Remember the woman who threatened the African Grocery owner with a gun and demanded money? Twenty year old Alexis Jo Barton will do three years for the crime. By law, Barton could have been sentenced to anywhere from four the 16 years, but the judge cited her lack of criminal history and her age as mitigating factors for giving her three years in prison. There were three others involved in that robbery. Dalton Roseberry drove the getaway car, and got 90 days and four years intensive supervised probation. Siblings 21 year old Brittany Shea Shurden and 19 year old Joshua Neal Shurden are both from Fort Morgan and will be in court for hearings on November 10. They're working on plea deals that could put them in prison for six years and then on probation for five years.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Monday Is Deadline To Register
The last day to register to vote for the November 1, 2011 Coordinated Election is October 3, 2011.
The 2011 Election will be a mail ballot election. Ballots will be mailed between October 11 – 14th. If you have not received your ballot during the week of October 19th, please contact the Election Office at 542- 3521. The cost to return the ballots this year will be 44 cents.
Ballots will be mailed to active voters only. If you are not sure of your voter status and need to verify, check the Secretary of State website
at www.govotecolorado.com or call the Election Office at 542-3521. If you change your status on-line or in person prior to October 25th, a mail ballot will be sent. The last day to apply for a mail-in ballot for the
Coordinated Election if the ballot is picked up in person is prior to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 28, 2011.
Visit our website at www.co.morgan.co.us for sample ballots and additional information.
The 2011 Election will be a mail ballot election. Ballots will be mailed between October 11 – 14th. If you have not received your ballot during the week of October 19th, please contact the Election Office at 542- 3521. The cost to return the ballots this year will be 44 cents.
Ballots will be mailed to active voters only. If you are not sure of your voter status and need to verify, check the Secretary of State website
at www.govotecolorado.com or call the Election Office at 542-3521. If you change your status on-line or in person prior to October 25th, a mail ballot will be sent. The last day to apply for a mail-in ballot for the
Coordinated Election if the ballot is picked up in person is prior to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 28, 2011.
Visit our website at www.co.morgan.co.us for sample ballots and additional information.
Listeria Outbreak Expected To Grow Worse Over Next Month
(Granada, CO) -- A deadly listeria outbreak linked to tainted cantaloupes from southern Colorado is expected to worsen in the coming weeks. The FDA expects additional cases to be confirmed as more people show symptoms of the infection. It can take as long as two months for a person contaminated with listeria to begin to show signs of illness. The outbreak has already killed 13 people and sickened more than 70 across 18 states since late July. The CDC calls it the deadliest food borne outbreak in the U.S. in more than a decade.
Arkansas Sees First Listeriosis Case Connected to Nationwide Cantaloupe Crisis
(Undated) -- The Arkansas Health Department says it has a case of listeriosis that's connected to the multi-state outbreak from bad cantaloupes. This is the first case reported in Arkansas linked to the national problem that's tied to cantaloupes from Jensen Farms in Colorado. Listeriosis is a serious infection and usually causes fever and muscle aches. So far, the outbreak has affected 72 people in 18 states and 13 deaths have been reported.
Lottery Jackpot Still Unclaimed On Winning Denver Ticket
(Denver, CO) -- A three-point-seven-million-dollar lottery jackpot is still unclaimed on a winning ticket sold in Denver. The ticket was purchased at a 7-Eleven convenience store on East Mississippi Avenue, and matched all six numbers in Saturday's drawing. The winning numbers are 5-6-12-25-27-37.
Larimer County Residents Cited For Homemade Speed Bumps
(Larimer County, CO) -- Some Larimer County homeowners are in hot water after they tried to slow down drivers on their road with homemade speed bumps. The homeowners were cited after they built bumps from dirt along a road north of Fort Collins they've helped maintain for years. Officials are concerned the bumps may cause crashes, but resident Al Scott says they won't cause accidents if drivers are doing a reasonable speed.
Lakewood Man Allegedly Misses Denver Court Date While Robbing Pharmacy
(Denver, CO) -- Police say they arrested a 41-year-old Lakewood man because he missed a court date in Denver while robbing a pharmacy in Boulder. Jonathan Edward Fitzpatrick was arrested Saturday on a Denver warrant. He reportedly failed to appear in court Friday on an April theft-of-drugs charge.
Greeley Man Charged With Felony Sexual Assault On Son's Friend
(Greeley, CO) -- A Greeley man is facing a felony charge after an alleged sexual assault on his son's 16-year-old friend. Police say Roy Villarreal had offered to pay the boy to rub his feet when the incident became sexual. The boy reportedly told Villarreal "no" several times.
Marijuana measure in Colorado survives legal challenges
DENVER (AP) — A proposed ballot measure to legalize marijuana for recreational use in Colorado has survived two legal challenges.
The Colorado Supreme Court this week rejected two challenges to the measure that would ask voters whether marijuana in small amounts should be legal for people over 21. Sponsors of the marijuana measure are gathering signatures to place the question on 2012 ballots.
Anti-tax advocate Douglas Bruce challenged the ballot language. He says the measure should be labeled a tax increase. Pot activists say that while the marijuana measure would allow lawmakers to tax pot, the measure itself is not a tax question.
Separately, a marijuana activist who argued the measure was improperly worded brought a challenge to the state's highest court.
Both challenges were dismissed without comment.
The Colorado Supreme Court this week rejected two challenges to the measure that would ask voters whether marijuana in small amounts should be legal for people over 21. Sponsors of the marijuana measure are gathering signatures to place the question on 2012 ballots.
Anti-tax advocate Douglas Bruce challenged the ballot language. He says the measure should be labeled a tax increase. Pot activists say that while the marijuana measure would allow lawmakers to tax pot, the measure itself is not a tax question.
Separately, a marijuana activist who argued the measure was improperly worded brought a challenge to the state's highest court.
Both challenges were dismissed without comment.
Partisan deadlock stalls Colorado health effort
DENVER (AP) - Colorado will miss a Friday deadline to apply for $22 million in federal funds to set up an insurance marketplace because Republicans and Democrats can't agree on how to apply for the money.
The Colorado Health Exchange is a virtual health insurance marketplace approved by lawmakers last term. Some Republicans opposed the idea because insurance exchanges are required under the new health care law, which some Republicans believe will be overturned.
The Denver Post reports (http://goo.gl/NeKR5) that a legislative panel charged with setting up Colorado's exchange is divided 5-5 over language in a grant application to the federal government for money to set up the exchange.
The deadlock means Colorado will miss a Friday deadline, though the newspaper reports that the state could wait until Dec. 30 to apply.
The Colorado Health Exchange is a virtual health insurance marketplace approved by lawmakers last term. Some Republicans opposed the idea because insurance exchanges are required under the new health care law, which some Republicans believe will be overturned.
The Denver Post reports (http://goo.gl/NeKR5) that a legislative panel charged with setting up Colorado's exchange is divided 5-5 over language in a grant application to the federal government for money to set up the exchange.
The deadlock means Colorado will miss a Friday deadline, though the newspaper reports that the state could wait until Dec. 30 to apply.
Sick leave initiative uses listeria example
DENVER (AP) — Backers of an initiative that would let private employees and city workers earn up to 72 hours of paid sick days a year are using the deadly listeria outbreak to promote their cause.
A mailer by Campaign for a Healthy Denver features a photo of cantaloupe next to a dish of pasta suggesting people can make food safer by making sure workers handling food are healthy.
According to The Denver Post opponents to the measure that will appear on Denver's Nov. 1 ballot say the mailing is in poor taste.
A mailer by Campaign for a Healthy Denver features a photo of cantaloupe next to a dish of pasta suggesting people can make food safer by making sure workers handling food are healthy.
According to The Denver Post opponents to the measure that will appear on Denver's Nov. 1 ballot say the mailing is in poor taste.
Fifth New Mexico death linked to tainted Colorado cantaloupes
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Department of Health Thursday confirmed a fifth death from the multi-state Listeriosis outbreak linked to Jensen Farms' Rocky Ford cantaloupes.
Eight others have been hospitalized with Listeria infection since mid-August.
New Mexico's fatal cases include a 93-year-old man from Bernalillo County, a 61-year-old female from Curry County, a 63-year-old man from Bernalillo County, a 77-year-old man from McKinley County and a 96-year-old female from Lea County. The other New Mexico cases have come from Bernalillo, Chaves, Otero, De Baca, and Valencia counties.
The cases range in age from the 43 to 96 and include seven men and six women.
The Health Department is advising that nobody eat Rocky Ford cantaloupes from Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo.
If the source is unknown, health officials say the cantaloupe should be put in a plastic bag and then in a sealed trash can.
Eight others have been hospitalized with Listeria infection since mid-August.
New Mexico's fatal cases include a 93-year-old man from Bernalillo County, a 61-year-old female from Curry County, a 63-year-old man from Bernalillo County, a 77-year-old man from McKinley County and a 96-year-old female from Lea County. The other New Mexico cases have come from Bernalillo, Chaves, Otero, De Baca, and Valencia counties.
The cases range in age from the 43 to 96 and include seven men and six women.
The Health Department is advising that nobody eat Rocky Ford cantaloupes from Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo.
If the source is unknown, health officials say the cantaloupe should be put in a plastic bag and then in a sealed trash can.
Aurora man killed after firing at officers
AURORA, Colo. (AP) — Aurora Police say they're looking for witnesses in an officer-involved shooting.
Authorities say 21-year-old Jerome Blackmon was shot and killed just before dawn Thursday after he ran toward officers with a gun and fired one shot. Multiple officers returned fire, killing Blackmon.
No officers were injured.
The Aurora Sentinel reports that police were responding to reports of a disturbance inside a vehicle in a residential neighborhood.
The shooting is under investigation.
Authorities say 21-year-old Jerome Blackmon was shot and killed just before dawn Thursday after he ran toward officers with a gun and fired one shot. Multiple officers returned fire, killing Blackmon.
No officers were injured.
The Aurora Sentinel reports that police were responding to reports of a disturbance inside a vehicle in a residential neighborhood.
The shooting is under investigation.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Bid Posting - Golf Course Irrigation Improvements
The City of Fort Morgan is accepting sealed bids until October 12th at 4:00 pm ...
... for irrigation improvements to the Fort Morgan Municipal Golf Course irrigation system. Follow the link to view the bid submission instructions.
Bid Submission Instructions
... for irrigation improvements to the Fort Morgan Municipal Golf Course irrigation system. Follow the link to view the bid submission instructions.
Bid Submission Instructions
Children's Programs Offered at the Recreation Center
Calling all children ages 5 and under - tell your parents about this!
"Pre-Cool" - Mondays from 10:15-11:15 am - $3 (interactive class featuring story time, art, and physical activities).
"Romp-n-Stomp" - Wednesdays from 9:15-10:15 am - $3 (physical fun class featuring games, songs, and sports activities).
"Fantastic Friday" - 2nd and 4th Friday of each month from 10:15-11:30 am - $4 (a themed class featuring social activities, crafts, and play time; followed by tasty treats).
"Pre-Cool" - Mondays from 10:15-11:15 am - $3 (interactive class featuring story time, art, and physical activities).
"Romp-n-Stomp" - Wednesdays from 9:15-10:15 am - $3 (physical fun class featuring games, songs, and sports activities).
"Fantastic Friday" - 2nd and 4th Friday of each month from 10:15-11:30 am - $4 (a themed class featuring social activities, crafts, and play time; followed by tasty treats).
COLORADO COMMUNITY COLLEGES RECEIVE $17.3 MILLION IN GRANT MONEY FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR.
Denver – On Monday, September, 26, 2011, the U.S. Department of Labor announced that Colorado’s community colleges will receive a $17.3 million grant to enhance current energy-related programs with the goal of training highly qualified workers for the businesses that are seeking a skilled workforce.
“This is very exciting for us,” said Dr. Nancy McCallin, president of the Colorado Community College System. “These new funds will allow us to invest in curricular redesign and the technology needed to bridge the gap between existing workforce skills and emerging energy industry needs. Community colleges have carefully consulted with energy companies throughout Colorado so that we can design training programs that will equip their future workforces with the skills needed for success in the industry. We look forward to partnering with industry on this program.”
The grant is a part of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Initiative, for which the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act included a total of $2 billion over a four-year period.
The grant will facilitate partnerships between energy-related businesses, community colleges, and local workforce centers to train unemployed and under-employed workers with the skills they need for placement in some of Colorado’s highest-paying and most in-demand jobs. In addition, workers who have been out of school for a while and who require remediation to succeed in college-level work will benefit from a redesign of remedial education using nationally recognized best practices to help students enter and succeed in the fast-growing energy industry in Colorado.
The energy certificate and degree programs will be designed with flexibility in mind so that students can access the programs from anywhere in the state, regardless of their location. The programs will be delivered via a combination of online learning, mobile training labs, and compressed weekend site training. A sophisticated career guidance system will be developed to help students move quickly from training into employment.
The colleges in the Colorado Community College System in the consortium are Arapahoe Community College, Colorado Northwestern Community College, Community College of Aurora, Community College of Denver, Front Range Community College, Lamar Community College, Morgan Community College, Northeastern Junior College, Otero Junior College, Pikes Peak Community College, Pueblo Community College, Red Rocks Community College and Trinidad State Junior College. Also participating are the two local district colleges: Aims Community College and Colorado Mountain College. The administration of the grant will be through the Community College of Denver.
The Colorado Community College System comprises the state's largest system of higher education, serving more than 162,000 students annually. CCCS oversees career and academic programs in the 13 state community colleges and career and technical programs in more than 160 school districts and seven other post-secondary institutions.
“This is very exciting for us,” said Dr. Nancy McCallin, president of the Colorado Community College System. “These new funds will allow us to invest in curricular redesign and the technology needed to bridge the gap between existing workforce skills and emerging energy industry needs. Community colleges have carefully consulted with energy companies throughout Colorado so that we can design training programs that will equip their future workforces with the skills needed for success in the industry. We look forward to partnering with industry on this program.”
The grant is a part of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Initiative, for which the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act included a total of $2 billion over a four-year period.
The grant will facilitate partnerships between energy-related businesses, community colleges, and local workforce centers to train unemployed and under-employed workers with the skills they need for placement in some of Colorado’s highest-paying and most in-demand jobs. In addition, workers who have been out of school for a while and who require remediation to succeed in college-level work will benefit from a redesign of remedial education using nationally recognized best practices to help students enter and succeed in the fast-growing energy industry in Colorado.
