Sterling Beard:
"The U.S. Senate candidate from Texas, Ted Cruz, hopes to become the next Marco Rubio.
Like Sen. Rubio (R-Fla.), Cruz is a Cuban-American running a Tea Party-fueled campaign against a well-known and better-funded Republican. Texas Lieutenant Gov. David Dewhurst (R) is the front-runner in this race....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 9, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: LA Times "Status of Afghan women threatens Hillary Clinton's legacy"
Paul Richter:
"WASHINGTON — In the final months of her tenure as secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton is fighting a long retreat on a cause close to her heart, and to her legacy — the status of Afghan women.
Clinton embraced the cause long before the first U.S. troops landed in the country, and as secretary of State she has brought Afghan women worldwide attention, political power and unbending promises of American support.
"We will not abandon you," she pledged.
But now, with U.S. officials laying plans to remove most troops in two years, the Afghan government and other institutions appear to be adjusting their positions on women's rights to accommodate conservative factions. Restrictions on women have made a comeback.
"Most of women's important achievements over the last decade are likely to be reversed," predicted a bleak report issued last month by the Afghan Human Rights and Democracy Organization, a nonprofit in Kabul funded by Western governments and private groups...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"WASHINGTON — In the final months of her tenure as secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton is fighting a long retreat on a cause close to her heart, and to her legacy — the status of Afghan women.
Clinton embraced the cause long before the first U.S. troops landed in the country, and as secretary of State she has brought Afghan women worldwide attention, political power and unbending promises of American support.
"We will not abandon you," she pledged.
But now, with U.S. officials laying plans to remove most troops in two years, the Afghan government and other institutions appear to be adjusting their positions on women's rights to accommodate conservative factions. Restrictions on women have made a comeback.
"Most of women's important achievements over the last decade are likely to be reversed," predicted a bleak report issued last month by the Afghan Human Rights and Democracy Organization, a nonprofit in Kabul funded by Western governments and private groups...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Townhall "Union Label Stuck to $137 Billion in Illinois State Debt"
Mike Shedlock:
"....(Chicago Tribune) "If Springfield won’t ask six-figure pension beneficiaries to pick up a portion of their health premiums, what are the odds that state legislators will confront their pension monster?
The state of Illinois admits to $83 billion in pension underfunding, a staggering weight on today's and tomorrow's taxpayers. Add to that the as yet uncalculated billions in unfunded pension obligations for city, county and other local governments.
A second, often overlooked time bomb merrily ticking for governments nationwide is the cost of health insurance for all those retirees. That number, too, is hard to gauge, because health care costs — like future investment returns — are unknowable. Yet governments typically don't put aside money for future health care, as they do for future pensions. The culture is to pay-as-you-go.
In Illinois, that means pay-as-you-go-even-more-broke. The Illinois Policy Institute, a right-leaning think tank, now is releasing 133 pages of frightening data. Beyond that $83 billion in unfunded pensions, state government alone faces an unfunded liability of more than $54 billion in retiree health liabilities over the next 30 years.
During the 2011 deliberations, two groups helped block retiree health reform: lawmakers of both parties who have state institutions (and thus state retirees) in their districts, and well-paid lobbyists whose prior careers in government entitle them to, yes, fat public pensions. If that happens this year, we want to read names.
By the last of the IPI's 133 pages, we conjured one question, then a follow-up:
How could Illinois pols do this to taxpayers?
And come November, will voters finally exact some consequences?..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"....(Chicago Tribune) "If Springfield won’t ask six-figure pension beneficiaries to pick up a portion of their health premiums, what are the odds that state legislators will confront their pension monster?
The state of Illinois admits to $83 billion in pension underfunding, a staggering weight on today's and tomorrow's taxpayers. Add to that the as yet uncalculated billions in unfunded pension obligations for city, county and other local governments.
A second, often overlooked time bomb merrily ticking for governments nationwide is the cost of health insurance for all those retirees. That number, too, is hard to gauge, because health care costs — like future investment returns — are unknowable. Yet governments typically don't put aside money for future health care, as they do for future pensions. The culture is to pay-as-you-go.
In Illinois, that means pay-as-you-go-even-more-broke. The Illinois Policy Institute, a right-leaning think tank, now is releasing 133 pages of frightening data. Beyond that $83 billion in unfunded pensions, state government alone faces an unfunded liability of more than $54 billion in retiree health liabilities over the next 30 years.
During the 2011 deliberations, two groups helped block retiree health reform: lawmakers of both parties who have state institutions (and thus state retirees) in their districts, and well-paid lobbyists whose prior careers in government entitle them to, yes, fat public pensions. If that happens this year, we want to read names.
By the last of the IPI's 133 pages, we conjured one question, then a follow-up:
How could Illinois pols do this to taxpayers?
And come November, will voters finally exact some consequences?..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill "Obama administration diverts $500M to IRS to implement healthcare reform law"
Sam Baker:
"The Obama administration is quietly diverting roughly $500 million to the IRS to help implement the president’s healthcare law.
The money is only part of the IRS’s total implementation spending, and it is being provided outside the normal appropriations process. The tax agency is responsible for several key provisions of the new law, including the unpopular individual mandate....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The Obama administration is quietly diverting roughly $500 million to the IRS to help implement the president’s healthcare law.
The money is only part of the IRS’s total implementation spending, and it is being provided outside the normal appropriations process. The tax agency is responsible for several key provisions of the new law, including the unpopular individual mandate....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Garfield commissioners sign joint oil shale resolution"
(See related stories here)
John Stroud:
"“This resolution has a very negative tone … which just takes away from the real issue,” he said.
