Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayJuly 2nd and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Today the Montrose Center for the Arts celebrates San Juan Mountain mining history and steam-powered narrow-gauge railroads that served them.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at www.elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story…

 

Today from 5—8 p.m., Montrose Center for the Arts celebrates San Juan Mountain mining history and steam-powered narrow-gauge railroads that served them.

 

Head over to meet railroad artist Jeff Ellingson. He’s the curator of the Durango Silverton Roundhouse Museum and renowned watercolorist. This special show is a community event.

 

The Lucky Stars from Ridgway, Daryl and Ted, will entertain with live music all evening, while guests visit with artists and enjoy adult libations, light appetizers and desserts. Jeff Ellingson loves to talk about trains and he’ll give a train talk at 6:30 p.m.

 

Tomorrow is also your final chance to bid on the Square Deal paintings, MCA’s June fundraiser.

 

The community event continues all month, with a special train talk at the Art Center, Wednesday, July 14th by Karl Schaffer, Ridgway Railroad Museum. Karl presents “Railroad History of the Uncompahgre Valley, Then and Now.”

 

Then, on Wednesday, July 21 Kathryn Burke, publisher of the “Bachelor Syracuse Mine” and magazines for Ouray, Silverton and the train, presented a visual and verbal description of the “Red Mountain Mining District and the Corkscrew Turntable.”

 

To find out more about these events visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

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You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR [this is pronounced just like neighbor] – your trusted neighborhood community. 

 

NABUR is a free online forum you can trust to connect with your community, focus on facts & make a difference. Join the conversation! Visit Nabur.montrosepress.com  

 

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Now, some local history. This week's local history is brought to you by England Fence. England Fence is family owned and operated, and they're ready to help you build your dream fence, archway, gate, or deck. Give them a call at 970-249-4430, or head over to their website englandfence.com.

 

Did you know that Grand Mesa, here in Colorado, is the largest flattop mountain in the world? With more than 500 square miles of land at an elevation of more than 10,000 feet, it’s another one of Colorado’s treasures. And with more than 300 lakes and miles and miles of hiking and biking trails, you can be sure to find an activity for everyone.

 

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And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of LaMoine Gene Brown of Montrose.

 

LaMoine was born in Nebraska in 1932. He graduated from Blue Hill High School and continued his studies at Grand Island Business College in accounting and general business. He was married to Donna Leah Lukas in 1951.

 

LaMoine’s long and storied career began as an ordinance worker at the US Naval Depot in Hastings, Nebraska, rebuilding failed bombs and other military ordinance. He next made the move to Montrose in 1956 where he started the Montrose Business College as the Director and as an instructor. Upon selling the Business College he purchased Professional Credit Management. He expanded the business to include four locations in Western Colorado and one in Utah before selling the business.

 

LaMoine served as Community Development Director for the City of Montrose and was instrumental in recruiting several new businesses to the Montrose area. He ended his career serving for several years as the VP of Marketing for Wells Fargo Bank.

 

During his time in Montrose, LaMoine served as a city councilman for eight years and served as mayor of Montrose for one term. His civic activities included Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce Red Coats, Associated Credit Bureaus of the Rockies. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church of Montrose since 1956.

 

LaMoine was known for his never-ending smile and his love of people. His priorities in life were family, church, community, friends and anyone else who needed help. He served as caretaker for his wife Donna for the last several years of her life.

 

Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate his life.

 

That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday June 30th and we’re here to bring you a closer look at our top stories, events and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Those who want to provide input and feedback to inform the state’s gray wolf reintroduction planning process will have their chance to do so. Locally, on July 21st.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story.

 

Those who want to provide input and feedback to inform the state’s gray wolf reintroduction planning process will have their chance on July 21.

 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Keystone Policy Center announced several in-person open house sessions on the restoration and management planning process for the gray wolf.

 

A Montrose open house will be held from 5 — 8 p.m. on July 21, at the Montrose Recreation District Field House. This is one of several meetings slated through July and August.

