Excellent idea from Sharon Brenner this morning. Here on the Glenwood Springs Post Independent.
Sharon Brenner:
"I am wondering why Carbondale thinks it should get energy impact funds for its new library, especially since the town is doing all it can to fight natural gas drilling in the area. The town itself is responsible for adding significant additional costs to the construction of the library. It is retirees and trust funders who have moved to Carbondale that are driving the need for a larger library — not energy company employees. I urge the Garfield County commissioners to deny the town's request.
Just out of curiosity, if the library were oriented to take advantage of solar heating (windows) in the morning and winter, and shaded in the afternoon during the summer, how much would be saved by not installing solar panels and the accompanying controls? How long will it take to recover the costs of the solar panels?
...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
May 29, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Town eyes renewal of gas lease to Antero Resources"
John Colson:
"SILT, Colorado — The town's Board of Trustees meets tonight at Town Hall to debate whether to renew more than 75 “net mineral acres” in natural-gas leases to the Antero Resources drilling company.
Town administrator Pamela Woods said the three-year agreement will bring in “about $180,000 a year” to the town's coffers.
The lease, which expired on April 29, gave Antero the right to drill for natural gas deposits deep underground in several areas within the town.
A map of the lease areas is available from Town Hall.
The measurement “net mineral acre,” according to a memo from town attorney Lee Leavenworth, is used when rights are owned by more than one party.
Leavenworth wrote that, for example, if the lessor owns 100 percent of the minerals underlying one acre, that equals one net mineral acre.
But if only 50 percent of the minerals underlying one acre are owned by the lessor, that constitutes half of a net mineral acre.
Leavenworth's memo did not contain any breakdown of the town's mineral rights ownership.
According to Leavenworth, the town first signed a lease with Antero in 2005, for a period of three years...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"SILT, Colorado — The town's Board of Trustees meets tonight at Town Hall to debate whether to renew more than 75 “net mineral acres” in natural-gas leases to the Antero Resources drilling company.
Town administrator Pamela Woods said the three-year agreement will bring in “about $180,000 a year” to the town's coffers.
The lease, which expired on April 29, gave Antero the right to drill for natural gas deposits deep underground in several areas within the town.
A map of the lease areas is available from Town Hall.
The measurement “net mineral acre,” according to a memo from town attorney Lee Leavenworth, is used when rights are owned by more than one party.
Leavenworth wrote that, for example, if the lessor owns 100 percent of the minerals underlying one acre, that equals one net mineral acre.
But if only 50 percent of the minerals underlying one acre are owned by the lessor, that constitutes half of a net mineral acre.
Leavenworth's memo did not contain any breakdown of the town's mineral rights ownership.
According to Leavenworth, the town first signed a lease with Antero in 2005, for a period of three years...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KUNC "Tax Break for Beetle-Kill Wood Products Expands"
Erin O'Toole:
"As vacationers head to the Colorado mountains this summer, it will be hard to miss the large swaths of dead and dying trees caused by the mountain pine and spruce beetle epidemic. But a bill signed into law earlier this month by Governor Hickenlooper could help speed up the recovery process.
Rep. Laura Bradford (R, Collbran) sponsored the bill, which extends and expands a tax exemption on the sale of products made from wood harvested from beetle-kill trees. The tax break covers items such as furniture - as well as products like firewood, lumber, and sawdust.
“We need to incentivize the marketplace to get these trees off the forest lands before there’s a catastrophic fire,” she says...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"As vacationers head to the Colorado mountains this summer, it will be hard to miss the large swaths of dead and dying trees caused by the mountain pine and spruce beetle epidemic. But a bill signed into law earlier this month by Governor Hickenlooper could help speed up the recovery process.
Rep. Laura Bradford (R, Collbran) sponsored the bill, which extends and expands a tax exemption on the sale of products made from wood harvested from beetle-kill trees. The tax break covers items such as furniture - as well as products like firewood, lumber, and sawdust.
Decorator Charise Buckley praised the wood's versatility last year in a Denver Post article:
The distinct look of beetle-kill pine — produced by the infestation — also strikes a chord with home design fans. Beetles invade the bark of mature lodgepole and ponderosa pines and lay eggs. The resulting larvae feed on and ultimately kill the tree.Bradford says removing beetle-kill trees is critical to future forest health – and with more than 3 million acres of trees destroyed, Colorado needs to approach the problem from every angle.
Though the interior wood of the tree remains unchanged and structurally sound, a blue fungus carried by the beetles stains the wood, leaving telltale blue, green and gray streaks.
“We need to incentivize the marketplace to get these trees off the forest lands before there’s a catastrophic fire,” she says...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Snowmass Village tourism officials intertwine marketing with Aspen name"
Chad Abraham:
"Snowmass Village Councilman John Wilkinson often draws blank stares at other ski resorts, even in Colorado, when he tells fellow skiers where he resides.
But mention Aspen and it’s instant recognition, he said.
Snowmass tourism officials know the feeling. Last week, Susan Hamley, director of the town’s Snowmass Tourism office, unveiled a new advertising campaign that will tout the variety of activities not just in the village but also in Aspen and elsewhere in the valley.
One potential ad Hamley displayed to Town Council on May 21 features a photo of the Belly Up, the popular concert venue in Aspen.
The advert “plays up what we have here in Snowmass, what we have with our partners in Aspen and what you can get in the valley,” Hamley said. “We mention Aspen in the copy as well, saying that the combination of these two neighbors is powerful.”
But Hamley said in an email that the effort should not be construed as the town “abandoning our own identity.”
“While we’ve also always promoted Aspen arts and cultural organizations as well as bigger events there, our board would like to align even more with our highly recognized neighbor,” she said. “Aspen is a key differentiator for Snowmass ... not for all audiences but for many.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Snowmass Village Councilman John Wilkinson often draws blank stares at other ski resorts, even in Colorado, when he tells fellow skiers where he resides.
But mention Aspen and it’s instant recognition, he said.
Snowmass tourism officials know the feeling. Last week, Susan Hamley, director of the town’s Snowmass Tourism office, unveiled a new advertising campaign that will tout the variety of activities not just in the village but also in Aspen and elsewhere in the valley.
One potential ad Hamley displayed to Town Council on May 21 features a photo of the Belly Up, the popular concert venue in Aspen.
The advert “plays up what we have here in Snowmass, what we have with our partners in Aspen and what you can get in the valley,” Hamley said. “We mention Aspen in the copy as well, saying that the combination of these two neighbors is powerful.”
But Hamley said in an email that the effort should not be construed as the town “abandoning our own identity.”
“While we’ve also always promoted Aspen arts and cultural organizations as well as bigger events there, our board would like to align even more with our highly recognized neighbor,” she said. “Aspen is a key differentiator for Snowmass ... not for all audiences but for many.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "The new face of Grand Junction tourism"
Caitlin Row:
"Already successfully branded as Colorado's Wine County, Grand Valley tourism seeks to expand its reach even further with a new push — to be known for its extraordinary recreation and culinary options.
Hiking, biking, rafting, golfing, dining — all the “-ings.”
“It's all about diversity and having lots of choices,” Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau (GJVCB) division manager Barbara Bowman said.
Now, Bowman's big tourism vision has fresh energy behind it. The new marketing and PR coordinator, Mistalynn Meyeraan, said she's all about promoting Grand Junction as a recreation destination. Her ideas for local tourism incorporate an active-lifestyle focus, and cycling will “absolutely” be part of it.
It will combine “everything that we, as locals, don't take for granted,” Meyeraan said. “It's not just about tourism. It's about how great the community lifestyle is. … It's a push for new recreation advertising and awareness, because it's here.”
Meyeraan, a native to the Western Slope, most recently worked in Colorado's ski industry as Winter Park Resort's communications manager. She joined Bowman's team this month...."
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Already successfully branded as Colorado's Wine County, Grand Valley tourism seeks to expand its reach even further with a new push — to be known for its extraordinary recreation and culinary options.
Hiking, biking, rafting, golfing, dining — all the “-ings.”
“It's all about diversity and having lots of choices,” Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau (GJVCB) division manager Barbara Bowman said.
Now, Bowman's big tourism vision has fresh energy behind it. The new marketing and PR coordinator, Mistalynn Meyeraan, said she's all about promoting Grand Junction as a recreation destination. Her ideas for local tourism incorporate an active-lifestyle focus, and cycling will “absolutely” be part of it.
It will combine “everything that we, as locals, don't take for granted,” Meyeraan said. “It's not just about tourism. It's about how great the community lifestyle is. … It's a push for new recreation advertising and awareness, because it's here.”
Meyeraan, a native to the Western Slope, most recently worked in Colorado's ski industry as Winter Park Resort's communications manager. She joined Bowman's team this month...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Steamboat Today "Jimmy Westlake: Don’t miss rare transit of Venus"
Jimmy Westlake:
"“By far the noblest (sight) astronomy affords.”
That’s how Sir Edmund Halley of Halley’s Comet fame described one of nature’s rarest astronomical events — a transit of the planet Venus across the face of the sun. You won’t want to miss the only chance in your lifetime to see this noble sight on June 5.
In centuries past, transits of both Venus and Mercury were important events because astronomers could use the timings to estimate the sizes of these planets and their distances from Earth. Nowadays, these sizes and distances are well established. Modern astronomers search for the transits of undiscovered planets in front of other distant stars. Studying transits in our own solar system helps them know what to look for when observing distant suns.
In effect, a transit is a miniature version of an annular eclipse of the sun, with Venus rather than the moon crossing the sun’s face. Even more rare than the once-every-76-year passages of Mr. Halley’s comet, transits of Venus occur in pairs separated by more than a century. The two transits in each pair are eight years apart. There were no transits of Venus in the 20th century, with the previous pair happening in 1874 and 1882....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"“By far the noblest (sight) astronomy affords.”
That’s how Sir Edmund Halley of Halley’s Comet fame described one of nature’s rarest astronomical events — a transit of the planet Venus across the face of the sun. You won’t want to miss the only chance in your lifetime to see this noble sight on June 5.
In centuries past, transits of both Venus and Mercury were important events because astronomers could use the timings to estimate the sizes of these planets and their distances from Earth. Nowadays, these sizes and distances are well established. Modern astronomers search for the transits of undiscovered planets in front of other distant stars. Studying transits in our own solar system helps them know what to look for when observing distant suns.
In effect, a transit is a miniature version of an annular eclipse of the sun, with Venus rather than the moon crossing the sun’s face. Even more rare than the once-every-76-year passages of Mr. Halley’s comet, transits of Venus occur in pairs separated by more than a century. The two transits in each pair are eight years apart. There were no transits of Venus in the 20th century, with the previous pair happening in 1874 and 1882....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning photo: The break of dawn"
All credit Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — There’s a moment, perhaps a few moments, right around sunrise when the light is as good as it’s ever going to get. It’s pure magic, really, and if, as a photographer, you’re in the right place when it happens, then all that you need is the technical know-how, and maybe a few good lenses. Sometimes it doesn’t always come out the way you expected, and other times, when you get home and download the images, all you can say is, “Wow!” (See more? Click title)
"SUMMIT COUNTY — There’s a moment, perhaps a few moments, right around sunrise when the light is as good as it’s ever going to get. It’s pure magic, really, and if, as a photographer, you’re in the right place when it happens, then all that you need is the technical know-how, and maybe a few good lenses. Sometimes it doesn’t always come out the way you expected, and other times, when you get home and download the images, all you can say is, “Wow!” (See more? Click title)
May 28, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Craig Daily Press "Spokeswoman: Presidential candidate to discuss energy, job creation during Craig event "
Joe Moylan:
"Romney is expected to cite Craig and Moffat County’s abundant natural resources and dependence on the energy industry in his speech about the economy and job creation.
“We’ve heard a lot of promises from President Obama that he simply hasn’t followed through on,” Pompei said. “We’ll be talking to people across the country from now until Election Day about the governor’s ability to create jobs and his vision for moving the country forward.”
On Saturday and Sunday, local officials and law enforcement met with members of Romney’s campaign staff and U.S. Secret Service agents to discuss logistics of the event.
Visitors will not be allowed to gain access to the event until 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, according to a Romney campaign news release.
The first 1,300 people will be routed to a special, up close viewing area, Craig Police Chief Walt Vanatta said.
Residents hoping to take advantage of the special section are encouraged to arrive early.
However, because the secure area will be accessed through magnetometers, the Romney campaign will not grant secure area access to anyone carrying a backpack or weapons — even pocket knives will not be allowed, Vanatta said.
Cameras and camera cases are permitted.
Although the event does not open to the public until 7:30 a.m., Vanatta said city staff will begin closing streets as early as 5 a.m. to provide Romney campaign staffers enough time to set up.
Among the road closures are Yampa Avenue between Victory Way and Seventh Street; the 500 block of Breeze Street; the alley between the 500 blocks of Yampa Avenue and Breeze Street; and Sixth Street from Breeze to Russell streets.
In addition, the Moffat County Department of Social Services parking lot will be closed beginning at 5 a.m., as will the city parking lot south of Alice Pleasant Park.
The area will be closed to all vehicle traffic, Vanatta said.
Those attending the event will be routed down Breeze Street to the entrance, which will be located at the Department of Social Services parking lot.
Romney is scheduled to appear at 3:35 p.m. in Las Vegas following the campaign event in Craig, Pompei said.
Although the GOP contender has received invitations from local elected officials and energy operators for tours and meetings, Pompei could not confirm Sunday how much time he would spend in Craig after the public event, if any...." (Read more? Click title)
"Romney is expected to cite Craig and Moffat County’s abundant natural resources and dependence on the energy industry in his speech about the economy and job creation.
“We’ve heard a lot of promises from President Obama that he simply hasn’t followed through on,” Pompei said. “We’ll be talking to people across the country from now until Election Day about the governor’s ability to create jobs and his vision for moving the country forward.”
On Saturday and Sunday, local officials and law enforcement met with members of Romney’s campaign staff and U.S. Secret Service agents to discuss logistics of the event.
Visitors will not be allowed to gain access to the event until 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, according to a Romney campaign news release.
The first 1,300 people will be routed to a special, up close viewing area, Craig Police Chief Walt Vanatta said.
