www.silverstatenews.com

Spring Edition 2009

All New Stories To Remain One Additional Week

Updated March 31, 2009

Link Takes You To The New York Times Online:

"The judge's whim is all that mattered in that courtroom. The law was basically irrelevant."

- MARSHA LEVICK,  the legal director of the Juvenile Law Center, on two
Pennsylvania judges who sent thousands of juveniles to
detention centers for $2.6 million in kickbacks.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Judges' Kickback Scheme Thrived Despite Red Flags

By IAN URBINA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Residents of Luzerne County, Pa., wondered what led two judges to send thousands of juveniles to detention centers in return for kickbacks -- and why they weren't stopped.

Silver State News Alerts Archives

News Alerts!

No News Alerts as of March 31, 2009

Last News Alert March 24, 2009

Updated March 31, 2009

From the International Air Transportation Association (IATA)

Las Vegas McCarran’s gamble on StB ("Simplifying the Business") pays off


McCarran International Airport captures the spirit of the city that it serves: trail blazing, innovative and centred around the customer. “Being customer service oriented is a way of life for us,” explains Samuel Ingalls, Assistant Director of Aviation Systems at LAS. “Most of our travellers are discretionary travelers.”

And the airport isn’t shy about taking things forward. LAS is one of the leading StB airports worldwide. “StB initiatives fit in perfectly with our twin goals of customer service and efficiency,” adds Ingalls. “We’re focused on using technology where it makes sense.”

CUSS (common use self-service) kiosks were the first StB initiative for LAS. The airport began issuing CUSS with 12 different carriers in 2003. Today over 28 million boarding passes have been issued using CUSS kiosks. In fact, CUSS kiosks are the only type of kiosks that exist at LAS. And the service isn’t only available at the airport. Nineteen check-in kiosks are located at hotels throughout the city, offering travellers added convenience.

LAS is working closely with the BCBP (bar coded boarding passes) project team to eliminate magnetic stripe boarding passes completely, ahead of the IATA 100% BCBP mandate in 2010. The airport is a leader in the implementation of mobile BCBP. Three carriers – Continental, Delta and Northwest - use mobile BCBP at LAS, offering passengers paperless travel from check-in to boarding.

Bar coded boarding passes enable IATA’s Fast Travel programme – four projects that give the passenger more control, choice and speed throughout their airport journey. McCarran was a pilot participant for Fast Travel, helping to prove the business case for industry action in this area. One of the Fast Travel projects, self-boarding, has already been tentatively designed into McCarran’s new Terminal 3, scheduled to open in 2012.

Customers are happy with StB initiatives at LAS. In the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates' North American Customer Satisfaction Survey, McCarran tied with Orlando International Airport for second place among large airports in overall customer satisfaction. McCarran garnered the top spot in the areas of check-in and baggage check.

“What makes StB so valuable for us is the industry collaboration it offers and the resulting win-win solutions,” says Ingalls. “When it comes to setting industry standards, it’s important to maintain a broad perspective. After all, airlines and airports don’t know everything about each other, and we are able to add the airport perspective.”

McCarran was active in the CUSS and RFID working groups, helping to define the IATA standards around these initiatives prior to implementing them. Indeed, those standards, and their associated recommended practices, have helped the airport avoid large additional new facility costs and keep charges down for air carriers.

“Sometimes fierce competition is appropriate, but in certain areas, like technical standards, collaboration is key,” adds Ingalls. “StB shows that collaboration makes great sense in harmonising systems and keeping costs down. And that’s what we all need in this economic environment.”

Updated March 26, 2009

March 26, 2009

Grey Hautaluoma
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-0668
grey.hautaluoma-1@nasa.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY: M09-048

NASA BRINGS ORION SPACECRAFT TO NATIONAL MALL FOR PUBLIC VIEWING

WASHINGTON -- NASA will showcase the next generation of spacecraft
that will return humans to the moon in a day-long public event March
30 on the National Mall in Washington. The full-size mockup of the
Orion crew exploration vehicle will be parked on the Mall between 4th
and 7th Streets, SW, in front of the National Air and Space Museum.
Reporters are invited to attend a briefing by the vehicle at 10 a.m.
EDT.

The spacecraft mockup is on its way from water testing at the Naval
Surface Warfare Center's Carderock Division in Bethesda to open water
testing in the Atlantic off the coast of the Kennedy Space Center in
Florida. The goal of the operation, dubbed the Post-landing Orion
Recovery Test, or PORT, is to determine what kind of motions the
astronaut crew can expect after landing, as well as conditions
outside for the recovery team.

NASA engineers and personnel will be available all day at the National
Mall event to answer questions about the Orion crew module and the
Constellation program.

Orion is targeted to begin carrying humans to the International Space
Station in 2015 and to the moon in 2020. Along with the Ares I and
Ares V rockets and the Altair lunar lander, it is part of the
Constellation Program that is developing the country's next
capability for human exploration of the moon and further destinations
in the solar system.

For more information about the Orion crew capsule, visit:


http://www.nasa.gov/orion


For information about the Constellation Program, visit:


http://www.nasa.gov/constellation

Chief Justice Hardesty Delivers State of the Judiciary Address


Release Date: March 25th, 2009

In his State of the Judiciary address, Nevada Supreme Court Chief Justice James W. Hardesty declared the state’s court system to be sound and highlighted its many achievements while acknowledging its growing challenges.

“I am excited about the future of the Judicial Branch in Nevada. I am proud that our courts continue to meet the challenges placed before us and are providing real solutions for today’s problems,” Chief Justice Hardesty stated. “Nevada’s Judges and court staff are motivated, enthusiastic, innovative, and engaged in making this branch of government the best that it can be.”

The State of the Judiciary address was presented to a joint session of the Nevada Legislature on Tuesday, March 24, 2009. A copy of the speech can be downloaded from the Supreme Court website (CLICK HERE) To listen to the audio file (CLICK HERE)

Chief Justice Hardesty acknowledged that “the responsibilities of the Judiciary have increased in ways we would not have imagined just two decades ago. Increasingly, our citizens are turning to the courts to secure assistance in a variety of complex, civil and even social problems.”

He praised the highly successful specialty courts – primarily drug and mental health courts – and recounted successful cases in Elko, White Pine, and Clark Counties. He also talked about the Women In Need (WIN) Court and Habitual Offender Prevention and Education (HOPE) Court in Las Vegas and the success of the DUI Courts throughout the state.

The Chief Justice also touted the Business Courts, calling it “one of my favorite success stories.”

“Business Courts keep companies in business and Nevadans working,” he said.

He noted the courts have been facing the challenges of complex construction defect and medical malpractice cases that can take weeks or months in trial to resolve. He added that “The Judiciary is facing yet another case management crisis in Clark County – the well publicized endoscopy litigation. Through February of this year, 446 cases involving thousands of individuals have been filed, presenting a significant challenge to the judicial system.”

The Chief Justice pointed out that family law cases now comprise more than half of all civil cases and judges are tasked with resolving those cases when both parties often are representing themselves.

Chief Justice Hardesty, however, told legislators that growing caseloads and limited resources will make it difficult for judges to continue resolving many cases in a timely manner.

“In my view, the vision for Nevada’s Judicial Branch today is to be proactive in the management of its cases, innovative in its approach to dispute resolution, creative in its efforts to provide access to our courts, sensitive to the needs of people who come before us, accountable for our behavior and decisions, fiscally responsible and transparent in all that we do,” he stated in his address.

Chief Justice Hardesty also focused on the efforts of the courts to assist in the state’s budgetary struggles. He pointed to the recently completed traffic amnesty program at Las Vegas Township Justice Court that brought in $5.4 million for Clark County and the State of Nevada. An additional 9,600 individuals established payment plans to pay $5.8 million in outstanding fees and fines. Another 10,000 individuals have requested traffic court dates to deal with their outstanding cases.

The Chief Justice reminded the lawmakers that the Nevada Supreme Court reverted almost $2 million to the General Fund for fiscal year 2008, or 23% of the general fund appropriation to the Court excluding statutorily set judicial compensation. He projected that the Supreme Court could revert another $2.2 million for fiscal year 2009, or 24% of the Court’s general fund appropriation excluding judicial compensation.

