We told you last week that the Snyder Post Office could be on the list of those to close, but there's no definite word yet. About a hundred people went to last week's meeting to talk about keeping the station open. They heard from an official with the postal service who said it costs about 75 thousand dollars a year to run the place that only brings in about 26 thousand dollars a year. USPS is holding hearings across the country over the next four months now that they've announced some 37 hundred locations will close.
Monday, October 31, 2011
West Rail Line Opens First Station Today
The first light rail station on the West Rail Line will open to the public today. CBS 4 in Denver reports that the line integrates the Central Platte Valley tracks into the West Rail Line. The new Auraria West station is northwest of its old location. The 12-mile line is the first line of Regional Transportation District’s FasTracks program to start construction. Free coffee and donuts until 10 a.m. today.
Another of 11 Pleads Not Guilty
A man from Brush is the latest of eleven to plead not guilty in the Wildcat Dairy, false ID case. Javier Lievanos-Patrida's not guilty plea was accepted when his attorney entered it, and there's a motions hearing on January 5, 2012. District Court Chief Judge Michael Singer will preside over the trial. The 38 year old Lievanos-Patrida faces two felonies of criminal impersonation to gain a benefit and two counts of possession of forged identification, such as Social Security or alien registration cards.
2011 Leaf Pick Up Program
The City's Leaf Pick Up Program will run through November 27th this year. Please place leaves two feet away from the curb in established piles. Please do not park cars near piles of place tree limbs or other items in the streets.
Recreation Dept. Hours Change November 1st
The hours for the Recreation Center (Armory) at 528 State St. will change on Tuesday, November 1, 2011.
New hours will be:
Monday-Thursday from 6:00 am - 9:00 pm
Friday from 6:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturdays from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
If you have any questions, please call the Recreation Dept. at (970) 542-3921.
New hours will be:
Monday-Thursday from 6:00 am - 9:00 pm
Friday from 6:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturdays from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
If you have any questions, please call the Recreation Dept. at (970) 542-3921.
Vacancies Open on Airport Advisory Board
The Airport Advisory Board is seeking two new members to serve three-year terms that begin January 1, 2012.
The Board is requesting applications from those who wish to serve on the Board. Individuals interested must live within the City limits of Fort Morgan. The Board makes recommendations to the City Manager on long-range planning, capital improvements, operation, maintenance, and other policies meant to improve operations at the Fort Morgan Municipal Airport. If you have questions about the vacancies, please call David Callahan, Director of Community Development, at (970) 542-3924.
The City Clerk is accepting applications for the vacancies through Friday, November 18, 2011, at City Hall, 110 Main St. If you have questions about the application, please call John Brennan, City Clerk/Public Information Officer, at (970) 542-3963.
The Board is requesting applications from those who wish to serve on the Board. Individuals interested must live within the City limits of Fort Morgan. The Board makes recommendations to the City Manager on long-range planning, capital improvements, operation, maintenance, and other policies meant to improve operations at the Fort Morgan Municipal Airport. If you have questions about the vacancies, please call David Callahan, Director of Community Development, at (970) 542-3924.
The City Clerk is accepting applications for the vacancies through Friday, November 18, 2011, at City Hall, 110 Main St. If you have questions about the application, please call John Brennan, City Clerk/Public Information Officer, at (970) 542-3963.
Coloradans face nation's only statewide tax vote
DENVER (AP) — The nation's only statewide tax vote on the November ballot asks Colorado voters whether they want to temporarily raise taxes to generate $3 billion for classrooms and colleges. It's a proposal that has stirred fierce opposition because of the stagnant economy.
The vote could serve as a test of voters' mood on tax increases and their frustration after endless rounds of education cuts.
Opponents insist tax hikes will cost jobs and won't by themselves help schools. Some Democratic leaders have declined to publicly endorse the proposal, saying they see little appetite for a tax hike.
The measure would raise individual and corporate tax rates from 4.63 percent to 5 percent and Colorado's sales and use tax rate from 2.9 percent to 3 percent.
The vote could serve as a test of voters' mood on tax increases and their frustration after endless rounds of education cuts.
Opponents insist tax hikes will cost jobs and won't by themselves help schools. Some Democratic leaders have declined to publicly endorse the proposal, saying they see little appetite for a tax hike.
The measure would raise individual and corporate tax rates from 4.63 percent to 5 percent and Colorado's sales and use tax rate from 2.9 percent to 3 percent.
Adams State student treated for meningitis
ALAMOSA, Colo. (AP) — An Adams State College student is being treated for meningitis, prompting warnings to other students.
The Alamosa Valley Courier reports that the infected student does not live on campus. The newspaper also says that doctors believe the student appears to have the viral form of the disease, not the more contagious bacterial form.
However, the symptoms of both types are similar. Adams State students are being warned to seek medical care promptly if they develop flu like symptoms.
Ken Marquez, the vice president for student affairs, says students are encouraged but not required to receive the meningococcal vaccination.
The Alamosa Valley Courier reports that the infected student does not live on campus. The newspaper also says that doctors believe the student appears to have the viral form of the disease, not the more contagious bacterial form.
However, the symptoms of both types are similar. Adams State students are being warned to seek medical care promptly if they develop flu like symptoms.
Ken Marquez, the vice president for student affairs, says students are encouraged but not required to receive the meningococcal vaccination.
Suspect killed by police in Greeley identified
GREELEY, Colo. (AP) - The Weld County District Attorney's Office is investigating the shooting of a man during a exchange of child pronography that went wrong on Friday.
The victim, who was shot by police was identified as 30-year-old Jason Paul Collins of Johnstown.
Police say federal officials on a child pornography case arranged a meeting with Collins Friday afternoon.
Police say Collins was shot after he touched his gun. Police say the gun turned out to be a pellet gun, but that Collins repeatedly told an undercover officer the gun was real.
The victim, who was shot by police was identified as 30-year-old Jason Paul Collins of Johnstown.
Police say federal officials on a child pornography case arranged a meeting with Collins Friday afternoon.
Police say Collins was shot after he touched his gun. Police say the gun turned out to be a pellet gun, but that Collins repeatedly told an undercover officer the gun was real.
Historic Train In Springs
(Colorado Springs, CO) -- A historic train pulls into Colorado Springs to the delight of rail aficionados. Union Pacific Steam Locomotive number 8-4-4 was on display yesterday on South Sierra Madre Street. The 100-or-so who came out were allowed to climb aboard and talk about it with staff. The train is in town through tomorrow when it will leave for Pueblo at 8 a.m.
Crowns For Miss Colorado USA, Miss Colorado Teen USA
(Greeley, CO) -- Marybel Gonzalez of Denver and Jacqueline Zuccherino of Aurora are the two newest Miss Colorados. Last night at Union Colony Civic Center in Greeley, Gonzalez was crowned Miss Colorado USA 2012 and Zuccherino was named Miss Colorado Teen USA 2012. The two will advance to the national pageants next year.
Trick-Or-Treat Index Lists Denver In The Top 20
(Seattle, WA) -- This year's Zillow Trick-or-Treat Index lists Denver in the Top 20 nationally. The Seattle-based website ranks metropolitan areas based on home value, ease of walking, population density and local crime data. Denver was listed in the 16th spot with San Francisco ranked Number One.
Violent Confrontation Between Police And 'Occupy Denver' Protesters
(Denver, CO) -- "Occupy Denver" protesters are still recovering after a violent confrontation with police over the weekend. Twenty demonstrators were arrested Saturday as police fired pepper spray and pepper balls at a crowd in Civic Center. Two of the protesters were charged with felonies after an officer was reportedly knocked off his motorcycle and other officers were kicked when they moved into the park to remove illegal tents.
Homeless Man Charged With Murder Claims It Was Self-Defense
(Boulder, CO) -- A homeless man charged with murder is claiming he acted in self-defense. Charles Edward Waters said he used a knife to defend himself early Friday after two men attacked him while he was sleeping in an abandoned shed. The unidentified victims were taken to Boulder Community Hospital where one of them died.
Colo. congressional redistricting suit wraps up
DENVER (AP) — Closing arguments are expected in a lawsuit to decide new Colorado congressional districts.
Attorneys for Democrats, Republicans and other political interests are scheduled to deliver their remarks Monday morning in Denver District Court in a case that can impact political races next year.
A judge is considering about a half-dozen maps, including proposals from both major parties and Latino groups who say they want to make sure the growing Hispanic population is fairly represented.
Democrats and Republicans filed lawsuits after the Legislature failed to agree on new districts this spring to reflect population changes during the last 10 years. Republicans say they want minimal changes to the current districts. Democrats say districts should change to make races more competitive.
The state's House delegation has four Republicans and three Democrats.
Attorneys for Democrats, Republicans and other political interests are scheduled to deliver their remarks Monday morning in Denver District Court in a case that can impact political races next year.
A judge is considering about a half-dozen maps, including proposals from both major parties and Latino groups who say they want to make sure the growing Hispanic population is fairly represented.
Democrats and Republicans filed lawsuits after the Legislature failed to agree on new districts this spring to reflect population changes during the last 10 years. Republicans say they want minimal changes to the current districts. Democrats say districts should change to make races more competitive.
The state's House delegation has four Republicans and three Democrats.
Friday, October 28, 2011
4 Year 4 You Campaign to Seeks to Increase College Transfers
State Tour to Showcase New Opportunities for Community College Students
In an effort to increase the number of community college students transferring to a four-year college or university, the “4 Year 4 You” tour is visiting all of Colorado’s public community colleges the week of October 31.
The tour will be at Morgan Community College on Friday, November 4 from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and will visit each of Colorado’s 15 community colleges with a goal to reach over 1,000 students. The tour will highlight new programs designed to make the transition from two-year to four-year college or university more transparent and accessible – helping ensure students can achieve their educational goals.
At each campus, volunteers will talk with students about guaranteed admissions to four-year schools, dual enrollment, and other transfer programs.
Stephen Ludwig, a former community college student and current University of Colorado Regent, is organizing the tour with donors and volunteers making the event possible. Tour partners are College in Colorado, a program of the Colorado Department of Higher Education; Colorado’s Community College System office; the presidents of Colorado’s public community colleges; and the Public Education Business Coalition, a non-profit partnership of Colorado education and business leaders.
The 4 Year 4 You tour has two goals. The first is to provide students information they need to help them reach their educational goals. The second is to let the public know that community colleges are a great place to start a college career.
“On any given year, about five percent of public community college students transfer to a public four year school. We can do better,” said Regent Ludwig. “One of the best ways is to let students know that there are clear paths to four-year schools. We are providing information to students that I wish I had when I was going to community college. “
In an effort to increase the number of community college students transferring to a four-year college or university, the “4 Year 4 You” tour is visiting all of Colorado’s public community colleges the week of October 31.
The tour will be at Morgan Community College on Friday, November 4 from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and will visit each of Colorado’s 15 community colleges with a goal to reach over 1,000 students. The tour will highlight new programs designed to make the transition from two-year to four-year college or university more transparent and accessible – helping ensure students can achieve their educational goals.
At each campus, volunteers will talk with students about guaranteed admissions to four-year schools, dual enrollment, and other transfer programs.
Stephen Ludwig, a former community college student and current University of Colorado Regent, is organizing the tour with donors and volunteers making the event possible. Tour partners are College in Colorado, a program of the Colorado Department of Higher Education; Colorado’s Community College System office; the presidents of Colorado’s public community colleges; and the Public Education Business Coalition, a non-profit partnership of Colorado education and business leaders.
The 4 Year 4 You tour has two goals. The first is to provide students information they need to help them reach their educational goals. The second is to let the public know that community colleges are a great place to start a college career.
“On any given year, about five percent of public community college students transfer to a public four year school. We can do better,” said Regent Ludwig. “One of the best ways is to let students know that there are clear paths to four-year schools. We are providing information to students that I wish I had when I was going to community college. “
Raccoon Takes Nap In Woman's Tub
(Colorado Springs, CO) -- A pooped-out raccoon was finally captured after he decided to take a nap in a Colorado Springs woman's bathtub. Alice Scott tells KKTV-TV the house cat-sized raccoon came into her home and wouldn't leave until an Animal Control specialist arrived on the scene. The animal seemed to like his surroundings so much he even posed while Scott took its picture. Officials say Scott's story is typical this time of year as wild animals are busy looking for food.
Afghani Firefight Wounds Five Carson Soldiers
(Fort Carson, CO) -- Fierce fighting in Afghanistan left five soldiers from Fort Carson wounded. The four-hour-long firefight with Taliban insurgents happened yesterday in the country's Kandahar province. The battle ensued near a U.S.- occupied compound near Camp Nathan Smith. The "Colorado Springs Gazette" says five soldiers from Fort Carson were injured as was one civilian contractor and a member of the Afghan National Army.
State Issues First Medical-Marijuana Business Licenses In Nation
(Denver, CO) -- Colorado is the first state in America to issue medical-marijuana business licenses. The Medical Marijuana Enforcement Division of the Department of Revenue has issued eleven licenses to businesses in Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder, Fort Collins and Littleton. The first license to a Denver business was presented Wednesday to Tom Sterlacci, the owner of Dr. J's.
Adams County's Former Public Works Director Indicted In Paving Scandal
(Adams County, CO) -- The former public works director of Adams County is facing 26 counts including embezzlement in the Quality Paving Scandal. Leland Asay, who was indicted yesterday, is the seventh person to be charged in the ongoing scandal. County taxpayers allegedly paid millions for paving work that was either over-billed or never done.
Statue Of Liberty Celebrates 125th Birthday
(New York, NY) -- The Statue of Liberty is celebrating her 125th birthday today. The National Park is marking the occasion with a full day of festivities complete with a re-creation of her original dedication on October 28th, 1886. Park Ranger Dave Stack says Lady Liberty has held up pretty well over all these years. But the interior of the statue will close tomorrow to begin a year of renovations. The statue was given to the United States as a gift from the people of France.
Oklahoma company recalls meat, poultry pie products
DAVIS, Okla. (AP) — An Oklahoma-based company is recalling nearly 9,000 pounds of frozen meat and poultry pie products.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service said Thursday some products from Original Fried Pies, Inc. contain a preservative called sodium benzoate that doesn't appear on package labels.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service says sodium benzoate is not approved for use as an added ingredient in meat and poultry products.
The Davis, Okla.-based company's recall includes three different kinds of cheese sauce and another sauce with vegetables and chicken.
The food that's being recalled was produced between April 27 and Thursday. It was distributed for use at restaurant locations in Arkansas, Colorado, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.
