Meet Jeff Ferguson.
Just an average guy, a doctor by trade. Who at least 50 people in Colorado Springs may owe their lives to.
We sort of think you're an everyday American hero, doc. So glad you were there.
via Grand Junction Daily Sentinel AP:
"COLORADO SPRINGS — A Colorado doctor with a concealed-weapon permit said he grabbed his gun and guarded an exit at a medical building as dozens of people fled from a gunman who had taken two hostages.
Authorities in Colorado Springs said the hostages were released before police shot and fatally wounded the gunman Tuesday. No one else was hurt.
Police identified the gunman as Dominic Oliver, 28, of Colorado Springs.
A doctor at the practice, Jeff Ferguson, told KKTV he retrieved his gun from its storage place and protected an exit as an estimated 50 people fled down a stairway.
“If this guy opens this door, I’m going to have to shoot him,” Ferguson said. “I was absolutely prepared to shoot him, yes.”..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 29, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Red State "Deja Vu All Over Again "
Erick Erickson:
"I have, for the longest time, been convinced that the Republican candidates have a very slim chance of beating Barack Obama without a struggling economy. And while I still think it is true, I think the Democrats have handed the GOP a gift that could be turned into victory if the GOP plays its cards well.
We are entering deja vu all over again.
On September 12, 2009, Janet Hook wrote in the Los Angeles Times that “[s]ome Republicans worry that the healthcare debate is reinforcing an unflattering image of them as the ‘Party of No.’” Bob Inglis (R-SC), who would go down to defeat in a primary at the hands of the tea party in 2010, gave voice to many
Republican leaders at the time when he said, “People are upset, but they expect leaders to remain calm and find solutions. . . . If you don’t have a plan about how to lead, why would anyone give you the majority?”
By the end of the year it was taken as objective fact. Being the “Party of No” would kill the GOP in 2010.
On television objective analysts, Democratic partisans, reporters, and “Republican leaders on background” all spoke of pending disaster for a Republican Party that refused to work with Barack Obama and said “no” to everything.
On February 15, 2010, Chris Cillizza in the Washington Post wrote of Fred Malek, an aide to President Nixon and big Republican donor starting a group called “American Action.” In an interview with the Washington Post, Malek openly fretted, “We are a center-right-majority nation, but we are not getting through to the American public and we are becoming increasingly defined as a party of ‘no’.”..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"I have, for the longest time, been convinced that the Republican candidates have a very slim chance of beating Barack Obama without a struggling economy. And while I still think it is true, I think the Democrats have handed the GOP a gift that could be turned into victory if the GOP plays its cards well.
We are entering deja vu all over again.
On September 12, 2009, Janet Hook wrote in the Los Angeles Times that “[s]ome Republicans worry that the healthcare debate is reinforcing an unflattering image of them as the ‘Party of No.’” Bob Inglis (R-SC), who would go down to defeat in a primary at the hands of the tea party in 2010, gave voice to many
Republican leaders at the time when he said, “People are upset, but they expect leaders to remain calm and find solutions. . . . If you don’t have a plan about how to lead, why would anyone give you the majority?”
By the end of the year it was taken as objective fact. Being the “Party of No” would kill the GOP in 2010.
On television objective analysts, Democratic partisans, reporters, and “Republican leaders on background” all spoke of pending disaster for a Republican Party that refused to work with Barack Obama and said “no” to everything.
On February 15, 2010, Chris Cillizza in the Washington Post wrote of Fred Malek, an aide to President Nixon and big Republican donor starting a group called “American Action.” In an interview with the Washington Post, Malek openly fretted, “We are a center-right-majority nation, but we are not getting through to the American public and we are becoming increasingly defined as a party of ‘no’.”..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Hot Air Blog "Landrieu blasts Salazar, White House over drilling moratorium"
Ed Morrissey:
"I know, I know — the White House claims they don’t have any drilling moratorium in place. They claim that they want to increase domestic oil production. As Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) explains to Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, their actions don’t match their rhetoric. After Salazar insisted that the administration has been processing permits and Sen. Al Franken claimed that Exxon profits show that oil companies are doing well, Landrieu blasts both while setting the record straight in hearings yesterday...."
(Click title to watch videos and read more)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"I know, I know — the White House claims they don’t have any drilling moratorium in place. They claim that they want to increase domestic oil production. As Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) explains to Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, their actions don’t match their rhetoric. After Salazar insisted that the administration has been processing permits and Sen. Al Franken claimed that Exxon profits show that oil companies are doing well, Landrieu blasts both while setting the record straight in hearings yesterday...."
(Click title to watch videos and read more)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Newsmax "Tough Re-election Road Awaits Michele Bachmann"
Jim Meyers:
"Rebounding from her failed presidential bid, Republican Rep. Michele Bachmann is setting her sights on re-election to the House — but she faces a tough battle to retain her seat in a redrawn Minnesota district.
One recent poll showed Bachmann’s favorability rating among Minnesota voters at just 34 percent.
And the Minnesota congresswoman’s national base of conservative donors may be tiring of her pleas for money, as she carries a $1 million presidential campaign debt from her fumbled bid.
“May God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.” With those words, Bachmann departed the Republican presidential arena in January, following a disappointing sixth place finish in Iowa.
Many were surprised that one of the conservative movement’s newest icons would suffer such a disastrous defeat. But a series of fumbles and gaffes on the campaign trail not only caused her campaign to go into a tailspin, it tarnished her most important asset: her ability to raise funds from the grassroots across the nation...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Rebounding from her failed presidential bid, Republican Rep. Michele Bachmann is setting her sights on re-election to the House — but she faces a tough battle to retain her seat in a redrawn Minnesota district.
One recent poll showed Bachmann’s favorability rating among Minnesota voters at just 34 percent.
And the Minnesota congresswoman’s national base of conservative donors may be tiring of her pleas for money, as she carries a $1 million presidential campaign debt from her fumbled bid.
“May God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.” With those words, Bachmann departed the Republican presidential arena in January, following a disappointing sixth place finish in Iowa.
Many were surprised that one of the conservative movement’s newest icons would suffer such a disastrous defeat. But a series of fumbles and gaffes on the campaign trail not only caused her campaign to go into a tailspin, it tarnished her most important asset: her ability to raise funds from the grassroots across the nation...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "Liddick: Let's move on Syria"
Morgan Liddick:
"...Is there danger in taking sides in Syria? Yes. The Syrian opposition undoubtedly contains Islamist elements, exactly as it did in Libya and Egypt; concern over a possible Islamist takeover is a major reason large ethnic groups in Syria continue to support the government. We too, should realize that such a new government may not be very friendly to us. But should this concern paralyze us, when there are many positive geopolitical results to be reaped from forthright, immediate action in concert with, for example, the Gulf Cooperation Council and Turkey? Call it “addressing humanitarian concerns,” if that sounds better.
Or, we can continue to wring our hands in anguish and chastise Bashar Assad's blood-spattered thugs. And when the Syrian opposition has been ground to dust, vow that this sort of thing will never happen again. I'm sure the dead of Baba Amr will appreciate the sentiment....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"...Is there danger in taking sides in Syria? Yes. The Syrian opposition undoubtedly contains Islamist elements, exactly as it did in Libya and Egypt; concern over a possible Islamist takeover is a major reason large ethnic groups in Syria continue to support the government. We too, should realize that such a new government may not be very friendly to us. But should this concern paralyze us, when there are many positive geopolitical results to be reaped from forthright, immediate action in concert with, for example, the Gulf Cooperation Council and Turkey? Call it “addressing humanitarian concerns,” if that sounds better.
Or, we can continue to wring our hands in anguish and chastise Bashar Assad's blood-spattered thugs. And when the Syrian opposition has been ground to dust, vow that this sort of thing will never happen again. I'm sure the dead of Baba Amr will appreciate the sentiment....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Nat Hentoff "A reporter lighting up the world’s hells"
Nat Hentoff:
"Urgent global attention is being paid to Syria’s monstrous president Bashar al-Assad as he commits genocide on his people. But another mass murderer remains mostly out of the American press. Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir continues his decades-long reign of terror on his people despite two warrants for his arrest by the International Criminal Court for, among other vile atrocities, war crimes, crimes against humanity — and yes, genocide.
For years, I have reported on his massacres in Darfur and elsewhere in Sudan, a place I’ve never been. But Nicholas Kristof of The New York Times has slipped into the infamous region more than 10 times to keep the world informed of Bashir’s endless killings.
Kristof does this at considerable personal danger, as he also reports from other devastatingly ruthless regimes. On receiving one of his Pulitzer Prizes, he was accurately described as “giving voice to the voiceless.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Urgent global attention is being paid to Syria’s monstrous president Bashar al-Assad as he commits genocide on his people. But another mass murderer remains mostly out of the American press. Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir continues his decades-long reign of terror on his people despite two warrants for his arrest by the International Criminal Court for, among other vile atrocities, war crimes, crimes against humanity — and yes, genocide.
For years, I have reported on his massacres in Darfur and elsewhere in Sudan, a place I’ve never been. But Nicholas Kristof of The New York Times has slipped into the infamous region more than 10 times to keep the world informed of Bashir’s endless killings.
Kristof does this at considerable personal danger, as he also reports from other devastatingly ruthless regimes. On receiving one of his Pulitzer Prizes, he was accurately described as “giving voice to the voiceless.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "King’s pot DUI bill OK’d by panel"
This is terrific news. A special thank you goes out to State Senator Steve King. We're pretty sure law enforcement is grateful for this one. For certain, our roads will be safer.
Charles Ashby:
"It was a battle of the scientists in a Senate committee Monday over whether there is any way to determine if there is a marijuana equivalent to the blood-alcohol level used for DUIs.
After nearly seven hours of testimony, most members of Senate State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committee agreed that the science was still murky, but said there was enough to set such a level for toking while driving...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Charles Ashby:
"It was a battle of the scientists in a Senate committee Monday over whether there is any way to determine if there is a marijuana equivalent to the blood-alcohol level used for DUIs.
After nearly seven hours of testimony, most members of Senate State, Veterans & Military Affairs Committee agreed that the science was still murky, but said there was enough to set such a level for toking while driving...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Aspen Times biased against Glenn"
An excellent letter from Glenn Rappaport who is a Basalt Town Councilman and mayoral candidate. Again, up on the Aspen Daily News.
Goodness, local political races are sure heating up early, aren't they?
"There is ample good sense contained in the first rule of public office: “Don’t respond to people who buy ink by the gallon.” And yet Scott Condon, a prominent Aspen Times journalist, has for years deployed his ink to question my integrity and undermine my moral fiber. His latest dispatch, published last Friday, Feb. 24, does the same. I write to set the record straight.
Most of us in and around the Basalt Town Hall are well aware that Mr. Condon, the only valley writer who regularly covers Basalt politics, has had a long and close friendship with Jacque Whitsitt, my opponent in the upcoming Basalt mayoral race.
Over the decades it’s been frustrating — and rather frightening — to watch Mr. Condon cast me as the protagonist in a string of fictional scandals, then resurrect those fake scandals as official history in his ongoing coverage of Basalt politics. His latest version of this trick, published last week, revolves around my work as a consultant for the proposed Pan and Fork redevelopment project, a revitalization effort for downtown Basalt. Because of my involvement, I have recused myself from voting on the project as a member of the Basalt Town Council; this is standard procedure for public servants whose private sector work comes up for review. Yet Condon raises doubts about my potential effectiveness as mayor, and even lightly suggests I could be breaking the law.
Ultimately he comes up short, leaving observers of Basalt politics to wonder at his timing. Even if there were a scandal afoot, why didn’t he write about it four months ago, when Harry Teague and I first signed on to consult on the Pan and Fork project? Did he hold off to give Jacque Whitsitt, his friend and my opponent, a proverbial bump in the mayoral race?..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Goodness, local political races are sure heating up early, aren't they?
"There is ample good sense contained in the first rule of public office: “Don’t respond to people who buy ink by the gallon.” And yet Scott Condon, a prominent Aspen Times journalist, has for years deployed his ink to question my integrity and undermine my moral fiber. His latest dispatch, published last Friday, Feb. 24, does the same. I write to set the record straight.
Most of us in and around the Basalt Town Hall are well aware that Mr. Condon, the only valley writer who regularly covers Basalt politics, has had a long and close friendship with Jacque Whitsitt, my opponent in the upcoming Basalt mayoral race.
Over the decades it’s been frustrating — and rather frightening — to watch Mr. Condon cast me as the protagonist in a string of fictional scandals, then resurrect those fake scandals as official history in his ongoing coverage of Basalt politics. His latest version of this trick, published last week, revolves around my work as a consultant for the proposed Pan and Fork redevelopment project, a revitalization effort for downtown Basalt. Because of my involvement, I have recused myself from voting on the project as a member of the Basalt Town Council; this is standard procedure for public servants whose private sector work comes up for review. Yet Condon raises doubts about my potential effectiveness as mayor, and even lightly suggests I could be breaking the law.
Ultimately he comes up short, leaving observers of Basalt politics to wonder at his timing. Even if there were a scandal afoot, why didn’t he write about it four months ago, when Harry Teague and I first signed on to consult on the Pan and Fork project? Did he hold off to give Jacque Whitsitt, his friend and my opponent, a proverbial bump in the mayoral race?..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: "Aspen Daily News "City’s hydro push a disgrace to democratic process"
Great advice from Hauenstein. Up on the Aspen Daily News.
