Kathy Browning:
"On April 19, around 11:30 p.m., Hotchkiss deputies Chad Lloyd and Gates Shaklee were called to a structure fire at 260 East Orchard Street.
Marshal Dan Miller learned about the bravery of his two deputies the morning after the fire from Hotchkiss Fire Chief Doug Fritz.
At the May 10 Hotchkiss Town Council meeting Miller, Fritz and Mayor Wendell Koontz spoke about the incident during a ceremony where the deputies' valor was recognized.
The deputies entered the apartment which was engulfed with flames and smoke, Miller said. They attempted but were unable to extinguish the blaze.
Lloyd and Shaklee went into the apartment on their hands and knees to locate the victim, Jerry Bledsoe. They were able to pull him to safety from the bathroom. Bledsoe was later flown to Greeley to receive treatment for his critical burns.
"The atmosphere in that apartment was immediately hazardous to their health and safety. They disregarded that and went in, exemplifying some of the highest examples we expect out of our public servants," said Hotchkiss Fire Chief Doug Fritz. "I can tell you that people in our community who are older and disabled are at much greater risk of horrible death by fire. Gates and Chad prevented that. We owe them a lot of admiration, and we are pretty proud to be working with them."
Because of their bravery, Lloyd and Shaklee were awarded Medals of Valor and letters of commendation..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
May 26, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Garfield Public Info "GARFIELD COUNTY ALL HAZARDS RESPONSE TEAM SILENT AUCTION AND FUNDRAISER"
GARFIELD COUNTY:
"The All Hazard Response Team (AHRT) is a multi-agency group within Garfield County, Colorado. AHRT not only serves Garfield County, but also the entire Northwest Region of Colorado. Currently, the five member agencies of ARHT include: the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, Glenwood Springs Police Department, Glenwood Springs Fire Department, Rifle Police Department and the Silt Police Department. AHRT is currently commanded by Undersheriff Colt Cornelius.
Each year AHRT competes nationally in order to maintain their skills and knowledge. The Tactical Team competes in the United States National SWAT championships, whereas the Crisis Negotiation Team competes in Crisis Negotiation championships. Along with the trainings and competitions, AHRT regularly participates in community events with the intention of educating the public on the All Hazards Response Team functions.
The All Hazards Response Team obtains their necessary tools and equipment through donation assistance, federal grants and cost sharing through various local organizations. The team employs a wide range of equipment, including the LENCO BearCat and the “Green Machine”...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
ALL HAZARDSRESPONSE TEAM
Saturday , July 14, 2012
12:00 P.M. — 3:00 P.M.
"The All Hazard Response Team (AHRT) is a multi-agency group within Garfield County, Colorado. AHRT not only serves Garfield County, but also the entire Northwest Region of Colorado. Currently, the five member agencies of ARHT include: the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, Glenwood Springs Police Department, Glenwood Springs Fire Department, Rifle Police Department and the Silt Police Department. AHRT is currently commanded by Undersheriff Colt Cornelius.
Each year AHRT competes nationally in order to maintain their skills and knowledge. The Tactical Team competes in the United States National SWAT championships, whereas the Crisis Negotiation Team competes in Crisis Negotiation championships. Along with the trainings and competitions, AHRT regularly participates in community events with the intention of educating the public on the All Hazards Response Team functions.
The All Hazards Response Team obtains their necessary tools and equipment through donation assistance, federal grants and cost sharing through various local organizations. The team employs a wide range of equipment, including the LENCO BearCat and the “Green Machine”...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Garfield Public Info "WHALE (We Have A Little Emergency)"
Garfield County Sheriff:
"The WHALE program (We Have A Little Emergency) is an identification and information package for child car safety seats.
The first program of its kind in theUnited States, WHALE is currently used in 32 states and soon nationwide. It requires the use of four self-adhesive stickers and one information label.
One information label attached to the rear of the car seat provides important information about that child in the seat, such as name, date of birth, medical history, and who to contact in case of emergency. Two WHALE Car Seat Stickers attach to the sides of the safety seat and two WHALE Vehicle Stickers attach to the rear side widows of the vehicle help depict the WHALE logo and alert rescuers that the vehicle occupants participate in the program.
The WHALE program is a simple and viable way to ensure proper and efficient treatment of children in the event of an automobile accident.
We feel this program will relieve some of the frustration rescuers feel while trying to obtain information about a child in a car safety seat at the scene of an automobile accident. It also saves valuable time when injuries are involved. The WHALE program can make a difference, but its success depends on you...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The WHALE program (We Have A Little Emergency) is an identification and information package for child car safety seats.
The first program of its kind in theUnited States, WHALE is currently used in 32 states and soon nationwide. It requires the use of four self-adhesive stickers and one information label.
One information label attached to the rear of the car seat provides important information about that child in the seat, such as name, date of birth, medical history, and who to contact in case of emergency. Two WHALE Car Seat Stickers attach to the sides of the safety seat and two WHALE Vehicle Stickers attach to the rear side widows of the vehicle help depict the WHALE logo and alert rescuers that the vehicle occupants participate in the program.
The WHALE program is a simple and viable way to ensure proper and efficient treatment of children in the event of an automobile accident.
We feel this program will relieve some of the frustration rescuers feel while trying to obtain information about a child in a car safety seat at the scene of an automobile accident. It also saves valuable time when injuries are involved. The WHALE program can make a difference, but its success depends on you...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Feds review fatal shooting by trooper"
Paul Shockley:
"Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger said Friday he has sent records of Mesa County’s probe into the 2010 shooting death of Jason Kemp to the U.S. Department of Justice for a possible criminal civil rights investigation.
“I don’t think it’s proper of me to advocate or push for a particular decision by the U.S. attorney,” Hautzinger said, when asked about the chances of federal prosecutors or the FBI agreeing to take up the case.
“I’ve referred to them what I have. What they do with it is entirely up to them,” he said.
Hautzinger said he sent to federal prosecutors transcripts covering a Mesa County grand jury’s 2010 investigation into Kemp’s shooting on July 20, 2010, which followed a confrontation at the front door of Kemp’s home at 103 Glade Park Road, Unit B, with a pair of Colorado State Patrol troopers.
