This city has the smoothest roads in the Bay Area. Where does your city rank?

Posted on 26/11/2025 by admin

Which city has the best-maintained roads in the Bay Area? The wealthy Marin County suburb of Larkspur lays claim to that title, according to a new report from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, a regional agency overseeing local transit systems. The city with the most potholes and bumpy streets? Vallejo, the only community in the region where road conditions are considered “poor,” according to the report. Overall, the transit agency found that the Bay Area’s 44, 000 miles of local roads are wearing down, with the typical stretch of roadway likely needing repairs soon. The report assigned each of the 110 cities and counties in the region a score on a 100-point scale. For the tenth year in a row, the Bay Area’s roads registered an average of 67, considered “fair.” “The good news is our cities and counties are continuing to hold the line against major deterioration,” the commission’s chair, Sue Noack, also the mayor of Pleasant Hill, said in a statement. “But the bad news is we’re still just as far away from bringing the regional average into the ‘very good’ range as we were a decade ago.” Affluent cities tend to rank higher in the report, with Larkspur, Palo Alto, Cupertino, Orinda and Hillsborough all scoring over 80, considered “very good.” That’s not always the case, however. As recently as 2017, Larkspur’s roads were rated “poor” in the annual roads report. But that changed with the city’s passage of two sales tax measures to help rehabilitate its 65 miles of streets. “When the community supported a sales tax measure in November 2017, the (city council) promised that the first thing it would do was fix the roads,” Larkspur City Manager Dan Schwarz said in an email. “It took five years to completely rehabilitate the system. The City is committed to maintaining this important asset. Our goal now is to make it hard to believe Larkspur ever had poor-quality roads.” Some funding for local roads also comes from the state and federal government, though they spend more on highway systems. Vallejo, with among the highest poverty rates in the Bay Area, ranked last with a score of 44. “Years of underfunding in the City of Vallejo has led to significant deterioration of city roads,” the Solano County Civil Grand Jury wrote in a report this year. To upgrade the crumbling streets, Vallejo voters approved a sales tax in 2022 to raise an estimated $18 million annually, with the majority of funds going toward road repairs. Vallejo officials did not respond to a request for comment on the city’s road maintenance efforts. Cities just above Vallejo in the rankings include wealthier communities such as Berkeley and Millbrae, as well as places with higher poverty rates, such as Richmond and Pittsburg revealing that healthier tax bases don’t necessarily translate to better roads. Of the Bay Area’s three largest cities, Oakland came in last with a score of 58, rating its roads as “at risk.” Despite the low score, city officials said they have made progress in fixing Oakland’s notorious pothole-filled streets in recent years, thanks to voter-approved bond measures that contribute to about $45 million a year for road maintenance. Earlier this year, the Alameda County Civil Grand Jury found that over a recent 18-month span, the city filled as many potholes around 85, 000 as it repaired in a 10-year span between 2008 and 2018. “We also know there’s more work ahead, especially on residential streets, which have historically received less maintenance than major corridors,” the Oakland Department of Transportation said in a statement. San Jose ranked above Oakland, with a score of 73, considered “good.” San Francisco scored a 75. Officials in San Jose said the city has maintained or repaved about 10% of its sprawling 4, 469 miles of local streets each year over the past eight years. They attributed the progress in part to a sales tax measure Santa Clara County voters approved in 2016, which has since raised $440 million for local roads across the South Bay. “Huge thank you to the city teams who have repaved over 60% of our roads since 2019 considering we’re the biggest city in Northern California, that’s quite a feat,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan said in a statement. More money could soon be available for road repairs. In November 2026, voters in the Bay Area’s five largest counties will decide on a massive transportation bond to raise about $1 billion annually aimed at bailing out the region’s struggling public transit agencies. If approved, about a third of the money would be available for flexible transportation spending, including targeted road repairs, with most of those funds going to Santa Clara County, according to Emily Loper, a senior vice president of public policy at the Bay Area Council, which is backing the bond measure. As part of an agreement to secure Santa Clara County officials’ support for the measure, the county would receive an expected $264 million in flexible funding. San Mateo County would see $50 million, Contra Costa County $26 million, and Alameda County $10 million. All of San Francisco’s funding would go to public transit. “I do expect a significant amount to go to roadway repairs,” the Bay Area Council’s Loper said.
https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/11/26/bay-area-roads-potholes-repairs/

Future Tech 2030: 12 Upcoming Innovations and Tech Predictions That Will Transform Our Lives