 

To give you a bit of background, Gray wolves are being reintroduced following a successful ballot measure in 2020. And some wolves have already been spotted in northern Colorado.

 

The measure, Prop 114, directed the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission to come up with a plan for wolf reintroduction and management before 2022.

 

The law also requires statewide hearings about scientific, economic and social considerations.

 

And although it was a statewide vote that is bringing gray wolves back, they are to be reintroduced in only some counties west of the Continental Divide. Not everywhere in Colorado.

 

Prop 114 drew strong opposition from the Western Slope, including Montrose County.

 

At the July 21 meeting, attendees will be able to share suggestions and concerns.

 

In addition to public listening sessions, CPW and Keystone launched a website where Coloradans will be able to provide comments via a detailed online comment form in July and August.

The new website is wolfengagementco.org.

 

CPW and Keystone will conduct a total of 14 in-person open house public listening sessions in regions throughout the state. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the open house in the region in which they reside.

 

To learn more about the process visit our full story at montrosepress.com

 

You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR [this is pronounced just like neighbor] – your trusted neighborhood community. 

 

NABUR is a free online forum you can trust to connect with your community, focus on facts & make a difference. Join the conversation! Visit Nabur.montrosepress.com

 

Next,  we’d like to take a  moment to remember the life of Viva Rash Schmitz

 

Viva was born in Oklahoma. She and her twin were the youngest of nine brothers and sisters. 

 

She loved Jesus, music, the mountains, gardening, reading, crocheting, sewing, cooking and her family. She was in the Air Force and was a college graduate. She worked at Walmart in the fabric department for several years. She was a patient, understanding mom.

 

She was also a much loved grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

 

Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Viva’s life.

 

That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayJune 28th and we’re here to bring you a closer look at our top stories, events and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - This week, the nonprofit Freedom Sings USA will return to Montrose for Freedom Sings USA Colorado. It’s a music therapy program that pairs veterans of the military with veteran songwriters. 

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at elevateinternet.com.

 

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Now, our feature story.

 

Music is personal. It’s also therapeutic. Perhaps especially for veterans or active military with stories to tell.

 

And this week, the nonprofit Freedom Sings USA will return to Montrose for Freedom Sings USA Colorado. It’s a music therapy program that pairs veterans of the military with veteran songwriters. 

 

The program begins with a two-day retreat during which songwriters work with the selected veterans to set their stories to music.

 

Afterwards, the community can hear those stories at a free concert.

 

The retreats first came to Montrose in 2019.

 

And although local host organization Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans used technology to have virtual songwriter-veteran sessions during the height of the pandemic last year, nothing beats face-to-face contact.

 

Mike Trickey, Welcome Home’s executive director, says they’re ecstatic.

 

The songs will be presented publicly at the community concert June 30, at The Bridges Golf and Country Club, starting at 6 p.m. The concert is free, but donations will be accepted.

 

Trickey says they’ll be playing the songs they’ve written themselves. 

 

People can hear, in a few short but powerful minutes, stories like that of the late Mary Calegari, who sat down with Dean and fellow writer Don Goodman in 2019, at the age of 96. Her story was one of a woman who decided to serve her country — and entered a military that was simply not yet prepared for the logistics of accommodating women.

 

The result was the song, “My Life Has Been A Good One”.

 

Songs like this can be found at freedomsingsusa.org.

 

Dr. David Good, The Bridges and Valkyrie Productions are sponsoring the retreat and concert.

 

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Before we go…

 

The Delta strain of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Delta County.

 

According to the Delta County Health Department, there were two identified cases as of Thursday last week.

 

And in Montrose County, there were three confirmed cases of the Delta variant as well. 

 

According to state data, only 44.7% of the eligible population in Montrose County had received at least one dose of a COVID vaccine so far.