There have been no reports of illness tied to eating the mislabeled products.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service said Thursday some products from Original Fried Pies, Inc. contain a preservative called sodium benzoate that doesn't appear on package labels.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service says sodium benzoate is not approved for use as an added ingredient in meat and poultry products.
The Davis, Okla.-based company's recall includes three different kinds of cheese sauce and another sauce with vegetables and chicken.
The food that's being recalled was produced between April 27 and Thursday. It was distributed for use at restaurant locations in Arkansas, Colorado, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.
There have been no reports of illness tied to eating the mislabeled products.
Hearing delayed for man in toilet suspect
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A defense attorney says a mental health evaluation is needed before a man suspected hiding in a portable toilet and spying on women in bathrooms around Boulder can enter a plea.
The Boulder Daily Camera reports that a judge postponed Luke Chrisco's hearing Thursday where he was to enter a plea. Defense attorney Jason Savela says a mental health evaluation is needed before plea negotiations with prosecutors can be completed.
The 30-year-old Chrisco faces multiple counts of burglary and unlawful sexual contact for allegedly spying on women using restrooms around Boulder. His arrest came in June after a woman at a yoga festival noticed something moving inside a portable toilet and a feces-stained man later ran away.
Chrisco's arraignment is now set for Nov. 22.
The Boulder Daily Camera reports that a judge postponed Luke Chrisco's hearing Thursday where he was to enter a plea. Defense attorney Jason Savela says a mental health evaluation is needed before plea negotiations with prosecutors can be completed.
The 30-year-old Chrisco faces multiple counts of burglary and unlawful sexual contact for allegedly spying on women using restrooms around Boulder. His arrest came in June after a woman at a yoga festival noticed something moving inside a portable toilet and a feces-stained man later ran away.
Chrisco's arraignment is now set for Nov. 22.
Thousands without power and heat in Colorado
DENVER (AP) — Thousands of people along Colorado's Front Range are still without power and heat after a fall snowstorm downed trees and power lines.
The state's largest utility, Xcel Energy, said about 24,000 customers were still affected Thursday evening. That's down from a high of about 200,000.
Xcel says most customers will have power by Thursday night, but it will be Friday before all power is restored.
Xcel's outages are in and around Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins and Greeley.
About 90 homes and businesses in Loveland are still without power, down from as many as 10,000 right after the storm. Those customers are served by a municipally owned utility lost power during the storm.
Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association says at last count, it had about 1,100 outages.
The state's largest utility, Xcel Energy, said about 24,000 customers were still affected Thursday evening. That's down from a high of about 200,000.
Xcel says most customers will have power by Thursday night, but it will be Friday before all power is restored.
Xcel's outages are in and around Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins and Greeley.
About 90 homes and businesses in Loveland are still without power, down from as many as 10,000 right after the storm. Those customers are served by a municipally owned utility lost power during the storm.
Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association says at last count, it had about 1,100 outages.
Edwards Responds to Newspaper's Allegations
"Evidently, South Platte Sentinel has made some allegations questioning my integrity in the way that the purchases are made here at the county."
And yes, the newspaper has questioned whether New Age, the company in which Logan County Commissioner Jim Edwards is a 65 percent share owner, is getting much of the county's business where it didn't before he became commissioner. Edwards responds to the allegations saying its all above board.
He said, "The numbers are what they are. Yeah, it looks like we're at 55 percent of the purchases. All I can contribute (sic) that to, would be competitive bidding. That it either outbid somebody or had a better value on the service."
Edwards said in a news conference, that he stayed away from the bidding and the authorizing of the purchases. He insists that he had no control or influence over what the county did.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Irizarry-Urrutia's Bond Lowered
The former Log Lane Village Marshal's bond has been cut. District Court Judge Douglas Vannoy reduced Edwin "Izzy" Irizarry-Urrutia's bond from 50 thousand dollars to 25 thousand dollars. The 33 year old Irizarry-Urrutia faces a charge of sexual assault that happened in mid-September. The public defender in the case told Vannoy that prosecutors had offered only misdemeanor charges, which did not warrant the high bond.
Lots of Snow
The first snow of the season brought about a foot of snow to Morgan County. CDOT said roads were, for the most part, clear, but bridges and overpasses may have been icy. While it was cold enough to dump several inches of snow on the ground, county officials said the ground was still warm enough to melt it quickly.
Colorado Girl Scouts Welcome Seven-Year-Old Boy's Membership Application
(Denver, CO) -- Officials with Girl Scouts of Colorado are saying a local worker made an error in rejecting a seven-year-old boy's membership application. "9News" reports that Bobby Montoya identifies as a girl and wanted to join his sister in the group. The Girl Scouts issued a statement saying they're receiving more requests for support of transgender kids, and that if a child identifies as a girl, she is welcome to join.
Hearing for suspect in fire near Air Force Academy
DENVER (AP) — An arraignment hearing is scheduled for a man accused of starting a fire near the U.S. Air Force Academy on the Pike National Forest this summer.
Twenty-two-year-old Michael Anthony Penn is facing federal charges of setting timber afire and damaging U.S. property by fire.
He was arrested in Las Vegas but has been transferred to Denver.
He made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court on Monday without an attorney.
Twenty-two-year-old Michael Anthony Penn is facing federal charges of setting timber afire and damaging U.S. property by fire.
He was arrested in Las Vegas but has been transferred to Denver.
He made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court on Monday without an attorney.
Obama: No decision on oil pipeline from Canada
DENVER (AP) — President Barack Obama says his administration has made no decision on whether a Canadian company can proceed with plans for a transnational oil pipeline to Texas.
A protester during Obama's appearance at the University of Colorado Denver yelled that the president should say no to the contested Keystone XL project.
Obama said his administration is looking into the issue but had made no decision. He told the protester: "I know your deep concern about it. We will address it."
The proposed pipeline has prompted protests nationally and demonstrators have been arrested in front of the White House. Demonstrators protested outside one of Obama's fundraisers in San Francisco Tuesday.
The pipeline would carry oil derived from tar sands in Alberta, Canada, to refineries in Houston and Port Arthur, Texas.
A protester during Obama's appearance at the University of Colorado Denver yelled that the president should say no to the contested Keystone XL project.
Obama said his administration is looking into the issue but had made no decision. He told the protester: "I know your deep concern about it. We will address it."
The proposed pipeline has prompted protests nationally and demonstrators have been arrested in front of the White House. Demonstrators protested outside one of Obama's fundraisers in San Francisco Tuesday.
The pipeline would carry oil derived from tar sands in Alberta, Canada, to refineries in Houston and Port Arthur, Texas.
Students cheer Obama's loan plan but still worry
DENVER (AP) — President Barack Obama's student loan announcement at Denver's Auraria campus got a rowdy reception — but many students and graduates who watched Obama lay out his plan to ease debt payments said their fears are far from eased.
Students said Wednesday that they're still worried about getting a job after graduation, Others said that Obama's plan won't help them because they have loans from private companies.
Obama's plan would ease student loan payments for some 1.6 million people. The highlights include accelerating a measure that reduces the maximum required payment from 15 percent of annual discretionary income to 10 percent.
In addition, the White House says the remaining debt would be forgiven after 20 years, instead of 25.
Students said Wednesday that they're still worried about getting a job after graduation, Others said that Obama's plan won't help them because they have loans from private companies.
Obama's plan would ease student loan payments for some 1.6 million people. The highlights include accelerating a measure that reduces the maximum required payment from 15 percent of annual discretionary income to 10 percent.
In addition, the White House says the remaining debt would be forgiven after 20 years, instead of 25.
Obama announces help for student loan borrowers
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says it has never been more important for Americans to get a college education.
But he says it has also never been more expensive to do so.
Speaking at the University of Colorado in Denver, the president announced new executive actions to lower student loan payments. The initiative accelerates an income-based repayment plan that reduces the maximum required payment on student loans to 10 percent of annual income. The measure was supposed to go into effect in 2014, but Obama wants it to start next year.
Obama also announced a program to allow borrowers to consolidate their loans and get a lower interest rate.
The president says by lowering loan payments, people will feel more confident buying houses and making other purchases that will give the economy a much needed boost.
But he says it has also never been more expensive to do so.
Speaking at the University of Colorado in Denver, the president announced new executive actions to lower student loan payments. The initiative accelerates an income-based repayment plan that reduces the maximum required payment on student loans to 10 percent of annual income. The measure was supposed to go into effect in 2014, but Obama wants it to start next year.
Obama also announced a program to allow borrowers to consolidate their loans and get a lower interest rate.
The president says by lowering loan payments, people will feel more confident buying houses and making other purchases that will give the economy a much needed boost.
ATF arrests 2 from Colorado National Guard
CENTENNIAL, Colo. (AP) — The Colorado National Guard says the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives has arrested two members on firearms charges.
ATF spokesman Bradley Beyersdorf told The Denver Post he couldn't release details of the arrests Tuesday of Staff Sgt. Eric Lee and Spc. Matthew Laflin because an investigation is ongoing.
The Colorado National Guard says Lee and Laflin are both traditional, part-time National Guard members from B Company, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, based in Fort Lupton.
Lee was active duty Army from May 2004 to August 2009, when he joined the Colorado Army National Guard.
Laflin enlisted into the Colorado Army National Guard in 2006.
ATF spokesman Bradley Beyersdorf told The Denver Post he couldn't release details of the arrests Tuesday of Staff Sgt. Eric Lee and Spc. Matthew Laflin because an investigation is ongoing.
The Colorado National Guard says Lee and Laflin are both traditional, part-time National Guard members from B Company, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, based in Fort Lupton.
Lee was active duty Army from May 2004 to August 2009, when he joined the Colorado Army National Guard.
Laflin enlisted into the Colorado Army National Guard in 2006.
8 cars on BNSF coal train derail in Peetz
PEETZ, Colo. (AP) - A train has derailed in Peetz in northeastern Colorado.
KUSA-TV in Denver reports eight cars of a southbound Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Corp. coal train jumped the tracks around 10 a.m. Wednesday.
No injuries were reported.
KUSA reported the derailment occurred near the Peetz Farmers Coop bulk fuel depot.
KUSA-TV in Denver reports eight cars of a southbound Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Corp. coal train jumped the tracks around 10 a.m. Wednesday.
No injuries were reported.
KUSA reported the derailment occurred near the Peetz Farmers Coop bulk fuel depot.
DU reports confirmed case of TB in student
DENVER (AP) — The University of Denver has sent a letter informing students and parents of a confirmed case of tuberculosis in one of its students.
KUSA-TV in Denver reports the university told students Monday that the ill student has been moved off campus and is undergoing treatment.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that typically attacks the lungs but also can attack other organs. Left untreated, it can be fatal.
Symptoms include night sweats, fever, weight loss and fatigue.
KUSA-TV in Denver reports the university told students Monday that the ill student has been moved off campus and is undergoing treatment.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that typically attacks the lungs but also can attack other organs. Left untreated, it can be fatal.
Symptoms include night sweats, fever, weight loss and fatigue.
DENVER (AP) — Snow from the first storm of the season to hit the Front Range knocked out power and heat to thousands of homes and businesses Wednesday while downing tree branches and bringing more snow to Colorado's mountains.
DENVER (AP) — Snow from the first storm of the season to hit the Front Range knocked out power and heat to thousands of homes and businesses Wednesday while downing tree branches and bringing more snow to Colorado's mountains.
The state's largest utility, Xcel Energy, said about 140,000 customers in and around Denver and in northern Colorado, including Greeley and the Fort Collins area, lost power at some point during the storm as tree limbs weighed down by the snow snapped power lines. About 107,000 were still without power as of Wednesday afternoon. Many of the trees still had leaves that helped them catch more snow.
The city of Loveland said as many as 10,000 customers lost power, and an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 homes and businesses served by its municipally owned utility were still without electricity by late Wednesday afternoon.
Some could be without power until Thursday afternoon, so the Red Cross has opened a shelter in the city.
Greeley and Longmont also were opening warming shelters for anyone without power. Longmont's city-owned utility was working to restore electricity to an estimated 700 customers.
United Power, a Brighton-based electric cooperative, said about 300 of its customers were also without power.
Xcel Energy brought in crews from Amarillo, Texas, and Grand Junction to help repairs, but spokesman Mark Stutz it could take several days to restore service to everyone.
Colorado State University blocked off a few parts of campus where heavy, wet snow had snapped off tree branches. One female student was taken to a hospital after she apparently was hit in the head by a fallen branch. Her condition wasn't released.
Poudre Fire Authority responded to multiple calls of trees that had fallen, whether on streets, sidewalks, cars or homes.
Northern Colorado got the most snow. Greeley picked up about a foot and Jamestown, in Boulder County, received 18.2 inches.
Between 12 and 16 inches of snow fell at Rocky Mountain National Park.
The state's largest utility, Xcel Energy, said about 140,000 customers in and around Denver and in northern Colorado, including Greeley and the Fort Collins area, lost power at some point during the storm as tree limbs weighed down by the snow snapped power lines. About 107,000 were still without power as of Wednesday afternoon. Many of the trees still had leaves that helped them catch more snow.
The city of Loveland said as many as 10,000 customers lost power, and an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 homes and businesses served by its municipally owned utility were still without electricity by late Wednesday afternoon.
Some could be without power until Thursday afternoon, so the Red Cross has opened a shelter in the city.
Greeley and Longmont also were opening warming shelters for anyone without power. Longmont's city-owned utility was working to restore electricity to an estimated 700 customers.
United Power, a Brighton-based electric cooperative, said about 300 of its customers were also without power.
Xcel Energy brought in crews from Amarillo, Texas, and Grand Junction to help repairs, but spokesman Mark Stutz it could take several days to restore service to everyone.
Colorado State University blocked off a few parts of campus where heavy, wet snow had snapped off tree branches. One female student was taken to a hospital after she apparently was hit in the head by a fallen branch. Her condition wasn't released.
Poudre Fire Authority responded to multiple calls of trees that had fallen, whether on streets, sidewalks, cars or homes.
Northern Colorado got the most snow. Greeley picked up about a foot and Jamestown, in Boulder County, received 18.2 inches.
Between 12 and 16 inches of snow fell at Rocky Mountain National Park.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
CASA Closes
CASA of the Plains is closing next month. Court Appointed Special Advocates works with the 13th Judicial District and said it's not able to financially serve those its been there for. CASA tried to get a grant from some Colorado foundations and from National CASA, but wasn't able to do so. Volunteers here can continue to work on their under Colorado CASA until June 30, 2012. The local CASA has been working for children of abuse for about nine years.
