Aspen Daily:
"Police allegedly found 45 grams of cocaine, 130 grams of MDMA and 25 grams of psychedelic mushrooms after a local man was arrested Saturday night.
Thomas Simmons, 22, is facing charges of possession and distribution of a controlled substance, tampering with evidence and general criminal attempt. All charges are felonies...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 6, 2012
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Bond for man accused of stealing $1.9M held at $160K"
John Colson:
"GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colorado — Craig Davis, accused of bilking more than $1.9 million from dozens of local investors, was unable to convince a judge to lower his bail from $160,000.
Davis, 61, of Silt, was arrested last December following a year-long investigation by the Glenwood Springs Police Department and the local district attorney's office.
He could spend the rest of his life behind bars if convicted on the 16 counts of theft and securities fraud he is facing in 9th Judicial District Court.
Public defender Jim Conway tried on Thursday to convince Judge Denise Lynch that Davis is not a flight risk, and that his bond should be reduced to some level that “he could reasonably meet....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colorado — Craig Davis, accused of bilking more than $1.9 million from dozens of local investors, was unable to convince a judge to lower his bail from $160,000.
Davis, 61, of Silt, was arrested last December following a year-long investigation by the Glenwood Springs Police Department and the local district attorney's office.
He could spend the rest of his life behind bars if convicted on the 16 counts of theft and securities fraud he is facing in 9th Judicial District Court.
Public defender Jim Conway tried on Thursday to convince Judge Denise Lynch that Davis is not a flight risk, and that his bond should be reduced to some level that “he could reasonably meet....”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "More fines for riding bikes on malls, sidewalks"
Hmmm....let's see.
The City of Aspen goes crazy wild in favor of supporting a bike-share company and backs that support up with a whole lot of seed money.
The bike-share startup comes back with a plan that shows each bike costing $6,000 EACH.
And now, the same city ratchets up the rules, laws and fines for breaking either by seriously stepping up enforcement within the City of Aspen. With 60% of the folks supporting that.
Hmmmm....exactly how does this add up to a good deal for the folks?
Chad Abraham:
"...Open space ranger Brian Long of the city’s parks and recreation department said in the summertime, he and police officers are on “the receiving end of a lot of citizen comments and complaints.” The input concerns cyclists biking in spots where they’re supposed to be walking their bikes.
Long estimated that he received 300 or so comments last summer about wayward bikers (the pedestrian malls fall under the responsibility of the parks department). Pedestrians, some of whom are walking their bikes, often complain about narrow misses with rule-breakers, Long said Friday.
Blair Weyer, police department spokeswoman, said that roughly 60 percent of the 600 respondents to the survey indicated they want moderate to strict enforcement of the current code prohibiting bikes on sidewalks and the malls...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
The City of Aspen goes crazy wild in favor of supporting a bike-share company and backs that support up with a whole lot of seed money.
The bike-share startup comes back with a plan that shows each bike costing $6,000 EACH.
And now, the same city ratchets up the rules, laws and fines for breaking either by seriously stepping up enforcement within the City of Aspen. With 60% of the folks supporting that.
Hmmmm....exactly how does this add up to a good deal for the folks?
Chad Abraham:
"...Open space ranger Brian Long of the city’s parks and recreation department said in the summertime, he and police officers are on “the receiving end of a lot of citizen comments and complaints.” The input concerns cyclists biking in spots where they’re supposed to be walking their bikes.
Long estimated that he received 300 or so comments last summer about wayward bikers (the pedestrian malls fall under the responsibility of the parks department). Pedestrians, some of whom are walking their bikes, often complain about narrow misses with rule-breakers, Long said Friday.
Blair Weyer, police department spokeswoman, said that roughly 60 percent of the 600 respondents to the survey indicated they want moderate to strict enforcement of the current code prohibiting bikes on sidewalks and the malls...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/Your Letters "Clarifying details on Silt Urban Renewal Authority"
(See related story here)
It really isn't "incredibly intense scrutiny", Rick.
It's a systemic problem of a style of yellow journalism that the PI creates, perpetuates and enhances at every opportunity. Accomplishing nothing but harm to area residents and communities.
SandBox doesn't support Silt's URA at state and federal levels. But, we do support Silt developing a working relationship with GarCo. We should be keeping all of the money, including the seed and capital funds, right here at home.
"...The county did not give money to our URA or for economic development, as stated in Wednesday's paper. They set aside money for infrastructure improvements, just as they did in Rifle and Parachute. Those improvements may or may not be associated with a URA project...." (Read more? Click title)
(Richard Aluise, Silt)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
It really isn't "incredibly intense scrutiny", Rick.
It's a systemic problem of a style of yellow journalism that the PI creates, perpetuates and enhances at every opportunity. Accomplishing nothing but harm to area residents and communities.
SandBox doesn't support Silt's URA at state and federal levels. But, we do support Silt developing a working relationship with GarCo. We should be keeping all of the money, including the seed and capital funds, right here at home.
"...The county did not give money to our URA or for economic development, as stated in Wednesday's paper. They set aside money for infrastructure improvements, just as they did in Rifle and Parachute. Those improvements may or may not be associated with a URA project...." (Read more? Click title)
(Richard Aluise, Silt)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Aspen Times/Letters to the Editor "Unfair treatment by Skico"
"Dear Editor:
It is unfair that Lee Mulcahy, after a year, is still banned from all Aspen Skiing Co. properties, including restaurants, lodges, the four mountains that Skico leases from the Forest Service, etc. Lee's crime, for which he was also fired after 14 years of service, was to protest low, unfair wages for beginning employees (about $69 per day). A lift ticket for a day is $108. He also brought up unionization.
Just like Occupy Wall Street protesters, Lee had to be crushed by a greedy corporation with the cooperation of a compliant legal system. It is clear that government works to protect corporations. Meanwhile Aspen builds employee housing, at taxpayer expense, to subsidize Skico so it can continue to pay low wages.