“I contacted the U.S. attorney at the request of (Kemp’s) family earlier this week, after I told the family I’d decided to dismiss,” Hautzinger said, referring to his decision Friday to drop criminal charges against Colorado State Patrol Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Hautzinger said the grand jury transcripts were sent at the request of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Jeff Dorschner, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Denver, confirmed contact with Hautzinger’s office on Kemp’s case and the receipt of documents “for our review.”
Dorschner declined to characterize the purpose or scope of the review and declined further comment on the matter....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger said Friday he has sent records of Mesa County’s probe into the 2010 shooting death of Jason Kemp to the U.S. Department of Justice for a possible criminal civil rights investigation.
“I don’t think it’s proper of me to advocate or push for a particular decision by the U.S. attorney,” Hautzinger said, when asked about the chances of federal prosecutors or the FBI agreeing to take up the case.
“I’ve referred to them what I have. What they do with it is entirely up to them,” he said.
Hautzinger said he sent to federal prosecutors transcripts covering a Mesa County grand jury’s 2010 investigation into Kemp’s shooting on July 20, 2010, which followed a confrontation at the front door of Kemp’s home at 103 Glade Park Road, Unit B, with a pair of Colorado State Patrol troopers.
“I contacted the U.S. attorney at the request of (Kemp’s) family earlier this week, after I told the family I’d decided to dismiss,” Hautzinger said, referring to his decision Friday to drop criminal charges against Colorado State Patrol Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Hautzinger said the grand jury transcripts were sent at the request of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Jeff Dorschner, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Denver, confirmed contact with Hautzinger’s office on Kemp’s case and the receipt of documents “for our review.”
Dorschner declined to characterize the purpose or scope of the review and declined further comment on the matter....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: RealVail " USOC, IOC deal clears path for possible 2022 Colorado Winter Olympic bid"
David O. Williams:
"A huge hurdle facing a Colorado 2022 Winter Olympic bid was cleared today when the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) resolved a long-running and bitter revenue-sharing dispute.
USOC official will reportedly meet next month to determine whether the United States, which has not hosted the Games since 2002 in Salt Lake City, should submit a bid for the 2022 Winter Games or the 2024 Summer Games.
Denver and potential ski-resort venues throughout Colorado, including Vail and Beaver Creek, would be among the frontrunners for a potential 2022 bid. Other cities that have expressed interest include Salt Lake, Reno and Bozeman, Mont.
"A huge hurdle facing a Colorado 2022 Winter Olympic bid was cleared today when the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) resolved a long-running and bitter revenue-sharing dispute.
USOC official will reportedly meet next month to determine whether the United States, which has not hosted the Games since 2002 in Salt Lake City, should submit a bid for the 2022 Winter Games or the 2024 Summer Games.
Denver and potential ski-resort venues throughout Colorado, including Vail and Beaver Creek, would be among the frontrunners for a potential 2022 bid. Other cities that have expressed interest include Salt Lake, Reno and Bozeman, Mont.
Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock released a joint statement on today’s developments...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "Out for themselves"
Terrific column this week from Tony Vagneur. Up on the Aspen Times.
Tony Vagneur:
"Speaking of papers, a recent story indicated that there was a big flap earlier in the year up around Radar Road in Skyline Park (formerly the Droste property) about some people ignoring closed signs to take a preseason gander at the flora and fauna.
Apparently, one of those receiving a ticket for violating the closure was some developer who felt a certain sense of entitlement about his egregiousness, based on the proximity of his house to the area and some real or imagined beneficence he'd granted to Pitkin County Open Space and Trails in its acquisition of the property. Never mind that his exercise of a perceived sense of privilege might have caused a cow elk to abort her calf or created other havoc in the local herd. To top it off, no sooner had an official trail ranger engaged the developer in a conversation about the seriousness of the transgression, the image of a mountain biker appeared from the closed area, adding insult to the entire illiterate escapade.
You can rest assured that no contingent of aggrieved elk, distressed that their once-private calving grounds are now being disrespected by people who should know better, will petition the powers that be for relief. That must come from those among us who sometimes fail to acknowledge personal responsibility....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Tony Vagneur:
"Speaking of papers, a recent story indicated that there was a big flap earlier in the year up around Radar Road in Skyline Park (formerly the Droste property) about some people ignoring closed signs to take a preseason gander at the flora and fauna.
Apparently, one of those receiving a ticket for violating the closure was some developer who felt a certain sense of entitlement about his egregiousness, based on the proximity of his house to the area and some real or imagined beneficence he'd granted to Pitkin County Open Space and Trails in its acquisition of the property. Never mind that his exercise of a perceived sense of privilege might have caused a cow elk to abort her calf or created other havoc in the local herd. To top it off, no sooner had an official trail ranger engaged the developer in a conversation about the seriousness of the transgression, the image of a mountain biker appeared from the closed area, adding insult to the entire illiterate escapade.
You can rest assured that no contingent of aggrieved elk, distressed that their once-private calving grounds are now being disrespected by people who should know better, will petition the powers that be for relief. That must come from those among us who sometimes fail to acknowledge personal responsibility....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Seagrasses vital to sequestering atmospheric carbon"
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Coral reefs may get all the glory when it comes to biodiversity, but new research shows that relatively unsung seagrass communities may play a vital role in sequestering atmospheric carbon.
Any carbon that’s not in the atmosphere means it’s not trapping heat, so cultivating and protecting existing coastal seagrass communities could be a vital part of the solution to climate change, according to the first global analysis of carbon storage in seagrass.
The results of the study suggest that seagrass meadows can store up to twice as much carbon as the world’s temperate and tropical forests — up to 83,000 metric tons of carbon per square kilometer, mostly in the soils beneath them, as compared to typical terrestrial forests, which store about 30,000 metric tons per square kilometer, most of which is in the form of wood.
The research also estimates that, although seagrass meadows occupy less than 0.2 percent of the world’s oceans, they are responsible for more than 10 percent of all carbon buried annually in the sea.
“Seagrasses only take up a small percentage of global coastal area, but this assessment shows that they’re a dynamic ecosystem for carbon transformation,” said James Fourqurean, the lead author of the paper and a scientist at Florida International University and the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Florida Coastal Everglades Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site.
