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NEWS: Wednesday September 30, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 30th, 2009

It’s been confirmed that a child in Rifle who died last Tuesday had the H1N1 flu virus. The Daily Sentinel says it’s unknown whether the child died as a direct result of the illness, or underlying health conditions or other factors caused or contributed to the death. No other students in the child’s school appear to have symptoms. Apparently in Garfield County alone, five people have been hospitalized for the flu, only two being confirmed as H1N1.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:16p)

Local and Federal Law Enforcement Agencies arrested five Telluride residents today on drug and firearm violations. Two local businesses and two residences were searched upon warrants issued by the court. Over 15 pounds of cocaine was seized during the investigations. Estimated street value of the seized drugs exceeds $900,000.

The arrests and search warrants stem from a multi month investigation of a drug distribution ring by the above agencies after local residents complained of drug trafficking by some of the individuals arrested. During the course of the investigation agents learned that firearms were allegedly being purchased in the United States and sold in Mexico by some of the members of the drug ring. Agents have recovered four firearms.

Arrestees:
Eric Cristobal Sanchez, 34 of Telluride charged with distribution of cocaine within 1000 feet of a school F2, conspiracy to distribute cocaine F3, distribution of cocaine F3 and unlawful purchase of firearms F4, Resisting arrest M2.
Gilberto Garcia Garcia, 34 of Telluride charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine F3.
Enrique Hernandez AKA Kiki, 21 of Telluride charged with distribution of cocaine within 1000 feet of a school F2, conspiracy to distribute cocaine F3, distribution of cocaine F3, unlawful possession of cocaine with intent to distribute F3 and unlawful purchase of firearms F4.
Marico Antonio Garcia-Garcia AKA Tono, 26 of Telluride charged with distribution of cocaine within 1000 feet of a school F2, conspiracy to distribute cocaine F3, distribution of cocaine F3, unlawful possession of cocaine with intent to distribute F3.
Maria Vargas Gonzalez AKA Maria Sanchez, 33 of Telluride charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine, other charges pending.

Bond: Bond is set at $5,000,000 for each defendant.

Search Warrants: A total of 4 search warrants were conducted at the following locations:
280 S. Mahoney #6E (Residence) Telluride
560 W. Columbia Ave. (Residence) Telluride
138 E. Colorado Ave (Business) Telluride
142 E. Colorado Ave (Business) Telluride

Agencies:
-Seventh Judicial District Drug Task Force
-San Miguel County Sheriff’s Department
-Telluride Marshal’s Department
-Mountain Village Police Department
-Montrose Police Department
-DEA
-ICE
-ATF
-Durango Police Department
-Southwest Drug Task Force
-Western Colorado Drug Task Force
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:14p)

Overpayment Scam

What is an Overpayment Scam?
An overpayment scam can look many ways, but most recently it has hit Mesa County and looks like…someone legitimately places a personal ad in a local newspaper and gets a call from a prospective buyer. That buyer claims to be unavailable for whatever reason. The buyer makes plans to send a friend or agent to pick up the item that is listed for sale, but prior to the pick-up a money order is shipped for payment. The money order is usually made out to be a few thousand dollars more than the item is listed for sale, and the money order is intended to cover the cost of the item, agent fees, wire transfer fees, etc. The seller is instructed and agrees to deposit the money order into their personal account, keep the agreed upon amount for payment, and then wire the difference to the buyer in their oversees location, but the money gets wired before the bank notifies the seller that the money order is fraudulent.
How can it be used to commit a fraud?
The “buyer” and the buyer’s “agent” are most likely never in the United States, which is why they use a relay system when calling the seller and ship the money order for payment via UPS or Fed Ex. Providing a fake money order and getting the legitimate seller to hand over their own cash , after keeping the ‘difference of the payment’ (i.e. handling fees, agent fees, etc.), is fraud. The “agent” never shows up to pick-up the item that was supposedly purchased. In Mesa County, three of these such reports were made with the Sheriff’s Office today (9-30-09).
What can I do to prevent this fraud from happening to me?
When selling an item to an unknown buyer, have them pay in cash or hold the item until the check, cashiers check or money order, clears your bank account. Be cautious about accepting payment for more than you are selling your item. And don’t agree to forward money to anyone when you are selling an item. For more information about various overpayment scams visit: http://www.brighthub.com/internet/security-privacy/articles/6152.aspx. To report a Fraud in Mesa County, contact: Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Main Number at (970) 244-3500.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:09p)

Contractor Scam
What is a Contractor Scam?
The most recent version of this old scam, is a subject contacts a ‘victim’ at their residence. The subject offers to re-pave their driveway for a small fee. The subject claims that he/she is doing a paving project nearby and will have an extra amount of concrete. Thus, selling it to the victim for a “deal.”
How can it be used to commit a fraud?
The victim pays for the driveway to be re-done, but it is never done or done poorly. Once a person enters an agreement with a contractor for services and those services aren’t provided satisfactorily it is a civil issue and not a criminal issue in most cases. However, warning people of this potential situation is important as the Sheriff’s Office took one report of this potential scam today (9-30-09).
What can I do to prevent this fraud from happening to me?
Use a reputable contractor from a personal reference and/or through the Better Business Bureau do research on a company before contracting with them. When considering a contractor, ask for references and check them. Don’t accept business solicitations from your front door/porch, and don’t be rushed into making a decision-ever. Verify the business through the Better Business Bureau and check or customer complaints too. Seek out contractors on your own, don’t allow someone soliciting you at your door to tell you what services you need. Report anyone suspicious to local law enforcement. To report a Fraud in Mesa County, contact: Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Main Number at (970) 244-3500.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:08p)

Mesa State College (main campus) Spokeswoman Dana Nunn has confirmed with us that the college has received one confirmed case of H1N1 on campus. Nunn also says that another student claims to have the H1N1 as well but the college has not received any medical confirmation on that case. Neither student is in the hospital at this time. She says the school is not in panic mode as both students live off-campus and they have been proactive since day one, providing students, staff, and faculty with hand sanitizer. The school has also been continuously educated on how to protect themselves from the H1N1. She does say flu season is around the corner, and students are bound to catch it. If a student, staff, or faculty member feels like the may have the H1N1 they are advised to go to the Health Sciences Department for further review. (Posted 4:01p)

Colorado today joins a growing list of states across the country that have implemented Katie’s Law. Taking effect today, Senate Bill 241, known as Katie’s Law, will institute the collection of certain DNA information from people who are arrested on felony charges.

Bill sponsors, Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Cortez, and Rep. Steve King, R-Grand Junction, say that this new law will protect the public by clearing more open and cold cases than any other single piece of legislation in Colorado history.

“DNA collection provides law enforcement with a powerful tool that they can use to positively identify suspects,” Tipton said. ”DNA is the best evidence and I am excited that this law is going to save lives.”

Katie’s Law is named for murder victim Katie Sepich. A New Mexico State University graduate student, Katie Sepich was 22 when she was raped and murdered in 2003. DNA evidence from the case was recovered from under her fingernails. Her killer was later arrested for burglary in another case. Only after his conviction was his DNA collected and a match made in the Sepich murder.

Since then, Katie’s mother, Jayann Sepich, has advocated for stronger DNA collection across the U.S.

“Collection of DNA evidence is a scientific tool that can be used effectively for justice,” King said. “This is an important step toward not only convicting those who are guilty, but freeing the innocents who have been wrongly accused.”

The new law also contains provisions for the expunging of DNA records and destruction of the DNA evidence if a defendant is not convicted of a felony.
Source: Press Release (Posted 3:37p)

The Colorado Department of Agriculture is encouraging livestock owners to discuss animal health concerns with their local veterinarian after two rabies cases have been confirmed in livestock.

In September, a horse in El Paso County was euthanized after lab tests confirmed it had rabies. Public health experts believe the horse was exposed to a skunk on its home property in Black Forest area. Colorado has not recorded a horse with rabies in at least 25 years.

An El Paso County cow has also been infected with the rabies disease. The cow, located south of Calhan, has been euthanized. While the specific type of rabies is still unknown, it is possible that the cow was exposed to a skunk.

“The Department would like to stress two very important points,” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr. “One-livestock owners need to be aware that rabies is transferring from one species to another and monitor their own animals for symptoms; and two-local veterinarians are a valuable resource to help producers decide the best course of action to protect their herds from rabies.”

Rabies is a viral disease in mammals and infects the brain and other parts of the central nervous system, causing brain swelling and damage, and ultimately, death. The clinical appearance of rabies typically falls into two category types: “aggressive” and “dumb.” Aggressive rabies symptoms include combativeness and violent behavior and a sensitivity to touch and other kinds of stimulation. There is also a “dumb” form of the disease in which the animal is lethargic, weak in one or more limbs, and unable to raise its head or make sounds because its throat and neck muscles are paralyzed.

“Animal owners need to primarily look for any dramatic behavioral changes. That is typically one of the hallmark signs that the animal may be suffering from rabies,” said Roehr.

Rabies is spread primarily through the bite of rabid animals, resulting in the spread of the disease through their infected saliva. Rabies also can be spread when saliva from an infected animal gets into open wounds, cuts or enters through membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth. No cure exists for rabies once symptoms appear although there is a vaccine to prevent the infection. Livestock and pet owners are urged to discuss the vaccine with their local veterinarian.

El Paso County health officials have recorded eight confirmed cases of rabies in skunks in 2009. According to the El Paso County Health Department, prior to this summer, the last time a rabid skunk was reported in El Paso County was 1970.

In addition to ensuring that pets and livestock are vaccinated properly against rabies, the Health Department recommends these prevention steps:

Don’t feed wild animals or allow your pets around them. Be sure to teach children to stay away from wild mammals.
Contact your veterinarian if your dog or cat is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, such as skunks, bats, foxes or raccoons.
If you suspect you’ve been exposed to rabies, contact your physician without delay.
Discuss rabies vaccination of your livestock with your veterinarian. Vaccination should be considered for horses and other equines, breeding livestock, dairy cattle or other high-value livestock.
If you observe a wild mammal acting strangely, especially a skunk, or if you find a dead skunk that isn’t on your property, stay away from it. Strange behavior for a skunk would include being out and about during daytime hours.
If you must remove a dead skunk on your property, wear rubber gloves or lift the carcass with a shovel or other tool, and double-bag it for the trash.

Additional Resources:
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment:
General information:
http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/dc/zoonosis/rabies/
Map of Colorado Skunk Rabies, 2007-2009:
http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/dc/zoonosis/rabies/2007_2009_skunkrabies.pdf
Source: Press Release (Posted 3:36p)

Montrose County Commissioners unanimously approved the special use permit with 19 conditions for Energy Fuels to construct a uranium mill in the west end of the county. Commissioner Gary Ellis says the company now has to approach the State Department of Public Health and Environment to get approval on actually utilizing the facility. Ellis said approval on that could take up to two years. (Posted 11:45a)

With the announcement of the final candidates for County Manager, the Board of County Commissioners is encouraging the public to meet the finalists at an open reception being held at The Bridges Banquet Room Wednesday, September 30 at 6:00 p.m.

All three candidates (John McCue, Orange City, Florida–James Patrick, Kalispell, Montana–Jesse Smith, Montrose, Colorado) will be present to meet and interact with community members and leaders. The community meet-and-greet is just one piece in an extensive final interview process. Each final candidate will also undergo an interview with the hiring committee followed by a 60-minute presentation and question/answer session with County Department Heads and Elected Officials. In addition, finalists will have a second interview with the Board of County Commissioners. The interview process will conclude with a tour of Montrose County.

For more information on the candidate reception, please contact Montrose County at (970) 249-7755.
Source: Press Release (Posted 11:07a)

When Julie Kochevar got a divorce, she remained close to her ex-mother-in-law - close enough to donate a kidney to her. The Daily Sentinel says the Grand Junction woman will give Wanda Elsberry a kidney in an operation scheduled for late October in Denver. The waiting list for a kidney is four to five years in Colorado.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 11:05a)

“Little Switzerland” Hosts 2nd Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run & Ouray Oktoberfest this Weekend -Ouray Mountain Trail Run to benefit local youth outdoor programs-
WHAT: 2nd Annual Ouray Mountain Trail Run, Ouray Oktoberfest & 45th Annual Jeep Raffle
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009 – Trail run starts at 10 a.m., Oktoberfest & 45th Annual Jeep Raffle begin at 5 p.m. at the Ouray Community Center
WHERE: Ouray, Colo., is located in southwestern Colorado along US Highway 550, approximately 80 miles north of Durango and 35 miles south of Montrose.
WHY: The Ouray Trail Run, a 14-mile endurance trail race, is organized to support local Ouray youth recreation programs and events. The challenging course (comparable in difficulty to the annual Imogene Pass run) starts at Ouray Hot Springs Park and circumnavigates the beautiful town of Ouray.
HOW: Runners may register for the race on Friday, October 2 from 5-7 p.m. at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, or on the morning of the race between 8-9:30a.m. The entry fee is $50, which includes aid stations throughout the course, an official race t-shirt, and a BBQ for all runners after the event.
ABOUT OURAY MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUN: All race proceeds go directly to local outdoor youth recreational programs and local youth recreational clubs. The 2008 Ouray Trail Run donated $2,000 to local youth outdoor programs in Ouray. For more information, visit www.ouraytrailrun.com.
ABOUT OURAY OKTOBERFEST: Stick around after the race for some much- deserved relaxation and revelry at the Ouray Oktoberfest and 45th Annual Jeep Raffle. The popular Bavarian band, The Austrian Connection, will perform. There will be kids activities and costume contests with cash prizes.

Traditional German food such as brats, potato cakes, apple sauce and German chocolate cake is on the menu, as well as Colorado Boy brews and wine. Call the Ouray Chamber for additional information at 800-228-1876.
Source: PSA (Posted 10:35a)

San Miguel Power Association, Inc. (SMPA) will offer its members new and improved office hours beginning Monday, October 5, 2009. The co-op will now provide services Monday – Friday, whereas previously SMPA staff was only available Monday – Thursday.

SMPA operates two district offices located in Nucla and Ridgway, CO. In order to provide services five days a week, SMPA is implementing an alternating schedule where one district office is open Monday – Thursday and the other, Tuesday – Friday. Office Hours will be as follows:

Nucla Branch: Monday – Thursday, 7:00 am – 5:30 pm
Ridgway Branch: Tuesday – Friday, 7:00 am – 5:30 pm

Please note the Ridgway office will be closed Monday, October 5, 2009 as the new hours take effect.

The change in office hours stems from SMPA’s desire to provide full service to members during the entire regular work week. The co-op transitioned to a 10-hour, 4-day work week 15 years ago in order the accommodate members before and after their regular work day. That isn’t going to change. Members will still be able to work with SMPA from 7:00 am – 5:30 pm.

All inquiries will be handled at the Nucla office on Mondays and at the Ridgway office on Fridays. Member calls will be automatically transferred to the open office, allowing members to request services, pay their bills and ask questions regardless of where they are located in the service territory. Each office will continue to keep drop boxes in the front lobbies for members that wish to pay at their local office during off hours. Members who visit an un-open office will be requested to contact the open office by phone. There will also be a phone available in each office lobby for member convenience.

In the future, San Miguel Power hopes to install a kiosk system that will allow members who visit their local office during off hours to see, speak and interact with SMPA staff. In the meantime, member patience and cooperation is appreciated.