The energy certificate and degree programs will be designed with flexibility in mind so that students can access the programs from anywhere in the state, regardless of their location. The programs will be delivered via a combination of online learning, mobile training labs, and compressed weekend site training. A sophisticated career guidance system will be developed to help students move quickly from training into employment.
The colleges in the Colorado Community College System in the consortium are Arapahoe Community College, Colorado Northwestern Community College, Community College of Aurora, Community College of Denver, Front Range Community College, Lamar Community College, Morgan Community College, Northeastern Junior College, Otero Junior College, Pikes Peak Community College, Pueblo Community College, Red Rocks Community College and Trinidad State Junior College. Also participating are the two local district colleges: Aims Community College and Colorado Mountain College. The administration of the grant will be through the Community College of Denver.
The Colorado Community College System comprises the state's largest system of higher education, serving more than 162,000 students annually. CCCS oversees career and academic programs in the 13 state community colleges and career and technical programs in more than 160 school districts and seven other post-secondary institutions.
Special Logan Co Commissioner Meeting Today
Logan county commissioners will meet in special session today at 11 a.m. They'll hold a public hearing on and consider the new county commissioner district boundaries. The meeting will be in the courthouse meeting room.
Fees, 2 Ambulances Approved
Logan County Commissioners have decided that the fees for the Logan County Ambulance will be the same as the fees being paid for Morgan County Ambulance Service, which right now as an intergovernmental agreement to provide emergency ambulance service for Logan County. Commissions have approved two ambulances for the new Logan County Ambulance Service, but held off approving the other three.
Denver One Of Top Ten Cities For Finding Job
Denver is one of the Top 10 cities in America for finding a job. The CareerCast.com/JobSerf Index surveys 30 different areas across the U.S. for per capita job availability, and ranks Denver at number nine. Washington, DC, Boston and San Francisco are the top three.
Nationwide Sweep Includes 102 ICE Arrests In Colorado And Wyoming
(Denver, CO) -- Federal officials are saying 102 criminal aliens were arrested last week in Colorado and Wyoming by ICE authorities. The seven-day "Cross Check" operation was conducted in all 50 states and four U.S. territories. More than 29-hundred aliens were arrested nationwide.
Woman Accused Of Killing Infant Son Too Unstable For Court
(Boulder, CO) -- The woman accused of killing her six-month-old son last year is too unstable to appear in court. Stephanie Rochester was not present in Boulder District Court yesterday because the clinical director at the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo refused to release her. Rochester is accused of using blankets and a plastic bag to kill her son because she thought he had autism.
3 lions from Panama make new home in Colorado
KEENESBURG, Colo. (AP) — Three lions from Panama now have a new home at a wildlife sanctuary in northeastern Colorado.
The lions arrived in Denver on Tuesday night by cargo plane. They were held in concrete cages in Panama before the rescue.
The lions will reside at the Wild Animal Sanctuary, one of the largest free-roaming carnivore sanctuaries in the Western Hemisphere. It's home to about 300 animals.
The sanctuary says it costs $8,000 a year to care for just one lion.
It raises funds from visitor entrance fees, private donations and gift shop sales.
The lions arrived in Denver on Tuesday night by cargo plane. They were held in concrete cages in Panama before the rescue.
The lions will reside at the Wild Animal Sanctuary, one of the largest free-roaming carnivore sanctuaries in the Western Hemisphere. It's home to about 300 animals.
The sanctuary says it costs $8,000 a year to care for just one lion.
It raises funds from visitor entrance fees, private donations and gift shop sales.
Fewer cycling commuters in Boulder, Fort Collins
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Commuting by bicycle declined last year in Fort Collins and Boulder.
The American Community Survey by the U.S. Census said that people commuting on bikes in Fort Collins dropped from nearly 10 percent in 2009 to about 4.4 percent in 2010. Cycling commuters in Fort Collins dropped to 3,216 last year.
Boulder also saw a decline. In 2009, Boulder had the highest bicycle commuting numbers in the nation at 12.3. In 2010, Boulder dropped to 9.9 percent to No. 2 on the list behind Davis, Calif., which had 22.1 percent of its population biking to work.
The Coloradoan reports that the city's bicycle coordinator isn't sure why the survey showed a drop.
Dave "DK" Kemp told the newspaper that he'd anticipated an increase in the latest survey.
The American Community Survey by the U.S. Census said that people commuting on bikes in Fort Collins dropped from nearly 10 percent in 2009 to about 4.4 percent in 2010. Cycling commuters in Fort Collins dropped to 3,216 last year.
Boulder also saw a decline. In 2009, Boulder had the highest bicycle commuting numbers in the nation at 12.3. In 2010, Boulder dropped to 9.9 percent to No. 2 on the list behind Davis, Calif., which had 22.1 percent of its population biking to work.
The Coloradoan reports that the city's bicycle coordinator isn't sure why the survey showed a drop.
Dave "DK" Kemp told the newspaper that he'd anticipated an increase in the latest survey.
Cantaloupe illnesses and deaths expected to rise
WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health officials said Wednesday more illnesses and possibly more deaths may be linked to an outbreak of listeria in Colorado cantaloupe in coming weeks.
So far, the outbreak has caused at least 72 illnesses — including up to 16 deaths — in 18 states, making it the deadliest food outbreak in the United States in more than a decade.
The heads of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration say consumers who have cantaloupes produced by Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., should throw them out.
If they are not sure where the fruit is from, they shouldn't eat it.
Officials say illnesses are expected for weeks to come because the incubation period for listeria can be a month or even longer.
Listeria generally only sickens the elderly, pregnant women and others with compromised immune systems.
Cases have been reported in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
So far, the outbreak has caused at least 72 illnesses — including up to 16 deaths — in 18 states, making it the deadliest food outbreak in the United States in more than a decade.
The heads of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration say consumers who have cantaloupes produced by Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., should throw them out.
If they are not sure where the fruit is from, they shouldn't eat it.
Officials say illnesses are expected for weeks to come because the incubation period for listeria can be a month or even longer.
Listeria generally only sickens the elderly, pregnant women and others with compromised immune systems.
Cases have been reported in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Colorado boy pleads guilty to killing parents
BURLINGTON, Colo. (AP) — A 13-year-old Colorado boy has pleaded guilty to killing his parents under a plea deal that spared him a long prison term.
The teen entered his plea Wednesday in Burlington, a small farming community about 140 miles east of Denver.
He pleaded guilty to two counts of murder in juvenile court in the killings of his parents, Marilyn and Charles Long. He also pleaded guilty to attacking two of his younger siblings.
He was sentenced to seven years in youth corrections.
That angered some family members, but District Attorney Bob Watson says he settled on the deal in part because tests showed the boy is very immature.
He says the boy was playing with toy trucks and airplanes in the backyard minutes before the killings.
The teen entered his plea Wednesday in Burlington, a small farming community about 140 miles east of Denver.
He pleaded guilty to two counts of murder in juvenile court in the killings of his parents, Marilyn and Charles Long. He also pleaded guilty to attacking two of his younger siblings.
He was sentenced to seven years in youth corrections.
That angered some family members, but District Attorney Bob Watson says he settled on the deal in part because tests showed the boy is very immature.
He says the boy was playing with toy trucks and airplanes in the backyard minutes before the killings.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
FM Cemetery Rules Enforced
They're enforcing the rules at the Fort Morgan Cemetery to keep the place spruced up. The staff will start in mid-October by telling those who bring items like planters and such to the cemetery that they need to put those items on foundations that are attached to the grave marker. The foundation, the staff reminds, have to be at least two inches beyond the item sitting on it. Staff says it will remove any item that's in disrepair.
NJC Bldg Gets Landscape
Funds from owners of a pizza joint, a funeral home and an insurance company have improved the looks of some places at Northeastern Junior College. John Peterson of Pizza Hut, the Dave and Vicki Tennant Family of Tennant Funeral Home and Crematory and Rick and Mikki Jackson of Jackson Insurance Company all combined funds to cover the costs of landscaping at Phillips-Whyman Hall, the busiest place on campus. The design and installation was by Kimberly Schiel Harford, landscape architect at Country Gardens Nursery. Her brother Jeff did the installation and their mom Cheryl oversaw the whole thing, and the Sterling FFA also helped.
Officer Sica Becomes Sergeant Sica
An officer became a sergeant on Monday, as Sterling Police Officer Warren Peter Sica took the oath. He's a five year veteran of the force after officer training, and a full life prior to joining the police department. Sica is the Sterling Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Coordinator.
Audit Says State Motorcycle Training Program Has Serious Management Problems
(Denver, CO) -- A state audit says a Colorado motorcycle safety training program has serious management problems. The report released yesterday recommends ditching the Motorcycle Operator Safety Training program. The audit said the program does not do a good job of making sure schools and instructors meet minimum qualifications.
Man Accidentally Shoots Brother In Fort Collins
(Fort Collins, CO) -- A man is in serious condition after he was reportedly shot accidentally by his brother. Fort Collins police said the unidentified victim was taken from the scene on Chase Drive yesterday afternoon to Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland. The investigation is in the early stages.
CU-Boulder Student Hit By Truck, Suffers Life-Threatening Injuries
(Boulder, CO) -- A University of Colorado student is in the hospital with life-threatening injuries after he was hit by a pickup truck on the Boulder campus. The victim was reportedly jaywalking across Regent Drive yesterday afternoon when he was struck by another CU student. Police said the driver was going slowly because the sun was impairing his view.
Bears Spotted In Rockrimmon
(Rockrimmon, CO) -- A rare sight in Rockrimmon yesterday when a mama bear and her cub are spotted in a tree near an elementary school. The bears didn't come in contact with any humans but people were warned. The bears were near Discovery Park and Rockrimmon Elementary.
Democratic Congressmen seek Colorado mail ballot review
DENVER (AP) — Two Democratic members of Congress are asking for a federal review of a decision by Colorado's top elections officer to challenge mailing early ballots to inactive voters.
The Denver Post reports that Reps. Robert A. Brady of Pennsylvania and Charles A. Gonzalez of Texas have asked the U.S. Department of Justice to review the actions of Republican Secretary of State Scott Gessler.
Gessler has sued Denver for seeking to automatically mail ballots to all eligible voters, even those who didn't vote last year. Gessler says only active voters should automatically get ballots in the mail.
The congressmen suggest Gessler's position could have a "discriminatory result."
Also Tuesday, Pueblo County's clerk told Gessler in a letter that he would go ahead and send ballots to all military voters.
The Denver Post reports that Reps. Robert A. Brady of Pennsylvania and Charles A. Gonzalez of Texas have asked the U.S. Department of Justice to review the actions of Republican Secretary of State Scott Gessler.
Gessler has sued Denver for seeking to automatically mail ballots to all eligible voters, even those who didn't vote last year. Gessler says only active voters should automatically get ballots in the mail.
The congressmen suggest Gessler's position could have a "discriminatory result."
Also Tuesday, Pueblo County's clerk told Gessler in a letter that he would go ahead and send ballots to all military voters.
Driver injures 4 at Colorado post office
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The post office is open again today, but was closed for a while yesterday.
Authorities say an 89-year-old driver who drove her Lincoln Continental into a Boulder County post office and injured four people mistook the gas pedal for the brake.
Police say Gloria Sawyer was trying to park Tuesday when she drove through a plate-glass window at the Valmont Station. Sawyer's car hit four postal customers in a crowded lobby before the car stopped just short of the counter. Two people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, and two others suffered minor injuries.
The Daily Camera reports that Sawyer was not injured but was visibly shaken and crying when she was helped from her car. She was ticketed for careless driving resulting in injury, and she will be asked to retake the driver's test.
Authorities say an 89-year-old driver who drove her Lincoln Continental into a Boulder County post office and injured four people mistook the gas pedal for the brake.
Police say Gloria Sawyer was trying to park Tuesday when she drove through a plate-glass window at the Valmont Station. Sawyer's car hit four postal customers in a crowded lobby before the car stopped just short of the counter. Two people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, and two others suffered minor injuries.
The Daily Camera reports that Sawyer was not injured but was visibly shaken and crying when she was helped from her car. She was ticketed for careless driving resulting in injury, and she will be asked to retake the driver's test.
Cantaloupe outbreak could be deadliest in a decade
WASHINGTON (AP) — As many as 14 people have died from possible listeria illnesses traced to Colorado cantaloupes — a death toll that would make the outbreak the deadliest in more than a decade.
The Centers for Disease Control said last week that 55 illnesses and eight deaths were linked to the outbreak. Since then, state and local health departments in Kansas, Nebraska, Texas and Wyoming have reported six additional deaths that may be linked to the tainted fruit.
Listeria is more deadly than more well-known pathogens like salmonella and E. coli, though those outbreaks generally cause more illnesses. Twenty-one people died in an outbreak of listeria poisoning in 1998 traced to contaminated hot dogs and possibly deli meats.
Jensen Farms of Holly, Colo., recalled cantaloupes earlier this month linked to the illnesses.
The Centers for Disease Control said last week that 55 illnesses and eight deaths were linked to the outbreak. Since then, state and local health departments in Kansas, Nebraska, Texas and Wyoming have reported six additional deaths that may be linked to the tainted fruit.
Listeria is more deadly than more well-known pathogens like salmonella and E. coli, though those outbreaks generally cause more illnesses. Twenty-one people died in an outbreak of listeria poisoning in 1998 traced to contaminated hot dogs and possibly deli meats.
Jensen Farms of Holly, Colo., recalled cantaloupes earlier this month linked to the illnesses.
Obama in Denver Talking Jobs
DENVER (AP) - President Barack Obama brought his jobs pitch to Colorado Tuesday, getting a warm but not boisterous reception in the city where he signed into law the sweeping stimulus law more than two years ago.
Standing outside a high school in southwest Denver, in a struggling neighborhood dogged by high unemployment, Obama promoted his $447 billion jobs bill and tailored his pitch to the state. Colorado's unemployment rate, at 8.5 percent, is slightly higher than it was in 2009 when the first stimulus package was signed.
Obama won cheers when he argued the money in the new measure would save teachers' jobs and put others back to work.
"Pass this jobs bill and right here in Colorado, thousands of construction workers will have a job," he said.
