Gibson goes negative (Reno News & Review article)

Gibson says Titus misuses PAC funds (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Businesses don't give philosophical money. The money in politics is mostly about who is going to win."

Jeff Simpson explains why candidates such as Lorraine Hunt don't get casino money (Las Vegas Sun column)

"A liberal Democrat attacked the federal government and a conservative Republican defended it. That's why you'll find no predictions here. Forty years later, Nevada politics isn't much more comprehensible."

Gov. race promises to be knock-down, drag-out fight (Michael Green column, Las Vegas Business Press)

Better Late Than Never

Heller files financial report: Candidate has indirect link to movie industry (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

POLITICAL NOTEBOOK: Flier's funding fodder in race -- Businesswoman running for lieutenant governor targets candidate Krolicki (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Justice of the Peace Bennett-Haron wants 70 days to decide whether Frances Deane should face trial, based on sworn testimony from two separate local businessmen that they had $10,000 and $16,000 in cash delivered to this public official for access to public records in her care -- the latter sum hidden in stuffed animals!"

Case goes down the Bennett-Haron bypass: Handling of county recorder's case has been unusual (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

JANE ANN MORRISON: Justice of the peace's handling of Deane case makes special impression (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

"When asked why Deane was taking the cash, Gekko paraphrased Deane as saying, 'I'm not going to get re-elected, so it's time for me to get a piece like everyone else.'"

Businessmen say they paid recorder for data (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Hearing in Deane case concludes (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Proposed forfeiture too high, lawyer for former official says (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Here, under a law that took effect Oct. 1 but only now is attracting attention, if the state allows a polluter to ruin the landscape and soil the sky, you have no standing to "petition the government" to order the pollution to stop - unless you have a financial stake in doing so."

Ruling over mine exposes flaw in new law: Petitioners required to have standing in case (Las Vegas Sun article)

State officials start paying big judgment: Board of Examiners OKs payments (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Nevada panel OK's payments in construction contract dispute (Las Vegas Sun article)

"Last year the state Division of Internal Audits determined Parole and Probation officers hadn't adequately supervised potentially dangerous criminals. In a study of 61 cases, auditors found officers didn't perform required duties 70 percent of the time, most often by failing to check on high-risk offenders with enough regularity - if at all."

Underfunded, understaffed parole officers overwhelmed (Las Vegas Sun article)

Cab companies: DMV scam denied by official: Company representative says businesses use contractor to complete smog checks (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

DMV INVESTIGATION: Six taxicab firms cited -- Companies accused of faking smog checks on vehicles (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"A resident has filed a lawsuit against Carson City, alleging charges he was required to pay for obtaining records are excessive."

Man sues city over records fees dispute (Nevada Appeal* article)

"Las Vegas and Henderson have seen a steady and dramatic increase in arson cases in the past five years, and experts say that an increase in insurance fraud may be to blame."

Arson numbers going through roof: Las Vegas, Henderson report steady increases in number of fires, bucking national trend (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Law enforcement summit set (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The death of a proposal to impose height limitations on a small stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South is an important victory for those who want to see the burgeoning vertical development of downtown continue."

Sky is still the limit on Las Vegas Boulevard South (Las Vegas Sun article)

Sales tax hike causes deadlock (Pahrump Valley Times article)

Pahrump board wants sales tax put before voters (Pahrump Valley Times article)

Can tax hike be used for new ambulance purchases? (Pahrump Valley Times article)

"A General Improvement District set up to fund storm water and drainage problems in Pahrump would be set up to also fund water and sewer improvements, Nye County Commissioners decided Wednesday."

Commission broadens service district plan (Pahrump Valley Times article)

Toll road issue poses legal questions (Nevada Appeal* article)

All toll roads led to the Comstock - almost: The Six Mile Canyon route was a free road (Nevada Appeal* article)

"The problem is, there's no moving here and then closing the door behind you. Everyone has an equal right to move here and degrade the environment. Politicians who don't take contributions from developers lose elections (very similar to the power casino owners used to wield). People who saw the oncoming train and shouted loudest are still shouting as the train rolls by."

I'm with stupid (Reno News & Review editorial)

Law gets a failing grade: Nation's teachers say No Child Left Behind Act isn't working and needs reform (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

For our students' health: Nevada is recognized as a progressive state in creating healthier school environments (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"The Churchill County School District will test the substance from a second leaking light ballast through a Sparks laboratory after an earlier sample got lost en route to Virginia."

District plans second test for PCBs First sample lost (Lahontan Valley News* article)

"Churchill County School Board Trustee Mark Hyde said missing five of the last six school board meetings doesn't mean he is neglecting his job as an elected official."

Hyde cites 'family obligations' for absence at five of six meetings (Lahontan Valley News* article)

Carol Lark: Douglas position an educator's dream (Gardnerville Record-Courier* article)

State engineer to post all SNWA documents online (Ely Times article)

":Plans to pump millions of gallons of water to the Las Vegas area from rural Nevada will leave the land scarred, cut the wildlife population and drop the water table by more than 20 feet, an environmental organization claims."

Warnings made over rural water: Groups claim pumping for LV Valley will endanger wildlife, scar land (Las Vegas Sun article)

Warnings issued over rural Nevada water (Nevada AP article)

"Dozens of Nevada and Utah residents are challenging a state law that bars them from participating in hearings on the Southern Nevada Water Authority's plan to pump rural Nevada ground water to Las Vegas."

Newer residents protest water law: Dozens demand voice at hearing (Las Vegas Sun article)

State Engineer's Water Rights Database Webpage (State Engineer website)

Water Words Dictionary (State Engineer website)

"Opponents to Nevada Power Co.'s planned $3 billion coal-fired power plant at Ely are starting to emerge following a late Friday filing by Nevada Power Co. to seek approval of the project."

LS Power opposes second WP plant (Ely Times article)

Nevada Power files plan for Ely Energy Center with PUC (Ely Times article)

Garbage plan recycled: Pilot program again calls for once-a-week pickup with recycling on same day (Las Vegas Sun article)

Las Vegas area politicians wary of smell from recycling proposal (Nevada AP article)

25% hike for trash pickups on table (Elko Free Press article)

"A political demonstration in Reno was listed in a California Office of Homeland Security's daily briefing by mistake, a spokesman for the office said Friday."

__________

Nevada's Past

Bowers Mansion

Don't Care About History: Kiel Ranch

Kiel ranch, historic dump (George Knapp column, Las Vegas CityLife)

==========================================

July 11, 2006

[9:00 AM]

_____

Nevada Politics

2006 US Senate Race

2006 Congressional Races

Congressional District 3

Second Time Around: Progressive Anna Nevenic tries again to run on her terms (Las Vegas Weekly article)

2006 Governor's Race

State Sen. Titus And Mayor Gibson

State Sen. Beers

Melody DeMayo

Porn to Run: Melody Damayo stands up for strippers and students in her campaign for governor (Las Vegas Weekly article)

2006 State Treasurer's Race

2006 Ballot Initiatives And Petitions

Another deadline for Nevada initiatives (Nevada AP article)

Tax And Spending Control (TASC)

No Smoking Initiatives

Smoking conspiracy? Is the Surgeon General of the United States in league with Nevada's smoke-banners? (Las Vegas CityLife editorial)

2006 Legislative Races

The Candidate: Stan Vaughan is a model of the perennial political underdog (Las Vegas Weekly article)

__________

Nevada Government

State Government

State Health Care Plans

State Seizures Of Children From Parents

Nevada seizes children at twice the national average.

