BAINBRIDGE ISLAND A public records lawsuit accusing the city of Bainbridge Island of mishandling text messages from a City Council members personal phone has been dismissed.

The lawsuit, filed last June in Kitsap County Superior Court, centered on the destruction of council member Rasham Nassars personal iPhone in June 2018 and text messages islanders David Dunn and Brian Wilkinson had sought as part of records requests with the city.

Both sides agreed to dismiss the claim in June, according to court documents. In an interview with the Kitsap Sun, Dunn and Wilkinson said their move to end the lawsuit was a financial decision.

They just outspent us, Dunn said.

According to city filings in the case, the phone was accidentally destroyed when Nassars young son soaked the device in the contents of a can of olives on a road trip. Nassar said that attempts to revive the device were unsuccessful and the ruined phone was turned in at an Apple Store after she was told by a technician that no data was recoverable from the device.

The city couldnt produce the messages because, it said in a filing, Council member Nassars iPhone was accidentally destroyed nearly three months before the requests that are the subject of this lawsuit were made. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to Council member Nassar, she had not backed up her iPhone for more than six months before it was accidentally destroyed. Thus, notwithstanding her and her familys valiant efforts to retrieve the text messages from her iPhone through Apple and Verizon, any messages on the iPhone were ultimately unrecoverable.

I feel empowered by the verdict, Nassar said in an interview with the Kitsap Sun. Everything I did was consistent with the law, and the verdict affirms that.

Nassar said she felt she was targeted because of a vote she cast in favor of controversial updates to environmental codes that protect critical areas, what she described as a minor land use violation at her home and because of her background.

Do I believe I was repeatedly targeted? Yes. Primarily because of who I am. I openly campaigned as the Palestinian daughter of immigrants. But also because of my commitment to stopping the island from being overdeveloped.

Said Dunn: (Nassars) insinuation that this had anything to do with who she is highly defamatory and completely untrue, he said. This is all about transparency in government.

My hope is moving forward, and I think something came of this, is that it made them very aware that some citizens are paying attention, some citizens are watching, some citizens are concerned, Wilkinson said. I think thats a good thing, because that is basically the only kind of checks and balances in government. That and the media covering these things. Other than that, its the fox minding the henhouse, and that is kind of terrifying.

Nathan Pilling is a reporter coveringBainbridge Island, North Kitsap and Washington State Ferriesfor the Kitsap Sun. He can be reached at 360-792-5242, nathan.pilling@kitsapsun.com or on Twitter at @KSNatePilling.

Consider supporting local journalism in Kitsap County:Sign up fora digital subscription today.

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Public records lawsuit against city of Bainbridge Island dismissed - Kitsap Sun

For decades, Georges Island has been a bit of a mystery.

Nestled in the heart of the Halifax harbour, the island can be plainly seen from the waterfront. But because of a lack of infrastructure, like water and electricity, the island has been closed to most of the public.

But on Saturday, that all changed.

On Thursday, the federal government announced the public will be able to visit Georges Island throughout August on weekend boat tours.

READ MORE: Georges Island: public granted access to historic island in Halifax harbour

Saturday marked the first day of its reopening, and for history buffs alike, it was a long time coming.

If youve never gone here, you have to come, said visitor Rachael Ingles. The tour of the tunnels are eerie but cool. The prison house is cool, its just oh so cool.

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The tunnels were actually really neat, going on the guided tour through all the tunnels. And nice views of Halifax, said visitor James Pearson.

The island was designated as a historic site in 1965. It was fortified by the British military in 1750 and served as a detention centre during the deportation of Nova Scotias Acadian population between 1755 and 1763.

Its military installations include Fort Charlotte, which is known for housing two seaward-facing artillery batteries, and an underground tunnel complex.

Plans to open the site date back to the 1990s. There was intent to open it to visitors earlier in the summer, but that was stalled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Saturdays and Sundays throughout August, Ambassatourss Harbour Queen is ferrying passengers from Cable Wharf for Georges Island. The boat leaves every 40 minutes from noon to 5 p.m.

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READ MORE:Passenger ferry to Halifaxs Georges Island on deck for this summer

Tickets cost $25 and Parks Canada recommends booking early, as theyre selling quickly.

Wed really like people to visit the website, make sure theyre well prepared, said Theresa Bunbury with Parks Canada. So you get your ticket, you come on the boat, youll come across weve got guides stationed around on the path up at Fort Charlotte, and just wander around a little bit and enjoy the views.

The island will remain open until Labour Day, when it will once again close until next season.

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2020 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

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Access granted: Halifax harbour's Georges Island opens to the public - Global News

Hawaii Department of Transportation announced weekend road and lane closures for Aug. 7-9. Lane closure schedules may change at any time without further notice. All projects are weather permitting.

KA

Closure of single lane at a time on Mmalahoa Highway (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 28 and 32, near Crater Rim Drive and Mauna Loa Road, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., for paving work. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

Shoulder closure on Mmalahoa Highway (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 66 and 67, Kaulia Road and Mamalahoa Highway, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., for landscape maintenance.

SOUTH KONA

Shoulder closure on Mmalahoa Highway (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 84 and 87, Ohana Road and Kapua Mauka Road, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., for landscape maintenance.

KONA

Single lane closure on Kuakini Highway (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 117 and 119, Walua Road and Kuakini Highway, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., for traffic camera installation and paving work. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

Single lane closure on Kuakini Highway (Route 11) in both directions between mile markers 118 and 122, Laaloa Avenue and Palani Road, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., for landscaping work. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

HILO

Closure of single lane at a time on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) in both directions between mile markers 15 and 17, Old Mmalahoa Highway and Peleau Stream, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., for landscape maintenance. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

HILO (NIGHT WORK)

Closure of single lane at a time on Puainako Street (Route 2000) in both directions between mile markers 0.7 and 1, Klauea Avenue and Maikai Street, on Saturday, August 8, from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., for paving work. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

PUNA (24-HOUR WORK)

Lane shift on Keaau-Phoa Road (Route 130) in both directions between mile markers 7.5 and 7.9, Ilima Street and Ainaloa Boulevard, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, over a 24-hour period, for construction of the Ainaloa Roundabout.

