Montrose Fresh

Good morning I’m subbing in today! Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday April 14th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- After 17 years at the helm of the Olathe High School football program, coach Ryan Corn is stepping down.

 

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

 

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Now, our feature story. 

 

After 17 years at the helm of the Olathe High School football program, coach Ryan Corn is stepping down. He’s opting to spend more time watching his kids play their respective sports. 

 

His daughter Sadie plays softball at Montrose High School. His daughter Lizzy is a cross country runner and basketball player in middle school. And Bryson, who’s in fifth grade, plays football, wrestles and will also play baseball this spring.

 

It’s already been a busy coaching year so far for Corn. He’ll still lead the track and field team at Olathe High this month and next. 

 

He also accepted the position of head coach for the girls wrestling team. That team is consistently ranked in the top 10 of girls wrestling programs across the state. 

 

And during the fall, he coached the Pirates in a football season in which they went 2 to 5.

 

During his 17-year run as head coach, Corn reached the playoffs seven times and led the Pirates to five league titles and two state championships. Olathe’s football program was one of the most dominant 2A programs in the state.

 

Between 2008 and 2010 the Pirates even had a stretch where they won 25 straight games.

 

Corn says that anytime you win a state championship, it’s huge. It doesn’t matter what sport it is. 

 

He said that during those years in particular, right away you could tell there was something special.

Corn’s coaching philosophy helped the team on-and-off the field. He teaches athletes that academics come first and athletics second. 

 

Outside of football, Corn was on the sidelines last month as he watched Nicole Koch and Kierstin Myers each capture girls state wrestling titles. He helped guide the girls in the program navigate their first season. 

 

Throughout the years, he’s coached hundreds of student-athletes at Olathe High School in what’s been a near two-decade run in a coaching capacity.

 

He understands the importance of extracurricular activities. And when he talks to his kids, he talks about character and doing things the right way, and teamwork. 

 

For now, Corn plans to return as head coach for the girls wrestling program at OHS. He’ll also continue leadinging the track and field group. 

 

And said he just might stick around the football program - but not in a head coaching capacity.

 

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

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Finally, we’d like to take a moment to remember the life of 

 

Lifelong Montrose resident Tony Appelhanz.

 

Tony grew up in the Olathe and Montrose area. He attended school in Olathe until his senior year of high school, when the family moved to the farm at Riverside. He graduated from Montrose High School in 1948, but was considered a part of both graduating classes. Tony then joined the Colorado National Guard in 1948. 

 

Later, along with his dad and brothers, Tony farmed and ranched. Throughout his lifetime he saw the advancement in agriculture. Tony was a member of the Holly Sugar Beet Board when the sugar beets were raised in the valley. The family also raised beer barley which was used to make Coors Beer. Eventually, cattle were added to the business. 

 

Music was a big part of Tony’s life. He played the accordion, trumpet, piano and drums. He was a member of The Key Notes, a jazz band that played across the Western Slope. 

 

In 1960, Tony married his wife of 60 years, Marion. They had four children together. As a family they worked the farm and ranch.

 

Tony enjoyed spending time with his 13 grandkids. From gardening, raising livestock, to music he was always willing to give advice. He also shared many stories of his life with them which always included a life lesson.

 

He will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking the time today to remember and celebrate Tony’s life.

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

 

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

 

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

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayApril 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 - Sunset Mesa Funeral Foundation defendants were ordered to pay millions of dollars to 30 people who sued them over the selling of their loved ones’ bodies. 

 

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.

 

Sunset Mesa Funeral Foundation defendants were ordered to pay millions of dollars to 30 people who sued them over the selling of their loved ones’ bodies. 

 

After hearing testimony in February, Montrose District Judge Cory Jackson awarded all but one plaintiff damages.

 

Jackson found that Sunset Mesa defendants Megan Hess, Shirley Koch, and Alan Koch were all liable. 

