The State Worker - Workers face big deficit of public support
From: www.sacbee.com
"State workers, you have a PR problem. For all the purple-shirted protests and speeches in the past week, the public isn't sympathetic. Some are downright hostile.
"
Unemployment claims rise to 455,000 in most recent week
From: www.usatoday.com
"WASHINGTON - The number of people signing up for jobless benefits has climbed to its highest point in more than six years as companies cut back, adjusting to the faltering economy."
Demographic landscape shifts across United States
From: www.usatoday.com
"White populations have declined in more than half of the USA's counties since 2000, helping fuel a rise in the number of communities where minorities are now the majority, an analysis of 2007 Census estimates released today shows. "
W.Va. using eBay to sell surplus state property
From: www.wvgazette.com
"One of the newest yellow-star sellers on Internet auction site eBay has a familiar handle: wvsurplusproperty."
Too few low-income college students?
From: www.csmonitor.com
"AMHERST, Mass. - The road to a college education in America is paved with good grades and hard work. But it also takes money and knowing how to navigate a complex admissions route - two factors that have contributed to poor students' underrepresentation on many campuses. "
Oklahoma City NBA team to open at home against Bucks
From: newsok.com
"Oklahoma City will open the 2008-09 NBA season at home against the Milwaukee Bucks on Oct. 29, the league announced Wednesday."
Utilities in need of workers
From: www.dispatch.com
"In an economic climate marked by cutbacks, layoffs and outsourcing, Columbia Gas of Ohio is doing something many central Ohio business would find unthinkable."
Money keeps flowing to affirmative action battle
From: www.journalstar.com
""
N.C. tourism revenue up 7.4% in '06-07
From: www2.journalnow.com
"Tourism spending in North Carolina increased 7.4 percent to $17.1 billion last year, according to newly released statistics."
State Fair adapting to impact of higher energy costs
From: www.theindependent.com
"Since 2004, attendance at the Nebraska State Fair has been on the increase."
Governor says flood recovery top priority
From: www.radioiowa.com
"Iowa Governor Chet Culver says more FEMA trailers are on the way to the state to help disaster victims. Culver says FEMA has committed to at least 15 mobile homes per day for an indefinite period of time, "So just in the last few days we've made real progress in terms of daily delivery and placement of families across the state.""
House speaker's golf tournament concerns some
From: www.chron.com
"Since 2003, House Speaker Tom Craddick, by lending his name to an annual golf tournament, has helped the Caring for Children Foundation of Texas raise thousands of dollars to vaccinate uninsured youngsters against childhood diseases."
Casino and health-care bills set for November ballot
From: www.columbiatribune.com
"Missouri voters in November will decide whether to repeal the state limit on gambling losses and increase taxes on casinos and whether to allow home health-care workers to unionize."
Zoo faces $8M shortage
From: www.detnews.com
"ROYAL OAK, Mich. -- Despite the resounding victory at the polls Tuesday for a tri-county tax to fund the Detroit Zoo, the zoo isn't completely in the clear yet."
Baldacci weighs special session to heating aid
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"Gov. John Baldacci is considering whether to call the Legislature into special session to add state funds to a federal program that provides heating oil assistance for low-income Maine households, a spokesman said Wednesday."
Hearing on controversial Pontiac prison closure could be rescheduled
From: ads.qctimes.com
"A hearing set for Tuesday on the merits of a plan to close Pontiac Correctional Center and open a prison in Thomson could be rescheduled."
Homeless numbers in region on the rise
From: www.theday.com
"The number of families living in shelters in New London County increased 17 percent from last year, figures from a homeless census show."
Desalination plant plans OK'd
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"CARLSBAD, Calif. - A private company's proposal to build the nation's largest drinking water desalination plant at Agua Hedionda Lagoon in Carlsbad cleared its final hurdles yesterday before the California Coastal Commission. "
Economy top issue for Iowa swing voters
From: www.qctimes.com
"Iowa swing voters rank economic issues at the top of their concerns going into the 2008 presidential election and stress bipartisanship as a solution to the country's fiscal problems, according to a recent survey sponsored by the AARP."
House, Senate still far apart on rebate
From: www.adn.com
"The House of Representatives late Wednesday passed a major energy bill with a $1,200 "resource rebate" for Alaskans, setting up what could be a tense, billion-dollar showdown with the Senate today -- the final day of the special session."
Reward program counters lucrative animal fighting
From: www.montgomeryadvertiser.com
"There are those in the state who make money by arranging animal fights. Now, the state wants others to make money on the people who arrange them."
Riley suggests taxpayers, sewer debt holders share pain
From: www.al.com
"Gov. Bob Riley said Wednesday he thinks Jefferson County's sewer debt problem could be solved if county commissioners drafted a plan that made taxpayers and holders of the county's sewer system bonds share the pain."
Gasoline prices could fall to $3, expert says
From: www.montgomeryadvertiser.com
"Bet you never thought you'd see $3 per gallon gasoline again. But now that pump prices have fallen for 20 straight days, it could happen in Alabama by Labor Day, experts say."
Arizona county has highest percentage of residents 65 or older in U.S.
