It is human nature to focus more on the present than the past.
Unfortunately, when a community such as Aspen has such a strong history of repetitious behavior patterns, old 'projects' are usually not forgotten.
Terrific story from Chad Abraham today up on the Aspen Daily as the "Pirate of Prague’ reflects on Aspen, bribery allegations".
Chad Abraham:
"The U.S. government is offering $22 million in proceeds from its sale of the Peak House in Aspen — which it seized in 2001 from a man accused of stealing more than $1 billion from investors — to Czech Republic shareholders as restitution, media in Prague reported Tuesday.
On March 28, an appeals court in Britain affirmed the extradition decision by a Bahamas court regarding the home’s former owner, Viktor Kozeny. The lower court refused the U.S. government’s request that Kozeny be extradited to face charges of money laundering, lying to the FBI and violating federal foreign corruption laws.
The so-called “Pirate of Prague” has lived in the Caribbean since 1999, when authorities say he fled the United States with $182 million swindled from investors from Aspen and elsewhere, and $1.1 billion more that was allegedly embezzled from mutual funds in the Czech Republic.
Kozeny, 48, bought the nearly 22,000-square-foot home, the highest residence on Red Mountain, in 1997 for $19.7 million, which was then a record for a real estate sale in the state.
Authorities believe Kozeny used the residence to woo investors for his $450 million plan to control the oil industry of Azerbaijan. The home was eventually seized and sold under a court order to Priceline founder Richard S. Braddock in 2001, who continues to own it......
(lol...local contractors who remember the major gut and remodel Kozeny did after buying it and how hard the peon labor was whipped to perform for this infamous party....will love Kozeny's comment on Aspen's drug culture. (whisper...whisper...gosh...Viktor's personal beliefs re: drugs in Aspen must have been the reason we were all red-tagged for digging out the secret wine cave "party" room that lies under Peak House now....whisper...whisper....)):
(Abraham).....Among the tactics to lure investors, who included former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell: a lavish Christmas party in 1997 at the Peak House at which Natalie Cole sang and at which the Azerbaijan scheme was allegedly hatched.
Investors were apparently told that their money would be going to Kozeny’s Oily Rock and Minaret companies, which were to buy energy vouchers for the state oil company as Azerbaijan, a former Soviet republic, looked to privatized industries in the late 1990s.
Instead, federal prosecutors contend Kozeny used his jets to fly in suitcases filled with millions of dollars to bribe Azerbaijan officials. The nation’s oil industry was never privatized.
Kozeny said he doubts the plan was discussed at the Christmas party.
“As to business we all know that’s never discussed at parties in Aspen as everyone is wasted and half of [the] town [is] on cocaine, which is one of the reasons why I prefer Europe where the drug problem is not so severe,” he wrote....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
May 16, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "The history of LTEs"
Andrew Kole:
"Letters to the editor (LTEs) have been an important feature of American newspapers since the beginning of their publication.
A great deal of the news reports and commentaries published by early-American newspapers were delivered in the form of letters.
By the mid-18th century, LTEs were a dominant carrier of political and social discourse. Many influential essays about the role of government in matters such as personal freedoms and economic development took the form of letters, and so by the turn of the 20th century LTEs had become permanent fixtures of the opinion pages.....
.......The latter is a fairly recent development in LTE management. Prior to the Cold War, anonymous LTEs were common; the right to write anonymously was central to the free-press/free-speech movement.
By the 1970s, editors had developed strong negative attitudes toward anonymous letters, and by the end of the 20th century, about 94 percent of newspapers automatically rejected anonymous LTEs.
Some newspapers in the 1980s and ’90s created special anonymous opinion forums that allowed people to either record short verbal opinions via telephone (which were then transcribed and published) or send letters that were either unsigned or when the author used a pseudonym.
Aspen’s very own Roger Marolt used a form of pseudonym in the greatest LTE hoax Aspen has ever seen, resulting in the well received excerpt of the Aspen Times’ book “Letter’s To The Editor.”.....
......Defenders argued that anonymous forums upheld the free-press tradition of vigorous, uninhibited debate similar to that found in earlier newspapers. But again, those defenders are often a bit obscure in respect to putting even their names to this defensive position......
....Last year the Aspen Times finally stopped publishing their online hate mail forum by anonymous persons when pressure from the public hit a new high, along with the vicious content of the comments......
......As a relatively consistent writer of LTEs for the last 13 years, I say congratulations LTE writers, and to our local papers who publish them.
Write on......." (Read more? Read without breaks? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Letters to the editor (LTEs) have been an important feature of American newspapers since the beginning of their publication.
A great deal of the news reports and commentaries published by early-American newspapers were delivered in the form of letters.
By the mid-18th century, LTEs were a dominant carrier of political and social discourse. Many influential essays about the role of government in matters such as personal freedoms and economic development took the form of letters, and so by the turn of the 20th century LTEs had become permanent fixtures of the opinion pages.....
.......The latter is a fairly recent development in LTE management. Prior to the Cold War, anonymous LTEs were common; the right to write anonymously was central to the free-press/free-speech movement.
By the 1970s, editors had developed strong negative attitudes toward anonymous letters, and by the end of the 20th century, about 94 percent of newspapers automatically rejected anonymous LTEs.
Some newspapers in the 1980s and ’90s created special anonymous opinion forums that allowed people to either record short verbal opinions via telephone (which were then transcribed and published) or send letters that were either unsigned or when the author used a pseudonym.
Aspen’s very own Roger Marolt used a form of pseudonym in the greatest LTE hoax Aspen has ever seen, resulting in the well received excerpt of the Aspen Times’ book “Letter’s To The Editor.”.....
......Defenders argued that anonymous forums upheld the free-press tradition of vigorous, uninhibited debate similar to that found in earlier newspapers. But again, those defenders are often a bit obscure in respect to putting even their names to this defensive position......
....Last year the Aspen Times finally stopped publishing their online hate mail forum by anonymous persons when pressure from the public hit a new high, along with the vicious content of the comments......
......As a relatively consistent writer of LTEs for the last 13 years, I say congratulations LTE writers, and to our local papers who publish them.
Write on......." (Read more? Read without breaks? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Garfield sheriff: Hikers shouldn’t be deterred by exposure cases"
(See related SandBox post here)
It's with both dismay and a troubled awareness, that no matter how far over the line the same individuals go when commenting online and/or in their Letters to the Editor, authorities do absolutely nothing about the Anita Sherman's (see her comments today on Sheriff Vallrio's meeting here) aka 'JustAnita' aka 'MomMakingChange' who appear to be willfully hurting others to the point where there really is intimidation out here that prevents people from coming to public meetings and expressing themselves openly.
There are only about a dozen or so of those types of bullies in our area communities, yet from the serious protection authorities and news media give them, one would think they were a majority.
As always, Sheriff Vallario's reaching out to the public over any issue is appreciated.
With that said, sooner or later regional law enforcement is going to have to address the problem that they just simply do not seem to want to admit to.
In Garfield, Pitkin and this side of Eagle county they really do have a widespread problem of anonymous voices that look to themselves for protective needs and who will not risk their way of life falling into the hands of the mentality of gang bullies by showing themselves publicly except in ways that don't tie them to their avatars and LTE's.
Until that problem is addressed with more presence and more action, terrific meetings like this one will go largely unattended. In very much the same as what took place publicly over the Strawberry Days 2011 bust and the free reign of a "40 year old" drug culture in Aspen.
With the above said a shout out of thanks to GarCo Sheriff for the meeting and the cameras.
We'll once again thank the few law enforcement we have in the Valley that don't put up with the extremes some go to and also rely on the trusted and respected pen of investigative journalist Dennis Webb for this story.
Over on the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.
Dennis Webb:
"CARBONDALE—Recreationists shouldn’t let reports of naked men and indecent exposures stop them from enjoying local trails, Garfield County Lou Vallario assured some Carbondale-area residents Tuesday night.
“Be a little more prepared, be a little more aware, take some precautions, but you need to do what you enjoy in life,” Vallario said at a meeting designed to update people on the incidents and cover means of self-protection.
.....Vallario told those at the meeting, “You shouldn’t be afraid to do things in your life. You shouldn’t be afraid to do things in Garfield County.”.....
.....Sheriff officials say a spate of cases of indecent exposure on trails around Carbondale and in Glenwood Canyon began back in 2008. Several have been reported this spring on three Carbondale-area trails.
Authorities believe several men are involved, and are trying to determine if any of them are involved in multiple cases.....
....Vallario noted that none to date have involved crimes any worse than public indecency or indecent exposure.
“Right now we have no other reason to feel that we have anything more aggressive,” he said.
The sheriff’s office has been sending plain-clothed deputies on trails and using remote cameras as part of their investigation.....
....One camera produced a photo of an unclothed man and investigators released to the public an edited version showing him from the shoulders up. They since have identified him and have arranged to interview him.
The man, who also was seen walking, clothed, around Carbondale Tuesday, is only a suspect at this point and his name hasn’t been released.
.....Vallario said authorities aren’t ruling out the possibility that some of the incidents might involve some sort of ritualistic activity involving nakedness that hikers stumbled upon, but an indecency charge still would apply.... (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
It's with both dismay and a troubled awareness, that no matter how far over the line the same individuals go when commenting online and/or in their Letters to the Editor, authorities do absolutely nothing about the Anita Sherman's (see her comments today on Sheriff Vallrio's meeting here) aka 'JustAnita' aka 'MomMakingChange' who appear to be willfully hurting others to the point where there really is intimidation out here that prevents people from coming to public meetings and expressing themselves openly.
There are only about a dozen or so of those types of bullies in our area communities, yet from the serious protection authorities and news media give them, one would think they were a majority.
As always, Sheriff Vallario's reaching out to the public over any issue is appreciated.
With that said, sooner or later regional law enforcement is going to have to address the problem that they just simply do not seem to want to admit to.
In Garfield, Pitkin and this side of Eagle county they really do have a widespread problem of anonymous voices that look to themselves for protective needs and who will not risk their way of life falling into the hands of the mentality of gang bullies by showing themselves publicly except in ways that don't tie them to their avatars and LTE's.
Until that problem is addressed with more presence and more action, terrific meetings like this one will go largely unattended. In very much the same as what took place publicly over the Strawberry Days 2011 bust and the free reign of a "40 year old" drug culture in Aspen.
With the above said a shout out of thanks to GarCo Sheriff for the meeting and the cameras.
We'll once again thank the few law enforcement we have in the Valley that don't put up with the extremes some go to and also rely on the trusted and respected pen of investigative journalist Dennis Webb for this story.
Over on the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.
Dennis Webb:
"CARBONDALE—Recreationists shouldn’t let reports of naked men and indecent exposures stop them from enjoying local trails, Garfield County Lou Vallario assured some Carbondale-area residents Tuesday night.
“Be a little more prepared, be a little more aware, take some precautions, but you need to do what you enjoy in life,” Vallario said at a meeting designed to update people on the incidents and cover means of self-protection.
.....Vallario told those at the meeting, “You shouldn’t be afraid to do things in your life. You shouldn’t be afraid to do things in Garfield County.”.....
.....Sheriff officials say a spate of cases of indecent exposure on trails around Carbondale and in Glenwood Canyon began back in 2008. Several have been reported this spring on three Carbondale-area trails.
Authorities believe several men are involved, and are trying to determine if any of them are involved in multiple cases.....
....Vallario noted that none to date have involved crimes any worse than public indecency or indecent exposure.
“Right now we have no other reason to feel that we have anything more aggressive,” he said.
The sheriff’s office has been sending plain-clothed deputies on trails and using remote cameras as part of their investigation.....
....One camera produced a photo of an unclothed man and investigators released to the public an edited version showing him from the shoulders up. They since have identified him and have arranged to interview him.
The man, who also was seen walking, clothed, around Carbondale Tuesday, is only a suspect at this point and his name hasn’t been released.
.....Vallario said authorities aren’t ruling out the possibility that some of the incidents might involve some sort of ritualistic activity involving nakedness that hikers stumbled upon, but an indecency charge still would apply.... (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Officers Seize $1.2 Million in Cocaine, Meth at Brownsville Port of Entry"
"Brownsville, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville Port of Entry on Thursday discovered cocaine and methamphetamine valued at more than $1.2 million in two seizures at two different international bridges in separate, unrelated enforcement actions.
