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« November 2007 | Today | January 2008 » December 31, 20077to7 taking a break for the New Year's holidayWe'll be celebrating New Year's Day tomorrow and not publishing our usual updates to the 7to7 news blog. But that doesn't mean that projo.com is completely off for the day. We'll be offering stories, surveys and more photo uploads, sports blog updates, and our continually updating feeds of national, world and sports news from the Associated Press. On Wednesday, 7to7 will be back on the job at -- 7 a.m. Until then, have a happy and safe new year! Posted by Karen Bordeleau at 7:00 PM | Comment Photo: New Year's at the Parthenon in Greece
Fireworks illuminate the ancient Parthenon atop the Acropolis Hill in Athens, at the start of the new year. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:45 PM | Comment Mostly clear night for revelers, but rain/snow tomorrow
Journal photo/Connie Grosch Isabella Cooke of Providence, 3, poses for a Happy New Year photo at the Convention Center. The free event was sponsored by CVS.
Tomorrow, there's a 90 percent chance of rain/snow, the National Weather Service reports, but little accumulation is expected. A chance of snow is predicted between 9 a.m. and noon, then periods of rain -- which could make things even more interesting for those who intend to participate in one of the "polar bear" events around the state. Tomorrow's high temperature is expected to be near 40 degrees. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:15 PM | Comment Photo: New Year's preparations in Boston
Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:20 PM | Comment Wall Street ends the year with another lossWall Street ended a painful year with another steep loss today as investors glumly anticipated that 2008 would see a continuation of the uncertainty and turbulence of 2007. The Dow Jones industrials fell about 100 points -- the latest in a string of triple-digit moves that became commonplace in the just-ended year, although they still managed to finish 2007 with a respectable increase of more than 6 percent -- not as large as the 16.29-percent increase in 2006, but a better performance than the modest loss in 2005. The Dow's annual gain came even after it posted its worst fourth-quarter drop in 20 years, as investors battled with billion-dollar losses at the world's biggest banks and cooler spending by consumers, whose budgets have been crimped by record-high oil prices and falling home prices. "Considering all that's going on, the market really acted pretty well," said Todd Leone, managing director of equity trading at Cowen & Co. It's tough to say what the primary market driver of 2008 will be, but he said the fourth-quarter earnings season in January should shed some light on how U.S. companies are surviving the recent slowdown and credit crunch. Today, the National Association of Realtors said November existing home sales rose 0.4 percent to an annual rate of 5 million -- the first rise in nine months. However, sales are still 20 percent below where they were a year ago, and the median existing home price has dropped 3.3 percent over the past 12 months. Falling home prices this year have made it hard for struggling homeowners to refinance their mortgages, and the slump in construction activity has hurt homebuilders and other housing-related industries. Investors have some reason to believe that Wall Street in 2008 might be able to put to rest some of its financial troubles. The U.K.'s Observer newspaper reported yesterday that Merrill Lynch & Co. was in talks over the weekend to line up capital from investors in China and the Middle East in exchange for portions of the Wall Street firm. Merrill, like many other financial houses, has seen its portfolio lose billions of dollar in value due to misplaced bets on mortgages. And as Citigroup Inc., UBS AG, Morgan Stanley and Bear Stearns Cos. have done, it has turned to investors in Asia for much-needed capital — Merrill has already gotten $4.4 billion this month from a Singapore fund, which bought a 9.9-percent stake in the U.S. brokerage. According to preliminary calculations, the Dow fell 101.05, or 0.76 percent, to 13,264.82. The blue-chip index remains below its Oct. 9 record high of 14,164.53, at which point it was up more than 13 percent year-to-date. Broader stock indicators also declined, but finished the year higher. The Standard & Poor's 500 index fell 10.13, or 0.69 percent, to 1,468.36, to end 2007 with a gain of more than 3 percent. It had reached a record close of 1,565.15 on Oct. 9. The technology-dominated Nasdaq composite index fell 22.18, or 0.83 percent, to 2,652.28, to finish the year with a nearly 10-percent gain. It was the best performance for the Nasdaq, still well below its tech boom highs, since 2003. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:40 PM | Comment Drummers and fireworks tonight; polar plunges tomorrowYou can have a cold one on New Year's Eve -- just avoid driving -- or you can go for a cold one on New Year's Day -- just avoid hypothermia. In Providence, Bright Night is today and culminates this evening with fireworks, music performances and more. There will be clowns, jugglers, storytellers, and magic acts. And there will be two fireworks displays over the State House, at 5:35 p.m. and midnight. More than 200 performers will strut their stuff around the city. The festival began at noon, goes to midnight and beyond and will include a performance by five drummers put together by Carmine Appice, former drummer for Rod Stewart. They are known as Slamm, and the music will be played on garbage cans, Dixie cups and more. Slamm will perform three times at the Providence Performing Arts Center, at 6, 8 and 10 p.m. A Bright Night wristband, which is $15 today, guarantees admission to one of the shows. A kids’ fair at Rhode Island Convention Center began at 1 p.m. and runs to 5 p.m. Appearing will be storytellers Bill Harley and Valerie Tutson, and Keith Munslow, along with entertainer Marvin Novogrodski. Harley and Munslow also sing. Read more about Bright Night and New Year's events around Rhode Island and in southeastern Massachusetts in Journal arts writer Bill Van Siclen's report. From Newport to Narragansett, from North Kingstown to Block Island, people will gather tomorrow at sea's edge, summon courage and take the Polar Bear plunge -- despite thermometer readings that suggest a flight to Hawaii if you really want a dip. Here's the portfolio of places to plunge tomorrow, many of them to benefit a cause: On Block Island, the Penguin Plunge is at Fred Benson Town Beach, off Corn Neck Road. There will be a beach bonfire to warm participants and spectators. For more information, call (800) 383-2474 or visit www.blockislandchamber.com. In Galilee, Bucks for Scups is at Salty Brine Beach, off Sand Hill Cove. Afterward, 1 to 4:30 p.m., at the Bon Vue Inn, 1230 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, the Dynamic Trio will give a live concert. There’s a recommended donation of $20, a complimentary buffet and free T-shirts. In Jamestown, the Penguin Plunge is at Mackerel Cove Beach, off Beavertail Road. For more information, visit www.specialolympicsri.org. In Little Compton, the Penguin Plunge is at South Shore Beach, off South Shore Road. There’s a spectator fee of $10 per carload, which supports local scholarships. In Matunuck, the ninth annual "Dip for Multiple Sclerosis" will be hosted by the Joyce Family Pub, off Matunuck Beach Road. In Narragansett, the Pier Plunge is at Narragansett Town Beach, off Beach Street. The event is conducted by the Narragansett Lions Club as a fundraiser. Registration is at 10 a.m. The fee is $20. The first 400 participants will receive a T-shirt. For more information, visit www.narragansettri.com/lions. In Newport, the Polar Plunge is at Easton’s Beach, off Memorial Boulevard. For more information, and registration, visit http://users.ids.net/cwwright/. In North Kingstown, the Polar Bear Plunge is at North Kingstown Town Beach off Beach Street. In Westerly, the Freezin’ for a Reason is at the Town Beach, off Atlantic Avenue. It benefits the Westerly Area Rest Meals (WARM) Shelter. Check-in starts at 9:30 a.m. at the Andrea Hotel. There’s a two-mile "waddle" for runners and walkers at 10:30 a.m. -- the entry registration deadline for that has passed. For information, go to www. westerlyconnections.com. Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:45 PM | Comment Central Falls firefighters at scene of blazeCENTRAL FALLS -- Firefighters have been at the scene of a fire on Dexter Street this afternoon. No other information was yet available. Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:25 PM | Comment Photo: New Year's in Iraq
Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:06 PM | Comment Start 2008 with a bang, not a crashIf you’re going to spend the night out on the town celebrating New Year's Eve, and if you’re going to drink, be sure to make arrangements for safe travels that do not involve getting behind the wheel of a car. However, there will not be additional bus or trolley service running tonight. The Rhode Island State Police say they will have an increased presence on the state’s highways, looking to get drunken drivers off the road. “New Year’s Eve is a night that a lot of people are celebrating and drinking and driving,” Capt. Jim Swanberg said on Friday. “Troopers are focusing on that… trying to put on additional patrols and have more of a police presence on the highways.” And another hazard: the roads will be pretty icy tonight. This afternoon's mild weather is melting snow and sleet, but temperatures are expected to drop to the mid 20s overnight, freezing what's left on sidewalks and roads. You can, of course, still partake in the spirit of the celebration without running the risk of a ticket, or worse – just be sure to plan ahead. Make a deal with a sober friend -- New Year's Eve for St. Patrick's Day? -- walk to your party, or arrange a taxi. If, after a long night, you’re not sure if you’re in shape to drive, chances are you’re not. But for an idea as to how a drink may affect your blood-alcohol levels, check out this blood alcohol content calculator. Remember, in Rhode Island, and other states, if your BAC is .08 or greater, you're legally intoxicated. And Happy New Year! -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 3:01 PM | Comment URI men's basketball climbs to No. 23 in AP pollSOUTH KINGSTOWN -- The Rhode Island men's basketball team has scored its second-straight Top 25 ranking in the weekly Associated Press poll. The Rams moved up two spots, from 25th to 23rd in the poll released today. The increase follows back-to-back wins over the weekend over Eastern Michigan and Georgia Southern to improve the Rams' record to 13-1. Rhode Island cracked the rankings last week for the first time since November 1998, and is off to its best start since the 1946-47 season. The Rams play their last non-conference game of the season against Fairleigh Dickinson on Wednesday. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:46 PM | Comment Photo: New Year's in the Philippines
