Colorado Springs Woman Sentenced For Child Abuse

KSIR-053112-Women Sentenced For Child Abuse


40 years in prison was the maximum sentence available for a judge to impose on a Colorado Springs woman convicted of repeatedly torturing a 21 month old girl. 51-year old Mary Horsley bound the girl's hands and feet with tape, then left her in cold showers, or dunked her in buckets of ice water to punish her for things like spilling a drink. District Judge David Prince said he regretted that his options under the law did not allow for a more harsh punishment for Horsley.

Weekend Search For Kayla Chadwick Planned

It's been more than two months since Kayla Chadwick disappeared and there is another search planned for this weekend in Morgan County. Chastity Houser is helping to organize the search. She says they're calling for volunteers to meet Saturday morning at 9 am at Jensen Onion...






TAG: They're accepting donations as well as baked goods for the sale. To get involved, call Chastity Houser at 970-380-0595. Authorities are also offering a $7,500 reward for information leading to Kayla's safe return. If you have any information on the case, call Crime Stoppers at 970-542-3411.

Dress Code To Be Enforced At Morgan County Fair

KSIR-053112-Dress Code At Morgan County Fair

A dress code will be enforced this year for presenters at The Morgan County Fair. A number of clothing items are no longer acceptable for 4-H Kids. The list includes tank tops, low cut shirts, sheer blouses, bare midriffs, flip flops, shorts, t-shirts, shirts with inappropriate messages or logos, ball caps, and hats. The fair board also issued recommendations for cattle, goat, rabbit, and poultry presenters. The board also decided to adhere to the dress code for horse presenters as outlined in the Colorado 4-H Horse Show Rule Book.

700 New Jobs In Greeley

KSIR-053012- 700 New Jobs in Greeley - ST

700 new jobs are coming to Greeley. Xerox is opening a new call center on Dundee Avenue. Plans call for operations to begin early in July. Half of the jobs will be permanent, the other half are project-based position that will end during the first quarter of 2013.

No Bond Reduction For Brush Woman

KSIR-053012-No Bond Reduction For Brush Woman on Drug Charges-FM


A Brush woman, facing racketeering and drug distribution charges, remains in jail on 105-thousand dollars bond. Heather Marie Kolman's request for a bail reduction was refused by Morgan County District Court Judge Kevin Hoyer. Kolman and several other people were arrested in late April following a 3-month undercover investigation into local drug trafficking. More arrests are possible in connection with the investigation.

Elk Attacks Senior Citizen

KSIR-053012-Elk Attacks Senior Citizen - Both



A cow elk, possibly protecting her calf, trampled a 60-year old women outside an apartment in Estes Park, about 50 miles northwest of Denver. The woman was taken to an area hospital for treatment of her injuries. The elk and her calf wandered off before police arrived. Local officials say elk are common in the area, and have been known to hold up play on the city golf course, and graze on the town green.

Northeast Colorado Stepping Up Role In Wind Energy Development

Nineteen Colorado-based companies will be participating in a wind energy conference next week in Atlanta. Peter Kelley with the American Wind Energy Association says northeast Colorado has become very active in this emerging industry...






TAG: Kelley says in recent years, Colorado farmers have begun leasing parts of their lands to wind farms which not only creates a dependable stream of income, but also keeps electric utility rates lower for local families.

Ft. Morgan Police Get New Canine

KSIR- FT Morgan Police Get New Canine - FM



A 16-month old German Shepherd is the newest member of The Ft. Morgan Police Department. The dog, named "Carr", replaces a canine who was in service for nearly 9 years. Carr, and his handler, Sgt. James Parks, are undergoing continuous training for their work on drug searches, tracking, and community presentations.

NTSB Investigating Plane Crash at Fort Morgan Municipal Airport

Federal authorities are investigating yesterday's fatal plane crash in Fort Morgan. Jennifer Rodi with the National Transportation Safety Board says investigators spent Monday afternoon gathering witness statements...






TAG: 65-year-old Rick Tackabury was killed in the crash. His 42-year-old daughter, Laura Tackabury was seriously injured. Rodi says they have not determined what brought the plane down. They will release preliminary report in about 10 days but they final report will not be released for several months.

Summer Reading Program at Sterling Library

KSIR-052912-Sterling Summer Reading Program Launches Tonight - ST



The sumer reading program at The Sterling Public Library begins tonight at 7pm. Bob Aiken and Bruiser...a giant puppet...will perform in the Library's community room. Those who are already registered for the Summer Reading Program will be able to begin turning in their reading time starting at 6 p.m. this afternoon. Those who have not registered may do so at anytime through July.