 

Lead plaintiff Christopher Artrup and the other 29 plaintiffs suffered in four ways according to Jackson’s order. First, the defendants stole money that was paid for proper funeral services. Second they stole personal property like jewelry from the bodies. Third, they actually stole and sold the bodies. And finally, these actions caused pain and suffering.

 

During February proceedings, plaintiffs told of nightmares. Enduring trauma and grief. They detailed the pain of not knowing what had become of loved ones.

 

Debra Schum testified to caring for her best friend of 30 years in her final days. She entrusted her arrangements to Sunset Mesa, only to later learn Johnson’s body was sold.

 

The judgment totaled about $16 million. Payments range between $468,000 and close to $1 million per plaintiff.

 

But attorney Keith Killian reminded his clients that being able to find these funds will be difficult. Especially since the FBI has seized assets from the defendants.

 

The Artrup case was one of six lawsuits filed against Sunset Mesa. Of the six, it’s the fourth to result in a judgment against Sunset Mesa Funeral Foundation defendants.

 

Separate from the civil action, Megan and her mother Shirley have been federally indicted over an alleged scheme to acquire and sell human remains. 

 

Sunset Mesa Funeral Foundation did business as Sunset Mesa Funeral Directors in Montrose until 2018. It was then when the FBI and state of Colorado served search warrants.

 

Hess and Shirley Koch were federally indicted last year on allegations of mail fraud. The fraud related to shipping diseased human remains. 

 

Ultimately the feds allege the women engaged in a scheme to get bodies to sell to the medical and research market.

 

The case is tentatively set for trial in August.

 

To read more about this meeting visit us at montrosepress.com

 

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And before we go we’d like to highlight recent updates on the Rotary Amphitheater.

 

The city has broken ground on the new Rotary Amphitheater construction site near the Cerise Park dog park.

 

So far, construction workers have completed the land contouring.

 

Mayor pro tem Dave Frank noted that they’re moving forward in a fast and great way.

 

With the land contouring complete, workers are now installing pipelines.

 

Frank said the city is hoping for the project to be completed around late fall. Just in time for seasonal concerts.

 

For now, the city has a tentative opening ceremony planned. The ceremony may even feature a concert.

 

Construction on the amphitheater broke ground back at the start of March. The project comes as part of an effort to bring more people to Montrose for events. 

 

The city anticipates the amphitheater will also boost the economy. Everything from providing jobs to construction workers, architects and vendors, to filling up hotels, restaurants and gas stations.

 

To learn more about the project visit us 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.

Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s FridayApril 9th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Montrose County has officially moved to level green on the state’s COVID-19 dial.

 

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…

 

On Wednesday, Montrose County announced it was officially in the green on the state’s COVID-19 dial.

 

The dial status of green indicates that there’s no more than 5% test positivity. It also means that there is sufficient local hospital bed capacity.

 

Dr. Joe Adragna, the pandemic specialist for the county, estimated that roughly 75% of the county’s population had either recovered naturally after contracting the virus or had attained full immunization. 

 

Commissioner Keith Caddy said he thinks we’re getting close to herd immunity in Montrose. 

 

He noted they’ve focused on the at-risk groups over the last three months with the vaccination program and it was successful.

 

Montrose County, with partners that include Montrose Memorial Hospital, River Valley Family Health Center, pharmacies and other providers, had administered nearly 22,000 doses of vaccine as of the start of this week. 

 

And statewide, about 1.8 million residents have received at least one dose of a vaccine. 1 million are fully vaccinated.

 

Caddy said he’s pleased with the vaccination numbers he has been seeing, and that the time has come for restrictions to ease.

 

Falling on the risk scale to green means masks are required only in certain settings — although individual businesses are not precluded from requiring their use.

Private businesses may still require face coverings, but things have certainly relaxed.

 

Face coverings are now only required in the following places..

 

Schools, childcare centres, and camps. 

 

Public areas of state government facilities and places where people may come in contact with government employees.

 

Congregate care facilities like nursing homes or group homes.

 

Prisons and jails

 

Healthcare settings

 

And finally, personal services.

