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Congressman Tim Moore Secures Over $378,000 in Federal Funding for Belmont Fire Department

Congressman Tim Moore Secures Over $378,000 in Federal Funding for Belmont Fire Department

Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) has announced that the City of Belmont, North Carolina, has been awarded $378,240.04 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)'s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program. This funding is specifically designated for the Belmont Fire Department. According to Congressman Moore, the grant will enable the department to hire three additional firefighters, which is crucial given the significant increase in call volume the department has experienced. Deputy Fire Chief Alex Hardee of the Belmont Fire Department expressed gratitude for Congressman Moore's support, stating that these three operational positions are paramount to Belmont's public safety initiatives. The department has seen a roughly 70% increase in call volume over the past three years, while operating with limited staffing. Congressman Moore had previously sent a letter of support to FEMA recommending the City of Belmont for the SAFER Grant.

Congressman Langworthy Announces $382,298 in Federal Grants for Southern Tier Fire Departments

Congressman Langworthy Announces $382,298 in Federal Grants for Southern Tier Fire Departments

Congressman Nick Langworthy's office announced that four fire departments in New York's Southern Tier will receive a combined $382,298 in federal grants. The funding, provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, is allocated to the Village of Savona ($167,619), the City of Hornell ($128,403), the Erin Fire District ($32,680), and the Village of Spencer ($53,596). These grants are intended to enhance the safety and effectiveness of first responders and improve their ability to respond to emergencies and disasters. Congressman Langworthy emphasized the importance of this federal funding, noting that he supported the program and hosted a grant-writing seminar to assist local departments in their applications.

New Hampshire Fire Departments Receive Over $3.6 Million in Federal Grants

New Hampshire Fire Departments Receive Over $3.6 Million in Federal Grants

Local fire departments in Keene, Spofford, and Surry, New Hampshire, are set to receive a portion of more than $3.6 million in federal Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG). These grants, distributed by FEMA, aim to provide essential resources for fire departments to enhance their response capabilities and ensure community safety. The funding will be used for various critical needs, including the purchase of equipment, updating protective gear, replacing or adding emergency vehicles, and supporting training initiatives. Specifically, Keene will receive $198,181.81 for power cots and lift systems, the Spofford Fire District will get $72,380.95 for firefighter breathing apparatus, and the Town of Surry will acquire $32,761.90 for a washer and dryer for personal protective equipment. The awards were announced by the New Hampshire congressional delegation, including U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan, and Representatives Chris Pappas and Maggie Goodlander, who emphasized the importance of sustain...

Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Bill to End Federal Funding for Dog and Cat Biomedical Experiments

Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Bill to End Federal Funding for Dog and Cat Biomedical Experiments

U.S. Representatives Nick Langworthy (R-NY) and Mark Pocan (D-WI), along with other lawmakers, have introduced legislation aimed at ending Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) funding for biomedical experiments involving live dogs and cats. The proposed bill, H.R. 10522, known as the Companion Animal Protection Against Cruel Testing Act, seeks to prohibit the use of HHS funds for the purchase, breeding, housing, transportation, and experimental use of these animals in covered biomedical research. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions to facilitate the adoption or rescue of animals no longer required for federally funded research. This legislative effort coincides with the 'March to End Animal Testing,' a 207-mile trek concluding at Marshall BioResources, a facility that houses thousands of beagles, cats, ferrets, and pigs for biomedical research. The march highlights growing public and advocacy group concerns regarding animal welfare in scientific testing.

Maryland Delegation, Including April McClain Delaney, Secures $8.6 Million in Federal Security Funding for Religious Institutions

Maryland Delegation, Including April McClain Delaney, Secures $8.6 Million in Federal Security Funding for Religious Institutions

A Maryland delegation, including U.S. Representative April McClain Delaney (MD-06), announced $8.6 million in federal funding to enhance security at 49 religious institutions and community centers across Maryland. This funding, provided through the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program, aims to protect high-risk nonprofits, including faith-based institutions. The delegation, which also included Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, and Representatives Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume, Andy Harris, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, and Johnny Olszewski, collectively advocated for this increase in security funding. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program received $300 million in fiscal year 2026, an increase from $274.5 million in fiscal year 2025. Congresswoman McClain Delaney emphasized that individuals should not fear for their safety when entering places of worship, stating that the investment will help strengthen security and protect communities.

Governor DeSantis Defends 'Alligator Alcatraz' Amidst Watchdog Criticism and Reimbursement Delays

Governor DeSantis Defends 'Alligator Alcatraz' Amidst Watchdog Criticism and Reimbursement Delays

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is defending the state's now-closed Everglades immigration detention facility, dubbed 'Alligator Alcatraz,' against a federal watchdog report that criticized its conditions. The facility, which operated from summer 2025 to June 2026, was intended as a temporary measure to process migrants for deportation. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) inspector general's findings highlighted issues such as insufficient living space, inadequate medical and food services, poor hygiene, and limited recreation. Detainees were reportedly held in cramped conditions, with some placed in small metal enclosures described as 'calming areas,' which the watchdog deemed inconsistent with humane treatment standards. Despite these criticisms, Governor DeSantis maintains that the facility was crucial in moving approximately 25,000 migrants toward deportation, many of whom he claims had criminal histories. He also noted that the federal government, through FEMA, has begun reimbursing Florida for it...

