Monday, April 30, 2012

Brush Middle School Stages Holocaust Drama Tonight

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Tonight (mon 4/30) at 7 O'clock, the Brush Middle School Drama Club is staging the production, "Badge of Dishonor: A Holocaust Drama". The one act play is being performed tonight only. Tickets, which range from 2-dollars for students to 4-dollars for adults, are available at the door. This production will be unique in that all attendees will be given the name of a Jewish man, woman or child who suffered during the holocaust. At the end of the evening, the audience will find out whether or not the individual who's name they have actually survived. -



Qwest Phone Rate Hike Okayed by Supreme Court

KSIR-043012-Supreme Court Okays Phone Rate Hike - BOTH


The Colorado Supreme Court says its okay for Qwest to hike your phone rates. The rulling came after consumer groups questioned whether Qwest had proved the increase was necessary. The new rate is 17-dollars per month...up from 15-dollars per month. The ruling also affects message maximum rates and other services.






Kayla Chadwick Searches Yield No New Clues

A pair of searches this weekend in Morgan and Logan counties uncovered no new clues in the search for Kayla Chadwick. Kayla's mother, Robin Adams says turnout was lower this week so they did not get to cover as much ground...






TAG: Adams says she has been in contact with Texas-based EquuSearch and she hopes to bring them in to help look for her missing 17-year-old daughter. Authorities say Chadwick disappeared March 27 after a fight with her boyfriend. A $3,500 reward is being offered for information leading to her safe return.

Friday, April 27, 2012

Weekend Searches Planned for Missing Teen

The search for Kayla Chadwick continues with a pair of searches planned for Saturday in Fort Morgan and Sunday in Sterling. Kayla's mother, Robin Adams, says they're going to focus on a remote area for Saturday's search...






TAG: Volunteers will be meeting Saturday morning at 8am at Jensen's Onion Farm at the intersection of Barlow Road and Riverview Avenue. Volunteers are also holding a fundraising bake sale and barbecue lunch. For more information on the searches, call Chastity Houser at 970-380-0595.

Fire Compensation Commission Proposed

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Saying the state has a moral obligation to make amends to the victims of the Lower North Fork fire, legislators are moving toward creating a commission to offer some financial compensation. Under the plan, there'd be no payouts for non-economic damages...and only damages not covered by the victims insurance would be considered. A bill proposing the commission was introduced yesterday.






DNA Test Exonerates Colorado Man

KSIR-042712-DNA Exonerates Man Sentenced To Life Without Parole-BOTH

A man who served nearly 16 years in prison for the 1994 rape and murder of a Palisade woman has been exonerated by new testing of DNA evidence. 51-year-old Robert Dewey is scheduled to appear in court Monday for a hearing that is expected to result in his release. Dewey was sentenced in 1996 to life in prison without parole after he was convicted of killing Jacie Taylor. She was found dead in the bathtub of her apartment on June 4, 1994. The Mesa County district attorney's office has not commented on the new developments.
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Thursday, April 26, 2012

CSP Announces 9th Annual "Take it to the Track"

Colorado teen drivers with a lead foot are invited by the Colorado State Patrol to "Take It To The Track!" this spring and summer on Wednesday nights between now and October that are hosted by Bandimere Speedway in Morrison...






TAG: Trooper Nate Reed says drivers can go head to head against anyone the want including local law enforcement and Colorado State Troopers. For more information, log onto www.bandimere.com.

Electrical Outage Tonight

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Some Fort Morgan residents may experience a loss of electric power early Friday Morning. City power and light crews are set to make repairs on the portion of the electrical system that caused a 30-minute black out this morning. The scheduled outage will begin at 11:59 p.m. Thursday, and should be completed no later than 1 a.m. Friday. Affected customers will include those in areas from Main Street west and most of the city south of the railroad tracks.

Officials say agricultural producers should be aware that the power interruption could affect irrigation south of town; And, residents should plan for the effect of the outage on alarm clocks, medical equipment and other electrical appliances overnight.

Greeley Gets Goats This Weekend

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Greeley gets the goats this weekend...The Goat Extravaganza, that is. The event runs tomorrow through Sunday at Island Grove Regional Park. 7 shows are planned. The Greeley Goat Extravaganza was created to teach young people in the 4-H goat project how to show, train and care for their goats. Admission to the shows is free of charge for spectators.





Downtown Brush Clean Up Day Set

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Next Saturday, May 5th, has been designated "annual DownTown Clean Up Day" in Brush. Volunteer workers are set to touch up the 100, 200, and 300 blocks of downtown, including the alley ways. The targets include trash and debris, weeds in walkways and gutters, and dirty sidewalks. The fire department is scheduled to wash sidewalks on Clayton, Edison and Edmunds Streets. The clean up effort runs from 9 til 11:30. If you'd like to volunteer, call the Brush Area Chamber of Commerce at 842-2666.



Second Annual Hospitle Hustle Coming

The City of Fort Morgan is one of the sponsors of the 2nd Annual Hospital Hustle taking place on Saturday, May 12th. Proceeds benefit the Fort Morgan Community Hospital Association. The 5K race begins at 9:00 am and the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk begins at 9:05 am. There are several categories being awarded and everyone entering the race will be a free t-shirt and ribbon. Dogs and strollers also welcome. Register early using the link below to the Registration Form and Release Form. Race Day Registration is from 7:30-8:30 am. For more information, call Sandy Engle at (970) 542-3346 or Connie Weingarten at (970) 542-4366.

State Democrats Push Buy American Bill

DENVER (AP) — A Democratic proposal to give preference to state contractors that use American-made products, supplies, and materials appears headed for certain defeat in a Republican committee.

The House committee on Wednesday rejected a similar contracting preference for bidders that agree to employ Colorado workers.

The "Buy American" bill cleared the Democratic Senate earlier this month, but all Republicans in that chamber voted against it. It's being heard in a House committee Thursday.

Republicans say that contracting preferences don't create jobs and only lead to more paperwork for government bureaucrats. Democrats argue that tax dollars fund contracts and should be used to boost domestic manufacturing.

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Wednesday, April 25, 2012

US Rep Gardner To Host Job Fair

Congressman Cory Gardner is partnering with Weld County Employment Services and Aames Community College to host a job fair this afternoon in Greeley. Gardner says job seekers from across northeast Colorado are encouraged to attend...






