Good wishes to Laurne Redfern as she tries to put this behind her and move on with her life.
Don Coleman:
"BASALT, Colo. -- A former Basalt High School teacher having sex with a student has agreed to a plea deal with prosecutors.
Under the agreement, Lauren Redfern, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor. Two counts of Sexual Assault on a Minor by a Person in a Position of Trust were dropped.
The charges comes after she and the 18-year-old student were allegedly caught having sex in her office bathroom at the school in February. According to the Aspen Time, both Redfern and the victim told authorities they had sex when he was 17, as well.
The Times also reports the victim told authorities he "pursued" Redfern romantically and that the couple called off their relationship until he graduated.
The teacher has since resigned from the school..." (Read the orginal article? Click title)
Comment ability blocked on this post.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Showing posts with label KJCT News 8. Show all posts
Showing posts with label KJCT News 8. Show all posts
May 19, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Inside The Gauntlet'
It's not 'Tough Mudder' (...I mean...who can trump courses designed by British Special Forces, challenged all over the world including our own military and that benefit proceeds to Wounded Warriors?) but the new "Gauntlet" down and over in Grand Junction does sound like a lot of fun.
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- On Saturday nearly 400 competitors will see if they have what it takes to challenge The Gauntlet. It's a filthy and formidable obstacle course designed to test your limits. It's the first mud race of it's kind in the Grand Valley. KJCT got an exclusive look as Aman Chabra was invited to test it out.
It's dirty, it's daunting and down right demanding. The Western Colorado Contractor's Association has spent three days building this course. Our own Aman Chabra, along with his challenger were the first to test it out.
"Definitely more than I expected," said Chabra.
Sonya Foster, a member of the The Western Colorado Contractor's Association, says, "The Gauntlet is the Grand Junction area's first mud run obstacle event and we are hoping to make it an annual event for people to come and participate."
The first challenge is a 70 foot climb up a giant hill.
Foster says, "It is pretty steep and when you are coming down it is muddy, so we are going to be shooting water on it to make sure it stays muddy."
Then comes the mud pit. "To be able to jump into it felt kind of good, but then I had to take a few steps," said Chabra.
During the Gauntlet, mud becomes a badge of honor.
Chabra says, "It was just caked everywhere, not to mention the fact that flour gets thrown on you right afterward."
This race is not just about brawn, your brain will also be tested. You have to move a ball through a maze with a wheelbarrow before you can advance...." (Read more? Click title)
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- On Saturday nearly 400 competitors will see if they have what it takes to challenge The Gauntlet. It's a filthy and formidable obstacle course designed to test your limits. It's the first mud race of it's kind in the Grand Valley. KJCT got an exclusive look as Aman Chabra was invited to test it out.
It's dirty, it's daunting and down right demanding. The Western Colorado Contractor's Association has spent three days building this course. Our own Aman Chabra, along with his challenger were the first to test it out.
"Definitely more than I expected," said Chabra.
Sonya Foster, a member of the The Western Colorado Contractor's Association, says, "The Gauntlet is the Grand Junction area's first mud run obstacle event and we are hoping to make it an annual event for people to come and participate."
The first challenge is a 70 foot climb up a giant hill.
Foster says, "It is pretty steep and when you are coming down it is muddy, so we are going to be shooting water on it to make sure it stays muddy."
Then comes the mud pit. "To be able to jump into it felt kind of good, but then I had to take a few steps," said Chabra.
During the Gauntlet, mud becomes a badge of honor.
Chabra says, "It was just caked everywhere, not to mention the fact that flour gets thrown on you right afterward."
This race is not just about brawn, your brain will also be tested. You have to move a ball through a maze with a wheelbarrow before you can advance...." (Read more? Click title)
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
May 3, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Accused Drug Thief Pleads to Murder Charge"
Don Coleman:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- The man accused of stealing drugs from an Orchard Mesa dealer before shooting and killing a 16-year-old co-conspirator has agreed to a plea deal.