From: www.azcentral.com
"La Paz County has it all, or so its official Web site boasts."
Panel will probe handling of gay- marriage debate
From: www.azstarnet.com
"A Senate panel voted Tuesday to hear from Sen. Jack Harper, R-Surprise, and the senator who filed an ethics complaint against him, but not anyone else for now - if ever."
Support builds for sweeping growth bill
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"Builders and environmentalists, often adversaries, are aligning behind sweeping legislation that could fundamentally change how California grows and where."
Governor won't sign bills until he gets budget
From: www.sfgate.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his latest attempt to pressure lawmakers into breaking the state's budget impasse, on Wednesday said he will not sign any bills until the Legislature agrees on a budget, which is more than a month overdue.
"
3 Southern California hospitals accused of fraud
From: www.latimes.com
"On a Sunday afternoon two years ago, five homeless people being dropped off on Los Angeles' skid row by an ambulance caught the attention of police officers. "
Schwarzenegger refusing to sign bills
From: www.latimes.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Wednesday that he would not sign any bills lawmakers send him until they pass a budget and would veto measures already on his desk before they can become law."
Gov. threatens to veto every bill sent to him until lawmakers pass budget
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger today threatened to veto any bill the Legislature sends him until it passes a budget. "This is the worst budget system in the United States," he said. "
Foes back anti-sprawl measure
From: www.sacbee.com
"An unlikely coalition of environmentalists, builders and local governments announced agreement Wednesday on landmark legislation that would pull state transportation money from projects that contribute to sprawl."
Money for health clinic loans grows as California budget impasse continues
From: www.sacbee.com
"More money is pouring into a special fund to provide low-interest loans to allow community health clinics to stay open while California tries to pass a budget.
"
California forestry officials reject rules to protect salmon
From: www.sacbee.com
"California forestry officials Wednesday rejected an emergency petition to protect coho salmon in coastal streams, even though federal fisheries regulators said it would help the imperiled fish."
State workers union sues over Schwarzenegger's job cuts
From: www.sacbee.com
"The largest state employees union filed a lawsuit Wednesday in Sacramento Superior Court alleging that the state mishandled its termination of some temporary and part-time employees last week, potentially costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
"
Capitol elevator operators floored by layoff order
From: www.sacbee.com
"The Capitol elevator operators, a beloved and longtime fixture of the state's legislative hub, were among those who went down with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's layoffs last week."
Schwarzenegger - No more bills until the budget is done
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said Wednesday he will refuse to sign any bills that reach his desk until the Legislature sends him a budget agreement."
2008 seen as peak for Colorado foreclosures
From: www.rockymountainnews.com
"Experts are cautiously optimistic that the foreclosure crisis in Colorado may hit its apex this year."
Selling change in the wind
From: www.denverpost.com
"LAMAR, Colo. - T. Boone Pickens swooped into Colorado for the second time in the past month Wednesday, drumming up support for his plan to cut the country's foreign-oil dependency. A standing-room crowd of about 375 at the Elks Lodge warmly welcomed the 80-year-old Texas oil-and-gas tycoon, applauding his entrance before an official introduction."
Connecticut joins other states in suing Countrywide
From: www.nytimes.com
"The Countrywide Financial Corporation was sued by Connecticut, which accused the company of steering customers into mortgages they could not afford, and charging excessive legal fees to borrowers in default."
Study - Homeless numbers rise in state
From: www.zwire.com
"The number of homeless families in Connecticut jumped 13 percent from last year, and the number of homeless individuals identified by volunteers on a single night rose 5 percent, according to a state-funded Point-In-Time Count of homeless people."
Hispanic population in 2 Connecticut counties nears milestone
From: www.courant.com
"Hispanics are on pace to outnumber black people in Hartford and New Haven counties for the first time in history, according to new population data from the U.S. Census Bureau."
Lawmakers look to expand Lake Compounce water park
From: www.courant.com
"BRISTOL, Conn. - With visions of landing a $20 million private investment, legislators from Bristol and Southington are waging a drive to line up $3.3 million in state aid to help Lake Compounce expand its water park."
Report - Homelessness increasing in Connecticut
From: www.courant.com
"The high cost of housing and rent increases contributed to close to a 21 percent rise in the number of families seeking refuge in homeless shelters in the state during the last year, according to a report issued Wednesday."
Film industry training program is reel life
From: www.courant.com
"Angeline Fazzina left the University of Hartford in May with a degree in cinema and film studies, but she had no job lined up and little direction."
New post at DNREC raises questions
From: www.delawareonline.com
"Late last year, an organizational shake-up abruptly created a new chief of planning job among the top leadership posts at the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, just as Delaware's economy was losing steam."
Markell unveils plan for more skilled workers
From: www.delawareonline.com
"Gubernatorial hopeful Jack Markell unveiled a plan for job growth-through-training Wednesday while touring a slew of small businesses in Delaware."
Land-use vote deserves ballot spot, group says
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - The statewide battle royal over whether the November ballot should include an amendment requiring a citizen vote on changes to community land-use plans landed in the lap of a federal judge Wednesday.