Ward Hauenstein, Aspen:
"...The city does not want to discuss the issues related to the hydro project. They want to divert attention, and cry WMD and Swift Boat. They want the public to be distracted from the city’s deceptive process and lack of fiscal responsibility. The city wants to make the public fear a group that has exercised its legal and ethical rights to oppose the hydro project.
SOS is not the dark, sinister, extreme right wing boogie man that Mayor Mick Ireland tries to project. The city government is trying to use fear to distract attention from the real issues. WMD, Swift Boat, you are with us or against us. These tactics are despicable and damaging to democracy. I think the citizens of Aspen can see through them if they just see it for what it is.
I am outraged by the behavior and culture of my city government. The many irrational rants delivered by our mayor and condoned by council is a disgrace to the democratic process. My sponsorship of the petition on the hydro project was a protest of the city’s behavior.
Be a critical thinker. Be a skeptic. Be a cynic. Who is engaged in misinformation?...."
(Read the rest? You should. Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Ward Hauenstein, Aspen:
"...The city does not want to discuss the issues related to the hydro project. They want to divert attention, and cry WMD and Swift Boat. They want the public to be distracted from the city’s deceptive process and lack of fiscal responsibility. The city wants to make the public fear a group that has exercised its legal and ethical rights to oppose the hydro project.
SOS is not the dark, sinister, extreme right wing boogie man that Mayor Mick Ireland tries to project. The city government is trying to use fear to distract attention from the real issues. WMD, Swift Boat, you are with us or against us. These tactics are despicable and damaging to democracy. I think the citizens of Aspen can see through them if they just see it for what it is.
I am outraged by the behavior and culture of my city government. The many irrational rants delivered by our mayor and condoned by council is a disgrace to the democratic process. My sponsorship of the petition on the hydro project was a protest of the city’s behavior.
Be a critical thinker. Be a skeptic. Be a cynic. Who is engaged in misinformation?...."
(Read the rest? You should. Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Your Letters "Battle pitting farm vs. asphalt plant is hurting economy"
(See related story here)
Commissioner Samson had the best approach to solve the problem.
Commissioners Jankovsky and Martin, fresh off recent and scathing public commentary over a couple of local issues make a very poor for the highest interests of everyone involved 'political' call and attempt to soothe activists using fear-mongering and bullying tactics.
As precarious as Martin's seat is and as close as he is being watched by conservatives in GarCo, one would think he would stay focused on the job. This move will surely backfire on him in the political eye he needs.
Thank you goes out to Commissioner Mike Samson for simply resorting to common sense.
Great letter today from Damian Ellsworth of Rifle, Colorado:
"..With all of the knowledge and information that everyone has access to, it is a shame that people would rather rely on fear mongering and terrorism than actual data. All of the slanderous emails that are flying around and erroneous statements in the paper are pitting two much-needed industries against each other, which is doing nothing but hurting this economy on a local level.
Maybe one day, the activists will wake up and realize that all of this nonsense really just wasted everybody's time, including yours and mine.
The staff at the Garfield County Building and Planning department do an excellent job with countless hours of research. Nobody could possibly understand how much they work until they have been through this process themselves....." (Read the rest? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Commissioner Samson had the best approach to solve the problem.
Commissioners Jankovsky and Martin, fresh off recent and scathing public commentary over a couple of local issues make a very poor for the highest interests of everyone involved 'political' call and attempt to soothe activists using fear-mongering and bullying tactics.
As precarious as Martin's seat is and as close as he is being watched by conservatives in GarCo, one would think he would stay focused on the job. This move will surely backfire on him in the political eye he needs.
Thank you goes out to Commissioner Mike Samson for simply resorting to common sense.
Great letter today from Damian Ellsworth of Rifle, Colorado:
"..With all of the knowledge and information that everyone has access to, it is a shame that people would rather rely on fear mongering and terrorism than actual data. All of the slanderous emails that are flying around and erroneous statements in the paper are pitting two much-needed industries against each other, which is doing nothing but hurting this economy on a local level.
Maybe one day, the activists will wake up and realize that all of this nonsense really just wasted everybody's time, including yours and mine.
The staff at the Garfield County Building and Planning department do an excellent job with countless hours of research. Nobody could possibly understand how much they work until they have been through this process themselves....." (Read the rest? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Udall wilderness proposal includes Hidden Gems land"
And 10 years later, the right answer is still the same:
Just say NO.
Public lands, public use, public access.
Andrew Travers:
"U.S. Sen. Mark Udall is working on new wilderness legislation that could include 13 areas covering more than 60,000 acres in Pitkin County within the Hidden Gems wilderness proposal.
In all, Udall announced on Sunday in Frisco, he is seeking public input on new wilderness designations for 236,000 acres of land in western Colorado. It also includes Gems areas in Eagle and Summit counties.
In coming months, the senator plans to do widespread outreach to locals in the areas at issue. A comment page is open on his website, which includes detailed maps and a list of the sites he is considering.
“Before we do anything,” Udall said in a statement Sunday, unveiling what he’s dubbed the Central Mountains Outdoor Heritage Act, “it’s important to me to hear from as many Coloradans as possible about how the land is used today and their vision for the future of these special places.”
The Gems proposal went through a years-long public debate in the Eagle and Roaring Fork valleys, spearheaded by the Carbondale-based Wilderness Workshop, before going to Washington. The wilderness advocacy organization negotiated with groups like snowmobilers and mountain bikers, who opposed protections that would curb recreation in certain areas or limit future trail construction.
The proposal sparked controversy in some recreational factions of western Colorado, as all mechanized and motorized uses are banned in federally-designated wilderness areas.
After dropping hundreds of thousands of acres from the proposal and attempting to build community consensus, Wilderness Workshop sent a draft bill to Colorado’s congressional delegation in 2010...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Just say NO.
Public lands, public use, public access.
Andrew Travers:
"U.S. Sen. Mark Udall is working on new wilderness legislation that could include 13 areas covering more than 60,000 acres in Pitkin County within the Hidden Gems wilderness proposal.
In all, Udall announced on Sunday in Frisco, he is seeking public input on new wilderness designations for 236,000 acres of land in western Colorado. It also includes Gems areas in Eagle and Summit counties.
In coming months, the senator plans to do widespread outreach to locals in the areas at issue. A comment page is open on his website, which includes detailed maps and a list of the sites he is considering.
“Before we do anything,” Udall said in a statement Sunday, unveiling what he’s dubbed the Central Mountains Outdoor Heritage Act, “it’s important to me to hear from as many Coloradans as possible about how the land is used today and their vision for the future of these special places.”
The Gems proposal went through a years-long public debate in the Eagle and Roaring Fork valleys, spearheaded by the Carbondale-based Wilderness Workshop, before going to Washington. The wilderness advocacy organization negotiated with groups like snowmobilers and mountain bikers, who opposed protections that would curb recreation in certain areas or limit future trail construction.
The proposal sparked controversy in some recreational factions of western Colorado, as all mechanized and motorized uses are banned in federally-designated wilderness areas.
After dropping hundreds of thousands of acres from the proposal and attempting to build community consensus, Wilderness Workshop sent a draft bill to Colorado’s congressional delegation in 2010...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "G forces to increase at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park this summer"
And therein lies the rub (see related stories and public commentary here):
John Stroud:
"The new attractions are part of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park's five-year expansion plan, which was approved last week by the Garfield County commissioners."
Other items in Stroud's piece today that sound like they're going to stir the pot of public commentary:
"...The new coaster is modest by steel roller coaster standards. The Cliffhanger tops out at about 54 feet, compared to the tallest roller coaster in the world, the Kingda Ka, at 456 feet, located at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey...."
"....A portion of the coaster will be visible from parts of Glenwood Springs extending above the piñon-juniper tree line, according to the master plan that was presented to the county last week. However, the steel framework is to be painted a dark color and should blend in with the hillside, according to the plan....."
"...“The good thing about this is it will double our capacity, from 1,100 rides per hour to 2,600 rides per hour,” he said. “That will significantly help with the line waits.”...."
(Read the article? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
John Stroud:
"The new attractions are part of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park's five-year expansion plan, which was approved last week by the Garfield County commissioners."
Other items in Stroud's piece today that sound like they're going to stir the pot of public commentary:
"...The new coaster is modest by steel roller coaster standards. The Cliffhanger tops out at about 54 feet, compared to the tallest roller coaster in the world, the Kingda Ka, at 456 feet, located at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey...."
"....A portion of the coaster will be visible from parts of Glenwood Springs extending above the piñon-juniper tree line, according to the master plan that was presented to the county last week. However, the steel framework is to be painted a dark color and should blend in with the hillside, according to the plan....."
"...“The good thing about this is it will double our capacity, from 1,100 rides per hour to 2,600 rides per hour,” he said. “That will significantly help with the line waits.”...."
(Read the article? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Microsoft teams up with World Tourism Organization"
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Web 3.0 technologies and cloud computing could help grow small and mid-size tourism businesses, especially in emerging-economy countries, officials with the UN’s World Tourism Organization said this week as they announced an innovative partnership with Microsoft. Under the agreement, tourism businesses could become testbeds for emerging information technologies.
“The tourism sector has undergone a drastic transformation over the past years and has been evolving towards Tourism 3.0, where users connect to travel websites and interact by sharing their experiences,” said Microsoft International president Jean-Philippe Courtois. “That directly influences the perceptions and decisions of other users and potential travelers. Because of this, it is more and more important for tourism sector enterprises to develop their online businesses by looking to the most advanced technology. In this regard, the adoption of cloud computing is key, as it provides access to a solid web platform that will make it possible to offer more productive, efficient and competitive services,” he said.
The agreement was signed Feb. 28 in Madrid, making Microsoft a strategic partner of UNWTO that will propose, coordinate and spearhead technological innovation initiatives. The deal will also make new technologies available to the international tourism sector in order to enhance its competitiveness...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Web 3.0 technologies and cloud computing could help grow small and mid-size tourism businesses, especially in emerging-economy countries, officials with the UN’s World Tourism Organization said this week as they announced an innovative partnership with Microsoft. Under the agreement, tourism businesses could become testbeds for emerging information technologies.
“The tourism sector has undergone a drastic transformation over the past years and has been evolving towards Tourism 3.0, where users connect to travel websites and interact by sharing their experiences,” said Microsoft International president Jean-Philippe Courtois. “That directly influences the perceptions and decisions of other users and potential travelers. Because of this, it is more and more important for tourism sector enterprises to develop their online businesses by looking to the most advanced technology. In this regard, the adoption of cloud computing is key, as it provides access to a solid web platform that will make it possible to offer more productive, efficient and competitive services,” he said.
The agreement was signed Feb. 28 in Madrid, making Microsoft a strategic partner of UNWTO that will propose, coordinate and spearhead technological innovation initiatives. The deal will also make new technologies available to the international tourism sector in order to enhance its competitiveness...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Wound from spinner shark ends in heart surgery for Lasser"
Chad Abraham:
"Jason Lasser may have the ultimate fish story.
Kitesurfing Sunday off the coast of Florida, the Aspenite hit the top of a big wave that happened to have another inhabitant.
Lasser said Tuesday he believes his right foot struck a spinner shark in the mouth, opening a gash that severed tendons and ligaments.
“It felt like I hit a concrete pier,” he said. “I hit him, lifted my foot out of the water and thought, ‘Uh-oh.’”
Blood had not yet begun to flow out of the still-white wound when Lasser decided to get to the beach as soon as possible.
“I went in so fast my shorts came flying off,” he said. “I was mostly worried about my winky hanging out and something biting that.”
A surfer nearby helped him land his kiteboard, and his father took him to the emergency room — first, though, he took a group photo with his friends, the bloody foot featured prominently — at JFK Medical Center in West Palm Beach, where the story gets more interesting.
Before foot surgery that would leave him with 26 stitches, Lasser was given an electrocardiogram test.
The exam showed he had Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, a heart condition that can lead to episodes of rapid heart rate. Lasser said he had periodically experienced a rapid heartbeat since childhood but had never been diagnosed with the syndrome.
And so on Tuesday, two days after the shark encounter, Lasser underwent heart surgery to alleviate the syndrome.
Lasser spoke about the incident before heading into the operating room, where he was worked on by a surgeon named, of course, Robert Fishel..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Jason Lasser may have the ultimate fish story.
Kitesurfing Sunday off the coast of Florida, the Aspenite hit the top of a big wave that happened to have another inhabitant.
Lasser said Tuesday he believes his right foot struck a spinner shark in the mouth, opening a gash that severed tendons and ligaments.
“It felt like I hit a concrete pier,” he said. “I hit him, lifted my foot out of the water and thought, ‘Uh-oh.’”
Blood had not yet begun to flow out of the still-white wound when Lasser decided to get to the beach as soon as possible.
“I went in so fast my shorts came flying off,” he said. “I was mostly worried about my winky hanging out and something biting that.”
A surfer nearby helped him land his kiteboard, and his father took him to the emergency room — first, though, he took a group photo with his friends, the bloody foot featured prominently — at JFK Medical Center in West Palm Beach, where the story gets more interesting.
