Author: Admin

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Christopher J.A. Noskey, affectionately and artistically known by many as Frill Letendre. Christopher’s unexpected departure has left a space in our hearts that no words can truly mend—an unfillable void for those fortunate enough to have known his warmth, his brilliance, and his extraordinary spirit.

A Soul Full of Light and Love

Christopher was more than just a beloved family member, friend, or colleague—he was a force of nature whose presence could light up the darkest of rooms. As Frill Letendre, he captivated audiences with his creativity, his bold self-expression, and his unwavering courage to be exactly who he was. Through performance, fashion, art, or simply conversation, he inspired others to live more authentically and love more deeply.

To know Christopher was to know kindness, laughter, and generosity. He had the rare ability to make anyone feel seen and valued, whether they had just met him or known him for years. His laughter was infectious, his stories unforgettable, and his heart incredibly large.

A Devastating Loss, A Lasting Legacy

Christopher’s passing has shaken the core of our community, his chosen family, and all who were touched by his vibrant presence. For those who knew him personally, the loss feels surreal—like a star has vanished from the night sky. He leaves behind cherished memories, unspoken dreams, and a legacy defined by love, authenticity, and unapologetic beauty.

While we grieve this tremendous loss, we also celebrate the life he lived—a life full of color, compassion, and courage. He lived as an example of how to embrace one’s truth and lift others in the process.

🕊️ Honoring Christopher

Plans for a celebration of Christopher’s life will be shared in the coming days, and we invite everyone who loved him to come together in remembrance. It will be a space of tears and laughter, of music and memories, reflecting the spirit of the one we’ve lost but will never forget.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Christopher’s memory to consider donating to LGBTQ+ organizations, mental health support initiatives, or local arts programs—causes that were close to his heart and reflected his values.

💬 A Final Word

It is often said that grief is the price we pay for love. And while we are heartbroken beyond measure, we are also grateful—grateful to have known someone as beautiful, as brilliant, and as bold as Christopher J.A. Noskey.

We miss you, Christopher. We miss your light, your voice, your spirit. The world was more radiant with you in it, and though you are no longer here in body, your energy lives on—in the art, the memories, and the love you gave so freely.

Rest gently, Frill. Shine on forever.

 

Rutherford County, TN – The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office is urgently requesting the public’s assistance in gathering dash cam footage related to the tragic murder of 22-year-old Noah Taylor, a Smyrna resident who was shot and killed while driving along Interstate 24 Saturday morning.

According to Detective Thomas Burnett, Taylor was traveling on I-24 near Waldron Road toward Nashville around 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, when he was fatally shot behind the wheel. The vehicle he was driving veered off the highway and came to a stop after the incident, sparking a homicide investigation that has shaken the local community.

📹 Call for Dash Cam Footage

Authorities are specifically seeking dash cam video from drivers who were traveling between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on I-24, particularly in the stretch from Interstate 840 to the Bell Road exit. Investigators believe footage from this timeframe and area could provide crucial clues, including identifying the suspect vehicle or any suspicious activity leading up to the fatal shooting.

“Dash cam footage would be advantageous,” said Detective Burnett. “We’re interested in any video that may have captured Noah’s vehicle, other vehicles in close proximity, or unusual activity along the highway.”

If you were driving in that corridor during the specified timeframe and have dash cam footage—even if you believe it may be insignificant—please review it and contact the authorities.

📞 How You Can Help

• If you have relevant dash cam video or information, contact Detective Thomas Burnett directly at 615-904-3052.
• To remain anonymous, call Rutherford County Crime Stoppers at 615-893-7867.

All tips provided to Crime Stoppers are confidential. Your information could help solve a crime and bring peace to a grieving family.

💰 Rewards Offered

• Noah Taylor’s family is offering a $2,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible.
• Rutherford County Crime Stoppers is offering an additional reward of up to $1,000 for tips that lead to an arrest and prosecution.

In total, up to $3,000 in rewards are available for information that helps bring justice in this heartbreaking case.