The Florida Coastal Everglades LTER site is one of 26 such NSF LTER sites around the world in ecosystems from forests to tundra, coral reefs to barrier islands.
“Seagrasses have the unique ability to continue to store carbon in their roots and soil in coastal seas,” said Fourqurean. “We found places where seagrass beds have been storing carbon for thousands of years.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Coral reefs may get all the glory when it comes to biodiversity, but new research shows that relatively unsung seagrass communities may play a vital role in sequestering atmospheric carbon.
Any carbon that’s not in the atmosphere means it’s not trapping heat, so cultivating and protecting existing coastal seagrass communities could be a vital part of the solution to climate change, according to the first global analysis of carbon storage in seagrass.
The results of the study suggest that seagrass meadows can store up to twice as much carbon as the world’s temperate and tropical forests — up to 83,000 metric tons of carbon per square kilometer, mostly in the soils beneath them, as compared to typical terrestrial forests, which store about 30,000 metric tons per square kilometer, most of which is in the form of wood.
The research also estimates that, although seagrass meadows occupy less than 0.2 percent of the world’s oceans, they are responsible for more than 10 percent of all carbon buried annually in the sea.
“Seagrasses only take up a small percentage of global coastal area, but this assessment shows that they’re a dynamic ecosystem for carbon transformation,” said James Fourqurean, the lead author of the paper and a scientist at Florida International University and the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Florida Coastal Everglades Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site.
The Florida Coastal Everglades LTER site is one of 26 such NSF LTER sites around the world in ecosystems from forests to tundra, coral reefs to barrier islands.
“Seagrasses have the unique ability to continue to store carbon in their roots and soil in coastal seas,” said Fourqurean. “We found places where seagrass beds have been storing carbon for thousands of years.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "On the fly: Offseason delight"
Kirk Webb:
"BASALT — As of late, anglers have been few and far between on the normally bustling Fryingpan River. Believe it or not, May is the second slowest month of the year in terms of fishing pressure.
As hard as it to believe, there are more fishermen spread out along the river in December and January than there are in May. Don't let this fact fool you, though, as the fishing is pretty incredible right now. I can personally attest to that.
While driving along the 14-mile length of river between downtown Basalt and Ruedi Reservoir recently, I counted only 10 anglers, half of whom were strung out in the Toilet Bowl near the dam. With water flows hovering around 100 cubic feet per second, the fishing opportunities for anglers are supurb. Wading is easy and safe at these levels and the dry fly fishing has been sensational.
Good midge and blue-wing olive hatches are the norm along the river from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Generally speaking, look for fish to focus on midges during the first half of that time frame while the back half of that period is more blue-wing olive-oriented. With the low and clear water, dry-fly fishers will still want to utilize light tippets of 7x fluorocarbon. Even when nymph fishing, I still prefer to use 6x tippets to attach my first fly and 7x tippet to connect my dropper or second fly.
When dry-fly fishing on the Fryingpan, you'll want to cast downstream to the rising fish. This will allow the fish to see your fly first, instead of fly line, leader, tippet and then your fly. This trick especially comes into play when working over smart or pressured fish. The heaviest hatches have been taking place along the middle and upper river, from mile markers 8 to 12....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"BASALT — As of late, anglers have been few and far between on the normally bustling Fryingpan River. Believe it or not, May is the second slowest month of the year in terms of fishing pressure.
As hard as it to believe, there are more fishermen spread out along the river in December and January than there are in May. Don't let this fact fool you, though, as the fishing is pretty incredible right now. I can personally attest to that.
While driving along the 14-mile length of river between downtown Basalt and Ruedi Reservoir recently, I counted only 10 anglers, half of whom were strung out in the Toilet Bowl near the dam. With water flows hovering around 100 cubic feet per second, the fishing opportunities for anglers are supurb. Wading is easy and safe at these levels and the dry fly fishing has been sensational.
Good midge and blue-wing olive hatches are the norm along the river from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Generally speaking, look for fish to focus on midges during the first half of that time frame while the back half of that period is more blue-wing olive-oriented. With the low and clear water, dry-fly fishers will still want to utilize light tippets of 7x fluorocarbon. Even when nymph fishing, I still prefer to use 6x tippets to attach my first fly and 7x tippet to connect my dropper or second fly.
When dry-fly fishing on the Fryingpan, you'll want to cast downstream to the rising fish. This will allow the fish to see your fly first, instead of fly line, leader, tippet and then your fly. This trick especially comes into play when working over smart or pressured fish. The heaviest hatches have been taking place along the middle and upper river, from mile markers 8 to 12....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Steamboat Today "Romney to visit Craig on Tuesday"
Remember not too long ago when the Garfield County Republicans and the Glenwood Springs Post Independent mocked the idea that any big candidate would hit the rural parts of the Western Slope of Colorado?
Remember how that made conservatives in the area feel, that extra-large dose of good 'ol boys and girls club arrogance?
All common folk Frank Moe, up in Craig had to do was send a video to the Romney team.
Mitt Romney will be in Craig on Tuesday. If he's lucky, there won't be any GarCo GOP on hand for a photo op. Well.....probably not. Press and photo ops are pretty much the only thing GarCo GOP can be counted on to do repeatedly and well.
Here's to you, Frank Moe and all the folks up in Moffat County!
via Craig Daily Press and Steamboat Today:
"Craig — Frank Moe, owner of Deer Park Inn and Suites in Craig, sent Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign a video earlier this year produced by Energy America.
The video, titled “The Perfect Storm Over Craig, Colorado,” highlighted the community’s economic dependence on the energy industry.
Along with the video was an invitation from Moe to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee to visit Craig.
“We (thought) this would be a good place for him to make the point that he is (in favor of) all forms of energy,” Moe said.
On Thursday, Romney staffers called Moe and said the campaign was considering Craig as a campaign stop.
The trip was booked Friday.
Romney spokeswoman Sarah Pompei said the former Massachusetts governor will appear for a public event at 9 a.m. Tuesday downtown. Additional visit details could be released this weekend, Pompei said.
“When the Romney campaign called us, tears rushed over us because now Craig has the opportunity to tell its story to the entire nation,” an emotional Moe said Friday night...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
Remember how that made conservatives in the area feel, that extra-large dose of good 'ol boys and girls club arrogance?