 

And this Delta variant is considered significantly more transmissible than the first detected alpha variant. Now, seventy-five percent of all COVID-19 cases in Colorado are derived from the Delta variant.

 

Studies also indicate that the Delta variant causes more severe disease, with roughly double the hospitalization rate of the alpha variant.

 

The Delta variant was first detected in India and is widely regarded by public health experts to be one of the most transmissible and severe variants to date.

 

Delta County Public Health Director Karen O’Brien even said that the younger population is at heightened risk to get infected.

 

Luckily, vaccination is an effective way to prevent illness and variant spread.

 

So those who have not been vaccinated should visit montrosecountyjic.com for a list of places to receive a COVID vaccine.

 

Read our full story at montrosepress.com to find links to everywhere in Delta County where appointments can be made.

 

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That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayJune 25th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Alcohol takeout and delivery in Colorado is here to stay… at least for the next four years.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at www.elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story…

 

Alcohol takeout and delivery will be a reality for residents and visitors in Colorado over the next four years.

 

It was made official Tuesday, when Governor Jared Polis signed House Bill 21-1027. It allows certain alcohol license holders to offer alcohol to-go, or for delivery.

 

According to the bill, orders are limited to a 12-pack of beer, two bottles of wine and one liter of spirits.

 

Orders are restricted to the hours of 7 a.m. and midnight, and the bill also says restaurants can serve alcoholic drinks in communal outdoor dining areas. But only if it’s been approved by the local government.

 

The bill serves as a continuation of Polis’ executive order issued during the pandemic which allowed restaurants across the state sell to-go cocktails.

 

And, it’s also another nod to help small businesses — especially in the hospitality industry — recover financially after dealing with a difficult economic landscape for much of last year.

 

According to a survey from the Colorado Restaurant Association, Colorado restaurants collectively lost more than $3 billion in 2020. Of the 195, 95% said they’re making money from alcohol to-go sales. 62% reported the bill is helping them survive.

 

One local business thriving off the service was Storm King Distilling. Owner David Fishering said the business’ to-go cocktails made up 50% of revenue in May 2020.

 

The to-go service is nowhere near those figures now, but at that time it was a pivotal security blanket.

 

Fishering said the demand for it has leveled off considerably. But he still plans to keep it around, calling it “convenient”. 

 

The bill, which received bipartisan support, will take effect as the initial order expires. It’ll last until July 1, 2025.

 

To learn more visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

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Now, some local history. This week's local history is brought to you by England Fence. England Fence is family owned and operated, and they're ready to help you build your dream fence, archway, gate, or deck. Give them a call at 970-249-4430, or head over to their website englandfence.com.

Did you know that Olathe is a statutory town in Montrose? Named for the town of the same name in Kansas, they host the Sweet Corn Festival every year. Right now, it’s scheduled to return on August 7th. Previously, artists like Clint Black, three dog night, styx, Lee ann Rimes, Wynonna Judd, and Eddie Money have rocked and rolled the stage.

 

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And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of Regina Mae Joens

 

Regina was born in 1951 in Montrose. She lived in Dolores for her childhood years and moved back to Olathe. She was the fourth generation to graduate from Olathe High School in 1969. 

 

Regina married her high school sweetheart Larry Huff, who passed away in a trucking accident in 1975. She later married Brent Joens in 1980; together they had two daughters.

 

Regina worked for Montrose County Health and Human Services for 29 years. She was very passionate about her work where she took great pride in working for the county. She loved to help people and touched many lives and helped many people through times of need.

 

Regina loved to spend time with her children and grandchildren; she enjoyed watching them play sports, taking them to the movies and having sleepovers with Pepsi popsicles. Her children and grandchildren were her entire world and she devoted her life to them.

 

She will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Regina’s life.

 

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That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday June 23rd and we’re here to bring you a closer look at our top stories, events and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - On Thursday, June 17th, Governor Jared Polis signed a historic $5.3 billion transportation bill into law.  So how will this affect Montrose, and you?