PUNA

Single lane closure on Keaau-Phoa Road (Route 130) in both directions between mile markers 10.8 and 14.1, Kahakai Boulevard and Leilani Avenue, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., for paving work.

Single lane closure on Keaau-Pahoa Road (Route 130) in both directions between mile markers 11 and 16, Pahoa Bypass Road and Kamaili Road, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for landscaping maintenance.

HMKUA

Closure of single lane at a time on Honokaa-Waipio Road (Route 240) in both directions between mile markers 0 and 4, Hawaii Belt Road and Mauka Cane Haul Road, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., for landscape maintenance. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

NORTH KOHALA

Closure of single lane at a time on Akoni Pule Highway (Route 270) in both directions between mile markers 22 and 27, Iole Road and Waikama Road, on Saturday, August 8, through Friday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for striping work. Traffic flow in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control (contraflow).

Excerpt from:

Big Island Weekend Closures: Aug. 7-9 - Big Island Now

With patience and perseverance a mother bird holds food from her mouth and shares it with her baby birds. The babies are raising their heads and poking out their little beaks for something to eat.

I do not know which insect she had caught. I cannot see from here. From where I stand I see the little bird and the nest she has made, but they are far away. It is as far away from behind the tall fences that keep people imprisoned.

In my opinion motherhood is a symbol of sacrifice, whether it is a mother bird or the mother of a human being. It is difficult, and it is rare, to care for someone more than you care for yourself.

The mother of Alan Kurdi, the Kurdish Syrian child, must have loved him in the same way. Just imagine it makes me choke with sorrow. In order to escape war, and in hope for a decent future for her child, that mother had to flee her homeland. She left the rest of her family behind in Syria and confronted the sea, she journeyed on a decaying boat that split apart along the way. Everyone in the boat ended up in the water. Alan lost his future, and his father will never see him grow up. The mother also perished.

She had promised him a future as she packed his belongings, no doubt while the bombs were dropping and the bullets were firing. She had told him about a better place, a place where Alan would be happy. But the final images Alan saw before his life ended were the massive and furious waves that merciless swallowed him.

I think to myself that if Alan were to have survived would he be leading a happy life now?

War never brings happiness; in my view it is terrible for both sides. No one wins in the end. A good victory is one where no lives are lost in the process; no one wins when either superpowers or smaller nations sacrifice lives.

Refugees lose their lives to war, political persecution or economic exploitation they flee their homelands and no one knows whether they end up living a happy life or not. The future is unknown, no one knows what the future holds.

Like me, I have not been able to feel the touch of my mothers hands. I have not been able to hold her for all these years. It has been years since I have had the chance to see her wrinkled face, to see her fading smile, to see her staring back at me. This is what I dream for while incarcerated, locked up without ever having committed a crime. I have been imprisoned without charge, just like the young Arab man who used to sit on the dirty floor. Or the Afghan man who used to lean on the palm tree looking at the photo of his child; he would spend his time like this for six years. His child is growing up and probably does not recognise his father.

The story of each refugee is a tragedy in itself. None of these stories have an ending. Sometimes when we board those boats those floating coffins they never reach their destination.

I do not understand the contradictions, this discrimination. The land that God has bestowed on us and which we struggle over, lands from which me and people like me are banished. I am a prisoner now because I dared to dream; these dreams I will never realise.

I wanted to escape war, I wanted to flee hardship I had these dreams, I at least wanted to avoid these things in life. These are not luxuries or fancy things. I wanted a peaceful life. I still have these dreams.

The mother bird takes flight. The baby birds are still eating. Life continues. Out there, beyond the fences, where we could be leading a life of our own. But we are still in here.

A remote and isolated island surrounded by water as far as the eye can see. Where else could we go from here? I remember when we left the prison camp the sun was shining. We were restless as we sat in the bus, we were smiling. We had a reason to smile.

We thought that after six years we would be able to live a free life. That was not to be the case. We entered a city, but we would not experience freedom. Instead, we entered a multistory hotel Mantra Bell City hotel in Melbourne. This is our latest prison.

I always think to myself, what crime did I commit that I have to pay with this form of punishment? I am a simple person who just wants to live my life. I want a good life. But after what I have gone through I now have to spent months confined to a single floor, in a hotel and in a room with a few people; my world is limited to the narrow corridor of the third floor of this hotel.

Just imagine it, that your whole life and all your interactions are restricted to that one floor and that one corridor. I just want you to picture this life for yourself. You cannot go for a walk, you cannot go on a trip. Oh God, what does going for a walk even mean?

In my view, it is easier for a prisoner who knows they are making amends in prison for their wrongdoing in contrast to us who do not even know what we are being punished for.

Mardin Arvin is a Kurdish Iranian writer who has been imprisoned by the Australian government since 2013: Manus Island (2013-2019), Port Moresby (2019), and Melbourne (2019, ongoing). He works in four languages: Kurdish, Farsi, English and Tok Pisin; and he is conducting research and writing a book while incarcerated. His writing has been published in Meanjin.

Translated by Omid Tofighian, an award-winning lecturer, researcher and community advocate. He is adjunct lecturer in the School of the Arts and Media at the University of New South Wales and honorary research associate for the Department of Philosophy, University of Sydney. His published works include Myth and Philosophy in Platonic Dialogues (Palgrave 2016) and he is the translator of Behrouz Boochanis multi-award-winning book No Friend But the Mountains: Writing From Manus Prison (Picador 2018).

Read more from the original source:

From Manus Island to Melbourne: we do not even know what we are being punished for - The Guardian

Starting on Friday, islanders can feel time bend backward on a stroll through town.

Thats the opening day of Main Street Vashon: A Walk through History, a new, self-guided walking tour presented by the Vashon Heritage Museum.

