Year in Review 2008 for Montrose, CO

YEAR in REVIEW

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2008

Year in Review 2008

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Year in Review 2008 TUESDAY, JANUARY 1 Top Stories 2007

its legal fees after a suit filed by Thomas Hulet was dismissed as frivolous. Hulet sued Pioneer General, along with Kruse and other county officials because he does not believe it is lawful to require him to pay income tax.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2 Zero DUIs for New Year's Bringing in the New Year was pretty dull for the Montrose Police Department on New Year's Eve. Residents of Montrose took advantage of shuttles and taxi service to stay safe after parties.

"It was actually a pretty quite night," said Montrose Police Sgt. Dennis Beery.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3 Wages increase, foreclosure sale date extended Several new 2008 state laws are providing more money for workers and helping struggling homeowners. Minimum wage rose 17 cents per hour to $7.02 per hour in Colorado. Homeowners who are facing foreclosure are given more time to bring payments up to date.

Gigi Ann's Marketplace burglarized A 230-pound safe was taken from the business over the holiday weekend. The safe was taken from an office which was secured with a PIN code lock. It was found in a ditch Wednesday morning. No other items were taken from the store.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 MEDC presents audit to council Montrose Economic Development Corporation submitted a financial audit to City Council that had been requested last fall.

Councilor Noelle Hagan said the audit was "not that big an issue," the council likes to make sure organizations receiving public funding are top notch. In addition to presenting the audit, MEDC executive director Sandy Head announced that they are working with their attorney to develop a policy to ensure that individuals involved with the corporation could recuse themselves from situations in which possible personal conflicts could arise.

Olathe wreck claims life of boy A dump truck driver slammed into the back of a 1999 Ford Windstar sending it spinning into a pole. An 8-year old boy in the van died when it hit the traffic signal pole. The driver of the dump truck was sited with careless driving causing death. Additional charges as a result of the investigation are pending.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 8-year old victim of Olathe car accident identified Josiah McCracken, age 8, sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead at Montrose Memorial Hospital. The 1999 Ford Winstar in which he was a passenger was stopped at a red light when it was struck by a 2000 Kenworth Truck. The driver of the truck was charged with careless driving causing death.

MHS/OHS win duals The Indians garnered seven pins as they beat the Mesa Ridge Grizzles, 59-16 on the eve of the Indian Classic.

The Olathe High wrestling team in nine of its 14 matches as it beat Pueblo East 73-6.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 6 Truck crashes into Wal-Mart Several people were injured, 4 hospitalized, and the store evacuated when a white Ford F-150 pickup smashed through the north entrance of Wal-Mart. The truck crashed through the entrance, into the jewelry department and stopped in the photo department. The injuries were not life-threatening and the unidentified 58-year old driver is suspected to have suffered a medical condition prior to driving into the building.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

January 2 - Adrian Joseph Enrique was the first baby born at Montrose Memorial Hospital in 2008. The healthy 6 pound, 11 ounce baby boy arrived at 6:35 a.m.

Tuesday to Olathe parents Rebecca Pena and Alfredo Enrique.

is offering new classes and workshops to get people motivated to be outdoors. Cross-country ski clinics will be offered for ages 6 to 13. Also offered are snowshoeing classes and all of the traditional indoor activities such as swimming, cardio kickboxing, climbing wall, and other classes.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 8 Police chief latest burglary victim Montrose Police Chief Tom Chinn has spent years investigating burglaries. Last Thursday though, he and his wife experienced the crime personally as someone broke into their home and stole several items, including his wife's computer.

Hideout Lake wins approval Hideout Lake's final development plan to address internal zoning was approved by Montrose County Commissioners. The development will be required to address other issues such as traffic, road improvements, wildlife plan, etc. when they submit their Preliminary Plan. This 943-acre development is to include 283 lots at a density of 1 unit per 2.5 acres and more than 45% open space.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9 Icy Conditions; Crashes galore in wake of hazardous weather Several accidents Tuesday morning were attributed in part to icy conditions. Weather kept the Colorado State Patrol busy during the morning commute. Monday's snowfall, followed by overnight freezing temperatures made for a slick drive.

Snowfall could make ice climbing more difficult Ouray prepares for Ice Festival.

Ice climbing will be more difficult due to the more than 20 inches of snow that fell in Ouray over the past few days. But organizers say it will not have a significant impact on climbing as the Ice Festival kicks off today. There are 50 open competitors lined up for the festival.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 10 Colorado caucuses kick off Feb. 5 In preparation for the Colorado caucuses on "Super Tuesday", 2008 U.S. presidential primaries and caucuses begin shaping election possibilities. Caucuses are a more informal process in which delegates are selected to attend the county assembly.

The county recently increased the number of precincts to 28.

The caucuses usually see between 10 and 20 registered voters per precinct. The parties will meet in March at the county level and the state's official presidential primaries will occur in August.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 11 Man remains jailed in homeinvasion case; other suspects on bail Bond for Joseph Ghini, one of three men accused in an alleged home invasion, will remain at $75,000, a judge decided Thursday.

Montrose County Sheriff Rick

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

January 6 - A Montrose County Sheriff's deputy stands next to a white Ford pickup in the Montrose Wal-Mart shopping store Saturday afternoon. Witnesses say that a man was slumped over in his seat as he drove through the front doors coming to a stop in the store's electronics department.

MONDAY, JANUARY 7 Driver had heart condition 58-year old Joe Szymanoski, driver of the truck that crashed through the store, suffered a massive heart attack just prior to driving through the door. He is in critical condition in the ICU at Montrose Memorial Hospital.

Wal-Mart reopened Sunday after crash and will remain open during construction.

Rec district gears up for activities The Montrose Recreation District

January 4, 2009 3

Dunlap said that Ghini, along with Joshua Boots and Michael Walker JR, is accused of seconddegree assault causing serious injury and second-degree burglary for entering a home on Chipeta Drive and attacking the two men who lived there. Boots and Walker are free on bond.

Nearby mountain passes open after avalanche mitigation The storm last weekend forced the closure of six passes in the region and resulted in several av-

alanches. Only Red Mountain Pass remains closed, but is expected to be open today following its Jan. 5 avalanche closure, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.

CDOT spokesperson, Nancy Shanks, said, "They're working some long hours to get it open."

She added that plows, snow blowers, loaders, hoes and artillery were used to clear Highway 550.

'Bee' a winner - local student spells his way to state Wyatt Roddey, a fourth grader at Johnson Elementary, will join other spelling bee winners from around the state in Denver this March. The winner from the state spelling bee will move on to compete in the Scripp's National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C. in May. SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 County legal tab climbs The county will hire top-dollar attorneys Robert Youle and Larry Theis to defend it in an anti-trust brought by JetAway Aviation.

Youle and Theis both have broad experience in anti-trust litigation.

The anti-trust suit, filed late last year, is just the latest in the increasingly bitter legal battle between JetAway and the county offer the FBO contract.

JetAway files deed of trust JetAway Aviation, LLC and One Creative Place, LLC have placed a lien on their property owned in Montrose, identifying Paul and Michael Girdner its lenders. Girdner also signed as the borrower on behalf of the LLCs. This is not unheard of as he is a "manager or managing member of JetAway Aviation, LLC" and would have the power to act on behalf of the company.

Should JetAway default on repaying its lender, the public trustee of Montrose County can be directed to sell the property meaning the Girdner family could be first in line for any of those benefits according to the deed of trust filed Dec. 20th.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13 Homeless in Montrose Cut off from families and society, without the ability to get back into it, residents manage to eke out existence. Life under the Hwy 550 bridge is just that, life. For those living under the bridge, it is their way of life and they simply don't know how to live any other way.

MONDAY, JANUARY 14 Ice festival offers more than climbing Though many outdoor enthusiasts come to the Ouray Ice Festival to climb, there are a myriad of outdoor activities to be enjoyed.

This year marks the second annual Redfeather Showshoe Race, a slackline competition, and The North Face ice axe throwing competition.

Help needed for 2008 MHS graduation party Preparations are underway for the 2008 Montrose High School graduation party. The celebration will include activities from Casino Night to dance contests. Leslie Musselman, event chairwoman, said they need parents to help volunteer and donations of cash and prizes.

Since its inception, several years ago, there have been no serious accidents on graduation night and approximately 94 percent of the seniors stay through the end of the party.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 15 Resident announces candidacy for city council Susan Welks-Valdez, 57, announced Monday her bid for the Montrose City Council District IV seat.

Welks-Valdez works as a bilingual paralegal for Gallegos Law office.

"It just felt like the right time," she said. "I've been back in the community for a number of years and I'm at an age where I’ve had a variety of experience."

As a city councilor, she would make efforts to support the downtown area and include all citizens in addressing city issues.

County poised to fight claim involving former clerk The county stands behind form clerk and recorder, Carol Kruse, as she battles Pioneer General bonding company. Pioneer General claims that Kruse should pay

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16 Tougher penalties for alcohol violations A city ordinance is being drafted for consideration to get tougher on businesses whose employees fail liquor compliance checks.

Just how to enforce liquor compliance checks is being debated, but a draft ordinance to require server training could be presented in February.

Olathe approves conditional use for industrial district housing Olathe farms will be eligible to house foreign workers on visas within the town's industrial district following a recent decision by the board of trustees.

Tuxedo Corn Company owner, John Harold, submitted a request for temporary housing last year to provide a living quarters for seasonal laborers on visas. The ordinance passed will allow the company to bring in more workers on agriculture visas.

Panthers give MHS all it can handle In a game that featured about as many turnovers as baskets made, the Indians were never able to pull away from the Panthers in a 59-47 win that felt much closer than the final score would indicate.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17 Sexually violent predator returns to area The sheriff's office will hold a public meeting at Friendship Hall tonight, to notify the public that Nelson Lesperance has returned to the area until Feb. 5. Lesperance was released from prison in 2006 after serving time on his 1999 guilty plea to sexual assault on a child as a class-4 felony.

Because of the nature of his offense, he was classified as a sexually violent predator requiring the sheriff's office to notify everyone within 1 mile of where he is staying.

City council candidate announces bid Gail Marvel, 59, announced Wednesday her candidacy for the Montrose City Council District III seat. Marvel credits her bid to attending the 2007 Uncompahgre Valley Leadership Program.

As a city councilor, she would support the staff, help sort through options and see what's best for residents.

Mayor Pro-Tem Carlos Guara, who occupies the at-large seat, also announced he is running for a fourth term.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18 Sex predator meeting postponed The public notification meeting concerning a sexually violent predator has been postponed.

Nelson Lesperance was arrested for violating a protection order.

He bonded out and has five business days to formally register his new address with the sheriff's office. Another public meeting has been slated for Jan. 22 at the sheriff's office.

State argues against Hale killer's appeal The Colorado Attorney General ruled that Jason Fiske was sentenced fairly, when the court sent him to prison for 22 years for the death of Kevin Hale.

Fiske appealed his sentence tot he Colorado Court of Appeals last September. His attorneys argued the local trial court violated Fiske's Sixth and Fourteenth Amendment rights which resulted in an excessive sentence.

Assistant Attorney General Katharine Gillespie said that was not the case.

City clerk resigns after more than 10 years Montrose City Clerk Sharleen Walker has announced her resignation effective Jan. 30 after more than 10 years serving the city.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19 Sales-tax exemptions sought for ag Farmers hoping for sales tax exemptions might have to look at the ballot box. Fred Miller and others in agri-business in Montrose County seek to help agriculture stay viable by exempting agriculture. County commissioners decide it must pass on the ballot before taking further action.

BARTON GLASSER / DAILY PRESS

January 18 - Old Glory flaps in a gentle breeze outside the Olathe Post Office.

Serra, who took the reins of top prosecutor after Tom Raynes resigned, officially announced his candidacy Friday.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 20 MEDC receives city's $40,000 disbursement Despite controversy over a potential conflict of interest by the Montrose Economic Development Corporation, Montrose City Council approved under unusual circumstances Thursday night the semi-annual, $40,000 disbursement of economic development funds.

Mayor David White said that ultimately the disbursement will benefit the community. Councilor Noelle Hagan was the sole dissenting vote.

MONDAY, JANUARY 21 Carbon monoxide likely killed child, grandfather A silent killer is being blamed for the deaths of toddler Truett Simoens and his 72-year old grandfather, Julian Beamer on Saturday. The child's grandmother remains hospitalized; all three victims suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Civil Air Patrol conducts practice mission Saturday As service volunteers, members of the Civil Air Patrol know their presence is important and training essential.

Thirty-two CAP volunteers, including young cadets, joined the Montrose County Seriff's Posse for field training exercises. The drills prepared the group for one of its important roles - search and rescue.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22 Making Growth pay its own way Drafts of the city's comprehensive plan are available for comment. The draft includes updates regarding Montrose housing, transportation, infrastructure and more. The plan addresses future growth and the costs associated with expansion.

New schedule to ease burden on local court Local courts are trying a different approach to address burgeoning case dockets. Video advisements and the first appearance center will help ease the burden in the courtroom.

Video advisements will take place on Mondays at 8:30a.m. For the first appearance center, the DA and his deputies will divide up the cases and confer with the defendants in a newly created room upstairs in the justice center.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23 Group protests kennel Around 20 people gathered in the frigid air Tuesday morning to protest the continued operation of Olathe-based Colorow Kennels. Inspectors from the Colorado Department of Agriculture found Nita Smith, owner of Colorow Kennels, in violation of the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act last November.

Third carbon monoxide victim expected to survive Phyllis Beamer narrowly escaped dying in the tragic accident that claimed the life of her husband and grandson. Beamer, hospitalized in Colorado Springs, is expected to recover and could soon be released.

Residents warned of sex predator After some fits and starts, Montrose residents were formally notified of Nelson Lesparance's presence. Approximately 40 people showed up at the sheriff's office Tuesday night to learn about Lesparance, who is staying on Chipeta Road.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 24 Hospital researching ownership in surgical center A Montrose Memorial Hospital and Black Canyon Surgical Center task force will meet today to discuss possible collaboration between the two groups. MMH CEO Ken Platou said the hospital administration and board members have had discussions with the center about possible involvement in its ownership.

The surgical center is not affiliated with MMH. Some physicians practice at both the hospital and surgical center.

Caucuses: A place for grassroots gatherings The precinct caucuses Feb. 5 are more than an opportunity for local politicians to schmooze. They give affiliated residents a chance to share their presidential preferences and suggest changes tot he party's statewide platform.

Bonnie Koch, President of Montrose League of Women Voters, encourages people to get involved in the caucuses. "Caucuses are called grassroots gatherings because issues that start locally can get to the state level," stated Koch.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25 Recreation District expansion to be discussed publicly Monday A forum to discuss Montrose Recreation District's intentions for expansion is planned to include a diversity of opinions. A panel of speakers, each with unique perspectives will gather to discuss expansion and feasibility.

Staff has been working to find grants and explore funding possibilities. Tax increases to finance the expansion have twice been voted down in recent years.

New charges, prelim for shooting suspect Rafael Arellano, accused gunman in a 2006 drive-by shooting, is facing higher charges. Arrellano is accused of firing multiple shots into a car as it drove near the intersection of North Fourth and Cascade in June 2006.

Arrellano was originally charged with two counts of attempted first degree assault. The amended charges include attempted firstdegree murder.

Commissioners review 14 hospital board applicants.

Montrose County Commissioners are review 14 county residents' applications to fill two hospital board positions. They will announce the new members Feb. 4.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

Serra to run for DA District Attorney Myrl Serra is seeking election tot he office of District Attorney, after being appointed more than a year ago.

January 22 - City Hall employees began working in their new building located off of South First Street Monday morning. The City of Montrose received a $98,529 Save America Treasury Grant from the National Park Service to renovate the lobby area.

The city hopes to begin phase two of the renovation in 2009.

Year in Review 2008

4 January 4, 2009 SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 Midwife advised on contempt allegation The state is seeking punitive sanctions against Delta midwife Theanna Sparrow Davis.

Sparrow is already serving a work release sentence at Montrose County Jail. Sparrow is accused of violating court orders from 2000 and 2005, barring her from practicing midwifery.

Septic waste haulers cooperate to draft regulations Local septic waste haulers recently came together to benefit their industry and the region's environment and inhabitants.

Their primary objectives include educating people involved with their industry and the general public; establishing regulations for haulers and ensuring a permanent disposal location.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27 Obama wins South Carolina in racially charged primary Barack Obama routed Hillary Rodham Clinton in the racially charged South Carolina primary Saturday night, regaining campaign momentum in the prelude to a Feb. 5 coast-to-coast competition for more than 1,600 Democratic National Convention delegates.

Storm to pass through Montrose this weekend Another storm from the California coast will move into Montrose this weekend, bringing rain and snow the next few days, according to the National Weather Service.

MONDAY, JANUARY 28 From cow to cheese Rocking W Cheese to open soon. Webb Dairy owners are gearing up to open the doors of their new business and begin the exciting adventure into cheese production.

Starting fairly small, the generations-deep dairy farmers plan to open with different cheeses and milk.

They have hired Wisconsin resident Matt Henze as "Cheese Master" and hope to produce a variety of cheese, specialty curds, whipping cream, butter and more.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29 Sex plea nets 6-year sentence Alan Files admitted touching a girl on two separate occasions, but only by accident. District Judge Jeff Herron, however, had blunt words for him, "I just don't believe you."

Files' plea to attempted child abuse as a class-5 felony and unlawful sexual contact as a class-1 misdemeanor. Herron sentenced Files to a 6-year sentence, as well as 18 months, concurrent, on the misdemeanor charge.

Montrose e-waste event greater than 2007's Saturday's electronic waste recycling event at the Montrose city shop brought in 10 more pallets of computers, cell phones and gadgetry than last year's program keeping it out of the landfill.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30 Hotel quickly recovering from fire An early-evening fire sent Holiday Inn Express guests out of their rooms and kept fire crews busy for about three hours Monday.

According to the Montrose Fire Protection District, the fire was

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

February 1 - Montrose’s Matt Dickinson tangles with Herman Guiterrez.

accidental and broke out in the mechanical room of the pool area.

Sex offender draws 5-year sentence David Cooke, 18, was arrested in March 2007 on suspicion of having sex with a 13-year old girl and pleaded guilty to the attempted assault that October.

Despite Cooke's attorney's objections, District Judge Jeff Herron sentenced Cooke to 5-years.

Recreation district dialogue opens communication lines Efforts to expand the Montrose Recreation District led to a seven-person panel to discuss the pros and cons of expansion. The panel included voices of the district, the opposition, as well as other community agencies. The goal of the forum was to stimulate communication among varying perspectives.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31 JetAway: County manipulated standards JetAway Aviation filed a new Part 16 complaint last week, alleging Montrose County unreasonably denied its bid to become a fixed-base operator.

It also calls for an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration.

County, JCP consider settlement Jet Center Partners proposed a settlement agreement that could ease the county's legal bills, while also canceling a federal complaint that the county breached its contract.

JCP does business as Black Canyon Jet Center and services non-commercial air traffic at the airport. JCP proposed to withdraw its Part 16 complaint and rely on the county to address its allegations of discrimination concerning JetAway. No formal action was taken.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Indians pin down rival Tigers Grand Junction tried to pull a quick one on the Montrose High wrestling team on Thursday, but it turned out MHS head coach Jack Garrison had a few cards up his sleeve as well.

When all was said and done, MHS upset No. 4 Grand Junction 39-30.

Three to contend for District IV council seat Kathy Ellis’s announcement of candidacy Thursday brings the number of contenders to three for the Montrose City Council District IV seat.

Ellis, 52, states that her main reason for running is "to assure the continued quality of life in Montrose."

Ellis is married to Montrose County Commissioner Gary Ellis, which has some concerned that there may be a conflict of inter-

est. She reassures the community that they will "successfully and professionally complement one another in (there) positions."

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Hospital warns of possible scam Residents who receive phone calls concerning a hospital survey need to be cautions, Montrose Memorial Hospital Marketing Director Leann Tobin said.

MMH was alerted by a Montrose resident that someone called his home and claimed to be conducting a "hospital service survey", but then began pushing for detailed information.

Tobin says that the hospital is not currently conducting a survey.

an oral exam, she was finally able to take the oath of citizenship.

other things, the use of state funds to patrol federal areas.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Citizens call for MEDC investigation Citizens renewed their calls for an independent investigation of Montrose Economic Development Corporation, and this time they came armed with a formal complaint.

Resident David Laird called on commissioners to create an independent panel that could investigate MEDC and any conflicts of interest between Sandy Head, MEDC Executive Director and Head's husband, Al Head.

Sandy Head was not a member of MEDC when it made a loan to her husband, Al Head. Nor was she the Director at that time.

Farmers push for tax exemptions Farmers and others in agribusiness turned out in force Monday in hopes of gaining county support for sales tax exemptions for items such as machinery and pesticides.

State law mandates several tax exemptions, but the county has not included the optional state mandated exemptions. Any exemptions under county sales tax would require a new vote.

County inks settlement agreement with JCP County commissioners officially signed of on a settlement agreement with Jet Center Partners on Monday.

Under the agreement, JCP would withdraw its Part 16 complaint pending with the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as the state court litigation.

In return, the county agreed to share the costs of expert testimony.

Walsh seeks election to BOCC; touts rural experience Democrat Tim Walsh says rural areas need better representation, so he's making a run at the Montrose County Board of County Commissioners.

Walsh is seeking election to District 3, which encompasses the West End of Montrose County, including Paradox, his home of 12 years.

Truck explosion sends man to prison Timothy Holley, 28, will spend the next four years behind bars for using dynamite to damage a rival's vehicle last October.

Holley pleaded guilty to criminal mischief as a class-4 felony. Sentencing was immediate. Under his plea agreement he received four years.

Holley could still be subject to federal prosecution.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Will Congress Protect Roubideau and EscalanteDominguez?

Public land legislation awaits.

Senator Ken Salazaar is looking to the Montrose Board of County Commissioners for a thumbs up to introduce, and co-sponsor a bill with Senator Wayne Allard, that would establish a Bureau of Land Management EscalanteDominguez National Conservation Area covering 2120,662 acres of public land within 3 counties.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Massive layoffs at Russell Stover Approximately 150 local Russell Stover Candies employees will lose their jobs on or around April 1, according to the company's corporate office in Kansas City, Mo. Robinn Weber, corporate senior vice president of human resources said that the factory's second shift will be eliminated.

The layoff affects all levels from maintenance to packers, and even supervisors, he said.

Obama supporters rally in Montrose Local Barack Obama supporters are fired up - enough to stand at the corner of Main Street and Townsend Avenue in 20-degree weather and snowfall to show their support MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Sled dogs hustle despite weather Lynn Whipple and her team of dogs don't let blizzard conditions and a cancelled race deter their training.

Although races on the Grand Mesa were cancelled due to dangerous conditions, weather was perfect on the Uncompahgre Plateau.

Super Tuesday Local GOP taps Romney Super Tuesday brought a super turnout at the Montrose County Republican caucuses, where the majority of electors voting in a straw poll ultimately favored Mitt Romney for president.

Attendance at the caucus was two-and-a-half times what they had two years ago, according to Montrose County Republican Central Committee Chair, Mark Young.

Obama reigns supreme in Montrose County caucus The highest attended Montrose County Democratic caucus to date resulted in landslide support for presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Australian overcomes obstacles, becomes a U.S. citizen Christine Peak, 55, moved to Montrose from Australia in 1972; she became a U.S. citizen last Wednesday.

Though Peak's naturalization seemed absolutely daunting and impossible at times, following an application, finger printing, and

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Bill addresses concerns over off-road vehicle use Local residents sound off against measure that would set penalties for motorized-vehicle use in areas where it's prohibited.

Supporters of the bill seek to boost protection of public lands, but opponents question, among

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Public works manager awarded employee of the year by city Jerry Sieverson, public works manager, was recently named the city's 2007 employee of the year.

Sieverson has been employed with the city since 1979 and has seen it change a lot. Mary Watt, city manager, says that he has always been an asset and is a great choice.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8 High snowpack could lead to high waters High snowpack in the Gunnison Basin this winter will help ensure adequate irrigation for local agriculture, though high waters could burden local resources.

The Gunnison Basin's snow water equivalent is 151 percent of the average. "It's kind of refreshing to talk about it (this year's precipitation) versus drought," said Marc Catlin, manager of the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association.

Officers cleared of contempt; could return to work Contempt complaints against three Montrose County Sheriff's officers, who were accused of violating a court order, were dropped Friday at the recommendation of the special prosecutor.

The order concerned defendant George Christmas, who was ordered held on $25,000 cash or surety bond. The officers released Christmas on a $25,000 personal recognizance bond.

Special prosecutor Leigh Taylor recommended dismissal of the charges because after "looking at all the factors, someone just made a mistake."

Reaching new heights Students at Montrose High School climbed to new heights on Friday to raise money for its popular climbing program. The Climb-a-thon generated funds to improve and maintain the school's climbing wall and help sponsor the team's climbing/camping trip.

Conflict delays ruling on Lopez motion Judge Jeff Herron reversed his own ruling regarding whether or not a witness' pre-sentence report could be reviewed for the purposes of Lionel Lopez's defense. Lopez is suspected in the 2003 shooting death of Irene Trujillo.

Public defender, Harvey Palefsky sought a judge's determination whether there was information in the report that could damage the witness's reputation.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

February 4 - Lynn Whipple, vice president of the Rocky Mountain Sled Dog Club, maneuvers a turn with her four-dog team on trails outside her home.

Safe return: Sheriff buys tracking devices Project Lifesaver reunites caregivers with at-risk persons.

Caregivers in Montrose County received a helping hand in the form of a grant. The $10,000 grant from the Colorado Department of Criminal Justice helped pay for implementing the Project Lifesaver program through the Montrose County Sheriff's Office.

Project Lifesaver International uses transmitter and receiver devices to track at-risk individuals who are prone to wandering away from safe environments.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Montrose races to SWL championship Montrose placed first or second in eight of the meet’s 12 events, and won all three relay races to take home the SWL championship.

‘We’ve had a lot of years of finishing second, but this team just had the right mix and chemistry to give themselves an opportunity to win a championship,’ said Silas Almgren MHS head coach.

Indians claim first SWL title in 4 years It certainly wasn’t easy, but when it came down to the final two

Year in Review 2008 Olathe Town Hall was near capacity as local and county leaders converged with farmers to discuss the fate of the Olathe farm dormitory and sweet corn.

The leaders discussed the utilization of the dormitory for seasonal workers, who currently can't use the facility because of the Housing Act of 1949, and a possible resolution in support of federal action to allow workers on visas to live there.

matches of the dual, Montrose was able to hold off Durango 43-27 on Saturday and capture their first Southwestern League championship since the 200304 season.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Fundraiser aids college scholarship program The Montrose-Olathe Benito Juarez Scholarship Committee has created the Benito Juarez Scholarship for local Hispanic high school students. Members of the community gathered at La Cabaña at Sicily's to raise money for the scholarship fund. With $1,500 in their fund, they are looking toward the future.

Mission trip to Ecuador a journey to remember The First Church of the Nazarene in Montrose sent seven members to be a part of the denomination's Work and Witness mission group. For many it was their first time out of the country as the traveled to Ecuador.

It was a learning experience for the volunteers, as well as those they went to help. They met Felix Vargas, once hit-man, now church evangelist. Though meeting Vargas was an exciting adventure, their main mission was to build a church.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Arson suspect pleads to other counts A man once accused of arson now faces up to eight years in prison for criminal mischief and menacing. Dewayne Sims was arrested late last May after his exgirlfriend's rented home burned down, destroying all her possessions. A cat and five kittens also died in the blaze. According to police reports, Sims also doused the woman with gasoline, but she managed to get away.

Man who shot himself during holdup receives 9 years Nicholas Hendricks, 19, said he was using drugs and alcohol May 30, 2007, when he robbed the Bradley fueling station on South Townsend at gunpoint and accidentally shot himself. Hendricks was sentenced to nine years and was also recommended for prison boot camp program.

