Mon 30-JAN-2012 Early A.M. News Script
-------- The 5:00 News Scripts Follow ------------
1} ROOSTER_SOT
Good morning it's 5:00 -- I'm Keagan Harsha. And I'm Gary Sadowsky. Well it is monday -- and that means we begin another work week with a visit from the rooster.
2} WX_INTRO
weather intro
3} POTDISPENSARY11_INTRO
Vermont's Department of Public safety has announced guidelines for the state's first medical marijuana dispensaries. Kyle Midura spoke with patients, advocates and those who hope to run a facility.
4} POTDISPENSARY11_PKG
(nat pop lighter) State legislators say Vermont wouldn't have a medical marijuana law if it wasn't for Manchester Resident Mark Tucci. Eight years after the initial legislation passed, new rules are in place for businesses to sell marijuana to patients like him. ((14:12:03 - 14:12:11 - Tucci they did a real good job they went from the perspective of what's best for the patients first, second how do we avoid diversion.)) The four-hundred plus Vermont patients currently grow their own medicine or have others do it for them, but as many as four distribution centers are expected to be operational by the end of the year. (( 14:17:59, - 18:06 - Tucci will you stop growing your own marijuana and use a dispensary... I'm going to say, right off, no)) But according to a recent survey, 90% of patients say they'd make the switch. That's because many lack the expertise and the physical capability to grow medicinal cannabis. ((11:26:26 - Shayne Lynn we will be having a consultant to help grow )) Burlington resident Shayne Lynn isn't a patient, but says he's already secured a location for his future dispensary. He'll have to apply to the state for consideration, and pay 30-thousand dollars a year for the right to operate. That's on top of startup costs expected to eclipse 150-thousand dollars. ((11:23:26 - Lynn we're going to have to balance offering affordable medicinal cannabis with running a nonprofit business. 11:23:35)) The new rules will mandate background checks, significant video security, and one-at-a-time appointment-only service at the dispensaries. Patient advocates say THAT - along with a state-wide 1,000 patient limit - should prevent federal raids seen in other states. ((14:43:20 Virginia Renfrew - patient advocate I think that hopefully for the federal government when they look at Vermont they look at Vermont is being a model 14:43:25)) Patients and advocates they'd like the state to make product testing available, a delivery system, and an alternative method of receiving medicine for those who grow their own but suffer crop loss. But those we spoke to, say that can wait. KM, CH3, BTV.
5} POTDISPENSARY11_TAG
Cities and towns will also have to approve any proposed dispensary.
6} ROBBERY_WHITE
A brattleboro convenience store was robbed this weekend -- for the second time in two weeks. According to police -- someone walked into the Mobil station on Canal Street Saturday and handed the clerk a note demanding cash. The clerk complied -- and the robber took off. The thief is described as a white man-- about 5 feet ten inches tall with a stocky build. He matches the description of a man who robbed the same store on January 14th.
7} CRASH_VO
Students at Champlain Valley Union High School will take time today -- to remember a classmate killed in a tragic car accident. 16 year old Zeke Kassel died Friday morning on his way to school when the car he was in went off the road and hit a tree. The seventeen year old driver and Kassel's 15 year old sister were not injured in the accident. Champlain Valley Union High school stayed open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Saturday to help students and staff deal with the tragedy. Several moments of silence are planned for this morning and the school will be offering additional guidance services as needed.
8} UPDATE_SOTVO
((Sean McMannon/CVU Principal: We try to balance routine with the idea that there's a range of emotions that students and staff need to go through and we give the space to them to some degree 08:16:13-08:16:24)) Police are still investigating the accident, they say they do NOT believe speed was a factor.
9} MENDONTHUGS_WHITE
Two Mendon teenagers are facing a string of charges -- after police say they vandalized several school busses. 16 year old Timothy Hughes and 16 year old Ethan Snitker allegedly broke into a bus at Barstow Memorial School in Chittenden -- stole several fire extinguishers -- and then urinated on the seats. Police also believe the pair broke into the school -- although no damage was found.
10} CHILDPORN_WHITE
An elementary school teacher in bennington is accused of possessing child porn. John Dockum has taught fifth grade at monument elementary school since 2009. The 34 year old has now been placed on paid administrative leave -- after police say a family member found images of naked young girls on his school computer. Police do not believe any local children were victimized. Dockum faces up to two years in prison if convicted.
11} FATALFIRE_MAP
A cigarette is being blamed for starting a fire that killed a senior citizen from Post Mills. Fire crews were called to the apartment building on Route 113 Friday evening for a report of smoke in the building. When firefighters arrived on scene-- they found the body of 69-year-old Clifford Lyons in one of the apartments. Police say he died from apparent smoke inhalation-- however an autopsy is being conducted. Fire investigators say the small fire started after a lit cigarette caught an oxygen tube on fire.
12} TURBINEFIRE6_VO
Authorities are investigating what caused a wind turbine to catch fire in Northern New York. It happened Saturday night in Altona. Officials say people driving by the windfarm noticed the fire in one of the 400 foot turbines. Noble Environmental -- the owner of the windfarm -- says no one was injured. The cause of the fire is not known. Two years ago a turbine at the same park came crashing down when the blades spun out-of-control in high winds. An investigation in that case uncovered a wiring problem that prevented the turbine from safely shutting down. Wind speed at the time of the fire was reportedly around 25 miles per hour.
13} LUDLOWAM_LVSD
like many towns -- Ludlow is facing a long to do list in the wake of irene, but a big name in baseball is stepping up to the plate to make that list just a little bit shorter. Molly Smith joins us in the studio -- with more on the story. well Keagan -- he is a connecticut native who grew up spending his winters on the slopes at Okemo -- and when he got word of the fall out at the local ball fields Major League Pitcher Carl Pavano used his connections to help the kids.