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at elevateinternet.com.

 

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Now, our feature story.

 

On Thursday, June 17th, Governor Jared Polis signed a historic $5.3 billion transportation bill into law. 

 

The bill passed with minimal Republican support. It relies on increased fees to fund infrastructure projects. The goal is to alleviate the $9 billion backlog in new projects and maintenance.

 

Sponsors first hoped they could pass the bill earlier in the legislative session. But it couldn’t be passed until the last few days because it was so controversial. Democrats and Republicans disagreed about the funding mechanism and the scope of infrastructure.

 

And because of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights any tax increases need to be approved by voters. 

 

However, lawmakers have more flexibility with raising fees. Still, conservative activists are brainstorming a ballot measure that would curb the gas taxes.

 

According to the bill, around $3.8 billion will be raised from an increase in gas taxes and fees on deliveries and rideshare apps.

 

So what does this mean for you? 

 

Starting in July of 2022, Coloradans will notice slightly higher prices at the pump. It will continue to increase by one cent per gallon for the following eight years.

 

Colorado’s current gas tax is the 12th-lowest in the US. It hasn’t been increased since 1992.

The majority of the money will fund road infrastructure projects all over the state. It also emphasizes projects for electric vehicles and mass transit. 

 

And, it requires that the Department of Transportation look at the impact of future greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of projects on low-income communities.

 

The geographic distribution of the funding is still to be determined, but Montrose Public Works Manager Jim Scheid said that the city has many projects planned that just need funding.

 

One of those projects is a bypass around the city to divert traffic off of Townsend Avenue.

 

And although most cities around the US — including Montrose — were built out to suit automobile traffic, Montrose’s plan includes goals to improve multi-modal transit.

 

To learn more about this story visit us at Montrosepress.com

 

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You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR [this is pronounced just like neighbor] – your trusted neighborhood community. 

 

NABUR is a free online forum you can trust to connect with your community, focus on facts & make a difference. Join the conversation! Visit Nabur.myheraldreview.com 

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Next,  

 

Did you know that June is National Great Outdoors Month? The library can help you make the most of your journey.

 

In the library, there are several wonderful books on our National Parks.

 

There’s also a Rand McNally Road Altas and an Altas of the National Parks in the oversize collection. Perfect for planning your vacation route.

 

And on the shelves in the travel section, you’ll find travel guides by experts that cross continents and span the globe. 

 

These guides have been updated to include the latest in travel guidelines and operating hours for the most popular attractions and those off the beaten path.

 

If exploring the Centennial State is on your agenda, you’re also in luck. 

“Hiking Through History Colorado” by Robert Hurst has 40 hikes from around the state for all skill levels.

 

Or maybe a staycation is more your style? Check out the “Take a Closer Look: A Montrose Walking Tour Guide” to learn the history of our town and perhaps take in one of our outstanding museums.

 

Wherever you’re headed the folks at the Montrose Regional library are there to help.

 

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That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayJune 21st and we’re here to bring you a closer look at our top stories, events and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - A Montrose High graduate recently attempted to qualify to compete for the United States in swimming at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story.

 

Ryan King has been swimming for 15 years. Being in the pool has become an important part of his life.

 

And earlier this month King attempted to qualify to compete for the United States in swimming at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. He swam in front of hundreds of people, and in an arena that could easily seat near 20,000 in a normal year.

 

The U.S. Olympic Team Trials are considered the biggest stage for swimmers across the nation.

 

Swimming in the 400 individual medley, he placed fifth in his wave.

 

Though nervous at first, King’s coaches said he swam with confidence.

 

With King swimming sure of himself,  participation at the trials was enough to realize the kind of doors an event like that opens.

 

To him, it’s great motivation to take his training to the next level.

 

Fittingly, after the trials, he went back to Northwestern and finished finals, and hung out with friends and family.

