Stories from Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Scientists now say the universe may weigh less than previously thought, perhaps as much as 20 percent less, which is quite remarkable, especially when considering various factors such as Ted Kennedy and Barry Bonds. But I can't help wondering whether the universe has really slimmed down, or is it like one of those pathetic movie stars who drop a few pounds with Slim-Fast or WeightWatchers, only to binge again when they think no one is looking...

Excerpts from recent editorials in newspapers in the United States and abroad: Dec. 4 South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Hugo Chavez: If nothing else, the rebuke that Hugo Chavez suffered at the polls this Sunday should at least cool his charge toward a socialist state...

Several area schools are closed today, including Nevada R-5 schools, Sheldon, Bronaugh, Lamar, Liberal and El Dorado Springs public schools, Calvary Christian School in Nevada, Cedar Ridge State School in Nevada, Rich Hill Head Start, classes at Crowder College in Nevada, day classes at Missouri Welding Institute, the Primary Learning Place preschool in Nevada and Nevada Head Start...

Missouri's first winter storm of the season came through on Saturday night leaving thousands of area residents without power and utility companies scrambling. Another round followed on Monday, leaving still more without power. Power was out throughout Lamar, portions of Sheldon, Moundville, and rural Vernon County all reported extended outages...

If you play golf at the Frank E. Peters Golf Course or just have an interest in the course, the Nevada Parks Board would like to know what you think is needed to improve the course. The parks board's Twin Lakes complex subcommittee will be holding a public meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the City/County Community Cen-ter, Nevada, to discuss the needs at the golf course...

After a slow start, the Cottey Comets outscored Rhema Bible College 43-23 in the second half of their game Friday night to beat the Eagles 59-54 in their second meeting of the season raising their record to 6-2 for the season. Cottey handily won their home opener Nov. 2 against Rhema Bible 65-47...