14} LUDLOWAM_PKG
((nats of catch)) Most major leaguers head south in the off season, but not Carl Pavano. ((more nats)) He has a thing for the snow and Okemo -- so he has turned to the ludlow rec center for his winter workouts. ((Carl Pavano: thanks to howie he lets me use some of the facilities. The gyms and the basketball courts which enables me to throw and keep my training going. It's a perfect fit.)) Rec director Howie Paul -- says he is happy to open the facilities to Pavano. But a few months ago -- he had to ask for a favor of his own. Tropical storm Irene took out the ludlow little league's home turf -- washing away 10s of thousands of dollars worth of equipment down stream. After seeing the extent of the damage -- Paul said he knew someone who could help. ((Carl Pavano: I made a couple phone calls to some mlb players association reps they told me what kind of steps I can take to help. Gave me some numbers to foundations to call.)) ((molly smith the ludlow little leaguers may have no idea where charlies pizza is or where darien fd is based out of but they do know they are thankful to have these jerseys to play in this season thanks to a very special donation.)) ((howie paul: within a week they called back and said we are going to give you everything you need.)) a philadelphia based organization called "pitching in for baseball" came to the rescue -- sending these two boxes full of brand new baseballs, helmets, uniforms, gloves, pitching machines -- any and everything else baseball. Enough gear to outfit 12 teams. ((howie paul: like xmas times 10. We had a big event when the equipment came in. Carl came down, david rhodes from pitch in for baseball came up from Philadelphia. To see the smile on the kids faces and how happy and excited they were that is what this is all about. All about the kids.)) During this time of rebuilding -- so many people need help, but Pavano said he chose a group he knew would be last on the list. ((Carl Pavano: howie had said that most likely these would be things that would be left last to be picked up because of the budgets in vt and the shortfalls and stuff like that. I took it upon myself to put it on the front burner because I have the ability to do that.)) ((howie paul: With all the chaos going on that is where they would want to go and when it's not there it makes things tough)) Pavano says it doesn't matter if you are gearing up for spring training in the major leagues-- or just little leagues -- new gear always helps when it comes to the win column. ((Carl Pavano: you always feel like you are that much better when the stuff is new.)) giving a whole new meaning to the idea of a rebuilding year.
15} LUDLOWAM_TAG
the rec fields -- you just saw are still in rough shape, insurance is expected to cover some of the cost, but Paul says 80% of the funding for this work will have to come from donations. -- Keagan?
16} NICKELODEON_VO
The University of Vermont will have an animated graduation speaker this year. The president of the Nickelodeon television network-- Cyma Zarghami-- will be the commencement speaker at this year's graduation ceremonies. Zarghami joined Nickelodeon after leaving the University of Vermont in 1985. She rose through the ranks before being named president in 2006. Zarghami now oversees creative and business operations for Viacom's-- Nickelodeon Group. Along with the commencement speech-- she will also receive an honorary degree from the university.
17} WINTER6_VO
Ice caught Fire for the 16th straight year in Montpelier Sunday. Kids, adults, animals, and everything in between enjoyed the festivities at the North Branch Nature Center. The annual *ice on fire* event featured a parade, igloos, winter games, and a bonfire. Organizers say it gets better every year.
18} FESTIVAL6_SOTVO
((15:34:30Nancy Chickering - organizer it's just a wonderful event to celebrate the warmth of community and depth of winter)) The event is an all-volunteer effort, with a five dollar admission fee to cover costs. Hot cider, food, and the bonfire helped keep everyone warm.
19} WEATHER_GREEN
20} FORECAST
Monday: Snow showers ending. Clearing skies. High 23/30. Wind NW 10-15 mph Monday Night: Increasing clouds. Chance of snow showers, mainly after midnight. Low 13/20. Wind Light. Tuesday: Cloudy skies. Light snow showers likely. High 30/37. Wind Light. Wednesday: Chance of rain showers, freezing rain. High 35/45. Thursday: Partly sunny. High 33/40. Friday: Chance of snow showers. High 27/34.
21} CAMPAIGNAM_INTRO
Republican frontrunners Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney are battling it out for a final day in Florida before tomorrow's primary. Polls show Romney with a lead. Susan McGinnis has the latest from the campaign trail.
22} CAMPAIGNAM_PKG
(nats: Romney) Mitt Romney's trying to pump up Florida voters ahead of Tuesday's critical primary. (SOT: Mitt Romney/R-Candidate for President) "GET OUT AND VOTE, VOTE! VOTE ON TUESDAY!!!" At a packed rally in Pompano Beach last night, he kept up his attacks on rival.... Newt Gingrich. (SOT: Mitt Romney/R-Candidate for President) "HIS RECORD WAS ONE OF FAILED LEADERSHIP. WE DON'T NEED SOMEONE WHO CAN SPEAK WELL PERHAPS, OR WHO CAN SAY THE THINGS YOU AGREE WITH, BUT DOES NOT HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING AN EFFECTIVE LEADER." Romney leads the GOP pack in Florida but Gingrich insists the race is actually closer than polls show. (nats: shakes hands) The former House Speaker greeted voters outside a Baptist church Sunday.... and said he's willing to keep up his fight well past Tuesday. (SOT: Newt Gingrich/R-Candidate for President) "THE CLEARER WE ARE ABOUT A PRO-ABORTION, PRO-GUN CONTROL, PRO-TAX INCREASE MASSACHUSETTS MODERATE, THE LESS LIKELY IT IS THAT HE'S GONNA WIN THE MAJORITY ANYWAY." (STANDUP: Susan McGinnis/CBS News/Tampa, FL) AS GINGRICH AND ROMNEY BATTLE IT OUT FOR FIRST PLACE HERE IN FLORIDA.... THE OTHER CONTENDERS ARE ALREADY LOOKING AHEAD TO THE NEXT BIG CONTESTS. (nats: Santorum) Rick Santorum is expected to campaign in Missouri and Minnesota today. The former Pennsylvania senator canceled stops in Florida Sunday to be with his 3-year-old daughter who was hospitalized with pneumonia. His OLDEST daughter - Elizabeth - stood in his place. (SOT: Elizabeth Santorum/Rick Santorum's Daughter) "I KNOW HE'S MISSING TALKING TO YOU, BUT THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING OUT. IT'S JUST SO ENCOURAGING TO SEE ALL OF YOU HERE." As for Texas Congressman Ron Paul ... he's bypassing Florida altogether... focusing instead on caucus states like Nevada. Susan McGinnis, CBS News, Tampa, Florida.
23} MISSINGAM_VO
Police are now saying blood found in the home of a missing toddler in maine -- belongs to the little girl. Ayla reynolds went missing from her home in Waterville just over a month ago ... Police say the evidence was found early in the investigation -- but they are not saying where in the house the blood was found, or how much of it was left behind. Authorities believe the one year old was abducted -- but no suspects have been named in the case.
24} NHUNIONS6_VO
Republican lawmakers in New Hampshire are trying to reduce the bargaining power of unions. Bills introduced in Concord include a proposal to repeal collective bargaining rights and a return to the so-called right-to-work bill that was vetoed last session. Supporters say the measures would provide more employee freedom and negotiating power. Unions say collective bargaining ensures fair wages and a stable work force. Republicans hold a majority in both houses of the legislature in the Granite State.
25} IMMIGRANTS_WHITE
Illegal immigrants in New Hampshire could see their tuition costs RISE at the state's public colleges. Lawmakers vote Wednesday on a bill requiring students to prove they are LEGAL residents of the United States to receive in-state tuition rates. Opponents argue any child who grew up in New Hampshire and graduated from its schools should be afforded in-state tuition.
26} BOOTSAM_VO
A certain boot brands is getting the boot at a school in pennsylvania. Starting today -- students at Pottstown Middle school are prohibited from wearing Uggs in class. The popular boots themselves aren't actually the problem. School officials say students are hiding cell phones in the them -- and cell phones are also banned in class. The district says it may reconsider the boot ban -- if the cellphone problems improve.
