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Man pleads guilty to killing Baltimore tech entrepreneur in attack that shocked the city [Video]
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Man pleads guilty to killing Baltimore tech entrepreneur in attack that shocked the city [Video]

A man pleaded guilty Friday to killing Baltimore tech entrepreneur Pava LaPere last September in an apparently random attack that shocked the city.Jason Billingsley, 33, entered the guilty plea instead of going to trial Friday morning and was sentenced to life. He also pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of attempted murder in a separate arson and home invasion case that took place just days before LaPere was found dead on the rooftop of her downtown Baltimore apartment building.Officials said the Monday plea agreement included two other life sentences.LaPere, who founded a tech startup from her dorm room at Johns Hopkins University and was named to Forbes 30 under 30 list for social impact, died from strangulation and blunt force trauma after being sexually assaulted. She was remembered as someone who remained focused on building community and using entrepreneurship to create meaningful social change, even as her national profile rose.In a bail review hearing following Billingsleys arrest, prosecutors said he had admitted to beating LaPere with a brick. He gained entry to her downtown Baltimore apartment building after waving her over to its glass door, but theres no reason to believe they knew each other, according to police.LaPere’s killing also prompted criticism of police for their response.Video below: Pava LaPere Act would eliminate ‘good-time credits’Her body was found six days after the home invasion case in which police say Billingsley gained entry into an apartment building by identifying himself as the building maintenance man. According to his arrest warrant, he pointed a gun at a woman inside and used duct-tape to restrain her and her boyfriend. He then raped the woman several times and slit her throat with a knife before dousing both victims in liquid and setting them on fire, leaving them with serious burns, police wrote.Billingsley had been quickly identified as a suspect in that case. Baltimore police have said they were actively pursuing him, but they did not immediately alert the public because they didnt think he was committing random acts of violence.The victims filed a lawsuit earlier this year accusing the property owner and management company of engaging in negligent hiring practices.Billingsley was released from prison in October 2022 after serving a shortened sentence for a 2013 rape because he earned good behavior credits behind bars.Earlier this year, Maryland lawmakers heard testimony for LaPeres parents and passed a bill to end good behavior credits for anyone imprisoned for first-degree rape. The new law goes into effect Oct. 1.

“What’s the Headline if There’s a Catastrophic Failure?” Top-Level NASA-Boeing Dispute Erupts Over Safe Return of Williams and Wilmore [Video]
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Small Business Ideas

“What’s the Headline if There’s a Catastrophic Failure?” Top-Level NASA-Boeing Dispute Erupts Over Safe Return of Williams and Wilmore [Video]

NASA and Boeing are locked in a heated dispute over the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stranded on the ISS since June due to Starliner malfunctions. While Boeing argued that its spacecraft could still bring the astronauts home, NASA rejected the idea, citing safety concerns and opting for a SpaceX mission instead.

The Labor Day 2024 pet deals we’re seeing right now [Video]
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Small Business Tips & Strategies

The Labor Day 2024 pet deals we’re seeing right now [Video]