For more information contact SMPA at (970) 626-5549 or (970) 864-7311 or visit smpa.com. San Miguel Power Association, Inc. is a member owned, locally controlled rural electric cooperative with offices in Nucla and Ridgway, CO. It is the mission of San Miguel Power Association, Inc. to demonstrate corporate responsibility and community service while providing safe, reliable, cost effective and environmentally responsible electrical service. SMPA serves approximately 9,600 members and 13,000 meters and supports local communities with $200,000 annually in property taxes.
Source: Press Release (Posted 10:33a)

The Grand Junction Police Department needs your help in identifying the
Individual(s) involved in an arson and burglary. In the early morning hours of Wednesday July 1st, 2009 a subject sleeping inside the residence of 319 Pitkin Avenue, woke to find the house on fire. There was approximately $30,000 worth of damage to the residence before it could be extinguished. It was then discovered property was stolen from the residence prior to the fire occurring. The fire at the residence is suspected of being intentionally set to cover up the theft from the property.

If you have information on this crime, contact 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, see us at WWW.241STOP.com (GJPD # 09-051952)
Source: Press Release (Posted 10:32a)

Jerry Nemnich is scheduled to be arraigned today. The Daily Sentinel says he is expected to enter a not guilty plea in connection with the 1975 murder of a mother and her daughter in a Grand Junction apartment.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:24a)

Whoever poured elk urine all over the Fruita Monument side of the stands at last Friday’s Fruita v. Grand Junction football game as Stocker Stadium could face criminal charges. NBC 11 News says people heard human urine was also added to the mix that smelled something awful during the game. The night before Grand Junction Parks employees tried scrubbing the stench, but said adding water simply made it worse. It’s unclear at this time who performed the act, and until then, all incurred costs are being billed to the taxpayer.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 8:21a)

What’s sex and drugs without the rock & roll…? Just ask some of the Gunnison County Detention Center employees and they’ll tell you. Affidavits reveal how three Sheriff’s Deputies were engaged in unruly behavior at the jail for well over a year. Behavior that included supposed sex acts with inmates and with each other, missing prescriptions drugs, and cocaine use with a deputy and inmate. Former Captain Michelle Zadra and former Sergeant Melissa Rogers were arrested September 2nd on suspicion of first-degree perjury, conspiracy to commit perjury, first-degree misconduct, and false reporting to authorities. Three others were arrested in the same operation. Zadra and Rogers are set to appear in court October 20th. (Posted 7:01a)

A Telluride businessman was arrested and appeared in court last week for alleged ties to a New York Ponzi-scheme. The Daily Planet says Shahin Kashanchi, owner of Blue Gecko, is charged with two counts of bank fraud for his alleged involvement in a massive defrauding operation that totaled $290 million dollars. He pleaded not guilty. It’s believed Kashanchi collaborated with his brother-in-law, Hassan Nemazee, one of the Democratic Party’s titan fundraisers. Nemazee was arrested in August for defrauding several New York banks.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 7:01a)

New background checks for Garfield County’s search and rescue volunteers have prompted the group’s president to resign in protest because he says the checks are too intrusive. According to Aspen Daily News, President Dave Pruett says the new screenings are a “ridiculous waste of taxpayer dollars” and warned that other volunteers would leave as a result. Sheriff Lou Vallario has set an Oct. 31 deadline for all current volunteers to submit to the new screening, which includes a lie-detector test and more than three dozen pages of questions about financial records, past drug use, and sexual behavior. Vallario says the county is simply “raising the bar” for the volunteers it hires and to protect itself against possible liabilities.
Source: Aspen Daily News (Posted 7:00a)

The National Weather Service out of Grand Junction has issued a wind advisory, freeze watch, and a red flag warning. The wind advisory, saying possible winds up to 50mph could gust through western Colorado, is in affect until 9 tonight. A freeze watch for western Colorado is also in effect until 9 tonight, meaning sub-freezing temperatures are possible. These conditions could kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. A red flag warning is in effect for central and western Colorado areas under 9,000 feet. These winds and weather conditions, through noon today, are ideal for fire growth.
Source: National Weather Service (Posted 6:59a)

Montrose County commissioners are expected to vote on a proposed uranium mill in Paradox Valley this morning. Commissioners had been scheduled to make a decision on the mill on Sept. 9 but delayed it until today after hearing from about 100 people at a public hearing. The mill’s proponents say it would help the economy and opponents worry about the effects on the environment and public safety. The county planning commission in August recommended approving the uranium mill by Toronto-based Energy Fuels Inc. Commissioners now have to vote on whether to grant a special use permit for the mill. The mill would be 12 miles west of Naturita.
Source: Montrose County (Posted 5:59a)

Investigators and school officials foiled a potential threat against Palisade High School with the arrest of student, Robert Dell Johnson, 18, of Grand Junction. Johnson was booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility on one charge each of Criminal Solicitation and Interference with an Educational Institution. The affidavit on Johnson is currently sealed because the case remains an active investigation. NBC 11 News says after an arraignment in court yesterday, the former PHS student’s bond was set at $100,000. District Attorney Pete Hautzinger says pending the outcome of the investigation by the Mesa County Sheriffs Department; it’s likely he’ll file additional felony charges against Johnson.

Source: Press Release
Source: NBC 11 News contributed to this story
(Posted 5:56a)

Service has been restored for Grand Valley AT&T customers after vandals struck a cell tower on the Redlands. The Daily Sentinel says service was been out the majority of Tuesday. Many AT&T customers complained about the lack of service, but employees assured them it was being worked on.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:49a)

State Farm Insurance says vehicle-deer collisions in Colorado have increased by 19% since 2004. Aspen Daily News says the study found that most of the car accidents on Highway 82 between Aspen and Glenwood Springs are from collisions with wildlife. The national rate for vehicles colliding with deer also increased nationally in the last five years by 18.3%.
Source: Aspen Daily News (Posted 5:48a)

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NEWS: Tuesday September 29, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 29th, 2009

A 19th century hotel considered among Aspen’s most prestigious is scheduled for a foreclosure auction. The Aspen Times reports that court papers show the owners of the 1889 Hotel Jerome have an unpaid loan balance of $36.3 million. The 92-bedroom hotel is set for a foreclosure auction on Jan. 27.
Source: Aspen Times (Posted 5:14p)

Service for some Grand Valley AT&T customers has been down since this morning after vandals struck a cell tower on the Redlands. The Daily Sentinel says service has been out since around 6 this morning and it is unclear when service will resume. Company employees are working right now to restore service. Cell service is available for some customers in different areas of the city.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 4:22p)

UPDATE: NBC 11 News says after an arraignment in court today, the 18-year-old former PHS student’s bond was set at $100,000. District Attorney Pete Hautzinger says pending the outcome of the investigation by the Mesa County Sheriff’s Department; it’s likely he’ll file additional felony charges against Johnson.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 3:57p)
Investigators and school officials foiled a potential threat against Palisade High School with the arrest of student, Robert Dell Johnson, 18, of Grand Junction. Johnson was booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility on one charge each of Criminal Solicitation and Interference with an Educational Institution.

The affidavit on Johnson is currently sealed because the case remains an active investigation. Johnson will be arraigned at 1:30 p.m. today at the Mesa County Justice Center.

Source: Press Release (Posed 12:00p)

Governor Bill Ritter announced today he has directed more than $7 million in federal Recovery Act funds to support nearly 10 different K-12 education programs to help reduce the dropout rate, enhance teacher compensation, and improve Colorado’s chances of winning a federal “Race to the Top” competitive grant next year.

“These investments reflect my ongoing commitment to the promise that all Colorado students be given an equal opportunity to succeed,” Governor Ritter said. “Using Recovery Act funds to grow innovative programs will strengthen Colorado’s education system and maintain the momentum for education reform we’ve created over the past few years.”

Lt. Governor Barbara O’Brien chairs Colorado’s P-20 Education Council and is overseeing the state’s Race to the Top grant application. “We’re already doing groundbreaking work to improve the skills and knowledge we provide students in classrooms throughout Colorado,” Lt. Governor O’Brien said. “These strategic investments will allow us to continue leading Colorado forward, and they’ll pay untold dividends down the road by putting us in a stronger position for the Race to the Top competition.”

Today’s announcement includes $1 million to restore the state’s alternative compensation grant program, $500,000 to develop the state’s first educator identifier data system (matched with $400,000 in private funds), $1.5 million to dramatically expand the Teach for America program in Colorado, and $2.5 million to enhance the state’s renowned Colorado Growth Model data system.

In addition, Governor Ritter directed that $1.3 million be used to reinstate a National Board Certification Stipend Pilot Program. Teachers will be eligible for $1,600 stipends, or $4,800 enhanced stipends for those who agree to serve in low-performing schools where highly effective educators are needed the most.

“We deeply appreciate Governor Ritter’s support for these important programs,” Education Commissioner Dwight D. Jones said. “It’s critical that Colorado advances meaningful, long-term reforms and invests in teachers who strive to meet rigorous national standards and accept challenging assignments.”

Other programs included in today’s announcement:
-$53,000 to help initiate the new Colorado ASCENT program, which was created by House Bill 09-1319. Colorado ASCENT is the nation’s first statewide program that will allow students to simultaneously pursue high school and community college degrees, which will keep students in school, lower the dropout rate and help graduates find better jobs quicker.
-$300,000 to help launch the new Office of Dropout Prevention and Student Re-engagement. The office was created earlier this year by HB 09-1243. “This is just the jump-start we needed,” said Rep. Karen Middleton, who co-sponsored the legislation. “This funding will help us reduce Colorado’s dropout rate and increase the odds of long-term success for our kids. It is time to drop-kick our dropout problem and help all children stay in school and graduate.”
-$200,000 to reinstate the state’s National Board Assessment Stipend program.
-$25,000 for Principal Leadership Academy grants.
Source: Press Release (Posted 12:02p)

Authorities want to know why a man killed in a truck accident was carrying two pipe bombs and a load of firewood. The Durango Herald says the unusual death of 53-year-old Eino “Sonny” W. Murrietta has the Colorado State Patrol trying to figure out where the bombs came from. Murrietta was killed Sunday when he lost control of his 2001 Toyota Tacoma, rolling three times. No one else was hurt.

In the wreckage, authorities found two undetonated pipe bombs along with the firewood. The bombs were safely detonated by law enforcement, with few details about where they came from or why authorities think Murrietta was carrying them.
Source: Durango Herald (Posted 12:00p)

On September 29, 2009, at approximately 0132 hrs, GJPD Officers were dispatched to an audible alarm at the Grand Mesa Little League (518 28 ¾ Road). Daniel Lautenschlager, 24, was contacted fleeing from the building and detained at gunpoint. Further investigation revealed Lautenschlager had forced entry into the facility, causing damage to the building, and stolen some items valued under $500.00 from inside the building. Lautenschlager was arrested for 2nd Degree Burglary, Criminal Mischief under $500.00 and Theft under $500.00. Lautenschlager was remanded to the Mesa County Jail on these charges.
Source: Press Release (Posted 11:34a)

A man caused a major one vehicle car crash in Palisade yesterday. NBC 11 News says the 21-year-old was driving erratically on Highway 6 when he went off the road, smashed into a boulder, then hit a concrete irrigation box, and then crashed into a telephone pole. The impact caused the pole to go through the windshield injuring the driver and catching the car on fire. No word on the passenger’s injuries. Investigators say they did find several weapons in the vehicle.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 11:23a)

A meatpacking plant in Fort Morgan has pleaded guilty to violating its permit for how much bacteria it could discharge from its wastewater treatment facility. KJCT says Cargill Meat Solutions entered the plea Monday to two misdemeanor permit violations. The violations occurred in 2004 and 2005.
Source: KJCT/AP (Posted 11:22a)

Montrose County Health and Human Service and Montrose Memorial Hospital are presenting a free community lecture entitled “H1N1 Awareness” on September 29 from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Montrose Memorial Hospital. Karen Connor, RN will present the facts about H1N1 virus, signs and symptoms and tips to help you and your family from contracting and spreading the flu virus. Come learn the facts and get your questions answered. For more information please call Mary at 252-2647.
Source: PSA (Posted 11:22a)

For more information on the candidate reception, please contact Montrose County at (970) 249-7755.
Source: Press Release (Posted 11:02a)

In order to save approximately $100,000, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is pulling their deputies from the court security booth and metal detectors. The Daily Sentinel says the Mesa County Commissioners approved the hiring of a private security company to work the entrance of the Justice Center. District Attorney Pete Hautzinger was told there would be no fewer deputies in the building, but they simply won’t be the first line of security anymore.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 9:36a)

The newly constructed Clark’s Market in Battlement Mesa will soon have a pharmacy. This might not sound like news to you, but to Battlement Mesa and Parachute residents, it’s fantastic news, as they’ve had to drive to Rifle to get their prescriptions filled after a local City Market closed in July. NBC 11 News says the new pharmacy is set to open October 15th.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 9:35a)

There could be big changes on the horizon in state and local health and human service departments. One of the Governor’s Child Welfare Action Committee’s recommendations is to take control of human services away from individual counties and place it under state control. The Daily Sentinel says the official release of recommendations isn’t until Thursday but this recommendation is apparently being led by Karen Beye, executive director of the Colorado Department of Human Services.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 6:00a)

The National Weather Service out of Grand Junction has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Southwest Colorado areas below 9,000 feet. The watch is in effect from noon today until 9 tonight, saying winds will increase causing the weather conditions to be just right for fire growth. Take heed of this caution and stay tuned for possible red flag warnings.
Source: National Weather Service (Posted 5:59a)

Oil is being grown in Colorado’s four corners area. That’s right – ‘grown.’ Parts of the Southwest are expected to be producing commercial quantities of diesel fuel from algae within five years, and a demonstration project is already underway near Durango. Plant biologist Milton Sommerfeld has been working since the 1980s engineering algae strains that reproduce quickly with a high content of what’s basically vegetable oil. Sommerfeld says the biggest remaining hurdle to large-scale algae farming is attracting the necessary investment. He says that’ll depend a lot on world petroleum prices and government policy action.
Source: Colorado News Connection (Posted 5:59a)

All college-bound students and their parents are invited to attend the annual College Fair this evening in the Montrose High School cafeteria. Representatives from in-state and out-of-state schools, including two- and four-year campuses, will be here to share information and answer your questions. Tonight’s College Fair goes from 6:30-8.
Source: PSA (Posted 5:58a)

Jurors have found Aaron Thompson guilty of 1 count of child abuse resulting in death in the disappearance and presumed death of his young daughter. The Denver Post says the charge was 1 of 55 in a verdict delivered by jurors Monday after nine days of deliberation.

A mistrial was declared on two other charges. Defense and prosecuting attorneys agreed to the declaration of a mistrial on counts of conspiracy to abuse a corpse and abuse of a corpse after failing to reach a consensus.

Thompson was charged with fatal child abuse and other crimes in the death of Aarone. Thompson reported his daughter missing in November 2005, when she would have been 6. Authorities believed she may have died about two years earlier. Her body has not been found.
Source: Denver Post (Posted 4:43p)

The City of Delta is experiencing a high volume of circulated counterfeit twenty-dollar bills. According to Chief Robert Thomas, there have been at least five confirmed cases in which counterfeit currency has been used to purchase merchandise.

Chief Thomas is asking business managers and owners to be on the lookout for counterfeit money by examining currency received. According to the United States Secret Service, a business manager or owner should do the following:

Look at the money received. Compare a suspect note with a genuine note of the same denomination and series, paying attention to the quality of printing and paper characteristics. Look for differences, not similarities.

