Practice News Story 11: Accident

Van Rolls Killing Ten

Posted 6:00 p.m. MST, April 19, 2007

TREMONTON, Utah – Yesterday at about 4 p.m. a van carrying 11 passengers rolled on Interstate 84 killing ten. The 11 passengers consisted of ten Utah State University students and Professor Evan Parker. The group was heading home after a field trip to Greenline Implements, a farm implement store in Tremonton. Four survivors at the scene were later transported to surrounding hospitals where three were declared dead.

Kyle Holden, witness and owner of the implement store, said that Evan Parker was driving at the time. Holden was passing the van when he saw the driver side rear tire blow out. After the tire blew, Parker tried to gain control of the vehicle but failed to do so. Jennie Smith, witness who was behind the van called 911. “I saw bodies in the air … they were three times the height of the van.”

Lt. Ed Michaud, first authority on the scene said that it appeared that no one was wearing their seatbelts at the time of the wreck. "Bodies were all over the place," said Michaud.

Utah State University President Stan Albrecht said that today’s accident was a “tragedy for our institution.” He also said that a memorial service will be held.

Practice News Story 10: Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Clear Point Instruction Now In Cache Valley
Posted 11:30 p.m. MST, April 5, 2007

Clear Point Instruction
1501 Highland Drive
North Logan, UT 84321
Info@clearpontinstruction.com
435.521.8964

LOGAN, UT - Clear Point Instruction, a new healthcare company is coming to Cache Valley. They specialize in the design and development of instructional products and patient education services for healthcare organizations. Clear Point Instruction products and services help healthcare organizations meet the national patient safety goals and accreditation standards set by the Join Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO).

The services and products that Clear Point Instruction offers include print materials, DVD videos, and web-based simulations. These services can be specialized to fit anyone's needs.

President, Mary Ann Parlin, and Vice Presidents, Preston Parker, Daren Olson, and Andrea Bell lead Clear Point Instruction.

Taylor Crane
123 My Address
Nibleton, AZ
fake_email@suckit.com
420.888.6969

The Real Practice News Story 9 #2: Investigative

Posted 10:30 p.m. MST, March 29, 2007
Gates, Turner, Africa, Trouble?

Africa – While enjoying my appletini on my long awaited trip to Africa searching for bare-breasted native women that are so prevalent in National Geographic Magazine, I witnessed Bill and Melinda Gates exit a private jet with Ted Turner, who then met with local African officials.

Why would two media competitor giants be with each other in Africa? Biological warfare? Interest in buying Africa? Or just another trendy philanthropic donation to the motherland? I wanted answers, and I went searching.

After cornering Bill and Melinda in their tiki-hut hotel suite, I hammered them with question."We are working together," said Bill, referring to him and Turner. It does involve the World Health Organization, he later stated. We want to raise the quality of life and the quality of health, Bill said. "We feel Africa is the most logical place to be." Gates, who is stepping down as Chairman of Microsoft Corporation in 2008 to donate his full attention to his foundation also said, "This is not going to be a small effort."

Melik Ok, local mayor in Africa, met with Turner and the Gates. "We talked about opportunities between their goals and my people," said Ok. "My people don't need fish, they need to learn how to fish." Ok also said that he and the Gates have met on several occasions, most recently as of Wednesday, March 21.

Director General of WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan, who has worked with the Gates on numerous occasions said that no deal yet has been made. "I think the generosity of philanthropists … is facilitating the programs that we have right now. It makes my organization effective and worthwhile."

Whether or not some huge organization or movement is on the horizon in Africa fueled by the Gates, Turner, and the WHO, we will have to wait and see. But there is one thing that is for sure, i it does happen, I'll be reporting.

Practice News Story 9 # 2: Investigative

Posted 10:30 p.m. MST, March 29, 2007
Gates, Turner, Africa, Trouble?

While enjoying my appletini on my long awaited trip to Africa searching for bare-breasted native women that are so prevalent in National Geographic Magazine, I witnessed Bill and Melinda Gates exit a private jet with Ted Turner, who then met with local African officials.

Why would two media competitor giants be with each other in Africa? Biological warfare? Interest in buying Africa? Or just another trendy philanthropic donation to the motherland? I wanted answers, and I went searching.