Protesters March In Denver

KSIR-052912-Protestors March In Denver - BOTH



Police estimate 2-thousand people marched through the streets of Denver today to protest tax policies they say favor the wealthiest 1 percent of the nation at the expense of the other 99 percent. The march was organized by a coalition of 19 social action and labor groups. The protestors targeted Wells Fargo as an example of what they see as wrong with the US economy and what needs to change.

Deadlines Near For Ag Assistance Programs

KSIR-Deadlines Near For Ag Programs-FM

The USDA Colorado Farm Service Agency issued a reminder yesterday that deadlines are approaching for producers to apply for several financial assistance programs. June 1st is the cut of for The Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payment...or "SURE" program. Also the DCP, or Direct and Counter-Cyclical Program, and the Average Crop Revenue Election Program, also known as The ACRE Program. A Farm Service Agency spokesperson said it is crucial for producers to meet the deadline in order to receive disaster and income support.

State Launches Anti-DUI Campaign

KSIR-052512-State Launches Anti-DUI Campaign - BOTH


Today is the first day of Colorado's summer long effort to stamp out drunken driving. The Campaign is called "100-days of Heat". The goal, according to the Colorado State Patrol, is to reverse a deadly trend of alcohol and drug related automobile accident.. Last year, there were 67 alcohol-related fatal crashes between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

US Rep Gardner Visits Greeley Construction Company

Congressman Cory Gardner joined Wyoming Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis for a roundtable Thursday in Greeley. Gardner says they met with Weld County officials as well as management from Hansel PHelps Construction Company and JBS Trucking to talk about energy policy...






TAG: On Thursday, members of the House Energy Action Team spread out across the country to promote a true all-of-the above energy agenda.

Brush Post Office Damaged

KSIR-052412-Major Damage At Brush Post Office - FM


A mobile Postal Van is subbing for The Brush Post Office today...this after a vehicle drove through the front of the building yesterday afternoon. The building suffered major damage. The mobile van is set to provide all of the normal post office services while plans for the damaged building are hatched.

New Website Helps Vets Find Jobs

KSIR-052412-State Launches Website To Help Vets Find Jobs - BOTH



Colorado veterans now have a new tool to help them find a job. The Department of Labor and Employment has launched a new website were veterans can post resume's, search for jobs, and see new openings before they are posted for the public. "WWW-dot-Hire-A-Colorado-Vet-dot-gov" is part of an ongoing effort to reduce unemployment among Gulf War era vets, which has hovered around 10-percent.

Sterling FD Celecrates EMS Day

KSIR-052412-Sterling FD Celebrates EMS Day-ST


Yesterday afternoon, dozens of people attended an open house at the Sterling Fire Department to celebrate EMS Day. The fire department took over EMS duties late last year. Since then, the number of people wanting to be volunteer firefighters and medical service technicians has skyrocketed. The department has 25 active volunteers, and a waiting list to join the ranks.

Transportation Crews Complete I-76 Work Early

For the first time in nearly a year, there are no road crews working on I-76 between Brush and Sterling -- no equipment or cones either. C-DOT spokesperson Ashley Mohr says crews have completed a resurfacing and rail installation project more than a month early...






TAG: The project was slated for completion at the end of June. Mohr says aside from some minor maintenance work, C-DOT does not have any major projects scheduled until this fall.

Seniors Get Property Tax Break

KSIR-052312-Ft. Morgan Seniors To Get Property Tax Break-FM


Good news for area seniors. The new Colorado State budget reinstates a property tax exemption for seniors. To qualify, a homeowner must be over 65, and have lived in the home as a primary residence for the pasts 10 years. Under the provision, the first 200-thousand dollars of the home's actual value are exempt from property taxes.

Another Catholic Priest Faces Sex Abuse Charges

KSIR-052312-Catholic Priest in Colorado Springs Faces Sex Abuse Charge - BOTH


An incident in October of 2011 led to the arrest of a Colorado Springs Catholic Priest yesterday on charges he sexually assaulted a child. Rev. Robert Charles Manning is being held in The El Paso County Jail. His bond was set at 10-thousand dollars. Manning retired from St. Gabriel The Archangel Church in Colorado Springs after the allegations came to light in January.