CBP officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge encountered a 2005 Chevrolet Equinox being driven by a 24-year-old male Mexico citizen and resident of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. CBP officers discovered 14 packages hidden within the Chevrolet. CBP officers removed the packages containing approximately 31.6 pounds of cocaine.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
CBP officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge encountered a 2005 Chevrolet Equinox being driven by a 24-year-old male Mexico citizen and resident of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. CBP officers discovered 14 packages hidden within the Chevrolet. CBP officers removed the packages containing approximately 31.6 pounds of cocaine.
The second case occurred at Gateway International Bridge when CBP officers came in contact with a male United States citizen as he arrived at the port of entry as the driver of a black 2003 Volkswagen Jetta. The man, identified as a 47-year-old resident of Austin, Texas, was selected and referred for inspection. CBP officers discovered 48 packages hidden within the Jetta. CBP officers removed the packages which held a combined total weight of 14.10 pounds of methamphetamine.
The cocaine from the first seizure has an estimated street value of approximately $1,011,200 and the methamphetamine seizure has an estimated street value of approximately $211,500. CBP officers turned the drivers over to U.S. immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations special agents for further investigation. CBP officers seized the narcotics and the vehicles.
“Brownsville CBP officers have prevented two dangerous narcotic loads from being introduced into the country. Our CBP officers have intercepted these drugs just 12 hours apart at two of Brownsville’s border crossings. This is outstanding work on the frontline by CBP officers. I congratulate our officers for these seizures and the arrest of the drivers,” said Michael Freeman, CBP Port Director, Brownsville Port of Entry.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws."
SandBoxBlogs: Daily Caller "Obama administration shrugs off contempt threat against Holder"
Matthew Boyle:
"The U.S. Department of Justice struck back on Tuesday against House oversight committee chairman Rep. Darrell Issa’s push to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress for his failure to comply with a congressional subpoena related to Operation Fast and Furious.
“We believe that a contempt proceeding would be unwarranted given the information the Department has disclosed to the Committee to date; unprecedented given the law enforcement sensitivities at issue; and ill-advised given the damage it would cause to relations between the Executive and Legislative Branches,” Deputy Attorney General James Cole wrote to Issa on behalf of the DOJ.
“The Committee’s concerns about the Department’s response to the October 11 subpoena appear predicated on a misunderstanding both of the extraordinary lengths the Department has gone to respond to the Committee’s requests, of of the threat that disclosures of sensitive law enforcement information would pose to open criminal investigations and prosecutions,” Cole continued. “Furthermore, we believe that the core questions posed by the Committee about Operation Fast and Furious have been answered.”
Cole suggested that documents proving high-level Department of Justice officials had knowledge of Fast and Furious “do not exist.”
“[T]he lack of documents makes clear,” Cole wrote, “that these tactics had their origin in the field in Arizona and not among Department leaders in Washington.”
Holder has failed to comply with Issa’s Oct. 12, 2011, subpoena. With respect to 13 of the subpoena’s 22 categories, Holder has provided no documents. He is far from compliant with the subpoena’s other sections as well....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The U.S. Department of Justice struck back on Tuesday against House oversight committee chairman Rep. Darrell Issa’s push to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress for his failure to comply with a congressional subpoena related to Operation Fast and Furious.
“We believe that a contempt proceeding would be unwarranted given the information the Department has disclosed to the Committee to date; unprecedented given the law enforcement sensitivities at issue; and ill-advised given the damage it would cause to relations between the Executive and Legislative Branches,” Deputy Attorney General James Cole wrote to Issa on behalf of the DOJ.
“The Committee’s concerns about the Department’s response to the October 11 subpoena appear predicated on a misunderstanding both of the extraordinary lengths the Department has gone to respond to the Committee’s requests, of of the threat that disclosures of sensitive law enforcement information would pose to open criminal investigations and prosecutions,” Cole continued. “Furthermore, we believe that the core questions posed by the Committee about Operation Fast and Furious have been answered.”
Cole suggested that documents proving high-level Department of Justice officials had knowledge of Fast and Furious “do not exist.”
“[T]he lack of documents makes clear,” Cole wrote, “that these tactics had their origin in the field in Arizona and not among Department leaders in Washington.”
Holder has failed to comply with Issa’s Oct. 12, 2011, subpoena. With respect to 13 of the subpoena’s 22 categories, Holder has provided no documents. He is far from compliant with the subpoena’s other sections as well....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Vail Daily News "Gallegos Corporation creates Colorado Mountain College scholarship"
What a wonderful tribute to Gerald Gallegos. This one is a very special honor for CMC. Kudos on this to both the college and Gallegos Corp.
Press Release via Vail Daily:
"EAGLE COUNTY, Colorado — Gerald Gallegos was committed to local philanthropic needs, especially those supporting youth and education. To honor this tradition, The Gallegos Corporation has partnered with the Colorado Mountain College Foundation to create The Gerald G. Gallegos Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship will benefit Eagle County students pursuing an Associates degree or a four-year bachelor's degree at the CMC Edwards campus.
As part of the agreement, CMC named Classroom VE 258 the Gerald G. Gallegos room. In addition to being a classroom with “SmartBoard” technology, the room can be used by corporations or by any group in the region. The Gallegos Corporation recently held a strategic planning retreat in the room.
The scholarship is a natural progression honoring Gallegos' heritage since education was a passion of his. Gallegos was one of the original founders of The Youth Foundation and was an integral part of local education programs for youth from pre-school through higher education. The Gallegos Corporation wanted to continue this legacy with a long -term commitment to students and their education....."
Press Release via Vail Daily:
"EAGLE COUNTY, Colorado — Gerald Gallegos was committed to local philanthropic needs, especially those supporting youth and education. To honor this tradition, The Gallegos Corporation has partnered with the Colorado Mountain College Foundation to create The Gerald G. Gallegos Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship will benefit Eagle County students pursuing an Associates degree or a four-year bachelor's degree at the CMC Edwards campus.
As part of the agreement, CMC named Classroom VE 258 the Gerald G. Gallegos room. In addition to being a classroom with “SmartBoard” technology, the room can be used by corporations or by any group in the region. The Gallegos Corporation recently held a strategic planning retreat in the room.
The scholarship is a natural progression honoring Gallegos' heritage since education was a passion of his. Gallegos was one of the original founders of The Youth Foundation and was an integral part of local education programs for youth from pre-school through higher education. The Gallegos Corporation wanted to continue this legacy with a long -term commitment to students and their education....."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: NPR "'Close Encounters' With Gas Well Pollution"
(See related post's links and public comments by clicking here and on links within)
Here is still yet another google alert that is obviously touting up former Garfield County Commissioner Tresi Houpt. There have been, over the past few days, dozens of selectively keyworded links pumped out onto the web on this story.
Houpt was soundly voted out of office in 2010 to the tune of a number of reasons why discussed around the county. The strongest point, which also seems to be the problem facing Republican incumbent John Martin in his race to re-up as a GarCo commissioner this fall, is that the folks just are not impressed at all with the way Houpt made the issues more about her ideology instead of a well-rounded leadership of the folks needs.
This article off NPR is a great example of what simply will never fly in the Red State that Colorado is. Extreme liberal agendas that do not balance out all needs and use power held as a literal weapon will never garner the voters respect. The same way that a conservative who has grown to care more for capital cronyism in the good 'ol boys and girls club will likely be voted down the road this fall in favor of a trusted and balanced democrat.
You lost the election Tresi and your continued pushing of articles and interviews like this are hurting your cause rather than helping. More important, you're hurting the balanced needs of the folks throughout Garfield County. It's about compromise and facts, not hype and blame with the agenda to abolish.
"Even conservatives love her. Vote Sonja Linman (D-Garfield County)".
Example of one of the dozens of "Tresi Alerts" over the past few days out on the web. Credit goes to Google:
Here is still yet another google alert that is obviously touting up former Garfield County Commissioner Tresi Houpt. There have been, over the past few days, dozens of selectively keyworded links pumped out onto the web on this story.
Houpt was soundly voted out of office in 2010 to the tune of a number of reasons why discussed around the county. The strongest point, which also seems to be the problem facing Republican incumbent John Martin in his race to re-up as a GarCo commissioner this fall, is that the folks just are not impressed at all with the way Houpt made the issues more about her ideology instead of a well-rounded leadership of the folks needs.
This article off NPR is a great example of what simply will never fly in the Red State that Colorado is. Extreme liberal agendas that do not balance out all needs and use power held as a literal weapon will never garner the voters respect. The same way that a conservative who has grown to care more for capital cronyism in the good 'ol boys and girls club will likely be voted down the road this fall in favor of a trusted and balanced democrat.
You lost the election Tresi and your continued pushing of articles and interviews like this are hurting your cause rather than helping. More important, you're hurting the balanced needs of the folks throughout Garfield County. It's about compromise and facts, not hype and blame with the agenda to abolish.
"Even conservatives love her. Vote Sonja Linman (D-Garfield County)".
Example of one of the dozens of "Tresi Alerts" over the past few days out on the web. Credit goes to Google:
| "Garfield County in Colorado Has Encountered Shale Gas Health ... By Duane Nichols As she started to campaign to be a Garfield County commissioner, she came down from her home on a ski mountain to meet people in ranches, rural neighborhoods with the big blue skies and clear starry nights. She couldn't believe what she ... Frack Check WV" Elizabeth Shogren: "Living in the middle of a natural gas boom can be pretty unsettling. The area around the town of Silt, Colo., used to be the kind of sleepy rural place where the tweet of birds was the most you would hear. Now it's hard to make out the birds because of the rumbling of natural gas drilling rigs. The land here is steep cliffs and valleys. But bare splotches of earth called well pads are all over the place...... ........Nearly a decade ago, Garfield County in Colorado started trying to tackle that question, and was chugging ahead of the whole country in pursuit of scientific truth. Local politician Tresi Houpt was the engine pushing that effort. It pains her that people are still asking the questions that revved her up when she first learned about her county's gas boom while campaigning to be county commissioner. "There's a great frustration," she says. "I'm hearing the same stories that I heard nine years ago." Houpt is a Sally Field type, with bangs and all. She speaks softly and deliberately, and wears pressed Carhartt work pants and cowboy boots. As she started to campaign to be a Garfield County commissioner, she came down from her home on a ski mountain to meet people in ranches, rural neighborhoods with the big blue skies and clear starry nights. She couldn't believe what she saw: drill rigs right outside homes, armadas of diesel-spewing trucks, fumes wafting from equipment called compressors and condensate tanks..... .......In May of last year, the commissioners gathered for a meeting and voted to end a contract with the Colorado School of Public Health. Tresi Houpt, who had lost her re-election and wasn't part of the vote, saw her years of work unraveling......" (Read the article in it's entirety? Click title) "Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010." |
SandBoxBlogs: Colordoan "Oil debate also about who represents us"
(See related story and public comments here)
"Save a gas rig. Opt for fair representation. Vote Sonja Linman (D-Garfield County)
Pedro Ramirez:
""I am extremely conservative. But this, I don't believe, is a conservative or liberal issue. What this is about is where we live. We all breathe. We all drink the water." Dale Bisceglia said this in the Coloradoan’s May 6th story on oil development in Windsor. I agree with Bisceglia that it is “about where we live.”
It is also about who we elect to represent us in government. Many conservative politicians want to dismantle all regulations and give industry free rein to do as they please without any or little regard to impacts on workers, families, our children, and our environment.
After World War II, the greatest generation helped build our nation into a great place to live and prosper. They fought for worker protection, equality, and justice. They enacted environmental protections and ended legally sanctioned discrimination. They gave us great public schools and universities that opened the doors of opportunity for many of us without saddling us with a huge debt at the onset of our careers.
Fast forward to the present. Conservative politicians demonstrate more allegiance to Grover Norquist and billionaires than they do the good of our country. They promote discriminatory immigration policies, propose eviscerating environmental protection laws, propose selling our public lands to the highest bidders, eliminate worker’s collective bargaining rights, and demonize our teachers. All this in a concerted effort to privatize just about everything.
It is all about where we live and the political fallout is now in your backyard....."
(Read the original letter? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Save a gas rig. Opt for fair representation. Vote Sonja Linman (D-Garfield County)
Pedro Ramirez:
""I am extremely conservative. But this, I don't believe, is a conservative or liberal issue. What this is about is where we live. We all breathe. We all drink the water." Dale Bisceglia said this in the Coloradoan’s May 6th story on oil development in Windsor. I agree with Bisceglia that it is “about where we live.”