The president went on, "There's folks here in Colorado who are living paycheck to paycheck, week to week. They need action. They need it now."
As in other states, though, Colorado Democrats were enthusiastic but lacking the raucous tone of his appearances here in 2008, when Obama became the first Democrat since former President Bill Clinton to carry Colorado.
Democrats organizing the rally said 6,000 attended. However, the parking lot where Obama gave his speech was far from packed to capacity, and some students at the school were handing out stacks of free tickets to passers-by a few hours before the president arrived.
One of the Democrats at the speech, 54-year-old Dixi Gloystein of Denver, conceded that folks aren't as excited about the president anymore.
"It's four years later, and we're in recession here. So yes, it's ugly, it's negative," she said.
Another man at the speech, 47-year-old Mark Harrison of Denver, said he was excited about Obama's visit but understood the frustrations.
"I was very enthusiastic when he came to office four years ago. Now, I'm still hopeful. But I haven't seen all that I wanted to see from Obama," he said.
Obama's Denver visit was his last stop on a Western swing to raise money and talk up his jobs bill. The president was last in Colorado more than a year ago, at a private fundraiser for Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet.
Both parties have said Colorado is a must-win in the presidential contest next year. They're also in agreement in an unexpected way - both parties have said Obama will struggle to hang onto Colorado.
Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper attended the speech and said beforehand that the president has work to do here because of the lagging economy.
"He didn't cause (the recession), but he's getting blamed for it," Hickenlooper said.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.
Standing outside a high school in southwest Denver, in a struggling neighborhood dogged by high unemployment, Obama promoted his $447 billion jobs bill and tailored his pitch to the state. Colorado's unemployment rate, at 8.5 percent, is slightly higher than it was in 2009 when the first stimulus package was signed.
Obama won cheers when he argued the money in the new measure would save teachers' jobs and put others back to work.
"Pass this jobs bill and right here in Colorado, thousands of construction workers will have a job," he said.
The president went on, "There's folks here in Colorado who are living paycheck to paycheck, week to week. They need action. They need it now."
As in other states, though, Colorado Democrats were enthusiastic but lacking the raucous tone of his appearances here in 2008, when Obama became the first Democrat since former President Bill Clinton to carry Colorado.
Democrats organizing the rally said 6,000 attended. However, the parking lot where Obama gave his speech was far from packed to capacity, and some students at the school were handing out stacks of free tickets to passers-by a few hours before the president arrived.
One of the Democrats at the speech, 54-year-old Dixi Gloystein of Denver, conceded that folks aren't as excited about the president anymore.
"It's four years later, and we're in recession here. So yes, it's ugly, it's negative," she said.
Another man at the speech, 47-year-old Mark Harrison of Denver, said he was excited about Obama's visit but understood the frustrations.
"I was very enthusiastic when he came to office four years ago. Now, I'm still hopeful. But I haven't seen all that I wanted to see from Obama," he said.
Obama's Denver visit was his last stop on a Western swing to raise money and talk up his jobs bill. The president was last in Colorado more than a year ago, at a private fundraiser for Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet.
Both parties have said Colorado is a must-win in the presidential contest next year. They're also in agreement in an unexpected way - both parties have said Obama will struggle to hang onto Colorado.
Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper attended the speech and said beforehand that the president has work to do here because of the lagging economy.
"He didn't cause (the recession), but he's getting blamed for it," Hickenlooper said.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.
Gardner Back in the District Tomorrow
Colorado's 4th district freshman Congressman will be in the district tomorrow. He'll make three stops to hear what you have to say, and what you need from Washington DC. Here's the schedule:
8:00am – 9am Lincoln County Town Meeting
at Hugo Eastern Trails Depot Facility, 635 4th St.
10:30am – 11:30am Kit Carson County Town Meeting at Stratton Activities Center, 918 Colorado Avenue
3:00pm to 4:00pm Yuma County Town Meeting
at Yuma County Elections Center, 130 E. 3rd Street Wray
8:00am – 9am Lincoln County Town Meeting
at Hugo Eastern Trails Depot Facility, 635 4th St.
10:30am – 11:30am Kit Carson County Town Meeting at Stratton Activities Center, 918 Colorado Avenue
3:00pm to 4:00pm Yuma County Town Meeting
at Yuma County Elections Center, 130 E. 3rd Street Wray
Play It Safe
Join us tomorrow for an interactive presentation on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from consumer fraud. Anyone interested in learning more about protecting oneself from consumer fraud and financial abuse should attend this energetic, interactive, hour-long presentation. Presented by: AARP ElderWatch in conjunction with Morgan County TRIAD and the Fort Morgan Police Department.
The event is at the Founder's Room, Morgan Community College 920 Barlow Road, Fort Morgan and its at 5:30 p.m.
The event is at the Founder's Room, Morgan Community College 920 Barlow Road, Fort Morgan and its at 5:30 p.m.
Carol Gillham Wins Sterling Public Library Postcard Contest
In March Sterling Public Library invited anyone traveling to send us a postcard. We
asked that the community send their postcards through Labor Day. We are happy to
report that we received many postcards from all of you from great places around the
world. At the end of the period we drew one lucky winner from all the postcards. Our
winner was Carol Gillham. Carol received a new suitcase as the prize.
Thanks to all of you who sent postcards to the library. We enjoyed seeing where all of
you had ventured.
asked that the community send their postcards through Labor Day. We are happy to
report that we received many postcards from all of you from great places around the
world. At the end of the period we drew one lucky winner from all the postcards. Our
winner was Carol Gillham. Carol received a new suitcase as the prize.
Thanks to all of you who sent postcards to the library. We enjoyed seeing where all of
you had ventured.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Obama To Promote Jobs Bill In Denver
(Denver, CO) -- President Obama is on the road today to push his jobs bill. Obama will visit a high school in Denver to promote his call to create jobs by rebuilding crumbling schools, bridges, highways, rail systems and airports. In Northern California yesterday, Obama held a town hall-style meeting at the headquarters of LinkedIn. He said the American people cannot wait any longer for relief from stubborn unemployment.
CSP Looking for Witness
Colorado State Patrol is looking for a possible witness to an injury crash that happened on Highway 52 in Weld County on Saturday. CSP said the crash was a head-on between a GMC pickup and a Toyota car. Troopers said a black SUV swerved to miss hitting the Toyota and the Toyota then hit the GMC. CSP said the black SUV stopped, then left the scene before first responders got there. While the driver is not suspected of anything, CSP said they want to talk to him about what happened. If you are or know the driver, call CSP Trooper Dusty Kraft at 970-506-4999.
Four Hurt in Rollover on Sunday
One person was hurt seriously, three others also injured in a rollover crash on Highway 6, northeast of Brush on Sunday. Colorado State Patrol said two people were thrown out of the pickup truck that 24 year old Jonathan Atkins of Brush was driving Sunday morning. All those who were hurt were taken to Colorado Plains Medical Center for treatment. CSP said Atkins was heading west on Highway 6 about half a mile from the I-76 interchange and his truck went off the right side of the road, came back onto the road, and then rolled off to the right.
Lawmakers weigh Colo. online schools audit request
DENVER (AP) — Colorado lawmakers are discussing whether to proceed with an audit examining online K-12 schools after Democratic Senate President Brandon Shaffer expressed concern over student failure rates at the schools.
The Senate leader told lawmakers in a letter Monday that he wants an emergency audit completed before the Legislature meets in January and begins budget discussions. An audit typically takes about 9 months to complete.
The state's legislative committee planned to debate Shaffer's audit request Tuesday.
He says online schools have little oversight and that some maximize their enrollment rates to get more state funding but have little or no plan for retention or educational success.
Republicans on the committee have criticized Shaffer's request and accused him of political maneuvering because he's running for Congress.
The Senate leader told lawmakers in a letter Monday that he wants an emergency audit completed before the Legislature meets in January and begins budget discussions. An audit typically takes about 9 months to complete.
The state's legislative committee planned to debate Shaffer's audit request Tuesday.
He says online schools have little oversight and that some maximize their enrollment rates to get more state funding but have little or no plan for retention or educational success.
Republicans on the committee have criticized Shaffer's request and accused him of political maneuvering because he's running for Congress.
Colorado postal workers to join national rally
DENVER (AP) — Postal Service employees plan to rally in Colorado to warn about the impact of proposed cuts.
The Communications Workers of America Union's Denver chapter says the rally on Tuesday is part of a national effort seeking support for congressional action to shore up the struggling agency.
Union officials say cuts in service are not necessary and the Postal Service isn't broke.
They also say warnings of a possible taxpayer bailout are unfounded.
The Communications Workers of America Union's Denver chapter says the rally on Tuesday is part of a national effort seeking support for congressional action to shore up the struggling agency.
Union officials say cuts in service are not necessary and the Postal Service isn't broke.
They also say warnings of a possible taxpayer bailout are unfounded.
Audit: Colorado courts fail to protect wards of state
DENVER (AP) — An audit found that the Colorado's court system sometimes fails to ensure that wards of the state are protected from theft or that their court-appointed guardians and conservators get background checks.
The state audit presented to Colorado lawmakers Monday also found that the courts in some cases do not receive regular reports from guardians and conservators about people in their care. The audit found that in one case a court did not have contact with a guardian for 10 years and in other case a court did not know that a ward had died in 2003.
A ward is someone a court deems unable to take care of themselves.
Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Bender says he's concerned with the issues raised and fixing the problems is a priority.
The state audit presented to Colorado lawmakers Monday also found that the courts in some cases do not receive regular reports from guardians and conservators about people in their care. The audit found that in one case a court did not have contact with a guardian for 10 years and in other case a court did not know that a ward had died in 2003.
A ward is someone a court deems unable to take care of themselves.
Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Bender says he's concerned with the issues raised and fixing the problems is a priority.
Hundreds of snakes dead after reptile store fire
DENVER (AP) — A fire at an exotic reptile breeding business co-owned by former NFL linebacker Chad Brown has left hundreds of snakes dead.
Douglas County sheriff's officials say a deputy checking on a burglary alarm at Pro Exotics Reptiles in Littleton around 5:30 a.m. Monday spotted smoke and reported the fire.
Co-owner Robyn Mackland told The Denver Post the business had more than 2,000 non-venomous snakes. Mackland told the newspaper that a firefighter told him one "big snake" survived, but the others are likely a total loss.
The business is co-owned by Brown, who played for New England, Pittsburgh and Seattle in the NFL.
No injuries were reported. The building sustained significant fire, smoke and water damage.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Douglas County sheriff's officials say a deputy checking on a burglary alarm at Pro Exotics Reptiles in Littleton around 5:30 a.m. Monday spotted smoke and reported the fire.
Co-owner Robyn Mackland told The Denver Post the business had more than 2,000 non-venomous snakes. Mackland told the newspaper that a firefighter told him one "big snake" survived, but the others are likely a total loss.
The business is co-owned by Brown, who played for New England, Pittsburgh and Seattle in the NFL.
No injuries were reported. The building sustained significant fire, smoke and water damage.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Obama returns to Colorado with new stimulus pitch
DENVER (AP) — It's a different Colorado for President Barack Obama.
In early 2009, Obama chose Denver as his backdrop to sign the sweeping $787 billion stimulus bill into law, an ambitious plan that had the backing of both parties.
When he visits a southwest Denver high school Tuesday, Obama will be pitching another economic stimulus — this time to a skeptical state with unemployment around 8.5 percent. Republicans and even some Democrats say the president faces an uphill battle next year.
Obama planned to use his visit Tuesday to promote his $447 billion jobs bill that includes tax cuts for small business and permanent tax hikes for the rich.
In early 2009, Obama chose Denver as his backdrop to sign the sweeping $787 billion stimulus bill into law, an ambitious plan that had the backing of both parties.
When he visits a southwest Denver high school Tuesday, Obama will be pitching another economic stimulus — this time to a skeptical state with unemployment around 8.5 percent. Republicans and even some Democrats say the president faces an uphill battle next year.
Obama planned to use his visit Tuesday to promote his $447 billion jobs bill that includes tax cuts for small business and permanent tax hikes for the rich.
North Sterling State Park Closes to Boating
There'll be no more boating at North Sterling State parks as of September 30. David Piper, North Sterling State Park’s Manager said budget concerns are causing boating on the reservoir to end. He said fishing, bird and wildlife watching, and hunting will still be allowed, but the south campgrounds have closed for the season. For more information please call the park office at 970-522-3657.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.
'Jaws' Downs 38 Bratwurst To Win At Oktoberfest
(Denver, CO) -- A world champion competitive eater is the first winner at Denver Oktoberfest's Continental Sausage Eating Contest. Joey "Jaws" Chestnut ate 38 bratwurst in eight minutes during Saturday's competition. The contest reportedly had only one rule: "if you heave, you leave."
Colorado To Receive $8.3M For Substance-Abuse Programs
(Denver, CO) -- Colorado will be receiving eight-point-three-million dollars for substance abuse programs. The state Department of Human Services said yesterday that the federal money will be used for screening, prevention, intervention and referrals to treatment programs. Colorado's rates of marijuana and cocaine use, alcohol consumption and binge drinking are reportedly among the highest in America.
"National Day Of Remembrance" Held At Denver Justice Center
(Denver, CO) -- A "National Day of Remembrance" was held outside the Denver Justice Center yesterday. Family members of murdered victims were invited to come up to a podium with a photo of their loved ones and announce his or her name, the date of their birth, and the date of their death. Featured speakers included Colorado State Representative Rhonda Fields, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock and Denver District Attorney Mitch Morrissey.
Platte River Valley A Hotbed Of Medical Marijuana Growing
(Denver, CO) -- Denver's Platte River Valley is a hotbed for growing medical marijuana. "The Denver Post" reports 250 large medical-marijuana cultivation sites are located in the riverbank area between West Evans Avenue and I-70, more than any other location in Colorado. Statewide, there are just over eleven-hundred growing facilities.
Platte River Valley A Hotbed Of Medical Marijuana Growing
(Denver, CO) -- Denver's Platte River Valley is a hotbed for growing medical marijuana. "The Denver Post" reports 250 large medical-marijuana cultivation sites are located in the riverbank area between West Evans Avenue and I-70, more than any other location in Colorado. Statewide, there are just over eleven-hundred growing facilities.
