Ft Morgan City Council Sees 2014 Budget Plan Tomorrow Night

The Fort Morgan City Council hears the first formal presentation of the 2014 city budget at its regular meeting at tomorrow night at 6 at City Hall. The Council and city staff have worked on the budget for about eight months, with a goal of getting it balanced and adopted before the end of the year. The Fort Morgan Times reports City Manager Jeff Wells is expected to ask the council for direction on how the city should pay its $500,000 share of a legal settlement reached by the Municipal Energy Association of Nebraska. The city currently gets much of its electrical power through its participation in the nonprofit MEAN.

Holmes Lawyers May Not Be Ready for February Trial

Lawyers for Colorado theater shooting suspect James Holmes are hinting they might not be ready for trial in February. His lawyers today asked the judge to give them more time to file motions and to set deadlines for prosecutors to turn over a list of witnesses they plan to call. Prosecutors say they don't know how many of the potential 4,000 witnesses they'll actually call. The judge says he'll rule later on the deadlines. Holmes is accused of killing 12 and wounding 70 in a suburban Denver movie theater in July 2012.

Congress May Give Colordao More Flood Repair Cash for Roads

Members of both the U.S. House and Senate are backing more funding to fix Colorado's flood-damaged roads. Both chambers today passed different versions of a bill that lifts the $100 million cap on emergency transportation funds for Colorado. The cap has previously been removed for other states hit by natural disasters. Officials estimate the flooding caused $300 and $500 million in damage to roads.
The House and Senate will have to work out the differences between the two versions before the bill can be sent to the president.

Task Force Recommends Homeowner Fee for High-Risk Wildfire Areas

A task force convened by Gov. Hickenlooper in January says Colorado homeowners living in high-risk wildfire areas should be assessed a fee, and officials should adopt statewide building requirements to mitigate damage from destructive fires. The group's also recommending that the state develop a map of areas where development overlaps with forested areas to calculate risks to individual properties. Hickenlooper says homeowners living in high-risk areas must share some of the responsibility to address wildfire danger. State Lawmakers and local officials will now work to determine what to do with the recommendations.

Logan County residents, hit hard by the recent floods, are getting a helping hand

Logan County residents, hit hard by the recent floods, are getting a helping hand. The Sterling Livestock Commission (SLC), known for their commitment of giving back to the community, has raised $7,780 for the Miracle Letter Program Flood Relief fund. All of the money donated will be used to help Logan County residents affected by the flood.
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Authorities say speeding may be to blame for a one car crash last week that sent two Sterling firefighters to the hospital

(updated Fri. - 9/27/13) Authorities say speeding may be to blame for a one car crash last week that sent two Sterling firefighters to the hospital. The Colorado State Patrol was still investigating the early Sunday morning accident on Highway 138, that injured three people, including the driver, and Sterling Fire Fighter, 26-year-old Travis C. Wiebers, along with two passengers, 27 year old Cody A. Hanson, also with the Sterling fier dept., and 37 year old Mandi S. Philips. Investigators say Wiebers, apparently lost control of the vehicle just east of Crook, before it skidded off the road, rolled twice, and landed on its wheels on top of a fence. Weibers suffered minor injuries and has since been released. The passengers remain hospitalized with life threatening injuries. Chief Kurt Vogel said people can drop off or send cards to the fire station and they will be delivered to the hospital. In the meantime, alcohol and excessive speed are considered to be factors in the accident, and Wiebers has been charged with reckless driving.
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The Brush Oktoberfest was a big hit

The Brush Oktoberfest was a big hit. People from all over Morgan County turned out for the Brush Area Chamber of Commerce's annual fair, which began with a new event — the First Volksmarch, a 5K walk, where about 30 people walked from one end of Brush to the other and back again, starting from the East Morgan County Library park under a Bavarian flag, a symbol of the Volksmarch. After the march, people could stroll by the Oktoberfest, which featured various family friendly activities, including a car show, which featured 80 vehicles from all eras, a Tail Waggin' Dog Show, pony rides and and petting zoo, as well as a ton of food vendors. Organizers say the event just keeps getting bigger and better, thanks to community support.
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Nearly $3,500 was raised to help pay heating bills for Coloradans this winter

Nearly $3,500 was raised to help pay heating bills for Coloradans this winter when Colorado's Touchstone Energy Cooperatives rode in the three-day, 174-mile Pedal the Plains bike tour through southeastern Colorado Sept. 20-22. Morgan County Rural Electric Association was one of 16 electric co-op-connected organizations sponsoring the Touchstone Energy bike team and participating as a sponsor for Pedal the Plains. This was the second year of this well-attended and highly successful cycling rally that celebrates Colorado's eastern plains, its resources and its heritage. Starting in Eads this year, the tour went south to Lamar for an evening of entertainment, west to La Junta for another party on the plains and then north and east back to Eads on the final day.
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Voters will have to decide how a much needed new school will be funded

Voters will have to decide how a much needed new school will be funded. The district has put forward a bond question on this year's ballot to raise the required matching funds for a state Building Excellent Schools Today grant to build a new Fort Morgan Middle School school. Officials say the historic building, built in 1925, is facing myriad issues, including a hazaradous electrical system, plumbing problems inside the walls, and classroom size, which right now is about 617 square feet, well below the state-recommended standards. The current Fort Morgan Middle School is the oldest facility in the district by 30 years. The district is working with various agencies to find a use for the current building that would benefit the community into the future, and says changes other agencies would have to make to the facility would not be as costly, because they would not have to meet the same code requirements the district would have to meet.
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Flood Recovery: Housing

FEMA's approved temporary rental assistance for at least two months. The rental vacancy rate in the Northern Front Range market was 3.5% or less before the flood, and it's substantially more difficult to find a vacant unit. The state's working with private landlords and property management firms to include all available rental units at ColoradoHousingSearch.com.

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The state's housing disaster strategy will focus on finding the resources to meet the needs not covered by the federal disaster assistance programs. Colorado's Congressional delegation's asked HUD for a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery grant. In the Sandy disaster those funds were used to help defray cost not covered by FEMA and flood insurance. The grant was used for residential and commercial property repairs, infrastructure reconstruction, and economic development incentives.

Gov. Frees Up More Funds For Flood Relief

Gov. Hickenlooper's signed an Executive Order making $65.5 million more available for flood response and recovery, bringing total state funds available to $91.5 million. The order authorizes the Director of the Office of Emergency Management to make available up to $20 million for short-term, no interest loans to provide any political subdivision of the state with short-term capital needed for flood response and recovery.

Woman Charged in Beating Death of Suspected Pedophile

A suburban Denver woman accused of beating a man to death with a baseball bat because she suspected him of sexually molesting a child has been formally charged. 30-year-old Forsythia Owen of Englewood appeared in Arapahoe County court today on charges including first-degree murder after deliberation and first-degree assault with a deadly weapon. She is expected to enter a plea in December.
Englewood police say Owen told them she killed 42-year-old Denzel Rainey as he was sleeping in an alley because a child accused the man of sexually abusing her.

