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Articles by Katie Allen
Six Months of Clean Bay Collective: Building a Baseline for Alamitos Bay
Over the past six months, community members throughout Long Beach have been helping us take a closer look at the health of Alamitos Bay. Through Clean Bay Collective, volunteers collect water quality measurements at locations throughout the bay and its connected waterways. Our goal is to better understand what is normal, how conditions vary from place to place, and how the ecosystem may change over time.
Supreme Court Data Privacy Ruling Threatens EdTech That Tracks Students’ Parents 24/7 Original
As the Supreme Court made waves with its landmark ruling protecting women’s and girls’ sports, the court also published another landmark ruling that met with little public discussion: Chatrie v. United States. Chatrie focused on answering the question of whether or not law enforcement accessing Google Location History data constituted a Fourth Amendment search.
The Push for River Interceptors
This week, regional leaders, public agencies, and The Ocean Cleanup announced expanded efforts to intercept plastic pollution flowing through the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers before it ends up on our beaches, along our coastline, and eventually in the Pacific Ocean. For those of us who live in Long Beach, this is more than a regional environmental story.
Place to Place: Building Connection Between Long Beach and Catalina
This week, our team went out to Catalina Island for the first time to work with local students. It was one of those days where you can feel why this work matters, not just in theory, but in a very real, human way. Being on the island, working with students who actually live there, we felt really honored to be there with them. We weren’t visiting as tourists like locals are used to, but as a locals ourselves, coming from Long Beach just across the water.
School 'Mindfulness' Apps Are Harvesting Your Child's Health Data Original
Mindfulness meditation programs have become an integrated part of K-12 public education, with companies marketing improved student achievement, discipline, and well-being. What parents don’t realize is that these programs come with a hidden cost — the collection of their child’s data. The expansion of AI and student surveillance software in education has brought capabilities such as behavioral detection and monitoring of social media, student communications, and online activity.
From Place to Planet: Algalita’s 2025 Year in Review
To Our Algalita Community, As I look back on this year, I am struck by how beautifully Algalita’s local and global work intertwined. For years, we have been both a community-rooted Southern California organization and a global resource for educators and young leaders. In 2025, these two sides of our mission strengthened one another in new and meaningful ways. Across Southern California, thousands of young people stepped into their roles as scientists, leaders, and environmental stewards.
"It's All About Community"
This week in the Suicide Prevention Month Awareness series, we’re highlighting the importance of community and support. One of the missions of the Be Well Coalition is suicide prevention, but we know we can’t do it alone. We are a small county of tightly-knit communities. We support each other when our neighbor is in need because of a fire, a cancer diagnosis or a needed heart surgery. Let’s now add mental health support and suicide prevention to that list of supports that we give so willingly.
Meeting aims to boost local sports official numbers
BOONE - In response to a growing shortage of local and regional sports officials, Watauga County Parks and Recreation hosted an interest meeting on Thursday, April 10, at the Watauga Recreation Center. The meeting aimed to recruit new officials for youth and high school athletics across the High Country, including Watauga and Avery counties.
Meeting aims to boost local sports official numbers
HIGH COUNTRY —In response to a growing shortage of local and regional sports officials, Watauga County Parks and Recreation hosted an interest meeting Thursday, April 10, at the Watauga Recreation Center. The meeting aimed to recruit new officials for youth and high school athletics across the High Country, including Watauga and Avery counties.
ACHS engineering students excel in competitions
NEWLAND — Avery County High School’s engineering program under SkillsUSA continues to succeed in and out of the classroom, producing top-tier students who compete and win at state and national levels. These students have demonstrated their innovation and technical skills through various projects, earning awards that help them succeed in college and beyond.
Despite Helene impact, GMHG set to entertain this July
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Despite Helene impact, GMHG set to entertain this July
LINVILLE - Each July, the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games transform the High Country into a hub of Scottish heritage, drawing upwards of 40,000 attendees and competitors worldwide. What began in 1956 as a single-day event has grown into one of the largest Scottish clan gatherings in the world. This year, 109 family societies will be set up along MacRae Meadows, continuing the tradition of sharing history, family heritage and a sense of community.
