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(06/05/03 1:27am)
Bloomington schools may be out for the summer, but children from low income housing are still receiving free meals.\nThe annual breakfast program sponsored by Community Kitchen of Monroe County, Inc. began Monday, which also coincides with National Hunger Awareness Day. The program, now in its sixth year, provides breakfast to children in low income housing units who are on federal school meal programs and are without school breakfast and lunch during the summer months.\n"The program fills a really important need," said Julio Alonso, director of Community Kitchen. "It's really disturbing that over 3,000 children in Monroe County are at risk of hunger in the summer."\nLast year's program provided over 11,000 meals to kids -- an average of over 200 meals per day. Breakfasts consist of milk or juice, cereal, fresh fruit and yogurt. Food is supplied primarily by the Hoosier Hills Food Bank and other local organizations. The program relies heavily on contributions, and community members are encouraged to donate breakfast foods including juice boxes, cereal and breakfast bars.\n"The meals are delivered 'ice cream truck style' at six different locations in the county," Alonso said. "We have gotten a lot of good feedback and the kids definitely love the meals."\nDan Taylor, assistant director at the Hoosier Hills Food Bank said they are holding and storing breakfast-type food for the Community Kitchen. Taylor said the Hoosier Hills Food Bank's mission is to collect food for different organizations.\n"Members of our generous community have already donated items such as individual cereal boxes and granola bars to us," Taylor said.\nTaylor said he is happy to participate in this program which works to address the issue of hunger in the area.\n"We chose to make people aware that this is a situation where so many are home hungry during the summer due to limited incomes," Taylor said.\nIn addition to providing food for individuals during the summer months, Community Kitchen also gives food to Girl's Inc. Marilyn Ketcham, office manager at Girl's Inc., picks up breakfast for the girls every morning from Community Kitchen.\n"The breakfast helps keep the girls energized throughout the day and it gives the families one less thing to worry about in the morning," Ketcham said.\nCommunity Kitchen was established in 1983 and serves free, nutritional meals to anyone in need with no fees or eligibility requirements.\nThe mission of Community Kitchen is "To work alone and in collaboration with others to eliminate hunger in Monroe County, through direct feeding services, education and advocacy." Community Kitchen has served over 65,000 meals in the last five years.\nAlonso said hunger is a growing problem in the county and there has been a 56 percent increase in meals provided by Community Kitchen the past two years.\n"It's more of a problem than many of us realize," Alonso said. "We are only reaching a tiny fraction of children, but we are confident that this program is making a difference in the lives of the children and their families"
(05/29/03 1:40am)
Friends, family and those who knew Jill Behrman will come together at 10:30 a.m. Saturday to celebrate her life at the First United Methodist Church, 219 E. 4th St. The service will be conducted by Rev. Howard Boles, who currently serves as a senior pastor at Roberts Park United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. The May 31 service marks the third anniversary of Behrman's disappearance while bicycling just south of Bloomington. \nThe Behrman family said they extend their gratitude to everyone who has volunteered their time to events honoring Jill Behrman and will greet friends and family after the service in the church's hall.\n"Throughout the nearly three years since Jill's disappearance, we have received the support of family, close friends, neighbors, colleagues, the community and beyond," Eric and Marilyn Behrman, Jill Behrman's parents, said in a statement.\nJill Behrman, who was 19 at the time of her disappearance, was a member of deCycles Indiana and Monroe County YMCA, as well as an employee at the Student Recreational Sports Center, McDonald's at Read Center, IU Athletic Outfitters and Hoosiers for Higher Education. She was a 1999 graduate of Bloomington High School South, where she played volleyball and ran track.\nThe Behrman family has requested that in place of flowers, guests make donations to local non-profit agencies to honor Jill. These organizations include the First United Methodist Church's Behrman scholarship fund, the Jill Behrman Emerging Leadership Scholarship fund at the IU Foundation, or Jill's House, Inc., a temporary residence for patients undergoing cancer treatment at the Midwest Proton Radiotherapy Institute.\n"We felt that although flowers are nice, so many people and organizations helped us honor Jill's memory, and we should in turn take the opportunity to help others who are in need," Eric Behrman said.\nOrganized by Peg and Bud Howard, close friends of the Behrman's, Jill's House, Inc. provides a temporary, home-like residence for patients undergoing outpatient therapy at the IU Proton Therapy facility. Proton therapy, a type of cancer treatment, delivers high doses of radiation treatment to a tumor without destroying or affecting healthy tissue around the tumor.\n"We thought this was the way to show support to the Behrman family," Peg Howard, president of Jill's House, said. "We know how difficult it is to lose a child, and we felt this organization would really speak in large volumes." \nWhen Jill's House opens in March 2004, it will be equipped with all the comforts of a home, including a kitchen, bedrooms and laundry facilities. Professional staff will provide comfort, healing and medical assistance to the guests.\n"I think the organization would delight Jill tremendously, because she was a very compassionate and warm-hearted person," Peg Howard said. "She cared so much about people and would be pleased to have her name on this cause, which will have a long-lasting legacy."\nPeg Howard said while insurance companies pay for proton therapy, they often fail to cover the cost of transportation, lodging, laundry and food. She estimates the cost for a parent and child to stay in Bloomington for the duration of the treatment is $6,000 to $8,000. By offering free food and lodging, Jill's House will make proton therapy available to everyone, not only to those who can afford it. \nJill's House, Inc., is funded entirely by events and donations from community members and local organizations.\n"The fact that the community cares so much is really helping the Behrman family more than anything," Peg Howard said\nBloomington showed a tremendous response to Jill's disappearance by sponsoring numerous charity events in her honor. \n"We are trying to do as much in the community as possible in a positive manner to help remember Jill and honor her memory and ideals," Eric Behrman said.\nRun for the End-Zone 5K run and walk, which has been an IU tradition since 1996, was recently named in Behrman's honor by the Division of Recreational Sports. Thousands of Bloomington residents and IU students participate in this annual event as proceeds go directly to two important causes -- the Jill Behrman Emerging Leader Scholarship and Jill's House. The event also is designed to raise awareness about personal safety. The event raised $12,000 in 2001 and more than $10,000 last fall. \nSponsored by the Delta Upsilon fraternity, the first annual Jill Behrman Unity Ride took place in 2001 and raised more than $1,200 for Jill's House and nearly $1,700 last April.\nBrian Behrman, Jill Behrman's brother, is a DU alumnus. Jill Behrman was also a close friend to many DU brothers, and he said her disappearance deeply affected the fraternity.\n"It's amazing to know that the guys cared so much about my family," Brian Behrman said. "To take on this huge philanthropy even after I graduated really means a lot to me."\nThe noncompetitive ride follows a course through southern Bloomington, a favorite riding area of Jill's. The 11-mile route begins and ends at Jackson Street Middle School. The course is near the Behrman's home and includes many of the same roads that Jill Behrman rode.\n"The route basically followed at least a portion of what Jill probably rode the day she disappeared," Brian Behrman said. "The route for the ride is also the one she and I rode on together."\nJill Behrman's "Celebration of Life" is open to family, friends and members of the IU and Bloomington community. Eric and Marilyn Behrman said they hope the service will bring a resolution to this tragedy.\n"The time has come to join together in remembrance of Jill and celebrate the meaning her life has brought to our family and to so many others," Eric and Marilyn Behrman said in the statement.
