'Star Wars' fan recreates movie props as a passion

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

'Star Wars' fan recreates movie props as a passion LOVELAND, Colo. (KDVR) — Long ago, in a land far away — California — one of the most successful movie franchises in U.S. history was born. Episode 4 of the "Star Wars" trilogy played 46 years ago this month to packed theaters across America.In another land, just north of Denver — Loveland — a dedicated "Star Wars" fan turned his passion into a full-time job.To say Cal Pierce is a fan of "Star Wars" would be an understatement. "As a kid, it was an escape. You know, a place for fantasy to go join Luke Skywalker on his adventures," Pierce said. The 4th is strong at these free ‘Star Wars’ events around Denver That is why Pierce created Far Away Creations in 2005. "I had experience in working on the film 'Fanboys.' I got to be there for a weekend and help with the theoretical George Lucas prop room and supply pieces for that," Pierce said.'Star Wars' gear created to exact specsHeadgear, uniforms, equipment — all lovingly made to the exact specifications as the originals.The Pierce fami...

Outdoor Colorado: Remote-control 4x4s are big fun

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

Outdoor Colorado: Remote-control 4x4s are big fun BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR) — Remote-controlled trucks, RCs for short, have been increasingly popular with hobbyists and fans of four-wheel drive vehicles. Unlike the real thing, an operator can execute daring moves in these vehicles and not get hurt.For more than 20 years, Vinny Indolini has been racing RC cars. His favorite place to race is the Colorado outdoors. United plans to hire 15,000, including 2,300 in Denver "The appeal of it is that you’re out here in Mother Nature, which is really nice like today. It’s a gorgeous day. We get a little cloud cover from time to time, but that means you’re not baking all day long," Indolini said.Indolini said his favorite person to do this with is his wife, Stacee, who never raced RCs before they met."We had just started dating and he asked me to come out to Wheel Park with him, and I used his Rustler to bash with," she said. “After that, I was like, ‘OK, I can’t get into this.'"These four-wheel-drive remote-control trucks are agile, and portab...

‘Real Housewives of Miami’ stars hit FLA Arena court for star-studded Wooshi World Celebrity Basketball Classic

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

‘Real Housewives of Miami’ stars hit FLA Arena court for star-studded Wooshi World Celebrity Basketball Classic Miami Race Week is here, and there are celebrity sightings all around town. The FLA Arena in Sunrise was packed with stars last night for Wooshi World Celebrity Basketball Classic, and they put on a slam-dunk show.Johnny G: “Wooshi is a digital influencer. Miami needed Wooshi to bring out some positive energy, and last night we launched him. Wow, was it on fire last night.”The first-ever “Wooshi World Celebrity Basketball Classic” brought out two star-studded teams, and they both showed off some game moves.Larsa Pippen was there and hit the red carpet.Larsa Pippen: I feel great. I feel like I’m super excited. I’m really looking forward to see my girlfriends play basketball.”And her co-stars from “The Real Housewives of Miami” also came game ready.Alexia Echevarria: “I have my Jordans on. I came to play”Guerdy Abraira: “I just came to slay.”Marysol Patton: “I’ve never been, I mean have you ever ...

One More Dry Day

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

One More Dry Day One more dry day before showers and storms return for the weekend.Its been absolutely gorgeous thanks to a weak front that moved in unnoticed last to reinforce the dry, hot and low humidity across South Florida. However, nice changes like this one will come to an end soon. This is due to the return of an ocean breeze starting Friday, so minor changes happen throughout the day. Friday will feature sunny skies, highs in the upper 80’s and dry conditions.This weekend the chance for rain will go up to a 30% on Saturday and 40% on Sunday and more moisture will be available for activity to develop. Also, rip current risk is increasing this weekend along the East coast.Have a wonderful evening South Florida and make it a safe one! Vivian GonzalezMeteorologist, AMS Certified WSVN Channel 7

US Education Secretary Cardona takes part in roundtable discussion in Miami Gardens

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

US Education Secretary Cardona takes part in roundtable discussion in Miami Gardens U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona praised efforts in South Florida to help students during a local stop.Cardona on Thursday visited William Turner Technical Arts High School and Skyway Elementary in Miami Gardens.He was accompanied by U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Fla., and Miami-Dade County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jose Dotres.They also participated in a roundtable discussion about a number of topics in education.“I’m just proud to see the great work that’s happening here, in Miami-Dade and in Florida, supporting students and wrapping their arms around students,” he said, “not only in the mentorship program, which is amazing — I’d like to thank the congresswoman for that — but also, in the program I saw at the high school, at Turner Tech, where students have career options.”Cardona was also named an honorary member of the 5000 Role Models mentoring program.

