Montrose Fresh

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayMarch 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 - The US Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen has announced the appointment of Frank Beum as the new regional forester for the Rocky Mountain Region.

 

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.

 

Frank Beum has been announced as the new regional forester for the Rocky Mountain Region. He starts on April 12th.

 

Beum will lead more than 2,000 employees across 22 million acres of national forests and grasslands. He’ll partner with forty-eight affiliated tribes in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.

 

The goal of the role is to reduce the risks of damage to forests and grasslands and the surrounding communities. Another goal is to enhance the user experience.

 

Beum is currently the deputy regional forester for natural resources for the Southern Region of the USDA Forest Service in Atlanta. He currently oversees 13 southern states and Puerto Rico.

 

Beum has worked in forestry for 40 years. He began his Forest Service career in the Rocky Mountain Region as a seasonal forestry technician back in 1981. 

 

He holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from Ohio State University and a master’s degree in recreation resource management from Colorado State University. 

 

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And before we go we’re excited to highlight 

 

Kala Keltz Rusk, who is making history as the first woman PGA Class A pro to lead a golf course in Montrose.

 

Rusk started the role last week at The Links of Cobble Creek.

 

She is a familiar face at all three local golf courses. She’s a Montrose native. 

 

After graduating from MHS in 2013, Rusk played collegiate golf at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. 

 

After graduating she made the decision to return to Montrose, start a family, and become a club professional. Last year, she successfully completed her Class A PGA qualification.

 

Now, she and her husband are the parents of two children, and she’s ready for the challenges ahead.

 

Rusk said that she’d like to have more activities for the public. Like Frisbee golf, foot golf or even a glo-ball tournament under a summer’s night sky. Rusk is also adding two new clothing lines to pro shop.

 

 

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

 

Today - Ute Indian Museum won nearly $200,000 from Great Outdoors Colorado.

 

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…

 

Ute Indian Museum Director CJ Brafford spent weeks on “pins and needles”, but it was worth it. The local History Colorado property won nearly $200,000 from Great Outdoors Colorado.

 

What are they going to do with the grant? They’re planning to develop a “naturescape” park on museum grounds. The park will enhance people’s connection to the landscape and offer several hands-on experiences that serve to educate the public about Ute culture.

 

Brafford said that when he first got the news there was excitement but also relief. This has been a dream and a vision -  and now the work begins.

 

Last year, The Ute Indian Museum launched the first phase of its outdoor education site. 

 

The museum created an outdoor classroom featuring a natural sandstone seating area arranged in a half-moon shape.

 

And this recent funding will be used to create the nature-themed exhibit and play park collectively. This Naturescape Park will have play and educational components for multiple generations.

 

For example, there will be a “spider web” that kids can climb on as they learn about the industrious spider - also, a bear “den” and a coyote “den” amid the rock features. 

 

The museum staff will be working closely with local tribes in completing the Naturescape Park.

 

The complete project will serve both the community and the museum. A natural playground will provide public access to space for kids and families to connect to the Native American belief of working with and respecting Mother Nature. 

 

Brafford says that it’s going to enhance cultural heritage. They want to have educational panels throughout the park that will share Ute stories using the landscape.

 

Ideally, Brafford would like the new features to be open in June.

 

The grant to the Ute Museum, as well as to the land trust, brings G.O.C.O’s investment in Montrose County to more than $7.6 million. Its funding has also supported the Connect Trail initiative, improvements at Holly Park, Naturita Town Park and Sweitzer Lake State Park and conservation of the Galley Ranch.

 

G.O.C.O uses a portion of Colorado Lottery proceeds to preserve and enhance trails, parks, rivers, open spaces and wildlife resources. Since its creation after a 1992 amendment to the state constitution, GOCO has funded more than 5,300 projects in all of Colorado’s 64 counties, without using tax dollars.

 

To learn more, visit us at Montrosepress.com.

 

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

 

Captain Smith’s Cabin in Delta was built in 1911. It’s an unusual example of stone construction. An on-site sandstone formation serves as the main cabin's south wall. A small stone guest cabin is located to the east. The cabin is most noted for its secret room behind the hinged bookcase.

 

Have you visited?

