Montrose Fresh

Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayJuly 16th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - The Montrose real estate market is mirroring the boom in most markets across the country.

 

Inventory is tight and wealthy out-of-town buyers with deep pockets are pricing out locals desperate for a home.

 

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…

 

The Montrose real estate market is mirroring the boom in most markets across the country.

 

Inventory is tight and wealthy out-of-town buyers with deep pockets are pricing out locals desperate for a home.

 

According to recently released data from the Colorado Association of Realtors, the median sales price of $367,000 is nearly 30% higher than in June of last year. 

 

Only a month and half’s supply of homes is on the market, compared to over four months at this point last year.

 

Meanwhile, available rentals are few and far between, which is leaving many home seekers without anywhere to go in the area.

 

Debi Harmon, a Montrose real estate agent, said first-time home buyers often start looking for a home with enthusiasm. But now they’re becoming discouraged and frustrated by multiple rejected offers and lost bidding wars.

 

For example, Harmon has already written six offers for a client with a “healthy budget”.  They’ve been beaten in a bidding war every time.

 

Valerie Meyers, another local realtor, tells buyers to connect with a real estate agent, and brace themselves for quick decisions and competition in the fast-moving market.

Big city residents are continuing to move to Montrose and surrounding communities…

 

But is this trend sustainable?

 

To find out more about this story visit us at montrosepress.com.

 

You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR.

 

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 the Cimarron Canyon trestle is a narrow-gauge railroad deck truss bridge crossing the Cimarron River near Montrose? 

 

Located within the Curecanti National Recreation Area, the trestle is the last remaining railroad bridge along the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad's Black Canyon route, a narrow-gauge passenger and freight line that traversed the famous Black Canyon of the Gunnison between 1882 and the 1940s. It was placed on the national register of historic places in the 1976.

 

-

 

Before we go ---

 

Prep your throwing arm and work on your aim. The inaugural Bosom Buddies Cornhole Tournament is taking place later this month on July 24th.

 

The proceeds will help the local breast cancer patient and survivor support organization continue to serve community members. 

 

Like many nonprofits, Bosom Buddies took a financial hit when 2020 pandemic restrictions nixed its traditional fundraisers. 

 

The 2020 restrictions meant Bosom Buddies had to postpone what would have been its first cornhole tournament. 

 

But this year it’s on. And Bosom Buddies is still looking for more teams to compete in the tournament. So far about 25 teams have signed up and there is space for about 60.

 

The cost is $35 per person. Teams are composed of two people. 

 

Walk-up registration/warm-up begins at 10:30 a.m., with the tournament starting at 11 a.m.

 

People can also bid on silent auction items, as well as on a 50/50 drawing. There also will be food and drinks including Sno-Balls and fry bread.

 

You can read our full story on the sentencing at montrosepress.com.

 

-

 

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 July 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 County School District is still waiting for official COVID guidelines from the state.

 

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 County School District is still waiting for official COVID guidelines from the state.

 

District spokesman Matt Jenkins said he predicts that the local policy won’t be more aggressive than what the state decides. 

 

Governor Jared Polis did drop the statewide mandate in schools. Now, districts decide if fully vaccinated people can go maskless. 

 

And on July 1, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment announced that masks are no longer required in public schools for unvaccinated adults and children 11 and older. 

 

Jenkins said that the CDPHE and the Colorado Department of Education are working on new guidance for school districts that will be released next month.

 

He predicts that the district will still encourage mask wearing in schools.

 

Many teachers received vaccinations when they first became eligible in February, but the district has not yet said they’ll require vaccinations.

 

But other educational institutions in Colorado have already announced vaccination requirements for staff. 

 

Aurora Public Schools announced in May that all school staff are required to receive a COVID vaccination.

And many of Colorado’s major public colleges, including the University of Colorado, joined thousands of other colleges and universities when a COVID vaccination requirement for students, staff and faculty was announced in April.

