A major accident on Highway 50 near Menoken Hill stalled traffic this morning.  According to the Colorado State Patrol, James Thomas, driving a GMC truck was crossing all 4 lanes of Highway 50 from 6075 frontage road.  Lillian Lovato, driving a Chevy Tahoe, was traveling south on Colorado 50 in the right lane.  Lovato sweved to the left to miss Thomas and came onto the center median, rolling her Tahoe, landing in the center lanes of the northbound traffic.  Thomas stopped, and then left the scene.  He later called 911.  Lovato was seriously injured, and taken to Montrose Memorial Hospital.  She is listed in fair condition.
Source: CSP

Colorado’s 3^rd Congressional District Representative John Salazar is formally endorsing former Montrose Mayor Noelle Hagan’s bid for the Colorado state house.  Hagan will face off against Cortez resident Scott Tipton in the November election.  Hagan, who announced her candidacy in July of 2007, recently completed eight years on the Montrose City Council, including two terms as Mayor. If elected, Hagan will represent a six county area that includes Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel, Dolores and parts of Montezuma and Delta counties.
Source: Press Release
AUDIO LISTEN To Noelle Hagan Talk About The Endorsement 

Montrose County has been removed from the state’s Election Watch List after correcting deficiencies following the 2006 General Election.  Secretary of State Mike Coffman agreed that Montrose County had overcome the prior issues.  According to the press release from Coffman’s office, he is very pleased and impressed with the progress of Montrose County Clerk and Recorder Fran Long and her staff and is proud to remove the county from the watch list.  The county was place on the Election Watch List in March 2007.  Coffman also announced the removal of Routt County from the Election Watch List.
Source: Press Release

An investigation is underway regarding a male body found this morning about a mile from the Department of Energy compound in Orchard Mesa.  Deputies and investigators have turned the body over to the Mesa Coroner’s Office who will determine the cause and manner of death, as well as the identity of the deceased. The body was found between the railroad tracks and the Gunnison River.
Source: Mesa County Sheriff’s Office

OSHA is investigating yesterday’s crane accident in Vail.  The Vail Mountaineer reports that no injuries were reported when the crane, carrying lumber, became unstable and tipped.  The accident slowed traffic on I-70 for several hours.  The crane is apart of a 32-condo project at Vail Spa Condominiums.
Source: The Vail Mountaineer/AP

King Soopers, parent company of City Market has removed all jalapeno peppers from their stores.  NBC 11 News reports that jalapenos instead of tomatoes may have the strain of salmonella that is making hundreds of American’s sick.  Apparently the government is warning against eating fresh jalapenos or products containing them while they are under investigation.
Source: NBC 11 News

The University of Colorado says it would have to change some admissions programs and scholarships if voters pass a ballot initiative banning it from considering gender, race, ethnicity, color or national origin in education.   KJCT says that amendment 46 would ban state-supported institutions from considering those factors in employment, contracting or education. CU has about 100 donor-sponsored scholarships with eligibility requirements that might include a student’s gender, race or ethnicity. The school says it’ll work with donors to make sure scholarships are legal, if there are any changes in law. CU President Bruce Benson says the school will continue to regard diversity as a fundamental value, regardless of the election.
Source: KJCT/AP

Cheri Isgreen, an elementary art teacher in Montrose is one of 25 teachers participating in the inaugural year of the Teaching Ambassador Fellowship program.  The Daily Sentinel reports that Isgreen will assist the US Department of Education in policy making for one year, traveling back and forth between Montrose and Washington DC, while teaching full time.  Isgreen is hoping to complete 2 projects during her time on board with the program, one is helping teachers and school administrators to better understand how policy affects the classroom, and her second project is the push for art to be recognized as part of the core curriculum in the State of Colorado.
Source: Daily Sentinel

The Montrose County Republicans present Retired Air Force Colonel Thomas H. Kirk Jr. speaking on behalf of John McCain Wednesday July 30^th.  Colonel Kirk Jr. was a prisoner of war in Vietnam along side Senator McCain in Hanoi Hilton.  The speech with lunch will begin at noon at the Holiday Inn Express in Montrose.  Tickets are available to the public, and are $12.  They can be purchased at Laursen’s Repair & Beyond or DeVinny’s Jewelers. 

Lauren Shaddox is the new cultural outreach coordinator for the San Miguel Resource Center, and is fluent in Spanish.  According to the Daily Planet, 1/4^th of the Resource Center’s clients are Spanish speakers.  Shaddox replaced Karla Gonzalez, who held the position for the past 4 years.  Shaddox majored in Spanish at the University of Colorado in Boulder.  She is available from 9-5 Tuesday through Friday. The san Miguel Resource Center provides victims of domestic or sexual violence in the county with counseling, referral services, safe housing, and an anonymous hotline.  To reach the San Miguel Resource Center, call 728-5842. 
Source: The Daily Planet 

Jefferson County sheriff’s deputies have arrested a man suspected of firing at least one shot inside a Lakewood credit union before fleeing in a stolen vehicle.   KJCT reports that authorities say 27-year-old Tobias Archuleta was arrested without incident about 3 p.m. Wednesday about a mile southwest of the credit union.
Source: KJCT/AP

Broncos receiver Rod Smith is planning to hold a news conference today amid published reports that he’ll retire.  According to KJCT, the Broncos say they’re aware of the reports about Smith possibly retiring but didn’t know about a press conference. The 38-year-old Smith has been on the reserve/retired list since February.
Source: KJCT/AP