 

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

 

Celeste was born in 1985 in Palm Springs, California.

 

She spent her early childhood years in Palm Springs. When she was 10, the family moved to Montrose. Celeste graduated from Montrose High School in 2003.

 

When she was 18, her mother, Shelby, passed away after her battle with cancer. Celeste quickly assumed the role of mother figure to her four siblings.

 

Then, in 2011 Celeste met the love of her life, Jacob.

 

Jake and Celeste shared many interests and she proudly promoted Jake’s numerous talents working with wood and rock creations. They loved the outdoors, sports, fishing, their families, and most of all, their love for each other.

 

In 2016, Jake and Celeste were married in Ridgway, with their families, friends, and the Lord in attendance. It was a beautiful day. She was radiant and proud to be Mrs. Jacob Swanson.

 

Anyone who knew her could feel the love, compassion, and dedication she had.

 

Celeste’s work ethic was impeccable. She was admired by her coworkers, her employers, and customers and clients.

 

She wore many hats in the community as a waitress at various restaurants, and retail establishments.

 

Celeste was and always will remain the brightest light this world has known, with the radiant smile we were always greeted with, as well as her contagious laugh. Her love was felt by all but none more than her closest friends, her family, and her dedicated husband.

 

Jacob now mourns the loss of his wife and their precious baby boy, who joined his mother in heaven.

 

Celeste will be greatly missed by her family, her friends, and everyone who knew her. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate her 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 17th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- United States Representative Lauren Boebert held a town hall on Monday at the Turn of the Century Saloon.

 

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. 

 

United States Representative Lauren Boebert held a town hall on Monday. The event was at Turn of the Century Saloon.

 

The initial announcement asked people not to share or post the event to social media, for security reasons, but word spread all the same. A previous event featuring Boebert that was set for Montrose was canceled after unspecified threats.

 

Boebert began by emphasizing how challenging the last couple of months have been.

 

Boebert spent a lot of her time discussing the equality act, and brought up the issue of girls sports.

 

Finally, Boebert discussed a trip to Arizona where she described the situation at the US Mexico border. She called Trump’s wall big and beautiful and incomplete. 

 

At the end of the town hall she discussed “cancel culture”, saying that it was nothing new.

 

Yesterday, Rural Colorado United, a Pueblo-based political action committee that’s opposed to Boebert, held their own town hall. It took place in Riverbottom Park. Organizers dubbed it the “Thanks for Nothing, Boebert” town hall and in the announcement criticized Boebert’s no vote on the recent coronavirus relief bill.

To watch the full video of Boebert’s town hall visit the Montrose Daily Press facebook page.

 

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

 

Scott Warren Miles. Scott has been a resident of Montrose off and on since 1983. He graduated from Montrose High and attended Evangel Christian University in Springfield, Missouri.

 

Scott was a very loving and sensitive man with an infectious laugh that you would never forget. He was a habitual note-taker - just like his father. He often listed favorite movies or favorite songs. He loved to quiz his family and friends with trivia or share an old song that he loved.

 

Scott’s hobbies included music, golf, skiing, and photography, but his true passion was spending time with his son Michael.

 

Scott was preceded in death by his father, and is survived by his mother, his son, and his brother and sister-in-law. Scott will truly be 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.

Good morning and welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s MondayMarch 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 - The USS Pueblo was captured by North Korea in 1968. The ship has remained there - on display - ever since. Now, Lauren Boebert says it’s time for it to come home.

 

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

 

Now, our feature story.

 

According to US Representative Lauren Boebert, it’s time for the USS Pueblo to come home. Boebert introduced a bill to make the return of the captured ship a priority in future discussions with North Korea.

 

She said that for 53 years, North Korea has unlawfully held the USS Pueblo captive. She also described it as being on display as a war trophy in the capital city.

 

The ship was named for Pueblo, Colorado, and to her, bringing home the ship is a personal priority. It’s also an important national effort to honor fallen Petty Officer Duane Hodges.

 

The Pueblo was captured in violation of international maritime law on January 23rd, 1968. At the time it was on a mission in international waters off of the North Korean coast.

