

She said the negotiating committee is making itself available to meet with one or more members of the School Committee over the weekend "in hopes that significant progress can be made" before Tuesday, when students would come back after the Labor Day weekend.

Mullen also said the committee will not continue to meet with the School Committee's current configuration of negotiators.

Teachers did report for the opening of school this past week as scheduled. Their contract is due to expire at midnight tonight. (An earlier report incorrectly said it had expired yesterday.)

Yesterday, the teachers’ union filed an unfair labor practice charge against the School Committee, asserting the committee has bargained in bad faith by failing to appoint a negotiator authorized to reach a tentative agreement.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Gina Macris

And tensions have flared this week. Crowley last night released a copy of a memo Schools Supt. William J. Rearick sent to teachers Tuesday apologizing for telling them to "sit down and shut up" at a district orientation meeting in the high school auditorium earlier that day.

“My intention was to get the meeting started in a timely manner, in retrospect I should have chosen my words more carefully,” Rearick wrote.

“I want to take this opportunity to apologize to anyone I may have offended,” the superintendent added.

Rearick last night said it happened after he'd tried to call the orientation meeting to order without success.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:33 PM | Comment

Child missing briefly on Lincoln bike path found

LINCOLN -- Police have found a child who had been reported missing late this afternoon on the bike path here.

The report had come in about 4 p.m. of a girl who was on her bike.

No other details are available.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:17 PM | Comment

City won't close El Tiburon after fatal shooting

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
Club owner Oscar Vaverde, left, and his lawyer, Robert Goldberg, meet with the Providence Board of Licenses today.

PROVIDENCE -- The city will not shut down El Tiburon, the Valley Street restaurant and bar where a leader in the Latin Kings gang was shot and killed last weekend.

But the bar must hire a detail of two police officers to oversee the premises on every night it is open for the immediate future, according to a decision rendered by the city’s Board of Licenses today.

The bar has been closed all week, following the shooting early Saturday of Vidal “Lucky” Rodriguez, 33, a leader in the Almighty Latin Kings Nation street gang. Rodriguez, who had stepped out of the bar to have a cigarette, was shot while standing on the sidewalk outside El Tiburon just before 1 a.m.

The police had requested that the city’s Board of Licenses hold a hearing to consider revoking the bar’s license.

Police have not made any arrests, and have not determined whether the killing was gang related.

Today, Oscar Valverde, and his son, Steven, met with a reporter at a table inside the bar at 370 Valley St. to dispute the Police Department’s characterization of his bar as a hangout for members of the Latin Kings.

The Valverdes said that Rodriguez had been in the bar for only “10 to 15 minutes,” before he was killed. They said that he used to drop in about once a month, and they did not know that he was member of a notorious street gang.

-- Journal staff writer Daniel Barbarisi

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:42 PM | Comment

Tiverton teachers meeting to debate work return

TIVERTON -- In another closely watched contract matter, the teachers union here will begin debating at 4:30 p.m. whether "to report to work" on Tuesday, according to a union spokesman.

The union membership is slated to meet at Green Valley Country Club in Portsmouth, spokeman Patrick Crowley, deputy executive director of National Education Assocation-Rhode Island, said in a statement.

Teachers did report to school this week as scheduled. Their contract is due to expire at midnight tonight. An earlier item reported incorrectly that it had expired yesterday.

Yesterday, the teachers’ union -- NEA-Tiverton -- filed an unfair labor practice charge against the School Committee, asserting the committee has bargained in bad faith by failing to appoint a negotiator authorized to reach a tentative agreement.

And tensions have flared this week. Crowley last night released a copy of a memo Schools Supt. William J. Rearick sent to teachers Tuesday apologizing for tellimg them to "sit down and shut up" at a district orientation meeting in the high school auditorium earlier that day.

“My intention was to get the meeting started in a timely manner, in retrospect I should have chosen my words more carefully,” Rearick wrote.

“I want to take this opportunity to apologize to anyone I may have offended,” the superintendent added.

Rearick last night said it happened after he'd tried to call the orientation meeting to order without success.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Gina Macris and Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:55 PM | Comment

Montalbano asks judge to intervene in ethics case

PROVIDENCE -- Senate President Joseph Montalbano has asked a judge to intervene in his ethics case.

Montalbano, a North Providence Democrat, is accused of improperly supporting a referendum for a casino in West Warwick at the same time he was doing legal work for the town.

His lawyer, Max Wistow, says the state Ethics Commission shouldn't be allowed to prosecute the Senate president while there are unresolved questions about whether the case is constitutional.

Wistow says the constitution bars lawmakers from being prosecuted based on their votes. The Ethics Commission rejects that argument.

Superior Court Judge Allen Rubine has agreed to hear from both sides on Tuesday about whether the block the prosecution.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:34 PM | Comment

E. Greenwich teacher talks: Long weekend haul ahead?

In East Greenwich, where schools are scheduled to open on Tuesday, mediated teacher contract talks will start again today at 5 p.m.

They are expected to continue through the three-day Labor Day weekend to replace a contract that expires today.

Union representatives say if a new agreement is not reached by Monday, the union is expected to vote Monday night on whether to strike or continue working without a contract.

School Superintendent Charles E. Meyer says he doesn’t really have a plan in place to notify parents in the event of a last-minute decision to strike, other than possible postings on the district's Web site or via listservs.

He said the School Department has been focusing its energies on trying to resolve the contract issue, which he hopes will be by Tuesday.

In Exeter-West Greenwich, a mediation session will be held tomorrow. But lead negotiators are meeting now to outline proposals and discuss terms. If necessary, mediation will continue on Wednesday. School has already begun in Exeter-West Greenwich.

-- Journal staff writer Lisa Vernon-Sparks

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 4:20 PM | Comment

Judge orders Burrillville to resume teacher talks

PROVIDENCE -- A Superior Court judge today told both sides in the Burrillville teachers' contract dispute to return to collective bargaining talks over the long holiday weekend.

Judge Netti C. Vogel said she would direct teachers back to work, if she deems it necessary, at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Her hope is that both sides would reach a resolution over the weekend so that no such last-minute decision would be necessary.

Vogel made the judgment after the union's lawyer suggested the parties were closer to a contract agreement than either side had previously indicated.

School Department lawyer Benjamin M. Scungio said that if Vogel orders teachers to resume work, school would start on Tuesday after a one-hour delay.

The school wants to compel teachers -- who voted to strike -- to come to work. School in the district had been due to start this past Wednesday. But instead, classes were cancelled for that day, yesterday and today. The teachers' contract expires today.

Between 80 and 100 teachers turned out to see the proceedings today at Superior Court in Providence, which was based on a request and complaint by the School Department. Extra: Read a copy of the school department's complaint.

Teacher contract talks are also on-going in East Greenwich, Exeter-West Greenwich, Providence and Tiverton.

-- projo.com staff writers Michael P. McKinney and Brandi Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Mark Reynolds

Exeter-West Greenwich has returned to school, while mediation continues in that district. Mediated sessions are also expected to continue through the holiday weekend for East Greenwich, where school is due to start Tuesday.

The Tiverton teachers’ union filed an unfair labor practice charge against the School Committee yesterday, maintaining that the committee has bargained in bad faith by failing to send appoint a negotiator authorized to reach a tentative agreement.

The teachers’ contract expired yesterday, and the union membership will meet after school today to consider its next steps. The first day of classes in Tiverton was Wednesday.

Providence teachers are also negotiating a new contract, but union leaders there have said they expect schools to open next Wednesday, as scheduled.

Jamestown has a tentative agreement in place that will be considered by its teachers union and School Committee on Thursday, Sept. 6.

New Shoreham ratified a new three-year contract last week. North Kingstown's contract was also due to expire today, but teachers and the School Committee there ratified a new agreement earlier this summer.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:32 PM | Comment

Man gets 15 years after cocaine, gun found under bed

PROVIDENCE -- A Pawtucket man was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after a gun and cocaine were found under his bed, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Providence.

Robert Viruet, 38, was arrested in August 2005 after police found a safe under his bed containing six bags of crack cocaine, one bag of powder cocaine and a loaded .25-caliber pistol.

Viruet initially said a friend had paid him $200 to store the safe, but in 2006, he pleaded guilty to two charges of possession with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

He was sentenced today in U.S. District Court, Providence, to 121 months for the drug offenses and 60 for the gun. Federal sentencing laws mandate a consecutive five-year sentence for having a gun in connection with drug trafficking.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:33 PM | Comment

Update: Victims in fatal Seekonk rollover ID'd

SEEKONK, Mass. -- A 21-year-old woman died and four people were hurt when a SUV car rolled over in the middle eastbound lane of Route 195, just east of Exit 1 in Seekonk early this morning.

Massachusetts state police say Angela R. Sbardella, of Fall River, was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, which occurred at about 1:40 a.m.

The driver of the 1996 Jeep Cherokee, 21-year-old Kyle R. Whalen, also of Fall River, and a juvenile passenger were taken to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries.

Two other passengers, 18-year-old Amy L. Garant, of Fall River and 26-year-old Brendan Reagan of San Diego, Calif., were taken to Rhode Island Hospital with minor injuries.

Garant was treated and released. Whalen and Reagan are still being evaluated early this afternoon, according to a hospital spokeswoman. No information is available on the unidentified juvenile passenger.

The State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section is investigating the accident with the State Police Crime Scene Services Section and the Bristol District Attorney’s Office.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:25 PM | Comment

Update: Pursuit of robbery suspect ends in 5-car crash

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
A police officer takes notes at the scene of the crash on Broadway in Providence.

PROVIDENCE -- An alleged bank robber fleeing in a stolen car crashed into cars on Broadway late this morning, sending four smashed vehicles spinning and debris flying across the road and into a nearby ballfield.

The suspect, who was driving, and his passenger both ran off in different directions, but they were caught moments later by officers rushing to the scene, said Maj. Stephen Campbell.

One of the men was brought to the hospital, as was a person in one of the struck cars, but neither had life-threatening injuries, Campbell said.

The suspect is accused of trying to rob a young man at knifepoint at an ATM outside a nearby Citizens Bank, Campbell said. The victim got away and rushed inside the bank for help.

Officer Joseph Hanley happened to be working a detail inside the bank. Hanley ran outside and saw the suspect toss a knife into the passenger side of a gray Mazda parked near the bank. Another man was in the passenger seat as the suspect jumped into the driver’s side and tried to take off, Campbell said.

Hanley tried to stop him, hitting the driver with his baton and spraying him with pepper spray, but the men sped off, Campbell said. As the officer radioed in that the suspects were heading into the city on Broadway, the car smashed into other cars at Barton Street.

Officers specializing in traffic reconstruction were on the scene trying to piece together how the accident occurred. One SUV with Connecticut license plates was up on the sidewalk next to the walk traffic light. The stolen car was smashed, its engine in pieces, from where it landed into the back of a red Nissan. A Mercury sedan with war veteran plates had been broadsided.

-- Journal staff writer Amanda Milkovits

Debris and glass from the cars was scattered across the roadway from one end to the other. Fresh blood was spattered on the sidewalk on Barton Street next to the ball field and across from the Paul Cuffee School, where children in school uniforms were lining up in the playground. Campbell said the blood was from one of the suspects, who was injured in the crash.

Officers seized a black folding knife with a 4-inch blade believed to be the one used to threaten the man at the bank ATM, Campbell said. Detectives were going to review the video from the camera at the ATM, Campbell said.

The names of the suspects or the robbery victim, or the person injured in the crash, were not available.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:23 PM | Comment

Sunny skies, lots of travel predicted for Labor Day

Sunny skies, mild weather and a long weekend.

If you’re thinking this Labor Day weekend is looking like a time to get out of town, you’re not alone.

AAA is estimating more than 36.5 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday.

About 4 million will travel by air; about 1.6 million will take trains, buses or another mode of transportation.

And about 84 percent of Labor Day weekend travelers – nearly 29 million – will be driving.

They may be pleased to find that, according to AAA, regular gas -- at about $2.67 in the Providence metro area -- is about 25 cents cheaper than it was going into the Labor Day weekend last year.

Compare prices throughout the past year at AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report.

If you plan on staying in town, remember RIPTA buses and trolleys will be operating on a holiday schedule.

Flex service will be suspended, except for the Kingston/URI line, which will be on a holiday schedule. The RIde program will continue to run uninterrupted.

When the weekend is over, and the buses resume a regular schedule, it will be the new fall schedule, which is different for about a half dozen bus routes and adds service on Route 57 to the new Park n’ Ride lot in North Providence.

For more information, visit the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:39 PM | Comment

After Newport scam: More bomb threats in Ohio

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The bomb threats and extortion attempts against stores around the country this week are continuing today.

The FBI says four more threats forced evacuations at stores in northeastern Ohio early today.

The threats were phoned in to a Wal-Mart and three Giant Eagle grocery stores. They were all temporarily evacuated, but each reopened within three hours after being searched by police.

The FBI says it thinks all of the threats are coming from the same individual or group.

Authorities are investigating bomb threats at least 15 stores in more than a dozen states, including one at a Wal-Mart in Newport.

Authorities say the threats appear to be coming from overseas.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:25 PM | Comment

DEM warns of potential for fish die-off

The state Department of Environmental Management warned today that a large school of menhaden, chased into the Blackstone River by predatory fish, may be at risk.

An estimated one million to two million menhaden -- many of them juveniles -- were spotted late yesterday and early this morning in the river near Slater Dam.

Menhaden contribute to Narragansett Bay's health and to the economy: They are bait fish for the lobster fishery and are used to attract striped bass, among other things.

DEM biologists in the fish and wildlfie division are monitoring the situation.

In July, the DEM carried out emergency rules to control harvesting of menhaden to preserve the menhaden stocks.

Adult menhaden are typically in Narragansett Bay from May through September, but juveniles remain throughout the year.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

DEM said its fish monitors noted large numbers of menhaden being chased into the less salty waters of the Providence and Blackstone rivers by bluefish, which can tolerate fresh water.

DEM says that if someone sees a fish die-off, the DEM's law enforcement division should be contacted at 222-3070.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:10 PM | Comment

Teachers turn out for hearing on Burrillville strike

PROVIDENCE -- Superior Court Judge Netti Vogel addressed the court later than expected today at a hearing requested by the Burrillville School Department.

The school wants to compel teachers -- who voted to strike -- to come to work. School in the district had been due to start this past Wednesday. The teachers' contract expires today.

Extra: Read a copy of the school department's complaint.

Vogel announced that she had asked attorneys on both sides to meet in private to work on “preliminary matters.”

She wanted them to come up with a “joint statement of undisputed facts” and exhibits.

It was unclear exactly when the formal hearing in court would begin. Between 80 and 100 teachers turned out to observe the proceedings at Superior Court in Providence.

“I plan on continuing with the matter from day to day until that hearing is complete,” Vogel said.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal writer Mark Reynolds

Teacher contracts are also expiring today in East Greenwich, Exeter-West Greenwich, Providence and Tiverton.

Exeter-West Greenwich has returned to school, while mediation continues in that district. Mediated sessions are also expected to continue through the holiday weekend for East Greenwich, where school is due to start Tuesday.

The Tiverton teachers’ union filed an unfair labor practice charge against the School Committee yesterday, maintaining that the committee has bargained in bad faith by failing to send appoint a negotiator authorized to reach a tentative agreement.

The teachers’ contract expired yesterday, and the union membership will meet after school today to consider its next steps. The first day of classes in Tiverton was Wednesday.

Providence teachers are also negotiating a new contract, but union leaders there have said they expect schools to open next Wednesday, as scheduled.

Jamestown has a tentative agreement in place that will be considered by its teachers union and School Committee on Thursday, Sept. 6.

New Shoreham ratified a new three-year contract last week. North Kingstown's contract was also due to expire today, but teachers and the School Committee there ratified a new agreement earlier this summer.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:31 AM | Comment

Coventry firefighter's funeral procession draws crowd

A funeral procession for Americo DiPetrillo, 53, of Coventry, has brought firefighters out to pay their respects.

The Hopkins Hill firefighter died Sunday after being pulled out of the water at a beach in Narragansett.

Local firefighters waved flags and fire engines lined an overpass north of Exit 6A on Route 95 this morning as a state police-escorted funeral procession for the firefighter headed from Coventry to Cranston.

DiPetrillo was a firefighter for more than 30 years, serving as the assistant training officer for six years.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:26 AM | Comment

Fire sends Providence firefighter to hospital

PROVIDENCE -- A fire at a vacant house this morning sends one firefighter to the hospital with heat exhaustion.

Heavy fire on the first and second floor of the three-story house broke out at about 4:40 a.m. at 92 Veazie Street, and was under control by about 5:30 according to James Taylor, chief of communications for the Providence Fire Department.

Officials are still investigating the cause of the fire.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:37 AM | Comment

Water pipe break closes street in Cranston

Bretton Woods Drive in Cranston is closed after a water main break at Woodstock Lane.

According to Providence Water, a main sprung a leak earlier this morning, leading them to turn off water along the residential street.

Police say the disruption was caused by a depression in the road. The leak is not major, however the water will probably be off on Bretton Woods for the rest of the day.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:18 AM | Comment

"Close to identifying suspect" in bomb threats

PROVIDENCE – Federal authorities say the caller or callers who have threatened more than a dozen stores in the past week asked that money to be wired to Portugal.

Although the FBI said the investigation is focused overseas, a spokesman has declined to elaborate or say whether or not an arrest was imminent yesterday.

But FBI spokesman Rich Kolko said the Bureau is close to identifying one or more suspects who have called more than 15 large stores or banks, including a Wal-Mart in Newport, in the past week and threatened to blow up workers with a bomb unless they wired money.

“We certainly have some good leads,” Kolko said. “We’re close to identifying somebody who may be responsible.”

One man has been charged Hutchinson, Kan.in connection with an incident Wednesday that police determined to be a copycat crime.

-- The Associated Press

The FBI has not said how much money was wired to the caller from the Hutchinson store on Tuesday, but police in Newport said workers at a Wal-Mart were so frightened by a bomb threat on Tuesday that they wired $10,000 to the caller.

Large grocery and discount stores as well as banks in roughly a dozen states have received calls from an unidentified man who is able to provide such specific details that employees believe he is inside or somehow watching them.

On Thursday evening, the FBI provided an updated list of stores and banks believed to be traceable to the same suspect or group of suspects. The bureau is also investigating whether other reported threats are connected.

The FBI list includes: a credit union in Albuquerque, N.M.; a Safeway store in Sandy, Ore.,; a grocery store in Buchanan, Mich.; Wal-Marts in Newport, R.I., and Rio Grande City, Texas; bank branches at Wal-Marts in Salem, Va., and Fairlawn, Va.; a Macey's grocery store in Orem, Utah; a Dillons grocery store in Hutchinson, Kan., a bank branch in Milford, Conn.; a Vons in Vista, Calif., near San Diego; a bank in Savannah, Mo.; a bank in Ithaca, N.Y.; and banks in Tampa and Wesley Chapel, Fla.

Authorities in Buchanan, Mich., had earlier said workers at a Harding's Market sent $3,000 to an account in Portugal. But on Thursday, Police Chief William Marx said flustered store employees made a mistake and the money was sent to Paraguay rather than Portugal, as the caller had demanded.

"They got their p's messed up," Marx said.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:52 AM | Comment

MegaMillions jackpot is up to $330 million

Didn't win the PowerBall?

You're not alone. But you may have another shot.

The MegaMillions Jackpot is up to $330 million dollars, that's $16 million more than the last week's Powerball Jackpot, the 4th largest in that game's history.

The odds of winning the MegaMillions Jackpot are about one in 176 million, while the Powerball odds were about one in 146 million -- it's a longer shot, but a bigger payoff.

And there's also the drive. You can buy a MegaMillions ticket in Massachusetts, but not in Rhode Island.

Is it worth it?

See what people are saying they'd do with the money.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:23 AM | Comment

Hearing this morning on Burrillville teachers strike

PROVIDENCE -- A hearing is scheduled for this morning in Superior Court on a teachers strike that's shut down Burrillville schools this week.

Classes have been canceled until at least today, when the current contract expires.

An attorney for the school district has asked Judge Netti Vogel to order the teachers' union back to work.

Extra: Read a copy of the school department's complaint.

The teachers' union voted to strike after both sides failed to reach an agreement during a negotiating session Tuesday night.

Both sides say sticking points include health care costs and class sizes.

Patrick Crowley, a spokesman for the union, says the teachers will obey court orders.

-- The Associated Press and Journal reports

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:22 AM | Comment

Another toy recall

Toys 'R' Us is recalling 27,000 crayon and paint sets made in China because of lead contamination.

This is the second recall Chinese-made products in less than a month.

The first recall prompted Pawtucket-based Hasbro to “redouble its safety reviews,” according to Wayne S. Charness, senior vice president of corporate communications for the nation’s No. 2 toymaker.

Most of Hasbro's toys are manufactured through contracts with factories in China and Asia. The crayons are not made by Hasbro.

See a report here.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:04 AM | Comment

Woman dies in early morning crash on 195, Seekonk

A woman is dead after a car accident early this morning.

Massachusetts state police say the cause of the accident is still under investigation, but at about 2:15 a.m. a car traveling east on Route 195 in Seekonk, just past Exit 1, rolled over.

A passenger was ejected, and died as a result of her injuries.

The other four passengers were taken to Rhode Island Hospital.

Massachusetts state police and Bristol County detectives are investigating.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:02 AM | Comment

Gloomy today, improving for the weekend

The Labor Day weekend will get off to a gloomy start with the National Weather Service predicting a 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and cloudy skies all day and an overnight low of about 60.

But Saturday and Sunday are looking good with clear and sunny with a high of 79 and an overnight low of 60.

And Labor Day should be even warmer, with a high in the mid 80s.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features a photograph and story reporting on the $78 million cost of painting the Pell Bridge.

Download a copy of today's front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 30, 2007

Tonight: Comedy improv., rock and jazz

There's comedy in Newport tonight and plenty of tunes in the clubs around the state.

At the Firehouse Theater in Newport, starting at 9:09 p.m., the Bit Players comedy improv troupe goes to work. Call 849-FIRE (3473).

Also in Newport, Blockhead plays rock at One Pelham East, 270 Thames St. Call 847-9460. The show begins at 9 pm.

Copperhead plays rock at Newport Blues Cafe, 286 Thames St.. Call 841-5510. 9 pm.

Mark Cutler and Friends play rock and rhythm and blues at Nick-A-Nee's, 75 South St., Providence. Call 861-7290. 9 pm.

Al Deston plays some jazz at Capriccio, 2 Pine St., Providence. Call 421-1320. 7-11 pm.

Also in Providence, East Side Horns and Mac Odom and Chill play rhythm and blues and Motown at The Hi-Hat, 3 Davol Square, Providence. Call 453-6500. Show goes from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:54 PM | Comment

Warwick man indicted on child molestation charges

WARWICK -- A local man was indicted today by the Providence Grand Jury on child molestation charges stemming from a Pawtucket case last year.

Christopher Smith, 26, of 393 Palmer Ave., Warwick, was indicted on three counts of first-degree child molestation and two counts of second-degree child molestation.

The charges stem from what police say was Smith’s actions between August and December 2006 when he allegedly molested a preteen girl while her mother was not at home.

Smith was living in the home with the child’s mother in Pawtucket at the time.

Police said they were alerted to the alleged abuse via a hot line and the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Smith was arrested in March and has been held without bail at the ACI.

In April, the case was referred to the grand jury, which handed up the indictment.
Smith will be arraigned in Providence County Superior Court on Sept. 19.

-- Journal staff writer Talia Buford

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:43 PM | Comment

FBI chasing overseas leads in Wal-Mart bomb threat

PROVIDENCE -- The Federal Bureau of Investigation is working on evidence connecting the bomb threat against the Newport Wal-Mart and threats in 12 other states to suspects overseas, a spokesman said.

Wal-Mart this week wired $10,000 to an overseas account after a caller threatened to detonate a bomb.

Spokesman Jason Pack, a special agent in Washington, said today that similar threats have been phoned into businesses in 15 communities in 12 states.

In most of these cases, a caller has threatened to detonate a bomb unless money was wired to him. On Tuesday, the Newport Wal-Mart complied with the demand for $10,000.

Asked about reports that the calls originated in Portugal, the FBI spokesman would not confirm that.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:44 PM | Comment

State campground reservations are coming, for a fee

PROVIDENCE -- The state Department of Department of Environmental Management plans to announce tomorrow that it has hired a company to operate a reservations system for public campgrounds for the first time in state history.

Starting in November, campers will be able to reserve campsites as long as a year before their visit. In the past, it was first come, first served.

“We are excited about this,” Steven T. Wright, acting chief of the DEM’s Division of Parks and Recreation, said. “It’s a long time coming.”

Burlingame State Campground, in Charlestown, Fishermen’s campground, in Narragansett, East Beach, in Charlestown, and the George Washington Campground, in Glocester — will be included in the program, to be operated by ReserveAmerica Holdings Inc.

The state is not increasing the cost of renting a campground, $14 a night for state residents. The out-of-state fee is $20 a night.

But Reserve America, a New York-based subsidiary of Ticketmaster, will charge campers $9 to maker a reservation online or $10 by telephone.

So for a Rhode Island resident the cost of a camp site with an online reservation will increase by 64 percent.

-- Journal staff writer Benjamin N. Gedan

Posted by Peter Phipps at 5:14 PM | Comment

Photo: Tiger on the prowl at Deutsche Bank Pro-Am

Journal photo / Bob Breidenbach
Fans of Tiger Woods are eager to take their own souvenir snapshots today as the golfer who may be the most recognized athlete in the world prowls the edge of the 9th green today during the Pro-Am round of the Deutsche Bank Championship at the TPC Boston in Norton, Mass. Tournament play starts tomorrow and runs through Sunday. Woods is defending champ. Click over to projo.com's sportsblog for comments on the event.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 4:04 PM | Comment

Photo: This dog looks after the vet

Journal photo / Kathy Borchers
Christopher Bergin, center, an inmate at the Adult Correctional Institutions in Cranston, gets reacquainted with Lila, the dog he trained for the Canines for Combat Veterans Program. Lila is a service dog for Army Specialist Sue Downes, a 27-year-old mother of two from Tennessee who lost both legs below the knees in Afghanistan. A.T. Wall II, director of the Rhode Island Department of Correction, is on the right.

Posted by Jack Perry at 3:08 PM | Comment

Update: Rubbish fire calls firefighters to Broad St.

PROVIDENCE -- Firefighters are responding to a rubbish fire outside of a building at 1195 Broad St.

According to James Taylor, chief of communications for the Providence Fire Department, the fire originated in rubbish piled up against the garage door of the building.

No other information is available at this time.

The area is just east of where Route 95 crosses over Broad Street, and borders the northeast end of Roger Williams Park. See a map.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:12 PM | Comment

Another push for Carcieri's plan for wind farms

PROVIDENCE – Governor Carcieri is pushing forward with his plan to build one or more wind farms off the coast of Rhode Island, even though it’s unclear how the state will go about financing the ambitious project.

Today, the governor’s top energy adviser convened the first meeting of “stakeholders” -- people who represent municipalities, agencies and organizations that want a say in how the project will proceed.

About 35 attended the meeting, held at Save The Bay headquarters.

Their top priority is to tackle what may be the most vexing decision -- where the wind turbines should be located.

Andrew Dzykewicz, chief energy adviser to the governor, said he is aiming for the group to come to a consensus at its third meeting in October.

Extra: Look back at the the state's first conference on wind power last April, and read the governor's wind study on locations for wind farms.

-- Journal staff writer Timothy C. Barmann

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 2:08 PM | Comment

Providence man sentenced on gun charge

Providence – A 22-year-old Providence man was sentenced to more than six years in federal prison today for being a previously convicted felon with a gun, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Providence.

Prosecutors say Juan Cuthbert was one of four men in a car that Providence police officers pulled over for a traffic violation on New Years’ Eve. When officers told the men to get out of the car, Cuthbert got out, pushed an officer aside, and tried to escape, according to prosecutors.

The police said they saw him toss a handgun, which they later retrieved.

Cuthbert, who has prior convictions involving drug trafficking and gun posession, was arrested and prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a federal initiative against gun crimes. He was sentenced to 77 months in prison.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:48 PM | Comment

Mentor program for youth will receive federal money

A mentoring program for at-risk children in Warwick and Woonsocket will get $187,537 from the U.S. Department of Education, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse's office announced today.

The money will go to the Rhode Island Mentoring Partnership for students in grades 4 through 8. The program is meant to recruit, train and help adults to be positive role models for young people "with emotional difficulties, low self-esteem, poor peer relationships, or low academic performance" statewide, according to a news release.

Volunteer mentors serve at least one hour per week for a year.

“When I was attorney general, I saw first-hand the enormous change that supportive, involved adults could make in students’ lives through the after-school and mentoring programs we built at Oliver Hazard Perry Middle School in Providence,” Whitehouse said in the statement. “This federal funding, combined with the tireless work of volunteer mentors, will make a real difference in these young people’s lives.”

Whitehouse said he wrote to the federal education department to support the partnership’s grant application and co-signed a letter with other senators urging $100 million in federal money for mentoring programs in fiscal 2008.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:24 PM | Comment

After big oil spill, new vessel rules for Buzzards Bay

Four years after an oil spill in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, Coast Guard rules announced today will create a bay "vessel movement reporting system" and require that single-hulled tanker barges be accompanied by escort tugs as well as the primary tug.

The new regulations take effect on Nov. 28, according to a news release.

"In creating this resolution, the Coast Guard aimed to strike a balance not only between the stakeholders and interest groups involved in Buzzards Bay, but also, our ultimate duties to protect the public, the environment, and the U.S. economic interests," First Coast Guard District Commander Rear Adm. Tim Sullivan said in a statement.

The goal is to cut down on the likelihood of an incident that might include a collision, grounding of a vessel and a resulting spill of oil or other hazardous materials.

In April 2003, a tanker barge from New York-based Bouchard Transportation Co. became damaged, and thousands of gallons of No. 6 fuel oil spilled into the bay, some of it coating birds initially and raising problems for the shellfish industry.

Among the other new rules are:

* A pilot, separate from the vessel's master and crew and operating under a properly endorsed federal pilot's license, must be aboard the tug towing single-hulled tank barges transiting Buzzards Bay.

* A vessel movement reporting system -- VMRS -- will be monitored by Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers. Vessels that are subject to the "Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge VHF Radiotelephone regulations," including tug/barge combinations, will be required to participate in the movement reporting system.

* Recommended navigation routes will remain recommended, not mandatory, "to allow maximum flexibility for masters to meet unusual or challenging situations," according to the release.

The Coast Guard said the matter was published today in the Federal Register at www.archives.gov/federal-register.

For full text of the regulations, go here.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:07 PM | Comment

Hearing on R.I. waterfowl hunting rules is tonight

There's a public hearing tonight on proposed Rhode Island waterfowl hunting rules and proposed regulations for falconry.

The state Department of Environmental Management will hold the hearing at 7 p.m. at the North Kingstown Community Center, Beach Street, off Route 1A south of Wickford.

Waterfowl rules set up the hunting seasons, bag limits and methods of taking for 2007-2008.

There here are some changes in the federal waterfowl regulations with which the state must comply, according to the DEM.

One change increases the daily bag limit for canvasbacks from one to two birds. And the number of days open for hunting Atlantic Brant has been raised to 30 to 50 days -- Dec. 2 through Jan. 20.

Check out the rules proposed at www.dem.ri.govThey cal also be seen at the Oliver Stedman Government Center, 4808 Tower Hill Rd., Wakefield, or by calling (401) 789-3094 on weekdays.

Comments will be accepted at DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife through today at 4 p.m. They will also be accepted at the hearing.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

The DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife will show a video on the breeding status of waterfowl in the Canadian Provinces.

No "substantial changes" to falconry regulations are proposed -- there are five falconers in Rhode Island.

There will be waterfowl stamps, hats, and early goose permits (for September season) at the hearing. Exact change will be required.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:05 PM | Comment

Another New England store threatened / Video

Another store in New England has been contacted by a male caller threatening to detonate a bomb unless employees wire money.

In at least 11 states, including at a Newport Wal-Mart Tuesday, a caller has threatened to blow up a bomb unless employees wired money.

The Associated Press reports the most recent incident was yesterday, at a Hannaford supermarket, in Millinocket, Maine, population 5,200.

See video taken at the scene here.

No one has been arrested, and no bombs have been found in any of the incidents.

Read a Journal story today following up on the threat at the Newport Wal-Mart and what investigators think of scam.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:25 AM | Comment

RIC launches alert system using cell phones, e-mail

PROVIDENCE -- After a review spurred by the Virginia Tech massacre, Rhode Island College is launching a system that sends alerts of a crisis or disaster by cell phone and e-mail to students, faculty and staff.

A news release on the college's Web site today says it's something new "that the college's administrators hope they’ll never have to use."

The system, offered by Apogee Telecommunications, is free to customers using Apogee technology and allows for up to 24 messages a year. The college has used Apogee technology for about three years.

If there's an emergency, a campus administrator can send a text message through any registered messaging device, such as a cell phone or personal digital assistant, to all users with a cell phone number in the college’s information systems. It could also be sent to e-mail.

The college says there is a one-time, $50 set-up fee for each device that is allowed to send messages through the system. The college plans to program about a dozen devices assigned to certain campus administrators to trigger messages.

“People are very mobile these days, it’s the best way to communicate quickly. Cell phones and text messaging methods are the most favorable,” Richard Prull, the college's assistant vice president for information services, said in the statement.

An advantage of text messaging is contacting people before they arrive on campus if needed, according to the college. The college has many commuter students.

The move follows a 14-member committee's review of its emergency response after the Virginia Tech shootings that killed 32 people, including one Rhode Islander. A report out today found that lives could have been saved if the university had sent out warnings sooner.

RIC classes begin again for the fall on Wednesday, Sept. 5.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Over the summer, the college’s began collecting cell phone numbers to use in the system.

The college says it told incoming students about he service and asked for their cell phone numbers at freshman orientation. Cell phone information is recorded through the person’s on-line college administrative systems account.

The system tested successfully several times over the summer, the college says.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:19 AM | Comment

Ex-Mass. selectman changes plea in sex-sting case

PROVIDENCE – A former Massachusetts selectman accused of trying to have sex with a minor has changed his pleato guilty today in US District Court.

William J. Christensen, 60, of Southborough, Mass., pleaded not guilty to two charges in March after Prosecutors said he arranged a sexual encounter with someone he met on the internet that he thought was a 15-year-old girl.

Today, Chief Judge Mary M. Lisi accepted a guilty plea in exchange for a sentence recommendation from the US District Attorney.

The first charge, traveling across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct, carries a maximum 30 year prison sentence. The second charge, using the internet to entice a minor, has a five-year minimum prison sentence and a 30-year maximum.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Nov. 30.

Prosecutors allege that Christensen set up a meeting with the supposed teenager-- actually an undercover police officer -- at an East Providence apartment complex last May.

Christensen was arrested when he arrived at the complex.

Six days later, he was arrested in a separate incident in Massachusetts under similar circumstances. In that case, he was given a 26 1/2-year suspended prison sentence with five years probation.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:15 AM | Comment

Duke lacrosse prosecutor pleads innocent

DURHAM, N.C. -- Disgraced former prosecutor Mike Nifong pleaded not guilty today to criminal contempt charges stemming from his failure to turn over complete DNA testing results during the now-discredited Duke lacrosse rape case.

If found in contempt, Nifong could face up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

As Durham County district attorney, Nifong led the investigation into a woman's allegations that she was raped at a 2006 lacrosse team party where she was hired as a stripper. He won indictments against three lacrosse players, but eventually recused himself from the case, and state prosecutors dropped all remaining charges, saying the players were innocent victims of a "tragic rush to accuse."

Defense attorneys for the three falsely accused young men asked a judge to punish Nifong for initially telling the court he had turned over all DNA test results when he knew, and failed to disclose, that genetic material from multiple men was found on the accuser - but none from any lacrosse player.

Reade Seligmann, one of the falsely accused players, has transferred to Brown University and will play lacrosse for the Bears.

The team's former coach, Mike Pressler, became the coach at Bryant University in Smithfield after he was forced to resign from Duke in April of 2006.

-- The Associated Press

Nifong's attorney, Jim Glover, told Superior Court Judge W. Osmond Smith III during the hearing today that it wasn't about whether the statements were true or false but "were they willfully and intentionally false and were they also part of an effort ... to hide potentially exculpatory evidence."

Nifong was disbarred in June for more than two dozen violations of the state's rules of professional conduct during his prosecution of the lacrosse case.

During a hearing last month, he apologized and acknowledged there was "no credible evidence" that the three formerly charged players committed any of the crimes he accused them of. He said then: "It is my hope that all of us can learn from the mistakes in this case, that all of us can begin to move forward."

Posted by Jack Perry at 10:58 AM | Comment

Va. Tech report: Faster warning could have saved lives

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia Tech officials could have saved lives if they had quickly warned the campus that two students had been shot to death and their killer was on the loose, a panel that investigated the attacks said.

Instead, it took administrators more than two hours to get out an e-mail warning students and staff to be cautious.