Posted on 25/11/2025 by admin

Major breakthroughs in future tech 2030 are set to transform daily life. The next decade is expected to bring some of the most dramatic technological shifts in modern history. As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, experts predict that everyday routines-from how we learn and work to how we travel and communicate-will look strikingly different. Even though these changes will happen gradually, their development is already influencing global industries, consumer expectations, and societal structures. Being aware of tech predictions helps individuals, businesses, and governments make informed decisions, adapt to change, and embrace the opportunities offered by upcoming innovations. Understanding the trends shaping 2030 can ensure smoother integration of technology into personal and professional life. Key Technological Innovations Shaping the Future 1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Integration By 2030, AI and machine learning will be fully embedded in daily routines. Beyond voice assistants or chatbots, AI will proactively manage household energy consumption, enhance medical diagnostics, personalize education, and automate repetitive work tasks. These AI systems will become increasingly intuitive and human-like in communication, creating seamless, efficient interactions across devices, platforms, and environments. 2. Quantum Computing Breakthroughs Quantum computing is expected to move from experimental labs to practical applications within the next decade. These powerful systems will tackle challenges that traditional computers cannot solve, including climate modeling, pharmaceutical discovery, cryptography, and global industry optimization. While not intended for personal devices, quantum computing will revolutionize data-heavy sectors, opening possibilities once thought impossible. 3. Extended Reality (AR, VR, MR) Advancement Extended Reality (XR)-encompassing augmented, virtual, and mixed reality-will redefine learning, work, and entertainment. Students may attend immersive virtual classrooms, professionals could conduct holographic meetings, and creative teams will collaborate on interactive design platforms. XR will also deliver hyper-realistic gaming, virtual tourism, and immersive experiences, making it one of the central pillars of future tech 2030. Emerging Innovations Impacting Everyday Life and Industry Autonomous and Electric Vehicles Transforming Transportation Self-driving cars, autonomous delivery drones, and AI-guided public transit systems will reshape urban landscapes. Combined with electric vehicle adoption, transportation will become safer, more efficient, and sustainable. Urban planners are preparing for reduced traffic congestion, automated logistics, and mobility services that could reduce reliance on private car ownership. Biotechnology and Gene Editing for Personalized Medicine Biotechnology will revolutionize healthcare, allowing for personalized treatments based on genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Gene-editing tools like CRISPR could correct hereditary disorders, while innovations in agriculture will create drought-resistant crops, lab-grown foods, and sustainable bio-engineered materials. Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) and Neural Technology Once considered science fiction, BCIs will allow direct communication between the brain and external devices. These interfaces can enable hands-free digital control, memory assistance, immersive experiences, and enhanced accessibility for people with disabilities. By 2030, BCIs may become part of mainstream technology in both healthcare and daily computing. Smart Cities Powered by IoT Interconnected devices and AI-powered sensors will transform cities into smart, self-regulating systems. Traffic, energy, and emergency responses will optimize automatically, reducing waste and improving quality of life. These upcoming innovations aim to make urban areas more efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable. 12 Innovations That Will Change How We Live by 2030 As technology accelerates, the following twelve upcoming innovations are expected to reshape daily life by 2030: Personal AI Life Coaches Tailoring advice for fitness, finance, and career decisions. Autonomous Household Robots Performing cleaning, maintenance, and caregiving tasks. Next-Generation Wearables Monitoring health metrics with advanced sensors to prevent illnesses. Holographic Communication Bringing realistic 3D interactions into personal and professional communication. Wireless Energy Systems Reducing reliance on cords and enabling remote power delivery. Sustainable Consumer Materials Eco-friendly plastics, fabrics, and construction materials. Edible Food Innovations Lab-grown meats and plant-based alternatives for sustainable nutrition. Personalized Entertainment Experiences Adaptive media content tailored to moods and preferences. Micro-Mobility Devices Compact, automated urban transport options for last-mile commuting. Digital Twin Technology Virtual models for homes, cities, and industries to improve planning and management. Space-Based Technologies for Earth Satellite-driven solutions for energy, agriculture, and communications. Next-Level Cybersecurity Solutions AI-driven systems protecting personal and enterprise data from evolving threats. These twelve innovations highlight how future tech 2030 will transform healthcare, urban living, transportation, and daily routines. Conclusion The decade ahead promises unparalleled opportunities for growth, productivity, and convenience through future tech 2030. Breakthroughs in AI, quantum computing, XR, biotechnology, and autonomous systems are reshaping how we work, communicate, travel, and maintain health. These tech predictions underscore the importance of staying informed, adaptable, and proactive in embracing upcoming innovations. By understanding these trends, individuals, businesses, and governments can prepare for the societal and industrial transformations that lie ahead. Whether it’s leveraging AI assistants, adopting clean energy solutions, or integrating immersive XR experiences, staying ahead of the curve ensures smarter decisions, improved quality of life, and a future in which technology empowers every aspect of daily living. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How will these innovations affect employment and skills demand? Emerging technologies will create new jobs while transforming existing roles. Skills in AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and digital design will be highly sought after, requiring continuous learning. 2. What are the ethical considerations of advanced technologies? Privacy, AI bias, genetic editing ethics, and automation impact raise important concerns. Transparent policies and responsible tech development will be essential. 3. How soon will these technologies become mainstream? Some technologies, like AI assistants and IoT, are already entering daily life. Others, such as BCIs and quantum computing, may become widely accessible closer to 2030. 4. Will every industry be affected by these advancements? Yes. Healthcare, transportation, education, agriculture, finance, manufacturing, and creative industries will all experience transformation through technology.
https://www.techtimes.com/articles/312954/20251125/future-tech-2030-12-upcoming-innovations-tech-predictions-that-will-transform-our-lives.htm

