Latest news with #Rollo
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Firefighter Romance Is The New 'It' Genre — 8 Books To Read Now
There's something undeniably compelling about a firefighter romance novel. Maybe it's the adrenaline-fueled drama of the job or the quiet moments of vulnerability that contrast with their brave exterior. Whatever it is, these stories are always packed with passion and emotional intensity. So, if you're ready to meet some heroes who risk it all (on the job and in love), here are our top firefighter romances guaranteed to heat up your next reading session. In Into the Flames, Jennifer Bernard introduces us to Rollo, an elite wildfire firefighter trying to outrun the expectations of his wealthy family. Torn between duty and the high-society life he's supposed to lead, Rollo is forced to choose between his passion and the responsibilities that come with being an heir to a banking fortune. Meanwhile, Brianna, his plant-loving best friend, is navigating her own discomfort with dating (and a growing attraction to Rollo). As feelings ignite and lines blur, a family emergency causes their worlds to collide. Save the Last Dance is a sweet and suspenseful romance that follows former model Kimber Klein as she searches for a fresh start in Ohio. She's traded in fashion runways for library volunteer work and gets to bond with sisters she never knew she had. But Kimber's new life is clouded by fears that a stalker from her past might've found her. Enter Gunnar Law, a firefighter and single dad who steps in to help when her car's tires are slashed. And as danger creeps in, so does their chemistry. Rekindle the Flame brings Chicago firefighter Beck Rivera back to the one woman who ever really got under his skin: an heiress-turned-tattoo-artist named Darcy Cochrane. Years after their teenage romance went up in smoke, a chance encounter at Beck's family bar during the holidays reignites old feelings. At first, their reunion is rocky, but their chemistry runs hotter than ever. Rekindle the Flame is actually a prequel to the Hot in Chicago series and is perfect for anyone who loves a fast-paced romance. Penelope Turner, a soldier and firefighter, was once hailed as an "American Princess" after surviving months of captivity in the Middle East. But once she returns to Texas, she's far from healed. In Shelter for Penelope, she's haunted by survivor's guilt and missing memories, unsure of whether she can trust herself. But Tucker "Moose" Jacobs refuses to give up on her. He's quietly loved Penelope for years, and now, he's determined to help her reclaim her strength. In classic Nicholas Sparks fashion, The Rescue is an emotional journey full of heartbreak and healing. Volunteer firefighter Taylor McAden is known for risking everything to save others, but when it comes to being vulnerable, he always flees. Yet, that changes when he pulls Denise Holton from a wrecked car during a storm and discovers her young son has vanished. As they work together to find him, Taylor starts to form a bond with Denise that rivals his lifelong fear of love. Things You Save in a Fire centers on Cassie Handwell, a skilled firefighter who thrives in chaos. However, when she relocates to Boston to care for her estranged mother, she finds herself in a really traditional firehouse and gets treated like an outsider. Since Cassie wants to prove herself, she tries to ignore the rookie who keeps catching her eye. But the more she shoves her feelings down, the more she realizes that vulnerability might just be the bravest thing of all. Rowan Tripp is a seasoned firefighter who's still reeling after losing a partner in the line of duty. So, after she returns to Montana for a new season, she's determined to stay focused (until rookie Gulliver Curry arrives). Sparks start to fly between them, and at the same time, Rowan is forced to confront a dark threat from her past that could destroy everything she's worked for. Chasing Fire is a good fit for those who love suspense and emotionally charged romance. Fireproof is a heartfelt story about a man learning what it really means to love. Firefighter Caleb Holt is a hero at work, but his marriage is in serious trouble. With divorce on the table, he takes on a 40-day challenge called "The Love Dare" in hopes of salvaging his relationship. Then, what starts as a reluctant effort transforms into an emotional journey that reignites his love for his wife and his sense of purpose. For even more recs, be sure to sign up for our so you never miss a thing! Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Irish Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Faithless announce Irish gigs this summer in tribute to late frontman Maxi Jazz
Faithless is set to perform in Ireland this summer in a tribute to iconic late singer, Maxi Jazz. The British artist, whose real name was Maxwell Fraser, died at the age of 65 "peacefully in his sleep" in 2022. Former bandmates Sister Bliss and Rollo have now decided to go back on the road and the pair will make their debut in Limerick on Friday, June 6 with an intimate show at Troy Studios. It's part of a two-night tour called 'Ireland Underground' with a show in Derry on Saturday, June 7. Sister Bliss said: "We cannot wait to come and play for you in Ireland, these are up close and personal warehouse shows and we will see you up at the front!" While this is the first Faithless show in Limerick, they have strong Limerick links, with Rollo having spent his childhood summers visiting his Limerick cousins and the musical force that is Sister Bliss having played a legendary DJ set at the long-departed Docs nightclub in the 2000s. The first release of the tickets were an instant sell-out and now a second round of tickets has been released at Sister Bliss and Rollo have risen to the challenge of touring without iconic front man Maxi, collaborating with show designer Jvan Morand, bringing Faithless back to its roots in an uplifting celebration of their music and a heartfelt tribute to Maxi Jazz.