 

The seizure resulted in Office Hodge’s death as well as the imprisonment of 82 American soldiers. The soldiers were imprisoned for nearly a year.

 

NBC Nightly News featured the story of the capture and what followed…

 

Boebert’s new legislation aims to facilitate the return of the ship to the United States. It also aims to re-state that the USS Pueblo is the property of the United States Navy and the attack on it, murder of Hodges and inhumane captivity of American sailors violated international law.

 

Ultimately, the bill calls on President Joe Biden and the Secretary of State to make the ship’s return essential in future discussions with North Korea.

 

And before we go we’re excited to highlight that Phase I of the Uncompahgre River Improvements Project is complete and open to the public! The project was completed under budget, ahead of schedule and injury-free.

 

Construction of the project began last fall and included the stabilization of riverbanks, restoration of a more natural stream system, improvement of aquatic and habitats, and improvement of river access and fishing opportunities.

 

The project was made possible through a partnership with the Montrose Urban Renewal Authority and grants from the Colorado Water Conservation Board and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

 

City Engineer Scott Murphy said that they are excited to bring this new recreational and fishing asset to residents.

 

The city will hold a virtual ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the project. The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 22 at 1p.m.

 

You can watch the ceremony live online at the City of Montrose’s Facebook page.

 

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 12th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

Today - The US Army took possession of a substantial amount of military-grade explosives that were found in Montrose County.

 

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, the Montrose County Sheriff Gene Lillard reported that The US Army took possession of a substantial amount of military-grade explosives found in Montrose County.

 

So far, no arrests have been made. The Army is reportedly eyeing a person of interest.

 

It all began last month, when a person using a metal detector discovered military-style containers.

 

Inside the metal containers, responding deputies found C-4 or similar explosives, all wrapped in cellophane.

 

The County Sheriff emphasized that it was a substantial amount, but right now they’re unable to provide the exact amount given it’s an ongoing investigation.

 

But Lillard did say that it’s possible there was a U.S. Army soldier involved in this. It appeared to have been stolen from an Army base, either here in the U.S. or overseas.

 

The explosives were found separate from blasting caps or other ignition devices. They were accessible for use and illegal to possess.

 

Lillard noted that it was military-grade explosive and you cannot even possess dynamite and blasting caps without proper authorization. 

 

Upon discovering the explosives, the MCSO contacted the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit based at Fort Carson, in Colorado Springs. Lillard said a team from that unit took custody of the explosives and notified the Criminal Investigation Command who took charge of the investigation.

 

It remains a big concern, so to stay up to date on this story, or read more, visit us at Montrosepress.com.

 

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

 

The Townsend house in Montrose was constructed in 1882 by Thomas B. Townsend, an Englishman who moved to the area to pursue investments in mines.

 

Townsend was also a co-founder of the Montrose County Bank. The home is one of the oldest permanent residences in the valley. It’s also an excellent example of the American Victorian style of architecture. 

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And finally, before we go we’d like to remember the life of Charolotte Lewis. Charolotte was born in Memphis, Texas in 1934.

 

She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior when she was 5 years old. In 1944, at the age of 10 she dedicated her life to serve Christ. She loved the church and was always active in helping anyway she could. Charolotte delighted the congregation by singing specials in church and participating in Christian skits. She was even known as “The Bread Lady” because she always baked fresh bread and gave it to visitors of the church along with scriptures. Charolotte also taught Sunday school, worked at Vacation Bible School, played the piano in church, worked in Christ’s Kitchen, helped with outreaches, and much more. The Lord was always number one in her life. She had a heart of gold and loved serving other people.

 

Charolotte married Wayne Lewis, the love of her life, in  1951. They had four children whom they loved very much and raised with lots of love and laughter. 

 

When Charolotte was in her 40s she went to UNM in Gallup, New Mexico, and became a registered nurse. She was the oldest student in her class, yet ranked second at graduation. Her husband Wayne was mayor of Gallup at the time of graduation and got to present her with her diploma. She worked in Gallup for a surgical doctor until Wayne retired. Years later she became a hospice nurse, which was fitting for her because of her big kind heart.

