Rural Click it or ticket enforcement next week

KSIR-Co Rural Counties Click it or Ticket Enforcement Next Week - BOTH



In an effort to save lives on rural colorado roadways, the state police and local law enforcement agencies are mobilizing for a "click it or ticket" seat belt enforcement period next week. The enforcement is set to be combined with an educational campaign to dispell the myths and excuses people use for not wearing their seat belts. Nearly 60-percent of the people killed in rural automobile accidents last year were not wearing seat belts. Drivers of pick up trucks are the least likely to buckle up.,

Spring Clean Up Ends Sunday - FM

KSIR- Annual Spring Clean Up Ends Sunday - FM

Annual Spring Clean Up - NEAR THE END!
The City's annual Spring Clean Up Week will end on Sunday, April 1st. The Streets and Sanitation Departments are completing the FREE pickup of items that you want disposed of. Your items MUST BE OUT by Sunday, April 1st. . If you have any questions, please call the Sanitation Dept. at (970) 542-3985

Teen Missing in Ft. Morgan

KSIR-033012-Missing Teen - FM

The Fort Morgan Police Department is requesting assistance from the public in locating Kayla Chadwick, age 17, who has been missing since Wednesday. She is described as 5 feet, 4 inches tall. She has long red hair with black tips. Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Fort Morgan Police Department at 867-5678.

Rep. Gardner Honored By US Chamber of Commerce

Congressman Cory Gardner was honored on Capitol Hill today. Details from Darrell Moody...






The US Chamber of Commerce presented GArdner with their annual Spirit of Enterprise Award for his support of pro-jobs, pro-growth policies during the first session of the 112th Congress. Chamber President Thomas Donahue said Gardner has worked over the past year to protect and advance the interests of America's job creators. According to the Chamber's annual scorecard Gardner maintained a 100-percent rating this year. The Chamber scored Congress on 11 Senate votes and 16 House votes last year, including the repeal of 1099 reporting requirements, the 3-percent witholding from contractors and the federal health care law dubbed "Obamacare." The legislation is currently under review by the US Supreme Court.

Welfare Drug Testing Bill Dies In House

Drug Testing For Welfare Recipients Dies In House

(Denver, CO) -- A bill seeking to force Colorado welfare recipients to take drug tests failed yesterday in a voice vote on the House floor. The bill was receiving a second reading and a voice vote was called to advance the proposal to a third, more formal vote. However, Republican Brian Delgrosso felt the no votes outweighed the "ayes" and announced the bill had failed. The bill would have required applicants to the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program to first pay for their own drug test, and would have denied them benefits if they failed.

Norovirus Sickens Seniors At Aurora Facility

AURORA, Colo. (AP) — Health officials say 28 people have been sickened by norovirus at a nursing home and two people have been hospitalized.

According to KMGH-TV, Dr. Tista Ghosh of Tri-County Health says 21 residents and seven staff members at Lifecare Center of Aurora were infected by the virus that spreads quickly.

Ghosh says it is not clear if the two people were hospitalized because of the virus.

Symptoms of norovirus include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The virus is usually not considered serious and most people recover in one or two days.

TV News Anchor Returns To Air After Dog Bite

DENVER (AP) — A Denver television news anchor who was bitten by a dog on live TV is planning to return to work next week.

Kyle Dyer of KUSA-TV was bitten in the face by an 85-pound Argentine mastiff last month during a segment with the dog's owner and a firefighter who had rescued the pet from an icy pond. She received 90 stitches.

The station says she plans to return to work on Monday.

Dyer called the incident an accident. She says she's glad the dog is home after spending 10 days in mandatory quarantine.

Memorial Planned For Couple Killed In CO Wildfire

LITTLETON, Colo. (AP) — A memorial service is planned for the couple likely killed by a wildfire in the Jefferson County foothills.

Friday's service will be held at Southern Gables Church in Littleton.

The bodies of Sam Lucas and Linda Lucas — who was known as Moaneti — were found at their burned home earlier this week. The coroner still is investigating how they died. A neighbor said they were packed and ready to leave home on Monday but it's not clear why they didn't escape.

Pastor Jack McCullough told KMGH-TV that the Lucases called the church that day asking him to spread a request for prayers through the church's prayer chain.

Conifer Wildfire-Latest

CONIFER, Colo. (AP) — Authorities in Colorado say they're investigating problems with an emergency notification system because some residents who had signed up to get wildfire warnings never got one.

About 12 percent of people failed to get a warning about a wildfire on Monday. Jefferson County sheriff's spokesman Mark Techmeyer said Friday that some of those people likely hung up because of the pause that precedes the automated message or their phone may have been busy.

He says there was no attempt to reach an unknown number of other people registered to get them.

The company that handles the system says it worked exactly as it should. The president of FirstCall Network Inc. didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

Techmeyer says the county needs to find out more about what happened.

Fort Morgan Easter Egg Hunt To Be Held Saturday

Fort Morgan's annual Easter Egg Hunt is being held this Saturday morning at the Downtown City Park. The event is open to children ages 10-and-under. Parents will be allowed to help small children. The festivities begin at 10 o'clock. For more information, call the Fort Morgan Recreation Department at 970-542-3921.

Reverse 911 System Failed to Notify Homeowners in Fire Zone

KSIR-Reverse 911 System Failed to Notify homeowners in Lower North Fork Fire Zone - BOTH


Jefferson County Fire officials acknowledged today that about 12 percent of the homeowners within the Lower North Fork Fire zone did not receive an automated emergency call. A spokesperson said they believe a software issue caused the partial failure of the reverse 9-1-1 system. The sheriffs office is sending emergency vehicles into the area as a back up plan to warn people to get out immediately. Neighbors of Sam and Linda Lucas...the couple confirmed dead as a result of the fire...said they did not receive a warning call, despite calling dispatch for several hours about the smoke creeping into their neighborhood.

New Boys and Girls Club Considered for Sterling

KSIR-032912- New Boys and Girls Club Considered - ST



Friday evening, The Hope for Youth Committee is hosting a public meeting with Mike Coffman, regional services director for The Boys and Girls Club. The meeting is set for 6pm at The Sterling Public Library. Coffman is giving a presentation on what it would take to start up a Boys and Girls Club in Sterling. One of the first steps in the process is conducting a community readiness assessment, which takes a look at whether the needs of young people in the community are being met, as well as helping to identify resources available to support a club. Each local Boys and Girls club is responsible for its own operations and funding.

Log Lane Village Man Arrested For Internet Luring

A Log Lane Village man is in jail, accused of trying to lure a girl on the internet. Darrell Moody has the details...






Authorities say 19-year-old Anthony White was arrested Tuesday on charges of Internet Luring of a Child and Attempted Sexual Assault of a Child. According to investigators, White arranged to meet what he thought was a 12-year-old girl for sex. Fort Morgan PD, the Morgan County Sheriff's Office and the 13th Judicial District Attorney's Office worked together on the investigation. Detectives say White engaged in a sexually explicit internet conversation over a two-day period with what he thought was 12-year-old girl. When he arrived to meet the girl, he was taken into custody.

Half Million Dollar Jewelry Heist

PARKER, Colo. (AP) — Burglars made off with about $480,000 in jewelry after breaking through a wall in a vacant store in Parker.

Police say the heist occurred at Apex Jewelers. The burglary was discovered on Monday.

According to KMGH-TV (http://bit.ly/HmW3Jq ), the thieves cleared out several jewelry display boxes and left the empty boxes in the vacant store next door.

Man Arrested For Threatening With Machete

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Boulder police have arrested a man after a bicyclist said a man threatened to chop him up with a machete in a road rage incident.

Police say the bicyclist got into a dispute after a passenger in a vehicle spit on him. The bicyclist told police the man pulled a machete and threatened him.

According to the KMGH-TV (http://bit.ly/HgLlaW ), police arrested Mack Meade on suspicion of physical harassment and displaying a deadly weapon after they found a machete in the car.

Conifer Wildfire-Latest

CONIFER, Colo. (AP) — Authorities are racing to contain a destructive wildfire in the mountains outside of Denver before the return of hot and windy weather this weekend.

More than 500 firefighters are at the blaze Thursday in the mostly rural area southwest of the city's populated suburbs, which are not under threat.

Since the fire began Monday, 27 homes have been damaged or destroyed, and an elderly couple was found dead in one of the homes. No cause of death has been released.

A woman also remains missing in the fire area, which spans 6 square miles.