🕊️ Remembering Noah Taylor

Noah Taylor was just 22 years old—a young man with dreams, a family who loved him deeply, and a full life ahead. His senseless and violent death has left his family devastated and the community in mourning. A photo shared by his loved ones shows Noah with a warm smile and kind eyes, a reminder of the bright soul that was lost too soon.

Now, as his family and detectives work to uncover the truth, the public’s help is more important than ever.

🔍 Do You Have Dash Cam Footage from July 12?

Were you driving on I-24 near Waldron Road, I-840, or Bell Road between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. on Saturday?

Please check your footage. Even a brief clip could hold vital evidence.

Let’s stand together to bring justice for Noah Taylor. Share this message, review your dash cams, and contact authorities if you have any leads. Your help could make all the difference.

 

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Christopher M. Craig, who departed this life on July 13, 2025, at the age of 88. A man of quiet strength and unwavering resilience, Christopher was a beloved member of his Georgia community and the cornerstone of his family.

Born and raised with deep Southern values, Christopher embodied loyalty, perseverance, and compassion. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife for 66 wonderful years, a marriage rooted in love, respect, and unwavering commitment. Together, they built a life filled with shared memories, enduring partnership, and the kind of love that sets an example for generations.

Christopher was also a cherished father, and among his proudest legacies is his daughter, Tracey Mayhan, who continues to carry forward his values and spirit. In the wake of his passing, Tracey has taken on the responsibility of organizing a fundraiser to honor his memory and support the family during this time of grief. It is a reflection of the deep bond they shared and the strength Christopher passed on to his family.

Those who knew Christopher describe him as a man of quiet dignity. He wasn’t one for grandstanding, but his actions spoke volumes. Whether helping a neighbor, sharing stories with family, or sitting quietly beside his wife in their garden, his presence offered comfort, stability, and warmth. He will be remembered for the kindness in his eyes, the wisdom in his words, and the love he so freely gave.

His passing is not only a profound loss to his family but also to the many lives he touched throughout his lifetime. The community mourns the absence of a man who lived with integrity and left the world a better place through his example.

As the family grieves, they are also reflecting on the legacy Christopher leaves behind—a legacy of love, perseverance, and unity. The fundraiser in his memory is more than just an act of support; it is a gesture of gratitude for a man who gave his all and asked for little in return.

Please consider supporting the Craig family during this difficult time, whether through a donation, a message of condolence, or simply keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.

Rest in peace, Christopher M. Craig. Your journey here may have ended, but your love and strength live on in those who were lucky enough to know you.

 

In the wake of devastating floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country, an update has emerged that is both profoundly heartbreaking and deeply inspiring. 8-year-old Renee Smajstrla, a joyful camper at Camp Mystic, has tragically been confirmed among those lost in the floodwaters.

Just a day before the disaster, Renee’s bright smile—captured in a photo now widely shared—radiated the pure joy of childhood, summer, and adventure. Her image has since touched hearts across the state and beyond. Now, the sorrow surrounding her loss is felt all the more deeply by those who knew her personally—and by a company many Texans hold dear.

A Personal Loss for the James Avery Family

It has been confirmed that Renee Smajstrla was part of the James Avery Jewelry family, a company beloved for its handcrafted charms and jewelry that celebrate faith, love, and heritage. Headquartered in Kerrville, Texas, the same region now reeling from flood devastation, the company has long been a fixture in the Hill Country community.

James Avery’s Chairman and CEO released a heartfelt statement acknowledging Renee’s passing, calling it a “deeply personal loss for all of us.” As both a family member and symbol of the community they cherish, Renee’s death has brought the tragedy painfully close to home.

Turning Grief Into Generosity

In Renee’s honor, James Avery Jewelry has announced a $1 million donation to aid in flood relief efforts throughout the affected areas of the Texas Hill Country. Additionally, the company has committed all proceeds from the sale of their iconic “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm to directly support families impacted by the floods.