27} DISCGOLF_INTRO
It's a sport that can be played out in the elements. And it can also be used to do some good. Susie Steimle introduces us to the sport of disc golfing.
28} DISCGOLF_PKG
It's called the ice bowl. ((Murray Junod/Disc-Golfer: The slogan is no wimps no whiners 08:05:42-08:05:44)) ((Peter Hess/Tournament Organizer: We've played with tee time below zero in two feet of snow 07:56:00-07:56:06)) It's a nationwide disc-golf tournament that raises money for food shelves around the country. The Green Mountain Disc-Golf Club has been participating in the Ice bowl for six years now. ((Susie Steimle/Waterbury Center: In its 1st year only raised 500 dollars 6 years later they are expecting to raise more than 6,000. All proceeds go to the local food shelf 08:04:49-08:04:59)) ((Peter Hess/Tournament Organizer: This year all money is going to Waterbury area food shelf, we're excited to support them as a member of the community and a community that has supported the course for quite some time 07:53:09-07:53:20)) Still not sure what this sport is we're talking about? It's essentially what it sounds like, golf played with a disc, or small frisbee. The object is to throw the disc into a metal basket several yards away. Just like with golf, a stroke, or point is added to each turn until the disc lands in the basket. The goal is to have the lowest score. ((Murray Junod/Disc Golfer: It originally started back in the early mid seventies but in the past 5,6 years the sport has really boomed and courses have just multiplied all over the place 08:06:38-08:06:49)) Saturday players were asked to contribute a twenty dollar donation to the food shelf, last year the club came in tenth of 233 teams in the nation. They're hoping to surpass that number this time around. ((Peter Hess/Tournament Organizer: I can tell you from the folks that showed up today are averaging more than 50 per person as far as the donation they've been making 07:57:15-07:57:24)) A golf game that can be played any time of the year -- at the ice bowl they say the worse the weather the more proud they are to play. Susie Steimle channel three news, Waterbury Center.
29} NEWSVAULT_TECH
Vermont is a leader in many efforts -- but on this day in 1986 the state became the last in the northeast to up the drinking age from 18-21
30} VAULT_1
It was a hot debate on the senate floor -- 26 years ago today. The effort to up the drinking age. the age limit for consumption was listed at 21 for most states following the repeal of prohibition in the 1930's , but then many states lowered the age to 18. In the late 70's states started to change the law again, bringing the legal drinking age back up to 21 in part to combat drunk driving fatalities -- and on this day Vermont joined the pack, but was one of the last states to do so.
31} VAULT_2
(( the issue passes on a 16-14 vote))
32} WX_CHAT_TECH
33} HEALTHWATCH_GREEN
You may use a booster seat when you're driving your child around... But do you require one when your child is being driven by someone else? A new study says many parents don't. Ines Ferre has more in our healthwatch.
34} HEALTHWATCH_PKG
-British researchers say people with a rare genetic mutation that effects the body clock hormone melatonin - are much more likely to develop the disease. Shift workers have a higher risk of type two diabetes. And when someone's sleep is disrupted for just a few days they tend to start developing symptoms. -Most parents use booster seats in their own car - but a new study finds 30 percent of them don't require one when their child is part of a carpool. Doctors writing in the journal pediatrics say that decision could be dangerous because adult seat belts do not work as well on small children. Most state laws require booster seats until kids are 8 years old. -Overweight people are more likely to have back pain and spine problems. Researchers in Hong Kong found obese people are at a higher risk of developing damage in their lumbar discs. Scientists say weight is only part of the reason why. They believe chronic inflammation from the fat cells may play a role in disc degeneration.
35} HEADLINES_FONT
Still to come as the news continues this morning.... Remembering a life cut short -- as students in hinesburg return to class following the death of a classmate. // residents of two vermont towns get set for a big vote over whether a former asbestos mine should be declared a superfund site.// plus -- vermonter lawmakers consider a fishy proposal at the statehouse.
36} QUICK_WX_DESK
But before we get to those stories -- let's take a quick look at how the weather is shaping up this morning.
37} MARIJUANA7X_VO
Vermont Public safety officials have announced guidelines for the state's first medical marijuana dispensaries. As many as four distribution centers are expected to be operational by the end of the year to serve the 400 plus patients on the state registry. The new rules will mandate background checks, significant video security, and one-at-a-time appointments. Burlington resident Shayne Lynch says he's already secured a location for his future dispensary. He'll have to apply and pay 30-thousand dollars a year for the right to operate.
38} DISPENSARY7X_SOTVO
((11:23:26 we're going to have to balance offering affordable medicinal cannabis with running a nonprofit business. 11:23:35)) ((14:43:20 I think that hopefully for the federal government when they look at Vermont they look at Vermont is being a model 14:43:25)) Medical Marijuana is still lllegal under federal law. But Patient advocates say that a state-wide 1,000 patient limit in Vermont will prevent federal raids seen in other states.
39} NYGUARD6_VO
18-hundred National Guard soldiers in New York are beginning a new mission. The soldiers-- from the 27th Brigade Combat Team-- are departing today for Camp Shelby, Mississippi for two months of training. Then, they will to head to the Middle East for a 12-month deployment in Kuwait. Scores of family members met this weekend at the National Guard Armory Morrisonville to see off their citizen soldiers. Similar ceremonies took place across the state.
40} TURBINETOPS_VO
Authorities are investigating what caused a wind turbine to catch fire in Northern New York. It happened Saturday night in Altona. Officials say people driving by the windfarm noticed the fire in one of the 400 foot turbines. Noble Environmental -- the owner of the windfarm -- says no one was injured. The cause of the fire is not known. Two years ago a turbine at the same park came crashing down when the blades spun out-of-control in high winds. An investigation in that case uncovered a wiring problem that prevented the turbine from safely shutting down. Wind speed at the time of the fire was reportedly around 25 miles per hour.
41} CRASHUPDATE6_INTRO
When students at Champlain Valley Union High School head to school today, they will be without one of their own. 16-year-old Zeke Kassel (cass-el) died in a car accident Friday morning and the school is trying to cope with that loss. Susie Steimle spoke CVU's principal about the tragedy.
