Latest news with #AngelaAlsobrooks
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Lawmakers announce $800,000 for high-speed internet access
WASHINGTON — Western Maryland will receive $800,000 in federal funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission to expand broadband connectivity and increase access to reliable, high-speed internet. U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, and U.S. Rep April McClain Delaney, all Maryland Democrats, announced the award in a joint statement Friday. 'In today's world, access to the internet is an essential service — for families and businesses alike,' Van Hollen said. 'This federal investment from the Appalachian Regional Commission will help further close the digital divide that Allegany and Garrett counties have faced for far too long. Not only will this project deliver high-speed internet to local households, it will also generate new opportunities that will help the region's economy grow in the years to come.' The funding will support the Garrett County Middle Mile Infrastructure Project and fund the construction of about 138,288 feet of middle-mile fiber optic cable across Garrett and Allegany counties. 'I know this investment will support our economy and the lives of so many Western Maryland families,' Alsobrooks said. The new fiber optic network will improve internet connectivity in areas of the counties where access gaps have persisted. It will also support a new e-commerce distribution center that will help strengthen the supply chain and support business growth in the region — while making the counties more attractive for additional investment in the future. 'This ARC investment in middle mile infrastructure will strengthen our region's digital infrastructure so that families, students, and small businesses are not left behind. I will also keep fighting for the resources that Allegany and Garrett Counties need to attract business investment and further workforce development,' Delaney said.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Lawmakers announce $800,000 for high-speed internet access
WASHINGTON — Western Maryland will receive $800,000 in federal funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission to expand broadband connectivity and increase access to reliable, high-speed internet. U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, and U.S. Rep April McClain Delaney, all Maryland Democrats, announced the award in a joint statement Friday. 'In today's world, access to the internet is an essential service — for families and businesses alike,' Van Hollen said. 'This federal investment from the Appalachian Regional Commission will help further close the digital divide that Allegany and Garrett counties have faced for far too long. Not only will this project deliver high-speed internet to local households, it will also generate new opportunities that will help the region's economy grow in the years to come.' The funding will support the Garrett County Middle Mile Infrastructure Project and fund the construction of about 138,288 feet of middle-mile fiber optic cable across Garrett and Allegany counties. 'I know this investment will support our economy and the lives of so many Western Maryland families,' Alsobrooks said. The new fiber optic network will improve internet connectivity in areas of the counties where access gaps have persisted. It will also support a new e-commerce distribution center that will help strengthen the supply chain and support business growth in the region — while making the counties more attractive for additional investment in the future. 'This ARC investment in middle mile infrastructure will strengthen our region's digital infrastructure so that families, students, and small businesses are not left behind. I will also keep fighting for the resources that Allegany and Garrett Counties need to attract business investment and further workforce development,' Delaney said.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Braveboy wins special election for new Prince George's County Executive
The Brief A special election is being held in Prince George's County Tuesday as residents decide on the next county executive. The election was triggered by the departure of former County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, who was elected to the U.S. Senate in November. Voters are choosing between two candidates: Democratic State's Attorney Aisha Braveboy and Republican Jonathan White. PRINCE GEORGE'S CO., Md. - Voters headed to the polls in Prince George's County on Tuesday for a special election to choose a new county executive. The race was between two candidates: Democratic State's Attorney Aisha Braveboy and Republican Jonathan White. Polls closed at 8 p.m. Just before 9 p.m., it was announced that Braveboy had won the election and she delivered a victory speech. READ MORE:Prince George's County Election Day: Voters to elect new County Executive Big picture view The election was triggered by the departure of former County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, whose move to a higher office — in the U.S. Senate — set off a chain reaction of vacancies and resignations across local government. The winner of the election will serve the remaining two years of Alsobrooks' term. Whoever wins will