Snow Decreases Later Today
The National Weather Service says moderate to heavy snow will continue in Logan, Morgan and other northeastern Colorado counties until this afternoon, then decrease. Ther could be up to 24 inches of snow in the mountains and foothills. There could be up to 14 inches over the urban corridor west of I-25, and up to 10 inches on the Plains east of I-25. NWS says if you're driving to Denver this morning, the commute could be a challenge.
Colorado Skygazers Get Rare Look At Northern Lights
(Beulah, CO) -- Colorado skygazers are still talking about a rare appearance of the northern lights. "The Denver Post" reported a sighting in Beulah by amateur astronomer Matt Sellers. The Monday-night aurora borealis was caused by Saturday's coronal mass ejection, an explosion of energy on the sun.
CDC Says Death Toll Increased In Listeria Outbreak
(Atlanta, GA) -- The CDC is saying the death toll from the listeria outbreak has increased. Twenty-eight people have died, up from 25 last week. Jensen Farms in southeastern Colorado recalled all its cantaloupe in September. The median age of those who have died is 84 years.
Gay graduates stepping out at Air Force Academy
DENVER (AP) — Gay and lesbian Air Force Academy graduates plan to maintain a higher profile at events surrounding next month's home football game against Army now that "don't ask, don't tell" has been repealed.
A gay and lesbian alumni group called the Blue Alliance will display a rainbow flag and a Blue Alliance banner at its tailgate party before the Nov. 5 game on the academy campus north of Colorado Springs.
Greg Mooneyham, executive director of the Blue Alliance, said Tuesday that the academy's dean of faculty has accepted an invitation to attend the group's annual dinner on campus after the game.
The Pentagon formally lifted the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military last month.
A gay and lesbian alumni group called the Blue Alliance will display a rainbow flag and a Blue Alliance banner at its tailgate party before the Nov. 5 game on the academy campus north of Colorado Springs.
Greg Mooneyham, executive director of the Blue Alliance, said Tuesday that the academy's dean of faculty has accepted an invitation to attend the group's annual dinner on campus after the game.
The Pentagon formally lifted the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military last month.
DENVER (AP) — Las Animas County commissioners are among parties challenging a proposal before the Colorado Supreme Court over new legislative boundaries.
DENVER (AP) — Las Animas County commissioners are among parties challenging a proposal before the Colorado Supreme Court over new legislative boundaries.
Legislative lines are redrawn every 10 years based on updated U.S. Census data to balance population in the various districts.
A proposal submitted to the state Supreme Court would split Las Animas County into two House districts in the Colorado General Assembly. County Commissioner Mack Louden tells The Pueblo Chieftain the county wants to be kept whole.
He says county commissioners submitted their challenge to the Supreme Court on Friday, ahead of the deadline Monday.
Weld County commissioners also oppose the proposal. They want to increase Weld County's representation in the House.
Legislative lines are redrawn every 10 years based on updated U.S. Census data to balance population in the various districts.
A proposal submitted to the state Supreme Court would split Las Animas County into two House districts in the Colorado General Assembly. County Commissioner Mack Louden tells The Pueblo Chieftain the county wants to be kept whole.
He says county commissioners submitted their challenge to the Supreme Court on Friday, ahead of the deadline Monday.
Weld County commissioners also oppose the proposal. They want to increase Weld County's representation in the House.
Girl cited with bringing pot brownie to school
DENVER (AP) — Denver police have cited an eighth-grade student accused of bringing a brownie laced with marijuana to school.
Police spokesman John White says the girl got the brownie from someone on the street and brought it to Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy. White says the student shared the brownie with four to five friends, one of whom got sick.
The eighth-grader was cited with unlawful acts on school grounds and possession or consumption of marijuana.
Police spokesman John White says the girl got the brownie from someone on the street and brought it to Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy. White says the student shared the brownie with four to five friends, one of whom got sick.
The eighth-grader was cited with unlawful acts on school grounds and possession or consumption of marijuana.
Fort Collins man accused of sexually assaulting 7
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Larimer County sheriff's officials have arrested a Fort Collins man suspected of inappropriately touching seven girls, some of whom authorities say were lured with alcohol and cigarettes.
Authorities said Tuesday there could be more victims.
Forty-six-year-old James William Swets faces multiple felony counts of sexual assault against a child, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, enticement of a child, and attempted unlawful sexual contact.
The Coloradoan reports Swets lives on the grounds of the Swetsville Zoo, which is a collection of whimsical sculptures by Bill Swets near Timnath.
Authorities said Tuesday there could be more victims.
Forty-six-year-old James William Swets faces multiple felony counts of sexual assault against a child, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, enticement of a child, and attempted unlawful sexual contact.
The Coloradoan reports Swets lives on the grounds of the Swetsville Zoo, which is a collection of whimsical sculptures by Bill Swets near Timnath.
Teacher accused of making bomb threat at school
Teacher accused of making bomb threat at school
DENVER (AP) — Police and prosecutors say a gym teacher who didn't want to be at school last week left a note at her elementary school saying there was a bomb inside.
Officials at the private, bilingual school Escuela de Guadalupe told KUSA-TV that 42-year-old Jennifer Gomes has been suspended.
She is free on a $2,000 bond.
Police say the note was left at the school's main entrance Oct. 17. A police report says Gomes allegedly admitted leaving the note.
Gomes faces a charge of false reporting of explosives.
DENVER (AP) — Police and prosecutors say a gym teacher who didn't want to be at school last week left a note at her elementary school saying there was a bomb inside.
Officials at the private, bilingual school Escuela de Guadalupe told KUSA-TV that 42-year-old Jennifer Gomes has been suspended.
She is free on a $2,000 bond.
Police say the note was left at the school's main entrance Oct. 17. A police report says Gomes allegedly admitted leaving the note.
Gomes faces a charge of false reporting of explosives.
Obama college loan plan aims at an old voting bloc
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is detailing a college loan plan that could help him shore up support among cash-strapped students and graduates.
The plan he was to announce Wednesday in Denver would allow millions of student loan recipients to lower their payments and consolidate their loans.
Young voters were an important bloc in Obama's 2008 campaign, and Occupy Wall Street protesters have expressed concern about burdensome student loan debt.
Obama's announcement comes the same day a new report is being released by the College Board. It shows average instate tuition and fees at four-year public colleges have risen $631, or 8.3 percent, compared with a year ago.
Outside of mortgages, student loans are the No. 1 source of household debt.
The plan he was to announce Wednesday in Denver would allow millions of student loan recipients to lower their payments and consolidate their loans.
Young voters were an important bloc in Obama's 2008 campaign, and Occupy Wall Street protesters have expressed concern about burdensome student loan debt.
Obama's announcement comes the same day a new report is being released by the College Board. It shows average instate tuition and fees at four-year public colleges have risen $631, or 8.3 percent, compared with a year ago.
Outside of mortgages, student loans are the No. 1 source of household debt.
Obama wraps up 3-day Western tour
DENVER (AP) — President Barack Obama is wrapping up a three-day tour through crucial political states, searching for votes and money and unveiling executive steps to prime the economy even as his jobs bill struggles in Congress.
Today at the University of Colorado's Denver campus, he will highlight a new initiative to make it easier for graduates to repay their student loans.
The President is due to speak at 10:45 a.m.
He earlier announced a mortgage refinancing program and on Tuesday the White House announced new steps to help veterans.
Obama held six fundraisers, including star-studded events in Los Angeles. He gathered backers in Denver and Las Vegas, urging them to find energy for the 2012 campaign. And he coined a new slogan — "We can't wait" — to draw distinctions with congressional Republicans who oppose his $447 billion economic plan.
Today at the University of Colorado's Denver campus, he will highlight a new initiative to make it easier for graduates to repay their student loans.
The President is due to speak at 10:45 a.m.
He earlier announced a mortgage refinancing program and on Tuesday the White House announced new steps to help veterans.
Obama held six fundraisers, including star-studded events in Los Angeles. He gathered backers in Denver and Las Vegas, urging them to find energy for the 2012 campaign. And he coined a new slogan — "We can't wait" — to draw distinctions with congressional Republicans who oppose his $447 billion economic plan.
Storm to bring snow to Colo. mountains, Denver
DENVER (AP) — A winter storm was expected to bring up to 2 feet of snow to parts of Colorado's mountains as well as the first snow of the season for Denver.
The storm was expected to continue hitting the Front Range into Wednesday, and snow was already starting to fall in northern Colorado and near the Eisenhower Tunnel along Interstate 70 on Tuesday night.
U.S. 287 was closed from Ted's Place to Laramie, Wyo., on Tuesday night because of adverse conditions in Wyoming. Interstate 80 between Laramie and Cheyenne in Wyoming also was closed.
Denver could get between 6 and 10 inches of snow, with up to 15 inches falling in the foothills west of the city.
Mountain areas east of the Continental Divide, including near the Eisenhower Tunnel, were forecast to get the most snow. Rocky Mountain National Park could get between 1 and 2 feet.
Many trees along the Front Range still have leaves, and the snow could cause limbs to break, triggering power outages. The state's largest utility, Xcel Energy, said it's bringing in crews from Grand Junction to help with repairs, and crews from Texas could also be called on to help.
Frontier Airlines said that because of the storm, it was relaxing rules for changing flights for travelers scheduled to pass through its Denver hub Wednesday.
The Colorado Department of Transportation planned to have between 70 and 80 pieces of snow removal equipment on Denver-area highways starting Tuesday night.
The storm follows record warm weather in Denver and Colorado Springs.
The storm was expected to continue hitting the Front Range into Wednesday, and snow was already starting to fall in northern Colorado and near the Eisenhower Tunnel along Interstate 70 on Tuesday night.
U.S. 287 was closed from Ted's Place to Laramie, Wyo., on Tuesday night because of adverse conditions in Wyoming. Interstate 80 between Laramie and Cheyenne in Wyoming also was closed.
Denver could get between 6 and 10 inches of snow, with up to 15 inches falling in the foothills west of the city.
Mountain areas east of the Continental Divide, including near the Eisenhower Tunnel, were forecast to get the most snow. Rocky Mountain National Park could get between 1 and 2 feet.
Many trees along the Front Range still have leaves, and the snow could cause limbs to break, triggering power outages. The state's largest utility, Xcel Energy, said it's bringing in crews from Grand Junction to help with repairs, and crews from Texas could also be called on to help.
Frontier Airlines said that because of the storm, it was relaxing rules for changing flights for travelers scheduled to pass through its Denver hub Wednesday.
The Colorado Department of Transportation planned to have between 70 and 80 pieces of snow removal equipment on Denver-area highways starting Tuesday night.
The storm follows record warm weather in Denver and Colorado Springs.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Osier in Court Nov. 10
The Snyder man charged with an assault at the Morgan County Fair this summer goes before the judge for a preliminary hearing on November 10. Forty-six-year-old Jay Osier is free on a 75 thousand dollar bond and faces charges of assault and harassment after he got into a fight and allegedly assaulted Allen Meyer of Fort Morgan. That was on August 2 at the fairgrounds in Brush. Witnesses said Osier hit Meyer, and Meyer fell and suffered a head injury that sent him to the hospital.
Teamsters, Great West Sugar to Talk
Teamsters and Western Sugar Cooperative officials will sit down and talk about that one sticking point in the contract that has yet to be signed. Union reps say they're not in favor of the drug testing that the company wants, but company officials say its the best way to keep illicit drugs out of the workplace. The contract affects about 480 workers here in Fort Morgan and in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Teamsters in three other GW sugar plants have already accepted the contract with the random drug test provision included. Teamsters in Fort Morgan say there could still be a strike if that one issue isn't ironed out. GW says the new contract will be retro active once its signed.
Both Sides in Proposition 103
Round numbers is what the statewide ballot initiative is all about. The battle lines have been drawn over the upping of both the state income tax and state sales taxes. The vote in on next month's mail in ballot is for the 4.63 percent income tax to go to five percent and the sales tax from 2.9 percent to three percent. Proposition 103 would raise about three billion dollars over the life of the tax increases and all that would go to education, from pre-school through college. There are those on both sides of the issue talking about how raising the tax rate will cost jobs, while others say it won't.
Million-Dollar-Plus Colorado Lotto Prizes Still Unclaimed
(Denver, CO) -- Two huge Colorado Lottery prizes are still unclaimed. The September 24th winning ticket, bought at a 7-Eleven store on East Mississippi Avenue in Denver, is worth three-point-seven-million dollars. The winner of the October 15th drawing purchased his or her ticket at a Shell store on Wadsworth Boulevard in Arvada. That prize is worth one-point-nine-million dollars.
DA can use mom's words after baby's death at trial
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A judge in Boulder says statements a mother made hours after her infant son died can be admitted as evidence, if she goes on trial.
Prosecutors say Stephanie Rochester of Superior killed her son, Rylan, last year because she thought he had autism. She has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to first-degree murder and child abuse resulting in death.
Two doctors have found she's legally insane. Prosecutors have asked the Colorado Supreme Court to allow their own expert to examine Rochester to help them can decide whether to proceed to trial.
The Daily Camera reports at on Monday, victim's advocate Wendy Firth testified that shortly after Rylan's death, Rochester told her, "I killed my baby."
A judge ruled Monday that the statement could be used at trial.
Prosecutors say Stephanie Rochester of Superior killed her son, Rylan, last year because she thought he had autism. She has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to first-degree murder and child abuse resulting in death.
Two doctors have found she's legally insane. Prosecutors have asked the Colorado Supreme Court to allow their own expert to examine Rochester to help them can decide whether to proceed to trial.
The Daily Camera reports at on Monday, victim's advocate Wendy Firth testified that shortly after Rylan's death, Rochester told her, "I killed my baby."
A judge ruled Monday that the statement could be used at trial.
Couple accused of dealing meth in front of kids
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (AP) — A couple in Palisade are accused of trying to sell methamphetamine to an undercover detective while their young daughters were in the room.
Authorities allege 24-year-old Kerry Hawkins was holding her 3-month-old daughter while negotiating the sale.
Hawkins and 29-year-old Nathan Saffer face drug and child abuse charges after their arrests last week. It's unclear whether they have a lawyer.
Authorities allege 24-year-old Kerry Hawkins was holding her 3-month-old daughter while negotiating the sale.
Hawkins and 29-year-old Nathan Saffer face drug and child abuse charges after their arrests last week. It's unclear whether they have a lawyer.
Aurora police facing brutality claims
AURORA, Colo. (AP) — A man who says Aurora police attacked him when they were supposed to be helping him with a medical emergency is suing the city and three officers in federal court.
Fifty-four-year-old Rickey Burrell's lawsuit alleges Aurora police have a custom of police brutality and violating constitutional rights.