Portrait
The genuine portrait appears lifelike and stands out distinctly from the background. The counterfeit portrait is usually lifeless and flat. Details merge into the background, which is often too dark or mottled.
Federal Reserve and Treasury Seals
On a genuine bill, the saw-tooth points of the Federal Reserve and Treasury seals are clear, distinct, and sharp. The counterfeit seals may have uneven, blunt, or broken saw-tooth points.
Border
The fine lines in the border of a genuine bill are clear and unbroken. On the counterfeit, the lines in the outer margin and scrollwork may be blurred and indistinct.
Serial Numbers
Genuine serial numbers have a distinctive style and are evenly spaced. The serial numbers are printed in the same ink color as the Treasury Seal. On a counterfeit, the serial numbers may differ in color or shade of ink from the Treasury seal. The numbers may not be uniformly spaced or aligned. Compare the denomination numerals on each corner with the denomination written out at the bottom of the note (front and back) and through the Treasury seal.
Paper
Genuine currency paper has tiny red and blue fibers embedded throughout. Often counterfeiters try to simulate these fibers by printing tiny red and blue lines on their paper. Close inspection reveals, however, that on the counterfeit note the lines are printed on the surface, not embedded in the paper.

Other easy counterfeit identifiers:
-Review the water mark of the presidential face in the paper;
-Review the red and blue fibers in the paper;
-Review the color shifting ink of the dollar amount (changes from green to black when tilted);
-Review the security thread built into the bill in varying locations (microprint of the dollar amount).

Most counterfeit bills are printed on an ink jet printer. The printing will look somewhat grainy and the ink will run or smear when wet. These are printed on regular paper and feel different from true currency notes. Compare the potential fake to a real bill. Fake paper will feel somewhat fuzzy and weak. Always check serial numbers on the bills to determine if the two bills have the same numbers as well.

If You Receive a Counterfeit
-Do not return it to the passer.
-Delay the passer if possible.
-Observe the passer’s description, as well as any companions, and the license plate numbers of any vehicles used.
-Contact the City of Delta Police Department at 970-874-7676, or dispatch at 970-874-2015 and ask to speak to an officer. Write your initials and the date in the white border areas of the suspect note.
-Limit the handling of the note. Carefully place it in a protective covering, such as an envelope.
-Surrender the note or coin only to a properly identified police officer or a U.S. Secret Service special agent.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:34a)

The City of Durango announced yesterday that 24 positions have been eliminated from the proposed 2010 budget, representing approximately 10 percent of the City’s regular, full-time workforce. The following positions have been eliminated:

Airport - Custodian
Communication Center – Communications Technician
Finance – Accounting Technician, Systems Analyst, and GIS Technician
General Services – Data Technician and Assistant Fleet and Facilities Manager
Human Resources – Secretary
Library – Paralibrarian
Police – Two Police Officer positions, Investigation Technician, and Fraud Investigator
Planning & Community Development – Two Planner positions, and Administrative Assistant
Public Works – Two Streets Crew Leader positions, Capital Projects Engineer, and Administrative Assistant
Parks & Rec. – Recreation Supervisor for Fitness, Equipment Operator, Maintenance Custodian, Facilities Technician, and Recreation Supervisor for Special Events.

Twelve of the positions were vacant at the time of elimination. Reducing the workforce by these 24 positions represents a savings of $1.25 million in the 2010 budget.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:32a)

Yesterday was the Jacob Vaughn golf fundraiser at The Bridges golf course in Montrose. Jacob, a 2009 Montrose High School graduate, was involved in a serious car accident in July and has been slowly recovering since. Jacob has no damage to his brain but does have titanium holding his skull together. The Bridges will hold an annual golfing fundraiser each fall for those in need in the Montrose community.

(Posted 5:31a)

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NEWS: Monday September 28, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 28th, 2009

Federal Reserve and Treasury Seals
On a genuine bill, the saw-tooth points of the Federal Reserve and Treasury seals are clear, distinct, and sharp. The counterfeit seals may have uneven, blunt, or broken saw-tooth points.

Border
The fine lines in the border of a genuine bill are clear and unbroken. On the counterfeit, the lines in the outer margin and scrollwork may be blurred and indistinct.

Serial Numbers
Genuine serial numbers have a distinctive style and are evenly spaced. The serial numbers are printed in the same ink color as the Treasury Seal. On a counterfeit, the serial numbers may differ in color or shade of ink from the Treasury seal. The numbers may not be uniformly spaced or aligned. Compare the denomination numerals on each corner with the denomination written out at the bottom of the note (front and back) and through the Treasury seal.

Paper
Genuine currency paper has tiny red and blue fibers embedded throughout. Often counterfeiters try to simulate these fibers by printing tiny red and blue lines on their paper. Close inspection reveals, however, that on the counterfeit note the lines are printed on the surface, not embedded in the paper.

The City of Durango announced today that 24 positions have been eliminated from the proposed 2010 budget, representing approximately 10 percent of the City’s regular, full-time workforce. The following positions have been eliminated:

Airport – Custodian
Communication Center – Communications Technician
Finance – Accounting Technician, Systems Analyst, and GIS Technician
General Services – Data Technician and Assistant Fleet and Facilities Manager
Human Resources – Secretary
Library – Paralibrarian
Police – Two Police Officer positions, Investigation Technician, and Fraud Investigator
Planning & Community Development – Two Planner positions, and Administrative Assistant
Public Works – Two Streets Crew Leader positions, Capital Projects Engineer, and Administrative Assistant
Parks & Rec. – Recreation Supervisor for Fitness, Equipment Operator, Maintenance Custodian, Facilities Technician, and Recreation Supervisor for Special Events.

The Montrose Fire Protection District responded to an electrical fire in an apartment complex on 5975 Road Saturday night. The smoke was coming from a room that housed two hot water heaters. Further investigation showed there was no floor protection under the heaters. No one was injured. Damage is estimated around $15,000.
Source: Montrose Fire Protection District (Posted 12:06p)

Today is the Jacob Vaughn golf fundraiser at The Bridges golf course in Montrose. Jacob, a 2009 Montrose High School graduate, was involved in a serious car accident in July and has been slowly recovering since. Jacob has no damage to his brain but does have titanium holding his skull together. The Bridges will hold an annual golfing fundraiser each fall for those in need in the Montrose community.
Silent Auction: 11:00a
Start of Tournament: 1:00p

(Posted 12:06p)

The Grand Junction Police Department is investigating at least three businesses that were hit by BB gun pellets overnight. NBC 11 News says one of the buildings hit was the Post Office, but since that’s a federal building it’s being investigated by the Postal Service. The businesses that were hit are located on 4th Street between Grand Avenue and Main Street.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 10:16a)

A 22-year-old man accused of killing and dismembering his sexually abusive father will spend three years in prison after pleading guilty in an agreement with prosecutors. According to the Cortez Journal, Jeremiah Raymond Berry plead guilty to manslaughter and menacing Friday during an emotional court hearing in which family members and attorneys described him as a troubled young man who was the victim of years of abuse. Berry had been charged with second-degree murder for the February 2008 death of his father, 42-year-old Jack Berry. Jeremiah had faced 48 years in prison if he had been convicted of that charge in Montezuma County. Prosecutors say Jeremiah shot his father in the head, and then dismembered his corpse to feed parts of it to coyotes.
Source: Cortez Journal (Posted 8:30a)

Chili’s Grill & Bar will be holding their annual “Donate Our Profits” day on Monday, September 28, 2009. All of our profits will help support research and treatment at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, aiding in the fight against childhood cancer. There’s never been a better-tasting way to help a great cause.

St Jude, founded by the late entertainer Danny Thomas, is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatments that are not covered by insurance, and families without insurance are never asked to pay. Since opening in 1962, St. Jude has treated children from all 50 states and more than 70 countries.

Chili’s Grill & Bar is located at 1431 Ogden Road in Montrose.
Source: PSA (Posted 8:30a)

A Grand Junction businessman is trying to help Leslie Christian break into country music with her song, “My Life is a Country Song.” Christian, a young black woman from North Carolina, tells the Daily Sentinel she is country, as she could milk a cow before reciting her ABC’s. Page Tucker says he wants to reform the music business by getting Christian’s face and music into mainstream Country by using his website, gettingwired.com, as well as MySpace and Facebook. Leslie Christian recently had a photoshoot near Fruita.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 8:26a)

The National Weather Service out of Grand Junction has issued a Fire Weather Watch for West, Central, and Southwest Colorado areas below 8,500 feet. The watch is in effect from tomorrow afternoon to tomorrow night, saying winds will increase causing the weather conditions to be just right for fire growth. Take heed of this caution and stay tuned for possible red flag warnings.
Source: National Weather Service (Posted 8:03a)

This weekend, the Western Slope celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Gunnison Tunnel supplying water to farms and homes. The Delta-Montrose Electric Association in conjunction with the Umcompaghre Valley Water Users Association announced their recent filing for a federal lease of power privileges to use the water flow from the Gunnison Tunnel for approximately six megawatts of electric generating capacity. DMEA’s General Manager, Dan McClendon says that estimates of the cost of wholesale power this project would produce are favorable. Some benefits of hydropower are clean and renewable energy, locally-owned and operated, and carbon free. Learn more at dmea.com. (Posted 6:05a)

On September 27, 2009 at approximately 1714 hrs, Grand Junction Police were dispatched to the 14th and Main Street on the report of an injury collision. A silver Honda passenger vehicle was driving west on Main Street approaching 14th Street. A white Buick sedan was driving north on 14th Street approaching Main Street. The driver of the white Buick failed to stop at the posted stop sign and entered the intersection. The westbound Honda was unable to avoid a collision and struck the Buick broadside causing severe damage to the Buick and injuring two of the passengers in the Buick. The Honda was occupied by two females and both were transported to St. Mary’s with minor injuries.

The passengers of the Buick were extricated from the vehicle by the Grand Junction Fire Department. Both were transported to St. Mary’s hospital for treatment. The driver of the Buick fled the scene on foot failing to check on the status of the passengers or the occupants of the other vehicle. None of the injuries resulted in serious bodily injury.

Officers with the Grand Junction Police Department were able to locate the suspect a short time later and take him into custody. The male was identified as Michael Cisneros, age 51, from Grand Junction. He was arrested and charged with the following: Hit and Run with injuries, Drove on a revoked driver’s license (Not DUI related), DUI, No Insurance, and Disregarding a stop sign. The names of the other parties are not available at this time.
Source: Press Release (Posted 6:04a)

Laughter, memories, and bonding took place Saturday at Cobble Creek golf course in Montrose as a benefit fundraiser was held for three Montrose Police Officers who were shot during a domestic violence call in July. One of the wounded, Larry Witte, liked the idea of people coming together in support, speaking for all three, that the support of the community has been amazing. The event was also held in memory of Sgt. Dave Kinterknecht, who sustained fatal wounds when responding to that fateful call, July 25th.
(Posted 6:02a)

Indianapolis 500 winner Buddy Lazier says he will run for a seat on the resort town’s council. He tells Vail Daily he is running for 1 of 4 open seats because he loves the town. Lazier won the Indianapolis 500 in 1996 and now races part time. The election will be held November 3rd.
Source: Vail Daily (Posted 6:00a)

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NEWS: Friday September 25, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 25th, 2009

The night of July 25th turned the city of Montrose upside down as an intoxicated resident shot at police officers, killing one and injuring two. Cobble Creek Golf Course is holding a fundraiser this Saturday for all three of the officers’ families involved (Slain Sgt. David Kinterknecht, wounded Officer Rodney Ragsdale & wounded Officer Larry Witte). $60 a person for a 4-person team will get you into the golfing portion of the fundraiser. There’s also a luncheon for $10 a piece and a silent auction. Get details by clicking THIS LINK.

Montrose County announces Meet & Greet with final candidates for County Manager. With the announcement of the final candidates for County Manager, the Board of County Commissioners is encouraging the public to meet the finalists at an open reception being held at The Bridges Banquet Room Wednesday, September 30 at 6:00 p.m.

All three candidates will be present to meet and interact with community members and leaders. The community meet-and-greet is just one piece in an extensive final interview process. Each final candidate will also undergo an interview with the hiring committee followed by a 60-minute presentation and question/answer session with County Department Heads and Elected Officials. In addition, finalists will have a second interview with the Board of County Commissioners. The interview process will conclude with a tour of Montrose County.

For more information on the candidate reception, please contact Montrose County at (970) 249-7755.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:22p)

Former Rose Medical Center surgery technician Kristen Parker pled guilty this afternoon before U.S. District Judge Robert Blackburn. She is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Blackburn on December 11, 2009 at 3:30pm.

Parker pled guilty to five counts of product tampering and five counts of obtaining a controlled substance by deceit. According to the plea agreement, she faces a stipulated 240 months (20 years) in federal prison for her criminal conduct.

Statement by United States Attorney David Gaouette: “Today’s plea agreement should reassure victims that the criminal justice system represents their interests.”

Statement by FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Special Agent in Charge Steve Holt, from the Kansas City Field Office: “The FDA Office of Criminal Investigations considers this illegal conduct very serious and is fully committed to investigating and supporting the prosecution of those who may endanger the public health with tainted products. We continue to look forward to working with our

law enforcement partners and commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Denver District Attorney’s Office, the Denver Police Department and the DEA for their diligence.”

Statement by Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration Jeffrey D. Sweetin: “The guilty plea today by Kristen Parker brings an end to a story that captured the attention of many in the state of Colorado. I hope, however, that this investigation will start a new awareness and discussion in our state of how the abuse of drugs by a few can affect all of us.”

This case was investigated by FDA Office of Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaime Pena.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:10p)

The identification of several bones found in Gunnison County earlier this month is almost complete. Investigators tell KJCT that while no new information is available, they have a pretty good idea of who the bones belong to. A human skull containing two teeth was found north of Somerset belonging to a young female.
Source: KJCT (Posted 4:57p)

Habitat for Humanity-Montrose County will hold its third annual “Baubles & Bubbles” fundraiser from 5:30 to 9:30 pm Saturday, Oct. 3 at the Holiday Inn Express. The event will feature a fashion show, with clothing and jewelry provided by local merchants; musical entertainment; a silent auction; door prizes and raffles. The Red Barn Restaurant will cater the dinner, including a choice of entrees. Tickets are $45 per person or $80 per couple, and are available at the Habitat ReStore, 411 N. 4th St.; the Red Barn Restaurant; and both locations of Alpine Bank and Bank of the West. For further information, call 252-9303.
Source: PSA (Posted 4:34p)

A little Montrose boy is lucky to be alive after an explosion at his home last night. The Montrose Fire Protection District responded to the Braiser residence on W. Miami Road after the tub exploded when the boy attempted to turn the jets to the tub on. Fire Chief Bob Pistor tells us that when they arrived the fire was out but they saw the wall between the bathroom and bedroom was blown into the bedroom with door casings and sheet rock debris throughout the room. Both exterior windows in the bedroom and bathroom had been blown out. Investigation shows that there was a leak in the propane tank. It’s estimated the explosion caused $10,000 worth of damage.
Source: Montrose Fire Protection District (Posted 4:05p)

A former Grand Junction High School Activities Director was found guilty today on two felony charges of attempted internet luring of a child and attempted child enticement. The Daily Sentinel says the jury also made a separate finding that Johnnie Walker engaged in the Internet chats for the specific purpose of sexual contact with an underage girl. He will be sentenced December 7th.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 4:03p)

Montrose County announces the final candidates for the new Montrose County Manager. The following candidates, in no particular order, will take part in an extensive final interview process September 30-October 2, 2009:

John McCue, Orange City, Florida
John McCue has a detailed history of public management. With over 25 years of experience, he has extensive professional knowledge of both city and county management. Mr. McCue has worked for several state and local organizations throughout the state of Florida, including the Florida Department of Revenue. His professional experience includes land use planning, economic development, organizational and human resources development, and strategic planning, with a specific emphasis on finance and budgeting. Mr. McCue has a Masters degree in Public Administration and most recently served as the City Manager for Orange City, Florida for nine years.

james Patrick, Kalispell, Montana
James Patrick has over fifteen years of local government experience. His professional skill-set includes land use planning and management, the development and implementation of historic restoration plans, economic development, and short- and long-term financial management. Mr. Patrick was selected to be on the Governor’s task force to rewrite tax increment finance district laws and to establish regional and interstate economic community development organizations. He holds a Master of Science degree in Management and Master of Public Administration. Mr. Patrick most recently served as the City Manager for Kalispell, Montana.