Truck collides with semi Alfred Magers, 42, was hospitalized after his pickup truck, traveling south on Highway 50, crashed into a roll-off truss trailer.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Teacher accused of abuse A Johnson Elementary special education teacher, Desiree Grover, was placed on administrative leave pending a police investigation into possible child abuse.

Clerk hopes to drop county from election watch list Montrose County Clerk Fran Tipton Long, with the support of the Montrose County Board of Commissioners, petitioned Colorado Secretary of State Mike Coffman for early removal from the state Election Watch List. It was not known when a decision might be made.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Mystery body found in morgue freezer Montrose Memorial Hospital's pathology department found the body of an unidentified man in its storage freezer and the Ouray Sheriff hopes to find answers concerning his identity and the circumstances of his death. The unidentified man was originally found in Ouray County in 1987.

County disputes antitrust complaint JetAway Aviation's antitrust suit is "groundless and frivolous," Montrose County said in a response filed with the court. The county, through its legal counsel, unequivocally denied the bulk of the aviation company's claims and sought the complaint's dismissal.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

February 16 - Ouray resident Lynn Olin uses a loader to pile new snow on top of old snow after the town received about a foot Thursday night. Ouray faces many challenges in snow removal since space is limited in the town.

can increase resources for the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

CBI's laboratory has had staffing and caseload issues, which Ron Kublin, the victim's brother, believed led to "unacceptable" turnaround time on evidence collected in the 2006 slaying. Steven Kublin, 50, was found near the Montrose County landfill in November 2006, He had been burned and the manner of death was ruled a homicide.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Lady Indians finish ninth at state The Montrose High swimming team didn’t know what to expect heading into the state championships this weekend, but the Lady Indians are definitely happy with the result.

Montrose recorded eight top-15 finishes on Day 2 of the state meet, helping them to a ninthplace finish overall with 94 team points.

Pirates win fifth straight league title Behind 13 state qualifiers and five regional champs the Olathe High wrestling team captured its fifth consecutive Class 3A Western Regional team title.

MHS wrestling send eight to state The Montrose High wrestling team fell just short of winning a regional championship, but the Indians were able to send eight wrestlers to the state tournament in the second day of the Class 4A regional tournament.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Senior Center the place to be What started with cookies and bingo 35 years ago is now a bustling hub for social gatherings, activities, trips and lunch.

The Montrose Senior Center's partnerships and the hard work of volunteers over the years have made it the place to be.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Up in flames Fire caused about $16,000 in damage to Dennis Bourgois' 1978 GMC Eleganza II motor home, according to the Montrose Fire Protection District. The cause of the fire was undetermined. Firefighters arrived on scene at 11:52 a.m. and had the fire under control by noon.

3A State Wrestling Championships on Thursday, Olathe head coach Harvey Starbuck saw a mixed bag of wrestling.

The Pirates had six of their 13 wrestlers advance to the second round, but they also had some unexpected losses.

Man accused of sexual coercion Seven felony charges were filed against Dean Hubbard, 51, whom investigators allege provided alcohol to underage girls, showed them sexually explicit films and separately coerced one of them to expose herself.

Extradition pending for sex assault suspect A former Hotchkiss resident is in custody on sexual assault charges after he was reportedly deported from Mexico. Wilfred L. Carignan, 69, had been wanted since September 2003 on Delta County charges for sex assault on a child-victim 14-years and younger.

City Council discusses need for awareness of graffiti code Montrose City Councilors expressed concern at Thursday's meeting that private property owners may not be aware of their responsibility to clean up graffiti.

City attorney Russ Duree said city code doesn't name a specific time limit for graffiti removal, but requires that it be taken care of in a "reasonable amount of time."

Letters had been sent to property owners who've been vandalized to inform them of their responsibility.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Guarding against crime Residents of a local subdivision are working to reduce crime in a way that focuses on individual homes — the crime-free lifestyles program. Fox Meadows is the first neighborhood in Montrose to begin implementing techniques developed by the International Crime Free Association to reduce the potential for residential crimes such as burglary and vandalism.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Pirates in 10th place overall as team The Olathe High Pirates run in the championship side of the Class 3A state wrestling tournament came to a bitter end Friday night as all were knocked down to the consolation bracket. As a team the Pirates were in 10th place.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24 OHS’s Rivera overcomes injuries, takes 4th at state Olathe High’s Jesse Rivera overcame two long injury prone years to get his place among the top wrestlers in the state. Rivera, who suffered a broken leg last year and a separated shoulder earlier this year, proudly accepted his fourth place trophy at 171 pounds.

Second Dem announces commission bid Montrose native Dick Williams announced his bid for the District 3 county commission seat and said he would work to make county government more efficient if he is elected.

No more sweet corn?

The supply of nationally distributed Olathe sweet corn could fall this year as farmers confront bureaucratic blockages of their labor force. One such blockage is the 72-bed Olathe farm dormitory, which can't currently house seasonal farm workers on H2-B visas because of the federal Housing Act of 1949. The dorm remains mostly empty as farmers are forced to find other ways to house their workers. The sweet corn industry brings about $11 million to the Uncompahgre Valley each year.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Salazar discusses immigration, national politics with locals Sen. Ken Salazar stopped in Olathe and Delta Tuesday, discussing local concerns at DeltaMontrose Technical College, the immigration issue, national politics and he toured the Rocking W Cheese plant in Olathe.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Haugsness drops out of county race Montrose County Commission District 3 Republican candidate Jim Haugsness announced he is withdrawing from the race.

Haugsness announced his intention to run back in December of 2007.

MMH board members announced Montrose County Commissioners announced the appointment of Dianna Jagiello and Debi Harmon to the Montrose Memorial Hospital Board of trustees.

Iron Dog tests racers stamina Montrose's Rod Downey, Terry Hawkins, Joey Hamilton and Charles Distel drove 4,000 miles in six days to compete in the 25th annual Teroso Iron Dog Challenge, a 1,971-mile snowmobile race that took the competitors through some of the most brutal terrain Alaska has to offer.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Judge: Recall committee violated campaign laws The committee to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson must pay nearly $10,000 in fines and comply with statutory requirements to file contribution and expenditure reports. Denver Administrative Law Judge Michelle Norcross found that recall petitioner Al Head was in violation of the Fair Campaign Practices Act.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Enterprise Center to provide affordable office space Region 10 announced Wednesday it is taking steps to open and Enterprise Center that would provide assistance to non-profits and emerging new businesses.

Region 10's facility, located at 300 N. Cascade Ave. in Montrose, will be remodeled over the next few months to provide office space for up to 50 employees.

Coroner explains morgue body Montrose County coroner Dr. Thomas Canfield said the body of an unidentified man in his morgue was being kept as a courtesy to Ouray County since 1987, and that he knew the body was there.

The Ouray John Doe came into the Montrose morgue 20 years ago after having been found at a small campsite near the Golden Crystal mining claim outside Ouray.

School district never used recalled beef Assured that it received no products named in the nation's largest beef recall in history, Montrose County School District Re-1J continued with regular meal operations. Last week, Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Co. out of Chino, Calif., voluntarily recalled about 143 million pounds of raw and frozen beef products.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Break in murder case hinges on lab The family of murder victim Steven Kublin is hopeful the state

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Six Pirates survive opening round After the first round of the Class

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Indians hold of Mean Moose For one half, it looked like Montrose was going to run away with a blowout win. The other half looked as if it were going to let the game slip through their fingers.

Though they finished the game with a big win (73-66), the road to a state title gets even harder.

The Indians will travel to take on No.1-seeded Widefield (Colorado Springs).

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Sweet corn 'nightmare'

Olathe board supports dorm issue The Olathe Board of Trustees approved a resolution supporting federal action to allow foreign workers on visas to stay at the Olathe farm dormitory. The town's vote joins more than 300 resolutions and letters of support headed for U.S. Senators Ken Salazar and Wayne Allard.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 29 Schools looking to implement Safe-2-Tell program Area schools are looking at implementing Safe-2-Tell, a program based on the Colorado Prevention Initiative for School Safety, and provide a safe, anonymous way to report information about a crime, potential dangerous situations or other concerns.

SATURDAY, MARCH 1 Staying Alive Just call the Lady Pirates the comeback queens as they beat the Hotchkiss Lady Bulldogs 4746 in the semifinals of the Class 3A District 2 playoff game. Next up for the Lady Pirates is the topseeded and No. 4-ranked Basalt Lady Longhorns.

State OK's county voting equipment - for now County elections will move forward as planned, after state officials approved the count's voting equipment Thursday. The optical scanner was re-certified with conditions.

Uncompahgre Plateau has cloud seeding potential A method for increasing precipitation on Grand Mesa and at ski resorts could be brought to the Uncompahgre with local support.

Cloud seeding uses the process of burning silver powder over open flame to increase precipitation up to 10 percent.

SUNDAY, MARCH 2 Daily Press honored by Associated Press at awards banquet The Montrose Daily Press received 14 awards from the Colorado Associated Press during its annual awards. The Daily Press received first place for editorial writing and investigative reporting; second place for general excellence, online breaking news and photo illustration; and Honor-

January 4, 2009 5 able mention in an additional eight categories.

Where are they coming from?

Out-of-state migrants to Montrose County have been places.

Migration to Montrose comes from large cities, mostly from somewhere out West, proving that small towns and rural areas such as Montrose attract those looking for the good life.

MONDAY, MARCH 3 Practicing what you teach Russell Evans, a 27-year old Spanish teacher at Montrose High School, dedicates his life to assisting Hispanic youth to overcome barriers and focus on achieving great things. Evans, along with other teachers at Montrose High, will give their students first hand experience at learning like half of the world by teaching outside Thursday, rain or shine, in the dirt.

Spring fever brings snow flurries Western Slope residents wake up to a blanket of snow on the ground Sunday. A warm week gave a false feeling of spring, but the sunshine is expected to return today.

TUESDAY, MARCH 4 Potential leaders face off in the District IV race Montrose City Council District IV candidates shared their views, plans and ideas with a live online audience and the Daily Press from our studio Monday night.

Kathy Ellis, Howard Beardsley, and Susan Welk-Valdez discussed their values, the city's comprehensive plan and facets of their personal lives.

Smashing spree targets cars At least six instances of vehicle vandalism were reported, totaling an amount of damage that is likely to bring charges at the felony level.

Fuel mix-up at downtown City Market Montrose's downtown City Market pumps were only allowing customers to purchase unleaded gas Monday due to a possible mix of diesel in the premium unleaded fuel. The diesel may have been transferred into the premium unleaded tank during Monday morning's transfer.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5 Dog cruelty case still drawing ire Several animal-rights activists awaited the arrival of dog breeder Nita Smith at court today. Smith was charged locally last December for neglect to an animal in her care.

Antitrust defense motion denied in JetAway case Black Canyon Jet Center will not be dismissed from the antitrust suit filed by JetAway last December. The suit alleged a conspiracy between the county and Black Canyon to monopolize FBO activity.

THURSDAY, MARCH 6 At-large city council candidates square off The three Montrose City Council candidates for the at-large seat met in the Daily Press studio to discuss issues and ideas pertinent to the April 1st election. Incumbent Carlos Guara and challengers Steve Savoy and Erica Lewis Kennedy participated in a live broadcast that ended in some heated discussion over alleged foul play and mud slinging.

FRIDAY, MARCH 7 Elderly man killed in crash John Bauer, 78, was killed in a crash on Colorado Highway 65.

Bauer apparently strayed out of the northbound lane and off the road before over correcting and rolling causing him to be ejected.

District III shoo-in candidate shares thoughts on city Gail Marvel, the unopposed candidate for District III of the Montrose City Council shared her thoughts on the city in the Daily Press studio. Marvel would like to focus on better communication between the city and residents, as well as taking a look at the

contracts the city has with other organizations and whether those are being fulfilled on both ends.

SATURDAY, MARCH 8 ICE op blindsides local store Surprise immigration visit to the Carneceria Payares leads to 3 arrests; one employee and two customers. Immigration and Customs Enforcement does not conduct random sweeps, this was a targeted investigation.

Council approves comprehensive plan The Montrose City Council approved unanimously the city's comprehensive plan. Many public hearings, reviews and revisions paid off as the council discussed the importance of keeping the document current in the future and then voted to approve the plan.

SUNDAY, MARCH 9 Big plans for a little church The nearly century old German Lutheran church that once sat at the corner of South Park and Sixth Street was moved to a preservation site just east of Montrose. The historic structure needs volunteers, materials and 'TLC' to prepare for early summer opening, but no one could fathom the treasures found in restoring our history through old structures. Richard Fike, museum executive director, started the museum which now has several structures on a nearly five-acre site.

MONDAY, MARCH 10 Montrose Arts Council purchases two PAX sculptures The Montrose Arts Council purchased two new sculptures on behalf of the city from those on loan through the Montrose Public Art eXperience (PAX). The pieces will remain in their current location through the year, after which officials will discus a permanent location.

Residents get tested The Montrose Pavilion was bustling early Saturday as hundreds of area residents obtained a variety of information from health care professionals during Montrose Memorial Hospital's annual health fair.

BLM travel maps now open to public review Proposed changes to what areas are open to motor vehicle use on land overseen by the Bureau of Land Management are available for public review. The BLM is proposing to amend the Uncompahgre Basin and San Juan/San Miguel Resource Management Plan in order to change designations from "open" to "limited to existing" travel for motorized use within the entire field office.

TUESDAY, MARCH 11 In need of a niche Downtown areas are viewed as the heart of a community. Over the years, Montrose's downtown has seen the natural progression of businesses coming and going.

"Downtown needs to be unique retail," property owner Ralph Walchle said.

Roads, finances among Olathe candidates' priorities Roads and budget concerns are among top priorities of those competing for seats on the Olathe Board of Trustees. Nearly all nine candidates mentioned paving roads as their top concern.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12 Queens of the Ice Two Montrose sisters help lead Telluride girls' hockey team to state. Samantha and Emily Kenney, sisters, teammates and MHS students helped the Telluride Lizard Heads U-19 team sweep through the state tournament to win the championship last weekend. Samantha scored two of the three goals for the winning game.

Task force naps deported felon Salomon Renteria-Valdez, 61, an illegal immigrant with multiple convictions is off the streets, after local drug task force agents nabbed him in a traffic stop.

City council candidates get chance to sound off at debate Candidates for the three Montrose City Council seats had a chance to sit behind the table Tuesday at a forum in the council chambers. It was a full house as the candidates shared their thoughts and answered questions presented by the audience members.

THURSDAY, MARCH 13 Dismissal of suit against clerk ends Patterson recall efforts After months of accusations, counter-accusations and legal action from both sides, the bid to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson ended. The court ordered dismissal of the suit against Montrose County Clerk and Recorder Fran Tipton Long effectively ends the attempt to recall Patterson.

BARTON GLASSER / DAILY PRESS

February 25 - Kira Lenons, front, and Sarah Hall, both 13, take a ride down the hill during the Montrose Rotary Club's Winter Carnival at Cerro Summit Saturday

Local hunters donate to food bank Local hunters are donating their

Year in Review 2008

6 January 4, 2009

Better by the lap Led by senior Dan Schwab and junior Peter Thomas, the Montrose boys’ swimming team placed second behind Grand Junction and ahead of Delta at the Grand Junction Invitational on Thursday.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

March 17 - A large group of horses run and play in a field off of Rio Grande Avenue Saturday afternoon.

recreational product to fulfill a need. In the past year, members of Western Colorado Chapter of Safari Club International donated about 2,500 pounds of wild game to Sharing Ministries food bank.

FRIDAY, MARCH 14 Council ballots in the mail Registered voters can expect to begin receiving ballots for the Montrose City Council election today.

Detentions officer under fire again Sisinio Ruis Diaz, a Montrose County Sheriff's detention officer who pleaded guilty to official misconduct in 2006, was arrested at work on a Montrose Police Department warrant that alleged domestic violence and harassment.

Sheriff, county address patrol pay scale Raises given to Montrose County Sheriff's Office road deputies were simply adjustments to keep the county competitive with others in the state. There is a steady demand for patrol officers and most agencies and salaries were rising statewide, according to Sheriff Rick Dunlap.

BLM's Roan Plateau plan moves forward State lawmakers criticize the plan to move forward with oil and gas drilling on the Roan Plateau for lack of protection. Governor Bill Ritter suggested expanding area protections and phasing energy leasing, neither item was addressed by the U.S. Department of the Interior and Bureau of Land Management.

Speed kills The game plan was fairly simple, but it worked like a charm on Thursday.

Using a spread out offense that exploited Montrose’s speed, the Lady Indians breezed past Delta 9-1 to improve to 2-0 on the season.

SATURDAY, MARCH 15 Indians, Pirates get off to strong start Baseball was in full swing Friday during the first day of the Lloyd McMillan Memorial Baseball Tournament despite late winter flurries.

Montrose and Olathe high schools hosted five teams. Both teams opened the tournament red-hot with winning games.

Guara faces possible campaign violation Montrose Mayor Pro-Tem Carlos Guara has until Tuesday to correct an alleged campaign violation. Guara failed to file a report of campaign contributions and expenditures by March 11, in accordance with state rules.

According to Guara, his treasurer Mark Crossley handles the campaigns financial status. Crossley intends to file the reports Monday, stating that he "just forgot."

Man who torched officers' vehicles enters plea Ronnie Washington must complete six years of intensive supervised probation or face prison on his pleas to several felony charges stemming from the torching of an officer's vehicle among other charges. Washington, once declared mentally incompetent, entered a guilty plea to four charges.

SUNDAY, MARCH 16 Montrose 'cold cases' on CBI database Montrose's missing may be gone, but they are far from forgotten.

Legislation passed in 2007 aimed to tip the balance in investigators' favor by requiring law enforcement agencies to supply information on homicides and missing persons dating from 1970 or later when the case has gone without resolution for more than three years.

There are 2,001 missing persons in Colorado. Of these, 11 originated in Montrose County.

MONDAY, MARCH 17 Community celebrates 'Pennies for Peace' in a weekend walk Approximately 50 participants turned out to take a three mile peace walk from Baldridge Park tot he Peace Pole at the Ute Indian Museum. Pennies for Peace gives students the opportunity to learn about cultures outside American and to raise funds to build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Ute Museum hosts 'The Longest Walk 2' The Longest Walk 2 has gath-

ered people from around the country to head to Washington D.C. Along the way, their mission is to spread education and awareness about the concerns of the nation's Native Americans.

They are walking to protect the country's sacred sites, promote positive change and clean up Mother Earth.

TUESDAY, MARCH 18 Natural gas rate increase likely to be suspended A SourceGas proposal to increase rates effective April 4 will likely be suspended up to seven months. The proposed changes would affect the typical residential customer with monthly rate increase of 19.5 percent. The Colorado Public Utilities Commission will hear the request in March or April.

Fiske fighting 22-year sentence Jason Fiske wants the Colorado Court of Appeals to hear oral arguments concerning his sentence in the 2005 death of Kevin Hale.

Fiske contends that his 22-year sentence should be reversed, or at a minimum, reduced.

1 held after bowling alley incident involving brass knuckles First degree assault charges are possible in a reported attack that sent a 20-year old man to the hospital. Mark Watson, 21, allegedly attacked another man with brass knuckles in the parking lot.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19 'One man crime spree' arrested José Alberto Burmudez-Robles was nabbed by drug task force agents and other authorities last week. Bermudez-Roblez was arrested in a stolen car at a Delta car wash after a brief struggle.

Law enforcement agents had been tailing him because of alleged methamphetamine distribution in the Delta and Grand Junction areas.

New Zealanders pick up work at local ranch Steve Cox, 27, may be a New Zealander by birth, but he works all around the world as a shearer.

Cox and other guest workers from New Zealand sheared about 1,500 head of sheep on Tuesday.

Following work in the United States, they will shear their way through Great Britain and Australia before heading home in November.

Highway 50 Rivalry In most cases, when a Class 4A team beats a 3A team at home by six runs, it’s nothing to stand up and shout about.

When the teams are rivals, Montrose and Olathe, though, it’s an entirely different story. The Indians proved victorious in an 8-2 win over the Pirates.

THURSDAY, MARCH 20 Olathe candidates discuss town issues Candidates for the Olathe Board of Trustees met Wednesday for a forum at the American Legion.

Contenders presented views on such issues as law enforcement, attorneys' fees, and the town's master plan.

Court denies JetAway motion to continue District Judge James Schum denied JetAway Aviation's motion to continue the trial date. Schum stated, "The case is over two years old. We're way behind. The reasons for continuance are just not persuasive. The argument is being made for purposes of delay only."

SUNDAY, MARCH 23 Montrose real estate market is steady, industry people say Unlike other struggling housing markets in the West, Montrose is relatively stable according to Hack McKelvy of Beall Appraisals.

County will text emergency notifications Emergency management officials invite residents to sign up for mobile alerts through Montrose County's wireless emergency notification system. Similar to reverse 911, the WEN system sends text messages to alert subscribers. Alerts range from evacuation orders to road closures and will provide a brief outline of the particular emergency.

FRIDAY, MARCH 28 Community concerned about closing of business The closing of Nucla's only grocery store, Nucla Mercantile, has left residents and city officials wondering what problems it might cause the small isolated West End town. The store's closing will not only affect those looking for groceries, but also the town's budget as it was a major source of tax revenue.

SATURDAY, MARCH 29 Olathans encouraged to vote Candidates for the Olathe Board of Trustees election Tuesday encourage the town's 583 registered voters to come out and vote. They stressed the importance that the community participates in selecting new leadership.

SUNDAY, MARCH 30 Foreclosures increase, affect local market Foreclosures have increased in Montrose County. The total number of sales is down. Home values have also decreased creating a large buyers' market.

Montrose, which was isolated from state and national trends for some time, is finally feeling the ripple affect of a national problem as foreclosures help create a falling housing market.

FRIDAY, APRIL 4 City to offer curbside recycling

by Spring 2009 The city announced plans to implement a curbside recycling program by spring 2009. The program will be able to be offered without changing current sanitation rates.

VCB announces $66k for air organization The Montrose Visitors and Convention Bureau has committed $66k to the Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization's summer flight services. The air organization uses these contributions as an incentive to airlines to guarantee they will sell seats on flights connecting with Montrose Regional Airport.

SATURDAY, APRIL 5 Water board representative chosen Montrose and Olathe agreed Rachel Kullman will represent them on the Gunnison Basin Roundtable. Kullman is a local water resource consulting engineer. She will help determine the long-term vision of water use in the Gunnison Basin.

Bond for proposed uranium mill subject of debate Although the Piñon Ridge uranium mill is dozens of approvals

MONDAY, MARCH 24 Several hundred gather for service, egg hunt Several hundred people congregated in remembrance of Jesus' rising during the annual "Easter Sonrise" service in Montrose.

Christians from all walks of life gathered at 6:30am outside the Montrose Pavilion for the service.

BARTON GLASSER / DAILY PRESS

TUESDAY, MARCH 25 Probation, jail ordered in knife attack An assault case wrapped up Monday with Francisco CadenaVentura's Alford pleas to felony menacing and third-degree assault in June's slashing case. Cadena-Ventura was identified by José Gonzalez as his attacker.

New uranium mill in county slated for 2010 Plans for a new uranium bill on the Western Slope will be introduced to the area through two public open houses. The Piñon Ridge Mill will be the first uranium mill constructed in the United States in more than 25 years.

Winter's end irritates allergy sufferers Pollens of juniper, elm, cedar and male cottonwood trees are getting into the Western Slope air making it miserable for allergy sufferers. High moisture is resulting in healthy trees and grasses and that equals lots of pollen.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26 Local veterans welcome disabled soldiers to Colorado Military men and women stood proudly at the Montrose Regional Airport Tuesday, knuckles white as they held the American flag.

As fellow soldiers walked through the terminal, they cheered and gave thanks, providing them with the welcome many past service members never received.

Fire near Olathe A brushfire about 2.5 miles south of downtown Olathe burned an estimated 20 to 30 acres. Two fire departments and a crop dusting business cooperated to control the flames on the windy scene.

April 4 - Montrose firefighters extinguish a fire on Sunset Mesa Wednesday night.

No one was injured in the blaze but $12,000 in property and contents damage are estimated. The cause of the fire is unknown.

Hagan: Send me to Denver Montrose City Councilor Noelle Hagan is running as the Democratic candidate for House District 58 against Republican candidate, Scott Tipton. Hagan made no promises in her congressional-run pitch to Delta County residents. Instead, she focused on creating relationships and the issues important to her: water, energy, and agricultural issues.

MONDAY, MARCH 31 One man's heritage on paper John Watson, 88, has published a short book "Life Sketches" to tell those stories and preserve his heritage. Watson is an accomplished oil painter who captures Colorado's rich history in his paintings.

TUESDAY, APRIL 1 Travis Tritt to headline Olathe corn festival Country musician Travis Tritt will perform at the 17th annual Olathe Sweet Corn Festival on Aug. 2. The David Starr Band from Paonia is scheduled to open the evening concert.

Teacher accused of child abuse Brian Havel, a 22-year old Delta High School teacher, was issued a summons alleging child abuse.

Allegations include allowing other students to hit a 15-year old boy as a form of discipline for the boys' tardiness to class.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2 The vote is in!

Kathy Ellis, Erica Lewis Kennedy, and Gail Marvel were elected to Montrose City Council according to unofficial results. The official results will be announced within

away from getting the green light, a bond the state would require is the topic of debate.

The financial surety bond would make money available to the state for decommissioning operations, including waste clean-up.

Once issued, the surety would be evaluated annually and modified as needed.

SATURDAY, MARCH 22 Rumors of threats close school Ridgway High School was closed Friday as a precaution, after rumors of threats reached the ears of administration. Though there was no confirmed threat, to err on the side of caution was the route Superintendent Douglas Bissonette took.

DMEA proposal to help more afford geothermal systems A proposal to make high-efficiency, geothermal heating and cooling systems affordable to more residents, may be approved at the next DMEA board meeting April 22.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9 Murder plea nets 10 years Saying he sinned against God, David Celestino-Sostenes pleaded guilty to stabbing his roommate, Fermin Flores-Gonzales, to death last year. CelstinoSostenes, who said he was in the country illegally, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for second degree murder.

EMDI defendant enters plea Once indicted on multiple felonies related to the troubled Elizabeth Mining and Development Inc., Wayne Ratner settled the Colorado Attorney General's case against him with an Alford plea to a single securities charge.

THURSDAY, APRIL 10 Pulverized: Rockslides delay opening of East Portal Road Ongoing landslides that sent a 3,375-ton boulder smashing down onto East Portal Road have closed it indefinitely. The boulder tore a hole in the road 6- to 8-feet deep and about 50 feet wide.

East Portal Road, beginning at the junction with Colo. Highway 347, provides access to the Gunnison River.

FBO: Pilots duped by JetAway Black Canyon Jet Center, the fixed based operator at Montrose Regional Airport, alleged in a court filing that its competitor, JetAway Aviation, was luring pilots by telling them it sells fuels when it does not, despite being previously held in contempt for advertising fuel sales in violation of a court order. JetAway's CEO Stephen Stuhmer denied the claims.

SUNDAY, APRIL 6 Few options, time running out for Olathe farm dorm The only viable option for preventing the Olathe farm dorm's closure, may be a legal loophole, Sen. Wayne Allard said. In late March, the Montrose County Housing Authority made a motion to close the dormitory by June 1 unless foreign workers on visas are allowed to stay there.

Russell Stover expansion postponed Russell Stover Candies' plans to expand storage space, potentially at the Montrose plant, were postponed because of recent rises in construction costs. In late 2007, Montrose city and county cooperated to offer financial incentives for the company to expand its local plant.

City Council decides fate of Jacal site Montrose City Council approved the Park Board's recommendation that the wall on the Kallstrom Jacal Farmstead site be given to the local historical society. Four interpretive signs will be placed on the property, along with a sprinkler system and landscaping project of $63,200.

FRIDAY, APRIL 11 March busiest in history for fire district March is usually a busy month for the Montrose Fire Protection District, but this March was an exception: it was the busiest ever.