His attorney, Mari Newman, says his family called 911 on Dec. 18 because Burrell had a seizure. The Denver Post reports that in the call, police were told Burrell was combative.
The lawsuit accuses police of breaking Burrell's wrist and exacerbating his existing back problems as they handcuffed him and later took him for medical treatment.
City Attorney Charlie Richardson declined to comment on details of the incident.
Fifty-four-year-old Rickey Burrell's lawsuit alleges Aurora police have a custom of police brutality and violating constitutional rights.
His attorney, Mari Newman, says his family called 911 on Dec. 18 because Burrell had a seizure. The Denver Post reports that in the call, police were told Burrell was combative.
The lawsuit accuses police of breaking Burrell's wrist and exacerbating his existing back problems as they handcuffed him and later took him for medical treatment.
City Attorney Charlie Richardson declined to comment on details of the incident.
Canon City woman gets 90 days in jail in sex case
CANON CITY, Colo. (AP) — A Canon City woman accused of having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old boy who was later found dead of a drug overdose has been sentenced to 90 days in jail, plus 10 years to life on probation.
Thirty-year-old Brenda Harding also must register as a sex offender. The Canon City Daily Record reports she cannot have contact with anyone under the age of 18, including her two children, until a risk assessment can be completed.
Harding pleaded guilty in August to sexual assault on a child.
The victim died in April in what authorities said was a suicide.
At Harding's sentencing hearing Monday, Judge Julie G. Marshall noted she was not sentencing Harding for the boy's death.
Thirty-year-old Brenda Harding also must register as a sex offender. The Canon City Daily Record reports she cannot have contact with anyone under the age of 18, including her two children, until a risk assessment can be completed.
Harding pleaded guilty in August to sexual assault on a child.
The victim died in April in what authorities said was a suicide.
At Harding's sentencing hearing Monday, Judge Julie G. Marshall noted she was not sentencing Harding for the boy's death.
Teenager rescued from mineshaft near Golden
GOLDEN, Colo. (AP) — A teen who got stuck on a ledge in a mineshaft near Golden has been rescued.
KUSA-TV in Denver reports the boy and a friend were hiking in the mineshaft Monday evening when some ground gave way and some rocks were displaced. The friend got out, but the teen was stuck on the ledge. Jefferson County sheriff's officials say the teen wasn't hurt but couldn't get out on his own.
A mine rescue team helped reach the trapped teen after about two hours.
Sheriff's officials say they will review whether trespassing charges are warranted and investigate ways to prevent others from entering the mineshaft in the future.
KUSA-TV in Denver reports the boy and a friend were hiking in the mineshaft Monday evening when some ground gave way and some rocks were displaced. The friend got out, but the teen was stuck on the ledge. Jefferson County sheriff's officials say the teen wasn't hurt but couldn't get out on his own.
A mine rescue team helped reach the trapped teen after about two hours.
Sheriff's officials say they will review whether trespassing charges are warranted and investigate ways to prevent others from entering the mineshaft in the future.
or Obama, a campaign money swing with star power
Before President Obama comes to Denver today,
he'll be in San Francisco for a performance by folk rock singer-songwriter Jack Johnson. Yesterday, he was in Los Angeles rubbing elbows with the stars. Yesterday, the president was to tape an appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" on Tuesday, his second as sitting president and fourth appearance overall. Obama's Monday evening fundraisers featured actor Will Smith and basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson. The president also mingled with Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas. Celebrities are a tried and true fundraising draw, particularly for Democratic presidents. Both the president and the stars bask in their reflected fame and the endorsement of stars can be a useful asset.
he'll be in San Francisco for a performance by folk rock singer-songwriter Jack Johnson. Yesterday, he was in Los Angeles rubbing elbows with the stars. Yesterday, the president was to tape an appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" on Tuesday, his second as sitting president and fourth appearance overall. Obama's Monday evening fundraisers featured actor Will Smith and basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson. The president also mingled with Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas. Celebrities are a tried and true fundraising draw, particularly for Democratic presidents. Both the president and the stars bask in their reflected fame and the endorsement of stars can be a useful asset.
Don't miss Downtown Fort Morgan's Chills and Thrills Halloween Festival!
The City is one of the sponsors of this year's Chills and Thrills Halloween Festival taking place in downtown Fort Morgan October 22nd to October 29th. The Festival includes: Trick or Treat Street, Games, Outhouse Races, Movies, Entertainment, Contests, prizes and much more! For an updated events schedule, call the Chamber of Commerce at (970) 867-6702.
Monday, October 24, 2011
No Strike at Western Sugar Coop
There was no strike at Western sugar Cooperative, with plants in Fort Morgan and Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Teamsters Local 455 asked that cooperative officials sit down and talk with them on the one sticking point that's keeping a contract from being signed. The union says it has issues with random drug testing, while cooperative officials say its the best way to keep everyone in the company safe. Western Sugar has extended the terms of the former contract and says the new contract, once its signed, will be honored retroactively.
Robo-Calls Claim to be from Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo Bank in Sterling got lots of calls late last week from people in town who said they got robo-calls claiming to be from Wells Fargo. Some local officials even shared the information with the FBI and now the FBI says its what's happening with debit card customers: They're getting the calls saying their accounts have been compromised and that's where the scam begins: The automated phone call tells the customer to enter his or her debit card number and the expiration date. Then it asks for Customer Verification Value Code on the back of the card, and the pin. Now, whoever it is has all your info to spend your money. Law enforcement will tell you to hang up on the robo-calls, and check with your bank if you believe there's a problem.
FDIC Shutters 84th Bank Of 2011, KC Bank Takes Over
(Washington, DC) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has been forced to close down four more banks, bringing the number of failures to 84 so far this year. The agency says the 40-branch Community Banks of Colorado was shuttered Friday by the Federal Reserve's board of governors. All deposits and assets will be assumed by Bank Midwest of Kansas City, Missouri.
House Panel Probing Deadly Cantaloupes
(Washington, DC) -- A U.S. House panel is investigating a deadly food poisoning outbreak linked to cantaloupes. The fruit came from a farm in Colorado. The House Energy and Commerce Committee is seeking information from Jensen Farms about what may have caused the outbreak of listeria. Preliminarily, the Food and Drug Administration has cited unsanitary conditions as a likely cause. The outbreak killed more than two dozen people and made another 123 people sick. The House panel is also seeking information from the Centers for Disease Control about how the outbreak could have been prevented.
Hispanic voters: Stick with Obama or go with GOP?
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Hispanic voters are facing a choice in the 2012 presidential election.
They can continue supporting President Barack Obama despite being hurt by the economic downturn. Or they can turn to Republicans at a time when many of the GOP presidential candidates have taken a hard line on immigration.
Obama begins a three-day visit to Western states today. He'll try to rally support for his jobs agenda in a state with the nation's highest unemployment rate.
On immigration, some GOP candidates have discussed a fence along the U.S. border with Mexico and criticized each other for programs that help illegal immigrants.
Obama won about two-thirds of Hispanic voters in 2008, but Republican groups are courting Latinos in hopes of reducing his advantage.
They can continue supporting President Barack Obama despite being hurt by the economic downturn. Or they can turn to Republicans at a time when many of the GOP presidential candidates have taken a hard line on immigration.
Obama begins a three-day visit to Western states today. He'll try to rally support for his jobs agenda in a state with the nation's highest unemployment rate.
On immigration, some GOP candidates have discussed a fence along the U.S. border with Mexico and criticized each other for programs that help illegal immigrants.
Obama won about two-thirds of Hispanic voters in 2008, but Republican groups are courting Latinos in hopes of reducing his advantage.
Police warn of northern Colo. credit card scam
LOVELAND, Colo. (AP) — Loveland police say they've received hundreds of calls from people who say their credit cards are being used fraudulently.
Police say they've received 600 complaints from people recently who say their cards have been used across the country and in England, Canada and South Africa. KMGT-TV reports that Weld and Larimer counties have also reported increases in phishing scams.
Loveland Police Sgt. Mike Halloran says the fraudulent charges appear to be happening in places outside of Colorado. Authorities are warning people to be wary of callers claiming to be with a bank asking for account information.
Police say they've received 600 complaints from people recently who say their cards have been used across the country and in England, Canada and South Africa. KMGT-TV reports that Weld and Larimer counties have also reported increases in phishing scams.
Loveland Police Sgt. Mike Halloran says the fraudulent charges appear to be happening in places outside of Colorado. Authorities are warning people to be wary of callers claiming to be with a bank asking for account information.
Basalt resident challenging grocery bag fee
BASALT, Colo. (AP) — A Basalt resident is gathering signatures to try to overturn a town ordinance imposing a 20-cent fee on paper and plastic grocery bags.
Council members approved the fee last month and the measure is scheduled to go into effect in May. Resident Roy Chorbajian tells The Aspen Times he believes people are tired of government regulation.
Chorbajian started collecting signatures Saturday. He has 90 days to collect signatures from 231 registered Basalt voters. The question of whether to rescind the ordinance could go to voters in April or in a special election if Chorbajian gets enough signatures.
Council members approved the fee last month and the measure is scheduled to go into effect in May. Resident Roy Chorbajian tells The Aspen Times he believes people are tired of government regulation.
Chorbajian started collecting signatures Saturday. He has 90 days to collect signatures from 231 registered Basalt voters. The question of whether to rescind the ordinance could go to voters in April or in a special election if Chorbajian gets enough signatures.
Friday, October 21, 2011
DOC: Incident at SCF "Minor"
Colorado Department of Corrections says a couple of inmates in Unit 1 at the Sterling Correctional Facility had minor injuries after a fight at the facility on Wednesday. DOC said in a news release that the incident started around 9:15 a.m. and was under control within a few minutes. Reports indicate that one staffer went to Sterling Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. Some 40 inmates were involved in the incident, and they too had minor injuries. They were treated at SCF and the state is investigating exactly what caused the disturbance.
Becker Named 2011 Legislator of the Year
The State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education has named Republican
State Representative Jon Becker of Fort Morgan as the 2011 Legislator of the Year. The presentation was at Morgan Community College, where students there talked about how they have succeeded at the college. Becker has long supported the community college model, calling it a "vehicle to help retool our economy". As he received the award, Becker again reiterated his support for community colleges, keeping in mind that he too started at MCC.
State Representative Jon Becker of Fort Morgan as the 2011 Legislator of the Year. The presentation was at Morgan Community College, where students there talked about how they have succeeded at the college. Becker has long supported the community college model, calling it a "vehicle to help retool our economy". As he received the award, Becker again reiterated his support for community colleges, keeping in mind that he too started at MCC.
Library Launch of New Computer Training Center
Wednesday, October 26
Fort Morgan Library and Museum Services and its partners, OneMorgan County and Lutheran Family Services, plan a celebration later this month to launch the new Public Computer Training Center at the Library. The computer center is one of 76 throughout the state and was made possible by the Colorado State Library through federal funds and a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation grant. OneMorgan County and Lutheran Family Services also provided funding.
Fort Morgan Library and Museum Services and its partners, OneMorgan County and Lutheran Family Services, plan a celebration later this month to launch the new Public Computer Training Center at the Library. The computer center is one of 76 throughout the state and was made possible by the Colorado State Library through federal funds and a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation grant. OneMorgan County and Lutheran Family Services also provided funding.
Don't miss Downtown Fort Morgan's Chills and Thrills Halloween Festival!
The City is one of the sponsors of this year's Chills and Thrills Halloween Festival taking place in downtown Fort Morgan October 22nd to October 29th. The Festival includes: Trick or Treat Street, Games, Outhouse Races, Movies, Entertainment, Contests, prizes and much more! Print the events schedule below.
http://www.cityoffortmorgan.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=1401
http://www.cityoffortmorgan.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=1401
Road Closure Coming Up
Contractors will be installing new water/fire lines to support the new Federal Credit Union
on East Railroad Avenue near the intersection of Railroad and Sherman Street on Tuesday,
October 25, 2011. During construction, the westbound lanes of Railroad Avenue will be closed to through traffic. Traffic control flaggers will be directing westbound and eastbound traffic in the area. Delays are to be expected. Please plan accordingly and use alternative routes.
on East Railroad Avenue near the intersection of Railroad and Sherman Street on Tuesday,
October 25, 2011. During construction, the westbound lanes of Railroad Avenue will be closed to through traffic. Traffic control flaggers will be directing westbound and eastbound traffic in the area. Delays are to be expected. Please plan accordingly and use alternative routes.
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Fort Morgan, Colorado, intends to consider and make certain changes affecting customers receiving Gas and/or Electric Service from the City of Fort Morgan by adopting revisions to the Schedule of Rates and Regulations to become effective with the first billing on or after November 1, 2011.
The schedule of proposed rates and present rates are available for inspection Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the office of the City Clerk of Fort Morgan, Colorado, at 110 Main Street, Fort Morgan, Colorado. A Public Hearing will be convened by the City Council with respect to the foregoing proposed changes on November 15, 2011, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. at City Hall (same address listed above). Any utility customer receiving service may appear at the hearing, personally or through counsel, for the purpose of providing testimony or comment regarding the proposed new schedule. Rules of procedure governing the Public Hearing will be made available to affected customers at City Hall.
CITY OF FORT MORGAN, COLORADO
By: /s/ John J. Brennan
City Clerk
Date of Notice: October 12, 2011
The schedule of proposed rates and present rates are available for inspection Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the office of the City Clerk of Fort Morgan, Colorado, at 110 Main Street, Fort Morgan, Colorado. A Public Hearing will be convened by the City Council with respect to the foregoing proposed changes on November 15, 2011, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. at City Hall (same address listed above). Any utility customer receiving service may appear at the hearing, personally or through counsel, for the purpose of providing testimony or comment regarding the proposed new schedule. Rules of procedure governing the Public Hearing will be made available to affected customers at City Hall.
CITY OF FORT MORGAN, COLORADO
By: /s/ John J. Brennan
City Clerk
Date of Notice: October 12, 2011
Jensen Onion Farm in Fort Morgan is Not Jensen Farms in Holly
In the same way Apple does not make PCs, Jensen Onion Farm in Fort Morgan does not grow cantaloupes. KUSA reports that the local farm has received lots of calls about the safety of their cantaloupes, which they do not grow. Merry Jensen told the TV station that the deadly listeria outbreak has caused her farm to get calls about the safety of their cantaloupes. She's quick to tell callers that they're not at all related, and Holly is a four hour drive from Fort Morgan. But Merry Jensen said her family feels for the victims of the listeria outbreak and for Eric Jensen and his family.
