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News Headlines For Friday, May 17, 2013

BV Boy Hurt In Accident

     An accident injured a young child Wednesday afternoon on South Railroad Street in Buena Vista.

     A woman who identified herself as Christina Adamek said she was riding her scooter home from work when the boy “darted out in front” of her, and she was unable to avoid hitting him.

Deputy Arrested

     A Fremont County Sheriff’s Office Detention Deputy has been arrested by Pueblo Police.

     30-year-old Joseph Bonfadini was arrested Wednesday on a sexual assault warrant.

     He is being held in the Pueblo County Detention Center on a no-bond hold.

     No additional information was available.

Bessey Trial Continues

     After six hours of court testimony yesterday, the preliminary hearing of double homicide suspect Daniel Bessey will resume today.

     The former Saguache resident is accused of murdering a Monte Vista couple in 2012.

A Busy Weekend In The Area

     The 22nd Annual Arkansas River Clean-up from Leadville to Canon City is tomorrow. 

     Sign up at 8:30 am at the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area office in Salida or at the Buena Vista Community Center.

     A volunteer picnic is from noon to 3 pm at Riverside Park.

Cruiser Crit

     The 11th Annual FIBArk Cruiser Crit is tomorrow afternoon in downtown Salida.

     Participants are encouraged to wear their best costume.

     Registration is at 3 pm at Riverside Park with the race starting at 4 pm. 

     An after party with silent auction is at River’s Edge.

It’s A Ringer

     Valley to Valley Senior Care Center is sponsoring a horseshoe tournament at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds tomorrow.

     Professionals begin at 9:30 am—amateur tournament begins at 2 pm.

     Call 970-389-3463 for more information.

BV Cleanup

     The Buena Vista Clean-up Weekend kicks off today and continues on tomorrow.

     Furniture, non-toxic trash, metals and electronics will be accepted at the Public Works Department at 755 Gregg Drive.

Hwy 50 Yard Sale

     The Highway 50 Coast to Coast Yard Sale takes place tomorrow from 8 am to 12 noon.

     Vendors and a free lunch will be at Chipeta Park in Poncha Springs and the Maysville school will conduct a rummage sale.

Madam

     The Buena Vista Heritage Museum will hold their annual membership meeting tomorrow night at 6 pm.

     The meeting will be followed by a catered happy hour a silent auction, and the “Madams of Central Colorado” show.

     Contact the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce for more information.

In Sports—

     Daniel Carr of Buena Vista placed third in the discus at the state track meet yesterday with a throw of 144’11”, picking up 7 points for the Demons.    

     The Salida Spartan girl’s 4X800 relay team placed 4th to add 6 points for the Spartans.  Sydney Fesenmeyer, Olivia Lowe, Allison Lofton and Lauren McDonald ran the relay in 9 minutes, 58 seconds—breaking a school record.

News Headlines For Thursday, May 16, 2013

BV Man Takes Aim At Golfers

     Chaffee County sheriff’s deputies and Buena Vista police arrested 40-year-old Kevan Evans of Buena Vista Monday on charges of prohibited use of a weapon while intoxicated, possession of a weapon by a previous offender, felony menacing and resisting arrest.

     Officers responded to a report of an armed man threatening people at Collegiate Peaks Golf Course.  Evans was said to be aiming a professional grade compressed air rifle at people on the course.

     Evans is being held in the Chaffee County Detention Center in lieu of $10,000 bail.

Bye Bob

     Executive Director Robert Hartzell is retiring from the National Hall of Fame and Museum in Leadville.

     Hartzell has served the museum since 2008.

     According to a press release from the board of directors, Hartzell’s last day on the job will be May 31.

Clean Up BV

     The Buena Vista Clean-up Weekend kicks off tomorrow and continues on Saturday.

     Furniture, non-toxic trash, metals and electronics will be accepted at the Public Works Department at 755 Gregg Drive.

Help With RTR

     The Salida Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers to help when Ride the Rockies comes through town June 13 and 14.

     Those interested in helping should call the chamber at 539-2680.

HRRMC Scholarships

     The HRRMC Auxiliary has awarded two scholarships to graduating seniors going into the health field.

     Kayla Boria of Buena Vista was given a 4-year scholarship.

     A 2-year scholarship was awarded to Jennifer Wentz of Salida.

Crest Film Fest

     Crest Academy is hosting a film festival premiering its new documentary, “In the Main Street”, a film linking the Arkansas River to the community.  Showtime is 6 pm tonight at the SteamPlant.

     Tomorrow, Crest Academy is staging an event to draw attention to the problem that plastic bags cause to the environment.

     The “Bag It” event starts at 11 am at the base of S Mountain.

Bike To Work

     Tomorrow is National Ride Your Bike to Work day.

     Salida will feature a historic bike tour leaving the SteamPlant at 8:30 am.

     Buena Vista will have an afternoon bike rodeo at McPhelemy Park from 3:30 to 5:30 pm.

In Sports—

     The Salida Lady Spartan golfers finished fifth out of 15 teams yesterday at the Pueblo County Golf Tournament.

     Senior Brianna Rose shot a 94 to place sixth individually.

     The Salida Women’s Softball League will host an organizational meeting tonight at the softball field begging at 7 pm.

     Anyone interested in playing is invited to attend.

News Headlines For Tuesday, May 14, 2013

A Lot Of Meetings

     Fremont County Commissioners will consider the request for a Temporary Use Permit to allow a farmer’s market this summer in Cotopaxi when they meet at the County Administration Building.

     The farmer’s market would take place at the Cotopaxi Community Church on Fridays

     Chaffee County Commissioners will consider a request for the City of Salida for a financial contribution of $10,000 for the Natural Resource Center procurement effort when they meet at the Chaffee County Courthouse.

     The Chaffee County Draft Land Use Open House is in Buena Vista at the Community Center starting at 5 pm.

     The Salida School Board Open House for those interested in running for a seat on the board begins at 5:15 pm at the Kesner Building.  A regular school board meeting will follow at 6 pm.

     The Salida Planning will have a work session tonight beginning at 6 pm in the Touber Building.

Riverside Park Closed

     The City of Salida has closed Riverside Park from the bandshell west for tree removal.

     The city hopes to have the park re-open by Memorial Day weekend.

Adams Ups Tuition

     The Adams State University passed a 16-percent tuition hike for in-state students.

     Beginning this fall, full time students will pay $2,436 per semester, a $528 increase.

In Sports—

     The Salida community track meets are back—the City of Salida Recreation Department will host 3 track meets at the new Salida High School track.

     Meets are on Monday nights, May 20, June 24 and July 22.

     For more information, contact Kristy at the Salida Rec Department.

News Headlines For Friday, May 10, 2013

Blame The Snow

     Heavy spring snow is being blamed for a power outage that affected about 2,000 Sangre de Cristo Electric customers in three counties yesterday.

     The 2,000 customers affected were in the Chalk Creek area, northern Chaffee County, Lake County and eastern Fremont County.

     The company restored power for most by 11 am.

Snowpack Improves

     Statewide snowpack climbed to 83 percent of average as of May 1, up from 74 percent on April 1.

     U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service reports the Arkansas River Basin increased to 93 percent of average, or almost 300 percent better than last year at this time.

Arrest Made In Crime Spree

     Salida Police have arrested two 17-year-old Chaffee County juveniles in connection with recent cases of criminal mischief, trespass and stolen vehicles.

     The arrests are linked to 17 crimes.

     Both were released to their parents.

Consumer Report

     Beware of people going door to door offering to do roof repair.

     Never give upfront money and don’t sign anything without talking to your insurance agent or a person of trust.

Got Potholes

     Salida Public Works is taking comments from residents regarding potholes on city streets that need to be filled.

     Once the weather shows consistent sunny days, Public Works will start repair work.

     Contact Public Works by calling 539-6257.

BAH

     The Salida Chamber of Commerce “Business After Hours” is tonight at the Salida Golf Club from 5 to 7 pm.

     Food, Drink and networking for only $7.

Stamp Out Hunger

     The U.S. Postal Service is asking you to help “Stamp Out Hunger” tomorrow.

     Letter carriers across the country will be collecting food for families in need.

     Just bag up non-perishable food items and place by your mail box.

Spring Is Springing

     Chaffee County Montessori School and Two’s Early Learning invite you to the 5th annual Spring Plant Sale tomorrow from 9 am to 1 pm.

     This event is held alongside Touch-a-Truck at Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center.

Take Mom To Breakfast

     Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast Fund Raiser is Sunday from 8 am to 1 pm at St. Joseph’s Great Hall.

     Adults $5, Children 12 and under $3.

In Sports—

     The Buena Vista Demon baseball team begins post season play tomorrow when they host Middle Park at 12:30 pm.

News Headlines For Thursday, May 9, 2013

Storage Units Broken Into

     Chaffee County Crime Stoppers is offering cash rewards for information about thefts from storage units Sunday in Salida and Poncha Springs.

     Anyone with information about the break-ins should call 539-5299.

     Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards of up to $1,000.  Callers can remain anonymous.

Twin Lakes Fire Protection

     Improving fire protection for the southern portion of Lake County remains a major concern for residents of Twin Lakes and the surrounding areas.

     The Board of Lake County Commissioners held its regular meeting at the Twin Lakes Fire Station this week.  During the meeting, the Friends of Twin Lakes brought several concerns to the commissioners.

BV Improvements

     Buena Vista needs to improve its signage, collaborate more on marketing and beautify portions of downtown.

     Those were just three of many recommendations made by experts from Downtown Colorado, Inc. during a meeting this week at the State Highway Theatre.

Rush In Hall

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center Foundation announced yesterday that Bob Rush has been named to the HRRMC Hall of Fame.

     After all, the hospital is located on Rush Drive, which is named in his honor.

     Rush will be formally inducted into the Hall at the Jewel Ball on September 21.

Cottonwood On Schedule

     Cottonwood Pass is expected to be open by Memorial Day.

     The gate at the Denny Creek trailhead will remain locked until both the Gunnison County and Chaffee County sides of the pass are clear.    

In Sports—

     Nugget’s coach George Karl was named NBA coach of the year yesterday.  Karl’s Nuggets won a record 57 games during the regular season but lost to the Warriors in the first round of the playoffs.

News Headlines For Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Term Limits Stay

     Voters in the special Salida Hospital District election yesterday voted overwhelmingly to keep term limits for those serving on the board of directors.

     191 voted to eliminate term limits compared to 379 who voted to keep term limits. 

Emergency Training In BV

     The Buena Vista Correctional Center is conducting Emergency Response Training this afternoon.

     The public will notice activity at the correctional facility and around town. 

High Speeds In Canyon

     A high speed chase through Big Horn Sheep Canyon yesterday resulted in the arrest of 30-year-old Eric Gallegos of Saguache.

     Chaffee County Undersheriff John Spezze said Gallegos reached speeds of up to 95 mph from Salida to Cotopaxi.

     Gallegos was charged with driving under revocation, vehicular eluding, reckless driving and reckless endangerment and is being held in the Chaffee County jail on a $50,000 bond.

Salida Crime

     The Salida Police Department has handled a rash of criminal cases over the last five days.

     Since May 3rd, Salida police have fielded 9 criminal mischief cases, 7 first degree criminal trespass cases and 2 stolen vehicles.

     Anyone with information is asked to call the authorities.

Commissioners Restrict Traffic

     Chaffee County Commissioners restricted truck and commercial vehicle use from using County Road 105 during their regular meeting yesterday.

     Commissioners also approved a request from Chaffee County Economic Development for support and $10,000 to purchase property at the intersection of U.S. 24 and Main Street in Buena Vista.

Vandaveer Leased

     The Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corporation board voted to lease pasture at Vandaveer Ranch this summer to Jon White.

     In other business, the board also heard an update on the U.S. Forest Service project and held an executive session to discuss financing options.

Cottonwood On Schedule

     Cottonwood Pass is expected to be open by Memorial Day.

     The gate at the Denny Creek trailhead will remain locked until both the Gunnison County and Chaffee County sides of the pass are clear.    

In Sports—

     Salida senior Brianna Rose qualified for state, with a score of 95, at regional competition yesterday at Hollydot Golf Course in Colorado City.

     State competition is May 20 and 21 in Englewood.

     Carlos Gonzalez hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning to lead the Rockies to a 2-0 victory over the Yankees last night.

News Headlines For Monday, May 6, 2013

Westville Man Found Safe

     A man who was reported missing Friday was located safe and unharmed Saturday morning.

     69-year-old George Wetzler of the Westcliffe area, was found sitting on a park bench on Main Street just before noon Saturday.

     Police say Wetzler suffers from severe dementia.

Captain Zipline To Expand

     The Fremont County Planning Commission will consider a major modification to a Zip-line operation in western Fremont County at it May 7th monthly meeting.

     Gene Holmes, who operates Captain Zipline in the Wellsville area, has made an application for a Special Use Permit to expand his operation.

     Holmes wants to add two new challenge courses with rock climbing, swinging bridges, ladders, obstacles and catwalks.  Six additional zip-lines are also proposed.

     The commission will meet at 4 pm, tomorrow, at the Fremont County Administration Building.

BV Downtown Revitalization

     The Town of Buena Vista is hosting workshops this afternoon concerning the BV Downtown Revitalization effort.

     The 6 pm meeting at Buena Vista Heritage focuses on Main Street business and property owners.  The 7 pm meeting, also at Buena Vista Heritage, is open to all residents, even the ones that live outside of town.

     A public reception and presentation of all topics covered will be held at the State Highway Theater tomorrow night at 6 pm.

