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METROLINK’S FRESHLY REFURBISHED TRAIN CARS PROVIDE NEW AMENITIES FOR RIDERS

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LOS ANGELES – Metrolink put into service a refurbished passenger train car featuring new and improved passenger amenities designed for a more enjoyable, productive and safe ride. The train car is the first of 50 slated for renovation.

“We are thrilled to begin the roll out of the renovated train cars, with upgrades to enhance passengers’ travel experiences, into our system,” Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said. “The ‘new’ train cars have a contemporary interior, charging ports at each seat, and a number of enhancements providing passengers with a safer and more comfortable ride with elevated amenities.” Enhancements include features that make the train cars easier to clean, such as vinyl seating and non-carpeted flooring, as well as enhanced air filtration and UV lighting for bacteria, air pollutant and virus protection. Passengers will appreciate the new energy-efficient lighting and bathrooms with a modern look and better odor control. For enhanced safety, the refurbished cars also have side door obstacle detection, three emergency intercom buttons on every car and emergency fresh air ventilation in case of power loss.


Check out the story here: https://metrolinktrains.com/news/metrolink-news/metrolinks-freshly-refurbished-train-cars-provide-new-amenities-for-riders-comfort-and-travel-safety/

What is Metrolinbk?

Metrolink (reporting mark SCAX) is a commuter rail system in Southern California, serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties, as well as Oceanside in San Diego County. The system consists of eight lines and 69 stations operating on 545.6 miles (878.1 km) of track. This includes Arrow, which Metrolink operates under a contract with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA).[6]

In 2023, the system had a ridership of 4,861,000, or about 17,400 per weekday as of the first quarter of 2024.

Metrolink connects with Los Angeles County’s Metro Rail and Metro Busway systems, San Diego County’s Coaster commuter rail and Sprinter hybrid rail services, and with Amtrak‘s Pacific Surfliner, Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, and Texas Eagle intercity rail services. Metrolink owns several hundred miles of track; however, it also shares track with freight railroads.

The system, founded in 1991 as the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) and adopting “Metrolink” as its moniker, started operation in 1992. Average weekday ridership was 42,928 as of 2017. It is operated by Amtrak under contract with the SCRRA.

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  • Railfan Rod

    Writer, filmmaker, model railroader, dreamer, posting videos and articles about trains, planes, travel and vacations. Also, posting transportation and railfanning articles, videos and updates about his own model railroad layout via his webpage, the rail project View all posts


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Writer, filmmaker, model railroader, dreamer, posting videos and articles about trains, planes, travel and vacations. Also, posting transportation and railfanning articles, videos and updates about his own model railroad layout via his webpage, the rail project

STM Blog

Addressing the Lies and Bigotry Against Haitian Immigrants in Springfield, Ohio

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Springfield, Ohio
A mural adorns a wall in the city of Springfield, Ohio, U.S. September 11, 2024. REUTERS/Julio-Cesar Chavez

The depth of animosity arising from a few incendiary words is hard to comprehend. Springfield, Ohio, is currently living through a nightmare. The city has been branded by unfounded claims recently. These claims come from former President Donald Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance. Baseless allegations have unleashed a wave of bigotry and fear. Notably, claims that Haitian immigrants are killing and eating pets are part of these allegations. The fallout has been catastrophic: bomb threats, school closures, and a community gripped by anxiety and distrust.

Springfield, Ohio

The recent segment of PBS News Hour featured correspondent William Brangham and Springfield City Manager Bryan Heck. Upon reflection, it is clear that the situation is dire. Over 33 bomb threats have been reported, fueled by nothing more than inflammatory rhetoric. This has led to the local immigrant community living in a state of heightened fear. Brangham’s reporting echoes the voices of those who are suffering. One father is too frightened to be identified. He expressed how something as innocent as biking with his son in the park has become too risky. His fear shows how hateful narratives affect real life. These narratives have turned his everyday life into a continuous cycle of fear.

Bryan Heck openly discussed Springfield’s challenges resulting from national rhetoric. He lamented how the city is now caught in a political maelstrom, struggling against a tide of false claims that distort the reality of their immigrant population. The Haitian residents are not criminals or a burden; they contribute to the local economy and enrich the community they now call home. The irony is striking: those who have come to Springfield in search of a better life are being scapegoated instead.