Residents hoping to take advantage of the special section are encouraged to arrive early.
However, because the secure area will be accessed through magnetometers, the Romney campaign will not grant secure area access to anyone carrying a backpack or weapons — even pocket knives will not be allowed, Vanatta said.
Cameras and camera cases are permitted.
Although the event does not open to the public until 7:30 a.m., Vanatta said city staff will begin closing streets as early as 5 a.m. to provide Romney campaign staffers enough time to set up.
Among the road closures are Yampa Avenue between Victory Way and Seventh Street; the 500 block of Breeze Street; the alley between the 500 blocks of Yampa Avenue and Breeze Street; and Sixth Street from Breeze to Russell streets.
In addition, the Moffat County Department of Social Services parking lot will be closed beginning at 5 a.m., as will the city parking lot south of Alice Pleasant Park.
The area will be closed to all vehicle traffic, Vanatta said.
Those attending the event will be routed down Breeze Street to the entrance, which will be located at the Department of Social Services parking lot.
Romney is scheduled to appear at 3:35 p.m. in Las Vegas following the campaign event in Craig, Pompei said.
Although the GOP contender has received invitations from local elected officials and energy operators for tours and meetings, Pompei could not confirm Sunday how much time he would spend in Craig after the public event, if any...." (Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Steamboat Today "Routt County Republicans ready for Romney"
Scott Franz:
"Steamboat Springs — Yampa resident Gary Burkholder plans to leave his home at 5:30 a.m. Tuesday to drive to Craig and see something rare.
“I’m 65, and this is the first time I can remember getting to meet a presidential candidate in this neck of the woods,” Burkholder said as he described why he’s excited to attend Mitt Romney’s scheduled campaign stop in downtown Craig. “We’ve never had this before. I’ve never seen a candidate this close. I really would like to get to know a little more of the personal side of him and get more information than you get on the networks.”
Steamboat Springs Republican Jack Taylor has followed presidential campaigns closely for 40 years, but the former state senator also can’t recall a time a presidential candidate stopped close to Steamboat.
“We’re part of the Colorado scene, and they’re finally realizing it,” Taylor said Sunday. “I’m excited. We’re getting on the map, and that’s good.”
Romney, the presumptive GOP nominee, is scheduled to appear at 8:30 a.m. at Alice Pleasant Park in Craig. The Denver Post reported Sunday that Romney is expected to address the effects Environmental Protection Agency regulations have had on the U.S. energy industry under the Obama administration.
As media outlets announced Romney’s visit to Northwest Colorado, some labeled Craig an interesting stop for the candidate and were quick to note the city is a four-hour drive from Denver and major media markets.
Still, the news of Romney’s visit has excited Taylor and other Routt County Republicans. Routt County Republican Chairman Chuck McConnell said he has received phone calls from several area Republicans who, like himself, plan to attend the event.
“I think it’s going to bring energy to his base,” said McConnell, a candidate for House District 56. “I also think it will show independent voters that Northwest Colorado is not out of the limelight. Colorado could be the swing vote in this election. I feel pride that people at this level of the political arena consider Colorado a place they need to go.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Steamboat Springs — Yampa resident Gary Burkholder plans to leave his home at 5:30 a.m. Tuesday to drive to Craig and see something rare.
“I’m 65, and this is the first time I can remember getting to meet a presidential candidate in this neck of the woods,” Burkholder said as he described why he’s excited to attend Mitt Romney’s scheduled campaign stop in downtown Craig. “We’ve never had this before. I’ve never seen a candidate this close. I really would like to get to know a little more of the personal side of him and get more information than you get on the networks.”
Steamboat Springs Republican Jack Taylor has followed presidential campaigns closely for 40 years, but the former state senator also can’t recall a time a presidential candidate stopped close to Steamboat.
“We’re part of the Colorado scene, and they’re finally realizing it,” Taylor said Sunday. “I’m excited. We’re getting on the map, and that’s good.”
Romney, the presumptive GOP nominee, is scheduled to appear at 8:30 a.m. at Alice Pleasant Park in Craig. The Denver Post reported Sunday that Romney is expected to address the effects Environmental Protection Agency regulations have had on the U.S. energy industry under the Obama administration.
As media outlets announced Romney’s visit to Northwest Colorado, some labeled Craig an interesting stop for the candidate and were quick to note the city is a four-hour drive from Denver and major media markets.
Still, the news of Romney’s visit has excited Taylor and other Routt County Republicans. Routt County Republican Chairman Chuck McConnell said he has received phone calls from several area Republicans who, like himself, plan to attend the event.
“I think it’s going to bring energy to his base,” said McConnell, a candidate for House District 56. “I also think it will show independent voters that Northwest Colorado is not out of the limelight. Colorado could be the swing vote in this election. I feel pride that people at this level of the political arena consider Colorado a place they need to go.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Colorado Springs Gazette "Springs could be sanctuary for trafficking victims"
Barbara Cotter:
"The girl was 12, and the man who kidnapped her from Los Angeles promised to take care of her. To love her. And maybe it seemed he did, for awhile.
It wasn’t long before he put her out on the streets of Las Vegas and told her not to come home until she’d made $1,000 a day. Social service workers eventually got to her and sent her to Southern Peaks Regional Treatment Center in Cañon City, far from the reach of her pimp.
That was three or four years ago, and it was one of the first times the staff at Southern Peaks had encountered a young victim of sexual trafficking. As time went by, though, they realized that some of the adolescent girls being sent to them for other issues — drug use, behavioral problems, criminal activity — had also been involved in the sex trade, usually under the thumb of a much older man.
As a result, Southern Peaks started The Haven Program last year to focus on the special therapeutic needs of adolescents who have been sold for sex.
“It really became apparent to us that there was a problem,” said Jeremy Hugins, admissions coordinator and client liaison for Southern Peaks. “We came up with the program to meet the need we saw in front of us.”
With estimates of at least 100,000 children and adolescents being sexually exploited each year, experts say there’s a need for more programs that give the victims — most of them girls — a safe haven away from pimps and a chance to receive intensive therapy, schooling, job skills and a path out of a life that, paradoxically, many have a hard time leaving.
If plans come through, the Colorado Springs area could soon be a prime place for more of these girls to find a new life. Three faith-based nonprofits, working independently of one another, intend to open long-term rescue, treatment and reintegration programs in the next few years....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The girl was 12, and the man who kidnapped her from Los Angeles promised to take care of her. To love her. And maybe it seemed he did, for awhile.
It wasn’t long before he put her out on the streets of Las Vegas and told her not to come home until she’d made $1,000 a day. Social service workers eventually got to her and sent her to Southern Peaks Regional Treatment Center in Cañon City, far from the reach of her pimp.
That was three or four years ago, and it was one of the first times the staff at Southern Peaks had encountered a young victim of sexual trafficking. As time went by, though, they realized that some of the adolescent girls being sent to them for other issues — drug use, behavioral problems, criminal activity — had also been involved in the sex trade, usually under the thumb of a much older man.
As a result, Southern Peaks started The Haven Program last year to focus on the special therapeutic needs of adolescents who have been sold for sex.
“It really became apparent to us that there was a problem,” said Jeremy Hugins, admissions coordinator and client liaison for Southern Peaks. “We came up with the program to meet the need we saw in front of us.”
With estimates of at least 100,000 children and adolescents being sexually exploited each year, experts say there’s a need for more programs that give the victims — most of them girls — a safe haven away from pimps and a chance to receive intensive therapy, schooling, job skills and a path out of a life that, paradoxically, many have a hard time leaving.
If plans come through, the Colorado Springs area could soon be a prime place for more of these girls to find a new life. Three faith-based nonprofits, working independently of one another, intend to open long-term rescue, treatment and reintegration programs in the next few years....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "CNG extending gas lines over Hoosier Pass"
Caddie Nath:
"Drivers may encounter single- lane closures and brief delays on Hoosier Pass over the next several weeks as Colorado Natural Gas completes a project to extend gas systems to Park County.
Crews are installing a pipeline that will make natural gas services available to residents and businesses in Park County, primarily in the towns of Fairplay and Alma.
“The expansion will not affect CNG's current customers within Summit County, as they are already being served with natural gas,” engineering manager for Summit Utilities, Inc., the parent company for CNG, Leif Lindahl stated in a recent email to the Summit Daily. “This project will benefit potential customers within Park County by providing them an economical and safe energy alternative, one that is regulated by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.”
The service expansion work between Carroll Lane and the top of the pass on Highway 9 got under way May 1 and is set to continue on the Summit County side and along the pass through July 1. The entire project is scheduled to wrap up by November, according to representatives from Colorado Natural Gas.
The private utility is not currently releasing information on the cost of the project, which is to be completed by contractor Tetra Tech, Inc....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Drivers may encounter single- lane closures and brief delays on Hoosier Pass over the next several weeks as Colorado Natural Gas completes a project to extend gas systems to Park County.
Crews are installing a pipeline that will make natural gas services available to residents and businesses in Park County, primarily in the towns of Fairplay and Alma.
“The expansion will not affect CNG's current customers within Summit County, as they are already being served with natural gas,” engineering manager for Summit Utilities, Inc., the parent company for CNG, Leif Lindahl stated in a recent email to the Summit Daily. “This project will benefit potential customers within Park County by providing them an economical and safe energy alternative, one that is regulated by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.”
The service expansion work between Carroll Lane and the top of the pass on Highway 9 got under way May 1 and is set to continue on the Summit County side and along the pass through July 1. The entire project is scheduled to wrap up by November, according to representatives from Colorado Natural Gas.
The private utility is not currently releasing information on the cost of the project, which is to be completed by contractor Tetra Tech, Inc....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Bark beetles take bite out of air quality, study says"
Matthew Berger:
"It appears that bark beetles are attacking more than just the trees.
Research conducted outside Steamboat Springs has found that the beetles that have decimated pine and spruce forests throughout the western United States have also inadvertently contributed to the air quality problems that plague much of the region.
Lodgepole pines infested with bark beetles can release 5 to 20 times the amount of gases that can contribute to haze and airborne particulate matter than non-infested trees, according to a study published last week in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.
“When thinking about bark beetle infestations maybe we need to think about not just the forest but what is it going to do to air quality and climate change,” said Kara Huff Hartz, one of the study’s authors, from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she is an assistant professor.
The gases released by the infested trees, called volatile organic compounds, can contribute to the formation of particulate matter air pollution, which can cause human health problems and affect climate change.
Why exactly the infestations result in higher emissions of these volatile organic compounds is still not clear, said Huff Hartz.
One of several possibilities is that when the beetles bore into the bark they are creating a sort of pipeline for the compounds in the tree’s resin to escape into the atmosphere, she said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"It appears that bark beetles are attacking more than just the trees.
Research conducted outside Steamboat Springs has found that the beetles that have decimated pine and spruce forests throughout the western United States have also inadvertently contributed to the air quality problems that plague much of the region.
Lodgepole pines infested with bark beetles can release 5 to 20 times the amount of gases that can contribute to haze and airborne particulate matter than non-infested trees, according to a study published last week in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.
“When thinking about bark beetle infestations maybe we need to think about not just the forest but what is it going to do to air quality and climate change,” said Kara Huff Hartz, one of the study’s authors, from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she is an assistant professor.
The gases released by the infested trees, called volatile organic compounds, can contribute to the formation of particulate matter air pollution, which can cause human health problems and affect climate change.
Why exactly the infestations result in higher emissions of these volatile organic compounds is still not clear, said Huff Hartz.
One of several possibilities is that when the beetles bore into the bark they are creating a sort of pipeline for the compounds in the tree’s resin to escape into the atmosphere, she said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Little Nell brings back private helicopter fly-fishing tours"
Dorothy Atkins:
"For the second year in a row, The Little Nell is offering helicopter service to guests who will pay big bucks to travel to secluded lakes on private land to fly fish.
The program starts at $5,000 per person and offers a helicopter flight to a private ranch where guests fish on a lake and have the option to keep their catch. (Fishing on public lakes and local rivers operate on a catch-and-release basis only.) A chef at the Nell also will cook the guests’ catch lakeside, or at the hotel upon request.
The private company, DBS Helicopters in Basalt, provides air transportation to the locations and the Nell makes private agreements with landowners to use their property for the sport. There are several locations for guests to choose from, including one spot near Meeker and one close to Paonia, said The Little Nell spokesperson Sally Spaulding....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"For the second year in a row, The Little Nell is offering helicopter service to guests who will pay big bucks to travel to secluded lakes on private land to fly fish.
The program starts at $5,000 per person and offers a helicopter flight to a private ranch where guests fish on a lake and have the option to keep their catch. (Fishing on public lakes and local rivers operate on a catch-and-release basis only.) A chef at the Nell also will cook the guests’ catch lakeside, or at the hotel upon request.
The private company, DBS Helicopters in Basalt, provides air transportation to the locations and the Nell makes private agreements with landowners to use their property for the sport. There are several locations for guests to choose from, including one spot near Meeker and one close to Paonia, said The Little Nell spokesperson Sally Spaulding....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Tourism: G20 countries seek to ease visa burdens"
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY —Tourism ministers from G20 countries have made a formal declaration that they’ll seek to ease visa burdens to boost international travel and tourism, seen as a way to potentially add 5 million jobs and generate $206 million in tourism revenue by 2015, according to figures from the World Tourism Organization.
The recently adopted declaration encourages G20 countries to leverage new technologies to make travel “more accessible, convenient and more efficient without a diminution of national security.” It also encourages countries look into increasing cooperation on bilateral, regional and international travel facilitation regimes.
Tourism ministers from G20 countries met May 16 with Mexican President Felipe Calderón to talk about boosting tourism, with Calderón promising that he would deliver the message to the other G20 heads of state.
WTO research shows that, of the 656 million international tourists who visited G20 countries in 2011, 110 million needed a visa, while millions more were deterred from traveling by the cost, waiting time and difficulty of obtaining a visa.