Listeria Death Reported In Wyoming, Possible Link To Colorado Cantaloupes
(Cheyenne WY) -- Health officials in Wyoming are working to determine if the listeriosis death of a northeast Wyoming woman is linked to Colorado cantaloupes. The Wyoming Department of Health said the woman was an adult who fell into the at-risk category. The death could become the tenth nationwide linked to cantaloupes grown at Jensen Farms of Holly.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Gardner Back in the Area This Week
Congressman Cory Gardner will be back in the area this week. He's scheduled to make three stops this coming Thursday, September 29 to talk with you about your concerns and what Washington DC can do to help. His Lincoln County Town Meeting will be at 8 a.m. at Hugo Eastern Trails Depot Facility, 635 4th Street. At 10:30 a.m., the Kit Carson County Town Meeting will be at Stratton Activities Center, 918 Colorado Avenue. And then at 3 p.m., Gardner will be at the Yuma County Town Meeting at Yuma County Elections Center, 130 E. 3rd Street Wray.
Log Lane Village Marshal Due in Court Tomorrow
Log Lane Village Marshal, 33 year old Edwin "Izzy" Irizarry-Urrutia will be in court tomorrow, as he's facing rape charges. Fort Morgan Police said the victim is a woman that Irizarry-Urrutia met on September 15 through a friend, and that both women went to his house that day. He was arrested last Tuesday, and the town's deputy marshal, Morgan County Sheriff's Department and Fort Morgan Police are keeping order in the town of fewer than one thousand people. Sheriff' Jim Crone said Irizarry-Urrutia is being held in the Logan County Jail, as there are security concerns at the Morgan County Jail since inmates that Irizarry-Urrutia arrested are housed there and Crone said he didn't want any trouble between them.
Group Pushes for Vote on Tax
Citizens For Sterling is pushing for that Tourism and Beautification question that'll be on the ballot in November. The organization says the hotel tax would do good for Sterling. Members of Citizens for Sterling were out last week talking with community groups, saying that beautifying the city is like beautifying your business, only bigger. Alex Wright, with the group says people need to read the entire ballot question, because only reading part of it sounds like the city is increasing taxes on residents. It reads in part, "shall the city of Sterling taxes be increased $165,000 for the full fiscal year (2012)." He reminds that the only people paying the increased tax to get to the 165 thousand dollars would be hotel guests. And, Wright said the funds have to be used specifically for beautification projects.
Nobody Hurt When Theatre Ceiling Collapses
DENVER (AP) — No injuries were reported when a 20- by 15- foot portion of the Oriental Theater ceiling collapsed onto the stage moments after Cajun music fiddle player Doug Kershaw and his band finished playing a concert. The Denver Post reports Kershaw and his band had left stage and the audience was headed toward exits late Friday when the collapse happened. Theater booker Scott LaBarbera says about 3-inches of plaster and pieces of drywall fell onto the stage.
Denver Judge Could Get Case Dismissed
DENVER (AP) — A Denver County judge cited with breaking a city ordinance for leaving her granddaughter in a car while she shopped has a chance to have her case dismissed in six months. The Denver Post reports that Denver County Court Judge Mary Celeste and a special prosecutor have agreed to a deferred six-month prosecution. Authorities accused Celeste of leaving her 6-year-old granddaughter in a locked car in late July on a day with temperatures above 90 degrees. An attorney for Celeste previously said there was water in the car and a fan was running.
Man Arrested In Boulder Admits Exposing Himself To Many Women
(Boulder, CO) -- Boulder police are saying a 20-year-old man admitted he exposed himself to 60 or 70 women over the past few weeks. Alexander Roy Davison was arrested Saturday by undercover officers near Broadway and Mountain Laurel. Two women had recently reported that a man had exposed himself to them in north Boulder.
Twenty Board Members Of Colorado Symphony Orchestra Resign
(Denver, CO) -- The board of the Colorado Symphony is losing more than half its members. Twenty board members resigned Friday after a week of contentious negotiations with the Symphony's 79 full-time musicians. The players also agreed to an emergency nine-percent pay cut on the same day.
Biosolids Company Being Investigated In Listeria Outbreak
(Holly, CO) -- A Colorado biosolids company is being investigated in connection with the Listeria outbreak involving tainted cantaloupes. Parker Ag Services Vice President Mike Shearp says the government is concerned the treated human waste the company disposes of may have somehow infected the cantaloupes.
"I don't believe we have any of the sites that we've applied in recent History that would be near any of the fields."
The company says they did spray a field across from the Southern Colorado farm the tainted fruit came from several years ago. But they do not believe their operation has anything to do with the Listeria outbreak.
"I don't believe we have any of the sites that we've applied in recent History that would be near any of the fields."
The company says they did spray a field across from the Southern Colorado farm the tainted fruit came from several years ago. But they do not believe their operation has anything to do with the Listeria outbreak.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Four Run for Brush City Council4
Brush City Council has three seats up for grabs in this year's election, and there are four people in the running: in alphabetical order, Heath Michael Becker, Jeff Osuch, Victoria M. Quinlin's and Mark D. Smith. All four have all the paperwork done so they can run as write in candidates. Ward 2 is the only real contest, which is between Quinlin and Osuh. The Morgan County clerk's office says voters will have to write in the name of the candidate they choose by Election Day, November first. If you're voting, you have to be registered by October 3, and you can register at the clerk's office on Ensign Street in Fort Morgan, the Brush city clerk's office on Edison in Brush or online at sos.state.co.us
Annual Utility Week BBQ
Its time for the City of Fort Morgan Annual Utility Week BBQ, Wednesday, October 5, from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm. Come have lunch and register to win City utility bill gift certificates. The Q is at the Light and Power Building at 710 East Railroad Avenue.
Peetz Schools Proceeds with Improvements Project
You can't let a school building deteriorate because of the economy. That's what Peetz Plateau Schools Superintendent Ben Dutton said after the school board approved a plan for the building improvements projects. Two years ago, voters approved a mill levy override that will pay for the improvements of just over a million dollars. Dutton said the district would save more than 50 thousand dollars a year in energy costs. He said Honeywell Building Solutions, who won the contract for the work, will insulate everything that can be insulated, seal up what's not sealed up and basically tighten the building. Then, there'll be money spent to update the building's security and its all expected to be done before school starts in 2012.
Teen Who Grew Up In Colorado Advances On 'X Factor'
(Mead, CO) -- A 13-year-old girl who grew up in Colorado is advancing on "The X Factor." Rachel Crow will move on to the next round of auditions after impressing the judges during last night's show. Crow started classes at Mead Elementary when she was eight, and her family moved to Burbank, California, two years ago.
Parole Denied For Ex-Soldier Accused In Killing
(Fort Carson, CO) -- The former Fort Carson soldier allegedly involved in the killing of a fellow soldier was denied parole. The "Gazette" says Kenneth Eastridge will remain at Delta Correctional Center. He's accused of playing a part in the 2007 murder of Specialist Kevin Shields. The victim's mother made an impassioned plea to the parole board yesterday that Eastridge should continue serving his ten-year sentence for being an accessory to murder.
Ted Haggard And Wife To Appear On "Celebrity Wife Swap"
(Colorado Springs, CO) -- Ted and Gayle Haggard are going to be appearing on ABC's "Celebrity Wife Swap." Gayle Haggard will be swapping places with actor Gary Busey's girlfriend, Steffanie Sampson, for the reality TV show. "The Gazette" reports the show will be filmed today at the GLBT Pride Center in Colorado Springs. No word on when it will air.
Stolen police cruiser recovered, but rifle missing
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The Boulder County Sheriff's Office has recovered a stolen police cruiser. But a rifle, gun belt and bulletproof vest inside are still missing.
The Daily Camera reports that Westminster police on Thursday afternoon recovered the unmarked vehicle that was stolen from outside a detective's apartment overnight.
The black Ford Taurus was abandoned, and police have made no arrests in the case.
Westminster police said the deputy noticed his keys were missing when he woke up Thursday morning, and when he went outside, his vehicle was gone too. Authorities say the car contained an AR-15 rifle with three 30-round magazines and a "concealable ballistic vest."
The Daily Camera reports that Westminster police on Thursday afternoon recovered the unmarked vehicle that was stolen from outside a detective's apartment overnight.
The black Ford Taurus was abandoned, and police have made no arrests in the case.
Westminster police said the deputy noticed his keys were missing when he woke up Thursday morning, and when he went outside, his vehicle was gone too. Authorities say the car contained an AR-15 rifle with three 30-round magazines and a "concealable ballistic vest."
Lt. Gov. Garcia to attend White House announcement
DENVER (AP) — Colorado's lieutenant governor will be at the White House Friday when President Barack Obama discusses changes to the once-lauded No Child Left Behind law.
Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia is among the guests for the announcement. The Obama administration is offering states a way around provisions of the Bush-era education law that the administration says have become unintentional barriers to learning.
The administration says it is acting because Congress has been slow to address the issues by rewriting the law.
Last week, Colorado's Board of Education signaled it would join other states in seeking waivers from parts of the law. States that want waivers are still required to show they're enacting standards to prepare students for college and careers and making teachers and principals more accountable.
Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia is among the guests for the announcement. The Obama administration is offering states a way around provisions of the Bush-era education law that the administration says have become unintentional barriers to learning.
The administration says it is acting because Congress has been slow to address the issues by rewriting the law.
Last week, Colorado's Board of Education signaled it would join other states in seeking waivers from parts of the law. States that want waivers are still required to show they're enacting standards to prepare students for college and careers and making teachers and principals more accountable.
Former Justice Stevens comments on Davis execution
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens says the high court made the correct decision in not intervening in Wednesday night's execution of a man convicted of the 1989 killing an off-duty police officer in Georgia.
Speaking to a group of law students, faculty and judges at the University of Colorado at Boulder on Thursday, Stevens said, "I think the court had no option but to uphold the decision."
The Supreme Court decided not to intervene in the execution of Troy Davis, who was convicted in 1991 of killing officer Mark MacPhail in Savannah, Ga.
Davis was pronounced dead late Wednesday night after the Supreme Court rejected an 11th hour request for a stay. The high court did not comment on its order.
Speaking to a group of law students, faculty and judges at the University of Colorado at Boulder on Thursday, Stevens said, "I think the court had no option but to uphold the decision."
The Supreme Court decided not to intervene in the execution of Troy Davis, who was convicted in 1991 of killing officer Mark MacPhail in Savannah, Ga.
Davis was pronounced dead late Wednesday night after the Supreme Court rejected an 11th hour request for a stay. The high court did not comment on its order.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Morgan Co Finances in Good Shape
Morgan County Commissioners found out this week that the county was on some good financial footing back in 2010, and so they heard from representatives of RubinBrown about the county's finances. They said that the county's assets for 2010 were at 200 million dollars, with a drop in assets because of property depreciation. The company said most of the assets are invested in capital assets. They said that in the past several years, county revenue was greater than spending.
Area Jails Could Get Mental Health Caseworker
Jails in Logan, Morgan and other counties could be getting a full time mental health caseworker. That's after Logan County Sheriff Brett Powell asked county commissioners to approve a 240 thousand dollar grant to fund the position. The grant comes from the Department of Human Services. Several area counties, including Logan would host the grant and the money would go for Centennial Mental Health to provide the caseworker. Powell said that if the 10 month grant is successful, it could be renewed for five years.
Three CU Students Accused Of Shooting Officer With Airsoft Gun
(Boulder, CO) -- Three CU students are in hot water for apparently shooting a Boulder cop last weekend with an Airsoft gun. Police believe the small BB came from a third story window near 11th and Pleasant streets. They've arrested Adam Testa, John Devens the Second and Henry Smith for discharging a firearm. The officer wasn't hurt.
Police Seek Man Walking Dog Who Broke Into Pot Dispensary
(Boulder, CO) -- Police in Boulder are seeking a man who broke into a medical marijuana dispensary while walking his dog. The suspect was reportedly caught on a surveillance photo, forcing his way into Root Organic on Arapahoe Avenue with a leashed beagle August 28th at about 10:30 p.m. If you have any information, call CrimeStoppers at (800) 222-8477. A thousand-dollar reward is being offered.
Gessler sues Denver over mail ballot plan
DENVER (AP) — Secretary of State Scott Gessler is suing Denver's clerk and recorder to prevent the office from mailing ballots in November to voters listed as inactive.
Gessler says in the lawsuit filed Wednesday that Denver's election plan contradicts state law. But Denver Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson says she disagrees and that the city's plan seeks to make voting accessible to as many eligible voters as possible.
People who did not vote in the 2010 general election are considered inactive but still eligible to vote.
Pueblo Clerk and Recorder Gilbert Ortiz's election plan also includes sending ballots to voters listed as inactive. He says he is waiting for the lawsuit to be resolved before deciding whether to amend his plan.
An initiative to raise taxes for schools is the only statewide ballot issue in November.
Gessler says in the lawsuit filed Wednesday that Denver's election plan contradicts state law. But Denver Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson says she disagrees and that the city's plan seeks to make voting accessible to as many eligible voters as possible.
People who did not vote in the 2010 general election are considered inactive but still eligible to vote.
Pueblo Clerk and Recorder Gilbert Ortiz's election plan also includes sending ballots to voters listed as inactive. He says he is waiting for the lawsuit to be resolved before deciding whether to amend his plan.
An initiative to raise taxes for schools is the only statewide ballot issue in November.
Death toll in cantaloupe outbreak rises to 8
WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health officials say the death toll has risen to eight in an outbreak of listeria traced to Colorado cantaloupes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that a person in Maryland has died from eating the tainted produce. Four other deaths were reported in New Mexico, two in Colorado and one in Oklahoma.
The CDC said 55 people in 14 states have now been confirmed as sickened from eating the cantaloupes. On Monday, the CDC reported four deaths and 35 illnesses in 10 states.
The agency said illnesses in several other states potentially connected to the outbreak were under investigation by state and local health departments.
Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo. recalled its cantaloupes after the listeria outbreak was discovered.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that a person in Maryland has died from eating the tainted produce. Four other deaths were reported in New Mexico, two in Colorado and one in Oklahoma.
The CDC said 55 people in 14 states have now been confirmed as sickened from eating the cantaloupes. On Monday, the CDC reported four deaths and 35 illnesses in 10 states.
The agency said illnesses in several other states potentially connected to the outbreak were under investigation by state and local health departments.
Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo. recalled its cantaloupes after the listeria outbreak was discovered.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Floyd Anderson to Leave Mayor's Office Next Week
Log Lane Village's mayor has resigned Floyd Anderson announced a week ago that he would leave his job at the end of the month. Town officials said Anderson had family health issues to deal with. That was at last week's Log Lane Village Board of Trustees meeting. Trustee Paul Vowell could be appointed mayor, as he currently serves as the mayor pro tem. Town attorney Ginger Geissinger is looking at the how the mayor gets replaced after a partial term.
RE-1 Valley Board Works to Maintain Schools
Maintaining the properties for an entire school system can be a challenge, but the RE-1 Valley School district is trying to do just that, especially, says superintendent Betty Summers, since the school board promised the community it would do so, when the community approved the bond issue that paid for renovations in the district. Summers said while they are able to complete several tasks within the promised time frame, other needs are not finished, mostly because of funding. So the school board approved the changes to the 2011-2012 facility-equipment-maintenance cycle. A Great Outdoors Colorado grant submitted by the Tiger Cubs PTO helped to fund playground projects at Ayres and Campbell Elementary. One of the projects that's on going is the drainage and parking at Sterling Middle School.
Dog From Texas Found Two Years Later Outside Denver Home
(Denver, CO) -- A dog from El Paso, Texas will soon be making the 700-mile trip back home, after she was discovered in a Denver neighborhood. Annmarie Anderson found Leia tied up near her home this weekend, and noticed an El Paso phone number on the dog's rabies tags. Leia disappeared more than two years ago, and her owners were delighted to find her. They'll be picking her up Friday.
Aurora Water Wins Taste Test Again
(Aurora, CO) -- Aurora's water is again the best-tasting in the region. The annual taste test yesterday by the Rocky Mountain Section of the American Water Works Association proclaimed Aurora Water the winner over 13 other water utilities. Aurora Water has now taken the top spot twice in three years.
Colo. senators ask to talk on Baca mineral rights
DENVER (AP) — Colorado's U.S. senators are stepping into citizens groups' efforts to explore buying the mineral rights underneath the Baca National Wildlife Refuge so that it never gets drilled.
Sens. Mark Udall and Michael Bennet are asking to talk with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe about the possibilities for a buyout.
Lexam Exploration (USA) Inc. currently owns the mineral rights and has proposed drilling two exploratory wells on the refuge to explore for oil and gas. Udall and Bennet said in a letter Tuesday to Ashe that Lexam doesn't have any pending permits to drill yet.
Lexam has said it's open to selling its mineral rights for around $8.4 million. The federal government has said the fair market value is likely below that.
Sens. Mark Udall and Michael Bennet are asking to talk with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe about the possibilities for a buyout.
Lexam Exploration (USA) Inc. currently owns the mineral rights and has proposed drilling two exploratory wells on the refuge to explore for oil and gas. Udall and Bennet said in a letter Tuesday to Ashe that Lexam doesn't have any pending permits to drill yet.
Lexam has said it's open to selling its mineral rights for around $8.4 million. The federal government has said the fair market value is likely below that.
APNewsBreak: Investigation at Air Force Academy
DENVER (AP) — The Associated Press has learned the military is investigating whether two senior officials at the Air Force Academy provided misleading information about faculty credentials to an organization that accredits colleges and universities.
A document obtained by the AP says the Air Force inspector general ordered a formal investigation into a complaint that the academy's dean and vice dean of faculty gave incorrect information to the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The association reviews academics at more than 1,000 member colleges and universities.
The group says in a statement that it's aware of the investigation. A spokesman declined to elaborate.
Officials at the Pentagon and the academy declined to confirm or deny an investigation. The academy says the dean and vice dean have no comment.
A document obtained by the AP says the Air Force inspector general ordered a formal investigation into a complaint that the academy's dean and vice dean of faculty gave incorrect information to the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The association reviews academics at more than 1,000 member colleges and universities.
The group says in a statement that it's aware of the investigation. A spokesman declined to elaborate.
Officials at the Pentagon and the academy declined to confirm or deny an investigation. The academy says the dean and vice dean have no comment.
CO likely faces another half-billion deficit
DENVER (AP) — The governor's budget director says lawmakers will likely have to cut $400 million to $500 million next year as the state continues to try to dig out of the economic downturn.
Henry Sobanet told lawmakers Tuesday that they'll face another difficult budget cycle because the state's revenue is not keeping up with increased demand for services like health care, education and public safety. A separate report from legislative economists warned that "chances of a recession are rising" nationally as households and business continue to be unsure about the weak economy.
Sobanet's office estimates that Colorado's general fund revenue will grow by about $57.8 million in the current year. That would be a 0.8 percent increase from last year.
Colorado lawmakers adopted a budget this spring to close a shortfall that hovered near a half-billion.
Henry Sobanet told lawmakers Tuesday that they'll face another difficult budget cycle because the state's revenue is not keeping up with increased demand for services like health care, education and public safety. A separate report from legislative economists warned that "chances of a recession are rising" nationally as households and business continue to be unsure about the weak economy.
Sobanet's office estimates that Colorado's general fund revenue will grow by about $57.8 million in the current year. That would be a 0.8 percent increase from last year.
Colorado lawmakers adopted a budget this spring to close a shortfall that hovered near a half-billion.
Colo.: 2nd listeria death linked to cantaloupe
DENVER (AP) — Health officials say a second person has died in Colorado in an outbreak of listeria traced to Colorado cantaloupes.
Mark Salley of the Colorado Department of Public Health said Tuesday the state now is reporting 14 confirmed cases of listeria connected to the outbreak to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Colorado had previously reported 12 cases, including one death.
On Monday, the CDC said that 35 people in 10 states had been sickened in the outbreak so far.
The illnesses have been traced to fruit from Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo. Jensen Farms recalled its Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes last week
Symptoms of listeria include fever and muscle aches, often with other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Mark Salley of the Colorado Department of Public Health said Tuesday the state now is reporting 14 confirmed cases of listeria connected to the outbreak to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Colorado had previously reported 12 cases, including one death.
On Monday, the CDC said that 35 people in 10 states had been sickened in the outbreak so far.
The illnesses have been traced to fruit from Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo. Jensen Farms recalled its Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes last week
Symptoms of listeria include fever and muscle aches, often with other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Siblings planned life in Mexico after crime spree
WALSENBURG, Colo. (AP) — A Colorado detective says a sister and two brothers accused in a cross-country crime spree planned to flee to Mexico and obtain fraudulent documents.
Colorado Springs police Det. Larry Dyer testified Tuesday that one of the siblings — 21-year-old Ryan Edward Dougherty — said he hatched the plan after he was convicted in Florida of sending sexually explicit text messages to an 11-year-old girl.
Dyer says Dougherty came up with the idea the day he was sentenced to register as a sex offender.
The new details in the case emerged during a hearing in southern Colorado where the trio was captured last month after a widely publicized manhunt.
The siblings are accused of robbing a bank in Georgia and shooting at police officers in Florida and Colorado.
Colorado Springs police Det. Larry Dyer testified Tuesday that one of the siblings — 21-year-old Ryan Edward Dougherty — said he hatched the plan after he was convicted in Florida of sending sexually explicit text messages to an 11-year-old girl.
Dyer says Dougherty came up with the idea the day he was sentenced to register as a sex offender.
The new details in the case emerged during a hearing in southern Colorado where the trio was captured last month after a widely publicized manhunt.
The siblings are accused of robbing a bank in Georgia and shooting at police officers in Florida and Colorado.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Juvenile Escapee Now at Greeley
As we told you yesterday, a 17 year old male was recaptured after he fled on Friday as he was being processed at the Morgan County Jail. Sheriff Jim Crone said that since a juvenile cannot be processed in the jail, so the teen was being fingerprinted in the jail lobby. When deputies took the cuffs off, the teen mane a run for it. On Saturday, residents reported seeing the boy, Fort Morgan Police responded, found the boy, chased him and nabbed him. He now faces escape charges and is being held without bond at the Platte Valley Youth Services Center in Greeley. Sheriff Crone says his department will now review their procedures for processing juveniles.
Testing Going on for Potential Logan County EMTs
There are six job openings with the new ambulance service born of that intergovernmental agreement between Sterling and Logan County. There are 20 applicants. So the application process continued this past weekend, but before that, three of the new ambulances arrived here on Thursday. Sterling fire chief Kurt Vogel said the applicants completed written tests on Friday, and physical agility tests on Saturday for the applicants who passed Friday's written test. Then, if they made it through Saturday's tests, candidates were interviewed on Sunday. Until the Sterling-Logan County fire-based ambulance service is up and running, Morgan County is helping with calls.
Fire Victim Dragged To Safety By Teenager
(Lakewood, CO) -- A teenager is being credited with dragging a Lakewood fire victim to safety. Eighteen-year-old Michael Dillon saw the house fire on West Dartmouth Place early yesterday and rushed to help. When a man fell to the ground just outside the front door, Dillon pulled him away from the smoke and flames. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Tiffany Hartley Testifies At Border Security Hearing In South Texas
(Brownsville, TX) -- The widow of a man presumably shot to death last year by Mexican drug traffickers on a lake that straddles the Texas-Mexico border is calling for tighter border security. Tiffany Hartley spoke out yesterday at a congressional field hearing on border security in Brownsville. Hartley offered her testimony on the events of September 30th, 2010, when she says cartel gunmen opened fire on her and her husband David Hartley from a boat on Falcon Lake. She closed her testimony by urging lawmakers to provide additional resources to Texas authorities combating what they say is an influx of cartel activity. The hearing was Hartley's first public return to the Rio Grande Valley since the attack. She's currently living in Colorado.
Listeriosis Case Linked To Cantaloupe Confirmed In Montana
(Helena, MT) -- State health officials confirm a listeria case in Montana. They say a Yellowstone County man in his 70s was infected with the same strain of listeriosis linked to Colorado-grown cantaloupe that has killed two people and made nearly two-dozen others ill throughout the country. The state health department say the man has been treated and released. Officials say another suspected case of listeriosis in Gallatin County doesn't match the strain found in cantaloupe grown at Jensen Farms in Holly, Colorado. The department says no new cases have been reported in Montana and melons from other producers are safe to eat.
Denver man falls to death from balcony
DENVER (AP) — Authorities say a Denver man who fell to his death from an apartment building was intoxicated and was trying to climb into his own apartment after locking himself out.
KMGH-TV in Denver reports that 24-year-old Jeremy Shipley fell some 40 feet early Sunday. A police report says Shipley was trying to climb to his fourth-floor balcony because he locked himself out of his apartment.
Shipley fell while climbing, landing on the first-floor balcony of another residence. Witnesses called police, and Shipley was pronounced dead at Denver Health Medical Center. An autopsy was scheduled for today.
KMGH-TV in Denver reports that 24-year-old Jeremy Shipley fell some 40 feet early Sunday. A police report says Shipley was trying to climb to his fourth-floor balcony because he locked himself out of his apartment.
Shipley fell while climbing, landing on the first-floor balcony of another residence. Witnesses called police, and Shipley was pronounced dead at Denver Health Medical Center. An autopsy was scheduled for today.
CO Marine allegedly shot by fellow reservist dies
AURORA, Colo. (AP) — Aurora police say a Marine reservist who was shot during a gathering of fellow reservists has died of his injuries.
Police spokesman Robert Friel said Monday that 24-year-old Benton Brubacker died over the weekend. He was shot Thursday at a condo in the Denver suburb.
A fellow reservist, 25-year-old Barton Enoch of Lakewood, was arrested following the shooting. Police expect to turn over the case to prosecutors later this week so they can decide whether to file charges.
Investigators have said they were looking at whether alcohol may have contributed to the shooting.
Police spokesman Robert Friel said Monday that 24-year-old Benton Brubacker died over the weekend. He was shot Thursday at a condo in the Denver suburb.
A fellow reservist, 25-year-old Barton Enoch of Lakewood, was arrested following the shooting. Police expect to turn over the case to prosecutors later this week so they can decide whether to file charges.
Investigators have said they were looking at whether alcohol may have contributed to the shooting.
Panel backs new competitive CO legislative maps
DENVER (AP) — One-third of Colorado's Legislature will have races considered to be competitive under new legislative districts approved by a state panel.
The maps approved Monday would make 11 of the 35 seats in the Senate competitive and put 22 of the House's 65 seats up for grabs. Some members from both sides of the 11-member panel say that means either party has a chance to take control of a chamber.
Democrats currently have a five-seat advantage in the Senate, and Republicans hold a one-seat edge in the House.
The maps will be submitted for approval to the state Supreme Court by Oct. 7.
State legislative districts are redrawn every 10 years to account for population changes.
The maps approved Monday would make 11 of the 35 seats in the Senate competitive and put 22 of the House's 65 seats up for grabs. Some members from both sides of the 11-member panel say that means either party has a chance to take control of a chamber.
Democrats currently have a five-seat advantage in the Senate, and Republicans hold a one-seat edge in the House.
The maps will be submitted for approval to the state Supreme Court by Oct. 7.
State legislative districts are redrawn every 10 years to account for population changes.
CO elections chief: Don't send ballots to all
DENVER (AP) — Colorado's elections chief has threatened to sue Denver for automatically mailing ballots for an upcoming municipal election to inactive voters.
Republican Secretary of State Scott Gessler says that elections law prohibits the city from mailing ballots to voters who didn't vote last year and didn't respond to requests to activate their registrations.
Denver Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson says the city will proceed with its ballot plan to make it easier for eligible people to vote. In a statement she called it "a fundamental issue of fairness."
Gessler cites a state statute that reads: "the designated election official shall mail to each active registered elector." Johnson says elections officials can mail ballots to inactive voters, too.
Denver has about 236,000 active voters and about 55,000 inactive voters.
Republican Secretary of State Scott Gessler says that elections law prohibits the city from mailing ballots to voters who didn't vote last year and didn't respond to requests to activate their registrations.
Denver Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson says the city will proceed with its ballot plan to make it easier for eligible people to vote. In a statement she called it "a fundamental issue of fairness."
Gessler cites a state statute that reads: "the designated election official shall mail to each active registered elector." Johnson says elections officials can mail ballots to inactive voters, too.
Denver has about 236,000 active voters and about 55,000 inactive voters.