It is also about who we elect to represent us in government. Many conservative politicians want to dismantle all regulations and give industry free rein to do as they please without any or little regard to impacts on workers, families, our children, and our environment.
After World War II, the greatest generation helped build our nation into a great place to live and prosper. They fought for worker protection, equality, and justice. They enacted environmental protections and ended legally sanctioned discrimination. They gave us great public schools and universities that opened the doors of opportunity for many of us without saddling us with a huge debt at the onset of our careers.
Fast forward to the present. Conservative politicians demonstrate more allegiance to Grover Norquist and billionaires than they do the good of our country. They promote discriminatory immigration policies, propose eviscerating environmental protection laws, propose selling our public lands to the highest bidders, eliminate worker’s collective bargaining rights, and demonize our teachers. All this in a concerted effort to privatize just about everything.
It is all about where we live and the political fallout is now in your backyard....."
(Read the original letter? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Open space group is trying to get county sales tax on fall ballot"
With no ability amongst the folks to fully trust the accuracy of a PI report, it is hoped that the Aspen Daily continues to cover the movements of the Garfield Legacy Project. Doing so will give Mary Noone's project a fighting chance to at least have the GarCo folks pay attention.
A caution to avatars in commentary as you respond to what sounds like some progress for GarCo along with two steps back for GarCo if Noone does not change her group approach before putting this on the ballot.
SandBox's prediction?
The other groups that the Garfield Legacy Project sounds like they have associated themselves with early on, appear to be entrenched and lashed to Mary's kite tail.
If that is the case, then this proposed tax hike and the attempt to create an open space program off the role models of those groups, Pitkin county and Aspen will be not only voted down by Garco folks but likely voted down in flames.
See related story and public comments here.
John Stroud:
"GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colorado — When a group of open space program managers and supporters from around the state gathered in Glenwood Springs last fall for the yearly Colorado Open Space Alliance conference, there was a bit of irony involved.
Neither Garfield County nor the city of Glenwood Springs have formal open lands programs, although past attempts have been made to convince voters to enact tax measures to support such an effort.
But a new group of Garfield County residents is now working to add the county to the list of 20 other Colorado counties that have open space programs.
The Garfield Legacy Project organized in 2009 as a coalition of citizens and partner organizations, such as the Aspen Valley Land Trust (AVLT), to begin exploring ways to preserve open lands in Garfield County.
Last fall, the group conducted surveys and hosted public meetings, from which it developed a “Greenprint for Conservation and Economic Opportunity.” That effort was funded primarily by a $75,000 Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) grant.
Now, the Garfield Legacy Project is busy putting together a program proposal and sales tax question to present to voters in the November election.
A one-quarter-cent (0.25 percent) countywide sales tax is estimated to generate $2.5 million annually that would fund the program, according to Mary Noone of Glenwood Springs, one of the founding board members for the Legacy Project....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
A caution to avatars in commentary as you respond to what sounds like some progress for GarCo along with two steps back for GarCo if Noone does not change her group approach before putting this on the ballot.
SandBox's prediction?
The other groups that the Garfield Legacy Project sounds like they have associated themselves with early on, appear to be entrenched and lashed to Mary's kite tail.
If that is the case, then this proposed tax hike and the attempt to create an open space program off the role models of those groups, Pitkin county and Aspen will be not only voted down by Garco folks but likely voted down in flames.
See related story and public comments here.
John Stroud:
"GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colorado — When a group of open space program managers and supporters from around the state gathered in Glenwood Springs last fall for the yearly Colorado Open Space Alliance conference, there was a bit of irony involved.
Neither Garfield County nor the city of Glenwood Springs have formal open lands programs, although past attempts have been made to convince voters to enact tax measures to support such an effort.
But a new group of Garfield County residents is now working to add the county to the list of 20 other Colorado counties that have open space programs.
The Garfield Legacy Project organized in 2009 as a coalition of citizens and partner organizations, such as the Aspen Valley Land Trust (AVLT), to begin exploring ways to preserve open lands in Garfield County.
Last fall, the group conducted surveys and hosted public meetings, from which it developed a “Greenprint for Conservation and Economic Opportunity.” That effort was funded primarily by a $75,000 Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) grant.
Now, the Garfield Legacy Project is busy putting together a program proposal and sales tax question to present to voters in the November election.
A one-quarter-cent (0.25 percent) countywide sales tax is estimated to generate $2.5 million annually that would fund the program, according to Mary Noone of Glenwood Springs, one of the founding board members for the Legacy Project....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Colorado: Summit, Grand counties sign deal with Denver Water"
I am so glad to see this. What began well over a year or so ago with negotiations is now signed. Congratulations on a cooperative job well done to all entities involved.
As always, one of the most respected and trusted environment journalists, Bob Berwyn brings the best coverage of this historic news. Up, over and down on the Summit County Citizens Voice.
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — A major water agreement aimed at ending decades of feuding and litigation between the Front Range and the West Slope moved one step closer to completion this week, as Denver Water, Summit County and Grand County representatives inked the deal at a ceremony in Hot Sulphur Springs.
Along with being hailed as a model of collaboration by Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, the deal also gives all the parties some certainties as to the future management and disposition of the state’s most precious resource.
Against a backdrop of an intensifying mountain drought, Hickenlooper said this year’s dry conditions magnify the need for cooperative solutions and highlight the fragility of the state’s rivers in the face of possible climate change impacts and increasing demand from a growing population.
“Some of our watersheds are reporting the driest conditions in our recorded history … this puts Colorado on a better footing, with more secure water sources both for headwaters counties and Denver,” Hickenlooper said.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
As always, one of the most respected and trusted environment journalists, Bob Berwyn brings the best coverage of this historic news. Up, over and down on the Summit County Citizens Voice.
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — A major water agreement aimed at ending decades of feuding and litigation between the Front Range and the West Slope moved one step closer to completion this week, as Denver Water, Summit County and Grand County representatives inked the deal at a ceremony in Hot Sulphur Springs.
Along with being hailed as a model of collaboration by Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, the deal also gives all the parties some certainties as to the future management and disposition of the state’s most precious resource.
Against a backdrop of an intensifying mountain drought, Hickenlooper said this year’s dry conditions magnify the need for cooperative solutions and highlight the fragility of the state’s rivers in the face of possible climate change impacts and increasing demand from a growing population.
“Some of our watersheds are reporting the driest conditions in our recorded history … this puts Colorado on a better footing, with more secure water sources both for headwaters counties and Denver,” Hickenlooper said.
Most importantly for Denver Water, Summit and Grand counties agree not to oppose a plan to expand diversions from the West Slope through the Moffat Tunnel Collection System, a project that, in its present form, is still bitterly opposed by conservation and river advocacy groups....."
(Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: North Fork Merchant Herald "BLM Seeks Comments on Coal Exploration License for Oak Mesa Mine"
Merchant Herald:
"On Monday, May 14, the Bureau of Land Management released for public comment a preliminary Environmental Assessment and unsigned Finding of No Significant Impact regarding Oxbow Mining, LLC’s Federal Coal Exploration License. The proposed Oak Mesa Project extends from the edge of the Bowie Mine holdings westward across the mesa to the Leroux Creek area, encompassing about 13,873 acres, north of Hotchkiss.
“The Oak Mesa Project is adjacent to existing coal leases in an area of known coal reserves,” said Barb Sharrow, BLM Uncompahgre Field Office Manager. “Coal exploration drilling is needed to determine seam reserve availability for possible development of a new underground coal mine in Delta County.”
Oxbow’s application proposes to drill 43 exploration drill holes on private and federal lands into federal subsurface holdings....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"On Monday, May 14, the Bureau of Land Management released for public comment a preliminary Environmental Assessment and unsigned Finding of No Significant Impact regarding Oxbow Mining, LLC’s Federal Coal Exploration License. The proposed Oak Mesa Project extends from the edge of the Bowie Mine holdings westward across the mesa to the Leroux Creek area, encompassing about 13,873 acres, north of Hotchkiss.
“The Oak Mesa Project is adjacent to existing coal leases in an area of known coal reserves,” said Barb Sharrow, BLM Uncompahgre Field Office Manager. “Coal exploration drilling is needed to determine seam reserve availability for possible development of a new underground coal mine in Delta County.”
Oxbow’s application proposes to drill 43 exploration drill holes on private and federal lands into federal subsurface holdings....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KKCO 11 News "BLM lease nets nearly one million"
Pity poor Bill Koch.
For sure, now that this news of another million bucks flowing into the coffers that fuel our public education, our roads, bridges and general overall living needs; he's going to get attacked again by activists who are against mining and fossil energy sources and who will be parked on your doorstep with another "begging for the children" campaign the next time education cuts flare up into the public need.
Read the article? Do so and then hug a coal miner. Click title.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
For sure, now that this news of another million bucks flowing into the coffers that fuel our public education, our roads, bridges and general overall living needs; he's going to get attacked again by activists who are against mining and fossil energy sources and who will be parked on your doorstep with another "begging for the children" campaign the next time education cuts flare up into the public need.
Read the article? Do so and then hug a coal miner. Click title.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "Crystal one of 'most endangered' rivers"
Scott Condon:
"REDSTONE — A national environmental organization named the Crystal River one of 2012's most endangered rivers in America on Tuesday because of the threat of dams and diversions.
American Rivers ranked the Crystal as the eighth most endangered river in the country for 2012. Its status as one of the last and largest free-flowing rivers in Colorado is in peril, according to Matt Rice, Colorado conservation director for American Rivers.
The Colorado River District and West Divide Conservancy District hold conditional water rights that could be used to build the 4,000-acre-foot Placita Reservoir; a similar-size reservoir on Yank Creek, a tributary of the Crystal River; and a water diversion on Avalanche Creek, the largest tributary of the river. The Placita Reservoir would be about four miles upstream from Redstone....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"REDSTONE — A national environmental organization named the Crystal River one of 2012's most endangered rivers in America on Tuesday because of the threat of dams and diversions.
American Rivers ranked the Crystal as the eighth most endangered river in the country for 2012. Its status as one of the last and largest free-flowing rivers in Colorado is in peril, according to Matt Rice, Colorado conservation director for American Rivers.
The Colorado River District and West Divide Conservancy District hold conditional water rights that could be used to build the 4,000-acre-foot Placita Reservoir; a similar-size reservoir on Yank Creek, a tributary of the Crystal River; and a water diversion on Avalanche Creek, the largest tributary of the river. The Placita Reservoir would be about four miles upstream from Redstone....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: SkyHi Daily "Enduro tourism comes to Beaver Creek"
(See related posts here and here)
Let's remind ourselves of the history behind this growing in popularity event:
Tough Mudder:
"Tough Mudder was founded by Englishmen Will Dean and Guy Livingstone. Dean came up with the idea while at Harvard Business School, and it was a finalist in the Harvard Business School’s annual Business Plan Contest. He brought on Guy Livingstone to act as Chief Operating Officer. On an $8,000 marketing budget, they used facebook to launch the first Tough Mudder event on May 2, 2010 at Bear Creek Resort in Allentown, PA. Since then, the number of Tough Mudder events has increased exponentially with 14 events in 2011, and 28 scheduled in 2012.
The Tough Mudder series was created to test toughness, fitness, strength, stamina and mental grit all in one place and all in one day. Sure, there are a few that will test these things – for thousands of dollars and a week of your life. But in one day in one location? We don’t think so. Other mud runs like the Muddy Buddy series? Forget it – unless you want to run alongside your 60-year-old grandmother. Tough Mudder is a truly exceptional event for truly exceptional people. Fair weather runners should stay at home.
FACT – Marathon running is simply boring. And the only thing more boring than doing a marathon is watching a marathon. Road-running may give you a healthy set of lungs, but will leave you with as much upper body strength as Keira Knightley. At Tough Mudder, we want to test your all-around mettle, not just your ability to run in a straight line, on your own, for hours on end, getting bored out of your mind.
Tough Mudder is also about experiencing a true sense of camaraderie that, sadly, is rarely seen outside of the military these days. To get over some of our obstacles you will need the help of others – they are simply too much for one man to tackle alone. Tough Mudders, unlike some other types of endurance runners, are team players; they help out other Tough Mudders. We want everyone to compete, but being a Tough Mudder is also about making sure no man is left behind, not worrying about your finish time."
