SandBox Comments: Power Line "If Corporations Aren’t People, How Can They Be Greedy?"

The concept of SandBox Commentators is primarily based on the awareness that people are wired to talk.

The idea of a daily news summary blog, that only puts up the 'news' others report or publish, is fundamentally based on the awareness that individual free will is the most highly effective tool to eventually expose full disclosure and truth.

Let someone show you their real agenda, motivation, heart and soul by simply letting them have whatever they think is their heart's desire at any given point in time.

In the world of  24/7 'news', we take our small part of the world and simply look for patterns, organize the stories, toss them up and let free will and free speech reign.  Sort of like a tracking and filing system of 'news' that otherwise would be lost in the speed of light world of 24/7 media.

Amazing how effective and truly non-judgemental (no matter what kind of commentary is given) that can be.  When you're not the source of the report and others are; commentator opinions and views are the ultimate reveal of the consumer pulse.

For example, we've had a local opinion columnist and a very vocal local woman (both with far left of liberal views) pontificating and full-blown flaming the statement 'corporations are people too'.  Been listening to them for some time now on this particular topic.  Lordy, lordy!  How they've managed to stretch it out into so much spin, even SandBox had to stop tossing up their efforts just so we could take a little rest from overexertion. How patiently we've waited for these two die-hard drummers to realize the idiocy of their own words:

(whisper...whisper....now would be a good time to go up and re-read the title of this post....whisper...whisper....)

A very special thank you goes out to John Hinderaker over on Power Line for this terrific piece:

"...A few weeks ago, Mitt Romney observed that corporations are people. This prompted hysteria on the left, including a video produced by the Democratic Party. But of course Romney was right. A corporation consists of its owners, i.e. shareholders, and its employees–people. It is an elementary principle of law that a corporation can act only through its employees and agents–people. The Democrats’ apparent belief that you can hurt companies without hurting people is absurd. The corporation is merely a legal form in which people do business, now several hundred years old. It is absolutely necessary for any major commercial enterprise because its existence can continue without disruption beyond any one individual’s lifespan. So being “anti-corporation” is equivalent to being pro-medieval...."
(John Hinderaker)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident." 

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Richard Cohen "The irrationality that is Iran"

"A mere moment or two after the Obama administration announced it had discovered and thwarted a plot by Iran to murder Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States by bombing a Washington restaurant, the doubters started to air their doubts. Columnists and experts, even some columnists who were not experts, said the Iranians would never be so sloppy as to commit a virtual act of war by setting off a bomb in the nation’s capital. The plot was crazy, they said. I agree. But so is Iran...."
(Richard Cohen)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: The Guardian UK "Iran's alleged Mexican hitman was US drugs informant"

"The Iranian plot the US government says aimed to murder Saudi Arabia's ambassador to Washington allegedly fell down because a member of the Mexican Zeta drug cartel hired to carry out the job for $1.5m was actually a US informant.

The informant told the Drugs Enforcement Agency (DEA) in May that he had been contacted by alleged Iranian agent Manssor Arbabsiar. They held several meetings in Mexico which were taped. Methods discussed reportedly included a targeted assassination and a bomb...." 

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SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Your Letters "Schilling bears responsibility for officer's dual involvement"

Oh, puhhhleeeezze...

How could this one be so off the mark and so sanctimonious in this letter?

SandBox Nanny is pretty sure Chief Schilling feels for all sides in this but especially for Officer Agon.

One has to ask what the point of a letter like this is in the first place.

Especially when all one has to do is go to the Garfield County Sheriff website for Just the Facts.

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "Aspen Skiing Co. 'didn't do well enough' last season"

And yet, after hearing very specific and direct concerns, complaints and dissention from local, regional, national and international workers and customers; Aspen Skico still resorts to excuses and disinformation as propaganda to the masses.

Reality, is that Beaver Creek, Vail Resorts and Breckenridge refuse to discount rooms and hold sales.  Instead they offer more value and are light years ahead of Aspen Skico with pass offerings, infrastructure and overall guest experience.

What a shame Skico keeps making the situation worse by not accepting the fact that numbers steadily decline because...it's about them.

Here's to the little guy in Aspen.  Hanging on, hoping to survive the double dip recession while Aspen Skico stays flat.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Colorado News Agency "House’s Pace seeks more answers on overpayment glitch"

Sal Pace is going to need all the help he can get trying to wipe out Congressman Scott Tipton (R-Colorado).

Guess he's figuring he'll take whatever he can get.

Even a major problem in our outdated state technology that the Colorado GOP has been pounding for years on the Colorado Democrats to do something about.

Wonder if there will ever come a day when taxpayers can charge something like this outrageous overpayment to the 'guilty' 'party' that 'helped' the problem into existence?

"Democratic House Minority Leader Sal Pace, of Pueblo, fired off a letter today requesting that an audit of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment already underway be expanded to learn why  the Unemployment Insurance Division overpaid beneficiaries by $305 million in benefits.

“The overpayments should be of concern to every Coloradan,” Pace wrote in his letter to the Legislative Audit Committee.

Pace said it was recent reports of overpayments as well as a move by Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper—directing the department on Wednesday to work with the federal Department of Labor on adopting new strategies to detect, eliminate and recover overpayments—that prompted him to make the request.

Pace is asking for a review of how the overpayments happened, a look at  accounting procedures within the department’s Unemployment Insurance Division, and for recommendations to prevent any of it from happening again.

“We have an obligation to make sure we fully understand the extent of the problem,” said Pace.

Sen. Scott Renfroe, R-Greeley, who sits on the audit committee says he supports Pace’s request.

“It’s appropriate to ask for this,” said Renfroe. “Government needs to be efficient with taxpayer dollars. Clearly, shining a light on an area that may need correcting is the right thing to do.”

The Legislative Audit Committee must first approve the request before the state auditor can delve into the issues Pace raises...."
(Debi Brazzale, Colorado News Agency)

"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times/Letter to the Editor "Voters like Su Lum are the problem"

"Dear Editor:

After reading Su Lum's column in Wednesday's paper, I have to wonder why she is given space in your newspaper (“There's an election in progress, sort of,” Oct. 12, 2011, The Aspen Times.)..."
(James F. Dowley, Aspen Colorado)

Another 'well spotted' letter from a local.  This one up on The Aspen Times.

There are positive signs that Swift Communications is trying and in many areas succeeding, to clean up their publication and turn both The AspenTimes and Glenwood Springs Post Independent into publications we may someday be proud of again.  Especially The Times.  Who we must add, is almost there.

Better yet, the most positive change is out here in readers of these publications.  Have you noticed the major shift in power?

Folks pushed back the bully(s) and are now seeming to want the cleaner house to stay that way.

Where do readers go when the problem isn't bias, censorship, gonzo journalism, yellow ink and the love of just simply writing deceptive flamers?  Where do they go when the problem is the quality of the content?

Such as the opinion column of Su Lum.

Maybe they speak up.  If they care about the publication's business success.

If they don't care, they simply do their subscribing with The Aspen Daily and take advantage of the free copy of The Times and PI.  Figuring that sooner or later, the problem will resolve itself through the course of a natural business death. 

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident." 

SandBox Comments: Denver Post/Breaking News "Report: U.S. Pro Cycling Challenge brought 1 million fans and $83.5 million to Colorado"

Now, the big question on local's minds...is what is The City of Glenwood Springs going to do to cash in on the Pro Cycling frenzy?

"All of the sudden, Colorado has jumped to the top of wish lists for people around the country and the globe," said Al White , director of the Colorado Tourism Office...."