Joshua Ringold, 22, has agreed to plead guilty to one charge of 2nd Degree Murder and another of Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Robbery. As part of the plea deal, one count of 1st Degree Murder, one count of Attempted 1st Degree Murder, three counts of 1st Degree Burglary, and two counts of Felony Menacing with a Weapon were all dropped.
According to Prosecutor Dan Rubinstein, the sentences for each charge must run consecutively meaning Ringold faces anywhere from 21 to 64 years in prison at a sentencing hearing in July...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- The man accused of stealing drugs from an Orchard Mesa dealer before shooting and killing a 16-year-old co-conspirator has agreed to a plea deal.
Joshua Ringold, 22, has agreed to plead guilty to one charge of 2nd Degree Murder and another of Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Robbery. As part of the plea deal, one count of 1st Degree Murder, one count of Attempted 1st Degree Murder, three counts of 1st Degree Burglary, and two counts of Felony Menacing with a Weapon were all dropped.
According to Prosecutor Dan Rubinstein, the sentences for each charge must run consecutively meaning Ringold faces anywhere from 21 to 64 years in prison at a sentencing hearing in July...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
May 2, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Colo. Exoneration Program to Expand"
A very interesting piece from Don Coleman off KJCT News 8. Over Grand Junction way.
Sort of sounds like Sheriff Stan Hilkey's 'Evidence Based Decision Making Project'.
Don Coleman:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- Colorado's Attorney General's Office says it has been awarded additional funding to expand the program that exonerated Robert Dewey after 17 years in prison.
Since being convicted, Dewey tried to appeal through the justice system, but nothing ever came about until phase one of the Justice Review Project (JRP) that began in 2010.
It was a process that began back in 2009 when money suddenly became available at the federal level.
"There was a pool of money available for organizations and state offices and we applied for it," Julie Selsberg, Senior Assistant Attorney General for Colorado, said. "We were the only pure prosecution office to be awarded some of that` grant."
A total of 15 organizations from across the country were awarded funds by the National Institute of Justice. Colorado's were aimed at identifying cases in our state where DNA testing could potentially exonerate a wrongfully-convicted inmate.
Nearly 5,000 cases of murder, manslaughter, and sexual assault were screened state-wide without applications for review. Under the strict rules of the JRP, further eligibility would be determined.
First, only the cases of inmates who maintain a claim of innocence without ever admitting any degree of guilt would be screened. Then, someone from the Attorney General's Office would look at any and all court documents related to the case.
If the review passed those eyes, staff would contact the inmate, any witnesses, and all attorneys assigned to the case. Upon further screening, it would be up to a panel of investigators and attorneys to decide if DNA testing was needed to continue the process....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Sort of sounds like Sheriff Stan Hilkey's 'Evidence Based Decision Making Project'.
Don Coleman:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- Colorado's Attorney General's Office says it has been awarded additional funding to expand the program that exonerated Robert Dewey after 17 years in prison.
Since being convicted, Dewey tried to appeal through the justice system, but nothing ever came about until phase one of the Justice Review Project (JRP) that began in 2010.
It was a process that began back in 2009 when money suddenly became available at the federal level.
"There was a pool of money available for organizations and state offices and we applied for it," Julie Selsberg, Senior Assistant Attorney General for Colorado, said. "We were the only pure prosecution office to be awarded some of that` grant."
A total of 15 organizations from across the country were awarded funds by the National Institute of Justice. Colorado's were aimed at identifying cases in our state where DNA testing could potentially exonerate a wrongfully-convicted inmate.
Nearly 5,000 cases of murder, manslaughter, and sexual assault were screened state-wide without applications for review. Under the strict rules of the JRP, further eligibility would be determined.
First, only the cases of inmates who maintain a claim of innocence without ever admitting any degree of guilt would be screened. Then, someone from the Attorney General's Office would look at any and all court documents related to the case.
If the review passed those eyes, staff would contact the inmate, any witnesses, and all attorneys assigned to the case. Upon further screening, it would be up to a panel of investigators and attorneys to decide if DNA testing was needed to continue the process....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 30, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Homeless Shelter Ready For Teens To Move In"
Janelle Ericsson:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., -- Every year 5,000 homeless teens die on the streets of America, and nearly 200 of them live right here in Mesa County.