Ft. Morgan residents are getting some help

Ft. Morgan residents are getting some help. The Flood Relief Center at Caring Ministries of Morgan County has items such as blankets, personal care kits, diapers, bleach and lots more, all waiting for flood victims to help them recover. Caring Ministries also houses the local Red Cross and Salvation Army outposts, and between the three entities, lots of information and relief help is available. And they've set up a Facebook page that features various local relief efforts where those affected by the flood can post the things they need, or people can also post the various fundraisers or other relief-related events they're planning.
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Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper is considering calling a special legislative session to deal with issues surrounding the Colorado floods

Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper is considering calling a special legislative session to deal with issues surrounding the Colorado floods. Some issues of concern include laws to address looting and potential fraud. A final decision on the special session would be made in the next few days. The regular legislative session starts in January. The governor made the comments while announcing that he'd authorized another $65.5 million for flood recovery efforts, bringing the total amount of state funds he's approved so far to $91.5 million, which he says he hopes will help crews meet the Dec. 1 to reopen roads.
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The West Nile virus has claimed the life of a Mesa County man

The West Nile virus has claimed the life of a Mesa County man. Health officials say the unidentified man died of complications from the West Nile virus. He is the first in Mesa County to die from the virus this year. Officials said, so far six Mesa County residents have been diagnosed with West Nile virus in 2013.
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Fire it up

Fire it up. Not so fast say some rangers ticketing campers in the White River National Forest for smoking marijuana, even though pot use is now legal in Colorado. But authorities say, a new state law that legalized the possession and sale of small amounts of pot does not change the fact that marijuana possession remains illegal on federal land. The White River National Forest, a 2.3-million acre swath of public land that surrounds Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley, is one of the most heavily used national forests in the country. The Aspen Daily News reports rangers are not on the prowl for violators, but they will enforce the law if they catch you smoking.
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Cantaloupe Farmers Facing Fed Charges in 2011 Listeria Outbreak

The owners of a Colorado cantaloupe farm have been arrested on charges from a 2011 listeria outbreak that killed 33 people. Federal prosecutors say brothers Eric and Ryan Jensen were arrested today on charges of introducing adulterated food into interstate commerce. Prosecutors say the FDA the CDC determined the Jensens didn't adequately clean the cantaloupe. The FDA says the melons were probably contaminated in Jensen Farms' packing house. The agency concluded that dirty water on a floor, and old, hard-to-clean equipment probably were to blame. A number of lawsuits were filed by people who were sickened or who had a family member die after the outbreak.

It wasn't just humans affected by the South Platte River flood

It wasn't just humans affected by the South Platte River flood. Some of our furry four legged friends who checked into the temporary small animal shelter at the Logan County Fairgrounds, Sept. 15, are still being housed at the shelter, but it's closing at the end of the week. Their owners are an older couple on a fixed income who lost everything in the flood, and say if a suitable home is not found for the whole family, the dogs need a new home of their own. Anyone who can offer assistance should contact Vic at 970-580-3605, or Lydia at 970-520-9416.
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Recovery is a shared respon-sibility

Recovery is a shared respon-sibility. Those were remarks made by, Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, during a meeting at the Logan County Courthouse this week, about flood ravaged Logan and Sedgwick Counties, and says no one entity can do it all, but that if we all work together, there's light at the end of the tunnel. South Platte River flooding damaged over 200 miles in state highways, more than 50 bridges, and destroyed 20. Hickenlooper said the Federal office of Emergency Management has granted the state permission for temporary bridges, but the state still needs to provide resources for local authorities to rebuild. Officials guess-timate it'll cost $1 billion in housing repairs, but say with FEMA covering as much as 75% of the costs they should be able to help local communities without passing a sales tax. Hickenloooper said he expected the flooded region to be declared a disaster area, and cautioned, Coloradans will have their work cut out for them over the next six months.
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Logan County is going green

Logan County is going green. Commissioners approved a permit, Tuesday, for Ecoplexus to install a two megawatt community solar garden on a 33.997 acre parcel, at Right of Way Road and Riverside Drive, adjacent to Sterling Ethanol and Xcel Energy. Construction on the “self run” site has a start date for this October and is expected to be operational by the end of the year. The farm is expected to save about $3.5 million.
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Beware of wild cats

Beware of wild cats. That's what one Brush woman is warning her neighbors after getting bit by what she believes to be an untamed cat in front of her home at Centennial Housing on Ray Street. Carol Daniels said she was walking her dogs, Sept. 13 when a cat unexpectedly came from behind and bit her. She told authorities that there have been wild cats living in the area for some time. Daniels was urged to get treated for rabies. The Brush police department says there are a few small pockets of wild cats in Brush, and they will provide traps for anyone who believes there might be wild cats in their area. Animal control warned, do not feed stray felines.
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Crews are scrambling to fix up flood damaged roads and bridges, following massive flooding

Crews are scrambling to fix up flood damaged roads and bridges, following massive flooding. Some progress has already been made to restore parts of U.S. 36 between Lyons and Estes Park, giving Colorado flood recovery managers a bit of light at the end of the tunnel, as they hurry to meet a Dec. 1 deadline for getting roads and bridges washed away this month ready for safe travel. The National Guard and CDOT crews are working to fill in washed- out sections of the road and install temporary bridges. In some places, residents are carving their own paths around damaged sections. Gov. John Hickenlooper issued an executive order last week authorizing state agencies to suspend any rule that would "prevent, hinder or delay necessary action in coping with the flood emergency, aimed at making the Dec. 1 deadline easier. Authorities said the cost of permanent fixes to flood-damaged roads in 17 counties could exceed $500 million, rivaling the amount spent after Hurricane Sandy.
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Individuals in Morgan County So Far Not Getting FEMA Help

So far, FEMA's denied assistance to individuals in Morgan County with flood damage. That's not sitting well with Laura Teague, Chair of the Morgan County Board of Commissioners. The county is eligible for help with costs incurred preparing for and responding to the flooding. As for individual property owners, Teague says they will try to get them help. Cong. Cory Gardener's working to see what can be done about help for individuals. Those who do need help can go to the Weldon Valley School on Friday from noon to 7 p.m. to talk with representatives of agencies like the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the 211 help hotline staff and the Small Business Development Center.

Road Repair Work Underway

A convoy of heavy construction equipment is slowly rolling over a high-elevation highway through Rocky Mountain National Park to join a massive highway rebuilding project after the Colorado floods. The damage to state highways is estimated at $430 million. Trail Ridge Road through the national park is closed to other vehicles to make way for the slow-moving convoy, which will be used on road repairs around Estes Park. Crews and construction companies are rushing to make temporary repairs to flood-damaged roadways. 200 miles of state highways and 50 state bridges were destroyed by flooding.

Possible Fed Shutdown Could Impact Flood Recovery

A group of 120 Utah National Guard engineers have been told to wait a week before helping rebuild U.S. 36 between Estes Park and Lyons because of the potential for a government shutdown. A National Guard spokesperson tells the Brush Tribune they're sending a small group to get gear ready in case Congress strikes a deal to keep the government working past next week. Fixing roads and bridges is a race against winters arrival.

Morgan County Commission Has Message for the State

The Morgan County Commission's going to send a resolution to the state supporting finding a way for more rural representation in the state legislature. The Fort Morgan Times reports about two dozen county residents showed up at the 4-H building at the Fairgrounds to displeasure with the way the rural areas are represented at the state Capitol. There are two options many favor-one is secession, and there's the Phillips County option, which would change the way one of the chambers of the Colorado General Assembly's legislators are apportioned, possibly with one from each county, rather than all by population.

