Latest news with #SouthernComfort
Yahoo
6 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Adair County: Driver more than triple the legal limit arrested
Jun. 4—Osvaldo Moran-Salas, 22, of Des Moines, was taken into custody 12:50 a.m. May 25, in Adair on the charge of driving while barred. According to an Adair Police report, at approximately 11:54 p.m May 24, Moran-Salas was observed driving a John Deere Gator UTV with no headlights or taillights on Delta Ave/Fifth Street. The UTV pulled into the Casey's General Store in Adair and Moran-Salas exited from the driver's position. His information was ran and he was found to have a barred license. Moran-Salas was transported to the Adair County Jail where he was released from after posting $2,000 cash or surety bond. — — — — — Tracey M. Fazio, 57, of Des Moines, was taken into custody 9:45 p.m. May 26, at the westbound rest area of Interstate 80 in Adair on the charge of OWI, first offense and issued a citation for open container. According to an Iowa State Patrol report, at approximately 6:45 p.m. a 2009 Pontiac G6 pulled into the the rest area and hit a semi-trailer. The Pontiac had been previously reported for erratic driving. When troopers arrived at the rest area, the Pontiac was still making contact with the semi, but neither had reportable damage. Contact was made with the driver of the Pontiac, identified as Fazio, who had slurred, thick-tongued speech and required assistance when walking to the patrol car. The odor of an alcoholic beverage was detected coming from the vehicle. Fazio handed troopers an open bottle of Southern Comfort that was approximately two-thirds empty. She admitted the bottle was full when she started drinking. Fazio consented to field sobriety testing during which clues of impairment were observed. She consented to a PBT, which indicated her BrAC to be .286%. Fazio was transported to the Adair County Jail where she consented to provide a breath sample for testing. The test indicated her BAC to be .272%. Fazio was released from the Adair County Jail after posting $1,000 cash or surety bond. — — — — — Jason E. Caldwell, 53, of Stuart, was taken into custody 10:56 p.m. May 27, in the 1700 block of Sheldon Avenue in Stuart on a Guthrie County warrant for the charge of failure to appear. He was released directly to the custody of Guthrie County Sheriff's Office. — — — — — Silas J. Foster, 18, of Fontanelle, was taken into custody 3:23 a.m. May 30, at East Iowa and Northeast Fourth Street in Greenfield on the charges of OWI, first offense and possession of alcohol under age 21. According to an Adair County report, at approximately 2:39 a.m. a 2005 Buick LeSabre was observed in a parking lot of the northwest corner of the intersection with its lights on and the driver's side door open. Deputies did not believe it was occupied initially from a distance. After approaching the vehicle, a male was observed lying in the driver's seat. The keys of the car were still in the ignition and an open bottle of alcohol was observed in the front passenger's seat. The male, later identified as Foster by an ID found in a wallet in the door of the vehicle, appeared to have vomited on himself. He initially resisted instruction to exit the vehicle, but finally did and was sat on the ground near the back of his car. Foster was dry-heaving, very unsteady on his feet and unable to answer questions in a manner that made sense, including being able to say where he was. EMS was called to assist. A probable cause search was conducted of the vehicle. Open alcohol containers and a used vape cartridge were located, which Foster is not of age to possess After being checked by medics, Foster consented to field sobriety testing and showed indicators of impairment. He refused a PBT. Foster was transported to the Adair County Jail for further testing. He consented to provide a breath sample for chemical testing, the result of which indicated his BAC to be .143%. Foster was cited and released on a summons to appear.
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Yahoo
This Quaint Louisiana Town Is A Paradise For Antiques Lovers
Each state has its hidden gems—places beloved by locals but often overlooked by those beyond its borders. Louisiana has plenty of them, including the charming northern part of the state. Often bypassed for New Orleans and Lafayette, northern Louisiana remains underexplored. But for towns like Minden, it's well worth a detour. Founded in 1836 as a stagecoach stop along early trade routes, Minden has grown into a small town known for its charm, character, and tight-knit community. Its downtown is a portrait of preserved brick facades and storied storefronts. Locally owned shops are filled with antiques and handmade goods, while restaurants and cafés serve up a true sense of Southern comfort. You'll find natural beauty, too—from scenic bayous to quiet lakeside corners. Nicknamed "The Friendliest City in the South"—a title proudly painted across a welcome mural—Minden wears its hospitality with ease. This is the kind of place where a weekend away can feel like a return home. Whether you're here for the food, the history, or some of the best antiquing in the state, here are 12 things to do in Minden, Louisiana. Related: 15 Most Beautiful Places In Louisiana, According To Locals Louisiana is known for its scenic waterways, and Webster Parish is home to some of the best water adventures in the state. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Pleasure Point Bayou Dorcheat Rentals, and spend a sunny afternoon surrounded by the moss-covered trees and peaceful waters of Lake Bistineau, Caney Lake, or the Dorcheat Bayou. 318-245-4809 The fun doesn't stop at kayaking. Take full advantage of the day-use spots at Caney Lakes Recreation Area, located inside Kisatchie National Forest, where activities include camping, fishing, waterskiing, and more. Hike along the 6-mile Sugar Cane Trail, or go for a swim at the sandy beach shoreline. If you want to venture out a tad bit further, Lake Bistineau State Park offers five trails, great fishing, and an 18-basket disc golf course—all framed by majestic cypress trees. 