“Renee was a child full of light and kindness. Her legacy will now live on in a way that brings comfort and support to others,” said the company in a public statement. “This is how she would want to be remembered—by helping.”

A Legacy That Shines

Renee was known by those around her for her compassion, her laughter, and her love of nature. She was the kind of child who lifted others simply by being herself—joyful, kind, and full of curiosity. Her death is an unspeakable loss to her family, friends, fellow campers, and the entire Hill Country community.

And yet, in the shadow of this sorrow, something beautiful has begun to grow: a legacy of love and aid that will continue to touch lives long after the floodwaters recede. Through the contributions made in her name, Renee’s spirit—so vibrant and giving—will live on, not just in memories, but in the healing that follows tragedy.

A Call to Remember and Support

We ask that you hold Renee Smajstrla’s family and all those grieving in the Texas Hill Country close in your thoughts and prayers. And if you’re looking for a way to honor Renee’s life and support flood relief, consider purchasing the “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm or donating directly to the organizations working to rebuild these beloved communities.

Renee may have only had eight years on this earth, but the impact of her light—and the love now given in her name—is boundless.

Rest in peace, sweet Renee. May your memory continue to shine, deep in the heart of Texas.

 

In an inspiring act of bravery that likely saved countless lives, Deacon Richard Pryor, the man who used his personal pickup truck to stop an active shooter outside his church last month, has now been honored with a brand-new Ford F-150.

A Split-Second Decision That Saved Lives

The terrifying event unfolded one Sunday morning when Deacon Pryor arrived late for church. As he pulled into the parking lot, he was met with chaos—a gunman was actively firing at the church entrance.

Without a second thought, Deacon Pryor acted decisively. He drove his pickup truck directly at the shooter, striking him and interrupting the attack, even as bullets pierced his own vehicle. His courageous move disrupted what authorities now say could have been a devastating mass shooting.

Meanwhile, a member of the church’s armed security team returned fire, striking the gunman and ending the threat. Together, their fast and fearless actions protected the lives of everyone inside.

Honoring a Local Hero

In the days that followed, Deacon Pryor’s truck, riddled with bullet holes, stood as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and courage. But now, thanks to the generosity of a local dealership and community supporters, Pryor has been gifted a brand-new Ford F-150 to replace the one he used to stop the shooter.

Grateful yet humble, Deacon Pryor remarked:

“I was just trying to protect my church family. I didn’t think about anything else.”

A Legacy of Courage

Though he insists he’s not a hero, the community—and the nation—sees him differently. His bold action, alongside the decisive response of the church security member, undoubtedly averted a tragedy and reminds us that heroes are often ordinary people put in extraordinary situations.

As the church continues to reflect and heal, Deacon Pryor’s story stands as a shining example of what it means to act with love, faith, and courage in the face of danger.

Let us celebrate his bravery and continue to lift up those who risk everything to protect others.

 

On Friday, July 11, 2025, at approximately 8:48 PM, officers with the Miner Police Department responded to a single-vehicle crash on North Interstate Drive, just north of U.S. Highway 62.Upon arrival, officers located the wrecked vehicle and identified the driver as Kinth R. Wilson, 52, of Sikeston/Louisiana. 

Mr. Wilson, the sole occupant and victim in the crash, showed clear signs of possible impairment, prompting officers to begin a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) investigation.

It was determined that Mr. Wilson’s vehicle had left the roadway and struck a large metal signpost. He provided a breath sample using a portable breath tester, which registered a breath alcohol content of 0.300—3.75 times the legal limit of 0.08. Additional evidence supported the finding of intoxication, and officers placed Mr. Wilson under arrest for DWI.

After being transported to the Miner Police Department for booking, Mr. Wilson attempted to escape custody by physically resisting and attempting to flee the facility. Officers quickly intervened and secured him without further incident. As a result, he was additionally charged with Attempted Escape from Custody and Property Damage in the Second Degree.