Slick roads from heavy rains may have caused a single vehicle rollover crash, Sunday morning

Slick roads from heavy rains may have caused a single vehicle rollover crash, Sunday morning. Police said three Sterling residents were seriously injured in the accident about 3-1/2 miles east of Crook. Travis Wiebers, Chris Hansen, and an unidentified Sterling woman, went off the road and rolled twice. The two passengers were critically injured and flown from the scene to area hospitals. As of Monday afternoon, both passengers were still in critical condition. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation.
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Putting kids safety first

Putting kids safety first. That was one of the things discussed when RE-1 Valley Board members met Monday, after having had to postpone their regular meeting last week due to the South Platte River flooding. During the meeting, superintendent Dr. Jan DeLay said no sooner than the city of Sterling lifted the no flush order Monday morning, another downpour hit, so they decided to wait and open Sterling schools, Wednesday, as opposed to some other schools that opened Monday and yesterday. DeLay says their priority is putting student safety front and center. RE-1 looked at using porta-potty's so that schools could open on Monday. But because of concerns about an E. coli outbreak, and where the waste would go, since the schools were surrounded by flood waters, the district decided to wait until things got a little more stable weather wise.
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Help is on the way for Morgan County residents who suffered losses from the South Platte River floods

Help is on the way for Morgan County residents who suffered losses from the South Platte River floods. An estimated 60 homes in the county have been directly impacted by flooding, and residents can get information about potential aid at two disaster assistance meetings, Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Merino Fire Hall/Community Center, and Friday, from noon to 7 p.m. at the Weldon Valley School.
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The massive flooding is creating a trashy situation for some state landfills

The massive flooding is creating a trashy situation for some state landfills. The cleanup process across flood-ravaged counties is expected to take a while, and officials say extra trash from the after-effects of massive Colorado flooding has reached nearly twice what they're used to facilitating, having gone from 1,000 tons per day to more than 1,700 tons. There was a bit of light at the end of the garbage tunnel though, and officials said, in light of the storms, the state did relax a recent ban on electronic waste, allowing landfills to accept broken TVs and computers.
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More Spills Reported in Oil Patch

More spills are emerging from a Colorado oil patch hit by flooding as soggy conditions continue to hamper attempts to inspect the damage. Three new spills were reported today: 5,100 gallons of oil from a Noble Energy facility east of Kersey, 2,500 gallons from a PDC Energy location east of Greeley and an unknown volume from a Mineral Resources operation west of LaSalle. State officials are now tracking 11 "notable" releases from the Wattenberg oil patch along the South Platte River in Weld County. The amount of crude spilled totals at least 34,500 gallons.

Colorado National Guardsman Killed in Afghanistan

A member of the Colorado Army National Guard has been killed in Afghanistan. 32-year old Staff Sgt. Liam Nevins of Denver was among three soldiers who died Sept. 21 from wounds suffered when their unit was attacked while conducting range training. All were assigned to Special Forces units. Nevins was on his fourth combat deployment.

Mother Nature is giving Colorado residents a bit of a reprieve from heavy rains, but forecasters are warning it's not exactly over, yet

Mother Nature is giving Colorado residents a bit of a reprieve from heavy rains, but forecasters are warning it's not exactly over, yet. The National Weather Service issued flash flood and small stream flood advisories for much of the northeastern Colorado plains Monday as rain fall tally's, Monday totaled nearly two more inches. Counties under advisories included southeastern Morgan, southwestern Washington, extreme eastern Adams, Weld and Logan counties. Logan County was under the most severe precautions, though immediate flood threats along the South Platte River were dissipating along with the rain moving slowly east Monday afternoon.
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Vice President Joe Biden is coming to Colorado Monday to view the damage from recent flooding

Vice President Joe Biden is coming to Colorado Monday to view the damage from recent flooding. Biden will also survey the recovery efforts under way. After the tour, Biden, Gov. John Hickenlooper and FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate will review their findings. A long recovery process has started in Colorado following devastating flooding that killed seven and wreaked havoc across 17 counties and 2,000 square miles. In Ft. Morgan, Mayor Terry McAlister has declared a disaster and emergency proclamation within the City.
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Flooding Not A Big Headache for Morgan County Agriculture Producers

Morgan County agricultural producers have seen little damage from the flooding overall. According to the Fort Morgan Times, most of the areas in which flood waters overflowed the banks of the South Platte River were pastures, and cattle producers had plenty of warning to get their stock out of those and other fields. Crops in standing water may rot before the water dries up, but more than 95% of crops in the county were not touched by the flooding at all.

Wiggins Gets New Water

Wiggins new water supply's started flowing. It still has to be cleaned up. The Fort Morgan Times reports the water will be clean soon, but the in-town water pipe system still has nitrate residues, and town officials are monitoring it. Things should be cleared up by the beginning of next week. Town officials have been told that it may be until Thanksgiving before the town's water blending equipment is in place. That equipment would blend the old water supply with the new supply to stretch the amount of water the town has on hand.

More of the Missing Accounted For

Boulder County emergency officials say all people reported missing by family and friends in flooded communities have been accounted for. Jennifer Bray says five teams of detectives have been compiling lists, eliminating duplicate names, cross-checking evacuees and going door to door to track down people.
Bray says emergency officials are still getting 20 to 40 calls per day of missing people, but many have turned out to be unfounded or for people located outside the county. Larimer County sheriff's spokesperson John Schulz says the number of people unaccounted for there stands at 139, but is expected to drop.

Distribution center open at Logan Co. fairgrounds

A bulk distribution center has opened under the south end of the Logan County Fairgrounds grandstands.

The Journal-Advocate reports the center accepting cleaning kits, cases of water, toilet paper, gloves, and personal wipes.

The center remains active while supplies last. It operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Economic figures for Colorado coming out today

The release of state economic figures today influences the governor's November budget proposal to lawmakers for next year.

The previous forecast in June showed the state economy continued to grow, with employment levels back to pre-recession numbers.

However, the floods could dampen the growth.

People with flood damage urged to contact FEMA

People who have experienced any property damage or other loss as a result of flooding are urged to contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency.


FEMA can help property owners evaluate the damage or loss and determine whether assistance may be available. Residents should contact FEMA regardless of whether they carry flood insurance or not, because aid may still be available.

The number to call is (800) 621-FEMA (3362).

Property owners who have experienced flood-related losses or damage are encouraged to contact FEMA as soon as possible to inform the agency of the damage and find out what assistance may be available.

Those with flood damage or losses can also visit www.disasterassistance.gov/ and get information on potential sources of assistance and aid. Visitors to this website can fill out an anonymous 11-question survey to determine their possible qualification for assistance, and be linked directly to many aid agencies.

Morgan Co., Fort Morgan have preliminary flood damage estimates

Officials hope for federal, state aid to deal with millions in losses


On Sept. 14, 2013, at 6:15 p.m., the Morgan County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed a Disaster and Emergency in Morgan County as a result of the major flooding of the South Platte River. The City of Fort Morgan enacted a similar proclamation and disaster declaration for the city soon thereafter.

The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from various agencies and departments, effectively coordinated the immediate response to actual and potential losses across the entire county. Fort Morgan officials established an Emergency Operations Center to coordinate similar efforts within the city, and worked closely with the sheriff’s office and other county and agency officials at in incident command post in the field.

The recovery and assessment phase was immediately initiated by the Morgan County Commissioners through the county departments to produce a Preliminary Damage Assessment for the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the State of Colorado.

The County’s Preliminary Damage Assessment submitted on Sept. 18 contained the following information:
-- Individual Assistance – Residential Property Damage: $1,510,800 (For residential assessment information please contact Bob Wooldridge, Morgan County Assessor at (970) 867-3512.)
-- County Bridge Infrastructure: $4,560,000
-- County Asphalt Infrastructure: $3,350,000
-- Gravel Road Infrastructure: $786,000

Most of the damage in the City of Fort Morgan was sustained in Riverside Park along the river, which remains closed indefinitely. The park damage includes facilities like playing fields, ponds and shelters as well as substantial damage to numerous hiking trails and the riverbank itself.

The city is also estimating the cost of its emergency response to the flood, which involved many city employees working long hours, especially during the first two days of the emergency. The cost of city employee labor alone from the time the response started through Sept. 18 is about $30,000.

The city’s total damages and expenditures are expected to exceed $20 million. City infrastructure damage and cost estimates are still being finalized and will be submitted to the state and FEMA soon.

