Print edition for June 29, 2001

Fire on Caesars roof sends smoke billowing over Strip: Keith Paul; A propane tank exploded on the roof of Caesars Palace Thursday, injuring three people and sending a huge plume of black smoke into the air over the Strip.

Effort to expose nuke waste routes defeated: Benjamin Grove; WASHINGTON -- The House on Thursday shot down an amendment designed to pressure the Department of Energy to finalize transportation routes for the proposed Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository.

Sierra Pacific complains to feds about caps: Walt Higgins, chairman and chief executive officer of Sierra Pacific Resources Inc., the parent company of Nevada Power, has been meeting with federal government and state political leaders this week to explain how the bailout of California has affected Nevada and 10 other western states.

PCL box: Nashville-Las Vegas: DP -- Las Vegas 2. LOB -- Nashville 2, Las Vegas 7. 2B -- Redman, Cookson, Gil. 3B -- Prieto, Johnson. HR -- Prieto, Cotton.

Ex-nuke workers vent as claim forms explained: By Mary Manning; Radiation claims

Two builders fighting Regent settlement with contractor: Grace Leong; Two subcontractors in a legal dispute with the bankrupt Regent hotel-casino in Las Vegas are opposing its confidential settlement with a third subcontractor.

Sun Country, Mark may court National: Mark Travel Corp., one of the nation's largest wholesale travel companies and owner of Sun Country Airlines, is believed to be in negotiations to participate in the acquisition of bankrupt Las Vegas-based National Airlines, industry sources say.

Nevada electric controversies heat up: CARSON CITY -- The state's consumer advocate said Thursday he declined to join big casinos and mines in their quest for alternative power.

Former agent goes from FBI outcast to ally: Mike Levin's transformation from FBI outcast to star witness in the bureau's secrets-for-sale scandal occurred in fewer than 24 hours, according to criminal complaints unsealed in New York.

Business briefs for June 29, 2001: Three more executives have left Las Vegas-based software firm PurchasePro. The departures are part of an effort by the company to cut costs and restructure the business.

Hill headed for N.Y.: A spokesman for the U.S. Marshals Service said Hill was transported from the North Las Vegas Detention Center Thursday and flown to a federal holding facility in Oklahoma.

Teamsters candidate seeks probe of Vegas payments: David Strow; Delegates to the Teamsters Union's international convention nominated two candidates to head the powerful union for the next five years, as rhetoric between the two camps boiled over into a call for a criminal investigation involving a Las Vegas Teamsters local.

Suspects say poker a game of skill, not chance: The defense plans to bring an expert from Las Vegas and a statistician from the University of Akron to prove their point before Judge Elinore Marsh Stormer of Akron Municipal Court.

Venetian chooses Internet billing software: Jazz offers detailed analysis of guest Internet usage, revenue and billing information. The cost for the Venetian to use the software was not disclosed.

Zions CFO resigns: W. David Hemingway, a veteran executive at Zions, will serve as interim CFO until a permanent CFO is named.

TSA officer to take administrator post: John Plunkett, who oversees enforcement for the state agency that regulates buses, limousines, tow trucks and moving companies, will serve as administrator for the Taxicab Authority, the agency that regulates Clark County's 14 cab companies.

Letter: Hospitals cry nurse shortage, but don't hire: I moved back to Las Vegas almost two years ago. I went through a lot of paperwork to get my active Nevada nursing license. Since then I have tried to find employment to no avail. That is what makes me wonder about the so-called nursing shortage. I agree that there is no shortage, but with the bottom-line mentality they just aren't hiring. Of course this makes them look like they are in dire need of nurses.

Letter: Justices value religious rights: No one was being forced to attend the meetings -- they attended voluntarily. Plus, a foundational tenet of evangelical Christian worship is proselytizing. As a matter of fact, it is a strong recommendation from Jesus himself.

Columnist Jeff German: Lawyer spreads blame in FBI case: ENTERTAINMENT law is Barry Levinson's specialty.

Columnist Jon Ralston: Mack assumes role of McDonald: "I hope it didn't come from him, because someone who's so ethically challenged should mind his own business." -- Michael Mack,

Las Vegas places conference call: Party atmosphere makes attracting corporate meetings a challenge: It's a story that's still making the rounds of boardrooms in corporate America.