Filipinos watch a fireworks display in a park as they welcome in the new year in Manila. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:30 PM | Comment Photo: Traditional New Year's scuffle in Romania
Riot police try to hold villagers wearing fur masks at bay today before the start of the traditional annual confrontation in Ruginoasa, Romania, 400 kilometers north of Bucharest. Villagers from the hills and valleys engage in fights on the last day of every year in a centuries-old ritual that, according to locals, is meant to purge the evil spirits in their community. During the past few years, however, riot police have tried to keep the villagers from fighting each other because serious injuries often occur during the clashes. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:20 PM | Comment Four charged in Fall River car-vandalism spreeFALL RIVER -- Four people have been arrested for allegedly blasting away at more than 100 parked motor vehicles with a pellet gun Saturday night and early Sunday morning. They each face 148 counts of both charges: discharging a BB gun on a way and vandalizing property, the police said in a news release today. The police say they have found thousands of BB pellets in the suspects' car during a stop. Arrested were Cherie Gagnon, 22, of 412 Dwelly St., Fall River, who drove the car from which pellets were allegedly fired; Kevin Couto, 20, of 196 Earle St., New Bedford, Mass.; Steven Guillette, 28, of 182 Durfee St., New Bedford; and, Jessica Ducary, 18, of 93 Hathaway St., New Bedford. "The out-of-pocket cost to replace these windows to the individual citizens of Fall River will be in the thousands of dollars," the police statement said. The police said a witness described the type of car involved in the shootings, and said four people had been inside. Officer Michael Digangi, who saw the car travel on North Main Street then turn onto Weaver Street, stopped it. The police said one person appeared to put something under a seat during the stop. The police said they saw several silver pellets on the car floor and found pellet guns in the car and thousands of BB pellets in a passenger compartment. -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:00 PM | Comment Update: Suspicious material may be molotov cocktailA mystery substance that was believed to be toxic and sent four people to the hospital may have been an attempt at a molotov cocktail. A sample of a substance came back as “inconclusive,” Charlestown police said, citing findings by the state Department of Environmental Management, which tested the liquid. Michael Sweeney, chief of investigations for the State Fire Marshal office said additional samples have been sent to the University of Rhode Island Crime lab; he expects the results by next week. "We don't even know if we have a crime at this point," Sweeney said, "it appears to be a molotov cocktail." -- With reports from Journal staff writer Maria Armental “The sample that they were able to retrieve from the scene may have been diluted by the rainwater,” Lt. Patrick McMahon said. According to an earlier statement released by the Police Department, officers responded to a call at about 9:40 p.m. last night from a Post Road residence. The caller said she backed over a glass container that was in her driveway and had been exposed to an unknown substance. Patrolman Philip Gingerella and his brother Peter Gingerella, a reserve police officer, “were both overcome by low lying toxic fumes coming from the property,” according to a statement released by the police. The 4700 block of Old Post Road was closed until about midnight while HazMat Teams from the state and the Hope Valley Fire Department joined the state Department of Environmental Management in the investigation. The two officers, the caller, and a friend of hers who had been exposed to the substance were taken to a decontamination area, and then to South County Hospital. In addition to the effects of the substance, they were treated for hypothermia, according to the statement. Because of “the suspicious nature of the glass container and its contents,” the state Fire Marshal’s Office is also assisting the investigation. Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:45 PM | Comment Photo: New Year's in Hong Kong
A pyrotechnic show is set off around the International Finance Centre, Hong Kong's tallest building, at Victoria Habour, to celebrate the New Year, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2008. See New Year's celebrations across the world on the EarthCam Webcams. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:40 AM | Comment Photo: Teen faces drunk driving charges after man struck
Scene on Poppasquash Road in Bristol, overlooking Bristol Harbor, next to Colt State Park where a 17-year-old Barrington boy led police on a chase across the park off the road, through brush, into this seawall and striking a pedestrian before coming to a stop.
Deputy Chief Kurt Blanchard at the state Department of Environmental Management said environmental police saw the suspect drive through the park at about 8:15 Saturday night. The suspect stopped the car near the entrance to the park, but took off as the patrol officer approached, according to Blanchard. At that point, the teenager, who was alone in the car, drove through a field and out onto Poppasquash Road, Blanchard said. At about 8:30 p.m., the environmental police notified the state police. A 51-year-old local man saw the car approaching and jumped over the seawall "just in time," according to State Police Capt. James Swanberg. The car crashed into the seawall, pinning the man. The victim was taken to a local hospital, treated and released. The police found opened and unopened alcohol containers and marijuana in the car, Swanberg said, and, "troopers observed him to be impaired." After administering field sobriety tests, the teenager was arrested. The teenager faces drunken driving charges, as well as charges for driving while in possession of a controlled substance. He also faces several citations from the DEM for being in the park after hours and having alcohol in the park. Since he is 17, the teenager will face the charges in Family Court. “This is yet another sad incident in a string of tragedies involving our youth, particularly those from Barrington. Fortunately, in this instance, the victim has survived," said Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch. “We have been involved and working with law enforcement since the outset and are reviewing the case with the Rhode Island State Police and the DEM to determine the appropriate charges. Once that process has been completed, we will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law,” Lynch said. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:31 AM | Comment Gas hits highest price of the yearThe price of gasoline in Rhode Island has hit its highest price of the year on the final day of year, according to AAA Southern New England. The average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.109 at the self-service pump, up four cents from last week, according to AAA's weekly survey. The previous high was $3.08 on Memorial Day, AAA says. Posted by Jack Perry at 10:17 AM | Comment Exposure to suspicious material sends 4 to hospitalThe police in Charlestown are investigating a suspicious substance that overtook two officers with toxic fumes. According to a statement released by the police department, officers responded to a call at about 9:40 p.m. last night from a Post Road residence. The caller said she backed over a glass container that was in her driveway and had been exposed to an unknown substance. Patrolman Philip Gingerella and his brother Peter Gingerella, a reserve police officer, “were both overcome by low lying toxic fumes coming from the property,” according to a statement released by the police. The two officers, the caller, and a friend of hers who had been exposed to the substance were taken to a decontamination area, and then to South County Hospital. In addition to the effects of the substance, they were treated for hypothermia, according to the statement. The incident is under investigation while municipal authorities await the results of laboratory tests on the substance. Because of “the suspicious nature of the glass container and its contents,” the state Fire Marshal’s Office is also assisting the investigation. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 8:24 AM | Comment Storm could bring record for Boston
