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« February 2008 | Today | April 2008 » March 31, 2008Tonight: Funk, jazz and possibly pranksThere's funk in Providence and jazz in East Providence tonight. The John Allmark 16-Piece Jazz Orchestra plays at Bovi's Town Tavern, 287 Taunton Ave., East Providence. 434-9670. 9 p.m. CC Old School play funk at The Hi-Hat, 3 Davol Square, Providence. 453-6500, www.thehihat.com. 7 to 11 p.m. Find more happenings, including movie listings, at projo.com's calendar of events. And perhaps some people will be spending time thinking up ways to mark the first day of April, which is tomorrow and otherwise known as April Fool's Day. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:55 PM | Comment Body of 84-year-old man found in pool in S. KingstownSOUTH KINGSTOWN -- The body of an 84-year-old man was found in a pool of a vacant house on Woodland Trail today, the police said. The man was identified by police as William Kramer. The police were called at about 1:50 p.m. from Shirley Kramer, who reported her husband did not come home from walking the dog. She told the police he had left their 8 Indian Trail home at about 7:30 a.m. She left home, then returned at about 12:30 p.m. The police said that, according to a neighbor, the dog returned home at about 8:30 a.m. without Kramer. Police and firefighters searched and at about 3:30 p.m. Officer David Perry saw a dog's leash on the ground near a pool in the backyard of the vacant Woodland Trail house. Further inspection located the man's body. The police department is continuing with the investigation. However, foul play is not suspected. -- With reports from Journal staff writer Donita Naylor Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:51 PM | Comment Suspect sought in Providence shooting death on FridayPROVIDENCE -- The police have obtained an arrest warrant for a 23-year-old man in the shooting death of Richard G. Robinson, 41, on Friday night. Detectives have a murder arrest warrant for Byron Zepeda, described by the police as a 5-foot-9, light-skinned Hispanic man, weighing about 170 or 180 pounds, according to Providence police news release today. The police said the gun has not been recovered and that Zepeda should be considered armed and dangerous. The police asked in the news release that anyone with information on Zepeda should call the Providence police at 272-3121. At about 11:30 p.m. Friday, the police were sent to to a reported disturbance at 652 Douglas Ave., and they had information that shots were fired. Officers found Robinson, victim of a gunshot in the side yard. He was pronounced dead at Rhode Island Hospital. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:12 PM | Comment Update: Carcieri urged to rescind immigration order
Roberts, a Democrat, said, “We need to find a solution” to the problem of illegal immigration, “but the governor’s executive order is not a solution.” She added, “The politics of polarization will not lead us in the right direction.” She called on Republican Carcieri to rescind “what I feel is a very short-sighted executive order.” At least 250 people packed the Algonquin House on Broad Street for the 2 p.m. news conference, sponsored by Immigrants United, We Can Stop the Hate Rhode Island, Univocal Legislative Minority Advocacy and Hispanic Ministerial Association Miguel Sanchez-Hartwein, executive director of the Center for Hispanic Policy and Advocacy (CHisPA), noted that a letter was hand-delivered to Carcieri this morning. The letter calls Carcieri’s executive order “the biggest attack on the rights of immigrants in Rhode Island in at least a generation.” At several points, people chanted “¡ Un Pueblo Unido Jamás sera Vencido!” (A united people will never be defeated). After the press conference, Carcieri's office issued a statement saying the governor "reiterated his belief that elected officials have an obligation to enforce and support" all federal, state and local laws -- including those barring illegal immigration. Reaction to the order has included both criticism and support, according to a Journal story on Sunday. Extra: Read the full text of the governor's executive order 08-01, Illegal Immigration Control Order. -- With reports from Journal staff writer Karen Lee Ziner Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:45 PM | Comment Pothole problem afflicts Rte. 95 span in AttleboroA large pothole on Route 95 north -- through which concrete is apparently falling to a street below -- has closed one travel lane and the breakdown lane of the interstate highway between Exits 4 and 5 in Attleboro, Mass., according to state officials. According to a posting on traffic.com, the lane restrictions may continue into tomorrow morning. At about 2:20 p.m. on Route 95 north, just north of Route 295 in Attleboro, Massachusetts State Police received a report of a "very large pothole in the right travel lane of the highway" and reports of falling concrete pieces, said Trooper Eric Benson of the state police office of media relations. Adam Hurtubise, a spokesman with the Executive Office of Transportation, said the state had a repair crew there recently doing pothole work and "it very strongly appears" that a pothole has popped up in the same stretch, which crosses over North Avenue. "Thankfully, we have no injuries or property damage reported at this time," Hurtubise said. He said a crew is on site working on repairs now. The bridge will be inspected for structural integrity. The other two northbound travel lanes of Route 95 are open. -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:50 PM | Comment Smoke-shop case: Prosecution: Tribe expected raidPROVIDENCE -- A prosecutor said in closing arguments this afternoon that Narragansett tribal members knew state police were coming on July 14, 2003, and orchestrated events to cause the state embarassment when the police raid on the tribal smoke shop turned into a scuffle. Special Assistant Attorney General Maria Deaton told a Providence County Superior Court jury that state police used minimum amount of force to restrain those who were attacking them. She pressed the theme that this is a nation of laws, not of men, saying you cannot pick and choose when laws apply to you. The prosecutor argued that the seven defendants -- who are all members of the Narragansett Indian tribe including Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas -- want the jury to give them a pass because of what their ancestors went through. The prosecution finished its closing argument this afternoon; the two defense lawyers gave their closings earlier today. Tomorrow, Superior Court Judge Susan E. McGuirl will give her instructions to the jury, who will then begin deliberations. The seven tribal members are accused of resisting and scuffling with state police, who were carrying out the raid at the tax-free tobacco shop on tribal land in Charlestown. The tribal members face several misdemeanor charges including resisting arrest and assault. Earlier today, following closing arguments by the defense lawyer representing tribal conservation officer Thawn Harris, defense lawyer William P. Devereaux -- who represents the other defendants -- argued the state used excessive force and that tribal members were forced to defend themselves as a result. Harris's lawyer, Kevin Bristow, called the raid "a politically motivated action by law enforcement" under orders from Governor Carcieri. Extra: See continuing coverage of the trial, and look back at the raid, in stories, photos and video. -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney with reports from Journal staff writer Katie Mulvaney Update: Wrapping it up in smoke-shop case / Photo 
Journal photo / Kathy Borchers Superior Court Judge Susan E. McGuirl listens as defense lawyer William P. Devereaux takes his turn at giving closing arguments today.
Bristow represents tribal conservation officer Thawn Harris. He was followed by defense lawyer William P. Devereaux, who represents the six other defendants, including Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas. Prosecution lawyers were expected to present closing arguments this afternoon. The tribal members are accused of resisting and scuffling with state police, who were carrying out the raid at the tax-free tobacco shop on tribal land in Charlestown. The defense rested its case Friday afternoon after the Chief Sachem Thomas took the stand in Superior Court to describe July 14, 2003, raid. Thomas told jurors that he wore a suit and tie the day of the raid on the tribal smoke shop because he expected the state to take the tribe to court. "We felt we had the regulatory authority to do what we were doing," Thomas said of the tribe's decision to open the open the shop over Governor Carcieri's objections. Instead, he said, state police came onto tribal land, without presenting a warrant despite being asked repeatedly for paperwork. The July 2003 raid on the smoke shop, which had just opened for the sale of tax-free cigarettes, turned into a scuffle. Almost five years later, Thomas and six other Narragansett Indians are on trial for several misdemeanor charges including resisting arrest and assault. Extra: See continuing coverage of the trial, and look back at the raid, in stories, photos and video. Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:06 PM | Comment Update: Wrapping it up in smoke-shop case / Photo
Journal photo / Kathy Borchers Superior Court Judge Susan E. McGuirl listens as defense lawyer William P. Devereaux takes his turn at giving closing arguments today.