Chaffee Commissioners To Meet

     Chaffee County Commissioners will consider a resolution imposing restrictions on truck traffic on County Road 105 during their meeting at 9 am tomorrow morning at the courthouse.

     Commissioners will also consider the 2013 Annual Wildfire Operating Plan and a request from Chaffee County Economic Development Corporation for funds from the Conservation Trust Fund to purchase property at the junction of U.S. 24 and Main Street in Buena Vista.

Cancer Climb

     The Tenderfoot Cancer Climb at Riverside Park in downtown Salida on Saturday raised just over $20,000.

     More than 200 participated with Hugs for Lisa, a 16 member team, raising the most money, bringing in just over $2,400.

Congrats Bill

     Bill Dvorak of Nathrop received the Trout Unlimited Exemplary Guide and Outfitter award during the Collegiate Peak Anglers’ 28th annual Caddis Festival Banquet Saturday.

     The award by the Trout Unlimited state council recognized individuals or businesses who exemplify conservation and protection of Colorado’s trout fisheries and resources.

Let’s Go Fishin’

     Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced that the North Boat Ramp at Antero Reservoir will open today.

     The south ramp will remain closed until inspectors can be hired and trained to staff the ramp.

In Sports—

     The Spartan baseball team ended their season by defeated the Ellicot Thunderhawks twice on Saturday.

     Salida won the first game 14-3 and the second 6-3.

News Headlines For Friday, May 3, 2013

No Word From DA

     5th Judicial District Attorney Bruce Brown told the Herald Democrat this week that he had nothing new to report concerning his investigation that centers around the Lake County Building Department.

     When asked if he had an idea when his investigation might conclude, Brown said, “Hopefully in a matter of weeks, not months.”

     The matter has been under some form of investigation since early February.

Captain Zipline To Expand

     The Fremont County Planning Commission will consider a major modification to a Zip-line operation in western Fremont County at it May 7th monthly meeting.

     Gene Holmes, who operates Captain Zipline in the Wellsville area, has made an application for a Special Use Permit to expand his operation.

     Holmes wants to add two new challenge courses with rock climbing, swinging bridges, ladders, obstacles and catwalks.  Six additional zip-lines are also proposed.

     The commission will meet at 4 pm, Tuesday, May 7th, at the Fremont County Administration Building.

Paving Gregg Drive

     Paving Gregg Drive in Buena Vista will cost more and take longer than originally anticipated.

     A water line must be extended a half mile down the middle of Gregg Drive before roadwork begins, an undertaking that will incur additional expenses and delay paving.

Cancer Climb Tomorrow

     The Tenderfoot Cancer Climb takes place tomorrow at Riverside Park in downtown Salida.

     Registration begins at 8 am, the climb starts at 9 am and donations will be accepted on site.

     Heart of the Rockies radio will be doing a live broadcast during the event.

In Sports—

     The Ark Valley High Rollers will play their first home bout of the season against the Durango Roller Girls tomorrow night at 7 pm at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds.

     Doors open at 6 pm, tickets are $10.

     The Warriors beat the Nuggets last night 92-88, knocking Denver out of the first-round Western Conference playoffs.

News Headlines For Thursday, May 2, 2013

First Day Of Civil Unions

     Chaffee County issued its first civil union licenses yesterday.

     After being together 13 years, Steve Rust and Michael Ingram legalized their commitment with a civil union license at the Chaffee County Courthouse yesterday-the first day such unions were legal in Colorado.

     County Clerk Joyce Reno said Ingram and Rust received one of two civil union licenses issued.

     Ingram told the Mountain Mail that having a civil union will make many thing easier, like health insurance benefits, hospital visitation and other legal matters.

Wingert Resigns

     Chaffee County Fire Protection District Chief Jim Wingert has given his letter of resignation, the board of directors confirmed yesterday.

     The naming of an interim chief will come at the next Chaffee County Fire Protection District board of directors meeting May 17.

     Assistant Fire Chief Robert Thorp will handle operational duties until that time.

Fremont Fugitive

     Fremont County Sheriff’s office is asking for the publics help in locating 36-year-old Matthew Lee Boyd.

     Boyd is wanted on felony warrants for escape and dangerous drugs.

     He is described as 6 feet tall, 185 pounds, with brown hair, blue eyes and multiple tattoos.

     Officials said to use extreme caution with Boyd, because he as assaulted officers in the past.

Xcel Don’t Know

     219 Xcel Energy customers in Salida lost power for about 20 minutes this past Tuesday.

      An Xcel spokesman said, they don’t know why, but a fuse went out and it was quickly turned back on.

Climax Gives

     Climax Mine, through their Community Investment Fund, has donated almost $600,000 to local non-profits.

     In all, 16 area nonprofit organizations from Lake, Summit, Chaffee and Eagle counties, were awarded a total of $591,600.

Moore On Water

     Salida City Councilman Jay Moore has been sworn in as a director on the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy board.

     Moore replaces Reed Dils as the Chaffee County representative.

Leadville Zoning

     The Leadville Planning and Zoning Commission is looking at the possibility of designating downtown Leadville as an entertainment district.

     Under Colorado law, a municipality can designate an area within a town an entertainment district area.  Within that district, the municipality can designate common consumption areas, or places where people can bring alcoholic beverages they’ve purchased from bars and restaurants into the district.

In Sports—

     Because of inclement weather, the Salida Lady Spartans’ tennis regional in Pueblo were postponed until tomorrow.

News Headlines For Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Fire Danger High

     A Red Flag Fire Warning is in effect till 8 pm tonight for our entire listening area.

     A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are expected.

     A combination of gusty winds, up to 45 mph,  low relative humidity and warm temperatures will be capable of creating explosive fire growth potential.

Hunt Closed

     City of Salida Public Works will have Hunt Street from Nichols to Illinois closed until tomorrow afternoon at 4 pm.

     Residents living in the work area will be able to access their homes.

     The crew will be installing a new fire hydrant.

Chaffee Officials Meet

     Officials from the municipalities of Salida, Buena Vista and Poncha Spings, along with representatives from Chaffee County, will meet in an intergovernmental work session tonight at 6 pm in the Buena Vista Community Center.

     At the meeting, officials will discuss the drought management plan, the Chaffee County Fire Authority and unmanned aircraft systems, or drone testing.

Iowa Man Sentenced

     60-year-old William Shaffer of Iowa received a 60-day jail sentence last week after pleading guilty to careless driving resulting in death.

     Originally charged with vehicular homicide, The Mountain Mail is reporting that Shaffer entered into a plea agreement.

     As part of the agreement, Shaffer will serve 3 years probation, perform 500 hours of community service and cannot drive for the next year.

     Shafer was west bound on Hwy 50 when he attempted to pass another vehicle, his SUV collided head on with a vehicle driven by Heather Dunn of Cotopaxi, resulting in Dunn’s death August 16.

Bag It

     Crest Academy students are asking for the community’s help in wrapping S Mountain with 12,000 plastic bags to set a Guinness World Record.

     The “Bag It” event is Friday, May 17at the F Street Bridge.

     The school hopes to bring awareness to the effects of plastic pags on the environment.

Boys And Girls Hand Out Honors

     The Boys and Girls Clubs of Chaffee County has recognized Kurt and Stephanie Glaser, along with their kids Kasey and Eddie, as their Family of the Year.

     Youth of the Year is Salida High School senior Michaela Medrano.

     Madyson Monroe is Kid of the Year.

In Sports—

     The Buena Vista Baseball Association skills assessment for players in Minors and Majors will be held today at the high school baseball field beginning at 3:30 pm.

     It’s do or die for the Nuggets.  Denver trails Golden State in their best of seven playoff series 3-1 and must win tonight or their season is over.  The Nuggets host the Warriors--tip-off at 6 pm.

News Headlines For Thursday, April 25, 2013

Insurance Plans Offered

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center and Chaffee People’s Clinic are co-sponsoring a presentation by Connect for Health Colorado tonight at 7 pm in the HRRMC’s second floor conference room.

     Connect for Health Colorado is a one-stop marketplace where Coloradans can shop and compare health insurance plans.

     More information can be found at www.getcoveredco.org.

Cheer On The Crushers

     The Harlem Ambassadors professional basketball team will tip off against the “Crime Stopper Crushers” tonight at 6:30 pm at the Salida High School gym.

     The game is a fundraiser for Chaffee County Crimestoppers.

     Tickets are available at the Salida Chamber of Commerce and in Buena Vista at High Country Bank till 5 pm today.

Red Cross Wants You

     The American Red Cross in Chaffee County is preparing for the coming wildfire season and you can help by becoming a Red Cross Volunteer.

     An orientation meeting will be held in Salida on May 7 and in Buena Vista on May 9.  Each two-hour session begins at 7 pm.

     For more information, call 395-2982.

Be Bear Aware

     Black bears have emerged from their winter dens and it’s time for Colorado residents to take precautions to help keep bears wild.

     The biggest issue in conflict situations is the availability of human sources of food—garbage, pet food, bird feeders and the like.

     If you would like a wildlife officer to come to your neighborhood or homeowner’s association to talk about bear issues, contact your local Parks and Wildlife office.

Way To Go ED

     Congratulations to Ed Loeffel!

     Ed has been named Commodore for FIBArk 2013.

     Loeffel has been a FIBArk volunteer since 1981 when he participated in his first down river race.

In Sports—

     Final registration for the Salida summer Babe Ruth and Cal Ripkin baseball programs, for ages 4-18, will continue through next Tuesday, April 30.

     Registration forms are available at the Salida Regional Library and Hot Springs Pool.

News Headlines For

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Salida Man Arraigned

     33-year-old Michael D. Gross of Salida was arraigned yesterday in 11th Judicial District Court.

     Gross was charged with theft of up to $20,000, a class 4 felony.

     The charges are related to his employment at High County Bank in Salida.

     Gross applied for and was granted a public defender.

     The case was held over until May 14 for a status hearing.

Dominguez In Court

     Also in District Court yesterday, 29-year-old Christopher Dominguez of Salida appeared to face four charges in connection with a vehicle roll over April 6 on Poncha Boulevard that knocked out power to much of Salida.

     Dominguez faces charges of vehicle eluding, vehicle assault, failure to remain at the scene of an accident with injuries and reckless driving.

     Dominguez applied for and was granted a public defender. 

     His next court date is May 14 for a status hearing.

County Talks Land Use

     Chaffee County Commissioners and the Chaffee County Planning Commission will hold a joint work session to give an overview of the proposed land-use code beginning at 6 pm tonight in the commissioner’s meeting room in the court house.

     The public is invited to the work session, however, the commissioners will not take public comment.

     Public comment will be taken at future public hearings.

Plastic Surgeon Comes To Town

     A board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Debra Irizarry, has joined the staff at Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center.

     HRRMC is now the only hospital in the Upper Arkansas and San Luis Valleys that offers plastic surgery.

Insurance Plans Offered

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center and Chaffee People’s Clinic are co-sponsoring a presentation by Connect for Health Colorado tomorrow night at 7 pm in the HRRMC’s second floor conference room.

     Connect for Health Colorado is a one-stop marketplace where Coloradans can shop and compare health insurance plans.

     More information can be found at www.getcoveredco.org.

National Parks Week

     The National Park Service will celebrate National Parks Week through Sunday.

     Entrance fees will be waived, allowing visitors to explore National Park facilities.

In Sports—

     Salida girl’s soccer will play today, a game that was postponed from yesterday.  The JV starts at 3 pm, the Varsity at 5 pm.  It’s Senior night for the girls as the take on Manitou Springs.

     The Warriors beat the Nuggets last night 131-117 to tie their first-round playoff series 1 game apiece.

News Headlines For Tuesday, April 23, 2013

HRRMC Buys Clinic

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center has purchased The Medical Clinics building on Hwy 50 in Salida.

     The Clinic will be renamed HRRMC Medical Clinics but patients will see little change in daily operations.  All of the current medical providers and services in the building will remain.

     The hospital purchased the 15,000 square foot building for $2.9 million.

Preregister Today

     This Saturday is the 9Health Fair in Salida and you can preregister today.

     Preregister at the Masonic Lodge at Third and G street in Salida till 7 pm tonight.

Drug Take Back Day

     Chaffee and Fremont County’s law enforcement agencies will participate in the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Program this Saturday.

     Drop off locations in Fremont County include the Canon City Police Department, the Florence Fire Department and the Fremont County Sheriff’s office.

     In Chaffee County, unused or expired prescription drugs can be dropped off at Buena Vista Pharmacy on Hwy 24 and the Salida Middle School.

     Collection points will be open from 10 am to 2 pm.

Volunteer For PaddleFest

     Organizers of PaddleFest 2013, “Kick off to Summer,” are hosting a volunteer drive from 4 to 8 pm tonight at Elevation Beer Company in Poncha Springs.

     PaddleFest 2013 and the owners of Colorado Kayak Supply in Buena Vista have partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Chaffee County to host the whitewater festival, making the Boys and Girls Clubs financial beneficiaries of the event.

     PaddleFest 2013 is Memorial Day weekend, May 24-26.

In Sports—

     Salida Freshman and Sophomore track meet in Gunnison has been cancelled. 

     The Spartan Girls soccer game scheduled for today has been postponed until tomorrow.

     The Salida tennis match has been postponed until Monday.

     Game 2 of the best-of-seven playoff series between the Nuggets and Warriors is tonight in Denver.  Denver won the first game 97-95.

News Headlines For Monday, April 22, 2013

Avalanche Kills Five

     The five men killed Saturday in Colorado’s deadliest avalanche in 50 years were participants in a backcountry snowboarder event called the Rocky Mountain High Backcounty Bash.

