Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayFebruary 22nd 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 -  We’re taking a look at how some of Governor Jared Polis' plans align with developments in Montrose.

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

Standing before lawmakers in his State of the State address on Wednesday, Governor Jared Polis discussed year long challenges the state has faced because of the pandemic and other factors.

He also talked about the future in Colorado, a future that could be aided by tax cuts, the expansion of broadband internet access, and upgrading roads.

Polis has alluded to his more-than-$1 billion economic stimulus plan - a plan that could create thousands of jobs for the economy.

During his speech, Polis said he wants to get rid of special interest tax breaks and use the savings to lower taxes. 

He also said he’s focused on eliminating the business personal property tax to benefit thousands of small businesses.

In addition, he wants to provide up to $600 per child through the Colorado Child Tax Credit and stop taxing Social Security benefits for seniors.

Polis noted that meeting these goals should not only help jumpstart Colorado and boost the economy, but will improve the quality of life for Coloradans.

The message drew applause from the crowd.

The $24 million raised for the Colorado COVID Relief Fund was also highlighted.

But how do these goals align with current developments in Montrose?

A few topics in particular that were brought up, aligned with the potential future of Montrose. 

One of those has been a hot topic in recent months. Affordable housing.

Montrose’s push for affordable housing dates back to at least 2016.

Montrose’s City Council’s support for affordable housing in the community has been well documented.  And the councilors have been vocal about the need during city council meetings and work sessions for several months.

And housing developments are potentially on the way. The Basecamp Subdivision, a multi-family development could bring 276 units. The HUB at Montrose Crossing also presents another opportunity for apartment units.

The wealth of new dwelling spaces could become attractive options for locals residents, and open up housing for others in the area.

Polis also mentioned the need to invest in rural communities. Though Montrose has already seen an influx of new business on Main additional funds may give a significant boost to the Montrose downtown area.

And then there’s the proposal to stop taxing seniors’ Social Security benefits. This could help those in Montrose relying on such a plan. People aged 65-74 lead the pack among all age groups in Montrose -- that’s 71% higher than the state average.

The move to expand broadband access has already made some headway in Montrose. Earlier this month, Montrose County School District, in partnership with Elevate and Clear Networx, received a state grant to address the need for high-speed internet within the community. This will aid students, educators and other staff who lack stable and reliable internet access needed for online learning.

Finally, any sort of relief on tax burdens for middle class families may be welcomed, too, as 27% of household income in Montrose is below $25,000.

And before we go,  we’d like to highlight Fran Noonan. Noonan was experiencing numbness in her hand and so, went to the emergency room. She wasn’t thinking that she would soon be headed to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction by ambulance after an MRI turned up something suspicious, or that two days later she would be undergoing surgery.

And she wasn’t thinking about brain cancer.

The lab results confirmed the worst.

Although the prognosis then was grim, Noonan today stands as a so-far successful clinical trial, after enrolling in one at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland for pioneering treatment entailing an immunotherapy drug and brain surgery.

And Noonan became a 'pioneering' case study.

Noonan and her family want others to know they can seek clinical trials, too, rather than just accept a terminal diagnosis.

Her daughters were determined to save their mother and aggressively researched options, she said.

They found support groups — and hospitals offering clinical trials.

To help Noonan keep up with expenses, her daughters and friends are holding an auction on Facebook Live at 5 p.m. on Saturday, February 27. On the block are several goods and services donated by local businesses.

For all the details visit the full story at montrosepress.com

The Noonan family urges people not to shy away from thorough research and not to settle for just one medical opinion. Noonan is determined to continue helping others. Part of that is sharing her story; part of it is deciding to one day become a research item herself.

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 FridayFebruary 19th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

Today - With larger and larger shipments of the coronavirus vaccine, Montrose County now administers thousands per week.

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 County has gone from being neglected in terms of the COVID-19 vaccine supply - to now receiving larger and larger shipments. 

We went from being able to administer a few hundred vaccines during the first weeks in January, to nearly 3,000 over the course of just three days last week.

Montrose County Media Relations Manager Katie Yergensen talked about the change in pace on  Tuesday during a League of Women update. Yergensen is also the county’s co-lead on vaccination logistics.