"
BOG to consider asking Legislature for $65 million
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"The Florida Board of Governors is meeting today in Jacksonville, where members will consider asking the Legislature for $65 million to help stop the brain drain from university faculty and staff in the next fiscal year. If approved, the extra funds would mean a 4 percent pay raise for faculty and staff."
Officials - Florida more prepared for disasters than ever before
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Florida is more ready for a hurricane and other disasters than ever before, Gov. Charlie Crist and top emergency-management officers said Wednesday. "
AG sues Quincy ad company
From: tallahassee.com
"Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum filed a lawsuit Wednesday against a Quincy-based Internet advertising company, accusing the owners of operating a huge pyramid scheme and seeking civil damages for the victims.
"
Utility costs hit universities hard
From: tallahassee.com
"Florida's public universities have another financial hurdle to scale in these days of state budget cuts - skyrocketing utility costs."
Universities want reserve dollars for pay problem
From: tallahassee.com
"In the past two weeks, both the pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and the president of Florida's flagship school have made a special request to the governor: Release reserve dollars to keep public universities from losing more momentum."
Florida pouring $50M into solar energy research at state universities
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers has only about one-fifth the enrollment of the University of Central Florida or the University of Florida. But the 10,000-student school's mission to advance environmental studies helped it win $8.5 million in seed money from the state to install a 16-acre "farm" of solar panels that could eventually supply nearly 20 percent of its electricity.
"
Brakes put on Obama gas station ads
From: www.miamiherald.com
"A Barack Obama ad ready to air at Florida gas stations that have pumps topped with TV screens was nixed at the last minute because the advertising company's chief said it reflected poorly on the oil industry, according to the presidential candidate's campaign.
"
Broward population falls as whites leave
From: www.miamiherald.com
"New Census figures show Broward's population is shrinking because some white non-Hispanics are leaving."
Crist disavows letters opposing tax swap
From: www.tampabay.com
"Gov. Charlie Crist said his aide got it wrong six months ago when he wrote constituents to say the governor would oppose any plans to swap property tax cuts for other tax increases. "
Democrats question whether Crist friend used 'straw donors'
From: www.tampabay.com
"WASHINGTON - Democrats pounced on reports Wednesday that a major fundraiser for Florida Gov. Charlie Crist and Republican presidential candidate John McCain had tapped suspiciously apolitical Californians of modest means for thousands of dollars in campaign contributions over the past two years."
In China, Perdue looks to deepen global ties
From: www.ajc.com
"JINAN, China - The world may be focused on the Beijing Olympics, but Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue spent Thursday talking about trade, healthcare and sustainable development in this eastern Chinese city."
Isle schools tighten travel purse strings
From: starbulletin.com
"Hawaii public school principals who have broad flexibility to spend funds are now being required to seek approval from Superintendent Pat Hamamoto for out-of-state trips because of the state's weakening economy."
Iowa Ear -- House leaders duke it out
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"House Minority Leader Christopher Rants and House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy engaged in a war of words."
Insurance companies will be able to give freebies at the fair
From: www.radioiowa.com
"Insurance companies and agents will be allowed to give away free gifts at the Iowa State Fair, which begins it's 11 day run in Des Moines tomorrow. The Iowa Insurance Division had ruled in late June to ban insurers from giving away "goods and services of any value.""
Astronaut Whitson gives talks with hopes of inspiring others
From: www.radioiowa.com
"Each Iowa homecoming gets a little more surreal for Iowa-born astronaut Peggy Whitson. "
Some leaders worry over flood funding
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"COLUMBUS JUNCTION, Iowa -- Some southeastern Iowa leaders are worried that hurricane season damage could jeopardize federal allocations for Midwest flood recovery."
Agriprocessors reacts to child labor allegations
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"An embattled kosher meatpacking company accused of violating Iowa's child labor laws said on Wednesday that the government's allegations made public this week were "inflammatory" and denied knowingly hiring any minors."
Lawmaker urges funds for relief, not an edifice
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Instead of constructing a new state office building in Des Moines, the state should redirect that money to helping Iowans most affected by natural disasters, a state lawmaker said Wednesday."
Iowa governor invites Pelosi to tour flood damage
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Iowa Gov. Chet Culver has invited U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to tour flood damage in the state. The invitation comes after Congress delayed action on a federal flood relief package and left for its August recess."
Gov. Culver tours Muscatine Industrial Technology Center, touts benefits of preparing today's workforce for tomorrow's challenges
From: www.muscatinejournal.com
"Gov. Chet Culver visited Muscatine Community College Tuesday and left with high praises for the college's three-year-old Muscatine Industrial Technology Center. "
Iowa State Fair opens; traffic jams follow
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Carol Jepson was walking down a sidewalk on Grand Avenue in the dark at 4:40 a.m. this morning, wearing a Renaissance dress and a crown of golden forks on her head."
Iowa seeing greater ethnic diversity throughout state
From: www.qctimes.com
"The growth in the number of Hispanics living in Iowa has been evident for years, but new government estimates say that since 2000 there's also been sharp growth in the number of areas where Hispanics have expanded their footprint."