(05/22/03 1:12am)
Rose Marie Sowders now has four months to wait before she is sentenced.\nBefore her May 13 triple murder trial could begin, 34-year-old Sowders, advised by defense attorney Ron Chapman, changed her plea to guilty but mentally ill on three counts of murder. In exchange, Monroe County Deputy Prosecutor MaryEllen Diekhoff withdrew her request that Sowders be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the Aug. 16, 2002, murders of her ex-husband, Jeff Rainbolt, 36; her boyfriend, Eric Sipes, 34; and Sipes' 10-year-old son, Derick.\n"This plea got (Sowders) out of the possibility of spending her life behind bars," Chapman said.\nSowders, who now faces 45 to 65 years in prison, is scheduled for sentencing at 8:30 a.m. on Sept. 5. Monroe Circuit Judge Elizabeth Mann said if the terms are imposed consecutively, Sowders could face 195 years in prison with a maximum sentence.\n"My position is they should run consecutive," Diekhoff said in a statement.\nChapman said Sowders was insane at the time of the killings and therefore is not accountable for them. He is arguing that a series of disorders in Sowders' medical records indicate the severity of her illness.\n"Chronic depression, anxiety, autism and many other illnesses contributed to Sowder's state of mind," Chapman said.\nThe plea of guilty but mentally ill means Sowders would get an immediate mental evaluation by doctors with the Indiana Department of Corrections after sentencing. If deemed to be recovered, she would serve the rest of her term at a women's prison. Sowders currently is being held without bail in the Monroe County Jail.\nSowders was mentally evaluated by two court-appointed doctors earlier this fall. Both psychiatrists from the Center for Behavioral Health reported they believed Sowders to have been sane at the time of the murders.\nLinda Brady, chief probation officer for the Monroe County Probation Department, said she is awaiting an order on Sowders' case before preparing a pre-sentence investigation, which gathers information on the defendant. Copies of the report will be given to Judge Mann, Chapman and Diekhoff at the Sept. 5 sentencing. The court will use this information to make a sentence decision.\n"The investigation collects information on the defendant," Brady said. "For example, the background check will include criminal history, financial information, work history and previous alcohol and drug use."\nSowders, a resident of Smithville, Ind., admitted to shooting Snipes and his son at their home last August. Sowders then drove to Rainbolt's home on South Garrison Chapel Road, where she shot him to death. According to police reports, Sowders confessed to her brother,Gerald Sowders, who later alerted a sheriff deputy "Monroe County has very few murder trials," Chapman said. "This case is extremely unique"
(05/05/03 5:27am)
The amendment to the 1993 smoking ordinance that has caused controversy in Monroe County for months was approved in a 2-1 vote Friday. Monroe County commissioners passed amendments to Chapter 370 of the Monroe County code, which will ban smoking in most public places.\nCommissioners' attorney Bill Steger defined public places as "any enclosed indoor area used by the general public" in a statement. The ban will take effect Aug. 1, with the exception of bars established prior to the 1993 smoking ordinance, which will go smoke-free on Jan. 1, 2005.\n"I think it's appropriate for the health board to take care of the air quality throughout the county," Joyce Poling, Monroe County commissioner president said.\nAny business that violates the ordinance can be charged with a $25 fine paid to the general fund of the county. Each additional day of violation will result in additional fines.\nScott Taylor, manager of Crazy Horse, one of Bloomington's only all-smoking restaurants and bars, said he is unsure how the ordinance will affect business after Jan. 1, 2005.\n"It will most likely mean we will gain more smokers and lose business from people who go out with their families," Taylor said.\nThe decision to amend Monroe County's 1993 no-smoking ordinance was introduced by commissioners and carried out by the county health board in an effort to make county air healthier for anyone in a public place. The smoking ban was passed for the city in Bloomington in early March. The county ban was put on hold because of debate. \n"The county is trying to work as closely as possible with the city in order to create proper regulations," said George Hegeman, Health Board president.\nOpponents argue the ban violates smokers' personal rights, while those in favor said the ordinance will reduce the effects of second-hand smoke.\nAccording to "Smoke Free Indiana," second-hand smoke is the third-leading cause of preventable death in the country, killing over 53,000 non-smokers each year. \nThe Indiana State Department of Health reported that tobacco use kills 10,000 Hoosiers each year. Indiana is the second-highest state for smoking, as 89 percent of smokers smoke each day. The report also says that one Indiana smoker dies each hour from a smoking-related illness.\nBob Schmidt, Monroe County health administrator said most residents generally support the amendment to reduce the effects of smoking.\n"Healthy people are happier, and it is our obligation as well as residents' rights for us to take measures to restrict exposure for people who don't want to smoke," he said.