How They Voted: Colorado congressional votes for Nov. 14-20, 2023

Posted on 22/11/2025 by admin

Here’s a look at how Colorado members of Congress voted over the previous week. Along with roll call votes this week, the House also passed these measures: the Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Enhancement Act (S. 260), to require hygienic handling of breast milk and baby formula by security screening personnel of the Transportation Security Administration and personnel of private security companies providing security screening; the Strengthening Oversight of DHS Intelligence Act (H. R. 2261), to enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s oversight of certain intelligence matters; a bill (H. Res. 782), expressing condolences and support for the victims of the July 4 flooding in Texas, honoring acts of heroism, and committing to stand with those impacted by these floods; and the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act (S. 2392), to increase the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities, and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans. The Senate also passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act (H. R. 4405); the Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act (H. R. 1512), to require periodic reviews and updated reports relating to the Department of State’s Taiwan guidelines; the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act (S. 222); and the Legacy Mine Cleanup Act (S. 2741), to establish within the Environmental Protection Agency the Office of Mountains, Deserts, and Plains. House votes VEHICULAR TERRORISM: The House has passed the Department of Homeland Security Vehicular Terrorism Prevention and Mitigation Act (H. R. 1608), sponsored by Rep. Carlos A. Gimenez, R-Fla., to require a Homeland Security report on agency plans to prevent terrorism that uses cars and trucks as weapons. Gimenez said: “With major events on the horizon, including America250, the FIFA World Cup, and the Los Angeles Olympics, we must ensure every necessary security measure is in place to protect the millions of visitors and attendees these events will bring.” The vote, on Nov. 17, was 400 yeas to 15 nays. YEAS: DeGette D-CO (1st), Crank R-CO (5th), Crow D-CO (6th), Neguse D-CO (2nd), Pettersen D-CO (7th), Evans (CO) R-CO (8th), Hurd (CO) R-CO (3rd) NAYS: Boebert R-CO (4th) CHINA AND CYBER ATTACKS: The House has passed the Strengthening Cyber Resilience Against State-Sponsored Threats Act (H. R. 2659), sponsored by Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., to require the Homeland Security Department to form an interagency task force that will report on China’s targeting of American critical infrastructure systems by cyber attacks. Ogles said: “This bill strengthens unity and effort. It improves coordination. It increases visibility and accountability. It ensures that the United States can respond to foreign cyber aggression with preparation rather than reaction.” The vote, on Nov. 17, was 402 yeas to 8 nays. YEAS: DeGette, Crank, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen, Evans, Hurd NAYS: Boebert RELEASING JEFFREY EPSTEIN DOCUMENTS: The House has passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act (H. R. 4405), sponsored by Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., to require the Justice Department to post on the Internet all of its unclassified materials that involve the agency’s investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein. A supporter, Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., said: “We are committed to accountability, transparency, and justice for the American people and for the survivors of these appalling crimes.” The vote, on Nov. 18, was 427 yeas to 1 nay. YEAS: DeGette, Crank, Boebert, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen, Evans, Hurd HOUSE PRIMARY ELECTION: The House has passed a bill (H. Res. 878), sponsored by Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash., to disapprove of Rep. Chuy Garcia, D-Ill., for undermining the possibility of a free and fair Democratic party primary in his district next March by waiting until after the primary filing deadline to announce that he will not be running for re-election in 2026, thereby allowing his chief of staff to be the only registered candidate in the primary. The vote, on Nov. 18, was 236 yeas to 183 nays, with 4 voting present. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd COAL MINES ON FEDERAL LAND: The House has passed a bill (H. J. Res. 130), sponsored by Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo., to disapprove of and void a Bureau of Land Management rule issued last November, barring federal land in Wyoming from being leased for coal mining. Hageman said: “The Biden administration’s decision to terminate mining in Wyoming’s PRB [Powder River Basin] is not only irresponsible and harmful but downright illegal, a mechanism used by the governing elite to inflict harm on every single citizen of this great country to further climate change lunacy.” A bill opponent, Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., said: “The plan targeted by this resolution ended new coal leasing in the region because of its harm to the climate and public health and because of decreasing demand for coal.” The vote, on Nov. 18, was 214 yeas to 212 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd ALASKA HYDROCARBON DRILLING: The House has passed a bill (H. J. Res. 131), sponsored by Rep. Nicholas J. Begich, R-Alaska, to nullify a Bureau of Land Management rule issued last December that placed a majority of land in a specified portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge off-limits for oil and natural gas production leases. Begich said nullification “restores the full acreage Congress authorized for leasing, and it restores, importantly, the voice of the North Slope residents in Alaska.” An opponent, Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., said the bill “will do absolutely nothing to lower your energy bills, but it will allow for the sell-off of some of our most special and sacred public lands.” The vote, on Nov. 18, was 217 yeas to 209 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd SECOND ALASKA DRILLING RULE: The House has passed a bill (S. J. Res. 80), sponsored by Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, to nullify a 2022 Bureau of Land Management rule that closed oil and natural gas leasing in half of the National Petroleum Reserve in northern Alaska. A bill supporter, Rep. Nicholas J. Begich, R-Alaska, said: “It restores congressional intent. It restores certainty for Alaska’s communities. It restores America’s strategic energy reserve.” An opponent, Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., said overturning the rule was unnecessary because the Trump administration had already rescinded it for a new land management plan, making the bill “just a recipe for uncertainty and conflict and litigation.” The vote, on Nov. 18, was 216 yeas to 209 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd CENSURING DELEGATE: The House has rejected a bill (H. Res. 888), sponsored by Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S. C., that would have censured Del. Stacey Plaskett, D-Virgin Islands, for colluding with Jeffrey Epstein during a Congressional hearing in 2019, and removed her from the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Norman said: “Standing against a convicted predator’s influence in our proceedings is not partisan. It is basic decency. We cannot pretend this didn’t happen.” A bill opponent, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said: “I hope all our colleagues will reject this absurd rush to judgment in an attempt to change the subject.” The vote, on Nov. 18, was 209 yeas to 214 nays, with 3 voting present. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd CASH BAIL IN WASHINGTON, D. C.: The House has passed the District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act (H. R. 5214), sponsored by Rep. Elise M. Stefanik, R-N. Y. The bill would require pre-trial detention in jail for those suspected of committing violent crimes, and require cash bail for certain types of suspects, in Washington, D. C. A supporter, Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., said it “will ensure that violent offenders remain off of the streets of D. C. while awaiting their trial and that those charged with public safety or order offenses will face further deterrence from committing such crimes.” A bill opponent, Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., said: “Pretrial release should be based on a judge’s determination of flight risk and danger to the community. We should let trained judges and prosecutors do their jobs and consider each fact of each case.” The vote, on Nov. 19, was 237 yeas to 179 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd POLICE PROCEDURES IN WASHINGTON, D. C.: The House has passed the Common-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now in DC Act (H. R. 5107), sponsored by Rep. Andrew S. Clyde, R-Ga. The bill would repeal a 2022 Washington, D. C., law that prohibited the use of certain physical restraints by the District’s police and expanded oversight of police officers, including body-worn cameras. Clyde said repeal would help “transform D. C. from a crime-ridden capital into a safe, free, and thriving city.” A bill opponent, Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., said: “D. C.’s government should be allowed to govern themselves, to hold local leaders accountable, to elect their own leadership, and to solve problems without Congress consistently interfering.” The vote, on Nov. 19, was 233 yeas to 190 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd COUNTER-TERRORISM GRANTS: The House has passed the Enhancing Stakeholder Support and Outreach for Preparedness Grants Act (H. R. 4058), sponsored by Rep. Dan Goldman, D-N. Y., to require the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide aid to local governments regarding their use of federal grants to prevent terrorist attacks. Goldman said the bill sought to ensure “that Homeland Security grants are responsive, transparent, and actually driven by the needs of the communities they are meant to protect.” The vote, on Nov. 19, was 380 yeas to 45 nays. YEAS: DeGette, Crank, Boebert, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen, Evans, Hurd SENATOR SURVEILLANCE LAWSUITS: The House has passed a bill (H. R. 6019), sponsored by Rep. Austin Scott, R-Ga., to repeal authority for senators to file a civil lawsuit against the federal government over the wrongful surveillance of communications involving a given senator’s office. Scott said the provision up for repeal, by allowing a senator to seek up to $500,000 of damages for each individual case of surveillance, was “probably the most self-centered, self-serving piece of language that I have ever seen in my time in office in any piece of legislation.” The vote, on Nov. 19, was unanimous with 426 yeas. YEAS: DeGette, Crank, Boebert, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen, Evans, Hurd CENSURING REPRESENTATIVE: The House has agreed to refer to the House Ethics Committee a bill (H. Res. 893), sponsored by Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S. C., that would censure Rep. Cory Mills, R-Fla., and remove Mills from the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. The bill asserts that Mills has violated House standards of conduct by owning businesses that have received federal military contracts since Mills joined the House, that he has possibly lied about his conduct while in the military, and that he has been repeatedly officially charged with acts of domestic violence. Mills said: “I believe that all the accusations and false things that are being said will be proven to be absolutely false in many ways. I have the evidence and receipts, and I look forward to working with them.” The vote, on Nov. 19, was 310 yeas to 103 nays, with 12 voting present. YEAS: DeGette, Crank, Evans, Hurd NAYS: Boebert, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen REPORT ON PETROCHEMICAL REFINERIES: The House has passed the Researching Efficient Federal Improvements for Necessary Energy Refining Act (H. R. 3109), sponsored by Rep. Bob Latta, R-Ohio, to require the National Petroleum Council to make a report on U. S. petrochemical refineries and national energy security. The vote, on Nov. 20, was 230 yeas to 176 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd REGULATING NATURAL GAS TRADE: The House has passed the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act (H. R. 1949), sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, to give the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission exclusive regulatory authority over the export and import of natural gas, including facilities and operation of facilities, and repeal the requirement for Energy Department approval of gas imports and exports. The vote, on Nov. 20, was 217 yeas to 188 nays. NAYS: DeGette, Crow, Neguse, Pettersen YEAS: Crank, Boebert, Evans, Hurd Senate votes REGULATING NUCLEAR POWER: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Ho Nieh to be a member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for a term ending in the middle of 2029. Nieh has been a vice president at Southern Nuclear for four years, after more than two decades at the NRC as a nuclear power plant inspector and regulator. The vote, on Nov. 19, was 66 yeas to 32 nays. NAYS: Bennet D-CO, Hickenlooper D-CO OIL AND NATURAL GAS EMISSIONS: The Senate has rejected a motion to consider a bill (S. J. Res. 76), sponsored by Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., that would have nullified an Environmental Protection Agency rule issued this July that extended a set of deadlines for compliance with emissions regulations for crude oil and natural gas production, storage, and processing. Schiff said the rule “will help the worst polluters those who don’t want to bother to control methane leaks and who therefore waste the very same energy resources that the Trump administration claims it wants to produce.” The vote, on Nov. 19, was 46 yeas to 51 nays. YEAS: Bennet, Hickenlooper COAL MINES ON FEDERAL LAND: The Senate has passed a bill (H. J. Res. 130), sponsored by Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo., to nullify a Bureau of Land Management rule issued last November, barring federal land in Wyoming from being leased for coal mining. A supporter, Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., said overturning the rule would “protect over 4, 000 Wyoming jobs, safeguard more than $1. 9 billion in labor output, preserve the revenue that keeps Wyoming schools strong, and ensure that coal remains available to power America’s future.” The vote, on Nov. 20, was 51 yeas to 43 nays. NAYS: Bennet, Hickenlooper.
https://www.reporterherald.com/2025/11/22/how-they-voted-colorado-congressional-votes-for-nov-14-20-2023/