The shooter had time to leave the dormitory where the first two victims were killed, mail a letter, and then enter a classroom building, chain the doors shut and kill 31 more people, including himself.

Even before the killings, the university had failed to properly care for the mentally troubled student gunman, Seung-Hui Cho, the panel found.

Daniel Patrick O’Neil, a 2002 graduate of Lincoln High School in Rhode Island, was among those slain. The 22-year-old O’Neil had been pursuing a graduate degree in environmental engineering.

Read the full story from the Associated Press ...

Extra: Read the complete report.

Video: Watch a scheduled 11 a.m. report on the findings.

Blog: Look back at 7to7 blog reports on the shootings and our local connections.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 10:48 AM | Comment

R.I. inmates train dogs to help injured vets

CRANSTON – Puppies, combat veterans and inmates.

They are coming together at the Rhode Island Department of Correction today, for a reunion of sorts.

The inmates are participants in the Prison Pup Partnership Program, an arm of the National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEAD).

They’ve been training puppies as assistant dogs for the Canines for Combat Veterans Program.

Today at 11 a.m., 27-year-old Army Specialist Sue Downes of Tennessee – who lost both of her legs in Afghanistan – and 21-year-old Army Cpl. Christopher Strickland of Connecticut – who lost both legs, half of an arm and vision in one eye – will meet their dogs’ trainers.

“What a happy occasion it is when a disabled partner and adult service dog return to meet the inmate puppy raiser,” Sheila O’Brien, executive director of NEADS said in a press release.

“This reunion completes the cycle of training, companionship and love.”

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:26 AM | Comment

20 firefighters battled trailer-park fire in Portsmouth

PORTSMOUTH — Portsmouth and Bristol firefighters spent much of the overnight hours battling a fire that left extensive damage to a mobile home in the Melville Trailer Park.

It took six hours for firefighters to contain the blaze at 15 Scotty Drive, which sparked at about 2:30 a.m. The residents – listed as Lorraine and Theodore Amado – were alerted to the fire by a passerby, Portsmouth Deputy Fire Chief Robert Church said this morning.

The fire started in a front porch and quickly spread to the eaves and the attic, collapsing and destroying the wooden-truss roof, Church said.

Portsmouth sent two engines and a ladder truck to the fire and requested an engine from the Bristol Fire Department. About 20 firefighters were on-scene until about 9:30 a.m. Firefighters were worried that the blaze might spread to nearby units in the densely-occupied mobile home park, but only the one home was burned, Church said.

Officials believe the fire was accidental, though they are still investigating the cause, Church said. No one was injured.

— Meaghan Wims, Journal staff writer

Posted by Peter Phipps at 10:09 AM | Comment

Roger Williams University to welcome Iraqi scholar

WARWICK -- An Iraqi who formerly worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Army is set to return to Rhode Island today.

Qussay Al-Attabi will teach Arabic at Roger Williams University while studying English literature at Brown University.

Officials at Roger Williams say Al-Attabi visited the Bristol-based university in 2005 as part of a delegation of Iraqi students. They say they offered to help him when the former Army interpreter decided that Iraq had become too dangerous.

Roger Williams President Roy Nirschel plans to greet Al-Attabi when he lands at T.F. Green Airport this evening.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Jack Perry at 9:56 AM | Comment

Update: Johnston officers on duty day after "sick-out"

JOHNSTON – “Everyone is present and accounted for,” Johnston Police Chief Richard S. Tamburini said today, one day after 10 police officers called in sick across two shifts.

A Superior Court judge later issued a restraining order banning police from taking part in a "sick-out."

At a news conference yesterday, town officials said the officers were protesting an investigation into what Mayor Joseph Polisena called “sweetheart pension deals” for individual officers negotiated by former the former mayor’s administration.

Superior Court Judge Netti Vogel said officers need to present a doctor’s note to call in sick.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 8:29 AM | Comment

More schools re-opening around R.I. / Photo

Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Jorge Torres, a math teacher at Central Falls High School, encourages students to get to know each others' names and to be friendly with everyone. The theme was also sounded by new school Principal Mario Andrade at orientation this morning, on the first day of school, one of two aimed at helping students adjust socially as they return to class. Andrade has developed several goals to help the low-performing school as part of a partnership with the University of Rhode Island.

More students around Rhode Island are headed to school today.

It's the first day for kids in Central Falls, Foster, Glocester, Pawtucket and Warwick.

Freshmen began school yesterday at William M. Davies Jr. Career and Technical High School in Lincoln; the rest of the students start today.

The Ponaganset regional school district, shared by Foster and Glocester, was still in mediation yesterday, but doors were open at the district's high school and middle school this morning.

Get tips on heading back to school, statewide education coverage, and more information about your district and schools, on our education page.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 8:15 AM | Comment

Textron wins battle to retain internal tax documents

PROVIDENCE -- Textron, Inc., the world's biggest maker of business jets, has won a legal battle to retain internal tax documents after a U.S. federal judge ruled that the Internal Revenue Service isn't entitled to examine them.

The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. District Court Judge Ernest C. Torres rejected the government's request to enforce an IRS summons and described the papers as protected by "work product" privilege, because they were prepared in anticipation of litigation with the IRS.

The IRS asked Providence-based Textron for all its tax work papers for several years as part of a scrutiny of leasing-related transactions that might have yielded large tax benefits, the Journal added.

-- Bloomberg

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 8:01 AM | Comment

Two firefighters killed in Boston

BOSTON -- Two Boston firefighters were killed and two others critically injured after crews became disoriented in dense smoke and trapped in a restaurant fire in the city's West Roxbury neighborhood, officials said early today.

Killed were Paul Cahill, of Scituate, and Warren Payne, of Canton, who served on Engine 30, Ladder 25, the first unit to respond to the Wednesday evening fire, said Fire Department spokesman Scott Salman.

Eight other firefighters had less serious injuries, and an EMS paramedic was being evaluated for chest pains, he said.

See video shot on the scene here.

-- The Associated Press

"Tonight is a very sad night for the city of Boston," Mayor Thomas Menino said. "Two of our bravest have lost their lives in a fire in West Roxbury. Our prayers and offers of help are extended to the families of those two firefighters and the other firefighters who were injured in the line of duty. This is a dangerous job, and these firefighters answered the call."

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:02 AM | Comment

Sunny and warmer

Look out for a bit of fog this morning which should clear up by about 9 a.m. Then it's another sunny day, warmer than yesterday with a high in the mid-to-high 80s and humidity rising as the day goes on.

The National Weather Service predicts a slight chance of rain and areas of fog after midnight with an overnight low of 64.

Enjoy the sun today; tomorrow we may see rain and thunderstorms with temperatures in the high 70s.

For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features photographs and a story about the recent rash of shootings in Providence.

Download a copy of the front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 29, 2007

Update: A wrapup of teacher contract talks

While teachers took a strike vote and school was canceled in Burrillville, the Tiverton School Committee announced today rejection of its teachers union's healthcare proposal and the sides in East Greenwich continued a marathon negotiation.

The scorecard on teachers' contracts around Rhode Island currently reads: one cancellation, two agreements and five contracts pending.

New Shoreham has reached a contract agreement, and Jamestown has reached a tentative agreement -- which its teachers union and School Committee are expected to separately consider on Sept. 6.

Providence, where school starts Sept. 5, is in negotiations.

The Burrillville School Committee has asked a judge to order teachers to come to work after the teachers' union voted to strike last night, forcing the cancellation of the district's return to classes today. Teachers did not report to their classrooms this morning for what had been the first day of school.

The matter is scheduled for a Superior Court, Providence, hearing this Friday morning at 10:30, Superior Court Associate Justice Netti C. Vogel decided this afternoon after a conference with lawyers from both sides.

In Tiverton, a school district news release this afternoon said the union has proposed a high deductible plan coupled with a health-care savings account. The account allows people to reserve pre-tax dollars for use against medical expenses.

-- projo.com staff writers Michael P. McKinney and Brandie Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writers Jennifer D. Jordan, Mark Reynolds, Lisa Vernon-Sparks, Gina Macris and Randal Edgar

Denise deMedeiros, the School Committee president, said in the statement that the committee's analysis shows "the suggested savings aren't there and that, in fact, this will increase the cost to the district and therefore to our taxpayers."

But Patrick Crowley, deputy executive director of NEA Rhode Island, said the School Committee has not done the math correctly. He said that the School Committee's own analysis shows there would be a net savings of nearly $24,000.

The committee has asked Schools Supt. William Rearick to ask the union to respond directly to the committee's health-care proposal, which the union has had since May. The committee said it proposed in May that teachers increase premiums on a sliding scale depending on their salaries. They now pay a flat rate, the committee said.

Crowley said deMedeiros and other committee members have not sat down face to face with the union.

The NEA Tiverton teachers union has a membership meeting lsated for Friday at 3:30 p.m. at Green Valley Country Club in Portsmouth, according to Pat Crowley, deputy executive director of NEA Portmsouth.

School in Tiverton began today. The teachers' contract expires Friday.

In East Greenwich, hunkered down in separate rooms, top school administrators and members of the East Greenwich Education Association are in the midst of a mediation session, hoping to come to terms with the three-year-old contract before it expires Friday.

School opens in East Greenwich on Sept. 4.

Both groups have been mediating with their lawyers present since 10 a.m. They were not expected to break until 7:30 p.m., an official said.

The district has been in mediation status since Aug. 10.

Exeter-West Greenwich Regional School District also is in mediation status, with a contact set to expire Friday. School began today.

The sides in Ponaganset (the Foster-Glocester regional district) are in mediation today. School is scheduled to start tomorrow, according to the state Department of Education Web site.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:51 PM | Comment

Man indicted in ex-girlfriend's stabbing death

PROVIDENCE -- Hamlet Lopez, a former teacher's aide, was indicted today on one count of murder in the stabbing death of his former girlfriend.

The indictment alleges that on May 20 Lopez murdered Miledis Hilario, whom the police said was stabbed on the floor of her second-floor apartment at 42 Courtland St. in Providence. Hilario ran her day-care business there.

The police have said her body was found around 10:45 p.m. after one of her teenage daughters, who was at work, asked the police to check on her because of previous threats on her mother's life. The daughter had not been able to reach her by phone.

Arraignment is slated for Sept. 12 in Providence County Superior Court. Lopez is being held at the Adult Correctional Institutions in Cranston.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:36 PM | Comment

Man wielding gun robs Providence store of $195

PROVIDENCE -- A man wielding a handgun robbed $195 from the Academy Farm Mart convenience store, 524 Academy Ave., Mount Pleasant, this morning, the police said.

He got rid of his sunglasses and dark shirt near the store, the police said, and left so hastily that he may have dropped some of his loot. There were three or four witnesses to the getaway, and one said that a woman in a silver station wagon stopped her car and picked up some cash that the robber apparently dropped.

The holdup occurred at about 10:30 a.m. The robber came into the store with a dark shirt draped over his head and part of his face and stole the cash from the drawer of the cash register, clerk Mohama Khadam Aljamea told the police.

He fled west on Whitford Avenue and south on Webb Street, and then jumped into a small red car with Massachusetts license plates at the corner of Webb and Farm streets, according to a witness.

Patrolwoman Rhonda Kessler recovered the shirt and sunglasses in front of 61 Webb.

-- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:29 PM | Comment

Conn. man admits to string of Northeast robberies

HARTFORD, Conn. -- A Connecticut man is sentenced to more than nine years in prison after admitting in a plea agreement that he robbed 28 banks throughout the Northeast.

Michael Gola, 33, pleaded guilty to 17 counts of bank robbery.

Prosecutors say Gola admitted he robbed 15 banks in Connecticut, as well as banks in Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island.

They say Gola netted nearly $55,000 in the robberies during the spring and summer of 2004. He has been ordered to repay the money.

Gola told authorities he was addicted to prescription drugs and wanted the money to help support his disabled daughter.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:26 PM | Comment

Tiverton school panel rejects union's health plan

TIVERTON -- The School Committee announced today it rejected the teachers union's health-care proposal in closed session last night, as the sides attempt to reach a contract deal.

According to a school district news release, the union has proposed a high deductible plan coupled with a health-care savings account. The account allows people to reserve pre-tax dollars for use against medical expenses.

Denise deMedeiros, the School Committee president, said in the statement that the committee's analysis shows "the suggested savings aren't there and that, in fact, this will increase the cost to the district and therefore to our taxpayers."

But Patrick Crowley, deputy executive director of NEA Rhode Island, said the School Committee has not done the math correctly. He said that the School Committee's own analysis shows there would be a net savings of nearly $24,000.

The committee has asked Schools Supt. William Rearick to ask the union to respond directly to the committee's health-care proposal, which the union has had since May. The committee said it proposed in May that teachers increase premiums on a sliding scale depending on their salaries. They now pay a flat rate, the committee said.

Crowley said deMedeiros and other committee members have not sat down face to face with the union.

The NEA Tiverton teachers union has scheduled a membership meeting for Friday at 3:30 p.m. at Green Valley Country Club in Portsmouth, according to Pat Crowley, deputy executive director of NEA Portmsouth. What the meeting will entail is not yet clear.

The union filed last week for compulsory mediation to renogotiate a contract that expires Friday. School in Tiverton began today.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:20 PM | Comment

Amgen uses buyouts to begin cutting R.I. staff

WEST GREENWICH -- Amgen Inc. has begun reducing its Rhode Island staff as the international biotech company prepares to shut down one of the two drug-production facilities at its West Greenwich complex.

A segment of the plant’s 1,600 employees have been offered a buyout package that includes a lump-sum payment, a period of continued health insurance and career counseling, Amgen spokesman Larry Bernard said.

Staff who have worked for Amgen fewer than five years are ineligible. The individual “voluntary transition program” packages, part of a companywide program, are structured based on an employee’s salary and tenure.

Bernard declined to disclose how many, if any, of Amgen’s Rhode Island workers have agreed to retire voluntarily. Their decisions are due early next month.

“We still need Rhode Island,” Bernard said. “We’ll still be big, we just won’t be as big.”

--Journal staff writer Benjamin N. Gedan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:10 PM | Comment

Rash of phoned-in bomb threats appear related

NEWPORT -- In Vista, Calif., the manager of a grocery store was warned over the telephone that he could be shot at any time and was being watched.

In Prescott, Ariz., a caller said he knew the supermarket manager was sitting down because he could see him, making his violent threats against the store more believable.

And in Hutchinson, Kan., supermarket employees were ordered to get rid of their cell phones and to take off their clothes by a caller who said he could see inside the store. Some actually disrobed.

In each of these recent episodes, as happened at a Wal-Mart in Newport yesterday, the caller threatened to explode a bomb if money was not wired to him. But the Wal-Mart in Newport appears to be the only store that reportedly conceded to his demands by wiring him $10,000 overseas. A manager at a grocery store in Buchanan, Kan., was on the phone with the caller arranging for money to be sent when the line went dead.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is assisting local police, say these and other phoned-in extortion attempts to supermarkets, banks and department stores in nearly a dozen states around the country appear to be related. Most have occurred in just past the week.

“At this point, there are enough similarities that it appears to be one person or one group of folks,” said FBI spokesman Rich Kolko. “Some of the leads have led us to look overseas.”

Some reports have suggested the calls originated in Portugal.

The Newport case, while proving to be the most rewarding to the scammer and the most costly to any business, may actually be the most helpful to authorities. Newport say the foreign money transfer is giving them leads to follow.

“We now know where the money was transferred to. Once the money was wired, it was cashed right away,” he said. “The officials on the other end have been working with us…in an attempt to identify someone. They are closing in on the identity of the individual.”

A Wal-Mart spokeswoman declined to answer questions today.

“It is an open investigation. We’re referring any questions over to the investigation units. I can tell you we are assisting federal and local law enforcement units as they conduct their investigations. And beyond that I wouldn’t have any additional information,” said spokeswoman Sharon Weber.

-- Journal staff writer Richard Salit

Kolko, the FBI spokesman, said the agency could not officially make decisions on whether businesses should make payments: "That’s a decision they have to make.”

He did urge businesses across the nation to “keep your people safe” and to “be a good witness for us.” He suggested that victims immediately take notes of what they have observed and said many companies provide handy tip sheets for employees on how to handle bomb threats.

Kolko said the first reported bomb scam occurred on Aug. 23. But, he said, “it really started going on Sunday.”

He listed the victims as “grocery stores, banks and Wal-Marts” in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Arizona, Oregon, Virginia, Texas and Utah, in addition to Rhode Island. Media reports also indicated the scam targeted businesses in Indiana, California. Many of these businesses have banks or offer in-house money-wiring services.

Yesterday, an anonymous caller made a bomb threat against a Dillons grocery in Hutchinson, Kan., demanding money and ordering everyone in the store to disrobe, according to the Associated Press. Police said no money was paid. Today, police responded to three more bomb threats against Dillons.

Authorities said the caller yesterday appeared to have visual access to the grocery, although officials were investigating whether the caller was out of state and may have hacked into the store’s security system.

-- Journal staff writer Richard Salit

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:53 PM | Comment

Update: Judge bans 'sickout' by Johnston police

JOHNSTON -- Ten police officers called in sick across two shifts today, and a Superior Court judge later issued a restraining order banning police from taking part in a "sickout."

At a news conference this afternoon, town officials asserted the calls were in protest of an investigation by Mayor Joseph Polisena over what he called sweetheart pension deals negotiated by predecessor William Macera's administration with individual police officers.

The officials also said the officers called in sick on the second and third shifts, which run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 4 p.m. to midnight, respectively.

Meanwhile, Superior Court Judge Netti Vogel, in her order, said an officer can only call in sick if he or she has a doctor's certificate that details the nature of the illness, the diagnosis, prognosis, and a specific recommendation from the doctor that the person be excused from work.

Five officers individually called in sick for the day shift today and another called in with a family leave illness. As the change toward the 4 p.m. shift came, two patrol officers and two sergeants had called in sick.

The department had to hold over officers from the previous shift and call in people on double time.

The union president took a previously arranged compensatory time; Judge Vogel's order did not apply to that.

Gary T. Gentile, the lawyer for the union, said the union leadership had not known about the action and did not sanction it. Gentile said he did not know until the town's lawyer contacted him this afternoon.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writers Philip Marcelo, John Hill and Mark Reynolds

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:46 PM | Comment

Restaurant owner pleads no contest to shellfish charge

SOUTH KINGSTOWN -- The owner of popular Chinese restaurant in East Greenwich pleaded no contest today to charges that he harvested quahogs and oysters from Narrow River’s polluted waters.

Brian K. Cheng, who has owned China Buffet on Division Street for 14 years, pleaded no contest to one count each of taking quahogs and oysters from polluted waters in District Court, Wakefield. Under the plea agreement, the state dropped a charge of harvesting undersized blue crabs.

The state Department of Environmental Management environmental police say Cheng and a couple of friends dug about 12 gallons of quahogs and a few oysters from flats on the west side of the Narrow River, just south of Middle bridge, on Aug. 6. The Pettaquamscutt, or Narrow River, is closed to shellfishing because of pollution.

Officers seized a large Kikkoman soy sauce bucket brimming with quahogs and two other buckets that were partially filled with shellfish.

Cheng, 38, of 110 Scituate Ave., Hope, initially pleaded not guilty.

Judge John A. McLoughlin today ordered that he contribute $100 to the crime victims’ indemnity fund and that the case be placed on file for one year.

Cheng referred all questions to his lawyer Charles N. Redihan Jr., who declined to comment.

-- Journal staff writer Katie Mulvaney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:38 PM | Comment

Update: Hearing Friday on Burrillville teachers' strike

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
These Burrillville students spent the day skateboarding at Eccleston Field, after the teachers' strike action led to the cancellation of the first day of school.

The Burrillville School Committee has asked a judge to order teachers to come to work after the teachers' union voted to strike last night.

That request will be heard in Superior Court, Providence, this Friday morning at 10:30, Superior Court Associate Justice Netti C. Vogel decided this afternoon after a conference with lawyers from both sides.

Benjamin Scungio, a lawyer for the school committee, filed the complaint and a request for an injunction that would compel the teachers back to school. Read the full complaint.

The Burrillville Teachers' Union announced that it had voted in favor of a strike last night, telling the school department in time for it it to handle today like a snow day -- notifying parents and other staff members that there would be no school today.

Today was supposed to have been the district's first day of school for the year.

Classes have also been cancelled for tomorrow and Friday, the school department said.

The union's bargaining agreement expires Friday. The hearing Friday morning will be held in Courtroom 6 on the third floor of the Licht Judicial Complex.

Read more about the contract situation from our report earlier today.

-- With reports from Journal staff writer Mark Reynolds

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 4:35 PM | Comment

Governor will convene wind-power group tomorrow

Governor Carcieri tomorrow will convene the first meeting of a group that will review plans for possible wind power projects and talk about them with stakeholders from communities involved.

The group is scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. at Save the Bay headquarters, 100 Save the Bay Drive, Providence.

The governor has expressed support for wind power, asserting it is an affordable energy source that would be better for the environment.

The Office of Energy Resources was charged with finding a way to increase use of renewable energy, with wind power used to generate 15 percent of the state’s electricity, and another 5 percent from other renewable sources, according to the governor's office.

The community stakeholder group has been created to figure where wind power sructure would go. It's meeting Thursday. Community representatives have been invited from Newport, Warwick, Barrington, Bristol, Charlestown, Little Compton, Middletown, Narragansett, New Shoreham, Portsmouth, Tiverton, Warren, and Westerly.

Also invited are various state agencies, the U.S. Coast Guard, environmental groups, trade and activity associations, university representatives, tourism and chamber of commerce representatives.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:34 PM | Comment

Judge's order bans sick out by Johnston police

A Superior Court judge this afternoon issued a restraining order banning Johnston police officers from participating in a "sick out," after ten officers called in sick today across two shifts in apparent protest over stalled contract talks.

An officer can only call in sick, under the order from Judge Netti Vogel, if he or she is accompanied by a doctor's certificate that details the nature of the illness, the diagnosis, prognosis, and a specific recommendation from the doctor that the person be excused from work.

Five officers individually called in sick for the day shift today and another called in with a family leave illness. As the change toward the 4 p.m. shift came, two patrol officers and two sergeants had called in sick.

The department had to hold over officers from the previous shift and call people in on double time.

The union president took a previously arranged comp. time -- Judge Vogel's order did not apply to that.

Gary T. Gentile, the lawyer for the union, said the union leadership had not known about it and did not sanction it. Gentile said he did not know about the sick out until the town's lawyer contacted him this afternoon.

Ealier today, Mayor Joseph M. Polisena called a 4 p.m. news conference to explain the town’s response to the “sick-out” by town police officers this morning.

Polisena added that some officers had talked with him on Tuesday about various concerns involving their employment.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writers John Hill and Mark Reynolds

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:03 PM | Comment

E. Greenwich in marathon school mediation session

EAST GREENWICH -- Hunkered down in separate rooms, top school administrators and members of the East Greenwich Education Association are engaged in a marathon mediation session, hoping to come to terms with the three-year-old contract before it expires Friday.

School is scheduled to open in East Greenwich on Tuesday, Sept. 4.

Both groups have been mediating with their lawyers present since 10 a.m. They are not expected to break until 7:30 p.m., an official said.

The district has been in mediation status since Aug. 10.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 3:43 PM | Comment

Lincoln group home won't close while appeal ongoing

Families of several adults with severe retardation won a reprieve today. The families are fighting an effort to close their Lincoln group home.

The two sides in the matter emerged from a meeting in Superior Court Judge Netti C. Vogel's chambers with an agreement that the home will remain open while the families and their lawyer have a grievance heard by the state Department of Mental Health, Retardation and Hospitals.

Today's developments do not yet guarantee the Lincoln home will stay open, but the lawyer for the families cast it as a win.

The adults have lived together for 25 years in the same group home in Lincoln and don't want to be moved to another home in Smithfield.

The judge's message was there is an appeal process, go through it and see what the process produces before closing the home.

Saying it is for budget reasons, the state has again opted to close the Southwick Drive home and transfer the four, who are in their late 40s and early 50s, to the Smithfield home.

In 1995, the state Department of Mental Health, Retardation and Hospitals first closed the adults' Southwick Drive home in Lincoln, and moved the group to a home in Smithfield to save $100,000.

William L. Brennan, the father of resident Patrick Brennan, filed suit on behalf of the four adults, asserting it was a traumatic move that negatively impacted their development. Superior Court Judge Patricia A. Hurst ordered the home reopened.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer John Hill and Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:32 PM | Comment

Johnston police call in sick this morning

JOHNSTON – Mayor Joseph M. Polisena has called a press conference to explain the town’s response to a “sick-out” by town police officers this morning.

Police officers on the day shift called in sick today, Polisena said, adding that some officers had talked with him on Tuesday about various concerns involving their employment.

The press conference is scheduled for 4 p.m. at Town Hall.

-- Journal staff writer Mark Reynolds

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:59 PM | Comment

The pediatrician's prescription: A dose of reading

In the future, the doctor might prescribe something new for your child: a book.

If it becomes law, a five-year $85-million proposal written by U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, D-Rhode Island, would have doctors and nurses give parents a children's book to take home at every wellness visit. Doctors would also advise parents it's important to read aloud to your children and give age-appropriate reading tips.

The Prescribe a Book Act -- S-1895 -- which is cosponsored by Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, would set up a federal pediatric early literacy grant initiative based on the long-time Reach Out and Read program.

Reed's office said in a news release that Reach Out and Read is a national, nonprofit children’s literacy program that focuses on children at greatest risk: those 6 months to 5 years old living at or near poverty level.

Each child in Reach Out and Read begins kindergarten with a home library of up to 10 books and a parent who has heard at every well-child visit about the importance of books and reading.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:13 PM | Comment

2nd suspect in Providence murder surrenders

PROVIDENCE -- A second suspect has been arrested in the
shooting death earlier his month of a Fall River, Mass., man during what the police say was a drug deal gone bad.

Sylvester Moses, 20, of Providence, turned himself in this morning and has been charged with murdering Marc Quintal, according to the Providence police.

Moses is the second person arrested in connection with the August 15th murder. David Mello, also 20, was arrested on August 23.

The police have not said which of the suspects is believed to have pulled the trigger on Quintal.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:05 PM | Comment

Update: School bus hit in movie-like crash / Photo

Journal photo / Bill Murphy
Police and rescue crews respond to the scene of the accident.

LINCOLN – In a maneuver more like a movie stunt, a motorist traveling north on Route 99 this morning hit an embankment, went into the air, over a pickup truck and crashed into the back of a North Smithfield school bus.

The car driven by Roland Boutiette, 31, of Woonsocket, then hit a tree and rolled over several times before coming to a stop at the location just north of the Sayles Hill Road exit.

No one was seriously injured, and no children were sitting in the back of the bus, where the car hit, Deputy Chief Brian Sullivan said.

None of the 38 students were hurt, according to North Smithfield Schools Supt. Stephen Lindberg.

The bus was serving students in the Halliwell and North Smithfield elementary schools -- kindergarten through sixth grade, according to Robert Lafleur, the School Committee chairman.

The crash was in the northernmost tip of Lincoln -- an area where a bus route briefly crossed into Lincoln before returning to North Smithfield.

Parents were called and the district will be tracking the students with counselors to see how they are doing and that there are no traumatic after effects, particularly for the youngest who were aboard.

A note will be going home with all elementary school students explaining what happened.

Sullivan said the car, a Mercury, was so damaged, he couldn’t tell what model it was. “It looked like it had been through a car crusher,” he said.

The driver, Boutiette, was taken to a local hospital and has been released.

No charges have been filed, and the accident reconstruction team is investigating with state police.

-- projo.com staff writers Brandie Jefferson and Michael P. McKinney, and Journal staff writer John Hill

"In many ways we are blessed as a community -- it could have been worse," Lindberg said.

Lindberg said emergency responders checked all students thoroughly and found no bumps or bruises. Lindberg said the children ranged in age from five years old to 11 or 12. For the kindergartners aboard, it was just their second day on a school bus.

In the accident's aftermath, students could be seen boarding another bus, from North Smithfield, which then drove away with the students on board.

Lindberg credited the driver and bus monitor with calling central office to keep people apprised of the situation.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:48 PM | Comment

R.I. racing pigeon flys off track

PROVIDENCE - A local pigeon has found its way across state lines.

Gert Iannazzi tells the Eagle-Tribune of North Andover, Mass., that there were a few unusual things about a bird she’d been seeing in her Methuen yard for the past week.

For one thing, the bird was unusually comfortable around humans. She could pick it up without it trying to fly away.

For another, it was wearing a nametag.

The bird, Iannazzi learned, is racing pigeon. According to the band it wears around its ankle, it's a member the Rhode Island Racing Club.

The pigeons typically race in late summer and fall and can find their way back from more than 1,000 miles away. But rather than send this bird off on its own, Iannazzi plans to care for it while she looks for its owner.

Find more information about pigeon racing at the American Racing Pigeon Union.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:47 PM | Comment

RIPTA service changes take effect Saturday

Rescheduled trips on about six bus routes and service on Route #57 to a new park n' ride lot in North Providence are among changes to bus service for the fall, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority announced today.

RIPTA will carry out the changes beginning this Saturday. They are part of regular updates three times a year due to seasonal change and passenger use, a RIPTA news release said.

The new park n’ ride lot is at Smith and Turcone streets in North Providence.

Also, Providence school service and service to Salve Regina University resumes for the academic year.

The following routes will be affected by the service changes:

* 1 Eddy/Gaspee

* 11 Broad Street

* 18 Union Avenue

* 19 Plainfield/Westminster

* 22 Reservoir/Pontiac

* 42 Hope Street

* 54 Lincoln/Woonsocket

* 57 Smith Street

* 60 Providence/Newport

* 62 Thames/Towne Center

* 64 Newport/URI

* 66 URI/Galilee

* 67 Bellevue/Salve Regina

* 211 Kingston Connection

RIPTA advised passengers to check the new printed individual schedules effective Sept. 1. The schedules are at Kennedy Plaza and www.ripta.com. For information, call 781-9400 or go to the Web site.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:10 PM | Comment

Photo: Golfer Sergio Garcia warms up to the fans

Journal photo / Bob Breidenbach
Golfer Sergio Garcia signs autographs for fans before heading to the driving range this morning as he and other players prepare for the Deutsche Bank Championship at the Tournament Players Club in Norton, Ma. The tournament starts Friday and runs through Monday.

Posted by Jack Perry at 11:37 AM | Comment

Burrillville schools will ask court to bring teachers back

The Burrillville School Department plans to ask a judge to order teachers to come to work after the teachers' union voted to strike last night and the first day of school was canceled today.

Supt. Steven Welford said the school department is "seeking an order from a judge to have (teachers) come to work."

Benjamin Scungio, a school department lawyer, said he plans to file the paperwork today.

The Burrillville Teachers' Union announced that it had voted in favor of a strike last night, telling the school department in time for it it to handle today like a snow day; notifying parents and other staff members that there would be no school.

The union's bargaining agreement expires Friday.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:04 AM | Comment

Burrillville teachers meeting today

Union representatives are meeting with Burrillville teachers on what was supposed to be the first day of school to discuss how to move forward after teachers voted in favor of a strike.

Spokesman Patrick Crowley said the union representatives won't meet with the school department until Tuesday at 5 p.m.

"The local union has directed everyone not to report to work until further notice," he said this morning.

He added that the teachers do not consider themselves to be on strike today.

The administration called for a snow day after teachers announced they would not go to work today, canceling classes and providing an administrative framework to handle staff that is not part of the teacher's union including secretaries and bus services.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:02 AM | Comment

No school in Burrillville, teachers strike / Photo

Journal photo / Bill Murphy
Despite the sign, schools are closed this morning in Burrillville, as the teachers, with no contract in place, have gone out on strike.

BURRILLVILLE — The town’s teachers will not report to their classrooms this morning for what was expected to be the first day of the 2007-2008 school year.

The teachers’ union leaders announced a strike late last night on the heels of fruitless collective-bargaining negotiations stretching back to late last year.

Schools Supt. Steven Welford confirmed last night that the district had canceled today’s classes.

-- Journal reporter Mark Reynolds

The teachers are dissatisfied with contract proposals that, according to a union official, offer too little money and try to change their roles. They also disagreed with proposals to increase limits on class size.

“We wanted to try and get this resolved,” said the official, Patrick M. Crowley, assistant executive director of the National Education Association of Rhode Island. “We’ve invested the time and effort into trying to get a deal that would work.

“It’s not a matter of one group walking away,” he added. “It’s a matter of two sides that can’t reach a deal.”

The union’s representatives have negotiated with representatives of the School Committee on various occasions since last November.

The talks have been intense since Friday.

On Monday, the union membership, numbering 203 teachers, voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike should their union leaders deem it necessary.

The teachers then went to work as scheduled on Monday and again yesterday in anticipation of a breakthrough that would head off a strike.

However, both sides seemed to be anticipating a standoff late yesterday afternoon.

A lawyer representing the school district — which educates about 2,700 students — advised parents to log onto the district’s Web site ( www.bsd-ri.net) and tune into local television news channels to see if the first day of school would be delayed.

Any change in the opening of school would be treated as a snow day, he said.

The same lawyer, Benjamin M. Scungio, issued a news release that sought to reinforce the district’s commitment to continued negotiations.

“The school committee fully supports its teachers and the good work they do in the educational interests of the children in the town of Burrillville,” Scungio wrote. “The school committee is grateful that the teachers continue to perform their professional duties even though we have yet to achieve an agreement.”

Scungio’s release says the school system wants to reform the existing contract in a way that allows greater cost-sharing of health care and other benefits and creates “efficiencies within the contract to free-up additional money.”

Crowley was less specific when he was asked to identify sticking points in the negotiations.

“Management is asking for things they can’t afford to buy this year,” he said.

The system wants to change the role of teachers from professionals to staffers who take direction, Crowley said. He declined to elaborate.

Scungio cited the town’s limited ability “to meet union financial requests” as an issue in the contract negotiations.

For example, a new state regulation requires high school teachers to spend 330 minutes per day in instructional time, the release says.

The requirement forced the district to hire five new teachers at a cost of more than $300,000, but the state did not supply any financial aid to help the district pay for the additional cost, according to Scungio.

The highest paid teacher earns $66,000 a year in the Burrillville system, Crowley said. A teacher on the first step earns about $34,000, he said.

He rated that pay scale between the 16th and 19th highest in the state.

Language in the existing contract could add a twist to any legal wrangling in the event of a strike.

The existing contract expires Friday, but it also stipulates that teachers must work no more than 181 school days, according to Crowley.

The teachers logged their 181st day of work on the last day of school in the spring, he said. Thus, they are under no contractual obligation to report to work, he said.

He acknowledged that the school system interprets the contract differently. The schools’ lawyer, Scungio, was not available to comment on the issue yesterday afternoon.

Welford was uncertain about the prospects of school opening tomorrow.

“We don’t know,” he said. “Obviously there’s process. We will go through that process.”

He promised that the system would explain its plans in a news release today.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:02 AM | Comment

The string of nice weather continues

This weather should feel familiar. Again, we're looking at sunny and 83 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

Tonight's low is expected to be 61 degrees.

Tomorrow we may see patchy fog in the morning, followed by a hotter day with temperatures in the high 80s.

For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features photographs and a story about a bomb threat that cleared the Wal-Mart in Newport anda story about Governor Carcieri's efforts to privatize more state jobs.

Download a copy of today's front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 28, 2007

Tonight: Dave Matthews tribute, politics and jazz

You can watch a husband and wife wrestle with integrity and politics tonight on stage at the 2nd Story Theatre in Warren. The performance begins at 8 p.m. Call 247-4200.

Or head next door to Bristol to hear a tribute band do its best Dave Matthews Band vocal rasp at Gillary's Tavern, 198 Thames St. The performance starts at 9:30 p.m. Call 253-2012. The tribute band is Dancing Nancy.

In Providence, the Hi-Hat Trio with Mary Ann Solivan plays jazz at The Hi-Hat, 3 Davol Square. Call 453-6500. 8 p.m. to midnight.

See what else is happening around our area via projo.com's calendar of events.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:00 PM | Comment

Burrillville teacher talks down to wire tonight

BURRILLVILLE -- With the clock ticking on the start of the new school year, the teachers’ union might announce a strike later this evening.

Tomorrow is the first day of school, and lawyers representing both the union and the school district are still locked in contract negotiations.

Both sides reached out to the media earlier today in an effort to ensure open lines of communication later tonight – in the event that union officials decide to declare a strike.

The union said it would announce any decision about a strike around 10:30 p.m. and the schools superintendent, Steven Welford, said he would make a late-night statement on the prospect of school opening between 10:45 p.m. and 11 p.m.

A lawyer representing the district advised parents to log onto the school district’s Web site and tune into local television news channels to see if the first day of school would be delayed. Any change in the opening of school would be treated as a snow day, he said.

“We wanted to try and get this resolved,” said one union leader, Patrick M. Crowley, assistant executive director of the National Education Association of Rhode Island. “We’ve invested the time and effort into trying to get a deal that would work.”