Before foot surgery that would leave him with 26 stitches, Lasser was given an electrocardiogram test.
The exam showed he had Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, a heart condition that can lead to episodes of rapid heart rate. Lasser said he had periodically experienced a rapid heartbeat since childhood but had never been diagnosed with the syndrome.
And so on Tuesday, two days after the shark encounter, Lasser underwent heart surgery to alleviate the syndrome.
Lasser spoke about the incident before heading into the operating room, where he was worked on by a surgeon named, of course, Robert Fishel..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 27, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Union Leader "The ghosts of Watergate"
George Will:
"IN 1960, when Thomas Mallon was in the fourth grade, he wore his Nixon-Lodge button to school and warned classmates that John Kennedy was too inexperienced to be President. Mallon was crushed when Richard Nixon lost, but things worked out well. He is a novelist for whom Nixon eventually provided interesting characters.
They're back. Howard Hunt, Bernard Barker, James McCord, John Dean, Bob Haldeman, Fred LaRue, Gordon Liddy, John and Martha Mitchell, Jeb Magruder, Charles Colson, Herbert Kalmbach, Gordon Strachan, Rose Mary Woods, Anthony (“Tough Tony”) Ulasewicz and others. These were the dramatis personae of the scandal — actually a mare's nest of scandals — that began to become public 40 years ago this coming June 17..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"IN 1960, when Thomas Mallon was in the fourth grade, he wore his Nixon-Lodge button to school and warned classmates that John Kennedy was too inexperienced to be President. Mallon was crushed when Richard Nixon lost, but things worked out well. He is a novelist for whom Nixon eventually provided interesting characters.
They're back. Howard Hunt, Bernard Barker, James McCord, John Dean, Bob Haldeman, Fred LaRue, Gordon Liddy, John and Martha Mitchell, Jeb Magruder, Charles Colson, Herbert Kalmbach, Gordon Strachan, Rose Mary Woods, Anthony (“Tough Tony”) Ulasewicz and others. These were the dramatis personae of the scandal — actually a mare's nest of scandals — that began to become public 40 years ago this coming June 17..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Iowa Republican "Latham: Debt is Our Greatest National Security Issue"
Kevin Hall:
"Iowa Congressman Tom Latham did not provide a rosy prognosis for the country’s massive debt problems when he met with a group of 25 Des Moines area business leaders on Friday. Latham says the current makeup of Congress prevents serious problems from being addressed.
“Dealing with the Senate today is virtually impossible,” Latham said. “They won’t even pass a budget this year for the third year in a row because they would have to take tough votes. I’m sorry, but that’s what the hell we get paid for. It’s all politics. They don’t want to have to be held accountable for anything.”
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Iowa Congressman Tom Latham did not provide a rosy prognosis for the country’s massive debt problems when he met with a group of 25 Des Moines area business leaders on Friday. Latham says the current makeup of Congress prevents serious problems from being addressed.
“Dealing with the Senate today is virtually impossible,” Latham said. “They won’t even pass a budget this year for the third year in a row because they would have to take tough votes. I’m sorry, but that’s what the hell we get paid for. It’s all politics. They don’t want to have to be held accountable for anything.”
The roundtable discussion with Tom Latham was sponsored by Americans for a Balanced Budget. ABB is a national organization of 20,000 members that advocates for a budget amendment, modernized tax code and solutions to the country’s deficit. Latham told the attendees that he agrees with the assessment of Admiral Mullen, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Mullen testified to Congress that the national debt is America’s greatest national security issue...." (Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Why spend against the vote?"
Hear, Hear!!
Nowhere in the USA are there better examples of 'why' people feel they need anonymity for protection than right here in the Roaring Fork Valley, the 5th, 9th, 10th and 21st Judicial Districts and both Garfield and Pitkin counties.
When they are met with nowhere to turn (and) complete and total quashing of their voices and lives; the people have no other recall than to do the best they can to stand on their own.
Another special thank you goes out to Maurice Emmer. Sometimes, it does pay off to get a lawyer thoroughly motivated. They do have a way with words, don't they?
Maurice Emmer:
"Editor:
A Feb. 24 article in the Aspen Daily News reported about the city’s spending on newspaper advertising relating to its proposed Castle Creek hydro project. The article reports that the city spent $5,255 in January and February on such ads. The article further indicates that the city did this to react to “misinformation.” As the Aspen Daily News recently seems to have been feeling its Cheerios as an investigative journal, it is surprising that the reporter did not press the city to specify even a single example of “misinformation” that has been disseminated against the project. Or perhaps there just didn’t happen to be any misinformation against which the city actually felt a need to react. Perhaps what the city was reacting to was a genuine and unexpected grass roots effort by residents to have their voices heard...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Nowhere in the USA are there better examples of 'why' people feel they need anonymity for protection than right here in the Roaring Fork Valley, the 5th, 9th, 10th and 21st Judicial Districts and both Garfield and Pitkin counties.
When they are met with nowhere to turn (and) complete and total quashing of their voices and lives; the people have no other recall than to do the best they can to stand on their own.
Another special thank you goes out to Maurice Emmer. Sometimes, it does pay off to get a lawyer thoroughly motivated. They do have a way with words, don't they?
Maurice Emmer:
"Editor:
A Feb. 24 article in the Aspen Daily News reported about the city’s spending on newspaper advertising relating to its proposed Castle Creek hydro project. The article reports that the city spent $5,255 in January and February on such ads. The article further indicates that the city did this to react to “misinformation.” As the Aspen Daily News recently seems to have been feeling its Cheerios as an investigative journal, it is surprising that the reporter did not press the city to specify even a single example of “misinformation” that has been disseminated against the project. Or perhaps there just didn’t happen to be any misinformation against which the city actually felt a need to react. Perhaps what the city was reacting to was a genuine and unexpected grass roots effort by residents to have their voices heard...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "District will help Aspen Community School shoot for $4.6M state grant"
Wouldn't it be wonderful if the RE-1 School District would lend their strength and power to helping our charter schools? Maybe with a new superintendent, we can.
Jeanne McGovern:
"ASPEN — The Aspen Board of Education once again will contribute half of its land-dedication fees for the year to the Aspen Community School's effort to secure a multimillion-dollar BEST (Building Excellent Schools Today) grant from the Colorado Department of Education.
“The Aspen School District has enjoyed its relationship with the Community School and is continuously discussing ways to support the school and assist the teachers and staff in meeting the needs of the children they serve,” said Aspen Superintendent John Maloy, noting the district made the same commitment last year. “The district is committed in helping the Community School secure a BEST grant in order to improve its aging facilities and create a safer, more flexible learning environment....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Jeanne McGovern:
"ASPEN — The Aspen Board of Education once again will contribute half of its land-dedication fees for the year to the Aspen Community School's effort to secure a multimillion-dollar BEST (Building Excellent Schools Today) grant from the Colorado Department of Education.
“The Aspen School District has enjoyed its relationship with the Community School and is continuously discussing ways to support the school and assist the teachers and staff in meeting the needs of the children they serve,” said Aspen Superintendent John Maloy, noting the district made the same commitment last year. “The district is committed in helping the Community School secure a BEST grant in order to improve its aging facilities and create a safer, more flexible learning environment....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: SkyHi Daily "East Grand committee recommends starting school after Labor Day"
Both are excellent ideas. There are so many things that could be done to make our public schools more efficient and self-sustaining. Without a dime spent to accomplish them.
The East Grand School District shows us two of them.
Tonya Bina:
"A calendar committee of the East Grand School Board Accountability Committee has recommended changing the East Grand school calendar to start the day after Labor Day.
From a community survey the committee conducted during the last three weeks of January, committee members found that a calendar starting school on Sept. 4 and ending on June 6 was the clear winner among 365 survey respondents. The survey takers chose from four different school calendars.
In order to start school after Labor Day, the calendar sacrifices vacation time leading up to Thanksgiving, with just Thanksgiving on Nov. 22 off, and shows no day in February off as a substitute for President's Day. The calendar shows the 2012-2013 winter break from Dec. 21 to Jan. 4.....
......After the presentation of the committee's recommendation, Dick Romshek, a retired high school teacher and past accountability committee member who sat in the audience, asked the committee to review next year changing the school week back to Tuesday through Friday.
Romshek said because of the amount of school-related extra-curricular activities on Thursdays-Saturdays, many times children would benefit from a Monday off to focus on getting ready for the school week...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
The East Grand School District shows us two of them.
Tonya Bina:
"A calendar committee of the East Grand School Board Accountability Committee has recommended changing the East Grand school calendar to start the day after Labor Day.
From a community survey the committee conducted during the last three weeks of January, committee members found that a calendar starting school on Sept. 4 and ending on June 6 was the clear winner among 365 survey respondents. The survey takers chose from four different school calendars.
In order to start school after Labor Day, the calendar sacrifices vacation time leading up to Thanksgiving, with just Thanksgiving on Nov. 22 off, and shows no day in February off as a substitute for President's Day. The calendar shows the 2012-2013 winter break from Dec. 21 to Jan. 4.....
......After the presentation of the committee's recommendation, Dick Romshek, a retired high school teacher and past accountability committee member who sat in the audience, asked the committee to review next year changing the school week back to Tuesday through Friday.
Romshek said because of the amount of school-related extra-curricular activities on Thursdays-Saturdays, many times children would benefit from a Monday off to focus on getting ready for the school week...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Business looking up for resort"
Carolyn Sackariason:
"After 11 consecutive months of increased sales tax revenue over 2010, the city of Aspen fared better than most of its ski resort counterparts in Colorado last year.
Aspen came in third for the largest increase in sales tax revenue in 2011 in a field of eight mountain towns, according to statistics provided by city finance director Don Taylor. Vail had the largest increase of nearly 10.6 percent in 2011 while Snowmass logged an 8.5 percent gain. The rest of the towns — Breckenridge, Winter Park, Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs and Crested Butte — all had gains but not as large as Aspen and Snowmass.
The city of Aspen last year posted a 7 percent gain over 2010, with a total of nearly $503 million in taxable sales generated across 12 retail sectors. A 4 percent increase in sales tax revenue was realized in 2010 over 2009, when the national recession took hold. Aspen’s sales tax revenue was down 14 percent in 2009 from the year prior.
In 2011, the city of Aspen reported that every month except January — which was down 1 percent — saw an increase over 2010. However, Aspen is still nowhere near pre-recession figures...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"After 11 consecutive months of increased sales tax revenue over 2010, the city of Aspen fared better than most of its ski resort counterparts in Colorado last year.
Aspen came in third for the largest increase in sales tax revenue in 2011 in a field of eight mountain towns, according to statistics provided by city finance director Don Taylor. Vail had the largest increase of nearly 10.6 percent in 2011 while Snowmass logged an 8.5 percent gain. The rest of the towns — Breckenridge, Winter Park, Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs and Crested Butte — all had gains but not as large as Aspen and Snowmass.
The city of Aspen last year posted a 7 percent gain over 2010, with a total of nearly $503 million in taxable sales generated across 12 retail sectors. A 4 percent increase in sales tax revenue was realized in 2010 over 2009, when the national recession took hold. Aspen’s sales tax revenue was down 14 percent in 2009 from the year prior.
In 2011, the city of Aspen reported that every month except January — which was down 1 percent — saw an increase over 2010. However, Aspen is still nowhere near pre-recession figures...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Pueblo Chieftain "Celebrating with leaps and bounds "
Approximately 1 in 1,500 people are born on Feb. 29, or leap day.
With such a rare birthday, the few people who are able to celebrate their actual birthday only once every four years are as unique in life as their special day.
Erin McConnell has the special treat of celebrating her real birthday for the second time this year, as she was born on leap day, eight years ago.
“I think it's cool having this birthday because I am the only kid at school that was born on leap day,” said the second-grader who attends St. Therese Catholic School.
Erin’s mom, Lisa Jagger, finds her daughter’s unique birthday to be quite special, saying, “It took us 10 years to have a child, and as if she wasn’t already a blessing, she was born on the most rare birthday of the year.”
When Erin was born, her family received a hand-addressed, hand-written congratulatory note from President George W. Bush and the first lady, who addressed leap year babies as a special occurrence. With only about 187,000 people in the United States born on this day, special notice is taken.
This year, Erin will celebrate among 15 of her friends at a birthday celebration at the YMCA..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning photo: Wilderness"
All credit: Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Sen. Mark Udall visited Frisco this weekend to advance a new plan for wilderness additions in Colorado, including many of the parcels that have long been part of the controversial hidden gems proposal. For me, looking at pictures like this is more than enough reason to advocate for as much wilderness preservation as possible. I know there are people who like to quibble over technicalities and semantics of wilderness designations, all while environmental degradation continues around us. I’m not OK with that. I say protect as much as we can, now. Later, if for some reason we decide we don’t want it to be wilderness, we can always change our minds, but once the land is committed to other uses, it’s almost impossible to get it back..." (Read more? Click title)
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Sen. Mark Udall visited Frisco this weekend to advance a new plan for wilderness additions in Colorado, including many of the parcels that have long been part of the controversial hidden gems proposal. For me, looking at pictures like this is more than enough reason to advocate for as much wilderness preservation as possible. I know there are people who like to quibble over technicalities and semantics of wilderness designations, all while environmental degradation continues around us. I’m not OK with that. I say protect as much as we can, now. Later, if for some reason we decide we don’t want it to be wilderness, we can always change our minds, but once the land is committed to other uses, it’s almost impossible to get it back..." (Read more? Click title)
February 26, 2012
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Dave Danforth "Less than zero "
Dave Danforth:
"...Small claims courtrooms are full of cases in which one party went in demanding money, only to find the defendant countersuing and eventually winning. Judges see through the vanity of plaintiffs. The winner is not always the one who fires the first shot.