Areas of opportunity for facilitating travel include maximizing the use of information and communication technologies to improvevisa procedures, instituting electronic visa processing and establishing regional agreements for visa facilitation...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"SUMMIT COUNTY —Tourism ministers from G20 countries have made a formal declaration that they’ll seek to ease visa burdens to boost international travel and tourism, seen as a way to potentially add 5 million jobs and generate $206 million in tourism revenue by 2015, according to figures from the World Tourism Organization.
The recently adopted declaration encourages G20 countries to leverage new technologies to make travel “more accessible, convenient and more efficient without a diminution of national security.” It also encourages countries look into increasing cooperation on bilateral, regional and international travel facilitation regimes.
Tourism ministers from G20 countries met May 16 with Mexican President Felipe Calderón to talk about boosting tourism, with Calderón promising that he would deliver the message to the other G20 heads of state.
WTO research shows that, of the 656 million international tourists who visited G20 countries in 2011, 110 million needed a visa, while millions more were deterred from traveling by the cost, waiting time and difficulty of obtaining a visa.
Areas of opportunity for facilitating travel include maximizing the use of information and communication technologies to improvevisa procedures, instituting electronic visa processing and establishing regional agreements for visa facilitation...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "The path back to nature"
Paul Anderson:
"....According to a new book, “2052: A Global Forecast for the Next Forty Years,” the trend toward megacities and unbridled resource extraction will make wild places fewer and competition for them greater.
“Don't teach your children to love the wilderness,” concludes author Jorgen Randers. “By teaching children to love the untouched wilderness, you are teaching them to love what will be increasingly hard to find. Much better then to rear a new generation that find peace, calm and satisfaction in the bustling life of the megacity — with never-ending music piped into their ears.”
As dismaying as this sounds, the historic precedent exists. Two centuries ago, few could foresee the end of the frontier, the buffalo, the passenger pigeon. Did I do a disservice by connecting Tait to a deep affection for the natural world?
I console myself by reasoning that the path of humanity is difficult to plot — that forecasts are often wrong. Perhaps this dim prediction will push the culture in the opposite direction. Perhaps love of life, the “biophilia” Tait has learned, will lead us on the path back to our natural heritage.
Author Larry McMurtry at the beginning of “Lonesome Dove” writes: “All America lies at the end of the wilderness road, and our past is not a dead past, but still lives in us. Our forefathers had civilization inside themselves, the wild outside. We live in the civilization they created, but within us the wilderness still lingers. What they dreamed, we live, and what they lived, we dream.”
Wild nature should be more than a dream. It's up to us parents to make sure that our children can awaken to natural wonder in the real world...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"....According to a new book, “2052: A Global Forecast for the Next Forty Years,” the trend toward megacities and unbridled resource extraction will make wild places fewer and competition for them greater.
“Don't teach your children to love the wilderness,” concludes author Jorgen Randers. “By teaching children to love the untouched wilderness, you are teaching them to love what will be increasingly hard to find. Much better then to rear a new generation that find peace, calm and satisfaction in the bustling life of the megacity — with never-ending music piped into their ears.”
As dismaying as this sounds, the historic precedent exists. Two centuries ago, few could foresee the end of the frontier, the buffalo, the passenger pigeon. Did I do a disservice by connecting Tait to a deep affection for the natural world?
I console myself by reasoning that the path of humanity is difficult to plot — that forecasts are often wrong. Perhaps this dim prediction will push the culture in the opposite direction. Perhaps love of life, the “biophilia” Tait has learned, will lead us on the path back to our natural heritage.
Author Larry McMurtry at the beginning of “Lonesome Dove” writes: “All America lies at the end of the wilderness road, and our past is not a dead past, but still lives in us. Our forefathers had civilization inside themselves, the wild outside. We live in the civilization they created, but within us the wilderness still lingers. What they dreamed, we live, and what they lived, we dream.”
Wild nature should be more than a dream. It's up to us parents to make sure that our children can awaken to natural wonder in the real world...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Morning photo: Summit gallery"
All Credit Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Sometimes I’m amazed at how many reasonably good photos I’ve been able to take within just a few mile radius of our home in Frisco. Even though the scenic backdrop doesn’t change all that much, there is always some new element of light or clouds or reflections that makes the view seen brand new. In the last few days, I’ve picked out a few of my favorites and created a brand new gallery at my Imagekind site exclusively with Summit Country landscape shots. I hope you’ll check it out, perhaps buy a print (you can also preview and order them with different mattes and frames) and pass the info along to your friends. The gallery is online here."
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Sometimes I’m amazed at how many reasonably good photos I’ve been able to take within just a few mile radius of our home in Frisco. Even though the scenic backdrop doesn’t change all that much, there is always some new element of light or clouds or reflections that makes the view seen brand new. In the last few days, I’ve picked out a few of my favorites and created a brand new gallery at my Imagekind site exclusively with Summit Country landscape shots. I hope you’ll check it out, perhaps buy a print (you can also preview and order them with different mattes and frames) and pass the info along to your friends. The gallery is online here."
May 27, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Craig Daily Press "Mitt Romney … meet Craig, America "
Bridget Manley, Jerry Martin and Joe Moylan:
"Frank Moe, owner of Deer Park Inn and Suites in Craig, sent Mitt Romney's presidential campaign a video earlier this year produced by Energy America.
The video, titled "The Perfect Storm Over Craig, Colorado," highlighted the community's economic dependence on the energy industry.
Along with the video was an invitation from Moe to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee to visit Craig.
"We (thought) this would be a good place for him to make the point that he is (in favor of) all forms of energy," Moe said.
On Thursday, Romney staffers called Moe and said the campaign was considering Craig as a campaign stop.
The trip was booked Friday. Romney spokeswoman Sarah Pompei said the former Massachusetts governor will appear for a public event at 9 a.m. Tuesday downtown.
It's believed the location will be Alice Pleasant Park.
Additional details of the visit could be released this weekend, Pompei said.
"When the Romney campaign called us, tears rushed over us because now Craig has the opportunity to tell its story to the entire nation," an emotional Moe said Friday night. "We all need to stand up and make our voices heard that energy can be done and done right."
Craig City Manager Jim Ferree said he and Craig Police Chief Walt Vanatta are scheduled to meet with Secret Service agents today to discuss the pending visit.
Two members of the Romney team are currently in Craig preparing for the event, Ferree said.
The local visit won't be without its challenges.
"They're looking to set up in Alice Pleasant Park, which presents some logistical concerns with Grand Olde West Days wrapping up Monday and closing down the highway, but we're going to work through it and make it happen," Ferree said. "This is a good thing for the town and for Moffat County."...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Frank Moe, owner of Deer Park Inn and Suites in Craig, sent Mitt Romney's presidential campaign a video earlier this year produced by Energy America.
The video, titled "The Perfect Storm Over Craig, Colorado," highlighted the community's economic dependence on the energy industry.
Along with the video was an invitation from Moe to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee to visit Craig.
"We (thought) this would be a good place for him to make the point that he is (in favor of) all forms of energy," Moe said.
On Thursday, Romney staffers called Moe and said the campaign was considering Craig as a campaign stop.
The trip was booked Friday. Romney spokeswoman Sarah Pompei said the former Massachusetts governor will appear for a public event at 9 a.m. Tuesday downtown.
It's believed the location will be Alice Pleasant Park.
Additional details of the visit could be released this weekend, Pompei said.
"When the Romney campaign called us, tears rushed over us because now Craig has the opportunity to tell its story to the entire nation," an emotional Moe said Friday night. "We all need to stand up and make our voices heard that energy can be done and done right."
Craig City Manager Jim Ferree said he and Craig Police Chief Walt Vanatta are scheduled to meet with Secret Service agents today to discuss the pending visit.
Two members of the Romney team are currently in Craig preparing for the event, Ferree said.
The local visit won't be without its challenges.
"They're looking to set up in Alice Pleasant Park, which presents some logistical concerns with Grand Olde West Days wrapping up Monday and closing down the highway, but we're going to work through it and make it happen," Ferree said. "This is a good thing for the town and for Moffat County."...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Newsmax "Rating Agencies Warn Further Downgrade Without Deficit Plan"
Newsmax Wires:
"Rating agencies say they need to be convinced that lawmakers have a real plan in the works to reduce the growing debt if the nation is to avert future downgrades, according to a report by The Hill.
“If Congress doesn’t put in place a process that assures people that this will be addressed in a real manner . . . then there is no doubt in my mind that our sovereign debt will be downgraded,” said Steve Bell, the senior director of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center. “Markets throughout the world are going to be looking at the action of the United States government.”
“It’s highly uncertain . . . because of the political circumstances,” said Steven Hess, Moody’s lead analyst for U.S. ratings. “Our stance at this point is to wait and see.”
“We’d have to assess the actual content of any temporary agreement,” Hess added. “How likely is it that that will require a credible plan to be implemented within whatever time frame they come up with? It’s the actual deficit and debt trajectories that we expect that will be the most important determinant.”
Fitch and Moody’s have both put the United States on notice that future downgrades are coming without a change in course. Furthermore, Fitch identified 2013 as a crucial year for the United States to take action on its debt. Currently, it sees better-than-even odds that it will downgrade the United States.
Senator Tom Coburn, R-Okla., a member of the Simpson-Bowles debt commission and a long time spending hawk, agrees with the findings.
“We’re going to get another downgrade. I can tell you right now. You can have a great legal case for suing the rating agencies for not downgrading us again because we have not demonstrated the political will to solve the problems,” he said in a recent interview with Bob Schieffer for CBS’s Face to Face.
Coburn argues that last year’s downgrade of the nation’s credit rating from AAA to AA+ by the ratings agency Standard and Poor’s was just the beginning, according to the CBS report. The agency made its decision just days after congress passed an 11th hour compromise to raise the nation’s debt ceiling.
Standard and Poor’s in a statement at that time said it was “pessimistic about the capacity of Congress and the Administration to be able to leverage their agreement this week into a broader fiscal consolidation plan that stabilizes the government’s debt dynamics any time soon.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Rating agencies say they need to be convinced that lawmakers have a real plan in the works to reduce the growing debt if the nation is to avert future downgrades, according to a report by The Hill.
“If Congress doesn’t put in place a process that assures people that this will be addressed in a real manner . . . then there is no doubt in my mind that our sovereign debt will be downgraded,” said Steve Bell, the senior director of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center. “Markets throughout the world are going to be looking at the action of the United States government.”
“It’s highly uncertain . . . because of the political circumstances,” said Steven Hess, Moody’s lead analyst for U.S. ratings. “Our stance at this point is to wait and see.”
“We’d have to assess the actual content of any temporary agreement,” Hess added. “How likely is it that that will require a credible plan to be implemented within whatever time frame they come up with? It’s the actual deficit and debt trajectories that we expect that will be the most important determinant.”
Fitch and Moody’s have both put the United States on notice that future downgrades are coming without a change in course. Furthermore, Fitch identified 2013 as a crucial year for the United States to take action on its debt. Currently, it sees better-than-even odds that it will downgrade the United States.
Senator Tom Coburn, R-Okla., a member of the Simpson-Bowles debt commission and a long time spending hawk, agrees with the findings.
“We’re going to get another downgrade. I can tell you right now. You can have a great legal case for suing the rating agencies for not downgrading us again because we have not demonstrated the political will to solve the problems,” he said in a recent interview with Bob Schieffer for CBS’s Face to Face.
Coburn argues that last year’s downgrade of the nation’s credit rating from AAA to AA+ by the ratings agency Standard and Poor’s was just the beginning, according to the CBS report. The agency made its decision just days after congress passed an 11th hour compromise to raise the nation’s debt ceiling.
Standard and Poor’s in a statement at that time said it was “pessimistic about the capacity of Congress and the Administration to be able to leverage their agreement this week into a broader fiscal consolidation plan that stabilizes the government’s debt dynamics any time soon.”...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Steamboat Today "Our View: At 1st glance, Shell impresses"
Steamboat Today Editorial Board:
"Shell Oil is yet to have its first public hearing on its first proposed exploratory well in Routt County, but the encouraging impression the company made during a community open house last week should serve as an example for other energy operators seeking to do business here.
We’re not naive. Shell is a huge multinational corporation sophisticated enough to know it must connect with the communities where it seeks to drill for oil. But that doesn’t mean we can’t be grateful for the manner in which the company appears to be conducting its business in Northwest Colorado.
During a midday event Wednesday at the Steamboat Springs Community Center, Shell executive Matt Holman and a team of 15 company employees representing many facets of its operations matter-of-factly described their plans for Northwest Colorado. Holman made his company’s intent crystal clear — they want Routt County to allow Shell to drill three exploratory wells this year — while also clearly stating their intent to obey all 60 oil and gas permit guidelines adopted by the county....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Shell Oil is yet to have its first public hearing on its first proposed exploratory well in Routt County, but the encouraging impression the company made during a community open house last week should serve as an example for other energy operators seeking to do business here.
We’re not naive. Shell is a huge multinational corporation sophisticated enough to know it must connect with the communities where it seeks to drill for oil. But that doesn’t mean we can’t be grateful for the manner in which the company appears to be conducting its business in Northwest Colorado.
During a midday event Wednesday at the Steamboat Springs Community Center, Shell executive Matt Holman and a team of 15 company employees representing many facets of its operations matter-of-factly described their plans for Northwest Colorado. Holman made his company’s intent crystal clear — they want Routt County to allow Shell to drill three exploratory wells this year — while also clearly stating their intent to obey all 60 oil and gas permit guidelines adopted by the county....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Owning the town comes with a price"
Dave Danforth:
"An Aspen developer felt he had to deny an open space ranger’s report that the developer swore he’d get the ranger fired after receiving a $100 ticket for trespassing on a closed trail.
Usually when someone denies an account written up by law enforcement, they take issue with a fact or two. But Nikos Hecht simply denied the whole thing. The April 7 episode, featuring an (allegedly) irate Hecht who claimed he’d contributed to saving open space, never happened, Hecht said.
Hecht eventually paid the ticket. Whatever his attitude towards the ranger, the (alleged) adventure raises an interesting question. Is there a limit to the number of people who can suggest that they own the town?
If wealthy folks are willing to pay up for a little special treatment, do we really have a beef with that? Why not accommodate them? Hecht’s (alleged) behavior is simply an example of a well-heeled citizen wondering why, in view of his wealth or stature, he isn’t owed a little slack......