Remember the name: Edgewater Brewery Restaurant.  If Jim Jeffryes gets what he wants, he’ll be opening that brewery up by fall 2009.  According to the Daily Sentinel, the brewery would be the first retail business along the new Riverside Parkway.   This brewery would be Jeffryes’ second in Grand Junction, his first, Kannah Creek Brewing Company, opened in 2005.  If all goes according to plan, groundbreaking for the Edgewater Brewery Restaurant could take place this October. 
Source: The Daily Sentinel

The Town & Country Autoplex located at 212 W. Highway 50 in Gunnison has closed its doors, for good.  The Gunnison Times reports that the sign on the door reads, “regionalization of resources will benefit Town & Country as well as our loyal customer base.”  Vehicles are being relocated to the Salida store. 
Source: The Gunnison Times

It’s still unclear whether or not a uranium mill will be built in Paradox Valley, but the corporation was recently awarded 4 Department of Energy uranium-mining leases.  The Norwood Post reports that the only current operating uranium mill in the country is in Utah.  The next step for the Paradox Valley mine is development, which includes building a second mine as an emergency exit, and a license and building permit still need to be acquired by Energy Fuels before a facility gets built.  Despite what boom, Energy Fuels may have, groups, such as savingparadox.org are against the mill, mainly for environmental reasons. 
Source: The Norwood Post

The community of Telluride is invited to a meet and greet presentation at 4 o’clock tonight in Rebekah Hall regarding the Valley Floor.  The Daily Planet reports that the town of Telluride won the Valley Floor June 2^nd, and now wants to hear from the public about what should be done with it.  The presentation begins at 6.  For the past 2 weeks, environmental consultants have been inspecting the 570-acres, charging the city $200,000 dollars to do so.  Senior Ecologist and Vice President of Ecological Resource Consultants is excited for the public to come out, saying it’s important they get involved.
Source: The Daily Planet

A federal appeals court has sided with a Christian university’s argument that the state’s denial of financial aid to its students was unconstitutional.  KJCT reports that the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has reversed a lower court’s decision that had upheld denial of the state aid to students of Colorado Christian University in Lakewood.
Source: KJCT/AP

FOR SALE:  2- HEFERS, 1- BULL, A COUPLE OF COWS

FOR SALE:  1989 MERCURY SABLE, RUNS GOOD, LESS THAN 100,000 MILES

CALL:  234-7169

FOR SALE:  SOPRANO SAXAPHONE  $500.00

L- SHAPED LARGE COMPUTER DESK W/ EXTENSION  $50

COMPAQ COMPUTER  $150

CALL: PATRICIA @ 249-3168

FOR SALE: 2005 GMC DURAMAX P/U  21,000 MILES, ALLISON TRANSMISSION  $28,500

CALL: PHIL @ 209-3006

FOR SALE:  LOTS OF DIFFERENT BIRD AND ANIMAL CAGES

CALL PHYLLIS @ 240-2813

FOR SALE: 18′ WILDERNESS BRAND CAMPER. HAS BATHROOM, SHOWER, GOOD TIRES, SINGLE AXEL, IN GOOD SHAPE.  $1500.00

CALL DENNIS @ 234-6004

FOR SALE: REMINGTON WING MASTER 20 GUAGE SHOTGUN W/ 90-100 #4 SHOT SHELLS  $275.00

7.62 JAPANESE HUNTING RIFLE W/ 4 POWER SCOPE. EQUIVILANT TO 30.06. GREAT BIG GAME RIFLE.  $250.00

CALL DALE @ 872-6064

FOR SALE: LAZY BOY ROCKER/RECLINER, LIKE NEW, BEIGE COLOR  $50

CALL MENTOR @ 240-9037

FOR SALE:  ADJUSTABLE METAL BED FRAME, (FULL, QUEEN, KING)  $10

8′ PICNIC TABLE W/ 1 BENCH  $5

87 NISSAN 4WDR P/U. 5 SPD, 6 CYL., TITLE MESSED UP BUT GREAT FOR OFFROAD.  $500

CALL GLEN OR MARY @ 260-1823 OR 255-9207 

MONTROSE COUNTY IS HAVING AG APPRECIATION DAY  ON WED. JULY 23^RD DURING THE MONTROSE COUNTY FAIR AT THE FAIRGROUNDS.  THERE’LL BE FREE HAMBURGERS AND HOTDOGS SERVED UP BY THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND REDCOATS FROM 5PM TO 7PM.  THERE’LL ALSO BE AN AWARDS CEREMONY FOR FARMER AND RANCHER OF THE YEAR AND DON’T FORGET THE KIDDIE TRACTOR PULL IN THE ARENA STARTING AT 5:30PM….

ON AUG 1^ST, 2^ND, AND 3^RD  THE OURAY COUNTY’S WOMEN IN SUPPORT OF EDUCATION WILL PRESENT “THE PAPER BAG BANDIT RIDES AGAIN”, AN OLD FASHIONED MELODRAMA.  THE PLAY WILL BE HELD AT THE OURAY SCHOOL AUDITORIUM ON 7^TH AVE WITH FRI. AND SAT. EVE. PERFORMANCES AT 7:30 AND SUNDAY MATINEE AT 3PM.  TICKETS ARE $10 FOR ADULTS AND $5 FOR CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER AND ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR.  FOR MORE DETAILS CALL THE CHAMBER RESORT ASSOC. AT 325-4746….