 

After they retired, they traveled around in their motorhome and had a great time with friends and family, seeing the USA, sightseeing, meeting new people, camping, and fishing. Then, in 1992 they moved to Montrose, and joined Rosemont Baptist Church just a week after they moved there.

 

Charolotte’s strongest attribute was her sense of humor and her ability to find humor in any situation. She kept people entertained with her quick wit. She loved to embroider. She probably gave away 1000 cup towels. She also was in several bridge clubs at one time and loved her bridge friends. 

 

Charolotte was a member of the Montrose Women’s Club and participated in the All Women’s Spring Renewal each year. 

 

She will be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Charolotte’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 I’m subbing in today! Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday March 10th and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- Delta County Memorial Hospital District employees may be able to join a former nurse’s suit now that a collective action notice has been approved approved.

 

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. 

 

More Delta County Memorial Hospital District employees could now have the option of joining a former nurse’s suit over wages. 

 

Earlier this week the proposed action notice was approved by a federal judge.

 

Krystal Gray, worked for the hospital from 2015 through 2019. She sued the year she left. Gray brought suit under the Fair Labor Standards Act. She contended that she and some other workers were not properly paid.

 

The hospital denies these allegations, saying it has properly paid wages and overtime wages. They further dispute that Gray’s suit should proceed as a collective action.

 

But Gray maintained she and others were forced to work during breaks and mealtimes. She also says that the hospital actively discouraged her from claiming time she worked outside of her regular hours. 

 

Among other things she is seeking compensation for her allegedly unpaid work. She’s also seeking to demonstrate that Delta County Memorial Hospital’s policies and practices are in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act. 

 

By a 2016 policy, the hospital provided a 30-minute meal period each workday and required employees like Gray to take those meals in a non-work area; the policy also stated they would not be paid since they would be relieved of their duties. 

The Gray suit alleges the employees remained responsible for patient care during meals, anyway, and were often interrupted with work.

 

Delta County Memorial Hospital District argued back that Gray did not provide substantial allegations of a single decision, plan or policy related to the alleged lack of compensation.

 

Further, the hospital’s attorneys said the case would require individual analyses of employee meal period and off-the-clock work, so collective action is not appropriate.

 

But U.S. District Judge R. Brooke Jackson’s March 1 order granted Gray’s request for a conditional certification.

 

Jackson stated that the defendant’s codified meal period, timekeeping and overtime policies were uniform and applied to all hourly patient care employees.

 

Jackson also stated that the defendant appears to have achieved this outcome through a combination of formal and informal policies. But there is no question that the same practices applied across all relevant staff.

 

Ultimately, Jackson found that Gray met the minimal legal burden to certify a collective action.

 

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

 

Allena Mae, or Carroll, Stanton. Allena was born in 1930 in Iowa.

 

She grew up in western Iowa and graduated from Salix High School. After graduation she worked in finance, then married Henry Stanton who she had met while vacationing in Colorado. After they married, they settled on a ranch near Ridgway, where they raised their family and shared 52 happy years of marriage before Henry’s death in 2002.

 

Allena enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. She especially liked camping trips and seeing new places. She would tell of the special times spent with her husband explaining ancient Indian ruins and other historical sights. 

 

She worked as secretary of the Ridgway School for 25 years, retiring in 1987. Shealso  was active in the Ridgway Community Church for many years and later. After moving to Montrose she became a member of the Montrose Christian Church. For several years she was also a member of the Rebekah Lodge and had an active part in the Montrose Christian Women’s Club.

 

After the death of her husband, she made a home in Montrose, while also spending some time at the ranch in Ridgway. The times at the ranch became less as she became more involved in bible studies, volunteering at a nursing home and playing dominos and pinochle with her friends. 

 

She’ll be greatly missed. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Allena’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 MondayMarch 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 -  It’s been nearly one year since a Montrose man was fatally shot by a Park Service ranger. Now, his mother is turning her mourning into a march for change.

 

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.

 

Kimberly Beck finds herself where no mother wants to be — mourning the loss of a son. But in memory of Charles “Gage” Lorentz she is turning her mourning into a march for change. Gage was fatally shot by a National Park Service ranger at New Mexico’s Carlsbad Caverns on March 21st, 2020.

 

Beck says that it’s been almost a year and they still have no answers.