(04/28/03 5:31am)
Reality TV came to life in Bloomington on Sunday as screaming fans lined up at the College Mall hoping to catch a glimpse of four of America's hottest 'idols.'\nEJay Day, Kristin Holt, Vanessa Olivarez and Rickey Smith, former contestants on Fox's highest rated television show, "American Idol," entertained Bloomington's reality TV addicts at the "Behind-the-Scenes with American Idol" tour, sponsored by Simon Malls and Coca-Cola.\nThe tour began April 5 in both Miami and New York and will conclude on May 4 in Los Angeles and Atlanta, prior to the season finale of "American Idol 2." The tour is exclusive to Simon Malls because of their multi-marketing partnership with Coca-Cola.\n"The finalists interacted extremely well with the audience," said Dena Marietta, marketing director for the College Mall. "They took the time to sign autographs, take pictures and meet their fans face to face."\nThe four-hour event featured live performances from the stars, karaoke contests designed to feel like an American Idol audition, trivia contests, question and answer sessions with the stars, dance demonstrations from professional choreographers and contests to win prize packages from Coca-Cola and Simon Malls.\nCoca-Cola also created recognizable elements from the show, such as the Red Room and behind the scenes moments that enhance and extend the excitement of "American Idol" for fans.\nSmith said the tour is a great way to show appreciation and give back to "American Idol" fans who devote endless hours to the show.\n"To see all of these people cheering me on is what keeps me going," Smith said. "It's a dream of mine to have participated in the show and tour."\nSophomore Jody Klenetsky entertained the crowd with her own karaoke version of Britney Spears' "Hit Me Baby One More Time." Klenetsky was chosen from the audience to compete with three other fans for prize packages.\n"It was really exciting to be up in front of everyone and get feedback from former 'American Idol' contestants on my singing ability," Klenetsky said. "It was definitely something I won't forget."\nHolt said being recognized by people in each city is what keeps her energy flowing.\n"The fans were the ones who made the show what it is," Holt said. "Without their support, 'American Idol' wouldn't last. This tour is a way of showing the fans how much we truly adore them."\nBillie Scott, public relations director for Simon Property Group, said the co-sponsored tour is validation that malls are the perfect place for advertisers and sponsors to directly connect with customers. \n"Everybody is having such a wonderful time with this tour," Scott said. "It's a clean, wholesome and contemporary event."\nKlenetsky said the excitement of participating in the "American Idol" tour was much better than watching the show from her living room.\n"Many times these types of events only go to large cities with huge malls," Klenetsky said. "Having the tour come to Bloomington was a great idea because the turnout was incredible"
(04/25/03 5:46am)
Law enforcement agencies in Bloomington are well-prepared to handle the celebrations of the Little 500 -- otherwise known as "The World's Greatest College Weekend."\nSgt. Bill Parker of the Bloomington police said coordinated efforts to reduce crime for the weekend events were planned months ago. Officers of the Bloomington Police Department will work overtime, as they will be divided into organized squads and two-man cars to send groups of various sizes to troubled areas in the community.\n"The provocative approaches we've taken in the past have seemed to work," Parker said. "We would like to anticipate that this will be a normal weekend, but we know it's not the case."\nParker said the most common types of violations during Little 500 weekend include under-age drinking, vandalism and fights. In past years, Parker said officers have been injured while on duty.\n"We need to send an appropriate amount of man power for different situations," Parker said.\nMonroe County Sheriff Steve Sharp said the average number of arrests made by his department over the weekend ranges from 100 to 150. Sharp advised party-goers to travel in groups and stay off the roads. He also urges those celebrating the events to stay inside their residences and keep noise levels under control.\n"We are all out there to protect the public from endangering themselves or others," Sharp said. "If concerns arise and situations are brought to our attention, police officers will become involved."\nThe Bloomington Shuttle Service, funded for weekend use by IUSA, will run its normal hours on Thursday to Saturday from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.\n"The purpose of the service is to transport students who are unable to drive to bars and back to their homes," said Latrece Spence, dispatcher for the Bloomington Shuttle Service.\nThe route for the two buses includes stops at local bars around North Walnut Street and Kirkwood Avenue, and campus area pickups and drop-offs are at McNutt and around Third Street. The service is free, and passengers are recommended to tip drivers.\nSharp said undercover police officers will be heavily monitoring bars during the weekend, taking appropriate actions for underage drinkers.\nLinda Prall, owner of Kilroy's Sports Bar, said Little 500 weekend is one of two times during the year when an outside security company is hired to assist the staff.\n"We had a special training program to prepare for the weekend and in addition to the security company's assistance, we will have 20 of our most experienced inside security guards," Prall said.\nMonroe County clerk Jim Fielder said the justice building, located on the corner of Seventh Street and College Avenue, will be open on Sunday from 8:30 a.m. until noon. At that time, students who were arrested over the weekend will be able to come in for a pretrial diversion.\n"The program is set up by the prosecutors, and it ensures that first time offenders will not walk away from Little 500 weekend with a conviction on their record," Fielder said.\nFielder said the county has seen between 200 and 600 arrests on Little 500 weekend each year. The program, which aims to assist arrested students, will require them to pay a $327 fee, as well as attend alcohol education classes as needed.\nIUPD Sgt. Jerry Minger cautioned students who are planning on celebrating the Little 500 weekend.\n"There will be many watchful eyes both on and off campus," Minger said.
(04/25/03 4:58am)
"American Idol" began in the United Kingdom and came to the United States last summer because of its overnight success. Over 30 million viewers tuned in for the finale last season, as Kelly Clarkson was named the first "American Idol." The search for the second "American Idol" is in progress as only five contestants are left. "American Idol" is on twice a week on Fox.\nCoca-Cola is bringing a new level of reality TV to Bloomington by sponsoring an exclusive 21 Simon Mall tour of one of the hottest shows on TV -- "American Idol." The tour is taking the excitement of the pop-culture phenomenon to the College Mall on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. as local fans will have the opportunity to meet EJ Day, Kristin Holt, Vanessa Olivarez and Rickey Smith, past finalists from the first and current season of the show. The interactive event will feature live performances from the stars, high-tech karaoke contests designed to feel like an "American Idol" audition, dance demonstrations from professional choreographers and contests to win prize packages from Coca-Cola and Simon Malls.\n"We are so excited to be a chosen spot for the tour of a show that gained a huge national following," said Dena Marietta, marketing director for the College Mall.\nThe tour began April 5 in both Miami and New York and will conclude on May 4 in Los Angeles and Atlanta, prior to the season finale of "American Idol 2." The tour is exclusive to Simon Malls because of their multi-marketing partnership with Coca-Cola.\n"To be named as the exclusive venue across the country for this tour speaks in large volumes," said Billie Scott, public relations director for Simon Property Group. "This is validation that malls are the perfect places for advertisers and sponsors to directly connect with customers."\nThe event is targeted to all "American Idol" fans, as entertainment will be provided for everyone to enjoy. Sophomore Scott Horowitz said he would not pass up this chance to meet stars from his favorite show face-to-face. \n"I was addicted from day one of the first season because I love music and television and this combines two of my favorite things," Horowitz said. "A place like Bloomington does not get many events like this, and that is what makes this so special."\nSmith was the newest star to join the tour after he was eliminated from the show April 9. Before the tour wraps up, there is a possibility more idols will participate in the event. \nMarietta said other malls hosting the tour are drawing crowds as large as 5,000 people. Doors will open at noon for Sunday's event and two plasma screens will be set up in center court so everyone can see while standing. \n"There will be a huge tent set up so fans can take digital photos on the mock set," Marietta said. "It will be a day filled with nonstop fun and we encourage fans of all ages to attend."\nThroughout the event, mall visitors will experience an "American Idol" trivia contest, a question and answer session with the celebrities and an opportunity to view video highlights of behind the scenes footage.\n"Sitting at home watching them sing their hearts out on national television does not compare to the excitement of meeting some of these amazing idols in person," Horowitz said.