It is time that Skico officials lifted the ban on Mulcahy so he can ski Aspen's mountains and socialize with his friends on Skico properties. He is a great person who had the courage to speak out when he saw injustice.
(Cathleen Krahe, Missouri Heights)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
It is unfair that Lee Mulcahy, after a year, is still banned from all Aspen Skiing Co. properties, including restaurants, lodges, the four mountains that Skico leases from the Forest Service, etc. Lee's crime, for which he was also fired after 14 years of service, was to protest low, unfair wages for beginning employees (about $69 per day). A lift ticket for a day is $108. He also brought up unionization.
Just like Occupy Wall Street protesters, Lee had to be crushed by a greedy corporation with the cooperation of a compliant legal system. It is clear that government works to protect corporations. Meanwhile Aspen builds employee housing, at taxpayer expense, to subsidize Skico so it can continue to pay low wages.
It is time that Skico officials lifted the ban on Mulcahy so he can ski Aspen's mountains and socialize with his friends on Skico properties. He is a great person who had the courage to speak out when he saw injustice.
(Cathleen Krahe, Missouri Heights)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning Photo: February (2011)"
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Early February is truly the heart of winter, at least here in the high country. Down in the lowlands, they may be talking about groundhogs and shadows, and in more temperate climes, it’s true, you may start to see the first hints of impending change. But at 9,000 or 10,000 feet, or in northern latitudes, this is the time of year when you really start to feel that the ground is completely still and at rest in preparation for something yet unknown. It’s a little different this year. Bare earth is visible in more than a few places, and with temperatures averaging at least 3 to 4 degrees above average, the ground isn’t even frozen solid. So in case you’ve forgotten, here’s what winter can (and should) look like in series of images from early February, 2011."
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Early February is truly the heart of winter, at least here in the high country. Down in the lowlands, they may be talking about groundhogs and shadows, and in more temperate climes, it’s true, you may start to see the first hints of impending change. But at 9,000 or 10,000 feet, or in northern latitudes, this is the time of year when you really start to feel that the ground is completely still and at rest in preparation for something yet unknown. It’s a little different this year. Bare earth is visible in more than a few places, and with temperatures averaging at least 3 to 4 degrees above average, the ground isn’t even frozen solid. So in case you’ve forgotten, here’s what winter can (and should) look like in series of images from early February, 2011."
February 5, 2012
SandBox Comments: Town Hall "How Did Christian Churches Survive 2,000 Years without Obama Mandates to Help Them?"
John Ransom:
"Robert1260 wrote: Bush had the worst jobs growth in US history and right wing talkers can not change that fact. It's historically carved in stone. Obama has produced more jobs in 3 years during the worst economy since the 1930's than Bush produced in a good economy (for his first 7 years in office that is...Bush's last year was a real doozy). Obama inherited a loss of 9 million jobs, loss of 37 Trillion in American wealth and 9 Trillion in debt practically overnight. Inherited from a so called conservative president. More facts carved in stone that Republicans can't simply brush aside by right wing liars like Ransom.- in response to New BS BLS Report Shows Obama Costs US $20 Trillion"
"Dear Comrade 1260,
Actually, Obama’s record is worse, net-on-net...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Robert1260 wrote: Bush had the worst jobs growth in US history and right wing talkers can not change that fact. It's historically carved in stone. Obama has produced more jobs in 3 years during the worst economy since the 1930's than Bush produced in a good economy (for his first 7 years in office that is...Bush's last year was a real doozy). Obama inherited a loss of 9 million jobs, loss of 37 Trillion in American wealth and 9 Trillion in debt practically overnight. Inherited from a so called conservative president. More facts carved in stone that Republicans can't simply brush aside by right wing liars like Ransom.- in response to New BS BLS Report Shows Obama Costs US $20 Trillion"
"Dear Comrade 1260,
Actually, Obama’s record is worse, net-on-net...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Lubbock Online/Mr. Conservative "The Real Unemployment Rate is 19%"
"Thanks to how the data is fudged in Washington, the unemployment rate is touted to now be down to 8.3%. Officially only 12.7 million are now unemployed. As I have predicted, Obama will do anything possible to get the unemployment rate to 8.0% or below by the time of the General Election on Tuesday 06 November.
President Obama has been celebrating the 243,000 jobs created in January. However, no mention has been made by Obama or the White House that 1.2 million people gave up looking for work in January.
These 1.2 million people were removed from the group of persons who are reported to be unemployed, dropping the pretend unemployment number to 8.3%.
There has also been no mention that while Obama is bragging that he added 3.7 million new jobs, the reality of the situation is that 4.4 million jobs have simply disappeared from the United States of America since Obama became President.
A total of 4.7 million people have stopped looking for work since the Inauguration of President Obama.
Added to the 12.7 million, the total of unemployed is 17.4 million without work or about 11%...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
President Obama has been celebrating the 243,000 jobs created in January. However, no mention has been made by Obama or the White House that 1.2 million people gave up looking for work in January.
These 1.2 million people were removed from the group of persons who are reported to be unemployed, dropping the pretend unemployment number to 8.3%.
There has also been no mention that while Obama is bragging that he added 3.7 million new jobs, the reality of the situation is that 4.4 million jobs have simply disappeared from the United States of America since Obama became President.
A total of 4.7 million people have stopped looking for work since the Inauguration of President Obama.
Added to the 12.7 million, the total of unemployed is 17.4 million without work or about 11%...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Working Class Conservative/Mike Madden "How to Whack 1.2M Jobs"
Similar to 'Whack-A-Mole', a game played by politicians and media every day...
Mike Madden:
"You are running for election. For the entire time you were in the position you currently hold the jobs market never got any better. You kept claiming to have created jobs but the damn unemployment rate kept holding . Then slowly at a rate that would take 15 years to return the nation to 5% unemployment the jobs started coming back at an agonizingly slow rate. Quick, you have 10 months to convince everyone you are a good leader and deserve 4 more years, what do you do?
