Tornado Spans six states By Megan Reece Thirty-six people lay dead, after the worst spring storm ever seen. The storm tracked from Oklahoma to North Carolina. Sixty-seven tornadoes were reported. Three families died in a mobile home park in Raleigh, the Capitol city of North Carolina. Forty miles south in Sanford, cars were flipped over in a Lowes parking lot, while the big box warehouse lay flattened in twisted rubble. A quick thinking manager led 100 people into the back area, where no windows would shatter. No one was injured at Lowes. Regional Vice President-Jeff Blocker stated, “It was really just a bad scene. You’re amazed that no one was injured.” Police found trailers thrown from one end of the street to the other, and trees ripped from the ground, during their search on Saturday in Raleigh. Monica Elliott works at the Brick City Grill nearby. She stated “It’s very, very bad here—we saw a tornado that rode up over the restaurant.” Nearly 250,000 people went without power in Raleigh until Monday when rescue crews began repairing downed lines. Virginia Emergency Management spokesman Bob Spieldenner said one tornado ripped through twelve miles of Gloucester County, claiming three lives, uprooting trees, and turning homes into rubble. Four people in Charlottesville Virginia were rescued unhurt from a car that plunged into deep water on the street. Two people were killed in Waynesboro, when their car ran into flash flooding. Seven people died in Arkansas; seven in Alabama; two in Oklahoma; one in Mississippi: then the storm moved onto Alabama, and Georgia. The governor of North Carolina stated 62 tornados were the worst since 1984, when 22 twisters spawned the state killing 57 people. An Iraq veteran search and rescue volunteer was stunned by what he saw. After doing two tours in Iraq he said the scene in Raleigh was worse than he’s ever seen in Iraq. Megan Reece is a reporter for http://bsu273.blogspot.com/2011/01/week-2-class-notes-ii.html She can be reached at 208-856-3412
A New York City woman who was getting $850 a month in alimony because she was supposedly disabled and unable to work had her payments slashed after her ex-husband spotted online photos of her belly dancing. Brian McGurk went to court after discovering a blog that showed his 43 year old ex-wife belly dancing at a gallery. In other internet postings, she wrote about dancing for several hours every day. The man’s ex-wife, Dorothy McGurk, told the court that the dancing was physical therapy for injuries she suffered in a car accident back in the mid-1990s. However, a county judge did not buy her claim and reduced her payments to $400 per month. The judge also ordered her to pay her ex-husband’s legal fees and 60 percent from the sale of their home.
This article is priceless! When I first read the headline, I was hooked and I had to read the entire article because it sounded hilarious. I love it when people try to pull off a scam and it backfires on them. And that is exactly what happened to Dorothy McGurk. Little did she know that her ex-husband would end up finding her pictures on the internet. I am glad that her ex-husband turned her in to authorities. I know I would. I am also glad that the county judge did not allow her any slack. The judge is making her pay her ex-husband’s legal fees as well as reducing her monthly allotment of alimony.
This article explains the fires that are currently burning across the state of Texas. There are currently more than a dozen fires that are burning out of control across the state and officials say that there is no stopping them in the near future. An officer with the Texas Forest Service said that he has never seen anything like this before in the state and many people are need to help this matter. The officer said that there re currently of 1,400 people helping at the moment. There are over 700, 000 acres burning in the state and there have been 19 straight days of super dry weather which does not help the situation. Firefighters always plan on having a lot of fire in the spring and summer season, but it the dry heat makes the fires even worse to deal with and not ideal. The firefighters are currently looking for changes in weather patterns or wind shifts so they can start out progress on putting out the fires. The weather service has been trying to help with that process. Changes in wind shifts often help the firefighters deal with putting out huge fires and are a essential part of putting fires out. A man is currently being charged for starting the fires and is being charged with a felony of reckless endangerment which could put him in jail for a long time. The forecast doesn’t look very good in the future so the fire fighters are going to have a tough time dealing with the problem.
The first games of the NBA playoffs kicked off on Saturday. The first games were the Pacers and the Bulls and the Heat and Philadelphia. The higher seed one the game but it was closer than most thought. Both teams won by a combined 13 points, so they were close games. The upsets didn’t come until Sunday when the number one and two seeds Spurs and Lakers both lost their opening at home. This has not happened since 1984-1985 seasons. The Grizzles won their first playoff game in franchise history with their win over the Spurs. The other game of the Lakers and Hornets was a game dominated by Chris Paul. Paul had 33 points 14 assists, and 7 rebounds, Paul is only the 4th man in NBA history to put up those numbers in a playoff game. Despite Kobe’s 34 the Lakers lost by 9, so they will have to make so adjustments for the next game. In the East the magic lost to the Hawks, a team they swept last season in the playoffs, they beat them by an average of 20 points which is the widest points spread of victory in NBA history. Dwight Howard had a franchise record of 46 points and 16 rebounds, but still lost the game by 11 points. The home court this season has not been vital yet, with 3 home teams losing their first games. The first 2 days of the NBA playoffs have been nothing short of amazing, and there are many games to go, so buckle up!
Lindsey Hileman Police: 28-year-old Boise woman caught driving drunk left her 8 year old, infant home alone - Idaho Statesman
On Saturday night, Boise police arrested a woman for driving under the influence and while conducting their investigation, officers discovered that the woman had left her eight year old and infant at home alone. The woman was pulled over for driving down the sidewalk on Broadway Avenue. When she failed the field sobriety tests, the officers were so concerned about her safety that they called an ambulance. When she was giving a breathalyzer she registered between .21 - .23 which is almost three times the legal limit. Not only is this woman facing a DUI charge, but also felony injury to a child. At this point, it is still unknown how long the children had been left alone and what the woman was doing so far away from the home where she left her children. The children were turned over to family members for temporary custody. Obviously this woman is stupid; I don’t want to spend a lot of time on that. More than anything I feel awful those children, especially the eight year old. First of all, I wonder how many times this has happened before. What can an eight year old do for a crying infant who wakes up in the middle of the night? And how scared the child must have been when the police and social workers had to come remove them from the home to place them in the care of relatives.
Obama: Failure to reduce debt will hurt economy Regan S TU/TH
This article was about how President Obama is travelling the nation this week giving speeches on the US debt and solutions to fix it. His main focus is on how we can lower our debt without hurting our nation. He says that he believes that if we do not do something soon, the mounting deficits could inflict serious damage on the country. Obama plans of lowering this deficit by “cutting defense spending and health care costs, increasing taxes on the wealthy and protecting priorities he deems untouchable.” The problem is, that this is easier said than done. The two parties cannot agree on anything, and have been debating over this issue for months. Obama says that he is optimistic, and that he believes the parties will come together to find a solution because “both sides have come together before, and [he] believes they will do it again.” Republicans in the house are proposing a plan that will cut costs in areas like healthcare and medicade, while increasing taxes on the poor and decreasing them for the rich. Obama says he does not like this plan, and that he can cut just as much cost while still focusing on bettering the middle class. I think that lowering taxes for the rich is absurd. If anyone can afford increased taxes, it’s the rich. Hopefully an outcome will be reached soon so that the federal government doesn’t have to shut down anymore.