     They were representatives and founders of snow-sport companies, guides, avalanche experts and veteran backcountry travelers raising money for the Colorado Avalanche Information Center.

     Among the dead was 36-year-old Ian Lamphere of Crested Butte.

     The avalanche took place in the Sheep Creek drainage just northeast of the Loveland Pass summit.

Spring Is On Its Way?

     A cold front will move across Colorado today and tonight, producing the latest round of late-season snow.

     Up to a foot of new snow could fall in the higher elevations.

Habitat Breaks Ground

     Chaffee County Habitat for Humanity received a funding grant of $75,000 Saturday from Climax Mine for construction and seed money for the financing program.

     The announcement was made at the groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new Habitat build at 500 Crestone Avenue in Salida.

     The latest project will be home for Vernon Mace, a retired Army veteran, and Sarah Green and her two sons.

     Construction of the new duplex is expected to be finished in September.

Canon City Girl Missing

     A 17-year-old Canon City girl was reported missing Friday night by family members who filed a runaway/missing person report with authorities.

     Miranda Baca is described a 5 foot 2 inches tall, weighs 100 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes.  She has a tattoo that says “Sister” on her front left shoulder, one that says “family First” with a cross on her back shoulder, and a tribal design on her left foot.

     Canon City police are actively searching for Baca.  Anyone who might have information is asked to call authorities.

In Sports—

     The Salida Lady Spartans golf team won first place Friday at the Monte Vista Tournament.

     Senior Brianna Rose shot a 98, earning her fourth place individually.

     The team is in Canon City today for a tournament.

     28-year-old Evan Ross of Crested Butte won the Salida Pole, Pedal, Paddle Race yesterday.

     25-yearold Eliska Hajkova of Boulder won the women’s division.

     The Nuggets took game one in their NBA playoff series with Golden State 97-95 over the weekend.

     Game 2 in the best-of-seven series is tomorrow at the Pepsi Center.

     The Diamondbacks beat the Rockies 5-4 yesterday ending the Rockies eight-game winning streak.

News Headlines For Friday, April 19, 2013

Lake County Investigation Continues

     Lake County District Attorney Bruce Brown has not reached the point of determining what charges, if any, will be filed in his investigation relating to the Lake County Building Department, he did confirm to the Herald Democrat that the investigation does involve criminal violations related to drugs, and more than one individual is being investigated.

     Brown said that he is making good progress in the case but doesn’t anticipate any results for a few more weeks.

Beck New CEO

     Joyce Beck has been named the new CEO of St. Vincent Hospital in Leadville.

     The hospital board voted to offer Beck the position at a special meeting earlier this week.

Groundbreaking

     Chaffee County Habitat for Humanity will break ground on their latest project tomorrow.

     A duplex located at 500 Crestone Avenue will become the new home of two families.

     Ground breaking is at 2 pm with Heart of the Rockies radio doing a live remote broadcast at 1 pm.

Food Distribution

     There will be a commodities food distribution at the Buena Vista Community Center on Friday from noon to 1 pm.

     You must have a current card to receive commodities.  Cards will be issued on site.  Proof of income and a picture ID is required.

Earth Day

     Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association and Salida Recreation are hosting an “Earth Day Party” tomorrow from 10 am to 5 pm at Riverside Park in downtown Salida.

     Exhibits, arts and crafts and educational displays will be featured along with a parade through downtown Salida at 3 pm.

In Sports—

     Spartan baseball travels to Manitou Springs tomorrow.

     Buena Vista travels to Platte Canyon for a 4 pm game.

     Buena Vista will host The Classical Academy tomorrow.

     Custer County is in Del Norte today and host South Park tomorrow.

     Cotopaxi is at Primero this afternoon.

     The eight running of the Salida Pole, Pedal, Paddle will run this Sunday.

     Competitors start on Monarch Pass with a 6 mile backcountry ski leg, bike 20 miles then kayak down the Arkansas River into downtown Salida.

     The race benefits the Arkansas River Trust.

     The NFL released the 2013 schedules yesterday and the Broncos will begin the same way they finished 2012—with a game against the Baltimore Ravens.

     The Broncos and Ravens will be the first NFL game of the season when the two teams meet Sept. 5 at Mile High.

News Headlines For Thursday, April 18, 2013

Interim Corrections Director Named

     Governor John Hickenlooper has named Roger Werholtz as interim executive director of the Colorado Department of Corrections.

     Werholtz will fill that position until the end of June as a search for a permanent director begins.

     Werholtz most recently served 8 years as secretary of corrections in Kansas.      

Prescribed Burn Planned

     The U.S. Forest Service is planning a prescribed burn near O’Haver Lake adjacent to County Road 200 between now and the first of May.

     The project involves burning up to 260 acres to reduce the accumulation of hazardous fuels.

     Once the burn begins, smoke will be visible throughout the Arkansas River Valley and the northern portion of San Luis Valley.

Food Distribution

     There will be a commodities food distribution at the Buena Vista Community Center on Friday from noon to 1 pm.

     You must have a current card to receive commodities.  Cards will be issued on site.  Proof of income and a picture ID is required.

They Grow Up So Fast

     Kindergarten registration will take place today from 4 to 7 pm at Avery Parsons Elementary in Buena Vista.

     A certified birth certificate and immunization records are required.

In Sports—

     The Spartan baseball team host South Park today for a double-header.  First pitch is at 3 pm.

     Buena Vista travels to Platte Canyon for a 4 pm game.

     The Saldia Lady Spartans took third place yesterday at the Tri-Peaks League Tournament in Colorado City.

News Headlines For Wednesday,

April 17, 2013

     A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until midnight.

     Moderate to heavy snow is expected.  Up to seven inches could fall in the lower elevations, up to a foot possible in the high country.

     Travel will become hazardous due to poor visibilities and icy, snow covered roads.

We Need More Power Scotty

     2,000 Xcel Energy customers in the Salida area were without power yesterday afternoon for about 2 hours, forcing some businesses in downtown Salida to close early.

     Xcel did not know the cause of the outage.  Xcel rerouted power to the area to restore electricity.

Access Granted…But

     Chaffee County commissioners approved the access permit to County Road 105 from the Salida Natural Resource Center after adding new conditions during their meeting yesterday.

     The permit passed two votes to one, with Commissioner Dave Potts voting no.

     The condition calls for a traffic study every 6 months and if the county receives “reasonable complaints” about traffic because of the access, commissioners could close the access or make it emergency only.

Plan Adopted

     Salida City Council last night approved an update to the comprehensive plan.

     The plan is not a regulatory document for the city, but rather is a guiding document to aid the city with future projects and budgeting.

SNRCDC Open

     The Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corp. board adopted the Colorado Open Meeting Act into its bylaws at their meeting yesterday.

     City Attorney Karl Hanlon told the board the amendment to the bylaws would treat the board as a “local public body” as defined by the state’s open meeting law.

Descant Pleads Guilty

     Salida artist Jimmy Descant pleaded guilty in Chaffee County Court this week to a petty offense of criminal trespass.

     Descant was fined $50 and court cost of $69.50.

     The charges stemmed form hanging a piece of artwork depicting “Brains Over Guns” on private property near Salida High School.

Hospital Forum

     The League of Women Voters of Chaffee County will present an issue forum about the upcoming Salida Hospital District election tonight at the Salida Community Center starting at 5:30 pm.

     The election on May 7 will allow voters to decide on a proposal to eliminate term limits for board members.

Prescribed Burn Planned

     The U.S. Forest Service is planning a prescribed burn near O’Haver Lake adjacent to County Road 200 between now and the first of May.

     The project involves burning up to 260 acres to reduce the accumulation of hazardous fuels.

     Once the burn begins, smoke will be visible throughout the Arkansas River Valley and the northern portion of San Luis Valley.

Food Distribution

     There will be a commodities food distribution for Chaffee County residents tomorrow morning from 9 to 10:30 am at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds and at the Buena Vista Community Center on Friday from noon to 1 pm.

     You must have a current card to receive commodities.  Cards will be issued on site.  Proof of income and a picture ID is required.

They Grow Up So Fast

     Kindergarten registration will take place tomorrow from 4 to 7 pm at Avery Parsons Elementary in Buena Vista.

     A certified birth certificate and immunization records are required.

In Sports—

     The Salida Lady Spartans beat the Demons of Buena Vista on the soccer field yesterday 3-1.  Spartan sophomore Melia Golin scored the three goals for Salida.

      In baseball, Monte Vista beat Salida yesterday 9-6.

     The Rockies took both games of a double-header with the Mets yesterday, overcoming a six run deficit to take the night cap 9-8.

News Headlines For Tuesday, April 16, 2013

     A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through tomorrow night for all of Central Colorado.

     A strong spring storm will move through, bringing moderate to heavy snow.  Over a foot of snow is possible by tomorrow night.

     Travel will become hazardous due to poor visibility and icy, snow covered roads.

     Avalanche danger will become considerable over the high mountain passes.

Salidans Safe

     Dan and Jan Schmidt of Salida were in Boston yesterday when the explosions took place. 

     Dan ran in the marathon and safely left the area before the explosions occurred near the finish line.

     Jan told the Mountain Mail yesterday by phone, “We were a couple of blocks away when it happened, we heard the explosions, It’s been crazy.”

     Jan said all in her party were safe.

Fire Closes Holman

     A fire caused minor smoke damage yesterday at Riverbend Apartments on Holman Avenue in Salida.

     Salida Fire Chief Doug Bess said the very small fire was quickly put out by firefighters.

     When firefighters entered the first floor apartment, they found it completely filled with smoke.

     A fire was found in the bathroom trash can.

     No one was at home at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported. 

A Busy Meeting Day Today

     Salida City Council will consider adopting an update to the city’s comprehensive plan during its 6 pm meeting tonight at the Touber Building.

     Council will also adjourn to executive session to discuss the Holman Diligence Case.

     The Salida Natural Resource Center Development board will adopt the Colorado Open Meeting Act into its bylaws during their meeting today.

     Salida Hospital District directors will discuss canvassing for its May 7 election during their monthly meeting at 6 pm tonight at the Sangre de Cristo Electric Association community room in Buena Vista.

     The election is on the issue of removing term limits for the board of directors.

     Chaffee County officials will present information and take public input about the master plan for the Chaffee County Fairgrounds during a meeting at 6:30 pm tonight at the fairgrounds.

Bighorn Study

     Wildlife managers are studying local bighorn sheep herds in an effort to stop the decline in populations recorded during the last 10-15 years across Colorado.

     Two current studies aim to identify the cause, which may include a decline due to respiratory disease caused by bacterial pneumonia spreading among herds of bighorns.

In Sports—

     A lot of high school sports to choose from today.

     In baseball, the Spartans are hosting Monte Vista, Cotopaxi is hosting Sierra Grande 

     The Salida tennis team is hosting Pueblo Central and Buena Vista is in Salida to take on the Spartan soccer team.

     A couple of Salida High School athletes have signed national letters of intent to play sports in college.

     Brooke Love has committed to swim for the College of St. Mary’s in Omaha.

     Brandon Coleman will wrestle for the School of Mines.

     The Nuggets won a wild game in Milwaukee last night, beating the Bucks 112-11. It was the Nuggets 56th win of the season and the victory gave Denver home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs.

News Headlines For Monday, April 15, 2013

Browns Canyon Discussed

     U.S. Senator Mark Udall and Rep. Doug Lamborn held a public meeting Saturday to listen to support and concerns about Udall’s proposal for Browns Canyon National Monument and Wilderness Area.

     About 250 people attended the meeting giving their opinion on the proposal to designate 22,000 acres a national monument and 10,500 acres of new wilderness.

     Those opposed cited costs to the county and restrictions on access.

     Those in favor said the designation would help by bringing more recognition to the area’s natural assets and would increase tourism.

     Udall intends to host another public input meeting in May before introducing legislation in June.

Schwartz And Cables Meet In BV

     Senator Gail Schwartz and Colorado Parks and Wildlife Director Rick Cables gave an update on bills moving through the Colorado Legislature during a town-hall meeting Saturday in Buena Vista.

     The discussion was mostly on proposals relevant to Chaffee County residents, including renewing the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp, water conservation and a program allowing big-game hunting on private land.

Chaffee Commissioners To Meet

     Chaffee County Commissioners will resume their consideration of an access permit to County Road 105 for the Salida Natural Resource Center during their regular meeting tomorrow morning at 9 am at the Buena Vista School District office.

     In other business, commissioners will consider the annual Wildfire Operating Plan for Chaffee and Lake Counties.

BV School Board Meets

     The Buena Vista School Board meets tonight at 6 pm in the Media Center.

     Action items include the resignations of Middle School Dean of Students Mark Walters and High School Spanish teacher Laura Shafer.

     The board will also discuss several new course offerings at the high school.

Hospital Forum

     The League of Women Voters of Chaffee County will present an issue forum about the upcoming Salida Hospital District election Wednesday at the Salida Community Center starting at 5:30 pm.

     The election on May 7 will allow voters to decide on a proposal to eliminate term limits for board members.

In Sports—

     Buena Vista split a double-header with Manitou Springs on Saturday, winning the first game 6-5 and dropping the second 7-6.

     Florence was all over the Spartans on Saturday, sweeping their double-header.  The Huskies beat Salida 16-4 and 30-3.

     The Salida girls’ team placed first and the boys placed second Saturday at the first varsity track meet at Salida High School in 15 years.

     The Buena Vista boys took second place.

     The Nuggets set a franchise record for victories in a season in a 118-109 win over Portland yesterday.  Denver has 55 wins with 2 regular season games to go.