Noble Energy Ops Center Opens in Greeley

KSIR-052312-Noble Energy Opens Ops Center in Greeley - ST


Noble Energy cut the ribbon on their new Operations Center in Greeley yesterday afternoon. The company has made a 5-year, 8-billion dollar committment to Weld County, which includes the new 65-thousand square foot building, 300 jobs, and financial contributions to community ventures. At yesterday's ribbon cutting, Chuck Davidson, the CEO of the oil and natural gas titan, handed a 5-million dollar check to the Greeley-Evans School District, and the Valley RE-1 School district to buy 8 new busses that run on natural gas, and to build a fueling center for them.

State Employee Convicted of Gasoline Theft

KSIR-052212-State Employee Convicted of Gasoline Theft-ST

Former C-DOT employee Kelley Iiams has a new apprecition for the high cost of gasoline. He was ordered to repay 7-thousand dollars for gas he purchased with a state credit card to put fuel in his personal car. Monday's felony embezzlement conviction also carries a sentence of 3 years probabation...which will be extended if Iiams doesn't repay the money on time.

Brush Memorial Day Service Set

KSIR-052212-Brush Memorial Day Services Set - FM

Memorial Day servicesat Brush Memorial Park Cemetery are set for 10am on Monday morning. Morgan County Commissioner Brian McCracken is the featured speaker. The event includes Presentation of the Colors, Roll Call of Those to Be Remembered, a ceremony for Veterans' graves, a Minute of Silence, a Salute, Taps and Retiring of the Colors. American Legion Post 68 and VFW Post 3551 are presenting the program.

Weld County Seeks Board Member

KSIR-052212-Weld Co Seeks Board Members-ST



The Weld County Crime Victims Compensation Board is looking for a volunteer to sign on for a 3-year term. The Board, appointed by District Attorney Ken Buck, distributes financial assistance to crime victims to help cover their out of pocket expenses. The money comes from criminal fines. To apply, send a letter and resume to the Weld County District Attorneys Office in Greeley, or call 970-356-40-10, extension 47-48.

Big Bill For Fire Starter

KSIR-052212-Hewlett Gultch Fire Starter Could Owe State Millions - BOTH





The Hewlett Gultch wildfire could be completely contained within hours, however, the man who admitted accidently starting it, could be faced with an out of control bill. James Weber, a mental health counselor at CSU in Ft. Collins was fined 325-dollars for starting the fire. However, the Forest Service is considering seeking a civil penalty for restitution and rehabilitation of the land, which could cost Weber north of 3-million dollars.

Vehicle Registration Surcharge Challenged

KSIR-052212-Car Fees Alleged To Violate State Constitution-BOTH


A lawsuit filed in Denver District Court yesterday alleges that a 2009 law increasing the cost of vehicle registration to pay for bridge repairs violates the state constitution. Mountain State Legal Foundation claims that The Colorado Bridge Enterprise...an agency created in 2009...raised taxes on state residents without a vote of the people by imposing a bridge safety surcharge on vehicle registrations. The state says the surcharge is a fee, not a tax, and therefore allowable without a vote.

Free Summer Lunch Program

KSIR-052212-Free Summer Lunch Program - FM



Children in the Ft. Morgan area will get free lunches this summer at The Pioneer Elementary School and Sherman Early Childhood Center. The program runs June 4th through July 31st. Lunches will be offered in the school cafeterias from 11 - 12:30 on weekdays. The US Dept of Agriculture and The Ft. Morgan School district are sponsoring the effort, conceived to help kids get the nutrition they need while school is out for the summer.

Brush Middle School Test Scores Up

KSIR-052112-Brush Middle School Test Scores Up - FM

Standardized test scores at Brush Middle School improved this year, according to Principle Sherry Kyle. Math and reading scores improved by anywhere from 8 to 35 academic points. Kyle credits the improvement to hard work by both teachers and students.

NJC Children's Water Festival a Success

KSIR-052112-NJC Children's Water Festival A Splashing Success-ST


The Annual Children's Water Festival at Northeastern Junior College last week was a huge success. Records show nearly 350 elementary school students from across the region attended. They learned that we have limited water resources in our area, and the various roles of water and its importance. Several presenters educated the students about water's role in agriculture, recreation and conservation. -

Search For Kayla Chadwick Continues

It's been nearly two months since anyone has seen or heard from Kayla Chadwick. The 17-year-old disappeared March 27, after a fight with her boyfriend. Kayla's mother, Robin Adams, says if she could talk to her daughter she would say one thing...