TAG: The job fair is being held this afternoon from 4-to-6 at the Island Grove Park Exhibition Building located at 525, North 15th Avenue in Greeley. For more information, call Gardner's Fort Collins office at 970-817-4848.

Search Continues for Kayla Chadwick

It's been four weeks since 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick went missing. The Fort Morgan teen disappeared March 27, after a fight with her boyfriend. Kayla's mother Robin Adams says she will continue to search until she finds her daughter...






TAG: Friends and family are organizing another search this weekend. Volunteers will meet Saturday morning at Jensen Onion on the corner of Riverview Avenue and Barlow Road. Organizers have also set up a facebook page where people can post leads and learn more about the search effort.

Drug Dealers Busted in Morgan County

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Several people were arrested Monday evening following a three month investigation into sale of dangerous drugs in Morgan County by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Morgan Police Department, Brush Police Department, Log Lane Marshal’s Office and Eastern Colorado Plains Drug Task Force, involving undercover purchases of methamphetamines and prescription medications.

All were arrested on warrants following grand jury indictments on charges of Conspiracy, Possession and/or Distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Substance.

Those arrested are · Heather Marie Kolman, age 35, of Brush.· Gregory Anthony Montano Jr., age 32 of Brush,· Arthur Lawrence Jiminez, age 46 of Fort Morgan
Keith Fletcher, age 45 of Log Lane, · Jessica Renee Montez, age 32 of rural Fort Morgan,· Lynda Marie Montez, age 31 of rural Fort Morgan,· and Jay William Gergen, age 42 of rural Fort Morgan. · Earlier during the investigation, Danni Robison, age 48 of Brush, was arrested.

During the operation, over 100 grams of methamphetamine were seized, along with Ecstasy and Vicodin pills, and a .38 revolver was purchased from Fletcher who has a prior conviction for drug charges. Investigators also purchased a total of 156 tablets of Methadone and 4 Fentanyl patches from Montano.


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Morgan County Milk and Cookies This Saturday

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This Saturday, The Girl Scouts of Colorado and The Western Dairy Association are pairing up for a new program called "Milk and Cookies". The event is designed to support girl scout programming, and provide children and families with educational information about calcium, bone health and nutrition by way of hands-on information stations and games...all while enjoying plenty of girl scout cookies and a variety of diary products. Several "Milk and Cookies" events are planned for locations across the state. The one this Saturday is from 1 til 4 at the 4-H Building at the Morgan County Fairgrounds in Brush.

Cow Found In McDonald's Drive Thru

BRUSH, Colo. (AP) — What did the dairy cow order when she got to the drive-thru window at McDonalds? Nothing — she just wanted a little attention.

That's what Sandy Winn says was the reason her cow, Darcy, wandered from her pen Friday and ended up at takeout window of the fast-food restaurant a half-mile away in Brush, Colo.

Winn tells KUSA-TV (http://on9news.tv/JDk30A ) that Darcy is a good cow until she's bored — and then she goes looking for attention.

Winn says she didn't know Darcy had escaped her pen until police called asking if the family owned a dairy cow. She says they told her it was "up at McDonalds," so she fetched the cow and took her home.

Brush police clerk Vivian Llewellyn joked Tuesday that Darcy "didn't get her burger."

New Leadership For Logan Co Tourist Center

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The new coordinator for the Logan County Tourist Center is a familiar face in these parts. The Logan County Board of County Commissioners hired Marilee Johnson for the position beginning May 1st. In her new role, Johnson will oversee operation of the Logan County Tourist Center, and, in cooperation with The Chamber of Commerce, she'll also play a key role in marketing Logan County. Johnson brings more than 20 years of professional and volunteer experience in Logan County to the position. She was news editor for the South Platte Sentinel, a member of the Logan County Fair Board, a volunteer driver for meals on wheels, and a serves on the Logan County Crime Stoppers Board of Directors.


Local Students to Visit Historic City Hall

A group of local students will get an up close and personal lesson in local government. Fort Morgan city clerk John Brennan says a social studies class from the Baker Central School will be visiting the city hall Thursday for a special lesson...






TAG: Brennan says the students will hear first hand from the Mayor and Council Members on how the cities formulate annual budgets, how cities generate revenue and that money is spent.

CODOT Remembers Workers Killed On Duty

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The Colorado Department of Transportation held a memorial today for workers killed in highway accidents. Over the last 80 years, 58 employees have been killed while on duty, including 23 who died in work zones. Last year, there were more than 830 work zone crashes.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Dozens Gather On Saturday To Search For Missing Teen

Dozens of volunteers gathered Saturdy in Morgan County to search for missing teen Kayla Chadwick. Lt. Darrin Sagel with Fort Morgan Police Department says they did not recover any evidence in the case, but the numbers were strong...






TAG: Chadwick disappeared March 27 after a fight with her boyfriend. A $1,500 reward for her safe return is being offered. Anyone with information on Chadwick's whereabouts is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 970-542-3411.

Residents Jump To Escape Denver Apartment Fire

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An early morning fire at a Southeast Denver Apartment Complex this morning caused people to jump from balconies and windows to escape the flames. The fire, in the 10-thousand block of East Dartmouth Avenue was reported shortly after 4 o'clock this morning. Witnesses say a stairwell was engulfed, making the jumps necessary. At least two people suffered injuries as they made the leap from the 2nd and 3rd floor. A 3rd person was injured trying to catch someone who jumped.

Log Lane Village To Get Hydrant Locks

042312-Log Lane Village To Get Hydrant Locks - FM



In an effort to cut down on water theft and other tampering with hydrants, The Log Lane Village Board of Trustees approved purchasing three fire hydrant locks for the town. The goal is to eventually have locks on all 69 of the towns hydrants that are the same as what Ft Morgan uses. That would make it easier for the Ft. Morgan volunteer fire department to access them. Hydrant locks cost 110-dollars each.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Pedal The Plains Announced

KSIR-042012-Pedal The Plains Announcement

In Ft. Morgan today, Gov. John Hickenlooper formally announced the route for the inaugural Pedal The Plains Bicycle Tour, billed by the governor as “Colorado’s next big cycling event.” The three-day ride, scheduled for Sept. 21 – 23, will showcase the host communities of Yuma, Wray and Burlington. It also includes a family cruiser ride, and a 120-mile timed Gran Fondo. The Governor said thought of the idea for " Pedal the Plains" while campaigning in Northeast Colorado. He wanted to come up with a way to share that experience with people from other parts of the state....