Editorial: Tape delay may yield an Olympics of Zzzzz: At least Nevadans found solace in the fact that the next Olympics would be held right next door in Utah. No more tape delays -- Nevadans could watch most of the action live. But NBC executives apparently didn't learn from their past mistake, and bowing to pressure from local affiliates who helped pay for NBC's fees to broadcast the Olympics, the network will air the Salt Lake City Olympics on tape delay in Nevada, California, Washington and Oregon. Instead of offering coverage from 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. to coincide with the rest of the nation, these four Western states will have ...

Where I Stand--Mike O'Callaghan: The making of killers: "I will take my soul in my hand and toss it into the abyss of death. ... The honorable soul has two objectives: Achieving death and honor."

Columnist Sandy Thompson: Attorney focuses on missing children cases: Sandy Thompson; IS THE TRANSIENT nature of Las Vegas spawning a haven for parents who have kidnapped their children?

A 'Leg' Up: John Leguizamo might not yet be a household name, but give the actor-writer-comic time.

Bills could spark court power play: Erin Neff; This week was supposed to mark the one-month anniversary of the state Legislature's adjournment and the first holiday for lawmakers.

Editorial: Spin isn't going to aid a lost cause: When a politician is in trouble nowadays, the spin doctors are called in to provide a political makeover. Bush, in his public appearances, now soft-pedals oil exploration and nuclear power, emphasizing conservation instead. This newfound love for conservation looks contrived since Bush initially mocked conservation's importance.

Making amends: Program lets ex-convicts, victims find 'healing relationship of forgiveness': Stacy J. Willis; Joe Avila took a drive up a California highway -- drunk -- and killed a 17-year-old cheerleader.

Datebook: Bishop Michelina T. Foster, author of "I Do in Las Vegas," will discuss and sign copies of the book from 6-8 p.m. today at Barnes & Noble, 3860 S. Maryland Parkway. From noon-3 p.m. Saturday, she will be at B. Dalton at the Meadows mall.

Gagne muffles the Sounds to stay unbeaten: Spencer Patterson; Apparently, Eric Gagne feels comfortable pitching for triple-A Las Vegas. He just doesn't want to get too comfortable here.

Where I Stand -- Mike O'Callaghan: Some great Americans: THE DISPLAY at the Sunrise Library, which shows the patriotism and loyalty of Japanese-Americans during World War II, was well done. People in attendance let us know that several heroes of the famed 100th Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team live here in Southern Nevada.

This week's races: NASCAR BUSCH GRAND NATIONAL

Exhibit features rare images of Kennedy years: Kimberley McGee; Long after the end of the brief days of Camelot in the White House, the wonder of that era in American history still captivates the public.

Woman arrested in death of toddler: Kim Smith; Prosecutors have filed a murder charge against a Las Vegas woman suspected of causing the death of a 19-month-old child she was babysitting.

Columnist Jerry Fink: Life is a song for pianist Teti, grateful to be alive: Since receiving a heart and double-lung transplant in 1997, tears well up easily in the eyes of pianist Ronald Teti, better known by his professional name, Ronnie Trent.

Mold won't force children out of state-run hospital: By Emily Richmond; Children at a state-run residential psychiatric program in Las Vegas won't have to be relocated while a potentially-hazardous black mold is removed, according to officials at the Division of Child and Family Services.

Swimmers Diaconescu, Livingston win awards: Diaconescu is a two-time NCAA All-American following her 13th place finish in the 200 free at the 2001 Championships. Livingston earned his third NCAA All-America honor in 2001 with a 10th place finish in the 200 butterfly.

Groove Brothers hearken to Belushi-Aykroyd era: John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd gave the world the Blues Brothers.

Quality of air becomes hot issue: When it comes to air quality in the Las Vegas Valley, politicians from the cities, the counties, various boards and agencies agree on one thing: Something must soon be done.

Columnist Kate Maddox: Sun to set on Poundstone gig?: Kate Maddox; The Wednesday arrest of comedian Paula Poundstone may have an impact on her scheduled July 28 appearance at Sunset Station.

Looking back at the Sun: 1950 - 1975: June 21, 1950 -- Hank publishes the first edition of the Free Press.

Letter: Dust created by mall project is overwhelming: I have called the health department twice to advise them of the dust violations of the construction at the Fashion Show mall ... all without results. My son has made visits to the doctor resulting from this overwhelming dust problem at the mall. The doctor's diagnosis? Bronchitis and acute sinus infection. The doctor stated, "Probably from the dust particles where he works."