If you are the Obama Administration you have the Bureau of labor and Statistics adjust the way unemployment is gauged. You do it by blaming 2010 Census data. How? Read the following...."
(Read the following? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Mike Madden:
"You are running for election. For the entire time you were in the position you currently hold the jobs market never got any better. You kept claiming to have created jobs but the damn unemployment rate kept holding . Then slowly at a rate that would take 15 years to return the nation to 5% unemployment the jobs started coming back at an agonizingly slow rate. Quick, you have 10 months to convince everyone you are a good leader and deserve 4 more years, what do you do?
If you are the Obama Administration you have the Bureau of labor and Statistics adjust the way unemployment is gauged. You do it by blaming 2010 Census data. How? Read the following...."
(Read the following? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Right Scoop "Observations from the Sheriff’s stoop"
lol.
'SandBox Nanny' puts this one in the justice and crime section of today's posts. Why, you ask?
Because she is reminded of the classic line mothers use the world over:
'Wait until your father gets home.'
BTW, 'kids'. Anybody noticing how your comments that you continue to insist on sending to 'the mailbox' aren't getting posted up? Could it be because 'SandBox Nanny' meant what she said a month or so ago? That she just no longer has the time to daily pull everything out from that 'secretly hidden mailbox located in the secure server that's hidden somewhere northwest of DeBeque?" And that you needed to start posting your comments directly? Hmmmm....
Just wait until your father gets home.
'KenInMontana' :
"On the subject of posting, it is a Privilege not a Right. I am sure most here have seen posters whine how we as moderators are violating their 1st Amendment Rights, in response I will quote a favorite artist of mine, “Excuse me? First Amendment? Son, the first amendment protects you from the government, not from me. You can say whatever you want too out there, but if you come within reach of me, I’ll exercise my right to give you a good ol’ country @$$ whoopin’ is what I’ll do”. Yes, contrary to popular belief, we do have a sense of humor..." (Be sure to click the title and read all of this wonderful post!)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
'SandBox Nanny' puts this one in the justice and crime section of today's posts. Why, you ask?
Because she is reminded of the classic line mothers use the world over:
'Wait until your father gets home.'
BTW, 'kids'. Anybody noticing how your comments that you continue to insist on sending to 'the mailbox' aren't getting posted up? Could it be because 'SandBox Nanny' meant what she said a month or so ago? That she just no longer has the time to daily pull everything out from that 'secretly hidden mailbox located in the secure server that's hidden somewhere northwest of DeBeque?" And that you needed to start posting your comments directly? Hmmmm....
Just wait until your father gets home.
'KenInMontana' :
"On the subject of posting, it is a Privilege not a Right. I am sure most here have seen posters whine how we as moderators are violating their 1st Amendment Rights, in response I will quote a favorite artist of mine, “Excuse me? First Amendment? Son, the first amendment protects you from the government, not from me. You can say whatever you want too out there, but if you come within reach of me, I’ll exercise my right to give you a good ol’ country @$$ whoopin’ is what I’ll do”. Yes, contrary to popular belief, we do have a sense of humor..." (Be sure to click the title and read all of this wonderful post!)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: CNS News "Former DEA Chief: Hezbollah Eyeing Southwest Border, ‘Hell to Pay in the Not Too Distant Future’ "
(See related story here)
Penny Starr:
"CNSNews.com) – The Iranian-supported Shi’ite terrorist group Hezbollah has spread its influence all the way to the U.S. border with Mexico, a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on Iran’s influence in the Western Hemisphere heard on Thursday.
Michael Braun, a former chief of operations at the Drug Enforcement Agency, said Hezbollah had developed relationships with the powerful Mexican drug cartels to “move their agenda forward.” He cited a plot, recently uncovered by the DEA, involving an Iranian operative in Mexico allegedly planning to assassinate the Saudi ambassador in Washington, D.C.
“Hezbollah are absolute masters at forming close relationships with existing organized crime groups around the world that helps them facilitate what they need to do to move their agendas forward,” Braun told CNSNews.com following the hearing. “And if anyone thinks for a moment that they don’t have their eye on the southwest border and all of our country, then they couldn’t be more wrong.”
In his prepared remarks Braun, who also served as interim director of the Department of Justice’s Drug Intelligence Fusion Center, said Hezbollah and other terrorist groups understand that the Mexican cartels are already operating successfully inside the United States.
“If anyone thinks for one moment that these terrorist organizations do not understand that the Mexican drug trafficking cartels now dominate drug trafficking in our country – reportedly in more than 250 cities – than they are very stupid or very naive,” he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Penny Starr:
"CNSNews.com) – The Iranian-supported Shi’ite terrorist group Hezbollah has spread its influence all the way to the U.S. border with Mexico, a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on Iran’s influence in the Western Hemisphere heard on Thursday.
Michael Braun, a former chief of operations at the Drug Enforcement Agency, said Hezbollah had developed relationships with the powerful Mexican drug cartels to “move their agenda forward.” He cited a plot, recently uncovered by the DEA, involving an Iranian operative in Mexico allegedly planning to assassinate the Saudi ambassador in Washington, D.C.
“Hezbollah are absolute masters at forming close relationships with existing organized crime groups around the world that helps them facilitate what they need to do to move their agendas forward,” Braun told CNSNews.com following the hearing. “And if anyone thinks for a moment that they don’t have their eye on the southwest border and all of our country, then they couldn’t be more wrong.”
In his prepared remarks Braun, who also served as interim director of the Department of Justice’s Drug Intelligence Fusion Center, said Hezbollah and other terrorist groups understand that the Mexican cartels are already operating successfully inside the United States.
“If anyone thinks for one moment that these terrorist organizations do not understand that the Mexican drug trafficking cartels now dominate drug trafficking in our country – reportedly in more than 250 cities – than they are very stupid or very naive,” he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Valley teen: Marijuana is ‘widely available'"
Any one else noticing all the new reporter and outside contributors over on the Glenwood Springs Post Independent?