(04/18/03 5:34am)
First came the Bloomington ban. Now, all of Monroe County might go smoke-free. \nCommissioners came before the Monroe County health board Thursday to introduce proposed amendments that would prohibit smoking in public places, excluding 18 and over bars and clubs established prior to the 1993 smoking ordinance.\nUnder the ban, all bars and clubs will go smoke-free after Jan. 1, 2005.\nThe final vote on the city-wide controversial issue will take place at the next commissioners' meeting on May 2. The anti-smoking ordinance in public and most work places was approved last month by an 8-1 vote, as commissioners agreed to address the issue of bars and clubs at a later date. If approved, smoking will be prohibited in all bars and clubs on Jan. 1, 2005. For other public places, the ban will go into effect this August. \nCommissioners' attorney Bill Steger defined public places as "any enclosed indoor area used by general public," in a statement.\nSteger said the definition excludes private clubs, outdoor eating areas and most workplaces. He said local bar owners are predicting an significant downfall in business after the ordinance goes into effect.\n"The county is trying to work as closely as possible with the city in order to create proper regulations," said George Hegeman, Health Board president.\nThe decision to amend Monroe County's 1993 no-smoking ordinance was introduced by commissioners and carried out by the county health board, in an effort to make the air healthier for anyone in a public place who has the right to breathe. The ordinance also attempted to combat the dangers of secondhand smoke. But opponents argue the ban would violate smokers' personal rights.\nBob Schmidt, Monroe County health administrator, said most individuals generally support the idea to prohibit smoking.\n"It's very simple," Schmidt said. "Healthy people are happier and it is our obligation to take measures to restrict exposure for people who don't want to smoke."\nAccording to Hegeman, prior research from the state health board found that about 30 percent of adults in southern Indiana smoke. The research also indicated that Indiana is the third highest state in the country for smokers.\n"Secondhand smoke is a huge concern," Hegeman said. "It's the equivalent of smoking with a little less of a dose. For every 10 people who die of lung cancer, it was found that one person who doesn't smoke dies of the same disease just by being in a smoking environment."\nHegeman said the health board will continue to work for the ordinance. He is optimistic the ban will pass in May. \n"Other counties and states are trying to do the same thing," Hegeman said. "It's just a matter of time before many other areas will go smoke-free"
(04/10/03 5:06am)
Beer drinkers from all around the country will unite tonight and tomorrow as Big Red Liquors puts on the largest and most highly-attended beer festival in the Midwest for the 10th time.\nThe beer festival will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Monroe County Convention Center, where attendees can sample over 200 domestic, import and micro-brew products and mingle with brew masters and company representatives from all over the Midwest.\n"Instead of spending too much money at the bars, the event is designed to allow people to try as much as they want of all different kinds of beer," said Chris Ludy, manager of Big Red Liquors on College Avenue.\nBig Red Liquors has been in the Bloomington community for over 25 years. The first beer festival, nine years ago, was introduced by a group of workers who wanted to offer the town a festive outlet for drinking beer.\n"The festival was originally a one-day event," Rob Williamson, promotions director for Big Red Liquors, said. "As attendance rose over the years, it was changed to a two-day event."\nWilliamson said attendees can visit 47 tables with up to eight different types of beer per table. Prizes ranging from wakeboards to neon signs from distributors and other local businesses will be raffled off throughout the evenings. \n"Everyone can expect a fun, laid-back atmosphere and a good time," Williamson said.\nA taxicab phone table will also be set up for people who need assistance getting home. Ludy said several police officers will attend the event, and people can expect to show two forms of photo identification.\n"Big Red is notoriously known for busting people with fake IDs," Williamson said. "If at all possible, we will be even stricter in this event."\nAs state law mandates, proceeds from the event go to a different local organization each year. This year's profits will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington, in support of its Smart Moves program, which raises awareness about safety, drugs, alcohol and tobacco. Last year, the beer festival raised over $10,000, which will be the monetary goal this year, for WonderLab.\n"Although drinking goes against our beliefs, we are going to make good use of the money," Joe Stebbins, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club, said. "The children who are participating in the program are going to put a different spin on it by encouraging people to drink sensibly and to not drink and drive."\nBig Red Liquors has one of the largest selections of beer, spirits and wine in southern Indiana and Bloomington. Customers often come from over 200 miles away because of Big Red's wide array of products. \nTickets for the festival are available at all Big Red Liquors locations as well as online at www.bigredliquors.com. Presale tickets for tonight are $20 or $25 at the door. Friday night advance tickets are $25 and $30 at the door.\n"A six-pack of beer can cost up to $10," Williamson said. "This is a huge opportunity to treat yourself nice, while your money goes to a good cause"
(04/09/03 4:37am)
Bloomington tenants can voice their concerns to City Council about reoccurring problems with their landlords tonight at 7:30 p.m. at 401 N. Morton St. The meeting is coordinated by the Student Legal Services in an effort to improve rental properties in Bloomington. \n"We are seeking to make significant changes to the housing code," John Irvine, director of SLS said. "Through this protest meeting, we want to make it clear that property should be properly maintained by landlords, and tenants should not be charged for their lack of maintenance. It is their job to perform routine maintenance such as painting walls or cleaning carpets."\nIrvine said SLS has fought to bring this issue to elected officials for more than seven years. Of the 4,000 cases the SLS has each year, at least 40 percent are landlord-tenant problems.\n"Everyone is against bringing justice to this matter," Irvine said. "The mayor, city attorney and the university are all opposed to dealing with this issue. They need to realize that this happens all over the community."\nIrvine said many residents are often overcharged by their landlords for items that tend to break after a period of normal use. Some of the proposed changes to the housing code would include specified duties and responsibilities so tenants are responsible for routine cleaning, such as picking up garbage and mopping and vacuuming floors. Landlords would be held responsible for cleaning and maintenance between tenancies, such as shampooing carpets and washing windows. \n"It's my job to make sure the environment is liveable, and its their job to make sure it stays that way," said Charles Sinn, owner of seven rooming houses near campus.\nIf his tenants bring damage to his attention he was unaware of, he says he doesn't hold it against them when he decides whether to refund their damage deposit.\n"If the tenants were to bring something to my attention that I missed, I put it back on the contract," he said.\nThe proposal would also hold landlords responsible for maintaining exterior areas of the property in a clean, safe and sanitary condition.