 

But while cases are going down, it is still important to exercise personal responsibility. Make good choices, social distance when you can, wash your hands often, and of course, stay home if you’re sick.. 

 

Being in level green also means that most business, activity, or gathering may fully operate with no capacity restrictions.

 

But a handful of businesses still need to operate below their normal capacity at 50%. These businesses include bars, smoking lounges, indoor events, indoor sports, and  indoor camps.

 

For more information including information on vaccination opportunities, you can visit montrosecountyjic.com. 

 

You can also learn more by visiting us at Montrosepress.com.

 

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

 

The Hanging Flume was an open water chute built over the Dolores River Canyon in Colorado. The Montrose Placer Mining Company built the flume in the 1880s to facilitate gold mining. Some sections are still attached to the canyon wall, but much of the wood has vanished.

 

The Cliffside flumes were originally developed in California. They used trestles and brackets at regular intervals to support the flume box. The flume connected with a six mile long ditch, both designed to provide water for miners in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado.

 

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And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of  David Franklin Dougherty. David was born in 1946, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He passed away on March 30 at his brother’s home in Montrose.

 

David’s family moved to Denver in 1956. He lived there until retirement in 2002 when he moved to Montrose. 

 

Dave was an avid outdoorsman for most of his life hunting, fishing, snow and water skiing. He enjoyed NASCAR races and classic muscle cars. Anyone who knew Dave would tell you he was always there to lend a hand. 

 

He always had a dog, mostly border collies, and he really enjoyed going to the sheepdog trials especially in Meeker, Colorado. Dave was a lifelong auto and diesel mechanic he spent the bulk of his career working at Colorado Kenworth for over 30 years.

 

Dave is survived by his younger brother Bruce, his nephew, his niece, his great-nephew, and great-niece Karen Williams.

 

He will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate David’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 April 7th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- We’re highlighting Ricardo Perez and the Hispanic Affairs Project which has implemented ways for the local Latino community to thrive.

 

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

 

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Now, our feature story. 

 

Born in El Salvador, Ricardo Perez knows all too well what it means to help a fellow person. 

 

Starting his work as a community organizer in 1987, Perez visited rural communities suffering from the Salvadoran Civil War. Later he worked with refugees. 

 

In 1992 Perez moved to Guatemala and worked with Guatemalan refugees.

 

Working with nonprofits and the local government, Perez eventually helped in the return of refugees to specific areas in El Salvador at the end of the civil war. 

 

It was this extensive experience helped spark the rise of the Hispanic Affairs Project. Established in 2005 - it now serves western Colorado. 

 

In 2009 Perez was nominated to become the executive director for the organization. Around that same time the organization became a 501c3 nonprofit.

 

In 12 years since, the nonprofit has led a mission that works to support the social development of the Hispanic immigrant community through a focus on leadership formation, community organizing and advocacy.

 

Today, HAP provides legal assistance, sexual and domestic violence awareness. They also work to combat human trafficking and champion pro immigrant policies. 

 

Over the years, the nonprofit’s work has provided immigration legal assistance to nearly 1,000 families.

 

The organization celebrated a victory on the federal level against the Department of Labor to increase the salary, and add labor protections, for foreign workers in the US sheep industry. This was an incredible victory.

 

Perez said that one of their missions is to make sure that new people are having a sense of belonging. Especially since over the last four years it has been very hard for the immigrant community. 

 

Perez emphasizes that there’s still work to be done. He says there is still a lack of policies to support immigrant integration in Colorado. 

 

But that could change. In the 2021 legislative session, there are more than a dozen pro immigrant bills that have the potential to shift the way organizations like HAP could help the Hispanic community. 

 

To learn more about this story visit us at Montrosepress.com and check out our Montrose Gives section.

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Finally, we’d like to take a moment to remember the life of 

 

Chris Liller of Montrose who passed away unexpectedly.

 

Chris was born in Denver and graduated in the class of 1976 from Manuel High School. After high school, Chris went straight to work doing general and specialty contracting on various construction jobs throughout Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado. 