THIS WEEKEND’S SUMMER PROGRAM SERIES AT RIDGWAY STATE PARK WILL INCLUDE A PRESENTATION OF MINING IN OURAY COUNTY BY DON PAULSON , FRI. EVE. AT 7:30PM AT THE VISITOR’S CENTER.   SAT. MORNING, CHILDREN WILL ENJOY NATURE DETECTIVE SERIES AS THEY EXPLORE SOME OF THE ASPECTS AND EFFECTS OF GLOBAL WARMING ON OUR ENVIRONMENT.  AND SAT. EVE. STARTING AT 7:30 RIDGWAY RAILROAD MUSEUM DIRECTOR KARL SCHAEFFER WILL TALK ABOUT OURAY COUNTY RAILROAD AND GALLOPING GOOSE…..

THE CATCH THE READING BUG DRAMATIC READING CLUB, ALONG WITH THE CHILDREN’S LIBRARY STAFF AND FRIENDS WILL PRESENT 2 PUPPET SHOWS, SEVERAL BUG POEMS, AND A DRAMATIC READING ENTITLED; “THE PAPER BAG PRINCESS” AT THE MEETING ROOM OF THE LIBRARY ON THUR. JULY 24^TH  BEGINNING AT 2PM.  AGES 3 TO 103 ARE WELCOME.  FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT SANDRA AT 249.9656….

Cheri Isgreen, an elementary art teacher in Montrose is one of 25 teachers participating in the inaugural year of the Teaching Ambassador Fellowship program.  The Daily Sentinel reports that Isgreen will assist the US Department of Education in policy making for one year, traveling back and forth between Montrose and Washington DC, while teaching full time.  Isgreen is hoping to complete 2 projects during her time on board with the program, one is helping teachers and school administrators to better understand how policy affects the classroom, and her second project is the push for art to be recognized as part of the core curriculum in the State of Colorado.
Source: Daily Sentinel

Look out Telluride, there’s a new face in town.  Lauren Shaddox is the new cultural outreach coordinator for the San Miguel Resource Center, and is fluent in Spanish.  According to the Daily Planet, 1/4^th of the Resource Center’s clients are Spanish speakers.  Shaddox replaced Karla Gonzalez, who held the position for the past 4 years.  Shaddox majored in Spanish at the University of Colorado in Boulder.  She is available from 9-5 Tuesday through Friday. The san Miguel Resource Center provides victims of domestic or sexual violence in the county with counseling, referral services, safe housing, and an anonymous hotline.  To reach the San Miguel Resource Center, call 728-5842. 
Source: Telluride Daily Planet

NBC 11 News reports that the Riverside Parkway will open August 15^th.  The project cost around $110 million dollars and construction began in 2005.  The Riverside Parkway should alleviate traffic problems in the Grand Junction area.
Source: NBC 11 News

A body pulled from the Arkansas River is being identified as that of a man who had been reported missing to Salida police a week earlier.  KJCT reports that the El Paso County coroner’s office says dental records confirm that 37-year-old James Durgan of Salida was the man who was found dead on Saturday.
Source: KJCT

It’s a loophole big enough to drive a gas rig through. A new report from the Pew Environment Group finds an expected eleventh-hour move by the Bush administration could allow nearly a hundred gas leases to move forward on Colorado forestlands. The leases are in areas currently protected, along with millions of other acres nationwide, under the federal roadless rule. Pete Kolbenschlag with Pew says the move is bad news for Colorado’s most precious back country forests.  The Forest Service says they’re responding to a request by Governor Ritter. Representatives from Pew call it a case of “unintended consequences,” and say they hope the Governor will ask the government to suspend the process until the full impact can be studied. The new roadless area rules for Colorado are expected on Friday, which will begin a 90-day public comment period.
Source: Colorado News Connection

A critical incident team will investigate an officer-involved shooting in Montrose following an attack late Monday.  Police Chief Tom Chinn says Officer Mendoza shot at a 17-year-old boy who attacked him after Mendoza responded to a burglar alarm at Jan’s Auto.  The boy wasn’t hurt and was taken into custody.

Montrose County School District Re-1J and the City of Montrose are pleased to announce the fulfillment of the .5% sales tax dedication to the school district.  Beginning in 2000, and continuing through November 2002, a dedicated group of community members from Montrose and Olathe called, “It’s About Pride” developed and communicated a $23 million construction package to improve the district’s school buildings. The innovative funding package included a half-cent City of Montrose sales tax to raise $12 million and a traditional school district property tax bond to raise the remaining $11 million. Beginning in January 2003, each project has been completed - ahead of schedule and under budget.  The sales tax initiative was designed to sunset after generating $12 million, a process that was expected to last through 2009.  However, as of this month, the sales tax commitment has been met, and the tax rate will decrease from 3.5% to 3.0% beginning August 1, 2008.  Because of this change, the 2008 City of Montrose sales tax booklet will no longer be accurate.  Updated returns are available at www.cityofmontrose.org/salestax.
Source: Press Release

Be sure to check out Montrose County Fair’s Ag Appreciation Day today from 5-7pm.  While eating your free hamburger or hotdog provided by the Montrose Chamber Redcoats, you can watch the awards ceremony honoring the Farmer and Rancher of the year.  The Kiddie Tractor Pull will begin at 5:30.  For more information call 249-5000.