It pains me to see that bigotry seems to be given a free pass in this situation. Hate groups have capitalized on the misinformation, which has allowed rhetoric previously relegated to the fringes to seep into the mainstream. This past week, Springfield residents found flyers from the KKK labeling Haitian immigrants as “disease-ridden and filthy.” No one should ever feel unsafe in their own community due to identity or race. The presence of such open hate should spur outrage and action, not silence.

While I’ve noticed some pockets of pushback, including televised town meetings where members of the Haitian community, as well as Alden Clark’s family, have voiced their concerns, I struggle to understand why more isn’t being done. Why is Senator J.D. Vance, who represents Ohio, putting the city—and its residents—through this turmoil? It feels disheartening to consider that someone in power would employ such harmful tactics simply for political gain, with little regard for the truth or the people affected.

I also think of Philomene Philostin, a local pastor who runs a grocery store serving the Haitian community. She articulated the frustrating reality of being dehumanized in the midst of personally contributing to Springfield’s cultural tapestry. “Why do they not see the good things the Haitian community has done?” she asked, resonating with the many who feel overshadowed by the noise of hatred. To these families, Springfield has not just been a destination; it has been a hope-filled future built through hard work and community.

The narratives being constructed around Haitian immigrants in Springfield are deliberate, dangerous, and deeply misleading. There are no credible reports of pets being harmed; those assertions have simply been fabricated to foster fear. Health data from Clark County indicates that the influx of Haitian immigrants has not correlated with increased disease or crime; in fact, health officials reported that communicable diseases largely decreased between 2022 and 2023. Vance’s claims about heightened crime have been dismissed as political posturing, leaving residents to wonder why their lives are in turmoil over fabrications.

This isn’t just about Springfield. It’s about how society addresses bigotry at large. How often do we allow lies and stereotypes to dictate our discourse? The danger is exacerbated when no one—neither leadership nor community—stands up to challenge these woefully inaccurate assertions. It’s a reflection of our larger societal issues regarding race, immigration, and compassion.

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As we continue to navigate this crisis, my hope is that the voices of truth and understanding will prevail over hate. We must demand more from our leaders, push back against the tide of misinformation, and work toward fostering an inclusive community where fear and divisiveness have no place. Springfield, a town with so much potential, deserves a future built on unity and respect rather than division and fear. It’s time for everyone to step up, confront these lies head-on, and support the rich diversity that makes our communities strong.

For further reading, check out these links:

https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/maddowblog/springfield-ohio-consequences-gop-lies-still-linger-rcna173475

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/how-life-in-springfield-has-been-disrupted-by-lies-about-its-haitian-community

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/the-bridge

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

https://stmdailynews.com/

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Authors

  • Lynette Young

    Lynette Young is a passionate writer and blogger, sharing insights on livable cities, urbanism, and transportation. As an experienced mom, she captures the essence of community through her engaging stories. View all posts blogger/ writer

  • Rod Washington

    Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts


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Senior Pickleball Report

Unlock Your Pickleball Potential: Expert Tips on Training and Recovery with David Welles

In a new episode of People of Pickleball, Sleeves interviews David Welles about his pickleball journey, his product Yobow leg massager, and recovery tips.

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David Welles
Sleeves chats with David Welles on this episode of the People of Pickleball Podcast

I’m excited to share a sneak peek into the latest episode of People of Pickleball! In this episode, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with David Welles, a passionate member of JBB United from the National Pickleball League and an influential figure in the Chicago Pickleball League. If you’re even a casual pickleball enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to tune in!

David Welles

David and I dove deep into his journey as a competitive player, and it was inspiring to hear his stories. We talked about the various challenges and victories he’s faced on the court, and how the tight-knit community of pickleball has played a vital role in his growth as an athlete. One thing that stood out to me was his unwavering passion for the game—not just for competition but for the joy it brings to everyone involved.

Watch the full episode

But that’s not all! David also shared insights about his innovative product, the Yobow massager. In our conversation, he explained how it’s designed to help players recover and maintain peak performance. Whether you’re training hard or just enjoying a casual game, understanding the importance of recovery is something every player should consider. David’s enthusiasm for the Yobow and its impact on athletes is contagious, and I can’t wait for you to hear all about it.

While I won’t give away any spoilers, I can promise that our discussion is filled with valuable tips, personal anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. It’s a refreshing reminder of why we love pickleball and the bonds we create along the way.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to join us for this enlightening chat. I truly believe it will stir your excitement for the game and maybe even inspire you to incorporate some new recovery techniques into your routine.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait for you all to listen to the episode with David Welles—it’s going to be a good one!