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Sheldon Fingerman "The Aspen money hole"

"Want to know where your tax money goes. Well, some of it is going into a hole in the ground thanks to Mick’s love of geothermal energy. You’ll also be pleased to know that in order to accomplish this, the city’s noise ordinance was increased to 80 decibels. Not terribly loud, but I wouldn’t want to be living near that site at 7 a.m. Yup. Let’s get rid of plastic bags and increase the noise.

And we’re also throwing money at attorneys. Mick seems so incensed that Marilyn Marks almost beat him he’s willing to take this ballot thing all the way to the Supreme Court on our dime. Mick, anybody who watched Grassroots TV already saw the ballots as they flashed by. I’m more concerned the mail-in ballot I just received has my name and address on the envelope. Whoever opens it can easily see who and what I voted for.

And Marks is right. What if the ballots had to be hand counted (remember Florida)? The money we’re spending on this is nuts. Anyway, you go girl.

We also lost money on the bicycle race, and now we’re prepared to spend more on the next one. As far as I’m concerned the episodes of the Bold and the Beautiful, featuring Aspen, did far more to help Aspen’s image than the bicycle races.

While I’m not a fan, I did watch some of the “Aspen” episodes and the town looked fantastic.

And speaking of bicycles: I can’t believe our money is also going to a bicycle-sharing program. According to the Aspen Daily News, the startup costs are going to be between $500,000 and $600,000. $600,000! That’s for eight kiosks and 100 bicycles. That’s $6000 per bike! You’ve got to be kidding! Can you say Solyndra?..."
(Sheldon Fingerman)

(Could Sheldon possibly have more to say?  Click title)

"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "State's MMJ Employees to Unionize"

Surely, they must be joking.

What a potential quagmire this will be if they're not.

With the chaos surrounding everything to do with Medical Marijuana in Colorado, one would think more common sense would prevail.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident." 

SandBox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "Chostner: DA fought a losing battle "

Destined to be a flamer of a political race for 10th Judicial District DA, incumbent Bill Thiebaut and challenger Jeff Chostner are back in the news.

The duration of this race should be closely watched by tuning in to commentary.  Pueblo folks have proven they have some things to say on this one.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Local News Briefs "Biz-Opoly trade fair emphasizes ‘buy local' options"

The latest gimmick from the 81601 tourism marketing vendor: Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association, previously met with such scathing negative reviews all over the region in  commentary; SandBox Nanny almost took pity on the concept by not tossing up the launch to the kids today.

Here's what changed her mind:

First, the population of 81601 was 'sold' on using the current marketing plan through the use of a lot of 'Big Talk'.  And the simultaneous oxymoron 'reality' of not having a public vote.  Just like so many things in Glenwood Springs such as medical marijuana, 'back-in' parking, The Ghettos 'improvements' and continued development, Midland Avenue, public art, 200 large+ spent on the concept of 7th Street's 'Sea World', the debacle of how poorly the construction is on the Community Center, traffic calming on Grand, the 'political statement' of the city's comprehensive plan, capital improvement projects using tens of millions of dollars of borrowed 'good deal' money in the middle of the first worst recesssion in history and the ongoing issues of major public relations problems; the folks really don't have any say at all in how they are led or how their tax dollars are spent.  Not really.  Not in Glenwood Springs.

The conclusion of her first point? 'Big talk' is not only paid 'Big Money' to perform; as a vendor trying to play in the same 'Big Leagues' as all the thriving tourism promoters surrounding 81601; the logical assumption is that they are "Big Kids" who should not be sheltered from the review of the general population they serve.

Nanny's second point, is that there are no city screened checks and balances on tourism marketing performance in Glenwood Springs.  We have no media that is not 'owned', we have a fledgling city council that is just finding its sea-legs in standing up to the rigors of performing sworn duty, we have a partially strong citizens tourism board that is heavily seeded with special interests, we hold the now three year rank of the lowest in the region when it comes to tourism and sales revenues (and) we can go nowhere in prosperity until we clear  a minimum 60% deficit in our tourism performance.

Simplistically, her point sums up to: 

Where, exactly, are the folks supposed to go in order to speak up freely if she doesn't toss this up out of her sincere feelings of pity on the cartoon concept of 'Glen Wood'?

As one more of her long-standing in the community business friends, recently decided they had no choice but to close their doors due to inability to withstand the continued 'year' of reckoning' here in Glenwood Springs...SandBox Nanny thinks it's best, now that the ink is nearly dry on the 'Big Deal', to let 'Big Kids' finally begin to first-time ever face the shock of being treated just like the rest of the business community.

A word of caution to commentators:

There is so much fodder in the truth here on this article, you have no reason whatsoever to get overly personal at any one individual.  You are being moderated closely on this one.  Stick to public information and public viewpoints only.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Casper Ghosts float into region as new Grand Junction Rockies"

Yowza!!

Congratulations to Grand Junction and all the folks in Mesa County!!

What a coup!!

Now, go after every single idea the folks in the Grand Valley and western I-70 towns of Battlement Mesa, Rifle and Silt have to help you (and them) bring in some regional tourism bucks.

"Goodbye, Casper Ghosts. Hello, Grand Junction Rockies.

"The only thing standing in the way of a minor league baseball team settling in Grand Junction is Monday’s City Council vote.

The owners of the Casper Ghosts, the Monfort Investment Group, met with city officials in Casper, Wyo., on Friday. After that meeting, they announced that, pending Monday’s vote, the team will move to Grand Junction for the 2012 season...."
(Patti Arnold)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "High court won’t hear DA’s appeal of sanctions"

"The Colorado Supreme Court has refused to hear an appeal by the head prosecutor of the 9th Judicial District regarding sanctions handed down by a local judge.

For what she called a series of blatant missteps involving pretrial evidence in five cases, Judge Gail Nichols of Pitkin County District Court in August punished the Aspen district attorney’s office by quashing a statement made by the defendant in an aggravated motor-vehicle theft case.

The judge also said she would not allow police photographs to be used at the trial of Jesus Aguilera-Pimentel. Without the statement and the pictures, Chief Deputy District Attorney Arnold Mordkin said he could not prosecute Aguilera-Pimentel, 25, of Carbondale.

District Attorney Martin Beeson appealed the sanctions to the state high court on Sept. 28. His office was notified just two days later that justices would not be reviewing Nichols’ decision...."
(Chad Abraham)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "Troopers honored for nabbing Doughertys "

SandBox sends a special thank you to all who assisted in this bust.

"Buneta and four other troopers who pursued the Dougherty siblings Aug. 10 through Pueblo and Huerfano counties along Interstate 25 were honored Thursday at a ceremony in Golden.

Buneta, and troopers Brian Kohnlein, Clayton Mock, Rodney Noga and Gary Schaaf were all recognized for their apprehension of Lee Grace Dougherty, Ryan Dougherty and Dylan Stanley-Dougherty.

Additional awards were presented to Capt. Brian Lyons, Sgt. Wallace Lathrop and police communication technician Michele Garcia.

The three good Samaritans who helped capture Ryan Dougherty also were recognized.

David Vucetich of Walsenburg, Dave Dallaguardia of Pueblo and Shane Zibinski of Trinidad were honored...."
(ANTHONY A. MESTAS and LORETTA SWORD)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident." 