 

Lorentz’s family is hosting a peaceful march to advocate for change in police procedures and the legal shield of qualified immunity. 

 

The march is at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 13 — just one week shy of the anniversary of his death. 

 

March 21st last year, Lorentz was headed home to Montrose. He planned to stop at Carlsbad Caverns National Park to meet up with a friend.

 

Park Ranger Robert Mitchell pulled him over for driving too fast through the Rattlesnake Springs area and reportedly striking a sign.

 

The lawsuit against Mitchell and the Park Service stated that Mitchell almost immediately moved to arrest their son. It also stated that he escalated the use of force to beyond what was necessary.

 

Body camera footage obtained by KOBTV shows Mitchell giving commands and Lorentz shaking his head “no”. He then appears to shift from foot to foot; and Mitchell tasers him and the camera cuts off for almost 30 seconds. When footage resumes, Lorentz is being shot twice, once in the chest.

 

His family rejects the NPS assertion that the Taser had been ineffective and that Lorentz struggled with and struck Mitchell. They say their son did not provoke what happened; and that there was no need for a speeding contact to end in gunfire. They also say that the missing 26 seconds of body camera footage is highly suspect.

 

Their federal complaint argues that Lorentz was not acting in a threatening manner. He was shot in the leg, and although that would have been enough to render him helpless, a second round was fired into his chest.

 

Further, the suit alleges that no aid was rendered until almost 20 minutes after the shooting.

 

The U.S. The Attorney's Office is representing the Park Service and Mitchell in the suit.

 

Lorentz’s loved ones have now spent a year without him, one filled with anger, emptiness and constant heartache, according to Beck.

 

One of her goals is to raise awareness about her son. She also wants to prompt changes in law enforcement methods in a positive way.

 

Community members are invited to attend next week’s peaceful march in Lorentz’s honor. For more information about the march, send a message through the “Justice for Gage Lorentz” Facebook page.

 

And before we go we’d like to highlight some exciting news. 

 

The City of Montrose has been granted $25,000 from History Colorado to prepare a historic context survey. The survey will inform historic preservation efforts in Montrose’s Tortilla Flats neighborhood.

 

The project is an initiative of the City’s Historic Preservation Commission.

 

Tortilla Flats enjoys a rich history, and the city is interested in diving deeper to uncover the depth of it’s story.

 

The area was once home to a chapel established by Native Americans who had been enslaved in Mexico territory.

 

The old Spanish trail ran through the Tortilla Flats, and it was also home to the oldest irrigation ditch in the Valley.

 

According to the city’s press release, the Tortilla Flats Neighborhood Photovoice Project, which was led by the Hispanic Affairs Project, served as inspiration for the city’s Historic Preservation Commission to pursue this historic context survey project.

 

HPC Chairman Jon Horn says that hopefully this will result in more recognition of the contributions of the residents of that neighborhood and the Hispanic community.

 

The project is slated to begin in the summer.

 

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 5th, and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, jobs, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

Today - On Monday the owners of the Colorado Yurt Company presented a proposal to Montrose City Council. Their goal is to build a 30,0000-square foot manufacturing and office space on over 3 acres of Colorado Outdoors.

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John and Kelly Gibson, the owners of the Colorado Yurt Company, are ready to expand into something bigger.

On Monday the Gibsons presented a proposal to Montrose City Council. They’re hoping to build a 30,0000-square foot manufacturing and office space on over 3 acres of Colorado Outdoors.

The project would break ground this summer.

In Monday’s meeting John Gibson explained how business has gone during the pandemic.

The project would create new jobs over the next three years, including five jobs with a salary of $70,000.

The cost of the development is a projected $7.2 million. The Gibsons are seeking the help from the city in the form of incentives like building permit fee waivers, marketing assistance, and water and sewer connection fee abatements.

For now, City Manager Bill Bell said the city is working with the company and its contractor to lower costs before city council formally votes on any incentive package.

There’s excitement among Colorado Yurt employees about the potential project. The project provides a path for more growth in the outdoor and recreation industries.

Mayor Barbara Bynum said that supporting a local business that is looking at expanding not just a little, but a lot is great to see.