.......Yet there’s a phalanx of others who think they’re due a little extra respect not because of lifetime achievement, but because of lifetime wealth.
It wouldn’t be entirely facetious to simply accommodate them. Instead of making developers crawl through all sorts of twists and turns requiring a band of experts (lobbyists), let’s grease the skids a bit. For a lofty contribution to the right cause, (Open space? Employee housing? A few park benches? Free jazz?) couldn’t they just buy the fast track and get it over with? They’re going to get the same result anyway.
We’ve given unparalleled power to a band of meter enforcers, whose sole job is to raise revenue for City Hall. Instead of making esteemed citizens feel like crooks, why not sell them a season pass? Now, for a discount, we’d get a 10-pack of violations. We’d feel entitled...........
...........So, who owns Aspen? First and foremost, the true candidate will never be caught dead proclaiming such stature. They don’t have to. (Think Klaus Obermeyer). And, in an ideal world, the next open space ranger who runs into the next (alleged) Nikos Hecht will have a “square” (credit card swiper) in order to dispense a little favor on the spot for a well-earned premium payment..."
(Read more? You should. Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"An Aspen developer felt he had to deny an open space ranger’s report that the developer swore he’d get the ranger fired after receiving a $100 ticket for trespassing on a closed trail.
Usually when someone denies an account written up by law enforcement, they take issue with a fact or two. But Nikos Hecht simply denied the whole thing. The April 7 episode, featuring an (allegedly) irate Hecht who claimed he’d contributed to saving open space, never happened, Hecht said.
Hecht eventually paid the ticket. Whatever his attitude towards the ranger, the (alleged) adventure raises an interesting question. Is there a limit to the number of people who can suggest that they own the town?
If wealthy folks are willing to pay up for a little special treatment, do we really have a beef with that? Why not accommodate them? Hecht’s (alleged) behavior is simply an example of a well-heeled citizen wondering why, in view of his wealth or stature, he isn’t owed a little slack......
.......Yet there’s a phalanx of others who think they’re due a little extra respect not because of lifetime achievement, but because of lifetime wealth.
It wouldn’t be entirely facetious to simply accommodate them. Instead of making developers crawl through all sorts of twists and turns requiring a band of experts (lobbyists), let’s grease the skids a bit. For a lofty contribution to the right cause, (Open space? Employee housing? A few park benches? Free jazz?) couldn’t they just buy the fast track and get it over with? They’re going to get the same result anyway.
We’ve given unparalleled power to a band of meter enforcers, whose sole job is to raise revenue for City Hall. Instead of making esteemed citizens feel like crooks, why not sell them a season pass? Now, for a discount, we’d get a 10-pack of violations. We’d feel entitled...........
...........So, who owns Aspen? First and foremost, the true candidate will never be caught dead proclaiming such stature. They don’t have to. (Think Klaus Obermeyer). And, in an ideal world, the next open space ranger who runs into the next (alleged) Nikos Hecht will have a “square” (credit card swiper) in order to dispense a little favor on the spot for a well-earned premium payment..."
(Read more? You should. Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Denver Post "Colorado Adventure Center a model for all-in-one outdoor attraction"
Jason Blevins:
"DUMONT — Facing yet another challenging year for whitewater rafting, two veteran Colorado outfitters have joined forces to create a company that is moving well beyond boats.
With its five whitewater options, three biking excursions and two zipline courses between Glenwood Springs and Idaho Springs — including Colorado's longest tower zipline complex, over Clear Creek — the new Colorado Adventure Center represents the growing model for all-in-one adventure shopping....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"DUMONT — Facing yet another challenging year for whitewater rafting, two veteran Colorado outfitters have joined forces to create a company that is moving well beyond boats.
With its five whitewater options, three biking excursions and two zipline courses between Glenwood Springs and Idaho Springs — including Colorado's longest tower zipline complex, over Clear Creek — the new Colorado Adventure Center represents the growing model for all-in-one adventure shopping....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Wilderness gone wild"
Carolyn Sackariason:
"There are so many people attempting to seek solitude in the Colorado wilderness that it’s no longer possible to find it in certain areas, and that has U.S. Forest Service officials wondering whether it’s time to limit visitor use.
Take the case of Conundrum Hot Springs, where there can be as many as 120 people camping there on any given summer night.
An assessment by the Forest Service showed that there is human waste at nearly all of the campsites there, resulting in fecal coliform in the hot springs.
Conundrum is the second most popular overnight destination in the Maroon Bells/Snowmass Wilderness, behind Crater Lake where tens of thousands of people visit each year.
This two-mile hike is undertaken by hordes of tourists, peak baggers, day hikers and backpackers from all over the world; it provides access to three Colorado fourteeners, and is along the popular 4-Pass-Loop.
“Solitude is not an option on the hike to Crater Lake,” reads a statement in the Forest Service’s “Assessment of Visitor Use and Resource Conditions” of the 10 highest-use destinations in the wilderness area.
Even though Snowmass Lake is eight miles from the Snowmass Creek trailhead and seven miles from Crater Lake via Buckskin Pass, it is the third most popular destination in the wilderness area.
Thousands of people go there each summer, resulting in massive degradation of the wilderness with bandit campsites, human waste and tree damage caused by people collecting firewood — despite that fires aren’t allowed there...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"There are so many people attempting to seek solitude in the Colorado wilderness that it’s no longer possible to find it in certain areas, and that has U.S. Forest Service officials wondering whether it’s time to limit visitor use.
Take the case of Conundrum Hot Springs, where there can be as many as 120 people camping there on any given summer night.
An assessment by the Forest Service showed that there is human waste at nearly all of the campsites there, resulting in fecal coliform in the hot springs.
Conundrum is the second most popular overnight destination in the Maroon Bells/Snowmass Wilderness, behind Crater Lake where tens of thousands of people visit each year.
This two-mile hike is undertaken by hordes of tourists, peak baggers, day hikers and backpackers from all over the world; it provides access to three Colorado fourteeners, and is along the popular 4-Pass-Loop.
“Solitude is not an option on the hike to Crater Lake,” reads a statement in the Forest Service’s “Assessment of Visitor Use and Resource Conditions” of the 10 highest-use destinations in the wilderness area.
Even though Snowmass Lake is eight miles from the Snowmass Creek trailhead and seven miles from Crater Lake via Buckskin Pass, it is the third most popular destination in the wilderness area.
Thousands of people go there each summer, resulting in massive degradation of the wilderness with bandit campsites, human waste and tree damage caused by people collecting firewood — despite that fires aren’t allowed there...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice " Morning photo: Last snow? Probably not"
All credit Bob Berwyn (Click title):
May 26, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Delta County Independent "Deputies are true heroes "
Kathy Browning:
"On April 19, around 11:30 p.m., Hotchkiss deputies Chad Lloyd and Gates Shaklee were called to a structure fire at 260 East Orchard Street.
Marshal Dan Miller learned about the bravery of his two deputies the morning after the fire from Hotchkiss Fire Chief Doug Fritz.
At the May 10 Hotchkiss Town Council meeting Miller, Fritz and Mayor Wendell Koontz spoke about the incident during a ceremony where the deputies' valor was recognized.
The deputies entered the apartment which was engulfed with flames and smoke, Miller said. They attempted but were unable to extinguish the blaze.
Lloyd and Shaklee went into the apartment on their hands and knees to locate the victim, Jerry Bledsoe. They were able to pull him to safety from the bathroom. Bledsoe was later flown to Greeley to receive treatment for his critical burns.
"The atmosphere in that apartment was immediately hazardous to their health and safety. They disregarded that and went in, exemplifying some of the highest examples we expect out of our public servants," said Hotchkiss Fire Chief Doug Fritz. "I can tell you that people in our community who are older and disabled are at much greater risk of horrible death by fire. Gates and Chad prevented that. We owe them a lot of admiration, and we are pretty proud to be working with them."
Because of their bravery, Lloyd and Shaklee were awarded Medals of Valor and letters of commendation..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"On April 19, around 11:30 p.m., Hotchkiss deputies Chad Lloyd and Gates Shaklee were called to a structure fire at 260 East Orchard Street.
Marshal Dan Miller learned about the bravery of his two deputies the morning after the fire from Hotchkiss Fire Chief Doug Fritz.
At the May 10 Hotchkiss Town Council meeting Miller, Fritz and Mayor Wendell Koontz spoke about the incident during a ceremony where the deputies' valor was recognized.
The deputies entered the apartment which was engulfed with flames and smoke, Miller said. They attempted but were unable to extinguish the blaze.
Lloyd and Shaklee went into the apartment on their hands and knees to locate the victim, Jerry Bledsoe. They were able to pull him to safety from the bathroom. Bledsoe was later flown to Greeley to receive treatment for his critical burns.
"The atmosphere in that apartment was immediately hazardous to their health and safety. They disregarded that and went in, exemplifying some of the highest examples we expect out of our public servants," said Hotchkiss Fire Chief Doug Fritz. "I can tell you that people in our community who are older and disabled are at much greater risk of horrible death by fire. Gates and Chad prevented that. We owe them a lot of admiration, and we are pretty proud to be working with them."
Because of their bravery, Lloyd and Shaklee were awarded Medals of Valor and letters of commendation..." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Garfield Public Info "GARFIELD COUNTY ALL HAZARDS RESPONSE TEAM SILENT AUCTION AND FUNDRAISER"
GARFIELD COUNTY:
"The All Hazard Response Team (AHRT) is a multi-agency group within Garfield County, Colorado. AHRT not only serves Garfield County, but also the entire Northwest Region of Colorado. Currently, the five member agencies of ARHT include: the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, Glenwood Springs Police Department, Glenwood Springs Fire Department, Rifle Police Department and the Silt Police Department. AHRT is currently commanded by Undersheriff Colt Cornelius.
Each year AHRT competes nationally in order to maintain their skills and knowledge. The Tactical Team competes in the United States National SWAT championships, whereas the Crisis Negotiation Team competes in Crisis Negotiation championships. Along with the trainings and competitions, AHRT regularly participates in community events with the intention of educating the public on the All Hazards Response Team functions.
The All Hazards Response Team obtains their necessary tools and equipment through donation assistance, federal grants and cost sharing through various local organizations. The team employs a wide range of equipment, including the LENCO BearCat and the “Green Machine”...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
ALL HAZARDSRESPONSE TEAM
Saturday , July 14, 2012
12:00 P.M. — 3:00 P.M.
"The All Hazard Response Team (AHRT) is a multi-agency group within Garfield County, Colorado. AHRT not only serves Garfield County, but also the entire Northwest Region of Colorado. Currently, the five member agencies of ARHT include: the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, Glenwood Springs Police Department, Glenwood Springs Fire Department, Rifle Police Department and the Silt Police Department. AHRT is currently commanded by Undersheriff Colt Cornelius.
Each year AHRT competes nationally in order to maintain their skills and knowledge. The Tactical Team competes in the United States National SWAT championships, whereas the Crisis Negotiation Team competes in Crisis Negotiation championships. Along with the trainings and competitions, AHRT regularly participates in community events with the intention of educating the public on the All Hazards Response Team functions.
The All Hazards Response Team obtains their necessary tools and equipment through donation assistance, federal grants and cost sharing through various local organizations. The team employs a wide range of equipment, including the LENCO BearCat and the “Green Machine”...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Garfield Public Info "WHALE (We Have A Little Emergency)"
Garfield County Sheriff:
"The WHALE program (We Have A Little Emergency) is an identification and information package for child car safety seats.
The first program of its kind in theUnited States, WHALE is currently used in 32 states and soon nationwide. It requires the use of four self-adhesive stickers and one information label.
One information label attached to the rear of the car seat provides important information about that child in the seat, such as name, date of birth, medical history, and who to contact in case of emergency. Two WHALE Car Seat Stickers attach to the sides of the safety seat and two WHALE Vehicle Stickers attach to the rear side widows of the vehicle help depict the WHALE logo and alert rescuers that the vehicle occupants participate in the program.
The WHALE program is a simple and viable way to ensure proper and efficient treatment of children in the event of an automobile accident.
We feel this program will relieve some of the frustration rescuers feel while trying to obtain information about a child in a car safety seat at the scene of an automobile accident. It also saves valuable time when injuries are involved. The WHALE program can make a difference, but its success depends on you...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"The WHALE program (We Have A Little Emergency) is an identification and information package for child car safety seats.
The first program of its kind in theUnited States, WHALE is currently used in 32 states and soon nationwide. It requires the use of four self-adhesive stickers and one information label.
One information label attached to the rear of the car seat provides important information about that child in the seat, such as name, date of birth, medical history, and who to contact in case of emergency. Two WHALE Car Seat Stickers attach to the sides of the safety seat and two WHALE Vehicle Stickers attach to the rear side widows of the vehicle help depict the WHALE logo and alert rescuers that the vehicle occupants participate in the program.
The WHALE program is a simple and viable way to ensure proper and efficient treatment of children in the event of an automobile accident.
We feel this program will relieve some of the frustration rescuers feel while trying to obtain information about a child in a car safety seat at the scene of an automobile accident. It also saves valuable time when injuries are involved. The WHALE program can make a difference, but its success depends on you...."
(Read original release? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Grand Junction Daily Sentinel "Feds review fatal shooting by trooper"
Paul Shockley:
"Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger said Friday he has sent records of Mesa County’s probe into the 2010 shooting death of Jason Kemp to the U.S. Department of Justice for a possible criminal civil rights investigation.
“I don’t think it’s proper of me to advocate or push for a particular decision by the U.S. attorney,” Hautzinger said, when asked about the chances of federal prosecutors or the FBI agreeing to take up the case.
“I’ve referred to them what I have. What they do with it is entirely up to them,” he said.
Hautzinger said he sent to federal prosecutors transcripts covering a Mesa County grand jury’s 2010 investigation into Kemp’s shooting on July 20, 2010, which followed a confrontation at the front door of Kemp’s home at 103 Glade Park Road, Unit B, with a pair of Colorado State Patrol troopers.