SandBox Comments: Snomasokist/Johnny Boyd "Why I Quit “Snomasokist”"

“...I thought I could continue working for the corporation, but like all corporations there is always something lacking,” I said. “Things get done, but there is no heart. It became evident that CMNM had no intention of putting any effort into the Snowmass Sun. The new editor was probably low-balled on her pay, but the head honchos weren’t expecting much from her in return, so it didn’t matter. The Sun is being written by public relations and media affairs hacks that turn out press releases. The Sun prints them verbatim and sells advertising. Easy work if you can get it. When the advertisers wise up to the fact that they’re paying good money for an empty vessel, the paper will fold. I couldn’t be a part of that and look myself in the mirror.”

“You quit because the paper has no heart?” Jake asked, incredulously. “I didn’t think you had one...”
(Snomasokist)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Derek Franz "When a tree falls in the woods"

Become reacquainted with one of SandBox Nanny's favs.

Derek Franz.  Over on the Glenwood Springs Post Independent.

The very best writers are the ones who can take their heart and put everything they are inside into words that capture a feeling readers can relate to.

Not just write so that you understand a specific message. But write so that you can feel them, what makes them tick and the specific message they're conveying.    

Unless you are such a writer, you have no idea how very difficult that is to do when your own heart hurts.

Welcome back, Derek.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "Blame cronyism, not capitalism"

Melanie Sturm:

"...The income inequality the Occupy Wall Street protesters decry results from this crony capitalist system that allows policymakers to distribute economic favors to special interests in the form of bailouts, preferable tax treatment and favorable regulations.

Conversely, capitalists like Steve Jobs who rely on free markets, private financing, American ingenuity and hard work, create more prosperity for more people.

Most Americans don't need to Think Again. We prefer capitalists like Steve Jobs to “crony capitalists” like Fannie Mae, whose government-abetted ransacking of the economy is the root cause of Americans' despair..."

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Silt to keep 2012 budget tight, close to 2011 level"

Silt Mayor Dave Moore continues to set the example to all neighboring municipalities on how to live within your means.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Your Letters "Charge tuition instead of raising taxes"

Vote NO on 3E.

"...How can this district ask its friends and neighbors to fork over money they don't have? Consider a lesson from the business world: Learn to do more with less.

If these parents are so concerned about the quality of education available to their children, here's a thought: Ask them to pay for it.

It's not a secret that the local school St. Stephen's, operated by the Catholic Church, offers a superior education to that offered by its public counterparts. Yes, St. Stephen's charges tuition.

It's no wonder that the interest in establishing charter schools is at an all-time high. Why not adopt the school district's policy in Douglas County whereby taxpayers were returned some of their property taxes in exchange for the parent's right to send their children to either public or charter schools?

And just a reminder to the average taxpayer: Wait until Obamacare kicks in, and we will be asked to relinquish even more...."
(Karen Foster)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "New Atkinson Trail officially opened"

The controversial Atkinson Trail project is beautiful.

There is no doubt that 81601 will enjoy the amenity and the trail will eventually add tourism dollars to our economy.

Only problem left?

How to pay for it as we 'start' 'Glenwood Spring's 'Year of Reckoning'.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Denver Post/Breaking News "Sheriff: Jeffco inmate shot as he tries to escape"

"A jail inmate was shot this morning during an attempted escape by a deputy who was taking his charge to a medical facility, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office said.

The incident happened at about 11:40 a.m. in the 700 block of Heritage Road in Golden, said Mark Techmeyer, a sheriff's office spokesman.

A deputy was taking an inmate to undergo "medical imaging" when the inmate took off running, Techmeyer said.

The deputy gave chase and shot the escapee, Techmeyer said.

The inmate has been taken to a local hospital. The deputy was not hurt.

This story will be updated as details are released."
(Kieran Nicholson)

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SandBox Comments: Tree of Mamre/John Scotus "With Class Warfare, Be Careful What You Ask For"

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Coloradoan "Voters to decide on funding for operations, maintenance of Larimer County Jail"

"The financial future of the Larimer County Jail and potentially the county itself could be at stake in the Nov. 1 election.

Issue 1A on county ballots asks voters to consider repealing two 0.2 percent sales taxes and replacing them with a 0.375 percent tax to fund jail operations and other criminal justice programs...."
(via The Coloradan)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "City trips over its ego in Marks case"

"New reports also say the city thinks the court's decision is unnecessary because, in the city's unilateral view, the election was transparent enough. Well, that isn't the legal issue. Citizens have rights in this state that are not left totally to the discretion of city officials. That is the law, according to the Court of Appeals.

After reading the opinion I cannot help but conclude that the city is wasting everybody's time and money. This dispute is an argument looking for a reason; there is no reason, only emotion, ego and pride. Little people never admit mistakes. Big people admit mistakes and move on. Move on, Aspen...."(Maurice Emmer, Aspen)


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/John Colson "Driving job creation, energy savings"

The steady rising in caliber work of John Colson on his environmental reporting is noted.

One can pick up on, if they find the patience to give him a chance today; Colson trying to tune in to the more 'conservative' viewpoint.

SandBox Nanny once again tosses Colson to the 'kids'.  Where he will sink or swim.

With that said, she does have her own personal viewpoint on the topic of selling the value of 'clean energy jobs' and 'clean energy spending' to voters.

It's not that conservatives don't see the value.  They do see the need and they also see the long-term benefits.  The problem is the government's administration.  By the time these grants and loans are handed out, the only real monetary benefit there is goes to the business receiving that handout.  Conservatives believe in free market, entrepreneurial oriented 'green jobs'.

Take the government 'grants' and 'loans' out of the equation and the concept works.

A secondary problem is credibility.  Solyndra is going to have many consequences where public trust is concerned. CLEER, now becoming 'Garfield Clean Energy' is not free from alleged scandal.  Pretty tough to trust an organization when the public doesn't trust a few of the Trustees.  It would behoove Garfield Clean Energy to make sure their public relations are improved before they put out too much PR singing the praises of the programs they are pitching.

Nice work from John Colson today.  Over on The Glenwood Springs Post Independent.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "How’s that soap taste, son?"

As far as we're concerned, the fav columnist toss is between Danforth, Sturm, Nitze, Advice Goddess and Lorenzo Semple.

For this week, Semple wins.  (Read the whole thing..)

"Growing up in a small town like Aspen is cool because you know all the cops. Sure, we ran from them (still do), and got in trouble all the time, but I can’t recall ever being compelled to swear at a cop. Not to mention there’s way more creative ways to get under a policeman’s skin — verbally that is. See me in my office — Highlands Bowl — for a detailed list. All of them will work against your favor, guaranteed.

Swear words, phrases and such are fabric of our language and pop culture, but they also are like spices in the food we eat — too much can leave a bad taste in your mouth. Not to mention cussing shows a lack of intellect. That’s probably why I curse so much. It’s because you just can’t come up with another word. It makes you sound stupid. Regardless, it’s all protected free speech. The line of legalese becomes more blurry when these words are used with the intent of causing a violent reaction.

But when done right, a four-letter word can sound romantic, renegade, jubilant, contrarian and altogether appropriate. The comedian George Carlin was famous for his “Seven Dirtiest Words” skit. It’s a real knee-slapper. For some reason I’m particularly impressed when elderly people swear; toddlers and women too. Swearing in songs can pack a punch also, when done right. There’s a song by the Sex Pistols called “Bodies” that’s a good example of this. I always respected the stubborn artists who wouldn’t alter the lyrics of their songs for more exposure on the radio.  