Mayfly Outdoors Founder David Dragoo told the Montrose Daily Press that he thinks it’ll be a tremendous asset for the community.

The proposal of the project comes as Colorado Yurt Company experienced a successful 2020. The company’s total sales for the year were up 45%. 

In the past year, the industry itself has thrived. Multiple Montrose-based outdoor companies reported seeing an uptick in interest among outdoor activity.

To stay up to date on this story, or read 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.

Since 1992, the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival has been held on the first Saturday in August. It’s dedicated to the region's "agricultural jewel", Olathe Sweet Corn. The Festival features entertainment like craft shows, karaoke, local acts, like the Anders Brothers, Cabin Fever Band, and concerts by bigger names like Styx, LeAnn Rimes, and Clint Black. The proceeds go to local non-profit groups.

And finally, before we go we’re excited to highlight a local forest entomologist who won the Richard Fitzgerald Award for Excellence in Forest Management.

The Richard Fitzgerald Award for Excellence in Forest Management was recently presented to Amy Lockner, an entomologist from the USDA Forest Service’s Rocky Mountain Region.

Lockner was acknowledged for her work on the Wilder and Gunnison-Highlands project. The award is a traveling trophy that will spend the next year in Gunnison in her honor.

The Fitzgerald Award was established back in 2018. Richard Fitzgerald was one of the longest serving employees in agency history.

Lockner is the third person to receive the award.

Matt McCombs the Gunnison District Ranger said that Amy’s knowledge and passion is fused with a deep commitment to the health of America’s forests. He noted he’s thrilled she’s being properly recognized for her efforts.

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/

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Good morning I’m subbing in today! Welcome to Montrose Fresh, from The Montrose Daily Press. It’s Wednesday March 3rd and we’re here with local news, events, announcements, and more that matter to us here in Western Colorado. 

 

 Today -- Starting this Friday - eligible Montrose County residents will be able to receive the newly approved Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccination.

 

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Now, our feature story. 

 

Starting on Friday March 5th -- yes this Friday -- eligible Montrose County residents will be able to receive the newly approved Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccination.

 

Montrose County Public Health has also changed the method for scheduling COVID-19 vaccines. You can now register for an appointment at www.montrosecountyjic.com/vaccination.

 

The county will also move into Phase 1B.3 of vaccine distribution on Friday. Those who will be eligible include people 60 and older; frontline essential agricultural and grocery store workers; and people 16 - 59 with two or more high risk conditions.

 

Those in the earlier phases remain eligible for vaccination appointments.

 

The first public-facing clinic with the Johnson & Johnson vaccination will have a goal to administer 1,000 doses.

 

Montrose County officials say the new registration should certainly ease the communication process.

 

Commissioner Sue Hansen said that this means that they have at least made one or more contact with everyone on the pre-registration list who is eligible.

 

More providers have also signed up to administer the vaccine according to Public Health Director Jim Austin.

 

Austin said that community members now have the option to receive a vaccination at over 10 different locations including doctor’s offices and pharmacies that offer flexible schedules and trusted medical expertise.

Second dose clinics have priority at this time, and additional first doses are added as space is available. Please keep in mind that plans may change week-to-week as the county receives allocations on a weekly basis from the state of Colorado.

 

To stay up to date on all coronavirus related news visit us at montrosepress.com

Next,

We’d like to recognize Mariah Garcia of the OHS girls basketball team.

For the most part, the Pirates have dominated or kept neck-and-neck with their opponents this season.

 

Senior Mariah Garcia has been a key part of the success.

Her coach says that she’s a person that just loves basketball, loves the game. She’s very athletic, and her desire on the floor really shows through. Coach also praised her attitude on the floor.

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

Raymond Albert Markey. Ray was born in Montrose and attended school in Ouray, graduating from Ouray High School in 1967. After his military service and traveling the country for work, Ray always chose to return home.

 

Ray enjoyed life. He was one of those people who could get along with anyone, and fit into any group in which he joined. In high school he was an outstanding athlete and played on the High School baseball and basketball teams. He was voted“Most Athletic” and had perfect attendance. His high school friends, to this day, will recall Ray and his old green pickup that was often one of the few vehicles among those friends that was in running condition.