Here’s what she had to say:

Vaccine supplies come from the county via the state, which in turn receives allocations from the federal government. In addition to public health, about 10 community based providers also receive vaccine doses from the government, as do some senior care facilities.

Thanks to continued advocacy by commissioners and state legislators, Montrose County has been receiving larger shipments than back in January.

Last week, the county and partners kept long lines flowing steadily. The county is even consulting with a home health care company to help identify housebound individuals in need of the vaccine.

The increasing supplies are cutting down the county’s wait list, which at one point was about 6,500 strong.

But as more community-based providers like medical practices and pharmacies come online, vaccines could outpace demand within a month according to Dr. Joe Adragna - the Montrose County pandemic specialist. 

That would free up county employees who have been pulled away from other duties. 

Adragna also recently addressed some of the prevalent myths circulating about the vaccine.

He said some people are very concerned that getting it implants them with a nano-chip for tracking. Not only is that “just not true,” but believing it requires a lot of faith in a government that initially could not assemble enough protective gear at the start of the pandemic.

Adragna said that of the 52 million doses administered nationally, as many as 5% might not have had an immune response — but the vaccine is, at present, the best weapon.

Over the past two days the county estimated vaccinating around 2,000 people, including some in Phase 1B2, which includes people between the ages of 65 and 69 as well as school district employees.

For information about the vaccine priority phases and to see about pre registration, visit montrosecountyjic.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.

Born in 1896 in Montrose Keplar Barth Johnson was an American architect and a member of the American Institute of Architects. From 1937 to 1962, he was the Region 5 Architect for the U.S. Forest Service. In 1945, he designed an experimental and innovative lookout tower on La Cumbre Peak in the Los Padres National Forest. 

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

Sheryl Lynn Starbuck. Sheryl was born in Montrose, and grew up in Olathe, graduating from Olathe high school in 1968. After high school, Sheryl made her way to Gunnison where she attended Western State College and met her future husband, Harvey Starbuck. They married in 1972 and, in 1973, welcomed their first child. For the next seven years She worked for the post office in Carbondale. Her work for the post office continued when they moved to Montrose and welcomed their second child.

While in Montrose, Sheryl and Harvey adopted two children from Seoul, Korea. And in 1995, Sheryl’s next adventure began as she and Harvey opened the Mountain Valley Coffeeshop on Main Street. She eventually made the decision to sell the business and, at the age of 45, went back to college. Sheryl became a counselor, and she spent the remainder of her career working with children at Hilltop in Montrose, and also in schools on military bases, domestic and abroad. Sheryl worked in Germany and England but most enjoyed her time in Japan.

She loved spending time in the sunshine, tending to her flower garden and her beehives, listening to Willie Nelson, morning walks with friends, and most of all, being with her family. 

She will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Sheryl’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 I’m subbing in today! Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday February 17th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 Today -- Although the region remains in drought conditions, the recent storm brought Montrose to .85 inches of precipitation since the start of the year.

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

But before we begin, -- The Montrose United Methodist Church will host lenten services online at 7 p.m. tonight. To participate visit montroseUMC.org

Now, our feature story. A powerful storm draped Montrose in white on Sunday. Nearly 10 inches of snow fell within the city limits. A light snow fell again in parts of town on Tuesday morning.

A strong cold front had moved through the state, dropping temperatures to well below freezing and, in some parts of Colorado, below zero.

Although the region remains locked in drought conditions, the recent storm brought Montrose to .85 inches of precipitation since the start of the year. That’s just shy of the average.

A chilly Valentine’s Day played out across the country, freezing roads and flipping vehicles in places like Oklahoma and Texas. And power outages afflicted citizens nationwide as temperatures plunged.

In Montrose, some households lost power. The Delta-Montrose Electric Association described them as “small but long.” Many of these were actually from car crashes involving DMEA power poles and equipment.

Power crews worked restoring power from 3 a.m. Sunday through the mid-afternoon.

In all, 101 DMEA members experienced power interruptions.

Jasen Bronec, DMEA’s CEO said that weather systems like that always create increased demand on the electric grid, but he’s proud that they delivered on our commitment.

Because of the cold snap and possibility of more snow, DMEA is suspending all service disconnections through February 21st.

Members struggling to pay their electric bills are encouraged to contact DMEA as soon as they can. 