 

In August of 2005 Chris became a partner in an Independent Construction Business in Montrose. Later, Chris continued to do construction and became a sales representative at ERTEC Environmental Systems until the time of his death.

 

Chris enjoyed staying busy and being out in nature. He had an unconditional love for his Labradors including, Drake, Eddie, and Buck. He enjoyed fly fishing, rafting, jet skiing, barbecuing with friends, hiking, and taking his 4-wheeler up to the mountains to enjoy God’s Country. 

 

Chris also had an eye for beautiful scenery and views. He would always take along his camera to capture them, and to take pictures of the animals that he would encounter on his rides. He liked to tell stories about his adventures with friends, and would often invite them to go along with him on his next ride. 

 

Chris had a huge heart, and would try to help people in any way that he could. He was well known in the community for his friendly nature and outspoken personality. 

 

Chris will be missed and remembered by all who knew him. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate his life.

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayApril 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 - How does the Western Slope build back stronger? 

 

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.

 

During a recent Zoom meeting Western Slope leaders gathered to discuss how the area can come back, and come back stronger than ever from the pandemic. The meeting was a part of Colorado’s Build Back Stronger series.

 

Lauren Larson, director of the governor’s office of state planning and budgeting for Colorado, said the state will receive about $14 billion from the bipartisan coronavirus relief package. It’ll receive another $27 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act.

 

The federal relief is heading to several different areas. 

 

Stimulus checks, unemployment, child care, housing, restaurants, and also a child tax credit expansion.

 

And with these funds come some additional goals. Those include creating jobs, growing businesses, and meeting workforce challenges.

 

Larson noted that there is flexibility with stimulus proposals.

 

So how can we use these funds to build back stronger? 

 

Governor Jared Polis noted that the success of how well Colorado deploys these funds is going to determine how successful the recovery is.

 

Ricardo Perez, the executive director for the Hispanic Affairs Project in Montrose, was also at the meeting. 

Perez discussed how the lack of paid sick leave, and health insurance, impacted agriculture workers. And many of those workers are Hispanic immigrants.

 

He said that elected officials need to go deeper in understanding the social and economic dynamics focused on the workforce, wages, and labor conditions. This will provide a better picture of where to invest.

 

Perez emphasized that the federal stimulus package is a great opportunity to bring balance by supporting the workforce with better wages and labor conditions in rural industries. He noted that Colorado can do better when it comes to reducing the poverty that many full-time workers and their families are facing. To Perez, that’s what it means to make Colorado stronger.

 

The state will continue its series through the month of April, and has now heard from representatives on the Western Slope, as well as those in southern and northern Colorado.

 

To read more about this meeting visit us at montrosepress.com

 

And before we go we’re excited to highlight a local athlete.  

 

Nicole Ann Koch is a unique, happy, adolescent teenager who seems to have the world by the tail.

 

She has a 4.03 GPA and is often playful . . . but when it comes time to get serious, her demeanor changes. Her easy going, graceful manner disappears when she’s asked about her approach to high school varsity wrestling. 

 

She told us that she wants to win every time she steps out on the mat. And she believes she can. 

 

Her voice is full of confidence and assurance.

 

Nicole is a returning three-time state wrestling champion with one more year of eligibility . . . 

 

She could be a four-time state champion. Since 1936 there have been 29 four-time Colorado champions. They’ve all been in the boys divisions. Nicole is on track to be number 30.

 

She’s not over confident but understands her ability to perform well at a high level. That confidence is backed by winning seven national competitions. One of those competitions was  the prestigious Rocky Mountain Nationals where she was voted the outstanding wrestler.

 

In September, Nicole and the family will head to Colorado Springs where she will be given, yet another award.

 

The Colorado Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame will honor her with the 2021 Girls High School Wrestler of the Year award. 

 

A fitting distinction for the unique, young lady from Delta.

 

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 FridayApril 2nd, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - Delta County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Travis Lackey was named Red Cross Hero after saving suicidal man.

