Brian Darling:
"Conservatives need to do a better job of explaining how they would lower gas prices. More drilling is a great piece of the pie, but there needs to be more. Governor Sarah Palin and Eric Bolling, Fox News host of of The Five, have put together a comprehensive plan to lower gas prices and they mapped out the details in the video below:
April 20, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill "Ballot Box: "200 days to go before the election" "
Josh Lederman:
"Polling shows Romney and Obama locked in a tight race, and political handicappers expect it to go down to the wire all the way through to November.
Jobs and the economy continue to dominate the agenda as both candidates present their ideas to voters. Speaking at a shuttered drywall factory on Thursday in Lorain, Ohio, Romney said he expected Obama to continue to attack his record as a successful businessman.
"You will see him attack success day in and day out. And one thing you know is if you attack success, you're going to have less of it,” Romney said. “This is a president who is more intent on punishing people than getting people back to work.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Polling shows Romney and Obama locked in a tight race, and political handicappers expect it to go down to the wire all the way through to November.
Jobs and the economy continue to dominate the agenda as both candidates present their ideas to voters. Speaking at a shuttered drywall factory on Thursday in Lorain, Ohio, Romney said he expected Obama to continue to attack his record as a successful businessman.
"You will see him attack success day in and day out. And one thing you know is if you attack success, you're going to have less of it,” Romney said. “This is a president who is more intent on punishing people than getting people back to work.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Right Scoop "Tapper grills Carney on Obama’s non-stop campaign travel mixed with “official” business"
Dan Cleary:
"Jake Tapper did a great job putting Jay Carney on the spot today, asking him a pointed question about Obama’s seemingly non-stop campaign travel, the fact that most of his trips just happen to be in battleground states, and whether this means taxpayers are basically footing the bill for Obama’s campaign.
Of course, Carney denied the whole premise of the question. I guess we’re supposed to file all those campaign stops under “Official Presidential Business”, pretend the White House isn’t paying attention to what is or isn’t a battleground state, and take Carney at his word that the Obama campaign is going “by the book” when it comes to funding all these trips.
In other words, he thinks we all just fell off the turnip truck...." (Watch video? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Jake Tapper did a great job putting Jay Carney on the spot today, asking him a pointed question about Obama’s seemingly non-stop campaign travel, the fact that most of his trips just happen to be in battleground states, and whether this means taxpayers are basically footing the bill for Obama’s campaign.
Of course, Carney denied the whole premise of the question. I guess we’re supposed to file all those campaign stops under “Official Presidential Business”, pretend the White House isn’t paying attention to what is or isn’t a battleground state, and take Carney at his word that the Obama campaign is going “by the book” when it comes to funding all these trips.
In other words, he thinks we all just fell off the turnip truck...." (Watch video? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Hot Air Blog "Boehner: The president checked out last Labor Day"
Tina Korbe:
"In a pre-recorded interview for CBS’ “This Morning,” House Speaker John Boehner called out the president for his incessant campaigning and confirmed that the chief occupant of the White House has lately made no effort whatsoever to work with Congress on any of the key issues that face the country.
Boehner particularly noted the peculiarity of the president’s pivot from an all-consuming focus last summer on arriving at a “Grand Bargain” on the debt and deficit to his present focus on a tax measure that would barely affect the deficit at all...." (Read more? Click title)
"In a pre-recorded interview for CBS’ “This Morning,” House Speaker John Boehner called out the president for his incessant campaigning and confirmed that the chief occupant of the White House has lately made no effort whatsoever to work with Congress on any of the key issues that face the country.
Boehner particularly noted the peculiarity of the president’s pivot from an all-consuming focus last summer on arriving at a “Grand Bargain” on the debt and deficit to his present focus on a tax measure that would barely affect the deficit at all...." (Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: SkyHi Daily "William Hamilton: The desperate housewives of the swing states"
William Hamilton:
"Political pollster Dr. Frank Luntz finds the best predictors of how women will vote are: family status and employment status. Of lesser importance in crafting an appeal to women voters are: age, education, and income.
Dr. Luntz says, “Younger women lean heavily toward the Democrats, while older women split their votes more evenly between the two parties. Married women over thirty-five with children at home slightly favor the GOP, while single women, including those who are divorced or widowed, are solidly in the Democratic fold.”
According to USA Today, the outcome of the presidential race will hinge on the swing states of: Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
In all states, however, Mr. Romney would be well-advised to extol the virtues of motherhood, for both stay-at-home mothers and for working-mothers as well. Any male who has had to take over from his wife learns full-well that being a housewife and mother is not just any job — it is a really difficult and exhausting job. Mr. Romney would be well-advised to seek the votes of older women who are mothers and grandmothers and talk to them about the creation of good, steady jobs and stress how the American family is at the heart of America's greatness. Or, whatever's left of it.
President Obama would be well-advised to go after young women who are single, divorced, or widowed. That demographic cohort is more likely to respond to promises of more social services paid for by someone else. Here, President Obama should have an advantage because, as the president was once described by Vice President Joe Biden: "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy.”
Rich Galen, the ever-wise political pundit, reminds us the presidential race is not truly a national race but, instead, 50 individual state races for 535 Electoral College votes plus one race for the three Electoral College votes of the District of Columbia for a total of: 538. Get 270 Electoral College votes and you win..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Political pollster Dr. Frank Luntz finds the best predictors of how women will vote are: family status and employment status. Of lesser importance in crafting an appeal to women voters are: age, education, and income.
Dr. Luntz says, “Younger women lean heavily toward the Democrats, while older women split their votes more evenly between the two parties. Married women over thirty-five with children at home slightly favor the GOP, while single women, including those who are divorced or widowed, are solidly in the Democratic fold.”