Union calls closing of Pontiac prison 'irresponsible'
From: www.pantagraph.com
""Irresponsible," "half-baked" and "misleading" were just some of the words a prison workers' union has used to describe plans to close Pontiac Correctional Center."
Blagojevich starts bill rewrite campaign with Jefferson's measure
From: www.rrstar.com
"Gov. Rod Blagojevich today vetoed one of Rep. Chuck Jefferson's bills and recast it to advance his health-care agenda."
Veto power starts battle
From: www.dailyherald.com
"In a move that jeopardizes a tamer health insurance expansion plan, Gov. Rod Blagojevich launched a fresh assault on House Democrats by rewriting a measure to force insurance companies to cover dependents well into their 20s."
Constitutional officers considering layoffs, furloughs
From: www.sj-r.com
"Two Illinois constitutional officers are considering dire options to deal with deep budget cuts, with one bracing workers for the possibility of taking several unpaid days off to reduce the need for layoffs."
Union -- State has poor reasons for closing Pontiac
From: www.sj-r.com
"The largest state-employee union is attacking the Blagojevich administration's plan to close the prison at Pontiac."
Panel not buying IDOT move to Harrisburg
From: www.sj-r.com
"Gov. Rod Blagojevich's latest call for special sessions is good news for Springfield and bad news for Pontiac."
Governor lobs criticism at Daley and Madigan
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Gov. Rod Blagojevich lashed out at two of his fellow Democrats on Wednesday, accusing House Speaker Michael Madigan of blocking his progressive social agenda for the state and contending that Mayor Richard Daley is complicit by failing to intervene."
Hearing on Pontiac prison delayed
From:
"PONTIAC, Ill. - A public hearing on the proposed closure of the state prison in Pontiac has been delayed. "
Meeks' fury over schools ignited in past
From: blogs.chicagotribune.com
"To better understand the determined fury of State Sen. James Meeks-his fiery rhetoric on education funding and proposals to spark city-suburban confrontations-we must look back to spring 2006, when Meeks himself got a schooling he can't forget."
Obama shares his message of change with Hoosiers
From: www.indystar.com
"ELKHART, Ind. -- Sen. Barack Obama came to this economically distressed city Wednesday to lay out his plan for a future where oil doesn't come from the Middle East and cars use far less gas."
40 percent of Ind. mortgage brokers lose licenses
From: hosted.ap.org
"Nearly 40 percent of Indiana's mortgage brokerages lost their licenses Wednesday because they haven't complied with a new law aimed at raising the standards of the industry in a state with one of the nation's highest foreclosure rates."
IU survey -- State's seniors need more help
From: www.fortwayne.com
"While 97 percent of northeast Indiana residents age 60 and older living in their own homes say they want to remain where they are, more than a third say they are not confident they can."
State fair celebrates Indiana's trees
From: www.southbendtribune.com
"This year's Indiana State Fair includes a toast to the state's billion-dollar hardwood tree industry with displays ranging from hand-hewn wooden coffins to a replica of one of Indiana's most famous covered bridges."
Indiana strips licenses of rogue mortgage brokers
From: www.nwi.com
"| Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita has revoked the licenses of 361 mortgage brokers who failed to comply with new consumer protection safeguards."
Patrick moves forward with plan to use civilian flaggers
From: www.boston.com
"Governor Deval Patrick says he is forging ahead with plans to chip away at one of the most closely defended police perks in Massachusetts: paid details at roadside construction sites."
Dental benefits widen, waiting lines grow
From: www.boston.com
"Two years into the state's bold healthcare experiment, its early success in expanding dental coverage may be threatened by a shortage of dentists willing to treat newly insured patients."
A late try to salvage student loans
From: www.boston.com
"Governor Deval Patrick has asked the state pension fund to invest $50 million and will ask Harvard University and other local colleges to invest millions more to provide student loans to thousands of families struggling to pay college tuition bills that are due in the coming weeks."
Contract approved for BWI shuttle
From: www.washingtontimes.com
"Despite objections from the NAACP and members of the Legislative Black Caucus, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved a $44.8 million contract for an airport shuttle service with a company that has drawn complaints for falling short of past minority participation goals. "
O'Malley vows to expand state's use of ethanol
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"The state government is going to increase the amount of ethanol used in its fleet of vehicles by placing four new fuel pumps throughout Maryland."
Energy task force seeks public comment
From: bangornews.com
"State officials are asking for public comment on a recent report that explores the possibility of more Maine homes and businesses converting to wood heat to help solve the current energy crisis."
PUC eyes aid to low-income ratepayers
From: bangornews.com
"The Public Utilities Commission has started proceedings to determine whether to increase the aid going to low-income Mainers under the Low Income Assistance Program to help them pay their electric bills. "
Granholm signs item to encourage Hemlock's growth
From: www.freep.com
"Governor Jennifer Granholm has signed legislation aimed at encouraging a high-tech firm near Saginaw to continue expanding in Michigan."