“I contacted the U.S. attorney at the request of (Kemp’s) family earlier this week, after I told the family I’d decided to dismiss,” Hautzinger said, referring to his decision Friday to drop criminal charges against Colorado State Patrol Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Hautzinger said the grand jury transcripts were sent at the request of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Jeff Dorschner, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Denver, confirmed contact with Hautzinger’s office on Kemp’s case and the receipt of documents “for our review.”
Dorschner declined to characterize the purpose or scope of the review and declined further comment on the matter....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger said Friday he has sent records of Mesa County’s probe into the 2010 shooting death of Jason Kemp to the U.S. Department of Justice for a possible criminal civil rights investigation.
“I don’t think it’s proper of me to advocate or push for a particular decision by the U.S. attorney,” Hautzinger said, when asked about the chances of federal prosecutors or the FBI agreeing to take up the case.
“I’ve referred to them what I have. What they do with it is entirely up to them,” he said.
Hautzinger said he sent to federal prosecutors transcripts covering a Mesa County grand jury’s 2010 investigation into Kemp’s shooting on July 20, 2010, which followed a confrontation at the front door of Kemp’s home at 103 Glade Park Road, Unit B, with a pair of Colorado State Patrol troopers.
“I contacted the U.S. attorney at the request of (Kemp’s) family earlier this week, after I told the family I’d decided to dismiss,” Hautzinger said, referring to his decision Friday to drop criminal charges against Colorado State Patrol Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Hautzinger said the grand jury transcripts were sent at the request of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Jeff Dorschner, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Denver, confirmed contact with Hautzinger’s office on Kemp’s case and the receipt of documents “for our review.”
Dorschner declined to characterize the purpose or scope of the review and declined further comment on the matter....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: RealVail " USOC, IOC deal clears path for possible 2022 Colorado Winter Olympic bid"
David O. Williams:
"A huge hurdle facing a Colorado 2022 Winter Olympic bid was cleared today when the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) resolved a long-running and bitter revenue-sharing dispute.
USOC official will reportedly meet next month to determine whether the United States, which has not hosted the Games since 2002 in Salt Lake City, should submit a bid for the 2022 Winter Games or the 2024 Summer Games.
Denver and potential ski-resort venues throughout Colorado, including Vail and Beaver Creek, would be among the frontrunners for a potential 2022 bid. Other cities that have expressed interest include Salt Lake, Reno and Bozeman, Mont.
"A huge hurdle facing a Colorado 2022 Winter Olympic bid was cleared today when the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) resolved a long-running and bitter revenue-sharing dispute.
USOC official will reportedly meet next month to determine whether the United States, which has not hosted the Games since 2002 in Salt Lake City, should submit a bid for the 2022 Winter Games or the 2024 Summer Games.
Denver and potential ski-resort venues throughout Colorado, including Vail and Beaver Creek, would be among the frontrunners for a potential 2022 bid. Other cities that have expressed interest include Salt Lake, Reno and Bozeman, Mont.
Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock released a joint statement on today’s developments...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "Out for themselves"
Terrific column this week from Tony Vagneur. Up on the Aspen Times.
Tony Vagneur:
"Speaking of papers, a recent story indicated that there was a big flap earlier in the year up around Radar Road in Skyline Park (formerly the Droste property) about some people ignoring closed signs to take a preseason gander at the flora and fauna.
Apparently, one of those receiving a ticket for violating the closure was some developer who felt a certain sense of entitlement about his egregiousness, based on the proximity of his house to the area and some real or imagined beneficence he'd granted to Pitkin County Open Space and Trails in its acquisition of the property. Never mind that his exercise of a perceived sense of privilege might have caused a cow elk to abort her calf or created other havoc in the local herd. To top it off, no sooner had an official trail ranger engaged the developer in a conversation about the seriousness of the transgression, the image of a mountain biker appeared from the closed area, adding insult to the entire illiterate escapade.
You can rest assured that no contingent of aggrieved elk, distressed that their once-private calving grounds are now being disrespected by people who should know better, will petition the powers that be for relief. That must come from those among us who sometimes fail to acknowledge personal responsibility....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Tony Vagneur:
"Speaking of papers, a recent story indicated that there was a big flap earlier in the year up around Radar Road in Skyline Park (formerly the Droste property) about some people ignoring closed signs to take a preseason gander at the flora and fauna.
Apparently, one of those receiving a ticket for violating the closure was some developer who felt a certain sense of entitlement about his egregiousness, based on the proximity of his house to the area and some real or imagined beneficence he'd granted to Pitkin County Open Space and Trails in its acquisition of the property. Never mind that his exercise of a perceived sense of privilege might have caused a cow elk to abort her calf or created other havoc in the local herd. To top it off, no sooner had an official trail ranger engaged the developer in a conversation about the seriousness of the transgression, the image of a mountain biker appeared from the closed area, adding insult to the entire illiterate escapade.
You can rest assured that no contingent of aggrieved elk, distressed that their once-private calving grounds are now being disrespected by people who should know better, will petition the powers that be for relief. That must come from those among us who sometimes fail to acknowledge personal responsibility....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Seagrasses vital to sequestering atmospheric carbon"
Bob Berwyn:
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Coral reefs may get all the glory when it comes to biodiversity, but new research shows that relatively unsung seagrass communities may play a vital role in sequestering atmospheric carbon.
Any carbon that’s not in the atmosphere means it’s not trapping heat, so cultivating and protecting existing coastal seagrass communities could be a vital part of the solution to climate change, according to the first global analysis of carbon storage in seagrass.
The results of the study suggest that seagrass meadows can store up to twice as much carbon as the world’s temperate and tropical forests — up to 83,000 metric tons of carbon per square kilometer, mostly in the soils beneath them, as compared to typical terrestrial forests, which store about 30,000 metric tons per square kilometer, most of which is in the form of wood.
The research also estimates that, although seagrass meadows occupy less than 0.2 percent of the world’s oceans, they are responsible for more than 10 percent of all carbon buried annually in the sea.
“Seagrasses only take up a small percentage of global coastal area, but this assessment shows that they’re a dynamic ecosystem for carbon transformation,” said James Fourqurean, the lead author of the paper and a scientist at Florida International University and the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Florida Coastal Everglades Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site.
The Florida Coastal Everglades LTER site is one of 26 such NSF LTER sites around the world in ecosystems from forests to tundra, coral reefs to barrier islands.
“Seagrasses have the unique ability to continue to store carbon in their roots and soil in coastal seas,” said Fourqurean. “We found places where seagrass beds have been storing carbon for thousands of years.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"SUMMIT COUNTY — Coral reefs may get all the glory when it comes to biodiversity, but new research shows that relatively unsung seagrass communities may play a vital role in sequestering atmospheric carbon.
Any carbon that’s not in the atmosphere means it’s not trapping heat, so cultivating and protecting existing coastal seagrass communities could be a vital part of the solution to climate change, according to the first global analysis of carbon storage in seagrass.
The results of the study suggest that seagrass meadows can store up to twice as much carbon as the world’s temperate and tropical forests — up to 83,000 metric tons of carbon per square kilometer, mostly in the soils beneath them, as compared to typical terrestrial forests, which store about 30,000 metric tons per square kilometer, most of which is in the form of wood.
The research also estimates that, although seagrass meadows occupy less than 0.2 percent of the world’s oceans, they are responsible for more than 10 percent of all carbon buried annually in the sea.
“Seagrasses only take up a small percentage of global coastal area, but this assessment shows that they’re a dynamic ecosystem for carbon transformation,” said James Fourqurean, the lead author of the paper and a scientist at Florida International University and the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Florida Coastal Everglades Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site.
The Florida Coastal Everglades LTER site is one of 26 such NSF LTER sites around the world in ecosystems from forests to tundra, coral reefs to barrier islands.
“Seagrasses have the unique ability to continue to store carbon in their roots and soil in coastal seas,” said Fourqurean. “We found places where seagrass beds have been storing carbon for thousands of years.”...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "On the fly: Offseason delight"
Kirk Webb:
"BASALT — As of late, anglers have been few and far between on the normally bustling Fryingpan River. Believe it or not, May is the second slowest month of the year in terms of fishing pressure.
As hard as it to believe, there are more fishermen spread out along the river in December and January than there are in May. Don't let this fact fool you, though, as the fishing is pretty incredible right now. I can personally attest to that.
While driving along the 14-mile length of river between downtown Basalt and Ruedi Reservoir recently, I counted only 10 anglers, half of whom were strung out in the Toilet Bowl near the dam. With water flows hovering around 100 cubic feet per second, the fishing opportunities for anglers are supurb. Wading is easy and safe at these levels and the dry fly fishing has been sensational.
Good midge and blue-wing olive hatches are the norm along the river from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Generally speaking, look for fish to focus on midges during the first half of that time frame while the back half of that period is more blue-wing olive-oriented. With the low and clear water, dry-fly fishers will still want to utilize light tippets of 7x fluorocarbon. Even when nymph fishing, I still prefer to use 6x tippets to attach my first fly and 7x tippet to connect my dropper or second fly.
When dry-fly fishing on the Fryingpan, you'll want to cast downstream to the rising fish. This will allow the fish to see your fly first, instead of fly line, leader, tippet and then your fly. This trick especially comes into play when working over smart or pressured fish. The heaviest hatches have been taking place along the middle and upper river, from mile markers 8 to 12....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"BASALT — As of late, anglers have been few and far between on the normally bustling Fryingpan River. Believe it or not, May is the second slowest month of the year in terms of fishing pressure.
As hard as it to believe, there are more fishermen spread out along the river in December and January than there are in May. Don't let this fact fool you, though, as the fishing is pretty incredible right now. I can personally attest to that.
While driving along the 14-mile length of river between downtown Basalt and Ruedi Reservoir recently, I counted only 10 anglers, half of whom were strung out in the Toilet Bowl near the dam. With water flows hovering around 100 cubic feet per second, the fishing opportunities for anglers are supurb. Wading is easy and safe at these levels and the dry fly fishing has been sensational.
Good midge and blue-wing olive hatches are the norm along the river from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Generally speaking, look for fish to focus on midges during the first half of that time frame while the back half of that period is more blue-wing olive-oriented. With the low and clear water, dry-fly fishers will still want to utilize light tippets of 7x fluorocarbon. Even when nymph fishing, I still prefer to use 6x tippets to attach my first fly and 7x tippet to connect my dropper or second fly.
When dry-fly fishing on the Fryingpan, you'll want to cast downstream to the rising fish. This will allow the fish to see your fly first, instead of fly line, leader, tippet and then your fly. This trick especially comes into play when working over smart or pressured fish. The heaviest hatches have been taking place along the middle and upper river, from mile markers 8 to 12....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Steamboat Today "Romney to visit Craig on Tuesday"
Remember not too long ago when the Garfield County Republicans and the Glenwood Springs Post Independent mocked the idea that any big candidate would hit the rural parts of the Western Slope of Colorado?
Remember how that made conservatives in the area feel, that extra-large dose of good 'ol boys and girls club arrogance?
All common folk Frank Moe, up in Craig had to do was send a video to the Romney team.
Mitt Romney will be in Craig on Tuesday. If he's lucky, there won't be any GarCo GOP on hand for a photo op. Well.....probably not. Press and photo ops are pretty much the only thing GarCo GOP can be counted on to do repeatedly and well.
Here's to you, Frank Moe and all the folks up in Moffat County!
via Craig Daily Press and Steamboat Today:
"Craig — Frank Moe, owner of Deer Park Inn and Suites in Craig, sent Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign a video earlier this year produced by Energy America.
The video, titled “The Perfect Storm Over Craig, Colorado,” highlighted the community’s economic dependence on the energy industry.
Along with the video was an invitation from Moe to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee to visit Craig.
“We (thought) this would be a good place for him to make the point that he is (in favor of) all forms of energy,” Moe said.
On Thursday, Romney staffers called Moe and said the campaign was considering Craig as a campaign stop.
The trip was booked Friday.
Romney spokeswoman Sarah Pompei said the former Massachusetts governor will appear for a public event at 9 a.m. Tuesday downtown. Additional visit details could be released this weekend, Pompei said.
“When the Romney campaign called us, tears rushed over us because now Craig has the opportunity to tell its story to the entire nation,” an emotional Moe said Friday night...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
Remember how that made conservatives in the area feel, that extra-large dose of good 'ol boys and girls club arrogance?
All common folk Frank Moe, up in Craig had to do was send a video to the Romney team.
Mitt Romney will be in Craig on Tuesday. If he's lucky, there won't be any GarCo GOP on hand for a photo op. Well.....probably not. Press and photo ops are pretty much the only thing GarCo GOP can be counted on to do repeatedly and well.
Here's to you, Frank Moe and all the folks up in Moffat County!
via Craig Daily Press and Steamboat Today:
"Craig — Frank Moe, owner of Deer Park Inn and Suites in Craig, sent Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign a video earlier this year produced by Energy America.
The video, titled “The Perfect Storm Over Craig, Colorado,” highlighted the community’s economic dependence on the energy industry.
Along with the video was an invitation from Moe to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee to visit Craig.
“We (thought) this would be a good place for him to make the point that he is (in favor of) all forms of energy,” Moe said.
On Thursday, Romney staffers called Moe and said the campaign was considering Craig as a campaign stop.
The trip was booked Friday.
Romney spokeswoman Sarah Pompei said the former Massachusetts governor will appear for a public event at 9 a.m. Tuesday downtown. Additional visit details could be released this weekend, Pompei said.
“When the Romney campaign called us, tears rushed over us because now Craig has the opportunity to tell its story to the entire nation,” an emotional Moe said Friday night...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident."
SandBoxBlogs: Red State "Electoral implications of the Obama Administration’s War on Coal "
Moe Lane Diary:
"…which shows the top sixteen coal-producing states in the USA. There’s a total of 182 Electoral Votes at stake, there – and in 2008 there were 180. Obama actually won coal-producing states in 2008, 100 to 80; and if no states flip in November, he’ll win them, 96 to 86. Except that… states are going to flip.
Indiana’s already gone; and of the remaining six Obama states only New Mexico and Illinois are not considered toss-ups. The administration’s relentless hostility towards coal production and use may have already contributed to Democratic electoral disaster: since Obama took office the state governments and legislatures of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia have all been taken over by Republicans; in Colorado we flipped the House of Representatives; and in New Mexico we captured the governorship. Heck, we even gained seats in the Illinois legislature, and came very close to winning the governorship.