“It’s not a matter of one group walking away,” he added. “It’s a matter of two sides that can’t reach a deal.”

The union’s representatives have negotiated with representatives of the town’s school committee on various occasions since November of last year.

The talks have been intense, and almost around the clock, in recent days.

On Monday, the union membership, numbering 203 teachers, voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike should their union leaders deem it necessary. That meant their negotiators had the power to call a strike when they sat down with the town’s lawyer and other officials for a final talk.

Meanwhile, the teachers went to work on Monday and today in advance of opening day.

-- Journal staff writer Mark Reynolds

Both sides reached out to the media late this afternoon in an effort to ensure open lines of communication later in the evening, when the newspapers went to press and television stations delivered their 11 p.m. broadcast. Projo.com will also carry a late-night report.

The union made plans to announce a strike. Meanwhile, the schools superintendent, Steven Welford, announced that he would make a late-night statement on the prospect of school opening.

Earlier in the day, the school committee’s lawyer, Benjamin M. Scungio, sent out a written news release that sought to reinforce the district’s commitment to continued negotiations.

“The school committee fully supports its teachers and the good work they do in the educational interests of the children in the town of Burrillville,” Scungio said. “The school committee is grateful that the teachers continue to perform their professional duties even though we have yet to achieve an agreement.”

The release also cited the town’s limited ability “to meet union financial requests.”

For example, a new state regulation requires high school teachers to spend 330 minutes per day in instructional time, the release says.

The requirement forced the district to hire five new teachers at a cost of more than $300,000, but the state did not supply any financial aid to help the district pay for the additional cost.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:59 PM | Comment

Providence police add live cams to fight crime

PROVIDENCE -- Saying it is a measure to prevent violent crime and behavior, the city police announced this afternoon that officers will be able to use portable video cameras in the Chad Brown public housing area to monitor the immediate vicinity.

The two portable Motorola surveillance cameras, which were acquired on loan, are going into use today.

They allow officers to remotely watch non-recorded, or live, activity in selected areas from terminals in their police cruisers, according to a news release.

"The current deployment is in response to recent violent criminal activity in the Chad Brown Housing Community," the police release said.

The camera are being used on "an experimental basis" and, if successful, the system can be placed in other locations to help officers prevent violent crime.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:41 PM | Comment

2 treated for smoke inhalation after kitchen fire

PROVIDENCE -- An adult and a child were treated for smoke inhalation after food being prepared on a stove ignited a kitchen fire in a two-story wood-frame house shortly before 4 a.m. today, a fire official said.

The blaze occurred at 237 Hartford Ave., in the Hartford neighborhood.

Assistant Fire Chief Michael J. Dillon said flames leaped up from the stove and spread to the kitchen cabinets. The fire was under control by 4:20 a.m., and the unidentified victims were treated at Rhode Island Hospital.

There was fire, smoke and water damage centered in the kitchen, but the house remains habitable, Dillon said.

-- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:08 PM | Comment

Police to target trucks, drunk drivers this weekend

PROVIDENCE -- Whether you’re driving an SUV full of children or an 18-wheeler with a load of cargo, the eyes of law enforcement will be on you in southern New England this Labor Day weekend.

The holiday weekends typically bring out extra police patrols on the roads to enforce highway safety. This weekend, though, the state police in three states are also scrutinizing the safety of truck drivers.

Using a grant from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, state police in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts are putting extra patrols on their interstates to focus on commercial truck drivers this weekend.

Col. Brendan Doherty, the superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police, said this weekend’s patrols are focusing on driver education and enforcement of commercial truck drivers.

State troopers in all three states will be pulling over trucks and checking for violations, while other troopers will be on the road watching for speeders and people driving aggressively, he said.

The state police leaders from all three states joined with Governor Carcieri and Atty. Gen. Patrick Lynch today to announce the highway safety initiative.

The effort will concentrate on all major corridors through the three states for inspections of commercial vehicles and reduce risky driving.

The Rhode Island state police are also putting five extra patrols out this weekend on all the state’s highways to curb drunken-driving, Doherty said.

“With traffic increasing as the unofficial end of summer is marked this weekend, it’s important to conduct this public exercise during which inspections of trucks and other commercial vehicles -- including the substantial numbers bearing hazardous cargo -- are intensified in all three participating states,” Lynch said in a statement.

“Although this enforcement effort is focusing on commercial vehicles, it also serves to heighten the need for all drivers to operate vehicles more safely and responsibly, and to conform with all laws and regulations of the road," Lynch said.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:37 PM | Comment

Bar closed where police say gang leader was shot

PROVIDENCE -- The city has shut down a bar where a Providence gang leader was shot early Saturday morning, after Providence Police said they fear that the bar might be the scene of reprisals.

Vidal “Lucky” Rodriguez, 33, who police said is a leader in the Almighty Latin Kings Nation, was gunned down outside The El Tiburon Sports Bar, at the corner of Valley Street and Harold Street, early Saturday morning.

Police say that the bar is a hangout for the Latin Kings, and could be the site of reprisals if not closed.

Monday, the city’s Board of Licenses held an emergency session and decided to shut the bar down until it could hold a full hearing on revocation of the bar’s license, scheduled for tomorrow afternoon, according to Assistant City Solicitor Max Foster.

If the incident is gang related, the city feared that El Tiburon could become a dangerous place.

“There’s a possibility that there may be reprisals,” Foster said.

The bar was closed effective Monday night, and should stay shuttered through tomorrow afternoon’s hearing.

-- Journal staff writer Daniel Barbarisi

Major Stephen Campbell, commander of the Police Department Investigative Division, said that they have made no arrests in the shooting and that despite Rodriguez’ gang association, they are not positive the killing was gang related.

“The motive is still unclear,” Campbell said. “We’ve made no arrests and the investigation is continuing.”

Rodriguez was standing on the sidewalk outside the bar when he was shot, and he was not alone at the time, Campbell said.

Campbell said that in addition to a team of detectives, the city’s gang unit and its liaisons with the State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are working the case.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:58 PM | Comment

Census: Number of R.I. children living in poverty drops

The number of Rhode Island children living in poverty decreased by nearly 25 percent from 2005 to 2006, according to data released this morning by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The data show a significant decrease in the poverty rate among Rhode Island children. Last year, 15.1 percent of children here were living in poverty – defined by the federal government as annual income of $16,242 or less for a family of three – compared to 19.5 percent of Rhode Island children the previous year.

That gives Rhode Island the 17th lowest rate of children in poverty among states in 2006. Rhode Island ranked 35th in 2005. The same year, it had the highest child poverty rate in New England. The new data put Rhode Island second to Maine, which had a child poverty rate of 17.6 percent.

Elizabeth Burke Bryant, executive director of Rhode Island Kids Count, hailed the findings as “good news for Rhode Island families.”

“Rhode Island is clearly making progress,” she said. “We must continue to invest in quality child care, early education and affordable health care for low-income families.”

The Census Bureau found that the rate of uninsured children remained stable from 2005 to 2006, at 6.4 percent, roughly half the national average of 11 percent.

For more information, read the Census Bureau's press release, which includes a link to the full report. A Powerpoint presentation showing highlights is also available.

-- Elizabeth Gudrais, Journal State House bureau

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 4:57 PM | Comment

Carcieri proceeds with privatization, conflict looms

PROVIDENCE – The Carcieri administration has selected the international firm Hurley of America, Inc. to replace scores of housekeeping employees at Eleanor Slater Hospital with private contractors.

The move, announced this afternoon, will save an estimated $13 million over the next five years, according to the governor's office.

The announcement represents a direct challenge to the General Assembly, which passed a law two months ago as part of the state budget aimed at slowing Carcieri’s aggressive push to expand privatization.

The Department of Administration's legal team reviewed the new law and felt it didn't apply to the current negotiation, which began before the Assembly passed the privatization provision in June, according to the governor's spokesman Jeff Neal.

“The Administration’s action is a violation of the law we enacted," House Majority Leader Gordon D. Fox said today. "The legislation is very clear that it applies to all pending awards and pending privatization contracts. I would like to see the Department of Administration’s legal opinion and analysis to the contrary.”

-- Steve Peoples, Journal State House Bureau

The new privatization law requires several steps that the Carcieri administration did not follow:

The director of administration must conduct an in-depth cost-benefit analysis 60 days prior to requesting bids from private companies.

Based on the analysis, current employees and their union representatives would first be given a chance to "present new cost estimates" for their own work, "reflecting any innovations that they could incorporate…"

The law prohibits the director of administration from awarding a contract to a private firm unless "the savings to the state is substantial," although it does not define "substantial" savings. And it gives "affected parties" - program recipients, state employees or unions - 60 days to appeal any privatization decision to a Superior Court judge.

Posted by Steve Peoples at 4:42 PM | Comment

Bill Cosby to perform at the Ryan Center

Comedian and actor Bill Cosby will perform on Nov. 3 at the the Ryan Center on the University of Rhode Island campus, the Ryan Center's managers announced today.

The performance is scheduled to begin at 8 PM. Presented by the URI Student Entertainment Committee, the show will be part of the university's family weekend.

Tickets for the public are $43 and will go on sale Sept. 7th at 10 AM. Tickets will be available at The Ryan Center box office, at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling Ticketmaster at (401) 331-2211 or, in Connecticut, (203) 624-0033.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:35 PM | Comment

E. Providence police seize $88,000 stuffed in shoes

EAST PROVIDENCE -- Some of these shoes were not made for walkin,' according to the police.

The police said today they seized $88,061 in cash stuffed inside shoes in three of the 150 to 200 shoe boxes found inside the bedroom of an East Providence man they arrested on drug charges yesterday.

Jared Demendonca, 28, of 18 Silver Spring Ave. was charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession with intent to deliver marijauna and possession of a controlled substance, said Sgt. Diogo Mello. He is being held at the Adult Correctional Institutions in Cranston pending a Sept. 11 bail hearing in Providence District Court, the police said.

Mello said the police used a search warrant at the address and seized 60 grams of marijuana, approximately 20 grams of cocaine and 10 Oxyconton tablets, plus the cash.

The police said they have been investigating Demondonca for the past two months.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:29 PM | Comment

Initiative linking housing, open space launches

Rhode Island Housing announced today it's prepared to invest up to $10 million to help support affordable housing that also preserves open space -- an investment that will support the first three to five such developments.

It's the agency's new KeepSpace Communities program, which aims to promote "development practices that preserve and enhance as much open space as possible while revitalizing existing areas that are underutilized or poorly developed," a news release says.

At the same time, a goal is to "support safe, healthy homes, a sound economy, sustainable infrastructure and a better environment."

The idea is for the housing communities created through this to be tailored to fit the flavor of the city or town they are in.

Officials and advocates have said in recent years that the state's affordable housing situation has reached crisis levels.

Rhode Island Housing says it will leverage its money with other public, private and non-profit agencies. It's seeking proposals from cities/towns and developers by Nov. 15. The expectation is that those chosen will integrate the involvement of government, business, and civic representatives, and result in replicable models of sustainable communities that would benefit all Rhode Islanders.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

KeepSpace will preserve our state's limited resources, provide jobs within the community, and contain attractive, quality homes that workers can afford," said Richard Godfrey, executive director of Rhode Island Housing, in the statement. "By engaging the state’s knowledge base of experts to work together, KeepSpace neighborhoods will be places where neighbors meet, people work and children play."

The new initiative is a collaboration among Rhode Island Housing, Grow Smart Rhode Island and the state Department of Planning.

To learn more, go to www.keepspace.org.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:24 PM | Comment

Update: Threat to Wal-Mart included $10,000 demand

Journal photo / Frieda Squires
State and Newport police, as well as members of the state fire marshal's bomb squad, responded to the Wal-Mart inside the shopping center on Connell Highway this morning.

NEWPORT -- In an incident similar to others around the country, the caller who made bomb threats to the Wal-Mart on Connell Highway today also demanded that $10,000 be wired to a location, and the Wal-Mart sent the money.

"This appears to be tied into some type of an elaborate money scheme," Sgt. James Quinn said this afternoon.

Quinn said there "have been several in a very short period of time, bearing very similar circumstances."

A similar threat was received today by a Wal-Mart in Salem, Va., according to a report on roanoke.com.

It's very likely the FBI will get involved, he added. And if the money has been sent to a foreign location, there could be international implications.

This latest information has led the police to believe the incident had nothing to do with a disgruntled employee or former employee of the giant retailing chain.

A Wal-Mart employee or employees used an in-house financial service in the store to wire three separate transactions totaling nearly $10,000 following the threats and demand.

Earlier today, a special response team was sent inside the Wal-Mart to determine if anyone was in the building after all of the employees were evacuated after the bomb threats were made.

-- projo.com writers Michael P. McKinney and Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Richard Salit

Newport police say they received a call from a store employee at about 6:50 a.m. employees had received three phone calls at the store where the caller threatened to do harm to the employees with a bomb.

Quinn said the employee took the threats seriously because the caller seemed to have more information about the store than the average person would.

No injuries were reported.

When police arrived, the 25 employees were all at the front of the building, but still inside. Quinn said it’s not clear why they did not immediately exit. Officials reacted as if it were a possible hostage situation, although it is still not clear if it was, Quinn said.

The employees all evacuated, and at about 9:30 a.m., the special response team went inside to conduct a “sweep” of the building, to see if there was someone in the building who had been threatening the employees.

Through a statement issued by Wal-Mart spokeswoman Sharon Weber, the company confirms there was an "incident" at the store "which gave us concern for the safety of our associates."

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:20 PM | Comment

An old way to cross Blackstone River re-opens

Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Rachel Meleleu of Cumberland was one of the first to try out the new bike path under the new span, called the Berkeley Martin Bridge, connecting Lincoln and Cumberland. Both were officially opened today. At right is a ramp leading down to the bike path.

More than 300 years ago, a low point in the Blackstone River was known as Martin’s Way. No one seems to remember who Martin was, but local officials say the spot was popular with people trying to push carts across the river from Lincoln to Cumberland.

Today, Department of Transportation Director Jerome Williams and Department of Environmental Protection Director W. Michael Sullivan joined other state and local officials at the official opening of the Berkeley Martin Bridge, reestablishing the former Martin’s Way as a route over the river.

They also re-opened the Blackstone River Bikeway, which now travels under the bridge, giving bikers and pedestrians a route that doesn’t cross traffic.

Previously, the river and Martin Street Canal had been spanned by two structures. The new bridge crosses the river, canal and bike path.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer John Hill

Edward Sanderson, the executive director of the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission, noted the history of Martin’s Way, saying the challenge in redesigning the juncture “was how do we meet 21st century needs for transportation with the history that has been here 300 years or more?”

Sullivan told a group of about 200 people – including many on bikes getting ready to hit the path – that he remembered fishing and kayaking in the river.

“What today is about for me,” he said, “is a restoration of those early childhood memories.”

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:26 PM | Comment

Central Falls police seek leads on missing woman

The Central Falls Police are asking the public to contact them if they see anyone fitting the description of a woman who was last seen Aug. 23 when she told others at a residential care facility that she was leaving and never coming back.

Darlene Teresa Rahman, 58, was wearing blue capri pants, white socks and sneakers and a blue and white flowered-print blouse when last seen at 10 a.m. around the 600 block of Broad Street, the police news release said.

She is described as a white female, five-feet-one-inch tall, weighing 140 pounds, with brown eyes and blondish-gray hair.

Rahman had been a voluntary resident at a Central Falls residential care facility sinc Aug. 2. She was free to come and go as she pleased, the police said. Before living at the Central Falls facility, she lived at an assisted living facility in Florida.

The police said she takes prescription medication and has been without since Aug. 23 and that her family indicated she has in the past disappeared for long time periods without contacting anyone.

She has no known history of beign a danger to herself or the community, the police said.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:08 PM | Comment

Rhode Island SATs: Math down; reading, writing up

The SAT scores for the Class of 2007 dipped nationally for the second year in a row, while in Rhode Island, math scores fell four points, and reading and writing scores increased slightly.

As in past years, high school seniors in Rhode Island trailed most of their New England neighbors, which are ranked among the highest in the country. Only Maine trailed Rhode Island, according to the College Board, which administers the test and released the most recent scores this morning.

In Rhode Island, 8,287 high school seniors took the college entrance exam, averaging 496 in reading, a 1-point increase over last year; 498 in math, a 4-point drop; and 492 in writing, a 2-point jump.

The scores lagged behind the national averages, which are 502, a 1-point drop from last year; 515 in math and 494 in writing, each down 3 points from last year. Each section is worth 800 possible points, for a total of 2,400.

Nationally, the College Board said scores had dropped because more students, including minority and low income – are taking the test than ever before.

Regionally, students in New Hampshire scored the highest once again: 521 in reading; 521 in math and 512 in writing.

Extra: Take a look at Rhode Island's 2007 SAT scores by school district.

-- Journal staff reporter Jennifer Jordan

Students in Massachusetts averaged 513 in reading, 522 in math and 511 in writing, while Vermont scored 516 in reading, 518 in math and 506 in writing. Connecticut averaged 510 in reading, 512 in math and 511 in writing.

Maine’s scores dipped significantly this year: 466 in reading, 465 in math and 457 in writing, but officials from the College Board said this was because the state now requires all high school seniors to take the exam, whether or not they intend to go to college.

About 1.49 million members of the class of 2007 took the test in their junior or senior years of high school, 24 percent of whom do not speak English exclusively at home.

In addition, the College Board reports a 31 percent increase in the number of low-income students who receive SAT waivers, which exempts them from paying the $43 exam fee over the past two years.

“The Class of 2007 is the largest and most diverse SAT takers on record … and 4 out of 10 were minority students,” said Laurence Bunin, senior vice president of operations for the College Board.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:03 PM | Comment

Update: Bomb scare spurs Wal-Mart evacuation

Journal photo / Frieda Squires
State and Newport police, as well as members of the state fire marshal's bomb squad, responded to the Wal-Mart inside the shopping center on Connell Highway this morning.

NEWPORT – A special response team is inside the Wal-Mart on Connell Highway to determine if anyone is in the building after all of the employees were evacuated earlier this morning when bomb threats were made, according to Sgt. James Quinn.

Newport police say they received a call from a store employee at about 6:50 a.m. reporting employees had received three phone calls at the store where the caller threatened to do harm to the employees with a bomb.

Quinn said the employee took the threats seriously because the caller seemed to have more information about the store than the average person would.

There are no injuries reported. There have been no arrests, and Quinn says there are no suspects at this time.

When police arrived, the 25 employees were all at the front of the building, but still inside. Quinn said it’s not clear why they did not immediately exit. Officials reacted as if it were a possible hostage situation, although it is still not clear if it was, Quinn said.

-- projo.com writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal writer Richard Salit

The employees all evacuated and at about 9:30 a.m., the special response team went inside to conduct a “sweep” of the building, to see if there was someone in the building who had been threatening the employees.

Through a statement issued by Wal-Mart spokeswoman Sharon Weber, the giant retail company confirms there was an "incident" at the store "which gave us concern for the safety of our associates."

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:50 PM | Comment

Baggage screener's sentencing postponed

PROVIDENCE -- A baggage screener at T.F. Green Airport who was found guilty in May of making a false statement on a federal security questionnaire because he didn't disclose previous employment and disability payments will be sentenced Oct. 2.

John Riccio of North Kingstown had initially been scheduled for sentencing today, but it is now slated for October. Riccio was suspended from the baggage position, which comes under the federal Transportation Security Administration, pending sentencing.

A federal jury found Riccio guilty of concealing his past on a security questionnaire issued by TSA. According to the jury, Riccio failed to tell TSA about a prior job with Wal-Mart, where he was collecting disability payments for an on-the-job injury.

The jury reached a verdict after a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Ernest C. Torres in Providence

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:47 PM | Comment

Census: U.S. poverty rate declines

The U.S. Census Bureau released new data on income, poverty and health insurance coverage this morning.

Nationwide, median household income increased seven tenths of a percent from 2005 to 2006, the census bureau found. Real median household income increased to $48,200, but is still below the 1999 level when adjusted for inflation.

The poverty rate declined from 12.6 percent in 2005 to 12.3 percent to 2006.

The uninsured rate increased from 15.3 percent to 15.8 percent, for a total of 47 million U.S. residents without health insurance in 2006.

The census bureau is making state-by-state data available later today, and Rhode Island Kids Count will comment on the Rhode Island data this afternoon. Come back to projo.com later for an update, and read full coverage in tomorrow’s print edition.

-- By Elizabeth Gudrais, Journal State House bureau

Posted by Jack Perry at 11:10 AM | Comment

Photo: A reassuring touch on the first day of school

Journal photo / Kathy Borchers
Principal Tricia Caparelli, starting her third year at George J. Peters Elementary School in Cranston, reassures Richard Lepre, 6, first grader, as he waits in line with his classmates on his first day of school. Cranston is among five districts returning to school today -- the first to do so this year.

School was also starting today in North Smithfield, Portsmouth, Bristol-Warren, and Chariho, which includes elementary schools in Charlestown, Richmond and Hopkinton, as well as the Chariho high and middle schools. Many more districts kick off their openings in the coming days or next week, after the Labor Day holiday on Monday. See which district starts when, according to the state Department of Education statewide school calendar for 2006-7.

Posted by Jack Perry at 11:05 AM | Comment

R.I. building permits up in second quarter

The number of single-family home building permits issued in Rhode Island increased in the second quarter to 409, compared to 384 during the second quarter of last year, according to data released by the Rhode Island Builders Association. That's an increase of 6.5 percent.

The increase is not enough to offset a weak first quarter, which was down 17.3 percent, compared to the first quarter of 2006.

For the first six months of 2007, 752 permits were issued, compared to 799 last year, a decline of about 5.9 percent.

“The housing market continues to show signs of cooling in response to past overheated conditions,” said Roger Warren, executive director of the builders association. “Yet it is important to understand that this correction is leading us to a healthier market with greater choices of available stock and a better balance between buyers and sellers.”

“Moreover, Rhode Island’s market is performing quite well, in comparison to other parts of the country,” Warren said in a statement.

-- Timothy C. Barmann, Journal staff writer

Warren said inventories are now closer to historic levels and interest rates are still near all-time lows.

In an interview, Warren said that it appears that people who are considering building a home have been holding off.

“If you look at Rhode Island, the economy is basically good,” he said. People have been unsure how the fallout from the subprime loan market might affect them, he said, so they have waited.

“The market is coming back,” he said. “It’s really a matter of consumer confidence that’s holding it back.”

Of Rhode Island’s 39 cities and towns, 15 showed a second-quarter increase in building permits, 22 had a decrease, and 2 were unchanged.

Communities with the biggest increases in building permits issued in the second quarter were New Shoreham, which issued 26 permits, up 767 percent from 3 in the second quarter of last year; Lincoln, with 11 permits issued, up 450 percent; and North Kingstown, with 55 permits issued, up 358 percent.

The biggest declines were seen in North Smithfield, with 4 permits issued, compared to 21 in the second quarter last year; Jamestown, with 3 permits issued, compared to 9 last year; Barrington, with 3 permits issued, compared to 8 last year; Portsmouth, with 10 permits issued, compared to 24 last year; and Providence, with 13 permits issued, compared to 27 last year.

-- Timothy C. Barmann, Journal staff writer

Posted by maria caporizzo at 10:41 AM | Comment

Pawtucket lauded for thorough recycling program

What happens to your garbage after the trucks pick it up? If you live in Pawtucket, someone is going through it.

It’s not the paparazzi; it’s the department of public works, separating cardboard, unfinished wood and metal – all of which can be recycled – from everything else destined for the central landfill in Johnston.

Today at 10 a.m., Mayor James Doyle will head a ceremony at Pawtucket City Hall to acknowledge the city’s progress, which was recently credited by the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation -- with New Shoreham and West Warwick -- as one of the most improved municipal recycling programs.

The three split a $25,000 prize.

-- projo.com staff write. Brandie M. Jefferson

Pawtucket Public Works Director Jack Carney says the city will use its $8,333 award money to hire inspectors to monitor residential recycling. If people aren’t using the mandated blue or green recycle bins, Carney said, the town will notify the resident of a violation.

The city has been able to pull it off thanks the the addition of a recycling coordinator, Dennis Leach, and "a constant effort on everybody's part to pull everyone out the mainstream that we can."

“We want to continue to do more,” he said.

Twenty-one cities and towns were recognized for their recycling efforts.

Find out more about recycling in your city or townhere.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:04 AM | Comment

Providence fire sends 2 to hospital

Officials are investigating an early morning fire that broke out at 235 Hartford Avenue in Providence.

The call came in at about 3:45 a.m. Firefighters had the blaze under control by about 4 a.m.

Two people were taken to the hospital with respiratory problems.

Firefighters believe the fire started in the kitchen.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 8:28 AM | Comment

Mashpee chairman removed for lying

MASHPEE, Mass. (AP) -- The Mashpee Wampanoag tribal council has voted to immediately remove Glenn Marshall as chairman following his acknowledgment that he lied about his military service and was convicted of rape in 1981.

Marshall met with the council Monday night and offered to resign effective in 30 days, but the council voted 9-1 to make his resignation effective immediately, said Greg D'Agostino, a spokesman for the tribe.

The tribe, with Marshall at the helm, won federal recognition this year and is trying to build a $1 billion casino in the southeastern Massachusetts town of Middleborough.

-- The Associated Press

Vice chairman Shawn Hendricks, who presided over Monday's meeting, now becomes chairman, D'Agostino said.

"I hope we can unify and bring our tribe back together," Hendricks told the Times after Monday's meeting.

Marshall handed over his day-to-day duties to Hendricks on Friday after the rape conviction and military record lies were made public in a story in the Cape Cod Times.

Hendricks plans to take the next step on Thursday, D'Agostino said, filing a petition with the federal government to take more than 500 acres of land in land Middleborough and 100 acres in Mashpee into a trust.

The Legislature still needs to approve expanded gambling before a full-scale casino can be built. Gov. Deval Patrick, who made a surprise visit to Mashpee when the tribe celebrated its federal recognition, has said he would announce his gambling position around Labor Day.

A published telephone listing for Marshall could not immediately be found.

The spokesman said said the tribal council met in executive session, then invited Marshall to join them. The council took its vote in an open session with about 45 tribe members present, he said. Council member Nellie Ramos cast the dissenting vote, he said.

"Glenn is my cousin, I'm proud of what he's done," tribe members Anne Peters Brown told the Times as she stood in front of Marshall's car outside the meeting.

Another tribe member, Winnie Johnson Graham told the newspaper, "I'm just glad it's over and done with." She had said before the vote she wanted to see a new council entirely.

Many of the onlookers headed to another meeting of tribe members nearby, the newspaper said, where some members had said they would bring up the issue of recalling the council. The meeting continued late Monday night.

The tribe will elect a new vice chairman in October. Marshall was in his second four-year term. The next scheduled election is 2008.

Marshall said Friday he let misstatements about his service stand. He said he was giving up day-to-day duties to "deal with the mental and physical issues I'm facing."
"I am sorry to have distorted my record and to allow it to stand uncorrected," he said in his statement Friday.

Marshall also acknowledged the rape conviction in an interview with The Boston Globe published Saturday.

"It's an apology to my family, tribe, and the Commonwealth," Marshall said. "I could only ask that they could forgive me, because I'm not a bad person."

The Cape Cod Times, citing its own archives and court records, reported that Marshall was convicted in 1981 of raping a 22-year-old visitor to the Cape. Marshall was accused of sexually assaulting the woman in a secluded spot in West Barnstable after offering to drive her from a party to her sister's house.

Marshall, 57, was sentenced to five years in state prison, but served just three months before being released on probation, court records show.

During a congressional oversight hearing on the tribe's request for federal recognition in 2004, Marshall testified he survived the siege of Khe Sahn, during which Marines fought back a 77-day onslaught by the North Vietnamese from January to April of 1968. Marshall made the same claim in a Cape Cod Times interview in 1998 and before a state gaming panel in 2002.

But during the siege, Marshall was still a senior in high school in Falmouth. School records confirm he graduated from Lawrence High School on June 9, 1968, a school spokeswoman said.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 8:12 AM | Comment

Eclipse was a special companion this morning

Today's drive to work was a special treat, which is something I usually can't say about my commute from Cape Cod. I have to leave the house at 5:30 a.m.

For the first 15 or 20 minutes, I kept one eye on the road and one on the sky, monitoring the lunar eclipse.

The highlight came as I crossed the Bourne Bridge. To the east, the sky was brightening and the rising sun had turned the thin, low clouds and fog red and orange. A cabin cruiser plowed through the calm, silvery water of the Cape Cod Canal, spreading a ripply V in its wake. To the west, a dark shadow had eclipsed the top of the moon, leaving a bright white bowl hovering over the mouth of the canal.

Not long after I reached Route 25, the moon, more than half blocked, looked like a contact lens. I wondered if other drivers, struggling to wake up, even noticed. I hoped they did. On the other side of the highway, a car had pulled over. I looked to see if it had broken down. No. Somebody was standing by the driver's side door, holding a camera over the roof.

As the moon dropped and sky brightened, it became tougher to catch a glimpse.
Trees and fog in low areas obscured my view. I searched the sky after turning onto Route 195 to see if I could find it again. I kept looking for several minutes, but I had lost it.

It felt like I had dropped off a friend and had to make the rest of the ride alone.

-- Jack Perry, projo.com staff writer

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:22 AM | Comment

It's back to school for kids in 5 districts today

Look out for the yellow buses this morning.

School starts in the Cranston, North Smithfield, Portsmouth, Bristol-Warren and Chariho districts today.

Teachers' unions have signed contracts in all five of these districts.

Find information about your local schools and share back-to-school pictures, here.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:02 AM | Comment

Another beautiful day on the way

Another beautiful day today with the National Weather Service calling for clear, sunny skies and a high near 81 degrees.

Tonight should be clear as well, with a low of 61 and a calm South wind.

Tomorrow, more sun and a high in the low 80s.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page featueres a story on the start of the school year for Rhode Island children.

Download a copy of the front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 27, 2007

Fund invests more in Concordia Fibers' transformation

COVENTRY -- The Slater Technology Fund, a taxpayer-backed source of venture capital, has invested an additional $250,000 in Concordia Fibers.

In all, Slater has now invested $500,000 in the 87-year-old company, which has transformed itself from a producer of synthetic yarns and threads for textile plants to a biotechnology firm making material that can be implanted in the human body.

Slater first invested in Concordia, based in Coventry, in 2003.

--Journal Staff Writer Benjamin N. Gedan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:22 PM | Comment

Update: Fire heavily damages Johnston house

JOHNSTON -- The police blocked off busy Atwood Avenue this morning while firefighters battled a blaze that caused heavy damage to a house at 1056 Atwood.

Fire Chief Andrew J. Baynes said the fire broke out around 11 a.m. in the single-family house, which at the time was occupied by two women and a small child. He said the first engine company to arrive found flames erupting from the front of the wood-frame structure and from its roof.

He said the engine company, only two firefighters strong, “did a magnificent job” of rescuing the occupants and keeping the fire from spreading while other companies arrived.

The names of the occupants were not available.

Baynes said he summoned fire equipment from surrounding communities to stand guard in Johnston stations during the operation. He also requested an engine and rescue truck from Cranston, the former to relieve Johnston firefighters laboring on a hot day.

The chief said that the cause of the fire had not yet been determined, but that it did not appear suspicious.

Police officers blocked Atwood at Morgan Avenue and at Plainfield Street, sending vehicles on a long, winding detour. Atwood Avenue is also state Route 5, a heavily traveled secondary highway.

-- Journal staff writer Thomas J. Morgan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:18 PM | Comment

2 men die in incidents off Narragansett shore

NARRAGANSETT -- Sunday afternoon proved to be a deadly stretch in this seaside town.

Evan Davidson, 43, of Brewster, Mass., and another man were in the water off Hazard Avenue preparing to scuba dive. Davidson had not yet dived yet and was apparently looking for a lost fin when something happened to him, according to the police. His friend helped to get him out of the water, and some on shore called for help.

The call came in at 1:15 p.m. and Davidson was taken to South County Hospital where he was pronounced dead, the police said.

In an unrelated incident reported at 2:48 p.m., Americo Dipetrillo, 53, of Coventry died after he had been seen struggling in waters north of the Town Beach, north of the Dunes Club, according to the police.

A surfer helped Dipetrillo get out of the water. Dipetrillo collapsed on the beach, accoring to the police, and a lifeguard and bysander did CPR on him when rescue personnel arrived. Dipetrillo was taken to South County Hospital.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Randal Edgar

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:50 PM | Comment

First R.I. mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus

EAST PROVIDENCE -- A pool of mosquitoes in East Providence has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

It's the first time this year that scientists detected the mosquito-borne disease in Rhode Island.

State environmental authorities say the mosquitoes were taken from a trap set near the border with Seekonk, Mass., early last week. Results from an additional 75 mosquito pools are still pending.

The disease, which can be fatal, is spread when mosquitoes bite humans. Symptoms range from mild flu-like illness to inflammation of the brain and coma.

The Department of Environmental Management recommends people prevent mosquito bites by using screens in open windows and wearing bug spray, but with no more than 30 percent DEET. Don't use repellant on infants.

IThe DEM also advises homeowners to get rid of water puddles so the bugs can't breed there. People should put mosquito netting over playpens and baby carriages when outside.

"The positive findings are not unexpected," said Alan Gettman, the DEM mosquito abatement coordinator. "We are at the height of the mosquito-borne diseases transmission season. "

So far, no mosquitoes have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

-- The Associated Press and projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Meanwhile, in neighboring Connecticut, state health officials have confirmed that a fourth person has come down with the West Nile virus this season.

The unidentified resident of Hartford became ill during the first week of August and was likely exposed to infected mosquitoes during the last week of July. The person, who is between 40 and 49 years old, was briefly hospitalized and has recovered.

The person's symptoms were fever, headaches, joint and muscle pain, stiff neck and lack of coordination.

The three others who contracted the disease this summer were from Danbury, New London and Woodbridge and have recovered.

-- Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:00 PM | Comment

It's back to school in 5 R.I. districts tomorrow / Photo

Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Francisco Aguair, of Bristol, custodian at the Guiteras Elementary School in Bristol, installs new, electronically set clocks that will show the same time in every classroom in the Bristol-Warren school district. The clocks receive a satellite signal that sets them according to the most precise clock of all, the national atomic clock. The Guiteras school opens tomorrow at 8:55 a.m. -- ET, that is.

Get out the backpacks, new outfits and this year's latest techno gadget.

School starts tomorrow in five Rhode Island districts: Cranston, North Smithfield, Portsmouth, Bristol-Warren, and Chariho, which includes elementary schools in Charlestown, Richmond and Hopkinton, as well as the Chariho high and middle schools.

None of the districts beginning school tomorrow are among those with teacher unions that have not signed contracts.

Many more districts kick off their openings in the coming days or next week, after the Labor Day holiday on Monday. See which district starts when, according to the state Department of Education statewide school calendar for 2006-7.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:50 PM | Comment

Sex offender wanted on Mass. charge found in Warren

An unregistered sex offender living in Warren was in Taunton District Court today on a charge he exposed himself to a little girl at a Lowe’s home improvement store in Seekonk, Mass., this month.

Seekonk police informed Warren police last Friday that Paul Stockford, 40, was living in Warren and that they had a warrant for his arrest on a charge of open and gross lewdness. He had been arrested on the charge in Massachusetts previously, said Seekonk Capt. Craig Mace

Stockford had been living for several months at 7 Union St., Warren, said Warren Police Lt. Joseph Loiselle. Early Saturday morning, just after midnight, Officer Christopher Perreault located him in the passenger seat of a car that he pulled over on Main Street. He arrested him without incident.

Stockford admitted that he had been arrested previously for indecent exposure and that he had lived in Pawtucket and registered with police there as a sex offender, presumably as a Level 1 offender.

Level 1 offenders, deemed a “low risk” to the public, are not identified on the Web site of the Rhode Island Parole Board & Sex Offender Community Notification Unit. The names of Level 2 and Level 3 offenders do appear on the Web site, but Stockford’s name is not among them.

Warren police charged Stockford with failing to register as a sex offender, a felony. He was arraigned, released on bail of $2,000 with surety and ordered to return to court on Sept. 10. Then Seekonk police took custody of him.

-- Journal staff writer Richard Salit

On Aug. 15, Stockford “exposed himself to a 6-year-old girl” in the lighting aisle of the store, said Capt. Mace. He said that the girl told an adult what happened and that store employees were notified of the incident. Employees located the man’s vehicle while he was leaving and were able to give police a description of it, Mace said.

The Seekonk charge of open and gross lewdness, subsequent offense, is a felony, Mace said.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:12 PM | Comment

Gas prices keep on dropping

Regular, unleaded self-serve gasoline is down about 7 cents to $2.689 according to the American Automobile Association’s weekly gas price survey.

That's six straight weeks of lower prices.

And it's down from a year ago at this time, too, when the average price for regular gasoline in the Ocean State was $2.96.

The national average for regular gasoline is $2.74

Mid-grade gasoline averages $2.82 across the state while premium is selling for $2.94.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 3:44 PM | Comment

Anniversary of women getting the vote to be noted

PROVIDENCE – Planned Parenthood is inviting residents to celebrate Women’s Equality Day at the State House today.