Killings down 30 percent in Colorado
DENVER (AP) — The number of murders counted by the FBI in Colorado totaled 120 last year, the lowest level the state has seen since 1969.
Figures released by the FBI Monday included the number of murder and non-negligent manslaughter cases reported to the federal agency by law enforcement in Colorado in 2010. The number of cases dropped 31 percent from 175 reported in 2009.
Violent crime overall was down 5 percent in Colorado last year and down 6 percent across the country. It's the fourth straight year-to-year decline nationwide.
Violent crimes are murders, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Denver had the largest year-to-year decline with 22 murders reported in 2010, down from 39 the year before. Colorado Springs saw the number of murders rise from 15 to 20 from 2009 to 2010.
Figures released by the FBI Monday included the number of murder and non-negligent manslaughter cases reported to the federal agency by law enforcement in Colorado in 2010. The number of cases dropped 31 percent from 175 reported in 2009.
Violent crime overall was down 5 percent in Colorado last year and down 6 percent across the country. It's the fourth straight year-to-year decline nationwide.
Violent crimes are murders, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Denver had the largest year-to-year decline with 22 murders reported in 2010, down from 39 the year before. Colorado Springs saw the number of murders rise from 15 to 20 from 2009 to 2010.
CDC reports 4 dead in cantaloupe listeria outbreak
WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health authorities are confirming that four people have died in an outbreak of listeria traced to Colorado cantaloupes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday one death occurred in Colorado, one in Oklahoma and two in New Mexico.
The death count could still rise to six or higher. Chad Smelser of the New Mexico Department of Heath said the CDC is in the process of confirming two additional deaths linked to the outbreak in that state.
The CDC said 35 people in 10 states have been sickened in the outbreak so far. The illnesses have been traced to fruit from Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo.
That company recalled its cantaloupes after the diseases were discovered.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday one death occurred in Colorado, one in Oklahoma and two in New Mexico.
The death count could still rise to six or higher. Chad Smelser of the New Mexico Department of Heath said the CDC is in the process of confirming two additional deaths linked to the outbreak in that state.
The CDC said 35 people in 10 states have been sickened in the outbreak so far. The illnesses have been traced to fruit from Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo.
That company recalled its cantaloupes after the diseases were discovered.
Colorado treasurer demands pension information
DENVER (AP) — Colorado Treasurer Walker Stapleton filed a lawsuit against the state's pension fund board in an effort to get financial information about workers' benefits.
The state Attorney General's office filed the lawsuit on Stapleton's behalf on Monday. Stapleton says the information he is seeking will help him to assess the health of the state pension's program.
Stapleton sits on the board that manages Colorado's $39 billion pension fund for state workers, known as the Public Employees Retirement Association. The group covers more than 450,000 state and local government workers.
Stapleton is seeking information about the top 20 percent of the pension's beneficiaries and their annual retirement benefit.
The pension board denied Stapleton's request in August, saying the information is confidential.
The state Attorney General's office filed the lawsuit on Stapleton's behalf on Monday. Stapleton says the information he is seeking will help him to assess the health of the state pension's program.
Stapleton sits on the board that manages Colorado's $39 billion pension fund for state workers, known as the Public Employees Retirement Association. The group covers more than 450,000 state and local government workers.
Stapleton is seeking information about the top 20 percent of the pension's beneficiaries and their annual retirement benefit.
The pension board denied Stapleton's request in August, saying the information is confidential.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Economy Tops Gardner Town Hall Topics
He wanted to hear from them, and they wanted to hear what he was doing for them. That's how it went when Congressman Cory Gardner came back to Northeastern Colorado for town hall meetings last week. One of the many meetings set for late last week was in Brush where about a dozen or so showed up at city council chambers to talk with Gardener. The one thing that Gardner said came up time after time, was the economy, and how constituents wanted Washington to fix the problems. He told them that congress is obliged to fix the downed economy. Gardner said the economy will grow as small businesses grow, and so he and his colleagues are working on several initiatives to get more people working in small business to get the economy moving. Congressman Gardner will hold three more town hall meetings on September 29.
PLR Board Considers Changes in Admission to Rec Center
If you're not participating at the Sterling Recreation Center, as in, if you're only watching someone swim, you pay a dollar to get in. Some though, as the Parks, Library and Recreation board found out at its meeting recently, take advantage when the lifeguards change, and dive into the pool. That's why the board is considering changing the rec center's admittance fee structure, so that everybody pays full price to get into the pool. There would be a different price structure each for children, adults and seniors.
Man Allegedly Steals Woman's Phone, Then Sends Facebook Friend Request
(Greeley, CO) -- A Colorado man is facing charges for allegedly stealing a woman's cell phone, then sending her a friend request on Facebook. Juan Gonzales Jr. was arrested on suspicion of burglary and theft. Greeley police said they located Gonzales last week by tracking signals from the stolen phone and text messages to one of the victim's friends.
Colorado plans to allow wild turkey hunting
DENVER (AP) — Colorado's efforts in the 1980s to reintroduce the wild turkey have been successful. Colorado wildlife officials are now developing a plan to issue unlimited over-the-counter hunting licenses to help rid areas of so-called "conflict turkeys."
The Denver Post reports that the turkeys now number 35,000 and live in 53 of Colorado's 64 counties. In some cases, residents are reporting flocks of 200 or more descending on farms and ranches in the late winter.
Turkeys strut onto roads and roam into towns such as Wray where turkeys have been reported to peck at children in schoolyards. Most of the conflicts have been reported in northeastern and southeastern Colorado.
State officials the aim for licenses for hunting on private land is to reduce the turkey population by 15 percent.
The Denver Post reports that the turkeys now number 35,000 and live in 53 of Colorado's 64 counties. In some cases, residents are reporting flocks of 200 or more descending on farms and ranches in the late winter.
Turkeys strut onto roads and roam into towns such as Wray where turkeys have been reported to peck at children in schoolyards. Most of the conflicts have been reported in northeastern and southeastern Colorado.
State officials the aim for licenses for hunting on private land is to reduce the turkey population by 15 percent.
US religious envoys urge Iran to free 2 Americans
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — A group of U.S. Christian and Muslim envoys is returning from Tehran after holding talks with Iran's president over the possible release of two Americans jailed as spies.
A statement by the interfaith delegation Monday says they urged Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and other officials to release Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal on humanitarian grounds.
Iran's courts have considered a $1 million bail-for-freedom deal that also could set aside their eight-year prison sentences. But the hard-line judiciary has not given any timetable for a possible release.
The two men were detained in July 2009 along the Iran-Iraq border, where they say they were hiking. A third American in the group, Sarah Shourd, was freed last year.
A statement by the interfaith delegation Monday says they urged Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and other officials to release Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal on humanitarian grounds.
Iran's courts have considered a $1 million bail-for-freedom deal that also could set aside their eight-year prison sentences. But the hard-line judiciary has not given any timetable for a possible release.
The two men were detained in July 2009 along the Iran-Iraq border, where they say they were hiking. A third American in the group, Sarah Shourd, was freed last year.
Report: Deportations in Colorado flat since 2001
DENVER (AP) — Deportations in Colorado have remained flat in the 10 years since 9/11 despite a heightened emphasis on securing the border and thwarting terrorism.
The Denver Post reports that deportations for illegal entry make up 70 percent of this year's cases, as opposed to deportations involving terrorism charges. The newspaper quotes data from the nonprofit Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University.
There were 4,175 deportation proceedings in the state in 2001. In the fiscal year that ended in July, there were 4,098 deportation proceedings. Deportation proceedings have jumped 45 percent nationally in 10 years from 1.6 million in 2001 to 2.3 million in 2010.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials say the policies have resulted in more criminals being deported, jumping from 81,000 in 2008 to 195,000 in 2010.
The Denver Post reports that deportations for illegal entry make up 70 percent of this year's cases, as opposed to deportations involving terrorism charges. The newspaper quotes data from the nonprofit Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University.
There were 4,175 deportation proceedings in the state in 2001. In the fiscal year that ended in July, there were 4,098 deportation proceedings. Deportation proceedings have jumped 45 percent nationally in 10 years from 1.6 million in 2001 to 2.3 million in 2010.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials say the policies have resulted in more criminals being deported, jumping from 81,000 in 2008 to 195,000 in 2010.
Worker killed in trench collapse is from Longmont
DENVER (AP) — A construction worker who died after being buried under 10 feet of dirt in Lakewood has been identified.
The Jefferson County Coroner's Office Sunday identified the man as 45-year-old Jose Hernandez Cortes of Longmont. Cortes died Friday afternoon in the collapse of a trench dug for a patio foundation. The collapse partially buried another worker, who suffered minor injuries.
The Denver Post reports the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will join in investigating the workplace death.
The Jefferson County Coroner's Office Sunday identified the man as 45-year-old Jose Hernandez Cortes of Longmont. Cortes died Friday afternoon in the collapse of a trench dug for a patio foundation. The collapse partially buried another worker, who suffered minor injuries.
The Denver Post reports the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will join in investigating the workplace death.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Cooperative Ministeries of Logan County Needs Your Help
You can help the Cooperating Ministries of Logan County. They're looking for volunteers in the next couple of weeks for their 30th anniversary. Then there's the 75th anniversary of the welfare program of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on October 22. The idea is to get enough people together to put together some 400 hygiene kits, and lots more. To help or donate, contact Russ Lawson at (970) 580-9160, Eric Wilson at (970) 580-7360 or Jared Anderson at (970) 520-5504.
Rep. Cory Gardner announces Eastern Plains Town Hall Tour
COLORADO – Congressman Cory Gardner will hold another Town Hall Tour tomorrow. This tour has only one stop, though. Its from
4:00pm – 5:00pm and is a Weld County Town Meeting at Fort Lupton Middle School Auditorium. That's at 201 S. McKinley, Fort Lupton. Gardner will hold more town hall meetings toward the end of September, and we'll keep you posted on those.
4:00pm – 5:00pm and is a Weld County Town Meeting at Fort Lupton Middle School Auditorium. That's at 201 S. McKinley, Fort Lupton. Gardner will hold more town hall meetings toward the end of September, and we'll keep you posted on those.
Robber Shot In Foot By Partner
(Colorado Springs, CO) -- A robbery suspect got a rude awakening when he was shot in the foot by his partner-in-crime. The robber was trying to hold-up D and S Liquors in Colorado Springs last night when the owner used a remote key to lock the door, trapping the suspect inside. He was then struck in the foot by a bullet when his accomplice tried unsuccessfully to shoot-out the lock. The robber was caught by police, treated and arrested but the second man got away.
Colorado Teen Places Seventh In Swim From Alcatraz
(San Francisco, CA) -- A Colorado teen is one of the top finishers in the annual swim from Alcatraz to San Francisco. Fourteen-year-old Connor King from Montrose battled strong currents and 59-degree water earlier this month to place seventh in a field of hundreds. He completed the one-point-five-mile course in just 32-minutes.
At Least Five Aurora Council Members Victimized By ID Theft
(Aurora, CO) -- Police are saying at least five Aurora City Council members are the victims of identity theft. The thieves reportedly used a PayPal website called BillMeLater, and bought some high-priced electronics that were eventually shipped to Russia. The charges sent to the council members have been reversed.
Two Denver Men Facing Charges After Carousing With Dead Friend
(Denver, CO) -- Two Denver men are facing charges, after taking their dead friend out to a bar, a restaurant and a strip club. Police arrested 43-year-old Robert Jeffrey Young and 25-year-old Mark Rubinson after they loaded the body of Jeffrey Jarrett into a car for the August 27th escapade. Jarrett had been found unresponsive at his home earlier that evening.
70-Year-Old Lakewood Bicyclist Fatally Struck By SUV
(Lakewood, CO) -- A 70-year-old Lakewood bicyclist is dead, after he was hit by an SUV. Police say Lyle F. Klataske was killed yesterday morning when he turned in front of a vehicle on West Morrison Road. No charges against the SUV driver are expected.
Colorado considers changes to manage wild turkeys
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — Colorado wildlife officials say the state's turkey restoration program has been so successful that the birds are starting to cause some problems on the Eastern Plains.
Wildlife officials say in spots where turkeys are abundant, large flocks have been heading to cattle ranches, farms and homes to compete for food.
At a meeting Thursday in Colorado Springs, state parks and wildlife commissioners heard proposals to use hunters to help manage wild turkeys on private lands. Upcoming changes could include a new late season targeting hen turkeys in eastern Colorado, offering unlimited turkey hunting licenses in parts of Yuma County, or increasing the bag limit.
Commissioners asked staff to present changes at a meeting in November, when commissioners expect to set turkey license numbers.
Wildlife officials say in spots where turkeys are abundant, large flocks have been heading to cattle ranches, farms and homes to compete for food.
At a meeting Thursday in Colorado Springs, state parks and wildlife commissioners heard proposals to use hunters to help manage wild turkeys on private lands. Upcoming changes could include a new late season targeting hen turkeys in eastern Colorado, offering unlimited turkey hunting licenses in parts of Yuma County, or increasing the bag limit.
Commissioners asked staff to present changes at a meeting in November, when commissioners expect to set turkey license numbers.
GOP voices opposition to $3B tax hike for schools
DENVER (AP) — Colorado Republicans say a proposal to raise taxes by $3 billion over five years to help fund the state's education system will harm an already fragile economy.
Former state Rep. Victor Mitchell says the proposal on this November's ballot would be "a crushing blow" to the Colorado economy if it's approved.
The proposal known as Proposition 103 would raise the sales and use tax rate to 3 percent, up from 2.9 percent, and raise the state's individual and corporate tax rates to 5 percent, up from 4.63 percent. The increases would be in effect from 2012 to 2017.
Mitchell and some current state lawmakers said Thursday afternoon the tax hike would result in job losses.
Democratic Sen. Rollie Heath says having a good education system is the best economic driver.
Former state Rep. Victor Mitchell says the proposal on this November's ballot would be "a crushing blow" to the Colorado economy if it's approved.
The proposal known as Proposition 103 would raise the sales and use tax rate to 3 percent, up from 2.9 percent, and raise the state's individual and corporate tax rates to 5 percent, up from 4.63 percent. The increases would be in effect from 2012 to 2017.
Mitchell and some current state lawmakers said Thursday afternoon the tax hike would result in job losses.
Democratic Sen. Rollie Heath says having a good education system is the best economic driver.