TAG: A search planned for Saturday morning was cancelled due to the weather. There is still a $7,500 reward being offered for information leading to Kayla's safe return. Anyone with information on Kayla's whereabouts should call Fort Morgan police at 970-542-3411.

Road Work Scheduled For This Week In Logan County

Colorado Department of Transportation crews will be busy this week in Logan County. Details from Darrell Moody...






CO-DOT crews will be working on the eastbound lanes of I-76 north of Sterling. Crews are sealing cracks between mile markers 145 and 150. Officials say lanes will be closed, speeds will be reduced and delays are to be expecteed. On I-76 westbound between Sterling and Brush, crews will be paving and installing new guardrails and bridge rails. Traffic will also be reduced to just one lane and delays are expected. On Colorado 138 north of Sterling, crews will also be filling in cracks. Lane closures, speed limit reductions and delays are expected. And work also continues on the Sterling Viaduct around mile marker 405 on US 6.

More Crews Battling Northern Colorado Wildfire

A massive wildfire outside Fort Collins has scorched 12 square miles near the town of Livermore. The fire is still less than 10-percent contained. Kristy Wumkes with the US Forest Service says another day of rising temperatures and dry thunderstorms is creating difficult conditions for crews on the ground...






TAG: More than 500 firefighters are battling the blaze. The forest service is also using two heavy tankers and five helicopters. Gov . John Hickenlooper has declared a disaster emergency to allow $3 million of the state's disaster fund to be spent fighting the fire.

large Bonuses paid to Denver School Prinicpal Cause for Scrutiny

KSIR-051812-Today's Lesson: Follow The Money - BOTH



The Principal at one of two Denver Elementary schools under investigation for irregularities on the state's standardized tests received at least 32-thousand dollars in bonuses over the last ten years because of his student's outstanding achievement. Frank Roti, principal at Beach Court Elementary in North Denver earns a salary of approximately 90-thousand dollars per year. School District officials say they began taking a closer look at the Beach Courts results...and those of Hallett Fundamental Academy in North Park Hill, after hearing stories of questionable practices at other schools across the country where principals received large bonuses.

Lesbian Couple Allegedly Fakes Hate Crime

KSIR-051812-Lesbian Couple Fakes Hate Crime - BOTH



Aimee Whitchurch and Christel Conklin weren't the victims of a crime, they were the perpertrators...so say police in Parker Colorado. Last fall, the lesbian couple told authorities that vandals spray painted the words, "Kill the Gays" on the garage door of their home and left a noose on their doorstep. The pointed the finger at neighbors and the homeowners association, saying it was in retaliation for an ongoing dispute. However, police investigators now say they have proof that do women did the crime. They are facing multiple charges, which could result in them doing some jail time.

Brush High Yearbook Honored

KSIR-051812-Brush High School Yearbook Honored


The Brush High School yearbook is one of the 250 best in the country. They've received the recognition from Josten's National Yearbook Program of Excellence Awards. BHS earned the award by meeting certain criteria for covering the students and planning a distribution event. Jostens is providing the yearbook staffl with a plaque and banner for display at the school.

Fire Update 11:30am

KSIR-051812-Fire update 11:30am




A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for residents near the Hewlett Gulch wide fire, which has now grown to over 5-thousand acres northwest of Ft. Collins. Residents living on Bonner Springs Ranch Road to Highway 287 and south have been ordered to evacuate. An evacuation center is being set up at an area Middle School. Yesterday's high winds led to the fire's dramatic growth in the last 24 hours. Additional heavy air tankers, helicopters and firefighters are being called in to battle the blaze.

Water Restrictions Questioned in Sterling

KSIR-051812- Watering Restrictions - ST

Some Sterling residents are questioning the continued need for outdoor water use restrictions. They went back into effect a month ago after being waived for a year. The restrictions include no outdoor watering on Mondays, and "odd-even" use restrictions for the balance of the week. They also cover car washing, and require restaurants to provide water only when requested. During the time the water use restrictions were waived, water use actually decline by about 7-percent according to city officials.

Fort Collins Fire Grows To Over 5,000 Acres

Crews continue to battle a massive fire outside Fort Collins. Kristy Wumkes with the US Forest Service says the fire has now grown to over 5,000 acres and is only about 5-percent contained. She says the weather is working against them...