All common folk Frank Moe, up in Craig had to do was send a video to the Romney team.
Mitt Romney will be in Craig on Tuesday. If he's lucky, there won't be any GarCo GOP on hand for a photo op. Well.....probably not. Press and photo ops are pretty much the only thing GarCo GOP can be counted on to do repeatedly and well.
Here's to you, Frank Moe and all the folks up in Moffat County!
via Craig Daily Press and Steamboat Today:
"Craig — Frank Moe, owner of Deer Park Inn and Suites in Craig, sent Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign a video earlier this year produced by Energy America.
The video, titled “The Perfect Storm Over Craig, Colorado,” highlighted the community’s economic dependence on the energy industry.
Along with the video was an invitation from Moe to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee to visit Craig.
“We (thought) this would be a good place for him to make the point that he is (in favor of) all forms of energy,” Moe said.
On Thursday, Romney staffers called Moe and said the campaign was considering Craig as a campaign stop.
The trip was booked Friday.
Romney spokeswoman Sarah Pompei said the former Massachusetts governor will appear for a public event at 9 a.m. Tuesday downtown. Additional visit details could be released this weekend, Pompei said.
“When the Romney campaign called us, tears rushed over us because now Craig has the opportunity to tell its story to the entire nation,” an emotional Moe said Friday night...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
SandBoxBlogs: Red State "Electoral implications of the Obama Administration’s War on Coal "
Moe Lane Diary:
"…which shows the top sixteen coal-producing states in the USA. There’s a total of 182 Electoral Votes at stake, there – and in 2008 there were 180. Obama actually won coal-producing states in 2008, 100 to 80; and if no states flip in November, he’ll win them, 96 to 86. Except that… states are going to flip.
Indiana’s already gone; and of the remaining six Obama states only New Mexico and Illinois are not considered toss-ups. The administration’s relentless hostility towards coal production and use may have already contributed to Democratic electoral disaster: since Obama took office the state governments and legislatures of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia have all been taken over by Republicans; in Colorado we flipped the House of Representatives; and in New Mexico we captured the governorship. Heck, we even gained seats in the Illinois legislature, and came very close to winning the governorship.
The question is, is it fair to wonder whether coal will make things worse for the Democrats? I think so....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"…which shows the top sixteen coal-producing states in the USA. There’s a total of 182 Electoral Votes at stake, there – and in 2008 there were 180. Obama actually won coal-producing states in 2008, 100 to 80; and if no states flip in November, he’ll win them, 96 to 86. Except that… states are going to flip.
Indiana’s already gone; and of the remaining six Obama states only New Mexico and Illinois are not considered toss-ups. The administration’s relentless hostility towards coal production and use may have already contributed to Democratic electoral disaster: since Obama took office the state governments and legislatures of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia have all been taken over by Republicans; in Colorado we flipped the House of Representatives; and in New Mexico we captured the governorship. Heck, we even gained seats in the Illinois legislature, and came very close to winning the governorship.
The question is, is it fair to wonder whether coal will make things worse for the Democrats? I think so....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill's Congress Blog "Our fallen heroes remind us of our greatness"
Sen. Joe Lieberman:
"This past August, I attended the funeral of Brian Bill — a Stamford, Conn., native and Navy SEAL who perished along with 29 other American service members and eight Afghans when their Chinook helicopter was shot down during a rescue mission in eastern Afghanistan.
Bill was a remarkable young man who led a life of service, achievement and significance. He was an accomplished skier, mountaineer, pilot and triathlete. He was fluent in French and self-taught in Russian. He had plans after completing his military service of going to graduate school and becoming an astronaut. For Bill’s future, the sky had no limit.
Above all, Bill was a patriot. He made the choice to dedicate his life to a cause greater than himself, and that cause was our country.
On this Memorial Day, we remember fallen heroes like Bill — a pantheon of extraordinary American men and women whose service and sacrifice span our history and have, quite literally, made America possible. From the beaches of Normandy to the orchards of Kandahar, from Bunker Hill to Chosin, and from Little Round Top to Sadr City, we owe our liberty and security as a nation to the courageous Americans who never came home from these places, and to those heroes — family and friends, neighbors and strangers — who survived....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"This past August, I attended the funeral of Brian Bill — a Stamford, Conn., native and Navy SEAL who perished along with 29 other American service members and eight Afghans when their Chinook helicopter was shot down during a rescue mission in eastern Afghanistan.
Bill was a remarkable young man who led a life of service, achievement and significance. He was an accomplished skier, mountaineer, pilot and triathlete. He was fluent in French and self-taught in Russian. He had plans after completing his military service of going to graduate school and becoming an astronaut. For Bill’s future, the sky had no limit.
Above all, Bill was a patriot. He made the choice to dedicate his life to a cause greater than himself, and that cause was our country.
On this Memorial Day, we remember fallen heroes like Bill — a pantheon of extraordinary American men and women whose service and sacrifice span our history and have, quite literally, made America possible. From the beaches of Normandy to the orchards of Kandahar, from Bunker Hill to Chosin, and from Little Round Top to Sadr City, we owe our liberty and security as a nation to the courageous Americans who never came home from these places, and to those heroes — family and friends, neighbors and strangers — who survived....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill's Congress Blog "Everyone can find a way to honor our service members"
Dr. Jill Biden:
"Over the past few years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to spend time with our veterans, troops and military families. With every visit, I come away inspired.
They are military spouses, who balance work, family and school — all while dealing with the emotions of a deployment. They are military children, who move from school to school while picking up extra chores while their dad or mom is away serving our country. They are survivors of our fallen, who are pillars of strength for their communities. And of course, they are our troops, veterans and wounded warriors, who have dedicated their lives to defending America.
This Memorial Day, we must remember that these heroes are found in every corner of our country, from big cities to rural areas, from base communities to small towns. But no matter where they are assigned or what their duties are, when our service members are called to serve, so too are their families...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Over the past few years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to spend time with our veterans, troops and military families. With every visit, I come away inspired.