"The Pledge:
As a Tough Mudder I pledge that…
* I understand that Tough Mudder is not a race but a challenge.
* I put teamwork and camaraderie before my course time.
* I do not whine – kids whine.
* I help my fellow Mudders complete the course.
* I overcome all fears." (Photo credit: Tough Mudder)
John LaConte:
"...Part of the attraction to the Beaver Creek Tough Mudder in particular is the high elevation the course is held at, making it among the most challenging on the circuit.
And this year, the course will go even higher.
Beaver Creek and the U.S. Forest Service have redesigned the course, to “not only take advantage of our unique rugged and steep terrain on the lower part of the mountain, but also to incorporate the use of the Centennial Express Lift, making it easier for spectators to watch the event from a variety of locations around the mountain,” says Doug Lovell, chief operating officer at Beaver Creek. “The course travels up to Spruce Saddle, which is situated at 10,200 feet and produces an elevation gain of 2,000 feet for participants. With staged start heats, participants spread out all over the course and activity is taking place all over the mountain and village throughout the day; it's a very festive atmosphere for the participants and spectators....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Let's remind ourselves of the history behind this growing in popularity event:
Tough Mudder:
"Tough Mudder was founded by Englishmen Will Dean and Guy Livingstone. Dean came up with the idea while at Harvard Business School, and it was a finalist in the Harvard Business School’s annual Business Plan Contest. He brought on Guy Livingstone to act as Chief Operating Officer. On an $8,000 marketing budget, they used facebook to launch the first Tough Mudder event on May 2, 2010 at Bear Creek Resort in Allentown, PA. Since then, the number of Tough Mudder events has increased exponentially with 14 events in 2011, and 28 scheduled in 2012.
The Tough Mudder series was created to test toughness, fitness, strength, stamina and mental grit all in one place and all in one day. Sure, there are a few that will test these things – for thousands of dollars and a week of your life. But in one day in one location? We don’t think so. Other mud runs like the Muddy Buddy series? Forget it – unless you want to run alongside your 60-year-old grandmother. Tough Mudder is a truly exceptional event for truly exceptional people. Fair weather runners should stay at home.
FACT – Marathon running is simply boring. And the only thing more boring than doing a marathon is watching a marathon. Road-running may give you a healthy set of lungs, but will leave you with as much upper body strength as Keira Knightley. At Tough Mudder, we want to test your all-around mettle, not just your ability to run in a straight line, on your own, for hours on end, getting bored out of your mind.
Tough Mudder is also about experiencing a true sense of camaraderie that, sadly, is rarely seen outside of the military these days. To get over some of our obstacles you will need the help of others – they are simply too much for one man to tackle alone. Tough Mudders, unlike some other types of endurance runners, are team players; they help out other Tough Mudders. We want everyone to compete, but being a Tough Mudder is also about making sure no man is left behind, not worrying about your finish time."
"The Pledge:
As a Tough Mudder I pledge that…
* I understand that Tough Mudder is not a race but a challenge.
* I put teamwork and camaraderie before my course time.
* I do not whine – kids whine.
* I help my fellow Mudders complete the course.
* I overcome all fears." (Photo credit: Tough Mudder)
John LaConte:
"...Part of the attraction to the Beaver Creek Tough Mudder in particular is the high elevation the course is held at, making it among the most challenging on the circuit.
And this year, the course will go even higher.
Beaver Creek and the U.S. Forest Service have redesigned the course, to “not only take advantage of our unique rugged and steep terrain on the lower part of the mountain, but also to incorporate the use of the Centennial Express Lift, making it easier for spectators to watch the event from a variety of locations around the mountain,” says Doug Lovell, chief operating officer at Beaver Creek. “The course travels up to Spruce Saddle, which is situated at 10,200 feet and produces an elevation gain of 2,000 feet for participants. With staged start heats, participants spread out all over the course and activity is taking place all over the mountain and village throughout the day; it's a very festive atmosphere for the participants and spectators....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice " Morning photo: Reservoir dreams"
All credit Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — An incredible sequence of evening lighting last week, as dark, stormy skies provided a backdrop for some amazing alpenglow...." (See more? Click title)
"SUMMIT COUNTY — An incredible sequence of evening lighting last week, as dark, stormy skies provided a backdrop for some amazing alpenglow...." (See more? Click title)
May 15, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Newsmax/Money News "S&P: '$46 Trillion Perfect Storm' Closing in on US' "
Julie Crawshaw:
"A new report from Standard & Poor’s estimates up to $46 trillion in
refinancing and new financing needs by companies during the next four
years — and credit markets may not be able to handle it, the Business
Insider reports.
According to the report, the global "wall" of non-financial corporate debt
maturities coming due from 2012 to 2016 isn't new to market observers.
Less discussed is the incremental financing that corporate debt issuers
will need during this period to fund capital expenditure and working capital
growth. S&P’s ratings services estimates the total amount of refinancing
and new money requirements during the next five years at between $43
trillion and $46 trillion......" (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A new report from Standard & Poor’s estimates up to $46 trillion in
refinancing and new financing needs by companies during the next four
years — and credit markets may not be able to handle it, the Business
Insider reports.
According to the report, the global "wall" of non-financial corporate debt
maturities coming due from 2012 to 2016 isn't new to market observers.
Less discussed is the incremental financing that corporate debt issuers
will need during this period to fund capital expenditure and working capital
growth. S&P’s ratings services estimates the total amount of refinancing
and new money requirements during the next five years at between $43
trillion and $46 trillion......" (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Town Hall "How Romney and Our Republic Can Win (Part 2)"
(See related post here)
Chuck Norris:
"Last week, I showed how the Republican Party likely would lose the presidential election in November if it were to use conventional campaign tactics. However, I also explained an unconventional strategy that could usher in victory for the GOP and our republic -- a tactic used by President Abraham Lincoln.
This week, I want to elaborate more on Lincoln's concept of a team of rivals -- and who could be a part of it -- and also share with you the inspiring dream my wife, Gena, had that we both hope comes true.
For those who missed Part 1, a book that highlights Lincoln's brilliant action is titled "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln," by Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and presidential historian. Lincoln's idea and action was simply this: Once elected, Lincoln brought together his former GOP competitors (each representing a political faction in the country) and created a united force that ultimately healed the divisions in the land and propelled America forward.
Why couldn't that happen again, especially in a country as divided as ours? And why couldn't the GOP nominee propose such a plan to boost his election probability?..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010.
Chuck Norris:
"Last week, I showed how the Republican Party likely would lose the presidential election in November if it were to use conventional campaign tactics. However, I also explained an unconventional strategy that could usher in victory for the GOP and our republic -- a tactic used by President Abraham Lincoln.
This week, I want to elaborate more on Lincoln's concept of a team of rivals -- and who could be a part of it -- and also share with you the inspiring dream my wife, Gena, had that we both hope comes true.
For those who missed Part 1, a book that highlights Lincoln's brilliant action is titled "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln," by Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and presidential historian. Lincoln's idea and action was simply this: Once elected, Lincoln brought together his former GOP competitors (each representing a political faction in the country) and created a united force that ultimately healed the divisions in the land and propelled America forward.
Why couldn't that happen again, especially in a country as divided as ours? And why couldn't the GOP nominee propose such a plan to boost his election probability?..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010.
SandBoxBlogs: Craig Daily Press "‘Where I was meant to be’: Craig resident keeps family close to heart while serving in Afghanistan "
Joe Moylan:
"On May 1, President Barack Obama marked the one-year anniversary of U.S. forces locating and killing Osama bin Laden by visiting Afghanistan.
In a televised address from Bagram Air Base, Obama discussed an agreement he signed with Afghan President Hamid Karzai to pull U.S. combat forces out of the country by 2014.
But, the president also pledged to continue to send an undisclosed number of soldiers to train Afghan forces and carry out limited counterterrorism operations until 2024.
For the next 12 years American servicemen and women will continue to travel to a far away country to engage the enemy, leaving behind friends, family, husbands, wives and children.
On April 28, three days before the president's address, Pfc. Ethan Tyrel Robinson, 21, of Craig, was deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"On May 1, President Barack Obama marked the one-year anniversary of U.S. forces locating and killing Osama bin Laden by visiting Afghanistan.
In a televised address from Bagram Air Base, Obama discussed an agreement he signed with Afghan President Hamid Karzai to pull U.S. combat forces out of the country by 2014.
But, the president also pledged to continue to send an undisclosed number of soldiers to train Afghan forces and carry out limited counterterrorism operations until 2024.
For the next 12 years American servicemen and women will continue to travel to a far away country to engage the enemy, leaving behind friends, family, husbands, wives and children.
On April 28, three days before the president's address, Pfc. Ethan Tyrel Robinson, 21, of Craig, was deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Washington Examiner "Border agents dispute claim that illegal immigrant tide is slowing"
Sara Carter:
"The once red-hot issue of illegal immigration has cooled considerably in recent months, in large part because of studies like one from the Pew Hispanic Center that said the flood of people entering the U.S. from across the Mexican border has slowed, and that the number actually returning to Mexico from the U.S. has increased, reversing a decades-long trend.
But federal law enforcement agents on the border are skeptical that the illegal immigrant tide is slowing. And new information from the U.S. financial sector shows that more money is flowing from American cities to Mexico in the form of remittances from immigrants than last year.
Federal law enforcement officials interviewed by The Washington Examiner say security is being compromised as the government seeks to keep a lid on the border as a campaign issue during the presidential election cycle. Department of Homeland Security's Border Patrol agents and Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers are being told not to make arrests of noncriminal illegal immigrants, and not to patrol areas of high traffic along the roughly 2,000-mile Southwest border.
A Border Patrol official working along the Texas border said administration officials are deliberately failing to document what is actually happening on the border. "In many cases my supervisors make it clear that they don't want increased apprehension numbers, which means no arrests," he said.
The government is also failing to patrol hundreds of miles of federal wildlife reserves that fall under the jurisdiction of the Interior Department. That has given smugglers and illegal immigrants a clear corridor to enter the county and has skewed national arrest figures, an official said. The U.S. is allowing "drug and human smugglers in without a fight" in parts of the Southwest, he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The once red-hot issue of illegal immigration has cooled considerably in recent months, in large part because of studies like one from the Pew Hispanic Center that said the flood of people entering the U.S. from across the Mexican border has slowed, and that the number actually returning to Mexico from the U.S. has increased, reversing a decades-long trend.
But federal law enforcement agents on the border are skeptical that the illegal immigrant tide is slowing. And new information from the U.S. financial sector shows that more money is flowing from American cities to Mexico in the form of remittances from immigrants than last year.
Federal law enforcement officials interviewed by The Washington Examiner say security is being compromised as the government seeks to keep a lid on the border as a campaign issue during the presidential election cycle. Department of Homeland Security's Border Patrol agents and Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers are being told not to make arrests of noncriminal illegal immigrants, and not to patrol areas of high traffic along the roughly 2,000-mile Southwest border.
A Border Patrol official working along the Texas border said administration officials are deliberately failing to document what is actually happening on the border. "In many cases my supervisors make it clear that they don't want increased apprehension numbers, which means no arrests," he said.
The government is also failing to patrol hundreds of miles of federal wildlife reserves that fall under the jurisdiction of the Interior Department. That has given smugglers and illegal immigrants a clear corridor to enter the county and has skewed national arrest figures, an official said. The U.S. is allowing "drug and human smugglers in without a fight" in parts of the Southwest, he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Greeley Gazette "Sheriffs to lose arrest power in Delaware"
A must read and very scary report.
Matt Lacy:
"Private meetings, political chicanery and the resurrection of a dead bill under a different name were all part of the tactics employed by the Delaware state legislature who were in fear of a single sheriff who was simply doing what his constitutional duties allowed.
On a 36-2 vote the Delaware state House approved a bill that states the sheriff or his deputies are only considered to be law enforcement officers when the court says so. The bill now moves to the senate where it is unclear if Republicans will oppose it or not.
Senate Majority leader Gary Simpson told a consituent, “Regardless of the outcome of this particular piece of legislation, I am convinced the issue will eventually be decided by the Courts and I can live with their decision either way in regards to their interpretation of the Constitution.”
Unlike police chiefs, who are hired by government officials, sheriffs are elected by the people and historically have been recognized as a highest-ranking law enforcement officer in their counties.
There have been several threats to the authority of sheriffs recently. In Montana, a proposal would have required all federal law enforcement officers to coordinate any activities in counties with the local sheriff.