The Telluride Business Alliance is meeting today to discuss what everyone is discussing anymore-the economy.  According to the Daily Planet the meeting is at 9 a.m. in the second floor conference room of the Camel’s Garden Hotel.  The discussion will focus on the impacts of energy prices on the airline and tourism industry in Telluride. 
Source: The Telluride Daily Planet

The Montrose Farmer’s Market is now open on Wednesday’s as well as Saturday.  The market is open from 8:30am-1pm on Uncohmpahgre Ave, between Main Street and Centennial Plaza. The Saturday market is still being held on S. 1^st Street. 
Source: PSA

The Montrose Little League Junior Softball team is headed to Midland Texas after winning the state championship.  The Daily Press reports that the girls, ages 13 & 14 defeated a Boulder-area team 10-6 on Sunday.  The regional tournament begins August 1^st.  The girls travel expenses are sponsored by JetAway Aviation in Montrose. 
Source: Montrose Daily Press

A body recovered yesterday in the Arkansas River in Pueblo is believed to be that of 31-year-old Ryan Baker.  KKTV reports that Baker was kayaking Friday when he went under.  Search crews have been looking through the river since.  The body was found by two people fishing.  Baker leaves behind a 6-year-old daughter in Florida. 
Source: KKTV-News Channel 11

Durango Police arrested one of America’s Most Wanted yesterday.  Rodney Lee Keller was taken into custody on warrants stemming from two alleged sexual assaults on a child investigation that occurred in La Plata County.  Police were alerted that Keller was in Durango when a citizen called 911 reportedly seeing him.  Keller was described by America’s Most Wanted as a drifter who targeted families with 6-year-old girls. He is being held in La Plata County Jail.
Source: Press Release

The Ouray County Fair board is meeting next week to discuss a change in next year’s County Fair dates.  Ouraynews.com reports that the meeting is open to the public but doesn’t say why a change of date is needed.  The meeting is at 6pm next Tuesday at the 4-H event center.
Source: Ouraynews.com

Montrose PD responded to a burglary alarm at a local business on S. Hillcrest Avenue around 10:45 last night. 
AUDIO  LISTEN To Police Chief Tom Chinn Explain Monday Night’s Burglary
The 17-year-old male is being held at the Department of Youth Corrections in Grand Junction.  Officer Mendoza was treated and released at Montrose Memorial Hospital.  The Seventh Judicial District Critical Incident Team is investigating the shooting.  The DA will make the decision as to whether the shooting incident was justifiable.  Jan Einboden, owner of Jan’s Auto says she was able to reopen her business around noon today.
AUDIO  LISTEN To Jan Einboden Praise The Local Police Department

Montrose County School District Re-1J and the City of Montrose are pleased to announce the fulfillment of the .5% sales tax dedication to the school district.  Beginning in 2000, and continuing through November 2002, a dedicated group of community members from Montrose and Olathe called, “It’s About Pride” developed and communicated a $23 million construction package to improve the district’s school buildings. The innovative funding package included a half-cent City of Montrose sales tax to raise $12 million and a traditional school district property tax bond to raise the remaining $11 million. Beginning in January 2003, each project has been completed - ahead of schedule and under budget.  The sales tax initiative was designed to sunset after generating $12 million, a process that was expected to last through 2009.  However, as of this month, the sales tax commitment has been met, and the tax rate will decrease from 3.5% to 3.0% beginning August 1, 2008.  Because of this change, the 2008 City of Montrose sales tax booklet will no longer be accurate.  Updated returns are available at www.cityofmontrose.org/salestax.
Source: Press Release

Barack Obama opened his 5^th campaign office in Colorado today.  The Daily Sentinel reports that the Democratic presidential hopeful opened his Western Slope campaign office at 844 Grand Avenue in Grand Junction. 
Source: The Daily Sentinel

The top two airlines at Denver International Airport have announced 130 more job cuts, with one announcing more flight reductions. Rocky Mountain News reports that United Airlines plans to lay off 17 pilots in September, and Frontier Airlines plans to lay off 113 non-union employees September 9^th.  Since June, Frontier has announced 569 layoffs in Denver while United has announced cuts of 167 people at its Denver hub.  United plans to end its one daily departure from Denver to Charlotte, North Carolina and is also ending Denver-to-London flights, which it began offering March 30th.
Source: Rocky Mountain News

A wildfire burning in Mesa County is about 50% contained. The fire is five miles southwest of Parachute and is burning on about 150 acres on this morning. It was sparked by lightning last night. Bureau of Land Management spokesman David Boyd says no evacuations have been ordered.
Source: KJCT/AP

Roger Brown is running for Montrose County Commissioner District 3.  The Primary election is August 12^th.  Only those associated with a party can vote.  Roger wants the county to embrace change.  Among many issues Roger wants to address if he is elected is planning and implementing public transportation, improving West End County services, and promoting more public participation in county business.  The Montrose County Commissioners meet in Montrose the 3^rd Monday of every month at 9am.  Also, if you were not registered to vote by July 14^th, you cannot vote in the primary election. 
AUDIO LISTEN To Some Of Roger Brown’s Interview

It’s record breaking, that’s what Grand Junction Regional Airport is saying as they have reached their highest travel numbers, ever.  KJCT reports that they have reached 21,000 passengers, which is 1,000 more than this time last year.  Success is being attributed to the opening of Frontier Airlines, and direct flights to Dallas/Fort Worth.  It’s unsure how long the record number will hold, with the price of fuel, but GJT is thrilled with the record high numbers.
Source: KJCT