DMEA also offered some suggestions for minimizing the occurrence and impact of outages:

First -- drive with caution in bad weather.

Stock up on flashlights, batteries, books and board games.

Consider a portable power bank to charge cell phones.

Conserve heat by keeping doors and windows closed.

The winter weather is also yet another reminder of the perils of backcountry recreation.

As we’ve mentioned in other episodes, in Colorado alone, 10 people have died in avalanches this season. 

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center said the past week was the deadliest for recreational avalanche accidents in the country.

Persistent slab avalanches are common, but the conditions this winter are not.

Experts reiterate the need to check the avalanche forecast and conditions every day at avalanche.state.co.us, and to be prepared with the proper equipment. Don’t head into the backcountry alone.

To learn more visit us at montrosepress.com

Next, we’d like to highlight some local athletes! 

Known for their offensive prowess through the first six games, the Indians’ defense potential was on display during their 50-23 win over Grand Junction Central on Saturday. The win was Montrose’s seventh as the team hit the halfway mark on the season.

Finally, we’d like to take a moment today to remember the life  of Robert Lloyd Dix of Montrose. He went home to be with the Lord after a tragic and hard-fought battle with COVID. Bob grew up in Colorado, and married his high school sweetheart, Sue, in 1966. They lived in Gunnison while Bob got his teaching degree. In 1968, they moved to Montrose and Bob started teaching science and coaching at Columbine Junior High. Soon thereafter, they had two children,

Shelly and Greg. 

When the kids were young, almost every weekend you would find the Dixes camping, fishing and enjoying the outdoors. In 1976, Bob and Sue bought Raleigh’s Paint and Wallpaper Store where they worked together side-by-side for 41 years until they retired three years ago.

Bob was a family man who above all else worked hard and sacrificed to give his family the best of himself. He was devoted to investing in his family — being present and involved with them throughout his entire life. 

If you couldn’t find Bob working in his yard, you’d probably find him fishing with his brother Ray, four-wheeling on the Plateau, taking long walks with Sue. And he’d find any excuse to see his grandkids.

Bob also loved the “Colorado lifestyle.” He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping and four-wheeling with Sue and all of their lifelong friends. With Sue’s passing just eight short weeks ago, it was hard to imagine life for Bob without his best friend. They did everything together and truly were soulmates. 

They showed all of us what love, sacrifice, commitment and selflessness looked like as husband and wife, mom and dad, friend and neighbor. Bob’s family takes great comfort knowing that the two of them were reunited and able to celebrate Valentine’s Day together.

He will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Bob’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 MondayFebruary 15th 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 local charity takes steps to set up near downtown, their goal is to serve the homeless, hungry and low-income individuals in our community.

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

Before we begin, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new neighbor discussion platform. Neighbor is a free online forum you can trust to connect with your community, focus on facts & make a difference.​ Here’s managing editor Justin Tubbs on how this platform will work within our community.

Visit NABUR.montrosepress.com to learn more.

Now, our feature story.

As a local charity takes steps to set up near downtown, the City of Montrose is looking to resume a homelessness task force.

The Shepherd’s Hand Center is in the process of setting up a food distribution and services site. After months of back and forth with the city, the charity’s founder Garey Martinez was able to meet with City Manager Bill Bell and others to hash out some issues around what zoning applies to the building.

Martinez said once Bell was told Shepherd’s Hand is not planning an overnight shelter there, everything lightened up. Bell agreed to convene the task force to help address the types of issues Shepherd’s Hand deals with while serving homeless, hungry and low-income individuals.

Martinez said the planned center was not intending to replicate emergency overnight, seasonal shelter - which is currently provided by Montrose Lighthouse Ministries.

He also noted that he’s very excited to be able to say that he’s cooperating and working with the City of Montrose. And because of the ongoing pandemic, Montrose’s needs are growing even more.

The idea is to use the South Second Street location to continue the food box distribution Martinez currently does out of Cedar Creek Church. They’ll offer wraparound services by providing office space for similar nonprofits; a community room for those who want to use it, and a location to serve hot meals through the food trailer.

Martinez and others have been busily renovating the South Second Street building. They anticipate being able to open in mid-March, but they’ll likely move the food trailer before then. 

The goal is for it to be a community center, not just for the homeless and low-income, but open for everybody.