BOSTON -- A winter storm bearing down on the region could bring enough snow to break December's snowfall record in the Boston area. Boston only needs one more inch of snow to tie the December record of 27.9 inches set in 1970. A New Year's Eve storm moving through the area late Sunday and early Monday morning could drop several more inches. It's a dramatic shift from last year. Last December, Boston got less than an inch of snow. That was followed by 1 inch in January and less than 5 inches in February. Much of the snow this December piled up during three significant snowfalls between Dec. 13 and Dec. 20. The snow has been an economic boost, with fewer skiers and snowmobilers heading north. Boston Mayor Thomas Menino declared a snow emergency and parking ban effective at midnight tonight ahead of the snowfall followed by frigid temperatures midweek, creating possibly icy conditions. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:02 AM | Comment A wintry mix this morning but clearing laterIf it's involved in a "wintry mix," it's out there. There's rain, snow, sleet, ice ... and it's all on the streets, so if you have a personal day left in 2007, today might be the day to take it. If you have to drive, take it slow. Last Friday, icy roads led to a handful of accidents during the morning commute. Check for accidents at the Transportation Management Center's Web site. And although crews were out salting the roads, Jerome Williams, the director of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation sill warns: "Motorists should still leave extra time and be careful on the roadways during this morning’s commute,” and said crews are still de-icing the roads this morning. As for the rest of the day, the National Weather Service is forecasting cloudy skies until mid-morning when the clouds should clear and the temperature will climb to 40 degrees. Clear skies forecast for Bright Night, tonight, but cold, with temperatures dropping to the mid 20s There's a good chance of snow and rain tomorrow with cloudy skies and a high temperature in the mid 30s. For weather updates, visit projo.com's weather page. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment Today's front pageToday's front page features a look back on the Patriots' record-setting regular season and a story about how invasive species are causing problems in Rhode Island's bodies of water. Download a copy of today's front page in .pdf format. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment December 28, 2007Scooting ahead to weather forecasts for New Year's
Fast-forwarding to New Year's Eve this Monday, the forecast is for a 30 percent chance of snow with a low of 28 degrees that night. For those planning to take a "polar bear" plunge from a Rhode Island beach on New Year's Day, Tuesday's forecast holds a 40 percent chance of snow and a daytime high of 43 degrees. Tonight and tomorrow, it's rain and rain, the National Weather Service forecast says. The weather service report includes a hazardous weather outlook on its Web site for tonight and days leading up to New Year's. Some "brief urban or poor drainage flooding" could happen in places with clogged storm drains, the outlook says. On Sunday night and into Monday morning, "winter weather hazards are likely" around southern New England in the form of snow accumulating or a mix of freezing and "frozen elements." The chance of "significant snowfall" Sunday night and Monday is currently 30 to 40 percent, the weather service says, with potential for six inches of snow or more. Oh, and those water temps? Well, it's about 42 degrees off Newport today, and a tad cooler farther north and a touch warmer along the southern coast. If it stays that way, it'll be just about as cold in the water as out. Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:13 PM | Comment Update: Pension contribution check on hold for ex-clerkThe state's treasurer has put a hold on a $14,000 pension refund check processed for a former Division of Motor Vehicles clerk who is one of two former DMV clerks arrested by state police for allegedly providing false driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. Soraya Santiago is one of two women accused of working with two middlemen who got about $2,500 to $3,000 by each person seeking a Rhode Island license with a fake identity. She had been an employee of the state Division of Motor Vehicles since 2000 before being fired after she was arraigned on 11 counts of conspiracy to commit identity fraud. She then filed for refund of the $14,000 she had made in state pension contributions. Santiago did not work for the state long enough to earn a pension. Treasurer Frank T. Caprio's office today cites a section of state law that says contributions should not be returned or ordered until the employee has satisfied any other judgments involving restitution for losses incurred as the result of a crime. Caprio is also asking for an opinion from state Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch's office to see whether her pension contributions can continue to be held until the court case is resolved, said Peter Kerwin, spokesman for Caprio. Caprio added that "If Ms. Santiago is fined or ordered to make restitution for any losses to the state arising from her activities, it makes no sense for the state to be paying out money to her right now." Lynch said in a statement this evening the charges against Santiago “are serious and are directly related to her state employment. It is certainly appropriate that any funds attributable to that employment be available to compensate the state should fines or restitution be ordered. With the appropriate hold in place, both the state’s and Ms. Santiago’s rights can be protected while this case progresses through the courts." -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney Lynch added that his civil division's lawyers have been coordinating with Caprio’s office on the matter for more than a week. "We look forward to ensuring that our mutual efforts are consistent as my prosecutors proceed with the case against Ms. Santiago in Superior Court," his statement said. The civil division lawyers are exploring the availability of an action through which the pension check monies can be deposited into the court registry, "where they will be distributed only by court order to the parties who are legally entitled to a recovery from or a return of them,” Lynch stated. The attorney general's office's criminal division is screening the case against Santiago. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:45 PM | Comment Despite discounts, gift cards, holiday sales disappoint
Like many shoppers around the country, people at Providence Place mall were taking advantage of deep discounts and closeout sales as they exchanged ill-conceived presents or cashed in gift cards. “It didn’t take long” to spend a $25 gift card at Victoria’s Secret where the goods were half-price, said Lindsay Wilcox, of Smithfield. She and boyfriend Garrett Hogan were taking a break in the mall’s food court after making the rounds of Abercrombie & Fitch, Forever 21 and other stores. Deep discounts are de rigueur this year, particularly at local outlets that won’t live to see the New Year, such as KB Toys and One Thousand Steps, both of which are closing their stores in Providence Place. Closeout prices at those stores are as deep as 75 percent off regular prices. Even retailers on solid ground, such as high-end retailer Nordstrom Inc. took a third off regular-priced men’s apparel, while away from the mall, Target Corp. lowered prices on popular video games to $37 to rid itself of merchandise. The discounting was forced on retailers by Americans who procrastinated about their holiday shopping chores and when they got around to them, didn’t spend as much as initially expected. -- Journal staff writer Paul Grimaldi, with wire reports Sales surged on the day after Thanksgiving, slumped for weeks afterward and then recovered a few days before Christmas, said Michael McNamara, vice president of research and analysis at MasterCard Advisors. Only 50 percent of the respondents said they had completed half or most of their holiday shopping by the time the International Council of Shopping Centers surveyed shoppers from Dec. 13 to Dec. 16. Fuel prices and severe storms influenced spending this season, said McNamara. Gas prices over the holiday period ranged between 30 percent and 35 percent higher than the comparable period last year. “Overall, sales came in just above the lower end of the range we were expecting, maintaining the slower, modest growth we’ve been seeing throughout the year,” McNamara said. The International Council of Shopping Centers, a trade group, said the last-minute shopping rush before Christmas didn’t save the season. It expects November and December same-store receipts to fall below the council’s October forecast of 2.5 percent growth for the two-month period. Even a post-Christmas buying binge would leave that performance the smallest annual sales increase since 2002. "Given the slow performance at the beginning (of December), it appears that the industry is on track for a sales gain that is slightly under our original expectation," said council economist Michael P. Niemira. After the most disappointing holiday sales season in five years, retailers are pinning their hopes on those deep discounts and ubiquitous gift cards to rescue them. Posted by Andrea Panciera at 5:24 PM | Comment Pawtucket investigating report of pedestrian struckPAWTUCKET -- Responders are investigating a report of a pedestrian struck in the area of the Benefit Street-Cottage Street intersection, according to police. No other details were yet available. Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:00 PM | Comment License suspension sought for SNM Liquors in ProvidencePROVIDENCE -- Assistant City Solicitor Steven Catalano today asked the Providence Board of Licenses to impose a two-week suspension of the liquor license of SNM Liquors of 187 Douglas Ave. for selling alcohol to a minor in a Nov. 17 police sting operation. The board took no immediate action. Vice Chairman Gordon D. Fox said a decision will be made in 10 days. During the hearing, Providence Det. Joseph Amoroso testified that Providence police were contacted by the Barrington police, who told Providence they had information that the driver of a motor vehicle involved in a fatal accident had consumed alcohol bought at SNM Liquors. As a result, Amoroso testified, Providence police included SNM Liquors on a list of liquor stores to be tested to see if they would sell to minors. The police sent Luis Robles, a 20-year-old member of the Providence Police Explorer program, into SNM Liquors to buy a Bud Light 6-pack. Robles testified that he went in and bought alcohol from Shawn Merilan, the store owner who was working the counter. He said Merilan sold him the 6-pack without questioning his age or asking him to sign the minor book -- where a customer fills out his/her personal information if the person's claim of being of age is doubted, regardless of the ID information shown. Merilan testified that he did not remember the sale but that he might have sold it to Robles because Robles resembles one of his other customers who Merilan knows is of legal age. Earlier this month, Merilan pleaded no contest in District Court to two violations of selling alcohol to minors and was fined $250 as a result of the police sting operation. He was one of several liquor store owners summoned to court as part of that sting. The offense that Merilan and store workers faced was a violation of a criminal statute. A record of that conviction was entered into the evidence today. -- With reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith Barrington police told Providence police that Michael J. Silveira, 17, of Barrington, who was at the wheel in the car crash that killed his friend Jonathan C. Converse, 16, of Barrington, was the one who consumed alcohol allegedly was bought at SNM Liquors. Last week, Silveira entered a plea agreement and was sentenced to serve two years in the state Training School for driving while intoxicated and slamming into a tree. Neither Merilan nor SNM Liquors has been criminally charged in connection with the liquor that Silveira ultimately allegedly drank. Today's hearing focused on the Providence police sting operation, not the Barrington investigation. But Amoroso said after the hearing that the transaction may be the subject of a Providence police licensing investigation of SNM liquors, which is a civil, not criminal, matter. Dan Converse, the father of Jonathan Converse, attended today's hearing as did Barrington police Det. Josh Birrell. After the hearing, Converse said that he attended to educate himself about the civil and criminal legal process involving minors. He said he finds that the law in the criminal domain provides "a slap on the wrist" for selling to minors. "You can't downplay the importance of supplying alcohol to minors," Converse said. Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:58 PM | Comment R.I. commercial fishermen get 2-week license extensionDue to a "processing delay," commercial fishermen in Rhode Island who have applied for but not yet received 2008 licenses may continue using their 2007 licenses through Jan. 15, the state Department of Environmental Management announced today. During the two-week extension, commercial fishermen must have their 2007 licenses on them while fishing. Application forms for 2008 licenses were mailed in mid-December, later than in past years, the DEM said in a news release. "The resultant influx of applications at one time has created a backlog, which staff expects to clear within a week to 10 days." Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:50 PM | Comment Make it to the New Year: Drive safe and soberIf you’re going to spend Monday celebrating New Year's Eve, and if you’re going to drink, be sure to make arrangements for safe travels that do not involve getting behind the wheel of a car. Rhode Island State Police say they will have an increased presence on the state’s highways, looking to get drunk drivers off the road. “New Year’s Eve is a night that a lot of people are celebrating and drinking and driving,” Capt. Jim Swanberg said. “Troopers are focusing on that… trying to put on additional patrols and have more of a police presence on the highways.” You can, of course, still partake in the spirit of the celebration without running the risk of a ticket, or worse – just plan ahead. Make a deal with a sober friend, walk to your party, or arrange a taxi. If, after a long night, you’re not sure if you’re in shape to drive, chances are you’re not. But for an idea as to how a drink may affect your blood alcohol levels, check out this blood alcohol content calculator. Remember, in Rhode Island, and other states, if your BAC is .08 or greater, you're legally intoxicated. Oh, and Happy New Year! -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 3:30 PM | Comment Traffic alert: Rte. 195W center lane closed at Rte. 95PROVIDENCE -- An accident has closed the center lane of Route 195 west where it meets Route 95 at this hour, the state Transportation Management Center advised at 3:18 p.m. Check the TMC's site for Web cam views and jam factors, as well as an update on this alert. Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:27 PM | Comment Court limits 'ex parte' talks with DHS hearing officersDepartment of Human Services hearing officers may not communicate off the record with the state agency’s staff about contested facts and opinions unless the other side has a chance to respond, the state Supreme Court ruled this week. The issue arose when David Arnold and Pauline Belanger applied to the Department of Human Services for medical assistance in 2005, and the agency’s Medical Assistance Review Team determined they were not disabled and not eligible for Medicaid. Arnold, of Central Falls, and Belanger, of Chepachet, took their cases to Superior Court, claiming the department’s hearing officers had a policy and practice of having off-the-record communications about cases without notifying the other side. The agency contended that such communication was rare and did not violate the Administrative Procedures Act. Superior Court Judge Stephen J. Fortunato Jr., who has since retired, disagreed, ordering hearing officers to avoid “ex parte” communication with agency staff about contested facts and opinions. The agency appealed. And in a 13-page opinion written by Chief Justice Frank J. Williams, the Supreme Court backed Fortunato’s ruling, saying, “In short, no litigious facts should reach the decision-maker off the record in an administrative hearing.” -- Jounral staff writer Edward Fitzpatrick Unless the other side is given a chance to respond and cross-examine, Department of Human Services hearing officers may not communicate with anyone, including agency staff, about contested facts such as test results, diagnostic information, opinions on the severity of medical conditions or an overall assessment of an applicant’s disabilities, the high court said. But hearing officers may communicate with agency staff about hearing schedules, procedural matters and general information about how hearings are conducted, and as long as they don’t discuss the contested facts of a case, hearing officers may discuss general policy matters and consult state and federal regulations, the court said. “In other words, DHS hearing officers are required to guard against the inherent unfairness of secret evidence,” Williams wrote, “but they are not required to isolate themselves from the agency.” Posted by Mike McKinney at 3:12 PM | Comment UPDATE: Trial schedule unchanged for smoke-shop casePROVIDENCE -- Seven Narragansett Indians accused of scuffling with State Police who raided a tribal smoke shop will return to court Jan. 2., but the trial's start date has not been changed. The Jan. 2 meeting will be for pre-trial hearing. "We would anticipate that the defendants would move to change it," Michael Healey, spokesman for Attorney General Patrick Lynch said, "but as of now, that has not happened." Lawyers met today with Superior Court Judge Susan McGuirl to discuss the trial schedule. Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas and six other defendants are charged with misdemeanor crimes ranging from assault to disorderly conduct. They were arrested four years ago when State Police raided a tribal smoke shop that was not collecting state taxes. A federal appeals court later ruled the shop was operating illegally. Jury selection is now scheduled for Monday, Jan. 7. But defense lawyers have said they will ask for a delay so they can prepare for trial. -- with reports from Journal staff writer Randall Edgar and the Associated Press Posted by Andrea Panciera at 2:00 PM | Comment New year's resolution: What to do with $43,831?Someone has a new year's resolution that shouldn't be too hard to keep: What to do with $43,831? A player on the Wild Money game won the drawing last night but has not yet come forward, Rhode Island Lottery said today. The winning ticket was bought at the 7-Eleven at 3844 Post Road, Warwick. Drawings for the Wild Money game take place on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on Channel 12 WPRI at 7:29pm. Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:10 PM | Comment DA: Driver in hit-and-run death was text messagingTAUNTON, Mass. -- Authorities say the New Bedford man charged in the hit-and-run death of a 13-year-old Taunton boy lost control of his SUV while text messaging on his cell phone. A Bristol County prosecutor said in Taunton District Court on Friday that Craig Bigos told police he thought he hit a mailbox, and didn't realize he hit Earman Machado until the next day. Bail was set at $5,000 for Bigos, who pleaded not guilty to charges including motor vehicle homicide, leaving the scene of an accident with death resulting and driving without a license. Police say Machado was riding his bicycle just after midnight Thursday when he was struck and killed by the 1995 Ford Explorer. Bigos turned himself in about 14 hours later. Defense attorney Daniel Igo says the 31-year-old Bigos has a clean criminal record. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:09 PM | Comment Judge: Painting taken by Nazis belongs to Jewish dealerPROVIDENCE -- A painting auctioned by Nazi authorities and now held by an elderly German baroness rightfully belongs to the estate of a late Jewish art dealer who was forced to sell it, a federal judge has ruled. In a decision made yesterday, U.S. District Court Judge Mary Lisi ordered Maria-Luise Bissonnette to turn over "Girl from the Sabiner Mountains" to representatives of the estate of Max Stern, a prominent Canadian art dealer who died in 1987. Although outside experts have not authenticated the painting, both sides claim it is a work of Franz Xaver Winterhalter, a 19th-century artist made famous for his portraits of European nobility. "It's a very significant ruling," said Thomas Kline, a lawyer for Stern's estate. "It vindicates Dr. Stern's effort to try and hold onto his collection during the Nazi era, (and) to seek its return afterward." Kline said he intends to arrange for the return of the painting, which is now in a German warehouse. Marta Garrett, a lawyer for Bissonnette, would not comment on the ruling or say whether Bissonnette plans an appeal. -- The Associated Press Stern inherited his family's Dusseldorf art gallery in 1934. Three years later, Nazi authorities forced him to auction off its contents because Stern was a Jew. Bissonnette's stepfather, Karl Wilharm, a doctor and Nazi party member, purchased the painting at the auction. Bissonnette eventually resettled in Rhode Island and inherited the painting from her parents. Stern fled Germany after the auction, resettled in Montreal and tried to recover his lost artwork. He never tracked down "Girl from the Sabiner Mountains" before dying in 1987. Stern left his estate to three universities: McGill and Concordia universities in Montreal and Hebrew University in Jerusalem. The schools have continued Stern's work in trying to find his paintings, several of which remain missing. Stern's estate found the painting after Bissonnette attempted to auction it in 2005. They first tried to negotiate its return but when talks broke down, lawyers for the estate filed a lawsuit to get it back. Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:08 PM | Comment Update: Boil-water advisory lifted in WoonsocketThe boil-water warning for northeast Woonsocket has been lifted, after tests showed no contamination in the city’s public water system, Woonsocket Water Supt. Carol Lariviere said this morning. “It’s great, it’s definitely fantastic,” Lariviere said. The boil-water warning had been issued Wednesday after a 12-inch water main on Diamond Hill Road broke, reducing water pressure and resulting in discolored water in some parts of the system along Elder Ballou Meeting House Road, Bound Raod and Diamond Hill Road. It also drained the 1.2 million-gallon Diamond Hill Road water tank. No evidence of contamination was found either before or after the break was fixed, but city and state health officials issued the warning to about 3,000 residents in the affected area as a precaution. Water service in the rest of the city was never affected, Lariviere said. The line was repaired Wednesday night and pumps are being used to maintain pressure while they water tank is gradually refilled. Lariviere said the water tank, which towers over Diamond Hill Road near the Cumberland line, is being disinfected and gradually refilled. That process should be finished by the end of next week, she said. -- Journal staff writer John Hill Posted by Jack Perry at 11:49 AM | Comment 2 die after consuming products from Mass. dairyBOSTON — State health officials warned consumers not to drink milk products from a central Massachusetts dairy, after the deaths of two elderly men who consumed products contaminated with listeria bacteria. Whittier Farms has suspended operations and distribution until a source of contamination is identified, said Dr. Alfred DeMaria, the state director of communicable disease control. The Department of Public Health identified a total of four cases of listeriosis during the past six months. Two of the victims, a 78-year-old man and a 75-year-old man, died from the infection in Worcester County in June and October. A pregnant, 34-year-old woman recovered from the illness but her pregnancy ended in a miscarriage, DeMaria said. He said DNA fingerprinting showed that the bacteria causing the infections came from a common source. Samples collected showed product contamination. The bacteria can cause listeriosis, a rare but potentially fatal disease that can kill babies and people with weakened immune systems and cause miscarriages in pregnant women. Symptoms include fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. -- The Associated Press None of the victims were identified for privacy reasons. Officials at Whittier Farms did not immediately return calls seeking comment. According to its Web site, the 500-acre farm in Sutton is operated by the fourth and fifth generations of the Whittier Family. The dairy has a processing plant in Shrewsbury and also operates two retail stores. A message left on an answering machine at the Sutton store said the store was presently closed and that information to date was “inconclusive.” The message said the owners would be addressing the issue as soon as possible. The bulk of the firm’s distribution is home delivery to customers in the greater Worcester-area. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:14 AM | Comment Photos: Two accidents on Route 295
Posted by Jack Perry at 8:51 AM | Comment Slick roads lead to accidentsA multi-vehicle accident has the right shoulder of Route 10 closed in Cranston. The accident, on the northbound side of Route 10 near Route 95, is just one of a handful of accidents from East Greenwich to East Providence that has plagued traffic this morning. Check traffic conditions on the Transportation Management Center's Web site. Yesterday's rain froze overnight when temperatures dropped to below freezing levels, leaving slick roads despite the mild morning temperatures. Conditions should improve. The sun is making its appearance and temperatures are expected to reach the mid 40s as the day goes on. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:34 AM | Comment Mayor to discuss plan for Cranston concrete plant
Cranston Mayor Michael Napolitano is expected to announce a plan today to buy out the Cullion Concrete batching plant that is being built off Pontiac Avenue. The plant, which is half-built, has drawn criticism from residents, and spawned "Cranston Citizens for Responsible Zoning and Development,"a group that opposes the plant's completion. The state Supreme Court in October ordered Cullion and the city to participate in mediation; since then, both sides have remained silent about negotiations. Napolitano said in a statement that the controversy has been resolved. He plans to discuss the outcome of mediation at a press conference today at noon in Cranston City Hall. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:16 AM | Comment Newport's new representative will be sworn in todayRep.-elect Steven J. Coaty will be sworn into his new position this evening. The Republican will serve the remaining year of the former Rep. Paul W. Crowley’s term, representing Newport. Crowley, a Democrat, died on Sept. 24 after suffering from melanoma. Coaty will be sworn into the District 75 House seat at 5 p.m. at a ceremony in the House of Representatives Chamber in the State House. Later in the evening, Speaker William J. Murphy will host a reception for Coaty in the House Lounge. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:02 AM | Comment Watch for icy roads this morning, warming laterBe extra careful on the roads this morning. Moisture from yesterday's rain and overnight fog froze thanks to the freezing overnight temperatures and has left a slick surface on many roads. But conditions should get better. The National Weather Service is forecasting a high temperature near 45 degrees with clear, sunny skies. Expect some rain late tonight and early tomorrow morning with low temperatures in the mid-30s. Rain should continue into mid-morning Saturday, getting heavy at times. The temperature should climb towards 50 degrees with a south wind up to 13 mph. Saturday night the skies should clear and the temperature should drop to about 27 degrees with a west wind of about 9 mph. Sunday's looking partly sunny with a high temperature in the low 40s and a mild, west wind. Snow may return Sunday night, after 9 p.m. as the temperature dips to about 27 degrees. We may have to deal with some snow Monday morning, also, with a forecast high of 34 degrees. For weather updates throughout the weekend, visit projo.com's weather page. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment Today's front pageToday's front page features coverage of the assassination of Pakistani opposition leader and former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, including an interview with U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy, who is in Pakistan and was planning to meet with Bhutto before she was killed. Download a copy of today's front page in .pdf format. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment December 27, 2007Not too late -- or early -- to plan New Year's Eve diningWhat to do on New Year's Eve is a dilemma for many of us. But if you're thinking of dining out, you know a reservation is a good place to start. And the ball is dropping -- it's only four days until Monday night. Next step? If you're in a hurry, browse our list of capsule dining reviews published by The Journal this year. Got more time? Then go back and read the full reviews as well as sample menus for several years back.
Posted by Andrea Panciera at 6:44 PM | Comment An end to concrete-plant controversy in Cranston?CRANSTON -- Mayor Michael T. Napolitano is scheduled to announce tomorrow that the city has reached an agreement, in principle, to buy out a controversial, half-built concrete plant in the Eden Park section of the city, according to administration officials. The controversy over the plant has roiled city politics for over a year. Neighborhood opponents have staged press conferences, planted red "Stop the Concrete Plant" signs in dozens of front lawns and pressured politicians to fight Cullion's plans. -- Journal staff writer David Scharfenberg Posted by Andrea Panciera at 5:30 PM | Comment Update: Rep. Kennedy was on way to dinner with BhuttoRep. Patrick J. Kennedy was in Pakistan today with a congressional delegation when former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated at a campaign rally in Rawalpindi. The Rhode Island Democrat was leaving his hotel room to go to Bhutto’s house in Islamabad for dinner when someone in his party told him to go back to his room and watch the televised news reports of the attack on Bhutto. “The country now has obviously become engulfed in flames,” Kennedy said this afternoon from Islamabad, in a telephone interview with The Providence Journal. “It’s clearly an enormous setback for a nation that was seeking to stabilize itself after a very tumultuous time.” Kennedy said Pakistanis took the death of the opposition leader as a personal loss. “It’s clear from what’s going on now here in Pakistan that this has definitely touched a deep cord in this society because she was such a symbol of hope for a new democracy. She kind of gave promise to people that there was a new day coming,” he said. “It was more than just her life being taken, but hope for millions of Pakistanis.” Kennedy said that, after watching TV reports, he received word through the U.S. Embassy that Bhutto’s wounds were superficial and that the Pakistani media were exaggerating the severity of the attack. After learning Bhutto had died, Kennedy and U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., went to the headquarters of her political party, where they laid a wreath and expressed the condolences of the United States. They chose the party headquarters over her home because of the protesters that were gathering outside her residence. “There was no way we were going to get close to her house,” he said. Kennedy had met earlier in the day with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf and, separately, with Afghan President Hamid Karzai.