They are military spouses, who balance work, family and school — all while dealing with the emotions of a deployment. They are military children, who move from school to school while picking up extra chores while their dad or mom is away serving our country. They are survivors of our fallen, who are pillars of strength for their communities. And of course, they are our troops, veterans and wounded warriors, who have dedicated their lives to defending America.
This Memorial Day, we must remember that these heroes are found in every corner of our country, from big cities to rural areas, from base communities to small towns. But no matter where they are assigned or what their duties are, when our service members are called to serve, so too are their families...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Officers at Southern Texas Port of Entry Foil Cocaine Smuggler"
"Eagle Pass, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Eagle Pass port of entry Friday seized more than 12 pounds of cocaine from a vehicle entering the country from Mexico.
Friday afternoon, CBP officers at Eagle Pass Bridge No. 1 referred a 1997 Buick LeSabre driven by a 27-year-old Mexican citizen Piedras Negras, for intensive inspection. Officers scanned the car using a non-intrusive imaging system and discovered six electrical tape-wrapped packages hidden inside the vehicle. A field test revealed that the packages contained a total of 12.67 pounds of cocaine, worth an estimated $405,504.
The suspect was turned over to agents of Homeland Security Investigations.
“The persistence of our CBP officers, coupled with their training, was instrumental in preventing this load of narcotics from reaching America’s streets,” said CBP Port Director Cynthia O. Rodriguez. “Our frontline officers continue to keep a step ahead of would-be smugglers.”
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 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: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Foils Huge Drug Smuggling Attempt"
"Tucson, Ariz. – Agents from CBP's Tucson Sector, Sonoita Border Patrol Station seized 6,153 pounds of marijuana yesterday worth more than $3 million.
Agents responded to a call of two suspicious vehicles parked east of Patagonia, Ariz. At the scene, agents discovered two abandoned vehicles loaded with 604 bundles of marijuana. The narcotics, worth approximately $3,076,500, and vehicles were seized. The Drug Enforcement Administration will take possession of the marijuana.
“This seizure shows how elements of our national strategy work when resourceful agents use information and relations to target and dismantle transnational criminal organizations operating within our border communities,” stated Patrol Agent in Charge Michael G. Hyatt of the Sonoita Station.
The Tucson Sector, employing targeted enforcement tactics, is making significant progress along the Arizona/Mexico border by tracking down and prosecuting smugglers attempting to transport contraband further into the United States. Stiff penalties for smuggling also cause many smugglers to abandon their drug loads rather than risk apprehension and federal prosecution.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free.
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 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: Greeley Tribune "18th Street Gang member back in Weld County Jail"
via Greeley Tribune:
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"An 18th Street Gang member who has been serving time in federal prison is back in Weld County Jail after the U.S. Attorney’s Office turned the case back over to the Weld District Attorney.
Marcel Preece, 33, of Gill, had just been released from prison and was on parole in early November last year when he was arrested in an undercover gun sale. A search warrant was executed on a residence, and Greeley police found a third weapon and illicit drugs.
The case could have been tried at either the state or federal level. After the federal court took the case, they reviewed it with the Weld County District Attorney’s Office and determined it would be best prosecuted in Weld.
In addition to being charged with two felony counts for selling the guns, Preece is also charged with two felony counts of possession of a weapon by a previous offender. He faces up to 15 years in prison because he could be considered a career criminal, according to court documents.
Preece is due in court at 1:30 p.m. June 6....." (Read original release? Click title)
Marcel Preece, 33, of Gill, had just been released from prison and was on parole in early November last year when he was arrested in an undercover gun sale. A search warrant was executed on a residence, and Greeley police found a third weapon and illicit drugs.
The case could have been tried at either the state or federal level. After the federal court took the case, they reviewed it with the Weld County District Attorney’s Office and determined it would be best prosecuted in Weld.
In addition to being charged with two felony counts for selling the guns, Preece is also charged with two felony counts of possession of a weapon by a previous offender. He faces up to 15 years in prison because he could be considered a career criminal, according to court documents.
Preece is due in court at 1:30 p.m. June 6....." (Read original release? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Examiner "Denver police arrest 35 in week-long prostitution sweep"
Ken Green:
"A weeklong prostitution sting in the Denver area has resulted in the arrest of 35 people, including 29 “johns”, the Denver Police Department reported Thursday.
The reverse prostitution “John Stings” were conducted by the DPD’s Vice Unit and focused on the North and West area of Denver. DPD said it had received numerous complaints from residents regarding alleged solicitation and prostitution.
Police reported that 29 individuals were arrested for “Solicitation of Prostitution” and/or “Agreeing to an Act of Prostitution” and 23 vehicles were seized. In addition, the multi-level street prostitution sweet also resulted in the arrest of six alleged prostitutes. DPD said that the total of 35 arrests this past week also included those arrested for prostitution-related activities and outstanding arrest warrants.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A weeklong prostitution sting in the Denver area has resulted in the arrest of 35 people, including 29 “johns”, the Denver Police Department reported Thursday.
The reverse prostitution “John Stings” were conducted by the DPD’s Vice Unit and focused on the North and West area of Denver. DPD said it had received numerous complaints from residents regarding alleged solicitation and prostitution.
Police reported that 29 individuals were arrested for “Solicitation of Prostitution” and/or “Agreeing to an Act of Prostitution” and 23 vehicles were seized. In addition, the multi-level street prostitution sweet also resulted in the arrest of six alleged prostitutes. DPD said that the total of 35 arrests this past week also included those arrested for prostitution-related activities and outstanding arrest warrants.
Earlier this year, 14 people were indicted by the Colorado Attorney General on charges of human trafficking and running a child prostitution ring that include locations from Denver to Grand Junction....."
(Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "District Attorney Motions to Dismiss Charges Against Kirk Firko"
After all DA Pete Hautzinger put Gene Lawyer and his family through, it hardly seems just or anywhere near fair that the likely real culprit of Kirk Firko escapes without a trial.
Unlike Trooper Lawyer's posts where SandBox blocked public commentary for the sake of Lawyer and his family, comment ability on this highly political move of Hautzingers is wide open.
Cori Coffin:
"MESA COUNTY, Colo.- A CSP trooper involved in a deadly shooting may no longer be prosecuted.
Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger has filed a motion to drop all charges against Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Firko was accused, along with State Trooper Ivan Lawyer, of negligent homicide and felony trespassing in connection to the shooting death of Jason Kemp.
Earlier this month, Lawyer was acquitted of all charges relating to Kemp's death.
Firko's trial was set to begin July 16.
In the motion to dismiss, Hautzinger said, "The people conclude that there is not sufficient reasonable likelihood of a Mesa County jury being unanimously convinced beyond a reasonable doubt of defendant Firko's guilt to justify going forward with another lengthy jury trial."
The DA went on to say that even though the people believe they don't have a case against Firko, the motion to dismiss is in no way an endorsement of Firko's or Lawyer's actions and the legality of them...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Unlike Trooper Lawyer's posts where SandBox blocked public commentary for the sake of Lawyer and his family, comment ability on this highly political move of Hautzingers is wide open.
Cori Coffin:
"MESA COUNTY, Colo.- A CSP trooper involved in a deadly shooting may no longer be prosecuted.
Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger has filed a motion to drop all charges against Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Firko was accused, along with State Trooper Ivan Lawyer, of negligent homicide and felony trespassing in connection to the shooting death of Jason Kemp.
Earlier this month, Lawyer was acquitted of all charges relating to Kemp's death.
Firko's trial was set to begin July 16.
In the motion to dismiss, Hautzinger said, "The people conclude that there is not sufficient reasonable likelihood of a Mesa County jury being unanimously convinced beyond a reasonable doubt of defendant Firko's guilt to justify going forward with another lengthy jury trial."
The DA went on to say that even though the people believe they don't have a case against Firko, the motion to dismiss is in no way an endorsement of Firko's or Lawyer's actions and the legality of them...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "Poverty a persistent and growing issue in Summit County"
Kathryn Corazzelli:
"....Summit Community Care Clinic executive director Sarah Vaine, a panelist at the event, said she appreciates the data, and finds it valuable and validating.
“If you're working with families that are struggling, it's hard to illustrate that it's happening,” she said. “This kind of data helps us understand where we can target some of those efforts, to discourage the disparities in health and education.”
Those disparities in health, wealth and education aren't seen by many, Vaine said, and predisposes children who end up with the shorter end of the stick with less opportunity.
Children who go to school with empty stomachs, or worried about things like their parents' financial woes, have a harder time learning and just don't do as well in class, panel member and Summit School District board member Sue Wilcox said.
“It's all related,” she said. “I'm shocked at the poverty levels and how they're growing.”
A past Summit Daily News article chronicling the high number of children who qualified for the free-and-reduced lunch program was not believed by some people Davidson talked to — they thought the numbers were wrong, he said.
“You may not be aware of what's going on in your own county,” Davidson said. “You may not see it.”
Children's Campaign president and CEO Chris Watney urged attendees to make sure the data for Summit, and all of Colorado, is well-publicized in order to spur change.
“As we reflect on this year's legislative session and prepare for election season, we believe this report will enable advocates across the state to highlight children's issues and bring this data to life,” Watney said. “Today's discussion reminded us that the numbers represent real children and families in our state, many of whom are struggling. We must continue to serve as a voice for vulnerable kids as decisions are being made that impact their lives.” (Read more of the article? Click title)
"....Summit Community Care Clinic executive director Sarah Vaine, a panelist at the event, said she appreciates the data, and finds it valuable and validating.
“If you're working with families that are struggling, it's hard to illustrate that it's happening,” she said. “This kind of data helps us understand where we can target some of those efforts, to discourage the disparities in health and education.”
Those disparities in health, wealth and education aren't seen by many, Vaine said, and predisposes children who end up with the shorter end of the stick with less opportunity.
Children who go to school with empty stomachs, or worried about things like their parents' financial woes, have a harder time learning and just don't do as well in class, panel member and Summit School District board member Sue Wilcox said.
“It's all related,” she said. “I'm shocked at the poverty levels and how they're growing.”
A past Summit Daily News article chronicling the high number of children who qualified for the free-and-reduced lunch program was not believed by some people Davidson talked to — they thought the numbers were wrong, he said.
“You may not be aware of what's going on in your own county,” Davidson said. “You may not see it.”
Children's Campaign president and CEO Chris Watney urged attendees to make sure the data for Summit, and all of Colorado, is well-publicized in order to spur change.
“As we reflect on this year's legislative session and prepare for election season, we believe this report will enable advocates across the state to highlight children's issues and bring this data to life,” Watney said. “Today's discussion reminded us that the numbers represent real children and families in our state, many of whom are struggling. We must continue to serve as a voice for vulnerable kids as decisions are being made that impact their lives.” (Read more of the article? Click title)
View the full report:To access the full 2011 KIDS COUNT in Colorado! report, visit www.coloradokids.org/data/publications/2012kidscount.html "Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Cliffhanger coaster under construction"
(See related posts and public comments here and here)
John Colson:
"....It was quite a feat getting the Cliffhanger here from Branson, Mo., where it sat idle at the Celebration City amusement park from 2009-2011, Heard said.
The Italian-made ride was new when it was erected in Branson, and ran for about five years before it was shut down for financial reasons, she explained.
Adventure Park maintenance manager Kelly Bates (known as “the master” among the park's crew) is project manager for the Cliffhanger.
Bates knew of the idled ride, and started negotiating to buy it before it was even advertised for sale, Heard said.
She said the Adventure Park was competing against Elitch Gardens in Denver and Darien Lake Theme Park near Buffalo, New York, to buy the used coaster.
The negotiations resulted in a purchase price of $375,000 for the roller coaster, Heard said. The total cost of disassembly, repairs made to the structure in Branson and to the cars in Florida, and reassembly in Glenwood Springs is expected to be about $800,000.
The Adventure Park bought 1,400 new bolts for the reassembly, including 700 special bolts, 14 inches long with metric threads, used to hold the sections of track together.
“That's 50 grand just in hardware,” she said of the bolts.
Then came the difficulty of transporting the disassembled, refurbished structure to Glenwood Springs.
Heard said it was difficult to sign up a dozen independent truckers, the number needed to ship the disassembled structure to Glenwood Springs.