42} CRASHUPDATE6_PKG
((Sean McMannon/CVU Principal: His loss leaves a tremendous hole in our community that we'll move through together and draw strength from each other 08:13:52-08:13:58)) Champlain Valley Union High School Principal Sean McMannon says Zeke Kassel will be remembered as a dedicated student, son and friend. ((Sean McMannon/CVU Principal: This wonderful young man who people loved, he was fun to be around and its hard for people to comprehend and get their brain around such a significant loss 08:15:22-08:15:36)) 16 year old Zeke Kassel died in a car accident on Shelburne falls road on his way to school Friday. Police are still investigating the accident -- but they do not believe speed was a factor. Come Monday the halls of Champlain Valley Union High School will hold a host of emotions from students and staff. It's McMannon's job to balance grief and guidance. ((Sean McMannon/CVU Principal: We try to balance routine with the idea that there's a range of emotions that students and staff need to go through and we give the space to them to some degree 08:16:13-08:16:24)) For some it will be an empty seat in the classroom, others the loss of a best friend -- either way its certain to be difficult as the community mourns the loss of a young life. Susie Steimle channel three news, Shelburne.
43} CRASHUPDATE6_TAG
The 17-year-old driver of the vehicle and the driver's 15-year-old sister were uninjured in the accident.
44} SUPERFUNDVOTE6_VO
Voters in the towns of Lowell and Eden will weigh-in this Town Meeting Day on whether to have a former ASBESTOS mine declared a federal Superfund site. Cleanup of the abandoned mine has been stalled for years because of the price tag -- upwards of 200 - MILLION dollars. Many area residents are also concerned that superfund status could hurt local property values. A developer has expressed interest in using the site for a biomass plant -- but the waste needs to be cleaned up first.
45} NODISTRICT_WHITE
New Hampshire lawmakers have rejected a resolution that would have supported-- admitting the District of Columbia as the 51st state. D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray and members of the D.C. Council flew to New Hampshire Friday to testify before a state committee considering the resolution. But lawmakers rejected the proposal 8-to-3, citing concerns about whether it was constitutional.
46} TAXRECORDS6_VO
Vermont Lawmakers have approved a measure that will NOT penalize municipalities for revealing property tax information that should have been kept private. The Vermont Supreme court recently ruled that records of homeowners' property tax breaks -- under state income sensitivity provisions -- should NOT be made public. However, the court also said that tax information COULD be used to compute a property owner's income. Town clerks -- relying on advice from the Attorney General -- had considered the tax information public.
47} BATSAM_VO
A national caving organization is questioning the amount of bats that scientists say have been killed by white nose syndrome. Earlier this month -- scientists released new figures -- estimating that five point seven million bats have been killed by the mysterious fungal disease since it was first discovered back in 2006. The National Speleological Society believes the numbers are flawed -- because scientists last estimated the die-off at one million bats -- and NPS members say haven't they haven't any more dead bats in caves than in years past. The federal government is defending their numbers -- saying the figure may actually be to low.
48} FISHAM_FONT
Something fishy is happening in Montpelier. The house has passed a bill designating two fish species as the official state fish of vermont. The bill would make the brook trout the state's official cold water fish -- and the walleye pike Vermont's warm-water fish. The Senate will now take up the measure. Only six other states do not have an official state fish.
49} WEATHER2_GREEN
50} FORECAST2
Monday: Snow showers ending. Clearing skies. High 23/30. Wind NW 10-15 mph Monday Night: Increasing clouds. Chance of snow showers, mainly after midnight. Low 13/20. Wind Light. Tuesday: Cloudy skies. Light snow showers likely. High 30/37. Wind Light. Wednesday: Chance of rain showers, freezing rain. High 35/45. Thursday: Partly sunny. High 33/40. Friday: Chance of snow showers. High 27/34.
51} YOUR_TAKE_TECH
We brought you the story of a black hare sighting last week and it has prompted the posting of some more pictures YES we actually got 2 postings of the squirrel over the weekend. **SHOW BLACK SQUIRREL PIC** the first one is from Bonnie Baraw of Newport -- she says this guys been spotted around over the past year. Heather Woodell of Cavendish sent along this picture a few days ago, and it has generated a lot of comments! Harris Kelley Great pic, I saw a black squirrel once while hunting, nature has soo much beauty!! Curtis Corse almost looks like a skunk in disguise. Scott Bailey OH NO all the animals are turning rare lol Suzanne Cray Zisselsberger I hope no one MURDERS this poor little squirrel because he is black... (hince the story about the black hare) Ron Ortoli Only his (her) hairstylist knows, and they ain't talking. Cute though.
52} SPORTSWRAP_GREEN
After a bye-week in American East conference play, the University of Vermont was back on the court Sunday taking on their rivals from New Hampshire. Ashley Chase has the highlights in your Sportswrap.
53} SPORTSWRAP_PKG
((( The Vermont Men's basketball team home facing New Hampshire this afternoon, the owner of one of Vermont's 2 conference losses. Cats seeking revenge and a shot at tying Boston University for 2nd place in the America East. Huge crowd on hand as the Cats get fired up for UNH. --- Back-and-forth battle early on. And defense was key. --- Josh Elbaum with the steal he takes it coast-to-coast for the lay-in. 11 fast break points for UVM in this one. --- Four McGlynn dishing out most of the offense in the first half keeping the Cats in a tight knit game as UNH shot 68-percent from the floor in the first half. --- But today's lotto numbers are 4-4-3. McGlynn with a team-high 20 points. --- Another steal for the Cats, forcing 15 turnovers. Brendan Bald with the steal AND the slam. --- Tie game in the final seconds of the first half, and it's Clancy Rugg, drills the 3 pointer. Crowd loving that one from C-Rugg. That would be the difference, Vermont up 43-40 at the half. --- Time for second-half Sandro.... Carissimo, scoops up the loose ball, drains the 3. 14 points for Carissimo as he drives the lane for one more as Vermont goes on a 14-2 run to close the game out. --- Defense just STIFLING, Vermont only allowing UNH to score 20 points in the second half. --- One more from Four ... Cats pick up the Win 77-60 and take a tie with BU for 2nd place in the conference. Those teams meet on the road Wednesday.)))
54} SHORT_WX_DESK
55} GATORADE6_INTRO
This week's rain washed away some snow at Okemo Mountain -- forcing a junior pro ski and snowboard event to move to Killington. But it seems the lack of snow hasn't dampened the spirits of those hoping to make it to the big time. Deanna LeBlanc has more.