Route and Registration details are on the website....pedal the plains dot com.

New Search Location In Chadwick Case

Organizers are preparing for another weekend search for missing 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick. The reward offered for information in the case has also been increased to $1,500. The girl's mother, Robin Adams says they're not focusing on any specific area....






TAG: Chadwick disappeared March 27, after a fight with her boyfriend. Saturday's search will begin at Jensen Onion on the corner of Barlow Road and Riverview Avenue. Volunteers are encouraged to bring bottled water, energy bars and other supplies for the search. Anyone with information on Kayla's whereabouts should contact Fort Morgan Police at 970-867-5678.

Chadwick Reward Triples

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The reward for information leading to the location of missing Ft. Morgan teenager Kayla Chadwick is now 15-hundred dollars. Ron Greene, owner of Western Clean Up and former Ft. Morgan resident Rodney Wadell each added 5-hundred dollars to the reward offered by Crime Stoppers. A search for 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick is being organized for this weekend. Bobby Meng is a friend of Kayla's family. She's helping to organize the search effort...






TAG: Anyone with information on Kayla's whereabouts should call Fort Morgan Police at 970-867-5678.

Columbine Remembered

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There were no classes at Columbine High School today, as the community pauses to remember the victims of the massacre on this date in 1999. A memorial to those who were killed was open to the public in a park near the school.

Colorado Unemployment Rate Steady

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About 26-hundred new 'non-farm' jobs were created in Colorado during the month of March, but that wasn't enough to move the needle on our unemployment rate. It held steady at 7-point-8 percent. According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment , most of the new jobs were in Health Services, Education, Manufacturing, Hospitality and Leisure. The national unemployment rate for March was 8-poin t-2 percent.
Colorado's unemployment rate held steady at 7.8 percent in March.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Search For Kayla Chadwick Planned For Saturday

A search for 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick is being organized for this weekend. Bobby Meng is a friend of Kayla's family. She's helping to organize the search effort...






TAG: Chadwick was reported missing March 28. She's 5'5" tall and weighs about 135 lbs. She has red hair with brown tips and brown eyes. Anyone with information on her whereabouts should call Fort Morgan Police at 970-867-5678.

CO Senate Approves Budget

DENVER (AP) — Colorado's Senate has signed off on the state's $7.4 billion spending plan for next year.

Senators approved the budget by a vote of 30-5 Thursday morning. The budget has already passed the House, and disagreements between the chambers are minimal. That means Colorado seniors are all but certain to get property tax relief next year. And public schools could see their first year without additional state budget cuts after three years of cuts.

The budget includes a retooling of the governor's energy office, $3 million to increase tax incentives for film production, and the closure of a solitary confinement prison in southern Colorado.

Now budget writers from the House and Senate will have to rectify small differences between before sending the budget to the governor's desk.

Late Start Days Proposed for FMHS Next Year

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Ft. Mortgan High School is considering some late start days during the next school year. All classes would still be held on late start days, but would be shorter than usual. The plan calls for classes to state late every other Wednesday to allow teachers time to colloborate on topics including academic planning. School Principal Judy Florian is in favor of the idea because many teachers supervise extra-curricular activities at the end of the day, making them less available to participate. As the plan is outlined, Mustang Pride...counseling time available for students to consult with teachers... would be reduced, but instructional time would actually increase over the course of the year..

Search For Missing Fort Morgan Teen Planned For Saturday

Another search is being organized for a missing Fort Morgan teen. Friends and family 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick are organizing another search for this weekend. Volunteers will meet Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. at the gazebo in Fort Morgan City Park. Organizers say they will search on horseback and on foot in addition to several ATVs. Folks are also encouraged to bring bottled water and energy bars for volunteers as well as other supplies. Chadwick has been missing since the end of March. Police say she disappeared after a fight with her boyfriend. Anyone with information on the girl's whereabouts is incouraged to call Fort Morgan P.D. at 970-867-5678.

Colorado Man Looses Plan Following Drug Conviction

KSIR-041912-Colorado Man's Plane Seized after Drug Conviction-BOTH


A Rifle, Colorado man has been ordered to forfeit the plane authorities say he used to smuggle drugs into suburban Philadelphia. James Handuz was convicted on charges stemming from an arrest last April in Montgomery County Pennsylvania, where he sold a pound of crystal meth to an undercover cop after flying the drugs in from Nevada. Not only is Handuz going to loose his plane...a vintage 1959 Piper....he's also going to be spending several years as a guest of the Pennsylvania Department of Correction. Sentencing is scheduled for next week.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Sterling Mom Pleads Guilty to Killing 3-year-old son

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This afternoon, the mother of 3-year old Caleb Pacheco pleaded guilty to one count of Second Degree Murder, and one count of child abuse resulting in death. Juanita Kinzie, age 24, faces 32 years in prison, with a possibility of parole after 24 years as part of the plea agreement. First degree murder charges, and charges of concealing the death of a child were dropped. Caleb's body was on found on January 22nd, wrapped in plastic and hidden under the mobile home he and his mother shared in Sterling, after he was reported missing by concerned family members.



Cargill, Waste Management offer e-recycling

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This Saturday, Cargill Meat Solutions and Waste Management are offering area residents a chance to recycle old electronic devices cluttering up closets, garages and basements. From 9 til noon at Cargill, on East Burlington Avenue in Ft. Morgan, CPU, cords, cables, laptos, tablets, and mobile phones will be collected at no cost. The first 500-dollars worth of larger items will be recyled for free as well, then nominal fees will be applied. "larger items" include, monitors, TV's and similar items. According to the US environmental protection agency, e-waste is the fastest growing segment of the nation's waste stream. Cargill and Waste Management initiated this year's effort in honor of Earth Day.




RE-1 Valley BOE addresses Math Curriculum

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The RE-1 Valley Board of Education made some changes to the pre-school through 12th grade math curriculum at their meeting earlier this week. Students in pre-school through grade five will be using a new version of "everyday math" and The "every day math counts" calendar, a move teachers applaud. Students in 6th - 12th grade will use "College Preparatory Mathamatics". However, individual course names will need to be decided upon since the course name could impact a student's eligibility for scholarships or college admission.