The question is, is it fair to wonder whether coal will make things worse for the Democrats? I think so....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"…which shows the top sixteen coal-producing states in the USA. There’s a total of 182 Electoral Votes at stake, there – and in 2008 there were 180. Obama actually won coal-producing states in 2008, 100 to 80; and if no states flip in November, he’ll win them, 96 to 86. Except that… states are going to flip.
Indiana’s already gone; and of the remaining six Obama states only New Mexico and Illinois are not considered toss-ups. The administration’s relentless hostility towards coal production and use may have already contributed to Democratic electoral disaster: since Obama took office the state governments and legislatures of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia have all been taken over by Republicans; in Colorado we flipped the House of Representatives; and in New Mexico we captured the governorship. Heck, we even gained seats in the Illinois legislature, and came very close to winning the governorship.
The question is, is it fair to wonder whether coal will make things worse for the Democrats? I think so....."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill's Congress Blog "Our fallen heroes remind us of our greatness"
Sen. Joe Lieberman:
"This past August, I attended the funeral of Brian Bill — a Stamford, Conn., native and Navy SEAL who perished along with 29 other American service members and eight Afghans when their Chinook helicopter was shot down during a rescue mission in eastern Afghanistan.
Bill was a remarkable young man who led a life of service, achievement and significance. He was an accomplished skier, mountaineer, pilot and triathlete. He was fluent in French and self-taught in Russian. He had plans after completing his military service of going to graduate school and becoming an astronaut. For Bill’s future, the sky had no limit.
Above all, Bill was a patriot. He made the choice to dedicate his life to a cause greater than himself, and that cause was our country.
On this Memorial Day, we remember fallen heroes like Bill — a pantheon of extraordinary American men and women whose service and sacrifice span our history and have, quite literally, made America possible. From the beaches of Normandy to the orchards of Kandahar, from Bunker Hill to Chosin, and from Little Round Top to Sadr City, we owe our liberty and security as a nation to the courageous Americans who never came home from these places, and to those heroes — family and friends, neighbors and strangers — who survived....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"This past August, I attended the funeral of Brian Bill — a Stamford, Conn., native and Navy SEAL who perished along with 29 other American service members and eight Afghans when their Chinook helicopter was shot down during a rescue mission in eastern Afghanistan.
Bill was a remarkable young man who led a life of service, achievement and significance. He was an accomplished skier, mountaineer, pilot and triathlete. He was fluent in French and self-taught in Russian. He had plans after completing his military service of going to graduate school and becoming an astronaut. For Bill’s future, the sky had no limit.
Above all, Bill was a patriot. He made the choice to dedicate his life to a cause greater than himself, and that cause was our country.
On this Memorial Day, we remember fallen heroes like Bill — a pantheon of extraordinary American men and women whose service and sacrifice span our history and have, quite literally, made America possible. From the beaches of Normandy to the orchards of Kandahar, from Bunker Hill to Chosin, and from Little Round Top to Sadr City, we owe our liberty and security as a nation to the courageous Americans who never came home from these places, and to those heroes — family and friends, neighbors and strangers — who survived....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: The Hill's Congress Blog "Everyone can find a way to honor our service members"
Dr. Jill Biden:
"Over the past few years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to spend time with our veterans, troops and military families. With every visit, I come away inspired.
They are military spouses, who balance work, family and school — all while dealing with the emotions of a deployment. They are military children, who move from school to school while picking up extra chores while their dad or mom is away serving our country. They are survivors of our fallen, who are pillars of strength for their communities. And of course, they are our troops, veterans and wounded warriors, who have dedicated their lives to defending America.
This Memorial Day, we must remember that these heroes are found in every corner of our country, from big cities to rural areas, from base communities to small towns. But no matter where they are assigned or what their duties are, when our service members are called to serve, so too are their families...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Over the past few years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to spend time with our veterans, troops and military families. With every visit, I come away inspired.
They are military spouses, who balance work, family and school — all while dealing with the emotions of a deployment. They are military children, who move from school to school while picking up extra chores while their dad or mom is away serving our country. They are survivors of our fallen, who are pillars of strength for their communities. And of course, they are our troops, veterans and wounded warriors, who have dedicated their lives to defending America.
This Memorial Day, we must remember that these heroes are found in every corner of our country, from big cities to rural areas, from base communities to small towns. But no matter where they are assigned or what their duties are, when our service members are called to serve, so too are their families...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Officers at Southern Texas Port of Entry Foil Cocaine Smuggler"
"Eagle Pass, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Eagle Pass port of entry Friday seized more than 12 pounds of cocaine from a vehicle entering the country from Mexico.
Friday afternoon, CBP officers at Eagle Pass Bridge No. 1 referred a 1997 Buick LeSabre driven by a 27-year-old Mexican citizen Piedras Negras, for intensive inspection. Officers scanned the car using a non-intrusive imaging system and discovered six electrical tape-wrapped packages hidden inside the vehicle. A field test revealed that the packages contained a total of 12.67 pounds of cocaine, worth an estimated $405,504.
The suspect was turned over to agents of Homeland Security Investigations.
“The persistence of our CBP officers, coupled with their training, was instrumental in preventing this load of narcotics from reaching America’s streets,” said CBP Port Director Cynthia O. Rodriguez. “Our frontline officers continue to keep a step ahead of would-be smugglers.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws."
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Foils Huge Drug Smuggling Attempt"
"Tucson, Ariz. – Agents from CBP's Tucson Sector, Sonoita Border Patrol Station seized 6,153 pounds of marijuana yesterday worth more than $3 million.
Agents responded to a call of two suspicious vehicles parked east of Patagonia, Ariz. At the scene, agents discovered two abandoned vehicles loaded with 604 bundles of marijuana. The narcotics, worth approximately $3,076,500, and vehicles were seized. The Drug Enforcement Administration will take possession of the marijuana.
“This seizure shows how elements of our national strategy work when resourceful agents use information and relations to target and dismantle transnational criminal organizations operating within our border communities,” stated Patrol Agent in Charge Michael G. Hyatt of the Sonoita Station.
The Tucson Sector, employing targeted enforcement tactics, is making significant progress along the Arizona/Mexico border by tracking down and prosecuting smugglers attempting to transport contraband further into the United States. Stiff penalties for smuggling also cause many smugglers to abandon their drug loads rather than risk apprehension and federal prosecution.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws."
SandBoxBlogs: Greeley Tribune "18th Street Gang member back in Weld County Jail"
via Greeley Tribune:
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"An 18th Street Gang member who has been serving time in federal prison is back in Weld County Jail after the U.S. Attorney’s Office turned the case back over to the Weld District Attorney.
Marcel Preece, 33, of Gill, had just been released from prison and was on parole in early November last year when he was arrested in an undercover gun sale. A search warrant was executed on a residence, and Greeley police found a third weapon and illicit drugs.
The case could have been tried at either the state or federal level. After the federal court took the case, they reviewed it with the Weld County District Attorney’s Office and determined it would be best prosecuted in Weld.
In addition to being charged with two felony counts for selling the guns, Preece is also charged with two felony counts of possession of a weapon by a previous offender. He faces up to 15 years in prison because he could be considered a career criminal, according to court documents.
Preece is due in court at 1:30 p.m. June 6....." (Read original release? Click title)
Marcel Preece, 33, of Gill, had just been released from prison and was on parole in early November last year when he was arrested in an undercover gun sale. A search warrant was executed on a residence, and Greeley police found a third weapon and illicit drugs.
The case could have been tried at either the state or federal level. After the federal court took the case, they reviewed it with the Weld County District Attorney’s Office and determined it would be best prosecuted in Weld.
In addition to being charged with two felony counts for selling the guns, Preece is also charged with two felony counts of possession of a weapon by a previous offender. He faces up to 15 years in prison because he could be considered a career criminal, according to court documents.
Preece is due in court at 1:30 p.m. June 6....." (Read original release? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Examiner "Denver police arrest 35 in week-long prostitution sweep"
Ken Green:
"A weeklong prostitution sting in the Denver area has resulted in the arrest of 35 people, including 29 “johns”, the Denver Police Department reported Thursday.
The reverse prostitution “John Stings” were conducted by the DPD’s Vice Unit and focused on the North and West area of Denver. DPD said it had received numerous complaints from residents regarding alleged solicitation and prostitution.
Police reported that 29 individuals were arrested for “Solicitation of Prostitution” and/or “Agreeing to an Act of Prostitution” and 23 vehicles were seized. In addition, the multi-level street prostitution sweet also resulted in the arrest of six alleged prostitutes. DPD said that the total of 35 arrests this past week also included those arrested for prostitution-related activities and outstanding arrest warrants.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"A weeklong prostitution sting in the Denver area has resulted in the arrest of 35 people, including 29 “johns”, the Denver Police Department reported Thursday.
The reverse prostitution “John Stings” were conducted by the DPD’s Vice Unit and focused on the North and West area of Denver. DPD said it had received numerous complaints from residents regarding alleged solicitation and prostitution.
Police reported that 29 individuals were arrested for “Solicitation of Prostitution” and/or “Agreeing to an Act of Prostitution” and 23 vehicles were seized. In addition, the multi-level street prostitution sweet also resulted in the arrest of six alleged prostitutes. DPD said that the total of 35 arrests this past week also included those arrested for prostitution-related activities and outstanding arrest warrants.
Earlier this year, 14 people were indicted by the Colorado Attorney General on charges of human trafficking and running a child prostitution ring that include locations from Denver to Grand Junction....."
(Read more? Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "District Attorney Motions to Dismiss Charges Against Kirk Firko"
After all DA Pete Hautzinger put Gene Lawyer and his family through, it hardly seems just or anywhere near fair that the likely real culprit of Kirk Firko escapes without a trial.
Unlike Trooper Lawyer's posts where SandBox blocked public commentary for the sake of Lawyer and his family, comment ability on this highly political move of Hautzingers is wide open.
Cori Coffin:
"MESA COUNTY, Colo.- A CSP trooper involved in a deadly shooting may no longer be prosecuted.
Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger has filed a motion to drop all charges against Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Firko was accused, along with State Trooper Ivan Lawyer, of negligent homicide and felony trespassing in connection to the shooting death of Jason Kemp.
Earlier this month, Lawyer was acquitted of all charges relating to Kemp's death.
Firko's trial was set to begin July 16.
In the motion to dismiss, Hautzinger said, "The people conclude that there is not sufficient reasonable likelihood of a Mesa County jury being unanimously convinced beyond a reasonable doubt of defendant Firko's guilt to justify going forward with another lengthy jury trial."
The DA went on to say that even though the people believe they don't have a case against Firko, the motion to dismiss is in no way an endorsement of Firko's or Lawyer's actions and the legality of them...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
Unlike Trooper Lawyer's posts where SandBox blocked public commentary for the sake of Lawyer and his family, comment ability on this highly political move of Hautzingers is wide open.
Cori Coffin:
"MESA COUNTY, Colo.- A CSP trooper involved in a deadly shooting may no longer be prosecuted.
Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger has filed a motion to drop all charges against Cpl. Kirk Firko.
Firko was accused, along with State Trooper Ivan Lawyer, of negligent homicide and felony trespassing in connection to the shooting death of Jason Kemp.
Earlier this month, Lawyer was acquitted of all charges relating to Kemp's death.
Firko's trial was set to begin July 16.
In the motion to dismiss, Hautzinger said, "The people conclude that there is not sufficient reasonable likelihood of a Mesa County jury being unanimously convinced beyond a reasonable doubt of defendant Firko's guilt to justify going forward with another lengthy jury trial."
The DA went on to say that even though the people believe they don't have a case against Firko, the motion to dismiss is in no way an endorsement of Firko's or Lawyer's actions and the legality of them...."
(Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit Daily News "Poverty a persistent and growing issue in Summit County"
Kathryn Corazzelli:
"....Summit Community Care Clinic executive director Sarah Vaine, a panelist at the event, said she appreciates the data, and finds it valuable and validating.
“If you're working with families that are struggling, it's hard to illustrate that it's happening,” she said. “This kind of data helps us understand where we can target some of those efforts, to discourage the disparities in health and education.”
Those disparities in health, wealth and education aren't seen by many, Vaine said, and predisposes children who end up with the shorter end of the stick with less opportunity.
Children who go to school with empty stomachs, or worried about things like their parents' financial woes, have a harder time learning and just don't do as well in class, panel member and Summit School District board member Sue Wilcox said.
“It's all related,” she said. “I'm shocked at the poverty levels and how they're growing.”
A past Summit Daily News article chronicling the high number of children who qualified for the free-and-reduced lunch program was not believed by some people Davidson talked to — they thought the numbers were wrong, he said.
“You may not be aware of what's going on in your own county,” Davidson said. “You may not see it.”
Children's Campaign president and CEO Chris Watney urged attendees to make sure the data for Summit, and all of Colorado, is well-publicized in order to spur change.
“As we reflect on this year's legislative session and prepare for election season, we believe this report will enable advocates across the state to highlight children's issues and bring this data to life,” Watney said. “Today's discussion reminded us that the numbers represent real children and families in our state, many of whom are struggling. We must continue to serve as a voice for vulnerable kids as decisions are being made that impact their lives.” (Read more of the article? Click title)
"....Summit Community Care Clinic executive director Sarah Vaine, a panelist at the event, said she appreciates the data, and finds it valuable and validating.
“If you're working with families that are struggling, it's hard to illustrate that it's happening,” she said. “This kind of data helps us understand where we can target some of those efforts, to discourage the disparities in health and education.”
Those disparities in health, wealth and education aren't seen by many, Vaine said, and predisposes children who end up with the shorter end of the stick with less opportunity.
Children who go to school with empty stomachs, or worried about things like their parents' financial woes, have a harder time learning and just don't do as well in class, panel member and Summit School District board member Sue Wilcox said.
“It's all related,” she said. “I'm shocked at the poverty levels and how they're growing.”
