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Archive for Monday, August 25, 2008

Also from August 25

Births
Blog entries
Obituaries
On the street
Photos
Photo galleries
Olympic Closing Ceremony Fiddling and Picking Championships
Podcasts
Polls
What impact will the political conventions have on whom you will vote for in November?

Poll results

Response Percent
The conventions will play a small part
 
86%
I don’t plan on voting
 
7%
The conventions will play a large part
 
6%
Total 367
Videos

Lead stories

12:00 a.m.
Hayley Cherveny, of Kansas City, Mo., performs an aerial artistic display with the Thieves of Flight during last year's Lawrence Busker Festival at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 N.H. The Busker Festival is set to run through the upcoming weekend. Buskerfest hits downtown
August 24, 2008 in print edition on 1B
It’s not every day you get to see aerial acrobatics, living statues and breaths of fire - at least not in downtown Lawrence. After the success so far of the first-ever Busker Festival, event organizers and attendees want that to change. “It’s excellent,” said Jeff Joseph, owner of Jeff’s Curbside Recycling, after watching a comedic juggling performance at US Bank, 900 Mass. “The whole event is excellent. It’s things you don’t get to see often. Hopefully it becomes an annual event.”
6:00 a.m.
Strong passwords key to Internet security
August 25, 2008 in print edition on 1A
When Julie Fugett needs to log in to a Web site with a password, such as for her bank or credit card accounts, she hears music. For example - this isn’t one of her passwords - a fan of the band Journey might type in “Dsb!1hotTf”. It’s the first letter of each word in the chorus to “Don’t Stop Believin”” with a number and exclamation point included.
10:00 a.m.
Nine-month-old Cooper Keefer rests his head against his mother, Kristi, on Aug. 20, 2008, in their Lawrence home. Cooper already had undergone two open-heart surgeries to correct several heart problems including ventricular septal defect. Infant’s illness spawns charity
August 25, 2008 in print edition on 3A
Any parent will tell you that children change your life. Along with the joy there also can be difficult times. But the Keefer family never could have envisioned the struggles they would face with their son, Cooper. Kristi Keefer was just four months pregnant when her son was diagnosed with multiple heart defects.
2:00 p.m.
The passenger rail station is being cleaned and repaired by Depot Redux, Lawrence Moderns and other volunteers. Preservation group helps clean, restore train depot
August 25, 2008 in print edition on 3A
The mouse droppings have been removed and the windows washed. Cobwebs have been swept away and the parking lot cleared of years of sand buildup. On Sunday, the ongoing effort to restore the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Depot in east Lawrence to its original 1950s condition continued with the stripping and polishing of the building’s terrazzo floor.
10:00 p.m.
Health care advocates: Obama can fix system
August 25, 2008 in print edition on 1A
The problem that has defied a solution for decades and has left nearly 50 million Americans without heath coverage is on a trajectory to getting fixed, advocates for a public-run system said Monday. “The only question is how long will it take to get there,” U.S. Rep. John Conyers Jr., D-Mich., told about 100 people at a meeting of the Progressive Democrats of America. Standing in the way, he said, are “just a few filthy-rich corporatists who are making vulgar profits.”