Martinez and many others have worked for years to address homelessness and related issues. He is part of the Lighthouse Ministry as well, and also is on the board of the Food Bank of the Rockies.

The Lighthouse is able to provide that overnight housing by subleasing from Tuxedo Corn the Brown Center. The city-owned building is leased to the growers who make up Tuxedo Corn for summer use as farmworker housing. In the winter, under the sublease, the Lighthouse uses it as an overnight shelter.

Martinez also collaborates with more than 20 other organizations that grapple with the needs poverty creates in Montrose.

To stay up to date on this story, visit us at montrosepress.com.

And before we go,  we’d like to take a moment to remember the life of Rick Dwain Hurt, of Montrose. Rick was born in 1953 in Texas. He graduated from High School in 1971, and then attended the University of Texas in Austin, earning a degree in anthropology. While there, Rick discovered the Austin music scene which inspired his life-long love of Americana music. He got a master’s degree in archaeology from Texas Tech University and worked as an archaeologist throughout the United States. 

He then decided to change careers and become a teacher. After getting his education degree from Metro State College in Denver, Rick started teaching history and geography at Olathe High School.

Rick retired from teaching in 2009, after 20 years in the classroom. Over the next few years, Rick worked promoting concerts in Montrose. And in recent years, Rick volunteered with KVNF Public Radio to help open a Montrose-based satellite broadcast studio, Studio M.

Rick loved to travel and spent time in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize. He was a huge Denver Broncos fan, loved playing guitar with friends, telling stories, and going on diving adventures.

Rick was also a fisherman, traveling to Alaska each summer with his uncle and cousins to fish for salmon and halibut.

He will be greatly missed. 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.

Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayFebruary 12th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

Today - Students have today off from school as Montrose County School District employees receive their COVID-19 vaccinations. 

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.

Before we begin, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is hosting an online “Sportspersons’ Roundtable” for hunting, fishing and wildlife issues in Southwest Colorado. The meeting is on February 18th, and will take place via Zoom at 6 p.m.

CPW staff will present updates on the 2021 hunting season, terrestrial species, aquatic species and other issues that they’re facing.

To find the zoom link visit us at montrosepress.com, or check this podcast episode description.

https://www.montrosepress.com/free_access/cpw-hosting-online-hunting-fishing-meeting/article_64d87e42-6cb2-11eb-95cf-633e2e23a7b0.html

To connect with the call, go to: https://zoom.us/join. Then enter the meeting ID 81468446639 and the passcode, 700654. Those who don’t have internet access, can phone in at: 720-928-9299 and then enter the meeting ID 81468446639 and the passcode, 700654. Contact Joe Lewandowski at 970-759-9590 or via email at [email protected] with questions.

Now, our feature story.

Students have today off from school as Montrose County School District employees receive their COVID-19 vaccinations. The district sent a letter to families notifying them of the school closure after the state announced that 35% of vaccine supplies will be earmarked for school staff.

According to the letter vaccine doses will be administered over the next three Fridays.

The letter also says that getting educators vaccinated means that they will be better protected from the virus, and it will reduce the number of quarantines necessary. This will reduce interruptions to in-person learning, and help ensure that parents can report to their own workplaces without child care or remote learning demands.

Ahead of today's vaccinations, Superintendent Carrie Stephenson discussed the plan during Tuesday’s board of education meeting. 

The district is working in partnership with public health to administer the first round of vaccines. Matt Jenkins, MCDS’s public information officer said that they had initially narrowed down the first registration to people who see kids on a routine basis. But upon learning of the availability of more doses, the district opened up the registration to office personnel.

There are roughly 1,000 people employed in the district, which includes coaches and club sponsors. Looking strictly at the building staff, there are around 750 people.

Board member Eric Kelley asked the question - what’s the plan for teachers who decide not to receive the vaccine? 

Superintendent Stephenson says staff who elect not to get the vaccine for personal or medical reasons will still be required to be quarantined if exposed to the virus.

Although staff will be vaccinated over the coming weeks and fully vaccinated in the coming months, the district’s COVID-19 mitigation strategies will remain in place for now to keep everyone safe. 

