News
Flames Erupt from Car in Seekonk Walmart Parking Lot; Owner Homeless
2024-12-05
SEEKONK, Massachusetts witnessed a terrifying sight on Thursday night as massive flames emerged from a vehicle parked outside the Walmart. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m., and firefighters were immediately called to battle the intense blaze shooting from the car in the parking lot. The owner of the vehicle, who is homeless and was sleeping in the car with her cats, woke up to the thick smoke and quickly evacuated with her furry companions. Thankfully, no one was injured in this harrowing event. NBC 10 has been actively seeking more information to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.

In Seekonk, a Car's Nightmare Turned into a Firefighter's Battle

Details of the Incident

The sight of those massive flames coming from the car was truly a sight to behold. It was a clear indication of the intensity of the fire that engulfed the vehicle. The firefighters worked tirelessly to contain and extinguish the flames, facing the challenges posed by the heat and the difficult conditions in the parking lot. Their efforts were crucial in preventing the fire from spreading to other nearby areas and potentially causing more damage.

The owner's story added a human element to the incident. Being homeless and having to sleep in the car with her cats made the situation even more challenging. Her quick response in leaving with her pets showed her concern for their well-being. It also highlighted the importance of having a safe place to sleep and the difficulties faced by those without one.

Impact on the Community

The incident at the Walmart in Seekonk had a significant impact on the local community. People were shocked and concerned to see the flames and the commotion. The presence of firefighters and the police added to the sense of urgency and safety. It also served as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant and prepared in case of such emergencies.

The community came together in support of the owner and the firefighters. Neighbors offered assistance and comfort, while the firefighters received praise for their quick response and professionalism. This incident brought people closer together and showed the strength and unity of the community in the face of adversity.

Lessons Learned

This incident serves as a valuable lesson for everyone. It emphasizes the need for proper safety measures and precautions, especially for those who are homeless or living in vehicles. Having a fire extinguisher and knowing how to use it can make a significant difference in such situations. It also highlights the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and taking immediate action in case of a fire.

For the community as a whole, it is a reminder to be prepared for emergencies and to have a plan in place. This could include having emergency contacts, knowing the location of fire stations and evacuation routes, and being familiar with the safety procedures in public places like Walmart. By being proactive and prepared, we can better protect ourselves and our communities from such tragedies.

California to Ban "Sell by" Food Labels from July 2026
2024-12-06
SANTA MONICA, Calif. — A significant change is set to take place in California as of July 1, 2026. The state will be implementing a ban on "sell by" food labels. This new law comes with specific limitations, allowing only two options for most food labels: "best if used by" and "use by". Bob’s Market in Santa Monica has stepped forward to clarify the meaning of the "sell by" date and its potential impact on their business operations. The U.S. Public Interest Research Group emphasizes that this new law holds great promise in reducing food waste, helping shoppers save money, and resolving the confusion often associated with food labels. It's important to note that, with the exception of infant formula and eggs that fall under USDA regulations, date labels on food packages are not federally mandated.

Impact on Shoppers and Businesses

The ban on "sell by" labels is expected to have a profound impact on both shoppers and businesses. Shoppers will no longer be confused by multiple date labels, making it easier for them to make informed decisions about the freshness of the food they purchase. This, in turn, can lead to savings as they won't have to discard food prematurely. For businesses like Bob’s Market, it means having to adapt their inventory management systems and communicate clearly with customers about the new labeling requirements. They will need to ensure that their staff is well-informed about the differences between "best if used by" and "use by" dates and how to handle products approaching their expiration dates.

Moreover, this change aligns with the growing awareness of food waste and the need to be more sustainable. By reducing the confusion surrounding food labels, more food is likely to be consumed before it goes to waste, benefiting both the environment and consumers' wallets.

Regulatory Exemptions and Considerations

While the ban on "sell by" labels is a significant step forward, it's important to note the regulatory exemptions. Infant formula and eggs that pass through the USDA are not affected by this new law. This is a crucial consideration as these are essential food items with specific handling and storage requirements. Businesses need to be aware of these exemptions and ensure that they are following the appropriate regulations for these products.

In addition, the transition to the new labeling system may pose some challenges for both manufacturers and retailers. There may be a need for additional training and education to ensure that everyone understands the implications of the law and can comply with it effectively. However, with proper planning and communication, these challenges can be overcome, and the benefits of the new law can be realized.

Consumer Awareness and Education

Consumer awareness and education will play a vital role in the successful implementation of this new law. Shoppers need to understand the differences between "best if used by" and "use by" dates and how to use this information to make the most of their purchases. Businesses have a responsibility to educate their customers about these changes and provide clear guidance on how to handle and store food products.

Through various marketing and educational initiatives, consumers can be made aware of the benefits of the new labeling system and how it can help them reduce food waste and save money. This can include in-store signage, online resources, and customer service training. By working together, consumers and businesses can ensure that the new law is a success and that everyone benefits from the reduced confusion and waste associated with food labels.

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Annual Kinston Food Drive Gets 33,000-Pound Piggly Wiggly Donation
2024-12-05
Our annual Share Your Christmas food drive took an exciting turn on Thursday in Kinston. It received a remarkable boost as Piggly Wiggly and its vendors selflessly donated an astonishing 33,000 pounds of food. This drive, which is set to conclude on Friday, remains open and warmly welcomes contributions from the entire community.

Join the Christmas Food Drive and Make a Difference

Resident Meredith Craig's Consistent Donation

Meredith Craig, a resident of Lenoir County, has been a steadfast donor since the very beginning of this food drive. Her words carry a profound message: "Everyone is just one paycheck away from needing these essential services. We've witnessed job losses and transfers, and it could easily be us next week. So, with that in mind, it's a small act of giving back to someone else that can make a big impact."

The Final Day of the Food Drive

The final day of this heartwarming food drive will be held at the Piggly Wiggly in New Bern. Here, donations will be graciously accepted. This is a crucial moment as the community comes together one last time to make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. It's a time to show compassion and solidarity during the Christmas season.

The Impact of the Donation

The donation of 33,000 pounds of food by Piggly Wiggly and its vendors is truly remarkable. It not only provides immediate relief to those facing food shortages but also serves as a reminder of the power of community support. This act of generosity will have a lasting impact on the lives of many families, helping them get through the holiday season with a little more hope and nourishment. It shows that even in difficult times, there are those who are willing to step forward and make a difference.
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