The fire district responded to 292 calls for service, breaking the previous high set in July 2007 of 270 calls.

MONDAY, APRIL 7 125th Series: A rich history Chief Ouray, Chipeta had leading roles in the early days of this area as for hundred of years, this valley was the home of the nomadic Ute Indians. Note: This was the first of a 17-part series examining 125 years in Montrose County.

Winter weather leads to collision A driver and two passengers were taken to Montrose Memorial Hospital after their 1996 Chevy pickup collided with a 2003 Honda Pilot on U.S. Highway 550.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8 Carbon monoxide bill stirs controversy Saying a bill that would require

A post office in Party Town Local U.S. Postal Service customers have an alternative to the busy downtown Montrose office, as Party Town in Oxbow Crossing installed a contract postal unit.

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 1 held in robbery attempt An ordinary night ended in terror for a Phillips 66 station attendant and her customer, whom police say were menaced at knifepoint late Thursday. Montrose police officers quickly located and arrested the suspect, identified as Mark Dodge Moore, 47.

Brown in running for commission Roger Brown says he will promote change if elected to the District 3 county commission seat. Brown feels it is important for the county to encourage public participation, eliminate wasteful spending and spur the local economy.

FRIDAY, MARCH 21 County preps for possible spring floods Montrose County might not find itself high and dry this spring - officials are warning the public of possible flooding due to increased snowpack. Snowpack is at 123 percent snow-water equivalent in some areas.

"From this point, it all just depends of the weather - if we get sustained runoff, or if happens really quickly," said Scott King, well commissioner for the Montrose office of the Division of Water Resources.

Commissioners deny After School Program funding The Montrose County Commissioners denied funding for the Montrose Elementary After School Program, which is facing a $25,000-plus shortfall. Commissioners said there were no general funds available to support it. The program serves an average of 532 students a week from area schools.

Hidden Trauma Former Miss America, Marilyn Van Derbur Atler, spotlighted the scourge of child sex abuse when she spoke about her own personal experience to a local audience at the Montrose Pavilion.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

March 26 - Nicolette Leigon, a Master at Arms in the U.S. Navy, shakes the hand of a Patriot Guard Rider as she is escorted through the Montrose Regional Airport Tuesday morning.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27 Olathe farm dorm on the verge of closure The 72-bed Olathe farm dormitory will close June 1 unless foreign workers on visas are allowed to use it. Despite the efforts of local officials and sweet corn farmers, workers on agriculture visas are not allowed to use the residence due to state legislature that says the tenants must be U.S. Citizens or "persons legally admitted for permanent residence."

a week. The three women will share the table with councilors José Abeyta and Ed Ulibarri.

THURSDAY, APRIL 3 PUC: Gas rate increase suspended Colorado's SourceGas customers may be pleased to learn their rates will not be increased April 4, pending hearing and investigations by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.

carbon monoxide detectors in homes, smacked of excessive government, Commissioner Allan Belt voted against supporting it. Still the county's resolution supporting Senate Bill 187 went through Monday after Commissioner Bill Patterson seconded a motion brought by Commissioner Gary Ellis. Ellis referred to two Olathe deaths in January in his support of the bill.

SUNDAY, APRIL 13 High waters, registration enforcement on the horizon The 575 miles of canals and laterals in the Uncompahgre Project area prepare to serve more than 76,000 acres after generous winter storms. The Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association also has to deal with residents using illegal pumps to extract water, and registration enforcement has been discussed to help curb the problem.

MONDAY, APRIL 14 125th Series: Cantonment on the Uncompahgre Following a Ute Indian uprising in 1879, a treaty was agreed upon for the removal of the White River and Uncompahgre Utes to a reservation in Utah. In order to

Year in Review 2008

January 4, 2009 7

to head. His campaign as an independent kicked off April 18.

CDOT slim on funds Montrose County Commissioners received the tough news that the state transportation budget is stagnant. Weldon Allen, Region 3 transportation director for the Colorado Department of Transportation, said that the transportation project funds hadn't been growing, while both road use and construction have. Allen suggested increasing motor fuel tax to increase funds.

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April 3 - Sprinklers create rainbows over 1,700 square feet of freshly-laid sod in Cerise Park Wednesday afternoon.

protect citizens, to ensure the treaty and to prevent squatters from riling the Indians, Colonel MacKenzie and his troops were sent to patrol the area and on July 21, 1890, a temporary supply camp, Cantonment on the Uncompahgre, was established eight miles south of the present site of Montrose. Note: Part two of 17-part series.

TUESDAY, APRIL 15 Boy dies in septic tank Steven F. Flores-Avilla, 2, died tragically after falling to a septic tank while attending a family function. Upon realizing the boy was missing, adults looked for nearly an hour before finding him in the septic tank.

Wages that trail behind escalating home values are causing unbalanced growth and affecting the workforce for the county. Despite its own housing issues, Montrose County offers a lower cost of living that will likely attract potential employees from it neighboring county.

Documentary to help farmers learn U.S. technology Kyrgystan journalists visited the Cottonwood Cellars winery in Olathe on Wednesday to film segments on a documentary to be broadcasted countrywide.

Dastan TV Company journalist, Aigul Batirova, said that farmers need information on new technology, ideas and methods. Olathe is part of a two-week tour including Washington D.C., Austin, Texas and other Colorado areas.

SUNDAY, APRIL 20 Made in Olathe Local orchard grapples with tough issues to deliver nutrition.

Mattics Orchards struggles with what to do about visas for workers. Last year, they struggled with eight workers, as competing with businesses like J.C. Penney's is difficult. On the other hand, brining in workers from outside the United States on agriculture visas is difficult when finances are difficult.

FRIDAY, APRIL 18 Lewis Kennedy voted mayor Erica Lewis Kennedy was voted mayor of Montrose at Thursday's city council meeting despite two votes of opposition. José Abeyta and Ed Ulibarri, the two remain-

Shred it and forget it, preventing identity theft Alpine Bank and Colorado Document Security hosted its first-ever free "Shred it and Forget it" event. In a period of less than two hours, roughly 3,000 pounds of paper were destroyed and prepared for recycling.

April 10 - A 3,375-ton boulder smashed onto East Portal Road after a recent landslide.

(PHOTO COURTESY OF BUREAU OF RECLAMATION) Making the graDe? Lack of affordable housing makes Montrose County one of 24 statewide rate "D" or "D+", with nearly three minimum wage salaries needed to afford fair-market rent for a two-bedroom unit.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16 Sheriff: No reason to probe ranch Although polygamy speculation fueled 'wildfire rumors.' officials say they have no cause for concern with the property purchased

by Neph Barlow, a reported member of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. After visiting the ranch at the invitation of Barlow, Delta County Sheriff Fred McKee and his undersheriff reported that there was no suspicious activity.

THURSDAY, APRIL 17 JetAway says judge should be recused Claiming affidavits against it are "false and fraudulent," JetAway Aviation wants its May 5 hearing on alleged violations of a previous court order vacated. It also says the judge should be recused from the case.

ing councilors after the April 1 election, cast dissenting votes.

Kathy Ellis was voted mayor pro-tem.

TUESDAY, APRIL 22 Tipton receives District 58 Republican nomination Business owner Scott Tipton, RCortez, recently secured the Colorado House District 58 nomination. The nomination will put Tipton atop the Aug. 12 Republican primary election ballot.

Bear sightings mark end of hibernation As bears begin waking from winter slumber, wildlife managers are asking residents to take steps to prevent wildlife-human conflicts.

In Ouray, one bear was first spotted about a week and a half ago in a subdivision on the north end of town. No bears have been spotted in Ridgway, a prime habitat for bears.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19 Olathe apologizes to former attorney The town of Olathe apologized Thursday to its former attorney, calling allegations of possible malpractice against Mindi Conerly-Piggot "unfounded". Outgoing town trustee Linda Steele accused Piggot of failing to disclose a conflict of interest in a timely manner. Piggot resigned after less than three months on the job because of the letter.

Employees likely to seek work in Montrose versus Ouray

MONDAY, APRIL 21 For the fun of fishing The sun beat down and the wind whipped Chipeta Lake's waters Saturday, but that did little to spoil the fun for hundreds of children at the area's annual Rotary Club Fishing Derby.

County approves after-school funding Commissioners approved $5,000 for an after-school program Monday, after having turned town a previous request that would have tapped into the county's general fund. The program services hundreds of students each week with after-school activities and homework help.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23 Olathan for president?

Aiming to contend with the likes of John McCain, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama for presidency of the United States, Jonathan Allen aims to run. Allen, a resident of Olathe is an international businessman who believes he can match the other candidates head

6 stranded in creek rescued Six minors escaped injury when they were rescued from the swift waters of Dry Creek. The teens tried to cross the creek in a vehicle when they became stuck.

Waters were increasing rising and covered all but 6 inches of their Bronco forcing them out.

They were able to reach help with the use of a cell phone.

THURSDAY, APRIL 24 Contributing to their future Students from Montrose Columbine and Centennial middle schools planted trees along the Uncompahgre River as part of an ongoing educational partnership between the city of Montrose and the Friends of the River Uncompahgre. The FORU event aimed at teaching students about their responsibility to maintain the natural spaces around them and the importance of getting involved now.

State's high court coming to Delta The Colorado Supreme Court will hear arguments in Delta May 1, at the Delta Performing Arts Center as part of the state's "Courts in the Community" outreach program. High school students will get a first-hand look at how the judicial system works as the court hears actual arguments in two cases.

Taking the next step For the last four years, Lady Indians’ senior Tessa Sullivan has been a prominent image on the golf courses around Montrose and now she is taking that dedication to the next step. Sullivan signed a letter of intent to play golf at Regis University.

FRIDAY, APRIL 25 Commission seeks input on judges With seven area judges standing for retention this year, the commission charged with evaluating their performance is seeking public input.

The commission will recommend whether local judges up for new terms should be retained. Judges are evaluated for integrity, control over proceedings, sentencing practices, legal ability, docket management, and more.

Elliot won't soon forget the brilliant light that illuminated his field late Thursday night. Elliot saw a long stream of light that he thought was a meteor or space debris. It lit up and then got dark again. The meteor, confirmed by amateur astronomer Chris Peterson, started 18 miles west of Montrose and ended 10 miles northwest of Olathe.

Minor quake felt in Montrose If you thought you felt the earth move Wednesday morning, you are correct. A small tremor rippled through the area about 14 miles west of Montrose at 2:53 a.m. According to John Bellini, geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey's National Earthquake Information Center in Golden, the quake charted 2.4 on the Richter scale.

Roads open at Black Canyon Summer season has officially begun in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park as both the South Rim Drive and the North Rim Road are open.

Though the park superintendent Connie Rudd said they aim to have the roads earlier in April, there was as much as 40 inches of snow piled up at the Visitor Center as late as March 3.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27 Woman searches for answers in Black Canyon death Angela St. John visits the Black Canyon of the Gunnison often, remember her daughter who should not be dead.

Authorities say they are left with an "inconclusive" case but no evidence there were witnesses and nothing further to probe. St. John is left with questions.

Running for the empowerment of girls, women and families For thousands who've reached out to the Tri-County Resource Center for help, and for those who may need help in the future, Saturday's Run for Shelter plays a vital role.

The 5K run/walk raises awareness and funding for the center, a Hilltop program. Participants in the run included Girls on the Run and about 350 runners total from all walks of life.

MONDAY, APRIL 28 Tibetan sand mandala at Ute Museum With a disciplined hand and trained concentration, Tibetan Monk Thinley creates a vibrant work of art one grain of sand at a time. The mandala symbolizes the "deity" of wisdom and peace.

Over the next 11 days, Thinley will work with assistance from Geshe Phuntsok to create the

design.

Once completed, the mandala will be destroyed. It's tradition to destroy the work of art to symbolize the impermanence of life and return the sand to the river.

TUESDAY, APRIL 29 Man impaled, killed in accident In an "unusual and unlikely" accident, 45-year old Troy Ruggles was killed. Ruggles lost control of his vehicle during a medical distress, hitting two trees, running over a barbed wire fence and landing on a pipe that pinned him to his seat.

Sims sentenced in home blaze Both sides agreed that alcohol played a large part in Dewayne Sim's legal troubles. Sims, now 37, was arrested last May after the house rented by Janet Donaldson went up in flames. Sims also doused Donaldson with gasoline.

Though the prosecution and defense attorneys differed sharply on what his punishment should be Sims was charged with eight years in community corrections.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30 Alignment alternatives for Grand/Rio Grand City officials and engineering consultant representatives introduced a set of alternatives for improving and aligning Grand and Rio Grande Avenues.

Drug bust nets 20-plus grams of cocaine The drug task force was already interested in Osvaldo Gaxiola when agents and other officials spotted him allegedly driving without a valid license. They wound up with a lot more than a traffic arrest when a search of his vehicle yielded several grams of suspected cocaine.

THURSDAY, MAY 1 Wind disrupts power for more than 400 residents High winds likely caused a power outage that lasted for more than an hour in parts of Montrose. The cause of the interruption was cross-arm failure likely brought on by extreme weather.

FRIDAY, MAY 2 End of the rivalry For the first time since the Theodore Roosevelt administration, Montrose and Delta won't be playing a football game against one another this fall. After 121 meetings, the game is cancelled due to enrollment disparity and new playoff-seeding criteria.

'The tradition of that rivalry is awesome, and you hate to lose that, but based on cited differences between the two schools it

The alternate route College isn't for everyone, and neither is the military. But when Ashley Cruz felt discouraged with her life's direction, she stumbled across AmeriCorps.

AmeriCorps members began serving in more than 1,000 communities in 1994. The program puts together 10 member teams which complete four different indepth projects from education to disaster needs. Cruz says the rewards to helping people are big.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 Man marks meteor visit to area Pea Green area resident Chuck

April 22 - Fourth-grade students at Northside Elementary School use their hands to study what happens to solar panels when it is cloudy during an Earth Day celebration at the school Monday. Begun April 22, 1970, Earth Day is intended to be an annual global renewal of our commitment to create a cleaner, safer & healthier world.

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8 January 4, 2009 was decided that it just wasn't worth continuing," state Lyle Wright, Montrose High Athletic Director.

SATURDAY, MAY 3 Lady Indians send five to state By this point in the season, Montrose High’s tennis coaches were hoping they could send at least one player to the state tournament. As it turned out, they’ll be sending five.

Weed department keeping eye on starthistle, loosestrife The Montrose County Weed Mitigation Department is armed - with grants, new equipment and its own facility - and gunning for invasive weeds.

Grants received from the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the Uravan Mill Damage Fund are helping to off-set the cost of eradicating weeds such as the yellow starthistle and purple loosestrife.

Amid controversy, Delta posts 'working drafts' of subdivision regs In the first attempts in 10 years to revise Delta County's subdivision regulations, concerns have been raised over whether the proposed changes are legal or appropriate.

The draft is available online for review and will be addressed at a county work session May 8.

SUNDAY, MAY 4 Cat care would require change in law Non-lethal means of controlling feral cat populations have advantages, but their formal implementation would require a change in Montrose city ordinance.

Trap, neuter and release programs would allow feral cat populations to die out naturally says proponent Beth Jones. For the city to implement such a program, they would have to change city ordinances which require animals to be contained within the property of their owner or other wise under human control.

Judge rejects motion to halt pipeline in western Colorado A federal judge has rejected efforts to block construction of a natural gas pipeline through roadless national forest areas including the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison forest. The BLM has stated that no roads will be built and the new pipeline will parallel an existing one.

MONDAY, MAY 5 Students gear up for solar car challenge Their trip will take them to the famous Texas Motor Speedway for a four-day race. However, this is no ordinary race, neither are the cars or their drivers.

Ridgway high schoolers who have Colorado's only high school solar race car team will make the trip for the race which focuses on avoiding breakdowns, keeping the vehicle light, maximizing the sun's energy and avoiding draining the batteries.

ing a mountain lion in the area north of Riverbottom Park, a city official said. As a safety precaution, warnings have been posted on trails throughout the Uncompahgre River corridor.

knew what type of business they intended to operate off-airport and didn't object until another company pushed for closure.

The county contended that JetAway changed the intent of its business beyond the scope of its lease once the contract to provide fixed-base operations at Montrose Regional Airport went up for bid.

JetAway CEO answers questions on finances, ads JetAway CEO Stephen Stuhmer took the stand Thursday, after Montrose County called its last witness in a high stakes civil case. The bulk of questioning concerned when Stuhmer and/or JetAway began advertising as an “FBO,” instead of a ‘commercial hangaring’ operation, and how long after a court order and subsequent finding of contempt such advertising continued.

Man drowns after plunge into canal A Montrose man, Billy A. Wynn, lost control of his car and went off the road into the M and D Canal. Wynn died of asphyxia due to drowning.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7 Bill Hamm named 2008 Teacher of the Year For his passion and dedication to teaching, Bill Hamm was named 2008 Teacher of the Year. Hamm, 52, has had opportunity to follow other career paths, but he's always been drawn back to teaching.

According to Hamm, "There is no finer profession."

Carnival opened Thursday, despite rainy weather The Giant Ferris Wheel towered high in the air as carnival staff hurried around the wet fairgrounds Thursday in preparation for opening day of the Montrose Lion’s club Carnival, which is now in its ninth straight year.

Although raindrops fell intermittently, they said weather isn’t likely to put a damper on the family fun.

Downtown committee gets rolling A new MAMA-backed committee focused on continuing downtown's success got the ball rolling on some of its ideas Tuesday. Goals of the committee include communication and coordination between the downtown area merchants and building owners, along with the public.

SATURDAY, MAY 10 No fuel sales at JetAway, CEO says “I will tell you unequivocally we did not sell fuel,” Stephen Stuhmer, JetAway’s CEO, said during his second day on the stand.

Stuhmer also said the business only acquired fuel tanks to meet what he thought were the county’s requirements to provide fixed-base operator services at Montrose Regional Airport.

Montrose County claims JetAway violated agreements in order to perform the F.B.O. services. Per a contract with the county, Jet Center Partners pays more than $300,000 per year to provide F.B.O. service.

JetAway denies safety allegations Testimony was received that JetAway not only qualifies as a fixed base operation by definition, but it poses safety concerns at the airport. JetAway denies both accusations.

THURSDAY, MAY 8 Patterson takes stand in FBO trial Montrose County has "bent over backwards" to accommodate JetAway Aviation, Commissioner Bill Patterson testified Wednesday.

JetAway says the county acted at Jet Center Partner's behest to restrict its business. It has also filed federal complaints.

Penny increase for first-class stamps among USPS changes effective Monday The cost of first-class postage stamps will increase by a penny, from 41 to 42 cents, beginning Monday. "As long as inflation goes up, I anticipate it (cost of services) will go up also," said Montrose Postmaster Nick Morgan.

City receives grant for North Seventh Street Bridge The city is set to move forward on improvements to the North Seventh Street bridge after it recently obtained a state grant.

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Program awarded a $360,000 grant to the City of Montrose, which the city will match for a total project funding of $720,000.

TUESDAY, MAY 6 Starting young: Recycling as a way of life The Montrose Recycling Education Committee is looking to make a lasting impression with local children. They are teaching local 3rd grade classes the importance of the three R's - recycle, reuse and reduce.

Scam targets bereaved Police Sgt. Paul Eller said a county resident contacted him recently concerning an alleged credit card "phishing" scam through which the caller attempted to obtain the man's credit card number.

The man, whom Eller did not identify, recently lost a loved one. The caller reportedly said he or she wanted to set up a trust fund for the children of the decedent.

He said no one should ever give out financial information over the phone, no matter how legitimate it sounds. Suspicions should be reported to law enforcement.

Opening salvos fired in FBO trial JetAway argues that the county

FRIDAY, MAY 9 Mountain lion spotted in town Two residents have reported see-

SUNDAY, MAY 11 Sand mandala dissolved at Saturday ceremony In an instant, the vibrant-colored sand mandala created over several days by Tibetan monks was gone, effectively demonstrating the impermanence of life. The sand was the put back into the river with a prayer of peace.

Habitat for Humanity hosts Women's Build On the eve of Mother's Day, local women picked up hammers and other tools — some for the first time — to help build homes for single moms and honor the contributions women have made to Habitat for Humanity.

MONDAY, MAY 12 District below average in 3rdgrade CSAP reading scores Montrose County School District Re-1J’s scores from the third-grade Colorado Student Assessment Program reading tests were all over the grid, with some schools improving and others not.

However, the district’s average percentage dropped, falling below the state’s.

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TUESDAY, MAY 13 Judge denies JetAway motion Despite JetAway’s argument that its opponents failed to prove the necessary elements of their cases, District Judge James Schum ruled Monday Montrose County and Montrose Regional Airport fixed-base operator Jet Center Partners (Black Canyon), had presented sufficient evidence to continue with the bulk of their claims.

THURSDAY, MAY 15 Hospital and surgical center unite Montrose Memorial Hospital and the Black Canyon Surgical Center announced Wednesday that a business agreement between the two has been finalized.

MMH has acquired 51 percent ownership in the surgical center, a plan which has been under discussion for about a year, said MMH CEO Ken Platou.

Lost WWII plaque to be hung this weekend Sixty-three years ago during a time of war, Montrose community members decided to honor their local armed forces by the creation of the Veteran’s Memorial Pool.

When the new pool was built in 1987, the old pool was demolished. But this weekend, veterans

Seven Montrose athletes prepare for championship runs The state title hopes of the Montrose tack and field team will rest on the shoulders of seven athletes this weekend. Senior Chris Hay qualified for the 3,200-meter run and was a member of the 4x800 qualifying relay team. Juniors Kris Ferguson and Michael Wallendorff and senior Kyle Mas-

teammates will compete in the state meet.

SATURDAY, MAY 17 Verdict pending in airport contracts trial The verdict is still out after lengthy closing arguments Thursday concluded one of the largest civil court proceedings to involve Montrose County.

At stake is what private jet center JetAway Aviation can and cannot do under a lease assignment and through-the-fence agreement with Montrose County, among other issues.

Wareham new MHS baseball coach Landon Wareham, son of Olathe High School’s athletic director, comes to Montrose after spending five seasons as an assistant at Mesa State.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

May 23 - Water pours over the Crystal Dam in the Black Canyon National Park Thursday morning. At 227 feet in height, the dam's free-form spillway is capable of releasing 42,000 cubic feet of water per second.

and the community can once again view the plaque and remember their fellow neighbors who fought in WWII as the plaque will be displayed in the entrance of the Aquatic Center.

terson join Hay for the relay.

Off the track, Montrose throwers Sophomore Josh White (shot put), junior Natalia Figgs (shot put) and Wendy Huber (discus) are heading to state.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14 Bank robbery foiled Communication and citizen assistance led to the quick capture of a bank robbery suspect Tuesday morning.

Jude A. Duran, 29, of New Mexico, was arrested by Montrose County Sheriffs less than an hour after he allegedly used a small firearm to rob Vectra Bank on South Townsend Ave.

FRIDAY, MAY 16 South Townsend access management to soon be subject of public meetings Public meetings on the South Townsend Access Control Plan should be set within the next two months, city officials said. Working with the Colorado Department of Transportation, the plan basically manages the locations where vehicles enter and exit the roadway.

Settlement offered to Olathe board A lawsuit settlement presented to the Olathe Town Board of Trustees appears to be simple: pay all attorney fees and don’t do it again. However, the board did not make a decision Monday evening.

On Aug. 22, 2007, a lawsuit was filed on behalf of Olathe farmer John Harold against the board regarding the Colorado Open Meetings Law. Womack resigns as head baseball coach Montrose head baseball coach Bill Womack officially resigned last Tuesday, and the school is currently searching for his replacement.

Womack spent the past four years as the Indians’ head coach, as was an assistant from 2000-04.

Senior duo representing Montrose at state golf tournament Before seniors Danielle Tafoya and Tessa Sullivan don on their caps and gown for graduation, they have to take one more trip to the golf course as Lady Indians.

The two are among 84 golfers who are competing at the Class 4A girls' state golf tournament.

Indians dive into the state meet The Montrose High swimming team placed second at the district meet last weekend and will compete in seven different events at the 2008 Class 4A state meet this weekend.

The Indians were led by Dan Schwab in the 100- yard butterfly, diving and as a member of the 200 free and 400 freestyle relay teams. Schwab and six of his

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Now in his first stint as a head coach, Wareham said he plans to turn the Indians’ program around and get back to the postseason.

SUNDAY, MAY 18 Raising fish for recreational pursuits The journey of the fish in Rifle Hills Fish Hatchery destined to be recreational stock may end in an instant with a hook but begins years before the actual catch, in an efficient state system producing millions annually. It's a process not only about rearing fish but collecting data and analyzing a variety of factors in state waters.

Track teams wrap up state meet The Montrose and Olathe High track and field teams wrapped up their seasons in the second day of state meet action on Saturday.

Olathe senior Wes Byers took second in the long jump and sixth in the 200-meter dash finals.

MONDAY, MAY 19 78 Olathe graduates make step from students to alumni Through comedic recollections and earnest advice, honored Olathe graduates stood in front of their fellow classmates and a filled stadium of friends and family Sunday to say their goodbyes.

Of the 78 graduates, 20 percent wore white cords showing acceptance into the National Honor Society which is only one of the many honors received for this class.

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Year in Review 2008 TUESDAY, MAY 20 A break in burned body case Jeremy Hodges, 27, of Ridgway, was arrested on suspicion of murder after investigators were able to follow up on a tip from a “citizen informant,” in the 18month old case of the murder of Steven Kublin. Formal charges have yet to be filed.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 21 3,900 Montrose residents to get new ZIP code High growth and future development have led to the creation of a new ZIP code for the southwest Montrose area. Those residents in that area switch to a new ZIP code, 81403, on July 1, according to the United States Postal Service.

The change will affect a total of 3,900 Montrose mailing addresses.

Records sealed in murder case Authorities are keeping mum about what allegedly ties a Ridgway man to the 2006 murder of Steven Kublin and court records have been sealed for now. Jeremy Hodges, 27, made his first court appearance Tuesday.

Formal charges are still pending.

Lady Indians wrap up season Tessa Sullivan finishes 28th; Danielle Tafoya 35th at Class 4A state girls golf championships at the par-73, 5,909-yard Rolling Hills Golf Club.

THURSDAY, MAY 22 Septage and composting facility proposed for area West of Olathe Everyone seems to agree: Montrose County needs a long term solution to the area's septic waste receiving. Whether part of the answer lies in a proposal by a local septage hauler is another issue.

Chuck Bishop, owner of Eagle Plumbing and Septic in Montrose, is proposing to build a septage receiving station and composting processing facility west of Olathe. He leases the property for the proposed site.

A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for the Montrose County Planning Commission meeting to discuss concerns and capability.

Walsh petitioning for primary spot Tim Walsh sought his party’s nomination for the District 3 county commission seat, but failed to garner enough delegate votes during county assembly.

Walsh, at the suggestion of others is trying to obtain the 110 signatures he needs so county Democrats will have a contested primary and have to choose between Walsh and current nominee Roger Brown.

SUNDAY, MAY 25 Forging the future of Cerise In a few weeks, the city will celebrate another task completed for an ongoing project — Cerise Park. The dedication of the new Stover Field and 10-acre multipurpose field on the west side of the park will be an exciting time for residents who have been working since the early 1990s to spruce up the once cluttered homestead area.

Saturday outage temporarily interrupted businesses A power outage Saturday left some businesses and residents without electricity for close to an hour and a half, Delta-Montrose Electric Association reported.

The affected area included Church Street to East Oak Grove. About 89 DMEA customers were affected.

MONDAY, MAY 26 MHS graduates celebrate More than 200 graduates walked the football field in their red and white gowns Sunday afternoon for the Montrose High School Commencement. Then it was time for the class’ guest speaker, 1993 MHS graduate and pro-

Snow delays road opening, jeep tours Jeep tourism in Ouray County is facing delays as the county’s road and bridge department plows through overwhelming amounts of snow on the area’s most popular trails.

