Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting all fishermen to cast a line this weekend, for free

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting all fishermen to cast a line this weekend, for free. As part of the Free Fishing Weekend on Saturday and Sunday fishing reservoirs should reel in a good catch at all of your usual spots, including Eleven Mile, Brush Hollow, and Pueblo Reservoir. Officials said that the Arkansas River still isn't a good idea because the runoff is still high, and the water is murky and really swift. Catfish at Brush Hollow have been striking chicken livers and stink bait. When fishing for bass or crappie, officials said to use a jig or bug bait, and trout fishermen should try spinners and power bait. Though no route is guaranteed to catch anything. The event takes place on the first weekend of June every year. It's the only two-day period in the year that anglers don't need a fishing license.
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mcb

Coloradan's will soon have a better way to get around

Coloradan's will soon have a better way to get around. CDOT's Division of Transit and Rail is developing its first ever Statewide Transit Plan, aimed at providing a framework for creating an integrated transit system that meets the mobility needs of Coloradans. Both the Statewide Transit Plan and the Regional Transportation Plans will be integrated into the Statewide Transportation Plan, which is currently being developed. Approximately three technical working group meetings will be held in each rural TPR during the planning process. These meetings will be used to coordinate with local and regional transit providers, the TPR and other interested stakeholders. All meetings are expected to take place in July, September and November. Work on the plan gets underway this week and will be completed within eighteen months.
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Downtown Denver visitors who have been donating spare change to help the homeless will soon be able to charge it

Downtown Denver visitors who have been donating spare change to help the homeless will soon be able to charge it. Denver's Road Home in 2007 set up red parking meter-like devices around town where people could deposit coins to help the homeless as an alternative to giving to panhandlers. The city says those meters are being replaced with blue smart meters that also can accept debit and credit cards. All meter donations in the next year will go toward mental health services and substance abuse treatment.
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mcb

A man convicted of kidnapping and sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl in Denver has been sentenced

A man convicted of kidnapping and sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl in Denver has been sentenced to at least 24 years in prison. Bret Thompson was sentenced yesterday to 18 years in prison for second-degree kidnapping, plus at least six years for sexual assault. The girl was playing with a friend in an alley in 2011 when a man in a van abducted her.
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mcb

A Saudi man convicted of sexual assault is suing Colorado's Department of Corrections

A Saudi man convicted of sexual assault is filing a lawsuit to get records on why his request to serve his sentence in his home country was denied. The suit alleges that Colorado's Department of Corrections denied Homaidan al-Turki the right to inspect his files. It also claims that corrections officials gave the records to the El Paso County Sheriff's Department.
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mcb

Downtown Sterling Historic District could become part of the National Register

The Colorado Historic Preservation Review Board voted unanimously to recommend the Downtown Sterling Historic District become part of the National Register. The nomination gets sent to Washington, D.C. for a final review, and those from the district will get word of a decision in about 60 days (though some estimate it taking about 45). Carl McWilliams, the man who led district surveying efforts with his wife, attended the board's Friday meeting in Denver with a half dozen others from Sterling. He says there was not one single person from the district who was opposed. He'll have the ability to tweak the proposal before it's sent to Washington, where it will be approved or denied by the "keeper of the national register of historic places." If the district is approved, the district would also be automatically added to the Colorado Registry of Historic Places.
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mcb

A Sterling man was arrested after his car was found in a tree

A Sterling man was arrested after his car was found in a tree, yesterday. At about 9:50 last night, 33-year-old Nathan Wade Keeton was arrested and faces several charges. Police found less than two grams of methamphetamine on him.
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mcb

All in favor say "aye."

All in favor say "aye." Sterling City Council members were all in favor of a proposed master plan update, and voted, 6-0 Tuesday night to adopt the 2013 ordinance "in its entirety." Now the master plan has to be finalized at the council's June 11 meeting, and if it is, the planning commission will have their work cut out for them. Several council members said if the update is approved there are some items they'll have to address immediately. Also during the meeting, the city council finally approved the first reading of an ordinance amending Sterling's use of sidewalks and right of ways. There was some confusion about the definition of "obstructions," but they clarified that potted plants wouldn't be considered obstructions unless they were considered a hazard.
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Looking for cheap gas?

Looking for cheap gas? Head to Fort Morgan, which has four of the five cheapest gas stations in Colorado, according to GasBuddy.com. Gas prices in Colorado seem to be holding steady at around $3.81 a gallon. That's about a penny higher than a week ago, and 10 cents more per gallon than last year at the same time. A gas station in Aspen had the highest prices, at $4.49 a gallon. The average price for regular, unleaded gas has dropped two cents to $3.62 since earlier this week.
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mcb

The Fort Morgan Retired School Employees Association held its annual May awards night

The Fort Morgan Retired School Employees Association held its annual May awards night last week at the Sherman Early Childhood cafeteria. Around 40 members and guests were on hand to honor eight RE-3 employees who are all Fort Morgan High School graduates. Also honored were two FMHS seniors who each received a $1,000 "Pass the Torch" scholarship from the FMRSEA.The Fort Morgan Retired School Employees next meeting will be Sept. 17. For information, call 867-2178.
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mcb

Mother nature has not been kind in Morgan County

Mother nature has not been kind in Morgan County. High winds accompanying rain yesterday (5/29)resulted in numerous trees and branches down and some damage to rural buildings around Morgan County. The National Weather Service reported winds in excess of 40 miles per hour. The City of Fort Morgan experienced various power outages in both the city limits and some areas of the county. Some outages were also reported in Brush and Log Lane Village. Morgan County Rural Electric Association officials reported three poles down and scattered outages around the REA service area. Some spot flooding was seen including along Burlington Avenue and Sherman Street, during the downpour, Tuesday, and yesterday. The Fort Morgan Police Department assisted with removing some tree branches as well as traffic control, and also assisted with a rollover accident on Interstate 76 three miles east of Fort Morgan. Some buildings in rural Morgan County were torn up. A fallen tree put a hole in the roof of a house near County Roads O and 16, and a shed was demolished near R and 16. The rain gauge at the Fort Morgan Cemetery recorded a third of an inch of rain.
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mcb

History does not have to repeat itself

History does not have to repeat itself. Those were the words echoed from the six members of the Innovative Connections High school's first graduating class. The Fort Morgan alternative school's principal thanked families, friends and community members for their support, and noted that without the staff's dedication and kind hearts, these students stories may have ended differently. Each member of the class received an award, and hope for a brighter future.
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mcb

Just over 1,000 cadets are graduating today.