The Courier
06-05-2025
- Sport
- The Courier
'Dependable' Dundee solicitor Ian Rollo Steven dies aged 90
Ian Rollo Steven, a widely respected Dundee solicitor and lifelong supporter of Scottish sport, has died at the age of 90. He passed away peacefully on April 12 at Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, after suffering a stroke earlier in the month. The keen skier, yachtsman and curler remained fit and engaged and was looking forward to the start of his fishing season. He worked for many years as a senior partner in Rollo, Steven and Bond (later RSB Macdonald and then Lindsays) and was Dean of the Faculty of Solicitors and Procurator in Dundee. Paying tribute, youngest daughter Kate described her dad as a '100% dependable', loyal presence. She said: 'If anyone ever refers to dad as the 'late' Ian Steven…late isn't something you could ever say about dad. 'He would take the train before the train he was meant to be on. He was 100% dependable. 'If he said he would be there for you, whatever the reason, he undoubtedly was.' Born on February 5 1935, at Duneaves Nursing Home in Broughty Ferry, Ian Steven was the only child of Robert 'Rollo' Steven, and Phyllis Steven (née Langford Holt). His parents met through the arts at the Dundee Rep, where Phyllis was an actress and playwright. The couple raised Ian with a strong sense of duty, heritage and creativity. Ian was the nephew of two officers, Harvey and Sidney Steven, who were killed at the Battle of Loos in 1915 while serving in the Black Watch. Educated first at Lathallan School from the age of six, Ian went on to Trinity College, Glenalmond in 1948 aged 12. By the time he left in 1953, he had captained the football team, played in the rugby 1st XI, represented the school in golf and served as Keeper of Fives. Keeper of Fives is the equivalent to the captain of any particular sport at any particular establishment the sport is played at. He studied law at the University of St Andrews, a degree he earned while apprenticing full-time with the Dundee legal firm Shield & Kyd. Attending university classes from 4pm to 6pm and studying into the evenings, he was among the final generation to be awarded the traditional Bachelor of Law degree, before the course was restructured as an LLB. Ian formally began his legal career in 1953 as an apprentice at Shield & Kyd. During his training, he acted as clerk to John Kyd, then secretary of the Jute Importers Association. In 1957, he joined his family's firm, Rollo, Steven and Bond, where he would remain for more than 50 years. Throughout his career, Ian was a general solicitor in the traditional Scottish sense – handling everything from court appearances and estate law to conveyancing and company formation. From his first day he was assigned to the Poors Roll, representing clients pro bono in the local courts of Angus, Fife and Perth. He became senior partner in 1976, guiding the firm through several transitions – eventually becoming RSB Macdonald, and later part of Lindsays. He also served as Dean of the Faculty of Solicitors and Procurator in Dundee during the major redevelopment of Dundee Sheriff Court. After retiring from legal practice in 2003, Ian remained as a consultant closely involved with the charitable sector. He chaired or served as a trustee for numerous local organisations, including the Isabella Smith Trust, the Smith Housing Association, the Mair Robertson & Peter Benevolent Trust, and Clova Kirk. Beyond the law, Ian's life was marked by a deep love for the outdoors and sport. A lifelong resident of the Tay area – living in Barnhill, Tayport and finally Newport-on-Tay – he always kept his home within view of the river. He also maintained a deep connection to the Angus glens, spending weekends at the family cottage in Glen Clova. He played rugby and cricket in his younger years but became more deeply involved in skiing, sailing, curling and fishing as the decades went on. In the 1950s and '60s, he was part of an elite group of Scottish ski racers, competing for – and winning – national titles. As race convenor for Dundee Ski Club and later