Scrap, Paper, Scissors opens new business doors in Banner Elk
BANNER ELK — A new business in Banner Elk is giving scrapbookers a space to create, learn and connect. Scrap, Paper, Scissors, owned by longtime scrapbooking instructor Leslie Theys, opened its doors on March 1 at 2949 Tynecastle Highway. Theys, who has been teaching the art of scrapbooking for 27 years, said she wanted to create a welcoming environment where people of all skill levels could gather and share their passion for preserving memories.
New Footsloggers location at Lees-McRae College boosts school spirit and identity
BANNER ELK — Footsloggers Outdoor and Travel Outfitters, with locations in Boone, Blowing Rock and West Jefferson, is making an impact on the Lees-McRae College campus with its new location. The shop is helping strengthen school pride as it fills the void left by the closure of the previous bookstore and now offers a fresh selection of licensed school merchandise, along with a wide range of outdoor gear essentials.
Despite Helene impact, GMHG set to entertain this July
LINVILLE — Each July, the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games transform the High Country into a hub of Scottish heritage, drawing upwards of 40,000 attendees and competitors from around the world. What began in 1956 as a single-day event has grown into one of the largest Scottish clan gatherings in the world. This year, 109 family societies will be set up along MacRae Meadows, continuing the tradition of sharing history, family heritage and a sense of community.
Health officials urge precautions as Flu, Norovirus, and RSV cases rise
AVERY COUNTY — With flu, norovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases on the rise, local health officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities. “We are seeing a significant spread of viral illnesses right now, particularly flu and norovirus,” said Jennifer Greene, Health Director of AppHealthCare.
Fifth Grade Slope Seekers enjoy ski season at Beech
BEECH MOUNTAIN — Nearly 30 Avery County fifth graders had the experience of a lifetime this winter, thanks to a new initiative from Beech Mountain Academy. The 5th Grade Slope Seekers program, a collaboration between Beech Mountain Academy, Avery County Schools, Beech Mountain Resort, Gear for Groms, and other community partners, provided local students with the opportunity to learn to ski and snowboard, many for the very first time.
Carver shares update on BES happenings
BANNER ELK — Banner Elk Elementary School Principal Justin Carver addressed the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club on Tuesday, Feb. 4, highlighting the school’s successes, upcoming events and the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene and winter weather disruptions. Carver emphasized the role of strong community support in the school’s achievements, crediting local organizations like Kiwanis and the Parent Teacher Organization for helping make extracurricular activities happen.
Longtime state park employee Dyer retires
ROAN MOUNTAIN — After 43 years of dedicated service, Vicky Dyer has retired from Roan Mountain State Park, leaving behind a legacy as the heart and soul of the park, fondly known as the “First Lady of Roan Mountain.” Dyer began her journey at Roan Mountain at just 18 years old, initially hired through the CETA youth employment program in 1981. Starting as a front room clerk, she quickly became the friendly face that greeted guests, answered phones, checked in visitors and handled reservations.
Lasting Legacy: Retired teacher, school board member Col. Dave Allen passes away
Selfless, genuine, patient, loving, the epitome of good are just a few of the many words used to describe the late Lieutenant Colonel Carl “Dave” Allen who passed away recently following complications from a nearly six-year long battle with cancer.
An epic year for Algalita!
**Photo: Charlie was the Grand Marshal of the Belmont Shore Parade this year and our float won best original design!! Creating meaningful human experiences has always been foundational to Algalita’s mission – and I intend for my annual letter to be no exception! I hope the updates I share with you today spark a sense hope and excitement, knowing that our organization continues to drive real change towards a cleaner and safer world.
Wayfinder Society for Environmental Education goes LIVE on May 23. Join our Launch Event!
On May 23, we are launching a brand-new new program that honors over a decade of Algalita’s work with teachers and students. Wayfinder for Environmental Education is a free and open-source program that equips teachers and students with everything they need to explore the deepest depths of environmental education, while supporting each other and celebrating our humanness every step of the way. Join us for our launch event and celebration happening via Zoom on Tuesday, May 23 from 4-5pm PT.