List Of Top Bizarre Art Displays Includes DIA's Blue Horse
(Denver, CO) -- DIA's blue horse sculpture is one of the Top Five bizarre public art pieces in America. Luis Jimenez's "Mustang" was ranked Number Three on the list compiled by Yahoo! News. Crown Fountain in Chicago and Bus Home in Ventura, California, were listed first and second, respectively.
Colorado St University to study listeria outbreak
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — A Colorado State University team will research how listeria bacteria got from a Colorado cantaloupe farm to consumers' tables, and look for ways to prevent a repeat.
The university said Thursday the team will include experts in farming practices, food-handling practices and food-borne pathogens.
Federal officials have traced a deadly listeria outbreak to the Jensen Farms packing facility in Colorado. The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that conditions at the plant were probably to blame for the outbreak, which has killed 25 and sickened 98.
Lawrence Goodridge, food microbiologist in CSU's College of Agricultural Sciences, says the FDA findings show that cantaloupe growers need more science-based knowledge to help protect against listeria.
The university said Thursday the team will include experts in farming practices, food-handling practices and food-borne pathogens.
Federal officials have traced a deadly listeria outbreak to the Jensen Farms packing facility in Colorado. The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that conditions at the plant were probably to blame for the outbreak, which has killed 25 and sickened 98.
Lawrence Goodridge, food microbiologist in CSU's College of Agricultural Sciences, says the FDA findings show that cantaloupe growers need more science-based knowledge to help protect against listeria.
Bush promotes education initiative in Denver
DENVER (AP) — Former President George W. Bush says he continues to have a "great passion" for education even though he considers himself to only be an observer in politics these days.
Bush made the remarks Thursday morning in Denver after meeting with Mayor Michael Hancock and local education leaders at Get Smart Schools, a nonprofit Colorado group that trains principals for innovation in charter schools. The group is joining a national network that is part of an initiative by the Bush Institute's Alliance to Reform Education Leadership.
The initiative seeks to change how principals are recruited, trained, and evaluated.
Bush says that an "excellent school must first have an excellent leader."
Get Smart Schools is one of 16 organizations working with the Bush Institute.
Bush made the remarks Thursday morning in Denver after meeting with Mayor Michael Hancock and local education leaders at Get Smart Schools, a nonprofit Colorado group that trains principals for innovation in charter schools. The group is joining a national network that is part of an initiative by the Bush Institute's Alliance to Reform Education Leadership.
The initiative seeks to change how principals are recruited, trained, and evaluated.
Bush says that an "excellent school must first have an excellent leader."
Get Smart Schools is one of 16 organizations working with the Bush Institute.
Woman suing after dying dog left under table
DENVER (AP) — A woman is suing a cleaning company after the family's dog was hit by a car and left under a dining table.
Robin Lohre says she hired Posh Maids for a cleaning job and left for an errand. Lohre says she told the maids not to let the dog out of the house.
Lohre says when she returned home with her 6-year-old daughter, the two found the dog dead underneath the dining room table.
According to The Denver Post, Lohre called the company and was told that the dog was hit by a car and it was still alive when employees put it underneath the table.
The lawsuit filed in Denver claims negligence and emotional distress.
The company said Thursday it will respond later to the lawsuit.
Robin Lohre says she hired Posh Maids for a cleaning job and left for an errand. Lohre says she told the maids not to let the dog out of the house.
Lohre says when she returned home with her 6-year-old daughter, the two found the dog dead underneath the dining room table.
According to The Denver Post, Lohre called the company and was told that the dog was hit by a car and it was still alive when employees put it underneath the table.
The lawsuit filed in Denver claims negligence and emotional distress.
The company said Thursday it will respond later to the lawsuit.
Police: Boy locked in filthy room, fed once a day
GREELEY, Colo. (AP) - Police in Colorado say a 14-year-old boy with mental problems was locked in a filthy room, fed once a day and allowed out just three times a day.
The Greeley Tribune reported Thursday the boy's mother and boyfriend were arrested last month after a neighbor in the town of Erie told police he found the frightened boy hiding under his porch.
Prosecutors say the boy's mother, 36-year-old Amanda Jolliff, and her boyfriend, 31-year-old Richard Smith, face charges of false imprisonment, child abuse and neglect.
How long the boy was allegedly in the room is unknown.
Police say he told investigators he was pulled from public school for home-schooling in 2008 but received no instruction.
The Greeley Tribune reported Thursday the boy's mother and boyfriend were arrested last month after a neighbor in the town of Erie told police he found the frightened boy hiding under his porch.
Prosecutors say the boy's mother, 36-year-old Amanda Jolliff, and her boyfriend, 31-year-old Richard Smith, face charges of false imprisonment, child abuse and neglect.
How long the boy was allegedly in the room is unknown.
Police say he told investigators he was pulled from public school for home-schooling in 2008 but received no instruction.
Farm That Produced Tainted Cantaloupes Was Rated Highly By Auditor
(Washington, DC) -- A third-party auditor is being singled out for failing to criticize dangerous changes made to cantaloupe operations at Jensen Farms this summer. BioFood Safety reportedly noted the changes, but still gave the Colorado farm top marks. The FDA reports listeria from tainted cantaloupes has now killed 25 people nationwide.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Remains Identified
The Morgan County Coroner says remains found on February 4 of this year have now been positively identified as those of Robert A Wheeler. They were found in Bijoux Creek, northeast of Wiggins. Wheeling was from Morgan County and lived in several places here. His family is in Michigan, and assisted the coroner with DNA to positively identify him. The coroner also says that because of the condition of the remains, it's impossible to tell how Wheeling died. Sheriff's investigators have worked with the coroner over the past several months to identify the remains.
SFC on Locakdown Yesterday
The Colorado Department of Corrections is trying to figure out what caused some 40 prisoneers at the Sterling Correctional Facility to get into a fight, causing a lockdown at the facility yesterday. Department of Corrections spokeswoman Katherine Sanguinetti said a staffer at SFC suffered minor injuries and went to the hospital for treatment. Several inmates were also treated for injuries at the prison. The lockdown at SFC went on into yesterday afternoon.
Denver One Of Top 20 Cities For Trick-Or-Treaters
(Denver, CO) -- Denver is one of the top 20 cities for trick-or-treaters. The real estate website Zillow announced that Denver is Number 16 on its 2011 list. The rankings are based on home values and local crime data, along with the walkability and density of a neighborhood.
Auraria Campus To Host Director Michael Moore
(Denver, CO) -- Director Michael Moore will be coming to Denver's Auraria Campus on November 3rd. The controversial documentary filmmaker will discuss his latest book "Here Comes Trouble" at a free event that's open to the public. Moore is scheduled to appear at the Tivoli Student Union Turnhalle at 2:30 p.m.
Suspected Beer Thief Apprehended Minutes After Incident
(Glenwood Springs, CO) -- Police in Glenwood Springs are saying they caught a suspected beer thief after noticing a rolled-up dollar bill in his car. A staff member at the Bayou Cajun Restaurant reported the suspect drove off with a case of beer from the back door area early Sunday. Minutes later, he was arrested when an officer noticed the dollar bill and the case of beer.
Body Found On Sandbar In Boulder Creek Near CU
(Boulder, CO) -- Boulder police are investigating the body of a white adult male found in Boulder Creek. The body was reportedly found yesterday morning on a sandbar near Folsom Street and Arapahoe Avenue. A woman passing by the University of Colorado football practice fields reported the body.
Man, Foster Kids Remembered For Service At Vigil
(Eads, CO) -- An eastern Colorado man is being remembered for his service after he and his five foster kids were killed in a van crash.
"I cannot think of one person or one family who has blesses and touched as many lives as the Mitchell's have, when I think of shining examples of God's love."
During a vigil this week in Eads, six trees were planted in memory of Howard Mitchell and his children. The crash is still under investigation, but one of Mitchell's arteries was almost completely blocked.
"I cannot think of one person or one family who has blesses and touched as many lives as the Mitchell's have, when I think of shining examples of God's love."
During a vigil this week in Eads, six trees were planted in memory of Howard Mitchell and his children. The crash is still under investigation, but one of Mitchell's arteries was almost completely blocked.
Colorado cantaloupe farmers fear outbreak fallout
DENVER (AP) — Colorado's cantaloupe farmers say they fear it will take time for people to feel safe eating Rocky Ford melons because of the deadly listeria outbreak linked to one farm.
The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that melons at Jensen Farms in Holly were likely contaminated in a packing house that was using secondhand equipment.
In Rocky Ford, farmer Eric Hanagan fears cantaloupe sales will drop next year, and he plans to plant about 50 percent less.
But he says he isn't angry at Jensen Farms, and he notes that buying used equipment from other farms is common practice.
State Agriculture Commissioner John Salazar says his department will work to reassure consumers about Colorado cantaloupe and to develop best practices for farmers for packing.
The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that melons at Jensen Farms in Holly were likely contaminated in a packing house that was using secondhand equipment.
In Rocky Ford, farmer Eric Hanagan fears cantaloupe sales will drop next year, and he plans to plant about 50 percent less.
But he says he isn't angry at Jensen Farms, and he notes that buying used equipment from other farms is common practice.
State Agriculture Commissioner John Salazar says his department will work to reassure consumers about Colorado cantaloupe and to develop best practices for farmers for packing.
Family believes Colorado foster dad had heart attack
(DENVER (AP) — A close family friend says relatives suspect a Colorado sheriff's deputy who ran a group home for adopted and foster children suffered a heart attack just before a crash that killed him and five children last week.
Pastor Eric Kilborn said Wednesday that an autopsy on 57-year-old Howard Mitchell showed a major blockage of blood to his heart, leading the family to believe he had a heart-related medical crisis before his van collided with an empty cattle trailer on a rural highway.
Seven other children in Mitchell's van were injured in the crash.
Cheyenne County Coroner Susan Kern didn't immediately return messages Wednesday seeking an official cause of death for Mitchell, who was a sheriff's deputy in the same county.
In addition to Howard Mitchell, the crash killed 11-year-old Austyn Atkinson; 10-year-olds Tony Mitchell and Tayla Mitchell; 13-year-old Andy Dawson; and 17-year-old Jeremy Franks.
A funeral service is planned for Friday.
Pastor Eric Kilborn said Wednesday that an autopsy on 57-year-old Howard Mitchell showed a major blockage of blood to his heart, leading the family to believe he had a heart-related medical crisis before his van collided with an empty cattle trailer on a rural highway.
Seven other children in Mitchell's van were injured in the crash.
Cheyenne County Coroner Susan Kern didn't immediately return messages Wednesday seeking an official cause of death for Mitchell, who was a sheriff's deputy in the same county.
In addition to Howard Mitchell, the crash killed 11-year-old Austyn Atkinson; 10-year-olds Tony Mitchell and Tayla Mitchell; 13-year-old Andy Dawson; and 17-year-old Jeremy Franks.
A funeral service is planned for Friday.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Brush Defers to Fort Morgan
Nobody was hurt, but two men who were doing brick work on Rankin Presbyterian Church got stuck up in the air when the lift they were using failed in the up position. Brush volunteer firefighters were called, but deferred to Fort Morgan Volunteer firefighters since they have a tower truck that was up to the challenge and the men were brought safely to the ground.
RE-1 Valley BOE For Prop 103
Proposition 103 would raise money for education in Colorado from preschool through college by temporarily raising sales tax, income tax and use tax. The RE-1 Valley Board of Education supports Proposition 103 and said so through a unanimous vote at its meeting on Monday. Superintendent Betty Summers said within the five years of the tax increases, its hoped the economy would turn positive. She also said the only downside is that its not known how the revenue from the tax increases will be divided.
Hundreds Of Colorado Medical Marijuana Workers Join Union
(Wheat Ridge, CO) -- Officials are saying hundreds of Colorado medical marijuana workers have joined the United Food and Commercial Workers Union. About 25-thousand people are members of the union's Colorado chapter. The medical cannabis retail industry reportedly employs more than eight-thousand workers.
Colo. house cat gets close look at mountain lion
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Gail Loveman's 11-year-old cat named Zeus usually stands tall and hisses when he sees a squirrel outside his owner's home. He wasn't as much of a tough guy when the animal on the other side of the glass was a mountain lion.
Loveman tells The Denver Post the encounter lasted about five minutes before the mountain lion wandered off from her house near the foothills west of Boulder.
Loveman says she was in her home office last Thursday when she heard a noise and turned to see the mountain lion on the porch.
Zeus entered the room and walked to the sliding glass door for a closer look while Loveman snapped photos.
Loveman went upstairs and spotted a second mountain lion. She says both jumped a fence and left.
Loveman tells The Denver Post the encounter lasted about five minutes before the mountain lion wandered off from her house near the foothills west of Boulder.
Loveman says she was in her home office last Thursday when she heard a noise and turned to see the mountain lion on the porch.
Zeus entered the room and walked to the sliding glass door for a closer look while Loveman snapped photos.
Loveman went upstairs and spotted a second mountain lion. She says both jumped a fence and left.
School discipline changes move forward in Colorado
DENVER (AP) — Colorado lawmakers are moving forward with proposed changes to post-Columbine school disciplinary policies to try to give education officials more discretion over expulsions and police referrals.
A committee gave preliminary approval to a proposal that would be introduced when the Legislature meets in the spring. The proposal would eliminate zero-tolerance policies that lawmakers say have led to students being needlessly criminalized for actions that previously landed them in the principal's office.
Lawmakers say students are now being referred to police for bringing a wooden replica of a rifle to school or for inadvertently having a butter knife in their backpack.
The strict policies arose after the 1999 Columbine High School shootings where two students killed 13 people and then themselves.
A different committee of lawmakers needs to approve the bill before it is introduced.
A committee gave preliminary approval to a proposal that would be introduced when the Legislature meets in the spring. The proposal would eliminate zero-tolerance policies that lawmakers say have led to students being needlessly criminalized for actions that previously landed them in the principal's office.
Lawmakers say students are now being referred to police for bringing a wooden replica of a rifle to school or for inadvertently having a butter knife in their backpack.
The strict policies arose after the 1999 Columbine High School shootings where two students killed 13 people and then themselves.
A different committee of lawmakers needs to approve the bill before it is introduced.
25 now dead in listeria outbreak in cantaloupe
WASHINGTON (AP) — Twenty-five deaths in 12 states are now linked to listeria in cantaloupe, the deadliest known outbreak of foodborne illness in the U.S. in more than 25 years.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Tuesday that 123 people have been sickened, including those who died.
The tainted Colorado cantaloupes should be off store shelves by now. But the number of illnesses may continue to grow, as the symptoms of listeria can take up to two months to appear.
The CDC on Tuesday confirmed a sixth death in Colorado and a second in New York. Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming have also reported deaths.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Tuesday that 123 people have been sickened, including those who died.