All stories

Monday, August 25 weather at 10 p.m.
August 25, 2008
The forecast for Tuesday, August 26 calls for a high of 86 with a low around 57.
KidCast: Mikayla Herschell
August 25, 2008
The record high for August 25 is 109 in 1936. The record low is 49 in 1958.
Bill Self hits the links for boy scout charity
August 25, 2008
Bill Self’s golf-playing days are coming to an end. This weekend, he’ll be in Canada for the Jayhawk’s exhibition trip to Ottawa. But on Monday, however, he took part in the Boy Scouts of America Benefit Tournament at Lawrence Country Club. Unfortunately for coach, he got stuck playing with Sports Director Kevin Romary and Sports Editor Tom Keegan for part of the day…
Tonganoxie football team looks to rebound after dismal 2007 season
August 25, 2008
Following a 1-8 season in 2007, the Tonganoxie football team officially hits the field in less than two weeks. And unlike last year, this Fall they have a few tricks up their sleeve.
Health care advocates: Obama can fix system
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A1
The problem that has defied a solution for decades and has left nearly 50 million Americans without heath coverage is on a trajectory to getting fixed, advocates for a public-run system said Monday. “The only question is how long will it take to get there,” U.S. Rep. John Conyers Jr., D-Mich., told about 100 people at a meeting of the Progressive Democrats of America. Standing in the way, he said, are “just a few filthy-rich corporatists who are making vulgar profits.”
Sunflowers blooming in local fields
Local farmer’s field shines with yellow flowers
August 25, 2008
Grinter Farms boasts over 1 million sunflowers in 40 acres.
Walgreens axed from city commission agenda
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
At their meeting Tuesday night, city commissioners won’t hear plans for a new Walgreens drug store at the southwest corner of Clinton Parkway and Crossgate Drive.
Kansas City man sentenced in former Lawrence resident’s murder
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A4
A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced Monday to serve 25 years in prison for the robbery and murder of a former Lawrence man in 2007.
Kansas Democrats’ communications director works to find candidates who ‘work across the aisle’
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A8
When Jenny Davidson was younger, she dressed up like H. Ross Perot to go trick-or-treating. “I had charts to show the distribution of my candy,” Davidson said. “None of my classmates knew who the heck I was.” Davidson, of Lawrence, grew up in Russell, boyhood home of former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole, a nationally known Republican.
Haskell to kick off community exercise program
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
Haskell Indian Nations University will launch a community exercise program at 6 p.m. Tuesday Aug. 26 at Haskell Stadium.
Lawrence resident accidentally injures himself with pistol
August 25, 2008
A 33-year-old man accidentally shot himself in the lower torso Saturday night, while putting a pistol in his waistband, Lawrence police said.
Fire investigator testifes June 10 mobile home fire was started with gasoline
Flames began in the bedroom, spread through trailer
11:23 a.m., August 25, 2008 Updated 12:00 a.m. in print edition on A3
A Lawrence man was ordered Monday to stand trial after a fire investigator testified that gasoline was detected at the corner of a queen-size bed in a June 10 fire at a southeastern Lawrence trailer home.
KU football releases depth chart
Patterson named punt returner; still no decision on kicker
11:20 a.m., August 25, 2008 Updated 01:11 p.m. in print edition on B1
ith the release of the Kansas University football team’s Week 1 depth chart Monday morning, some of the Jayhawks’ biggest positional questions were answered. And some weren’t.
Basehor teen injured after fall from vehicle
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A4
A teenage girl remained in critical condition Monday at an area hospital after falling out of a vehicle Saturday night south of Basehor.
People in the news
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B6
¢ Madonna kicks off ‘Sticky and Sweet’ tour¢ Biden’s memoir now a best seller
Temp job can boost options
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
Q: I accepted a job with a CPA firm and the environment was unbearable; plus, they changed the waiting period on my medical benefits from 30 to 60 days, after I started. I resigned after three months, relocated, and now I’m looking for employment. What is the best way to job search? I have registered with a temp agency but want to remain available to search for full time. - Marian
Panel reflects on Iraq transition
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
The U.S. Army is taking a close look at the decisions made in planning and implementing the war in Iraq and what happened during the nation-building effort that followed. That process and its discoveries are outlined in a recent book, “On Point II, Transition to the New Campaign,” which was discussed Sunday at Kansas University’s Dole Institute of Politics.
Thunder’ reigns with $16.1M
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B6
The action comedy “Tropic Thunder” weathered a rush of new movies to remain No. 1 for a second consecutive weekend with $16.1 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Mixed legacy likely for Beijing games
August 25, 2008 in print edition on C8
