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GRIFFITH, Ind. — Emerald “Emmy” Miller, a student at Griffith High School, has died, leaving her family, friends, and classmates grieving the loss of a young life remembered for its kindness and promise.

Those who knew Emerald described her as gentle, compassionate, and deeply empathetic toward others. Friends and classmates recalled her warm smile and quiet strength, noting the positive impression she left on those around her at school.

In the wake of her death, the Griffith community has been grappling not only with grief, but also with renewed concerns surrounding student safety and bullying in schools. A parent of another student has come forward publicly, alleging that repeated reports of bullying involving multiple students were not adequately addressed by school administrators.

According to the parent’s statement, Emerald was among several students who experienced ongoing bullying, raising difficult questions about whether stronger intervention could have prevented further harm. While the allegations have not been independently verified, they have sparked widespread discussion among parents, educators, and advocates.

Community members and child welfare advocates say the situation highlights a broader and ongoing issue: the need for schools to take all reports of bullying seriously and respond promptly and effectively. They stress that the emotional impact of bullying on students can be severe and long-lasting.

As the community mourns Emerald’s passing, calls for accountability, awareness, and meaningful change have grown louder. Vigils, memorial messages, and tributes continue to appear, honoring Emerald’s memory and the life many say was cut tragically short.

Emerald Miller’s death has left a lasting impact on Griffith. Her story has become a somber reminder of the shared responsibility among schools, families, and communities to listen to students, protect their well-being, and ensure no child feels unheard or alone.

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — Ali Jasim, a Rock Island firefighter and well-known member of the Quad Cities community, has died following a tragic incident at the Interstate 74 Bridge, authorities confirmed.

Jasim’s death has sent shockwaves through the region, leaving family members, friends, fellow firefighters, and residents mourning the loss of a public servant recognized for his dedication to protecting others. He was widely regarded for his professionalism, bravery, and steadfast commitment to public safety.

During his time with the Rock Island Fire Department, Jasim was known for responding to emergencies with compassion and resolve, consistently placing the safety of others first. Fellow firefighters described him as reliable and steady in high-pressure situations, someone they trusted both on the scene and in daily operations.

Outside of his professional role, Jasim was remembered for his kindness and humility. Those who knew him said he was approachable, deeply committed to his community, and always willing to support others. Friends and colleagues noted his ability to unite people and his genuine concern for those around him.

His passing has had a profound impact across the Quad Cities, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fire departments, community leaders, and residents honoring his service and sacrifice.

As the community continues to grieve, Ali Jasim is being remembered not only as a firefighter, but as a devoted son, a loyal friend, and a hero whose life reflected selflessness and service. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the dedication he showed in serving his community.

ESOPUS — A Port Ewen woman was killed Wednesday morning in a head-on collision on U.S. Route 9W, according to New York State Police.

The victim was identified as Jennifer L. Burke, 63, of Port Ewen. Police said Burke was traveling northbound shortly after 6 a.m. in a Smart car when, for reasons still under investigation, her vehicle crossed into the southbound lane and collided with a Volkswagen Tiguan driven by a 49-year-old man from West Park.

Burke was ejected from her vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene, state police said.

The other driver, whose name has not been released, was trapped inside his vehicle and had to be extricated through a side window by emergency responders, according to the Esopus Fire Department. He was transported by the New Paltz Rescue Squad to Vassar Brothers Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

Multiple agencies responded to the crash, including New York State Police, the Esopus Fire Department, Esopus Ambulance Squad, Empress EMS, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Town of Lloyd Police Department. When responders arrived, both vehicles were found off the roadway on opposite sides of Route 9W.

Route 9W remained closed for more than four hours while authorities investigated the crash and cleared the scene.

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact the State Police Highland Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 845-344-5300.

With deep sadness, we honor the memory of Jonah Shimanoff, a treasured student at Columbia High School and a beloved member of the Maplewood, New Jersey community. Jonah’s sudden passing has left a profound emptiness in the lives of his family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all who knew him. Although his time was far too short, the kindness, warmth, and happiness he shared continue to echo, leaving behind a meaningful legacy of love and inspiration.

Jonah was recognized for his bright personality, natural curiosity, and sincere compassion for others. As a student, he embraced learning with energy and purpose, always striving to grow while encouraging those around him to do the same. Teachers and peers admired his commitment, his considerate nature, and his readiness to support others through both actions and words. At Columbia High School, Jonah was more than a student—he was a loyal friend, a source of encouragement, and a positive presence in the lives of many.

Outside the classroom, Jonah’s generosity of spirit reached far into his community and friendships. He had a rare gift for making people feel noticed and appreciated, whether through thoughtful gestures, meaningful conversations, or his ever-present smile. Friends remember his humor, authenticity, and the light he brought into every space. His impact is reflected in the countless memories he created and the lives he touched.

Family was central to Jonah’s life, and he deeply valued the time he spent with those closest to him. He shared in their happiness, stood by them through challenges, and formed bonds rooted in love and trust that will never fade. While his family grieves this immense loss, they can find comfort in knowing that Jonah’s life was rich in purpose, connection, and love.

As we grieve Jonah Shimanoff’s passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary young person he was—someone whose life was defined by compassion, kindness, and a quiet yet powerful influence on others. His memory reminds us of the importance of empathy, human connection, and the lasting impact even a short life can have on a community.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jonah’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers. May you find strength in the love he gave, the joy he shared, and the many ways he enriched your lives. Though he is no longer with us in body, Jonah Shimanoff’s spirit will live on in our hearts, inspiring us to carry forward the kindness, warmth, and care he showed every day.

In loving remembrance of Jonah Shimanoff, we honor a life that, though far too brief, left a lasting imprint of love, compassion, and joy. He will always be remembered, deeply cherished, and dearly missed.

The Wyomissing, Pennsylvania community is grieving the loss of Dr. Corey Jones, a highly regarded school principal whose passing has deeply affected students, families, and educators. As principal of Wyomissing Area Junior/Senior High School, Dr. Jones was known for his unwavering dedication to education, his sincere concern for students, and the positive energy he brought to the school each day.

Throughout his career, Dr. Jones was committed to helping students thrive. His leadership helped cultivate a school culture centered on respect, motivation, and continual improvement. He firmly believed in the potential of every student and worked diligently to ensure the school supported both academic success and personal growth. Faculty and staff remember him as a caring, approachable leader who listened attentively and led by example.

For students, Dr. Jones was far more than an administrator. He was a familiar and trusted presence who made genuine connections, recognized their accomplishments, understood their struggles, and consistently offered encouragement—whether in the hallways or at school events.

Colleagues recall Dr. Jones as a leader guided by compassion, integrity, and empathy. He emphasized collaboration and prioritized the well-being of both students and staff. His leadership fostered a close-knit and supportive school environment, making his passing especially difficult for those who worked alongside him.

Outside the school, Dr. Jones was a respected and engaged member of the Wyomissing community. He was widely appreciated for his commitment to education and for building strong relationships with families and community partners.

Though his life ended too soon, Dr. Corey Jones’ impact lives on through the countless students he mentored and the educators he inspired. He will be remembered for his kindness, leadership, and enduring belief in education’s power to transform lives.

He leaves behind a legacy of admiration, gratitude, and respect that will be treasured by all who knew him.