US Rep Gardner's Energy Bill Advances In US House

An energy bill authored by US Representativie Cory Gardner made it through the Congressional Subcommittee on Energy and Power this week. Gardner's bill dubbed the "Strategic Energy Protection Act" would link any drawdown of the nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve to increasing access to domestic land for oil exploration and production. Gardner has accused the Obama administration of using the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to manipulate the market and has said lawmakers need to focus on long term solutions to rising gasoline prices. White House officials have been hinting recently at tapping US oil reserves to control soaring gas prices. Gardner called the move politically expediant and said the President is only trying to gain favor with the American people.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Darrell Smith High to Co-habitate with Sterling High

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At last night's meeting, the RE-1 Valley Board of Education voted 5 - 2, to move Sterling's alternative school, Darell Smith High School, into The Sterling High School facility. As part of the plan, Darrell Smith High will be renamed Darrell Smith Academy. Board president Eric Windom and Chuck Hicks voted against the measure. Superintendent Betty Summers says the move will save the district 100-thousand dollars.


Gay Civil Union Vote Coming In State Senate

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A bill recognizing same sex civil unions made its way out of a State Senate Appropriations Committee this morning on a 5-4 party line vote. The bill will now go to the full senate for a debate next week. The Democratic majority in the Senate virtually assures the bills passage. However, prospects in the GOP controlled house are not as positive. The same proposal died last year in a GOP controlled house committee before making it to the floor for a vote.


Wildlife Officials Conducting Coyote Research Project

State wildlife officials are conducting a two year research project on the urbanization of coyotes. Jennifer Churchill with Colorado Parks and Wildlife says their research is focused on the Denver area...






TAG: Churchill says in recent years, coyote conflicts with pets and people have spiked. Since 2008, coyote bites have increased from 1-2 per year to as many as 4-5 each year.

Monday, April 16, 2012

CU Campus Closed to Outsiders on Smoke Out Day

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If you are not an employee or a student at The University of Colorado, you won't be able to get on The Boulder campus on April 20th. Its part of the schools continued effort to stomp out the annual pot smoke out that has drawn as many as 10-thousand people to the Norlin Quad in recent years. The closure announcement has prompted the ACLU to review the legality of closing a public college campus. A school spokesperson countered that the chancellor has the right to restrict campus access due to the potential for disruption.
To further discourage participation, the school is closing the Norlin Quad to everyone on April 20th so a fish-based fertilizer can be applied to the grass.





Navajo Educator Dies

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Ruth Roessell, a prominent Navajo educator died at a hospital in Cortez over the weekend following a brief illness. She was 77. Roessel was born on the Navajo Nation and attended Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding schools. She and her late husband Dr. Robert Roessel Sr. were noted innovators who developed new concepts for Navajo education programs. In addition to her storied career as an educator that spanned several decades, Roessel was also an author and community leader. She leaves behind five children.



Vigil To Be Held For Kayla Chadwick

A candle light vigil has been planned for a missing Fort Morgan teen. A vigil for missing 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick has been planned for Tuesday night at the gazebo in Fort Morgan Library Park. Organizers are calling for people from across northeast Colorado to come with their candles to light the way home for Chadwick. The vigil is scheduled fo 7:30 Tuesday night. Organizers have also set up a facebook page for Kayla. She disappeared March 27 after a fight with her boyfriend. For more information, contact Kim Dykes at Equitable Savings in Brush. The number is 970-842-5196.

State Launches Probe Into Prescribed Burns

DENVER (AP) — A team of specialists is releasing its findings about a prescribed burn blamed for igniting a deadly wildfire in Colorado.

The report will be made public Monday.

The wildfire erupted March 26 when high winds fanned embers from a prescribed burn conducted days earlier by the Colorado State Forest Service southwest of Denver. Three people died and hundreds were displaced.

The fire blackened 6 square miles and damaged or destroyed more than two dozen homes.

The State Forest Service has said the prescribed burn started the wildfire.

Gov. John Hickenlooper asked William Bass, supervisor of the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, to lead the review of the prescribed burn.

Separate investigations are looking into the precise cause of the wildfire and the deaths.

New Log Lane Village Water Shut Off Procedures

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Log Lane Village residents who are behind on their water bills will now get shut off notices in the mail. The board of trustees approved the change from door-hanger notification based on savings of time and money. Delivering the 75 - 80 shut off notices that go out each month by mail will likely cut 350-dollars per month in expenses.



Friday, April 13, 2012

State Supreme Court Will Not Hear Fort Morgan Man's Case

A Fort Morgan man's lawsuit against the city will not be heard by the Colorado Supreme Court. City Clerk John Brennan says Ronald Henderson filed suit against the city a few years ago...






TAG: Henderson appealed that ruling last year and lost a second time. This week's decision by Colorado's highest court effectively puts Henderson's case to rest.

January High Speed Driver Faces The Judge

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The man who lead police on a high speed chase through the streets of Sterling at the end of January had his first court date Thursday afternoon. Gabriel Vasquez is facing 16 charges, inlcuding 3 felonies, following his alleged flight from a domestic violence incident. Police say Vasquez failed to stop when they tried to pull him over, ran through several stop signs, collided with a couple of vehicles...injuring one driver....and then fled on foot before being apprehended on Broadway Street.

During the court appearance, Vasquez's bail was lowered to 35-thousand dollars. His lawyers say that will allow him to return to work a a burger king in Greeley while he awaits trial at the end of May.

Brush Farmer Tests Positive for Bomb Making Material at Airport

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Trasnportation Security Administration officers detained an 82-year-old farmer from Brush at the Ft. Collins-Loveland airport yesterday, after he tested postive for bomb making material. The suitcase Larry Bodaness was carrying showed to be positive when it was wiped with a chemically treated cloth. Bodaness was eventually allowed to board his flight after police determined the suitcase was likely coated with a dusting of fertilizer.