So far, they're terrific! Over the past few weeks they've been rolling out with strong reporting, fresh content and features. If the PI isn't careful, they just might become more than the filler for packing boxes and the first fast scan of the day before one reaches for the Times and the Daily.
'SandBox Nanny' dedicates her roundup of this story to the City of Glenwood Springs attorney Jan Shute, Glenwood Springs City Councilman Leo McKinney and local Mary Rippy.
McKinney for what can only be described, if you watch all he has ever said on MMJ, as his rabid pushing and bullying to bring and keep medical marijuana businesses and operations alive in Glenwood Springs.
Shute for her utter and complete failure to meet, what should be her first and foremost concern in all she does, the security and protection from legal liability of the citizenry. After spending literally a few years working on drafting law, Shute's work does not even cover the protection of city employees handling MMJ issues let alone protect the folks from liability.
And finally, to local Mary Rippy. For not only being right. But for standing up.
Rebecca Jones:
Editor's note: The following article is part of a collaborative effort by HealthPolicySolutions.org, Education News Colorado and I-News Network that focuses on medical marijuana dispensaries and the use of marijuana in schools. The article below addresses the impact in the Roaring Fork Valley. For complete coverage, visit http://www.healthpolicysolutions.org/.
"...CARBONDALE, Colorado — If a friend hadn't turned him over to cops in November, 15-year-old Charles would most likely still be dealing medical marijuana.
As it is, the Roaring Fork High School sophomore has just completed a stint in juvenile detention, is back in school and is eager to get his life back on track. He's hoping to join the military after high school, and he knows a drug conviction could scuttle those plans.
“...But the DA worked out a deal where as long as I don't get in trouble for the next six to eight months, I'll be fine,” he said. “I'll be allowed to go in the military.”
Much has changed for the one-time honor student, who agreed to be interviewed on the condition that his last name is not used.
A year ago, he'd never smoked pot. But then came the night of the party. Someone offered him a joint and, when he didn't know what to do with it, showed him. “I took a hit,” he said. “I felt the high. I wasn't in love with the feeling. But I liked it.”
A week later, the older brother of a friend made Charles an offer. “He told me ‘Hey, if you're willing to sell for me, I'll give you money,'” Charles said. “I go ‘All right.' So he'd go down to the dispensary once or twice a week and get his marijuana, then give it to me and I would distribute it.”
The brother, who is in his 40s, had sold marijuana for decades, he said, but began selling medical marijuana exclusively after obtaining a state-issued registry card for back pain.
“They're really easy to get them around here,” Charles said of the cards. “You can get them for headaches....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
So far, they're terrific! Over the past few weeks they've been rolling out with strong reporting, fresh content and features. If the PI isn't careful, they just might become more than the filler for packing boxes and the first fast scan of the day before one reaches for the Times and the Daily.
'SandBox Nanny' dedicates her roundup of this story to the City of Glenwood Springs attorney Jan Shute, Glenwood Springs City Councilman Leo McKinney and local Mary Rippy.
McKinney for what can only be described, if you watch all he has ever said on MMJ, as his rabid pushing and bullying to bring and keep medical marijuana businesses and operations alive in Glenwood Springs.
Shute for her utter and complete failure to meet, what should be her first and foremost concern in all she does, the security and protection from legal liability of the citizenry. After spending literally a few years working on drafting law, Shute's work does not even cover the protection of city employees handling MMJ issues let alone protect the folks from liability.
And finally, to local Mary Rippy. For not only being right. But for standing up.
Rebecca Jones:
Editor's note: The following article is part of a collaborative effort by HealthPolicySolutions.org, Education News Colorado and I-News Network that focuses on medical marijuana dispensaries and the use of marijuana in schools. The article below addresses the impact in the Roaring Fork Valley. For complete coverage, visit http://www.healthpolicysolutions.org/.
"...CARBONDALE, Colorado — If a friend hadn't turned him over to cops in November, 15-year-old Charles would most likely still be dealing medical marijuana.
As it is, the Roaring Fork High School sophomore has just completed a stint in juvenile detention, is back in school and is eager to get his life back on track. He's hoping to join the military after high school, and he knows a drug conviction could scuttle those plans.
“...But the DA worked out a deal where as long as I don't get in trouble for the next six to eight months, I'll be fine,” he said. “I'll be allowed to go in the military.”
Much has changed for the one-time honor student, who agreed to be interviewed on the condition that his last name is not used.
A year ago, he'd never smoked pot. But then came the night of the party. Someone offered him a joint and, when he didn't know what to do with it, showed him. “I took a hit,” he said. “I felt the high. I wasn't in love with the feeling. But I liked it.”
A week later, the older brother of a friend made Charles an offer. “He told me ‘Hey, if you're willing to sell for me, I'll give you money,'” Charles said. “I go ‘All right.' So he'd go down to the dispensary once or twice a week and get his marijuana, then give it to me and I would distribute it.”
The brother, who is in his 40s, had sold marijuana for decades, he said, but began selling medical marijuana exclusively after obtaining a state-issued registry card for back pain.
“They're really easy to get them around here,” Charles said of the cards. “You can get them for headaches....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summit Daily News "Lichens: Nature's odd couple"
SandBox has been wondering where Dr. Joanne Stolen has been! Always one of the best references for top-notch reporting and op-ed pieces on the environment; she's one of our fav's.