After emphasizing at several points in the address that the courts are struggling with insufficient resources, Chief Justice Hardesty asked the Legislature to consider a proposal to increase filing fees on civil cases to fund additional judges or provide for other judicial needs.

He also advocated for the continued funding of the Senior Judge Program and for a Constitutional amendment to create an Intermediate Appellate Court in Nevada.

CLICK HERE FOR MP3 AUDIO

March 25, 2009

GOVERNOR TO ACCEPT ALL UNEMPLOYMENT STIMULUS FUNDS


Carson City - Governor Jim Gibbons today announced he will accept all unemployment funds available to Nevada in the Stimulus Package. The total amount available to Nevada in unemployment insurance stimulus dollars is over $291 million. Governor Gibbons has already accepted a large segment of Stimulus Package funds to provide extended benefits to unemployed men and women in Nevada. The Governor was reluctant to accept $77-million dollars that would require an expansion of coverage to people not previously eligible for unemployment benefits. The Governor was concerned that Nevada businesses would be left to cover the cost of expanded coverage when stimulus dollars run out. However, the federal government has recently assured states that the expanded coverage base can be retracted in the future, before funding for such coverage becomes a permanent state obligation.

“As our economic crisis deepens, Nevadans are suffering because of layoffs, business closings and other cutbacks,” Gibbons said, “We have the responsibility to do everything we can to help our unemployed workers get through these difficult times, even if that means passing legislation that we would not necessarily approve during prosperous times.” Gibbons noted, “I’m willing to approve this expanded coverage with the understanding that the issue will be revisited in a future legislative session before federal dollars expire. Our citizens deserve all the help we can find while they try to cope with unexpected misfortunes.”

Governor Gibbons will work with legislators to develop a plan that will provide financial relief to those in need now, without penalizing businesses in the future.

# # #

March 26, 2009 01:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Wilmington Trust to Announce Earnings on April 24

WILMINGTON, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wilmington Trust Corporation (NYSE:WL) will announce first quarter 2009 earnings on Friday, April 24, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. (Eastern). Management will host a conference call to discuss results for the quarter and outlook for the future at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern) that day.

To access the call from within the United States and Canada, dial 877-407-8031. Callers outside the United States and Canada should dial 201-689-8031. No passcode is necessary. Supporting materials, financial statements, and simultaneous streaming of the conference call audio will be available at www.wilmingtontrust.com.

A rebroadcast of the conference call will be available from 1:00 p.m. (Eastern) on Friday, April 24, until 11:59 p.m. (Eastern) on Friday, May 1. To access the call from within the United States and Canada, dial 877-660-6853. Callers outside the United States and Canada should dial 201-612-7415. Use account #286 and replay ID #318484.

About Wilmington Trust

Wilmington Trust Corporation (NYSE:WL) is a financial services holding company that provides Regional Banking services throughout the mid-Atlantic region, Wealth Advisory Services for high-net-worth clients in 36 countries, and Corporate Client Services for institutional clients in 88 countries. Its wholly owned bank subsidiary, Wilmington Trust Company, which was founded in 1903, is one of the largest personal trust providers in the United States and the leading retail and commercial bank in Delaware. Wilmington Trust Corporation and its affiliates have offices in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Vermont, the Cayman Islands, the Channel Islands, London, Dublin, Frankfurt, Luxembourg, and Amsterdam.

March 26, 2009 01:24 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Capella Announces Closing of Shares for Debt Settlement


VANCOUVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CAPELLA RESOURCES LTD. (TSX-V: KPS) (“Capella” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that further to the Company’s news release of March 4, 2009 and March 24, 2009, the Company has settled a total of $319,997.72 of debt (the “Shares for Debt Settlement”) with certain non-arm’s length and arm’s length parties by the issuance of 1,830,000 common shares of the Company (the “Shares”) at a deemed price of $0.06 per Share, 2,155,872 Shares at a deemed price of $0.0975 per Share and 1,917,179 share purchase warrants (the “Warrants”) exercisable on or before March 25, 2011 at a price of $0.15 per Share.

All Shares issued under the Shares for Debt Settlement together with any Shares issuable on the exercise of the Warrants have a hold period expiring July 26, 2009.

About Capella Resources Ltd.

Capella Resources Ltd. is a publicly traded, junior exploration and mineral development company with a strong portfolio of precious and base metal projects in Chile, USA and Atlantic Canada. The Company has a 100% interest in the Lajitas and Nevada gold-copper properties located in the Maricunga Gold and Copper District and approximately 700 kilometres northwest of Santiago, Chile. The properties comprise ten exploration claims and six exploitation claims totalling a cumulative 3,500 hectares in area. The Company holds a 100% interest in the Tinton Gold Project located 15 kilometres west-northwest of the famous and historic Homestake Mine in the Black Hills at Lead, South Dakota. The Tinton property consists of 1,270 hectares contained in 157 unpatented mining claims.

The Company also holds over 24,750 mineral exploration claims covering an aggregate land area of over 1.04 million acres (422,800 hectares) in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador).

CAPELLA RESOURCES LTD.
per: Richard Bachman,
Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Geological Officer

Not for distribution to the United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Southwest Airlines Announces Tentative Agreement With Flight Attendants

Date: 3/26/2009 2:00:00 PM

DALLAS, March 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Southwest Airlines announces
today that the Company has reached a tentative agreement with the Transport
Workers Union (TWU) Local 556, representing more than 9,800 Southwest Flight
Attendants. The tentative agreement is for a new, four-year contract through
May 31, 2012. The current contract became amendable on May 31, 2008. Southwest
Airlines and the TWU 556 began contract negotiations in May 2008.

"We are pleased with this mutually beneficial contract that delivers
enhancements to pay and benefits for our hard working Flight Attendants," said
Daryl Krause, Senior Vice President of Customer Services. "This agreement
demonstrates TWU 556's commitment to maintain Southwest's unique Culture,
competitive position, and financial strength during these challenging economic
times."

Earlier this morning, the TWU 556 Board voted for the Tentative Agreement
to be presented to the Flight Attendants for their vote. The TWU 556
membership will be given the full details of the agreement and will have the
opportunity to vote on ratification in the next few weeks.

Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of
domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 65 cities (will begin service
to Boston Logan in Fall 2009) in 33 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest
currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000
Employees systemwide.

http://www.southwest.com/

First $2,400 of Unemployment Benefits Tax Free for 2009

WASHINGTON — All or part of unemployment benefits received in 2009 will be tax free for many unemployed workers, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

“This morning we learned that a record 5.6 million people were receiving unemployment benefits in the middle of March. This underscores the need for the relief provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which includes making the first $2,400 of unemployment insurance exempt from tax,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. “I urge all unemployed workers to take this special tax break into account as they plan their tax withholding and quarterly estimated tax payments for the year. This change offers a helping hand to millions of Americans who are out of work and struggling to make ends meet.”

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, enacted last month, every person who receives unemployment benefits during 2009 is eligible to exclude the first $2,400 of these benefits when they file their tax return next year. For a married couple, the exclusion applies to each spouse, separately. Thus, if both spouses receive unemployment benefits during 2009, each may exclude from income the first $2,400 of benefits they receive.

The new law doesn’t affect the return taxpayers are filling out now. Unemployment benefits received in 2008 and prior years remain fully taxable.

Unemployed workers can choose to have income tax withheld from their unemployment benefit payments. Withholding on these payments is voluntary. However, choosing this option may help avoid a surprise year-end tax bill or a possible penalty for having paid too little tax during the year. Those who choose this option will have a flat 10 percent tax withheld from their benefits.

Unemployed workers who expect to receive more than $2,400 in benefits this year should consider having tax withheld from their benefit payments in excess of that amount. Those unemployed workers who have already chosen to have tax taken out of their benefits, should consider the $2,400 exclusion in determining whether to continue to have tax withheld.

Use Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request, or the equivalent form provided by the payer to request withholding to begin or end. Form W-4V is also available on IRS.gov or by calling the IRS toll-free at 1-800-TAX-FORM (829-3676).