for Scottish National Ski Racing, he went on to chair the main committee for British Men's Racing, including the Olympic team. He also contributed to the early development of the Glenshee ski area, helping to build the first ski tow at Meall Odhar. He was also honorary president of Dundee Ski Club. As a sailor, he was a lifelong member of the Royal Tay Yacht Club, competing in both local and regional regattas. His early Enterprise-class dinghy was humorously named GoesUnder, later replaced by an Osprey-class boat named Loki, after the Norse god of mischief. In both, he raced frequently and successfully, earning honours such as the Lawson Cup. Curling became a lifelong passion, both on frozen lochs and modern rinks. Ian estimated he had curled outdoors on more than 100 occasions. He was a devoted member of the Broughty Ferry Curling Club, which he twice served as president. He was still playing and winning matches in 2025. His social life in earlier years also included dancing. Ian was a popular presence at Invercarse ceilidh dances in the 1950s and 60s and was known for his lively footwork and impeccable timing – attributes that remained part of his character throughout his life. In 1969, he married Hilary 'Joy' Eilbeck in Aughton, Lancashire. He enjoyed a happy family life with their two daughters, Sarah Steven (Loveday) and Kate Steven. Ian is survived by his wife Joy, daughters Sarah and Kate, and his grandchildren Andrew and Zoe Loveday. A service of thanksgiving for Ian's life is being held at St Margaret's Church, Barnhill, Dundee, on Tuesday May 6 at 2pm.
News.com.au
28-04-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
Trump is now more annoying than the cost of living crisis
US President Donald Trump has officially become more of a headache than the price of groceries, with Aussies now ranking him as one of the most annoying figures in their lives. Mr Trump rating as the most irritating figure in Australians' lives jumped from 2 per cent in January to 29 per cent in March. He now ranks higher than groceries, bills or local politicians. These findings from a survey of 2503 Australians by the Lighthouse Consumer Tracker: March 2025 Update, conducted exclusively by the News Corp Australia's Growth Intelligence Centre (GIC), came before Mr Trump's large-scale rollout and subsequent withdrawal of international tariffs with the current figure likely to be even higher. Researcher and teacher at the Centre for International Security Studies at the University of Sydney Dr Stuart Rollo said media saturation was the most likely driver behind the increased annoyance but that it also indicated a deeper more widespread anxiety. 'People will usually be annoyed by whatever they're seeing in the media constantly and of course Trump is the biggest news story every day,' Dr Rollo told '[Trump] as well absolutely has a sort of crudeness, bullying style that we don't tend to associate with politicians. Australians tend to like the mild mannered politician, the every day friendly politicians which Trump certainly isn't. 'But I also think Australians are finally waking up to the fact that the world is changing, we've benefited hugely from the America governed and shaped world and region in the last 80 years and Trump represents the wilful demolition of that American lead world order.' ''America first' Trump says he represents so strongly and this just represents the unknown for Australians and whether they're conscious of that fully or not I think it's something that really scares Australians to death,' Dr Rollo said. The increase in Trump annoyance was driven largely by Baby Boomers and Dr Rollo said it makes sense that those who 'have lived in this system their entire lives would be the least comfortable with change'. And it's not just Aussies annoyed by Mr Trump, with a Washington Post -ABC News-Ipsos poll published in the US this week, revealing his approval rating is lower than any past president at the 100-day mark in their first or second terms. Just 39 per cent of adult Americans gave Mr Trump their tick of approval, compared with 55 per cent who disapprove, and 44 per cent who disapprove strongly. With the federal election campaign entering its final week, the Lighthouse survey also found Aussies are getting increasingly annoyed with their own politicians. The percentage of Australians who find politicians annoying increased from 33 per cent in January to 40 per cent in March, and particularly so for older voters who both parties are trying to win. Dr Rollo said he was unsure about the age divide but sympathised with voters fed up with politicians. 