Gov. Polis said that two weeks after educators’ second dose, they no longer have to quarantine if they have COVID exposure

Vaccinations for educators is one step closer to a return to normalcy as the district remains committed to welcoming students back to 100% in-person instruction.

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.

Anna Lee Mills was born in Montrose, on April 19, 1921. She was an American jockey and trick rider in rodeos. She was also the first woman in the United States to receive a jockey's license. Anna pursued her professional horse racing career from, winning many races at state and county fairs. She then pursued a second career as a trick rider. She was inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 1983 and the Colorado Women's Hall of Fame in 2004.

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

James Austin. Jim left this earth with the same bravado that he lived by. As anyone who knew him would agree. Jim was larger than life. Whether you crossed paths with him at KU, where he was student body president, in Montrose where he was city manager, or Glenwood Springs, Grand Junction, Atlanta, Mexico, Copenhagen or Spain --- you surely remember a man of intelligence, humor and creativity who had a big voice and a bigger heart. Jim did not walk into a room unnoticed ... and if he did, he’d make sure to get your attention.

His greatest love was Patty, his soulmate and wife of over 60 years. Jim and Patty were together their entire lives — their “first date” captured in a photo of the two of them sharing a tire swing at age 3. Jim also went through life with an amazing cadre of close friends — too many to mention by name. In addition to Patty, he leaves behind a family who adored him. 

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

A Montrose physician was charged with drug offenses for allegedly dispensing Adderall outside the course of his professional practice.

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

But before we begin, -- We’re excited to announce that this year you can attend the 15th anniversary Mountainfilm on Tour-Montrose event -  from your couch!

This virtual online event will be open for viewing starting 9 a.m. on February 19th through February 21st. The show will involve nearly two hours of short films. Ons is focused on a father and daughter duo living and surfing on the coast of Iceland. Another is about an exceptional home in Denver whose volunteers welcome immigrants released from ICE detention.

To attend, go to mountainfilm.org/tour, click on the tour schedule, and then the event, and follow the instructions. A free virtual ticket is required and can be reserved ahead of time. You’ll be able to watch the films during a 48 hour window.

To learn more about the event, and learn more about the non-profits who have organized it, visit us at montrosepress.com.

Now, our feature story. 

A Montrose physician was charged with drug offenses for allegedly dispensing Adderall outside the course of his professional practice.

Dr. David Dreitlein was issued a summons earlier this month. It charges three unlawful acts related to controlled substances. Each count in the complaint alleges that he dispensed Adderall unlawfully in November of 2018.

Dreitlein had previously worked in the emergency department of Montrose Memorial Hospital. He was not directly employed by the hospital, and no longer has privileges at MMH. 

Defense attorney Kelly Page said that he is devastated by the charges.

She said that the government is substituting their own legal judgment for the medical judgment of an experienced, well-respected physician. 

She also noted that anyone who has seen and confided in a doctor should be unsettled by these allegations.

District Attorney Seth Ryan said that doctors have the ability to prescribe and dispense medication under their licenses as long as they are doing it in accordance with the license. When they don’t, just like anyone else, it’s subject to criminal charges.

Ryan could not speak much about the specific case, since it’s still ongoing.

If convicted, Dreitlein faces six months to a year in prison for the class-4 drug felony charges. And depending on the circumstances, the sentence could double to a minimum of one year, or maximum of two.

Dreitlein is scheduled to appear in court March 25th.

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

Next, we’d like to highlight some local athletes!

A number of the swimmers had their best times recently, including sophomore Caitlyn Dillon, who placed third in the women 200 free at the Delta swim meet last week. Joining Dillon was Alex Waxler, the team’s only senior, who, for the first time, completed the 500 in under seven minutes.

Like other sports, their season was reduced. This makes the meets important opportunities for the girls to record successful times before states.

Congratulations Caitlyn and Alex!

Finally, we’d like to take a moment today to remember the life  of Richard Friend who was born in New Jersey. He attended Camden Catholic Schools until he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1963. He was awarded two Good Conduct Medals and The National Defense Medal while he served. He then received an honorable discharge in 1967.

Richard returned to New Jersey where he entered the workplace as a carpet layer apprentice, becoming a professional carpet layer until 1979. Then, he moved from New Jersey to Colorado Springs to work as a horse rancher. Finally in 1981 he moved with friends to Montrose.