The residents of about 900 homes were evacuated as the strong winds quickly spread the fire. Evacuees are only allowed back to homes for 30 minutes with an escort.

RE-1 Valley Spring Break Could Move To March Next Year

KSIR-032812-RE-1 Valley Spring Break Could Be in March Next Year - ST


Students in the RE-1 Valley School district could be taking spring break in March next year. The District Accountability Advisory Committee made the recommendation to the Board of Education in their 2012 - 2013 calendar. The D-A-A-C approved the calendar on a vote with 3 members opposing the measure. No word yet on when or if the Board will accept the recommendation.

US Rep Gardner's Energy Bill Gets Committee Hearing

The US House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing this morning to discuss a pair of energy bills. One of those bills is sponsored by Colorado Congressman Cory Gardner. He says his bill would tie any tapping of the nation's strategic petroleum reserves to increased oil production here in the US...






TAG: Today's committee hearing on Capitol Hill is the latest in a series of meetings for lawmakers to consider the American Energy Initiative. Gardner says the goal is to lower the price of gas and preserve domestic energy security.

I-76 Resurfacing Project Underway

A 25-mile resurfacing project on westbound I-76 between Brush and Sterling is underway. Crews from the Colorado Department of Transportation are also replacing the guard rails and installing new bridge rails between mile marker 95 and mile marker 110. Project Engineer Jiff Vickers says barring any drastic weather, the project should be finished by July. Most of the work will be done between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. C-DOT officials say drivers should expect westbound delays in the coming months because traffic will be reduced to just one lane. The $6.2 million project is being paid for with federal funds from the Funding Advancements for Surface Treatment and Economic Recovery legislation...also known as FASTER. The legislation is aimed at improving safety on highways and bridges.

Fire Destroys Over A Dozen Homes

CONIFER, Colo. (AP) — The residents of about 900 homes have been evacuated and more are under threat because of a wildfire burning in a mostly rural area in the foothills southwest of Denver.

The blaze is several miles and mountain ridges west of the city's tightly populated southwestern suburbs. Authorities say it has destroyed 15 to 25 houses.

A body was found late Monday but investigators have yet to determine the cause of death. Jefferson County sheriff's spokeswoman Jacki Kelley says the victim wasn't a firefighter or emergency responder.

The fire has spread to nearly 5 square miles within a matter of hours, spurred by high wind gusts that prevented air crews from helping firefighters on Monday.

Forecasters say gusts re expected to be lighter on Tuesday but a period of stronger winds was expected in the afternoon.

CO Soldier Killed in Afghanistan

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — The Department of Defense says a 27-year-old Fort Carson soldier has died in Afghanistan.

The department says Sgt. Daniel Brown died as a result of injuries from an improvised explosive device on March 24.

It was his second deployment. He was sent to Afghanistan in 2011 and Iraq in 2005.

C-DOT Project Underway In Sterling

Colorado Department of Transportation crews are in Sterling working on repairs to the Highway 6 overpass sidewalk. Ashley Moore with C-DOT says the money for they're using federal funds for the project...






TAG: Moore says the project will cost $673,000. The work should be done by July. Moore says daily lane closures are to be expected.

Greeley Watering Restrictions Modified

KSIR-032712-Greeley Watering Restrictions Modified - FM


Thanks to a dry winter and a warm March, Greeley residents can begin watering their lawns early this year. Through April 15th, a citywide variance from watering restrictions covering days of the week and times of the day when it is permissible to turn on the sprinklers will be in place. After April 15th, the variance will be cancelled and Greeley water customers will be required to follow the existing rules. Greeley’s mandatory watering restrictions have been in effect since 1907.

RE-1 Board Examines CHSAA Agreement

KSIR-032712-RE-1 Board Examines CHSAA Agreement-ST


The RE-1 Valley Board of Education met with adminstrators at a workshop yesterday to discuss revisions to the district's contract for participation in Colorado High School Activities Association sanctioned activities. Much of the discussion centered around the message the contract sends to students regarding citzenship and sportsmanship on and off the field. The board will take action on recommended revisions discussed yesterday, as well as graduation policies at their meeting next monday evening.


Also, there was a decision to reference the code of conduct policy in the district policy manual within the contract.

Bear Activity On The Rise Statewide

Warm weather is bringing some of Colorado's black bears out of hibernation early. Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesman Randy Hampton says bear sightings in northeast Colorado are not common, but this year could be the exception...






TAG: Dry conditions and low snow fall this winter are forcing the bears to seek new ranges to forage for food.

MCCC Appoints Interim Director

KSIR-032612-Morgan Co Comm Center Appoints Interim Director-FM


The Board of Directors for The Morgan County Communications Center has appointed dispatcher Danette Martin as interim Director, following the the recent resignation of director Pam Monsees. A search for a permanent replacement is underway. The center is responsible for handling 9-1-1 calls for the county 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Because of the specialized skills and stress tolerance needed to work in that environment, the center has suffered a shortage of dispatchers for months. Interim Director Martin says some new dispatchers are in a training program now.

Greeley Priarie Dog Laws

KSIR-032612-Greeley Prairie Dog Laws-ST


In Greeley, the law says if your property is infested by prairie dogs, you've got to get them removed. "infestation" is defined as more than one per 900 square feet. But that raises concerns with environmentalist who point out that prairie dogs are a food source for grassland preditors, including birds of prey, reptiles, and coyotes.
For that reason, the city does not generally enforce the law May through October...unless there are complaints from residents. When there is a complaint, the property owner has 30 days to get them irradicated, or face fines and fees if the city handles it. Priairie dogs tend to begin expanding their colonies in the early spring months.

Fort Morgan Spring Clean Up Kicks Off Saturday

Fort Morgan's annual Spring Clean Up Week kicks off Saturday. City Clerk John Brennan says if you have any large items around your home, property or business, this week is the time to get rid of it...






TAG: Fort Morgan's Streets and Sanitation Departments will pick up the items free of charge. The Spring Clean Up runs through April 1. For more information, call the Sanitation Dpartment at 542-3988.

Law School Student At Center of Limbaugh Scandal to Speak in Denver

DENVER (AP) — A law student who made headlines when radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh criticized her opinion on contraception health coverage is in Denver to speak at a health care panel.

Sandra Fluke landed in the spotlight when she appeared before Congress testifying about her troubles paying for contraception without insurance coverage. Limbaugh called her a "slut," prompting a national backlash. President Barack Obama personally called the law student to offer support.

Fluke is speaking at a health care panel Friday morning with Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette of Denver. The panel marks the second anniversary of the health care law. Progressives are promoting the law as it heads to a legal challenge next week at the U.S. Supreme Court.

CO Schools to Stop Taking Attendance on Religious Holidays

DENVER (AP) — Colorado schools will stop taking official student enrollment counts on religious holidays.

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed a bill Thursday that would cover Jewish and Muslim holidays so those students get counted for school funding.

According to the Denver Post, the state's official count date for pupil enrollment and school funding on Oct. 1 occasionally falls during the Jewish High Holy Days of Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashana. Observant Jews do not work or go to school on sacred days, which are floating dates on the calendar.

Supporters say it will also benefit Muslim families that observe fall holy days.

Welfare Recipient Drug Testing Bill Advances

DENVER (AP) — A Republican measure to subject Colorado welfare applicants to drug test before they receive benefits advanced with an amendment asking that lawmakers and other elected officials also be tested annually, including the governor.

Democratic House Leader Mark Ferrandino proposed the amendment Friday and passed around small cups with pictures of lawmakers and the words "drug test." The bill moves to a vote of the full House.

Republican Rep. Jerry Sonnenberg, the bill sponsor, says he was thinking of adding the amendment even before Ferrandino proposed it. Sonnenberg says the bill is needed to make sure government benefits are going to people who truly need the help, not people who are using the money for drugs.

Ferrandino says he still opposes the bill because it creates barriers for people who need assistance.