"Anybody can end up homeless," volunteer Mary Russell said.
Officially opening on May 2nd, The House will be the only homeless shelter in the state just for teens and it’s located in Grand Junction.
"A lot of the times people hear teen shelter and think of a flop house,” executive director John Mok-Lamme said. “A place where teens can come and just move on, but the whole goal of this shelter is help kids transition to stability."
The House can accommodate 10 teens at a time for a three week period, meeting the annual need for Mesa County's homeless...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., -- Every year 5,000 homeless teens die on the streets of America, and nearly 200 of them live right here in Mesa County.
"Anybody can end up homeless," volunteer Mary Russell said.
Officially opening on May 2nd, The House will be the only homeless shelter in the state just for teens and it’s located in Grand Junction.
"A lot of the times people hear teen shelter and think of a flop house,” executive director John Mok-Lamme said. “A place where teens can come and just move on, but the whole goal of this shelter is help kids transition to stability."
The House can accommodate 10 teens at a time for a three week period, meeting the annual need for Mesa County's homeless...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 28, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Local Man Found Innocent After 16 Years In Prison"
Shannon Ballard:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo -- A Western Slope man spent 16 years in prison for the 1994 rape and murder of a Palisade woman.
Now new DNA evidence is clearing Robert Dewey's name.
Dewey has maintained his innocence since being given a life sentence, and come Monday he is expected to be released.
He was charged with the murder of Jacie Taylor.
A 19-year-old Palisade woman was found dead in the summer of 1994, lying facedown in her half filled bath tub.
Taylor had been beaten, sexually assaulted and strangled.
Dewey was not immediately charged with the crime and his defense attorney Steve Laiche says he never should've been....." (Read more? Click title. Comment ability blocked. )
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo -- A Western Slope man spent 16 years in prison for the 1994 rape and murder of a Palisade woman.
Now new DNA evidence is clearing Robert Dewey's name.
Dewey has maintained his innocence since being given a life sentence, and come Monday he is expected to be released.
He was charged with the murder of Jacie Taylor.
A 19-year-old Palisade woman was found dead in the summer of 1994, lying facedown in her half filled bath tub.
Taylor had been beaten, sexually assaulted and strangled.
Dewey was not immediately charged with the crime and his defense attorney Steve Laiche says he never should've been....." (Read more? Click title. Comment ability blocked. )
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 26, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Local Cops See Crime Rates Fall After Gas Bust"
Don Coleman:
"PARACHUTE, Colo. -- A smaller police force is a sign of the times in Parachute after a boom and bust in oil and gas production in the area, but so is much less of a crime rate.
Since peaking at around 8,000 calls to service in 2006, the number has been cut in half with fewer industry workers in town.
"We've seen a lot of people move out," Chief Cary Parmenter with the Parachute Police Department said.
"We've got a large apartment complex in town that is half empty now."
Last year, Parmenter says the town saw 4,257 calls which is close to the pre-development numbers of about 3,000 calls each year. He recalled struggling to meet the demand when crime was much more of a problem.
"Before oil shale, we had three officers on staff. It took us a while to hire and train more, but we ended up with a staff of eight," Parmenter explained.
Even though the number of crimes had increased, Parmenter says the severity of those crimes did not necessarily go in the same direction although the industry brought with it the town's first and only murder...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"PARACHUTE, Colo. -- A smaller police force is a sign of the times in Parachute after a boom and bust in oil and gas production in the area, but so is much less of a crime rate.
Since peaking at around 8,000 calls to service in 2006, the number has been cut in half with fewer industry workers in town.
"We've seen a lot of people move out," Chief Cary Parmenter with the Parachute Police Department said.
"We've got a large apartment complex in town that is half empty now."
Last year, Parmenter says the town saw 4,257 calls which is close to the pre-development numbers of about 3,000 calls each year. He recalled struggling to meet the demand when crime was much more of a problem.