FRIDAY, MAY 30 Public invited to view spillover Limited access to Crystal Dam will be provided to the public today and Saturday for viewing or photographing of the spring runoff and releases occurring from the dam’s spillway and power plant, Wilderness Society counters BLM energy report BLM report pointing to untapped federal lands to help ease the country’s energy woes provoked criticism from the Wilderness Society.

Leasing public lands for oil and gas drilling is drawing disdain from The Wilderness Society’s BLM Action Center in Denver.

“This is an absolutely disturbing approach to managing our lands,” said Nada Culver, Wilderness Society.

SATURDAY, MAY 31 Summer not slowing traffic into Christ's Kitchen Christ’s Kitchen is reaching out to the community for more donations as the number of people stopping by for lunch is steadily increasing.

The kitchen is serving an average of about 80 meals each day, Monday through Friday.

Toddler falls from second story in Montrose A 4-year-old boy fell from the sec-

No holiday access to Divide, Hwy 90 Memorial Day weekend plans requiring access to Highway 90 and Divide Road will have to take a detour.

The Forest Service and Montrose County Road and Bridge have closed portions of the roads for safety reasons. The culprit, despite several days of very warm weather recently, is heavy snow in the area.

State testing Montrose voting equipment Step by step, county and state elections officials tested the accuracy of local voting equipment Thursday. The county hopes to be removed from the state watch list.

SATURDAY, MAY 24 Police: Man confronts burglar in home Charles Head, 31, burglary suspect was arrested after struggling with the man whose home he allegedly entered late Thursday night.

Head is accused of forcibly entering a home on South Third Street just a few minutes before midnight.

Permit denied for septage and composting facility west of Olathe On the basis of poor site selection and related health and safety issues, the commission denied a special-use permit for a proposed septage receiving station and composting processing facility on Easter Road.

“We need the facility but this is the wrong place,” said commissioner Gary Garren.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

May 26 - Montrose graduates toss their caps in the air celebrating the end of their high school career Sunday afternoon. Many of the students decorated their caps with such things as blow-up guitars, card houses and flowers.

with its neighboring volunteer service.

Premier league plays at Cerise Park Every Sunday, two Montrose Recreation District Premier League soccer teams take to the Cerise Park’s new Stover Field.

Many have bright colored uniforms and Spanish names such as Aguilas de Tabasco and Atletico Gunnison.

There are 10 league teams, two of which are from Telluride and include the Telluride High School soccer team, and one is from Gunnison. Montrose’s High School’s soccer team, the Montrose Avalanche, also compete.

TUESDAY, JUNE 3 A call out to Iraq, Afghan vets The Midwestern Colorado Mental Health Center has begun a program for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to provide a safe, welcoming and confidential place to “learn to heal and carry life forward.”

The new support group provides a confidential place for soldiers to share stories and thoughts.

Nucla airfield snags grant A new fuel system is in the works for the Nucla airfield, after the county signed off on a state grant agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation’s aeronautical division for $130,400.

The county need only kick in $34,000 in matching funds to construct an aboveground fueling system at Nucla’s Hopkins Field at a total cost of about $165,000.

Robbery witnesses earn reward Grateful for citizen involvement that helped stymie a robbery at its Montrose branch May 13, Vectra Bank is putting its money where its mouth is. Terry Neeld, market president for Vectra in Montrose, said the two witnesses credited with leading authorities to robbery suspect Jude Duran, will receive $1,000 savings bonds as a token of the bank's gratitude.

Duran, 29, was indicted Wednesday on a federal charge of bank robbery, according to U.S. District Attorney's Office spokesman Jeff Dorschner.

FRIDAY, MAY 23 Crystal dam spills over for first time in 7 years The last time water spilled over the top of Crystal Dam was in 2001. Even then, that incident didn’t reach the extent it has this week, as warm temperatures melt away above-average snowpack.

The spillover has been a spectacle for those visiting and working in the area. Bureau of Reclamation staff have been preparing for weeks in anticipation of the spill.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4 Storm damage closes Olathe clinic Several weeks ago, strong winds and rain caused considerable damage to the Olathe Medical Clinic‘s roof, walls and electrical.

After having to shut its doors on and off for the past several weeks it will start taking appointments again Friday.

PHOTOS BY JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

May 27 - A symbol of the men and women who gave their lives and served their county sits behind the graves at Grand View Cemetery during a Memorial Day service Monday morning.

(Inset) A new memorial stands in the veteran's section at Cedar Cemetery and was unveiled during Monday's Memorial Day service.

athlete Dirk Johnson, who told the graduates that “football is a lot like life.”

After Johnson’s “locker room talk” it was time for the graduates to pass from students to alumni.

TUESDAY, MAY 27 A somber remembrance With arms raised in salute and others rested gently over the heart, members of the community stood somberly Monday to honor those who gave their lives and served their county.

Many Memorial Day ceremonies took place today. Local DAV unveiled a new memorial where, up until several weeks ago, a crumbling stone memorial stood in Cedar Cemetery.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28 House Speaker endorses Hagan House Speaker Andrew Romanoff announced his endorsement of Noelle Hagan for the Colorado House District 58 seat to the Daily Press Tuesday. “I’m proud to support Noelle,” Romanoff said.

January 4, 2009 9

ond story window of a Montrose apartment building on Roma Court, landing on the concrete patio below.

The toddler did not appear to have severe injuries at the scene, said Tad Rowan, Montrose Fire Department deputy chief.

SUNDAY, JUNE 1 Art Walk opens Friday Montrose brims with local artists, yet for many years lacked spaces devoted solely to showing their art. That’s changing now.

This Friday’s premiere of Art Walk, an event to promote local art, coupled with the past year’s addition of a handful of galleries and studios, is playing a part in growing Montrose’s art scene.

String of weekend thefts in Montrose Police reported several incidents of theft that began Friday and went through the weekend.

Some make living from the resale of yard sale goods Some make a living selling their goods at yard sales, others buy to re-sell.

A man who goes by an alias, “Slim Pickin’s,” is one yard sale shopper who resells to local antique shops. He often buys and resells items in the same day, earning enough money to support himself through the summer.

It’s not easy work; Slim has to run long and hard in his small, vintage automobile to get good stuff to make his living.

THURSDAY, MAY 29 Noise and dust concerns slow proposal to start up 70-acre off-road track in Montrose After having their permit request denied last week, Kim and Chuck Madison still want to build a 70acre motorcycle and ATV track on their property. They are exploring mitigation for dust and noise so they can put the project back on the county’s table.

MONDAY, JUNE 2 Senior transportation to expand to Delta County Senior transportation services in Montrose and Delta counties are combining their fleets to become more efficient and provide needed services.

All Points Transit, Montrose’s senior transportation agency, announced it will expand its service into Delta County, collaborating

Man held in alleged crash, drug incident Police took José Chavez-Montoya, 44, into custody Saturday, after he crashed his car and reportedly left the scene. ChavezMontoya was allegedly under the influence of drugs and also had drugs in his vehicle when it was searched.

Friends, family mourn loss of former Bureau of Reclamation official

Former Reclamation commissioner John W. Keys, 66, died Friday in a plane crash in Canyonlands National Park.

John W. Keys’ sincerity never waned, even when his lifelong career with the Bureau of Reclamation led him to an office in Washington, D.C. When Keys, 66, became a highranking official, his genuine interest in others remained. It is this that quality friends, family and colleagues recall most as they mourn his loss.

THURSDAY, JUNE 5 Library celebrates 10 years Friday Ten years ago, a “cart brigade” traveled Montrose’s streets filled with books on its way to the new Montrose Regional Library.

Friday evening, the streets will be filled again for a celebration of its anniversary. The celebration follows the mission of the library, which is to educate, enlighten, enrich, entertain and inform.

Migrant-worker housing still needed, Olathe dorm still open In the midst of serious need for farm worker housing, the Olathe farm dormitory will stay open and continue operations under the same federal rules.

The Montrose County Housing Authority board decided at its last meeting to rescind its former decision to close the 72-bed dorm June 1 unless foreign workers on visas were allowed to use it after realizing that closing the dorm doesn’t really solve the problem of housing needs for temporary residents on visas.

Man held in knife attack A man already on probation for misdemeanor assault could now face felony charges in an alleged knife attack Tuesday night.

Tyrell Rose, 24, was arrested on suspicion of first degree assault.

trose business is doing its part to help. Cedar Creek Computers recently signed on with Cell Phones for Soldiers, a nonprofit begun by two Massachusetts teens to raise money for prepaid calling cards that are sent to active-duty personnel.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7 Drug task force money axed It’s come to pass: Byrne grant funding for the local drug task force was yanked Wednesday and area governments will be asked to take up the slack.

Montrose walks for a cure Some wore pink; others, purple.

Still others wore tropical sarongs, tiaras, or colorful hats. But the more than 200 people who gathered at the Montrose High track field Friday night for the Montrose County Relay For Life had the same goal: defeat cancer.

Commercial use not appropriate for downtown neighborhood, council says Siding with residents’ concerns that allowing commercial development would change the character of a historic downtown residential area, Montrose City Council voted down a rezoning change Thursday. In a 4-1 vote, with Councilor Gail Marvel dissenting, the council denied a request that properties located at 101 and 105 S. Mesa Avenue be rezoned from Medical Residential (MR) to Central Business District (B-1).

SUNDAY, JUNE 8 $4 gas prices hit Montrose Four. It’s a symbolic figure of how far gas prices have come in such a short period; and it will soon become a commonplace sight at Montrose gas stations. Regularunleaded gallons at most town outlets on Saturday were priced at either $3.92 or $3.99. A few outlets already surpassed the $4 mark.

FRIDAY, JUNE 6 Main in Motion kicks off Coordinators joked it was almost “Rain in Motion.” But, after wet weather earlier Thursday, Montrose’s premiere summer event kicked off under cloudy skies. But Main in Motion returned for its eighth season, with the same mission as always: The gathering of folks Downtown.

Airport feeling effects of economic downturn Booked flights into Montrose Regional Airport are down 8 percent compared to the same time last year, based on advanced reports. Officials said the drop in activity reflects the nation’s overall economic state and fare competition with Grand Junction.

Montrose business signs on with Cell Phones for Soldiers A call home can help close the distance between U.S. soldiers and their families, and one Mon-

Walsh successfully petitions onto ballot The race is on. Montrose County Democrats will have a contested primary for the District 3 commis-

Year in Review 2008

10 January 4, 2009 ter rights on the San Miguel River. Commissioners said they were concerned that if the rights are converted solely to instream flow, already limited water supplies on the county's West End could be further reduced.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

June 3 - Gas topped off at $4.08 a gallon Monday afternoon in Olathe.

Montrose is also seeing the effects of high prices with stations displaying signs as high as $3.99 a gallon.

sion seat after Tim Walsh successfully petitioned onto the ballot. Walsh, who fell short of having enough delegate votes at the Democratic caucus this spring, was able to gather 134 signatures from registered Montrose County Democrats in just four days.

MONDAY, JUNE 9 Fuel cost hard on commuters Rising gas prices have put everyone in a crunch. But those who have found work in the outlining areas, such as Telluride and Delta, filling up at the gas pump becomes a daily occurrence, and trying to figure out how to supplement the cost has become even more challenging.

TUESDAY, JUNE 10 Olathe board settles in Harold lawsuit The Olathe Town Board vs. John Harold lawsuit concluded Monday evening after the board approved a settlement agreement in a 4-2 vote at its regular board meeting. On Aug. 22, 2007, a lawsuit was filed on behalf of Harold, an Olathe farmer, against the board regarding the Colorado Open Meetings Law. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11 Cops feeling pinch of rising fuel prices Rising fuel costs are hitting law enforcement’s bottom line. That won’t lead to a reduction of service, police and sheriff’s officials said, but it will require changes in how things are done.

Two held after 100mph chase The Colorado State Patrol nabbed two people in a stolen car, after a high-speed chase.

Christian Rowls, 19, and his passenger, Kehlie Rowls, 20, both of Pueblo, were initially held on suspicion of second-degree aggravated motor vehicle theft, CSP Cpt. Clark Bates said. The two were in a Ford Escort that had been reported stolen in Pueblo.

Trooper Garrett Reich clocked the Escort at 100 mph in a 65 mph zone on Highway 50.

THURSDAY, JUNE 12 Local residents finding more ways to beat pump prices Consumers are combing the market for something different to help cut down the cost of getting around; and bike, scooter and car inventories are moving out as fuel costs move up. At least in the short term, demand for fuel-efficient cars is growing, along with a surplus of used SUVs and trucks, said Flower Motor general manager Fletcher Flower.

County wants to be sure West End not left high and dry Montrose County wants to "be in the game" for old UMETCO wa-

FRIDAY, JUNE 13 Some vacationers choosing to stay close to home Vacationers are still hitting the road despite higher gas prices.

That’s the message from Jenni Sopsic, executive director of the Montrose Visitors and Convention Bureau. However, some travelers are choosing getaways closer to home. Some Coloradans are opting to take “staycations” and explore their own state.

Man formally charged with murder in burned body case A single charge of first-degree murder was filed Thursday against Jeremy Hodges, 27, in the 2006 slaying of Michigan native Steven Kublin. Kublin, 50, was found dead near the Montrose County landfill in November of that year. His body had been burned postmortem, Montrose County Sheriff’s investigators said.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14 Eckhart takes District 4 seat Winning by a nearly 1,000-vote margin, Cedaredge resident Mark Eckhart will represent District 4 on the Delta-Montrose Electric Association board.

In the board’s only contested race, Eckhart received 2,667 votes and Les Mergelman, also of Cedaredge, got 1,691. In DMEA District 7, unchallenged incumbent Les Renfrow received 3,851 votes and will continue serving on DMEA’s board.

Unchallenged incumbent Nancy Hovde reclaimed DMEA’s District 9 (“at large” district) with 3,816 votes. She will enter her third consecutive term.

SUNDAY, JUNE 15 Hybrids popular, albeit costlier option for cutting fuel Before Turner Toyota's most recent order of hybrid and fuel-efficient cars end up on the lot, they could already be in the hands of their new owners. This is not an unlikely occurrence now that gas prices have been on the rise; such vehicles are becoming increasingly sought after. But with the cost difference between fuelefficient and hybrid cars, consumers sometimes opt for the cheaper of the two.

fields, a park shelter, recreation trails, public fishing and picnic areas.

what had been projected last year which is causing for some budget guidelines and shortfalls.

MONDAY, JUNE 16 A rocking opening in Olathe Patrons crowded into the newly constructed Rocking W Cheese and Milk’s retail store Saturday, enjoying samples of local dairy products for the store’s grand opening. Rocking W Cheese, on the corner of 57.00 Road and Colo. Highway 348, opened six weeks ago, providing milk products and nine different types of cheeses.

THURSDAY, JUNE 19 Green principles taking root in Montrose An increasing number of city residents are diverting green (biodegradable) waste from the landfill by bringing it to a central drop off center.

Residents not only bring green waste to the site, they also pick it up to use as mulch in gardens.

If numbers stay on pace for the year, the amount of customers using the city’s Green Waste drop Off Center in 2008 is expected to surpass last year’s.

TUESDAY, JUNE 17 Employees nab fraud suspect Alert City Market employees stopped one alleged check fraud in its tracks and also helped run the flip-flop wearing suspect to the ground.

The Delta Police Department said Timothy Kuskowski, 44, of Denver, attempted to cash a check at the Delta City Market June 11.

Project 7 fights permit fees MONTROSE — Saying they were bound by a 2006 resolution, county commissioners turned down Project 7 Water Authority’s request for a waiver of building permit fees for the treatment plant upgrade to improve capacity.

“It seems when one governmental entity imposes fees on another, the (consumer) pays,” Wayne Blair, who represents Olathe on Project 7’s board of directors, said Monday.

DMEA board assigns officers at meeting Delta-Montrose Electric Association announced its board officers Monday, and the boards on which they will hold representation.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18 20 riders from Montrose biking across the state After two days and 126 grueling miles, Roger Heaton, one of 20 residents from Montrose that are partaking on the sevenday 23rd Annual Denver Post Ride the Rockies was able to sleep in his own bed.

Ride the Rockies riders stopped In Montrose on their trek that started in Durango Sunday and caps off in Breckenridge Saturday.

County watches purse strings as tax revenues fall short The forecast calls for “conservative revenue,” Montrose County

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

June 7 - Cancer survivors, family and friends participate in the 'Survivors’ Lap,' to begin this year's Montrose County Relay For Life Friday early Friday evening at Montrose High School.

Cerise Park grand opening Cerise Park had its grand opening, featuring some 100 acres that is part of the Clifford E. Baldridge Regional Park. It will feature a number of multi-use

Manager Joe Kerby told department heads Monday.

The slowing economy has affected sales tax revenues and building permits.

Montrose County’s sales tax revenues are 17 percent less than

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New charges possible in driveby shooting Rafael Arellano is accused of shooting a car in which a man and woman were traveling in June 2006. The latest charges of two counts of attempted first-degree murder with deliberation-intent to kill a specific person were part of the reason his preliminary hearing was continued once again.

These new charges entitle Arellano to a new preliminary hearing.

FRIDAY, JUNE 20 Child poverty on the rise in county Recently, the Colorado Children’s Campaign released shocking news — the number of Colorado children living in poverty increased 73 percent in a sixyear period beginning in 2000, the highest increase in the nation.

Locally, the numbers are just as alarming. Twenty-five percent of Montrose County’s 2006 population was under the age of 18. The same percentage of county households was living below selfsufficient standards (5 percent more than the state’s average) in 2000.

Knife attack suspect denied PR bond Bond will remain at $60,000 for assault suspect Tyrell Rose, 24, despite his community ties and lack of felony convictions.

County Judge John Mitchel on Thursday turned down Rose’s request for a personal recognizance bond because of the violence police alleged was involved in a June 3 knife attack despite the fact that the charge was lowered to second-degree assault.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 Montrose airport contributes millions to regional economy The Montrose Regional Airport substantially fuels the local economy, generating an estimated economic output exceeding $329 million annually, based on the 2008 Colorado Aviation Economic Impact Study.

Planning board mulled for West End County leadership agrees that residents of the West End need a voice in planning decisions.

The county is aiming to create a planning advisory committee that would meet in the West End and include five members from Nucla, Naturita and surrounding areas.

Durango murder case goes to Montrose jury The case against a La Plata County man accused of felony murder and sexual assault was held in Montrose after a change of venue.

Carlton Yazzie, 39, was charged with two others in the 2007 death of Nicole Redhorse, 34.

Redhorse had been partying with Yazzie, his nephew, Derrick Begaye, and Harold Nakai at the Spanish Tails hotel in Durango where she was found dead.

SUNDAY, JUNE 22 Greeley Derby Girls hold fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity It’s Roller Madness. Collisions, bruises, mini skirts and the vintage roller skates were back in style Saturday at Friendship Hall, and for a good cause.

In a fundraiser event for the Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics, the Greeley Slaughterhouse Derby Girls held a bout between its two interleague squads the Renegade Brigade and the Marshals of Mayhem.

Montrose-based effort to help Midwest flood victims In a drive to bring relief to victims struck by floods and storms in the Midwest, food and supplies bound for Iowa will leave Montrose about a week from today.

Established three years ago, the non-profit Western Colorado Disaster Relief has also helped other victims of natural disasters and operates year round to help local fire and flood victims too.

MONDAY, JUNE 23 Vintage passenger train provides educational opportunity Every two hours in the United States, a vehicle or pedestrian is struck by a train.

Friday, a vintage Union Pacific passenger train journeyed through the Western Slope as part of a campaign to bring safety and awareness to the public and

their emergency responders.

TUESDAY, JUNE 24 Two fall at Black Canyon Two climbers were injured in separate accidents at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison over the weekend.

Rec District starts expansion process “It’s so important with our programming needs, we can’t stand idle,” said Dean Palmquist, MRD executive director. Despite the defeat by last year’s voters, the Montrose Recreation District is moving ahead with phase one of a rec center expansion.

The plans propose the building be constructed on the east end of the Aquatic Center, with a north-facing entrance.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 Montrose hospital CEO resigns Montrose Memorial Hospital CEO Ken Platou announced his resignation during Monday night’s hospital board meeting, to be effective July 1.

Interim CEO Keith Broach will assume the leadership and direction of the hospital starting Monday.

‘No kill’ region goal for Western Slope animal welfare groups Ten years from now the city’s animal shelter aims to be a place that doesn’t euthanize adoptable animals.

al submitted at trial. In its most recent motion, JetAway contends the airport layout plan, or ALP, the county submitted at trial is not the same plan as was approved by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Planning commission rejects storage shed proposal Chris Hoskins, ABS Storage owner, sought rezoning from residential to commercial for 18.5 acres off of the Highway 50. His representatives said the request conformed to the master plan for highway corridors and the property lies within the commercial overlay corridor.

Traffic safety was the main concern that led to disapproval by the planning commission, as they did not feel it met safety standards applicable to busy Highway 50.

SUNDAY, JUNE 29 Craftsmanship in fabric Each July, the three major guilds in Montrose, including Friendship Quilters of Western Colorado, Columbine Quilters and San Juan Quilters, come together to host the Black Canyon Quilt Show, an event that is attracting growing numbers of participants and visitors alike.

This year nationally-known editor and public television host Marianne Fons, co-Editor in Chief of "Love of Quilting" magazine and co-host, with Liz Porter, of Fons &

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

June 6 - Shea Lewis, an employee with Fox Theatre, prepares cotton candy before the start of the eighth annual Main in Motion Thursday evening.

Today it is part of a western Colorado coalition maneuvering to become a “no kill” region.

THURSDAY, JUNE 26 Subdivision regs set for update The planning commission will decide whether to recommend the proposed changes regarding fire flow after a public hearing tonight.

It’s mulling whether to increase flow requirements for fire hydrants for new residential, commercial and industrial developments to at least 500 gallons per minute, with some exceptions which would put the county on the same page as the Montrose Fire Protection District.

A school in the Catholic tradition Members of the Catholic community put a long-standing idea into motion and are opening Pope John Paul II Academy in September.

The academy will be a private independent school in the Roman Catholic tradition, said board member Dr. Michael Brezinsky. It will start with kindergarten through second grade with hopes of expanding one or two grades each year, eventually becoming a K-12 school.

FRIDAY, JUNE 27 Intruder found sleeping in home A homeowner and a sheriff’s investigator both got unpleasant surprises Wednesday afternoon, courtesy an alleged intruder.

San Miguel County Sheriff’s Cmdr. Eric Berg said Noah Grubb was found sleeping at the historic Bridal Veil power plant, which Eric Jacobson has converted to a private residence.

Berg had to overpower Grubb to arrest him.

New track operator looking for more participation With one week under his belt as the new Montrose BMX track operator Randy Larson is ready to increase the local interest in the sport of BMX. To help increase the numbers, he said the track needs to get more families involved in BMX. City narrowing down search for assistant manager Ten candidates from a pool of more than 100 applicants for the city’s assistant manager position were interviewed Thursday and today, officials said.

Hernandez withdraws appeal Adam Hernandez won’t appeal his sentence in the 2005 death of Kevin Hale after all, court records show.

“After having two years to reflect on his sentence, Mr. Hernandez understands that his sentence was appropriate for his actions,” the withdrawal motion stated.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28 JetAway: County ‘fabricated’ evidence With allegations of “fabricated evidence,” JetAway Aviation has asked the court to reopen materi-

Porter’s "Love of Quilting," show.

Marianne's presentation and trunk show, "Why We Quilt," will examine the motivations of American quilters from 1776 to the present day.

Police see uptick in sex assault reports Sexual assault reports have more than doubled since the same time last year, Montrose Police Chief Tom Chinn said, and many of them are children victims.

"We've seen an increase in the number of children going through the Dolphin House," director Kay Alexander said.

Alexander also pointed to prevention and awareness work being conducted in conjunction with the Dolphin House, such as "stranger danger" programs in schools.

MONDAY, JUNE 30 Colorado liquor stores gearing up for Sunday Independent liquor stores are gearing up for an extra consumer rush on July 6when it becomes legal for them to sell liquor, wine and beer on Sundays.

Colorado is the 35th state to permit Sunday alcohol sales at retail stores.

TUESDAY, JULY 1 State touts energy contracts The county’s annual estimated energy tab is a whopping $450,000.

The energy performance contracts offered by the state include financing through a third party in exchange for more sensible energy use and strategies, for example, replacing high-operating cost lights with lower-operating cost lights. Grant funding could be available to pay for an energy audit.

Montrose firefighters and Delta police join up for fundraiser For the first time in several years, Montrose firefighters and Delta police will team up to raise funds for training, equipment, and relief funds.

Montrose will host a charity softball game at Ute Park, featuring Broncos’ alumni Tyrone Braxton and Mark Jackson, and Rockies’ alumni Steve Reed and Walt Weiss.

The police will play against the firefighters in a “tough guys competition” with the alumni as captains and teammates.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2 All sides claim victory in JetAway ruling What JetAway Aviation can and cannot do off-airport was spelled out in a court ruling.

In a written verdict that handed all three parties in contentious litigation a partial victory, Judge James Schum ruled JetAway cannot sell aircraft fuel and is required to meet minimum standards at the Montrose Regional Airport, which Schum found apply to off-airport businesses like JetAway’s.

He said the county could terminate JetAway’s land lease agreement because JetAway breached it by using the leased area for

Year in Review 2008 fixed-base operator services.

The county was awarded nominal attorney’s fees of $1, after spending more than $300,000 to address JetAway’s claims.

The cost of corn Local farmers are seeing the benefit of producing field corn, as prices have drastically increased in the last year. However, those who depend on corn to feed their livestock are faced with higher input costs.

Both circumstances are driving prices up for consumers.

THURSDAY, JULY 3 Felony arrests up 100% The percentage of felony drug arrests involving methamphetamine increased 100 percent over a five-year period, Montrose Meth Coalition numbers show.

Montrose formed its meth coalition only a year ago. The coalition’s committees are working to educate the community and in the process of gathering data about the meth problem in Montrose.

City Market recalls ground beef Kroger, parent of City Market, has expanded a voluntary ground beef recall because of possible E. Coli 0157:H7 contamination.

The recall now includes ground beef products in Styrofoam trays wrapped in clear cellophane or purchased from in-store service counters. The "sell-by" dates are June 20-July 3.

FRIDAY, JULY 4 Police investigate kidnapping attempt Police are investigating a reported kidnapping attempt.

A woman reported she was on Venture Way when a man she did not know pulled up beside her and began chatting, before pulling her into his truck Montrose Police public information officer Kathi Kinkel said.

The woman was able to get away and called 911.

Operation Sweet Tooth radio marathon raises $55,000 When the sports director of KUBC radio, Jim Kerschner, came off the air at 6:30 p.m. on June 28 after nine long days in the station, he had raised $55,000 for Operation Sweet Tooth.

Operation Sweet Tooth has been sending supplies and treats to troops overseas in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Kosovo since 2003.

SATURDAY, JULY 5 Fair share sought in tax increase Lodging businesses are calling for a fair shake as the Montrose City Council and air services committee look at a ballot issue to fund an airport program through an increase in lodging taxes.

Opposition has caused the committee to step back from its proposal to introduce a ballot issue to raise the tax to 4 percent and include ground transportation services.

SUNDAY, JULY 6 U.S. Forest Service proposes cabin rentals Local forest managers plan to open up Silesca and several other old cabins for public rental by fall — in time for hunting season.

Right now they are soliciting the public’s feedback on the idea.

Former Olathe pitcher to play for Mesa State next year Former Olathe pitcher Jake Perkins is making a return to the Western Slope.

Perkins, who has spent the last two seasons developing his game at Otero Junior College in La Junta, will be wearing a Mesa State Mavericks baseball jersey next season.

MONDAY, JULY 7 Sunday liquor sales start in Colorado Sunday was the first day for liquor stores to begin staying open on Sundays. Though it was convenient for customers, some store owners don’t appreciate the new law even though it doesn’t require them to stay open.