CDOT creates infrastructure recovery force

Governor John Hickelooper and Colorado Department of Transportation Executive Director Don Hunt today announced the establishment of an infrastructure recovery force (IR Force) to clear, repair and reconstruct components of the state highway system caused by the recent flooding by December 1, before the onset of winter. The IR Force will also provide coordination and assistance to local government in reestablishing critical links to local roads, bridges, water, sewer, power, and communications.



“This Infrastructure Recovery Force will help provide a single point of focus and coordination to help us reconnect our communities and rebuild Colorado’s roads and bridges,” said Governor John Hickenlooper. “It will have three primary objectives: speed, efficiency and to improve our transportation system.”



Scot Cuthbertson, CDOT Deputy Director and Johnny Olson, current Regional Transportation Director for Region 4 – Greeley will command the IR Force which will adopt an Incident Command Structure. Heidi Bimmerle Humphreys will become acting CDOT Deputy Director while Myron Hora will become acting RTD for Region 4. Cuthbertson and Olson will be joined by a reassignment of CDOT staff to the IR Force whose mission will be focused on:

· Response: Including debris clearing, temporary road building and portable bridges. The work will be conducted by CDOT staff, emergency contractors and National Guard where possible. This work will be conducted in the next few months.



· Recovery: Including more traditional infrastructure construction which will occur over the next year to establish permanent roadways and bridges.



The IR Force will accomplish recovery work through the rotational assignment of statewide CDOT maintenance, engineering, and support employees. In addition, CDOT personnel will be supplemented by private construction forces and National Guard. The Incident Command Structure which includes several key support areas including operations, planning, logistics, finance/admin, communications, safety and liaisons to communities.



Work has already begun to continue assessment and begin repairs on the 200 lane miles of state highway and 50 bridges that have been destroyed, damaged or impacted by the flood. The Federal Highway Administration has made $35 million in “Quick Release” emergency fund relief available and the CDOT Transportation Commission has allocated $100 million to begin initial repairs.



“With winter on our heels, we will be restoring routes to communities that currently have limited access,” said CDOT Executive Director Don Hunt. “Over the next 60 days, our IR Force, with help from the contracting community, National Guard and our state and federal partners, will focus on removing debris and building temporary roads to improve access to as many impacted routes as possible. It is imperative that we restore as much highway infrastructure as possible in the next two to three months.”

You Can Shower This Evening at the Merino Fire Department

This is day four of the NO FLUSH order and if need a shower, you have options. The Journal Advocate reports Merino's Fire Department will be open from 6 to 10 p.m. today for HOT showers. It is open to the public for free. They ask that you bring your own towels and soap. North Sterling State Park is offering free entrance if you are going to do laundry or take showers. Remember to take your own quarters. Passes are required for other activities there. Fleming School will also be opening their showers to anyone that would like to use them from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday, during the Fleming Fall Festival.

Crews continue workign to restart Sterling's sewer pumps

Work continues in Sterling on a new plan to get the city's sewer system up and running again.

The city's no-flush order also continues.

Crews Tuesday night found open manholes under the floodwaters near the headwater facility, and these allowed the river to rush through the lines. They pumped out river water, not the sewers.

Yesterday, crews went up the line to a dry manhole to connect a temporary pipeline through the flood to the pumping facility so the sewage could get to the plant.

Sanitation supervisor Jeff Reeves tells the Journal-Advocate that officials believed this would work, but no one could guarantee that it would.

Lyons residents going home

People from Lyons have started returning home today.

The town, however, still has a no-flush order, as well as one to boil water.

Emergency management officials say Lyons has 166 single residences damaged, 120 of them destroyed.

Officials also say 28 commercial properties have sustained damage in town, one of them a total loss.

Millions in aid hardly covers infrastructure repairs

State transportation officials say millions of dollars in assistance for flood recovery barely covers fixing damaged infrastructure.

They say the initial effort to repair washed out roads, bridges and dams would drain its road fund of $100 million.

The federal government has donated $35 million for the effort this week.

Officials say some isolated communities may have to wait a year before solid roads reach their town.

Worst possibly over in Morgan Co., repairs continuing

Morgan County's sheriff reports a small surge from heavy rains along the Front Range Sunday, but most places did not notice it.

Jim Crone says the surge has now probably made its way to the far end of the county and may pass before people realize it. He says flows have dropped steadily, but water may remain up in the main channel for some time.

Crone believes the flow in Weldona on Saturday hit 18 feet, which the National Weather Service considers major flooding. He mentions the record dating back to 1973 at 11.7 feet.

The sheriff further says the county's crews continue working with the ones from CDOT to fix and reopen bridges and roads. Some of these crossings may take a lot of work, but Crone hopes a couple other bridges open in the next week or two.

CDOT and the county also contine working to haul dirt and gravel, and Fort Morgan crews have worked with CDOT, too.

Logan Meals

Logan County's Emergency Management Office says meals are being provided by the Salvation Army in Sterling. A canteen truck's at the Sterling Middle School. The Journal Advocate reports meal times are 8 a.m. for breakfast, noon for lunch and 5:30 p.m. for dinner. Citizens who are unable to cook or access meals are able to take meals from that location or eat at SMS. If you have questions, call OEM at (970) 522-8600. The city of Sterling water has not been shut off. The NO Flush order remains in effect, as there have been reports of the sewage backing up into some homes.

Free Tetanus Shots for Flood Victims and Rescuers

Free tetanus shots are being offered for Colorado flood victims and rescuers. The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment says there are a limited number of shots available for people who have been or will be exposed to flood waters or involved in cleanup efforts. The vaccines will be available at the Northern Colorado Disaster Assistance Center tomorrow.

Colorado Air Rescue Effort Winding Down

Colorado officials say the emergency response to the flood disaster is ending and the long and arduous task of recovery has begun. Sheriff Joe Pelle says rescue workers are ending "high octane" search-and-rescue operations. Searchers are now going door-to-door and looking through debris piles and vehicles for victims and damage in the flood-scarred areas of the foothills. Those crews include FEMA urban search-and-rescue teams with search dogs and medical supplies. Lt. Col. Mitch Utterback of the Colorado National Guard says some of the helicopters flying rescue missions may be returned to Fort Carson. As the airlifts taper off, so have the number of missing, now down to just over 300 by this morning. There've been six confirmed deaths.

RE-1 parent concerned over student safety on bus

A parent in the RE-1 Valley School District has questioned student safety on school buses.

Heather Robertson tells the Journal-Advocate that her Caliche kindergartner son argued with his cousin on the bus on the first day of school. She says the bus driver moved her next to the bus driver's son.

Robertson claims the bus driver told Robertson's son that he if he so much as touched the bus driver's son, then she would throw him off the bus.

Robertson says she called the district's transportation department, and it said it could not do anything about it.

Robertson has also mentioned a second incident involving the bus driver getting off the bus and grabbing another child by the arm. At some point after the driver got back on the bus, Robertson claims the driver grabbed her son by the arm and shoved him toward the bus.

Additionally, Robertson says the bus had a paraprofessional on board that did nothing. She says she filed a report with the sheriff's office and went to the school to discuss the situation. Once again, people told her nothing would come of this.

Superintendent Jan DeLay says an investigation shows no evidence of any wrongdoing by the bus driver.

New water supply flowing in Wiggins

The final piece of pipeline has finished to allow new water into Wiggins.

Interim administrator Jon Richardson has told the town board that the pipe has passed its final flushing and testing.

This brings water from a new well to replace the supply from old failing ones.

The Fort Morgan Times reports Richardson calling filling the town water tank the next order of business. However, he acknowledges wet weather may delay that first step a bit.