 

Before swimming at Northwestern, King was a standout swimmer at Montrose High School. He was a 4A state champion in 2018 in the 500 free. At one point he was named the No. 1 swimmer in Colorado. King chose Northwestern over Princeton, Yale and Indiana.

 

King’s hard work is by design. He’s out the door and on his way to the practice facility, for 6 a.m. practice six days a week. The team also has a two-hour practice in the afternoon.

He’s in the pool at least 20 hours a week. He says it’s a grind, but he’s used to it now — he’s been swimming competitively since he was five years old — and isn’t satisfied with just getting better, not in the slightest.

 

King said he might train an extra year for an Olympic run, but could easily enjoy the sport as a hobby post-college. 

 

But to finish his collegiate career at Northwestern, he wants to focus on what makes his experience at the university fun — enjoying the journey with teammates and coaches. 

 

He’s also an economics major with a minor in computer science.

 

To read more about King’s great achievements read our full story at montrosepress.com

 

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And before we go we’d like to remember the life of Mary Ellen Coffee

 

Mary Ellen Coffee was born in Kansas. The Dust Bowl forced the family to leave and move to Montrose, Colorado, in 1937. 

 

Mary Ellen graduated from Montrose High School in 1949. Later, She met and married Vernon “Red” Dolan. They eventually settled in Cortez. Tragically, Vernon passed away suddenly in 1961, leaving his 28-year-old wife and four children.

 

Mary Ellen married a second time and moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico. That union ended in divorce in 1975. 

 

Then, in 1977, Mary Ellen married Earl M. Coffee who gave her the life she deserved. With her children raised, Mary Ellen and Earl were able to travel all over the world, to places she never imagined she would go. Mary Ellen lost Earl in 1997 and returned to Montrose in 1998 to help take care of her father.

 

Her spirit continues in her children, 13 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren and her longtime companion Robert “Red” Keenan.

 

Mary Ellen was loved and will be missed terribly. 

 

A viewing will be held from 5 — 7 p.m. tomorrow at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel. The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday.

 

Thank you for taking a moment with us to remember and celebrate Mary Ellen’s life.

 

That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayJune 18th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - A recently passed bill bans Native American mascots at public schools in Colorado. This means Montrose High School and Centennial Middle School need to select new mascots. Otherwise they may need to pay a $25,000 monthly fine. 

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at www.elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story…

 

Montrose High School needs a new mascot.

 

A recently passed bill bans Native American mascots at public schools in Colorado. This means Montrose High School and Centennial Middle School need to select new mascots. Otherwise they may need to pay a $25,000 monthly fine. 

 

Montrose County School District spokesman Matt Jenkins explained that at this point, it’s out of their hands because it’s required by law.

 

Montrose High School’s current mascot is the Indians. A totem pole is still prominently displayed on the football field. The mascot for Centennial Middle School is the Braves and the official logo is a Native American man wearing a headdress.

 

Jenkins elaborated that selecting a new mascot will be a “community effort” over the course of the next 12 months.

 

He also said that the school mascot is rich in culture, and the community holds tightly to the pride they have in their high school mascot. 

 

So what exactly does the Bill state?

 

Senate Bill 21-116 bans Native American mascots from publicly funded Colorado schools starting. If schools have agreements with a Native American tribe to use the mascot, then they are allowed to keep the mascot. One example of this is Arapahoe High School in Littleton.

 

Discussions to change Montrose’s mascot have been underway since at least 2002, when a Greeley-based group called for change. Then, in 2015, a similar bill failed in the senate.

 

But now, with Democratic control in both chambers, the newer version of the ban was passed.

 

One thing to note is that the elected officials representing Montrose at the capitol voted against the bill.

 

Governor Jared Polis is expected to sign the bill into law soon. Approximately 24 schools across Colorado will be affected.