Buckle up for Racing Fan Fest at Wynwood Markeplace as Formula 1 racing returns to South Florida

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

Buckle up for Racing Fan Fest at Wynwood Markeplace as Formula 1 racing returns to South Florida Buckle up because Formula 1 weekend is upon us. If you weren’t able to get tickets or just want to have little extra boost of fun, then better make your way to Racing Fan Fest at Wynwood Marketplace where you can watch the race and fuel up on a good time with the family. Formula One racing is back in the 305. But if you can’t make it to the Miami Grand Prix, you can fuel up on all the fun at Racing Fan Fest.Sarah Porter: “Racing Fan Fest is the biggest off the track racing event in Miami that celebrates all thing fast, fun, and racing.”This year, they’re bringing back the Red Bull Fan Zone.Sarah Porter: “You can engage in the pitstop challenge with your friends and view all the Red Bull memorabilia and racing artifacts.”Got a need for speed? Then get behind the wheel and see if you can cut is as a race car driver.Sarah Porter: “We have racing simulators on site, which are going to be fun for all ages, and get ready to race all your fri...

Emergency crews locate body of worker killed in explosion at Newburyport chemical plant

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

Emergency crews locate body of worker killed in explosion at Newburyport chemical plant One person was killed and several others were injured when a massive explosion tore through a chemical plant in Newburyport early Thursday morning, fire officials said.As an investigation continues, the family of the person who was killed is mourning and public officials have spoken out, noting a series of past safety incidents at the same facility. Firefighters from multiple communities responded to what grew to be a seven-alarm fire Thursday, after multiple reports of an explosion just before 1 a.m.Crews said an industrial-sized vat from inside the building was launched 30 feet because of the explosion and was found in the parking lot as crews arrived.Officials said four injured workers were taken to the hospital, where they were treated and released. One remained missing.In an update, officials said they located the missing worker’s body around 5:30 p.m.Surveillance video from nearby cameras captured the explosion, showing a massive, bright fireball that launched flames and...

Chicago White Sox miss some prime opportunities — going 1-for-16 with RISP — in a 7-3, 12-inning loss to the Minnesota Twins

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

Chicago White Sox miss some prime opportunities — going 1-for-16 with RISP — in a 7-3, 12-inning loss to the Minnesota Twins Chicago White Sox third baseman Hanser Alberto got hit by a pitch on the right arm on a 1-2 count with the bases loaded in the 10th inning against the Minnesota Twins.But instead of the Sox celebrating a walk-off victory, the inning continued as umpires ruled Alberto swung and thus struck out.“Bro, I didn’t mean to swing,” Alberto said. “I knew it was a fastball (coming from reliever Brock Stewart) because after two sliders I said, ‘OK, maybe (a) fastball’s coming’ and I was ready. I meant to get away but I didn’t know how to get away. The ball got right on me. But it’s part of the game. It’s tough.“(The swing) was a reflex. (It) should be a hit by a pitch and win the ballgame right there. But it’s going to happen and it is what it is.”The Sox had ample opportunities to complete a three-game sweep Thursday. Instead, the Twins finally broke through with five runs in the 12th to take the finale of the three-...

Officials: Man killed 3, then self in rural Georgia town

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

Officials: Man killed 3, then self in rural Georgia town By JEFF AMY and RUSS BYNUM (Associated Press)A man recorded by a security camera fatally shooting his manager Thursday at a fast food restaurant in rural south Georgia is also suspected of killing his mother and grandmother at their nearby homes before taking his own life, authorities said.Security video from a McDonald’s in Moultrie showed 26-year-old Kentavious White shoot the store manager after getting her to come to the door Thursday morning, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said. The footage then showed White step inside the restaurant and shoot himself.Police found the manager, identified as 41-year-old Amia Smith, and White both dead when they arrived, the GBI said in a news release Thursday evening. They also found two women related to White had been shot at neighboring homes less than 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) away. Both women died — one after being taken to a hospital, the GBI said. All three of the slain women appeared to have been shot multiple times, Colq...

BC High knocks off No. 1 St. John’s Prep in a Catholic boys lacrosse showdown

Published Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:14:41 GMT

BC High knocks off No. 1 St. John’s Prep in a Catholic boys lacrosse showdown DANVERS — For most, Thursday night’s matchup between BC High and St. John’s Prep was a litmus test. A temperature check as to which school might boast the top boys lacrosse team in Massachusetts.When all was said and done, BC High was able to snap a recent losing skid against one of its premier rivals. Patrick Maroney, Shane McDonnell and Nolan Hurley each registered a hat trick, as the Eagles defeated their Catholic Conference foes with an impressive 14-9 showing on the road.“I think it started from the beginning,” McDonnell said. “We got on them early. Whole team was going. Defense, middies, wings, attack, goalie most of all. I think we were just dominating from the beginning, and I’m very proud of this team.”It was the first victory over St. John’s Prep in seven tries for BC High, dating back to 2021. This included two losses in the Div. 1 state championship each of the previous two seasons.To the surprise of few, BC High came out of the gate looking to assert itself, as Cooper C...