Thursday, April 12, 2012

FM Jail Getting New Locks

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The morgan county jail will be a bit more secure now that commissioners approved the purchase of new locks. The county commissioners approved the 40-thousand dollar purchase from R-R Brinks at their meeting earlier this week. The locks were sold to the county at a reduced price because they will soon be discontinued, according to a spokesperson for the commissioners. The board also approved switching the name on the Jail food Service contract to "Trinity Services", which recently aquired the company that had been providing the service.

Colorado Medical Marijauna Dispensaries Feel Federal Heat

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US Attorney John Walsh is giving 25 Colorado medical marijuana dispensaries until May 7th to shut down of move because they are within 1-thousand feet of a school Its the second enforcement effort in the recent months. The last round saw 23 dispensaries close. This time, two near the University of Colorado are on the list because of their proximity to the school.

Reward Offered For Informatio on Missing Fort Morgan Teen

The search continues for 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick, who's been missing since March 28. John Brennan with the city of Fort Morgan say Crimestoppers is now offering a $500 reward for information leading to her safe return...






TAG: Chadwick is 5'5" and weighs 135 lbs. She has red hair with brown eyes. She disappeared after a fight with her boyfriend. Authorities say that teen is cooperating with investigators. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Kayla Chadwick should call Morgan County Crimestoppers at 970-542-3411.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Colorado River Dams

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper says new dams will be needed to store water from the Colorado River.

According to the Denver Post, Colorado planners believe Colorado could be entitled to as much as 900,000 acre-feet of unallocated river water under the 1922 interstate compact that governs use of the river.

The Colorado River provides water for 30 million people in seven states and Mexico. States covered by the compact include California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado

CO City Expands Smoking Ban

LAKEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Lakewood City Council has tightened public smoking rules, but rejected demands for stricter regulations.

The council expanded the no-smoking area around building entrances from 15 feet to 25 feet. They also barred the opening of any more smoking bars.

The Denver Post reports the council rejected demands that restaurant patios be smoke-free all the time and ban smoking inside tobacco businesses.

The Durango City Council is also considering extending its smoking ban. The proposal would include the Animas River Trail, playgrounds and outdoor restaurant patios.

Colorado Joins E-Books Lawsuit

DENVER (AP) — Colorado Attorney General John Suthers says Colorado is joining a multistate lawsuit against electronic book publishers.

The U.S. government said Wednesday it has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple Inc. and book publishers, saying the publishers conspired with Apple to raise retail electronic-book prices to limit competition.

The lawsuit was filed by attorneys general from 15 states in Puerto Rico. It seeks an injunction to reduce anticompetitive conduct and damages for customers who paid artificially inflated prices.

Suthers spokesman Mike Saccone says if the lawsuit is successful, the state will try to get a list of customers to see who gets restitution.

CO GOP Chooses Delegates

DENVER (AP) — Colorado Republicans no longer have a high-stakes presidential fight coming up this weekend at the state assembly to choose delegates to the Republican National Convention.

But the 3,800 or so Republicans meeting this weekend in Denver have plenty to decide — including a proposal to try to undo its presidential caucus system in favor of a statewide primary.

Colorado held presidential primaries from 1992 to 2000. After that, the Legislature got rid of them to save money. Instead the parties now have complex presidential caucuses that lead to the selection of delegates to their national conventions.

Some Republicans say Colorado should return to the presidential primary. Others say the caucus system is unwieldy but gives activists the best chance to influence who their party's nominee will be.

CO Parks and Wildlife Names Officer of the Year

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has named their officer of the year. External Relations manager Theo Stein says this year's winner, Bob Thompson, was chosen by his peers at the department...






TAG: The John D. Hart Award is the most prestigious award given by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The man for whom the award is named worked for the then Division of Wildlife in the 1950s and 60s. He was known for relentlessy prosecuting poachers. He also hand raised turkes at his home to be reintroduced to the Grand Mesa.

Wildfire Near Steamboat Springs Burns 300 Acres

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A "controlled" agricultural burn that got out of control has scorched 300 acres near Steamboat Springs. The fire started when ranch workers were burning to clean out some ditches. Firefighters hope to gain and maintain control of the blaze eventhough today's weather condition are working against them.control.

Brush Schools Admin Staff Retained for 2012-2013 School Year

KSIR-041112-Brush School District Retains Admin Staff for 2012-2013



The adminstrative team at The Brush School District will remain intact for the next school year. The Board of Education decision includes principals, asistant principals, and athletic directors. The board also accepted the resignations of four employees and the hiring of two others.








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Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Fort Morgan Police Accepting Unwanted Medications

April 28 is National Drug Takeback Day. Locally, Fort Morgan police will be accepting unwanted or expired medications at the Colorado Plains Medical Center. Officer Roger Doll says you don't have to wait until the end of the month...






TAG: Authorities will be accepting the medications from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 28. For more information on the Drug Takeback or for a list of accepted medications, call Fort Morgan P.D. at 970-867-5678.

Firefighters Warned Lower North Fork Victims to Evacuate

KSIR-041012-Firefighters warned Lower North Fork Victims To Evacuate-BOTH


Firefighters say they went door-to-door telling people to evacuate ahead of the deadly Lower North Fork Fire an hour before an automated phone system began sending out evacuation alerts. Sam and Linda Lucas, who died in the fire, were among those the firefighters spoke to, according to Inter-Canyon Fire/Rescue. The bodies of Lucas and his wife, Linda, were found at their home. Another woman, Ann Appel, was also killed in the fire. The automated phone calls began shortly after 5 p.m. Inter-Canyon Fire/Rescue says one of its firefighters began alerting residents to leave at about 4 p.m., but some refused to go.

Construction Jobs Uptick in Colorado

KSIR-041012-Construction Jobs Uptick in Colorado-BOTH


During the 12-month period from February 2011 to February 2012, more construction jobs were created in the Denver-Aurora-Broomfield area than any other metro area in the country accorting to a report released by the associated general contractor of America. They based their information on analysis of federal employment data. The report says more than 63-hundred construction jobs were added in the Denver-Aurora-Broomfield area...an increase of roughly 10 -percent.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Authorities Searching For Burglary and Assault Suspect

Local authorities are asking the public for help locating a man who broke into a Morgan County home last week and assaulted two young girls. Morgan County Sheriff Jim Crone says the two girls were able to fight the man off...






