NEWS: Thursday July 2, 2009

Abortion opponents have formally started the work of putting a measure on the Colorado ballot in 2010 that would give rights to human embryos. Colorado defeated a similar measure last year by a 3-to-1 ratio. The Montrose Daily Press reports Personhood USA, based in the Denver suburb of Arvada, said Thursday it has filed a new version that will use the term “the beginning of the biological development”.
Source: Montrose Daily Press (Posted 3:32p by Jim Kapp)

Randall S. Fiertz, Director for the Office of Airport Compliance and Field Operations signed the Director’s Determination today dismissing the Part 16 complaint filed by Jetaway Aviation Inc on January 25, 2008 against Montrose County and the Montrose County Building Authority…..
Source: News Release  (Posted 5:17p by Jim Kapp)

An Olathe Police officer has been suspended without pay after his arrest on allegations of domestic violence and misdemeanor assault, stemming from a woman’s accusations of corporal punishment. The Montrose Daily Press reports that Officer Michael Percival has been suspended from the force after his June 26th arrest. He has since posted a $2500 bond and his next court date is set for July 15th…
Source: Montrose Daily Press (Posted 4:45p by Jim Kapp)

Earlier today a Montrose High School teacher was formally charged with sex assault on a child. Andrew Burke, a band teacher at Montrose High School, faced a judge for a formal filing of charges. Burke has been placed on administrative leave by the school district and is now scheduled to be back in court again on Aug. 6th for a preliminary hearing….
(Posted 4:47p by Jim Kapp)

Three Grand Valley residents were killed and a fourth person from Denver (47-year-old Mohamed E. Bakar) was injured in a head-on collision in Wyoming last night. The Daily Sentinel says one person was from Fruita (47-year-old Kelly D. Herland), and the other two were from Palisade (52-year-old Dean L. Davis & 47-year-old Shelly A Davis). The accident is under investigation.  It’s uknown at this time whether Bakar will be charged with anything.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 12:11p)

Next Friday the Gunnison County Commissioners will review the Planning Commission’s final recommendations of the Special Development Project Resolution. Crested Butte News says one requirement is to be carbon-neutral before the county will approve a project. This is a process two-years in the making, and with approval, a public hearing can be scheduled.
Source: Crested Butte News (Posted 11:15a)

Sarah Curry pleaded guilty last week to a charge of attempted sexual assault by one in a position of trust. The Daily Press says Curry was a program coordinator for the Robert A. Brown Center in Montrose when she allegedly performed sexual acts with a client while he was hospitalized in Montrose last year. The 30-year-old is facing probation.
Source: Daily Press (Posted 10:20a)

To keep radon levels down at the Ouray School, testing will be done, and according to ouraynews.com, no expense will be spared, as this is a safety issue. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that degrades into tiny particles that can be ingested. Testing is expected to be complete tomorrow.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 10:23a)

Denver’s airport could get a $1 billion makeover that would include moving security checkpoints out of the main terminal’s vast Great Hall and adding a passenger train station. KJCT says airport manager Kim Day gave City Council members a briefing Wednesday on preliminary plans for the city-owned airport.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 10:24a)

Out of the many new laws that took effect across the state yesterday, one of them allows certain people to harvest rainwater. In some areas, it’s been illegal to collect rainfall for over 100 years, as each drop was assigned ownership as soon as it fell from the sky. The Daily Planet reports that retiring Senator Jim Isgar co-sponsored the law, saying 90% of rain either evaporates or is soaked up by plants. The law benefits those who aren’t served by a water system.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 8:24a)

Norwood Chief Marshal Bob Yant says it’s wise to lock your house and car to prevent break-ins. The Norwood Post says things in Norwood have been relatively quiet, but two cases of vandalism are being investigated. A house was broken into and vandalized, but nothing was taken, and a car was damaged and broken into, again, with nothing taken. If you know anything about either incident, occurring either this past Sunday or Monday, call the Norwood Marshal’s Office at 327-4244.
Source: Norwood Post (Posted 7:01a)

Approximately 1,000 DMEA customers were without power last night. A tree branch fell onto some lines in the Olathe area, knocking power out in Olathe and into Delta County for about an hour. DMEA customers had power back on around 9:30 last night.
Source: DMEA   (Posted 7:02a)

Crews continue to monitor a brush fire on the Bookcliffs that has grown to 40 acres. The fire broke out after a possible lightning strike Tuesday afternoon. NBC 11 News reports that the fire is in a remote area and no structures are threatened.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 7:02a)

The Delta International Order of Odd Fellows #116 donated a new Liberty gun safe to the Cedaredge Police Department last week. According to Mountain Valley News, the Odd Fellows paid the entire $2,000 for the safe after being asked to simply assist in the funding. The new safe, delivered last Thursday, is 6 ½’ x 4’ and has multiple compartments within it.
Source: Mountain Valley News (Posted 7:03a)

The USDA Forest Service announced the closure of the Island Lake Campground on the Grand Mesa National Forest to allow campground reconstruction and renovation work to occur. The closure is expected to last all summer. Likewise, the Forest announced that visitors will not be able to access the Granby or Battlement Reservoirs via Forest Road 115 with a full size vehicle because the roadway is also scheduled for reconstruction work. However, ATV access (for vehicles that are 50” in width or less) will be afforded to this area via the Scotland Trail #752 (off of Highway 65).

“We regret this inconvenience for both our campers and those wanting to access the reservoirs from Forest Road 115,” stated District Ranger Connie Clementson. “We are expecting a new road to be built within the next several weeks to provide access for full size, high clearance vehicles.” Clementson went on to explain that the reconstruction will be beneficial by routing traffic out of the campground area and providing a separate 4-wheel drive road to the Granbys. Likewise, campers will enjoy a renovated Island Lake campground in 2010 that will provide for ATV access from the campground on designated trails, as well as, several sites that offer electrical hook-ups and longer, wider campsites. For more information, contact the Grand Valley Ranger District at 970-242-8211 or the Grand Mesa Visitors Center at 970-856-4153.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:51a)

Last night, the Montrose County Planning Commission unanimously approved a special use permit, contingent upon 16 conditions, for Energy Fuels to construct a Uranium and Vanadium mill at the west end of the County. Last night’s meeting allowed public comment due to the addition of the conditions, but in the end, Energy Fuels prevailed. The recommendation now heads to the county commissioners, and if they give approval, Energy Fuels must still get approval from the state department of public health and environment.   (Posted 5:59a)

Montrose County has installed fencing and gates on Montrose Regional Airport property to implement federal TSA requirements to control access to the airfield. The fencing and gates were installed at the Aerospace Research Park to regulate through the fence access from privately owned property in the Aerospace Research Park on to the airfield. This action is being taken after notice to affected property owners and following a County sponsored meeting with TSA representatives and off Airport users. The TSA-required fence was installed by a private, local vendor.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 5:59a)

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation has released the 2008 Crime in Colorado Report. Overall, a decrease in crime has been reported for 2008. The findings in this report note a 6% decrease in major crimes and an 8% decrease in the crime rate per 100,000 population. Factors resulting in the percent change could include community-policing programs sponsored by local law enforcement agencies across the state, citizen awareness, and willingness to report suspicious activities.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:00a)

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NEWS: Wednesday July 1, 2009

Montrose County has installed fencing and gates on Montrose Regional Airport property to implement federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirements to control access to the airfield. The fencing and gates were installed at the Aerospace Research Park to regulate through the fence access from privately owned property in the Aerospace Research Park on to the airfield. This action is being taken after notice to affected property owners and following a County sponsored meeting with TSA representatives and off Airport users. The TSA-required fence was installed by a private local vendor.
Source: Press Release  (Posted 5:22p by Jim Kapp)

So How do we slow down climate change on our planet? Well according to Deputy Interior Secretary David Hayes carbon-absorbing natural landscapes is one possibility. The Daily Sentinel says that Hayes and Thomas Lovejoy, founder of the PBS series “Nature” claim that biological sequestration can capture some of the carbon emissions leading to global warming. Lovejoy also adds that restoring grazing lands and changing forest management could pull about 150 billion tons of carbon out of the atmosphere…
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:15p by Jim Kapp)

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has released the 2008 Crime in Colorado Report on its web page. Overall, a decrease in crime has been reported for 2008. The findings in this report note a 6.1% decrease in major crimes and an 8.0% decrease in the crime rate per 100,000 population. Factors resulting in the percent change could include community-policing programs sponsored by local law enforcement agencies  across the state, and citizen awareness and willingness to report suspicious activities.
Source: News Release  (Posted 3:41p by Jim Kapp)

The Bureau of Land Management is monitoring a wildfire along the north end of the Bookcliffs range, a fire that ignited yesterday. The Daily Sentinel reports that the brush fire is burning about 25 acres in the Hunter Canyon area. BLM officials don’t expect the fire to expand. There are a number of fire fighting vehicles on the scene along with some air support and a helicopter to try to keep the blaze contained….
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 3:35p by Jim Kapp)

A San Miguel Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a burglary report at the San Miguel County Fairgrounds last Tuesday. The suspect(s) forced entry into a concession building causing damage to the door and stole approximately $50.00 in merchandise. Anyone having information regarding this theft or any other crime in San Miguel County is asked to contact Deputy Todd Gordon at (970) 728-4442 ext. 121.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 12:07p)

Montrose Memorial Hospital is being awarded Avatar International’s Exceeding Patient Expectations award. Avatar International, an industry leader in healthcare quality improvement services today recognized its award winning hospital partners in 2008.

In making the announcement, David Medvedeff, PharmD, MBA, CEO of Avatar said, “The hallmark of exceptional service to patients is to consistently meet or exceed their expectations - not always an easy task. Montrose Memorial Hospital has demonstrated that it exceeds its patients’ expectations in a tangible and measurable manner. As a winner of Avatar’s Exceeding Patient Expectations Award, I congratulate Montrose Memorial for its continued and impressive efforts to put patients first.”

Dave Hample, CEO at MMH said, “I am proud to accept this award on behalf of our staff, volunteers and physicians. This is the seventh year in a row that MMH has received this award which shows what a great team we have. Our patients will always be our primary focus and this award shows that we are succeeding and exceeding their expectations.”

(Photo courtesy of Montrose Memorial Hospital)
Source: Press Release   (Posted 12:00p)

The City of Durango has been awarded $234,500 in Lottery funds by the Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) Board to purchase a 223-acre parcel of land within Horse Gulch. With this latest land acquisition, the City has now preserved 383 acres in the Horse Gulch area.

Horse Gulch includes more than 1,500 acres of undeveloped land owned by a combination of public and private entities. Its easily-accessible network of trails makes the area a popular destination for hikers, bikers, environmental researchers and others. The Crader parcel straddles the eastern ridge of Horse Gulch, providing passive recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat. The parcel is visible from several vantage points around town, making it an important part of the scenic backdrop of the community.