Thanks to the watchful eyes of the website VG247, it appears that Activison may have had a slight security leak, leaving us with our first look at when to expect the next Black Ops map pack, as well as a hint of what it may contain. The news of this leak was first broke by an Australian retailer (hence the May 3 release date listed as 3/5), which quickly pulled the flyer–likely after receiving an angry phone call from Activision who has yet to officially confirm the news. It is important to note, that while the info pictured appears genuine and is in holding with the previous map pack, this is all still unconfirmed. There isn’t much more to be said about the news that isn’t on the flyer. If true, the next downloadable content will feature four new competitive maps as well as one new zombie map—similar to what the previous Black Ops downloadable content, “First Strike”, contained. Many in the industry are hopeful to see new “Zombies” maps as well given the high number of gamers that initially signed on to play the map type variant but has since dwindled given the lack of variety. Regardless of whether or not it is released on May 3, when the DLC does debut it will hit Xbox Live first, as per the exclusivity contract between Activision and Microsoft. If the release follows the past releases, it will then head to PC and PS3 about a month afterwards.
“Middleton woman who embezzled over 100,000 from Port of Hope placed on five years probation.” Source: Idahostatesman.com
Bobbi A. George of Middleton, plead guilty to wire fraud last year. She was convicted of stealing over $177,000 by wire fraud. George was stealing from a non-profit company called, Port of Hope. Port of Hope is an organization formed to help those with drug and alcohol addictions. George is also convicted of federal tax fraud. She will now have to serve 6 weeks in jail. She will be required to be under house arrest for the next 8 months on top of her jail serving. She will also be required to do 100 hours of community service. George is required to pay $233,000 in restitution fees. George is only 30 years old. She has a long road ahead of her. There is no explanation of whether or not she will get the funds to repay her crimes. I think this case is completely unfair. The people that are in prison for one-time drug charges are serving more time than this woman. She had been taking money from a non-profit organization for years. She is getting out of this very easy. She will be able to move on with her life in a matter of years. I do not know how Bobbi George will be repaying such an extravagant amount of money to the state. My hunch is that she will not come up with the money and have to file for bankruptcy. The state of Idaho will be paying for her bad decisions once again.
SYDNEY GILL New rule tackles bag fees, bumping, flight delays- Idaho Statesman Flying can be a pain when having to worry about lost luggage or having a flight delayed, but the federal government has put in place new passenger protections. These include refunds for lost luggage and more money when a traveler is bumped from a flight. Airlines will also now have to show their fees and taxes in the prices that they advertise. These new protections will begin in late August. Ray LaHood, U.S. Transportation Secretary, said that these new rules are being put in place to make sure that travelers are being treated fairly. No reimbursement will be required if a bag is delivered late. When a passenger is bumped the compensation amount is $400 or $800. Now with the new rule the compensation will rise to $650 and $1,330. Last year the number of passengers bumped from a flight was 65,000. Another 681,000 passengers gave up their seats voluntarily. Also, this rule will allow travelers to see any of the hidden fees that airlines may not be showing when they are advertising on their websites. This includes the amount for checking-in bags, changing reservations, or upgrading to a different class. Not all airlines are happy about this because they argue that “car dealers and other businesses don’t have to do that.” A proposal was dropped that would require that all airlines include in legal contracts with customers their promises of customer-service. Even though not everything that consumer advocates asked for was approved, they were happy with the changes that were made.
Idaho Statesmen: QB recruit enjoys visit with Boise State football program; Petersen expects 'intense experience' with Mountain West transition
By: Kelly Sweeney
Hopes for a new quarter back to sign with the Broncos is in the middle of the madness right now. Boise State had prospect Nick Patti from Orlando Florida in town this past Tuesday and Wednesday. Coach Chris Petersen offered Patti in hopes that he would sign right on the spot. Patti has offers from all over, Louisiana Tech, South Florida, Central Florida, and Indiana. Patti does not want to jump the gun and make a decision until after his last season as a high school MVP. Former Bronco Kyle Wilson, told Petersen about Nick from working out in the same facilities over on the east coast. Coach Petersen talked with Patti about the change the Broncos are making into the Mountain West. Patti is very excited but Petersen is nervous. Coach Pete is nervous for the new change for the Broncos. He said it is always hard changing conferences. You do not know the ins and outs of the opponent yet and you are playing at a new place. Although the Broncos are picked to finish on top with TCU and Navy coming to town, Petersen still will not take any body lightly. Coach Pete said he thinks the Broncos will be very excited but he also knows that it is going to be a very intense change; they haven’t been there and done that.
Kristine/Mon Reporting and News Writing News Review-Original Source Los Angeles Times
Two American photo journalists lost their lives in Libya this week. Tim Heatherton whose film Restrepo was nominated for best documentary in 2010 lost his life along with Chris Hondros while on assignment in Libya. They were killed Wednesday in Misurata, a rebel held city in western Libya that has been under siege for weeks by loyalists of Moammar Kadafi. Hondo’s who was 41 suffered a head injury and was taken to a hospital only die there several hours later. He had received multiple awards, including war photography’s highest honor, the 2005 Robert Capa gold medal. He was a Pulitzer finalist for his work in Liberia. Heatherington and Hondros were with a group of six photographers who had made their way to the front line. It “felt dangerous so we were trying to get to a safe place,” Guillermo Cervera told reporters. Heatherington was bleeding out from a wound to the leg as well as a head injury. His brand of photography often straddled the line between journalism and fine art. He sought to bridge the perceptual gap between chaotic events in developing countries and the more privileged worlds of his Western readers. This student writer hopes that people being informed of these tragedy’s will donate money to a memorial fund or other funds that help those wounded or maimed in the middle east tragedies that continue to wreak havoc. Having just sent a niece and nephew off to Afganistan this week it’s hard to fathom that people will spend their hard earned money to listen to likes of Charlie Sheen. Put some money where it will matter.