Morgan Co. sheriff's office taking flooding seriously

The Morgan County Sheriff's Office is notifying county residents of a Flood WARNING for the South Platte River in Morgan County, likely lasting into late weekend. There is NO immediate danger relating to the rising water (this is not a FLASH Flood Warning). There are NO evacuations anticipated however until rains quit west of us, the expected level of the crest of the flood is not known, nor when the river is expected to crest. But depending on how high the level rises, highway, road and bridge closures are a very real possibility.




We have had no reports of flooding yet however the South Platte River water levels will rise steadily and potential record flood levels are possible for Morgan County. So long as we do not receive significant local rainfall, our potential for flash flooding like the Front Range is experiencing, is low at this point.




Livestock owners along the Platte should consider moving their stock to higher ground. We STRONGLY DISCOURAGE any canoeing, inner tubing, boating or swimming on the river until it reaches more seasonal levels.




We encourage people to monitor local radio and television stations for any important updates. We will also post updates on the sheriff's office Facebook page and will try and put updates on the sheriff's office website.

Flood warnings continue for NE CO

A general flood warning remains for northeastern Colorado until 7:30 tonight.

Emergency Management reports flooding continuing in many spots from Denver's northwestern suburbs to Fort Collins. Many roads have closed, and the flooding has washed out some roads and bridges.

The National Weather Service reports as much as 15 inches of rain falling in and around the Front Range foothills. Additional rain today may cause more flooding in areas where the water has receded.

More specifically, a flood warning contnues for the South Platte River near Weldona in Morgan County, as well as near Balzac affecting Logan, Morgan, and Washington counties.

Because of the saturation and possibly unstable conditions of state highways, CDOT has advised people to avoid unnecessary driving in Boulder, as well as Larimer, Jefferson, and Clear Creek counties. While a road may look passable, those near water flow may have damage that does not look obvious. Many highways and bridges remain closed until crews can evaluate whether or not people can safely drive over there.

S. Platte River Flood Warning Extended Through Monday

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IS CONTINUING THE FLOOD WARNING FOR THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER NEAR BALZAC FROM SATURDAY AFTERNOON TO MONDAY MORNING...OR UNTIL THE RIVER DROPS BELOW FLOOD STAGE. EARLIER THIS AFTERNBOON, THE RIVER WAS AT 3.3 FEET. FLOOD STAGE IS 10 FEET. MINOR FLOODING IS FORECAST, AND THE RIVER COULD RISE ABOVE FLOOD STAGE BY SATURDAY AFTERNOON AND CONTINUE UP TO NEAR 10.5 FEET BY SUNDAY MORNING. THE RIVER WILL FALL BELOW FLOOD STAGE BY EARLY MONDAY MORNING. IF IT GETS TO 10.5 FEET, THE WATER WILL BE FLOWING OVER THE RAILROAD TRACKS SOUTH OF MERINO.

Gandee named new Sterling parks/library/rec director

Sterling has a new parks, library and recreation director.

Wade Gandee has changed jobs and accepted the position. He has previously served as superintendent of parks, forestry and cemetery.

The Journal-Advocate reports Gandee saying 3,000 surveys have gone out to city residents this week concerning an update to the parks and recreation master plan.

The company overseeing the update hopes to have the final master plan by the end of February.

Utah has arrest warrant for Log Lane's Nipper

Authorities in Utah have a warrant for the arrest of Log Lane Village Trustee Roy Nipper.

Town Marshal Fred Cook tells The Fort Morgan Times that a concerned resident alerted him to this possibility last week.

The Class 3 charge of felony possession of a controlled substance against Nipper dates from 2003 in Salt Lake City.

However, Cook and a court clerk in Salt Lake City say Utah does not extradiate from other states for felonies less than classes 1 or 2.

Cook says the case aginst Nipper has to do with alleged meth and pot possession near a church, as well as alleged child endangerment.

Flash flood warnings over -- for now

All flash flood warnings for Northeastern Colorado have now expired. However, general flood warnings continue until eight-thirty tonight for much of the region. The National Weather Service has more specific flood warnings for the South Platte River near Weldona affecting Morgan County, as well as near Balzac affecting Logan, Morgan and Washington counties. These run through Saturday. Rain continues today, especially along the front range.

Mogan Cty Commissioners Deny Permit for New Concept Inn

Morgan County Commissioners said no to a conditional use permit for the New Concept Inn. The Fort Morgan Times reports the commissioners say owner Gary DeJohn didn't do his homework, and hadn't filled out all the paperwork for the permit application, an issue he was made aware of at a previous meeting. Among the items not addressed by DeJohn a description of the impact of the project on the neighbors in the area, many of whom had complained that the motel was frequently an eyesore and not repaired.

A Logan county farm has joined the 2013 honorees for 100 years of ownership and farming by the same family

A Logan county farm has joined the 2013 honorees for 100 years of ownership and farming by the same family. Becky Thomas Jackson said her father, Leroy Thomas, who died in 1996, had begun the application process to have the the McDonald-Thomas family farm named a Colorado Centennial Farm, and she was finally able to complete the process. The Logan County farm, located in the Fleming area, is actually more than 120 years old, started in 1887. Today, Leroy's children still farm the nearly 850 acres. With this year's honorees, 414 family farms and ranches in 61 of the 64 Colorado counties have been designated through the program since its inception.
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Sterling we have a problem

Sterling we have a problem. That's what Toni Harms and Colleen Dowell told the Sterling Area League of Women Voters Sunday about the methamphetamine epidemic. And that's why they want to start, Clean Slate, a new recovery program made up of individuals “who care about the issue", as well as some recovering drug addicts committed to making a difference. Harms, who works for the Logan County Department of Human Services, is part of Bridge to Recovery group that's been meeting since January to talk about solutions to the meth problem, and in addition to Human Services, the group also includes representatives from the Probation Office and Northeast Colorado Health Department, among others. Clean Slate will use recovery coaches to help people get clean, and the goal of the program is long-term recovery. A Facebook page for Clean Slate is being setup, and the program is also partnering with the Logan County drug court.
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Do you know where your child is?

Do you know where your child is? You soon will, thanks to the new Denver Public Schools student tracking system, designed to keep kids safe and parents informed. Next month, DPS will begin issuing electronic bus cards to about 26,000 children in an effort to strengthen safety measures for those who take a bus to school. The system, estimated to cost about $748,000 over three years, is one of several adopted by districts throughout Colorado that provides parents with the times and places children get on and get off buses as well as tracking those buses while in transit. Starting in October, district officials will begin training other campuses to implement the monitoring system, that allows parents access to the information about their child through a secure website. Officials said all of the district's campuses should be using the student tracking system by the end of January.
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The first reading of several ordinances that would regulate the sale or growing of marijuana within Brush city limits was approved at the Brush City Council meeting Monday

The first reading of several ordinances that would regulate the sale or growing of marijuana within Brush city limits was approved at the Brush City Council meeting Monday, (Sept. 9). Members voted unanimously to approve amending an ordinance prohibiting marijuana cultivation facilities, as well as manufacturing and testing facilities, and retail marijuana stores in Brush. Another amendment to an ordinance regulating the growing of marijuana for medical or personal use, was also approved.
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Court Gets Mental Evaluation on Alleged Theater Shooter

The mental health evaluation that will play a key role in the trial of theater shooting suspect James Holmes has been filed with the court. Court records say a 128-page reports a 128-page report prepared by the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo was received Friday, but it will not be made public. Holmes has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the July 20, 2012, shooting that killed 12 people and injured 70 others.

Joint Giveaway to Protest High Taxes Proposed for Recreartional Pot

Hundreds of people lined up at Civic Center Park in Denver today for a free joint. It's part of a protest against plans to impose high taxes on the drug which is now legal for recreational use in Colorado. Littletree Oppy is one of two people handing out the cigarettes, and she says people who can't afford to pay would be forced to go to the black market.