56} GATORADE6_PKG
Wet weather forced the Gatorade Free Flow Tour to switch mountains -- ((Nick Rosenberger/Skier: A slight weather change makes everything a little more intimidating)) intimidating, perhaps, because it meant the junior participants now got to share something in common with their idols ((Sophie Anderson/Snowboarder: it was pretty good, the pipe is still left over from the Dew Tour so it's nice.)) **FILE** Kids from ages 9 to 21 got to take a chance on the half pipe used just last week -- by the professional skiiers and riders of the Dew Tour. ((Maggie Leon/Snowboarder: the pipe was so nicely cut and everything)) Anderson and Leon -- natives to the area -- had a sort of home court advantage ... Taking first and second place in their division ((Nats award ceremony)) but despite the lack of winter weather others, like Logan Dobson, still traveled from as far away as Vernon, British Columbia. ((Logan Dobson/Skier: six hours by plane and then three and a half hours driving.)) Dobson says he doesn't let the mild weather and icy slopes slow him down ((skiing is just what I do -- it's worth the experience and good fun.)) Fun -- but possibly fruitful as well -- the kids are all competing for a chance to move on to a dew tour qualifier - meaning if they win today -- they're two steps away from going pro (((Dobson: yeah that's the ultimate goal I don't know -- not many people make it -- but it's worth a shot.)) And it's worth a shot to 16 year old Nick Rosenberger who moved away from home in Massachusetts to a ski academy in Maine to focus on his dreams ((Rosenberger: yeah, I'm trying to go pro.)) Like the fleeting snow flakes today -- fleeting is his time in the classroom -- Rosenberger more often trades in the classroom for a hotel room on the road ((Nick Rosenberger: my teachers give me packets so I usually just hang out in hotels and get my work done there and then bring it back when I'm done competing.)) For him -- it's all part of a bigger plan (Rosenberger: Basically i'm hoping to take a few years off before college, head out to Colorado ski there for a little bit and then apply to college and see what happens.)) While some of the day's participants were just there to have some fun, for others it's all about the future. Deanna LeBlanc, Ch. 3 News, Killington.
-------- The 6:00 News Scripts Follow ------------
1} ROOSTER_SOT
Good morning it's 5:00 -- I'm Keagan Harsha. And I'm Gary Sadowsky. Well it is monday -- and that means we begin another work week with a visit from the rooster.
2} WX_INTRO
weather intro
3} CRASH_VO
Students at Champlain Valley Union High School will take time today -- to remember a classmate killed in a tragic car accident. 16 year old Zeke Kassel died Friday morning on his way to school when the car he was in went off the road and hit a tree. The seventeen year old driver and Kassel's 15 year old sister were not injured in the accident. Champlain Valley Union High school stayed open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Saturday to help students and staff deal with the tragedy. Several moments of silence are planned for this morning and the school will be offering additional guidance services as needed.
4} UPDATE_SOTVO
((Sean McMannon/CVU Principal: We try to balance routine with the idea that there's a range of emotions that students and staff need to go through and we give the space to them to some degree 08:16:13-08:16:24)) Police are still investigating the accident, they say they do NOT believe speed was a factor.
5} MENDONTHUGS_WHITE
Two Mendon teenagers are facing a string of charges -- after police say they vandalized several school busses. 16 year old Timothy Hughes and 16 year old Ethan Snitker allegedly broke into a bus at Barstow Memorial School in Chittenden -- stole several fire extinguishers -- and then urinated on the seats. Police also believe the pair broke into the school -- although no damage was found.
6} POTDISPENSARY11_INTRO
Vermont's Department of Public safety has announced guidelines for the state's first medical marijuana dispensaries. Kyle Midura spoke with patients, advocates and those who hope to run a facility.
7} POTDISPENSARY11_PKG
(nat pop lighter) State legislators say Vermont wouldn't have a medical marijuana law if it wasn't for Manchester Resident Mark Tucci. Eight years after the initial legislation passed, new rules are in place for businesses to sell marijuana to patients like him. ((14:12:03 - 14:12:11 - Tucci they did a real good job they went from the perspective of what's best for the patients first, second how do we avoid diversion.)) The four-hundred plus Vermont patients currently grow their own medicine or have others do it for them, but as many as four distribution centers are expected to be operational by the end of the year. (( 14:17:59, - 18:06 - Tucci will you stop growing your own marijuana and use a dispensary... I'm going to say, right off, no)) But according to a recent survey, 90% of patients say they'd make the switch. That's because many lack the expertise and the physical capability to grow medicinal cannabis. ((11:26:26 - Shayne Lynn we will be having a consultant to help grow )) Burlington resident Shayne Lynn isn't a patient, but says he's already secured a location for his future dispensary. He'll have to apply to the state for consideration, and pay 30-thousand dollars a year for the right to operate. That's on top of startup costs expected to eclipse 150-thousand dollars. ((11:23:26 - Lynn we're going to have to balance offering affordable medicinal cannabis with running a nonprofit business. 11:23:35)) The new rules will mandate background checks, significant video security, and one-at-a-time appointment-only service at the dispensaries. Patient advocates say THAT - along with a state-wide 1,000 patient limit - should prevent federal raids seen in other states. ((14:43:20 Virginia Renfrew - patient advocate I think that hopefully for the federal government when they look at Vermont they look at Vermont is being a model 14:43:25)) Patients and advocates they'd like the state to make product testing available, a delivery system, and an alternative method of receiving medicine for those who grow their own but suffer crop loss. But those we spoke to, say that can wait. KM, CH3, BTV.
8} POTDISPENSARY11_TAG
Cities and towns will also have to approve any proposed dispensary.
9} ROBBERY_WHITE
A brattleboro convenience store was robbed this weekend -- for the second time in two weeks. According to police -- someone walked into the Mobil station on Canal Street Saturday and handed the clerk a note demanding cash. The clerk complied -- and the robber took off. The thief is described as a white man-- about 5 feet ten inches tall with a stocky build. He matches the description of a man who robbed the same store on January 14th.
10} FATALFIRE_MAP
A cigarette is being blamed for starting a fire that killed a senior citizen from Post Mills. Fire crews were called to the apartment building on Route 113 Friday evening for a report of smoke in the building. When firefighters arrived on scene-- they found the body of 69-year-old Clifford Lyons in one of the apartments. Police say he died from apparent smoke inhalation-- however an autopsy is being conducted. Fire investigators say the small fire started after a lit cigarette caught an oxygen tube on fire.
11} TURBINEFIRE6_VO
Authorities are investigating what caused a wind turbine to catch fire in Northern New York. It happened Saturday night in Altona. Officials say people driving by the windfarm noticed the fire in one of the 400 foot turbines. Noble Environmental -- the owner of the windfarm -- says no one was injured. The cause of the fire is not known. Two years ago a turbine at the same park came crashing down when the blades spun out-of-control in high winds. An investigation in that case uncovered a wiring problem that prevented the turbine from safely shutting down. Wind speed at the time of the fire was reportedly around 25 miles per hour.
12} LUDLOWAM_LVSD
like many towns -- Ludlow is facing a long to do list in the wake of irene, but a big name in baseball is stepping up to the plate to make that list just a little bit shorter. Molly Smith joins us in the studio -- with more on the story. well Keagan -- he is a connecticut native who grew up spending his winters on the slopes at Okemo -- and when he got word of the fall out at the local ball fields Major League Pitcher Carl Pavano used his connections to help the kids.