The rally begins at 4 p.m. The event commemorates the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, giving women the right to vote.

The ceremony isn’t just for women; Planned Parenthood will be registering people to vote and discussing the history of the women’s suffrage movement.

Find out more about how to register to vote in Rhode Island.

Read President Bush's proclamation on Women's Equality Day 2007.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 3:37 PM | Comment

Update: Ginaitt quits Assembly, citing job responsibilities

PROVIDENCE -- State Rep. Peter T. Ginaitt, who led efforts to reform the state's fire code in recent years, is leaving the General Assembly.

The Warwick Democrat,46, will resign his post after 15 years in the legislature, effective this Friday, citing increased responsibilities at his job at Rhode Island Hospital.

As a Fire Department captain, Ginaitt had been one of the first responders at the disastrous Station nightclub fire in 2003, which spurred efforts to strengthen the state's fire code.

He was co-chair of the House Oversight Commission to Study the Ramifications of the Fire Safety Code, an advisory committee also chaired by Rep. Joseph Trillo, R-Warwick.

-- Steve Peoples, Journal State House Bureau

"I am shocked and disappointed. It’s like a kick in the stomach, to be honest," Trillo said when notified of Ginaitt's departure this afternoon. "Peter brought a unique aspect to the fire issue – he was a fireman, a first responder, in a leadership position. He brought a unique set of skills to the table."

The commission produced a package of legislation, backed by the state fire marshal, that cleared the House but failed to win Senate approval in the session's final hours in June.

Ginaitt was recently promoted from his position at Rhode Island Hospital, where he had served as director of emergency preparedness. He will now assume the position of director of emergency preparedness for the entire Lifespan hospital network, which includes Hasbro Children's Hospital, Miriam Hospital, Newport Hospital and Bradley Hospital.

Ginaitt won his eighth consecutive election in November, running unopposed. There will be a special election to fill his post within the next three months.

Ginaitt, first elected to the Assembly in 1992, also chairs the Environment and Natural Resources Committee and is the vice chair of the Health, Education and Welfare Committee.

Ginaitt's absence isn't expected to have an immediate impact on the Assembly, which isn't expected to reconvene until January. While in session from January to June, the Assembly generally conducts business starting at 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.

State law requires a special election to be held between 70 and 90 days from the date of Ginaitt's departure from the Assembly.

Trillo continued:

"He was the kind of guy who had a pretty good relationship with everybody. You could argue with him – and I had some heated arguments with him – but you could move past it and work together," he said. "Sometimes you get the most accomplished when you don’t see eye to eye. Especially when you keep and open mind. And Peter always had an open mind."

Matt Auten, of Environment Rhode Island, said it was "tough to sum up" how important Ginaitt has been to the environmental community.

He added, "Chairmen Ginaitt was a true environmental champion working both in public and behind the scenes to protect Rhode Island’s air, water and open spaces. As a member of the House leadership team, he was a key player in moving pro-environmental legislation forward, including bills to promote renewable energy, phase-out mercury from household and commercial products and to reduce global warming pollution. "

Posted by Steve Peoples at 3:16 PM | Comment

Update: Foster man killed in motorcycle crash ID'd

The police this afternoon identified the Foster man killed in a motorcycle accident in Glocester this morning as James R. Wilson, 61, of 191 Hartford Pike.

He was driving a 2005 Harley Davidson south on Reynolds Road just north of Route 101 at about 1:20 a.m. The police say he was riding around a slight curve when he lost control, driving off the right side of the road and hitting several trees.

The police are investigating. So far, they say, there is no obvious reason for the crash.

-- projo.com staff writers Brandie Jefferson and Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer John Hill

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:12 PM | Comment

R.I. among states doing best keeping obesity at bay

PROVIDENCE -- New England residents are faring well in the battle of the bulge.

A survey released today by a national health advocacy group shows that Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Vermont have among the lowest adult obesity rates in the country.

The report was issued by Trust for America's Health.

It measured obesity rates for adults in all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. It also looked at overweight rates of children ages 10 to 17.

Experts say there are multiple reasons for the report's findings.

They say the New England population on the whole tends to be higher-earning and better-educated than people in other parts of the country. They also say the cities are more walkable and the approach to eating is different.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:41 PM | Comment

$200,000 Powerball win waits to be claimed

A $200,000 ticket was sold in Providence during the national drawing for the $314.3 million Powerball jackpot on Saturday. The Providence prize has not yet been claimed.

The jackpot was drawn in Indiana, but someone bought a ticket at El Bombazo Market, 981, Broad St., Providence, entitling him or her to the $200,000 prize, the Rhode Island Lottery announced today.

The $200,000 ticket matched the first five numbers but not the Powerball number. The winning numbers are: 2 8 23 29 35 and Powerball 19.

There were also four $10,000 tickets sold in Rhode Island. They were purchased at: Stop & Shop, 300 Quaker Lane, Warwick; Colbea Enterprises, 7025 Post Road, North Kingstown; Diamond Hill General, 3782 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland; and North Tiverton News, 15 Main Road, Tiverton.

The one at Diamond Hill General has been claimed but the others have not, Rhode Island Lottery said in a news release this morning.

The Rhode Island Lottery is at 1425 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, (401) 463-6500 or at www.rilot.com.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:20 PM | Comment

Dunkin' D's: Coffee, doughnuts but hold the trans fat

Those who troop into a Dunkin' Donuts every morning on, well, every corner in Rhode Island use words like "coffee," "bacon," "egg" and, for the daring, "chocolate frosted."

Now Dunkin' Donuts is adding to the vocabulary list "zero grams trans fat." If that doesn't quite slide off the tongue, it may keep more of the pounds sliding off you.

Your Turn:How will this change your morning routine?

All new menu offerings nationwide will be zero grams trans fat by Oct. 15, the popular chain announced today. "This includes the brand's signature doughnuts," a news release says.

The zero-trans fat doughnuts are already being served in New York City and Philadelphia. They've been served in about 400 restaurants around the country as part of a "nationwide blind test" over a four-month period.

The news may be of special importance in Rhode Island, where the trip-over-each-franchise proximity of the doughnut shops is legendary. Dunkin Brands Inc.'s chief told the Journal last summer that a goal was to have one store for every 12,000 people in a given market. There were 6,500 shops in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states at the time; a goal was to have 15,000 east of the Mississippi.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:04 PM | Comment

R.I. delegation welcomes Gonzales's resignation

Rhode Island's two senators and one of its congressmen, all Democrats, issued statements this morning, indicating that Attorney General Alberto Gonzales's resignation was overdue and necessary to restore confidence in the office.

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed said, "This departure is long overdue. During his tenure in the Bush Administration, Alberto Gonzales has been involved in policies that have undermined our standing in the world and our historic commitment to the rule of law. Although he plans to leave office, the investigations into his stewardship of the Department of Justice should continue. The next Attorney General needs to be someone who is competent and can restore credibility to the Department of Justice,” said Reed, a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) which oversees federal spending of the Department of Justice.

Reed's statement noted that on Feb. 2, 2005, during the floor debate over the Gonzales nomination, Reed stated: “It is Judge Gonzales’s failure to defend and support our Constitution, our federal laws, and our treaty obligations that leads me to believe he does not have the wisdom or judgment to be our next Attorney General.”

U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse said, “It’s been clear for months that Alberto Gonzales’s resignation is in the best interest of the country. This is also good news for the Department of Justice, but a great deal of work remains to be done to restore Americans’ confidence in this great Department, to restore its traditions and spirit, and to restore its ability to fairly and dispassionately enforce the law. Fortunately, there are many people of both parties who know and love this Department who I'm sure would be glad to help.

“I hope that whoever the President nominates to be the new Attorney General at this critical time will put the interests of the Department, its employees, and the American people foremost – before partisanship, and before politics.”

U.S. Rep. Jim Langevin's said, "When I traveled the District this summer, my constituents told me -- loud and clear -- that they are fed up with the President and his policies - in particular those policies implemented by the nation's top law enforcement officer. This resignation is the right thing for Attorney General Gonzales to do, as the public's confidence in him has been severely compromised. The position of Attorney General is too critical to suffer from lack of credibility. I look forward to the President nominating a professional who can get us past this dark chapter for the Justice Department."

Langevin's statement also noted that the Rhode Island congressman had joined his colleagues this summer in cosponsoring a no-confidence resolution, which urged President Bush to request that the attorney general step down.

Posted by Jack Perry at 12:01 PM | Comment

Pats' Samuel rejoins teammates in Foxboro

Asante Samuel is indeed here at Gillette Stadium and has re-joined his Patriots teammates.

You can read more about this story on the projo PatsBlog.

-- Journal sports writer Shalise Manza Young

Posted by Jack Perry at 10:52 AM | Comment

Foster man, 61, killed in Glocester motorcycle crash

The Glocester police say a 61-year-old Foster man was killed in a motorcycle accident on Reynolds Road early this morning.

The police are withholding his name until all family members are notified.

The man was driving a 2005 Harley Davidson south on Reynolds Road just north of Route 101 at about 1:20 a.m.

The police say he was driving around a slight curve when he lost control, driving off the right side of the road and hitting several trees.

The police are investigating.

So far, they say, there is no obvious reason for the crash.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:37 AM | Comment

Divers begin assessing sunken Russian sub

The Army and Navy are hoping to rescue a bit of history while sharpening their skills.

Begining today, 30 Army and Navy divers began studying Juliette 484 -- known to many simply as the Russian Sub -- which sank in Providence Harbor after a heavy storm in April.

Frank Lennon, head of the Russian Submarine Museum, says the plan is to stabilize the submarine by rotating it with cables into a more upright position. Right now it's settled into river mud, listing away from the pier at about 48 degrees.

Studying and securing the submarine at the bottom of the Bay is expected to cost the military more than $1 million. They'll require budgetary approval to move on to the next phase: actually raising the submarine.

What do you think should be done to the submarine?

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:33 AM | Comment

Driver shot by Attleboro police to be arraigned

John Peters is scheduled for arraignment in Attleboro District Court today.

An Attleboro police officer shot the 44-year-old Milford, Mass., man in the arm Friday after he allegedly tried to run them down in what the police said was a stolen car.

He'll be charged with assault with a deadly weapon, possession of stolen property, and a host of driving violations, the Attleboro police say.

The police say 45-year-old Joyce Sumpter, also of Milford, was in the car with Peters. She was arraigned and released on personal recognizance Friday. She faces stolen vehicle charges.

The officer who shot Peters, Gilbert Bechtel, 37, is on paid leave while the shooting is investigated.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:29 AM | Comment

Get up early tomorrow to see the lunar eclipse

Here's a reason to roll out of bed at 4:30 in the morning:

Total lunar eclipse.

For the second time this year, the Earth will be positioned between the sun and the full moon, blocking the direct sunlight that usually reflects off the moon's surface.

See a video explaining the phenomenon here.

The eclipse will begin at 4:51 a.m. when the moon begins to make its way into the Earth's shadow.

The moon will take on a copper-red glow once it is fully eclipsed, at about 5:52 a.m.; it will be fully engulfed in shadow for about one and a half hours.

The sun will begin to rise as the moon sets. And for East Coasters, the moon will still be in the sun’s shadow as it sets.

North America can see up to three total lunar eclipses a year. This is the second this year, but the first that will be visible throughout the continental United States.

If you can’t pry yourself out of bed at 4:30 a.m. you’re in luck. The next total lunar eclipse -- visible to the entire continent -- will be February 21, starting at 7:30 p.m.

See the schedule for upcoming eclipses -- through the year 2100 – on NASA's lunar eclipse Web site.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:19 AM | Comment

Victim's parents support parole for Biechele

Dave Kane and Joanne O’Neil say Daniel Biechele should be considered for parole.

Although Biechele lit the pyrotechnics that started the fire at the Station Nightclub that killed 100 people – including the their son, Nicholas O’Neill -- the two say he is the only person involved in the fire who has accepted responsibility.

In a letter to the Rhode Island Parole Board, they say “Biechele’s honest and straight forward acknowledgement of his guilt and his remorse” was the only justice to come out of the Station Fire aftermath.

Biechele, the former tour manager for the rock band Great White, pleaded guilty to 100 counts of involuntary manslaughter for the 2003 nightclub fire. He began serving a four-year prison sentence last summer.

He will be considered for parole on Sept. 19.

Click below to read the entire text of the letter.

Ms. Lisa S. Holley
Chairperson,
Rhode Island Parole Board
Department of Corrections
40 Howard St.
Cranston, RI 02920

Dear Ms. Holley,

We, the parents of Nicholas P. O’Neill, the youngest victim of the Station Nightclub fire, are writing to you to express our feelings regarding the possible parole of Daniel M. Biechele. In the period following this tragedy, it was Mr. Biechele, alone, who stood up and admitted responsibility for his part in this horrible event. He apologized to the families of the victims and made no attempt to mitigate his guilt.

Although, Mr. Biechele was the person who lit the fuse, there are still many more people who had a huge part in this tragedy that may never be brought before the court. When you add to this the abysmal actions and misdeeds of both the Trial Judge and the prosecution team, you will find that we were left with only one scintilla of justice. That came with Mr. Biechele’s honest and straight forward acknowledgement of his guilt and his remorse.

Although, we are sure that there are victim’s families who feel that Daniel Biechele should have received a life sentence, our family members feel that enough lives have been damaged and destroyed by this fire. It is, therefore, our belief that Mr. Biechele should be seriously considered for parole at this time.

Respectfully,
Joanne O’Neill
Dave Kane
Parents of Nicholas O’Neill

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 8:22 AM | Comment

Farmer's Almanac predicts rough winter in East

LEWISTON, Maine -- Keep your boots, long johns and snow shovels handy this winter if you live in the East, the Farmers' Almanac's forecast suggests. Residents of the West, however, can look forward to a milder winter this time around.

"Mother Nature is going to be sort of two-faced," almanac editor Peter Geiger said.

The almanac's 2008 edition, which goes on sale tomorrow, foresees plenty of snow across the Northeast, temperatures averaging as much as 3 degrees below normal along most of the Atlantic Coast, and four major frosts as far south as Florida. The Great Lakes region will also take a pounding.

The outlook is tamer for the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, the desert Southwest and the Pacific Coast, but Geiger said snow in Colorado will be more than adequate for skiing.

Read the full Associated Press story.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:50 AM | Comment

Pats' Samuel expected in camp this morning

Asante Samuel will report to Gillette Stadium this morning, ending his de facto holdout, a source close to the cornerback confirmed last night.

When Samuel arrives, expected to be prior to the team's 8 a.m. meeting, he will sign the one-year, $7.79 million franchise tender and prepare for his fifth NFL season.

The 26-year old left his Florida home last night to fly to the area. He has missed 31 days of training camp, though he has not amassed any fines because he was not under contract.

New England designated Samuel as its franchise player in February, after the corner had a career-high and league-best 10 interceptions last year. He added two more picks in the playoffs, both of which he returned for touchdowns. Samuel has three career postseason interception returns for touchdowns, tying an NFL record.

Samuel's representatives and Patriots' brass tried to work out a long-term deal for several months, but an agreement could not be reached before the July deadline. The two sides cannot resume talks until after the conclusion of the regular season; the option also exists for the Patriots to franchise Samuel again for the 2008 season. If that happens, he will receive an estimated $9.5 million - the average of the top five salaries at his position plus 20 percent.

It will be interesting to see when Samuel gets on the field. Though he has been working out in Florida throughout the offseason, he is probably not game-ready.

Without him during training camp, third-year corner Ellis Hobbs has slid into the number one role. After veteran Chad Scott suffered a season-ending injury on the first day of camp, Randall Gay has performed well opposite Hobbs.

While Samuel's return likely means Gay will be coming off the bench, it also gives New England good depth at the position.

-- Journal sports writer Shalise Manza Young

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:09 AM | Comment

Revelations about chairman fueling rift within tribe

BOSTON -- The revelation that Mashpee Wampanoag tribal Chairman Glenn Marshall lied about his military service and was convicted of rape in 1981 is fueling a rift within the tribe as they seek to build a $1 billion casino in Massachusetts.

One of five members of the tribe shunned by the tribal council in December is calling for an emergency meeting of the tribe today to discuss the situation.

"Our people understand that we have been called to action and plan to follow up with Mr. Marshall's announcement," Michelle Fernandes, one of five members shunned by the council, told the Cape Cod Times. "We're looking to prevent Glenn Marshall from returning to the tribal council."

Read the full Associated Press story.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:02 AM | Comment

Sunny with a high near 80 today

It should be sunny and warm today with a high of 80 degrees. The National Weather Service is also predicting an East wind of about 9 mph.

The overnight low should be about 60 degrees.

Tomorrow, look for more of the same: sunny and warm.

For more weather and updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features photographs and a story about yesterday's rally to protest alleged brutality by North Providence police officers.

Download a copy of today's front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 24, 2007

What's happening: Meddling matchmakers on stage

Head to Westerly tonight for some summer theater, where you can catch the story of two meddling fathers who try to get their children to become a couple in The Fantasticks.

The musical comedy starts at 8 p.m. at the Granite Theatre. Call (401) 596-2341.

Still casting around for something to do tonight and this weekend? Browse highlighted events on projo.com's Lifebeat page, and check out our calendar and movie listings.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:58 PM | Comment

Weather update: A weekend for the beach / Photo

projo.com photo / Andrea Panciera
Early-morning sun filtered by a light cloud cover made the dew on this spider's web sparkle at this Richmond home today.

The forecast for the weekend is hot and hazy.

So much so that for tomorrow, the National Weather Service has issued a heat alert between the hours on noon and 7 p.m. for southern New England.

Near-record heat is expected to spread over the region, with high temperatures climbing into the mid- and upper 90s across the Connecticut River valley, the Providence to Boston corridor and the Merrimack River valley of southern New Hampshire and northeast Massachusetts.

There is even a low probability that one or two locations in southern New England will hit 100 degrees tomorrow afternoon.

The advisory does not include the south coast of New England and the higher terrain, where slightly lower temperatures are expected.

Nevertheless, the weather service warns, the combination of high temperatures and high humidity will increase the chances of heat exhaustion and or heat stroke with any outdoor activities, especially in the advisory area.

So, it sure sounds like beach weather -- and there are plenty to choose from. As of today, 118 beaches around the state were open to swimming. For up-to-the-minute information on Rhode Island beach closures, call the Department of Health's beach closures hotline at (401) 222-2751.

To get the latest weather conditions and forecasts, go to projo.com's weather page.
For an Ocean State beach guide and map, plus more ideas on late-summer fun, visit projo.com's Summer Guide.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 6:53 PM | Comment

DOT to check 3 overpasses on Rte. 295 on weekend

Traffic may be pared down at times to one lane along parts of Route 295 in Cumberland and Lincoln this weekend while the state Department of Transportation inspects three overpasses.

State DOT spokeswoman Dana Nolfe said today that the department anticipates few, if any, delays during the work, which will happen from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

“We generally find that Route 295’s weekend capacity is less than weekdays,” said Nolfe. “We are not anticipating heavy delays.”

The work is being done to prevent a repeat of the Monday collapse that damaged three cars driving under the overpass at Exit 10. Department officials say a 20-foot long, 4-inch wide piece of “decorative,” as opposed to “structural,” concrete broke off from the overpass and fell into the highway during mid-afternoon traffic.

Three cars were damaged after they drove over chunks of concrete in the roadway, but no car was hit directly by the falling concrete and no one was hurt in the incident.

This weekend, state DOT inspectors will examine the Old River Road overpass in Lincoln and the Diamond Hill Road overpass in Cumberland -- the two overpasses immediately north and south of the Mendon Road overpass.

Both of the bridge spans were part of a 1965 contract that saw the construction of the Mendon Road overpass, said Nolfe.

The Route 146 overpass (at Exit 9 of Route 295) will also get an inspection, though it was not built under that construction contract.

“Since we were going to be in the same proximity, we thought we might as well look at it,” said Nolfe.

-- Journal staff writer Philip Marcelo

State DOT crews are tentatively scheduled to work on the northbound and southbound side of Diamond Hill Road overpass and the northbound side of Old River Road overpass on Saturday, she said.

Work will continue if needed on Sunday, and crews will continue on to the southbound side of Old River Road overpass and both sides of the Route 146 overpass.

Nolfe said the state DOT completed maintenance work at the Mendon Road overpass on Wednesday, removing more pieces of the decorative concrete in the area of the bridge near the grassy median (crews on Monday cleared loose concrete from the parts of the overpass that spanned the highway and determined that the overpass was structurally sound).

“The bridges are over 40 years old,” she said. “The decorative concrete has outlived its useful life. We are checking to see that other bridges of the same era and same location and that are experiencing the same impacts -- the weather changes and road salt -- are good.”

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:03 PM | Comment

Update: Drive-by shooting in Providence wounds two

PROVIDENCE -- A white minivan rolled down Bellevue Avenue in the West End, and someone in the vehicle flashed the peace sign to two men sitting on the front porch of a house.

A few minutes later, the minivan returned, and this time, a passenger began firing a gun. The two men on the porch were wounded but not seriously.

This incident, according to the police, occurred at about 11 p.m. yesterday at 66 Bellevue. Shot once in the leg was Saran Mam, 42, of 97 Wesleyan Ave., Elmwood, and shot once in the hand was Bunnara Nara Chao, 20, of 140 Bridgham St., in the West End.

All told, four to five shots were fired. Chao told the police that he knows the driver of the minivan as Shorty.

Maj. Stephen Campbell said detectives are aggressively investigating the incident.

In an unrelated shooting, the police Thursday night arrested a 16-year-old Smith Hill youth and charged him with conspiracy to commit felony assault. The charge stems from the shooting of Alexander Reigosa, 34, of 51 Wayne St., Smith Hill, who was shot Tuesday night after an argument with another youth behind a house on Chalkstone Avenue.

Campbell said the 16-year-old youth, who did not fire the round that struck Reigosa in the face, was ordered held at the Rhode Island Training School. Reigosa is recovering in the hospital.

-- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:50 PM | Comment

Cranston man nabbed; drugs, weapons seized

A Cranston man has been charged with possession of explosives, cocaine and a firearm.

Thomas Giannini, 49, of 446 Laurel Hill Ave., was arrested about 4 p.m. yesterday by members of the Rhode Island State Police/FBI High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, the state police said in a news release today.

Giannini is charged with possession of cocaine one ounce to one kilo, possession of cocaine with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm while in possession of a controlled substance, and possession of explosives.

Edward Gelsomino, age 46, of 85 Silver Spring Ave., East Providence was also arrested and charged with possession of cocaine.

The arrests came after the task team used a search warrant at Giannini’s Laurel Hill Avenue residence, the news release said. The raid followed a five-month investigation into Giannini’s alleged drug activities.

Seized from the home were 11 guns -- including rifles, semi-automatic weapons, revolvers and shotguns -- four ounces of cocaine, two hand grenade simulators and fireworks. Police said they also seized $2,837 in cash and a 2007 Cadillac CTS.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Giannini was arraigned by a justice of the peace at state police headquarters and ordered held without bail at the ACI Intake Center. He was slated for formal arraignment in Kent County District Court today.

Gelsomino was arraigned by a justice of the peace and released on $1,000 personal recognizance.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:47 PM | Comment

Security operation at Providence train station / Photo

Journal photo / Andrew Dickerman
Herman Kinds, of Mansfield, Mass., reads a paper while waiting for a train as federal TSA agents, Amtrak police and Providence police stand by in the Providence Amtrak Station today.

PROVIDENCE -- Federal Transportation Security Administration personnel, a police bomb squad, state police and others were carrying out a security operation at the train station today aimed at deterring terrorism or similar threats to a public transportation hub.

Known as a VIPR -- Visible Intermodal Protection and Response -- it falls under the security administration, which is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

There was "no credible threat" that had the personnel on scene today, said Joseph Salter, the region's federal security director with the TSA.

The exercise at the train station was one of several this year in different locations around the state.

Another was done earlier today at the Providence-to-Newport ferry station, and others have been conducted in such places as Point Judith, Salter said.

He said they are not simply drills, explaining that "the concept is basically to upset any thought anybody might have to come into a transportation venue" and threaten it and dissuade them from causing harm.

Messages were broadcast in the train station to let people know there there was no credible threat this afternoon. None of the people sitting or standing around the circular central area on the station's ground level seemed anxious. Many read books or magazines as they might any other day.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Others participating in the exercise were from the federal Air Marshal Service and behavioral detection officers from the Transportation Security Administration.

While there were many personnel in different uniforms carrying out their duties, Salter said such operations can also involve people who are in plain clothes.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:41 PM | Comment

Tiverton teachers' union seeks compulsory mediation

TIVERTON -- The union representing some 200 public school teachers here has requested compulsory mediation from the state Department of Labor and Training to force members of the School Committee to the bargaining table.

In the meantime, teachers plan to show up as scheduled for orientations on Monday and Tuesday and the first day of classes Wednesday, according to Patrick Crowley, deputy executive director of the National Education Association-Rhode Island, the state affiliate of the Tiverton Education Association.

Crowley said the pace of contract talks has been slowed by the fact that the School Committee’s chief negotiator, Schools Supt. William J. Rearick, does not have the authority to reach a tentative agreement.

Instead, Rearick must pass along the union’s proposals for a response from the School Committee, whose members have not participated in negotiations, Crowley said.

State law provides for compulsory mediation to resolve outstanding issues in any teachers’ contract which has not been renegotiated 10 days after the last day of school in the final year of the agreement.

In compulsory mediation, the Department of Labor and Training is “empowered to compel the attendance of all the parties to any and all meetings it deems necessary until the dispute is resolved,” according to department spokeswoman Laura Hart.

She said the mediation process will move forward but could offer no additional details today. The union request was received yesterday, Hart said.

-- Journal staff writer Gina Macris

Crowley, meanwhile, said that the union fully understands the fiscal restraints faced by the School Committee as a result of new property tax relief legislation and the legislature’s level-funding of state aid to local schools.

The union has proposed a shift from traditional health insurance that Crowley said would save the school district a significant amount of money, although he was not prepared today to release any figures.

He said the change would involve a high-deductible plan coupled with a health savings account.

The union hand-delivered its latest counterproposal last Tuesday night to Denise deMedeiros, president of the School Committee, and other committee members, while they were touring the newly-constructed Walter E. Ranger Elementary School on North Brayton Road, Crowley said.

An executive session of the School Committee has been scheduled for tomorrow morning to consider the union’s offer.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 4:15 PM | Comment

Traffic alert: Boat on Route 195 east causing backup

SOMERSET, Mass. -- If you're planning to head east on Route 195 through this community at this hour, expect a big traffic backup -- and a boat in the road that's causing it.

The state police said there's been a motor vehicle accident involving a vehicle that was towing the boat, which is now in the road. There were no injuries reported.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Jack Perry

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:10 PM | Comment

Update: 'Operation Hook a Crook' snags 28

Twenty-eight people have been indicted on cocaine, Oxycodone, marijuana and other drug charges after a five-month wiretap investigation called "Operation Hook a Crook" -- a title drawn from the last name of one of the accused.

A statewide grand jury handed up the indictments Wednesday naming the suspects on 63 counts, Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch's office announced this morning. The investigation, which concluded in February, was led by Cranston police and involved the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and police from Providence, Coventry, East Providence, Pawtucket, Warwick, and West Warwick.

The indictment follows arrests announced in February of 22 suspects, which has since grown to the 28.

The indictment details charges ranging from cocaine possession with intent to deliver, possession with intent to deliver such drugs as the painkillers Oxycodone and Hyrdrocodone, marijuana possession, marijuana distribution near a school, and criminal solicitation by one person of another to deliver cocaine.

Alleged to be the top dealers and suppliers are: Anthony L. Crook, 31, 17 Maxim St., Apt. #3, Cranston; Joseph E. Duhamel, 24, 94 Briggs St., Cranston; Alexandre Fidalgo, 33, 159 Indiana Ave., 3rd floor, Providence; and Miguel Ruiz, 33, 121 Whittier Ave., Providence.

Crook is charged with 16 counts, Duhamel with 20 counts, Fidalgo with 8 counts, and Ruiz with 10 counts.

In February, the police said the investigation began in September and that in December court permission allowed investigators to tap cell phones of alleged drug dealers. According to one estimate, authorities listened to more than 10,000 hours of conversations, monitored phone-sent text messages and wireless computer communications.

The authorities also showed a fleet of seized cars, trucks and motorcycles -- including a BMW, a Hummer and a Mercedes -- that the police said were seized through the investigation.

"This is what they do with their money -- buy fancy cars and other bling," Lynch, the attorney general, said in February. "Well, that bling bling is soon going to be replaced by the clang clang of prison bars around them."

All 28 defendants will be arraigned in Providence County Superior Court on Sept. 5.

Read the full news release here.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archive reports

The 24 others indicted on one or more of the charges are:

* Robert J. Benedetti, 34,108 Danielson Pike, Foster, charged with 3 counts.

* Michael Boghosian, 25, no address given, charged with 3 counts.

* Thomas Cardente, 19, 107 Earl St.,West Warwick, charged with 5 counts.

* Anthony V. Ciampanelli, 28, 185 Crescent Ave., Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* Tanya Colaluca, 26, 1735 Main St., West Warwick, charged with 6 counts.

* Janine Dansereau, 46, 91 Leading St., Johnston, charged with 3 counts.

* William J. Gaynor, 24, 86 Oak Hill Drive, Cranston, charged with 2 counts.

* Matthew Guerriero, 24, 33 Beacon St., Johnston, charged with 2 counts.

* Erika Key Middleton, also known as Erika Key, 28, with a last known address of 7 Jade Road, Coventry, charged with 1 count.

* Gary W. LaRoche, 50, 34 Forsythia Lane, Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* Joanne LaRoche, 48, 34 Forsythia Lane, Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* John A. MacAndrew, 28, of 465 Audubon St., Johnston, 1 count.

* Sean P. Mahoney, 35, 1216-A Main St., Coventry, charged with 1 count.

* Franco Marraffino, also known as Franco Marafino, 31, 349 Greenville Ave., charged with 1 count.

* Eugene R. Matera, 46, 102 Old Oak Road, Cranston, charged with 3 counts.

* Joseph J. Moreid, 36, 14 Greenview Road, Cranston, charged with 1 count

* Victor Otero, 28, charged with 1 count.

* Konstantinos Revis, 27, 203 Pleasant View Ave., Smithfield, charged with 1 count.

* Daniel A. Robles, 36, 14 Harriet St., Providence, charged with 4 counts.

* Frank J. Russo, 25, 152 Pippin Orchard Road, Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* David P. Scungio, 44, 330 Cherry Hill Road, 1st Floor, Johnston, charged with 1 count.

* Anthony M. Sivo, 22, 34 Vigilant St., Cranston, charged with 5 counts.

* May A. Tomassi, 41, 90 Oakside St., Warwick, charged with 2 counts.

* Matthew Zaccagnini, 30, 13 Elm St., North Providence, charged with 1 count.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:33 PM | Comment

Update: Attleboro officer on leave after shooting suspect

ATTLEBORO, Mass. -- A man shot in the arm by police after he allegedly tried to run them down in a stolen car remains at the Rhode Island Hospital emergency room this afternoon, and a police officer has been placed on leave.

Attleboro police have secured a warrant for the arrest of John Peters, 44, of Milford, Mass. Once he is released from the hospital, he is expected to be arrested and held by local authorities until he can be arraigned and returned to Massachusetts.

Peters faces charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a stolen vehicle, as well as a host of driving violations stemming from the incident early this morning.

Officer Gilbert Bechtel, 37, a nine-year veteran of the Attleboro police force with five years patrol experience was placed on paid leave during an investigation.

“Preliminary findings lead us to believe he did follow departmental procedure,” Lt. Scott Killough said.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson

Just before 12:30 this morning, police say Peters was speeding on West Street near Clifton Street.

Officers said they followed the vehicle and tried to stop it on Peck Street, when the driver drove at two cruisers.

The officers were not hit, and followed the vehicle, a 2007 Jeep Cherokee with stolen registration and plates, for about three miles, where it turned onto a dead end at East Street.

When the officer got out of his car to arrest the suspect, the car accelerated, turned around, and headed for the officer, who shot at the suspect, striking him once in the arm, the police said.

Peters' passenger, Joyce Sumpter, 45, also of Milford, was arraigned today on stolen vehicle charges. She was released on personal recognizance

Correction: Joyce Sumpter's name was spelled incorrectly in an earlier post.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 3:21 PM | Comment

An inferno of a rematch: Downtown roller derby

The Sakonnet River Roller Rats and the Mob Squad face off during a scrimmage a few years ago at the Bank of America Skating Center. Journal archive photo / Connie Grosch

PROVIDENCE -- In its second outdoor bout of the summer, Providence Roller Derby tonight will present Derby Inferno, pitting last year's local champions, the Old Money Honeys of Newport, against the Providence Mob Squad.

Last time these two teams met, the competition was fierce and a derby record was set when five overtime jams were needed to break a tie, according to the league Web site, providencerollerderby.com.

The league was established by Brown alumna Sarah "Doom" Kingan in 2004, who returned from a Tucson internship with a love of all things derby. Skaters trained for more than a year before two teams were created -- the Mob Squad and the Sakonnet River Roller Rats. The league has since added a third team, the Old Money Honeys, and an all-star travel team, the Rhode Island Riveters.

The roller derby leagues, at least 90 nationwide, are all female and mostly compete on flat tracks.

It all takes place tonight at the Bank of America Skating Center in Kennedy Plaza, downtown Providence.
Doors open at 7 and the inferno starts heating up at 8.

Check the schedule

Read the rosters

For more information, contact Anna WrecksYa at annawrecksya@gmail.com

Posted by maria caporizzo at 3:00 PM | Comment

Tests negative for West Nile, EEE

Tests results from more than 100 mosquito samples across the state are in -- all were negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

The Department of Environmental management -- which conducted the tests -- said that despite the negative tests results, both diseases are firmly established in the region.

People should take precautions, DEM said, such as removing anything in their yard that holds standing water, which mosquitoes are attracted to, using mosquito netting and bug repellent.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:59 PM | Comment

Former tax clerk pleads not guilty in grocery scam

NEWPORT — A former clerk in the Newport tax collector’s office and her husband both pleaded not guilty today in District Court to charges of shoplifting from a local supermarket.

Mary E. Zalewski, 55, of 34 Hall Ave., Middletown, and her husband, Donald, who works at Naval Station Newport, were each released on $1,000 personal recognizance on one count each of misdemeanor shoplifting.

The pair had been arrested Aug. 5 at Shaw’s Supermarket in Middletown after allegedly stealing $150 worth of groceries by misusing a self-checkout aisle, according to the police.

The Zalewskis are scheduled to appear next in court on Sept. 21 for a pre-trial conference.

Mary Zalewski, who had worked more than nine years as a clerk in the tax collector’s office, was reassigned by the city to another part of the Finance Department following her arrest.

— Meaghan Wims

Posted by Peter Phipps at 2:25 PM | Comment

Update: 4 teens killed in Conn. crash

BRISTOL, Conn. -- Four teens heading home after a night of swimming with friends were killed when their sports car crossed into oncoming traffic and struck another car late yesterday, the police said.

Three of the teens died at the scene. The 19-year-old driver died as medics rushed him to a nearby hospital, the police said today.

One of the three people in the other car also was critically injured.

-- Read the full Associated Press story

Posted by Jack Perry at 2:18 PM | Comment

Chairman of Mass. tribe seeking casino resigns

BOSTON -- The chairman of the tribe seeking to build a $1 billion casino in Massachusetts stepped down from his daily duties today after a published report revealed he was a convicted rapist and had lied to Congress about his military service during Vietnam.

Glenn Marshall, of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, issued a statement acknowledging he let misstatements about his service stand. The statement said nothing about the rape conviction. He said he was giving up day-to-day duties to "deal with the mental and physical issues I'm facing."

The Cape Cod Times, citing its own archives and court records, reported that Marshall was convicted in 1981 of raping a 22-year-old visitor to the Cape. Marshall was accused of sexually assaulting the woman in a secluded spot in West Barnstable after offering to drive her from a party to her sister's house.

-- Read the full Associated Press story.

Posted by Jack Perry at 2:14 PM | Comment

Fish and Wildlife Service searches Warwick home

WARWICK -- Details surrounding the mysterious search of a Warwick house yesterday remain murky today.

Federal agents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service spent close to 12 hours riffling through a Greenwood Avenue home confiscating dozens of items, most of them concealed in boxes and drawers, which were loaded into a storage truck.

A spokeswoman for U.S. Fish and Wildlife said agents were “serving a federal search warrant” on a federal investigation. She refused to give details about the nature of the search, citing a sealed warrant, and the need to "protect the integrity of the investigation," which is continuing.

-- Journal staff writer Cynthia Needham

The state Department of Environmental Management assisted in the effort, but spokeswoman Stephanie Powell declined to discuss the raid because it was a federal investigation.

The occupants of the house – said to be a couple -- were present at the time of the search, and neighbors said they stayed in their Greenwood Avenue home after the agents left last night. There is conflicting information about the exact street address.