Soon after, he met the love of his life, Pamela, whom he married in 1982. He went to work with the family on their Buffalo Ranch and Farm. Richard had an immense love of the buffalo and the produce growing business.

He is survived by his wife, his son, his grandsons, granddaughter, great-granddaughter, three sisters, and nieces and nephews.

He was a generous, compassionate and loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be eternally missed.

Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Richard’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 MondayFebruary 8th 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 -  The Rotary Amphitheater project was approved during the latest City Council meeting.

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

Before we begin, we’d like to highlight Jaycie Casebolt, from the MHS girls basketball team.

Offensive rebounding is often a silent skill that can be overlooked. But when a player finds continued success with it, it’s noticeable.

Jaycie Casebolt, after grabbing four rebounds and scoring nine points in the season opener against Delta, has found similar success. In Thursday’s loss to Coal Ridge she scored 12 points — a team-high. Casebolt is one of four seniors on the 2021 team.

Coach Steve Skiff says that Jaycie has an outstanding knowledge about finding the ball. 

Casebolt helped the Indians take a 20-17 lead into the half on Thursday. She added two steals and an assist in the Delta loss, and was a near perfect 4 for 5 from the field.

The Rotary Amphitheater project was approved during the last City Council meeting.

The city awarded $3.2 million of budgeted funds for construction of an amphitheater at Cerise Park.

This project included the award of a contract with Stryker and Company, who will serve as the Construction Manager and the General Contractor. It will feature a stage, a recessed viewing area, a sound booth, restrooms, additional parking, a back access road to the stage area and designated spaces for vendors and merchandise.

According to the community impact report, uses for the amphitheater could include music, theater, festivals, non-profit events and other events like movies or workout classes.

The stage would be about the same size as the stage in the Montrose Pavilion. With a stage that big, there is potential to host bigger acts and shows, regional orchestras and symphonies. 

Public Works Manager Jim Scheid said that the priority and challenge of the construction project was to create as little environmental impact as possible.

Public comments advocated for further review of the environmental measures set in place for the project. There were concerns about negative environmental impacts on the ecological system in Cerise Park.

Plans for breaking ground for the amphitheater are set to start by March 1st, and the amphitheater is scheduled for total completion by November 1st.

And before we go,  The Montrose County School District announced last week that after a routine inspection, possible asbestos debris was found in the middle school ceiling at Olathe Middle and High School. 

The district shared the discovery of asbestos during the BEST grant application process.

The BEST grant would allow the district to use funds to further improve its security systems district-wide, something the community expressed as a goal several years ago.

MCSD Superintendent Carrie Stephenson said that anytime we have the opportunity to access additional funds to improve our safety and security measures, we will continue to do so.

MCSD and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment are collaborating to identify mitigation strategies based on state regulations as they determine next steps.

Stephenson said the timeline is not known currently as they continue the investigation, which includes having the qualified people come inspect the campuses. That process has already begun.

She added that the district’s COVID-19 conditions are getting to a place where they can consider welcoming all students back in-person. It’s another reason why the district is taking immediate action to address the asbestos situation to avoid delaying that return.

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.

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Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayFebruary 5th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

Today - Search teams have located the bodies of three people who were buried under about 20 feet of snow and debris from a Monday avalanche. 

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.

Before we begin, we’d like to highlight The Montrose Center for the Arts who will be hosting Wine & Roses, a live piano concert tonight from 5-7.

The live concert will be limited to 30 guests in the studio’s gallery. Tickets are $20 each or $30 per couple. Following the concert, guests can go to the Stone House to receive a special pre-made take out meal for $30. Tickets are available on their website at www.mc4arts.com. Masking and social distancing rules will be observed.

Now, our feature story.

Search teams have located the bodies of three people who were buried under about 20 feet of snow and debris from a Monday avalanche. The avalanche swept down as they skied the backcountry between Silverton and Ouray.

The victims had not been publicly identified as of Wednesday night.

The three were in a group skiing near Mineral Creek and Ophir Pass on Monday, near a feature known as The Nose. While they were there, an avalanche was triggered from an elevation of about 11,500 feet. It carried them away, along with a fourth member of the group.

The other skiers were able to locate the fourth person. That person reportedly sustained minor injuries.