'I don't know whether it's concentrated in Boomers but I think young people should be and are particularly disillusioned about politicians now,' he said. 'Quite the opposite to Donald Trump, we have a system that never changes. Politicians keep coming out saying the same things they've been saying for 15 years now and yet the economic conditions of Australians are in decline, the prospects of quality of life especially for young people are in decline – that's why I find politicians annoying.' With the rise in international tensions the defining question for many Aussies remains the prospect of war outbreak. Dr Rollo believes the way wars are waged and control is maintained has changed dramatically over the past 80 years. 'I think the US planned pretty well and I think they've known for a while now that they can't sustain a direct war with China or Russia, it just wouldn't be popular but they don't actually have a direct national security reason to – their people are not at threat, their world control system is,' he said. 'So I think they'll be doing things similar to what's happening in Ukraine where they support a proxy to try to weaken a rival. The citizens of that proxy state will be the ones doing the dying and then they can cut and run when it suits them as well, so they'll probably be looking to use Taiwan and other states in Asia in that way against China. 'Whether those states will let themselves be used is another question and I think those states have seen what's happened to Ukraine and got the message. I think Australia has hopefully as well.' Dr Rollo believes the period of US dominance is coming to an end and the landscape of international politics will redistribute into a more 'multi-polar' system. 'I think the US has recognised that it can no longer afford to support a system that is actually dispersing strength rather than concentrating it and now they are reversing the very lines of empire that they built for 80 years and they're now creating a system where all of that industrial strength, the financial and economic systems are actually working towards concentrating all of that wealth and power back in the US and that's going to look very different for American allies than it has in the past. 'America will be able to direct a higher, more interventionist style of dominance with a range of countries, Australia will probably stick within that American sphere of influence. But it will benefit us less and it will impose more costs on us so we will become an even larger American military and intelligence space and they'll pressure us to cut our economic relations with China and alter them in a way that will be massively damaging to our economy.' With foreign policy a key battleground issue going into the election Dr Rollo believes it's a rare moment where the difference between political parties in Australia actually matters. 'I think the Liberals are tighter with the US and they don't even see it as desirable that Australia should have an alternative sort of sovereign independent foreign policy and our own defined position in the region. I think Labour has both tendencies, the 'all the way with the US no matter what' tendency has been winning since Obama but I think as the costs in the US start turning the screws on Australia to sacrifice our economic partnership with China then I think Labor will probably get it back to slightly more independent. 'I don't think we should just abandon the US alliance but I think we need to start actually actively seeking to shape the terms of it in ways that benefit us, not just being a passenger the whole way.'
