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Community Corner

🌱 ACORNS Unit Gets $800k Boost + RFD Feels Some Staffing Relief

The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in Raleigh.

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Christina Fullford, Neighbor
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(Patch Media)

Happy National Popcorn Day Raleigh!

Before I get into the most up-to-date news, I want to share a really incredible development. Hedingham survivor, Marcelle "Lynn" Gardner was released from the hospital after nearly 100 days. The update was provided via the GoFundMe page set up following the mass shooting. Lynn will continue with physical and occupational therapy, but from the comfort of her home. Now that we've gotten to celebrate a little bit, get caught up on everything else, including:

  • Raleigh lands the most popular esport's tournament.
  • Here's a chance to unwind with some cornhole.
  • Wake County SPCA celebrates Ronald's adoption.

But first, today's weather:

A shower; breezy in the p.m.. High: 68 Low: 44.

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Here are the top six stories today in Raleigh:

  1. During Tuesday's city council meeting, Raleigh Police Chief Estella Patterson gave an update on the ACORNS unit. ACORNS stands for Addressing Crises through Outreach, Referrals, Networking and Service. The unit will be getting an $800,000 boost to expand reach. The unit was formed in June to connect with people in crisis, but it currently does not respond to any 911 calls. Currently the unit responds to referrals for service, with the top request being for follow-up investigations after an overdose or mental health crisis. (abc11, CBS17, WRAL)
  2. The mother and a friend of the man who died in police custody have identified him. Darryl Williams' mother confirmed that her son was killed on Tuesday morning. Sonya said that her son was a fun-going person who was loved by everyone. She says that she deserves an explanation from police about what happened. Sonya says that the lack of transparency from the Raleigh Police Department is what is making her the most upset. Williams' friend also confirmed his identity, and said that "I'm definitely going to be nervous when I get pulled over by the police again." An official cause of death has not been released in the case. (abc11)
  3. Raleigh is set to host the Spring Finals for Riot Games' League Championship Series (LCS). The tournament for League of Legends will be played at PNC Arena in April. League of Legends is considered to be the world's most popular esport. Raleigh has established itself as an international hub for esports and gaming. (CBS17)
  4. The Raleigh Fire Department is beginning to feel some relief after the newest class of recruits has brought the staffing numbers up. The department had 74 new firefighters join the service in 2022. Ian Toms, the assistant chief of professional development for the Raleigh Fire Department says that there have been occasions where they had to put engines out of service due to the lack of staffing. A truck must have a minimum of three individuals on it in order for it to operate, and the recent graduation has put them in a much better position going forward. (Spectrum News 1)
  5. The Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina is working to reach more people through pop-up food distribution markets. The efforts are coming at a time when inflation is tightening household budgets. The Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina will hold several pop-up food distribution markets in January. Most of the food that the food bank sends out goes to partner agencies, but the pop-up markets directly distribute food to residents. (abc11)
  6. Construction cranes are present throughout downtown, as the city's development shows no sign of slowing down. The Downtown Raleigh Alliance's fourth quarter report for 2022 lists 16 more development projects under construction. They say that more than 40 projects are planned, proposed or are in site preparation. Downtown living remains in high demand as DRA's report shows occupancy at close to 95%. (CBS17)

Today in Raleigh:

Friday in Raleigh:

From my notebook:

  • It's National Popcorn Day and Carolina Popcorn Shoppe Raleigh's very own local popcorn artisan.
  • The Wake County SPCA shared an uplifting story of pup Ronald, who has finally found his forever home after 14 failed adoptions. (US Times Post)
  • Goodnights Comedy Club is set to open its new, permanent location on Wednesday. (WRAL)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday off right! I'll be in your inbox tomorrow morning with another update.

— CJ Fullford

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Raleigh Daily? Contact me at raleigh@patch.com

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