\n"It's a controversial issue," Irvine said. "People need to come and stand up for themselves as renters."\nNeal Wizig, sophomore and University Commons resident, said his landlords tried to charge him for broken window neither he nor his roommates damaged.\n"People outside playing volleyball broke the front window," Wizig said. "It wasn't fixed for two months because the owners said it was our responsibility to make sure the windows didn't break."\nWizig said although the window was eventually fixed and replaced for free, he was frustrated that it took so long.\n"The entire situation was a pain," he said. "(Owners) tried to tell us that it was impossible for a volleyball to break a window."\nAngie Stewart, property manager of the University Commons, said tenants are obligated to keep their property in the same condition it was when they moved in, and it should be kept up to standard living conditions by the owners.\n"We do our best to respond to service work orders and cordially inspect apartments," Stewart said. "If we notice something broken, we fix it and charge the tenants with replacement when an item is deliberately broken."\nThe proposed change would also clarify an existing state law which requires a move in/move out inspection form, listing items inspected by both the landlord and tenant so they have a mutual understanding of the property conditions at the beginning and end of a lease.\n"We give tenants an itemized list of what we charge for with pictures and receipts," Stewart said. "We really stress joint move out inspections, but only about half of the tenants choose to take advantage of it."\nThe final vote will take place at 7:30 p.m. April 16 at City Hall. Tenants should plan on speaking publicly tonight.\n"We finally forced this issue," Irvine said. "Now it's time for everyone to come out and protest"
(04/03/03 5:02am)
While driving through Bloomington, one can't help but notice the patches of bare pavement blocked off by flourescent orange cones and the large signs that read "caution: road work ahead." After such a destructive winter, drivers are now faced with the hassle of Bloomington's major construction projects.\nThe most obvious sites for repair are College Mall Road, the area just north of 17th Street between College Avenue and Walnut Street and the intersection of Sixth Street and College Avenue. \nThe widening of College Mall Road, which began in the summer of 2001, has forced many students to take alternate routes to their off-campus residences. The proposed project involves the widening of College Mall Road from north of Moores Pike, the reconstruction of Second Street at the College Mall Road intersection and overall road construction with an addition of grass medians and multi-use pathways, according to the city of Bloomington Engineering Department. \n"The construction, which cost over $6 million, is a complete remodel of College Mall Road," Sam Dean, project coordinator and engineer for the city of Bloomington said. "When the project is complete, hopefully by July, residents will see a new sewer system and better facilities for bikes and pedestrians."\nAnalyses performed by the city last year indicated a strong need for the project, due to high traffic volumes caused by the commercial development around the mall area. The reconstruction of College Mall Road will improve traffic conditions by adding additional travel lanes and widening the curbs and sidewalks.\n"The pavement was in poor condition and the road capacity was not very ideal for most circumstances. In addition, the storm water had a tendency to flood the road," Dean said. "A lot of different needs put together gave this project a high priority."\nDespite the cold winter weather, Dean said there were no major delays in the project. However, many local residents have had to face high volumes of traffic on the one-lane road. \n"All intersecting roads have been closed at some point in this project," Dean said. "Despite all of the heavy construction, we have a very good working relationship with residents and business owners."\nIn August 2004, the construction site located on College Avenue between Eighth and Ninth streets will be replaced by a $42 million development for student-living. The old ST Semicon plant was recently torn down to provide students with more off-campus living opportunities.\nRick Alexander, assistant manager of engineering, said that, when complete, the four-story building is expected to consist of at least 100 apartments and there is currently a waiting list for tenants.\n"This is one of the only construction projects that hasn't really affected traffic," Alexander said. "Parking might be difficult in the next few months, as many lots have been eliminated."\nAlexander said the engineers are required to meet with officials from the city on a regular basis. \n"If there are any public concerns, I can assure that they will be met right away in an appropriate manner," Alexander said. \nAlthough Alexander said traffic isn't posing a problem, the area on Ninth Street between College Avenue and Morton will close, in addition to the lane nearest the construction site.\nBloomington-based Weddle Bros. is the general contractor for this two-year project.\n"Smallwood Plaza is creating a major private investment in our downtown," said Mayor John Fernandez in a statement. "This project is bringing much needed residential housing into the core of our city."\nThe long reconstruction of Miller Showers Park, located alongside College Avenue and Walnut Street between 17th Street and the Highway 46 Bypass, began over a year ago and is expected to be complete next November, said Dave Williams, Bloomington's operations director.\nThe renovation project is a cooperative effort between the Parks and Recreation Department, Public Works Department and the Utilities Department. The improvements to the park include a scenic entrance, landscaping with native trees, a new lighting system, areas for waterfalls, benches, hard surface trails and pedestrian and bicycle pathways.\nWilliams said the project was delayed an additional two months, due to the unsafe working conditions from the winter's weather.\n"We truly appreciate the public's patience," he said. "The outcome will be well worth the wait."\nThe $4 million project will also improve the quality of storm water by creating ponds to filter out sediment, bacteria and debris. Williams said the water had a tendency to often "race through the park in a highly erosive manner."\nTraffic on 17th Street near the site has recently been one lane only. William attributes this to the storm water piping and sewer system reroute to College and Walnut streets. \n"The worst of the disruption is over," Williams said. "Soon, the public will see this ugly construction site transform into a beautiful park, and an entryway into our town"
(04/01/03 4:35am)