TAG: Wumkes says they're using a heavy air tanker and two helicopters in addition to 391 firefighters. She says they're also calling in additional crews, two more heavy air tankers and another helicopter.

Search Continues For Missing Fort Morgan Teen

The search continues for a missing Fort Morgan teen. Robin Adams says her 17-year-old daughter Kayla Chadwick disappeared March 27 after a fight with her boyfriend. She spoke with police again this morning...






TAG: Friends and family are organizing another search this weekend. Volunteers will meet Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Jensen Onion. Meanwhile, anyone with a tip in the case can call Fort Morgan police at 970-542-3411. There is also a $7,500 reward for information leading to her safe return.

11am Hewlett Gulch fire update

KSIR-Hewlett Gulch Fire Updatede !!AM Wednesday-Both

Gusty winds and lightning add to the challenge for firefighters at the Hewlett Gulch Trailhead wildfire. So far, the blaze has consumed more than 1-thousand acres of trees and dry brush 20 miles northwest of Ft. Collins. No homes have been ordered evacuated yet, but residents in the area have been told to prepare to leave.

Red Flag Warning Today

KSIR-051612-Red Flag Warning Up Today - ST

The National Weather Service has posted a red flag warning for the eastern Colorado plains until 7pm this evening. The low relative humidity and potential for wind gusts up to 35 mph make for critical fire weather conditions. Lightening strikes from thuderstorms that may develop are the greatest concern for an ignition source.

Sterling Library Lauches Summer Reading Program

KSIR-051512-Sterling Public Library launches Summer Reading Program - ST


"DREM BIG". Thats the theme of this year's summer reading program at Sterling Public library. Library representatives are visiting public schools this week to get kids excited about the program. sign up begins next monday, may 21st.

Police Commendations Presented Tonight At Ft. Morgan City Council Meeting

KSIR-051512-Police Commendation Ceremony Tonight at City Council Mtg-FM


At tonight's city council meeting, police commendations to civilians will be presented. Its part of Ft. Morgan's recognition of National Police Week. Both the mayor and the police chief are expected to be on hand for the ceremony which starts at 6pm in City Hall. .

US Rep Gardner Calls for More Oversight

Congressman Cory Gardner says he's tired of hearing stories about government agencies like the GSA, the Secret Service, NOAA and the Department of Justice misbehaving and wasting government money. Gardner says he wants more accountability out of the government...






TAG: Last week, Gardner added an amendment to the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Bill that would withold funding for government agencies that mismanage federal funds.

Denver Considers New Laws For Homeless

KSIR-051412-Denver Considering New Laws For Homeless - BOTH


The city of Denver is considering a proposal today that would ban eating and sleeping on public property without permission. Supporters of the measure say it will help eliminate a hazard to the health and safety of homeless people buy encouraging them to sleep in shelters rather than on the street. Opponents say the ban ignores that fact that the city does not have enough shelter space for its homeless population.

Ft. Morgan Summer Concert Series Set

KSIR-051412-Summer Concert Series Set-FM

The line up is set for Ft. Morgan's "Live at The Park" Summer concert series. The free summer concerts at downtown city partk run from 6:30 - 8pm for eight consecutive Thursdays beginning June 7th. The first concert features The MMM Platte Valley Festival Band. At complete line up is available on line at "City of fort morgan.com (www.cityoffortmorgan.com)

Weldon School Bus Crash

KSIR-051112-Weldon School Bus Crash-FM


Weldon School Superintendant Robert Petterson says the school bus involved in yesterday mornings crash is totaled and will have to be replaced. The bus ran into a ditch and flipped onto its side on County Rd 6 north of Highway 144. The driver and the one student on board suffered minor injuries.

Changes At Sterling PLR

KSIR-051112-Changes At Sterling PLR-ST


Changes coming to Sterling's Parks, Library and Recreation Board. Dave Appelhans, Parks, Cemetary and Forestry superintendant has resigned. He's taking a job with The County. The PLR Boards says they expect that it will take until at least August to fill the post.

US Rep Gardner Sounds Off On Obama Endorsement of Gay Marriage

President Obama made headlines this week when he came out in support of gay marriage. Congressman Cory Gardner says the President is out of the mainstream but more importantly, he's not focusing on what's most important to voters...






TAG: State lawmakers failed this week to pass proposed civil unions legislation. On Thursday, Gov. John Hickenlooper issued an executive order calling for lawmakers to come back to Denver for a special legislative session to address civil unions.