TAG: Crone says neither girl was seriously injured in the attack, but it could have been much worse. Anyone with information about the burglary and assault should contact Investigator jessica Schlagel or Lt. Jon Horton at 970-867-2461.

Denver Activists Press for Feds to Investigate Police

KSIR-040912-Denver Activitsts Press for Feds to Investigate Police-BOTH


Community activists in Denver, representing The Colorado Progressive Coalition., say theyve collected more than 1-thousand signatures on a petition asking the Department of Justice to investigate the Denver Police Department. The request comes follows the April 2009 beating of a hispanic man in the Lower Downtown section of Denver, allegedly at the hands of a Denver Police officer...and the July 2010 death of Marvin Booker, a homeless street preacher who died, alegedly at the hands of sheriff's deputies, while in jail. The Colorado Progressive Coalition says they are still adding signatures to the petition. A spokesman for the Denver police says they are capable of investigating and disciplining their own, and a Federal inquiry is not needed.


Fire Station Target of Criminals

PUEBLO, Colo. (AP) — The new Pueblo fire station under construction is becoming a hotspot for crime.

In the past five months, police have been called to the new station eight times. Burglars have taken more than $43,000 in property including high-priced monitoring equipment, scrap metal and tools.

The Pueblo Chieftain reports Police Chief Luis Velez said site security is the responsibility of the construction company and extra patrols weren't assigned to check on the station.

Gunnison County Fires Keep Crew Busy Over Weekend

MONTROSE, Colo. (AP) — Four fires in Gunnison County kept firefighters busy over the weekend.

Fire crews from the Paonia Fire Department, Gunnison County Sheriff's Office and the Montrose Interagency Fire Management Unit battled one fire on Sunday near Gunnison burning on private lands and a national forest. The 60-acre fire was not threatening any structures.

Other fires included a 125-acre fire that was 80 percent contained, and two fires that were fully contained that burned 31 acres and 69 acres.

Authorities Identify Denver Jogger Hit and Killed

DENVER (AP) — A jogger killed when the driver of a sport utility vehicle lost control has been identified as a former Army soldier.

The coroner says 45-year-old Michael Sanders died Sunday when the driver swerved to avoid another car, hit Sanders, then slammed into a house, pinning a resident.

According to KMGH-TV, Sanders had just moved to Denver after getting out of the Army and was going to school to become a nurse.

The other victim suffered minor injuries.

Burglary and Assault Suspect Sought - FM

KSIR-040912- Police Seek Burglary/Sexual Assault Suspect - FM



Anchor: The Morgan County Sheriffs Office suspect an assault on two young girls and a break in at a nearby house may be related....








(Script): Just after 6pm last monday, police got a 9-1-1 call about two young girls assaulted in their County Road P home. The suspect is a white male, 5 foot-two to 5-foot-five, overwieght, and balding, between the ages of 40 and 60. He was wearing a grey shirt and blue jeans and smelled of tobacco and alcohol. H e wasn't wearing a jacket, and no vehicle was observed. The next day, a burglary was reported a short distance away. Police have determined it happened around the time of assault on the two young girls. Some electronic items were taken. Evidence at the crime scenes leads investigators to believe the two incidents are related. They are especially concerned because sexual assault may have been intended. Law enforcement officials ask anyone with information about the suspect to contact authorities at 867-2461







Friday, April 6, 2012

Equine Operations FSA Emergency Loans Available


KSIR-040912-Emergency Loans now available to Equine Operations - BOTH


Anchor Intro: Equine Operations that breed, raise and sell certain types of horses are now eligible for loan assistance under the USDA Farm Service Agency emergency loan program...







(Script):

The announcement can yesterday from FSA State Executive Director Trudy Kareus. She said the same emergency loan assistance available to live stock and row crop producers is now available to equine operations for restoring and replacing essential property, paying all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year, covering essential family living expenses, reorganizing the farming operation, and refinancing certain debt. The program is available to farmers and ranchers in and adjacent to counties that have been declared disaster area. I'm Drew Dawson









Rural Click-it or Ticket Campaign in Full Swing

Local authorities are out this month, patrolling rural roads looking for drivers not wearing their seat belts. Officer Roger Doll with the Fort Morgan Police Department says even though the rural roads of northeast Colorado don't have the highway gridlock of Denver, they can still be deadly...






TAG: Doll says pickup trucks are twice as likely to roll-over in a crash. The enforcement effort is part of the national Rural Click-it or Ticket campaign.

GOP Guest Speaker Draws Protests

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Republicans headed to a fundraiser in Fort Collins could be met by protesters because of a controversial speaker on the bill.

Planned Parenthood activists from Colorado State University say they're going to protest a speech by Wyoming Republican Foster Friess. He's a powerful Republican donor who said on MSNBC in February that aspirin used to be an acceptable method for contraception. He said women "put it between their knees, and it wasn't that costly."

Friess supports Republican presidential hopeful Rick Santorum. He has given some $380,000 to "super" political action committees supporting Santorum. The candidate called Friess' aspirin remark a "stupid joke" and said it was in bad taste.

Friess is a listed "special guest speaker" at the Larimer County GOP Lincoln Day Dinner Friday.

Red Flag Fire Warnings In Place

DENVER (AP) — Red flag warnings for high fire danger are in effect for high mountain valleys in western Colorado and the northern plains.

The National Weather Service says warm, windy weather is raising the fire danger across the Mountain West.

The threat in Colorado is expected to subside Friday afternoon.

The agency warns that simple burns on farms or ranches could easily get out of control.

The Daily Sentinel reported that two burns — one to destroy trash and the other to burn a field — grew out of control on Thursday in Mesa County, destroying two outbuildings

Teacher Accused of Being Drunk at School

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (AP) — An Orchard Mesa Middle School art teacher is on suspension after she was accused of coming to school drunk.

School District 51 Superintendent Steve Schultz says Laura Bond has been on paid leave since Feb. 8 while the allegations are being reviewed.

The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel reports Schultz told the school board he is recommending Bond's dismissal based on neglect of duty, immorality and other causes.

Denver Air Traffic Controller Accused of Ignoring Emergency Calls

DENVER (AP) — The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating after an air traffic controller was accused of ignoring a request for an emergency landing in Denver after a commercial airline pilot reported smoke in the cabin.