According to USA Today, the outcome of the presidential race will hinge on the swing states of: Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
In all states, however, Mr. Romney would be well-advised to extol the virtues of motherhood, for both stay-at-home mothers and for working-mothers as well. Any male who has had to take over from his wife learns full-well that being a housewife and mother is not just any job — it is a really difficult and exhausting job. Mr. Romney would be well-advised to seek the votes of older women who are mothers and grandmothers and talk to them about the creation of good, steady jobs and stress how the American family is at the heart of America's greatness. Or, whatever's left of it.
President Obama would be well-advised to go after young women who are single, divorced, or widowed. That demographic cohort is more likely to respond to promises of more social services paid for by someone else. Here, President Obama should have an advantage because, as the president was once described by Vice President Joe Biden: "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy.”
Rich Galen, the ever-wise political pundit, reminds us the presidential race is not truly a national race but, instead, 50 individual state races for 535 Electoral College votes plus one race for the three Electoral College votes of the District of Columbia for a total of: 538. Get 270 Electoral College votes and you win..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Mountain Mail "Election officials ask judge to throw out lawsuit "
Are you starting to grow skeptical of all this hard pushing to quash Marilyn Marks voice?
My goodness, says, 'SandBox Nanny'.
One would think that the municipalities, clerks and elected officials that are not embracing the opportunity for transparency.....just might be 'hiding something'. Lordy, lordy.
Contact Marilyn directly at the Citizen Center. Get informed. Of just the facts.
"DENVER – Election officials in Chaffee County and five other counties are asking a judge to throw out a lawsuit alleging the officials might violate voters’ right to anonymous, untraceable ballots.
My goodness, says, 'SandBox Nanny'.
One would think that the municipalities, clerks and elected officials that are not embracing the opportunity for transparency.....just might be 'hiding something'. Lordy, lordy.
Contact Marilyn directly at the Citizen Center. Get informed. Of just the facts.
"DENVER – Election officials in Chaffee County and five other counties are asking a judge to throw out a lawsuit alleging the officials might violate voters’ right to anonymous, untraceable ballots.
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "Pitkin County judge removes herself from drunken-driving case"
Now, after a morning in our law enforcement and military section, of fair and balanced reports from other media, let's drop in on the crime reporting up on the Aspen Times and close off that portion of our morning posting.
What, they are so closet ashamed of themselves up on the Times that they can't even put a byline to the articles on Paul Pedersen anymore?
This now makes the second "Staff Report" since they started getting a little heat from the public in commentary over the seedy, stalkarazzi style coverage of Pedersen.
Hmmmmm.....now, who was that reporter that tried to grab some of the Aspen Daily's spotlight over breaking the FBI probe story?
....news flash....news flash...breaking news...news flash...hmmm, that was Rick Carroll, editor of the Aspen Times, wasn't it?....news flash...news flash...breaking news...
Shouldn't the headline be 'alleged' drunken driving? At least show that much class.
It isn't the fact that SandBox and followers support law enforcement on all that is going on regarding drugs, etc. in the Aspen area.
We roundup, spin and comment on the content of the reports. This isn't about one upsmanship between agencies or media outlets, including this one.
The entire Valley is used to the Times being the only outlet for the Pitkin County Sheriff's Dept, Pitkin County and City of Aspen as their preferred choice.
And are also aware of the obvious reasons why.
What is so sad, is that they cannot see that maybe they all have lost the last window they had years ago, to correct serious error in their performances of service and duty by choosing to censor their content to the public; now, years later, they've completely lost touch with the public.
Interesting choice by former Sheriff Bob Braudis and now followed by his successor, Pitkin County Sheriff Joe DiSalvo.
What a shame that the only way the Aspen Times can 'sell' their crime reporting is to seed it with 'gonzo' journalism.
Aspen Times "Staff Report":
"ASPEN — Pitkin County Judge Erin Fernandez-Ely filed court papers Wednesday indicating that she has disqualified herself from presiding over the drunken-driving case of a former Glenwood Springs police officer.
Fernandez-Ely became the third judge in the 9th Judicial District to be removed from the case. Previously, judges Paul Metzger in Glenwood Springs and Jonathan Pototsky in Rifle recused themselves, citing a conflict of interest and sending the case to Pitkin County.
But with Fernandez-Ely now removed, it is unclear who will preside over the case against Paul Pedersen, 39, of Silt.
Garfield County sheriff's deputies stopped Pedersen outside Silt on Jan. 15. Pedersen also has been charged with prohibited use of weapons in addition to having an open container of alcohol and failing to drive in a single lane.
He resigned from the Glenwood Springs Police Department on Feb. 29. Pedersen also was a member of the Two Rivers Drug Enforcement Team and worked on assignment with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, including its investigation that resulted in the 2011 breakup of a cocaine ring that spanned between Los Angeles and Aspen.
His attorney, Lawson Wills, of Snowmass Village, could not be reached for comment Thursday."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
What, they are so closet ashamed of themselves up on the Times that they can't even put a byline to the articles on Paul Pedersen anymore?
This now makes the second "Staff Report" since they started getting a little heat from the public in commentary over the seedy, stalkarazzi style coverage of Pedersen.
Hmmmmm.....now, who was that reporter that tried to grab some of the Aspen Daily's spotlight over breaking the FBI probe story?
....news flash....news flash...breaking news...news flash...hmmm, that was Rick Carroll, editor of the Aspen Times, wasn't it?....news flash...news flash...breaking news...
Shouldn't the headline be 'alleged' drunken driving? At least show that much class.
It isn't the fact that SandBox and followers support law enforcement on all that is going on regarding drugs, etc. in the Aspen area.
We roundup, spin and comment on the content of the reports. This isn't about one upsmanship between agencies or media outlets, including this one.