Robert Dean Hall won’t face death penalty in Meridian shooting
Katie
Robert Dean Hall on Wednesday pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the March 11 shooting death of local attorney Emmett Corrigan, his wife’s boss. Hall, 42, was indicted by an Ada County grand jury last week. The trial is scheduled to begin November 7th of this year. Prosecutors told the judge Wednesday they wouldn’t seek the death penalty for Hall, who is also charged with using a firearm in the commission of a felony. Late last month, Hall was freed from jail on a $1 million bond. A judge later mandated he stay away from and not attempt to contact his wife, Kandi Hall. Kandi Hall had asked the court to allow contact with her husband, but the judge on Wednesday declined to hear that issue, said Bob Cooper, spokesman for the Idaho attorney general’s office, which is handling the case because Hall worked for Ada County. Despite current appearances, prosecutors have said the Halls’ relationship was in turmoil. Corrigan, 30, and Kandi Hall met with a public defender hours before the shooting so she could ask about how to get a protection order against her husband and how to file for divorce, officials said. Police say Hall confronted his wife and Corrigan at a Meridian Walgreens. Court records say Hall shot Corrigan in the head and chest and then tried to shoot himself. Hall told police he scuffled with Corrigan and that his gun fell out, but he wasn’t sure how Corrigan got shot. Hall was terminated from his job as civilian employee with the Ada County Sheriff’s Office.
Retrieved April 21, 2011 http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,14922894,00.html
I found an article on the German website DW-World for this weeks news item. It is talking about the turning age of music, really. There is a huge problem that arose in the music industry, that of people not really buying music anymore, and just getting it off the Internet. With that happening many record stores around the world are having to close their doors, something that hits home for me since I work at the Record Exchange here in Boise. We just had our annual Record Store Day, and brought in more revenue than we do during the Christmas season in just one day! I think that some of these people, mainly the ones that are not buying the music anymore but downloading it are making a stance that they are not going to allow society to dictate the rules for them. Sort of like the communes, and groups of people that are going back to a “simpler” way of life. Which I think can be a good thing, but I feel like if you are still going to listen to the music, you should pay for it and support it instead of going behind the backs of many people and putting them out a lot of money only to gain something for yourself. But I guess that’s how our world seems to be set up, unfortunately.
msnbc.com "FBI hunts suspected domestic terrorist after bomb found on Columbine anniversary" By msnbc.com staff and news service reports
Yesterday was the 12th anniversary of the Columbine School Shooting but that was even forshadowed by the finding of a bomb in a Littleton Mall not far from Columbine High School. The planting of the bomb on the anniversary of such a tragic school shooting is very disterbing, acording to the Jefferson County spokeswoman Jacki Kelley. The mall was evacuated and closed on Wednesday while the pipe bomb was defused and no one was hurt in the incedent. The mall was reopened on Thursday and the law enforcement agencies in the area are working on locating a suspicious man that was caught on camera who is a likely suspect. What motive did this bomber have? We will only learn that once he has been caught.
Killers quest: Allow organ donation after execution Ore. death row inmate Christian Longo seeks redemption, but state says no
Msnb.com by JoNel Aleccia
Oregon death row inmate is working on a campaign behind bars to donate his organs after he’s executed. He wants to do this to repay society for killing his wife and three young children. Christian Longo, 37, killed wife and children almost a decade ago and dumped their bodies in the coastal bays. Longo is planned to be executed by lethal injection. Longo said “why go out and waste your organs when you have the potential to save six to 12 lives?” The state denied his request for dropping appeals in exchange for allowing him to donate organs. It’s been denounced in principle as “morally reprehensible” by the nation’s organ donation officials and medical ethics. Dr. Paul R. Helft, director of the Charles Warren Fairbanks Center for Medical Ethics and Indiana University said “I don’t think we want to be the kind of society that takes organs from prisoners.” He went on saying “To do so would be to use unfree prisoners as a means to an end.” Longo’s quest, which has a Facebook page and has recently been featured in New York Times op-ed piece, brings up the question that many have. Would this solve the problem that the nation has with shortage of transplantable organs or weather it relies on an innately manipulative or vulnerable population of prisoners. Jeffery Orlowski, executive director of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, the non-profit group that represents the nation’s 58 regional group said, “it’s impossible to be sure that a person who is behind bars is making a decisions they would make while walking down the street.” Although a survey of organ transplant centers nationwide reveals that while taking organs from executed inmates is prohibited, accepting organs from inmates who die of other causes while in custody is permitted
Nichole Stallings “An open letter from ASBSU Senator Steven Mercado” in The Arbiter Steven Mercado, ASBSU Senator, wrote a formal letter in The Arbiter both apologizing and justifying the accusations made against him in a previous Arbiter article. The article displayed Mercado’s legal records, showing that he has a possession charge and a frequenting charge-both of which are scheduled to be dropped on the account that he was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. He also has a number of tickets about not having insurance on his car. He says that he understands that it is the journalist’s job to display his private information to the public seeing as he is a person of interest—a celebrity so to speak. He does not blame the arbiter for publishing this information. However, he felt as though he needed to set the record straight. Even though I have no idea who this kid is nor do I care about his record, the fact that he came out and wrote a formal informational letter o the public is very mature. Just by reading the article and learning bit more about him, I have a respect for the kid and would not let his record influence any vote against him. Many people have made mistakes in the past and have learned from them. Mercado talks about how a great characteristic of a leader is that they are open minded and have the ability to earn from their mistakes. They see a problem and they fix it. The past should not be a determiner of what changes can happen in the future.
Idaho Statesman: Downtown Boise eateries want food carts to scram
This past Saturday marked the beginning of the Capital City Public Market in downtown Boise. As with years past, the market hours are from 9:30 to 1:30 and play host to a number of booths all selling different goods and services. However, few expected that the new season would bring with it a backlash of business owners whom wish to change its rules and regulations. Bob Dempsey, owner of Moon’s Kitchen Café, noticed that directly in front of his restaurant stands selling food and drink, which he claims distracted from his business for the day. Now, in a move to prevent further business loss, several local downtown businesses have signed a petition to force these stands to stay 1,000 yards away from all downtown eateries.
I find this to be an interesting article because it really points at the market being the culprit behind Moon’s low sales. However, it seems to me that the idea of competition has been forgotten, and now business owners are looking to eliminate it entirely. For the four hours that the market is open on Saturdays it seems illogical to hold it accountable for slow business in a slow economy. I hope that an understanding can be reached soon, because I feel that competition is necessary in our economy and eliminating helps nobody.
San Diego State’s head coach Rocky Long is a wuss. He is crying because of Boise State University’s “unfair” advantage from the smurf turf. He believes that it takes the visiting team at least a quarter of game play at Boise State University to get a feel of the turf. According to Long, players “track the ball differently” on the “smurf” turf. All of this was said by coach Long during the Mountain West Conference’s coach teleconference on Tuesday. Long is just afraid to lose again to the Boise State Bronco football team like he did back in 1999. In 1999, he was coaching New Mexico State. They lost 20-9 at Bronco Stadium. Boise state put in the blue “smurf” turf back in 1986. Since 2000, the Boise State Bronco’s have gone 69-2 at home. That is the highest home winning record in the country. During Boise State’s 10 year WAC run, the Bronco’s went undefeated at home going 40-0. According to Coach Pete, "Certain places have a mystique that makes it harder to play there, whether it’s the stadium size or the ambiance inside," Boise State coach Chris Petersen said. “If it’s an advantage, great." Let’s let San Diego State’s coach Rocky Long keep pouting because he just simply isn’t this cool. The blue turf has been around for many years and shouldn’t be removed just because coaches get all teary eyed. Boise State isn’t at fault for the fact that other teams just plain and simply suck.