News Headlines For Friday, April 12, 2013

Diesslin Named Manager

     Diesslin Structures has been named construction manager for the $6.7 million project to replace the primary wing of Avery-Parsons Elementary School in Buena Vista.

     President John Diesslin said he wants to reassure local contractors that there will be work opportunities on the project.

     A job fair will be held in late April or early May to identify local contractors and subcontractors interested in the project.

Hospital Forum

     The League of Women Voters of Chaffee County will present an issue forum about the upcoming Salida Hospital District election next Wednesday at the Salida Community Center.

     The election on May 7 will allow voters to decide on a proposal by the hospital district’s board of directors to eliminate term limits for board members.

A Busy BV

     A busy weekend in Buena Vista.

     More than 50 local businesses and community groups will showcase their products and services at the Buena Vista Spring Trade Show from 10 am to 3 pm at McGinnis Middle School.

     The 9Health Fair will also take place at the middle school in BV from 7 am to 11 am.

     The Taste of Buena Vista takes place at the middle school gym from 2 pm to 4 pm.  Local restaurants and caterers will provide samples of their food.  Tickets are available at the BV Chamber of Commerce.

In Sports—

     The Championship of the Salida Men’s Town Team Basketball League is Sunday.

     Y&K Excavating faces R&R Construction at the Salida High School beginning at 7 pm.

     High School Baseball:

     Custer County beat Sanford yesterday 16-7.

     Cotopaxi host Centennial today.

     Salida is hosting Florence tomorrow for a double-header beginning at 11 am, also beginning at 11 am is a double-header between the Demons and Manitou Springs in BV.

News Headlines For Thursday, April 11, 2013

Shaffer Appears in Court

     53-year-old Michael Shaffer, owner of Mountain Pawn and Gun in Salida, faces 455 counts of improper record keeping by a pawnbroker, a Class 1 misdemeanor that carries a penalty of 6 to 18 months in jail and fines of $500 to $5,000.

     At his court appearance yesterday, Shaffer’s attorney requested a continuance to allow more time to review a plea deal offered by the district attorney.

     Shaffer will appear again in court June 4.

Open School Board Seats

     Four seats on the Salida school board will come up for election in November.

     Board seats for District 3, held by Beth Pack; District 4, held by Russell Granzella; District 5, Lezlie Burkley; and District 7, Albert Lionelle, will open up this year.

     Three Salida city council seats will open up this year, which means seven local positions will be up for elections at once.

Udall Host Meeting

     U.S. Senator Mark Udall will host a listening session to hear community comments about his Browns Canyon Monument and Wilderness Area proposal.

     The public meeting is at Noah’s Ark Whitewater Rafting company on Highway 285 in Nathrop beginning at 10 am.

Drug Take Back Day

     The Chaffee County and Fremont County Sheriff’s offices will participate in the sixth annual National Drug Take Back Day on April 27.

     The program is focused on providing convenient locations for the public to clean out excess, unused and expired controlled substances from their medicine cabinets.

Quiet, I’m Hunting Wabbit

     Hunters harvested 313 elk and 501 deer in Chaffee County during the 2012 hunting season.

     During the season, 3,000 hunters tried their luck.

     Some 12,000 hunters will take to the fields and woods of Colorado as part of the spring turkey season.

     Turkey season begins Saturday.

In Sports—

     The Salida Girls Softball League is sponsoring a softball clinic open to all girls interested in playing softball this summer.

     Girls ages 7 to 16 are welcome tomorrow from 2:30 to 4 pm at Marvin Park.

     The Nuggets beat San Antonio last night 96-86, giving Denver its 21st consecutive win at home, the longest winning streak in team history.  The Nuggets have won 54 games, with 4 regular season games remaining.

News Headlines For Tuesday, April 9, 2013

A Spring Winter Storm

     A Winter Weather Advisory for the lower elevations is in effect until 6 pm tonight.  A Winter Weather Warning is in effect for the higher elevations.  The Front Range, including Canon City, Pueblo and Colorado Springs, is under a Blizzard Warning.

     A strong spring storm system will bring snow and wind to our region.  Four to eight inches of snow is possible in the higher elevations with 2 to 5 inches possible over the lower elevations.

     Hazardous travel conditions are expected due to blowing snow, poor visibilities and icy, snowpacked roads.

     Two weather related cancelations:  Both the Salida and Buena Vista Girls Soccer games have been canceled.

County Road 105 Access

     Chaffee County commissioners instructed staff yesterday during their work session to incorporate new language into an access permit for County Road 105.

     The changes, requested by the Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corp. board, involve handling the impact of increased traffic on CR 105 from the Natural Resource Center.

     The NRCDC board’s changed from 30 days to 90 days the time that the board has to complete a traffic study when it appears traffic on the road has reached unreasonable levels.

     The commissioners will consider the access permit during their meeting today.

Don’t Speed In BV

     Higher fines are in the works for traffic violations like speeding, reckless driving and parking in no-parking zones in Buena Vista.

     The Buena Vista board of trustees is scheduled to consider amending the town’s municipal code to raise the penalties at it’s 7 pm meeting tonight at the Community Center.

In Sports—

     Y&K Excavation remains undefeated in the Salida Town Team Basketball League with a perfect 13-0 record.

     The four teams in the league will begin their championship games with Cellar Wine playing R&R Construction tomorrow night at 7 pm followed by Y&K taking on Jerry’s Gang at 8 pm.  Both games will be played at Salida High School.

News Headlines For Monday, April 8, 2013

Search For Driver Continues

     Salida Police continue to search for a person who fled the scene after crashing into a power pole on Poncha Blvd early Saturday morning.

     The crash knocked out power for 2,000 Xcel Energy customers.  Power was restored by 9:45 am Saturday.

     Police report that a 2009 Toyota Scion, heading east on Poncha Boulevard, went off the road and struck the utility pole before rolling across the road into Witty Park and into a driveway on Third Street.

     The unknown driver fled on foot, and still has not been located.

     Police know the driver was injured pretty bad because of blood found at the scene.

Teens Arrested In Saguache

     Two male juveniles, ages 14 and 16, were arrested last week for allegedly threatening to shoot teachers and students at Mountain Valley School in Saguache.

     According to a report by the Saguache County Sheriff’s office, the two teens were at the home of adult friends when the younger teen told the women that they were planning to “blow off a teacher’s head and kill as many people as possible,” then commit suicide following the shootings.

     They were both charged with false reporting of explosives, weapons or harmful substances, conspiracy to commit false reporting of explosives.  Both were transported to the Saguache County Jail.

     The younger teen was later released on a $2,000 bond and the older teen was transported to the Alamosa Youth Detention Center.

Redwine Search Continues

     Volunteers and law enforcement officials hope the spring thaw will turn up new clues in the search for a 14-year-old boy who was reported missing in southwestern Colorado last November.

     Denise Hess, who organizes volunteers looking for Dylan Redwine, says the group is trying to raise money to hire teams that specialize in deep water searches.

     Crews have focused their search on Vallecito Reservoir near Durango.

     Dylan has been missing since November 19.   

Salida Street Closure

     The City of Salida Public Department will be installing a water valve and will have 7th Street from F to G closed today until further notice.

In Sports—

     Buena Vista won both games of a double-header against Salida on Saturday.  The Demons beat the Spartans 12-2 in the first game, 5-3 in the second.

     The Rockies beat the Padres yesterday in a 9-1 romp, improving to 5-1, their best start since 1995. 

News Headlines For Friday, April 5, 2013

Snowpack Increases

     March snowfall increased snowpack in the Arkansas River Basin to 74 percent of average.

     Natural Resources Conservation Service says while the numbers remain below average, snowpack stands at 122 percent of last years levels in the basin.

     Reservoir storage in the basin stands at 55 percent of average.

     Reservoir storage remains well below average statewide, and all major basins in Colorado are expected to see below average runoff this spring and summer.

Salida To Remove Trees

     The City of Salida will soon remove five rotting willow and cottonwood trees in Riverside Park that “pose an enormous threat to the public.”

     Grounds supervisor Kevin Crowley told Salida city councilmen that with summer coming on, removing the trees is a priority.

     The Tree Board is hosting a public meeting next Wednesday at 5:30 pm in Riverside Park to answer the public’s questions and explain why the board feels the work is necessary.

Springs Woman Charged With Murder

     When police spotted a bloody butcher knife on the kitchen counter of a southeastern Colorado Springs apartment, Ellyzabeth Rainey held up her 2-month-old baby.

     “Take my baby,” court papers say she told police.  “Because I am going to run.”

     Police say Rainey threw her baby and ran.

     An officer caught the child.

     Police caught Rainey in the courtyard outside the apartment building and asked why she ran.

     In the police arrest affidavit, officers wrote that she said, “Because I just murdered someone.”

     19-year-old Rainey was arrested on suspicion of killing her mother-in-law, 59-year-old Deborah Rainey.

BV Watering

     The Buena Vista board of trustees has approved voluntary water restrictions for the upcoming summer months.

     Odd number addresses can water Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.  Even number addresses water on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

     BV residents are asked to water only from 5 pm to 9 am.

In Sports—

     The Ark Valley High Rollers will play their first home bout of the season at 6 pm tomorrow night at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds.

     The High Rollers will divide into two teams to compete as the Disco Divas and the Hippie Chicks.

     Spectators are invited to dress up in disco or hippie attire and compete in the halftime costume contest.

     The Salida Spartan baseball team travels to Buena Vista for a double-header tomorrow—first pitch is at 11 am.

     Cotopaxi is hosting La Veta today.

     Buena Vista High School’s Graham Bachmann has signed a national letter of intent to play football for Adams State University.

     Bachmann was a defensive and offensive lineman for the Demons.

     The Nuggets edged Dallas last night, 95-94.

News Headlines For Thursday, April 4, 2013

St. Vincent CEO Search

     The St. Vincent Hospital Board has announced that Joyce Beck, most recently chief executive officer of Thayer County Health Services in Nebraska is a finalist for the position of CEO at the Leadville hospital.

     So far, Beck is the only finalist announced.

Race Series Means $$

     According to a study performed by Colorado Mountain College, the 2012 Leadville Race Series had an economic impact of just over $15 million on Lake County.

     The study was performed by distributing a survey to participants of the race series.  The data from that survey was then analyzed to determine the series’ impact on the county.

Investigation Continues

     The investigation centering on the Lake County Building Department is continuing, and no charges have been filed.

     District Attorney Bruce Brown told the Herald Democrat, “As previously confirmed, we are currently investigating possible criminal activity by a county employee,” adding that things are moving slowly due to “other, unforeseen needs in unrelated cases.”

In Sports—

     The Nuggets blew out the Utah Jazz last night 113-96.  With the win, the Nuggets have the third-most wins in the Western Conference, with seven games remaining.

     The Rockies beat Milwaukee yesterday 7-3 to win the series with the Brewers 2-1.

News Headlines For Wednesday,

April 3, 2013

Council – Commissioners Meet

     The Salida City Council last night approved on second reading an ordinance for a $10,000-a-year lease with Union Pacific Railroad for a parking lot north of the F Street Bridge.

     Council also approved an ordinance leasing property in the Touber Building to the Colorado Department of Revenue to establish a Department of Motor Vehicle office.

     Also approved at last nights meeting was a bid award of $14,575 to Diesslin Structures for renovations of suites 133 and 134 in the Touber Building.

     Chaffee County Commissioners voted at their meeting yesterday to make “use of geothermal resources for the commercial production of electricity” an activity of state interest.

     To put geothermal regulations into place, the county first had to declare the activity a subject of state interest, which places a moratorium on the activity until the county develops and approves regulation.

Public Park Plan

     The City of Salida is holding a public meeting tonight to review the progress on the Centennial Park Master Plan.

     The meeting begins at 6 pm at the SteamPlant.

     Audience members will be asked to comment on the plans and to make suggestions.

Hospital To Hold Election

     The Salida Hospital District will hold a special election on Tuesday, May 7, regarding the ballot question of whether to eliminate term limits for the hospital district’s board of directors.

     Currently hospital directors may serve up to two consecutive four-year terms before they are term limited.

     Applications for mail-in ballots will be accepted until 4 pm April 30.  The application can be picked up at the main desk at the hospital or downloaded online from www.hrrmc.com.

Take Back Day Set

     The Chaffee County Sheriff’s office will participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Take Back Day April 27.

     This program is focused on providing convenient locations across the nation for the public to clean out excess, unused and expired controlled substances and other medications from your medicine cabinet.

     The event is a collaboration of the sheriff’s office, the Salida and Buena Vista police departments and Chaffee County Build-A-Generation.

Click It or Ticket

     In an effort to increase seat belt use on rural Colorado roadways, the Colorado State Patrol and 18 law enforcement agencies are mobilizing for a “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement period, going on now until April 7th.

     The campaign is targeting male pickup truck drivers, as they have the lowest seat belt use in the state.

     During last years “Click It or Ticket” campaign, 2,131 seat belt citations were written at $65 per violation.

In Sports—

     The Salida Girls Softball League is hosting a clinic open to all girls interested in playing this summer.  Girls between ages 7 and 16 are welcome this Friday from 2:30 to 4 pm at Marvin Park.

News Headlines For Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Body Identified

     The Fremont County Corner has identified the woman whose remains were found Sunday morning at the bottom of the Royal Gorge.

     38-year-old Caroline Sehl of the Denver area apparently jumped from the bridge sometime Saturday evening.

     Canon City police were dispatched to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park Saturday night when park rangers discovered an abandoned car in one of their parking lots.

     Sehl’s body was discovered at about 5:30 am Sunday morning.

Hospital CEO Chosen

     The Salida Hospital District board of directors voted to offer the position of Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center CEO to Robert Morasko during a special meeting yesterday.