Just over 1,000 cadets are graduating today. Volunteer pilots are hoping to make the Air Force Academy's commencement ceremony memorable with a flyover. The Air Force Thunderbirds' demonstration team typically streaks over the academy's commencement ceremonies, but the team canceled several performances this year due to federal budget cuts. Privately owned aerial demonstration teams then said they would do the flyover this year.
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mcb

Fort Morgan is moving full steam ahead with railroad construction

Fort Morgan is moving full steam ahead with railroad construction. A repaving project of railroad crossings to upgrade tracks through Fort Morgan was scheduled to begin at the Barlow Road crossing. Plans call for repaving of the Sherman Street crossing all day today, (Wednesday, May 29). Crews were supposed to start work today. Work on the Deuel Street crossing is on hold for the time being.
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mcb

Morgan County could get soaked today

Morgan County could get soaked today. There's a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, and tomorrow afternoon (Thursday), forecasters say there could be storms lurking in Morgan County.
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mcb

For the first time ever in the history of Northeastern Junior College (NJC), the women’s team has qualified for the national finals rodeo

For the first time ever in the history of Northeastern Junior College (NJC), the women’s team has qualified for the national finals rodeo. The ladies team earned this championship by accumulating the most points in the Central Rocky Mountain region. The CNFR which is the final showdown for the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, will take place June 9-15 in Casper.
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mcb

The race is on for area churches

The race is on for area churches. Four Sterling churches are competing to raise money for a specific need or mission fund. The church that raises the most money will earn the prize. The prize is seeing the churches pastors kiss a pig at a community picnic on June 2 at Pioneer Park in the pavilion. This picnic is open to anyone who wishes to attend and food will be provided potluck style. Festivities will start at 6 p.m. The competitors are Emanuel Baptist, First Baptist, Sterling Foursquare and Trinity Lutheran. Check with those churches for more details.
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mcb

What do Science, technology, engineering and math have in common?

What do Science, technology, engineering and math have in common? They're all part of what participants learn in 4-H. Logan County 4-H kicked off a national rallying event for the National 4-H Youth Science Day (NYSD), at CSU Regional Engagement Center, Oct. 9. 4-H brings together youth, volunteers and educators from the nation's 111 land-grant colleges and universities to complete the National Science Experiment.
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mcb

You've heard, "three's a charm" but for one Wiggin's resident it took six DU's to land him behind bars

You've heard, "three's a charm" but for one Wiggin's resident it took six DU's to land him behind bars. 29-year-old Alan Sidebottom, received three years of community corrections and 18 months of jail time, Wednesday, for his fifth and sixth DUIs. The jail sentence will run concurrently.
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mcb

It was a painful conclusion for two Logan County families

It was a painful conclusion for two Logan County families. After an emotional hearing, 25 year old Sterling resident Edwardo Sanchez, accused in the 2012 drunken driving accident that left his best friend paralyzed, was sentenced to two years probation and nine months behind bars. Sanchez, who was arrested at the scene of the crash, had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit.
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mcb

Looking for something for the kiddo's to do for the summer?

Looking for something for the kiddo's to do for the summer? Morgan Community College is offering a free class to the first 20 students enrolled in the early childhood education course "Creativity and the Young Child" for the summer semester. The curriculum places emphasis on encouraging and supporting creative self-expression and problem solving skills in children, and focuses on developmental strategies in children beginning at birth through age 8. Students will have out-of-class assigned projects. Grants are available to the first 20 students who apply thanks to a programmatic scholarship from MCC that will cover tuition and fees for this course. Participants must apply and register for the class, as well as complete the programmatic scholarship application found online in the financial aid section, under "forms" at MorganCC.edu. The course is offered July 15 through July 17 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Fort Morgan campus. For more information about the class, scholarship or to enroll contact Student Services at the college, or visit MorganCC.edu.
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mcb

You reap what you sow, and that's putting smiles on farmers faces

You reap what you sow. Wheat, corn, sugar beets, alfalfa and other crops Morgan County farmers say, are looking good, despite some freezing weather recently. Almost all of the corn has been planted, with 90 to 95 percent of the plants emerging, even though the planting season had a late start due to wet soil. In fact, farmers say crop conditions overall have been excellent. Every acre of irrigated land available locally has been seeded. There was enough moisture to start the grass in pastures, which is good news for cattle producers. Statewide, planting progress improved significantly by the end of last week, according to the Colorado crop progress report at the National Agricultural Statistics Survey.
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The spotlight will be on new hire Jeff Sparrow at a special Weldon Valley Board of Education meeting tonight (Tuesday, May 28).

The spotlight will be on new hire Jeff Sparrow at a special Weldon Valley Board of Education meeting tonight (Tuesday, May 28). Sparrow, of the Denver metro area, will become principal and athletic director at Weldon Valley. The board had previously approved the hire of Dave Vondy, Brush High School principal, but he has taken an assistant athletic director position at Western State University. Also on the agenda Tuesday will be the hiring of Lisa Strickert as Title I mathematics teacher and parttime classifled employee, and an application for a Colorado Department of Education school readiness assessments grant. The board will also discuss reorganization planned for the June 18 regular meeting. The board will convene at 6 p.m. in the board room at the school, on North Ave.
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mcb

Students marched into Sterling High school as middle schoolers, and walked out as incoming Freshman

Students marched into Sterling High school as middle schoolers, and walked out as incoming Freshman. 138 Sterling Middle School eighth graders became high schoolers at the annual Continuation Night, celebrating an important milestone in their lives, Tuesday night. The students marched into Sterling High gymnasium, as the seventh grade band played “Masterpiece Fanfare.” Principal Bob Hall welcomed friends and family to the ceremony, before student council members lead the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Then, as the seventh grade band played “Enter the Phoenix,” the students proceeded out of the gym and onto the beginning of their high school careers.
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mcb

The 100 Deadliest Days on Colorado Roads Begins Today

The 100 Deadliest Days on Colorado Roads Begins Today, and the heat is on. State and local law enforcement are gearing up for the Heat Is On campaign, started 15 years ago aimed at reducing the number of DUI arrests in Colorado. Law enforcement will be out on the roads over the course of the Memorial weekend looking for law violators. CDOT says the goal is to educate the public on the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, which can easily be avoided by designating a sober driver. Law enforcement will be conducting sobriety checkpoints and beefing up patrols this weekend to prevent unnecessary deaths and injuries.
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mcb

There's a new face joining the Colorado Avalanche

There's a new face joining the Colorado Avalanche. Patrick Roy has sealed the deal as coach, after the team reached an agreement with the Hall of Fame goaltender to take over as coach and vice president of hockey operations. Roy won two Stanley Cups with Colorado. He becomes the sixth coach in Avalanche history.
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A Saudi national serving eight years to life in Colorado for sexually assaulting a housekeeper will learn the fate of his future next week