Related Items:

• IRS Information Related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

March 26, 2009

G. Michael Green
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-7305
g.m.green@nasa.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY: M09-040

CELEBRATE APOLLO: NASA COMMEMORATES THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY

WASHINGTON -- NASA is planning a number of activities and events in
2009 as America nears the 40th anniversary of the first moon landing
on July 20. The events will celebrate the Apollo Program, its
accomplishments, and the benefits to our lives today.

"Celebrate Apollo: Exploring the Moon, Discovering Earth" is an effort
to engage the public and disseminate information about NASA's
historic, current and future missions. Several items have been
developed to aid the celebration, including an Apollo 40th
anniversary logo, calendar of events and Web site.

The site NASA developed specifically for the Apollo 40th anniversary
includes the special anniversary logo, an interactive feature about
"Moon Trees" grown from seeds that flew on the Apollo 14 mission, and
a "First Footprints" toolkit for use throughout the anniversary,
which includes downloadable videos, images and events listings.
NASA's official Apollo 40th anniversary Web site is located at:

http://www.nasa.gov/apollo40th

NASA's Apollo missions Web site provides easy access to various NASA
resources and multimedia about the Apollo story, the program and the
history of human spaceflight, including gallery of images from the
Apollo program. The Apollo site is online at:

http://www.nasa.gov/apollo

NASA also has developed an interactive Apollo Program feature. On the
anniversary of each Apollo mission, NASA posts a new feature that
allows users to relive each mission with video, photos and a unique
animated comic. The feature can be found at:

http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/apollo40

For more information about NASA and agency programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov

JSC2009-E-049821 (February 2009) --- Attired in Russian Sokol launch and entry suits, cosmonaut Gennady Padalka (center), Expedition 19/20 commander; astronaut Michael Barratt (right), Expedition 19/20 flight engineer; and U.S. spaceflight participant Charles Simonyi take a break from training in Star City, Russia to pose for a portrait.

Photo credit: Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center

March 26, 2009


NEW ASTRONAUT CREW LAUNCHES TO INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

HOUSTON -- The 19th crew to live and work aboard the International
Space Station launched into orbit Thursday morning from the Baikonur
Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, aboard a Soyuz spacecraft. NASA astronaut
Michael Barratt, Russian cosmonaut Gennady Padalka, and spaceflight
participant and U.S. software engineer Charles Simonyi lifted off at
6:49 a.m. CDT.

They are scheduled to dock with the station at 8:14 a.m. Saturday,
March 28. Padalka will serve as commander of Expeditions 19 and 20
aboard the station. Barratt will serve as a flight engineer for those
two missions. Padalka and Barratt's other crewmate is Koichi Wakata
of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. He arrived to the station
March 17 on space shuttle Discovery.

Simonyi, flying to the station under a commercial agreement with the
Russian Federal Space Agency, previously visited the complex in April
2007. He is the first spaceflight participant to make a second flight
to the station and will spend 10 days aboard. Simonyi will return to
Earth April 7 with Expedition 18 Commander Michael Fincke and Flight
Engineer Yury Lonchakov, who have been on the station since October
2008.

The Expedition 19 crew will continue science investigations and
prepare for the arrival of the rest of the station's first six-person
contingent. Roman Romanenko of the Russian Federal Space Agency,
Frank De Winne of the European Space Agency and Canadian Space Agency
astronaut Bob Thirsk will launch from Baikonur on May 27, arriving at
the station on May 29. After all the astronauts are aboard,
Expedition 20 will begin, ushering in an era of six-person station
crews. This mission also will be the first time the crew members
represent all five International Space Station partners.

