Lodi officials revamp lottery process for fireworks booths after last year's snafu
The Lodi Fire Department accepts applications from local nonprofits to operate "safe and sane" fireworks booths in the week leading up to Independence Day. All applicants are placed in a lottery and six are chosen to operate booths, given they and the fireworks vendor submit the proper paperwork. Another six are placed in a queue in the event the application process goes awry.
This year, the department will be extending the amount of time nonprofits have to apply for booths.
"My number one concern through this whole thing is safety" Ken Johnson told the Lodi City Council Wednesday evening.
"Any time you're bringing things that explode into the community, it causes me a little concern," he said. "And I want to make sure we have a process where we have good actors who participate in this process and we have a safe season."
The department hosted a fireworks workshop at Carnegie Forum on Monday, and several nonprofits interested in operating booths were given applications for the lottery, which are due by Monday, March 30. Fire department staff and the city clerk's office will take 48 hours to review the applications, and nonprofits must have been in in Lodi for at least one year with a a minimum 10 members who live within the city limits.
The lottery will be held Friday, April 11, where six nonprofits will be selected at random to operate the booths, Another six will be selected as alternates in the event one or more of the lottery winners fail to meet requirements or are unable to participate in fireworks sales.
Lottery winners will have until Friday, May 9 to submit their applications to operate the booths. If a lottery winner cannot operate a booth, an alternate will be notified no later than May 21, and they will have until June 9 to submit an application.
Applications will again be reviewed over a 48-hour period by fire and city clerk staff.
Each nonprofit selling fireworks must have a safety operator on site at all times, and the department will host training classes in early June.
Booths will be set up on Tuesday, June 24, and fire department staff will inspect them on Saturday, June 28. If a booth passes inspection, nonprofits can then begin selling the fireworks until 10 p.m. on July 4.
The revised process comes after all six nonprofits that won last year's lottery were denied the ability to operate booths after paperwork had not been completed.
The six alternates were then chosen to operate the booths, but not before rumors spread that fireworks would not be sold in Lodi due to the denial of the original applicants.
Don Pascarella. a representative of TNT Fireworks, said the revised process was a great effort to make things easier for the nonprofits who sell his company's products.
He said last year's error was a miscommunication with St. Peter Lutheran Church.
"When they submitted the 10 names (of members), one was listed as living on Kettleman Lane," he said. "But it was on Kettleman Lane outside the city limits. You's think, because this church has been in town 100 years, they would have people in the city limits. But they were disqualified."
Johnson said the department has always made it clear that members of a nonprofit must live within the city limits, and that these new 48-hour review periods will help alleviate a lot of miscommunication issues.
Councilman Mikey Hothi said after last year's error, he was glad to see a new process in place and that the fire department was willing to help applicants through it.
"This process has been a nightmare for the last two years," Hothi said. "Especially last year, when all of us were dragged in the media and everywhere else because of shortcomings."
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13-08-2025
'I assume the worst': Internal texts and emails show confusion, concern among Kerr County river authority officials during flooding
As the Guadalupe River overflowed in Kerr County on the Fourth of July, officials with a local agency charged with "managing water quality and water quantity" in the Texas Hill Country appeared perplexed by the extent of the unfolding crisis and their role in addressing it, according to emails and text messages obtained by ABC News. "Wow!! It's a beautiful thing!" an official initially wrote to an Upper Guadalupe River Authority (UGRA) group chat at 7:09 a.m. -- including a screenshot of a graph showing a massive increase in streamflow levels along the river in Kerrville -- following drought conditions that Kerr County had faced prior to the flooding. As others in the group chat shared the increasingly concerning reports they were hearing, it quickly became clear that there was cause for alarm. "So I know I said it's a beautiful thing earlier," the official wrote at 7:38 a.m. "I had just woken up and hadn't looked at the gages yet. It's terrible." By that time, parts of Kerr County had already been inundated with floodwaters for several hours, flood alerts had been issued, and the Kerrville Police Department had received calls for multiple water rescues. "When it all settles back down, it will be a totally different river," an individual identified as maintenance technician Kevin Molenaar wrote. 