Trump Is Bullying Air Traffic Controllers to Get Back to Work While They’re Still Going Unpaid

Posted on 10/11/2025 by admin

Air traffic controllers aren’t being paid right now, forcing many to call out sick as they scramble to scrape together enough money from second jobs to feed their families. But President Donald Trump is not happy about it, given all the delays that are happening at the nation’s airports. The president seems convinced he can just bully his way into getting air traffic controllers to keep working for no pay.

“All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn’t will be substantially ‘docked,’” Trump wrote on Truth Social Monday morning.

Trump went on to claim that air traffic controllers who were “GREAT PATRIOTS” and “didn’t take ANY TIME OFF” will potentially be getting a bonus of $10,000. To be more precise, Trump said he would be “recommending” a bonus, which doesn’t guarantee that anyone will actually receive it.

He referred to the government shutdown, which is currently on its 41st day, as the “Democrat Shutdown Hoax.”

The U.S. Senate made some movement on Sunday toward ending the shutdown, with eight Democrats voting in an early procedural step to push forward a final vote. However, ending the shutdown still faces several hurdles, including passage in the House. Democrats received no real concessions despite originally claiming they wanted Republicans to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits.

Trump stressed his disappointment in the air traffic controllers who had not been showing up for work. They were supposed to be paid last Tuesday but instead received notices that they would be paid $0, forcing many to work jobs like driving for Uber and DoorDash.

“For those that did nothing but complain, and took time off, even though everyone knew they would be paid, IN FULL, shortly into the future, I am NOT HAPPY WITH YOU. You didn’t step up to help the U.S.A. against the FAKE DEMOCRAT ATTACK that was only meant to hurt our Country. You will have a negative mark, at least in my mind, against your record,” Trump continued.

He also said that if air traffic controllers wanted to “leave service in the near future,” they shouldn’t hesitate to do so, but they would be getting no payment or severance.

Trump’s use of the phrase “near future” is noteworthy because he seems aware that telling people to quit immediately is the opposite of what he wants. Essentially, the president is telling those he views as disloyal to come back temporarily and then quit when it’s convenient for him.

This is troubling given the current shortage of somewhere between 2,000 and 3,000 air traffic controllers, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Losing more personnel would be devastating to the goal of getting more trained and hired, even if the government shutdown ends soon.

More than 2,600 flights were canceled Sunday, and at least 1,400 flights were canceled already on Monday — roughly 5.5% of all flights nationwide, according to USA Today. That’s more than the 4% threshold ordered by the FAA as the agency phases in more cancellations, which are expected to reach 10% this week. Not all the cancellations are due to FAA-mandated slowdowns; some winter weather in the Chicago area also disrupted flights.

Duffy appeared on CNN on Sunday to emphasize the real dangers caused by being short-staffed, including incidents described as “loss of separation in the airspace,” meaning that planes are flying too close together.

The president also claimed on Monday that his administration was acquiring new equipment for air traffic controllers, describing it as “in process.”

“You will be quickly replaced by true Patriots, who will do a better job on the Brand New State of the Art Equipment, the best in the World, that we are in the process of ordering. The last ‘Administration’ wasted Billions of Dollars trying to fix antiquated ‘junk.’ They had no idea what they were doing!” Trump wrote.

He concluded with a message to those still working and those not reporting:

“Again, to our great American Patriots, GOD BLESS YOU I won’t be able to send your money fast enough! To all others, REPORT TO WORK IMMEDIATELY. GOD BLESS AMERICA! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP.”

It remains to be seen how Trump’s coercive approach will be received by air traffic controllers, who are already exhausted from trying to support their families, taking on second jobs, and doing their best during incredibly difficult times.

“I’m broken down. I’m sore. I’m mentally drained,” one controller based in the southeast U.S. told the New York Times. The controller said they had been using all their free time hanging Christmas lights to earn extra money.

“There’s some times where I felt like just going into the corner and crying because it’s been pretty tough to push through the physical pain, the tiredness and waking up the next day having to do it all over again,” the controller said.
https://gizmodo.com/trump-is-bullying-air-traffic-controllers-to-get-back-to-work-while-theyre-still-going-unpaid-2000683701

Flying soon? What you need to know as Trump admin creates holiday travel chaos

Posted on 08/11/2025 by admin

While nonessential employees were furloughed during the recent government shutdown, workers deemed essential—such as air traffic controllers—have continued their jobs. But what does this mean for the millions of Americans who take to the skies every day? To find out, The Conversation U.S. spoke with Laurie A. Garrow, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

### What Do We Know About the FAA’s Plans So Far?

The first thing to note is that the situation can change rapidly. However, as of this morning, about 4% of flights are being canceled across 40 “high-volume” airports. This list is publicly available and includes most of the major hubs in the United States such as Atlanta, New York’s airports, Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles International, and Dallas/Fort Worth.

The plan is to increase cancellations to 10% by November 14 if the shutdown continues that long. The FAA, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the airlines are working together to decide which flights and routes will be affected. This will undoubtedly be monitored closely in the coming days, with efforts made to minimize disruption for customers.