The entire Valley is used to the Times being the only outlet for the Pitkin County Sheriff's Dept, Pitkin County and City of Aspen as their preferred choice.
And are also aware of the obvious reasons why.
What is so sad, is that they cannot see that maybe they all have lost the last window they had years ago, to correct serious error in their performances of service and duty by choosing to censor their content to the public; now, years later, they've completely lost touch with the public.
Interesting choice by former Sheriff Bob Braudis and now followed by his successor, Pitkin County Sheriff Joe DiSalvo.
What a shame that the only way the Aspen Times can 'sell' their crime reporting is to seed it with 'gonzo' journalism.
Aspen Times "Staff Report":
"ASPEN — Pitkin County Judge Erin Fernandez-Ely filed court papers Wednesday indicating that she has disqualified herself from presiding over the drunken-driving case of a former Glenwood Springs police officer.
Fernandez-Ely became the third judge in the 9th Judicial District to be removed from the case. Previously, judges Paul Metzger in Glenwood Springs and Jonathan Pototsky in Rifle recused themselves, citing a conflict of interest and sending the case to Pitkin County.
But with Fernandez-Ely now removed, it is unclear who will preside over the case against Paul Pedersen, 39, of Silt.
Garfield County sheriff's deputies stopped Pedersen outside Silt on Jan. 15. Pedersen also has been charged with prohibited use of weapons in addition to having an open container of alcohol and failing to drive in a single lane.
He resigned from the Glenwood Springs Police Department on Feb. 29. Pedersen also was a member of the Two Rivers Drug Enforcement Team and worked on assignment with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, including its investigation that resulted in the 2011 breakup of a cocaine ring that spanned between Los Angeles and Aspen.
His attorney, Lawson Wills, of Snowmass Village, could not be reached for comment Thursday."
(Read original staff press release? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Craig Daily Press "Veteran returning to Craig from Afghanistan"
This weekend, a Craig serviceman returns home from the front lines in Afghanistan.
Lance Cpl. Kaleb McCarthy, 21, recently completed his second tour of duty with Fox Company, Second Battalion, in the Fourth Marine Division.
He was stationed in Musa Qala, located in the southeastern Afghan province of Helmand.
He arrived stateside March 27 at Camp Pendleton near Oceanside, Calif., to participate in mandatory readjustment classes.
On Saturday, McCarthy will board a flight bound for Denver International Airport.
His plane is scheduled to arrive at 6:30 p.m. and his family expects him home early Sunday morning...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Lance Cpl. Kaleb McCarthy, 21, recently completed his second tour of duty with Fox Company, Second Battalion, in the Fourth Marine Division.
He was stationed in Musa Qala, located in the southeastern Afghan province of Helmand.
He arrived stateside March 27 at Camp Pendleton near Oceanside, Calif., to participate in mandatory readjustment classes.
On Saturday, McCarthy will board a flight bound for Denver International Airport.
His plane is scheduled to arrive at 6:30 p.m. and his family expects him home early Sunday morning...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News/Letter to the Editor "From the heart"
Owen "Chip" Freeman:
" I am alive today because of the excellent work of the paramedic and driver from Aspen EMS. On April 3, I was being transported by EMS ambulance from AVH ER to St. Mary’s in Grand Junction to have a pace maker put in when my heart stopped on I-70 outside of Rifle. The paramedic applied shock treatment to restart my heart. They rushed me to Palisade where St. Mary’s MediVac helicopter picked me up and delivered me to the operating room. They saved my life.
I can’t say enough about the EMS people and St. Mary’s. I am under the care of my cardiologist Dr. Gordon Gerson.
Thank you to one and all from the bottom of my still-working heart...." (Read original letter? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
" I am alive today because of the excellent work of the paramedic and driver from Aspen EMS. On April 3, I was being transported by EMS ambulance from AVH ER to St. Mary’s in Grand Junction to have a pace maker put in when my heart stopped on I-70 outside of Rifle. The paramedic applied shock treatment to restart my heart. They rushed me to Palisade where St. Mary’s MediVac helicopter picked me up and delivered me to the operating room. They saved my life.
I can’t say enough about the EMS people and St. Mary’s. I am under the care of my cardiologist Dr. Gordon Gerson.
Thank you to one and all from the bottom of my still-working heart...." (Read original letter? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "CDOT Honors Western Slope Law Enforcement Heroes"
Courtney Griffin:
"DENVER- "Heroes," that's what the Colorado Department of Transportation called some Western Slope law enforcement officers Wednesday afternoon.
CDOT honored those who have done an outstanding job keeping our roads safe by finding people who drive drunk and those who forget to buckle up.
Agencies that were awarded included the Glenwood Springs Police Department, Colorado State Patrol Troop 4A, 4B, and 4C, along with several individuals for their dedicated efforts on keeping our roadways safe.
One of those individuals was Trooper Dan Chermok, who said he is proud to say he's stopped many dangerous violators. "Makes me feel really good that I keep a lot of the drunk drivers off the road. Really makes things a lot more safe for everybody out there, because a lot of times if a drunk driver does crash, it's not them that gets hurt the worst," said Chermok."...(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"DENVER- "Heroes," that's what the Colorado Department of Transportation called some Western Slope law enforcement officers Wednesday afternoon.
CDOT honored those who have done an outstanding job keeping our roads safe by finding people who drive drunk and those who forget to buckle up.
Agencies that were awarded included the Glenwood Springs Police Department, Colorado State Patrol Troop 4A, 4B, and 4C, along with several individuals for their dedicated efforts on keeping our roadways safe.