And in Maricopa County, Ariz., Sheriff Joe Arpaio continues to give the administration headaches with his investigation of whether Barack Obama is perpetrating a fraud on county voters by running for president without being an eligible candidate....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Matt Lacy:
"Private meetings, political chicanery and the resurrection of a dead bill under a different name were all part of the tactics employed by the Delaware state legislature who were in fear of a single sheriff who was simply doing what his constitutional duties allowed.
On a 36-2 vote the Delaware state House approved a bill that states the sheriff or his deputies are only considered to be law enforcement officers when the court says so. The bill now moves to the senate where it is unclear if Republicans will oppose it or not.
Senate Majority leader Gary Simpson told a consituent, “Regardless of the outcome of this particular piece of legislation, I am convinced the issue will eventually be decided by the Courts and I can live with their decision either way in regards to their interpretation of the Constitution.”
Unlike police chiefs, who are hired by government officials, sheriffs are elected by the people and historically have been recognized as a highest-ranking law enforcement officer in their counties.
There have been several threats to the authority of sheriffs recently. In Montana, a proposal would have required all federal law enforcement officers to coordinate any activities in counties with the local sheriff.
And in Maricopa County, Ariz., Sheriff Joe Arpaio continues to give the administration headaches with his investigation of whether Barack Obama is perpetrating a fraud on county voters by running for president without being an eligible candidate....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "Nogales CBP Officers Seize Nearly $600,000 in Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Heroin"
"Nogales, Ariz. — An 18-year-old Mexican national attempting to smuggle approximately 57 pounds of cocaine, three pounds of methamphetamine and 2.5 pounds of heroin into the United States was arrested Wednesday by U.S. Customs and Border Protectiom (CBP) officers assigned to the Dennis DeConcini Port.
Officers referred the man for a secondary inspection of his Ford Expedition after a CBP canine alerted to the presence of drugs. During the secondary inspection, officers located 22 packages of cocaine, two packages of methamphetamine and one package of heroin. The drugs have a combined value of more than $595,000.
The drugs and vehicle were processed for seizure. The subject was arrested and turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.
Individuals arrested may be charged by complaint, the method by which a person is charged with criminal activity, which raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent unless and until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
CBP's Office of Field Operations is the primary organization within Homeland Security tasked with an anti-terrorism mission at our nation’s ports. CBP officers screen all people, vehicles and goods entering the United States while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel. Their mission also includes carrying out border-related duties, including narcotics interdiction, enforcing immigration and trade laws, and protecting the nation's food supply and agriculture industry from pests and diseases.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Officers in Pharr Seize Cocaine Worth Half Million Dollars, Reynosa Woman Arrested"
""Pharr, Texas— U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations at the Pharr/Reynosa International Bridge seized more than 15 pounds of cocaine and arrested a Reynosa woman on Wednesday.
The estimated street value of the cocaine is $503,680.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
The estimated street value of the cocaine is $503,680.
On Wednesday a 2005 Nissan XTrail driven by a 42-year-old female Mexican national arrived at the Pharr International Bridge accompanied by her 14-year-old son. The woman presented a Mexican border crossing card for herself and the boy to the CBP officer who subsequently referred the vehicle and occupants to secondary for further inspection. Officers discovered six packages of cocaine, weighing approximately 15.74 pounds, hidden within the vehicle’s dash area. CBP seized the cocaine and vehicle.
The driver was turned over to U.S. Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation. The boy was released to an adult family member.
“This load of hard narcotics was intercepted due to excellent enforcement and observational skills by our officers,” said Efrain Solis Jr., Hidalgo Port Director. “CBP’s commitment to help keep dangerous drugs from crossing our border is how we engage in the fight against drugs.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
SandBoxBlogs: Crested Butte News "Molybdenum mining company open to leaving in exchange for other land "
Mark Reaman:
"It was announced Monday that negotiations have been taking place for the last year that might lead U.S. Energy Corp to give up its right to mine molybdenum on Mt. Emmons. The mining company announced on May 14 that it is open to some sort of “land exchange or similar process with the United States for the mining claims associated with the Mt. Emmons Project.....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"It was announced Monday that negotiations have been taking place for the last year that might lead U.S. Energy Corp to give up its right to mine molybdenum on Mt. Emmons. The mining company announced on May 14 that it is open to some sort of “land exchange or similar process with the United States for the mining claims associated with the Mt. Emmons Project.....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Study affirms newer West Divide seep is ‘naturally occurring'"
I can remember clear back as far as the late 1960's when natural seepage of gas was something we had to study for science classes in the North Fork Valley area.
Now the only question that remains is if we will be given any freedom from yellow journalism pushing scare and fear tactics in the daily newspaper.
A shout out of thanks goes to Colorado's big oil and gas and our Garfield County BOCC for sticking to just the facts.
**Correction on May 16th: 'I Like Facts' has accurately pointed out that I made an error while giving byline credit. This article on the Post Independent should be proudly attributed to reporter John Stroud, not John Colson. Bylines and credit for output is lifeblood in the newspaper industry. 'I Like Facts' is correct implying that 'SandBox Nanny' knows that. With sincere apologies to John Stroud for overlooking him and to John Colson for not being able to snag credit for the article; the byline error I made is now corrected. See below:
John Colson: John Stroud:
"“Methane gas samples collected in the area of the reported 2008 seep yielded only biogenic [naturally occurring] gas,” Garfield County Oil & Gas Liaison Kirby Wynn reported to the Board of County Commissioners on Monday.
Biogenic gas occurs when organic material breaks down and bubbles to the surface, while the “thermogenic” type of gas detected in the 2004 seep is released as a result of drilling activity in deep rock formations.
Wynn's quarterly update of oil and gas activity in Garfield County included an overview of the findings by independent consultant Geoff Thyne. The University of Wyoming geologist was hired by the county last year to study ongoing concerns by West Divide Creek resident Lisa Bracken.
Thyne reported that recent testing indicates no presence of “thermogenic” gas, and that the 2004 seep “is on a path toward being remediated.”
“I think we have reached the point of diminishing returns in terms of expending county resources unless there is a big change,” Thyne reported. “The reality is that the 2004 seep is relatively small, has been remediated as best they can manage, been sampled a lot and had several studies associated with the seep and surrounding area....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Now the only question that remains is if we will be given any freedom from yellow journalism pushing scare and fear tactics in the daily newspaper.
A shout out of thanks goes to Colorado's big oil and gas and our Garfield County BOCC for sticking to just the facts.
**Correction on May 16th: 'I Like Facts' has accurately pointed out that I made an error while giving byline credit. This article on the Post Independent should be proudly attributed to reporter John Stroud, not John Colson. Bylines and credit for output is lifeblood in the newspaper industry. 'I Like Facts' is correct implying that 'SandBox Nanny' knows that. With sincere apologies to John Stroud for overlooking him and to John Colson for not being able to snag credit for the article; the byline error I made is now corrected. See below:
"“Methane gas samples collected in the area of the reported 2008 seep yielded only biogenic [naturally occurring] gas,” Garfield County Oil & Gas Liaison Kirby Wynn reported to the Board of County Commissioners on Monday.
Biogenic gas occurs when organic material breaks down and bubbles to the surface, while the “thermogenic” type of gas detected in the 2004 seep is released as a result of drilling activity in deep rock formations.
Wynn's quarterly update of oil and gas activity in Garfield County included an overview of the findings by independent consultant Geoff Thyne. The University of Wyoming geologist was hired by the county last year to study ongoing concerns by West Divide Creek resident Lisa Bracken.
Thyne reported that recent testing indicates no presence of “thermogenic” gas, and that the 2004 seep “is on a path toward being remediated.”
“I think we have reached the point of diminishing returns in terms of expending county resources unless there is a big change,” Thyne reported. “The reality is that the 2004 seep is relatively small, has been remediated as best they can manage, been sampled a lot and had several studies associated with the seep and surrounding area....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "CMC trustees dump SourceGas lease agreement"
Disappointing at best, that our CMC Trustees decided to punt instead of lead.
Once again, commentators appear to have been spot on in their observations over the compressor station issue. Nothing is going to satisfy the small minority that have made protests.
What they really appear to have been after is a complete withdrawal from Source Gas yet no interruptions to their quality of life served by Source Gas fueling their homes.
In addition, perfectly content to be 'non-involved' with CMC admin to the extent that Jensen had no concerns or any inkling of an idea that he was creating a public protest when he negotiated the original lease.
Folks could also observe now that the 'shaming' of CMC by Marianne Ackerman that raised such a ruckus was completely ineffective and negative in outcome. Simply getting in touch with the trustees and expressing a respectful opinion would have sufficed.
Can our CMC trustees really be blamed now for taking the easier road out and simply letting the courts be the bad guys? Not really. As that is exactly what is going to happen now with the only outcome being the same one at the onset of all this controversy.
Source Gas is a public utility that has a critical need that takes care of many people, not just the few that wanted a big show yet somebody else to handle the leadership and legalities. There will be a compressor station up on Spring Valley.
Only question that remains is if it will now be force placed onto one of these protesters private property or if it will be placed in the best spot all along.
Which is right where CMC negotiated it to be in the first place.
Predictable and not surprising that our trustees decided to punt, take the easier road.
Yet disappointing that they decided in the end to not lead.
John Colson:
"During a public comment session, the board's decision drew a mixed response...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Once again, commentators appear to have been spot on in their observations over the compressor station issue. Nothing is going to satisfy the small minority that have made protests.
What they really appear to have been after is a complete withdrawal from Source Gas yet no interruptions to their quality of life served by Source Gas fueling their homes.
In addition, perfectly content to be 'non-involved' with CMC admin to the extent that Jensen had no concerns or any inkling of an idea that he was creating a public protest when he negotiated the original lease.
Folks could also observe now that the 'shaming' of CMC by Marianne Ackerman that raised such a ruckus was completely ineffective and negative in outcome. Simply getting in touch with the trustees and expressing a respectful opinion would have sufficed.
Can our CMC trustees really be blamed now for taking the easier road out and simply letting the courts be the bad guys? Not really. As that is exactly what is going to happen now with the only outcome being the same one at the onset of all this controversy.
Source Gas is a public utility that has a critical need that takes care of many people, not just the few that wanted a big show yet somebody else to handle the leadership and legalities. There will be a compressor station up on Spring Valley.
Only question that remains is if it will now be force placed onto one of these protesters private property or if it will be placed in the best spot all along.
Which is right where CMC negotiated it to be in the first place.
Predictable and not surprising that our trustees decided to punt, take the easier road.
Yet disappointing that they decided in the end to not lead.
John Colson:
"During a public comment session, the board's decision drew a mixed response...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Steamboat Today " Jimmy Westlake: The Centaur peeks in"
All credit Jimmy Westlake:
"Centaurs figured heavily in the mythology of the ancient Greeks — so much so that two of them are immortalized in the stars as our constellations of Sagittarius the Archer and Centaurus the Centaur. The legend of these half-man, half-horse beasts might have originated when someone long ago first saw humans on horseback and imagined them to be some sort of human-equine hybrid.
Centaurus is one of our most ancient constellations, first mentioned in Greek literature from the fourth century BC. It is thought to represent the centaur named Chiron. He was a wise old centaur that served as the personal tutor of Greek heroes like Hercules, Theseus and Jason.
During one of Hercules’ many rowdy scuffles, Chiron accidentally was nicked by one of Hercules’ poisoned arrows. Being immortal, Chiron could not die, but the agony of the wound was so severe that he begged Zeus to revoke his immortality. This Zeus did, and Chiron was mercifully allowed to die. Zeus then immortalized the image of Chiron among the stars as our constellation of Centaurus...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Centaurs figured heavily in the mythology of the ancient Greeks — so much so that two of them are immortalized in the stars as our constellations of Sagittarius the Archer and Centaurus the Centaur. The legend of these half-man, half-horse beasts might have originated when someone long ago first saw humans on horseback and imagined them to be some sort of human-equine hybrid.
Centaurus is one of our most ancient constellations, first mentioned in Greek literature from the fourth century BC. It is thought to represent the centaur named Chiron. He was a wise old centaur that served as the personal tutor of Greek heroes like Hercules, Theseus and Jason.