Many club sports teams were forced to find a new home for practices and games after the Division of Recreational Sports announced in November it was closing Woodlawn Field for renovations. The reopening was set for this spring, but improvements have not yet been made.\nJackie Puterbaugh, associate director of RecSports, said constant use of the field through sports, concerts and parking led to its deterioration. Puterbaugh said a field expert evaluated the conditions last semester and attributed the problems partly to a poor irrigation system, soil, lighting and a number of large patches throughout the field.\n"A combination of activities began to take their toll on the field," Puterbaugh said. "It was a general consensus that the field was no longer safe after reported injuries."\nThe $1.3 million plan to renovate Woodlawn Field was presented to the University more than two years ago and was approved last semester. Under the proposed plan, the major areas for correction would include fixing the tremendous slope, putting new soil on the field and installing a proper irrigation system, Puterbaugh said.\nDave Hurst, manager of Campus Division, said the field needs a "substantial amount of development" as a result of all the wear and tear from various activities. Hearst said if the weather cooperates, the field will most likely reopen in two weeks.\n"We are doing everything we can to get the field up and running as quickly and as efficiently as possible, but we just can't control the weather," Puterbaugh said. "Our goal is to begin working on the improvements this week and reopen on April 14."\nThe field is home to eight club sports teams, all of which have had to find alternate space for practice. \nEmily Neumann, member of the Ultimate Frisbee team, said she is frustrated because nothing has been done to improve the field.\n"The entire project is one big hassle," Neumann said. "We have important tournaments coming up, and because Jordan Field has no lights, our practices have been much shorter."\nNeumann said she understands the field was in dire need of improvement, but she is tired of waiting for a place to practice.\nSophomore soccer player Bryan Shade said he is getting impatient waiting for the field to be completed. Shade said the soccer team has had to practice in a number of different fields, as opposed to just one.\n"Woodlawn Field is such a central location for everyone," Shade said. "It will be nice when the improvements are made."\nSgt. Brian Dombeck, of the ROTC, said Woodlawn Field has always been used for physical training and drill ceremonies practice. Following the closing of the field, the ROTC relocated behind the military science building and Armstrong Stadium.\n"It was fairly easy for us to move to another place," Dombeck said. "For others that regularly use Woodlawn Field, it might have been more challenging."\nPuterbaugh said the entire project is a "double-edged sword."\n"On one hand, people are upset about the poor conditions," Puterbaugh said. "On the other, they want the field to open right away. These types of projects take a lot of time and money, and the horrendous winter weather set us back"
(03/28/03 5:25am)
Students and community members are taking steps and striding to combat homelessness through Bloomington's first annual 5-kilometer walk. The rain or shine event will begin 2 p.m. Sunday at Third Street Park and is part of a six walk series scheduled to take place in regions throughout Indiana.\nThe 5K walk is organized by Homeward Bound, a collaboration of local homeless service providers who collect money and raise awareness for the fight against homelessness in Indiana. The event is designed to support non-profit agencies who are dedicated to providing citizens with affordable housing services. The local organizations include: Amethyst House, the Center For Behavioral Health, Indiana Legal Services, Inc., Middle Way House, Shalom Community Center, Shelter Inc. and South Central Community Action Program. \n"Anyone can walk," Damian Dittmer, case manager at Shelter, Inc. said. "There is no fee for teams or individual walkers, but everyone is encouraged to collect sponsors."\nTeams and individual volunteers can register for the event the day of the walk, or online at www.homelesswalks.org. Walkers who register through the Web site can designate the charity their money will go to or chose to donate to the general pot, which will be totaled and split among the organizations. \nMichael DeNunzio, co-chairman of the 5K walk, said he hopes the event will attract more volunteers to local organizations. \n"Almost all of the agencies that contribute to Bloomington will be there," DeNunzio said. "Our town is known for its strong volunteerism and this will be a great opportunity to raise money for a good cause."\nStephanie LaFontaine, development specialist at the Center For Behavioral Health, encourages all Bloomington residents to participate in the event. LaFontaine said entertainment such as puppet shows and music will be provided along the route.\n"It's a well-established fact that we live in a county with the highest rent and lowest wages," LaFontaine said. "Residents should take this opportunity to bring attention and outreach to those who are not yet getting help."\nThe Volunteer Students Bureau will contribute to the event by serving as a liaison between the programming committee and the IU population, recruiting students and organizations to form walking teams. \n"This is ultimately a collaborative effort between the campus and the community at large to try and give back to Bloomington," said Erin Erwin, graduate assistant for the VSB. "The goal for all of the regions is to raise $100,000 for each walk, and I think we can do it."\nAccording to recent surveys conducted by the Shalom Community Center, it is estimated Monroe County averages 4,000 homeless people each year, and more than 300,000 Hoosiers have been at risk for homelessness at some point in their lives. The average length of stay for an individual at any of Monroe County's emergency shelters is six weeks and eight weeks for a family. Seventy-eight percent of the persons served in area shelters are local residents.\n"It's important to raise awareness about the growing homeless population around the area," Dittmer said. "Who can place a value on one of the most basic human needs -- having a home"
(03/12/03 5:09am)
Singer John Mellencamp's new song "To Washington" isn't only raising questions about the nation's history and possible war with Iraq; it's also raising controversy among listeners.\nThe lyrics of "To Washington" begin in the years of the Clinton Administration, express frustration over the 2000 Election controversy and criticize the current actions of President Bush.\n"I think the song is relevant, irrespective of the ticking of a 'war clock'," Mellencamp said in a statement.\nThe album isn't scheduled for release until mid-May, but some students have already downloaded the song for free from Mellencamp's Web site.\n"The song is so powerful because it's not a subliminal message at all," sophomore Cassandra Cogswell said. "(Mellencamp) is definitely getting his point across and forcing Americans to face the reality of war."\nAlthough a long-time fan of Mellencamp, sophomore Scott Larson said he was somewhat offended by the song.\n"If Mellencamp is supposed to be a heartland singer, it seems hypocritical that he doesn't see the need to go to war," Larson said.\nSince the Sept. 11 attacks, many other musicians have released songs that take sides against the president and government. Some of these artists include Steve Earle ("Amerika v. 6.0"), Ani DiFranco ("Self Evident"), Toby Keith ("Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue"), Pearl Jam ("Bushleauger") and Daryl Worley ("Have you Forgotten?").\n"The song doesn't accurately reflect what's going on because Mellencamp isn't asking any valid questions," Larson said.\nMellencamp, originally from Seymour, Ind., has compiled 10 platinum or multi-platinum albums, 21 top 20 singles, was the recipient of the 2001 Billboard Century Award and has sold more than 25 million albums throughout his career. \nIn his more recent performances, Mellencamp has expressed his anti-war sentiment by projecting an Albert Einstein quotation on the main screen which reads "You cannot simultaneously prevent and prepare for war."\nSkip Sluder, editor of the music program for the School of Music, said he believes musicians have the right to express their personal concerns and desires about the war. Sluder also said music has the power to reach everyone, anywhere.\n"Music speaks to the very basic emotions of all human beings in so many different ways," Sluder said. \n"What is the thought process, to take a human's life, what would be the reason, to think this is right" expresses Mellencamp in "To Washington," which can be downloaded for free at his Web site, www.mellencamp.com.