The “F bomb” is one of the most versatile words in the English language. It can be used as a noun, a verb, an adjective, an adverb, an exclamation and a question. “Scarface” taught me that back in high school. I remember seeing the “F bomb” scratched on a bathroom stall in the Yellow Brick lower elementary school. It stood perfectly on its own, probably because the kid who put it there was actually incapable of writing anything else.

Thanks to our Constitution, these words are protected. Freedom of speech and thought are the foundation blocks of America. Try telling that to my grandmother. She was more interested in cleansing bad words from my mouth at an early age. I was in first grade at the time when I decided to push the envelope a little bit and try out a word in front of her. The word is totally innocuous — so much so that I can write it here now, even in a highly conservative publication such as this. The word in question: Kaka. It means poop, doo-doo, dookie, number two. I said that word in front of her while playing with plastic army men in the courtyard behind her apartment. It was a huge mistake.

She grabbed me by the arm and yanked me into the air, dragged me right into the kitchen and washed my mouth out with Ivory soap.."
(Lorenzo Semple)

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SandBox Comments: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel/Dennis Webb "Carbondale medical pot shop closed; owner held"

What a shame this had to happen now, just when locals are finally making some headway with local governments to take a second look at the viability of medical marijuana in our communities.

Now, the likelihood of 'spin-doctor' elected officials and journalists attempting to discredit the validity of those locals, will be able to point toward David Edgar and just chalk up the problems to a 'bad apple'.

Reality, is that medical marijuana is illegal on federal levels. The Feds can, will and are showing strong signs that they've warned enough already; shut down any marijuana use or enterprise.

On state and federal levels there is no banking ability, no ability to own or purchase a firearm if you are on file as a user of the drug. 

There is no ability to conduct business in the community with leases, credit card processing or obtaining insurances and loans. 

There is no ability, when the technical interpretation of Colorado law is upheld, to even operate a dispensary. 

Put all these things together with the 'bad apples' that sell without a buyer having an MMJ card.  Or worse, go to the lengths David Edgar has.  And we haven't even touched the moral differences of opinion, the politics or community impacts.

What a shame this bust happening now is.  SandBox hopes that local activists in Glenwood Springs and RE-1 don't get discouraged or allow certain elected officials who advocate MMJ to sway you off your path.

Maybe the entire situation will get 'lucky' and the Feds will finally shut down, rather than bust, a few local shops and grow operations that are simply trying to operate within state law.

We would agree with the Feds that enough warning has taken place.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "City council declines to discuss Re-1 override resolution"

Here is a terrific example of how well the folks are doing in catalyzing the entrenched Valley politics of the past into a more balanced voice of all our social communities.

It could be said that the folks have 'literally been held hostage' to that very powerful social and economic class that have run most of our local governments and business communities for the past decade or more.

The past three years have seen a rising up of the more 'common man' with an emphasis on that movement taking hold in the past year or so.

We have sat major change into our county commissioners spanning the Roaring Fork Valley and both sides of the I-70 corridor.  Same on our City Council and Trustee seats.  Volunteer boards now hold voice of the citizens and not just powerful business people who focus on individual bottom lines.  We have a lot of activism going on out here and the emotions, including anger, are at times palpable.

It is a very good feeling to watch the earlier stages of this movement to balance now be at a point where our new leadership is slowly starting to empower the folks.

A very special thank you to Glenwood Springs City Councilmen Todd Leahy, Mike Gamba and Ted Edmonds for voicing on behalf of what is actually the majority out here.  When you count the shadows too.

Let's take a look at some excerpts from John Stroud's reporting:


“I think it is important for us to chime in on all issues that impact the community, and this is one of them,” Steckler said. “If it fails, there will be all sorts of impacts in terms of maintaining strong schools. It's part of our leadership responsibility to discuss such matters.”

"Added McKinney, “The people of this community deserve to know where we stand, and I think that's very important.”

"Opponents of the measure say local taxpayers deserve a break, and that the school district should have to adjust its budget accordingly with the downturn in the economy."

“Every community has different politics, and we have to respect those individual barometers,” he said. (Matt Hamilton)"

“It's not appropriate for us to advise citizens how to vote on something that's not directly part of city government,” Councilman Ted Edmonds said at the Thursday evening City Council meeting."

“There are a lot of reasons to support the tax, and I've heard a lot of arguments on the other side,” said Councilman Mike Gamba. “But it isn't our place to advise citizens how to vote.”

Now, let's see what the 'kids' have to say.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Glenwood Springs prepares for ‘year of reckoning'"

SandBox Nanny thanks City Manager, Jeff Hecksel and reporter John Stroud for this report being Mr. Hecksel's voice.

The commentary around the region is now going on aprx. five years with complaints, grumbling and visible angst from the folks who want to hear the state of the city from the leaders they vote in or pay the salaries of.

Here's to the beginning of a new era of public relations in Glenwood Springs.

SandBox Nanny can't imagine any of us not appreciating calm voices of true leadership releasing fully accurate and fully truthful information to the folks.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Legal teams argue over constitutionality of the police search in cocaine case"

"...Van Ness said his client was sophisticated when it came to knowing his rights, including making sure the gun and drugs were hidden as opposed to having them in plain sight, which would trigger a legal police search. Arapu had no motivation to let police into his home because those items were inside and because he was in the country illegally, the attorney said.

“Why he would invite Walter Chi in simply defies logic,” Van Ness said..."
(Chad Abraham)


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Tree of Mamre "Democrats Anonymous"

"Introducing Democrats Anonymous, for those who are ready to admit that their belief system has failed.."
(John Scotus)


(A must see.  Click title)

SandBox Comments: Intellectual Conservative "Is The State Bar of Arizona Targeting Conservatives For Blogging And Fighting Illegal Immigration?"

Very interesting case.  Be sure to click title and read the entire post.

"Politically motivated prosecutions are always an ugly business because politics is not supposed to stretch into the courtroom. Sadly, that appears to be news to the very liberal State Bar of Arizona. On Monday, the State Bar of Arizona began its prosecution of former Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas and two of his deputies, including Right Wing News blogger Rachel Alexander.

As County Attorney, Thomas represented Sheriff Joe Arpaio and he worked with Arizona’s conservative legislature, notably Senator Russell Pearce, sponsor of Arizona’s SB 1070, to get tough laws against illegal immigration passed. In 2006, four bills were referred to the ballot and passed into law against illegal immigration, passing with over 70% margins. One of them, Prop. 100, prohibited bail for illegal immigrants charged with felonies. It passed with 78% of the vote. After passage, Thomas began hearing from prosecutors in the office that judges were ignoring Prop. 100 and not enforcing it. Most of the Superior Court judges are extremely liberal, having been appointed by former Democrat Governor Janet Napolitano. Thomas resorted to legal action to get the Superior Court to enforce Prop. 100. He had to appeal to the Arizona Supreme Court to get the lower courts to enforce Prop. 100.

Thomas came up with a unique way to prosecute illegal immigrants with a felony, instead of just letting them go with a slap on the wrist. He used a felony smuggling statute to prosecute them, describing them as “smuggling themselves.” With a felony conviction, they would be required to serve time and would not be able to return to the U.S. He even distributed money — which was seized from racketeering funds — to programs for youth run by the Boy Scouts and churches. By law, that money is to be distributed to organizations that keep youth away from crime and drugs. Thomas ensured that it was no longer only distributed to left wing politically correct organizations. Due to the proactive efforts of Thomas, along with Joe Arpaio and Senator Russell Pearce, illegal immigration has greatly decreased in Arizona. The population of illegal immigrants dropped by one-third over two years...."

(John Hawkins)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Letter to the Editor " What is there to hide?"