They go in counting on winning. Not only do they come up empty, but they finish in the minus money.
In Aspen years ago, an ad agency sued a small company for an unpaid bill. The small company’s partners felt that they agency had overcharged it. They’d let bygones be bygones, but when the case was filed, decided to fight back. They countersued.
The judge decided the ad agency had breached its pricing and hadn’t put its desired charges in writing. Its owner, the would-be winner, was told to pay up instead.
Call it pushing your luck. It infects politics. Candidates miscalculate the effect of the rough and tumble. Opposition research is a field all its own, and nearly everyone is vulnerable. The mess often splashes out of bounds, causing collateral damage.
If you’re Herman Cain, one-time presidential material, how many women had to serially come out of the woodwork talking about your groping past to persuade you to give it up? What morsels will emerge about the remaining candidates before the race is over? The gamble that a piece of their past won’t be dislodged with time, particularly in an unforgiving digital era when bits of the past don’t yellow with age.
No candidate, asked to write up his or her own life, would do as nearly an unforgiving job as members of the public, press, and opposition research teams. Nearly every candidate has sworn that photographers were out for blood, capturing an unexpected moment of a growl or grimace. It gets worse on television, where cameras catch a napping moment and later repackage it for prime time.
Juries are notoriously unpredictable, but that doesn’t stop high-stakes gambles. Jurors feel a spell while the case is on, but afterwards, there is little anyone can do about them. Free speech follows. In one Aspen criminal trial, jurors decided that prosecutors had completely botched the case. A not guilty verdict would not do justice. So they appointed a spokesperson and declared that the district attorney (not the incumbent) had got the case entirely backwards. The defendant was the victim and the “victim” was the perp, the panel declared. They even apologized.
There’s only one thing worse than a judge who believes a case to have been a waste time. Juries come in two sizes: six-packs and twelves...." (Read more? Click title)
Note: Comment ability blocked on this post.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"...Small claims courtrooms are full of cases in which one party went in demanding money, only to find the defendant countersuing and eventually winning. Judges see through the vanity of plaintiffs. The winner is not always the one who fires the first shot.
They go in counting on winning. Not only do they come up empty, but they finish in the minus money.
In Aspen years ago, an ad agency sued a small company for an unpaid bill. The small company’s partners felt that they agency had overcharged it. They’d let bygones be bygones, but when the case was filed, decided to fight back. They countersued.
The judge decided the ad agency had breached its pricing and hadn’t put its desired charges in writing. Its owner, the would-be winner, was told to pay up instead.
Call it pushing your luck. It infects politics. Candidates miscalculate the effect of the rough and tumble. Opposition research is a field all its own, and nearly everyone is vulnerable. The mess often splashes out of bounds, causing collateral damage.
If you’re Herman Cain, one-time presidential material, how many women had to serially come out of the woodwork talking about your groping past to persuade you to give it up? What morsels will emerge about the remaining candidates before the race is over? The gamble that a piece of their past won’t be dislodged with time, particularly in an unforgiving digital era when bits of the past don’t yellow with age.
No candidate, asked to write up his or her own life, would do as nearly an unforgiving job as members of the public, press, and opposition research teams. Nearly every candidate has sworn that photographers were out for blood, capturing an unexpected moment of a growl or grimace. It gets worse on television, where cameras catch a napping moment and later repackage it for prime time.
Juries are notoriously unpredictable, but that doesn’t stop high-stakes gambles. Jurors feel a spell while the case is on, but afterwards, there is little anyone can do about them. Free speech follows. In one Aspen criminal trial, jurors decided that prosecutors had completely botched the case. A not guilty verdict would not do justice. So they appointed a spokesperson and declared that the district attorney (not the incumbent) had got the case entirely backwards. The defendant was the victim and the “victim” was the perp, the panel declared. They even apologized.
There’s only one thing worse than a judge who believes a case to have been a waste time. Juries come in two sizes: six-packs and twelves...." (Read more? Click title)
Note: Comment ability blocked on this post.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Vail Daily "Ski cowboys ride again"
"MINTURN — While the winds howled through Vail Saturday, in nearby Minturn the breeze wasn't enough to blow the cowboy hats off the heads of the spectators at Rocky Mountain Skijoring 2012.
The inaugural event, which continues today, is a true celebration of the West as horseback riding is served up alongside skiing with a touch of gambling on the side. Hundreds turned out Saturday and similar crowds are expected today...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 25, 2012
Sandbox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "Tipton: Wind credit will be OK'd "
Pete Roper:
"Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Colo., said Friday he expects Congress to renew and extend the federal wind power tax credit when the Senate and House give final approval to a transportation bill they are considering.
Speaking outside a workshop he was hosting for Pueblo-area businesses interested in overseas sales, Tipton said both Democratic and Republican lawmakers understand that Vestas Wind Technology and other wind-power manufacturers need the tax credit renewed as soon as possible or they face a slump in sales this year. The Vestas plant south of Pueblo employs 450 workers.
"I'm confident we will pass this but the fact is, Vestas is losing sales now because of the delay," said Tipton, who represents Pueblo and the 3rd Congressional District...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Colo., said Friday he expects Congress to renew and extend the federal wind power tax credit when the Senate and House give final approval to a transportation bill they are considering.
Speaking outside a workshop he was hosting for Pueblo-area businesses interested in overseas sales, Tipton said both Democratic and Republican lawmakers understand that Vestas Wind Technology and other wind-power manufacturers need the tax credit renewed as soon as possible or they face a slump in sales this year. The Vestas plant south of Pueblo employs 450 workers.
"I'm confident we will pass this but the fact is, Vestas is losing sales now because of the delay," said Tipton, who represents Pueblo and the 3rd Congressional District...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Town Hall/John Ransom "Just Drill, Barry"
John Ransom:
"For example, did you know that president Obama has been a champion of Big Oil since he became our Chameleon-in-Chief?
That’s right: Oil production is at an all time high under- hurray!- his administration because he’s been so cooperative with oil and gas producers- and, depending on your standards, or lack thereof, you might even believe him when he says it.
So let’s you, me and the New York Times agree that Obama really doesn’t have an energy policy. Recently Obama reinforced that notion, when he tried to sell us on the idea that he's responsible for increased oil production. Please.
You see, Obama was against oil production before his newest, bestest policy, just recently embraced 72 hours ago, that- to paraphrase him- says: “Drill, Barry, drill.”
His change of heart <hack, cough>, or lack thereof, has come about in wake of the administration’s latest self-inflicted gunshot wound to the economy, rising oil prices… again.
So it goes with oil prices.
Since Democrats took over Congress in 2007, we’ve gone from relatively stable oil prices to all time highs, a small correction, and now we are headed back to all-time highs...again. We have neither low prices, nor stable prices...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"For example, did you know that president Obama has been a champion of Big Oil since he became our Chameleon-in-Chief?
That’s right: Oil production is at an all time high under- hurray!- his administration because he’s been so cooperative with oil and gas producers- and, depending on your standards, or lack thereof, you might even believe him when he says it.
Last year the New York Times was so disgusted with Obama’s landmark, much-billed energy policy speech that they actually issued this correction:
So let’s you, me and the New York Times agree that Obama really doesn’t have an energy policy. Recently Obama reinforced that notion, when he tried to sell us on the idea that he's responsible for increased oil production. Please.
You see, Obama was against oil production before his newest, bestest policy, just recently embraced 72 hours ago, that- to paraphrase him- says: “Drill, Barry, drill.”
His change of heart <hack, cough>, or lack thereof, has come about in wake of the administration’s latest self-inflicted gunshot wound to the economy, rising oil prices… again.
For decades the basic policy of all US governments, Democrat or Republican, has been to keep oil prices relatively low and relatively stable. To argue a contrary policy, as Obama has done, would be like arguing that a higher crime rate leads to less crime because we’d end up getting more criminals off the street and in to jail. Crime rates would certainly go up, if we encouraged it.
So it goes with oil prices.
Since Democrats took over Congress in 2007, we’ve gone from relatively stable oil prices to all time highs, a small correction, and now we are headed back to all-time highs...again. We have neither low prices, nor stable prices...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summit Daily News "Blake: Beware an industry that seeks more regulation"
Peter Blake, Colorado News Agency:
"When trade groups seek to limit competition, a major goal for most of them, they usually just ask the legislature to provide state regulation and licensing.
But the title insurance folks are going beyond that. Apparently the licensing they already have isn't doing the job. Now they want to make sure the business is handled only by title companies that have a physical office inside Colorado's borders.
Regulation is never promoted as limiting competition, of course. It's always sought as being in the best interest of the consumer, who might otherwise suffer from lower prices — oops, make that shoddy goods and services.
Indeed, no licensing campaign has ever been launched by consumers. They can't afford lobbyists, and their response to shoddy goods or services is to stay away from them.
The sponsor of House Bill 1211 is Rep. Matt Jones, D-Boulder, but the driving force is the Land Title Association of Colorado. The bill does have the virtue of being short. All it demands is that title insurance agents in Colorado “maintain a physical office within this state” that is “the primary work place for one or more full-time employees.” For some reason, lawyers are exempted.
To most of us, title insurance is just one of those numerous documents that they shove at us to sign during the paper blizzard that accompanies the closing on a house we're selling or buying. There's a fee, of course; it's usually borne by the seller...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"When trade groups seek to limit competition, a major goal for most of them, they usually just ask the legislature to provide state regulation and licensing.
But the title insurance folks are going beyond that. Apparently the licensing they already have isn't doing the job. Now they want to make sure the business is handled only by title companies that have a physical office inside Colorado's borders.
Regulation is never promoted as limiting competition, of course. It's always sought as being in the best interest of the consumer, who might otherwise suffer from lower prices — oops, make that shoddy goods and services.
Indeed, no licensing campaign has ever been launched by consumers. They can't afford lobbyists, and their response to shoddy goods or services is to stay away from them.
The sponsor of House Bill 1211 is Rep. Matt Jones, D-Boulder, but the driving force is the Land Title Association of Colorado. The bill does have the virtue of being short. All it demands is that title insurance agents in Colorado “maintain a physical office within this state” that is “the primary work place for one or more full-time employees.” For some reason, lawyers are exempted.
To most of us, title insurance is just one of those numerous documents that they shove at us to sign during the paper blizzard that accompanies the closing on a house we're selling or buying. There's a fee, of course; it's usually borne by the seller...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: KREX News 5 "Heroin Use Alarmingly High in Mesa County"
Cori Coffin:
"Mesa County - Heroin use is at an all-time high in the Grand Valley. That's according to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office. In fact, drug officials are so concerned that they're teaming up with a special task force to combat this rising trend in our community.
Officials have seen several arrests recently in connection with the drug, and police officers say they've been encountering heroin more and more on their stops as well.
The problem has gotten so bad, Sheriff's officials say from 2000 to 2010, they made six arrests in relation to heroin. In the last three months, they've made 19 arrests...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Mesa County - Heroin use is at an all-time high in the Grand Valley. That's according to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office. In fact, drug officials are so concerned that they're teaming up with a special task force to combat this rising trend in our community.
Officials have seen several arrests recently in connection with the drug, and police officers say they've been encountering heroin more and more on their stops as well.
The problem has gotten so bad, Sheriff's officials say from 2000 to 2010, they made six arrests in relation to heroin. In the last three months, they've made 19 arrests...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Bebb-Jones preliminary hearing continued"
Update May 1, 2012:
http://sandboxcommentators.blogspot.com/2012/05/sandboxblogs-kidderminster-shuttle-son.html
________________________________
Interesting to note that it is actually John Colson, here on the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, who curbs the impulse to inflame and weave threads of 'a story' on the Bebb-Jones hearing.
And one of our most (still is) respected reporters on the Western Slope, Dennis Webb, is the one who surprisingly weaves a tale surrounding the hearing albeit likely that he's doing so verbatim.
From both reporters, the sounds of things leans toward plenty of story weaving to go around yesterday in the courtroom.
So, Colson gets the nod from the local avatar community and our thanks for keeping a balanced tone with factual rather than inflaming content on this story.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
http://sandboxcommentators.blogspot.com/2012/05/sandboxblogs-kidderminster-shuttle-son.html
________________________________
Interesting to note that it is actually John Colson, here on the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, who curbs the impulse to inflame and weave threads of 'a story' on the Bebb-Jones hearing.
And one of our most (still is) respected reporters on the Western Slope, Dennis Webb, is the one who surprisingly weaves a tale surrounding the hearing albeit likely that he's doing so verbatim.
From both reporters, the sounds of things leans toward plenty of story weaving to go around yesterday in the courtroom.
So, Colson gets the nod from the local avatar community and our thanks for keeping a balanced tone with factual rather than inflaming content on this story.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "BLM to consider wetlands expansion "
Matt Hildner:
"ALAMOSA — The Bureau of Land Management is considering expanding protection for a string of wetlands in eastern Alamosa County.