Inadequate State Regulation Of Mortgage Lenders

Nevada Highways

Galena Creek Bridge

Retro-Government Toll Road Proposal

Nevada's Burning Hills

Surrounded By Flames

Nevada Labor

Local Government

Churchill County

Clark County

Dream Of New Eldorado Dies A-Borning

__________

Nevada Education Matters

Public Schools

Churchill County School District

__________

Nevada Mining

Golden Future?

__________

Federal Nevada

Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Dump Project

National Budget

Ensign's "Railroad the Congress" Act of 2006 (Desert Beacon website)

Federal Lobby Reform

Lobbyists' money talks: Spending by lobbyist groups makes huge jump despite ethics investigations (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Interstate Highway Program

Highway blues: Federal promotion of interstate highways has been a mixed blessing (Reno News & Review article)

Unwarranted Surveillance

__________

From The Neon Empire

Internet Gambling

Casinos And Condos

__________

Nevada's Past

Women And The V&TRR

==========================================

July 12, 2006

[10:30 AM]

_____

Nevada Politics

2006 Candidate Overview

Jon Ralston waits impatiently for a candidate in a major race to focus on issues relevant to the public, rather than empty rhetoric and hyperbole (Las Vegas Sun column)

2006 Governor's Race

State Sen. Titus And Mayor Gibson

2006 Congressional Races

Congressional District 2

Congressional District 3

National Education Association And American Federation of Teachers Endorse Hafen (Hafen Campaign Press Release)

2006 Ballot Initiatives And Petitions

Eminent Domain

Tax And Spending Control (TASC)

Let it Go to the Polls (Sean Schmitt column, Shoot a Liberal)

__________

Nevada Government

State Government

Battle Against Meth

2005 Legislature's Ill-Conceived "No Standing" Law

New law flawed: Attorney general, lawmaker call for rewrite of new law dealing with pollution (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"Some elected officials don't want people to know how often they take gifts and who gives them those gifts."

JANE ANN MORRISON: Elected officials have gift for defining freebies as educational conferences (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

LEGAL OPINION: Chanos approves initiative -- Typo in Tax and Spending Control measure 'not fatal' (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The proposal would entitle property owners to have juries determine that the land to be taken is for a public use, not for private development. Compensation would be the highest price the property would bring on the open market and not a lesser fair market value now offered. And property owners would not be liable for attorney fees."

Backers of eminent domain curbs respond to criticism (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

SUSPICIONS SURFACE: Augustine husband slits wrists -- Apparent suicide attempt comes as police probe death (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Augustine's husband slits his wrists (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Bongiovi v. Sullivan

Plastic surgeon loses Nevada high court appeal (Nevada AP article)

Mikohn Gaming v. Espinosa

Kerala Properties, Inc. v. Familian

Baltazar-Monterrosa v. State

Nevada court rules on police interpreters (Nevada AP article)

Shoen v. SAC Holding Corp.

McCarran Int’l Airport v. Sisolak

Court upholds judgment against airport: Businessman awarded $6.5 million for restrictions that reduced property value (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Airport restrictions constitute a 'taking': High court upholds award to property owner (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

Hall v. Enterprise Leasing Co.

Ennis v. State

Hudson v. Jones

Abbott v. State

Griffin v. State

Volvo Cars of North America v. Ricci

State v. Powell

Nevada death sentence reinstated (Nevada AP article)

"Cox Communications, which plans to move into the former Veterans Affairs building in central Las Vegas, wants to buy 7.69 acres of nearby land from the city for $1."

RELOCATION PLAN: Cox seeks 7.69 acres for a dollar -- Council to consider request (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"A look at six recently built facilities similar to what local officials are considering here reveals that tax hikes seem to accompany arenas."

In search of a site, arena task force needs ideas (Las Vegas Sun article)

"The council had been expected to vote in favor of the proposal, but so many people showed up in protest that the council decided to postpone the vote until after a public hearing Mayor George Chachas said."

Ely defers vote on water agency offer: Opponents of piping plan call for hearing (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The Southern Nevada Water Authority's plans to pump ground water from White Pine County have roiled the rural area for years - and two sons of Greek immigrants are at the center of the controversy."

Putting it to a vote: Ely brothers want referendum on Water Authority's pumping plan (Las Vegas Sun article)

Layoff notices set for Yucca staff: Workers to be warned about reorganization of planned nuclear waste repository (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Last radioactive waste leaves Ohio for Nevada (Nevada AP article)

The 'do-nothing' Congress: And why is that so bad? (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

Congress not above the law: Judge correctly rules that congressional offices are not exempt from warranted searches (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"Congress needs to stop wasting time with inflammatory rhetoric and establish rules that are clear, humane and fair. And it needs to do so soon. Waiting until next year to figure out how the United States is going to treat those its military detains is irresponsible."

Tribunals questioned: Congress, Bush administration at odds over military's trials for terrorism suspects (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Peppermill fuels boom in Wendover (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Landowners seek high price: 'Project Neon Lights' may become home to new casino (Las Vegas Sun article)

Nevada's Past

Class of '41 witnessed changing desert town: Graduates of Las Vegas High to gather in September (Las Vegas Sun article)

Nevada incumbents pull far ahead in money race (Nevada AP article)

Hafen money in; Carter money out (Hugh Jackson column, Las Vegas Gleaner)

Java With Jack Carter On The Campaign Trail (Myrna the Minx column, Reno and Its Discontents)

A STATE OF DECLINE: What TASC Would Mean for Nevada (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities Report)

Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

Apple-cheeked Secretary of State (Fred Weinberg column, Liberty Watch The Magazine, via Battleborn Opinion News)

Marijuana legalization? No thanks (Guy W. Framer column, Nevada Appeal*)

"We must ask ourselves: What is the proper role of government? What services must we provide? What's the most efficient way to provide these services? And what's the best way to pay for them?"

Jon Ralston on how candidates need a reality check (Las Vegas Sun column)

Democrats blue over rural vote: New push could weaken GOP strongholds (Las Vegas Sun article)

Importing politics from the Golden State (Kirk Caraway column, Nevada Appeal*)

Malone's attorneys want trial moved: Ex-commissioner faces bribery, corruption charges (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"In the past decade, a series of Southern Nevada private lenders, also known as hard-money lenders, have fallen like dominoes, often wiping out the life savings of unwary investors. All of this has happened under the noses of state regulators, who learned of irregularities but failed to intervene until many more investors had been drawn into unwise and sometimes fraudulent schemes."

IN DEPTH: HARD MONEY LENDING: Ill-fated investments -- Regulators fail to catch fraudulent businesses before they go under, often killing investors' life savings (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Only lightly regulated by the state of Nevada and poorly understood by the public, the hard-money lending industry operates with little attention until a company bankruptcy raises screams of anguish from ruined investors."

IN DEPTH: Industry has played key role in area's growth (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"A decade after the first of the major mortgage lending scandals that rocked the retirement community of Southern Nevada, there are people in graveyards still waiting for justice."

IN DEPTH: Harmon led string of mortgage scandals -- Some valley cases still pending as investors wait (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"If you interfere with me providing a livelihood for my family,' Rusticali recalls Hantges said, 'I'll cut your legs off and bury you in the desert.'"