Most owners said beer and liquor sales were steady Sunday.

TUESDAY, JULY 8 Local farmers say most crops were affected by cold spring The cold spring and wet planting season had farmers a little worried. However, crops are catching up and harvests are looking more optimistic.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 9 County fund balance shows improvement The county had an overall better fund balance for 2007 than for 2006, auditors reported Monday.

The county had an overall better fund balance for 2007 than for 2006, auditors reported Monday.

The audit looked at financial statements of governmental and business activities, all major funds and aggregate remaining fund information, which were the responsibility of county management.

THURSDAY, JULY 10 Spay/neuter program coffers empty In a scant six months, the Montrose area used more than $25,000 secured to combat pet overpopulation.

In May, the Montrose Animal Protection Agency was forced to suspend it’s spay/neuter voucher program that helps income-eligible pet owners offset the costs of pet sterilization.

FRIDAY, JULY 11 Montrose, western Colorado growing quickly According to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the city of Montrose is among the fastest-growing Western Slope cities and towns.

Montrose’s population is estimated to have grown roughly 6 percent in the past year.

“The Western Slope of Colorado has been discovered,” said Marge Keehfuss, Montrose Chamber of Commerce executive director.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

June 18 - Cyclists from Ride The Rockies, cruise into Montrose after a grueling 65-mile bike ride from Telluride Tuesday morning.

Drug suspect captured after chase After a brief foot chase authorities captured wanted drug sus-

pect, Efrain Hernandez-Ruiz.

Ruiz escaped Seventh Judicial District Meth/Drug Task Force agents June 27.

Committee taking steps in renovating stadium As the saying goes 'Rome wasn't built in a day'.

And while the new multiuse Montrose Community Stadium at Montrose High School is still a couple years away from being completed, the steps are being made to get the stadium completely renovated in the next three years.

SATURDAY, JULY 12 Finding ways to save The greenest building is the one already built.

Montrose began with this sustainability principle when in 2007 it embarked on restoring and retrofitting the town’s historic Elks civic building with geothermal technology and energy saving devices like LED (light emitting diode) lights and occupancy sensors.

The project’s success inspired visions for future city projects and is paving the way for more.

Olathe changing ways to keep budget on track High energy costs are affecting Olathe's budget. However, cutting back on supplies and more walking than driving has kept the overall budget below the 50-percent usage mark for 2008.

SUNDAY, JULY 13 13th annual car show draws hundreds of spectators From tow trucks to 50s classics to a horse drawn carriage . . .

Variety abounds in both the rides and the spectators, hundreds of whom filled the lawn Saturday at Columbine field for the 13th Annual Colorful Colorado Car, Truck and Rod Show.

This year’s featured car was the Chevy Camaro.

Road to the World Series The Montrose Little League Junior All-Star Softball team, ages 13-14, will advance to the State Level.

They will be heading to Westminster to compete for the opportunity to represent the State of Colorado in the Regional Tournament in Midland, Texas in August.

MONDAY, JULY 14 125th birthday bash starts Tues.

Montrose County will kick off its 125th anniversary at 6 p.m. Tuesday with an 1881 stagecoach pulling up to the old historic courthouse downtown.

There will be many events to celebrate, including concerts, food, and historical presentations.

TUESDAY, JULY 15 Centennial principal moves up to administration Kirk Henwood, Centennial principal for the last three years, was recently promoted to director of instructional services. He is now working out of the Montrose County School District Re-1J’s central office.

Shooting victim decries plea deal The three years Gilberto Aguilar could spend in prison for a 2007 shooting are not enough, the victim and her family said.

Aguilar, 31, pleaded guilty in court Monday to felony-5 menacing and had his original charge of first-degree assault dropped

District Attorney Myrl Serra said he could not comment on the plea agreement now, but the reasoning behind it would be made clear at Aguilar’s sentencing Sept. 8.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16 Montrose man building first ofits-kind “green” home On a side street off Main, Montrose-native Sven Krebs is deep in an experiment involving sunlight, recycled materials and loads of concrete.

A construction worker by trade, Krebs has been more of a scientist lately. He’s piecing together “green” ideas in the building of his home on an unlikely plot in the middle of town.

Indictments handed down in camp death More than one year after Caleb Jensen died while under the care of Alternative Youth Adventures, the organization, its parent company and three people have been indicted.

The indictments are sealed until the summons can go out and those charged have notice of what they’ve been charged with.

THURSDAY, JULY 17 Grant could fund emergency op center Montrose County wants to create its own emergency operations center on fairgrounds property, and hopes to snag a $250,000 grant to pay for it.

The county submitted its grant application to the Colorado Division of Emergency Management this week. If awarded, the grant will pay the bulk of renovation costs on an existing building on fairgrounds property.

The county currently shares emergency operations center space with the city at the city annex.

January 4, 2009 11 City looks to attract downtown development with creation of district The core of Montrose’s downtown could see denser development through a measure directed at revitalizing the area.

City council is considering an ordinance to create a “redevelopment overlay zoning district” or “REDO” district. The district is designed to encourage and facilitate residential development in the city’s historic downtown area, the ordinance states.

SUNDAY, JULY 20 DMEA's lighting campaign underway In an effort to reduce energy use and cost, Delta-Montrose Electric Association is sending its members coupons for six free compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).

GMUG leases pulled from upcoming energy sale The Forest Service withdrew 15 parcels up for energy leases at the Bureau of Land Management oil and gas lease sale. The withdrawal is pending decisions on how to manage Colorado’s roadless areas and completion of the environmental impact statement process.

MONDAY, JULY 21 A look at birds of prey Watching birds of prey soar the skies above the Western Slope isn’t a rare sight. But visitors to the Ute Indian Museum saw something special. With Master Falconer Kin Quitugua, they had the unique opportunity to see the majestic birds up close.

increasing prices, from fuel surcharges on products to the products themselves.

Eric Scott, owner of Café 110, said he’s seen many of his products’ prices increase by 20 to 30 percent.

“It boils down to some point, if we don’t raise prices to make the difference with cost changes, we won’t be around to serve food,” says Scott.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23 Cop shoots at teen suspect Officers Geo Mendoza and Lenny Abeyta responded to an alarm that was triggered at an auto dealership on Hillcrest Dr. By the time it ended, Officer Geo Mendoza had been attacked, fired his gun, and negotiated the surrender of the juvenile suspect.

Mendoza was hurt; the suspect was unharmed.

Market, show animals arrive at county fair The Montrose County Fairgrounds was bustling Tuesday as participants tended to their pigs and weighed in their sheep, goats and steers.

School district tax sunsets Residents will pay less in sales tax beginning Aug. 1, following the fulfillment of a $12 million tax dedication to pay for school projects.

The tax rate will decrease from 3.5 percent to 3.0 percent.

The school district is still using portables due to continued growth. If growth maintains a steady pattern, the “It’s About Pride” committee may need to reconvene.

“Get on the stagecoach” for fair “Get on the Stagecoach for an Award Winning Fair” is the theme for the Montrose County Fair and Rodeo this year. Events ranging from dog showing to motocross start Friday and end next Sunday.

FRIDAY, JULY 18 Montrose expects to weather asphalt shortage Oil shortages aren’t just hitting fueling stations and private pocketbooks — they’re affecting asphalt supplies for local roads.

The county has been warned by its supplier of a potential “significant shortage” that could primarily impact projects on the West End. Other road projects should “squeak by,” County Engineer Brian Wilson said.

Kennel operator fined; Olathe facility did not renew license Kennel operator Nita Smith pleaded guilty to animal cruelty last week and is no longer in business after not renewing her license.

According to court records, Smith was sentenced July 8 to fines, court costs and restitution totaling $389.

Marlins swim to WSL championships After finishing first at last weekend's home meet, the Montrose Marlins will try to win their third straight Western Slope League Championship this weekend in Grand Junction.

SATURDAY, JULY 19

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

July 5 - Hundreds of area residents packed Baldridge Park Friday evening for the 2008 Fourth of July fireworks show sponsored by the Montrose Rotary Club.

TUESDAY, JULY 22 Safety urged in wake of fatalities In the aftermath of at least five fatalities and numerous accidents involving OHV/ATVs and licensed vehicles on area National Forest System lands, the Forest Service and area agencies have urged the public to use caution while enjoying the outdoors.

Price hikes hit food industry Everyone is feeling the effect of

THURSDAY, JULY 24 Judge impressed with market lambs, youth’s attitudes Fair participants and their families should be proud, as this year’s sheep show judge said he was impressed with the quality of lambs and the attitude of the youth who showed them.

City finances still in good shape, but tough times may be on horizon In a promising sign for the city’s

Year in Review 2008

12 January 4, 2009 bottom line, auditors recently reported another year of healthy financial growth amid challenging economic times.

Although officials anticipate tough times ahead, both the city’s revenues and assets increased in 2007.

place their bids on one of the hundreds of livestock animals being sold.

The fair dance concluded Saturday night and the Montrose County Fair. Today, the market animals are being loaded up into trailers.

FRIDAY, JULY 25 Harvest Despite setbacks including a longer winter, crops have responded to the summer sun and are ready to go.

Other setbacks were labor and housing concerns according to John Harold, owner of the Tuxedo Corn Company, causing him to make the decision to plant 22percent less acres of sweet corn.

Harold says, “A lot of the reason is the downturn in the economy,” which has affected other aspects of Harold’s harvest as well.

MONDAY, JULY 28 Fair: The grand prize for hard work For a week, the Montrose County Fairgrounds were full of activity.

Now, the area is silent.

Fair week for many means the end, as they will take the money they’ve earned on their show animals and head to college. For others, it means a couple months’ rest before they start all over again.

“The fair is like their grand prize,” said Brenda Percival, assistant to the 4-H agent.

A long week for queen candidates ends with crowning The competition to become the Montrose County Fair and Rodeo queen and princess came to a close Wednesday.

Amanda Castle was crowned queen and Brittany Clawson received the title of queen attendant.

Ashley Watson was crowned fair princess and Savannah Foster was crowned princess attendant.

TUESDAY, JULY 29 Youth center staffer accused of sex assault Formal charges of sexual assault have been filed against Sarah Curry, 29, an employee of the Robert A. Brown Center in Montrose.

Curry appeared in court Monday, free on a $25,000 bond. She is charged with two counts of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, a class-4 felony and one count of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust-pattern.

Bringing up the steer at the county fair The Montrose County Fair and Rodeo held their breeding beef and beef show judging.

“It was really nice to see that quality can come from Montrose County,” said Jim Wilson, steer judge. “That quality says quite a bit for the breeders of Montrose County.”

Marlins swimming their way to the top After two long, hard months of work the Montrose Marlins are seeing their rewards.

The Marlins won last weekend’s Western Slope League Championship and had 14 swimmers qualify for the Colorado Swimming Long Course State Championships in Colorado Springs.

SATURDAY, JULY 26 Energy Fuels Mill files for county permit Energy Fuels Corporation filed a special use permit for their proposed Paradox Valley uranium mill on Friday with Montrose County Planning Director Steve White, according to Energy Fuels Environmental Manager Frank Filas.

Tipton names campaign coordinator Scott Tipton, presumptive Republican nominee for Colorado House District 58, named Troy Ard as his campaign coordinator on Friday.

SUNDAY, JULY 27 Rollin' on the river The Gunnison River rangers have enviable summer jobs.

They steward the stretch of waterway that meanders through the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. It's a landscape of ancient canyons and a river that sustains the myriad wildlife — golden eagles, beavers, mule deer, trout, the list goes on.

Fair week wraps up with livestock sale The fairgrounds were bustling Saturday. The stands in the show arena were full of business owners and area locals, ready to

New CEO evaluates areas to improve The new CEO of Montrose Memorial Hospital, Keith Broach, attended his first regular board meeting Monday. “We are looking at how we can better improve the bottom line while improving service levels,” Broach said.

a Montrose Police officer last week is being charged as an adult.

Kenneth Jackson, 17, was formally charged with several felonies, including first-degree assaultthreaten peace officer with weapon.

THURSDAY, JULY 31 H-2B visa cap met for first half of FY 2009 Employers needing seasonal workers before April of next year may be out of luck.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services department announced Wednesday that the cap for the first half of Fiscal Year 2009 has been met. The office said it has received enough petitions to reach the limit of 33,000 H-2B workers for the first half of next year.

Olathe gearing up for festival Since 1992, Olathe has held its annual Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. This year Country music star Travis Tritt is featured with a 120minute concert.

“The reason people come to the festival is the two C’s, the corn and the concert," said Bobbi Sale, special events director for the town of Olathe. "Everything else is just frosting.”

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1 West End representatives appointed The newly appointed West End Planning Advisory Committee (WEPAC) begins its duties in mid August, Montrose County announced Thursday. The board of county commissioners last week formally appointed five committee members, all of whom are West End residents: Kenny Heldman, Jack Lee, Nancy Moore, Liz Steele, and Martha Warner; and an alternate

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

July 9 - Marieke Douglas studies her next move while competing against Luke Stamy during the fourth annual Kid's Double Elimination Chess Tournament held at the Montrose Regional Library Tuesday afternoon.

Good news, bad news Today’s housing market is leaving an abundance of houses on the market and few sales to account for them.

The subprime meltdown continues and foreclosures rates on subprime adjustable-rate mortgages doubled in 2007, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

In Montrose County there were 21 foreclosures in May, 2008, that is 1 in every 796.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 30 CSAP results released The Colorado Department of Education released the Colorado Student Assessment Program test scores Tuesday and Montrose County School District scores mostly fall below the state’s average.

Adult charges filed in officer attack The youth suspected of attacking

member, Bob Hampton.

3 held in neighborhood fracas Two men and a minor boy were arrested after allegedly taking a disagreement with a Sherwood Drive resident to his neighborhood Saturday morning. Mario Peiro-Verias, José Soto-Gonzales and a teenager are accused of kicking in the door of a residence in the 1300 block of Sherwood, damaging a vehicle, and of assaulting a neighbor who investigated the noise.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 Region temperatures crack 100 Montrose's heat wave brought temperature highs near 101 degrees to the region yesterday.

The high temperature Montrose is experiencing is normal for the month of July, according to Joe Ramey, meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Grand Junction.

Pet stem-cell therapy comes to Montrose Local pet owners now have the option of stem-cell technology to help heal their soft tissue injured and arthritic animals. San Juan Veterinary Clinic recently began to offer Vet-Stem Regenerative Cell (VSRC) therapy, a procedure to isolate stem and regenerative cells from an animal’s own fat for use in therapeutic injections to injured tissue. Currently, the treatment is available to horses, dogs and cats.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 3 Competitors take down corn at Olathe sweet corn festival Competing singers and corn eaters, along with country music star Travis Tritt, entertained hundreds at this year’s Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. Although corn is undoubtedly the main attraction, the contest that challenges people to eat as much maize as possible attracted crowds too.

MONDAY, AUGUST 4 Olathe corn fest a hit The traffic started lining the streets of Olathe early Saturday morning. By noon, rows of cars were parked down the frontage and dirt roads along U.S. Highway 50 and town parking lots were filling up fast. In one day, the small town of Olathe, population just slightly more than 1,500, seemed busy as downtown Denver. Some people came from across the country, while others came from the local area — all came to enjoy their “body weight in corn,” festivities and music at the 2008 Olathe Sweet Corn Festival.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5 Neighbors protest road request Vacating a county road and replacing it with another will protect the Sinbad Ranch, its neighbors and access to public lands, ranch attorneys told commissioners. Its neighbors say otherwise, likening the road issue and related disputes to a B-rate Western.

Community asked to help in 'branding' contest Area residents have until Friday to supply their input into Montrose’s “branding” process through a community survey. The Montrose Visitors & Convention Bureau has been researching for several years how to properly market Montrose and establish a logo and strap line (tag line) that will set the area apart from its competitors vying for the same visitors. Last year, about 1,400 surveys were collected from visitors on what they thought of the area. The new survey asks locals.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6 Olathe ponders police options The discussions may make him “the most hated person in Olathe,” but Mayor Don Perkins said the time’s come to at least consider a law enforcement services contract with the Montrose sheriff. Perkins said the Olathe Police Department — funded at around $300,000 per year — is just one of many town departments being examined due to budgetary issues. Perkins confirmed the town has approached Montrose County Sheriff Rick Dunlap for talks, but said no decision has been made.

All Points Transit awarded grant A recent grant from Caring for Colorado will help with the merg-

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

July 16 - Montrose residents gathered on the front steps of the historic Montrose County Courthouse Tuesday evening for the first ever commemorative community photo.

er between Montrose and Delta counties’ senior transportation programs, according to All Points Transit. Among those awarded was All Points Transit, which received $26,000 to pay for increased operational costs.

All Points Transit, also known as Montrose County Senior Citizens Transportation, announced in June that it will expand to Delta County, merging the two services.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7 Olathe presidential candidate still in the race Independent presidential candidate Jonathan Allen said his team is rested and ready to make a “60-day race to the White House.” Allen, an Olathe resident, announced his candidacy for U.S. president in April. Since, he’s conducted market research and dealt with ballot access issues. He’s added new staff members and coordinators across the country. He’s created focus groups and has been “talking to average Americans.”

Insects, structural issues prompt long-term wildfire concerns Heightened wildfire danger posed by dying trees around Montrose may not compare to the high levels reached in other parts of the state, but officials are still watching potential threats specific to this area. Lawmakers on Tuesday warned that beetleravaged trees in parts of the Western Slope will eventually lead to a devastating, major wildfire; and that funding for mitigation should increase, the Associated Press reported.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 8 JetAway tenders settlement offer In a surprise settlement offer, JetAway Aviation said it would dismiss all pending federal claims against Montrose County concerning airport leases. It’s given the county roughly one month to sign off on the settlement offer, which it will withdraw Sept. 15.

Local teacher chosen for fellowship Through a federal “fellowship” program, local art teacher Cheri Isgreen is hopeful she’ll bring an understanding of policies to her associates and open lines of communication at the different levels in which they are made. Isgreen was among 25 teachers selected this summer by the United States secretary of education for a Teaching Ambassador Fellowship position with the U.S. Department of Education.

Council adopts six-year plan to improve city A plan for a series of capital improvement projects, ranging from public facility improvements to park space enhancements, was adopted by the Montrose City Council. Projects incorporated into the program include improving sidewalks and crosswalks for safety, city hall/annex rehabilitation, invasive species removal along the river corridor and improvements to the Montrose Museum Depot streetscape.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 Henderson calls for negotiations in JetAway suits Commissioner candidate Ron Henderson found himself on guard Friday, as the county's communication director accused him of a "political ploy." Henderson issued a press release Friday morning, accusing one of his opponents, incumbent Democrat Bill Patterson, of "dragging his heels" over airport litigation. Henderson cited a settlement offer tendered to the county Thursday

by JetAway Aviation.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 10 Young citizens honored for ideas to improve safety A pair of the city’s young citizens recently took their insight as neighborhood children and crafted ideas that will make Montrose a safer place. As part of the SixYear Capital Improvement program, Zhado Trumbo, 11, and Zhaman Trumbo, 12, each submitted ideas to enhance safety in key areas of the city. For their

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2008 KUDOS AWARD WINNERS The Montrose Area Merchants Association would like to recognize and congratulate all of the 2008 Customer Service Kudos Award winners.

Abe Cardenas April Mason - Office Depot Chun Wade - City Market (south branch) Rhonda Knox - City of Montrose Alan Bowers - Abel’s Ace Hardware Tracy Baldwin - US Bank Abe Cardenas - Standard Tire and Service Troy McReynolds - Affordable Auto Glass, Inc. Karen “Stiggy” Stigall - Camp Robber Ashley Kunke - Maurice's Sheila Harrison - Computer Business Solutions Ron Eden - Clean Choice Car Wash Lincoln Davis - Davis Service Center Pam Cook - Dr. Jay/Montrose Surgical Associates Vanessa Ellis - Montrose Bank - downtown Phuong Nguyen - The Coffee Trader Shirley Gross - Mz. Kitty's Emporium Ronda Watson - Camp Robber Patty Hiltibidal - Dollar General Kelly Cronenberg - City of Montrose Alvin Quint - Office Machine Sales and Technical Services Brian Wiseman - Wise Limo, LLC Randi Levine - Alpine Bank (East Main Street) Mark Blakeman, Sheila Blakeman - Montrose Auto Body

Betty Golle - Pomona Elementary School Cynthia Moreau - Walmart Stephanie Tolvo - Hartman Brothers, Inc. (medical) Belinda “Bee” Haddock - KUBC, KKXK, and The Blast! Radio Gabby Labertew - High Mesa Communications Dr. Colleen Modrell - Modrell Family and Sports Chiropractic Vickie Frasier - Walmart Wil Harmsen - Wells Fargo Mortgage Vicki Burd - Office Depot Antoinette Collins, Nancy Mendez, Lori Bachmann Alpine Bank East Margaret Johnson - The Daily Bread Margaret Musselmann - City Market (downtown) Dawn Eichert, Marsha Ross - Montrose Memorial Hospital Radiology Luis Alonso - McDonalds Main Street Mike Sorensen, Russell Barry, Jim Ivey - DMEA Jacque Gury - Camp Robber Rudy Martinez - Burger King Dee Barber - Sears

From these winners’ names, one name was drawn at random for the Customer Service Kudos Award Winner of the year and to receive $50 in MAMA Bucks. Congratulations to this year’s winner, Abe Cardenas. For more information about the Customer Service Kudos Award, please call Juli Messenger at 249-6360, or you may visit our Web site: (HYPERLINK "http://www.montrosemama.org" www.montrosemama.org).

Year in Review 2008 contributions — which were chosen to be a part of the program — the siblings received Key Citizen Awards and keys to the city Thursday. Zhado suggested the city put in a sidewalk between South Fourth Street and Centennial School. Zhaman submitted an idea for a sidewalk to connect South Fifth Street and Hillcrest Drive.

MONDAY, AUGUST 11 County approves discount prescription cards People needing prescription drugs have one more program to help them with costs. Montrose County Commissioners approved a discount card program last week to help consumers cope with high prices at the pharmacies. The card, which is sponsored by the National Association of Counties, offers discounts on the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs, according to Montrose County Health and Human Services.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 Casebolt pleads not guilty The remaining defendant in the state’s case against Elizabeth Mining and Development Corporation Inc. was on Monday set for trial, over defense objections.

Steven Casebolt was indicted roughly 16 months ago on several felonies related to racketeering, securities fraud and violations of the Colorado Hazardous Waste Act, over actions the Colorado Attorney General’s office alleges he undertook while operating EMDI in Montrose. Casebolt, who has always denied any wrongdoing, formally pleaded not guilty.

Changes to off-road vehicle use take effect before hunting season As hunting season approaches, officials are reminding the public to make note of changes to offroad vehicle use on public lands.

New and revised rules that govern this recreational source take effect this year. Changes include requiring instate registration for off-road and all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and requiring riders to stay on trails marked for use.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13 Mobile computers a boon to sheriff's office With help from taxpayers and the Montrose Police Department, the sheriff’s office was able to implement mobile data computers that will lead to cost and labor-savings. The computers are mounted into patrol vehicles, enabling road deputies to perform many data entry tasks, warrant checks and research electronically, instead of having to stop mid-shift to go back to the office, or rely on the dispatch center.

Welfare fraudster hit with $32K bill Twelve charges against a woman accused of welfare fraud were reduced to two Monday after a plea agreement was tendered in court. Nichole Muth, 35, must serve five years on supervised probation and pay $32,000 in restitution to the state of Colorado for falsely claiming benefits over what prosecutors say was a two-year period.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 14 Walsh wins Democratic primary Democrat Tim Walsh turned a two month campaign into a win in Tuesday's primary election.

Walsh won 707 votes — slightly more than 57 percent of votes cast in his race — to the 527 cast for Roger Brown.

Vista receives grant to expand program The staff at Vista Charter School, along with cooperation from local organizations, is placing prevention on the forefront when it comes to expelled, suspended and at-risk students. Vista administrator Coni Wilson was informed several weeks ago that the program was awarded an Expelled and At-Risk Student Services Grant from the Colorado Department of Education in the amount of $220,000.

Fewer drivers on the road, less funding for road projects Fewer drivers traveled Colorado's roads this year compared to the same period last year, based on figures released by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The new data showed a steady downward trend — for an eighth month straight — of Americans driving. Although fewer cars on the road may mean more efficient travel and less pollution, the drop in revenues tied to gasoline consumption also means less funding for transportation projects.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 Flames push residents out Spreading flames from an out of control burn led to evacuations in the Vista San Juan subdivision.

gulfed upon arrival. Inside, they found a horse, two miniature horses and a colt, all dead.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 17 Cops aim to end drunk driving Failure to plan ahead when it comes to end-of-summer partying could send you to the slammer. Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs also threatens the public's safety, officers and the Colorado Department of Transportation said in announcing an 18-day DUI crackdown.

Businesses concerned with city's sign code and enforcement Changes made to improve Montrose's appearance through a revised sign code are getting mixed reviews from businesses. At least one business owner said he's relocating to Grand Junction in part because of the changes, and some local outlets may seek amendments to the code. Others have expressed support of the code's positive impacts.

MONDAY, AUGUST 18 Unavoidable costs Back-to-school expenses usually generate thoughts of new clothes, pencils and notebooks.

However, parents are finding

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

SWAT trots out new vehicle In 2006, SWAT officers in full gear rolled up in a private pick-up truck to a drug bust. On other operations, officers have walked back to the police station. Gone are those days. The Montrose Special Weapons and Tactics team now has its own delivery vehicle, thanks to the Montrose Fire Protection District, donations and nearly 200 hours of volunteer work. The fire district donated an old ambulance, which SWAT and other volunteers spent two months stripping down, painting, and retrofitting the interior for SWAT purposes.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16 New fire kills five horses Five horses died in an early-morning blaze Friday on Kinikin Road.

The fire also led to the death of a sixth horse, which escaped the barn but was too severely burned to survive. The fire was spotted at 5:20 a.m. Friday, at the home of Elio Palacios. Montrose Fire Protection District crews found the open-ended horse barn fully en-

school fees during registration can also add up. As students get older, parents realize school registration isn’t as easy as picking up the phone to let the school know their child is returning.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 19 Baby found dead near campsite An infant girl died during a family camping trip, but foul play is not suspected, the sheriff’s office said. Brooklin Rae Estep, age 2 months, was found dead in her family tent at Buckeye Reservoir Sunday morning. Her parents discovered her unresponsive and not breathing, Montrose County Sheriff’s spokeswoman Bobbie McCoid said.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 Commcorr supporters push for support Supporters of a Montrosebased community corrections facility intend to make their case to all boards of county commission within the Seventh Judicial District. They are seeking support from the county governments of Hinsdale, Ouray, San Miguel, Delta, Gunnison and Montrose for the construction of a facility here.

Voorhis fills president position The Colorado Association of School Executives has expanded

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August 13 - Montrose resident C. Joseph Vigil fills out voter information paperwork before voting Tuesday afternoon at Friendship Hall. Vigil has collected stickers from each past election he has participated in.

its reach. School district Superintendent George Voorhis, who is also the newly appointed president of the organization, said he’s making sure the Western Slope is involved in state discussions.

CASE is an organization of more than 2,000 school administrators who work to improve student achievement by promoting and building education leadership in Colorado schools, according to its Web site.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 School district population growth down As the new school year begins, the district is seeing a major decrease in population growth for the first time in several years. The district estimated a 50-student increase in enrollment for the 2008-09 school year, a dramatic decline compared to previous years' growth. Since 2003, the district has seen an enrollment spike of more than 120 students. The highest increase came in 2006-07 school year when enrollment reached 6,174, a surge of 249 students from the previous year.

