In a groundbreaking event on April 22, 2024, Brightline West officially started the construction of America’s first true high-speed rail system. This monumental project will connect Las Vegas to Southern California, covering a distance of 218 miles. The vision behind Brightline West is to provide a transportation solution for city pairs that are too short to fly and too far to drive. This innovative rail system will run fully electric, zero-emission trains capable of reaching speeds of 200 miles per hour, making it the greenest form of transportation in the world.

The significance of Brightline West goes beyond its environmental benefits. It is a watershed project that will establish the foundation for a new industry and supply chain in high-speed rail in America. President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill has provided $3 billion in funding for this project, with the remaining cost of $3.5 billion being privately funded through allocated private activity bonds from the USDOT.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by esteemed officials and public figures, including U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline Founder Wes Edens, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, and several senators and representatives from California and Nevada. Over 600 people, including union representatives, project supporters, and state and local officials, were present to celebrate this historic moment.

Construction of Brightline West will take place within the median of the I-15 highway, with zero grade crossings. The rail system will include stops in Las Vegas, Victor Valley, Hesperia, and Rancho Cucamonga. The project will use an impressive amount of materials, such as 700,000 concrete rail ties, 2.2 million tons of ballast, and 63,000 tons of 100% American steel rail. Over 160 structures, including viaducts and bridges, will be built, covering more than 3.4 million square feet with retaining walls. The entire project will be fully Buy America Compliant.

Brightline West aims to revolutionize travel between Southern California and Las Vegas. The rail system will reduce travel time to just two hours, nearly half of the time it takes to drive. The Las Vegas Station will be conveniently located near the iconic Las Vegas Strip, providing easy access to the Harry Reid International Airport, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the Raiders’ Allegiant Stadium. The other stations, including Victor Valley, Rancho Cucamonga, and Hesperia, will offer seamless connectivity to various locations in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties.

The economic and environmental benefits of Brightline West are significant. The $12 billion investment in infrastructure will generate over $10 billion in economic impact for Nevada and California and create more than 35,000 jobs, including 10,000 direct union construction roles and 1,000 permanent operations and maintenance positions. The rail system will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by over 400,000 tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to reducing vehicle miles traveled by more than 700 million each year and eliminating the need for 16,000 short-haul flights. Additionally, Brightline West will construct three wildlife overpasses to ensure the safe passage of native species, particularly the bighorn sheep.

The success of Brightline West builds upon Brightline’s existing rail system in Florida, which connects Miami to Orlando. With plans to expand further to Tampa, the Space Coast, and the Treasure Coast, Brightline is spearheading the development of high-speed rail in the United States.

The groundbreaking of Brightline West is a historic step towards transforming transportation in America. This ambitious project brings us closer to fulfilling the dream of high-speed rail and sets an example for future city pairs in the country. As we witness the start of construction, we eagerly anticipate the day when Brightline West connects Las Vegas and Southern California, providing a faster, greener, and more efficient mode of transportation for millions of travelers.

Source: Brightline West

https://www.brightlinewest.com/media/press-releases/2024/brightline-west-breaks-ground-on-americas-first-high-speed-rail-project-connecting-las-vegas-to-southern-california

ABOUT BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline is the only private provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity passenger rail service in America – offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road by connecting city pairs and congested corridors that are too short to fly and too long to drive. Brightline West will connect Las Vegas and Southern California with the first true high-speed passenger rail system in the nation. The 218-mile, all-electric rail service will include a flagship station in Las Vegas, with additional stations in Victor Valley and Rancho Cucamonga. At speeds up to 200 miles per hour, trains will take passengers from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga in about two hours, twice as fast as the normal drive time.

Brightline is currently operating its first passenger rail system connecting Central and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, with future stations coming to Stuart and Cocoa. For more information, visit www.brightlinewest.com and follow on LinkedIn, X, Instagram and Facebook.