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
What is the 2025 Lubbock ISD bond on the May election ballot? Here's what you need to know
Lubbock residents living inside the Lubbock Independent School District boundaries will see a single proposition on the ballot in May — a $290 million school bond package. The requests come before voters after LISD Trustees agreed to send the bond to voters, which includes several key ticket items including building three new schools for six schools being consolidated next school year. Original Reporting: Lubbock ISD sends $290 million bond to voters in May 2025 election. Here's what to know With questions about how the bond came about, what it entails and if it will impact your tax rates, here's what you need to know before heading to the polls on May 3, 2025 or when early voting starts April 22. LISD Superintendent Kathy Rollo said the projects the bonds would fund come from a facilities assessment the district did, which found over $400 million worth of needs across the district "We also have over 6,000 empty seats in our elementary and middle schools," Rollo said. "We have a declining birth rate in Lubbock ISD, and then 63% of our facilities are over 60 years old." After identifying these key hurdles and issues facing the district, LISD formed a committee comprised of students, teachers and citizens to help narrow down projects and decide which ones need to be prioritized. The committee formalized its recommendations to LISD's Board of Trustees, who unanimously agreed to send the identified recommendations to the public to vote on. Here is a breakdown of what the LISD bond will fund and how much is going to each initiative. Efficiancy: $151 million. Construction of three new elementary schools (Bean-Hodges, McWhorter-Wolffarth and Williams-Stewart elementaries). Kitchen/cafeteria addition at Rush elementary. Science lab addition at Atkins Middle School. Capital Renewal and infrastructure: $75 million. Update roofing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, locker room renovations, high-priority kitchen updates, parking, paving and drainage improvements at 32 campuses. Academic programming: $47 million. Middle school auditorium and fine arts renovations. Atkins Middle School science lab renovations. Expansion in the Culinary Arts, Health Professions and Advanced Welding programs at the Byron Martin Advanced Technology Center. Safety and security: . Update Security film, door replacements, access control servers, fire alarms, security cameras and fencing improvements at 30 campuses. The short answer is no - at least not the tax rate. Rollo said voters approved the current tax rate of 17.5 cents per $100. Since LISD paid down debt from the 2018 bond, the district is able to take on more debt without raising the tax rate. However, Prop A will include the phrase "THIS IS A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE" on the ballot. "That came out of the 2019 legislation that that language had to be on there," Rollo said. "The state says that is because anything above (our) M&O — which is set by the state — is a property tax increase." For context, the state set M&O (Maintenance and Operations) tax rate helps fund school districts' general operating budgets. The 17.5 cent tax is the I&S (interests and sinking) tax rate that LISD can levy to fund debt services. Rollo stressed again that the 17.5 cent tax rate will not change with this bond, but that language is required on the ballot. Dig Deeper: Lubbock ISD trustees blame state, funding issues for school closures No. LISD's general operating fund is funded by the M&O tax rate set by state lawmakers. Rollo said this is where teachers' pay comes from, along with helping the district pay for day-to-day operational expenses. According to LISD, money from the M&O tax rate cannot be used for long-term capital projects. It is through the I&S tax rate that school districts are able to fund capital projects. "For the most part, (I&S) can only be used for brick and mortar types of things," Rollo said. "We don't have enough money in our maintenance and operations to fund those kinds of projects." Rollo also said I&S can not be used for district operational expenses or teachers' salaries. "Whatever happens with the legislature doesn't impact this," Rollo said. With six elementary schools set to consolidate into three schools next year, Rollo said the current infrastructure cannot handle that kind of influx long-term. New schools would allow the district to avoid certain costs associated with maintaining six separate schools. Rollo pointed to the district's new Carmona-Harrison Elementary — which combined Jackson, Guadalupe, and Wright elementary schools — as a proven track record of this, having saved the district $1.8 million in the first year it opened. However, the benefits of consolidating the school are far beyond just saving the district money. "When you have five teachers per grade level, you have more people to collaborate with, to plan with, to share those extracurricular duties as assigned," Rollo said. "You have more wraparound services for kids." Rollo said those services include additional Title 1 resources, a full-time counselor and assistant principal — which are often shared between smaller schools — and additional educational support staff for students. Rollo said students and staff will have to continue using the existing buildings, with the district having to spend more on them for maintenance and operations. "That limits our ability to provide raises," Rollo said. "It limits our ability to provide the programming that we offer, we're gonna have to make some hard decisions — we're doing that anyway, but it's it's gonna make that even more challenging." Election day is on Saturday, May 3, 2025 with early voting beginning on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 through Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Visit to see where polling locations are. Mateo Rosiles is the Government & Public Policy reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip for him? Email him at mrosiles@ This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: $290 million Lubbock ISD school bond package on May election ballot