Jesse Smith, Montrose, Colorado
Jesse Smith recently relocated to Montrose from Garfield County where he served as the Assistant County Manager for eight years. During his tenure with Garfield County, Mr. Smith was highly involved in the development of the oil and gas industry within the County. He has direct oversight experience with several county operation programs and departments in addition to an elaborate educational and management history. His background includes professional credentials in higher education, local government, and the private sector. Mr. Smith has a Masters degree in Business Administration and a PhD in Education and Management.

Nearly sixty applicants initially applied to become the next Montrose County Manager. The remaining three applicants were selected in a comprehensive and detailed process involving the Board of County Commissioners and the internal hiring committee. Each of the final candidates have both private and public sector professional experience in addition to a diverse and highly-qualified skill set for local government management. The County Manager is an appointed position reporting to the Board of County Commissioners.

For more information, please contact Montrose County at (970) 249-7755.
Source: Press Release (Posted 3:24p)

Rifle is set to receive $300,000 in federal grants to repair and replace water lines. The Daily Sentinel says Senator Mark Udall announced this morning he was able to include the funding in the Senate’s Interior Appropriations bill.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 12:14p)

Xcel Energy is wrapping up $7 million worth of improvements in its electrical service to the Grand Junction airport and nearby businesses after more than a dozen failures since 2005. According to the Daily Sentinel, the existing underground feeder system is plagued by corrosion from acidic soil and burdened by growing demand.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 12:13p)

Everyone is invited to celebrate the 100^th Anniversary of the Gunnison Tunnel at the Montrose County Fairgrounds tomorrow. The event kicks off at 10 with a parade downtown. The Gunnison Tunnel was the first project of the then newly created Bureau of Reclamation. Learn more at uvwaterusers.com.
Source: PSA (Posted 12:22p)

A Johnson Elementary School student in Montrose will not only turn 10 this weekend, but she’s also undergoing her last Chemo treatment as well. Students could pay a dollar today to wear a hat to school. At the end of the school day a parade will be held and at the end all the kids will throw their hats into the air for their friend Kelly. Parents are invited to watch. All money raised benefits the Heavenly Hats Foundation.
Source: PSA (Posted 12:03p)

Dedication of the Veterans Living Memorial, a grove of Austrian pines planted in the footprint of the Vietnam Moving Wall to commemorate the visit to Montrose, will be held on Saturday, October 17, at 10:00 a.m. in Cerise Park.

“The Moving Wall,” a half-size replica of the Washington, DC, Vietnam Veterans Memorial was on display at Cerise Park in Montrose, Colorado, from May 14-18, 2009.

Cerise Park can be accessed by car from Shane’s Way off Chipeta Drive, by footpath from Riverbottom/Baldridge Park (off Rio Grande Avenue), or by footpath from the Main Street Park (off Highway 90).

For further information, call Jenni Sopsic at Montrose Visitors & Convention Bureau, (970) 252-0505, or Randy Havens (970) 240-5489.
Source: PSA (Posted 10:32a)

The Roaring Fork Transit Authority tells Aspen Daily News that buses will be treated weekly with a virus-killing spray starting next month. If a sick person sneezes on a treated area, the spray is said to kill the virus on contact. All buses will also be equipped with hand sanitizer. The Roaring Fork system serves Aspen, Glenwood Springs and Rifle and operates shuttles to Aspen ski areas. It carried 4.1 million passengers in 2006.
Source: Aspen Daily News (Posted 10:28a)

Today at 11 a.m., Grand Junction Police Department Liquor Enforcement Officer Lisa Maestas and Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Tony Marsh will be at the south side of Two Rivers Convention Center (outside) to meet with local media about the recent awards they have received. Maestas is the Chairwoman of the Underage Drinking Task Force and Marsh is the Chairman of the UADTF sub-committee on Enforcement.

All members, including Marsh and Maestas, of the Enforcement sub-committee received the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award from MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), which is a statewide recognition. Four local officers also received Outstanding Team Dedication to MIPs (Minor in Possession of Alcohol) Award and Outstanding Team Dedication to Party Patrol Award, also from MADD. Those four officers include Maestas and Marsh, plus Brian Turner and Brian Dyet from Colorado Department of Revenue–Liquor and Tobacco Enforcement Division.

“Working together with our partner agencies to combat underage drinking is a priority,” Sheriff Stan Hilkey said. “And for these deputies and officers to be recognized on a state level for their commitment and dedication to this cause further highlights the issue at hand and the outstanding effort they put in to make a difference in underage drinking.”

Grand Junction Interim Police Chief John Camper added, “We are very grateful for the work these officers and deputies are doing. Underage drinking is a serious problem with serious consequences, and the combination of education and enforcement from these law enforcement professionals is going a long way to keeping our young people safe.”
Source: Press Release (Posted 9:59a)

If you love to eat quick food in between ski sessions in Mountain Village, you might have to opt for a longer lunch or dinner from now on. The Daily Planet reports that a group of local businesses are asking Mountain Village Town Council to pull the rug out from under vendor carts-eliminating them completely from the area. The permanent businesses say the carts aren’t required to invest into the town like they are, and don’t have to deal with the struggling year-round economy, so that the town should support them instead of the carts. A decision is expected to be made at the October 15th town council meeting.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 6:51a)

The 7th Judicial District DA’s Office has filed a motion to dismiss the case against Andrew Brown of co-conspiring with Michael Yates in the Montrose High School slashing incident last November. In a meeting with District Attorney Myrl Serra and Assistant District Attorney Jerry Montgomery, it was determined to drop charges against Brown after further investigation has proven he did not in fact meet with Yates before the knife attack on Montrose High School student Mallory Haulman the morning of November 11, 2008.

Montgomery said there were two eyewitnesses; one who was a passerby and another who knew Brown and Yates. The girl who knew the boys had stronger evidence than the other girl, which led to important details for and against the boys. She also admitted that she originally lied to police because she was afraid of possible consequences with coming clean on what she knew. Montgomery says her coming forward was a huge help in a case that they might not have pursued had she not. Both girls are juveniles and will not be charged with anything in the case.

All along, this case had some issues with matching timestamps up; with cell phones, security cameras, and 911 calls. Serra says evidence sent to Colorado Bureau of Investigation also came back negative against Brown. He said there simply isn’t enough evidence to prove Brown co-conspired with Yates.

When it came to light to Yates that the one witness came forward, he broke down and admitted that he acted alone, saying he didn’t have mental issues as he originally said he had. (In an affidavit, Yates says the voices in his head told him to commit the crime…and against whom).

Yates pleaded guilty to 1st-Degree Attempted Murder in May and is currently serving a seven year term in a youth-offender, boot-camp type program run by the Colorado Department of Corrections. He will have to spend 18 years in prison if he violates terms of the youth-based system.

Haulman has since recovered from the incident physically and still attends Montrose High School.
(Posted 5:41a)

Jeremy Hodges has pleaded guilty to 2nd-Degree Murder in the 2006 death of Steven Kublin. Seventh Judicial District Attorney Myrl Serra says that he pled with a stipulated 40 year Department of Corrections sentence plus parole. Kublin’s burnt body was found by a bicyclist near the Montrose County landfill November 9, 2006. An acquaintance of Hodges came forward with evidence in April 2008, leading to the arrest of the 27-year-old that following May. Hodges was originally charged with 1st-Degree Murder. He is set to appear in court for his sentencing on October 9, 2009 at 8:00am.
Source: 7th Judicial District Attorney Myrl Serra
Source: Telluride Watch contributed to this story
Source: Daily Press contributed to this story
(Posted 5:41a)

Delta City Manager Lanny Sloan has announced he is retiring effective October 16th. Mayor Mary Cooper and fellow council members say they’re grateful for the wisdom and level of integrity that he brought to the city of Delta.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:40a)

Governor Ritter has praised Forbes.com for naming Colorado as the fourth best state to do business, up from No. 6 last year.

The ranking measures six categories for businesses: costs, labor supply, regulatory environment, current economic climate, growth prospects and quality of life. Colorado finished in the top 15 in four of the six main categories, including quality of its workforce (1st), prospects for growth (2nd), and economic climate.

“Colorado is honored to be recognized by Forbes.com as the fourth best state to do business,” Gov. Ritter said. “We have one of the nation’s most highly skilled workforces and tremendous job growth opportunities. Combine that with the low cost of doing business and our excellent quality of life, and there’s no question Colorado will emerge from this downturn quicker, stronger and healthier.”

In July, CNBC ranked Colorado No. 3 on its prestigious annual list of America’s Top States for Business, specifically citing the state’s New Energy Economy. Also in July, MSNBC named Colorado as one of the five states most likely to recover first from the downtown.

Over the past three years, Gov. Ritter has launched aggressive economic-development initiatives that are strengthening Colorado’s businesses, communities and working families. He has helped build Colorado’s nationally recognized New Energy Economy, provided tax cuts to 30,000 small businesses, invested in employee training, reformed the business tax code to encourage growth, and allowed for greater access to loans for small businesses.
Source: Press Release (Posted 3:34p)

Larimer County Sheriff’s Deputies have made an arrest in an attack on two women who were hiking in Northern Colorado. Sheriff’s Officials announced the arrest yesterday but didn’t identify the suspect or say what charges are planned. NBC 11 News says the women were attacked by knifepoint on a trail in the Roosevelt National Forest on Sept. 13. Deputies say they believe the man intended to sexually assault the women.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 5:40a)

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NEWS: Thursday September 24, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 24th, 2009

The 7th Judicial District DA’s Office has filed a motion to dismiss the case against Andrew Brown of co-conspiring with Michael Yates in the Montrose High School slashing incident last November. In a meeting with District Attorney Myrl Serra and Assistant District Attorney Jerry Montgomery, it was determined to drop charges against Brown after further investigation has proven he did not in fact meet with Yates before the knife attack on Montrose High School student Mallory Haulman the morning of November 11, 2008.

Haulman has since recovered from the incident physically and still attends Montrose High School.
(Posted 1:48p)

Jeremy Hodges has pleaded guilty to 2nd-Degree Murder in the 2006 death of Steven Kublin. Seventh Judicial District Attorney Myrl Serra says that he pled with a stipulated 40 year Department of Corrections sentence plus parole. Kublin’s burnt body was found by a bicyclist near the Montrose County landfill November 9, 2006. An acquaintance of Hodges came forward with evidence in April 2008, leading to the arrest of the 27-year-old that following May. Hodges was originally charged with 1st-Degree Murder. He is set to appear in court for his sentencing on October 9, 2009 at 8:00am.
Source: 7th Judicial District Attorney Myrl Serra
Source: Telluride Watch contributed to this story
Source: Daily Press contributed to this story
(Posted 2:28p)

Gov. Ritter today praised Forbes.com for naming Colorado as the fourth best state to do business, up from No. 6 last year.

A Glenwood Springs man died earlier this week when he rolled the dump truck he was driving. Colorado State Patrol tells the Daily Sentinel that Keith Cleghorn was pronounced dead at the scene in Edwards on Tuesday. It appears he lost control of the truck causing it to roll and then slide down an embankment into a group of trees. Cleghorn was belted in but the impact caused the cab to collapse, pinning him in. Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in the crash.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 3:29p)

Authorities say a mass-transit bus struck a light pole during the morning commute in Denver, sending 13 people to hospitals, including the driver. According to the Denver Post, police say none of the injuries in the crash appeared to be life-threatening. It seems the driver may had fallen asleep at the wheel.
Source: Denver Post (Posted 3:29p)

The Skate Park in Norwood is complete, but the town is asking people to pitch in and buy $5 tickets for drawings on October 1st. Winners will get helmets or skateboards. The Norwood Post says proceeds benefit new equipment for the park on work that has yet to be done. To purchase tickets for the drawing call the Town of Norwood at 327-4288.
Source: Norwood Post (Posted 11:09a)

Tuesday, September 22, Senate President Brandon Shaffer (D-Longmont) left from the Capitol with packed bags and an open mind. This week marks the second leg of a four-week state-wide listening tour which will take President Shaffer, Senate Majority Leader John Morse (D-Colorado Springs), and other Democratic Senators to the four corners of Colorado. Senator Gail Schwartz (D-Snowmass) and Senator Bruce Whitehead (D-Hesperus), both representatives of Southwest Colorado, will join them on the Southwest tour.

The purpose of the tour is to listen to Coloradans to gain a better understanding of what type of Colorado we want. The Senators are looking forward to meeting people across the state, introducing themselves, and hearing what state laws they would like to see for Colorado. The tour will include meetings with local businesses and community leaders, newspaper editorial boards, fairs and other local events.

“I can’t wait to get going,” said President Shaffer. ”The first leg of this listening tour was so successful: we heard from many people and got different ideas of what we can do at the state level to help. I am looking forward to visiting with the people in Southwest Colorado and hearing what issues are important to them.”

“We’ve really been looking forward to the Southwest tour,” said Senator Morse. ”When I ask what the most important issue is in my district the first words out of the mouths of my constituents are not ‘forest health’ or ‘water issues.’ But those are the topics you hear about when you get away from Colorado Springs, or Denver, and visit other regions in Colorado. I’m looking forward to hearing from Southwest Colorado.”

Senator Gail Schwartz has represented Senate District 5 since 2006. She is a champion for issues important to Southern Colorado and the Western Slope and will help the senate leadership get to know her district. ”Whether it’s education, health care, job creation, agriculture, or natural resources the people in my district Colorado have different priorities and needs than those in the cities. I’m grateful the Senate leadership is taking the time to come down here and truly get to know the beauty of and the challenges facing this part of the state.”

“Southwest Colorado is well represented in the Senate by Senator Schwartz and me, but now the leadership will also have first-hand knowledge of the issues in our region,” said Senator Whitehead. ”I’m excited President Shaffer and Majority Leader Morse are coming to Southwest Colorado so they can better understand and advocate for our concerns.”

Remaining Highlights of the Southwest Tour:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 (Senate Majority Leader Morse and Senator Schwartz)
10:30-11:30a: Visit Sangre de Cristo Elementary School which received a BEST grant thanks to the hard work and dedication of Senator Gail Schwartz. There will also be a school assembly.
LOC: Sangre de Cristo Elementary School, 11430 2nd Ave, Hooper, COý
12:30 -1:30p: Lunch with Saguache County Commissioners Sam Pace and Linda Joseph
LOC: Desert First, 410 8th St. Saguache, CO
1:30 – 2 p.m. Meet small business owner Dean Coombs who owns the Saguache Crescent, which has been around for 130 years. Dean Coombs has “ink stained hands” and runs the paper off an old-fashioned printing press. They are the last, continuously-operated letterpress paper in the country. Dean worked at the paper as a child and became the publisher in 1979.
LOC: 316 4th St. Saguache, CO
330- 4p: (NOTE: President Shaffer will leave the tour to travel to Vail to speak before the Colorado Association of Commerce and Industry (CACI) Board.)
LOC: Antlers Hotel, Vail, CO
5pm: Dinner with Colorado sportsmen and Department of Wildlife representatives including Tom Spezze, DOW Regional Manager, Mark Smith, Wildlife Commissioner, a biologist, and some sportsmen.
LOC: Gunnison, CO

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 (President Shaffer and Senate Majority Leader Morse, Senator Schwartz)
4p-6p: Mountain Harvest Festival- Chili Cook-Off and Pie Contest
LOC: Town Park, 4 blocks east of Grad Ave between 4th and 5th St., Paonia, CO
Source: Press Release (Posted 10:43a)

The historic Grand Junction Depot is under foreclosure and will go to auction in December. The Daily Sentinel says the 103-year-old building is a victim of a sagging real estate market. Ironically, results of a structural assessment are due in November.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:39a)

I scream. You scream. We all scream for free ice cream! That’s exactly what people are being offered (with donations welcomed) at Cold Stone Creamery’s “World’s Largest Ice Cream Social,” a fundraising event to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America and its chapters across the country.