The multi-county position statement supports the 2008 BLM decision, approved in the waning days of the Bush administration. A draft version of the resolution came out of a late March meeting of county commissioners from the affected counties.
It takes the BLM to task for what the affected view as listening more closely to “anti-oil-shale and pro-wilderness groups” in revising the oil shale plan. The revised EIS was required in a 2009 legal settlement between the BLM and 13 environmental groups that filed suit over the Bush-era plan.
“Are there some harsh words in here? Yes there are,” Commissioner Mike Samson said in supporting the resolution. “We're tired of things being done against us, so there is some resentment on our part.
“Maybe that's what it takes to get Congress's attention, and to take us serious,” he said. “Instead of fighting energy development at every step of the way, we're saying, please work with us.”
Commissioner Tom Jankvosky has been the lead representative for Garfield County, as an official cooperating agency, working with the BLM on the EIS revision. He said the BLM's preferred alternative wasn't even contemplated until late in the game last fall.
“There are some radical things stated here,” he said of the resolution. “But it's meant to say that if we can't have some reasonable process for oil shale research and development, then we set ourselves up for a rush to drill in the future. Then we will all be very drastically impacted.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
John Stroud:
"“This resolution has a very negative tone … which just takes away from the real issue,” he said.
The multi-county position statement supports the 2008 BLM decision, approved in the waning days of the Bush administration. A draft version of the resolution came out of a late March meeting of county commissioners from the affected counties.
It takes the BLM to task for what the affected view as listening more closely to “anti-oil-shale and pro-wilderness groups” in revising the oil shale plan. The revised EIS was required in a 2009 legal settlement between the BLM and 13 environmental groups that filed suit over the Bush-era plan.
“Are there some harsh words in here? Yes there are,” Commissioner Mike Samson said in supporting the resolution. “We're tired of things being done against us, so there is some resentment on our part.
“Maybe that's what it takes to get Congress's attention, and to take us serious,” he said. “Instead of fighting energy development at every step of the way, we're saying, please work with us.”
Commissioner Tom Jankvosky has been the lead representative for Garfield County, as an official cooperating agency, working with the BLM on the EIS revision. He said the BLM's preferred alternative wasn't even contemplated until late in the game last fall.
“There are some radical things stated here,” he said of the resolution. “But it's meant to say that if we can't have some reasonable process for oil shale research and development, then we set ourselves up for a rush to drill in the future. Then we will all be very drastically impacted.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Colorado Statesman "Legislators feeling a rare Kumbaya moment"
Peter Marcus:
"State lawmakers on Tuesday praised themselves for what they consider to be a bipartisan legislative session filled with compromise, while still bracing for what is expected to be bitter fights in the next month over providing discounted tuition rates to undocumented students and recognizing civil unions between same-sex couples.
Speaking before the Denver City Club, the four lawmakers — Sens. Ellen Roberts, R-Durango, and Mike Johnston, D-Denver, and Reps. Nancy Todd, D-Aurora, and Mark Waller, R-Colorado Springs — said the media was wrong at the beginning of the session in January to characterize the atmosphere under the Gold Dome as being highly divisive in an election year. The lawmakers noted significant compromise, especially over budget negotiations....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"State lawmakers on Tuesday praised themselves for what they consider to be a bipartisan legislative session filled with compromise, while still bracing for what is expected to be bitter fights in the next month over providing discounted tuition rates to undocumented students and recognizing civil unions between same-sex couples.
Speaking before the Denver City Club, the four lawmakers — Sens. Ellen Roberts, R-Durango, and Mike Johnston, D-Denver, and Reps. Nancy Todd, D-Aurora, and Mark Waller, R-Colorado Springs — said the media was wrong at the beginning of the session in January to characterize the atmosphere under the Gold Dome as being highly divisive in an election year. The lawmakers noted significant compromise, especially over budget negotiations....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Eagle County Times "Ask Colo. State House Speaker, Other Reps. to Pass E-Verify Bill – Jobs are priority in Colorado"
CAIR is absolutely not to be confused with CIRC.
Marty Lich:
"With Colorado holding steady with a 7.8 percent unemployment rate, it is imperative we eliminate any obstacles within our means to obtain jobs for our local law-abiding residents. E-Verify (HB 12-1309) has the ability to do that by removing those without legally employable work eligibility status from Colorado’s limited job pool. They compete directly in the jobs market with you and your children.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Marty Lich:
"With Colorado holding steady with a 7.8 percent unemployment rate, it is imperative we eliminate any obstacles within our means to obtain jobs for our local law-abiding residents. E-Verify (HB 12-1309) has the ability to do that by removing those without legally employable work eligibility status from Colorado’s limited job pool. They compete directly in the jobs market with you and your children.
Colorado’s continued forecast for jobs remains bleak, with the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute reporting on March 15, 2012 “The most recent economic forecasts from Colorado Legislative Council Staff project
high unemployment during the next several years,” adding; “Jobs remain key to solidify the recovery.”
high unemployment during the next several years,” adding; “Jobs remain key to solidify the recovery.”
Please take the time to read through NumbersUSA Special Alert, provided below, for their information is invaluable. We need your voice, through phone calls, faxes and emails.
Your dedication and steadfast involvement is making a positive difference for our families here, so we need to keep pressing on by once again contacting our elected representatives.