QUOTE SHEET

“Through this visionary partnership, we are going to create thousands of jobs, bring critical transportation infrastructure to the West, and create an innovative, fast, and sustainable transportation solution. Nevada looks forward to partnering with Brightline on this historic project.” – Governor Joe Lombardo, Nevada

“Today, not only are we breaking ground on a historic high-speed rail project here in Nevada, we are breaking ground on thousands of good paying American jobs, union jobs.” – Steve Benjamin, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement

“For decades, Nevadans heard about the promise of high-speed rail in our state, and I’m proud to have led the charge to secure the funding to make it a reality. Today’s groundbreaking is the beginning of a new era for southern Nevada — creating thousands of good-paying union jobs, bringing in billions of dollars of economic development, enhancing tourism to the state, reducing traffic, and creating a more efficient and cleaner way to travel. This is a monumental step, and I’m glad to have worked across the aisle to make this project come true.” – Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

“Having high-speed rail in Las Vegas will electrify our economy in Southern Nevada, and I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone today. This project is on track to create tens of thousands of good-paying union jobs while cutting down traffic on I-15, and I’ll keep working with the Biden Administration to get this done as quickly as possible and continue delivering easier and cleaner transportation options for everyone in Nevada.” – Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)

“Today’s groundbreaking is a historic step in modernizing rail service in the United States. Californians driving between the Los Angeles region and Las Vegas often face heavy traffic, causing emissions that pollute the air in surrounding communities. The Brightline West Project will provide travelers with more options—helping Californians and visitors alike get to their final destination without facing gridlock on the road.” – Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

“High-speed rail in the Southwest has been a dream as far back as the nineties when Governor Bob Miller appointed me to the California-Nevada Super Speed Train Commission. As a senior Member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I am honored to have helped write the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and secure $3 billion to turn that dream into a reality which will generate millions of dollars in tax revenue, reduce carbon emissions by easing traffic on Interstate 15, and create thousands of good-paying union jobs. I am proud to stand with advocates and transportation leaders as we break ground on the Brightline West project and look forward to welcoming high-speed passenger rail to Southern Nevada.” – Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-1)

“For decades, high-speed rail was just a dream in southern Nevada – but now, I’m beyond proud that we finally made it a reality. I worked across the aisle to help negotiate, craft, and ultimately pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because I knew it would kickstart transformative projects like Brightline West that will stand the test of time. Together, we’re cutting down on traffic, boosting our tourism economy, and creating thousands of good-paying union jobs.” – Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3)

“I am proud to join Brightline West for the groundbreaking of this monumental project for Southern Nevada and the southwestern United States. By connecting Las Vegas to Southern California via high-speed rail, we will boost tourism, reduce congestion on the I-15 corridor, and create jobs. The impact on our local economy and the people of the Silver State will be tremendous. In my conversations with Secretary Buttigieg, Brightline West, and our Nevada labor leaders, I know that local workers and our Nevada small businesses will benefit from this transformational investment. This will be the nation’s first true high-speed rail system, blazing a new path forward for our nation’s rail infrastructure, and we hope it will serve as a blueprint for fostering greater regional connections for many other cities across the country. – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-4)

“Brightline West’s groundbreaking today marks the construction of a dynamic high-speed rail system that will link Las Vegas, Hesperia, and Apple Valley to Rancho Cucamonga’s Metrolink Station, creating new jobs and fostering economic growth in California’s 23rd Congressional District. This convenient alternative to driving will reduce the number of cars on the road, decreasing emissions and reducing congestion in our High Desert communities. This is an exciting step and I look forward to the completion of this project.” – Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23)

“Today’s groundbreaking on the Brightline West high-speed rail project marks an incredible milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to fulfilling the promise of high-speed rail and emissions-free transportation across the country. As a longtime supporter of this project, I helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has already invested over $3 billion to support the completion of this project. By increasing transportation options, spurring job creation and new economic opportunities, and improving our environment through cutting over 400,000 tons of carbon pollution each year, this project will be transformative to my district and all of Southern California for generations—particularly in and around the last stop in Rancho Cucamonga. With the goal of being operational in time for Los Angeles to host the Summer Olympic Games in 2028, I look forward to Brightline West facilitating travel for the millions visiting our region and elevating our 21st-century connectivity on the global stage.” – Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28)