'Any word on Camp Mystic?' The staggering toll of the flooding would not become apparent for days. More than 130 deaths were ultimately reported across the region, with many of the fatalities occurring at Camp Mystic. On July 4, one official texted Dick Eastland, the camp's president, "You are in my prayers." There was no response. Eastland, who also served as the treasurer for the UGRA's Board of Directors, died during the storm alongside multiple young campers and counselors. "The poor children at the camps and their parents," an official wrote in a group chat. "And so many people here in RVs for the 4th." The communications were released in response to a request filed by ABC News under Texas law. They paint a picture of confusion and concern throughout Independence Day, with some text messages stating that water gages in Hunt and Kerrville had stopped reading. In other messages, UGRA representatives posted what they had learned from news outlets or on social media. "There are missing people and possibly missing kids from mystic but that is not confirmed," an official posted at 9:47 a.m. Less than two hours later, the official typed, "They are saying now all camp mystic accounted for. Praise the lord." An individual identified as natural resources manager Shelby Taber responded, "Glad to hear camp mystic is all safe!" But by mid-afternoon, the UGRA's senior leadership appeared to realize the situation at Camp Mystic was more dire -- though they did not know specific details. "Any word on Camp Mystic?" UGRA board president William Rector emailed general manager Tara Bushnoe at 2:41 p.m. "I bet we may find some financial assistance for establishing our Floor Warning System!" Bushnoe responded at 3:12 p.m. that she only knew what she had seen on a local news website indicating "there are some girls missing" and that the camp had issued a statement that aired on a local newscast. "I don't know if a flood warning system would have made enough difference," Bushnoe wrote. "I think it would have made some, but this happened so quickly. We will have to be careful with our messaging to be respectful of the devastation." "Very true." Rector wrote back. "I think working behind the scenes is going to be the most appropriate action at this time. We, however, need to be concerned that the county does not try to sieze [sic] control." Contacted by ABC News regarding the messages, officials with the UGRA did not respond to a request for comment. 'Vulnerable to flash floods' ABC News previously asked the UGRA for any flood after-action reports it may have created over the last 25 years following other storms along the Guadalupe River, but a law firm representing the authority said that they "have no responsive information." Documents released over the last month show that concerns over the risks posed by the Guadalupe River in Kerr County were widely known ahead of the Fourth of July floods, with the UGRA being particularly cognizant. As ABC News previously reported, the authority submitted an application last year to state officials seeking a $1 million grant from the Texas Flood Infrastructure Fund for a project called the "Kerr County Flood Warning System" that would have included "high water detection systems at 10 low water crossings." "Since 1932, approximately 35 lives have been lost in floods in Kerr County. Many of those lost were in vehicles attempting to cross flooded roads," the application noted alongside a timeline of deaths between 1987 and 2016. However, in October 2024 the UGRA declined to continue applying for funding from the Infrastructure Fund, with Bushnoe writing in a letter at the time that although Kerr County was "vulnerable to flash foods," the project would have been "only eligible for a 5% grant." "We will continue to explore options to implement a Kerr County flood warning system and financial assistance opportunities," Bushnoe's letter said. The letter did not note who decided that the project would have only been eligible for a 5% grant. The UGRA later reached an agreement with a company called Kisters to develop a different flood warning system that would have consisted of a "centralized dashboard to support local flood monitoring and emergency response." The agreement, which was signed exactly one month before the July 4 floods, indicated that the project was expected to cost more than $70,000. A kick-off meeting was scheduled for mid-July, but the plans were put on hold after the floods. It remains unclear what happened to the plan crafted in 2024 for the $1 million flood warning system. Kisters did not respond to ABC News' request for comment following the floods. 'We'll be getting lots of calls' July 4 was supposed to be a day of celebration in Kerr County, with a major Independence Day fireworks event called " Fourth on the River" scheduled to take place just a stone's throw from the Guadalupe River. Instead, it became one of the most tragic days in Central Texas history, with scores of people unaccounted for after sunset. At the Upper Guadalupe River Authority, some staff members discussed the significance of the catastrophe among each other. "I am hopeful they find more survivors tonight, but I assume the worst for the missing," natural resources specialist Travis Linscomb texted another staffer at 11:48 p.m. "Hopefully this will push the early flood warning topic to the forefront and we get more done this time around," Linscomb added. "Unfortunately it seems like it takes major loss of life to get the ball really rolling on it like Blanco 2015 did," an apparent reference to another flood a decade ago. As the calendar turned to July 5, the UGRA team grappled with how to explain their role as inquiries came in, according to the communications. "I have a feeling we'll be getting lots of calls from very angry people asking why we let this happen because they want someone to blame and I'm going to have no idea what to tell them," one official wrote at 7:21 a.m. The lack of an effective flood warning system in Kerr County would become top of mind in the hours, days and weeks after the banks of the Guadalupe overflowed. A committee of Texas legislators is now investigating the circumstances surrounding the July 4th floods. "Some of the comments I'm seeing are saying things along the lines of 'how is there now [sic] flood warning system in 2025?'" an employee wrote to Linscomb early in the morning on July 5. "I want so badly to tell them that there is soooooo much more to it than just snapping your fingers and making it happen. Red tape, money, equipment that may not even survive a flood (like we saw today), etc." "I can't imagine just being asleep then waking up to your rv floating away with you and your family in it and there is absolutely nothing you can do," the employee said. "The fear and helplessness people must have felt is gutwrenching."