By this morning, the local rumor mill was churning as neighbors speculated about what exactly had been removed from the ranch-style house and whether the presence of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife meant there were animals involved.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:52 PM | Comment

28 indicted on drug charges after 5-month probe

Twenty-eight people have been named in a massive indictment on cocaine, Oxycodone, marijuana and other drug charges after a five-month wiretap investigation called "Operation Hook a Crook."

The Statewide Grand Jury handed up the indictments Wednesday naming the suspects on 63 counts, Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch's office announced this morning. The investigation ended in February and was led by Cranston police. It also involved the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and police from Providence, Coventry, East Providence, Pawtucket, Warwick and West Warwick.

The accused will be arraigned in Providence County Superior Court on Sept. 5.

Details of the charges were not immediately available. Some of the accused face only a few of the wide range of drug charges while others face many counts.

Generally, the indictment details charges ranging from cocaine possession with intent to deliver, possess with intent to deliver such drugs as the painkillers Oxycodone and Hyrdrocodone, marijuana possession, marijuana distribution near a school, and criminal solicitation by one person of another to deliver cocaine.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

The accused on one or more of the charges are:

* Robert J. Benedetti, 34,108 Danielson Pike, Foster, charged with 3 counts.

* Michael Boghosian, 25, no address given, charged with 3 counts.

* Thomas Cardente, 19, 107 Earl St.,West Warwick, charged with 5 counts.

* Anthony V. Ciampanelli, 28, 185 Crescent Ave., Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* Tanya Colaluca, 26, 1735 Main St., West Warwick, charged with 6 counts.

* Anthony L. Crook, 31, 17 Maxim St., apt. #3, Cranston, charged with 16 counts.

* Janine Dansereau, 46, 91 Leading St., Johnston, charged with 3 counts.

* Joseph E. Duhamel, 24, 94 Briggs St., Apt., Cranston, charged with 20 counts.

* Alexandre Fidalgo, 33, 159 Indiana Ave., 3rd Floor, Providence, charged with 8 counts.

* William J. Gaynor, 24, 86 Oak Hill Drive, Cranston, charged with 2 counts.

* Matthew Guerriero, 24, 33 Beacon St., Johnston, charged with 2 counts.

* Erika Key Middleton, also known as Erika Key, 28, with a last known address of 7 Jade Road, Coventry, charged with 1 count.

* Gary W. LaRoche, 50, 34 Forsythia Lane, Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* Joanne LaRoche, 48, 34 Forsythia Lane, Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* John A. MacAndrew, 28, of 465 Audubon St., Johnston, 1 count.

* Sean P. Mahoney, 35, 1216-A Main St., Coventry, charged with 1 count.

* Franco Marraffino, also known as Franco Marafino, 31, 349 Greenville Ave., charged with 1 count.

* Eugene R. Matera, 46, 102 Old Oak Road, Cranston, charged with 3 counts.

* Joseph J. Moreid, 36, 14 Greenview Road, Cranston, charged with 1 count

* Victor Otero, 28, charged with 1 count.

* Konstantinos Revis, 27, 203 Pleasant View Ave., Smithfield, charged with 1 count.

* Daniel A. Robles, 36, 14 Harriet St., Providence, charged with 4 counts.

* Miguel A. Ruiz, 33, 121 Whittier Ave., Providence, charged with 10 counts.

* Frank J. Russo, 25, 152 Pippin Orchard Road, Cranston, charged with 1 count.

* David P. Scungio, 44, 330 Cherry Hill Road, 1st Floor, Johnston, charged with 1 count.

* Anthony M. Sivo, 22, 34 Vigilant St., Cranston, charged with 5 counts.

* May A. Tomassi, 41, 90 Oakside St., Warwick, charged with 2 counts.

* Matthew Zaccagnini, 30, 13 Elm St., North Providence, charged with 1 count.

Read the full press release with full details here.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:50 AM | Comment

Planned Parenthood to host rally for women Monday

Planned Parenthood Rhode Island will host a rally Monday at the State House to celebrate Women's Equality Day, a holiday that commemorates the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote 87 years ago.

From 4 to 7 p.m. on the back lawn of the State House, people can register to vote, and learn about the women's suffrage movement.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:12 AM | Comment

How would you like your $300 million?

It’s a question someone might have to think hard about if there is a winner in this weekend’s Powerball drawing.

If it’s hit, the $300 million prize will be the fourth largest in the game's history, and the winner will have to decide: $300 million paid in 30 installments over 29 years, or a lump sum, estimated to be about $140.3 million?

Decisions. Decisions.

It’s a tough one, to be sure, but the people at Powerball break down the differences between the two options on their FAQ Web site.

They also have some advice for the winner-to-be: deciding how to take the prize can be a complicated decision, but it is an important one that deserves your attention. See a financial adviser, tax expert, accountant -- someone who can help you make an informed decision.

And cross your fingers.

The drawing is tomorrow at 10:59 p.m. Check the winning numbers here.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:34 AM | Comment

Commendation for life-saving crews Monday

Fire Lt. Jeffrey T. Rayner knew the child was close to death as soon as he saw the boy limp in his aunt’s arms, his arms and legs flopping aimlessly.

But Rayner, firefighter Michael Cairone, and the rest of the team were quick thinkers, ensuring that Oandi Cruz survived his first birthday after nearly drowning in his bathtub.

The crew, along with a number of other Providence firefighters who responded to more than 16 emergency incidents will be commended Monday by Mayor David N. Cicilline and Fire Chief George Farrell.

The ceremony, at the Smith Arts Center at Providence College, will begin at 7 p.m

Read about the rescue in today's Providence Journal.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:36 AM | Comment

Attleboro police shoot suspect in arm

ATTLEBORO -- An Attleboro police officer shot a Massachusetts man in the arm this morning after a three- to four-mile chase during which, the police say, the man attempted to ram them with an allegedly stolen car.

Just before 12:30 this morning, an officer tried to stop a vehicle driven by John Peters, 44, of Milford, Mass., that was speeding on West Street near Clifton Street, according to the police.

Police officers followed the vehicle and tried to stop it on Peck Street, when the driver drove at two police cruisers, the police said.

The officers were not hit, and followed the vehicle, a 2007 Jeep Cherokee with stolen registration and plates, for about 3 miles, where it turned onto a dead end at East Street.

When the officer got out of his car to arrest the suspect, the car accelerated, turned around, and headed for the officer, who shot at the suspect, striking him once in the arm, the police said.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson

The police say the suspect drove into a tree.

Peters was taken to Rhode Island Hospital. According to the hospital, he is currently in holding in the emergency ward. The police say he’ll be returned to Massachusetts.

The police say a passenger, Joyce Supter, 45, also of Milford, was arrested and faces charges of possession of a stolen vehicle. The car had been stolen from a car lot in Maine.

Supter is scheduled for arraignment in Attleboro later today.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:28 AM | Comment

Doctor who killed husband wants to return to medicine

BROCKTON, Mass. -- A Cape Cod doctor who killed her husband after years of physical and mental abuse has asked the state to reinstate her medical license, saying that she is eager to return to her practice.

Prosecutors dropped a murder charge against Ann Gryboski last week, after a Barnstable County grand jury declined to indict her for the April 8 murder of her husband of more than 20 years, Patrick Lancaster.

Gryboski, a 51-year-old internist who worked in a Yarmouth practice, voluntarily surrendered her medical license after being charged with her husband's murder. Her attorney, Kevin Reddington, said they are working with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine to get her license back.

Read the full Associated Press story.

Posted by Jack Perry at 9:05 AM | Comment

4 teens dead after Connecticut crash

BRISTOL, Conn. -- Four teenagers were killed and three other people were injured in a two-car collision in Bristol, Conn., about 20 miles southeast of Hartford, late last night, the police said early today.

The crash occurred around 11:30 p.m. when one car crossed the center line of Route 6 near St. Joseph Cemetery and struck the other car, then hit a telephone pole, the police said.

The four teenagers died at the scene, Bristol police Lt. Thomas Grimaldi said. Their identities and home towns were not released early today.

-- The Associated Press

The three occupants of the other vehicle were taken to Waterbury Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital in Waterbury, the police said.

One person was treated and released, while one remained hospitalized in stable condition, Grimaldi said. The third person was reported to be in critical condition early today and required surgery at St. Mary's, the police said.

Officers have not determined whether alcohol may have been a factor, but they believe speed played a role, Grimaldi said.

Investigators were attempting early today to determine how fast the vehicles were traveling, where they were coming from, which one crossed the center line and other specifics, he said.

"Our biggest concerns right now are for the families of everybody involved in the accident and also getting any unanswered questions answered," Grimaldi said.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:51 AM | Comment

2 people shot in Providence

Two people were shot at 66 Bellevue Avenue, Providence, last night shortly after 11 p.m.

Police say the victims were taken to a local hospital with injuries that don't appear to be life-threatening.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:02 AM | Comment

Summer returns

Summer is back, sort of.

Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-80s today, according to the National Weather Service, but the skies should stay cloudy most of the day and night.

The expected low is 69 degrees.

Then tomorrow will be hot, hot, hot with a high of 93 and a heat index reaching 100 degrees.

For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features a photograph and update on the Route 195 relocation project, which should partially open by November.

Download a copy of today's front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 23, 2007

$1.25M settlement in suit alleging abuse by priest

PROVIDENCE -- A national group today announced a $1.25-million settlement of a lawsuit that alleged a teenage boy was sexually molested in Maryland and Washington, D.C., by a Roman Catholic priest who was later transferred to Providence to be a youth minister at St. Pius V Church.

No one has alleged that the Rev. Aaron J. Cote molested anyone in Providence, but the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests said Father Cote should never have been allowed to continue parish ministry, much less be placed in regular contact with youths.

“This is the type of behavior and actions that allowed the sexual abuse scandal to fester for decades,” the group’s president, Barbara Blaine, said during a news conference in the shadow of the Cathedral of SS. Peter & Paul, near diocesan headquarters.

“Our perpetrators were abusing people and church officials knew it and left them out there without warning parents,” Blaine said. “That’s why there were thousands and thousands of children abused, and what we see here is a continuation of that same old policy.”

Brandon Rains, who is now 20, filed the suit in 2005 against the order of Dominicans, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington and Father Cote. The suit alleged that in 2001 and 2002 Father Cote “engaged in unpermitted and harmful sexual conduct” with Rains, who was 14 and 15 in that time frame and was involved in the youth ministry at Mother Seton Church in Germantown, Md.

The suit says Rains reported the incidents to the police and church officials in 2003. But Father Cote was not charged criminally. In 2005, the police in Montgomery County, Md., told The Providence Journal that the case remained open but the investigation had been suspended pending further information.

In 2003, Dominican officials transferred Father Cote to St. Pius V Church, on Elmhurst Avenue. In 2005, the Providence Diocese suspended Father Coted when Rains filed the civil lawsuit in Washington, D.C.

Blaine said Father Cote is now living at a Dominican provincial house in Manhattan, and Rains is working in construction on the Gulf Coast, helping to rebuild the hurricane-damaged city.

-- Journal staff writer Edward Fitzpatrick

The Dominican provincial, the Rev. Dominic Izzo, also wrote to the diocese at the time about Father Cote’s “good character and reputation” and assured Bishop Mulvee that an allegation against Father Cote had “been closed as unfounded.”

Also, the diocese said, a background check conducted by the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office revealed no criminal background for Father Cote.

“Upon hearing of an allegation in November of 2005, officials on behalf of the Bishop of Providence immediately contacted the Dominican Provincial instructing that he be removed from public ministry and recalled to the Dominican Provincial house in New York,” the diocese stated. Father Cote was dismissed from the diocese and returned to the provincial house in New York shortly thereafter.

The statement concluded saying: “The diocese remains committed to the protection of children and young people as it has for many years.”

The Dominican Fathers and Brothers, Province of St. Joseph, based in New York City, issued a written statement confirming that it had entered into a settlement with Rains “regarding his allegations of sexual abuse by one of our brothers.”

“We are awaiting confirmation that this settlement has been accepted by the court and the suit has been dismissed with prejudice to the plaintiff,” the statement said. “It is our sincere hope that this settlement will be a source of healing and reconciliation for all involved in these allegations.”

The statement encouraged people with allegations to contact a victims assistance coordinator, Teresa Rodriguez, at (518) 573-8254.

Blaine said that while she knows of no allegations of Cote molesting youth in Rhode Island, most children are reluctant to talk about such incidents “until well into adulthood.” She said if any parishioners have information about abuse, “they should report that to the police, not the church.”

-- Journal staff writer Edward Fitzpatrick

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:18 PM | Comment

American Idol hopeful heading to Philly / Photo

Journal photo / Frieda Squires
Alexis Brown, 26, of Providence, recently won the regional American Idol audition and is now headed to Philadelphia, one of seven large-scale audition sites for the show.

PROVIDENCE -- A friendly send-off was held today for an American Idol contestant from Providence.

Alexis Brown is winner of this year's New England competition. She leaves for Philadelphia on Sunday to prepare for an audition before the hit show's judges.

The farewell party was hosted by Providence Mayor David Cicilline and Donald King, the executive artistic director of the Providence Black Repertory Company.

The event was held this afternoon at the Black Rep theater in downtown Providence.

-- The Associated Press and staff reports

Posted by Jack Perry at 6:45 PM | Comment

Donations sought for Peru earthquake victims

PROVIDENCE -- Hispanic leaders plan to hold a fundraiser next month to benefit victims of an earthquake in Peru that killed hundreds of people last week.

The fundraiser is scheduled for Sept. 8 at the Providence office of the Center for Hispanic Policy and Advocacy. It will take place between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

People are being encouraged to bring cash donations, food, blankets and linens.

The Latin Solidarity Committee, which helps people affected by disasters in Latino countries, announced the fundraiser at a press conference today.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:37 PM | Comment

Man gets 6 years in prison for meth possession

PROVIDENCE -- A Providence man today was sentenced to 15 years, with 6 to serve in prison, for possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine and for possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

Francisco Sanchez Torres, 23, with a last known address of 30 Hollis St., pleaded no contest to the charges in Providence County Superior Court, Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch's office said in a news release.

Torres was arrested on July 12 when the Providence police said they saw him on Congress Avenue holding a white plastic bag, and Torres fled into an apartment building. The authorities said Torres discarded the bag behind an abandoned refrigerator in the hallway. He was later arrested driving a stolen car, the news release says.

Police found about 6 ounces of crystal methamphetamine -- a potent stimulant also known as "crank" and "ice" -- in the bag.

“Although Rhode Island has largely been spared from the proliferation of meth manufacturing and abuse that has wreaked devastation and spiked crime in many sections of our country, we must, and do, recognize the presence of meth in our state,” Lynch said in the statement. “It’s incumbent on us to heighten public awareness, and especially the awareness of young people, about the extraordinarily harmful effects of methamphetamine.”

The news release noted that Lynch introduced a bill in the recent legislative session that would stiffen penalties on methamphetamine manufacturing and use.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Judge Daniel A. Procaccini sentenced Torres to 15 years, with 6 to serve and 9 suspended with probation, on the drug count and to 10 years, with 6 to serve and 4 suspended with probation, on the stolen-motor vehicle count. The sentences will run concurrently.

Torres had been held without bail as a probation violator since his arrest. He pleaded no contest to two counts of breaking and entering in January 2005 and got a 10-year sentence, with 18 months to serve and 8½ years suspended with probation.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:36 PM | Comment

Voyage to the Black Sea, without leaving Smithfield

Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Michael Deslauriers, a Smithfield High teacher, is dwarfed by the giant videoconferencing screen shown to educators today.

SMITHFIELD -- Teachers from districts throughout northern Rhode Island gathered at Smithfield High School library today to use high-tech equipment to confer with ocean explorer Robert Ballard, who is on a voyage of discovery to the bottom of the Black Sea.

Ballard was broadcasting from the Mystic Aquarium. Scientists were broadcasting live from the Black Sea.

The scientists are excavating the wrecks of two sunken ships from the Byzantine era.

Extra: You, too, can watch video reports live from the expedition, via the Mystic Aquarium's Web site, here.
-- With reports from Journal staff writer Philip Marcelo

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:35 PM | Comment

Sandwich-eating Providence man, 18, shot in leg

PROVIDENCE -- An 18-year-old city man who said he'd been sitting on a sidewalk eating a sandwich was shot in the leg before noon today.

The police went to 2 Carver Court, which is off Pleasant Street, for a report of shots fired.

James Goddard stated he was eating on the Pleasant Street sidewalk when he saw a navy blue or black car heading west on Pleasant, according to the police report. He said he started to run after seeing the car and, as he did, shots were fired at him.

Goddard's mother, Jeanne Wilson of Pawtucket, stated that she had just made a sandwich for her son when he ran back into the house saying, "Mom, I got shot in my leg," the police report says.

Detectives collected shell casings from the scene.

A witness recalled for the police hearing approximately eight shots fired and seeing a black car, possibly a Honda or Hyundai, driving off with a male in it.

Goddard was initially taken to Miriam Hospital. The injuries were apparently not life-threatening according to the police report, but his condition could not be immediately determined.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:48 PM | Comment

Projo launches new high school site, HSGameTime.com

HSGameTime.com, a new Web site dedicated to local high school sports, launched today on projo.com, the Web site of The Providence Journal.

HSGameTime.com will bring a new Web experience to the local southeastern New England high school sports scene with specific pages for every sport and every school.

HSGameTime.com's emphasis on interactivity allows athletes, coaches and fans the opportunity to blog, post photos and videos, create their own Web pages and form their own sports networks.

"This site will build interest and participation in high school sports in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts," said Thomas E. Heslin, managing editor for new media for The Providence Journal. "Its development reflects the importance we attach to this content, and our recognition that high school sports is central to the lives of an important local audience," added Heslin.

The site will track player and team stats, team scores, standings, schedules and rosters. Along with breaking news, up-to-date scores and game reports, HSGameTime also will feature the complete, enhanced content from the sports pages of The Providence Journal.

HSGameTime.com is a Belo Corp. initiative.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 4:19 PM | Comment

Report: A WaterFire draws Secret Service eyes

The Kansas City Star reports that WaterFire creator Barnaby Evans and volunteers were setting up a WaterFire Tuesday when they got a visit from the Secret Service, a canine unit and a bomb squad.

President Bush was coming to a nearby hotel, the paper reports.

The paper quotes Evans as saying the visitors were friendly and "just doing their job."

WaterFire has been a Providence nighttime fixture for years. The next one here is scheduled for Sept. 1, kicking off at the 7:20 p.m. sunset.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:37 PM | Comment

Burrillville gets $150,000 grant for 'rail-trail' land

BURRILLVILLE -- The town is getting a $150,000 grant toward the purchase of a 60-foot-wide former railroad bed for a project that would enable residents a way to walk and ride bikes between the villages of Harrisville and Pascoag.

The Department of Environmental Management grant, for the Harrisville-Pascoag rail trail project, was announced at 11 a.m. today at Levy Elementary School, the DEM said in a news release.

The plan is to revive an old railroad track in Burrillville not for trains, but as a trail for pedestrians, bikers or cross-country skiers. The idea is also for people to be able to quickly get to undeveloped open space around Duck Pond, which is south of the land in question.

The money is going toward the 8.6 acres that run between Mowry Road in Harrisville and East Street in Pascoag. A goal is for people to walk to and from each village center along a 6,200 foot-long path. A 12-foot-wide paved path is anticipated, with trees shielding it on each side.

"Burrillville has taken a number of steps to identify and protect its character-defining features. Restoration and revitalization of its villages is taking development pressure off farms and forests, capitalizing on its public investment in infrastraucture, and strengthening its local tax base," W. Michael Sullivan, the DEM director, said in a news release.

Nancy Binns, the Burrillville Town Council president, stated: "It affirms our ongoing commitment to a smart-growth comprehensive development plan and rehabilitation of village centers. Regulating growth and preserving green spaces are two major components of any town's continued vitality."

-- With Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:16 PM | Comment

Suspect arrested in Providence killing in May

PROVIDENCE -- Police have arrested a suspect in the May murder of 21-year-old Aneuris Caceres.

No additional details about the arrest of Kelbyn Ramirez were available. Deputy Chief Paul J. Kennedy says the police department will release more information later today.

Police say Ramirez, 26, of Providence, shot Caceres to death after an argument.

-- With reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:29 PM | Comment

Small businesses learn about health insurance plan

Small business owners, employees and insurance brokers – about 125 people in all – attended an informational session this morning at the Providence Marriott on new, low-cost health insurance plans for small businesses.

The plans will be offered to all Rhode Island-based business with 50 or fewer employees, for enrollment beginning Oct. 1.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Rhode Island and UnitedHealthcare of New England will each offer a version of the plan, dubbed HealthPact.

Each insurer will limit enrollment to 5,000 people. Those at the info session said they don’t know how high demand will be and urged employers to consider enrolling right away. Paperwork would be due in mid-September for Oct. 1 enrollment.

-- Journal Staff Writer Elizabeth Gudrais

The United plan will cost an average of $310 a month for individual coverage. An individual plan with Blue Cross will cost an average of $321 a month. Specific companies’ rates will vary from that average based on factors including the average age of the company’s work force. Officials said the insurers would use the same small-group rating system they currently used for small employers.

The relatively low premiums depend on employees to take steps to improve and maintain their own health, including regular checkups with a primary-care doctor, maintaining or working toward a healthy weight, and quitting smoking or refraining from smoking. People who do not comply with the plan requirements could be switched into a plan with higher out-of-pocket costs.

The General Assembly, in cooperation with the governor’s office, approved the framework for the new plans last year, and asked the insurers and the state Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner to work with representatives of small business and other community members to work out the plan details.

This morning’s information session was organized by the Cornerstone Group, a West Warwick-based benefits advisory firm that counts among its clients more than 700 small businesses based in Rhode Island.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:16 PM | Comment

Portsmouth session on big-box stores is tonight

PORTSMOUTH -- The brainstorming session to discuss the proper location of big box stores in town, involving municipal officials and the Aquidneck Island Planning Commission, will be held tonight at 6:30 at the Senior Center on Bristol Ferry Road.

It was incorrectly reported in today’s Journal and on projo.com that the session would be held tomorrow night.

The event grew out of the controversy over a recent proposal by the Target Corp. to build a 146,500-square-foot department store on West Main Road at Union Street.

Town Administrator Robert G. Driscoll said the workshop will be a “critical opportunity” for residents to voice opinions on “where the town should head, so everyone with an idea should definitely plan to be there.”

-- Journal staff writer C. Eugene Emery Jr.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:36 PM | Comment

1 of 2 suspects nabbed in Fall River man's murder

David Mello, a suspect in the murder of a Fall River man in what police described as a drug deal gone bad in Providence, has been arrested by the state police.

The police have not released any additional information about the arrest. Mello, 20, has a criminal history and has lived at several addresses in Providence.

Police said yesterday they are also looking for Sylvester Moses, 20, last known address 519A Dexter St., in the West End of Providence.

Authorities believe 20-year-old Marc Quintal came to Providence to buy drugs but was instead robbed, then fatally shot.

Police have not said which man -- Moses or Mello -- they believe pulled the trigger.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie Jefferson

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:12 PM | Comment

Textron agrees to fines in Iraq oil-for-food kickbacks

Providence-based Textron Inc. has agreed to pay a $1.15-million fine, acknowledging responsibility for several French subsidiaries' employees' making $600,000 in kickbacks to the Iraqi government in order to get contracts.

The U.S. Department of Justice has entered into the agreement with Textron, according to a news release today. It's part of the Justice Department's continuing probe into the United Nations oil-for-food program.

Subsidiary employees made "improper payment" to obtain contracts with Iraqi ministries to provide equipment, including industrial pumps and gears.

Between 2000 and 2003, three of Textron’s David Brown French subsidiaries in its fluid and power business unit paid a total of about $600,000 to the Iraqi government by inflating the price of contracts by 10 percent before submitting the contracts to the United Nations for approval.

"The subsidiaries concealed from the United Nations the fact that the price contained a kickback to the Iraqi government," the Department of Justice says.

The oil-for-food program aimed to allow Iraq to sell its oil for humanitarian purposes and required that oil-sale proceeds be deposited in a United Nations bank account and that those proceeds be used by Iraq only to buy United Nations-approved humanitarian goods and services, such as food and medicine.

In 2000, the Iraqi government started requiring companies wanting to sell humanitarian goods to government ministries to pay a kickback, "often mischaracterized as an after-sales services fee, in order to be granted a contract," the Justice Department said. The fee was usually 10 percent of the contract price.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Under the agreement, Textron is required to cooperate with the oil for food investigation. The Justice Department agreed not to file criminal charges against the company or subsidiaries given Textron’s "early discovery and reporting of the improper payments" and the company's thorough review of payments and discovery and review of improper payments made in other countries, including India, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. Also, the Justice Department says the company’s carried out "enhanced" compliance policies and procedures.

In a related matter filed earlier today, Textron agreed to pay about $3.5 million in penalties under a Securities and Exchange Commission civil injunctive action.

The Justice Department and FBI are investigating Textron and other humanitarian goods suppliers involved with oil for food.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:56 AM | Comment

Newport Grand to start on $20-million renovation

Newport Grand is looking to grow.

At a groundbreaking ceremony this afternoon, the 31-year-old business is expected to begin work on a $20-million investment that will transform its former jai alai fronton into two floors, housing an additional 835 slot machines.

The work is scheduled for completion next summer. When it's done, Newport Grand will offer more than 2,000 slot machines and simulcast wagering to tracks around the country.

Newport Grand pledged this investment, which officials say will create 200 additional jobs, in 2005 after entering into a long-term tax stabilization contract with the state.

All facilities should be up and running during the construction.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:38 AM | Comment

Could you be the winning ticket holder?

No one hit the $251.1 million jackpot in last night's Powerball drawing, but two Rhode Island players still came out on top.

The tickets, both purchased in Pawtucket, matched four of the six numbers drawn. One ticket is worth $10,000, the other worth $40,000. Neither of the winners has claimed their winning, according to a press release.

Check your numbers here.

After 16 drawings in this game, there has not been a winner. If someone wins the jackpot Saturday, the $300 million prize will be the 4th largest in the history of the Powerball.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:11 AM | Comment

Police dashboard redesigned for safety

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
The new dashboard is designed to provide police officers with more room and easier access to controls.

Police have a lot to do while they're in their car -- there's driving, of course, but then there's following a suspect; searching for an address; listening to the dispatcher.

All of this struck Jr. Neville Songwe, a former graduate student in industrial design at the Rhode Island School of Design, as unsafe, especially in the confined space of the modern police cruiser.

So he designed something that he thought was better. And today, the Providence police, along with Mayor David N. Cicilline, will unveil Songwe's design, the "Brijo" at the Public Safety Complex.

The department will begin road testing vehicles with the new dashboard design soon.

After he decided the police cruisers' cluttered dashes had to go, Songwe started his own business, Joneso Design, based in Central Falls.

He has shown off his designs -- which include large buttons, dashboard cameras and retractable keyboards -- to police chiefs from around the world at the International Association of Chief of Police conference in Boston.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:43 AM | Comment

Bryant ranks high in job placement

Bryant University students are in a good position to find work after graduation, according to the Princeton Review.

Its 2008 book, “Best 366 Colleges” ranks the Smithfield-based university’s Amica Center for Career Education number nine among college and university career and job placement services.

The center’s services help put “future executives … on a career fast track,” according to the book, which notes that 98.5 percent of the surveyed 2006 graduating class was employed or enrolled in a graduate program six months after commencement.

The school recently ranked 17th in the U. S. News & World Report for schools in the northern United States granting master's degrees.

The center, formerly the Office of Career Services, has more than 450 companies affiliated with its corporate recruitment program, according to director Judith Clare.

The Princeton Review's other top-10 schools for career services are University of Texas at Austin; University of Notre Dame; Pennsylvania State University-University Park; Clemson University, Sweet Briar College; Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology; Southwestern University; Smith College and Cornell University.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:34 AM | Comment

Fundraiser planned for Peru earthquake victims

PROVIDENCE -- Hispanic leaders plan to hold a fundraiser to help the victims of last week's deadly earthquake in Peru.

The disaster ravaged parts of the country and killed hundreds of people.

The Latin Solidarity Committee says it plans to announce details of the fundraiser at a press conference in Providence this afternoon.

The group -- which was formed to aid those affected by disasters in Latino countries -- says it expects Providence Mayor David Cicilline and other elected officials to attend the announcement

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 8:02 AM | Comment

Wrong-sided-surgery patient, 86, dies

Doctors are waiting for the results of an examination by a brain specialist before releasing a cause of death for the 86-year-old man who has died less than a month after a neurosurgeon performed surgery on the wrong side of his head, according to state Health Department spokeswoman Andrea Bagnall.

Bagnall says she believes the patient, whose name has not been released, died about five days ago.

The man went to the emergency room because of increasing lethargy three days after taking a fall.

Doctors discovered blood between his brain and skull on the left side, but "failed to make an accurate assessment of the correct location," according to the Health Department, and on July 31, operated on the wrong side.

Dr. J. Frederick Harrington, who performed the surgery, was suspended from the hospital and ordered not to perform surgery by the Health Department.

This was the third wrong-site surgery at Rhode Island Hospital in six years. The Health Department has ordered the hospital to hire an independent consultant to review and monitor neurosurgery practices.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:04 AM | Comment

The sun will be a stranger today

Don't expect too much sun today.

There may be some sprinkles this morning.

The National Weather Service is predicting cloudy skies with a high temperature near 74 degrees.

Tonight expect a low of 66 degrees, and patchy fog that may last into tomorrow when the temperature should rise to about 84 degrees.

For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features photographs and a story on the difficulty some Rhode Islanders have in getting to the supermarket, because there aren't any nearby.

Download a copy of today's front page in .pdf format.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 22, 2007

Still time to catch some art in Providence tonight

There's everything from politics to self-exploration and fulfillment in the artwork on display tonight at the new AS220 Project Space in Providence, as The Journal describes the work of South County artist Claudia Flynn.

The exhibit ends Saturday at the AS220 Project Space, 93 Mathewson St. Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 1 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Call (401) 831-9327.

For more of what's going on tonight and later this week, see projo.com's calendar listings -- already updated with the listings from The Journal's LIVE section, published on Thursdays.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:55 PM | Comment

Intoxicated driver in fatal 2001 crash denied parole

CRANSTON -- The state Parole Board refused today to release the intoxicated driver responsible for stealing a van and killing college student Brigid Kelly in a fatal car crash in South County six years ago.

The board found that it would be a disservice to the Kelly family to release Wayne P. Winslow, 55, formerly of Providence, after serving slightly more than five years of a 17-year sentence for ending Kelly’s life on Dec. 1, 2001.

"To parole Mr. Winslow would depreciate the seriousness of the offense’’ that led to Kelly’s death and injuries to a mother and two young children in another van that he struck, the board ruled.

Today was the first time Winslow had been eligible for parole. He had been sentenced in 25 years, 17 years to serve -- the longest sentence for driving under the influence in Rhode Island ever meted out at that time.

The decision to deny Winslow parole was unanimous among the three parole board members: Bennett Gallo, Victoria Almeida and Thomas A. Verdi. The board also ruled that Winslow will not be eligible for parole again until August 2012.

Chris Kelly, Brigid’s father, appeared before the parole board today and read an eight-page letter asking the board to keep Winslow behind bars. Kelly was pleased with the board's decision.

"I’m very, very happy with the outcome today,’’ he said. "As far as I’m concerned, (Winslow) can die in prison.’’

Kelly vowed to return to the Adult Correctional Institutions in five years to oppose Winslow’s release.

-- Journal staff writer W. Zachary Malinowski

Extra: Read Malinowski's report on how he gained access to 911 tapes to find out what happened in the last hours of Brigid Kelly's life.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:04 PM | Comment

Providence set to send off American Idol hopeful

PROVIDENCE -- Before Providence native and regional American Idol winner Alexis Brown goes before the sharp tongues of Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson to try to make it to the Idol finals, she'll get a warm city send-off tomorrow.

Brown heads to Philadelphia Sunday to get ready for an audition in front of the Idol judges early next week. She must clear that in order to make it to the finals in Los Angeles for the popular television show.

Brown won the New England Idol competition, and Mayor David N. Cicilline and Providence Black Repertory Company executive artistic director Donald W. King will host a send-off news conference at 1 p.m. at the Black Rep, 276 Westminster St.

Brown, a Classical High School graduate, "has been singing, dancing and acting most of her life," according to an afternoon news release from the mayor's office. She's also been involved in productions at Black Rep where her stepfather, Michael S. Van Leesten, is the board chairman.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:00 PM | Comment

In the heart of the big city, an afternoon dog rescue

PROVIDENCE -- Sometimes, even in the big city, where blazes or other calamities claim ownership of the rescue headlines, firefighters come to the aid of a dog.

It happened downtown this afternoon. Maybe you were out there watching or just saw the police cars and the Fire Department's special hazards truck, lights flashing, as you passed by in your car and wondered what was up.

A brown dog, breed not known, had apparently been swimming for some time in the Providence River.

The dog did several "laps" back and forth between the direction of the Providence Place mall and WaterPlace Park, and there was concern the dog was tired but had no way of getting onto land. One estimate was a 200-yard distance -- for just one lap.

That's where the police, animal control and firefighters came in around 4:30 p.m.

Firefighters Al Sousa and Chris Brown set out on the waters of WaterPlace Park in an inflatable gray raft, wending past the braziers that become ethereal lanterns on WaterFire nights but looked as cold as gray charcoal this afternoon.

The dog eluded them, as the firefighters followed a brown head around the water park. Finally, with one of the firefighters reaching over the front of the raft, making clapping motions with his hands, the dog was pulled in and brought ashore.

Pockets of people who'd been watching applauded.

Do firefighters get calls like this much?

"Occasionally," said Fire Department Lt. Tom Walden, as Sousa and Brown prepared to carry the raft back to the truck.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:59 PM | Comment

Police name 2nd suspect in Quintal murder / Photo

PROVIDENCE -- An arrest warrant has been obtained for a second suspect in connection with the murder of a 20-year-old Fall River man in South Providence last week.

The police said today the warrant is for Sylvester Moses, 20, with a last known address of 519A Dexter St., Providence. He is described as being 6 feet, 1 inch tall, black, weighing 200 pounds and having tattoos on both forearms.

Last Friday, the police named David Mello, a 20-year-old with a criminal history, tattoos on his eyelids and a tattoo on his neck that says "Loyalty," as a suspect in either shooting Quintal, or being an accomplice of the second suspect who may have pulled the trigger.

Police allege Quintal had come to Providence to buy drugs from Mello. As Quintal pulled into a driveway, police say Mello and another man tried to rob him at gunpoint, and he was shot.

Police described both suspects as armed and dangerous. Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to call police detectives at (401) 243-6406. All inquiries will be kept confidential, police said.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:24 PM | Comment

Gang member sentenced in triple Fall River shooting

FALL RIVER, Mass. -- Mafioso gang member Nigel Vaughn, 21, has been sentenced to serve 18 to 20 years in prison in connection with an April 2005 triple shooting at the former Larry's Sports Pub.

A jury had convicted him of three counts of mayhem, three counts of armed assault to murder and one count of unlawful possession of ammunition. All of his victims survived. A fourth person was grazed in the incident.

District Attorney Sam Sutter said Vaughn will be on probation for 10 years once he is released from state prison, and the sentence should "serve as a warning to drug dealers and gang members about the kinds of sentences we are going to be asking for when they use their illegal firearms."

Police said Vaughn had attacked four suspected rival crack cocaine dealers.

-- Journal staff writer C. Eugene Emery Jr.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:59 PM | Comment

PowerBall jackpot tonight weighs in at $245 million

The PowerBall jackpot tonight bulks up to $245 million -- if someone draws the magic number, it would be the sixth heftiest jackpot in PowerBall history.

A PowerBall news release says there have been 15 consecutive drawings with no winner and tonight is the 16th.

The $235 million would be paid in 30 installments over 29 years. But if the winner goes for the lump sum option, that payment is estimated at $114.7 million.

The drawing will be televised on Channel 12 WPRI tonight at 10:59 p.m. The winning numbers will also be available online at the PowerBall Web site.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:52 PM | Comment

5 more Providence police officers sworn in / Photo

Journal photo / Andrew Dickerman
One of the new officers, Christopher Kennedy, left, comes from a family with a long history of law enforcement. He is the nephew of Deputy Chief Paul Kennedy, at right.

PROVIDENCE -- Five new police officers were sworn in by Mayor David N. Cicilline and Police Chief Dean M. Esserman in a tradition-laden ceremony at the Public Safety Complex today.

Esserman told the recruits that they have entered a special fraternity, one that will change their lives in ways they can’t imagine.

“Today, you join the oldest police department in Rhode Islands and the second-oldest in the United States,” he told the five patrolmen. “You join that long, blue line that includes those who came before you and those who will come after you. Your job involves putting your life on the line. It is a noble job, a proud job. We welcome you and salute your families.”