The show is made up of 11-inch by 14-inch interpretative photo panels installed in the windows of 34 businesses on both sides of the original block of what became the town of Vashon, from Bank Road to the corner of S.W. 178th Street.

The photos in the panels show the earliest original building on any given spot on the walking tour or buildings that had replaced the original building. Text is added to each panel, describing the lives that were lived inside them from 1890 to the 1970s.

Laurie Tucker, head of collections for the museum, said that the highly visible historical material, displayed in so many buildings in the town core, will add context to everyday interactions on the island.

Knowing the history of the buildings causes us to look at them with fresh eyes, imagining the way the community functioned in a different era, she said.

The exhibit is a work in progress more photo panels will be added to other blocks as time and resources allow, said Elsa Croonquist, executive director of the museum.

The walking tour/exhibit has been in the works for some time but was delayed by the pandemic.

According to Croonquist, planning for the show began in the fall of 2019, with a timeline of opening the exhibit in town by April 2020.

Then came COVID, the closing of town businesses and state mandates not to promote crowds.

Now, Croonquist said, the timing is more right to unveil the work of the many volunteers who contributed to the project and to celebrate the Vashon businesses that are enthusiastically partnering to present the exhibit.

The hope is that the community can enjoy history and stories while wearing masks and practicing safe social distancing, she said. Our goal is to help promote safe reopening of businesses and allow our community to take a look at our history out in the open air.

The exhibit, she hopes, will be on permanent display. Brochures for the walking tour will be available at the museum when it reopens to the public, and at the businesses where panels are displayed.

Croonquist also suggested that viewing the exhibit during a pandemic might lend perspective to current hard times.

Weve been through other disasters, she said, mentioning four fires that have taken place in downtown Vashon including one in the 1970s sparked by the bombing of a King County courthouse.

Brian Brenno, an avid amateur historian, fourth-generation islander and well-known glass artist, is the curator of the show.

In some ways, the exhibit is a companion piece to Brennos recently published book, Town of Vashon 1890-1960, which is chock-full of old Vashon photos and settler history culled from newspaper articles, oral histories, memoirs by island residents, and O.S. Van Olindas History of Vashon-Maury Islands.

Brennos book is available for sale and order at Vashon Bookshop.

The walking tour, he said, is a tribute to the building owners and businesses that all contributed to create the Vashon that we see now.

His curatorial statement details his fascination with the settler history of Vashon, which was passed down to him by his father and grandfather, and his subsequent search to find all the information he could find about the town where he was born and raised.

This is a gift to Vashon a reminder that we are walking through our history, said Sue Hardy, co-curator of the exhibit and vice president of the Heritage Museum.

Viewers will be able to learn more about the buildings that were important in stopping the spread of the fire of 1933, the cabin that housed the Vashon Offices of King County Ferry District #1 (established by the State Legislature in 1949), the first general store built in 1890, and George McCormicks Hardware Store, which could be considered the islands longest-running family-owned business.

Which building housed updated refrigeration for meats and the first self-service counter for dry goods? Where were the locations of Vashons first hotel, meat market, telephone company and auto repair shop? Where was the movie theater built?

Find out, starting Friday, on the walking tour.

In other news from the history museum, a speaker series will continue at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, with a Zoom talk, Virginia V: Restoring a 100-year-old Ship to Glory. The speaker, longtime Heritage Museum champion Greg Beardsley, will share the history of the historic Steamship Virginia V, from her launch in Maplewood in 1921 to her service in the Mosquito Fleet, to her years bringing campers to Camp Sealth, to her years-long restoration. For more information, visit vashonheritage.org.

Night is a twofer for artist

Brian Brenno, the curator of Vashon Heritage Museums Main Street Vashon: A Walk through History, describes himself as being obsessed with island history.

That passion will be reflected in the Museums new history exhibit in windows downtown, but also, in another exhibit of Brennos artwork called In the Heart of Town, in the window Gather Vashon. Both shows open on Friday.

Well-known as a glass artist, Brenno also creates works with recycled materials. These works, first shown in the Blue Heron Gallery in 2011, include historic images of Vashon made from cut-up beer and soda cans, nailed to plywood.

His new show at Gather a continuation of his body of work made with tin was created by Brenno during the pandemic, after the publication of his recent book, Town of Vashon 1890-1960.

The show, he said, is a tribute to his grandfather and father.

My dad and grandfather were town businessmen, beginning in 1937 when my grandfather opened Brenno Service, Brenno said. Hearing them talk about the old days fostered my interest in local history. In honor of Harold and Bob Brenno, town mechanics for many years, there is a car in [most] of these images they probably worked on many of them.

See more here:

Heritage Museum launches a walking tour exhibit - Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

This weeks Galveston Island Humane Societys pets of the week are Natalie and Dolly.

Meet Natalie. This sweet momma cat was brought to the shelter as a stray with three of her babies. Her babies are now weaned and Natalie is anxiously awaiting an appointment to be adopted. Thats right, this girl never has to deal with having kittens again. Natalie is about a year old with a slick black and white coat and full of life. Shes looking for a family that will give her the occasional wet food treat, always keep her bowl full of food, and keep her heart full of love. If you want to fulfill Natalies lifetime wish of unconditional love forever and ever, apply now to adopt her.

Have you ever wanted to snuggle on the couch with Dolly Parton after working 9-5? Well, heres your chance. This lady may not have a coat of many colors as a lot of its turning gray but she does have Dollys beautiful personality. Shes as sweet as could be. She loves to lay beside her people but doesnt seem to mind a crate either. Dolly is about 12-plus years young and just keeps getting better with age. She would love a gentle hand to pet her, a soft couch to lay on and one more request, she likes chunky canned food with lots of gravy. Dolly is available for foster or adoption.

Were closed for walk-ins, but were still providing services by appointments. Please call us if you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment and keep an eye on our website and social media for up to date operational information, as well as our available animals.

Adoptions include the spay or neuter surgery, a microchip and current vaccinations. These featured pets have an adoption sponsor allowing the adoption fee of $25 for this week only.