Idaho Statesman: "Motorcyclist dead after collisions with three vehicles Friday evening in Boise; Overland closed east of Cloverdale"
A Friday article from the Idaho Statesman details a tragic accident in which a motorcyclist was killed.
The accident happened, reports say, at around 5:23 p.m. between Cloverdale Road and Canonero Way. In addition to the deceased motorcyclist, 3 other drivers were involved in the accident.
Boise police say that the driver of the motorcycle was moving east on Overland when a minivan pulled out into the street heading the other direction, colliding with the motorcycle.
But the motorcyclist proceeded to then crash into a large pick-up truck and another car heading in the same direction as the minivan.
Police have closed Cloverdale rd. about a mile east of the accident.
Boise man sentenced Thursday for sixth DUI conviction; he faces 10 years in prison after 90-day treatment program
By KATY MOELLER
On November 18, 2010 Boise Police were tipped off to a vehicle driving erratically near Alliance Street and Five Mile. The driver failed several field sobriety tests and blew a .15 blood alcohol level.
John D. Roderick, Jr. was sentenced to up to 10 years in prison this week after pleading guilty to his sixth DUI. He will spend the first 90 days of his sentence in a Correction Alternative Placement Program. Roderick has had five previous DUI convictions, in 1984, 1985, 1996, 2003, and 2007. He has also been convicted three times of driving without privileges.
Roderick is a decorated veteran who has received a purple heart, a Bronze Star, and an Air Medal. Roderick is an alcoholic and has struggled with his drinking for years; he also suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. After completion of the 90-day treatment program Department of Correction officials will make a recommendation to Judge Darla Williamson as to whether Roderick should be sent to prison or released on probation.
Ebenezer Makinde Idaho Statesman Bois State fans will have to pay much more than last year for season tickets. The season ticket prices, which virtually went unchanged last year, will call for increases ranging anywhere from 8 dollars to 35 dollars. Athletic director Gene Bleimeyer pointed at the reasons for the upping in prices, stating that a top ten football program in the country moving into a new conference has made such things like a n ew weight room, bigger budget, and stadium expansion very essential in continuing the dominance of the program. Over 23 thousand fans held season tickets last year, which came to be a record for the school. Another reason for the increased ticket prices include the increase in scholarship costs, and the increase coaching salaries from last year. Ticket prices will now range anywhere from 200 dollars to 700 dollars. Family packages are also available that include two adults and two juniors. “Boise State’s home schedule features four teams that are considered conference title contenders — Nevada of the WAC, Tulsa of Conference USA and TCU and Air Force of the Mountain West. TCU and Air Force will make their first appearances at Bronco Stadium. Wyoming and New Mexico round out the schedule,” the Idaho Statesman reads. Although fans can complain about the hike in prices, it is clear that reporters and writers know that ticket holders will remain loyal because of the increase in competition that will be available in the MWC.
Jessica Adamson Six members of a meth ring are sentenced in Boise- Idaho Statesman Jose Gallardo-Dedios, Guadalupe Valenzuela, Jason Thomas Marr, Angel Joel Dedios, Juan Arvizu-Betancourt, and Heidi Tucker were sentenced this week in connection with a meth bust that occurred last year. The members of the large Treasure Valley based meth distribution ring all pleaded guilty in January to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine or possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The group distributed over 100 pounds of meth throughout Southwest Idaho from March 2009 to July of 2010. The remaining members of the ring are scheduled to be sentenced in May. The punishments handed down by the federal court ranged from 188 months in prison to just 12 months and fines ranged from $2 million to $5,000. Several of the sentenced members were Mexican nationals while others were from Star and Weiser. Several local and federal agencies worked together in the investigation. This article just goes to show how prevalent methamphetamine is in Idaho. Although the Idaho Meth Project has been quite successful in helping to lower rates of meth usage, there are still an alarming number of meth busts occurring each year. Besides the danger posed by the drug itself, meth labs are dangerous entities in and of themselves and accidents such as fires and explosions occur frequently. These labs can also pose serious health risks to those exposed to the meth cooking process, especially children. Hopefully the steep fines and jail time imposed on these meth ring members will serve as just as much of a deterrent to meth users and cookers as the Idaho Meth Project’s successful ad campaign.
Sam Alderman Source: idahostatesman.com. According to a release from Thornton Oliver Keller, several retail and residential condos in the Royal Plaza building will be auctioned off. The auction will take place at 1 p.m. on May 7 at the Owyhee Plaza. Over a dozen condos are said to be at the auction. The open houses to view the condos will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 7. With the slump in the economy and housing market, man developers in the past year are turning to auctions to make money off of their condos. In November, nine condos at the Aspen Lofts sold for about 25 percent below their standard price range of $169,000 to $3.5 million. In September, CitySide Lofts sold seven units for undisclosed prices. Those condos list from about $140,000 to $1.5 million, but most average upward of $250,000. The 13 residential condos at the Royal Plaza range from 1,273 square feet to 2,483 square feet with mostly two bedrooms and two baths. Five have outdoor space, and a few come with one available parking space. Rooms on the first floor range from 1,078 square feet to 3,123 square feet, and only two have patios.
Michele Sneed http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/26/green-gyms_n_853847.html Gym Finds A Way to Turn Exercise Into Electricity
A fitness center in Portland, Oregon is now one of many clubs trying to turn workouts into electricity outputs. This output is created when members use the cardio equipment and produce an electrical current set up with watt-catching equipment. When someone works out on these high tech pieces of equipment, they are able to power a flat panel tv and a ceiling fan. This particular fitness club calls itself a Green Microgym because it prides itself on using renewable resources and items within the facility. The 3,000 square foot facility has features such as solar panels, recycled toilet paper, and renewable source flooring. Using the machines to produce the same or more output they use, has become increasingly more popular in recent years. This particular fitness location is extremely popular do to wave of ‘green’ options across the city.