One of those individuals was Trooper Dan Chermok, who said he is proud to say he's stopped many dangerous violators. "Makes me feel really good that I keep a lot of the drunk drivers off the road. Really makes things a lot more safe for everybody out there, because a lot of times if a drunk driver does crash, it's not them that gets hurt the worst," said Chermok."...(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "Top cops make jump to town management in Summit County"
Caddie Nath:
“...I see police chiefs becoming city managers a lot. They have a great skill set, in fact, sometimes better than most,” Colorado Municipal League executive director Sam Mamet said. “It used to be, you went to grad school, got your master's in public administration and worked your way up. It's all much more non-traditional (now).”..." (Read more? Click title)
“...I see police chiefs becoming city managers a lot. They have a great skill set, in fact, sometimes better than most,” Colorado Municipal League executive director Sam Mamet said. “It used to be, you went to grad school, got your master's in public administration and worked your way up. It's all much more non-traditional (now).”..." (Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Officers at World Trade Bridge Seize Over Two Tons of Marijuana in Truck Carrying Auto Parts"
"Laredo, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry on Monday seized more than two tons of alleged marijuana hidden in a commercial truck.
The seizure occurred on April 16, 2011 during an examination conducted at the World Trade Bridge import lot. A CBP officer referred a 1995 Volvo tractor hauling a commercial shipment of auto parts for a secondary examination. CBP officers performed an intensive examination and discovered 189 bundles commingled with the shipment containing a total of 4,161 pounds of alleged marijuana.
The marijuana has an estimated street value of $4.1 million. CBP officers seized the narcotics and the tractor trailer.
“This is a significant load of narcotics discovered in the cargo environment and it reflects the excellent targeting and inspectional work of our frontline officers,” said Sidney Aki, CBP Port Director, Laredo.
“Seizures like this one reaffirm CBP’s commitment to our border security mission while facilitating lawful commerce.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws."
SandBoxBlogs: CNBC "Risky Business, Even in Pot-Friendly States"
On this Earth Day 2012, the subject of legalizing marijuana is set for activists rallies all over the nation.
Let's toss up a few of the mostly pro-pot articles all in one post.
First up, CNBC's Chris Morris:
"Whether the grower is licensed or not, pot is still a risky business in states that have approved its use for medicinal purposes.
The store is a laid-back place with a popcorn machine, a "Reefer Madness" movie poster and plenty of pot, sold both mixed into candy and as buds.
Brown mingles with the staff, among them a tattooed man rolling joints in a side room. Fellow inspector Paul Schmidt, formerly an undercover agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration, checks on the facility's marijuana-growing operation.
A small group of customers, including an elderly woman with purple hair and some more conservatively dressed young adults, are choosing from a dizzying array of pot products. There are marijuana strains with names such as "Bubba Kush" and "Buddha's Sister" as well as pot-infused brownie mix and gum balls.
"What you see here is an industry coming from underground above ground," Schmidt said of Colorado's move to regulated marijuana cultivation and dispensaries." (Read more? Click link)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Let's toss up a few of the mostly pro-pot articles all in one post.
First up, CNBC's Chris Morris:
"Whether the grower is licensed or not, pot is still a risky business in states that have approved its use for medicinal purposes.
Take California. While the state has had medical marijuana dispensaries for more than 15 years, it remains a target for federal law enforcement officials, where the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration arrested nearly 8,500 people for marijuana-related offenses between 2004 and 2010.
California's hardly alone. Several other states with dispensaries have seen an increase in both arrests and the confiscation of marijuana plants. However, a look at DEA records shows what appears to be an uneven enforcement policy among pot-friendly states over the past several years.
For example, while arrests and eradication in California climbed fairly steadily in the seven-year time frame, they remained essentially flat in Maine. Colorado, meanwhile, saw a reversal in both trends halfway through the time period.
Americans for Safe Access, which advocates the legalization of medical marijuana, says the Justice Department has conducted nearly 200 raids on dispensaries and growers since President Barack Obama took office....." (Read more? Click title)
"Here in Colorado, reefer madness stems to big and small towns alike. At the University of Colorado at Boulder, thousands will gather for an annual “smoke-out”; in Denver, thousands of others will participate in the two-day High Times Medical Marijuana Cup, bringing the newest and most popular pot strains from medical dispensaries around the country to compete for awards and prizes.
But as the adoption of medical marijuana under Colorado state law in 2001 has spearheaded the incorporation of hundreds of dispensaries — putting Denver on the map for more medical marijuana centers than Starbucks — it appears that the pot culture no longer revolves around a teenybopper image of a couple of kids meeting outside the school grounds to get high but around the business model of the dispensaries and the regulated oversight of the entire pot trade — from seed to plant, from farmer to caretaker, from caretaker to patient.
In a mission to track down the methods behind Colorado's most elusive industry, I was fortunate to speak with Pete Tramm, owner of Locals Emporium for Alternative Farms (L.E.A.F.) in Aspen, who unlike most in his line of business, talks as if he has nothing to hide...." (Read more? Click link)
But as the adoption of medical marijuana under Colorado state law in 2001 has spearheaded the incorporation of hundreds of dispensaries — putting Denver on the map for more medical marijuana centers than Starbucks — it appears that the pot culture no longer revolves around a teenybopper image of a couple of kids meeting outside the school grounds to get high but around the business model of the dispensaries and the regulated oversight of the entire pot trade — from seed to plant, from farmer to caretaker, from caretaker to patient.
In a mission to track down the methods behind Colorado's most elusive industry, I was fortunate to speak with Pete Tramm, owner of Locals Emporium for Alternative Farms (L.E.A.F.) in Aspen, who unlike most in his line of business, talks as if he has nothing to hide...." (Read more? Click link)
"DENVER (Reuters) - At a Denver dispensary for medical marijuana, state inspector Mark Brown makes his usual checks, verifying that employees wear name-tag licenses and the video surveillance system works.