Keep paddling and see you on the court!

David Welles

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Yobow

https://theyobow.com

IG:@davidwellesone

Naples JBB United

https://www.nplpickleball.com/naples-jbb-united

National Pickleball League (NPL)

https://www.nplpickleball.com

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Hey, “People of Pickleball” fans! Looking for some great deals on the latest pickleball gear and services? We’ve got you covered! Just head over to this link https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links/  for exclusive discounts crafted just for our listeners.

Don’t miss out on elevating your game with top-notch pickleball essentials at amazing prices! https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links/

More info about the Pickleball International Cruise https://www.pickleballintl.org

Sleeve’s SPR on the web: https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/

Sign up for the SPR Newsletter and get news and episode release info right into your inbox: https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/sleeves-spr-newsletter-sign-up/

Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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Authors

  • Michael J Sliwa

    Over the past few years, Mike has become an insane pickleballer (pickler), fortunately for the senior 50+ crowd he started his show, Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report. He spends the rest of his time speaking on social justice and spending time with his beautiful wife, Karen, and enjoying simple living in his ger/yurt. View all posts

  • Rod Washington

    Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts


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Urbanism

Riding the Rails to the Future: Brightline West’s Game-Changing Announcement

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Brightline West
Brightline West train races through the scenic California desert, promising a swift and sustainable journey between Southern California and Las Vegas. Image Credit Brightline West

Brightline West Project

As a passionate advocate for modern transportation, I am beyond excited about the latest development in American rail: the Brightline West project, which is officially one step closer to reality with the recent signing of a $3 billion grant agreement by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)! This project isn’t just another rail line; it’s a historic leap forward for high-speed rail in the U.S. and a beacon of progress for public transportation enthusiasts like myself.

On September 26, 2024, this monumental agreement was finalized, marking the beginning of what many of us have dreamed about for decades—true high-speed rail connecting Las Vegas to Southern California! With trains capable of reaching speeds over 200 miles per hour, we’re talking about radically transforming how we travel between these two bustling regions.

To have a project of this magnitude come to life thanks to a strong public-private partnership is inspiring. Just look at the numbers: over 35,000 jobs are expected to be created, including 10,000 union construction jobs. This is a huge win, not only for those in the industry but also for local economies and communities, and it sets a precedent for future infrastructure efforts across the country.

Michael Reininger, the CEO of Brightline, really hit the nail on the head with his assertion that this project will “jumpstart the high-speed rail industry in America.” It’s long overdue, and finally, we are moving forward. The Brightline West project won’t just connect cities; it will embody a bold, eco-friendly approach to our transportation challenges—reducing CO2 emissions by over 400,000 tons annually and removing three million cars off the roads that currently choke the I-15.

Imagine this: a seamless, comfortable two-hour journey from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga, complete with onboard amenities like food and Wi-Fi. For someone who routinely endures the endless traffic jams on the freeway, the thought of relaxing in a sleek train while taking in the stunning California desert views excites me beyond measure! No more cramped airplane seats or endless hours stuck in a car; we’ll be able to travel in style and comfort.

And it warms my heart to see the emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The fact that Brightline West will utilize zero-emission, fully electric trains positions it as the premiere green transportation choice in America. It’s initiatives like these that give me hope for our future and showcase how modern rail can lead the way in combating climate change.

Heavy construction is slated to kick off in 2025, and early groundwork is already ongoing. Crews are busy drilling geotechnical borings along the I-15, and I can practically feel the anticipation in the air! Soon enough, we’ll see new stations sprouting up, including one right in the heart of Las Vegas—a city known for its bright lights and bustling energy!

As someone who often travels for both leisure and business, I am particularly looking forward to the role this project will play as we approach the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Brightline West will undoubtedly serve as an essential transport option for visitors and residents alike, highlighting what a modern transportation system can achieve.

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In closing, there’s so much to be excited about! The Brightline West project calls forth a vision of the future that is connected, rapid, and environmentally conscious. It represents the culmination of years of advocacy, dreaming, and hard work. I look forward to seeing how this journey unfolds as we ride the rails toward a new era in American transportation.

Here’s to the future of rail in America! 🚄🌟

Until next time, happy rail journeys, everyone!

This post is inspired by the recent developments surrounding the Brightline West project.

https://www.brightlinewest.com

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge

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Author

  • Rod Washington

    Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts


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