Yuma County Heartstrong Fire Latest

Yuma County Sheriff Chad Day visited Thursday with the three firefighters who were injured Sunday as they were battling the Heartstrong fire. Jennifer Stuckmeyer remains in critical condition. Officials say she has also undergone several surgical procedures as doctors treat her for severe burns. Damon Stuckmeyer and Darren Stewart were also injured, both men continue outpatient treatment for their injuries. The Sheriff's Office reports 40-50 head of cattle were lost in the blaze, however another 300-400 remain missing. Initial estimates for property damage is around a half million dollars. Authorities are now concerned about high winds whipping up soil no longer covered by brush. The exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

Water Contaminated

KSIR-032312-Water Contaminated - BOTH




According to a report released by the Environment Colorado Research and Policy Center, our water ways are not as clean or safe as we think they are. More than 700-thousand pounds of arsenic, lead, and other toxic cancer causing chemicals have been dumped into the state's water supply. Officials with the organization that conducted the research say the finding point to the need for restoring the clean water act back to its intended purpose when it was originally passed.

Brush Fire Dept Adds New Truck

KSIR-032312-Brush Fire Dept Adds New Equipment - FM


The Brush Volunteer Fire Department added a new tanker truck to their fleet. The 240-thousand dollar vehicle, purchased from a Minnisota company, carries 3-thousand gallons. The one board pump can move 750 gallons per minute. Fire Chief Paul Acosta says it will be very helpful in rural situations, or on the outskirts of the city.

Transportation Meeting in Ft. Morgan Monday

KSIR-032212-State Transportation Commissioner in Ft. Morgan Monday - FM


Colorado State Transportation Commissioner Kathy Gilliland is set to meet with elected officials, agency staffs and business representatives Monday afternoon at the Morgan County Administration Building. It s the latest in a series of such gatherings the commissioner has been hosting in her district, which includes Morgan, Weld and Larimer Counties. The meeting, which runs from 4:30 til 6, is a chance to discuss local transportation issues, including projects scheduled for Morgan County and the surrounding area.

School District Health Insurance Costs Could Skyrocket

KSIR-032212-School District Employee Insurance Costs Skyrocket-ST


Depending on which healthcare option The RE-1 Valley School district decides to go with, their costs could increase anywhere from 115-thousand to 235-thousand dollars. Insurance analysts say the increase is due to high usage by district employees. The School Districts Health Insurance Committee requested proposals from 6 potential insurers to see if there was a better deal available, but five declined to submit a quote citing inability to offer competitve rates because the employees are considered a high risk group. Under the district's current plan, premiums will increase between 19 and 23 percent for employees. And even with that, the district could face a revenue loss of nearly 1-point-6 million dollars.

Udall to Testify on Colorado Wilderness Bill

DENVER (AP) — U.S. Sen. Mark Udall is testifying about a bill that would preserve about 61,000 acres of Colorado wilderness.

The Senate Public Lands and Forests Subcommittee is hearing a bill Thursday that would designate 33,000 acres in the San Miguel, Ouray, and San Juan counties as wilderness.

It would also protect 28,000 acres on Sheep Mountain and Naturita Canyon with other special designations.

Congress Investigating Drug Shortages

DENVER (AP) — A Colorado pharmacy is among dozens of drug outlets being investigated by Congress over drug shortages.

According to KCNC-TV (http://cbsloc.al/GEP0fe ), Superior Medical Supply Inc. is being investigated by a congressional committee for possible price gouging of life-saving medications, including a cancer drug.

The Westminster-based company said it got a letter from Congress about the investigation and denied the allegations.

Members of Congress investigating shortages of crucial drugs are targeting nearly two dozen pharmacies allegedly set up solely to buy and resell the drugs at huge markups.

Students Suspended for Pepper Spray Incident

NIWOT, Colo. (AP) — Four students at Niwot High School in Colorado have been suspended after pepper spray forced a school evacuation.

Four adults and 45 students were treated by paramedics for respiratory problems and skin irritation after the pepper spray got into a ventilation system.

According to KMGH-TV (http://bit.ly/GFmbxU ), the suspended students could be charged with criminal use of a noxious substance if they fail to complete a justice program.

Mountain View firefighters decontaminated the building before students returned inside.

Niwot is between Boulder and Longmont.

Military Barbers on Strike

DENVER (AP) — Some military personnel at Buckley Air Force Base outside Denver may have to go elsewhere for their buzz cuts because eight of the nine barbers at the base are on strike against the private company they work for.

The barbers began walking a picket line outside a base entrance on Thursday, saying Gino Morena Enterprises wants to cut their commissions at a time when the company is profitable.

The San Francisco-based company didn't immediately return a phone call seeking comment.

Mark Belkin, a spokesman for United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, says the barbers earn between $12,000 and $32,000 a year, depending on whether they work full- or part-time.

Buckley has only one barber shop. Workers at a separate beauty shop aren't involved in the strike.

Colorado 5th Best State to 'Make a Living'

According to a new report, Colorado is the fifth best state in the country to live and work. Richard Barrington, senior finance analyst with moneyrates.com says there were two factors that make Colorado a great place to make a living...






TAG: Moneyrates.com's "Best and Worst States to Make a Living" feature looks at four different factors including unemployment rate, average income, cost of living and state tax rates.

CO Woman Finds Archeological Treasures In Old Outhouse

LAFAYETTE, Colo. (AP) — A Lafayette anthropologist says she didn't have to go far to find some archaeological treasures.

Rebecca Schwendler found patent medicine bottles, a tea cup, poker chips and a soup tureen with hand-painted floral print and gold leaf in an abandoned outhouse in her own back yard.

The Longmont Times-Call reports the privy dates back to 1892. Previous residents included a coal miner and a furniture maker.

Flood Damaged Park To Be Restored

ESTES PARK, Colo. (AP) — The National Park Service is planning to restore part of the valley in the headwaters of the Colorado River that was ravaged by a 2003 flood.

Park officials say more than 47,000 cubic yards of debris, mud, rocks and trees washed into Lulu Creek when the Grand Ditch gave way on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park.

According to the Fort Collins Coloradoan (http://noconow.co/GHaM5j ), the park service is considering restoring only a portion of the damage because full restoration would require extensive use of motorized equipment.

Larmier County Ends Ban on Magnesium Chloride

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Larimer County is ending a 5-year ban on using magnesium chloride on some non-paved county roads.

The ban was imposed on privately maintained roads because of objections that it damaged trees.

The Loveland Reporter-Herald reports three public improvement districts near Estes Park and Pinewood Reservoir requested to use magnesium chloride because it is cheaper and more effective than other products that are not toxic to trees.

The chemicals are used by the Colorado Department of Transportation, Loveland, Fort Collins and many other cities to prevent ice buildup on paved roads during winter storms. Most other Colorado counties also still use it as a road base for non-paved roads to stabilize the surface and prevent dust.

Marijuana Training Bill Clears State Senate

DENVER (AP) — A proposal aimed at training people who work in medical marijuana businesses has cleared the Colorado Senate.

The Senate voted 24-11 Wednesday in favor of a "responsible medical marijuana vendor" designation. The optional designation would allow pot shops to train employees in state marijuana regulation and how to spot fake marijuana cards. In exchange, the businesses could get a break if they run afoul of state regulations. A similar designation already exists for the alcohol industry.

The marijuana industry backed the measure. It now heads to the House.

US Rep Gardner To Host Art Reception

Congressman Cory Gardner is hosting a reception Friday in honor of this year's 4th Congressonal District Art Competition. Gardner says the reception will feature nearly 30 original pieces of art from local high school students...






TAG: Submissions for the competion are on display all week. The reception is scheduled for Friday afternoon at 4:30 pm at the Union Colony Civic Center located at 651 10th Avenue in Greeley.

Trooper Honored For Greeley Rescue (Revised)

KSIR-032112-Trooper Honored For Greeley Rescue-FM (REVISED!!!)









Script:
In November of 2010, young Brenndan Daviet fell through the ice while on a outing near The Greeley Family FunPlex. Fortunately for him, Colorado State Trooper Daniel Harrison Haley was nearby. Haley was off duty at the time, but rushed to the boy's rescue. And, although Haley fell through the ice too, he was able to reach the boy and bring him safely to shore. For that courageous act, Trooper Haley was among 21 recipients from across the country recognized by The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, based in Pittsburgh. . Those who are selected for recognition by the Commission are awarded the CARNEGIE MEDAL, and become eligible for financial considerations. Steel Baron Andrew Carnegie was inspired to start the fund after hearing rescue stories from a mine disaster that killed 181 people.

Kids Who Can't Read

KSIR-032112-Legislature Considers Bill To Hold Back Functionally Illiterate Kids - BOTH



A bill that recommends holding back students if they can't read by third grade won initial approval in the Colorado House yesterday. House Bill 1238 doesn't mandate holding functionally illiterate children back, but it does require schools to measure reading progress from kindergarten through third grade and hold discussions among teachers, principals and parents on whether to hold back a child. The decision on whether to hold a child back a grade would rest with the school district superintendent.