The store is a laid-back place with a popcorn machine, a "Reefer Madness" movie poster and plenty of pot, sold both mixed into candy and as buds.
Brown mingles with the staff, among them a tattooed man rolling joints in a side room. Fellow inspector Paul Schmidt, formerly an undercover agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration, checks on the facility's marijuana-growing operation.
A small group of customers, including an elderly woman with purple hair and some more conservatively dressed young adults, are choosing from a dizzying array of pot products. There are marijuana strains with names such as "Bubba Kush" and "Buddha's Sister" as well as pot-infused brownie mix and gum balls.
"What you see here is an industry coming from underground above ground," Schmidt said of Colorado's move to regulated marijuana cultivation and dispensaries." (Read more? Click link)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Big Changes Coming To Part Of Garfield County"
Congrats to the City of Rifle!! Rockin the slope with the obvious intentions of continuing to blow right by the economic growth of everyone else in the neighborhood.
This..is terrific news.
Janelle Ericsson:
"RIFLE, Colo. -- Changes are coming to part of Garfield County. The city of Rifle is expanding it's downtown to be more pedestrian friendly and bring new businesses to the area.
The city of Rifle received an $800,000 grant from the federal government to improve the town. City officials say they have had a lot of success in the past with developments and they have high hopes for this project too.
One of the most important things the city of Rifle is looking to do is make the downtown area more visually appealing and a place where businesses would want to open. It hopes by bringing new businesses to town it will benefit the current community as well as bring more tourists through Rifle.
"We're really taking a hard look at the market reality and which projects will actually fly given the economic situation that we're in currently but also looking forward to where the economic situation can change and how do we actually make a deal happen to make projects go forward," city planner Nathan Lindquist said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
This..is terrific news.
Janelle Ericsson:
"RIFLE, Colo. -- Changes are coming to part of Garfield County. The city of Rifle is expanding it's downtown to be more pedestrian friendly and bring new businesses to the area.
The city of Rifle received an $800,000 grant from the federal government to improve the town. City officials say they have had a lot of success in the past with developments and they have high hopes for this project too.
One of the most important things the city of Rifle is looking to do is make the downtown area more visually appealing and a place where businesses would want to open. It hopes by bringing new businesses to town it will benefit the current community as well as bring more tourists through Rifle.
"We're really taking a hard look at the market reality and which projects will actually fly given the economic situation that we're in currently but also looking forward to where the economic situation can change and how do we actually make a deal happen to make projects go forward," city planner Nathan Lindquist said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Your Letters "Compressor decisions made in advance"
Speaking of the natural law of cause and effect, trickle up and trickle down consequences; the folks can look around the past decade or so of heightened clarity and be grateful that some things in life, like the good old-fashioned gossip/party line just never die off. Why? So they can recall the natural role of Darwinism in our lives and the need sometimes to call in the power of natural equalizing force. Which is always the personal power of thinking on your own rather than through third party agendas.
'.....one ringie dingie....two ringie dingie...three ringie dingie.....'oh, good!....says the 'aging party liner aka spider to the fly'....'here comes one of my "robo" ringie dingies who can be number four'....'so nice to see how well those previous little cultivations of preying on another's weaknesses turns out on my behalf'....ring...ring....hello?....oh, dear.. party line must be having issues again....now, let's see...who can I ring up now, said the 'spider to the fly aka aging party liner', that I have cultivated from the past...."
Jenell Hilderbrand:
"I wonder what the people who donated the land in Spring Valley to Colorado Mountain College for educational purposes would think of the gas company, SourceGas, putting a compressor site on that property. Is CMC gaining financial rewards from this? These decisions seem to be made prior to public meetings and is a public upset."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
'.....one ringie dingie....two ringie dingie...three ringie dingie.....'oh, good!....says the 'aging party liner aka spider to the fly'....'here comes one of my "robo" ringie dingies who can be number four'....'so nice to see how well those previous little cultivations of preying on another's weaknesses turns out on my behalf'....ring...ring....hello?....oh, dear.. party line must be having issues again....now, let's see...who can I ring up now, said the 'spider to the fly aka aging party liner', that I have cultivated from the past...."
Jenell Hilderbrand:
"I wonder what the people who donated the land in Spring Valley to Colorado Mountain College for educational purposes would think of the gas company, SourceGas, putting a compressor site on that property. Is CMC gaining financial rewards from this? These decisions seem to be made prior to public meetings and is a public upset."
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Comment Spotlight " 'glenwoodsprings22' on the CMC Trustees action on compressor station"
"glenwoodsprings22 said..."
"Good job by Jensen. This is where the whole thing should have stayed, should never have been tattled on to BOCC and letters to the editor. That kind of phone tree fauxtrage rounding up back strokers is a thing of the past.
Here's what I think about the compressor station itself. It's not about the station, it wouldn't matter if they hid the thing decked out as a high-end custom build exterior. These neighbors up in Spring Valley have been deadset against any kind of build, any kind of growth. CMC only thinks they would have smooth sails if they wanted to build more campus on these lands. Nothing, nothing is going to please these people. The proof of that is in the years worth of project bid submittals for developing Spring Valley. Go to bid clerk or Dodge reports and surf for Spring Valley under the parameters of the past 15 years. Then sit back and see the glimpse of the hard hitting cronyism politics that CMC trustees are really dealing with here. Nothing will please these people. You watch now, this new spot is going to be met with the same ruckus by the same people. Just under a different hat.
Source needs the station, natural gas is a natural fact of life. The best spot for it was the one just left behind. Since that is gone now because everyone that is above board and not steeped in self-interests took the high road and let these people go through democracy without looking into history, that ideal spot is a no-go.