According to recordings obtained by KUSA-TV, the controller thought the call was a prank. The controller dismissed the emergency call minutes later.

The United Express plane from Peoria, Ill., was evacuated Tuesday after the plane landed at Denver International Airport. One of the 21 passengers was taken to the hospital.

According to the recordings, the controller apparently misunderstood the call letters of the airliner.

The National Transportation Safety Board says the investigation has been turned over to the FAA. A spokesman for the FAA says it would comment later Friday.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Escapee Gets Probation-ST

KSIR-040512-Escapee Sentenced To Probation-ST



A man who eluded police for two years after escaping from custody on drug charges received a sentence of "no-tolerance" probation in court yesterday. Israel Ramon Reyes was busted with 24 pounds of pot in his car when he was stop on I-76 in Sterling in July of 2009. He allegedly escaped using his mother's car. Last June, he voluntarily turned himself in, saying he's a changed man with a wife, kids, and a job....in Nebraska. Over prosecutor's objections, the judge sentenced him to probation with a strong warning that one slip up would land him in a state prison.






Duo Pushes Conservative Initiatives

KSIR-040512-Political Neophytes Push Conservative Ballot Measures-BOTH

Anncr Intro: A pair of political neophytes are moving to change Colorado's constitution and make the state dramatically more conservative....










(Script): Sam Babcock and Elise Van Grinsven are sponsors of several proposed ballot measures covering a range of right wing issues. The brother and sister team is working to gather 86-thousand valid signatures to get their questions on the november ballot. Among them are initiatives to eliminate real property taxes; another would allow residents to carry concealed weapons without a permit. A third would end population-based senate districrts in favor of geographically based districts...something that has been deemed illegal by the US Supreme court for the last 50 years. Their proposals were among a long list of ballot proposals considered by Colorado title board Yesterday. The state title board does not debate a ballot measure's merits, or even its legality. The board is simply charged with making sure a ballot measure is properly worded before its sponsors can gather petition signatures. I'm Drew Dawson



Fire Threat Heightened In Western CO

DENVER (AP) — Warm, windy weather is raising the fire danger in the Mountain West

Red flag warnings were in effect Thursday for much of western Colorado and the San Luis Valley as well as parts of Wyoming, Utah, Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico.

In western Colorado, the National Weather Service said wind gusts could reach up to 35 mph before the threat is expected to subside Friday afternoon. Humidities are also expected to drop below 15 percent there, making it easier for fires to spread.

The agency warns that simple burns on farms or ranches could easily get out of control.

Weather service meteorologist Joe Ramie says the warm, windy weather is the result of southwesterly winds ahead of an approaching Pacific cold front. The front isn't expected to bring much moisture.

CO Health Department Offering Remote Checkups

DENVER (AP) — Colorado health officials are offering Medicaid patients the option of doing routine health checks from home.

The program announced Thursday allows a registered nurse to monitor a client's weight, temperature, blood glucose, blood pressure, pulse and lung functions. The information is sent using the Internet, phone or other equipment.

State officials say the program will save money by reducing the number of unnecessary emergency room and hospital visits.

New Reservoir Considered For Steamboat Springs

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — An energy company is applying for a federal hydropower license that could lead to construction of a new water storage reservoir southwest of Steamboat Springs.

Peabody Energy has notified Steamboat Springs officials of plans to begin the process.

According to Steamboat Today (http://bit.ly/HY6hlf ), the proposed Trout Creek Reservoir would be able to capture almost one-third as much water as Stagecoach Reservoir south of town and cover roughly half the surface area of the current reservoir.

Search Continues For Missing Fort Morgan Teen

A Fort Morgan teen remains missing and authorities are once again asking the public for help locating locating the girl. Roger Doll with the Fort Morgan Police Department says 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick was last seen March 27th...






TAG: Chadwick is about 5-feet 5-inches tall and weighs about 135 lbs. She has red hair with brown tips and brown eyes. Anyone with information on the girl's whereabouts should call Fort Morgan PD at 970-867-5678.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Wells Gets City Manager Post

KSIR-040412-WELLS APPOINTED CITY MANAGER-fm


At last night's city council meeting, jeff wells was officially appointed to the position of ft. morgan city manager, a position he's held on an interim basis for a year and a half. the council did not wells' other job as city attorney. he will continue in the dual roles until the matter is resolved at an upcoming council meeting.




Father, Son dead In Denver

KSIR-040412- Father, Son Dead in Denver Murder Suicide - BOTH




Neighbors and friends of a Denver man are shocked and saddened after he and his young son were found dead in the garage of his estranged wife on South Bryant Street. Police were called to the home to do a welfare check just after 4pm yesterday. They say it appears that 40-year old Damion Morine shot his 5 or 6 year old son, Toby, then turned the gun on himself.

Fort Morgan to Participate in National Drug Take Back Day

There's a drub take-back coming up at the end of the month. Darrell Moody has the details...






National Drug Take Back Day is April 28th and to participate, Fort Morgan police are holding a community drug take back at Colorado Plains Medical Center. Authorities will accept any old, unused or unwanted medications between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the parking lot of the medical center. Northeast Colorado residents will be allowed to turn the medication in with no questions asked. Officials say they will not accept needles, surrenges, chemotherapy or radioactive materials, oxygen containers or pressurized canisters. For more information, contact Fort Morgan Police at 970-542-3948.

Neglected Cattle Euthanized

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (AP) — The Mesa County Sheriff's Office has seized 61 head of cattle after complaints of abuse and neglect. Three were so bad that they had to be euthanized.

The surviving animals were taken to a feed lot for rehabilitation and veterinary care.

Authorities say an investigation is under way to determine the extent of malnourishment and neglect.

According to KJCT-TV (http://bit.ly/I0ik07 ), charges may be filed after the investigation is complete.

Authorities Reviewing Evacuation Plans

VAIL, Colo. (AP) — Vail authorities are reviewing evacuation plans after wildfires ravaged areas along the Front Range and eastern plains over the past few weeks.

Emergency responders say snowpack is below average and some places are tinder dry.

Vail Police Chief Dwight Henninger says the evacuation plan also includes hazardous materials spills along Interstate 70 and flooding.

According to the Vail Daily (http://bit.ly/HLtCJP ), people need to recognize potential danger and not wait for the government to tell them what to do.