13} LUDLOWAM_PKG
((nats of catch)) Most major leaguers head south in the off season, but not Carl Pavano. ((more nats)) He has a thing for the snow and Okemo -- so he has turned to the ludlow rec center for his winter workouts. ((Carl Pavano: thanks to howie he lets me use some of the facilities. The gyms and the basketball courts which enables me to throw and keep my training going. It's a perfect fit.)) Rec director Howie Paul -- says he is happy to open the facilities to Pavano. But a few months ago -- he had to ask for a favor of his own. Tropical storm Irene took out the ludlow little league's home turf -- washing away 10s of thousands of dollars worth of equipment down stream. After seeing the extent of the damage -- Paul said he knew someone who could help. ((Carl Pavano: I made a couple phone calls to some mlb players association reps they told me what kind of steps I can take to help. Gave me some numbers to foundations to call.)) ((molly smith the ludlow little leaguers may have no idea where charlies pizza is or where darien fd is based out of but they do know they are thankful to have these jerseys to play in this season thanks to a very special donation.)) ((howie paul: within a week they called back and said we are going to give you everything you need.)) a philadelphia based organization called "pitching in for baseball" came to the rescue -- sending these two boxes full of brand new baseballs, helmets, uniforms, gloves, pitching machines -- any and everything else baseball. Enough gear to outfit 12 teams. ((howie paul: like xmas times 10. We had a big event when the equipment came in. Carl came down, david rhodes from pitch in for baseball came up from Philadelphia. To see the smile on the kids faces and how happy and excited they were that is what this is all about. All about the kids.)) During this time of rebuilding -- so many people need help, but Pavano said he chose a group he knew would be last on the list. ((Carl Pavano: howie had said that most likely these would be things that would be left last to be picked up because of the budgets in vt and the shortfalls and stuff like that. I took it upon myself to put it on the front burner because I have the ability to do that.)) ((howie paul: With all the chaos going on that is where they would want to go and when it's not there it makes things tough)) Pavano says it doesn't matter if you are gearing up for spring training in the major leagues-- or just little leagues -- new gear always helps when it comes to the win column. ((Carl Pavano: you always feel like you are that much better when the stuff is new.)) giving a whole new meaning to the idea of a rebuilding year.
14} LUDLOWAM_TAG
the rec fields -- you just saw are still in rough shape, insurance is expected to cover some of the cost, but Paul says 80% of the funding for this work will have to come from donations. -- Keagan?
15} NICKELODEON_VO
The University of Vermont will have an animated graduation speaker this year. The president of the Nickelodeon television network-- Cyma Zarghami-- will be the commencement speaker at this year's graduation ceremonies. Zarghami joined Nickelodeon after leaving the University of Vermont in 1985. She rose through the ranks before being named president in 2006. Zarghami now oversees creative and business operations for Viacom's-- Nickelodeon Group. Along with the commencement speech-- she will also receive an honorary degree from the university.
16} WEATHER_GREEN
17} FORECAST
Monday: Snow showers ending. Clearing skies. High 23/30. Wind NW 10-15 mph Monday Night: Increasing clouds. Chance of snow showers, mainly after midnight. Low 13/20. Wind Light. Tuesday: Cloudy skies. Light snow showers likely. High 30/37. Wind Light. Wednesday: Chance of rain showers, freezing rain. High 35/45. Thursday: Partly sunny. High 33/40. Friday: Chance of snow showers. High 27/34.
18} STOCKS
(stox font)
19} MONEYWATCH_INTRO
One of the most popular social networking sites is expected to go public this week -- and Facebook's decision means it could quickly become one of the world's largest public companies. Alexis Christoforous has more in our moneywatch.
20} MONEYWATCH_PKG
-FACEBOOK IS EXPECTED TO FILE PAPERWORK THIS WEEK SO IT CAN SELL STOCK TO THE PUBLIC. IT'S THE MOST HOTLY ANTICIPATED TECH I-P-O IN A DECADE. THE SOCIAL NETWORKING COMPANY IS EXPECTED TO RAISE AS MUCH AS 10 BILLION DOLLARS IN ITS INTIAL PUBLIC STOCK OFFERING... WHICH WOULD VALUE THE COMPANY AT 75 TO 100 BILLION DOLLARS. FACEBOOK'S IPO WOULD PLACE IT AMONG THE TOP RANKS OF THE LARGEST PUBLIC COMPANIES IN THE WORLD, INCLUDING MCDONALDS AND BANK OF AMERICA. -THE STOCK MARKET HAS HAD AN IMPRESSIVE JANUARY. THE DOW JONES INDUSTRIAL AVERAGE HAS GAINED ABOUT 4 PERCENT AND THE TECH-HEAVY NASDAQ HAS DONE EVEN BETTER, UP 7 PERCENT FOR THE MONTH. EXPERTS PREDICT A GOOD YEAR FOR TECHNOLOGY STOCKS. MANY COMPANIES PUT OFF REPLACING WORN-OUT TECHNOLOGY DURING THE RECESSION. TO COMPETE AND SURVIVE, THEY NOW NEED TO INVEST IN TECH. -ON FRIDAY, STOCKS WERE MIXED ON NEWS THE U-S ECONOMY GREW AT A SLOWER PACE THAN EXPECTED LAST QUARTER. THE DOW FELL 74 POINTS. THE NASDAQ ROSE 11 POINTS. -CHRYSLER IS EXPECTED TO ANNOUNCE THIS WEEK THAT IT WILL HIRE 16-HUNDRED WORKERS AT A PLANT IN ILLINOIS. -INVESTORS WILL GET SOME POTENTIALLY MARKET-MOVING REPORTS THIS WEEK, INCLUDING THE LATEST ON INCOMES AND SPENDING, CONSUMER CONFIDENCE, AUTO SALES AND THE GOVERNMENT'S MONTHLY UNEMPLOYMENT REPORT. ECONOMISTS PREDICT EMPLOYERS ADDED 120-THOUSAND JOBS THIS MONTH AND THAT THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE HELD STEADY AT 8 AND A HALF PERCENT.
21} VTLAWSCHOOL6_VO
The money is flowing in at the Vermont Law School. Officials say the school say has surpassed its $15 million dollar goal for a current fundraising drive. School officials say they hope to raise another $1 to $2 million before closing the campaign at the end of June. VLS officials say it's the school's most successful capital fund drive ever.
22} SUPERFUNDVOTE6_VO
Voters in the towns of Lowell and Eden will weigh-in this Town Meeting Day on whether to have a former ASBESTOS mine declared a federal Superfund site. Cleanup of the abandoned mine has been stalled for years because of the price tag -- upwards of 200 - MILLION dollars. Many area residents are also concerned that superfund status could hurt local property values. A developer has expressed interest in using the site for a biomass plant -- but the waste needs to be cleaned up first.
23} NODISTRICT_WHITE
New Hampshire lawmakers have rejected a resolution that would have supported-- admitting the District of Columbia as the 51st state. D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray and members of the D.C. Council flew to New Hampshire Friday to testify before a state committee considering the resolution. But lawmakers rejected the proposal 8-to-3, citing concerns about whether it was constitutional.