Colorado health officials fine NC Systems Inc.
DENVER (AP) — Colorado health officials have ordered a Boulder-based company to pay more than $425,000 in unpaid licensing fees and fines for allegedly breaking state rules on radiation control.
NC Systems Inc. is a medical radiation-detection equipment company. It has a state license to use radioactive materials to test and calibrate its equipment at its Boulder facility.
State inspectors say that over the past two years, the company also performed unauthorized services, including receiving radioactive material for disposal, and lied about some of its activities to state officials.
Health officials say there's no significant threat to public health and safety.
NC Systems said owner Charles Rose wasn't available for comment Thursday.
Health officials say the company also has been cited by the state of Arizona over alleged unlawful possession of radiation sources.
NC Systems Inc. is a medical radiation-detection equipment company. It has a state license to use radioactive materials to test and calibrate its equipment at its Boulder facility.
State inspectors say that over the past two years, the company also performed unauthorized services, including receiving radioactive material for disposal, and lied about some of its activities to state officials.
Health officials say there's no significant threat to public health and safety.
NC Systems said owner Charles Rose wasn't available for comment Thursday.
Health officials say the company also has been cited by the state of Arizona over alleged unlawful possession of radiation sources.
UW Foundation has doubts about ranchland swap idea
CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The University of Wyoming Foundation has doubts about a proposed land swap involving some 50,000 acres of ranchland it jointly owns with a Colorado State University foundation.
UW Foundation President Ben Blalock said Thursday the idea isn't compatible with an agreement under which the foundations acquired the Y Cross Ranch property in the Laramie Mountains between Cheyenne and Laramie.
One condition of the gift to the UW and Colorado State University Research foundations was that the land generate revenue for university agricultural programs.
An environmental group and Laramie officials propose trading the property for land just east of Laramie that would become a state park.
Swap advocates say it would help protect an aquifer that supplies most of Laramie's water. The water is minimally treated before entering the water system.
UW Foundation President Ben Blalock said Thursday the idea isn't compatible with an agreement under which the foundations acquired the Y Cross Ranch property in the Laramie Mountains between Cheyenne and Laramie.
One condition of the gift to the UW and Colorado State University Research foundations was that the land generate revenue for university agricultural programs.
An environmental group and Laramie officials propose trading the property for land just east of Laramie that would become a state park.
Swap advocates say it would help protect an aquifer that supplies most of Laramie's water. The water is minimally treated before entering the water system.
Former Colorado man convicted of defrauding US
DENVER (AP) — A federal jury in Erie, Pa., has convicted a former Littleton, Colo., man of conspiring to defraud the Internal Revenue Service.
Federal prosecutors said Thursday that Donald Turner, also known as Donald Wood, had promoted a book about how to avoid paying federal income tax.
They say Meadville, Pa., veterinarian Daniel Leveto also promoted the book and sold his veterinary business to an offshore entity to hide income from the IRS. Leveto was sentenced in 2005 to nearly four years in prison.
Turner faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine at a sentencing hearing set for Jan. 18.
Federal prosecutors said Thursday that Donald Turner, also known as Donald Wood, had promoted a book about how to avoid paying federal income tax.
They say Meadville, Pa., veterinarian Daniel Leveto also promoted the book and sold his veterinary business to an offshore entity to hide income from the IRS. Leveto was sentenced in 2005 to nearly four years in prison.
Turner faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine at a sentencing hearing set for Jan. 18.
Colorado farm says Listeria found in cantaloupe
DENVER (AP) — A melon farm in Colorado has issued a recall of cantaloupe following a Listeria outbreak that has killed at least two people, sickened 22 and spread to several states.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the deaths from the outbreak were reported in Colorado and New Mexico, and state health departments said more deaths could be confirmed once testing comes back.
The CDC said the 22 people infected are in seven states: Colorado, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia.
Jensen Farms spokeswoman Amy Philpott said that one of the Colorado farm's Rocky Ford cantaloupes tested positive for the bacteria, but more tests are needed to determine if it's the same strain linked to the outbreak.
It is first time the bacteria has been linked to cantaloupe in the U.S.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the deaths from the outbreak were reported in Colorado and New Mexico, and state health departments said more deaths could be confirmed once testing comes back.
The CDC said the 22 people infected are in seven states: Colorado, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia.
Jensen Farms spokeswoman Amy Philpott said that one of the Colorado farm's Rocky Ford cantaloupes tested positive for the bacteria, but more tests are needed to determine if it's the same strain linked to the outbreak.
It is first time the bacteria has been linked to cantaloupe in the U.S.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Rep. Cory Gardner announces Eastern Plains Town Hall Tour
COLORADO – Congressman Cory Gardner is holding a town hall tour this month. Here's the schedule:
Friday September 16, 2011
7:30am – 8:30am Washington Country Town Meeting
Where: Otis Ambulance Barn, 417 N. Washington Street
9:30am – 10:30am Morgan County Town Meeting
Where: Brush City Council Chambers, 600 Edison Street
1:30pm – 2:30pm Logan County Town Meeting
Where: Merino Community Center, 211 Colorado Avenue
4:30pm to 5:30pm Sedgwick County Town Meeting
Where: Sedgwick Fire hall, 6907 Hwy 138
6:30pm to 7:30pm Philips County Town Meeting
Where: Haxtun Community Center, 125 E. Wilson
Saturday September 17, 2011
4:00pm – 5:00pm Weld County Town Meeting
Where: Fort Lupton Middle School Auditorium, 201 S. McKinley, Fort Lupton
Thursday September 29, 2011
8:00am – 9am Lincoln County Town Meeting
Where: Hugo Eastern Trails Depot Facility, 635 4th St.
10:30am – 11:30am Kit Carson County Town Meeting
Where: Stratton Activities Center, 918 Colorado Avenue
3:00pm to 4:00pm Yuma County Town Meeting
Where: Yuma County Elections Center, 130 E. 3rd Street Wray
###
Friday September 16, 2011
7:30am – 8:30am Washington Country Town Meeting
Where: Otis Ambulance Barn, 417 N. Washington Street
9:30am – 10:30am Morgan County Town Meeting
Where: Brush City Council Chambers, 600 Edison Street
1:30pm – 2:30pm Logan County Town Meeting
Where: Merino Community Center, 211 Colorado Avenue
4:30pm to 5:30pm Sedgwick County Town Meeting
Where: Sedgwick Fire hall, 6907 Hwy 138
6:30pm to 7:30pm Philips County Town Meeting
Where: Haxtun Community Center, 125 E. Wilson
Saturday September 17, 2011
4:00pm – 5:00pm Weld County Town Meeting
Where: Fort Lupton Middle School Auditorium, 201 S. McKinley, Fort Lupton
Thursday September 29, 2011
8:00am – 9am Lincoln County Town Meeting
Where: Hugo Eastern Trails Depot Facility, 635 4th St.
10:30am – 11:30am Kit Carson County Town Meeting
Where: Stratton Activities Center, 918 Colorado Avenue
3:00pm to 4:00pm Yuma County Town Meeting
Where: Yuma County Elections Center, 130 E. 3rd Street Wray
###
Celis Pleads in Home Invasion
Another plea deal in a Fort Morgan home invasion that happened this summer. District Court Judge Kevin Hoyer accepted the deal from 18 year old Saul Celis of Greeley and agreed to his plea to one count of theft between one thousand and 20 thousand dollars, which is a class four felony. Celis, Joanna Rubis and a juvenile are accused of breaking into a mobile home and stealing items that belonged to the owner, who was not home at the time, but another man was there, with the owner's permission. The prosecutor said with the plea deal, more serious charges would be dropped.
Largest-Ever CSU Freshman Class; Enrollment At All-Time High
(Fort Collins, CO) -- Colorado State University has its largest-ever freshman class, with total enrollment at an all-time high. Nearly 27-thousand students are attending this year, marking the third consecutive year of record enrollment at the school. The freshman class has an overall average GPA of three-point-59.
Longmont Butterball Turkey Facility Will Close In December
(Longmont, CO) -- The Butterball turkey facility in Longmont will close in December. Approximately 350 people work at the plant. The company said it wants to streamline operations, and the closure was prompted by increased grain and other costs.
Colorado Army post honors fallen soldier from Texas
FORT CARSON, Colo. (AP) — Colleagues say a Fort Carson-based soldier who was killed in Afghanistan was a leader who exuded calm in times of crisis.
The Army post held a memorial service Wednesday for Master Sgt. Charles L. Price III of Milam, Texas.
The 40-year-old former drill sergeant died Aug. 12 from wounds from a roadside bomb in Kandahar province.
He was on his sixth deployment since entering the Army in 1989. He also served in Iraq, Kosovo, Kuwait, the Balkans and Saudi Arabia.
His decorations included the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, five Army Commendation Medals and nine Army Achievement Medals.
Price was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
The Gazette reports Price is survived by his wife, four daughters and three sons.
The Army post held a memorial service Wednesday for Master Sgt. Charles L. Price III of Milam, Texas.
The 40-year-old former drill sergeant died Aug. 12 from wounds from a roadside bomb in Kandahar province.
He was on his sixth deployment since entering the Army in 1989. He also served in Iraq, Kosovo, Kuwait, the Balkans and Saudi Arabia.
His decorations included the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, five Army Commendation Medals and nine Army Achievement Medals.
Price was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
The Gazette reports Price is survived by his wife, four daughters and three sons.
Colorado hydro plan gets through new permit process
DENVER (AP) — Colorado officials say a rancher's small hydropower project in Rio Blanco County is among the first in the U.S. to go through a new streamlined federal permitting process.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission signed a memorandum of understanding with Colorado last year that allows multiple agencies to review requests for hydropower projects at the same time. The Governor's Energy Office says that can cut wait times on permits from three years down to less than two months.
The Governor's Energy Office said Wednesday that the 23-kilowatt Meeker Wenschhof project in northwest Colorado went through the process to get a license allowing for construction and operation.
The hydropower project will use water historically used for irrigation to offset the electricity used to power an irrigation sprinkler.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission signed a memorandum of understanding with Colorado last year that allows multiple agencies to review requests for hydropower projects at the same time. The Governor's Energy Office says that can cut wait times on permits from three years down to less than two months.
The Governor's Energy Office said Wednesday that the 23-kilowatt Meeker Wenschhof project in northwest Colorado went through the process to get a license allowing for construction and operation.
The hydropower project will use water historically used for irrigation to offset the electricity used to power an irrigation sprinkler.
Western farmers meet with Interior secretary
DENVER (AP) — The director of renewable energy for the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union says transmission lines could be an economic development tool for farmers and ranchers.
Bill Midcap likens transmission lines to railroads or interstate highways.
He and others met on Wednesday with Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, whose department is preparing a supplement to a plan it drafted on solar development on public land in California, Nevada, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona.
Midcap says many farmers and ranchers have the potential for wind or solar energy on their land but don't live near transmission lines that could deliver that power to cities.
Some residents don't want new power lines crossing their land.
Midcap is exploring whether it makes sense to pay landowners who agree to it.
Bill Midcap likens transmission lines to railroads or interstate highways.
He and others met on Wednesday with Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, whose department is preparing a supplement to a plan it drafted on solar development on public land in California, Nevada, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona.
Midcap says many farmers and ranchers have the potential for wind or solar energy on their land but don't live near transmission lines that could deliver that power to cities.
Some residents don't want new power lines crossing their land.
Midcap is exploring whether it makes sense to pay landowners who agree to it.
Colorado cantaloupe still being investigated
DENVER (AP) — The Food and Drug Administration is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to determine the source of contaminated cantaloupe blamed for a multistate outbreak of listeriosis.
Several Colorado grocery stores have removed cantaloupe from shelves, though there has been no official recall.
More than two dozen people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported in Colorado, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Montana and Texas, and four have died. Health officials say most consumed whole cantaloupes, most likely marketed from Rocky Ford in Colorado.
Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., is voluntarily recalling cantaloupe it shipped to Illinois, Wyoming, Tennessee, Utah, Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania between July 29 and Sept. 10.
Several Colorado grocery stores have removed cantaloupe from shelves, though there has been no official recall.
More than two dozen people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported in Colorado, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Montana and Texas, and four have died. Health officials say most consumed whole cantaloupes, most likely marketed from Rocky Ford in Colorado.
Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., is voluntarily recalling cantaloupe it shipped to Illinois, Wyoming, Tennessee, Utah, Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania between July 29 and Sept. 10.
News executives say mobile delivery future of news
DENVER (AP) — News executives opening an annual conference in Denver said that mobile news delivery offers newspapers and other media companies a tantalizing opportunity to make money.
The President and CEO of The Associated Press, Tom Curley, called mobile devices "a great opportunity for the do-over" for news providers that have seen dropping circulation and advertising revenue because they were slow to adapt to the Internet.
The remarks came at the gathering of the Associated Press Media Editors. The APME board voted earlier Wednesday to change the association's name from the Associated Press Managing Editors.
APME President Hollis Towns said the new name better reflects the modern news business and the association's membership.
The President and CEO of The Associated Press, Tom Curley, called mobile devices "a great opportunity for the do-over" for news providers that have seen dropping circulation and advertising revenue because they were slow to adapt to the Internet.
The remarks came at the gathering of the Associated Press Media Editors. The APME board voted earlier Wednesday to change the association's name from the Associated Press Managing Editors.
APME President Hollis Towns said the new name better reflects the modern news business and the association's membership.
Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. sings a win on 'Talent'
NEW YORK (AP) — Soulful vocalist Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. has sung his way to victory on "America's Got Talent."
The mellow singer from Logan, W.Va., took the crown on Wednesday, scoring $1 million and a Las Vegas headlining contract. He beat three other finalists on the season-ending broadcast of the NBC talent competition.
The other finalists were: The Silhouettes, a troupe of youngsters from Arvada, Colo., who use shadow dancing to illustrate songs, teenage rock band PopLyfe from Oakland, Calif.; and Team iLuminate (EYE'-loo-min-ayt), whose dancing performers equip themselves with wearable wireless lighting systems.
Murphy will headline at Caesars Palace next month, with the other three finalists also on the bill.
The mellow singer from Logan, W.Va., took the crown on Wednesday, scoring $1 million and a Las Vegas headlining contract. He beat three other finalists on the season-ending broadcast of the NBC talent competition.