Park association joins effort to expand bottle bill
From: www.freep.com
"The Michigan Recreation and Park Association has added its muscle to the effort to extend Michigan's 1976 bottle deposit law to cover non-carbonated drink bottles. Dennis Schornack, executive director of the association, said it would help cut down on litter on roadsides and in parks, saving the parks money"
Survey -- Reform state now
From: www.detnews.com
"Dismayed with the state's economy and political leadership, Michigan voters are ready for drastic reforms -- including keeping nonviolent offenders out of prison -- to get the state back on track, according to a new survey released today."
Deal-makers worked fast to bring Priceline to Wyoming
From: blog.mlive.com
"Booking online travel giant "Priceline.com Inc. to come to Wyoming wasn't exactly a point-and-click affair."
Priceline.com plans call center in Michigan
From: www.freep.com
"Online travel company Priceline.com Inc. plans to establish a new call center in southwestern Michigan."
Workers disciplined for peek at Granholm medical file
From: www.freep.com
"Employees of Sparrow Hospital were fired or disciplined in July after it was discovered they attempted to access computerized medical information about Gov. Jennifer Granholm when she was admitted there for abdominal surgery April 29, the Free Press has learned."
Food vs. fuel splits farmers
From: www.duluthnewstribune.com
"REDWOOD FALLS, Minn. - Emotions are rising nationally as leaders debate the question about whether biofuels such as ethanol are driving up food and other prices."
Whites find way back to city
From: www.stltoday.com
"White flight in St. Louis may be over."
Entergy proposes rate relief
From: www.clarionledger.com
"Entergy Mississippi customers soon should pay less for electricity, which went up about 28 percent last month."
AG settles lawsuit against insurer
From: www.clarionledger.com
"Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said Wednesday his office has settled its dispute with State Farm Insurance Cos. over how the insurer handled Hurricane Katrina damage claims in Mississippi."
Justice Dept. signs off on state's ambitious ethics-reform law
From: www.clarionledger.com
"The U.S. Department of Justice has given its OK for Mississippi to put into action the state's most sweeping government ethics and transparency reform in decades."
Ambience different at fair without the racing
From: www.helenair.com
"Call it the changed and changing faces of Montana horse racing. There was Gov. Brian Schweitzer, in front of full grandstands at Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls in late July, receiving an award by the state Board of Horse Racing for his efforts to save the sport."
Comment sought on new truck dump
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Bighorn Limestone Co. has applied to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality for a minor revision to its permit to include additional acreage for a new truck dump, rail loadout and haul road near the existing rail loadout area."
Projects to 'constrain' N.D. oil until 2010
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"Pipeline and refinery construction projects will constrain North Dakota oil exports in coming months, the state's chief oil and gas regulator told lawmakers Wednesday."
N.D. farm land value sets another record
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"The average value of farm real estate in North Dakota has set a record for the fourth straight year, driven primarily by high commodity prices that have fueled a demand for land."
Questions remain about State Fair move to G.I.
From: www.theindependent.com
"As Hall County residents flock to the Hall County Fair this week, the finishing touches are being put together for the 139th year of the Nebraska State Fair, which will run from Aug. 22 through Sept. 1 in Lincoln."
Census data shows Hispanic population changes
From: www.journalstar.com
"Puerto Rican and former New Yorker Jose Roman doesn't claim to know much about cows and corn, but he does know that agriculturally oriented York County holds potential as a place for Hispanics to call home."
Freeing up student loans in NH
From: www.unionleader.com
"MANCHESTER, N.H. -- State regulatory action against UBS Financial Services over auction rate securities may be imminent, the New Hampshire Union Leader has learned."
State is required to have 'model eviction' forms posted online
From: www.nashuatelegraph.com
"Although attorneys Fred Mayer and Christine Wellington often find themselves on opposite sides of the law in landlord-tenant disputes, one thing both agreed was helpful to landlords is the model eviction notice forms the state is required to make available on its judicial Web site."
State agency working to shore up student loans
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"Turmoil in the financial markets has driven many lenders out of the student loan market, leaving students struggling to pay their fall tuition. That's a problem that New Hampshire officials are working on."
Case could cut down town laws on trees
From: www.nj.com
"Tree-protection laws in New Jersey are in danger of getting clear-cut based on an Ocean County case that has found its way to the state Supreme Court."
Special session: Governor narrows focus to children
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"Gov. Bill Richardson's administration has scaled back its proposals to insure the 400,000 New Mexicans who lack health care coverage. "
Doctor's J-1 actions go under microscope
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"A state advisory committee today will examine the practices of a politically connected Las Vegas doctor who has been accused of exploiting foreign physicians - and now wants to hire another one."
Booze bosses bless Cipriani
From: www.nypost.com
"Bellini lovers, rejoice. Cipriani's is still in business. The State Liquor Authority yesterday voted to accept a record-setting $500,000 tax-evasion penalty instead of revoking booze licenses at the Italian eating empire's nine restaurants and catering halls.
"
`Pat' on the back - Record approval
From: www.nypost.com
"Gov. Paterson's warnings of an impending fiscal crisis are going over well with New York voters as a new statewide poll yesterday showed his approval rating leaping to a record 64 percent."