IN DEPTH: The man behind USA Capital -- Former business associates tell of street fighter instincts (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The greed in Nevada's trust deed investment scandals was exhibited not by investors but by mortgage lenders licensed by the state yet inadequately policed by it, she said."

IN DEPTH: Victimized investor blames lack of enforcement -- Woman's $100,000 stands at risk (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"But instead of investigating his suspicions that investors were being cheated, Costa said Scott Walshaw, then commissioner of the agency, simply referred him to the warning that such lenders are required to carry at the bottom of an ad, saying such investments are not guaranteed to pay interest."

IN DEPTH: Investor accepts only partial blame -- Man says federal government forces seniors into questionable investments (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

IN DEPTH: Seniors forced to continue working after losing savings in Global Express affair (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

HARD-MONEY LENDING: 'I'll probably end up living with my kids' -- Man, girlfriend, parents lose much of retirement nest egg when Global Express forced into receivership (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

IN DEPTH: Investor laments government's appointment of receiver (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

IN DEPTH: The sport's rough, but he keeps scoring -- In business, in private, lender is on fast track (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

IN DEPTH: Longtime lender says success in his game about much more than mere rates (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

IN DEPTH: Word to wise: 'Different avenue' of investment not for all (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Jones -- in addition to being listed as a treasurer of the company in 2004 -- is identified on a business card circulated in Family Court as being part of "Team Hancock." Under the Team Hancock business logo is Jones' name and the words, "The Judge." Jones is no longer listed as a corporate officer of the company."

Family judge linked to felon: Ties may violate judicial rules (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"I am interested in whether Judge Jones or other public officials have been trading on the image and credibility of their office for personal gain."

JOHN L. SMITH: Add business partner of a felon to Family Court judge's resume (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

Town Hall meeting sheds light on far-reaching effects of meth (Nevada Appeal* article)

"Because police possess such awesome authority, governments have an absolute duty to ensure officers carry out their charge within the confines of the law. If citizens believe their cops are prone to shooting first and asking questions later, fear and suspicion can erode the public's confidence in their police."

When transparency is not enough: Inquest system needs reform (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

DEVELOPMENT: First pay this, then this and this ... -- Getting building permits means coping with confusion and costs, builders say (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

URINATION AND DEFECATION: Ruling leaves a big stink -- Las Vegas without ordinance prohibiting relief in public (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

City goes to Phase Three of taxiway (Elko Free Press article)

Railport master plan on agenda for special meeting (Elko Free Press article)

"The Spring Creek Association is urging residents and businesses hooked into the local sewer system to call them if they have concerns about a proposal that will increase their rates by as much as 9,000 percent over the next nine years."

PUC Spring Creek sewer hike ‘beyond our comprehension’ (Elko Free Press article)

"The Council heard a resounding “no” from the public attending the meeting. People believed the draft agreement was a bad offer and would compromise the future of the area. Emotions ran high, and speakers received generous applause."

Public speaks out against City-SNWA agreement (Ely Times article)

SNWA woos Ely next (Ely Times article)

County picks expert witnesses for SNWA hearings (Ely Times article)

"Nearly 50 residents of Nevada and Utah, including ranchers, farmers and business owners, petitioned the Nevada State Engineer on Friday, July 7, to re-open the protest period on the Southern Nevada Water Authority's (SNWA) bid to secure groundwater in rural basins north of Las Vegas."

Groups petition to reopen SNWA protest period (Ely Times article)

GEOFF SCHUMACHER: Prolonged drought a worry for state (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

Stillwater refuge thrives on increased water supply (Lahontan Valley News* article)

Peppermill's growing playground (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Elko off as state win nears record levels (Elko Free Press article)

TRIP OF THE WEEK: Austin's colorful history, outdoor attractions lure visitors (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

A little story about The Big Bonanza: Iconic Comstock Lode illustration turns out to be a fraud (Nevada Appeal* column)

POLITICAL NOTEBOOK: Foe questions Gibbons' pride over revenge -- Beers challenges lawmaker's 'moral compass' (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Ensign has been rewarded mightily for his high-tech work, bringing in more than $517,230 in campaign contributions from the communications/electronics sector - about half from computer/Internet and telephone companies - since joining the Senate in 2001, according to the Center for Responsive Politics."

Ensign becomes GOP tech star: Telecom bill could alter access to the Internet (Las Vegas Sun article)

Ensign works to boost clout in Senate GOP (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Congressional District 2

Has Heller lost his Mojo? (Monday Morning Pundit, Reno and Its Discontents)

Congressional District 3

IMMIGRATION REFORM: Porter in middle on border -- Republican votes for House bill, backs Senate version (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Civic Apathy Means That You Enjoy Being Ripped Off

Lomax said he expects a low turnout of about 25 percent of registered voters in this primary. As primary nears, voter registrations stay low (Las Vegas Sun article)

"In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the progressive movement altered the nation and its government. Reformers amended the U.S. Constitution to elect senators directly, and Nevadans clamored for this change, thanks to several stunningly corrupt legislative sessions that featured more bribes than bills."

Law by ballot: Is it dangerous? (Michael Green column, Las Vegas Business Press)

"'We don't have a Real ID budget,' admitted Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles spokesman Tom Jacobs. 'Until the feds decide what the rules will be, there isn't a state in the union that can say what it will cost.'"

State in the dark concerning Real ID mandate: In 2 years, getting NV driver's license could be nightmare (Las Vegas Business Press article)

New development planned off of Rice Road (Lahontan Valley News* article)

"Midnight Cowboy Court is what most Las Vegans would consider a nice neighborhood. It has homes worth more than a half-million dollars, with three-car garages and well-kept yards."

Authorities suspect upscale home hosts escort service (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"A lakefront property owners group filed a Freedom of Information Act request last month to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, asking for all documents related to its upcoming ordinances to regulate piers and buoys on Lake Tahoe."

Lakefront group wants TRPA answers (North Lake Tahoe Bonanza article)

"Incline residents embroiled in the Incline Vision/place based/Pathway 2007 process may actually see some long-waited results of individual group members sharing and implementing ideas Monday evening in Incline."

Incline Vision finds 'pathway' to success (North Lake Tahoe Bonanza article)

Commission okays 8% salary hike for County Manager: By 3-2 vote; initial motion of 6% amended to maximum (Mason Valley News article)

Desire to lessen irrigation strain leads PlanCom to deny land use change (Mason Valley News article)

South Yerington zone changes withdrawn (Mason Valley News article)

Mine site cleanup split into six areas: Arimetco portion not on ARCO’s plate (Mason Valley News article)

Mine cleanup dead end could yield bigger push for Superfund (Mason Valley News article)

Nevada Culture

Basque sports: Bring your own boulder (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

"Far too often, government documents are considered "secret till proven otherwise." But in a government of limited powers, delegated and jealously guarded by a "civilian" populace who remain in overall charge, the default setting must be just the opposite. What bureaucrats are doing with our money must be open and public, unless a good reason can be shown to the contrary."

Do you want to know a secret? But what if the government doesn't want you to know? (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

"According to a story by the Washington Post, the White House and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Arlen Specter, R-Pa., negotiated a deal in which Bush will allow a federal intelligence court to review the constitutionality of the National Security Agency program. The deal also requires that all lawsuits challenging the president's eavesdropping program be submitted to those secret proceedings as well."

