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WORLD AND NATION

Iran disputes the cause of Neda's death

Iran's government-backed Press TV said Neda did not die from the bullet of Iranian security forces, despite eyewitness claims that the woman was shot by pro-government militiamen. Neda's death, captured on amateur video and posted online, has come to represent resistance to the Iranian government's official election results. The video shows Neda near chanting protesters, yet Neda herself did not appear to be protesting; Neda's friend told reporters that they had stepped out of the car to get some fresh air after being stuck in traffic. One Iranian official suggested American intelligence services could be responsible, since Neda died on the outskirts of the protest; CIA spokesperson called such a suggestion "absurd and offensive."

Honduras President rejects replacement

A new Honduras president was sworn in Sunday, hours after a military-led coup forced the former president out of office. The head of Congress Roberto Micheletti replaced President Jose Manuel Zelaya, who was accused of provoking confrontations within the country. Zelaya's supposed letter of resignation was read before the vote, yet Zelaya denied writing the letter. The deposed president was taken to Costa Rica, where he said he still plans to attend a summit of Central American heads-of-state.

Governor went AWOL during affair

After going missing for days, South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford admitted during a press conference that he had had an affair with a woman in Argentina. Sanford had been considered as a potential Republican presidential contender for 2012, yet his emotional confession incited calls for his resignation. He and his wife had separated two weeks prior to a reporter spotting Sanford getting of a plane from Argentina. Sanford had told reporters he had gone on an Appalachian Trail hiking trip.

Environmentally efficient bowling

The energy efficient bowling alley Brooklyn Bowl is scheduled to open this week. With a stage made from recycled tires and wood extracted from well-managed forests, the club stands out in its adherence to the demanding standards of U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program. The green construction cost hundreds of thousands of dollars more than conventional building methods, yet the energy-efficient system are expected to pay off in the long run.

Arizona bars criticized for going Old West

A bill moving through Arizona Legislature would allow anyone with a concealed-weapon permit to bring guns into establishments serving alcohol. Bar owners would still have the authority to restrict guns from the premises, and those carrying weapons would not be allowed to drink. The bill is part of National Rifle Association's nationwide movement endorsing self-protection, yet bar owners have condemned the proposition as potentially dangerous.

OHIO

ComFest fatality

Bryan Barbin, 18, was fatally stabbed at ComFest Saturday night, June 27, and pronounced dead early the next morning. Police reported that Barbin was stabbed multiple times in the chest. One witness said he saw the victim wrestling with someone who appeared to be his friend before one man apparently fell while the other began apologizing. Others said Barbin appeared to be stabbing himself. A man was detained, questioned and released; he did not specify his relationship with Barbin or what they were doing prior to the stabbing. Barbin had recently completed his freshmen year at Ohio University.

Ohio to receive stimulus funding for renewable energy

The state's $100-million dollar program devoted to the renewable energy industry is underway. On Friday, Ohio was cleared to receive $38.4 million of $96.1 million federal stimulus money allotted to the state. The bulk of the money, $35 million, is for developing Ohio's renewable energy as well as the manufacturers that make it possible. In response to stricter federal standards, $15 million will be designed to help businesses abide carbon emission regulations.

Must use headlights with your wipers

New Ohio traffic laws begin today, July 1. Of those laws, one requires drivers using their windshield wipers in the rain to also turn on their headlights. Another mandates that drivers move over or slow down for tow trucks on the side of the road. While police may issue warnings for wiper violations, tickets will not be issued before 2010. Drivers who break the law set to protect tow-truck drivers' safety, however, face fines of $300 plus court fees. The state itself has new traffic laws to follow, such as creating transition zones when the posted speed limits drop by 20 mph or more.

Originally Published: July 1, 2009

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