For more information about the space station and how to view it from
Earth, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/station

~~~~~~~~~~

SPACEFLIGHT PARTICIPANT CHARLES SIMONYI

Charles Simonyi was born in Budapest, Hungary. He left his homeland at 17 to work as a computer programmer in Copenhagen, Denmark. He moved to the United States in 1968 and earned his B.S. in engineering and mathematics from the University of California at Berkeley and his doctorate in computer science from Stanford University. From 1972 to 1980, he worked at Xerox Corp.’s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), where he created the first WYSIWYG (what-you-see-is-what-you-get) text editor, called Bravo.

In 1981, Simonyi joined a start-up company called Microsoft where he developed software. In his 20 years there, Simonyi held the titles of director of application development, chief architect, and distinguished engineer. He led the teams that developed Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and other successful software applications.

Simonyi left Microsoft in August 2002 to found Intentional Software Corp., a software engineering firm. The company is based in Bellevue, Wash.

Simonyi gained his American citizenship in 1982.

His boyhood interest in space resulted in his selection as Hungary’s Jr. Astronaut at age 13, for which he won a trip to Moscow and met one of the first cosmonauts, Pavel Popovich. He is a trained pilot in multi-engine aircraft with current licenses in jets and helicopters and more than 2,000 hours of flying time.

As a software pioneer and aviator, Simonyi brings his passion for flight and engineering to the upcoming 2007 Orbital Spaceflight Scientific Mission. His goals for his mission are to advance civilian space flight, assist space station research, and involve the world’s youth in the science of space travel. He is convinced that one day, humans will travel and live comfortably in space.

Parting View

Suspended in space and backdropped by the blackness of space and the jewel-like blue of Earth sits the International Space Station. This image of the station was taken as STS-119 performed a fly around after undocking.

Image Credit: NASA

March 25, 2009

Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1100
katherine.trinidad@nasa.gov

Candrea Thomas
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468
candrea.k.thomas@nasa.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY: M09-046

SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY SET TO LAND SATURDAY

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The space shuttle Discovery's crew is expected
to complete its mission to the International Space Station with a
landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 1:43 p.m. EDT on
Saturday, March 28. The return to Earth will conclude a 13-day
flight. Nine of those days were spent docked to the station.

During the STS-119 mission, the shuttle and station crews installed
and deployed the final set of solar arrays. The arrays provide the
electricity to fully power science experiments and support the
station's expanded crew of six in May. The flight also delivered
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Koichi Wakata, who
replaced space station crew member Sandra Magnus. She spent more than
four months aboard the station and will return to Earth aboard
Discovery.

The entry flight control team in Mission Control at NASA's Johnson
Space Center in Houston will evaluate weather conditions at Kennedy
before permitting Discovery to return to Earth. Saturday's landing
opportunities at Kennedy are at 1:43 p.m. and 3:19 p.m. If weather
prevents a Kennedy landing Saturday, the secondary landing site at
Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., will be activated Sunday for
consideration as well.

Approximately two hours after landing, NASA officials will hold a
media briefing to discuss the mission. The participants will be:
- Bill Gerstenmaier, NASA associate administrator for Space
Operations, NASA Headquarters, Washington
- Mike Leinbach, NASA space shuttle launch director, Kennedy

After touchdown in Florida, the astronauts will undergo physical
examinations and meet with their families. The STS-119 crew is
expected to hold a news conference about five hours after landing
Saturday. Both news events will be broadcast live on NASA Television.
Media interested in participating in the news conference at Kennedy
must pick up their accreditation badges Friday.

The Kennedy News Center will open for landing activities at 9:30 a.m.
Saturday and close at 8 p.m. or one hour after the last media event.
The STS-119 media badges are in effect through landing. The media
accreditation building on State Road 3 will be open Saturday from 10
a.m. to noon. The last bus will depart from the news center for the
Shuttle Landing Facility one hour before landing. For updated
information about the landing, call 321-867-2525.

If the landing is diverted to Edwards, news media should call the
Dryden public affairs office at 661-276-3449. Dryden has limited
facilities available for use by previously accredited journalists.

Live updates to the NASA News Twitter feed are added throughout the
shuttle mission and landing. To access the NASA News Twitter feed and
other agency Twitter feeds, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/collaborate

For NASA TV downlink information, schedules and links to streaming
video, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/ntv

For the latest information about the STS-119 mission, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle

For information about the International Space Station, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/station

An F-22 Raptor, like the one shown in this file photo, crashed north of Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., March 25 claiming the life of it's test pilot, David Cooley.

U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Rachel A. Kocin

F-22 crash claims life of veteran Edwards pilot


3/25/2009 - EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- An Air Force F-22 Raptor crash March 25 near here claimed the life of an Air Force veteran and Lockheed Martin test pilot.

David Cooley, 49, of Palmdale, Calif., died when the F-22 he was piloting crashed northeast of the base here.

Mr. Cooley worked as a test pilot with Lockheed Martin, and was employed at the 411th Flight Test Squadron an Edwards Air Force Base.

Mr. Cooley joined Lockheed Martin in 2003 and was a 21-year veteran of the Air Force. He worked at the F-22 Combined Test Force, where a team of Lockheed Martin and Air Force pilots conduct F-22 aircraft testing.

"This is a very difficult day for Edwards and those who knew and respected Dave as a warrior, test pilot and friend," said Maj. Gen. David J. Eichhorn, the Air Force Flight Test Center commander. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Dave and his family as we struggle through, and do all we can to support them."

Edwards AFB officials said they were notified around 10 a.m. that the F-22 had gone down 35 miles northeast of the base. First responders transported Mr. Cooley from the crash scene to Victor Valley Community Hospital in Victorville, Calif., where he was pronounced dead.

A board of officers is investigating the accident through an Accident Investigation Board, whose findings will be released to the public upon completion.

Tech. Sgt. Ismael Lopez inspects an MQ-9 Reaper for cracks and other damage March 13 at Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan. Sergeant Lopez is a quality assurance technician with the 62nd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron.

U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr.

Airmen demonstrate unmanned aircraft not merely "drones"

by Staff Sgt. Zachary Wilson
AFCENT Combat Camera News Team

3/25/2009 - KANDAHAR, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- The door to the 62nd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron features a drawing of an MQ-1 Predator armed with Hellfire missiles underscored with the words "We're not drones - we fire back."

Often referred to by reporters as "drones," unmanned aircraft like the MQ-1 Predator and RQ-4 Global Hawk are remotely-flown weapons systems flown both locally and stateside from ground stations using satellite uplinks. They're also far more complex than the U.S. military's relatively more simplified radio-controlled drone aircraft used for aerial target practice, according to unmanned aircraft system professionals.

For the Airmen flying and maintaining the lethal Predator and its big brother, the MQ-9 Reaper, from Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan, and from Creech Air Force Base, Nev., the message is demonstrated to their adversaries on a regular basis.

"(Both the MQ-1 and MQ-9 are weapons-carrying aircraft,) and both have a hunter-killer role in addition to their intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities," said Lt. Col. Scott Miller, the 62nd ERQS commander, who is deployed from the 432nd Air Expeditionary Wing at Creech AFB.

Performing dual-missions of close-air support and ISR taskings, the Predator can stay airborne for more than 12 hours at 50,000 feet and the Reaper can stay up for a longer period of time at even higher altitudes, according to squadron officials. Boasting a full-motion video camera with various modes that can detect enemy movements, the Predator and Reaper also carry the Hellfire missile. In addition to carrying a larger payload of Hellfires, the UAs bring to the fight a set of two 500 lbs. laser-guided bombs that allow operators to not only observe and detect hostile forces, but also eliminate them if called upon to do so.

"Both aircraft can initiate and complete the 'killchain'," Colonel Miller said. "With their ability to loiter for long periods of time over a target, eliminate it, stay on station and then provide the (bomb damage assessment,) they provide continuity to a mission and prove to be invaluable assets."

The aircraft are flown jointly by the 62nd ERQS crews stationed here with the 451st Air Expeditionary Group and by crews back at Creech using satellite uplinks that transfer control from the local pilots who taxi, launch, land and recover the aircraft (all from trailers adjacent to the flightline) and the Creech aviators flying inside of mission control elements performing missions across Afghanistan. British Royal Air Force counterparts also fly the Reaper.

General Atomics contractors perform maintenance on the Reaper while responsibility for Predator maintenance is undertaken by 62nd ERQS Airmen.

"As this aircraft is like 90 percent avionics, it's a pretty unique experience to work on it," said Senior Airman Doug Cox, a 62 ERQS MQ-1 avionics specialist from Creech AFB. "We're asked to do a lot more than our traditional specialties and most of us are trained up on crew chief duties such as performing 60-hour inspections, changing spark plugs, engine oil and things like that."

First Lt. Andrew Dowd, also deployed from Creech AFB as the unit's maintenance officer, agreed.

"This aircraft does not have hydraulic fluid and operates using electro-servos," he said, also noting the aircraft recently reached a 500,000 flight hour milestone. "It's a very unique platform, but of course, when it's all said and done, it's the $1.2 million camera that runs the show."

After the aircraft are airborne and are handed off by the Kandahar crew, Creech aviators perform the majority of traditional mission taskings. However, the 62nd ERQS Airmen increasingly are taking responsibility for executing missions within the local area to aid and protect coalition forces stationed around Kandahar who are fighting the enemy. Sometimes weapons are dropped, demonstrating the lethality and uniqueness of the 62nd ERQS' mission and aircraft to friends and foes alike.

Notably, some missions are often generated to fly only within the local area, putting the responsibility for the entire mission on the shoulders of the Kandahar-based aircrews.

It's great to have a direct impact on the war," said Airman 1st Class Patrick Snyder, an MQ-9 sensor operator who maneuvers the system's cameras and sensors as well as directs its munitions when launched. "We provide over-watch for the Canadians fighting the Taliban and then have coffee with them at the end of day (here at Kandahar.) It really makes us feel connected."

Capt. Ryan Jodi, a B-1 pilot who now flies the Reaper from his cockpit position in a ground control element, also acknowledged his preference for performing missions locally as opposed to Creech.

"I really enjoy doing the launches and landings from here," he said. "It really gives you more of a flying feeling. And doing local missions is also great because we can really appreciate the camaraderie we have with our coalition partners who we live with here."

With spring arriving in Afghanistan, Taliban and Al Qaeda insurgents once again will ramp up hostile operations against coalition forces around the country as they have demonstrated each year during the duration of Operation Enduring Freedom.

However, with the planned increase of forces within the area, that means more assets are on the way, with 62 ERQS leaders preparing for additional aircraft and more mission sorties generated from combatant commanders. With nearly 10 additional Reapers coming to supplement the squadron's approximately dozen MQ-9 aircraft, Colonel Miller says that means more work.

"In 2005, we were generating about two sorties a day," he said. "We've more than quadrupled that now and we are going to expect a lot more coming in the future."

Col. Ted Osowski, the 451st AEG commander, agreed with Colonel Miller on the demand for the ISR hunter/killer platforms in-theater.

"No other asset is more sought after," he said. "Close air support and ISR are very valuable to the ground commanders."