“As the Member of Congress that represents the City of Rancho Cucamonga and a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, it is my honor to participate in breaking ground on one of the most highly anticipated high-speed rail projects in the country. We gathered today thanks to the Biden Administration’s leadership, which enacted the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to fund vital projects like this and transform our economy. The Brightline project is a stellar illustration of the power of successful public-private partnerships. Thanks to all the labor unions, Tribes, and wildlife advocates for their hard work, which brought this project to life. The bright line is fully electric and has zero emissions, which is excellent for our environment. I am eagerly anticipating the completion of this project in my district and look forward to seeing everyone there.” – Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35)

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In a world where representation matters, Louis Gossett Jr’s contributions to the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. As the first black man to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, his impact and talent have left an indelible mark on the film industry. With his passing at the age of 87, we take a moment to honor and remember the legacy of this trailblazing actor and activist.

Rising to Prominence
Born on May 27, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Gossett Jr’s journey to success began on the stage. Early on, he showcased his acting skills in school productions and made his Broadway debut in the play “Take A Giant Step” at just 16 years old. His talent and dedication eventually led him to study at New York University, where he found himself among the likes of Hollywood icons James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, and Steve McQueen.

Breaking Barriers
Gossett Jr’s breakthrough came in 1977 when he portrayed the memorable character Fiddler in the groundbreaking TV miniseries “Roots.” The series explored the horrors of slavery, and Gossett Jr’s moving performance earned him an Emmy Award. This pivotal role opened doors for future opportunities and established him as a respected and versatile actor.

Academy Award Success
In 1982, Gossett Jr’s outstanding portrayal of the formidable Marine drill instructor in “An Officer and a Gentleman” opposite Richard Gere and Debra Winger earned him the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This achievement made him the first black man to receive this honor, cementing his place in Hollywood history. Gossett Jr’s Oscar win enabled him to choose a variety of compelling roles, including those in “Enemy Mine,” “Sadat,” and “Iron Eagle.”

Advocacy and Overcoming Challenges
As a vocal advocate for racial equality, Gossett Jr faced his fair share of challenges throughout his career. From enduring racism to shaping his own narrative, he consistently exhibited strength and resilience. His personal experiences motivated him to establish the Eracism Foundation, an organization dedicated to eradicating racism and promoting inclusion and understanding.

Legacy and Lasting Impact
Beyond his groundbreaking achievements on screen, Gossett Jr will be remembered for his warmth, creativity, and dedication to his craft. From his unforgettable performances to his influential activism, he opened doors for aspiring actors and contributed to a more inclusive and diverse industry. Gossett Jr’s legacy serves as a reminder that talent and determination can transcend barriers and inspire generations to come.

Louis Gossett Jr’s passing is a loss felt deeply by the entertainment industry and beyond. He will forever be remembered as a pioneer, breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams. With gratitude, we honor his contributions and celebrate his rich legacy. As we bid farewell to a remarkable talent, we are reminded of the immense impact one person can have on the world. Rest in peace, Louis Gossett Jr.

Enemy Mine

“Enemy Mine” is a captivating science fiction, action and drama movie that was released in 1985. The talented Wolfgang Petersen directed the movie, and it was written by the skilled Edward Khmara. The film is based on an intriguing novella written by Barry B. Longyear. The storyline follows a human soldier and an alien soldier who get stranded on a hostile planet, and must work together to survive. Despite their differences and mutual distrust, they learn to cooperate and develop a bond of trust. Dennis Quaid and Louis Gossett Jr. deliver outstanding performances in the lead roles, bringing the characters to life with their exceptional acting skills.

“Enemy Mine” is an international co-production between the United States, the United Kingdom, and West Germany. The filming began in Budapest in April 1984, under the direction of Richard Loncraine. However, the director had creative differences with producer Stephen Friedman and executives at 20th Century Fox, leading to the project’s shutdown after only a week of shooting. Wolfgang Petersen then took over as director and reshot Loncraine’s scenes after moving the production to Munich.