A past Summit Daily News article chronicling the high number of children who qualified for the free-and-reduced lunch program was not believed by some people Davidson talked to — they thought the numbers were wrong, he said.
“You may not be aware of what's going on in your own county,” Davidson said. “You may not see it.”
Children's Campaign president and CEO Chris Watney urged attendees to make sure the data for Summit, and all of Colorado, is well-publicized in order to spur change.
“As we reflect on this year's legislative session and prepare for election season, we believe this report will enable advocates across the state to highlight children's issues and bring this data to life,” Watney said. “Today's discussion reminded us that the numbers represent real children and families in our state, many of whom are struggling. We must continue to serve as a voice for vulnerable kids as decisions are being made that impact their lives.” (Read more of the article? Click title)
View the full report:To access the full 2011 KIDS COUNT in Colorado! report, visit www.coloradokids.org/data/publications/2012kidscount.html "Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "Cliffhanger coaster under construction"
(See related posts and public comments here and here)
John Colson:
"....It was quite a feat getting the Cliffhanger here from Branson, Mo., where it sat idle at the Celebration City amusement park from 2009-2011, Heard said.
The Italian-made ride was new when it was erected in Branson, and ran for about five years before it was shut down for financial reasons, she explained.
Adventure Park maintenance manager Kelly Bates (known as “the master” among the park's crew) is project manager for the Cliffhanger.
Bates knew of the idled ride, and started negotiating to buy it before it was even advertised for sale, Heard said.
She said the Adventure Park was competing against Elitch Gardens in Denver and Darien Lake Theme Park near Buffalo, New York, to buy the used coaster.
The negotiations resulted in a purchase price of $375,000 for the roller coaster, Heard said. The total cost of disassembly, repairs made to the structure in Branson and to the cars in Florida, and reassembly in Glenwood Springs is expected to be about $800,000.
The Adventure Park bought 1,400 new bolts for the reassembly, including 700 special bolts, 14 inches long with metric threads, used to hold the sections of track together.
“That's 50 grand just in hardware,” she said of the bolts.
Then came the difficulty of transporting the disassembled, refurbished structure to Glenwood Springs.
Heard said it was difficult to sign up a dozen independent truckers, the number needed to ship the disassembled structure to Glenwood Springs.
The difficulty, she said, was that “there's not much return freight” for trucks to pick up once they unload in Glenwood, and an empty truck is something independent truckers try to avoid.
Instead, Heard said, the Beckleys turned to shipping brokers, who were able to find the needed trucks.
But sometimes several rigs would show up at once, both in Branson to pick up their loads and in Glenwood Springs to unload, she said, prompting a mad scramble for work crews.
“It was feast or famine,” Heard said with a wry expression.
Once the trucks arrived in Glenwood Springs, the loads had to be hauled up the mountain to the Adventure Park site.
That job went to Bates, who would meet the trucks at the gondola base and immediately lead them up Transfer Trail. He stayed mum about the steep, twisty route they were about to drive up.
“We had all these flatland truckers with no experience in mountain driving,” Heard recalled.
“A lot of them didn't quite appreciate being suckered into that,” Heard laughed. “None of them made a second trip....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
John Colson:
"....It was quite a feat getting the Cliffhanger here from Branson, Mo., where it sat idle at the Celebration City amusement park from 2009-2011, Heard said.
The Italian-made ride was new when it was erected in Branson, and ran for about five years before it was shut down for financial reasons, she explained.
Adventure Park maintenance manager Kelly Bates (known as “the master” among the park's crew) is project manager for the Cliffhanger.
Bates knew of the idled ride, and started negotiating to buy it before it was even advertised for sale, Heard said.
She said the Adventure Park was competing against Elitch Gardens in Denver and Darien Lake Theme Park near Buffalo, New York, to buy the used coaster.
The negotiations resulted in a purchase price of $375,000 for the roller coaster, Heard said. The total cost of disassembly, repairs made to the structure in Branson and to the cars in Florida, and reassembly in Glenwood Springs is expected to be about $800,000.
The Adventure Park bought 1,400 new bolts for the reassembly, including 700 special bolts, 14 inches long with metric threads, used to hold the sections of track together.
“That's 50 grand just in hardware,” she said of the bolts.
Then came the difficulty of transporting the disassembled, refurbished structure to Glenwood Springs.
Heard said it was difficult to sign up a dozen independent truckers, the number needed to ship the disassembled structure to Glenwood Springs.
The difficulty, she said, was that “there's not much return freight” for trucks to pick up once they unload in Glenwood, and an empty truck is something independent truckers try to avoid.
Instead, Heard said, the Beckleys turned to shipping brokers, who were able to find the needed trucks.
But sometimes several rigs would show up at once, both in Branson to pick up their loads and in Glenwood Springs to unload, she said, prompting a mad scramble for work crews.
“It was feast or famine,” Heard said with a wry expression.
Once the trucks arrived in Glenwood Springs, the loads had to be hauled up the mountain to the Adventure Park site.
That job went to Bates, who would meet the trucks at the gondola base and immediately lead them up Transfer Trail. He stayed mum about the steep, twisty route they were about to drive up.
“We had all these flatland truckers with no experience in mountain driving,” Heard recalled.
“A lot of them didn't quite appreciate being suckered into that,” Heard laughed. “None of them made a second trip....” (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Can high-priced Aspen support a low-priced lodge?"
Curtis Wackerle:
"With average hotel prices spiking 40 percent between 2003 and 2007, a recently released city of Aspen lodging study opens a window on the question of government’s role in encouraging less expensive options.
“Think of it as an existing conditions report,” said city long-range planner Jessica Garrow.
The 29-page study was based on conversations with a majority of lodge operators in Aspen, who were asked to provide their number of rooms, as well as average room sizes. The report also includes interviews with 13 operators from all sectors of Aspen’s lodging inventory. Planners are working on a second phase of the report that delves more deeply into the question of what more, if anything, the city government should do to impact the local lodging market.
Trying to beef up the lower end of the market to help attract the next generation to Aspen is a goal outlined in the latest edition of the Aspen Area Community Plan, adopted this year. City Council made studying the feasibility of such a concept a top-10 goal last summer.
With the city owning numerous properties around town, some have suggested that donating or selling the land at a reduce price to an affordable lodging developer, or providing zoning bonuses to those who do it on their own property, could be a way to make a project happen.
The report includes a history of lodging development and government policy in town from the 1960s through the last decade. It summarizes the types of lodging available in Aspen today, community desires for the bed base expressed through the Aspen Area Community Plan process and the perceived feasibility of further government action to encourage lower-priced options in the increasingly high-priced zip code.
“City government has played a wide variety of roles in Aspen’s lodging inventory over the years, ranging from the philosopher-sociologist to the market economist —and at times, financial supporter,” reads the report, produced by Garrow and city consulting planner Ben Gagnon.
Aspen lost some 27 percent of its total bed base inventory between 1994 and 2007, according to the 2008 “State of the Aspen Area” study, with a majority of the loss in the economy sector. Even with the decline in pillows, lodging tax revenues jumped 49 percent, reflecting a 40 percent increase in pricing. Second homes also are now playing a larger role in tourism accommodations...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"With average hotel prices spiking 40 percent between 2003 and 2007, a recently released city of Aspen lodging study opens a window on the question of government’s role in encouraging less expensive options.
“Think of it as an existing conditions report,” said city long-range planner Jessica Garrow.
The 29-page study was based on conversations with a majority of lodge operators in Aspen, who were asked to provide their number of rooms, as well as average room sizes. The report also includes interviews with 13 operators from all sectors of Aspen’s lodging inventory. Planners are working on a second phase of the report that delves more deeply into the question of what more, if anything, the city government should do to impact the local lodging market.
Trying to beef up the lower end of the market to help attract the next generation to Aspen is a goal outlined in the latest edition of the Aspen Area Community Plan, adopted this year. City Council made studying the feasibility of such a concept a top-10 goal last summer.
With the city owning numerous properties around town, some have suggested that donating or selling the land at a reduce price to an affordable lodging developer, or providing zoning bonuses to those who do it on their own property, could be a way to make a project happen.
The report includes a history of lodging development and government policy in town from the 1960s through the last decade. It summarizes the types of lodging available in Aspen today, community desires for the bed base expressed through the Aspen Area Community Plan process and the perceived feasibility of further government action to encourage lower-priced options in the increasingly high-priced zip code.
“City government has played a wide variety of roles in Aspen’s lodging inventory over the years, ranging from the philosopher-sociologist to the market economist —and at times, financial supporter,” reads the report, produced by Garrow and city consulting planner Ben Gagnon.
Aspen lost some 27 percent of its total bed base inventory between 1994 and 2007, according to the 2008 “State of the Aspen Area” study, with a majority of the loss in the economy sector. Even with the decline in pillows, lodging tax revenues jumped 49 percent, reflecting a 40 percent increase in pricing. Second homes also are now playing a larger role in tourism accommodations...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "Downtown Montrose Becomes New Fad"
Courtney Griffin:
"MONTROSE, Colo.- Downtown Montrose is blossoming with new events, farmer's markets and stores this summer.
Scott Shine, manager of the Downtown Development Authority, says within the last couple of months, it’s really become the place for people to be. “We've had some businesses move into the district that were operating outside of downtown that have come downtown to be a part of what's happening down here, so we think that's a positive sign.”
With vacant building signs vanishing, the downtown area is a place where people can go shopping, look for home décor and enjoy eateries.
One business owner who has been downtown for 30 years said in the past couple of years business has really picked up. “It seems to be picking up every day. We see people from out of town shopping and I’m very encouraged by the traffic that we’re seeing," said Glee Westcott, owner of Tiffany Etc.
With many new events going into the downtown area, one event in particular will be going on all summer long. Main in Motion is an event starting June 7 and brings between 3,000 and 5,000 people every Thursday, lasting until August 23....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"MONTROSE, Colo.- Downtown Montrose is blossoming with new events, farmer's markets and stores this summer.
Scott Shine, manager of the Downtown Development Authority, says within the last couple of months, it’s really become the place for people to be. “We've had some businesses move into the district that were operating outside of downtown that have come downtown to be a part of what's happening down here, so we think that's a positive sign.”
With vacant building signs vanishing, the downtown area is a place where people can go shopping, look for home décor and enjoy eateries.
One business owner who has been downtown for 30 years said in the past couple of years business has really picked up. “It seems to be picking up every day. We see people from out of town shopping and I’m very encouraged by the traffic that we’re seeing," said Glee Westcott, owner of Tiffany Etc.
With many new events going into the downtown area, one event in particular will be going on all summer long. Main in Motion is an event starting June 7 and brings between 3,000 and 5,000 people every Thursday, lasting until August 23....." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "Colorado Receives $5 Million in Grants to Keep Jobs Local"
Danielle Kreuther:
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- The U.S. Department of Labor has provided more than $200 million in grants to help raise technical skills of U.S. workers.
Workforce officials say these grants are made with the goal of raising the skill levels of U.S. workers. The hope is that this will not only reduce the number of foreign workers being hired for high skill, high paying jobs in the U.S., but also make local businesses more competitive.
"The technology now coming out, a lot of times requires upgrading your training on a regular basis, so if we're able to provide that training, it keeps our local companies competitive," said Suzie Miller of the Mesa County Workforce Center.
The USDOL is helping foot the bill for that training by giving $5 million in grants to help train incumbent workers in Colorado.
The grants are financed by fees in occupations and industries where employers were using H-1B visas to hire foreign workers...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- The U.S. Department of Labor has provided more than $200 million in grants to help raise technical skills of U.S. workers.
Workforce officials say these grants are made with the goal of raising the skill levels of U.S. workers. The hope is that this will not only reduce the number of foreign workers being hired for high skill, high paying jobs in the U.S., but also make local businesses more competitive.
"The technology now coming out, a lot of times requires upgrading your training on a regular basis, so if we're able to provide that training, it keeps our local companies competitive," said Suzie Miller of the Mesa County Workforce Center.
The USDOL is helping foot the bill for that training by giving $5 million in grants to help train incumbent workers in Colorado.
The grants are financed by fees in occupations and industries where employers were using H-1B visas to hire foreign workers...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Citizen Telegram " Natural Soda expansion could mean jobs for Rifle workers"
Mike McKibbin:
"Construction is due to start soon on a $30 million expansion of the Natural Soda sodium bicarbonate mining operation in Rio Blanco County, 50 miles northwest of Rifle.
That will mean jobs for Rifle area construction workers, and the chance of landing some of the up to 10 permanent jobs when the project is done.
Officials, including Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, May 21, to launch the expansion project.
Bob Warneke, vice president of operations at the plant, said the construction project will provide work for around 60 contractors. Many of those workers will be bused to the Natural Soda site from Rifle, Meeker and Rangely, he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Construction is due to start soon on a $30 million expansion of the Natural Soda sodium bicarbonate mining operation in Rio Blanco County, 50 miles northwest of Rifle.
That will mean jobs for Rifle area construction workers, and the chance of landing some of the up to 10 permanent jobs when the project is done.
Officials, including Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, May 21, to launch the expansion project.
Bob Warneke, vice president of operations at the plant, said the construction project will provide work for around 60 contractors. Many of those workers will be bused to the Natural Soda site from Rifle, Meeker and Rangely, he said...." (Read more? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KREX News 5 "Durango: Then and Now"
KREX:
"DURANGO, Colo.- Durango was recently voted the sixth best small town in America by Smithsonian Magazine...." (Read more? Listen to interview? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"DURANGO, Colo.- Durango was recently voted the sixth best small town in America by Smithsonian Magazine...." (Read more? Listen to interview? Click title)
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: KDNK "GarCo's New Way to Spend Oil and Gas Money"
KDNK:
"Garfield County commissioners met with Carbondale town trustees this week in part to talk about a funding program set up by the county to distribute money contributed to the county by the oil and gas industry.
KDNK's Eric Skalac spoke with commissioner Mike Samson after the meeting to find out what kind of projects these funds are meant for and about why they moved to this new system for spending oil and gas money." Click here to listen to podcast.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
"Garfield County commissioners met with Carbondale town trustees this week in part to talk about a funding program set up by the county to distribute money contributed to the county by the oil and gas industry.