     Morasko most recently served as CEO at Campbell County Memorial Hospital in Gillette, Wyoming.

     In explaining their reasons for selecting Morasko, board members cited his experience at both large and small hospitals, his views on strategic planning and his financial knowledge.

Four Arrested In Poncha

     A routine traffic stop results in arrests.

     Chaffee County sheriff’s deputies arrested four people on various charges after finding a stolen vehicle Friday in Poncha Springs.

     34-year-old Elijah Patterson of Colorado Springs was arrested on felony charges of aggravated motor vehicle theft, possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a previous offender.  Patterson is being held in lieu of $15,000 bail.

     35-year-old Jaime Vazquez of Poncha Springs was arrested on two felony counts of possession of illegal drugs.

     28-year-old Yolanda Lovette of Security and 18-year-old Jacob Arellano-Owens were both arrested on a felony charge of accessory to a crime.

Click It or Ticket

     In an effort to increase seat belt use on rural Colorado roadways, the Colorado State Patrol and 18 law enforcement agencies are mobilizing for a “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement period, going on now until April 7th.

     The campaign is targeting male pickup truck drivers, as they have the lowest seat belt use in the state.

     During last years “Click It or Ticket” campaign, 2,131 seat belt citations were written at $65 per violation.

Hunt Street Closed

     The Salida Public Works Department will begin installing a new fire hydrant today on Hunt Street.

     The 500 and 600 blocks of Hunt will be closed until work is completed.

     Water will be shut off from 8 am to 4 pm today in the following areas:  Chilcott to Jones on Hunt Street; Jones Avenue from Hunt to Palmer; Palmer and Jones to Palmer and Nicholls; and Nicholls from Palmer to Hunt.

In Sports—

     It was an opening day loss for the Rockies. 

     The Brewers won 5-4 in 10 innings.

News Headlines For Monday, April 1, 2013

Hunt Street Closed

     The Salida Public Works Department will begin installing a new fire hydrant today on Hunt Street.

     The 500 and 600 blocks of Hunt will be closed until work is completed.

     Water will be shut off from 8 am to 4 pm tomorrow in the following areas:  Chilcott to Jones on Hunt Street; Jones Avenue from Hunt to Palmer; Palmer and Jones to Palmer and Nicholls; and Nicholls from Palmer to Hunt.

Body Found At Royal Gorge

     Canon City police discovered a body at the bottom of the Royal Gorge early yesterday morning.

     The body has not yet been identified.

     Officers first found an abandoned Denver area car in the Royal Gorge parking lot Saturday night.

     The coroner will identify the body and next of kin will be notified before the police department will release additional information.

Chaffee Commissioners Meet

     Chaffee County Commissioners will hold a public hearing tomorrow morning at 10 am to consider designation of “use of geothermal resources for the commercial production of electricity” as a new activity of state interest.

     The hearing will be part of the commissioners’ regular meeting at the Chaffee County Courthouse.

In Sports—

     The Spartans dropped both games of a double-header to the reigning conference champions The Classical Academy on Saturday, losing 13-0 and 23-4.

     Buena Vista won the first game of their double-header with Colorado Springs Christian 6-3, and lost the second 15-12.

     The Demons will host the Spartans this Saturday.

     Cotopaxi won both their games against Primero, 9-4 and 18-7.    

News Headlines For Friday, March 29, 2013

And The New CEO Is…..

     The Salida Hospital District board of directors will meet Monday morning at 7 am to determine the final candidate for the Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center CEO position.

     The board finished the last of the site visits and interviews March 22nd.

Nothing Changes With Monument

     Senator Mark Udall announced yesterday his proposal to create Browns Canyon National Monument and Wilderness Area, stating there would be “no disruption to existing uses.”

     Udall said in a press release that grazing rights, water rights, hunting, fishing and outfitting uses will be unaffected by the proposal.

     Udall will host a public meeting April 13 at Noah’s Ark Whitewater Rafting Company in Nathrop to gather comments about the proposal from local residents.

DA Investigating Building Department

     The Herald newspaper has learned that the Lake County District Attorney’s office is currently conducting an investigation that centers on the Lake County Building Department.

     District Attorney Bruce Brown confirmed to the Herald that his office is investigating on behalf of Sheriff Rod Fenske.  He added that he hopes to have some findings to report in the next few weeks.

Center Closing Early

     The U.S. Postal Service announced this week that the Salida mail processing center will be one of 53 centers slated to close in 2013 instead of 2014.

     Salida Postmaster Lynn Kent told the Mountain Mail that none of the center’s “career employees” will be affected by the closing.

     When the Salida center closes, all mail-local and out of state-will first be taken to Denver for sorting before being delivered, making overnight delivery obsolete.

Help Wanted

     The Southwest Conservation Corps is hiring summer youth crew leaders for its Chaffee County Community Corps and AgriCorps crews.

     Submit your resume and cover letter that speak to your background working with youth and your experience in agriculture, conservation or other environmental fields to Julie Mach at Julie@scccorps.org or call 539-2438 with any questions.

Leadville Chamber Looking For Director

     Heather Scanlon has resigned as executive director of the Leadville/Lake County Chamber of Commerce.

     The chamber’s board of directors made the decision to staff the visitor center with temporary, paid staff until the permanent position can be filled.

Gobble, Gobble, Gobble

     Colorado Parks and Wildlife is hosting a free turkey hunting seminar tomorrow from 9 am to noon at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds.

     The seminar will cover the fundamentals of turkey behavior, where to look for turkeys and hunting techniques.

In Sports—

     High school baseball on tap this weekend.

     The Salida Spartans host The Classical Academy beginning at 11 am at Marvin Park.

     Buena Vista is on the road tomorrow for a doubleheader with Colorado Springs Christian.

     Cotopaxi is hosting Primero.

     The Avalanche failed to beat the Vancouver Canucks for the 20th consecutive time last night, losing 4-1.

     Tonight, the Nuggets host the Nets.

News Headlines For Thursday,

March 28, 2013

Round Up Gives

     At their March board meeting, the Sangre de Cristo Electric Round Up board contributed $2,000 to two local organizations.

     Chaffee County Montessori School received $1,000 to purchase books.  The Buena Vista Rotary Club also received $1,000 to purchase dictionaries.

     Operation Round Up is a voluntary program offered to Sangre de Cristo Electric members to help fund worthwhile projects in the community.

E-waste

     Beginning July 1st, Colorado residents no longer may dispose of most electronic waste in their household trash because Colorado landfills no longer may accept e-waste.

     The change is the result of a new law, the Electronic Recycling Jobs Act.

     The new law applies to TV sets, computer monitors, printers and fax machines, all laptops, DVD players and any video device with a screen larger than four inches.

     E-waste is anything with a plug or circuit board excluding major appliances.

CMC Wants You

     Colorado Mountain College in Leadville is hosting an open house on Saturday, April 13th for high school seniors and anyone else interested in CMC.

     Sign up online by going to the CMC Leadville page and clicking on the open house link, or call 719-486-4291.

In Sports—

     The Nuggets had a shot to win at San Antonio last night, but Andre Miller’s layup at the buzzer missed and the Spurs won 100-99.

News Headlines For Wednesday,

March 27, 2013

Man Dies At Monarch

     A Colorado Springs man died of natural causes while on Monarch Mountain on Monday.

     42-year-old Christopher Rush was at Monarch skiing with family members for the day when some skiers found him near KC Cutoff, unconscious and nonresponsive, and started CPR.  The Monarch Ski Patrol arrived at the seen and took over CPR but was unsuccessful.

     The Mountain Mail is reporting that Rush died of Cardiac tamponade.

Park Plan Meeting Tonight

     The City of Salida is holding a public meeting tonight to review the progress of the Centennial Park Master Plan.

     Audience members will be asked to comment on the plans and to make suggestions for staff to consider.

     The meeting begins at 6 pm at the SteamPlant.

Avoid The Lines

     The 9Health Fair is coming to many area communities in April and preregistration is going on now.

     Participants can preregister and prepay online for the fair’s low cost screenings.  To register online, go to 9healthfair.org, click on Find a Fair, select your town, click the search button, then scroll down the page and click the “you can register online now” link.

Calling All Servers, Bartenders

     The Salida Vaqueros, the Salida Chamber of Commerce and Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center would like to invite all businesses and retailers to attend the April “Business After Hours” at the SteamPlant April 10th.

     This “Business After Hours” is a special event focusing on educating the front line people about all the fun things to do in Chaffee County.  The theme is “Kick Off to Summer…Stay Another Day” targeting tourists to stay and play one more day.

     For more information, call the chamber at 539-2068.

In Sports—

     The Nuggets try to get back on the winning track after New Orleans snapped a Denver 15-game winning streak on Monday.

     The Nuggets are in San Antonio tonight to take on the Spurs.

News Headlines For Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Salida School Honored

     The Colorado Legacy Foundation is recognizing 34 schools in the state as 2013 Healthy School Champions.

     The 34 schools will be awarded just over $42,000.

     Salida Middle School made the cut and will received $1,000 from the non-profit organization.

Unemployment Down

     The unemployment rate in Chaffee County decreased .5 percent in January to 6.8 percent.

     The unemployment rate in the county a year ago was at 7.8 percent.

     The statewide unemployment rate is 7.3 percent.

Drone Laws Needed

     U.S. Senator Mark Udall announced yesterday that he is developing legislation to ensure that privacy rights are protected as new and innovative private sector drones for domestic use become more prevalent.

     Udall is working to update safeguards to protect Americans from being surveilled by private drone operators without their consent, addressing concerns raised by his constituents while helping to head off possible legal problems for an emerging and potentially important industry for Colorado.

St. Patty’s DUI Arrests

     The Colorado Department of Transportation’s “Heat Is On” campaign over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend saw 481 Coloradans arrested for DUI.  That’s compared to 424 DUI arrests over the same period last year.

     The “Heat Is On” campaign runs year round with 12 specific enforcement periods.

CEO Search Down To Three

     The Salida Hospital District Board of directors has finished interviewing the three Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center CEO finalist.

     The are Robert Morasko, most recently chief executive officer at Campbell County Hospital in Gillette, Wyoming.

     Thomas Nordwick of Decatur, Indiana and George Rohrich of Craig, Colorado.

     The board will discuss the new CEO at their meeting tonight at 6 pm.     

Salidans On TV

     A new Weather Channel program featuring Salida’s own Brian Busse and his family searching for gems on Mt. Antero debuts tonight.

     “Prospectors” will feature nine 30-minute episodes and the SteamPlant will premier the first two episodes, back-to-back, along with behind the scenes footage and commentary from Brian.

     The Busse family will be at the SteamPlant from 1 to 5 pm for a meet and great.  Episodes air at 7 pm.

In Sports—

     The Hornets ended the Nuggets’ 15-game win streak last night with a 110-86 win.

News Headlines For Monday, March 25, 2013

CEO Search Down To Three

     The Salida Hospital District Board of directors has finished interviewing the three Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center CEO finalist.

     The are Robert Morasko, most recently chief executive officer at Campbell County Hospital in Gillette, Wyoming.

     Thomas Nordwick of Decatur, Indiana and George Rohrich of Craig, Colorado.

     The board will discuss the new CEO at their meeting tomorrow night at 6 pm.          

Tax Time

     Personal property tax declarations are due April 15 at the county assessor’s office for all businesses.

     The declaration applies to “all persons who own, possess or control taxable personal property with a total value greater than $7,000.”

     Failure to declare personal property each year by the deadline will result in the assessor valuing the property using the “best information available” and attaching a penalty to the owner’s tax bill.

Parvovirus At Shelter

     The Ark-Valley Humane Society shelter in Buena Vista is quarantined because of parvovirus in a litter of puppies left at the shelter.

     The shelter is offering a $100 reward for the identification of the mother of the litter so she can be vaccinated and spayed.

     Shelter staff suspects the puppies were being handed out for free at Walmart.  Anyone who picked up a free puppy there should take the puppy to a veterinarian to be vaccinated.

Planning Meeting Tonight

     The Salida Planning Commission will continue a public hearing on the city’s 2013 comprehensive plan 6 pm today in council chambers at 448 E. Fist Street.

     The comprehensive plan will serve as a guiding document for the city as it relates to aspects like land use, transportation, recreation, tourism and public safety.

     A draft of the plan is available on the city’s website, cityofsalida.com.

In Sports—

     Tim Devos of Salida won the 13-and-older skiing category at the inaugural Never Stop Jibbing Jam at Monarch Mountain yesterday.

     On one of his runs, Devos did a front flip, landing backwards, over half of the rainbow rail.

News Headlines For Friday, March 22, 2013

Next!

     Due to an unprecedented increase in Concealed Hangun Permit applications during the first quarter of 2013, beginning Monday, the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office will begin processing CHP applications by appointment only.

     Applications can be obtained on the Fremont county website—fremontco.com—or at the sheriff’s office.

     Citizens must then contact the sheriff’s office to schedule a date and time to submit their completed application for processing.

Did You Bring Enough For Everybody

     Five inmates at the Chaffee County jail received additional charges after one allegedly returned from his work release with amphetamines to share.

     Sheriff Pete Palmer said 21-year-old Trenton Nordby of Poncha Springs returned from his work release with amphetamines and shared them with inmates Lukas Garcia, Robert Richards, Dustin Petersen—all from Salida, along with Brandon Scott of Buena Vista.

     Nordby was charged with possession of amphetamines and introducing contraband.

     Garcia, Scott, Richards and Petersen were each charged with possession of amphetamines.

Civil Unions Now Law

     Gov. John Hickenlooper signed the Colorado Civil Union Act into law yesterday.