Great Outdoor Colorado is the result of a citizens’ initiative passed in 1992. Its mission is to help preserve, protect, and enhance the state’s wildlife, park, river, trails and open space heritage by awarding funds to local governments, land trusts, Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:31a)

The Montrose Fire Protection District responded to a total of 204 calls last month. According to the fire department, the majority of their calls were EMS. Fifteen fires were responded to, and 27 miscellaneous calls came in. As a reminder, the carbon monoxide detector law is in effect starting today. If your alarm goes off, go outside immediately and call 911.
Source: Montrose Fire Protection District   (Posted 10:26a)

Crime Stoppers in Grand Junction is asking for the public’s help in locating the suspect or suspects who stole a painting in Palisade. The painting, titled Night Time Take Out depicting fortune cookies and Chinese take-out boxes valued at $2,400 was taken from Rapid Creek Road June 6th. Call 241-STOP with any information.

(Photo courtesy of GJ Crime Stoppers)
Source: GJ Crime Stoppers   (Posted 10:27a)

Colorado is still the leanest state in the nation. That’s according to a report out today from the Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. KJCT says Colorado had the lowest rate of obese adults, at 18.9%.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 10:27a)

Election results from Mountain Village show that Mayor Bob Delves won reelection, incumbent Cath Jett keeps her seat, and Richard Child hopped on board. A report by the Daily Planet shows that out of 831 ballots, 424 were returned. The mail-in ballot election for Mountain Village Town Council took place yesterday.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 7:18a)

Ouray County Commissioners are excited to learn more about participating in an anemometer program by CSU. Ouraynews.com says the study would show whether or not wind power for the County is a practical option. The only fee to the County would be a concrete pad for the tower. The County began discussion on this program Monday.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 7:19a)

A Parachute man reportedly shot himself by accident Monday night while cleaning his .22-caliber handgun. The Daily Sentinel says the unidentified man ended up in a Rifle hospital after he dropped the gun, causing a gunshot wound to the rectal area. No word on the man’s condition.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 7:19a)

The body of a woman who fell into Fish Creek near Steamboat Springs more than two weeks ago has been found. KJCT says searchers located the body of Rebecca Green of Steamboat Springs on Monday, but crews weren’t able to free her body until yesterday.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 7:21a)

Starting today, Colorado motorists will have to pay more to register their vehicles. State lawmakers passed a bill this year adding surcharges to all vehicle registrations to raise about $250 million a year for highway and bridge repairs. The new law also imposes a $2 daily fee on rental cars. Also into effect today is the DNA law known as Katie’s Law where any person arrested for a felony crime in the state will have to submit a DNA sample.
Source: Montrose County
Source: Colorado General Assembly (Posted 7:21a)

A third public meeting regarding a possible Uranium Mill in the West End of Montrose County takes place tonight. The Montrose County Planning Commission will decide whether to recommend approval of a special use permit for Energy Fuels. Once the planning commission makes their recommendation, the permit request heads to the Montrose County Commissioners. If the county gives it final approval, it must also be approved by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Tonight’s meeting is at 6 o’clock at Friendship Hall at the Montrose County Fairgrounds.
Source: Montrose County (Posted 6:09a)

James M. Robb State Park in Fruita is closed for the summer due to high amounts of E. Coli in the water. According to NBC 11 News, the recession is the reason the lake won’t be cleaned up anytime soon. It’s reported that after layoffs and cutbacks, the park can’t afford the cleanup. They also need to figure out where the contamination came from as to keep it from happening again.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 6:11a)

Yesterday Senator Jim Isgar (D-Hesperus) announced he is leaving the Colorado Senate to join the U.S. Department of Agriculture as Colorado State Director for Rural Development. Senator Isgar is one of the longest serving Senators and his resignation will take effect when Isgar starts his new position with the USDA in a couple of weeks.

“After many years working for Colorado, I’m excited at the opportunity to continue that work at the U.S. Department of Agriculture,” said Sen. Isgar. “As a resident of a rural area these issues touch me very deeply. I’m happy that I will be able to continue to work for Colorado, rebuild and revitalize our rural economy, and improve the lives of every American every day. I want to maintain the vitality of rural America– that’s where the strength of this country has always been and that’s where our strength will continue to be.”

“I’m so proud of Senator Isgar and his new position in the Department of Agriculture,” said Senate President Brandon Shaffer (D-Longmont). “With the loss of Senator Isgar we are losing a great mind, a wonderful representative of the people, and an expert in many areas of state government, including water issues. While we are happy for his new endeavors, he will be greatly missed in the Senate.”

A lifelong rancher, Sen. Isgar represented the Western Slope well. He is the Chair of the Agriculture Committee on Agriculture, Chairs the Permanent Legislative Water Review Committee, and was known as the Capitol’s senior authority on water issues. Senator Isgar’s term was up in 2010.

Senator Isgar’s resignation follows the resignations of two other Democratic Senators. In May, Senate President Peter Groff accepted a position with President Obama’s administration as the Director for the Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Center in the Office of the Secretary of Education. Senator Jennifer Veiga also left the Senate in May for personal reasons.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:12a)

Starting today, all new houses in the state must have carbon monoxide detectors within 15 feet of the entrance of all bedrooms. NBC 11 News says that the detectors can be hard-wired or plug in. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless gas and over 100 people die a year in the U.S. from it. If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, immediately get everyone outside and call 911.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 6:16a)

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NEWS: Tuesday June 30, 2009

The body of a woman who fell into a fast flowing creek more than two weeks ago has been found. The Daily Sentinel reports that volunteers and members of the Routt County Sheriff’s office found Rebecca Green of Steamboat Springs on Monday but crews weren’t able to free her body until early this morning…..
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:09p by Jim Kapp)

Just this past week the Colorado Division of Wildlife found some very encouraging news. In their spring survey they discovered 10 new lynx kittens, seven female and 3 males. The Daily Planet says that these are the first finds of its kind since 2006. The kittens were discovered over five dens, three in the San Juans and two in the Gunnison and Eagle county areas.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 4:47p by Jim Kapp)

A new ruling may very well change the way some criminal cases are tried especially in Mesa County. NBC 11 news has learned that in a 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court any lab evidence that is presented by the prosecution must be accompanied by the lab technician or analyst who produced the result to explain their findings to a jury. This is a ruling that primarily expands on the 6th amendment which gives anyone accused of a crime the right to face witnesses against him. District Attorney Hautziner says that for felony cases that require fingerprint analysis or DNA testing, it will likely be business as usual. This whole ruling will be made easier now that the Colorado Bureau of Investigation has placed a branch in the Grand Valley….
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 4:45p by Jim Kapp)

Today Senator Jim Isgar (D-Hesperus) announced he is leaving the Colorado Senate to join the U.S. Department of Agriculture as Colorado State Director for Rural Development. Senator Isgar is one of the longest serving Senators and his resignation will take effect when Isgar starts his new position with the USDA in a couple of weeks.
Source: Press Release  (Posted 3:35p by Jim Kapp)

With summer finally here the Montrose Rec. District is offering a variety of activies for everyone. They are currently registering for Youth Hockey, Sporties for Shorties, and Weekly Hiking Club. Adult Tennis and Golf lessons as well as Horseback riding are also available. To get the details call their Customer Service Representatives at 249-7705….
Source: Press Release  (Posted 3:32p by Jim Kapp)

Western State College in Gunnison continues to excel in the Learfield Sports Directors Cup Competition. The latest figures are out for 2008-09 and Western State placed 12th out of nearly 300 eligible colleges and universities. Four other RMAC schools placed in the top 50 and they include Adams State, Metro State, Nebraska-Kearney and Mesa State. The Mountaineers are one of only two NCAA Division II institutions to place in the top 25 in each of the past 14 years….
Source: News Release  (Posted 3:30p by Jim Kapp)

The first unofficial forest fire of the season could be well under way as the Bureau of Land Management has been sent to a stretch of land northwest of the Bookcliffs. According to the Daily Sentinel there are reports that there is a 3 to 5 acre area in Hunter Canyon that’s on fire. The BLM has dispatched two engines, a helicopter crew, and a single engine air tanker to the scene….
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 3:28p by Jim Kapp)

Starting tomorrow, all new houses in the state must have carbon monoxide detectors within 15 feet of the entrance of all bedrooms. NBC 11 News says that the detectors can be hard-wired or plug in. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless gas and over 100 people in the US die a year from it. If you carbon monoxide detector goes off, immediately get everyone outside and call 911.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 11:57a)

A recruit for the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office collapsed and died after the department’s physical agility test. KKTV says Sergio Aragon, collapsed Monday at a high school track after running about a half-mile.  CPR was performed.  An autopsy is scheduled for the 34-year-old.
Source: KKTV (Posted 10:51a)

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests will hold a free workshop for potential bidders on How to Bid on Federal Contracts. The workshop will be offered from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on July 9, 2009. The workshop will be held at the Montrose Board of County Commissioners Meeting Room, 161 S. Townsend Ave Montrose, CO and it will focus on how to apply for federal contracts.

The purpose of this workshop is to help contractors access government information regarding work opportunities, as well as stimulus projects, that they might be able to compete for,” stated Michele Schaal, GMUG Administrative Officer. “It’s all about helping businesses gain a better understanding on how to bid on federal contracts and helping to sustain our economy.”

The workshop is sponsored by the USDA Forest Service, the USDI Bureau of Land Management, and local Senate and Congressional Offices.

Those folks who plan to attend are requested to R.S.V.P. to Michele Schaal at 970.874.6601 or e-mail: mschaal@fs.fed.us.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:19a)

It is the goal of the Montrose County Health & Human Services to assist individuals and organizations/businesses wanting to provide food to the public at the county’s many local events to meet State of Colorado regulations. At the recent Montrose Main in Motion some organizations providing food had not been on the original list provided to the County agency and therefore did not receive the notification regarding the need to obtain a food vendors license. They will make every effort to ensure that organizations will not encounter these same obstacles to participation in events in the future.