1163 Par Rd 116 Minden, LA; 318-927-2061 103 State Park Rd, Doyline, LA 71023; 318-745-3503 Founded by German settlers in the 1830s, Minden has plenty of unique history up its sleeve. Learn all about the town's roots at the Germantown Colony Museum, where three buildings from the original colony still stand. Then, dive into more of the region's rich past at the Dorcheat Historical Museum, home to a large collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits. True-crime fanatics will want to visit the Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum, just 20 minutes away in the neighboring town of Gibsland. It's not every day that you get to cast a line alongside one of the world's top competitive fishermen, but on the waters near Minden, anything is possible. Book a trip through Red River Guide Service and spend the day fishing with Homer Humphreys, a local with over 40 years of tournament bass fishing under his belt. 122 Monarch Ln, Minden LA 71055; 318-371-1411 Take in the beauty of over 70 historic buildings, from quaint cottages to large Greek Revival homes. Then, embark on a mini mural tour, starting with the welcome mural that proudly proclaims the area as the 'Friendliest City in the South.' Don't forget to snap a photo by the vintage Coca-Cola mural—funded by the soda company in the '90s—and the colorful 'Love Over Everything' artwork located just across from Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery. Minden is an antique lover's dream. Whether you're on the hunt for a dazzling brooch or a charming piece of Southern decor, your options will be plentiful. Start your adventure at Heavenly Treasures antique mall, where you can browse over 50 booths filled with collectibles, decor, and furniture. Then, make your way to Possibilities Antiques and Collectibles—not only known for its great deals but also its meaningful mission, providing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities a chance to gain skills and contribute to the community. Uncover even more gems at Kim's Attic and FlipFlop Resale. If you're a thrift connoisseur, you won't want to miss Mercy's Closet. A hearty breakfast and a strong cup of coffee are always a good idea, and in Minden, you have two great spots to choose from. The Broken Bean offers build-your-own breakfast sandwiches to pair with a specialty drink and a side of beignets. Over at Brick Street Coffee, housed inside a renovated hardware store, the menu features breakfast sandwiches, loaded toasts, sweet and savory sandwiches, waffles, smoothie bowls, and plenty more. 107 McDonald St, Minden, LA 71055; 318-639-9540 509 Main St, Minden, LA 71055; 318-639-9076 For a wholesome lunch that contributes to a meaningful cause, locals point to this faith-based bistro in downtown Minden that serves salads, sandwiches, and more. The eatery is part of owner Jodie Martin's larger mission to nourish both body and spirit, partnering with recovery programs to offer work opportunities for women overcoming addiction. You might have even seen this spot on HGTV, when Home Town Kickstart gave it a stylish makeover in 2022. 801 Broadway St, Minden, LA 71055; 318-299-2359 If authentic Louisiana-style seafood is what you're after, head to this beloved spot owned by local councilman Buddy Myles. Go for the fried shrimp, fried oysters, crab legs, and of course, the boiled crawfish (when in season). Other customer favorites include the crawfish cheese nachos and the jambalaya dog. 302 E Union St, Minden, LA 71055; 318-639-9020 Don't let the modest exterior fool you—this no-frills roadside spot has been dishing up some of the best barbecue in the area since 1955. At Neta's Bar-B-Q, you can order by the pound or even have your protein custom smoked. The chopped beef sandwich is a must, piled high with tender, smoky meat and just the right amount of sauce. Make sure to pair it with curly fries and the house-made root beer. 1433 Shreveport Rd, Minden, LA 71055; 318-377-5675 Situated just beyond the edge of downtown Minden, these eight boutique-style rental units feel like pages from a design magazine brought to life. Each villa is uniquely styled and thoughtfully named by Minden Stays host Sara McDaniel. In the evening, unwind on the shared patio, where string lights and wooden porch chairs invite lingering conversations with fellow guests. 224 W Union St, Minden, LA 71055; 318-299-0274 Beyond the Villas, McDaniel offers a collection of equally charming rentals with walking distance to the downtown district. For larger groups, consider The Cottage on Fort, a mid-century modern oasis ideal for a family getaway. This four-bedroom, five-bed retreat is available on Airbnb and accommodates up to eight guests. Meanwhile, history lovers will appreciate The Fuller House Upper Room, a renovated 1905 loft originally found on the National Register of Historic Places. Decked out in soft pink and vintage accents, this cozy one-bedroom escape is perfect for a girls' weekend or solo retreat. 519 Fort Ave, Minden, LA 71055; 318-299-0274 Read the original article on Southern Living
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Yahoo
Former South Florida resident guilty of manslaughter in scuba diver's death