"Well, here we go again. The City Council of Aspen has decided to appeal the ballot ruling. This is predictable and comical. What has become Aspen’s ultimate urination contest (this is a family newspaper) is back and swinging. Mayor Mick and city attorney John Worchester have persuaded the council members to use the tax payers money to appeal this ruling, either to get back at Marilyn Marks or to hide what could be an embarrassing and/or possibly a sinister situation.

The city could just walk away from the Colorado Court of Appeals decision, let Marks get her peak and be done with all this (that is of course if she doesn’t find something). I believe the city is hiding something. Why make this appeal? Is the city guilty of wrong doing or maybe they have destroyed the ballots?

The city has expended tax dollars in the original appeal and had to pay Mark’s attorney fees due their loss. Now they are going to spend more tax dollars and if they lose this round or the Colorado Supreme Court decides not to hear the case, the city will be out that money and will most likely have to pay Mark’s attorney fees again. Both sides have to spend money on attorneys regardless of the supreme court hearing the case or not.

Mayor Mick and the city believes that our tax dollars are their personal slush fund and this scenario is yet another example of their waste. It is time to wake up and stop this ridiculous expenditure. Lets try to spend our tax dollars on responsible projects and not wasteful boondoggles like frivolous lawsuits."
(James H. Perry )

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Garfield County commissioners, Vallario debate proposed 2012 sheriff's budget"

(sigh..rolls eyes...)

Ok, 'kids'.

You haven't had homework in some time.

Nanny senses some passive-aggressive angst seeping out from the PI in this news article on Sheriff Lou.

How about, before it gets out-of-hand  again, 'Ace Investigative Reporters, American Patriots!', gets to the bottom of this news on Sheriff Lou's budget?

Bring back the real story of what happened to put this routine annual budget evaluation into headline news over at the PI.

Ready?  Set?  Go!

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "Liaison Hopes to Help Community and Drilling Industry"

Great news. 

"Community Counts Colorado" has answered the call of a number of citizens out in the shadows to regroup, reorganize and get active again.

They are the alternative to the chaos and extremism of groups like Battlement Concerned Citizens and some of the folks up on Silt Mesa.

(whisper... whisper...and may SandBox Nanny indulge in just a little personal indulgence?...whisper...whisper...it's not 'pride', too much has been lost for that and the fully truthful reveal is that she would not have stepped up as #8 to harbor a safeplace if she hadn't been forced to...whisper..whisper...but...since she's here...she says to Community Counts Colorado....how very good your next statement quote feels....whisper...whisper..the shadows grow smaller... for so many reasons and so many people...whisper...whisper...and that is a very, very good thing...whisper...whisper...no, sandboxblogs and SandBox Nanny are not affiliated with Community Counts...whisper..whisper....)    

"That is where Community Counts steps in. "We're kind of just the Switzerland, if you want to say - a safe place for people to come look for answers and get educated," Mary Lou Wilson with the organization said..."
(Don Coleman)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Summit County Citizens Voice "Udall’s ski area summer-use bill passes the House"

Hooray!!

This is great news!

SandBox Nanny especially likes this 'streamlined voting procedure used to pass nonvontroversial bills that have bipartisan support'.

Thank you, Colorado Senator Mark Udall (D). 

"SUMMIT COUNTY — A measure that could help Colorado ski areas win approval for new on-mountain activities passed the House this week under a streamlined voting procedure used to pass noncontroversial bills that have bipartisan support.

The Ski Area Recreational Opportunity Enhancement Act of 2011 (H.R.765) amends the National Forest Ski Area Permit Act of 1986 to clarify what additional uses can be authorized by the U.S. Forest Service. Agency chief Tom Tidwell testified earlier this summer that the Forest Service is already starting to write a set of rules to implement the law if and when it passes. Read more here …

As resort-based recreation evolves, more ski areas have proposed activities that aren’t clearly covered by current Forest Service rules, including mountain roller coasters, zip lines and ropes courses. Some Forest Service rangers who administer ski area permits have asked for additional clarity on the rules..."
(Bob Berwyn)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Colorado Statesman " O! "

Detect a slight tone of skepticism as Obama declares himself "a warrior for the working class" here in Colorado?

"President Barack Obama brought the campaign for his jobs bill to a sun-drenched parking lot outside Abraham Lincoln High School in southwest Denver on Tuesday.

Calling himself a “warrior for the working class,” a peppy Obama repeatedly urged Republicans in Congress to “pass the bill,” a $447 million proposal he said combines tax cuts for working families and small businesses with increased spending on infrastructure and government jobs, including teachers..."

(Ernest Luning)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Scott Tipton "The GOP's balanced budget amendment deserves support"

He is not as polished or cerebral as Jared Polis, Mark Udall or Michael Bennet.

What gets mistaken and labeled as 'indecisive' is really the strong character trait of listening well.

If you really sit down and look hard at Scott Tipton and his politics, you will not find anything hard right or extreme.  There are so many issues that he walks with actually very moderate steps.

One of the reasons he is so strongly supported by unaffiliated conservatives on the Western Slope is because of his tenacity.

Scott Tipton goes the distance.

"We have a chance in Washington to do something responsible — pass a balanced budget amendment and force Congress to live within its means.

In the coming months, as part of the debt limit agreement reached in August, the House will vote on a balanced budget amendment. This Constitutional amendment would legally require Congress to do what American families do every day, and only spend as much as it takes in.

Amending the Constitution is not something to be taken lightly, and passage requires broad, bipartisan agreement: a two-thirds majority of the House and Senate, meaning 290 representatives and 67 senators.

Once the Amendment is passed by Congress, it would be sent to all 50 states for ratification. Currently, 49 states have some form of a balanced budget requirement in place.

The balanced budget amendment is not a radical idea, but a common sense solution that nearly passed 15 years ago. It failed in the Senate by a single vote...."
(Scott Tipton)


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."  

SandBox Comments: Greeley Tribune "Weld DA’s office donates more than 700 pounds of food to Weld Food Bank"

"Weld District Attorney Ken Buck and the DA’s office donated 733 pounds of food to the Weld Food Bank in September as part of Hunger Action Month.

“My office takes pride in doing great work both in and out of the courtroom, and the food drive is no exception,” Buck said in a news release. “I have always felt it is important to be a good neighbor in the community — both as an individual and as an agency. My employees feel the same and are always participating in events that benefit others in Weld County.”

The 733 pounds of food to the Food Bank, surpassing last year’s office donation by 236 percent, the release stated.

In addition to the canned food drive, the DA’s office, which employs about 70 people, sponsors an annual school supply drive, annual blood drive and participates in numerous other community activities, the release stated.

The 2011 donation brings the office’s donation total to the Weld Food Bank to 1,278 pounds of food, according to the release.

To find out how to help the Weld Food Bank, go to www.weldfoodbank.org.

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Thompson drilling decision ‘months away'"

SandBox Nanny sends out a thank you to John Colson for putting out this factual report.  It may not be balanced, but it is not a flamer either.

Maybe, just maybe, we'll all get lucky on this Monday morning and the 'kids' will react in a balanced manner.

As she reads this article and flags the statement by Farris below, she is reminded of an interpretation of Sun Tzu:

"One who does not thoroughly know the harm from employing the military, cannot thoroughly know the advantage from employing the military."

"Some of the leases are set to expire in 2012 or 2013, Farris said, and the coalition worries that unitization would prevent the expiration of those leases..."
(John Colson)

Wonder what would have happened if the Thompson Divide Coalition hadn't agreed to whipping themselves into a frenzy early on in this game over these mineral leases?