Thank you all for your continued efforts to aid in Colorado’s economic recovery.
Martha Lich
Colorado Alliance for Immigration Reformwww.CAIRCO.org
Colorado Alliance for Immigration Reformwww.CAIRCO.org
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ask Colo. State House Speaker, Other Reps. to Pass E-Verify Bill
Dear Colorado activist,
Unfortunately, the House Economic and Business Development Committee referred E-Verify legislation (HB 12-1309) to the House Agriculture Committee, where it may be defeated due to opposition from the Agriculture industry. However, your faxes and phone calls could make a difference. We need to try to save the bill, which would require all private employers in Colorado to use E-Verify, even if it is an uphill battle.
Please contact House Speaker Frank McNulty and the members of the Agriculture Committee to urge them to pass HB 12-1309. If your Rep. serves on the committee, you will find a fax to send him/her on your Action Board.
Contacting the House Speaker
Please call House Speaker Frank McNulty – 303-866-2346 – with the message below and check your Action Board for a fax to send him.
“I am a Colorado voter who is very disappointed that E-Verify legislation (HB 12-1309) was sent to the Agriculture Committee in an attempt to defeat it. Please ask Chairman Sonnenberg to send it to the floor for a vote.
Unemployed citizens and legal residents should not have to compete with illegal immigrants for jobs. This is an election year so please listen to voters, not Ag lobbyists!”
Contacting Agriculture Committee Members
Please call and email committee members, starting first with the Republicans highlighted in red, with the message below. If your Rep. serves on the committee, be sure to mention you are a constituent and look for a fax to send on your Action Board.
“I am a Colorado voter who is very disappointed that your Agriculture Committee may try to defeat E-Verify legislation (HB 12-1309). Voters want this legislation sent to the floor.
Unemployed citizens and legal residents should not have to compete with illegal immigrants for jobs. This is an election year so please listen to voters, not Ag lobbyists.”
Rep. Jerry Sonnenberg (Chairman) – 303-866-3706 ; jerry.sonnenberg.house@state.co.us
Rep. Randy Baumgardner (Vice Chair) – 303-866-2949 ; randy.baumgardner.house@state.co.us
Rep. J. Paul Brown – 303-866-2914 ; jpaul.brown.house@state.co.us
Rep. Marsha Looper – 303-866-2946 ; marsha.looper.house@state.co.us
Rep. Glenn Vaad – 303-866-2943 ; glenn.vaad.house@state.co.us
Rep. Don Coram – 303-866-2955 ; don.coram.house@state.co.us
Rep. Ray Scott – 303-866-3068 ; ray.scott.house@state.co.us
Rep. Wes McKinley – 303-866-2398 ; wes.mckinley.house@state.co.us
Rep. Edward Vigil – 303-866-2916 ; edward.vigil.house@state.co.us
Rep. Randy Fischer – 303-866-2917 ; randy.fischer.house@state.co.us
Rep. Su Ryden – 303-866-2942 ; su.ryden.house@state.co.us
Rep. Roger Wilson – 303-866-2945 ; roger.wilson.house@state.co.us
Rep. Matt Jones – 303-866-2920 ; repmattjones@gmail.com
SandBoxBlogs: Colorado News Agency "State’s voters won’t have a say over voter ID"
Debi Brazzale:
"Lawmakers killed a proposal today to let the state’s voters decide whether they should have to show a photo ID to cast a ballot in future elections.
House Bill 1111, sponsored by Reps. Libby Szabo, R-Arvada, and Ken Summers, R-Lakewood, and Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, would have sent the much-debated photo ID question to the voters in November.
Mitchell told the Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee that requiring a photo ID when voting would not encumber those who are exercising their right to vote and would safeguard the integrity of elections.
“Unlike a crime against your property, crimes of voter fraud don’t show up,” said Mitchell. “We are leaving the door open to the rampant opportunity of bad actors.”
“If they care enough to vote, they care enough to get an ID to vote,” he said....."
"Lawmakers killed a proposal today to let the state’s voters decide whether they should have to show a photo ID to cast a ballot in future elections.
House Bill 1111, sponsored by Reps. Libby Szabo, R-Arvada, and Ken Summers, R-Lakewood, and Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, would have sent the much-debated photo ID question to the voters in November.
Mitchell told the Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee that requiring a photo ID when voting would not encumber those who are exercising their right to vote and would safeguard the integrity of elections.
“Unlike a crime against your property, crimes of voter fraud don’t show up,” said Mitchell. “We are leaving the door open to the rampant opportunity of bad actors.”
“If they care enough to vote, they care enough to get an ID to vote,” he said....."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill "After killing SOPA, Internet activists take aim at a new House cybersecurity bill"
Meet CISPA. The 'Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act' (CISPA).
Without having read the bill itself, it sounds as though lawmakers have stepped up their game and isolated cyber controls and enforcement down to security threats such as hacking and cyber warfare. It sounds like a step in the right direction.
Why the broad language though?
Why is it that lawmakers have such a difficult time seeing that multiple enforcement mechanisms need to be placed on governing the internet and keeping users from harm? Hacking and cyber warfare are not the same modus operandi as internet crime and day-to-day law enforcement needs. Pirating is not the same beast as internet crimes such as impersonation, identity theft, stalking, harassment, etc. Not to mention the bottomless pit of issues with jurisdictions, crime tracking, reporting, interaction between federal, state and local enforcement.
There are so many needs when it comes to law enforcement and the internet.
