Latest news with #PamelaChristian


CBS News
2 days ago
- Climate
- CBS News
Fireworks fly, safety takes center stage at Richmond's annual July 3 celebration
The City of Richmond held its annual fireworks show a day early. This happened as the city is cracking down on illegal fireworks being set off in their community. Fireworks blasted off into the night sky as a packed crowd gathered at Marina Bay Park. Some people came early and prepared. Pamela Christian's family set up these igloo tents to stay warm during the show. "Every year, the July 3rd celebration is windy," said Christian. "So we learned from the first one." This is a way for the city to provide a fun and safe way to enjoy fireworks. "I think we're constantly having conversations to make sure that we provide a festive and celebratory environment for our citizens but also making sure we constantly consider safety," said Deputy Fire Chief Rico Rincon with the Richmond Fire Department This year, the city is cracking down on illegal fireworks. Residents say the fireworks start weeks before the 4th of July and can go into August. "My street is probably one of the busier ones," said Marissa. "I can sit on my front porch and see fireworks for miles." The police department will have more than 20 additional officers patrolling the streets to crack down on the problem on the 4th of July. Those caught could face fines up to $1000. "This year we're going to have more cops on the streets than ever," said Chief Bisa French with the Richmond Police Department. "We're going to be using the drones so we can actually catch people in the act because we know the toll that's taken on our community over the years, and we want to have an impact on that." The only issue on this night may have been the chilly wind. The fog even stayed away long enough for people to see a spectacular fireworks show. "I think it's real special to have it here so everybody can come together and enjoy it," said Christian.

Associated Press
04-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Whimsical Wings Farms Unveils Patented Shipping Box for Live Milkweed Plants and Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle Kit
LILESVILLE, N.C., April 3, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Whimsical Wings Farms, a leader in butterfly conservation and pollinator education, is proud to announce a breakthrough in plant shipping: a patented box designed to safely deliver one-gallon milkweed plants. Paired with the farm's engaging Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle Kit, the innovation supports nationwide habitat restoration efforts and hands-on environmental education. The shipping box, co-developed by co-founders Donna Pless and Pamela Christian, allows for the secure delivery of full-grown, potted milkweed plants across the eastern United States. Traditional methods often result in damaged plants or root shock, but this custom-designed container ensures the milkweed arrives healthy, intact, and ready to support monarch caterpillars immediately. 'This patent came from years of problem-solving,' said Donna Pless. 'Our goal was to make it possible for anyone – gardeners, schools, families – to receive mature milkweed without the risks of bare-root shipping or unreliable starter plants.' In addition to the shipping innovation, Whimsical Wings Farms offers a Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle Kit, which includes a live caterpillar, a rearing habitat, fresh milkweed, and step-by-step care instructions. The kit allows children and adults alike to witness the transformation from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly, providing a personal connection to nature and the challenges monarchs face. About Whimsical Wings Farms: Located in Lilesville, North Carolina, Whimsical Wings Farms has a long history of pollinator education, butterfly farming, and conservation. With their patented packaging and educational kits, they're removing barriers to environmental action and bringing the beauty of monarchs directly to homes and classrooms. The patented box and Monarch Lifecycle Kit are now available for purchase at: Whimsical Wings Farms, 120 Whimsical Lane, Lilesville, NC 28091 NEWS SOURCE: Whimsical Wings Farms Keywords: Environment and Ecology, butterfly conservation, Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle Kit, habitat restoration, Whimsical Wings Farms, Butterfly kit, monarch butterfly kit, butterfly lifecycle kit, LILESVILLE, N.C. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Whimsical Wings Farms) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P125295 APNF0325A