The trustees did what we elected them to do and bent over backwards as diplomats. That's done now, let's get down to the business at hand and be done with it. No more delays.
Nice job, CMC trustees." (April 12, 2012)
"Good job by Jensen. This is where the whole thing should have stayed, should never have been tattled on to BOCC and letters to the editor. That kind of phone tree fauxtrage rounding up back strokers is a thing of the past.
Here's what I think about the compressor station itself. It's not about the station, it wouldn't matter if they hid the thing decked out as a high-end custom build exterior. These neighbors up in Spring Valley have been deadset against any kind of build, any kind of growth. CMC only thinks they would have smooth sails if they wanted to build more campus on these lands. Nothing, nothing is going to please these people. The proof of that is in the years worth of project bid submittals for developing Spring Valley. Go to bid clerk or Dodge reports and surf for Spring Valley under the parameters of the past 15 years. Then sit back and see the glimpse of the hard hitting cronyism politics that CMC trustees are really dealing with here. Nothing will please these people. You watch now, this new spot is going to be met with the same ruckus by the same people. Just under a different hat.
Source needs the station, natural gas is a natural fact of life. The best spot for it was the one just left behind. Since that is gone now because everyone that is above board and not steeped in self-interests took the high road and let these people go through democracy without looking into history, that ideal spot is a no-go.
The trustees did what we elected them to do and bent over backwards as diplomats. That's done now, let's get down to the business at hand and be done with it. No more delays.
Nice job, CMC trustees." (April 12, 2012)
SandBoxBlogs: KDNK "EnCana Engineer Fills CDale Trustees in on Fracking"
The trickle down effect. Or, possibly also the trickle up results.
Much emphasis these days on hard and soft corruption, the drug 'war', illegal immigration enforcement, reforms, civil disobedience, bullies, power abuse, economic equality in the business and work force. So many ways to pick up the morning news, in every part of the nation, and feel discouraged on one hand while cautiously optimistic on the other.
Is that the way it has 'always been'? In some ways, I think so. The question at this point in time is 'why' are all of these things coming into focus for so many along with increasing clarity that they really are all linked together?
When you look back historically and see the epochal moments that have altered the course we all have stayed as a collective whole, it is not difficult to notice that a major event of some kind and often a series of major events, have brought a collective need to personally reassess the common grounds we all share.
Common ground that is not about the politics and other mechanisms we all use to propel our lives and others forward. My reference is to the common ground of the need for shelter, sustenance, relationships and all of those things that bring us all in the end, to the heart of the matter.
One of the thoughts I personally have on cause and effect types of common ground, is that the birth of 24/7 news cycles and juggernaut rising of communications technology, is responsible for the vast majority of modern day effects on the folks lives.
That the trouble is, those news cycles and technological advancements have risen to 90% artificial foundation that has no human connection once it leaves the keyboard.
The salvation of the 24/7 news cycle, in my view, lies in Independent Media and human beings with certain skill sets such as writing, connecting through words and analytical analysis of the old gum-shoe variety. These are human beings out here and the trickle down effect rules all here in the real world.
The Great Recession is one such event. 9/11 before that. The folks reached out their arms and gathered their most dear back in back in 2001. Reminded themselves that we are dependent on survival first and foremost. And that we need heroes sometimes. The 'gift' of 9/11, lay in part as that reminder.
The recession slammed a tsunami of awareness that the things we hold as materially secure can be ripped from us at the hand of others in the blink of an eye. The common ground shared with the event of 9/11 is the reminder that first and foremost we are survival oriented and sometimes, we need heroes to help us.
Tortuous interference and unjust enrichment take many forms. Within law, the gamut can run from loss of life and what that person could have been 'worth' in legal value. A brutally cold legal formula that is used in civil action for wrongful death. It can be seen in business and contractual law. Even flow over into criminal law if the enrichment gained by a wrongful act meets certain legal standards.
Where should the common man look to, in their own small nucleus of the world, to see how they should be dealing with all these cause and effect movements? That in all ways we ultimately are all dependent upon? Or, why look at all? Why pay attention?
The answer to that one is that we always can choose to be the collateral damage to an effect. Pretty easy way to live, just rolling with the punches. Or we can hold the circled wagons together and just wait for a lighter storm to roll in while we weather the tsunami. Or we can choose to be awake and aware so that we can play the role we choose in the cause of the effects.
Here's a thought. Possibly even alter the effect of harm brought to our family, friends, loved ones and community.
The latest flap about land leases is not about fracking. Technology in oil and gas industries. Water rights, price of gas or even jobs.
Where the entire problem lies, is in communication and the individual choice on whether or not to play a role in active participation. Here's another thought. How tough is it to be alert and attentive and reach for direct source information instead of filtered through third party? As easy as clicking the title above and listening to the trusted podcast of KDNK rather than picking up still yet another shuck and jive dance on the energy industry over here on the GSPI.
Today, let's listen to some of the actual statements, directly from EnCana as presented to the Carbondale Trustees.
Maybe even do some private thinking on the ways all of our lives intertwine with each other. What one person might accomplish if they just decided their time had come to be their very own version of a hero. Kinda like the KDNK guys today. Maybe even the EnCana guys. Each of them offering themselves as direct source.
Who knew it could be so easy as clicking on a podcast? win win.
KDNK:
"Carbondale trustees got a visit from EnCana Corporation Tuesday night, when an engineer and a stakeholder relations advisor gave a presentation on hydraulic fracturing.