     The act, which will take effect May 1, authorizes two unmarried adults to enter into a civil union, which provides legal benefits, protections and responsibilities similar to those granted to spouses.

     The act does not create a marriage, which is barred under the state constitution.

Got A Bed For The Night?

     Ride the Rockies is coming to Salida June 13 and organizers are looking for home stays.

     If you would like to host a cyclist, call the Salida Chamber of Commerce.

Lent Fish

     The Rotary Friday Fish Dinner is tonight from 4:30 to 7 pm at the Salida Community Center.

     Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children.

     Proceeds benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund.

In Sports—

     The Spartan baseball team beat Custer County 10-6 in the first game and tied 9-9 in the second game of a doubleheader yesterday.

     Buena Vista lost to Alamosa yesterday 13-1.

     Buena Vista senior Dakota DeFurio has signed a letter of intent to play football at Adams State University in Alamosa.

     DeFurio was a running back and linebacker for the state runner-up Demons.

     The Colorado State Rams won their first NCAA tournament game since 1989 last night, an 84-72 victory over Missouri.

     Colorado plays Illinois today.

     The 76ers were up by eight points with two minutes left—but the Nuggets fought back and won 101-100 last night at the Pepsi Center.  That makes 14 wins in a row, a team record.

News Headlines For Thursday,

March 21, 2013

Hunt Closed

     Hunt Street in Salida from Dodge to Maxwell is closed. 

     The Salida Public Works Department is removing an old fire hydrant.

Center Ousts Officials

     Voters in the town of Center have recalled two town trustees and the mayor in a special election Tuesday.

     In preliminary totals released by the Center town clerk, Mayor Susan Banning was recalled by a 253-218 vote, with trustees John Faron and Maurice Jones were recalled by 252-206 and 243-209 votes, respectively.

     Center voters also voted on those who will replace the mayor and trustees.

     Herman Sisneros received 270 votes to succeed Banning.  Edward Garcia and Geraldine Martinez will replace the two trustees.

LCEDC Forms

     CEO of Colorado Mountain College Mike Simon was elected president of the board of the Lake County Economic Development Corporation at the group’s first organizational meeting.

     Vice president is Heather Lindh of Re/Max, Jeff McGuinness of High Peaks Payroll is treasurer and Tara Hosick of Climax is secretary of the board.

     The first task of the group will be to form a search committee for an economic development director.

HRRMC Gives To Clinic

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center CEO Ken Leisher and board chairman Dan Downing recently presented the Chaffee People’s Clinic with a $50,000 check.

     The donation was part of a challenge grant to improve access to local health care for the uninsured.  The challenge grant required the People’s Clinic to raise $100,000 in new donations.

     The People’s Clinic has offices in Salida and Buena Vista.

BV After Hours

     Tonight is the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours sponsored by the Collegiate Peaks Forum.

     Business after Hours from 5-7 pm at the BV Chamber.  Cost is $7.

In Sports—

     High school baseball this afternoon.

     Salida host Custer County for a double-header beginning at 3 pm at Marvin Park.

News Headlines For Wednesday,

March 20, 2013

SNRCDC Seats New Members

     The Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corp. installed four new members at their regular meeting yesterday.

     Walt Harder, Jim Miller, Susan Dempsey Hughes and Ray Kitson join Keith Baker, Tom Yerkey and Tim Glenn on the board.

     Before the installation of new members, the bylaws of the NRCDC had to be changed to allow non-Salida residents to serve on the board.

     Harder, Dempsey Hughes and Kitson all live outside the city limits.

     Officers were then elected with Baker keeping the presidents seat, Yerkey is vice-president, Jim Miller treasurer and city administrator Dara MacDonald secretary.

Salida Council Meets

     At last nights Salida City Council meeting, Bill Paradise of the Chaffee County Building Department gave a presentation to councilmen showing that building permits were up 25 percent in January and February of this year when compared to the same period in 2012.

     A parking lot lease at 323 West First Street that would accommodate 64 vehicles was unanimously approved on second reading.  The lot would be leased from RJPA, LLC at an annual rate of $9,000.

     Councilmen also voted to give Landmark Designation to the 1911 Kissel fire truck at the Salida Fire Department.

     Salida Fire Chief Doug Bess is currently raising funds to restore the first fire engine to be purchased by Salida.  The Landmark Designation now makes it eligible to receive grant money.

HRRMC Narrows CEO Search

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center is getting closer to hiring a new CEO.

     A special meeting of the Salida Hospital District Board of Directors has been scheduled for this Friday beginning at 12 noon.

     CEO selection is the lone item on the agenda.

     A new CEO is expected to be named by the end of the month to replace retiring Ken Leisher who’s last day is May 31.

Gobble Gobble Gobble

     Colorado Parks and Wildlife will host a free turkey hunting seminars in Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Salida.

     The seminars cover the fundamentals of turkey behavior, where to look for turkeys and hunting tactics and techniques.

     The Salida seminar will be Saturday, March 30 at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds from 9 am to 12 noon.

In Sports—

     Salida varsity baseball lost both of their double-header games yesterday against Alamosa 11-1, 13-1.

     Registration for the Salida Babe Ruth summer baseball league is now open and forms may be picked up at the Salida Library and the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center.

     Coaches are also needed.

     Y&K Excavating leads the Salida Men’s Town Basketball League with a perfect 11-0 record.

     Tonight Y&K takes on Cellar Wine and Spirits while Monarch faces R&R Construction. 

     Both games are at the Salida High School gym, first game starts at 7 pm.

News Headlines For Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Give Blood

     The Salida Community Blood Drive is taking place today from 11 am to 4:30 pm at the Salida Masonic Lodge at 140 W. Third Street.

     Walk-ins are welcome.

Long Day For City Council

     The Salida City Council is meeting for a work session today where they will hear from Tom Sobal of the Quiet Use Coalition concerning trails and impacts on municipal property on Tenderfoot Mountain.

     Council will also hear from Public Works Director Bob Salmi who will present his proposed work plan for street repair and maintenance in 2013.  The city has budgeted $650,000 for street maintenance and repair.

     There is a lengthy agenda for tonight’s regular meeting which begins at 6 pm in the Touber Building.

     Among other things, Council will put the parking lot lease at 323 W. First Street up for 2nd reading and a public hearing, hold a 1st reading of the Union Pacific Parking lot lease and will go into executive session to discuss the property acquisition and sale of Shangrila Mobile Home Park and the Lowry property.

Chaffee Commissioners Meet

     During the regular meeting of the Chaffee County Commissioners today at the Buena Vista School District office, commissioners will hear a report from Sheriff Pete Palmer, consider liquor license renewals for Mt. Princeton Hot Springs and will review reimbursement requests from the Nestle Water Reimbursement Fund.

Special School Board Meeting

     Salida school board members will hold a special meeting to discuss a parent complaint at 5:15 pm today in the Kesner Building.

     The board will adjourn to executive session for “discussion of individual students where public disclosure would adversely affect those involved.”

Report Cards Are Ready

     Salida High School will hold parent-teacher conferences from 4:30 to 7:30 pm tonight in the high school gym.

     All parents of students attending Salida High School should attend the conferences, at which parents can pick up their students’ third-period report cards.    

In Sports—

     The Nuggets beat Chicago last night 119-118 for their 12th consecutive victory, tying the longest win streak for Denver since they joined the NBA in 1976.

News Headlines For Monday, March 18, 2013

Way To Go Jacob And Ashlyn

     Congratulations to Salida High School seniors Jacob Adamson and Ashlyn Stewart—they have been named two of the 40 2013 Boettcher Foundation Scholarship recipients.

     The merit based scholarship provides a full ride to any college or university in Colorado.

     Adamson said he will attend the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Stewart is still considering her choices.

NRCDC Seats New Members

     The Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corp. board will seat four new directors during a public meeting at 11 am tomorrow in the Methodist Mountain Room in the Touber Building.

     The board will seat new directors Jim Miller, Susan Dempsey Hughes, Ray Kitson and Walt Harder.

HRRMC Board Meets

     There will be a special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Salida Hospital District beginning at 12 noon today.

     The board will immediately adjourn into Executive Session to discuss the CEO selection process.

     It’s possible a new CEO could be named at the next regular meeting of the hospital board March 26.

Give Blood

     The Salida Community Blood Drive will take place tomorrow from 11 am to 4:30 pm at the Salida Masonic Lodge at 140 W. Third Street.

     To make an appointment, call the Bonfils at 800-365-0006 ext 2 or go online to bonfils.org.

Down Come The Lights

     Volunteers will take down the Christmas Mountain USA lights on Tenderfoot Mountain at 10 am tomorrow.

     Salida Fire Capt. Chris Bainbridge said the weather has prevented crews from removing the lights sooner.

     Anyone who is interested in assisting should meet at the parking lot near the gate on Spiral Drive.

In Sports—

     The Salida Spartans lost 6-2 in the season opener to Center on Saturday.

     More baseball is on tap today as the Spartans are hosting Manitou Springs beginning at 3 pm

     The Cotopaxi baseball team got their season underway over the weekend as well, and they did it in style—beating Cripple Creek-Victor 24-4 in five innings.

     The Pirates will play Sargents tomorrow afternoon at 4 pm.

     Buena Vista was on the road to Valley to begin the season.  BV lost to Valley 19-3—Valley came out swinging, scoring 14 runs in the first inning.

News Headlines For Friday, March 15, 2013

No Air Force Band This Summer

     Because of the federal government’s automatic budget cuts, this summer’s Air Force Academy Band concert in Salida has been canceled.

     The Mountain Mail is reporting that along with the concert in Salida, the band has had to cancel almost 40 other events this year.

Say Good-bye To Antero

     Denver Water told Park County Commissioners this week that Denver Water will drain Antero Reservoir starting in April and end recreation there.

     The Shallow reservoir in southwestern Park County is being drained to save water that would be lost to evaporation.  About 4,000 acre-feet will be saved by putting the water in the deeper Eleven Mile Reservoir.

BV Water Restrictions Same As Last Year

     The Buena Vista Board of Trustees approved voluntary restrictions on outdoor water use at its meeting this week.

     Residents are asked not to water their lawns between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm.

     Homes with even-numbered addresses are requested to water on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, while those with odd-numbered addresses are asked to water on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.  No watering is to be conducted on Mondays.     

Head Start Sign Up Now

     The Head Start programs in Salida, Buena Vista and Leadville are currently recruiting new children for the 2013-2014 school year.

     Head Start programs promote school readiness.

     Space is limited, so interested families are encouraged to apply soon.  Applications are due by April 5.

     For more information, or to receive an application by mail, call 539-1184.

Antler Picking Time

     As antler collectors travel the back country in search of fresh sheds, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds them to avoid stressing wildlife still struggling to survive the cold weather and the lack of forage.

     Public land management agencies also recommend checking the latest rules and regulations regarding the use of motorized vehicles to avoid costly fines.      

St. Patty’s Day

     St. Patrick’s weekend means many will by out celebrating and the Colorado State patrol reminds you that the Heat Is On campaign will be in full force.

      State and local law enforcement will be setting up check points to reduce drunk driving.

      In Salida, a free shuttle service will be offered from 5 pm to 12 midnight.  To schedule pick ups, call 207-0371.

Calling All Green Thumbs

     A limited number of garden plots will be available for the 2013 growing season at the Salida Community Garden.

     Each plot measures 10 by 20 feet and rents for $50.

     The Salida Community Garden is a project of the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association.

Fishy Fishy

     The Salida Rotary Club’s Lent Fish Fry continues tonight at the Salida Community Center from 4:30 pm to 7 pm.

     Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

     All proceeds benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund.

In Sports—

     The Salida Lady Spartans varsity and junior varsity soccer teams beat the James Irwin Jaguars yesterday.

     Varsity won 2-1 and the JV won 4-0.

     Wide receiver Wes Welker was introduced as the newest Bronco yesterday.

     Welker played six seasons with New England but Denver offered more money on the first day of free agency.  Welker signed a two-year, $12 million contract with the Broncos.

News Headlines For Thursday,

March 14, 2013

Chilcott Closed

     The City of Salida Public Works Department will be installing a new fire hydrant on Chilcott Street between Palmer and Hunt Streets.

     Chilcott will be closed until further notice.

St. Vincent CEO Search

     The St. Vincent Hospital Board approved a process for finding and hiring its next CEO at a special meeting this week.

     The hospital has been searching for a new CEO since Roger Oberg resigned last August.

     The process is made up of a series of steps that include identifying candidates and search goals, interviewing the candidates in committees and releasing a list of finalist 14 days before a final decision.

     No time table was given.

Salida Blood Drive

     Bonfils will be conducting a community blood drive March 19 at the Salida Masonic Lodge.

     To make an appointment, call 800-365-0006 or sign up online at bonfils.org. 

Dog Walker Rescued

     Chaffee County Search and Rescue located a 58-year-old Swissvale man who became stranded near the Blank’s Cabin trailhead Sunday afternoon.

     A neighbor in Swissvale notified the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office when Dale Lee failed to return home after taking three dogs for a walk.

     Seven rescuers along with a deputy from the sheriff’s office participated in the rescue which began at 3:30 am Monday morning. 

     Using four 4-wheel drive vehicles and two snowmobiles, they located Lee on Placer Creek Road at about daybreak Monday morning.

     Lee had become stuck in his vehicle on the snow covered road.

     Rescuers were able to dig his vehicle out of the snow, allowing him to drive out.

     Roads in the Blank’s Cabin area are snow covered and not suitable for passenger vehicles at this time.