Visit http://www.galvestonhumane.org or call 409-740-1919.

See the article here:

Galveston Island Humane Society's pets of the week - Galveston County Daily News

To restart during the coronavirus pandemic, the UFC created Fight Island, a private island where the organization hosted a few events. Fight Island is on Yas Island, a private island in Abu Dhabi. Since this city is one of the wealthiest places in the world, it had plenty of amenities for those visiting. The UFC fighters, staff, and media reportedly loved it. Here are the details.

The UAE is playing it safe when it comes to Fight Island. While its allowed the UFC to host events there, its also helped the UFC create a bubble, according to Insider. This is meant to protect UAE citizens, but also the UFCs staff and fighters from COVID-19.

As the MLB realized recently, athletes, like regular people, get bored in quarantine. In the case of MLB, some athletes decided to go party. They, unfortunately, got the virus, but Fight Island solves this problem. On Fight Island, not only are strict safety measures in place to ensure nobody has the virus. But there are also a lot of fun things to do.

RELATED: Why UFC Fighter Robert Whittaker Refuses to Trash Talk His Opponents

Even before the pandemic, the UAE has tried to make itself a tourism hub. As a result, Fight Island has many amenities that will entertain visitors during their stay. Insider wrote that it gets extremely hot on Fight Island. The temperature reportedly hovered in the 115-degrees range. But, as its an island, visitors could access plenty of beaches.

Of course, if the heat became too much, then there are also several luxury hotels on Fight Island. Many are five-star resorts. So, fighters and staff have plenty of space to rest and relax. While this sounds like a normal vacation for many people, Fight Island has far more to offer than just that.

Insider wrote that theres also a $1.3 billion racetrack nearby thats usually used by Formula 1. Insider reports that many guests chose to go on the track to do joyrides at night. Of course, golf is a popular pastime for many on Fight Island. Theres plenty of golfing to do when the racing and food arent enough.

RELATED: Darren Tills Coach Begged Him to Move to Brazil Amidst Liverpools Distractions

Furthermore, since Fight Island is a bubble where pretty much every visitor is routinely tested, social distancing isnt common. For a normal UFC event, everybody, including fighters, staff, and journalists, stays in nearby hotels. Since Fight Island is a bubble, everyone on the island is residing closer to each other.

Like Insider reported, one journalist said, Were living on top of each other, bump into one another at breakfast, and top up our sun tans on nearby recliners at the pool or at the beach.

Whats also unusual about Fight Island is that many of the people behind the scenes, like UFC President Dana White, relocated to Fight Island for the better part of a month, since the UFC was going to host four events there back-to-back.

This built up momentum to the events. As a result, and probably due to the island ideas novelty, the Fight Island events were a huge triumph. White told Insider, It was a very successful event. This thing killed it across the board. It was awesome. So, in all likelihood, the UFC will return to Fight Island soon enough.

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UFC Fighters, Staff, and Journalists Couldn't Help But Love Fight Island - Sportscasting

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Newport, RI On the market for a new home? Heres a look at what houses on Aquidneck Island you can tour this weekend, August 7 9. Good luck!

Aquidneck Island Open Houses on Whats Up Newp are brought to you byOUR Real Estate, a locally owned full service, boutique brokerage and lifestyle company.

Read more about this locally owned full service, boutique brokerage, and lifestyle company at the bottom of this story.

21 Sherman Street | $1,299,000 | 4 beds, 3.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 10 am to 12 pm

89 Roseneath Avenue | $879,999 | 6 beds, 2.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 1 pm to 3 pm

105 John Street | $739,000 | 2 beds, 1.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 10 am to 11 am

32 Hammond Street | $600,000 | 3 beds, 1.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 10 am to 12 pm

35 Hall Avenue | $595,000 | 4 beds, 2 baths

Open House: Saturday from 10 am to 12 pm

14 Russell Avenue | $539,000 | 3 beds, 1.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 11 am to 12:30 pm

93 Rhode Island Avenue #5 | $479,000 | 2 beds, 2.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 12 pm to 2 pm

210 Island Drive | $750,000 | 4 beds, 2.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 1 pm to 3 pm

11 Wyndham Hill Road | $635,000 | 4 beds, 2.1 baths

Open House: Saturday from 12 pm to 2 pm

62 Samson Lane | $569,000 | 4 beds, 3 baths

Open House: Saturday from 12 pm to 1 pm

310 Vaucluse Avenue | $540,000 | 4 beds, 1 bath

Open House: Sunday from 12 pm to 2 pm

10 Philips Avenue | $425,000 | 3 beds, 2 baths

Open House: Saturday from 12 pm to 2 pm

245 Indian Avenue | $3,490,000 | 4 beds, 3.2 baths

Open House: Sunday from 12 pm to 2 pm

3 Elm Street | $649,000 | 3 beds, 2.1 baths

Open House: Friday from 4 pm to 5:30 pm and Sunday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm

OUR Real Estate is a full service, boutique brokerage and lifestyle company. Established in June of 2019, OUR embodies a fresh take on real estate and is driven to make the search and sell process as seamless as possible. We extend far beyond what a conventional brokerage firm offers through our commitment to getting you acclimated, informed, and connected to the community. We have diligently created a culture that spurs collaboration and drives social media with creative marketing techniques. Based in Newport, RI our agents possess a quality over quantity mindset, and will work all over the state of Rhode Island to secure the perfect place for you.

OUR Real Estate is independently owned by the Principal Broker, Lauren Mailloux. Lauren was born and raised in Rhode Island. She graduated from Portsmouth High School and continued her education at the University of Rhode Island. Lauren received her real estate license and later acquired her brokerage license. She is committed to providing unwavering integrity, expertise, and negotiation skills for the sole benefit of her clients.

OUR Real Estate is located on lower Thames Street in the heart of Newport. The door to our chic and welcoming office is always open, come see for yourself why we consider ourselves the next generation of real estate.