Bad weather delayed a rescue in San Miguel County yesterday.  David Grant Keep, a 51-year-old New York resident fell from Wilson Peak yesterday and broke his leg.  He sent a text message to a friend in Telluride who alerted authorities.  A passerby hiker saw Keep around 10:45 in the morning.  A helicopter from Durango arrived around 1, but he couldn’t be rescued until mid-afternoon due to bad weather.  Keep was transported to St. Mary’s hospital.  It’s reported that his leg is broke in three places.
Source: Press Release

What does Montrose mean to you?  That’s what the Montrose Visitors & Convention Bureau wants to know as they have partnered up with North Star Destination Strategies to determine what makes this area special enough to stand out against others.  An online survey is available for Montrose residents at the city of Montrose website.  All information will remain confidential.  Visit cityofmontrose.org to fill out the survey.
Source: City of Montrose

“Understanding Memory Loss & Dementia” is a free informational program about Alzheimer’s that will be held at 4 o’clock July 30^th at the Willow Tree Care Center in Delta.  The Delta County Independent reports that regional director of the Western Slope Office of the Alzheimer’s Association, Laurie Fraiser will be the presenter.  The program will give basic overview of the disease, and will have a Q&A session as well as pamphlets available.  For more information call 256-1274.
Source: The Delta County Independent

Montrose Memorial Hospital is hosting an Open House for their new CEO, Keith Broach, Monday, July 28^th from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.  The reception will be in the Lobby Grille near the front entrance at Montrose Memorial Hospital.  The public is encouraged to attend.
Source: Press Release

The suspension bridge linking the Animas River Trail to the Crestview area in Durango is now open.  The bridge was closed in early June to replace the wood elements, including the decking and railing. Reconstruction of the Swinging Bridge was completed on Friday, July 18.  History buffs will be interested to know that the bridge still swings. The community is invited to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 30, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Swinging Bridge in Riverfront Park to celebrate the completion of the project.  For additional information, contact Durango Parks and Recreation Department at 375-7300.
Source: Press Release

A dry summer is taking its toll on the town of Poncha Springs in Chaffee County.  According to KJCT, town administrator Patricia Alderton has notified water customers that any and all outdoor watering is banned.  That restriction — issued last week — remains in effect.  Authorities are calling 2008 the fourth-driest year on record.  Officials say the water tanks in Poncha Springs aren’t completely dry, but they are at dangerously low levels — especially since the town’s water supply is also used for fire protection.  Alderton says the more area residents conserve water, the quicker the outdoor watering ban can be lifted.
Source: KJCT/AP

Montrose Memorial Hospital is hosting an Open House for their new CEO, Keith Broach, Monday, July 28^th from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.  The reception will be in the Lobby Grille near the front entrance at Montrose Memorial Hospital.  The hospital encourages the public to attend.
Source: Press Release

One person is dead after a motorcycle/pickup-truck crash on Highway 550 near the Dutch Charlie entrance to the Ridgway State Park.  The Daily Sentinel reports that Julie Laux was riding with her husband Thomas on their 2007 Harley Davidson when a Chevy Silverado pulled out in front of them.  Both Laux’s were taken to Montrose Memorial Hospital, sustaining serious injuries.  Julie was pronounced dead at the hospital.  The Sanderson’s were in the Silverado, and uninjured.  The Laux’s are from Green Valley, California. 
Source: Grand Junction Sentinel

If you’re looking for something to do tonight, why not hang out at the Montrose County Fairgrounds and watch the Tractor Pull?  There are events going on all day at the fairgrounds, and the tractor pull begins in the arena at 7 o’clock.  Events go all through the week until the last person is left dancing Saturday night after the Colgate Country Showdown an the County Fair Dance.

A dry summer is taking its toll on the town of Poncha Springs in Chaffee County.  According to KJCT, town administrator Patricia Alderton has notified water customers that any and all outdoor watering is banned.  That restriction — issued last week — remains in effect.  Authorities are calling 2008 the fourth-driest year on record.  Officials say the water tanks in Poncha Springs aren’t  completely dry, but they are at dangerously low levels — especially since the town’s water supply is also used for fire protection.  Alderton says the more area residents conserve water, the quicker the outdoor watering ban can be lifted.
Source: KJCT/AP

Gov. Bill Ritter says he remains opposed to the federal government’s plan to issue gas-drilling leases for western Colorado’s Roan Plateau.  KJCT says that the plan includes roughly 34,000 acres on the top of the plateau, an area considered particularly sensitive by some because of the wildlife habitat.  The Bureau of Land Management, which will offer the leases in an Aug. 14 auction, has said that efforts by Ritter and others to modify its plan for the Roan won’t stop the sale.  Ritter says the way the sale is structured will deprive the state of revenue. He says some areas won’t be drilled for up to 40 years and should be auctioned one at a time.  The BLM estimates the plateau contains 9 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas.
Source: KJCT/AP

The City of Montrose and the County are working together regarding appointments of council members to represent the city on boards such as the Airport Advisory Board or the Housing Authority Board.  City Council wanted to appoint new representation on both those boards with new members since the update of council.  It was determined during today’s County Commissioner meeting that there are currently no vacancies on either board.  Noelle Hagan’s term on the Housing Authority is effective till December 31^st, 2009, and David White’s term on the Airport Advisory board is for 3 years, beginning in January of ‘08.  No action was taken during today’s meeting.

Popular Ridgway teacher, Mr. George Gardner has passed away as the result of a rock climbing accident.  Students, parents, and people of the community can visit the Ridgway Secondary School today and tomorrow from 9am-2.  Counselors will be available.  Anyone with questions can call the school at 626-5788.  Gardner was a climbing guide and was climbing alone in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming when he fell.  He was a guide for 28 years.