UB imposes hiring freeze in response to state fiscal crisis
From: www.buffalonews.com
"Worried University at Buffalo officials have put in place an immediate hiring freeze and moratorium on large purchases as an initial response to Gov. David A. Paterson's order that state agencies trim 7 percent of their current year's spending plans.
"
Poll finds voters agree with Paterson on state budget crisis
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"Gov. David Paterson got his highest marks as governor in a new Quinnipiac Poll today after he appealed to the state last week to deal with the state's looming budget crisis.
"
Last-minute deal saves Buffalo schools reconstruction project
From: www.buffalonews.com
"A last-minute compromise enabled Gov. David A. Paterson to sign legislation Wednesday permitting a new, $300 million school construction program in Buffalo that had been jeopardized by the state's worsening fiscal problems.
"
Senate GOP to approve school pension cap
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"Senate Republicans will pass legislation Friday that would cap school districts' costs for teachers' pensions as part of a sweeping mandate-relief package, aides said Tuesday."
Film contest highlights why people love New York state
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"One film shows a bare-chested man with a green apple, proclaiming about New York: "You taught me how to live again, to love again." The film is among 15 finalists in New York's first I Love New York Film Competition that kicked off last spring.
"
Paterson signs 35 pieces of legislation into laws
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"Tired of being inundated with unsolicited faxes that offer low-cost health insurance and discount trips to Mexico? A new state law that takes effect Oct. 4 will require companies that send the ads to provide a no-cost way for people to request that the transmission stop."
Many undocumented immigrants leaving Long Island
From: www.newsday.com
"While lawmakers debate measures to reduce the number of undocumented immigrants, something unexpected is happening: Some immigrants are leaving, not because of legislation, but because of the economy.
"
Union - Probe of workers political
From: timesunion.com
"COLONIE, N.Y. -- The union defending two supervisors facing discipline for a public works project that state auditors found benefited a private club contends the men are political scapegoats."
Paterson gets lift in wake of speech
From: timesunion.com
"A newly released Quinnipiac University poll conducted in the days following Gov. David Paterson's statewide address about the state's finances suggests that, in the words of Polling Institute Director Maurice Carroll, "tough talk pays off politically.""
Aid loss hurts Albany
From: timesunion.com
"City officials must scramble for additional ways to eliminate a looming budget deficit after Gov. David Paterson rejected their plea for a long-term boost in state aid."
State board lets Ciprianis keep their liquor licenses
From: www.nytimes.com
"The verdict is in: Patrons of the Cipriani family's empire of opulent restaurants and catering halls across Manhattan will not have do without their favorite cocktail when they order the calamari risotto or Venetian calf's liver."
Health aides seek help from state over raises
From: www.nytimes.com
"In many contract disputes, 1199 S.E.I.U., the giant health care union, has looked to its powerful friends in New York State government to give tens of millions of dollars to hospitals and nursing homes to help pay for raises. "
Deal keeps Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field until at least 2023
From: blog.cleveland.com
"The Cleveland Indians and the nonprofit organization that owns Progressive Field have reached a deal that will keep the baseball team here until at least 2023."
High court to hear appeal of city's law on residency
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Toledo's challenge to a 2006 state law prohibiting cities from imposing residency requirements on most of their employees is heading for the Ohio Supreme Court."
Ford to pay $1.4M pollution fine in Ohio
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Ford Motor Co. has agreed to pay a $1.4 million fine to settle an air-pollution complaint at its Cleveland Casting Plant."
Strickland says he'll keep trying for sick-days deal
From: www.dispatchpolitics.com
"Gov. Ted Strickland said yesterday that he hasn't given up trying to broker a compromise to keep a controversial sick-days issue off the Nov. 4 ballot, despite comments by opponents that any such deal is impossible. "
Cardinal Health tops $91 billion in '08 revenue
From: www.dispatch.com
"Cardinal Health posted higher operational profits but lower overall earnings for its fiscal fourth quarter today and said it plans to set aside $23.5 million related to a federal investigation of its drug distribution practices."
Oklahoma City Thunder clues hidden in NBA schedule?
From: newsok.com
"The NBA's Web site all but confirmed Thunder would be the nickname of Oklahoma City's NBA team on Wednesday morning - by Wednesday afternoon, the evidence was gone."
Rising energy prices stoke natural gas proposals
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Rising energy prices are playing an increasingly significant role in the long-running debate over developing liquefied natural gas terminals in Oregon."
Understaffed Oregon is behind in green project approvals
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Requests for tax subsidies for solar and other clean energy projects are flooding into Oregon's certifying agency, clogging the system and frustrating businesses that have tight construction deadlines."
Oregon firefighting company known as a national leader in field
From: www.oregonlive.com
"The Oregon company that employed the eight firefighters presumed dead in a California helicopter crash is regarded as a national leader in the private fire-combat business."
Carcieri's plan for union health insurance now on hold
From: www.projo.com
"The governor's plan to impose higher health-insurance rates on thousands of unionized state employees who rejected a recent contract proposal is on hold until at least mid-month, while a Superior Court judge decides whether Carcieri's actions should be barred."