The tainted Colorado cantaloupes should be off store shelves by now. But the number of illnesses may continue to grow, as the symptoms of listeria can take up to two months to appear.
The CDC on Tuesday confirmed a sixth death in Colorado and a second in New York. Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming have also reported deaths.
Meningitis patient helped out at child-care center
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Health officials say a Colorado woman with meningococcal meningitis was a volunteer at a child-care center, but none of the children show any symptoms of the illness.
The Boulder County Health Department said Tuesday that 13 families were advised to have their children get antibiotics. The families were given prescriptions but officials couldn't say how many followed through.
The 21-year-old woman diagnosed with the disease is a junior at the University of Colorado who lives off campus. She is hospitalized but officials expect her to be released this week.
She was diagnosed Friday. Authorities say no other current cases have been diagnosed in Colorado.
The bacteria causes an infection of the tissue surround the brain and spinal cord.
The Boulder County Health Department said Tuesday that 13 families were advised to have their children get antibiotics. The families were given prescriptions but officials couldn't say how many followed through.
The 21-year-old woman diagnosed with the disease is a junior at the University of Colorado who lives off campus. She is hospitalized but officials expect her to be released this week.
She was diagnosed Friday. Authorities say no other current cases have been diagnosed in Colorado.
The bacteria causes an infection of the tissue surround the brain and spinal cord.
National Drug Take Back Day
The Fort Morgan Police Department is participating in the National Drug Take Back being held on October 29, 2011. This event will be held at Colorado Plains Medical Center (1000 Lincoln St.) in the North parking lot from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. Residents can take this opportunity to properly dispose of unused or unwanted medications they may have around their home, at no cost!
2011 Leaf Pick Up Program Sunday, October 30
The City's Leaf Pick Up Program will run from October 30th through November 27th this year. Please place leaves two feet away from the curb in established piles. Please do not park cars near piles of place tree limbs or other items in the streets.
CDOT Unveils New Snow Removal Equipment for a Portion of the I-76 Corridor
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) recently unveiled its newest piece of snow removal equipment that will be used to help maintenance crews clear snow and ice from I-76 between Wiggins and Atwood.
The new tow plow is a trailer pulled by the plow truck that swings out to the side and can plow snow and apply de-icer (see video at http://tinyurl.com/445tpcw).
“We will be able to plow and/or de-ice 24 feet or two lanes of the Interstate with one snow plow truck and one employee with a second truck clearing the shoulders,” said CDOT Maintenance Supervisor Wes Templeton. “With only two trucks working the Interstate rather than three, we will have an extra truck for other highways in the area, ultimately increasing our coverage and improving safety.”
When the tow plow is in use, both lanes of I-76 will be blocked and the snow plow will be traveling at 35 MPH. Both the snow plow and tow plow will be equipped with flashing lights and motorists should be prepared for slower travel speeds. Motorists should also stay far back from the plow as it is the safest spot with a clear roadway and increased traction.
This is the first tow plow to be used in the state by CDOT and there are hopes to expand its fleet of tow plows along I-76 if it performs well this winter. The optimal use for a tow plow is on a multi-lane divided highway where traffic is free-flowing.
In addition to the tow plow, CDOT has 41 pieces of snow removal equipment to combat snow and ice along 1,985 lane miles of highway in Morgan, Washington and Yuma counties. Of the 41 pieces, 29 are snow plows used to apply solid and liquid de-icers. There are also nine loaders and three motor graders for the removal of heavy or large amounts of snow.
“While the tow plow will help our crews immensely, we still need to use a variety of other equipment and products to clear the highways,” added Templeton. “In addition, our crews will work 12-hour shifts day and night and on holidays and weekends until our highways are clear of snow and ice.”
CDOT always treats and plows primary roads first such as I-76 and US 34. Secondary routes include State Highway (SH ) 52, SH 59, SH 61, SH 63, SH 71, SH 144 and US 385. Highway segments with an annual average daily traffic (AADT) count less than 1,000 will experience limited snow removal operations. For the most part, CDOT crews will maintain these highway 14-hours a day, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (exceptions may be granted for school bus routes, highway segments with high accident rates or hospital/emergency routes). To see a complete list of highways with limited plow coverage, visit www.coloradodot.info/travel/winter-driving.
To help maintenance crews combat the snow and ice, CDOT will continue to use liquid de-icers, solid de-icers, and a sand/salt mixture. The two main types of liquid de-icers that will be used this winter are magnesium chloride and cold temperature magnesium chloride. Magnesium chloride* is effective at pavement temperatures above 16 degrees Fahrenheit while cold temperature modified magnesium chloride* is effective for pavement temperatures below 16 degrees Fahrenheit. Trucks are equipped with infrared sensors to monitor ambient and pavement temperatures throughout a storm.
The two types of solid de-icers that will be used are Ice Slicer and North American Salt. Both are granular salts mixed with magnesium chloride. Ice Slicer is primarily used for pavement temperatures 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below and may be mixed with sand to provide more traction. North American Salt is primarily used for pavement temperatures above 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
While CDOT is prepared for the winter ahead, it is also important for motorists to be prepared. CDOT strongly encourages motorists to plan ahead by visiting www.cotrip.org or by calling 511 anywhere in Colorado. Current road and weather conditions are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the Web and phone.
You can also sign up for e-mail and text message alerts by visiting www.coloradodot.info and clicking on the cell phone icon in the upper right corner under the search function. You can then subscribe to any of the lists free of charge (standard text message rates do apply).
Here are a few winter driving tips to remember:
Be sure to carry plenty of windshield wiper fluid as liquid de-icers may stick to your windshield.
Let the snowplow drivers do their jobs by giving them extra room and don’t pass on the right.
Slow down! Even roads that have been treated with liquid de-icers may be slippery.
Be prepared. Have a scraper, snow brush, coat, hat, gloves, blanket, first aid kit, flashlight, tire chains, matches and nonperishable food in your car.
Make sure your tires have good tread.
**Snow Removal Products:
Magnesium Chloride in solutions up to 30% - Effective for use down to 16 degrees Fahrenheit pavement surface temperature.
Cold Temperature Modified Magnesium Chloride in solutions up to 27% magnesium chloride - Used when surface temperatures fall below approximately 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Products meeting this description have a corn byproduct additive that greatly lowers the freezing point of magnesium chloride.
Ice Slicer and North American Salt - A solid product that is mainly sodium chloride with small amounts of other materials that help this product to work at lower temperatures than pure sodium chloride. It is used to melt ice pack at curves and intersections and other spot locations that make it difficult to de-ice with liquids.
The new tow plow is a trailer pulled by the plow truck that swings out to the side and can plow snow and apply de-icer (see video at http://tinyurl.com/445tpcw).
“We will be able to plow and/or de-ice 24 feet or two lanes of the Interstate with one snow plow truck and one employee with a second truck clearing the shoulders,” said CDOT Maintenance Supervisor Wes Templeton. “With only two trucks working the Interstate rather than three, we will have an extra truck for other highways in the area, ultimately increasing our coverage and improving safety.”
When the tow plow is in use, both lanes of I-76 will be blocked and the snow plow will be traveling at 35 MPH. Both the snow plow and tow plow will be equipped with flashing lights and motorists should be prepared for slower travel speeds. Motorists should also stay far back from the plow as it is the safest spot with a clear roadway and increased traction.
This is the first tow plow to be used in the state by CDOT and there are hopes to expand its fleet of tow plows along I-76 if it performs well this winter. The optimal use for a tow plow is on a multi-lane divided highway where traffic is free-flowing.
In addition to the tow plow, CDOT has 41 pieces of snow removal equipment to combat snow and ice along 1,985 lane miles of highway in Morgan, Washington and Yuma counties. Of the 41 pieces, 29 are snow plows used to apply solid and liquid de-icers. There are also nine loaders and three motor graders for the removal of heavy or large amounts of snow.
“While the tow plow will help our crews immensely, we still need to use a variety of other equipment and products to clear the highways,” added Templeton. “In addition, our crews will work 12-hour shifts day and night and on holidays and weekends until our highways are clear of snow and ice.”
CDOT always treats and plows primary roads first such as I-76 and US 34. Secondary routes include State Highway (SH ) 52, SH 59, SH 61, SH 63, SH 71, SH 144 and US 385. Highway segments with an annual average daily traffic (AADT) count less than 1,000 will experience limited snow removal operations. For the most part, CDOT crews will maintain these highway 14-hours a day, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (exceptions may be granted for school bus routes, highway segments with high accident rates or hospital/emergency routes). To see a complete list of highways with limited plow coverage, visit www.coloradodot.info/travel/winter-driving.
To help maintenance crews combat the snow and ice, CDOT will continue to use liquid de-icers, solid de-icers, and a sand/salt mixture. The two main types of liquid de-icers that will be used this winter are magnesium chloride and cold temperature magnesium chloride. Magnesium chloride* is effective at pavement temperatures above 16 degrees Fahrenheit while cold temperature modified magnesium chloride* is effective for pavement temperatures below 16 degrees Fahrenheit. Trucks are equipped with infrared sensors to monitor ambient and pavement temperatures throughout a storm.
The two types of solid de-icers that will be used are Ice Slicer and North American Salt. Both are granular salts mixed with magnesium chloride. Ice Slicer is primarily used for pavement temperatures 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below and may be mixed with sand to provide more traction. North American Salt is primarily used for pavement temperatures above 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
While CDOT is prepared for the winter ahead, it is also important for motorists to be prepared. CDOT strongly encourages motorists to plan ahead by visiting www.cotrip.org or by calling 511 anywhere in Colorado. Current road and weather conditions are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the Web and phone.
You can also sign up for e-mail and text message alerts by visiting www.coloradodot.info and clicking on the cell phone icon in the upper right corner under the search function. You can then subscribe to any of the lists free of charge (standard text message rates do apply).
Here are a few winter driving tips to remember:
Be sure to carry plenty of windshield wiper fluid as liquid de-icers may stick to your windshield.
Let the snowplow drivers do their jobs by giving them extra room and don’t pass on the right.
Slow down! Even roads that have been treated with liquid de-icers may be slippery.
Be prepared. Have a scraper, snow brush, coat, hat, gloves, blanket, first aid kit, flashlight, tire chains, matches and nonperishable food in your car.
Make sure your tires have good tread.
**Snow Removal Products:
Magnesium Chloride in solutions up to 30% - Effective for use down to 16 degrees Fahrenheit pavement surface temperature.
Cold Temperature Modified Magnesium Chloride in solutions up to 27% magnesium chloride - Used when surface temperatures fall below approximately 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Products meeting this description have a corn byproduct additive that greatly lowers the freezing point of magnesium chloride.
Ice Slicer and North American Salt - A solid product that is mainly sodium chloride with small amounts of other materials that help this product to work at lower temperatures than pure sodium chloride. It is used to melt ice pack at curves and intersections and other spot locations that make it difficult to de-ice with liquids.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Sterling City Budget Open to Public
Sterling's budget will be available for the public to comment on until October 25, and City Manager Joe Kiolbasa said that while taxes are up, revenues are down, and part of that is because the city has lost some retail business this year. The Sterling city budget has to be approved by December 10.
2012 FM Budget Presented Tonighjt
The proposed Fort Morgan 2012 budget will be presented to council at tonight's meeting. Acting City Manager Jeff Well will also present the city's 2012 fee schedule at tonight's meeting. As the city is lowering its reserves, several operating budgets may appear to be running in the red, but the city auditor says that's not the case. The only budget that's running in the negative is the golf fund, which will again need a shot to stay at par from the general operating fund.
Sterling Woman Arrested Twice in 30 Minutes
A Sterling woman was arrested on Saturday evening, for the second time within hours for speeding. Colorado State Patrol said 20 year old Audra Parmer was arrested for trying to influence a public servant, driving while license revoked, speeding 100 miles an hour in a 75-mile zone on Interstate 76 four miles west of Brush. CSP said
it was the second time in 30 minutes that they had stopped Parmer for speeding on I-76 in Morgan County.
it was the second time in 30 minutes that they had stopped Parmer for speeding on I-76 in Morgan County.
Two Slightly Hurt in Friday Crash
Two people were hurt when two pickups crashed on Morgan County Road GG last Friday. Colorado State Patrol said 36 year old Renee Osier of Snyder had a bump on her head and a child had a cut on the arm. CSP said Osier was pulling out of a driveway, and her truck hit one that 45 year old Matthew Baker, also of Snyder was driving. CSP said he was not hurt. Osier was cited for failure to yield right of way and driving while license denied.
Credit Union Accountsd Compromised
Several Weld Schools Credit Union accounts may have been compromised. WSCU President Steve Sanborn said they may have been charged thousand of dollars over the past couple of days, but its not the credit union's fault. He said none of their internal processes have been compromised. Sanborn says other banks have also had issues, but the source of the problem has not been located. He said his customers are being issued new cards and the old ones canceled.
Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions On The Rise
(Denver, CO) -- State officials are warning motorists that wildlife-vehicle collisions are on the rise. The Colorado Department of Transportation sees an average of 33-hundred reported wildlife hits each year, with an increase during migration season, particularly between dusk and dawn. The average property damage cost of an animal-vehicle collision is estimated at more than 31-hundred dollars, up one-point-seven-percent from a year ago.
Bush to speak to educators in Denver on Thursday
DENVER (AP) — Former President George W. Bush plans to be in Denver on Thursday, a makeup visit for one that he canceled in February.
The Denver Post reported Monday that Bush will give brief remarks at a meeting with Get Smart Schools, then meet with local education leaders, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock and Denver school superintendent Tom Boasbert.
Get Smart Schools is a nonprofit Colorado group that trains principals for innovation or charter schools. It's also developing a national certification program for principals.
Bush canceled the February visit to Denver because WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was invited to speak to another event that Bush would have attended, the Young Presidents' Organization Global Leadership Summit.
The Denver Post reported Monday that Bush will give brief remarks at a meeting with Get Smart Schools, then meet with local education leaders, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock and Denver school superintendent Tom Boasbert.
Get Smart Schools is a nonprofit Colorado group that trains principals for innovation or charter schools. It's also developing a national certification program for principals.
Bush canceled the February visit to Denver because WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was invited to speak to another event that Bush would have attended, the Young Presidents' Organization Global Leadership Summit.
Psychic misses start of theft, tax evasion trial
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) - A self-described Colorado psychic accused of stealing nearly $300,000 from clients has been hospitalized and failed to show up for her trial on theft and tax-evasion charges.
Fifty-five-year-old Nancy Marks of Lafayette was to go on trial Monday. Her attorney says Marks has high blood pressure, shortness of breath and nausea.