EnCana is one of the largest natural gas operators in the country, and here in Garfield County, they're a major player in the extraction of natural gas. Last night, engineer Mark Balderston assured the board that because of the use of best practices when it comes to safety, they're in control of the "whole situation, all the time"....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Much emphasis these days on hard and soft corruption, the drug 'war', illegal immigration enforcement, reforms, civil disobedience, bullies, power abuse, economic equality in the business and work force. So many ways to pick up the morning news, in every part of the nation, and feel discouraged on one hand while cautiously optimistic on the other.
Is that the way it has 'always been'? In some ways, I think so. The question at this point in time is 'why' are all of these things coming into focus for so many along with increasing clarity that they really are all linked together?
When you look back historically and see the epochal moments that have altered the course we all have stayed as a collective whole, it is not difficult to notice that a major event of some kind and often a series of major events, have brought a collective need to personally reassess the common grounds we all share.
Common ground that is not about the politics and other mechanisms we all use to propel our lives and others forward. My reference is to the common ground of the need for shelter, sustenance, relationships and all of those things that bring us all in the end, to the heart of the matter.
One of the thoughts I personally have on cause and effect types of common ground, is that the birth of 24/7 news cycles and juggernaut rising of communications technology, is responsible for the vast majority of modern day effects on the folks lives.
That the trouble is, those news cycles and technological advancements have risen to 90% artificial foundation that has no human connection once it leaves the keyboard.
The salvation of the 24/7 news cycle, in my view, lies in Independent Media and human beings with certain skill sets such as writing, connecting through words and analytical analysis of the old gum-shoe variety. These are human beings out here and the trickle down effect rules all here in the real world.
The Great Recession is one such event. 9/11 before that. The folks reached out their arms and gathered their most dear back in back in 2001. Reminded themselves that we are dependent on survival first and foremost. And that we need heroes sometimes. The 'gift' of 9/11, lay in part as that reminder.
The recession slammed a tsunami of awareness that the things we hold as materially secure can be ripped from us at the hand of others in the blink of an eye. The common ground shared with the event of 9/11 is the reminder that first and foremost we are survival oriented and sometimes, we need heroes to help us.
Tortuous interference and unjust enrichment take many forms. Within law, the gamut can run from loss of life and what that person could have been 'worth' in legal value. A brutally cold legal formula that is used in civil action for wrongful death. It can be seen in business and contractual law. Even flow over into criminal law if the enrichment gained by a wrongful act meets certain legal standards.
Where should the common man look to, in their own small nucleus of the world, to see how they should be dealing with all these cause and effect movements? That in all ways we ultimately are all dependent upon? Or, why look at all? Why pay attention?
The answer to that one is that we always can choose to be the collateral damage to an effect. Pretty easy way to live, just rolling with the punches. Or we can hold the circled wagons together and just wait for a lighter storm to roll in while we weather the tsunami. Or we can choose to be awake and aware so that we can play the role we choose in the cause of the effects.
Here's a thought. Possibly even alter the effect of harm brought to our family, friends, loved ones and community.
The latest flap about land leases is not about fracking. Technology in oil and gas industries. Water rights, price of gas or even jobs.
Where the entire problem lies, is in communication and the individual choice on whether or not to play a role in active participation. Here's another thought. How tough is it to be alert and attentive and reach for direct source information instead of filtered through third party? As easy as clicking the title above and listening to the trusted podcast of KDNK rather than picking up still yet another shuck and jive dance on the energy industry over here on the GSPI.
Today, let's listen to some of the actual statements, directly from EnCana as presented to the Carbondale Trustees.
Maybe even do some private thinking on the ways all of our lives intertwine with each other. What one person might accomplish if they just decided their time had come to be their very own version of a hero. Kinda like the KDNK guys today. Maybe even the EnCana guys. Each of them offering themselves as direct source.
Who knew it could be so easy as clicking on a podcast? win win.
KDNK:
"Carbondale trustees got a visit from EnCana Corporation Tuesday night, when an engineer and a stakeholder relations advisor gave a presentation on hydraulic fracturing.
EnCana is one of the largest natural gas operators in the country, and here in Garfield County, they're a major player in the extraction of natural gas. Last night, engineer Mark Balderston assured the board that because of the use of best practices when it comes to safety, they're in control of the "whole situation, all the time"....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KKCO 11 News "Drilling compromise in CO leaves zoning unsettled "
"DENVER (AP) -- A dispute between Colorado communities and the oil and gas industry over who has the ability to zone drilling operations remains unsettled despite a task force convened to settle the matter.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
In a letter to state lawmakers Wednesday, the task force said in was "neither realistic nor productive" to settle that question. Instead, the task force recommended that energy regulators do a better job keeping local governments in the loop on drilling decisions...." (Read more? Watch video? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "West: BLM eyes ecosanctuary plans for wild horses"
(See related story here)
What wonderful news this is.
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — The long-running controversy over the fate of the West’s wild horses may be at least partially resolved in the coming years, as the Bureau of Land Management moves toward partnering with private stakeholders to create a 530,000-acre eco-sanctuary in northeastern Nevada.
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
What wonderful news this is.
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — The long-running controversy over the fate of the West’s wild horses may be at least partially resolved in the coming years, as the Bureau of Land Management moves toward partnering with private stakeholders to create a 530,000-acre eco-sanctuary in northeastern Nevada.
The BLM said this week it will start an environmental study of the proposal submitted by the Saving America’s Mustangs Foundation and Madeline Pickens. The study will take about two years. Subsequently, the agency will decide whether to move ahead with the plans....." (Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Pueblo Chieftain " High quality Low Ark produce "
Ryan Severance:
"With growing season just beginning, farmers in the Rocky Ford region are focused on gaining consumer confidence back after a deadly listeria outbreak in cantaloupe last year.