They would like to clarify again what they at the Health Department must do to ensure the health and safety of the public as it relates to food being sold or given to the public at public events. Anyone serving food at temporary/special events as well as selling food from mobile units are required to have a food license. Such events include county fairs, Main-In-Motion and other events where food is being served to the public. To obtain an application for a license or if you have questions, call the Environmental Health program at Montrose County Health & Human Services – 252-5000.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 9:59a)

Three people, including two juveniles were arrested last week after an alleged dog-fighting incident in Delta. According to the Daily Press, Jose Felix and two juveniles were owners of four dogs involved in the alleged fight June 22nd. The dogs have all been seized and appear to be doing well. Delta Police say there’s no indication any bets were placed but that Colorado law says it’s illegal for dogs to fight. Felix appears in court July 15th.
Source: Daily Press (Posted 7:52a)

Thieves who got away with a 750-mL bottle of Remy Martin Louis XIII cognac from Bottleworks in Telluride knew exactly how much that bottle was worth. A report by the Telluride Watch says the $1,777 price tag was right on the bottle. The Louis XIII was temporarily in an unlocked case during the Bluegrass festival when it was stolen. What makes this bottle of brandy so expensive is that it’s aged anywhere between 40-100 years in special oak fine-walled barrels. The crystal decanter is created by 11 different glassblowers and it’s engraved with 24-karat gold and topped with a solid crystal, fleur-de-lys shaped stopper. Bottleworks doesn’t plan on replacing the stolen bottle that’s been in their store since it opened in 2003. If you know anything about this crime, contact the Telluride Marshal’s Department at 728-3818.
Source: Telluride Watch (Posted 6:57a)

It’s a somber celebration for the only statewide organization in Colorado that helps low-income Coloradoans pay their energy bills. Energy Outreach Colorado has been around for twenty years, but there’s little birthday cake around the office this summer. Executive director Skip Arnold says they’re more focused on the upcoming winter, when higher energy costs and decreased assistance for those struggling to pay utility bills is expected to hit people harder than in the past. Arnold says they’re anticipating drops in both state and federal funding for energy assistance for low-income seniors and families. Federal energy assistance funding had been increased in 2008, but Arnold says President Obama’s current budget has reduced funding by 37 percent.
Source: Colorado News Connection   (Posted 6:57a)

Colorado will receive nearly $17 million in federal stimulus funds to repair and renovate 15 health care centers across the state. KJCT says the funds will help with capital projects, including expanding the use of electronic health records and buying equipment.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 6:58a)

Grand Junction panhandlers can stay in the area for now, as Grand Junction city council voted 7-0 last night to address the issue of aggressive solicitation in the future. NBC 11 News says council voted 5-2 against an emergency ordinance to prohibit solicitation in city medians and right of ways. It was pointed out during last night’s meeting that passing these ordinances could affect charity solicitation such as fire fighters who use roadways as they try to “Fill the Boot.” No word on when Grand Junction city council will review these items.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 5:49a)

Over 100 people were without power in the North Fork area yesterday after a pole was damaged. DMEA says power went off around 8:30 in the morning and for some stayed off for 5 hours. Power was restored to all customers who had lost it. If you have any questions, contact DMEA at 240-1234 in the Montrose area or 874-2345 in the Delta area.
Source: DMEA   (Posted 5:49a)

Country Jam had quite a crowd this year, which kept the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Junction Police Department, and Colorado State Patrol busy. There were 56 DUI’s reported, 23 more than last year, and a record high in the past five years. Fortunately, no DUI crashes occurred in the time Country Jam was going on. Assaults and Domestic Violence were also up from last year. Country Jam lasted four days.
DUI’s: (2009)-56 / (2008)-33
Assaults: (2009)-3 / (2008)-1
Domestic Violence: (2009)-4 / (2008)-2
Source: Press Release   (Posted 5:50a)

The small kitchen fire that broke out last Tuesday evening at Montrose Garlic Mike’s restaurant was brought under control from rapid response of the Montrose Fire Department. A clean up crew and construction crew were brought in the following day. Garlic Mike’s is reopen and serving again. View a menu at garlicmikes.com.
Source: PSA   (Posted 5:53a)

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NEWS: Monday June 29, 2009

Union members upset with Gov. Bill Ritter over recent vetoes have decide not to support him at an event commemorating the site of the 1914 Ludlow massacre as a historic landmark. Grand Junction Daily Sentinel says United Food and Commercial Workers Union and Pueblo firefighters were among those expressing their discontent of Ritter’s recent vetoes. One of the bills would’ve allowed firefighters to unionize without local government approval. Another would’ve provided unemployment benefits to workers locked out by employers during labor disputes.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 4:38p by Jim Kapp)

There’s been some new developments concerning the investigation of Valley Investments. NBC 11 News has learned from their sources that there may be as many 200 victims with up to $30 million invested. Grand Junction Attrny Kirk Rider has been appointed by the state to collect and return both money and land to those investors….
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 4:23p by Jim Kapp)

This fall when the kids go back to school and hit the books, they’ll be opening brand new textbooks. Montrose Daily Press reports that the Montrose County School District RE-1J school board approved the district’s plan to purchase both new math and literacy adoption program textbooks for classroom use…..
Source: Montrose Daily Press (Posted 4:25p by Jim Kapp)

Students entering grades 6, 7, 10 and 11 MUST have a booster immunization for Pertussis (whooping cough) before school starts in August. Parents are encouraged to get this booster before school registration starts on August 10, 2009. This immunization booster is available from your health care provider or at Montrose County Health and Human Services. For an appointment at Montrose County Health and Human Services call 252-5000.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 11:57a)

Mosquitoes are here again and Montrose County Health Department would like to remind everyone how important it is to use an effective mosquito repellent when outdoors during the early morning and evening hours. Repellents containing DEET are effective in concentrations up to 30% with the greater percentage providing the longest protection. Repellents containing PICARIDIN or the OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS also offer adequate protection. As always, these products must be used according to package directions. If you have standing water on your property, a great place for mosquitoes to breed, you may want to use BTI dunks (donuts). These are placed in the water and will kill mosquito larvae. These dunks are available for no cost at Montrose County Health & Human Services, 1845 South Townsend, across from Big O Tires.  For more information go to www.FightTheBiteColorado.com or call 252-5012.
Source: PSA   (Posted 11:41a)

The following statistics are from the 2009 Country Jam event tallied from the beginning of shift to the end of shift for all law enforcement. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office reports, with the assistance of Colorado State Liquor Enforcement Officers and Grand Junction Police Department Officers:

44 Alcohol Offenses (minor in possession)
2 Contributing Alcohol to a Minor
3 Trespass
1 Domestic Violence
3 Assaults
The Colorado State Patrol reports 9 DUIs for the same reporting period.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 11:35a)

Due to recent storms, the path is temporarily closed again between Shoshone Power Plant on the west end and Behr Ranch on the east. CDOT crews may need to close more sections if high water warrants. There is no anticipated re-open schedule at this point–this restriction will be posted on www.cotrip.org and removed once the path is open.
Source: PSA   (Posted 11:00a)

JBS Swift Beef Company, a Greeley company is voluntarily expanding its June 24 recall to include approximately 380,000 pounds of assorted beef primal products that may be contaminated with E. Coli. The USDA says an investigation of 24 illnesses in multiple states prompted the company to re-examine its food safety system.
Source: USDA (Posted 10:56a)

Brett Stearns, a BLM firefighter died Friday afternoon after being hit by a falling tree. KJCT says a dozen BLM firefighters were removing dead aspen trees near Craig when the tree fell. A federal accident investigation team is reviewing what happened.
Source: KJCT (Posted 10:20a)

The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) announced eight grant awards totaling nearly $2 million to target and combat auto theft statewide. The grant recipients include funding for seven multi-jurisdictional auto theft task forces made-up of 34 law enforcement agencies from across the state. There are also monies dedicated to auto theft prevention technology and training to support these aggressive, ongoing efforts to arrest and prosecute auto thieves.

“The bad economy threatens to increase Colorado’s auto theft problem at a time when local law enforcement has been forced to slash budgets for auto theft investigators and resources,” says Matt Cook, CATPA Board President. “Auto theft is a moving target, so these funds support multi-jurisdictional auto theft task forces that pool resources and effectively crack down on auto theft beyond city and county borders.”

SB-60, the Colorado law that went into effect July 1, 2008, established new funding for CATPA. The statute gives priority to multi-agency applicants that target auto theft in different geographical regions of the state. CATPA is a cash-funded program that awards grants through the annual collection by insurance companies of $1.00 for every insured vehicle. State legislators intended this to be a direct investment by consumers to combat auto theft and ultimately lower car insurance premiums. Auto theft investigations also target related crimes, such as drug running, gang activity, burglary and organized crime.

CATPA Grant Awards
Eight grant recipients received one-year approval, and based on quarterly evaluation of results, awards may be extended for multi-year funding in order to establish long-term, ongoing regional auto theft prevention efforts. CATPA grant award recipients: Regional Auto Theft Team of Northern Colorado, Denver Metropolitan Auto Theft Team, Southern Colorado Motor Vehicle Theft Task Force, Jefferson County Regional Auto Theft Task Force, South Area Auto Theft Task Force, Operation Southwestern Auto Theft Prevention and the Multi-Jurisdictional Project to Reduce Automobile Theft. A grant was awarded to the Colorado Auto Theft Investigators Association for statewide scholarships to law enforcement and prosecutors for investigative training.

CATPA is also committed to educating the public on auto theft prevention steps drivers can take and join law enforcement in recommending a layered approach to preventing auto theft:

1. Use Common Sense
–Park in well-lit areas.
–Be aware of your surroundings.
–Report anything suspicious and avoid suspicious looking people.
–Lock your doors.
–Close your windows completely.
–Take your keys out of the car.
–Never leave your car running unattended - not even for a minute.
–Remove all items from the car or hide them from view.
2. Visible or Audible Anti-Theft Devices
–Audible alarm system
–Steering wheel locks
–Steering column collars
–Theft deterrent decals
–Wheel locks
–Window/VIN etching
3. Vehicle Immobilizer
–Smart keys have computer chips that must be present to start the car.
–Fuse cut-offs
–Kill-switches
–Starter, ignition and fuel disablers
4. Tracking System
–Install a tracking system that alerts police or a monitoring service when the vehicle is reported stolen.
5. Avoid Carjacking
–Drive with windows rolled up and doors locked.
–Be aware of your surroundings.
–When stopped at a signal, leave enough space between you and the next car to be able to drive away if approached.
–Do not enter your car if someone is loitering. Seek help.
–Be alert at drive-up ATMs.
–Put life and safety first!