The five recruits are the last graduates of the Police Department’s 64th training academy to join the department; 18 recruits were hired in January and six were appointed last month. As vacancies open, appointments are made to the $823-a-week jobs according to each graduate’s class rank.

The Providence Police Department, Cicilline said, has been “one of the city’s great success stories of the last five years.”

“For many visitors and newcomers to Rhode Island, you are their first contact,” Cicilline said. “You are the face of the city of Providence, the ambassadors of goodwill.”

-- Journal staff writer Linda Borg

Then, Esserman removed each man’s badge from a velvet display, attached it to his blue uniform shirt, exchanged salutes and shook his hand. The recruits saluted the mayor before resuming their place in line. As a crowd of some 50 visitors looked on, Kennedy asked each man to step forward while he read a brief biography of the officer’s educational and family background:

* Taylor Britto, 25, of Warwick, a graduate of Veterans Memorial High School, who earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice form Norwich University in 2004.

* Ludwig Castro, 30, of Providence, a graduate of Mount Pleasant High School who holds a bachelor's degree in aviation management from Bridgewater State College in 2005.

* Alberto DaCruz, 27, of Fall River, Mass., a graduate of Mount Hope High School in Bristol who has a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Rhode Island.

* Kennedy, 21, of Cranston, a graduate of Pilgrim High School in Warwick who has an associate's degree in law enforcement from the Community College of Rhode Island.

* Ivan Tavarez, 29, of Providence, a graduate of Central High School in Providence who attended Roger Williams University.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:47 PM | Comment

Providence man in serious condition after shooting

PROVIDENCE -- A 34-year-old city man was in serious condition today after being shot in the face last night.

Alexander Reigosa, of 51 Wayne St., was hospitalized at Rhode Island Hospital this afternoon.

At about 9 p.m. last night, police went to 49 Wayne St. for the report of a shooting and met with Reigosa, who said a Hispanic male shot him in the face, according to the police report. Police saw that Reigosa had an injury to his face's left side.

The police report said a witness stated there was an argument between an unknown suspect and Reigosa. The report said that the suspect, described as being in his teens, about 5 feet, 8 inches tall, and wearing a hoodie, pulled out a gun and shot Reigosa.

Police said they located a .22-caliber round in the driveway of nearby 442 Chalkstone Ave. and a spent .22-caliber casing at the rear porch.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:24 PM | Comment

URI ushers in 3 new dorms and a dining hall

The University of Rhode Island today dedicated a new dining hall and three new dormitories named after former Gov. J. Joseph Garrahy, retired Judge Alton Wiley and late university President Ted Eddy.

The university is opening its first new dining hall in 45 years. The original Hope Dining Hall, which was the oldest campus dining hall, closed in spring 2005, razed to make way for the new Hope Commons, according to a news release.

That's a 600-seat main dining hall and a 110-seat coffee/pizza/ice cream shop with a four-sided gas fireplace and a mini-market.

"The official opening of Hope Commons marks another momentous step in our efforts to create robust residential communities at the University," university President Robert L. Carothers said in a statement. "Indeed, students can gather here to eat, to study in groups, to enjoy a late-night snack while watching a big game or to meet with a professor in comfortable surroundings."

The 47,000-square-foot Hope Commons replaces the original Hope (10,600 square feet) and Roger Williams Dining Center (17,500 square feet).

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

The new dining area includes several choices.

There's Fusion, which has two salad bars offering 48 different items and cook-to-order Asian and pasta stations. Each station has choices such as beef, chicken, tofu and shrimp that are prepared in front of the student. On Saturdays and Sundays, the stations will offer cooked-to-order omelets all day.

Astro's Grill, which the university says is meant to evoke a1950s diner, has burgers, hot dogs, soy burgers, soy hot dogs, French fries and "humongous" onion rings.

Home Style has dishes "one might eat with his or her family:" meatloaf, roast chicken and turkey, macaroni and cheese, and swordfish among them.

Deli Creations includes grilled sandwiches, wraps and subs, and soups.

Roger Williams Dining Center closed in the spring, but the plan is to convert it to a student wellness center.

Butterfield Dining Hall, which is part of the freshman village, remains open.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:04 PM | Comment

Protest at State House over utilities-aid cut / Photo

Journal photo / Mary Murphy

Lela Coons, left, of the Warwick chapter of the Campaign to Eliminate Childhood Poverty, talks to Steve Kass, the Governor's representative, during a protest outside the Governor's office today. With her is Kathy Whipple of Central Falls, who has had problems with her electricity being shut off. Coons, Whipple and others were protesting because the state cut some $15 million that would have helped low-income and disabled people pay their utilities. The money was diverted to help close the state budget deficit.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:51 PM | Comment

ACLU backs system of juvenile hearing boards

BARRINGTON -- The Rhode Island affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union has asked the Barrington Town Council to reject Family Court Chief Judge Jeremiah S. Jeremiah's request to have all cases of underage alcohol and drug abuse sent directly to Family Court instead of the town's Juvenile Hearing Board.

The ACLU request is in a two-page letter to the council from Executive Director Steven Brown, who also happens to be a resident.

Brown said similar letters are being mailed out today to all police chiefs and municipalities that have local hearing boards that mete out punishment to young offenders who have, in effect, pled guilty to a misdemeanor.

Jeremiah, who made the request in response to underage drinking incidents in Barrington, has said he will ask the General Assembly to turn his request into law next year.

The Town Council will be weighing the issue at its next meeting, on Sept. 4.

Brown's letter does not raise Constitutional questions, just issues of policy and practicality.

It notes that the Juvenile Hearing Board system saves on the expense of hiring a lawyer and the long waits involved in having a case heard in Family Court, often during school. Hearing boards usually meet at night.

"Juvenile hearing boards have been established in communities across the state for a number of good reasons," said Brown, urging the Town Council to maintain its current system of allowing misdemeanor cases to be heard in town.

-- Journal staff writer C. Eugene Emery Jr.

Jeremiah's action came in the wake of the death of Barrington teenager Patrick Murphy, who was killed while skimboarding. The 17-year-old operator of the boat faces several charges, including reckless boating, death resulting; refusing to take a breath test; and underage possession of alcohol.

Hours after Murphy's memorial service, four teens were charged with underage drinking and the Barrington police broke up a house party with 35 to 40 teens.

After that, Jeremiah sent letters to police chiefs throughout the state, saying, "As of Aug. 1, 2007, I am respectfully requesting that all wayward alcohol and drug charges be referred to the Rhode Island Family Court instead of your local juvenile hearing board."

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 1:02 PM | Comment

Coast Guard derails fishing trip for drinking

The crew of a New Bedford fishing boat was allowed to re-board this morning, a day after the Coast Guard ordered the boat into port, because two crew members tested positive for alcohol consumption.

A Coast Guard team from the Woods Hole station boarded the Competition in Vineyard Sound at about 5:30 p.m. yesterday. The boat was escorted to Great Harbor in Woods Hole.

One crew member registered 0.15 on a breath alcohol test, the other 0.12, according to the Coast Guard. The legal alcohol limit for anyone aboard a fishing vessel is .04.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson

Commercial vessels are boarded “from time to time,” spokeswoman Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Downs. “We’re always on the lookout for people who are operating under unsafe conditions.”

This morning the New Bedford Marine Safety Office inspected the vessel for safety.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:25 PM | Comment

Court wants Mollicone to speed up restitution

PROVIDENCE -- The state's most notorious embezzler was back in Superior Court yesterday because a judge wants to speed up his restitution payments.

At the rate he's paying now, Joseph Mollicone Jr. needs 13,000 years to make good his debt to the court. He's paying $75 a month toward a $12 million restitution bill.

Mollicone was convicted of embezzling in 1993, sent to prison and ordered to make payments for his role in triggering a statewide banking crisis.

The former president of the Heritage Loan and Investment Company, Mollicone stole roughly $12 million from his own firm, a move that caused financial turmoil across the state after it came to light on New Year's Day in 1991.

Mollicone was also vice president of Rhode Island Share and Deposit Indemnity Corporation -- known as RISDIC --which was declared insolvent.

The resulting financial crisis closed 35 credit unions and 10 banks. Hundreds of thousands of Rhode Islanders couldn't access their money for more than a year.

In 1993, Mollicone was tried and convicted. He was sentenced to serve 30 years in prison, ordered to repay the $12 million and fined $420,000.

Mollicone was released from prison in 2002, but is on parole until 2023.

-- The Associated Press, with Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:45 AM | Comment

New trail to connect Harrisville and Pascoag

An old railroad track in Burrillville will again give residents a way to get back and forth between the Harrisville and Pascoag villages.

The rail is being revived not for trains, but for pedestrians, bikers or cross country skiers as a trail.

W. Michael Sullivan, the director of the Department of Environmental Management tomorrow will announce the awarding of a grant to help fund the Harrisville-Pascoag RailTrail project.

The design is based on smart-growth, and will allow access to undeveloped open space in the town.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:33 AM | Comment

Providence patrolman pleads not guilty in alleged rape

PROVIDENCE – At Patrolman Marcus Huffman's arraignment this morning, prosecutors said they found his semen on the boxer shorts of a teenage female that he is accused of raping.

The 13-year veteran of the police force pleaded not guilty to first-degree sexual assault in Superior Court this morning.

“I’m confident we will successfully refute the charges,” his lawyer, Raymond Angell, said.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Prosecutors say Huffman encountered the 19-year-old outside of Platforms Dance Club where a bouncer had denied her entrance because she seemed intoxicated.

Special Assistant Attorney General Erik B. Wallin said a video shows them entering the District Two police substation on Gordon Avenue together, and shows him exiting alone. She is seen leaving later, alone.

In what Wallin called “a cruel irony,” when the alleged victim went to a relative's home and called the police to report that she had been raped, Huffman was the responding officer.

Prosecutors asked for bail to be set at $30,000 with surety, however Judge Daniel A. Procaccini set it at $50,000 with surety.

Huffman faces first-degree sexual assault, which carries a minimum sentence 10 years in prison. (Correction: The initial version of this report described this as the maximum sentence.)

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:02 AM | Comment

India Point bridge work to close lanes on 195

PROVIDENCE -- Some lanes on Route 195 in Providence will be closed starting Sunday night for construction of the India Point Park Pedestrian Bridge, according to the state Department of Transportation.

Crews will be installing 24 concrete beams to carry the bridge over the highway.

On Sunday, Aug. 26, construction will begin between Gano Street and Exit 1 on the west side of the highway. One lane will be closed on each side of the highway starting at 8 p.m.

Starting at 11 p.m., crews will begin installing beams on the west side of the highway. Drivers will be shifted to the highway's east side with one lane traveling in each direction, according to the DOT.

Motorists looking for an alternate route can use the Henderson Bridge.

The work could be postponed because of bad weather. But as of now, crews are scheduled to work for two nights, Sunday and Monday, on the west side of the highway, then switch to the east side for Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 28 and Aug. 29.

Installation could continue for the night of Thursday, Aug. 30.

No work is scheduled for Labor Day weekend.

Five more weeks of construction will follow beginning Sept. 9.

All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 5:30 a.m.

Posted by Jack Perry at 10:29 AM | Comment

Coast Guard plans oil spill recovery exercise

NEWPORT -- The Newport-based Coast Guard cutter Juniper takes part in an oil spill recovery exercise today in Narragansett Bay.

The vessel will deploy an oil recovery system, which includes a containment boom, outrigger arm, inflatable storage device and floating oil-skimming device.

The equipment would be used by the Juniper in the event of maritime oil spill in Rhode Island's water.

Members of the Coast Guard's Atlantic Strike Team will also participate in this morning's exercise that will deploy from Naval Station Newport.

The Juniper's area of responsibility stretches from New Jersey to Cape Cod.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Jack Perry at 8:12 AM | Comment

City seeking proposals for after-school activities

PROVIDENCE -- The city is looking for proposals from community-based youth program providers to create an after-school learning activity program for high school students.

The proposal that wins would get a $100,000 grant from the city to start a multi-year effort to build a network of after-school programs around the city’s high schools, Mayor David Cicilline's office said in a news release.

The team would also need to identify and meet the needs of students going from eighth to ninth grade. And it would track student achievement through graduation from high school.

Written roposals must be submitted by Oct. 2 to: Garry Bliss, director of policy and legislative affairs, Providence City Hall, 25 Dorrance Street, Providence, RI 02903.

For more information, go to www.providenceri.com or call Bliss at 421-2489, extension 734.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:55 AM | Comment

Governor to sign bill okaying smaller school buses

BRISTOL -- Governor Carcieri today will ceremonially sign a school bus bill that his office said is "expected to result in thousands of dollars of savings for local school districts."

School districts will be allowed to use small-size buses, vans and SUVs to take students to and from school as of Sept. 1.

The signing is slated for noon at the Bristol-Warren Regional School Department Building, 151 State Street, Bristol.

The bill, H-6371, was sponsored by Rep. Douglas W. Gablinske, who represents Bristol and Warren, and co-sponsored by Rep. Roger A. Picard of Woonsocket.

Examples of the new buses will be at the ceremony.

According to records on the General Assembly Web site, the bill was officially signed into law on July 2.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:03 AM | Comment

More cool weather on tap

Relatively cool weather will continue today with the temperature expected to reach only 68 degrees in the Providence area, according to the National Weather Service.

It should be mostly cloudy today with wind from the east between 7 and 9 mph.

There's a slight chance of showers tonight after 9 p.m. The temperature should drop to about 57 degrees.

For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:02 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features a story about a ban on religious events at the State House that has been ignored for years.

Download a copy of today's front page in .pdf format.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 21, 2007

Photo: Beach blanket required

Journal photo / Frieda Squires
The weather wasn't perfect, but Kathy Powers, of North Dighton, Mass., brought her two children, Mitchell, 13, and Kelsey, 16, to Sachuset Beach in Middletown today, a Tuesday, her one day off. "We better go, at least we can sit on the beach and relax," Kathy said. But with temperatures in the 60s, Kelsey said, "We should have brought mittens." Tomorrow may not be much better, with cloudy skies and temperatures again predicted to be in the 60s.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 6:58 PM | Comment

A story before bed tonight for the young -- at heart

Would you like someone to tell you a story before you go to bed -- 30-year-old, 40-year-old, 65-year-old you?

"IDs Required: Storytelling and Fun for Grownups" is tonight at 7:30 at The Towers in Narragansett.

Bill Harley and Keith Munslow with Marty Ballou will be telling stories and performing tunes for grownups. Admission is $15; the address is 35 Ocean Drive. For more information, call (401) 782-2597 or go to www.thetowersri.com.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:47 PM | Comment

Blackstone River bridge, bikeway opening next week

A special ceremony next Tuesday will mark the opening of the Martin Street Bridge and the portion of the Blackstone River Bikeway that runs underneath it, the state Department of Transportation announced today.

The opening of the link between the Berkeley section of Cumberland and the Quinnville section of Lincoln comes after a 10-month delay and a $1.1-million cost overrun.

The completed project will provide suitable passage for tractor-trailers and emergency vehicles over the Blackstone River and allow pedestrians and cyclists to ride along the Blackstone River Bike Path via a passage underneath the bridge.

The new bridge replaces a more-than-100-year-old span that serves as a vital link between Route 122, or Mendon Road, in Cumberland, and Route 126, or Old River Road, in Lincoln.

The 10 a.m. ceremony will be held on the bikeway below the bridges. Speakers will include representatives from the state Department of Transportation, the state Department of Environmental Management, the Federal Highway Administration, the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission, and the state Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission.

The bridge and the bikeway will reopen to the public at the close of the ceremony.

-- Journal staff writer Philip Marcelo

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:40 PM | Comment

Cranston to Hollywood: A star on the Walk of Fame

Cranston, Newport and the Hollywood Walk of Fame are about to have something in common: Vin di Bona.

Di Bona, who introduced America's Funniest Home Videos in 1989, is slated to get the star in a ceremony Thursday, according to the list of upcoming Hollywood Walk ceremonies.

It will be the 2,346th star on the walk of fame. The ceremony will be at 1559 Vine St., Hollywood, at 11:30 a.m.

Di Bona, who grew up in Cranston and is a part-time resident of Newport, has won Emmy and Peabody awards. He has many credits to his name , including the cable program Sherman Oaks on Showtime.

-- projo.com staff and wire reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:17 PM | Comment

Update: Renaissance Hotel wraps up opening / Photo

Journal photo / Andrew Dickerman
Housekeeper Lori Marshall, of Providence, waves to friends from a gilded frame used in the grand opening ceremony for the Renaisssance Providence Hotel today.

PROVIDENCE -- The Renaissance Providence Hotel sure knows how to open ... and open ... and open.

It took more than 80 years, but the Masonic Temple finally got its ribbon ceremony today, as it officially opened as the Renaissance Providence Hotel.

Ground was broken on the building site in 1926. Financial mishaps and unfinished proposals kept the building mostly empty until 2004, when Denver-based Sage Hospitality began work on the 272-room hotel.

The hotel has actually renting rooms and holding events for more than a couple of months. And it had an "opening of the hotel doors" ceremony in early June, which was preceded by "soft" opening.

The proceeds from today's room rentals will be donated to the The VMA Arts and Cultural Center, the Rhode Island State House Restoration Society and the Music School of the Rhode Island Philarmonic.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 5:57 PM | Comment

Update: After concrete falls, other spans to get a look

CUMBERLAND -- After falling concrete from a Route 295 overpass damaged cars yesterday afternoon, the State Department of Transportation said today that engineers are currently looking at other bridges in the state’s inventory that may have the potential for similar problems.

Transportation officials said a 20-foot-long, 4-inch wide piece of concrete edging apparently broke off from the Mendon Road overpass and fell into the roadway.

The concrete damaged three northbound cars, forcing the partial closure of both sides of the interstate and all four lanes of Mendon Road that cross over the highway. (See a map of the area.) The closures caused traffic delays into the evening commute.

Baker said all loose concrete has been removed from the parts of the overpass that span the roadway, assuring that there is no danger to motorists. An inspection of the overpass late yesterday found it to be structurally sound.

The department is determining how many overpasses were built similar to the Mendon Road overpass, which is classified as a steel-stringer type bridge.

If deemed necessary, the department will send crews to the bridges, according to Joseph Baker, senior civil engineer for the department. Baker was unsure how many of the state’s 1, 014 bridges were built in this design.

“We have a few hundred different designs for overpasses,” he said. “Design selection is based on what is appropriate for a given area.”

State DOT maintenance crews were expected to return to the overpass tomorrow from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. in order to check areas of the bridge around the grass median, but not over the roadway.

State DOT spokeswoman Dana Nolfe said the department may close one lane on either side of the overpass, depending on what crews find. (All lanes of Route 295 were re-opened at 5:10 a.m. Tuesday).

-- Journal staff writer Philip Marcelo

“We don’t expect many more areas of concern,” said Baker.

Concrete edging from the Mendon Road overpass, located just before Exit 10 heading northbound on Route 295, fell sometime before 2 p.m. on Monday.

State and local police closed two northbound lanes on I-295 and the portion of Mendon Road (also known as Route 122) while state Department of Transportation workers removed loose concrete material from the underside of the overpass.

The cars were damaged after they drove over chunks of concrete in the roadway, but no car was hit directly by the falling concrete and no one was hurt in the incident, according to the state police. The operators were able to drive their vehicles off the roadway.

The concrete was not reinforced since it was not a structural component of the bridge, said Baker.

“It’s not typical of every overpass,” said Baker, who described the concrete as residue from when the deck of the bridge was poured.

The state DOT says there is likely no one cause for the crumbling concrete, but rather said a number of factors contributed to its deterioration.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:22 PM | Comment

State replaces Smart Staffing after reviewing bids

PROVIDENCE -- Smart Staffing is out of a job.

The temporary hiring firm that received an emergency no-bid contract last fall worth up to $11 million will be replaced by the New York company Adil Business Systems, Inc. in the coming weeks.

Foxboro-based Smart Staffing currently employs 276 people in state government -- dentists at the state prison, homeland security specialists, health data analysts -- and became the face of a contentious inquiry into Governor Carcieri’s use of contract employees last legislative session.

Smart Staffing’s contract expired July 1 and was extended 90 days while a committee reviewed bids from nine staffing firms, including Smart Staffing.

Adil edged Smart Staffing out by just a few points based on the committee scoring system, which was weighted heavily toward each company’s overhead rate. Smart Staffing currently charges the state 22.5 percent overhead, but had proposed dropping the rate to 19.75 percent in its bid.

Adil, which has come to a tentative three-year agreement with the state, will charge 16.7 percent, a number so low that government officials initially worried it may force the company into bankruptcy, like Smart Staffing’s predecessor Data Logic, according to Dan Majchercq, supervisor of fiscal services for the Department of Administration.

“We were all surprised that the rate came in as low as it did, but we’re comfortable that the new vendor can meet the requirements,” Majcher said.

-- Steve Peoples, Journal State House Bureau

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:39 PM | Comment

Rollover delaying traffic at Exit 9 on Rte. 95S

Drivers should expect delays if they are heading south on Route 95 near Exit 9, where there has been an accident, the state Transportation Management Center reported at 4:05 p.m.

The location is the exit for Route 4 south in East Greenwich. A vehicle is reported to have rolled over into the grass median.

It's not yet known if emergency vehicles have blocked any lanes. Check here for the status of the traffic incident.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:35 PM | Comment

Attorneys general fight 'misleading' drink ads

Rhode Island's Patrick C. Lynch is one of 29 attorneys general urging the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau to stop alcoholic energy drink-makers from running what the officials called misleading advertising.

In a letter to John Manfreda, the trade bureau administator, the attorneys general said energy drinks containing alcohol mimic non-alcoholic energy beverages that are popular with young people. And the officials say alcoholic energy drinks pose serious health and safety risks.

“Beverage companies are unconscionably and deliberately targeting young drinkers in touting their claims about the stimulating properties of alcoholic energy drinks,” Lynch said in the news release. “The advertising and marketing of these drinks -- with claims that the alcoholic energy beverages increase stamina or can have an energizing effect -- appeal to teenagers as well, heightening our level of concern.

Lynch's office states that medical researchers and public health professional say stimulants in alcoholic energy drinks "may cause an intoxicated person to falsely believe that he or she can continue to drink and function normally, even behind the wheel of a car."

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:27 PM | Comment

Lots of lottery players pick the lucky numbers

A lot of people have lucky numbers, and apparently, a lot of people have the same lucky number.

The lucky number? 1954.

On a single game, the Lottery typically brings in more revenue than it pays in prizes. Last night’s drawing paid out $198,000 -- nearly three-times as much as it brought in.

Jennafer Rampone, a lottery spokeswoman, says she can't say for sure how many people bought tickets, but total revenues were $68,345 and tickets cost either 50 cents or one dollar.

In the past year and a half, the machines have stopped accepting certain numbers because of their popularity twice. It didn't happen last night, but it happened in December 2006, when the lucky number was 12-26 ; and in May, when a winning player talked his family into buying dozens of tickets after, he said, the numbers came to him in a dream.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:54 PM | Comment

Crews will take another look at Cumberland bridge

Maintenance crews will return to the highway overpass in Cumberland where falling concrete damaged three cars and backed up the evening commute yesterday.

Officials had originally planned to do the inspection tonight at midnight, but will wait until tomorrow morning.

The department does not expect that any traffic lanes will be closed for the inspection.

Joseph Baker, a senior civil engineer with the state Department of Transportation, says a maintenance crew will return to the Mendon Road overpass of Interstate 295 to look at additional sections of the bridge that are not directly over the interstate. See a map of the area.

Officials are also looking at other bridges around the state that may have a similar problem – loose, non-structural concrete.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:46 PM | Comment

Ethics panel doesn't drop charges against Montalbano

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
Max Wistow, center, lawyer for Senate President Joseph Montalbano, said after the Ethic Commissions vote that he’ll seek a court order blocking the senate president’s prosecution before the commission.

PROVIDENCE -- The state Ethics Commission has refused to dismiss charges against Senate President Joseph Montalbano.

It rejected a request today from Montalbano's attorney to dismiss charges or to allow him a jury trial.

Montalbano is accused of violating state ethics rules by supporting a referendum for a casino in West Warwick at the same time he was doing legal work for the town. He failed to report that work on mandatory financial disclosure forms.

His attorney, Max Wistow, says he'll appeal the decision through the courts.

Wistow claims there was no conflict of interest. He says the state constitution allows General Assembly members to vote however they choose without fearing criminal prosecution or other penalties.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:38 PM | Comment

Carcieri appoints King executive counsel

Governor Carcieri has appointed a former candidate for lieutenant governor as his new executive counsel, the governor's office announced today.

Kernan "Kerry" King, of Saunderstown, replaces Andrew Hodgkin, who recently left his position, according to the governor's office. King will join the governor's office late next month.

King lost in the Republican primary for lieutenant governor last September.

King, a 1965 graduate of Providence College, spent most of his career, from 1969 to 1996, with New England Mutual Life Insurance Co., where he was the company’s general counsel for nine years, according to Carcieri's office. He eventually became president and director.

King earned his law degree from Boston University Law School in 1968. He also earned a legal master’s degree in taxation from the school in 1971.

Carcieri also announced that Claire Richards, who has served as his special counsel since 2003, will also be leaving state service.

Richards served former Governor Almond as executive counsel from 2001 to 2003 and as deputy executive counsel from 1995 to 2001.

Posted by Jack Perry at 12:01 PM | Comment

Providence ranked as likely tourism 'hot spot'

PROVIDENCE -- What do Providence; Almaty, Kazakhstan; and Newfoundland, Canada have in common?

The Wall Street Journal says they're contenders for the next "Hot Spot" in the world of tourism.

An interactive map says travel industry experts think Providence is poised to become a major tourist destination thanks to the city's varied restaurants and an art scene that visitors can explore by "gallery hopping."

Other destinations to watch out for, according to the article: Honduras; Montenegro; Rwanda; Seychelles; Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi; Sanya, Hainan Island, China; and Boracay, Phillipines.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:56 AM | Comment

Swansea police see increase in heroin, make arrest

SWANSEA —The police announced today that they apprehended a suspected drug dealer after a car and foot chase that resulted in the seizure of $10,000 in heroin and more than $100,000 from the man’s car.

The arrest of Matthew K. Langevin, 25, of 226 Swansom Road, followed a chase that took place Tuesday. The incident was the result of an investigation by local police and the Southcoast Anti-Crime Team (SCAT) into what the authorities described as an “increase in heroin sales and availability in the Swansea/Somerset/Rehoboth area.”

The investigation led the narcotics investigators to set up a sting last Tuesday. Around 5:15 p.m., an undercover officer purchased an undisclosed amount of heroin from Langevin, according to police. When officers attempted to take him into custody, he fled.

Det. Marc Haslam, Somerset Det. Tracy Costa and Sheriff’s Office Lt. Michael Nunes pursued Langevin down Route 6 and through a residential neighborhood off Maple Avenue, where he blew out a tire. Langevin jumped out of the car and ran. But the officers caught up to him and took him into custody.

A search of Langevin’s car led to the seizure of 2,442 bags of heroin, $110,000 in cash, a small amount of marijuana, suspected drug ledgers, and two double-edged knives, according to the police. The car and a cell phone were also seized.

Langevin was charged with trafficking in heroin, heroin possession, reckless driving, resisting arrest, possession of a dangerous weapon, using a motor vehicle during the commission of a felony, failure to stop for police and possession of marijuana. His bail was set at $5,000 cash at his arraignment.

-- By Richard Salit, Journal staff writer

Posted by Jack Perry at 10:18 AM | Comment

Accident on Route 6, Providence, slows commute

An accident on Route 6 Eastbound in Providence has put a snag in morning traffic. Check out the road conditions online on the Department of Transportation's traffic cameras.

Fire apparatus are at the scene.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:21 AM | Comment

Arguments today in Montalbano ethics case

PROVIDENCE -- The state Ethics Commission takes up its case against Senate President Joseph Montalbano this morning.

Montalbano's attorney is expected to ask the commission to dismiss charges against his client -- or grant his request for a jury trial.

Montalbano is accused of violating state ethics rules by supporting a referendum for a casino in West Warwick at the same time he was doing legal work for the town.

Montalbano's attorney, Max Wistow, says there was no conflict-of-interest. He also says the state constitution allows General Assembly members to vote however they choose without fearing criminal prosecution or other penalties.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:02 AM | Comment

Mild and cloudy

Mild and cloudy. That's what the National Weather Service is predicting for Providence today.

We'll see a high temperature of about 70 degrees and a low of 53. There's a 20 percent chance of rain.

More of the same is expected tomorrow.

For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's Providence Journal features a story reporting that charges were dropped against a drug suspect in U.S. District Court, because Providence police investigators withheld records of their investigation.

Download a copy of today's front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 20, 2007

Update: Overpass work under way after concrete falls

Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Pieces of concrete are scattered on the far-left lanes of Route 295 today after falling from the Mendon Road overpass.

CUMBERLAND -- A state transportation spokeswoman said concrete that fell this afternoon from the Mendon Road overpass that crosses Route 295 caused no "structural impact" to the bridge.

The concrete that fell was "purely decorative," said DOT spokeswoman Dana Nolfe. She described the falling concrete as a 20-foot-long, 3- to 4-inch wide piece that had apparently broken off from the edge of a support beam near the concrete haunches that hold up the overpass.

Three northbound cars were damaged after they drove over chunks of concrete in the roadway, but no car was hit directly by the falling concrete and no one was hurt in the incident, according to state police.

The falling pieces led officials to close two northbound lanes on I-295 between Exits 10 and 11. All four lanes of Mendon Road were closed.

The state Department of Transportation said an inspection of the overpass late today found it to be structurally sound and that crews were working into the night to remove any loose material from the structure.

The DOT hoped to reopen the lanes later today. Traffic on Mendon Road, also known as Route 122, was diverted from the overpass area while DOT crews inspect the structure. See a map of the area

DOT's Nolfe said the crumbling concrete could be attributed to the contraction and expansion of the concrete during the recent weather changes. Corrosion from road salt may also be a factor, she said. Department inspectors will have a better idea what may have caused the collapse in the coming days, said Nolfe.

The state DOT issued an alert for "emergency road work" at the location and noted throughout the afternoon and early evening that traffic was heavier than normal in the area.

Check here for status updates.

The falling concrete came weeks after a Minneapolis bridge collapse put national attention on bridge safety. That was a large span crossing water, and several people died as a result of its collapse.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson andf Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Philip Marcelo

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 6:43 PM | Comment

Paz, facing assault charge, proclaims innocence

WARWICK -- Former boxer Vinny Paz gave a statement to the media today, decrying the latest charges he faces and proclaiming his innocence.

Paz turned himself in to police last month and was charged with domestic simple assault and domestic disorderly conduct against his girlfriend, Ashley P. Spencer, 25, of Eliot, Maine. On July 27, police found Spencer, bloody-nosed and crying, on Cowesett Road, not far from Paz’s home at 54 Tivoli Court.

He is set to appear in Kent County Court for a Sept 10 trial.

Speaking via e-mail through his publicist, Nick Cordasco of Prince Marketing GroupNew Jersey, Paz expressed disdain for domestic violence.

“Domestic abuse, I don’t like it,” the statement said. “I am against it and I don’t do it. I never have and I never will ... This has been the worst month of my life because of this accusation. I am known for beating up world champion fighters, never women.”

Paz went on to state that he maintains friendships with all of his former girlfriends.

The a five-time boxing world champ has had run-ins with the law a few times in recent years.

-- Journal staff writer Talia Buford

Most recently, he pleaded no contest to a drunken-driving charge last month stemming from a February incident when he refused to take a chemical breath test when Warwick police found his yellow Jeep parked with its engine running at a gas station. He was asleep behind the wheel.

For his plea, Paz was sentenced to substance-abuse treatment and 60 hours of community service, and prosecutors dismissed the charge of refusing an alcohol test. Paz was also fined $600 and his driver’s license was revoked for 18 months.

The Cranston native and current Warwick resident changed his legal name from Vincent E. Pazienza to Vinny Paz four years ago. Paz has worked as a TV sports commentator and endorsed a number of products since his retirement from the boxing world in 2004. He is currently playing the lead role in the movie Thunder Doyle, which is being filmed in Rhode Island.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:22 PM | Comment

Report: Deaths involving drunk drivers in R.I. decline

The number of fatal motor vehicle crashes involving at least one drunk driver/motorcyle operator in Rhode Island dropped by nearly 15 percent last year from 2005, according to national data out today.

There were 34 such crashes in 2005 and 29 in 2006 in which at least one driver or operator had a blood alcohol account of 0.08 or above, the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration's annual assessment found.

Massachusetts saw a 7.4 percent drop. New Hampshire saw a 13 percent decrease. But Connecticut saw an 11.2 percent increase.

In another category -- crashes found to be "alcohol related'' -- Rhode Island's numbers dropped by 12.5 percent, the reports says, from 48 to 42. These crashes involved at least one driver, a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist with a blood alcohol content of 0.01 or above. (Those numbers include the fatal accidents in which at least one driver had at least a 0.08 blood alcohol content in the first category).

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:35 PM | Comment

8 school districts without contracts; no strikes loom

With Rhode Island schools scheduled to start opening next week, teacher unions in eight districts have not signed new contracts -- including Providence, the state’s largest district, with 26,000 students and 2,100 teachers.

Contracts in Burrillville, East Greenwich, Exeter-West Greenwich, New Shoreham, Providence and Tiverton are due to expire Aug. 31. Teacher contracts in Jamestown and the Ponaganset regional district shared by Foster and Glocester expired June 30.

The first day of school is as early as Aug. 28 in some districts and as late as Sept. 5 in others, including Providence.

So far, no district is threatening to strike. Representatives of the state’s two teacher unions, the National Education Association of Rhode Island and Rhode Island Federation of Teachers, say they think teachers will report to work as usual, even if a new contract is not in place by the time school starts, although they emphasized that decision is up to individual districts.

Union officials say Jamestown, New Shoreham and Tiverton have tentative agreements in place and are close to signing new contracts. Burrillville, East Greenwich and Ponaganset are in mediation.

The union in Exeter-West Greenwich is waiting for a mediator, said Robert A. Walsh Jr., executive director of NEARI, which represents the seven suburban districts with unsigned contracts.

-- Journal staff writer Jennifer D. Jordan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:33 PM | Comment

Union won't take to street on demonstrator's behalf

NORTH PROVIDENCE -- Town officials and union members agreed today that a rally on behalf of a protester hurt when she was taken into custody here by police will be held at the high school parking lot, and not as a street march.

Members of the Industrial Workers of the World met with the mayor and representatives of the police department this morning, more than a week after Alexandra Svoboda, 22, sustained a broken leg while being arrested.

Conflicting accounts of the incident have surfaced, as well as calls for investigations into the police's behavior. Svoboda remains hospitalized; she was listed in good condition today at Rhode Island Hospital.

IWW members initially said they would march down Mineral Spring Avenue again this Sunday -- and was calling in members from around the Northeast -- to bring attention to the Svoboda incident.

The group initially had said that it intended to defy the town and parade without a permit. But today, labor representative Mark Bray said, “An agreement has been reached between police, the town and the Industrial Workers of the World."

Instead of a march down the center of town, the group will hold a rally at the high school parking lot.

“We don’t need to have anyone encourage any further confrontation,” Mayor Charles Lombardi said.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson

Lombardi says he has seen flyers on the streets for counter-protests.

"We don’t need this at that time," he said. “The mere fact that there will not be a march… I want to say it’s a win-win for everyone.”

The confrontation with police occurred on Saturday, Aug. 11, on Mineral Spring Avenue as the group marched to protest against Jacky’s Galaxie restaurant, which the union said was doing business with a distributor that did not abide by fair labor practices.

The restaurant's owner, Kin Wah “Jacky” Ko, has since said he stopped doing business with the company after hearing the union's allegations.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 4:22 PM | Comment

Update: Charges dropped for 1 who alleged conspiracy

PROVIDENCE -- The U.S. Attorney's Office has dropped drug charges against one of the two men who alleged that the Providence police and their former defense lawyer, the brother of Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline, conspired to set them up and then make the case against them disappear for $200,000.

The decision to drop the charges against Khalid Mason came after police surveillance dating back to 2004 was discovered in the attic of the case's lead investigator, Sgt. Scott Partridge.

Partridge testified in July that he had little-to-no notes or recorded records of the investigation.

The finding “irreparably damaged the procedural aspects of this case,” U.S. Assistant Attorney Stephen Dambruch said this morning.

Last month, Mason testified that the Providence police had planted drugs in his apartment at 214 Pavilion Ave. in Providence. He also claimed that his former defense lawyer, John Cicilline, offered to have the charges dropped if Mason and Isom each paid him $100,000.

Co-defendant Derek W. Isom has pleaded guilty and is scheduled for sentencing next month.

Mason was set to go to trial today. The U.S. Attorney's Office filed a motion to dismiss charges last week. Isom, formerly of 85 Dunnell Ave, Pawtucket, has pleaded guilty to crack cocaine charges and was awaiting sentencing.

Mason, who testified at a hearing last month before U.S. District Judge William E. Smith, charged that Cicilline and his paralegal/interpreter, Lisa Torres, conspired to shake down the drug dealers.