Dr. Joanne Stolen:
"Did the lichen kill the trees, or do they prefer dead or dying trees? Because they do seem to prefer trees or shrubs already beginning to die, the lichen is often unjustly blamed for adversely affecting the tree. In actuality, many lichens grow rapidly when exposed to full sunlight, and that is why they are a common occurrence on dead or dying trees. Their position on the trees gives them a secure location to anchor as well as access to sunlight in dark forests. When the tree whose canopy is failing eventually dies, the lichen's growth greatly increases because of the additional sunlight. This is why many dead or dying trees are often covered with lichens. Dying trees also often release a kind of sugar or sap, a lure for lichen — but lichens do not consume any part of the plant, nor do they poison it..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Dr. Joanne Stolen:
"Did the lichen kill the trees, or do they prefer dead or dying trees? Because they do seem to prefer trees or shrubs already beginning to die, the lichen is often unjustly blamed for adversely affecting the tree. In actuality, many lichens grow rapidly when exposed to full sunlight, and that is why they are a common occurrence on dead or dying trees. Their position on the trees gives them a secure location to anchor as well as access to sunlight in dark forests. When the tree whose canopy is failing eventually dies, the lichen's growth greatly increases because of the additional sunlight. This is why many dead or dying trees are often covered with lichens. Dying trees also often release a kind of sugar or sap, a lure for lichen — but lichens do not consume any part of the plant, nor do they poison it..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBox Comments: Summitt County Citizens Voice "Morning photo: Florida revisited"
All credit: Bob Berwyn
February 4, 2012
SandBox Comments: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Ankle monitor didn’t stop Mesa killer"
Paul Shockley:
".....The head of Mesa County Criminal Justice Services said Friday he didn’t yet know why a county-issued ankle monitor failed to warn anybody prior to the murder of a Mesa woman.
Dennis Berry, director of the county’s Criminal Justice Services, said his staff received no ankle-monitor alert when 47-year-old Robert Allen Matile apparently went on a property he was restrained from at 10389 48 Road. There, he took aim with a shotgun at his estranged girlfriend, 52-year-old LaVon Hoffman.
“Certainly, this is a very tragic situation, and we’re going to do whatever it takes to find out what happened in this case,” Berry said....
.....The pace of court-ordered GPS monitoring is increasing in Mesa County. According to Criminal Justice Services data, some 26 people were wearing monitors as of Friday, under the supervision of Mesa County Pretrial Services. In 2011, 55 people were supervised. The totals do not include those serving sentences, including sex offenders, on ankle monitors supervised by Mesa County and other entities.
Matile’s case is the second high-profile failure in recent months for GPS tracking by Mesa County Pretrial Services.
Free on bond, Dartanin Mitchell, 33, managed to remove his monitor undetected before embarking on an alleged crime spree that included a burglary and auto theft and fleeing the state...."
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
".....The head of Mesa County Criminal Justice Services said Friday he didn’t yet know why a county-issued ankle monitor failed to warn anybody prior to the murder of a Mesa woman.
Dennis Berry, director of the county’s Criminal Justice Services, said his staff received no ankle-monitor alert when 47-year-old Robert Allen Matile apparently went on a property he was restrained from at 10389 48 Road. There, he took aim with a shotgun at his estranged girlfriend, 52-year-old LaVon Hoffman.
“Certainly, this is a very tragic situation, and we’re going to do whatever it takes to find out what happened in this case,” Berry said....
.....The pace of court-ordered GPS monitoring is increasing in Mesa County. According to Criminal Justice Services data, some 26 people were wearing monitors as of Friday, under the supervision of Mesa County Pretrial Services. In 2011, 55 people were supervised. The totals do not include those serving sentences, including sex offenders, on ankle monitors supervised by Mesa County and other entities.
Matile’s case is the second high-profile failure in recent months for GPS tracking by Mesa County Pretrial Services.
Free on bond, Dartanin Mitchell, 33, managed to remove his monitor undetected before embarking on an alleged crime spree that included a burglary and auto theft and fleeing the state...."
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
SandBox Comments: Aspen Daily News "Two Carbondale residents arrested for felony forgery"
via Aspen Daily:
"....Two Carbondale men are charged with felony forgery after they were arrested this week for allegedly selling fraudulent employment documents.
Sergio Edwin Garcia Carranza, 41, and Victor Daniel Vazquez Cortes, 30, also face a charge of possession of forged instruments and are jailed under immigration holds, according to a Eagle County Sheriff’s Office press release.
Investigators on Wednesday received a tip that a group of people were selling fake employment documents. An undercover sheriff’s office detective purchased a fake Social Security card and a permanent resident alien card, the press release says.
That alleged sale led to both Garcia Carranza’s arrest and to an alleged document-manufacturing location in Carbondale.
“With the assistance of the Carbondale Police Department ... detectives seized the $2,000 manufacturing equipment setup (including a laptop computer, printer and laminator) and fake cards and cash from sales,” the press release says....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
"....Two Carbondale men are charged with felony forgery after they were arrested this week for allegedly selling fraudulent employment documents.
Sergio Edwin Garcia Carranza, 41, and Victor Daniel Vazquez Cortes, 30, also face a charge of possession of forged instruments and are jailed under immigration holds, according to a Eagle County Sheriff’s Office press release.
Investigators on Wednesday received a tip that a group of people were selling fake employment documents. An undercover sheriff’s office detective purchased a fake Social Security card and a permanent resident alien card, the press release says.
That alleged sale led to both Garcia Carranza’s arrest and to an alleged document-manufacturing location in Carbondale.
“With the assistance of the Carbondale Police Department ... detectives seized the $2,000 manufacturing equipment setup (including a laptop computer, printer and laminator) and fake cards and cash from sales,” the press release says....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
SandBox Comments: Glass Ballot Box "Court Orders SOS Gessler to Hear HAVA Complaint--Saguache County"
Congratulations to Marilyn Marks on still yet another major legal victory! We wonder if she realizes how many voters out here are grateful for her efforts?
Why isn't there a balance in coverage on her activism?
Is it personality? Local gossip would have you think so.
Is it social status? Local gossip would have you think so.
Is it strength on multiple levels, courage and the kind of leadership values that are misunderstood simply because they are fairly rare? It's too bad that there isn't any equally publicised gossip out there to help you think so.