Bristow represents tribal conservation officer Thawn Harris. He was followed by defense lawyer William P. Devereaux, who represents the six other defendants, including Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas. Prosecution lawyers were expected to present closing arguments this afternoon. The tribal members are accused of resisting and scuffling with state police, who were carrying out the raid at the tax-free tobacco shop on tribal land in Charlestown. The defense rested its case Friday afternoon after the Chief Sachem Thomas took the stand in Superior Court to describe July 14, 2003, raid. Thomas told jurors that he wore a suit and tie the day of the raid on the tribal smoke shop because he expected the state to take the tribe to court. "We felt we had the regulatory authority to do what we were doing," Thomas said of the tribe's decision to open the open the shop over Governor Carcieri's objections. Instead, he said, state police came onto tribal land, without presenting a warrant despite being asked repeatedly for paperwork. The July 2003 raid on the smoke shop, which had just opened for the sale of tax-free cigarettes, turned into a scuffle. Almost five years later, Thomas and six other Narragansett Indians are on trial for several misdemeanor charges including resisting arrest and assault. Extra: See continuing coverage of the trial, and look back at the raid, in stories, photos and video. Posted by Andrea Panciera at 3:00 PM | Comment R.I. Convention Center raises some parking ratesFor the third straight year, the Rhode Island Convention Center is changing the price it charges for parking, but this year, while the price will go up for some parkers, it may go down for others. Beginning June 1, the event parking rate will rise to $10 from its current $9. Members of the convention center's governing board say the new price is still a bargain, especially when some nearby parking lots charge $20 or $30 when events are booked at the downtown Providence facility. Also June 1, monthly rates will increase about 5 percent. The center has a three-tiered rate structure for monthly parking, depending on the number of days a week and the hours which are covered. The most expensive plan, currently $195, will rise to $205. The cheapest will go from $145 to $152. But the board voted to study the rates for "transient" parking, which is the hourly rate in effect when events are not booked. Convention center employees will study whether to raise the rate $1 an hour, keep it the same, or drop it $1 an hour to increase traffic. The center currently charges $6 for the first hour and up to $17 for 24 hours. The center lost some of its transient business to neighboring Providence Place mall when the shopping center dropped its requirement for parking validation with a purchase in the mall. That opened up its garage, with three-hour parking for $1, to people not planning to shop, including those visiting the convention center. That prompted one board member to joke that the convention center should collect a toll from people crossing the pedestrian bridge that links the mall to the convention center by way of the Westin Hotel. -- Journal staff writer Paul Edward Parker Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 2:27 PM | Comment Bay State teen driving law having positive impactBOSTON — Massachusetts's revamped Junior Operating Law appears to be having its desired effect. During the past year, deaths involving junior motor vehicle operators and their passengers fell from 19 to 13 in Massachusetts. Speeding citations were down 33 percent. Registrar of Motor Vehicles Anne L. Collins credited the new law for drivers under 18, which took effect on March 31, 2007. It included stiff new penalties such as a 90-day license suspension for first-time speeders and a one-year suspension for a second offense. Previously those people faced a $50 fine. The law also clamps down on drag racing. Those with learner’s permits or junior operating licenses have their license or permit suspended for a year for a first offense. Previously, a first offense brought a fine of up to $500 fine and a 30-day suspension. -- The Associated Press Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 2:01 PM | Comment Hasbro buys rights to Trivial Pursuit game for $80MPawtucket-based Hasbro (HAS:NYSE) said today that it has purchased for $80 million all of the intellectual property rights related to the Trivial Pursuit brand from Horn Abbot Ltd. and Horn Abbot International Limited. Hasbro has developed, marketed and sold the popular Trivial Pursuit game under license from the Horn Abbot companies since 1983. "Trivial Pursuit created the adult game category in 1982 and has always been one of the most recognized brands in the industry," said Brian Goldner, chief operating officer of Hasbro. "Now, as a wholly-owned and operated part of our deep and rich brand portfolio, we can build Trivial Pursuit beyond traditional venues and capitalize on new opportunities in entertainment, publishing, promotions and digital arenas." -- Journal business editor John Kostrzewa Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 1:55 PM | Comment Woonsocket man is recovering from hypothermiaSMITHFIELD -- A Woonsocket man is recovering from hypothermia after his boat flipped in a frigid reservoir in Smithfield. The accident happened about noon Sunday in the Woonasquatucket Reservoir. Smithfield Fire Chief Joseph Mollo says the victim, whose name was not released, was in the water about 20 minutes before firefighters pulled him to safety. He was taken to Fatima Hospital in North Providence. Mollo says the boat's motor struck the bottom of the shallow pond, causing the boat to tip. A passer-by saw the man in the water and summoned help. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:48 PM | Comment Red Sox's championship trophies coming to PawtucketBoth the 2004 and 2007 Red Sox World Series trophies will make a Rhode Island appearance on Sunday. They will be at McCoy Stadium in Pawtucket before and during the Pawtucket Red Sox game scheduled that day for 1:05 p.m., Governor Carcieri's office announced today. The PawSox will host the Indianapolis Indians. Gates open at 11 a.m. and Pawtucket Red Sox ticket holders can have photos taken with the two most famous pieces of hardware in Red Sox lore. The photos will later be available at pawsox.com, where they can be downloaded. The first 4,000 fans coming into McCoy Stadium Sunday will get a commemorative Red Sox World Series pennant. The PawSox' season opener is this Thursday at 7:05 p.m. at McCoy. Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:53 PM | Comment Update: No hazardous leak detected at VA hospital
PROVIDENCE -- Firefighters, using special hazardous material detection equipment, found no leak of poisonous ethylene oxide from the Veterans Medical Center on Chalkstone Avenue this morning, according to Assistant Fire Chief Michael J. Dillon. Firefighters wore special suits and went into a pressurized room where the material is contained. They detected no leak inside or outside. An alarm came in at about 7:45 a.m. from the hospital, at 830 Chalkstone Ave., according to James Taylor, chief of communications for the Providence Fire Department. A hazardous materials crew and police blocked off Regent Avenue, which leads into the center's complex. James Burrows, director of communications for the center, said earlier today that the alarm went off in a room where equipment is sterilized. No one was in the room when the alarm went off, he said, and no one was in danger. Ethylene oxide has many uses; in a medical setting, it's often used for sterilization. It's also flammable and highly reactive. Exposure can lead to lung irritation and injury, headaches, nausea and vomiting, and other problems. -- projo.com staff writers Michael P. McKinney and Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith and Journal staff photographer Bill Murphy
Posted by Mike McKinney at 12:49 PM | Comment No need to weigh admissons letter; just click tonightKeep an eye out this evening for server errors brought on by anxious teenagers. This evening, the nation’s eight Ivy League schools –– including, for the 7th year, Brown University –– will release their admissions decisions online. That means no looking out the window for the mail carrier. No weighing of admissions office envelopes. Just point and click. The decisions will be available at 5 p.m. Until then, all there is to do is wait. A message at Brown’s admissions office says a moratorium is in effect today and tomorrow, meaning no last-minute pleas or questions for admissions departments. What’s done is done. Brown won’t publicize how many spots it's offering until the decisions are released this evening. Last year, the school turned away about 85 percent of those who applied –– a record rate of rejection. That year it also had a record number of applications -- more than 19,000. The school accepted just fewer than 2,600 of those applicants. Of course, for any students who prefer the old school process –– and anticipation –– of waiting for a tangible admissions acceptance or rejection letter, those are also being mailed today. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 12:47 PM | Comment New trial denied in case of murdered Cape social workerBOSTON — The state’s highest court has denied a new trial for a man convicted of killing a Cape Cod social worker who sided with his estranged wife in a custody dispute. Paul Dubois is serving a life sentence in the 1996 killing in Provincetown of Linda Silva, a social worker with the state Department of Social Services who recommended that Dubois’ wife get custody of their two children during the couple’s divorce. Silva was shot once in the back of the head. Dubois claimed the judge at his trial should have suppressed statements he made to police in 2003 when he claimed he had asked for a lawyer, but didn’t get one. In a ruling today, the Supreme Judicial Court found that Dubois did not respond when police asked him if he wanted a lawyer. -- The Associated Press Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 12:39 PM | Comment Gas prices in R.I. back on the upswingPROVIDENCE -- Gas prices are back on the rise in Rhode Island, after dipping a week ago for the first time in several weeks. AAA Southern New England says the average price of a gallon of regular unleaded rose a penny to $3.19 this week. The state Energy Office pegs the price a bit higher, at $3.20 per gallon. Still, Rhode Islanders are getting a break compared with the rest of the country. AAA says gas prices average $3.28 per gallon nationally. Prices in Rhode Island have risen 19 percent from a year ago, up from $2.67 a gallon at this time last year. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:55 AM | Comment Update: Fatal shooting victim ID'd as Woonsocket manPROVIDENCE -- Police have identified the victim of a fatal shooting early this morning on Allens Avenue as a 21-year-old Woonsocket man. The shooting took place near Balloons strip club at 257 Allens Ave. at about 2 a.m. When they arrived at the scene, police say they learned that 21-year-old Angel Vargas of Morin Street in Woonsocket had been taken to Rhode Island Hospital by someone on the scene. When they arrived at the hospital, police say they were told that Vargas was pronounced dead at the emergency room at 2:14 a.m. Witnesses told police that a black SUV that may have been involved fled toward downtown on Allens Ave. It was the city's fourth murder this year, and the second in three days. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from staff writer Gregory Smith Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 11:51 AM | Comment Possible chemical leak at VA hospital probed / Photos