24} NEWSVAULT_TECH
Vermont is a leader in many efforts -- but on this day in 1986 the state became the last in the northeast to up the drinking age from 18-21
25} VAULT_1
It was a hot debate on the senate floor -- 26 years ago today. The effort to up the drinking age. the age limit for consumption was listed at 21 for most states following the repeal of prohibition in the 1930's , but then many states lowered the age to 18. In the late 70's states started to change the law again, bringing the legal drinking age back up to 21 in part to combat drunk driving fatalities -- and on this day Vermont joined the pack, but was one of the last states to do so.
26} VAULT_2
(( the issue passes on a 16-14 vote))
27} WX_CHAT_TECH
28} TAXRECORDS6_VO
Vermont Lawmakers have approved a measure that will NOT penalize municipalities for revealing property tax information that should have been kept private. The Vermont Supreme court recently ruled that records of homeowners' property tax breaks -- under state income sensitivity provisions -- should NOT be made public. However, the court also said that tax information COULD be used to compute a property owner's income. Town clerks -- relying on advice from the Attorney General -- had considered the tax information public.
29} CONDOS6_VO
Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos was in the Nation's capital this weekend. Condos attended the winter meeting of the National Association of Secretaries of State. He and his colleagues will be talking about preparations for the upcoming election. The group also plans to exchange information and ideas on business services, state archives and museums, security issues, international relations, and social media.
30} BATSAM_VO
A national caving organization is questioning the amount of bats that scientists say have been killed by white nose syndrome. Earlier this month -- scientists released new figures -- estimating that five point seven million bats have been killed by the mysterious fungal disease since it was first discovered back in 2006. The National Speleological Society believes the numbers are flawed -- because scientists last estimated the die-off at one million bats -- and NPS members say haven't they haven't any more dead bats in caves than in years past. The federal government is defending their numbers -- saying the figure may actually be to low.
31} FISHAM_FONT
Something fishy is happening in Montpelier. The house has passed a bill designating two fish species as the official state fish of vermont. The bill would make the brook trout the state's official cold water fish -- and the walleye pike Vermont's warm-water fish. The Senate will now take up the measure. Only six other states do not have an official state fish.
32} HEADLINES_FONT
Still to come as the news continues this morning.... Remembering a life cut short -- as students in hinesburg return to class following the death of a classmate. // Authorities try and determine why a wind turbine caught fire in northern new york.// plus -- it's deployment day for hundreds of national guard soldiers from our region.
33} QUICK_WX_DESK
But before we get to those stories -- let's take a quick look at how the weather is shaping up this morning.
34} MARIJUANA7X_VO
Vermont Public safety officials have announced guidelines for the state's first medical marijuana dispensaries. As many as four distribution centers are expected to be operational by the end of the year to serve the 400 plus patients on the state registry. The new rules will mandate background checks, significant video security, and one-at-a-time appointments. Burlington resident Shayne Lynch says he's already secured a location for his future dispensary. He'll have to apply and pay 30-thousand dollars a year for the right to operate.
35} DISPENSARY7X_SOTVO
((11:23:26 we're going to have to balance offering affordable medicinal cannabis with running a nonprofit business. 11:23:35)) ((14:43:20 I think that hopefully for the federal government when they look at Vermont they look at Vermont is being a model 14:43:25)) Medical Marijuana is still lllegal under federal law. But Patient advocates say that a state-wide 1,000 patient limit in Vermont will prevent federal raids seen in other states.
36} NYGUARD6_VO
18-hundred National Guard soldiers in New York are beginning a new mission. The soldiers-- from the 27th Brigade Combat Team-- are departing today for Camp Shelby, Mississippi for two months of training. Then, they will to head to the Middle East for a 12-month deployment in Kuwait. Scores of family members met this weekend at the National Guard Armory Morrisonville to see off their citizen soldiers. Similar ceremonies took place across the state.
37} TURBINETOPS_VO
Authorities are investigating what caused a wind turbine to catch fire in Northern New York. It happened Saturday night in Altona. Officials say people driving by the windfarm noticed the fire in one of the 400 foot turbines. Noble Environmental -- the owner of the windfarm -- says no one was injured. The cause of the fire is not known. Wind speed at the time of the fire was reportedly around 25 miles per hour.
38} WORLDWATCH_GREEN
Republican presidential candidates are battling it out for a final day before tomorrow's Florida primaries, where most polls predict Romney will win. Terrell Brown has more in our worldwatch.
39} WORLDWATCH_PKG
-Republican presidential candidates Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich will continue trying to court voters in Florida today ahead of tomorrow's critical primary. With several polls showing Romney in the lead.... Rick Santorum and Ron Paul have all but conceded the top spot. Paul has no public events planned today while Santorum will visit the Midwest. Santorum CANCELLED campaign stops in Florida Sunday to stay with his young daughter who was hospitalized with pneumonia. -Parts of a major Florida highway remain closed this morning following a deadly pileup south of Gainesville. At least 10 people were killed and 18 injured on Interstate 75 early Sunday morning. Authorities say dense fog and heavy smoke from a brush fire blinded drivers causing more than 70 vehicles to crash into each other. Police are looking into whether the blaze was the work of an arsonist. -Beginning at noon today... the National Park Service will begin enforcing a strict no-camping rule at two Washington, DC parks. The move comes after Republican lawmakers last week questioned why Occupy Wall Street protesters have been allowed to live there since October. Officials say demonstrators will still be allowed to protest at the two sites but they won't be allowed to sleep there.
40} CRASHAM_VO
Students at Champlain Valley Union High School will take time today -- to remember a classmate killed in a tragic car accident. 16 year old Zeke Kassel died Friday morning on his way to school when the car he was in went off the road and hit a tree. The seventeen year old driver and Kassel's 15 year old sister were not injured in the accident. Several moments of silence are planned for this morning.
41} CHILDPORN_WHITE
An elementary school teacher in bennington is accused of possessing child porn. John Dockum has taught fifth grade at monument elementary school since 2009. The 34 year old has now been placed on paid administrative leave -- after police say a family member found images of naked young girls on his school computer. Police do not believe any local children were victimized. Dockum faces up to two years in prison if convicted.
42} WEATHER2_GREEN
43} FORECAST2
Monday: Snow showers ending. Clearing skies. High 23/30. Wind NW 10-15 mph Monday Night: Increasing clouds. Chance of snow showers, mainly after midnight. Low 13/20. Wind Light. Tuesday: Cloudy skies. Light snow showers likely. High 30/37. Wind Light. Wednesday: Chance of rain showers, freezing rain. High 35/45. Thursday: Partly sunny. High 33/40. Friday: Chance of snow showers. High 27/34.