After cornering Bill and Melinda in their tiki-hut hotel suite, I hammered them with question."We are working together," said Bill, referring to him and Turner. It does involve the World Health Organization, he later stated. We want to raise the quality of life and the quality of health, Bill said. "We feel Africa is the most logical place to be." Gates, who is stepping down as Chairman of Microsoft Corporation in 2008 to donate his full attention to his foundation also said, "This is not going to be a small effort."

Melik Ok, local mayor in Africa, met with Turner and the Gates. "We talked about opportunities between their goals and my people," said Ok. "My people don't need fish, they need to learn how to fish." Ok also said that he and the Gates have met on several occasions, most recently as of Wednesday, March 21.

Director General of WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan, who has worked with the Gates on numerous occasions said that no deal yet has been made. "I think the generosity of philanthropists … is facilitating the programs that we have right now. It makes my organization effective and worthwhile."

Whether or not some huge organization or movement is on the horizon in Africa fueled by the Gates, Turner, and the WHO, we will have to wait and see. But there is one thing that is for sure, i it does happen, I'll be reporting.

Practice News Story 9: Investigative

Posted 3:47 p.m. MST, March 28, 2007
Gates, Turner, Africa, Trouble?

While on my long awaited trip to Africa searching for bare-breasted native women that are so prevalent in National Geographic, I witnessed Bill and Melinda Gates exiting a jet plane with Ted Turner.
Why would two media competitor giants be with each other in Africa? Biological warfare? Interest in buying Africa? Or just another trendy donation to the motherland? I wanted answers, and went searching.
After cornering Bill and Melinda in their tiki-hut hotel suite, I hammered them with question.
"We are working together," said Bill, referring to him and Turner. It does involve the World Health Organization, he later stated. We want to raise the quality of life and the quality of health, Bill said. "We feel Africa is the most logical place to be."

Practice News Story 8: Sports

Posted 3:40 p.m. MST, March 22, 2007

Jazz Snatch Win against Clippers in Los Angeles

Los Angeles – In the final minutes of Utah’s 106-99 win over the Clippers Mehmet Okur came up again with another clutch three to seal the win to put the Jazz on a two game winning streak.

Along with Okur’s three he racked up 15 points and 13 rebounds. Fisher also had a double-double with 15 assists and 12 points. Boozer scored 22 points and 13 rebounds, while Millsap had 15 points and 7 rebounds.

“It’s fun to have energy like we had tonight,” said Derek Fisher.

From the beginning of the game the Clippers came out strong and took control of the game. But after the second half, the Jazz regrouped and outscored the Clippers by ten in the 3^rd quarter. After Okur’s three late in the 4^th quarter, the Jazz didn’t look back.

How well the Jazz do in the 3^rd quarter usually determines whether or not they win the game, said Marty Burns, sports analyst for Sports Illustrated. “The experience of Derek Fisher is what took them there.”

With only a few minutes left, tied at 97, Milsap set a screen for Okur at the top of the key. Fisher then dished it to Okur, who sank the three to seal the win. From there on the momentum the Jazz carried could not be stopped, even after an attempted three by Elton Brand to bring the Clippers within two. Elton Brand scored 33 points.

The Jazz play Memphis at home on Saturday and against Washington at home on Monday.

This is the Clippers first loss after a two game winning streak. They play Washington at home on Saturday, with a three day break following.

Practice News Story 8: Sports

Posted 3:40 p.m. MST, March 22, 2007

Jazz Snatch Win against Clippers in Los Angeles

Los Angeles – In the final minutes of Utah’s 106-99 win over the Clippers Mehmet Okur came up again with another clutch three to seal the win to put the Jazz on a two game winning streak.

Along with Okur’s three he racked up 15 points and 13 rebounds. Fisher also had a double-double with 15 assists and 12 points. Boozer scored 22 points and 13 rebounds, while Millsap had 15 points and 7 rebounds.

“It’s fun to have energy like we had tonight,” said Derek Fisher.

From the beginning of the game the Clippers came out strong and took control of the game. But after the second half, the Jazz regrouped and outscored the Clippers by ten in the 3^rd quarter. After Okur’s three late in the 4^th quarter, the Jazz didn’t look back.

How well the Jazz do in the 3^rd quarter usually determines whether or not they win the game, said Marty Burns, sports analyst for Sports Illustrated. “The experience of Derek Fisher is what took them there.”