Mile High Million Tree Project Short of Goal

An initiative to plant a million trees in Denver has fallen short. The Denver Post reports that between 250,000 and 500,000 trees had been planted since 2006 as part of the Mile High Million tree initiative. Funding from Suncor Energy for the program that was started by former Mayor John Hickenlooper ended last year. City officials say the focus now is on maintaining the city's existing 2.2 million trees. City forester Rob Davis says the region is preparing for the emerald ash borer. The beetle from Asia has damaged forests throughout the Midwest and East Coast. Last year the beetle showed up in Kansas and Davis says it's possible it could make it here.

Community Caring Hands is feeling the love

Community Caring Hands is feeling the love. The social service non-profit was one of two Sterling-area facilities to receive a $1,000 Community Service Award this year. $61,000 was handed out in donations to 29 northern Colorado organizations, including Logan County Literacy Coalition. CCHI is looking for new board members, and volunteers to help. The board meets at 5:15 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at the Family Resource Center. Anyone interested in joining the board or willing to help in the community should attend a board meeting. Anyone in need of CCHI's services can call or contact the organization to see if they qualify.
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The results are in, and it appears expanded background checks for gun purchases is working, or is it?

The results are in, and it appears expanded background checks for gun purchases is working, or is it? In the first month of the new legislation, 561 private gun sellers did comply with the new law, and ten denials were issued, because of the background checks. Proponents of the bill say that's a win, but those who've expressed opposition, say the numbers have little or no impact. The hotly debated measure in the past legislative session resulted in threats of violence against lawmakers and protests outside the state Capitol. Now, with the initial results out the back-and-forth battles continue, with lawmakers on both sides of the measure claiming that the numbers prove "their right." But the sponsors of House Bill 1229 said the 561 background checks in July by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation for private sales and the denials issued means one thing: The bill is working. Fifty-five sheriffs in the state disagree, and are part of a lawsuit filed to have the measure declared unconstitutional.
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Money Available for Non-Profits Serving Young People in Greeley

The Community Foundation serving Greeley and Weld County is accepting applications for the 114th Distribution of the Littler Youth Fund until Sept. 13. The Greeley Tribune reports Nonprofits supporting youth programs in Weld County are eligible to apply. The Littler Youth Fund was established in 1972 by Hubert and Mary Littler. Since then, it has granted over $2.7 million. For guidelines and applications, visit www.cfsgwc.org.

Probe of Synthetic Pot Teams Federal, State, and Local Health Officials

Colorado's health department is teaming up with the CDC and local health agencies to investigate a string of illnesses related to synthetic marijuana use. The Denver Post reports three recent deaths may be related to the drugs, which are illegal. Denver-area hospitals have reported about 75 cases of synthetic pot illness in recent weeks. The drugs don't disclose their chemicals. Emergency room patients often are aggressive toward caregivers and treatment can last for days. Some users reportedly had run into traffic or jumped from heights after taking the drug.

Guilty Plea in Murder of Commecer City Teen

A 24-year-old man faces 80 years in prison after pleading guilty to the kidnapping and killing of a 14-year old Gabriela Acosta of Commerce City. As part of a deal with prosecutors, Ezequiel Padilla-Villalobos today pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and second-degree kidnapping of a child. Acosta, who was his girlfriend's sister. He allegedly told investigators his girlfriend had asked him to pick up Acosta from their mother's house in Broomfield and that he had thoughts of killing the girl while he was driving. He also allegedly had beer and cocaine before the murder. He'll be Sentenced in November.

Transparency. That's the RE-1 Valley Board of Education's goal this school year

Transparency. That's the RE-1 Valley Board of Education's goal this school year, as conveyed by Superintendent Dr. Jan DeLay during Tuesday's meeting, where she presented the board suggestions for procedural guidelines, including an updated stipend schedule for teachers and principals, in an effort to increase the transparency, so that everybody knows what's going on. Delay also recommended putting in place a clear job description for anything that has a stipend. DeLay pointed out that right now, with the school year already beginning, people are doing certain extra jobs they've always done, but in the future extra duty activities could be posted so those interested will have a chance to apply. The board will need to approve the procedural guidelines at a future meeting.
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The wet weather isn't expected to affect road work for Sterling's Street Improvement Project

The wet weather isn't expected to affect road work for Sterling's Street Improvement Project. Officials said they don't expect the slight moisture from the storm to delay construction on Lincoln, Dawes and Cedar streets. Forecasters say it's not likely Mother Nature will be making a repeat performance, as the region will soon see the unseasonably high temperatures continue, with a slight chance of evening thunderstorms this weekend, helping cool things down into early next week.
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Crews were busy in Sterling yesterday cleaning up a visit from Mother Nature, following Wednesday's storms

Crews were busy in Sterling yesterday cleaning up a visit from Mother Nature, following Wednesday's storms. It really wasn't as bad as it looked, with less than a quarter of an inch of the wet stuff reported at Sterling Municipal Airport Wednesday night. But officials said strong winds that accompanied the storm stuck around a little longer, bringing wind gusts of over 20 mph. While Sterling dispatchers didn't receive any reports of extensive damage yesterday morning (9/5) there were tree limbs, branches, and a few trees down in various parts of town, including Sherwood Village and Columbine Park where a tree that was 25 to 35 years old was uprooted. Crews were expected to assess the damage from Wednesday's storms, Friday.
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A coalition of environmental groups is launching a fundraising drive to restore part of the overtaxed Colorado River

A coalition of environmental groups is launching a fundraising drive to restore part of the overtaxed Colorado River that has become more desert than delta. Conservationists from Mexico and the U.S., including actor Robert Redford, will gather Saturday at the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix for a "low-water-use" gala. Redford will give remarks as well as screen "Watershed," a documentary on the river system he and his son produced. The director of the Colorado River Campaign, Gary Wockner, says there's an opportunity to restore the river delta, which lies in Mexico and once had 2 million acres of wetlands. Looming shortages are predicted on the river serving some 40 million people in California, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico and Wyoming. Mexico also has a stake.
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Turnout in Colorado's first legislative recall elections has been strong so far

Turnout in Colorado's first legislative recall elections has been strong so far. Some voting centers opened early Friday in El Paso County after lines formed on the first day of early voting there. Nearly 3,600 people voted Thursday. Officials said that turnout is similar to turnout on a busy day during a presidential election. Early voting has been underway in Pueblo County for a week with more than 7,000 people voting so far. More voting centers were added Thursday. Gun rights advocates launched a recall initiative against both Senate President John Morse and Sen. Angela Giron because they voted for stricter gun laws, including limiting the size of ammunition magazines and requiring universal background checks.
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The commander of Fort Carson's hospital has been suspended

The commander of Fort Carson's hospital has been suspended as the Army investigates allegations of inappropriate behavior. It was announced, Wednesday, that Col. John McGrath was removed from command at the Evans Army Community Hospital because of the investigation. No word on what he's accused of doing. McGrath has been a doctor in the Army for 29 years and has been commander of the hospital since January 2012. He deployed to Iraq twice and has received awards including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.
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Officials in Durango are urging residents to keep their pets safe from foraging bears

Officials in Durango are urging residents to keep their pets safe from foraging bears after a 14-year-old pet miniature horse was attacked and killed. Officials said the horse was just 32 inches tall and weighed less than 200 pounds. It was in an enclosed pasture just outside Durango when it was attacked last Saturday. Wildlife officers set a trap for the bear but eventually removed it so as not to attract other predators. A state wildlife spokesman says bears preparing for winter have killed two sheep and a goat in the area in recent weeks.
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Program Coming to Brush to Help Families of Those With Mental Illness

Family members of people living with a serious mental illness can greatly benefit from a program sponsored by the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Colorado. They're offering the Family-to-Family Education to residents of Morgan County and other eastern counties. The Brush News Tribune reports the sessions will be Wednesdays at the East Morgan County Library in Brush for 12 weeks, starting the 11th from 6 to 8 p.m. The course will cover information about various disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar, and PTSD, along with coping skills for handling crisis and relapse; basic information about medications; listing and communication techniques; problem solving, recovery and rehabilitation and self-care around worry and stress.