 

In Montrose, students 12 and older, who became eligible for the vaccine in May, are strongly encouraged to get shots before the start of the school year.

 

During the previous academic year, the state provided rapid testing to the district.

 

And although Colorado’s pandemic-related regulations are being relaxed, the state is planning on deploying $173 million of federal funding to boost testing in public schools. 

 

The goal is to test students and staff every week. 

 

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

 

You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR, Next,  

 

Outdoor recreation was already on the rise over the past years. But it kicked up when COVID restrictions closed off other entertainment options.

 

So it’s understandable that the U.S. Forest Service is looking for hard data about the uses of and visitor experience at the Blue Lakes area. 

 

Because of the surge in visitors, officials have reported management challenges, and safety issues. 

 

Now, Western Colorado University’s Center for Public Lands is leading a study. A webinar is slated for July 22nd.

 

The Blue Lakes public feedback project aims to gather the information needed for future management decisions. The information they’ll seek includes the number of visitors and what they use the area for. They’ll also look at water quality.

The Forest Service will also conduct an environmental analysis for the Blue Lakes planning area that assesses trails, facilities, parking, and signs. 

 

To learn more about where you can submit your feedback visit the full story at montrosepress.com.

 

-

 

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 MondayJuly 12th 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 - Authorities in Delta County reported finding guns, drugs, ammo and cash during Friday searches of homes in Delta homes and Austin.

 

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.

 

Authorities in Delta County reported finding guns, drugs, ammo and cash during Friday searches of homes in Delta homes and Austin.

 

45 year old Lonny Len Hilbers of Austin was detained on suspicion of drug distribution or manufacturing. He was also detained for unlawful possession of drugs, and possession of a weapon by a previous offender.

 

Hilbers cooperated with authorities and was arrested without incident.

 

The DCSO, DPD, 7th Judicial District Drug Task Force, Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation conducted a months-long investigation. 

 

Eventually they secured the search warrants and served them on Friday.

 

The agents seized more than 2 ounces of methamphetamine.

 

They also seized hundreds of fentanyl pills, possible psychedelic mushrooms, cash, and drug paraphernalia. They also found evidence involving other criminal activity.

 

The investigation remains active. And for now, not all details are public.

 

Coordination between agency partners was crucial to hitting all three places at once.

 

Ultimately Hilbers was jailed without bail on Friday afternoon.

 

Check in at montrosepress.com for more information on this story.

Visit Nabur.montrosepress.com

Before we go we’d like to take a moment to remember Dallas Allan Wright.

 

Dallas passed away peacefully on June 28th at UC Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs. He was surrounded by his wife and daughter holding his hand after a courageous battle with cancer. 

 

Dallas was born in Spirit Lake, Idaho.

 

He was the third of five children and grew up in Hayden Lake, Idaho. 

 

During his sophomore year of high school, he moved to Alaska, where he graduated. 

 

Dallas and Tammy met in 1984 in Anchorage, Alaska, and started their life together. They lived in Joseph, Oregon and he worked at the local sawmill as a superintendent until it was closed down. 

 

Then, they moved to Montrose, Colorado, where they became lifelong residents. 

 

He worked as a plant superintendent at Montrose Forest Products for 27 years. His entire life was all about wood. He could tell you anything about trees. Dallas always smelt of freshly cut timber and sap.

 

Thank you for taking a moment with us to remember and celebrate Dallas’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 FridayJuly 9th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Governor Jared Polis signed SB 21-116 into law last week, which bans Colorado public schools from having Native American mascots. If schools don’t comply with the new law, they’ll face a monthly fine.

 

The new law affects two local schools…. the Montrose High School Indians and the Centennial Middle School Braves.

 

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…

 

Uniforms. Murals. Gym weights.

 

These are a few of the many items emblazoned with the Montrose Indians logo that will need to be redone by the start of June 2022.

 

Governor Jared Polis signed SB 21-116 into law last week, which bans Colorado public schools from having Native American mascots. If schools don’t comply with the new law, they will face a $25,000 monthly fine.

