Latest news briefs include a $10,000 check being awarded to a local teacher, Metro Fire responding to a “strange odor” at the Citrus Heights police station, results from a Sept. 16 DUI checkpoint on Sunrise Boulevard, and a new music center opening its doors on Madison Avenue.
Metro Fire, PG&E respond to ‘strange odor’ at police department
A report of a “strange odor” at the Citrus Heights Police Department on Wednesday led to several fire engines, an ambulance, and a battalion chief being dispatched to the police station on Fountain Square Dr. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. on Sept. 14, resulting from an employee who “thought she smelled a strange odor,” according to Sgt. Jason Baldwin. He said both PG&E and Metro Fire responded as a standard procedure, but “nothing was detected.”
Local KinderCare teacher receives $10,000 award
A local teacher at San Juan KinderCare in Citrus Heights was surprised with a $10,000 check at her workplace on Thursday, with notable attendees including the mayor and Assemblyman Ken Cooley. Teacher Quiana Smith was given the “Early Childhood Education Award,” which is awarded annually to exemplary teachers at various KinderCare centers. Mayor Jeannie Bruins called Smith an “incredible and dedicated teacher” and said Citrus Heights is fortunate to have her. KinderCare is located at 5448 San Juan Ave. in Citrus Heights and is one of many private KinderCare centers around the nation, providing early childhood education and care. (See Smith’s bio)
Three arrested in weekend DUI checkpoint
A DUI and drivers license checkpoint held on Sunrise Boulevard near Oak Avenue Friday night stopped a total of 951 vehicles and led to three DUI arrests, Citrus Heights police reported. According to an “after-action” report provided to The Sentinel, the six-hour checkpoint operation also resulted in six vehicles being impounded and 13 citations issued for a variety of violations, including driving without a license or a suspended license. The checkpoint was funded by a grant through the California Office of Traffic Safety. (Read more)
New music school opens in Citrus Heights
The Lafitte Music Center is now open on Madison Avenue in Citrus Heights, after officially opening its doors for the first time last month and holding a grand opening celebration earlier this month. The music school is owned by Jordane Lafitte, who is also a co-owner of “The Lil’ School,” a preschool and childcare center next door. The new music center is located on the outskirts of Citrus Heights at 8089 Madison Ave., near Fair Oaks Boulevard. (See website)
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