During one of Hercules’ many rowdy scuffles, Chiron accidentally was nicked by one of Hercules’ poisoned arrows. Being immortal, Chiron could not die, but the agony of the wound was so severe that he begged Zeus to revoke his immortality. This Zeus did, and Chiron was mercifully allowed to die. Zeus then immortalized the image of Chiron among the stars as our constellation of Centaurus...."
(Read more? Click title)
May 14, 2012
SandBoxBlogs:Washington Times "New poll gives Romney biggest lead yet"
Dave Boyer:
"In one of the first surveys since President Obama came out in favor of gay marriage, Republican Mitt Romney holds a seven-point lead over the president in Friday's Rasmussen daily tracking poll — his largest lead in any survey so far.
Mr. Romney reached 50 percent for the first time in the poll, compared with 43 percent for Mr. Obama.
The poll didn't delve into gay marriage; Rasmussen noted that the results came a week after a disappointing jobs report that "raised new questions about the state of the economy." The number of people who fear their personal finances are getting worse increased to 47 percent, up from 43 percent last week...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"In one of the first surveys since President Obama came out in favor of gay marriage, Republican Mitt Romney holds a seven-point lead over the president in Friday's Rasmussen daily tracking poll — his largest lead in any survey so far.
Mr. Romney reached 50 percent for the first time in the poll, compared with 43 percent for Mr. Obama.
The poll didn't delve into gay marriage; Rasmussen noted that the results came a week after a disappointing jobs report that "raised new questions about the state of the economy." The number of people who fear their personal finances are getting worse increased to 47 percent, up from 43 percent last week...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Goose Radio "At Liberty – Romney Threads the Needle"
Goose Nissley:
"...In my estimation, the speech was a big success. Romney articulately shined light on the bridge between his faith and that of millions of Americans. Will Mormons and Evangelicals somehow magically agree on theology? No! But do we share a common worldview and common goals in the public sphere? Absolutely. That he struck that tone and needled that thread so well gives me even greater hope for the potential farewell of President Obama from his current home next January....."
(Watch Romney's speech? Say hello to Goose? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"...In my estimation, the speech was a big success. Romney articulately shined light on the bridge between his faith and that of millions of Americans. Will Mormons and Evangelicals somehow magically agree on theology? No! But do we share a common worldview and common goals in the public sphere? Absolutely. That he struck that tone and needled that thread so well gives me even greater hope for the potential farewell of President Obama from his current home next January....."
(Watch Romney's speech? Say hello to Goose? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill/On the Money "Report says 230,000 unemployed losing benefits over weekend"
Vicki Needham:
"More than 230,000 unemployed workers will lose their jobless benefits this weekend as portions of federal programs expire across several states.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"More than 230,000 unemployed workers will lose their jobless benefits this weekend as portions of federal programs expire across several states.
All told, 409,300 long-term unemployed Americans in 27 states will have lost upward of 20 weeks of federal unemployment benefits by this past Saturday, even as the many state jobless rates remain high, according to a new analysis by the National Employment Law Project (NELP).
The latest batch of cuts affects 236,300 unemployed people in eight states — California (11%), Texas (7%) Pennsylvania (7.5%), Florida (9%), Illinois (8.8%) North Carolina (9.7%) Colorado (7.8%) and Connecticut (7.7%) — half of which have jobless rates above the 8.1 percent national average posted in April....." (Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Red State "What the Mainstream Media Isn’t Reporting About Solyndra "
'repmorgangriffith' diary:"After just a short time in Congress, I find myself more keenly aware of the research and reporting failures of the modern mainstream media. If a story gets more depth and attention than the typical 10 second sound bite, I admit, I’m surprised. Solyndra is no different.
There are a number of facts surrounding the Solyndra story that don’t seem to be getting any attention. A significant part of the public outrage regarding the bankrupt company isn’t centered on their failed business model or external factors; it’s the millions of taxpayer dollars that the Obama Administration lost on Solyndra after the business was doomed.
After Solyndra defaulted and they knew Solyndra was in real financial trouble, Secretary Steven Chu’s Department of Energy (DOE) staff made a decision by December 10, 2010, to subordinate $75 million of taxpayer money so more private capital could be injected into Solyndra. Subordination means that outside private investors are given superiority over taxpayers in the event of bankruptcy. At that point, $440 million of the $535 million loan guarantee already had been pumped into the company.
By law Secretary Chu wasn’t allowed to subordinate the taxpayers’ money. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 specifically states that the loan guarantee “shall be subject to the condition that the obligation is not subordinate to other financing.” It was the clear intention of Congress that taxpayers should be reimbursed first.
For a company that had already been declared in default and had a collapsed business model because the Chinese were selling their solar panels for less, one might question the sanity of private investors who gambled on Solyndra in December of 2010. Were they after Solyndra’s intellectual property (IP) rights?
As a private investor and the dominant financier, could Argonaut’s support of President Obama have helped them secure Solyndra’s IP assets?...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
There are a number of facts surrounding the Solyndra story that don’t seem to be getting any attention. A significant part of the public outrage regarding the bankrupt company isn’t centered on their failed business model or external factors; it’s the millions of taxpayer dollars that the Obama Administration lost on Solyndra after the business was doomed.
After Solyndra defaulted and they knew Solyndra was in real financial trouble, Secretary Steven Chu’s Department of Energy (DOE) staff made a decision by December 10, 2010, to subordinate $75 million of taxpayer money so more private capital could be injected into Solyndra. Subordination means that outside private investors are given superiority over taxpayers in the event of bankruptcy. At that point, $440 million of the $535 million loan guarantee already had been pumped into the company.
By law Secretary Chu wasn’t allowed to subordinate the taxpayers’ money. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 specifically states that the loan guarantee “shall be subject to the condition that the obligation is not subordinate to other financing.” It was the clear intention of Congress that taxpayers should be reimbursed first.
For a company that had already been declared in default and had a collapsed business model because the Chinese were selling their solar panels for less, one might question the sanity of private investors who gambled on Solyndra in December of 2010. Were they after Solyndra’s intellectual property (IP) rights?
As a private investor and the dominant financier, could Argonaut’s support of President Obama have helped them secure Solyndra’s IP assets?...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Citizen Center "Citizen Center Asks Governor Hickenlooper to Veto HB12-1036 (CORA/Elections) "
Marilyn Marks:
"Citizen Center has asked Governor Hickenlooper to veto HB-1036, the tortured merger successor to SB-155 (CORA and elections).
The letter transmitted to the Governor is linked here, and attached as well. Citizen Center also supports the veto request made by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe in their poignant letter to Governor Hickenlooper. Colorado Voter Group also filed a request for a veto. We anticipate that other non-profit groups and concerned citizens will file similar requests.
The flawed legislative process resulted in a high-impact bill that by design of the sponsors (Heath/White/Court/Murray) allowed almost no debate, and ignored the expert input of the non-partisan Lawyers Committee Task Force on Elections.
It resulted in anti-transparency election process legislation that:
·
- degrades Colorado’s already substandard election transparency
- institutionalizes voter intimidation
- strips ordinary citizens of their rights to verify elections, while creating a special insider status for partisan and special interests
- undermines voters’ constitutional rights to a secret ballot
- was passed in an illegitimate nonpublic process that intentionally obstructed the expression of citizens’ objections.
We have confidence that Governor Hickenlooper will undertake a serious review of the negative impacts of the bill on Colorado’s elections. We trust that he will conclude that this legislation is contrary to transparency principles of good government and use the power of his veto to send a message about the need for transparent and verifiable elections.
We encourage you to join Citizen Center and others in requesting this veto on this matter that affects every Colorado voter. You may fax your request to Governor Hickenlooper at (303) 866-2003.
Marilyn Marks
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Enforcement Officers Memorial Week"
Rebecca Hodgson:
"Editor:
National Police Week, also known as Enforcement Officers Memorial Week, occurs each year during the week of May 15 and recognizes the service and sacrifice of U.S. law enforcement.
Established in 1962 by a joint Congressional resolution, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.
You may notice blue ribbons pinned to citizens or flying from car antennas around town. The blue ribbons are reminders of law enforcement officers who have fallen and to honor the men and women who serve their communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year in and year out.
The Aspen Elks Lodge is hosting a dinner for law enforcement officers and their families on May 15 at the lodge. We welcome the opportunity to show our appreciation for the dedication and personal sacrifices of our law enforcement officers in the Roaring Fork Valley and hope that many officers and their families from Aspen, Pitkin County, Snowmass Village, Basalt, and Eagle County will be able to attend.
Please consider saying thank you to the officers in your community during National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Week, May 13 –19....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Editor:
National Police Week, also known as Enforcement Officers Memorial Week, occurs each year during the week of May 15 and recognizes the service and sacrifice of U.S. law enforcement.
Established in 1962 by a joint Congressional resolution, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.
You may notice blue ribbons pinned to citizens or flying from car antennas around town. The blue ribbons are reminders of law enforcement officers who have fallen and to honor the men and women who serve their communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year in and year out.
The Aspen Elks Lodge is hosting a dinner for law enforcement officers and their families on May 15 at the lodge. We welcome the opportunity to show our appreciation for the dedication and personal sacrifices of our law enforcement officers in the Roaring Fork Valley and hope that many officers and their families from Aspen, Pitkin County, Snowmass Village, Basalt, and Eagle County will be able to attend.
Please consider saying thank you to the officers in your community during National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Week, May 13 –19....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "Two CBP Employees Named Finalists for Service to America Medal"
"Washington—Two U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees have been named as finalists in the annual Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Homeland Security Medal for their contributions to keeping America's borders safe and secure.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
The employees, Nael Samha and Thomas Roland Jr., were nominated for the award in recognition of their efforts to create a specialized smartphone application that remotely links CBP personnel on the frontline to vitally important databases. Use of the application has directly led to enforcement actions against more than 450 drug traffickers, weapons smugglers, potential terror suspects and others since it was introduced in May 2010.
The application Samha and Roland created makes it easier for officers and agents to access information without being in front of a computer terminal or having to communicate via radio with someone who is. That means those officers and agents can focus fully on their mission.
In addition to CBP's enforcement mission, the application affords new efficiencies for CBP to keep legitimate trade and agriculture moving quickly by allowing officers to release shipments that have been inspected on the spot instead of hours later once they return to a computer terminal.
Samha, a program manager in CBP's Office of Information and Technology and Roland, a program manager in CBP's Office of Field Operations, are among four individuals or groups who are finalists for the medal. The Service to America Medals program is sponsored by the Partnership for Public Service, and the finalists' announcement coincides with Public Service Recognition Week.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 13. Previous winners from CBP and its legacy agencies include Robert Rutherford, winner of the 2002 Justice and Law Enforcement medal and Kevin McAleenan, winner of the 2005 Call to Service Medal.
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: Summit Daily News "Heroin ODs spike in Summit County this year"
Caddie Nath:
"Local law enforcement is working to locate the source of what might be a more potent batch of heroin, but the investigation is more difficult without the help of the now-defunct Summit County Drug Task Force.
“We don't have the intelligence gathering that we used to have,” Minor said. “With the drug task force we had a pulse on the drug community and what was going on. We're just purely reactionary now.”
The task force was dissolved in 2010, when the state Justice Assistance Grants program, one of the organization's major funding sources, cut it off to refocus the money on rehabilitation and prevention efforts.
Local governments also contributed to the task force, which once staffed two full-time agents and a part-time administrative employee, but couldn't afford to keep the organization running after the state money was lost.
Law-enforcement officials said without the task force, they are relying on the public to help them track down the source of the heroin.
“As in any drug issue, someone knows something about the person who's bringing this stuff into our community,” Minor said. “We have plenty of resources up here to help people, but we want the person who's (distributing) it to be held accountable....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Local law enforcement is working to locate the source of what might be a more potent batch of heroin, but the investigation is more difficult without the help of the now-defunct Summit County Drug Task Force.
“We don't have the intelligence gathering that we used to have,” Minor said. “With the drug task force we had a pulse on the drug community and what was going on. We're just purely reactionary now.”
The task force was dissolved in 2010, when the state Justice Assistance Grants program, one of the organization's major funding sources, cut it off to refocus the money on rehabilitation and prevention efforts.
Local governments also contributed to the task force, which once staffed two full-time agents and a part-time administrative employee, but couldn't afford to keep the organization running after the state money was lost.
Law-enforcement officials said without the task force, they are relying on the public to help them track down the source of the heroin.