Trooper Honored For Greeley Rescue

KSIR-032112-Trooper Honored For Greeley Rescue-FM


In November of 2010, young Brenndan Daviet fell through the ice while on a outing near The Greeley Family FunPlex. Fortunately for him, Colorado State Trooper Daniel Harrison was nearby. Harrison was off duty at the time, but rushed to the boy's rescue. And, although Harrison fell through the ice too, he was able to reach the boy and bring him safely to shore. For that courageous act, Trooper Haley was among 21 recipients from across the country recognized by The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, based in Pittsburgh. . Those who are selected for recognition by the Commission are awarded the CARNEGIE MEDAL, and become eligible for financial considerations. Steel Baron Andrew Carnegie was inspired to start the fund after hearing rescue stories from a mine disaster that killed 181 people.

Transportation Officials Considering High Speed Rail Line Between Denver and Longmont

DENVER (AP) — The Regional Transportation District board is considering a recommendation to use both commuter rail and buses to provide rapid transit between Denver and Longmont until there's money to build a full rail line.

The board that is meeting Tuesday originally hoped to build a 41-mile northwest rail line from Denver to Longmont by 2020. Ballooning costs and lower-than-expected tax revenues to help fund construction prompted the district to reconsider.

Communities that would not get a rail line soon under the current proposal are opposing it, saying the board is not keeping its promises.

RTD still hopes to build a rail line to Longmont but that's not slated to happen until at least 2028.

More than 6 miles of the line, from Denver to south Westminster, is already funded and scheduled for completion in 2016.

Students Charged Over Pellet Gun Shootings

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — Two middle school students have been charged with reckless endangerment after three children were hit by pellets from a pellet gun.

Colorado Springs police say the shootings occurred Monday at Galileo Middle School. None of the victims were injured.

Police say two 13-year-old students have been suspended and were referred to the school district's disciplinary board.

Cement Plant To Burn Old Tires

PUEBLO, Colo. (AP) — A plan to burn old tires for fuel at a Pueblo cement plant is nearing final approval.

State air pollution regulators have issued a draft permit for GCC Rio Grande's proposal. The plant would use old tires piled up at the Midtown tire dump south of Fountain.

According to the Pueblo Chieftain (http://bit.ly/GBR0Wn ), the state will hold a 30-day public comment period before issuing a final permit.

Drunk Bicycle Thief Apologizes

ASPEN, Colo. (AP) — A bicycle owner says he bears no grudges against a remorseful drunk who returned his bike with a handwritten note of apology after it was stolen for a ride home.

Aspen resident Jay Maytin says he is just happy to be back on his bicycle.

The Pitkin County Sheriff's Office says the bike was left near the sheriff's office and police department. The note said "Sorry. I stole this bike. I rode it home. Please give it back." It was signed "Drunk."

Police tell the Aspen Times (http://bit.ly/GAML20) there were no witnesses.

State Graduation Rate Increases

According to a new report released by, a children's advocacy organization founded by General Colin Powell, the national graduation rate increased by 3.5-percent to 75.5-percent between 2001 and 2009. Colleen Wilbur with Americas Promise Alliance says Colorado's graduation rate remains above the national average...






TAG: According to this year's Building a Grad Nation Report, the number of so-called "drop-out factories," those schools with graduation rates below 60-percent, has fallen in Colorado from 32 in 2002 to just 15 in 2010.

WFCO Listening Tour in Sterling Thursday

KSIR-032012-WFCO Listening Tour in Sterling Thursday VO - ST











"What is the full potential of women and girls in Colorado?". That's the topic of conversation Thursday at 5:30 in NJC's Hays Student Center Ballroom when The Women's Federation of Colorado hosts a Listening Tour Stop to conduct an inclusive conversation within the Sterling area. Its one of several such events the WFCO is hosting across the state during the first quarter of 2012. Women of all ages and stations in life are invited to participate. Its free and open to the public. The finding from the tour will be used to guide the organizations policies and programs. To RSVP for the Sterling listening Tour, visit WFCO-dot-Org.

Brush School District Pursues Monsanto-Funded Grant

KSIR-032012-Bursh Pursuing Monsanto Grants - FM


The Brush school district is going after money from the "America's Farmers Grow Rural Education Grant", sponsored by The Monsanto Fund, but the need the support of local farmers to do it. The grants are awarded based on need, and community support. So, the more farmers who nominate the Brush School District, the better the chances of receiving some of the 2-point-3 million dollars being doled out to enhance math and science programs. Those eligible to nominate BHS must live and farm in Morgan County, be at least 21 years of age, farm at least 250 acres of corn or soybeans, 40 acres of open field vegetables or 10 acres of truck-farm vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers or cucumbers.
Brush School district officials say that, if they are awarded a 10 or 25-thousand dollar grant, it will go toward supporting a new greenhouse for use in plant science, ag fundamentals, ag business and natural resources classes.
The nomination process is simple. Eligible farmers can fill out a short nomination form at GrowRuralEducation.com or by calling 1-877-267-3332. A printed copy of the entry form and rules are available on this website or by calling the number.. The nomination period runs now through April 15.

Metal Thefts On The Rise

Local authorities say criminals are targeting cell phone towers to steal scrap metal. Morgan County sheriff Jim Crone says his office has seen a number of metal thefts in recent weeks...






TAG: If you have any information about these thefts, you are urged to call the Morgan County Sheriff's office at 542-3445.

Bear Sightings On The Rise

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — More bears are hitting the road in Colorado as warmer weather begins sweeping across the state.

The latest bear reports are in Colorado Springs and Teller County.

KKTV-TV reports Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife officials say they set a record last year with more than 1,000 calls about bears.

Lawmakers Hope For Positive Economic Outlook

DENVER (AP) — Colorado lawmakers are hoping for good news as state economists prepare to release their quarterly tax forecast.

Lawmakers are hopeful that Monday's numbers will show enough improvement in the economy that they won't have to make as many painful cuts as they've made in the past.

Some economists are predicting tax receipts are $50 million to $70 million higher than what state economists predicted in December.

CO Gun Law Under Fire

DENVER (AP) — A challenge to Colorado's law allowing concealed gun permits for residents only is going before a federal appeals court.

Arguments are scheduled Monday afternoon before a three-judge panel of the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a case involving Washington resident Gray Peterson. A federal judge last year tossed out Peterson's lawsuit filed against Denver and the state's Department of Public Safety. Peterson claims that being denied a concealed weapons permit because he's not a Colorado resident violates his Second Amendment rights to bear firearms.

According to gun rights groups, Colorado is one of 23 states, plus the District of Columbia to not honor a concealed weapons permit from Washington state.

A law pending in Congress would require states permitting concealed weapons laws to honor permits from other states.

Yuma County Fire Under Control

Fire crews have gained control of a fire in Yuma County. Darrell Moody has the details...






Yuma County Sheriff Chad Day says crews are monitoring the site of the Heartstrong fire for hot spots. The Civil Air Patrol is also on the scene, surveying the damage from the air. Sheriff Day says the evacuation order for a 224 square mile area has also been lifted. Officials say the weather is cooperating today and winds that whipped up flames over the weekend have calmed down. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Sterling Tree Planting Program

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Following on the heals of last week's announcement of a dead tree removal program, Sterling is putting this year's tree planting program into place...with a little twist. Drew Dawson has the details...









(Script):
In the past, to be eligible for the Street Tree Planting Program, trees had to be planted on the city right of way. However, with input from the Parks, Library and Recreation Board, this has been revised to allow for an exception. Where the sidewalk and curb are joined, trees can be planted at least five feet behind sidewalk and no more than 10 feet form the sidewalk, even if that's on private property. Property owners will be reimbursed for half of the retail price for all trees planted, but no more than $100 per tree. Applications are available from the Parks Library and Recreation Department at 970-522-9700. I'm Drew Dawson

Log Lane Village Elections Cancelled

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There will be no municipal elections in Log Lane Village this spring. The board of trustees made the move because there are no new candidates and no contested races. The Mayor and 4 trustees were re-appointed for an additional term. Because the municipal election was off, the board also voted to set the proposed mill levy increase for the coordinated county ballot this June, which would mean an increase of about 6-dollars per month for property owners. .