The agency will host a meeting Wednesday and seek public comment to help guide its study of the expansion of the Blanca Wetlands Area of Critical Environmental Concern, which currently takes in 8,395 acres.
"The Blanca Wetlands is one of the San Luis Valley's gems," said Andrew Archuleta, who manages the agency's valley office. "The public's input on this project is important in helping shape how we manage this special area...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"ALAMOSA — The Bureau of Land Management is considering expanding protection for a string of wetlands in eastern Alamosa County.
The agency will host a meeting Wednesday and seek public comment to help guide its study of the expansion of the Blanca Wetlands Area of Critical Environmental Concern, which currently takes in 8,395 acres.
"The Blanca Wetlands is one of the San Luis Valley's gems," said Andrew Archuleta, who manages the agency's valley office. "The public's input on this project is important in helping shape how we manage this special area...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Letter to the Editor "Welcome to the witch hunt"
Maurice Emmer:
"Editor:
Ken Neubecker has written an absolutely masterful explanation of the solid public policy reasons why not-for-profit groups are not required to disclose their donors’ identities. In addition to what Ken has explained, not-for-profit corporations must adopt a purpose and must state their purposes publicly. They also must limit the portion of their expenditures that is devoted to political activities. This is to insure that their stated purposes, rather than political purposes, are indeed their primary endeavors. Moreover, nonprofits typically publicize their events and activities, resulting in a high level of transparency for anyone who really cares to understand a particular not-for-profit organization...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Editor:
Ken Neubecker has written an absolutely masterful explanation of the solid public policy reasons why not-for-profit groups are not required to disclose their donors’ identities. In addition to what Ken has explained, not-for-profit corporations must adopt a purpose and must state their purposes publicly. They also must limit the portion of their expenditures that is devoted to political activities. This is to insure that their stated purposes, rather than political purposes, are indeed their primary endeavors. Moreover, nonprofits typically publicize their events and activities, resulting in a high level of transparency for anyone who really cares to understand a particular not-for-profit organization...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summit Daily News "Kirkwood reacts to its new ‘sugar daddy'"
Adam Jensen, Tahoe Daily Tribune:
"The resort's big lines and big snow totals are unique among the region's mountains, and its acquisition will add “a totally different experience” to Vail Resorts' portfolio in the area, said Blaise Carrig, co-president of VR.Online reactions to the announcement have been split, with some bemoaning the corporation's purchase and saying Kirkwood will never be the same. The possibility of crowding at the resort is on the minds of some, while others said they think the change in ownership will bring much-needed improvements to the resort. Many wondered about specific pass and ticket options, and whether lift ticket prices will jump.
“I've got mixed emotions,” said professional skier Josh Daiek, who calls Kirkwood home. “I think there's going to be some really good things that happen. But I'm also a little apprehensive about what's going to happen to the core of Kirkwood.”
Daiek's sister, professional snowboarder Rose Marie Daiek, had similar feelings about Wednesday's announcement.
“I think Kirkwood needs a sugar daddy,” Rose Marie Daiek said. “But I love it for being kind of hoopty, kind of small. I hope it doesn't blow up.
“I just really hope that the Kirkwood family that's been working there for years and years is taken care of, that's a big concern....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 24, 2012
SandBox Comments: Colorado Statesman "Scott Gessler, in his own words..."
Jody Hope Strogoff:
"Secretary of State Scott Gessler is clearly no stranger to publicity. Even before being sworn into office in January of 2011, his name was familiar in political circles. The Democrats had Mark Grueskin as their top election law guru, Republicans in the state usually turned to their own cadre of leading experts, with Gessler at or near the top of their list. There were plenty of stories over the years which showcased Gessler’s ties to Republicans and the political organizations they formed to advance their causes.
Gessler’s installation as a figure in the public domain was pretty much complete by the time the candidate ousted a Democratic incumbent in the 2010 election. The rookie elected official had little reason to expect that to change after he assumed office. And it didn’t...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Secretary of State Scott Gessler is clearly no stranger to publicity. Even before being sworn into office in January of 2011, his name was familiar in political circles. The Democrats had Mark Grueskin as their top election law guru, Republicans in the state usually turned to their own cadre of leading experts, with Gessler at or near the top of their list. There were plenty of stories over the years which showcased Gessler’s ties to Republicans and the political organizations they formed to advance their causes.
Gessler’s installation as a figure in the public domain was pretty much complete by the time the candidate ousted a Democratic incumbent in the 2010 election. The rookie elected official had little reason to expect that to change after he assumed office. And it didn’t...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Boston Herald "Two Americas indeed"
Michael Graham:
"I am the 50.5 percent.
I am, according to the Heritage Foundation, part of the lucky half of Americans who pay federal income taxes, so that the other half (technically the remaining 49.5 percent) can pay nothing.
Half of us are paying the whole bill. Somehow that doesn’t seem fair. Folks like Elizabeth Warren and President Barack Obama agree. They think we should pay more.
We’re used to that, we 50.5 percenters. Every time a new “stimulus” is announced, every time a new government program to solve all our problems is rolled out, we know that a) the problems aren’t going anywhere; and b) we’ll be stuck paying the check.
And every time there’s talk of a tax “cut” or a “rebate,” we assume it will be set up so that, somehow, the people who actually pay in get left out.
But what can you do, right? If you’re a 50.5 percenter you just get up, go to work, try to take care of your family and hope that someone, somewhere in Washington or on Beacon Hill is getting your back.
They’re not.
Why should they? We’re barely half of the population. Politicians count votes — not pay stubs.
Back in the evil days of Ronald Reagan, a mere 15 percent of the population didn’t pay taxes (or in the case of children, were claimed as a dependent by a taxpayer). Back then, we had lower rates and more payers. More people in the ship of state together, sharing in the rowing. We working taxpayers mattered.
Today, thanks to the “food stamp president,” as Newt Gingrich calls him, the number of non-payers is 300 percent bigger, and a record number of Americans, one in five, now receives some level of federal government assistance...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"I am the 50.5 percent.
I am, according to the Heritage Foundation, part of the lucky half of Americans who pay federal income taxes, so that the other half (technically the remaining 49.5 percent) can pay nothing.
Half of us are paying the whole bill. Somehow that doesn’t seem fair. Folks like Elizabeth Warren and President Barack Obama agree. They think we should pay more.
We’re used to that, we 50.5 percenters. Every time a new “stimulus” is announced, every time a new government program to solve all our problems is rolled out, we know that a) the problems aren’t going anywhere; and b) we’ll be stuck paying the check.
And every time there’s talk of a tax “cut” or a “rebate,” we assume it will be set up so that, somehow, the people who actually pay in get left out.
But what can you do, right? If you’re a 50.5 percenter you just get up, go to work, try to take care of your family and hope that someone, somewhere in Washington or on Beacon Hill is getting your back.
They’re not.
Why should they? We’re barely half of the population. Politicians count votes — not pay stubs.
Back in the evil days of Ronald Reagan, a mere 15 percent of the population didn’t pay taxes (or in the case of children, were claimed as a dependent by a taxpayer). Back then, we had lower rates and more payers. More people in the ship of state together, sharing in the rowing. We working taxpayers mattered.
Today, thanks to the “food stamp president,” as Newt Gingrich calls him, the number of non-payers is 300 percent bigger, and a record number of Americans, one in five, now receives some level of federal government assistance...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Dept of Defense "Face of Defense Marine Pulls Man From Burning Truck
By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Stephen T. Stewart
"MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C., Feb. 24, 2012 – Running late on his way to pick up a new fishing boat after work Feb. 14, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David S. Shouse was driving through the small town of Boiling Spring Lakes, N.C., when he saw a truck engulfed in flames...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C., Feb. 24, 2012 – Running late on his way to pick up a new fishing boat after work Feb. 14, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David S. Shouse was driving through the small town of Boiling Spring Lakes, N.C., when he saw a truck engulfed in flames...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Judge: Officer had cause to question suspect in cocaine distribution case"
Chad Abraham:
"A judge has ruled that an Aspen police officer had reasonable suspicion to stop and question a Snowmass Village man in 2010 about a fight, inquiries that led to his arrest for the brawl and, later, to him being charged with distribution of cocaine.
Justin Gordon, 33, is scheduled to be tried in May on felony counts of cocaine distribution and violating his bond by missing a court date for the drug charge.
Aspen police officer Rick Magnuson, told about an altercation outside Eric’s Bar on Oct. 1, 2010, testified in a Jan. 23 motions hearing that he spotted Gordon two blocks from the bar.
Magnuson said Gordon matched the description he had been given of the suspect in the fight, and the officer began questioning the defendant.
Gordon’s attorney, public defender Tina Fang, had argued that Magnuson did not have reasonable suspicion to stop her client.
“The court disagrees,” wrote Judge Gail Nichols of Pitkin County District Court. “Officer Magnuson knew that he was looking for a short, bald man in a green jacket. There were no other people with green jackets in the area — indeed, there were no other people walking in the area at all.”
Gordon allegedly headed into an alley after spotting Magnuson’s police car, “which could be an expression of consciousness of guilt,” the Feb. 10 ruling says. “All of these facts together provided reasonable suspicion to stop the defendant, question him about whether he was involved in a fight at Eric’s and obtain his identification.”
Gordon was originally arrested for his role in the fight outside the bar. He then was re-arrested the same month after a cabbie told police that cocaine that an officer found strewn in a street near the bar fell out of Gordon’s pocket during the fight.....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A judge has ruled that an Aspen police officer had reasonable suspicion to stop and question a Snowmass Village man in 2010 about a fight, inquiries that led to his arrest for the brawl and, later, to him being charged with distribution of cocaine.
Justin Gordon, 33, is scheduled to be tried in May on felony counts of cocaine distribution and violating his bond by missing a court date for the drug charge.
Aspen police officer Rick Magnuson, told about an altercation outside Eric’s Bar on Oct. 1, 2010, testified in a Jan. 23 motions hearing that he spotted Gordon two blocks from the bar.
Magnuson said Gordon matched the description he had been given of the suspect in the fight, and the officer began questioning the defendant.
Gordon’s attorney, public defender Tina Fang, had argued that Magnuson did not have reasonable suspicion to stop her client.
“The court disagrees,” wrote Judge Gail Nichols of Pitkin County District Court. “Officer Magnuson knew that he was looking for a short, bald man in a green jacket. There were no other people with green jackets in the area — indeed, there were no other people walking in the area at all.”
Gordon allegedly headed into an alley after spotting Magnuson’s police car, “which could be an expression of consciousness of guilt,” the Feb. 10 ruling says. “All of these facts together provided reasonable suspicion to stop the defendant, question him about whether he was involved in a fight at Eric’s and obtain his identification.”
Gordon was originally arrested for his role in the fight outside the bar. He then was re-arrested the same month after a cabbie told police that cocaine that an officer found strewn in a street near the bar fell out of Gordon’s pocket during the fight.....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Letter to the Editor "The magic of 'hello'"
Cole Langford:
"A friend recently remarked to me that I seemed to know a lot of people. He and I often walked together to grab lunch or head to the gym on our college campus. He observed that in the course of many strolls I often waved to someone or threw a quick hello in the direction of a passerby.
After his remark I quickly answered, “It’s the magic of saying hello.” He considered my theory, but his facial expression told me he didn’t grasp my meaning. The topic quickly faded and we moved on to other casual topics of conversation.
For the rest of the day my words lingered on my conscious. “It’s the magic of saying hello.” My words continued to provoke my reflection. Finally it occurred to me that I had unintentionally discovered a powerful aphorism. “It’s the magic of saying hello.” Wow.
Too many people, especially my generation, are buried in their technology. Everyone is hidden behind large sunglasses, deafened by ear-buds, and distracted by their iPhones. Facebook is a usual culprit. What about the faces on the bus? What about the faces passing on the sidewalk? Have we replaced those real faces with an electronic counterpart? It seems we have. I am not the overbearing social person. In fact, I may be on the upper end of introverted. Yet I know the power of “hello,” and I use it all the time...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A friend recently remarked to me that I seemed to know a lot of people. He and I often walked together to grab lunch or head to the gym on our college campus. He observed that in the course of many strolls I often waved to someone or threw a quick hello in the direction of a passerby.
After his remark I quickly answered, “It’s the magic of saying hello.” He considered my theory, but his facial expression told me he didn’t grasp my meaning. The topic quickly faded and we moved on to other casual topics of conversation.
For the rest of the day my words lingered on my conscious. “It’s the magic of saying hello.” My words continued to provoke my reflection. Finally it occurred to me that I had unintentionally discovered a powerful aphorism. “It’s the magic of saying hello.” Wow.
Too many people, especially my generation, are buried in their technology. Everyone is hidden behind large sunglasses, deafened by ear-buds, and distracted by their iPhones. Facebook is a usual culprit. What about the faces on the bus? What about the faces passing on the sidewalk? Have we replaced those real faces with an electronic counterpart? It seems we have. I am not the overbearing social person. In fact, I may be on the upper end of introverted. Yet I know the power of “hello,” and I use it all the time...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 23, 2012
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Jeremy Madden "A cop car for the civilian"
Jeremy Madden? Priceless.