Many times, when there is no other choice, the type of person who has those kinds of strength, courage and leadership abilities is seen in the public eye by what they had to be in order to get the job done, not by what they truly are as a person.
As for the path of Marilyn Marks choosing, we hope she is aware of how appreciated her path is.
We'll continue to 'spread a little 'gossip' of the 'other kind' to help her along.
So, when is this accountability by Colorado Secretary of State Scott Gessler (R) going to be seen by Colorado voters?
Let's make it very soon.
Like maybe....before Colorado's role as one of the key swing states in the most important election of our time.
As a fellow conservative, one would think Gessler would push aside that GOP establishment he's trying to stay rubbing elbows with and simply obey the court. Thank you, again. To Aspen resident Marilyn Marks as she successfully continues to help him see that he needs to.
"Original Order
Addendum Issued February 2, 2012
Aspen, CO, February 3, 2012 — Today the Colorado District Court for the City and County of Denver clarified that the court’s order of October 24, 2011 requires Secretary of State Scott Gessler to hold a public hearing to investigate formal complaints filed under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) related to voting system irregularities in Saguache County’s November 2010 election.
In April 2011 Aspen citizen Marilyn Marks filed a comprehensive formal complaint with Secretary of State Gessler in accordance with the provision of state law and HAVA, which permits “any person” who believes violations of Title III of HAVA have occurred to file such a complaint. Despite the numerous irregularities documented by Ms. Marks, including voting system computer logs that show unexplained out-of-sequence time stamps of computer operations during this contentious election, Secretary Gessler refused to investigate the evidence and instead dismissed Ms. Marks’s complaint for lack of standing. Marks sued Gessler to appeal the dismissal of her complaint.
The Secretary based his dismissal of Marks’s complaint on the theory that any complainant has to prove that she has been personally aggrieved by or has personally witnessed the irregularities in question, regardless of the persuasiveness of the evidence presented on its own. Marks commented, “The court disagreed with Secretary Gessler and upheld the public policy in federal law that promotes transparency in the operation of voting systems, where problems should be exposed and investigated, not concealed through officials’ refusal to investigate documented irregularities.”
Marks’ attorney, Robert A. McGuire, commented, “The Court affirmed that both state and federal law allow any person who believes a violation of HAVA has occurred to file a complaint. This decision vindicates the right of every citizen to ensure that our elections are conducted lawfully. Voting is the fundamental mechanism that makes a functioning democracy possible, and all of us have an interest in preserving the integrity of the voting process. Our democracy belongs to the people, not to government and not to corporate voting system providers. Today’s decision will help keep it that way.”
Colorado Ethics Watch filed an amicus curiae brief supporting the standing of “any person” to file a HAVA complaint. They argued, “Restricting the class of persons who may file complaints to those who witnessed or are aggrieved may allow violations to go unaddressed because those who could file a complaint lack the wherewithal to do so or are intimidated into silence.” Marks stated that she felt the clear compelling arguments made by Luis Toro, attorney and director for Colorado Ethics Watch were quite helpful in reinforcing the public policy issue at stake.
The Denver court also found that federal and state law conflict on citizen’s ability to file a complaint, which will require that Secretary Gessler propose remedial legislation to the General Assembly to strengthen Colorado law to bring it into alignment with federal law that ensures the rights of all citizens to have voting system irregularities investigated and remedied.
The date for the public hearing has not been set. It is expected that voters from Saguache County as well as voting quality experts will testify at the hearing regarding problems with the ES&S voting system used in Saguache County in 2010. The ES&S system’s operation has been one of the issues prominent in the controversial 2010 Saguache County election. Marks said, “On January 24, 2012, Saguache County Clerk Myers was recalled primarily because of her role in such irregularities. Despite her recall, the voting system irregularities should be investigated for the important information that such investigation may provide to other jurisdictions that use this equipment and/or improper practices.”
For additional information contact:
Marilyn Marks
Aspen, CO
Marilyn@AspenOffice.com
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
Why isn't there a balance in coverage on her activism?
Is it personality? Local gossip would have you think so.
Is it social status? Local gossip would have you think so.
Is it strength on multiple levels, courage and the kind of leadership values that are misunderstood simply because they are fairly rare? It's too bad that there isn't any equally publicised gossip out there to help you think so.
Many times, when there is no other choice, the type of person who has those kinds of strength, courage and leadership abilities is seen in the public eye by what they had to be in order to get the job done, not by what they truly are as a person.
As for the path of Marilyn Marks choosing, we hope she is aware of how appreciated her path is.
We'll continue to 'spread a little 'gossip' of the 'other kind' to help her along.
So, when is this accountability by Colorado Secretary of State Scott Gessler (R) going to be seen by Colorado voters?
Let's make it very soon.
Like maybe....before Colorado's role as one of the key swing states in the most important election of our time.
As a fellow conservative, one would think Gessler would push aside that GOP establishment he's trying to stay rubbing elbows with and simply obey the court. Thank you, again. To Aspen resident Marilyn Marks as she successfully continues to help him see that he needs to.
"Original Order
Addendum Issued February 2, 2012
For Immediate Release
Secretary of State Must Hear Voting Complaints—
Denver Court Ruling
Aspen, CO, February 3, 2012 — Today the Colorado District Court for the City and County of Denver clarified that the court’s order of October 24, 2011 requires Secretary of State Scott Gessler to hold a public hearing to investigate formal complaints filed under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) related to voting system irregularities in Saguache County’s November 2010 election.
In April 2011 Aspen citizen Marilyn Marks filed a comprehensive formal complaint with Secretary of State Gessler in accordance with the provision of state law and HAVA, which permits “any person” who believes violations of Title III of HAVA have occurred to file such a complaint. Despite the numerous irregularities documented by Ms. Marks, including voting system computer logs that show unexplained out-of-sequence time stamps of computer operations during this contentious election, Secretary Gessler refused to investigate the evidence and instead dismissed Ms. Marks’s complaint for lack of standing. Marks sued Gessler to appeal the dismissal of her complaint.