 

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…

 

When Delta County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Travis Lackey and Deputy Jake Hernandez arrived at the Eckert pasture last July, they encountered a man with a gun. 

 

He was bent on harming himself.

 

But Sargent Lackey acted quickly. Delta County Sheriff Mark Taylor said Lackey was able to save this man’s life.

 

His quick actions that day ultimately earned him a Western Colorado Red Cross Hero of the Year Award. Lackey received it on March 20th during a virtual ceremony presented by CoBank.

 

The incident began when Lackey and Hernandez responded to calls about an armed person who was threatening self-harm. 

 

When they arrived on scene, they saw a man in a field, with a woman latched onto him, pleading.

 

As the officers approached, they spotted the man’s handgun. And as the man turned and saw them, he brought the gun up.

 

Mark Taylor said that Sergeant Lackey in an instant just jumped on this individual and was able to disarm him. 

 

At no point did the man point the gun directly at officers. .

 

Then, Sergeant Lackey had the presence of mind to calm the man’s wife down. He was also able to get the individual to the hospital and in touch with The Center for Mental Health. 

Then, weeks later, a letter came in the mail. It was from the man, thanking Lackey and Hernandez.

 

He was able to attend his daughter’s wedding instead of his family grieving over his death. 

 

So, when the time came to make nominations for the Red Cross Heroes’ award, Sheriff Mark Taylor sent a letter seeking honors for Lackey. Lackey competed with more than 100 others for the honor. 

 

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.

 

Horse events have been a part of Ouray County’s history dating back to 1892 when funds were raised to complete a race track.

 

And this year will be the 89th year for the historic Ouray County Rodeo, an annual event at Ouray County Fairgrounds in Ridgway.

 

It’s now become one of the largest events on the Western Slope on Labor Day.

 

People from around the West came to compete in traditional rodeo events like bareback and bull riding. Others competed in events such as the cow pony relay race.

 

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

Dawn Marie Morrison who passed away on March 20th after a long valiant battle with Spina Bifida related health issues.

 

Dawn was born on December 30th, 1970 in South Bend, Indiana. In May of 1976, the family moved to Ridgway, Colorado. There, Dawn began her education at Ridgway Elementary School. She graduated from Ridgway High School in the spring of 1989. 

 

After graduating, Dawn began a course of study as a veterinarian tech assistant at Colorado Mountain College in Glenwood Springs. She moved to Nebraska in the summer of 1992, then later to Michigan where she lived before returning to Montrose in 2014.

 

She will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Dawn’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 March 31st and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- Barbara Bynum is Montrose’s first mayor during a pandemic since 1918. Now, she’s finishing her term.

 

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

 

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Now, our feature story. 

 

This past year was not at all what Barbara Bynum expected after she was chosen as mayor of Montrose last April.

 

Bynum said that it was during a council meeting on March 17 where they last met in person and passed an emergency ordinance. 

 

Bynum recalls having already heard of a few positive cases in Montrose.

 

Bynum has been attending a couple of COVID meetings every week since her term began. A lot of the focus has been on helping small businesses.

 

They established a city grant program for businesses. They also helped with outside dining areas and expanding liquor license permits to include outdoor seating.

 

Bynum noted that partnerships like that with the Colorado Yurt company were really valuable.

 

The Colorado Yurt company helped “tipi” Montrose, and provided additional space.

 

Now, Bynum said she hopes that a majority of Montrose will choose to get vaccinated.

 

She said that she feels like Montrose is positioned well to fight the coronavirus -- big enough to have the resources but small enough that we all know each other.

 

Bynum’s efforts to serve Montrose have been resilient and entered the pandemic in a strong, financial position. But she said the toll on individuals is hard to measure.

 

Community members who have lost housing and jobs — parents who try to work from home on top of being their children’s teachers — they all stay on Bynum’s mind.

 

Now that her term is coming to an end, serving the community remains Bynum’s top priority and passion.

 

Bynum began her service to Montrose as a room mom, then PTA president. Then she was appointed to the school board, and then worked on the Community Recreational Center campaign and was elected to the Montrose Recreational District Board.