Time Business News
24-07-2025
- Time Business News
How Travelers Can Celebrate Indian Independence Day Responsibly?
India's Independence Day is a vibrant national celebration. Tourists of Delhi Darshan packages are often drawn to its color and culture. Excitement fills the air but responsibility must be remembered. The day is not only for fun and photos. Deeper meaning should be understood and respected. Certain behaviors are best avoided during this time. What should be done will be revealed next. Flag hoisting ceremonies are held in many public places. The national anthem is played after the flag is raised. Silence should always be maintained during this special moment. Mobile phones should be kept on silent or switched off. Photos can be taken only if permission is given. Standing still is considered a sign of deep respect. Traditional Indian clothes can be worn by respectful travelers. Outfits like kurta and saree are often appreciated locally. Bright colors are usually preferred during festive national events. Sacred symbols should not be printed on any clothing. Clothes must be kept clean and worn properly always. Offensive designs should be strictly avoided in all cases. Cultural attire should be chosen with care and understanding. Local customs must be respected through thoughtful clothing choices. Sacred places are often visited during Independence Day events. Loud music should not be played in these areas. Dancing and shouting must always be strictly avoided there. Peaceful behavior is expected by everyone in such spaces. Prayers are often being offered by local worshippers nearby. Quiet steps should be taken when walking around temples. Respect must be shown through silence and gentle actions. Sacred places should be treated with calm and care. Parades are enjoyed by many on Independence Day morning. Streets are often filled with people and food stalls. Waste should be thrown only in dustbins provided nearby. Plastic bottles must not be dropped on roads or parks. Clean surroundings are seen as a sign of respect. Littering is considered rude and must be avoided always. Public spaces should be kept neat by all visitors. The Indian flag should always be treated with full respect. It must never be placed on the ground or floor. Torn or damaged flags must be handed to authorities. The flag should not be used as clothing or decoration. Proper handling rules must always be followed by everyone. Folding should be done carefully after each use. The flag must be carried straight and never dragged. Honor should be shown through every small action. Photos of locals should not be taken without permission. Smiles may be given but consent must be asked first. Privacy is valued and must always be respected by travelers. Faces should not be shared online without clear approval. Offense can be caused by unwanted or sudden pictures. Trust can be built by asking in a polite way. Local culture must be honored through careful photo behavior. Respectful actions will always be remembered and appreciated. India's freedom struggle should be studied before the celebration starts. Brave leaders were followed by millions during the long fight. Important events must be remembered with care and respect. Stories of sacrifice should be read by all travelers. Knowledge can be gained through books or short documentaries. Deeper meaning will be felt by understanding the past. The day must not be seen as just festive. Real value is added through learning and reflection. Local markets are often set up during Independence Day events. Handcrafted goods can be bought from nearby small shops during Delhi to Agra bus tour. Traditional items are usually made by skilled local workers. Fair prices should be paid without too much bargaining. Local foods can also be tried from trusted vendors. Support is shown when money is spent thoughtfully there. FAQS What should I do during the flag hoisting ceremony? Stand still in silence and keep your phone on silent or off. Is it okay to take photos during Independence Day events? Only take photos if you have permission especially in public ceremonies. Can I wear traditional Indian clothes as a tourist? Yes but make sure they are respectful and free of sacred symbols. Should I be loud during Independence Day celebrations? No stay quiet especially in sacred or religious places. How should I treat the Indian national flag? Always treat it with full respect and never place it on the ground. Can I take pictures of local people? Only if you ask for and receive their permission first. Why should I learn about India's independence? Understanding the history adds deeper meaning to the celebration. Is littering acceptable during Independence Day events? No always use dustbins and help keep public areas clean. Can I bargain with small shopkeepers during the celebrations? Light bargaining is okay but fair prices show respect and support. Why is it important to follow local customs on this day? Respecting customs avoids offense and shows cultural appreciation. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Hill
14-07-2025
- The Hill
Camp Mystic not accredited nationally, eight others in Kerr County are