"I think there are people who will still be wary of our product and of the listeria outbreak last year, but we haven't had any problems with food safety in Rocky Ford in 120 years and we are all committed to high quality," Brian Knapp, who runs Knapp Farms in Rocky Ford, said..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
While the contamination occurred many miles away in a packing plant near Granada, farmers in the Lower Arkansas Valley say it's best to be proactive and to assure the public that they are taking all the right steps in food handling safety.
"With growing season just beginning, farmers in the Rocky Ford region are focused on gaining consumer confidence back after a deadly listeria outbreak in cantaloupe last year.
"I think there are people who will still be wary of our product and of the listeria outbreak last year, but we haven't had any problems with food safety in Rocky Ford in 120 years and we are all committed to high quality," Brian Knapp, who runs Knapp Farms in Rocky Ford, said..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
While the contamination occurred many miles away in a packing plant near Granada, farmers in the Lower Arkansas Valley say it's best to be proactive and to assure the public that they are taking all the right steps in food handling safety.
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "And the Stewy goes to…"
More than just a tiny snippet, we'll cut off Stewart Oskenhorn's run in to his 'Stewy's'. Always a great peek into some of the art and music scene around the Aspen area. Be sure to click title and read up on who gets the nod this season.
Stewart Oksenhorn:
"At 48 1/2 years old, you come to realize some truths about yourself that can probably be called eternal truths. For me, there's this one: My appetite for music and concert-going isn't fading away. Not even a little. Spending a full day at a festival, running from one stage to the next, camera in tow, is as good as a vacation.
Every night that I get on my bike for the two-minute straight shot to Belly Up Aspen makes me feel like a kid. I'm happy to report that, even as my stash of favorite acts has piled up to the toppling point — there's just not enough time to give proper listening attention to all the CDs in my collection, for which I feel guilty — I haven't lost the thrill of discovering new sounds.
Still, I feel a little weird when people comment that I must be out every night, checking out music. Not even remotely close. Given that I'm a family guy, and that my alarm is going to go off at 6:25 a.m. regardless of how many hours of sleep I got, I have to choose carefully. As it is, I can't even keep up with everything Belly Up throws at me on a near-nightly basis — not to mention there's also the 7908 Aspen Songwriters Festival and other shows at the Wheeler Opera House, Jazz Aspen Snowmass' festivals and series, the Aspen Music Festival, Skico's winter shows, Chili Pepper & Brew Fest, summertime shows on Fanny Hill. On top of all that, my so-called friend Josh Behrman goes and opens PAC3, adding a commute to Carbondale to my logistical hurdles. And have I mentioned that the lure of the occasional road trip tugs at me just as strong as it was back in the days when a day-long drive to the see a Grateful Dead show was my idea of heaven, freedom and adventure?
My musical cup verily runs over, and I wouldn't have it any other way. And someday not too far off, when my services as dad aren't quite so in demand, I'll be able to tell those people who assume I'm out every night that I am at least getting close. When that day comes, I'll still be enthused about crowded clubs, over-amplified guitars, new bands and new forms of music, being jostled by drunks as I try to take photos, long festival days in sun or snow.
This I know about myself.
Here's the best and most notable of what I heard and saw these past few months, in a little exercise I call the Stewys. Long may it run. Happy 4/20 to you and yours...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Stewart Oksenhorn:
"At 48 1/2 years old, you come to realize some truths about yourself that can probably be called eternal truths. For me, there's this one: My appetite for music and concert-going isn't fading away. Not even a little. Spending a full day at a festival, running from one stage to the next, camera in tow, is as good as a vacation.
Every night that I get on my bike for the two-minute straight shot to Belly Up Aspen makes me feel like a kid. I'm happy to report that, even as my stash of favorite acts has piled up to the toppling point — there's just not enough time to give proper listening attention to all the CDs in my collection, for which I feel guilty — I haven't lost the thrill of discovering new sounds.
Still, I feel a little weird when people comment that I must be out every night, checking out music. Not even remotely close. Given that I'm a family guy, and that my alarm is going to go off at 6:25 a.m. regardless of how many hours of sleep I got, I have to choose carefully. As it is, I can't even keep up with everything Belly Up throws at me on a near-nightly basis — not to mention there's also the 7908 Aspen Songwriters Festival and other shows at the Wheeler Opera House, Jazz Aspen Snowmass' festivals and series, the Aspen Music Festival, Skico's winter shows, Chili Pepper & Brew Fest, summertime shows on Fanny Hill. On top of all that, my so-called friend Josh Behrman goes and opens PAC3, adding a commute to Carbondale to my logistical hurdles. And have I mentioned that the lure of the occasional road trip tugs at me just as strong as it was back in the days when a day-long drive to the see a Grateful Dead show was my idea of heaven, freedom and adventure?
My musical cup verily runs over, and I wouldn't have it any other way. And someday not too far off, when my services as dad aren't quite so in demand, I'll be able to tell those people who assume I'm out every night that I am at least getting close. When that day comes, I'll still be enthused about crowded clubs, over-amplified guitars, new bands and new forms of music, being jostled by drunks as I try to take photos, long festival days in sun or snow.
This I know about myself.
Here's the best and most notable of what I heard and saw these past few months, in a little exercise I call the Stewys. Long may it run. Happy 4/20 to you and yours...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning photo: Earth Day"
Always a pleasure to spend Earth Day's first glance at the news with Bob Berwyn. Over, up and down on the Summit County Citizens Voice.
(laughs...cues sound background of happy, laughing children, birds chirping and one lone penquin crying out for company...rolls eyes...)
All shameless photo credit goes to Bob Berwyn:
(laughs...cues sound background of happy, laughing children, birds chirping and one lone penquin crying out for company...rolls eyes...)
All shameless photo credit goes to Bob Berwyn:
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