Terri Ross found the strength to walk more than a mile to get help after an accident Saturday Night.  NBC 11 Newsreports that he was off-roading in Whitewater, off of Reeder Mesa Road when his jeep rolled off the top of a hill.  He walked more than a mile to the nearest home to call 911.  Ross suffered major facial injuries and was rushed to the hospital.  His current condition is unknown.
Source: NBC 11 News

As part of an on-going major sewer line improvement project, the City of Montrose will be boring under Main Street at the Park Avenue intersection.  This work is expected to impact traffic flow through the intersection for three weeks, starting today.  The first week of boring will require lane shifts for motorists traveling on Park Avenue.  Park Avenue between Main Street and North First Street will be closed during the final two weeks of the work.  During this stage, traffic will be detoured around the work area via Uncompahgre Avenue and North First Street.  Businesses in the area will remain open and adequate parking will be maintained on Main Street and North First Street. Motorists and pedestrians alike are urged to exercise caution when in the vicinity of the work area. For further information about this project, call 497-8596.
Source: Press Release

High gas prices aren’t stopping people from traveling to Telluride.  The Daily Planet reports that local events, such as the Bluegrass festival and several bike tours, aren’t slowing down.  June saw a 12% increase in hotel room bookings.  July’s been down, but August should boom again with the Telluride Film Festival.  So far, there are 1,500 more room bookings than last year for the event. 
Source: The Telluride Daily Planet

Be sure to check out Montrose County Fair’s Ag Appreciation Day this Wednesday from 5-7pm.  While eating your free hamburger or hotdog, you can watch the awards ceremony honoring the Farmer and Rancher of the year.  The Kiddie Tractor Pull will begin at 5:30.  For more information call 249-5000.

San Juan, Hinsdale, Ouray, and San Miguel Counties want the state to pass the license and insurance laws they have passed regarding ATV riding.  NBC 11 News reports that the law under those counties are stricter, compared to the state law that allows ATV riders as young as 10, with no license or insurance requirement.
Source: NBC 11 News

The 36^thAnnual Top O’ The Rockies Rally takes place this week in Paonia.  The rally is hosted by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Colorado, and is open to all types of motorcycles.  The Delta County Independentreports that camping is available at Paonia Town Park.  The public, even without bikes, can enjoy activities beginning this Wednesday through Sunday. 
Source: The Delta County Independent

Calling all Barack Obama fans…there will be a Barack Obama for President meeting tomorrow at the Montrose Regional Library.  The meeting will be held at 6:45 in the conference room.  Anyone interested can attend.
Source: PSA

The City of Montrose will be holding an Open House Thursday July 31^st, for the preliminary design of road improvements for 6700 Road and East Oak Grove Road. The event will run from 6:00-8:00 p.m., at the Montrose Pavilion. Phasing and timing for construction of the improvements is yet to be determined. Residents who attend the meeting will have opportunity to view preliminary design information. Project staff from the City of Montrose and Calibre Engineering will be available to answer questions.
Source: Press Release

As part of an on-going major sewer line improvement project, the City of Montrose will be boring under Main Street at the Park Avenue intersection.  This work is expected to impact traffic flow through the intersection for three weeks, starting on Monday, July 21.  The first week of boring will require lane shifts for motorists traveling on Park Avenue.  Park Avenue between Main Street and North First Street will be closed during the final two weeks of the work.  During this stage, traffic will be detoured around the work area via Uncompahgre Avenue and North First Street.  Businesses in the area will remain open and adequate parking will be maintained on Main Street and North First Street. For further information about this project, please contact John Harris, project manager, at 497-8596.
Source: Press Release

In April as part of the process of enhancing the Master Plan update, Montrose County Planning Commission and Land Use staff solicited statements of qualification from potential consultants specializing in Master Plan development. Eighteen statements of qualifications were received by the Montrose County Land Use department. After the review and discussion of the candidate proposals the PC and Land Use staff narrowed the group to two consultants: Stantec Consulting, from Denver and Winston Associates, from Boulder.  Each candidate is requested to make a formal presentation of his or her proposal. Winston Associates will present on Thursday, July 24 and Stantec will present on Thursday, July 31^st during a special work session.
Source: Press Release

Nita Smith has not renewed her operating license after pleading guilty to animal cruelty last week.  According to the Daily Press, Smith, owner of Colorado Kennels out of Olathe failed an inspection in November.  The inspection found fecal matter, rats, and rodents in the facilities, and a dead puppy on the premises.  Leading the way to shut the kennel down was Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter, based in Paonia.
Source: Montrose Daily Press

Three Habitat for Humanity homes will be built this summer in Norwood.  The Norwood Post reports that the town board unanimously approved the final plat, which will include 6 homes.  The homes will be built on Pine Street between Naturita and San Miguel Streets.  The last 3 homes will be built next summer.  Each adult in the low-income approved families must put in 200 hours of labor. 
Source: Norwood Post

DMEA members should receive a coupon in their mail for six free Compact Fluorescent Lamps also known as CFL’s by August 11, 2008.   DMEA asks that members receiving coupons and free CFLs take the ENERGY STAR “Change a Light” pledge.  A link to the ENERGY STAR website is available on DMEA’s on home page, dmea.com, as is other CFL promotion and educational material.  Residential members who do not receive a coupon for six free CFL’s in the mail by August 11, 2008 should call DMEA at 249-4572 or 874-8081.
Source: Press Relase