Capt. Ryan Jodoi (rear) flies an MQ-9 Reaper while Airman 1st Class Patrick Snyder controls a full motion video camera March 13 at Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan.

U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr.

An Air Force MQ-9 Reaper from the 62nd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron taxis for take off March 13 at Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, for a mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr.

An Air Force MQ-9 Reaper from the 62nd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron takes off March 13 from Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, for a mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr.

NAMED OFFICIAL PRODUCT OF INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY 2009, CELESTRON'S FIRSTSCOPE PAYS TRIBUTE TO HISTORY'S MOST NOTABLE ASTRONOMERS & SCIENTISTS


TORRANCE, CA – (March 25, 2009) – Celestron® the world's leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, is pleased to announce that their new FirstScope Telescope has been declared Official Product of International Year of Astronomy 2009.

In 1609, world-renowned Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei, introduced an elementary telescope to the growing astronomy community which sparked interest into the mysterious night sky for centuries to come. Four centuries later, in celebration of the International Year of Astronomy 2009, Celestron offers the portable FirstScope Telescope. The FirstScope pays tribute to Galileo Galilei and many of history's most notable astronomers and scientists by displaying their names around the optical tube. We honor the contributions of these men and women, who brought us one step closer to understanding the universe around us. "Celestron's FirstScope pays tribute to the most notable astronomers, who have expanded our knowledge of the Universe. It is this appreciation of the cosmos that we are celebrating in 2009, the International Year of Astronomy. FirstScope promotes widespread access to knowledge of fundamental science through the excitement of sky-observing experiences, one of the IYA2009 goals." said Pedro Russo, IYA2009 Global Coordinator.

The FirstScope is a wonderful keepsake for anyone interested in astronomy. This quality Dobsonian style telescope features a 76 mm aperture reflector optical tube. FirstScope is an ideal entry-level astronomical telescope that is fun and easy to observe with. The user simply navigates the night sky by moving the tube in the direction of their desired object, making the viewing experience a snap! The compact design makes it easy to take with you on your next outdoor adventure. FirstScope is also stylish enough to be a decorative fixture on your bookshelf or desk.

"FirstScope is an ideal telescope for the beginning astronomer. Its tabletop design and quality optical components make it very easy to observe the night sky." said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, President and CEO of Celestron "We are pleased to have the honor of Official Product of International Year of Astronomy 2009 bestowed on this product."

Celestron is proud to be a global sponsor of International Year of Astronomy 2009, as well as the IYA2009 cornerstone event, 100 Hours of Astronomy. 100HA is a worldwide event consisting of a wide range of public outreach activities, live webcasts and sidewalk astronomy events. One of the key goals of 100 Hours of Astronomy is to have as many people as possible look through a telescope as Galileo did for the first time 400 years ago. 100 Hours of Astronomy will take place from April 2-5, 2009 when the Moon goes from first quarter to gibbous, good phases for early evening observing.

Celestron is also a sponsor of the once-in-a-lifetime exhibit, "Galileo, the Medici & the Age of Astronomy" at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, which will feature one of only two of Galileo's original telescopes. This will be the first and only time in history that Galileo's original telescope will leave Italy. The Franklin Institute is also the official host of the 100 Hours of Astronomy kick- off event on April 2nd. "Galileo, the Medici & the Age of Astronomy" exhibit opens to the public April 4th and runs through September 7, 2009.

Visit the following websites for more information on FirstScope and these exciting events:


Celestron FirstScope - http://www.celestron.com/firstscope

International Year of Astronomy - http://www.iya2009.org

100 Hours of Astronomy - http://www.100hoursofastronomy.org

The Franklin Institute - http://www.fi.edu


About Celestron

Celestron is the leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron's innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader's Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

# # #

SEE Also:

http://admin.virtualpressoffice.com/SupportingDocContentAccess.do?supportingDocumentId=1000000003667

March 25, 2009


RELEASE: 09-068

NASA'S CONSTELLATION PROGRAM TESTS ORION RECOVERY PROCEDURES

WASHINGTON -- A full-scale mockup of NASA's Orion crew module is being
tested in water under simulated and real landing weather conditions.
Beginning March 23, a Navy-built, 18,000-pound Orion mockup will be
placed in a test pool at the Naval Surface Warfare Center's Carderock
Division in West Bethesda, Md. Ocean testing will begin April 6 off
the coast of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The goal of the operation, dubbed the Post-landing Orion Recovery
Test, or PORT, is to determine what kind of motions the astronaut
crew can expect after landing, as well as conditions outside for the
recovery team. The experience will help NASA design landing recovery
operations including equipment, ship and crew necessities.

The Carderock facility provides a controlled environment for crew
recovery personnel to familiarize themselves with the Orion capsule
before the team tests procedures in the uncontrolled waters of the
Atlantic Ocean.

For the ocean testing, the team will use a space shuttle solid rocket
booster recovery ship to take the mockup out to sea, going further
into rougher conditions each day. A media opportunity to view testing
visible from shore will be scheduled for April 7 at Kennedy.

During the Orion mockup's transportation from Maryland to Florida, it
will make stops for public viewing. Designated opportunities are
March 30 in front of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in
Washington and April 3 at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor's Complex
in Florida.

NASA's Constellation Program, which includes the Orion crew vehicle
and the Ares I rocket that will launch it, is America's
next-generation human spaceflight system that will carry astronauts
to the International Space Station, back to the moon and to
destinations beyond.

The Constellation Program's Operations and Test Integration Office at
NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston is leading the PORT effort.
Development of Orion and associated Constellation Program elements is
a joint effort involving every NASA center and partners across the
country. Results of these tests will influence Orion vehicle design
at Johnson and recovery hardware designs under evaluation at Kennedy.

For more information about NASA's Orion crew vehicle, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/orion

For more information about NASA's Constellation Program, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/constellation

Washoe County Board of County Commissioner April Meeting Dates and Times

The BCC will be meeting to hear department budget presentations in addition to its normal meetings. Please note the times below:

4.13.09 9am Department Budget Presentations (BCC Chambers) – approximate end time noon

4.14.09 10am BCC Meeting (BCC Chambers) – public hearings 6 p.m.

4.20.09 9am Department Budget Presentations (BCC Chambers) – approximate end time 2:30 p.m.

4.21.09 10am BCC Meeting (BCC Chambers)

4.27.09 10:30am Department Budget Presentations (BCC Chambers) – approximate end time 2:30 p.m.

4.28.09 2pm BCC Meeting (Chambers) – public hearings 6 p.m.

WASHOE COUNTY RECOMMENDED TO RECEIVE $408,214


The State of Nevada’s Community Development Block Grant Advisory (CDBG) Board has recommended that Washoe County receive $408,214 for the Sun Valley Schools Sidewalks project.
The CDBG/Community Development Division of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development (NCED) is tasked with promoting and facilitating community development throughout rural Nevada. The overarching objective is to build prosperity and enhance the quality of life in rural Nevada. Sun Valley is eligible to receive to CDBG funds, as it lies in an unincorporated area of Washoe County and has 51% or more of the citizens are low-to moderate income.

Currently, there are several elementary schools in Sun Valley that do not have sidewalks around the schools. Additionally, there are numerous uncovered culverts alongside streets leading to the area elementary schools.

This project has been a priority for Washoe County and Sun Valley for several years. Washoe County has allocated funds and other resources in the past to install some sidewalks in Sun Valley, including using federal funds to install sidewalks along Fifth and Seventh Streets in 1999 and 2005, respectively. This recommended funding will allow the project to complement existing sidewalks as other funding sources previously used have been exhausted. The Governor’s Office has final approval of the CBDG awards which is expected to come this summer. If approved as anticipated, construction could begin the 2010. For more information about the CBDG program, please call: (775) 687-4325.

Related Links:
http://www.expand2nevada.com

U.S. DISTRICT COURT DISMISSES ALL INCLINE PROPERTY TAX CLAIMS AGAINST WASHOE COUNTY;
On March 24, 2009, the United States District Court dismissed a case against Washoe County brought by Incline Village property owners and taxpayers seeking a declaration that Washoe County improperly valued approximately 9,000 parcels of residential property in Lake Tahoe for the 2008/09 tax year. The plaintiffs alleged that Washoe County’s valuations violated the Nevada and United States Constitutions.
In his Order dismissing the case against Washoe County, federal Judge Kent J. Dawson concluded that his court was without jurisdiction to consider the plaintiffs’ claims because Nevada’s statutory process for resolving tax disputes is plain, speedy, efficient and otherwise adequate. After an examination of the full record in the case, Judge Dawson stated that his court “is not the correct venue for the relief Plaintiffs seek.” Judge Dawson further recognized that it is of the utmost importance to all of the states, “that the modes adopted to enforce the taxes levied [by the states] should be interfered with as little as possible.” The Order effectively ends this phase of the litigation between these Incline Village taxpayers and Washoe County.

Previous Court Ruling Also Favorable to Washoe County. In a closely related matter, on March 19, 2009, the Nevada Supreme Court rendered a decision on an appeal of a prior state district court order dismissing relief in a real property tax assessment dispute filed by the Village League to Save Incline Assets on behalf of some Incline Village property owners against the State of Nevada Department of Taxation, the State Board of Equalization, Washoe County and the Washoe County Assessor and Treasurer.

The League has filed numerous lawsuits against the parties named above claiming that Washoe County assessed property in the Lake Tahoe basin using unconstitutional valuation methods that are not consistent with other county assessment methods. The Nevada Supreme Court’s decision overall upholds the state district court’s original ruling on the case which require the League to fully exhaust all available administrative remedies prior to pursuing their claim of unfair property value assessments in the courts. In dismissing the complaint, the Nevada Supreme Court stated that, “neither Village League nor its members had first exhausted their administrative remedies.” The Supreme Court also confirmed the district court’s decision not to provide property tax relief (i.e., tax refunds) to the litigants.

It is Washoe County’s continued belief that the courts will not rule in favor of the League’s claims that property values in Washoe County were out of equalization with other counties, specifically Douglas County. Washoe County has offered numerous times to settle claims with the League for all property owners with the same facts as those already decided in an effort to end the continuous litigation which incurs costs both for the litigants and for our taxpayers. No offer has been accepted to date. Attached are more details of why the March 19, 2009 Nevada Supreme Court ruling is favorable to Washoe County.


Incline Property Tax Case

Nevada Supreme Court decision on Incline Property Tax Refund Case

On March 19, 2009, the Nevada Supreme Court rendered a decision on an appeal of a prior district court order dismissing a declaratory and injunctive relief action in a real property tax assessment dispute filed by the Village League to Save Incline Assets against the State of Nevada Department of Taxation, the State Board of Equalization, Washoe County and the Washoe County Assessor and Treasurer.

Washoe County is pleased with the Supreme Court’s overall finding that the state district court was correct in dismissing the complaint because “neither Village League nor its members had first exhausted their administrative remedies.” (source: pg 2 of 3/19/09 Nevada Supreme Court decision)

Other highlights of the Nevada Supreme Court’s decision are:

The Village League’s 2003 complaint filed in state district court contained 5 causes of action. After Supreme Court review of the dismissal of the Village League’s entire suit by the trial court, only one portion of the complaint involving the alleged failure of the Nevada State Board of Equalization remains intact.