'Sophisticated' pot grows busted Two major — but unrelated — pot grows were shut down Monday, task force agents said. The agent said the basement at a Delta home occupied by Matthew Schneider and another man, still being sought, was dedicated to growing marijuana plants. At the Hotchkiss residence of Harold Wiseman Jr. and Harold Wiseman III, agents reported finding grow equipment and plants in a large greenhouse. Both sites were replete with expensive lighting, ventilation and watering equipment worth thousands of dollars, the task force said.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22 1 of 2 burglary suspects collared One of two burglary suspects wanted in connection with Sawpit-area thefts was arrested in Commerce City. Michael Alvarado, 21, of Montrose, was discovered sleeping in a van at a relative’s home there Aug. 14, San Miguel County Sheriff Bill Masters said Thursday.

Colorado Supreme Court denied their petition for review. John Cossick and Mary Wood had argued Montrose County failed to follow land use rules and also abused its discretion when it approved the Ponds Edge subdivision on 58.75 Road. They sought an injunction in 2006, which the local district court denied.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 Cops seek police impersonator Police are seeking a man they say impersonated an officer and stopped a teenage girl for bogus reasons. The incident occurred at about 8:30 p.m. Thursday in the 400 block of Eighth Street. Montrose Police Chief Tom Chinn said the man told the young driver he needed to search her for drugs. He performed a pat-down search on the girl, then got back into his dark-colored sedan and drove away.

Council mulling air service proposal Montrose City Council has yet to decide whether an air-services funding proposal will go on the ballot. The Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization is seeking increased lodging taxes to help generate sustainable funds for the organization, a regional nonprofit that pursues air service for the area through revenue guarantee programs.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 24 JetAway settlement offer open for public discussion Montrose County will publicly discuss a proposed settlement agreement tendered by JetAway Aviation that could resolve federal actions filed over airport business. The proposal is to be discussed at an Aug. 27 meeting.

MONDAY, AUGUST 25 Fuel cost crunch As the school buses roll out this week, so do the dollars. Around the country, school districts are struggling with the increase in energy prices. This includes fuel for buses and energy used within the schools. Montrose school district buys its fuel in bulk, getting it from the best bidder. It also contracts with First Student for its buses and their drivers. In the 2006-07 school year, the cost of

Airport hosts Chinook helicopters Montrose Regional Airport hosted four hefty guests this past week — Chinook MH-47 helicopters, along with 50 of the crafts’ crew members from the U.S. Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

The 160th, from Fort Campbell, Ky., was using the airport as part of its high-altitude training maneuvers.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 26 'Bad circumstances' claimed teen A Utah teen who died on a Montrose-based wilderness outing was delirious and in evident pain for days prior, recently unsealed documents indicate. Caleb Jensen, 15, died of a staph infection while participating in an Alternative Youth Adventures Colorado program in Montrose County May 2, 2007. Indictments alleging child abuse, negligent homicide and manslaughter were handed down against two companies and three men this July.

Pilot program to help freshman Being one of more than 1,000 students walking through the doors of a high school can be intimidating. For freshmen, it can be easy to lose their way academically. Montrose High School is taking a proactive approach to eliminate its high freshman failing rates by introducing a learning method called, Freshman Academy.

MHS QB out for six weeks with broken bone Montrose’s senior quarterback Kirk English suffered a broken bone in his right hand during last Friday night’s game against Glenwood Springs. English is projected to be out six weeks.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27 Creating a federally funded health center A group of community members have come together to bridge gaps in health care for uninsured and underserved area residents.

Representatives from the Montrose Health Partnership came before the Montrose Memorial Hospital board to discuss bringing a Federally Funded Community Health Center (FQHC) to the eastern part of Montrose County.

City council pushes for open government Hoping to increase citizen access to local government, the city council has agreed to hold a public comment period at its regular meetings. Starting on Thursday, Sept. 4, a “Call for Public Comment” session on

Sun sets on Main in Motion One of Montrose's downtown trademarks, Main in Motion, came to a close Thursday. Since June, residents and visitors have wandered Main Street and beyond in Montrose Thursday evenings talking with neighbors, enjoying live music, vendors and food.

State high court declines review request Neighbors fighting a subdivision for more than three years ran out of options Monday, when the

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS August 15 - Montrose Fire Department captain Steve Bush walks in front of a wall of fire at the Thurston residence off of East Oak Grove Road Thursday afternoon.

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diesel for route buses was $135,842, she said. That cost increased by 23 percent in 200708 to $167,953. For the 2008-09 budget, the district increased fuel costs and utilities by 15 percent.

Hagan snags Salazar endorsements U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar has endorsed Montrose state house candidate Noelle Hagan for the District 58 seat.

August 3 - Olathe Sweet Corn festival volunteers toss sweet corn into a huge fire roaster Saturday. Around 75,000 ears of corn were brought in for the annual event.

The fire started at a residence in the county, off of East Oak Grove Road. Neighbors living directly behind a field of sage and grass that ignited said they thought someone was burning trash despite afternoon winds.

January 4, 2009 13

Year in Review 2008

14 January 4, 2009 said. Marcello Youell, 28, of Montrose, reportedly also admitted to ingesting cocaine before being pulled over.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30 Rec District OKs center expansion More recreational space could come to Montrose by this time next year, following the Recreation District Board’s approval to expand facilities. The board OK’d plans to build onto the Aquatic Center in the first phase of the Indoor Recreational Facility project — a scaled back version of original expansion plans.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

August 31 - Commissioner Gary Ellis photographed at the offices of the Daily Press.

nonagenda items will be held at the regular council meeting.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28 Bilberry pins hopes on Obama When Barack Obama accepts his party’s nomination at the Democratic National Convention, delegate Jayne Bilberry from Montrose will be in attendance hoping Obama will demonstrate his passion and plans for the middle class. Not only will Bilberry be among the 75,000 or so in INVESCO Field at Mile High, she also has made arrangements for about 15 of her hometown friends and associates from the county central Democratic Party to share in the historical moment.

Public offers input on FBO controversy Applause erupted frequently during public comment taken concerning JetAway Aviation's settlement offer. While many speakers urged Montrose County to reject the proposal, calling the off-airport business a "bully," others said the county hadn't fairly presented the facts.

Hops introduced as cash crop in Montrose A new crop has been introduced to Montrose, creating excitement among the micro brewing community. Wednesday was the first harvest at San Juan Hop Farms. About 25 people gathered at the farm west of Montrose, spending the day harvesting the flower cones. Though this year’s hop yield was small, about 1,300 pounds per acre, next year the vine plants will move to a new home.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 Obama accepts party's nod; says he'll cut taxes, end oil dependence Surrounded by an enormous, adoring crowd, Barack Obama promised a clean break from the “broken politics in Washington and the failed policies of George W. Bush” Thursday night as he embarked on the final lap of his audacious bid to become the nation’s first black president.

Drugs recovered from man's car More than 12 ounces of suspected marijuana were found in a car driven by a habitual traffic offender, the Colorado State Patrol

McCain's veep choice is historic, hardly known In two short years, Sarah Palin moved from small-town mayor with a taste for moose burgers to the governor’s office and now — making history — to John McCain’s side as the first female running mate on a Republican presidential ticket.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 31 Commissioner, cancer survivor urges men to be checked Gary Ellis used his faith and modern medicine to battle a killer. Now, the Montrose resident and county commissioner is telling his story in hopes of saving other men from prostate cancer before it's too late. Ellis thinks there should be more awareness of the No. 2 killer of American men, which claims 30,000 lives per year. He wants the awareness to approach that of breast cancer, where survivors "race for the cure."

Man's body found in Montrose canal The body of a man was found Saturday morning in a canal, said Dr. Thomas Canfield, Montrose County coroner. The body of 42-year-old Oliverio SilvaGutierrez was found immersed near the Eckerly headgate in Selig Canal off 6200 Road, Canfield said. The cause and manner of death is undetermined, pending an autopsy.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Labor Day feature highlights locals A BLM planner, a state patrolman, a shop owner and a former military man are highlighted in separate holiday features as they reflect on their professions.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Crowds come out for historic annual event Locals and visitors filled the stands at the Ouray County Fairgrounds in Ridgway for a historic annual event — the Ouray County Rodeo. Horse events have been a part of Ouray County’s history dating back to 1892 when funds were raised to complete a race track. During the Labor Day weekend, this tradition continued.

Young attends Republican National Convention Mark Young, chairman of the Montrose County Republican Party, is an alternate delegate at the Republican nation Convention in St. Paul, Minn. The Colorado Delegation consists of 46 delegates and 43 alternates. The delegation has breakfast each morning together.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Pilots OK after rough landing Two pilots escaped injury when their jet went off the runway at Telluride Regional Airport Mon-

day, the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office reported. In a news release, the SMCSO said the men’s Citation Encore veered off the runway during landing and stopped thousands of feet from their touchdown point.

Canal death likely accidental A Montrose man found dead in the Selig Canal likely died as the result of an accidental drowning, the coroner said. Oliverio SilvaGutierrez, 42, was found submerged near the Eckerly headgate off of 62.00 Road last Saturday.

Suspect tased into submission What started as an alleged municipal code violation — a simple open container of alcohol — ended with slight injuries to a deputy and the tasing of a suspect, twice. Police said Gildardo Armenta-Diaz knocked down a police officer and failed to comply with orders before being tased.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Weather dulls some wildland fires, sparks others Rainy weather over the Labor Day weekend dampened ongoing "fire use" fires. However, the blazes have still not been called out, officials said. Three "fire use" fires, including the West Elk and Albin blazes, were further contained when a storm blew through Montrose and Delta counties. The Albin fire, located roughly six miles north/northeast of Norwood, is still at about 420 acres. The West Elk fire, which began in July, has been confined to about 160 acres. Stormy weather sparked some brief, lightning caused fires on the West End of Montrose but those were quickly extinguished.

18 measures to appear on Colorado ballots The secretary of state’s office says the deadline for certifying ballot initiatives has ended, with 18 questions set for inclusion on ballots this fall. The questions include a measure on declaring a fertilized egg a person, a proposed ban on affirmative action in state hiring and at public universities, and a proposal to tweak the Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights to allow excess tax funds to be used for education.

MAMA seeks feedback on sign code Businesses are being asked to comment on whether their operations have been affected by the city's sign code, which underwent some changes early this year. The Montrose Area Merchants Association (MAMA) is surveying merchants to find out whether the current code has had impacts on local businesses and if so, how.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 McCain accepts party's nomination, vows change John McCain, a POW turned political rebel, vowed Thursday night to vanquish the “constant partisan rancor” that grips Washington as he launched his fall campaign for the White House.

“Change is coming,” he promised the roaring Republican National Convention and a primetime television audience.

Private info put on public site Your private information might not be so private if it is part of a federal public record. Thursday, after concerns were raised about Social Security numbers being dis-

Montrose’s first and only Pediatric Dental Specialist is now on board. Derren E. Tippets, DMD and his crew provide the specialty care your child deserves while helping him/her overcome their fear of visiting the dentist.

We provide a “Kid Friendly” atmosphere with an arcade, movies, a real pirate ship & more.

Please stop by for an office tour or call for an appointment to discuss your child’s needs.

• Accepting new patients • Emergencies welcome • Most insurance accepted • Conscious Sedation

100 Tessitore Court Suite C • Montrose 970-240-8694 kids@treasuredteeth.com

played in online copies of federal tax liens on file in Montrose County, the clerk’s office began removing all such images from its Web site.

Airport funding proposal to appear on general election ballot Voters will decide in November whether to fund the guarantee air service program with additional tax on lodging, restaurants and ground transportation. The Montrose City Council on Thursday approved a proposal to put the ballot initiative forward to voters.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Alternate suspect theory allowed in murder case Lionel Lopez can advance an alternate suspect theory in the 2003 murder of Irene Trujillo, the court decided. Trujillo’s body was found in June 2003, a few months after she was reported missing. She had been shot, crushed, burned post-mortem and partly encased in concrete in a hole at her family’s stone quarry business. Lopez, a former employee, was reportedly the last person seen with her.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Uncompahgre Plateau's native seed program cultivates state and national recognition Thinking big is part of Jim Free and Pam Motley's job. As technical coordinator and education coordinator, respectively, of the Uncompahgre Plateau Project (UP), their work takes them from an expansive outdoor classroom to interaction with multiple government agencies, local farmers and the public. The largest component of the Uncompahgre Plateau Project is the Native Plant Program, which is covering new ground in the propagation of plant species indigenous to the area, a program which Free and Motley have been actively involved with over the past several years.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Recognizing excellence For helping breathe new life into the Elks Civic building, one of downtown’s historic structures, the city was awarded a 2008 Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence. The project to rehabilitate the circa-1926 building garnered the Best Adaptive Reuse honor, the Colorado Community Revitalization Association (CCRA) announced.

Annual event benefits boys and girls club More than half of the Black Canyon Boys & Girls Club funding comes generously from the local community, and those residents came out Sunday to show their support. The second annual Creek Palooza at Canyon Creek Bed & Breakfast was full of music, drinks, food and sunshine.

Club board members, volunteers, staff and community members were there to show their support and raise money for the club.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

August 29 - Members of the audience watch as Democratic Party Presidential candidate Barack Obama speaks to a capacity crowd Thursday evening at Invesco Field in Denver.

varado of posing as a house painter and breaking into homes in the Sawpit community back in July. Two homes were reported robbed of jewelry, cash and electronics, the value of which exceeded $20,000.

Heated comment after JetAway presentation With just five days left for Montrose County to sign a settlement proposal with JetAway Aviation, angry residents urged its rejection with calls for “tar and feathers.” The remarks were made during a forum called so JetAway could present its side of issues arising from anti trust litigation and other federal complaints it filed against the county. JetAway, for its part, spoke of misinformation about its intent and hostilities. Other citizens who spoke were in favor of settling the ongoing litigation and felt the deck had been stacked against JetAway.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Police warn of 'car shopping' thefts When can "car shopping" result in felony charges? When it involves "shopping" for valuables from cars belonging to other people. The Montrose Police said more than a dozen such incidents have been reported in the past month, with four having occurred between last Friday and Tuesday.

School-based clinic for Olathe under way It was almost a year ago that the Northside Child Health Center started supplying both mental and physical health services to Montrose's youth and their families. Now, the school district is bringing those services to the Olathe community. An Olathe school-based community health center, stationed at the town's elementary school, is in the works.

The town of Olathe, Montrose Memorial Hospital, Center for

feeding” criminals Social Security numbers, despite last week’s removal of federal tax lien documents for the same reason.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Festival hits record admission A record number of voices echoed off the mountains of Telluride this weekend. Their shouts rumbled alongside the tunes of an eclectic lineup of artists. The 15th annual Telluride Blues and Brews festival saw a record crowd of 9,000 people, as Saturday’s show was sold out. Entertaining the masses were about 20 different bands and an array of microbrews providing an unlimited tranquility for one’s palate.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Bust nets cash, guns, 3 pounds of meth Back-to back drug busts in Delta and Montrose landed at least six people in the slammer late last week. But there was nothing typical about either operation. In Delta, the potential for violence from suspects allegedly equipped with a “sophisticated” video surveillance system and several firearms forced agents to wait until David Castro and his wife, Chante Gay, left their Apricot Lane residence Thursday.

The couple was arrested on a traffic stop. Seventh Judicial District Meth/Drug Task Force Agent Jim Fuller said that in addition to a small quantity of methamphetamine, officers recovered thousands in cash — including some that was stashed in a baby’s bed.

The Montrose bust was notable because of the quantity of meth reportedly found: approximately three pounds, at an estimated street value exceeding $200,000.

First Democratic presidential candidate to visit area since JFK The West’s growing influence on national politics brought the pres-

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Shooter ordered to prison Gilberto Aguilar didn’t just hurt Yvette Vigil when he fired his gun last October. He hurt Vigil’s children — and his own — the victim’s sister said, when Aguilar was sentenced to three years in prison for felony menacing. Vigil was near a North First Street parking lot, where a crowd of other people had also gathered last Oct. 28. Aguilar fired a .45 handgun from a vehicle. The bullet hit the ground, then ricocheted and struck Vigil in the thigh.

Hospital interviews management firms Montrose Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees interviewed three management firms Monday —their decision will come later and influence the choosing of a new CEO. Six board members, along with hospital staff and one board candidate, Richard Harding, stuck it out through three long interviews Monday. The board listened to what each company offers as far as education, management services, structure and cost.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 2 sentenced in home invasion A “home invasion” last year netted probation for two of three defendants. Joseph Ghini and Michael Walker Jr. were each sentenced to 30 months’ probation under plea agreements. A third man, Joshua Boots, is set for a hearing Sept. 29. At sentencing, District Attorney Myrl Serra characterized Ghini as a bit player in the incident on Chipeta Drive last November. He said a fourth man was the instigator, and claimed to have been “jumped” and robbed when he convinced Ghini and the others to go to the home.

Second Sawpit burglary suspect turns self in The second suspect in Sawpitarea home break-ins turned himself in at the urging of relatives, San Miguel County Sheriff Bill Masters said. Tyler Carr, 20, called from Montrose to arrange his surrender last week. He is suspected along with Michael Al-

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

August 30 - Defensive coaches Steve Gaber, left, and Eric Handke high-five each other after the Montrose defense shut down the Piedra Vista offense late in the second quarter.

Mental Health, Community Dental Clinic and Montrose County School District Re-1J are all contributing.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Human-caused outages led to at least $65,000 in damage in 2007 Over the past five years, cars crashing into utility equipment were the leading cause of power outages around Montrose and Delta. These accidents — which comprised about 18 percent of outages — topped a list that the Delta-Montrose Electric Association (DMEA) released.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Affordable housing project expands The second phase of the Sunshine Peak apartments, an affordable housing project located on San Juan Avenue, is projected to be completed in July 2009, officials said. The bright, multi-colored affordable housing complex is situated right off the bypass road, near the fairgrounds.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 More electronic records pulled Anyone researching documents kept by the county clerk will have to show up in person to see them. All online images of documents were yanked, starting Thursday after further concerns the clerk’s Web site was “spoon-

idential race to the Western Slope in a rare way Monday, when Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama stopped in Grand Junction on a tour to win over Colorado voters.

Obama’s visit to the Western Slope — the first in 12 years for a presidential candidate — signals state’s importance in the race for president.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Economic slowdown prompts $2 million city budget cut In light of anticipated declines in tax revenue, the city of Montrose is proposing a scaled-back budget for next year. The city's draft budget for all funds has been cut from roughly $50 million in 2008 to about $48 million in 2009. Projections for sales and use tax are down about 4 percent, as of July, compared to the 2008 budget.

A grand day for touring Automobile enthusiasts were in for a treat as approximately 75 vintage sports and racing cars participating in the 20th Annual Colorado Grand touring rally traveled through Montrose en route to Durango. The 1,000-mile world class event started in Vail yesterday morning.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Montrose pilot searching for missing son

Year in Review 2008 Montrose pilot and sheriff’s posse member Mark Young has logged hundreds of hours searching for missing persons.

Today, he and other members of the Civil Air Patrol began searching for his son, Mark Young Jr. The 21-year-old University of Northern Colorado student, who also goes by “Junior,” was last seen Tuesday morning, headed to a class in American constitutional history.

Waste facility in Montrose County still in works The completion of a much needed septage waste receiving facility for Montrose County is taking longer than expected, as officials tie loose ends. The facility, which is viewed as a critical step toward accounting for the county's septage, would be paid for by the county, but managed by the city on its property near the treatment plant.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Missing man's truck found Searchers found missing college student Mark Young Jr.'s truck Thursday at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, his father, Mark Young Sr. said. The elder Young told the Daily Press in a brief phone call he spotted the truck, but not his son.

Ute celebration starts today A three-day celebration of Ute Indian culture begins today and runs through Sunday in Delta.

The 14th Annual Council Tree Pow Wow & Cultural Festival takes place at Confluence Park.

More than 100 years ago the Delta area was the homeland of the Ute Indian people. The 200year-old "Ute Council Tree," a historical meeting place of the Ute Tribes, is still standing across the Gunnison River from the current site of the festival in Confluence Park. The Pow Wow is a chance for everyone to share in the culture.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Father: Body that of missing student Mark Young said there is “no question” the body removed from the Black Canyon was that of his son, Mark Jr., although official identification was pending.

“You’re not supposed to have to bury your child,” Young said.

“We’re all doing the best we can do.”

Federal judge denies JetAway antitrust motion JetAway Aviation's motion to lift a stay on its federal antitrust proceedings was denied Thursday.

JetAway is suing Montrose County over its operation of the Montrose Regional Airport.

Royalty Olathe High School's Andrew Grinnan and Monica Padilla were crowned king and queen for the 2008-2009 school year during halftime of the Pirates’ game against Roaring Fork at Wilson Field.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Attitude is everything Elaine Gilham's positive outlook has gotten her through life's most challenging times. However, at 82, her optimistic view is being tested once more. It was a typical morning in May 2007. Gilham was getting dressed when she noticed something was not right — there was an unusual lump in her right breast.

She set up an appointment with

her family doctor, Dr. Michael Brezinsky. After several more doctor visits, Gilham discovered she had breast cancer. From 2000 to 2004, about 129 Colorado women were diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

On July 7, 2007, Gilham had a mastectomy — her right breast was removed. Though losing a part of one's "womanhood" can be devastating, Gilham kept her spirits high. She said that at her age, losing her breast "didn't make much difference." As she makes her way through more treatment, that positive attitude and outlook still remains.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Group inquires about racetrack Horse racing has always been a part of Montrose County’s history. However, for several years the Montrose County Fairground’s racetrack has been neglected — one group of local horsemen and women want to change that. The Black Canyon Racing Association started up again after becoming inactive when racing ceased at the fairgrounds in 2002. Members of the group are local horse people interested in bringing back the historic event and uniting the community with family entertainment.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Coffman: Montrose election ready A lengthy ballot, a critical presidential election and anticipated high voter turnout mean one thing for Mike Coffman, time to hit the road. Coffman, Colorado’s secretary of state, came to Montrose Monday as part of his check on all counties’ election readiness.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Ethanol station opens in Montrose Adding to the growth of E-85 ethanol stations across the state, Montrose welcomed a new site Tuesday. The refueling site, located at Western Convenience at 938 S. Townsend Ave., is Montrose’s first, according to the Colorado Corn Growers Association. The station sells E85, a fuel blend composed of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

New access control plan in the works Residents got a look Tuesday at what changes to expect if Montrose’s access control plan for South Townsend goes into effect. The city and county of Montrose are working with the Colorado Department of Transportation to manage traffic growth along the town’s main thoroughfare and areas of primary commercial development.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Fire closes gym The Colorado Bureau of Investigation was probing the cause of an early-morning fire that gutted the Montrose Athletic Club. The agency's accelerant-sniffing dog arrived Wednesday afternoon, along with investigators who are assisting the Montrose Fire Protection District and Montrose Police Department.

Flames erupted at the Apollo Road business at 12:43 a.m.

Wednesday. Club owner Mead Serra got the news when a sheriff's deputy pounded on his door at 1 a.m.

State releases economic forecast Montrose County, along with the

Western Slope, continues to be less affected by the national economic downturn, according to recently released economic reports.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Brawl sends 3 to jail, hospital An evening brouhaha between two peer groups sent three people to the hospital and three adults to jail.

A look into the future High school students geared up for their future Wednesday during the annual college fair. The Colorado Council of High School/College Relations presented students with an opportunity to explore dozens of state schools, along with specialized colleges and out-of state universities. The Montrose High School cafeteria was filled with parents and students exploring options and asking questions of representatives.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Woman accused of stealing from clinic A former Montrose County Sheriff’s Office employee who won a settlement on her sexual harassment complaint is now bound for court. Chrystal McClain, formerly Chrystal Black, is accused of creating and then using a shadow bank account to spend Olathe Medical Clinic money on herself.

She was arrested Sept. 16 and has since been charged with two counts of theft of $20,000 or more, according to the Montrose Combined Courts.

Montrose knocks off champs The Montrose Indians football team started the night with the intent to beat the defending 4A state champion Pueblo West Cyclones. They ended the night pounding the Cyclones 34-6, a water cooler poured over Montrose assistant coach Erik Handke's head and a locker room dance celebration.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 A special program, a special person Joel Forrest is proud to be her assistant coach, but much more so to be her husband. Observing Shane Forrest as Montrose High head volleyball coach, he says, “Her capacity for work leaves me shaking my head. She’s a counselor at Columbine Middle School who is also in charge of the student mentoring program, so during the first week of volleyball, she’ll start practice at 6:30 in the morning, go to school for registration, come home at 9 p.m. and work on the mentoring program until 1 a.m. and then start again the next day.” Next Tuesday night will be the second annual “Pink Out” event at the Indians’ home match against Central.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Share Fest brings community together Share Fest 2008 will kick off at 7 a.m. Saturday at Centennial Plaza. After coffee, juice, muffins, music and a devotional, volunteers from area churches and the community will roll up their sleeves to work on a food, coat and blood drive, as well as community service projects including painting, yard work, and minor home repairs. According to Douglas Kiesewetter, Montrose Share Fest chairman, the organization expects about 1,200 volunteers from Montrose-Olathe churches and the

community this year. $700B bailout agreement reached Congressional leaders and the White House agreed Sunday to a $700 billion rescue of the ailing financial industry after lawmakers insisted on sharing spending controls with the Bush administration. The biggest U.S. bailout in history won the tentative support of both presidential candidates and goes to the House for a vote.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Arson suspected in gym fire Details remain sketchy, but investigators are calling the fire that gutted the Montrose Athletic Club arson. The Montrose Police Department said in a press release the blaze, which broke out at the gym on Apollo Road early Sept. 24, is considered arson and the investigation is proceeding accordingly.

AYA defendants contest probable cause Attorneys for defendants in last year’s Alternative Youth Adventures camp death demanded a determination that probable cause exists to back up grand jury indictments. Attorney Colleen Scissors additionally entered a not guilty plea for the corporate defendants Monday, while Dru Nielsen said the indictment against her client, wilderness EMT Ben Askins, was deficient due to erroneous testimony. Askins is accused of felony child abuse resulting in death and manslaughter in the May 2, 2007 death of Caleb Jensen.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1 Blast destroys home Les Cook was out in the field when he heard the rental house he owned explode. He couldn't believe what he saw next: his tenant, Lewie Willson, emerging from the rubble.

The Montrose Fire Protection District said a propane leak caused the home to explode, after Willson lit a cigarette.

Officers cleared in shooting The district attorney Myrl Serra found Officer Giovanni Mendoza fired at a teen burglary suspect out of necessity. As part of standard procedure for officer-involved shootings, a critical incident team was convened to investigate the incident.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 Bill earmarks money for local

January 4, 2009 15 contracts From thousands of miles away, two local businesses, Montrose's Polystrand and Delta's Weatherport, are helping to keep fellow Americans safe with military contracts.

President George W. Bush signed H.R. a bill into law that provides funding for the federal government into 2009 and includes money for projects involving the two area businesses.

VICTIM: Willson serious but stable, daughter-in-law says After the house he was renting exploded, Willson miraculously crawled out of the rubble.

He was flown to the burn unit in Greeley where relatives say he is in stable, but serious condition, with second degree burns to his hands and face.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 Candidates peppered with JetAway questions Ongoing contentious airport litigation cropped up frequently during Wednesday’s commissioner candidates forum. Brent Wallace, employed at JetAway Aviation, is running unaffiliated against Bill Patterson, a Democrat, and Ron Henderson, a Republican.

Commissioner hopefuls also addressed economy and growth issues.

District 58 candidates field questions Candidates for Colorado State District 58, Noelle Hagan of Montrose and Scott Tipton of Cortez met Wednesday evening at the Montrose Pavilion to present their positions and answer selected questions from the audience.

Questions ranged from energy development and campaign financing to the candidates’ respective positions on the 2nd Amendment right to bear arms.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 Clerk: Ballot changes to have little impact Colorado’s ballot got a little shorter this week, when proponents withdrew proposed Amendments 53, 55, 56 and 57.

Mail out ballots will be mailed Monday. It’s too late to remove the proposals from the ballots. In other words, you can cast a vote on the measures, but it won’t count.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 Sheriff snags federal grant For the second year in a row, the Montrose County Sheriff's Office snagged a federal grant to

help offset the costs of housing inmates who are in the county illegally.