It's still a bad deal: Bush's domestic surveillance compromise hides much and promises little (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Nevada's Past

Seeing the Comstock's mining ruins through the digital lens: Carson man inspired by digital advances to resume a long-forgotten hobby (Nevada Appeal* article)

Post-modern Guinn (Las Vegas Sun article)

Postmodern Portraits of Gov. Guinn (Las Vegas Sun pictorial feature)

"Under existing Taxicab Authority rules to secure a certificate of public convenience and necessity, an applicant must file an application and then defend it before the five-member Taxicab Authority board. Through the process, "interveners" are invited to testify. Interveners normally are existing taxi companies and labor unions that represent cabdrivers."

Cab venture faces tough road (In Business Las Vegas article)

Ensign announces $3.1 million for Blue Diamond Highway (Sen. Ensign Press Release)

Reid: Committee passage of funding bill will make southern Nevada safer and smarter (Sen. Reid Press Release)

From The Neon Empire

Gaming: New Jersey has different attitude toward gaming (In Business Las Vegas article)

Titus, Gibson race a sign of the times: Primary campaign often turns negative (Las Vegas Sun article)

Polls Conflict In Primary Race

JOHN L. SMITH: Polls, for what they're worth, show this horse race ain't over yet (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

SurveyUSA Poll (SurveyUSA website via Las Vegas Gleaner)

Porn star's fundraiser far from typical political event (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Heller raises more funds than GOP foes in House race (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

On The Road With The Politicos: Congressional District 2 (Nevada Observer article)

The will of the people (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

"State Controller Steve Martin, appointed last week to replace the late Kathy Augustine, might be able to serve only one term if he wins the November election, according to an attorney general's staffer."

Additional term in question for new controller (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Longtime Lyon County School Board trustee won't run again, three people vying for position (Nevada Appeal* article)

Walk-in voter registrations still accepted (Nevada Appeal* article)

KATHY AUGUSTINE: Autopsy analysis awaited -- Stepchildren might press to exhume their father's body (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles had accused the half-dozen companies of using fake emission inspection reports to certify a total of 118 taxis that hadn't been smog tested, as required by law."

SMOG FALSIFICATION CLAIMS: Four cab companies settle cases -- Officials of two firms request appeal hearings with DMV (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Robert Poole, transportation director for the Reason Foundation, told The AP that private investors can raise more money than politicians to build new roads because private owners are willing to raise tolls."

Wave of the future for transportation? Private ownership catching on for roads, bridges (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

North Las Vegas enters into binding arbitration with union: 500 city employees working without contract for more than a year (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The Sparks Planning Commission denied developer Harvey Whittemore and Peppermill Casinos' $100 million plans for a resort, but the council can override the 4-3 commission vote."

Planners reject Sparks casino (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

"Nevada System of Higher Education officials have promised the public that attending board members won't discuss board business on the trip. The board has violated the open meeting law in the past."

Regent won't go fishing: Dondero decides not to make a quorum (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Last week the authority announced plans to buy the 7,000-acre Robison Ranch in White Pine County's Spring Valley for $22 million. It also said it will buy a 1,370-acre ranch in the same area for $4.9 million."

Water authority to buy Warm Springs Ranch (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"A third key piece of property needed for major restoration work on the lower Truckee River is in the public's hands, a conservation group said Monday."

102 Ranch purchase to jumpstart project to repair lower river (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

"Federal and local law enforcement agents posing undercover netted about 10,000 grams of methamphetamine and arrested nearly 100 dealers and traffickers during a two-phase operation that began in 2005."

Agents join forces, fight drugs: Law enforcement agencies work together to arrest dealers, traffickers (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Methamphetamine remains number one drug problem according to new survey of the nation’s counties: Meth related crimes continue to grow; epidemic moving west to east (National Association of Counties Press Release)

The Meth Epidemic: The Criminal Effect of Meth on Communities (National Association of Counties Report)

National Association of Counties website

"We can't afford the increased crime that use of the drug brings and the prison space that the users eventually require. We can't afford the destruction it brings to families, and we can't afford the economic consequences."

Meth can't be ignored (Reno Gazette-Journal editorial)

Inaccuracy fixed: Gibbons mystified by incorrect listing -- Books identified him as Protestant rather than Mormon (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

New controller tries to settle into position: Other candidate complains about Martin being appointed to post (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

New Nevada controller living in travel trailer (Nevada AP article)

Jackass fire lives up to name: stubborn: 6,200 acres burned by Tuesday afternoon, emphasis on protecting structures (Nevada Appeal* article)

Rain helps slow Nevada wildfire; thunderstorms add concern (Nevada AP article)

Fire on state line reaches 6,000 acres (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Airport solution will require follow-through (Nevada Appeal* article)

Commission OKs Valentine as new county manager: Veteran administrator to take over for departing Reilly on Aug. 11 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The company will ask the Las Vegas City Council today to sell three parcels of adjacent land totaling 7.69 acres for $1. The land, which will be used for parking, has been appraised by the city at just over $4 million."

Cox announces new digs: Group criticizes proposal to sell 7.69 acres for $1 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"It would be much easier to take Oscar Goodman at his word if there weren't so many of them that contradicted each other."

Jon Ralston notes that Las Vegas' mayor might have violated codes governing conduct by lawyers (Las Vegas Sun column)

No trumpets for schools study: Bush administration muffles education report contradicting its official policy (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Comparing Private Schools and Public Schools Using Hierarchical Linear Modeling (National Center for Education Statistics)

"Natural gas and electric power customers will get a break on rates if a state district judge approves a $30 million lawsuit settlement agreement."

Power settlement could save ratepayers money (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

New target set for receiving waste at Yucca: DOE estimates proposed repository won't be ready for shipments until 2017 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Those in charge of the charade have abandoned even the pretense that they're seeking input into the problems of illegal immigration."

Immigration hearings waste of time (Reno Gazette-Journal editorial)

Hotter planet, more wildfires: Scientists warn global warming affecting frequency, intensity of the fires (Las Vegas Sun article)

"The only chance to rescue the future from the disastrous environmental effects of earlier springs, hotter summers, more and bigger wildfires and melting icebergs is to move more quickly on replacing fossil fuels. It is up to us, and our governments and industries, to heed the mounting warnings that scientists are sounding."

We must heed the warning: Scientists say that global warming is upon us, and it is time we acted to save the future (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Reid, Ensign split on stem cell research bill (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Shouldn't be a hard cell: President Bush's opposition to stem cell research shows stubborn ignorance (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"Collusion occurs when two or more players work together as a team to win more money from their opponents . It's costly and unfair to the honest players."

Jeff Haney on the best way to handle three stooges trying to cheat (Las Vegas Sun column)

Nevada Journalism

Media bias is inescapable, but it's also a sign of freedom (Robert Cutts column, Nevada Appeal*)

Poll questions (Steve Sebelius column, Las Vegas CityLife)

Titus loves education and thinks Gibson is a crook; Gibson says Titus is a liar (Vegas Pundit website)

Nevada Republicans accept donations from brothel owner (Nevada AP article)

Angle, Heller Nearly Even In Money Available For Primary (Angle Campaign Press Release)

New opening date for Yucca Mountain waste dump is 2017 (Nevada AP article)

Sorry, TNO readers -- DOE has nothing posted on their website yet.

