Jessica Taylor
Austin
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Articles by Jessica Taylor
Audit finds Robbins didn’t follow financial state provisions, guidance
A state audit found the Moore County town of Robbins is failing to meet state guidelines. (Courtesy Town of Robbins) RALEIGH — The Town of Robbins’ financial management personnel did not fully comply with state provisions from 2021 to 2025, according to a recent Rapid Response Special Report issued by the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor. The report discovered internal financial weaknesses alongside a forged check totaling $3,570. The Town of Robbins filed a police report on Aug.
Audit finds Robbins didn’t follow financial state provisions, guidance
A state audit found the Moore County town of Robbins is failing to meet state guidelines. (Courtesy Town of Robbins) RALEIGH — The Town of Robbins’ financial management personnel did not fully comply with state provisions from 2021 to 2025, according to a recent Rapid Response Special Report issued by the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor. The report discovered internal financial weaknesses alongside a forged check totaling $3,570. The Town of Robbins filed a police report on Aug.
Comprehensively Yachts - Yachting Industry Briefing, July 2024
As the northern hemisphere’s summer season begins and the rush of pre-season work slows down, we have found time to put pen to paper to bring you the latest edition of Comprehensively Yachts, which we hope you find full of thought-provoking topics and analysis.
Paving the way for precision treatment of psychiatric symptoms with functional connectivity neurofeedback
TY and MK are inventors of patents related to the functional connectivity neurofeedback method. The original assignee of the patents is ATR, with which the authors are affiliated. We have no other conflicts of interest. UMIN000015249 jRCTs052180169 This work was supported by the contract research Brain/MINDS Beyond (Grant Number JP18dm0307008, JP21dm0307102h0003), from the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED).
Austin Disaster Relief Network readies supplies for Smokehouse Creek Fire
AUSTIN, Texas — The Smokehouse Creek Fire continues to burn tonight, growing to more than one million acres and taking the label of the largest fire in state history. The flames have killed one person and the fire remains only three percent contained. That's why the Austin Disaster Relief Network is preparing to leave Austin with supplies in tow. "Every opportunity we get to serve individuals and families, we lean in," said executive director Dwight Bailey.
SCOTUS hears oral arguments in case on bump stocks ban
AUSTIN, Texas — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments for Garland V. Cargill, a case that centers on whether a bump stock qualifies as a machine gun. A bump stock is a gun attachment that may be used on semi-automatic weapons to discharge hundreds of rounds, which some have compared to machine guns. The ban on bump stocks came from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, after the deadly mass shooting at a Las Vegas music festival in 2017.
'Give us another shot' CapMetro leaders say they're working out issues at new station
AUSTIN, Texas — Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority CEO Dottie Watkins gave an apology at Monday’s board meeting after many people waited in long lines Saturday night to get home after Austin FC’s game. “I sincerely apologize to our rail customers whose experience was impacted by the service,” said Watkins. Watkins issued an apology on social media and on a blog post, citing mechanical and communication issues. “Two seemingly conflicting things can be true at the same time.
Summer camp registration opening up across Austin
AUSTIN, Texas — Summer camps in Austin are opening up their registration. The city’s visual and performing arts and nature-based summer camps open up tomorrow for Austin residents and non-Austinites, and they're expected to book up fast. There are several other summer camp opportunities available through other organizations, including the YMCA. "Summer is a time for fun," said Sarah Rinner, Associate VP for out-of-school time & operations, at Greater Austin YMCA.
New report shows Taylor & Austin Samsung facilities contribute $26.8 billion to economy
Samsung shares that their Taylor and Austin campuses combined have led to a $26.8 billion impact, according to the latest 2023 Fiscal Impact report. The report conducted by Impact DataSource, LLC, tracked the economic and fiscal impact of Samsung Austin Semiconductor, LLC on the Central Texas area last year. The highlights include: Economic Growth: From 2022 to 2023, Samsung Austin Semiconductor’s economic impact on the region nearly doubled from $13.6 billion to $26.8 billion.