Cold Stone Creamery stores in Grand Junction and Montrose – and throughout Colorado, the United States, Guam and Puerto Rico – invite ice cream lovers to experience the joy of ice cream at a nostalgic event that promises lots of ice cream and family fun.

This year’s celebration includes a 3-ounce creation developed by 5-year-old Jack, a wish child and 2009 Junior Tastemaster. Jack combined sweet cream ice cream with brownies, caramel and sprinkles to create this year’s special treat for the social.

Customers will receive a 3-ounce serving of Jack’s Creation. Donations that night will benefit the local chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Colorado, an organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.

VISUALS: Ice cream fans of all ages enjoying a special treat; friends and families gathered in a nostalgic ice cream social environment
WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 24, from 5-8 p.m.
WHERE: 2474 Hwy 6 & 50 in Grand Junction or 1541 Oxbow Drive in Montrose. For additional store locations, please visit www.coldstonecreamery.com.
Source: PSA (Posted 10:38a)

The night of July 25th turned Montrose upside down as an intoxicated resident shot at police officers, killing one and injuring two. Cobble Creek Golf Course is holding a fundraiser this Saturday for all three of the officers’ families involved (Slain Sgt. David Kinterknecht, wounded Officer Rodney Ragsdale & wounded Officer Larry Witte). $60 a person for a 4-person team will get you into the golfing portion of the fundraiser. There’s also a luncheon for $10 a piece and a silent auction. Get details by clicking THIS LINK.

A recently built Habitat for Humanity home in Norwood is the first house in San Miguel County to receive Energy Star Certification. The Norwood Post says the County Bus Barn near Norwood Hill also went green as it’s now up to Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design Certificate Standards. LEED is a national rating system for green building. Both these projects proved that going green doesn’t necessarily mean spending buckets of cash.
Source: Norwood Post (Posted 10:35a)

A man who killed his best friend while driving drunk was denied a plea deal by a Mesa County Judge. Jesse Reed’s attorney attempted to strike a plea deal with sentence options of probation or 90 days in jail or work release. According to the Daily Sentinel, the victim’s family wished this deal for Reed. The 21-year-old was completely inebriated February 15th after leaving a Clifton nightclub. He drove into a pole killing his passenger, 23-year-old John Fulmer IV. Reed is expected back in court next week.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:34a)

A 13-year-old boy will undergo an autopsy today after passing away yesterday from what appears to be the H1N1 flu. Summit Daily News says the Breckenridge boy was found unconscious at his home and later died at Breckenridge Medical Center. Only 11.5 percent of local students were out due to illness. To date, no one in Summit County has tested positive for H1N1.
Source: Summit Daily News (Posted 10:32a)

Life Choices Family Resource Center (formerly known as the Pregnancy Center of Montrose) is holding their 25th Anniversary banquet on October 10th at the Montrose Christian Church. Joneen MacKenzie, founder of WAIT training is the keynote speaker. Tickets are $25 and available at the Center at 200 S. 4th Street in Montrose, Genesis Bookstore, and most churches. Dinner will be catered by Camp Robber.
Source: PSA (Posted 10:30a)

Last year Montrose Juvenile Services saw 129 youths complete their program. Josie Smith with the Senate Bill 94 Project tells us that of those 129, 16 were female and the overall majority of youth offenders were Caucasian. Montrose Juvenile Services serves the 7th Judicial District and includes Senate Bill 94 and Juvenile Diversion. These numbers reflect the July 1, 2008-June 31, 2009 fiscal year.

Montrose Juvenile Services…Restoring youth through community collaboration and intervention. Montrose Juveniles Services includes Senate Bill 94 and Juvenile Diversion. Both programs are funded by state dollars. Senate Bill 94 is a state-wide program funded by the Division of Youth Corrections, with the goal of providing community bases services to youth involved in the juvenile justice system whom are at risk for out of home placement in detention facilities. Services included intake screening and assessment upon arrest, Community Evaluation Team (a multi-agency wrap around team), case management, and payment for treatment services such as substance abuse or family therapy. Juvenile Diversion provides youth the opportunity to be diverted from the formal court proceeding with the goal of successfully completing a contract and sanctions for their crime without having to see the judge or have their case filed. Youth whom complete Juvenile Diversion will not have an adjudication (juvenile criminal record). Services provided through Juvenile Diversion include life skills groups, case management, payment for treatment services, and positive supports such as payment for pro-social activities. Both programs provide youth the opportunity to give back to the community through the Useful Public Service Work Crew.
Source: 7th Judicial District: Senate Bill 94/Montrose Juvenile Services (Posted 5:37a)

Last Friday, the Montrose Indian Football team made the record books. The Colorado High School Activities Association tells the Daily Press that the Indians set a state record for most points scored in one quarter by one team when they collected 53 points against Adams City. The previous record was 49 points by Pawnee/Briggsdale in 1989 vs. Fleming. Montrose went on to beat Adams City 59-0.
Source: Daily Press (Posted 5:36a)

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NEWS: Wednesday September 23, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 23rd, 2009

Former House Speaker Andrew Romanoff has a prominent state Democrat on his side in a primary battle against the president’s favorite, Sen. Michael Bennet. KJCT reports that State Senate President Morgan Carroll of Aurora backed Romanoff today for the U.S. Senate. Last week, President Barack Obama sided with Bennet.
Source: KJCT/AP (Posted 4:48p)

Last year Montrose Juvenile Services saw 129 youths complete their program. Josie Smith with the Senate Bill 94 Project tells us that of those 129, 16 were female and the overall majority of youth offenders were Caucasian. Montrose Juvenile Services serves the 7th Judicial District and includes Senate Bill 94 and Juvenile Diversion. These numbers reflect the July 1, 2008-June 31, 2009 fiscal year.

Montrose Juvenile Services…Restoring youth through community collaboration and intervention. Montrose Juveniles Services includes Senate Bill 94 and Juvenile Diversion. Both programs are funded by state dollars. Senate Bill 94 is a state-wide program funded by the Division of Youth Corrections, with the goal of providing community bases services to youth involved in the juvenile justice system whom are at risk for out of home placement in detention facilities. Services included intake screening and assessment upon arrest, Community Evaluation Team (a multi-agency wrap around team), case management, and payment for treatment services such as substance abuse or family therapy. Juvenile Diversion provides youth the opportunity to be diverted from the formal court proceeding with the goal of successfully completing a contract and sanctions for their crime without having to see the judge or have their case filed. Youth whom complete Juvenile Diversion will not have an adjudication (juvenile criminal record). Services provided through Juvenile Diversion include life skills groups, case management, payment for treatment services, and positive supports such as payment for pro-social activities. Both programs provide youth the opportunity to give back to the community through the Useful Public Service Work Crew.
Source: 7th Judicial District: Senate Bill 94/Montrose Juvenile Services (Posted 4:29p)

Last Friday, the Montrose Indian Football team made the record books. The Colorado High School Acitivites Association tells the Daily Press that the Indians set a state record for most points scored in one quarter by one team when they collected 53 points against Adams City. The previous record was 49 points by Pawnee/Briggsdale in 1989 vs. Fleming. Montrose went on to beat Adams City 59-0.
Source: Daily Press (Posted 3:53p)

Ridgway State Park will celebrate the park’s 20th Anniversary and the 50th Anniversary of Colorado State Parks on Saturday, Sept. 26, and the public is invited. The events will be held in conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of the Gunnison Tunnel and will focus on the important role that water delivery systems play in western Colorado.

There will be historic displays about Ridgway State Park and Colorado State Parks in the visitor center, which opens at 9 a.m. The book store will have a sale with 25 percent off on clothing and 20 percent off on books.

Throughout 2009, Colorado State Parks is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities.

Attracting more than 11 million visitors per year, Colorado’s 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,531 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,000 campsites, and 57 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.colorado.gov/parks.
Source: Press Release (Posted 3:55p)

Authorities say a body retrieved from an Arizona lake is that of a Colorado mother of 2 who disappeared more than seven years ago. Officials in Rio Grande County tell the Valley Courier in Alamosa that DNA tests confirmed the body was Danice Day who disappeared when she was 19 in 2002. Victor Braun, Day’s boyfriend at the time, and father of one of her children has been charged with manslaughter. Investigators found Day’s body through “negotiations” between Braun’s attorney and prosecutors.
Source: Valley Courier (Posted 11:50a)

A Grand Junction woman is facing 24 charges after her arrest earlier this week. NBC 11 News reports that Joyce Godsey lied to more than a half-dozen medical offices and wrote several bad checks, all in attempt to get pain medication. The 52-year-old even used a ficticious name at some of the offices. The Grand Junction Police Department appreciates the office managers recognizing the problem and reporting it. Godsey is being held on a $15,000 bond at the Mesa County Jail.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 11:49a)

Montrose County Health and Human Services and Montrose Memorial Hospital are presenting a free community lecture entitled “H1N1 Awareness” on September 29 from 6:00 – 7:00pm at Montrose Memorial Hospital. Registered Nurse, Karen Connor, will present the facts about H1N1 virus, signs and symptoms and tips to help you and your family from contracting and spreading the flu virus. Come learn the facts and get your questions answered. For more information please call Mary at 252-2647.
Source: PSA (Posted 8:16a)

A resignation letter written by a Grand Junction Police Officer facing domestic violence charges has been made public. The Daily Sentinel says Courtney Crooks wrote that he thanks the community for the opportunity to serve them and plans on looking for work elsewhere. The 24-year-old had been on unpaid leave since his August 28th arrest on misdemeanor allegations of harassment involving his wife. Crooks is expected in court next month.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 8:16a)

Later on today the Telluride Mountain Village Owners Association is holding a meeting to brainstorm on ways to trim next year’s budget. The Daily Planet says the organization is possibly looking into a deficit of about $850,000 next year if something doesn’t change. The article outlines two spending obligations for TMVOA: administration and the Gondola. Today’s meeting is at 4 at the Town Hall in Mountain Village.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 6:57a)

There could be more than lunch in your kid’s lunchbox, and a new database is designed to unlock the mystery. The Ecology Center tallied thousands of test results on items made for kids and pets. Now Colorado consumers can search the world’s largest database for products made from potentially hazardous materials to keep them from coming home in the first place. Ecology Center policy director Mike Schriberg says HealthyStuff.org offers people a way of knowing whether products on the shelf are laden with toxic chemicals. Schriberg says lead, mercury, and arsenic are a few common elements found in products made for children and pets. All of those are known to cause various developmental or health problems. The new web tool offers parents and pet owners detailed information about five-thousand products.
Source: Colorado News Connection (Posted 6:57a)

Yesterday the Montrose High School boys golf took yet another Western Regional Championship. The Daily Press says coach Angelo DeJulio led his four-man team to it’s second consecutive regional title after defeating Steamboat Springs and Battle Mountain yesterday. The team will compete for the state championship on October 5 & 6 at Highlands Ranch. Last year, the team finished 3rd in the state tournament.
Source: Daily Press (Posted 6:56a)

The man who shot at Montrose Police Officers, killing one, in July was found to be heavily intoxicated the night of the incident. However, according to the Daily Sentinel, Montrose County Coroner Dr. Thomas Canfield found no narcotics in Dennis Gurney’s toxicology report. The 52-year-old barricaded himself in his garage when law enforcement responded to a domestic violence call July 25th. He started firing rounds from a shotgun, killing Sgt. David Kinterknecht, and wounding officers Rodney Ragsdale and Larry Witte. Gurney’s death was ruled a suicide.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:55a)

A Mack woman was cited after a car accident Sunday night caused one of her four children to be ejected from the vehicle. The Daily Sentinel says Carissa Quarles didn’t have any of her children belted in when she swerved to miss a deer on Highway 6, causing her to overcorrect and roll the truck. The three-year-old is suffering a possible skull fracture. Quarles has been cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle as well as four lesser counts of failure to provide child restraint systems.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:54a)

A woman was taken to the hospital after a bull elk attacked her outside her home in Evergreen. 9 News in Denver says the 47-year-old woman was leaving her home yesterday morning and was attacked when she got out of her car to go back inside. The woman’s injuries weren’t life-threatening. It’s mating season for elk and it’s common for bulls to be more aggressive.
Source: 9 News (Posted 5:52a)

Weather permitting, the City of Montrose Street Division will be chip sealing several city streets this week. Motorists are advised to avoid the following areas wherever possible.

On Wednesday, September 23, crews will chip seal the entire lengths of Ridge Street, Highland Street, McGuire Road, Fairview Place, South Tenth and Eleventh Streets as well as South Twelfth Street between the northern fork intersection and Hillcrest Drive.

On Thursday, September 24, crews will chip seal North Stough Avenue between Main Street and North San Juan Avenue, the entire length of North Pythian Avenue, as well as North Lot Avenue. Crews will also chip seal North First and North Second Streets between North Lot Avenue and North San Juan Avenue.

Chip sealing will begin at 7:00 a.m., or as early as possible, and is expected to be completed within one hour for each street. During the chip sealing procedure, the road undergoing maintenance will be closed. Detours are advised.

Motorists are advised that crews will begin sweeping excess chips on Monday, September 28. The sweeping is expected to last two days. Please do not park on these streets during sweeping.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:51a)

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NEWS: Tuesday September 22, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 22nd, 2009

A woman was taken to the hospital after a bull elk attacked her outside her house in the foothills west of Denver. 9 News says the 47-year-old woman was leaving her home in Evergreen yesterday morning and was attacked when she got out of her car to go back inside. It’s mating season for elk making it more common for bulls to be aggressive. Wildlife officers looked for the elk but didn’t find it.
Source: 9 News (Posted 5:14p)

Colorado roadway projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act continue to drive job creation and retention, putting more than 3,500 people to work as of the end of August. That’s more than double the number of jobs from a month earlier.

So far, the Colorado Department of Transportation has launched 37 road and bridge improvement projects funded with $191 million from the Recovery Act. Another 27 projects worth $72 million have been advertised for bids and will break ground in coming months.

“The Recovery Act is putting more and more Coloradans to work each week and injecting millions of dollars into the economy while improving our highways for the benefit of all Coloradans,” Gov. Ritter said. “These highway projects are helping to drive the state’s economic recovery, which is precisely what the Recovery Act was designed to do.”

As of Aug. 31, CDOT and local agencies have:
-Put out to bid 64 projects worth $263.5 million
-Awarded contracts for 41 projects worth $202 million
-Launched 37 projects worth $191 million
-Put 3,512 people to work on projects
-Paid $4.8 million in payroll

“CDOT staff and contractors have been working hard to quickly and efficiently get projects underway so that more Coloradans can bring home paychecks and support their families,” CDOT Executive Director Russ George said. “We’re taking advantage of Recovery Act funds to help improve the state’s network of highways and bridges – which will have lasting benefits for the entire state.”

For more information about the Recovery Act in Colorado, visit www.colorado.gov/recovery.
Source: Press Release (Posted 4:08p)

Two former Gunnison County Jail employees appeared in court this morning. Both, Melissa Rogers and Michelle Zadra are accused of official misconduct and false reporting. Earlier this month they were ordered to surrender their keys and passes to the Gunnison County Jail. Today’s arraignment led to another court date of October 10th for both women. (Posted 3:52p)

The 2009 Palisade Peach Festival was another one for the record books. “We enjoyed a record number of visitors to all of our events,” said festival chairman, Leif Johnson. “With our new activities, attendance to all of the Peach Festival’s events over the four-day period was up 9%. “Attendance to all events over the four-day period was over 31,500,” said Johnson. “The Peach Festival at Riverbend Park was right around 10,000 paid admissions – our second-best year ever at the Park.”

