American Scene: State to mull NYC-wide ideas for center, casino

VACAVILLE — A convicted killer has died in a California prison hours before he was to be freed to spend his final days with his family.

Carl Wade was recommended for compassionate release under a state law for inmates whose death is imminent and who pose no danger to the public. He was terminally ill with heart and lung diseases.

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that a Lake County judge blocked the 66-year-old’s release, but an appeals court overruled the judge on May 17.

The court ordered Wade’s prompt release to live with his family in Chico. The ruling became final last week, but Wade died Thursday in the Vacaville prison.

He had been serving a 32-years-to-life sentence for fatally shooting a man in Lake County in June 1986.

NEW MEXICO

Thousands bid farewell to boxing champ Tapia

ALBUQUERQUE — Thousands turned out in Albuquerque to bid a final farewell to five-time world boxing champion Johnny Tapia.

Fans shared their memories Sunday night about the fighter, who died May 27 at his Albuquerque home at age 45.

The boxer had long endured public struggles with cocaine addiction and depression, but he remained a hero to many New Mexico boxing fans.

FLORIDA

New rules mulled for band after drum major’s death

TALLAHASSEE — The head of Florida A&M University wants to limit the marching band to full-time students at the university and toughen academic requirements for joining, after a drum major’s beating death in November.

Among other proposed changes, FAMU President James Ammons said Monday he also wants to impose a four-year limit on how long students can play in the famed band.

Mr. Ammons suspended the band shortly after Robert Champion’s death. Eleven FAMU band members face felony hazing charges, while two others face misdemeanor counts for alleged roles in Champion’s death.

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