White-nose syndrome could put a bat species found near Austin on the endangered list
AUSTIN, Texas — Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, tri-colored bats are one of the bat species you can spot in Austin. However, Tri-colored bat populations have been declining across the country due to a deadly disease called white-nose syndrome. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has proposed listing the tricolored bat as an endangered species. The bats have distinctive pink-colored forearms and translucent wings.
McKalla Station grand opening set for Saturday, February 24
AUSTIN, Texas — It’s full steam ahead for Capital Metro's new McKalla Station. The station opens to riders starting Saturday to coincide with Austin FC's home game. On Saturday, free fares are being offered to those coming to and from the stadium on the red line. "This is a spectacular addition to what was already a spectacular stadium," said Andy Loughnane, Austin FC President. CapMetro says the design has been thoughtful.
Panel touches on educational impacts from SB 17
AUSTIN, Texas — An event celebrated on UT’s campus Monday highlights the life and work of Barbara Jordan and how her legacy can serve in the current political climate. The 28th annual Barbara Jordan National Forum welcomed lawmakers and community members for a discussion on education and policy. A timely topic of conversation came up on Senate Bill 17 and its impacts. SB17 prohibits higher education institutions from engaging in diversity, equity, and inclusion activities.
Texas DA blasts governor's move to pardon man convicted of murder of BLM protester
AUSTIN, Texas (KEYE) — A district attorney’s office in Texas reacted strongly on Friday to news that state officials have officially begun investigating whether to recommend a pardon for Daniel Perry. Perry was convicted last year of murder for the 2020 fatal shooting of Garrett Foster, who was attending a Black Lives Matter protest in Austin following George Floyd’s murder by a police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Less than 24 hours after the verdict, Gov.
Resolution supporting live music concert series, Blues on the Green, passes
by Jessica Taylor Fri, February 16th 2024 On Thursday, musicians and community members urged members to pass a resolution calling for the city manager to look into preserving free events and having the city co-sponsor Blues on the Green. The resolution passed with 10 votes in favor and CM Mackenzie Kelly recusing herself from the vote. (Photo: CBS Austin) AUSTIN, Texas — Austin City Council shows signs of supporting free events in Austin including the beloved Blues on the Green.
Eyewitnesses describe chaotic scene at St. David's ER after fatal vehicle crash
by Jessica Taylor Wed, February 14th 2024 A car crashed into the emergency room of St. David's North Austin Medical Center on Tuesday night, causing chaos and injuries. The accident resulted in the death of the driver, Michelle Holloway, 57, and injuries to five others, including two children. (Image courtesy: Stephen Hughes) Those waiting at the St. David's North Austin Medical Center ER only had a split second to react as a car plowed through the main glass windows.
Jury selection to begin next week for criminal case centered on Javier Ambler's death
AUSTIN, Texas — Both sides say they're ready to go to trial in the case of two former Williamson County deputies, Zachary Camden and James Johnson, charged with manslaughter for the death of Javier Ambler. He died in 2019 during a traffic stop filmed for the now-canceled reality show 'Live PD.' At a pre-trial hearing Tuesday, the judge announced the trial can be recorded, but only livestreamed during opening statements. closing arguments. and the reading of the verdict.
Stabbing incident meets definition of a hate crime, according to APD committee
AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department announced it's classifying the stabbing at West Campus earlier this week as a hate crime. The department's hate crimes review committee will now send the information to the Travis County District Attorney's Office which can enhance the offense to a hate crime.
Stabbing incident meets definition of a hate crime, according to APD committee
AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department announced it's classifying the stabbing at West Campus earlier this week as a hate crime. The department's hate crimes review committee will now send the information to the Travis County District Attorney's Office which can enhance the offense to a hate crime.
Family confronts Justin Haden's killer as he accepts 50-year plea deal
The family and close friends of Justin Haden addressed Gavin Roberts directly on Tuesday. Roberts took a plea deal on Monday for the killing of Haden in 2022. He was sentenced to 50 years in prison. "I’ve come to realize sometimes there’s just true evil that exists in this world. And you Gavin Roberts, personify this. You live in my nightmares," said a family member of Justin Haden's in court.