"Just the sight of it sitting on the side of the road can slow even the speediest of cars. Viewing it in a rearview mirror can cause fear and panic. The rumble of its engine can make the ground shake.
It’s real and it’s all mine. It’s my new car and I’ve never driven anything like it.
Over the years I’ve had a plethora of pretty cool cars. Most notable are a 1973 Volkswagen Thing, my grandfather’s 1991 Buick Park Avenue, a precious 1984 American Eagle we called Smeagol, and the classic 1979 Dodge Aspen which is the car that made the town famous. However, as fun, dependable and historic as those vehicles may be, they aren’t anything like my new ride.
That’s because my newest ride is a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, aka CVPI or P71. And like Dan Aykroyd said in the classic 1980 film, “The Blues Brothers,” when describing the new Blues mobile which also was a former cop car, “It’s got a cop engine ... it’s got cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks.”
But Elwood Blues was only covering the basics. It’s also got a cop transmission, cop frame, cop radiator, cop brakes, and perhaps the coolest feature of all is the cop spot light mounted on the driver’s door.
For decades, because of its dependability, handling, toughness, powerful engine, spacious interior and giant trunk, the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor has been the preferred vehicle for police forces around the country. These same features have also made it one of the most sought after cars for cab companies as well. The car is a hybrid that was built long before Toyota ever dreamed up the Prius. The only difference being that the Toyota hybrid combines an engine that uses an electric battery with a conventional gas motor, and the Ford combines a tank with a sports car.
The first thing one notices about the interior of the car is that it is extremely spacious. There’s room for at least three perps in the back seat and several dozen donuts in the front.
The car is also very basic. Other than the ballsy V8 4.6 liter engine the cars has no frills. It’s completely utilitarian. And I like that. One of the more appealing features is that it has gauges for everything. There are no mystery lights that suddenly spring on and tell you too late that your car is overheating or losing oil pressure. However, the most appealing aspect of the interior is the speedometer. It goes to 140 mph.
The real fun comes while driving the beast. The car is smooth, stable and accelerates like a rocket. When some German coined the term “fahrvernugen,” loosely translated as driving joy, he might as well have been talking about the Ford Crown Vic Police Interceptor. It truly is a joy to drive. But the greatest pleasure of being behind the wheel is seeing how other folks react when they see me coming...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Just the sight of it sitting on the side of the road can slow even the speediest of cars. Viewing it in a rearview mirror can cause fear and panic. The rumble of its engine can make the ground shake.
It’s real and it’s all mine. It’s my new car and I’ve never driven anything like it.
Over the years I’ve had a plethora of pretty cool cars. Most notable are a 1973 Volkswagen Thing, my grandfather’s 1991 Buick Park Avenue, a precious 1984 American Eagle we called Smeagol, and the classic 1979 Dodge Aspen which is the car that made the town famous. However, as fun, dependable and historic as those vehicles may be, they aren’t anything like my new ride.
That’s because my newest ride is a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, aka CVPI or P71. And like Dan Aykroyd said in the classic 1980 film, “The Blues Brothers,” when describing the new Blues mobile which also was a former cop car, “It’s got a cop engine ... it’s got cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks.”
But Elwood Blues was only covering the basics. It’s also got a cop transmission, cop frame, cop radiator, cop brakes, and perhaps the coolest feature of all is the cop spot light mounted on the driver’s door.
For decades, because of its dependability, handling, toughness, powerful engine, spacious interior and giant trunk, the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor has been the preferred vehicle for police forces around the country. These same features have also made it one of the most sought after cars for cab companies as well. The car is a hybrid that was built long before Toyota ever dreamed up the Prius. The only difference being that the Toyota hybrid combines an engine that uses an electric battery with a conventional gas motor, and the Ford combines a tank with a sports car.
The first thing one notices about the interior of the car is that it is extremely spacious. There’s room for at least three perps in the back seat and several dozen donuts in the front.
The car is also very basic. Other than the ballsy V8 4.6 liter engine the cars has no frills. It’s completely utilitarian. And I like that. One of the more appealing features is that it has gauges for everything. There are no mystery lights that suddenly spring on and tell you too late that your car is overheating or losing oil pressure. However, the most appealing aspect of the interior is the speedometer. It goes to 140 mph.
The real fun comes while driving the beast. The car is smooth, stable and accelerates like a rocket. When some German coined the term “fahrvernugen,” loosely translated as driving joy, he might as well have been talking about the Ford Crown Vic Police Interceptor. It truly is a joy to drive. But the greatest pleasure of being behind the wheel is seeing how other folks react when they see me coming...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Community Briefs "Food vendor and exhibitor applications available for 115th annual Strawberry Days "
Unfortunately, not a thing has been done about Strawberry Days issues by our city administration or city council.
Given this week's climate in our forum of open commentary; 'SandBox Nanny' opts for simply tossing up the PI's reporting of some details for the 115th Strawberry Days celebration and reminding the 'kids' they are moderated:
via Glenwood Springs Post Independent:
"The Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association invites interested food vendors and exhibitors to apply for the 115th annual Strawberry Days to be held June 15, 16 and 17. Applications are available at strawberrydaysfestival.com or by calling the chamber at (970) 945-6589. The deadline to apply is April 15.
The theme for the 2012 event is Glenwood Springs — “America's Most Fun Town.” This year's festival features a FamilyFest area with interactive, entertaining and creative experiences for the kids; an arts and crafts fair and food court, an old-fashioned carnival; a parade down Grand Avenue and a full entertainment lineup.
For more information, call the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association at (970) 945-6589 or visit strawberrydaysfestival.com...." (Read original announcement? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Given this week's climate in our forum of open commentary; 'SandBox Nanny' opts for simply tossing up the PI's reporting of some details for the 115th Strawberry Days celebration and reminding the 'kids' they are moderated:
via Glenwood Springs Post Independent:
"The Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association invites interested food vendors and exhibitors to apply for the 115th annual Strawberry Days to be held June 15, 16 and 17. Applications are available at strawberrydaysfestival.com or by calling the chamber at (970) 945-6589. The deadline to apply is April 15.
The theme for the 2012 event is Glenwood Springs — “America's Most Fun Town.” This year's festival features a FamilyFest area with interactive, entertaining and creative experiences for the kids; an arts and crafts fair and food court, an old-fashioned carnival; a parade down Grand Avenue and a full entertainment lineup.
For more information, call the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association at (970) 945-6589 or visit strawberrydaysfestival.com...." (Read original announcement? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Eagle County Times "Cordillera Resolution? The letters are Here"
Things may be moving toward positive resolution up in Cordillera. Today's Vail Daily gives a look into the details and those wonder kids 'Paul Drake and Della Street' over on the Eagle County Times give us some interesting links.
'Paul Drake and Della Street':
"Letters from the Club at Cordillera & Litigation Update from CPOA
"To all Cordillera Property Owners:
The CPOA Board has received two letters regarding the litigation which we want to share with the community. The first is from Dr. Jeffrey L. Rush describing the restructuring of the Club at Cordillera. The second is from David Wilhelm offering to settle the lawsuit against the CPOA and the CTC. The letters are attached and speak for themselves.
As always, we welcome the opportunity to resolve the turmoil in the community and will be taking all appropriate steps to do so. In the meantime, the lawsuit proceeds. We are at the first stages of discovery. Written discovery has been propounded and depositions are being scheduled. We have a trial date of April 2013.
Thank you for your support and continued patience,
Lois M. Van Deusen, President, Cordillera Property Owners Association"
CLICK ON each letter below to read them!
Letter from Dr. Jeffrey L. Rush
Letter from David Wilhelm
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
'Paul Drake and Della Street':
"Letters from the Club at Cordillera & Litigation Update from CPOA
"To all Cordillera Property Owners:
The CPOA Board has received two letters regarding the litigation which we want to share with the community. The first is from Dr. Jeffrey L. Rush describing the restructuring of the Club at Cordillera. The second is from David Wilhelm offering to settle the lawsuit against the CPOA and the CTC. The letters are attached and speak for themselves.
As always, we welcome the opportunity to resolve the turmoil in the community and will be taking all appropriate steps to do so. In the meantime, the lawsuit proceeds. We are at the first stages of discovery. Written discovery has been propounded and depositions are being scheduled. We have a trial date of April 2013.
Thank you for your support and continued patience,
Lois M. Van Deusen, President, Cordillera Property Owners Association"
CLICK ON each letter below to read them!
Letter from Dr. Jeffrey L. Rush
Letter from David Wilhelm
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Right Door will remain independent"
Andrew Travers:
"A planned merger of The Right Door and the Aspen Valley Medical Foundation has fizzled due to an improved financial footing of the substance-abuse treatment organization, as well as philosophical differences between the nonprofits.
The Right Door, a nonprofit that provides counseling and services to treat substance abuse, had been slated to close last year due to financial difficulties. To keep it afloat, the medical foundation last fall began attempting to integrate The Right Door under its management.
The organizations held numerous meetings throughout the fall and the beginning of this year, crafting a management agreement. But both sides decided recently to scrap the plan. They had been attempting to merge the medical foundation’s Aspen Hope Center, which focuses on suicide prevention and mental health services, with The Right Door’s substance abuse treatment.
“Once we got more involved in their approach and ours, that’s when we decided it wasn’t a good match,” said medical foundation director Kris Marsh.
She said the differing treatment approaches of the organizations proved too different. While the Hope Center relies primarily on professional counseling, The Right Door’s case management services focus on counseling and transitioning clients with drug and alcohol problems into 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous.
Marsh and Right Door board president Michael Campbell said that attempting to mesh the approaches would be ineffective.
“We both came to the conclusion that we work better as complementary organizations,” Campbell said. “Bigger is not necessarily better....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A planned merger of The Right Door and the Aspen Valley Medical Foundation has fizzled due to an improved financial footing of the substance-abuse treatment organization, as well as philosophical differences between the nonprofits.
The Right Door, a nonprofit that provides counseling and services to treat substance abuse, had been slated to close last year due to financial difficulties. To keep it afloat, the medical foundation last fall began attempting to integrate The Right Door under its management.
The organizations held numerous meetings throughout the fall and the beginning of this year, crafting a management agreement. But both sides decided recently to scrap the plan. They had been attempting to merge the medical foundation’s Aspen Hope Center, which focuses on suicide prevention and mental health services, with The Right Door’s substance abuse treatment.
“Once we got more involved in their approach and ours, that’s when we decided it wasn’t a good match,” said medical foundation director Kris Marsh.
She said the differing treatment approaches of the organizations proved too different. While the Hope Center relies primarily on professional counseling, The Right Door’s case management services focus on counseling and transitioning clients with drug and alcohol problems into 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous.
Marsh and Right Door board president Michael Campbell said that attempting to mesh the approaches would be ineffective.
“We both came to the conclusion that we work better as complementary organizations,” Campbell said. “Bigger is not necessarily better....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: KREX News 5 "Montrose Movement to Improve Veterans' Quality of Life"
Danielle Kreutter:
"Montrose -The city of Montrose is no stranger to paying special attention to welcoming home troops, but one night while watching a CBS story about a triple amputee veteran finding happiness again in kayaking, Melanie Kline was inspired to do something more.
"We want Montrose to be the first city in America, the only city in America and maybe a model for a lot more cities in America, to become a 'no-barriers' environment," said Kline.
She created a grassroots effort to get Welcome Home Montrose off the ground, an organization that is centered around a vet's quality of life and what the city can do to help better it.
"Whatever barriers are in their way, whether they're physical barriers in our infrastructure or whether it's barriers to getting jobs and careers or services getting their needs met, we want to make sure those barriers are removed," said Kline..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Montrose -The city of Montrose is no stranger to paying special attention to welcoming home troops, but one night while watching a CBS story about a triple amputee veteran finding happiness again in kayaking, Melanie Kline was inspired to do something more.
"We want Montrose to be the first city in America, the only city in America and maybe a model for a lot more cities in America, to become a 'no-barriers' environment," said Kline.
She created a grassroots effort to get Welcome Home Montrose off the ground, an organization that is centered around a vet's quality of life and what the city can do to help better it.
"Whatever barriers are in their way, whether they're physical barriers in our infrastructure or whether it's barriers to getting jobs and careers or services getting their needs met, we want to make sure those barriers are removed," said Kline..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Readers Say Thanks "Thanks for support in film presentation"
This is a great turnout. A special thank you goes out to all supporting officers, agents, agencie and prosecutors who lent their time, caring and expertise to Childhelp's presentation.
"On Feb. 15, Childhelp River Bridge showed a screening of the film “The Playground: The Child Sex Trade in America” at the Glenwood Springs Community Center. The response from our community was overwhelming. More than 140 people attended the event, packing the room.
Human trafficking is not something any of us want to believe exists in our community. The reality of it breaks our hearts. It took courage to view a film about the exploitation of children, and I applaud all who attended.
As Amy Marsh stated in her interview on KDNK, “In order to protect our children, we must know what can harm them.”
We thank our panelists Anne Darr with the FBI, Emma Douglas with COVA, Chris Carter with ICE, Jeff Chaney with the 9th Judicial District Attorney's office and Gayle Embrey, executive producer of the film.