The Supreme Court’s decision completely preserves the administrative processes that taxpayers and local governments have used for decades to resolve problems with property tax assessments.

The Court found “any challenges to tax assessments based on improper property valuations should have been raised before the county board [of equalization]” and that “the district court properly dismissed the complaint with respect to those claims for failure to exhaust administrative remedies.”

The Court concluded that in order to properly challenge a taxation methodology, the Village League was required to exhaust the remedies available under the administrative processes before resorting to the courts. That doctrine, the exhaustion doctrine, gives administrative agencies an opportunity to correct mistakes and serves the valuable purpose of resolving disputes without judicial involvement and saving judicial resources.

The Court wrote: “Because the majority of Village League’s complaint ‘related to’ the payment of property taxes—as exemplified by its requests for refunds—its failure to first seek redress from the State Board of Equalization rendered those issues nonjudiciable.”

The Village League complains that the State Board of Equalization failed to equalize property valuations between Washoe County and Douglas County which both contain portions of Lake Tahoe. The Supreme Court specifically noted the Village League failed to provide any authority for its request that the district court “declare” a disparity in property valuations. The Supreme Court upheld the district court’s dismissal of the declaratory relief request. In deciding to return the single surviving claim to the district court the Supreme Court found that the district court could have directed an order to the State Board to perform equalization between counties.

Source: Washoe County District Attorney’s Office
March 24, 2009

Related Links:

WC Repository files

INCLINE VILLAGE RESIDENT APPOINTED TO TRPA ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION


Reno, Nevada. March 25, 2009. Upon recommendation by Washoe County District One Commissioner, John Breternitz, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Governing Board appointed Chuck Greene, a fulltime Incline Village resident, to the TRPA Advisory Planning Commission (APC).

“Chuck’s technical education, expertise in television, writing and local history, and influential leadership capabilities are a significant contribution the TRPA Advisory Planning Commission. I greatly appreciate Chuck’s willingness to participate in the Basin’s community building process,” states Breternitz.

Since becoming a fulltime resident of Incline Village in 2001, Greene has participated and served as an officer of many local boards including the Tahoe Rim Trail Association, Board of Nevada Rock Art Foundation, Incline Vision Committee, Independent Incline Committee, and the Incline Village Rotary Club. Regionally, Greene works on the Watershed Sustainability Indicators Committee and has worked on the Incline/Washoe County TRPA Working Group for the update of the TRPA Plan as well as on the Public Lands Working Group. Chuck was also the first President of the Sierra Front Recreation Coalition.

The APC, consisting of 21 members from planning, community, and field experts, provides recommendations to the TRPA Governing Board on technical and scientific issues. The Advisory Planning Commission meets on the second Wednesday of the month beginning at 9:30 a.m. For additional information, please contact the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency at (775) 588-4547 or visit www.trpa.org.

Related Links:

http://www.washoecounty.us

http://www.trpa.org

FREE BUSINESS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP WORKSHOP


If there were a major disaster in our region, would your business survive? Would you be able to recover from a major earthquake, flood or fire?

If the answer to those questions is no, or you don’t even know what the answer would be, you need to attend a free business and local government partnership event to ensure your business will survive.

When: Thursday, April 30, 2009 Time: 10:00 am to Noon Where: Regional Emergency Operations Center (REOC) 5195 Spectrum Blvd. (take 395 North to Parr Blvd., turn left onto Dandini Blvd. (east); continue through roundabout and go north (up the hill) on Spectrum Blvd.)

This free workshop is sponsored by Washoe County Emergency Management, the Reno/Sparks Chamber of Commerce, and the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada. The workshop is facilitated by the Michigan State University’s School of Criminal Justice through funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

To register for this free workshop, please call Cathy Ludwig at (775) 337-5859 or email her at cludwig@washoecounty.us . Registration cutoff is April 21st.

Related Links:

http://www.getreadywashoe.com

NASCAR Sprint Cup 2009 - Las Vegas
Focus on Red Bull Racing

NASCAR Sprint Cup 2009 - Las Vegas

Brian Vickers in traffic during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Shelby 427 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 1, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Photo by Todd Warshaw/Getty Images

Photocredit: (c)Getty Images/Red Bull Photofiles

False charges of attempted murder against resident of Dyer, Nevada. Woman persecuted by enemies in the Fishlake Valley area, including an alcholic Sheriff and a violent-prone Deputy Sheriff, whom aided and abetted woman's adopted daughter into the hands of a Pedophile. Adopted Daughter and third party discuss poisoning woman on audio recording. Woman falsely accused by known Thug, Drug Dealer, cult Leader and Wife Beater, of harassing him. Adopted Daughter admits being in possession of woman's stolen identification cards (Identity Theft). Adopted Daughter found to be unbelievable by California CPS, which none the less proceeds to persecute Woman over the same charges despite their own reports exonerating the Woman.

Civil Rights Violations, Human Rights Violations, Elder Abuse, Abuses Directed Against a Severely Disabled Woman, Pain and Suffering by Victim and Family Members.

Much, much more...

Updated January 3, 2009

Case presently headed for Final hearing but may be continued due to New Discover of additional abuses by, but not limited to, Washoe County Social Services, the Washoe County District Attorneys Office and Child Protective Services.

Involves Human Trafficking and Abuse charges against Washoe County Social Services for attempting to adopt out Woman's children without regard to her Civil Rights. Human, Children's Rights and Civil Rights Violations. Obstruction of Justice, Threatening and Tampering with Witnesses, Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) violations. Mandate of Law not being followed by Washoe County Social Services and CPS.

Abuses by Washoe County involving interference in family quality time at School Sporting events. Includes abuses by group known as "The Children's Cabinet" wherein violent teen, who struck and was abusive to his Mother, was removed from the Home based on allegation that Mother had given 4-year-old daughter alcohol. Charge is denied. Belief is that child took a drink from a soda can belonging to teen's younger brother and that alchohol was hidden inside.

Mother and Step-father later learned after the teen was removed from the home that he had been dealing illicit drugs with a younger brother and attempted to stop both from this criminal misconduct.

Older teen now an adult after turning age 18. Reportedly dealing drugs out of a foster home. Reportedly was dealing drugs while at The Children's Cabinet and before move into foster home. Told Mother how they would sneak out through a window opened just so far to avoid setting off an alarm.

Adult 18 year-old now reported as having illicit relations with underage girl at her home The 18-year-old's Mother indicates that he will never get into trouble since the underaged girl's own Mother ~ a former stripper ~ is being supplied with drugs by the 18-year-old.

18-year-old's Mother falsely accused by him and his younger brother while teens, of giving alchohol to her husband's four-year-old daughter. Mother denies the charge. Husband declares her innocent.

Mother ordered by Child Protective Services to Divorce Father. Suffering retaliations from CPS despite separation from father caused by Harassment and Abuse at the hands of Washoe County Social Services and CPS workers, to include, The Children's Cabinet.

Conflicts of Interest ~ Director of Washoe County Social Services is on the Board of The Children's Cabinet, along with other Washoe County officials, including Judges. Group sponsored by Scolari's Food & Drug Company, currently facing charges of Sexual Harassment in EEOC vs Scolari's.

Identity Withheld Temporarily at Request of Attorney.

More...

Updated January 3, 2009

Washoe County, Nevada, officials attempting to try man on false charges of improperly touching an underaged girl, his step-daughter. The man has been "found" to have been properly served and "found Guilty" of the charges, however, a major problem exists in the fact that he was not served nor present in the court room during the hearing!

Involves multiple Civil Rights violations. Also, Human Trafficking and Abuse charges against Washoe County Social Services for attempting to taint Defendant's reputation with Child Abuse charges and to take away child/step-children without regard to Defendant's Civil Rights.

Human, Children's Rights and Civil Rights Violations. Obstruction of Justice, Threatening and Tampering with Witnesses, Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) violations. Mandate of Law not being followed by Washoe County Social Services and CPS.Human, Civil Rights violations directed against the Father, his child and step-children.

In act of revenge, Female Worker from State of Nevada, Washoe County Social Services, Child Protective Services, offended by being addressed as "C" Word, transmitted case documents illegally and in violation of existing Court orders, as well as Privacy Act, to Defendant's ex-wife.

Ex-wife and her Attorney brought Confidential documents into case. Both Ex-wife and Counsel ordered to return documents to Defendant by first Judge. This did not happen. Judges changed while case in process but before CPS became involved. Washoe County Deputy District Attorney Greg Shannon instructed CPS to stop talking to the man's ex-wife and also told them that they had better not be giving her any information. These instructions were apparently too late as they had already committed their misconduct.

Deputy DA Shannon also allegedly told CPS to release records belonging to the man's new wife in May, 2008. The new wife still does not have the records as of this time of writing, November 19, 2008. The new wife sent Deputy D.A. Shannon a letter requesting that he remind CPS to give her the records. The D.A. (Gammick) called the new Wife's CPS Attorney and told him to tell the Wife to keep her mouth shut. Deputy D.A.

Shannon is now retired.

Second Judge subsequently bars reasonable visitation with daughter based on entry of Confidential documents into the case after first Judge allegedly transferred, though she hears cases in the same Courthouse.

Conflicts of Interest ~ to see daughter under supervised visitation, the man must pay the Rainbow Children's Center by the hour for supervision and all related expenses, this after his ex-wife had initially been ordered to share the expenses. Rainbow Children's Center is a Department of the Solano County District Attorney's Office, in California.

This Father now has to complete an intake with the Rainbow Children's Center, and though they are open every day, they only do intakes on certain days and they will not work with the Father. The ex-wife is ordered to speak with him about the welfare of the child but refuses.

Even if the Father does does what is expected, he will be denied his visits.

The Father is obstructed in his attempts to visit with his child on supervised visitation. Beyond the ex-wife's intransigence, there are allegations that the Rainbow Children's Center personnel have also told the man's ex-wife to never speak to him in regards to visitation. According to his current Wife, Rainbow Children's Center personnel told the ex-wife that is was "best if they handled it."

The current Wife indicated that "that's because they really scewed up (name witheld) intake on the first visit, and then they tired to blame it on the ex-wife.   When we got the ex-wife's story, it seems rainbow did it." 

Identity withheld to protect an innocent man...

Much, much more...

Updated January 3, 2009

Federal cases involving Racketeering and Fraud activities directed against the U.S. Government, The People and their Treasury. Includes Civil Rights violations and allegations of Attempted Murder and now, Negligent Homicide. Human and Civil Rights violations.

Major Fraud Case pending filing on or about January 1, 2009. Service of documents underway.

Conflicts of Interest ~ RARA, RARF and the AAWC represented by State Senator William Raggio and the Jones Vargas Law Firm; Raggio the Father of the AAWC; Jones Vargas Attorneys lobbying Raggio in the Nevada State Senate.

Much, much more...

Updated January 3, 2009

Case involving threats made against the life of Publisher/Editor Mark S. "Bear" Daniels by Dannie G. Serfoss Jr. of the Serfoss Crime Family and his henchmen and hench "women" in this case.

Conflicts of Interest between Judges, Law Enforcement and Serfoss Crime Family. Esmeralda County involvement in crimes.

Updated January 3, 2009

Photographer: Venzin & Bühler via Pilatus Aircraft

Spring 2009 Listings

Nevada Weather

Updated March 31, 2009