Lake Travis home and business owners hope rain trends continue as lake sits 39% full
TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — "We love the sunshine and everything like that, but the rain is what we need right now," said Austin Edwards, a Lake Travis business and homeowner. Every little bit of rain is helpful for homeowners and business owners in Lake Travis, like Angel and Austin Edwards.
Texas Children's opens new hospital in North Austin
There's a new healthcare option for people living in Austin. The Texas Children's hospital North Austin campus held its grand opening today. The campus has been in the works for years and they’ll officially start providing outpatient services on February 5 and inpatient February 20th. "We have our nursing staff, our respiratory therapists, our physical therapists, they've intentionally gone in to care for children.
Voter registration for primary elections ends on February 5th
AUSTIN, Texas — The deadline to register to vote in the Texas primaries is approaching. The primaries are set for March 5, and in order to cast your ballot, you’ll need to make sure you’re registered. For Travis County voters, it takes just a few clicks.
Family of Alex Gonzales Jr. ask city to release more materials from fatal shooting
Today the lawyers representing Alex Gonzales' family shared a series of video clips never before seen by the public from Austin Police Officer Gabriel Gutierrez's deposition, and they're calling on the city to release more materials. The videos show parts of the deposition from December 5, 2023. Gutierrez is one of two officers involved in the deadly shooting of Alex Gonzales Jr. in January 2021. In 2022, a Travis County Grand Jury declined to indict officers Gutierrez and Luis Serrato.
Former Austin elementary school set to become police training center for school incidents
The former Rosedale School campus off 49th street has a long history in Central Austin. It served as an elementary school dating back to the 1940s for medically fragile students or ones with special needs. Right now, it’s vacant. "It's really not moving ready for any type of use. However, it can be utilized for police training," said Jeremy Striffler, Director of Real Estate for Austin ISD.
Inclement weather draws attention to more support needed for unhoused youth
AUSTIN, Texas — The excessive rainfall seen in Austin and our neighboring communities is exacerbating the problems homeless students and youth are facing. Local nonprofits and community advocates are hoping to shine a light on the need for year-round services that are crucial during times of crisis. "There's a common denominator with a lot of our young people that they've been through trauma.
City council members react to Acevedo announcing he won't step into manager role
AUSTIN, Texas — Former Austin police chief Art Acevedo is not accepting the new assistant city manager position announced last week. The hiring announcement was controversial from the start. Council members that spoke with CBS Austin today had differing opinions on Acevedo, on the appointment process, and on whether this position, overseeing the Austin police chief, should exist in the first place.
Supreme Court votes to allow federal border authorities to remove razor wire along border
The U.S. Supreme Court voted to allow U.S. border patrol agents to cut razor wire installed in Texas along the US-Mexico border. This decision on the emergency appeal filed by the Justice Department is the latest development in the legal battle between the Biden Administration and Governor Greg Abbott over border protection. Today's vote from the U.S. Supreme Court means that the United States can remove or cut the razor wire along the border near Eagle Pass.
Lawmakers speak about abortion access ahead of 51st anniversary of Roe V. Wade
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Lawmakers speak about abortion access ahead of 51st anniversary of Roe V. Wade
by Jessica Taylor Sat, January 20th 2024 FILE - Demonstrators march and gather near the state capitol following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Friday, June 24, 2022, in Austin, Texas. A pregnant Texas woman whose fetus has a fatal diagnosis asked a court Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, to let her terminate the pregnancy, bringing what her attorneys say is the first lawsuit of its kind in the U.S. since Roe v. Wade was overturned last year.
Austin psychologist evaluates Gypsy-Rose Blanchard's notorious medical abuse case
AUSTIN, Texas — Dr. John Fabian is a forensic psychologist and neuropsychologist living in Austin, Texas. His work often lands him in the courtroom, evaluating defendants for pre-trial and pre-sentence examinations. He also looks at their competency, risk assessment, and mental state defenses. Dr. Fabian spoke with Gypsy-Rose Blanchard before her parole hearing in September 2023. Blanchard served eight years or a ten-year sentence, related to her mother's murder.