PSC rules utility has to wait to start work at reactor site
From: www.charleston.net
"South Carolina Electric & Gas will have to wait for permission to begin preparing a site where the utility wants to build two nuclear reactors, the state Public Service Commission decided Wednesday."
TVA energy curtailment affects Vanderbilt
From: www.tennessean.com
"Vanderbilt University and other big energy users are being forced to go green or pay up after TVA issued its second energy cutback demand of the summer late last month."
Board studies options for Tenn. fairgrounds
From: www.tennessean.com
"The Tennessee State Fairgrounds has plenty of space for an annual event and a small auto racing venue, but some developers see more inventive possibilities for the 117-acre site south of downtown."
Electric bills are going up
From: www.tennessean.com
"Nashvillians' monthly electricity bills could jump 10 percent to 20 percent to cover the rising costs of coal and other fuels used to generate electricity, the Tennessee Valley Authority has announced."
Governor's council urges Texas to stick with deregulated power market
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Texas' growing energy needs require new power plants of all types and continuation of a deregulated power market despite high electricity prices, according to recommendations Wednesday from the governor's competitiveness council. "
Texas must improve math, science education, task force says
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Texas schools must improve math and science education in all grades and improve low graduation rates if the state is to remain competitive in the global economy, a panel of business, education and government leaders said in a report Wednesday. "
Leaders urge better student development
From: www.chron.com
"Business and education leaders - spurred by concern that Texas students aren't ready for a global economy - made recommendations including more school accountability Wednesday to Gov. Rick Perry, who embraced the need to "develop the state's talent better.""
EPA denies governor's request to lower ethanol requirement
From: www.chron.com
"The Environmental Protection Agency today denied Texas Gov. Rick Perry's request to reduce federal ethanol requirements this year."
Minorities often a majority of the population under 20
From: www.nytimes.com
"Foreshadowing the nation's changing makeup, one in four American counties have passed or are approaching the tipping point where black, Hispanic and Asian children constitute a majority of the under-20 population, according to analyses of census figures released Thursday."
Ethanol producers await EPA ruling on mandate
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Ethanol producers in Iowa and elsewhere are awaiting a ruling at noon today, Iowa time, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on a request from Gov. Rick Perry of Texas to cut in half the current mandate requiring the blending of 9 billion gallons of ethanol with unleaded gasoline."
More money available for region's jobless
From: www.spokesmanreview.com
"Washington and Idaho have notified about 120,000 residents they might be eligible to collect unemployment checks as part of a federal extension for workers who lost their jobs and who exhausted their original insurance benefits."
Schools move to eject cars from campuses
From: www.usatoday.com
"High schools and colleges are steering students away from cars to save money on gas, save the environment and promote physical fitness. "
'Green' building codes sprout up across USA
From: www.usatoday.com
"As energy costs rise, more states and cities are adopting policies that encourage or require new construction to be energy-efficient. "
Unpaid bills are causing more utility shut-offs
From: www.latimes.com
"WASHINGTON -- Utility shut-offs for customers behind on their energy bills are increasing around the country, reaching 50% or more in some hard-hit areas, as the effects of rising prices and a sagging economy are beginning to drag down more vulnerable consumers."
One year later, relatives remember Crandall Canyon mine collapse
From: www.heraldextra.com
"Within seconds in the early hours of Aug. 6, 2007, a level section of Utah's Crandall Canyon mine as large as 63 football fields collapsed, bringing down hundreds of coal pillars and trapping six men nearly half a mile underground."
Latino surge -- Census a snapshot of Utah's future?
From: www.sltrib.com
"Latinos have led Utah's robust population growth since 2000, surging faster than other residents in 28 of 29 counties, according to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates."
A year after mine disaster, memorial to the lost dedicated
From: www.sltrib.com
"On Wednesday, the families of the victims of Utah's worst mine disaster in more than two decades gathered in a private service to dedicate the memorial and remember their loved ones."
DMV office moving
From: www.deseretnews.com
"The Utah Division of Motor Vehicles office at 10433 S. Redwood Road will close Aug. 14 and reopen Aug. 18 at 14555 S. Minuteman Drive in Draper."
Highland OKs 4-day week
From: www.deseretnews.com
"HIGHLAND, Utah -- The Highland City Council approved an eight-month trial of a four-day workweek for all city employees Tuesday, following Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s plan for state workers that began this week."
Crandall Canyon remembrance
From: www.deseretnews.com
"HUNTINGTON, Utah -- Steve Allred finally has a special place to go near the sealed Crandall Canyon Mine where his brother, Kerry Allred, was entombed in a collapse one year ago."
Gregoire calls criticism of gambling negotiations racist
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"Gov. Chris Gregoire is blistering critics of her tribal gambling negotiations, saying there's a current of racism in the lingering controversy over state gambling covenants and tribal campaign spending."
Economists say Washington paychecks grew in 2007
From: news.opb.org
"Washington state economists say paychecks grew at a faster rate than inflation in 2007."
Gregoire decries ad by foes as 'racist'
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Gov. Christine Gregoire is blistering critics of her tribal gambling negotiations, saying there's a current of racism in the lingering controversy over state gambling covenants and tribal campaign spending."
