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Cast Your Vote in the Bobcat Park and Rec Makeover Contest
ive Finalists Compete for a $100,000 Grand Prize Makeover
WEST FARGO, N.D. /PRNewswire/ — Five finalists are vying to win the Bobcat Park and Rec Makeover Contest worth $100,000, and public voting is now open to help determine the winner.
Bobcat Park and Rec Makeover Contest
Bobcat Company, which launched the contest in mid-July by teaming up with brand ambassador and renovation expert Chip Gaines for a baseball field makeover in Waco, Texas, aims at inspiring communities to look for the potential in their hometown.
Hundreds of nominations were submitted from parks across 44 states. Finalists were selected in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) based on several criteria, including demonstrated need, sustainability impact and long-term community benefit.
The finalists include:
- Aaron Perry Park in Pontiac, Michigan: Traditionally used for baseball and soccer, the park’s baseball fields have fallen into disrepair and are now unusable. The two baseball fields at the park require full restoration, with the goal of the Pontiac Youth Recreation Program using the space for its Youth Baseball Program.
- Chestnut Street Park in Henderson, North Carolina: Currently used for basketball games and community gatherings, the park lacks running water and permanent restrooms. The basketball court requires significant repairs due to large cracks. If selected, the park will be enhanced to better accommodate family gatherings and community picnics, continuing its role as a vital community space.
- City of Purcell in Purcell, Oklahoma: The tennis courts at the Purcell Multi-Purpose Center require significant repairs, including resurfacing the courts and upgrading the outdated, maintenance-intensive lighting system. The city aims to revitalize the area with new surfaces, modern lighting and additional amenities to ensure a safe and accessible space for the community. Plans also include expanding the courts to accommodate Pickleball.
- Ivan K. Hill Park in Winfield, Alabama: This multi-use park, featuring ballfields, playgrounds and a senior center, requires updates to improve safety and accessibility. Plans include replacing the original 1960s fencing and backstop and enhancing access to the fields and restrooms. The renovations aim to ensure long-term accessibility for both players and spectators.
- Jones Park in Galveston, Texas: Jones Park has long been neglected, suffering from a lack of shade trees and frequent flooding, rendering it unusable for extended periods. The proposed overhaul includes a new basketball court, benches, sidewalks, and trees or shade structures, creating a safe and revitalized space for the community.
“We are moved by the incredible stories from communities nationwide, which highlight the need for park improvements to create safe and accessible gathering spaces,” said Laura Ness Owens, Bobcat vice president of global brand and marketing. “Through this contest, we hope it inspires others to recognize opportunities within their own neighborhoods and find ways to give back.”
Voting is open through Oct. 3 at bobcat.com. Individuals can vote once per 24-hour period during the voting period. The winner will be announced in late October 2024. The contest runner-up will receive a new Bobcat zero-turn mower.
To learn more about how Bobcat is giving back to communities, please visit bobcat.com.
About Bobcat Company
Bobcat Company empowers people to accomplish more, a mission it has honored since creating the compact equipment industry in 1958. As a leading global manufacturer, Bobcat has a proud legacy of innovation, delivering smart solutions to customers’ toughest challenges. Backed by the support of a global dealership network, Bobcat offers an extensive line of worksite solutions, including loaders, excavators, tractors, utility vehicles, telehandlers, mowers, turf renovation equipment, light compaction, portable power, industrial air, forklifts, attachments, implements, parts and services.
With its North American headquarters in West Fargo, North Dakota, Bobcat leads the industry with its innovative offerings designed to transform how the world works, builds cities and supports communities for a more sustainable future. The Bobcat brand is owned by Doosan Bobcat Inc., a company within Doosan Group.
About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, climate-readiness, and overall health and well-being. For more information, visit nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit parksandrecreation.org.
©2024 Bobcat Company. All rights reserved.
SOURCE Bobcat Company
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Tyreek Hill and the Miami-Dade Police Incident: What Really Happened and Where the Case Stands Now
Get the full timeline of the Tyreek Hill police incident in Miami, why the traffic stop sparked outrage, and what the investigation shows so far.
police officer on police bike, motorcycle
In September 2024, Miami Dolphins star Tyreek Hill found himself at the center of a controversy that spread across social media, sparked national debate, and triggered an internal investigation inside the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD). More than a year later, many fans still wonder what actually happened that day — and whether Hill ever moved forward with legal action. Here’s a clear breakdown of the incident and the current status of the case.
The Traffic Stop That Sparked Outrage
On the morning of September 8, 2024 — just hours before the Dolphins’ season opener — Hill was pulled over near Hard Rock Stadium for alleged careless driving and a seat-belt violation. What followed was a violent escalation that shocked fans and critics alike.
Body-cam and bystander video footage released shortly after the incident showed officers pulling Hill from his vehicle, forcing him to the ground, placing a knee on his back, and handcuffing him. Hill later said he complied with commands and didn’t understand why the encounter became so aggressive.
The videos went viral almost instantly, raising widespread concerns about excessive force, bias in traffic stops, and how police interact with high-profile Black athletes.
