Montrose Fresh

The turning point for Mirza Ahmed came as he worked a hospital internship during his medical studies. A professor noticed how affected he was by seeing hundreds of children sick with measles and the disease’s severe complications. It was, the new Montrose County Public Health director said Tuesday, a turning point for him, as he realized public health could help prevent devastating disease in the first place.

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For years, Colorado General Assembly members representing rural communities maintained a somewhat unofficial alliance they jokingly called the "raucous caucus,” according to District 54 Representative Matt Soper. Now, albeit under a new name, the state’s new Legislative Rural Caucus brings together members of both houses and different political parties to represent rural interests. 

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Solar and other power generation facilities could be allowed in Montrose County, if county commissioners ultimately adopt an updated zoning amendment — one whose provisions would also address where and under what conditions natural medicine and massage therapy businesses could operate.

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Montrose County is nearing a key decision on new rules that could open the door to solar and other power generation projects, but not without debate over land use, setbacks, and community impact. And later, Shirley Koch is once again appealing her prison sentence in the Sunset Mesa body-brokering case, reigniting one of the region’s most disturbing legal sagas.

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This week in Montrose: Dave Frank steps into his new role as mayor following a smooth leadership transition at City Hall, and Surf and Cycle kicks off its summer group rides with a free session at Electric Hills.

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Massive federal cuts to AmeriCorps are leaving Colorado nonprofits in crisis—forcing tough choices in education, elder care, and conservation. And later, we reflect on the decades-long career of Dr. Mary Vader, a beloved Montrose pediatrician whose impact will be felt long after her retirement.

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Today’s episode tracks two unfolding stories: the Montrose community’s swift fundraising drive to support 22‑year‑old Luis Romero’s rehabilitation after an April 27 crash left him paralyzed, and CDOT’s overnight lane restrictions as crews apply final protective paint to the US‑50 Middle Bridge at Blue Mesa Reservoir.

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Today: This Saturday, expect big hats, big skirts, and even bigger personality as the Derby Day Pinup Pageant returns to Montrose!

And later: Brenda Roberts, a 61-year-old woman who was reported missing over the weekend, has been found safe. That news came on Tuesday from the Montrose Police Department.

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Today, the City of Montrose and the United Methodist Church clash over a homeless encampment on church property. Later, the Dolphin House Child Advocacy Center marks 20 years of supporting children and families.

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Today, we visit Montrose’s first Goodwill store to learn how it’s helping the community beyond great deals. Later, we break down Colorado’s new Outdoors Strategy, a statewide plan to protect natural spaces and support recreation.

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