Tornado Spans six states
ReplyDeleteBy Megan Reece
Thirty-six people lay dead, after the worst spring storm ever seen. The storm tracked from Oklahoma to North Carolina. Sixty-seven tornadoes were reported. Three families died in a mobile home park in Raleigh, the Capitol city of North Carolina. Forty miles south in Sanford, cars were flipped over in a Lowes parking lot, while the big box warehouse lay flattened in twisted rubble. A quick thinking manager led 100 people into the back area, where no windows would shatter. No one was injured at Lowes. Regional Vice President-Jeff Blocker stated, “It was really just a bad scene. You’re amazed that no one was injured.” Police found trailers thrown from one end of the street to the other, and trees ripped from the ground, during their search on Saturday in Raleigh. Monica Elliott works at the Brick City Grill nearby. She stated “It’s very, very bad here—we saw a tornado that rode up over the restaurant.” Nearly 250,000 people went without power in Raleigh until Monday when rescue crews began repairing downed lines. Virginia Emergency Management spokesman Bob Spieldenner said one tornado ripped through twelve miles of Gloucester County, claiming three lives, uprooting trees, and turning homes into rubble. Four people in Charlottesville Virginia were rescued unhurt from a car that plunged into deep water on the street. Two people were killed in Waynesboro, when their car ran into flash flooding. Seven people died in Arkansas; seven in Alabama; two in Oklahoma; one in Mississippi: then the storm moved onto Alabama, and Georgia. The governor of North Carolina stated 62 tornados were the worst since 1984, when 22 twisters spawned the state killing 57 people. An Iraq veteran search and rescue volunteer was stunned by what he saw. After doing two tours in Iraq he said the scene in Raleigh was worse than he’s ever seen in Iraq.
Megan Reece is a reporter for http://bsu273.blogspot.com/2011/01/week-2-class-notes-ii.html
She can be reached at 208-856-3412
Jarrod Driskell
ReplyDeleteT/TH
AP/Idaho Press-Tribune
Belly Dancing Sinks NYC Woman’s Disability Claim
A New York City woman who was getting $850 a month in alimony because she was supposedly disabled and unable to work had her payments slashed after her ex-husband spotted online photos of her belly dancing. Brian McGurk went to court after discovering a blog that showed his 43 year old ex-wife belly dancing at a gallery. In other internet postings, she wrote about dancing for several hours every day. The man’s ex-wife, Dorothy McGurk, told the court that the dancing was physical therapy for injuries she suffered in a car accident back in the mid-1990s. However, a county judge did not buy her claim and reduced her payments to $400 per month. The judge also ordered her to pay her ex-husband’s legal fees and 60 percent from the sale of their home.
This article is priceless! When I first read the headline, I was hooked and I had to read the entire article because it sounded hilarious. I love it when people try to pull off a scam and it backfires on them. And that is exactly what happened to Dorothy McGurk. Little did she know that her ex-husband would end up finding her pictures on the internet. I am glad that her ex-husband turned her in to authorities. I know I would. I am also glad that the county judge did not allow her any slack. The judge is making her pay her ex-husband’s legal fees as well as reducing her monthly allotment of alimony.
Shea McClellin
ReplyDeleteTue/Thur
Fires burn across Texas with no end in sight
Dallas (CNN)
This article explains the fires that are currently burning across the state of Texas. There are currently more than a dozen fires that are burning out of control across the state and officials say that there is no stopping them in the near future. An officer with the Texas Forest Service said that he has never seen anything like this before in the state and many people are need to help this matter. The officer said that there re currently of 1,400 people helping at the moment. There are over 700, 000 acres burning in the state and there have been 19 straight days of super dry weather which does not help the situation. Firefighters always plan on having a lot of fire in the spring and summer season, but it the dry heat makes the fires even worse to deal with and not ideal. The firefighters are currently looking for changes in weather patterns or wind shifts so they can start out progress on putting out the fires. The weather service has been trying to help with that process. Changes in wind shifts often help the firefighters deal with putting out huge fires and are a essential part of putting fires out. A man is currently being charged for starting the fires and is being charged with a felony of reckless endangerment which could put him in jail for a long time. The forecast doesn’t look very good in the future so the fire fighters are going to have a tough time dealing with the problem.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/US/04/18/texas.forest.fires/index.html?hpt=T1
Aaron Nelson
ReplyDelete4/22/2011
ESPN.com
The first games of the NBA playoffs kicked off on Saturday. The first games were the Pacers and the Bulls and the Heat and Philadelphia. The higher seed one the game but it was closer than most thought. Both teams won by a combined 13 points, so they were close games. The upsets didn’t come until Sunday when the number one and two seeds Spurs and Lakers both lost their opening at home. This has not happened since 1984-1985 seasons. The Grizzles won their first playoff game in franchise history with their win over the Spurs. The other game of the Lakers and Hornets was a game dominated by Chris Paul. Paul had 33 points 14 assists, and 7 rebounds, Paul is only the 4th man in NBA history to put up those numbers in a playoff game. Despite Kobe’s 34 the Lakers lost by 9, so they will have to make so adjustments for the next game. In the East the magic lost to the Hawks, a team they swept last season in the playoffs, they beat them by an average of 20 points which is the widest points spread of victory in NBA history. Dwight Howard had a franchise record of 46 points and 16 rebounds, but still lost the game by 11 points. The home court this season has not been vital yet, with 3 home teams losing their first games. The first 2 days of the NBA playoffs have been nothing short of amazing, and there are many games to go, so buckle up!
Lindsey Hileman
ReplyDeletePolice: 28-year-old Boise woman caught driving drunk left her 8 year old, infant home alone
- Idaho Statesman
On Saturday night, Boise police arrested a woman for driving under the influence and while conducting their investigation, officers discovered that the woman had left her eight year old and infant at home alone.
The woman was pulled over for driving down the sidewalk on Broadway Avenue. When she failed the field sobriety tests, the officers were so concerned about her safety that they called an ambulance. When she was giving a breathalyzer she registered between .21 - .23 which is almost three times the legal limit.
Not only is this woman facing a DUI charge, but also felony injury to a child. At this point, it is still unknown how long the children had been left alone and what the woman was doing so far away from the home where she left her children. The children were turned over to family members for temporary custody.
Obviously this woman is stupid; I don’t want to spend a lot of time on that. More than anything I feel awful those children, especially the eight year old. First of all, I wonder how many times this has happened before. What can an eight year old do for a crying infant who wakes up in the middle of the night? And how scared the child must have been when the police and social workers had to come remove them from the home to place them in the care of relatives.
Obama: Failure to reduce debt will hurt economy
ReplyDeleteRegan S
TU/TH
This article was about how President Obama is travelling the nation this week giving speeches on the US debt and solutions to fix it. His main focus is on how we can lower our debt without hurting our nation. He says that he believes that if we do not do something soon, the mounting deficits could inflict serious damage on the country. Obama plans of lowering this deficit by “cutting defense spending and health care costs, increasing taxes on the wealthy and protecting priorities he deems untouchable.”
The problem is, that this is easier said than done. The two parties cannot agree on anything, and have been debating over this issue for months. Obama says that he is optimistic, and that he believes the parties will come together to find a solution because “both sides have come together before, and [he] believes they will do it again.”
Republicans in the house are proposing a plan that will cut costs in areas like healthcare and medicade, while increasing taxes on the poor and decreasing them for the rich. Obama says he does not like this plan, and that he can cut just as much cost while still focusing on bettering the middle class. I think that lowering taxes for the rich is absurd. If anyone can afford increased taxes, it’s the rich. Hopefully an outcome will be reached soon so that the federal government doesn’t have to shut down anymore.