Way To Go Zach

     Colorado Parks and Wildlife Officer Zach Holder was presented a life-saving award after assisting in rescuing an elderly couple that was trapped the frigid waters of the Arkansas River near Five Points. 

     Holder responded to an accident where two elderly people had gone off the road and into a rapid in the river.  Their truck was filling up with water and Holder jumped in, broke the window and got them out.

     The award was presented by the Colorado Wildlife Employees Protective Association.     

In Sports—

     The Salida girls’ tennis team swept Cheyenne Mountain, 7-0, in the Spartans’ season opener yesterday.

     In the No. 1 singles match, Salida senior Jenn Wentz dominated her opponent winning both sets 6-0 and 6-0.

     In the No. 1 doubles match, Spartan sophomore Charlotte Price and freshman Dayna Stewart won 7-5, 1-6, 6-1.

     The Nuggets blew out the Knicks last night 117-94 t win their 10th consecutive game.

News Headlines For Wednesday,

March 13, 2013

Chaffee Building Fees Go Up

     Chaffee County Commissioners raised building permit fees during their regular meeting yesterday by passing a resolution that will go into effect July 1.

     This is an effort by commissioners to recoup some of the money it cost to run the department.  The county currently subsidizes the Building Department with about $100,000 annually from the county’s general fund.

Gun Bills Advance

     Five of seven gun related bills are advancing in the state legislature.

     Banning online certification for concealed carry permits, banning domestic violence abusers from owning guns, limiting gun ammunition magazines to 15 rounds, requiring gun buyers to pay for their own background checks and requiring background checks for all gun transfers, including private sales are all advancing to the Senate.

     The gun bills holding manufacturers liable for violence committed with the guns the make and banning concealed weapons on college campuses both were killed by their sponsors.

Civil Union Bill Passes

     Yesterday, the Colorado General Assembly passed the Colorado Civil Union Act, which provides gay couples the legal benefits, protections and responsibilities that are granted to married spouses under Colorado state law.

Register For Health

     The 9Health Fair will be in Buena Vista April 13 at the McGinnis Middle School from 7 to 11 am.

     Online registration is now open for those who have a credit card.  People can also register the day of the event and pay with cash.

     For information about available screenings go to 9HealthFair.org.

In Sports—

     The Salida girls whupped up on the Center soccer team yesterday with an 8-0 win.  Ruth Bartel and Melia Golin each scored two goals for the Spartans.

     The Salida Men’s Town Team Basketball League continues play tonight.  Y&K Excavating faces Monarch at 7 pm, followed by Cellar Wine and R&R Construction at 8 pm.  Y&K leads the league with a perfect 9-0 record.

     The good times stopped rolling for the Avs last night, when their two-game winning streak was snapped in a 4-0 loss to the visiting Edmonton Oilers.

News Headlines For Tuesday,

March 12, 2013

Crash Results In Two Fatalities

     A man and a woman were killed in a tree-vehicle crash yesterday that closed U.S. 285 at the base of Kenosha Pass.

     The identities of the victims have not been released.

     Hwy 285 was closed for about four hours yesterday afternoon while crews worked on the scene.  It reopened at 2:30 pm.

     According to the Colorado Highway Patrol, the two victims in the crash were traveling southbound on 285 in a pickup when the vehicle crossed into northbound lanes, sideswiping a car and collided head-on with another.

     Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

     Of the other two drivers involved in the crash, one had minor injuries and the other was unhurt.

Chaffee Commissioners Meet

     Chaffee County Commissioners will consider a resolution that would raise Building Department fees during their regular meeting today at the county courthouse.

     In other business, commissioners will consider waiving fees for the special event permit for the Salida Pole Pedal Paddle, will hear and consider a special land-use permit for a canine boarding hotel in a residential zone and will consider a road construction agreement for the realignment of County Road 302.    

Salida Planning Workshop Tonight

     The City of Salida is sponsoring a public workshop tonight to discuss the Salida Comprehensive Plan.  The meeting will begin at 6 pm in the SteamPlant Ballroom.

     The Planning Commission has been working for months to draft the language of the plan and they want to hear from you if they are on the right track.

     For more information, contact Salida Planning Director Michael Yerman.

Taxes Paid

     Sangre de Cristo Electric Association headquartered in Buena Vista recently paid their first-half property taxes totaling nearly $118,000.

     While Sangre de Cristo is a not-for-profit cooperative, they are not tax exempt and pay taxes like most businesses.

     The property taxes paid helps support schools and other agencies in Chaffee, Fremont, Custer, Lake and Saguache counties.

Hunter Education Class

     Colorado Parks and Wildlife is conducting a Hunter Education Class beginning this Thursday night at 7 pm at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds.

     Cost is $6 and no pre-registration is required.

     This course is required for anyone born after January 1, 1949, who wishes to hunt in Colorado.

     This will be the only course given in the Salida area this spring before the limited license application deadline of April 2.

In Sports—

     The Nuggets extended their winning streak to nine games last night with a 108-93 road victory over the Phoenix Suns.

     It’s a tough week for Denver.  The Nuggets face the Knicks tomorrow night and Memphis on Friday.

News Headlines For Monday,

March 11, 2013

Working To Lower Medical Costs

     The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced last week that the Upper Arkansas Area Council of Governments is one of 20 new partner organizations in the Care Transitions Program, which aims to reduce health care costs by reducing hospital readmissions.

     To implement the program, UAACOG will partner with Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center and other Medicare participants in Fremont, Lake, Custer and Teller counties.

     According to a press release from Colorado Senator Michael Bennet, in an 18-month trial of the program in 14 cities, health care costs were reduced an estimated $100 million.

Poncha Trustees To Meet

     The Poncha Springs Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting tonight at 6:30 pm at Town Hall.

     Agenda items include a resolution changing control of the cable television franchise in Poncha, a report on the Fairgrounds Master Plan and report about proposed unmanned vehicle testing in Chaffee County.

CEO Search Down To Three

     The search for a new CEO at Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center continues.

     Salida Hospital District directors will meet at noon this Wednesday and immediately adjourn to executive session.

     A new CEO to replace retiring Ken Leisher is expected to be named by the end of the month.

Foreclosure Help

     A Central Colorado Housing counselor will visit Salida on March 20 to meet with people needing assistance with housing or foreclosure prevention.

     All services are free and it is recommended that you make an appointment now.  You may do so by calling 539-6862.

Blood Drive Coming To BV

     Bonfils Blood Center will host a community blood drive on April 3 in the sanctuary of the Buena Vista Latter-day Saints church.

     To schedule an appointment, call 800-365-0006 option 2, or go online to bonfils.org.

In Sports—

     In regional basketball on Friday.

     Cotopaxi boys lost to Holly 60-38, the Lady Pirates lost against Eads 65-34.

     Custer County Boys won their first regional game on Friday—a 61-45 victory over Crowley County, but lost on Saturday to Peyton, 56-41.  The Custer County Girls lost to Las Animas in the first round 56-42.

     The Buena Vista Boys faced a tough Holy Family team and were defeated 63-30.

     And the Salida girls lost to Lamar 47-24.

     In Soccer, the Salida girl’s lost two games to Bayfield, 4-0 and 1-0, Friday and Saturday in Salida.

     Josh Arthur of Crested Butte won the annual Run Through Time Marathon on Saturday with a time of just over 3 minutes 6 minutes.  Kenny Wilcox of Salida won the half-marathon.

News Headlines For Friday, March 8, 2013

Winter Is Back

     Get ready for snow.

     The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm warning for today and tomorrow.

     Precipitation will begin as rain turning to snow.

     1 to 2 feet of snow is possible for the higher elevations.

G Closed

     The City of Salida has closed G Street between First and Second Streets because of a water line break.

     Public Works is working to fix the water line and G Street will reopen as soon as possible.

Hwy 50 Closed For 3 Hours

     Highway 50 was closed last night from Montrose to Gunnison after a Colorado Department of Transportation worker spotted a suspicious object at the Dillon Pinnacles overlook area at Blue Mesa Reservoir.

     A Colorado State Trooper inspected the object and believed it could be a device that could “compromise the public’s safety.”

     When Bomb Squad members arrived and inspected the object they determined that it was not a bomb nor was it hazardous.

     Highway 50 was closed from 7:30 to 10:30 pm.

Harding Violates Probation

     A former Canon City resident who is serving lifetime probation for felony sexual assault on a 15-year-old Buena Vista boy is accused of violating her probation, and her bail was set yesterday at $25,000 cash.

     District Attorney Thom LeDoux said 32-year-old Brenda Harding allegedly violated her probation by “continuing to engage in the type of actions that brought her to court in the first place.”

     A probation revocation hearing is scheduled for April 4.

Principal On Paid Leave

     Rim Watson, principal at Fitzsimmons Middle School in Bailey, has been placed on paid administrative leave.

     The Park County Sheriff’s office is investigating an alleged assault on parent Wendy Gruchow by Watson at a school accountability committee meeting this past Tuesday.

     A member of the committee, John Van Doren, who was present at the meeting, told The Flume newspaper that the allegation is “totally false,” and that Watson just lightly touched Gruchow and she had an emotional reaction to that.

Salida Murder Featured On Discovery Channel

     Tomorrow night on the Investigation Discovery network, the show “Deadly Sins” will feature the 2008 kidnapping and murder of James Durgan of Salida.

     31-year-old Durgan was the victim of a plot by his estranged wife, Kristin Durgan, along with Andrew Tanner and Brian Folsom.

     All Salida residents at the time, the three are now in prison.

Salazar Coming To Salida

     Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture John Salazar will visit Southwest Conservation Corps in Salida today.

     Salazar’s visit is part of AmeriCorps Week, a nation-wide event that spotlights the work done by AmeriCorps members since the national service program began 19 years ago.

Friday Fish

     The Salida Rotary Club is sponsoring a Fish Fry tonight at the Salida Community Center from 4:30 to 7 pm.

     Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

     Proceeds support scholarships for Salida graduating seniors.

We Lose An Hour

     It’s time to Spring forward.  Daylight saving time begins at 2 am Sunday.

     Set those clocks ahead one hour before going to bed Saturday night.

In Sports—

     Regional basketball starts today and six area teams are wanting to make it to the state tournament.

     Cotopaxi boys face Holly, the Lady Pirates are up against Kit Carson.

     Both Custer County teams made it to regionals.  The boys play Crowley County, the girls Las Animas.

     The Buena Vista boys are in Denver to face Holy Family.

     And a game you can hear on Eagle Country 104—The Salida girls play Lamar with a 2 pm tipoff.

News Headlines For Thursday, March 7, 2013

G Closed

     The City of Salida has announced that G Street between First and Second Streets will be closed because of a water line break.

     Public Works is working to fix the water line and G Street will reopen as soon as possible.

Sandoval Sues Lake Co

     Lake County officials deny that a county landfill worker was subjected to pervasive, sever harassment and that he was fired because he is Hispanic.

     The board of county commissioner’s contend that John Sandoval was fired in 2008 “following his insubordination toward his supervisor.”

     Sandoval has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against Lake County.

     The lawsuit claims the county violated federal job-discrimination laws against being subjected to a hostile work environment and unlawful firing, both based on his national origin.

71 Percent

     Snowpack in the Arkansas River Basin increased during February but remains well below average at 71 percent.

     The Natural Resources Conservation Service says reservoir storage is also down—55 percent of average.

     Statewide snowpack stands at 73 percent.

More Parking On The Way

     The Salida City Council approved, on first reading, an ordinance to lease property at 323 W. First Street and turn it into a 64-space parking lot.

     The ordinance will allow the city to lease the property for 1 year from RJPA Holdings at an annual cost of $9,000. 

     The ordinance will come back to council for a second reading and public hearing during the March 19 council meeting.

Adams Raised Tuition

     Adams State University is proposing a 16 percent tuition hike.

     The increase would add $611 a year for full-time, in-state students, bringing the tuition cost to $4,416.

     To mitigate the impact on students from one of the poorest areas in the state, Adams said it will cover the increased costs for many San Luis Valley students beginning next fall.

Salazar Coming To Salida

     Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture John Salazar will visit Southwest Conservation Corps in Salida tomorrow as part of Serve Colorado’s Honorary Member for a Day program.

     Salazar’s visit is part of AmeriCorps Week, a nation-wide event that spotlights the work done by AmeriCorps members since the national service program began 19 years ago.

In Sports—

     Congratulations to Clifford “Chance” Gulliford of Cotopaxi who won his age division at the Colorado Elks Association State Hoop Shoot.

     Chance will compete Saturday in Denver against state champions from Wyoming, Nebraska and Kansas.

     Chicago scored with 49 seconds remaining to beat the Avalanche 3-2 last night.  The win extends the Blackhawks winning streak to 11 games.

News Headlines For Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Walking On Thin Ice

     An unidentified man fell through the ice at Frantz Lake while iceboating yesterday.

     He was able to rescue himself with ice picks.

     The Salida Fire Department responded to the scene where they retrieved the boat.

     Chief Doug Bess reminds residents that it is not safe to go out on the ice.

Sentencing Postponed Again

     The sentencing hearing for an Iowa man who pleaded guilty to careless driving resulting in death has been delayed a second time.

     61-year-old William Shaffer pleaded guilty in January.  The charge stems from a two vehicle accident on Hwy 50 near Cotopaxi in December that claimed the life of 41-year-old Heather Dunn.

     The hearing was scheduled for March 20, but Dunn’s mother would not be able to attend on that date. 

     The hearing will be rescheduled for sometime in April.

Drones Protested

     In a February 27 meeting, officials from Chaffee and Lake Counties expressed interest in exploring the use of local airports for federal testing of commercial unmanned aircraft systems, or drones.