So many local agencies and businesses helped pulled this event together, providing food, lodging for our guests, press coverage and more.
We gratefully thank the Glenwood Springs Police Department, Garfield County Sheriff's Department, The Residence Inn, The Citizen Telegram, the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, KDNK and KMTS radio stations.
Thanks to all for investing their time and willingness to learn more about how we can keep our children safe."
(Lee Martin, victim advocate, Childhelp River Bridge, Glenwood Springs)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"On Feb. 15, Childhelp River Bridge showed a screening of the film “The Playground: The Child Sex Trade in America” at the Glenwood Springs Community Center. The response from our community was overwhelming. More than 140 people attended the event, packing the room.
Human trafficking is not something any of us want to believe exists in our community. The reality of it breaks our hearts. It took courage to view a film about the exploitation of children, and I applaud all who attended.
As Amy Marsh stated in her interview on KDNK, “In order to protect our children, we must know what can harm them.”
We thank our panelists Anne Darr with the FBI, Emma Douglas with COVA, Chris Carter with ICE, Jeff Chaney with the 9th Judicial District Attorney's office and Gayle Embrey, executive producer of the film.
So many local agencies and businesses helped pulled this event together, providing food, lodging for our guests, press coverage and more.
We gratefully thank the Glenwood Springs Police Department, Garfield County Sheriff's Department, The Residence Inn, The Citizen Telegram, the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, KDNK and KMTS radio stations.
Thanks to all for investing their time and willingness to learn more about how we can keep our children safe."
(Lee Martin, victim advocate, Childhelp River Bridge, Glenwood Springs)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "Related loses appeal"
(See related story here)
Brent Gardner-Smith, Aspen Journalism:
"A lower court judge, Judge Charles Ramos, dismissed Related's claims for monetary damages in its initial lawsuit during oral arguments in January 2011, but he did not rule on Related's motions for declaratory or injunctive relief.
Related then appealed the judge's dismissal of monetary claims. Oral arguments in the appeals case took place Jan. 26.
With its decision last week, the appeals court dismissed all of Related's claims against the banks and leaves the company on the defensive in the three loan-guarantee lawsuits, which are being heard by Ramos, as well as several other ongoing lawsuits from Hypo.
Officials from Related declined to comment on the court's decision or other ongoing litigation, as did Michael Tande, an executive with Lowe Enterprises, which is now managing Base Village on behalf of the banks...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Brent Gardner-Smith, Aspen Journalism:
"A lower court judge, Judge Charles Ramos, dismissed Related's claims for monetary damages in its initial lawsuit during oral arguments in January 2011, but he did not rule on Related's motions for declaratory or injunctive relief.
Related then appealed the judge's dismissal of monetary claims. Oral arguments in the appeals case took place Jan. 26.
With its decision last week, the appeals court dismissed all of Related's claims against the banks and leaves the company on the defensive in the three loan-guarantee lawsuits, which are being heard by Ramos, as well as several other ongoing lawsuits from Hypo.
Officials from Related declined to comment on the court's decision or other ongoing litigation, as did Michael Tande, an executive with Lowe Enterprises, which is now managing Base Village on behalf of the banks...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summit County Citizens Voice "Colorado Dead forests could affect the weather"
Here's a very interesting piece from Bob Berwyn. Up and over on the Summit County Citizens Voice.
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Researchers who set out to study whether deforestation on the slopes of Kilimanjaro is affecting the mountain’s ice cap concluded that large-scale climate changes have much more of an impact on the glaciers. But they also documented that clear-cutting the mountain’s forests is having a distinct effect on precipitation at the mid-level elevations, where rainfall has been reduced.
The findings could have implications for Colorado, where some forest landscapes are experiencing wholesale changes after the pine beetle epidemic. Both scientists said that, depending on the scale of changes in Colorado and the rest of the region affected by the outbreak, the changes in land cover could have an effect on summer rains by changing the amount of moisture available for convection in the lower atmosphere.
After reading about the Kilimanjaro research, I corresponded with two scientists who have studied how land-use changes can affect mesoscale weather, including Thomas Mölg (University of Innsbruck, Austria), who conducted the study at Kilimanjaro, and Roger Pielke, Sr., of the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES).
Since both researchers were kind enough to give detailed written answers to my email questions, I’m posting the Q & A rather than shortening or paraphrasing their quotes...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Researchers who set out to study whether deforestation on the slopes of Kilimanjaro is affecting the mountain’s ice cap concluded that large-scale climate changes have much more of an impact on the glaciers. But they also documented that clear-cutting the mountain’s forests is having a distinct effect on precipitation at the mid-level elevations, where rainfall has been reduced.
The findings could have implications for Colorado, where some forest landscapes are experiencing wholesale changes after the pine beetle epidemic. Both scientists said that, depending on the scale of changes in Colorado and the rest of the region affected by the outbreak, the changes in land cover could have an effect on summer rains by changing the amount of moisture available for convection in the lower atmosphere.
After reading about the Kilimanjaro research, I corresponded with two scientists who have studied how land-use changes can affect mesoscale weather, including Thomas Mölg (University of Innsbruck, Austria), who conducted the study at Kilimanjaro, and Roger Pielke, Sr., of the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES).
Since both researchers were kind enough to give detailed written answers to my email questions, I’m posting the Q & A rather than shortening or paraphrasing their quotes...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 22, 2012
SandBox Comments: Commentary Magazine "Contentions "NYTimes: War, Again?" "
Seth Mandel:
"The New York Times has a “news analysis”–usually code for “front-page, signed editorial”–lamenting the American public’s appetite for countering the Iranian regime’s attempts to build nuclear weapons. The conceit of the story is that this is a rerun of the war in Iraq, where the supposed existence of a nuclear weapons program spurred the West to form a coalition to depose Saddam Hussein.
“Echoes of the period leading up to the Iraq war in 2003 are unmistakable,” Scott Shane tells us, “igniting a familiar debate over whether journalists are overstating Iran’s progress toward a bomb.” And who is debating the veracity of reporters’ accounts? “Both the ombudsman of the Washington Post and the public editor of the New York Times in his online blog have scolded their newspapers since December for overstating the current evidence against Iran in particular headlines and stories.” So it is the New York Times accusing the New York Times of beating the drums of war. Let’s take a look at some of the other parallels.
“The intelligence on weapons of mass destruction, which was one of the Bush administration’s main rationales for the invasion, proved to be devastatingly wrong,” Shane writes. Not just wrong, but devastatingly wrong. I’ll leave it to others to check the Times style guide for the spectrum of wrongness, but “devastatingly wrong” must be among the wrongest you can be, in the Times’s opinion....
....In any event, the intelligence on Iran isn’t all that murky. What the Times is saying is that even when we can all agree on what the intelligence shows, we can’t trust it, because of Iraq. The Times is actually building a case here against military action even if Iran is about to achieve nuclear capability. As the article notes, however, that’s a view shared by some academics from Harvard and Columbia, but opposed by a majority of Americans...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The New York Times has a “news analysis”–usually code for “front-page, signed editorial”–lamenting the American public’s appetite for countering the Iranian regime’s attempts to build nuclear weapons. The conceit of the story is that this is a rerun of the war in Iraq, where the supposed existence of a nuclear weapons program spurred the West to form a coalition to depose Saddam Hussein.
“Echoes of the period leading up to the Iraq war in 2003 are unmistakable,” Scott Shane tells us, “igniting a familiar debate over whether journalists are overstating Iran’s progress toward a bomb.” And who is debating the veracity of reporters’ accounts? “Both the ombudsman of the Washington Post and the public editor of the New York Times in his online blog have scolded their newspapers since December for overstating the current evidence against Iran in particular headlines and stories.” So it is the New York Times accusing the New York Times of beating the drums of war. Let’s take a look at some of the other parallels.
“The intelligence on weapons of mass destruction, which was one of the Bush administration’s main rationales for the invasion, proved to be devastatingly wrong,” Shane writes. Not just wrong, but devastatingly wrong. I’ll leave it to others to check the Times style guide for the spectrum of wrongness, but “devastatingly wrong” must be among the wrongest you can be, in the Times’s opinion....
....In any event, the intelligence on Iran isn’t all that murky. What the Times is saying is that even when we can all agree on what the intelligence shows, we can’t trust it, because of Iraq. The Times is actually building a case here against military action even if Iran is about to achieve nuclear capability. As the article notes, however, that’s a view shared by some academics from Harvard and Columbia, but opposed by a majority of Americans...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "Syria shelling of Homs kills 2 Western journalists"
BASSEM MROUE:
"BEIRUT (AP) — A French photojournalist and a prominent American war correspondent working for a British newspaper were killed Wednesday by Syrian shelling of the opposition stronghold Homs as President Bashar Assad's regime escalated its attacks on rebel bases by strafing from helicopter gunships, activists said.
Weeks of withering barrages on the central city of Homs have failed to drive out opposition factions that include rebel soldiers who fled Assad's forces. Hundreds have died in the siege and the latest deaths further galvanized international pressure on Assad, who appears intent on widening his military crackdowns despite the risk of pushing Syria toward full-scale civil war.
"That's enough now, the regime must go," said French President Nicolas Sarkozy after his government confirmed the journalists' deaths.
French spokeswoman Valerie Pecresse identified those killed as French photojournalist Remi Ochlik and American reporter Marie Colvin, who was working for Britain's Sunday Times...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"BEIRUT (AP) — A French photojournalist and a prominent American war correspondent working for a British newspaper were killed Wednesday by Syrian shelling of the opposition stronghold Homs as President Bashar Assad's regime escalated its attacks on rebel bases by strafing from helicopter gunships, activists said.
Weeks of withering barrages on the central city of Homs have failed to drive out opposition factions that include rebel soldiers who fled Assad's forces. Hundreds have died in the siege and the latest deaths further galvanized international pressure on Assad, who appears intent on widening his military crackdowns despite the risk of pushing Syria toward full-scale civil war.
"That's enough now, the regime must go," said French President Nicolas Sarkozy after his government confirmed the journalists' deaths.
French spokeswoman Valerie Pecresse identified those killed as French photojournalist Remi Ochlik and American reporter Marie Colvin, who was working for Britain's Sunday Times...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Two more arrested following mistaken ID"
Chad Abraham:
"The tampering case against Simmons was dismissed at the request of the Aspen district attorney’s office Feb. 10 after police said further investigation pointed to a different suspect.
By then, however, Simmons had been charged with eight felonies related to the drugs police allegedly found. Those charges still stand, and Chief Deputy District Attorney Arnold Mordkin said in court Feb. 13 that the information that led to the second warrant remains “compelling.”
Simmons’ attorney, public defender Tina Fang, said in court the same day that the original warrant that got her client arrested “completely misidentified” him, a mistake that “raises issues of culpability and whether evidence will be suppressed....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The tampering case against Simmons was dismissed at the request of the Aspen district attorney’s office Feb. 10 after police said further investigation pointed to a different suspect.
By then, however, Simmons had been charged with eight felonies related to the drugs police allegedly found. Those charges still stand, and Chief Deputy District Attorney Arnold Mordkin said in court Feb. 13 that the information that led to the second warrant remains “compelling.”
Simmons’ attorney, public defender Tina Fang, said in court the same day that the original warrant that got her client arrested “completely misidentified” him, a mistake that “raises issues of culpability and whether evidence will be suppressed....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Aspen man pleads guilty for role in cocaine ring"
Aspen Daily:
"An Aspen man pleaded guilty Tuesday for his role in a local cocaine-trafficking ring and could be sentenced to nine months of house arrest.
Jack Fellner, 62, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine.
Fellner was arrested in May along with five other residents of the upper Roaring Fork Valley and three people from Los Angeles. They were accused of aiding a drug operation between Los Angeles and Aspen that federal agents said brought more than 200 kilos of cocaine to the valley over 15 years.
Charges against one Aspen woman were dropped, another California man remains a fugitive. The others have entered guilty pleas and have either been sentenced or are awaiting their fates.
As a result of the same federal investigation, former Aspen resident Montgomery Chitty, 60, was arrested Feb. 13 in Big Pine Key, Fla. Chitty is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"An Aspen man pleaded guilty Tuesday for his role in a local cocaine-trafficking ring and could be sentenced to nine months of house arrest.
Jack Fellner, 62, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine.
Fellner was arrested in May along with five other residents of the upper Roaring Fork Valley and three people from Los Angeles. They were accused of aiding a drug operation between Los Angeles and Aspen that federal agents said brought more than 200 kilos of cocaine to the valley over 15 years.
Charges against one Aspen woman were dropped, another California man remains a fugitive. The others have entered guilty pleas and have either been sentenced or are awaiting their fates.
As a result of the same federal investigation, former Aspen resident Montgomery Chitty, 60, was arrested Feb. 13 in Big Pine Key, Fla. Chitty is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Encana shifting focus to natural gas liquids"
John Colson:
"PARACHUTE, Colorado — One company drilling for natural gas in this region believes that it will continue to be a profitable venture, despite the low prices gas is bringing on the international market.
Doug Hock, spokesman for Encana Oil and Gas (USA), on Tuesday said the company plans to spend up to $130 million on operations in the Piceance Basin in 2010.
The company also has started work on a new office building in Parachute.
Much of the confidence behind those plans, Hock said, comes from the increasing value of what are known as “natural gas liquids,” or NGLs.