A Saudi national serving eight years to life in Colorado for sexually assaulting a housekeeper will learn the fate of his future next week. Homaidan al-Turki's parole hearing is scheduled for Tuesday. Prison officials say the hearing is unrelated to his earlier request to be sent to his native Saudi Arabia to serve out his sentence. That request was denied.
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mcb

Colorado's parole system is under scrutiny

Colorado's parole system is under scrutiny. After prisons chief Tom Clements was killed, an investigation of the parole division has been expanded to see if money, or the lack of it, is keeping parole officers from placing some high-risk parolees under intensive supervision. Clements was killed by a parolee in March.
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No injuries have been reported after a man opened fire on three people who broke into his apartment in Colorado Springs early today

No injuries have been reported after a man opened fire on three people who broke into his apartment in Colorado Springs early today. Police are looking for the trio that knocked on the man's door, and tried to force their way in. When the homeowner did not recognize them, he slammed the door, and the intruders started waving a gun, that according to police repots, is when he opened fire on the suspects, before they ran away. Police are investigating.
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mcb

She's top dog at the Greeley Chamber of Commerce, but her bark is bigger than her bite

She's top dog at the Greeley Chamber of Commerce, but her bark is bigger than her bite. As the director of greeting, Sadie, a bull dog, takes her job seriously, hopping up to greet those who walk in the former historic downtown train depot, even taking time to visit all the employees every morning, spreading love with her slobbery smooches. Sadie is one of many four-legged presonell that are popping up in a growing workforce of DOGs in happy offices throughout Greeley. While she by no means is a pioneer in her trade, she and other DOGs are "barking" their way through the canine glass ceiling. While dogs have long been some businesses’ top choice for nighttime security, having them inside the office setting during the day, Chamber folks say, has become invaluable to the workplace.
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mcb

Sterling's Master Plan makeover is nearing the big reveal.

Sterling's Master Plan makeover is nearing the big reveal. Labeled as a “collective vision to guide the future growth and development of our city,” the 2013 Sterling Master Plan update draft promises to boost Sterling's economy, and states the city will thrive as a hub in Northeastern Colorado for retail, recreation, entertainment, education, medical services and tourism. The Sterling City Council will consider approval of the Master Plan proposal at a hearing on May 28.
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mcb

Construction of the Bandshell in Fort Morgan City Park got the green light

Construction of the Bandshell in Fort Morgan City Park got the green light. The Fort Morgan City Council unanimously approved funding for the project, with a $420,000 cap on expenses, with $342,000 raised by the Setting the Stage bandshell fundraising committee, as well as $78,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund.
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mcb

Brush High School made the cut

Brush High School made the cut. The U.S. News and World Report’s annual Academic rankings, placed the school among the highest performing American high schools in the nation, earning them a Bronze ranking. Of the 458 high schools in Colorado, 15 received a gold ranking this year, 23 earned a silver, and 43 were awarded a bronze ranking. The numbers place BHS and the Beetdiggers in the top eight to eighteen percent of American schools.
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mcb

The race is on for the Governor's seat

The race is on for the Governor's seat. Former U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo has become the latest Republican to announce plans to challenge Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper. Tancredo hs been Hickenlooper's biggest critic, and says the last straw was when Hickenlooper granted a delay in the execution of convicted murderer Nathan Dunlap, who killed four people in 1993. Tancredo said he is also upset with Hickenlooper's approval of sweeping gun legislation this year, including a law limiting the size of ammunition magazines. He says he'll run for governor for the state of Colorado, as a Republican this time.
Hickenlooper cruised to victory in 2010. Tancredo briefly left the party to run as a third-party candidate. Steve Laffey, a onetime Republican U.S. Senate candidate in Rhode Island, announced Tuesday he's also running for governor of Colorado.
Republican Secretary of State Scott Gessler has said he will decide next week whether to run. Tancredo gained national attention for blistering attacks on illegal immigrants and briefly ran for president in 2008.
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mcb

There's something different at this year's NJC Foundation Gala

There's something different at this year's NJC Foundation Gala. The dance band format, at the event to benefit the HOPE Scholarship, has been replaced by vocal selections. Songs made famous by the "crooners," including Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett, will be performed at the June 1 event. For more information, call the NJC Foundation Office.
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mcb

Police will be in full force this Memorial Day, all across the state, including in Sterling

Police will be in full force this Memorial Day, all across the state, including in Sterling. The Colorado State Patrol and 63 law enforcement agencies across Colorado are joining the nationwide “Click It or Ticket” campaign, and will be on the lookout for seat belt violators. The ramped up enforcement will last through the end of this month, aimed at getting more Coloradans to buckle up and ultimately save lives. Since Click It or Ticket started in 2002, there has been a 58% decline in unrestrained deaths.
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mcb

Talks about fire safety in Logan County are heating up

Talks about fire safety in Logan County are heating up. Commissioners met Tuesday with Crook Fire officials to discuss ways to impose a stronger fire code for structures in Logan County. While the commissioners agreed they want the county to be fire safe, they also wanted to be sure not to step on anyone else's toes, until other fire districts have had the opportunity to review any proposed changes. Fire districts, including the Sterling Rural Fire Protection District, can adopt codes and procedures, but standards need commissioner approval to be applied throughout the county. Officials said they don’t think there are any county-wide statutes presently.
In other business, the board approved a contract for the financing of several vehicle upgrades for the Logan County Sheriff’s Office. The board also gave the go ahead for the Sterling Boat Club's 4th of July fireworks display, and approved a permit for the sale of fireworks at the Masonic Lodge, with proceeds to benefit the Shriner's. The board also discussed the Planning and Zoning fees for mobile homes, and the county’s insurance loss analysis.
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mcb

It's a Memorial day celebration in Morgan County

It's a Memorial day celebration in Morgan County. Annual Memorial Day observances will be held Monday, throughout Morgan County including in Brush where the morning will begin with the advancing of the colors by the Brush Color Guard. The ceremony will take place at 10:00, at the Brush Memorial Cemetery. Brush American Legion Post 68 Commander Chett McCoy will give a roll call of those to be remembered as well as a roll call of all wars. This year’s ceremony will feature a Civil War program during the Memorial Day Address. Ceremonies will close with the retiring of the colors by a color guard of Brush Veterans.
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mcb

It was five years ago that a tornado touched down in Weld County

It was five years ago that a tornado touched down in Weld County. Residents are marking the fifth anniversary of the May, 22, 2008 tornado, that devastated the town of Windsor, with prayer for the Oklahoma victims. The Windsor tornado had winds over 165 mph, making it an EF3 on a five-point scale, and the twister killed one man, destroyed 78 homes and damaged as many as 3,000 along its 39-mile path. The Moore, Okla. tornado has been tentatively classified as an EF4.
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mcb