An alarm came in at about 7:45 a.m. from the hospital, at 830 Chalkstone Ave., according to James Taylor, chief of communications for the Providence Fire Department. A hazardous materials crew has arrived and police have blocked off Regent Avenue, which leads into the center's complex. James Burrows, director of communications for the center, said the alarm went off in a room where equipment is sterilized. No one was in the room when the alarm went off, he said, and no one was in danger. Ethylene oxide has many uses, in a medical setting, it's often used for sterilization. It's also flammable and highly reactive. Exposure can lead to lung irritation and injury, headaches, nausea and vomiting, and other problems. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff photographer Bill Murphy
Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 11:11 AM | Comment Update: Trial rescheduled for methadone clinic deathA murder trial has been postponed for a 32-year-old Massachusetts man who police say killed another man outside of a Pawtucket methadone clinic. Police say John Duffy killed Ronald Leone in October 2006 as the two waited to get into the clinic at 31 North Union St. The two allegedly got into an argument about a woman who tried to reclaim her spot in line. Police say Duffy got upset when the woman tried to get back in line. Leone defended the woman. Police say the argument escalated, and Duffy stabbed Leone in the head and in the side. Duffy faces a single charge of murder. His next court appearance is set for April 16. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 10:02 AM | Comment Brown announces new dean of medicineBrown University has announced that Dr. Edward J. Wing will take over as dean of medicine and biological sciences, replacing Dr. Eli Y. Adashi. Wing, the chairman of medicine since 1998, will take the helm on July 1. It is not known why Adashi decided to leave Brown. He began in January 2005, and announced his resignation barely three years later, without an explanation. The university, which had spent nearly three years on the search that led to Adashi’s hiring, then decided to move quickly to replace him, appointing a small committee to find someone from within Brown. Wing will head an academic division with an annual budget of $129 million, 769 faculty members and 1,200 community-based faculty. He will be responsible for biomedical research and the instruction of medical students and residents, as well as Brown’s relationship with its seven affiliated hospitals. The division is composed of the Warren Alpert Medical School, the Program in Biology and the Program in Public Health. -- Journal Medical writer Felice Freyer Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 9:21 AM | Comment Advocates for immigrants to respond to Carcieri todayA group of advocates is getting together today to discuss an executive order signed last week to crack down on illegal immigrants in Rhode Island. This afternoon’s press conference is sponsored by three groups: Members of Immigrants United; We Can Stop the Hate Rhode Island; and Univocal Legislative Minority Advisory Coalition. Government officials and community members are also invited. The event is a response to an executive order signed Thursday by Governor Donald Carcieri that will require state agencies and vendors to verify the legal status of employees and direct the state Police and Department of Corrections to work with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement “to ensure federal immigration law is enforced.” The press conference is set for 2 p.m. today at the Algonquin House, 807 Broad Street, in Providence. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 8:42 AM | Comment Traffic Alert: Accident shuts down lane on 95 northA lane is closed on Route 95 this morning just north of Providence. The accident, on the northbound side of the roadway, has the left lane closed at Route 95 Exit 23/Route 146 north/State House. To see how traffic is flowing along your route, visit the Transportation Management Center's Web cameras.
Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 7:25 AM | Comment Idaho wants to know: how's the weather in Rhode Island?If you reach Rhode Island, hang up and try again. That's what local officials in Boise are telling callers who dial into Idaho's travel information phone service -- 511 -- but are connecting to Rhode Island's 511 service instead. "We apologize for the inconvenience," Jeff Stratten, public information officer for the state of Idaho told the local ABC affiliate. "While many highways in Idaho are still snow covered, I understand the highways in Rhode Island are clear." And just in case you weren't familiar with 511, the nation-wide service gives callers in most areas information about travel conditions and events around the state. In Rhode Island, it's managed by the state's Department of Transportation. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Maria Armental Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 7:11 AM | Comment Man shot and killed near Allens Ave strip clubPolice in Providence are investigating an early morning shooting that left one person dead. The shooting was near Balloons strip club at 257 Allens Ave. at about 2:00 a.m. More information to come. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 7:08 AM | Comment Today's front page: Plastic bagsYou've seen them floating serenely through the sky in the spring breeze: plastic bags. Download a copy of today's front page, which features an article by Metcalf Environmental Reporter Natalie Garcia about the life, death and rebirth of the ubiquitous bags and a plan to curb or ban their use in the Ocean State. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 6:56 AM | Comment Rain, wind, and finally ... spring.Spring is on its way. But first, the National Weather Service is forecasting a high temperature near 48 degrees today with south winds gusting as high as 25 mph. There's also rain in the forecast, beginning around noontime. Rain continues through the night with clouds and a mild overnight low temperature of 43 degrees. Tomorrow brings what we've been waiting for: A high temperature near 65 degrees. Of course, the forecast also includes rain and a breezy southwest wind, gusting as high as 46 mph. More spring-like weather is on the way; see projo.com's weather page for the rest of the week's forecast. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 6:44 AM | Comment National Grid extends moratorium on winter shutoffsPROVIDENCE -- Tens of thousands of National Grid customers will have two extra weeks to pay their utility bills. National Grid announced today that it is extending by two weeks a moratorium on winter service shutoffs. The extension applies to the estimated 34,500 "protected status'' customers in Rhode Island. Those are often customers who are elderly, handicapped, seriously ill or dealing with financial difficulties. The moratorium started on Nov. 1. It will be extended from April 15 to May 1 for "protected status'' customers only. The moratorium for all other customers will still end on April 15. National Grid officials are urging customers to try to pay at least part of their gas or electric bill during the moratorium. More about the extension ... -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:23 AM | Comment March 28, 2008Tonight and tomorrow: Blithe spirits take center stageBlithe Spirit begins its run at Trinity Rep in Providence tonight at 8. Noel Coward's classic comedic play tells the story of writer Charles Condomine, who during a séance unwittingly conjures the ghost of his first wife, Elvira, much to the annoyance of his new wife, Ruth. There will also be showings at 8 p.m. tomorrow and at 7 p.m. Sunday. The production runs through April 27. Read the Journal's preview of the show. Tomorrow, Providence's St. Patrick’s Day Parade, postponed from its original date because of rain, will be held at noon, 12 days after the actual date of St. Patrick’s Day. The parade will step off at Elmhurst Avenue and Smith Street and head to the State House, where there will be a reviewing stand. For more of what's happening this weekend, visit projo.com's Lifebeat and calendar pages. Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:05 PM | Comment Firefighters on scene of garage fire in ProvidencePROVIDENCE -- Firefighters are on scene at a garage fire in the area of 154 Waldo St., according to fire dispatch. The fire broke out at about 6:15 p.m. The garage is attached to a building and next to a house. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:58 PM | Comment 'Super Saturday' aims to spread tax-rebate adviceTomorrow, there will be eight places throughout Rhode Island for people to get help filing the Form 1040A -- for people filing solely to receive their new tax-rebate stimulus payments. A list of IRS offices and partner sites providing assistance on what is being called "Super Saturday" is at www.irs.gov or by calling the IRS Hot Line, (800) 906-9887. If taxpayers have questions about the rebate program, they can call (866) 234-2942 on Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more tax help online, visit projo.com's Tax Time page, which includes MoneyLine columns, helpful links and more. Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:55 PM | Comment Update: Angelo's wins national business award / Photo
The National Jeffrey H. Butland Family-owned Business of the Year award honors a family-owned and operated business which has passed on from one generation to another, according to the SBA. Angelo Mastrodicasa first opened his restaurant on Atwells Avenue in 1924. The restaurant is now owned and operated by Robert Antignano, a third-generation family member. “Robert Antignano epitomizes the hard work, the risk taking, and the creativity that are the characteristics of successful American entrepreneurs,” said Steve Preston, SBA administrator. “These are the qualities that make Bob the national Jeffrey H. Butland Family-owned Business of the Year. His company embodies the best of entrepreneurship and the American dream.” Governor Carcieri, U.S. Sen. Jack Reed and Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline were scheduled to join Antignano and S.B.A. officials at the restaurant today for a formal announcement of the award. Antignano will be honored during the national Small Business Week celebration in Washington, D.C. on April 23, according to the SBA. Angelo’s first won the Rhode Island and also New England regional awards before being considered for national recognition. Posted by Jack Perry at 6:27 PM | Comment Update: Driver critically burned in Rte. 91 tanker crashCHICOPEE, Mass. -- A truck driver was critically burned after his fuel tanker rolled over and exploded in a fiery wreck that shut down Interstate 91 in Chicopee today. The driver was initially trapped in the cab after the 9:30 a.m. crash. Witnesses told The Republican of Springfield that more than a dozen drivers pulled over to try to free the man, some carrying blankets and jackets to smother the flames. "They were trying to get him out of the cab, but everybody who tried would be stopped by the flames," said Gregory Coleman of Westfield. "There were just a bunch of people running towards the fire. It was crazy." Coleman's sister, Rebecca Colemen of Chicopee, said the tanker then exploded. "The explosion just rocked the whole bridge," she said. "The