For more info, visithttps://www.our-realestate.com/

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Aquidneck Island Open Houses: 14 homes to tour this weekend - What'sUpNewp

By Amanda Lamb, WRAL reporter

Oak Island, N.C. Brunswick County authorities cut utilities to much of Oak Island on Tuesday to encourage people to leave the area after Hurricane Isaias roared through the barrier island late Monday.

The storm surge pushed water though the bottoms of beachfront homes and buried several streets in feet of sand. Authorities said many structures aren't safe to stay in, so they want people to leave for now.

A mandatory evacuation order for visitors and residents on the western half of the island takes effect at noon Wednesday, and a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew will remain in effect for the entire island until further notice.

Katie Allen stayed in the house her family has owned on Oak Island since the 1960s until she heard it breaking apart at the height of the storm.

"I was there until pretty late, sitting in the bathtub with the lights out, with a bottle of water and my go bag," Allen said. "I'm so glad that I did get out. When I looked back at the house when I left around midnight and saw how much had already been [damaged], I was very upset and emotional."

She stayed with a neighbor and awoke to find that Isaias had washed her car away.

"[It] was banked up against this piling" under a house across the street, she said.

The car was towed away Tuesday afternoon, and Allen said she believes it's a total loss.

Derrick Palecek of Raleigh stayed at his family's vacation home on the island through the storm and said he was stunned at the devastation he saw Tuesday morning.

"I've never seen anything like this. It's the first hurricane I've ever been through. It was eye-opening to me," said Palacek, who shot drone video of the island and shared it online.

"A lot of people were already up just walking around, and it was immediate cleanup," he said. "It was 'Let's help this person dig their car out.'"

He said the hurricane experience was a one-time thing for him.

"I wouldn't do it again," he said. "It was very alarming how big just a Category 1 [hurricane] was."

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Authorities tell people to leave Oak Island, declaring much of it unsafe after Isaias - WRAL.com

Posted: Aug 4, 2020 / 12:18 PM EDT / Updated: Aug 4, 2020 / 04:44 PM EDT

HATTERAS, N.C. (WAVY) Both Hatteras and Ocracoke islands are reopening after issuing mandatory evacuations ahead of Isaias.

After facing minimal impacts from tropical storm Isaias, Dare County officials say Hatteras Island reopened with unrestricted access at 2 p.m. Tuesday.

Hyde County officials also reopened Ocracoke Island for residents, property owners and vendors effective at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Ocracoke would reopen for visitors at 6 a.m. Wednesday.

NCDOT announced Tuesday the U.S. Coast Guard gave permission for the Hatteras Inlet ferry route to resume service Tuesday afternoon.

The route will run this limited schedule for the rest of the day Tuesday:

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, the temporary schedule will be as follows:

The ferry will resume its regular schedule Thursday, Aug. 7.

Meanwhile, more inland areas of the state were hit hard, including Bertie County, where at least two people are dead after tornadoes touched down early Tuesday morning.

Gov. Roy Cooper held a press conference to discuss the states storm response at 3 p.m.

Dare County Emergency Management says some sand and water may be in low-lying areas, including Highway 12 south of the Etheridge Bridge, but damage has been relatively small. No ocean overwash was reported on NC 12.

Though officials say delays should be expected and drivers should check road conditions ahead of time at http://www.drivenc.gov.Surf conditions are still dangerous and ocean swimming is prohibited at this time.

Hyde County officials warn those traveling to Ocracoke that there may be delayed with the ferries.

Outer Banks national park sites are safe to reopen by Wednesday. Those sites include Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial.

Facilities and operations that have been closed and/or suspended due to COVID-19 safety precautions will still remain closed.

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Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island reopen to residents and vendors; minimal damage from Isaias - WAVY.com

As spring has turned to summer and fall is now on the horizon, its been a difficult number of months for everyone.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced Hawaii and its residents to recalibrate, rethink, and refocus much of our energy toward constructively outlining a plan that will keep our communities afloat amidst continued uncertainty. Such efforts have proven fruitful as the mayor of Kauai recently announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding that formalizes a partnership with Expedia Group to assist Kauai with enforcement of its vacation-rental law.

The agreement allows the county to more effectively regulate vacation rentals while simultaneously protecting the rights of responsible short-term-rental owners. Its a historic achievement and an announcement that I welcome wholly and with open arms.

Over the years, tourism has become the lifeblood of Hawaiis economy, and nearly 200,000 people in the islands are employed by the industry. Moreover, tourism accounts for at least 17% of the states total gross domestic product, and perhaps much more when the trickle-down from tourist-related income is considered. Of course, we need to work together to reassess how our economy is structured to work toward becoming more balanced and less dependant upon one segment for our survival.

The recently-signed MOU has come at a time when we need it most. This unprecedented action is the first voluntary agreement between a platform and a county in Hawaii offering assistance in compliance with an underlying law. The MOU is designed to allow the county to more-effectively track and regulate vacation rentals while protecting the ability of responsible vacation-rental operators in Kauai County to welcome traveling families.

As an owner and operator of a unique homestay experience, I have had a front-row seat to the impact that the pandemic has had on the travel and short-term rental communities. But with change often comes innovation. My homestay is located on 7.6 acres of pristine agricultural land on the North Shore of Kauai, and income from travelers has helped us to maintain our working farm and make ends meet.

As the local travel industry has adjusted to COVID-19, we have as well. We have temporarily welcomed long-term renters to stay at our Twin Hearts cottage at competitive rates. However, the reduced amount of income from our cottage jeopardizes our farms viability.

When Kauai re-opens for visitors, which is inevitable eventually if we are to maintain a reasonable standard of living for our resident community, consider this: More so than any traditional hotel experience, our vacation rentals will be the safest and most secure way to enjoy a Kauai getaway, as we oversee every aspect of the sanitation process to ensure that our guests will have the most relaxing and carefree experience.

Vacation rentals, now and previously, are one of the safest accommodation options. Not only are they adopting enhanced cleaning protocols developed by VRBO and the Vacation Rental Management Association, but they also facilitate a level of social distancing that is simply not possible with a traditional hotel experience.