44} YOUR_TAKE_TECH
We brought you the story of a black hare sighting last week and it has prompted the posting of some more pictures YES we actually got 2 postings of the squirrel over the weekend. **SHOW BLACK SQUIRREL PIC** the first one is from Bonnie Baraw of Newport -- she says this guys been spotted around over the past year. Heather Woodell of Cavendish sent along this picture a few days ago, and it has generated a lot of comments! Harris Kelley Great pic, I saw a black squirrel once while hunting, nature has soo much beauty!! Curtis Corse almost looks like a skunk in disguise. Scott Bailey OH NO all the animals are turning rare lol Suzanne Cray Zisselsberger I hope no one MURDERS this poor little squirrel because he is black... (hince the story about the black hare) Ron Ortoli Only his (her) hairstylist knows, and they ain't talking. Cute though.
45} SPORTSWRAP_GREEN
After a bye-week in American East conference play, the University of Vermont was back on the court Sunday taking on their rivals from New Hampshire. Ashley Chase has the highlights in your Sportswrap.
46} SPORTSWRAP_PKG
((( The Vermont Men's basketball team home facing New Hampshire this afternoon, the owner of one of Vermont's 2 conference losses. Cats seeking revenge and a shot at tying Boston University for 2nd place in the America East. Huge crowd on hand as the Cats get fired up for UNH. --- Back-and-forth battle early on. And defense was key. --- Josh Elbaum with the steal he takes it coast-to-coast for the lay-in. 11 fast break points for UVM in this one. --- Four McGlynn dishing out most of the offense in the first half keeping the Cats in a tight knit game as UNH shot 68-percent from the floor in the first half. --- But today's lotto numbers are 4-4-3. McGlynn with a team-high 20 points. --- Another steal for the Cats, forcing 15 turnovers. Brendan Bald with the steal AND the slam. --- Tie game in the final seconds of the first half, and it's Clancy Rugg, drills the 3 pointer. Crowd loving that one from C-Rugg. That would be the difference, Vermont up 43-40 at the half. --- Time for second-half Sandro.... Carissimo, scoops up the loose ball, drains the 3. 14 points for Carissimo as he drives the lane for one more as Vermont goes on a 14-2 run to close the game out. --- Defense just STIFLING, Vermont only allowing UNH to score 20 points in the second half. --- One more from Four ... Cats pick up the Win 77-60 and take a tie with BU for 2nd place in the conference. Those teams meet on the road Wednesday.)))
47} SHORT_WX_DESK
48} DISCGOLF_INTRO
It's a sport that can be played out in the elements. And it can also be used to do some good. Susie Steimle introduces us to the sport of disc golfing.
49} DISCGOLF_PKG
It's called the ice bowl. ((Murray Junod/Disc-Golfer: The slogan is no wimps no whiners 08:05:42-08:05:44)) ((Peter Hess/Tournament Organizer: We've played with tee time below zero in two feet of snow 07:56:00-07:56:06)) It's a nationwide disc-golf tournament that raises money for food shelves around the country. The Green Mountain Disc-Golf Club has been participating in the Ice bowl for six years now. ((Susie Steimle/Waterbury Center: In its 1st year only raised 500 dollars 6 years later they are expecting to raise more than 6,000. All proceeds go to the local food shelf 08:04:49-08:04:59)) ((Peter Hess/Tournament Organizer: This year all money is going to Waterbury area food shelf, we're excited to support them as a member of the community and a community that has supported the course for quite some time 07:53:09-07:53:20)) Still not sure what this sport is we're talking about? It's essentially what it sounds like, golf played with a disc, or small frisbee. The object is to throw the disc into a metal basket several yards away. Just like with golf, a stroke, or point is added to each turn until the disc lands in the basket. The goal is to have the lowest score. ((Murray Junod/Disc Golfer: It originally started back in the early mid seventies but in the past 5,6 years the sport has really boomed and courses have just multiplied all over the place 08:06:38-08:06:49)) Saturday players were asked to contribute a twenty dollar donation to the food shelf, last year the club came in tenth of 233 teams in the nation. They're hoping to surpass that number this time around. ((Peter Hess/Tournament Organizer: I can tell you from the folks that showed up today are averaging more than 50 per person as far as the donation they've been making 07:57:15-07:57:24)) A golf game that can be played any time of the year -- at the ice bowl they say the worse the weather the more proud they are to play. Susie Steimle channel three news, Waterbury Center.
-------- The 8:25 News Scripts Follow ------------
1} FATALFIRE_MAP
A cigarette is being blamed for starting a fire that killed a senior citizen from Post Mills. Fire crews were called to the apartment building on Route 113 Friday evening for a report of smoke in the building. When firefighters arrived on scene-- they found the body of 69-year-old Clifford Lyons in one of the apartments. Police say he died from apparent smoke inhalation-- however an autopsy is being conducted. Fire investigators say the small fire started after a lit cigarette caught an oxygen tube on fire.
2} ROBBERY_WHITE
A brattleboro convenience store was robbed this weekend -- for the second time in two weeks. According to police -- someone walked into the Mobil station on Canal Street Saturday and handed the clerk a note demanding cash. The clerk complied -- and the robber took off. The thief is described as a white man-- about 5 feet ten inches tall with a stocky build. He matches the description of a man who robbed the same store on January 14th.
3} MENDONTHUGS_WHITE
Two Mendon teenagers are facing a string of charges -- after police say they vandalized several school busses. 16 year old Timothy Hughes and 16 year old Ethan Snitker allegedly broke into a bus at Barstow Memorial School in Chittenden -- stole several fire extinguishers -- and then urinated on the seats. Police also believe the pair broke into the school -- although no damage was found.
4} CHILDPORN_WHITE
An elementary school teacher in bennington is accused of possessing child porn. John Dockum has taught fifth grade at monument elementary school since 2009. The 34 year old has now been placed on paid administrative leave -- after police say a family member found images of naked young girls on his school computer. Police do not believe any local children were victimized. Dockum faces up to two years in prison if convicted.
5} SUPERFUNDVOTE6_VO
Voters in the towns of Lowell and Eden will weigh-in this Town Meeting Day on whether to have a former ASBESTOS mine declared a federal Superfund site. Cleanup of the abandoned mine has been stalled for years because of the price tag -- upwards of 200 - MILLION dollars. Many area residents are also concerned that superfund status could hurt local property values.
6} BATSAM_VO
A national caving organization is questioning the amount of bats that scientists say have been killed by white nose syndrome. Earlier this month -- scientists released new figures -- estimating that five point seven million bats have been killed by the mysterious fungal disease since it was first discovered back in 2006. The National Speleological Society believes the numbers are flawed -- because scientists last estimated the die-off at one million bats -- and NPS members say they haven't any more dead bats in caves than in years past. The federal government is defending their numbers -- saying the figure may actually be too low.
Top of Script
Last Update: Mon 30-JAN-2012
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