New activities included the Alpaca Showcase, events in downtown Palisade Friday and Saturday evenings, and the Union Pacific Railroad’s Historic Miniature Parade Train. Governor Bill Ritter, Senator Michael Bennett, and Secretary of State Bernie Buescher enjoyed a visit to the Peach Festival at Riverbend Park Saturday afternoon, coinciding with President Obama’s trip to the Grand Valley. “Michelle Obama and daughters enjoyed a visit to High Country Orchards,” Johnson said. “And Air Force One left Grand Junction Regional Airport with cases of Palisade Peaches.”

The Peach Festival is a major fundraiser for the Palisade Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact the Palisade Chamber of Commerce at (970) 464-7458 or visit their websites at www.palisadecoc.com or www.palisadepeachfest.com.
Source: Press Release (Posted 3:52p)

Life Choices Family Resource Center (formerly known as the Pregnancy Center of Montrose) is holding their 25th Anniversary banquet on October 10th at the Montrose Christian Church. Joneen MacKenzie, founder of WAIT training is the keynote speaker. Tickets are $25 and available at the Center at 200 S. 4th Street in Montrose, Genesis Bookstore, and most churches. Dinner will be catered by Camp Robber.
Source: PSA (Posted 11:46a)

Jury selection is under way in a trial over whether the owners of lifetime ski passes at Colorado’s Keystone resort can rent them out to others. Summit Daily News says early investors in the resort were granted lifetime passes, but when Vail Resorts bought Keystone they announced it would no longer honor the passes if they were rented out. More than 20 pass holders sued, asking a judge to order Vail Resorts to honor rented passes.
Source: Summit Daily News (Posted 10:59a)

This week is a lot of Homecoming celebrations at high schools, with parades, big football games, and dances. Montrose has announced some changes with their Homecoming schedule. This year’s parade is being held on Wednesday at 4:30-not on Friday as in years past, and Friday’s game against Golden is actually at 6, not 7. Check in with your local school to learn of their Homecoming activities! (Posted 10:59a)

Weather permitting, the City of Montrose Street Division will be chip sealing several city streets during the week of September 21-25. Motorists are advised to avoid the following areas wherever possible.

The Gunnison County Substance Abuse Prevention Project was recently awarded a $625,000 grant by the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Crested Butte News says this grant will be awarded over five years and will assist Drug Free Communities in involving youth to prevent and reduce alcohol and other drug abuse among youth.
Source: Crested Butte News (Posted 9:57a)

The Grand Junction Downtown Development Authority is moving forward with plans to renovate Main Street, but this is causing some merchants to be upset. The Daily Sentinel reports that out of 17 400-block businesses, 11 oppose the loss of parking spaces in their area and feel the city and the DDA ignored their concerns. The Downtown Uplift is a two-phase project aimed at repairing crumbling infrastructure, replacing dead trees and adding amenities on Main Street between First and Seventh Streets.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 8:47a)

Six Colorado dairies have filed for bankruptcy protection this year amid banking problems and low milk prices. The Denver Post says four of the banks had loans from Greeley-based New Frontier Bank, which collapsed in April. That raised the prospect that the dairies and other borrowers would be forced out of business if investors who took over the bank’s loans demanded immediate repayment. John Stulp, the state agriculture commissioner, says he learned that investors offered to settle the loans with 2 of the dairies for just 50% of the original debt. Stulp says he doesn’t know what will happen with those deals. Bob Winter, a member of the Colorado Farm Bureau, says he believes more Colorado dairies are preparing to file for bankruptcy protection. He declined to identify them.
Source: Denver Post (Posted 8:46a)

It’s become a hot topic in the health care debate – some doctors say limiting medical malpractice judgments could reduce unnecessary procedures and cut costs. But in Colorado, which already has some of the strictest caps on malpractice awards, some say the result has actually been a loss of justice for many victims of medical negligence. Dan Lipman, a Denver medical malpractice attorney who also sits on the board of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association says that even though Colorado’s current system is bad, he thinks some of the alternatives being proposed, including a special system for malpractice cases mentioned by President Obama, would be much worse. Supporters of such a system say it would speed up the regular court system and allow doctors to be judged by other experienced medical professionals. Lipman says it takes away the constitutional right to a jury trial and due process.
Source: Colorado News Connection (Posted 8:45a)

Last night the Olathe Board of Trustees met during a special meeting to brainstorm on ways to trim their budget. As it stands, the town is facing a $91,000 deficit. Adjusting trash pick up was discussed as well as different options with the Olathe Police Department, Park Services, and furlough days. Discussion will more than likely show up on next week’s regular meeting agenda.
(Posted 6:49a)

Earlier this month, the town of Ridgway approved the first reading of an ordinance that will raise both water and sewer rates. In an article by the Telluride Watch, this increase would be over three years in order to get both operations financially stable. The first sewer rate increase would take effect January 1st. The final approval for the rate increases could go before Ridgway Town Council October 14th.
Source: Telluride Watch (Posted 6:49a)

Autumn begins today and it’s not coming in quietly. CDOT is informing drivers of some chain restrictions and restricted passes this morning due to snowy conditions in the high country. Starting October 1st, we’ll have our road & weather reports up and running again. Until then, for those traveling over Loveland Pass, there is a chain restriction for commercial vehicles. Learn more right here on our website; click the Colorado Road Info tab at the right side of the page.
Source: CDOT (Posted 6:48a)

State highway and Clear Creek fire crews had to clean up after the crash of a tanker that spilled about 4,000 gallons of fuel and closed Berthoud Pass for several hours. According to KJCT, CDOT says the tanker crashed shortly after noon Monday about four miles from the summit in the central-Colorado mountains. The driver escaped with minor injuries.
Source: KJCT/AP (Posted 5:50a)

Former Montrose County Sheriff’s Office employee, Shawn Cline, is announcing his candidacy for Montrose County Sheriff today. Cline began as a deputy with the Sheriff’s Office in 1979 and was promoted to Sergeant in 1994 and then a Patrol Lieutenant in 1999. He retired from the department in 2007. Cline says he wants to be Sheriff for Montrose County because he feels he is more qualified and more experienced than current Sheriff, Rick Dunlap. The announcement takes place at the Looney Bean Coffee House at 10:00am today. (Posted 5:42a)

The Colorado State Parks Board unanimously approved increasing camping fees by $2 per night, reservation fees by $2 and boating registration fees by $10 to $25, depending on the size of the vessel. The proposal to increase the fees was presented to the board in August.

The daily entrance fees and the costs for annual passes will remain the same. The other fee increases, approved by the parks board on Friday, Sept. 18, will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2010.

The proposal is part of a budget reduction strategy that Colorado State Parks has undertaken to manage a $3 million shortfall in state funding for operations in fiscal year 2009-2010 due to the economic downturn. State parks will rely more on user fees to fund operations.

“The fees for daily entry and annual passes will remain the same. We want to minimize the impact on our visitors as much as possible,” said Dean Winstanley, director of Colorado State Parks. “The 42 Colorado State Parks draw nearly 12 million visitors each year and will remain affordable, family-friendly areas where the public can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.”

The fees for camping, reservations and boating registrations have remained the same for three years or more, Winstanley said. Even with the increases, the fees for camping, reservations and boating registrations at Colorado State Parks are still comparable or lower than the fees charged at other state parks, he said.

To offset the shortfall in the state funding, the state parks have already eliminated 12.5 staff positions, reduced the temporary (summer) workforce by 10%, trimmed all operating budgets by 10% and cut back on programs, training, travel, administration, projects and other services. Most state park systems across the country receive state funds, but Colorado State Parks is one of the 10 least subsidized systems in the nation.

Attracting more than 11 million visitors per year, Colorado’s 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 242,531 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,000 campsites, and 57 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.colorado.gov/parks.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:43a)

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NEWS: Monday September 21, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 21st, 2009

Former Montrose County Sheriff’s Office employee, Shawn Cline, is announcing his candidacy for Montrose County Sheriff tomorrow. Cline began as a deputy with the Sheriff’s Office in 1979 and was promoted to Sergeant in 1994 and then a Patrol Lieutenant in 1999. He retired from the department in 2007. Cline says he wants to be Sheriff for Montrose County because he feels he is more qualified and more experienced than current Sheriff, Rick Dunlap. The announcement takes place at the Looney Bean Coffee House at 10:00am tomorrow. (Posted 4:44p)

The Colorado State Parks Board unanimously approved increasing camping fees by $2 per night, reservation fees by $2 and boating registration fees by $10 to $25, depending on the size of the vessel. The proposal to increase the fees was presented to the board in August.

The daily entrance fees and the costs for annual passes will remain the same. The other fee increases, approved by the parks board on Friday, Sept. 18, will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2010.

Throughout 2009, Colorado State Parks is celebrating its 50^th anniversary as a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities.

The Cactus Canyon dance club and bar in Clifton is back open after the club was ordered to be shut down for two weeks earlier in the year. The Daily Sentinel says things went a little too far when a group of male dancers came in and an underage person was served. In addition to the closing, the club had to pay a fine of $4,880.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 4:02a)

$75 a team will sign you and some friends up for the second annual Grape Stomp competition at Black Bridge Winery in Paonia this Saturday. The Delta County Independent says all proceeds from this event and the silent auction benefit the Paonia Public Library Foundation. The event is from 11:00am-3:00pm. This year’s theme is ’50′s television shows (participants are supposed to dress up). The public is invited to come watch and participate in the silent auction.
Source: Delta County Independent (Posted 12:19p)

Montrose County Health and Human Services will have a walk-in flu shot clinic for the regular seasonal flu on Wednesday, October 7th from 7:30am – 4:00pm at 1845 South Townsend. Cost for the flu shot is $25 for adults and $14.50 for children through the age of 18 years. Pneumonia shots will also be available for individuals meeting the requirements. Cost is $45.00 for pneumonia shot. The following insurances are accepted: Medicaid, Medicare, Rocky Mountain HMO, and Child Health Plan Plus. The vaccine for H1N1 will not be available until sometime in October.
Source: PSA (Posted 12:03p)

Ouray County emergency responders took on three calls Saturday. “Medic 4, if you could take that call I would be appreciative, my med kit is still begin brought down by mule.” So went the radio traffic between OC EMS’s Training Officer Stephen Lance & EMS Supervisor Colette Miller as the service was be toned out to investigate a Life Alert Alarm. Which fortunately proved to be unfounded.

A little before 10 am Saturday morning a hunter was tossed from his horse high up on the Cutler Creek Trail resulting in chest injuries and a possible punctured lung. With no cell service at the accident site it took over an hour for one of the injured man’s companions to make it down to an area with cell reception to activate 911.

For the fourth time this year, OC EMS and the Ouray Mountain Rescue Team mobilized a response some six miles into the back country to stabilize, package and begin the transport out of an injured party. And for the third time this year, that patient was brought down low enough after an all day rescue effort, to a landing zone for an air ambulance, near dusk, to fly into an elevated landing zone, this time at 11,500, to pick up the patient and transport him to the hospital.

Due to the extreme elevation of the LZ and weather conditions, the Careflight Durango Air Ambulance first landed in Ouray at Fellin Park to offload their flight paramedic and some excess equipment to lighten the helicopter up enough that the pilot and flight nurse could safely make it up to the LZ and take off again. Fortunately for the flight paramedic, Ouray County Sheriff’s Deputy Richard Herman, SO 4 was just going off duty and was able to give the paramedic a ride up to Montrose Memorial Hospital on his way home, saving everyone from having to coordinate a separate landing and pick up, this time after dark.

As if that was not enough around 4 p.m. a north bound jeep lost control on the sleet slicked roads of highway 550 near mile marker 83 and went off the road and down an 18 feet steep embankment. The jeep rolled ending up on its roof and left the road with enough force to snap an eight inch diameter Aspen tree.

Bystanders, including an off duty OC EMS volunteer, an out of area Licensed Vocational Nurse and a shivering doctor from Hawaii along with sever other tourists all stopped to help the injured couple. The driver was able to get out of the overturned jeep on his own but the passenger was still inside with a head injury and entangled in her seat belts.

Ouray City Police Sgt. Ted Wolfe was first on scene and got control of traffic and had a bystander place a blanket on the shivering patient. He was joined very shortly by the Ouray Ambulance, Squad 11 and Medic 1.

In short order Squad 11 secured the vehicle on the embankment with chains and a come-along device. The patient was cut free of her seat belts, safely moved out of the jeep and secured to a backboard before being carried to the edge of the embankment and then passed up to the roadside by a double line of bystanders & rescuers.

The patient was transported to Montrose Memorial Hospital with a serious head injury where she was stabilized, repackaged and flown up to St. Mary’s Hospital for emergency brain surgery.

In the mean time, Careflight Durango was just dropping off their flight paramedic and other OC EMS and OMRT members were finishing handing off their injured hunter and beginning the long descent off of the mountain as well.

So no one was disappointed when the Life Alert alarm turned out to be a false call.
Source: Press Release (Posted 11:47a)

Tomorrow, the Gunnison Chamber of Commerce is hosting an “Ask the Expert” seminar. These 15-minute sessions are free to Gunnison Chamber members, and are open to the general public. Go to the Holiday Inn Express from 6-8 tomorrow to ask business related questions.
Source: PSA (Posted 10:35a)

Montrose Memorial Hospital will host five physician faculty members from around the country as well as 150 physicians and nurses from Colorado and neighboring States for the 38th Annual Fall Clinics on Friday and Saturday, September 25 and 26. The Clinics are sponsored by Montrose Memorial Hospital and organized by the Fall Clinics Committee of the medical staff.

The program is open to physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers for a small registration fee. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Friday at the Montrose Pavilion, with lectures throughout the day Friday and from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Featured speakers include:

Cardiologist, Larry S. Green, M.D., Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT will speak on Congenital Heart Disease and Valvular Heart Disease in Adults.

Gastroenterologist, Joel S. Levine, M.D., FACP, Professor of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, University Hospital, Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, will speak on Celiac Disease and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Radiologist, Stephen J. Swensen, M.D., Professor of Radiology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota will speak on Diffuse Lung Disease, Patient Safety and The Business Case for Quality

Physiatrist, Paul Tawney, M.D., Duke Health Systems will speak on Pain Management and Low Back Pain.

Nephrologist, Daniel Wochos, M.D., Emeritus, Assistant Professor of Medicine, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona will present on the topics of Kidney Stones and Acute Renal Failure.

For more information or to register, contact Julie Disher at Montrose Memorial Hospital, 240-7394.
Source: Press Release (Posted 9:59a)

Today is the deadline to participate in a community survey for the Town of Ridgway. Ouraynews.com says the survey is to gain ideas and comments on how people want to see Ridgway grow. The last time the town went through a Master Plan update was ten years ago.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 9:43a)

Ouray County Emergency Medical Services will be putting on a First Responder training program Monday and Thursday evenings from 6 – 9 PM concluding with a single all day session Saturday, November 21st. First Responders are trained in everything from CPR to assessment and initial treatment of patients suffering from a wide variety of medical and traumatic injuries ranging from emergency child birth to falls and automobile accidents and most everything in between.

This nationally accredited training program is being run in conjunction with the EMS Division of the Delta-Montrose Technical College. Classes will be held at the Ouray County Land Use Office meeting room in Ridgway.

The all inclusive course cost is $420 which covers tuition, textbook, a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope. OC EMS will pick up part of the course expense for those students who successfully complete the program AND become part of the OC EMS Rural First Responder Corps. Volunteers are particularly needed for the Log Hill, Colona, Pleasant Valley and Elk Meadows neighborhoods.