Executive Director of the Montrose Economic Development Corporation or MEDC, Sandy Head presented their mid-year update during last night’s city council meeting.  MEDC conducted a “return on investment“ survey with 23 local companies.  18 responded.  When broken down into industry, MEDC found that in the year 2007, the total number of jobs in Montrose County was just over 15,000.  The largest industry in the county in 2007 was construction with 309 establishments, however government-type positions created the most jobs overall.
AUDIO LISTEN To Sandy Head Talk About The 18 Companies

The City of Delta denied Al Gold’s request for a zoning change for a migrant housing project.  According to the Delta County Independent, Gold, the executive director of the Colorado Rural Housing Development Corporation or CRHDC, along with several members of the community agree that there is a need for agricultural worker housing.  Housing that is specifically designed for people who earn a third of their income from agriculture.  They are determined to pick another location in the Delta area that will serve the multi-unit complex. 
Source: Delta County Independent

City of Montrose Municipal Services Director Jim Hougnon told city council last night that the curbside recycling program is ahead of schedule.  Three new jobs have been created because of this program.  Anyone who wants to participate can.  The totes will belong to the residence, like the trash containers do.  Hougnon says the program should be fully operational by next spring.

Daniel Tucker of Norwood has withdrawn his application to annex the 50 acres he wanted to use to develop the Homestead East and West subdivision.  According to the Norwood Post, the town originally said they had the 175 water taps needed for the development, but then retracted saying they only had 83.  Tucker says he’s withdrawing his application due to the town’s inability to service its Master Plan.
Source: The Norwood Post

The six finalists for the Orchard City town administrator position have been publicized.  The Delta County Independent lists David Derragon, Jeanne Durr, Mary Alice Page-Allen, Rodney Proffitt, David Valey, and Pamela Woods as the finalists.  A community reception is to be held Thursday July 24^th from 5-6:30 and then interviews are underway July 25^th. 
Source: Delta County Independent

The Deltarado Days are full of events, but if you’re a DHS grad, then throw in two extra events just for you!  The Delta County Independent reports that alumni are invited to tour the old high school, home of the new Delta County Center for the Performing Arts.  Tours begin at 10am Saturday.   Then, the class of ‘78 in collaboration with the DHS Alumni Association, invite all alumni to a “private party” with concert at the Lions Club Pavilion.  The concert is $5 dollars per person and starts at 8:30pm.  For more information call Dwain Bush at 209-1530 or visit deltahighschoolpanthers.org.
Source: Delta County Independent

A skate ramp for the town of Norwood may not have an official park to go with it, but the ramp itself is to be set up soon.  As stated in the Norwood Post, a ramp has been offered to the town by John Fahnestock.  The 12 x 26 foot ramp includes a tent and the materials to build it.  Volunteers are being sought to help construct the ramp. 
Source: The Norwood Post

As part of the Montrose County 125^th Anniversary celebration, check out the Colorado Symphony Orchestra tonight at the Montrose Pavilion.  Tickets range from $20- $50 dollars.  The Orchestra is performing a free show Saturday at 9:30am, also at the pavilion.  For more details on the county’s 125^th Anniversary, visit the Montrose county website. 
Source: Montrose County

FOR SALE: REGISTERED QUARTER HORSES OR TRADE FOR BLACK COWS.

CALL PATTY @ 874-7651

FOR SALE: HORIZON ELIPTICAL MACHINE #635E  $400.00

LITTLE GIANT LADDER  $300.00

CALL 874-4092

LOOKING FOR: 22 LONG RIFLE AMMO & SHOTGUN PRIMERS.

CALL JERRY @ 252-0848.

LOOKING FOR STATIONARY BIKE.

CALL DONNA @ 856-3727

FOR SALE: JEEP WAGONEER PARTS & EARLT 60′S FORD TRUCK FRONT END PARTS.

CALL MIKE @ 626-5047.

LOOKING FOR: OLD FASHIONED BICYCLE. NO SPEEDS OR MAYBE A 3-SPEED. MENS OR LADIES.

CALL NADINE @  249-2033.

FOR SALE: 16 CU FT CHEST DEEP FREEZE. $100.00

CALL LAWRENCE @ 216-8878.

FOR SALE: SIMPLE MNT BIKE $30.00

CALL RAY @  323-0305

The area north and west of Delta along Highway 50 from Westwinds Subdivision to Mesa Point on the edge of Grand Mesa was out of power for just over an hour this afternoon.  DMEA reports that a fuse was blown.  Around 70 customers were affected.
Source: DMEA

Montrose County is celebrating 125 years in Naturita this evening.  Commissioner Allan Belt will introduce Marie Templeton of the Rimrocker Historic Society.  She is speaking at the Naturita Community Center at 6 o’clock.  Light snacks and music will be provided.  For a complete list of the 125^th Anniversary events, visit the county’s website.
Source:  Montrose County

The four suspects connected to a credit card and identity theft on the Grand Mesa, which occurred in February have all been located. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office asked the public and the media back in March to help identify the thieves through security camera images from various businesses in Grand Junction. By April 1^st the public had identified all four suspects as: Laurie Schuck, Kimberly Banniser, Colin Lever, and Sean Schuck all of California.  The Mesa County Sheriff’s would like to thank the public for assisting in identifying the suspects.  Most were connected to other crimes in California. 
Source: Press Release

Colorado’s first women’s only bike ride is set for Sunday August 17^th.  The Venus De Miles was designed to bring female cyclists of all abilities together each year to celebrate women and community.  This is a great way for women, new and old to cycling, to come together and enjoy a summer day of “spinning” in scenic Colorado.   Two routes are being offered throughout Boulder County.  For a course map, additional information and registration log on to venusdemiles.com
Source: Press Release