This week, three people apparently died in a wildfire southwest of Denver. Several weeks ago, a large wildfire caused at least a half-million dollars' worth of damage on Colorado's eastern plains. Authorities say that fire was sparked by a downed power line. Three firefighters were injured trying to fight that fire.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Yuma Grass Fire Claims One

KSIR-040312-Yuma Wildfire Claims One - BOTH


The Colorado Bureau of Investigation has been called in to investigate the death of a person who's skeletal rermains were found in a burned out car following a 200-acre grass fire in Yuma County early Sunday. Initial reports indicate that the death was an accident. The victim's identity has not yet been confirmed.






CSU Experts Warn of Summer Drought

DENVER (AP) — Colorado State University climatologists are warning of water restrictions later this year unless the state gets more moisture.

Forecasters say up to 98 percent of the state is already facing drought conditions.

According to the Denver Post (http://bit.ly/HQJ9Fh), Aurora Water spokesman Greg Baker says destructive wildfires and an arid March have reduced expectations for this year's water supply.

US Sen Bennet Holds Gas Meeting

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet got an earful from both sides at a meeting on natural gas development in central Colorado.

Bennet said Monday that people should be patient while negotiations are under way between gas companies and the Thompson Divide Coalition, which has offered to buy out existing gas leases.

Industry officials say the offer falls far short of covering their overall investments in their leases and the lease values.

CO Fire Victims Called 9-1-1

CONIFER, Colo. (AP) — A man who was found dead in his burned home was among the confused and panicked residents who called Colorado authorities as a wildfire raged near them.

Police tapes obtained by KMGH-TV (http://bit.ly/HKrEoc ) show that Sam Lucas expressed surprise after responders told him the fire was a controlled burn, despite winds that reached 80 mph. Lucas and his wife were found dead at their home last week.

Another resident urged authorities to rescue a woman who apparently died in the fire. A friend of Ann Appel was concerned for her safety because she was being treated for cancer.

The Colorado State Forest Service has accepted responsibility for the fire, which charred 6 square miles in a mostly rural, mountainous area southwest of Denver.

US Rep Gardner Weighs In On Budget Debate

President Barack Obama chose a luncheon hosted by the Associated Press this afternoon to slam the Republican proposed budget, calling it "Social Darwinism" and a "Trojan Horse." Congressman Cory Gardner has a slightly different take and says it should get a vote...






TAG: The budget submitted by Wisconsin Republican Paul Ryan calls for a total of $5.3 trillion in spending cuts with nearly half of the cuts going to Medicaid and similar programs.

Monday, April 2, 2012

CO Energy Company Fined

DENVER (AP) — A Colorado energy company has agreed to pay more than $2 million in fines for air quality violations.

Suncor Energy (USA) will pay for violations at its Commerce City refinery after state inspectors discovered violations of state and federal requirements during an inspection nearly two years ago.

The health department says the main violations involved benzene waste.

Part of the money will be used for environmental projects to protect public health and the environment.

The Suncor refinery near Denver has also been was blamed for oil seeping into nearby Sand Creek late last year. Benzene levels in Sand Creek on Dec. 22 were 134 times higher than the national drinking water standard.

CO Sen Udall Targets Cell Phone Thieves

DENVER (AP) — U.S. Sen. Mark Udall is asking the Federal Communications Commission to crack down on cell phone service providers who reactivate stolen cell phones.

Udall says the thefts are becoming increasingly violent and the industry has the power to stop it.

He says the crackdown needs to be coordinated by the government and the industry in order to work. He says his goal is to make stolen cell phones worthless.

Industry association spokesman Jot Carpenter said Monday the industry takes the issue seriously and is doing what it can to work with the government on a solution.

Conifer Fire-Latest

CONIFER, Colo. (AP) — Residents displaced by a Colorado wildfire are returning as crews had nearly surrounded the blaze that scorched 6 square miles and damaged or destroyed more than two dozen homes.

Jefferson County sheriff's spokeswoman Jacki Kelley says about 100 residents began returning Monday, a week after the fire erupted.

Kelley says authorities made the decision because of the containment level, the number of ground crews and a weather forecast for rain or snow. About 500 firefighters are at the blaze.

At its peak, the blaze forced evacuations of 900 homes. The fire apparently was sparked by a controlled burn that sprang to life in strong winds.

The bodies of a couple and a set of human remains that could belong to a missing woman were discovered amid the debris.

Local Teen Reported Missing

A local teen is missing. Fort Morgan City Clerk John Brennan says police suspect the girl is a runaway, but detectives are in the early stages of their investigation...






TAG: Brennan says Chadwick was last seen Tuesday, March 27. She was reported missing the next day. Anyone with information on Chadwick's whereabouts should contact Lieutenant Daren Sagel with Fort Morgan PD at 970-542-3933.

Fire Chaplain Placed On Leave

KSIR-Sterling Fire Dept Chaplain Placed On Leave - ST


Sterling Fire Deparment's Volunteer Chaplain, Jared Sonnenberg, has been placed on leave. The move follows a dispute between Sterling Fire Chief Kurt Vogel and the Pastor of First Christian Church of Sterling. Sonnenberg works with the Pastor of The church, but was not involved in the dispute. He says he will still be available to firefighters needing spiritual guidance while the differences between the chief and the pastor are ironed out.






Car Into Building...Again

ksir-040212- Car into Building....Again - FM


For the second time in less than a month, a car crashed into the front entry of the Acorn Conoco gas station in Brush last Friday. The food store portion had to be closed to customers, but they were still able to access the cashiers for gas and lottery ticket purchases. No one suffered any serious injuries. In mid march another car crashed in the rear of the buiding.


Local Man Killed In Motorcycle Accident

The Colorado Highway Patrol is investigating an accident Sunday that claimed the life of a Fort Morgan man. Darrell Moody has the details...






Troopers say 55-year-old John Miner was driving his Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound on Colorado 52 Sunday around 4:00 p.m. when he suddenly lost control and left the roadway about 8 miles north of Fort Morgan. According to the accident report the motorcycle exited the roadway on the left side and immediately overturned, ejecting Miner from the bike. The motorcycle came to rest in the barrow ditch on the west side of the road facing southwest. Miner was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators say drugs or alcohol do not appear to have played a factor in the crash.