Sierra Club Steps Into Drilling Battle in Greeley

The fight over whether to expand oil and gas drilling near a Greeley high school may not be over. The Sierra Club's asking state regulators to deny Synergy Resources a permit for the site near Northridge High School now that councilors have rejected an appeal by residents. Club member Lauren Swain tells the Greeley Tribune that the state's net setback rules for drilling are still inadequate. Synergy already has permission for 15 wells and plans to add three more, along with 36 more oil and water tanks. Residents worry that's too industrial for the area though the company says it wouldn't be able to drill all 18 wells at once.

A License to Hunt Drones

Colorado bow hunting season is underway, and rifle hunters are lining up for a hot new license: $25 to shoot down a government drone over the village of Deer Trail. Supporters admit the licenses would be only symbolic, and a town election authorizing them is over a month away. Still, The Denver Post reported that about 1,000 people have applied for one. Residents of the tiny town east of Denver are still split on the ideal. It's part protest against government surveillance and part promotion to get Deer Trail some attention. It's working, at least on the second point. UNCLE Sam's The federal issued a warning against shooting at drones.

State's Prison Director Resigns-No Reason Given

Colorado's going to have to find a new Director of Prisons. Mark Flowers, the man who took over the job 4-months ago, is leaving. Flowers told employees in an email today he was resigning, but there's been no explanation of why. DOC's Executive Director Rick Raemisch (RAY'-mish) recently took over the department. He replaced Tom Clements, who was murdered at his home in March. Flowers was in charge of the wardens of the state's prisons. He started May 6 and formerly worked for the Virginia Department of Corrections.

RE-1 Valley students are being prepared for the 21st century

RE-1 Valley students are being prepared for the 21st century. The Colorado Commission on Higher Education and the Colorado State Board of Education recently approved the Endorsed Diploma program, which recognizes specific achievements above and beyond what is expected to earn a high school diploma. The program does not offer different diplomas for students who achieve less than RE-1 Valley’s approved expectations, but, explained RE-1 District officials, it does recognize students who have learned specific skills they otherwise might lack, as defined by the Colorado Department of Education, to succeed in the 21st century. The school board believes the Endorsed Diploma program will ensure students are up to par to succeed in college.
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An egg vandal is terrorizing Sterling residents

An egg vandal is terrorizing Sterling residents. Police said they got a complaint of an assault, Monday, on N. Eighth Ave., from a resident who advised he'd been hit by an egg as he was walking along Platte Street. He told police he felt something hit him in the side and then heard laughing from a car as it sped past him. He gave police a description of the car, and believes he could identify it if he saw it again. Officers searched the area for over 30 minutes but didn't find the egg throwers. Later on, police got a call from a Westminster resident who said that they found a smashed egg near the driver side door of a Pontiac Fire parked along N. Seventh Ave., as well as a paint chip on the car. The vandalism occurred sometime between Sunday and Monday nights. Police are continuing to investigate the egg-vidence.
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Business is booming at Fort Morgan's brand new Hampton Inn

Business is booming at Fort Morgan's brand new Hampton Inn. The Hotel chain opened over the Labor Day weekend, and officials are hopeful it should encourage travel and business in the area. Building the new and lavish facility came when there was a need for a larger motel to meet the needs of travelers of all kinds, and officials said motel and hotel space is needed in Morgan County with all the construction crews and oil industry explorers recently, adding the city motto of People, Partnership and Progress holds true with this facility, and is just the beginning of an opportunity to build a city that is conducive to business and attracts families.
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No one showed up to speak either in favor of or against an ordinance banning commercial recreational marijuana establishments

No one showed up to speak either in favor of or against an ordinance banning commercial recreational marijuana establishments, at the Fort Morgan City Council meeting, Tuesday night. Members gave final approval to the ordinance that would prohibit retail businesses, commercial growing operations, and smoking clubs within city limits. At public forums held last spring, the majority opinion favored a ban, but there were those who wanted to allow and regulate such establishments. Officials noted, that the ordinance does not take away adults' rights under Amendment 64 to grow, possess or use small quantities of marijuana at home in Fort Morgan or to purchase it at retail establishments permitted in other parts of the state.
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It's a free for all for Marijuana in Colorado

It's a free for all for Marijuana in Colorado. Police say pot is showing up on the black market in greater quantities than ever before, and it's reaching as far away as Illinois, New York and Florida. Earlier this year, police got wind of a plane carrying 42 pounds of high-grade, vacuum-sealed marijuana that was flown into Kan. Law enforcement raided the plane immediately after it landed, and arrested four Colorado residents. Police are warning, marijuana grown in Colorado for out-of-state distribution remains illegal under state law.
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School Finance Restructuring Will be on the November Ballot

The proposed school finance restructuring known as Initiative 22 will be on the November ballot, but under the title Amendment 66. Today, Secretary of State Scott Gessler announced the initiative, which would raise $950 million in additional taxes for education, passed the threshold of valid signatures required to bring the measure before voters. Backer of the initiative have been moving ahead to promote Amendment 66, which would create a two-tiered state income tax and also change the way the state delivers funding to individual districts. The Denver Post reports the proposal would add funding for school programs including expanded full-day kindergarten and half-day preschool, while also targeting money for at-risk students and English-language learners.

No Fracking Vote in November in Loveland

Voters in Loveland probably won't be able to vote on whether to ban fracking in the city in November. City councilors narrowly voted against putting the citizens' initiative on the ballot last night because a resident has filed a lawsuit challenging the petition's signatures. The Loveland Reporter-Herald reports that five councilors didn't want to take action until Larry Sarner's appeal was resolved. But Mayor Cecil Gutierrez and three other council members voted in favor of putting the measure on the ballot now with the understanding that it could be removed if the appeal is successful. If the appeal fails, a special election could be called to vote on it.

Does the University of Colorado Have a Liberal Bias Problem?

The University of Colorado Regents will consider amending their policies to bar discrimination on the basis of political affiliation wen they meet September 16th and 17th. The Boulder Daily Camera reports the proposal stems from concern among some regents that the university has a liberal bias, especially the Boulder campus. A subcommittee of the Regents has endorsed the proposal. The nine-member board is elected and currently has a Republican majority. Allegations of liberal bias are occasionally raised against the university. In June, regents approved a survey to determine whether the system respects diversity, including in political views.