Kyle Shirley
ReplyDeletetu/th
Thanks to the watchful eyes of the website VG247, it appears that
Activison may have had a slight security leak, leaving us with our
first look at when to expect the next Black Ops map pack, as well as a
hint of what it may contain. The news of this leak was first broke by
an Australian retailer (hence the May 3 release date listed as 3/5),
which quickly pulled the flyer–likely after receiving an angry phone
call from Activision who has yet to officially confirm the news. It is
important to note, that while the info pictured appears genuine and is
in holding with the previous map pack, this is all still unconfirmed.
There isn’t much more to be said about the news that isn’t on the
flyer. If true, the next downloadable content will feature four new
competitive maps as well as one new zombie map—similar to what the
previous Black Ops downloadable content, “First Strike”, contained.
Many in the industry are hopeful to see new “Zombies” maps as well
given the high number of gamers that initially signed on to play the
map type variant but has since dwindled given the lack of variety.
Regardless of whether or not it is released on May 3, when the DLC
does debut it will hit Xbox Live first, as per the exclusivity
contract between Activision and Microsoft. If the release follows the
past releases, it will then head to PC and PS3 about a month
afterwards.
Whitney Holm
ReplyDelete“Middleton woman who embezzled over 100,000 from Port of Hope placed on five years probation.”
Source: Idahostatesman.com
Bobbi A. George of Middleton, plead guilty to wire fraud last year. She was convicted of stealing over $177,000 by wire fraud. George was stealing from a non-profit company called, Port of Hope. Port of Hope is an organization formed to help those with drug and alcohol addictions. George is also convicted of federal tax fraud. She will now have to serve 6 weeks in jail. She will be required to be under house arrest for the next 8 months on top of her jail serving. She will also be required to do 100 hours of community service. George is required to pay $233,000 in restitution fees. George is only 30 years old. She has a long road ahead of her. There is no explanation of whether or not she will get the funds to repay her crimes.
I think this case is completely unfair. The people that are in prison for one-time drug charges are serving more time than this woman. She had been taking money from a non-profit organization for years. She is getting out of this very easy. She will be able to move on with her life in a matter of years. I do not know how Bobbi George will be repaying such an extravagant amount of money to the state. My hunch is that she will not come up with the money and have to file for bankruptcy. The state of Idaho will be paying for her bad decisions once again.
SYDNEY GILL
ReplyDeleteNew rule tackles bag fees, bumping, flight delays- Idaho Statesman
Flying can be a pain when having to worry about lost luggage or having a flight delayed, but the federal government has put in place new passenger protections. These include refunds for lost luggage and more money when a traveler is bumped from a flight. Airlines will also now have to show their fees and taxes in the prices that they advertise.
These new protections will begin in late August. Ray LaHood, U.S. Transportation Secretary, said that these new rules are being put in place to make sure that travelers are being treated fairly.
No reimbursement will be required if a bag is delivered late. When a passenger is bumped the compensation amount is $400 or $800. Now with the new rule the compensation will rise to $650 and $1,330. Last year the number of passengers bumped from a flight was 65,000. Another 681,000 passengers gave up their seats voluntarily.
Also, this rule will allow travelers to see any of the hidden fees that airlines may not be showing when they are advertising on their websites. This includes the amount for checking-in bags, changing reservations, or upgrading to a different class. Not all airlines are happy about this because they argue that “car dealers and other businesses don’t have to do that.”
A proposal was dropped that would require that all airlines include in legal contracts with customers their promises of customer-service. Even though not everything that consumer advocates asked for was approved, they were happy with the changes that were made.
Idaho Statesmen: QB recruit enjoys visit with Boise State football program; Petersen expects 'intense experience' with Mountain West transition
ReplyDeleteBy: Kelly Sweeney
Hopes for a new quarter back to sign with the Broncos is in the middle of the madness right now. Boise State had prospect Nick Patti from Orlando Florida in town this past Tuesday and Wednesday. Coach Chris Petersen offered Patti in hopes that he would sign right on the spot. Patti has offers from all over, Louisiana Tech, South Florida, Central Florida, and Indiana. Patti does not want to jump the gun and make a decision until after his last season as a high school MVP. Former Bronco Kyle Wilson, told Petersen about Nick from working out in the same facilities over on the east coast. Coach Petersen talked with Patti about the change the Broncos are making into the Mountain West. Patti is very excited but Petersen is nervous. Coach Pete is nervous for the new change for the Broncos. He said it is always hard changing conferences. You do not know the ins and outs of the opponent yet and you are playing at a new place. Although the Broncos are picked to finish on top with TCU and Navy coming to town, Petersen still will not take any body lightly. Coach Pete said he thinks the Broncos will be very excited but he also knows that it is going to be a very intense change; they haven’t been there and done that.
Kristine/Mon
ReplyDeleteReporting and News Writing
News Review-Original Source Los Angeles Times
Two American photo journalists lost their lives in Libya this week. Tim Heatherton whose film Restrepo was nominated for best documentary in 2010 lost his life along with Chris Hondros while on assignment in Libya. They were killed Wednesday in Misurata, a rebel held city in western Libya that has been under siege for weeks by loyalists of Moammar Kadafi.
Hondo’s who was 41 suffered a head injury and was taken to a hospital only die there several hours later. He had received multiple awards, including war photography’s highest honor, the 2005 Robert Capa gold medal. He was a Pulitzer finalist for his work in Liberia.
Heatherington and Hondros were with a group of six photographers who had made their way to the front line. It “felt dangerous so we were trying to get to a safe place,” Guillermo Cervera told reporters.
Heatherington was bleeding out from a wound to the leg as well as a head injury. His brand of photography often straddled the line between journalism and fine art. He sought to bridge the perceptual gap between chaotic events in developing countries and the more privileged worlds of his Western readers.
This student writer hopes that people being informed of these tragedy’s will donate money to a memorial fund or other funds that help those wounded or maimed in the middle east tragedies that continue to wreak havoc. Having just sent a niece and nephew off to Afganistan this week it’s hard to fathom that people will spend their hard earned money to listen to likes of Charlie Sheen.
Put some money where it will matter.