The Secretary based his dismissal of Marks’s complaint on the theory that any complainant has to prove that she has been personally aggrieved by or has personally witnessed the irregularities in question, regardless of the persuasiveness of the evidence presented on its own. Marks commented, “The court disagreed with Secretary Gessler and upheld the public policy in federal law that promotes transparency in the operation of voting systems, where problems should be exposed and investigated, not concealed through officials’ refusal to investigate documented irregularities.”
Marks’ attorney, Robert A. McGuire, commented, “The Court affirmed that both state and federal law allow any person who believes a violation of HAVA has occurred to file a complaint. This decision vindicates the right of every citizen to ensure that our elections are conducted lawfully. Voting is the fundamental mechanism that makes a functioning democracy possible, and all of us have an interest in preserving the integrity of the voting process. Our democracy belongs to the people, not to government and not to corporate voting system providers. Today’s decision will help keep it that way.”
Colorado Ethics Watch filed an amicus curiae brief supporting the standing of “any person” to file a HAVA complaint. They argued, “Restricting the class of persons who may file complaints to those who witnessed or are aggrieved may allow violations to go unaddressed because those who could file a complaint lack the wherewithal to do so or are intimidated into silence.” Marks stated that she felt the clear compelling arguments made by Luis Toro, attorney and director for Colorado Ethics Watch were quite helpful in reinforcing the public policy issue at stake.
The Denver court also found that federal and state law conflict on citizen’s ability to file a complaint, which will require that Secretary Gessler propose remedial legislation to the General Assembly to strengthen Colorado law to bring it into alignment with federal law that ensures the rights of all citizens to have voting system irregularities investigated and remedied.
The date for the public hearing has not been set. It is expected that voters from Saguache County as well as voting quality experts will testify at the hearing regarding problems with the ES&S voting system used in Saguache County in 2010. The ES&S system’s operation has been one of the issues prominent in the controversial 2010 Saguache County election. Marks said, “On January 24, 2012, Saguache County Clerk Myers was recalled primarily because of her role in such irregularities. Despite her recall, the voting system irregularities should be investigated for the important information that such investigation may provide to other jurisdictions that use this equipment and/or improper practices.”
For additional information contact:
Marilyn Marks
Aspen, CO
Marilyn@AspenOffice.com
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/John Colson "Company criticized for waiting to inform Silt Mesa residents"
Here they are again. The group known as "Some Silt Mesa residents".
What's the whine about this time?
That they still don't have a hand-holding babysitter to personally inform them when public meetings are held on issues of interest to them.
It's either the fault of the GarCo BOCC, the oil and gas companies or the dereliction of duty by Silt Mayor Dave Moore. Always the same old whine that someone else should be responsible for coordinating their activism schedules.
Here's a bold, cutting edge concept!! Give it some thought!
Ask your local newspaper and investigative reporter John Colson to start covering all the news and then print details of schedules and meetings in the local newspaper.
(whisper...whisper...did he even try to think before he wrote a title like that one??...isn't that what the press does is inform??....whisper...whisper...)
A special thank you goes out to Antero Resources. For once again having the patience of Job and for all you do to try to meet all community needs.
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
What's the whine about this time?
That they still don't have a hand-holding babysitter to personally inform them when public meetings are held on issues of interest to them.
It's either the fault of the GarCo BOCC, the oil and gas companies or the dereliction of duty by Silt Mayor Dave Moore. Always the same old whine that someone else should be responsible for coordinating their activism schedules.
Here's a bold, cutting edge concept!! Give it some thought!
Ask your local newspaper and investigative reporter John Colson to start covering all the news and then print details of schedules and meetings in the local newspaper.
(whisper...whisper...did he even try to think before he wrote a title like that one??...isn't that what the press does is inform??....whisper...whisper...)
A special thank you goes out to Antero Resources. For once again having the patience of Job and for all you do to try to meet all community needs.
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
SandBox Comments: Aspen Times/Rick Carroll "Mulcahy lawsuit claims he's banned from Art Museum"
Update to this story on Feb 5, 2012:
Here's a copy of the Aspen Art Museum letter that 'SandBox Nanny' just received in her mailbox. Lee's out skiing and has asked if we would post this copy up for him:
"aspenartmuseum
P 1970. 925.8050
F 1970.925.8054
590 North Mill Street. Aspen. Colorado 81611
aspenartmuseum.org
December 22, 2011
Mr. Lee Mulcahy
611 Pass Go
Aspen, CO 81611
VIA REGISTERED
MAlL
Dear Mr. Mulcahy,
Please accept this letter as formal and final notice that you are no longer
Museum property or at Aspen Art museum functions. This notice is due
to the fact that you have exhibited erratic, disrespectful, and threatening
behavior toward e avi r toward our patrons, staff and physical property.
AAM property includes, but is not limited to, our facility at 590 North Mill Street , as
well as the site of the new AAM at the corner of Spring and Hyman Streets.
AAM functions include, but are not limited to: Freestyle, ArtCrush, lectures, programs,
membership events, and workshops, regardless of where they are held.
Should we find you in violation of this request, we will notify the proper authorities and
prosecute you for trespassing.
Should you have any questions please contact the Museum's legal counsel Kent Christopher
Veio at (303) 534-3390.
Sincerely,
Paul Schorr
Co-President
John Phelan
Co-President
cc: Richard Pryor, Chief of Police, Aspen Police Department
Jo DiSalvo, Sheriff, Pitkin County
Arnold Mordikin, Chief Deputy District Attorney, Aspen
******
Original post of Feb. 4, 2012:
(See one of the related stories that's out there in the blogosphere here)
(whisper...whisper...whisper...lol....wonder how long it will take Rick Carroll to realize he's being punked by not looking deep enough into Mulcahy's details before he writes a flamer...whisper...whisper.....oh, what tangled webs are woven when one is a reporter who just keeps waving red flags in front of really ticked off consumers...whisper...whisper...whisper....here's to the little guy...let freedom ring....whisper...whisper...whisper....)