SCF Employee Gets Probation

KSIR-051012-SCF Employee Gets Probation-ST


A Navy Veteran who works at Sterling Correctional Facility was handed a 2 year probabtion sentence yesterday, along with a two year deferred sentence. Mark Bradley Dickenson was convicted on a number of charges stemming from an April 2011 domestic violence incident during which he ponted a gun at his wife while their two young children begged him not to shoot their mother. Dickenson said he was suffering from depression, job stress and alcoholism at the time.

Letter Carriers Food Drive Saturday

KSIR-Letter Carriers Food Drive Saturday - FM



Saturday marks the annual National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive in Ft. Morgan and Brush. You're asked to leave non-perishable food by your mail box, and your letter carrier will collect it. This marks the first year that Brush has directly taken part in the food drive. Officials with the food banks say they hope those who are able will give a little extra this year because record numbers of people are in need of help.

More Medical Marijuana Stores Close

KSIR-051012-More Medical Marijuana Stores Close-Both


25 more medical marijuana stores in Colorado are now closed. The stores received letters from the US Attorney's office at the end of March warning them to shut down or face criminal prosecution because they were within 1-thousand feet of schools. It marks the second round of Medical Marijauna outlet closures this year. A third mailing of warning letters is expected soon.

US Rep. Gardner Adds Oversight Ammendment To Funding Bill

Republican Congressman Cory Gardner is calling for more oversight from the federal government after reports of mismanaged funds surfaced. According to Gardner's office, federal officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration spent $300,000 from the so-called "asset forfeiture fund" to purchase a 35-foot boat intended for personal use. The money comes from fines leveed by NOAA for federal violations. Late Wednesday, Gardner added an amendment to the Commerce, Justice and Science appropriations bill that would ensure that government employees act responsibly with federal funds. Under the amendment, if NOAA uses any asset forfeiture funds for purposes outside what is outlined in law, Congress can dock funding to the Department of Commerce, which oversees NOAA. The amendment passed by a vote of 357-68.

No Search This Weekend For Kayla Chadwick

A pair of weekend searches turned up no new clues in the case of a Fort Morgan teen who's been missing since March. Authorities say Kayla Chadwick disappeared March 27, after a fight with her boyfriend. Kayla's mother, Robin Adams, says they will not be searching this weekend because of the Mother's Day holiday but she's hopeing to organize another search for Saturday May 19. She says she's also been in contact with Texas-based EquuSearch, although there is not a plan at this time to send an EquuSearch team to Morgan County. Authorities are offering a $7,500 reward for information leading to Kayla's safe return. She's 17-years-old, 5'5" tall and weighs about 135 pounds. Kayla has brown hair with black tips and brown eyes. Anyone with information about her whereabouts can call 970-542-3411.

Brush Outdoor Skills Game Coming June 2

Northeast Colorado families are invited to take part in an expanded Outdoor Skills Day on June 2. Jennifer Churchill with Colorado Parks and Wildlife says the Brush Outdoor Skills Day will teach kids how to enjoy the outdoors...






TAG: The Brush Outdoor Skills Day presented by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the city of Brush, the National Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasants Forever and 4-H Shooting Sports. The event runs from 8 a.m. through 3 p.m. June 2. It's free and open to the public.

Logan Co Commissioners Okay Ground Water Monitoring Wells

KSIR-050912-Logan Co Commissioners Consider Ground Water Monitoring Wells - ST


The Logan County Commissioners have approved two-year lease agreements that will allow The Colorado Water Division to install ground water monitoring wells on county-owned property. The wells will allow CDW to collect data in the Pawnee Ridge Subdivision and Country Club Hills area. Both areas are experiencing escalating ground water problems. CDW expects the wells to yield data for analysis after the first year.

Ft Morgan Observes Natl Police Week

KSIR-050912-Ft. Morgan Observes National Police Week - FM



Next week, Ft. Morgan is set to join communities across the country honoring law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty. National Police week is also a tribute to the family, friends and fellow officers left to mourn.
This year, the names of 362 fallen officers will be added to the National Law Enforcement officers Memorial in Washington DC, including 163 who died last year. Two Ft. Morgan officers....Fred Rehmer who was killed in 1982, and Charles Eyser who was killed in 1916....will also be added.
Events in Ft Morgan include The Peace Officers Memorial Service, The annual Civilian and Police Commendation Ceremony, The Police Chaplaincy Ride Along, and The Appreciation Breakfast. you can find details at "City-of-Fort-Morgan-dot-com".