Natural gas liquids are found in the same deposits where oil and gas are located, said Hock.
“They are heavier than methane molecules and come out of the well as liquid, rather than gas. They include ethane, propane, butanes and pentanes,” he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"PARACHUTE, Colorado — One company drilling for natural gas in this region believes that it will continue to be a profitable venture, despite the low prices gas is bringing on the international market.
Doug Hock, spokesman for Encana Oil and Gas (USA), on Tuesday said the company plans to spend up to $130 million on operations in the Piceance Basin in 2010.
The company also has started work on a new office building in Parachute.
Much of the confidence behind those plans, Hock said, comes from the increasing value of what are known as “natural gas liquids,” or NGLs.
Natural gas liquids are found in the same deposits where oil and gas are located, said Hock.
“They are heavier than methane molecules and come out of the well as liquid, rather than gas. They include ethane, propane, butanes and pentanes,” he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Snowmass Sun "Should homeowners' association managers be licensed?"
Barbara Lucks:
"Since HOA boards are often noted for taking the lowest bid, this often puts the value and lendability of many people's homes in the hands of people with no skills except the ability to suck up to a board and cheap out an operation.
Tell the board anything they want to hear just to keep the account. This is apparently how a large Pitkin County employee housing complex found itself literally rotting in place with no funds for remediation. The board did not want to hear about increasing assessments to provide for future needs. Their residents had important bar tabs to pay.
Accountability to a licensing entity should provide some cause for pause before a manager nods enthusiastically as the board approves a totally untenable plan. I expect some pushback from boards, because increased professional standards and accountability to a license may dilute their power over the manager.
I also expect pushback from current managers, because they will have to spend a little time and money. How much? Well, if Colorado follows the lead of other states, the whole process should take about a month and $1,000, plus about $500 every two years for some continuing education.
Could that small investment go a long way in protecting the public? In my opinion, yes..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Since HOA boards are often noted for taking the lowest bid, this often puts the value and lendability of many people's homes in the hands of people with no skills except the ability to suck up to a board and cheap out an operation.
Tell the board anything they want to hear just to keep the account. This is apparently how a large Pitkin County employee housing complex found itself literally rotting in place with no funds for remediation. The board did not want to hear about increasing assessments to provide for future needs. Their residents had important bar tabs to pay.
Accountability to a licensing entity should provide some cause for pause before a manager nods enthusiastically as the board approves a totally untenable plan. I expect some pushback from boards, because increased professional standards and accountability to a license may dilute their power over the manager.
I also expect pushback from current managers, because they will have to spend a little time and money. How much? Well, if Colorado follows the lead of other states, the whole process should take about a month and $1,000, plus about $500 every two years for some continuing education.
Could that small investment go a long way in protecting the public? In my opinion, yes..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "Over the River set back to 2015"
Tracy Harmon:
"CANON CITY - New York artist Christo has opted to delay plans for Over the River by pushing back the exhibition a year to allow more time for planning and installation.
Christo's Over the River will be displayed in August 2015 instead of 2014. It will consist of the suspension of 5.9 miles of silvery translucent fabric panels above the Arkansas River in eight segments of a 42-mile stretch between Canon City and Salida.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management gave the project a green light after a lengthy environmental impact statement review.
"The thoroughness of the BLM's environmental review process resulted in the decision being issued several months later than originally planned. As a result, the BLM's final environmental impact statement authorized 28 months for installation, but only 24 months remained," said Steve Coffin, Over the River project team spokesman.
Since November, Christo and the Over The River team have been focused on the next phases of the project including development of the event management plan, which will detail the initial phases of the project including staging, anchor and anchor transition frame installation. The team also is working toward applying for a Chaffee County permit and will hear whether the Fremont County Commission will grant its permit in March.
The county commission is continuing its deliberations and and a final decision may come either March 13 or March 27, said Debbie Bell, the commission chairwoman...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"CANON CITY - New York artist Christo has opted to delay plans for Over the River by pushing back the exhibition a year to allow more time for planning and installation.
Christo's Over the River will be displayed in August 2015 instead of 2014. It will consist of the suspension of 5.9 miles of silvery translucent fabric panels above the Arkansas River in eight segments of a 42-mile stretch between Canon City and Salida.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management gave the project a green light after a lengthy environmental impact statement review.
"The thoroughness of the BLM's environmental review process resulted in the decision being issued several months later than originally planned. As a result, the BLM's final environmental impact statement authorized 28 months for installation, but only 24 months remained," said Steve Coffin, Over the River project team spokesman.
Since November, Christo and the Over The River team have been focused on the next phases of the project including development of the event management plan, which will detail the initial phases of the project including staging, anchor and anchor transition frame installation. The team also is working toward applying for a Chaffee County permit and will hear whether the Fremont County Commission will grant its permit in March.
The county commission is continuing its deliberations and and a final decision may come either March 13 or March 27, said Debbie Bell, the commission chairwoman...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning photo: Slovenia"
All credit: Bob Berwyn
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Slovenia may not be the biggest country in Europe, but it has a lot to offer, from alpine vistas and world heritage caves, to a tiny sliver of Adriatic coastline that is a melting pot of Venetian and Balkan culture — all within a few hours of major European capitals..." (Read more? Click title)
February 21, 2012
SandBox Comments: Durango Herald "Saudi Arabia names ambassador to Iraq"
Sameer N. Yacoub:
"Saudi Arabia is taking a major step toward thawing diplomatic relations with Iraq by posting an ambassador to Baghdad for the first time in more than two decades, Iraq's foreign minister said Tuesday.
Hoshyar Zebari said that the Saudi envoy to Jordan, Fahad Abdul Muhsin al-Zayd, will also act as a non-resident ambassador to Iraq. He will arrive in Baghdad soon to submit his credentials from Riyadh.
"We welcome this development which represents a good restart and a step to normalize the relations between the two countries," Zebari told The Associated Press.
Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry confirmed the appointment in a statement.
Relations between the Saudis' powerful Sunni kingdom and the Shiite-led government in Iraq have been frosty for years. Riyadh and other Gulf states cut diplomatic ties with Baghdad after Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in 1990...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Saudi Arabia is taking a major step toward thawing diplomatic relations with Iraq by posting an ambassador to Baghdad for the first time in more than two decades, Iraq's foreign minister said Tuesday.
Hoshyar Zebari said that the Saudi envoy to Jordan, Fahad Abdul Muhsin al-Zayd, will also act as a non-resident ambassador to Iraq. He will arrive in Baghdad soon to submit his credentials from Riyadh.
"We welcome this development which represents a good restart and a step to normalize the relations between the two countries," Zebari told The Associated Press.
Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry confirmed the appointment in a statement.
Relations between the Saudis' powerful Sunni kingdom and the Shiite-led government in Iraq have been frosty for years. Riyadh and other Gulf states cut diplomatic ties with Baghdad after Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in 1990...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Richard Cohen "The plight of Hamza Kashgari"
Richard Cohen:
"Keep your eye on Hamza Kashgari. He’s the 23-year-old former columnist for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Bilad newspaper who had the extremely bad judgment to tweet an imaginary conversation he was having with the Prophet Muhammad. In almost no time, he was running for his life, hopping a plane in Jeddah and hoping to reach New Zealand. In Malaysia, where he apparently had to change planes, he was held incommunicado until a private plane arrived from Saudi Arabia. He’s now back home, in jail and possibly facing a death sentence...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Keep your eye on Hamza Kashgari. He’s the 23-year-old former columnist for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Bilad newspaper who had the extremely bad judgment to tweet an imaginary conversation he was having with the Prophet Muhammad. In almost no time, he was running for his life, hopping a plane in Jeddah and hoping to reach New Zealand. In Malaysia, where he apparently had to change planes, he was held incommunicado until a private plane arrived from Saudi Arabia. He’s now back home, in jail and possibly facing a death sentence...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Iran will go nuclear without U.S. strength and leadership"
James Kellogg:
"...Short of a military strike, what can the U.S. do about Iran? We could start by assisting the rebels in Syria. With Bashar Assad in power, that nation is a key regional ally for Iran. That's why Iranian forces are aiding Syrian troops in their campaign against rebel forces. Overthrowing Assad and promoting a new opposition government would intensify Iran's isolation and demonstrate that America will not tolerate rogue regimes.
But it's not likely the Obama administration will act decisively with regard to Syria. Earlier this month, Russia and China opposed U.N. initiatives to remove Assad. Aiding the rebels would probably provoke a response from Russia.
It's like a standoff before a gunfight in the old American West. Russia and China are waiting to see if the United States will draw. So far, our government is backing down from a confrontation.
Out of answers, the Obama administration is assembling a group of “like-minded” nations led by Arab governments to coordinate a strategy against Assad. We're not even leading this wishy-washy endeavor. Iran's nuclear ambitions will remain unchecked.
This is a time in history when American strength is imperative. Military might, and the willingness to use it if necessary, is the only deterrent to rogue nations and their allies. The ancient Romans used to say, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” Once Iran goes nuclear, there will likely be no peace..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"...Short of a military strike, what can the U.S. do about Iran? We could start by assisting the rebels in Syria. With Bashar Assad in power, that nation is a key regional ally for Iran. That's why Iranian forces are aiding Syrian troops in their campaign against rebel forces. Overthrowing Assad and promoting a new opposition government would intensify Iran's isolation and demonstrate that America will not tolerate rogue regimes.
But it's not likely the Obama administration will act decisively with regard to Syria. Earlier this month, Russia and China opposed U.N. initiatives to remove Assad. Aiding the rebels would probably provoke a response from Russia.
It's like a standoff before a gunfight in the old American West. Russia and China are waiting to see if the United States will draw. So far, our government is backing down from a confrontation.
Out of answers, the Obama administration is assembling a group of “like-minded” nations led by Arab governments to coordinate a strategy against Assad. We're not even leading this wishy-washy endeavor. Iran's nuclear ambitions will remain unchecked.
This is a time in history when American strength is imperative. Military might, and the willingness to use it if necessary, is the only deterrent to rogue nations and their allies. The ancient Romans used to say, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” Once Iran goes nuclear, there will likely be no peace..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "New bridge could swing to the west"
By golly!
And they didn't have to 'wipe out and eliminate The Italian Underground or Sacred Grounds!!!!!
They didn't even have to call up God and ask Him to move the Colorado River!!!!
Isn't it great? All that huffin and puffin by the citizens with financial interests in Downtown Glenwood Springs and now they find out that they don't have to shutter the windows and leave town because the commons are finally getting a new bridge to handle the daily slog commute up valley.
A shout out of thanks goes to these very smart CDOT guys and their team of engineers. You're awesome!
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
And they didn't have to 'wipe out and eliminate The Italian Underground or Sacred Grounds!!!!!
They didn't even have to call up God and ask Him to move the Colorado River!!!!
Isn't it great? All that huffin and puffin by the citizens with financial interests in Downtown Glenwood Springs and now they find out that they don't have to shutter the windows and leave town because the commons are finally getting a new bridge to handle the daily slog commute up valley.
A shout out of thanks goes to these very smart CDOT guys and their team of engineers. You're awesome!
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Adventure Park expansion plan goes before Garfield County commissioners today"
(Update to this story on February 22, 2012:
"The Glenwood Springs Post Independent reports this morning that the request by Steve Beckley and his Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park received unanimous approval from the Garfield County Commissioners yesterday.............
"The Glenwood Springs Post Independent reports this morning that the request by Steve Beckley and his Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park received unanimous approval from the Garfield County Commissioners yesterday.............
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Denver Post "A Colorado Hot Springs soak is so much sweeter in private"
Douglas Brown:
"Hot springs? Yes, you swim laps at Glenwood Hot Springs every fall, and barrel down the long slide at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Nathrop at least once a year.
You soak in nature at Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, and one time, long ago, you waded au naturel at Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway.
When it comes to Colorado hot springs, you get it. You've done it.
Yes?
No, soaker.
Every time you hit the springs, you swim with strangers: kids doing cannonballs into the swimming pools, bleary-eyed partiers slowly melting into the water, couples pinned together in a corner. You close your eyes, you toil to just sink into yourself, but then a Nerf ball bonks you in the head...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Hot springs? Yes, you swim laps at Glenwood Hot Springs every fall, and barrel down the long slide at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Nathrop at least once a year.
You soak in nature at Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, and one time, long ago, you waded au naturel at Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway.
When it comes to Colorado hot springs, you get it. You've done it.
Yes?
No, soaker.
Every time you hit the springs, you swim with strangers: kids doing cannonballs into the swimming pools, bleary-eyed partiers slowly melting into the water, couples pinned together in a corner. You close your eyes, you toil to just sink into yourself, but then a Nerf ball bonks you in the head...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Motivation Truth "Governor Palin: Iron Dog!"
Now this, is very, very cool.
Click on the title and hit the links that allow you to GPS track and watch real time standings of the Iditarod.
Thank you, Sarah Palin! Good luck to Todd...too bad he's going to lose to Oak Creek, Colorado's Tom Thurston!
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Click on the title and hit the links that allow you to GPS track and watch real time standings of the Iditarod.
Thank you, Sarah Palin! Good luck to Todd...too bad he's going to lose to Oak Creek, Colorado's Tom Thurston!
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
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