CO Rep Cory Gardner To Deliver Weekly GOP Address

Colorado Congressman Cory Gardner will deliver the Weekly Republican Address on Saturday. Gardner says he will discuss Republican efforts to lower gas prices...






TAG: President Obama has said publicly a number of times that the days of $2 per gallon gasoline are over. Gardner says the only way to lower gas prices domestically is to increase domestic production.

Colorado Gets Share of National Mortgage Settlement

DENVER (AP) — Colorado officials are preparing to announce how the state will spend its portion of a national mortgage settlement. A southeast Colorado prison closed to save money could see new life as a transitional housing center for veterans with the money.

The sweeping $25 billion mortgage settlement was announced in February.

Most of that settlement goes directly to homeowners affected by the mortgage crisis. But states were given $2.7 billion to spend as they wish. Colorado's share comes to about $51 million.

State law says that Attorney General John Suthers has the authority to spend most lawsuit settlements. Suthers is making the announcement with Gov. John Hickenlooper, whose office asked for some $5 million of the money to be used to remodel the former Fort Lyon Correctional Facility.

Community Responds To Accident at Kelley Beans

Authorities say a Hillrose-area man died Thursday morning when a massive pile of beans fell on him, suffocating the man. Morgan County sheriff Jim Crone says the report came in around 11:20 am and emergency officials from across the community responded to try to save 56-year-old Raymond Segura...






TAG: Sheriff Crone says OSHA is now investigating the incident to see if there were any safety code violations at Kelley Beans that contributed to Segura's death.

Tiger Salamander Named Colorado State Amphibian

DENVER (AP) — Colorado is getting an official state amphibian.

A bill making the western tiger salamander the top amphibian is being signed on Friday.

A Denver primary school class suggested the designation.

The western tiger salamander is found in every Colorado county.

Pine Beetles Pose Threat to CO Forests

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — University of Colorado researchers say mountain pine beetles that are devastating forests across the West are now breeding twice in some years.

Researchers say the beetles usually lay their eggs in late July or August. The larvae then burrow deeper into the bark, where they spend the winter. In the spring, the beetles emerge and fly away, seeking other trees.

According to the Boulder Daily Camera (http://bit.ly/w8qxE2 ), researchers saw the insects taking flight at odd times and determined they were breeding twice after emerging at the end of summer.

A 2011 aerial survey showed about 4.6 million acres in Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota have been affected since the first signs of the outbreak in 1996. That's up from about 4.3 million acres in 2010.

Logan County Fire Watch This Weekend

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Officials suggest you put off any outdoor burning you had planned until next week. Logan County is under a fire watch from tomorrow morning through Sunday evening. High winds and low humidity are forecast, which means any grass fire could get out of control rapidly.

Pot Dumped In Denver Park

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What do you do when you find a garbage bag full of marijuana abandoned in a city Park? Well, five people in Denver thought passing it out to other park visitors was a good idea. The Denver police disagreed with that decision and arrested them on undisclosed charges. About 30 people were in the park at the time, but no one seems to know where the garbage bag full of pot came from.

Ft. Morgan Library Book Sale on Saturday

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The annual book sale fundraiser for the Ft. Morgan Library is tomorrow. It opens at 9am for library friends and members. then, from 10 til 2, its open to the general public. Most paperbacks are 50-cents and hardcovers a dollar. The sale items also include children's books, cook books, DVD, CD's, audio books, VHS tapes, cassettes, and even some art work. The event is sponsored by The Friends of The Ft. Morgan Library.

Fort Morgan Holding Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Fort Morgan is preparing for this year's Easter Egg Hunt at City Park. Darrell Moody has the details...






The city of Fort Morgan's annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held Saturday, March 31, at City Park at 10 am. Children up to the age of 10 are invited to com search for eggs containing treats and prizes. The Easter Bunny himself will be on hand to greet northeast Colorado children. The egg hunt will be sectioned off by four different age groups. Parents of older children will not be allowed to assist in the Easter Egg Hunt but are encouraged to cheer the kids on. For more information, contact the Fort Morgan Rec Center at 542-3921.

Licensed Fishing Season Opens April 1

2012-2013 Fishing Licenses are now on sale. The 2012 license season begins April 1. Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesman Randy Hampton says the 2012 Colorado Fishing Brochure is also out...






TAG: Hampton says the brochure also has a breakdown of new state regulations as well as maps to help anglers find the best places to fish. You can purchase a fishing license at your neighborhood grocer or sporting goods store. Or you can stop by Parks and Wildlife Office in Brush where you can also find the Fishing Brochure.

Old Colorado City Easter Egg Hunt Canceled

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — The annual Old Colorado City Easter Egg Hunt has been canceled because organizers say parents were getting too aggressive.

Organizer Dave VanNess said the event has been held for a decade, but it has grown so big and parents were getting so aggressive he cancelled it.

VanNess said the event was creating more hard feelings instead of the fun they've always intended.

According to KKTV-TV (http://bit.ly/yjlaoe ), parents were supposed to stay behind a rope, but many broke that rule making things overcrowded and chaotic.

Denver PD Under Fire Over Search Warrants

DENVER (AP) — The Denver police independent monitor says too many officers are entering residences without a warrant and officers are refusing to disclose misconduct by their colleagues.

Complaints against Denver police officers declined 21 percent last year, but citizens are still complaining about discourtesy, improper procedures and inappropriate or unnecessary force.

According to the Denver Post, the monitor cited one case where Denver police officers called the fire department to let them into a house without a warrant to arrest a woman over a noise complaint.

CO Man Charged For Tying Up Cat

LAFAYETTE, Colo. (AP) — Police in Lafayette, Colo., have ticketed a man who is accused of tying his cat to a rock after the feline refused to go jogging.

Sgt. Fred Palmer says 19-year-old Seth Franco brought his cat on a leash to the path around Waneka Lake Park on Wednesday, but the cat was unable to keep up.

According to the Boulder Daily Camera, witnesses told police that Franco secured the cat's leash to a rock while he finished his run. A passer-by called police.

Franco was ticketed on suspicion of "domestic animal cruel treatment," a municipal offense.

Palmer says an ordinance in the city, about 20 miles north of Denver, "prohibits that kind of tethering."

The cat wasn't injured, so it was released to its owner.

Franco could not immediately be reached for comment.

Blago To Report To Littleton Prison

CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois' convicted ex-Gov. Rod Blagojevich has stepped of a plane in Colorado and his headed to a prison outside Denver to begin his 14-year prison term on corruption charges.

He must report to the prison 2 p.m. Thursday.

Jurors convicted Blagojevich on 18 counts, including charges that he tried to sell or trade President Barack Obama's old U.S. Senate seat.

He will be the state's second former governor currently in federal prison.

Sterling Helps With Dead Tree Removal

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The city of Sterling is once again offering a dead tree removal program. The program provides financial assistance to residential property owners for the removal of dead/dying Elm trees from private property. Qualifying applicants will be reimbursed by the city of Sterling for one-half the cost of each tree removed (up to a maximum of $250 per tree). Property owners must qualify on income level and they must reside at the address for which assistance is being requested. Commercial properties or rental units are not eligible. To qualify for the program, homeowners must make a written application to the city of Sterling, Department of Parks, Library and Recreation, before the tree is removed. All trees will be inspected by the city and approval will be made on a case-by-case basis. To receive an application and full details about the program, contact the city of Sterling Department of Parks, Library and Recreation at 421 N. Fourth St., Sterling, (970) 522-9700.

Former Illinois Governor Begins Prison Sentence in Littleton Today

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Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is set to begin serving a 14 year sentence at the Federal Prison in Littleton Today. Blagojevich was convicted of public corruption in June 2011 following allegations that he tried to sell the US Senate seat vacated when Barack Obama was elected president. Prosecutors said court-authorized wiretaps caught Blagojevich offering Obama’s Senate seat in exchange for personal gain, including a job with a nonprofit or union organization, corporate board posts for his wife, campaign contributions or a post in Obama’s administration. Aside from the charges of trying to sell the Senate seat, prosecutors also accused Blagojevich of using his position to obtain financial benefits for himself, his family and his campaign in exchange for jobs, contracts and appointments to state boards to supporters. They accused Blagojevich of accelerating the scheme in 2008 to accumulate funds before a new state ethics law would have limited his ability to raise money from people and companies that were doing business with the state.