Robert Dean Hall won’t face death penalty in Meridian shooting
ReplyDeleteKatie
Robert Dean Hall on Wednesday pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the March 11 shooting death of local attorney Emmett Corrigan, his wife’s boss. Hall, 42, was indicted by an Ada County grand jury last week. The trial is scheduled to begin November 7th of this year. Prosecutors told the judge Wednesday they wouldn’t seek the death penalty for Hall, who is also charged with using a firearm in the commission of a felony. Late last month, Hall was freed from jail on a $1 million bond. A judge later mandated he stay away from and not attempt to contact his wife, Kandi Hall. Kandi Hall had asked the court to allow contact with her husband, but the judge on Wednesday declined to hear that issue, said Bob Cooper, spokesman for the Idaho attorney general’s office, which is handling the case because Hall worked for Ada County. Despite current appearances, prosecutors have said the Halls’ relationship was in turmoil. Corrigan, 30, and Kandi Hall met with a public defender hours before the shooting so she could ask about how to get a protection order against her husband and how to file for divorce, officials said. Police say Hall confronted his wife and Corrigan at a Meridian Walgreens. Court records say Hall shot Corrigan in the head and chest and then tried to shoot himself. Hall told police he scuffled with Corrigan and that his gun fell out, but he wasn’t sure how Corrigan got shot. Hall was terminated from his job as civilian employee with the Ada County Sheriff’s Office.
Jacy Skeen
ReplyDeleteTu/Th
Retrieved April 21, 2011
http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,14922894,00.html
I found an article on the German website DW-World for this weeks news item. It is talking about the turning age of music, really. There is a huge problem that arose in the music industry, that of people not really buying music anymore, and just getting it off the Internet. With that happening many record stores around the world are having to close their doors, something that hits home for me since I work at the Record Exchange here in Boise. We just had our annual Record Store Day, and brought in more revenue than we do during the Christmas season in just one day!
I think that some of these people, mainly the ones that are not buying the music anymore but downloading it are making a stance that they are not going to allow society to dictate the rules for them. Sort of like the communes, and groups of people that are going back to a “simpler” way of life. Which I think can be a good thing, but I feel like if you are still going to listen to the music, you should pay for it and support it instead of going behind the backs of many people and putting them out a lot of money only to gain something for yourself. But I guess that’s how our world seems to be set up, unfortunately.
Marijane Weitensteiner
ReplyDeleteT/Th 1:40 class
msnbc.com "FBI hunts suspected domestic terrorist after bomb found on Columbine anniversary" By msnbc.com staff and news service reports
Yesterday was the 12th anniversary of the Columbine School Shooting but that was even forshadowed by the finding of a bomb in a Littleton Mall not far from Columbine High School.
The planting of the bomb on the anniversary of such a tragic school shooting is very disterbing, acording to the Jefferson County spokeswoman Jacki Kelley.
The mall was evacuated and closed on Wednesday while the pipe bomb was defused and no one was hurt in the incedent.
The mall was reopened on Thursday and the law enforcement agencies in the area are working on locating a suspicious man that was caught on camera who is a likely suspect.
What motive did this bomber have? We will only learn that once he has been caught.
Larisa Gavrilyuk
ReplyDeleteKillers quest: Allow organ donation after execution
Ore. death row inmate Christian Longo seeks redemption, but state says no
Msnb.com by JoNel Aleccia
Oregon death row inmate is working on a campaign behind bars to donate his organs after he’s executed. He wants to do this to repay society for killing his wife and three young children.
Christian Longo, 37, killed wife and children almost a decade ago and dumped their bodies in the coastal bays. Longo is planned to be executed by lethal injection. Longo said “why go out and waste your organs when you have the potential to save six to 12 lives?” The state denied his request for dropping appeals in exchange for allowing him to donate organs. It’s been denounced in principle as “morally reprehensible” by the nation’s organ donation officials and medical ethics.
Dr. Paul R. Helft, director of the Charles Warren Fairbanks Center for Medical Ethics and Indiana University said “I don’t think we want to be the kind of society that takes organs from prisoners.” He went on saying “To do so would be to use unfree prisoners as a means to an end.”
Longo’s quest, which has a Facebook page and has recently been featured in New York Times op-ed piece, brings up the question that many have. Would this solve the problem that the nation has with shortage of transplantable organs or weather it relies on an innately manipulative or vulnerable population of prisoners.
Jeffery Orlowski, executive director of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, the non-profit group that represents the nation’s 58 regional group said, “it’s impossible to be sure that a person who is behind bars is making a decisions they would make while walking down the street.” Although a survey of organ transplant centers nationwide reveals that while taking organs from executed inmates is prohibited, accepting organs from inmates who die of other causes while in custody is permitted
Nichole Stallings
ReplyDelete“An open letter from ASBSU Senator Steven Mercado” in The Arbiter
Steven Mercado, ASBSU Senator, wrote a formal letter in The Arbiter both apologizing and justifying the accusations made against him in a previous Arbiter article. The article displayed Mercado’s legal records, showing that he has a possession charge and a frequenting charge-both of which are scheduled to be dropped on the account that he was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. He also has a number of tickets about not having insurance on his car. He says that he understands that it is the journalist’s job to display his private information to the public seeing as he is a person of interest—a celebrity so to speak. He does not blame the arbiter for publishing this information. However, he felt as though he needed to set the record straight.
Even though I have no idea who this kid is nor do I care about his record, the fact that he came out and wrote a formal informational letter o the public is very mature. Just by reading the article and learning bit more about him, I have a respect for the kid and would not let his record influence any vote against him. Many people have made mistakes in the past and have learned from them. Mercado talks about how a great characteristic of a leader is that they are open minded and have the ability to earn from their mistakes. They see a problem and they fix it. The past should not be a determiner of what changes can happen in the future.
James Snyder
ReplyDeleteTu/Thu
Idaho Statesman: Downtown Boise eateries want food carts to scram
This past Saturday marked the beginning of the Capital City Public Market in downtown Boise. As with years past, the market hours are from 9:30 to 1:30 and play host to a number of booths all selling different goods and services. However, few expected that the new season would bring with it a backlash of business owners whom wish to change its rules and regulations. Bob Dempsey, owner of Moon’s Kitchen Café, noticed that directly in front of his restaurant stands selling food and drink, which he claims distracted from his business for the day. Now, in a move to prevent further business loss, several local downtown businesses have signed a petition to force these stands to stay 1,000 yards away from all downtown eateries.
I find this to be an interesting article because it really points at the market being the culprit behind Moon’s low sales. However, it seems to me that the idea of competition has been forgotten, and now business owners are looking to eliminate it entirely. For the four hours that the market is open on Saturdays it seems illogical to hold it accountable for slow business in a slow economy. I hope that an understanding can be reached soon, because I feel that competition is necessary in our economy and eliminating helps nobody.
Kyle Blackhurst
ReplyDeleteSan Diego State’s head coach Rocky Long is a wuss. He is crying because of Boise State University’s “unfair” advantage from the smurf turf. He believes that it takes the visiting team at least a quarter of game play at Boise State University to get a feel of the turf. According to Long, players “track the ball differently” on the “smurf” turf. All of this was said by coach Long during the Mountain West Conference’s coach teleconference on Tuesday. Long is just afraid to lose again to the Boise State Bronco football team like he did back in 1999. In 1999, he was coaching New Mexico State. They lost 20-9 at Bronco Stadium.