Could it be possible that instead of the 'eco-pen 'terrorist' ' tactic they had simply listened and investigated both sides of the controversy; they might have already had a viable solution on the table?

Thank goodness for U.S. Rep. ScottTipton (R-Colorado).

A man who prefers to listen first.

Good luck to all sides on this issue.  Maybe the folks will get really lucky and the Thompson Divide Coalition will spend 'these months' educating themselves on the incredible breakthroughs that have been made in environmental drilling.    

Jack Canyon and Desolation Canyon out in Utah with Bill Barrett Corp. (and) the work of EnCana come to mind.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: The Atlantic/Mickey Edwards "How to Turn Republicans and Democrats Into Americans"

"Angry and frustrated, American voters went to the polls in November 2010 to “take back” their country. Just as they had done in 2008. And 2006. And repeatedly for decades, whether it was Republicans or Democrats from whom they were taking the country back. No matter who was put in charge, things didn’t get better. They won’t this time, either; spending levels may go down, taxes may go up, budgets will change, but American government will go on the way it has, not as a collective enterprise but as a battle between warring tribes..."

(Mickey Edwards)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Craig Daily Press "Dinosaur officials: Casino could help revitalize economy"

It's big, big news.

That the Utes may build a casino in Dinosaur, Colorado.

Did you know that Johnny Boyd recently wrote an opinion column up on The Snowmass Sun, talking up the long-held view of locals that gaming should be brought into the area?

Have you been listening to the multitudes of downvalley locals who've talked up, for years now, bringing gaming in to Glenwood Springs and Rifle?

No?

Ah, then you might be 'one of those' in the deaf, dumb and blind elite category of social classes in our area.

What SandBox hears the peeps just sayin, is that the concept is a bit like the current wrestling with his conscience that Glenwood City Councilman Ted Edmonds has going on.

Over whether or not to fall hook, line and sinker for the way the city finance department is trying to sell 'no ability to ever change' the way government money is handled.

The peeps  seem to have this notion that we could make a casino or gaming venue 'look' like anything we want. 

That the citizenry and our elected leaders are in charge of getting as creative as we want to be. 

By gosh, by golly, the thing could end up looking as classy as the Little Nell. 

Maybe it could even be strictly regulated to keep out the 'riff-raff'.

Heck, the peeps are even sayin that they would consider a 'ban on locals' if it meant the same blue-bloods with a lot of dough that frequent Monte Carlo would come and drop some change at the tables.

Anything goes! 

The folks like the idea of increasing Colorado gaming revenues into a very high dollar cash cow that would pay for our kids public education, 'doing something' with I-70 congestion, road and bridge needs, etc. etc. etc. and leaving them with their hard-earned money in their own pockets.

Just say YES!!

To Dinosaur, Colorado becoming a gaming mecca.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "The Aspen lifestyle a perplexing dilemma"

"Dear Editor:

I find it ironic, and disingenuous, to open a local paper..."
(Jim Markalunas, Aspen)


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Lorenzo Semple "Follow the yellow brick road"

"Colorado means colorful, and that it is. The colors are peaking right now, and all this week. They say that the Aspen tree grove is the largest living organism in the world. If you drink a heady brew of quantum bio-physics you could imagine that we are all connected and part of that organism.

This time of year things start to slow. The temperatures drop, and the grasses lay fallow, trees, plants and shrubs start to go dormant. Hanging flower baskets start to look haggard. Flies that were once near impossible to swat are now like sitting ducks. It seems like our bio-rhythms and metabolisms start to slow as well. Your inner caveman calls out to gather supplies for winter — like new skis — and your body tells you to start storing fat.

The shrub oaks and berry bushes here are so vibrant, and such an important part of our local ecosystem. I saw a squirrel with so many acorns in its mouth it looked like the great Dizzy Gillespie. That’s what locals start to do this time of year — stock up for winter, get your squirrel on...."
(Lorenzo Semple)

(Be sure to read all of Semple's terrific column,  Click title)

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "ZG: Aspen on the little screen, surprises on big screen"

That Aspen icon, larger in life than any other Aspen icon, is actually someone/some thing that locals have a difficult time remembering exactly who or what 'ZG' is.

If you talk to 'downvalley' folks, 'ZG' represents just about everything 'Aspen'.

Depending on who you talk to 'upvalley', 'ZG' is everything  the old Aspenites would fight to the death to stand alongside (or) that 'ZG' is the 'best license plate letters' to have on your car because it means you're 'a local'.  Some say 'ZG' is a political statement.

What no one disputes, is that 'ZG' brings up a reminder of Aspen.

SandBox Nanny, upon encountering a pointed and somewhat  mocking comment, allegedly from 'ZG' him/her self when she posted a piece on 'downvalley'  folks' opinion of 'ZG' encountering the joys of jury duty; decided to let the 'downvalley' avatars in commentary 'give 'ol 'ZG' (whatever it means) a little insight into how they really feel about the symbolism of 'ZG'. 

Before getting bumped by hotter topics, that post and commentary was the most popular post on SandBox for a number of months.

How good it was, to see the 'real' 'ZG' come out from his/her secluded hideaway.  Rumored to be a hidden lair, located on the backside of a remote mountain somewhere.  And once again share his/her/it's unique insight into all things that touch Aspen and The Valley.

Today, SandBox Nanny is appreciative of these unique views of, 'ZG':

"..Filmgoers were required to leave their cell phones at check-in and were sworn to secrecy by signing a waiver promising not to reveal what they were about to watch. Aspen’s not a town where secrets are easily kept, and locals’ opinions flow like wine. Not only is the secret out ..."

"Is all this a sign? Or should we keep the faith in Kyle Orton?..."
(Aspen Daily News)

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SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "New Caucus Date Gives Voters Bigger Voice"

"Colorado -- State Republicans want Colorado to have a big say in next year's Presidential race.


The State Party has moved Colorado's Caucus up a month to immediately follow Iowa; the first state set to cast their vote for the GOP nominee..."

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SandBox Comments: KREX News 5 "ICE Makes Major Arrests Across Colorado "

A thank you goes to President Barack Obama, for this major bust of illegal foreign nationals in Colorado. 

"Immigration officials say 102 people have been arrested for deportation in Colorado and Wyoming as part of a nationwide roundup. Agents working for ICE's Denver region arrested 96 people in 25 cities in Colorado as well as six people in Wyoming...."

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Strawberry Days arrestee sentenced on local counts"

It feels very good to see Garfield County Sheriff's Dept. be given a little more of a level field from local reporters.

Maybe our local media would like to start mulling over the next positive to all step forward.

Like..maybe a sincere expression of appreciation for our county and city law enforcement, our ICE, TAG, TRIDENT and local DEA and FBI.   

After all, that is something that the PI has rarely, if ever, done.

"Vallario has defended the operation, saying its mission was to identify known or possible gang members and prosecute them.

He said at the time of the arrests that anyone at the carnival who was wearing gang-related clothing, such as bandanas or certain sports jerseys, was approached and asked to remove them. In Centeno's case, authorities knew him to be a prior deportee with a history of gang involvement, and likely in the country illegally, Vallario said at the time...."
(John Stroud)

SandBox Comments: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Four arrested, 1 wanted in pot robbery near Norwood"

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SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "Aspen Skiing Co. officially scraps system with ski pros"

This news, on a problem that has been festering in the shadows, trying to be heard for aprx. 18 years, is told very well by Scott Condon.

Up on The Aspen Times.