“As in any drug issue, someone knows something about the person who's bringing this stuff into our community,” Minor said. “We have plenty of resources up here to help people, but we want the person who's (distributing) it to be held accountable....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Eagle "49 bodies discovered along Mexican highway"
PORFIRIO IBARRA RAMIREZ:
"MONTERREY, Mexico -- Forty-nine decapitated and mutilated bodies were found Sunday dumped on a highway connecting the northern Mexican metropolis of Monterrey to the U.S. border in what appeared to be the latest blow in an escalating war of intimidation among drug gangs.
Mexico's organized crime groups often leave multiple bodies in public places as warnings to their rivals, and authorities said at least a few of the latest victims had tattoos of the Santa Muerte cult popular among drug traffickers.
The bodies of 43 men and six women were found in the town of San Juan on the non-toll highway to the border city of Reynosa about 4 a.m., forcing police and troops to close the highway. ....
......De la Garza said he did not rule out the possibility that the victims were U.S.-bound migrants.
Mexican drug cartels have been waging an increasingly bloody war to control smuggling routes, the local drug market and extortion rackets, including shakedowns of migrants seeking to reach the United States...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"MONTERREY, Mexico -- Forty-nine decapitated and mutilated bodies were found Sunday dumped on a highway connecting the northern Mexican metropolis of Monterrey to the U.S. border in what appeared to be the latest blow in an escalating war of intimidation among drug gangs.
Mexico's organized crime groups often leave multiple bodies in public places as warnings to their rivals, and authorities said at least a few of the latest victims had tattoos of the Santa Muerte cult popular among drug traffickers.
The bodies of 43 men and six women were found in the town of San Juan on the non-toll highway to the border city of Reynosa about 4 a.m., forcing police and troops to close the highway. ....
......De la Garza said he did not rule out the possibility that the victims were U.S.-bound migrants.
Mexican drug cartels have been waging an increasingly bloody war to control smuggling routes, the local drug market and extortion rackets, including shakedowns of migrants seeking to reach the United States...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Pueblo Chieftain "Woman suspected of injecting teen with heroin "
Nick Bonham:
" 41-year-old woman has been arrested for reportedly injecting a teenage boy with drugs and supplying him with syringes of opium.
Diana Larimore was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, contributing to the deliquency of a minor and violating a protection order....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
" 41-year-old woman has been arrested for reportedly injecting a teenage boy with drugs and supplying him with syringes of opium.
Diana Larimore was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, contributing to the deliquency of a minor and violating a protection order....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Sheriff has provided info to the media"
I'm pretty sure most Garfield County supporters of Sheriff Lou Vallario are aware that he is not all that comfortable in the political aspects of his role. As he states in every election cycle, 'he's a cop, not a politician'.
But his personal feelings do not change the fact that citizens feel more secure and more at ease with the changes and issues they see all around them when it is Sheriff Lou's voice they hear first and his presence that they see.
The folks feel the same frustration with local news reporting that Sheriff Lou is speaking of in his Letter to the Editor today.
Allow me to lend a hand toward the mutual effort of open communications within the county.
In addition to the information provided by Sheriff Vallario in his letter to the PI today, here are some links to direct to source news releases:
Garfield Public Info: http://garcopublicinfo.org/
GarCo Sheriff website: http://www.garcosheriff.com/press_release.html (and) http://www.garcosheriff.com
Grand Junction Daily Sentinel: http://www.gjsentinel.com/ (Dennis Webb covers Garfield County)
KMTS: http://www.kmts.com/
Garfield County official site: http://www.garfield-county.com/index.aspx
Police blotters are also found on all Swift Communications publications by clicking this link and then scrolling down the list until you get to the 'Police' section: http://www.postindependent.com/SECTION/&Profile=1074
Blotters can also be found (usually) on direct access to your local law enforcement agency websites.
This post of mine will reach over 10,000 unique readers and followers this month.
Wonder if self-gratification in using the power held in a news editor's hands, by having the controls of the only local newspaper is worth the damning public relations that upset voices raised in alternate media bring to our community?
Wonder if it will be all that much longer before the employers of the staff of the Glenwood Springs Post Independent start taking serious stock of the major problems they continue to have at the PI?
Wouldn't it just be easier and in the public's best interests for the Glenwood Springs Post Independent to just do the job they choose to have, in ways that serve the overall good of the majority?
Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario:
"I recently read a story in the Post Independent about the Garfield County Sheriff's Office (GCSO) investigating the naked man or men on some of the local trails in the Carbondale area. The story profiled an anonymous victim who made a comment about why we haven't been getting this information out to the public.
We certainly understand her concern and fears. That's why, since the first reported incidents in 2008, all responses on the part of the GCSO that have warranted an offense report have been provided to the local media via our regular press release process. Further, a Crime Stoppers flyer, complete with a photo taken of a possible suspect, was also provided more than once.
Have you seen any of this information in the local media? The fact is we do provide the information to the media, but the sheriff's office has no control over what they deem newsworthy.
So, to the victim interviewed in the Post Independent story as well as all of our citizens, please ask the question of our media, “Why aren't they getting this information out?” The GCSO has been providing it and will continue to provide timely information as this active investigation continues. If anyone would like to receive the same information that we regularly send to the media about all GCSO cases, contact Tanny McGinnis at tmcginnis@garcosheriff.com or go to our website, http://www.garcosheriff.com/, for a complete listing of public releases.
As I understand your frustrations, I would like to personally invite every citizen to attend a personal safety meeting to address any concerns. Join us at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, at the Carbondale Fire House. This will be a 45-minute personal safety presentation followed by a 45-minute open discussion for citizens to voice their concerns...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
But his personal feelings do not change the fact that citizens feel more secure and more at ease with the changes and issues they see all around them when it is Sheriff Lou's voice they hear first and his presence that they see.
The folks feel the same frustration with local news reporting that Sheriff Lou is speaking of in his Letter to the Editor today.
Allow me to lend a hand toward the mutual effort of open communications within the county.
In addition to the information provided by Sheriff Vallario in his letter to the PI today, here are some links to direct to source news releases:
Garfield Public Info: http://garcopublicinfo.org/
GarCo Sheriff website: http://www.garcosheriff.com/press_release.html (and) http://www.garcosheriff.com
Grand Junction Daily Sentinel: http://www.gjsentinel.com/ (Dennis Webb covers Garfield County)
KMTS: http://www.kmts.com/
Garfield County official site: http://www.garfield-county.com/index.aspx
Police blotters are also found on all Swift Communications publications by clicking this link and then scrolling down the list until you get to the 'Police' section: http://www.postindependent.com/SECTION/&Profile=1074
Blotters can also be found (usually) on direct access to your local law enforcement agency websites.
This post of mine will reach over 10,000 unique readers and followers this month.
Wonder if self-gratification in using the power held in a news editor's hands, by having the controls of the only local newspaper is worth the damning public relations that upset voices raised in alternate media bring to our community?
Wonder if it will be all that much longer before the employers of the staff of the Glenwood Springs Post Independent start taking serious stock of the major problems they continue to have at the PI?
Wouldn't it just be easier and in the public's best interests for the Glenwood Springs Post Independent to just do the job they choose to have, in ways that serve the overall good of the majority?
Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario:
"I recently read a story in the Post Independent about the Garfield County Sheriff's Office (GCSO) investigating the naked man or men on some of the local trails in the Carbondale area. The story profiled an anonymous victim who made a comment about why we haven't been getting this information out to the public.
We certainly understand her concern and fears. That's why, since the first reported incidents in 2008, all responses on the part of the GCSO that have warranted an offense report have been provided to the local media via our regular press release process. Further, a Crime Stoppers flyer, complete with a photo taken of a possible suspect, was also provided more than once.
Have you seen any of this information in the local media? The fact is we do provide the information to the media, but the sheriff's office has no control over what they deem newsworthy.
So, to the victim interviewed in the Post Independent story as well as all of our citizens, please ask the question of our media, “Why aren't they getting this information out?” The GCSO has been providing it and will continue to provide timely information as this active investigation continues. If anyone would like to receive the same information that we regularly send to the media about all GCSO cases, contact Tanny McGinnis at tmcginnis@garcosheriff.com or go to our website, http://www.garcosheriff.com/, for a complete listing of public releases.
As I understand your frustrations, I would like to personally invite every citizen to attend a personal safety meeting to address any concerns. Join us at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, at the Carbondale Fire House. This will be a 45-minute personal safety presentation followed by a 45-minute open discussion for citizens to voice their concerns...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Red State "Florida investigation reveals 180,000 non-citizens may be registered to vote "
Dan Spencer:
"Florida officials have discovered that 180,000 registered voters may be non-citizens.
A CBS4/Miami Herald analysis of information supplied by Miami-Dade shows a large number of the potential non-citizens voters cast ballots in the past — including the 2000 election, when the presidency was decided by just over 500 votes.
According to Deputy Supervisor of Elections Christina White, there are a “lot of non-citizens on our registration rolls.”
Florida’s Division of Elections is checking the citizenship of voters by comparing drivers license records, which show whether a licensed driver is also a U.S. citizen.
Non-citizens are able to become registered voters in Florida because if a non-citizen checks the box on the voter registration form that says they are a citizen they are registered to vote, because the form is signed under oath.
Those registered who are identified as possible non-citizens are reported to the State Attorney’s office The States Attorney may charge anyone who unlawfully registered to vote with a felony.
According to the Heritage Foundation’s Hans Von Spakovsky, Florida’s investigation is only looking at legal immigrants, not illegal aliens, who may have registered to vote even though they are not citizens. Von Spakovsky, a former member of the Federal Elections Commission, says that Florida is doing the right thing with this investigation, but is only scratching the surface. Florida can’t check for illegal aliens who registered to vote because the Federal government is not giving Florida access to Immigration and Naturalization Service records which would help identify illegals who have registered to vote.
You can watch Bill Hemmer and Hans Von Spakovsky discuss Florida’s investigation of non-citizens illegally voting in the accompanying video here......" (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Florida officials have discovered that 180,000 registered voters may be non-citizens.
A CBS4/Miami Herald analysis of information supplied by Miami-Dade shows a large number of the potential non-citizens voters cast ballots in the past — including the 2000 election, when the presidency was decided by just over 500 votes.
According to Deputy Supervisor of Elections Christina White, there are a “lot of non-citizens on our registration rolls.”
Florida’s Division of Elections is checking the citizenship of voters by comparing drivers license records, which show whether a licensed driver is also a U.S. citizen.
Non-citizens are able to become registered voters in Florida because if a non-citizen checks the box on the voter registration form that says they are a citizen they are registered to vote, because the form is signed under oath.
Those registered who are identified as possible non-citizens are reported to the State Attorney’s office The States Attorney may charge anyone who unlawfully registered to vote with a felony.
According to the Heritage Foundation’s Hans Von Spakovsky, Florida’s investigation is only looking at legal immigrants, not illegal aliens, who may have registered to vote even though they are not citizens. Von Spakovsky, a former member of the Federal Elections Commission, says that Florida is doing the right thing with this investigation, but is only scratching the surface. Florida can’t check for illegal aliens who registered to vote because the Federal government is not giving Florida access to Immigration and Naturalization Service records which would help identify illegals who have registered to vote.
You can watch Bill Hemmer and Hans Von Spakovsky discuss Florida’s investigation of non-citizens illegally voting in the accompanying video here......" (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Criminal acts have consequences"
Marty Lich:
"Having read Debbie Centeno's May 8 letter, “Sister worried about gang colors at Strawberry Days,” I feel safe in reassuring Ms. Centeno that if she and her nephews do not have active warrants out for their arrests, are not self-proclaimed Sureños gang members wearing blue bandanna gang colors, do not possess marijuana, drug paraphernalia, nor have forged IDs with another active warrant due to their illegal status in the U.S., and multiple deportations already, they will have a good time at Strawberry Days. And finally, that they do not attempt to flee from police, as her brother David Centeno did in June 2011, for that is a crime as well.
To refresh her memory, please refer to the Glenwood Springs police report published in the Post Independent June 22, 2011. Ideally Ms. Centeno's brother will be deported once again after he serves his time....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Having read Debbie Centeno's May 8 letter, “Sister worried about gang colors at Strawberry Days,” I feel safe in reassuring Ms. Centeno that if she and her nephews do not have active warrants out for their arrests, are not self-proclaimed Sureños gang members wearing blue bandanna gang colors, do not possess marijuana, drug paraphernalia, nor have forged IDs with another active warrant due to their illegal status in the U.S., and multiple deportations already, they will have a good time at Strawberry Days. And finally, that they do not attempt to flee from police, as her brother David Centeno did in June 2011, for that is a crime as well.