China completed its stint as Olympic host Sunday with a superstar-studded closing ceremony that capped a 16-day pageant of state-of-the-art logistics and astounding athletic feats, set out for a curious world. The games did little, though, to erase concerns about the emerging superpower’s approach to human rights.
Bomber kills at least 25 west of capital
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
A suicide bomber blew himself up Sunday in the midst of a celebration to welcome home an Iraqi detainee released from U.S. custody, killing at least 25 people, Iraqi officials said.
Homes are evacuated in Florida after Fay passes
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A8
Flooding left behind by Tropical Storm Fay forced residents in parts of northern Florida out of their homes Sunday, while the storm’s remnants were forecast to dump several inches of rain on at least four other states.
ABWA invites chamber vice president to speak
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
Lawrence Express Network, American Business Women’s Association, will have its August luncheon meeting at 11:30 a.m. Thursday at Alvamar Country Club, 1809 Crossgate Drive.
Rare ferrets apparently thriving in western Kansas
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B8
Although it’s hard to get an exact number, some of the 24 rare black-footed ferrets reintroduced to western Kansas last December have survived and reproduced.
Guard a wily veteran
Morningstar ‘focused’ heading into season
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B1
Brady Morningstar, who turns 23 on Jan. 23, is older than your average college sophomore. “They always joke to me I’m going to graduate when I’m 27,” Morningstar, Kansas University’s third-year soph basketball shooting guard, said with a laugh, referring to his Jayhawk teammates. “I’ve always felt like an older guy on the team,” he added, asked about his status as a team veteran.
National League Roundup: Extra-inning home runs lift Astros
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B4
Brad Ausmus led off the 10th inning with his second homer of the season, Darin Erstad connected for his third homer three batters later, and Houston rallied against New York’s shaky bullpen.
Mother to Mother has several needs to fill
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A4
Mother to Mother is looking for volunteer mothers to be paired with volunteers who provide companionship and advice. Mothers at all parenting stages and ages are welcome.
Obama energy, tax ideas miss reality
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A9
Barack Obama has made his economic thinking excruciatingly clear, so it also is clear that his running mate should have been not Joe Biden, but Rumpelstiltskin. He spun straw into gold, a skill an Obama administration will need in order to fulfill its fairy-tale promises.
Top fiddlers, pickers named
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A4
The following winners were announced in the Kansas State Fiddling and Picking Championships held Sunday in South Park.
Pesticide risks vary for types of produce
August 25, 2008 in print edition on C1
Buying organic is a good way to cut your exposure to potentially harmful pesticides, but it can get expensive. So how can you save on organics? According to the September issue of ShopSmart magazine, one way to save is to limit organic purchases to fruits and veggies that have the most dangerous pesticide residues when grown conventionally.
Conventions still offer political showcase
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A9
At my first political convention, Adlai Stevenson unexpectedly left his vice-presidential choice to the delegates. It led to an exciting two-ballot battle but saddled him with a running mate he didn’t much like. In the 1960s and 1970s, I covered three conventions at which uncertainty about the nominee sparked several tense days of maneuvering.
Band to reunite for benefit show
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
A former 1980s Hutchinson-based rock band is reuniting next month to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Douglas County.
Biding his time
Murphy waiting his turn
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B1
The path is one often traveled by former high school football stars making the transition to big-time college football: Rembrandt one day, house-painter the next. Ryan Murphy lit up Friday nights in a way no other had before or since for Free State High. See Ryan pass. See Ryan run. See Ryan pick off a pass and take it to the house. See Ryan pin a vicious hit on a receiver, popping the ball loose.
Old Home Town - 40 years ago
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A9
The city staff was near to presenting the City Commission a curfew law designed to lessen juvenile misbehavior problems. Officials of Montgomery Ward in Kansas city announced plans to build a new retail store in Lawrence on a six-acre tract south of 23rd and Ousdahl Road, with about 45,000 square feet of floor space. Opening was set for March of 1969.
US disappointed competition didn’t open China more
August 25, 2008 in print edition on C8
The United States said Sunday it was disappointed the Olympics had not brought more “openness and tolerance” in China as the games ended and eight American activists were deported during the closing ceremonies.
Firm: Unmanned flight record was broken
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
An ultra-lightweight plane built from carbon fiber and powered using paper-thin solar panels has broken the world record for longest-lasting unmanned flight, its manufacturer claimed Sunday.