 

From there, she was elected to city council.

 

Bynum plans to take a “breather” once her term as mayor comes to an end. 

 

The mayor currently serves on the executive board of the Colorado Municipal League. She plans to run for another two years once her term is up in June.

 

Bynum also will continue to sit on the Colorado Flights Alliance board, an organization that works with different airlines to bring flights into the Montrose airport.

 

Her two-year council seat won’t be up for reelection until April of next year. While she anticipates running again, she wants to focus on her family and responsibilities before making any decisions.

 

Whether she is a room mom or mayor, Bynum intends to continue serving her community.

 

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Before we go, we’d like to take a moment to remember the life of 

 

Eddie Hamilton. Eddie was born in Delta.

 

He grew up in Montrose and was a lifelong native. Eddie graduated from Montrose High School and has been a lifelong supporter. Eddie was the owner of several businesses for many years in Montrose, but probably most known for Ed’s Car Wash. 

 

Eddie enjoyed watching Montrose football every year. He was always interested in the Montrose community and what was going on.

 

Eddie is survived by his son Scott Hamilton and grandchildren Zoey and Andrew. He will be missed dearly.

 

Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Eddie’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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Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayMarch 29th 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 - Longtime businessman Ed DeJulio will be closing The Furniture Connection after about 20 years. Why? It’s time.

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.

Longtime businessman Ed DeJulio will be closing The Furniture Connection after about 20 years, for, he said, a simple reason... It’s time.

DeJulio is  86 years old.

He has been in the furniture business since 1963, when he started Flairmont Furniture. From there, he branched off to Budgetline Furniture which he later sold. 

Then, DeJulio opened The Furniture Connection in 2001 on the prime South Townsend Avenue location.

Now, the building is being sold to someone else and the store is winding down with a May final closure date. They’re also liquidating existing inventory.

Although some businesses took a beating from the restrictions imposed to address the COVID-19 pandemic, DeJulio said The Furniture Connection thrived. He also noted that as a whole, the industry has done well throughout the pandemic.

DeJulio thanks his many loyal customers-turned-friends who, with dedicated employees, made The Furniture Connection a success. 

Montrose will definitely miss the Furniture Connection.

And before we go we’re excited to highlight our athlete of the week 

Montrose volleyball finished the first week’s slate of games with a 3-0 start, defeating opponents in all but one set.

It’s also been a strong start for junior Madisen Matoush.

Over the three games, Matoush had 35 kills, nearly doubling her total from all of last year. 

Montrose Coach Shane Forrest said that she has been so consistent during all three matches with hitting, serving, passing and digging. 

Forrest also noted that She’s just a solid all the way around volleyball player — she can do anything. 

Matoush has quickly come into her own, and will look to continue her hot streak against Grand Junction and Eagle Valley next week.

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 FridayMarch 26th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - In Montrose, the co-response model that involves local law enforcement and mental health professionals is already having an impact.

 

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…

 

In Montrose, the co-response model involving local law enforcement and mental health professionals is having an impact.

 

Carol Howe led a webinar with law enforcement and mental health professionals. To kick off the event, Tim Cox, Patrol Commander with the Montrose Police Department gave a quick overview of what this co-response program is…

 

As Cox said, as officers arrive on scene and make sure it’s safe, a licensed professional counselor is brought in. It’s all evaluated on a case-by-base basis,

 

The goal is to provide the least amount of intervention to meet an individual’s needs. For example: sometimes a person will simply be transported to Montrose Memorial Hospital if there’s a medical requirement. People are also offered an opportunity to stay at the crisis walk-in center or stabilization unit at the Center for Mental Health. 

 

Katharyn Burke, a licensed professional counselor and co-responder for Montrose plays a large role in the program. Burke’s training is extensive. She has a master’s in counseling and is a licensed professional counselor in Colorado. She also has several years of experience in crisis work.

 

During the Webinar Burke explained her role.

 

That collaboration has helped local law enforcement go where they are truly needed. And Cox says that there’s been a significant reduction in crimes committed from people dealing with behavioral or mental issues.