It is highly likely that commentators will weigh in on the subject matter, so SandBox Nanny will leave them to that.

Her comment this morning is aimed at the Times.

We notice.

We notice that this news is reported by the only print news publication the Aspen Skico and Crown Family 'allow' to speak regarding all things Skico.

Welcome back, Aspen Times.

Here's to the little guy.

Let freedom ring.


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times "A sham is a sham"

Here's to the 'other ladies' up in Aspen.

Let freedom ring.

(whisper....whisper....LOL!!....'Eurogate'......whisper...whisper....)


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times/Roger Marolt "How do you spell ‘local'? B-O-O-S-T-E-R"

Oh, the tears that flow into Nanny's morning cuppa.

Every time Roger Marolt hits the air.

Tears of laughter.  Sometimes tears of pain and suffering. 

Some say that's the trademark of a very good opinion columnist.

SandBox Nanny says it's the trademark  of a very bold and brave 'man with a pen'.

"...So, come on: Spend recklessly. Get up to the homecoming games this weekend. Buy a black Aspen hat and a T-shirt. Eat a hot dog. Be on the chain gang. Live like it's 1975..."


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Glenwood sales taxes up 3 percent for August"

You're right, 'anonymous'.

It takes patience beyond measure.

One of SandBox Nanny's fav sayings, given to her long ago by an unlikely sage, is:  "What I hear you saying..."

She thinks that once again, she is being left by John Stroud with no other choice than to leave the PI, The City of Glenwood Springs and our local tourism marketing efforts in the hands of the 'kids'.

What she will do for Mr. Stroud, on this article, is use the tool of an unlikely sage:

"What I hear you saying, is that it is way too difficult to simply grab the statistical data that breaks down both the city sales tax numbers (and) the lodging/accommodations tax numbers; and post them up in the only daily newspaper 81601 has.  Because it is way too difficult to do that, you believe it best to continue to antagonize the folks who want to get down to the facts instead of the 'gild on the lily' as they are so fond of saying."

SandBox Nanny will add that she is very pleased to see the change in reporting that Mr. Stroud has made.  More and more we see just the facts and that is sincerely appreciated.

Congratulations to the City of Glenwood Springs on what looks like on the surface, a cresting over the peak.

'Kids', what can you do to help John Stroud hear you?

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Change in sublease could signal Ghosts are on the move"

"...The Rookie affiliate of the Colorado Rockies is in the process of relocating to Grand Junction for the 2012 season, although city of Grand Junction officials refuse to confirm negotiations are under way...."
( Allen Gemaehlich)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Steamboat Today "Our View: Medical marijuana centers should be banned"

This is the most amazing expose' on medical marijuana centers.


Why hasn't the fact that they are not even legal here in Colorado if you interpret the technical and exact wording of the statute;  been exposed until now?

"Marijuana centers were born out of Amendment 20, the language of which reads: “An Amendment to the Colorado Constitution authorizing the medical use of marijuana for persons suffering from debilitating medical conditions, and, in connection therewith, establishing an affirmative defense to Colorado criminal laws for patients and their primary caregivers relating to the medical use of marijuana.”

The amendment allows registered patients or their designated caregivers to cultivate and possess marijuana in small amounts to meet the patients’ needs. Referendums 1A, 2A, 2C and 2E would not change that — patients who truly need pot still would have access to it. Instead, the referendums would, effective Jan. 1, shut down the five marijuana centers operating in Routt County — three in Steamboat, one in Oak Creek and one in Milner.

Nothing in Amendment 20 provides for medical marijuana centers. Such centers began cropping up along the Front Range in 2008 as some interpreted the caregiver provision of the law to allow commercial operations to grow and sell significant amounts of marijuana on behalf of registered cardholders. In most cases, including in Routt County, the marijuana businesses began operating before municipalities could put rules in place authorizing or regulating them..."
(Steamboat Today Editorial Board)


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "Grand Junction Police Department To Put More Cops On The Street "

This...is fantastic news!

What a boon to the folks down in Grand Junction!

Congratulations to City of Grand Junction Police Chief John Camper and his officers on the reinstatement of their 'Street Crimes Unit'.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: KREX News 5 "One Drug Ring Bust Leads to Another"

New details come out on the recent major meth trafficking bust down in Mesa County.

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SandBox Comments: Washington Post "The genius of Vladi­mir Putin"

Wonderful opinion piece from Ralph Peters.  Off the Washington Post.

Is it the genius of Vladimir Putin?  Or is it simply highly skilled cunning?


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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Summit County Citizens Voice "Skiing: Monarch Mountain’s season pass goes global"

What a fantastic tourism marketing idea!

Avatars in commentary have been asking for years, for a similar concept to be created in our regional tourism marketing.

Imagine the smaller resorts such as Sunlight and Powderhorn joining resources with a combined pass. 

Now imagine the big boys like Vail, Aspen and Telluride throwing in some killer deals for their slower times.

Combined ski passes.

Heckuva idea.  So glad the 'kids' thought of it years ago and have pushed it ever since.  Primarily because it's a great way for families to be able to take mini-vacations in the area.

Good wishes to Monarch Mountain as they take the idea global.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Letter to the Editor "Public art is beautiful and worthwhile"

"Employee in the hospitality industry" Katie Turner of Glenwood Springs  writes in to the PI with her feeling of "how sad" of an individual  Jolene Varley of Carbondale  'is'.

Wouldn't it be nice for our city coffers to have tourism based representation not repeatedly show our community in the same light as those within our tourism industry that are divisive, elitist, intolerant and just plain old 'subtle' and arrogant 'bullies'? 

What we hear Jolene actually saying, that is now taken out of context by Katie Turner and turned into a personal attack on Jolene; is that we cannot afford, at this time, what we are spending on public art and the maintenance of. 

Jolene 'attacks', in her letter to the editor linked above, the elected officials, the known suppliers and vendors that perpetuate what she considers waste spending.  As a taxpayer that has no choice but to assist putting heads in beds for her community to survive, technically somebody like Katie Turner, in the "hospitality" industry...works for Jolene Varley.  

What Jolene is implying is a bit like the 'birthday cake gimmick' and $600 dollars per minute ($300 of that covered by another bailout to tourism marketing by the folks) for the fireworks this year; both of which are just a small portion of the reason we are so buried in the hole with our tourism dollars here in Glenwood Springs.

How 'sad' it is that no matter how much deeper we sink into the quagmire, our hospitality and tourism representation still resorts to attacks on the general population.

Weighing the two letters against each other, Jolene Varley most certainly comes out on top as the class act.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Records: Wiretaps sink meth ring'

(related stories and comments here)

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SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Officers: Cocaine suspect only allowed detective to enter his Main St. home"

"An Eastern European man who is the suspect in a cocaine case gave permission only to an Aspen police detective to enter his Main Street residence, law enforcement officers testified Friday.

But their testimony during an evidence-suppression hearing indicated that at least two federal immigration agents and a police officer besides the detective entered the suspect’s home...."
(Chad Abraham)


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SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Letter to the Editor "Who’s the bully?"

"Editor:

The word “bully,” originally meaning “sweetheart” in the 1500s, evolved by the 1680s to its current meaning, “harasser of the weak.” Mr. Doug Allen, writing in last Friday’s Aspen Daily News, labels Ms. Marilyn Marks as a “bully.” He characterizes her supporters as a “small handful” and ascribes their collective attitude as “turned on by her constant anti-everything antics.” Mr. Allen goes on to insinuate that Ms. Marks is a jerk, disparages her business success as a CEO, defines her stature as a “divisive political figure,” and her influence on the city’s election commission as “improper.” He concludes by summarizing her political views as nothing more than the rants of a “political malcontent” and presumes to speak for us all by stating that “we don’t want you involved in our city government.” 