PEC names new senior associate
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
Professional Engineering Consultants, 616 Vt., recently announced the promotion of Jarrod E. Mann from associate to senior associate.
NBC giddy at ratings for Beijing Olympics
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
NBC says the Beijing Olympics proved so captivating that millions of Americans now need to catch up on some sleep.
Strong passwords key to Internet security
Experts offer advice for creating complex codes that are easy to recall
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A1
When Julie Fugett needs to log in to a Web site with a password, such as for her bank or credit card accounts, she hears music. For example - this isn’t one of her passwords - a fan of the band Journey might type in “Dsb!1hotTf”. It’s the first letter of each word in the chorus to “Don’t Stop Believin”” with a number and exclamation point included.
Royals snap losing streak
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B3
Brandon Duckworth had an easy time keeping emotions in check during his first major-league appearance in almost a year. His body was a different story.
City audit spotlights areas of concern
High debt burden, low asset totals seen as troublesome
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A1
Financially, the city of Lawrence is in the same boat as many Americans: It needs to watch its rising debt levels and be more diligent in how it tracks some of its spending. Those were the main conclusions in a new report put together by the city’s recently hired performance auditor, who found the city’s financial condition was still generally good but had worsened in the past five years.
American League Roundup: K-Rod notches save No. 50
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B4
Francisco Rodriguez earned his 50th save, and the Los Angeles Angels got RBI triples from Vladimir Guerrero and Gary Matthews Jr. in the eighth inning to rally past the Twins.
Money Tip: Preparing your home for a sale
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
Here are four ways to spruce up your home for a sale, from Consumer Reports:
Terrific taste for summer parties
August 25, 2008 in print edition on C1
Panzanella - Heat oil in a large saute pan. Add bread and salt; cook over low to medium heat, tossing frequently, for 10minutes, or until nicely browned. Add more oil as needed. For the vinaigrette, whisk all the ingredients together.
Mind, body & spirit: Hospital chaplain ensures holistic care for patients
August 25, 2008 in print edition on C1
Clowning around during the 1996 Olympics resulted in the Rev. Angela Lowe’s photograph being displayed in a Georgia police station. When Lawrence Memorial hospital’s first full-time chaplain worked as a church consultant in Arkansas, she led clowning workshops for youth leaders.
Police, bars prepare for influx of underage drinkers
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A5
About 250 local workers received a refresher course Sunday on the rules and regulations surrounding the sale of alcohol. Bartenders, restaurant servers, liquor store employees and others participated in an alcohol retailers workshop at Abe & Jake’s Landing, 8 E. Sixth St.
Hochevar done for season
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B2
Royals pitcher Luke Hochevar is out for the season because of a bruised right rib cage.
Keegan: Bowen natural selection
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B1
He played at Lawrence High and at Kansas University. His personality and local roots make him a popular figure in town. Everybody likes Clint Bowen. And none of that has anything to do with why KU football head coach Mark Mangino named Bowen to fill Bill Young’s Bob Lanier-sized shoes. Mangino gave Bowen the promotion for selfish reasons. He did it because he thinks he’s the best man to lead his defense. He did it because he believes Bowen knows his stuff.
Tropical Storm Julio hits Baja peninsula
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
Tropical Storm Julio drenched the resort-studded southern Baja California peninsula with heavy rains Sunday as authorities evacuated more than 2,500 families living along riverbeds near the coast.
Obama hopes convention offers appeal to middle-class voters
McCain seeks to stoke discontent among Clinton supporters
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A7
On the eve of the Democratic National Convention, Barack Obama said Sunday he hoped a week of political speechmaking would persuade reluctant middle-class voters to swing behind his bid for the White House, while Republicans sought to stir discontent among Hillary Rodham Clinton’s supporters.
Gas nationally drops 15 cents in 2 weeks
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
A national survey shows gas prices have dropped 15 cents a gallon in the last two weeks.
Kansas Democrats sense place in history
Convention that will nominate first black candidate for president opens today
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A1
Now that the Olympics have ended, let the games begin. Kansas Democrats were among the thousands of party delegates, journalists and activists who gathered Sunday on the eve of what will be a historic Democratic National Convention.
Bowling alley to reopen after cleanup from fire
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
Royal Crest Lanes, 933 Iowa, Lawrence, plans to reopen Friday after successful cleanup of a fire that occurred Aug. 4 in the rear of the building.