Members of the Brush community are spreading the love hundreds of miles away

Members of the Brush community are spreading the love hundreds of miles away. Residents are sending help to families and victims devastated by the tornado that ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, Monday, and organizers say you can help by dropping off donation items like, Bibles, Toothbrushes and toothpaste, Diapers and wipes, clothes, and food, at the local Brush Grocery Kart. One Snyder resident and volunteer is donating his trailer and will be hauling the donated items to the Asbury Medical Supply building in Oklahoma Friday morning, (May 24), and donations will be hauled off Saturday, as well, if necessary. Anyone is welcome to donate to the cause, by simply bringing items to the Brush Grocery Kart drop off. Monetary donations, however, should be sent to Asbury Medical Supply, in Oklahoma City.
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mcb

Friends are gearing up for reading this week

Friends are gearing up for reading this week. Friends of the Sterling Public Library are busy sorting out books donated for it's annual used book sale, and they're hoping to sell a good portion of the 6,000 to 10,000 books they've collected over the past year. at the Logan County Fairgrounds. Members of the Friends — making up roughly 200 people — will get a chance to peruse the selection beginning tomorrow night, (May 22), from 5 and 8 p.m. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. To donate books, bring them to drop off boxes at SunMart, Grocery Mart, Sterling Public Library, and Curves.
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mcb

Sterling Recreation Center got a facelift, just in time for Memorial Day

Sterling Recreation Center got a facelift, just in time for Memorial Day. The Parks, Library and Recreation board got a chance to see the new flooring in the locker rooms and showers, as well as the new surfacing of the deck and inside of the indoor pool, at their meeting on Tuesday. Recreation Superintendent Dennis Klein said the pool was closed for two weeks and the women's showers were closed off and on for about a month to complete the $77,941 project, which was paid for with conservation trust funds. Board members were also able to check out the work being done on the outdoor pool to get it ready to open on Memorial Day, Monday. Work on the pool has also included putting in a new children's slide that used to be at the Plainsman Grill, until the city purchased it from Northeastern Junior College. It will sit where the other children's slide used to be located, while that slide has been moved to a different side of the pool.
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mcb

If you're planning on doing some Memorial Day weekend gardening, make sure you call 811 before you pick up that back hoe

If you're planning on doing some Memorial Day weekend gardening, make sure you call 811 before you pick up that back hoe. Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) reminds everyone to call the Diggers Hotline in Wisconsin, at 811, before beginning any yard project that involves digging because there are lots of utility lines running underground, and hitting one can be dangerous. Utility locate specialists will come to your home, locate and mark all underground utility services in your yard free of charge.
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mcb

Colorado sheriffs are standing their ground

Colorado sheriffs are standing their ground. Law enforcement officials upset with new state gun restrictions adopted in the aftermath of last year's mass shootings are trying to invalidate the regulations with a federal lawsuit filed Friday that argues the measures violate the Second Amendment. At issue are two laws passed this spring that are set to take effect July 1, limiting the size of the of ammunition magazines to 15 rounds and expanding background checks to private and online firearm sales. The lawsuit involves sheriffs from 54 of the state's 64 counties, and most represent rural, gun-friendly areas of the state where they were elected. They said it was their duty to uphold the U.S. Constitution.
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mcb

It's a tie in the race for the vacant Weldon Valley Board of Education seat

It's a tie in the race for the vacant Weldon Valley Board of Education seat. Members will try and break the stalemate between the two candidates at their meeting tonight ( Tuesday ), to replace Rob Chilson as a director. He resigned due to heavy work commitments, and was the board president. The meeting will convene at 7 p.m. in at the school, on North Ave..
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mcb

He was an actor, playing a role.

He was an actor, playing a role. That's what investigators are saying about the man targeted in a shooting at the Atwood Sinclair Station in August 2012. Eric Morales was shot twice by at least three men, who allegedly were trying to rob him, in front of a gas station. But investigators said this was a setup, because Morales allegedly "scammed" the sister of one of the shooters out of $750, and after the shooting, witnesses said Morales asked a third party to "get rid of the gun as he was bleeding out on the sidewalk," and to dump a bag of meth into the South Platte River. Morales apologized to the court yesterday, and said this near death experience has helped him recognize his wrongs. A judge said he understood Morales used his gun in self defense, but added he put himself in that position by dealing drugs. Morales was sentenced to 2 years behind bars.
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mcb

"Permit-happy."

"Permit-happy." That's what Sterling city officials said could happen if a new sidewalk ordinance is taken to the extreme. The city council tabled an ordinance that would have given an outline of what could be put on any sidewalk, "sidewalk area," or "portion of the public right of way." It would also give the city the right to issue a revocable permit to businesses, which some argued, would force them to get a city permit for anything placed on a public right of way. The concern stemmed from one part of the ordinance, which states that "any obstruction, tree, shrub, etc., shall be removed by the owner of the adjacent premises, if the city manager orders it, unless "a revocable permit" was previously approved to use that portion of the sidewalk. The city council will address concerns at their May 28 meeting, .
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mcb

There was a changing of the guard at Brush High School

There was a changing of the guard at Brush High School. There were 16 candidates up for the vacant principal seat at BHS, but it was teacher and Interim Director of the building's Response to Intervention, (RtI) program Dan Kennedy, who will fill the position. Kennedy, who has 18 years of experience in education across Colorado, Texas, and New Mexico, was approved at last week's meeting of the Brush Board of Education. While serving as a teacher at BHS from 2005 to May of last year, Kennedy taught U.S. History, Economics, Government, Civics and Current Issues.
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mcb

The Suncor spill north of Denver is still posing a threat to water supplies

The Suncor spill north of Denver is still posing a threat to water supplies. After 18 months of cleanup around Suncor's oil refinery, contamination of the South Platte River is diminishing, but concentrations of cancer-causing benzene in the water remain six times higher than the national safety standard. The spill, detected in November 2011, still ranks among the toughest environmental challenges in the region. Another oil and gas industry spill this year tainted Parachute Creek in western Colorado. Spills from industry pipelines and storage facilities at 12 other locations have contaminated groundwater with benzene, as well, prompting the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to hold companies accountable for the big spills, ordering a quick of all benzene from soil, water and air.
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mcb

Less people are committing crimes in Ft. Morgan, or they're not getting caught

Less people are committing crimes in Ft. Morgan, or they're not getting caught. A report released this week, showed fewer prisoners were held at the Morgan County Jail last year, with the average daily population at about 93 prisoners, down from 111 in 2006. But, those inmates were more difficult to handle, according to the annual report presented to commissioners Tuesday. Records showed that 186 inmates had chronic, long-term mental illness, and jailers were on suicide watch, 71 times, with two or three watches simultaneously. Officials say this reflects the fact that the jail is handling more and more mentally ill people, who are usually there on relatively minor offenses.
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mcb

Santa's coming to Sterling

Santa's coming to Sterling. With summer just around the corner, the Miracle Letter Program and the Santas of Sterling are sponsoring a Children's Bicycle Safety Day this Saturday, (May 18) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sterling Fire Station. Santas of Sterling will teach kids bicycle safety and maintenance. Area businesses are providing materials, labor and refreshments. Santas of Sterling is also starting a bike exchange program. The public is invited to trade, swap or give the organization a bike to be given to another child. The Mel's Bike Project is in memory of Melvin Meekins, who was known as “the bicycle man.” After he retired he started taking bikes in and fixing them, refurbishing more than 600 bicycles. For more information about Bike Safety Day or Mel's Bike Project, call (970) 580-6580.
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mcb

Ready or not, here we come world.