The Boulder Daily Camera reports the judge issued an arrest warrant but stayed it until Oct. 25, when he plans a hearing to determine if Marks has legitimate medical problems.
Prosecutors say she's stalling.
Seven people told police that Marks told them she needed their cash to "draw out the bad energy" and their credit card numbers to see how frequently the numeral 6 appeared.
Police say Marks kept the cash and used the credit cards.
Fifty-five-year-old Nancy Marks of Lafayette was to go on trial Monday. Her attorney says Marks has high blood pressure, shortness of breath and nausea.
The Boulder Daily Camera reports the judge issued an arrest warrant but stayed it until Oct. 25, when he plans a hearing to determine if Marks has legitimate medical problems.
Prosecutors say she's stalling.
Seven people told police that Marks told them she needed their cash to "draw out the bad energy" and their credit card numbers to see how frequently the numeral 6 appeared.
Police say Marks kept the cash and used the credit cards.
CU student hospitalized with meningitis
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The University of Colorado says a 21-year-old female student has been diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis .
Health officials from the university and Boulder County said Monday the student is hospitalized. She is a junior living off campus but her name hasn't been released.
Dr. Don Misch , assistant vice chancellor for health and wellness, says his understanding is that the student is doing well.
She was diagnosed Friday. Authorities say no other current cases have been diagnosed in Colorado.
Health officials say most of the students and staff who came in close contact with the student have been notified and offered treatment. The disease can spread to others but officials say that's rare.
The bacteria causes an infection of the tissue surround the brain and spinal cord.
Health officials from the university and Boulder County said Monday the student is hospitalized. She is a junior living off campus but her name hasn't been released.
Dr. Don Misch , assistant vice chancellor for health and wellness, says his understanding is that the student is doing well.
She was diagnosed Friday. Authorities say no other current cases have been diagnosed in Colorado.
Health officials say most of the students and staff who came in close contact with the student have been notified and offered treatment. The disease can spread to others but officials say that's rare.
The bacteria causes an infection of the tissue surround the brain and spinal cord.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Logan Co Ambulance Service Up and Running
Sterling Fire Chief Kurt Vogel says the Logan County Ambulance Service is now standing on its own, after working with Morgan County Ambulance until it got ready to fly solo. Vogel told Rotarians last week that the ambulance service is the biggest change in the fire department in about a century. He said that while they've handled EMS for about two decades, its been nothing like this: keeping patient care until its turned over to the emergency room at the hospital. He told the group that not all of their personnel have been hired, but when they are up to speed, there should be about two dozen on staff.
BOE Needs Board Member
The Fort Morgan Board of Education begins the hunt tonight for a new member and for a new superintendent. Their meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. Current superintendent Greg wagers is retiring in June, but more immediate is the need to find a board member. The school board canceled its part of the November first election since there are three incumbents for four positions. Son on Monday, the board will declare a vacancy, set a time line that calls for letters of interest through November first, and then review those letters at its November 7th meeting so that a new member is seated on November 21.
Breneman on Trial January 9
Kenneth Breneman goes on trial on January 9 in Morgan County District Court. The 42 year old Breneman was in court last week for a pretrial hearing, as he faces charges of first-degree assault with a deadly weapon causing serious bodily injury, committing a violent crime with a weapon, attempting to influence a public servant, using a gun while drunk and two counts of no-injury negligent child abuse after an incident at his house early this year. If he's convicted, Breneman would spend 32 years in prison. He's Fort Morgan's streets superintendent, but is on unpaid leave until this matter is resolved.
Teen Finds Python
LONGMONT, Colo. -- A Longmont teen found a nonnative python snake in a tree Saturday.
Fourteen year old Trevor Bonner and his mother spotted the snake while walking around Jim Hamm Nature Area, and Bonner immediately suspected the snake was not a native species. Fox 31 in Denver report that
Colorado Reptile Humane Society assisted in the capture of the snake and identified it as a Jungle Carpet Python. The snake is native to Australia and sold in the U.S as a pet. The snake will be held as a stray animal for 5 days by Colorado Reptile Humane Society.
Fourteen year old Trevor Bonner and his mother spotted the snake while walking around Jim Hamm Nature Area, and Bonner immediately suspected the snake was not a native species. Fox 31 in Denver report that
Colorado Reptile Humane Society assisted in the capture of the snake and identified it as a Jungle Carpet Python. The snake is native to Australia and sold in the U.S as a pet. The snake will be held as a stray animal for 5 days by Colorado Reptile Humane Society.
Rare Tiger Needs Surgery
(Serenity Springs, CO) -- One of 17 rare snow tigers in the U.S. is in need of help at a Serenity Springs sanctuary. The tiger developed an aneurysm in its spine and needs life-saving surgery costing ten-thousand dollars. Go to serenityspringswildlife.org to learn more.
Unused sick time pay for state workers targeted
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (AP) — A state lawmakers is considering introducing a bill that would eliminate paying state workers for unused leave and sick time, which could mean a savings of about $367 million.
State workers want the benefit to remain as it is, saying it's one of the few they have left.
The Daily Sentinel reports the state has paid more than $58 million in unused leave and sick time to state workers since 2008.
Republican Rep. Laura Bradford of Collbran says she's looking into introducing a measure in January to eliminate the benefit. Other lawmakers support the move, including Republican House Speaker Frank McNulty of Highlands Ranch. McNulty says it creates a problem when Coloradans see state workers getting a taxpayer funded benefit that they'll likely not see in their own jobs.
State workers want the benefit to remain as it is, saying it's one of the few they have left.
The Daily Sentinel reports the state has paid more than $58 million in unused leave and sick time to state workers since 2008.
Republican Rep. Laura Bradford of Collbran says she's looking into introducing a measure in January to eliminate the benefit. Other lawmakers support the move, including Republican House Speaker Frank McNulty of Highlands Ranch. McNulty says it creates a problem when Coloradans see state workers getting a taxpayer funded benefit that they'll likely not see in their own jobs.
3 companies in a week announce moves to Colorado
DENVER (AP) — Three companies in week have announced major investments in Colorado that could mean hundreds of jobs for the state.
General Electric announced it would build a $300 million solar-panel plant in Aurora, while Arrow Electronics announced it is moving its headquarters from New York to Arapahoe County. Outdoor recreational equipment manufacturer Coleman says it might move its headquarters from Wichita, Kan., back to Denver, where it was headquartered until 1997.
The Denver Post reports that Colorado economic development officials say the successes are partly the result of efforts started by Gov. Bill Ritter.
Ritter's administration established a tax credit that gives companies that create well-paying jobs a 50 percent break on payroll taxes for up to five years.
General Electric announced it would build a $300 million solar-panel plant in Aurora, while Arrow Electronics announced it is moving its headquarters from New York to Arapahoe County. Outdoor recreational equipment manufacturer Coleman says it might move its headquarters from Wichita, Kan., back to Denver, where it was headquartered until 1997.
The Denver Post reports that Colorado economic development officials say the successes are partly the result of efforts started by Gov. Bill Ritter.
Ritter's administration established a tax credit that gives companies that create well-paying jobs a 50 percent break on payroll taxes for up to five years.
Funeral for 6 killed in crash will be Friday
KIT CARSON, Colo. (AP) — Services for the five children and the Cheyenne County sheriff's deputy killed in an accident in a construction zone on U.S. 287 south of Eads will be Friday.
KUSA-TV reports that services will be at 1 p.m. in the Eads High School Auditorium. The crash Thursday morning also injured seven children.
They remain hospitalized in Denver in fair or serious condition.
Family members issued a statement thanking the community for its prayers and support and said their focus continues to be on the injured children.
Brown Funeral Homes is handling the arrangements and says contributions can be made to the Mitchell Family Memorial Fund at the Kit Carson State Bank, PO Box 175, Kit Carson, CO 80825 or to the Brown Funeral Home, PO Box 432, Eads, Colo., 81036.
KUSA-TV reports that services will be at 1 p.m. in the Eads High School Auditorium. The crash Thursday morning also injured seven children.
They remain hospitalized in Denver in fair or serious condition.
Family members issued a statement thanking the community for its prayers and support and said their focus continues to be on the injured children.
Brown Funeral Homes is handling the arrangements and says contributions can be made to the Mitchell Family Memorial Fund at the Kit Carson State Bank, PO Box 175, Kit Carson, CO 80825 or to the Brown Funeral Home, PO Box 432, Eads, Colo., 81036.
Friday, October 14, 2011
City Utility Rates Headed Lower
Fort Morgan residents could soon see their utility bills lowered. City Clerk John Brennan says rates for electricity and natural gas could get slashed and that's good news for local families...
TAG: Brennan says the city's fuel costs are about half of what they were three years ago and that means as early as this winter, electric rate could fall by about 40-percent and natural gas rates could go down by as much as 60-percent.
TAG: Brennan says the city's fuel costs are about half of what they were three years ago and that means as early as this winter, electric rate could fall by about 40-percent and natural gas rates could go down by as much as 60-percent.
Governor says Denver protesters' camp is illegal
DENVER (AP) - Colorado State Patrol troopers say they're ready to enforce curfew laws near the state Capitol if hundreds of Occupy Denver protesters are there overnight, but there appeared to be no immediate action after an 11 p.m. deadline to clear the park passed Thursday.
State Patrol Chief James Wolfinbarger had said troopers could issue citations or make arrests between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Earlier, Gov. John Hickenlooper told protesters they could demonstrate on state property during the day but had to tear down their tent camp.
Hickenlooper, Attorney General John Suthers and Mayor Michael Hancock say camping on state property is illegal.
All said they want to guarantee the protesters' First Amendment rights but said plans were being devised to close the camp if needed for security and sanitary reasons.
State Patrol Chief James Wolfinbarger had said troopers could issue citations or make arrests between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Earlier, Gov. John Hickenlooper told protesters they could demonstrate on state property during the day but had to tear down their tent camp.
Hickenlooper, Attorney General John Suthers and Mayor Michael Hancock say camping on state property is illegal.
All said they want to guarantee the protesters' First Amendment rights but said plans were being devised to close the camp if needed for security and sanitary reasons.
Public Hearing Notice - Gas and/or Electric Service Rates
A Public Hearing will be convened by City Council on Tuesday, November 15, 2011, at 7:00 pm. The Public Hearing will take place at Historic City Hall, 110 Main St. Any utility customer receiving service may appear at the hearing, personally or through counsel, for the purpose of providing testimony or comment regarding the proposed new rate schedule(s) for gas/electric service. Rule of procedure governing the Public Hearing will be made available to affected customers at City Hall, 110 Main St.
Ballots Mailed
The ballots are now in the mail in Logan County for the November first coordinated election. They've been mailed this week, so if you don't get yours by October 24, contact the clerk's office. The mail out/mail in ballots replace going to the polls on Election Day. Only active voters are receiving ballots. So when you receive your ballot, vote it and return it to the clerk's office before the close of business on November first. Here are some tips to get your voted counted:
1. Receive ballot, secrecy sleeve and return envelope in the mail.
2. Use a blue or black pen to vote your ballot. Make sure the ink will not bleed through the paper.
3. Make selection of candidates and questions you wish to vote on by completely filling in the box provided to the left of your choice. Example: n John Doe
4. If you do not want to vote the entire ballot, simply mark your selections and leave the others blank.
5. Place the ballot inside of the secrecy sleeve in your return envelope addressed to Logan County Clerk and Recorder, 315 Main Street, Suite 3, Sterling.
6. Before sealing the envelope, please sign the signature affidavit. This is required in order for your ballot to be processed.
7. Mail or hand-carry the ballot to the Clerk and Recorder's Office at 315 Main Street, Sterling, CO 80751, or place adequate postage on your ballot return envelope and mail it back.
8. Remember to allow enough time for mail delivery of your voted ballot. All ballots must be returned to the Clerk and Recorder's office by election day, Nov. 1, by 7 p.m. in order to be counted, whether by hand delivery or mail delivery.
1. Receive ballot, secrecy sleeve and return envelope in the mail.
2. Use a blue or black pen to vote your ballot. Make sure the ink will not bleed through the paper.
3. Make selection of candidates and questions you wish to vote on by completely filling in the box provided to the left of your choice. Example: n John Doe
4. If you do not want to vote the entire ballot, simply mark your selections and leave the others blank.
5. Place the ballot inside of the secrecy sleeve in your return envelope addressed to Logan County Clerk and Recorder, 315 Main Street, Suite 3, Sterling.
6. Before sealing the envelope, please sign the signature affidavit. This is required in order for your ballot to be processed.
7. Mail or hand-carry the ballot to the Clerk and Recorder's Office at 315 Main Street, Sterling, CO 80751, or place adequate postage on your ballot return envelope and mail it back.
8. Remember to allow enough time for mail delivery of your voted ballot. All ballots must be returned to the Clerk and Recorder's office by election day, Nov. 1, by 7 p.m. in order to be counted, whether by hand delivery or mail delivery.
GE to build large solar panel factory in Colorado
NEW YORK (AP) — General Electric Co. will build the largest solar factory in the U.S. near Denver.
The company, which had announced in April it would build the factory, said Thursday it had selected Aurora, Colo., a suburb east of Denver, for the location.
The factory will have an annual capacity of 400 megawatts, enough to supply electricity to about 80,000 homes.
GE is entering the solar business at a brutal time for makers of solar panels. Solar installations are growing fast, but panel prices are falling precipitously.
This has led to the bankruptcies of three solar panel makers in the last two months, including Solyndra, a panel maker that collapsed despite receiving a $535 million loan guarantee from the federal government.
GE says the factory will employ 355 people in Colorado.
The company, which had announced in April it would build the factory, said Thursday it had selected Aurora, Colo., a suburb east of Denver, for the location.
The factory will have an annual capacity of 400 megawatts, enough to supply electricity to about 80,000 homes.
GE is entering the solar business at a brutal time for makers of solar panels. Solar installations are growing fast, but panel prices are falling precipitously.
This has led to the bankruptcies of three solar panel makers in the last two months, including Solyndra, a panel maker that collapsed despite receiving a $535 million loan guarantee from the federal government.
GE says the factory will employ 355 people in Colorado.
State patrol: 5 kids, 1 man dead in Colo. crash
KIT CARSON, Colo. (AP) — A sheriff's deputy who ran a group home for adopted and foster children was killed along with five children when his van collided with a livestock trailer Thursday morning.
Howard Mitchell was taking 12 children from the group home in the community of Kit Carson to Eads, about 15 miles away.