'SandBox Nanny' to Lee Mulcahy:
"Now, Lee. avatars in commentary everywhere know how much fun you're having with the strategy you have chosen to handle the Art Museum case. But don't you think it's time to grant an interview to the press and reveal the formal ban letter you received from the museum? You know, that one that everybody but the press has seen that specifically states you cannot attend their functions, etc. etc. yet they took your $600 bucks plus as a member at the same time?
Seriously. It probably won't help Rick out at all but Chad Abraham over on the Aspen Daily is a nice guy and his coverage of the local area crime and justice beat is the best around. Even Chad is sounding a little confused today: "Lawsuit: Man's ban from future museum site unconstitutional"
'Nanny' is asking you to think about this. The Kaplan libel suit is the seriously concerning to Skico and the community at large suit and the Aspen Art Museum is also serious because they are way off base and out of line with any measure of common sense. But to keep these reporters running around in circles is is a little bit harsh, wouldn't you say?
For what it's worth, here's a suggestion.
Call a press phone conference and let them have at you. Ask whatever they want. One time shot only. Maybe invite Richie Cohen and a few others. Or, if you have your public stocks built yet and are ready to place yourself in them on the Hyman Mall; hold the press conference right before somebody like Richie locks your head down.
Just try to not toy with them for too long, OK? It's important to always at least try to place nice in the SandBox."
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
Here's a copy of the Aspen Art Museum letter that 'SandBox Nanny' just received in her mailbox. Lee's out skiing and has asked if we would post this copy up for him:
"aspenartmuseum
P 1970. 925.8050
F 1970.925.8054
590 North Mill Street. Aspen. Colorado 81611
aspenartmuseum.org
December 22, 2011
Mr. Lee Mulcahy
611 Pass Go
Aspen, CO 81611
VIA REGISTERED
MAlL
Dear Mr. Mulcahy,
Please accept this letter as formal and final notice that you are no longer
Museum property or at Aspen Art museum functions. This notice is due
to the fact that you have exhibited erratic, disrespectful, and threatening
behavior toward e avi r toward our patrons, staff and physical property.
AAM property includes, but is not limited to, our facility at 590 North Mill Street , as
well as the site of the new AAM at the corner of Spring and Hyman Streets.
AAM functions include, but are not limited to: Freestyle, ArtCrush, lectures, programs,
membership events, and workshops, regardless of where they are held.
Should we find you in violation of this request, we will notify the proper authorities and
prosecute you for trespassing.
Should you have any questions please contact the Museum's legal counsel Kent Christopher
Veio at (303) 534-3390.
Sincerely,
Paul Schorr
Co-President
John Phelan
Co-President
cc: Richard Pryor, Chief of Police, Aspen Police Department
Jo DiSalvo, Sheriff, Pitkin County
Arnold Mordikin, Chief Deputy District Attorney, Aspen
******
Original post of Feb. 4, 2012:
(See one of the related stories that's out there in the blogosphere here)
(whisper...whisper...whisper...lol....wonder how long it will take Rick Carroll to realize he's being punked by not looking deep enough into Mulcahy's details before he writes a flamer...whisper...whisper.....oh, what tangled webs are woven when one is a reporter who just keeps waving red flags in front of really ticked off consumers...whisper...whisper...whisper....here's to the little guy...let freedom ring....whisper...whisper...whisper....)
'SandBox Nanny' to Lee Mulcahy:
"Now, Lee. avatars in commentary everywhere know how much fun you're having with the strategy you have chosen to handle the Art Museum case. But don't you think it's time to grant an interview to the press and reveal the formal ban letter you received from the museum? You know, that one that everybody but the press has seen that specifically states you cannot attend their functions, etc. etc. yet they took your $600 bucks plus as a member at the same time?
Seriously. It probably won't help Rick out at all but Chad Abraham over on the Aspen Daily is a nice guy and his coverage of the local area crime and justice beat is the best around. Even Chad is sounding a little confused today: "Lawsuit: Man's ban from future museum site unconstitutional"
'Nanny' is asking you to think about this. The Kaplan libel suit is the seriously concerning to Skico and the community at large suit and the Aspen Art Museum is also serious because they are way off base and out of line with any measure of common sense. But to keep these reporters running around in circles is is a little bit harsh, wouldn't you say?
For what it's worth, here's a suggestion.
Call a press phone conference and let them have at you. Ask whatever they want. One time shot only. Maybe invite Richie Cohen and a few others. Or, if you have your public stocks built yet and are ready to place yourself in them on the Hyman Mall; hold the press conference right before somebody like Richie locks your head down.
Just try to not toy with them for too long, OK? It's important to always at least try to place nice in the SandBox."
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
SandBox Comments: Steamboat Today "Steamboat, Hayden bid for state funds to promote creative districts"
As the stories of other Colorado communities that have their bids in on the grant funding to create "creative districts", one has to wonder why Glenwood Springs hasn't applied.
Surely, with our coffers still staying steadily down by over 60% going on four years now; one would think that focus on infrastructure growth would be a priority.
Good luck to Steamboat Springs on this bid to:
Nicole Inglis:
"...designate downtown as a creative district. The grant application form describes creative districts as communities or neighborhoods that “attract creative entrepreneurs,” “revitalize and beautify communities” and “provide a focal point for celebrating … a community’s unique identity...”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
Surely, with our coffers still staying steadily down by over 60% going on four years now; one would think that focus on infrastructure growth would be a priority.
Good luck to Steamboat Springs on this bid to:
Nicole Inglis:
"...designate downtown as a creative district. The grant application form describes creative districts as communities or neighborhoods that “attract creative entrepreneurs,” “revitalize and beautify communities” and “provide a focal point for celebrating … a community’s unique identity...”
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically tracking patterns within news others make since 2010"
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