Asheville Citizen-Times

NC received $75 million for childcare centers after Helene. Providers haven't received funds

NC received $75 million for childcare centers after Helene. Providers haven't received funds

Two years after Hurricane Helene devastated WNC, childcare centers have yet to receive federal funding.

Senator Chuck Grassley Announces Over $5.5 Million in FEMA Funding for Iowa Disaster Recovery

Senator Chuck Grassley Announces Over $5.5 Million in FEMA Funding for Iowa Disaster Recovery

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley has announced that Rock Valley and two Lyon County recipients in Iowa will receive more than $5.5 million in federal disaster assistance. This funding, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is designated for storm and flood recovery projects. The local awards are part of a larger allocation of over $18.2 million in FEMA funding supporting repairs, debris removal, and other disaster-related work across eight Iowa counties. Specifically, the City of Rock Valley will receive $3,826,987.31 for permanent repairs, including work on city maintenance and storage buildings. Lyon County Secondary Roads is allocated $1,178,580.75 for permanent repairs, which includes bridge replacement, and the City of Rock Rapids will receive $527,625 for debris removal operations. These funds address damage caused by severe storms, flooding, straight-line winds, and tornadoes.

Minneapolis Fire Department Welcomes 17 New Cadets After Intensive Training

Minneapolis Fire Department Welcomes 17 New Cadets After Intensive Training

The Minneapolis Fire Department (MFD) has celebrated the graduation of 17 new fire cadets from its Fire Academy. The ceremony took place at the Capri Theater, marking the completion of an intensive three-month training program. These new firefighters have acquired cutting-edge skills designed to equip them for saving lives and protecting property during emergencies. Mayor Jacob Frey highlighted that this graduating class brings diverse experiences and perspectives, along with a strong commitment to public service. The 17 cadets, comprising 12 men and five women, contribute to the department's growing diversity and come from various professional backgrounds, including financial and healthcare sectors, paramedics, and former 911 dispatchers. For some, firefighting is a family tradition, with relatives already serving in the MFD or other fire agencies. Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette and newly inaugurated Minneapolis Fire Chief Reginald Freeman commended the graduates for their dedication and sacr...

Derby Fire Department Receives Federal Grant for Breathing Equipment

Derby Fire Department Receives Federal Grant for Breathing Equipment

The Derby Fire Department has been awarded an Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) Grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This federal grant, totaling $281,590, is specifically designated for the purchase of 30 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) units. SCBAs are essential portable respiratory protection devices that provide firefighters with clean, compressed air in environments that are toxic or oxygen-deficient. As part of the grant requirements, the City of Derby will contribute $28,159 towards the cost, funded through the Derby Difference Sales Tax. Fire Chief John Turner expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing its importance in supporting the department's mission to save lives and property and providing firefighters with new equipment to achieve their goals.

McLean County Emergency System Board Seeks Major Radio System Upgrade to Address Coverage Gaps

McLean County Emergency System Board Seeks Major Radio System Upgrade to Address Coverage Gaps

The Emergency Telephone System Board (ETSB) in McLean County is planning a significant upgrade to its unified emergency responder radio system, known as Starcom. This system, developed after the 9/11 attacks to improve interagency communication, currently suffers from widespread coverage gaps and 'dead zones' where radio reception is poor or non-existent, particularly inside buildings. Sheriff Matt Lane, who chairs the ETSB, stated that some of these areas have had terrible coverage for two decades. These dead zones affect various rural areas, including parts of McLean, Heyworth, Downs, and areas north of Rt. 24 around Chenoa and Anchor, as well as the Spin Lake area. Even urban areas like Normal experience temporary radio dropouts. The county is in discussions with Motorola to select updated technology, with preliminary cost estimates ranging from $9.65 million to $19.25 million, plus an annual fee exceeding $800,000. The proposed upgrades include adding between three and six new towers to improve coverag...

Representative Jason Crow Advocates for $15.6 Million in Federal Funding for Aurora Flood Control

Representative Jason Crow Advocates for $15.6 Million in Federal Funding for Aurora Flood Control

Representative Jason Crow has successfully advocated for $15.6 million in federal support for Aurora, Colorado, to address flood-related safety problems and aging sewer infrastructure. This funding is part of the broader Water Resources Development Act, which recently passed the House with a 415-9 vote. The legislation aims to construct new storm sewers and expand the city's stormwater capacity, particularly in northwest Aurora, including specific projects like a new storm sewer at the intersection of East 14th Avenue and Yosemite Street, an area known for repeated flooding. According to Sentinel Colorado, this investment will also help the city respond to climate change. Representative Crow has stated his commitment to continuing to seek federal resources for Colorado communities. The Water Resources Development Act also includes $150 million for rural water infrastructure nationwide and funding for several other Colorado projects.