Cicilline and Torres, subpoenaed to testify by Mason’s lawyer, Michael J. Connolly, of Boston, both took the stand last month and invoked their Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination in refusing to answer questions.

CORRECTION: The initial version of this report incorrectly said that charges had been dropped against both Mason and Isom.

-- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reporting from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith and archival reports.

Cicilline was indicted on federal charges in Boston in January, along with lawyer Joseph A. Bevilacqua Jr., of a similar scheme to collect $150,000 from two drug-dealer clients to manipulate the criminal-justice system. Juan A. Giraldo, a paralegal and interpreter for the two lawyers, was also charged.

Providence Police Chief Dean M. Esserman today said he agreed with the U.S. attorney's decision to drop the charges. He also said there would be an internal investigation – aided by the U.S. Attorney – of the conduct of Partridge.

When asked whether Partridge committed perjury when he said he did not have written records of the investigation, Esserman said he'd look into it.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:24 PM | Comment

Alert: Concrete falls onto Rt. 295 in Cumberland

CUMBERLAND -- State Police say concrete from an overpass has fallen into the northbound high-speed lane of Interstate 295.

Capt. James Swanberg says he believes some vehicles were hit by the concrete, which fell off the Mendon Road, or Route 122, overpass near Exit 10. He said he has not been informed of any injuries.

The state Department of Transportation has issued an alert for "emergency road work" at the location. Check here for status updates.

More to come ...

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:22 PM | Comment

Sunken sub giving military divers real-world training

PROVIDENCE -- For U.S. Army and Navy divers, it's not every day they work on the potential rescue of a Russian submarine. But in another only-in-Rhode-Island moment, they're getting that chance in the Providence River for the next two weeks.

Divers today are slated to continue underwater surveying of the former Soviet cruise missile submarine K-77 -- which had been reborn as a museum -- to figure out if it can be recovered and how from the river bottom, the organizers of the sub museum said in a news release.

The Juliett 484 sank during a storm on April 17. The underwater surveys were scheduled to begin yesterday and are slated to run through Sept. 4. The information they collect will be forwarded to engineers at Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) to determine how best to recover the ship.

Frank Lennon, the museum president, said in the statement that approximately 30 divers and an Army Landing Craft unit will be involved -- part of the Department of Defense's Innovative Readiness Training program.

Under the training program, the surveying here is a joint project of active-duty and reserve divers from the Army and Navy and, in this case, the landing craft. They get "training by taking part in real-world, community-based projects," the sub museum says.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

The landing craft unit is to serve as the diving platform for personnel at Collier Point Park, where the sub is located. The Army divers are coming from from Fort Eustis, Va., and the Navy divers are coming from Norfolk, Va.

The idea is to give the divers training that differs depending on the location and conditions in terms of underwater visibility and other factors, said Lt. Cmdr. Leslie Hull-Ryde, public affairs officers with Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, in an interview.

In Providence, Hull-Ryde said the divers will be tethered to an air source on the diving platform or land; they are not scuba divers in the sense of wearing tanks on their backs.

"Whenever possible, we want to simulate a realistic training environment," she said.

Such divers do find themselves called to all sorts of real-life situations. They've been working in Minneapolis at the site of the tragic bridge collapse. They've worked on a project to remove tires used in the creation of a reef off Florida.

"We get this training while at the same time helping to benefit a local community," said Hudd-Ryde. "So it's a win-win situation for everybody."

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:04 PM | Comment

Gas prices down for fifth week in a row

According to AAA Southern New England, we'll see cheaper prices at the pump for the fifth straight week.

The company's survey shows prices for regular, unleaded gasoline averaging $2.769 per gallon at the self-service pump. That's down five cents from last week and 19 cents from last month.

With the lowest gasoline prices since April 9 -- last year this time it was $3.049 -- the state is matching the national average, according to the AAA survey.

To compare national gas prices, AAA refers to the Oil Price Information Service. Its numbers, obtained by a different method, are available here.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:04 PM | Comment

Hurricane Dean heads for Grand Cayman

This NOAA satellite image taken today at 12:15 a.m. shows Hurricane Dean after passing south of Jamaica. Dean is expected to strengthen as it closes in on the Yucatan Peninsula. (AP PHOTO)

Grand Cayman residents are securing their homes on the small Caribbean Islands as they prepare for Hurricane Dean – a category four storm with sustained winds of 150 miles per hour – to arrive later this afternoon.

The westward moving storm is expected to gather speed before it hits the Yucatan Peninsula, a popular vacation destination spot in Mexico, tonight.

The storm’s impacts are reaching beyond the Caribbean.

Far beyond.

Astronauts on the space shuttle Endeavour had to pack up early after concerns from NASA officials that the winds might threaten mission control, located at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Track the storm, which is moving westward at about 21 miles per hour, and read the latest updates and warnings at the National Hurricane Center's Web site.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:39 AM | Comment

All state beaches open for business

Sure, the sun is hidden behind gray clouds and the National Weather Service is predicting a high temperature of just 68 degrees today, but every one of the state's beaches are open for business.

After follow-up testing, the state's Department of Health says the bacteria levels were once again safe at the Bristol, Barrington and Warren Town Beaches, as well as the Atlantic Beach Club beach in Middletown.

Warren Town Beach had been closed since August 9th. The others were closed on the 15th.

All four beaches were re-opened last week.

For more information, visit the state's beach closure page at www.ribeaches.gov
Or call the beach closure hot line at 401-222-2751.

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:33 AM | Comment

Is it really August?

Yes, it's still August, but temperatures are not expected to climb any higher than 68 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

In Providence, expect an overnight low of about 53 degrees. There's a slight chance of rain around 3 a.m.

Tomorrow's high temperature is also forecast to be on the chilly side of 70 degrees, and there's slightly higher chance of rain

Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:02 AM | Comment

Rhode Island Hospital "tops off" new building

PROVIDENCE -- Rhode Island Hospital is preparing to celebrate a milestone today in the construction of its latest expansion project.

One of the final pieces of steel for the hospital's newest buildings will be lowered into place after being signed by hospital staff, management and board members.

It's all part of a traditional ``topping off'' ceremony.

The new addition will offer more private rooms and new cardiac care and telemetry units.

It's the largest portion of a three phase project to increase the number of beds at the hospital while taking the oldest beds out of service.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:01 AM | Comment

Today's front page

Today's front page features photographs and a story about a farm in Matunuck run by members of the Carpenter family since the late 1800s.

Download a copy of today's front page.

Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment

August 17, 2007

Truck accident briefly shuts Rt. 95S lane at Exit 7

WEST WARWICK -- A truck struck a bridge in the areas of Exit 7 on Route 95 south this evening, causing a minor battery acid spill and closing the right lane in that area, the state Transportation Management Center reported at 6:08 p.m.

All lanes were reported back open by 7 p.m.

The tractor-trailer was hauling a fork truck, according to an initial report from the TMC on the incident.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:10 PM | Comment

Cumberland 10-year-old to appear on Jeopardy!

When Kids Week arrives this year on Jeopardy! -- and grown-ups' jaws drop as impossible questions are easily fielded by half-pints -- Rhode Island will be represented.

Eddie Kwiatkowski, 10, of Cumberland will be a contestant during the Kids Week, scheduled to air Oct. 8 through Oct. 12, according to a Jeopardy! news release today.

He is one of 15 child contestants, ages 10 to 12.

They are scheduled to be in Los Angeles next week and will tape five shows. The winner of each show keeps the cash he or she wins, with a minimum guarantee of $10,000.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:05 PM | Comment

New owner for the Capital Grille, Longhorn chains

MIAMI -- Darden Restaurants Inc., which operates the Olive Garden and Red Lobster restaurant chains, has agreed to buy the owner of the LongHorn Steakhouse and Capital Grille chains for about $1.19 billion.

Darden, the world's biggest casual dining operator, said it would buy all Rare Hospitality Inc.'s outstanding shares for $38.15 per share in a tender offer. The price is a 39 percent premium to Rare's closing price Thursday of $27.51. The deal value is based on 31.1 million shares outstanding.

Clarence Otis, Darden's chairman and chief executive, had hinted recently that the Orlando-based company might buy another chain to boost growth. It already has plans to aggressively expand Olive Garden, its Italian eatery, after failing to get its Smokey Bones barbecue concept to catch on.

Darden valued the deal at $1.4 billion, which includes outstanding debt and capital lease obligations.

Darden has 1,400 restaurants, with more than 600 Olive Gardens and 600 Red Lobsters. Atlanta-based Rare Hospitality has 317 restaurants, including 287 LongHorn Steakhouse restaurants, including one in Warwick, R.I., and 28 Capital Grille restaurants, including one in Providence, R.I.

"Rare Hospitality's two outstanding brands and the talented leadership and restaurant teams behind them enhance Darden's entire organization, but particularly our unit growth prospects," Otis said in a statement.

-- The Associated Press

Darden has stayed mostly steady despite tough times in dining, with high mortgage interest rates, skyrocketing gas prices and even increased competition from fast-food restaurants possibly crimping profits. For the fiscal year ended in June, Darden sales were up 4 percent to $5.57 billion.

Darden said savings will be created by supply chain and purchasing integration, increased advertising effectiveness and consolidation of corporate and restaurant support infrastructure.

"Darden has the right culture and the resources to help LongHorn and Capital Grille prosper in an intensely competitive industry," said Philip J. Hickey Jr., chairman and chief executive of Rare Hospitality.

Hickey will stay on for a year as an adviser to Otis, who will retain his titles.

Darden said it would finance the deal through cash, a new $1.2 billion senior interim credit facility and a $700 million senior revolving credit facility.

The restaurant operator said the acquisition would be neutral to its earnings in 2008, excluding one-time transaction and integration costs.

Darden and Rare's boards both have already approved the deal. The tender offer is expected to close in October.

In May, Darden closed nearly half its 129 Smokey Bones locations and put the other 73 on the sales block because stores weren't selling enough. It also owns Bahama Breeze, a Caribbean-themed restaurant and bar, and Seasons 52, an upscale dining experiment.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:20 PM | Comment

Jury: Shooting by Cranston officer legally justified

A grand jury has found the actions of a Cranston police officer, who shot an apparently suicidal man who lunged at him with a knife, were "lawful and legally justified."

A news release from Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch's office said the Providence County grand jury finished its investigation into facts and circumstances of eight-year Cranston Police veteran Jaime Cahill's June 14 shooting of Keith Olin and did not indict.

On that day, Jeremiah Rainville, 21, of Cranston called 911 at about 4:53 p.m. to report a possible suicide attempt by a friend, Olin, 44, also of Cranston, in Rainville's apartment at 28 Harris Ave., according to the police information in June.

Cahill wounded Olin when Olin lunged at him with a knife, according to a police report released in June.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:53 PM | Comment

Providence man sought in city's most recent murder

PROVIDENCE -- The police are seeking a 20-year-old Providence man with "loyalty" tattooed on his neck who is wanted in connection with the city's eighth homicide of the year.

The police announced this afternoon they obtained an arrest warrant for for David Mello, described as 5 feet, 8 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, with the neck tattoo and tattoos on his eyelids. The arrest warrant charges him with one count of murder.

"To Mr. Mello, I would recommend that you turn yourself in," Police Chief Dean Esserman said at a news conference in front of the public safety complex. The police said they had five known addresses for Mello.

The police stopped short of saying Mello was the shooter in the Wednesday night killing of Marc Quintal, 20, of Fall River, Mass., in South Providence.

The police are also looking for a second suspect, whom they have not identified, described as a 6-foot black male with a tattoo on his right arm.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

The police have said Quintal drove to South Providence with three other men in a silver Nissan Altima, looking to buy drugs, and parked in the driveway of a house at 255 Pearl St. at about 6:40 p.m. Wednesday.

The police said today that during the trip from Fall River to Providence, Quintal was in cell phone contact with Mello.

More than one person then approached the car in an attempted robbery, and Quintal was shot. Quintal managed to drive about a half-block to the parking lot of a Burger King on Broad Street, where the car stopped and a passenger ran into the restaurant and asked someone to call 911.

Quintal was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:24 PM | Comment

Great White to play club where 'Dimebag' Darrell died

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The rock band whose pyrotechnics ignited a deadly nightclub fire is scheduled to play an Ohio venue tonight that has its own troubled past.

Great White is booked to perform at Alrosa Villa, the Columbus nightclub where guitarist ``Dimebag'' Darrell Abbott and four others died in a 2004 shooting.

The fire on February 20, 2003, at The Station nightclub killed 100 people. It began when the band's pyrotechnics ignited flammable soundproofing foam inside the club.

Concert industry watchdog Paul Wertheimer of Los Angeles-based Crowd Management Strategies calls it ``a match made in hell.''

The club's manager says he realized the booking would raise eyebrows but was thinking of the fans.

Great White lead singer Jack Russell says his band will always be under a cloud but wants to keep moving on.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:34 PM | Comment

No signs in RI of skeeters with West Nile or Triple-E

We've cleared the muggiest month's halfway mark, and no mosquitoes in Rhode Island have tested positive for West Nile Virus or Eastern Equine Encephalitus.

Test results from 35 mosquito pools -- from 32 traps around the state -- during the week of Aug. 6 came back negative for West Nile and Triple-E, the state Department of Environmental Management said today. Results from two samples that were pending from the week of July 30 also came baclk negative.

But the DEM advises that people take precautions because "west Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitus are both firmly established throughout the state."

That means eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, namely standing water. Get rid od old tires, buckest, junk and debris, and clean gutters so they drain properly. Maintain swimming pools.

One cup of standing water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes, the DEM said.

The DEM notes that Triple-E has been detected in mosquito samples just over the line in Seekonk and Rehoboth.

For more information, go to www.dem.ri.gov and click on "public health updates" or go to www.health.ri.gov and click on "E" for Triple-E or "W" for West Nile.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:01 PM | Comment

Coast Guard cuts fishing boat's trip for safety rules

The Coast Guard today ended a 38-foot boat's fishing trip from Block Island to Montauk, N.Y. -- Long Island's eastern tip -- because it said the vessel failed to meet safety regulations.

In a news release, the Coast Guard said crew from its cutter Chinook, from New London, Conn., boarded the Karen Sue at about 11 a.m. and found the life raft had expired and that the three-man fishing crew aboard had just two survival suits aboard.

Federal regulations require commercial fishing vessels to have enough suits for every crewman aboard, the Coast Guard said.

The Chinook escorted the boat and crew to Montauk, where they were told not to get underway until violations were corrected.

"Our main concern is preservation of life," Ted Harrington, the First District Coast Guard chief of vessel compliance oversight, said in the statement. "If we find a fishing crew that is dangerously out of regulation, we're going take action to make sure they have what they need to be safe."

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:50 PM | Comment

Idol in Cranston: Hundreds with 1 dream / Photo

Journal photo / Kathy Borchers
Edith Ruelas, 22, of Dartmouth, Mass., sings her rendition of "I Will Always Love You" before the local judging panel today.

CRANSTON -- Hundreds of American Idol hopefuls gathered at Gibbs College this morning, vying for a free trip to a regional audition in Philadelphia on Aug. 27.

Contestants came from as far as California to sing before panels of local musicians, radio personalities and music producers.

Organizers plan to announce finalists at about 3 p.m., and a single winner will be chosen later in the afternoon.

Stephanie Lariviere, 16, of Cranston was one of a handful of singers who camped out last night. “We had a half hour of sleep,” she said.

The event is sponsored by WPRI Channel 12.

-- Journal staff writer David Scharfenberg

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:02 PM | Comment

Bird deaths in Barrington draw a $1,000 reward

BARRINGTON -- Defenders of Animals today said it would pay $1,000 to anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the people responsible for the bizarre deaths of at least 15 birds at a birdhouse on Humphreys Road.

Some type of spray adhesive was apparently used in the case, said Dennis Tabella, the organization's director. "After traces of residue were found around the birdhouse, there is no doubt that this was a deliberate and sick act by an individual (or individuals) that need to be identified," he said.

The remains of the birds were discovered Aug. 4 on the ground near the large cedar birdhouse, which can hold eight nests and resembles a UFO with spikes.

Owner Reed Caster said the clear substance, which never seems to dry, was apparently sprayed up into the roof of the birdhouse. It continues to coat the inside of the roof and the foliage beneath it. He said he hopes the Department of Environmental Management, which is investigating the case, can identify the substance.

"Apparently something was sprayed and some wings stuck together," said Tabella. "I know there are sprays to glue things down at photo and copying places, but this sounds like something really strange."

"It's terrific someone would put up a reward. That's great," Caster said. "It was such a stupid act."

-- Journal staff writer C. Eugene Emery Jr.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:00 PM | Comment

Update: 3 killed in Tiverton car crash ID'd / Photo

Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Roger Sartini, left, and his wife, Debbie, look over the scene where Kim Sartini, of Little Compton, died last night after an accident on Narrow Avenue. The couple's motorcycle is at right.

TIVERTON -- The police today identified the three people killed last night when the compact Volkswagen they were riding in left the roadway on rural Narrow Avenue and flipped onto its roof.

They are Michael Tripp, 23, of 262 Wilbur St., Fall River, Mass., and formerly of Tiverton; Kenneth P. Griffin, 18, of 301 Bulgarmarsh Road, Tiverton; and Kimberly Sartini, 18, of 21 EastView Drive, Little Compton, according to Police Chief Thomas Blakey.

According to the preliminary investigation, speed was a factor and no one was wearing seatbelts. Tripp is believed to have been the driver.

The police said the car had been heading west when it flipped onto its roof.

This morning, the father and stepmother of Kimberly Sartini embraced young people at the scene and surveyed the area.

Roger Sartini told press at the site that it looked to him as though the car -- a compact Volkswagen -- may have hit a large rock on the road, went into the air and came to rest in a field. Small trees appeared to have been damaged.

Another passenger, Cory Braz, 18, of 31 Bucks Way, Tiverton, was taken by rescue workers to Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River for non-life threatening injuries, Blakey said.

The four were described as friends, Blakey said.

The state police have been asked to reconstruct the accident.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal photographer Bob Thayer

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:59 AM | Comment

Quaker files for bankruptcy; liquidation is next

FALL RIVER -- The struggling Quaker Fabric Corp. has filed for bankruptcy, the company announced today.

After years as a major player in the region's upholstery and fabric sector, Quaker fired all 920 of its employees, including at least 62 Rhode Island residents, earlier this summer.

In a statement released this morning, Quaker said a bankruptcy judge will now oversee the sale of all of the company's equipment and real estate.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 11:50 AM | Comment

Could Harvard-Brown game move for Yom Kippur?

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- Harvard wants to reschedule a football game against Brown University next month because it conflicts with the start of Yom Kippur.

Harvard had scheduled the game against Brown for Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. The Jewish high holiday of repentance begins at sundown that day.

Harvard fans complained -- and the university has asked Brown to move the game to Sept. 22, after Yom Kippur ends.

Chris Humm, a spokesman for Brown football, says the program hasn't decided whether to honor the request.

Robert Scalise, Harvard's athletic director, says the Friday night game time was scheduled because Harvard believed it would draw the most freshmen to its newly illuminated stadium.

-- Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:48 AM | Comment

A Purple Heart for Guard lieutenant / Photo

All present applaud Lt. Robert Vaccaro after Maj. Gen. Robert Bray, left, pinned the Purple Heart on him at the Providence Armory this morning. In back are his parents, Richard and Sarah, and siblings Bethany, 22, Nathaniel, 10, Anna, 19, and John, 17, (in back). Journal photo / Kathy Borchers

PROVIDENCE -- Rhode Island Army National Guard Lt. Robert Vaccaro was awarded the Purple Heart in an early morning ceremony at the Providence Armory. The medal is awarded in recognition of wounds Vaccaro sustained while serving in Iraq earlier this year.

Vaccaro, 24, was critically wounded Jan. 14 in Baghdad while conducting route clearing operations. He has recently returned home after treatment in Maryland and Florida, and remains on active duty during his recovery.

Vacarro deployed with th 130th Engineering Company, Puerto Rico National Guard. He was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps when he graduated frmo the University of Rhode Island in 2005, when he joined the Guard and was assigned to the 861st Engineering Company, which had recently returned from Iraq. Upon completing the U.S. Army Basic Officer Engineering course, he volunteered to deploy with the 130th Engineering Company, Puerto Rico, according to a news release from the Rhode Island National Guard.

"We are thrilled to have Lt. Vaccaro back with us here in Rhode Island today. His actions in Iraq on the day he was injured speak to the incredible level of dedication to duty which he displayed," said Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, adjutant general of Rhode Island and commanding general of the Rhode Island National Guard, in the news release.

Posted by maria caporizzo at 9:50 AM | Comment

Download today's front page

The crisis at DCYF and a rogue slot machine at Twin River lead today's Journal.
Download file

Posted by Peter Phipps at 8:49 AM | Comment

Marine forecast: No time for the queasy

There's a small-craft advisory for the Massachusetts and Rhode Island coast through tonight.

The National Weather Service warns boaters that both the seas and the winds will be uncomfortably high today and tomorrow. And if a thunderstorm develops, things could get really dangerous.

The weather service expects conditions to moderate by Sunday.

But for today and tonight, the forecast is for 3 to 5 foot seas with wind gusts tonight of 20 kts. That's not a forecast for the weak of stomach.

Those 5-foot swells should still be around Saturday before calming on Sunday to 2 to 3 feet by the end of the weekend.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:55 AM | Comment

Just one more day of this; the weekend looks great

Brace yourself for another hot and muggy day. There might even be some rain and even a thunderstorm this afternoon. The National Weather Service puts the chances at 40 percent.

But then the cold front that is stalled over the coast will move out, and dry, cool and clear weather will move in for the weekend.

Tomorrow and Sunday, the weather service says it will be clear with highs in the mid 70s.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:52 AM | Comment

Why the new highway crisscrosses

All lanes of Route 95 south between exits 18 to 20 and the Route 195 connector ramp to Route 95 south reopened this morning between 4:15 to 4:30.

The work soars overhead Route 95 just east of Rhode Island hospital. The giant turquoise steel structure of the new highway can now be traced connecting Route 195 to Route 95.

And because the infamous high-speed merges are being eliminated, the lanes have to cross overhead.

So, for the work going on now, the connection between Route 95 south and Route 195 east has to cross over 95 and crossover the connector to the new 195 bridge to get to the southern most eastbound lanes.

Think about it. That's the safe way. But it would have been much easier to connect to the high-speed lanes.

-- Peter Phipps, projo.com

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:41 AM | Comment

August 16, 2007

The King, 30 years gone, may have had one wish

Sure there are Elvis look-alikes and -- sort of -- sound-alikes, but perhaps on this, the 30th anniversary of the King's passing, he would have simply liked us all to go out tonight for some tunes. (And enjoy a peanut butter and banana sandwich -- said to be one of his favorites).

Here are some acts playing in the region tonight:

Steve Anthony and Persuasion, pop, 20 Water Street, 20 Water St., East Greenwich. 885-3700. 8:30 pm-12:30 am.

The Automatics, rhythm and blues, American Legion Post 10, 830 Willett Ave., Riverside. 433-9859. 9 pm.

Matty B. & Joe, pop, Club Royale at Newport Grand, Admiral Kalbfus Boulevard, Newport. 849-5000. 9 pm.

Black & White featuring Ted Stevens, rhythm and blues, Rusty's, 44B Wave Ave., Middletown. 846-8141. 9 pm.

Chris Botti, pop, Cape Cod Melody Tent, 21 West Main St., Hyannis, Mass. (508) 775-5630, www.melodytent.org. 8 pm. $37.25, $51.25.

Brass Force, pop, Bovi's Town Tavern, 287 Taunton Ave., East Providence. 434-9670. 9 pm-1 am.

The Complaints, rock, Olives, 108 North Main St., Providence. 751-1200. 10 pm-2 am. $5.

The Coppola Sisters, pop, Cher's Restaurant, 86 Waterman Ave., North Providence. 231-6209. 9 pm.

Cruise Control, rhythm and blues, The Room at Waterstreet Cafe, 36 Water St., Fall River. (508) 672-8748, www.waterstreetcafe.com. 9 pm.

For the full array, check out the Journal's club listings.

And note this:

Rhode Island has a stronger connection to Elvis than just a group of bands trying to find that magic on the road. Jeanne LeMay Dumas, a former secretary of the King's, now lives in Coventry. You can read about her -- she's gone to Graceland this week.

For those who choose to stay in, you can remember the King by learning more about him here.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:05 PM | Comment

DCYF director: R.I. needs 50 more social workers

PROVIDENCE -- Rhode Island must hire almost 50 social workers at the state's foster care agency to meet national guidelines. That's according to testimony today from Patricia Martinez, the director of the Department of Children, Youth and Families.

She spoke before a state Senate committee investigating how DCYF handles children in foster care. A federal civil rights lawsuit filed this summer alleges that the agency failed to stop the abuse and neglect of some children in its care.

The lawsuit by the state's child advocate alleges that DCYF social workers are overwhelmed -- especially in its Providence office.

A national advocacy group recommends a standard of 14 families per caseworker. Martinez says achieving that goal would require hiring 44 social workers and four more supervisors.

Fifteen new social workers are starting the job in September.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:39 PM | Comment

Union won't picket, restaurant stops using supplier

PROVIDENCE -- The Industrial Workers of the World, which waged a demonstration Saturday outside the North Providence Jacky's Galaxie restaurant, said in Superior Court today it will no longer picket the state's five Jacky's Galaxies.

And the owner of the North Providence restaurant, Kin “Jacky” Ko, assured in court that he is no longer using Dragon Land Trading, a New York restaurant supplier that spawned the labor union's protest. The organization has accused the restaurant of buying supplies from Dragon Land and that Dragon Land has violated labor laws.

Saturday's demonstration led to an apparent scuffle with police. A 22-year-old woman involved in the protest suffered serious leg injuries.

The IWW's Providence chapter had said it would demonstrate outside state Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch's office today if he did not respond to "demands" they had listed. But Lynch did respond, so the group held a news conference outside the attorney general's building instead.

Lynch, through a spokesman yesterday, called on North Providence police to turn over the results of any investigation into the injuries suffered by the demonstrator, Alexandra Svoboda, so his office can conduct a review. He said the state police will assist in the review.

Top North Providence police officials have denied police brutality, and Major Joseph Lombardi said in today's Journal
he had become more convinced the demonstrators staged the march to "lure police into a confrontation" to call attention to themselves.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Richard C. Dujardin

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:36 PM | Comment

Governor appeals ruling he must testify about raid

Governor Carcieri this afternoon filed an appeal of a judge's ruling that he must testify at the trial of seven Narragansett Indian tribal members who were arrested during a state police raid on a tribal smoke shop in 2003.

The appeal, which had been anticipated, was filed at about 3 p.m. with the state Supreme Court.

Earlier this month, Judge Susan E. McGuirl ruled in Providence County Superior Court Friday that the defendants’ rights to put on a defense and cross-examine witnesses outweighed the governor’s claim of executive privilege.

Extra: More about the raid and its aftermath ...

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:58 PM | Comment

Update: Bristol veterans home chief put on leave

BRISTOL -- The administrator of the Rhode Island Veterans Home has been placed on administrative leave, with pay, while the state carries out a review of management issues at the Bristol facility.

David Kirchner, who has been administrator since July 1998 and is paid an annual salary of $93,592, was placed on leave yesterday, according to a spokeswoman for the state Department of Human Services, which oversees the operation of the nursing home.

Charles Ramos, who has been an assistant administrator at the home for many years, has taken on Kirchner’s duties on an interim basis. Ramos is a licensed nursing home administrator.

The move follows the public release last month from a special legislative commission studying the home of an interim report that criticized some aspects of its management and operation.

The commission, convened by the House Veterans Affairs Committee, found signs of problems in the nursing system, low morale among staff members, antagonism toward residents or their families who complain or challenge established procedures, and abuse of policies concerning the authorized release of information to families.

-- Journal staff writer Alex Kuffner

The 11-page report, dated July 6, included allegations that the president of the home’s Residents Council had been ordered to take 35 mental competency evaluations in a seven-year period because of his advocacy for residents’ rights and his frequent disagreements with home administrators.

It also reported that members of at least two families who had frequently disagreed with resident care had, on separate occasions, been threatened with arrest by home administrators.

In its report, the five-member special commission chaired by state mental health advocate H. Reed Cosper cautioned that it had not confirmed the accusations.

The commission is set to write a second interim report before issuing its final report in January.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:17 PM | Comment

Parole denied for drunk driver in fatal 2003 crash

PAWTUCKET -- The drunk driver who caused the accident that killed community-minded businessman Joseph T. McHale four years ago has been denied parole.

The decision came after an emotional hearing at which McHale’s wife, son and daughter described the devastating effect that McHale’s death has had on them and implored the Parole Board to keep Dean M. Martin behind bars.

“I hope that he will be made to complete his sentence because he imposed on my son, daughter and me a life sentence,” Rose McHale, 64, said during yesterday's hearing.

The accident that took her husband’s robbed her of a longtime companion, Mrs. McHale said. “I will never be the same and the depth of that loss is immeasurable,” she said.

McHale, who lived in Seekonk, Mass., was chief executive officer and co-owner of John J. McHale and Sons, Inc., and PRM Concrete Corp. of Pawtucket. He was 59, a businessman active on local boards and commissions, when he died of the injuries he suffered in the June 24, 2003, crash.

The Parole Board decision was made public today, 24 hours after Parole Board members met with the McHales, then talked to Martin in prison.

-- Journal staff writer John Castellucci

Martin, a 45-year-old Pawtucket man who was a mason at the time of the accident, won’t be eligible for parole again until August 2009, Parole Board spokeswoman said.

He is serving a nine-year sentence at the Adult Correctional Institutions as a result of his conviction on charges of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, death resulting, and reckless driving, death resulting.

Assistant Attorney General Jay Sullivan said Martin had methadone in his bloodstream, plus twice the legal limit for alcohol, when his car, traveling at 65 mph, rear-ended the McHales’ car in a construction zone near the Pawtucket ‘S’ curve on Route 95.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:07 PM | Comment

Update: GTECH pays out $450,000 for slot error

GTECH has reimbursed the state for more than $450,000 that a video lottery terminal at the Twin River gambling parlor paid out in error over a seven-week period earlier this summer.

The state is entitled to a share of the video slot-machine gambling revenues at Twin River.

GTECHis conducting an investigation to determine how the error occurred and whether the company might recover any of that money, a spokesman for the lottery giant, Bob Vincent, said today.

The machine was accepting patrons’ money and immediately doubling the amount inserted -- for example, allowing patrons to redeem a $40 credit if they inserted $20 -- up to a maximum of $100 credit for $50 inserted, Vincent said.

Although the investigation is ongoing, Vincent said it appears the machine was equipped with a feature that allowed gambling facilities to double patrons’ money on purpose as part of a promotion, and that the option may have been turned on by mistake when the machine was installed May 25.

Vincent said the machine was removed from the Lincoln gambling facility on July 15 after GTECH noticed the machine’s payout-to-play ratio was higher than it should have been.

Vincent said the machines are monitored continuously, but malfunctions may still go unnoticed for a period of weeks because a large payout can also temporarily drive a machine’s ratio much higher than the average. A ratio that stays elevated, rather than returning to average, would indicate a malfunction, he said.

-- Elizabeth Gudrais of the Journal State House Bureau

Vincent said the company is reviewing surveillance videos to see if it’s possible to identify individuals who redeemed the doubled credits. In particular, he said the company will try to determine whether anyone organized an effort to obtain the payouts systematically. “I would assume that would go into an area that is criminal activity,” Vincent said.

Although the state police are the enforcement arm of the state lottery, the police are not yet involved in the investigation, officials said. “We have no criminal investigation being conducted at this time,” Maj. Joseph R. Miech, state police spokesman, said today. “There’s been no criminal complaint filed.”

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:46 PM | Comment

R.I. Guardsman to receive Purple Heart tomorrow

A Rhode Islander back from Iraq will receive the Purple Heart tomorrow morning at a ceremony in Providence.

Lt. Robert M. Vaccaro of Kingston will get the medal -- awarded in the name of the nation's president to anyone in the armed forces who is wounded or killed during combat -- after being wounded on Jan. 14 while doing route-clearing operations in Baghdad, the Rhode Island National Guard said in a news release today.

Vaccaro, of the Rhode Island National Guard, had critical wounds and was treated initially at Bethesda Medical Center and then at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Tampa, Fla. He recently returned home.

The ceremony will be held at the Armory of Mounted Commands, 1051 North Main St., at 7:45 a.m.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Vaccaro was comissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps upon graduating from the University of Rhode Island in 2005. He immediately joined the Rhode Island Army National Guard and was assigned to the 861st Engineering Company, which had recently returned from Iraq.

After completing the U.S. Army Basic Officer Engineering Course, he responded to a request for volunteers to deploy with the 130th Engineering Company, Puerto Rico Army National Guard.

He remains on active duty while recovering from wounds.

"We are thrilled to have Lt. Vaccaro back with us here in Rhode Island today. His actions in Iraq on the day he was injured speak to the incredible level of dedication to duty which he displayed," Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, who commands the Rhode Island National Guard, said in the statement. "That he volunteered to deploy with another unit so that they did not have to go short handed is a true testament to Lt. Vaccaro and we couldn't be prouder of his actions nor happier that he is back with us."

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:15 PM | Comment

Providence murder victim ID'd as Fall River man, 20

PROVIDENCE -- Providence police today identified last night's murder victim as Marc Quintal, 20, of Fall River, Mass.

Maj. Stephen Campbell, commander of police investigative division, said Quintal and three other men drove to Providence last night to make a drug deal.

Campbell said Quintal parked his Nissan Altima at Hayward and Pearl streets. He was approached by a group of men who attempted to rob him.

Then, one or more of the men pulled a gun and fired into the car. Quintal was hit. The gunman ran away.

Quintal was able to drive half a block to the parking lot of a Burger King where one of the passengers asked someone in the restaurant to call 911.

Quintal was pronounced dead at Rhode Island Hospital. The police later found a semi-automatic handgun in the area that they suspect killed Quintal.

No arrests have been made. But Campbell said detectives have information that they believe will lead them to a suspect.

-- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Posted by Peter Phipps at 1:52 PM | Comment

Public can share DCYF experiences at hearing

PROVIDENCE -- The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services is holding a http://www.projo.com/news/content/dcyf_public_hearing_08-14-07_066M2DQ.326e367.html3 p.m. hearing on the public's experiences with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families.

It is scheduled to be in the Senate Lounge on the second floor of the State House.

The committee is holding hearings in part because of the recent state child advocate's lawsuit over DCYF's handling of children in state care.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archival reports

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:41 PM | Comment

New ice rink bubbles up in Cranston / Photo

Journal photo / Kathy Borchers
After months of waiting, a new ice rink took shape today in Cranston. The bubble dome was inflated by 8 a.m., and workers were making adjustments around the entrances. The dome had been bought from the city of Vail, Col., to replace the city's popular rink, which was destroyed by fire in January 2006. Officials had hoped to erect the bubble alongside Cranston Veterans Memorial as early as April of last year. But transportation tie-ups and a flap over whether the rink met building codes contributed to long delays. Read more about the rink in today's Journal story.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 12:02 PM | Comment

Campaign against drinking and driving to begin

The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association announced today it's teaming with the Department of Transportation to crack down on people who drink and drive, beginning tomorrow and running through Sept. 17.

The campaign's theme is "choose a designated sober driver or someone else will choose one for you," the chiefs' association said in a news release.

Nearly half of Rhode Island's highway deaths involve alcohol, the association said.

The kickoff will be held tomorrow at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence at 2:15 p.m. Speakers includes Col. Brendan P. Doherty -- who heads up the state police -- the vice president of the chiefs assoication, the Department of Transportation director, and the chief state medical examiner.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:50 AM | Comment

Route 95 lane restrictions tonight for the Iway project

PROVIDENCE -- Drivers tonight can expect temporary lane restrictions in the exit 18 to exit 20 area, the Department of Transportation said.

Starting at 8 p.m., workers will begin shutting lanes on one or both sides of the highway between Exits 18 and 20, with the maximum lane closures taking place after 11 p.m.

At least one lane in each direction will be open. All lanes will be reopened by 5:30 a.m. for the morning commute.

Work will take place on Sunday through Thursday nights. No work is scheduled for Friday or Saturday night or holidays. The DOT advises drivers to use Route 295 or Route 10 as alternate routes during the overnight.

The DOT had shut down part of I-95 over the past two weeks to allow for safe installation of steel beams on the Iway project.

Steel beam setting will resume in approximately six weeks over Eddy Street and Allens Avenue. Local road closures may happen then.

And the DOT expects to resume overnight full highway closures sometime toward year's end to allow for pouring of a concrete deck on top of the steel assemblies.

Information on lane restrictions will be posted daily at www.dot.state.ri.us/traffic.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:14 AM | Comment

Update: Bristol veterans home chief put on leave

BRISTOL -- The administrator of the Rhode Island Veterans Home has been placed on paid administrative leave, pending review of the management issues at the veterans home, a state Department of Human Services spokeswoman said.

David Kirchner was put on leave yesterday while the department investigates complaints from families of residents about limited access to their loved ones after questions were brought up about care.