To refresh her memory, please refer to the Glenwood Springs police report published in the Post Independent June 22, 2011. Ideally Ms. Centeno's brother will be deported once again after he serves his time....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Looking for a Related compromise"
Now this, is the Johnny Boyd the folks like to read.
Johnny Boyd:
"The recent announcement that Related Companies intends to repurchase Base Village immediately brings to mind the possibilities of Snowmass Village. Snowmass can become anything it wants, if only it has a benefactor with vision to master plan it as something new. It is like a blank canvas that can now be painted as whatever the artist desires. Related has that power. It will be interesting to discover how it wields it.
I’m pretty sure that everyone agrees that the plan that was sought and approved back during the real estate bubble is finished. Banks aren’t loaning money to purchase condominium-style real estate in second-home markets even if the marginally wealthy had the inclination to buy. The truly wealthy don’t need banks to get money because they probably own them.
If this is the conclusion, then I’m fairly sure that Related will approach the town of Snowmass Village with a proposal for constructing something it feels will sell in the new market reality. That means, of course, the bank owners will be the target market. High-end condos are the only short-term solution to our long-term recession....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Johnny Boyd:
"The recent announcement that Related Companies intends to repurchase Base Village immediately brings to mind the possibilities of Snowmass Village. Snowmass can become anything it wants, if only it has a benefactor with vision to master plan it as something new. It is like a blank canvas that can now be painted as whatever the artist desires. Related has that power. It will be interesting to discover how it wields it.
I’m pretty sure that everyone agrees that the plan that was sought and approved back during the real estate bubble is finished. Banks aren’t loaning money to purchase condominium-style real estate in second-home markets even if the marginally wealthy had the inclination to buy. The truly wealthy don’t need banks to get money because they probably own them.
If this is the conclusion, then I’m fairly sure that Related will approach the town of Snowmass Village with a proposal for constructing something it feels will sell in the new market reality. That means, of course, the bank owners will be the target market. High-end condos are the only short-term solution to our long-term recession....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Beaver Creek gets final OK for race course upgrades"
Congratulations to Beaver Creek Resort!
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Beaver Creek Ski Area last week got the final Forest Service OK for a several on-mountain projects that will help the resort prepare for the 2015 World Alpine Ski Championships.
Improvements include:
Forest Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams said improvements will help showcase skiing on national forest lands and touted public collaboration in the review and decision-making process.
The project was designed to enhance and sustain Beaver Creek’s ability to provide a world-class venue for Alpine ski events. All activities are within Beaver Creek’s Forest Service-administered Special Use Permit boundary....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Beaver Creek Ski Area last week got the final Forest Service OK for a several on-mountain projects that will help the resort prepare for the 2015 World Alpine Ski Championships.
Improvements include:
- A new women’s downhill racecourse
- A women’s giant slalom racecourse using portions of existing ski trails on Grouse Mountain
- Modifications to the existing men’s downhill racecourse
- Replacement of Red Tail Camp and expanded finish area
- A new domestic water tank to supply the new Red Tail Camp facility and Beano’s Cabin
Forest Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams said improvements will help showcase skiing on national forest lands and touted public collaboration in the review and decision-making process.
The project was designed to enhance and sustain Beaver Creek’s ability to provide a world-class venue for Alpine ski events. All activities are within Beaver Creek’s Forest Service-administered Special Use Permit boundary....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Chamber to set policy on special event funding"
In light of the news that Vail and Beaver Creek have just been approved (see next post) for game-changing and major infrastructure improvements to their mountains, a move very similar to roughly fifteen years or so ago when they blew right past the Aspen Skico with the their "Be Bolder' campaign that grew into their "It pays to be bolder' intiative; it will be interesting to see how long the tourism marketing vendor of ACRA holds out on this news today off the Aspen Daily.
Sounds like the same greed-based tunnel vision of 'Aspen's trough hogs' who privately think more of their bottom lines than they do investments for the future.
Want to bet that Vail Resorts blows right by the Crown Family once again?
With 'flat sales' and numerous other woes that come from finally having the general population stand up to the big power and big money controls, the Aspen Ski Corp just might be in their first ever precarious financial position.
Carolyn Sackariason:
"After allocating $200,000 this year to two upcoming special events, officials from the chamber of commerce believe it’s time to set a policy that will dictate whether funding for future requests meets the organization’s mission of marketing the resort.
“A lot of requests have been coming at us and we’ve been responding to them,” said Julia Theisen, vice president of sales and marketing for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association. “There will be times that we have to say ‘no’ to special event requests.”
She is currently writing a funding policy, that in part will address what the return on investment is for certain events. Theisen said there has been a significant uptick in financial requests from organizers of small events, along with a few big ones.
“We are close to capacity in terms of what we are spending on events,” she said.....:"
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Sounds like the same greed-based tunnel vision of 'Aspen's trough hogs' who privately think more of their bottom lines than they do investments for the future.
Want to bet that Vail Resorts blows right by the Crown Family once again?
With 'flat sales' and numerous other woes that come from finally having the general population stand up to the big power and big money controls, the Aspen Ski Corp just might be in their first ever precarious financial position.
Carolyn Sackariason:
"After allocating $200,000 this year to two upcoming special events, officials from the chamber of commerce believe it’s time to set a policy that will dictate whether funding for future requests meets the organization’s mission of marketing the resort.
“A lot of requests have been coming at us and we’ve been responding to them,” said Julia Theisen, vice president of sales and marketing for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association. “There will be times that we have to say ‘no’ to special event requests.”
She is currently writing a funding policy, that in part will address what the return on investment is for certain events. Theisen said there has been a significant uptick in financial requests from organizers of small events, along with a few big ones.
“We are close to capacity in terms of what we are spending on events,” she said.....:"
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Aspen’s hydro process is criticized before Congress"
There is a plethora of related 'Aspen Hydro Project' stories to choose links from in our archives.
So many choices that back up Matt Rice's testimony before Congress that it's difficult to narrow down to just one.
(sighs...rolls eyes....)
'SandBox Nanny' thinks the Aspen 'Mick Laws' should be rewritten to include:
"Always listen to what the folks have to say, especially Maurice Emmer."
(See related story by clicking here)
Brent Gardner-Smith:
"The city of Aspen’s proposed hydropower plant was used an example of what not to do when a project critic gave testimony last week in front of a House subcommittee in Washington D.C.
The Colorado conservation director for American Rivers, Matt Rice, on May 8 called into question the city of Aspen’s initial approach toward gaining approval for its proposed Castle Creek hydro plant. He testified in person and submitted written testimony to a subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in support of the Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act of 2012 (H.R. 3680). The bill seeks to reduce the regulatory hurdles for certain types of hydropower projects, including “conduit” projects. Conduit projects involve installing small hydropower generators in existing pipelines, canals and tunnels that were not designed or built to generate power....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
So many choices that back up Matt Rice's testimony before Congress that it's difficult to narrow down to just one.
(sighs...rolls eyes....)
'SandBox Nanny' thinks the Aspen 'Mick Laws' should be rewritten to include:
"Always listen to what the folks have to say, especially Maurice Emmer."
(See related story by clicking here)
Brent Gardner-Smith:
"The city of Aspen’s proposed hydropower plant was used an example of what not to do when a project critic gave testimony last week in front of a House subcommittee in Washington D.C.
The Colorado conservation director for American Rivers, Matt Rice, on May 8 called into question the city of Aspen’s initial approach toward gaining approval for its proposed Castle Creek hydro plant. He testified in person and submitted written testimony to a subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in support of the Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act of 2012 (H.R. 3680). The bill seeks to reduce the regulatory hurdles for certain types of hydropower projects, including “conduit” projects. Conduit projects involve installing small hydropower generators in existing pipelines, canals and tunnels that were not designed or built to generate power....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Hot Air Blog "In the American west: An ocean of oil"
Jazz Shaw:
"In case you missed it – and you very well might have, since the media was too busy talking about gay marriage to be bothered – a rather remarkable thing happened in Washington this week. An auditor from the GAO testified before the House Science Subcommittee on Energy and Environment on the subject of energy. But instead of hearing about how horrible things are, she calmly delivered something of a bombshell.
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"In case you missed it – and you very well might have, since the media was too busy talking about gay marriage to be bothered – a rather remarkable thing happened in Washington this week. An auditor from the GAO testified before the House Science Subcommittee on Energy and Environment on the subject of energy. But instead of hearing about how horrible things are, she calmly delivered something of a bombshell.
“The Green River Formation–an assemblage of over 1,000 feet of sedimentary rocks that lie beneath parts of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming–contains the world’s largest deposits of oil shale,”Anu K. Mittal, the GAO’s director of natural resources and environment said in written testimony submitted to the House Science Subcommittee on Energy and Environment.Read those last two sentences again and think about it for a moment. The largest remaining reserves of oil on the planet are not in Saudi Arabia or buried under the frozen steppes of the former Soviet Union. They’re here in the United States. Combined with the massive resources in western Canada, that means that North America is the King of Oil for the future. But what – if anything – will we do about it?...."
“USGS estimates that the Green River Formation contains about 3 trillion barrels of oil, and about half of this may be recoverable, depending on available technology and economic conditions,” Mittal testified.
“The Rand Corporation, a nonprofit research organization, estimates that 30 to 60 percent of the oil shale in the Green River Formation can be recovered,” Mittal told the subcommittee. “At the midpoint of this estimate, almost half of the 3 trillion barrels of oil would be recoverable. This is an amount about equal to the entire world’s proven oil reserves.”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KUNC "Inspector Shortage in Colorado Oil Fields Sparks Concerns"
Kirk Siegler:
"Each day, Jim Precup of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission logs about 400 miles criss-crossing the oil and gas fields of northeast Colorado.
“It’s absolutely staggering,” he says.
Not just the mileage, but also the workload.
Precup has to supervise his agency’s inspectors, but because there are so many wells, he’s also in charge of inspecting 12,000 himself.
“It’s not an easy job, it doesn’t suit everyone,” Precup said one early morning after making a quick coffee run at the Johnson’s Corner truck stop off Interstate 25 in northern Colorado.
From there, it was east into booming Weld County, where he spends most of his days.
Drill rigs, storage tanks, hauler trucks seem to be everywhere once you’re east of I-25 in the county; now home to one of the highest concentrations of oil and gas wells in the country. Drilling operations are sandwiched between homes, schools and stores and in the middle of farm fields.
Precup hops out of his truck to have a look at one of them. Inspectors can show up whenever they want, unannounced, and he climbs a ladder to the top of a large green, well tank. Precup pops the hatch to one of the tanks’ lids and peers inside.
He’s looking for potentially harmful gasses escaping from the well itself, and for spills seeping into the ground that could contaminate water below.
Things here look pretty good.
“All of this stuff is looked at by an inspector at a glance, just like that,” Precup says clapping his hands together. “Five to seven minutes we’d assess this, another 10-15 minutes we’ll be onto our next one....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Each day, Jim Precup of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission logs about 400 miles criss-crossing the oil and gas fields of northeast Colorado.
“It’s absolutely staggering,” he says.
Not just the mileage, but also the workload.
Precup has to supervise his agency’s inspectors, but because there are so many wells, he’s also in charge of inspecting 12,000 himself.
“It’s not an easy job, it doesn’t suit everyone,” Precup said one early morning after making a quick coffee run at the Johnson’s Corner truck stop off Interstate 25 in northern Colorado.
From there, it was east into booming Weld County, where he spends most of his days.
Drill rigs, storage tanks, hauler trucks seem to be everywhere once you’re east of I-25 in the county; now home to one of the highest concentrations of oil and gas wells in the country. Drilling operations are sandwiched between homes, schools and stores and in the middle of farm fields.
Precup hops out of his truck to have a look at one of them. Inspectors can show up whenever they want, unannounced, and he climbs a ladder to the top of a large green, well tank. Precup pops the hatch to one of the tanks’ lids and peers inside.
He’s looking for potentially harmful gasses escaping from the well itself, and for spills seeping into the ground that could contaminate water below.
Things here look pretty good.
“All of this stuff is looked at by an inspector at a glance, just like that,” Precup says clapping his hands together. “Five to seven minutes we’d assess this, another 10-15 minutes we’ll be onto our next one....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
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