Illegal Immigrants Can't Possess Firearms

KSIR-050812-Illegal Immigrants Don't Have Right to Own Firearms-BOTH


Illegal Immigrants don't have a right to own firearms under the US Constitution...so says the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. An attorney representing a man in the country illegally filed the appeal after his client was found guilty of unlawful possession of a fire arm. The attorney's arguement was that illegal immigrants should not be excluded from possession fire arms for hunting and protection like people who are mentally ill and convicted felons. The court disagreed, saying illegal immigrants only have limited protections under the constitution.

RE1 Valley BOE Ends Contract Discussions

KSIR-050812-RE-1 Valley Board Closes Contract Negotiations-ST


During an executive session yesterday, The RE-1 Valley Board of Education decided to keep the current salary schedule in place and offer no cost of living increase for the 2012 - 2013 budget year. All staff is set to receive a one step increase, and the district will pay the "point-9 percent" employer contribution increase for selected portions of the health insurance plan. The board also stipulated that all other benefits, working conditions and working calender issues not expressly refererence would remain unchanged, effectively closing all contract negotiations.

CO Parks and Wildlife Commission to Meet Thursday

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission will meet Thursday in Grand Junction to discuss license numbers for most big game species for the upcoming 2012 hunting season. Spokesman Theo Stein says Colorado is a destination for big game hunters from around the world...






TAG: Stein says the peaks of the front range are also a good area to hunt Elk. There are 600 vendors in the state where you can purchase an unlimited elk hunting license good at any of 92 hunt units across Colorado.

Brush High Seeks Mentors

050712- BHS Seeks Mentors - FM

If you're in business, and are willing to share your knowledge and experience with students at Brush High School, this story is for you. BHS, in conjunction with The Morgan County Economic Development Corporation, and several other organizations, is pulling together a mentor program. They're looking for people to come speak to the students about virtually every career option imaginable....from agriculture to web design. If you are willing to help, contact Tony Anderson at 867-9401 ex 16.

Russian Troops Coming To Ft. Carson

KSIR-050712-The Russians Are Coming - BOTH


Russian Soldiers are on their way to Ft. Carson. Its for a joint training exercise at the end of the month...the goal being to have foriegn troops work together to exchange basic skills when out in the field. The 20 russian soldiers will be escorted around the clock by US Military officers, and no classified information will be exchanged.

CO Dept. of Correctons Planning Training Exercise

The Colorado Department of Corrections Search Team will be conducting a training exercise next week. Sterling Correctional Facility Special Teams Commander Gary Little...






TAG: The training exercise will be conducted next Wednesday May 16, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

MCC Awards Scholarships

KSIR-050412- MCC Awards Scholarships - FM

Every Student that completed a scholarship application and enrolled at Morgan Community College for the Spring Semester received scholarship funding...this according to the school's financial aid office. The awards included more than 43-hundred dollars distributed among 17 students thanks to donations to the MCC foundation by individuals, organizations and foundations interested in promoting the success of students. Organizations and individuals who'd like to fund scholarships should contact the MCC Foundation office at 542-3107.

CO Wildlife Officials Issue Warning to Boaters

Northeast Colorado waters are open to spring boaters, however Jennifer Churchill with Colorado Parks and Wildlife says they're seeing an alarming trend with aquatic nuisance species...






TAG: Churchill says they have set up one inspection site in Morgan County at Jackson Lake State Park and two in Logan County at the Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area and at the North Sterling Reservoir State Park.

Free Lightbulbs for Sterling Residents

KSIR-050412-Free Lightbulbs for Sterling Residents-ST


Tomorrow, volunteers with Groundwork Colorado will go door to door in Sterling offering to replace incandescent front porch lights with free energy efficient compact flourescent bulbs. The project is part of National Community Action Month. The volunteers, who'll be out between 10 and 3, will also provide information about low and no cost energy efficiency services, renewable resources, and green jobs information.

Time Running Out For Disaster Loan Applications

KSIR-050312-Time Running Out For Disaster Assistance Loan Applications - ST



The high winds, hail and tornado that tore through our area last June resulted in a disaster declaration from the USDA. The designation made family-sized farm operations in Logan, Yuma, Kit Carson, Phillips and Washington Counties eligible for low interest emergency loans from The Farm Service Agency...but time is running out to apply. The last date to file an application is May 29th. If you think you might be eligible, or if you have questions, contact the Logan County FSA on Iris Drive in Sterling at 522-7440.