With only a few minutes left, tied at 97, Milsap set a screen for Okur at the top of the key. Fisher then dished it to Okur, who sank the three to seal the win. From there on the momentum the Jazz carried could not be stopped, even after an attempted three by Elton Brand to bring the Clippers within two. Elton Brand scored 33 points.

The Jazz play Memphis at home on Saturday and against Washington at home on Monday.

This is the Clippers first loss after a two game winning streak. They play Washington at home on Saturday, with a three day break following.

Practice News Story 7: Business

Posted 4:45 p.m. MST, March 7, 2007
Google Makes Offer to Buy Time Warner

PALO ALTO, California – Today Google Inc. (charts) made a $50 billion hostile takeover bid to Time Warner Inc. (charts).
"This is a great opportunity," commented Eric Schmidt, CEO and chairman of Google. Google claims its offer is more than the estimated value of Time Warner. Schmidt also said that with this merger they want to make Time Warner and Google the merger AOL and Time Warner should have been.
Richard D. Parsons, CEO of Time Warner had no comment on whether or not Time Warner was interested. He did say that the offer was unexpected and that they are "taking this offer seriously."
The $50 billion will be broken up into $35 billion in stocks and $10 billion in cash. The rest of the $5 billion would cover Time Warner’s debt. Parsons said that the offer will be available for 30 days and that a decision will be made within that time.
Michael Powel, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission said that right now there is no reason to look into this offer. "It’s tough to say what would constitute as a monopoly," said Powel. "I’m hesitant to say yes."

Practice News Story #6: Speech

Posted 4:40 p.m. MST, Feb. 21, 2007
Lincoln Gives Speech in Gettysburg
GETTYSBURG, Pennsylvania – Yesterday President Lincoln gave a speech tilted the “Gettysburg Address” in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania in front of a crowd of 15,000 people. The speech dedicated the area as a national cemetery honoring fallen troops as well as outlined the President’s hopes and intentions for the Union.
The President’s somber attitude was projected through his words recalling the bloody battle that had taken place just four months earlier were 15,000 people died. “We can never forget what they did here,” said President Lincoln in his speech. “Engaged in a great civil war that that nation may live … these dead shall not die in vain.”
After his speech President Lincoln remarked how he felt it was inspired. “The words did not come easily. I felt guided in writing them.” President Lincoln was also optimistic saying, “[The war] is a difficult time for a nation … It will make us stronger … The time is short at hand, we will find a resolution.”
The cemetery will be built over the next five years.

The King is Dead

Posted: 11:30 p.m. MST Feb. 15, 2007
LOS ANGELES - On Feb. 14, 2007 the world famous singer and entertainer, Michael Joseph Jackson died of anesthesia complications during a breast augmentation procedure at the UCLA Medical Center in southern California at the age of 48. He was pronounced dead on the table at 11:37 a.m.
Michael was born on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana. He was the seventh of nine children. At the age of five, Michael began his enormously successful career. As a musician he first started with the Jackson 5, then the Jacksons, and finally his solo career that began in 1977.
Michael’s 1982 mega hit album Thriller has sold over 104 million copies and is still the number one selling album of all time. Michael has received a total of 13 Grammy Awards. Michael is also a double-inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, once as a member of the Jackson 5, and as a solo artist. Not only was Michael famous for his music, but also his dance moves including the moonwalk. The success Michael had over the years, particularly in the 80's and early 90's dubbed him the nickname "The King of Pop."
In 1993 Michael was accused of child molestation. Michael stood firm against the accusation and said that he was "totally innocent of any wrongdoing." He and the accuser settled outside of court. In 2003 similar high profile charges were brought up against Michael. In court, Michael was found not guilty of all charges and was acquitted.
Michael has been known for his charity services including his foundation, Heal the World and his countless efforts with children. During his life, Michael suffered from the condition known as vitiligo, as a result, Michael bleached his skin color. Upon his death Michael was preparing for a comeback album with a release date due in late 2007.
Michael Jackson is survived by his former wives Lisa Marie Presley, Debbie Rowe, his three children, his parents, Joseph and Katherine, his brothers Sigmund "Jackie", Toriano "Tito", Jermaine, Marlon, Steven "Randy", and sisters Rebbie, Janet, and La-Toya Jackson.
Michael has defiantly been a "Thriller" over the past five decades. His "Off the Wall" and "Beat It" lifestyle were heavily criticized, but he always stayed true to himself and that "Man in the Mirror". Critics questioned whether or not he was "Dangerous", "Bad", "Black of White", or even a "Smooth Criminal". But one thing is for sure, Michael’s legacy is "Invincible". Michael will be missed.