"Before oil shale, we had three officers on staff. It took us a while to hire and train more, but we ended up with a staff of eight," Parmenter explained.
Even though the number of crimes had increased, Parmenter says the severity of those crimes did not necessarily go in the same direction although the industry brought with it the town's first and only murder...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 25, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Red Cross Heroes: Local Cop Goes Above and Beyond"
Don Coleman:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- As part of our month dedicated to honoring those who stand out in shaping communities across the Western Slope, a Mesa County police officer is being recognized for his involvement in law enforcement.
"I've been at sheriff's office for 13 years. It keeps me busy, keeps me out of trouble for most part."
When Sergeant Jeff Byrne began his career at the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, he could not have pictured a more promising journey.
"Growing up, I always wanted to be in law enforcement. I always wanted to be a police officer."
That dream became reality in 1999 and he has not wasted one minute of the opportunity. "It's very rewarding and nice to get up in the morning knowing you're doing a job you love."
In a staff of dozens of people excelling at their jobs, Byrne stands out.
"We have a lot of 'Jacks of All Trades' here and that's what Jeff does," Sheriff Stan Hilkey said. He's a work horse and we wish we had more like him."..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- As part of our month dedicated to honoring those who stand out in shaping communities across the Western Slope, a Mesa County police officer is being recognized for his involvement in law enforcement.
"I've been at sheriff's office for 13 years. It keeps me busy, keeps me out of trouble for most part."
When Sergeant Jeff Byrne began his career at the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, he could not have pictured a more promising journey.
"Growing up, I always wanted to be in law enforcement. I always wanted to be a police officer."
That dream became reality in 1999 and he has not wasted one minute of the opportunity. "It's very rewarding and nice to get up in the morning knowing you're doing a job you love."
In a staff of dozens of people excelling at their jobs, Byrne stands out.
"We have a lot of 'Jacks of All Trades' here and that's what Jeff does," Sheriff Stan Hilkey said. He's a work horse and we wish we had more like him."..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 20, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Big Changes Coming To Part Of Garfield County"
Congrats to the City of Rifle!! Rockin the slope with the obvious intentions of continuing to blow right by the economic growth of everyone else in the neighborhood.
This..is terrific news.
Janelle Ericsson:
"RIFLE, Colo. -- Changes are coming to part of Garfield County. The city of Rifle is expanding it's downtown to be more pedestrian friendly and bring new businesses to the area.
The city of Rifle received an $800,000 grant from the federal government to improve the town. City officials say they have had a lot of success in the past with developments and they have high hopes for this project too.
One of the most important things the city of Rifle is looking to do is make the downtown area more visually appealing and a place where businesses would want to open. It hopes by bringing new businesses to town it will benefit the current community as well as bring more tourists through Rifle.
"We're really taking a hard look at the market reality and which projects will actually fly given the economic situation that we're in currently but also looking forward to where the economic situation can change and how do we actually make a deal happen to make projects go forward," city planner Nathan Lindquist said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
This..is terrific news.
Janelle Ericsson:
"RIFLE, Colo. -- Changes are coming to part of Garfield County. The city of Rifle is expanding it's downtown to be more pedestrian friendly and bring new businesses to the area.
The city of Rifle received an $800,000 grant from the federal government to improve the town. City officials say they have had a lot of success in the past with developments and they have high hopes for this project too.
One of the most important things the city of Rifle is looking to do is make the downtown area more visually appealing and a place where businesses would want to open. It hopes by bringing new businesses to town it will benefit the current community as well as bring more tourists through Rifle.
"We're really taking a hard look at the market reality and which projects will actually fly given the economic situation that we're in currently but also looking forward to where the economic situation can change and how do we actually make a deal happen to make projects go forward," city planner Nathan Lindquist said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 18, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "New Business Plan Proposed By USPS"
Janelle Ericsson:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., -- Saturday delivery is on the proposed chopping block as the U.S. Postal Service looks for other ways to stay on budget. The post master general introduced the new piece of legislation to congress Tuesday in an attempt to avoid a bailout.