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The words 'American Camp Association Accredited' are what several parents tell KXAN investigators they look for before deciding on a summer camp. 'I have personally considered ACA accreditation a must for considering a camp for my own kids to attend,' one parent wrote to KXAN, adding that he likes the numerous checks around safety measures. The American Camp Association, or ACA, is a nationwide voluntary accreditation program for day and overnight camps across the country. The association said 76 camps operating across Texas are accredited, including eight in Kerr County, but not Camp Mystic. The all-girls Christian summer camp lost more than two dozen campers and counselors after the deadly Independence day flooding on the Guadalupe River. 'Our mission is to support those that operate camps, to advance practices around health, safety, risk management and program quality and so, you know, our hallmark program around that is our accreditation program, which is the only set of national standards around health and safety for camps,' explained Henry DeHart, interim president and CEO of ACA out of Indiana. DeHart added that the association encourages camps to work with local emergency responders and allow them to review safety measures. He said to become accredited, which includes annual fees, a team is sent to work with each camp and review safety practices in detail. According to ACA, there are an estimated 20,000 camps nationwide. DeHart explained more than 2,300 have the ACA accreditation. 'We have standards specifically around, 'Do you have an emergency plan, and have you thought through all of your location-specific potential risks around that emergency plan? Have you trained your staff around it, and do you rehearse it before campers get there? And so, what is your communication plan in a crisis? Oftentimes cell services are down, so do you have a backup plan?'' DeHart explained. Camp Mystic, which is licensed by the state, is a member of the Camping Association for Mutual Progress, or C.A.M.P. The state association said online that its goal is to 'raise health and safety standards for all camps.' KXAN investigators reached out to C.A.M.P leaders, but they have not yet been able to provide details about safety standards. 'Our hearts are with everyone affected by the devastating floods in Kerr County. We are deeply saddened by the loss of so many in our state, and our camping community,' said a recent post on the C.A.M.P. website. The post further explained that the association does not govern or accredit camps and members are regulated by the state. Additionally, it said C.A.M.P. serves as a resource for education and support to strengthen the camp community through the spirit of cooperation, collaboration and the collection of ideas. 'The safety and well-being of every camper is, and always will be, the top priority of camps,' said the post. 'Right now, our focus is on supporting the camps, campers, and families impacted by this heartbreaking event. We also remain ready to work closely with state and local leaders to ensure every child who visits our camps is safe, supported, and cared for.' State inspection reports for Camp Mystic obtained by KXAN investigators show the camp had just finished its annual inspection two days before the deadly flash flood. The Department of State Health Services found the camp had the required emergency plans, including written ones in case of a disaster. The state agency said youth camps are required to have those plans posted clearly in every building. DSHS reviews emergency plans onsite during an annual inspection. Camp Mystic has yet to respond to emails asking for comment. ACA said this is a good time for camps to review emergency procedures and see if there are any details which need to be tweaked. DeHart added if parents are feeling anxious, they should ask about what happens if the camp has to be evacuated and how the camp will stay in touch with local emergency service teams, especially if cell service is down. 'Parents have reasonable questions right now,' DeHart said. 'All across the country, camps are proactively trying to reach out and connect with parents, help them understand the planning that they have done, the procedures they have in place.' He urges parents to reach out to their camps directly and learn more about emergency plans in place including communication with families during a disaster. 'I worked at camps in North Carolina, so we had to worry about hurricanes. We actually had to evacuate for a hurricane once, but we had all of those things in place. We had busses, we had location, we had supervision, we had a way to feed the campers. So, parents can ask questions like that, and camps will be eager to share those details with the parents,' he said. DeHart said a team has already met with Texas Sen. John Cornyn about ways to support Texas camps during this time. He added that it's been encouraging how other camps have stepped up and are willing to help. He's heard stories of camps offering to take in campers from impacted areas saying, 'We have some open spaces. Let us work with your parents to get your campers to our camp … so your camper still get a camp experience.'