 

To learn more visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

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Now, some local history. This week's local history is brought to you by England Fence. England Fence is family owned and operated, and they're ready to help you build your dream fence, archway, gate, or deck. Give them a call at 970-249-4430, or head over to their website englandfence.com.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park contains the deepest and most dramatic section of the canyon. The canyon's name owes itself to the fact that parts of the gorge only receive 33 minutes of sunlight a day.

 

Native Americans had known the canyon to exist for a long time before the first Europeans saw it. 

 

They are known to have avoided the canyon out of superstition. The first official account of the Black Canyon was provided by Captain John Williams Gunnison in 1853.

 

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And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of Mardell June Sanburg Sanders. Mardell was born to a pioneer family who arrived in the Montrose area in the 1870s. 

 

Mardell was an adventurous child, who tagged along behind her older siblings. She told stories of how she rode bareback on horses that the family raised for the U.S. Cavalry. 

 

As a child, she attended school in Montrose and graduated from Montrose High School. She then attended Western State College and Mesa College. She married Shirley Sanders in 1953. To this union they had five children.

 

Her spirit continues in her children, their spouses and her 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

 

Mardell was a mother, a rancher and a real estate mogul. She had a unique way of letting a sassy child or animal know they were on the wrong path. She loved animals, loved to drive fast, and loved a good cup of coffee. 

 

She had a great sense of humor and would light up her grandchildren even at the end. She was generous to a fault. Her last wish was for everyone to be kind to each other.

 

Mardell will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us to remember and celebrate her life.

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That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday June 16th and we’re here to bring you a closer look at our top stories, events and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Benezet Realty Partners and VCM Global Asset Management have purchased the Russell Stover manufacturing facility. And they already have big plans.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at elevateinternet.com.

 

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Now, our feature story.

 

Last August, Mitchell Bennett, CEO of Benezet Realty Partners was in Montrose, working with local producers on the Western Slope through a USDA grant.  Benezet Realty Partners is a real estate investment company focused on food logistics, storage and production solutions.

 

Bennett was already a fan of the area and its proximity to other regional towns, as well as the growing community. 

 

And coincidentally, while in Montrose, the Russell Stover manufacturing facility was up for sale.

 

The company hadn't come close to completing an acquisition of that size before. But as Bennett continued to work with local producers, conversations resonated with him.

 

So Bennett took the opportunity to walk through the plant. It didn’t take him long to see the facility’s year-round and long-term potential.

 

His decision became clear.

 

But with a purchase of that size, he needed capital. Bennett reached out locally first.

 

Then he reached out to long-time friend Tom Vukota, founder and CEO of VCM Global Asset Management. 

 

The chance to purchase one of the largest facilities between Salt Lake City and Denver was exciting for the two.

 

The sale was finalized and announced last week. And VCM and Benezet already plan to upgrade the facility.

The facility — now dubbed the Western Slope Food and Innovation Center — expects to play an immense role in Colorado’s broader food production value chain. 

 

The plant is expected to contribute to food waste reduction while adding potentially hundreds of jobs.

 

Bennet noted that, because the region is in severe drought, preservation is all the more important. The pandemic, too, has caused disruption to producers and distributors, so the facility has the potential to provide immediate value.

 

That potential boost has already been acknowledged. Benezet has received immediate interest from companies to move into the property, so much so that they’ve already compiled a lengthy list.

 

And with so much interest, Benezet is trying to figure out how to bring in multiple tenants into the property.

To learn more about this story visit us at Montrosepress.com

 

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Next,  

 

Montrose got funky on Saturday while celebrating its first FUNC Fest since 2019 at Riverbottom Park.

 

The festival saw around 5,000 people come and go throughout the day. With more than 40 vendors, food trucks included, the festival more than doubled its usual vendor count.

 

The Grand Jun Beverage Company, San Juan Mobile Brews, Bravo food truck, Polar Express Ice Cream Truck, Truckin’ Delicious, HOBO’s Food Truck, Taste of New Orleans Snowballs, CMC Bakery and Corndawg’s Hotdawg Cart were all set up in the food truck court next to the music section of the festival.