The postal service says it does not receive tax dollars for operating expenses. It relies entirely on the sales of postage, and services to fund it's operations. It says as more people turn to electronic payments and internet to keep in touch USPS says it cannot keep operating the same....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., -- Saturday delivery is on the proposed chopping block as the U.S. Postal Service looks for other ways to stay on budget. The post master general introduced the new piece of legislation to congress Tuesday in an attempt to avoid a bailout.
The postal service says it does not receive tax dollars for operating expenses. It relies entirely on the sales of postage, and services to fund it's operations. It says as more people turn to electronic payments and internet to keep in touch USPS says it cannot keep operating the same....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 16, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "DA's Office: Drug Dealer to be Re-Sentenced"
Don Coleman:
"But prosecutors say despite the argument and plea for a ten year prison term, Judge David Bottger handed down the six year sentence while agreeing that Tait should be taken out of the community for this offense.
Days later, the DA's Office says it received a call from Judge Bottger's clerk saying he had "changed his mind" and was requesting Tait not be transported to the Department of Corrections. The Judge apparently wanted to schedule another sentencing hearing.
It is not clear what led up to the Judge's request, nor what he apparently changed his mind about. We are told the hearing has been set for later this week....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"But prosecutors say despite the argument and plea for a ten year prison term, Judge David Bottger handed down the six year sentence while agreeing that Tait should be taken out of the community for this offense.
Days later, the DA's Office says it received a call from Judge Bottger's clerk saying he had "changed his mind" and was requesting Tait not be transported to the Department of Corrections. The Judge apparently wanted to schedule another sentencing hearing.
It is not clear what led up to the Judge's request, nor what he apparently changed his mind about. We are told the hearing has been set for later this week....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 4, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Fruita Voters Ban Medical Marijuana"
Don Coleman:
"FRUITA, Colo. -- Voters in Fruita have decided to ban the medical marijuana industry inside city limits in April's municipal election. The final tally was released around 10:15 pm Tuesday after more than 2,800 people cast ballots.
Drawing interest this election were a number of issues and city races, but none may be more controversial than the question regarding an outright ban of medical marijuana operations within city limits.
Referred Issue B, as it was labeled, was passed by an unofficial vote of 2,044 to 754. The vote 'Yes' bans the industry inside city limits. It's a decision that joins Grand Junction and unincorporated Mesa County with similar bans making Palisade the next closest town allowing dispensaries...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"FRUITA, Colo. -- Voters in Fruita have decided to ban the medical marijuana industry inside city limits in April's municipal election. The final tally was released around 10:15 pm Tuesday after more than 2,800 people cast ballots.
Drawing interest this election were a number of issues and city races, but none may be more controversial than the question regarding an outright ban of medical marijuana operations within city limits.
Referred Issue B, as it was labeled, was passed by an unofficial vote of 2,044 to 754. The vote 'Yes' bans the industry inside city limits. It's a decision that joins Grand Junction and unincorporated Mesa County with similar bans making Palisade the next closest town allowing dispensaries...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
April 2, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Fruita Voters Weigh in on Pot Shop Ban"
Megan Terlecky:
"...Safe and Healthy Mesa County has campaigned against similar measures in the Grand Valley and now is rallying support for Referendum B in Fruita.
Cox says, “We are hoping people will turn out to vote yes to ban pot shops.”
Referendum B on the citywide ballot, asks voters if they support a ban of all medical marijuana dispensaries, growing operations, and the manufacture of pot-infused products within city limits...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"...Safe and Healthy Mesa County has campaigned against similar measures in the Grand Valley and now is rallying support for Referendum B in Fruita.
Cox says, “We are hoping people will turn out to vote yes to ban pot shops.”
Referendum B on the citywide ballot, asks voters if they support a ban of all medical marijuana dispensaries, growing operations, and the manufacture of pot-infused products within city limits...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
March 31, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Lone Ranger Casting Call This Sunday"
"A casting call is going on this Sunday (4/1) for extras for the new Disney movie , “The Lone Ranger.” The movie, starring Johnny Depp, will begin shooting in Colorado and Utah this summer. Extras must be available for work in Late June/July.