Couldn't we simply agree to leave the broad and sweeping language on the cutting table and instead get basic laws in place now? Refine them as we come to understand more and our officers, agents and military learn what they need to do their jobs?
So simple. So very simple. Yet made to be so complex by political influences. Maybe the time has come for law enforcement and prosecutors to start pushing the boundaries of existing laws and broadening out interpretation of existing law.
Simply for the sake and wellness of the folks they serve and protect.
(Read the article? Learn about CISPA? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Without having read the bill itself, it sounds as though lawmakers have stepped up their game and isolated cyber controls and enforcement down to security threats such as hacking and cyber warfare. It sounds like a step in the right direction.
Why the broad language though?
Why is it that lawmakers have such a difficult time seeing that multiple enforcement mechanisms need to be placed on governing the internet and keeping users from harm? Hacking and cyber warfare are not the same modus operandi as internet crime and day-to-day law enforcement needs. Pirating is not the same beast as internet crimes such as impersonation, identity theft, stalking, harassment, etc. Not to mention the bottomless pit of issues with jurisdictions, crime tracking, reporting, interaction between federal, state and local enforcement.
There are so many needs when it comes to law enforcement and the internet.
Couldn't we simply agree to leave the broad and sweeping language on the cutting table and instead get basic laws in place now? Refine them as we come to understand more and our officers, agents and military learn what they need to do their jobs?
So simple. So very simple. Yet made to be so complex by political influences. Maybe the time has come for law enforcement and prosecutors to start pushing the boundaries of existing laws and broadening out interpretation of existing law.
Simply for the sake and wellness of the folks they serve and protect.
(Read the article? Learn about CISPA? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Hot Air Blog "Chaffetz: Why won’t the White House let us talk to Fast & Furious witness?"
Ed Morrissey:
"A duly constituted Congressional panel has requested to speak to a material witness in an ongoing investigation. The witness himself has indicated through his attorney that he’s willing to testify under oath. So what could possibly go wrong? Well, in this White House … plenty. The House Oversight Committee has requested that the Obama administration make former National Security staffer Kevin O’Reilly available for testimony to explain a series of e-mail exchanges in Operation Fast and Furious in order to determine just how far up the chain knowledge of the operation went in the Obama administration. The White House has refused to make him available, even though O’Reilly has already agreed to testify, and that has Rep. Jason Chaffetz angry...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A duly constituted Congressional panel has requested to speak to a material witness in an ongoing investigation. The witness himself has indicated through his attorney that he’s willing to testify under oath. So what could possibly go wrong? Well, in this White House … plenty. The House Oversight Committee has requested that the Obama administration make former National Security staffer Kevin O’Reilly available for testimony to explain a series of e-mail exchanges in Operation Fast and Furious in order to determine just how far up the chain knowledge of the operation went in the Obama administration. The White House has refused to make him available, even though O’Reilly has already agreed to testify, and that has Rep. Jason Chaffetz angry...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Dept of Defense "U.S., Afghan Forces Sign Special Operations Agreement"
Department of Defense:
"KABUL, Afghanistan, April 8, 2012 – An agreement signed here today begins a process for Afghan national security forces to take the lead on special operations in Afghanistan.
Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan, and Afghan Defense Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak signed a memorandum of understanding that means Afghan special operations units will lead the way in effectively targeting insurgents and ensures special operations will continue to be conducted with full respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, law and constitution, officials said.
Allen said the agreement marks a significant milestone in the transition process agreed upon at NATO’s November 2012 summit in Lisbon, Portugal. It continues advancement of sovereignty for the Afghan people and in the shared effort to formalize a long-term U.S.-Afghan strategic partnership, he added.
Along with an agreement signed last month that begins transitioning the Parwan detention facility to Afghan defense ministry control, today's memo “gives tangible expression” to the vision of a national community leaders council held in November and to the will of the Afghan people, Allen said.
"The Afghan special operations units have developed at extraordinary speed and are manned by courageous and capable operators," the general said. "In large measure, this MOU is a result of the professionalism of the national directorate of security and the Afghan national security forces. We also recognize the growing capacity of the Afghan judicial system, which will play a vital part not only in the implementation of this agreement, but also in the lives of Afghan citizens."
"Today, we are one important step closer to our shared goal of a secure and sovereign Afghanistan,” he continued. “Together, we will realize this vision."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"KABUL, Afghanistan, April 8, 2012 – An agreement signed here today begins a process for Afghan national security forces to take the lead on special operations in Afghanistan.
Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan, and Afghan Defense Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak signed a memorandum of understanding that means Afghan special operations units will lead the way in effectively targeting insurgents and ensures special operations will continue to be conducted with full respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, law and constitution, officials said.
Allen said the agreement marks a significant milestone in the transition process agreed upon at NATO’s November 2012 summit in Lisbon, Portugal. It continues advancement of sovereignty for the Afghan people and in the shared effort to formalize a long-term U.S.-Afghan strategic partnership, he added.
Along with an agreement signed last month that begins transitioning the Parwan detention facility to Afghan defense ministry control, today's memo “gives tangible expression” to the vision of a national community leaders council held in November and to the will of the Afghan people, Allen said.
"The Afghan special operations units have developed at extraordinary speed and are manned by courageous and capable operators," the general said. "In large measure, this MOU is a result of the professionalism of the national directorate of security and the Afghan national security forces. We also recognize the growing capacity of the Afghan judicial system, which will play a vital part not only in the implementation of this agreement, but also in the lives of Afghan citizens."