Report fraud and vehicle theft to your local law enforcement, as well as the National Insurance Crime Bureau at 1-800-TEL-NICB (1-800-835-6422). Your call to NICB can be anonymous and you may be eligible for a reward.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:19a)

Tomorrow, residents of Mountain Village will vote via mail-in ballot only, for three spots on the Mountain Village Town Council. A report by the Daily Planet says that ballots can be dropped off at Town Hall from 7am until 7p tomorrow. The six candidates vying for the three spots are Brian Ahern, Richard Child, Bob Delves, Meehan Fee, Cath Jett, and David Schillaci.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 7:55a)

The Olathe Board of Trustees is looking for somewhat of a makeover as Mayor Don Perkins put in his resignation last week. According to the Daily Sentinel, Perkins didn’t agree with the board’s decision to keep Finance Director Pamela Woods after Scott Harold, the Town Administrator asked her to either resign or be terminated. The article quotes Perkins saying he has better things to do with his Monday evenings. He was elected Mayor of Olathe in April 2008.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 7:56a)

It’s been two years since Paige Birgfeld of Grand Junction disappeared. NBC 11 News says that the mother of three was found to be leading a double life as an escort. Investigation continues, and to date, no arrests have been made. While Birgfeld’s vehicle was found, she has yet to be located.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 7:57a)

Officials in Grand Junction say panhandling is on the rise because of the recession and they are taking steps to prohibit it. According to KJCT, City Council is expected to vote later today on the proposal that would ban anyone from soliciting money within 50 feet of roadways or 15 feet from businesses.
Source: KJCT (Posted 7:58a)

Statewide, vehicle registration fees are going up starting July 1st. Fees will be based upon the weight of your vehicle, starting at $32. The weight of your vehicle can be found under the CWT section on your registration. For all the details, visit Montrose County’s website at montrosecounty.net.
Source: PSA   (Posted 7:59a)

Four people are lucky to be alive after flipping from a raft on the Colorado River in the Grand Junction area yesterday. According to KJCT, Grand Junction and Clifton Fire Departments spent about an hour rescuing the four people who were not wearing life jackets from a small island in the river. Apparently none of the floatation devices were made for river rafting. Keep in mind that this is the time of year when river flow is at its fastest and highest due to snowmelt. It’s advised you don’t enter river waters unless you’re an expert or have an expert with you.
Source: KJCT (Posted 6:02a)

On Friday, Mesa County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Nerio “Ned” Martinez of Grand Junction on 66 felony charges related to child sexual assault. Multiple victims were interviewed and range in age from elementary to middle school age. The 36-year-old was arrested without incident and is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility with a $300,000 bond.

(Photo courtesy of Mesa County Sheriff’s Office)
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:02a)

Boulder County sheriff’s officials say a 12-year-old boy competing in a bull-riding event has died after being thrown and then stepped on by a bull. The Longmont Times-Call says Richard Hamar was competing in the Little Britches Rodeo for youth at the Boulder County Fairgrounds when he was injured yesterday. The boy was taken to a hospital where he later died. An autopsy is scheduled for today.
Source: Longmont Times-Call (Posted 6:03a)

While the bus is a goner, the driver of the Telluride Express is okay after the bus burst into flames Saturday afternoon. The Telluride Watch reports that there were no passengers on the bus as it headed towards Telluride around 3 o’clock Saturday. On the Ridgway side of Dallas Divide is where the bus caught fire. The unidentified driver used a fire extinguisher only to watch the bus burn completely before help arrived. No one was injured, but traffic was backed up for an hour and a half.
Source: Telluride Watch (Posted 6:04a)

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NEWS: Friday June 26, 2009

A woman accused of running a local massage parlor that is being investigated for prostitution waived her right to have a preliminary hearing within 30 days. The Daily Sentinel says that Chief Deputy District Attorney Dan Rubinstein said the hearing for Nan O’Reilly has been postponed because of addition details in the case and also because of a pending civil forfeiture case. O’Reilly had been arrested last November on numerous charges following a 10 month long police investigation. O’Reilly is scheduled to appear in court next on Oct. 6…..
Source: Daily Sentinel  (Posted 4:44p by Jim Kapp)

Police in Montrose say a 26–year–old woman has been stealing from her own grandmother. NBC 11 News reports that investigators have found the 90 yr. Old woman’s granddaughter was taking money from her and filling out credit card applications in her grandma’s name. The case is currently under investigation and all pertinent information has been turned over to the Montrose District Attorney’s office. At this time police have not made any arrests….
Source: NBC 11 News  (Posted 4:45p by Jim Kapp)

A report from Montrose Daily Press says that just two days after the Olathe Board of Trustees reversed his decision to fire the finance director, Olathe Mayor Don Perkins has tendered his resignation. Olathe Town Administrator Scott Harold confirmed Perkins had submitted a letter of resignation to the board and also information was forwardedto Mayor pro-tem, Dan Kelso. There was no immediate word as to whether the board has accepted the letter.
Source: Montrose Daily Press (Posted 3:35p by Jim Kapp)

Shortly before the noon hour today, deputies arrested Nerio “Ned” Martinez, 36, of Grand Junction on 66 felony charges related to child sexual assault. Martinez was arrested without incident and is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility with a $300,000.00 bond. Multiple victims were interviewed in connection to the child sexual assault charges and the victims range in age from elementary to middle school age. In an effort to protect the victims no further information is being released about them.
Source: News  Release  (Posted 3:37p by Jim Kapp)

Layoffs are possible for state employees next month as Gov. Bill Ritter plans to cut an average of 10 percent from state agencies. The Daily Sentinel reports that Ritter is planning on implanting the cuts in August. During this cutting procedure Gov. Ritter will be focusing on eliminating the least efficient and least effective programs and that could mean laying off some state workers…..
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 3:40p by Jim Kapp)

The National Weather Service in Grand Junction has issued a flash flood warning for portions of Western Colorado and Eastern Utah though this evening. Be cautious as runoff and landslides are possible in these conditions.

After 18 years of non-profit service the Surface Creek Medical Clinic closes it’s doors. According to the Delta County Independent the organization donated over $47,000 to Delta County Memorial Hospital Foundation last week. The organization was founded to recruit doctors to the Surface Creek area.
Source: Delta County Independent (Posted 11:48a)

Delta County School District 50J is looking at possibly less students next year, especially in the Paonia area, with the recent layoffs at West Elk Mine. According to the Delta County Independent, the school district recently adopted a $56 million dollar budget, saying the recession forced them to take a more conservative approach to spending.
Source: Delta County Independent (Posted 10:42a)

A federal lawsuit challenging the construction of a natural gas pipeline through roadless forest in western Colorado is closed. The Daily Sentinel says the Center for Water Advocacy; the remaining plaintiff in the case has dropped out. Claims brought by the Wilderness Workshop and other environmental groups were dismissed in August.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:43a)

Roger Dale Smith (of Grand Junction) was arrested Wednesday after a he allegedly broke into Hilltop Community Resources in Grand Junction in attempt to rape a mentally disabled woman. He was described as the man who allegedly raped another patient just twelve days prior. The Daily Sentinel says the 46-year-old is being held on a $200,000 dollar bond.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:44a)

At noon today, the public can hear a final draft presentation of an Alternative Futures Study by Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology at Ridgway Town Hall. Ouraynews.com says the objective of the study is to model regional economic, ecological, and community interactions.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 7:56a)

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest (GMUG) announced that it has re-initiated “scoping” for the Alta Lakes Access Project. The Forest published their intent to develop an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in the Federal Register on June 23, 2009. 

According to Judy Schutza, Norwood District Ranger, “Based on the initial comments and input we received on the Alta Lakes Access proposal and after reviewing them along with the criteria to determine the appropriate level of documentation for the analysis, the decision to prepare an EIS was made.” Schutza went on to state, “The Forest Service is required to re-initiate ‘scoping’ through publication of the Notice of Intent to prepare an EIS for the project.”

Review of the project proposal and opportunity to provide comment will extend through August 7, 2009. The Notice of Intent is also available on the Forest’s website under “lands” at: www.fs.fed.us/r2/gmug/policy.

Colorado Springs Police are searching for two men today after a mid-afternoon kidnapping. KKTV says an 11-year-old boy was in the kitchen of his home when the men barged in, grabbed him, and forced him into a car. The boy says he got away when they stopped at a stop sign and ran to the nearest home where a woman called 911. The boy is back home safe with his family.
Source: KKTV (Posted 7:58a)

Garfield County Crime Stoppers is searching for information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons involved in the murder of Janine Johler. Johler’s body was found in an orchard about 5 miles outside of Glenwood Springs a few weeks ago. You can call Crimestoppers and remain anonymous with any tips at 970-945-0101, and possibly receive a $1,000 reward.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 7:59a)

A Colorado woman bitten by a rattlesnake while hiking is OK after she turned around and walked more than a mile for help. According to KJCT, Susan Schwartz was bitten just below the knee while she was hiking a popular trail in Mount Falcon Park in Jefferson County Wednesday morning. Park rangers say snakebite victims should usually call 911 and try to avoid moving too much, because activity can spread venom.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 7:59a)

Governor Ritter is stopping by the Hartman Rocks recreation area today to highlight the $4 million dollars that will be coming to the Gunnison area from the Federal Recovery Act. Tonight he’ll also help kickoff the 7th Annual Gunnison River Festival. Learn more at gunnisonriverfestival.com.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:00a)

Proceeds for tomorrow’s Touch-a-Truck fundraiser in Telluride will benefit the expansion of Mountain Munchkins, an infant and toddler childcare facility in Mountain Village. According to the Telluride Watch, Saturday’s event costs just $5 and allows people to get up close and personal with big trucks such as fire engines and tractors. The preschool needs to expand because people are on yearlong waiting lists due the current size of the facility. Construction of the new preschool begins July 1st. The fundraiser is tomorrow at 10 o’clock at the Telluride Middle & High School parking lot.
Source: Telluride Watch (Posted 6:01a)

A report from the Daily Sentinel says that the Grand Junction Regional Airport is expected to receive $1.2 million to repair a portion of the existing apron that has deteriorated over a period of time. The money is expected to come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and is part of the $1.1 billion being given to the Federal Aviation Administration for them to allocated to qualified airports.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 6:01a)

Fort Carson is welcoming 3,800 new soldiers as an Army Division begins moving from Fort Hood, Texas. KJCT says the 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 4th Infantry Division is moving to Fort Carson from Fort Hood this summer. By year’s end, the post will be home to nearly 25,000 soldiers, up from 14,000 in 2003.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 6:08a)

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NEWS: Thursday June 25, 2009

Although national health care has been a puzzle for Washington for some time, one thing for sure The Telluride Medical Center won’t accept Anthem/Blue Cross and Blue Shield health insurance in its emergency room anytime soon. According to the Daily Planet, the insurance company claims the Medical Center wants double what other emergency facilities charge. The two sides were trying to reach an agreement for emergency room care. This is the 2nd time that talks have failed between the two parties. According to TMC Administrator Gordon Reichard, negotiations broke down because Anthem///Blue Cross Blue Shield wanted to pay about 50% of the center’s cost of providing ER care….
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 4:42p by Jim Kapp)

A report from the Daily Sentinel this afternoon says that the Grand Junction Regional Airport is expected to receive $1.2 million to repair a portion of the existing apron that has over a period of time deteriorated beyond repair. The money is expected to come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and is part of the $1.1 billion being given to the Federal Aviation Administration for them to allocated to qualified airports…
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 3:38p by Jim Kapp)

Nearly 42,000 lbs of beef are being recalled because they could be contaminated with e coli bacteria. According to KJCT, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture says that the JBS Swift Beef Company out of Greeley is recalling their beef products that were produced on April 21st and 22nd. Many were sent out to distributors and establishment in several states including Colorado, Arizona, and Utah. There is a rather long list of items being recalled so if you have any questions you can contact the USDA Meat and Poultry hotline at 1-888-mphotline…..
Source: KJCT (Posted 3:25p by Jim Kapp)

Two Farmington, New Mexico men have been arrested and charged with armed bank robbery, the Department of Justice announced yesterday. The men, James C. McBride, age 29, and Michael Lee Montoya, age 30, are both in custody, being held without bond pending a resolution to their cases. Both defendants have appeared in U.S. District Court in Durango, where they were advised of the charges pending against them.