Posted by Andrea Panciera at 3:54 PM | Comment Update: 3 teens arrested in Fall River shootingThe Fall River police have arrested three city teenagers in connection with a shooting last night that left a 33-year old local man seriously wounded. The police have arrested Sunny Mao, 18, of 1454 Pleasant St.; Chantra Say, 17, of 227 Stevens St., Apt. 304; and a 16-year old boy, whom the police are not identifying because he’s a juvenile, according to police Sgt. Paul Bernier. The teens were charged with armed assault with intent to murder, discharging a firearm, assault with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy, Bernier said. The victim, whom the police are not identifying, was shot at about 11 p.m. outside 1640 Pleasant St., the police said. He suffered a stomach wound and was initially taken to Charlton Memorial Hospital, in Fall River, before being transferred to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was in stable condition this afternoon. The police have not yet been able to speak with the victim because of his medical condition. The three teenagers fled the scene and were spotted nearby by Sgt. Gil Costa, who followed the three to a Pleasant Street address where they were arrested after the police searched the building. _ -- Journal writer Meaghan Wims Posted by Karen Bordeleau at 3:51 PM | Comment Harwood asks pension board to consider Corrente's wife
PROVIDENCE -- In a hearing that lasted less than a half hour, lawyer John B. Harwood cited four reasons that his client should have his pension reinstated, even though former city director of administration Frank E. Corrente was caught accepting bribes on videotape and eventually convicted in a federal corruption probe. Corrente, former Mayor Vincent A. Cianci Jr.’s top lieutenant, is fighting to have his $70,576-a-year pension reinstated after the Providence Retirement Board suspended the payments and suggested ending them entirely. Harwood, the former speaker of the Rhode Island House, argued today that: - Corrente and his wife, Thelma Corrente, deserve to be compensated for the illegal suspension; - The board should consider Thelma Corrente – who, as a long-time employee of the School Department, draws her own state pension – because she was not implicated in the federal Plunder Dome investigation of City Hall; - Even if Corrente loses credit for two or three years of tainted service, he should get a pension based on his years of honorable service. After the hearing, Harwood reiterated the argument, saying, “Twenty-six out of twenty-nine (years) is a good record.” Facing pressure from allegations of sexual harassment and misspent campaign funds, Harwood stepped down as speaker of the House in 2002 after serving a decade in the post. Larry J. Ritchie, a law professor at the Roger Williams University School of Law, presided over the hearing today. He will use today’s testimony, along with other evidence to produce a report and recommendation to the Pension Board. He expects to have the report completed within a month. Corrente, now 79, has finished his prison sentence and is living at home in Cranston. Your Turn: Should Corrente have his pension reinstated? -- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 3:39 PM | Comment Raptakis sponsors R.I. air passenger bill of rightsSitting in an airplane for three hours while it sits on the tarmac can be a drag, to say the least. But when there’s no air circulation, the toilets begin to overflow, and there’s nothing to drink, that, says state Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis, is "unfair and irresponsible." The senator, who represents Coventry, East Greenwich, West Warwick and Warwick, home of T. F. Green Airport, is introducing an "air passenger bill of rights," which would require airlines to provide a certain level of service after being on the tarmac for more than three hours. The proposal is modeled after a similar law in New York which was recently upheld by a District Court who ruled that states could regulate such conditions because they concerned public health issues, not service issues. Click below to read about the law's specific requirements. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson The law would require that after spending three hours on the tarmac, airlines would provide: Drinking water, snacks and other refreshments. Waste removal service for holding tanks for on-board restrooms. Electric generation service to provide fresh air and lights. “Air travelers are being asked to deal with more and more delays, while facing cutbacks in the kind of services and conveniences which airlines once provided,” Raptakis said in a statement. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:34 PM | Comment Taunton, Mass., police seek driver in fatal hit-and-runTAUNTON, Mass. -- Police are asking for help from the public in finding the hit-and-run driver who struck and killed a 13-year-old boy in Taunton. The Bristol District Attorney's office says the victim was hit shortly after midnight today by a vehicle that veered off Poole Street. The boy - a Taunton resident whose name hasn't been released - was pronounced dead at Morton Hospital. Investigators believe the vehicle that fled the scene was a 1995-1997 model Ford Explorer, red or maroon in color. It most likely has damage to the front passenger side. -- The Associated Press Posted by Jack Perry at 1:02 PM | Comment Weight restriction being added to Ten Mile River BridgesThe Department of Transportation is restricting the weight on two more bridges in the state while repairs begin and the state discusses options for replacement. Beginning tomorrow, the Ten Mile River Bridges in East Providence will be restricted to vehicles weighing less than 7 tons. Heavier vehicles will have to find alternate routes. “As we undertake our immediate repairs, we are utilizing detours that the City prefers and apologize in advance for any inconveniences this may cause area residents and businesses,” RIDOT director Jerome F. Williams said in a statement. “We expect that our repairs to be completed in the next month will allow the posting to be increased to 19 tons.” Both bridges have two 11-foot travel lanes, a 10-foot wide shoulder and two sidewalks which stay open during the construction. According to a press release, construction could start on the bridge by spring 2009 and should cost about $2.5 million. The DOT last month imposed a 22-ton weight restriction on the Pawtucket River Bridge on Route 95 in Pawtucket. Extra: See the weight limits posted on bridges across Rhode Island, including the new restriction for the Ten Mile River Bridges. (The numbers under the axle columns refer to weight by ton.) Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:52 PM | Comment Lawyer: Drop murder charge in Barrington boating deathA lawyer this morning argued that the indictment charging Ryan Greenberg with second-degree murder should be dismissed because the Barrington teenager was indicted after the legislature had repealed a law treating 17-year-olds as adults for criminal purposes. But state prosecutors disagreed, saying the alleged crime occurred and the criminal complaint was issued during the 4 ½-month period when all 17-year-olds were sent to adult court rather than Family Court. The debate is part of a larger argument about whether the state has violated the rights of the 500 “gap kids” arrested during that period. Superior Court Judge Daniel A. Procaccini said he will try to issue a decision by mid-January that will apply to “gap kids” throughout the state. Greenberg, the state’s most high-profile “gap kid,” had been charged with one felony count of operating a boat to endanger, death resulting, but earlier this month a grand jury indicted him on a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the July 17 boating death of his Barrington High School classmate Patrick Murphy. Greenberg was not in court when his lawyer, William C. Dimitri, argued that Greenberg should be transferred to Family Court. Dimitri noted that while the legislature enacted the law treating 17-year-olds as adults on July 1 and repealed it on Nov. 7, Greenberg was not indicted until Dec. 3. So, Dimitri said in his motion, “there was nothing pending against this defendant in a court of competent jurisdiction at the time of the legislature’s repeal.” But Special Assistant Attorney General Christian F. Capizzo said the legislature chose not to make the repeal retroactive, and Superior Court has proper jurisdiction over Greenberg. “The state proceeded under the law as it existed at that time,” he said. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:38 PM | Comment Update: R.I.'s population loss worst in nationWASHINGTON -- Rhode Island is losing residents at a faster clip than any other state in the nation. New population estimates being released today by the Census Bureau show that in the year ending July 1, the smallest state's population declined by four-tenths of percent. Rhode Island lost just over 3,800 people to end up with an estimated 1.058 million residents. According to the Census figures, the only other state to lose population was Michigan, which saw a decline of three-tenths of a point. Nevada is the nation’s fastest-growing state, with a population increase of 2.9 percent between, according to the Census Bureau's estimates. Arizona, which was the fastest-growing state between 2005 and 2006, slipped to second place. This is the first in a series of population estimates that will be released through the summer of 2008, according to the Census Bureau. Your turn: Have you left or are you planning to leave Rhode Island. Why or why not? -- The Associated Press with projo.com reports Posted by Jack Perry at 12:28 PM | Comment NTSB: Plane 'porpoised' after landing at Green AirportThe US Airways Express flight that went off the runway at T.F. Green Airport this month did so after it touched down hard and "porpoised," according to a preliminary synopsis issued byThe National Transportation Safety Board. The brief report, now posted in the NTSB's accident query database, is labeled as preliminary information and subject to change. The synopsis describes the incident, in which none of the 31 passengers and 3 crew members aboard the Bombardier CRJ-200, this way: "Initial information indicates that the airplane touched down hard at approximately 1000-1200 feet from the threshold of runway 5. The airplane porpoised after touchdown and exited the left side of the runway. "Fiberglass parts consistent with the main gear door were found nearby broken runway edge lights about 2500 feet from the threshold. At approximately 3000 feet from the threshold the left main gear entered the snow and grass area, and by 3200 feet, both main gear had exited the runway. "The airplane came to a stop on a magnetic heading of approximately 320 degrees at about 3700 feet from the threshold. Runway 5 is 7,166 feet long by 150 feet wide, and is a CAT II instrument runway. "The left main gear collapsed, the drag brace or trunnion was seen fractured, and the wheel punctured the flap and left upper wing skin. Wing tip damage was also observed. There was no fuel spill." Porpoising occurs when a plane cannot maintain a level flight path and goes up and down like a porpoise diving in and out of the water. When striking the ground, it can mean an uncontrolled, or series of uncontrolled, bounces. Passengers had told The Providence Journal that the plane seemed to hit the runway quickly and hard after coming out of thick clouds at dusk on Sunday, Dec. 16. Brown University Prof. Thom Jones, who watched from his seat in front of the left wing, said, “I can’t tell you the force when we hit the ground. It felt like we were in an elevator and we dropped four floors.” Posted by Andrea Panciera at 12:02 PM | Comment Woonsocket boil water advisory continues/ Photo
Woonsocket water department officials said they hope to know by late tomorrow morning if they can lift the boil-water advisory they issued for residents in the northeast corner of the city after a water main break yesterday. Water Supt. Carol Lariviere said the work of fixing the 12-inch water main underneath Diamond Hill Road went fairly smoothly last night, with actual construction work done by 10 p.m. It took department crews about five or six hours more to bleed air out of the pipe network. “By 2 or 3 a.m. a majority of people did have some kind of water,” she said. Estimates are around 3,000 people are affected by the break, which knocked out water service altogether for some and caused discolored water for others. Residents in northeast Woonsocket are still being advised to continue boiling water before drinking it or using it for cooking. Lariviere said it takes about 24 hours for the needed tests to be completed, so results from samples taken after the work was done this morning won’t be known until around 11 a.m. or so Friday.