Despite loss, teen is on fast track to stardom: Victoria Sun; Almost nine months ago, tennis sensation Andy Roddick was a relative unknown to all but the most attentive tennis fans.

Columnist Dean Juipe: Reaction mixed on Bonds: Dean Juipe; It's the most revered single-season record in sports and there are always issues when it's threatened.

Letter: Legal action vs. HMOs is needed: For lawyers to typically charge from 25 percent to 40 percent of any personal injury or medical award from the court to the plaintiff is obscene and usurious. That's the real problem -- the lawyers' awards should be limited to 5 percent to 10 percent.

Saturday's horse racing entries: Post Time 1 p.m.

Asia gathers its English stars for stateside tour: Kirk Baird; The term "supergroup" is a bit of a misleading, since there's usually nothing super about them.

Fountain Plaza gets new delay: Jeffrey Libby; A developer stalled plans for a long-awaited commercial center while its anchor tenant moved closer to a new home downtown during proceedings Tuesday before the Henderson Planning Commission.

Comedian Titus: 'The Evil Cosby': Saying Christopher Titus' humor is a little warped is like saying the Titanic sprang a leak.

Obituaries for June 29, 2001: Maxine Hannig Alcock, 65, of Las Vegas died Tuesday in a local care center. She was born March 3, 1936, in Pioche. A resident for 29 years, she was a nurse, artist, art instructor, and business woman.

Conference aimed at managing stress: Stacy J. Willis; Metro Police Officer Kenny O'Rourke shot and killed a man one Christmas more than 10 years ago. The man's wife and kids watched it happen.

Fourth of July booming with events around LV: But the hubbub also lends itself easily to help in commemorating other less-patriotic occasions, such as food-court grand openings and business-anniversary celebrations. (For some, apparently, those are reason enough to explode a few pyrotechnics.)

Malaysian dance troupe brings culture stateside: Kimberley McGee; The country of Malaysia is a blend of cultures: Muslim, Portugese, Chinese and Siamese, among others.

Recent Las Vegas-area business-related bankruptcies: Rod Iron Rod Inc., 664 Middlegate Road, filed Chapter 11, listing assets of $169,050 and liabilities of $329,980.

Rebels' Lander helps U.S. win Palmer Cup: Lander birdied the 17th hole in his first round of the day to take a one-stroke advantage and eventually defeat Kyron Sullivan of the University of Wales Cardiff, 1 up. In the afternoon round, Lander lost to Augusta State's Oliver Wilson 3 and 2. It was Lander's only defeat in the compeititon.

Where I Stand -- Hank Greenspun: Going toe to toe with Jimmy Hoffa: What makes Jimmy Hoffa run!

Editorial: Taking more time is best course to take: An instance that warranted caution occurred this week when the Las Vegas City Council opted against deciding how to use 61 acres of prime vacant land in the downtown area. It had been anticipated that the City Council would decide at a Monday meeting to select either an academic medical center, film studio, sports arena or an open-ended project of varying uses. But enough members of the City Council still had some questions, and weren't completely satisfied that they were ready yet, postponing action for at least a week.

Friends for life found in camp: "Camps can help children form lifelong relationships," the mother says.

Hard rain: Caution urged as monsoon season nears: Aflash of lightning flares from a towering black cloud. Thunder rumbles in the humid air, accompanied by a downpour that drenches desert dwellers accustomed to clear blue skies.

La Find: Kirk Baird; The MGM Grand is taking a less-is-more approach with its newest show, "La Femme."

City Council exercises caution on 61 acres: Diana Sahagun; The excitement over what projects should be chosen to fill 61 acres downtown came to a halt this week when the Las Vegas City Council decided to postpone its decision.

Barbershop groups keep alive Granddad's songs: Sam Locicero is 80 years old, but he isn't singing the blues -- he's singing harmony.

Columnist Brian Hilderbrand: Jaques Lazier fills bill for Schmidt: Sam Schmidt will be working with his third driver in as many races when the Indy Racing League visits Richmond International Raceway for Saturday's SunTrust Indy Challenge.