McBride was charged by Criminal Complaint on June 10, 2009. Montoya was charged by Criminal Complaint on June 19, 2009. Both face armed bank robbery charges, which are punishable by not more than 25 years in federal prison, and up to a $250,000 fine.

According to the facts contained in the defendants’ affidavits, on June 8, 2009, Michael Lee Montoya entered the Community Banks of Colorado, Cortez branch, located at 1438 East Main Street. He allegedly brandished a firearm and demanded money from a teller. After obtaining the money, Montoya fled the bank to a vehicle in a nearby parking lot. James McBride allegedly was the getaway driver. Approximately 30 minutes after the robbery McBride was located and taken into custody. Montoya was later found in Farmington, New Mexico and arrested.

“These arrests are the result of tremendous effort made by members of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, the Cortez Police Department, and the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David Gaouette.

This case was investigated by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, the Cortez Police Department, the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The defendants are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Todd Norvell and Dondi Osborne.

These charges are only allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:28a)

A Fruita woman is selling her invention on QVC. According to NBC 11 News, Joy Clymer created the Party-To-Go, a container that can transport food items such as deviled eggs or cupcakes without a mess. Clymer has been working on the Party-To-Go for the past five years and has another invention in the works.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 10:28a)

A proposed change in federal law could mean that Colorado’s state-run college financial aid program will have to turn over its work to the federal government. The Daily Sentinel says the Obama administration wants to revamp the way college loans are made available to families. The changes could include eliminating middleman agencies like CollegeInvest.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:29a)

Montrose High School student, Brianna Barnes has been selected as the 10-12th Grade Colorado State Finalist in the Doodle 4 Google competition. Her doodle was selected from more than 28,000 entries from across the country.

See other doodles at http://www.google.com/doodle4google/winners_state.html
Source: Press Release   (Posted 9:39a)

Nearly 42,000 pounds of beef are being recalled because they could be contaminated with E. Coli. JBS Swift Beef Company in Greeley is recalling approximately 40,000 pounds of beef products. For the complete list of Swift recalls visit http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_034_2009_Release/index.asp.
Source: USDA (Posted 9:40a)

Norwood will receive two grants from Great Outdoors Colorado nearing $50,000. In a report by the Norwood Post, one grant, down the exact penny, will go towards a skatepark and BMX track. The other grant was awarded to Norwood’s newly formed recreation district. Other GOCO grants in San Miguel County include the County’s purchase of the rights to the Bray Ranch and bleachers for Telluride.
Source: Norwood Post (Posted 6:48a)

An inmate at a minimum-security prison in Golden escaped last night. KKTV says the Department of Corrections, state, and local law enforcement agencies are looking for 22-year-old Joshua Yapp. Yapp is 5′7″, 140lbs, blue eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing gray sweatpants, a green ball cap, and either tennis shoes or boots. He is considered dangerous and anyone who knows the whereabouts of this man is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency.

(Photo courtesy of KKTV)
Source: KKTV (Posted 6:49a)

Colorado Safeway employees have joined their counterparts at King Soopers and rejected the grocer’s latest bid in a contract dispute. KJCT reports that contracts for union workers at King Soopers, Safeway, and Albertsons expired May 9. The chains are all negotiating separately, but the contracts often have similar provisions. Last week, King Soopers employees also rejected that grocer’s offer.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 6:50a)

A day in the life of Deputy Cam Boldan…I had the opportunity to go on another ride along with the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office yesterday and compare the night ride along to the daytime ride along. One of the major differences I noticed were the amount of traffic stops performed during the day, compared to the more intense calls at night. This is the reason most deputies prefer the night shift, but all say every day is different, and that’s what makes the job fun. Boldan, a 20-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps has been keeping Montrose County safe for the past 7-½ years. Boldan asks the public to keep their eyes and ears open and pay attention to details. He said the Sheriff’s Office appreciates your calls, since they can’t be everywhere all the time, but says the calls are only helpful when they have enough information to go on. To reach the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office, in a non-emergency, call 252-4023.
AUDIO LISTEN To Deputy Boldan’s Least Favorite & Favorite Parts Of His Job
AUDIO
LISTEN To Deputy Boldan On What He Asks Of The Public
(Posted 6:51a)

Glenn Pauls has spent years accumulating over 1,100 acres of mining claims in the Ophir Valley, and decided it was time to transfer the land to the Forest Service. This past Monday, all the home sites were transferred to the Trust for Public Land, and they will transfer them into US Forest Service ownership. After TPL wrote Pauls a check for $7 million, Pauls wrote them a check for $1.6 million as a donation to pursue further land preservation projects. Pauls and others formed a group called PAPA (Public Access Preservation Association) and invites the public to check out their website at papatelluride.org.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 5:50a)

Palisade Police Chief Carroll Quarles officially announced his candidacy for Mesa County Sheriff yesterday. KJCT says Quarles has been the Chief of Police in Palisade for 14 years. Current Sheriff, Stan Hilkey is term limited, originally elected in 2002. No one else has announced his or her candidacy as of yet.
Source: KJCT (Posted 5:51a)

It’s very possible that the 2010 Olympics, which will take place in Vancouver, may actually begin in Telluride. The Telluride Watch has reported that the Telluride Ski Resort will be the site of the only U.S. hosted World Cup Olympic Qualifying event for snowboarding this coming winter. The event is scheduled to run Dec. 17-20th.
Source: Telluride Watch (Posted 5:51a)

The auto club, AAA, says they expect a national decline in travel over the 4th of July holiday weekend. According to the Daily Sentinel, the one exception may be Colorado and the surrounding mountain states. AAA is expecting 2.5 million Americans in the region to travel 50 or more miles from home during the holiday weekend. That’s an increase of just over 1% from last year.
Source: Daily Sentinel/AP   (Posted 5:54a)

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NEWS: Wednesday June 24, 2009

It’s very possible that the 2010 Olympics which will take place in Vancouver may actually begin in Telluride. The Telluride Watch has reported that the Telluride Ski Resort will be the site of the only U.S. hosted World Cup Olympic Qualifying event for snowboarding this coming winter. The event is scheduled to run Dec. 17-20th….
Source: Telluride Watch (Posted 5:17p by Jim Kapp)

The national auto club, AAA, says they expect a national decline in travel over the 4th of July holiday weekend. According to the Daily Sentinel, the one exception may be Colorado and the surrounding mountain states. AAA is expecting 2.6 million Americans in the region to travel 50 or more miles from home during the holiday weekend. That’s an increase of 1.2% from last year….
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 4:14p by Jim Kapp)

Country Jam 2009 begins on Thursday, June 25, 2009 and ends on Sunday, June 28, 2009, in Mack, CO. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office polices the event with security assistance from Foremost Response, a private security company. A combination of security staff and deputies will be patrolling the Country Jam grounds in an effort to maintain an overall safe and enjoyable environment.

Country Jam and the Sheriff’s Office have a zero tolerance policy for underage drinking that will be strongly enforced in all areas of Country Jam. Minors who are issued a summons for underage drinking will be permanently evicted from the event and the grounds. Any person attempting to re-enter the event after an eviction will be charged with trespassing. Adults supplying alcohol to minors at Country Jam will be appropriately charged and evicted from the event as well. Underage drinking enforcement at Country Jam will be a multi-agency effort funded through the Sheriff’s Office by grant money. Colorado State Liquor Enforcement officers and Grand Junction Police Department officers will participate in the joint task force with deputies.

Country Jam goers who bring their young children with them should consider registering their kids with the ‘Tag-a-Tot’ program. Tag-a-Tot is operated by the Mesa County Search and Rescue Control, Inc. who routinely return both kids to parents and parents to kids, when someone gets lost from their parent/group. Volunteers with Tag-a-Tot are located under the large tree on the south end of the Country Jam concert grounds. There is no charge for this service, but donations are accepted.

Everyone at Country Jam should stay hydrated with water, apply sunscreen, use bug spray, and drive sober. For people who may need a sober driver, they may want to consider using the Country Jam shuttle service, which operates between Fruita and Country Jam daily. Colorado State Patrol will be cracking down on drunk drivers. Also, people should always lock their vehicles and never leave anything of value in sight.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 11:23a)

Investigators with the Grand Junction Police Department are asking for assistance from the public in identifying the suspect in a robbery. On June 1st 2009 at about 12:30 am an employee of Carmike Cinemas (590 24 ½ Road) was robbed at gunpoint in the parking lot of the cinema. Taken in the robbery were bank style currency bags and clear plastic bags containing cash. The suspect was described as a White or Hispanic male 25 to 40 years of age, about 6 foot tall and weighing 210 pounds. The suspect was wearing a gray sweatshirt possibly with green accents, black pants and a black stocking cap. He was last seen fleeing on foot towards the Chili’s Restaurant.
If you have information that would help law enforcement solve this crime or have any information about another crime, call Crime Stoppers at 241-7867. Information leading to an arrest can earn you up to $1000 cash reward and you will remain completely anonymous. For more information on how to report a crime see us at WWW.241STOP.com.  (GJPD CASE # 09-032369)
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:08a)

Yesterday evening a fire broke out in Garlic Mike’s Restaurant in Montrose. The fire started in the kitchen area and broke out into the dining area causing just under $10,000 worth of damage. No injuries were reported.  The restaurant plans to be open tonight, but says if they can’t get their kitchen up and running, they’ll still serve drinks at the bar.  Garlic Mike’s: 249-4381.
Source: Montrose Fire Protection District
Source: Garlic Mike’s  (Posted 9:48a)

The Olathe Board of Trustees held a public hearing regarding the termination of Finance Director Pamela Woods yesterday evening. Earlier in the month she was given the option of resigning or being terminated. The board voted 4-3 to deny the resignation, therefore causing a termination process. The board voted 6-1, to keep Woods as the Finance Director of the town. Mayor Don Perkins was the lone vote against the decision.   (Posted 9:48a)