Ensign: DOE's Yucca timeline not based in science or reality (Sen. Ensign Press Release)

Reid presses for swift evacuation of Americans wishing to leave Lebanon (Sen. Reid Press Release)

Information for American Citizens in Lebanon (Rep. Gibbons Press Release)

Lebanon Update: Title XVII Sec. 201 Emergency Evacuation Services (Desert Beacon blog)

Ensign, Alexander give students in underperforming schools a choice (Sen. Ensign Press Release)

Reid works to secure funding for court security, law enforcement (Sen. Reid Press Release)

"Federal and local law enforcement agents posing undercover netted about 10,000 grams of methamphetamine and arrested nearly 100 dealers and traffickers during a two-phase operation that began in 2005."

Agents join forces, fight drugs: Law enforcement agencies work together to arrest dealers, traffickers (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Methamphetamine remains number one drug problem according to new survey of the nation’s counties: Meth related crimes continue to grow; epidemic moving west to east (National Association of Counties Press Release)

The Meth Epidemic: The Criminal Effect of Meth on Communities (National Association of Counties Report)

National Association of Counties website

"We can't afford the increased crime that use of the drug brings and the prison space that the users eventually require. We can't afford the destruction it brings to families, and we can't afford the economic consequences."

Meth can't be ignored (Reno Gazette-Journal editorial)

Inaccuracy fixed: Gibbons mystified by incorrect listing -- Books identified him as Protestant rather than Mormon (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

New controller tries to settle into position: Other candidate complains about Martin being appointed to post (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

New Nevada controller living in travel trailer (Nevada AP article)

Jackass fire lives up to name: stubborn: 6,200 acres burned by Tuesday afternoon, emphasis on protecting structures (Nevada Appeal* article)

Rain helps slow Nevada wildfire; thunderstorms add concern (Nevada AP article)

Fire on state line reaches 6,000 acres (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Airport solution will require follow-through (Nevada Appeal* article)

Commission OKs Valentine as new county manager: Veteran administrator to take over for departing Reilly on Aug. 11 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The company will ask the Las Vegas City Council today to sell three parcels of adjacent land totaling 7.69 acres for $1. The land, which will be used for parking, has been appraised by the city at just over $4 million."

Cox announces new digs: Group criticizes proposal to sell 7.69 acres for $1 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"It would be much easier to take Oscar Goodman at his word if there weren't so many of them that contradicted each other."

Jon Ralston notes that Las Vegas' mayor might have violated codes governing conduct by lawyers (Las Vegas Sun column)

No trumpets for schools study: Bush administration muffles education report contradicting its official policy (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Comparing Private Schools and Public Schools Using Hierarchical Linear Modeling (National Center for Education Statistics)

"Natural gas and electric power customers will get a break on rates if a state district judge approves a $30 million lawsuit settlement agreement."

Power settlement could save ratepayers money (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

New target set for receiving waste at Yucca: DOE estimates proposed repository won't be ready for shipments until 2017 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Those in charge of the charade have abandoned even the pretense that they're seeking input into the problems of illegal immigration."

Immigration hearings waste of time (Reno Gazette-Journal editorial)

Hotter planet, more wildfires: Scientists warn global warming affecting frequency, intensity of the fires (Las Vegas Sun article)

"The only chance to rescue the future from the disastrous environmental effects of earlier springs, hotter summers, more and bigger wildfires and melting icebergs is to move more quickly on replacing fossil fuels. It is up to us, and our governments and industries, to heed the mounting warnings that scientists are sounding."

We must heed the warning: Scientists say that global warming is upon us, and it is time we acted to save the future (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Reid, Ensign split on stem cell research bill (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Shouldn't be a hard cell: President Bush's opposition to stem cell research shows stubborn ignorance (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"Collusion occurs when two or more players work together as a team to win more money from their opponents . It's costly and unfair to the honest players."

Jeff Haney on the best way to handle three stooges trying to cheat (Las Vegas Sun column)

Nevada Journalism

Media bias is inescapable, but it's also a sign of freedom (Robert Cutts column, Nevada Appeal*)

Poll questions (Steve Sebelius column, Las Vegas CityLife)

Titus loves education and thinks Gibson is a crook; Gibson says Titus is a liar (Vegas Pundit website)

Nevada Republicans accept donations from brothel owner (Nevada AP article)

Angle, Heller Nearly Even In Money Available For Primary (Angle Campaign Press Release)

New opening date for Yucca Mountain waste dump is 2017 (Nevada AP article)

Sorry, TNO readers -- DOE has nothing posted on their website yet.

Ensign: DOE's Yucca timeline not based in science or reality (Sen. Ensign Press Release)

Reid presses for swift evacuation of Americans wishing to leave Lebanon (Sen. Reid Press Release)

Information for American Citizens in Lebanon (Rep. Gibbons Press Release)

Lebanon Update: Title XVII Sec. 201 Emergency Evacuation Services (Desert Beacon blog)

Ensign, Alexander give students in underperforming schools a choice (Sen. Ensign Press Release)

Reid works to secure funding for court security, law enforcement (Sen. Reid Press Release)

Titus says she's the "real Democrat" in gubernatorial primary (Nevada AP article)

GUBERNATORIAL CAMPAIGN: Titus says she's not anti-Northern Nevada -- Past criticism of region returns in rival's TV ads (Las Vegas Review-Journal article)

Gibson proposes state effort: Gubernatorial hopeful would put $10 million toward stem cell research (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Jim Gibson, social progressive (Hugh Jackson column, Las Vegas Gleaner)

Stem-cell research hits campaign trail (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Beers Closing In on Gibbons, New Poll Shows (Battleborn Opinion News)

Beers on his way (he hopes) to top office (Pahrump Valley Times article)

NVEST Program

"Typically, when an executive with a financial company asks how to invest in Nevada, the state throws its arms open. But an inquiry by a Mellon Financial vice president to the state Board of Finance earlier this year so rankled Treasurer Brian Krolicki, a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, it sent him on a personal jihad."

ERIN NEFF: Treasurer tirade (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

Brian Krolicki hits the airwaves (Vegas Pundit website)

TASC opponents seize on analyses: Studies examine effects of such an initiative on past spending (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Veirs' two surgery liens totaling $40,311 were purchased by Nevada Medical Investments. Soon after her settlement, the business wanted Veirs to pay $234,000 to settle the liens. Seems like a pretty generous profit for the company, but hey, its America, right?"

JANE ANN MORRISON : Suspected collusion in personal injury lawsuits may have a far reach (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

"Military veterans who get help from caseworkers qualify for $6,225 more on average in annual VA benefits. But in Nevada there is a severe shortage of caseworkers, according to information given to a House subcommittee Wednesday."

Some vets miss out on $6,225 a year: Few caseworkers in state to help applicants (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"There is a correlation between taxpayer discontent and the sizes of the governments that serve them. If Nevadans want smaller constituencies and more local elected boards, the Legislature should take steps to make such change easier to accomplish."