Pacific Gas and Electric : Five Simple Ways to Gobble Up Energy Savings and Help Reduce Higher Holiday Energy Bills
By Katie Allen The holiday season is upon us. With a drop in temperatures, shorter days and longer nights, guests staying over, and appliances operating on overdrive the Thanksgiving holiday can lead to an increase in energy use. PG&E understands customers are facing rising costs for a variety of products and services and we are here to help with tips and tools that can lower winter energy use and manage monthly bills.
Pacific Gas and Electric : Ways to Reduce Energy Bills in Recognition of National Energy Efficiency Day
By Katie Allen Though it's emphasized Wednesday (Oct. 5) on National Energy Efficiency Day, PG&E's commitment to helping customers reduce bills with energy efficiency is a year-round effort. "Energy efficiency is a critical tool to help customers reduce their bills and grow local economies by creating sustainable employment. EE Day reminds us ofthe importance of being energy efficient every day," said Aaron August, PG&E vice president of Utility Partnerships and Innovation.
Pacific Gas and Electric : Climate Credit from State Program Will Lower Bills this Month
By Katie Allen More than 5 million Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) electric customers will automatically receive the California Climate Credit on their energy bill this month. The credit was created by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) as part of the state's efforts to fight climate change. PG&E is pleased to administer the credit in a timely manner to help reduce customer energy bills this month.
Pacific Gas and Electric : Take Advantage of PG&E Programs and Tools to Manage Energy Costs During Extreme Heat
By Katie Allen This summer ended up being one of the hottest in the state's history with last month being the warmest month on record for several Central Valley cities. Historic high temperatures in many areas drove record energy use during the 10-day major heat wave earlier this month. Preliminary usage data shows that on average, PG&E customers' residential usage increased almost 30% the week of September 4th over the same time last year.
Pacific Gas and Electric : As Spring Begins, Find Ways to Reduce Usage as Customers May Be Using their Furnace and Air Conditioner Right Now
By Katie Allen PG&E is marking the beginning of spring by offering simple steps to keep energy efficiency in mind during the March Equinox. It's entirely possible to use both the furnace and air conditioner on any given spring day as temperatures can range dramatically from day to night. Here are ways to stay comfortable in the home this spring while managing energy use and electric bills: Install and set a programmable thermostat.
T188 1.10.21 WOKING - What's Good To Do
Registered office: 52 Torquay Drive Leagrave Luton Beds LU4 9LN t: 03333 034865 whatsgoodtodo.com is a trading name of Toys and Clothes Limited which is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 04638670 Payment method accepted – Paypal This website is available in English.
T173 17.9.21 WOKING - What's Good To Do
Registered office: 52 Torquay Drive Leagrave Luton Beds LU4 9LN t: 03333 034865 whatsgoodtodo.com is a trading name of Toys and Clothes Limited which is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 04638670 Payment method accepted – Paypal This website is available in English.
The Chill Warm Weather Playlist We All Need Right Now
I think we can **cautiously** say that spring is finally here! And with the 60-degree weather and sunshine, I know I am already starting to have dangerous daydreams about summer… So here are 15 songs to help you remember that the days will only continue to get warmer and classes will soon be over! These songs make me think of sitting at the end of a sun soaked dock with my feet in the water, of soft grass underneath my feet, and watching golden sunsets with friends. 1.
5 Feminist Female Rappers and Singers You Should Be Listening to Now
Destiny Nicole Frasqueri, a.k.a. Princess Nokia, is a 25 year old American rapper of Afro-Puerto Rican descent from New York City. She dropped her latest mixtape, 1992 Deluxe, in 2017. She is the co-founder of the feminist collective Smart Girl Club. (Check out the Insta here!) Princess Nokia is a self-proclaimed feminist and makes feminism a staple in her music. She is unapologetically herself, the definition of confidence and female strength.
Gillig Receives PG&E Rebate Check for Energy Reduction Program - The Independent: Milestones
When Gillig, the largest school and transit bus manufacturer in the country, needed more space to accelerate production, it moved its operations from Hayward to a 700,000-square-foot facility in Livermore earlier this year. The new building was the size of 12 football fields Gillig wanted to ensure the larger facility didn’t also produce a larger electricity bill, so the company signed up for an energy assessment through PG&E’s Savings By Design.
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