A 38-year-old Grand Junction man was killed in a car accident in North Dakota yesterday afternoon. Out of the three passengers, one survived. KJCT says the pickup lost control on a curve and overturned. No names have been released.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 9:49a)

Who was driving….? That’s the big question surrounding the trial of Jade Huskey, involved in a fatal car crash, involving alcohol, February 25, 2006 on I-70 near Fruita. The Daily Sentinel says Molly Gomez, who died in the wreck, was only 4′9″ and from where the seat was, science says Huskey, who is 5′11″, was driving. Huskey, whose jury trial began yesterday, pleaded not guilty to seven charges including vehicular homicide while driving under the influence.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 9:49a)

It’s Bike to Work Day today in Colorado, with events scheduled across the state. One person leaving his car keys at home is Denver City Councilman-at-Large Doug Linkhart. He says Denver and the entire state have made great strides in becoming more bike-friendly, but there’s still more work to do. Biking safety is also being stressed for Bike to Work Day.
Source: Colorado News Connection   (Posted 9:50a)

Operation Sweet Tooth with Jim Kerschner of AM 580 KUBC-The Voice of the Valley-is still underway as he is trying to reach his goal of $50,000 by Saturday, to help send care packages to troops overseas. A table loaded with fireworks from Freedom Fireworks on S. Townsend at the old Motorworks parking lot, is a part of the radio-thon. You can stop by the table and make a silent bid on the fireworks until 2 o’clock Friday. The winning bid will be donated to Operation Sweet Tooth, and the winner walks away with $500 dollars worth of fireworks. Want to make a cash donation? Call 249-5800 or stop by and drop off a check at 106 Rose Lane in Montrose.
(Posted 9:50a)

Frontier Airlines will be ending all service to Grand Junction Regional Airport on September14, 2009. Frontier Airlines began service from Grand Junction direct to Denver in May 2008.  After a slow start, the airline has seen a gradual increase in load factors; however, the slight increase has not been good enough to justify continued service.

On April 11, 2008, Frontier and its subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. On June 22, 2009 Frontier Airlines Holdings, Inc. announced it has entered into an investment agreement with Republic Airways Holdings, Inc., which is part of Frontier’s reorganization plans under Chapter 11. For additional information on Frontier’s reorganization, please visit: http://frontierairlines.com/restructure/. On June 23, 2009, Frontier announced plans to end service to Grand Junction.

Since early 2008, the airline industry has taken a beating. Faced with increased operating costs, a decrease in passenger loads, and an unstable economy, there is no doubt that the airline
industry is in trouble.

“When Frontier introduced service to Grand Junction in May 2008, they almost doubled the seat capacity overnight. In April 2008, Grand Junction added new air service to Dallas/Fort Worth on American Eagle. Grand Junction also had and still has multiple daily flights to and from Denver on United Express,” stated Rex Tippetts, Director of Aviation.

“Grand Junction is not losing service direct to a hub. United Express will continue to service the Denver market. What is important now, is that we strive to maintain the service we still have, and look for newopportunities for air service to Grand Junction.”

Frontier will continue to service GJT until September 14, 2009. If you have purchased a ticket
on Frontier Airlines out of Grand Junction, with a departure date later than September 14, 2009,
please contact Frontier Airlines: 1-800-432-1359 or online at www.frontierairlines.com.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 8:58a)

The pageantry of Telluride’s annual 4th of July parade willbe augmented this year by the addition of several 10th Mountain Division soldiers, both current and retired. Among the WWII Army veterans attending will be New York-based artist Jacques Parker who chronicled the saga of the 10th in combat with drawings and paintings.

The 10th Mountain Division soldiers will come to Telluride compliments of Mountainfilm in Telluride
in conjunction with a fundraising event at the Sheridan Opera House on July 6th that will include a
screening of George and Beth Gage’s acclaimed film, “Fire on the Mountain.” The film profiles the
Army’s legendary ski squadron and its daring mountain expeditions against Axis forces in World
War II, and focuses on its post-war accomplishments, as well. The film premiered at the
Mountainfilm festival in 1995 and won its Grand Prize.

A mix of untrained college boys and prewar America’s best skiers and mountaineers, the 10th
Mountain Division soldiers were forged into this country’s first and only alpine military unit in the
high country of Colorado and later fought with great distinction in the liberation of Italy. For all the
heroism of this much admired fighting force, however, the WWII veterans are equally remembered
for the nobility of the lives they lived in the decades after the war. Their efforts have had dramatic
and positive impacts on the Colorado landscape and on American skiing, recreation and
environmentalism.

“In combat and in civilian life, the men of the 10th Mountain Division have embodied again and
again the indomitable spirit that Mountainfilm celebrates,” said Mountainfilm executive director
Peter Kenworthy. “We are delighted and honored to welcome them to Telluride and thank them for
helping to make a great parade even greater, and for helping to support Mountainfilm’s efforts to
educate and inspire.”

Before and after riding Telluride’s Colorado Avenue on the Fourth aboard a Telluride fire engine,
the men of the 10th will meet and greet holiday celebrants at 137 W. Colorado Avenue where
Parker will also be signing his famous 1943 ski trooper poster.

For tickets to the Mountainfilm fundraiser and further information about the event, please visit
www.mountainfilm.org or call Jenny at (970) 728-4123 x 11.
Source: PSA   (Posted 6:19a)

Montrose High School students and parents are invited to an informational meeting to meet Mr. Norman Smith, the long-term substitute who will be in charge of the Montrose High School Band program during the summer. A substitute is needed as band teacher Andrew Burke has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest (June 3, 2009) on allegations of sex assault on a child by a person of trust. This informational meeting begins at 5:30pm Tuesday, June 30th.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 5:50a)

Fifteen men, ranging in ages 18-70 were arrested in Colorado Springs as part of a large Internet Crimes Against Children investigation. KKTV says four of the arrested are active duty military, but there is no evidence at this time, that government owned computers were involved. More arrests in this investigation are pending.
Source: KKTV (Posted 5:50a)

Business as usual in several Garfield County buildings today after a bomb threat yesterday. KJCT says an angry man called the courthouse saying the building would blow up sometime in the day. No suspicious items were found. This is the second bomb threat against Garfield County buildings in six months. The last one was called in in February.
Source: KJCT (Posted 5:51a)

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NEWS: Tuesday June 23, 2009

Late this afternoon police and fire vehicles were seen outside Garlic Mike’s.
Word from Fire Chief Bob Pistor is that they are investigating a possible fire in the wall at Garlic Mike’s. Smoke had been detected just outside the building. No further information is available at this time. Tune in tomorrow morning with Janine Mayfield to get the latest details….
Source: Fire Chief Bob Pistor  (Posted 5:15p by Jim Kapp)

In a late breaking story this afternoon it’s been reported that a plane with landing gear problems has landed at Grand Junction Regional Airport. According to NBC 11 News a regional dispatch got a call from the control tower that a plane had landing gear trouble. Mulitiple fire crews from Grand Junction raced to the airport and were on standby. The United Express plane with the problem did land safely….
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 4:17p by Jim Kapp)

The Garfield County courthouse, sheriff’s department and county administration building in Glenwood Springs have been evacuated because of a bomb threat. A report from The Daily Sentinel says that Sheriff Lou Vallario told the media that authorities got a call late this morning about a bomb that would go off in the courthouse this afternoon. Vallario said that the man sounded despondent but wasn’t sure if it was about a court case or not. A bomb squad and a hazards-response team has been dispatched to the buildings. Vallario also stated that they would wait for the deadline given by the caller but did not say what that deadline was…
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 3:44p by Jim Kapp)

This year’s annual 4th of July parade in Telluride will have the honor of several members from the 10th Mountain Division soldiers, both current and retired, on hand. The 10th Mountain Division soldiers will come to Telluride compliments of Mountainfilm in Telluride in conjunction with a fundraising event at the Sheridan Opera House on July 6th. During that time a screening of George & Beth Gage’s acclaimed film “Fire On The Mountain” will be shown. The film profiles the Army’s legendary ski squardron and its daring mountain expeditions against Axis forces in World War II…..
Source: Press Release  (Posted 3:32p by Jim Kapp)

The Fourth Judicial District Nominating Commission has nominated three candidates for an El Paso County Court judgeship created by the retirement of the Hon. James S. Patterson, effective June 30, 2009. Nominees Robin Lynn Chittum, Michael Flynn Feeney and Marla Rochelle Prudek, all of Colorado Springs, were selected in a June 22 meeting at the El Paso County Judicial Building.
Source: New Release  (Posted 3:30p by Jim Kapp)

The man who attempted to commit suicide in January by driving his van off a cliff in Colorado National Monument pleaded not guilty yesterday to seven charges centering around sexual assault on a child. The Daily Sentinel says a Mesa County Sheriff’s Investigator questioned Daniel Lyons January 21st. He drove off the cliff not even four hours later.  Lyons is being held on a $60,000 bond.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 12:40p)

Dolores County Commissioners denied a 30-year proposal from Outlook Resources June 11th. Ouraynews.com says Outlook Resources wanted to dig in Rico for molybdenum (a metal used to make steel stronger) saying there’s millions to be made there. Over half the town showed up for the discussion and were pleased with the outcome.  People spoke against a new mine saying it would increase traffic and cause pollution.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 11:00a)

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Units responded to the Coulter Mesa area, northwest of Rifle Gap Reservoir this past Sunday after 3 hikers called in to say they were lost and had spent the night in the cold and the rain. About eight hours had passed from the time the call was received to when the hikers were rescued. All three hikers were found in good condition.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:48a)

The Telluride Regional Airport has been receiving some federal funding to assist with construction on the runway, but they’re asking for more federal funding for the final phase of the project. According to the Telluride Watch, the airport has an opportunity to serve two commercial airlines beginning as soon as the 2010/2011-ski season. Telluride serves as the nation’s highest altitude commercial airport, and receiving additional airlines is an opportunity that doesn’t come by often. The Telluride Regional Airport Authority Board asked elected officials from San Miguel County, Telluride, Mountain Village, and Norwood to write to Colorado’s Congressional representatives to add pressure to receive the funding in 2010.
Source: Telluride Watch
Source: USA Today (Posted 6:48a)

Montrose Memorial Hospital reported that overall surgeries for the month of May were pretty much even with surgeries performed in May 2008. The Chief of Staff report indicates that Emergency Room visits were up last month, and appear to be higher in general than in 2008. Baby deliveries were down by 12 compared to May 2008, and are down significantly for the year compared to this time last year.
Emergency Statistics:
May 2009 ER visits: 1,371
May 2008 ER visits: 1,276
YTD 2009 ER visits: 6,574
YTD 2008 ER visits: 6,136
Obstetrical Statistics:
May 2009 deliveries: 36
May 2008 deliveries: 48
YTD 2009 deliveries: 186
YTD 2008 deliveries: 233
May 2009 C-Section Rate-39% (2009 YTD-32%)
May 2008 C-Section Rate-31% (2008 YTD-33%)
May 2009 Primary C-Section Rate-11% (2009 YTD-16%)
May 2008 Primary C-Section Rate-17% (2009 YTD-21%)
Surgery Statistics:
Total:
May 2009-204
May 2008-205
YTD 2009-1,051
YTD 2008-1,101
Cardiology:
Total:
May 2009-26
May 2008-13
YTD 2009-143
YTD 2008-158
(Posted 6:50a)

At 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2009, Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter will sign the proclamation recognizing June 22-28, 2009 as Missing Children’s Week in Colorado in the west foyer of the Capitol. The week long event, sponsored by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation in cooperation with the Missing Children Task Force, is designed to promote a heightened awareness to the dangers of missing children in Colorado and to the challenges faced by families with missing children.