~~~~~~~~~~

Updated March 26, 2009

Editor's Note:

~~~~~~~~~~

03/20/2009 ~ SSNS Will be working on links tonight to new pages in order to revamp the old website to accomodate our readers and better reporting of traffic results. We will then begin to update each of the pages with current news information.

~~~~~~~~~~

SSNS is under Reconstruction. The Following Sections Will Become Operational and/or Will Be Updated Throughout The Next 48 Hours...

Posted 03/18/2009

~~~~~~~~~~

03/26/2009 ~ Traffic is increasing slowly and we still remain at a 60% drop off from Janaury and February traffic, however, once the upgrade is completed, we anticipate Silver State News Service will begin climbing back into higher levels of traffic experienced previously since the start-up of publication in 2002.

We are behind on upgrading links due to the detail we need to give the Sports and other sections of Silver State, such as BusinessWire. The page format is simple enough, however there is a substantial amount of news to be processed so we're happily overwhelmed with content and will remain so as long as we're able to step up the pace and get the materials online.

Once organized, the speed of updating our pages should increase proportionally and with more pages to see, more distinct hits will be recorded. Old readers will return and New readers will stumble across us via Google search and word-of-mouth advertising, plus additional advertising links we'll start placing at our other publications soon.

Traffic at our sister publication Aviation & Marine is on record pace within the publication and is today at 256,512 distinct hits and climbing and has surpassed the highest traffic recorded at that publication in its history, which occurred just last month at 224,283 distinct hits.

SSNS is therefore confident that we can turn things around and repeat our latest successes experienced at A&M USA here on these pages, which recorded the ILIPS Group record of 324,000 distinct hits after four years in publication. Likewise, once reorganized, we can bring our other State News and Documentary sites up to the same traffic counts and make them competitive not only with each other, but other publications not owned by and outside of ILIPS Group International.

Please note that further changes are about to occur to the home page to streamline it more for efficiency and effective navigation to internal sections and pages.

That's all for now. Our next progress update will occur on or about April 2, 2009.

~ Ed.

Environmental Issues at Silver State News

Updated March 31, 2009

March, 2009

Current Week: March 26, 2009 thru April 2, 2009

Business Wire News Archive

Bearz' Blog Archives

Message Boards

News Headlines ~ Historic Reno

USS Reno (CL-96)

Outbound in the Golden Gate, while leaving San Francisco Bay, California, 25 January 1944.

Photographed by Naval Air Station Moffett Field, Sunnyvale, California.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center.

USS Reno

(CL-96, later CLAA-96), 1943-1962

Oakland Class Anti-aircraft Cruiser ~ ( CL ) ~ Light Cruiser

Air Racing

Updated March 31, 2009

European Circuit ~ IF1 2009 Schedule

The following information about the 2009 schedule of Air Races in Europe comes to us from Don Berliner at the Society of Air Race Historians at www.airrace.org :

April 25-26 -- North Weald, just northeast of London

May 23-24 -- Menorca, off the east cost of Spain, halfway to Sardinia. A new location.

June 20-21 -- Compton Abbas, west of England, SW of Salisbury

July 25-26 -- Abbeville, France, NW of Amiens

August 15-16 -- Sywell, NW of Bedford, England. Kings Cup Race and new Bleriot Cup Race

September 5-6 -- Bembridge, Isle of Wight. Schneider Trophy Race (a regular handicap race with a special trophy)

September 26-27 -- Alderney, Channell Islands.