Ft. Morgan Runway Project Updated

KSIR-050312-Runway Project Update - FM


More progress to report on the Ft. Morgan Municipal Airport runway replacement project: Now that the environmental studies and impact reports are completed, surveying and land appraisal of property that will need to be purchased is underway. City officials say they hope to have the land purchases done by the end of the year.

Police Receiving Dozens of Leads in Search for Kayla Chadwick

The search continues for a missing Fort Morgan teen. Lt. Darrin Sagel with Fort Morgan PD says they've been receiving numerous tips on the whereabouts of 17-year-old Kayla Chadwick but many of the tips lack the specificity to be helpful...






TAG: Lt. Sagel says in many cases police don't have a location to follow up on or anyone to call back. Meanwhile, another search is scheduled for this weekend in Morgan County... Volunteers are meeting again Saturday morning at Jensen Onion, located at the corner of Riverview Avenue and Barlow Road in Fort Morgan. For more information or to donate supplies, contact Chastity Houser at 970-380-0595. To report a tip in the search for Kayla Chadwick, contact Fort Morgan Police at 970-867-5678. There is now a $7,500 reward being offered for information leading to her safe return.

Prostitution Bust in Greeley

KSIR-050312-Prostitution Bust in Greeley - ST

Two women, charged with running a prostitution business out of their Greeley apartment, are in custody today. Investigators discovered the women advertising their services on a website. An undercover officer responded to the ad, and found a 43-year old grandmother, her 25-year old daughter, and a two year old child living at the residence. The child stayed in the living room while the undercover officer was escorted to a bedroom. That's when additional law enforcement officials entered, and arrested the women. They face charges including child abuse. The child was placed with social services. The women were placed in the Weld County Jail.

Drinking Water Week in Ft. Morgan

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The City of Fort Morgan is joining the American Water Works Association and water professionals across North America to celebrate Drinking Water Week. It runs May 6th - 12th. The purpose is to highlight the importance of investing in water infrastructure. Most of Ft. Morgan's drinking water system was built and installed well before 1950, and will have to be replaced in the near future. More than 5-million dollars in infrastructure upgrades are on the calender in the next 5 years.

Bonfils Blood Center Holding Blood Drive in Fort Morgan

Bonfils Blood Centers is holding a blood drive next week in Fort Morgan. Dianna Hemphill with Bonfils Blood Centers says spring is a great time of year to donate...






TAG: The blood drive is being held Tuesday, May 8 from noon to 5:30 p.m. at the Fort Morgan Armory located at 528 State Street. Hemphill says they are also holding two more blood drives this month on May 16 and 29.

Sterling Man Appointed To CSU Board of Governors

KSIR-050112- Sterling Man Appointed to CSU Board of Governors - ST




A 61-year old Farmer from Sterling is the newest member of the Colorado State University System Board of Governors. Russ Johnson's appointment by Gov. Hickenlooper was confirmed by the state senate. The CSU Board's nine voting members oversees the effective management, accountability and leadership at all of the school's campuses. Johnson, an accountant by trade, runs a family farm, along with his son, in Logan and Washington Counties. He'll participate in his first CSU board meeting tomorrow.

Ft Morgan Water and Sewer Rate Increase Coming.

KSIR-050112-Ft. Morgan Water And Sewer Rate Increase Coming - FM

Ft. Morgan will likely have to raise water and sewer rates in the coming years, according to an independent evaluation provided to the City Council. The increase will be necessary to keep up with operating and maintenance costs, as well as the new projects connected to stormwater drainage. The council is set to consider utility rate increases for the 2013 budget.

Police Asking Public For Help In Missing Teen Investigation

It's been over a month since Kayla Chadwick was last seen and authorities are now offering $7,500 for information leading to her safe return. Several searches have been organized in both Morgan and Logan counties and police are once again asking the public for help in the investigation. Chadwick disappeared March 27 after a fight with her boyfriend. She was last seen in the area of 19500 block of County Road R-7, also known as East 8th Avenue. Kayla is 17-years-old, 5-feet 5-inches tall and weighs about 135 pounds. She has red hair with black tips and brown eyes. Anyone with information about her whereabouts should call Fort Morgan police immediately at 970-867-5678 or Crime Stoppers at 970-542-3411.