So far, water tests have come up negative for any harmful bacteria, but bottled water is still available at Fire Station No. 4 at 806 Mendon Road. Even though the test have been negative so far, city officials are recommending anyone in the affected area vigorously boil for at least a minute any water they plan to drink or use in cooking. The affected area is bounded by Elder Ballou Meeting House Road in the south, from McArthur Road east to Bound Road on the Cumberland line. Water lines on Bound Road north to the Bellingham town line were also affected, as well as the pipe network along Diamond Hill Road from the Cumberland line west to Mendon Road. Pinecrest Road in Woonsocket and Pine Swamp Road and Stephen’s Way in Cumberland were also suffering from the break. Restaurants in the area were closed. The rest of the city’s water system is unaffected by the break, Lariviere said, and water there can be used without any special precautions. See the state health Department’s Web site for a map of the area involved. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:57 AM | Comment Two teens arrested in Fall River shootingFALL RIVER – The Fall River police have arrested two teenagers in connection with a shooting last night that left a man seriously wounded. The police have arrested a 16-year old boy, whose name isn’t being released because he’s a juvenile, and an 18-year old man, whose name the police are also withholding this morning, on charges of armed assault with intent to murder, discharging a firearm, assault with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy, according to police Lt. Paul Bernier. The victim, whom police are also not identifying, was shot at about 11 p.m. outside 1640 Pleasant St., the police said. He suffered a stomach wound and was taken to an area hospital. No further information is available at this time. -- Journal staff writer Meaghan Wims Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:54 AM | Comment Relatives of victims of drunken driving to join patrolsLINCOLN -- Relatives of victims of drunken driving crashes will accompany the police this weekend on special DUI patrols. The patrols, with officers from 15 different law-enforcement agencies, will start today and continue through the weekend. They will target drunken drivers. Gabrielle Abbate, executive director of the state branch of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, says each patrol will be named for a person who was killed or seriously injured in a drunken driving crash. -- The Associated Press Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:20 AM | Comment Former Cape Cod Times publisher dies at 95BOURNE, Mass. -- Daniel Bradley Gaylord, who sold the first advertisements for the Cape Cod Times and later became the paper’s publisher, has died. He was 95. Gaylord died on Dec. 25 at Falmouth Hospital, his wife, Judith, told the Times. She said her husband suffered a fall in September and was recently receiving rehabilitation. Gaylord was the last surviving member of the team the started the paper, which was first published in a garage in Barnstable in 1936. The paper was called the Cape Cod Standard-Times until 1975. Gaylord graduated from the University of Virginia in 1935 and learned the newspaper business from his uncle, who was president and publisher of the Daily Oklahoman and the Oklahoma City Times. The Cape Cod Standard Times’ first owners, E. Anthony & Sons Inc., hired Gaylord as one of two advertising representatives. Twelve years later, he became the paper’s publisher. In 1953, he became general business manager of the company, which included the New Bedford Standard-Times, two radio stations and the launch of a New Bedford television station. Gaylord retired in 1967. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 11:09 AM | Comment Cranston Mayor to discuss concrete plantCranston Mayor Michael Napolitano has scheduled a press conference for tomorrow to discuss the controversy surrounding the Cullion Concrete batching plant off Pontiac Avenue. The plant, which is half-built, has drawn criticism from residents, and spawned "Cranston Citizens for Responsible Zoning and Development,"a group that opposes the plant's completion. The state Supreme Court in October ordered Cullion and the city to participate in mediation; since then, both sides have remained silent about negotiations. Napolitano said in a statement that the controversy has been resolved. He plans to discuss the outcome of mediation at a press conference tomorrow at noon in Cranston City Hall. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 9:35 AM | Comment Corrente returns to City Hall to argue for pensionPROVIDENCE — A former state official who was caught on FBI videotapes taking bribes during a federal corruption investigation is fighting to reinstate his $70,000 pension. Frank E. Corrente, 79, was former Mayor Vicent A. Cianci Jr.’s top lieutenant. His pension, city-paid medical and dental insurance were suspended when he was convicted in Operation Plunder Dome. The Providence Retirement Board will hold a hearing to give Corrente a chance to explain why he should be able to keep some or the entire pension. Read more in today's Providence Journal -- Journal staff writer Gregory Smith Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:16 AM | Comment This morning's rain could turn to sleet, snowDon't let the rain fool you -- it may not be snow, but it's still cold! Some of the rain may actually turn to sleet before noon, and then even snow. The National Weather Service is forecasting a high temperature of 37 degrees with a northwest wind up to 14 mph. Tonight more precipitation before 9 p.m., then clearing skies as the temperature drops to about 29 degrees. Friday looks nicer, with a high temperature near 44 degrees and a mild, northwest wind. For more weather and regular updates, see projo.com/weather. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment Today's front pageToday's front page features good news for Patriots' fans. They'll be able to watch the Patriots' attempt to finish the regular season without a loss. Saturday night's game against the New York Giants was initially available only to subscribers of the NFL Network in Rhode Island and many other parts of New England, but the league gave in to pressure and will allow NBC and CBS to also carry game. Download a copy of today's front page in .pdf format. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment December 26, 2007Tonight: Celtics on tap on West CoastWith all the hoopla surrounding the Patriots-Giant game, let's not forget another winning New England team -- the Boston Celtics. They're playing on the West Coast tonight against Sacramento. Which means -- you guessed it -- a late game, starting at 10 p.m. our time. Look for the latest score and other stats on projo.com's Celtics page. Posted by Andrea Panciera at 6:55 PM | Comment Update: 8 candidates to appear on R.I. primary ballotPROVIDENCE — Republicans Mitt Romney, John McCain, Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul and Democrat Christopher Dodd have submitted enough validated signatures to appear on Rhode Island’s March 4 primary ballots, according to local boards of canvassers. They join Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton and Republican Rudy Giuliani, who had already amassed more than the required 1,000 validated signatures, the secretary of state’s office reported this afternoon. Other candidates might appear on the primary ballot. While the deadline for signatures was 4 p.m. today, local boards have until Jan. 10 to validate signatures, and an unknown number of signatures have been submitted without being validated yet, said Chris Barnett, spokesman for Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis. “This tells us who is in,” Barnett said. “But it doesn’t tell us who is out. It does give people an idea of who is close.”
Democrat John Edwards was within striking distance with 942 validated signatures, while Democrat Dennis Kucinich had 759, Republican Fred Thompson had 724, Republican Duncan Hunter had 477, Republican Hugh Cort had 475, Republican Alan Keyes had 460, Republican Tom Tancredo had 392, Democrat Joseph Biden had 238 and Democrat Bill Richardson had 116. Democrat Mike Gravel was among those with no validated signatures. Barnett explained that local boards of canvassers validate signatures by checking to see if they are the names of eligible voters in their communities. Clinton was leading the way with 2,167 validated signatures; Obama had 1,952; Giuliani, 1,312; Romney, 1,257; Paul, 1,233; McCain, 1,224; Huckabee, 1,165; and Dodd, 1,058. Barnett said the final step is for the secretary of state’s office to certify signatures by checking them against a statewide database of eligible voters. So far, only Obama has more than the required 1,000 certified signatures. The totals for certified signatures include 1,111 for Obama, 675 for Clinton, 277 for Dodd, 275 for Romney, and 273 for Huckabee, according to the secretary of state’s office. Posted by Andrea Panciera at 6:21 PM | Comment Photo: With so many sales, what's a shopper to do?