 

And the Montrose Recreation District sponsored the kid’s zone near the entrance of the park.

 

The Black Canyon Rotary Club provided their annual Beer and Wine Garden. They even had to call in for more kegs of beer.

 

And Sports Rewind and Montrose Surf and Cycle both provided rentals for the river throughout the day, from paddle boards, kick boards and anything people could use on the water. 

 

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That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayJune 14th and we’re here to bring you a closer look at our top stories, events and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Montrose’s plan to help restaurants during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic won a Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story.

 

Montrose’s plan to help restaurants during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic won a Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence.

 

The City of Montrose’s Development and Revitalization Team and the Colorado Yurt Company were selected for their partnered program, “Tipi the Town.” 

 

So how did Tipi the Town come together?

 

It all began in the fall of 2020 when Montrose based Colorado Yurt Company teamed up with D.A.R.T to help local restaurants adapt to COVID restrictions.

 

With occupancy limits, restaurants needed creative solutions to provide seating. 

 

Enter tipis!

 

The tipis allowed diners to sit together in enclosed eating areas that were separate from other patrons and crowds.

 

DART staff reached out to John Gibson, the owner and CEO of the Colorado Yurt Company, to see if the company had options using their yurts and tipis. That’s when Gibson came up with the idea for “Tipi the Town”.

 

They used Tipis that had previously been used in festivals. But with music festivals also shuttered in 2020, the tipis were free to be repurposed.

 

So, the Colorado Yurt provided tipis free to the businesses while the city utilized government-dispersed COVID relief funds to cover expenses. The city also hired a local company to build the platforms.

 

The unique partnership enabled local restaurants to provide outdoor seating for their guests and to continue to operate. 

 

In total, 11 tipis and two outdoor enclosures were made available to seven local restaurants.

 

And even now, with restrictions easing, some businesses will continue to provide tipis for their guests!

 

We’ll keep you up to date on this story at montrosepress.com

 

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And before we go we’d like to remember the life of Kay Blair

 

Kay was born in Franklin, Tennessee. She graduated from Franklin High School and went on to attend Rhodes College, Peabody at Vanderbilt. Then, she received her bachelor’s of science degree from the University of Memphis in 1964. 

 

After school, she married Edward Blair in Leadville. Edward was the son of Darrell and Marie Blair who are from Montrose.

 

Kay worked as a copy editor at The Methodist Publishing House. In 1969, she was named the Colorado Broadcasters Association’s Woman of the Year in Radio. Later she retired from the Department of Labor after 25-plus years. She was published in nonfiction articles and books. Her hobbies included working with miniatures and gardening. 

 

And she loved cats.

 

She’ll be greatly missed by her family and friends. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Kay’s life.

 

That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayJune 11th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - A freshly signed anti-bullying law honoring the memory of a Montrose teenager who died by suicide in 2015 is a building block for ending bullying.

 

Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevate Internet. Whether it’s for your home or your business they offer the best speeds at the best price. Right now, if you refer a friend you can get $25 off! Give them a call for more information at 844-386-8744 or visit them at www.elevateinternet.com.

 

Now, our feature story…

 

A freshly signed anti-bullying law honoring the memory of a Montrose teenager who died by suicide in 2015 is a building block for ending bullying.

 

Maya Haynes of Montrose and her husband, Todd, were in Denver Monday to witness Gov. Jared Polis sign House Bill 1221. 

 

Its official title is Bullying and Prevention in Schools — but it is more poignantly known as Jack and Cait’s Law. It’s named for the Haynes’ late daughter, Caitlyn, and Jack Padilla, a Cherry Creek teenager who also died by suicide.

 

When Haynes refers to kids, she does not only mean her daughter. She means both other victims of bullying — and those who bully.

 

Jack and Cait’s law requires the Colorado Department of Education to use a certain process for bullying prevention. The process has to include parents of students who were subjected to bullying. This policy has to make clear the difference between a conflict and bullying.