Our cottage, within walking distance to one of the islands most beautiful beaches, is self-contained, and provides the needs required of those on vacation. And unlike most hotel chains, the earnings generated from short-term-rental properties benefit the local communities and constituents, and not the pockets of corporate boardrooms.

I warmly welcome Mayor Kawakamis announcement and MOU. Because of the state and countys early shutdown and the important actions taken by Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami, Kauai is the island with the lowest number of COVID-19 infections in Hawaii, and should hopefully be in a position soon to start safely reopening to travelers.

As a proud resident of the island of Kauai, I am lucky to be a farmer, as well as work in an industry that allows travelers and tourists from around the world to experience the beauty and wonder of our home and of these islands.

The aloha culture, our pristine beaches, and unique aloha spirit are all emblematic of a larger cultural heritage and experience a heritage and experience that people actively seek out.

And it is with great pride that I am able to offer a small sampling of the aforementioned experience. The vacation-rental community is now prepared to meet and exceed the expectations outlined by the government and public-health officials. And I thank Kawakami and Expedia Group for acting and understanding tourisms necessity for this community and our state at large

Bruce Fehring is a Kilauea resident and has lived on Kauai for over 30 years.

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Vacation-rental agreement a good thing for island - Thegardenisland.com

Posted: Aug 5, 2020 / 05:49 PM CDT / Updated: Aug 5, 2020 / 05:49 PM CDT

School starts Thursday for students in the Rock Island-Milan School District, but kids wont be stepping back into the classroom.

The district will begin the fall semester with all remote learning. That will be the case until Labor Day at least.

Superintendent Dr. Reginald Lawrence says, Our families can expect that students will be online. Our day starts from 8:30 until 1:30 Thats five hours of academic instruction, and interaction with teachers.

He says the district has been working for months trying to ensure that all families will have access to technology.

Contact your school principal. Contact us here at the Administration Center. We want to ensure that every family has a Chromebook for their children as well as internet connectivity, says Lawrence. We have hot spots weve given out to families, and right now we have something new. We call it Rockfi. Its our own brand of putting some high power routers in the community.

Virtual instruction is expected to last until at least Labor Day, depending on the spread of the virus.

When students, and teachers do return to the school building, there will be some changes.

Masks will be on, social distancing of 6-ft as much as possible. Washing of hands, not passing and sharing of items cleanliness in the classrooms, says Lawrence.

Superintendent Lawrence says, while staff is ready for the students return, safety is their number one priority.

Lawrence says, Everyone wants to do their best in getting back to a point where we can all see each other in person.

Superintendent Lawrence says, the remote option of learning fives the district more time to prepare for students returning to campus.

Read more:

Rock Island-Milan School District to begin school year with full remote learning - WHBF - OurQuadCities.com

A view of Metlakatla on Annette Island, Alaskas only Native reserve. (File photo by Leila Kheiry)

State health officials announced Monday that a Metlakatla resident had tested positive for COVID-19. Local officials, though, say its important to note that the person is not physically present in the Alaska Native reserve south of Ketchikan.

Keolani Booth leads Metlakatla Indian Communitys COVID-19 response. He says two Metlakatla residents recently traveled up to Anchorage for medical treatment.

They were on their way back to Metlakatla from Anchorage, but were intercepted in Juneau when they did their testing there, and one turned up positive, Booth said in a phone interview.

Booth says the unnamed positive Metlakatla resident is still in Juneau, and says they plan to stay in Juneau for the next couple of weeks.

He says its unlikely the positive individual was infected prior to departing for Anchorage both of the traveling residents were tested on their way north, and Booth says both results came back negative.

Booth said Tuesday that Metlakatla has still yet to see any confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the boundaries of the states only Indigenous reserve.

Metlakatlas government has implemented strict quarantine and testing measures in an effort to prevent COVID-19 from reaching the community of roughly 1,500 people.

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Metlakatla resident diagnosed with COVID-19 is off-island in Juneau, local officials say - KRBD

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Several bus detours remain in effect early Wednesday morning across Staten Island, after Tropical Storm Isaias wreaked havoc on trees and power lines.

Heres a list of the detours posted to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority website, last updated Tuesday evening.

On Tuesday afternoon, the storm wreaked havoc on borough transportation: The Staten Island Ferry had to suspend service and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge was closed, causing a major traffic tie-up while the storm pummeled the Island.

After the storm knocked out Staten Island Railway service, the MTA announced Tuesday night that service had resumed between the Tottenville and St. George stations, with delays.

All trains will arrive and depart from the Tottenville-bound platforms between Grant City and Old Town and between Eltingville and Huguenot stations as crews continue tree removal.

The MTA issued a statement Tuesday evening ensuring riders that more than 11,000 personnel are working around-the-clock to deliver service and respond to storm damage.

Included in the effort are nearly 9,500 New York City Transit employees assessing and repairing storm damage, and 180 workers with Bridges and Tunnels removing debris and making needed repairs.

More:

MTA: Bus detours remain in effect Wednesday morning on Staten Island - SILive.com

Under Phase 3, restaurants like Theo's Java Club couldn't have indoor seating. Theo's says they want to help get the state in the right direction.

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. Business owners in Rock Island are worried about having to return to Phase 3of Governor JB Pritzker's reopening plan. But one coffee shop says they're willing to do what it takes to get the state moving forward again.

The governor warned in recent weeks Rock Island County wasn't moving quick enough with lowering COVID-19 cases. Reverting to Phase 3 would mean some types of businesses would have to close altogether, while restaurants couldn't have indoor seating again.

Theo's Java Club says if they have to go back, they'll likely have to close down again.

"Everybody would love to be back to normal," barista David Rotz says, "but that doesn't seem as attainable right now. So we gotta do what we gotta do."

When they went through the first wave of coronavirus shutdowns, Theo's was closed for four months this spring. Rotz says they tried curbside pick-up but it never took off.

Rotz says Theo's closing means losing a second home for some customers.