Currently, cuts are focused on domestic flights only. International flights across the Atlantic, Pacific, and to Latin America are not subject to cuts for now. The 4% cancellations mainly target high-frequency routes to help lessen the overall impact.

For example, American Airlines typically flies nine flights a day from Miami to Orlando but plans to reduce that to eight flights this weekend. Regional flights may also see reductions; a typical route such as Erie, Pennsylvania, to Charlotte might drop from three daily flights to one or two. However, the FAA has made it clear that they will not cut flights to markets entirely, only reduce the number.

### What Will This Mean for Existing Flights?

Passengers can expect more people on the flights that continue to operate. Fortunately, we are currently in the lull before the Thanksgiving travel rush, so there is more slack in the system and extra seats available. If a flight is canceled on a busy route, it should be relatively easy to accommodate passengers on another flight.

Customers are also likely to be advised to arrive at airports earlier than usual. More delays on existing flights are expected because of safety measures.

Air traffic control can only safely manage a certain number of flights at any one time. With fewer controllers available or working reduced hours, the number of airplanes in the sky must be limited. Controllers cannot safely monitor double the usual number of flights.

To manage this, more ground delay programs will be implemented to limit aircraft movements into or out of airports, especially during peak periods. While this causes delays, it is a necessary safety measure.

### What Impact Will This Have on Airlines?

At a 4% cancellation rate, the impact on airlines is expected to be relatively minor. The affected airports are major hubs, and the reduction in flights is balanced across all U.S. carriers.

However, the broader impact may ripple across industries that depend on air transportation. According to the International Air Transport Association, the U.S. air transport sector contributes $3 trillion—about 4.7%—to GDP and supports approximately 7.6 million jobs.

If the shutdown and resulting disruptions continue, especially into the holiday season, the economic impact could be more severe.

### What If the Shutdown Continues Into the Holiday Season?

If flight reductions rise to 10% by the holidays, with added delays, carriers will likely experience significant challenges. The holiday season is a peak travel time, so disruptions during this period will be especially painful for airlines and passengers alike.

### Will This Affect How Americans Choose to Travel?

Air travel is often an emotional choice—used for significant life events like family reunions, holidays, or important business meetings. Difficulty in securing timely flights could influence travel decisions this holiday season.

Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines, noted on November 7 that the airline is already seeing an impact on bookings, with people postponing or rescheduling trips. For journeys of around 500 to 600 miles, traveling by car is becoming a more attractive option for many.

### Will Passengers Be Compensated for Canceled Flights?

Passenger compensation for delays and cancellations usually depends on whether the issue was within the airline’s control. The U.S. Department of Transportation maintains a dashboard detailing airline policies for mitigating passenger inconvenience in such cases.

However, flight disruptions caused by air traffic control staffing shortages are not considered within the airline’s control. Therefore, compensation policies vary by airline.

As of November 7, many carriers have allowed customers to change flights or request refunds without penalties, even for nonrefundable fares like basic economy. Airlines recognize the importance of maintaining customer loyalty during these disruptions.

Generally, major carriers offer more compensation for delays and cancellations within their control compared to low-cost airlines.

### Is There Any Precedent for This Situation?

There is no exact precedent for a 4% to 10% across-the-board reduction in flights caused by a government shutdown.

However, major disruptions have occurred before, such as after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and during the COVID-19 pandemic, when illness among flight attendants and pilots caused cancellations and delays before the holidays.

Historically, consumers have temporarily altered their travel behavior under such circumstances. After 9/11, for example, some travelers shifted to automobile travel for shorter journeys of 500 to 600 miles due to increased airport hassle.

### What Advice Would You Give to Would-Be Flyers Now?

1. **Download Apps:** Get the airport and airline apps for the latest, reliable information.
2. **Book Early:** For major events, consider booking flights a day earlier than usual to provide a buffer in case of delays or cancellations.
3. **Avoid Connections:** The fewer flight legs, the less chance for complications.
4. **Travel Light:** Avoid checking bags if possible to avoid dealing with luggage delays if your flight is canceled.

By taking these precautions, travelers can reduce some of the stress associated with current flight disruptions.

—

*Laurie A. Garrow, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology*
https://www.alternet.org/travel-chaos-trump/

The FAA’s order to cut flights nationwide due to the government shutdown is set to take effect

Posted on 07/11/2025 by admin

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected 40 airports across more than two dozen states for schedule reductions, according to a recent order. Major hubs such as Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, North Carolina are among those affected. In metropolitan areas including New York, Houston, Chicago, and Washington, multiple airports will feel the impact. The ripple effects could even extend to smaller regional airports.

As the FAA’s official order approaches, airlines have scrambled to adjust their schedules and began canceling flights as early as Thursday. Travelers with weekend and future plans are now nervously waiting to see if their flights will take off as scheduled.

According to FlightAware, more than 780 flights have already been canceled nationwide. Delta Air Lines announced plans to cancel around 170 flights on Friday, while American Airlines said it would cut 220 flights daily through Monday.

The FAA stated that reductions will begin at 4% and could ramp up to 10% by November 14. These cutbacks, impacting all commercial airlines, will be in effect between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. The agency asserts that these measures are necessary to relieve pressure on air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay for over a month. Many controllers are working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime, and an increasing number have started calling out, citing exhaustion and financial strain.