Doyle announces grazing, conservation grants
From: www.lacrossetribune.com
"COON VALLEY, Wis. - A $69,030 grant to the Coulee Graziers Network and a $2,500 grant to the Deer Run Farm organic beef farm near Coon Valley were among $983,000 in grants Gov. Jim Doyle announced Wednesday during a visit to the farm."
U.S. Census figures show state's Hispanic population rising
From: www.jsonline.com
"It might be a quick glimpse of a Spanish-language billboard hyping the Wisconsin State Fair. Or, it could be a stop inside a Milwaukee Public Schools classroom when bilingual education is in full swing."
State makes new bid for Rainbow Springs
From: www.jsonline.com
"The state is offering to buy the long-failed recreation resort Rainbow Springs for $10.8 million, making it potentially one of the state's most expensive conservation land purchases in southeastern Wisconsin, a state Department of Natural Resources official said Wednesday."
W.Va. makes it easier to acquire surplus property
From: www.dailymail.com
"West Virginia is making it easier for the public to acquire surplus office equipment, vehicles and other unused state property."
Allegheny Energy pledges cooperation on power line
From: www.dailymail.com
"Allegheny Energy's chief executive is pledging to support Governor Joe Manchin's proposal to tax a proposed $1.3 billion multistate power line that would cross West Virginia."
District 10 Dems state energy, smoking views
From: www.wyomingnews.com
"Two Democrat candidates vying for a seat in Wyoming House District 10 addressed renewable energy, a statewide smoking ban and charter schools Wednesday evening at a League of Women Voters forum."
Three states reconsider affirmative action
From: www.stateline.org
"In a year when voters could elect the country’s first African-American president, three states also will decide on a controversial ballot measure that would end the use of affirmative action in college admissions and government contracting."
WORTH NOTING: Michigan billed for woman's gas
From: www.stateline.org
"
A woman wants Michigan to pay for gas wasted in stalled traffic. A Nebraska judge considers whether the Almighty can be sued. And a Democrat-sponsored Web site claims Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons (R) is the worst of the worst. In case you missed those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in.
"
States adopt bold anti-poverty measures
From: www.stateline.org
"At least 15 states have declared war on poverty, launching broad, high-profile campaigns aimed at rooting out the causes of poverty and alleviating its effects on children."
2008 state-by-state summary
From: www.stateline.org
"
(Updated 11:15 a.m. EDT, Aug. 6, 2008)
Here’s
Stateline.org's state-by-state rundown of significant legislative action in 2008."
Anti-tax activists again watch Colorado
From: www.stateline.org
"
Colorado voters may get to decide this November whether to ditch for good their strictest-in-the-nation state spending cap that returned extra revenue to taxpayers, while voters in Massachusetts will consider killing the state income tax."
Watch your (official) language
From: www.stateline.org
"Missouri, a key presidential swing state and home to one of the most hotly contested gubernatorial races, will test what some see as voters’ attitudes toward immigrants with a ballot measure to make English the only language of state government."
WORTH NOTING: Doc's orders: No fist bumps for Easley
From: www.stateline.org
"North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley (D) is told to knock off his knuckle knocking with presidential candidates. A woman shells out $200,000 to run ads against her ex-husband, who’s running for Missouri attorney general. And Washington state Gov. Christine Gregoire (D) gets blocked from a capital city bar for not having identification. In case you missed those stories this week, Worth Noting fills you in."
Louisiana touts its offshore oil drilling
From: www.stateline.org
"
NEW ORLEANS — While states on the east and west coast debate whether to drill for offshore oil and natural gas, Louisiana and three other Gulf Coast states hold up their offshore drilling operations as proof that they can produce oil and gas without hurting the environment.
"
Great Lakes states protect their water
From: www.stateline.org
"Congress begins work Wednesday (July 30) on the Great Lakes Compact, an agreement among eight states designed to preserve their drinking water and promote shipping, electric power and tourism by restricting water diversion from the lakes."
WORTH NOTING: R.I. sweeps out cleaning staff
From: www.stateline.org
"The Rhode Island attorney general’s office is duped by a janitor. A South Carolina lawmaker gets defensive over an incriminating photo. And Ohio cracks down on very tiny, but unwanted overnight guests. In case you missed those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in."
Jobs are at risk if Congress doesn't fix the Highway Fund
From: www.stateline.org
"State budgets and nearly 400,000 jobs are at risk if Congress fails to replenish the Highway Trust Fund, John Horsley, executive director of the American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials, writes in a commentary for
Stateline.org."
The economic downturn: an opportunity for governors?
From: www.stateline.org
"Most governors recognize that they have the best political job in America. Most also would concede that the job is more satisfying when the economy is strong and revenues are growing than during an economic downturn, when cutting budgets becomes the major task. But even a recession can present opportunities for governors to make improvements that yield lasting benefits for their states."
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: www.stateline.org
"Most governors recognize that they have the best political job in America. Most also would concede that the job is more satisfying when the economy is strong and revenues are growing than during an economic downturn, when cutting budgets becomes the major task. But even a recession can present opportunities for governors to make improvements that yield lasting benefits for their states."
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