Last year in Colorado alone, there were 13,933 reports of missing children under the age of 18. On a single day, the actual number of children reported missing in Colorado averages 38, according to Kristina Bomba, CBI’s AMBER Alert Program Coordinator. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, more than 2,000 children are reported missing every day in the United States.

Information and registration forms are available at: www.childfinders.org or www.cbi.state.co.us click on 2009 Missing Children’s Week.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:53a)

The Grand Junction Police Department is investigating an attempted armed robbery that occurred at 757 Horizon Drive. At about 12:42am, after the restaurant had closed, the suspect threw a rock through the front door and gained access to the business. The suspect then contacted an employee who was in the office and pointed a handgun at the employee, demanding that the employee open the safe and give him the money inside. When the employee did not open the safe, the suspect fled the area and went north towards Crossroads Blvd.  The suspect is described as an Hispanic male, 5’8” tall, 140 pounds, wearing a black ski mask, a dark colored shirt, and grey pants. The suspect used an unknown type handgun during this crime.  If anyone has any information about this person, please call the Grand Junction Police Department at 970-242-6707 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-241-7867.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 5:50a)

Daniel Pratt and his wife Wendy Ward were two HOG ralliers who were enjoying the weekend’s festivities until they were involved in an accident on Townsend Avenue Saturday afternoon. According to police reports, Guadalupe Hermosillo was coming out of a driveway into traffic on Townsend when she ran into the couple on their Harley. In the report, Hermosillo said she was motioned to enter the roadway by a driver of another vehicle and did not see the motorcycle. Pratt and Ward were thrown onto the hood of Hermosillo’s vehicle, landing in the median. Ward was taken to Montrose Memorial and Pratt was flown to a Denver hospital with life threatening injuries. The accident is still under investigation.
Source: Montrose Police Department Accident Report   (Posted 5:51a)

Rosalie Rowley of Montrose died over the weekend after an ATV accident in Somerset. The Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office responded and found that the 67-year-old was distributing salt blocks for cattle when the six-wheeler flipped over. Reports indicate she may have used a front brake while descending a steep incline, which resulted in the salt block sliding forward contributing to the instability of the six-wheeler.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 5:51a)

Colorado Springs officials backed away from a proposal that would’ve let residents shoot and kill coyotes. KJCT says the Colorado Springs City Council did not take an official vote on the measure Monday, saying they had more pressing matters. The proposal would have allowed people to shoot aggressive coyotes with a special permit and only with a .22-caliber firearm.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 5:52a)

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NEWS: Monday June 22, 2009

Workers at City Market grocery stores voted to keep negotiations going and have rejected a contract that was offered by parent company Kroger. NBC 11 News has reported that according to UFCW Communications Director Laura Chapin City Market workers overwhelmingly rejected the proposed contract. Safeway workers also were expected to vote on a proposed contract offer from their company but the results of that voting will not be available for a few days…..
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 4:33p by Jim Kapp)

Thursday, June 25, 2009, Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter will sign the proclamation recognizing June 22-28, 2009 as Missing Children’s Week in Colorado in the west foyer of the Capitol. The week long event, sponsored by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation in cooperation with the Missing Children Task Force, is designed to promote a heightened awareness to the dangers of missing children in Colorado and to the challenges faced by families with missing children.  Last year in Colorado alone, there were 13,933 reports of missing children under the age of 18.
Source: Press Release  (Posted 4:35p by Jim Kapp)

Early Sunday morning Garfield County Emergency Communications Center received a cell phone call from 3 hikers who were lost in the Coulter Mesa area north west of Rifle Gap Reservoir. A search of the area was initiated by a team of 7 Search and Rescue members and by late Sunday afternoon the hikers were found and reportedly in good condition….
Source: News Release  (Posted 4:17p by Jim Kapp)

Daniel Pratt and his wife Wendy were two HOG ralliers who were enjoying the weekend’s festivities until they were involved in a two vehicle accident on Townsend Sat. afternoon. According to police reports, Guadalupe Hermosillo was coming out of a driveway into traffic on Townsend when she ran into the couple on their Harley. In the report, Hermosillo said she was motioned to enter the roadway by the driver of a white truck and she did not see the motorcycle. Pratt and Ward were thrown onto the hood of Hermosillo’s vehicle, then across it and into the Median. Ward was taken to Montrose Memorial and her husband Daniel Pratt was flown to a Denver hospital with life threatening injuries. The accident is still under investigation…..
Source: Press Release  (Posted 3:37p by Jim  Kapp)

Plans for a new animal shelter fro Second Chance Humane Society remain in limbo. According to Ouraynews.com officers of that organization say it will be at least 2 or 3 years before construction could begin. According exec. Director, Kelly Goodin, there is still not enough funding for the actual construction of the facility and there is a lack of sufficient cash reserve to cover operating expenses of the facility for at least 2 years once the building is constructed and the facility opens. A lot purchase for a new shelter in the Industrial Park in Ridgway is inadequate. The current location of the animal shelter on Sherman Ave. averages 10 dogs and about 30 cats in shelter…
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 3:40p by Jim Kapp)

The Montrose Summerfest is back! Local merchants decided it was up to them to keep the July 4th event in town, and have donated hundreds of items as prizes to contribute to the event. The event will be slightly different than in years past, and even in a different location. Montrose Summerfest will be July 4th from 11-3 at River Landing behind Target next to the river. At 3 o’clock, a helicopter will drop 5000 ping-pong balls, all with a donated prize written on it from a local merchant. The public is encouraged to attend this event to celebrate our nation’s freedom and local merchants.
Source: PSA   (Posted 11:42a)

In terms of fundraising, the past twelve months were tremendous for Fort Lewis College. For the second time in the past year, the College was awarded $1 million for its new student union.

The first $1 million dollar contribution came in late 2008 from the Ottens Foundation and is designated for the new Native American Center that will inhabit the new student union.

The latest $1 million contribution is a capital challenge grant awarded to the College-specifically to the student union building-from the Kresge Foundation based in Troy, Michigan. The grant will be awarded if Fort Lewis is able to raise its challenge campaign goal, $566,470, by March 31, 2011. The Foundation funds projects all over the world and in a range of areas, such as the arts, the environment, health, community development and education.

“The Kresge Foundation is proud to support Fort Lewis College, an institution with such an impressive historical commitment to the educational success of Native Americans,” says Caroline Altman Smith, Kresge Program Officer. “This challenge grant is designed to spur additional private investment in Fort Lewis College so that it may continue to be a gateway of opportunity for a diverse student body and to serve as a critical community anchor in southwestern Colorado.”

“We hope this $1 million challenge grant will encourage other donors, including alumni, foundations, corporations and other individuals committed to Native Americans and southwestern Colorado, to support the Fort Lewis College union renovation,” adds Bill Moses, Kresge Program Director for Education.

The Kresge Foundation studies the overall merit of each grant request it receives, but where educational projects are concerned, focuses on four main questions.
1. Does the request create opportunities and access for underserved students?
2. Does the request reflect the institution’s commitment to diversity?
3. Does the request reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability?
4. Does the request make a positive impact on the community it serves?

FLC’s new student union satisfied each of these questions so successfully that the Kresge Foundation awarded the project $1 million, double the $500,000 the College had requested.

“I was so shocked I could hardly believe what I was hearing when the program officer called immediately after their board meeting to tell us that not only our grant was awarded, but also that the amount had been doubled to $1,000,000,” recalls Angie Rochat, director of the FLC Office of Sponsored Research and Federal Relations. “She said that the project was supported because of the College’s commitment to diversity, its LEED certification, and the innovation of the media center and its potential impact on the community.”

The new building will be bigger and better in every way than the existing College Union Building (CUB). More than half of the assignable space will go to student services, including the Native American Center and El Centro de Muchos Colores, the College’s Hispano resource center.

Diversity in its student body has always been important to Fort Lewis College. Since its days as an Indian boarding school, the College has offered Native Americans a tuition-free education. Consequently, 20 percent of the student body is Native American and FLC ranks #1 among bachelor-degree granting institutions in the awarding of bachelor degrees to Native American students. The College also has a significant Hispanic student population.

“This is Kresge’s first grant ever to Fort Lewis and we are delighted to support an institution that has been so deeply committed to educating Native Americans for more than a century,” says Mr. Moses. “It has the proud and enviable distinction of awarding more BAs to Native American students than any other college, and plays a significant role in supporting Native American culture, both in Colorado and nationally.”

The new student union addition is being built to a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold standard. The LEED system was created by the U.S. Green Building Council to measure how “green” a building is. Since President Bartel signed the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment in 2007, the College has been working to find environmentally-friendly ways to conduct its business.

The existing College Union Building has always been a favorite place for community groups to hold their meetings, dinners, celebrations, etc. During a typical school year month, more than half of the groups using the CUB will be off-campus groups from all over the Four Corners region. Nearly all of the groups using the CUB during the summer are off-campus. The new student union will enhance this relationship with better facilities.

The new student union will also house a media center that will bring together not only College organizations (KDUR, the Independent, and the Intertribal News), but also community groups (Rocky Mountain PBS and Durango Community Access Television).

Construction on the new Fort Lewis College student union has already begun. A 38,000 sq. foot addition will be completed in 2010 and connect to a totally renovated College Union Building. The renovations will proceed in several phases and be finished in 2011.



(Photos courtesy of Fort Lewis College)
Source: Press Release   (Posted 11:25a)

Tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods can disrupt normal methods of communication. That is when Amateur Radio comes to the rescue. Across the nation, thousands of Ham Radio operators will be showing off their emergency capabilities during “Field Day”, June 27 and 28, 2009. Everyone is invited to visit the Montrose Amateur Radio Club (MARC) as club members operate from Sunset Mesa under simulated emergency conditions.