"Today, we are one important step closer to our shared goal of a secure and sovereign Afghanistan,” he continued. “Together, we will realize this vision."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "A scar upon Graceland"
Johnny Boyd:
"The purchase of a downtown building doesn’t automatically carry a guarantee that a profit will be turned. Something should be returned to the community in exchange for the ability to cash in. If you want to play, you have to pay. Want to subsidize the rents so that businesses that are not national corporations can open? Now you’re talking. How about including an equal amount of employee housing with your penthouse party pad? If a 5,000-square-foot penthouse is the driving force to finance the operation, could you construct five 1,000-square-foot lodge rooms under it?
It’s not that difficult to come up with ways to benefit the community that gives you a chance to profit. It might not be the huge profit that was expected, but making a comfortable living should be more than enough. People don’t have to make an obscene profit....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The purchase of a downtown building doesn’t automatically carry a guarantee that a profit will be turned. Something should be returned to the community in exchange for the ability to cash in. If you want to play, you have to pay. Want to subsidize the rents so that businesses that are not national corporations can open? Now you’re talking. How about including an equal amount of employee housing with your penthouse party pad? If a 5,000-square-foot penthouse is the driving force to finance the operation, could you construct five 1,000-square-foot lodge rooms under it?
It’s not that difficult to come up with ways to benefit the community that gives you a chance to profit. It might not be the huge profit that was expected, but making a comfortable living should be more than enough. People don’t have to make an obscene profit....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times/Paul Anderson "Children of the river"
Wonderful column from Paul Anderson this week. Up on the Aspen Times.
Paul Anderson:
"Weston Boyles grew up on the banks of the Roaring Fork River. His family home is on a river bend east of Aspen, where kayaks are stacked like cordwood within a stone's throw of the water. Weston has known the pulse of the river for all his 25 years.
Taking a cue from his father, Edgar Boyles, a cameraman and filmmaker who often works in collaboration with his wife, Elizabeth, Weston has explored contemporary issues through the camera lens, first his father's and now his own.
At 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Weston Boyles' film documentary will debut during the Aspen Shortsfest at the Wheeler Opera House. His poignant topic is the plight of a besieged river — not the Roaring Fork but the Baker River in the Patagonia region of Chile..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Paul Anderson:
"Weston Boyles grew up on the banks of the Roaring Fork River. His family home is on a river bend east of Aspen, where kayaks are stacked like cordwood within a stone's throw of the water. Weston has known the pulse of the river for all his 25 years.
Taking a cue from his father, Edgar Boyles, a cameraman and filmmaker who often works in collaboration with his wife, Elizabeth, Weston has explored contemporary issues through the camera lens, first his father's and now his own.
At 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Weston Boyles' film documentary will debut during the Aspen Shortsfest at the Wheeler Opera House. His poignant topic is the plight of a besieged river — not the Roaring Fork but the Baker River in the Patagonia region of Chile..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "FERC comes to town "
Lordy, lordy...there are so many Feds hanging around Aspen lately...
Andrew Travers:
"Representatives from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will be in town Tuesday to get a first-hand look at planning for the city’s new hydro power facility on Castle Creek...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Andrew Travers:
"Representatives from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will be in town Tuesday to get a first-hand look at planning for the city’s new hydro power facility on Castle Creek...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "Guest opinion: City cranks up spin for hydroelectric project"
(4/10/2012: See the firing back volley from the City of Aspen's Mitzi Rapkin to Gardner-Smith's report here (and) read how Gardner-Smith handled the "correction needed" here. Excellent job and coverage by Brent Gardner-Smith via the Aspen Daily News)
(4/9/2012: Interestingly enough...see related coverage over on the Aspen Daily that came out this morning. Turns out that once again the City of Aspen has 'misrepresented' their information and now needs to retract. Hmmm....sound anything like PitCo commissioners projections on how much the Droste Property was supposed to cost?)
Maurice Emmer:
"..Or might you consider alternatives? Before spending more on the Castle Creek Energy Center, its financial viability should be proven, especially compared with alternatives. The projected generation cost of 10 to 11 cents per kilowatt-hour (bound to go up), above the market rate for clean electricity and not reflecting risks, will not be competitive.
The city's own numbers offer a solution: Taking the city's word today, half the pipeline cost (half of $3.2 million) isn't part of this project, so the total cost will be $8.9 million (without further overruns). The $3.7 million not spent yet could be avoided, and we could recover, say, $750,000 for the $1.5 million turbine the city has already bought. This would save $4.45 million or 50 percent of the total project cost. Why double down on a bad bet instead of cutting the inevitable loss?
Yes, the city will have to pay the $5.5 million of bonds. Ignoring possible savings of $4.45 million by continuing the Castle Creek Energy Center project will not avoid the obligation to pay the bonds; it will only double the cost of a boondoggle that cannot produce clean electricity competitively. How about we stop the project and use the $4.45 million savings to pay the lion's share of the bond debt?
The article admits that the city “has made mistakes.” You bet. The mistake is the Castle Creek Energy Center. The residents should not make the mistake of permitting the madness to continue...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
(4/9/2012: Interestingly enough...see related coverage over on the Aspen Daily that came out this morning. Turns out that once again the City of Aspen has 'misrepresented' their information and now needs to retract. Hmmm....sound anything like PitCo commissioners projections on how much the Droste Property was supposed to cost?)
Maurice Emmer:
"..Or might you consider alternatives? Before spending more on the Castle Creek Energy Center, its financial viability should be proven, especially compared with alternatives. The projected generation cost of 10 to 11 cents per kilowatt-hour (bound to go up), above the market rate for clean electricity and not reflecting risks, will not be competitive.