For more information on the First Responder Course or to enroll, contact OC EMS Training Officer Stephen Lance at 970-325-7275 or e-mail him at slance@ouraycountyco.gov.
Source: PSA (Posted 9:22a)

Tonight, the town of Olathe is holding a special work session to review and brainstorm cost saving measures for the town. Discussion was brought up at last week’s meeting, ultimately leading to a decision to hold the special meeting at 6:30 tonight. A cost-cutting program is expected to be in full swing by October 1st. (Posted 6:47a)

Local law enforcement agencies have joined forces to host the annual Rocky Mountain Women in Law Enforcement (RMWLE) conference that will be held in Grand Junction September 22-25. The RMWLE began as a group of law enforcement people along the Front Range of Colorado, who joined together to network, educate and provide encouragement to each other. Today, this organization touts members from across the state and for the first time Grand Junction will be the host site for the annual conference. More than 120 attendees are anticipated to convene on Grand Junction this week for this conference that supports both men and women, sworn and civilian, in law enforcement.

Attendees to this conference will be coming from around the country and will come from a wide range of policing experience, jobs and backgrounds. More than 10 local officers reside on the RMWLE committee and are involved in the planning and execution of the conference. Fruita and Grand Junction Police Departments, with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office have worked for more than a year to make sure this conference is a success. To view the conference agenda, visit: www.rmwle.org/agenda.html.
Source: Press Release (Posted 6:47a)

This past weekend marked the 15th Annual Council Tree PowWow & Cultural Festival in Delta. In addition to workshops and contests, tipi’s were on display from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. A pow wow or “celebration” as it was first called, was held in the spring to celebrate the new beginning of life. Today most pow wows run June through September. Three tribes helped sponsor this year’s event: the Ute Mountain Utes, the Southern Utes, and the Northern Ute Tribe.
(Posted 6:46a)

Colorado lawmakers and Governor Bill Ritter are hoping to avoid more budget cuts when new revenue figures are released. According to KJCT, the state Department of Revenue says after posting a gain of $36 million above forecast in July, the August revenue collections are down $38 million. The department says both income tax payments and sales tax collections were down in August compared to forecasted amounts.
Source: KJCT/AP (Posted 6:45a)

There are still no significant leads on the fire that burnt down a historic mining cabin in San Miguel County last month. The Daily Planet says a state arson fund upped the reward money for any information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for the fire. The cabin, which had been recently restored, was located in the historic town of Alta. If you know anything about this fire, call 877-892-7766.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 5:46a)

Delta Police arrested a Paonia man last Wednesday after he was accused of harassing children at a church. Reginald Jackson is being held at the Delta County Jail on a $25,000 bond and is facing charges of alleged sexual assault on a child, three counts of child abuse, and two counts of harassment. The 48-year-old was contacted by officers after officials at the First Assembly of God Church reported that he had allegedly harassed three children there.
Source: Delta Police Department (Posted 5:45a)

An inmate at the Buena Vista Correctional Complex is having his art recognized until November 7th at the Western Colorado Center for the Arts in Grand Junction. According to the Daily Sentinel, Jerimy Gadberry draws on the envelopes of the letters he sends to his mother. She submitted the artwork to the gallery and they loved what they saw. The 31-year-old is serving his last days of a three-year sentence for felony menacing.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:45a)

The Pueblo County Coroner confirmed that a body found near San Isabel Lake northwest of Rye is that of a hunter reported missing a week ago. NBC 11 News reports that Rick Greenhood died from a close-range gunshot wound. The 53-year-old was reported missing after failing to return home September 13th from a hunting trip.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 5:43a)

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NEWS: Friday September 18, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 18th, 2009

Local law enforcement agencies have joined forces to host the annual Rocky Mountain Women in Law Enforcement (RMWLE) conference that will be held in Grand Junction September 22-25, 2009. The RMWLE began as a group of law enforcement people along the Front Range of Colorado, who joined together to network, educate and provide encouragement to each other. Today, this organization touts members from across the state and for the first time Grand Junction will be the host site for the annual conference. More than 120 attendees are anticipated to convene on Grand Junction next week for this conference that supports both men and women, sworn and civilian, in law enforcement.

The Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau along with numerous local businesses have donated to the conference. Grand Junction City Manager, Laurie Kadrich, will be the key note speaker-as she worked in law enforcement for more than 14 years.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:14p)

Ouray County Emergency Medical Services will be putting on a First Responder training program Monday and Thursday evenings from 6 – 9 PM concluding with a single all day session Saturday, November 21st. First Responders are trained in everything from CPR to assessment and initial treatment of patients suffering from a wide variety of medical and traumatic injuries ranging from emergency child birth to falls and automobile accidents and most everything in between.

For more information on the First Responder Course or to enroll, contact OC EMS Training Officer Stephen Lance at 970-325-7275 or e-mail him at slance@ouraycountyco.gov.
Source: PSA (Posted 5:13p)

Delta Police arrested a Paonia man Wednesday evening after he was accused of harassing children at a church. Reginald Jackson is being held at the Delta County Jail on a $25,000 bond and is facing charges of alleged sexual assault on a child, three counts of child abuse, and two counts of harassment. The 48-year-old was contacted by officers after officials at the First Assembly of God Church reported that he had allegedly harassed three children at the Church.
Source: Press Release (Posted 4:35p)

There are two new beautiful faces gracing the Palisade Police Department during the Wine Festival this weekend. The Daily Sentinel says 24-year-old Catalina Iacob and 33-year-old Dana Moisa of Romania are in Palisade as part of an international exchange program. They will work with CBI after their time in Palisade.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 11:47a)

The 28th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service will honor four Colorado firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2008. They will be among the 98 men and 5 women from 36 states remembered at the official national service held at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg. Nineteen firefighters who died in previous years will also be honored.

Captain Shane Stewart, age 33, of the Ault-Pierce Fire Protection District died in an apparatus rollover enroute to a medical emergency call on February 23, 2008.

Fire Chief Terry DeVore, age 30, of the Olney Springs Volunteer Fire Department died in a motor vehicle accident due to a bridge collapse in heavy smoke conditions at a wildland fire on April 15, 2008.

Pilot Gert Marais, age 42, of Aero Seat (Colorado State Forest Service Contractor) died in a single engine air tanker crash just after dropping slurry onto the Fort Carson wildland fire on April 15, 2008.

Firefighter John Schwartz, Jr., age 38, Olney Springs Volunteer Fire Department died in a motor vehicle accident due to a bridge collapse in heavy smoke conditions at a wildland fire on April 15, 2008.

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Department of Homeland Security will sponsor the official national tribute on October 4, 2009. This ceremony marks the beginning of National Fire Prevention Week designated by President Obama to focus national attention on the destruction of property and loss of life caused by fire.

As first responders to all natural and manmade emergencies, fire service personnel are in constant danger. During 2008, 103 firefighters died in the line of duty, making firefighting one of the nation’s most dangerous occupations.

More than 5,000 people, including Members of Congress, Administration officials and other dignitaries, members of the fire service, and families and friends of the fallen firefighters will attend the event. Families receive flags flown over the U. S. Capitol and the National Memorial. Honor guard units and fire service personnel from across the U.S. will participate in the National Tribute.

Many fire departments across the country will conduct simultaneous services, lower flags to half-staff, sound sirens at noon, and observe a moment of silent tribute.

For further information, visit Weekend.FireHero.org. The website includes a complete list of this year’s honored fallen firefighters, a video introduction to the Memorial weekend, images of previous memorial services, satellite coordinates for broadcast and more.

About the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) The United States Congress created the NFFF to lead a nationwide effort to remember America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the nonprofit foundation has developed and expanded programs to honor fallen fire heroes and assist their families and coworkers. For more information on the Foundation and its programs contact us at 301-447-1365 or visit www.FireHero.org.
Source: Press Release (Posted 10:36a)

Mesa County is projecting to spend nearly $1.5 million dollars towards the design and construction of a bridge to take wastewater from Whitewater across the Colorado River to the Clifton Sanitation District. The Daily Sentinel says this bridge is a part of the county’s growth projections as they are in the process of building a government campus near the Mesa County Landfill.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 10:23a)

COLORADO LABOR FORCE DEVELOPMENTS FOR AUGUST 2009
Labor Force
Colorado’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell one half of one percentage point to 7.3 percent, according to Donald J. Mares, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. “This improvement is encouraging news for the state,” said Mares. “Although we will likely experience some ups and downs over the next several months, employment appears to be stabilizing,” he added. The August 2008 unemployment rate was 4.9 percent.

The number of working Coloradans grew 4,900 over the month to 2,485,800 out of a civilian labor force of 2,682,700. The number of residents unsuccessfully seeking work fell 13,100 to 196,900. Last August total employment was 2,597,200, the civilian labor force was 2,731,300 and the number of unemployed was 134,100.

Local economic conditions improved as the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) declined in 62 of Colorado’s 64 counties. The lowest rate was 2.3 percent in Cheyenne County while the highest was 13.4 percent in Dolores County. Last year only 28 counties experienced an over the month unemployment rate decline, while 23 county rates increased and 13 were unchanged. In August 2008 the lowest rate was 2.3 percent in Yuma County and the highest was 10.5 percent in Saguache County.

Wage and Salary Employment
The monthly survey of Colorado business establishments indicates nonfarm wage and salary jobs (not seasonally adjusted) decreased 1,500 in August to 2,260,500. Modest employment changes are typical for this time of year.

Employment in three of Colorado’s eleven major industry sectors increased over the month. Government added 4,200 jobs as educators returned to work for the school year. Leisure and hospitality payrolls increased 1,300 while other services were up 200. The loss of 1,300 jobs in trade, transportation and utilities was driven by a drop in wholesale and retail trade resulting from reduced consumer spending. Professional and business services and education and health services each declined by 1,200 jobs while the mining and logging, construction, and manufacturing sectors each declined by 800 jobs. Financial activities and information declined by 700 and 400 jobs, respectively.

Nonfarm payroll employment has decreased over the year by 4.6 percent or 109,400 from the August 2008 level of 2,369,900. While the rate of job loss has been increasing steadily for almost a year, this trend is expected to reverse over the next few months.

Two of Colorado’s eleven major industry sectors increased over the year. Education and health services grew 6,100, while government increased 5,100. Professional and business services and construction, down 28,600 and 23,300, respectively, account for almost half of Colorado’s employment losses. Other losses are: trade, transportation and utilities (19,300), manufacturing (15,600), leisure and hospitality (12,300) financial activities (9,300), mining and logging (5,200), information (4,900), and other services (2,100).

National
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nation’s unemployment rate was 9.7 percent and nonfarm payroll employment declined by 216,000 in August. In recent months, job losses have moderated and the August decline is the smallest in the past year. While health care increased 28,000, employment declined over the month in construction and manufacturing, down 65,000 and 63,000, respectively.
Source: Press Release (Posted 10:22a)

The dead horse laying on the side of a road in Grand Junction has been removed. NBC 11 News says the horse was hit by a car yesterday morning at E and 31 Roads. A veterinarian had to put it down, but left it lying on the shoulder of the road. The horse remained there for more than 10 hours. Colorado State Patrol says it’s up to the owners to remove the body.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 7:22a)

Tom Clark is waiting on financing to expand his market in Telluride, an item that’s been on his drawing board since 2004. The Daily Planet reports that the expansion is set to include adding 12,000 square feet to the market and 15,000 square feet of condos above the store, but no bank is willing to loan the money without knowing the condos will sell. Clark’s Market would like to see a groundbreaking on the expansion after this year’s ski season.
Source: Daily Planet (Posted 7:22a)

Thanks to the West Elk Mine, Hotchkiss now has a mobile incident command post converted from a 1981 ambulance. According to the Delta County Independent, the ambulance has only 8,000 miles on it and will be used for responding to different types of fires, hazardous material spills, and floods. The mobile command post is outfitted with communications and command technology ranging from hand held radios to it’s own cell phone repeated and internet capability. The Hotchkiss Fire Department plans on adding to the post in the future with things to increase the cell phone range and more.
Source: Delta County Independent (Posted 7:21a)

If you find yourself with nothing to do this weekend, blame no one but yourself. This weekend is packed with area festivities! There is high school football action tonight, some home games include: Montrose and Hotchkiss. Nucla plays at home tomorrow. There is a high school soccer game tomorrow at Montrose. State Representative Scott Tipton is in the area today (Ridgway at 10:00a, Norwood at 3:00p, and Nucla at 6:00p). This weekend is the 16th annual Blues & Brews festival in Telluride. In Delta, today begins the 15th annual Council Tree Pow Wow & Cultural Festival. Tonight is the Alzheimer’s Dinner Gala & Silent Auction at Sunrise Creek Senior Living Community in Montrose. Tomorrow is the Montrose Chamber of Commerce’s Black Canyon Ball as well as the Montrose Regional Airport Appreciation Day. Also, the media day at Thunder Mountain Raceway has been rescheduled and is set for tomorrow evening. Most of these events have a small fee, but are worthwhile! (Posted 7:21a)

It has been determined that the skull and bones found in the Somerset area are those of a female, probably in her 20′s. Additional resources have been and will be at the discovery site over the next few days in an attempt to locate further remains.

Colorado Bureau of Investigation databases have been used to locate the names and dates of missing persons who had gone missing in a suspected time from of 10 to 15 years, those departments with missing persons are being contacted in an attempt to garner information on the persons.

The skull contained two viable teeth so the possibility of a dental match up for identification is being considered and flowed up on at this time.

Western State College Anthropology Department has offered to do an extensive search of the area under supervision of law enforcement and this will take place in the next few days.

Due to a lack of conclusive evidence and a lack of constructive leads, this case may be under investigation for a good long time.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:34a)

The former Grand Junction High School Activities Director will be on trial starting Monday. The Daily Sentinel says jurors are being picked as we speak. Johnnie Walker is charged with felony counts of attempted internet luring of a child and attempted child enticement.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 5:38a)

Photographer Lloyd Engen of the Valley Courier in Alamosa continues to recover in a Denver hospital after a hard hit while taking pictures during a high school football game earlier this month. The paper says Engen was on the sidelines during a Norwood/Sangre De Christo game when a tackle went out of bounds, crushing him. It’s unknown if he’ll walk again. (Posted 5:37a)

State Representative Scott Tipton will be holding multiple town hall meetings throughout the 58th Representative District. Representative Tipton has released the following schedule. The public is invited.
September 18th
10:00am at the Ridgway Community Center in Town Hall
201 North Railroad Street
Ridgway, CO

3:00pm at the Log Cabin
Norwood, CO

6:00pm at the Nucla Fire Hall
Source: PSA (Posted 5:35a)

President Barack Obama has endorsed incumbent Michael Bennet in Colorado’s Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate. NBC 11 News says Obama praised Bennet’s work in the Denver mayor’s office, as the city’s public schools chief and in the private sector. Obama strongly considered asking Bennet to be his secretary of education.
Source: NBC 11 News/AP (Posted 5:37a)

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NEWS: Thursday September 17, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 17th, 2009

The skull contained two viable teeth so the possibility of a dental match up for identification is being considered and flowed up on at this time.

Western State College Anthropology Department has offered to do an extensive search of the area under supervision of law enforcement and this will take place in the next few days.

Due to a lack of conclusive evidence and a lack of constructive leads, this case may be under investigation for a good long time.
Source: Press Release (Posted 4:33p)

Cheryl McMillan, age 56, and Marion McMillan, age 61, both of whom now reside in Newton, Kansas, were sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Christine M. Arguello to serve federal prison sentences for tax evasion, United States Attorney David Gaouette and the Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office Christopher Sigerson announced. Cheryl McMillan was sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $106,887.56. Marion McMillan was sentenced to serve 6 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, with the first 6 months of release on home detention with electronic monitoring. He was also ordered to pay restitution joint and several with his wife to the IRS, in the amount of $35,868.73. Both defendants are free on bond. They were ordered to report to a Bureau of Prisons facility within 15 days of designation. The tax evasion took place while Marion McMillan was the President of the Bank of Durango, and Cheryl McMillan was the Vice President and chief Cashier of the Bank of Durango. They are husband and wife.