Labor Day 2024 is just around the corner, and for pet owners, this year’s holiday sales are shaping up to be something special. As retailers gear up for the long weekend, we’re already seeing deals on pet products across the board. From high-quality pet food and treats to must-have accessories, these discounts are perfect for pampering your furry friends without breaking the bank. Related video above: New study shows dogs are good for your healthWhether you’re a dog lover, a cat enthusiast or even a proud fish owner, the range of savings available ensures there’s something for every type of pet. So, if you’re looking to stock up on essentials, try out new products or simply spoil your pets, keep reading to discover the top deals that are too good to miss. Dont let these limited-time offers slip by your pets will thank you!We already did a full story breaking down pet deals on Amazon this Labor Day weekend click here to explore those deals.Here’s a list of great deals from other retailers across the internet:ChewyLitter Genie Plus Cat Litter Disposal System: The Litter Genie Plus Cat Litter Disposal System is designed to make managing cat waste easier. It features a built-in antimicrobial liner that locks in odors and germs, while the compact design allows for convenient storage. The system helps reduce trips to the trash, keeping your home smelling fresh and clean. It’s currently 27% off on Chewy. Click here to take advantage of this great deal.Blue Buffalo Bursts with Paw-Licken Chicken Cat Treats: These treats are crunchy, bite-sized snacks filled with a savory chicken filling. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, these treats provide a satisfying texture that cats love. They’re free from artificial preservatives and flavors, making them a wholesome choice for rewarding your feline friend. These treats are 22% off on Chewy now, click here to see more.Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy: The Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball is a durable, high-bounce ball designed for dogs who love tough play. Made from natural rubber, it’s perfect for active dogs who love to fetch. The ball is compatible with Chuckit! launchers for extended playtime and is also easy to clean, ensuring endless fun for your dog. It’s on sale for a whopping 66% off now. Head to Chewy to make your dog’s day with this deal.WalmartPawGiant Large Outdoor Dog Kennel: This kennel from PawGiant provides ample space for your pets allowing them to rest in a friendly and safe environment outdoors. The roof of the dog house is not only waterproof but also UV-proof providing a comfortable and safe outdoor resting place for your lovely dog. In addition, the roof can be easily removed allowing it to be used indoors as a dog fence. This unique kennel is on sale for $82 off. Check out this deal today, only at Walmart.com.PONDON Fish Tank, 1.7 Gallon Glass Aquarium: Perfect for beginners, this small fish tank comes with an efficient air pump, LED light and filter, offering everything you need to start your aquatic journey. The LED light illuminates your tank, showcasing your fish in vibrant colors. The included filter keeps the water clean, ensuring your fish thrive. This tank is currently $32 off. Click here to learn more about this deal from Walmart.Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Wet Dog Food Variety Pack: Packed with more of the meat dogs love and free of the grains that contain gluten BLUE Wilderness wet dog food is made to feed your dogs wild side. With real beef and chicken plus fruits and vegetables, this grain-free recipe features the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals. Get this variety pack for $14.50 off on Walmart.com today!PetSmartPet-Pourri Pet Odor Eliminator Candle: This candle is designed to neutralize pet odors while adding a fresh scent to your home. Made with natural ingredients, this candle is safe for pets and effectively eliminates lingering smells. It’s perfect for pet owners looking to maintain a clean, pleasant-smelling environment without harsh chemicals. It’s currently $7 off at PetSmart. Click here to learn more.Whisker City Cat Character Hut Cat Bed: This adorable cat bed offers a cozy, enclosed space for cats to relax and sleep. Designed with playful character features, it provides a sense of security and comfort. The soft, plush interior makes it inviting, while the charming design adds a fun touch to any home decor. Get it for 49% off at PetSmart today. Click here to get one for your kitty today.Blue Buffalo Puppy Treat Dog Treats: Whether you’re rewarding your dog for a job well done during training or just want to treat him for being a good boy, these bits are tasty morsels that will always get his attention. These are natural dog training treats that are soft, moist and extremely tasty. These treats are 66% off now. Head to the PetSmart online store to enjoy this deal.For more coverage of Labor Day deals, click here.

City considering impact fees amid growth [Video]
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Small Business Lifestyle

City considering impact fees amid growth [Video]

The city of Greer is considering adding an impact fee to new developments within its limits due to the city’s continued growth.Greer City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to move forward with a study on the potential new fee. “We felt like we were at the point in time where because of our continued growth through the years, that this was our opportunity to go ahead and let some of the new growth, pay for and pave the way for itself,” Mayor Rick Danner said.Danner said, on average, the city is seeing more than 1,000 homes being started over the past several years. “It just doesn’t seem to make sense to our council at this point in time that those folks that have been living in Greer and have been here a while, carry the whole load of water themselves,” Danner said.He said the fee could be collected once a new permit is pulled from the city. Rates are not yet final, but Danner said single-family, multifamily and commercial developments would have different rates.”This is a statement by our council to say that we are investing in smart growth,” Danner said. “We want to be cognizant of the fact that, you know, there is a cost to growth, and this is the way that we want to address it.”Affordable housing, schools and volunteer fire departments are some of the exceptions to the proposed fee. “Greenville area had the climate that I wanted,” said Robert Wiley, who recently moved to the area. “It was less expensive, and I could afford to live here.”Danner said the money collected from the fee could go to support services such as police, fire and recreation. “Anything that can help Greer, being a part of Greer for the last seven years with Barista Alley, I think we’ve seen a lot of changes,” Barista Alley Manager Charlie Carter said. Danner added the proposal is not expected to affect the city’s growth, but it could affect the price of construction. “There is a cost to the person that is developing the project or the homes, and so indirectly, I’m going to assume that they would pass that along in some regard to do the cost of a home,” Danner said.The city’s planning commission is expected to take up the matter next month for a public hearing before it heads back to council for another vote.