car bounced." The driver, identified by state police as Aaron J. Staelens, 43, of Richmond, N.H., was eventually rescued and taken to an area hospital. The Republican reported he suffered third-degree burns over much of his body State police said the accident happened after Victor Aponte, 35, of Holyoke got onto the highway, lost control of his car and careened across the road, hitting another car. Aponte's car then hit the tanker, which veered off the road, striking a guardrail and sign post. The trailer separated from the tanker, rolled over the guardrail and down an embankment as the cab and trailer burst into flames, police said. Meanwhile, Aponte's car was hit from behind by another car. Aponte's passenger Louisa Fonseca, 43, of Holyoke, was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. No other injuries were reported. The driver works for Abenaqui Carriers of North Hampton, N.H. The tanker was carrying 9,500 gallons of gasoline and 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel, the company said in a statement. The fire burned for more than 90 minutes after the crash, and smoke could be seen for miles. Full story from the Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:05 PM | Comment Democrats criticize Carcieri's immigration orderState Democratic Party officals today sharply criticized Governor Carcieri for signing an executive order on illegal immigration that they charge "essentially mandates racial profiling." Tim Grilo, the state party's executive director, said in a news release this afternoon that rather than host a meeting and invite minority community leaders to the table, the governor "chose the low road and took another cheap political shot." State Rep. Grace Diaz, D-Providence, said in the statement that the governor's "spiteful tone not only encourages racial profiling bit it encourages outright discrimination against legal citizens of the state." Yesterday, Carcieri, a Republican, signed the order and held a news conference at which he saidthe order will enable "a vast array of state organizations" to address illegal immigration. “This is not about taking a hard line against immigrants,” Carcieri said yesterday. “It’s about making sure that those who come here can realize their goals of economic security and a better quality of life.” Referring to his own immigrant roots, Carcieri said he supports people who follow legal channels to get the American dream. “The motive is to get control of an issue that has to be dealt with,” Carcieri said. “If you’re here illegally, you shouldn’t be here.” -- projo.com staff Michael P. McKinney, with Journal reports Posted by Mike McKinney at 5:12 PM | Comment Update: Guilty verdict ends game for con man KluthPROVIDENCE -- John P. Kluth Jr., a former Newport lobsterman who told a tale about a broken-down lobster truck again and again to con cash out of people, was found guilty today on 30 out of 31 charges of obtaining money under false pretenses. Reacting to the verdict, Providence police Lt. Daniel Gannon, the case's lead investigator, said, "He was a confidence man. He was on top of his game. But his game is at an end now." The one count upon which Kluth was acquitted -- a complaint by noted Cranston philanthropist Alan Shawn Feinstein. One victim of Kluth's con came into the courtroom just to hear the verdict. That was Eugene McMahon, state jury commissioner, whose testimony the jury asked to have read back to them earlier today. After the verdict, McMahon congratulated the prosecution team and said, "good job." The jury reached its verdict after about 9 hours, across two days, in Providence County Superior Court. The charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the amount of money and the age of the victim. "The victims, the people whose generosity Kluth selfishly and calculatedly targeted and leveraged for his own gain and many of whom are elderly, deserve our thanks for taking the time to file criminal complaints and testify against him convincingly at trial," Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch said in a statement. Kluth's next appearance in court has not been set, the state Attorney General's office said. Kluth also is wanted for alleged scams in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Extra: Listen to Kluth explain his actions to Journal staff writer Gregory Smith -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson and Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:43 PM | Comment Alert: Jury finds Kluth guilty on 30 of 31 countsPROVIDENCE -- The jury has returned a verdict against con man John Kluth Jr. in the second day of its deliberations. The jury took about 8 hours total to find Kluth guilty of 30 out of 31 charges of obtaining money under false pretenses. The charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the amount of money and the age of the victim. The one count upon which he was acquitted -- a complaint by noted local philanthropist Alan Shawn Feinstein. One victim of Kluth's con -- who told targets his lobster truck had broken down and that he needed to get it fixed -- came into the courtroom just to hear the verdict. That was Eugene McMahon, state jury commissioner, whose testimony the jury asked to have read back to them earlier today. Dates have not yet been set for Kluth's next appearance in court, according to a statement sent from the Rhode Island Attorney General's office. Kluth also is wanted for alleged scams in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Extra: Listen to Kluth explain his actions to Journal staff writer Gregory Smith -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson with reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 1:38 PM | Comment 3-story house in Providence on fire; occupants outPROVIDENCE -- Fire and rescue crews are on the scene of a fire in a three-story wood-framed house. The two-alarm fire, at 65 Atlantic Ave., is on the second floor of the house, which was occupied at 12:46 p.m., when the call came in. All occupants have since been evacuated, according to James Taylor, chief of communications for the Fire Department. A dry hydrant off nearby Broad Street has led firefighters to extend their hoses to another water source, Taylor said. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 1:05 PM | Comment Kluth jury wants jury commissioner's testimony read backPROVIDENCE -- The jury deliberating the case against accused lobster truck con man John Kluth Jr. asked to have testimony read back to them today. The jury, in its second day of deliberating, came out at about 12:10 p.m to have read to them testimony from Rhode Island state jury commissioner Eugene McMahon, one of the 31 complainants who the state alleges Kluth attempted to get money from by telling them he needed money to fix a broken-down truck. McMahon testified to giving Kluth $100. When he and Kluth had talked, McMahon initially spurned Kluth, who purported to be a neighbor of McMahon's, according to testimony. McMahon changed his mind and gave him the money. McMahon testified he was not paid back but did not report it because he was embarrassed and wanted to keep it to himself. Then he saw a newspaper article and decided to come forward to the police. He gave a statement to the police on Sept. 6 last year. Kluth, 48, did not take the stand during his two-week trial in Providence County Superior Court, but the prosecution called 31 witnesses who said they had been duped by Kluth into giving him money -- between $25 and $5,200. Extra: Hear Kluth tell Journal staff writer Gregory Smith what he did. -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with reports from Journal staff writer Gregory Smith Posted by Mike McKinney at 1:01 PM | Comment Photo: Branching out
See what kind of weather the weekend holds in store, get yourself ready for some outdoor gardening, or share some tips with our posters on projo.com's Garden Blog. Not ready to venture out yet? Upload your own photos showing signs of spring and see what others have found. Posted by Andrea Panciera at 12:46 PM | Comment 23 Aquidneck properties up for auction -- by reserveMIDDLETOWN -- If, despite the current real estate climate, you are in the market for nearly two-dozen properties on Aquidneck Island, you’re in luck. A Virginia-based realty company is auctioning 23 Newport County properties tomorrow morning. The auction is not selling foreclosed or distressed properties and is not an absolute auction, selling properties to the highest bidder on the spot. Instead, it's a reserve auction, allowing sellers to establish a confidential minimum bid. If that minimum is met or exceeded, the sale goes through. If not, the seller has 48 hours to accept, reject or renegotiate. “This is the first time there’s been an auction like this in Newport County,” said Cameron J. Wolfe, a business consultant who worked with the Counts Group to organize the auction. “It’s a growing trend in the real-estate industry.” Two local real estate agencies have agreed to participate in Counts Realty & Auction Group’s Auction, set for 11 a.m. tomorrow at the Atlantic Beach Club in Middletown. Properties include: - A contemporary Colonial house at 72 Harrison Ave., in Newport, just one block from the harbor, listed for $1.25 million. - An historic house at 204 Spring St., Newport, listed at $995,000. - Eight building lots in the Indian Hill subdivision in Portsmouth -- From a Journal staff report Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 12:25 PM | Comment Serve your community penance outsideSpring is coming; if you've been sentenced by the courts to do community service, wouldn't it be nice to do it outside? You may be in luck. Providence Crime Watch and the District 6 Community Police are looking for people who have to do community service to work on some upcoming projects and programs around the neighborhood. There’s a litter clean-up scheduled for late April, graffiti clean-up, and other neighborhood projects. For more information, call Michael Correia, president of Providence Crime Watch, at 369-0247. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 12:05 PM | Comment Foxwoods appeals NLRB decision on union voteFoxwoods Resort Casino this week appealed a judge's ruling recommending approval of a unionization vote by the gambling venue's dealers. Dealers at the Connecticut casino voted 1,289 to 852 in November in favor of union representation by the United Auto Workers. Earlier this month, an administrative law judge rejected several objections to that vote filed by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, which owns Foxwoods. Among other things, the tribe claimed that union "agents" harassed and intimidated anti-union dealers, improperly spoke to dealers on the day before the vote and provided voting notices and ballots only in English or traditional Chinese. In a 33-page legal brief filed Tuesday with the National Labor Relations Board's Washington headquarters, the tribe's attorneys argue that "keeping a list of employees who have voted . . . has been found to interfere with an election and is grounds for setting aside the election when it can be shown or inferred from the circumstances that the employees knew that their names were being recorded." In its latest appeal the tribe also raises the issue of whether the NLRB has jurisdiction over a sovereign tribal nation. "It is no small understatement to note that the board's decision to, in certain cases, assert jurisdiction over some Native American enterprises, has not been well-received by Native American Tribes." This week's appeal is another milestone in what appears will be a long tussle over the union issue. A ruling by the NLRB in Washington upholding the decision of Administrative Law Judge Raymond Green would force Foxwoods into collective bargaining with the UAW and the dealers. If Foxwoods fails to bargain, that move could trigger another round of hearings with the NLRB, before possibly ending up in federal court. In a related development, the tribe on Monday expects to appeal a unionization vote taken by a second group of Foxwoods employees, according to Bruce MacDonald, a Foxwoods' spokesman. -- Journal staff writer Paul Grimaldi Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 11:45 AM | Comment Tanker truck crash shuts down Route 91 in Mass.CHICOPEE, Mass. -- A fiery tanker truck crash and explosion has shut down Interstate 91 in Chicopee. The Massachusetts State Police said the crash occurred just after 9:30 this morning as the truck carrying diesel fuel was traveling north on Route 91. Peter Judge, a spokesman for the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, said the fire engulfed three cars, but he had no immediate word on injuries to anyone in those vehicles. The driver worked for Abenaqui Carriers of North Hampton, N.H. A driver for the same company rolled over a fuel tanker in Everett in December, sparking a fire that severely damaged several homes and destroyed dozens of cars. A spokesman for Abenaqui said the driver was hurt Friday and taken to an area hospital. He did not know the driver’s condition, and did not have further details. Diesel fuel spilled on the highway, but Judge said the accident occurred on an area of the highway that is relatively isolated and that he did not expect homes or businesses to be affected. The fire was still burning more than 90 minutes after the crash, and smoke could be seen for miles. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:39 AM | Comment Somerset official: Weaver's Cove Energy did not consultSOMERSET, Mass. -- The chairman of the Board of Selectmen said this morning that yesterday's assertion by Weaver's Cove Energy that it has consulted with Somerset officials about its plan to build an offshore LNG berth in the Somerset waters of Mount Hope Bay "is a bold-faced lie." Grasso was quoted in today's Journal story as saying that the company began speaking with elected officials in Fall River and Somerset last week about this alternative. “They are, I believe, digesting the information we gave them, and don’t have really a response yet.” “I’m in the process of making phone calls to several of the key stakeholders so everyone knows what’s going on." Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 10:55 AM | Comment Accused con man's case still in jury's handsThe jury is still deliberating the case of a Newport man accused of scamming 31 people with a bogus tale of woe. John Kluth Jr., 48, did not take the stand during his two-week trial, but the prosecution called 31 witnesses who said they had been duped by Kluth into giving him money -- between $25 and $5,200. Kluth is alleged to have convinced people to give him money by telling them his lobster truck had broken down, and that he was desperate to get it fixed. The jury, which went into deliberations yesterday, is supposed to consider each allegation separately. Extra: Hear Kluth tell Journal staff writer Greg Smith what he did. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 10:38 AM | Comment Newport police, feds charge 11 after drug investigationNewport police and federal officials made nearly a dozen arrests last night after a four-month investigation into the sale of crack, cocaine and marijuana. Newport police’s vice/narcotics unit worked with the federal Drug Enforcement Agency on the investigation, which focused on the lower Broadway area of the city. Yesterday, 11 of 16 suspects were arrested and face drug delivery and conspiracy charges. Authorities are still looking for five additional suspects. Click below to read the list of those arrested. Maren D. Lema, 40 --Newport, - 2 counts- delivery crack cocaine. David A. Traynum, 38 -- Newport, -- 3 counts- delivery crack cocaine. John M. Denman, 46 -- Newport, -- 1 count- controlled substance conspiracy. Terrence Moy, 39 -- Newport, -- 1 count -controlled substance conspiracy. Joel Francis Robinson, 36 -- Newport, – 1 count of larceny, 1 count- delivery cocaine. Anthony F. Holloway, 28 -- Newport, - 1 count- delivery cocaine. Angela Dyl, 28 -- Newport, - 1 count- delivery crack cocaine. Larry Douglas Mckinney -- Newport, - 1 count- crack cocaine Stephen C. Evans, 39 -- Newport, - 1 count - delivery crack cocaine Eric C. Massey, 37 -- Middletown, - 1 count - delivery crack cocaine Christopher A. Widomski, 37 -- Newport, – 1 count - delivery crack cocaine Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 9:47 AM | Comment St. Patrick's Day is backRemember St. Patrick’s Day? Does it seem like a distant memory? Well, it’s coming back to Providence, 12 days after the fact. Tomorrow at noon, the Providence St. Patrick’s Day Parade sets off on Smith Street at Elmhurst Avenue. The event was postponed on March 8 because of a rainy forecast. This year, grand marshal and former hockey star James Bennett will lead the parade down Smith Street to the State House reviewing stand. It's the 15th year that Irish culture has been celebrated along Smith Street,” City Councilman Terrence M. Hassett said in a statement. “Although this parade is a little late, good weather and plenty of entertainment will round out a great day of festivities.” For more information, call Patrick Griffin, president of the Parade Committee, at 751-1553. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 8:30 AM | Comment Smoke-shop trial to resume MondayThe trial of seven Narragansett Indians facing a variety of misdemeanor charges is off for the day. The members of the tribe are accused of several infractions, from assault to resisting arrest following a July 2003 raid on a tribal tax-free smoke shop. The seven defendants face up to a year in prison, a $1,000 fine, or both. No one has been charged with selling untaxed cigarettes. Closing arguments are scheduled for Monday, and Superior Court Judge Susan McGuirl has previously set a deadline of April 4 for the end of the trial. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 7:35 AM | Comment Newport considers banning SegwaysNEWPORT -- The Newport City Council is considering an ordinance to ban Segway personal transporters from city streets and sidewalks. The two-wheeled, single-person battery-operated vehicles can go about 12 miles an hour. Riders stand and steer with a handlebar. The city last year denied a request from a tour operator to run Segway tours around downtown Newport and to the city's famous oceanside mansions, saying they could be a traffic hazard. Segways are used in other tourist destinations around the country to give tours. A spokesman for New Hampshire-based Segway told the council Wednesday night that cars, scooters, roller blades and bicycles can go on city streets and sidewalks, and Segways should be no different. The council asked the city solicitor to review the proposal. -- The Associated Press Posted by Jack Perry at 7:02 AM | Comment Rain today, snow also possibleThere's even more rain on tap for today until mid-afternoon. And the National Weather Service is also warning about the possibility of a brief burst of snow during the morning commute. Eventually, we can expect a high temperature near 40 degrees with a calm west wind. Tonight we may see more rain and maybe sleet before 9 p.m., then possible snow later. Clouds should part a little as the night goes on and the temperature drops to 29 degrees. Tomorrow we'll see sun, with a high temperature near 40 degrees with north winds gusting as high as 31 mph. Skies should remain clear tomorrow night, with a low temperature dropping to 20 degrees and north winds gusting as high as 30 mph, but later becoming calm. More sun Sunday with a high temperature near 46 degrees and calm, north winds. And Sunday night, we have another chance of snow showers late, with cloudy skies and a low temperature near 29 degrees. And again, Monday, a chance of snow, then a wintry mix, in the morning, turning to rain later in the day. Expect clouds and a high temperature near 48. To keep an eye on the changing forecasts throughout the weekend, visit projo.com's weather page. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 7:01 AM | Comment Today's front pageToday's front page features coverage of the smoke-shop trial, Governor Carcieri's executive order to crack down on illegal immigration and the sixth part of an eight-part series on the Navy's Officer Candidate School in Newport. Download a copy of today's front page in .pdf format. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:00 AM | Comment March 27, 2008High court to hear advisory request on privatization lawPROVIDENCE -- The state's highest court has agreed to hear Governor Carcieri's request for an advisory opinion on the constitutionality of a law passed in June that blocks the governor from using private companies to conduct state business. The state Supreme Court has decided that the governor, the House speaker, the Senate president, the attorney general, and other interested parties may file briefs on the governor's question on or before May 9. Responsive briefs will be filed on or before June 20. A date for arguments will be set after briefs are filed. The court's order denied a request from the governor for a conference with Supreme Court's chief justice. The governor's office on March 18 delivered a request for an advisory opinion regarding whether the law, which opponents call an anti-privatization measure, is constitutional. The governor has expressed opposition to the law as something that will hurt the ability of state government to work. His 2008-09 state budget plan calls for replacing certain positions with nonunion contractor, which could produce savings through lesser salaries and benefits. The order reiterates that an advisory opinion means the justices "speak in our individual capacities, as legal experts rather than as Supreme Court justices. The members, then, "do not exercise the judicial power" and the opinion is "not binding and it carries no mandate." -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney, with Journal archival reports Posted by Mike McKinney at 7:05 PM | Comment Smoke-shop case: Chief sachem describes the raid
PROVIDENCE -- Closing arguments are set for Monday in the trial of seven Narragansett tribal members accused of resisting and scuffling with state police, who were carrying out a raid at the tribal smoke shop in Charlestown. The defense rested its case this afternoon after the tribe's chief sachem, Matthew Thomas, took the stand in Superior Court to describe July 14, 2003, raid. Thomas told jurors today that he wore a suit and tie the day of the raid on the tribal smoke shop because he expected the state to take the tribe to court. "We felt we had the regulatory authority to do what we were doing," Thomas said of the tribe's decision to open the open the tax-free smoke shop on tribal land in Charlestown over Governor Carcieri's objections. Instead, he said, state police came onto tribal land, without presenting a warrant despite being asked repeatedly for paperwork. The July 2003 raid on the smoke shop, which had just opened for the sale of tax-free cigarettes, turned into a scuffle. Almost five years later, Thomas and six other Narragansett Indians are on trial for several misdemeanor charges including resisting arrest and assault.