Cheryl and Marion McMillan were charged by Information on January 9, 2009 for filing false and fraudulent tax returns. They both pled guilty before Judge Arguello on April 10, 2009. They were sentenced today, September 17, 2009.

According to the stipulated facts contained in the defendants’ plea agreements, as well as their Criminal Informations, for tax year 2003, there was $102,731.15 in undeclared income as a result of embezzlements by Cheryl McMillan from the Bank of Durango. For tax year 2004, there was approximately $112,169.14 in undeclared income as a result of Cheryl McMillan’s embezzlements from the Bank of Durango.

On or about May 7, 2004, the Board of Directors of the Bank of Durango became aware of the embezzlements and asked for the resignations of both Cheryl and Marion McMillan.

In Marion McMillan’s plea agreement, on April 15, 2005, he signed a Form 1040, U.S. Individual Tax Return for tax year 2004. He was informed of the embezzlement by an outside audit team in November 2004, yet he failed to report the money as income. In total, the government’s evidence would show that the McMillans return was understated, resulting in a tax under payment of approximately $36,000.00. As a result of the embezzlements, there is a total tax loss for tax years 2001 through 2004 of approximately $106,000.00.

“No matter who you are, if you unlawfully evade your income taxes, there will be criminal consequences,” said U.S. Attorney David Gaouette.

“The taxpayer is ultimately responsible for their tax liability regardless if the income is embezzled,” said Christopher Sigerson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Denver Field Office.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Denver Field Office (IRS-CI).

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Mydans.
Source: Press Release (Posted 4:04p)

Attorney General Eric Holder today announced that $500,000 in Recovery Act funds was awarded to a Colorado organization by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) Recovery Act Transitional Housing Program. The funds are being awarded to Crossroads Safehouse in Fort Collins, CO.

“The most vulnerable in our society too often bear the greatest burden in times of economic hardship, which is why dedicating these funds to help survivors and their families get back on their feet is a concrete example of the Recovery Act at work,” said Attorney General Holder. “Providing viable temporary housing options and services that promote self-sufficiency are critical and proven steps toward violence-free lives.”

The Department of Justice is awarding $500,000 to Crossroads Safehouse to expand its Housing Opportunity and Mentoring Enrichment (HOME) Project. The funds will be used to open 10 additional units of transitional housing for victims and create a holistic, bilingual victim-centered program though collaboration with 22 community organizations to support survivors in their self-sufficiency goals. The project will also improve the accessibility of Crossroads’ HOME Program for clients with disabilities, help relieve financial burdens for all current residents of the program and build employment stabilization and economic growth into all aspects of this program.

The landmark American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, signed into law by President Obama, provides the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) with $43 million for the Transitional Housing Assistance Program to provide holistic, victim-centered support services that move individuals into permanent housing.

Transitional housing programs meet the goals of the Recovery Act through employing victim advocates and other personnel to assist victims, renovating housing for victims, offering additional housing units, and increasing job opportunities for victims through training, education and other support services. The award period for these grants is 24-36 months.

OVW, a component of the U.S. Department of Justice, provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence against women through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

More information is available at www.ovw.usdoj.gov.
Source: Press Release (Posted 12:18p)

Investigators have found more bones and other evidence near Bear Creek outside Somerset where a human skull was found last weekend. Gunnison County Undersheriff Rick Besecker tells NBC 11 News that the additional bones are believed to be human. It appears the bones have been there a long time. A firewood gatherer found the skull Saturday along Bear Creek near Somerset, about 60 miles east of Grand Junction.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 11:56a)

Photographer Lloyd Engen of the Valley Courier continues to recover in a Denver hospital after a hard hit while taking pictures during a high school football game earlier this month. The paper says Engen was on the sidelines during a Norwood/Sangre De Christo game when a tackle went out of bounds, crushing him. It’s unknown if he’ll walk again. (Posted 11:56a)

September 17th
10:00am at the Creamery Art Gallery
165 West Bridge Street
Hotchkiss, CO

2:00pm at the Olathe Community Center
115 Main
Olathe, CO

6:30pm at the Montrose Library
320 South 2nd
Montrose, CO

September 18th
10:00am at the Ridgway Community Center in Town Hall
201 North Railroad Street
Ridgway, CO

3:00pm at the Log Cabin
Norwood, CO

6:00pm at the Nucla Fire Hall
Source: PSA (Posted 9:54a)

Durango officials say sales tax revenue dropped 10.2% in July compared with a year earlier, the fourth straight monthly decline. The Durango Herald says July is a key month for the travel industry in Durango. These numbers mean more spending cuts.
Source: Durango Herald (Posted 9:53a)

Pueblo County authorities say a body found in rugged country southwest of Pueblo may be that of a hunter reported missing last weekend. The Pueblo Chieftain says it may be the body of 53-year-old Ricky Greenhood from Rye who never returned from a hunting trip Sunday. Rye is about 30 miles southwest of Pueblo.
Source: Pueblo Chieftain (Posted 9:27a)

High School Homecomings are around the corner and Montrose has a few changes this year. The Homecoming Parade is Wednesday September 23rd, not on a Friday as in years past, and the football game, Friday September 25th against Golden will be at 6 o’clock, not 7. Get all your local sports information right here on our website. Simply click the Sports Guide tab at the top of the page!
(Posted 9:27a)

Ladies get your poles ready as the groundbreaking for Grand Junction’s soon-to-be strip club is set to take place later this month. The Daily Sentinel reports that after months of discussion with the city, businessman Kevin Eardley is set to begin construction on his club to be named, Fantasy, at 2258 Colex Drive. The last strip club in Grand Junction closed in 2005.
Source: Daily Sentinel (Posted 8:18a)

On September 13, 2009 Garfield County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue responded to two separate calls for help.

Garfield County Emergency Communications Center received the first call on September 12th, 2009 at approximately 11:44 pm from Lisa Briscoe of New Castle, CO reporting her husband Ryan Briscoe and two friends, Jacob Maulden and John Poindexter overdue from a mountain bike trip in the Clinetop Mesa area northwest of New Castle.

The three men had been dropped off by friends at the top of Hadley Gulch on Clinetop Mesa at approximately 5:00 pm, and were going to ride their mountain bikes down Hadley Gulch to the bottom of the Clinetop Road. After the bike riders failed to arrive at the designated pickup point, their friends and family became concerned and requested assistance in locating them. Four Garfield County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue personnel responded to the Hadley Gulch trailhead at 2:58 am on September 13th and met the family members who had remained in the area. A ground team hiked up the trail and contacted the three mountain bikers at 7:38 am. The men were uninjured and had taken shelter from a thunderstorm approximately half way down the 4 mile long canyon. All parties were reunited without injuries at 8:06 am on Sunday, September 13, 2009.

Garfield County Emergency Communications Center received the second call at approximately 10:50 pm on September 13, 2009 from 48 year old Rodney Wulff of Minnesota. Mr. Wulff reported he and his hunting partner had been elk hunting in the Coffee Pot area of the Flattops Wilderness in the White River National Forest. His hunting partner, 58 year old Kenneth Hemp had not returned to their set rendezvous point that evening.

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue set up a command post at Broken Rib Trailhead, located on Forest Rd 600 at 3:40 am on Monday, September 14, 2009. Search and Rescue performed a search of the area on ATV’s, but briefly suspended the search until daylight.

As the search team resumed their efforts that morning the lost hunter arrived, uninjured, at the incident command location. He had become lost after dusk on Sunday, and was unable to find his way back to the rendezvous point. The hunter had built a fire under trees to stay warm after a late evening thunderstorm, and had decided to wait until daylight to find his way out of the area. He was found by other hunters approximately three miles northeast of his last known location the next morning and was led back to the command post. The two men were reunited at approximately 7:48 am.

Garfield County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue averages approximately 35 to 50 search and rescue missions annually. In the last two months they have had missions every weekend, oftentimes with multiple calls on those weekends, and have totaled over 40 calls for service so far this year.

Citizens are reminded to take precautions when in the back country. Always bring adequate clothing including rain gear and clothing that can be layered due to inclement weather patterns, bring adequate food and water, and always let someone know where you are going and when you will return.
Source: Press Release (Posted 8:18a)

Mesa County has agreed to spend $1.2 million to extend a trail along the Colorado River by 2 1/2 miles. KJCT says the county commissioners voted Monday to extend the Riverfront Trail from the James M. Robb-Colorado River State Park eastward. It will cross at least two parcels of private land.
Source: KJCT/AP (Posted 8:17a)

A Grand Junction teenager made a daring escape after a car crash last week. NBC 11 News says Stormy Daily hit a guardrail and crashed into a canal last Thursday morning, causing her car to be completely submerged underwater. She was able to crawl through a broken window and swim to shore. Daily walked home soaking wet. Police say the 18-year-old is lucky to be alive.
Source: NBC 11 News (Posted 6:52a)

For the third year in a row, Ridgway Secondary School 11th graders scored above average in all four subject areas on it’s annual ACT report from the Department of Education. Ouraynews.com reports that this is also the third year the schools have implemented an ACT preparation class. The school is also offering two additional college credited classes this year, bringing the total number of higher education classes up to five.
Source: Ouraynews.com (Posted 6:52a)

Colorado top gun, Ron Avery of Olathe, finished 14th in the Production division at the Smith & Wesson 2009 U.S. Practical Shooting Association’s (USPSA) National Handgun Championships held September 12-15.

Avery finished 200 points behind first place shooter and defending national champion Bob Vogel of Wapakoneta, Ohio, with a final score of 1255.3852. Avery is ranked a Master, the second highest skill level in the sport of Practical Shooting.

The match, which was held at the Desert Sportsman’s Rifle & Pistol Club outside Las Vegas, drew 145 top Production division shooters including 26 Master shooters and 16 Grand Masters making it one of the most competitive matches in recent years. More than 44,000 rounds were put downrange in the quest to capture the Production Division National Championship title.

The sport of Practical Shooting was formally established in 1976 but traces its roots back to the 1950′s and the quick draw “leather slap” competitions that grew out of America’s love affair with the TV westerns of that era. Today the sport represents the upper echelon of the shooting sports with many of its top shooters actively training law enforcement and military units on shooting techniques and equipment developed in competition.

For more information visit www.uspsa-nationals.org.
Source: Press Release (Posted 6:51a)

Jacob Vaughn is expected to have lifelong issues from a car accident he suffered in early July. Vaughn is a 2009 Montrose High School graduate and was traveling with his brother and friends in New Mexico, headed to the Warped Tour, when the car driven by Calina Biaze, was overcorrected after it veered off the road, causing it to roll several times.

A golf fundraiser is being held for Jacob September 28th. Deadline to sign up is September 21st. The event is sponsored and being held at The Bridges golf course in Montrose. The silent auction starts at 11:00am and golf tournament begins at 1:00pm with a shotgun start. Tickets are $75.00 person (this price covers the green fee and lunch). Teams of four are needed, and you can make your own or The Bridges will help you make one. Visit The Bridges golf shop or call 252-8899 to sign up.

Jacob is still recovering. Below is a letter from his parents:

“Jacob is doing great..Although he will have life long issues from this, we are so grateful he is alive. We were told his injures were so much that doctors said to me, “When I looked at the CT scan, I said, I guess this kid is brain dead. When I heard he wasn’t I had to come talk to him to see for myself, (he looked at Jacob and said) son, God has great plans for you, or you wouldn’t be here.” So by the grace of GOD, my son is still with us.There is titanium holding his skull together and some in his face along with a plaster kind of substance that will dissolve over the next year. He will be under the care of an Ear, Nose, & Throat Specialists for the rest of his life that will also monitor the progress of his mucus membrane which needs to have a coating inserted soon to help protect his brain. He must be very careful around smoke of any kind which could trigger a stroke or seizure.The bad..
He still has physical therapy 2 to 3 times a week. They are working on his balance, right shoulder, left leg, and entire back up to his neck. He cannot life his right are to grab things without intense pain. He has sciatica nerve damage running throughout his left leg. There is constant back pain. He suffers from severe migraines all the time (his pain meds bring the pain level down to about a 2 or a 3 out of 10) otherwise it is an 8 or 9 out of 10.

More good..
There is no known damage to his brain. Jacob got his driving privilege back last week (he was so excited he called and texted everyone). He is allowed to do a lot more things than he was allowed over the last 2 months. We have been told his is healing at rapid speeds. He looks great. I don’t think any of it is noticeable. He is still out happy, good spirited son!

Thank you..
Thank you for all your support, Love and most of all prayers. This town is still full of good people that care. We have been blessed to be a part of this community it is out home town. We just keep reminding Jacob that, no matter what out debt is from all of this, at least we still have our sons.PLEASE come and say “hi” to Jacob on September 28th at The Bridges Golf Tournament they are sponsoring for him. He would love to see everyone.

Lots of Love from our family….
Luther and Cathie Medina”

Donations to help the Vaughn family are being accepted at San Juan Mountains Credit Union at 1102 S. Cascade in Montrose.

(Posted 6:36a)

The Montrose County Coroner’s Office is investigating the death of Gerardo Velazquez the male who died Saturday after being booked in the Montrose County Jail. Initial autopsy findings indicate that this most likely is a natural death with no evidence of significant trauma. The Daily Press says the 45-year-old was intoxicated and was checked on every 15 minutes.
Source: Press Release
Source: The Daily Press contributed to this story
(Posted 5:44a)

Those interested in participating in a voluntary land conservation program can sign up until September 30th. The Norwood Post reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service administers the Conservation Stewardship Program that encourages agricultural and forestry producers to adopt additional conservation practices. Learn more at co.nrcs.usda.gov.
Source: Norwood Post (Posted 5:43a)

Almost 40% of the students at Cesar Chavez Academy in Colorado Springs are sick with what is presumed to be H1N1 flu. According to the Gazette, a spokesman for the charter school says five teachers and 86 of the school’s 231 students were out yesterday, compared to 52 on Monday and 69 on Tuesday.
Source: Colorado Springs Gazette (Posted 5:42a)

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest, Ouray Ranger District, announced the availability of the historic Silesca Ranger Station Cabin for recreation use (by reservation) for citizens.

The historic Silesca Ranger Station Cabin is situated on the Uncompahgre Plateau at 9,200 feet in a beautiful meadow with aspen and spruce/fir dominating the landscape. Located 45 minutes from the city of Montrose on Highway 90, visitors can expect a rustic cabin set back 100 feet from of the main road providing opportunities for privacy and solitude. There are a number of outdoor recreational opportunities available to visitors including hiking, mountain biking, motorized recreation horseback riding, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The cabin is accessible by passenger vehicle via dirt road.

The Silesca Cabin is a great destination for anything from a weekend getaway to a week long hunting trip (located in Unit 62). Amenities include three bedrooms and six twin size beds, one bathroom with a shower and flush toilet, an electric stove, refrigerator, limited cooking utensils and dishware, electricity, running water (non-potable), wood burning stove, and a fire ring. The cabin cost $120.00/night and can house up to six people.

This year, the cabin will be available for rent from September 16^th through October 26^th.
Reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov. For further information, please contact the Ouray Ranger District at (970) 240-5300.
Source: Press Release (Posted 5:38a)

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NEWS: Wednesday September 30, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 30th, 2009

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NEWS: Thursday September 17, 2009Posted by Janine Mayfield on September 17th, 2009