Field Day is a nationwide event that involves ham radio operators across the United States. More that 30,000 hams are expected to participate. Using only emergency power supplies, ham operators will construct radio stations in parks, shopping malls, schools and back yards around the country. Their slogan, “When all else fails…”is more than just words to hams as they prove they can send messages in many forms without the use of phone systems, internet or any other infrastructure that is frequently compromised during a disaster.

According to Lew French, President of MARC, “We will start setting up equipment at 8:00 AM Saturday and will begin operating at noon. Saturday afternoon would be a good time to visit us and see how we are able to provide radio communications while completely off of the power grid. Operations will continue for twenty four hours, until noon on Sunday.”

Hams frequently are called upon to provide emergency communications during times of disaster. Most recently this has occurred during the ongoing mid-west floods. “Whether it is Morse code, voice, or the most recently developed digital methods, ham radio can get the message through when all else fails. This has been proven time and time again”, said French.

To visit the local hams in action drive west on West Main Street, turn left onto Chipeta Drive, and then left again up to Sunset Mesa. “We will be operating from the top of the mesa north of the athletic fields. Just look for the antennas”, said French. “The communications networks that hams can quickly create have saved many lives when other systems failed or were overloaded. Come see ham radio’s capabilities and learn how to get your own ham radio license before the next disaster strikes” he added.

There are more than 600,000 Amateur Radio operators in the US and more than 2.5 million around the world. Hams assist the Department of Homeland Security, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, FEMA and thousands of state and local agencies, all for free. To learn more about Amateur Radio, go to www.emergency-radio.org, or www.montrosearc.org.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:41a)

Durango Police Officers arrested two males allegedly responsible for a string of thefts from vehicles on June 17, 2009. Clifford C. Lewis, 27, and Colton Toliver, 26, were arrested on June 18, 2009 after Toliver tried to sell a blackberry cell phone back to its owner. The owner contacted police who took Toliver into custody without incident when he showed up for the meeting. A search of Toliver’s apartment led to the recovery of property stolen from several vehicles that were parked in the 600 block of Main Avenue, College Drive and East 3rd Avenue as well as the 600 block of East 8th Avenue.  Lewis was arrested at the apartment and credit cards reported stolen to the La Plata County Sheriff’s office were recovered in his wallet. They had been used at several locations in Durango.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:18a)

Over the past two months Ouary County EMS paramedics Kim Mitchell and Norm Rooker completed several Hazardous Materials Incident response training programs at the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP), located in Anniston, Alabama. Kim became the 6th member of OC EMS to complete the OSHA Hazardous Materials Technician course and Norm completed a Haz Mat Technician refresher course that included a final exercise working with real Sarin and VX nerve agents.

OC EMS, is a combination, paid & volunteer, EMS provider that does far more than just provide a ride to the hospital. The service is comprised of 4 full time Advanced Life Support, ALS, providers, EMT-Intermediates and paramedics, who both provide care at the ALS level, administration of the service as well as oversee the training and supervision of the volunteers. The volunteer corps currently consists of 67 volunteer drivers, rural first responders, EMT basics, ALS providers, vehicle extrication specialists and Hazardous Materials Response specialists as well as providing the medical training and support for the Ouray Mountain Rescue Team.

OC EMS provides an Operations level Hazardous Materials Response Team. Operations means that the actions are primarily defensive. Rescuing and decontaminating exposed victims/patients before handing them over to the ambulance crew for further evaluation and possible transport to the hospital. Additionally, the team provides initial product identification and defensive containment of the product until Technician level Haz Mat responders arrive.

The closest Technician level teams are the Colorado State Patrol two trooper/specialist Haz Mat units out of Cortez and Grand Junction and the Durango and Grand Junction Fire Department teams. The OC EMS operations level Haz Mat team needs to be capable of “holding the fort” for a minimum of 4 hours until, if needed, these additional resources can arrive on scene and take over. At which point OC EMS will go into a support mode providing decontamination services and medical monitoring of the technicians.

Historically Ouray County averages a Haz Mat incident once every year to 18 months. So how does the service balance this rather costly service within the department’s overall budget while still meeting the day to day needs of standard EMS operations? By taking full advantage of the low to no cost training opportunities provided every other year by the Western Slope Hazardous Materials Association. Last September OC EMS sent three members out to a 3 day training program in liquid truck trailer response and mitigation for just the cost of the fuel to drive the members there and back.

Additionally, OC EMS takes advantage of grant opportunities. In 2007 and again in 2008, OC EMS was the recipient of FEMA CEDAP, Commercial Equipment Distribution Assistance Program grants that provided both chemical and radiological detection and monitoring equipment and the training to operate and maintain them.

However, the main source of high quality, no cost training has been the Department of Homeland Security’s Weapons of Mass Destruction training programs. These programs include not only the actual trainng but transportation, food, lodging, tuition and materials. Everything but a souvenir T-shirt.

One of those providers is the Center for Domestic Preparedness located at the former Fort McClellan, the US Army’s Chemical Warfare training facility. When the post was closed down, FEMA stepped in and maintained the training dormitories, classrooms and HOT facility.

The CDP offers over 20 different chemical agent training response and management programs for multiple disciplines including law enforcement, fire suppression, EMS, public health, emergency managers and public works. On the law enforcement side of the house, just imagine crime scene investigation and evidence gathering while wearing three sets of gloves while breathing bottled air and fully encapsulated in a plastic suit.

OC EMS has taken full advantage of these programs, sending 6 members for the Haz Mat Technician course with a seventh member to go this winter. Additionally we have sent three members to the TERT, Training in Emergency Response to Terrorism, two for the EMS for WMD, prehospital recognition, protective measures and treatment for patients exposed to chemical, biological and radioactive agents, as well as several other courses.

A number of these training programs conclude with an all day series of training evolutions at the HOT facility where responders work through scenarios in sampling, patient movement, decontamination and WMD event crime scene documentation while working with real Sarin and VX nerve agents.

On successful completion of the scenarios at the CDP’s HOT facility, graduates are awarded the coveted COBRA pin. COBRA, like just about everything with the Federal Government is an acronym which stands for Chemical, Ordinance (explosives) Biological and RAdiological.

Five members of OC EMS have earned the COBRA pin and Norm Rooker becomes the first member to earn the COBRA star pin for two or more successful course completions at the HOT facility.

Other DHS WMD courses that OC EMS members have attended or will be attending include the Explosives WMD program run by New Mexico Tech in Soccorro, NM and a radiological response course held at the nuclear test facility outside of Las Vegas, NV. All at no expense to the county/EMS budget.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:03a)

The National Association for Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) recently announced the results of the 2008-09 Learfield Sports Directors Cup Competition for the NCAA Division II. Western State College placed 12th out of nearly 300 eligible colleges and universities for the 2008-09 year of competition. Four others in the RMAC placed in the top 50-Adams State College (8th), Metro State College (13th), Nebraska-Kearney (28th), and Mesa State College (50th).

Western State College is one of only two NCAA Division II institutions to place in the top 25 in each of the past 14 years that the Director’s Cup has been awarded and has one of the highest national average finishes including the best in the RMAC. Previous finishes include three “top 5″, six “top 10″, nine “top 12″ and fourteen “top 25″ honors.

WSC Athletic Director Greg Waggoner acknowledged, “We continue to be proud of the efforts of our student-athletes and coaches as WSC continues to be recognized nationally as a premier intercollegiate athletic program. We are also proud of many other dimensions of our athletic program that bring these competitive accomplishments into full context, such as our high graduate rates, high rates of community engagement and service, and the overall development of our Champion Leaders of Tomorrow.”
Source: Press Release   (Posted 10:00a)

The body discovered in the Canyon Creek area approximately 5 miles west of Glenwood Springs in Garfield County has been identified. 38-year-old Janine Johler was identified through fingerprints. The Post Independent says Johler, a disabled woman, filed three requests for restraining orders against 51-year-old Thomas Burns in the past several years. However, the article confirms that Burns was in jail May 1st, the last known day of Johler’s whereabouts. He’s been in the Araphahoe County Jail since January 18th. If anyone has information in regards to this crime, please contact the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 945-0453 or Garfield County Crime Stoppers at (970) 945-0101.

(Photo Courtesy of Garfield County Sheriff’s Office)
Source: Press Release
Source: Post Independent contributed to this story  (Updated Post 6:59a)

Durango Police need the public’s help in locating a man who stabbed someone on Main Avenue Friday night. The two men, who didn’t know each other, had a brief conversation before the suspect produced a butterfly knife and stabbed Ryan Digaetano in the left side of his chest. Digaetano was transported to Mercy Medical Center where he was treated and released. The suspect is described as an Asian or dark-skinned Hispanic male, dark hair, stocky build, 5′6″-5′10″, wearing a distinctive black leather jacket and black jeans. He is believed to have piercings in his eyebrows and lip. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call 970-375-4730.
Source: Press Release   (Posted 6:59a)

Utah Investigators believe the two Colorado residents who were found dead in their tent may have died from carbon monoxide poisoning. ABC 4 News out of Utah says victims, 28-year-old Steven Dowdy of Clifton, and 10-year-old Darian Thomlinson of Grand Junction were attending a paintball tournament when they fell asleep with a propane heater on inside their tent.  Authorities say you should never put a heater directly in your tent and if possible, try to find other ways to stay warm.
Source: ABC 4 News (Posted 6:59a)

Several items of importance will grace tomorrow’s Telluride Town Council agenda. The Daily Planet says Telluride officials want to crack down on carbon use and find ways to create more renewable energy. The town has already committed to cut emissions by 20% over 2005 levels by 2020. The proposed Renewable Energy Mitigation Program will implement fees for things such as heated driveways, garages, and pools depending on how much carbon each generates per year. Also being discussed tomorrow is a possible sales tax to even out the town’s budget, as well as a consideration on signing off on the conservation easement on the Valley Floor.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 7:00a)

The Colorado Boy brewery will soon be serving food and wine as Ridgway Town Council approved a change in the liquor license. Ouraynews.com says that the brewpub can also apply for a permit to allow alcohol on their sidewalk area. Town Council approved the liquor license change last week.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 5:46a)

An Adams County 5-year-old is OK after being in a car that was stolen. According to KJCT, police say a drunken 28-year-old transient woman stole a Ford Focus Sunday morning from a condo complex in unincorporated Adams County. Apparently the keys to the Focus were in the car. The woman told police she returned the car when she noticed the child. The accused kidnapper has not been named but faces kidnapping, theft, and DUI charges.
Source: KJCT/AP   (Posted 5:46a)

Construction on phase three of Canyon View Marketplace will continue even though REI backed out at the last minute. In a report by the Daily Sentinel, REI was to cover 27,000 square feet of the 75,000 square foot plaza on Market Street in Grand Junction. The city was about to issue REI a planning clearance for the project when they backed out. Four commercial buildings are set to be constructed during the third phase of the shopping center.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:47a)

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