"I like to think the food and the coffee are pretty good," Rotz says. "A lot of people respond to our staff and our space."

And that's something Phil Dingeldein says he'll miss if Theo's closes again.

"Very disheartening for a small business owner to no be able to be in business," the regular says. "It's just the atmosphere. It's Theo. You walk in, and you know half the people every time you come in.

Rotz says he hopes a second closer would go more smoothly than the first.

"It's something we've been through now," he says. "So the idea of going back to it I feel a bit more hopeful. Maybe we can have a better strategy to keep in touch with people."

For now, Theo's is continuing to serve up good coffee and good conversation with good people.

There's no word from the governor's office on when the Quad Cities region could have to return to Phase 3.

Excerpt from:

Rock Island coffee shop weighs options for returning to Phase 3 - WQAD.com

For centuries, the tiny island of Lundy and its wonderful flora and fauna have just about survived the ravages of pirates, profiteers, rodents and rampaging rhododendron.

But the futures of rare birds and plants, plus the livelihoods of the hardy humans who live on this windswept hunk of granite off the Devon coast, are being put at risk by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Landmark Trust, which manages the island, has launched an urgent fundraising appeal, warning that Lundys way of life was at peril and vital conservation work was on hold because of a disastrous loss of income.

Lundys wellbeing depends to a large extent on the day trippers who travel over on the supply boat from spring to autumn. But lockdown forced Lundy to close at the end of March. Most of the staff were furloughed and the 3-mile (5km) long island remained shut for for 14 weeks.

The island is now open but social distancing rules mean that only 90 day trippers rather than 250 can visit daily.

Derek Green, the Lundy general manager, said he was deeply worried. Its a desperate state of affairs, he said. If we dont raise the money, the islands future is in jeopardy. Losing three months of income at our busiest time has been disastrous.

Green, who has been on the island for 17 years, said Lundy needed 300,000 to take it through to next spring. Were appealing to anyone who loves Lundy to help us out. If we can get to the start of next season and life returns to normality we may be OK. Lundy has faced lot of challenges over the years but weve never had to face a pandemic.

For hundreds of years the islands strategic position 12 miles off the coast made it a perfect hideout for pirates, who would pillage ships heading into English ports.

Others who have tried to make a quick buck out of Lundy include the 18th-century north Devon MP Thomas Benson, who was paid to deport convicts to north America but dropped them off 4,000 miles short on Lundy.

More than 100 years later, a businessman called Martin Coles Harman bought the island and declared himself king of Lundy. He was fined by the House of Lords for setting up his own currency, with half puffin and one puffin coins.

A new chapter in the islands history began in 1969 when the late Jack Hayward, the former owner of Wolverhampton Wanderers football club, bought Lundy and donated it to the National Trust, who leased it to the Landmark Trust.

Since then, Lundy has enjoyed five decades of stability. It became the UKs first-ever marine conservation zone and is a special area of conservation and a site of special scientific interest. Just months before lockdown, celebrations took place to mark the 50th anniversary of Lundy being handed over to the National Trust.

Conservation projects over the five decades included eradicating rats from the island, which the Landmark Trust says resulted in the tripling of seabird numbers. From a low of just 13 individuals at the turn of the century, there are now more than 400 puffins on Lundy and numbers of Manx shearwaters rose from 297 breeding pairs in 2001 to more than 5,000 by 2018.

Dean Woodfin Jones, the Lundy warden, said conservation work that had been paused or reduced because of the financial crisis included eradicating the invasive rhododendron. Keeping the cliffs clear is an expensive and painstaking job that needs specialist climbers, but has allowed the unique Lundy cabbage to make a comeback.

He said that if biosecurity measures were cut, there was a danger that rats, which can swim in from passing boats, could also creep back.

Woodfin Jones said: Lundy is home to a host of rare and ecologically significant plants and animals, including nationally important seabird colonies, endemic plants and insects and endangered marine life. Every donation we receive will safeguard the islands future, protect its wildlife and ensure specific conservation projects which have progressed over the past 50 years are not undone.

Then there is the human cost. The permanent human population is already down from 28 to 24. Lundy supports a further 15 jobs on the mainland and works with around 200 local businesses and suppliers in north Devon.

Woodfin Jones, whose tasks over the last 24 hours have included helping get a visitor airlifted from the island after he suffered an ankle injury and showing a volunteer how to count seals, said: A lot of people are scared they may lose their jobs and have to leave the island, leave the Lundy family.

Read the rest here:

Lockdown puts wildlife conservation on Devon's Lundy Island at risk - The Guardian

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tornado watch for Staten Island and much of the tri-state area on Tuesday.

The watch, which was issued at 7:20 a.m., is in effect until 4 p.m.

Damage could include roofs peeled from buildings, chimneys toppled, fallen trees and branches, vehicles blown off roads and small boats pulled from moorings, the NWS warned.

The possible tornados are just one of a host of dangerous weather conditions Tropical Storm Isaias is threatening to bring our way when it hits the city Tuesday afternoon and evening.

A tropical storm warning remains in effect after being upgraded Monday by emergency officials from a watch.

Described by an AccuWeather meteorologist as a fast moving storm, experts predict most dangerous conditions to pass through the area by late Tuesday night.

Neighborhoods on Staten Island at most risk of heavy rain, strong winds and possible flooding are Tottenville, Midland Beach and Todt Hill, the NWS cautions.

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Isaias races towards the northeast

Average wind gusts of between 45 and 55 mph are expected Tuesday, with possible isolated gusts of up to 75 mph.

A flash flood watch remains in effect on Staten Island until 6 a.m. Wednesday, with coastal areas most likely to be effected.

Rain accumulation in the area has been downgraded from between two and four inches to between one and three inches, while residents still should stay away from storm surge prone areas near the boroughs coastlines, according to the NWS.

Excerpt from:

Tornado watch issued for Staten Island on Tuesday - SILive.com

For the past several months I've seen hundreds or gorgeous Animal Crossing: New Horizons villages that have seemingly been terraformed and decorated by experts. Up until now, I've had to admire these creations from afar by watching YouTube videos or getting lucky enough to get invited over by the owners. Well, all that is changing with the Summer Wave 2 update, which has brought dreaming to the game.