 Journal file photo Narragansett Indian Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas struggles with a state trooper during the contentious 2003 raid. See more photos and video of the raid and from the trial. "(State Police) looked like they meant business and they weren't talking to nobody," he said of their arrival. He said he moved toward the shop after being pushed back by troopers, one of whom had a dog. Thomas said he grabbed a trooper after he observed a tribal member being thrown from the shop stairs and saw an officer confronting Tribal Councilman Hiawatha Brown outside the shop door, he said. "I didn't think anyone had the right to go into the smoke shop who wasn't authorized," he said. -- Journal staff writer Katie Mulvaney Thomas said somebody there must have known he was chief sachem through his dealings with the state. He described a conversation with state Police Major Steven G. O'Donnell: "I asked 'where's the paperwork? This is ridiculous.' He said, 'We're gonna show it to you.' " Thomas said went to consult with Tribal Councilman John Brown, understudy to the medicine man, as Brown was being led away by a trooper. He said he asked why Brown was being arrested when Lt. Robert Mackisey pushed him in the chest. "The next thing I know,” Thomas said, “I have a lot of hands on me.” Thomas was handcuffed and placed under arrest after being taken to the ground by several troopers. No tribal member was ever charged with the illegal sale of untaxed cigarettes, he said. Under cross examination by prosecution late today, Thomas agreed that a 1978 settlement that gave the tribe its land specified that state laws applied on the 1,800 acres.
Extra: See photos and video of the 2003 raid on projo.com Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 6:54 PM | Comment Off-shore LNG berth proposed for Mount Hope BayWeaver’s Cove Energy said today it is preparing a proposal to build an off-shore LNG berth in Mount Hope Bay that would allow tankers to offload liquefied natural gas about a mile from the nearest shore. The company said it will soon file the plan with federal energy regulators in the hopes that it will be better received than its widely opposed plan to build an LNG terminal in Fall River. The berthing structures would secure an LNG ship in place during unloading operations, the company said, and support the beginning of a 4-mile long pipeline that would be buried in a trench between portions of Mount Hope Bay and the Taunton River. The LNG would be piped to a storage tank and regasification facility in Fall River, where the company had originally planned to build an LNG terminal. The berthing platform would be located in waters within the town of Somerset, Mass., about one mile from the nearest shoreline and two miles south of the Braga Bridge, Weaver’s Cove said. James Grasso, a company spokesman, said this new proposal does not replace the original proposal to build an LNG terminal in Fall River. “We are not giving up on our original proposal,” he said in a phone interview. “What we are doing is proposing a possible alternative to perceived issues with tankers.” The Weaver’s Cove proposal to build the Fall River LNG terminal was conditionally approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in 2005, despite widespread opposition from elected officials in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, as well as citizens groups and residents near the proposed facility. But the proposal met a major setback when the U.S. Coast Guard found that it was too risky to allow LNG tankers to traverse parts of the Taunton River because of two bridges that are close together. This new proposal would not require LNG ship traffic within the congested areas of the Taunton River, the company said, and would address concerns expressed by the community and the U.S. Coast Guard. It would also greatly decrease dredging within the Taunton River, the company said. “We have listened closely to the community’s concerns on how best to provide a safe and secure supply of natural gas for the community and the region,” said Gordon Shearer, chief executive officer of Weaver’s Cove Energy, in a statement. -- Journal staff writer Timothy C. Barmann “If moving LNG tanker unloading operations offshore proves technically and economically feasible, it would address many of the community’s concerns while providing the benefits of jobs, taxes, and lower energy prices,” Shearer said. “It is widely recognized that New England has a pressing need for additional energy, particularly natural gas… Whether we provide that through our earlier proposal, which we believe meets or exceeds all applicable safety standards for LNG projects, or this new option offshore, our goal is to find a solution that works best for the community and for New England.” Grasso said that the company began speaking with elected officials in Fall River and Somerset last week about this new alternative. “They are, I believe, digesting the information we gave them, and don’t have really a response yet.” “I’m in the process of making phone calls to several of the key stakeholders so everyone knows what’s going on.” Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:45 PM | Comment House OKs bill that would let inmates out earlierPROVIDENCE -- House lawmakers struggling with a financial crisis have voted to save money by letting prisoners leave state prison sooner if they behave and work. The bill passed this evening 56-9. The proposal must still be approved by the state Senate before it could become law. Rhode Island is facing a massive budget deficit estimated at around $560 million. Governor Carcieri, a Republican, and Democratic lawmakers had proposed cutting prison costs by allowing prisoners more time off their sentences for good behavior, working and getting treatment. Under the House proposal, inmates could cut short their sentences by 12 days for every month they follow prison rules and work. Most prisoners are now eligible for lesser reductions. -- The Associated Press Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:36 PM | Comment Update: Man killed on Rte. 95; child passenger survivesA man was killed today when he lost control of -- and was thrown from -- the Rhode Island-registered car he was driving on Route 95 north in Attleboro. A child passenger, who was wearing a seatbelt, has been taken to Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence with minor injuries, the Massachusetts State Police said in a news release. The statement did not elaborate on how or if the man and child are related. The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed by the police, was traveling in a 1996 Ford Contour sedan in the left lane of Route 95 north -- just south of Exit 3 -- when the car went off the road and into a guardrail on the highway's right side, according to a preliminary state police investigation. State troopers from the Foxboro, Mass., barracks responded to the crash at about 2:45 p.m. The right lane of Route 95 north and the Exit 3 ramp were closed for about two hours. The police said they are looking for information about an unknown red vehicle that may have been involved in the crash. The police ask anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who may have information to call the Massachusetts State Police Foxboro barracks at (508) 543-8550. The state police, including collision analysis and accident reconstruction experts, are investigating the crash. -- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney Posted by Mike McKinney at 6:00 PM | Comment Update: Carcieri order aims to enforce immigration lawPROVIDENCE -- Governor Carcieri this afternoon signed an executive order he says will strengthen efforts to respond to illegal immigration problems, in part by expanding the authority of the State Police to help with identifying and arresting illegal immigrants. According to Carcieri's office, the order requires state agencies and vendors to verify the legal status of all employees and allows the state to inform people whose identity was stolen. It also directs the State Police and the Department of Corrections to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure federal immigration law is enforced. “Today I am issuing an Executive Order which will enable a vast array of state government agencies to better address the issue of illegal immigration in Rhode Island,” Carcieri said in a press release. “I want to make one thing very clear: I support increasing the quotas to have more legal immigrants in the United States. I also support granting more work permits. This is not about taking a hard line against immigrants," said the governor, who described himself as the grandson of immigrants from Italy and Sweden. "It’s about making sure that those who come here can realize their goals of economic security and a better quality of life.” The executive order sets up its provisions by saying "Rhode Island continues to welcome new immigrants who legally seek the opportunities that the state, its economy, and its resources offer." But Congress and the president have "been unable to resolve the problem of illegal immigration, leaving the states to deal with the consequences of 11 to 20 million illegal immigrants residing in the United States," adding that 20,000 to 40,000 live in Rhode Island. Having "significant numbers" of people living in the state illegally