A Police Officer With a History of Complaints
The MDPD later identified the officer who forcibly removed Hill from the vehicle as Danny Torres — a 27-year veteran of the department. Records revealed Torres had a long disciplinary history, including multiple suspensions for issues such as improper procedures, force violations, discourtesy, and body-camera failures.
Following public backlash, MDPD placed Torres on administrative duty pending an internal-affairs investigation. As of the latest updates, the department has not released final findings or announced disciplinary action beyond that initial administrative reassignment.
Traffic Citations Dismissed — But Not Because Hill Was Innocent or Guilty
In November 2024, Hill’s traffic tickets were officially dismissed — not because the court ruled in Hill’s favor, but because the officers who issued the citations didn’t show up in court. Without the officers present to testify, the judge dropped the case due to “lack of prosecution.”
The dismissal frustrated Hill’s legal team, who argued it showed a lack of accountability within the department. The MDPD later stated that an officer’s absence from court “does not indicate the citation lacked merit.”
Did Tyreek Hill Sue the Miami-Dade Police Department?
Short answer: No — at least not yet, and not publicly.
Hill’s legal team has repeatedly said they were exploring “every legal remedy,” including a potential civil-rights lawsuit (often filed federally under Section 1983). But after extensive research through public court records and news archives, there is no evidence that Hill has filed a federal or state civil lawsuit against MDPD or any of its officers.
If a lawsuit had been filed, it likely would have generated major media coverage — especially given Hill’s profile and the viral nature of the incident. Instead, all reporting continues to describe Hill’s legal posture as “considering,” “evaluating,” or “preparing,” not filing.
Why the Case Remains Unresolved
Several factors may explain why the legal process remains in limbo:
Internal affairs reviews take time — and MDPD has not publicly concluded its investigation. Hill’s legal team may be waiting for the department’s findings before proceeding. Negotiations or private discussions between attorneys and the county may be occurring behind the scenes. A lawsuit could still be filed at any time if Hill’s team decides to move forward.
Without public filings, official disciplinary announcements, or new footage, the case remains in a holding pattern.
The Bigger Picture
The Tyreek Hill incident resurfaces bigger questions about policing, transparency, and accountability. The videos of Hill’s detainment reignited debates familiar to many Americans: When does a routine traffic stop become unnecessarily violent? Why aren’t officers held accountable when they fail to appear in court? And how do prior disciplinary issues go unaddressed for years?
While Hill returned to the field that same day — even mocking the handcuffs in a now-famous touchdown celebration — the impact of the incident still lingers in Miami and the NFL community.
What to Watch For Next
Here’s what could happen going forward:
MDPD may eventually release the internal-affairs findings. The county could impose discipline or policy changes based on the investigation. Hill’s legal team may file a civil-rights lawsuit. The case could appear in federal or state court if filings become public.
Until then, the situation remains officially unresolved, with more questions than answers.
For more information on the Tyreek Hill incident, see the following sources:
- The Guardian — Tyreek Hill detained in pregame traffic stop by Miami-Dade Police
- NBC Miami — Officer in Tyreek Hill stop had prior discipline record
- Miami New Times — Hill’s traffic citations dismissed after officers fail to appear in court
- CBS News Miami — Tyreek Hill calls for officer firing after forceful traffic stop
- ESPN — What we know so far about Tyreek Hill’s traffic stop incident
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Stories of Change
Delivering What Matters Most This Holiday Season
Delivering What Matters! This holiday season, give gifts that matter. Support UNICEF’s mission to deliver essentials like nutrition, education, and shelter to children worldwide through meaningful charitable giving.
Delivering What Matters Most This Holiday Season
(Family Features) As families prepare for the holidays, presents and packages fill doorsteps seemingly on demand. For millions of children around the world, however, each delivery carries more than convenience – it carries purpose. For example, UNICEF continues its lifesaving work, delivering essentials like nutrition, shelter and warm clothes to children who need it most. From Sudan to Ukraine, Gaza to Malawi and beyond, the organization delivers more than just supplies – it provides a hopeful future for children around the world. When conflict unfolds, when disaster strikes or when the winter cold hits, the organization’s critical aid is never out of reach, even for the world’s hardest-to-reach children. This holiday season, give a gift that matters. With UNICEF Market and Inspired Gifts, you can bring education and lifesaving tools to children around the world. An Art Therapy Kit can give children an outlet needed to heal while a Math Classroom Kit can open doors to brighter futures. Through The K.I.N.D. Fund – now celebrating its 15th anniversary – you can support education in Malawi by providing children with desks and scholarships to help kids go beyond elementary school learning levels.