Ready or not, here we come world. Those were the sentiments ecohed by seventeen students who walked into the Haxtun High School gym Sunday afternoon, and walked out alumni. Several mentions were made during the graduation ceremony of the close connections the classmates have to one another, and to their community. The classmates, collectively, have received more than $100,000 in scholarships to date for 2013. Following the recessional to the class song, "Friends We Won't Forget" by Lee Brice, the graduates formed a receiving line outside to greet their friends, family and neighbors and say a final farewell to their high school careers.
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mcb

Logan County may be in for a “summerlike” week

Logan County may be in for a “summerlike” week. Forecasters are predicting yo-yo-ing temperatures throughout the week, with very little chance of rain to cool things down. Tuesday should be the worst of it; other than a slight breeze throughout the county, expect to bake in hot, dry conditions that will have highs topping out at about 98 in Sterling. That’s more than 20 degrees above May’s average high of 74, though it still doesn’t beat the record of 102 set in 2003. After today's sweltering heat, look for high's in the 80's through the weekend, the NWS says.
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mcb

Security camera's caught a suspect stealing from Mr. D's Ace Hardware last week

Security camera's caught a suspect stealing from Mr. D's Ace Hardware last week. Police say someone wearing a gray hoodie with a Nike swish logo on the front and blue jeans walked into an office on two occasions, minutes apart, and grabbed over a thousand dollars in cash from an unsecured safe, May 4. Investigators say someone may have been casing the store, because the money was taken around 3:00 that afternoon when no one was around. Fort Morgan Police say witnesses described the get away car that the suspect used as a dark colored boxy looking pickup. The case is currently under investigation. There have been unverified rumors that the same thing happened at other stores in the area.
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Worried about taking your computer to the shop because they charge you just to find out what's wrong? Worry no more

Worried about taking your computer to the shop because they charge you just to find out what's wrong? Worry no more. Morgan County computer users have a new option for computer repair and service after the grand opening of Computer World recently. Computer World focuses on computer repair, system optimization and virus removal, and the owner says they offer free diagnostic service, and they will not start work without your approval. Also, the shop usually finishes work the same day, and the idea is to offer affordable services. The new shop is located in Fort Morgan, but says repairmen will come to you if you're home bound.
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More Coloradan's could get health insurance

More Coloradan's could get health insurance. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), AKA "Obamacare," will mean many changes for businesses, including requiring more employers offer "affordable" health insurance options to employees or potentially face fines. Local lobbying group Progressive 15 recently held a day-long summit at the Country Steak-Out in Fort Morgan to inform people about what changes to expect when the new health law takes effect next year. The ACA has already started making amendments to health insurance, and health care, but lots more changes are coming, the audience at the Progressive 15 summit was warned. Right now, nearly two of three Coloradans are covered by employee-sponsored health insurance. To learn more about how health-care reform will affect you, visit colorado.gov/healthreform.
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An eight year old molestation complaint landed one man behind bars

An eight year old molestation complaint landed one man behind bars. 23 year old Bret Erickson, who was accussed of "invasively touching" a 3- to 5-year-old girl when he was about 14 years old learned his fate Wednesday, after a 21/2 year long court process. The now 13 year old victim's father says his daughter recently expressed that Erikson molested her, and the District Attorney's office decided to pursue charges. Erikson was sentenced to three years of community corrections. Both the victim's father and the suspect's stepmother spoke out against Erikson, saying he hasn't shown any remorse to this very day. But his attorney's say Erikson has led a responsible life since the incident, and is successfully raising his one moth old baby girl.
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Some Morgan county seniors are feeling the love

Some Morgan county seniors are feeling the love. The week of May 12-18 is celebrated as National Nursing Home Week (NNHW) and in the City of Brush a variety of activities and events have been planned to honor residents, staff and families and to encourage the entire community to celebrate those that make a positive difference in nursing homes each and every day. The theme for this year's NNHW is ‘Team Care: Everyone Pitches In', and organizers say this observance is an opportunity to involve families, community members, youth and others in a community-wide show of support and respect for seniors and the staff who provide care support services. Each of the three Brush area nursing homes will participate, in this national observance.
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Colorado's high school graduates are getting some help

Colorado's high school graduates are getting some help. Studies show that 40 percent of the 2011 high school graduates were not up to par for college degree level studies in reading, math and English. To help some students close this gap, Northeastern is offering a free summer bridge program for qualifying students traveling from areas outside Sterling. Housing may also be available. Incoming high school juniors and seniors, or current students at NJC may enroll in classes, which run from June 3 to July 18th.
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It's a win - win

It's a win - win. That's what proponents of an energy project to turn solid waste into electricity said Tuesday, during a meeting between Logan, Morgan and Washington Counties regarding a waste energy facility. The Logan County Commissioners approved an agreement between Logan County and Energy Recovery to use the county's solid municipal waste and convert it to electricity, with a plant being built near Fort Morgan. Commissioners said the agreement was a show of good faith that they're willing and ready to move forward with further negotiations.
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A routine traffic stop landed one Logan woman behind bars

A routine traffic stop landed one Logan woman behind bars. Police pulled over 26 year old Christian Thomas Keim, for speeding and found she had more than 12 ounces of marijuana on her. She faces several charges, including drug possession with intent to sell.
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The Best Western in Sterling was robbed, not once but twice

The Best Western in Sterling was robbed, not once but twice. A burglary was reported May 4 and May 7. Police say items were stolen from a safe at the Overland Trail motel. Thieves got away with a $181 in cash, and vandalized a $25 locking cash bag.
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They're in the kitchen at the Logan County Literacy Coalition, and they're looking for cooks to share recipe secrets

They're in the kitchen at the Logan County Literacy Coalition, and they're looking for cooks to share recipe secrets. After a ban on the sale of fireworks in recent years, the coalition has been forced to find alternative means of fundraising, so they're compiling a cookbook and are looking for local recipes. The public is invited to submit recipes to assist in this worthy endeavor.
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Hindsight is 20/20, and the Hindsight is 20/20, and the state is looking ahead of this years wildfires..