Temporary pay and benefits for APD officers discussed at Thursday's council meeting
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin City Council moves a resolution forward on police pay and benefits while they remain out of a city contract for their work. The resolution will be brought back to the council in February for more discussion. Thursday's resolution vote comes as a related city ordinance will expire this March. The current, expiring ordinance establishes pay and benefits for officers while out of contract.
TxDOT gives virtual presentation about expansion to US-290 in Dripping Springs
The Texas Department of Transportation is asking for public input on plans to expand thirteen miles of US 290 from southwest Austin to Dripping Springs. (Photo: CBS Austin)
City sees record demand for cold weather shelters Monday night
AUSTIN, Texas — The City of Austin is returning to regular operations as conditions begin to warm up after days of bitterly cold temperatures. Tuesday morning, city and county leaders discussed the winter weather operations and readiness over the holiday weekend. Mayor Kirk Watson stated that at least 649 people spent the night in one of the city's cold weather shelters last night, an uptick from the previous night. "Let me be clear, shelters will stay open," said Watson.
Austin is actively searching for the next permanent city manager
AUSTIN, Texas — Applications are now open for the City Manager position in the City of Austin. The application period runs until mid-February. While it may take until April or longer to fill the role, former Dallas City Manager Ted Benavides says the process of finding the right city manager for any city isn't always the fastest process, which is a good thing.
Williamson County leadership says no issues reported with Samsung plant in Taylor
Samsung may be hitting a bump in their plans for production at its Taylor, Texas chip plant. Bloomberg, citing the Seoul Economic Daily, reports the $17 billion factory for advanced electronic products, won't produce chips until 2025. Samsung, however shared with CBS Austin that the factory is still on target to be operational sometime in 2024. Taylor residents like Jim McNabb aren't too surprised to hear about potential delays. "Every big project seems to be a little bit behind.
So far, no big storm events anticipated for the start of the new year in Central Texas
People base their predictions for winter weather in Texas on all kinds of things. Some turn to the Farmer's Almanac, and others quote old wives' tales. A few may look for the markings on a woolly bear caterpillar or the shape of persimmon seeds. CBS Austin's Chikage Windler bases her forecasts on the science.
So far, no big storm events anticipated for the start of the new year in Central Texas
People base their predictions for winter weather in Texas on all kinds of things. Some turn to the Farmer's Almanac, and others quote old wives' tales. A few may look for the markings on a woolly bear caterpillar or the shape of persimmon seeds. CBS Austin's Chikage Windler bases her forecasts on the science.
Travis Co. Sheriff's Office sees improved vacancy rates heading into new year
by Jessica Taylor Tue, December 26th 2023 The Travis County Sheriff's Office reported to county commissioners that vacancy rates have improved due to increased marketing and outreach efforts, but corrections officer positions still have a 27% vacancy rate that they hope to continue addressing. (CBS Austin file image) The Travis County Sheriff's Office is hoping the trends they're seeing from this year with their vacancy rates continue.
Granite Shoals community upset over comments on 'mass euthanizing' feral cats
GRANITE SHOALS — City leaders in Granite Shoals are facing intense scrutiny after audio recordings were shared suggesting euthanizing the community's feral cat population. The comments were made at a Wildlife Advisory Committee meeting in November, leading to the Hill Country Humane Society terminating its relationship with the city. Granite Shoals is a community with around 5,000 full-time residents.
Police organizations respond to APD officer indictment
AUSTIN, Texas — A year after Rajan Moonesinghe's death, Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza announced Austin police officer Daniel Sanchez is facing a third-degree felony charge of deadly conduct. "Our family is grateful for the hard work the Travis County DA's office has put in so far to bring evidence to the grand jury and seek justice," said Rajan's mother, Ruth. Ruth Moonesinghe spoke at the press conference after DA Garza.
After another 6th St. shooting, mayor dodges questions on stopping the violence
AUSTIN, Texas — Over the weekend, one person was killed and three bystanders were injured due to an officer-involved shooting on 6th Street after a man allegedly pulled a gun on officers. The night prior, a woman brought a loaded gun into a bar. The public is asking questions about public safety and the Safer 6th Street Initiative, but many city leaders are staying quiet.