The charges were reviewed and filed by the Scott County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and a warrant was issued through the Scott County Circuit Court. Mr. Wilson was formally charged with:

• Driving While Intoxicated
• Attempted Escape from Custody
• Property Damage – Second Degree

A $7,500 cash-only bond was set, and Mr. Wilson was transferred to the Scott County Jail.

During the incident and throughout the booking process, Mr. Wilson maintained that he had done nothing wrong and alleged he was being targeted due to his ethnicity. As always, it is important to note that all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Miner Police Department continues to stress the dangers of impaired driving, reminding the public that alcohol-related crashes are a leading cause of death on American roads. They urge all drivers: Don’t drink and drive — plan ahead, stay safe, and protect lives.

 

Belleville, IL – July 13, 2025 – The Belleville Police Department is actively investigating a tragic shooting that resulted in the death of a 50-year-old man early Sunday morning.

At approximately 12:55 a.m. on July 13, 2025, officers were dispatched to the 500 block of North 40th Street following reports of a disturbance involving a person who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers discovered a male victim lying in the front yard of a residence, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Officers immediately began administering lifesaving aid and continued efforts until emergency medical services (EMS) arrived on scene. Despite those efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time pending official notification of next of kin.

Following the incident, Belleville Police Detectives along with members of the Crime Scene Unit arrived to secure and process the scene. One individual was located at the scene and taken into custody for questioning. That person is currently being held at the Belleville Police Department, and investigators are working to determine their involvement in the incident.

Authorities are urging members of the public who may have witnessed the disturbance or have any information related to the case to come forward. Community assistance may play a vital role in helping bring clarity and justice to this tragic event.

“This is a deeply unfortunate situation, and we extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim,” a spokesperson for the Belleville Police Department said in a brief statement. “Our detectives are working diligently to gather all available evidence, conduct interviews, and ensure a thorough investigation.”

At this time, no further details—including the name of the victim or the individual taken into custody—have been released, as the investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities plan to provide additional updates as soon as they are available.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Belleville Police Department at (618) 234-1212 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (866) 371-TIPS (8477).

The Belleville Police Department appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation during this difficult time.

 

It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Mrs. Venter, a treasured member of the Athlone Girls’ High School community. Her passing leaves behind a void that words can scarcely fill — a loss felt not just by her loved ones, but by generations of students, colleagues, and families whose lives she touched with grace, compassion, and quiet strength.

Mrs. Venter was more than just a teacher. She was a mentor, a listener, a leader, and for many, a second mother. Her classroom was a place of learning, yes — but also of encouragement, laughter, and growth. With a firm yet nurturing hand, she helped young women find their voices, build their confidence, and believe in their potential. Her legacy lives not only in lesson plans or school traditions, but in the thousands of hearts she helped shape over the years.

Whether she was greeting students at the start of the day, staying late to help with exams, or guiding new teachers with patience and wisdom, Mrs. Venter embodied the spirit of service and integrity. Her dedication to education was matched only by her deep care for the emotional and personal well-being of those around her.

Her loss is being deeply mourned throughout the school and greater community. The hallways of Athlone Girls’ High School feel quieter without her presence, and yet her influence remains woven into every corner of the school she served so faithfully. Her kindness, her high standards, and her belief in the power of education will remain an enduring part of the school’s story.

As we come to terms with this painful loss, we ask you to keep her family, friends, and the entire school community in your thoughts and prayers. May we all find comfort in knowing that Mrs. Venter’s beautiful soul is now at peace, and that her memory will continue to live on in the lessons she taught and the love she gave so freely.

Rest in peace, dear Mrs. Venter. Your light will never be forgotten.

To teach is to touch a life forever.

 

North Texas — July 2025 – Just 8 years old, full of laughter, energy, and endless curiosity, Hadley Hanna was preparing to start third grade in her North Texas school this fall. She loved nature walks, doodling in journals, making up songs on the spot, and brightening every room she walked into. But her young life was tragically cut short in the Hill Country floods, a natural disaster that turned moments of summer fun into unimaginable sorrow.

The weight of this loss is immeasurable.