The city's own numbers offer a solution: Taking the city's word today, half the pipeline cost (half of $3.2 million) isn't part of this project, so the total cost will be $8.9 million (without further overruns). The $3.7 million not spent yet could be avoided, and we could recover, say, $750,000 for the $1.5 million turbine the city has already bought. This would save $4.45 million or 50 percent of the total project cost. Why double down on a bad bet instead of cutting the inevitable loss?
Yes, the city will have to pay the $5.5 million of bonds. Ignoring possible savings of $4.45 million by continuing the Castle Creek Energy Center project will not avoid the obligation to pay the bonds; it will only double the cost of a boondoggle that cannot produce clean electricity competitively. How about we stop the project and use the $4.45 million savings to pay the lion's share of the bond debt?
The article admits that the city “has made mistakes.” You bet. The mistake is the Castle Creek Energy Center. The residents should not make the mistake of permitting the madness to continue...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KDNK "GarCo Commissioners Postpone Disputed Compressor"
(See original story and public commentary here (and) Marianne Ackerman's "shame on CMC" story with public commentary here)
Yes, your comments on observations from the BOCC meeting itself, your comments observing that the PI appears to once again be sheltering public news coverage of a crony that happens to be in a negative public light and your comments praising the student group and CMC Trustees for their handling of the compressor station issue have all been received here on SandBox.
The reason a post on the commissioner meeting hasn't been put up yet is because 'Nanny' was giving the PI a chance to step up. The only one who covered the meeting in depth was KDNK. An organization that is never afraid to publicly voice controversial issues and does so (always) with balance, fairness and journalistic integrity.
Since everything else of 'hot worth' from that same meeting has been covered by the PI already and without completely buying in to the 'conspiracy theory' portions of your avatar comments...'Nanny' thinks you're probably right. 'Somebody' must be upset out there and is trying to once again pass their bad behavior off on to your/our 'anonymous' voices.
After thinking over what the next best step is (and hopefully laying the issue y'all have to rest at the same time...) on 'how' to spin/shock-jock/ignore the behavior in question and still give your voices an outlet; 'Nanny' has come right back to where she always ends up:
With that said, here are her thoughts on where the compressor issue is at:
Kudos!!! To the kids.
The group of young people led by Alex Curtis have the ethical and proper approach. Far better way of handling things than to bully up in the local newspaper writing letters of "shame" and throwing ones weight around. It doesn't matter who the parents of these young people are (or) who is publicly/socially influencing them to stand up.
What matters is that they are. And doing so in a class act manner. These young people we all can be proud of, whether we agree with them or not.
Yes, it is nice to have also received a now on public record statement from Jim Nieslanik that he did indeed know (months in advance, complete with a set of his own drawings) that the compressor station was coming. Sort of like all those noxious weeds that donated land is filled with not ever receiving a neighborly hand in control, Nieslanik sounds like he just may understand now that he and his family are no different, no more special than anyone else.
That if he wants to be kept abreast of what is going on in the front yard, he needs to step out into that yard on his own volition. Source Gas or anyone else doesn't owe him their time and consideration simply because of his longevity in the community. And keep the preaching and righteous indignation to himself. Or express it at a public meeting in the proper format so we can all get him on permanent record.
'Nanny' comes back to her original thought on the issue itself. A simple thought that she feels speaks volumes.
Deal with a bully...then ignore a bully.
And trust in our valued, stellar reputed CMC Trustees to continue making good decisions that are in the best interests of CMC and the community.
As with the "shame" letter from Ackerman coverage, 'Nanny' feels the feeding frenzy in commentary needs to remain blocked. For now. Let's give the commissioners a chance since they just got on board and continue trusting in our elected CMC Trustees.
To listen to KDNK coverage click title (or) click here.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Yes, your comments on observations from the BOCC meeting itself, your comments observing that the PI appears to once again be sheltering public news coverage of a crony that happens to be in a negative public light and your comments praising the student group and CMC Trustees for their handling of the compressor station issue have all been received here on SandBox.
The reason a post on the commissioner meeting hasn't been put up yet is because 'Nanny' was giving the PI a chance to step up. The only one who covered the meeting in depth was KDNK. An organization that is never afraid to publicly voice controversial issues and does so (always) with balance, fairness and journalistic integrity.
Since everything else of 'hot worth' from that same meeting has been covered by the PI already and without completely buying in to the 'conspiracy theory' portions of your avatar comments...'Nanny' thinks you're probably right. 'Somebody' must be upset out there and is trying to once again pass their bad behavior off on to your/our 'anonymous' voices.
After thinking over what the next best step is (and hopefully laying the issue y'all have to rest at the same time...) on 'how' to spin/shock-jock/ignore the behavior in question and still give your voices an outlet; 'Nanny' has come right back to where she always ends up:
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
With that said, here are her thoughts on where the compressor issue is at:
Kudos!!! To the kids.
The group of young people led by Alex Curtis have the ethical and proper approach. Far better way of handling things than to bully up in the local newspaper writing letters of "shame" and throwing ones weight around. It doesn't matter who the parents of these young people are (or) who is publicly/socially influencing them to stand up.
What matters is that they are. And doing so in a class act manner. These young people we all can be proud of, whether we agree with them or not.