puts "a burden on the resources of state and local human services, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions and other governmental institutions and diminishes opportunities for citizens and legal immigrants in Rhode Island," the order adds. Extra: Read the full text of the Governor's Executive Order 08-01, Illegal Immigration Control Order. Click below to read more about the order: -- projo.com staff reports * The state Department of Administration will require all companies, contractors and vendors doing business with the state to use the federal E-Verify program to ensure their employees are working in the country legally. Carcieri's office said states that have recently enacted similar measures include Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Minnesota, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia. “By ensuring that there are no illegal immigrants employed in the executive branch and that those who do business with the state do not employ illegal immigrants, we are setting an example for others to follow,” Carcieri said in a statement. “This will encourage the private sector to comply.” * The State Police will reach an agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), known as a memorandum of understanding, to get training to help immigration enforcement personnel in arresting illegal immigrants. At this time, if the State Police arrest illegal immigrants, they must call ICE tp find out if deportation will be pursued. With the new agreement, the State Police who have been trained by ICE will be able to access federal databases, process immigration prisoners and transport them to the Wyatt Detention Center. * The state Department of Corrections will also have an agreement with ICE to give state correctional officers authority and training to "address illegal immigration issues" at the Adult Correctional Institutions, in Cranston. It will allow certain prison personnel to do some duties of ICE agents such as "investigating immigration status and preparing the necessary documentation for those who have been found to be in this country illegally. This will streamline the process and make it more efficient," the governor's office said. * The Parole Board and the state Department of Corrections will work with ICE personnel to "provide for the parole and deportation of criminal aliens." The governor's office stated that will enable ICE to get involved in the process early on and provide the Parole Board with information on inmates before their parole eligibility date. “This will speed up deportation by getting these inmates back to their respective countries in a more timely fashion,” Carcieri said in the statement. “It will also be more cost effective. We will no longer bear the financial burden of providing housing or rehab treatment to these non-violent inmates.” * State agencies will have authority to notify those "whose identity was stolen or used improperly to receive benefits such as child care, health care or a driver’s license." According to the order, a section added to federal immigration law -- "performance of immigration officer functions by state officers and employees" -- authorizes the U.S. Department of Homeland Security secretary to make agreements with state and local law enforcement agencies, "permitting designated officers to perform immigration law enforcement functions pursuant to a Memorandum of Agreement." Federal immigration law, as amended in 1996, allows government entities or officials to send to or get from the Immigration and Naturalization Service information on someone's immigration status, the gvoernor's order states. The federal government set up a program called E-Verify to "help employers electronically verify the employment eligibility of new hires and the validity of their Social Security numbers." Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:40 PM | Comment Update: State reviews pending sale of rehab hospitalNORTH SMITHFIELD -- Landmark Medical Center is seeking state permission to sell control of its rehabilitation hospital here to a for-profit St. Louis-based company. Currently, the 82-bed rehabilitation center on Eddie Dowling highway near the Woonsocket line is owned by Landmark Medical Center and its corporate parent, Landmark Health Systems. Landmark wants to sell 80 percent of the operation to a new corporate entity that will be 80 percent owned by RehabCare Hospital Holdings LLC of St. Louis. Mo. According to documents filed with the state Department of Health, the new owners will reduce the number of beds at the hospital from 82 to 41. Landmark spokesman bill Fischer said that the average patient population at the rehabilitation hospital averages 25 to 30 patients, so the loss of beds is not seen as requiring a reduction of staff or services offered to northern Rhode island area. Fischer said RehabCare specializes in the type of rehabilitation medicine practiced at the center. Those services were a side business for Landmark, he said. The sale of the hospital would enable Landmark get an infusion of cash and put the operation in the hands of someone who knows that business better than landmark does,. “We believe this is going to give us the opportunity to augment and grow that business,” he said. RehabCare officials could not be reached for comment. The company specializes in providing rehabilitation management services in hospitals, nursing homes and other out-patient facilities. In its 2006 annual report, the company claimed 16,500 employees working in facilities in 87 markets throughout the United States. The company cited operating earnings of $21 million on revenues of $615 million. The final price has not yet been set, Fischer said.
Under state law, the sale must be reviewed and approved by the Attorney General’s office and the state Health Department. The Health Department must examine the proposed sale to make sure it protects the public health and welfare, while the attorney general is charged with guarding the new entity’s charitable assets and gains from money that has been donated to the institution in the past and to make sure there are no conflicts of interest amongst the new owners. The review process is complex and can take up to six months. Now that documents have been filed, the health department and attorney general’s office must determine if they application is complete. If it is found lacking, the applicants will get 30 days to complete it. Once it has been certified as complete, the state has p to six months to review it. Part of that review process will be a public meeting. “Public input will be very important given that the sale involves an out-of-state for-profit entity buying an in-state hospital,” the Health Department and the attorney general said in a joint statement. Originally known as the Fogarty Unit, Landmark has owned the 116 Eddie Dowling Highway facility since a merger in 1988. Landmark uses it as the site of its occupational health department and open-design Magnetic Resonance Imaging nit. Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:24 PM | Comment Smoke-shop case: Defense rests, closings MondayPROVIDENCE -- Closing arguments are set for Monday in the trial of seven Narragansett tribal members accused of resisting and scuffling with state police, who were carrying out a raid at the tribal smoke shop in Charlestown. The defense rested its case this afternoon after the tribe's chief sachem, Matthew Thomas, took the stand in Superior Court to describe July 14, 2003, raid. Under cross examination by prosecution late today, Thomas agreed that a 1978 settlement that gave the tribe its land specified that state laws applied on the 1,800 acres. The Narragansetts opened a tax-free smoke shop on tribal land off Route 2 over Governor Carcieri’s opposition on July 12, 2003. Two days later, dozens of state troopers later used a search-and-seizure warrant granted by state court to stop the tribe from selling tobacco without charging state taxes. The raid turned violent, and seven Narragansetts, including Thomas, face charges that include resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and assault. Read more about Thomas's testimony today in court.
Posted by Mike McKinney at 4:21 PM | Comment Update: Carcieri order aims to enforce immigration lawPROVIDENCE -- Governor Carcieri this afternoon signed an executive order he says will strengthen the state's efforts to respond to the problem of illegal immigration. It also directs the Rhode Island State Police and the Department of Corrections to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure federal immigration law is enforced. “Today I am issuing an Executive Order which will enable a vast array of state government agencies to better address the issue of illegal immigration in Rhode Island,” Carcieri said in a press release. “I want to make one thing very clear: I support increasing the quotas to have more legal immigrants in the United States. I also support granting more work permits. This is not about taking a hard line against immigrants," said the governor, who described himself as the grandson of immigrants from Italy and Sweden. "It’s about making sure that those who come here can realize their goals of economic security and a better quality of life.” Extra: Read the full text of the Governor's Executive Order 08-01, Illegal Immigration Control Order. More to come ...