(03/07/03 3:31pm)
Carnaval may have just ended in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but here in Bloomington things are about to get hot. \nThe Brazilian Student Association at IU is hosting its own Carnaval tonight at Vertigo, 107 W. Ninth St. It will be packed full of exotic eye candy, Brazilian music and non-stop dancing. For the BAIU, the Carnaval is one of the most anticipated events of the year. One of the many coordinators of the event Vania de Castro, Spanish and Portuguese professor, says this year the Carnaval is special.\n"It is special this year, with live music and in a different place from years before," she said.\nIn the past, the celebration was usually held at Second Story, but this year the change of venue is more suitable for the event.\n"It usually lasts until closing," said Culata Band member and Italian instructor Valeria De Castro. "Second story closed at 2 and Vertigo closes at 3 a.m."\nThere will be a big screen TV showing the two-day parade in Rio de Janeiro. The parade is one of the most popular carnaval events in Brazil. This is the second time since the Bloomington celebration began that live music will be available at the event.\n"The live music and band practicing all the time gave us the incentive to plan for the event this year," De Castro said. "It's hard to find people to play live Brazilian music, so to have a live band is exciting."\nThe live band she is talking about is the Culata Band, made up of several professors and students of both Brazilian and U.S. descent. De Castro said the live band adds something special to this year's event.\n"We did not have carnaval for the first time in 12 years last year," De Castro said. "This time we had to come back with a bang."\nThe Culata Band consists of eight members and will be playing a wide range of Brazilian music. They will be playing Frevo, Samba, Samba reggae, Xote, marcha-naucho and Baiao.\nVania Castro said she appreciates the live Brazilian music.\n"Live music gives it a better taste," she said. "It is nice to see a mixture of American and Brazilian people making music."\nFor many of the band members, it is their first time playing for a carnaval. \nMaria Christina Eisen, an IU senior and band member said she is excited. \n"It is the biggest thing I've ever done," she said. \nBecause of her diverse background -- she's half Jewish and half Brazilian, she grew up listening to the kind of music she now plays.\nCastro, along with other band members, is expecting a big crowd. Everyone hopes to match the high attendance in the past.\n"Every year we have between 200 and 400 people," Valeria De Castro said. "One year, we had over 600."\nThe organizers expect people from Wisconsin, Chicago and Indianapolis to travel to Bloomington for the event. The crowd is usually mixed with many Latinos, but also includes a lot of Americans.\n"A lot of Americans like this kind of party," De Castro said.\nThis is a great opportunity to meet new people, or to get to know people, Castro said.\n"You always make a link," she said. "It is a great time and everyone is relaxed. It is a good time to become closer to people you know."\nCastro also encourages people to wear costumes.\n"We usually wear costumes," she said. "Some Brazilians do so for tradition."\nCarnaval costumes are usually flamboyant and include political costumes, funny costumes, sexy costumes and skeletons.\n"They are not like Halloween costumes," Castro said. "In Brazil, the costumes are very political; if it were here, you would see 300 Bush's running around."\nThe costumes are usually masked with a lot of glitter and feathers for women. Men's costumes include brightly colored soccer club shirts and face paint. If people don't have costumes, Castro encourages people to wear something bright or yellow.\n"It is very common for men to dress as women and women to dress as men," Castro said.\nAlong with the celebration tonight, the BAIU will also host a children's carnaval Sunday. The carnival will include Brazilian games, music and activities for kids.\nThe event starts at 10 p.m with the showing of the actual Rio de Janeiro Carnaval video. The Culata band plays at 11 p.m. Admission is for those over 21 and $7 with a valid ID. For more information, call 360-0049.
(03/07/03 3:23pm)
Thanks to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and the Indiana Department of Commerce, Bloomington's trash will be converted into treasure over and over again.\nLast week, the IDEM announced it will award $50,000, for the second consecutive year to the city of Bloomington's recycling program. Part of the money will fund the purchase of a new truck for the city's curbside recycling program. An additional $5,000 from the IDOC was also donated to Bloomington for new recycling bins composed of partially recycled material.\n"These organizations realized that our city was actively promoting recycling," Toni McClure, deputy director of public works for the City of Bloomington said. "Our citizens are very committed to recycling, and we hope that the grants will inspire more residents to take part in recycling."\nMcClure said the grant will also allow the city to develop a two stream recycling program, which enables residents to sort recyclables into two distinct categories; paper materials, and containers.\n"Recycling will take less time, and it won't be so difficult to separate all products into separate bins," McClure said.\nCurrently, the IDEM is allotting $307,698 in recycling grants to help communities, organizations and schools reduce, reuse and recycle materials otherwise headed to landfills. In its history, the IDEM has awarded over $20 million through grant programs across the state.\n"These grants represent an investment in Indiana's environment," Lori Kaplan, IDEM commissioner said in a statement. "The communities who have earned the grants are already doing great things to reduce waste and to encourage citizens to get involved in reducing, reusing and recycling. This money will help them expand those efforts." \nThe Monroe County Solid Waste Management District also benefited from the recycling grants program, receiving $2,643 towards their Green Business recycling program. Melissa Kriegerfox, recycling and reuse director for Monroe County said although the grant will not have a dramatic effect on the community, it will decrease the overall costs of the program, and time and money can go elsewhere.\n"We have two truck drivers that collect recycling from 72 businesses and schools in this community," Kriegerfox said. "The cart-tipper will allow one person to dump the material, and we will be able to process it more efficiently and save warehouse space." \nPenni Sims, community director for the City of Bloomington, said she hopes the grants will allow the city to provide more convenient services for residents who regularly recycle. As of 2001, the City of Bloomington found that 52 percent of residents recycle on a regular basis.\n"It's very important that we try to reduce and reuse our trash," Sims said. "When we recycle, there is less in landfills, which makes our community and environment a better place"
(03/03/03 6:25am)
Bloomington residents will come together over issues of social importance for the next few weeks. Dr. Jorge Chapa, professor and director of Latino Studies at IU, will present the first of five lectures for the Monday Night Justice Series tonight.\nThe aim of the lecture series is to reach and engage as much of the Bloomington community as possible in the discussion of social justice issues. The five lecturers will each present a public forum for discussion on different matters that are relevant to the community.\n"The Monday Night Justice Series is a strong effort to bring the town and the University together over issues concerning everyone," said Marc Haggerty, director of publicity for the event. "It's a really good sign that these professors want to reach out to the community."\nEach lecture will begin at 7 p.m. at Boxcar Books on 310 S. Washington St. The lecture will last an hour, and the second hour will consist of focused discussion on the topic covered by the lecture and miscellaneous background readings. Haggerty said Boxcar Books is a prime location for the event because the store contains thousands of books on social justice that are not available at the library.\n"We hope that those who attend the lectures will take advantage of their huge selection of literature relevant to each topic," he said.\nChapa, who will address issues of Latino labor, immigration and education, said he encourages a wide array of community members to attend the lecture, as he will speak of problems that touch everyone.\n"There are about 8 million undocumented immigrants in the United States," Chapa said. "This de facto system has been strained in recent years and seems to have come to a breaking point since Sept. 11. My discussion will focus on the current situation and how it can be improved."\nJudge Steve Russell, associate professor of criminal justice, will present a lecture on Native American identity on Mar. 17. Russell said he is eager to participate in the lecture series in the hope of making the community aware of the "vanishing Indian" myth.\n"I want to point out disconnections between how American Indians define themselves and how they are defined by law and popular culture," Russell said.\nHaggerty said although each lecture specifically targets particular members of the community, he urges anyone who is interested in discussing problems facing all individuals to attend.\n"We want to give everyone an opportunity to associate with other people that are interested in grass routes democracy," Haggerty said.\nOther lecturers scheduled to speak in the Monday Night Justice Series are Dr. Stephanie Kane, Dr. Amy Reynolds and Dr. John Stanfield. Background information on the topics can be found by visiting www.boxcarbooks.org.