To her family, Hadley wasn’t just a daughter or a sister — she was the heartbeat of their home. To her teachers and classmates, she was the student who asked thoughtful questions and cheered others on. To her community, she was a little girl with a giant presence. She had the kind of smile that made strangers smile back. Her joy was infectious. Her light — undeniable.

And now, as grief ripples through everyone who loved her, that same community is rallying to ensure that Hadley’s light doesn’t fade — it shines on, forever.

Introducing: The Hadley Hanna Legacy Fund

Out of this heartbreak, Hadley’s loved ones have created something deeply meaningful: The Hadley Hanna Legacy Fund — a living tribute to the joy, wonder, and imagination she so freely shared in her short time on Earth.

The mission of the fund is simple yet powerful:

To carry forward the spirit of Hadley Hanna in ways that bring light to others.

The fund will support:

• Scholarships for students who embody Hadley’s curiosity and compassion.
•  Joyful community projects that celebrate creativity and imagination.
•  Initiatives that promote kindness, learning, and love — all the things Hadley stood for without ever needing to be taught.

Her family and community want the world to remember her not just for how she was lost, but for how she lived — beautifully, generously, and joyfully.

How You Can Help

You can honor Hadley’s memory by supporting or sharing the Hadley Hanna Legacy Fund. Every share, every contribution, and every heartfelt message helps keep her story alive. It also gives her grieving family a sense of connection, hope, and purpose in a time when the pain can feel overwhelming.

Please consider sending your condolences, lifting the Hanna family in prayer, and sharing this link so others can help keep Hadley’s spark alive.

Hadley once said she wanted to “make the world brighter with her ideas.”

Through this fund — and through the love of so many — she still will.

Rest peacefully, sweet Hadley. Your story isn’t over.

It’s only just beginning again — in the hearts of all who carry your light.

 

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt reverence that we share the news of the passing of Dave Cousins, the founding member and long-serving frontman of the legendary folk-progressive band Strawbs. Dave passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the Pilgrims Hospice in Canterbury, following a long illness. He was 85 years old.

Born David Joseph Cousins in 1940, Dave’s name became synonymous with musical innovation and poetic depth. In 1964, he founded The Strawberry Hill Boys, a group that would later evolve into Strawbs, a band that would go on to leave a profound mark on both folk and progressive rock. Over the decades, Strawbs became a cornerstone of British music history, bridging acoustic traditions with experimental soundscapes, and influencing generations of artists across genres.

As a songwriter, Dave Cousins was revered for his introspective lyrics and emotionally rich storytelling. His songs—infused with elements of folklore, social commentary, and spirituality—resonated deeply with listeners around the world. His voice, both commanding and vulnerable, gave the Strawbs their distinctive, enduring sound.

Beyond the stage and studio, Dave was also a pioneer in UK radio broadcasting. In 1980, he served as Programme Controller for DevonAir, an independent local radio station that quickly earned a reputation for thoughtful programming and community connection. His contributions to broadcasting reflected the same authenticity and integrity that defined his music career.

A statement shared today on his official Facebook page reads:

“DAVID JOSEPH COUSINS 1940–2025

It is with profound sadness that we have to announce the passing of David Joseph Cousins at the Pilgrims Hospice in Canterbury, peacefully following a long illness, today, Sunday 13 July 2025.”

The loss of Dave Cousins is felt deeply not only by his family and close friends, but also by countless fans, collaborators, and fellow musicians across the globe. His artistic legacy—marked by fearless creativity, lyrical brilliance, and a refusal to conform—will continue to echo through the halls of music history.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life devoted to art, truth, and connection. Few artists have so seamlessly woven together the threads of tradition and progress, personal reflection and universal themes, the spoken word and the sung truth.

To those who knew him, performed with him, or were moved by his words: take a moment today to play your favorite Strawbs record, remember the beauty Dave Cousins brought into the world, and honor the man who helped shape the soundtracks of our lives.

Rest peacefully, Dave. Your voice may be silent, but your music will forever sing.