Fort Morgan Spring Clean Up

Fort Morgan Officials want to get the word out about their annual spring cleanup project. City Clerk John Brennan says if you have any large items you need to get rid of this is your chance...






TAG: Brennan says the city will not accept televisions, computers, monitors or other electronics.

CO Employees Under Microscope

DENVER (AP) — State employees are under the microscope as the Colorado Legislature begins revising employee protections.

A House committee was scheduled Wednesday to examine a bipartisan proposal to rewrite Progressive-Era rules about how employees can be hired and fired.

Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper has called on lawmakers to update those rules. Many of the changes will have to be approved by voters because the protections are in the state constitution.

The changes include revised pay standards and big changes to the so-called "bumping" rule, in which senior employees could "bump" newer hires if they're laid off.

Colorado's public employee union is neutral on the bill. The executive director of the union says employees like parts of the bill, including limits on temporary work.

Tax Break Bill Goes to Gov for Signature

DENVER (AP) — A potential tax break on business equipment is headed to the desk of Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper.

The Senate voted 34-0 Wednesday to give final approval to the measure that allows municipalities to control how much of the taxes they want to exempt.

The legislation would give municipalities the choice to exempt all taxes on equipment, including office furniture, for new businesses. Current law caps such exemptions at 50 percent.

Republicans have been pushing for years for a tax break on business equipment. Democrats agreed to the measure this year because it gives local government a choice of whether to expand the tax break.

CO Man Accused of Biting and Choking Girlfriend

A Colorado Springs man is facing charges for the choking and biting assault of his girlfriend. Police arrested 23-year-old Andris Coats late Monday at a home in the eleven-hundred block of Verde Drive after forcing their way inside while responding to a 9-1-1 call. Police say they found Coats on top of his 23-year-old victim and that he'd choked, cut and bitten the woman. She remains hospitalized with facial lacerations, body contusions and other injuries at Memorial Hospital.

Advocates For The Disabled Organize

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Colorado's only state wide organization consisting of people with disabilities and their non-disabled allies working together to advocate for disability rights is holding a meeting to reorganize on March 21st. The Northeast Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition is set to gather in the Pawnee Room at Sterling Regional MedCenter from 11:30 a.m. to 2 pm. Cross-disability means members have all types of disabilities. Doris Williams, patient advocate/patient relations coordinator from Sterling Regional MedCenter, will be the featured speaker. For more information and to register for the meeting, call Howdy Nielsen at (970) 520-0970 by 5 p.m. Monday March 19.

Brush Considers Recycling Program

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The Brush City Council heard an update on a proposed recycling program at Monday's meeting. As it stands now, a hub and spoke model is favored, allowing area communities to position roll off containers at drop off locations. Those would then be moved to Morgan County's Landfill where the material would be baled. Next a a waste disposal company would pick up the bales and later sort the materials. The council felt that the "single stream method"...having the disposal company sort the material...is more consumer friendly, and likely to lead to greater participation. According to City Administrator Monty Torres, if there is enough volume and interest in the preliminary stages, curb-side service could later become available for residents of Brush

Fort Morgan PD Releases 2011 Annual Report

The Fort Morgan Police Department has released the 2011 Annual Report. Details from Darrell Moody...






The nearly 60-page document was released Tuesday. In the report's mission statement, Fort Morgan Police Chief Keith Kuretich thanked city officials for their cooperation and support. Kuretich thanked the Mayor, City Council and Acting City Manager. The report itself laid out the department's goals and highlighted administration staff and officers. There were also summaries of local crime trends, traffic accidents and other calls for service. The 2011 Annual Report also calls attention to special assignments, officer training and accountability. The report also took time out to honor past Fort Morgan police chiefs.

Elderly Fort Morgan Woman Scammed

Authorities say an elderly Fort Morgan woman was recently scammed out of $3,725 by someone who claimed to be a representative of a foreign lottery. The unidentified, 82-year-old victim was told they had won but had to pay taxes and other fees before they would be able to collect their prize. Officer Roger Doll with the Fort Morgan Police Department says the victim sent several checks overseas before realizing it was a scam...






TAG: Doll says it's important for folks to remember, if you did not enter a lottery, you can not win. Doll also points out that foreign lotteries are illegal in the US. If you have any information about this or any other scam, contact Fort Morgan Police. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Logan Co Red Cross Fund Raiser Set

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The "I's" are dotted and the "T's" are crossed for this year's "Your Heart Our Hands" dinner, auction and dance benefitting the Logan County Northern Colorado Chapter of The Red Cross. The event is set for Friday March 23rd at The Sterling Elks Club. The auction includes several unique items, including a quilted created out of silk ties, one of which belonged to Donald Trump. Tickets are available through this Thursday by calling 970-520-5120.

Ft Morgan Council Grapples With Liability Issues

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The Ft. Morgan City Council is grappling with The City's special events insurance policy. Drew Dawson has the details...








Ft. Morgan's city council reaffirmed an often overlooked policy requring special event producers using city-owned venues to name the city as "additionally insured" on event insurance. According to City Attorney and Acting City Manager Jeff Wells, the requirements had been routinely waived by staff members who did not have the authority to do so. Further clouding the issue, the City's insurer, C-I-R-S-A, encourages the "additionally insured" requirement for special events, but doesn't demand it from customers. The matter came to the fore because a run, sponsored by Colorado Plains Medical Center, is being asked to add the city to the event's issurance policy...significantly increasing the sponsors costs...where in years past they've received a waiver. Mayor Terry McAlister supports a hard and fast policy to protect the city from liability. He warned that building exceptions into the policy is, in effect, abolishing it. Ultimately, the council agreed that granting exceptions is not a good idea, but directed The City Attorney and Risk Management Director to look into co-sponsoring the event so that there would potentially be enough insurance coverage.

Fort Morgan Senior Center to Host St. Patrick's Day Party

The Fort Morgan Senior Center will host their very own St Patrick's Day party this Wednesday. City Clerk John Brennan says it's an annual event for local seniors...






TAG: Registration and payment can be made at the Recreation Center located on State Street. For more information, you can call the Senior Center at 542-3922.

Flags Lowered To Honor Fallen Air Force Officer

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Flags on all public buildings across the state are flying at Half Staff today...This on order of Governor Hickenlooper. The move is in tribute to United States Airforce Captain Ryan Hall, who died in Africa on February 18th in an airplane crash.

Dairymen Scoop Up Turkey Farm Land

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Another sign that our Agri-business picture is improving. The Greeley Tribune is reporting that much of the 5-thousand acres once occupied by Butterball's Turkey Farms is being purchased by dairy farmers. The investments are being driven by the opening of a new cheese plant in Greeley operated by Leprino Foods. The plant expects to need 7-million pounds of milk daily in a couple of years...an expansion tht will require production from an additional 60-thousand dairy cows in the region.

Kindle Class at Library - ST

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Thanks to new technological innovations, you can know borrow books from the Sterling Public Library to use on your Kindle e-reader. There's a class scheduled tonight at 7pm to show you how. Library officials say its an easy process, and its free if you have a valid Sterling Public Library card. The service is available for other e-reader devices as well. A training session for those is set for Saturday March 17th at 2pm.

Knights of Columbus Food Drive Scheduled

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The Sterling Knights of Columbus announced plans for their annual Benefit Bingo Night aimed at helping restock the shelves at the cooperating Ministry of Logan County Food Pantry. its set for March 27th at the Knights of Columbus Hall on South 11th Avenue in Sterling beginning at 7pm. The food pantry needs items including pancake mix and syrup, canned chili, instant potatos, instant cocoa mix, jiffy muffin and corn muffin mix,peanut butter, spam, canned chicken and tuna, boxed meals and instant oatmeal. Last year, the Knights of Columbus event took in 11-hundred pounds of food and more than 1-thousand dollars.

Greeley Adopts Open Container Law

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Greeley is hoping to become the first city in Colorado to allow open alcohol containers on the streets. Many business owners say it will attract people back to historic downtown Greeley, which has struggled to draw crowds in recent years. The city council adopted an ordinance at their Tuesday session allowing open containers on 9th street between 5pm and midnight on Friday evenings during the summer months. The move follows a new state law allow municipalities to designate open container entertainment districts. -

Fort Morgan City Council Updates Animal Ordinance

There's still no limit to the number of animals a property owner in Fort Morgan can own, but in tweaking the city's animal ordinance, the council did say that properties must be kept up, so as not to become a health hazard. Council also dropped licensing requirements for pets inside the city limits, but pet owners still need to make sure their pets rabies vaccines up to date.