Kiowa County Sheriff's office spokesman Chris Sorensen said the children who died ranged in age from 4 to 17. Seven other children in the van were hospitalized, as well as the driver of the truck.
Mitchell worked as a Cheyenne County sheriff's deputy and also ran the Mitchell House Children's Home. A neighbor described the family as "good people with good hearts."
The accident happened in a construction zone on U.S. 287, about 130 miles southeast of Denver.
Howard Mitchell was taking 12 children from the group home in the community of Kit Carson to Eads, about 15 miles away.
Kiowa County Sheriff's office spokesman Chris Sorensen said the children who died ranged in age from 4 to 17. Seven other children in the van were hospitalized, as well as the driver of the truck.
Mitchell worked as a Cheyenne County sheriff's deputy and also ran the Mitchell House Children's Home. A neighbor described the family as "good people with good hearts."
The accident happened in a construction zone on U.S. 287, about 130 miles southeast of Denver.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Sterling Police Investigate Incident
Sterling Police are investigating an incident that happened this past Tuesday. They said a 50 year old white male in an older red, Ford pick up truck followed two children who were walking from Monahan Park to the Skate Park, then to the Recreation Center. Police said he got out of his truck, hid down beside it to watch the children. He's also reported to have walked to a stop sign at 3rd and Elm and was watching them from there. The incident happened just before 8 p.m. on Tuesday. The children's parents picked them up shortly after the incident.
Greeley Monsters on TV
A Greeley man who makes monsters has his own "reality" show. Guess what it's called. Its called "Making Monsters". Ed Edmunds and his wife Marsha make all sorts of monster masks and things having to do with monsters. "Making Monsters" is on the Travel Channel on Sunday nighs at 6. Ed says the show is a true reality show in which he, his wife, and their team from Distortions Unlimited are involved. He said there's nothing fake about the show since no one involved is good enough to be an actor.
Prop 13 Opponents Question Ballots Sent To Inactive Voters
(Denver, CO) -- Some are saying the plan to send mail ballots to inactive voters in nine heavily Democratic leaning counties is giving Proposition 103 an unfair advantage. They claim those counties getting the ballots for the November 1st election, while others are not, is a form of voter manipulation. Supporters say it's better for democracy.
"Band Aid Bandit" Guilty Of Robbery Spree
(Aurora, CO) -- The so-called "Band Aid Bandit" is facing quite a bit of time behind bars. Richard MacNeill was found guilty yesterday in Arapahoe County on 29 counts of charges ranging from theft to aggravated robbery. The 47-year-old was given the "Band Aid" nickname for using bandages to cover his face and tattoos to conceal his identity. Police say MacNeill robbed business and banks around Aurora in a crime spree that lasted from October 2009 to February 2010.
Hickenlooper, Hancock Mull Moving Occupy Denver Protesters
(Denver, CO) -- The Occupy Denver protesters may soon be forced to abandon their tents in front of the state capitol. Governor Hickenlooper and Mayor Hancock released a joint statement last night, saying they're concerned about public safety. The two city leaders say they're trying to find a balance between First Amendment rights and violation of state law. Two days ago, protesters hand-delivered a letter to Hickenlooper, asking to not be evicted.
Hickenlooper Issues Order To Crackdown On Unemployment Fraud
(Denver, CO) -- Governor John Hickenlooper is cracking down on fraudulent unemployment claims. He signed an executive order yesterday that allows the state's department of labor to investigate people receiving improper payments. The "Denver Business Journal" reports Colorado paid-out more than 900-million-dollars in unemployment claims last year. Nearly 20-percent of it went to false claims.
Arapahoe Basin, Loveland ready to opens to skiers
KEYSTONE, Colo. (AP) - Arapahoe Basin and Loveland will be the second and third Colorado ski resorts to open this season.
Arapahoe Basin says it plans to open Thursday, just 100 days after it closed on July 4. Arapahoe Basin says it will have an 18-inch base on an intermediate run. Several terrain park features will also be open.
Loveland says it will open Friday with an 18-inch base.
Wolf Creek Ski Area in southern Colorado was first in the state this season, opening Saturday.
Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort outside Las Vegas claims it was the first in the nation to open, beating Wolf Creek by 27 minutes.
However Arapahoe Basin will be operating daily after opening day.
Arapahoe Basin says it plans to open Thursday, just 100 days after it closed on July 4. Arapahoe Basin says it will have an 18-inch base on an intermediate run. Several terrain park features will also be open.
Loveland says it will open Friday with an 18-inch base.
Wolf Creek Ski Area in southern Colorado was first in the state this season, opening Saturday.
Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort outside Las Vegas claims it was the first in the nation to open, beating Wolf Creek by 27 minutes.
However Arapahoe Basin will be operating daily after opening day.
Deadliest listeria outbreak in 25 years
WASHINGTON (AP) — An outbreak of listeria in cantaloupe is now linked to 23 deaths in the U.S., making it the deadliest known outbreak of food-borne illness in more than 25 years.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that 116 people have been sickened in the outbreak, including those who died. The number of deaths has now surpassed a 1998 outbreak of listeria in processed meats that was linked to 21 deaths.
A 1985 listeria outbreak in Mexican-style soft cheeses killed 52 people.
The CDC confirmed two more deaths in Louisiana that the state had said it was investigating last week. Other deaths were reported in Colorado, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming.
Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., recalled the tainted cantaloupe last month.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that 116 people have been sickened in the outbreak, including those who died. The number of deaths has now surpassed a 1998 outbreak of listeria in processed meats that was linked to 21 deaths.
A 1985 listeria outbreak in Mexican-style soft cheeses killed 52 people.
The CDC confirmed two more deaths in Louisiana that the state had said it was investigating last week. Other deaths were reported in Colorado, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming.
Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., recalled the tainted cantaloupe last month.
Fire near Windsor destroys about 100 tons of hay
GREELEY, Colo. (AP) — A fire in a hay barn just east of Windsor has destroyed about 100 tons of hay and the equipment stored in a tool shed connected to the barn.
Windsor-Severance Fire Rescue fire marshal Sandra Friedrichsen says the cause of the fire Wednesday morning is under investigation.
Gina and Darin Henry sell hay from the barn and they also own Mountain Shadow Carriages. The Greeley Tribune reports the couple's custom-made, three-story tall super wagon was destroyed by the fire, as was a tractor and some tools.
An office next to the barn and tool shed sustained smoke damage.
Darin Henry says hay goes for $270 per ton, meaning the fire destroyed about $27,000 worth.
Windsor-Severance Fire Rescue fire marshal Sandra Friedrichsen says the cause of the fire Wednesday morning is under investigation.
Gina and Darin Henry sell hay from the barn and they also own Mountain Shadow Carriages. The Greeley Tribune reports the couple's custom-made, three-story tall super wagon was destroyed by the fire, as was a tractor and some tools.
An office next to the barn and tool shed sustained smoke damage.
Darin Henry says hay goes for $270 per ton, meaning the fire destroyed about $27,000 worth.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Fort Morgan Drug Takeback Coming Up
Fort Morgan police will hold a drug takeback Saturday, October 29 at Colorado Plains Medical Center in Fort Morgan. The event's a chance for you to get rid of old, outdated, unused prescription drugs that might fall into the wrong hands. The drive up event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Don't bring any needles or sharps. Police will take the medication without asking any questions.
Free Dental Clinic in Brush
The fifth annual Colorado Mission of Mercy two-day free dental clinic is October 21 and 22. Clinic hours are 6 a.m., to 5 p.m.both days and its at Brush High School at 400 West Street. There'll be cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions and limited partial dentures.
Vote Would Continue RTA Tsx
The South Platte Valley Regional Transportation Authority has a November ballot issue to continue the RTA sales tax. Voters approved the one tenth of one percent sales tax back in 2007 to support the deviated fixed route inside Sterling. The tax is due a vote this year, which, with a positive vote would indicate the service's success. The tax would also have sunset, but with a vote for, during this year's election, a vote for would not sunset the tax.
Cash-For-Gold Scam Nets Thieves Eleven Grand
(Denver, CO) -- The surging price of gold is becoming a lure for scam artists. One Denver jewelry store is out eleven-thousand dollars after two thieves fooled them in a cash-for-gold scheme. Store owner Myrna Munoz says the pair walked in with a bag of authentic jewelry for sale. The two men said they needed to sell the gold urgently because they had a family emergency. Munoz agreed to buy it for eleven-thousand dollars, but while one man distracted her, the other switched out the bag of real gold with an identical set of fake pieces. She said she didn't notice the switch until the pair had left the store with the cash. A security camera captured the scam, and Denver police are investigating.
Ex-City Officials Still Getting Paid
(Colorado Sprigs, CO) -- Former city attorney Patricia Kelly retired last month but is still getting paid big bucks. The "Gazette" reports Kelly is still getting paychecks totaling 92-thousand-dollars. The paper says five former city executives are still receiving a combined 450-thousand-dollars.
Gaming officials: Couple shouldn't get $31,000 prize
WESTMINSTER, Colo. (AP) — Sometimes Lady Luck just isn't on your side.
The Colorado Division of Gaming has decided that a Westminster couple who thought they had won more than $31,000 playing penny slots at a Black Hawk casino only deserve to be refunded on the 80 cents they put into the machine.
Chuck and Tisha Barry were playing the Cash Spin game at the Lady Luck casino this summer when Chuck Barry says he got three bars with sevens and then landed on the "Super Jackpot." He says a red light began flashing before the machine went dark.
KCNC-TV reports the state determined the machine locked up because of a problem with the touch screen and did not complete its cycle. Therefore, the prize money announcement was invalid.
The Barrys have hired an attorney.
The Colorado Division of Gaming has decided that a Westminster couple who thought they had won more than $31,000 playing penny slots at a Black Hawk casino only deserve to be refunded on the 80 cents they put into the machine.
Chuck and Tisha Barry were playing the Cash Spin game at the Lady Luck casino this summer when Chuck Barry says he got three bars with sevens and then landed on the "Super Jackpot." He says a red light began flashing before the machine went dark.
KCNC-TV reports the state determined the machine locked up because of a problem with the touch screen and did not complete its cycle. Therefore, the prize money announcement was invalid.
The Barrys have hired an attorney.
Plea deal for man accused of bilking cop's widow
DENVER (AP) — A man accused of bilking the widow of a slain Denver police officer and other investors in what prosecutors say was a Ponzi scheme has pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud.
A plea agreement says 45-year-old Xavier Joseph Duran could face up to 12 years in prison, but the sentence would be suspended if he pays restitution and completes 12 years of probation. Duran is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 6.
An indictment alleged Duran stole more than $1 million from victims.
The Denver Post reports that one victim, Kelly Young, lost almost $800,000 in the death benefits and charitable contributions she collected after her husband, Donnie Young, was killed in 2005 while working security off duty.
A plea agreement says 45-year-old Xavier Joseph Duran could face up to 12 years in prison, but the sentence would be suspended if he pays restitution and completes 12 years of probation. Duran is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 6.
An indictment alleged Duran stole more than $1 million from victims.
The Denver Post reports that one victim, Kelly Young, lost almost $800,000 in the death benefits and charitable contributions she collected after her husband, Donnie Young, was killed in 2005 while working security off duty.
Adams County kennel closes, reasons undisclosed
DENVER (AP) — The owner of North Washington Street Kennel in Adams County has told Colorado agriculture officials the kennel is closing, without saying why.
But KMGH-TV in Denver reports that Jeff Fortin told his leasing agent an investigation by the Denver television station put him out of business.
The station reports Fortin also hasn't renewed his breeding license for a facility in Kansas.
Kansas records show Fortin euthanized more than 1,000 dogs in Kansas last year after a distemper outbreak.
In Colorado, a former Fortin employee and another employee have accused Fortin of euthanizing dogs at his pet store by injecting liquid soap into animals' hearts.
Police told KMGH prosecutors determined there wasn't enough evidence to pursue a search warrant.
But KMGH-TV in Denver reports that Jeff Fortin told his leasing agent an investigation by the Denver television station put him out of business.
The station reports Fortin also hasn't renewed his breeding license for a facility in Kansas.
Kansas records show Fortin euthanized more than 1,000 dogs in Kansas last year after a distemper outbreak.
In Colorado, a former Fortin employee and another employee have accused Fortin of euthanizing dogs at his pet store by injecting liquid soap into animals' hearts.
Police told KMGH prosecutors determined there wasn't enough evidence to pursue a search warrant.
Dog trainer pleads guilty to animal cruelty
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) - A Loveland dog trainer has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor animal cruelty charge.
Off Leash Dog Training owner Ryan Matthews entered his plea Tuesday. Sentencing will be at a later date.
Investigators had accused him of shoving a dog's muzzled head through wallboard, punching it and throwing it to the ground.
The Reporter-Herald reports Matthews' plea agreement calls for him to face 30 days in jail time and two years of supervised probation during which he can't own pets or work for an organization or company that interacts with animals.
Off Leash Dog Training owner Ryan Matthews entered his plea Tuesday. Sentencing will be at a later date.
Investigators had accused him of shoving a dog's muzzled head through wallboard, punching it and throwing it to the ground.
The Reporter-Herald reports Matthews' plea agreement calls for him to face 30 days in jail time and two years of supervised probation during which he can't own pets or work for an organization or company that interacts with animals.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Water Mains Flushed this Week
The City of Fort Morgan is flushing water mains from October 10th through the 14th, during the evening hours of 9 pm - 7 am.
The flushing is performing during periods of low water demand, such as in the spring and fall. This is done routinely to clean out the distribution pipelines to remove any impurities or sediments that may be deposited in the distribution system. If you notice water running in the streets, it is likely from the flushing of water mains. If you have any questions, please call Mitch Church, Water Distribution Superintendent, at (970) 542-3911.
The flushing is performing during periods of low water demand, such as in the spring and fall. This is done routinely to clean out the distribution pipelines to remove any impurities or sediments that may be deposited in the distribution system. If you notice water running in the streets, it is likely from the flushing of water mains. If you have any questions, please call Mitch Church, Water Distribution Superintendent, at (970) 542-3911.
Utility Changes During Brush Streetscape Project
Brush residents found out that there's been a change to the streetscape project specifically at Clayton and Edison Streets. While the street is torn up with the streetscape project, they extended the sewer line into the 200 block of Clayton. Other changes to the utility infrastructure will also happen during the streetscape project.
Achievement Night Coming Up
The 2011 Morgan County 4-H Achievement Night is coming up on November 20 at the Mark Arndt Event Center at the Morgan County Fairgrounds in Brush. Achievement Night is a chance to recognize the accomplishments of Morgan County 4-Hers over the past year. There will be lots of awards given out that night.
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