 

In 1968, Ray joined the US Army. He often joked that, when he joined, he was asked to list his interests. He said he wrote down “mechanics,” hoping to be assigned to a motor pool job, but they could not read his writing and he ended up in “medics.” Regardless, he proudly served his country. He served in Germany and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Medal. He achieved sharpshooter status and received a coveted Good Driver’s Award.

 

Ray attended Western State College prior to joining the army. He worked in the mining industry for years and developed many friends while selling the latest in mining equipment. 

 

Ray’s love of sports did not leave him when he left high school. He and best friend coached several Little League baseball teams, often paying for equipment from his own pocket.  He was also an avid bowler, which came naturally considering his very first job was setting pins at the Elks Lodge bowling alleys. He became a member of the Ouray Elks Lodge #492 in March of 1977 and remained a loyal member until his death.

Ray also served as a member of the Volunteer Fire Department for more than 30 years and helped with the Fourth of July Celebration.

Ray’s friends will always remember him as loving life. He enjoyed dancing, especially a good polka. He enjoyed the outdoors and went fishing whenever he could and was at his happiest when those trips included grandchildren. He also liked to make wine and became known around town for his lavender products. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and everyone who knew him. Thank you for taking a moment today to remember and celebrate Ray’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 MondayMarch 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 -  If passed Senate Bill 21-116 would require all schools with Native American mascots, including some Montrose schools, to change the mascots…. and if they don’t, a monthly $25,000 fine would be imposed. 

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Now, our feature story.

After 81 years, the Washington professional football team dropped “Redskins” from the franchise’s name after more than a decade of scrutiny. The Cleveland Indians baseball team also dropped their name after 100 years.

Those same types of conversations are now taking place at the amateur level across Colorado school districts after lawmakers proposed a bill to ban use of Native American mascots by public schools, charter schools and universities. 

Senate Bill 21-116 says the use of such imagery as mascots creates an unsafe learning environment , impacting students’ mental health and promoting bullying.

If passed, the bill would require all schools with Native American mascots, including some Montrose schools, to change the mascots. If they don’t,  a monthly $25,000 fine would be imposed. 

Locally, the Montrose High School Indians and the Centennial Middle School Braves would likely be affected by this legislation.

MCSD Public Information Officer Matt Jenkins said that MHS hopes to foster stronger relationships with the tribes and honor their heritage through use of the high school mascot. 

And the student council is reaching out to the tribes to seek their perspectives.

If and when the legislation concerning Native American mascots changes, Jenkins said MCSD will adjust accordingly.

The sponsors of the bill aim to retire all American Indian mascots in the state, hoping the action will provide another step toward justice and healing to the descendants of the survivors of the Sand Creek Massacre.

State Senator Don Coram, a Montrose Republican and an MHS Indians alumnus, views the mascot as a way to honor the Native American heritage in the area.

He said quote “I am a Montrose Indian graduate and support the name because in our community, it’s used as honor and respect”  Visit NABUR.montrosepress.com.

And before we go,  we’d like to take a moment today to remember the life of Granvill Gage. He was born in Montrose in 1939, and grew up here. He met the love of his life Gloria Smidt in Montrose and they were married in 1959. 

He also received his undergraduate and master’s degree from the Western State College of Colorado in Gunnison and served in the Army National Guard while attending College. His daughter Shelley was born in 1964 and his son Kevin in 1968.

Although he had a love for the state of Colorado, he moved the family to Hawthorne, Nevada in 1974 when he was offered the principal’s position. He became one of the community organizers in Hawthorne and continued to grow with the Mineral County School District. He had a way of inspiring all students, he knew all of them by name, and was often seen at school events supporting students and parents. Gage retired as the Mineral County school superintendent in 1999. His philosophy in education was “if you expect the most from a child you will always get their best.”

Granvill led with a quiet strength and presence, supporting his family and community. He had a love for the great outdoors and on weekends and vacations he would be hunting, fishing, and enjoying family time outdoors. He loved his time with his friends and the entire family knew not to interrupt his daily “garage time” with his buddies. He will be greatly missed by his family, and everyone who knew him. Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Granvill’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.