District 2 candidate withdrawing from the contest

Spending more time with her family was the reason District 2 candidate, Denise Bradshaw, offered after withdrawing from the contest at Tuesday's board of education meeting. Bradshaw announced via social media that she is dropping out of the race that has already received seven verified petitions for candidacy in the November board of education election. Bradsahw went on to endorse her District 2 competitor, William Ball, for the District 2 directorship.
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RE-1 Valley graduates are beating the odds

RE-1 Valley graduates are beating the odds. Data released by the Colorado Department of Higher Education recently, showed 2011 graduates had a higher GPA than students statewide who attend colleges and universities in Colorado, all while battling a higher poverty rate. The RE-1 Valley schools have a higher rate of free and reduced meal eligible students statewide, but that hasn't slowed their successes, with 96.2% of RE-1 students staying the course at four-year colleges and universities compared to the statewide student retention. RE-1 Valley School District Superintendent Dr. Jan DeLay said these reports show the good work that both Sterling and Caliche High School are doing. To see the complete data for districts and high schools visit highered.colorado.gov
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The last suspect charged in the August 2012 Atwood Sinclair shooting, was sentenced Thursday

The last suspect charged in the August 2012 Atwood Sinclair shooting, was sentenced Thursday. Andrew Capps pleaded guilty in May for his role in the crime, and was charged with giving a ride to co-defendents Monica Baray and Leticia Hernandez after the shooting, and lying to the police when they questioned him. Capps has spent 30 days in jail, and also underwent a two-week in-patient treatment program, and during testimony witnesses said they believe Capps is trying to turn his life around. That could have motivated the judge's ruling, who stated that because Capps played no direct role in the shooting, and appears to want to turn a new leaf, he felt a sentence of three years probation was appropriate, noting that it could be extended if Capps gets into anymore trouble.
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Relatives of those killed in the Aurora theater and Newtown shooting plan to campaign in Colorado Springs

Relatives of those killed in the Aurora theater and Newtown shooting plan to campaign in Colorado Springs, Wednesday, for Sen. John Morse, one of the two state senators being challenged for passing stricter gun laws. Colorado was the only state outside the East Coast to tighten its gun laws after last year's mass shootings.
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The NRA is standing their ground

The NRA is standing their ground. The gun proponents are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to support the recall campaign of two Colorado Democratic lawmakers who voted for new gun restrictions this year. A campaign finance report released yesterday shows the organization's total contribution toward the ousters so far is about $361,700. Senate President John Morse of Colorado Springs and Pueblo Sen. Angela Giron (Hiron) are facing recalls next Tuesday.
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One year of probation and 60 days of house arrest was the plea bargain one of two former Boulder police officers copped

One year of probation and 60 days of house arrest was the plea bargain one of two former Boulder police officers copped. The two are accused in the illegal killing of a trophy elk on New Year's Day. Brent Curnow accepted the deal yesterday afternoon. Fellow officer Sam Carter has pleaded not guilty.
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A judge has ordered Colorado to pay $1.2 million to a man who served 17 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit

A judge has ordered Colorado to pay $1.2 million to a man who served 17 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Robert Dewey will receive $100,000 a year, after new evidence showed he was wrongfully convicted in the 1996 murder and rape of a western Colorado woman, for which he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. He was freed in April 2012, and had been living in poverty, but a bill was recently passed that compensates people who have been falsely imprisoned.
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Improperly prescribing drugs landed one Craig doctor behind bars

Improperly prescribing drugs landed one Craig doctor behind bars. Joel Miller is accused of dispensing medication that led to the deaths of two patients. He appeared in federal court in Grand Junction, yesterday, where a judge denied his request to get out on bond. The U.S. Magistrate said that Miller is a flight risk, and will remain in jail.
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Labor Day fun turned fatal

Labor Day fun turned fatal. The Morgan County Sheriff's Office says two teens were rushed to Colorado Plains Medical Center after swimming at a private pond northeast of the Fort Morgan City limits Monday afternoon. 16-year old Andres Rodriguez was pronounced dead about an hour later. Seventeen-year old Ramiro Bayardo of Fort Morgan, was listed in stable condition. Police are continuing to investigate.
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Holmes Lawyers Challenge Colorado Death Penalty

Lawyers for Colorado theater shooting suspect James Holmes have filed six new constitutional challenges to the death penalty, saying execution is cruel and unusual punishment. Holmes is accused of shooting and killing 12 people and injuring 70 others in a suburban Denver movie theater in July 2012. He pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to charges of murder and attempted murder. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. His trial is scheduled to start in February. His lawyers filed two other challenges to Colorado death penalty laws last month, saying they don't set clear standards and make it too hard for jurors to weigh mitigating factors.

Greeley City Council Considers Drive to Block Expansion of Oil-Gas Drilling Near High School

Some Greeley residents are trying to stop the expansion of oil and gas drilling near a high school, worried It could turn the site into an industrial area. City councilors are scheduled to consider the appeal of Synergy Resources' permit tonight evening. The company's had permission to drill 15 wells near Northridge High School since 2008. In July, the city's planning commission gave the green light for three more wells along with 36 more oil and water tanks. One resident tells the Greeley Tribune opponents only want to stop the expansion, not the existing drilling. Synergy says it wouldn't be able to drill on all 18 wells at once because Greeley doesn't have the infrastructure so not all the additional oil and water tanks will be needed.

Sterling police were busy just before Labor Day weekend with several reports of home robberies

Sterling police were busy just before Labor Day weekend with several reports of home robberies. Police responded to a reported theft at a home on Elwood St., possibly committed early Thursday morning (Aug. 29). Thieves ran off with about $200 in motor bikes. Then a short time later, officers got a call about a robbery at a Haxtun residence, where the theif got away with some lawn equipment worth about $134, from the home on Beattie St.. And another theft of a hose cart, three sprinklers and three hand-held sprayers, valued at $260, happened on Elwood St.
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An alleged Sterling drug dealer will remain behind bars

An alleged Sterling drug dealer will remain behind bars. Francisco Herrera was denied a request for a bond reduction at a hearing Thursday in Logan County District Court. He is being held at the Logan County Jail on a $1,250,000 bond after an arrest on July 29 for selling methamphetamines. It was his third arrest since being granted probation in April on a 2012 drug distribution case. When he was arrested, Herrera was out on bond in an earlier case and wearing a court-ordered ankle monitoring system. The judge said he must consider that the defendant is considered innocent until proven guilty, but noted that Herrera repeatedly committed serious crimes that threaten the community while out on bond, and has posted hundreds of thousands of dollars in bond over the past few years, indicating that the high amount of bond in this case was warranted.
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Mount Evans Highway is closed

Even though the weather still says it's summer, the top portion of the Mount Evans Highway is closed for the winter. The five-mile segment Colorado Highway 5 closed Tuesday morning. The state transportation department must close that stretch of the road the day after Labor Day under an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service. Other key seasonal roads in Colorado, including Trail Ridge Road and Independence Pass, remain open. Near record heat is expected along the Front Range while scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected again in the mountains of western Colorado on Tuesday.
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Local Veteran's are lending a helping hand

Local Veteran's are lending a helping hand. Military Vet's in SouthWest Fort Morgan gather at the American Legion Post No. 19 on the second Thursday of the month for the group's regular meeting, and their first order of business is how they can help vets and their families, and the community. The historical local Legion post, created in 1919, functions as a service club in many regards, raising money through the group's twice-weekly bingo nights for local schools, scholarships, Legion Baseball athletics, the high school's after-prom party, and placing flags on veteran's gravesites in the cemetery on holidays. The group also donates money to the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, and they clean up a section along Interstate 76. The Legion also helps support veterans and their families when needed. In the past, that has included helping pay rent, buying food or getting a tank of gas.
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I'll need to see your proof of insurance

I'll need to see your proof of insurance. That's what motorists who wan to register their vehicles will soon hear in Morgan County. Officials are notifying citizens that effective immediately the State of Colorado Department of Revenue is requiring proof of insurance on each specific motorized vehicle being registered including temporary permits. It will be necessary to bring in your proof of insurance card with the vehicle identification number listed on your insurance card before a plate or temporary permit can be issued. If you have questions, contact the registration office.
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Gov. John Hickenlooper will be out of the office for a few days this week

Gov. John Hickenlooper will be out of the office for a few days this week recovering from hip surgery. A spokesman says Hickenlooper is undergoing hip arthroscopy Tuesday. It's usually a short, minimally-invasive procedure in which a small camera and instruments are used to see and repair the hip joint.
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