Posted by Jack Perry at 3:39 PM | Comment Traffic Alert: Afternoon accident snarls 195An afternoon accident has traffic slowed to a crawl on Route 195. The two-car accident is on the eastbound side of the roadway on the Washington Bridge. For up-to-date views of traffic on the state's highways, check out the Transportation Management's Web cameras. Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 2:08 PM | Comment Lawmakers to consider gambling, town merger billsPROVIDENCE -- From 24-hour gambling to creating a supertown coined "Westconnaug," the State House agenda promises another interesting day. The House Finance Committee is scheduled to hear, and potentially vote on, a bill, sponsored by Rep. William San Bento Jr., D-Pawtucket, North Providence, to allow 24-hour video lottery games at Twin River and Newport Grand. The meeting is slated to begin at the rise of the House of the Represenatives later this afternoon and will be held in State House room 35 -- the Trainor hearing room, according to the agenda. Yesterday, the Senate Finance Committee approved legislation to allow 24-hour gambling on weekends and during overnight hours before state and federal holidays that come on Mondays at Twin River and Newport Grand. The proposal by Rep. Nicholas Gorham, R-Coventry, to merge several towns into one called Westconnaug is scheduled to come before the House Municipal Government Committee at the rise of the House later this afternoon. The new community would be made up of what are now Exeter, West Greenwich, Scituate, Foster, Glocester, and the part of Coventry known as the Western Coventry Fire District. The meeting has several bills on tap for hearing and/or consideration and is scheduled to be in State House room 205. Read more about the proposed Westconnaug. Posted by Mike McKinney at 2:03 PM | Comment No bombs found at Burrillville High SchoolBurrillville Police Lt. Kevin San Antonio said a search this morning of students’ bags at Burrillville High School did not reveal anything suspicious. The School Department yesterday said that there were "significant criminal and school penalties" tied to making threats and that authorities would prosecute anyone involved with the note “to the fullest extent possible.” --projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Mark Reynolds Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 12:15 PM | Comment Smoke-shop case: Chief Sachem Thomas takes standPROVIDENCE -- Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas has taken the stand this morning in the case of seven Narragansett Indians faced with assault and other misdemeanor charges after a 2003 state police raid on a tribal, tax-free smoke shop. Thomas is expected to be the last witness in the trial, which began Feb. 29. Thomas, 46, has served on the tribal council since 1990 and is the youngest elected chief sachem since Colonial times. So far he is answering questions about the day-to-day administrative duties that he has as chief, as well as general questions about the Narragansett Tribe. Thomas is charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and simple assault for the scuffle during the raid of the smoke shop on tribal land in Charlestown. Earlier today, defendant Bella Noka took the stand. She was also a member of the tribal council at the time of the raid and faces charges for disorderly conduct, obstructing a police officer and assault charges. In court today, Noka said a state trooper threw her to the ground, putting his knee into her groin. She said she had to curl into a fetal position to protect herself. Extra: See photos and videos from the raid, as well as more trial coverage. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson, with reports from Journal staff writer Katie Mulvaney Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 11:47 AM | Comment Broken bottle prompts hardware store evacuationNORTH PROVIDENCE -- The Fire Department went to an ACE Harware store on Waterman Avenue today, and the building was evacuated as a precaution after a 16-ounce bottle of insecticide fell and broke in the store, according to fire dispatch. No one was injured. Personnel are still on scene. Posted by Mike McKinney at 11:46 AM | Comment Seniors can ask the experts about tax rebatesIf you're a senior citizen who doesn't normally file taxes -- but wants to receive a federal rebate check -- you'll have to do things differently this year. You can get information from the experts in Cranston tomorrow afternoon at the Rebates for Seniors information session. Representatives from the IRS are joining Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse at tomorrow's meeting to answer questions and clarify what senior citizens need to do to ensure they receive checks. Among other things, seniors can ask questions about filing taxes, which they'll need to do to secure a check from the federal government. Tomorrow's meeting is the third in a series that also went to Pawtucket and Westerly. The Cranston session is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Cranston Senior Center, 1070 Cranston Street. Extra: Find out now when you'll receive your rebate check. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 11:04 AM | Comment Jury to decide case of alleged con man KluthPROVIDENCE -- A Superior court jury will decide the fate of a 48-year-old Newport man alleged to have conned 31 people out of thousands of dollars. John Kluth Jr. is alleged to have used stories of a broken-down truck full of lobsters to swindle lawyers, the state jury commissioner, a well-known philanthropist, a retired Superior Court judge, officials in the attorney general’s office, a retired Marine Corps colonel, an accountant, businessmen, retirees and others. The jury was to begin deliberating this morning. Kluth faces 31 counts of obtaining money under false pretenses. He's been on trial for two weeks. The state presented more than 40 witnesses, including 31 who said they were conned by Kluth. The defense presented no witnesses. Kluth did not testify. Read full coverage of yesterday's developments in the trial. -- With reports from Journal staff writer Amanda Milkovits Posted by Jack Perry at 10:38 AM | Comment Sheriff: Security blunders helped suspect flee hospitalNEW BEDFORD, Mass. -- The Bristol County sheriff says "breakdowns in security" helped lead to the escape of an accused rapist from a New Bedford hospital. Anthony Flye remains on the loose after slipping out of a bathroom at the hospital on Tuesday. Hodgson says a court officer who was guarding the 38-year-old suspect did not immediately report the escape and the sheriff's office did not learn of it until two corrections officers arrived at the hospital at least one hour later. Hodgson says a New Bedford police officer spotted a man believed to be Flye - wearing hospital slippers and a gown - about 45 minutes after the escape. But the officer did not know at the time that the man was wanted and did not arrest him. Flye faces charges of child rape, indecent assault and battery on a disabled person and incest. -- The Associated Press Posted by Jack Perry at 9:56 AM | Comment 2 injured in Warwick rolloverOne person was seriously injured early this morning in a rollover accident that police say illustrates the importance of wearing safety belts. Three juveniles were in the vehicle just after 1 a.m., entering Route 95 northbound from Exit 10/Route 117 in Warwick. The driver lost control on the entrance ramp, according to State Police Lt. Eric LaRiviere, and the vehicle flipped as it entered the highway. The passenger was thrown through the driver’s side window, and landed in the far left travel lane of the highway. She was taken to Hasbro Children's Hospital with what appeared to be serious, but not life-threatening injuries, LaRiviere said. “It appears she was not wearing a seatbelt,” he said. A back seat passenger had minor injuries, LaRiviere said. The driver, who police believe was the only person wearing a safety belt, was not injured. The disparity between injuries is not always so stark, LaRiviere said. "This just emphasizes the need for seatbelts. We have a young girl with serious injuries versus the driver with no injuries.” At this point, LaRiviere said, police believe excessive speed was a factor in the rollover. The driver was cited for lane and roadway violations – for not staying within his lane – and for having passengers who were not wearing safety belts. -- projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson Posted by Brandie M. Jefferson at 8:14 AM | Comment Lawmakers: Carcieri to target illegal immigrantsPROVIDENCE -- Gov. Carcieri plans to sign an executive order today forcing prison officials and state police to identify illegal immigrants in state custody and requiring that state agencies take other steps to penalize immigration violators, a lawmaker said yesterday. Carcieri's office did not immediately release details of the order, but the governor's spokeswoman, Barbara Trainor, said it would cover "several bases." A written statement from Carcieri's office said there is a growing number of illegal immigrants, and the federal government is not taking action. It said the Republican governor will also endorse legislation that has been introduced in the Democratic-dominated General Assembly that will accomplish the same goal. Among other steps, Carcieri will require the state Department of Corrections and state police to identify and report illegal immigrants in their custody, said Rep. Joseph Trillo, who said he has discussed the proposal with Carcieri's staff. Once state law enforcement identifies illegal immigrants, they can alert federal immigration authorities to begin deportation proceedings. A spokeswoman for the Department of Corrections declined to comment on the plan. State Police Maj. Steven O'Donnell said he had not been briefed on the subject, although state police officials will attend a news conference that Carcieri has scheduled for this afternoon. Carcieri has also been considering proposals that would affect employers. A Carcieri staffer recently told Rep. Jon Brien that the governor planned to sign an executive order forcing state agencies and contractors to verify the legal status of their workers, Brien said. The Democratic lawmaker had asked Carcieri to support a bill requiring private employers to do the same. "By cracking down on the employer, you're basically saying if you want to work in Rhode Island, that's fine," Brien said. "But you have to do it legally." -- By Ray Henry, the Associated Press Brien's proposal is one among many introduced by Rhode Island lawmakers this year that deal with illegal immigration. One would make it a crime for state workers to issue state ID cards to illegal immigrants; kick illegal immigrants off public assistance programs; make it illegal to transport or harbor illegal immigrants; and require law enforcement to notify federal authorities any time they arrest a suspected illegal immigrant. Carcieri has already proposed cutting immigrant children, be they legal or illegal, from a state-subsidized health care plan. He has also drawn fire from some immigrants rights groups for cutting translators from the state payroll. His office said a recent report showed anywhere from 20,000 to 40,000 illegal immigrants live in the Ocean State. Carcieri has said in the past that the state, in the midst of a $561 million budget crisis, can't afford and shouldn't have to pay for people who break the law. Posted by Jack Perry at 7:56 AM | Comment Rain likely this afternoon, high of 48 degreesLook for rain this afternoon, mostly after 3 p.m. The National Weather Service is forecasting a high temperature near 48 degrees and calm west winds. More clouds and rain -- and maybe snow -- tonight, when the temperature drops to 34 degrees mild, south winds. Look for a throwback to winter tomorrow, with rain, mixed with sleet in the morning and likely snow later in the afternoon. The high temperature is not likely to break past the 40-degree mark, and cold, north winds could gust up to 20 mph. Check projo.com's weather page f |