Why not incorporation? Can local politicians adequately represent their constituents? (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

Sage grouse habitat threatened (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Rain subdues Jackass fire (Nevada Appeal* article)

Supervisors to consider charter changes (Nevada Appeal* article)

Feeding homeless outlawed: ACLU calls measure unenforceable (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

One of the Boys: Elko hires first female firefighter (Elko Free Press article)

ECVA grants total $27,500 (Elko Free Press article)

Farming in the valley not what it used to be (Pahrump Valley Times article)

Commission to consider jail, casino site (Pahrump Valley Times article)

"A decision by Nye Regional Medical Center to only handle prisoners' medical claims in case of an emergency could create a liability for Nye County, Sheriff Tony DeMeo told the county commissioners Tuesday."

Medical center decision may create liability, sheriff warns (Pahrump Valley Times article)

UNLV's new president makes visible impression (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"The director of finance for the Churchill County School District recently said old fluorescent light fixtures leaking a toxic chemical pose no health risks to students or staff after test results showed low levels of the substance."

School samples show wide range of PCB levels (Lahontan Valley News* article)

Water official tries to dispel water worries (Pahrump Valley Times article)

BLM reopens comment period on Vegas water plan (Nevada AP article)

Lyon commissioners to consider water rights transfer from Douglas (Nevada Appeal* article)

DOE Announces Yucca Mountain License Application Schedule: New Director Ward Sproat Testifies on Revised Timeline (DOE website)

Yucca Mountain Statement of Edward F. Sproat III, Director of the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management, to Congressional Subcommittee (DOE website)

Reid statement regarding revised schedule for proposed Yucca Mountain nuclear waste dump (Sen. Reid Press Release)

Bush White House, GOP Declare 2017 New "Mission Accomplished" Date for Turning Nevada into a Nuclear Garbage Dump (Rep. Berkley Press Release)

Lawmakers question new cost for Yucca: Revised schedule leads some to wonder about other estimates to complete project (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Doubts Raised Over Nuclear Waste Plan (Nevada AP article)

"With each passing year, additional evidence keeps accumulating that shows how dangerous it is to ship nuclear waste thousands of miles to Nevada and how unsafe it is to bury the waste in the seismically active region where Yucca Mountain is located. Nonetheless, the federal government, prodded along by the nuclear power industry, has pushed for Yucca Mountain's opening."

Let nuke waste stay put: Transporting radioactive material across country is a misguided proposition (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"Yet another scandal involving reckless spending by federal employees has been uncovered. This latest scandal involves purchases made by dozens of Homeland Security employees on their government-issued credit cards."

A question of leadership: Spending sprees hardly inspire confidence in key administration department (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Reid fights for historic stem cell bill (Sen. Reid Press Release)

Reid condemns Bush stem cell veto (Sen. Reid Press Release)

Stem-cell veto fuels emotions (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

"Those are the pressure tactics that homeowners in the Las Vegas neighborhood of Richfield Village say they are getting from real estate agents trying to buy up the entire neighborhood - on behalf of anonymous business interests."

Neighbors claim they're being pressured to sell (Las Vegas Sun article)

Nevada Journalism

Who is this guy anyway? New editor says hello (Pahrump Valley Times editorial)

Las Vegas Sands sues Sun over business column (Las Vegas Sun article)

Will Titus' past comments hurt her in the present? (Ray Hagar column, Reno Gazette-Journal)

More Titus: Heated Clark commission race could help her, some experts say (Ray Hagar column, Reno Gazette-Journal)

Thin Skin (Chuck Muth column, Battleborn Opinion News)

Barbara Lee Woollen and the conservative Republicans (Ray Hagar column, Reno Gazette-Journal)

"The suit asserts that the initiative would violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution by giving eminent domain plaintiffs special rights and give them "windfall compensation." It also covers multiple subjects and various parts of the state constitution, which violates state law."

Opponents sue to kill property initiative (Las Vegas Business Press article)

Nevada court fight starts over eminent domain limits (Nevada AP article)

"Two boxers die in 2005; two more suffer career-ending brain damage. A state advisory committee is formed to recommend how to make the sport safer. Now, the report to the Nevada State Athletic Commission is in, but the tough issues are not addressed. Does this mean they'll go away? Not likely."

KID GLOVES (Las Vegas Sun article)

"There can be no doubt--none--that groups and individuals are attempting to take political advantage of the attempted assassination of Judge Weller and brutal murder of Charla Mack. It may be up to those groups or individuals to try to influence how the public perceives their motives, but it is not this newspaper's responsibility to help them."

We beg to differ (Reno News & Review editorial)

Pantano v. State

Nevada Power Co. v. Public Util. Comm’n

State high court grants big Nevada Power rate increase (Nevada AP article)

"Rifle through the 2,800 permitted racks on county sidewalks and you'll find advertisements for strippers, topless clubs and escort services. What you won't find is a newspaper."

Smut dealers play games with newsrack rules (Las Vegas Sun article)

Sluts are people, too: Sex workers demand respect on the steps of the Regional Justice Center (Las Vegas CityLife article)

Thanks for reading, Metro! Metro Police vice investigators are apparently big fans of CityLife. (Las Vegas CityLife article)

County not out of woods yet with West Nile virus: All it takes is a bite from an infected mosquito (Fernley Leader-Courier article)

Board to consider sewer planning project agreements (Fernley Leader-Courier article)

City annexes 224 acres (Fernley Leader-Courier article)

Up To 1200 New Homes

Plan Com OKs Bright Homes master plan amendment (Fernley Leader-Courier article)

Airport Manager calls for Commissioners to take over SSGID (Fernley Leader-Courier article)

Ruckman resigns from SSGID board (Fernley Leader-Courier article)

Nevada Mining

Bad 'samaritans' (Velma Smith column, Las Vegas CityLife)

Berkley Wins Full Funding for Southern Nevada VA Medical Center: House Veterans Committee Passes Legislation Authorizing $406 Million for Project (Rep. Berkley Press Release)

Derby's position was right all along (Desert Beacon blog)

Nevada's Past

Melvin's back: Melvin Dummar still wants his share of the Howard Hughes estate (Reno News & Review article)

Gibbons takes campaign to television: Hopeful is last of major governor candidates to air spots (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Titus Still Leads Handily, New Poll Shows (Battleborn Opinion News)

Jon Ralston on Las Vegas doctors counting unhatched chickens, Dina Titus trying to prove her love for Reno and GOP senators afraid of a debate (Las Vegas Sun column)

Even in death, Augustine exerts political influence (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Barrier's friend Steve Miller, a former Las Vegas councilman, thought it was proof that Rizzolo's attorneys were trying to get an order into the record that was more favorable to Rizzolo by finding a second judge to sign their order - one who may have felt indebted to Rizzolo because of a campaign contribution."

Judge lands in middle of feud: Saitta's stamp at issue in parking-space flap between strip club, auto shop (Las Vegas Sun article)

Lawsuit seeks to kill ballot question: Attempt to rein in eminent domain power potentially crippling, according to coalition (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Nevada's system for investigating and resolving complaints against judges is drawing criticism from those who say it moves too slowly and operates too often in secret.

Judging the judges: Judicial oversight commission needs to work faster and work in public (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

SHOOTINGS BY POLICE: Inquest system defended -- Police union would back letting state attorney general conduct inquiries (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Paraphrasing one of the real estate agents, a resident told the Las Vegas Sun, 'He said you'll want to sell when yours is the only house left and there are a dozen bulldozers all around you'."