KDNK's Eric Skalac spoke with commissioner Mike Samson after the meeting to find out what kind of projects these funds are meant for and about why they moved to this new system for spending oil and gas money." Click here to listen to podcast.
"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."
SandBoxBlogs: Summit County Citizens Voice "Friday Fotos: Waterfalls!"
All Credit Bob Berwyn (Click title):
May 25, 2012
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Times "Does the county love Mary Jane?"
'FCL' here:
How about that arrrogance up in Aspen? Thinking they can do anything they want with any drugs and the DEA will not come get them.
How's that working for PitCo and the City of Aspen?
Aspen Times Editorial:
"instead of deciding to leave each licensing case up to them. As Rachel Richards pointed out, the county's industry then would become politicized. The medical marijuana industry helps a lot of people in the community, and the last thing it needs is to fall victim to a highly charged atmosphere and petty public controversies —the sort that media entities and political opportunists love to get their hands on.
While we are confident that most commissioners will follow the direction the board set for itself earlier this week, we also might suggest that the county go no further than to issue licenses for a fee and pursue commonality with only what state law mandates. Some unincorporated communities in Pitkin County have expressed an interest in banning such businesses, whether dispensaries or grow houses or both, a move that would serve to pit villages and neighbors against one another — politicizing the process and further dividing the county.
The commissioners should officially approve this simple step of administrative control on licensing before July 1 and then turn away from the prospect of special zoning areas or village-by-village control of business locations. Current zoning allows for commercial and agricultural businesses, and the
marijuana-healing industry deserves the rights afforded to other U.S. small businesses.
Residents countywide should be of one mind on the issue and set another great local example for the rest of humankind. Bob Marley said it best: Let's get together and feel all right....."
(Read more/ Click title)
How about that arrrogance up in Aspen? Thinking they can do anything they want with any drugs and the DEA will not come get them.
How's that working for PitCo and the City of Aspen?
Aspen Times Editorial:
"instead of deciding to leave each licensing case up to them. As Rachel Richards pointed out, the county's industry then would become politicized. The medical marijuana industry helps a lot of people in the community, and the last thing it needs is to fall victim to a highly charged atmosphere and petty public controversies —the sort that media entities and political opportunists love to get their hands on.
While we are confident that most commissioners will follow the direction the board set for itself earlier this week, we also might suggest that the county go no further than to issue licenses for a fee and pursue commonality with only what state law mandates. Some unincorporated communities in Pitkin County have expressed an interest in banning such businesses, whether dispensaries or grow houses or both, a move that would serve to pit villages and neighbors against one another — politicizing the process and further dividing the county.
The commissioners should officially approve this simple step of administrative control on licensing before July 1 and then turn away from the prospect of special zoning areas or village-by-village control of business locations. Current zoning allows for commercial and agricultural businesses, and the
marijuana-healing industry deserves the rights afforded to other U.S. small businesses.
Residents countywide should be of one mind on the issue and set another great local example for the rest of humankind. Bob Marley said it best: Let's get together and feel all right....."
(Read more/ Click title)
SandBoxBlogs: Customs and Border Protection "CBP Makes Two Large Marijuana Busts"
'FCL' here, covering for our poor 'Nanny' who fractured her wrist a few days ago.
Look at this photo! Can you believe some of the ways these cartels try to smuggle in dope to the USA??!
Click title to read about this bust.
Look at this photo! Can you believe some of the ways these cartels try to smuggle in dope to the USA??!
Click title to read about this bust.
SandBoxBlogs: Aspen Daily News "Letter hints at lawsuit over deputy’s firing"
Chad Abraham:
"The attorney for a longtime Pitkin County Sheriff’s deputy who was fired after she allegedly failed to report a minor traffic accident while on duty recently sent Sheriff Joe DiSalvo a letter indicating the potential for legal action.
County officials were tightlipped Tuesday about the letter’s contents concerning Ann Stephenson.
Pitkin County Attorney John Ely said he could not release the letter from Stephenson’s attorney, Todd McNamara of Denver, because it would violate the attorney-client privilege. Messages left with McNamara on Tuesday were not returned.
DiSalvo, too, declined to provide the letter.
“I’m not comfortable releasing it,” he said. “I don’t know where this is going to go.”...."
(Click title to read story)
"The attorney for a longtime Pitkin County Sheriff’s deputy who was fired after she allegedly failed to report a minor traffic accident while on duty recently sent Sheriff Joe DiSalvo a letter indicating the potential for legal action.
County officials were tightlipped Tuesday about the letter’s contents concerning Ann Stephenson.
Pitkin County Attorney John Ely said he could not release the letter from Stephenson’s attorney, Todd McNamara of Denver, because it would violate the attorney-client privilege. Messages left with McNamara on Tuesday were not returned.
DiSalvo, too, declined to provide the letter.
“I’m not comfortable releasing it,” he said. “I don’t know where this is going to go.”...."
(Click title to read story)
SandBox Blogs: Garfield Public Info "Sheriff Vallario Releases Statement Regarding ACLU Accusations "
(See related post and comments here)
'FCL':
Sheriff Vallario was recently attacked by the ACLU and CIRC over alleged deportation of domestic violence "victims". The outpouring of viral link baits from CIRC has been the worst seen on the web over anything or anyone supporting Vallario at mid-term elections. Of course the local Post Independent and Aspen Times jumped on that and have printed the usual half of the other side of the story. I say 'half' of CIRC and the ACLU story because in this case, ACLU and CIRC were fully aware that the "victims" in question were actually arrestees and the Secure Communities program/laws went into effect this week.
Here are some links to show the bias of the PI and a little bit of the viral baits. There is nothing in the PI over the press release below, so Nanny and I decided to post the release in its entirety.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/946/938/492/tell-sheriff-vallario-domestic-violence-victims-deserve-justice-not-deportation/
http://www.google.com/search?q=vallario+deports+domestic+violence+victims&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGLJ_en
http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120525/VALLEYNEWS/120529937/1083&ParentProfile=1074
http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120523/VALLEYNEWS/120529972/1083&parentprofile=1074583
Positive and realistic related coverage:
http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120524/VALLEYNEWS/120529948/1021&parentprofile=1077
(Letters from Michael Birdsley and Kathy Buettner)
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_20694306/secure-communities-activated-by-ice-track-and-deport
http://www.gazette.com/articles/statewide-139123-denver-fingerprint.html
Thank you, Sheriff Vallario for the dose of reality below. More people appreciate our law enforcement here in the county more than many of us think you know:
"NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 22, 2012
In response to the lies and slanderous accusations by the ACLU, the most dangerous organization to the United States of America today, as well as the Denver Post, channel 7 news (Denver) and others who produced stories without any attempt to contact the Garfield County Sheriff for an accurate response, here is the official GCSO response:
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office has never turned over a victim of a crime to any organization.
When a person who is under arrest enters the GCSO jail, they are a defendant, charged with crimes and are subsequently booked into jail. Part of that process is a mandated compliance with 29-29-103 CRS that “requires” the Sheriff to notify ICE of anyone they reasonably believe is not legally present in the United States and although there is a section that does not mandate notification of a Domestic Violence arrest until conviction, there is nothing in that law prohibiting the Sheriff from making that notification at the time of booking. Further, in accordance with the Colorado Open Records Act, the Custodian of Records (Sheriff) SHALL, upon request release certain information regarding inmates and their booking information. Failure to provide such information on someone arrested for DV, would also violate CORA. Therefore, the GCSO is in compliance with the law and as stated to the ACLU in a response letter, until the law is changed we will continue to operate under this practice.
At the core of this issue is the ACLU attempting to protect illegal aliens, particularly females that are arrested for DV and “might” ultimately turn out to be victims. As there are many things that “might” happen to someone charged with a crime, it is not up to the Sheriff to attempt to predict these many outcomes. It is up to the Sheriff to comply with and report to ICE conditions set forth in the statutes with respect to those arrested and incarcerated.
Sheriff Lou Vallario states, “I have always been sympathetic to victims of crimes, regardless of their immigration status. If you are a victim of a crime, you should report it and be provided all of the efforts and services available to victims of any crimes. Also, having taught Domestic Violence classes at the local Police Academy for over 10 years, I fully understand the dynamics of DV and the associated difficulties with victims reporting their abuse. This is not a singular issue for the illegal immigrant population but an issue for all victims of DV. Victims of DV are afraid to report, regardless of their immigration status. To reduce this difficult situation to concerning themselves only with the illegal immigrant population, the ACLU is ignoring the broader topic of DV throughout the state. Further, if the ACLU does not like the manner in which the law is written, why don’t they find a Legislator sympathetic to their cause and change the law? Instead, they prefer to use lies, slander and bullying tactics to try to force their will on those of us that respect the law and comply with it.”
These subversive tactics come straight out of a guide titled, “All in One Guide to Defeating ICE Hold Requests” (see attached) where they promote “attacking Sheriffs” and “driving a wedge between them and ICE”. Rest assured, the GCSO will not be bullied or intimidated into complying with what the ACLU thinks is most appropriate for our country.
Finally, the automated fingerprint notification system known as “Secure Communities” will be in effect this month in Colorado. This system, forwards ALL fingerprints produced by ALL arrestees in ALL jails to CBI where they are then forwarded to various databases, including ICE’s. Therefore, as soon as this goes into effect, the provisions of the above statue will be moot in that there will be no need to determine immigration status any longer when booking a defendant into jail. Obviously, it was important for the ACLU to raise this issue BEFORE Secure Communities for whatever their hidden agenda has in store.
Lou Vallario
Garfield County Sheriff
970-945-0453
lvallario@garcosheriff.com"
'FCL':
Sheriff Vallario was recently attacked by the ACLU and CIRC over alleged deportation of domestic violence "victims". The outpouring of viral link baits from CIRC has been the worst seen on the web over anything or anyone supporting Vallario at mid-term elections. Of course the local Post Independent and Aspen Times jumped on that and have printed the usual half of the other side of the story. I say 'half' of CIRC and the ACLU story because in this case, ACLU and CIRC were fully aware that the "victims" in question were actually arrestees and the Secure Communities program/laws went into effect this week.
Here are some links to show the bias of the PI and a little bit of the viral baits. There is nothing in the PI over the press release below, so Nanny and I decided to post the release in its entirety.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/946/938/492/tell-sheriff-vallario-domestic-violence-victims-deserve-justice-not-deportation/
http://www.google.com/search?q=vallario+deports+domestic+violence+victims&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGLJ_en
http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120525/VALLEYNEWS/120529937/1083&ParentProfile=1074
http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120523/VALLEYNEWS/120529972/1083&parentprofile=1074583
Positive and realistic related coverage:
http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120524/VALLEYNEWS/120529948/1021&parentprofile=1077
(Letters from Michael Birdsley and Kathy Buettner)
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_20694306/secure-communities-activated-by-ice-track-and-deport
http://www.gazette.com/articles/statewide-139123-denver-fingerprint.html
Thank you, Sheriff Vallario for the dose of reality below. More people appreciate our law enforcement here in the county more than many of us think you know:
"NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 22, 2012
In response to the lies and slanderous accusations by the ACLU, the most dangerous organization to the United States of America today, as well as the Denver Post, channel 7 news (Denver) and others who produced stories without any attempt to contact the Garfield County Sheriff for an accurate response, here is the official GCSO response:
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office has never turned over a victim of a crime to any organization.
When a person who is under arrest enters the GCSO jail, they are a defendant, charged with crimes and are subsequently booked into jail. Part of that process is a mandated compliance with 29-29-103 CRS that “requires” the Sheriff to notify ICE of anyone they reasonably believe is not legally present in the United States and although there is a section that does not mandate notification of a Domestic Violence arrest until conviction, there is nothing in that law prohibiting the Sheriff from making that notification at the time of booking. Further, in accordance with the Colorado Open Records Act, the Custodian of Records (Sheriff) SHALL, upon request release certain information regarding inmates and their booking information. Failure to provide such information on someone arrested for DV, would also violate CORA. Therefore, the GCSO is in compliance with the law and as stated to the ACLU in a response letter, until the law is changed we will continue to operate under this practice.
At the core of this issue is the ACLU attempting to protect illegal aliens, particularly females that are arrested for DV and “might” ultimately turn out to be victims. As there are many things that “might” happen to someone charged with a crime, it is not up to the Sheriff to attempt to predict these many outcomes. It is up to the Sheriff to comply with and report to ICE conditions set forth in the statutes with respect to those arrested and incarcerated.
Sheriff Lou Vallario states, “I have always been sympathetic to victims of crimes, regardless of their immigration status. If you are a victim of a crime, you should report it and be provided all of the efforts and services available to victims of any crimes. Also, having taught Domestic Violence classes at the local Police Academy for over 10 years, I fully understand the dynamics of DV and the associated difficulties with victims reporting their abuse. This is not a singular issue for the illegal immigrant population but an issue for all victims of DV. Victims of DV are afraid to report, regardless of their immigration status. To reduce this difficult situation to concerning themselves only with the illegal immigrant population, the ACLU is ignoring the broader topic of DV throughout the state. Further, if the ACLU does not like the manner in which the law is written, why don’t they find a Legislator sympathetic to their cause and change the law? Instead, they prefer to use lies, slander and bullying tactics to try to force their will on those of us that respect the law and comply with it.”
These subversive tactics come straight out of a guide titled, “All in One Guide to Defeating ICE Hold Requests” (see attached) where they promote “attacking Sheriffs” and “driving a wedge between them and ICE”. Rest assured, the GCSO will not be bullied or intimidated into complying with what the ACLU thinks is most appropriate for our country.
Finally, the automated fingerprint notification system known as “Secure Communities” will be in effect this month in Colorado. This system, forwards ALL fingerprints produced by ALL arrestees in ALL jails to CBI where they are then forwarded to various databases, including ICE’s. Therefore, as soon as this goes into effect, the provisions of the above statue will be moot in that there will be no need to determine immigration status any longer when booking a defendant into jail. Obviously, it was important for the ACLU to raise this issue BEFORE Secure Communities for whatever their hidden agenda has in store.
Lou Vallario
Garfield County Sheriff
970-945-0453
lvallario@garcosheriff.com"
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)