“You can’t expect people to go in to work when they’re not getting a paycheck,” said Kelly Matthews of Flat Rock, Michigan, a frequent business traveler who has canceled most of her upcoming trips. “It’s not a matter of them not wanting to do the job, but you can’t afford to pay for gas, your day care, and everything else.”

This order coincides with the Trump administration ramping up pressure on Democrats in Congress to end the government shutdown. Airlines have said they will strive to minimize the impact on customers, with some planning to focus on reducing routes to and from small and medium-sized cities.

According to the Department of Transportation, carriers must refund customers whose flights are canceled, but are not required to cover secondary costs such as food and hotel accommodations unless the delay or cancellation was within the airline’s control.

Industry analyst Henry Harteveldt warned that the reductions will “have a noticeable impact across the U.S. air transportation system.” The cuts could also affect package delivery services, as both Memphis, Tennessee (FedEx hub) and Louisville, Kentucky (UPS hub and site of this week’s deadly cargo plane crash) are among the airports facing reductions.

*Associated Press journalists Hallie Golden in Seattle, Safiyah Riddle in Montgomery, Alabama, and Wyatte Grantham-Philips in New York contributed to this report.*
https://ktar.com/national-news/the-faas-order-to-cut-flights-nationwide-due-to-the-government-shutdown-is-set-to-take-effect/5771934/

NYC Voters want real change. They hope the next mayor can deliver it.

Posted on 03/11/2025 by admin

**New York City Mayoral Race: Voices from Harlem 24 Hours Before the Final Vote**

*By Taya Graham and Stephen Janis*

This is Taya Graham and Stephen Janis reporting from Harlem, New York, just 24 hours before the final vote in the New York Mayor’s race. We visited this bustling neighborhood to ask voters about the issues important to them, their opinions on the frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, his opponent former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and what they hope the new mayor will accomplish.

But first, let’s hear directly from the voters themselves.

—

**Mamdani vs. Cuomo: Who Do Harlem Voters Want as Mayor?**

James B Cray shared his preference:

*“Mayor Mamdani.”*

When asked why, he explained:

*“Well, Mamdani is speaking about a lot of things that really address the people, such as housing and transportation issues. I think he’s more at the forefront of what a lot of young people want to hear about. We’ve had de Blasio and Bloomberg, and the cycle just keeps going on without a lot of our issues being addressed.”*

Another voter, who asked to be identified as “Vincent,” expressed a desire for change:

*“It’s time for a change and time for new blood.”*

When pressed if that meant support for Mamdani, Vincent agreed:

*“Yes. People that care about people, it’s important.”*

He added that he appreciated how Mamdani focuses on working-class concerns:

*“He wants to do things for people who are working class, trying to get by, make a living, put food on the table, and get to work.”*

—

**Views on Media Coverage and Socialist Label**

Taya Graham noted the mainstream media narrative about Mamdani’s socialist label and asked for Vincent’s thoughts.

Vincent responded:

*“It’s interesting because our democracy used to be about helping people and supporting working people. We’ve gone away from that. Now it’s all about corporations and giving tax breaks to the wealthy. I think it’s time we let someone who represents working-class people have a chance at the table.”*

—

**Expectations and Predictions**

Richard shared his thoughts on the race:

*“Mamdani’s going to win because he’s young and a new face. Many people can’t resist that. Cuomo has had his issues; people say he messed up a lot. I don’t really hear any negativity about Mamdani.”*

Kimberly took a more cautious approach:

*“At this point, it’s about whoever is best for the job. There have been many mayors we thought were best, but we often end up with the short end of the stick. So time will tell.”*

—

**Important Issues for the Next Mayor**

When asked about the issues they want the next mayor to focus on, conversations frequently centered around housing, food security, and public transportation.

Pastor Dave expressed skepticism about both candidates:

*“Not really inspired by those choices. We had a lot of issues with Cuomo in the last couple of years when he left office. Mamdani comes with an agenda that isn’t very American or patriotic. It’s just another socialist program, and we’re not really interested in that. What would really empower people is to make them less dependent on the government and its system. So, I’m not a big fan of him because of that.”*

—

**Voting Motivations**

One voter, who spoke with us as Speaker 7, shared their reason for voting early:

*“I voted earlier because I had to do my duty. I will always vote. I didn’t want either of the other two choices, and I knew who I was voting for. Hopefully, Mamdani will be the new mayor.”*

When asked what inspired their choice, they said:

*“He’s just something different. I worry about his experience, but hopefully, he’ll have enough help. We just need something new.”*

—

As New Yorkers head to the polls, the voices from Harlem reveal a neighborhood eager for change and representation that acknowledges the daily challenges residents face—from housing and transportation to economic fairness.

Stay tuned for more coverage as the results come in.
https://therealnews.com/nyc-voters-want-real-change

D.C. Mayor Scrambles to Impose Curfew After Massive Teen Brawl Goes Viral [WATCH]

Posted on 03/11/2025 by admin

**Washington, D.C. Implements Temporary Juvenile Curfew Following Large Teen Altercation**

Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced a temporary juvenile curfew in response to a large altercation involving hundreds of teenagers in the Navy Yard neighborhood on Friday night. The curfew, effective immediately after the announcement, will remain in place through November 5.

In a post on X, Mayor Bowser stated that the curfew applies to all individuals under the age of 18 and will be enforced nightly from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

> “We are declaring a limited juvenile curfew in Washington, DC,” Bowser wrote. “Effective immediately, all juveniles under the age of 18 are subject to a curfew from 11PM until 6AM, which will extend through 11/5.”