inherit a series of major challenges. This year alone, Prince George's County has seen the Washington Commanders announce plans to return to D.C., the cancellation of the new FBI headquarters project and confirmation that Six Flags will close at the end of the year. Braveboy previously told FOX 5 that she views these issues as opportunities and is especially concerned about the impact on federal employees in the county. "I recognize how critical the federal government has been to the success of Prince George's County," she said. "But that is not our only success. What we have to do now is shift. We have to pivot, and we have to grow our commercial tax base and bring more industry into Prince George's County." "It affects everything," she added. "It affects also our tax base, because a lot of these federal government employees are also homeowners. They own property here in Prince George's County, so we are very concerned about our federal employees." Like Alsobrooks, Braveboy currently serves as Prince George's County State's Attorney. However, Alsobrooks did not endorse her, instead backing another candidate in the Democratic primary. What they're saying Election officials say they have seen strong turnout through early voting and mail-in ballots. Still, turnout in special elections—especially in June—can be a challenge. But many voters say they believe showing up to the polls is part of their civic duty. "I care about who is going to be our county executive, so it's important as taxpayers as we move along," one voter said. "We have to support our candidates. We have to make sure voting counts. It's a privilege to make sure we do it every year," another voter added. "Democracy. Representation. And in order to have representation, you have to participate," another told FOX 5. Some voters stressed that local elections matter just as much as national ones. "Local elections, in my opinion, are almost more important—or just as important—as voting in national elections," one resident said. "I teach my kids about the election to understand it's our right to vote. It's given to us," said one parent. What's next Braveboy was considered the front-runner in the race and held her rally in Lanham Tuesday night. FOX 5 reached out to Republican Jonathan White, who responded by email that he was not available for an interview.
CBS News
4 days ago
- General
- CBS News
Maryland leaders react to targeted attack that injured 8 in Colorado
Maryland leaders are sharing their support for the Boulder, Colorado, community after eight people were injured in a targeted attack, according to the FBI. The attack on Sunday, June 1, occurred during a rally for Israeli hostages. CBS News reported that the suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, used a flamethrower and threw Molotov cocktails to burn people. Soliman is facing federal hate crime charges after he was allegedly heard yelling "Free Palestine" as he attacked people. The incident is being investigated as an act of terrorism. Maryland leaders react to Colorado attack Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said he spoke to the governor of Colorado after the attack. "We witnessed yet another horrific act of antisemitic violence," Gov. Moore said in a social media post. "This was an attack not just on individuals, but on the very principles we stand for as a nation." "Maryland stands with Colorado, and we stand united with the Jewish community and all communities targeted by hate," he added. "We must meet this moment with unity and a refusal to be intimidated by those who seek to divide us." Sen. Angela Alsobrooks also shared a post saying, "Antisemitism has no place in our country or anywhere in the world. We must remain steadfast in our efforts to oppose this hatred." Holocaust survivor among victims of Colorado attack During the attack, people were seen on the ground as others tried to help with water. Two people were flown to a hospital burn unit, and four others were transported and later discharged from a hospital, witnesses told CBS News. An 88-year-old Holocaust survivor was among the victims injured in the attack, CBS News reported. "The fact that a Holocaust survivor was among those wounded is a sobering reminder of the enduring threat of antisemitism and the urgent need to protect those who have already suffered so much," Maryland Congressman Glenn Ivey said in a statement. Attacks on Jewish community Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen said that the incident in Colorado was the second targeted attack against the Jewish community in two weeks. It comes after two Israeli Embassy staffers were shot and killed in Washington, D.C. on May 21. A Chicago man was arrested for the shooting that left a young couple – Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim – dead in front of the Jewish Museum, according to CBS News. The suspect, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez, was heard chanting "Free Palestine" as he was being taken into custody, similar to the attack in Colorado. "Violence and hate must have no refuge in America," Sen. Van Hollen said in a social media post. "This is the second attack on the Jewish community in two weeks. As we pray for the victims in Boulder, we must redouble our efforts to fight antisemitism and hate in all its forms."