Association honors county with award
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
Debbie Sparkes, a Douglas County budget analyst, has helped the county earn an award from the Government Finance Officers Association.
Commentary: Gold won with chemistry, not egoism
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B2
The long howl bellowed through the bowels of National Indoor Stadium. Was it man? Beast? Pain or exaltation?
Infant’s illness spawns charity
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
Any parent will tell you that children change your life. Along with the joy there also can be difficult times. But the Keefer family never could have envisioned the struggles they would face with their son, Cooper. Kristi Keefer was just four months pregnant when her son was diagnosed with multiple heart defects.
Tornado repairs to continue at KSU
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
Although repair work continues across campus, classes will open on schedule Monday at Kansas State University.
On the record
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A4
Fire caused extensive damage to an unoccupied residence at 1321 E. 18th St. on Sunday night, but no injuries were reported, according to Lawrence-Douglas County Fire & Medical.
Research aims to put tongues to work helping the disabled
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B7
The tireless tongue already controls taste and speech, helps kiss and swallow, and fights germs. Now scientists hope to add one more ability to the mouthy muscle, and turn it into a computer control pad.
Old Home Town - 100 years ago
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A9
From the Lawrence Daily World of Aug. 25, 1908: The board of education held a special meeting last night to reduce the tax levy from 5.2 mills to 4.83. The levy had been formed in June meetings before final accountings could be made. The 5.2 mills was higher than state law allows and had to be reduced. “
Singh tops Garcia in wild playoff
Gopher’s help not enough for Spaniard in sudden death
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B2
Vijay Singh ended up beating Sergio Garcia on a gopher hole. Yes, a gopher. Or maybe a mole.
Preservation group helps clean, restore train depot
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
The mouse droppings have been removed and the windows washed. Cobwebs have been swept away and the parking lot cleared of years of sand buildup. On Sunday, the ongoing effort to restore the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Depot in east Lawrence to its original 1950s condition continued with the stripping and polishing of the building’s terrazzo floor.
Almanac predicts cold winter ahead
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
People worried about the high cost of keeping warm this winter will draw little comfort from the Farmers’ Almanac, which predicts below-average temperatures for most of the U.S.
US deaths reach 101 for the year in Afghanistan
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A10
Taliban insurgents once derided as a ragtag rabble unable to match U.S. troops have transformed into a fighting force - one advanced enough to mount massive conventional attacks and claim American lives at a record pace.
Horoscopes
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B6
This year, you might discover that you could be multifaceted or more changeable than you realize. Your public presentation could be more important than you realize. If you are attached, the two of you might need to do more together.
Pump patrol
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A3
The Journal-World found gas prices as low as $3.54 at several locations.
Toughest Jobs’ deserves pink slip for poor execution
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B6
Television success breeds imitation, glut and overexposure. It’s been that way since the medium was overrun with Westerns back in the “Death Valley Days” of the 1950s. But it’s rare and sad to see creative producers desecrate their own successful brand.
Redeem Team’ adds to United States’ haul
August 25, 2008 in print edition on B1
What fencer Mariel Zagunis started, Dwyane Wade and the “Redeem Team” finished.
US warship with aid arrives
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A10
A U.S. Navy destroyer loaded with humanitarian aid reached Georgia’s Black Sea port of Batumi on Sunday, bringing baby food, bottled water and a message of support for an embattled ally.
US grain exports snagged by infrastructure delays
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A2
Across the country, from grain elevator to grain elevator, golden wheat and corn are piled in towering mounds, waiting for a rail car to haul them to market.
City Commission agenda: Walgreens proposal under scrutiny
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A5
City commissioners will consider a pair of issues related to a proposed Walgreens drug store at the southwest corner of Crossgate Drive and Clinton Parkway.
The Iraq sieve
Why are we paying so many bills that the Iraqi government should be taking care of?
August 25, 2008 in print edition on A9
With today’s jam-packed news and analysis offerings about international affairs and American involvement overseas, a number of important items slip through the cracks and fail to get nearly the attention they deserve.The Vindicator of Youngstown, Ohio, latched onto one of these “missing links” and amplified it, justifiably.