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), groups of teenagers began gathering near the Navy Yard Metro Station at approximately 7:30 p.m. The crowd quickly grew to several hundred within just half an hour. While the gathering initially appeared peaceful, the situation escalated as fights broke out, and groups began blocking streets and ignoring officers’ instructions to remain on sidewalks.

To restore order, MPD called in assistance from multiple agencies, including the Metro Transit Police, U.S. Capitol Police, the National Guard, and members of a federal task force. This combined response aimed to prevent the situation from spreading to other areas.

By around 11 p.m., officers had successfully dispersed the crowd, cleared nearby parks, and directed many of the juveniles toward Metro stations to leave the area. Police maintained an increased presence overnight in the neighborhood to deter additional disturbances.

In connection with the incident, four teenagers from Washington, D.C., and one 18-year-old from Maryland were arrested, though the MPD has not released their names.

The MPD confirmed that the juvenile curfew will specifically apply to high-traffic locations that have seen repeated large gatherings and disorderly behavior involving minors in recent weeks. These enforcement zones include the U Street Corridor, Banneker Recreation Center, Navy Yard, and Union Station.

In a press release issued Saturday, MPD Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith condemned the violence and announced that law enforcement agencies would increase their presence in affected neighborhoods.

> “The behavior displayed last night in Navy Yard is unacceptable, and MPD and our law enforcement partners will have an increased presence tonight to ensure this does not happen again,” Chief Smith said. “This group chose not to visit any of the events hosted by MPD or our DC agency partners and instead gathered in this manner.”

Mayor Bowser’s decision follows multiple reports of escalating juvenile disturbances across the city in recent months. Earlier this fall, police responded to several incidents involving large groups of minors near public transportation hubs and recreation centers.

City officials describe the curfew as a temporary measure aimed at curbing disorderly activity while longer-term solutions are under consideration. Under District law, minors violating curfew orders can be detained by police and released to a parent or guardian. Repeat violations may result in fines or community service requirements.

The MPD emphasized that its primary focus will be on ensuring public safety and preventing property damage rather than punitive enforcement.

The limited juvenile curfew is expected to remain in effect through November 5, covering the city’s busiest Halloween weekend period. Police officials stated they will evaluate the curfew’s effectiveness before considering any extensions or adjustments.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/11/d-c-mayor-scrambles-to-impose-curfew-after-massive-teen-brawl-goes-viral-watch/

Federal workers in South Florida left disheartened, struggling to get by amid government shutdown

Posted on 24/10/2025 by admin

**Federal Workers in South Florida Struggle Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown**

*FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN)* — Federal workers across South Florida are facing financial hardships and growing disheartenment as the federal government shutdown continues, caught in the crossfire of a political battle.

At Miami International Airport on Friday, several Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents were seen picking up food distributed by Feeding South Florida. With no end to the shutdown in sight, these federal workers are navigating tough times.

“It does help, especially for us that have kids at home and stuff, so it helps,” said one TSA worker. Another added, “I’m grateful for all the things that we are receiving today.” A third TSA agent commented, “It’s very nice of them, because we could use it.”

Friday marked the first payday federal employees have gone without their paychecks since the government shutdown began. Republican and Democratic lawmakers failed to pass a spending bill to keep the government open past October 1st. Currently, about 1.4 million federal workers are either on unpaid leave or working without pay.

Caught in the middle of the political stalemate, many federal workers are left trying to manage their finances amid uncertainty.

“So now you have to pick and choose, what can I pay now, what can I postpone, can I call the creditors to see if they’ll work with me,” said a 10-year federal employee who wished to remain anonymous. Having previously served in the military, including deployment to Afghanistan, she expressed deep frustration.

“It’s disheartening ’cause I’ve served with, you know, my country and I chose to do it again. On this side, it’s almost like a slap in the face,” she said.

Retired TSA instructor Harry Herring told 7News the financial stress caused by the shutdown adds to an already stressful job for TSA employees.

“Rent, car loans, car insurance, all those expenses that have to be taken care of, it’s not gonna be taken care of,” said Herring. “That causes what I call ‘interference with my ability to do my duty.’”

Shaunellia Ferguson, who represents nearly 700 Social Security Administration workers for the American Federation of Government Employees in eastern Florida, said her members continue to work despite the hardship.

“We are human beings too. We don’t make a lot of money, we’re not wasteful, we’re not parasites the way they’re calling us, we’re not,” said Ferguson. “Especially now without getting paid, you’re still doing it, you’re still hearing all the concerns and you’re sitting there wondering ‘How is my rent gonna be paid?’ or ‘How am I gonna cover child care?’ We have feelings just like everyone else and we work and we are here to serve you, the American public.”

Organizations like Feeding South Florida have been working tirelessly to support federal workers throughout the country. However, Ferguson emphasized that what federal employees truly want is for politicians to come together and find a solution.

*Copyright.*
https://wsvn.com/news/local/miami-dade/federal-workers-in-south-florida-left-disheartened-struggling-to-get-by-amid-government-shutdown/

Christopher Miller: Protect Virginians from paying billions for data center infrastructure

Posted on 24/10/2025 by admin

Christopher G. Miller has served as The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) president since 1996. He leads strategic planning for PEC, including its land conservation program, habitat restoration, rural economics, energy policy, land use policy, smart growth, and transportation policies.

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https://dailyprogress.com/opinion/column/article_1df95201-5272-54cc-a238-3db51d37f413.html

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