Male breast cancer Daniel Schaller thought the small seed-like lumps under his left nipple would eventually go away — he needed them to. With no insurance, he just let it be.

In 2007, 45.7 million Americans were uninsured according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Schaller was part of that group and his lack of insurance deterred him from fighting his male breast cancer earlier.

Though male breast cancer cases only account for 1 percent of all breast cancers, approximately 450 men died from it in 2007, according to the ACS. MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 Hospice cuts go into effect A federal regulation that will cut hospice Medicare reimbursement rates will affect Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado.

The cuts have significant implications, especially with the economic downturn, The CEO called the cuts “very serious.” They will require “more diligence and more active fundraising.

Research center to have grand opening soon For 27 years the Fore-Kin Trails Genealogical Society has been collecting and preserving historic documents and records of Montrose County.

Now, they have a home for them and can make them available to the public; the Montrose Genealogy Center will be located at 300 North Cascade, Suite C-3.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7 Defendant seeks dismissal of charges in AYA camp death One more defendant who stands accused in the death of Caleb Jensen disputes the grand jury indictment against him.

Dr. Keith Hooker appeared in court Monday, where attorney Stephens Dooley requested a continuance, pending decision on his motion to dismiss the indictment as defective.

MHS golf on top at state Montrose took the team lead after the first day of Class 4A state boys golf tournament with 221 strokes.

The Indians’ Justin Russell sat tied for second with Brenden Beeg of D’Evelyn, four shots off the pace.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

October 11 - Members of the Montrose High School Indian football team cheer from the top Tower 1 an engine with the Montrose Fire Department on Main Street Friday afternoon during the 2008 homecoming parade.

29 ye in bu ars siness

from Mental Health Tips For a Better New Year

Tips from the Center for Mental Health to reduce stress and anxiety over the economy: 1. Turn off the evening news and spend quality time with your loved ones.

2. Focus on the people who matter most in your life.

3. Focus on your health.The relationship between physical health and mental health is important.

4. Find the right balance in your diet and get exercise and a good night’s sleep.

5. Don’t make rash decisions. Don’t react immediately to bad news.

6. Don’t stress over the things that you can’t control, like the stock market and the cost of living. Instead, focus on the things you can control. Cut expenses, postpone that vacation, or eat out a little less. Use the chance to find things to do with your loved ones that bring you closer and cost less, such as a family game night.

7. Don’t be afraid to seek help. If the stress and anxiety becomes too much, find someone you can talk to. Seek professional help if necessary.

Providing Help, Hope & Healing

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109 N. Townsend Ave. Montrose Colorado

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Year in Review 2008

16 January 4, 2009

dents, many who are veterans or have family members who have served, gathered around to listen to VFW members talk and read stories.

Mrs. Colorado International Brenda Baecker joined the VFW members in their visit. She grew up in a military family and her son has been to Iraq and Afghanistan.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14 School hosts green open house Passage Charter School is setting an example and trying to motivate a “green” trend in the community.

The school is hosting a green open house to demonstrate how the school and its students have changed methods of living.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

November 9 - Montrose High School’s Mac Alexander (3) puts the hurt to Niwot’s Matt Perry in third quarter action Saturday afternoon.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8 MHS golf takes third at state Montrose finished third in the boys Class 4A state golf championship.

The Indians shot a 232 on the second day with an overall team score of 453, just behind D'Evelen (439) and Greeley Central (446), at the par-70, 6,505-yard Yampa Valley Golf Course in Craig.

Indian Justin Russell placed fifth individually overall with a combined two-day score of 146.

Volunteers roll up their sleeves to help others About 1,200 volunteers braved rainy, chilly weather Saturday to help with the third annual Montrose Share Fest.

According to Share Fest chairman Doug Kiesewetter, there were 135 projects this year.

Volunteers included families, children, teenagers, individuals, retirees, schools and churches. It was all about community helping community.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9 Dead witness complicates murder case Lionel Lopez implicated himself in the 2003 death of Irene Trujillo, a sheriff’s investigator alleged in testimony Wednesday. But defense attorneys wanted Lt. George Jackson’s evidence barred from trial because it came from a witness who has since died. Jackson had received information regarding Lopez’s involvement in Irene Trujillo’s death.

Enrollment increase double what expected Montrose County School District Re-1J expected slightly fewer students this year than was reported in last week's enrollment count.

"We have 134 additional students," said Linda Gann, district spokeswomen. The count brings the district population to 6,519.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 Montrose’s south merchants get organized A group of south Montrose merchants decided they need to organize themselves.

They asked MAMA to help them organize a committee much like downtown’s Heart of the City committee to bring more business and focus on southern businesses.

Local business donates 1,000 kits to event A national program, along with Cindy Gavin, owner of Curves in Montrose, is providing participants in Saturday’s Bosom Buddies “One Step Closer to Help and Hope” with one more tool to help prevent breast cancer.

Gavin has donated 1,000 Liv Aids, a device that assists in breast self-exams.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Court tosses Fiske sentence The Colorado Court of Appeals has ruled the 22- year sentence imposed on Jason Fiske in the 2005 death of Kevin Hale be vacated and the matter will come back to Montrose for resentencing.

Restitution in sex case disputed The court needs to "draw a line" between what Alan Files justifiably owes his victim and what costs could not be reasonably foreseen.

The former Nucla fire chief was arrested in 2006 accused of several counts of sexual assault on a child.

Files, convicted by his Alford plea last year of unlawful sexual contact and attempted child abuse, disputes portions of the restitution.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 A walk of hope Whether it was in memory of a lost loved one or to honor the inspirational fight of a friend, more than 900 people participated in the 16th annual Bosom Buddies "One Step Closer to Help and Hope" walk/run Saturday morning.

A tradition of pageantry - the MHS Indian Marching Band Few things evoke spirit as well as music, so the school marching band was front and center as the catalyst the pageantry that is homecoming.

The 93-member Montrose High School Marching band performed their routine entitled ‘Dreams,’ to a packed audience providing the spirit for MHS Homecoming 2008. The band members will display their skills in competition Tuesday in Grand Junction.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13 Comrade-in-arms The Homestead of Montrose resi-

Wanted: City residents’ feedback Montrose residents have an opportunity to voice their opinions about city services, communication and operations in a recently mailed household survey.

The intent is to get feedback on the city’s performance.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 MHS tennis prepares for state Indians qualify five for the state tournament. No. 1 singles player Robert Herr was the only singles player to make it to state. Other players who qualified were, Aaron Arellano and Brian Davidson in No. 3 doubles and Doug Hallenborg and Zach Decker in No. 4 doubles.

Boy gets max in cyclist death There were tears from both sides of the courtroom Tuesday during Manuel Encinas-Garzon’s sentencing for killing Illinois cyclist Dave Tomlinson.

Encinas-Garzon received the maximum sentence for his crime, full two years, less 97 days’ credit for time served.

City staff addressing revenue stabilization Thursday, the 2009 budget will be presented to Montrose City Council for approval. Fewer funds and more fiscal responsibility led the city to address revenue stabilization.

Due to expected declines in tax revenue, the city scaled back its budget for next year.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 Sex offender held after alleged break-in Robert Campbell, 33, a sex offender was jailed on a $100,000 bond after allegedly breaking into the home of a teenage girl he is prohibited from contacting.

Campbell, 33, is accused of firstdegree burglary, assault, criminal mischief, violating a protection order and possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Hot lunches highlight nutrition Lunches will be a bit warmer this week, as the Montrose County School District celebrates National Hot Lunch Week. Students will have the opportunity to be served four dishes, learn about nutrition and vote for their favorite dish.

Olathe cross country teams prepare for Regionals More than 40 teams are slated for this Saturday’s state regional cross country meet at Delta’s Confluence Park.

Some especially tough competition awaits the Olathe Pirates this year, as the new alignment means that for the first time, will

compete against fellow 3A division teams.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 Cops: Safe heist may point to other crimes Two juvenile suspects didn’t exactly pull off the greatest safe heist when they allegedly stole one from Dairy Queen last week.

One of the youths has been arrested one of the youths and the second teen is being sought on a warrant, police said. The youth and this theft could be related to other, similar crimes.

Council asked to support Mesa State campus expansion Montrose City Council members heard justification and were asked to support pursuing a Mesa State expansion and business incubator in Montrose. They were asked to support a feasibility study to determine a plan to expand the Mesa State campus and provide business opportunities and sustainability.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 56 POINTS OF DOMINATION Olathe beats Gunnison for eighth straight win Olathe wasted little time getting on the scoreboard as the Pirates drove down and opened the scoring in the game against Gunnison.

The Pirates dominated in every facet of the game, clinching a 5614 win to make their eighth straight win this season.

MHS volleyball captures Southwestern League title The Montrose High volleyball team reached double digits in their winning streak and also captured the Southwestern League title by beating the Cortez Panthers in home action.

County again snags court security grant Some security improvements at the Montrose County Justice Center won't cost the taxpayers a dime.

The county received another $65,783 in grant funding in the second round of awards from the Court Security Commission.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 Let ‘em fly Forget pumpkin carving, pumpkin chucking was the talk around the area. Residents around the area traveled to the DeVries Buffalo Ranch, to take part in the Olathe Volunteer Fire Department's sixth annual "Pumpkin Chuckin'" event.

Coaches impressed with cross country teams The 2008 high school regional cross country meet was run Saturday morning at Delta’s Confluence Park under near-perfect conditions.

For the Montrose Indians, it was an outstanding performance. The MHS boys team finished in 6th place.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 20 Play now, eat later A new policy went into effect this week, moving recess before lunch for most area schools to avoid kids skipping lunch to go out and play.

The new arrangement allows the kids to get their energy out before sitting down to focus on nutrition.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 Commissioners appoint MMH board member Montrose County Commission-

ers filled the vacant position on the Montrose Memorial Hospital board last week with Montrose County resident Patricia “Tricia” Dickinson. She will serve until January 2011.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22 Two men accused of menacing A dispute between Douglas “Stony” Keithley and Melvin Skaggs ended with a gunshot and both being arrested on suspicion of menacing Monday.

Utility bills increase 13.9 percent over last year Source-Gas customers should budget for a 13.6 percent increase this heating season, according to Source-Gas. Customers saw a general rate increase in their utility bills starting in September. That increase is included in the 13.6 percent.

MHS volleyball team ready for postseason play The Montrose High volleyball team was given the No. 2 seed in District 8 of the Class 4A state postseason play.

MHS soccer hosts playoff game today The Montrose Indians soccer team got the No. 15 seed in the state tournament and will take on No. 17 Canyon City.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 Regional transportation study being conducted As part of long-term planning, Montrose County is looking into a possible transportation system between neighboring counties for commuters, according to county manager Joe Kerby.

A feasibility study for a public transportation system between Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Montrose, Delta and the West End is being conducted by LSC Transportation Consultants.

Indians defeat Cañon City in playoff opener The 15th seeded Montrose Indians' defeated Cañon City 3-1 in the opening round of the Class 4A state soccer playoffs.

The Indians, 12-4 on the season, will face either Fort Lupton or number two seed Fossil Ridge of Fort Collins Saturday.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 Arrests end ‘crime spree’ The arrests of two adults, Tyler Flester, 19, and Michael Montano, 18, and one more juvenile wrapped up a series of burglaries and criminal trespass complaints, Montrose Police Chief Tom Chinn said.

The young men are suspected of six different burglaries, including the theft of a safe from Dairy Queen.

City discusses priorities regarding comprehensive plan The city is prioritizing which items in the newly adopted comprehensive plan should be at the top of its implementation list.

The staff narrowed fifty items down to eight by considering the cost, ease of implementation and the prospect of quick benefits.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 Indians stuff Tigers!

"Three-peat" was the popular saying on Friday night.

Montrose High defeated Grand Junction 35-0, earning the Indians' their third consecutive Southwestern League title.

Pirates cruise to 55-20 win Olathe High remained undefeated at 9-0 after crushing Basalt.

"It's great to go undefeated," Corn said. "We're working hard but our end result is to go forward and have success in the postseason."

The Pirates ready for next week's big division rival game against undefeated Grand Valley.

Driver escapes serious injury A truck driver escaped serious injury Friday, when his semi truck and trailer rolled off of Highway 50, slinging containers of Coke products in its wake.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 Technically Speaking Technology is being used in the classroom for more than PowerPoint slides and accessing the Internet.

The Montrose Re-1J State Wide Assistive, Alternative, Augmentative Communication Team (SWAAC) works with area students who have disabilities by using different equipment to aid them in the classroom.

MHS Volleyball earns district title “Wow! We just won Districts” was the excited comment from Head coach Shane Forrest.

Emerging undefeated from the first pool, Montrose then had to take on Palisade in the first crossover match. After defeating Palisade, the Indians then had to face top-seeded Rock Canyon for the district 8 championship.

The Lady Indians won with three consecutive set scores of 25-22.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 27 Montrose High School’s Freshman Academy a success The often difficult transition from middle school to high school has been made a little bit easier for freshmen of Montrose High. MHS started its “Freshman Academy” program with 110 incoming freshman this year and the results have been positive so far.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 County battens down for tough economy As the economy tightens, so do the county’s budget projections.

Montrose County’s preliminary budget for 2009 is up by less than 1 percent over 2008’s — enough to sustain operations, but little for expansion.

Residents say ‘no’ to crossing closures Though the public hearing on closing railroad crossings in Olathe got heated Monday night, nothing was thrown at Union Pacific representatives but words.

Residents of Olathe stated their objections to closing the First and Sixth street railroad crossings in exchange for Union Pacific resurfacing the crossings on Fourth and Fifth streets.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29 MHS makes history Not only has Montrose High athletics won four Southwestern League champions titles, they made history doing it. MHS football, golf, soccer and volleyball all won the SWL League title this year and it marks the first time in the school’s history four teams have done so.

Rec District’s restructuring under fire Montrose Recreation District’s recent staff restructuring has led to disgruntled employees and

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Year in Review 2008 board members.

Three positions will be eliminated, and a couple combined, bring the staff of 19 down to 16.

Schaffer stumps in Montrose With about a week to go before Election Day, Republican senatorial candidate Bob Schaffer urged Montrose to support him at Pahgre’s restaurant.

He additionally gave a shout out to other Republicans seeking office: House District 58 candidate Scott Tipton and Montrose County Commission candidate Ron Henderson.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30 LLC created to manage two outreach clinics Through the creation of an LLC, Montrose Memorial Hospital hopes to open networks for funding and overhead for two of its three outreach clinics.

“If it makes it more efficient and makes more sense on the bottom line ... that is how we are going to view it as commissioners,” said County Commissioner Gary Ellis.

Dress up promotes drug free awareness Students and faculty are doing more than staying drug free—they are promoting it. As part of “Red Ribbon Week,” Olathe Middle School declared yesterday “Wear Red Day.” OMS Principal Berry Swenson said, “It’s just important the kids are informed about the negative effects of drugs and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.”

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31 The future of democracy Their votes might not count, but come Tuesday, they're casting them anyway.

Marge Keehfuss has been delivering ballots to district schools for the past 12 years as part of Kids Vote USA, a nonprofit, nonpartisan grassroots organization that educates students on voting.

Magic Circle Players presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 Opening tonight, “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” complements the season with a "stage door slasher," a mansion replete with sliding panels and secret passageways, and bodies that drop in plain sight.

Although the title implies it is a musical, the cast only sings two short songs which are written during the course of the play by a pair of characters as part of the plot.

Buena Vista (6-4) in the opening round.

the seat that is determined by the votes of six counties.

Second graders develop campaigns, cast their votes The second grade class at Cottonwood Elementary will be casting their votes for president, of the second grade class of course. The election is a lot of fun for students, and they are learning a lot from it, too.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Current, future commissioners meet over memo A memo from Montrose County Commissioners elect David White and Ron Henderson asked commissioners to table any and all leases, land-use decisions, property disposal or other financial decisions that didn’t require immediate action and also asked current commissioners not to appoint any citizen boards or commissions.

The current commissioners said they were initially put off by what they perceived the tone of the letter to be, but have since met individually with White and Henderson “The only reason for the memo was so there would be an orderly transition and it wouldn’t encumber them. They agreed we have to continue,” said Bill Patterson.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Area teams look to make run at state championships After going 9-1this regular season, the Montrose Indians football squad was given the No. 4 seed in the Class 4A state playoffs.

The Montrose High football team won't be the only local team busy this weekend as the Montrose volleyball team continues its run for a state title and the Olathe High football team (10-0) will host an opening round state playoff game in their pursuit for perfection.

Patterson decries third party advertising; a ‘direct smear’ on opponent Henderson It’s back again. An advertisement originally aimed at Commissioner Bill Patterson during last year’s recall attempts was resurrected Sunday. This time, it urges people to vote for Ron Henderson, Patterson’s Republican challenger for the District 1 commission seat. But Henderson did not place the ad.

Montrose voter turnout already at 66 percent The results aren’t yet public, but Montrose County’s picks for this presidential election may be a done deal.

As of Friday, voter turnout stood at 66 percent, Montrose County Clerk and Recorder Fran Tipton Long said. Turnout still has a way to go to meet that of the last presidential election, when 90 percent of active voters participated in the election.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Grand Junction McCain’s first stop on Election Day Arizona Sen. and presidential candidate John McCain made one more attempt to swing Colorado red, visiting Grand Junction to rally voters and supporters on Election Day. Thousands of supporters showed up to hear McCain.

Doctor’s indictment dismissed The number of defendants in the negligent homicide of Utah teen

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

November 5 - Montrose Democrats celebrate Sen. Barack Obama's victory at the Democratic Headquarters Tuesday night. Obama defeated Sen. John McCain.

Fundraiser set for officer, family Faith and family are getting a young Montrose Police officer and his wife through a trying year.

A fund-raising party for Cyndi Williams Haifley and Officer Jeff Haifley is slated for Sunday in Grand Junction, and aims to help the family recover financially from Cyndi’s bout with cancer.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Learn when to burn Wood stoves and fireplaces help beat the cold and costly heating bills. But they can also contribute to air pollution and the health concerns that go with it.

The Western Slope Air Watch wintertime air-quality advisory program hopes to cut down on that, by getting residents to forego the use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces on days when there is a temperature inversion.

Pirates win WSL title Halloween turned into a nightmare for the Grand Valley Cardinals and a dream come true for the Olathe High Pirates.

With the Western Slope League title on the line Friday night, the Pirates (10-0) ran over the Cardinals (8- 2) for a 6-14 victory, thereby securing the title, an unbeaten regular season record and likely a home playoff game next week.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 MHS Volleyball headed to state By sweeping their first two matches 3-0 against D’Evelyn and Greeley West, Montrose advanced, along with Roosevelt, to the state tournament.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Pirates seeded third in state The Olathe High football team garnered the No. 3 seed in the Class 2A state playoffs it was announced Saturday.

Olathe will host No. 14 seed

Caleb Jensen decreased by one Monday. Dr. Keith Hooker’s counsel’s petition was granted to dismiss his indictment on felony child abuse resulting in death and negligent homicide.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Obama first black president Barack Obama swept to victory as the nation’s first black president Tuesday night in an electoral college landslide that overcame racial barriers as old as America itself. “Change has come,” he told to a huge throng of jubilant supporters.

White, Henderson win A Democrat won the “big one” on Election Day, but Montrose County Republicans had plenty to celebrate in local races, where GOP candidates secured both open seats on the board of commissioners. In the District 1 race, voters handed Ron Henderson a surprise upset on incumbent Democrat Bill Patterson, at 7,752 to 6,201. Unaffiliated candidate Brent Wallace received 2,320 votes. Meanwhile, in District 3, David White handily defeated Tim Walsh, 10,448 to 5,448.

Voters give nod to Serra as DA District Attorney Myrl Serra will serve four years as an elected official. Serra, who was appointed to the vacancy created by the resignation of former Seventh Judicial District Attorney Tom Raynes, glided to his first official election, where he was unopposed. According to unofficial results, Serra received 12,923 votes in Montrose County.

Tipton beats Hagan in District 58 race Like many of his fellow Republicans in Montrose County, Scott Tipton, R-Cortez, beat his democratic opponent and will fill the Colorado House District 58 seat.

Tipton was running against Noelle Hagan, D-Montrose, for

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Centennial Middle School honors veterans with ceremony Although Veterans Day is this Tuesday, Centennial Middle School got a jump start on the festivities to honor local military veterans on Friday morning. The assembly was a combined effort, as teachers, the school band, choir and ROTC each played a role.

“We just wanted to show appreciation for the veterans,” said CMS Principal Nancy Alex.

Let’s talk about sex Keith Deltano is more than a comedian; he’s an educator. The former military police officer, math and social studies teacher and private counselor spoke to Montrose High freshman and sophomore students to inform them about the dangers of sex and the advantages of abstinence.

Students attended only with parental consent.

Montrose upsets top team Eighth-seeded Montrose High came into the Class 4A state volleyball tournament with a chip on their shoulder and it showed Friday. Montrose upset topseeded Cheyenne Mountain in five games.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Pirate express Third-seeded Olathe High (11-0) wasted little time in setting the tone Saturday, scoring early and often on its way to a 55-10 opening round victory over No. 14 Buena Vista (6-5) in the Class 2A state football playoffs.

"We just came out on fire," said OHS senior running back Davey Rhodes. "It was great for the first round of the playoffs, to come out and beat a team like this, that's just awesome."

Indians rally from behind The Indians proved their worth as they came back from a 14-0 deficit early on, to defeat the Niwot Cougars 21-14 in the opening round of the 4A state playoffs on Saturday afternoon in Montrose.

“Any win in the playoffs is nice,” Casebier said. “It’s what we needed. It was good to have to come back and win.”

“Absolutely Unbelievable!”

The Montrose Indian volleyball team made a statement against No.1 Cheyenne Mountain, beating them in five sets.

Though they struggled a bit in the next two matches, in the third and deciding set, facing match point and elimination 24-25, Montrose would go on to tie Windsor for four more match points before finally falling to the Wizards 29-31.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10 MHS speech team fares well at local tournament Eleven schools competed at the first District VI league tournament at Montrose High. MHS took 12 top awards in the competition.

Catholic school making strides In September, members of the Catholic community opened a school to teach Catholic values to its students.

Pope John Paul II Academy has been successful so far. The school currently has 22 students enrolled and teaches kindergarten through third grade.

Olathe football goes ‘live’ For the second time this season, has webcast a local Olathe football game online. Chris Kennedy, the Press’ MIS, provided the engineering and camera work to put the game online; Bill Swaim and Phil Ashley provided the play-byplay commentary and color. The broadcast allowed Olathe alumni, grandparents of players and others who couldn’t attend the game to watch it from their homes.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 $10 million on tap for public safety Public safety needs in Montrose County could be funded at about $10.1 million, if the proposed 2009 budget is approved.

The bulk of the proposed funding goes to the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office, which is slated to

January 4, 2009 17

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

November 5 - Arizona Sen. and Republican presidential candidate John McCain looks down to his hands during an Election Day rally in Grand Junction Tuesday.

receive more than $8 million total. Other public safety needs that are at least in part funded by the county include the sheriff’s and district attorney’s offices; the coroner, rural health clinics, fire protection and ambulance service.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Dark day in Montrose Police are mustering their case against a 14-year-old Montrose boy they say assaulted a Montrose High School junior with a weapon Tuesday morning.

Shortly before morning classes began, Mallory Haulman, 17, was entering reportedly attacked from behind with a straight edged weapon.

Mallory was taken to Montrose Memorial Hospital with injuries to her neck requiring surgery.

School explains security Montrose High School administrators were questioned by parents and students alike Tuesday night after explaining official reaction to an armed assault on a teen girl.

Staffers explained the enhanced security measures that will be in place for the rest of the week.

Veterans honored at ceremony Active and veteran soldiers, families and residents of all ages gathered at Grand View Cemetery to pay tribute on Veterans Day. “It’s the reason we’re free,” said Bill Minerich, vice senior commander of District 11.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Teen recovering from slashing A 14-year old boy allegedly slashed Mallory Haulman in the throat, inflicting an “almost earto-ear” injury and then he calmly walked away, according to her father. Alicia Haulman said their daughter was very lucky to be alive.

Mallory returned home Wednesday after a successful surgery and was recovering.

School District increases work with local farms Comparing Re-1J School District's purchases from national and local vendors were like comparing apple and oranges, as there weren't many local purchases.

However, the district hopes to change that by purchasing more produce from local farmers.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Fire destroys home, kills dog Firefighters pulled one dog from a burning home Wednesday night, but the other canine, as well as everything the Marcelino

and Juanita Garcia owned, was lost to the fire started radiant heat from a heat lamp that ignited dog bedding in the porch area.

Plant expansion completed The city of Montrose recognized the completion of its Wastewater Treatment Plant’s large expansion Wednesday with a presentation and tour of the facility. The expansion allows the facility to drain one of the ditches and conduct necessary maintenance, as well as be prepared for more customers in years to come.

Montrose ready for another battle The fourth-seeded Montrose High football squad might have the home field advantage in tomorrow's playoff game against fifth-seeded Greeley West, but they know home field can only take them so far.

Coach Casebier said Greeley West is a solid team that has a balanced offense and can run the ball well. However, the Indians are feeling positive heading into the game.

OHS hopes to maintain speed in Englewood The 11-0 Olathe Pirates are headed to suburban Englewood to take on the Kent Denver Sun Devils. The Pirates are not looking to individuals to carry things but are focused on a total team effort to win and move on to face the winner of the Brush/Faith Christian game.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Second suspect arrested in slashing Police are keeping mum as to why a second 14-year old boy was arrested in Tuesday's knifing incident at Montrose High.

The second suspect's parents, however, are speaking out. They say their son is not a conspirator, as investigators allege, and they're critical of the way they say police handled questioning the boy.

New restraining order against JetAway The county persuaded the court that JetAway Aviation was in continual violation of certain airport safety regulations.

It secured a temporary restraining order, over the objections of JetAway counsel, alleging JetAway defied a June 30 order that prohibited the parking of vehicles in the airport’s object free area and taxi way.

Murder suspect’s trial moved to next year

Accused murderer Lionel Lopez gave up his right to a speedy trial Friday in Montrose District Court.

Originally set for Dec. 3, Lopez’ jury trial was rescheduled for June 1, 2009, by Judge Jeff Herron at the request of both defense and prosecuting attorneys to avoid a “rush to judgment” since jurors might be tempted to reach a verdict before Christmas.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Strictly Business The Pirates work paid off this week as they dominated the Sun Devils on both sides of the ball as they ran around, through and pretty much over No. 6 Kent Denver Sun Devils on their way to a 27-6 victory. With this win, the Pirates earn spot in next weekend’s semi-finals.

“We’ve been dreaming about winning a state title since middle school. We are so close and there are no words that can explain that feeling,” said OHS senior Chris Brummitt.

Montrose aims to prevent future school attacks As legal proceedings get underway in the attack of 17-year old Mallory Haulman, the school district is examining what went wrong, what can be done and how far to go with security measures.

Barbara Hunt, risk manager for the Montrose school district, said steps to reduce the chance of violence from nonstudents are getting careful review, "We're examining every aspect to see what we can do to make it better and to prevent it happening again."

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Cookin’ for a cause Montrose residents gathered to participate in a chili cook-off, an event to raise money and enrollment at Tree of Life Preschool at the United Methodist Church The event raised $1,552, but Krista Montalvo, organizer of the event, said they were still collecting raffle ticket donations, so that number could go up.

Bringing Japan Home Fourth graders at Johnson Elementary in Kathy See’s class are getting a better taste of the See recently returned from Japan, where she participated in the Japan Fullbright Memorial Fund teacher program. Now, See said she is incorporating different things she learned in Japan into her lesson plans.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Complaint filed over election ad The district attorney’s office is in-

Year in Review 2008

18 January 4, 2009

CommCorr for man who slashed brother Tyrell Rose, 24, was sentenced for felony menacing after attacking his brother with a knife during a family argument.