Shed light on home offers: A Las Vegas neighborhood is facing a major change of character from an unknown buyer (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"The department's National Nuclear Security Administration informed the counterterrorism institute in writing this week that it has authority to withhold $5 million in unused funding if the institute does not comply with the terms of its original 2004 grant and explain why it has strayed from its objectives."

Feds to UNLV anti-terror school: Explain or else (Las Vegas Sun article)

Nevada Utilities

"State Sen. Dina Titus, a Democratic candidate for governor, said voters are angry as they watch shares in Nevada Power parent Sierra Pacific Resources climb, executive compensation get richer and bills continue to rise."

COURT DECISION: Electric rates to increase -- Nevada Power awarded $180 million in 2002 case (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"This week, certain lawmakers on Capitol Hill were brimming with hope as they spoke with the enthusiastic new director of the planned nuclear waste burial site at Yucca Mountain. Edward Sproat is a turnaround expert from the private sector, a can-do guy determined to breathe new life into the project 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas."

Light banter fills room at latest Yucca hearing (Las Vegas Sun article)

Official: No plan to reduce benefits for Cold War workers -- Document suggested options to contain costs (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

IMMIGRANT SWEEP: The knock on the door -- Federal agents arrive in dark of night to round up 'fugitive aliens' (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"How a president wields his veto pen lays bare his principles and core philosophy. That Mr. Bush chose the issue of stem-cell research to finally exercise this power -- ignoring previous opportunities to veto budget-busting, pork-laden spending bills or constitutionally dubious campaign finance legislation -- should put to rest the notion that the president feels strongly about the concepts of fiscal responsibility and a limited federal government."

Veto power (Las Vegas Review-Journal* editorial)

"State Sen. Dina Titus, Gibson's opponent in the Democratic primary, said Gibson has shown a pattern of using his office for personal benefit. She cited a $150,000 campaign contribution from developer Anthony Marnell III, who donated to Gibson's coffers after the mayor helped him secure a parcel of federal land for a planned resort."

Gibson calls 2001 vote on deal an 'oversight': Henderson mayor says his law firm had ties to group (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt has long been a friend of Southern Nevada's business and political establishment. All the more surprising then, when she lashed out at some of those allies this week, saying she had been subjected to subtle sexism that has stymied her campaign for governor."

Nevada's 'last glass ceiling': Hunt uses 's' word as her campaign for governor bangs its head (Las Vegas Sun article)

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR: Candidate's voting record criticized -- Krolicki also questions Woollen's business ties (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Krolicki’s Porn Charge Doesn’t Hold Water (Chuck Muth column, Battleborn Opinion News)

Heller: TASC going on ballot in November -- Petition would limit state spending (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Heller sends Tax and Spend question to voters (Nevada Appeal* article)

Spending initiative on ballot (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

TASC Backers Finally Concede: Muth Was Right (Chuck Muth column, Battleborn Opinion News)

District judge candidates outline their qualifications (Lahontan Valley News* article)

Candidates for justice of peace exhort impartiality (Lahontan Valley News* article)

Three vying for votes to become county recorder (Lahontan Valley News* article)

Assembly, commission candidates face off in debate (Nevada Appeal* article)

"The figures show the new state budget will increase by about $1 billion over the current spending plan, to $6.9 billion. All but $126 million of the new money will go for ongoing programs, however, including more children in public schools, higher insurance costs for state employees and teachers, increased Medicaid caseloads and 2 percent per year cost-of-living increases."

$1 BILLION BUDGET INCREASE: Guinn dispels surplus notions -- Governor outlines two-year spending plan (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Guinn proposes 2 percent raise each year for state workers, teachers (Nevada Appeal* article)

Nevada Governor: Growing costs eat up higher state revenues (Nevada AP article)

Unemployment up slightly, but no worries (Las Vegas Business Press article)

Nevada unemployment rate increases to 4.2 percent in June (Nevada AP article)

Construction still leads job growth (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

USA CAPITAL: Lender referred to FBI, SEC -- Company filed for bankruptcy in April (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Ex-cybersecurity head bound over on two felony counts (Nevada Appeal* article)

Police bust suspected brothel in upscale community (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Real Estate and Development: Affordable housing solutions emerge too slowly (In Business Las Vegas* article)

Elko sales zoom 19.7 percent (Elko Free Press article)

Second phase of railport plan moving ahead (Elko Free Press article)

"The pair will involve the apportionment of oil lease royalties from Railroad Valley and the formation of a Nye County water district and topped the wish list of county commissioners' wish list when they met Tuesday."

County to submit two bill requests (Pahrump Valley Times article)

"Seventh Judicial District Judges Stephen Dobrescu and Dan L. Papez, along with White Pine County Sheriff Bernie Romero say that meth use has exploded in and around the county in the past two to four years."

Methamphetamine use behind most Ely crimes (Ely Times article)

"Ely Mayor George Chachas complained at the last White Pine County Commission meeting that he doesn't like the legal representation he gets from the District Attorney's Office, which also serves as the city attorney's office."

County Commission (Ely Times article)

"UNLV officials, under pressure from regents and Chancellor Jim Rogers, took steps Friday to make public a heavily censored federal grant application submitted by the university's Institute for Security Studies."

UNLV regents still in dark over secretive institute (Las Vegas Sun article)

"Some members of the audience at the July 13 meeting believed the council was trying to sneak the agreement past them. After around two hours of criticism, the council voted to quash the agenda item."

Ely City Council backs off SNWA agenda item (Ely Times article)

"Many had been led to believe the city had cut a deal with the SNWA behind closed doors. The handling of the issue reeked of conspiracy, although we suspect it had more to do with incompetence."

As We See It: City fumbled SNWA offer (Ely Times editorial)

"The Nevada Legislature is dominated by Clark County representatives. And if their view is that Ely attempted to stifle growth in Las Vegas, you can expect any bills concerning this area to get the same treatment in the future that they got during the 2005 session, when not a single one was able to get out of committee."

We're protecting Spring and Snake valleys; when do we protect Ely? (Kent Harper column, Ely Times)

BLM to reopen public comment on SNWA plan (Ely Times article)

SNWA wants to buy Warm Springs Ranch to help save Moapa dace (Ely Times article)

All the splendor that falls: Area's waterfalls have rich history ... and scenery (Nevada Appeal* article)

"Tamarisk, also known as salt cedar, is a thirsty plant. A large tamarisk is capable of sucking up hundreds of gallons of water per day, stealing moisture needed by native plants to survive. It also exudes salt into the soil in an additional attack on native plants that are necessary for a healthy wetlands area."

Officials doing battle with water-robbing tamarisk plant (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Humboldt County residents contract West Nile virus: Health officials say pair have mild form of disease (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Critics question Yucca Mountain upgrade plan: DOE plans to spend $100 million at site (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Amid the fallout of congressional corruption scandals in the last year, many lawmakers touted themselves as ethics and lobby reformers. They called for changes aimed at distancing Congress from special interests, but legislation is still pending. Meanwhile lawmakers continue to enjoy the company of lobbyists, often through unregulated lawmaker "caucuses," the Associated Press reported in a special investigation."