Division of Wildlife officials have killed two mountain lions this week that strayed into Durango city limits. On Saturday, wildlife officials euthanized a mountain lion found eating a cat behind a shed in a family’s yard.   Around 10 a.m. Wednesday, Chris Brinkley reported a mountain lion to wildlife officials behind his home. That animal also was killed.  Wildlife officials said both were young female lions.  Earlier Wednesday, wildlife officials killed a lion in Cortez that jumped on a lawnmower as a 14-year-old boy was cutting the lawn.
Source: DOW Press Release

According to a new government survey released today, Colorado is the least obese state in the country.  KJCT reports that Dr. William Dietz with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Colorado is a state with a reputation for exercise, lots of hiking and biking trails, and an elevation that causes the body to labor more.
Source: KJCT/AP

If an emergency were to happen in Montrose County, the current meeting place for all emergency personnel is the city hall annex.  According to County Grant Writer Robyn Funk, that location is too small; so the county has submitted a grant for the renovation of a storage building on Montrose County Fairgrounds.  If the grant doesn’t pass, the county commissioners plan to find funding elsewhere to move the emergency meeting location to that building.

Power was out in parts of southern Montrose yesterday afternoon as a tree limb fell onto a powerline on Mesa Avenue between S. 2^nd and S 3^rd Street.  Spokeswoman for the hospital Leann Tobin said the power outage also affected the San Juan Cancer Center.  DMEA reported that over 150 customers overall were affected. 
AUDIO  LISTEN To Leann Tobin Speak Of The Power Outage 

The Cobble Creek “Ladybug Invitational” will be held this Saturday at Cobble Creek Golf Course in Montrose.  The cost is $70 dollars per person, and must be paid by Friday.  Proceeds support the MHS ladies golf team.  Sign up at the pro-shop at the course.
Source: PSA

Twelve vehicles received flat tires yesterday after a semi truck lost part of its load on I-70.  NBC 11 News reports that the semi lost thousands of nails across 6 miles of the highway, resulting 6 hours of cleanup and a traffic ticket for the semi truck driver. 
Source: NBC 11 News

Michelle Obama was in Denver yesterday to raise money and campaign for her husband, Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.  KJCT says that she spoke before a crowd of about 150 that paid from $1,000 to $10,000 apiece at a private fundraising dinner at a downtown Denver hotel.
Source: KJCT

Music filled the Montrose Regional Airport Terminal yesterday as locals learned the history of Western Slope Aviation.  Zebulon Miracle, Curator of the Museum of Western Colorado presented “Aviation on the Western Slope.”  He pointed out that the first flight in Western Colorado took place in 1912, and that the first airport in Montrose was atop Sunset Mesa.  The current airport terminal was built in 1988.  125^th Celebration events are taking place through the week.  Check out the county’s website for more details.

The topic of prayer was debated again, during yesterday’s Grand Junction City Council Meeting.  According to KJCT, the Western Colorado Atheists asked the city to remove the prayer or just have a moment of silence.  City Manager Laurie Kadrich says that they’ll either remove it completely, modify it, or leave it as is.  The city councilors will meet with the city manager and attorney to discuss options.  They hope to have a proposal in 30 days.
Source: KJCT

The Ute Indian Museum Cultural Day takes place this Saturday from 9am-9pm.  This event includes outdoor vendors and free admission to the museum.  If you’re a member of the museum, cost to the Hawk Quest Program at 7pm is $5 dollars for adults and for those non-members, cost is $8 dollars.  The Ute Indian Museum is located on 17253 Chipeta Road, just south of Montrose.
Source: PSA

If you live in San Miguel County, be sure to fill out and return the survey regarding how the county should spend funds received from the 1.5 mill levy approved by voters in 2001.  The Daily Planet reports where money has been spent so far, including the acquisition of the Valley Floor.  San Miguel County Open Space and Recreation Coordinator Linda Luther-Broderick says the surveys will assist the county in prioritizing how the money gets spent.
Source: Telluride Daily Planet

Today is the kickoff for the 73^rd Annual Deltarado Days in Delta.  The festivities heat up with the farmer-rancher appreciation luncheon at the Delta Sales Yard at 700 W. 5^th Street.  According to the Delta County Independent, the lunch is free and served from 11-1 today.  The Delta Altrusa Club is hosting their dinner tonight from 5-7 at Cleland Park.  For more information call the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce at 874-8616 or visit deltacolorado.org.
Source: Delta County Independent

The Town of Norwood is asking residents to please use their water conservatively!  According to the Norwood Post, 400,000 gallons of water was recently used in a single day, setting off low water alarms.  The very next day, an alarm sounded because of a leaky pipe.  Hours of repairs went by only to have the same pipe burst again.  This past weekend, the plant’s reservoir pump failed which caused a series of other problems.  The line was installed in 1977 on 45Y Road, between Highway 145 and the 43Y Road.  The pipe also burst this January.  Public Works director, Tim Lippert says that luckily this winter’s snowfall has supplied the town with extra water than normal.  
Source: The Norwood Post

Three dozen suspected drug traffickers and thieves, and more than $1 million worth of drugs, have been rounded up after a 15-month investigation in Pueblo.  As reported by KJCT, police and prosecutors revealed the seizures yesterday.  “Operation Family Tradition” focused on methamphetamine and cocaine traffickers.
Source: KJCT