Yes, it is nice to have also received a now on public record statement from Jim Nieslanik that he did indeed know (months in advance, complete with a set of his own drawings) that the compressor station was coming. Sort of like all those noxious weeds that donated land is filled with not ever receiving a neighborly hand in control, Nieslanik sounds like he just may understand now that he and his family are no different, no more special than anyone else.
That if he wants to be kept abreast of what is going on in the front yard, he needs to step out into that yard on his own volition. Source Gas or anyone else doesn't owe him their time and consideration simply because of his longevity in the community. And keep the preaching and righteous indignation to himself. Or express it at a public meeting in the proper format so we can all get him on permanent record.
'Nanny' comes back to her original thought on the issue itself. A simple thought that she feels speaks volumes.
Deal with a bully...then ignore a bully.
And trust in our valued, stellar reputed CMC Trustees to continue making good decisions that are in the best interests of CMC and the community.
As with the "shame" letter from Ackerman coverage, 'Nanny' feels the feeding frenzy in commentary needs to remain blocked. For now. Let's give the commissioners a chance since they just got on board and continue trusting in our elected CMC Trustees.
To listen to KDNK coverage click title (or) click here.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Oil shale resolution takes dig at government"
(See lesser coverage of the same story by GSPI here)
Gary Harmon:
"Garfield County will lead the way among several oil shale counties in three western states when its County Commission today debates a resolution lambasting the federal government for its handling of oil shale.
Garfield and Rio Blanco counties are home to the richest deposits of oil shale on the globe, and as such, Garfield County Commissioner John Martin said, “We’re probably the first ones out” with the resolution.
Environmental organizations, however, prepared a fact sheet questioning the economic viability and water requirements cited in the resolution and questioned whether the resolution was drafted by the industry.
The resolution criticizes the U.S. Department of Energy for abdicating “the responsibility Congress placed upon it to defend and uphold a viable oil shale energy program” and hammers at the Bureau of Land Management as being steered “by a host of anti-oil shale, pro-wilderness groups.”
One thing that rankles officials from the oil shale counties is an agreement reached between environmental groups and the Interior Department on lawsuits settled under President Barack Obama after being filed against the department under President George W. Bush....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Gary Harmon:
"Garfield County will lead the way among several oil shale counties in three western states when its County Commission today debates a resolution lambasting the federal government for its handling of oil shale.
Garfield and Rio Blanco counties are home to the richest deposits of oil shale on the globe, and as such, Garfield County Commissioner John Martin said, “We’re probably the first ones out” with the resolution.
Environmental organizations, however, prepared a fact sheet questioning the economic viability and water requirements cited in the resolution and questioned whether the resolution was drafted by the industry.
The resolution criticizes the U.S. Department of Energy for abdicating “the responsibility Congress placed upon it to defend and uphold a viable oil shale energy program” and hammers at the Bureau of Land Management as being steered “by a host of anti-oil shale, pro-wilderness groups.”
One thing that rankles officials from the oil shale counties is an agreement reached between environmental groups and the Interior Department on lawsuits settled under President Barack Obama after being filed against the department under President George W. Bush....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "Scott Jones: Negative impacts of expanding Wilderness."
Scott Jones:
"Senator Udall's office is currently seeking input on a proposal to expand designated Wilderness in Colorado by 235,000 acres. Federal lands designated as Wilderness are the most restricted, least available public lands in the country, as these areas are supposed to reflect the lands in an “untrammeled by man” way. Over 15 percent of the Colorado mountains are currently managed as Wilderness but account for less than 4 percent of visits to the region. Most people will never set foot in a federally designated Wilderness area, as there is no access for most users of public lands. Mechanized travel is strictly forbidden in designated Wilderness areas, and until recently motor vehicles could not be used for emergency response in Wilderness.
The closure of public lands to 96 percent of users has drastic economic impacts to communities, as most Colorado communities are heavily reliant on tourism revenues. A recent Utah State study found that counties with significant Wilderness designations average $1,446 less in per household income, $37,500 less in average payroll and generated $92,900 less in tax revenue than similarly located counties. The negative economic impacts of Wilderness restrictions caused the Utah Legislature to adopt a resolution requesting the federal government not to designate additional Wilderness due to the negative economic impacts. Wilderness limitations result in thousands of dollars in lost salary to families and tens of thousands in lost payroll and revenue for local communities to maintain roads and operate schools...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Senator Udall's office is currently seeking input on a proposal to expand designated Wilderness in Colorado by 235,000 acres. Federal lands designated as Wilderness are the most restricted, least available public lands in the country, as these areas are supposed to reflect the lands in an “untrammeled by man” way. Over 15 percent of the Colorado mountains are currently managed as Wilderness but account for less than 4 percent of visits to the region. Most people will never set foot in a federally designated Wilderness area, as there is no access for most users of public lands. Mechanized travel is strictly forbidden in designated Wilderness areas, and until recently motor vehicles could not be used for emergency response in Wilderness.
The closure of public lands to 96 percent of users has drastic economic impacts to communities, as most Colorado communities are heavily reliant on tourism revenues. A recent Utah State study found that counties with significant Wilderness designations average $1,446 less in per household income, $37,500 less in average payroll and generated $92,900 less in tax revenue than similarly located counties. The negative economic impacts of Wilderness restrictions caused the Utah Legislature to adopt a resolution requesting the federal government not to designate additional Wilderness due to the negative economic impacts. Wilderness limitations result in thousands of dollars in lost salary to families and tens of thousands in lost payroll and revenue for local communities to maintain roads and operate schools...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Citizen Telegram "Vegetable buckshot: Eagle Springs Organic takes aim at Rifle"
Nelson Harvey:
"To a first-time visitor, the mesa west of Silt where Eagle Springs Organic sits can seem like an unlikely place for a sustainable agriculture operation. To get there, you follow a dirt road that winds past an electrical transfer station and several gas drilling rigs.