Hindsight is 20/20, and the state is looking ahead of this years wildfires. Gov. John Hickenlooper will get his annual update today (Thu) on the wildfire danger, as well as preparedness efforts. While a wet spring has helped ease the threat in the northern and central mountains and the populated Front Range foothills, drought conditions persist across the state. Things are the worst in parts of the Eastern Plains, especially the state's southeastern corner, including parts of Pueblo and El Paso counties. The National Weather Service says drought conditions over the past two years there have not only raised the fire danger but have led to failed or reduced crops and cattle loss and abandonment.
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The man who survived the 1993 shootings at a Chuck E. Cheese in Aurora believes the shooter deserves to die

The man who survived the 1993 shootings at a Chuck E. Cheese in Aurora believes the shooter deserves to die. Bobby Stephens says he's a strong believer that if someone takes a person's life in such a horrific manner, they should get the death penalty. Stephens, who now lives in Colorado Springs, was shot in the face as he and others were cleaning the restaurant after hours. He ran for help and later identified Nathan Dunlap as the killer. Four people wre killed in the shooting spree. Dunlap has been sentenced to death, but his lawyers are asking the courts for mercy, citing Dunlap had undiagnosed bipolar disorder at the time of the shootings.
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The overhauled Public School Finance Act now heads into the home stretch, making a sprint toward the November ballot

The overhauled Public School Finance Act now heads into the home stretch, making a sprint toward the November ballot. After two years of meetings, countless hours of stakeholder discussions, painstaking creation of a bill and then an arduous slog through the legislative process, voters statewide will either embrace an estimated $1.1 billion tax increase necessary to carry out the new distribution plan for education funds, or vote it down. The bipartisan coalition that laid the groundwork for what became Senate Bill 213 — and cleared legislative hurdles last week — must now convince voters on the taxing mechanism, which include a higher flat income tax, a two- or five-tiered setup based on taxpayer income, and options that tweak various other state laws.
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Colorado farmers are hoping Mother Nature is kinder this year

Colorado farmers are hoping Mother Nature is kinder this year. Corn planting is finally underway, after recent snow storms delayed planting this year. Farmers started planting seed last Friday, and by this Tuesday, close to 40 percent of the corn in the county had been sown. That was a big jump from 1 percent that time last week. The recent precipitation means that corn will not need spring irrigation to get it started. Also, local reservoirs are full after winter runoff, so the water will be on hand for irrigation later. Some Front Range reservoirs will still need water, but not those in Northeast Colorado.
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Do you know your neighbors?

Do you know your neighbors? The Morgan County Sheriff's Office wants to make sure you do, and will be conducting a community meeting to provide information to residents about a registered sex offender who has moved into unincorporated Morgan County, south of the town of Wiggins. Join the discussion next Monday night, (May 13) at 7:00, at the Wiggins Fire Hall, on Central Ave. The goal of the meeting is to enhance public safety and protection. Orgaizers say due to the mature content of the information that will be presented, it is not advisable to bring children to the meeting. For more information call the Morgan County Sheriff's Office
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The legalization of marijuana has Logan County Commissioners scrambling to figure out how to monitor the drug

The legalization of marijuana has Logan County Commissioners scrambling to figure out how to monitor the drug. Soon after voters passed Amendment 64, a task force was appointed to research how the product can be regulated and taxed. Tuesday, the Legislature passed a 5 nanograms per milliliter limit for driving while under the influence of THC, the drug in marijuana. Locally, the Logan County Commissioners are looking at how to limit marijuana as well. The commissioners recently approved a proposed ordinance that bans retail marijuana establishments as well as growing facilities. Amendment 64 allows municipalities to place limits on how, or if, marijuana can be produced or sold, and allows the county to prohibit the possession, use, consumption and public display of marijuana on county-owned grounds.
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They'd be turning over in their graves if they could see the disrespect

They'd be turning over in their graves if they could see the disrespect. That's what one resident said during a gathering around Sunset Memorial Gardens, a private cemetery north of Sterling. Residents who visit their loved ones there say the gravesites are abused and neglected, and it's disrespectful to the dead. But a handful of representatives of the Sunset Memorial Gardens committee want to turn that around, and on Monday they met with Sunset Memorial owner Richard Lawler, and members of the Colorado Cemetery Association board. Both parties hope to resolve the grave grievances within the next two weeks.
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Some Morgan Community College graduates are stepping into their future

Some Morgan Community College graduates are stepping into their future. MCC will hold commencement for more than 80 students who have completed their General Equivalency Diploma (GED) testing this year. Tomorrow's ceremonies will held on the east side of MCC's Fort Morgan campus, beginning at 6:00. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to Fort Morgan High School gymnasium.
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Build it and they will come

Build it and they will come. That's a line from the popular 1989 baseball movie, Field of Dreams, but it's a chruch being built that the phrase reflects in this next story. Pastor Cory Knutson, and members of the First Baptist Church broke ground Sunday for a new church building on West Street south of Legion Field, in Ft. Morgan. The 23 year old preacher said when you build something new people will come to check it out, and he's excited the new church will be built in an "unchurched" part of Fort Morgan. There are no churches in the southwest part of town south of the railroad tracks and west of Main Street. The new facility is expected to be constructed by the first of the year, depending on weather.
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You'll have a chance to support your local farmers this summer

You'll have a chance to support your local farmers this summer. The Fleming FFA Chapter, alongside the Sterling Arts Council, are sponsoring a Farmer’s Market from June to October at the Logan County Courthouse parking lot in Sterling Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to noon, offering the freshest produce from the best local growers. Organizers say you're welcome to join them. They have meetings open to the public every second Monday of the month at Pizza Hut around 6 p.m. to discuss any new or old business pertaining to the Farmer’s Market. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 466-1997.
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May 13-17 is National Police Week in Fort Morgan

May 13-17 is National Police Week in Fort Morgan. At last night's City Council meeting Mayor Terry McAlister announce the city will join municipalities, counties and states across the nation in honoring police officers for the work they do, the sacrifices they and their families make, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The mayor also will ask Fort Morgan residents to observe May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day "to honor those peace officers who, through their courageous deeds, have lost their lives or have become disabled in the performance of duty."
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Calling all Morgan County CSU Alumni!