He received three years in Community Corrections, with a suspended prison sentence if he does not successfully complete CommCorr.

JOEL BLOCKER / DAILY PRESS

November 28 - People make their way through the line at the 14th annual Montrose Thanksgiving "Friends" Celebration held at Friendship Hall Thursday afternoon.

vestigating a complaint by Bill Patterson that Election Day advertising did not comply with the law. The ad featured a picture of Patterson with words questioning his “honesty, integrity and judgment.”

He claimed undue influence.

“They directly advocated for a candidate and they did it in a false and misleading way,” Patterson said. “ MHS speech team takes 2nd at tournament The Montrose High speech team took second at the Grand Junction Tournament, which featured nine teams.

Head coach AJ Smith stated she was exceedingly proud of how each competitor rallied around each other and gave tremendous support.

Victim returns to class; teacher who saved her praises her courage Less than one week after being attacked, Montrose High junior Mallory Haulman returned to class.

Mike Nadiak, the teacher credited with helping save Mallory’s life, said he was delighted she was well enough to come back already.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19 DMEA applies for more rebate programs Delta Montrose Electrical Association hopes to expand, as well as add programs next year, making renewable energy systems more affordable for the community.

Earlier this year, DMEA matched a grant from the Governor’s Energy office for watt rebates to new residential customers of solar photovoltaic (PV) system.

JetAway claims all county commissioners conspired JetAway Aviation wants the federal court to find that all sitting county commissioners conspired to restrain trade at Montrose Regional Airport.

Safe2Tell could help with school district safety program Safe2Tell’s goal is to provide an anonymous venue for parents, students, teachers, school faculty or law enforcement agencies to share information about a possible threat of violence at school.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Local officers honored for service Montrose police officers Lenny Abeyta and Giovoni Mendoza were awarded the Medal of Val-

or, the highest honor offered to a member of the Montrose Police Department.

Both received the award for their response to an armed burglary situation. Mendoza also received the Purple Heart for the injuries he sustained in the incident.

Tackling poverty one tooth at a time As our country looks to address its poverty issues, the Community Dental clinic in Montrose has decided to take smaller bites out of the problem by addressing dental hygiene.

MHS soccer players receive All-State honors The Indians can add All-State honors to the list now.

MHS defender Ricky Zatarain and forward Steven Tobler earned All-State second team honors. Eliseo Gomez, MHS forward, earned an honorable mention.

The three also earned All- Southwestern League first team honors. Gomez was the only freshman to earn either honor.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Building up Christmas Members of the Woodworkers Guild of Western Colorado and the Montrose Visual Arts Guild have combined forces for a third consecutive year by building and painting toys to be given to Toys For Tots for Christmas.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Task force busts 2 for drugs Lisa Oringderff, 39, and Sidney Wilson, 44, were arrested at Oringderff’s trailer home Tuesday night, where Seventh Judicial District Meth/Drug Task Force agents served a warrant and reported finding 14 grams of methamphetamine, 1 gram of cocaine and a pound of marijuana.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 The Price is Right Putting a dent in your wallet is a thing of the past when it comes to filling up your vehicle with gas — at least for the time being.

Gas prices are decreasing significantly. Unleaded regular gas can be purchased for less than $2 a gallon at seven gas stations in Montrose.

MMH announces permanent CEO The Board of Trustees at Montrose Memorial Hospital announced Friday that David Hample will become the permanent CEO. Hample has over 20 years experience and is currently serving as CEO at Jackson Hospital in Marianna, Fla. and was previously the vice president of operations at Parkview Medical Center in Pueblo, CO. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23 ON TO STATE! Assistant coach Joe Archuleta said after the Pirate’s win over a courageous Faith Christian team from Aurora, “It was the way it was supposed to be.”

Olathe Pirates wrapped up a win against Faith Christian 14 – 6. The Pirates have one game left as they face Erie next at Legacy Stadium for the 2A state championship.

Plugged in

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Youth charged with attempted murder Michael Yates, 14, a Montrose teen was charged as an adult in the Nov. 11 knifing of Mallory Haulman at Montrose High School.

Yates was formally charged Monday with attempted first degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree assault.

Turkey time The 14th annual Montrose Thanksgiving “Friends” Celebration will take place on Thanksgiving Day, at the Montrose County Fairgrounds’ Friendship Hall.

This year, volunteers are preparing 97 turkeys and 30 hams, as well as corn, beans, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and fruit salad.

DMEA may not increase rates this year Consumers’ expenses may be climbing, but DMEA customers will not see a rate increase in their 2009 electric bill if the board approves staff recommendations tonight.

MHS cheer squad earns 10th title Forget three-peats, the Montrose cheerleading squad earned its 10th National Cheerleading Association Championship last weekend in Grand Junction.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Fight Night For the third time in one year, Friendship Hall was filled with adrenaline-pumping, slick-moving fighters who were there for one reason — To fight for a cause.

The proceeds from the event go toward helping the MHS wrestling team with traveling costs, hotels and meals for the wrestlers, as well as tournament fees.

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Daily Press to air state title game live In its fifth live webcast this season, the Montrose Daily Press will broadcast the Class 2A state championship football game Saturday featuring the Olathe Pirates (13-0) and Erie (12-1) at Legacy Stadium in Aurora.

The Daily Press will be covering the game with stories and photos as well, including a pregame special section.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Local farmers team with Sharing Ministries to feed hungry The less fortunate will have the opportunity to pig out in the near future, literally.

Sharing Ministries Inc. teamed with local farmers Julie Beito and Dave Evans by purchasing six young pigs. The objective of the partnership is to help feed the hungry.

Sharing Ministries provided leftover food to feed the pigs. In return, Beito and Evans raised the pigs until they reach over 200 pounds. On Monday, the pigs were slaughtered to be turned into meat.

MMH gets community survey results "We do a community survey approximately every four years to see what the community thinks of the hospital and what they would like to see from us," said Leann Tobin, spokeswoman for MMH. The survey showed that although they have competition, overall they have improved since 2004.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Hundreds gobble Thanksgiving meal Hundreds of people stuffed Friendship Hall to the gills Thanksgiving Day, for turkey dinner with all the trimmings and their pick from a whole fleet of pies. Many who came were filled with more than food: they were feasting on community spirit.

Organizers said previously they expected to feed around 2,000 or more people this year; a final count was not available by Thursday’s deadline.

Annual Turkey Trot race draws enthusiastic crowd “We try to make it a really familyoriented event,” said Kjersten Davis, a local veterinarian. Davis organized the Turkey Trot this year with fellow San Juan Mountain Runners member, Kylee Smith, a retired PE teacher. “It’s not geared as a race. For the vast majority of participants, it’s just a fun family event before they eat turkey.”

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Shop 'til you drop Montrose residents spent little time recovering from Thanksgiving – stores such as Wal-Mart, Target and Office Depot were packed early Friday morning with hopeful shoppers looking to get the best deals possible on Christmas gifts during Black Friday.

Gun sales increase in Montrose Since Barack Obama was elected the nation’s next president gun sales have increased faster than a speeding bullet.

Steve Omernik, President of Jeans Westerner, confirmed the trend at the local sporting goods and outfitting store.

Much of the increased activity has been sparked by concern that the new administration will increase firearms restrictions.

Christ's Kitchen serving more people Tight times are bringing more people to the doors of Christ’s Kitchen. But you won’t find volunteers complaining: helping those in need is why they’re there.

Martinez said it’s easy to help. “It doesn’t sound like a lot, but if I have 100 families giving $5 a month, I have $500 a month.

That’s two days’ of free food,” he said. “Five dollars a month is the equivalent of one mocha.”

Overall, Martinez said, the kitchen has been “really fortunate.”

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Pirates win Class 2A title in OT There was no better way for the Olathe High Pirates to claim their first state football title in school history. Senior tailback David Rhodes scored from 1 yard out in overtime and freshman kicker Sergio Salazar nailed a clutch extra point to help the Pirates rally to a 22-21 victory over Erie in the Class 2A state championship game at Legacy Stadium in Aurora.

Civil Air Patrol turns 67 The Civil Air Patrol’s 67th anniversary is just around the corner. The CAP is an auxiliary of the United States Air Force and was created Dec. 1, 1941.

In Montrose, there are 40 members, said recruiting officer Lt. Bruce Greensmith.

“The cadet program is a major part of (the CAP),” Greensmith said. “It provides good core values for young people.”

MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 Weather puts damper on travel Due to snow showers in the Denver area, United Airlines’ flights from Montrose to Denver were delayed several hours, forcing many to change their travel plans.

New technology makes movie watching more convenient With the current state of the economy and DVD sales decreasing 30 percent in the past year, the days of spending $20 on movies to watch over the weekend are over.

New programs, such as "RedBox" and similar setups, make DVD rentals easy and inexpensive. Located in grocery stores and fast food restaurants, they allow customers to rent DVDs for a dollar right there, instead of an extra trip to the movie store.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Parade of Champions The community lined Main Street in Olathe Monday to show support for its first state champion football team.

Thirty-six members of the Olathe Pirates sat tall on three fire trucks as they made their way from the school and downtown during a noon parade to congratulate players.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3 Samaritans thwart shoplifters Police credit two good Samaritans with helping bust two shoplifting suspects in Delta last week. Julie Skelly, 34, and Dustin Hyatt, 31, both of Grand Junction were accused of stealing close to $3,000 in electronics from the Delta Wal-Mart Nov. 24, then fleeing the scene in a vehicle as store employees gave chase.

Online Shopping As the times continue to change, so do lifestyles and some Montrose residents are opting to do their holiday shopping with just the click of a mouse.

Despite a struggling economy and low expectations for Christmas shopping this year, new research shows that online shopping has increased by 11 percent during Black Friday this year from 2007.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Future uncertain It's a "trickling up" effect and local auto dealers only hope the large automakers can hold on long enough for consumer spending to increase. With the state of the current economy, local dealers stopped putting in as many orders thus, the automakers aren’t making enough vehicles, or money.

But there is optimism to be had.

Gas prices have dropped and like the housing industry, there are deals to be made.

Fraud suspected in corporate mailings It looks official, but a request for "annual minutes disclosure" statements is anything but, state and federal officials say.

For a fee, Colorado Corporate Compliance offers to assist businesses in filing minutes from annual corporate meetings with governmental agencies. But Colorado law does not require corporations to file meeting minutes with the secretary of state.

Hospital could house full time helicopter Montrose Memorial Hospital is mulling the idea of a care flight helicopter stationed full-time at the hospital.

MMH Medical Director Dr. David Dreitlein spoke to the board about the benefits of a helicopter housed full-time at the hospital, which included quicker response and care time.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 What now for dormitory?

The Montrose County Housing Authority believes there’s a way to utilize the Olathe Farm Dormitory.

A new federal administration, however, may open new possibilities. Last week, MCHA was awarded a waiver to allow homeless people with no income into the dorm for 30 days.

Slashing charges delayed again It will be close to Christmas before formal charges are filed against the suspected conspirator in the Nov. 11 knife attack at Montrose High.

Two boys, both 14, are being held at a Grand Junction facility for their alleged roles in the attack on junior Mallory Haulman at the school on Veterans Day. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Region 10 seeks new senior meal sponsor Region 10 is seeking a new contractor to provide senior meals

Year in Review 2008

January 4, 2009 19

role in the fracas. After hours of deliberation that spanned two days, jurors convicted him Friday of a lesser offense, third-degree assault. They also convicted Natalie Rupe of third-degree assault for her role in attacking another woman outside of Thomas Waldo's Tavern in Paonia Aug. 12.

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

December 1 - Coaches and players of the state championship team Olathe Pirates pose for a picture for family and media following an exciting 22-21 win over the Erie Tigers in Aurora Saturday afternoon.

on the West End. Region 10 operates the local Area Agency on Aging, which disburses about $1 million per year in state and federal money to several programs for seniors.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 Black Canyon Golf - looking forward with a rich heritage One of Black Canyon’s focuses is to create opportunities for families to spend time together on the golf course. Couples leagues on Thursday evenings have been popular, and he plans to build on that by adding couples tournaments in two-day formats. Kids play free with their parents on Mondays, ladies days run on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings, and the men’s league on Wednesday evenings has had 104 regular members.

Airport legal bills take off The tab for legal fees in airport litigation has climbed to $744,000 at last count. "It's pretty significant," Montrose County Commissioner Gary Ellis said. The fees encompass the county's defense of local and federal lawsuits filed by JetAway Aviation.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8 A loss of innocence It’s been nearly a month since the knifing incident occurred at Montrose High School. Without a doubt, the community was in shock that a violent act could occur at home. While MHS was at first in shock and scared of what happened, the school has gotten back to its routine. Montrose Principal Jill Myers said the school was back to normal and that attendance was back to where it was before the knifing occurred.

taken into custody Tyler Carr, 20; Michael Alvarado, 21; and Darlene Belarde, 42. Carr and Alvarado were held on suspicion of multiple burglary and theft charges; Belarde, their mother and mother-in-law, respectively, is suspected of theft by receiving.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14 Bridges Country Club teams with three charities for good cause Forget the reindeer and sled, Santa Claus rode into town on a golf cart on Saturday afternoon. Yes, golf cart. The Bridges Golf and Country Club held its "First Annual Santa Saturday at the Bridges" on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in conjunction with Toys for Tots, Black Canyon Boys and Girls Club and Voices for Children.

The event was held to help raise enough money and toys to provide underprivileged children a Merry Christmas.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 15 Money raised for local law enforcement The Montrose County Sheriff’s Department played a charity basketball game at the Lloyd McMillan Gym. They hosted the Harlem Globetrotter Alumni Tour. Proceeds were to benefit the Sheriff’s Posse and Rescue

Bernard Madoff was arrested last week on charges of defrauding investors worldwide in a $50-billion scheme. He's under house arrest and was ordered to wear an ankle monitor.

Among those allegedly defrauded were Robert and Sarah Chew of Montrose. They told the Associated Press they lost their entire $650,000 investment — an investment they believed had grown to $1.2 million. Sarah Chew's family could have lost up to $30 million to the scheme. The Chews reported seeing positive returns on quarterly reports for years, but said the investment was secretive.

Report finds school district growth, improvement Parents of children attending Montrose county schools can take comfort in the 2008 School Accountability Reports.

The newly released reports suggest a majority of the Montrose county RE-1J schools have seen improved performance and growth.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 Posse, sheriff warn of scam 'Tis the season for scams and not even the sheriff's posse is immune from victimization.

Sheriff Rick Dunlap said his office is investigating reports of a

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 Generosity from the ashes The Colorado Supreme Court turned down JetAway Aviation’s bid to stay a temporary restraining order that effectively cut its airport access last month. The aviation company and Montrose County continue to battle over its business. JetAway claims in federal litigation and complaints that the county conspired with the on-airport fixed base operator to restrain competition at Montrose Regional Airport. The county denies the claims.

Multiple arrests in alleged home invasion Six people were arrested over a reported home invasion in which two occupants were injured.

According to the Montrose Police Department, Isaiha Quintana, 20, Andrew Valencia, 20, and four juveniles came uninvited to a residence on Works Way Saturday evening. They knocked on the door, and when it was opened, allegedly asked residents there to come outside and talk. The occupants refused, but when they tried to shut the door, the group allegedly pushed their way into the home, where a fight broke out.

MHS hoops win home tournament It truly was sweet for the Lady Indians to play on their home court. The Montrose Lady Indians won the Black Canyon tournament title and walked away with several individual honors.

The Montrose boys basketball squad walked away from the Black Canyon tournament living the good life. Like the Lady Indians, the boys won the Black Canyon tournament title in the championship against Rifle.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 Compromises made, MAMA gets its contract Monday’s four-hour special council meeting resulted in a one-year contract between Montrose Area Merchants Association and Montrose City Council for retail sales enhancement. Historically, the Retail Sales Enhancement (RSE) fund has been contracted out to MAMA. However, the 2009 contract details sparked disagreement between the two groups.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 22 State court denies JetAway petition The Colorado Supreme Court turned down JetAway Aviation’s bid to stay a temporary restraining order that effectively cut its airport access last month. The aviation company and Montrose County continue to battle over its business. JetAway claims in federal litigation and complaints that the county conspired with the on-airport fixed base operator to restrain competition at Montrose Regional Airport. The county denies the claims.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25 Alternative vehicles on roadways still under discussion The town of Olathe’s ordinance to provide alternative modes of transportation within town limits was put on hold, as legal logistics need to be worked out and board members updated. The law is currently at a standstill, as there were several legal problems with its contents.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 A solemn remembrance Montrose High School students and staff gathered with area veterans Monday for an assembly to honor veterans and remember the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Olathe adjusts budget for economic downturn Overall, the Olathe town budget is “workable,” according to staff, and will come before the board of trustees for approval. The board met to make final comments on the 2009 preliminary budget.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 Local stores encourage residents to shop in town Just one year ago, Montrose resident Pamela Landry experienced a true nightmare before Christmas. After hearing all of the “advantages” of online shopping, Landry opted to do her Christmas shopping on the computer. A watch, video game system, clothing and multiple other gifts were perfect for her friends and family. The problem was Landry spent a lot of money on shipping gifts that weren’t received until after Christmas.

One year later, Landry has learned her lesson and opted to stick to local shopping for Christmas purchases.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 County not able to meet coroner's request The Montrose County coroner will have to ask commissioners for additional money, as needed, under 2009’s proposed budget. For 2008, the Montrose County Coroner’s Office is projected to spend more than $125,000. Initial spending projections were $112,000 and the recommended budget for 2009 is $116,000.

MAMA, city not seeing eye to eye Montrose Area Merchants Association’s contract with the city is currently in limbo, as the two entities can’t agree on contract details.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Sexually violent predator moves to Delta Delta County residents didn’t mince words after a public meeting concerning sexually violent predator Leonires Duran, who’s moved in next door to a young girl and near a bus route.

Sheriff makes arrest in burglaries Montrose Police Chief Tom Chinn got something he didn’t expect: arrests in the January burglary of his home. The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday it had earlier

WILLIAM WOODY / DAILY PRESS

December 7 - In a timed exposure, hundreds of area residents turned out to view the 2008 Parade of Lights on Main Street Saturday evening.

Team and the Black Canyon Boys and Girls Club.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Fire chars church The Templo Roca de Refugio Assembly of God Church is picking up the pieces, after an early-morning fire damaged the building. A neighbor spotted the fire at 2:18 a.m. Monday and alerted the fire district. It apparently began inside the wall and so, was not visible until it was too late.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Fire destroys charity kitchen's stove The loss of its cookstove won't stop Christ's Kitchen from serving up hot meals. The stove caught fire just a few minutes after the meal kitchen opened its doors for lunch Tuesday, triggering a brief evacuation. The Montrose Fire Protection District tentatively put the cause down to a valve leak by the burner control. Lt. Kevin Davis said the fire destroyed the valve and damaged the commercial cook stove's wiring. There were no apparent human factors in the fire.

City's financial forecast released If the city of Montrose follows the recommended transfers of funds for capital improvements, set by a 2006 resolution and 1986 ordinance, it will deplete operating expenses below 15 percent by 2010. City staff presented a comprehensive financial plan and long-range forecast at the last board meeting, as requested by council. The forecast shows the city can maintain services. However, the forecast shows it cannot fund projects laid out in the Capital Improvement Document (CID) and maintain operating expenses above 15-20 percent.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 Montrose couple victimized in Madoff scam An international financial scandal hit home for a Montrose couple, who said they've lost hundreds of thousands of dollars invested in what is now being called a Ponzi scheme.

woman who reportedly called at least one individual and claimed to be soliciting donations on behalf of the Montrose County Sheriff's Posse, a volunteer organization run under his auspices to assist with searches and rescues, security and other duties.

Curbside recycling to start March 3 The Montrose curbside recycling will officially launch March 3, 2009, according to city staff.

Bins will be delivered directly to participants during the month of February. Participants will receive either two 18 gallon blue bins or two 18-gallon green bins and information about their pickup schedule. Participants can sign up for the program at City Hall or on the city's Web site, www.cityofmontrose.org/recycling.

Mallory Haulman was attacked from behind inside the high school lobby area. She sustained a severe slash to the throat, but is recovering and has returned to class.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23 Alleged slashing conspirator wins bond One of two teens accused in the Nov. 11 assault at Montrose High could be home for the holidays. The boy, 14, was granted bond Monday when the district attorney’s office also received its second extension to file formal charges. The teen is suspected of conspiracy in the incident, during which 17-year-old

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26 Volunteers deliver Christmas meals Giving to the community comes naturally to Norm and Lexy Stevenson. Norm is a retired firefighter from Colorado Springs who learned to cook under the skilled tutelage of his mother-in-law and has honed those skills over the years in the firehouse. Lexy, a retired court recorder, and her husband have been leading a program they call Colorado Christmas Meals for the last four years. The program, now in its seventh year, was originally the idea of Boots and Linda Carpenter, who worked with Linda and Wyatt Angelo at its outset.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 Winter storm pounds mountains Forecasters are warning of hazardous travel in Colorado’s mountains because of winter storms, and state transportation officials are recommending drivers pack winter survival kits. A powerful winter storm that moved into western Colorado on Christmas Day was expected to bring up to 3 feet of snow in parts of the western mountains. Silverton Mountain in southwest Colorado reported 40 inches of new snow in the last 24 hours, but roads leading to the ski area were closed due to adverse conditions. The expert ski area was hoping to reopen Saturday. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center warned of high avalanche danger in south-central Colorado, including Aspen, Crested Butte,

Telluride and Silverton.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28 Who is Windy Point Jane Doe? For close to 15 years, she's rested in a cardboard box poignantly marked "keep forever!" — But the woman called Windy Point Jane Doe has yet to rest in peace. Dr. Thomas Canfield, Montrose County coroner, wants to change that.

He wants her remains positively identified because, he said, somewhere a family is waiting.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29 Moving wall coming to Montrose The Vietnam Veterans Memorial symbolizes a part of history, and the more than 58,000 names sketched into its shows the magnitude of the sacrifices made by men and women for their country. In May, Montrose will host a piece of that history, providing an opportunity for families to remember loved ones, veterans to honor friends and students to learn about the past.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30 Camp death indictments dropped Community Education Centers, Inc., is the last defendant standing in the alleged negligent homicide of Caleb Jensen.

Its bid to obtain certain grand jury information from the courts was denied, but more motions, including whether its attorney can make a probable cause argument, are pending.

Man arrested after crash A Montrose man, José FloresQuezado, was arrested on suspicion of several offenses, including drunken driving, eluding police and endangering pedestrians after his vehicle plowed into a sign near North Fourth Street and Cascade Avenue.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Task force arrests 5 The number of arrests in an ongoing drug task force investigation continue to mount, with five men held on elevated bonds as of Tuesday.

Between Dec. 19 and Monday, Gabino Flores-Hernandez, Juan Denicolas, Luis Carols-Marin, Abraham Cuevas Pena and Oscar Meraz were booked into the Montrose County Jail. According to jail and court records, all men must post a $750,000 cash-only bond in order to be released.

Their arrest affidavits were sealed. According to the Montrose Combined Courts, the motion sealing the records said the information was part of an ongoing investigation and its release would jeopardize that investigation.

Longtime senior meal provider to close doors A vital program that provides meals to seniors is feeling the stresses of uncertain economic times.

Region 10 Area Agency on Aging (AAA) has contracted with Columbine Senior Services for years to provide meal sites and home delivered meals at eight sites in Montrose, Delta and San Miguel counties. However, the program is in jeopardy, as Columbine Senior Services has opted out of its contract and plans to close its doors in 2009, according to a news release.

Currently, the agency is searching for interested organizations or individuals to partner with.

Olathe squeaks by Montrose wrestling In a very physical wrestling rivalry between the Olathe Pirates and the Montrose Indians, it was Olathe escaping with a victory defeating Montrose 37-33.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 A community call to fight local poverty There was a call to the public and local organizations Thursday to again start a war on poverty at the community level.

Montrose County Health and Human Services Director Peg Mewes and Richard Harding, board president for Painted Sky, a local resource conservation and development council, presented information to community members and elected officials during a poverty presentation.

Rupe not guilty of second-degree assault There was "no question" a bar employee permanently disabled in a fight this past summer sustained serious bodily injury, defense attorneys for Brent and Natalie Rupe said. But who actually inflicted that injury was a critical question and in the end, the jury could not find sufficient evidence proving Brent Rupe's

429 N 1st • Montrose • 970.249.9120 Fax 970.249.2744 • 8am - 5pm Mon - Fri

Year in Review 2008

20 January 4, 2009

Montrose County Community Relations • 161 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose, CO 81401 • www.montrosecounty.net • (970) 249-7755

Thank You, Montrose County Voters!

We appreciate your trust in our leadership! We are committed to our ongoing openness and transparency in all our activities.

It is our commitment to keep communicating with you, and encouraging your participation in all our meetings and events.

Another Year of Accomplishments Completed roofing and began facilities improvements of Friendship Hall

Ran an efficient, smooth election with record voter turnout!

Achieved perfect results in the vital records department Updated and revised subdivision regulations Broadened the scope and started the update of Land Use’s Master Plan hiring Winston & Associates Involved in four major grant-funded planning studies: strategic facilities update, local public transportation feasibility study, energy socioeconomic impact study, and regional public transportation feasibility study

Promoted a legislative initiative for local sales tax collection Hosted over 30 public meetings including quarterly sales tax showcases Organized 125th anniversary celebration involving the community

Road & Bridge Spent over $5,200,000 in new sales tax funds - 88.1% of this invested vendors in our Community Completed over 22.8 miles of seal coats on County roads - extending their life for another five to seven years Improved over 13 miles of County roads Purchased over $2,000,000 in equipment and $1,600,000 in services from local vendors

Sheriff’s Office Responded to over 16,000 calls for service, a 10% increase since 2006 Equipped all patrol vehicles with mobile data computer system and onboard camera systems—increasing efficiency and officer and public safety Provided patrol and detention officers with Tasers Secured over $50,000 in State Criminal Alien Assistance Program reimbursements Reorganized the Jail and work release: estimated savings of $70,000 - $90,000 per year Hired a Jail Administrator and Custody Support Assistants

Goals and Areas for Improvement in 2009 Optimize operations for maximum performance and cost savings Ongoing development of performance management system Implement County-wide customer service training program Pursue community corrections and treatment center at Justice Center Complete land use’s master plan update process Adopt and implement new planned unit development regulations Sheriff’s Office (S.O.): promote VINE—Victim Information Notification Everyday and Project Lifesaver S.O.: Establish an Animal Control Officer S.O.:Fill an Airport Security Position S.O.: Continue to pursue programs that support our communities Enable two-way communications with our citizens Publish an annual report Pursue legislative support for initiatives that benefit Montrose County Enhance the use of website functionality Continue improvements of Fairgrounds and Friendship Hall Promote energy conservation initiatives for all County buildings Work with Census Bureau through 2010 to ensure complete and accurate census collection data

photo by Joel Blocker

photo by William Woody

free Montrose County 2009 Wall Calendar Calendars are available at:

Montrose County Admin, 161 S. Townsend, 249-7755 MAMA, (1500 E. Oak Grove Rd., 249-6360) Montrose Daily Press, (3684 N. Townsend, 249-3444) DMEA, (11925 6300 Rd., 249-4572) Montrose Memorial Hospital, (800 S. 3rd St., 249-2211)

Save the dates: Radon Information Sessions • January 5, 7, 12 & 21, 2009 Board of County Commissioner Meetings • Jan. 5 & 20, 2009 Master Plan Update Public Meeting • January 13-15, 2009 Relay For Life Kick Off • January 21, 2009 Digital TV conversion • February 17, 2009 For more information kindly visit www.montrosecounty.net or call 249-7755

Now available ONLY $10 Packets of 8 notecards, with

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beautiful photography by award- winning Montrose Daily Press photo journalists Joel Blocker and William Woody.

Proceeds of the sale benefit Operation Sweet Tooth and Montrose County Relay for Life!

Available at 161 S. Townsend Ave.