Posted by Andrea Panciera at 5:56 PM | Comment Health Dept. urges Woonsocket residents to boil waterA water main break in the Diamond Hill High Service section of Woonsocket has disrupted water service and has caused dirty water to flow from taps in the areas serviced by the Diamond Hill tank. The areas affected are bordered by Elder Ballou Meeting House Road from MacArthur Road East to Bound Road. Also included are Bound Road North to the Bellingham, Mass., line and Diamond Hill Road from the Cumberland line to Mendon Road. Pine Crest Drive, off Mendon Road, is also affected. Residents in the affected areas are urged to boil tap water used for cooking or drinking for at least one minute until further notice. Residents are warned that they could be without water for up to 24 hours. There is no confirmation of bacteria in the water supply at this time, and there are no reports of disease at this time. According to a news release issued by the state Department of Health, the Woonsocket Water Division is trying to locate the water line break. The division will make an announcement as soon as the work is completed, the release says. Bacteria sampling will be conducted in the Diamond Hill Service area after the repairs are completed.
Individuals who have digested water from this system and who are experiencing unusual symptoms should contact their physicians or go to the Emergency Room. Posted by Karen Bordeleau at 5:49 PM | Comment Update: NFL: Channels 10, 12 can carry Pats-Giants gameYou should be able to watch the New England Patriots' season finale against the Giants at home after all. The National Football League just announced it has arranged an "unprecedented" three-way national simulcast of the NFL Network telecast of this Saturday night's game with broadcast partners CBS and NBC. Locally, that means both Channels 10 and 12 can carry the game, an NFL spokesman said. A few minutes later, both stations confirmed to The Journal that they'll do so. The Patriots, 15-0, have the chance to finish the regular season undefeated. But a lot of Pats' fans in Rhode Island were likely to miss the momentous event, since the game was to be available locally only to subscribers to the NFL Network. Lisa Churchville, president and general manager of NBC 10, sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Monday offering to clear the station’s Saturday prime time schedule to air the game. WPRI-TV Channel 12 carried most of the team's games this season, while NBC 10 carrried two. This Saturday's game will also be televised by WCVB-ABC (Channel 5) in Boston, WMUR-ABC in Manchester, New Hampshire (Channel 9) and WWOR (Channel 9) in New York. The telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET with kickoff set at 8:15 p.m. ET. The NFL describes it as the first three-network simulcast in NFL history and the first simulcast of any kind of an NFL game since Super Bowl I in 1967 when CBS and NBC both televised the first meeting of the champions of the newly merged National Football League and American Football League. -- With reports from staff writer Paul Edward Parker Posted by Andrea Panciera at 5:13 PM | Comment Update: Recycle a Christmas tree for freeLet your council members know: the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation will accept Christmas trees from municipalities – and their contractors and residents – free of charge. The fee will be waived as long as the trees are not mixed with other trash, not bagged and don't have any ornaments,lights or tinsel on them. The offer lasts until Jan. 31, 2008. In Providence, Mayor David N. Cicilline announced this afternoon, the city will pick up trees for two weeks, beginning a week from today, Jan. 2. They should be placed at the curb on regular trash collection days and not contained in any type of bag. And remember – real trees only. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 4:21 PM | Comment Photo: Warm welcome for, and from, Disney ice skaters
Posted by Andrea Panciera at 3:10 PM | Comment Newport's new representative will be sworn in FridayRep.-elect Steven J. Coaty will be sworn into his new position Friday evening. The Republican will serve the remaining year of the former Rep. Paul W. Crowley’s term, representing Newport. Crowley, a Democrat, died on Sept. 24 after suffering from melanoma. Coaty will be sworn into the District 75 House seat Friday at 5 p.m. at a ceremony in the House of Representatives Chamber in the State House. Later in the evening, Speaker William J. Murphy will host a reception for Coaty in the House Lounge. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 2:16 PM | Comment Structure fire on Prospect Street in PawtucketFirefighters are at the scene of a working fire in Pawtucket. The wooden structure is on 217 Prospect St., near Memorial Hospital. No further information is available right now. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 1:13 PM | Comment Channel 10 still waiting on bid to air Pats-Giants gameWJAR-TV NBC 10 still hasn't heard from the NFL on its request to broadcast the New England Patriots' final regular season game Saturday night against the New York Giants. The Patriots, 15-0, have the chance to finish the regular season undefeated. But a lot of Pats' fans in Rhode Island could miss the momentous event, since the game will be available locally only to subscribers to the NFL Network. Lisa Churchville, president and general manager of NBC 10, sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Monday offering to clear the station’s Saturday prime time schedule to air the game. The station had not gotten a response as of about noon today, according to Barbara Beresford, the station's director of marketing. "We're hoping to hear today," Beresford said. WPRI-TV Channel 12 carried most of the team's games this season, while NBC 10 has carrried two. As currently scheduled, Boston's Channel 5 is scheduled to carry the game on free, over-the-air television, but none of the Rhode Island stations has permission to broadcast it. Rhode Islanders and other fans across New England will only be able to view the game if they are paid subscribers to the NFL Network, visit a bar or restaurant that subscribes, or if they can pick up Channel 5 in Boston. Posted by Jack Perry at 12:12 PM | Comment Body found in Cranston ID'd as 43-year-old manCRANSTON -- Police say the body found in this city Saturday was that of 43-year-old Brian Salisbury. According to Maj. Ronald Blackmar, Salisbury's last known address was in Cranston. An autopsy was performed Monday, but a cause of death has not yet been determined, Blackmar said. Police are waiting for a toxicology report. Salisbury's body was behind the Burger King on Sockanosset Cross Road. Police found the body acting on a tip from a phone call earlier that day. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 12:08 PM | Comment 2 fireworks displays will help light up Bright NightAlready planning for New Year's Eve? The lineup for Bright Night Providence has something to keep you busy from noon to midnight. Highlights: Two fireworks displays, one at 5:30 p.m. and again at midnight. Performances at the artist-run event feature a kids' fun fair at the Convention Center, a swing-dance party, and SLAMM, a drum-and-dance spectacular at the Providence Performing Arts Center. And here's a twist -- the first 3,000 holders of Bright Night Providence tickets will also be offered free admission to a Providence College Friars basketball game at the Dunkin' Donuts Center, according to a press release from the mayor's office. Performances will run at a number of venues throughout downtown Providence. A complete schedule and ticket ordering are available at www.brightnight.org. Tickets are also available over the phone through ArtTixRI, 401-621-6123, and at all BankRI locations, OOP! stores and at the East Side Marketplace. Day-of-event tickets will be sold at Providence Performing Arts Center, ArtTixRI Office, the Convention Center, the Providence Children’s Museum and several other venues. Posted by Andrea Panciera at 11:53 AM | Comment From day of recovery to day of shoppingIn some, oh so civilized places around the world, the day after Christmas is an official day of recovery from the excess of the holiday. The most well-known may be Great Britain's Boxing Day, whose etymology is a bit cloudy, but stems from the tradition of giving boxes of gifts on that day. Across the United Kingdom, Boxing Day has also become a big hunting day -- hunting on horseback with the hounds, that is. More recently, it seems as if members of the old British empire have been mimicking the practices of those colonists in the United States. They've already been swarming the Central Business District of Sydney, Australia, according to the Sydney Morning Herald's Web site. But here in Rhode Island, if you're not back in the stores today seeking post-holiday bargains or making exchanges -- and gosh knows, I've never been able to figure out why people rush to do the latter -- there are alternatives. Check out our calendar of movies playing around our idea and other seasonal events. Some of them you can even do after you get out of work :) Posted by Andrea Panciera at 11:27 AM | Comment Frenchtown night detours to continue through FridayPart of Frenchtown Road/Route 402 in East Greenwich, will continue to close at night this week because of work on the Route 403 overpass. Traffic patterns will be affected from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. tonight through Friday, according to the state Department of Transportation. Beginning at 9 p.m., crews will work on setting beams for the bridge that will carry Route 403 over Frenchtown Road. Signs will direct eastbound traffic to Davisville Road/Route 403 at West Davisville Road, and then to Devil’s Root Road and School Street to reach Post Road. Westbound traffic will be directed to reverse direction east of the closure area, then to use Post Road and follow the detour in reverse. For more information on the project and associated detours, visit the RIDOT Web site, or call the Department’s customer service office at 401-222-2450. Posted by Brandie Jefferson at 10:13 AM | Comment Holiday shopping, part two |