Gardner Part of "Distinguished Speakers"

Congressman Cory Gardner will be in Sterling this coming Wednesday, March 14, for a Sterling Rotary Club meeting and Town Hall Meeting. Its part of the Rotary's Rotary's "Distinguished Speakers" series. Everyone's welcome to the Plainsman Grill that day, at noon to hear from the congressman, and Rotary officials say that includes civic groups.

Aims Community College freezing tuition, fees

GREELEY, Colo. (AP) — The oil and gas industry is getting credit for keeping tuition at one college down.

The board of Aims Community College voted Wednesday not to raise tuition and fees for students attending the school in 2012-13.

The Greeley Tribune reports the college unexpectedly received $2 million in revenue from additional property tax collections this year, and Aims Chief Financial Officer Michael Kelly says the oil and gas industry is the school's biggest source of property tax revenue.

Aims is in Weld County, which has benefited from energy companies' interest in the Niobrara formation.

Kelly says Aims has been fortunate with oil and gas revenues, and officials felt it was only fair to pass that on to students.

Colorado panel extends off-road vehicle program

DENVER (AP) — The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission has approved $300,000 to extend a pilot program designed to make sure off-highway vehicle users are following state regulations.

State Trails Program Manager Tom Morrissey says that in the first year of the program in 2011, rangers saw little evidence of off-trail damage but did report a need for more trail maintenance. He says officers from Colorado State Parks, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management contacted 10,000 riders in problem areas identified by environmental and recreation groups, and fewer than 5 percent were issued warnings or citations — mostly for failing to comply with vehicle registration requirements.

Commissioner Jim Pribyl says the project shows law-enforcement visibility deters illegal off-trail riding.

Weekend at Bernie's'-like case suspects sentenced

DENVER (AP) — Two men accused of driving their dead friend around the Denver area and running up a bar tab on his account have been sentenced.

Robert Young and Mark Rubinson were given two years of probation in connection with the death of 43-year-old Jeffrey Jarrett. They also must perform community service and pay restitution.

They had pleaded guilty to abusing a corpse, with Young also pleading guilty to identity theft.

Jarrett's family said Thursday the court could not give either defendant the punishment they really deserved.

Authorities said the two went to Jarrett's home in August and found him unresponsive. Instead of calling police, Young and Rubinson put him in a car and went out. They used his credit card to pay for drinks.

Young said he thought Jarrett was drunk, not deceased. Jarrett's death was deemed an accident.

Hawaii's Lt. Gov. Calls Littleton Couple To Apologize

(Littleton, CO) -- A Littleton couple received a personal phone call from Hawaii's Lieutenant Governor Brian Schatz Thursday night to apologize for an incident in a Kauai airport last Monday. Mike and Georgia Young were supposed to return Monday from celebrating their 50th anniversary in Hawaii, but a rainstorm caused all flights to be grounded. According to Hawaii's State Department of Transportation, an airport conference room should have been opened to the stranded travelers for the night. Instead, an airport security guard locked them outside in the storm. The Young's spent the night on the floor of a Red Cross shelter without their luggage and eventually made it back to Colorado by Wednesday.

Spring Clean Up Dates Announced

The City's annual Spring Clean Up Week will take place March 24 through April 1, 2012.During this week, the Streets and Sanitation Departments will issue FREE pickup of items that you want disposed of. Please review the flier for important details.

If you have any questions, please call the Sanitation Dept. at (970) 542-3985.

Blood supply remains low in NE Colorado

BRUSH, Colo. - The blood supply for East Morgan County Hospital and
Banner Health in northeastern Colorado is extremely volatile. Currently, there has been a high demand for all blood types, causing type A- to be in short supply. All blood types are needed at this time. To address this need East Morgan County Hospital is holding a blood drive on Mar. 29. Anyone can be a donor.

In less than an hour your blood donation can save up to two lives. Because blood cannot be manufactured, donors are needed to increase the blood bank’s inventory.

The North Colorado Medical Center Mobile Blood Bank will be on site in the south parking lot, Thursday, Mar. 29 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. to draw blood. To schedule an appointment call 842-6257, appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcomed.

“Donating blood gives back to our community and helps our patients when a transfusion is needed,” said Nestor. This opportunity is open to the public, new donors are always welcomed.

“The donated units will go into inventory and are used for our patients,” said Cindy Nestor, EMCH laboratory manager. “On average one patient transfusion requires two units.”

If you are going to donate blood, please remember to drink plenty of water and eat. All donors need to bring a driver’s license or a photo I.D. with date of birth.

For more information about the blood drive contact EMCH lab at 970-842-6257.

Seniors to be Puttin' on the Green!

The Fort Morgan Senior Center is hosting a St. Patty’s Day party on Wednesday, March 14, at 2 p.m. The cost is $3 per person.

Join us for the “wearin o’ the green” along with games, prizes and refreshments.

Registration and payment can be made at the Recreation Center at 528 State Street. This event is for adults age 55 and over.

For more information call (970) 542-3921 or (970) 542-3922.

CO Parks and Wildlife Announces Check-Off Campaign

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is running their annual fundraising campaign and all you have to do to help is file your taxes. Parks Spokesman Joe Lewandowski says the majority of their budget comes from hunting and fishing licenses, but for those who do not hunt or fish, there's an easy way to contribute...






TAG: Lewandowski says over the past 15 years, Colorado's Wildlife Check-Off campaign has raised nearly $350,000.

E-waste Recycling Plan

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Thanks to a partnership with neighboring counties, Logan County residents can know safely and legal recycle electronic waste, such as old computers and monitors. County commissioners agreed to a plan at their meeting earlier this week where in a trailer in Sterling will recieve the e-waste from Logan and other participating counties. When it is full, it will be taken to a Denver recycling center. The multi-county partnership will keep costs down. The arrangement is timely because the state legistature is currently considering a bill that would make it illegal to dump e-waste in landfills.

Wiggins Water Wells Need Work

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The Town of Wiggins Water Wells have needed work for a couple of years. Now it looks like that can be done...and it won't cost as much as expected thanks to The County. Tests on Wiggins Town Wells done by the Northeast Colorado Health Department last year resulted in recommendations that infants not drink the water. New wells were drilled recently and the tests showed good water. The next step is to build a reverse osmosis water treatment plant on top of the wells, and that requires a special use permit...which normally costs 73-hundred dollars. However, the Board of Morgan County Commissioners voted unanimously to waive the fees, part of which were to cover the costs of a special Morgan County Planning Commission meeting on march 26th to expedite the permit. If the planning commission approves the permit, county commissioners should be able to vote on it in mid-April.

How Many Credits?

The RE-1 Valley Board of Education will talk more about it on March 19, but they've started discussing upping requirements to graduate from high school. Superintendent Betty Summers said revisiting those requirements is required by law. Students, parents, faculty and staff have all given their input on the requirements, so now Summers said administrators will work on how many class periods students at Sterling High School and Caliche High School will have versus how many credits students will graduate with. New requirements would start with the graduating class of 2014.

Airport Can Build Longer Runway

Fort Morgan Municipal Airport, you are cleared for a new runway. That's from the FAA. The Federal Aviation Administration said the new runway the airport's been working on for years shows "no significant" environmental impact. So its a go. That's what Community Development Director David Callahan told Fort Morgan City Council meeting Tuesday night. So now, the city can start working on acquiring land for the new, longer runway.

CSU AD gives thoughts on potential stadium sites

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Colorado State athletic director Jack Graham says any new football stadium on campus should be within 400 to 500 yards of the university's iconic, tree-filled Oval.

Graham's comments Wednesday to the Northern Colorado Commercial Association of Realtors gave hints of where he would like to see a new facility. He is co-chairing a committee studying whether the university should pursue an on-campus stadium.

The Coloradoan reports Graham says having an on-campus stadium is critical to creating a game-day tradition that boosts the university's reputation, alumni donations, out-of-state enrollment and economic benefits for the city of Fort Collins.

Graham also says the stadium should be easily accessible by bus, so people don't have to rely on cars to get there.

Bill tying lawmaker pay to budget passes 1st vote

DENVER (AP) — A bill to suspend Colorado lawmakers' pay if they fail to reach agreement on the state budget on time got its first approval despite unease from lawmakers who questioned the necessity of the legislation.