 

The new law affects two local schools: the Montrose High School Indians and the Centennial Middle School Braves.

 

Matt Jenkins, a spokesman for the Montrose County School District, sketched out the prospective timeline of the process to choose a new mascot. 

 

He said the process to begin the mascot change will start in late July when the school principals are back in the office. They’ll first take inventory and assess what exactly needs to be changed.

 

MCSD Superintendent Carrie Stephenson estimated at the last school board meeting that the switch will cost approximately $500,000 to $750,000. 

 

That’s for both Centennial and Montrose High. 

 

Luckily, the district can apply for a state-funded grant program to cover the costs of switching the mascot.

 

Denver South High School independently moved to change their mascot from the “Rebels,” a reference to the Confederacy. The switch to the “Ravens” cost the school nearly $350,000.

 

As soon as the new mascot is determined, Jenkins hoped that the process of revamping the facilities would start by January or February of next year. D

 

And despite some pushback from community members about the mascot change, Jenkins said that the district will move forward in accordance with the law.

 

To find out more about this story visit us 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  

 

-

 

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 Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway was founded in 1919? Though the springs had long been used by Ute Native Americans, the land ended up in the hands of the Orvis family through a mix of squatting and the relocation of the Ute people to Utah. Originally called the Orvis Plunge, it pumped very hot water into a swimming pool, attracting visitors to refresh and rejuvenate in the lithium-filled water. Eventually, the property was improved to include a number of buildings and other services. While it was sold off to a number of owners in the intervening years (and picked up a clothing-optional rule that stuck), today, it might hardly be recognizable to those who would have visited in the 1920s.

 

-

 

Before we go 

 

The family of Christopher Blunt told the young man who struck and killed him to do one thing… come out of prison as the type of man their nephew, brother and husband was.

 

Blunt’s widow said that poor choices were made that day. This was at the sentencing of Tyler Hilton.

 

Hilton, now 19, chose to drink underage, to use marijuana and to drive while intoxicated the morning of March 16, 2020. And while Hilton was driving down the shoulder to pass people on North Townsend Avenue he struck Christopher Blunt on his bicycle. He also left it to other motorists to tend to the mortally injured man. He returned only at his mother’s urging.

 

Earlier this year Hilton pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide-DUI. 

 

On Tuesday he was sentenced to a stipulated term of six years in prison.

 

And according to Hilton’s attorney just in the time since March 16, 2020, Hilton has changed from the angry person who blamed Blunt for his own death, to a sincerely remorseful man.

 

You can read our full story on the sentencing at montrosepress.com.

-

 

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 July 7th 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 year, the drought is affecting available feed on permitted grazing allotments, as well as the price of hay on the market.

 

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.

 

Ken Lichleiter remembers a half-dozen years back, when his cattle commanded about $3,000 a head at sale.

 

This year is different — alarmingly so. Drought is affecting available feed on permitted grazing allotments, as well as the price of hay on the market.

 

In fact, Lichleiter, who runs permits on Sanborn Park has thinned his herd to 328 after selling 100. 

 

They fetched about $1,800 a head, despite being better cattle than what he sold six years ago for $3,000 each.

 

And on top of that hay in the valley is as high as some have ever seen it.

 

Those who spoke with the Montrose Daily Press reported good crops so far, but also pressures from rising fuel costs and other behind-the-scenes expenses that affect what they charge.

 

On top of these expenses some growers won’t be getting a second cutting because their water rights are insufficient for the available water supply. 

 

A lot of people are struggling.

 

Lichleiter said he’s taken a 40% cut to his grazing already and the U.S. Forest Service wants to cut further. 

 

He found a little extra land to lease as pasture and has purchased some extra hay. He’s also holding onto heifers and the best of his stock as he considers his options. A good snowpack that’s at least 100% of normal this winter is critical to going forward.

 

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

 

Also - The Ridgway Marshal's Office is seeking information as to the possible whereabouts of Paul Mcelera of Ridgway.