Sande Alessi Casting, the Los Angeles-based Casting Directors of “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”, “The Social Network,” “Glee, ”CSI” and hundreds more amazing projects, will be holding the open casting call for background extras...." (Read more? Find out where to go? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Sande Alessi Casting, the Los Angeles-based Casting Directors of “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”, “The Social Network,” “Glee, ”CSI” and hundreds more amazing projects, will be holding the open casting call for background extras...." (Read more? Find out where to go? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
March 28, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Search and Rescue Donation"
Please remember to buy your CORSAR card for every member of your family on an annual basis.
Thank you to all of the incredible men and women of all Colorado Search and Rescue teams. You are appreciated.
Shannon Ballard:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo -- A local family is giving back to Mesa County’s Search and Rescue teams in honor of a lost loved one.
Randy Johnson drowned in the Grand Canyon in an area where search and rescue wasn't available.
Tuesday, his family and friends donated $1,000 with the hope of providing a safer outdoor experience for others.
Hundreds of volunteers make up Mesa County’s Search and Rescue.
The organization says its missions are only possible through donations like this one..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Thank you to all of the incredible men and women of all Colorado Search and Rescue teams. You are appreciated.
Shannon Ballard:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo -- A local family is giving back to Mesa County’s Search and Rescue teams in honor of a lost loved one.
Randy Johnson drowned in the Grand Canyon in an area where search and rescue wasn't available.
Tuesday, his family and friends donated $1,000 with the hope of providing a safer outdoor experience for others.
Hundreds of volunteers make up Mesa County’s Search and Rescue.
The organization says its missions are only possible through donations like this one..."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
March 14, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Re-2 School District Approves 4 Day Weeks"
It is hard. Has been hard to watch as well.
But sooner or later, our public schools and publicaly funded education had to get a wake-up call because somewhere along the way they just found it way too easy to stick their hand out for public money and live on credit.
There is no reason whatsoever that taxpayers should be funding public education when there are so many alternatives out there that could make our public education system self-sustaining.
RE-2, out of necessity, has just hit on one of those ways. Four day school weeks. Now take it a step further and start after Labor Day with an end to the year right before Memorial Day. Cut back on vacation/break times to make up the difference. The end result will be far greater efficiency and lower operating costs.
While on a roll, here's to RE-2 pulling together a push toward lawmakers to break up the Parks and Rec 'hogs' who scarf up all the gaming and lottery proceeds. That cash cow whould be divided equally between parks and rec, K-12 education, road and bridge and law enforcement.
Don Coleman:
"NEW CASTLE, Colo. -- Garfield County's Re-2 school district will join more than 50 others across the state on a four day school week next year. The decision was handed down at Tuesday night's school board meeting and is part of an effort to cut costs with a $1.7million to $2.2 million shortfall looming.
After a lengthy meeting, the board voted four to one in favor of shortening school weeks.
"To me, it's probably our most positive option," School Board President Chris Pearson said. "It was a tough decision, but probably the easiest to make now that we're considering 'big ticket items.'"
Pearson says this choice is one of the only ones that offsets costs without affecting the staff too much.
The school district's financial department expects the move will save the district around $500,000 next year through fuel reductions, hourly staff reductions, and savings on utilities....:" (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
But sooner or later, our public schools and publicaly funded education had to get a wake-up call because somewhere along the way they just found it way too easy to stick their hand out for public money and live on credit.
There is no reason whatsoever that taxpayers should be funding public education when there are so many alternatives out there that could make our public education system self-sustaining.
RE-2, out of necessity, has just hit on one of those ways. Four day school weeks. Now take it a step further and start after Labor Day with an end to the year right before Memorial Day. Cut back on vacation/break times to make up the difference. The end result will be far greater efficiency and lower operating costs.
While on a roll, here's to RE-2 pulling together a push toward lawmakers to break up the Parks and Rec 'hogs' who scarf up all the gaming and lottery proceeds. That cash cow whould be divided equally between parks and rec, K-12 education, road and bridge and law enforcement.