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Flood damage estimated upward of $78 million, Delaney's office says
WESTERNPORT — Damages from floods that consumed southwestern Allegany County nearly three weeks ago are estimated upward of $78 million, U.S. Rep. April McClain Delaney's office said Friday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency since Wednesday has been assessing the area, although no decisions or timeline have been established for help. On Thursday, local and state emergency management officials updated the congresswoman on the extent of damage, ongoing response and recovery efforts. 'I'm committed to working in lockstep with the governor and our U.S. senators to help Mountain Maryland in their time of need,' McClain Delaney said. 'This will be a true bicameral effort to secure as much federal funding as possible,' she said. 'Our entire delegation must come together to lift up (the Allegany and Garrett county area) to ensure it has the resources and support it needs to recover, rebuild and thrive.' 'Ready to work' Aspects of the flood recovery were highlighted at the Allegany County Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday. 'We are still receiving federal support,' Commissioner Bill Atkinson said, adding that U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks was expected to tour the area Friday. 'The Small Business Administration disaster loan assistance is on site, for low-interest disaster loans for flood-effected homeowners, renters, nonprofits and businesses,' he said. Crews from Royal Plus Disaster Cleanup Crews from Royal Plus Disaster Cleanup work Friday inside the Westernport Town Building, above. At right, Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton unloads a shipment of five-gallon buckets donated by Menard's of Morgantown, West Virginia. County Attorney T. Lee Beeman said a draft lease agreement with Beitzel Resources in Grantsville was finalized. 'They've been kind enough to donate warehouse space to us,' he said, adding that the area will be used to store flood relief items. County Administrator Jason Bennett said post-flood work continues in Westernport. 'All of our crews are currently up there,' he said. Commissioner Creade Brodie said he was grateful for people and agencies who helped 'with the recent devastation of the flood' in Allegany County. 'It did a number to us,' he said, thanking 'all four mayors of the crick,' regarding leaders of the lower Georges Creek region. 'What really amazed a lot of people from Midland to Westernport was the citizens that jumped in and helped,' Brodie said. 'Everyone showed up ready to work and ready to help.' Commissioner President Dave Caporale said more help is wanted. 'If you can give funds, supplies or your time, these folks still need it,' he said. 'We've got a long way to go.' Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton was at the meeting to thank county officials and workers for their support as her town recovers. Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton unloads a shipment of five-gallon buckets donated by Menard's of Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, May 30, 2025. She talked of Caporale 'scraping up floors one night, helping our rescue squad.' Brodie 'has checked in with me ... several times,' Hamilton said. 'A lot of our homes are damaged, we're still digging out mud,' she said. 'But, you guys have been wonderful ... I truly appreciate everything that you guys have done.' Across the country Jonathan Dayton is president of the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association in Allegany and Garrett counties. He was raised in Westernport and is an active volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician. The town's Potomac Fire Company No. 2 on Main Street sustained roughly 2 feet of water in the flood, Dayton said. The department is working with its insurance company as it navigates needed repairs, including new interior walls. 'It's kind of a waiting game,' Dayton said, adding that financial donations are appreciated. 'Insurance doesn't cover everything.' After the May 13 flood, the fire company's demand in the community grew by roughly 80% and included rock slides, water in basements, downed trees and electrical emergencies, he said. 'We've seen a major increase in calls,' Dayton said. Meanwhile, 'the fire station is still operational,' he said. 