Calling all Morgan County CSU Alumni! Enjoy cocktails and a scholarship awards presentation at the annual alumni dinner, next Monday night, (May 13), at 7:00, at Country Steak-Out Restaurant, on East 8th Avenue, in Fort Morgan. The dean of the College of Agriculture Sciences, will be the featured speaker. The proceeds will benefit the Morgan County CSU Alumni Scholarship Fund. RSVP by this Thursday, (May 9), at (970) 768-1591.
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Head coach of the Wiggins Tigers boys basketball team is feeling the love

Head coach of the Wiggins Tigers boys basketball team is feeling the love. A benefit spaghetti supper will be held for Kevin Olsen, this Saturday, (May 11), at Wiggins elementary, to help with the beloved coach's medical expenses. Olsen was injured in a rollover accident, on I-76, April 9, on his way to an early morning shift, after he hit ice and his pickup rolled, ejecting him out of the passenger window. He laid in the ditch in the snow for 45 minutes before a passery by found him. There will also be a silent auction during the dinner, and T-shirts available to order. There will also be a benefit co-ed softball tournament held June 1 and 2 with a cost of $200 per team. For more information on the supper or tournament, or to donate to the auction call, (970) 380-3668. There's also an account set up in Olsen's name at High Plains Bank in Wiggins for anyone wishing to make monetary donations. Olsen suffered hypothermia and frostbite, and has limited use of his arms and legs. He is currently undergoing rehabilation at Craig Hospital.
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It's a race to the finish line for lawmakers

It's a race to the finish line for lawmakers. The 2013 legislative session ends on Wednesday, (May 8), and legislators say better late than never as they introduce last minute bills to the General Assembly's 100 members. In the running for last minute approval is an 11 year old bill that addresses bringing internet to rural areas. SB - 13-287 passed the Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, May 1. It now awaits action from the full Senate. Proponents say the bill's premise is to use some of the money that currently funds high-cost phone access to fund broadband Internet service in unserved and underserved areas. Also in the race to the finish: A bill to improve pay and accountability for the state's correctional officers, which has cleared the House and is attempting to clear the Senate before the May 8 adjournment.
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Have you ever thought about a career in wind energy?

Have you ever thought about a career in wind energy? Your chance to explore the wind energy industry as a career begins at Northeastern Junior College’s Summer Wind Institute. Students can sign up for the summer short course in wind technology. The month-long course begins in late May, concluding in late June, and was first designed to retrain military veterans returning from service, but has expanded to include the unemployed or underemployed. For more info, call 970-521-6737
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Contractors, real estate professionals and bankers all had some advice on how to get the housing construction projects going in Fort Morgan

Contractors, real estate professionals and bankers all had some advice on how to get the housing construction projects going in Fort Morgan. During a recent forum hosted by the city, officials listened to suggestions from the public as to why housing was not being built in city limits when there was an obvious need, as well as what incentives or changes from the city might help kick-start construction. And listening to those ideas and suggestions was the point of the forum. The forum ened with promises from city officials to work togehter with staff and the council to figure out how streamlining and removing roadblocks to development could be done.
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Decisions, descions. That's what Fort Morgan's Board of Education will face tonight at the start of its meeting

Decisions, descions. That's what Fort Morgan's Board of Education will face tonight at the start of its meeting, as members begin with an executive session on administrator positions. The closed-door session is expected to take about an hour, as members decide who'll replace retiring Fort Morgan High School principal, July Florian. Middle school principal Ben Bauman and assistant principal Rod Link are moving to similar positions at the high school. Baker Central principal, Jason Frasco, will become middle school principal, and Baker's assistant principal, James Farley, will take over as principal. Members will also address late starts, on some days, at Fort Morgan High School, as well as amendments to the 2013-14 school year.The meeting begins at 6:30, at the school support center on West Street and W. Platte Avenue.
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Spring is in the air, and baseball's not far behind

Spring is in the air, and baseball's not far behind. The Class 1A District Baseball Tournament, which was scheduled to be played Thursday at Plainsmen Park, will be in full swing Friday on Tiger Field at Sterling High School. The third place game between Peetz and Briggsdale, took place this morning, as well as the championship contest. The Northeastern Junior College Plainsmen will host Western Nebraska Community College at 2:00 this afternoon in the opening round of the Region IX Tournament at Plainsmen Park. NJC and Western Nebraska will also play Saturday and Sunday, if necessary.
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Changes to The Buffalo RE-4J Board of Education 2013-14 calendar were approved recently

Changes to The Buffalo RE-4J Board of Education 2013-14 calendar were approved recently. In order to participate in the Northeast Collaborative next year, the district had to add seven days to the calendar for Professional Learning Community days. District teachers and administrators from 11 districts will meet to align curriculum, create common assessments and design interventions as well as enrichment activities for students.
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Economic development moved into high gear at a CDOT work session Tuesday

Economic development moved into high gear at a CDOT work session Tuesday. Representatives from the Colorado Department of Transportation were in Sterling this week to meet with the Logan County Commissioners for an open conversation, about ensuring safety, while keeping economic development in mind. CDOT also talked about it's region boundary expansion, which was implented when commissioners and communities were dealing with more than one region. There are 422 positions at CDOT in Region 4 and it will grow to around 520, with 68 to 70 for the new transition. They only have 368 positions filled, and are at 10 to 12 percent vacancy most of the time. Officials also addressed projects in Morgan and Sedgwick counties, and a planned project for Highway 14, to direct traffic from the east side of Sterling to Highway 14 and West Main Street.
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You can send a time capsule to mars

You can send a time capsule to mars. The University of Colorado and NASA is launching their "Going to Mars Campaign," and you can submit your name and a personal message online for a DVD that will be carried aboard their MAVEN spacecraft to probe the Martian upper atmosphere.The DVD will carry every name that is submitted, but only three personal messages, like a three-line poem, or haiku, will be selected. NASA's MAVEN spacecraft is scheduled for launch in November. The deadline for all submissions is July 1. An online public vote to determine the top three messages to be placed on the DVD will begin July 15. Submit names and messages at lasp.colorado.edu.
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Smaller communities are getting a helping hand

Smaller communities are getting a helping hand. Morgan Community College Limon (LIE-mun) Center has graduated the first students from its Advanced Emergency Medical Technician program. The AEMT certification provides EMT's in Colorado communities where they are most needed, and is the first of it's kind east of the Front Range. MCC was able to offer AEMT through the Limon Center utilizing distance learning tools, which allowed students to attend class without having to travel.
For more information about the AEMT program or other emergency medical service courses offered at MCC, contact the nearest MCC Center. Morgan Community College is now registering for summer and fall semesters. Visit MorganCC.edu to apply.
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Motorists will have to deal with construction on two main thoroughfares this month