Boise state put in the blue “smurf” turf back in 1986. Since 2000, the Boise State Bronco’s have gone 69-2 at home. That is the highest home winning record in the country. During Boise State’s 10 year WAC run, the Bronco’s went undefeated at home going 40-0.
According to Coach Pete, "Certain places have a mystique that makes it harder to play there, whether it’s the stadium size or the ambiance inside," Boise State coach Chris Petersen said. “If it’s an advantage, great."
Let’s let San Diego State’s coach Rocky Long keep pouting because he just simply isn’t this cool. The blue turf has been around for many years and shouldn’t be removed just because coaches get all teary eyed. Boise State isn’t at fault for the fact that other teams just plain and simply suck.
From: David Lowenthal
ReplyDeleteIdaho Statesman: "Motorcyclist dead after collisions with three vehicles Friday evening in Boise; Overland closed east of Cloverdale"
A Friday article from the Idaho Statesman details a tragic accident in which a motorcyclist was killed.
The accident happened, reports say, at around 5:23 p.m. between Cloverdale Road and Canonero Way. In addition to the deceased motorcyclist, 3 other drivers were involved in the accident.
Boise police say that the driver of the motorcycle was moving east on Overland when a minivan pulled out into the street heading the other direction, colliding with the motorcycle.
But the motorcyclist proceeded to then crash into a large pick-up truck and another car heading in the same direction as the minivan.
Police have closed Cloverdale rd. about a mile east of the accident.
Emily
ReplyDeleteBoise man sentenced Thursday for sixth DUI conviction; he faces 10 years in prison after 90-day treatment program
By KATY MOELLER
On November 18, 2010 Boise Police were tipped off to a vehicle driving erratically near Alliance Street and Five Mile. The driver failed several field sobriety tests and blew a .15 blood alcohol level.
John D. Roderick, Jr. was sentenced to up to 10 years in prison this week after pleading guilty to his sixth DUI. He will spend the first 90 days of his sentence in a Correction Alternative Placement Program. Roderick has had five previous DUI convictions, in 1984, 1985, 1996, 2003, and 2007. He has also been convicted three times of driving without privileges.
Roderick is a decorated veteran who has received a purple heart, a Bronze Star, and an Air Medal. Roderick is an alcoholic and has struggled with his drinking for years; he also suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. After completion of the 90-day treatment program Department of Correction officials will make a recommendation to Judge Darla Williamson as to whether Roderick should be sent to prison or released on probation.
Ebenezer Makinde
ReplyDeleteIdaho Statesman
Bois State fans will have to pay much more than last year for season tickets. The season ticket prices, which virtually went unchanged last year, will call for increases ranging anywhere from 8 dollars to 35 dollars. Athletic director Gene Bleimeyer pointed at the reasons for the upping in prices, stating that a top ten football program in the country moving into a new conference has made such things like a n ew weight room, bigger budget, and stadium expansion very essential in continuing the dominance of the program. Over 23 thousand fans held season tickets last year, which came to be a record for the school. Another reason for the increased ticket prices include the increase in scholarship costs, and the increase coaching salaries from last year. Ticket prices will now range anywhere from 200 dollars to 700 dollars. Family packages are also available that include two adults and two juniors. “Boise State’s home schedule features four teams that are considered conference title contenders — Nevada of the WAC, Tulsa of Conference USA and TCU and Air Force of the Mountain West. TCU and Air Force will make their first appearances at Bronco Stadium. Wyoming and New Mexico round out the schedule,” the Idaho Statesman reads. Although fans can complain about the hike in prices, it is clear that reporters and writers know that ticket holders will remain loyal because of the increase in competition that will be available in the MWC.
Jessica Adamson
ReplyDeleteSix members of a meth ring are sentenced in Boise- Idaho Statesman
Jose Gallardo-Dedios, Guadalupe Valenzuela, Jason Thomas Marr, Angel Joel Dedios, Juan Arvizu-Betancourt, and Heidi Tucker were sentenced this week in connection with a meth bust that occurred last year. The members of the large Treasure Valley based meth distribution ring all pleaded guilty in January to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine or possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The group distributed over 100 pounds of meth throughout Southwest Idaho from March 2009 to July of 2010. The remaining members of the ring are scheduled to be sentenced in May. The punishments handed down by the federal court ranged from 188 months in prison to just 12 months and fines ranged from $2 million to $5,000. Several of the sentenced members were Mexican nationals while others were from Star and Weiser. Several local and federal agencies worked together in the investigation.
This article just goes to show how prevalent methamphetamine is in Idaho. Although the Idaho Meth Project has been quite successful in helping to lower rates of meth usage, there are still an alarming number of meth busts occurring each year. Besides the danger posed by the drug itself, meth labs are dangerous entities in and of themselves and accidents such as fires and explosions occur frequently. These labs can also pose serious health risks to those exposed to the meth cooking process, especially children. Hopefully the steep fines and jail time imposed on these meth ring members will serve as just as much of a deterrent to meth users and cookers as the Idaho Meth Project’s successful ad campaign.
Sam Alderman
ReplyDeleteSource: idahostatesman.com.
According to a release from Thornton Oliver Keller, several retail and residential condos in the Royal Plaza building will be auctioned off. The auction will take place at 1 p.m. on May 7 at the Owyhee Plaza. Over a dozen condos are said to be at the auction. The open houses to view the condos will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 7.
With the slump in the economy and housing market, man developers in the past year are turning to auctions to make money off of their condos.
In November, nine condos at the Aspen Lofts sold for about 25 percent below their standard price range of $169,000 to $3.5 million. In September, CitySide Lofts sold seven units for undisclosed prices. Those condos list from about $140,000 to $1.5 million, but most average upward of $250,000.
The 13 residential condos at the Royal Plaza range from 1,273 square feet to 2,483 square feet with mostly two bedrooms and two baths. Five have outdoor space, and a few come with one available parking space. Rooms on the first floor range from 1,078 square feet to 3,123 square feet, and only two have patios.
Michele Sneed
ReplyDeletehttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/26/green-gyms_n_853847.html
Gym Finds A Way to Turn Exercise Into Electricity
A fitness center in Portland, Oregon is now one of many clubs trying to turn workouts into electricity outputs. This output is created when members use the cardio equipment and produce an electrical current set up with watt-catching equipment. When someone works out on these high tech pieces of equipment, they are able to power a flat panel tv and a ceiling fan.
This particular fitness club calls itself a Green Microgym because it prides itself on using renewable resources and items within the facility. The 3,000 square foot facility has features such as solar panels, recycled toilet paper, and renewable source flooring.
Using the machines to produce the same or more output they use, has become increasingly more popular in recent years. This particular fitness location is extremely popular do to wave of ‘green’ options across the city.