FORT PIERCE — A former resident of St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties was found guilty Tuesday in the death five years ago of a 37-year-old diver who got caught in a boat propeller off Riviera Beach and drowned, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida. Dustin McCabe, who was 49 on Thursday, was convicted by a federal jury of seaman's manslaughter in the death of Mollie Ghiz-Flynn on March 29, 2020. Ghiz-Flynn and her husband Sean Flynn were residents of Melbourne when she died, the Palm Beach Post reported. McCabe, now of Ocala, was also found guilty of lying to the U.S. Coast Guard, and additionally, of COVID-19 relief fraud. McCabe faces up to 10 years in prison for manslaughter, up to five years for lying and up to 20 years for wire fraud. Sentencing is scheduled for June 12 before U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon. Attempts to reach McCabe or McCabe's lawyer were unsuccessful Saturday. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, McCabe bought a 48-foot boat in early March 2020, named it Southern Comfort, and lied on Coast Guard forms that he was going to use the boat for recreation. He really intended to use the boat to make money by taking people scuba diving, federal prosecutors said. McCabe retrofitted the boat for that purpose, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. On the day before Ghiz-Flynn's death, McCabe took people scuba diving twice, federal prosecutors said. The boat malfunctioned more than once, federal prosecutors said, including during the pickup of a diver. The port-side propeller started spinning even though the engine was in neutral, prosecutors said, sucking the diver toward the propeller. The diver barely escaped injury, prosecutors said. The following day during a dive at Breakers Reef, located off the coast from the Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach County, the boat malfunctioned again, according to the Palm Beach Post and prosecutors. As Flynn and Ghiz-Flynn were boarding Southern Comfort following a dive, the propeller sucked Ghiz-Flynn toward it, according to the Palm Beach Post and prosecutors. Ghiz-Flynn got caught in the propeller. It cut and mangled her, keeping her under water, and she drowned, federal prosecutors said. More: Indiantown at risk of losing nearly $1 million in revenue because of a filing delay More: Brightline talks between Martin County, Stuart deadlock over philosophical differences Following the woman's death, McCabe was prohibited from operating Southern Comfort, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. But prosecutors said McCabe applied for COVID-19 relief money through the paycheck protection program, which was meant to help small businesses survive the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. McCabe claimed his business was active, prosecutors said, and he filed fraudulent payroll records and fake tax documents to support his claim. Keith Burbank is TCPalm's watchdog reporter covering Martin County. He can be reached at and at 720-288-6882. Reporting by former longtime Palm Beach Post staff writer Eliot Kleinberg contributed to this story. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Former South Florida man convicted Tuesday in scuba diver's death
Miami Herald
07-03-2025
- Miami Herald
Diver died while tangled in propeller off Florida, feds say. Boat captain found guilty
The captain of a diving boat has been found guilty of seaman's manslaughter after one of his passengers died tangled up in the propeller, according to federal prosecutors in Florida. Dustin Sean McCabe, 49, of Ocala, faces the possibility of 20 years in prison on charges associated with the operation, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida said in a March 6 news release. McClatchy News reached out to McCabe's attorney for comment on March 7 but didn't receive an immediate response. The victim was identified as Mollie Ghiz-Flynn, 37, and she died March 29, 2020, at the Breakers Reef dive site, 1.5 miles off Palm Beach Inlet, maritime attorney Michael A. Winkleman reported in a news release. She was accompanied by her husband, Sean Flynn, he said. 'Mollie and Sean were finishing their first dive when they were waved over to the boat by Dustin McCabe. McCabe put the boat in reverse and both divers were sucked under and Mollie's legs became entangled in the propellers,' Winkleman said in the release. 'Along with the help of several other individuals, Sean was able to free Mollie from the propellers, but it was too late.' An investigation revealed the propeller 'twisted her leg up in its shaft, holding her underwater.' 'A medical examiner testified that while the victim's many deep chop wounds and leg fractures were not fatal on their own, they caused serious pain that contributed to the victim's death by drowning,' federal officials said. McCabe's trial was held in Fort Pierce and a jury found him guilty of 'seaman's manslaughter (both in his capacity as boat owner and boat captain of the vessel named Southern Comfort), lying to the Coast Guard, and committing COVID-19 pandemic relief fraud,' officials said. Among the revelations made during the trial: McCabe was illegally running 'paid scuba charters' with his boat, and the same propeller had nearly injured someone the day before Ghiz-Flynn died, officials said. 'On March 28, 2020 ... the Southern Comfort experienced significant mechanical malfunctions that included one of the vessel's port side propeller engaging when the vessel was in neutral during the pickup of a diver, which led to the diver being sucked toward the propeller and narrowly escaping,' federal officials said. 'Despite the close calls, McCabe took more paying divers out the next day, on March 29, 2020, without reporting the prior day's incidents to the Coast Guard, warning his passengers of what had occurred, or fixing the boat.' The diver's death resulted in McCabe being prohibited from operating his boat, and he 'was never again seen working at the marina,' federal officials said. Additional charges were added after McCabe falsely listed his business as operational while applying for two loans from a COVID-19 federal relief program created to help small businesses during the pandemic, officials said. His applications included 'fake tax documents to support the lie,' officials said. McCabe's sentencing is scheduled for June 12 and he 'faces up to 10 years in prison for seaman's manslaughter, up to five years for making false statements, and up to 20 years for wire fraud,' officials said.