Don Coleman:
"NEW CASTLE, Colo. -- Garfield County's Re-2 school district will join more than 50 others across the state on a four day school week next year. The decision was handed down at Tuesday night's school board meeting and is part of an effort to cut costs with a $1.7million to $2.2 million shortfall looming.
After a lengthy meeting, the board voted four to one in favor of shortening school weeks.
"To me, it's probably our most positive option," School Board President Chris Pearson said. "It was a tough decision, but probably the easiest to make now that we're considering 'big ticket items.'"
Pearson says this choice is one of the only ones that offsets costs without affecting the staff too much.
The school district's financial department expects the move will save the district around $500,000 next year through fuel reductions, hourly staff reductions, and savings on utilities....:" (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
March 8, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: KJCT News 8 "Finding A Voice On Horseback"
Dann Cianca:
"DELTA COUNTY, Colo. -- A special young man is finding his voice, and all from the back of a horse.
Therapeutic horseback riding is an increasingly popular type of therapy used to help people with disabilities or injuries regain skills or develop them for the first time.
Young riders Savannah Russell and Katelan Sinski learned about the practice while riding horses at the North Fork Riding School, southwest of Paonia. Their instructor, Helen Dennison, took them to Durango to see a therapeutic riding program in action.
When the girls returned to Paonia, they thought of their friend David, a classmate from North Fork Vision, a type of charter school in Paonia.
17-year-old David Burns has Down Syndrome and throughout his life, he has had difficulty with his speech. Now as David is getting older, he has embarked on a new endeavor. He has his own delivery business.
"I want him to do something that provides meaning to him," his mother Kitty said.
Now David needs his voice more than ever; that's where his classmates came in...."
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"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"DELTA COUNTY, Colo. -- A special young man is finding his voice, and all from the back of a horse.
Therapeutic horseback riding is an increasingly popular type of therapy used to help people with disabilities or injuries regain skills or develop them for the first time.
Young riders Savannah Russell and Katelan Sinski learned about the practice while riding horses at the North Fork Riding School, southwest of Paonia. Their instructor, Helen Dennison, took them to Durango to see a therapeutic riding program in action.
When the girls returned to Paonia, they thought of their friend David, a classmate from North Fork Vision, a type of charter school in Paonia.
17-year-old David Burns has Down Syndrome and throughout his life, he has had difficulty with his speech. Now as David is getting older, he has embarked on a new endeavor. He has his own delivery business.
"I want him to do something that provides meaning to him," his mother Kitty said.
Now David needs his voice more than ever; that's where his classmates came in...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 17, 2012
SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "Western Slope Cow Gives Birth to Rare Triplets"
Megan Terlecky:
"MONTROSE, Colo. -- Some are calling it a miracle, a Western Slope cow gave birth to triplets. The rare event happens only one time in 8 million births. Our cameras got a look at these new calves just hours after they were born.
Not even a day old, these three are still a little shaky on their feet, but eager for mom's milk.
Kim Lechleiter, the owner of the calves, says, “It's really a historical deal to have triplets.”
Lechleiter has been raising Simmental cows since 1977.
“Out of all the years of calving, I’ve never had a set of triplets,” he said...."
(Read more? Watch the video? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"MONTROSE, Colo. -- Some are calling it a miracle, a Western Slope cow gave birth to triplets. The rare event happens only one time in 8 million births. Our cameras got a look at these new calves just hours after they were born.
Not even a day old, these three are still a little shaky on their feet, but eager for mom's milk.
Kim Lechleiter, the owner of the calves, says, “It's really a historical deal to have triplets.”
Lechleiter has been raising Simmental cows since 1977.
“Out of all the years of calving, I’ve never had a set of triplets,” he said...."
(Read more? Watch the video? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 16, 2012
SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "Parachute Pair Faces Charges in Montana"
Though nothing can be greater than the tragedy for the Arnold family, these cases have more victims on the sidelines.