AISD names current interim superintendent as top choice for long-term | KEYE
by Jessica Taylor Fri, December 15th 2023, 7:40 PM UTC Austin, Texas — Austin ISD announces its named interim superintendent Matias Segura as the lone finalist for the long-term gig. The board of trustees reviewed six applications but ultimately announced Segura was their top choice. Segura has been serving in an interim capacity since the beginning of the year. In a letter to families today, AISD shares they're confident he will be a strong leader and say he's deeply invested in the community.
Lawsuit accuses Austin of dragging feet on police reform mandates
After a shooting rampage in Central Texas that left six people dead, the conversation on a police labor contract, and Proposition A, has been brought back into the spotlight. Concerns have been raised about Proposition A on both sides. Equity Action, the group that got Proposition A on the ballot in May, is suing the city of Austin for failure to implement key provisions.
APD officers plan to move forward with lawsuit against city and DA's office, attorney says
TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — An attorney representing five Austin police officers in civil cases tells CBS Austin they are preparing to move forward with a lawsuit against the Travis County District Attorney's Office and other entities. This stems from legal ramifications the officers were facing after the 2020 protests. The lawsuit was filed in May 2022, but paused due to the pending criminal charges.
Heroic actions, improving public safety, support: What Sabrina Rahman's family shares one week after her death
AUSTIN, Texas — It's been one week since the shooting rampage in Austin and San Antonio that left six people dead and three others injured, including two police officers. Sabrina Rahman was identified by police as one of the victims last week. Her family has been deeply impacted by this tragedy but says they are focused on preventing a situation like this from ever happening again. Sabrina's husband Ishraq Islam, and his brother Ibsan Islam, spoke with CBS Austin on Tuesday.
Attorney says multiple trials could occur in future following shooting rampage
AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department is providing more information on the string of shootings across Austin. The authorities say one victim from Shadywood Drive, Emmanuel Pop Ba was shot and killed as the suspect, Shane James, was allegedly stealing his vehicle. James then turned the gun on the second victim on Shadywood Drive, Sabrina Rahman, who witnessed the previous shooting. The announcement confirms what Pop Ba's family told CBS Austin last week, that he was killed over his car.
Shooting victim's family says they've been left in the dark, hopes for justice in loved one's death
AUSTIN, Texas — 32-year-old Emmanuel Pop Ba's family is grieving. Emmanuel is one of the victims who lost their life after being shot in Austin on Tuesday. Police have arrested and charged Shane James in connection. Emmanuel's sister-in-law and his wife spoke with CBS Austin on Thursday to share more about his life. "Good person, hard worker, dedicated to his family," said Emmanuel's sister-in-law, Filomena Caal Pop.
Shooting victim's family says they've been left in the dark, hopes for justice in loved one's death
AUSTIN, Texas — 32-year-old Emmanuel Pop Ba's family is grieving. Emmanuel is one of the victims who lost their life after being shot in Austin on Tuesday. Police have arrested and charged Shane James in connection. Emmanuel's sister-in-law and his wife spoke with CBS Austin on Thursday to share more about his life. "Good person, hard worker, dedicated to his family," said Emmanuel's sister-in-law, Filomena Caal Pop.
'You don't feel safe' neighbors shocked by violence in last 24 hours across Austin
AUSTIN, Texas — Christmas decorations adorn the outside of several homes on Austral Loop in the Circle C Ranch neighborhood in Southwest Austin. However, the once festive block became a jarring sight for neighbors as police security tape was added to the homes on Tuesday and Wednesday. Two people inside a home on the 5370 block of Austral Loop were found dead by police Tuesday night. A police officer was also shot and injured at the home.
Parents wait hours to pick up children after AISD officer shooting outside NE Austin high
AUSTIN, Texas — A text parents never want to get from their child at school is one referencing gunshots, but that’s exactly the message Amber Wynn and other parents of Northeast Early College High School students received on Tuesday. On Tuesday, the Austin Independent School District campus went on lockdown after an AISD police officer was shot. Wynn says her 17-year-old notified her of the situation.
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