Ralph Siraco's selections for Saturday's races at Hollywood Park: 1st Race -- Jeweled Slew -- Co-owner and trainer Dutton tabs Solis here, draws good post for short opening dash, freshman filly to get the jewels? Social Charm -- Draws just inside top pick, Flores atop Lewis-trained filly, might have enough Charm to graduate Cal-Bred maiden. Value Play -- Chalifioux

Nostalgia acts would benefit with more time: The new 10 p.m. show at New York-New York's Cabaret Theatre, which features two doo-wop groups and a Motown legend, suffers from too much of a good thing.

Columnist Muriel Stevens: Spa shows way to healthier eating habits: It's an awesome task to attempt in one week to change the eating habits of a group of women (or men), but that's one of the missions of the swank Golden Door spa in Escondido, Calif.

Administration sued over arsenic standards: WASHINGTON -- An environmental group is taking the Bush administration to court over its decision to suspend tighter arsenic standards for drinking water that had been adopted by former President Clinton.

Editorial: Nuke dump fight heads to court: Specifically, state officials contend that the 10,000-year time frame for the standards to be in effect isn't long enough, especially since this waste still will be deadly long after that period. Nevada officials also note that the boundary at which radiation would be measured starts at 12 miles from the dump's center. In contrast, a repository in New Mexico that handles military nuclear waste measures radiation starting three miles away. Both of the state's objections to the regulations are reasonable and should be adopted.

County's nuke waste watchdog leaving public service: After 30 years doing everything from defending the Las Vegas Wash to managing Clark County's nuclear waste program, Dennis Bechtel leaves government service today and said he plans to return to school.

Like his music, Alexakis remains ever clear: Kirk Baird; Art Alexakis is one of us.

State sues EPA over radiation rules at Yucca: Nevada filed a lawsuit Wednesday opposing radiation standards set at Yucca Mountain, the first legal salvo in what Gov. Kenny Guinn hinted could become the state's strategy in fighting a proposed high-level nuclear waste repository.

Columnist Kate Maddox: ESPNZone set for Hart attack: Kate Maddox; Just because the party will be VIP doesn't mean the public will miss out on the ESPNZone's grand-opening festivities.

Handwriting is on the wall: Penmanship champ has a way with words: Kimberley McGee; It's in the way she loops her letters in perfect form and how her words flow evenly across the page.

Put your best face forward: Goodwill, salon boost confidence of disabled job-seekers: Rebecca Malone; Kathy Hannan's life was turned upside down when her back was injured in a car accident in 1994.

Camp helps lift child's self-esteem: His "big brother" also loves the outdoors, and the boy enjoys his time with him.

News briefs for June 29, 2001: An 86-year-old Las Vegas man died Thursday after he was hit by a car after he attempted to cross Lake Mead Boulevard against a traffic signal.

Judge to rule on homeless evictions: Jace Radke; A U.S. Federal Court judge was expected to rule today on a complaint from 41 homeless people who are requesting a temporary restraining order to stop the City of Las Vegas from forcing them from a vacant lot, dubbed "Tent City."

Former CCSN official faces charges: Jennifer Knight; A grand jury this morning indicted former Community College of Southern Nevada administrator Orlando Sandoval on a gross misdemeanor charge of misusing his position by hiring his father-in-law.

Two cops cleared in shootings: Keith Paul; Metro Police's use-of-force board ruled Thursday night a sergeant acted within department guidelines when she shot and wounded a man who had been swinging a baseball bat at people on the Strip and broke one of the sergeant's fingers.

School Board turns down request for more employees: Terry Webster; A plan to add dozens of new employees to the facilities division failed to make it past the Clark County School Board.

Position cut saves some cash: Terry Webster; The elimination of positions in two departments of the Clark County School District is expected to save $229,346.

Attorney awaits council revote on car dealership: Diana Sahagun; A local attorney who is taking the city of Las Vegas to court says he won't consider dropping the suit until next week's revote on a controversial car dealership.

Use of propane has raised concerns in LV: Propane fuel has long been a concern in populated areas of Clark County, including the Strip and downtown Las Vegas.

Event targets Hispanic youths: By Timothy Pratt; Although he moved to Las Vegas in 1994, Salvador Diaz describes himself as a fifth-generation Southern Californian. He also describes himself as one who is proud of his Mexican heritage.

Names of suspects revealed in home invasion robberies: Jace Radke; Metro Police have released the names of three men arrested Wednesday in connection with a series of home invasion robberies.

Prayer at graduations revisited: While reviewing district policies, Bill Hoffman, the school district's lead attorney, suggested the current policy allowing prayer at graduations be changed.