Unexpectedly, the road dead-ends in front of a tremendous greenhouse, the peaks and valleys of its roof extending for more than an acre into the distance. It is surrounded by hundreds more acres of pastureland and outdoor growing space.
Despite its unlikely location, this certified organic farm has become one of the most influential players in the region's budding local food movement since it was founded in 2010. And now, owner Ken Sack, a wealthy former pharmacist and insurance executive from Florida, is looking to Rifle as the home for his farm's next project...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"To a first-time visitor, the mesa west of Silt where Eagle Springs Organic sits can seem like an unlikely place for a sustainable agriculture operation. To get there, you follow a dirt road that winds past an electrical transfer station and several gas drilling rigs.
Unexpectedly, the road dead-ends in front of a tremendous greenhouse, the peaks and valleys of its roof extending for more than an acre into the distance. It is surrounded by hundreds more acres of pastureland and outdoor growing space.
Despite its unlikely location, this certified organic farm has become one of the most influential players in the region's budding local food movement since it was founded in 2010. And now, owner Ken Sack, a wealthy former pharmacist and insurance executive from Florida, is looking to Rifle as the home for his farm's next project...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Fruita girl goes from wheelchair to riding waves"
An amazing story and a very special organization.
Dennis Webb:
"Josie DeHart is a girl from Fruita who lives her life in a wheelchair.
Tom Brady is a superstar New England Patriots quarterback still feeling the sting of a recent Super Bowl defeat.
But in late February, they were just two more vacationers working on their surfing skills on a beach in Costa Rica.
Josie and her parents, Nina and Jimmy, went to a surfing camp for children with disabilities and their families.
The camp is offered by an Aspen-based nonprofit organization, the Ocean Healing Group.
While they were there, Brady and Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker happened to stop by for a visit.
Brady’s wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, has a home near the beach retreat where the camp is operated.
Interaction with an NFL great isn’t a normal part of the camp’s activities, but Ocean Healing founder Frank Bauer wouldn’t be surprised to see more appearances by Brady.
“He will likely start coming to more of them,” Bauer said. “This is the first time that we were having an adaptive camp the same time he was in town.”
Their encounter with Brady and Welker was the icing on the cake for the DeHarts, who are full of praise for the opportunity that the Ocean Healing Group offers. They enjoyed not only snorkeling, but jungle zip-lining, deep-sea fishing, fine dining, bonfires and more......
.....Bauer said he sees Brady frequently in Costa Rica but doesn’t usually talk football with him, recognizing that Brady and his wife go there as an escape from such things. So, Bauer didn’t ask him about the Super Bowl loss.
Bauer added, “I was going to go Tebow right there in front of him, but I thought that might go over bad.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Dennis Webb:
"Josie DeHart is a girl from Fruita who lives her life in a wheelchair.
Tom Brady is a superstar New England Patriots quarterback still feeling the sting of a recent Super Bowl defeat.
But in late February, they were just two more vacationers working on their surfing skills on a beach in Costa Rica.
Josie and her parents, Nina and Jimmy, went to a surfing camp for children with disabilities and their families.
The camp is offered by an Aspen-based nonprofit organization, the Ocean Healing Group.
While they were there, Brady and Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker happened to stop by for a visit.
Brady’s wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, has a home near the beach retreat where the camp is operated.
Interaction with an NFL great isn’t a normal part of the camp’s activities, but Ocean Healing founder Frank Bauer wouldn’t be surprised to see more appearances by Brady.
“He will likely start coming to more of them,” Bauer said. “This is the first time that we were having an adaptive camp the same time he was in town.”
Their encounter with Brady and Welker was the icing on the cake for the DeHarts, who are full of praise for the opportunity that the Ocean Healing Group offers. They enjoyed not only snorkeling, but jungle zip-lining, deep-sea fishing, fine dining, bonfires and more......
.....Bauer said he sees Brady frequently in Costa Rica but doesn’t usually talk football with him, recognizing that Brady and his wife go there as an escape from such things. So, Bauer didn’t ask him about the Super Bowl loss.
Bauer added, “I was going to go Tebow right there in front of him, but I thought that might go over bad.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning Photo: Easter Sunday"
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — I was determined to wake up in time to catch a few shots of the post-full moon setting over the Gore Range this weekend, and had ambitious plans to visit a new spot for the occasion. But when I woke up Sunday morning, the moon was already hanging low over Mt. Royal. I skipped coffee, jumped into my jeans and headed to my standby spot along Dillon Dam Road, where I have an idea of what to expect in terms of lighting and reflections. I was hoping for a bit more color in the sky, but it was a gloriously still morning. I would have been happy to be out there, even without a camera..."
"SUMMIT COUNTY — I was determined to wake up in time to catch a few shots of the post-full moon setting over the Gore Range this weekend, and had ambitious plans to visit a new spot for the occasion. But when I woke up Sunday morning, the moon was already hanging low over Mt. Royal. I skipped coffee, jumped into my jeans and headed to my standby spot along Dillon Dam Road, where I have an idea of what to expect in terms of lighting and reflections. I was hoping for a bit more color in the sky, but it was a gloriously still morning. I would have been happy to be out there, even without a camera..."
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