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The initial story was about a $30 million administration building for the Oakland Intermediate School District, which is charged with providing special and vocational education services to the 28 districts in the county. The 153,000-square foot building is a lightning rod for the community and is very lavish, with balconies, skywalks, gourmet kitchen, ceremonial offices, etc. The reporters found special education funds were used for the building. This story led to speculation that funds were being used for other items not related to special or vocational education. The reporters then started investigating the board members and other top administrators. They found that funds were being used for everything from golf games to rented luxury vehicles and limousines to $400 per night hotel rooms to retreats where alcohol, escargot and other gourmet items were served to the purchase of Waterford crystal and many other items.