     Cynda Green of Salida told Chaffee County Commissioners during their regular meeting yesterday that she is worried about the use of Chaffee County airports for testing drones.

     Commissioner Dennis Giese told Green that the test are  commercial, not military, and part of the process will include hearing the concerns of area residents.

New NRCDC Board Members Named

     Salida City Council members appointed Jim Miller, Susan Dempsey Hughes, Ray Kitson and Walt Harder to the Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corp. board during their regular meeting last night.

     Council also voted to retain Tim Glenn, Tom Yerkey and Keith Baker on the board, and city Administrator Dara MacDonald’s role was changed to a nonvoting member of the board.

Clean Those Chimneys

     Keeping warm with a wood fire has caused another chimney fire.

     A fire yesterday at 903 I Street in Salida resulted in no injuries and minimal damage because of the quick response.

     A FedEx driver saw the smoke a little past noon and called 911.

     The Salida Fire Department reminds home owners to keep you chimneys clean and that free chimney brushes are available at the fire station.

Not Guilty

     A Park County jury has found Randall Hatlee and Ronald Swift not guilty of misdemeanor animal cruelty charges more than a year after seven horses were seized form Echo Valley Ranch near Bailey.

     Authorities said the horses showed obvious signs of neglect and some were so week they could hardly rise without assistance.

     The judge ordered all but one of the horses returned to Swift and Hatlee.

New School Meeting Tonight

     A Community Meeting to discuss the new Longfellow Elementary School project will take place tonight beginning at 6 pm at the school.

     Community members are encouraged to attend to provide input and review progress on the project.

In Sports—

     Play continues tonight in the Salida Men’s Town Team Basketball League.

     At 7 pm, Monarch faces Cellar Wine, then at 8 pm, Y&K Excavating takes on R&R Construction. 

     Y&K leads the league with a perfect 7-0 record

     Registration for Salida youth soccer will be Thursday, March 12, at Longfellow Elementary School.

     Tryouts for the U12 intermediate team will also be that day at Ben Oswald Park.

     The Nuggets won their sixth in a row last night with a 120-113 victory over the Kings.

News Headlines For Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Some travel notes this morning.

     Snow packed and icy roads will be found in the higher elevations today.

     Chain restrictions are in place for Monarch, Wolf Creek and Hoosier Passes.

Chilcott Street Closed

     The City of Salida Public Works Department will be installing a new water valve on Chilcott St. between Palmer and Hunt. 

     Chilcott will be closed today through Wednesday.

NRCDC Board Meets

     The Salida Natural Resource Center Development Corp. board will discuss bylaw changes during a public meeting at 11 am today in the Touber Building.

     The possible bylaw changes include adding two more seats to the board and changing city administrator Dara MacDonald from a voting member to a nonvoting member.

Commissioners And Councils To Meet

     The Chaffee County Commissioners will hold a regular meeting today beginning at 9 am at the courthouse in Salida.

     The commissioners will hold a special meeting with area builders to discuss the operation of the county building department this afternoon at 3:30 pm.

     The Salida and Leadville City Councils will also hold regular meetings tonight.

Back Country Users Beware

     The Colorado Avalanche Information Center says the danger of snow slides in central Colorado is considerable.

     Crews have been using explosives to reduce the danger, but those efforts have been slowed by continuing heavy snow.

In Sports—

     Six area basketball teams will try to make it to the state tournament starting with regionals this Friday.

     The Cotopaxi Boys face Holly, the Lady Pirates are up against Kit Carson.

     In Class 2A, Custer County boys will meet Crowley County, the CC girls will play Las Animas.

     The Salida Lady Spartans are in Pagosa Springs to take on Lamar and the Buena Vista Boys are in Denver to face a tough Holy Family team.

News Headlines For Monday, March 4, 2013

     Some travel notes first off, Chain restrictions are in place for Monarch Pass, also chains are required on Hoosier Pass.

Chilcott Street Closed

     The City of Salida Public Works Department will be installing anew water valve on Chilcott St. between Palmer and Hunt. 

     Chilcott will be closed today through Wednesday.

     Public Works apologizes for any inconveniences.

BV Theater To Shut

     The Orpheum Theater in Buena Vista will stop offering performances as early as June if it does not get more than $300,000 in new funding.

     The non-profit theater has been unable to raise grants to continue operating because it does not own the theater building itself, it only has a deed to the space from property owner John Cogswell.

     A press release states, barring the new funding, “there will be no more events sponsored by the Orpheum Theater.”

Architect Named

     TAB Associates has been named as the architect for the $6.7 million project to rebuild the primary wing of Aver-Parsons Elementary School in Buena Vista.

     BV Superintendent Robert Crowther said the Edwards based firm was selected from a field of 13 other candidates.

Commissioners And Councils To Meet

     The Chaffee County Commissioners will hold a regular meeting tomorrow beginning at 9 am at the courthouse in Salida.

     The Salida and Leadville City Councils will also hold regular meetings tomorrow.

Lions, Oh My!

     Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials used recent reports of mountain lion activity in populated areas to reinforce the fact that mountain lions can be present just about anywhere in Colorado—including cities and towns.

     Area wildlife manager Cory Chick said in a press release, “The chances of you even seeing a mountain lion are highly unlikely, so the chances of being attacked are even lower.  But people still need to be aware that lions live among us.”

In Sports—

     The Salida Lady Spartans beat Ellicott on Friday and lost to La Junta on Saturday to take 6th place in the district tournament.  Now it’s on to regionals.  The Lady Spartans play Lamar in Pagosa Springs this Friday.

     The Buena Vista boys lost to James Irwin on Friday and Florence on Saturday in district play giving the Demons an 8th place finish.  The Demons take on Holy Family in Denver this Friday.

News Headlines For Friday, March 1, 2013

Salida Woman Injured

     59-year-old Jeanne Croxton of Salida sustained serious injuries after her vehicle rolled on U.S. 50 between Salida and Canon City this past Tuesday.

     Croxton was transported to St. Thomas More Hospital.  Her condition is listed as “serious.”

CEO Search Continues

     Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center has narrowed its search for a new CEO to seven candidates.

     The hospital’s vice president of human resources Barb Abel said the seven will go through phone interviews to narrow the field to five.

Nestle Files Water Plan

     Nestle Waters North America has submitted a request for approval of a substitute water supply plan for its operations at Ruby Mountain Springs south of Buena Vista.

     According to the request, Nestle plans to divert 196 acre feet of water from the springs during the upcoming year for its bottled water operation in Denver.

     Nestle has a 10-year lease with Aurora for as much as 200 acre-feet of water per year from Twin Lakes Reservoir to the Arkansas River.

Easement Workshop

     The Land Trust of the Upper Arkansas is conducting a workshop on “Understanding Conservation Easements” on Friday March 8 at the Mount Princeton Resort.

     The workshop is free and open to anyone who is interested in finding out more about conservation easements.

     A conservation easement is a tool to help a landowner protect the agricultural and natural values of their property.

     To register online go to guidestonecolorado.org.

It’s First Friday

     Salida Artists are hosting the First Friday Gallery Tour today.

     Entertainment, art projects, treats and bargains are available at the 18 participating galleries.

     Galleries will be open from 5 to 8 pm tonight.

Ski Patrol Party Tonight

     The 28th annual Ski Patrol Party is tonight at the Boathouse Cantina on F Street in downtown Salida.

     Doors open at 8 pm—Tickets are $10.

     The event is a fundraiser for the Colorado Avalanche Information Center and the Ski Patrol.

Fish Friday

     The Salida Rotary Club continues their Lent Fish Fry tonight at the Salida Community Center from 4:30 to 7 pm.

     Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

     Donations will support scholarships for graduating Salida seniors.

Hi Oh Silver, Away

     Tomorrow and Sunday, the Leadville Ski Joring takes place.

     Ski Joring is a competition where horse and rider pull a skier through a course of gates, jumps and rings.

In Sports—

     A district consolation game today with Buena Vista taking on Florence at 2:30 pm.

     The Salida girls will also see action today taking on Ellicott at 1 pm.

     Both BV and Salida are playing in Pueblo and you can hear both games on Eagle Country 104.

News Headlines For Thursday, February 28, 2013

Salida Chamber Chooses New Leader

     The Salida Chamber of Commerce announced that Lori Roberts has been named the new executive director.

     Roberts has been serving the chamber as administrator since 2001.

Lake Co To Pay Big Bucks

     Lake County government may face a big payout in the wake of a trial in which nine sheriff’s deputies won a pay dispute with the county. 

     A judge has ruled that the deputies’ attorneys are entitled to be paid $234,000 for their work on the case.

What’s that In The Sky…

     Officials from Chaffee and Lake Counties are expressing interest in exploring the use of local airports for federal testing of unmanned aircraft systems, also known as drones.

     Chaffee County Commissioner Dennis Giese, who helped organize yesterdays meeting, said he has two concerns for testing the unmanned aircraft systems—the safety and privacy of residents around the testing areas.

     The FAA will announce six test states in mid-December.

Complaint Filed Against AVA

     Alleging “fraudulent and dishonest conduct” as well as “gross abuse of authority,” a group of 26 Fremont County residents filed a complaint with Fremont County District Court against Arkansas Valley Ambulance and three of its board members.

     The complaint alleges breaches of duty by the three board members, including the contracting of a consultant who was a personal friend of on of the members and incurring legal fees not approved by the AVA board.

Interns Wanted

     Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet is accepting internship applications from undergraduate students, recent graduates and graduate students for his Washington and Colorado offices.

     Interested students should apply online at bennet.senate.gov.

     The deadline to apply is March 15.

In Sports—

     The Buena Vista boys lost to Colorado Spring Christian last night 51-28.

     That sets up a district game with Florence this Friday at 2:30 pm.

     The Salida girls will also see action on Friday taking on Ellicott at 1 pm.

News Headlines For Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Bond Granted In Salida Child Porn Case

     An FBI agent testified yesterday that a Salida man, kicked out of the navy for having child pornography in 2005, said he was “happy” the FBI arrested him last week because he is addicted to child porn.

     The Mountain Mail reports that Agent Andy Stearns said Cory Brandon Sherman told agents, “he was in a destructive cycle of child pornography and wasn’t sure of what would become of him” if the FBI hadn’t intervened.

     The agent testified at a bond hearing in U.S. District Court in Denver for 26-year-old Sherman, who is charged with possessing and distributing child pornography over the internet from his Salida home.

     The judge ruled that Sherman is entitled to be released on a $100,000 bond, under strict limitations.

Where There Is Smoke

     The U.S. Forest Service will conduct a prescribed burn today in the Four Elk Creek area 5 miles northwest of Buena Vista.

     The burn is expected to last 3 to 4 days and smoke will be visible for several days.

     The Salida Fire Department conducted a prescribed burn yesterday in the Poncha Springs hot springs property.

Increases Continued

     Chaffee County Commissioners continued their consideration of a possible building permit fee increase until March 12 to give staff more time to look at the impact of the proposed increases.

     This during the commissioner’s regular meeting yesterday in Buena Vista.

     The proposed increases would offset the operational cost of the department, now being subsidized some $100,000 a year from the counties general fund.

Too High To Drive

     A bill defining how high is too high to be behind the wheel of a car has cleared the initial hurdle after it passed unanimously by the Colorado House Judiciary Committee yesterday.

     House Bill 1114 sets the legal limit for driving under the influence of marijuana at 5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood.

     Previous attempts to set such a limit have failed.

Tenderfoot Sign Up Tonight

     Join the American Cancer Society for the Tenderfoot Cancer Climb kick-off party tonight from 5:30 to 7 pm at Wallbangers on Hwy 50 in Salida.

     Sign up tonight to participate in the climb and you’ll be entered into the early bird drawing for prizes.

     You can also register online at Tenderfootcancerclimb.org.

In Sports—

     The Lady Spartans lost to Trinidad last night 51-35.

     The Spartans next district game is in Ellicot Friday for a 1 pm game.

     Buena Vista is on the road at Colorado Springs Christian tonight.

     You will hear the BV boys on Eagle Country 104 with a 6 pm tipoff.

News Headlines For Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Hospital Board Meets

     The Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center Board of Directors meeting is tonight beginning at 6 pm at the hospital.

     Among the agenda items is an update on the selection of a new CEO.  Current CEO Ken Leisher is retiring and his last day is May 31.

“Evil Twins” Features Fremont County

     Fremont County is getting its 15 minutes of fame tomorrow night when an episode of the television show “Evil Twins” airs on the Investigation Discover Channel.

     The episode will review the September 2002 incident involving Fremont County twins Joel and Michael Stovall.  The two killed Sheriff’s Deputy Jason Schwartz before leading law enforcement on a 60-mile shootout through the county.

     The episode will air at 7 pm tomorrow night on the ID network.

Free Movie Tonight

     Collegiate Peaks Forum Series is presenting an encore performance of the film “Switch-to a smarter energy future” tonight at 7 pm at the State Highway Theater on East Main in Buena Vista.

     “Switch” explores the world’s leading energy sites, from coal to solar, oil to biofuels, many restricted and never before seen on film.

     Admission is free.

Party Down For A Good Cause

     Monarch Ski Patrol will host the 28th Annual Ski Patrol Party this Friday at the Boathouse Cantina in downtown Salida with doors opening at 8 pm.

     Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

     The event is a fund raiser for the Colorado Avalanche Invormation Center.

In Sports—

     In high school basketball, the Lady Spartans and Buena Vista boys are in the playoffs.

     The Lady Spartans travel to Trinidad tonight.

     Buena Vista is on the road at Colorado Springs Christian tomorrow night.

     You will hear both games on Eagle Country 104 with a 6 pm tipoff.