Milwaukee Public School District does not have a timeline to put police officers back in schools, despite state mandate [Video]
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Milwaukee Public School District does not have a timeline to put police officers back in schools, despite state mandate [Video]

Milwaukee Public School District board members said on Thursday that the district does not have a timeline for when police officers will be back in school despite missing the state-mandated deadline in January. The district stopped police officers patrolling Milwaukee Public Schools after protests in 2020. However, Wisconsin’s shared revenue bill passed last year, also known as Act 12, required Milwaukee Public Schools to have 25 police officers back in schools by January 2024, nearly nine months ago.A state senator, earlier this week, accused MPS of breaking the law.At a school board meeting Thursday Interim Superintendent Eduardo Galvan gave an update to the board. He said there is a rough draft of an agreement between MPS and the Milwaukee Police Department, called an Memorandum of Understanding, to add police officers back in MPS buildings.Board members told WISN 12 News they had seen the rough draft agreement and were able to provide feedback, but board Director Henry Leonard said he was not satisfied with the update Thursday. “You were looking for some more clarification tonight. Do you feel like you got it?” WISN 12 News reporter Emily Pofahl asked.”No, we did not,” Leonard said. Galvan said the rough draft outlines responsibilities for cops in schools, but does not include any mention of what it will cost.”Any financial responsibilities will be negotiated separately,” Galvan said.State and city leaders want to know why the district missed the January deadline in the first place.”They’re clearly ignoring what the law says,” said Milwaukee Alderman Scott Spiker. “And I’m an old-fashioned guy. I think when somebody writes a law, whether you like it or not, you should follow it.”Spiker is also the chair of Milwaukee’s public safety committee. He attended the meeting Thursday and said the district is dragging its feet. “Any sort of slow-walking that has been happening, and I would agree with that assessment, has not been on the city’s part,” Spiker said.Board director Marcela Garcia said the delay may be because some don’t want police officers to go back in schools, calling some of her constituents “resistant” to the idea.”Moving slowly on this, I think, is an indication of the thoughtfulness going into this, but mostly the resistance that, you know, we are being forced to do this,” Garcia said.Leonard asked Galvan for clarification on when the board could see the rough draft agreement finalized, but Galvan did not commit to a firm timeline Thursday.He said the district handed the rough draft over to the city attorney’s office to review last week and said he has meetings with the city and the police department coming up in the next several weeks to finalize the agreement.City Attorney Evan Goyke confirmed to WISN 12 News his office is working on the agreement as required under 2023 Wisconsin Act 12.

Mass. woman shares EEE survival story, lingering effects years later [Video]
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Small Business Tips & Strategies

Mass. woman shares EEE survival story, lingering effects years later [Video]

LONG TERM CONSEQUENCES. THESE ARE TWO OF MY GREAT GRANDCHILDREN. IN 1962, SHIRLEY BARLOW WAS LIVING IN MILTON, NEAR A HORSE RANCH. AND SHE SAYS THATS PROBABLY HOW SHE CAME IN CONTACT WITH A MOSQUITO CARRYING A VIRUS. THAT LITTLE STINKING MOSQUITO BIT THE HORSE. GOT ME FOR THREE DAYS. BARLOW COULDNT GET OUT OF BED. THEN, WITH A TEMPERATURE OF 104, HER MOTHER TOOK HER TO THE HOSPITAL, WHERE DOCTORS SAID SHE HAD EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS THAT WAS CAUSING HER BRAIN TO SWELL AND THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. PEOPLE WERE COMING AND SAYING GOODBYE TO ME. THATS. YEAH, BECAUSE THEIR LAST GOODBYES. THERE WAS NO YEAH, THERE WAS REALLY NO HOPE FOR ME. THERE IS A VACCINE TO PROTECT HORSES AGAINST TRIPLE E, BUT NONE HAS EVER BEEN APPROVED FOR HUMANS. SAME GOES FOR ANTIVIRAL MEDICATIONS. PART OF THE PROBLEM AGAIN, IS BECAUSE ITS SUCH A RARE INFECTION, WHICH IS FORTUNATE WE DONT HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY REALLY TO TEST ANTIVIRALS. EVERYONE SURPRISED A FEW MONTHS AFTER BARLOW GOT SICK, SHE GOT WELL ENOUGH TO GET MARRIED. SHE WENT ON TO RAISE TWO SONS AND TRAVEL THE WORLD, BUT STILL TAKES MEDICATION FOR HEADACHES. STARTS IN THE BACK. AND ITS LIKE YOU CANT SEE. ALMOST MAKES YOU BLIND. AND BARLOW CONTINUES TO WARN EVERYONE SHE CAN ABOUT THE DANGERS OF TRIPLE E. SO WHEN I SEE THESE THINGS, THE TRIPLE E AND OXFORD NOT FAR FROM US, I HAVE MY FAMILY LIVING THERE AND I TELL THEM, DONT GET OUT. SOME EXPERTS BELIEVE THAT CATCHING TRIPLE E MIGHT MAKE PEOPLE IMMUNE TO THE DISEASE. FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES, BUT SHIRLEY BARLOW IS NOT TAKING ANY CHANCES. SHE US