Our local judge who obeyed law and also trusted what was told in court and let him cross state lines. Our law enforcement spanning multiple states who cannot find the assumed deceased. When discretion is found to be human in nature and not infallible, there are times when the tragedy that results touches many lives.
These are the types of cases that haunt until they are resolved. 'SandBox Nanny' hopes that the hearts and minds of all the victims can start moving toward resolution.
We'll watch for the information Don Coleman implies in his report today. Over on KJCT.
"...The judge in this case set bail at $2.5 million for each of the suspects. Both will appear again in court later this month and if convicted of the charges could face the death penalty.
While the justice system runs its course, the Montana community continues to mourn the loss of Arnold. The popular high school math teacher's birthday was Monday and she would have been 44, according to KTVQ.
Despite the charges, there is still a large mystery surrounding why Waters Jr. and Spell are accused in this case. Prosecutors, however, plan to announce why in the coming weeks...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Our local judge who obeyed law and also trusted what was told in court and let him cross state lines. Our law enforcement spanning multiple states who cannot find the assumed deceased. When discretion is found to be human in nature and not infallible, there are times when the tragedy that results touches many lives.
These are the types of cases that haunt until they are resolved. 'SandBox Nanny' hopes that the hearts and minds of all the victims can start moving toward resolution.
We'll watch for the information Don Coleman implies in his report today. Over on KJCT.
"...The judge in this case set bail at $2.5 million for each of the suspects. Both will appear again in court later this month and if convicted of the charges could face the death penalty.
While the justice system runs its course, the Montana community continues to mourn the loss of Arnold. The popular high school math teacher's birthday was Monday and she would have been 44, according to KTVQ.
Despite the charges, there is still a large mystery surrounding why Waters Jr. and Spell are accused in this case. Prosecutors, however, plan to announce why in the coming weeks...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
February 3, 2012
SandBox Comments: KJCT News 8 "La Plata Sheriff's Office Mourns Deputy's Off-Duty Death"
Katie Ryan:
"Hollis Holland began working for La Plata Sheriff’s Office on a part time basis in 1991, then as a full time Deputy for 19 years, beginning in 1992. During that time he received numerous commendations including being awarded the Badge of Merit in 2002 for leading an investigation that resulted in the arrest of a person who was intentionally starting fires while firefighters were still battling the Missionary Ridge Fire.
He received a second Badge of Merit in 2010 when he discovered a house that was on fire and rescued a woman who was still in the house and unaware of the fire.
Bender said Holland and his wife moved to the area in the 1970’s where he worked in a mine in Silverton and fell in love with the San Juan Mountains. He was a leader with San Juan County Search & Rescue for ten years and an active member of the Silverton Avalanche School in the 1980’s before joining La Plata Sheriff’s Office.
Holland was also instrumental in the operation of the Deputy Ski Program that put LPCSO Deputies on the slopes of Durango Mountain Ski Area at Purgatory for enhanced security and quicker response times. Bender said Holland was also well known both in San Juan and La Plata Counties for filling in for Santa Claus when Santa was busy elsewhere...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Hollis Holland began working for La Plata Sheriff’s Office on a part time basis in 1991, then as a full time Deputy for 19 years, beginning in 1992. During that time he received numerous commendations including being awarded the Badge of Merit in 2002 for leading an investigation that resulted in the arrest of a person who was intentionally starting fires while firefighters were still battling the Missionary Ridge Fire.
He received a second Badge of Merit in 2010 when he discovered a house that was on fire and rescued a woman who was still in the house and unaware of the fire.
Bender said Holland and his wife moved to the area in the 1970’s where he worked in a mine in Silverton and fell in love with the San Juan Mountains. He was a leader with San Juan County Search & Rescue for ten years and an active member of the Silverton Avalanche School in the 1980’s before joining La Plata Sheriff’s Office.
Holland was also instrumental in the operation of the Deputy Ski Program that put LPCSO Deputies on the slopes of Durango Mountain Ski Area at Purgatory for enhanced security and quicker response times. Bender said Holland was also well known both in San Juan and La Plata Counties for filling in for Santa Claus when Santa was busy elsewhere...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."
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