Players can now share their dream islands with others using a Dream Address. The best part about it is that that visitors can run around and look at your creations without affecting the "real" island. Since this is the case, several talented island curators have been sharing their Dream Addresses publicly so others can admire their work. We've looked around and gathered the most gorgeous islands we could find. Here are the best dream islands to visit in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

If you want any dreamland help, check out our guide and learn how to visit and create dream islands.

There are so many amazing islands out there, but these ones in particular really caught our eye.

A beautiful setup with perfectly manicured walkways and neighborhoods.

A place so tranquil and filled with celestial bodies that it might as well be Luna's home.

If this place existed in real life, I would have visited years ago.

I'm constantly in awe of some people's decorating skills and this is a prime example.

This is one of the best natural-looking islands I've ever seen. It's sure to help you relax and get more inspiration for your own village.

Some people are absolutely masterful at placing walkways and gardens, this is one of those people.

Nothing is quite as relaxing as walking through the beautiful paths of this island.

This dream island really shows off the beauty of simplicity.

This dream island creator has turned one section of his village into a carnival complete with rides, popcorn, and games. So fun!

This creator does an excellent job of mixing busy city vibes with that of a magical forest. It's really something to get inspired by.

There are so many talented people in the Animal Crossing fandom! As such, we're sure that even more gorgeous dream islands will become available as time goes on. If you see an amazing Dream Address that we missed, be sure to tell us about it in the comments below!

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The 10 best dream Islands to visit in Animal Crossing: New Horizons - iMore

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have heard how businesses and families have struggled in the pandemic during a visit to south Wales.

The royal couple were at Barry Island which is home to TV comedy Gavin and Stacey, but William admitted he has never watched the show.

They also played games at an arcade which was the setting for Nessa's Slots in the series.

Later, they met residents and their family members at a Cardiff care home.

Prince William and Catherine heard how people had struggled with being unable to visit their loved ones at the height of lockdown.

While the Duchess was pictured days earlier wearing a face mask during a visit to a baby bank in Sheffield, face coverings are not mandatory in Wales, except on public transport.

Last year about 424,000 visitors headed to Barry Island to play on the slot machines and enjoy the seaside resort, well known to fans of Gavin and Stacey.

William and Catherine toured the haunts of the comedy drama's characters - the arcade where Nessa worked and Stacey's employer Marco's cafe - but the duke confessed to never having seen the popular series.

"It's one of the few boxsets I haven't already watched. I've never actually watched it," he said.

"But I know how much it has done for the economy here and it's a wonderful series."

With pubs, cafes and restaurants only able to reopen indoors from Monday, businesses told the royal couple how lockdown had impacted them.

The change in lockdown rules also meant groups of up to 30 people have been able to meet outdoors and many young children are able to play with their friends for the first time since lockdown began.

The royal couple also visited the beach huts on the promenade, installed as part of the Vale of Glamorgan Council's 6m regeneration project.

Later in the day they travelled to Shire Hall Care Home in Cardiff, where they spoke to staff, residents and their family members in the home's garden.

In May, the royal couple hosted a bingo game for residents at the home via video link, and got to meet some of them in person during the visit.

At the time, Joan Drew-Smith, 87, made headlines when she said the royal bingo game "wasn't as good as it should have been".

And when the duke introduced himself during the visit to the home by saying: "Hello Joan, do you remember we did the bingo with you? You said we weren't very good."

She swore in her reply when describing what she thought of their efforts - which the couple laughed at.

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Coronavirus: Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visit Barry Island - BBC News

"Music runs through our blood, so any type of music venue is automatically loved and beloved, said Jerred Price, Downtown Neighborhood Association President.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. For years, the Mud Island Amphitheater has set idle with no concerts, events, and structural damage, but theres a growing effort and push to change that.

Local 24 News Reporter Brittani Moncrease spoke with the Downtown Neighborhood Association working on a plan to bring the venue back.

If you take the first initials of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, you get DNA. That is just what they are fighting for, the very DNA of what makes downtown Memphis, downtown Memphis. They are starting with a former music venue.

Music runs through our blood, said Jerred Price, DNA President.

You can hear it through the streets, people, and culture. Price has been working to grow the city's music scene.

Music brings people together, said Price.

Thus, #SaveMudIslandFirst was born. One focus is on the Mud Island Amphitheater which, musically speaking, got the blues itself.

The Mud Island Amphitheater for years was packed full of people. I think it just fell into despair on poor maintenance, poor leadership overseeing the park, poor leadership promoting the park, poor leadership promoting the concerts, said Price.

The DNA has already begun brainstorming ideas.

Theres going to be some infrastructure work, said Price.

Were going to look into possibly the TDZ aspect making it a tourist development zone. Were also looking at sponsorship maybe large companies that want to put branding rights on there. People were thinking about making it into a district like the Amphitheater District where weve got a hotel out there. Weve got restaurants and bars.

It would certainly be no small project with some possible challenges.

They say its logistically hard to get over to. Its got accessibility issues, said Price.

There is also the concern for money.

If they can raise $40 to $60 million for Tom Lee, we can easily raise $2 to $10 million for Mud Island, said Price.

The DNA still remains hopeful.

Since weve been announced, Ive been contacted by so many people wanting to be involved in this project. I think that with the right people and the right heart, you can make anything happen, said Price. Its time to get the right people in there that care that are going to do it right and stay with this gem that sits on our front porch.

Memphis River Parks Partnership is currently working to renew the amphitheater.

In a statement they said, "As stewards of the riverfront, the Partnership has been working with national operator/investors on the renewal of the amphitheater. Once COVID restrictions pass and the future of live entertainment is clearer, we look forward to creating a new future for the amphitheater in partnership with some of the most successful live entertainment operators in the world. "

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Effort underway to renovate Mud Island Amphitheater - WATN - Local 24