 

He was last seen leaving his residence on July 5, on his vintage motorcycle.

 

He was wearing a black helmet, and a black leather jacket.

 

Anyone with information is asked to call 970-249-9110 or 970-626-5196.

You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR.

 

Next,  

 

Montrose native Shantel Tubbs traveled to Oklahoma last month for the American Quarter Horse Association Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships.

 

Showing Anna Marie Taz, Gracey is her barn name, Tubbs captured the All-Around Rookie Novice Amateur Reserve World Champion title. 

 

She bested 21 other participants, placing second, earning her reserve honors with rewards that included a custom designed silver trophy, sterling silver buckle, a reserve world champion patch and ribbon, a sponsorship by The American Quarter Horse Journal and hundreds in cash prizes.

 

Congratulations Shantel!

 

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 Monday July 5th 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 - You’ve probably stopped at a local gas station recently and had to do a double-take when you saw that the gas pumps were unavailable.

 

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.

 

You’ve probably stopped at a local gas station recently and had to do a double-take when you saw that the gas pumps were unavailable.

 

In fact, there’s been two known instances of this in Montrose the past two weeks. On June 22nd, at the City Market pumps. 

And on July 1st, at City Market south, where about half of the pumps were temporarily out of service.

 

Skyler McKinley is the regional director of public affairs for AAA Colorado. 

 

McKinley told us that he first became aware of the issue two months ago. But he noted that it’s been sporadic… there haven’t been extended shortages.

 

As of Friday, Montrose is the fifth known county in Colorado to be affected by the labor shortage. 

 

The others are Fremont, El Paso and Pueblo counties, as well as Denver.

 

McKinley offered some reasoning to the delivery disruptions...

 

First, with thousands of Coloradans mostly shuttered in their homes last year during the pandemic, demand for gas lowered. This left petroleum drivers to deliver other goods instead.

 

It’s also no help that, according to industry trade group National Tank Truck Drivers, around 25 percent of tank trucks across the nation sit idle due to lack of drivers

 

Also, last mile delivery has been delayed, and it “can be difficult” to ramp that up quickly.

 

And finally, it’s the peak of summer driving season. This means people are fueling up early and often. 

 

Demand is high, and gas prices are at their highest since 2014, with Colorado at a current average of $3.31. 

 

Nationally, it’s $3.01.

 

This doesn’t mean you’re out of luck, or that you’ll be forced to pay for mid-grade or premium. You’ll probably just have to head to the next closest station.

 

Until the situation is solved, here are some suggestions...

 

Don’t panic buy.

 

Be aware of where your local gas stations are, and be prepared to make more than one stop.

 

To learn more visit our full story at montrosepress.com

 

-

You can also stay up to date on stories just like this by joining NABUR.

 

Next,  

 

We’d like to take a moment to remember the life of Ruth M. Richards, a life-long resident of Colorado.  She passed away at the age of 105.

 

Ruth was the third of six children. She grew up in Olathe, where she attended Stone School from first through eighth grade and then attended Olathe High School. 

 

While in school, she met Ed Richards and in 1934, the couple were married in Delta. 

 

Ruth and Ed moved to Montrose where Ed worked for Uncompahgre Valley Water Users. The only time that Ruth lived outside of Colorado was when her husband Ed worked for Rio Grande MotorWays and the couple located to Price, Utah for three months. 

 

The couple eventually returned to Montrose where Ruth worked at Reeds Variety Store, Allison’s Clothing Store, Ideal Food Market and other places throughout the years.

 

Ruth was a child of the Great Depression, which had a profound effect on her entire life. She was a devout Christian who trusted and believed that God would always provide. She attended the Assembly of God Church and the Christian Church until her health no longer allowed. Ruth had many enjoyments in her life such as quilting, crocheting, and sewing; however, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

 

Thank you for taking a moment with us to remember and celebrate Ruth’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 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.

 

-

 

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  

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.

 

-

 

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.