The difficulty, she said, was that “there's not much return freight” for trucks to pick up once they unload in Glenwood, and an empty truck is something independent truckers try to avoid.
Instead, Heard said, the Beckleys turned to shipping brokers, who were able to find the needed trucks.
But sometimes several rigs would show up at once, both in Branson to pick up their loads and in Glenwood Springs to unload, she said, prompting a mad scramble for work crews.
“It was feast or famine,” Heard said with a wry expression.
Once the trucks arrived in Glenwood Springs, the loads had to be hauled up the mountain to the Adventure Park site.
That job went to Bates, who would meet the trucks at the gondola base and immediately lead them up Transfer Trail. He stayed mum about the steep, twisty route they were about to drive up.
“We had all these flatland truckers with no experience in mountain driving,” Heard recalled.
“A lot of them didn't quite appreciate being suckered into that,” Heard laughed. “None of them made a second trip....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
John Colson:
"....It was quite a feat getting the Cliffhanger here from Branson, Mo., where it sat idle at the Celebration City amusement park from 2009-2011, Heard said.
The Italian-made ride was new when it was erected in Branson, and ran for about five years before it was shut down for financial reasons, she explained.
Adventure Park maintenance manager Kelly Bates (known as “the master” among the park's crew) is project manager for the Cliffhanger.
Bates knew of the idled ride, and started negotiating to buy it before it was even advertised for sale, Heard said.
She said the Adventure Park was competing against Elitch Gardens in Denver and Darien Lake Theme Park near Buffalo, New York, to buy the used coaster.
The negotiations resulted in a purchase price of $375,000 for the roller coaster, Heard said. The total cost of disassembly, repairs made to the structure in Branson and to the cars in Florida, and reassembly in Glenwood Springs is expected to be about $800,000.
The Adventure Park bought 1,400 new bolts for the reassembly, including 700 special bolts, 14 inches long with metric threads, used to hold the sections of track together.
“That's 50 grand just in hardware,” she said of the bolts.
Then came the difficulty of transporting the disassembled, refurbished structure to Glenwood Springs.
Heard said it was difficult to sign up a dozen independent truckers, the number needed to ship the disassembled structure to Glenwood Springs.
The difficulty, she said, was that “there's not much return freight” for trucks to pick up once they unload in Glenwood, and an empty truck is something independent truckers try to avoid.
Instead, Heard said, the Beckleys turned to shipping brokers, who were able to find the needed trucks.
But sometimes several rigs would show up at once, both in Branson to pick up their loads and in Glenwood Springs to unload, she said, prompting a mad scramble for work crews.
“It was feast or famine,” Heard said with a wry expression.
Once the trucks arrived in Glenwood Springs, the loads had to be hauled up the mountain to the Adventure Park site.
That job went to Bates, who would meet the trucks at the gondola base and immediately lead them up Transfer Trail. He stayed mum about the steep, twisty route they were about to drive up.
“We had all these flatland truckers with no experience in mountain driving,” Heard recalled.
“A lot of them didn't quite appreciate being suckered into that,” Heard laughed. “None of them made a second trip....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Can high-priced Aspen support a low-priced lodge?"
Curtis Wackerle:
"With average hotel prices spiking 40 percent between 2003 and 2007, a recently released city of Aspen lodging study opens a window on the question of government’s role in encouraging less expensive options.
“Think of it as an existing conditions report,” said city long-range planner Jessica Garrow.
The 29-page study was based on conversations with a majority of lodge operators in Aspen, who were asked to provide their number of rooms, as well as average room sizes. The report also includes interviews with 13 operators from all sectors of Aspen’s lodging inventory. Planners are working on a second phase of the report that delves more deeply into the question of what more, if anything, the city government should do to impact the local lodging market.
Trying to beef up the lower end of the market to help attract the next generation to Aspen is a goal outlined in the latest edition of the Aspen Area Community Plan, adopted this year. City Council made studying the feasibility of such a concept a top-10 goal last summer.
With the city owning numerous properties around town, some have suggested that donating or selling the land at a reduce price to an affordable lodging developer, or providing zoning bonuses to those who do it on their own property, could be a way to make a project happen.
The report includes a history of lodging development and government policy in town from the 1960s through the last decade. It summarizes the types of lodging available in Aspen today, community desires for the bed base expressed through the Aspen Area Community Plan process and the perceived feasibility of further government action to encourage lower-priced options in the increasingly high-priced zip code.
“City government has played a wide variety of roles in Aspen’s lodging inventory over the years, ranging from the philosopher-sociologist to the market economist —and at times, financial supporter,” reads the report, produced by Garrow and city consulting planner Ben Gagnon.
Aspen lost some 27 percent of its total bed base inventory between 1994 and 2007, according to the 2008 “State of the Aspen Area” study, with a majority of the loss in the economy sector. Even with the decline in pillows, lodging tax revenues jumped 49 percent, reflecting a 40 percent increase in pricing. Second homes also are now playing a larger role in tourism accommodations...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"With average hotel prices spiking 40 percent between 2003 and 2007, a recently released city of Aspen lodging study opens a window on the question of government’s role in encouraging less expensive options.
“Think of it as an existing conditions report,” said city long-range planner Jessica Garrow.
The 29-page study was based on conversations with a majority of lodge operators in Aspen, who were asked to provide their number of rooms, as well as average room sizes. The report also includes interviews with 13 operators from all sectors of Aspen’s lodging inventory. Planners are working on a second phase of the report that delves more deeply into the question of what more, if anything, the city government should do to impact the local lodging market.
Trying to beef up the lower end of the market to help attract the next generation to Aspen is a goal outlined in the latest edition of the Aspen Area Community Plan, adopted this year. City Council made studying the feasibility of such a concept a top-10 goal last summer.
With the city owning numerous properties around town, some have suggested that donating or selling the land at a reduce price to an affordable lodging developer, or providing zoning bonuses to those who do it on their own property, could be a way to make a project happen.
The report includes a history of lodging development and government policy in town from the 1960s through the last decade. It summarizes the types of lodging available in Aspen today, community desires for the bed base expressed through the Aspen Area Community Plan process and the perceived feasibility of further government action to encourage lower-priced options in the increasingly high-priced zip code.