 

The amount of calls for service has been impacted by the pandemic. At first, there was a reduction of calls, then it picked up during the summer. Lately, there’s been a rise. 

 

There’s also been less cross training due to the pandemic, but more funding in the future could help.

 

For now, there’s only enough funding for one position in Montrose. But additional funding could help the program have structured teams. That would be similar to what’s happening on the Front Range.

 

To learn more about the program and how it’s going, 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.

 

The Egyptian Theatre in Delta opened in 1928. After years of decline and neglect the theater was finally restored in the 1990s. It reopened in 1997 as a community theater.  It’s one of only six Second Egyptian Revival theatres left in the U.S. 

 

And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of  Tammy Hale of Montrose.

 

Tammy was born in Delta. She graduated from Montrose High School in 1984, developing a love for the arts. She went on to study fashion design and pattern-making at the Art Institute in San Francisco.

 

Tammy loved traveling and enjoyed nature. She continually grew her skills and explored many different mediums of art. She worked as a graphic artist at Habitat Incorporated. Later she owned a studio where she made custom draperies. Her work was even featured in Architectural Digest. 

 

Throughout her life, Tammy was an avid reader and researcher.

 

She met the love of her life, Steve, and they were married in 2006. Together,  they lived on the family ranch. Tammy enjoyed wildlife, and loved tending her flower and vegetable gardens.

 

Later on, Tammy and Steve joined the Montrose Farmers Market, which further allowed her to showcase her talents.

 

She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Tammy’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 March 24th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- A shock to the community as West End fire chief dies on call.

 

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. 

 

Chester Riley was known for his perpetual smile — and for his dedication to the Nucla and Naturita communities. But Saturday evening, the two towns were left reeling when Riley, the long-time fire chief, died. He was responding to a vehicle crash.

 

Riley responded to help those in the vehicle, which had rolled down a hill. He went down the hill twice in the course of the response. But on the second time, Riley turned around to talk to arriving paramedics and collapsed and fell down the hill.

 

Deputies and others on scene attempted life-saving measures but they were unsuccessful. 

 

Nucla Mayor Pro Tem Paula Brown says that everyone is pretty upset about his passing. It’s hit the community pretty hard. 

 

Riley was a great volunteer in our community, always happy and a joker. He always had a smile on his face.

 

He was very community-oriented. He got along with everybody. He was just an all-around good guy.

 

Fire Protection District board member Dick Starks said that being fire chief of a district that spans three relatively remote communities in western Montrose County takes a rare breed. Riley was just that type and will not be easily replaced.

 

Starks noted that it’s hard to find a chief for a volunteer fire department. It takes somebody who wants to live here, because they have to be here 24/7 unless they make arrangements with officers and assistant chiefs. It was an incredibly demanding job.

Riley was not only responsible for the fire district, but also its emergency medical services and wildland fire divisions. 

 

And Riley’s dedication didn’t stop at the job.

 

He was the type of person that, no matter who it was or what time of day, if someone called he would be there. 

 

-Finally, an update on the Montrose City Council.

 

Montrose City Councilor Roy Anderson will step down, effective April 7th.

 

Why? A serious medical situation concerning his wife.

 

After speaking with doctors, and discussion over the winter months, it became clear that they would need to move to a lower altitude.

 

Anderson said that when it comes to it, life and family are first.

 

In 2014 Anderson, along with his wife, Sandi, traded the Front Range of Colorado for the natural beauty around Montrose.

 

Anderson began volunteering at the city’s downtown Visitor Center, where he developed a passion to serve and promote everything in Montrose.

 

In April 2016, Anderson was first elected to the council and served a four-year term representing the council’s District 3 seat.

 

He was elected by the council to serve as mayor for the 2018-2019 mayoral term.

 

Then, In 2020, Anderson was elected to another four-year term in District 3 following the city’s municipal election.

 

Anderson said he is proud of the impact he has left on Montrose.

 

He’ll be missed.

 

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.