I would first like to comment on Mr. Allen’s use of the term “bully.” By definition, a bully must occupy a position of power over the bullied. Mr. Allen never states exactly who has been bullied by Ms. Marks. For Mr. Allen to be judged accurate in the use of this term, one would have to conclude that, in the power relationship between Ms. Marks and the unmentioned victims, presumably Aspen’s politicians or administrators, she held the power position and they were the powerless, she the harasser and they the weak. Is this the power dynamic when a lone citizen challenges a government body? At best, ascribing the term “bully” to Ms. Marks is inaccurate.

The accuracy of Mr. Allen’s comment, “small handful of supporters,” cannot easily be verified as he offers no information in support of this description. One could use Ms. Mark’s vote tally when she ran for council. Ms. Marks received 34 percent, or 877 votes compared to 43 percent or 1,090 votes for Mr. Ireland. Ms. Marks’ supporters could accurately be described as a minority of Aspen voters. They might also be described as a significant minority since the next highest vote tally was 17 percent or 421 votes. Ms. Marks’ supporters could reasonably take exception to being classified as a “small handful.” They might also take exception to being characterized as “turned on by her constant anti-everything antics.” I took the liberty of calling a few people who I know support and voted for Ms. Marks. They unanimously denied supporting Ms. Marks for the reason Mr. Allen stated. I could hardly refer to this small sample size as scientific, being that it was such a “small handful.”

The bully analogy continues and morphs into “jerk.” The exact meaning of the word “jerk” is difficult to determine. It is certainly pejorative, a word intended to disparage or belittle, I might suggest, a word intended to bully. Mr. Allen continues to slight Ms. Marks by casually disparaging her business success as a CEO of a large corporation by referring to it as “unclear.” It isn’t enough that a woman rises to the top of a traditionally male business; Mr. Allen finds it necessary to demean that success by suggesting it may have been less than we might imagine. No facts, just a not-so subtle insult.

Mr. Allen goes on to describe Ms. Marks as a “divisive political figure.” I Googled the term “divisive political figure” and found names as diverse as Al Gore, Dick Cheney, Sarah Palin and Nelson Mandella. It seems the term can be used to make any point one wishes. The choice of such a term appears to say more about its user than its target.

Mr. Allen refers to Ms. Marks’ “improper influence over the city’s election commission” as “well documented accusations,” as if the fact that any accusation that is well documented is true. Can any reader of this commentary think of a well-documented accusation that has later proven false?

I suggest, based on Ms. Marks’ behavior as it relates to her political activities, stated positions, court challenges or verbal exchanges, that she is more aptly described as a political activist, a person who is a vigorous advocate for a cause. Most Americans cherish the right of free speech and understand the responsibility that the majority has to protect and defend that right. I suggest that anyone who seeks to diminish that right, to intimidate others into silence or submission, need only look in the mirror to know what a bully looks like..."
(Steve Kaufman, Carbondale)

SandBox Comments: The Right Scoop "Full Speech: Benjamin Netanyahu speech to United Nations "

Netanyahu's speech to United Nations in its entirety.

The BBC cut it off mid-way, but a number of outlets, including The Right Scoop have posted.

A widely praised speech that is notably of a higher caliber than the speech given by President Obama. 

Not just that Netanyahu speaks of specific solutions, the man has an inherent ability to command his audience.  His strength as a leader and the confidence that seems to come from his battlefield experience inspire trust.

Truly a brilliant speech.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Times/Paul Nitze "Deregulation isn't the answer"

It is such a great column this week.  From Paul Nitze.

Up on The Aspen Times.

Nitze often captures the balance in the middle that many conservatives crave from liberal values. 

Too bad Nitze not only didn't use enough care in choosing an on point headline; meandering along the 'Ayn Rand' path with great content, only to end up with this buzz killer statement is disappointing:

"There is no substitute for a coordinated effort, led by the federal government..." (Paul Nitze)

 What's up with that liberal Pavlovian response that it has to be the federal government that runs everything?

Wonder what would happen if someone as capable and astute as Paul Nitze took a walk on the wild side of life with some of those middle of the road conservatives instead of hand-in-hand with Ayn Rand? 

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Pueblo Chieftain "DA wants out of murder case "

"Defense allegations cloud David Carrillo prosecution, Thiebaut says"
(Jeff Tucker)


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SandBox Comments: Craig Daily Press "Dinosaur Town Council, Ute tribe exploring casino project agreement"

Just say, YES!!!

Gaming and lottery proceeds in Colorado fund Parks and Rec.  Except for a small amount of gaming proceeds that fund post secondary education.

Not millions of dollars per year, but billions of dollars per year is the bottom line when our gaming industry stacks into our lottery sales.

Imagine if we followed the example of other states in the nation.

Split the total gains between funding for our public education system, road and bridge, conservation, human services and parks and rec.

Yowza!  A cash cow.

Now, wouldn't that be better than adding more onto the already burdened backs of the folks?

Imagine 'West Glenwood Ghettos' with a small, completely restricted to meet the concerns of all the folks on the potential unsavory aspects of bringing in gaming; casino.  Or maybe Snowmass Village.  Or Edwards.

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SandBox Comments: FOX Business "Vail Resorts CEO on Creating Value for Upper-Income Travelers"

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we had a real regional tourism program in place?

Things like this major live interview on FOX Business with Vail Resorts CEO Rob Katz would be beneficial to all.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News/Doug Allen "Nobody likes a bully"

Bullying?

Self-Defense or defense of a group?

Communication or free speech?

Effective communication on a level another will hear you?

Doug Allen of Aspen gives his definition.  Up on The Aspen Daily News.

(...whisper..whisper...wonder who "we" is....whisper...whisper...wonder who "our" government is...whisper...whisper....)

"...I found a variety of different definitions for “bully” online, and they can all be generally summarized as a person with a desire for conflict who is habitually cruel or overbearing, typically to force a person or persons to do as they want.....

.....Disturbingly, the article also quotes Commissioner Rob Ittner, who voted for Marks, as saying “I just find it incredibly hypocritical to be judging her on her desire to have conflict.” I find it equally incredible that Ittner doesn’t understand a “desire for conflict” is about as welcome and useful on a volunteer advisory board as a clown is at a funeral.

Commissioners Richards, Hatfield and Owsley are to be commended for refusing to give this perennial malcontent yet another platform from which to bully the community. Through the democratic process, the majority of Aspen voters have time and again rejected Marks and Co.’s positions and behaviors, and the commissioners honored their constituents with this decision.

The people of Aspen have done nothing to deserve Marks’ brand of community service. And no, Marilyn, we don’t even want you to volunteer on the Noxious Weed Board, although the childhood rhyme “takes one to know one” does spring to mind. How many times, and in how many ways, must we tell you that we don’t want you involved in our city government?....."
(Doug Allen)

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Snowmass Sun "Barbara Lucks: ‘You're still pertinent. Keep writing'"

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Reapportionment makes slight changes for Garfield County'

SandBox is very glad to see that there were such minor changes to redistricting.

We feel that we can thank our Garfield County Commissioners for that.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."

SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "No subsidized vacation for Mick"

Very enlightening Letter to the Editor from Elizabeth Milias on Mayor Mick Ireland's recent European Great Adventure.

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"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."