'It's been a very busy two weeks (and there's) a lot of work that still needs to be done,' Dayton said. He thanked volunteer emergency responders and mutual aid from departments across the region, including in West Virginia and Pennsylvania for their help during the flood. Robert Pattison Jr. and Shane Fazenbaker Potomac Fire Co. No. 2 members, from left, Robert Pattison Jr. and Shane Fazenbaker wash one of the department's engines Friday at the Main Street station in Westernport omn Friday, May 30, 2025. Westernport's Potomac Fire Company No. 2 Chief Tim Dayton said proactive approaches, such as rebuilding with metal walls, are being explored. He hopes the fire station is renovated within a couple of months. Tim Dayton talked of his gratitude for folks, many who came from across the country to support the tiny town's recovery. 'The outpouring of the citizens and the people coming in to help ... is unbelievable,' he said. Next door, Tri-Towns EMS was also flooded. 'Tri-Towns EMS suffered severe damage to our building due to the recent flooding,' a GoFundMe page for the organization stated Friday. 'Our entire basement was submerged, and the damage extended throughout the first floor of our station.' Tri-Towns also lost 'several thousand dollars worth of vital medical supplies, as well as furniture, office equipment and essential materials critical to our day-to-day operations,' the page stated. 'Spirit of service' Frostburg State University this week opened its doors to Westernport Elementary School staff and students. The May 13 floodwaters reached the second floor of their school and required roughly 150 students and 50 adults to be evacuated by boat and a high-profile vehicle. Due to extensive damage from the flood, the elementary school will be closed for the remainder of the academic year. The school of 295 students and staff will utilize space on the FSU campus until June 6. 'In the wake of the devastating flood, Bobcat Nation was happy to offer our support to Westernport Elementary School,' FSU Interim President Darlene Brannigan Smith said via press release. 'I'm proud of our staff who stepped up to quickly formulate a plan to provide learning spaces in our Education and Health Science Center for these elementary students — and dare I say future Bobcats.' FSU's Children's Literature Centre, which is housed in the EHSC, will be used for office space and provide supplemental lessons and activities for the students. 'Coincidentally, this year's school partner in the Children's Literature Centre's Adopt-A-School Program is Westernport Elementary School,' the release stated. In addition to spaces in the EHSC, the Westernport group will have access to Frostburg's fields and gymnasiums for physical education and recess, and space will be reserved in FSU's Lane University Center for student meals. 'Breakfast and lunch are being provided courtesy of the university's new food vendor, Aladdin, who only just began their contract with FSU on May 23,' the release stated. 'So many departments across our campus should be commended for working together to make this a reality for these children,' Smith said. 'Thanks go out to staff in the EHSC and CLC, Aladdin, FSU campus police, our facilities and athletics departments, our Lane Center and university bookstore, printing services and academic and student affairs.' Westernport's teachers were on campus Tuesday for an orientation and welcome session in preparation for the students' Thursday arrival. Students were greeted by FSU staff as well as a surprise visit from Frostburg's mascot, Bob E. Cat. Westernport Elementary School students and Bob E. Cat Westernport Elementary School students are greeted by Frostburg State University's mascot, Bob E. Cat, on Thursday, May 29, 2025. 'We are truly excited to have our family back together, and with the help of FSU, this is possible,' Westernport Principal Derek Horne said via the release. 'Our hearts are warmed by their generosity.' According to the release, FSU student volunteers on the night of the flood provided bedding and hygiene kits for stranded victims. The FSU Department of Athletics provided access to campus laundry facilities for a Lonaconing nursing home that was without water for four days. 'The efforts of our students, faculty, staff and administrators demonstrate the true spirit of service and all that FSU stands for,' Smith said. 'We're just so glad that something positive was able to come out of this tragedy.' Ways to help Checks can be sent to Potomac Fire Company No. 2, PO Box 326, Westernport, MD 21562. A GoFundMe to support Potomac Fire Co. No. 2 and Tri-Towns EMS will close June 7. Tri-Towns EMS also has its own GoFundMe page. Tri-Towns is selling 'Stronger than the Storm' shirts to raise funds for its rebuilding efforts. A variety of styles are available and range in price from about $20 to $40. Learn more at The Western Maryland Strong Fund states it was created 'to provide a secure and reliable repository for contributions, ensuring support reaches individuals and families impacted by the flooding with flexible aid for evolving needs.' Learn more at