The original budget of the film was $17 million, but the cost rose to more than $40 million after accounting for marketing expenses. Unfortunately, the film was a box office failure, earning just over $12 million during the 1985 holiday season. However, the film was a success in the former Soviet Union, as it was the first Western sci-fi film to be shown in theaters. Over time, it gained a significant cult following. (Wikipedia) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enemy_Mine_(film)

https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, the tranquility of Phoenix, Arizona was momentarily disrupted by the roar of jet engines as a North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) F-15 fighter jet streaked across the sky. The reason? An unidentified aircraft had breached restricted airspace, prompting a swift response from NORAD to ensure the safety and security of the area.

According to U.S. Air Force officials, radar systems detected an aircraft operating without communication with air traffic control within the no-fly zone established due to President Joe Biden’s visit to the Valley. The incident unfolded around 7:30 a.m., triggering NORAD’s protocols for investigating potential airspace violations.

In a coordinated effort to assess the situation, NORAD dispatched an F-15 jet to intercept the unauthorized aircraft. Flying at approximately 7,000 feet, the fighter pilot initiated a visual inspection, while observers on the ground may have caught a glimpse of the high-speed pursuit unfolding above.

Despite the prompt response and visual confirmation by NORAD, military officials remained tight-lipped about the nature of the intruding aircraft and its outcome following the F-15’s intervention. This reticence is common in matters of national security, where disclosing sensitive information could compromise ongoing operations or reveal defense capabilities.

NORAD’s ability to swiftly detect and respond to airspace violations underscores the importance of its sophisticated network comprising radars, satellites, and fighter jets. This multi-layered system enables NORAD to identify rogue aircraft and determine the appropriate course of action, whether it involves interception, communication, or other measures to mitigate potential threats.

In an emailed statement to Arizona’s Family, an Air Force official emphasized the critical role of NORAD in safeguarding the airspace of the United States and Canada. “The identification and monitoring of aircraft demonstrate how NORAD executes its aerospace warning and aerospace control missions,” the official stated, highlighting the organization’s commitment to maintaining air sovereignty and protecting against unauthorized incursions.

The incident over Phoenix serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required to ensure the safety and security of airspace, particularly during high-profile events or visits by dignitaries. While most flights operate within established protocols and communicate effectively with air traffic control, occasional deviations or breaches necessitate swift and decisive action to prevent potential risks to public safety.

For NORAD, responding to airspace violations is part of its broader mission to provide aerospace warning and control capabilities, not only during times of crisis but also in routine operations to uphold national defense objectives. Through continuous monitoring and rapid response capabilities, NORAD stands ready to defend North American airspace against any threat, whether accidental or deliberate.

While the details of Wednesday’s incident remain shrouded in secrecy, the successful interception by NORAD underscores the effectiveness of its protocols and the professionalism of its personnel. By leveraging advanced technology and strategic coordination, NORAD maintains a robust defense posture, deterring potential adversaries and ensuring the safety of airspace for all.

As the investigation into the unauthorized aircraft continues, NORAD’s vigilance remains unwavering, ready to respond to any future threats with precision and determination. In a world where security threats evolve rapidly, organizations like NORAD play a crucial role in safeguarding the skies and preserving peace and stability for generations to come.

The incident over Phoenix serves as a testament to the tireless efforts of NORAD and its partners in maintaining air sovereignty and protecting against potential threats. By remaining vigilant and responsive, NORAD ensures that the skies above North America remain safe and secure for all who inhabit and traverse them.

NORAD’s advanced technology and strategic coordination enable them to maintain a strong defense posture, deterring adversaries and ensuring airspace safety. As the investigation into the unauthorized aircraft continues, NORAD remains vigilant and ready to respond to future threats with precision. In a rapidly evolving security landscape, organizations like NORAD are crucial for protecting the skies and preserving peace for future generations. The incident over Phoenix highlights NORAD’s tireless efforts in maintaining air sovereignty and defending against potential threats. By remaining vigilant, NORAD ensures the safety and security of the skies above North America.

Source: AZ Family

https://www.azfamily.com/app/2024/03/21/norad-sends-f-15-jet-suspicious-aircraft-over-phoenix/

https://stmdailynews.com/