Practice News Story 4: Court

Posted: 4:15 p.m. MST, Feb. 7, 2007
Court Date Set for Suspected Burglars
LOGAN, Utah – The court date has been set for Jim Michaels and the minor who are suspects in the burglary of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel that occurred on Jan. 31. Two CPU’s were stolen and vandalism to the building happened that night. Judge Allen Mayfield has set the hearing for Michaels and the minor to go before the 1st Superior Court of Cache Valley on March 21.
According to Defense Attorney Robbie Cocheran, Michaels, a Logan resident, posted bond for $5,000. “With the evidence, we will show that our client is not guilty.”
District Attorney Noel Mayfield said the defendant could face six months to one year in jail, and up to a $5,000 fine on charges of misdemeanor breaking and entering, misdemeanor vandalism, and felony charges of burglary. Mayfield is confident in the evidence against Michaels including fingerprint, criminal history, and interviews.
Sheriff Deputy Jeffery Hasty took the suspects under custody on the afternoon of Feb. 3. The stolen CPU’s were found at a local pawnshop. The minor’s information has not been released and has not been charged.

Practice News Story 3: Crime

LOGAN Early morning on Jan. 31 a burglary occurred at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel located on 16th East and 900 North. Two CPU’s were stolen and two monitors were broken. There are no suspects at this time, but authorities believe it was most likely two juveniles.
Authorities said that the suspects crawled through an open window in Bishop Shirk’s office. Bishop Shirk said that he must have accidentally left the window open after a long night of interviews. Robert Knotz, physical management manager of the chapel discovered the burglary as he was doing his rounds early Wednesday morning.
Witness Evelyn Breathwaite, who lives across the street from the chapel, said she heard loud noises early that morning around 1:45 a.m. “I thought it was a garbage truck,” said Breathwaite. The computers taken from Shirk’s office did not contain any confidential information or church records. The estimated damage of the vandalism is $700.

Practice News Story 2: Fire

OGDEN On Tuesday January, 23 at about 2:00 PM a fire broke out at Pedro’s Restaurant on the corner of Washington Blvd and 21st Street.
“Looked like it was some grease,” said Pedro Sanchez, owner and cook, commenting on the cause of the fire. Sanchez was cooking hamburger meat when the fire broke out. Only two were in the restaurant at the time, Sanchez and friend, Michael Freeman, who was having lunch.
There was no damage to any surrounding buildings. Although the building is still standing the restaurant suffered excessive damage, and the two floors above it had smoke damage.
Sanchez’s brother Miguel and his two daughters were above the restaurant when the fire started. They were taken to Ogden Regional Hospital. According to EMT team leader Cpt. Rick Thompson, Miguel and his daughters had minor smoke inhalation and are going to be fine. Sanchez also walked away from the flames with minor burns on his hands.
Authorities were contacted by Freeman.

Practice News Story 1: Accident

TREMONTON On Wednesday, January 17 at about 4 PM a van carrying 11 passengers rolled on Interstate 84 west killing at least 4 people.
The 15 passenger Dodge van was full of Utah State Agriculture students headed home after a field trip to a farm implement store. Kyle Holden, the 31-year-old witness who had taken the students to his store said as he was passing the van he saw the driver side rear tire blowout. After the tire blew professor and driver Evan Parker tried to gain control of the vehicle but failed to do so. The van thereafter rolled. Holden was passing the van at 80-81 mph. “So they were [driving] less than that.”
Jennie Smith another witness who was following the van said, “All I saw was dust.” Smith was the second to arrive on the scene after Holden. Smith was carrying a cell phone and dialed 911.
Lt. Ed Machaud, first authority at the scene, said all of the 11 passengers were ejected. At least one survivor Robby Peterson was taken to an Ogden area hospital.

Dirty Little Secret

I still wet the bed.