(02/25/03 4:39am)
Skateboarders in Bloomington edged closer to getting their own park, as the Parks and Recreation Department and the architectural firm of Lawrence Moss & Associates of Glendale, Calif., presented the city with the first conceptual design of the park Friday.\nThe city announced last month it will begin the design phase of the 15,000 square foot skate park at Upper Cascades Park and Golf Course. The addition will feature courses for both street and transition skateboarding, complete with ramps and rails, and is expected to be completed this fall.\nLocal skateboarders and community members evaluated the plans for the skate park with representatives from the firm via conference call. Although many were pleased with the complexity of the course, the need for more improvement was the overall consensus. \n"The architects need to get a clear focus on who they are building the course for," sophomore Justin Busch, who has been skateboarding for three years said. "I would like to see more of a street course."\nJulie Ramey, community relations manager for Bloomington Parks and Recreation, said the city chose Lawrence Moss & Associates to design the park because of their experience and good reputation in constructing skate parks in Indiana. \n"The firm is going to take the community's suggestions and try to better the plan," Ramey said. "They are trying their best to put together a facility that is safe, durable, usable and something that everyone can enjoy."\nThe proposal to build a skate park in Bloomington was introduced by local skateboarders over four years ago. However, the final decision to build the park was originally put on hold because of strong opposition from the community. \n"We are just relieved that the plans for the park are finally taking shape," Busch said. "It was a long battle to get the park, and we finally won."\nGuinness Ohehout, manager at Desuma Skate Shop, is not optimistic about the skate park, he said. Ohenhout said he does not expect the skate park to open in the near future because the concrete has a tendency to crack with the cold temperatures.\n"Bloomington shut down a skate park a few years ago because it started to fall apart," Ohenhout said. "If the city wants to make this park last, they shouldn't make the same mistakes."\nRamey said the design firm is expected to take the community suggestions into consideration when constructing a new model. The firm will then present their improved plan to local residents to gain approval. Ramey said the park will be complete by early October.\n"The architects need to cater to everyone's needs," Ohenhout said. "If they don't, it will be a long time before Bloomington sees a skate park"
(02/20/03 4:53am)
Best Buy, the nation's top electronics retailer, may face many obstacles before coming to Bloomington. \nAs a result of the community's negative response, Best Buy's two- year effort to build a store in Bloomington is being put on hold. The construction of Best Buy raised community concerns regarding traffic problems and the possible relocation of many local businesses.\n"We have had several complaints about access drives, road layout and the building site," Pat Shay, development manager for the city of Bloomington said. "The planning committee is doing everything in their power to ensure everyone's happiness."\nBest Buy is requesting a location near South Williamsburg Drive, just west of Barnes & Noble and between Arby's and St. Mark's United Methodist Church, at 30,000 square feet. If constructed, Best Buy would replace Bloomington Auto Tech and small plaza home to Sunshine Travel, Beijing Chinese Restaurant, Monarch Salon and Deckard Insurance. While the stores in the plaza will all be removed, Autotech is working with the planning commission for a relocation plan. \nShay said that if Best Buy is approved at the next city council meeting on Mar. 10, the Bloomington Plan Commission will have to decide whether to construct new connecting roadways to combat traffic. \n"Best Buy triggers the construction of much needed roads to ease traffic on Third Street and College Mall Road," Shay said. \nThe possible solutions to the traffic problems include the extension of Longview Drive, a road that directly connects Pete Ellis Drive to 45/46.\nDespite community concerns, Steve Brehob, project manager for Smith Neubecker and Associates, said Best Buy is generally successful in college towns, and he is sure the Bloomington market is strong enough to make Best Buy successful.\n"Best Buy is a national retailer that did not have a store remotely close to Bloomington," Brehob said. "We fully anticipate the plan will be approved at the next meeting."\nSophomore Lauren Staggs said having a Best Buy in Bloomington will be convenient for students who frequently have computer problems or need last minute items.\n"Best Buy has low prices on anything a college student wants," Staggs said. "I'm sure Best Buy will survive in Bloomington because overall, it is a strong market industry."\nBrehob said if Best Buy is approved at the next planning commission meeting scheduled for Mar. 10, they expect it to be open by early October.\n"The problem was never about Best Buy's presence in Bloomington," Brehob said. "Putting together all parties and landowners has been an ongoing challenge"
(02/11/03 5:08am)
While this winter's heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures confined many people to indoor warmth, others reveled in the perfect conditions for the third annual Snow Box Derby.\nHeld Feb. 8 and 9 at "Tubes Are Us," located at 2887 St. Road 46 W, the event drew a crowd of more than 250 people to the slopes. The Snow Box Derby was sponsored by the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department and was first introduced as a way to present the community with more family-oriented activities.\n"The derby is an interesting and imaginative event that offers the community a great opportunity to work together," said Julie Ramey, community relations manager at the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department. "It also gives everyone a chance to have fun in the snow."\nThe Snow Box Derby challenged participants to use their imagination and creativity by constructing their own racers using only cardboard, tape, paint, glue. Metals of any kind were not permitted. The snow boxes were also required to be no more than six feet wide, and hold their racers entirely, feet first.\n"We saw everything from a slab of cardboard to pretty elaborate creations such as the Pentagon and Sponge Bob Square Pants," Ramey said.\nThe Snow Box Derby was split into individual, family and business categories. The winners had the fastest combined time after two runs down the green and blue slopes. Trophies were also awarded first and second place in each category, as well as for the most creative sled.\nUnited Rentals, who took second place in last year's business category, spent over a month constructing the perfect snow box for this year. Bob Allen, manager of United Rentals, said the company was relieved to finally to win with its "skid steer's" fastest time of 6.30 seconds.\n"We will definitely be back next year," Allen said. "The Snow Box Derby is a great way for area businesses to get to know each other on a more personal level."\nThe Hoosier Hills Food Bank also participated in this year's derby for the second time. Dan Taylor, assistant director at the food bank said his staff spent countless hours constructing their snow box designed to resemble a prehistoric shark.\n"We still have yet to win," Taylor said. "We are determined to get better and to win a trophy next winter."\nRamey said the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department was satisfied with the overall turnout, despite the unusually cold temperatures.\n"Our ultimate goal in holding the Snow Box Derby was for people to be safe and have fun," Ramey said. "In that respect, we were 110 percent successful"