The other finalists were: The Silhouettes, a troupe of youngsters from Arvada, Colo., who use shadow dancing to illustrate songs, teenage rock band PopLyfe from Oakland, Calif.; and Team iLuminate (EYE'-loo-min-ayt), whose dancing performers equip themselves with wearable wireless lighting systems.
Murphy will headline at Caesars Palace next month, with the other three finalists also on the bill.
Colorado cat, missing 5 years, is found on NYC street
NEW YORK (AP) — Animal care officials say a calico cat that wandered away from a Colorado home five years ago has been found on a New York City street.
But how Willow the cat traveled more than 1,600 miles is a mystery.
Thanks to a microchip implanted when she was a kitten, Willow will be reunited with her long-ago owners.
Willow was found Wednesday by a man on a Manhattan street.
Animal Care and Control agency executive director Julie Bank says Willow is healthy and probably has not been living on the streets for very long. She says there's no clue to how the cat got to New York.
Owner Jamie Squires, of Boulder, Colo., says Willow escaped during a home renovation.
She says her children are looking forward to seeing the cat again.
But how Willow the cat traveled more than 1,600 miles is a mystery.
Thanks to a microchip implanted when she was a kitten, Willow will be reunited with her long-ago owners.
Willow was found Wednesday by a man on a Manhattan street.
Animal Care and Control agency executive director Julie Bank says Willow is healthy and probably has not been living on the streets for very long. She says there's no clue to how the cat got to New York.
Owner Jamie Squires, of Boulder, Colo., says Willow escaped during a home renovation.
She says her children are looking forward to seeing the cat again.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Sugar Beet Days This Weekend
Sugar Beet Days is back in Sterling this weekend! Its in its 31st year and touts family fun, craft fair and a bazaar. Organizers of the event say there are lots of things to do, see touch, taste and enjoy. There's also the petting zoo, and the Sterling FFA will supply the animals. Here's something new too: the Gentle Giants will offer carriage rides. Sugar Beet Days runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Fort Morgan Budget Starts in Negative Territory
If the Fort Morgan city budget were passed right now, the city would still be in the hole. That's why the mayor, council and department heads are working to improve the numbers. They all say that while things are better than last year, the budget is sill in the negative from the start. The upcoming budget has overages in the general fund of 48 thousand dollars and in capital improvements of 106 thousand dollars, and that follows a deficit of 875 thousand dollars. So council will spend months crunching the numbers, making cuts where they can, to get the budget to a manageable level.
NTSB: Truck Driver Was Texting During Fatal Accident
(Washington, DC) -- The truck driver involved in a 2010 accident that claimed more than ten lives was texting at the time of the crash. That's the word from the National Transportation Safety Board's investigation of the accident on Interstate 65. The truck collided with a 15-passenger van carrying a Mennonite family and friends to a wedding. The NTSB also found that the driver made and got almost 70 texts and phone calls while he was driving in the day leading up to the crash.
Colorado Has Three Of Top 100 Universities
(New York, NY) -- Three of America's top 100 universities are in Colorado. The "U.S. News and World Report" said yesterday the Colorado School of Mines was tied for 75th with five other schools in the National Universities category. The University of Denver was ranked 82nd and the University of Colorado Boulder tied for 94th.
Rocky Ford Cantaloupe Pulled From Stores After Listeria Outbreak
(Denver, CO) -- Several markets are pulling Rocky Ford cantaloupe from their shelves, after the first-ever reported listeria outbreak in melons. King Soopers, Safeway and Whole Foods markets voluntarily removed the fruit yesterday. Colorado health officials are advising the elderly, pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems not to eat Rocky Ford-grown cantaloupe. No formal recall has been issued.
Colorado athletes pushing for carbon regulation
ASPEN, Colo. (AP) — Winter athletes and ski executives from Colorado are in Washington to talk about climate change.
Coloradans including Olympic snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler are scheduled to lobby Wednesday for carbon regulation. Earlier this month, President Barack Obama scrubbed a clean-air regulation that aimed to reduce health-threatening smog.
The athletes are part of a group called "Protect Our Winters." Auden Schendler of the Aspen Ski Co. and Aspen skier Chris Davenport also planned to lobby lawmakers.
A public presentation is planned for Wednesday evening at the Capitol Visitor Center on the National Mall.
Coloradans including Olympic snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler are scheduled to lobby Wednesday for carbon regulation. Earlier this month, President Barack Obama scrubbed a clean-air regulation that aimed to reduce health-threatening smog.
The athletes are part of a group called "Protect Our Winters." Auden Schendler of the Aspen Ski Co. and Aspen skier Chris Davenport also planned to lobby lawmakers.
A public presentation is planned for Wednesday evening at the Capitol Visitor Center on the National Mall.
VF completes $2.3 billion acquisition of Timberland
GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) — Clothing maker VF Corp., whose brands include Wrangler, Nautica and The North Face, said Tuesday that it has completed its acquisition of boot maker The Timberland Co.
The clothing and shoe maker announced in June that it planned to acquire Timberland for $43 per share, or roughly $2.3 billion.
Timberland, based in Stratham, N.H., will become part of VF's outdoor and action sports business unit. The company will retain its headquarters in Stratham, and its Smartwool business will remain in Steamboat Springs, Colo.
VF said the acquisition improves its position in the outdoor industry with two strong, well-known brands.
Shares of VF, based in Greensboro, N.C., rose $3.91, more than 3 percent, to close at $119.14.
Its stock was unchanged in after-hours trading.
The clothing and shoe maker announced in June that it planned to acquire Timberland for $43 per share, or roughly $2.3 billion.
Timberland, based in Stratham, N.H., will become part of VF's outdoor and action sports business unit. The company will retain its headquarters in Stratham, and its Smartwool business will remain in Steamboat Springs, Colo.
VF said the acquisition improves its position in the outdoor industry with two strong, well-known brands.
Shares of VF, based in Greensboro, N.C., rose $3.91, more than 3 percent, to close at $119.14.
Its stock was unchanged in after-hours trading.
Molycorp puts money into Boulder Wind Power
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. (AP) — Molycorp Inc., a rare-earth mining company, said on Tuesday that it is investing in Boulder Wind Power, which has designed a wind turbine generator powered by a rare earth magnet.
Molycorp did not disclose the size of its investment in the series B convertible preferred stock, but said it was part of an effort by Boulder Wind Power that raised $35 million. Molycorp said it was using cash for the investment.
Boulder, Colo.-based Boulder Wind Power is privately held and backed by venture capital, Molycorp said.
It said Boulder Wind Power's design allows for magnets that don't need the mineral dysprosium, which is scarce. The development plus other designs of the company should allow it to produce power competitively with power made from fossil fuels, Molycorp said.
Molycorp shares had risen 2 cents to close at $52.72 before the announcement.
They fell 16 cents to $52.56 in aftermarket trading.
Molycorp did not disclose the size of its investment in the series B convertible preferred stock, but said it was part of an effort by Boulder Wind Power that raised $35 million. Molycorp said it was using cash for the investment.
Boulder, Colo.-based Boulder Wind Power is privately held and backed by venture capital, Molycorp said.
It said Boulder Wind Power's design allows for magnets that don't need the mineral dysprosium, which is scarce. The development plus other designs of the company should allow it to produce power competitively with power made from fossil fuels, Molycorp said.
Molycorp shares had risen 2 cents to close at $52.72 before the announcement.
They fell 16 cents to $52.56 in aftermarket trading.
Early blizzard hits Pikes Peak
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — An early blizzard Tuesday morning at the top of Pikes Peak briefly closed a highway to the summit and left some tourists stranded at the top until the road was plowed.
The Colorado Springs Gazette reports that Tuesday morning's squall dusted the top of the famed peak, which sits just above 14,000 feet.
Pikes Peak Highway Ranger Brenda Wilson told the newspaper that the road was promptly plowed, but some tourists had to wait until the road was cleared so they could drive down. Another snow squall hit at about 12:30 p.m.
The ranger said that flakes from Tuesday's blizzard melted, but that snow may stick to the highway and exposed rocky summit overnight.
The Colorado Springs Gazette reports that Tuesday morning's squall dusted the top of the famed peak, which sits just above 14,000 feet.
Pikes Peak Highway Ranger Brenda Wilson told the newspaper that the road was promptly plowed, but some tourists had to wait until the road was cleared so they could drive down. Another snow squall hit at about 12:30 p.m.
The ranger said that flakes from Tuesday's blizzard melted, but that snow may stick to the highway and exposed rocky summit overnight.
Colorado weighs waiver of No Child Left Behind
DENVER (AP) — The Colorado Board of Education is joining other states weighing whether to seek a waiver from parts of the federal No Child Left Behind requirements.
Education officials are taking up the issue a month after U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan announced would give states the option of applying for waivers from many requirements of the widely criticized Bush-era law. Georgia, Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana, Virginia and Wisconsin are among the states seeking waivers.
Colorado education officials will discuss the option Wednesday.
The Obama administration wants to change the education overhaul that requires every student to be proficient in science and math by 2014.
States that apply for waivers must agree to education reforms such as tougher evaluation systems for teachers and more programs to help minority students.
Education officials are taking up the issue a month after U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan announced would give states the option of applying for waivers from many requirements of the widely criticized Bush-era law. Georgia, Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana, Virginia and Wisconsin are among the states seeking waivers.
Colorado education officials will discuss the option Wednesday.
The Obama administration wants to change the education overhaul that requires every student to be proficient in science and math by 2014.
States that apply for waivers must agree to education reforms such as tougher evaluation systems for teachers and more programs to help minority students.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Logan County Mail in Ballot Questions
Logan County voters will cast mail in ballots that will be due by 7 p.m. on November first. What's on those ballots? There's the statequestion or Proposition 103 that would raise sales and income taxes for five years, with the increased revenue earmarked for education. Also is the local question of whether the South Platte Valley Regional Transportation Authority can renew the point one percent sales tax to fund Prairie Express, the fixed-route bus service in Sterling. Then the city of Sterling is asking if it can charge a five percent tax on hotel rooms so the funding will be there for city and the county tourism and beautification projects.
Library Friends Book Sale this Saturday
The Friends of the Library will have a Book Sale on Saturday, Sept. 17. The sale for members only will be held from 9 am to 10 am. The general public may purchase items from 10 am to 2 pm. The sale will be held in the Children’s Library of the Library/Museum Services building at 414 Main St. in Fort Morgan.
Books for all ages will be offered. Items for sale include paperbacks, hardbacks, CDs, DVDs, audio books, videotapes, cassettes, and artwork.
Special items highlighted are Christmas crafts books, adult paperback fiction, history, and sports. Newer books will be offered for prices between $1 and $3.
There are even some free materials! Special prices include $7 for a flat of paperbacks, $1 for any 5 paperbacks (of regular size), and $1 for any 2 hardbacks (of regular size). This is a great opportunity to purchase items at very low prices. Funds from the Friends Book Sale are donated back to Library/Museum Services.
Books for all ages will be offered. Items for sale include paperbacks, hardbacks, CDs, DVDs, audio books, videotapes, cassettes, and artwork.
Special items highlighted are Christmas crafts books, adult paperback fiction, history, and sports. Newer books will be offered for prices between $1 and $3.
There are even some free materials! Special prices include $7 for a flat of paperbacks, $1 for any 5 paperbacks (of regular size), and $1 for any 2 hardbacks (of regular size). This is a great opportunity to purchase items at very low prices. Funds from the Friends Book Sale are donated back to Library/Museum Services.
Huge Coke Bust In Pueblo
(Pueblo, CO) -- Ten-million dollars in cocaine is seized during a huge drug bust in Pueblo. Authorities say yesterday's discovery inside the trunk of a car stopped during a routine stop along Interstate 25 in Pueblo may be the largest drug bust in the history of the Pueblo Police Department. A California man named Mark Bailey and a passenger were arrested on suspicion of drug possession.
Huge Coke Bust In Pueblo
(Pueblo, CO) -- Ten-million dollars in cocaine is seized during a huge drug bust in Pueblo. Authorities say yesterday's discovery inside the trunk of a car stopped during a routine stop along Interstate 25 in Pueblo may be the largest drug bust in the history of the Pueblo Police Department. A California man named Mark Bailey and a passenger were arrested on suspicion of drug possession.
Health Officials Say Fruit Likely Culprit In Listeria Outbreak
(Undated) -- Colorado health officials say cantaloupe grown in the Rocky Ford region might be behind the recent outbreak of listeria. So far, eleven of the 13 cases of listeria reported in Colorado have been traced to the current outbreak. Officials warn anyone who's at-risk for health problems, like people prone to infections or those over age 60, should avoid eating the fruit for the foreseeable future.
Name Misspelled At 9-11 Memorial
(New York, NY) -- A lot of work has been put into the September 11th Memorial which just recently opened. However, a name of one of the victims is apparently misspelled. Janice Hart of West Hempstead, Long Island, told several news outlets that when she visited the memorial Sunday, she noticed her brother's first name spelled wrong. The "E and R" in Jeffrey Schreier were reversed. The 9-11 Memorial Service says they are working on fixing the mistake.
Final proposed Colorado legislative districts discussed
DENVER (AP) — Partisan friction over new legislative districts in some of the Colorado's most populous counties took an unexpected twist when the unaffiliated chairman of the panel charged with the task announced he'll propose his own maps.
Chairman Mario Carrera announced Monday afternoon he'll unveil his own proposal for Colorado's new state legislative districts on Wednesday.
Most of the disagreement over the proposed maps from Democrats and Republicans involve proposed districts in Denver, Arapahoe, Jefferson, Adams and El Paso counties.
Legislative districts are redrawn every 10 years to account for population change.
How state and Senate districts are redrawn can impact the Legislature's balance of power for the next decade.
Maps will be submitted to the state Supreme Court for approval by Oct. 7.
Chairman Mario Carrera announced Monday afternoon he'll unveil his own proposal for Colorado's new state legislative districts on Wednesday.
Most of the disagreement over the proposed maps from Democrats and Republicans involve proposed districts in Denver, Arapahoe, Jefferson, Adams and El Paso counties.
Legislative districts are redrawn every 10 years to account for population change.
How state and Senate districts are redrawn can impact the Legislature's balance of power for the next decade.
Maps will be submitted to the state Supreme Court for approval by Oct. 7.
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