It was not yet clear what dollar figure is attached to the paid leave.

A special legislative commission's interim report earlier this month criticized some operations at the veterans home, finding problems that include antagonism toward residents.

The 11-page report found morale problems among staff and some policy abuses, including denying information releases to families.

The report said "reliable sources" gave information to the five-member Special House Commission to Study Potential Administrative and Functional Improvements at the Rhode Island Veterans Home.

The study is continuing and the commission won't issue a final report until the General Assembly regular session resumes in January.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Alex Kuffner

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:11 AM | Comment

Smithfield couple: Essay won't get you their house

SMITHFIELD -- A Smithfield couple has decided to sell their ranch house the traditional way after an earlier plan to give it to the winner of an essay contest met with little interest.

Yelena and Anoosh Khaze said they wanted the four-bedroom house to go to a low-income family who would explain in an essay why they needed the home.

The couple charged a $100 entry fee for the contest and said they needed a minimum of 3,200 entrants to make the contest financially viable for them.

They didn't come close. Despite attempts to publicize the contest, the Khazes said they received only 48 entries.

The couple promised to reimburse 90 percent of the entry fees if they failed to reach the minimum number of entrants, and they say they will now make good on that promise.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:07 AM | Comment

$200,000 PowerBall ticket bought in Pawtucket

The Lottery Commission says a winning ticket worth $200,000 was sold in Rhode Island.

The ticket matched the first five numbers in last night's PowerBall drawing for $183.7 million, but not the final PowerBall number.

The ticket was bought at Joe's Cedar Street Shell in Pawtucket.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 9:57 AM | Comment

Update: Cianci makes a deal with WPRO

Former Providence Mayor Vincent Buddy Cianci will be resuming his talk-show career at WPRO. He'll start September 20.

Cianci, who got out of federal prison this spring, will host a show in a time slot that has yet to be determined. The station manager today said a decision would be made in two weeks.

The announcement was made at 7:10 with morning host Ron St. Pierre and Cianci chatting about the former mayor's return to WPRO.

There had been speculation that Cianci was going to WPRO's rival, WHJJ. And Cianci this morning didn't deny that he had looked at more than one proposal.

So why, St. Pierre asked, did Cianci choose WPRO?

In addition to the money, or as Cianci called it, "the faces of the presidents," the former mayor said he picked WPRO because it's "the heritage station of Rhode Island."

Over the past 20 years, Cianci has sandwiched radio work around two long stretches at Providence City Hall. He first worked at WHJJ and then briefly at WPRO in 2002 before going to prison on a corruption charge.

St. Pierre introduced his interview today with Cianci with a joke about how early it was.

"I bet you didn't think I could get up this early," Cianci replied.

Cianci said he would be provocative, but not negative. "I don't have an agenda. I'm out of politics," Cianci said.

-- Peter Phipps

Your turn: What time slot is best for Buddy?

Program Director Paul Giammarco said the details of the station's line-up of talk show hosts will be announced later. Giammarco said that the station's four existing hosts, St.Pierre, John DePetro, Rush Limbaugh and Dan Yorke, will all remain at the station.

"Ron, John, Rush and Dan are important members of our station's line-up," he said. "Each provides the public with their unique perspectives on local, regional and national issues, and the forum for the public to engage, be entertained and be informed."

"Right now," Giammarco said, "everyone is going to be here."

Posted by Peter Phipps at 7:56 AM | Comment

Thunderstorm possible today; weekend looks great

It will be mostly cloudly today and hot.

But there's a cold front on the way, the National Weather Service says. That means we could get a thunderstorm tonight and tomorrow.

But then the weekend looks like it will be dry and sunny.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:55 AM | Comment

Routes 95 and 195 reopen on schedule.

All three parts of Routes 95 and 195, closed overnight, reopened this morning by 4:40.

The crews building the new 195-95 interchange last night closed all or parts of: Route 95 north between exits 18 and 20; the Route 195 ramp to 95 south and Route 95 south.

The lanes closed at 11 last night. The Department of Transportation promised to have the highways reopened by 5:30 for the morning commute.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:49 AM | Comment

Download today's front page

The latest crisis at DCYF and part 5 of Download file">Green Power lead today's Journal.
Download file

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:46 AM | Comment

August 15, 2007

In Warren, ' State of the Union' takes center stage

Tonight could be a nice one to catch some theater.

In Warren, 2nd Story Theatre puts on "State of the Union," which its describes as a Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy that "waltzes between back room and bedroom, between affairs of state and affairs of the heart."

The play starts at 8 p.m. Admission is $25. Performances run through Sept. 1.

Looking for more going-out ideas? Check projo.com's calendar of events.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:08 PM | Comment

Airport Corp. backs lease for yacht yard at Quonset

NORTH KINGSTOWN -- The Rhode Island Airport Corporation gave preliminary approval today to lease 32 acres of land at the Quonset Airport to a Florida developer seeking to construct a shipbuilding and repair yard for giant yachts at the Quonset Business Park.

The state agency that controls the business park, the Quonset Development Corporation, has already indicated its support for the project, setting aside 43 acres along Narragansett Bay south of the southern pier at Davisville.

But the airport property is considered critical to that project, and the initial approval today gave a promising signal to Island Global.

“This was a crucial piece for Island Global Yachting to move forward,” Dyana Koelsch, a QDC spokeswoman, said. “Without it, the deal would not have gone through.”

-- Journal staff writer Benjamin N. Gedan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:05 PM | Comment

Fox tests positive for rabies in Hopkinton

HOPKINTON -- Police shot a fox over the weekend that tested positive for rabies. A man, who was previously bitten by a fox, is being treated for rabies as a precaution.

Philip Scalise, 49, of 16 Esta’s Way, told police he was bitten by a fox twice Sunday afternoon, first as he took out his trash and then as he showed an officer where the original incident occurred.

The fox ran away before the officer could do anything. Minutes later, another patrol officer shot a wandering fox on nearby Collins Road.

The state Department of Health tested that fox and found it had rabies. Scalise, a former town councilman and member of the Zoning Board of Review, will be treated for rabies as a precaution.

The DOH regularly tests for rabies wildlife when there is human or pet contact, said a spokeswoman for the department, Andrea Bagnall Degos.

-- Journal staff writer Maria Armental

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:03 PM | Comment

Alert: Shooting in Burger King parking lot in Providence

PROVIDENCE -- Police and other emergency personnel are at the scene of a shooting reported in the parking lot of the Burger King at 280 Broad St.

The call came in at 6:26 p.m., according to Jim Taylor, chief of communications for the Providence Fire Department.

Early indications are that one person was shot. The person's condition was not yet known.

No other information is available.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:56 PM | Comment

N. Kingstown government hits the little screen

NORTH KINGSTOWN -- If you missed last week’s Town Council meeting, don’t worry.

You can always catch it on the town’s Web site, at www.northkingstown.org.

It’s no big-screen experience. The image is about 3 by 3 ½ inches. But you can watch the entire meeting – public hearings , the town manager’s report and liquor license approvals -- on your computer screen.

You can even find past meetings, agendas, reports and minutes.

The municipal Web portal is the first in New England powered by the San Francisco-based company Granicus, says Jason Albuquerque, the town’s director of information technology.

Most meetings in the area are viewed on cable television rather than on computer screens.

Granicus began recording local meetings on June 11. Five are archived on the site.

“The need for a more streamlined and open government is apparent,” Albuquerque said today. Providing Webcasts of meetings “allows our government to communicate that much more effectively.”

The Town Council has considered the move for several years. This year it acted, said Council President Edward J. Cooney, and the service was announced today.

-- Journal staff writer Paul Davis

By taking the first step in the region, the council was able to strike a deal with the company – about $1,000 a month for the service, Cooney said.

“Being first is nice, but economically it was a good deal for the town,” he said.

Town officials signed a three-year contract for the service, which will include planning, zoning and school board meetings in the future, Cooney said.

Granicus provides video streaming to more than 200 communities, counties and clients, from Anaheim, Calif. to Tallahassee, Fl.

“The benefits to residents are two-fold,” Cooney said. “It’s often tough for people to get out, and meetings can go on for three or four hours. Now, you can watch the meetings from home.”

Also, after 48 hours, the meetings are archived, which means residents can search videos by agenda item rather than watch an entire recording (the longest archived meeting is 4 hours and 22 minutes).

“It’s a significant way to bring government to the citizens without requiring the citizens to come to the government,” Cooney said. “It makes government friendlier.”

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:50 PM | Comment

DOT finishes latest phase of Rte. 95 closures

The state Department of Transportation announced today it's finished the latest phase of overnight highway closures on Route 95 in Providence.

The DOT had shut down part of the highway over the past two weeks to allow for safe installation of steel beams on the Interstate 195 relocation project, called the Iway. The recent steel assembly will carry future traffic from Route 95 south to Route 195 east.

Work continues tonight with lane restrictions only. Beginning at 8 p.m., workers will start shutting down lanes on one or both sides of the highway between Exits 18 and 20, with the maximum lane closures taking place after 11 p.m.

A minimum of one lane in each direction will be maintained. All lanes will be reopened by 5:30 a.m. for the commute.

The DOT advises drivers to use Route 295 or Route 10 as alternate routes during overnight closings.

Steel beam setting will resume in about six weeks over Eddy Street and Allens Avenue. Local road closures may be needed during that time.

The DOT said it expects to resume overnight full highway closures sometime toward year's end to allow the pouring of a concrete deck on top of the steel assemblies.

More information on lane restrictions will be posted daily at: www.dot.state.ri.us/traffic.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:41 PM | Comment

Update: Barrington, Bristol, Warren beaches open

The state Health Department late today recommended re-opening to swimming Barrington Town Beach, Bristol Town Beach and Warren Town Beach

Earlier today, the department re-opened Atlantic Beach Club Beach in Middletown.

Re-opened on Sunday was Easton's Beach in Newport, just down the shore from the Atlantic Beach Club.

To check information about swimming at Rhode Island beaches, go to the beach closings page on the Health Department's Web site or call (401) 222-2751.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:56 PM | Comment

Brazil wants investigation of immigrant's death in R.I.

The Brazilian government today asked the U.S. government to “investigate deeply” the death of Edmar Alves De Araujo, a 34-year-old illegal immigrant who died last Tuesday while in federal custody here.

Araujo was pronounced dead at Rhode Island Hospital after he suffered an apparent seizure while at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement processing center in Providence. Araujo was taken into federal custody on an outstanding deportation warrant, after Woonsocket police arrested him on a traffic violation and learned he was in the country illegally.

His death drew public outcry from community advocates and family, who called his death “senseless” and “tragic.”

“Our government is pushing our consulate (in Boston) to follow carefully the investigation, because it is something not so usual – especially when somebody is under the custody of police,” said a spokesman for Celso Amorim, Brazil’s Minister of External Relations. “Our minister director our consulate in Boston to follow all the investigations carried out” by federal authorities, the spokesman said.

Araujo’s death is under investigation by the Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General; the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility, and the Rhode Island Office of State Medical Examiners.

Meanwhile, Providence lawyer Randy Olen said today the family is making preparations to return Araujo’s body to Brazil.

-- Journal staff writer Karen Lee Ziner

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:09 PM | Comment

Group asks AG to probe N. Providence protest incident

The organization whose protest in North Providence Saturday saw a member sustain a serious leg injury today issued a "list of demands" to Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch.

The demands include a "full investigation into the actions of the North Providence Police Department" and that all police charges be droppped against Alexandra Svoboda, whose leg was broken, and Jason Friedmutter. The group also wants "financial enumerations" to "compensate for physical and mental anguish."

The Industrial Workers of the World said in a news release it has set a noon deadline tomorrow for Lynch to respond.

And the union said members and supporters will be at the the attorney general's office in Providence tomorrow at 2 p.m. to follow up on their demands.

"We are also requesting that the attorney general have an audience with an IWW delegation," the statement said.

A spokesman for the attorney general could not be immediately reached.

The police are probing whether officers used excessive force against 22-year-old Svoboda, whose leg was twisted and broken during the protest against an Asian restaurant on Mineral Spring Avenue.

Both Deputy Police Chief Paul Marino and Mayor Charles Lombardi both reiterated yesterday they don’t believe local officers did anything wrong.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:36 PM | Comment

Sales slump spurs staff cuts at Amgen

WEST GREENWICH -- Pharmaceutical giant Amgen Inc. has announced plans to reduce its staff by 12 to 14 percent in response to slumping sales of its anemia drugs.

Amgen employs 1,700 people at its manufacturing plant in West Greenwich.

In a statement today, the company said it plans to close several production operations. It did not mention any by name.

A call to Amgen spokesman Larry Bernard was not immediately returned.

-- Journal staff writer Benjamin N. Gedan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:12 PM | Comment

Rhode Islander held after tossing liquid in whale tank

MYSTIC, Conn. -- A Rhode Island man has been taken into custody at the Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration in Connecticut after throwing liquid into a whale tank.

Stonington police say Paul Watkins of East Providence is charged with disorderly conduct and criminal trespass. He was ordered held on $25,000 bond.

He's accused of tossing a mixture of iodine and a substance used for soldering into a 750,000-gallon tank that is home to three whales.

A spokesman for the aquarium says the whales were not hurt and tests have determined that the water is fine.

Police say the 54-year-old Watkins said he threw the liquid into the tank to keep the fish warm and protect them from Agent Orange.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:09 PM | Comment

Man accused of hitting ex-girlfriend's pit bull with pipe

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. -- A 35-year-old man is charged with felony cruelty to animals after the police said he pulled up in a truck to his ex-girlfriend and struck her pet pit bull in the head with a metal pipe.

Brentwood Knowles, with a last known address in New Bedford, was slated for arraignment today in New Bedford District Court.

On Tuesday, a woman whom police did not name, was walking the pet pit bull on a leash on Mill Street in the city's west end. The news release said the pit bull was friendly and appropriately licensed.

The dog fell to the ground and "had obviously serious injuries bleeding from its head and mouth," the police said in a news release.

Knowles got back into the truck and fled, the police said. The woman called the police, and officers and animal control arrived on scene. A broadcast was sent out, and Officer Nelson Goncalves found Knowles and took him into custody without incident, according to the police.

The dog was treated at a veterinary clinic for lacerations, contusions and a concussion but is expected to make a full recovery.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:37 PM | Comment

Update: Excavator tips at station demolition site / Photo

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
A construction worker races to look for the operator of the excavator after it tipped this afternoon. The excavator rolled over after sinking into the basement of the old police and fire station at LaSalle Square.

PROVIDENCE -- Firefighters, who have been reminiscing since demolition began on the old police-fire headquarters at LaSalle Square, were called to a demolition emergency today.

An equipment operator working on the demolition suffered an ankle injury when his excavator tipped over just before 1 p.m., said Deputy Assistant Fire Chief Henry Cochrane.

As the unidentified operator was piling up debris, his tracked excavator ran over the void of the building’s open basement and turned onto its side, Cochrane related. The operator was thrown out of the cab and into the basement.

“In a way he lucked out because he landed in the cellar and the machine stayed up on top” and did not fall on him, Cochrane said.

There was no obvious way to safely get into the basement, the sides of which are bristling with exposed metal rods, Cochrane explained. But because the building used to be their home, firefighters knew right away that they could get into the basement by using a door on the Fountain Street side that used to lead to the bays where the chiefs’ vehicles were parked.

Once in the basement, rescue workers unfolded what they call a stair chair and sat the victim in it so he could be safely and comfortably carried up the staircase and then transferred to a gurney. The operator suffered a sprained or broken ankle, he said.

-- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

The police notified the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which sent two inspectors to the work site at 209 Fountain St. downtown.

Firefighters, whose main station is now housed in the Public Safety Complex several blocks away, have been interested observers of the progress of demolition. When the emergency call came in, Cochrane said, some of them were chatting about how they wished they could have a brick as a memento.

Cranston developer The Procaccianti Group began demolishing the building this month to clear the area for a parking lot.

-- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith

Journal photo / Andrew Dickerman
A worker spreads water to minimize dust as demolition continued this morning -- before the machinery incident -- of the former Providence police and fire headquarters in LaSalle Square. The building had opened in 1938 and closed after a new police safety complex was opened in 2002.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:50 PM | Comment

ACLU wants governor to withdraw brief on gay divorce

The local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union announced today it's called on Governor Carcieri to withdraw a legal brief submitted for a state Supreme Court case that could decide if a lesbian couple married in Massachusetts could divorce in Rhode Island.

The ACLU said it and three other organizations sent a letter to the governor because the "strong opposition to same-sex marriage contained in the governor's brief -- written by an out-of-state private attorney -- has been widely noted."

In a news release, the ACLU specifically says it's focusing on the governor's "inexplicable attack" on Rhode Island's "no-fault divorce laws." The ACLU quotes the brief asserting that no-fault divorce has resulted in "more children ill equipped to cope in a world already fraught with problems" and even that it's led women to take "steps to protect their human capital by entering the work force and pursuing education."

In response to that, the ACLU news release said it knows there are "some people out there who long for a return to the 'idyllic' 1950s when women knew their place was in the kitchen, but we do not expect to hear echoes of it emanating from a gubernatorial court brief."

If the brief is not withdrawn, the ACLU says, then "we request that [the governor] formally clarify your position on these issues."

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archival reports

Today's announcement follows one issued by the state Democratic Party chairman last week. The chairman, William Lynch, announced he was pursuing under the Freedom of Information Act whether taxpayers have paid for the out-of-state lawyer's services. Lynch characterized the lawyer, James Bopp Jr., as "right wing," saying he "has made a living representing the narrow-minded ideology of people like Tom DeLay."

Lynch -- the brother of state Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch, who filed a brief with the court on gay divorce that comes to different conclusions than the governor's -- asserted that the brief filed for the governor pushed the governor's personal views and should therefore have been paid for with personal money.

Carcieri is a Catholic and Republican. The Democrat Lynch brothers, who hail from an Irish-Catholic family, have a sister who married a woman in Massachusetts

Carcieri's office signed a $15,000 contract with Indiana lawyer Bopp to submit a friend-of-the-court brief by a court deadline.

Last week, a spokesman for the governor said that Bopp was one of at least two nationally known lawyers who contacted the governor's office about writing the brief. Bopp was picked for the no-bid contract and spent about two weeks writing the brief.

Spokesman Michael Maynard said last week the governor “wanted to get someone who had expertise on this issue who could file a brief that would get to the core of the issue. That was Bopp." Maynard said that the office found Bopp's rate was the best available.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:44 PM | Comment

5-day Washington County Fair opens gates / Photo

Journal photo / Gretchen Ertl
Brianna O'Connor, 19, of Charlestown puts polish on the hooves of Suzy, a 2-year-old Brown Swiss, as she helps Alex Huling, 11, of North Kingstown, get the cow ready for judging during the first morning of the Washington County Fair.

RICHMOND -- Rhode Island celebrates its agrarian roots this week, with the opening tonight of the 41st annual Washington County Fair.

The fair, sponsored by the Washington County Pomona Grange, runs through Sunday at the fairgrounds off Route 112.

From freshly-harvested produce and classic New England foods, to prize farm animals to amusement rides and country music stars, the fair has something to delight just about all ages and interests.

The grounds opened today at 9 a.m. Today is also $1 day at the food booths, and senior citizens day with a $1 reduction in price for seniors.

Special events are planned throughout the fairgrounds each day, including the Washington County Fair Queen and Princess announcement tonight at 7.

To find a complete listing of fair events, check the fair’s Web site, www.washingtoncountyfair-ri.com.

To find out what it takes to put on the fair, read Journal staff writer Arline Fleming's story today.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 11:15 AM | Comment

Middletown beach re-opened to swimming

The state Department of Health today recommended re-opening the Atlantic Beach Club Beach in Middletown to swimming, after finding bacteria levels within acceptable limits.

Still closed to swimming are Barrington Town Beach, Bristol Town Beach and Warren Town Beach, all East Bay-area beaches.

Re-opened on Sunday was Easton's Beach in Newport, just down the shore from the Atlantic Beach Club.

Beach status could change at any time, the Health Department reminds, as it continues its testing. For up-to-date information about swimming at Rhode Island beaches, go to the beach closings page on the department's Web site, or for recorded information, call (401) 222-2751.

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 10:53 AM | Comment

No teacher contract in Providence and other districts

A number of Rhode Island school districts have yet to settle contracts with teachers.

The largest is Providence with 26,000 students. Other districts without labor agreements include Burrillville, East Greenwich, Exeter-West Greenwich, Jamestown, Foster-Glocester, New Shoreham, North Kingstown and Tiverton.

Teachers union officials say they're optimistic that contracts will be reached without any job actions.

But Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals President Marcia Reback says the state's refusal to provide new funding for education has been a ``death blow'' for Providence schools.

-- The Associated Press and Journal reports

Posted by Peter Phipps at 9:26 AM | Comment

Route 95 open again today ahead of schedule

PROVIDENCE -- Route 95 northbound lanes between exits 18 and 20 reopened this morning around 4:45 a.m., according to the state Department of Transportation.

The highway closed at 11 p.m. to complete a span connecting Route 95 south to the new Route 195 bridge.

This is the third week of this second round of closures for the highway project.

Last night was to have been the last full closure of Route 95 that will be needed in this phase.
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Check out the road-closure schedule on the DOT’s site.

For a look back at the earlier closures this year, see projo.com’s special reports section.

Posted by Kate Bramson at 7:15 AM | Comment

Sunny today; a bit dangerous off shore

Today looks like a good day to hit the beach, except for one thing.

The National Weather Service has issued a small craft warning and a hazardous weather outlook for southern Rhode Island.

The weather service forecasts a moderate risk of rip currents today and tonight at beaches facing the south.

Out in the ocean, the weather service warns that gusts could hit 25 kts this afternoon with 1 to 2-foot swells.

Otherwise, the day will be grand with sunny skies and a high temperature of around 82.

Watch out for thunderstorms tomorrow.

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:52 AM | Comment

Download today's front page

The latest installment of Green Power, this one on biodiesel, and the official reaction from North Providence police about an injured demonstrator lead today's Journal.
Download file

Posted by Peter Phipps at 6:49 AM | Comment

Gas prices drop again in Rhode Island

Gas prices fell again in Rhode Island, shedding 5 cents in the last week and 16 cents from last month, AAA Southern New England reports.

Self-serve regular unleaded averaged $2.819 per gallon, the AAA's latest survey found.

A year ago at this time, the average price locally was $3.089. A month ago, on July 16, the average price was $2.979.

The current price is also 27 cents below the highest price recorded in Rhode Island by AAA this year -- $3.089 on May 28.

But the state is still 5 cents above the national average of $2.769 for regular unleaded.

The prices in the latest survey of regular-unleaded self serve ranged from $2.699 to $2.909.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:47 AM | Comment

August 14, 2007

Update: Injury at protest spurs probe, demonstration

Journal photo / Steve Szydlowski
A demonstrator holds up a photo of Alexandra Svoboda from the protest Saturday.

PROVIDENCE -- About 35 labor union organizers gathered outside Rhode Island Hospital this afternoon holding poster-size photos of 22-year-old Alexandra Svoboda with her injured left leg bent grotesquely as a North Providence police officer hovers over her and another was close by.

That image emerged from Saturday's demonstration outside Jacky's Galaxie restaurant in North Providence in which the union and North Providence police scuffled. The union -- the International Workers of the World -- said the restaurant does business with Dragon Land Trading, a New York-based restaurant supplier that the union says has violated labor laws.

See freelance photos of Saturday's protest, posted here.

The restaurant's owner said Monday that he had ceased doing business with the supplier targeted by the marchers.

Officials said today the police department is doing an internal investigation into the conduct of officers at the demonstration.

Deputy Police Chief Paul Marino denied allegations of police brutality.

As part of the investigation, police are asking businesses with outdoor security cameras near the demonstration site to give police their tapes. Police are making a similar request to the state Department of Transportation, which has a traffic camera at the intersection where the protesters staged.

The mayor met with police officials this afternoon.

Those attending what they called a vigil at the hospital this afternoon said they hand-delivered this morning a letter to the state attorney general asking for an investigation, according to Jason Tompkins, a member of Industrial Workers of the World.

They have set a deadline for noon on Thursday for a response form the attorney general. If there is no response, they will demonstrate at the attorney general's office that afternoon at 4.

Mark Bray, another spokesman for IWW, said the organization has been served with a temporary restraining order prohibiting them from picketing at any of the five Jacky's Galaxie locations in the state and that there is a hearing on the restraining order Thursday in Superior Courr.

As the vigil began, Svoboda's parents were outside the hospital for a time while their daughter was undergoing her second surgery, this one to repair a severed vein at the back of the knee.

Scott Svoboda, Alexandra's father, flew in from Nebraska and said earlier today that his daughter is doing “as well as can be expected.” His daughter has been listed as in “good” condition in the Intensive Care Unit.

-- projo.com staff writers Michael P. McKinney and Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writers Gina Macris and Richard C. Dujardin

Alexandra had already had one operation to reattach a detached fibula (calf bone), and will be having another to reattach severed arteries and relieve pressure from accumulating fluids, Scott said.

Alexandra's mother, Jan Enstrom, said the first surgery havrested a vein from Alexandra's foot to repair the artery and it saved the leg.

She said the second operation is to increase the blood flow to the lower leg and to make sure she wil have use of the leg.

"I’m amazed at the support and the rallying around this incident for Alex," Scott Svoboda said.

He said this afternoon that said there are two FBI agents and a deputy sheriff in the extended family -- that's espeiclaly why his daughter knows not to resist police.

"She’s a very passive individual, not the type that would strike out at a police officer ... she respects law, and respects her right to protest," he said earlier today.

He added, "I respect her right to protest as well."

Svoboda said his daughter called from the hospital on Sunday, after her first surgery “with just enough information to scare the living daylights out of me.”

In a statement, the IWW says police told the protesters to move to the sidewalk. After first ignoring the order, the protesters began to move. As they did, police surrounded them and began making arrests.

Svoboda and her friend, Jason Friedmutter, were arrested. She faces charges of assaulting an officer, disturbing the peace and resisting arrest. Friedmutter was released shortly after his arrest, according to Mike Brey, spokesman for the IWW, and faces minor charges.

A spokesman for the Industrial Workers of the World says the labor union will be meeting with attorneys Thursday to discuss what action the group will take.

“I can’t comment on what we have in store, but we will be filing complaints and trying to gain compensation for Alex and for her injuries,” Brey said.

Brey said the union is planning an anti-police brutality rally in North Providence on Aug. 26. He said he was shocked at what he saw Saturday.

“Many of us have been to larger protests, and even with riot police, none of us had ever seen an injury like (Svoboda’s) in our entire lives,” he said.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:20 PM | Comment

New Bedford man accused of assault in baby's death

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. -- A 28-year-old New Bedford man is accused of assault and battery on a 10-month-old boy who was pronounced dead today at Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence.

Manuel Antonio Torres Lopez, described by police as the boyfriend of the boy's mother, was arrested on warrants, the police said in a news release.

The baby, Josiah Pacheco, died at approximately 10:35 a.m., the police said.

On Saturday at about 2:12 p.m. the police got a 911 call reporting the baby had stopped breathing at 56 Deane Street in New Bedford.

Detectives Paul Demers and Shane Reul found the baby unresponsive and not breathing when they arrived. The detectives began CPR, reviving the child until fire department and emergency medical services arrived to take over.

The child was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford and then immediately taken Hasbro Children's Hospital because of severe injuries, the police said. He remained there on life support.

New Bedford Police investigators and State Police assigned to District Attorney Sam Sutter’s office investigated and Lopez was questioned at police headquarters.

Lopez, who was arraigned today in New Bedford District Court, was charged with assault and battery upon a household member and with assault and battery upon a child under 14 resulting in serious bodily injury.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:20 PM | Comment

Labor Dept. grants $617,515 for ex-Quaker workers

FALL RIVER -- Former employees of the shuttered Quaker Fabric Corp. plant received a rare piece of good news today, when the Department of Labor announced that it had approved a National Emergency Grant of $617,515 to assist former Quaker staff.

The money will pay for career counseling and job search assistance at a special career center being established in Fall River for former Quaker employees, according to Linnea Walsh, spokeswoman for the Massachusetts Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

Massachusetts has set aside $250,000 to help establish the reemployment center, where four former Quaker workers have been hired as staff.

It is scheduled to open next month, Walsh said.

“While my preference would be to make changes in our national economic policies that would prevent these kinds of closures from happening, as long as they do occur, we need to do all we can to see that those who lose their jobs receive as much help as possible,” U.S. Rep. Barney Frank said in a statement today.

Last month, Quaker fired all 930 employees, including at least 62 Rhode Island residents, when it ceased manufacturing.
-- Journal staff writer Benjamin N. Gedan

Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:30 PM | Comment

N. Kingstown officials want faulty concrete removed

NORTH KINGSTOWN -- Two Town Council members are urging the state Department of Transportation to remove what they say is unsafe concrete used on a bridge tied to a Route 403 road project.

In a news release today, GOP councilmen Anthony F. Miccolis Jr. and John A. Patterson asked the state to replace 75 cubic feet of concrete that was used by the construction company Cardi Corp. on a bridge abutment.

In an earlier interview, Frank Corrao III, the DOT’s deputy chief engineer, said that a batch of concrete used on a highway project near Quonset Point did not meet state specifications.

The concrete was used to build a 21-foot high bridge abutment. The abutment holds up one end of the bridge carrying Frenchtown Road over an off-ramp from Route 4 north to the new Route 403 east.

Corrao earlier dismissed the problem as a minor one related to the concrete’s strength. Where the specification called for it to be able to resist 5,000 pounds of pressure per square inch, the batch in question failed at 4,781 pounds per square inch, Corrao said.

That doesn’t mean the bridge is unsafe, Corrao said today.

-- Journal staff writer Paul Davis

“We test to ensure that we get the highest quality products,” he said.
When a concrete fixture flunks a test, the DOT has two choices: demand that the contractor demolish it and pour new concrete, or run an engineering test and, if the product is good, get a break on the price, he said.

In this case, DOT engineers determined that the concrete is more than strong enough for the job. “There’s absolutely nothing unsafe about it,” Carrao said. Instead, the state will take a $6,000 credit from the Cardi company.

But Miccolis and Patterson today said the state cannot be too careful -- especially in light of the Aug. 1 collapse of an interstate highway bridge in Minneapolis during the evening rush hour.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:29 PM | Comment

Update: N. Providence police to probe protest incident

NORTH PROVIDENCE -- Officials said today the police department is doing an internal investigation into the conduct of officers at Saturday’s demonstration that left a protester hospitalized.

Deputy Police Chief Paul Marino denied allegations of police brutality.

As part of the investigation, police are asking businesses with outdoor security cameras near the demonstration site to give police their tapes.

Police are making a similar request to the state Department of Transportation, which has a traffic camera at the intersection where the protesters staged.

The mayor met with police officials this afternoon.

The father of a 22-year-old who was injured Saturday during a labor union protest in North Providence has flown in from Nebraska and said ealrie rtoday that his daughter is doing “as well as can be expected.”

Alexandra Svoboda suffered serious injuries after an encounter with the North Providence police during the protest outside a restaurant.

Scott Svoboda said he will not be outside during a planned vigil this afternoon at Rhode Island Hospital, where his daughter is listed as in “good” condition in the Intensive Care Unit.

He’ll be inside with Alexandra, who has already had one operation to reattach a detached fibula (calf bone), and will be having another to reattach severed arteries and relieve pressure from accumulating fluids, Scott said.

"I’m amazed at the support and the rallying around this incident for Alex," he said.

"She’s a very passive individual, not the type that would strike out at a police officer ... she respects law, and respects her right to protest."

He added, "I respect her right to protest as well."

-- projo.com staff writers Michael P. McKinney and Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Richard C. Dujardin

Svoboda said his daughter called from the hospital on Sunday, after her first surgery “with just enough information to scare the living daylights out of me.”

Alexandra, who works at a restaurant, was protesting outside Jacky’s Galaxie restaurant Saturday with the Industrial Workers of the World. The IWW says the restaurant does business with Dragon Land Trading, a New York-based restaurant supplier that the union says has violated labor laws.

The restaurant's owner said Monday that he had ceased doing business with the supplier targeted by the marchers.

In a statement, the IWW says police told the protesters to move to the sidewalk. After first ignoring the order, the protesters began to move. As they did, police surrounded them and began making arrests.

Svoboda and her friend, Jason Friedmutter, were arrested. She faces charges of assaulting an officer, disturbing the peace and resisting arrest. Friedmutter was released shortly after his arrest, according to Mike Brey, spokesman for the IWW, and faces minor charges.

A spokesman for the Industrial Workers of the World says the labor union will be meeting with attorneys Thursday to discuss what action the group will take.

“I can’t comment on what we have in store, but we will be filing complaints and trying to gain compensation for Alex and for her injuries,” Brey said.

Brey said the union is planning an anti-police brutality rally in North Providence on Aug. 26. He said he was shocked at what he saw Saturday.

“Many of us have been to larger protests, and even with riot police, none of us had ever seen an injury like (Svboda’s) in our entire lives,” he said.

See freelance photos of the protest, posted here.

Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:10 PM | Comment

Truck roll-over closes exit on Route 146 north

NORTH SMITHFIELD -- The Route 104 exit ramp off northbound Route 146 north was closed for the entire morning rush hour today, after a truck loaded with approximately 1,000 one-gallon jugs of bleach rolled over while trying to get off the highway.

The driver of the truck, Papa Mbodji, 50, of 27 Cady St. Woonsocket, suffered a broken arm and a broken rib in the accident, State Police Sgt. Mark B. Surtel said. Mbodji was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was being held for evaluation, Surtel said.

The accident occurred at about 5:20 a.m., when Mbodji who had been driving all night from Aberdeen, Md., with a load of between 750 and 1,000 gallon jugs of bleach destined for the BJ’s warehouse in Uxbridge, Mass., tried to get off the northbound highway.

Surtel said the truck failed to negotiated the curve of the ramp and drifted on the grass on the left side of the off-ramp. At that point, it lost traction on that side and tipped over and down the embankment. The trailer came to rest on its roof and the cab was crushed, he said.

Most of the bleach jugs that burst stayed in the trailer, Surtell said, as did the bleach that leaked out of them. Clean Harbors envirmental cleanup crew removed the intact jugs and put them in another tractor-trailer, Surtel said, and then clean up the spilled bleach in the truck and removed what soil was affected by the spill. The ramp reopened at around 1 p.m., Surtel said.

-- Journal staff writer John Hill

Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:34 PM | Comment

Hasbro upping safety reviews in wake of toy recalls

The recent spate of toy recalls has prompted Hasbro to “redouble its safety reviews,” according to Wayne S. Charness, senior vice president of corporate communications for the nation’s No. 2 toymaker.

The bulk of Hasbro’s toys are manufactured through contracts with factories in China and Asia. The company still makes its classic board games, puzzles and activity sets at a factory it owns in East Longmeadow, Mass.

The Pawtucket-based company pulls samples from production runs for testing before the goods reach store shelves around the world, he said.

“We conduct regular reviews at a variety of quality control points during manufacturing,” Charness said. “The paints that are used on our products are screened, tested and retested.”

When Hasbro finds a problem with a product, it first gives the manufacturer an opportunity to correct the flaw, he said. The toymaker has “terminated” relationships with manufacturers who fail to meet its quality standards.

The recent recall of the Hasbro’s Easy-Bake Oven was due to a design flaw, Charness noted, and not a manufacturer’s mistake.

Hasbro is considering a redesign of the toy.

“We would certainly hope to have it back on the market,” he said.

-- Journal staff writer Paul Grimaldi

Posted by Andrea Panciera at 3:03 PM | Comment

Group urges donations to finish WWII monument

Journal photo / John Freidah
Former Gov. Bruce Sundlun, center, was among supporters at Memorial Park calling for donations to complete the World War II memorial.

PROVIDENCE -- The committee overseeing the building of the World War II memorial here launched an urgent campaign today to finish the South Main Street monument.

Committee members said they need to raise an additional $600,000 in order to finish the monument by this Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Former Gov. Bruce Sundlun, himself a World War II pilot, called specifically on the Rhode Island banking industry to pick up a majority of the tab.

Sundlun said only one Rhode Island bank, which he did not name, has donated to the memorial, giving $25,000.

Other speakers at the news conference called on regular Rhode Islanders to each donate a few dollars so that the monument could be finished in time.

People can send checks to the The World War II Memorial Commission, 408 Broadway, Providence, R.I., 02909.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Tom Mooney

Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:55 PM | Comment

Sex offender arraigned on rape charge / Photo

Journal photo / John Freidah
Gary P. Lamountain, center, is arraigned in District Court today.

A registered sex offender arrested Sunday after being accused of breaking into a Cumberland woman's house and raping her was arraigned today in Providence District Court.

Gary P. Lamountain, of 37 Miller St., is now scheduled to appear in Superior Court for a bail violation hearing Aug. 28 for a previous offense.

A 27-year-old resident of Ashton Village section of Cumberland went to the police early Sunday morning and alleged that Lamountain -- a man she knew from the neighborhood -- had forced his way into her hom