The bill from Democratic Senate President Brandon Shaffer cleared a committee controlled by his party Wednesday but with little enthusiasm. Shaffer says the bill resonates with constituents but acknowledges it's not popular inside the Capitol.

Shaffer's proposal needs to pass another committee before it reaches the full Senate. The bill would suspend lawmakers' pay and benefits if they don't finalize the budget before they adjourn for the year.

Democratic Sen. Betty Boyd amended the bill to include the formation of a study committee to review the state's budget process.

But she says she doesn't think the process is broken.

Colo. backs off proposal to trim early voting

DENVER (AP) — Early voting will remain at 15 days in Colorado this fall after a GOP House committee changed a bill that would have curbed early voting to a week.

The voting measure still makes some changes to how Coloradans vote. It would allow counties to set up large "vote centers" in heavy election years, instead of requiring vote centers to be set up during slower off-year elections.

The bill would also allow county election officials not to have voter information cards forwarded to voters who have moved. Some voting advocates opposed the change, but others argued that forwarding voter cards would only lead to voters receiving incorrect information about where they cast ballots.

The proposal awaits a vote by the full House.

Biker Bill Goes Down In Flames

(Denver, CO) -- A proposed law to ban discrimination against people wearing motorcycle garb failed in the state legislature. The proposal to add "unconventional attire" to the state statute that bars discrimination in public accommodations was defeated in a House committee yesterday. Opponents of the bill said it went too far in controlling private businesses.

Bill Finally Signed After Costing Taxpayers $3.8-Million

(Denver, CO) -- A cost-saving bill is now law after taxpayers shelled out an estimated three-point-eight-million dollars extra. House Bill 1005 was signed into law yesterday afternoon, four minutes after it arrived from the Democratic-controlled state Senate. The bill allows local governments to invest in downgraded U.S. securities and was costing Colorado taxpayers about 164-thousand dollars a day in lost investment earnings. House Republicans never fully explained why the bill was held up for nearly a month in their chamber.

Boulder Scientists Monitoring Biggest Solar Storm In Years

(Boulder, CO) -- The Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder is monitoring the biggest solar storm in years. Two massive X-class flares that erupted from the sun's surface Tuesday afternoon were expected to slam into the earth early today. The geomagnetic storm reportedly has the potential to disrupt some radio communications, global positioning systems and power grids.

Get Tax Help

Morgan Community College students are helping working families with tax preparation for the 4th consecutive year. Through the program, "Tax Help Colorado", the students have completed more than 285 returns amounting to more than a half million dollars in Federal and State refunds for participants. The service is available to families earning up to 49-thousand dollars per year. Its available by appointment at the Morgan County Family Center, 800 West Platte Ave, suite 1, through April 13th. The number to schedule an appointment is 970-867-9606.

Brush Fire

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A grass fire near Pawnee power plant led to partial evacuation of the facility near Brush yesterday afternoon. Morgan County Sheriff Jim Crone says about 150 acres of pasture land burned, but plant property was never seriously threatened and no injuries were reported. Welders working on a corral apparently sparked the blaze. There was a Red Flag warning prohibiting open fires in Morgan County at the time the fire broke out.

MCC Students Assist With Tax Preparation

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Morgan Community College students are helping working families with tax preparation for the 4th consecutive year. Through the program, "Tax Help Colorado", the students have completed more than 285 returns amounting to more than a half million dollars in Federal and State refunds for participants. The service is available to families earning up to 49-thousand dollars per year. Its available by appoointment at the Morgan County Family Center, 800 West Platte Ave, suite 1, through April 13th. The number to schedule an appointment is 970-867-9606.

Police Issue Warning Regarding Burglaries

Local authorities are warning residents to lock their doors and be on the lookout. Fort Morgan Police Public Information Officer Roger Doll says so far this spring, they've seen an alarming crime trend...






TAG: Doll says local residents are being urged to take extra precautions and to contact police immediately if you witness anything that looks suspicious or unusual. You can call the Fort Morgan Police Department Tipline at 542-3411

Wiggins School Board Could Find Somce Extra Cash

When the Wiggins Board of Education meets tonight for its meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Wiggins Elementary School, they'll talk about some extra funding they might get. Superintendent Steve Neel will tell the board that there's a supplemental funding bill in the legislator that could mean the school district will have some money to make repairs to some of its buildings.

Colorado snowpack up, but not enough

DENVER (AP) — Forecasters say February snowstorms helped increase snowpack in Colorado, but not enough to solve the state's water problems.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Tuesday that statewide snowpack increased to 81 percent of average, up 9 percentage points from the 72 percent of average recorded on Feb. 1.

Forecasters say despite these gains, this year's snowpack continues to lag well behind last year's totals.

The South Platte basin is in the best shape with a snowpack that's 89 percent of average. The Yampa/White basin is the lowest at 74 percent.

All major basins in Colorado are expected to have below average runoff conditions this spring and summer.

However, reservoir storage is above average in most of the state and that's expected to ease any late-summer shortages.

A-Basin plans to end ski season in early June

KEYSTONE, Colo. (AP) — Arapahoe Basin isn't planning on another late end to the ski season.

Last season, the ski area on the Continental Divide ended daily operations in early June, but it kept its lifts running on weekends until July 4. There was so much spring snow last season that the resort still had a 62-inch base in mid-June.

A-Basin hasn't had quite as much snow this winter. It was reporting a 53-inch base at mid-mountain Tuesday.

It says it plans to close in early June this year.

Human bones found buried at Suncor plant site

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (AP) - Coroner's officials are evaluating human bones that were found on Suncor Energy's property in Commerce City to see if they can determine how the person died.

Suncor employees working to place a water line at the company's plant found the bones last week.

Coroner Monica Broncucia Jordan said Tuesday it appears the bones have been there for some time and that the remains appear to be from one person.

She says the bones will be evaluated to try to determine the sex, age and ancestry of the person and how the person died.

State Senator Greg Brophy Defends Tweets

(Denver, CO) -- State Senator Greg Brophy is defending his Twitter messages supporting Rush Limbaugh. The Republican senator from Wray said Limbaugh made a mistake in calling Sandra Fluke a "slut" and a "prostitute," but defended Limbaugh as a, quote, "hero to the conservative movement." Brophy went on to post a disparaging message about Fluke, and he's now being criticized for his "war on women."

120 Longmont High School Students Test Positive For TB

(Longmont, CO) -- Parents in Longmont are concerned after 120 students test positive for a latent form of tuberculosis. Denver Health Medical reports one student showed active symptoms of the disease, with 13-percent of those recently tested having a noncontagious form.






Student Kori Rarrick worries about his health.

Onlline Classified Ads: Buyer Beware

Fort Morgan Police are warning northeast Colorado residents to be careful when responding to online classified ads. Public Information Officer Roger Doll says whether you're a potential buyer or seller, there are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself...






TAG: Doll says in some cases, buyers end up purchasing stolen property so it's important to look at the item's serial number and report anything you believe to be a potentially fraudulent transaction.

Allocating CO's Share of National Mortgage Settlement

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Housing for homeless veterans, affordable housing and foreclosure assistance programs are being considered for Colorado's share of a national settlement with mortgage lenders. We are getting about $205 million as part of a $25 billion settlement with the nation's five largest mortgage lenders. Most of that money will go to help people directly affected by foreclosure problems, but there will be about $52 million left over for state spending. Attorney General John Suthers wants to make sure the money is spent on foreclosure or housing-related concerns and not on other state programs.

City Manager Question Could Be Settled Tonight

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The Ft. Morgan City council may give us their final answer tonight on the question regarding combining the City Manager and City Attorney roles. Jeff Wells has been handling both responsibilities on an interim basis. Some council members want to make that permanent. Others feel the city is better served with the roles and responsibilities handled by two people. Although a decision is expected tonight, it is also possible that The Council will vote to put if off until a later date.

Coloradans' complaints against businesses are up

DENVER (AP) — The number of business complaints Colorado consumers are filing with the state attorney general's office is rising.

The office said Monday that consumers filed 7,297 complaints last year, which is up almost 13 percent from 2010 and about 54 percent from 2009. Colorado Attorney General John Suthers says the increase shows consumers know how to report scams.

Financial planning and management consultants were the subject of the most complaints filed last year, with 410.

But the business that was named in the most complaints last year was Dalbey Education Institute, which state and federal prosecutors have accused of airing misleading infomercials.

The company is fighting a lawsuit filed by state and federal prosecutors making those allegations.