Caucuses fly under the radar: Congressmen use informal groups to skirt regulations on relationships with lobbyists (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

No telling what's classified: Government Accountability Office's audit concludes that the Bush administration has erred all too often when marking documents confidential, secret or top secret (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

Managing Sensitive Information (GAO website - pdf format)

Government Accountability Office Website

"GAO's prior work found numerous problems with DOD's processes for recording and reporting GWOT costs, including long-standing deficiencies in DOD's financial management systems and business processes, the use of estimates instead of actual cost data, and the lack of adequate supporting documentation. As a result, neither DOD nor the Congress reliably know how much the war is costing and how appropriated funds are being used or have historical data useful in considering future funding needs."

Global War on Terrorism: Observations on Funding, Costs, and Future Commitments (GAO website)

Last 9-11 Detainee Released From Lockup (Associated Press article)

"The First National Bank of Nevada and an affiliated, similarly named bank in Arizona have reported that federal regulators fined two officers for failing to disclose a banking violation and then misrepresenting facts."

Banks: Regulators fined two officers: Penalties involve messenger system branches (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Congress will continue debating "values" issues next week, focusing on a bill by Sen. John Ensign that would make it a federal crime to drive a teenager across state lines for an abortion without parental consent."

Senate revives abortion debate on rights of teens (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"While regulators were reluctant to give up oversight of cash reporting without putting up some struggle, Nevada's casino and slot industry, apparently, could care less about letting the IRS and Treasury Department take over."

Gaming: Regulation 6A to quietly fade into the sunset (In Business Las Vegas article)

Fallon's post office is last of 40 located in county since 1864 (David C. Henley column, Lahontan Valley News*)

NRS defines the top job (Reno Gazette-Journal editorial)

Primary elections for governor hotly contested (Nevada Appeal* article)

Bob Beers, candidate for Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Jim Gibson, candidate for Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Dina Titus, candidate for Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Jon Ralston presents an unreal gubernatorial debate between candidates Jim Gibbons, Lorraine Hunt and Bob Beers (Las Vegas Sun column)

Why Would Any Working Person Vote for John Ensign? (Nye blog)

Senator Ensign And The Bonds Of Fellowship (Myrna the Minx, Reno and Its Discontents)

Lonnie Hammargren, candidate for Lt. Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Bill Montgomery, candidate for Lt. Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Bob Stupak, candidate for Lt. Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Robert Unger, candidate for Lt. Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Sheila Ward, candidate for Lt. Governor (Nevada Appeal* article)

Mark DeStefano, candidate for Treasurer (Nevada Appeal* article)

Al Kramer, candidate for treasurer (Nevada Appeal* article)

Kate Marshall, candidate for Treasurer (Nevada Appeal* article)

Geoffrey VanderPal, candidate for Treasurer (Nevada Appeal* article)

John Calvert, candidate for Supreme Court (Nevada Appeal* article)

Thomas Christensen, candidate for Supreme Court (Nevada Appeal* article)

Nicholas Anthony Del Vecchio, candidate for Supreme Court (Nevada Appeal* article)

Nancy Saitta, candidate for Supreme Court (Nevada Appeal* article)

Barbara Smallwood, candidate for Assembly (Nevada Appeal* article)

Carson City Ward 3 candidates to host forum (Nevada Appeal* article)

District Attorney candidates on the issues: How David Roger and Frank Cremen see some of the issues in the district attorney's race (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Roger doesn't want to be anywhere else (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Defense lawyer eyes district attorney's job (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"Nevada was selected Saturday to host an early Democratic presidential caucus in mid-January 2008 between the influential Iowa and New Hampshire nominating events, greatly increasing the Silver State's clout in selecting the party's nominee."

Nevada gains election clout: Early Democratic presidential caucus coming in 2008 (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

Reid puts Nevada in '08 spotlight (Las Vegas Sun article)

Democrats recommend early caucus for Nevada (Associated Press article)

Still wish it was a primary... (Hugh Jackson column, Las Vegas Gleaner)

Nevada Gets Ready To Swing (Myrna the Minx, Reno and Its Discontents)

"As a government regulation of the "free market," the minimum wage is far more morally defensible than billion-dollar handouts to large corporations."

GEOFF SCHUMACHER: If 'free market' can flex for fat cats, why not for the little guy? (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

ERIN NEFF: Homeless debate brings out the inane (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

"During his time in office, Goodman has presided over a city government that has consciously failed in its obligation to provide adequate services to people whose unfortunate circumstances landed them in the streets. It is the lack of coordinated public services that is contributing to the growing numbers of homeless people in certain city parks, where a few kind people have been trying to preserve their health by providing food and water."

'The homeless' are human: Latest action out of Las Vegas City Hall encourages homelessness to be seen as pestilence (Las Vegas Sun editorial)

"'We were not going to cut thumbs off,' he said. 'That was to begin discussions on the issue.'"

WAR ON GRAFFITI: Goodman again gets medieval -- Mayor proposes putting taggers in stocks rather than lopping off their thumbs (Las Vegas Review-Journal* article)

"In a valley brimming with building and health code inspectors, where feeding the homeless is now a crime and having a messy yard can get you fined, no one in power can fix the rank-and-vile Royal."

JOHN L. SMITH: Royal making jesters of believers in Goodman's vision for downtown (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

"There is an important lesson in this for people who think that they can just show up in Las Vegas with money and take over the town. The scale of the poker game that is Las Vegas development is so great that no amount of outside money buys more than a seat at the table. And a seat alone is no promise of success. Investing on the Strip and its surroundings has taken a new direction."

Hal Rothman on how the old-fashioned approach to growth has reclaimed Las Vegas from a concept that was doomed from the start (Las Vegas Sun column)

A boost for downtown (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

Average Douglas home price declines $130K (Gardnerville Record-Courier* article)

Elko economy turns heads (Elko Free Press article)

Elko jobless rate zips up to 4.2 percent (Elko Free Press article)

Chamber, ECEDA merge committees (Elko Free Press article)

"The former pharmacy director at University of Nevada, Reno is being investigated on suspicion that he used a school credit card to purchase personal items that included Christmas presents and a trip to Disney World, according to recently unsealed court documents."

UNR official under investigation (Reno Gazette-Journal article)

Region gets support for green building (Nevada Appeal* article)

Tahoe Environmental Summit

Summit slated at Sand Harbor (North Lake Tahoe Bonanza article)

Privatization

"I see this very thing is a small group of people that are super wealthy trying to make our beaches private," said Brockway resident Janis Hills. "Sorry if your property values are not going up fast enough, but to block access that has been the right of generations, and to block it for your children and your grandchildren - it's plain unfair."

Making public beaches private? (North Lake Tahoe Bonanza article)

Through Federal Eyes

The feds sure have a vision for the Tahoe Basin (Leo Popoff column, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza)

Lyon OKs contract to manage effluent and test groundwater (Nevada Appeal* article)

Nevada Utilities

Power buyers sweat it out: Energy retailers heat up as the mercury rises (Las Vegas Sun article)

VIN SUPRYNOWICZ: More than 'mere territorial jurisdiction' (Las Vegas Review-Journal* column)

Washoe County to give $250,000 to V&T project (Nevada Appeal* article)

Insurance company accused of delaying schoolhouse rebuilding: Silver City residents angered by delays (Nevada Appeal* article)

Senator Ensign's Quest To Turn The United States Into A Theocracy: Child Protection Custody Act (Reno and Its Discontents blog)

What Is Net Neutrality Anyway? Ensign Doesn't Want You To Know (Reno and Its Discontents blog)