~~~~~~~~~~

Nevada Film & Entertainment Daily Directory

~~~~~~~~~~

The Aviation & Maritime News Centerpiece
of ILIPS Group International

~~~~~

Aviation & Marine USA

Click Here For:

Aerospace Home Page

Maritime Home Page

www.aviationandmarineusa.com

~~~~~

Motorsports

Air Racing

The World's Fastest Motorsport

Centennial 1909 ~ 2009

Motorsports ~ Air Racing ~ Racers Over Stead 2008

Mike Brown, in Unlimited Class Race 232, "September Fury," darts past Howard Pardue in Race 14, "Bearcat," during the Unlimited Gold Race on Sunday, September 14, 2008.

Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group International

Motorsports

Updated March 31, 2009

Moved to Law Pages

News Headlines

Directory

Updated March 31, 2009

Fishlake Valley Galleries

Dyer, Nevada

Under Construction (Again...)

I Shall Pass This Way But Once...

A Collection of Short Stories, Articles, Manuscripts, Poetry, Screenplays, Lists, Song Parodies and Photography, along with other Literary Potpourri...

...All From a Guy with WaaaayyyToo Much Time on his Hands!

by Mark S. "Bear" Daniels

Precious Metal at Sunset

Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group International

2008

2007

All Encompassing Directory to Materials in the Water Works Case Scandal, and more!

Supporting Documents, References and other Writings Related to the Water Works Case Scandal...

The Full EIS Report from July, 2004, Detailing the Construction of the Power Line that Shall Kill The "Reno Air Races," and you have Mike Houghton of RARA, Wayne Sagar of AAFO.Com and Krys Bart/Dean Schulz of the AAWC to Thank for That!

How Mike Houghton Cheating on his Wife Results in Banishment of a Journalist from the RARA Hangar. Who Knew the Moron had a Wife!!?? Couldn't Tell It By His Behavior in Public at the Hilton Pylon Bar...

One of the Few Men in Air Racing and America not Owned and Operated by Mob Boss "Mickey Da Rat!" The Trials, Tribulations and Continuing Triumphs of Investigative Journalism...

Updated 6/15/2008

"Bad Boyz! Bad Boyz! Whatcha Gonna Do? Whatcha Gonna Do When They Come For YOU!"

The Latest Deformation of the Rules Including Our Comments Inbetween as to Why Such Rules Render the "National Championship 'Invitational, Entertainment Only' Air Races" a Thoroughly DEAD Event...

The "Full Skitty" on Houghton, "Cheeky Boy Birch" Entriken and the IF1 Board's Decision to Oust Sherwood Without Regard to a Membership Vote or for that matter, What's Right...

The FARs Violated by the Leadership of IF1. Sherwood Objects and They Oust Him for Houghton...

Communications between Sherwood and RARA Louse Larry Spitale

The Midget Mob Boss of Reno-Stead Gets Put in his Place

Parody, Humor, Satire, Editorial & Critique, of misconduct by Mike Houghton (RARA), Birch Entriken (IF1) and Wayne Sagar (AAFHOLE.Crapola), in regards to the inability of all three to tell the Truth.

Part I of the Exchanges Between Wayne Sagar, of AAFHOLE.Crapola and M.A. Edwards (Deceased), a Plaintiff in the Water Works Case Scandal...

Some Exchanges Between Wayne Sagar at AAFHOLE.Crapola and the Editor of SSNS, Mark S. "Bear" Daniels...some language not for children's eyes!

Remember, Parents ~ the internet is not your babysitter!

Plaintiffs Banned from AAFO.Com ~ Sagar Can't Handle the Truth!

How the Reno Air Races cheated the real winner of the 2002 Sunday Silver Race event.

Houghton's power play fails when he's caught with his pants down...I guess in more ways than one! Lying and cheating will do that to you! <g>

Scans of the actual documents from the False Arrest of SSNS Editor Mark S. "Bear" Daniels in Reno, Nevada, by Houghton and the Mob...

Despite the denials of Houghton and Sagar, the Lies were unravelling and the Future of the Racecourse was already determined: Closure. We've delayed their ability to shut down and build their Concrete Fraud, however the only thing standing between a wanton facility and a Community Event are now the Federal Complaint Procedures and the Courts...

Brett, like John P. Sande III, refuses to respond to amicable inquiries...therefore, the gloves come off!

"The Middle Finger," As Given In Writing...Defiance of another Conflict of Interest brought to you by the Shysters of Jones Vargas!

A Civil Rights Violation and False Misrepresentation (Grounds for Disbarment) brought to you by a Shysterette of Jones Vargas!

Even MORE Civil Rights Violations and False Misrepresentations (Grounds for Disbarment) brought to you by the Shysters and Shysterettes of Jones Vargas! So much for Free Speech, the Right of the People to Assemble Peaceably and Freedom of the Press...

Editorial Posted Prior to the Invitationals of 2004, where I was eventually Falsely arrested and Maliciously prosecuted that September. A Subtle Discussion for the Benefit and/or Detriment of Lying Schemers Like Mike Houghton and Wayne Sagar...

And this is just one opinion...we'll be bringing forward many more!

Editorial and Story presented prior to the very "Limited" Inspection of AAWC Public Record...

Document Restored, Page Links Fixed, Archived August 28, 2007.

Mike Houghton in a "Forever Plaid" shirt with conical bra and headset, The Dancing Thugs of RARAdales, the Psyche of Feces and the Masterstroke of Wit that brought down the House at the National Championship "Invitational, Entertainment" Air Races Awards Banquet on September 13, 2003...

~~~~~~~~~~

Leon J. Dowty, E.A.

Enrolled Agent

~~~~~~~~~~

319 E. Liberty, Reno, NV 89501

(775) 323-2228

FAX (775) 323-4601

~~~~~~~~~~

When you need help with matters of the I.R.S,
we're here for you!

Houghton Tries Murder 1

ILIPS Group International

U.S. Headquarters

E-Mail:

Mark S. "Bear" Daniels

Publisher & Editor

publisher@ilips.net

~~~~~~~~~~

"If you're a hit man, I'm the one you are looking for..." <g>

~ Ed.

~~~~~~~~~~

Publisher ~ ILIPS Group International

Editor ~ Silver State News Service

~~~~~~~~~~

Photo by Po He See Wa He Doe (11/2008)

2009 Internal Links

State News Services

Aloha State News Service / Centennial State News Service / Copper State News Service / Enchantment State News Service / Golden State News Service / Lone Star State News Service / Silver State News Service / Smoky Mountain State News Service / Topaz State News Service / Will Rogers State News Service

Transportation

AirlinersAirlinersAirliners.Net / Avia Mag / Aviation and Marine USA.Com / Aviation and Marine USA.Net / Bearplanes A 2 Z / Cody Bear's Train Page / Contrails International / Images of Light Online

Air Attack Firefighting

Tankertown

Air Show

Da Doo Rendezvous

Automotive

Vintage Autos USA.Com

Military

Aviation and Marine USA.Com / Aviation and Marine USA.Net / World Warbird Report

Tributes

American Panorama.Us / Anne Morrow Lindbergh / Da Bear Zone / Garofaloland.Net / The Great Janeane.Org / The Great Janeane.Net / The Great Janeane.Com / Waterworks Case Scandal

Politics, Law & Corruption

Pretext For Tyranny / The Extremist / The Water Works Case Scandal

Air Racing

Air Racing Safety.Com / Air Racing Safety.Net / The Home Pylon.Com / The Home Pylon.Net / The Pylon King / The Pylon Kings / www.valleyofspeed.net / www.valleyofspeed.org

Air Racing White Papers

Bomber Racing.Org / Bomber Racing.Com / Bomber Racing.Net / Sebring Air Races / Sebring Air Races / Sebring Air Races / The Home Pylon.Org / The New Reno Air Races.Biz / The New Reno Air Races.Us / The New Reno Air Races.Info International Air Racers Union.Org / International Air Racers Union.Com / International Air Racers Union.Net / Save the Air Races.Com / Save the Air Races.Net / Save the Air Races.Org Transcon Air Racing.Org / Transcon Air Racing.Net / Transcon Air Racing.Com

Motorsports

M.Daniels Motorsports (website coming soon...)

Publishing

M. Daniels Publishing (website coming soon...)

SSNS 2009 Masthead

Updated March 31, 2009

Member & Sponsor

Reporters Without Borders

Washoe County Commission.Info

Another Excellent Constitutional Law Reference and Information Site by...

Guy Felton, Public Watchdog, Nevada