Search and rescue teams from multiple jurisdictions responded to search for the missing skiers, but found severe conditions — and ongoing avalanche danger.

These conditions were so perilous that snowmobiles and other equipment used for the rescue became entrapped in heavy snow on Tuesday.

Search operations were suspended Tuesday afternoon out of safety concerns. They continued on Wednesday, and Ophir Pass was closed to facilitate efforts as ground teams worked sunup to sundown.

Teams from the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, emergency management, San Juan County Search and Rescue, La Plata County Search and Rescue, Silverton Mountain Medical and the Colorado Avalanche Information Center scoured the debris fields, ultimately locating the three skiers buried more than 20 feet deep. All three skiers were equipped with locator beacons, which helped searchers to find their bodies.

The rugged terrain and conditions meant that a helicopter team was required to actually remove the bodies.

Back in December avalanches claimed 3 lives in the region in just one weekend. 

If you’re going out don’t forget to Check the forecast at colorado.gov/av and have proper equipment, including a locator beacon, probe pole and shovel. Always share planned routes and intended timeframes with at least one other person.

Stay safe Montrose.

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. Right now they're offering their best prices of the year, 20% off of all installed jobs through the month of January. Give them a call at 970-249-4430, or head over to their website englandfence.com.

J.C. Frees started the first store in Montrose. When the city moved north to be closer to the railroad tracks, Frees moved his store too. It was built in 1905 it later housed the Montrose Grocery and Bakery.

Ralph Daniel Carver Jr. Ralph Jr. was born in Denver. He was the oldest of three children. Ralph grew up on a 5-acre mini-farm with his family. His mom raised turkeys which were quite popular at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Ralph and his siblings also raised white rabbits, cows, and chickens. After graduating from school he married Lucinda Carhart. Together they had four children.

In 1960 Ralph opened his first C&C Auto Parts, and in 1963 he moved the family to Montrose and opened a second C&C Auto Parts. He owned and operated both stores, traveling to between them weekly. The drive was time consuming and this was when Ralph developed his interest in flying. He became a pilot in 1970. He loved flying and often would take one of his children with him on the weekly trips.

He opened C&C Auto Parts number 3 in Delta in 1977. All three boys grew up working in the stores and learned the value of a hard day’s work. 

Ralph was an advocate of higher education and was instrumental in bringing Colorado Western College to Montrose. He served as president of the board in 1972. He was also involved in the start of the Delta-Montrose Vo-Tech Center. He felt that getting a higher education or learning a trade should be available to every young adult. He always said that an education can never be taken away.

Ralph’s marriage to Lucinda ended, and in 1985, he married Irene Thompson. They celebrated 27 years together before she passed away. They enjoyed traveling whenever possible. 

Ralph gradually sold off his three auto parts stores and retired in 1995 to ”return to his roots” and farm his acreage on Spring Creek Road. He especially enjoyed having many grandchildren and great-grandchildren visit the farm. 

He was proud of being a farmer. He was a true Christian, a believer. He was considerate, careful, and thoughtful. Ralph was not a man of many words, but he was a man of his word and will be dearly missed.

Thank you for taking a moment today 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.

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday February 3rd and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 Today -- Governor Jared Polis announced the state is expanding the vaccination group to incorporate teachers and 65-69 year olds, starting on February 8th.

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

But before we begin, -- as of last night search and rescue efforts were continuing for three of four people who were caught in an avalanche on Monday.

According to preliminary information from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, a group skiing in the backcountry triggered a large avalanche from a northeast-facing slope at about 11,500 feet.

Four people were caught, carried away and buried. The group located and recovered one person, who sustained minor injuries, but the other three remained unaccounted for. For the latest on this story visit us at Montrosepress.com.

The state shared a modified timeline for when groups of Coloradans are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine during a press conference on Friday.

Governor Jared Polis said the prioritization list will likely change as changes occur with the state’s access vaccine and as changes occur with Centers for Disease Control guidance, data and science.

He also said it was an easy decision to say people ages 70-and-up to receive the vaccine first. And about 40% of people ages 70-and-up have been vaccinated already, but the state’s goal is to vaccinate 70% of that group by the end of February.

As healthcare professionals across the state continue to vaccinate people ages 70 and older, Polis announced the state is expanding the vaccination group to incorporate teachers and 65-69 year olds, starting on February 8th.