Motorists will have to deal with construction on two main thoroughfares this month. Bridge repair and maintenance work began yesterdy on Highway 34 from west of Fort Morgan to east of Brush and construction begins next week on Highway 14 near Sterling. Traffic will be affected on 34 from mile marker 158 to 173, with single lane closures, in both directions of the highway, between 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., everyday through May 30, except Fridays, Saturday's, and Sundays. Highway patching with single lane closures is planned between 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. starting Monday, May 6 through Thursday, May 9 on 14 at mile marker 236 near Sterling. Speed limit will be reduced to 40 MPH and there will be single lane closures in both directions of the highway. Motorists should expect delays through both project zones.
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The Friends of the Fort Morgan Public Library are looking for you this weekend

The Friends of the Fort Morgan Public Library are looking for you this weekend. Their first annual meeting for the entire membership is this Saturday afternoon, (May 4), at 1:30, at the Fort Morgan Public Library, and those who attend will have a chance to meet other Friends, enjoy refreshments and express views and ideas on how the Friends might best move forward with the organization to benefit the Fort Morgan Public Library.
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The big reveal of the new and improved Pawnee Buttes Trailhead will have to wait on Mother Nature

The big reveal of the new and improved Pawnee Buttes Trailhead will have to wait on Mother Nature. Due to another round of snowy conditions, roads to the reconstructed Trailhead are likely to be muddy and slick this weekend, and the U.S. Forest Service says they may have to cancel the grand reopening, again. The ceremonies were originally scheduled for April 20, but were rescheduled for this Saturday (May 4), because of bad weather. The U.S. Forest Service was able to complete the improvements at the trailhead, thanks to volunteers, the Federal Highway Administration, the Pawnee Pioneer Trails Scenic and Historic Byway Committee, and Cedar Creek Wind Energy. Approximately $250,000 was spent to reroute the trail, build a new parking area, and add picnic tables, shelters, and restrooms. A portion of the new trail is also ADA accessible.
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Sounds of the ages will echo through the halls of the Brush Area Museum and Cultural Center

Sounds of the ages will echo through the halls of the Brush Area Museum and Cultural Center. The Museum's May edition of the Sack Lunch Program, kicks off tomorrow (Friday, May 3), and members of the Brush Music Club will perform one musical piece to represent each decade, as well as a representation of music and history in Brush. Members of the Club, which was first created in the 1920s as a branch of the national organization of the Federation of Music Clubs, will perform at noon. The lunch program is free and anyone from the public is welcome and encouraged to attend. The
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Fifth graders at Brush’s Beaver Valley Elementary are the first to see the Brush Area Museum and Cultural Center’s latest displays

Fifth graders at Brush’s Beaver Valley Elementary are the first to see the Brush Area Museum and Cultural Center’s latest displays. Even before the Museum opened its doors officially to the public on April 26, students were privy to an hour-long tour through the museum’s many displays and rooms such as the Division of Wildlife display where students get a hands on experience of exhibit items, as well as the Military Exhibit and Honor Room. The Museum sets up special school tours annualy for area students to learn about their community’s history.
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Council members hope residents will come to speak their minds about marijuana legalization

Council members hope residents will come to speak their minds about marijuana legalization. During a series of three public forums, officials will discuss the issue of commercial marijuana establishments in Ft. Morgan, and how the city should deal with the passage last year of Amendment 64, which legalized recreational use of marijuana for adults. The Fort Morgan City Council will host the forums, scheduled for Thursday evenings in May. The City Council had considered several options earlier this year, including an outright ban on commercial marijuana operations in Fort Morgan. Instead, the council chose to impose a moratorium on such establishments through the rest of 2013, until they got more public feedback on what the city should do. The first public forum will be held tonight at 6:00, at Pioneer Elementary School Library on S. Spruce Street, with others to follow every Thursday through May 23, in each of the city's three election wards.
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May Friendship Day is this Friday

May Friendship Day is this Friday. Over 170 countries around the world will observe May Friendship Day, May 3. In Sterling, a service will be sponsored by Logan County Church Women United and held at Christ United Methodist Church, on S. 4th St., starting at 10 a.m. Women and men from all faiths and other interested individuals are invited.
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The Sterling Police Department has a new face

The Sterling Police Department has a new face. The department welcomed, Christopher Fleckenstein, a Sterling resident with Colorado Department of Corrections, and the departments newest cadet who joined the force Monday morning. He becomes the city's second cadet hired since the program started between 2006 and 2007. Because of the cadet program, in which the city gives one applicant a full ride through officer training per year, he's signed on to work with the SPD for the next four years.
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You may see some unusual accitivy around Sterling next week

You may see some unusual accitivy around Sterling next week. On Wed., May 15, the Colorado Department of Corrections Search Team will hold a training exercise. This exercise will include 60 team members, and will be held in and around the town of Fleming, and the City of Sterling, occupying city streets and/or county roads in Logan County.
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A local farmer is spreading the love

A local farmer is spreading the love. The East Morgan County Library and the Hillrose-Snyder Volunteer Fire Department will get the chance to win a $2,500 donation, thanks to the support of, Allyn Wind, and America's Farmers Grow Communities, aimed at supporting counties declared natural disaster areas due to the drought this year. Winning farmers will also have the chance to double donations. Morgan County was declared a disaster area by the USDA, giving Wind the opportunity to choose two organizations to receive $2,500 donations. For a complete list of Grow Communities winners and more program information, visit growcommunities.com.
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"The status of transportation today" moved into the spotlight at a public forum Monday night in Fort Morgan

"The status of transportation today" moved into the spotlight at a public forum Monday night in Fort Morgan. But before transportation officials could get started, the small group gathered at Fort Morgan City Hall started discussing the gas war that seemed to have been going on lately in Fort Morgan. After Maverik gas station opened earlier in April, prices there and at lower-price competitors Sav-O-Mat and Western Convenience had fallen quite a ways below average gas prices elsewhere in northeastern Colorado -- or even up on the Front Range. CDOT's funding comes almost completely from the state's share of gas tax revenue and vehicle registration fees, including the higher registration late fees established in 2009 with the Funding Advancement for Surface Transportation and Economic Recovery (FASTER) law. CDOT pointed out that the FASTER funding, while not popular with many, has been a big help in funding CDOT projects, pointing out that higher gas prices can be beneficial in helping fund CDOT projects.
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April showers are supposed to bring May flowers, but in Denver snow is expected to make yet another spring appearance

April showers are supposed to bring May flowers, but in Denver snow is expected to make yet another spring appearance. Forecasters say Mother Nature was expected to bring about 4 to 6 inches, this evening, in the Denver metro area, and in the western suburbs, such as Arvada (ar-VAD-uh (the middle syllable rhymes with "bad"), Golden, Boulder, Longmont and Fort Collins. Forecast highs for Wednesday were expected to be in the lower 30s. The coldest temperature Denver has ever recorded for a high on May 1 is 33 degrees. Officials say there is light at the end of the tunnel though, as the storm will bring some more moisture, which is good for the area.
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