 

Current law already requires specific policy for preventing bullying. But this  bill requires that incidents of bullying be listed as a separate type of violation.

 

Under the final version of Jack and Cait’s Law bullying as grounds for suspension or expulsion was stricken.

 

Why? According to Haynes, that’s  not  a long-term solution.

 

After Cait’s death in 2015, Haynes established the nonprofit PEER Kindness, an anti-bullying and support foundation.

 

Then, Haynes and Todd met with Padilla’s family and Senator Don Coram, as well as House Sponsors Lisa Cutter, and Mary Young. Together, they crafted a bill they felt comfortable lending their daughter’s name to.

 

In order for Cait’s name to be on the bill, the family wanted the suspension and expulsion language removed. 

 

Conflict between students is not always the same thing as bullying. She says the more support, the more lives we are going to be able to save.

 

Coram said he was proud to sponsor the bill in the Senate.

 

The Haynes family advocated for the bill and also have maintained PEER Kindness. Padilla’s parents, Rick and Jeanine also began advocacy work after the devastating loss of Jack, who was 15 when he died in 2019.

 

The bill’s provisions direct education toward those who bully, rather than only addressing their victims.

 

To learn more visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

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Now, some local history. This week's local history is brought to you by England Fence. England Fence is family owned and operated, and they're ready to help you build your dream fence, archway, gate, or deck. Give them a call at 970-249-4430, or head over to their website englandfence.com.

Richard E. Fike founded the Museum of theMountain West in 1997. He is a retired historical archaeologist having served as state archaeologist for the Bureau of Land Management in both Utah and Colorado. 

 

Fike served on committees in both Utah and Colorado for the Federal & State Register of Historic Places and is an expert in historical restoration. He began collecting western memorabilia when he was just 4 years old. He had his first museum in his parent’s guest room at the age of 8. 

 

By age 12, he had begun his card catalog of artifacts. This Museum is the result of Fike’s lifetime dedication to preserving the history of the west.

 

The Museum was incorporated in 2005. The artifacts, buildings, and grounds have been being donated by the Fikes for the education and enjoyment of visitors for generations to come.

 

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And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of 

 

Ralph Lowery of Ridgway. He was born in 1962 in Montrose. As a boy, he could be found playing in the dirt with his trucks and GI Joes. He had a love of adventure and adrenaline through his overnight horseback rides and motorcycle escapades. 

 

He attended Ridgway High School where he participated in photography, basketball, baseball, skiing, and cruising in his beloved Mustang. 

 

After graduating in 1980, Ralph continued his education, and got a certificate in automotive technology. Ralph then returned to Ridgway and Dallas Creek Ranch where he joined his father as an operator for Lowery Excavating.

 

Ralph married Shawna Brickey in 1981. Together they had 2 daughters. One of Ralph’s greatest joys was being a father and passing on his love of camping, riding horses, and muscle cars.

 

In 1990, Ralph met and married Storme Lea Zanett. Together they created many friendships and memories while enjoying country drives, supporting the community, and entertaining friends and family.

 

Ralph was happiest behind the handlebars of his Harley Davidson. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with those he loved, telling stories, and creating laughter and memories. Ralph cherished visits from his daughters and grandchildren, his nieces and nephews, and dearest friends. He loved fiercely and prided himself on teaching and helping others. His laughter and hugs will be greatly missed.

 

Thank you for taking the time to remember and celebrate Ralph’s life.

 

That’s all for today, thank you for listening! For more information on any of these stories visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

And don’t forget to check out our sponsor, Elevate Internet. Visit them at elevateinternet.com to learn more.

 

For more than 137 years, The Montrose Daily Press has been dedicated to shining a light on all the issues that matter to our community. Go to montrosepress.com to subscribe for just $1.99 per week for our digital edition. You’ll get unlimited access to every story, feature, and special section. Thank you and remember to tune in again next time on montrosepress.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.