The vaccination of educators will include teachers, child care workers, paraprofessionals and staff who work in classrooms with children. That process is expected to take two or three weeks.

School districts will be the ones providing staff with details about vaccinations.

For those in the age 65-69 population, the signup process for the vaccine is similar to the process for people ages 70 and older. 

They can sign up through a local healthcare provider or local public health agency. While people 65-69 can sign up now, Polis said that will not change the prioritization for people 70 and older. He also noted that when Feb. 8 arrives, vaccination prioritization will be randomized, meaning people who register now are not guaranteed to be one of the first people to be vaccinated.

Finally, Polis noted that essential frontline workers like grocery store workers will be included in a coming expansion scheduled to start through the employers on March 5.

Thanks for listening -- now, we’d like to take a moment today to remember the life  of Robert Kerr who passed away at Montrose Memorial Hospital from complications of COVID-19. Bob spent his childhood in Michigan. Right after high school he joined the US Army and served from 1962 until 1965.

He lived in New Mexico, for 28 years and worked at the school doing maintenance and driving the bus, and also at the local Hospital. He then lived in Denver for 15 years before moving to Montrose in 2018 to enjoy the small town life. His favorite mode of transportation was his motorcycle, which he rode almost every day, rain or shine. 

He retired in 2005 and loved nothing better than a bike ride and a cappuccino. He was a member of Trinity Reformed Presbyterian Church of Montrose. He was a humble, gentle, caring man who loved the Lord and made friends with everyone he met. He regularly attended AA meetings and talked easily with struggling people. He will be missed greatly. Thank you for taking a moment today to remember and celebrate his life.

Finally, although the pandemic has required students to adjust to new protocols from wearing face coverings and social distancing, the Montrose High School choirs have used technology to continue sharing their vocal talents. Here they are singing 'Rise Up In Festive Song’

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.

 

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Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayFebruary 1st 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 -  Lauren Boebert’s Montrose town hall was canceled at the last minute due to multiple threats.

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

Before we begin, a quick announcement.

What has been hailed as a climate-saver and also decried as a job-killer, President Joe Biden’s recent executive order pauses new federal oil and gas leases. It’s drawing attention in the region.

Conservationists and small farmers in the North Fork Valley welcomed the orders as a respite that will protect clean water and agri-tourism in the valley.

Meanwhile, Lauren Boebert called blocking future leases an unlawful attack on jobs, at a time when Coloradans are struggling from COVID-19’s hit on the economy.

To read more about what’s going on visit us at montrosepress.com.

Now, our feature story.

What would have been Lauren Boebert’s first stop in Montrose since being sworn in was canceled on Saturday.

Boebert had apparently been scheduled for an event here. Word of the event began circulating online on Friday evening. But by Saturday, the event had been canceled. The host site, Circle 3 Cowboy Fellowship, reported receiving a phone threat before that cancelation.

Ben Stout, the Communications director for the US Congresswoman said that Boebert The was planning on stopping by a small private event. It was not an official town hall organized by her office. And it ultimately became clear that there was not enough security for the number of people that were planning to attend. 

Stout did note that the congresswoman looks forward to meeting with members of the community in the future.

Pastor Gary Lear told the Montrose Daily Press the church was notified of the cancelation on Saturday morning.

And that morning, Lear said the church received nearly 10 threats related to the event. One threat came from a Denver area code phone number. The individual that issued the threat apparently claimed to be part of Boebert’s team.

The Montrose County Republican Party had planned to attend the event according to Chairman Ray Langston. Langston said the party was disappointed about the cancelation.

The Montrose Mirror announced details of the event on its Facebook page Friday evening, but the post, and a subsequent post about the cancelation, have since been taken down.

To learn more about this story, visit us at montrosepress.com.

And before we go,  We’d like to highlight the Montrose high school girl’s basketball team. The group is certainly happy to be back after more than a month of waiting for an official timeline.

Coach Steve Skiff said that they know it’s going to be different in a lot of ways and it’s going to be fast and furious, but they have a great group of kids and they have great leadership from seniors. 

The team is getting used to wearing the mask while playing, and adjusting to the conditions after a rough start, but the mentality remains positive, for both players and coaches.

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.