You can send Essential Winter Kits – filled with clothing – to ensure children stay safe through the cold months. Every gift fuels the mission of pursuing a more equitable world for every child. These partner gift ideas also support the organization’s global work: Your Marriott Bonvoy points can protect and care for children worldwide. From Dec. 2-9, the travel company will match five points for every point members donate to philanthropic partners, up to 25 million total points. Furthermore, members who earn 50 or 75 qualifying nights in a calendar year are eligible to select UNICEF to benefit from their Annual Choice Benefit with a $100 USD donation. Learn more at giving.marriott.com. Give the gift of holiday radiance with The Serum by Clé de Peau Beauté. Whether you are treating yourself or a loved one, this gift is sure to spread some cheer. Since 2019, the brand has proudly donated $14.5 million total to UNICEF to support girls’ education and empowerment around the world. Find out how you can help unlock the power of girls at cledepeaubeaute.com. To help tackle the stigma around poor mental health and provide support for children, young people and caregivers globally, Jo Malone London will donate a minimum of 70% of the recommended retail price from each Charity Home Candle sold to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF with a commitment to raise at least $200,000 from July 1, 2025 by June 30, 2026. For more information, visit jomalone.com. Children of the world are too often at risk, exposed to conflicts, diseases and natural disasters that threaten their safety and well-being. Since 2016, Louis Vuitton has helped protect these children through its partnership with UNICEF. Each year, the brand creates a dedicated Silver Lockit collection in support of UNICEF’s work, and more than $24 million has been donated through this initiative. For 2025, a new design was created in collaboration with House Ambassador and UNICEF Korea Goodwill Ambassador Felix. Engraved with the word “DREAM,” representing every child’s right to grow, live and learn in a nurturing environment with access to education, health care and protection. For each piece purchased, $100-200 will be donated to help deliver life-saving assistance and education to children in urgent need around the world. Learn more at us.louisvuitton.com. Visit unicefusa.org/stories/delivering-vital-supplies-children-who-need-them-most to learn more and deliver what matters most to children this holiday season. Stories of Change: People Making a Difference
Discover inspiring stories of changemakers making a positive impact. Explore videos and articles of people tackling today’s biggest challenges with action and hope. Visit: https://stmdailynews.com/stories-of-change/
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Holiday Assist 2025: Assistory Outreach Services Distributes 400 Thanksgiving Meal Kits to South Phoenix Families
Assistory Outreach Services reached a milestone at Holiday Assist 2025, distributing 400 turkeys, grocery bags, and cases of water to South Phoenix families. Supported by Spinato’s Pizzeria, Niagara, Walmart, and Republic Services, the event continues its mission to help families enjoy a complete Thanksgiving meal.
Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Holiday Assist 2025: Assistory Outreach Services Provides 400 Thanksgiving Meal Kits to South Phoenix Families
Assistory Outreach Services, led by President and CEO Jon Taylor, celebrated a major milestone at this year’s Holiday Assist event that was held on November 21, 2025, which was its third year serving the South Phoenix community with free Thanksgiving meal supplies. What started as a neighborhood-centered effort has grown into a vital annual tradition that brings relief to families facing financial challenges during the holidays.
Held at South Pointe, the 2025 Holiday Assist event successfully provided 400 families with everything needed to prepare a full Thanksgiving meal. Volunteers and corporate partners came together to ensure each family left with a complete set of essentials including:
1 turkey
1 grocery bag packed with canned goods and side dish ingredients
1 case of bottled water, provided through a generous donation from Niagara
Jon Taylor (through the Assistory Outreach Facebook Page) praised the community’s support, stating:
“We did it, South Pointe. We gave out 400 turkeys, 400 grocery bags, and 400 cases of water. Our goal was to give kids and their families what they needed for a Thanksgiving meal. The mission in year three was accomplished.”
Community Partnerships That Powered the Event
This year’s Holiday Assist was strengthened by a coalition of local organizations and businesses dedicated to giving back:
Spinato’s Pizzeria
Spinato’s showed up in force with volunteers who helped pack and distribute meals. Their team worked side-by-side with Assistory Outreach to ensure every family received their supplies with dignity and care.
Niagara
Niagara donated 400 cases of water, adding an essential household staple to each meal package.
Republic Services & Walmart
Both organizations offered volunteers and logistical support, contributing to the smooth delivery of the large-scale distribution.
Media Spotlight
The event drew local media attention, including coverage from NBC 12 News Phoenix, which highlighted Assistory Outreach’s continued growth and community-first mission.
A Growing Tradition of Giving
The success of Holiday Assist 2025 underscores Assistory Outreach Services’ commitment to uplifting families in tough economic times. With the help of sponsors and volunteers, Jon Taylor’s team continues to demonstrate that community, compassion, and collaboration are powerful tools for change.
“Our goal was to give kids and their families what they needed for a Thanksgiving meal.” — Jon Taylor
“The mission in year three was accomplished.”
Want to support Holiday Assist or volunteer at future events?
Visit Assistory Outreach Services online or follow them on social media to learn how you can help “Help Assist Others” year-round. https://assistoryoutreachservices.com/
Stories of Change: People Making a Difference
Discover inspiring stories of changemakers making a positive impact. Explore videos and articles of people tackling today’s biggest challenges with action and hope. Visit: https://stmdailynews.com/stories-of-change/
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