“City government has played a wide variety of roles in Aspen’s lodging inventory over the years, ranging from the philosopher-sociologist to the market economist —and at times, financial supporter,” reads the report, produced by Garrow and city consulting planner Ben Gagnon.
Aspen lost some 27 percent of its total bed base inventory between 1994 and 2007, according to the 2008 “State of the Aspen Area” study, with a majority of the loss in the economy sector. Even with the decline in pillows, lodging tax revenues jumped 49 percent, reflecting a 40 percent increase in pricing. Second homes also are now playing a larger role in tourism accommodations...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "Downtown Montrose Becomes New Fad"
Courtney Griffin:
"MONTROSE, Colo.- Downtown Montrose is blossoming with new events, farmer's markets and stores this summer.
Scott Shine, manager of the Downtown Development Authority, says within the last couple of months, it’s really become the place for people to be. “We've had some businesses move into the district that were operating outside of downtown that have come downtown to be a part of what's happening down here, so we think that's a positive sign.”
With vacant building signs vanishing, the downtown area is a place where people can go shopping, look for home décor and enjoy eateries.
One business owner who has been downtown for 30 years said in the past couple of years business has really picked up. “It seems to be picking up every day. We see people from out of town shopping and I’m very encouraged by the traffic that we’re seeing," said Glee Westcott, owner of Tiffany Etc.
With many new events going into the downtown area, one event in particular will be going on all summer long. Main in Motion is an event starting June 7 and brings between 3,000 and 5,000 people every Thursday, lasting until August 23....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"MONTROSE, Colo.- Downtown Montrose is blossoming with new events, farmer's markets and stores this summer.
Scott Shine, manager of the Downtown Development Authority, says within the last couple of months, it’s really become the place for people to be. “We've had some businesses move into the district that were operating outside of downtown that have come downtown to be a part of what's happening down here, so we think that's a positive sign.”
With vacant building signs vanishing, the downtown area is a place where people can go shopping, look for home décor and enjoy eateries.
One business owner who has been downtown for 30 years said in the past couple of years business has really picked up. “It seems to be picking up every day. We see people from out of town shopping and I’m very encouraged by the traffic that we’re seeing," said Glee Westcott, owner of Tiffany Etc.
With many new events going into the downtown area, one event in particular will be going on all summer long. Main in Motion is an event starting June 7 and brings between 3,000 and 5,000 people every Thursday, lasting until August 23....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "Colorado Receives $5 Million in Grants to Keep Jobs Local"
Danielle Kreuther:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- The U.S. Department of Labor has provided more than $200 million in grants to help raise technical skills of U.S. workers.
Workforce officials say these grants are made with the goal of raising the skill levels of U.S. workers. The hope is that this will not only reduce the number of foreign workers being hired for high skill, high paying jobs in the U.S., but also make local businesses more competitive.
"The technology now coming out, a lot of times requires upgrading your training on a regular basis, so if we're able to provide that training, it keeps our local companies competitive," said Suzie Miller of the Mesa County Workforce Center.
The USDOL is helping foot the bill for that training by giving $5 million in grants to help train incumbent workers in Colorado.
The grants are financed by fees in occupations and industries where employers were using H-1B visas to hire foreign workers...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- The U.S. Department of Labor has provided more than $200 million in grants to help raise technical skills of U.S. workers.
Workforce officials say these grants are made with the goal of raising the skill levels of U.S. workers. The hope is that this will not only reduce the number of foreign workers being hired for high skill, high paying jobs in the U.S., but also make local businesses more competitive.
"The technology now coming out, a lot of times requires upgrading your training on a regular basis, so if we're able to provide that training, it keeps our local companies competitive," said Suzie Miller of the Mesa County Workforce Center.
The USDOL is helping foot the bill for that training by giving $5 million in grants to help train incumbent workers in Colorado.
The grants are financed by fees in occupations and industries where employers were using H-1B visas to hire foreign workers...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Citizen Telegram " Natural Soda expansion could mean jobs for Rifle workers"
Mike McKibbin:
"Construction is due to start soon on a $30 million expansion of the Natural Soda sodium bicarbonate mining operation in Rio Blanco County, 50 miles northwest of Rifle.
That will mean jobs for Rifle area construction workers, and the chance of landing some of the up to 10 permanent jobs when the project is done.
Officials, including Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, May 21, to launch the expansion project.
Bob Warneke, vice president of operations at the plant, said the construction project will provide work for around 60 contractors. Many of those workers will be bused to the Natural Soda site from Rifle, Meeker and Rangely, he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Construction is due to start soon on a $30 million expansion of the Natural Soda sodium bicarbonate mining operation in Rio Blanco County, 50 miles northwest of Rifle.
That will mean jobs for Rifle area construction workers, and the chance of landing some of the up to 10 permanent jobs when the project is done.
Officials, including Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, May 21, to launch the expansion project.
Bob Warneke, vice president of operations at the plant, said the construction project will provide work for around 60 contractors. Many of those workers will be bused to the Natural Soda site from Rifle, Meeker and Rangely, he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "Durango: Then and Now"
KREX:
"DURANGO, Colo.- Durango was recently voted the sixth best small town in America by Smithsonian Magazine...." (Read more? Listen to interview? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"DURANGO, Colo.- Durango was recently voted the sixth best small town in America by Smithsonian Magazine...." (Read more? Listen to interview? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KDNK "GarCo's New Way to Spend Oil and Gas Money"
KDNK:
"Garfield County commissioners met with Carbondale town trustees this week in part to talk about a funding program set up by the county to distribute money contributed to the county by the oil and gas industry.
KDNK's Eric Skalac spoke with commissioner Mike Samson after the meeting to find out what kind of projects these funds are meant for and about why they moved to this new system for spending oil and gas money." Click here to listen to podcast.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Garfield County commissioners met with Carbondale town trustees this week in part to talk about a funding program set up by the county to distribute money contributed to the county by the oil and gas industry.
KDNK's Eric Skalac spoke with commissioner Mike Samson after the meeting to find out what kind of projects these funds are meant for and about why they moved to this new system for spending oil and gas money." Click here to listen to podcast.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Friday Fotos: Waterfalls!"
All Credit Bob Berwyn (Click title):
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